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New York Underworld #4
Callous Desire
His weapon is seduction, the battlefield between his sheets, and cruel betrayal the blade he plunges deep.
My mother raised me on knights in shining armor and happily-ever-afters. She groomed me to be the perfect mafia princess. It was only natural that I’d believe in fairy tales.
Only, I didn’t fall for the prince.
I fell in love with my father’s enemy.
I’ve never deluded myself about the man Dante is. Powerful. Cold. Ruthless. Brutal. Bad doesn’t come close to describing him. But when he held me in his arms in a rented room, he showed me that he could be good. Just for me. He always chained the monster when I was pinned beneath him, at my most vulnerable and exposed, in the most dangerous place I could be.
The darkness I glimpsed in him is embedded in his soul, coloring his heart and world black. I knew exactly what I was getting into when I lost myself to a callous man. I just couldn’t have imagined in my wildest dreams that his seduction was only part of a cruel strategy and that I was nothing but the pawn he used for his revenge.
Callous Desire is the first book in the Callous Duet and ends on a cliffhanger. Tatiana and Dante's story concludes in Callous Love. The duet is part of the dark mafia romance New York Underworld series (Books 4 & 5). You don't have to read the other books in the series to follow this duet.
My mother raised me on knights in shining armor and happily-ever-afters. She groomed me to be the perfect mafia princess. It was only natural that I’d believe in fairy tales.
Only, I didn’t fall for the prince.
I fell in love with my father’s enemy.
I’ve never deluded myself about the man Dante is. Powerful. Cold. Ruthless. Brutal. Bad doesn’t come close to describing him. But when he held me in his arms in a rented room, he showed me that he could be good. Just for me. He always chained the monster when I was pinned beneath him, at my most vulnerable and exposed, in the most dangerous place I could be.
The darkness I glimpsed in him is embedded in his soul, coloring his heart and world black. I knew exactly what I was getting into when I lost myself to a callous man. I just couldn’t have imagined in my wildest dreams that his seduction was only part of a cruel strategy and that I was nothing but the pawn he used for his revenge.
Callous Desire is the first book in the Callous Duet and ends on a cliffhanger. Tatiana and Dante's story concludes in Callous Love. The duet is part of the dark mafia romance New York Underworld series (Books 4 & 5). You don't have to read the other books in the series to follow this duet.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 20, 2026
About the author
Charmaine Pauls
96 books1,876 followersCharmaine loves to write dark and edgy romance that will melt both your e-reader and your heart.
She's a mom of two teenagers, an adorable dog, and a dominant cat. Her country of birth is South Africa where many of her stories play off. Her French husband kidnapped her to the south of France where she currently lives with her family.
When she's not writing, you'll find her in the kitchen baking cakes or in the gym lifting weights (because ... all those cakes!).
She's a mom of two teenagers, an adorable dog, and a dominant cat. Her country of birth is South Africa where many of her stories play off. Her French husband kidnapped her to the south of France where she currently lives with her family.
When she's not writing, you'll find her in the kitchen baking cakes or in the gym lifting weights (because ... all those cakes!).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
April 20, 2026
Holy heck, I felt everything!!! All the angst, all the drama, and all the aching passion that Tatiana experienced in her all-consuming, raw, entanglement with Dante. Within the first few pages this book captured my full attention and yanked me straight into their messy, complicated, emotionally painful story.
I read the first books in this series, and this one stands alone. However, it did feel as if I had just stepped into book two of a series, as this author usually introduces her characters at the beginning of their relationship. Not so here. And it worked beautifully. Not understanding Dante and Tiana’s past added to the tension. I couldn’t wait to learn all the things! The fact that it was slowly revealed, along with the acceleration of their current relationship, kept me glued to the pages.
I first read and then listened to this book on audio, and let me say, the audiobook version took this to a whole new level! Christian Black brought to life all the dark goodness of this mafia hero. He exuded Dante’s fierce protectiveness, and his “mine” mentality, while Heather Firth’s performance showcased Tatiana’s strength as well as her vulnerability. This was a beautifully performed duet narration.
As the book neared its end, my heart began racing in preparation for one of Ms. Pauls’ infamous cliffhangers. And when it hit? I wasn’t even close to being ready! Thank goodness she always plans for our anguish and schedules the next release within a couple of weeks. Bring it on!
Dual POV
Safe
From the Author: The story contains violence and scenes not recommended for sensitive readers.
Triggers
Steam
I read the first books in this series, and this one stands alone. However, it did feel as if I had just stepped into book two of a series, as this author usually introduces her characters at the beginning of their relationship. Not so here. And it worked beautifully. Not understanding Dante and Tiana’s past added to the tension. I couldn’t wait to learn all the things! The fact that it was slowly revealed, along with the acceleration of their current relationship, kept me glued to the pages.
I first read and then listened to this book on audio, and let me say, the audiobook version took this to a whole new level! Christian Black brought to life all the dark goodness of this mafia hero. He exuded Dante’s fierce protectiveness, and his “mine” mentality, while Heather Firth’s performance showcased Tatiana’s strength as well as her vulnerability. This was a beautifully performed duet narration.
As the book neared its end, my heart began racing in preparation for one of Ms. Pauls’ infamous cliffhangers. And when it hit? I wasn’t even close to being ready! Thank goodness she always plans for our anguish and schedules the next release within a couple of weeks. Bring it on!
Dual POV
Safe
From the Author: The story contains violence and scenes not recommended for sensitive readers.
Triggers
Steam
May 17, 2026
It’s intensely strong story with mafia vibes.
Sincerely I love this author but this story isn’t as good as the other ones.
🤷🏻♀️
It’s worth reading.
Sincerely I love this author but this story isn’t as good as the other ones.
🤷🏻♀️
It’s worth reading.
May 8, 2026
⭐3.5 Because no OWD, no crazy ex from the past, no comparing her to other women.
The first chapters were honestly ridiculous and made little sense. But I pushed through and things did get better. It got me curious enough to want to know what would happen and if they would ever get back together, because quite frankly, that’s just impossible IMO. There was a lot of story telling instead of showing which made me lose interest in what was happening.
I find Dante a good mafia character, all things considered (and not taking the first chapters into account, that was just weird as hell). He was controlling, but I think that comes with the trope so I wasn’t bothered too much by it. At first he didn’t come off like he was sorry for what he did, he was gaslighting her and blaming her for everything that went wrong. But his character did develop throughout the story. At some point I even felt bad for him by how much Tatiana kept denying him. But then again, it would make no sense if she didn’t. What I liked about her is that she did not forgive hem throughout the whole book and never even gave him hope that she ever will. It’s just hard to believe that there is a HEA for them.
The beginning of the book had me laughing way too loud. Writer thought guns and bullets are too mediocre. Let’s go bigger. Yeah baby, let’s do rockets!
And throw in some AI.
Dante, in NY, having his people run worldwide facial recognition to find her as she was hiding in Denver.
If someone hits your face while wearing a ring, he will leave you with a cut in your face not the imprint of the ring itself. Unless he took the ring from his finger, placed it flat on your cheek, then hit you so hard it disappeared in your face. Then yeah, it would leave a scar like that.
When the fiction is really fictioning.
If you don't care about details you might enjoy this.
I just find this plot hard to believe, what her family did to his and how he retaliated and took revenge but was like I'm sorry about the collateral damage. For me, dark-romance is bad guys taking care of worse guys. But when you throw this type of collateral in it, the only thing that would make it right is to put him in the ground as well.
MMC took FMC virginity. Both celibate during separation of 5 years.
The first chapters were honestly ridiculous and made little sense. But I pushed through and things did get better. It got me curious enough to want to know what would happen and if they would ever get back together, because quite frankly, that’s just impossible IMO. There was a lot of story telling instead of showing which made me lose interest in what was happening.
I find Dante a good mafia character, all things considered (and not taking the first chapters into account, that was just weird as hell). He was controlling, but I think that comes with the trope so I wasn’t bothered too much by it. At first he didn’t come off like he was sorry for what he did, he was gaslighting her and blaming her for everything that went wrong. But his character did develop throughout the story. At some point I even felt bad for him by how much Tatiana kept denying him. But then again, it would make no sense if she didn’t. What I liked about her is that she did not forgive hem throughout the whole book and never even gave him hope that she ever will. It’s just hard to believe that there is a HEA for them.
The beginning of the book had me laughing way too loud. Writer thought guns and bullets are too mediocre. Let’s go bigger. Yeah baby, let’s do rockets!
The news report stated the rocket that hit the car in which my father and his convoy was traveling was from Eastern Europe origin, an RPG and not a Bazooka.
And throw in some AI.
“Dante found me through the hospital records. He used face recognition software to flag my fake ID. Once he knew my false name, he tracked me through my electricity bill.”
“A lot of businesses use AI-driven facial recognition systems these days. There’s no reason why criminals won’t. I should’ve thought about that before using my ID.”
Dante, in NY, having his people run worldwide facial recognition to find her as she was hiding in Denver.
That little circle looks suspiciously like the mark of a ring. At the thought alone, that someone dared to plant a fist in her face, red-hot violence bubbles up inside me.
If someone hits your face while wearing a ring, he will leave you with a cut in your face not the imprint of the ring itself. Unless he took the ring from his finger, placed it flat on your cheek, then hit you so hard it disappeared in your face. Then yeah, it would leave a scar like that.
When the fiction is really fictioning.
If you don't care about details you might enjoy this.
I just find this plot hard to believe, what her family did to his and how he retaliated and took revenge but was like I'm sorry about the collateral damage. For me, dark-romance is bad guys taking care of worse guys. But when you throw this type of collateral in it, the only thing that would make it right is to put him in the ground as well.
MMC took FMC virginity. Both celibate during separation of 5 years.
May 12, 2026
Love love love… but my full review will be under the second book of this duet!
April 20, 2026
ARC/ALC Review
There’s a saying by Maya Angelou that goes something like “…people will forget what you said but not how you made them feel…” and every single story I have ever read by Charmaine Pauls has fallen within those parameters. I may not know the plot of every story I’ve read by her by memory, but I know how I felt thru every single one. She’s an author I never miss reading and trust 100% because she very rarely disappoints and even when she does, she’s still one of the best! Her stories are never easy but are always realistic. Her characters are flawed, just like you and me, and there is an intensity to the stories she decides to gift us with that enrapture and captivate from beginning to end! Another phrase that almost always comes to me when I sit down to review any of Charmaine’s stories is "beauty is in the details" because when it comes to her stories, details matter, so pay attention! If there was a way for me to stop everyone from reading reviews about Charmaine’s stories, I would 100% be on board to do it. Go in blind! As long as you know that she writes stories about people and circumstances that live in the shadows of society (for lack of a better term) and there are never rainbows and gumdrops, that’s all you need to know before you begin. #TRUST
Now, about Callous Desire … Well, I have nothing to say. But, you should know that this story is layered deep. Every layered that is peeled back ends up being yet another layer. Like an endless abyss of “hmmmmmmmmmmmmm”. There was a time I’d be anxious over this, but I’ve had 8 years of Charmaine greatness, so anxiety is not a feeling I get it any longer. Apprehension is more likely. I trust the story and the story is telling me that the best is yet to come. Every circumstance, twist and discovery that has unfolded in this story has meant something and has value. I hope you paid attention because you’re going to need those details to get thru Callous Love. #betme
🎧I did more of a listen than a read of this story and it’s the first time I have ever done that with one of Charmaine’s stories. Listening made the story come alive for me in a different way than reading it would have, but I wouldn’t go as far as saying one is best over the other. That’s a game I play with myself ever since I began my audio era. I’ve had a lot of experience consuming Charmaine’s words with my eyes, and I can say with 100% certainty that her storytelling skills are so profoundly good that you will not just ‘read’ her stories, but you will ‘feel’ them as well. Her style and voice bring stories alive with passion and intensity so if you’re not an audio ‘reader’, don’t worry about a thing, you will still feel this story to your soul. #trust
I haven’t had a lot of experience listening to 🎤Christian Black in the past, so I wasn’t sure before I began to listen how I’d feel about his performance, but his voice had a rich, deep, velvet-like tone that was perfect for Dante’s character, and I enjoyed his performance very much. I’ve had a little more experience listening to 🎤Heather Firth in the past and I have enjoyed her performances, and her performance of Tatiana was incredible. I really felt like she captured all the different emotions and circumstances that Tatiana goes thru in this story very well.
Callous Love is already queued up for me to begin so I will see you guys in a few days with an update on this captivating story that I honestly have no idea how it will ultimately unfold.
There’s a saying by Maya Angelou that goes something like “…people will forget what you said but not how you made them feel…” and every single story I have ever read by Charmaine Pauls has fallen within those parameters. I may not know the plot of every story I’ve read by her by memory, but I know how I felt thru every single one. She’s an author I never miss reading and trust 100% because she very rarely disappoints and even when she does, she’s still one of the best! Her stories are never easy but are always realistic. Her characters are flawed, just like you and me, and there is an intensity to the stories she decides to gift us with that enrapture and captivate from beginning to end! Another phrase that almost always comes to me when I sit down to review any of Charmaine’s stories is "beauty is in the details" because when it comes to her stories, details matter, so pay attention! If there was a way for me to stop everyone from reading reviews about Charmaine’s stories, I would 100% be on board to do it. Go in blind! As long as you know that she writes stories about people and circumstances that live in the shadows of society (for lack of a better term) and there are never rainbows and gumdrops, that’s all you need to know before you begin. #TRUST
Now, about Callous Desire … Well, I have nothing to say. But, you should know that this story is layered deep. Every layered that is peeled back ends up being yet another layer. Like an endless abyss of “hmmmmmmmmmmmmm”. There was a time I’d be anxious over this, but I’ve had 8 years of Charmaine greatness, so anxiety is not a feeling I get it any longer. Apprehension is more likely. I trust the story and the story is telling me that the best is yet to come. Every circumstance, twist and discovery that has unfolded in this story has meant something and has value. I hope you paid attention because you’re going to need those details to get thru Callous Love. #betme
🎧I did more of a listen than a read of this story and it’s the first time I have ever done that with one of Charmaine’s stories. Listening made the story come alive for me in a different way than reading it would have, but I wouldn’t go as far as saying one is best over the other. That’s a game I play with myself ever since I began my audio era. I’ve had a lot of experience consuming Charmaine’s words with my eyes, and I can say with 100% certainty that her storytelling skills are so profoundly good that you will not just ‘read’ her stories, but you will ‘feel’ them as well. Her style and voice bring stories alive with passion and intensity so if you’re not an audio ‘reader’, don’t worry about a thing, you will still feel this story to your soul. #trust
I haven’t had a lot of experience listening to 🎤Christian Black in the past, so I wasn’t sure before I began to listen how I’d feel about his performance, but his voice had a rich, deep, velvet-like tone that was perfect for Dante’s character, and I enjoyed his performance very much. I’ve had a little more experience listening to 🎤Heather Firth in the past and I have enjoyed her performances, and her performance of Tatiana was incredible. I really felt like she captured all the different emotions and circumstances that Tatiana goes thru in this story very well.
Callous Love is already queued up for me to begin so I will see you guys in a few days with an update on this captivating story that I honestly have no idea how it will ultimately unfold.
May 7, 2026
3.75 There is no love story between Dante and Tatiana. Some things can't be fixed with hate sex, or an unknown child, or a false since of protection because lies and deception don't equal a happily ever after.
Charmaine Paul is one of the authors I have followed for years. Her writing, her plots and characters have brought me allot of enjoyment over the years from so many of her books and series. She is one of the best writers in this genre. That said, I am having a very hard time reviewing this novel, because I can't stand Dante's character. Morally gray men in this genre is a constant. Dante's character is a mixture of dark and sadistic with bleeps of humanity thrown in occasionally, where the author tries to make him seem like he's human. Noah, is the one person he doesn't try to destroy, at least yet. He continues his lies and manipulation of Tatiana, through Noah until the real reason he is stalking her comes out which is the necklace. His character is a constant flux with his contradictory mood swings going between good and evil in a heartbeat.
The first part of the book can be read quickly or skimmed. Tatiana, Noah and Jazz have been running from Dante for five years because he killed Tatiana parents by blowing up their car. Tatiana knows she is the next to die because her brother as well as Dante want the shares left to her as an inheritance from her parents, which can only be gained through marriage or her death.
Tatiana loved Dante as a young girl before finding out the truth about him. He took her virginity tried to get her pregnant and then killed her parents. The loss of her mother was the defining moment when she knew she HATED Dante for what he did to her mother and to her. Her father was nothing more than a crime boss who had already sold Tatiana to an arranged marriage. Same ole story in these books, sell your daughters into servitude as a brood mare to some vile gangster so daddy can gain more power and connections.
Dante kidnaps Tatiana, Noah and Jazz while he contemplates his next move to force Tatiana into marriage, get her shares and then kill her brother who has already tried to kill Tatiana once. She is left with physical and emotional scars from the men who tortured her. She is the real victim in this book and puts up a good fight until hate sex enters the picture taking a "strong woman" character and turning her into imprisoned submissive sexual toy to a man who refuses to let her go. And toy she is since Dante isn't a lover, but a man with strong sexual kinks that are rough, demanding and physical. She is constantly covering her bruises both inside and out with scarves and salves throughout book one. The only redeeming quality out of her submission, is that she refuses to "kiss him" because lovers kiss, not those having hate sex.
Dante continues his revenge because of what Tatiana's father did to his family which is not clearly defined until the end when you find out Tatiana's father stole the "necklace" from Dante, after Dante and Lee had stolen the necklace from it's owner at that time. Dante pulls a horrible wild card at the end of the book right after he forces Tatiana to marry him, and kills her brother. He reveals the real reason for his stalking and need to "OWN" Tatiana right before they are attacked in their car and Tatiana is kidnapped by a new predator who I am going to guess, it the real owner of the necklace. Dante not only nailed another nail in the coffin by book's end, he mentally buried Tatiana for good. Book one ends on a cliff hanger.
Charmaine Paul is one of the authors I have followed for years. Her writing, her plots and characters have brought me allot of enjoyment over the years from so many of her books and series. She is one of the best writers in this genre. That said, I am having a very hard time reviewing this novel, because I can't stand Dante's character. Morally gray men in this genre is a constant. Dante's character is a mixture of dark and sadistic with bleeps of humanity thrown in occasionally, where the author tries to make him seem like he's human. Noah, is the one person he doesn't try to destroy, at least yet. He continues his lies and manipulation of Tatiana, through Noah until the real reason he is stalking her comes out which is the necklace. His character is a constant flux with his contradictory mood swings going between good and evil in a heartbeat.
The first part of the book can be read quickly or skimmed. Tatiana, Noah and Jazz have been running from Dante for five years because he killed Tatiana parents by blowing up their car. Tatiana knows she is the next to die because her brother as well as Dante want the shares left to her as an inheritance from her parents, which can only be gained through marriage or her death.
Tatiana loved Dante as a young girl before finding out the truth about him. He took her virginity tried to get her pregnant and then killed her parents. The loss of her mother was the defining moment when she knew she HATED Dante for what he did to her mother and to her. Her father was nothing more than a crime boss who had already sold Tatiana to an arranged marriage. Same ole story in these books, sell your daughters into servitude as a brood mare to some vile gangster so daddy can gain more power and connections.
Dante kidnaps Tatiana, Noah and Jazz while he contemplates his next move to force Tatiana into marriage, get her shares and then kill her brother who has already tried to kill Tatiana once. She is left with physical and emotional scars from the men who tortured her. She is the real victim in this book and puts up a good fight until hate sex enters the picture taking a "strong woman" character and turning her into imprisoned submissive sexual toy to a man who refuses to let her go. And toy she is since Dante isn't a lover, but a man with strong sexual kinks that are rough, demanding and physical. She is constantly covering her bruises both inside and out with scarves and salves throughout book one. The only redeeming quality out of her submission, is that she refuses to "kiss him" because lovers kiss, not those having hate sex.
Dante continues his revenge because of what Tatiana's father did to his family which is not clearly defined until the end when you find out Tatiana's father stole the "necklace" from Dante, after Dante and Lee had stolen the necklace from it's owner at that time. Dante pulls a horrible wild card at the end of the book right after he forces Tatiana to marry him, and kills her brother. He reveals the real reason for his stalking and need to "OWN" Tatiana right before they are attacked in their car and Tatiana is kidnapped by a new predator who I am going to guess, it the real owner of the necklace. Dante not only nailed another nail in the coffin by book's end, he mentally buried Tatiana for good. Book one ends on a cliff hanger.
May 13, 2026
When this duet came out, I immediately went back and reread Saverio and Anya’s story so I could fully immerse myself in the New York underworld before starting this one. Once again, Charmaine Pauls found the perfect couple for that world—Tatiana and Dante.
I felt everything: the angst, the drama, the aching passion, and the all-consuming emotional turmoil Tatiana experiences in her raw entanglement with Dante. Within the first few pages, this book completely captured my attention and pulled me straight into their messy, complicated, emotionally devastating story.
What surprised me most was how much this felt like stepping into book two rather than book one. Usually, this author introduces her characters at the beginning of their relationship, but not here—and it worked beautifully. Not fully understanding Dante and Tatiana’s past only added to the tension. I couldn’t wait to uncover every hidden detail. The gradual reveal of their history, paired with the escalation of their present relationship, kept me glued to the pages.
Their story began five years ago, but we meet them in the present—and things are not in a good place.
This story has incredible depth. Every layer peeled back reveals another beneath it, creating an endless spiral of revelations and emotional intensity. Years ago, that kind of storytelling would have made me anxious, but after eight years of Charmaine greatness, what I feel now is trust. I trust the story, and it keeps proving that the best is always yet to come.
Every twist, discovery, and unfolding circumstance has purpose. Pay attention, because those details are absolutely going to matter in Callous Love.
Tatiana has spent years on the run, and the reason is heartbreaking. She believed Dante loved her and wanted a future with her… only to discover he was responsible for her parents’ deaths. Worse, he used her to create the perfect opportunity to carry it out. Devastated by his betrayal, she fled—and soon discovered she was pregnant.
Now Dante has found her… and the son he never knew he had.
But the woman he found is no longer the same person she once was.
Tatiana must protect not only herself, but her son Noah as well, and she refuses to let Dante hurt either of them. A marriage may be inevitable, but she’ll never willingly give him her heart again. He promises to keep them safe, but what are his promises really worth?
And lurking in the shadows are enemies still waiting to strike…
This is why Charmaine Pauls remains an auto-read author for me. Her stories are never easy, but they always feel real. Her characters are flawed, human, emotionally intense, and utterly captivating from beginning to end.
And of course, she leaves us with the kind of brutal cliffhanger she does so incredibly well…
5 stars
I felt everything: the angst, the drama, the aching passion, and the all-consuming emotional turmoil Tatiana experiences in her raw entanglement with Dante. Within the first few pages, this book completely captured my attention and pulled me straight into their messy, complicated, emotionally devastating story.
What surprised me most was how much this felt like stepping into book two rather than book one. Usually, this author introduces her characters at the beginning of their relationship, but not here—and it worked beautifully. Not fully understanding Dante and Tatiana’s past only added to the tension. I couldn’t wait to uncover every hidden detail. The gradual reveal of their history, paired with the escalation of their present relationship, kept me glued to the pages.
Their story began five years ago, but we meet them in the present—and things are not in a good place.
This story has incredible depth. Every layer peeled back reveals another beneath it, creating an endless spiral of revelations and emotional intensity. Years ago, that kind of storytelling would have made me anxious, but after eight years of Charmaine greatness, what I feel now is trust. I trust the story, and it keeps proving that the best is always yet to come.
Every twist, discovery, and unfolding circumstance has purpose. Pay attention, because those details are absolutely going to matter in Callous Love.
Tatiana has spent years on the run, and the reason is heartbreaking. She believed Dante loved her and wanted a future with her… only to discover he was responsible for her parents’ deaths. Worse, he used her to create the perfect opportunity to carry it out. Devastated by his betrayal, she fled—and soon discovered she was pregnant.
Now Dante has found her… and the son he never knew he had.
But the woman he found is no longer the same person she once was.
Tatiana must protect not only herself, but her son Noah as well, and she refuses to let Dante hurt either of them. A marriage may be inevitable, but she’ll never willingly give him her heart again. He promises to keep them safe, but what are his promises really worth?
And lurking in the shadows are enemies still waiting to strike…
This is why Charmaine Pauls remains an auto-read author for me. Her stories are never easy, but they always feel real. Her characters are flawed, human, emotionally intense, and utterly captivating from beginning to end.
And of course, she leaves us with the kind of brutal cliffhanger she does so incredibly well…
5 stars
April 23, 2026
Inside her head, she’s running as fast as she can, mistakenly believing she can outrun the monster like before
I can't breathe!
Seriously, my heart is pounding right now
Talk about twisted plot lines!
This ends on a cliffy that left my head reeling!
It wasn't the actual event that left me wrecked emotionally, not that I wasn't already an utter mess; it was who was behind it
What a snake 🐍 😳
I'll be back with my review. I need to compose myself.
“Nothing has changed, and it never will”
I’m back - not sure how composed I am - every time I think of what an arse Dante is and what a snake another certain someone is 🤬 I can barely control my anger.
“am I simply the chess piece he needed, the queen he could use for his checkmate move?”
I feel for Tatiana. She is fighting her heart and her body’s responses when it comes to Dante. I know what it's like to love completely, even if that love is destructive.
Then she has the added pressure of all the positives her current predicament offers her little one.
She is so ducked!
I am hella curious as to what actually happened on that fateful night when Tatiana walked away!
We get a brief glimpse, but it is a teaser, not the whole scene.
“I haven't lost her. I have to believe that. Because to have lost her would mean I broke something in my quest to own it”
I am pretty sure that last act of betrayal was the final knife in her heart. She offered you everything if you just let go and let her heal.
I will give you props with Noah.
Makes me wonder why you can't show the same respect to Tatiana?
This has all the edge-of-your-seat bendies and twisties, along with the crimson splashes and heart-ripping moments that you expect from Pauls.
Now GIVE ME BOOK TWO …
I have to know what triggered her leaving and how it is going to end
I can't breathe!
Seriously, my heart is pounding right now
Talk about twisted plot lines!
This ends on a cliffy that left my head reeling!
It wasn't the actual event that left me wrecked emotionally, not that I wasn't already an utter mess; it was who was behind it
What a snake 🐍 😳
I'll be back with my review. I need to compose myself.
“Nothing has changed, and it never will”
I’m back - not sure how composed I am - every time I think of what an arse Dante is and what a snake another certain someone is 🤬 I can barely control my anger.
“am I simply the chess piece he needed, the queen he could use for his checkmate move?”
I feel for Tatiana. She is fighting her heart and her body’s responses when it comes to Dante. I know what it's like to love completely, even if that love is destructive.
Then she has the added pressure of all the positives her current predicament offers her little one.
She is so ducked!
I am hella curious as to what actually happened on that fateful night when Tatiana walked away!
We get a brief glimpse, but it is a teaser, not the whole scene.
“I haven't lost her. I have to believe that. Because to have lost her would mean I broke something in my quest to own it”
I am pretty sure that last act of betrayal was the final knife in her heart. She offered you everything if you just let go and let her heal.
I will give you props with Noah.
Makes me wonder why you can't show the same respect to Tatiana?
This has all the edge-of-your-seat bendies and twisties, along with the crimson splashes and heart-ripping moments that you expect from Pauls.
Now GIVE ME BOOK TWO …
I have to know what triggered her leaving and how it is going to end
April 23, 2026
This started 5 years after Tatiana and Dante have already been together. It took me a bit to come to terms with that as the pace did go fast with them after they meet up again. It's just a different kind of story pacing. Tatiana is on the run (family is from Mafia) with her 5-year-old son Noah whom she secretly had after being with Dante who is also New York Mafia boss and her father's enemy. He has been searching for Tatiana and after he finds her, he's not letting her go. With the cliffhanger at the end, I'm for sure picking the conclusion up.
Tropes: Dark mafia romance, Secret baby, Second chance, Forbidden love, Enemies-to-lovers, Morally gray antihero, Possessive & protective alpha male, Strong heroine, Touch her & die, Soulmates, Betrayal, revenge & redemption.
The narrators Christian Black and Heather Firth were perfect for their roles and love this was Duet listen too. They did a great job.
I received this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Tropes: Dark mafia romance, Secret baby, Second chance, Forbidden love, Enemies-to-lovers, Morally gray antihero, Possessive & protective alpha male, Strong heroine, Touch her & die, Soulmates, Betrayal, revenge & redemption.
The narrators Christian Black and Heather Firth were perfect for their roles and love this was Duet listen too. They did a great job.
I received this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
April 26, 2026
✩°｡⋆⸜ 🎧🖤✮ Audiobook Review! ✩°｡⋆⸜ 🎧🖤✮
This is the fourth book in the New York Underworld series and the first installment in the Callous Duet, a gripping dark mafia secret baby romance. Dante and Tatiana’s second chance story is intense and captivating, filled with secrets, drama, passion, intrigue, and unexpected twists. Dante is a compelling morally gray hero—enigmatic, ruthless, fiercely protective, and possessive—while Tatiana is strong, intelligent, and determined. Their forbidden relationship adds tension and emotional depth, making their story especially engaging. The book ends on a cliffhanger, leaving me eager to continue with Callous Love, the next installment in the duet. Heather Firth and Christian Black deliver an excellent narration, bringing depth and intensity to the characters and the story.
This is the fourth book in the New York Underworld series and the first installment in the Callous Duet, a gripping dark mafia secret baby romance. Dante and Tatiana’s second chance story is intense and captivating, filled with secrets, drama, passion, intrigue, and unexpected twists. Dante is a compelling morally gray hero—enigmatic, ruthless, fiercely protective, and possessive—while Tatiana is strong, intelligent, and determined. Their forbidden relationship adds tension and emotional depth, making their story especially engaging. The book ends on a cliffhanger, leaving me eager to continue with Callous Love, the next installment in the duet. Heather Firth and Christian Black deliver an excellent narration, bringing depth and intensity to the characters and the story.
April 20, 2026
Genre/Trope: Mafia, Second-Chance Romance
Book Type: Book 1 in Duet
Book Length: Novel
POV: Alternating Dual
Setting: Mostly Denver
Male MC: Dante Morici is a brutal and powerful underworld leader. He has been searching for the woman he lost due to his ruthless betrayal years prior and once he finds her he isn’t letting her go again. Dante is 29 and has dirty-blond hair and amber eyes.
Female MC: Tatiana Teszner is the daughter of a mafia boss and had to go into hiding after a tragic loss. She has been working as a home organizer and maintaining a low profile ever since. Tatiana is 24 and has long blonde hair and green eyes.
Endearment: Darling
Spice Level: Medium
Frequency of Spice: Medium
Angst Level: High
Cliffhanger: Yes
My Review: I’m a total sucker for a deliciously angsty second-chance romance and this story delivered all that and more. Dante and Tatiana have a passionate history together ending in a brutal betrayal and heartbreak which caused Tatiana to disappear for 5 years. When our lovers are reunited it’s so emotional and mysterious as Dante is still keeping secrets and Tatiana is still reeling from her broken heart. I can’t wait to read the conclusion of their journey, I know it’ll be exciting and revealing and I can’t wait to see how they are able to deal with their pasts and fall in love again.
Book Type: Book 1 in Duet
Book Length: Novel
POV: Alternating Dual
Setting: Mostly Denver
Male MC: Dante Morici is a brutal and powerful underworld leader. He has been searching for the woman he lost due to his ruthless betrayal years prior and once he finds her he isn’t letting her go again. Dante is 29 and has dirty-blond hair and amber eyes.
Female MC: Tatiana Teszner is the daughter of a mafia boss and had to go into hiding after a tragic loss. She has been working as a home organizer and maintaining a low profile ever since. Tatiana is 24 and has long blonde hair and green eyes.
Endearment: Darling
Spice Level: Medium
Frequency of Spice: Medium
Angst Level: High
Cliffhanger: Yes
My Review: I’m a total sucker for a deliciously angsty second-chance romance and this story delivered all that and more. Dante and Tatiana have a passionate history together ending in a brutal betrayal and heartbreak which caused Tatiana to disappear for 5 years. When our lovers are reunited it’s so emotional and mysterious as Dante is still keeping secrets and Tatiana is still reeling from her broken heart. I can’t wait to read the conclusion of their journey, I know it’ll be exciting and revealing and I can’t wait to see how they are able to deal with their pasts and fall in love again.
April 21, 2026
Charmaine always leaves you on the precipice ... always on the edge of the last page wanting to see the stroy through! She's done it again lol
I will say.. though the overall storyline this time hasn't hypnotised me into a romantic lullaby, the characters are highly interesting! I have a feeling that it will be book 2 that brings this all together and I am here for it!
Passion on another hand was not missing! I caught myself blushing from some of the scenes.
I will say.. though the overall storyline this time hasn't hypnotised me into a romantic lullaby, the characters are highly interesting! I have a feeling that it will be book 2 that brings this all together and I am here for it!
Passion on another hand was not missing! I caught myself blushing from some of the scenes.
April 20, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ (Between 4 and 5 depending on mood)
Callous Desire came along at the perfect time for me, nearly every note of it hitting me just right. As a mood reader (one who has been particularly moody lately) this is a pretty rare occurrence so I am super pleased!
It is book one of a duet that is set in the same world as the Coerced trilogy by this author but it definitely can be read without having read that trilogy first.
It is a second chance, secret baby mafia romance with some dark elements including taken/hostage and some dub con (mild on my personal scale) told in dual POV. Just like all of this author's heroes Dante is super possessive (though there isn't really much cause for him to show it) and though the heroine, Tatiana, has reason to think otherwise, he is really very caring and patient, and it is clear he loves her very much through thoughts and actions.
There is a sweet little boy that Dante was previously unaware of but instantly accepts and though I typically like a little more angst in my secret baby tropes (on the part of the hero) I did feel for Tatiana's position and how she felt about Noah bonding with his father so quickly.
It has some steamy scenes but the ratio is much more story to steam, and I almost kind of got an old-fashioned vibe from them (and across the board, really); it felt like a slightly spiced up old Harlequin. And I loved those books, so it's no wonder I enjoyed this so much!
The book/writing has a steady/even pacing and a predictability that I found comforting, and that was something I needed at the time I read it. There were few words/phrases that are incongruous with characters born and raised/educated in New York, but not so much as to be overly distracting. There were some errors but I had an ARC copy so I assume most were corrected in the final version.
It does end on a cliffhanger but I believe the second and final book is out in just 2-3 weeks so really, that's a perfect amount of time between stories for me as I like to give myself a little time to not get burned out on one set of characters in a series. I am looking forward to their HEA!
Last note is spoilery so skip it if you like to avoid!
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Modern me wishes the heroine got some other play during their separation but it makes sense why she didn't; and it seemed neither did the hero, which is the way I tend to prefer it be if the heroine didn't (lately, anyway).....so that's a plus!
Callous Desire came along at the perfect time for me, nearly every note of it hitting me just right. As a mood reader (one who has been particularly moody lately) this is a pretty rare occurrence so I am super pleased!
It is book one of a duet that is set in the same world as the Coerced trilogy by this author but it definitely can be read without having read that trilogy first.
It is a second chance, secret baby mafia romance with some dark elements including taken/hostage and some dub con (mild on my personal scale) told in dual POV. Just like all of this author's heroes Dante is super possessive (though there isn't really much cause for him to show it) and though the heroine, Tatiana, has reason to think otherwise, he is really very caring and patient, and it is clear he loves her very much through thoughts and actions.
There is a sweet little boy that Dante was previously unaware of but instantly accepts and though I typically like a little more angst in my secret baby tropes (on the part of the hero) I did feel for Tatiana's position and how she felt about Noah bonding with his father so quickly.
It has some steamy scenes but the ratio is much more story to steam, and I almost kind of got an old-fashioned vibe from them (and across the board, really); it felt like a slightly spiced up old Harlequin. And I loved those books, so it's no wonder I enjoyed this so much!
The book/writing has a steady/even pacing and a predictability that I found comforting, and that was something I needed at the time I read it. There were few words/phrases that are incongruous with characters born and raised/educated in New York, but not so much as to be overly distracting. There were some errors but I had an ARC copy so I assume most were corrected in the final version.
It does end on a cliffhanger but I believe the second and final book is out in just 2-3 weeks so really, that's a perfect amount of time between stories for me as I like to give myself a little time to not get burned out on one set of characters in a series. I am looking forward to their HEA!
Last note is spoilery so skip it if you like to avoid!
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Modern me wishes the heroine got some other play during their separation but it makes sense why she didn't; and it seemed neither did the hero, which is the way I tend to prefer it be if the heroine didn't (lately, anyway).....so that's a plus!
April 20, 2026
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I wrote this review for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner.
Callous Desire is book four in the New York Underworld series, and although I haven’t read the first two books, it in no way made any difference when reading this book.
Tatiana Teszner and Dante Morici are the lead characters and boy do they have a tale to tell. Tatiana was a mafia princess who ran when her parents were killed. Honestly, I would have done the same and I could relate to why she did and what she had to do to keep Dante away. The tricky thing was that an unknown person was out to get her, making this story even more exciting.
Tatiana grew up very quickly and had to learn how to survive on her instincts and plans. The unknown threat in her life causes huge tension and incredible stress. I am in awe of how strong she became and how determined she is to keep Dante away from her and their son, Noah.
Dante comes cruising back into her life like a wrecking ball and Tiana is expected to go along with everything. Fair enough he wants her and makes no bones about it. However, she doesn’t want to have anything to do with him—even if her body betrays her with the same desire she’s always had.
Ms Pauls truly knows how to create interesting characters in her stories. She is great at making readers like even antiheroes, and of course, I did like Dante practically from the moment he came into the story. Even when Dante takes many of Tiana’s choices away from her, I could understand why. (Did I hit my head? No, the writing is just that good!)
This dark romance is one that captivated me from the moment I started reading and continued to enthral me until the end. Add in a touch of suspense and we have a winning story. There is the matter of the cliffhanger ending, all I can say is bring on the second half of this duet.
I wrote this review for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner.
Callous Desire is book four in the New York Underworld series, and although I haven’t read the first two books, it in no way made any difference when reading this book.
Tatiana Teszner and Dante Morici are the lead characters and boy do they have a tale to tell. Tatiana was a mafia princess who ran when her parents were killed. Honestly, I would have done the same and I could relate to why she did and what she had to do to keep Dante away. The tricky thing was that an unknown person was out to get her, making this story even more exciting.
Tatiana grew up very quickly and had to learn how to survive on her instincts and plans. The unknown threat in her life causes huge tension and incredible stress. I am in awe of how strong she became and how determined she is to keep Dante away from her and their son, Noah.
Dante comes cruising back into her life like a wrecking ball and Tiana is expected to go along with everything. Fair enough he wants her and makes no bones about it. However, she doesn’t want to have anything to do with him—even if her body betrays her with the same desire she’s always had.
Ms Pauls truly knows how to create interesting characters in her stories. She is great at making readers like even antiheroes, and of course, I did like Dante practically from the moment he came into the story. Even when Dante takes many of Tiana’s choices away from her, I could understand why. (Did I hit my head? No, the writing is just that good!)
This dark romance is one that captivated me from the moment I started reading and continued to enthral me until the end. Add in a touch of suspense and we have a winning story. There is the matter of the cliffhanger ending, all I can say is bring on the second half of this duet.
April 21, 2026
Reviewed by Robyn for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner
Callous Desire is book four in the New York Underworld series, and although I haven’t read the first two books, it in no way made any difference when reading this book.
Tatiana Teszner and Dante Morici are the lead characters and boy do they have a tale to tell. Tatiana was a mafia princess who ran when her parents were killed. Honestly, I would have done the same and I could relate to why she did and what she had to do to keep Dante away. The tricky thing was that an unknown person was out to get her, making this story even more exciting.
Tatiana grew up very quickly and had to learn how to survive on her instincts and plans. The unknown threat in her life causes huge tension and incredible stress. I am in awe of how strong she became and how determined she is to keep Dante away from her and their son, Noah.
Dante comes cruising back into her life like a wrecking ball and Tiana is expected to go along with everything. Fair enough he wants her and makes no bones about it. However, she doesn’t want to have anything to do with him—even if her body betrays her with the same desire she’s always had.
Ms Pauls truly knows how to create interesting characters in her stories. She is great at making readers like even antiheroes, and of course, I did like Dante practically from the moment he came into the story. Even when Dante takes many of Tiana’s choices away from her, I could understand why. (Did I hit my head? No, the writing is just that good!)
This dark romance is one that captivated me from the moment I started reading and continued to enthral me until the end. Add in a touch of suspense and we have a winning story. There is the matter of the cliffhanger ending, all I can say is bring on the second half of this duet.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Callous Desire is book four in the New York Underworld series, and although I haven’t read the first two books, it in no way made any difference when reading this book.
Tatiana Teszner and Dante Morici are the lead characters and boy do they have a tale to tell. Tatiana was a mafia princess who ran when her parents were killed. Honestly, I would have done the same and I could relate to why she did and what she had to do to keep Dante away. The tricky thing was that an unknown person was out to get her, making this story even more exciting.
Tatiana grew up very quickly and had to learn how to survive on her instincts and plans. The unknown threat in her life causes huge tension and incredible stress. I am in awe of how strong she became and how determined she is to keep Dante away from her and their son, Noah.
Dante comes cruising back into her life like a wrecking ball and Tiana is expected to go along with everything. Fair enough he wants her and makes no bones about it. However, she doesn’t want to have anything to do with him—even if her body betrays her with the same desire she’s always had.
Ms Pauls truly knows how to create interesting characters in her stories. She is great at making readers like even antiheroes, and of course, I did like Dante practically from the moment he came into the story. Even when Dante takes many of Tiana’s choices away from her, I could understand why. (Did I hit my head? No, the writing is just that good!)
This dark romance is one that captivated me from the moment I started reading and continued to enthral me until the end. Add in a touch of suspense and we have a winning story. There is the matter of the cliffhanger ending, all I can say is bring on the second half of this duet.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
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April 21, 2026
Callous Desire is the 4th book in CP’s series New York Underworld but it can be read as a standalone. You will need to read Callous Love after since this one will end in a cliffy. Make sure to read the warnings. This is a dark mafia romance through and through.
What an introduction to Paul’s work. I dove in head first not knowing what to expect but I was sucked in from the beginning.
Tatiana and Dante have a past. He was her first love and the father of her baby. From the jump, you are hit with a suspenseful undertone. She’s been on the run from her past. She was used as a pawn in others games. The one person she loved the most is also in her eyes not the person she thought he was. Dante was cold, callous, but also very protective and possessive of Tatiana. He played a game of chess in the past, to save her. He’ll play one now to try to win her back.
The tension, palpable. The chemistry, undeniable. Their love, raw and full of heartbreak.
She doesn’t know who to trust but she can’t trust him. But, little does she know he’s the only one that can save her. What a rollercoaster. The ending to this book…… I need Callous Love, ASAP.
Audiobook narration by Heather Firth and Christian Black. These two on audio were just so dang good. The emotions, the grit, the angst, their characterizations, spot on. Firth and Black hooked me right from the start.
What an introduction to Paul’s work. I dove in head first not knowing what to expect but I was sucked in from the beginning.
Tatiana and Dante have a past. He was her first love and the father of her baby. From the jump, you are hit with a suspenseful undertone. She’s been on the run from her past. She was used as a pawn in others games. The one person she loved the most is also in her eyes not the person she thought he was. Dante was cold, callous, but also very protective and possessive of Tatiana. He played a game of chess in the past, to save her. He’ll play one now to try to win her back.
The tension, palpable. The chemistry, undeniable. Their love, raw and full of heartbreak.
She doesn’t know who to trust but she can’t trust him. But, little does she know he’s the only one that can save her. What a rollercoaster. The ending to this book…… I need Callous Love, ASAP.
Audiobook narration by Heather Firth and Christian Black. These two on audio were just so dang good. The emotions, the grit, the angst, their characterizations, spot on. Firth and Black hooked me right from the start.
April 21, 2026
Oh Charmaine Pauls…what a fabulous storyline! We meet Dante in The New York Underworld series. He is a great character in that series and I was hoping we get his story. You do not have to read the prior books in the series to follow this story. But you will be missing out if you don’t! Dante and Tatiana have history together. Once madly in love, now enemies. Tatiana has been on the run for years. And Dante never gave up looking. Once he finds her, he is possessive and protective. These two have great chemistry together. This story has secrets and twists that leave you wanting more. It ends on a cliffhanger that will leave you reeling. Book 2 can’t get fast enough.
April 18, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars ALC
I really enjoyed this one! I have not read The New York Underworld Series yet ( you don’t have to read it first before this book) but now I want to read them all.
Callous Desire had the tension, drama and twists that kept me hooked. That ending?! I am absolutely freaking out and need the next book ASAP.
Also… Jas and Rheno (I hope I wrote the names correctly) ?! I NEED their story immediately because I’m already invested. 😂
The audiobook experience was even better thanks to Heather Firth and Christian Black. They did an amazing job bringing the characters and story to life. 🎧
If you love mafia romance, suspense and endings that leave you desperate for more add this one to your TBR! 📚🔥
Thanks to One Night Stand Studios🫶🫶
I really enjoyed this one! I have not read The New York Underworld Series yet ( you don’t have to read it first before this book) but now I want to read them all.
Callous Desire had the tension, drama and twists that kept me hooked. That ending?! I am absolutely freaking out and need the next book ASAP.
Also… Jas and Rheno (I hope I wrote the names correctly) ?! I NEED their story immediately because I’m already invested. 😂
The audiobook experience was even better thanks to Heather Firth and Christian Black. They did an amazing job bringing the characters and story to life. 🎧
If you love mafia romance, suspense and endings that leave you desperate for more add this one to your TBR! 📚🔥
Thanks to One Night Stand Studios🫶🫶
April 20, 2026
Callous Desire is my first Charmaine Pauls book, and lemme tell you it did not disappoint. Pauls writing style is spectacular, and I'm definitely a fan.
I was hooked from the beginning.
The drama and tension flowed from the pages!
Tatiana is an absolute force, on the run for 5 years with a child, until her past catches up with her, Dante her past, dark and dangerous. This all makes for a fantastic story, with insane twists and that cliffy of an ending?! I need the next one asap!
Vague for a reason, a lot happens in this and I dont want to spoil ot for anyone.
I was hooked from the beginning.
The drama and tension flowed from the pages!
Tatiana is an absolute force, on the run for 5 years with a child, until her past catches up with her, Dante her past, dark and dangerous. This all makes for a fantastic story, with insane twists and that cliffy of an ending?! I need the next one asap!
Vague for a reason, a lot happens in this and I dont want to spoil ot for anyone.
April 20, 2026
I have always been a fan of this author, and Callous Desire is another winner for me. I listened to audio ARC, and really enjoyed the story, especially the parts that included their son. This is book 4 of the New York Underworld series, and book 1 in a new duet, however you don't need to have read the prior trilogy at all, to love this book. If I had any complains, it would only be with the male narrator. His voice was amazing as far as tone, but there was something about the cadence that I didn't jive with. It didn't ruin the listening for me though, and I especially appreciate that it was done in duet narration. Overall, a great read, and I can't wait to jump into the next book to see what happens.
April 20, 2026
Love how this author writes her hero’s or more accurately anti-hero’s and her heroines. all possessive,obsessed and very protective too and the heroines not given in they sure make them work for it Lol! Dante and Tatiana story has a rough start and with that ending. I can’t imagine that their journey would get any easier. It will definitely not be an easy ride to find their happy ever after. I hope that at the end of this rough road they will get that happy ending.
April 21, 2026
5 Stars for Callous Desire by Charmaine Pauls.
What a page turner and definitely one of the best mafia dark romances I’ve read so far this year.
What you can expect
Mafia princess Tatiana and cold powerful Dante
Second chances
Great chemistry
A page turner
Secrets & Betrayal
This author has such a way of making the characters seem so real ! Excellent story & can’t wait to see what happens next !
What a page turner and definitely one of the best mafia dark romances I’ve read so far this year.
What you can expect
Mafia princess Tatiana and cold powerful Dante
Second chances
Great chemistry
A page turner
Secrets & Betrayal
This author has such a way of making the characters seem so real ! Excellent story & can’t wait to see what happens next !
April 24, 2026
Callous Desire follows Tatiana, a naive mafia princess who dreams of fairytale love—but falls for her father’s enemy, Dante Morici.
Dante is ruthless, calculated, and determined to get his version of justice. He may spoil her materially, but he’s cold when it comes to her heart.
Lovers turned enemies, their story is dark, intense, and filled with undeniable chemistry that still burns beneath the surface.
Add in the mystery of the necklace and a breath-stealing cliffhanger… I’m already waiting for Callous Love.
Dante is ruthless, calculated, and determined to get his version of justice. He may spoil her materially, but he’s cold when it comes to her heart.
Lovers turned enemies, their story is dark, intense, and filled with undeniable chemistry that still burns beneath the surface.
Add in the mystery of the necklace and a breath-stealing cliffhanger… I’m already waiting for Callous Love.
April 20, 2026
This book was totally captivating, and it had me completely consumed. This is the first of two books that tell Tatiana and Dante's story. The tenson and darkness here are truly exquisite as this tale of betrayal, secrets, emotions, feelings, drama and intensity unwinds as it walks a razor-sharp line of hate and love and anger and passion. This story and these characters really put my emotions and heart through the wringer, and I cannot wait to see what happens after that cliffy. Need book two ASAP!
April 21, 2026
Callous Desire is the story of Dante and Tatiana and I would say this book covers all the bases in regards to ‘mafia men’. Our H is possessive, obsessive, mostly unhinged in the best possible way, lots of red flags and over the top with the h. Basically I love it! 😂
Tatiana fights tooth & nail, it’s a real push n pull and there’s a little surprise for Dante when he finally finds Tatiana again.
Really enjoyed and look forward to reading what this duet has in store for us.
Tatiana fights tooth & nail, it’s a real push n pull and there’s a little surprise for Dante when he finally finds Tatiana again.
Really enjoyed and look forward to reading what this duet has in store for us.
April 23, 2026
This book was amazing. It comes from the same world as the coerced trilogy. It is book one of a duet and Charmaine is so brilliant at immersing you right into her world. This is a second chance baby mafia dark romance and I’m all here for it. Dante is possessive and Tatiana knows that Dante has his own way of showing things but she knows he truly cares. This book had me hooked from page one and i seriously can’t wait for the second book.
April 20, 2026
I've been excited for this couple Dante & Tatiana had the chemistry drama & tension, Dante has been looking for Tatiana for the last 5 years after he finds her he learns he has a son Noah & immediately makes plans to return New York with them, And that is where the craziness, twists & turns happen does end on a cliffhanger loved the audiobook can't wait till Callous Love.
April 23, 2026
Intense, non-stop whirlwind of a story.
The read felt uncomfortable at times and parts were difficult to read. But despite that I was still captivated and rooting for the FMC and MMC. The trauma and stress responses felt so real and i could feep all the feelings resonating in my own chest. An intense read, and I need to know what happens next!
The read felt uncomfortable at times and parts were difficult to read. But despite that I was still captivated and rooting for the FMC and MMC. The trauma and stress responses felt so real and i could feep all the feelings resonating in my own chest. An intense read, and I need to know what happens next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2026
Brilliant
This was a really good read, I enjoyed it immensely. The characters are so well written I felt I really knew and even liked them. The story is exciting, brutal and romantic in its own way. I can’t wait to read the sequel coming soon. Well done Charmaine.
This was a really good read, I enjoyed it immensely. The characters are so well written I felt I really knew and even liked them. The story is exciting, brutal and romantic in its own way. I can’t wait to read the sequel coming soon. Well done Charmaine.
April 20, 2026
Secrets and desires, this book was everything and more
Gripping and epic!
Another great read for 2026
Gripping and epic!
Another great read for 2026
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