El Diablo

El Diablo #1

by M. Robinson

Alternate cover edition of ASIN B01GGL89P4


I was ruthless.
I was feared.
I had sacrificed. Myself. Her. Everything...

Living in a world where I was worth more dead than alive was a choice. I was a bad man, never claimed to be anything else. I’ve done things I’m not proud of. Seen things that can’t be unseen. I’ve caused pain that I can’t undo.
It was all my choice.
Every decision.
Every order.
Right and wrong never mattered.
Until her.
She was under my protection, until she became my obsession.
But who was going to save her...

From. Me. The devil himself.

Fate brought us together. Destiny destroyed us.

STANDALONE. New Adult Contemporary Romance: Full length novel.

Genres: Dark, Romance, Dark Romance, Mafia Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Abuse

418 pages, ebook

First published August 30, 2016

About the author

M. Robinson is the Wall Street Journal & USA Today Bestselling Author crowned as the “Queen of Angst” by readers around the world. Dive into her visionary world that will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and leave you wanting more. She writes everything from contemporary to suspense romance and is best known for her novel, El Diablo.

When M isn’t in the cave writing her next epic love story, you will find her shopping and living on a boat in Florida with her real life pirate, her lobster, her husband Bossman. Sipping on Starbucks and hanging out with their two dogs, a German shepherd mix and a gordito Wheaten Terrier reading a good book. Or spending time with her family, who she is extremely close with.

Above all, M loves her readers more than anything and loves to connect with them! She is on all social media platforms @authormrobinson but you will find her in her happy place the most. Her VIP Reader Group on Facebook or her second favorite happy place, Instagram.

Stay connected!

Reviews

[SueBee★bring me an alpha!★ · Rating 5 out of 5]

★★★★★! El Diablo (stand-alone book 1). Meet the man behind the legend. Alejandro Martinez’s epic saga spanning decades!

“She was trying to save me when all I would do was destroy her.”

They called him El Diablo, the devil. Alejandro Eduardo Martinez spent his life running a worldwide mob empire.

Death and fortune attached themselves to him. Governments bowed to him. The law bent for him. Men equally feared and admired him. And women swooned at his feet.

One woman would come along. She would be his weakness, his downfall and his salvation. The man behind the legend. This is his epic saga, spanning decades.

“Little did she know, I was the villain in this story.”

Meet Alejandro Eduardo Martinez, the boy, the man, the gangster, the lover and… the legend!

The boy: Once an innocent boy before love, betrayal, death and destruction wrecked any illusions of a normal life.

The man: Violence, vengeance, jealousy and greed took every person who ever meant anything to him.

The gangster: With nothing left to lose, he carried on and expanded his mob empire on the principles of ruthlessness and cunning.

The lover: But one woman would bring him to his knees and she’d spend her life paying for it.

The legend: He might have inherited the title El Diablo. But he became a legend in his own right!

“So here I am… What can my cock make you forget tonight?”

Nine words to describe Lexi: Innocent, broken, naïve, impressionable, unassuming, meek, steadfast, focused and survivor.

“Every devil needs an angel. And she was mine.”

El Diablo, told from dual POVs, in all its violence, death, destruction, betrayal, secrets and lies is the perfect blend of intrigue, suspense, shockers and heartbreak. It was a glued-to-your-Kindle addicting saga, with a bittersweet yet perfect ending!

I sob for all the years wasted, lives lost, dreams crushed, hearts broken, but most of all for the man caught behind the legend. Be still my beating heart.

All-consuming! Unpredictable! Unforgettable! Epic! Kudos M. Robinson!

“You were the villain in your own story, Martinez. In mine, you’ve always been my hero.”

***
Hero rating: 5+ stars
Heroine rating: 5 stars
Sexual tension rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4.5 stars
Plot rating: 5+ stars
Dialogue rating: 5 stars
Storytelling rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: 5 stars
**********************************************
Overall rating: 5 stars

Would I recommend this story: Yes.
Would I re-read this story: Yes.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.



Tagged along on shhlut’s (F)BR. Thank you Liz, LoLo, WaWa & CC!

ARC provided to me by author M. Robinson in exchange for an honest review.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



She needed to stay away from me. I wanted her to stay away from me. I should've made her leave, but it didn’t matter because I couldn’t stay away from her any longer. And in the end…I didn’t want to.”

A seductive tantalizing read that will for sure leave readers begging, wanting, craving, crying, and dying for more of El Diablo!! The devil has truly left its mark as M. Robinson has cemented her place as an author that deserves your full undivided attention. Robinson delivers a sinful and calculating forbidden romance that will haunt and consume readers as hearts will ache, beg, be broken and slowly mended in M.Robinson’s angsty signature.



The Devil. I am not talking about the devil that lives in Hell but I’m talking about the devil that grins and who can seduce you with his bewitching tongue and destroy you with the snap of his fingers. That’s right. I am talking about Alejandro Martinez, aka El Diablo.

Don't knock on the devil's door, sweetheart, and expect him not to answer. ”

If you have read M. Robinson’s previous book, Crave Me, you have already been introduced to the fucking devil himself but if you haven’t read that book, do not worry as El Diablo can be read as a standalone but I do not advise it since you will be missing out on details from the previous book but not that much.



Alejandro Martinez is as cunning and ruthless as they come. He is a sinner. A killer. A liar. An opportunist. To state he is a Machiavellian is an understatement, because this devil is unscrupulous and crafty. He is the snake in the grass waiting to make his deadly bite. Alejandro Martinez is insidious. Duplicitous. Deadly. Canny. He is El Diablo.

Saying sorry was a sign of weakness, and I couldn’t bring myself to say the two words. To show her that I had a weak side, buried under all the bullshit. I really wanted to beg for her forgiveness, over and over again for what I’d done.”

When it comes to Alejandro everything is a game. He is the mastermind that is pulling all the strings. He is the King and he rules with an iron hand. But this brutal and deadly sinner didn’t begin this way until he knew first hand that power is key. Power is the only way to control and have your enemies fear you. Power is the only way to protect your heart that is until she entered the picture……



Lexi knows pain, loss, death, sacrifices, and monsters. Her life was never the picture perfect white picket fence that every girl dreams about. Instead, her life was about survival. Surviving to make ends meet and surviving to make her dreams of becoming a ballerina a reality. Hope was her grace and miracles don’t happen to girls like Lexi that is until she comes face to face with the devil himself.

I loved her with every breath in my body, every piece of my fucked up heart, every last part of me belonged to her.”

Lexi is the forbidden fruit that Alejandro wanted to taste. She was the epitome of salvation, hope and possibly love. As much as he tried to resist and stay away from her, he couldn’t. She was a siren luring him with her innocence, beauty, and fierce personality. She is the only person who can look the devil in the eyes and not back down. And that alone was enough justification for Alejandro to corrupt Lexi sexually, physically, spiritually, and mentally. She was his instrument to play. And boy oh boy, did he play with her.



I had killed. I had avenged. I had loved. I had destroyed lives and now it was my time to pay for being the Grim fucking Reaaper, taking lives that didn't belong to me. I just never thought my life would end like this. ”

As Lexi and Alejandro dances around their feelings for one another, an unraveling of secrets begins to take place. Every lies and sins are exposed. The truth was begging to be told. And how far will the Devil go to protect his secrets? And the answer is simple, he will go to hell and back.



Every Devil needs an Angel. And she was mine.”

El Diablo is by far the best book that M. Robinson has written to date. She took her writing to another level as she seductively weaves every facets of raw emotions to create a symphony of drama, angst, fourberie, betrayal, love, sacrifice, and unyielding passion. Robinson boldly paints a literary masterpiece where readers are taken down the proverbial rabbit hole where there is only way out and that is through the eyes of Alejandro Martinez. Every action has consequence. Every lie has a truth. And every pain has a reason. And so I urge, no beg you to read this cunning romance that will have you begging for more. And just remember The Devil was once an angel so discover why Alejandro Martinez is the devil in the suit that grins.



M. Robinson

[Candace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spanning decades, 'El Diablo' tells the story of Alejandro Martinez, a notorious cartel leader. Following him from his childhood, this book provides a front-row seat to the tragedy that was his life. He was born into the life and groomed from a young age to take over his father's role as leader of the cartel. In so many ways, he never stood a chance at a normal life.

Surviving the loss of numerous loved ones, especially the women closest to him, he grows into a callous man. He shows no emotion or concern for others, afraid that his feelings are weaknesses that his enemies will exploit. He has earned his reputation as a ruthless crime lord, aptly called "El Diablo" on the streets.

Lexi grows up without the love of parents. She's never known her real father and her other is emotionally absent on her best day. From a young age, she got used to taking care of herself. Being alone was the norm for her.

When Lexi's circumstances go from bad to worse, she throws herself into her dance. Ballet was her only escape. Her only dream was to become a ballerina.

Together, Alejandro and Lexi have incredible chemistry. The sexual tension and anticipation was incredible between these two. They played a back and forth game, literally for years. Every time I thought they were getting somewhere, Alejandro would do something to push Lexi away again. He definitely gave me some serious whiplash with his push and pull routine.

In fact, I had a really hard time with Alejandro's cruel and contradictory behaviors. He was a world-class a$$hole for the vast majority of the book. The few times when he wasn't, were quickly followed-up by more reprehensible behavior on his part. I love an antihero, but Alejandro took the cake.

That being said, I have a weakness for jerks (fictional characters only). If you don't, then you'll probably hate this book. Be forewarned--Alejandro is an a$$hat of epic proportions. He flaunts other women I front of Lexi, demeans her and says awful things. He was outright cruel often times.

At the same time, I couldn't hate him. He spent years protecting Lexi and providing for her financially. Despite his emotionally closed-off demeanor, it was apparent that he cared for her in his own screwed up way. I definitely had a love/hate relationship with Alejandro.

Even though this book did seem to go on for long periods of time without any remarkable events, I couldn't pull myself away from it. Talk about a slow-burn. It took years for these two to make it to third base! It might have even been a full decade before they had sex! Yet, I was completely absorbed in this story.

There is a huge twist at the end, which will blow your mind. The big reveal was something that had crossed my mind early-on, but that I had dismissed as I got further into the story. Even though I had guessed part of the secret, I was still thrown for a loop and left shell-shocked when everything was finally aired. I was crushed.

This book gutted me. I wanted to yell, cry and smash things! From beginning to end, I felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster. I was afraid to find out what would jump out around the next bend, but to curious to look away. I loved it!

Why then did I give it only 4 stars and not 5? I struggled with this one, but ultimately I decided to go with 4 stars because I thought that Lexi let Alejandro off easy. I expect my heroes to have to grovel and really work for forgiveness when they screw up...and Alejandro screwed up BIG on more than one occasion. Maybe it's my sadistic tendencies, but my inner bitch demanded blood! I wanted him to pay for what he put Lexi through. An apology and an explanation in a few pages didn't cover it after what he did. I wanted him to suffer some more.

[Christy · Rating 3 out of 5]

El Diablo is another extremely angsty read from M. Robinson. This is one author who knows how to write an angsty story. It was an unexpected and thrilling ride with a great antihero. Martinez is one of those characters you will hate to love and love to hate. I love characters like this!

El Diablo is Alejandro Martinez’s life story in a way. It spans decades and tells the story of a man who is the devil. At times, he is a monster, but he’s only the monster they created him to be. He’s not all bad, in fact he’s very attractive, cunning and captivating. Martinez never had a truly normal life. He grew up knowing one day he would follow in his father’s footsteps as the leader of the cartel. To do that, there would be no distractions. Not even the girl that he once loved… without love, he became El Diablo. The devil. The guy you were made to fear.

As Lexi grew up, all she wanted to be was a dancer. It was her dream. She would do anything to make that happen. Lexi’s life has been about surviving. If she wanted to make her dreams come true, she was going to do something about it. She’s a fiercely strong heroine who endures a lot in her life.

Lexi and Martinez skate around their feelings for some time. There is a lot between them. So many secrets. Martinez wants to protect her. As I said before, Martinez is one of those characters you love to hate and hate to love, but seeing those moments where you just know how much he truly cares for Lexi, it makes you love him. Even if you hate a lot of the choices he’s made throughout the story.

This is probably M. Robinson’s wildest ride yet. She writes some crazy stuff sometimes, and this one took the cake. It was full of secrets, violence, twists and turns. It’s one of those stories that will keep you guessing and you’ll be addicted to the angst in this story. This is loosely connected to the last book in The Good Ol’ Boys series, but can most definitely be read as a stand alone. If you’re looking for an intense and angst filled story with a fabulous anti-hero, this is one I recommend.

[NMmomof4 · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Stars

Overall Opinion: Well, I honestly am struggling on how to rate this one. Many other readers are loving this book, including some of my GR friends, but I didn't love it. This is definitely NOT for my safety gals! I don't mind an "unsafe" book from time to time, so that wasn't my issue. I had some major issues with the pacing (see below section), the constant push/pull from the H, wanting the h to be stronger at the end, and there was an overall lack of some good grovel by the H. It kind of lost me at the last push from the H, because both characters did things that I didn't feel were redeemed in the end. I was, however, satisfied with the ending for once! But, I felt like there was a lot of wasted time between the h and H that was unnecessary and maybe put in just for the sake of having some angst. It did keep me intruiged, and I did enjoy it at times...so I'm going with a middle of the road rating @ 3 stars.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: I can't really break this down without ruining it, but I'd say that this is more Alejandro's story than Lexi's. We meet Alejandro as a young teen when his father is starting to have him learn the ways of his criminal empire. We see how his loved ones struggle with how he is changing, and he has some traumatic events happen that just further him into becoming the cruel, unfeeling man that he is later in life. We meet Lexi, who is many years younger than him, and they have an instant connection. Through many years, they keep on meeting and cannot deny that connection. There are some violent and sad moments, some hot sexy times, and some major angst going on...will they get a HEA?

POV: This alternated between Lexi and Alejandro's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Ok. This was one of my biggest issues with the book. I feel like it is realistic in that relationships as complex as these ones do not happen over a few months, so I did appreciate that aspect. I think I was just bothered by the constant time jumps! This relationship between the h and H is told over what has to be 20 years! It took them way too long to get their shit together IMO. I just felt like it was a waste tbh. It took me a while to get into this book too. I wouldn't say it was slow, but the first section (it's broken down into 4) was about the H as a young man getting into the life and his relationship with his first love. While it was nice to have this insight, I felt like it just went on too long and I was ready to meet the h (which we don't until part 2). I skimmed a little in that first section, but no other times.

Instalove: No. They take years to develop stronger feelings (but they do have a instant strong connection).

H rating: 3 stars. Alejandro. Hmmm....what to say about him?! He was hot. He was cruel and scary. He was lonely and damaged. He was a pretty complex character...

h rating: 3.5 stars. Lexi. I liked her attitude and how she gave sass to the H. She was a very strong character for the most part. I did want her to be stronger and make him grovel some more (especially towards the end) at times.

Sadness level: Low/moderate. I teared up a few times, but I never needed any tissues.

Push/Pull: Yes! The H is constantly hot and cold. He pulls the h in and then pushes her away. This goes on up until the very end! They both pursue the relationship at times.

Heat level: Moderate. They have some hot chemistry and scenes, but not so much that it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

Safe sex: Yes. Condoms are mentioned. The H had only gone without with his first love and the h, and I don't remember any mention of her practices with the OM.

OW/OM drama: Yes, but not in the usual way The whole 1st section is the H with OW as a young man (his first and only love other than the h). She breaks his heart. The h is almost engaged to OM during one of their separations but he dies in car accident.

Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes There are more than a couple scenes with H and OW.

Cheating: Not technically They are recently separated (after being together for ~3 years straight), but the h walks in on him getting a bj by OW that we later find out he did to push her away

Separation:Yes Many separations. It is implied that the h only had relations with one other man (during their 10 year separation), but I was under the impression that the H had other partners during all their separations.

Possible Triggers: Yes Violence/killing, rape, loss of a parent, suicide, drug use by side character, child molestation, prostitution (side character), virgin h and manwhore H, and large age gap between h and H (20ish years?).

Closure: The events leading up to the ending are a little shocking, so I'm going to put this with a spoiler tag... There was a great epilogue and HEA ending

How I got it: I paid the $2.99 on Amazon.

Safety: I'd call this Not Safe for most of the safety gals.

- Does Not have cheating (technically, but see above "cheating" spoiler)
- Does have more than 1 descriptive sex scene with H and OW
- Does have the H pushing the h away
- Does have many separations between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts IMO (see "sadness" section above)
- Does have a HEA ending.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 My Dark Angel stars



The Devil is in the details, and this doesn't miss a thing... riding that fine line between love and hate.

Alejandro Martinez is El Diablo

I had killed. I had avenged. I had loved. I had destroyed lives and now it was my time to pay for being the Grim fucking Reaper, taking lives that didn’t belong to me.

He's never wanted anything until he sees her, knowing all too painfully he can never let her near. After all nothing ever good comes to those that loved him.



And you'd think after the fucked up mess fate has thrown their way they would get their happily ever after, destiny decides to be a bitch and destroy it all...



El Diablo will break your heart, there is no sugar coating him and his assholic ways. He is a man whose soul is consumed by demons, too blind to see what a gift Lexi is in his own personal hell. His story will consume you and make you wish you could save a man like him. This is a story of a dead man walking and the woman who loved him above all reason ready to walk through the flames of hell if it meant being by his side. I was all over the board with my feelings for him and thankful that Lexi is who she is; young but wise beyond her years. While I was pissed with him, Lexi was the anchor to the story, holding her own in a world where most will crumble.

It was brutal, honest and full of angst; guaranteed to be a story you either are going to love or hate. I can't say much as it is a story that you have to come to your own conclusions. I highly recommend you give it a try, especially if you are like me and love them larger than life and oh so bad.

ARC kindly provided by the author, via *Sixty First Reads*, in exchange for an honest review.

***Quotes above are taken from the version of the book I received and may differ from published edition.

Side Note: This man is the PERFECT fantasy and doesn't this picture just melt your heart even more.

[Jennifer Kyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 STARS

[image error]

The first forty percent of this story which spans the hero’s childhood to adulthood was definitely a five star read. Thereafter, I had a hard time with the manner in which the story was drawn out and dragged out till the reveals. I think for me, the first forty as a standalone story or prequel would have worked since I would have been prepared to let go of a heroine and embrace the hero’s new infatuation/love interest. Or perhaps if the story was just condensed a bunch in the second half?



M. Robinson opens this story with a bang and I was completely connected to this crime family who suffers so many losses. The story spans decades as a young Alejandro Martinez is groomed to head this Columbian crime family and one day be known as EL DIABLO.



”Even the Devil was an angel once, Alejandro. It’s only a matter of time until you become El Diablo, too.”

Once the story went into Alejandro’s reign I struggled with his love interest the lonely, poor, ballerina who may or may not be connected to him. Shockingly there wasn’t any mob business involved in the whole book! No connections, no meets, no deals, nada. It’s all the push and pull of Alejandro feelings for Lexi. He wants her yet he pushes her away, he’s her secret sugar daddy yet he can’t be with her…

”She needed to stay away from me. I wanted her to stay away from me. I should’ve made her leave, but it didn’t matter because I couldn’t stay away from her any longer. And in the end…I didn’t fucking want to.”



Overall, the beginning truly packs a punch but what follows in the middle is a whole lot of nothing till the reveals.

”You were the villain in your own story, Martinez. In mine, you’ve always been my hero.”

[Hulya Kara Yuksel · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Every Devil needs an Angel.
And she was mine..."

OH MY GOD! I'm speechless right now. This book literally took my breath away... I loved it so freaking much. <3

Pls stop whatever you're doing and go read this book. Go and meet with the Devil asap!!! You'll love him a lot.... ;)

[Mizz · Rating 1 out of 5]

https://romanticcynicblog.wordpress.c...

Beware of Spoilers!

Star Ratings:
Heroine (Lexi): 24yrs old
Hero (Alejandro): 45yrs old?
Plot: 1/5 – so disgusting
Grovel: none
Cheating: H deliberately has sex with another woman in front/within hearing distance of the h KNOWING he has feelings for the h
HEA: yes with a goddamned baby – they are so fucked up, it may as well have been incest

Triggers: attempted rape, detailed description of sex with OW, child sex abuse (h was sexually molested by her stepfather for years)

Average score: 1/5

Best Line: “I had never been a fan of those who preyed on the weak.”

Worst Line: “The shittier I was, the better I’d fuck them. Lexi proved to be no different.”

And

“The fact that I caused Lexi pain, when in reality all I wanted to do was to provide her with comfort.”

So man the fuck up then, Asshole!

Personal Review:
This book put me through the emotional wringer! I felt so much for them both for their childhood. The first part of the story was emotional but I was immensely annoyed with the second half because the h was so young and I kept waiting for the H to redeem himself and he never did.

I started to skip pages from chapter 32 because I lost faith and trust in both the characters and in the author. And I am pleased I did because he FUCKED A MOTHER AND A DAUGHTER AND TOOK THEIR VIRGINITY!!!!! (the h was Sophia’s daughter and Sophia was his ex-fiance)

HOW THE FUCK IS THIS ROMANCE?!!

“Do you know how many times over the years I had to catch myself from calling you Sophia? Stop myself from groaning out her name, instead of yours when we were fucking. All those years you’ve been asking me what cariño means. It was always your mother, Lexi. She was my cariño.”

Random Ramblings
•Hot cover guy – dark guys with light eyes are my weakness
•Amari annoyed me with her preach-iness
•Mixed feelings about Sophia
•In part one of the story, I didn’t understand why everyone was blaming him, I was on his side (but still wanted to punch him every time there was a sex scene with another woman)
•Why did she have to be so young and he so old? Fucking hell, she is the same age as his niece!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ARGH so fucking annoyed – I would never had read this story if I had known about the age gap



Overall Feeling:
I feel disgusted and need to have a shower...disgusting filth of a romance and so wrong on so many different levels





If I could give this minus scores I would but I just want to erase it from my memory

[❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

༺**Complimentary Copy**༺Provided by the author
"M. Robinson" exchange for an honest review..Thank you!!



TITLE: El Diablo
SERIES: (The Devil, #1)
AUTHOR: M. Robinson
GENRE: CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
CHAPTERS: Prologue | 43 | Epilogue
RELEASE DATE: August 30th 2016

MY RATING: 5 STARS

★★★★★ DELICIOUSLY DIRTY, EMOTIONALLY RAW, KISSABLY DELICIOUS ★★★★★

Buddy read this with Sonya- ❥Chatterbooks book blog ❥



EL DIABLO: This kicks starts us off in the 'Prologue' yet again M.Robinson has cast her magic and I'm under her spell, the story grips you as soon as you start reading that very first page, as you progress further into it trepidation courses through your body.

PART 1: From a young age Alejandro was groomed to take over the family business. We're introduced to fourteen year old Martinez, one of life's hardest lessons to be learnt having one of the most feared mob bosses as his father came to a head when he had to prove he was his father's son by conducting his first kill, execution style. All in the name of protecting ones he loves.

Age fifteen "I lost my virginity to a whore, all because my father was proud of me for murdering a man”

“Protecting what’s mine without showing any weakness. Never backing down. It only took one wrong move in this life to end up with a bullet in your goddamn head.
Your enemies couldn’t hurt you if they didn’t know what you’re feeling. What you’re thinking.
It was the code of life.
A very thin fucking line between being dead, or alive.”



Chapter by chapter, we can see him getting dragged into the dark side of mob life more and more as his birthdays progress.

How far will one man go to protect the ones he loves?

My father had his dirty hands in everything from drugs to guns to clubs.
He was the definition of organized crime, and there was very little that he didn’t own and operate. Politicians, police, FBI agents, they were all corrupt and all in his pocket.
Not a damn thing could be traced back to him. 
He’d built a motherfucking empire on nothing but shady-ass shit.

What was supposed to be a happy day of celebrations turned into a bloody massacre, a tinted out SUV headed right for them, rifles at the ready.

"NO!" I shouted with everything in me as the sound of shots ricocheted off metal and glass, ringing as screams echoed in the alley.
Bullets flying everywhere, decorating the car with holes.



Chapter twelve pushes us into the dark, gritty, emotional side of mob life at its worst. "At that moment, I would have sold my soul to the Devil” Martinez will never be the same from this point onwards, seeking revenge uppermost in his mind. "My heart was never going to mend itself.”



This has definitely put me through the paces reading this, moments of pure rage, swooning, sadness, love, gasps, disbelief.

PART 2: We're introduced to six year old Lexi, spoken in her own words, describing what life is like living within a household where she's neglected, a step father whose rarely at home and a mother that sleeps all day and into the night who never leaves the house.

The only time she's in her happy bubble is when she's ballet dancing, nothing can touch her.

Years go by with no change within the household, until everything changes. Left alone to be raised by her step father.

“Now I'm alone with the monster almost daily.
Except I once used to call him…
My stepdad.”

When fifteen year old Lexi & Martinez finally meet you get the feeling that she is going to be his undoing, she'll be the one that will bring him to his knees. He just doesn't know it yet!!

“All little girls wanted a Prince Charming.
A knight in shining fucking armor.
Little did she know, I was the villain in this story.”



Years go by until these two are re-acquainted, he may want to keep his distance from her but from afar he's always looking out for her, protecting her. He comes across so hard, cold, callous but now and then one of his layers gets chipped away and we see a glimpse of the young Martinez boy he used to be.

PART 3: 5 Years Later

Killing a man in cold blood, to save her

Her protector
Her saviour

“This was bad.
The blaze in her eyes.
The feel of her skin.
The smell of her scent all around me.
I. Was. Fucked.”

Martinez is a profoundly guarded man with layer upon layer, who lives a treacherous life filled with enemies from all quarters who will stop at nothing to see him ten feet under. As the years progressed he grew into a very powerful man, more so than his father ever was, never show weakness, never allow anyone close, never show love, he became known on the streets as El Diablo.

"She needed to stay away from me. I wanted her to stay away from me. I should've made her leave, but it didn’t matter because I couldn’t stay away from her any longer. And in the end…I didn’t want to.”



This author fast became one of my favourites and never disappoints. Highly recommend this book!!

[Lo Bookfrantic · Rating 5 out of 5]

***FULL REVIEW TO POST ON TOUR DATE***

TALKING ABOUT ANGST ON STEROIDS...SHITTTTTT

Good lord i barely made it alive..this fucking book gawd...i cried, screamed, i hated, i loved, i had an ulcer but i made it alive LOL...what a trip





Shhluts Foresome F(BR) CC, Liz, & War; I'm the angel on the right ready to please El Diablo or fight him whatever haha



Covergasm alert!!



I was ruthless.
I was feared.
I had sacrificed. Myself. Her. Everything...

Living in a world where I was worth more dead than alive was a choice. I was a bad man, never claimed to be anything else. I’ve done things I’m not proud of. Seen things that can’t be unseen. I’ve caused pain that I can’t undo.
It was all my choice.
Every decision.
Every order.
Right and wrong never mattered.
Until her.
She was under my protection, until she became my obsession.
But who was going to save her...

From. Me. The devil himself.

Fate brought us together. Destiny destroyed us.


STANDALONE. New Adult Contemporary Romance: Full length novel.

[✰ Liz ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

~4.5 DEVIL STARS~

"I knew I was going to Hell. I just never imagined...I would be taking her with me."

El Diablo is a dark and delicious treat full of action, suspense, angst, intrigue, passion, and dark romance. The highly anticipated story of Alejandro the ruthless mob boss certainly does not disappoint! We met Alejandro in the final book of the Good Ol' Boy Series Crave Me. Although El Diablo can be read as a stand-alone, I was so happy to have read the entire Good Ol' Boy Series because it gave me a full perspective on the arc of these characters!

"Actions will always speak louder than words."

Alejandro wasn't always "the devil". As a son, brother, and friend, he begins his coming of age just trying to learn how to be a man. Despite the tenderness and goodness in his mom, it doesn't take him long to be swept up into the family business. His domineering father takes hold of him and thrusts him deep into the darkness of the crime world. Despite his father's best efforts to keep Alejandro deeply entrenched in the dark, his son still manages to find love. He loves his sister passionately and falls in love with a sweet girl from the "wrong side of the tracks". Although he tries to protect them both from the evils surrounding them, there is nothing that can stop the evil to come! But even "the devil" deserves some goodness in his life, right?

"Contemplating if this was the life that I was destined to lead. No family. No love. No God. Only darkness.

"She was like the forbidden fruit I wanted to fuck."

After losing his first love, years pass, and Alejandro continues to grow hard. The darkness continues to swallow him whole, and it seems that there is nothing that can pull him out. It is the bright eyes of a ballerina named Lexi that seem to spin his world off of its axis and causes him to grasp a glimmer of light. And yet, with so many secrets, missed opportunities, and gut-wrenching moments spent between the two it seems that maybe Alejandro will never be able to escape the dark.

"I was already going straight to fucking Hell. I just didn't want to drag her into the inferno with me."

"Placing her leg back on the lowest barre. I eased into her opening from behind, stretching her slowly, gently, letting her adjust to my size. Rubbing her breasts, stimulating her clit at the same time. Playing her body like it was made just for me."

Told in dual POV, El Diablo spans several agonizing decades. As the plot unfolds, there were numerous twists and turns that left me shaking my head and clutching my Kindle for dear life. Alejandro's evolution was painful and full of heartbreak. I felt that his character development was explored quite expertly, and every aspect of that's man persona held me captive the entire read. Lexi was a perfect counterpart for Alejandro. I was quite impressed with her tenacity and spunky spirit. Together they share an explosive ride full of multiple moments of joy, passion, and gut-wrenching heartbreak. There was a point in the process that I was more than ready for a resolution! Needless to say, this is not a read for the faint of heart. There were certain shifts in the plot that were quite shocking and yet; I feel like M. Robinson is always 100% committed to seeing her characters through. The more pain these characters experience the sweeter the joy at the end of the journey. I thoroughly enjoy the writing style of this author and as always, the steam factor is off the chart. Although Alejandro is a mob man, it is imperative to note that the story's main focus is on the journey of Alejandro and his quest for allowing himself to be loved.



Overall, I cannot recommend El Diablo enough. With its addictive blend of sexy romance, action, intrigue, and dark undertones, it will keep you entertained the entire read. In true M. Robinson style, integrated into the story she offers a sliver of what is to come. With an MC Series in the works, no doubt there will be many more winning reads to come from the "Queen of Angst". When M. Robinson is writing, my Kindle is always ready and waiting!

*This is a BR with my SHHLUTTY SISTA'S CC, WAR, LOYDA, and SUEBEE!*



*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!*

For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[warhawke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone Book 1 from El Diablo series
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:




Alejandro Martinez grew up as a mob prince. As the son of the feared leader, he was groomed to take over the empire. But crime life quickly took its toll when the people he loved were taken away from him one by one. He earned the name El Diablo from being ruthless and heartless, locking his heart from emotion until a young girl wormed herself into his life.

Lexi learned to be independent since a very young age. With a useless mother, she redirected her love to ballet instead. It became a passion that provided her with an escape from hard life. When an opportunity knocked, she needed help to make her dream come through and it took her to El Diablo's doorstep, never realizing how it would change her life.



Martinez had a brief appearance in the last book of Good 'Ol Boys series, Crave Me. His persona as a mob boss was mysterious and intriguing, and made you want to know more about him. Now is his chance to shine and shine he did.

I never apologized for who I was or my actions.

Alejandro exuded power and influence since he was old enough to hold a gun. His father only ever gave tough love and that's how he lived his life as an adult. I'm aware a lot of people have the love/hate thing on him, but for me, I love him for being him. I guess because villains make my heart swell in pride hahaha!



I like how spunky and fiery Lexi was especially when she was much younger. She wasn't afraid to go head to head with The Devil. However, I did question some of the things she did - as in she accepted certain scenarios too easily considering how she was supposed to be headstrong.

Even God wasn't safe from me. I was a ruthless motherfucker who didn’t take no for an answer. No one crossed me and lived to tell the tale. I had no respect or loyalty to anyone but myself.

I've always love stories that spanned years because we can see the characters evolution as long as they stayed true to the essence of their personality. I appreciate that the book has a lot of things going on and how things were wrapped up, even though none of the revelations surprised me.

One thing I wish differently is for the story to have more "showing" than "telling". I am also not a fan of muddled POV - one character constantly interpreting the other characters words/actions/emotions. I rather see it from the other character's first person perspective.

“Don’t knock on the devil’s door, sweetheart, and expect him not to answer.”

El Diablo is a story of two individuals whose life crossed and took them into a journey of happiness and heartache. The storyline was wrapped up and primed for the next book in the series.


⚜ ♆ ⚜ . . . (F)BR With The Shhluts . . . ⚜ ♆ ⚜
Comprised of Javigina Twinsie CC, CryBaby Loyda, Lonestar Liz and Queen SuSu :D




For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[Alex is The Romance Fox · Rating 2 out of 5]

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE ARE SPOILERS AHEAD

I am really struggling to write a review on this book.....
Most of the readers of GR have loved El Diablo but for me.........it just didn't do it!!! There were more things I disliked about the whole book than I actually liked.

Now don't get me wrong....I don't mind reading "dark" stories and I was looking forward to finding out what all those 4/5 stars reviews were all about.

The first part of the book was okay....I felt for the trauma that the two main characters went through their childhood. But suddenly I began to get totally annoyed with everyone and everything.

What I hated the most :

The hero, Alejandro is in his 40's and the heroine, Lexi is 24 years old.
The hero sleeps with both mother and daughter!!!!
I absolutely detested the manner in which Alejandro treated Lexi.........he has sex with another woman knowing that Lexi can hear the sounds....and he professes that he loves Lexi!!!! PLEASE!!!!

“The fact that I caused Lexi pain, when in reality all I wanted to do was to provide her with comfort.”

How sick is this guy!!!!
Alejandro treats Lexi without respect - he stalks her....he messes with her head....he's totally disgusting!!! I HATED THE F@@@@@@@$###.........And he never changes the way he's towards her....what the hell does Lexi want with someone like him!!!!!

I did, however, like Lexi....in fact, she was the only character I had any feelings for. She was strong and I liked her sassy attitude...but I just so wished she would have made Alejandro grovel and bow.....but no!!!

Anyway, to end off my ranting and raving - for me....it was just under an ok read...all because of Lexi............

[⊱✿⊰ Alicia ⊱✿⊰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 FANFUCKINTASTIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Stars

OMG, I loved this book sooooooooooooooooo much. This is going to be a really hard review to write because...............


This superbly written book had everything I love in a book, intrigue, drama, suspense, twists and a dark side all of its own.

This was not a mafia/mob or cartel book as I thought going into it, it was the story of one mans fate in life. It starts when he is 15 and finishes when his in his 50s, so you get to read all the life changing events that turn Alejandro into El Diablo (the devil). Some of these life changing events are caused by his choices but others are just plain heartbreaking.


I was a little worried as the first 30% for me just seemed to drag and took a while to read, I can see how some people I know DNF. Now after reading the entire book the first 30% is really important to the story and the rest of the book I just did not want to put down.

I will not go into the characters much as that will give away the plot. I was sure I had parts of this sussed out but I was wrong thank god *LOL*. I will say that I loved Lexi, her strength and patience were amazing.

I like my books to have sex in them and the hotter the better but I was so lost in this story that I didn't mind the lack of action. I was getting a little worn down by the continual push and pull, will they or will they not it nearly had me pulling my hair out. When they finally do (properly) at 80% mind you, it was totally worth it and I think the wait even made it better.

So wrapping this messy review up I want to say that this book has left me satisfied in the best possible way and I would gladly recommend this book to anyone.

[Just Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

*****4.5 STARS*****
For my unfiltered review... https://prettymessreading.wordpress.c...

Let me take the time to introduce my future baby daddy… Alejandro Martinez aka El Diablo (The Devil). I am aware that commits murders in his spare time but that doesn’t stop my love for him, if anything, it me love him more.



Let me start by saying that M. Robinson did an amazing job at building the characters in this book. I don’t know how she did it, but she did. So, bravo!!!

Before Martinez became El Diablo, he was Alejandro Martinez, son of one of the most notorious crime bosses on the east coast. His father was also the devil but over the years Alejandro would become more ruthless than his father.

Years of violence, drugs, whores and more turned Alejandro into the devil himself. He didn’t completely mind becoming the devil, he just didn’t want to take his first love with him, Sophia.

See, I also knew I was going to Hell.

I just never imagined…

I would be taking her with me. – Martinez

Sophia was everything he ever wanted, she was to be his wife. She was to like his mother. The big question was, could Sophia be a ride or die type female like his mother? Even his father questioned if Sophia was about that life.

“Do you think she’s strong enough to handle our lifestyle? Your future?”

There was something I found beautiful about Sophia but I never got the vibe that she was for him. I don’t know why, but I just didn’t. I wanted to. Over time Alejandro’s dad came to accept their relationship and eventually their engagement. Sophia loved that his father opened up to the idea of him and even began to like his father as a person, stupid girl.

“Look at me,” I ordered in a harsh tone. “He’s the Devil, Sophia. He’s the goddamn Devil. I never want you thinking he’s anything but.”

“And you? What does that make you?”

“Next in line,” I replied without hesitation.

But Alejandro wasn’t feeling that. He needed Sophia to know that his father was a horrible and one day he would be too.

“Are you going to change when you take over?”

“You shouldn’t ask questions you really don’t want the answers to. I am who I am, Sophia.”

“Have you killed anyone else?”

“What I do is none of your concern.”

“So that’s a yes.”

“It’s not a no.”

Sophia should have know what she was getting into considering she was present the first time Alejandro killed a man. But some women are just stupid and she fell into that category. At the end of the book we find out just how stupid she really was.

When Sophia abandons Alejandro when he needs her the most, that’s when shit really hits the fan. Alejandro disappears and El Diablo is truly born. But you know what? El Diablo is 10 times sexier that Alejandro and Alejandro was pretty damn fine! So yeah, that devil could have me anyway he wanted.



So this is the point where we stop discussing weak bitches and bring in a true “ride or die” female, Miss Lexi herself. Don’t get me wrong, at times Lexi is just as stupid as Sophia but in a completely different way. Lexi’s vice was her unwavering love for Martinez, that love would eventually turn her world inside out. What’s worse is that she took the emotional pain he caused her for over 10+ years.

I’m going to tell you right now, there is no way in hell I would ever wait for someone to give me their all for over 10+ years. Fuck that. You get 2 years max and that’s with me being generous, very generous. You better have some bomb ass sex for me to even consider waiting.

From what I read, Martinez could put it down in that department. I might have given him 3 years.

Good God Almighty!

Martinez and Lexi’s love story was H.O.T. hot! Pure fire!



By the time Lexi comes into the picture, Martinez was already one of the most feared men on the east coast. His ties to the underground world earned him the name, El Diablo and for good fucking reason.

Even God wasn’t safe from me. I was a ruthless motherfucker who didn’t take no for an answer. No one crossed me and lived to tell the tale. I had no respect or loyalty to anyone but myself – El Diablo

You didn’t want to cross this man.

Even the devil had family and Martinez was no different. He family was his weakness, one he tried to protect by keeping them away from him but even that wasn’t enough. Martinez would eventually have to bring his family in closer than he ever wanted. He had to raise his niece. But even that had it’s boundaries and limitations.

Although he had to raise his niece, he refused to allow her to love him. He wouldn’t even give the little girl a hug. He was turning into a father that resembled his own, cold and empty. He was unable to show his niece love so she wouldn’t love him back. But he loved the shit out of her.

…it was easier for her to see me as a monster. I never wanted her to love me. I didn’t deserve it.

She didn’t deserve it.

The two women who loved me the most were both six feet under. There was no way in hell I would provoke fate again. – Martinez

I can’t say I blame him for keeping his niece, Briggs at arms length but it was difficult to read about. I hurt for him and hurt even more for Briggs. Everyone needs a family to love and neither of them had that anymore.

It was so sad. Oh, the feels.

I guess that what happens when your raised with a father like Martinez’s. His father was one fucked up individual. I mean he was proud of his son just for murdering a man.

I spent the rest of the night fucking her in every possible position known to man. i lost my virginity to a whore, all because my father was proud of me for murdering a man. If that wasn’t fucked up…

Then I don’t know what is. – Martinez

But Lexi saw past El Diablo, she was able to see Alejandro, the man inside. She was willing to fight for this man, a man that she felt so connected to. She stood by his side even when he didn’t realize it. Crazy thing was… he was always by her side. (You’re going to have to read the book to see what I’m talking about.)

“As much as I tried to show you my Hell, you were more than willing to burn right along with me.” – Martinez
Lexi became Martinez’s secret obsession, which was dangerous for a man like him. If anyone know how he really felt about her, he knew they would use her to get what they wanted from him. He wasn’t having that. So, he had to keep his feelings in check. OMG, did he. He was one disciplined man, that’s for damn sure.

She needed to stay away from me. That was the right thing to do. I was no good for her.

She looked at me as a savior, her hero, when I was anything but those things. – Martinez

But El Diablo didn’t work that way.

Saying sorry was a sign of weakness, and I couldn’t bring myself to say the tow words. To show her that I had a weak side, buried under all the bullshit. I really wanted to beg for her forgiveness, over and over again for what I’d done. Not just for tonight but all the other times she mentioned. But in the end, I was who I was, not even Lexi could change that.

I just wasn’t made that way. – El Diablo

There are so many twists and turns in this book, it’s crazy! I loved every bit of it!




Follow all my crazy….
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/prettymessr...

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/prettymessre...

Twitter https://twitter.com/prettymessread

[Dee Montoya · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Sinful Stars*****

(ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review)

Author M. Robinson; the undisputed queen of angst is back with another heart pounding novel, that will claim your heart from the moment you read the prologue. El Diablo will set your heart on fire, he will own you, hurt you, and love you like no other...



Alejandro Martinez is the heir of a powerful Colombian drug cartel. From a young age he was being molded into becoming the ruthless leader that would follow into his father's footsteps. For The Martinez men, family is everything, they would do anything to protect their own, and the family's honor.

From a young age he had to accept that he could never have a normal life. He was forced into a dark and gritty world where respect was earn with blood. His ruthless nature made him push the envelope, creating destruction around those who would dare to cross him, becoming a dangerous man everybody feared, and gaining the name, El Diablo, which means The Devil.

Lexi grew up in a home where her mom was trapped inside her house due to an acute depression, and a stepfather who was always away working. All Lexie aver dreamed about was dancing, and for her mom to wake up one day, and not be sad anymore. But life had other plans for her, she would discover pain and disappointment from a very young age. Lexie had to create an armor, a tough and sassy exterior to protect herself from the outside world. Dancing became everything to her after her world crumbled.

Lexie met the man people call El Diablo when she was just a kid, and even though she was intimidated by him she never let it show. Years later when she needed help to accomplish her dream, she went straight to the gates of hell looking for the only person who could help her, El Diablo.



Years later Lexie is living her dream of dancing in a well renowned company, when trouble comes knocking on her door once again, and Martinez is the dark knight who saves her.

Alejandro is in charge of protecting Lexie. He has to fight with everything he has not to sin with the sexy woman who he's known for years, and is suddenly now sleeping in the room next to his. Is not an easy task for him, she's blossomed into a sensual woman, and every time she dances to the rhythm of music, he's mesmerized by her. How long can he resist the allure of her body?

Not long, but Alejandro Martinez doesn't do hearts and flowers, and everyone around him is in constant danger. Can Lexie deal with everything that comes with sharing "El Diablo's" bed?

Blood, passion and intense heartache will be something well known by Alejandro and Lexie. But their love is something indestructible, it will become their salvation, and their demise.

Since Alejandro is Briggs's uncle ( The heroine from Crave Me) all the characters from The Good 'Ol Boys series make an appearance, but this book is a complete standalone, is not necessary to read any previous books, to understand and enjoy this novel.

Reading El Diablo was an experience like no other. This anti-hero made me love him, and hate him with equal intensity. He owned my heart and haunted my dreams. He was an unapologetic villain, a dark angel, with a delicious hint of a latin flavor, and I wanted him to devour me.

Standing ovation to author M. Robinson for always delivering exactly what I want, and need, even if she has to rip my heart to shreds in the process.

If you are someone who enjoys passionate reads, with extreme angst, and are not afraid to get your heart shattered, YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK!!!!!!

Peligroso, sensual, e inolvidable... Dangerous, sensual, and unforgettable...

My El Diablo music playlist:
*Sympathy For The Devil by The Rolling Stones
*Any Other Name by Thomas Newman
*Broken-Hearted Girl by Beyonce
*Fighter by Christina Aguilera
*I Hate You, I love You by Gnash

[Elfina Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was a ten star read but regrettably could only give five!

Diablo lived up to the hype and the well deserved reviews, comments, and gifs my Goodread’s friends raved about. Set in true cartel, mafia fashion. Alejandro played his villainous role as the devil perfectly! He was everything I embodied in an asshole. When I hated him, OMG I was ready to commit book murder. Yes there is such a thing. It's called chucking the tablet down and being very inventive over his death, nothing was off limits! I could practically hear the Godfather intro as the scenes vividly flashed in my head.

The women in the novel were no whimpering violets, they were strong despite various circumstances, showing true grit. A few I wanted to throttle. You know never let a good crisis go to waste, kinda thing. Complex plot, unexpected twists and heat? Girl you better crank the AC up because your undies will practically melt right off.... scorching hot!

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

At the risk of sounding like a broken record I'm gonna say again, this one blew me away!! Before I started reading it I was mentally preparing myself for the ride and plus I didn't read a lot of reviews just a couple.....but then I saw the word anti hero and I knew I had to read it. I Love anti heroes, even though they're kinda tricky because for me there has to be a good reason or explanation why, and a believable redemption of the anti hero. This one was absolutely fantastic Alejandro Martinez was the true definition of an AH.

"El Diablo" is the story of Alejandro and Lexi, this two were doom right from the start. It's told from dual POV and it starts when Alejandro, is about fifteen, his the son a powerful drug lord and right off the bat we know his destiny is to follow his father's foot steps. So we get to see Alejandro grow up to be a ruthless man just like his father but more importantly we see why, through his losses, that were so painful for him. Then we meet Lexi from when she's a little girl to when she meets Alejandro, I have to mention Alejandro is almost twice Lexi's age. But nothing happened between them till Lexi was a mature woman. So they meet a few times over the years till finally they come together.



The relationship between this two was intense and yes, Alejandro, I'm not gonna lie was a huge jerk and was cruel with Lexi at times, never physically though. He would run hot and cold leaving me with chills, but regardless I loved this man. Knowing from the beginning what he went through helped me, so much to understand him, he was ruthless but so passionate and protective and so dam sexy. Lexi was a good match for him, she always felt an attraction to him, a connection. Coming from a bad childhood herself her only salvation had been her love of ballet dancing. She took a lot from Alejandro but I never thought of her as a weak h, I liked the she sassed him and fought for him. There sexual relationship was like foreplay, it wasn't insta it had a built up that it just made hotter, imo.



This book was so fantastic I loved the writing, the story was fast paced, full of twists and turns. The last couple of chapters had my throat dry up, because I literally had my mouth fully open form shock!!
The only reason it didn't hit the five star was because the last time this two were separated was too long for me and I felt like there was character that really didn't need to be added, imo. But other than that I love it and the epilogue was perfect!

"Te amo, cariño, por siempre"


This was my first book by this author and I'm looking forward to reading the spinoff of this book with creed and Mia's story! <3

[Sonya ♕Chatterbooks book blog♕ · Rating 4 out of 5]

★★★★4 Diablo Stars★★★★





I have been practically chomping at the bit to read this story and like everyone else, I was wondering how did Alejandro Martinez become the infamous El Diablo? How many bodies did he rack up on his journey to being one the most feared men of his time and who was the woman that brought him to his knees.

This was the story of how money,power, and a forbidden love became the ultimate demise of the one and only Alejandro Martinez.

Being the heir to a Drug Empire, Martinez knew the rules of the game. His father was feared, and carrying on that tradition, he became the same way and so much more. He became powerful and well respected in his own right but make no mistake,if you cross him, certain body parts will be floating in the nearest river. They don't call him the devil for nothing and after reading this, I knew why.






Lexi hasn't had a good childhood. Having a mother that was depressed and not being involved as much as she should, she learned from a very young age how to take care of herself as best as she could. But soon tragedy entered in her life and what little sense of normalcy she had, quickly became a thing of the past. But then she came face to face with the devil himself and her world was suddenly set on fire.

"I'm in the business of making things go wrong. I'm not your prince charming, and once you realize that, it would make things alot easier."

On you? "

"No. You". I know who I am. It's you that doesn't".

I'm going to admit and say that Martinez tested my patience. As much as I LOVED him, I HATED some of his descisions with Lexi. Yes he took over the family bussiness but he made that Empire into what it was. Every deal, every hit, you knew it came from him and messing with the people he loved will only get you a closed casket.

But the moment you get a glimpse of his human side, you know that falling in love with a man like him might not be such a bad thing. I lived for those moments, I craved his love as much as Lexi did but I also craved his darkness.



If you think you know what's going to happen, think again. The stomach turning twists and the heart palpating angst will have you in a battle of good vs evil. Martinez and Lexi's story is not one to be missed.

*Arc kindy provided I'm exchange for an honest review.

[CC · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alejandro Martinez was destined to fulfill the path already chosen for him leading to a life of crime, corruption, greed, lies and tragedy. At 20 years old, he was already feared and known as El Diablo, but knowing the destruction and pain his family caused, Alejandro vows to protect what remains in his life despite the consequences. Learning to be a “Martinez” at a very young age, Alejandro shields his heart but as decades pass, he begins to question whether loneliness is his fate or a fool’s choice.

“This is what we do, hijo. We protect what’s ours any means necessary. No. Matter. What. Family comes first.”

Having a childhood marred by neglect, Lexi learned at a young age to fend for herself and to take joy in the art of ballet. In trying to be independent and follow her dream, Lexi applies for a job at an establishment owned by Martinez. Exuding his influence in subtle ways, Alejandro cannot turn his back on Lexi. After feeling a strong connection with Alejandro, the tension builds but neither could have imagined how their futures would blend in so many ways.

“I want you to come on my fingers, cariño, I want to see your face get flushed, your breathing hitch. I want to feel your pussy pulsate so fucking hard it pushes my fingers out of your sweet little hole.”

As Alejandro is a conflicted man suffering an incredible amount of despair, he steadfastly forges ahead to lead the Martinez family legacy. After vowing to never open his heart to anyone again, Lexi tests Alejandro, and while it’s his nature to protect and love, he can’t give what he wants despite her wholehearted acceptance of Alejandro’s dual personas.

“I warned you. I told you I don’t know how to love. I ordered you to stay away from me, time and time again. I’m not the man you think I am. I never was.”

“The good and bad. Heaven and hell. Every part of him. I took what I could get. Every last ounce of him.”

Alejandro is a man of deep passion whether he is showing his gentle or vile side and I like how he wavered between these warring factions within himself. The tender moments were so warm which served to reinforce his true nature because if he was as ruthless as his father, Alejandro would have been a very different man. By the end, I felt comfortable with his choice of possible salvation with Lexi but parts of “the how” didn’t seem to completely coalesce with his character. However, it didn’t deter from the impact of Alejandro’s journey and the arc of his character development.

As for Lexi, I admired her resilience and ability to balance the positive and negative in her life. By choosing Alejandro and his lifestyle, Lexi was fully aware of the risks involved yet she was willing take a chance whether it lasted for a brief moment or for more time than she could imagine. To me, Lexi proved she was a match for Alejandro.

Also, the secondary characters were vital to supporting the failures and successes of the main characters and the ongoing plot. For those familiar with the The Good Ol’ Boys series, being reunited with some friendly faces will be an added plus. I would like to know more about Alejandro’s friend, Leo, in the future.

From the onset of El Diablo, an epic tone is cast upon the Martinez family that unfolds into a richly developed plot spanning many years and a multitude of dimensional characters. With engaging prose, M. Robinson successfully captures a story steeped love, violence, passion, redemption and friendship. I highly recommend!




*An ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.


* This was a (F)BR with Hawkey, Liz, Loyda and Sue! *

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book, I swear it’s something. Let me start by saying it was completely addictive, from the beginning I was intrigued and wanted to know Alejandro Martinez’s story. This man is insane, ruthless and dominating. He will stop at nothing to get what he wants, it’s that level of intensity that gave him the nickname, The Devil.

When we first meet Alejandro he is just a child and we see how this young boy turned into the monster he is now. I will be honest, there were so many times I was reading this story I actually felt for him. He was just an innocent child who was molded and manipulated by his father. Then he became El Diablo and my compassionate went out the window. It's hard to feel for this ruthless man. He owns every situation he is in and is feared by everyone.

We meet Lexi when she is a young girl too, but it’s years later when Alejandro is an adult because she is years younger than him. Lexi is a beautiful young girl who loves to ballet. Her mother suffers from depression and refuses to leave the house. She is a neglectful parent to Lexi, but Lexi loves her mother nonetheless. When her mother dies her life changes, too. She becomes a victim of abuse and spends years just trying to survive.

This story is really all about how little things completely change and shape these characters lives. Lexi and Alejandro meet when she is fifteen by random chance and neither forget each other. It’s years later before they run into each other again, but this connection is always present between them. I actually really liked Martinez and Lexi together. He was hard on her, but I understood is motivation. In the end, he just wanted to protect her and sometimes that meant pushing her away.

This story is crazy, crazy, crazy, crazy. It’s also pretty over the top. I swear that last 10% I was literally saying WTF out loud. It was crazy, but again it had me turning the page. This entire story is a page turner. It’s fast paced, angsty and dark. Their relationship is unexpected, but the connection and unwavering feelings are genuine. I don't think I will be forgetting these plot twists anytime soon!

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[BleuBelle · Rating 1 out of 5]

If I've had the energy to write an review I would. But I don't. Reading this story totally left me with nothing. I have so many things to say about this book, but that would fill out pages. So I'm not going to do it.

The important things are: I HATE this book. I was really disappointed. The Hero isn't hero-worthy. Too many bad things are happening in this book. HEA was there but I didn't read it to the end, because I had no interest AT ALL. Lexi and Alejandro can do what they want, don't want to know!!

Hero is an asshole. He's hurting everyone he loves. And why? Because he thinks he's "protecting" them. He's a cheater. A coward. Immature. He breaks Lexis heart over and over and over again. So many times, I can't count. He cheated. He has sex with other women, the same night Lexi was nearly raped (Lexie hears all of it, because he takes the one-night-stand home and his room is right next to Lexis). He's going hot and cold all the time. I wouldn't know where his feelings are. That's emotional abuse for me. Because he wont let Lexi go. The first time they have sex (Lexi is a virgin and has history of abuse) he treated her like a whore. His words! Lexi didn't deserve any of this.

Heroine was ok. I really liked her. But I wanted to shake some sense into her, because she let the hero walk all over her. She was giving and trying and forgiving. And what did he do? Not one damn thing.

The scene near the end where Lexi goes back to his apartment after finding all this tabloids with other women? And then finding Alejandro in bed with another women? I felt sick. Because I could hear my heart breaking for Lexi. I never felt so disgusted while reading a book.

The ending? Well... Alejandro explains all his actions to Lexi. He wants her forgiveness. Here's the first time he apologizes and tells her he loves her. But for me it was a too little too late. But I'm not Lexi (thank God). Then there is a 3 month separation and Lexi goes back to him with ultimatums. Because she's pregnant with his daughter. And what does Alejandro do? Decides that now that she's pregnant with his baby and didn't tell him before (because she thought he was dead), she has to be with him even if she wouldn't want it. And to hell with the ultimatums. He doesn't care about that. He just wants to f*** her.

So I skipped the epilogue. Don't want to know.

This seems really harsh, but that's how I feel about the book. I just wanted a hero whom I could believe in. He doesn't has to be perfect, far from it. But he should have some "swoon" worthy points. And I didn't get to experience this with Alejandro. Not one time!

[Snow · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 "all consuming" stars

Impossible, complex, complicated, painful, trecherous, all consuming LOVE between two people who were pre-destined to meet, fall, shatter, hurt each other, then equally so find each other again through a time span of a lifetime...

The cruel crime boss Alejandro Martinez who was born into it, groomed and hardened by the merciless rules of a drug lord's life he was brought up in, turned him into a notorious force to recon known as El Diablo...heartless, cold, cruel, feared...
he left his heart and soul in the midst of trecherous world...
he fought against his hollow shell of a human body, finding the ways to care in his own twisted and fucked up way for her...

Lexi, the one he could not stay way from without hurting her in every possible way...
until he broke the Devil and brought him on his knees.

Told in a dual point of view...these characters bring you the most tragically written destinies that will grip you by the heart, twist it hard, break it, crumble it and stepped on it, only to bring you an absolution through forgivness...was it deserved? I still wonder about that and I will leave it hanging in the open...as my own personal HELL.

"I don't know if I can forgive you, Alejandro.
You broke my heart more than once.
It's just been too much.
I don't think I can get past it.
I don't think I can forgive you this time."

"Take all the time you need,
but please come to me."

And there' s always more...and for that more i need my on recluse time...

But I have these lyrics to back my feelings up about Alejandro/El Diablo and Lexi...

"Don't Wanna Lose You Now"

I never thought that I would lose my mind
That I could control this
Never thought that I'd be left behind
That I was stronger than you, baby
Girl if only I knew what I've done
You know, so why don't you tell me
And I, I would bring down the moon and the sun
To show how much I care

[Chorus:]
Don't wanna lose you now
Baby I know we can win this
Don't wanna lose you now
No no, or ever again

I've got this feeling you're not gonna stay
It's burning within me
The fear of losing
Of slipping away
It keeps getting closer, baby
Whatever reason to live that I've had
My place was always beside you
And I wish that I didn't need you so bad
Your face just won't go away...

Don't wanna lose to loneliness
Girl I know we can win
Don't wanna lose to emptiness, oh no
Never again

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2jeg...

A mind/time/heart consuming story of love.

*still fighting to catch a coherent thought in her head*

ARC WON ON Shh...SUMMER BUZZ BOOK GIVEAWAY!!!!

For more info and reviews visit

[Angie - Angie's Dreamy Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

*** 3.5 Stars ***

WHOA. That was an angstfest.
Utterly addicting.
Definitely a book for dark readers who love an anti-hero.

I would also say, CONTENT warning: violence, rape, lots of dark thing happening here. Shocking stuff.... hahahaha!

I'm still trying to sort my thoughts. I don't really know how I feel. I just.. IDK. I hated Martinez. And just when I thought I could like him, he ruined it for me. While I could sympathize with his plight, I couldn't connect to his crazy. He just ... IDK. And that twist, I can't get over it. Hahahahaha! I JUST CAN'T GET OVER IT. WHOA!

One thing I will say is that no matter how many times I put it down, no matter how many times I said, enough, I can't handle this man anymore, I kept reading. I want to stand up and applaud M. Robinson for gut punching me repeatedly. Addicting for sure.

I would absolutely recommend this book to the people who LOVE a dark book.

[Linathebookaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

{ARC kindly provided by M. Robinson in exchange for an honest review.}




Title: El Diablo
Author: M. Robinson
Category: Mafia, Romance
Series or Standalone: Standalone
POV: Dual
Plot: 5
Characters: 5
Scorching Level: 5
HEA: Not telling

Jesus Christ! I feel like my heart was put through the grinder!!! What an amazing story.
M. Robinson has outdone herself with this book. The raw emotions, the heart-breaking twists and turns made this book a masterpiece. There is pain, danger, love, passion, fear and torment.
The author puts her characters through hell but they come out stronger than before, vibrating with life and determination.
The book is very intricate and in its essence it is a story about love and family. The storyline is built slowly and executed in utter perfection. The characters grow as the years pass and I loved how she developed the various storylines.
The book is about Alejandro Martinez, the son of a very powerful Colombian crime lord. The book has the feeling of an autobiography in the sense that we get to experience the feelings first hand from the hero's point of view. We get to meet the innocent Alejandro, the one with hopes and aspirations for a better future and then watch him transform into the man his father always wanted. We get to see his loss and pain as he grows up to become the one and only El Diablo.
Alone and ruthlessly determined to fulfill his destiny, he becomes cold and detached to anything and everyone that can be seen as a weakness.
We see him turn his back on love but can he survive without it?
I will not get into plot details because the book must be experienced without any knowledge but know this; the author has created one of her best heroes ever. Alejandro Martinez is a complex and multi-dimensional man who fights with who he is every second of his life. He is and breathes hell but he is not a demon. This man's journey will stay with me forever and this book is one of my favorites.
Do yourself a favor and do not miss this masterpiece. I highly recommend this. Let El Diablo take you on a journey that you won't ever forget.

5 Devilish Stars! I would give it more if I could.

[Wendy'sThoughts · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Rollercoaster Stars
* * * *
Keeping this short as so many others have done terrific reviews of this book... so good, it caused me to take the time to read it.

This is not for the faint of heart...It is exactly what is advertised...Ruthless behavior happening throughout the book. A crime family so destructive, no one is safe from its clutches.

Father corrupts son...
Sister fears with good reason what her brother is turning into...
A young man destroyed by his destiny and must learn how to survive and conquer it all...
or be eaten alive...

A girl taught from the start, life is unfair...
The beauty of ballet and the music her only escape...

These two cross paths.. and we ride through the decades of want, guilt, deceit, truths cloaked in lies and love... undying love...sometimes misguided...

An all-encompassing tale with a man who can be a savior and the devil himself. A woman who didn't flinch and turn her back on him...
Even when she should.

I enjoyed this for the most part..there was a point where it felt long but then picked up again in the end. This is a stand-alone, however there were enough hints about other characters from this to know another book will be coming. Worth the read.


El Diablo (The Devil, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
El Diablo II (The Devil, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
During the Summer of 2016, this blew up my feed...
Review after review praising the intensity...
The skill and plot...
And the undeniable sexual attraction of the Devil Himself...

Well, who am I to say no to such a temptation...
Not I...

El Diablo (The Devil, #1)

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[☮ mary · Rating 1 out of 5]

My short review would be it is : A very, very and I mean VERY long and pointless book !!
(warning double exclamation points galore to convey my irritable mood after reading this)
I cannot fathom how anyone would think this rambling story was any good. I don't know this "M. Robinson" but I sure as hell haven't read anything so lukewarm and dull in a long time !!

There are 40 plus chapters of utter bullsh*t between the MC, the supposedly hero & heroine don't even meet until chapter twenty something. Instead we can read about the "hero" sad family story and first love interest who turns out to be the heroine's mother #facepalm

Did I mention the huge ellipses in time which span from 3 to 10 years separation ? There is also a little flaw in the book structure: NO PLOT anywhere.

To recap :the main characters are spineless idiots who need therapy, so I'd recommend you Do not believe the hype. Please don't buy into the angsty dark romance blurb because you'll lose money and time on this flimsy idea of a romance !!

[Starr (AKA Starrfish) Rivers · Rating 2 out of 5]

Man, that was exhausting!! 2.5 stars rounded to 3. Nope, rounded down again to 2. Too many issues to be 3. I've graded better novels at 3.

Firstly, author, learn the difference between "lay" vs. "lie"! I hate it when writers get that wrong. Takes me all the way back to primary school English class, making me relive my teacher drilling it into all of us. Lay is the past form of lie. You LAY down on the bed, not LAID. Arrrrrgggghhhhhhh!



Second, what the hell is up with the time warping from page to page and paragraph to paragraph. No warning whatsoever, except you read mid-sentence - oh! 3 years just passed! 2 pages later, whiplash! Another 6 months passed! 3 chapters later, suddenly! Oops, 10 YEARS went by!!

WTF!!!!????



Third, when the main couple finally get together?? (btw, they don't even really "start" until he's 35 and she's 15) - she's like 40 and he's 60!

And I'm supposed to believe that he's still doing her right every night for hours on end (with the help of viagra, gotta be!). Look, I know there are 60+ year old HOT men out there. But people, the SKIN elasticity will NEVER be the same! Nor will the sex drive (sans medical help!) I get this is fiction, but unless he's a supernatural 60 year old who has the bod of a 20 year old, I can't help but to picture a REAL 60+ year old (albeit a handsome one) as I'm reading this! And it's NOT making me happy!

Fourth, I get why he is the way he is. And as a "darkish" mafia romance, there's gonna be ugly stuff. I actually like his hot and cold routine, it's realistic give his character. But this is also a romance book, and he PURPOSELY "cheats" on her at least twice. And makes sure she knows it, sees it, hears it. All in the name of pushing her away for her own good.

And I really just wanted her to be like: "fuck it, I'm done with your crazy ass, bipolar 50+ year-old hairy balls. I love ya, but I'm sick of the whiplash, and I have pride, so I'm showing you my saucy ass as I walk PERMANENTLY away from you.



And then he can die thinking of her and loving her regretting everything he did and she can throw a white rose on his coffin totally emotionless and numb because she's moved the fuck on.

Cuz THAT is what the devil deserves.

Grow a pair, woman!

BUT, that's not what happened. And even tho I am a die-hard romantic, and I do love my HEAs, the journey that led me to their HEA really desensitized me to the point that I just didn't care any more. I give the 2.5 stars for Alejandro and Lexi finally getting their HEA, but the rest of it... it's like watching a strange movie that never ends.

I doubt I'll read anything more by this author.

(Oh and see below how she switched voice between the characters mid paragraph in the middle of a chapter)

The experience of this book was like getting slapped left, right, left right, continuously until I plunked my head down on a solid surface in utter, numbing defeat.



I blame you, Cecile! For making me try this book cuz of the gorgeous cover! He really is the perfect model for El Diablo. 6'4", tanned, muscular, green eyes. But only when he was 20-40. Which unfortunately took up at most 1/3 of the book only.

[Alp]

DNF @57%

This was boring. The story moved sooooooooo slowly. I expected the hero to be dangerous, dark, and ruthless, but instead I got a melancholy moping man whose whining self-pity went on and on. He's too weak for my liking.

I can't say much about the heroine because she'd just appeared in the story at around 40% of the book. Much as I wanted to know more about her, I couldn't hold on anymore. This one wasn't for me.

I'm sorry.