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Elite #1
Phantom
In a deadly game of cat and mouse, love will be the ultimate betrayal.
My father’s murder gave me a deadly purpose.
If only that purpose didn’t put me in close proximity with a mob boss.
Kade Romano is ruthless.
He’s the last man I should trust.
Working for him is meant to be a means to an end. Take the job. Gain access to his security company. Find out the truth about my father. Then leave this all behind.
But then Kade is gentle with me.
He’s kind in a way I don’t expect.
As passion builds, I question what comes next.
Uncovering the killer.
Or falling for the one man I shouldn’t.
Secret Identity
Italian Mafia
Boss x Employee
Enemies to lovers
Forbidden Love
Murder Mystery
High Steam
Betrayal
Morally Gray MMC
My father’s murder gave me a deadly purpose.
If only that purpose didn’t put me in close proximity with a mob boss.
Kade Romano is ruthless.
He’s the last man I should trust.
Working for him is meant to be a means to an end. Take the job. Gain access to his security company. Find out the truth about my father. Then leave this all behind.
But then Kade is gentle with me.
He’s kind in a way I don’t expect.
As passion builds, I question what comes next.
Uncovering the killer.
Or falling for the one man I shouldn’t.
Secret Identity
Italian Mafia
Boss x Employee
Enemies to lovers
Forbidden Love
Murder Mystery
High Steam
Betrayal
Morally Gray MMC
460 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2026
18 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 5, 2026
I'm not ashamed to admit that this book had me hooked from page one - I mean, who needs sleep when you're devouring a juicy mafia romance? I tore through it in 24 hours, and let me tell you, it's got all the ingredients of a crackling good series: tension, forbidden love, enemies-to-lovers, love triangles, and more. I'm calling it now - this Elite Book series is going to be epic. The whole story had me on the edge of my seat, and I loved every twist and turn. I was stoked to get my hands on an ARC from the author, and now I'm dying for the next installment. Can you please hurry up and publish the next book already?
February 7, 2026
My first book from this author, I really enjoyed the story that I got engrossed from the beginning, I enjoyed the characters, It has a little drama, mafia, and I couldn't put it down. Both Kade and Evelyn are amazing characters, I'm looking forward to many more in the series,
July 2, 2024
Phantom is a riveting romantic suspense and intrigue thriller book with the trope of enemies to lovers and a sizzling chemistry that will make you feel the passion and romance from the protagonists. This is the first book in the Elite series.
The story follows Evelyn who will stop at nothing to avenge her father's cold blooded murder, get recruited for a special undercover ops. A perfectly planned position that will give her power and resources she needs to extract her revenge. Ricci Enterprises has a hell lot to pay and her team of members have all been affected by this enterprise's actions and are willing to go through murky treacherous waters. She will finally deliver much needed justice.
However, a powerful sudden turn of events begins to take control when she falls for her boss who is in elite security for the murderer himself.
As passionate encounters and romance begin to burn brightly, it ignites physical attraction and pleasures in both their hearts. Will the truth take away everything from them? Secrets have never bid well when a relationship is forged. The fate dances closely and on the edge of hearts desires and motives.
This was such an incredibly fast paced thrilling reading experience that I got to experience it in a long time. We don't actually see these sort of stories anymore where the plot is unique and the narration utterly compels you to turn the pages to see the next course of events and actions. The characters whether it's the main or accompanied cast is surely one of the strongest driving directions of the story's anticipation and excitement. The themes of passion, revenge, deceit and romance are well fleshed out and the author's writing style is beyond impressive. I cannot wait to read other installments in this series. Utterly excited.
I'd recommend this book to a mafia romance/ romantic suspense enthusiast who knows the elements of surprises and intricate twists will be weaved into every corner of the story.
The story follows Evelyn who will stop at nothing to avenge her father's cold blooded murder, get recruited for a special undercover ops. A perfectly planned position that will give her power and resources she needs to extract her revenge. Ricci Enterprises has a hell lot to pay and her team of members have all been affected by this enterprise's actions and are willing to go through murky treacherous waters. She will finally deliver much needed justice.
However, a powerful sudden turn of events begins to take control when she falls for her boss who is in elite security for the murderer himself.
As passionate encounters and romance begin to burn brightly, it ignites physical attraction and pleasures in both their hearts. Will the truth take away everything from them? Secrets have never bid well when a relationship is forged. The fate dances closely and on the edge of hearts desires and motives.
This was such an incredibly fast paced thrilling reading experience that I got to experience it in a long time. We don't actually see these sort of stories anymore where the plot is unique and the narration utterly compels you to turn the pages to see the next course of events and actions. The characters whether it's the main or accompanied cast is surely one of the strongest driving directions of the story's anticipation and excitement. The themes of passion, revenge, deceit and romance are well fleshed out and the author's writing style is beyond impressive. I cannot wait to read other installments in this series. Utterly excited.
I'd recommend this book to a mafia romance/ romantic suspense enthusiast who knows the elements of surprises and intricate twists will be weaved into every corner of the story.
January 30, 2026
This book had me obsessed from the very beginning to the end I couldn’t put down it’s got so many different elements that you’re forever forgotten time! Between the tension, crime, forbidden attention, and so much more will that came from I know this going to be an incredible series! This is the first book I read by this author and look forward to reading much more she did amazing work with lots of details different points of view from these stubborn characters. The whole story kept me intrigued and felt the different emotions going on with the situations I couldn’t help but end up crying from some of things that went down. This book of danger mysteries and a page turned for sure with lots of ups and downs. I was on the edge of sit and anxiously waiting to see how everything will turn out I definitely binged read this book! I’m so happy with everything and can’t wait to continue this unpredictable adventure!
February 2, 2026
Phantom will have you on the edge of your seat from the start. Seeking revenge for her family Evelyn goes undercover to bring justice to the pain and suffering that's been caused by the man who's slithered his way into her life, the butcher her step father. To bring him down she needs to go undercover and use her skills to do so. But she doesn't anticipate falling for the job. Evelyn and Kade are the perfect match and his three rules will have you wanting to be his good girl! Now this book has got it all , mafia, suspense and a damn twist and tear jerking moment. Everything you need to keep turning those pages
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2026
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I could not put this book down. Kade and Evelyn are the perfect duo; even when they start out on rocky grounds. They both have secrets but they pull through them. This book made my laugh, cry and angry. If you are looking for an emotional roller coaster: this book will fo it for you! If Dark mafia romance is your thing: give this book a read. You will not be disappointed! I loved it and would give it 5 stars every day!! It has everything you want and need in a dark mafia Romance!
February 4, 2026
Phantom had me obsessed from page 1! I loved all the elements the reader gets to enjoy! You get mafia, crime, computer hacking and some comedy elements in this book. I just know this series is going to be amazing! I was fortunate to receive this book as an ARC from the author. It is safe to safe I will be buying this book as well as the next one! The author truly did not disappoint! I loved the sexual tension in the beginning between the two main characters. You get the forbidden as well as enemies to lovers. The plot is great as well. This book had me laughing, swooning, and crying. I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
February 9, 2026
Oooh, this is my kind of book! Plenty of everything!
A new author to me, I am so glad I was given the opportunity to read Elle Menard's work. It is captivating, exciting and in between the danger, steamy. I absolutely loved the cat and mouse banter with snarky humour interspersed.
This book has all the feels. It is explosive, suspenseful and the danger is off the charts. I laughed, cried and rooted so hard for a miraculous happy ending.
Unbelievably I finished this book in one day, several hours invested, it was that good. I really look forward to the next book.
A new author to me, I am so glad I was given the opportunity to read Elle Menard's work. It is captivating, exciting and in between the danger, steamy. I absolutely loved the cat and mouse banter with snarky humour interspersed.
This book has all the feels. It is explosive, suspenseful and the danger is off the charts. I laughed, cried and rooted so hard for a miraculous happy ending.
Unbelievably I finished this book in one day, several hours invested, it was that good. I really look forward to the next book.
March 3, 2026
Two infamous hackers... One wants to take down her step-daddy who is a very bad man and the other works for him because he inherited his dad's business.... Where could this go wrong? right? who cares they end up in bed. The spice in this book is very yummy. The one part I didn't like was at the end I felt like it was a little rushed and I wished he groveled (but that's my kink lol). Through this book the tension and storyline were amazing. The emotions it evoked in me, I literally cried and put the book down twice, once you read it you'll know.
January 29, 2026
Elle MenardIm giving this book 4.25 stars. I really loved reading this and accidently stayed up until 2am reading because I couldn't put it down.
The FMC is a bad ass and definitely not a damsel in distress and the MMC is a perfect match for her wit, banter and badassery.
Possible spoilers.
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The FMC father was murdered by the villain but not much is really discussed beyond that. How was he murdered? Was he a high powered man and thats why he was murdered? Its just kind of up in the air. Im hoping it is answered in future books. The FMC sister pisses me off to no end and I Want to reach thru the book and smack her.
The FMC has a brother and sister but she rarely mentions them until later in the book when their mother is killed. I actually forgot they existed for a time.
That being said I know there is another book coking out and Im sure some things will be answered. All in all this books leaves me excited to read more about the team and what shenanigans they get into.
The FMC is a bad ass and definitely not a damsel in distress and the MMC is a perfect match for her wit, banter and badassery.
Possible spoilers.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
The FMC father was murdered by the villain but not much is really discussed beyond that. How was he murdered? Was he a high powered man and thats why he was murdered? Its just kind of up in the air. Im hoping it is answered in future books. The FMC sister pisses me off to no end and I Want to reach thru the book and smack her.
The FMC has a brother and sister but she rarely mentions them until later in the book when their mother is killed. I actually forgot they existed for a time.
That being said I know there is another book coking out and Im sure some things will be answered. All in all this books leaves me excited to read more about the team and what shenanigans they get into.
January 30, 2026
Right from the start I was hooked - completely binge worthy. Dark Mafia, tension, forbidden chemistry and emotional highs and lows kept me from wanting to put the book down. My only hiccup was the dual names for each character could be a bit distracting, and confusing at first, as it would go back and forth within the same page but other than that it didn't stop me from loving the story which makes up for it. I can't wait to see where this series will take us!
February 2, 2026
Light and Quick Dark Romance with HEA
I’ve read a lot of dark romances and this was a fun easy, quick read that is definitely on the lighter side. Great introduction to Dark Romance!
Kade is seriously adorable and domineering, but also very caring and loving towards Evelyn. The plot is interesting and keeps you engaged from the beginning. All of the characters are fun and add to the story.
Looking forward to the next book in the series!
I’ve read a lot of dark romances and this was a fun easy, quick read that is definitely on the lighter side. Great introduction to Dark Romance!
Kade is seriously adorable and domineering, but also very caring and loving towards Evelyn. The plot is interesting and keeps you engaged from the beginning. All of the characters are fun and add to the story.
Looking forward to the next book in the series!
February 2, 2026
This book completely hooked me from start to finish. The mix of tension, crime, and forbidden attraction made it impossible to put down. The story is full of emotion, strong characters, and unexpected moments that kept me on edge the entire time. I loved the different points of view and the depth of the characters. It’s an intense, emotional, and addictive read, and I can’t wait to continue the series.
February 3, 2026
Strap in — Phantom is a fast, addictive read. Evelyn is pulled into an intense, high-stakes world just before her 18th birthday and quickly becomes part of an elite team that brings major found-family vibes. The action is nonstop, the team dynamic is fantastic, and the tension keeps you turning pages.
Things get extra interesting when an undercover mission collides with unexpected attraction, bringing plenty of chemistry and slow-burn heat. Elle Menard does a great job balancing action and romance, making Phantom a strong, binge-worthy start to the Elite Series. First time reading her books and look forward to seeing where the series goes.
Things get extra interesting when an undercover mission collides with unexpected attraction, bringing plenty of chemistry and slow-burn heat. Elle Menard does a great job balancing action and romance, making Phantom a strong, binge-worthy start to the Elite Series. First time reading her books and look forward to seeing where the series goes.
February 4, 2026
A strong female character meets an equally strong male character/nemesis, but both with a common goal. I have not even finished it yet but love it! The writing is great, not overly flowery, just plain tells the tale. The story line is just enough different from the regular "I want revenge" novel to hold your interest...
February 21, 2026
I was lucky to receive an arc for this story
I have never read a story that has captured my attention from the first page. The story had the right mix of tension and romance. With a love triangle, with enemies to lovers mixed in the story was so steamy it just keeps you on your toes till the very end.
I have never read a story that has captured my attention from the first page. The story had the right mix of tension and romance. With a love triangle, with enemies to lovers mixed in the story was so steamy it just keeps you on your toes till the very end.
May 29, 2025
I don’t know if I could have handled hearing bespoke suit, whiskey color eyes, or the devil himself again without losing my mind. It was a fine story with likeable characters and hopefully we get more insight in what comes next.
April 7, 2025
Watered down version of Haunting Adeline.
January 30, 2026
This book has everything I like, mafia theme, action, a really good plot and some spice.
There were some emotional scenes both good and bad but it was all so well written a fantastic read.
There were some emotional scenes both good and bad but it was all so well written a fantastic read.
January 30, 2026
finished this book in a couple hours. once i started reading it hooked me in and I couldn't stop until I finished reading.
the writing and character development was executed beautifully.
the writing and character development was executed beautifully.
February 1, 2026
Thoroughly enjoyed this book and would strongly recommend it if you are a fan of this book genre. Will definitely be reading more of this authors work.
February 2, 2026
Deception! Nothing is what it seems in this book and there are a bunch of twists and turns with various aspects. You really get to know the characters which makes it exciting for the series
January 30, 2026
Elle Menard is a new author to me but I am so glad I read this story. It is a powerful romantic suspense that kept me enthralled all the way through. All the characters are fascinating and the dynamic between Evelyn and Kaden is amazing. The storyline is current, interesting and unfortunately, happens all too often. There is a really sad part and I confess I was in tears several times but the ending is sweet and charming. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I highly recommend it.
January 30, 2026
3.5/5 stars
This one started off strong and had me hooked pretty quickly. The vibe and setup were really working for me at the beginning, and I was excited to see where it was going.
By the end though, it felt like the plot lost its way, with some key plot points not fully explained and questions left hanging.
Overall it was a decent read but I wish the ending had been fully developed and not felt rushed to get to the HEA
This one started off strong and had me hooked pretty quickly. The vibe and setup were really working for me at the beginning, and I was excited to see where it was going.
By the end though, it felt like the plot lost its way, with some key plot points not fully explained and questions left hanging.
Overall it was a decent read but I wish the ending had been fully developed and not felt rushed to get to the HEA
January 27, 2026
Phantom is a good suspenseful romance read. You never quite know how it’s going to play out as you read and it gives just enough background information on the characters to get invested but not distracted.
July 10, 2024
Book Review: "Phantom (The Elite Series)" by Elle Menard 🥰
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Prepare yourself for an enthralling ride with "Phantom," the first book in Elle Menard’s Elite Series! This story introduces us to Evelyn, a determined young woman whose life takes a dramatic turn after her father's brutal murder. With justice nowhere in sight, Evelyn decides to take matters into her own hands. Just before her 18th birthday, she’s recruited into a special ops team, providing her with the resources and team she needs to hunt down the Butcher responsible for her father's death. 💪🎯
👉Evelyn’s team is a powerhouse, featuring members like Badger, Arrow, Buddha, Zombie, and Chief. Each of them has a personal vendetta against Ricci Enterprises, the organization behind so much pain. Their shared mission to take down this evil empire fuels their unwavering determination and unity. But the mission takes an unexpected twist when Evelyn’s undercover operation gets complicated by a budding romance with a potent mob boss who owns a prestigious security business in NYC. 😬❤️
👉Elle Menard’s storytelling is a masterful blend of high-stakes action and sizzling romance. The narrative is packed with intense twists, palpable tension, and heart-pounding moments that keep you hooked from start to finish. Evelyn’s journey is not only about seeking revenge but also about grappling with the complexities of love and trust in the midst of chaos.
👉The chemistry between the characters is off the charts, making every interaction thrilling and emotional. Menard skillfully develops themes of passion, deceit, and justice, creating a rich and immersive reading experience. 🔥🖤
👉"Phantom" is an electrifying start to The Elite Series, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. The characters are deeply compelling, and the plot is refreshingly unique, offering a fast-paced, thrilling experience. Evelyn's story of vengeance and unexpected romance is one you won't want to miss.
👉I highly recommend "Phantom" to anyone who loves action-packed revenge stories with a steamy romantic twist.
Happy reading 😁😁
#bookreview
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Prepare yourself for an enthralling ride with "Phantom," the first book in Elle Menard’s Elite Series! This story introduces us to Evelyn, a determined young woman whose life takes a dramatic turn after her father's brutal murder. With justice nowhere in sight, Evelyn decides to take matters into her own hands. Just before her 18th birthday, she’s recruited into a special ops team, providing her with the resources and team she needs to hunt down the Butcher responsible for her father's death. 💪🎯
👉Evelyn’s team is a powerhouse, featuring members like Badger, Arrow, Buddha, Zombie, and Chief. Each of them has a personal vendetta against Ricci Enterprises, the organization behind so much pain. Their shared mission to take down this evil empire fuels their unwavering determination and unity. But the mission takes an unexpected twist when Evelyn’s undercover operation gets complicated by a budding romance with a potent mob boss who owns a prestigious security business in NYC. 😬❤️
👉Elle Menard’s storytelling is a masterful blend of high-stakes action and sizzling romance. The narrative is packed with intense twists, palpable tension, and heart-pounding moments that keep you hooked from start to finish. Evelyn’s journey is not only about seeking revenge but also about grappling with the complexities of love and trust in the midst of chaos.
👉The chemistry between the characters is off the charts, making every interaction thrilling and emotional. Menard skillfully develops themes of passion, deceit, and justice, creating a rich and immersive reading experience. 🔥🖤
👉"Phantom" is an electrifying start to The Elite Series, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. The characters are deeply compelling, and the plot is refreshingly unique, offering a fast-paced, thrilling experience. Evelyn's story of vengeance and unexpected romance is one you won't want to miss.
👉I highly recommend "Phantom" to anyone who loves action-packed revenge stories with a steamy romantic twist.
Happy reading 😁😁
#bookreview
July 9, 2024
Strap in for a wild ride with “Phantom,” the first book in Elle Menard’s Elite Series! Meet Evelyn, a fierce young woman on a mission to avenge her father’s brutal murder. Just before her 18th birthday, she’s recruited into a special ops team, giving her the tools and team she needs to hunt down the Butcher responsible. 💪🎯
Evelyn’s squad—Badger, Arrow, Buddha, Zombie, and Chief—each have their own vendettas against Ricci Enterprises. Together, they’re an unstoppable force. But things get complicated when Evelyn’s undercover mission collides with unexpected romance. Falling for a potent mob boss who runs a top-tier security business in NYC? Talk about messy! 😬❤️
Elle’s storytelling is electric, blending high-stakes action with sizzling romance. Evelyn’s journey is packed with twists, tension, and heart-pounding moments that keep you hooked from start to finish. The chemistry between characters is palpable, making for a truly addictive read. 🔥🖤
“Phantom” is a thrilling start to The Elite Series, perfect for fans of action-packed revenge tales and steamy romance. Dive into this intense world and get ready to root for Evelyn as she battles for justice and love. 📖✨
Evelyn’s squad—Badger, Arrow, Buddha, Zombie, and Chief—each have their own vendettas against Ricci Enterprises. Together, they’re an unstoppable force. But things get complicated when Evelyn’s undercover mission collides with unexpected romance. Falling for a potent mob boss who runs a top-tier security business in NYC? Talk about messy! 😬❤️
Elle’s storytelling is electric, blending high-stakes action with sizzling romance. Evelyn’s journey is packed with twists, tension, and heart-pounding moments that keep you hooked from start to finish. The chemistry between characters is palpable, making for a truly addictive read. 🔥🖤
“Phantom” is a thrilling start to The Elite Series, perfect for fans of action-packed revenge tales and steamy romance. Dive into this intense world and get ready to root for Evelyn as she battles for justice and love. 📖✨
February 26, 2025
I really enjoyed listening to this book. Both narrators were good and honestly brought the book alive.
Felt some lines were rushed, wrapping up the "side piece" friend without closure was cruel to me. Loved the banter and had loads of giggle throughout, not to mention Alfredo 😍 The book and storyline were well written. However, I knew straight away what the outcome of the book 😅 I was not surprised. Yes, I have also shed a few tears by the end because all in all, it was cute. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series and really hoping it'll have an impossible happy end 😊
Felt some lines were rushed, wrapping up the "side piece" friend without closure was cruel to me. Loved the banter and had loads of giggle throughout, not to mention Alfredo 😍 The book and storyline were well written. However, I knew straight away what the outcome of the book 😅 I was not surprised. Yes, I have also shed a few tears by the end because all in all, it was cute. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series and really hoping it'll have an impossible happy end 😊
February 15, 2026
Follow Evelyn Myers, an infamous computer hacker, and her team as they set out to take down her stepfather. Elle Menard's writing provides enough detail to paint a picture but not too much that it gets lost in the story. This dark romance will keep you on your toes with some twists and turns, a sexy Italian Don of the Mafia, and Evelyn in the middle of it all.
April 14, 2024
LOVE!!!!! NEED MORE BOOKS ASAP!!
I enjoyed all the characters! I couldn't put the book down. I enjoyed the storyline and the steamy parts! Elle Menard will be one of my new favorite Arthur's. Can't wait to see what happens next!!
I enjoyed all the characters! I couldn't put the book down. I enjoyed the storyline and the steamy parts! Elle Menard will be one of my new favorite Arthur's. Can't wait to see what happens next!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews