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Promises in the Dark
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Expected 20 Oct 26Win a free print copy of this book!
8 days and 17:20:25
3 copies available
U.S. and Canada only
Promises.
They’re easy to make.
Even easier to break.
Which is why it’s nearly impossible for me to believe
a man I don’t know when he promises me the one thing
I’ve always desired:
Freedom.
But when I risk everything by faking my death
and showing up at his home,
he remains a man of his word,
vowing to help me escape the life I was forced into.
As I wait for my chance at a new beginning,
I offer to be the nanny for his little girl,
never expecting her to steal half my heart,
while her father,
a dangerous man who somehow becomes my safe haven,
claims the other.
And for the first time in my life,
I’m forced to question what I want more:
The freedom I’ve always dreamed of…
Or the family I’ve never had.
There’s only one problem.
Even in death, my husband will find me.
And he’ll stop at nothing to destroy me.
But to get to me, he’ll have to go through the one man
willing to burn the world down to keep me safe.
The only man my heart has ever beat for:
Alessandro Alarie.
They’re easy to make.
Even easier to break.
Which is why it’s nearly impossible for me to believe
a man I don’t know when he promises me the one thing
I’ve always desired:
Freedom.
But when I risk everything by faking my death
and showing up at his home,
he remains a man of his word,
vowing to help me escape the life I was forced into.
As I wait for my chance at a new beginning,
I offer to be the nanny for his little girl,
never expecting her to steal half my heart,
while her father,
a dangerous man who somehow becomes my safe haven,
claims the other.
And for the first time in my life,
I’m forced to question what I want more:
The freedom I’ve always dreamed of…
Or the family I’ve never had.
There’s only one problem.
Even in death, my husband will find me.
And he’ll stop at nothing to destroy me.
But to get to me, he’ll have to go through the one man
willing to burn the world down to keep me safe.
The only man my heart has ever beat for:
Alessandro Alarie.
- GenresDark Romance
389 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 20, 2026
About the author
Ashley Elizabeth
7 books296 followersAshley Elizabeth is an author of wholehearted dark romance. Her books will always tell a love story with just the right amount of spice and, most importantly, end with a happily ever after. When she’s not reading a romance novel or overthinking everything, you can find her watching Jurassic Park for the thousandth time with her fur baby, Bailey.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Honestly, the story was really sweet; the plot was a little repetitive, but the truth is, I loved it. I love it when they mix the mafia with the kind of romance you usually read about in contemporary small-town romance novels. I loved the romance, and the steamy scenes were just right.
Thank you for the ARC!!!
Thank you for the ARC!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Promises in the Dark
Ashley Elizabeth
Alex and Charlotte
🖤Dark Romance
🩷Billionaire Romance
🖤Mafia Romance
🩷Touch-Her-and-Die
🖤Single Dad Romance
Book four in the series, Promises in the Dark, is raw, gritty, and captivating.
Alex Alarie is one of the most frightening people in the mafia, but he protects his loved ones fiercely.
Charlotte has had a rough life but is still the most resilient, kindest woman ever.
My heart hurt at times reading this but was healed by the end of the book.
If you want a book that will make you feel all of the feels, Promises in the Dark is what you need!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶🌶🌶
Ashley Elizabeth
Alex and Charlotte
🖤Dark Romance
🩷Billionaire Romance
🖤Mafia Romance
🩷Touch-Her-and-Die
🖤Single Dad Romance
Book four in the series, Promises in the Dark, is raw, gritty, and captivating.
Alex Alarie is one of the most frightening people in the mafia, but he protects his loved ones fiercely.
Charlotte has had a rough life but is still the most resilient, kindest woman ever.
My heart hurt at times reading this but was healed by the end of the book.
If you want a book that will make you feel all of the feels, Promises in the Dark is what you need!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶🌶🌶
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I absolutely couldn't stop reading this book until I reached the end!
I've begun this series and I'm truly captivated by the family's dynamic. Their deep care for one another and their willingness to do anything to protect each other is heartwarming.
OMG, the daughter is just adorable and so sweet! She's definitely my favorite character! I can't believe how she surprises Charlotte! Alex will always ensure that his girls are safe!
I eagerly await the final book in the series!
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
I've begun this series and I'm truly captivated by the family's dynamic. Their deep care for one another and their willingness to do anything to protect each other is heartwarming.
OMG, the daughter is just adorable and so sweet! She's definitely my favorite character! I can't believe how she surprises Charlotte! Alex will always ensure that his girls are safe!
I eagerly await the final book in the series!
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
Review of advance copy received from Author
For all the readers who want their tatted-up Mafioso as a single dad and a hot genius nerd with glasses.
Charlotte is trapped, married to an absolute monster. A stranger gives her hope. And that stranger has a reputation not only as a monster but also as someone from one of the most feared and powerful families in NY. But he gave her something in fifteen minutes, something she's never had. The feeling of safety.
Alex wants nothing more than to save the woman he offered his help to, especially once he discovers her identity. Once he gets his chance, he will stop at nothing to make her his. And the key to this man's heart is, of course, through his toddler daughter, Clara. He'll burn the world down for his girls.
I received this as an ARC from the author. I had never read an Ashley Elizabeth novel and went into this book with some hesitation. I was also worried that this was the 4th in a series. Those concerns turned out to be completely unwarranted. Though part of a series, it works as a standalone. There are a few triggers here to consider: domestic violence/abuse, rape (off-page), trafficking, murder, and kidnapping.
Some of my fav tropes: Single Dad / Nanny; Mafia Killer with a heart of gold, Touch her and die, Revenge.
This is an anguished slow burn that pays off in gold, Scrooge McDuck-style. Charlotte and Alex can only lie to themselves for so long before the steam melts the paint off the walls. It had me kicking my feet in anticipation.
Some heavy topics get addressed throughout, and it hits hard. I found myself emotionally drawn to Charlotte and had to set aside the Kindle a few times to catch my breath. I wanted to hug that young woman something fierce! She's an old soul. Add in a helping of Clara, the sleepy toddler who giggles like she's being tickled by fairy wings, and this is the perfect family. Charlotte would die for her tiny charge, whom she grows to love quicker than a toddler can make a mess with marinara sauce.
My fav side character, hands down, has got to be SQUISH. Never get between a toddler and her favourite toy, LOL.
The writing was clear and inspired, and I've got nothing to nitpick; the imagery evoked every opulent room, every earthy, floral scent, and I could close my eyes and feel the churning storm or the spray of the salty ocean. The pacing flowed well; I couldn't put it down. The plot and subplot worked in tandem and always made sense. Each scene worked seamlessly, the plot and characters weaving together to create a gorgeous tapestry.
There were certain traits that felt a smidge repetitive for the characters, but it never interfered with the story. I found our FMC and MMC incredibly well-thought-out, realistic, and flawed. It made them engaging and had me caring for them from the very first chapter.
If you're a fan of L.J. Shen, Sadie Kincaid, or Elliott Rose, you won't be disappointed. I look forward to going back to the beginning of this series and devouring the rest of Stephanie's catalogue.
Charlotte is trapped, married to an absolute monster. A stranger gives her hope. And that stranger has a reputation not only as a monster but also as someone from one of the most feared and powerful families in NY. But he gave her something in fifteen minutes, something she's never had. The feeling of safety.
Alex wants nothing more than to save the woman he offered his help to, especially once he discovers her identity. Once he gets his chance, he will stop at nothing to make her his. And the key to this man's heart is, of course, through his toddler daughter, Clara. He'll burn the world down for his girls.
I received this as an ARC from the author. I had never read an Ashley Elizabeth novel and went into this book with some hesitation. I was also worried that this was the 4th in a series. Those concerns turned out to be completely unwarranted. Though part of a series, it works as a standalone. There are a few triggers here to consider: domestic violence/abuse, rape (off-page), trafficking, murder, and kidnapping.
Some of my fav tropes: Single Dad / Nanny; Mafia Killer with a heart of gold, Touch her and die, Revenge.
This is an anguished slow burn that pays off in gold, Scrooge McDuck-style. Charlotte and Alex can only lie to themselves for so long before the steam melts the paint off the walls. It had me kicking my feet in anticipation.
Some heavy topics get addressed throughout, and it hits hard. I found myself emotionally drawn to Charlotte and had to set aside the Kindle a few times to catch my breath. I wanted to hug that young woman something fierce! She's an old soul. Add in a helping of Clara, the sleepy toddler who giggles like she's being tickled by fairy wings, and this is the perfect family. Charlotte would die for her tiny charge, whom she grows to love quicker than a toddler can make a mess with marinara sauce.
My fav side character, hands down, has got to be SQUISH. Never get between a toddler and her favourite toy, LOL.
The writing was clear and inspired, and I've got nothing to nitpick; the imagery evoked every opulent room, every earthy, floral scent, and I could close my eyes and feel the churning storm or the spray of the salty ocean. The pacing flowed well; I couldn't put it down. The plot and subplot worked in tandem and always made sense. Each scene worked seamlessly, the plot and characters weaving together to create a gorgeous tapestry.
There were certain traits that felt a smidge repetitive for the characters, but it never interfered with the story. I found our FMC and MMC incredibly well-thought-out, realistic, and flawed. It made them engaging and had me caring for them from the very first chapter.
If you're a fan of L.J. Shen, Sadie Kincaid, or Elliott Rose, you won't be disappointed. I look forward to going back to the beginning of this series and devouring the rest of Stephanie's catalogue.
October 8, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
Thank you Grey’s Promotions and Ashley Elizabeth for the opportunity to be part of the ARC team!
Ashley has left us with a trail of breadcrumbs ever since Broken in the Dark about Alex and Charlotte. Which means I’ve been waiting three books to learn more about these two. Without fail, Ashley has delivered us another slam dunk - packed with intense suspense, crushing heartbreak and beautifully written love.
Promises in the Dark gives the spotlight over to Alessandro Alarie, the second eldest Alarie sibling, our favorite slutty little glasses MMC, and the brains of the operation. In the previous books, Alex has played the deadly, silent genius pulling strings from the shadows. After waiting three books, I was ready to crack open his reserved shell - and he did NOT disappoint! Not only do we get a front row seat into Alex’s brilliant mind, but we also get a massive dose of his adorable daughter, Clara. Ashley is a master at giving each large sibling a distinct vibe, and Alex is no exception. Underneath that lethal, hard exterior is a man dripping with love and loyalty.
Charlotte is our beautifully strong and soft FMC. Unlike the previous FMCs, Charlotte was very much a mystery character until this book. Charlotte was a total blank slate, which made peeling back her layers and watching her relationship with the Alarie family so rewarding. Ashley incorporates some heavier, deeply emotional themes in this book, and the character development she gives Charlotte is nothing short of breathtaking. Our FMC is fiercely capable, but fair warning to all readers: parts of her tragic past brought tears to my eyes! I absolutely loved watching her grow and become more confident throughout Promises in the Dark.
Promises in the Dark hit differently in my opinion from the previous sibling’s books - and I am absolutely obsessed. Both our main characters didn’t get a ton of setup in the earlier installments, which made discovering them that much more exciting. Promises in the Dark is also noticeably less sexually charged. Ashley handles Charlotte’s past trauma with incredible care and respect - trading an immediate lust-at-first-sight spark for a heavy dose of delicious yearning and slow-burn trust building.
Bravo, Ashley! Yet another 5 star read and of course left us with a great set up for the final story in the Alarie Heirs series. Promises in the Dark will be available on October 20th - head over to her website to pre-order your copy today!
🌶️🌶️
Thank you Grey’s Promotions and Ashley Elizabeth for the opportunity to be part of the ARC team!
Ashley has left us with a trail of breadcrumbs ever since Broken in the Dark about Alex and Charlotte. Which means I’ve been waiting three books to learn more about these two. Without fail, Ashley has delivered us another slam dunk - packed with intense suspense, crushing heartbreak and beautifully written love.
Promises in the Dark gives the spotlight over to Alessandro Alarie, the second eldest Alarie sibling, our favorite slutty little glasses MMC, and the brains of the operation. In the previous books, Alex has played the deadly, silent genius pulling strings from the shadows. After waiting three books, I was ready to crack open his reserved shell - and he did NOT disappoint! Not only do we get a front row seat into Alex’s brilliant mind, but we also get a massive dose of his adorable daughter, Clara. Ashley is a master at giving each large sibling a distinct vibe, and Alex is no exception. Underneath that lethal, hard exterior is a man dripping with love and loyalty.
Charlotte is our beautifully strong and soft FMC. Unlike the previous FMCs, Charlotte was very much a mystery character until this book. Charlotte was a total blank slate, which made peeling back her layers and watching her relationship with the Alarie family so rewarding. Ashley incorporates some heavier, deeply emotional themes in this book, and the character development she gives Charlotte is nothing short of breathtaking. Our FMC is fiercely capable, but fair warning to all readers: parts of her tragic past brought tears to my eyes! I absolutely loved watching her grow and become more confident throughout Promises in the Dark.
Promises in the Dark hit differently in my opinion from the previous sibling’s books - and I am absolutely obsessed. Both our main characters didn’t get a ton of setup in the earlier installments, which made discovering them that much more exciting. Promises in the Dark is also noticeably less sexually charged. Ashley handles Charlotte’s past trauma with incredible care and respect - trading an immediate lust-at-first-sight spark for a heavy dose of delicious yearning and slow-burn trust building.
Bravo, Ashley! Yet another 5 star read and of course left us with a great set up for the final story in the Alarie Heirs series. Promises in the Dark will be available on October 20th - head over to her website to pre-order your copy today!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received by the author.
Alessandro and Charlotte meet for the first time under the most insane circumstances. This is their story of how they get together while helping each other. Alessandro is doing everything he can to give Charlotte the freedom she desires while Charlotte is a nanny to his daughter Clara. Was eager to read Alessandro’s story ever since I read about him and Clara in the previous book.
This story is very well written and all the characters even the supporting ones are sketched very well. The dedication was so heartfelt. It is one of those that will stay with me for a very long time. The story started off really well and kept me gripped throughout. There wasn’t a single moment that felt unwanted. It just connected so beautifully together.
Alessandro is such a sweet character. He restores faith in humanity. I loved how he cares for Clara and then Charlotte. The concern he has for Charlotte without even knowing who she is was very sweet to read. I also loved how he made sure Charlotte knew she had a choice and didn’t force her for anything though his heart said another thing. The relation between Clara and him was beautifully written considering how he was thrust into this role of a single dad. I’m glad he finally got his happily ever after.
Charlotte felt very weak initially. But when the horrors she had been through started getting explained over the course of the book my heart went out to her. She was definitely one of the strongest female characters I’ve read who put everything she had into escaping an abusive relationship. So glad she had Alessandro to help her in this journey. The relationship she shared with Clara was so beautiful to read about. I also loved the way she interacted with the rest of the Alarie family. It was also nice to read how they accepted her so easily despite her having doubts. It was lovely to read about Charlotte finally getting her forever and being so loved in this family.
Vin, Scarlett and Caine added to the story and it was fun to read about them especially Caine’s antics. Can’t wait for Vin’s story now.
Alessandro and Charlotte meet for the first time under the most insane circumstances. This is their story of how they get together while helping each other. Alessandro is doing everything he can to give Charlotte the freedom she desires while Charlotte is a nanny to his daughter Clara. Was eager to read Alessandro’s story ever since I read about him and Clara in the previous book.
This story is very well written and all the characters even the supporting ones are sketched very well. The dedication was so heartfelt. It is one of those that will stay with me for a very long time. The story started off really well and kept me gripped throughout. There wasn’t a single moment that felt unwanted. It just connected so beautifully together.
Alessandro is such a sweet character. He restores faith in humanity. I loved how he cares for Clara and then Charlotte. The concern he has for Charlotte without even knowing who she is was very sweet to read. I also loved how he made sure Charlotte knew she had a choice and didn’t force her for anything though his heart said another thing. The relation between Clara and him was beautifully written considering how he was thrust into this role of a single dad. I’m glad he finally got his happily ever after.
Charlotte felt very weak initially. But when the horrors she had been through started getting explained over the course of the book my heart went out to her. She was definitely one of the strongest female characters I’ve read who put everything she had into escaping an abusive relationship. So glad she had Alessandro to help her in this journey. The relationship she shared with Clara was so beautiful to read about. I also loved the way she interacted with the rest of the Alarie family. It was also nice to read how they accepted her so easily despite her having doubts. It was lovely to read about Charlotte finally getting her forever and being so loved in this family.
Vin, Scarlett and Caine added to the story and it was fun to read about them especially Caine’s antics. Can’t wait for Vin’s story now.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay, so here's the thing. This was my very first Ashley Elizabeth book, AND I jumped straight into book four of The Alarie Heirs without reading the first three. Was I nervous about that? Absolutely!
But now I want to go back and read every single one of those brothers' stories!
Alessandro completely won me over. The patience, understanding, and respect he showed Charlotte were everything. After everything she'd been through, she needed someone who wasn't going to push her into another relationship or take away her ability to make her own choices.
And Alessandro understood that. He wanted her to heal. He wanted her to feel safe. And he gave her the time she needed.
Charlotte's journey was beautiful to watch. She'd never really known what it was like to have people she could depend on, even before her marriage. Watching her realize that she could lean on someone, trust them, and still be her own person was one of my favorite parts of this story.
And it wasn't just Alessandro. The entire Alarie family welcomed her. I loved her relationships with the brothers' wives and seeing how those connections helped her find a sense of belonging.
Now, little Clara! 🥹 Oh, that sweet girl absolutely stole my heart. The moments with her were just too precious, and I loved seeing how she became the center of the entire family's world.
The suspense surrounding Charlotte's past kept me wondering when everything would finally catch up with her. I had my suspicions, and let me just say, I was incredibly satisfied with how everything unfolded!
There was a lot of family history that I didn't know, and I really do wish I'd read the earlier books first. But I still loved this story, and now I'm even more excited to discover everything the other brothers went through.
I started this book not knowing the Alarie family, and I finished it wanting to know EVERYTHING about them!
Thank you to Grey's Promotions and Ashley Elizabeth for providing the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
But now I want to go back and read every single one of those brothers' stories!
Alessandro completely won me over. The patience, understanding, and respect he showed Charlotte were everything. After everything she'd been through, she needed someone who wasn't going to push her into another relationship or take away her ability to make her own choices.
And Alessandro understood that. He wanted her to heal. He wanted her to feel safe. And he gave her the time she needed.
Charlotte's journey was beautiful to watch. She'd never really known what it was like to have people she could depend on, even before her marriage. Watching her realize that she could lean on someone, trust them, and still be her own person was one of my favorite parts of this story.
And it wasn't just Alessandro. The entire Alarie family welcomed her. I loved her relationships with the brothers' wives and seeing how those connections helped her find a sense of belonging.
Now, little Clara! 🥹 Oh, that sweet girl absolutely stole my heart. The moments with her were just too precious, and I loved seeing how she became the center of the entire family's world.
The suspense surrounding Charlotte's past kept me wondering when everything would finally catch up with her. I had my suspicions, and let me just say, I was incredibly satisfied with how everything unfolded!
There was a lot of family history that I didn't know, and I really do wish I'd read the earlier books first. But I still loved this story, and now I'm even more excited to discover everything the other brothers went through.
I started this book not knowing the Alarie family, and I finished it wanting to know EVERYTHING about them!
Thank you to Grey's Promotions and Ashley Elizabeth for providing the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Because loving someone isn't keeping them caged like a bird; it's giving them freedom to live."
Oh, my goodness, typically I need time to warm up to a book, but not here! I sat down to read and glanced up to find I was at 25% and I'd already cried twice (at least). Ashley Elizabeth has a unique talent to draw readers in and immediately hook them with Charlotte's heartbreaking and hopeless attempt to escape her abusive marriage. When reading, I want to care so deeply for the characters that I can't put the book down, I want to cry alongside the characters, I want to collapse with exhaustion after thrilling scenes - this book checked every box! Not only did I love this book, but I've now made plans to return and read the entire series. The writing was dynamic and the story thrilling. I could feel my heart beating quickly from the beginning. Promises in the Dark showcases a billionaire mafia family, single dad/nanny relationship, trauma healing, and a mile-long list of trigger warnings that dark romance lovers will devour! Oh, and Alex wears glasses... so enjoy that (swoon!).
Is there anything better than the moment the prince swoops in to save the princess? I didn't think so. If you're like me, you crave the bleak moment where it feels like all hope is lost and all good is vanquished. When suddenly...HE arrives. I especially connected with Charlotte's feelings of powerlessness, and Alex's response to her is heartbreaking and breathtaking (I literally felt the pangs of emotion in my chest). I need my MMCs to be powerful, morally questionable, tender only for her, and extremely dangerous, and Alex absolutely delivers. And if any of this resonates with you, then you'll definitely enjoy Promises in the Dark!
Thank you to Ashley Elizabeth and Grey's Promo for sharing an early copy to read and review!
Oh, my goodness, typically I need time to warm up to a book, but not here! I sat down to read and glanced up to find I was at 25% and I'd already cried twice (at least). Ashley Elizabeth has a unique talent to draw readers in and immediately hook them with Charlotte's heartbreaking and hopeless attempt to escape her abusive marriage. When reading, I want to care so deeply for the characters that I can't put the book down, I want to cry alongside the characters, I want to collapse with exhaustion after thrilling scenes - this book checked every box! Not only did I love this book, but I've now made plans to return and read the entire series. The writing was dynamic and the story thrilling. I could feel my heart beating quickly from the beginning. Promises in the Dark showcases a billionaire mafia family, single dad/nanny relationship, trauma healing, and a mile-long list of trigger warnings that dark romance lovers will devour! Oh, and Alex wears glasses... so enjoy that (swoon!).
Is there anything better than the moment the prince swoops in to save the princess? I didn't think so. If you're like me, you crave the bleak moment where it feels like all hope is lost and all good is vanquished. When suddenly...HE arrives. I especially connected with Charlotte's feelings of powerlessness, and Alex's response to her is heartbreaking and breathtaking (I literally felt the pangs of emotion in my chest). I need my MMCs to be powerful, morally questionable, tender only for her, and extremely dangerous, and Alex absolutely delivers. And if any of this resonates with you, then you'll definitely enjoy Promises in the Dark!
Thank you to Ashley Elizabeth and Grey's Promo for sharing an early copy to read and review!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
★★★★★ - I received this book as an ARC
Alessandro Alarie. That’s it. That’s the review.
Except obviously it’s not because I need to yell about this book for a minute.
Promises in the Dark was EVERYTHING I wanted it to be. Protective man? Check. Found family? Check. Single dad? Check. A woman trying to escape a life she never chose? Check. A dangerous man becoming the safest place she’s ever known??? I was absolutely done for.
I loved watching her slowly realize that freedom didn’t have to mean being alone.
And Alessandro with his daughter already had me weak, but Alessandro with HER? The patience. The protection. The way he gives her space while also making it very clear that nobody is ever going to hurt her again.
SIR.
There is something about a morally gray man who would burn everything down for the woman he loves that apparently works on me every single time.
The romance was emotional without losing the darkness and suspense I wanted from this series. I was invested in their relationship, I was stressed about what was coming for them, and I desperately wanted her to finally have the family and safety she deserved.
And the found family aspect??? 🥹
This book hit that perfect combination of dark romance, danger, emotional healing, possessive “touch her and die” energy, and a MMC who is terrifying to everyone except the people he loves.
Alessandro Alarie, you have officially been added to the book boyfriend roster.
Easy five stars. 🖤
Alessandro Alarie. That’s it. That’s the review.
Except obviously it’s not because I need to yell about this book for a minute.
Promises in the Dark was EVERYTHING I wanted it to be. Protective man? Check. Found family? Check. Single dad? Check. A woman trying to escape a life she never chose? Check. A dangerous man becoming the safest place she’s ever known??? I was absolutely done for.
I loved watching her slowly realize that freedom didn’t have to mean being alone.
And Alessandro with his daughter already had me weak, but Alessandro with HER? The patience. The protection. The way he gives her space while also making it very clear that nobody is ever going to hurt her again.
SIR.
There is something about a morally gray man who would burn everything down for the woman he loves that apparently works on me every single time.
The romance was emotional without losing the darkness and suspense I wanted from this series. I was invested in their relationship, I was stressed about what was coming for them, and I desperately wanted her to finally have the family and safety she deserved.
And the found family aspect??? 🥹
This book hit that perfect combination of dark romance, danger, emotional healing, possessive “touch her and die” energy, and a MMC who is terrifying to everyone except the people he loves.
Alessandro Alarie, you have officially been added to the book boyfriend roster.
Easy five stars. 🖤
October 8, 2026
this might possibly be my favourite book in the whole series! and my quickest read yet because it was THAT GOOD !!!
let me just say i was SOBBING (happy tears) in the last few chapters of just how beautiful the story was. i literally adore this book so damn much.
the story is so healing for charlotte and honestly made me as a reader feel do proud of what she was able to accomplish. alex, charlotte and of course the cutest kid ever clara are so perfect for each other. i LOVE their family smmm.
i was always curious with alex when reading the other three books and i did have a feeling he might be my favourite brother. can confirm that he has quite literally made me melt 🫠🤭. he not only wears glasses (we love that 🤭) but also says the right words and at the right time 🙏😼. (literally swooning over him hehehe)
the storyline and plot was so beautifully written. theres just something about ashley’s books that would literally feel like you transported into the book and i love that!
the alaries are literally just a walking green amazon forest atp, every single one of them are just chef kiss 🤌!!!
i am so excited for the final book in the series that follows vincenzo’s story. he was so sassy in the other books and lowkey one of my favourite character hahaha.
💙 tysm to ashley and greys promo for this beautiful arc!
let me just say i was SOBBING (happy tears) in the last few chapters of just how beautiful the story was. i literally adore this book so damn much.
the story is so healing for charlotte and honestly made me as a reader feel do proud of what she was able to accomplish. alex, charlotte and of course the cutest kid ever clara are so perfect for each other. i LOVE their family smmm.
i was always curious with alex when reading the other three books and i did have a feeling he might be my favourite brother. can confirm that he has quite literally made me melt 🫠🤭. he not only wears glasses (we love that 🤭) but also says the right words and at the right time 🙏😼. (literally swooning over him hehehe)
the storyline and plot was so beautifully written. theres just something about ashley’s books that would literally feel like you transported into the book and i love that!
the alaries are literally just a walking green amazon forest atp, every single one of them are just chef kiss 🤌!!!
i am so excited for the final book in the series that follows vincenzo’s story. he was so sassy in the other books and lowkey one of my favourite character hahaha.
💙 tysm to ashley and greys promo for this beautiful arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
After getting little glimpses of Charlotte in the previous book, I had been so curious about her story—and my heart definitely wasn’t ready for this one. 🥹 This book truly gave me EVERYTHING.
Alessandro and Charlotte’s story, from sitting on the bathroom floor to building a life together, was such an emotional journey. Alessandro… THE MAN YOU ARE. He is the definition of “I keep my promises, and I don’t break them.” And the whole “touch her and you’re dead” energy? Yeah… he definitely took that to another level. 😂🔥
And Charlotte—what an FMC! I could really feel her struggles throughout the story, and I’m so glad she found the courage to finally go for it. I especially loved her inner monologue, where she kept reminding herself: **just keep going, you’ll get there.**
And honestly, that message felt so fitting, especially in our own lives. We all face challenges, moments of doubt, and times when we wonder if we’re really going to make it. But sometimes, we just have to keep going. We’ll never know the outcome if we stop trying.
Charlotte and Alessandro’s story was emotional, inspiring, and absolutely worth the wait. I loved watching them find their way to each other and build the life they deserved. ❤️
#DarkRomance #BillionaireRomance #MafiaRomance #TouchHerandDie #SingleDadRomance
Alessandro and Charlotte’s story, from sitting on the bathroom floor to building a life together, was such an emotional journey. Alessandro… THE MAN YOU ARE. He is the definition of “I keep my promises, and I don’t break them.” And the whole “touch her and you’re dead” energy? Yeah… he definitely took that to another level. 😂🔥
And Charlotte—what an FMC! I could really feel her struggles throughout the story, and I’m so glad she found the courage to finally go for it. I especially loved her inner monologue, where she kept reminding herself: **just keep going, you’ll get there.**
And honestly, that message felt so fitting, especially in our own lives. We all face challenges, moments of doubt, and times when we wonder if we’re really going to make it. But sometimes, we just have to keep going. We’ll never know the outcome if we stop trying.
Charlotte and Alessandro’s story was emotional, inspiring, and absolutely worth the wait. I loved watching them find their way to each other and build the life they deserved. ❤️
#DarkRomance #BillionaireRomance #MafiaRomance #TouchHerandDie #SingleDadRomance
October 11, 2026
ARC Review: Promises in the Dark
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“If you want me to burn the world down for you, just say the word, and I’ll light the match.”
Promises In The Dark was such an emotional and beautifully written story. It’s loaded with tender touches, stolen glances, palpable love and “touch her and you burn” moments. (Our dearest Alex is a slight pyromaniac 😉) The way I devoured this book is insane. I was already a sucker for any of the Alarie men but Alex is top-tier.
Alex is a tall, tatted up, muscled badass who’s also a tech genius and will LITERALLY “burn the world down” for his girl as he hijacks your bank account.
Charlotte has such a tender, loving soul but is trapped in an abusive relationship. She finds herself seeking a strangers comfort on a bathroom floor to only find out later the man who comforted her is the same man who she seeks refuge with, Alex Alarie.
💯/10 recommend reading the Alarie Heirs series and see just how obsessed and possessive these men are for their women.
You’re definitely going to see me with my bowl of popcorn and sunglasses on as I watch my Vinny boy scorch the entire Earth to find his elusive, fiery, redheaded woman. IYKYK 😉
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“If you want me to burn the world down for you, just say the word, and I’ll light the match.”
Promises In The Dark was such an emotional and beautifully written story. It’s loaded with tender touches, stolen glances, palpable love and “touch her and you burn” moments. (Our dearest Alex is a slight pyromaniac 😉) The way I devoured this book is insane. I was already a sucker for any of the Alarie men but Alex is top-tier.
Alex is a tall, tatted up, muscled badass who’s also a tech genius and will LITERALLY “burn the world down” for his girl as he hijacks your bank account.
Charlotte has such a tender, loving soul but is trapped in an abusive relationship. She finds herself seeking a strangers comfort on a bathroom floor to only find out later the man who comforted her is the same man who she seeks refuge with, Alex Alarie.
💯/10 recommend reading the Alarie Heirs series and see just how obsessed and possessive these men are for their women.
You’re definitely going to see me with my bowl of popcorn and sunglasses on as I watch my Vinny boy scorch the entire Earth to find his elusive, fiery, redheaded woman. IYKYK 😉
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars
Thank you to Grey's Promotions & Ashley Elizabeth for the ARC!
Alex. ALEX. Somebody give this man his flowers because WHAT A MMC. 😩🖤
This book had me swooning, kicking my feet, and generally being an absolute mess over fictional people. The romance was EVERYTHING, and I loved every second of it. Alex is officially one of my favorite MMCs, and I will not be taking questions at this time.
I loved this book just as much as the third book in the series, which is saying something because apparently Ashley Elizabeth knows exactly how to get me emotionally invested in these characters. The romance had me in a chokehold, and I was more than happy to stay there.
Also, can we talk about how you don't need to read the first two books to enjoy this one? Because I haven't read them, and I had absolutely no trouble jumping in and falling in love with this story. So if you've been putting this one off because you haven't started the series yet, consider this your sign to JUST READ IT.
Anyway, I'm off to stare into the distance and think about Alex. Respectfully, I have a new fictional man to be unwell about. 🖤
Thank you to Grey's Promotions & Ashley Elizabeth for the ARC!
Alex. ALEX. Somebody give this man his flowers because WHAT A MMC. 😩🖤
This book had me swooning, kicking my feet, and generally being an absolute mess over fictional people. The romance was EVERYTHING, and I loved every second of it. Alex is officially one of my favorite MMCs, and I will not be taking questions at this time.
I loved this book just as much as the third book in the series, which is saying something because apparently Ashley Elizabeth knows exactly how to get me emotionally invested in these characters. The romance had me in a chokehold, and I was more than happy to stay there.
Also, can we talk about how you don't need to read the first two books to enjoy this one? Because I haven't read them, and I had absolutely no trouble jumping in and falling in love with this story. So if you've been putting this one off because you haven't started the series yet, consider this your sign to JUST READ IT.
Anyway, I'm off to stare into the distance and think about Alex. Respectfully, I have a new fictional man to be unwell about. 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
Promises in the Dark by Ashley Elizabeth
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oh my heart! Ashley Elizabeth absolutely got me with this one!
Alex and Charlotte's story was everything I love about a dark romance with an emotional side. I love a dangerous, protective man who would burn the entire world down for the woman he loves, and Alex is exactly that kind of man!
Charlotte's strength and determination to finally take control of her life made me love her even more. And the relationship she builds with Alex's little girl? That just melted my heart. There is something so special about watching someone who has been through so much finally find a place where they feel safe, wanted, and loved.
The suspense, the emotions, the chemistry, and that fierce protectiveness had me completely invested. This wasn't just about falling in love. It was about finding freedom, healing, and discovering the family you never thought you could have.
Ashley Elizabeth gave me all the feels with this one, and I loved every second of Alex and Charlotte's story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oh my heart! Ashley Elizabeth absolutely got me with this one!
Alex and Charlotte's story was everything I love about a dark romance with an emotional side. I love a dangerous, protective man who would burn the entire world down for the woman he loves, and Alex is exactly that kind of man!
Charlotte's strength and determination to finally take control of her life made me love her even more. And the relationship she builds with Alex's little girl? That just melted my heart. There is something so special about watching someone who has been through so much finally find a place where they feel safe, wanted, and loved.
The suspense, the emotions, the chemistry, and that fierce protectiveness had me completely invested. This wasn't just about falling in love. It was about finding freedom, healing, and discovering the family you never thought you could have.
Ashley Elizabeth gave me all the feels with this one, and I loved every second of Alex and Charlotte's story!
October 11, 2026
I was given a chance to ARC read Promises in the Dark by Ashley Elizabeth for my honest review. I must say Alex may have taken over as my favorite Alaire sibling. Unbeknownst to us Alex had been yearning for Charlotte for quite some time. The opening of the book we see some of the trauma that Charlotte was subjected to that made her and Alex‘s path cross. Alex went above and beyond to comfort and care for Charlotte. I love the relationship that she had with his daughter and felt that him being a single dad mattered to the story. I always enjoy the found family aspect with this series, all the side characters really just add to the story and we see couples from previous books as well. I thought the pacing flowed well and I thought Alex & Charlotte had great chemistry together. Definitely a great read that I would recommend adding to your TBR. Thank you to Ashley Elizabeth and Grey’s Promotions for the opportunity to ARC read this title.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4⭐3.5🌶️ ARC Dual POV First Person 393pgs
The Alarie Heirs book #4
🇺🇸 Author, setting, characters
Charlotte and Alex
Check TW
This was my first book from this series/author.
Plan on going back and reading from the start before the next one. While some things were predictable, I still enjoyed the story.
This story shows that morally grey men can actually be green flags, and those that protray themselves to be charming to the public are actually monsters.
"For every woman who thinks she missed her chance at a happily ever after...
Your story hasn't ended.
And there are still so many pages left to write.
So go fill them in. One day at a time."
The Alarie Heirs book #4
🇺🇸 Author, setting, characters
Charlotte and Alex
Check TW
This was my first book from this series/author.
Plan on going back and reading from the start before the next one. While some things were predictable, I still enjoyed the story.
This story shows that morally grey men can actually be green flags, and those that protray themselves to be charming to the public are actually monsters.
"For every woman who thinks she missed her chance at a happily ever after...
Your story hasn't ended.
And there are still so many pages left to write.
So go fill them in. One day at a time."
Review of advance copy received from Author
Charlotte has been through hell for the last three years. Her parents sold her off to a monster and she is not sure how to escape. Alex offers her a lifeline. She just has to take it. Alex is dealing eith alot when his life is more hectis now with the little girl who was left at his gate. His daughter that he now had to protect. He couldn't forget Charlotte snd his deep need to protect her. Will he be able? Will she take the leap? This is a good dark read.
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am not usually a dark romance girly but this was surprisingly written in a way that captivated me. The theme of found family is my favorite trope and you see that in here. The showcasing of how love and loyalty can flourish in unexpected circumstances was cool to see.
The themes of healing and redemption are also beautifully woven throughout. It’s a powerful reminder that healing often comes through the bonds we form with others.
It is a compelling read that balances suspense with deep emotional growth. Highly recommend it. I need to go back and read the others before this one.
The themes of healing and redemption are also beautifully woven throughout. It’s a powerful reminder that healing often comes through the bonds we form with others.
It is a compelling read that balances suspense with deep emotional growth. Highly recommend it. I need to go back and read the others before this one.
Review of advance copy
I love when the big bad Mafia prince is really a soft and cuddly teddy bear to his woman! I loved Alex's gentleness and patience with Charlotte, it was so special and sweet. Who doesn't want a rich and powerful Mafia man to treat you like a princess?? Love this series and can't wait for more!
Review of advance copy
This series is so good. Do I know that all of them are going to end with a kidnapping? Yes and I will eat it up every time. Alex was waiting for her and she fit right into his family. She finally found a place where she was free and belonged.
I received an arc from grey's promotion.
I received an arc from grey's promotion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another solid book added to a series that has been full of 5 star reads!
The CW/TW are legit and mental health is health...
But if you want to dive into a series where the family is full of morally grey men, who fall hard for women who have fought to survive...you will love these books!
The CW/TW are legit and mental health is health...
But if you want to dive into a series where the family is full of morally grey men, who fall hard for women who have fought to survive...you will love these books!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a great book! Really kept me on my toes and once I started reading I couldn't stop! I hope we get more of Alex and Charlotte.
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