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Crime Lord #3
Once a Crime Lord
It all ends here. It’s been two years since the Pyre family was ripped apart by a sadistic killer who will stop at nothing to take Gavin Pyre’s position as crime lord of the Las Vegas underworld. Lyla and Gavin’s relationship will be put to the ultimate test when her ex rolls into town and the killer decides to finish what he started by making his final play… This is a dark romance novel with triggers, violence, and mature themes that may make some readers uncomfortable.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2017
455 people are currently reading
1695 people want to read
About the author
Mia Knight
12 books2,750 followersMia is the author of the Crime Lord and Singed Series. She writes dark, contemporary romances that make you question your beliefs and leave you feeling drained and emotionally bereft. If you like your men dark with questionable morals and a possessive edge, you’ve come to the right place.
When Mia isn’t writing, she’s most likely on a road trip. She loves coffee, daydreaming, and the sound of rain storms. She is constantly shadowed by her dogs who don’t judge her when she laughs and cries with the voices in her head. Mia’s also a notorious hermit so please be patient if she doesn’t get back to you promptly.
You can follow her on Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mia-k...
When Mia isn’t writing, she’s most likely on a road trip. She loves coffee, daydreaming, and the sound of rain storms. She is constantly shadowed by her dogs who don’t judge her when she laughs and cries with the voices in her head. Mia’s also a notorious hermit so please be patient if she doesn’t get back to you promptly.
You can follow her on Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mia-k...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 331 reviews
October 7, 2018
5 Huge Stars
This was a fitting end to an awesome series.
Continuing the plot arc from the first two books, we were still on the hunt for the "Phantom" crime lord trying to usurp Gavin's hold on the Underworld. It ends with a flourish.
Granted, there was an element toward the end that I wasn't expecting and some might
find cheesy (), but I myself was totally on board.
Yes, yes, I know I rant against the cheesy in other reviews and champion them in others, but what can I say?
I'm moody with waffling standards.
Gavin was his usual brand of homicidal psychopath, my own personal favorite book dreamboat.
I know this is not some people's favorite form of fictional man meat, but crazy town just really does it for me for some reason.
I really liked how Lyla became a bit of a badass here too - and it was believable! - since Gavin had right hand man Blade (snort) training her since she returned in book one.
Anyway, no one will read this without reading the first two...and anyone who read the first two is going to read this if only to find out how it all ends, so this review is really moot.
But still, tada!
This was a fitting end to an awesome series.
Continuing the plot arc from the first two books, we were still on the hunt for the "Phantom" crime lord trying to usurp Gavin's hold on the Underworld. It ends with a flourish.
Granted, there was an element toward the end that I wasn't expecting and some might
find cheesy (), but I myself was totally on board.
Yes, yes, I know I rant against the cheesy in other reviews and champion them in others, but what can I say?
I'm moody with waffling standards.
Gavin was his usual brand of homicidal psychopath, my own personal favorite book dreamboat.
I know this is not some people's favorite form of fictional man meat, but crazy town just really does it for me for some reason.
I really liked how Lyla became a bit of a badass here too - and it was believable! - since Gavin had right hand man Blade (snort) training her since she returned in book one.
Anyway, no one will read this without reading the first two...and anyone who read the first two is going to read this if only to find out how it all ends, so this review is really moot.
But still, tada!
September 4, 2017
The third, and final, book in the 'Crime Lord' series, 'Once A Crime Lord' answers all of the lingering questions I had from the first two books. The level of danger is at an all-time high and Lyla and Gavin's relationship is strained as ever, although for much different reasons.
As the mysterious 'Phantom' crime lord grows ever more threatening, Gavin is more determined than ever to find him and make him pay. Now a father, Gavin has never had more to lose. He knows that he will not be able to rest until the 'Phantom' is dead and buried.
Gavin's single-minded focus on the 'Phantom' has come with a high price though. Lyla is essentially a prisoner in her home, locked away for the safety of her and their child. As the weeks drag on with no progress, she grows restless. Meanwhile, Gavin's prolonged absences have wrecked any sense of normalcy or dreams of family bonding time after the birth of their first child.
While this book begins with Gavin and Lyla's relationship seeming to regress, it changes course by the end. Gavin's time spent hunting the 'Phantom' was not in vain. Eventually, he does get his revenge.
That being said, this book does require you to suspend reality. The "final showdown" between Gavin and the 'Phantom' ends up being unrealistic and fantastical. It was still entertaining, but I have to admit that I rolled my eyes at the unexpected turn in events.
All things considered, it was still a pretty good read. I have enjoyed this story a great deal. Even though this book was my least favorite of the three, it was necessary to bring everything full circle. I'm glad I read it. Even with the implausible twist at the end, it was great entertainment if you like darker stories.
Check out more of my reviews at www.bookaddicthaven.com
As the mysterious 'Phantom' crime lord grows ever more threatening, Gavin is more determined than ever to find him and make him pay. Now a father, Gavin has never had more to lose. He knows that he will not be able to rest until the 'Phantom' is dead and buried.
Gavin's single-minded focus on the 'Phantom' has come with a high price though. Lyla is essentially a prisoner in her home, locked away for the safety of her and their child. As the weeks drag on with no progress, she grows restless. Meanwhile, Gavin's prolonged absences have wrecked any sense of normalcy or dreams of family bonding time after the birth of their first child.
While this book begins with Gavin and Lyla's relationship seeming to regress, it changes course by the end. Gavin's time spent hunting the 'Phantom' was not in vain. Eventually, he does get his revenge.
That being said, this book does require you to suspend reality. The "final showdown" between Gavin and the 'Phantom' ends up being unrealistic and fantastical. It was still entertaining, but I have to admit that I rolled my eyes at the unexpected turn in events.
All things considered, it was still a pretty good read. I have enjoyed this story a great deal. Even though this book was my least favorite of the three, it was necessary to bring everything full circle. I'm glad I read it. Even with the implausible twist at the end, it was great entertainment if you like darker stories.
Check out more of my reviews at www.bookaddicthaven.com
October 18, 2020
you should only read this book if you hate yourself like i hate myself
April 11, 2019
Once a Crime Lord is the perfect conclusion to Lyla and Gavin’s story. I’m certain they’ll appear in future books but for now it ended just right. To get to their happy ending was another story. Book 3 is dark, brutal but thankfully their love and connection overshadows that. It’s about the criminal underworld so it has to be dark and gritty and it sure is. Lyla is taking matters in to her own hands. She’s learned a lot by being married to lord of the underworld Gavin Pyre. Lyla and their daughter Nora anchors Gavin. They prevent him from succumbing to the darkness. Lyla and Gavin are the perfect match and no matter what obstacles they face they’ll make it through.
Lyla’s cousin is the badass Carmen. She’s grown so much too after losing her husband. Her support and loyalty to the Pyres’ family is everything. I can’t wait to read her story.
4 Badass Stars
Lyla’s cousin is the badass Carmen. She’s grown so much too after losing her husband. Her support and loyalty to the Pyres’ family is everything. I can’t wait to read her story.
4 Badass Stars
December 24, 2021
Awesome book, awesome series! Review to come...
November 10, 2018
3.5*
I have very mixed feelings on this book.
While overall I’ve enjoyed this series I have struggled throughout with Lyla.
This book is no exception.
Parts of it were really good and kept me reading but...
Other parts left OTT in the rear view mirror and kept on going full pelt. Gavin is a possessive alpha male but here he takes it to a whole new level. Now as long as everything ends well I don’t mind a male being a bit of an asshole. But Gavin did test my patience. A lot.
It’s not often I say this but I liked the secondary characters more than the main ones. I’m looking forward to reading Carmen’s book next. Plus I’m hoping Angel gets his story told.
###
If a book is crazy from the onset then I make a decision. If I continue reading then I sit back and let the crazy come. I seem to struggle more when a book is more or less mainly realistic (or tries to be) and then throws in some crazy.
This could be a reflection on my advancing years. That it takes me longer to adjust.
I have very mixed feelings on this book.
While overall I’ve enjoyed this series I have struggled throughout with Lyla.
This book is no exception.
Parts of it were really good and kept me reading but...
Other parts left OTT in the rear view mirror and kept on going full pelt. Gavin is a possessive alpha male but here he takes it to a whole new level. Now as long as everything ends well I don’t mind a male being a bit of an asshole. But Gavin did test my patience. A lot.
It’s not often I say this but I liked the secondary characters more than the main ones. I’m looking forward to reading Carmen’s book next. Plus I’m hoping Angel gets his story told.
###
If a book is crazy from the onset then I make a decision. If I continue reading then I sit back and let the crazy come. I seem to struggle more when a book is more or less mainly realistic (or tries to be) and then throws in some crazy.
This could be a reflection on my advancing years. That it takes me longer to adjust.
January 20, 2020
Knight could not have written a better ending to the Crime Lord series!
To keep this review spoiler free, I will keep it brief.
Finally Lyla found her back bone. There was some bad assery I did not see coming and I loved it! She showed she has what it takes to be a crime lord's wife whether she wants the role or not.
It was time for Gavin to be his true self. There was no holding back in this book. Darkness comes to the forefront which is something the reader can see coming. Considering all that has happened his beast taking charge was necessary.
There is a darkness to this series which needs the reader to be in the right space for it. Brilliantly written! Knight is an author I will read again.
Happy reading! DD
To keep this review spoiler free, I will keep it brief.
Finally Lyla found her back bone. There was some bad assery I did not see coming and I loved it! She showed she has what it takes to be a crime lord's wife whether she wants the role or not.
It was time for Gavin to be his true self. There was no holding back in this book. Darkness comes to the forefront which is something the reader can see coming. Considering all that has happened his beast taking charge was necessary.
There is a darkness to this series which needs the reader to be in the right space for it. Brilliantly written! Knight is an author I will read again.
Happy reading! DD
April 24, 2017
Gavin I would have loved you. If only you hadn't been a cheater :(
June 9, 2017
3.5 stars
I still this overall but there were things I didn't like.
I liked the H's intensity & passion for the h & most of his j/p moments. I liked the h though she's starting to morph into a totally different h & I'm not sure I like the change. I liked most of the sex scenes & the overall story.
What I didn't like - dare I say that this H may be a bit too OTT j/p ???? I didn't think that was possible but apparently it is.
This dude is so obsessed with the h that his obsession is overshadowing his love. I love an obsessed H but I want him to be in love with her so much that he'd do anything for her. I don't want his obsession to consume him to the point that his feelings matter to him more than hers and that's what this felt like. This H crossed a line and I didn't like it.
The story itself is good and kept my interest. I wasn't bored. Overall, I gave this 3.5 stars due to that terrible scene with the H and the annoying overuse of the main character's name in 3rd person. I strongly urge the author to fix this in future books and to not have a H cross this line again.
I still this overall but there were things I didn't like.
I liked the H's intensity & passion for the h & most of his j/p moments. I liked the h though she's starting to morph into a totally different h & I'm not sure I like the change. I liked most of the sex scenes & the overall story.
What I didn't like - dare I say that this H may be a bit too OTT j/p ???? I didn't think that was possible but apparently it is.
This dude is so obsessed with the h that his obsession is overshadowing his love. I love an obsessed H but I want him to be in love with her so much that he'd do anything for her. I don't want his obsession to consume him to the point that his feelings matter to him more than hers and that's what this felt like. This H crossed a line and I didn't like it.
The story itself is good and kept my interest. I wasn't bored. Overall, I gave this 3.5 stars due to that terrible scene with the H and the annoying overuse of the main character's name in 3rd person. I strongly urge the author to fix this in future books and to not have a H cross this line again.
June 29, 2018
3 stars
Took me a couple of days to get through it. For 70% of the book, I was a little bored - and I was annoyed with the shallow dialogue and interaction between all the characters. I was interested in the appearance of Lyla's ex - Jonathan did deserve closure and it was a testament to his feelings for Lyla that he kept looking for her when she disappeared a couple of years ago (book 1).
The book did pick up in the last 30% and why I gave it a 3rd star. Dark and bloody, Hell was interesting and as well as the character of Lucifer. The back story with Gavin provided some dimension and much needed action to save this book from becoming a cliched 3rd book of a trilogy. Not a keeper or a re-read for me.
Took me a couple of days to get through it. For 70% of the book, I was a little bored - and I was annoyed with the shallow dialogue and interaction between all the characters. I was interested in the appearance of Lyla's ex - Jonathan did deserve closure and it was a testament to his feelings for Lyla that he kept looking for her when she disappeared a couple of years ago (book 1).
The book did pick up in the last 30% and why I gave it a 3rd star. Dark and bloody, Hell was interesting and as well as the character of Lucifer. The back story with Gavin provided some dimension and much needed action to save this book from becoming a cliched 3rd book of a trilogy. Not a keeper or a re-read for me.
April 27, 2017
F**k me,this Crime Lord business is seriously bad for your health! From one threat to the next,this last book of the series had my heart racing and kept me awake at night,wondering what was going to happen next....Loved it!
August 24, 2017
I'm not sure how I feel about this one.
There were scenes I loved in this book but others sucked.
I didn't always feel the emotional connection between the H/h. At times there was a DV vibe which bothered me.
I loved Gavin's internal thoughts but his actions in the h pov chapters bothered me at times.
I loved his scenes with his cousins.
I hope author writes books for Blade & Angel.
There were scenes I loved in this book but others sucked.
I didn't always feel the emotional connection between the H/h. At times there was a DV vibe which bothered me.
I loved Gavin's internal thoughts but his actions in the h pov chapters bothered me at times.
I loved his scenes with his cousins.
I hope author writes books for Blade & Angel.
August 16, 2018
WOW! So, so good! Best one in the series thus far :D
March 18, 2022
This is where it ends - at least for now.
Sadist/Specter is called Phantom in this book.
And he's one sick twisted f*cker. This book has some gruesome, sickening happenings. Things resolve as far as the bad guy is concerned, and also the h/H's commitment but the lives of the mcs, their family and friends remain more a work in progress than a traditional happy happily.
After Nora's birth and for their safety, Lyla becomes an almost prisoner in her home. She chaffs at the bits. Her ex, Jonathan' sudden appearance at this point adds to her emotional tumult. It's quite shocking (or not) how she suddenly gets nostalgic about her simple and uncomplicated life with him. It seems like a betrayal of her commitment to Gavin but slowly I get her point.
Still, the author doesn't help with the way she puts it -
“Lyla drank him in ... She mourned the simple life she had in Maine and now it was in her face, rousing memories that made her feel as if she was in free fall.”
“Her insides were a mishmash of emotion and turbulence. ”
"She couldn’t begin to compare fucking Gavin to making love with Jonathan. The experience couldn’t be more different. ”
So, again we have a couple in conflict.
And there are many threads and complications that make for a fast pace.
As for Phantom's identity, several red herrings are thrown around but...
Actually, it's pretty ott how this guy (or anyone in his place) manages to accumulate so much power and influence in such a short while. He may be a sick sadistic killer but such guys fit in only as serial killers, assassins etc not actual mob/crime bosses who can control so much. In fact, it's difficult for me to swallow that anyone can upstage Gavin Pyre. His persona and personality are supremely dominant and coldly calm, quite befitting a crime lord's.
As in the last book, Lyla keeps evolving from her soft, sensitive self into a strong, unflinching fighter and more. She goes through and does some really gritty stuff.
“You’re my equal, baby girl, my badass. Mine.”
Sadist/Specter is called Phantom in this book.
And he's one sick twisted f*cker. This book has some gruesome, sickening happenings. Things resolve as far as the bad guy is concerned, and also the h/H's commitment but the lives of the mcs, their family and friends remain more a work in progress than a traditional happy happily.
After Nora's birth and for their safety, Lyla becomes an almost prisoner in her home. She chaffs at the bits. Her ex, Jonathan' sudden appearance at this point adds to her emotional tumult. It's quite shocking (or not) how she suddenly gets nostalgic about her simple and uncomplicated life with him. It seems like a betrayal of her commitment to Gavin but slowly I get her point.
Still, the author doesn't help with the way she puts it -
“Lyla drank him in ... She mourned the simple life she had in Maine and now it was in her face, rousing memories that made her feel as if she was in free fall.”
“Her insides were a mishmash of emotion and turbulence. ”
"She couldn’t begin to compare fucking Gavin to making love with Jonathan. The experience couldn’t be more different. ”
So, again we have a couple in conflict.
And there are many threads and complications that make for a fast pace.
As for Phantom's identity, several red herrings are thrown around but...
Actually, it's pretty ott how this guy (or anyone in his place) manages to accumulate so much power and influence in such a short while. He may be a sick sadistic killer but such guys fit in only as serial killers, assassins etc not actual mob/crime bosses who can control so much. In fact, it's difficult for me to swallow that anyone can upstage Gavin Pyre. His persona and personality are supremely dominant and coldly calm, quite befitting a crime lord's.
As in the last book, Lyla keeps evolving from her soft, sensitive self into a strong, unflinching fighter and more. She goes through and does some really gritty stuff.
“You’re my equal, baby girl, my badass. Mine.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2021
It took me the entire trilogy, but I finally understand the obsession with Gavin Pyre 🥵
September 2, 2017
Gavin the possessive, dominate psycho is back with a vengeance. Once A Crime Lord book 3 was a really enjoyable conclusion to Gavin and Lyla although I will not accept there won't be any more stories with this awesome couple. So in the final book Gavin is still searching for Sadist(the bad guy) and he definitely is leaving a bloody trail. He's still crazy jealous and possessive of Layla. His jealousy almost sends him over the edge with the appearance of Jonathan. Layla has grown so much since book 1 and is a total badass. I love how she took care of herself and definitely earned the praise given from the men around her. I'm really looking forward to more from this author and was very happy to read at the end that Carmen is getting a book next. I was really hoping for that after what she's been through.
April 22, 2020
5 Gavin & Lyla Forever Stars
Reread April 2020: Preparing myself for the upcoming new release in the series--Carmen's story, which will conclude in book 5. I can't wait! Books 1-3 kept me up late for days. Mia Knight's mind is trouble. Beware.
Original Review (with edits):
It's incredible, really, Gavin's ability to make me want to throttle him one minute and make my panties disintegrate the next. But Lyla and I were no match for Gavin's unyielding determination. The man knew just what to do, what to say, what buttons to push and pull, until we were willingly at his mercy. Yep, I'm unequivocally crazy in love with Gavin. I've read many alphas before but this one is one of a kind. "He was borderline psychotic, possessive, and domineering, but he loved her, and she loved him."
Here are just a few of my favorites things about Once A Crime Lord:
=>Gavin Pyre, of course. Be still, my beating vagina. I have no shame in admitting he had me in a perpetual state of horniness.
=>Lyla's transformation into a badass was amazing. She literally kicked ass and it was so damn believable. I loved reading about her self-defense training and then watching her in action. She was utterly selfless; she did everything in her power to protect her loved ones. Lyla earned her place in my Favorite Heroines and Kickass Heroines shelves.
=>The suspense and action scenes kept me on the edge of my seat. I could feel my heart in my throat. I'm not even a fan of suspense in romance books but this one was a total hit for me. I'll be honest, that final scenario was wildly OTT, but it didn't matter to me! I was hooked and obsessed with these characters.
=>I fell in love with Carmen (Lyla's cousin and best friend) in book 3. She endured a great loss and went through a metamorphosis herself. But what endeared me to her the most was how much she adored Lyla and Lyla's daughter, Nora. She was loyal and devoted. I created a shelf for Favorite BFFs because of Carmen. I'm dying to read her story (books 4-5).
=>Gavin. Did I say Gavin already? *sighs wistfully*...Where was I? Oh yeah, Gavin as a father was heartwarming. His little girl was straight out of his dreams. I mean, he actually had a dream of her before she was even conceived <3 A powerful, sexy man with a baby...gah!
As I mentioned in my reviews for book 1 & 2, Gavin is no fucking Prince Charming, but he's my kind of Prince Charming.
"He was a crime lord, not Romeo."
WARNING:
"This world isn’t for the faint of heart.”
This is a dark romance novel with triggers, violence, and mature themes that may make some readers uncomfortable.
Reread April 2020: Preparing myself for the upcoming new release in the series--Carmen's story, which will conclude in book 5. I can't wait! Books 1-3 kept me up late for days. Mia Knight's mind is trouble. Beware.
Original Review (with edits):
It's incredible, really, Gavin's ability to make me want to throttle him one minute and make my panties disintegrate the next. But Lyla and I were no match for Gavin's unyielding determination. The man knew just what to do, what to say, what buttons to push and pull, until we were willingly at his mercy. Yep, I'm unequivocally crazy in love with Gavin. I've read many alphas before but this one is one of a kind. "He was borderline psychotic, possessive, and domineering, but he loved her, and she loved him."
Here are just a few of my favorites things about Once A Crime Lord:
=>Gavin Pyre, of course. Be still, my beating vagina. I have no shame in admitting he had me in a perpetual state of horniness.
=>Lyla's transformation into a badass was amazing. She literally kicked ass and it was so damn believable. I loved reading about her self-defense training and then watching her in action. She was utterly selfless; she did everything in her power to protect her loved ones. Lyla earned her place in my Favorite Heroines and Kickass Heroines shelves.
=>The suspense and action scenes kept me on the edge of my seat. I could feel my heart in my throat. I'm not even a fan of suspense in romance books but this one was a total hit for me. I'll be honest, that final scenario was wildly OTT, but it didn't matter to me! I was hooked and obsessed with these characters.
=>I fell in love with Carmen (Lyla's cousin and best friend) in book 3. She endured a great loss and went through a metamorphosis herself. But what endeared me to her the most was how much she adored Lyla and Lyla's daughter, Nora. She was loyal and devoted. I created a shelf for Favorite BFFs because of Carmen. I'm dying to read her story (books 4-5).
=>Gavin. Did I say Gavin already? *sighs wistfully*...Where was I? Oh yeah, Gavin as a father was heartwarming. His little girl was straight out of his dreams. I mean, he actually had a dream of her before she was even conceived <3 A powerful, sexy man with a baby...gah!
As I mentioned in my reviews for book 1 & 2, Gavin is no fucking Prince Charming, but he's my kind of Prince Charming.
"He was a crime lord, not Romeo."
WARNING:
"This world isn’t for the faint of heart.”
This is a dark romance novel with triggers, violence, and mature themes that may make some readers uncomfortable.
April 24, 2017
4.5 STARS
I hope Angel gets his book!
I hope Angel gets his book!
March 7, 2019
5+ BUTT CLENCHING, HE’S NO PRINCE CHARMING HE’S EVEN BETTER STARS!
WOW...WOW WOW WOW!!!!!!!!
What a freakin book!!!!! This one was something else!
Things I LOVED:
The Roman cousins!!!!!! I absolutely loved the introduction of them! Angel was meant to be in this book and meant for the job! His comedic relief was refreshing!
Carmen!!!! I loved her even more than I did in the first two books! She was a true sister to Lyla and I can’t wait for more of her story!
The TRANSFORMATION OF LYLA🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻it was BRILLIANT!!! She really learned well and I loved it!
Blade...he needs his own book!
Lucifer made me laugh!!!!!!!
GAVIN!!!! The epitome of an alpha hole and I swear he’s my new book bf! He was one badass m’fer and I couldn’t have loved him any more!
The angst in this book kept me up until 2am this morning finishing with my butt clenched and having a mild panic attack!! These books were so well written and you felt everything!
I am very disappointed that there wasn’t an epilogue😭 and that her father didn’t suffer more😂
This book was recommended to me by my good friend @lydiasromance and I am so glad that I read them! If you haven’t YOU NEED TO!!!! FABULOUS!!!!
Angst⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️OFF THE CHARTS
cheating none
Sexy Time ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Epilogue none😭
Plot⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WOW...WOW WOW WOW!!!!!!!!
What a freakin book!!!!! This one was something else!
Things I LOVED:
The Roman cousins!!!!!! I absolutely loved the introduction of them! Angel was meant to be in this book and meant for the job! His comedic relief was refreshing!
Carmen!!!! I loved her even more than I did in the first two books! She was a true sister to Lyla and I can’t wait for more of her story!
The TRANSFORMATION OF LYLA🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻it was BRILLIANT!!! She really learned well and I loved it!
Blade...he needs his own book!
Lucifer made me laugh!!!!!!!
GAVIN!!!! The epitome of an alpha hole and I swear he’s my new book bf! He was one badass m’fer and I couldn’t have loved him any more!
The angst in this book kept me up until 2am this morning finishing with my butt clenched and having a mild panic attack!! These books were so well written and you felt everything!
I am very disappointed that there wasn’t an epilogue😭 and that her father didn’t suffer more😂
This book was recommended to me by my good friend @lydiasromance and I am so glad that I read them! If you haven’t YOU NEED TO!!!! FABULOUS!!!!
Angst⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️OFF THE CHARTS
cheating none
Sexy Time ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Epilogue none😭
Plot⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 24, 2018
loved this book!Loved this Series even more.I couldnt put it down.i cant wait to read more.
November 1, 2018
5*****!! so good!! sad it's over!
July 16, 2025
anything less OTT wouldn't be Gavin's style.
love this psycho 🖤
like, seriously.
love this psycho 🖤
like, seriously.
August 20, 2020
Incoming unpopular review alert!!
😫😩😭
I’m so sad to report my disappointment in Mia Knight’s Crime Lord series, especially after how much I LOVED Bitter Heat (one of my ALL-TIME FAVORITES EVER!!! I can’t believe I’m forced to wait until 2021 for the next book! 😭😭😭).
OK, let me get myself together here…
Spoilers will follow, and I will tag them…
The series started out well enough with a waaaaaay OTT H and what seemed to be a strong h. The setting is Sin City, and our H is Gavin Pyre, owner of a chain of Vegas resorts and casinos. The Pyre family doesn’t exactly operate within the confines of the law, involving themselves in all sorts of nefarious underground activities. Gavin’s father, Manny, is the retired Crime Lord, and passed the torch onto his son. Gavin is good at his job - both the business side and the criminal side - but hasn’t exactly been the best boyfriend to Lyla.
Lyla was introduced to Gavin by Manny. She worked for him as his personal assistant while she was in high school. At the same time, Lyla’s father, a compulsive gambler, worked for the Pyres as an accountant. Because of her father’s reckless way with money, Lyla was routinely forced to hand over her paycheck for bills and other household needs. Her parents take her for granted, and she expects no thanks from them. She just puts her head down and gets the job done. This sets the scene for a strong, sympathetic h - and this is how I viewed her at the start.
The series opens with Lyla, going by the pseudonym Morgan, living in Maine with a boyfriend, Jonathan. Very quickly, the is approached by one of Gavin’s henchmen and forced back to Las Vegas. We find out that Lyla left Gavin three years prior.
Much of the series is made up of Lyla running away from Gavin and him bringing her back ; Lyla interacting with her cousin, Carmen (who - though she is a good friend to Lyla and many readers love her - drove me nuts); and Lyla hemming and hawing about her relationship with Gavin ad nauseam. I could tolerate this in the first book, and even somewhat in the second book, but by the third, I just wanted her to get it together already.
Rarely have I encountered such a jealous, possessive, OTT H as Gavin in other books I’ve read, and honestly, the dude needs therapy. Still, I’m not one to complain about that sort of H. Lyla’s constant provocation of his jealous side and what I eventually came to see as bratty behavior got on my nerves. Additionally, .
The chemistry between the two was pretty potent at the beginning, but waned, in my opinion, as the series progressed.
There is a somewhat intriguing mystery in this book (and the second) about a sadistic man who is trying to make himself the new Crime Lord.
So, in conclusion, the first book started out great, the second was so-so, and by the end, I grew weary of the series. It might have been better if I hadn’t read them back to back. Mia Knight is a great author - and I can’t overstate how phenomenal Bitter Heat is - but this series just wasn’t my cup of tea.
Happy reading!
😫😩😭
I’m so sad to report my disappointment in Mia Knight’s Crime Lord series, especially after how much I LOVED Bitter Heat (one of my ALL-TIME FAVORITES EVER!!! I can’t believe I’m forced to wait until 2021 for the next book! 😭😭😭).
OK, let me get myself together here…
Spoilers will follow, and I will tag them…
The series started out well enough with a waaaaaay OTT H and what seemed to be a strong h. The setting is Sin City, and our H is Gavin Pyre, owner of a chain of Vegas resorts and casinos. The Pyre family doesn’t exactly operate within the confines of the law, involving themselves in all sorts of nefarious underground activities. Gavin’s father, Manny, is the retired Crime Lord, and passed the torch onto his son. Gavin is good at his job - both the business side and the criminal side - but hasn’t exactly been the best boyfriend to Lyla.
Lyla was introduced to Gavin by Manny. She worked for him as his personal assistant while she was in high school. At the same time, Lyla’s father, a compulsive gambler, worked for the Pyres as an accountant. Because of her father’s reckless way with money, Lyla was routinely forced to hand over her paycheck for bills and other household needs. Her parents take her for granted, and she expects no thanks from them. She just puts her head down and gets the job done. This sets the scene for a strong, sympathetic h - and this is how I viewed her at the start.
The series opens with Lyla, going by the pseudonym Morgan, living in Maine with a boyfriend, Jonathan. Very quickly, the is approached by one of Gavin’s henchmen and forced back to Las Vegas. We find out that Lyla left Gavin three years prior.
Much of the series is made up of Lyla running away from Gavin and him bringing her back ; Lyla interacting with her cousin, Carmen (who - though she is a good friend to Lyla and many readers love her - drove me nuts); and Lyla hemming and hawing about her relationship with Gavin ad nauseam. I could tolerate this in the first book, and even somewhat in the second book, but by the third, I just wanted her to get it together already.
Rarely have I encountered such a jealous, possessive, OTT H as Gavin in other books I’ve read, and honestly, the dude needs therapy. Still, I’m not one to complain about that sort of H. Lyla’s constant provocation of his jealous side and what I eventually came to see as bratty behavior got on my nerves. Additionally, .
The chemistry between the two was pretty potent at the beginning, but waned, in my opinion, as the series progressed.
There is a somewhat intriguing mystery in this book (and the second) about a sadistic man who is trying to make himself the new Crime Lord.
So, in conclusion, the first book started out great, the second was so-so, and by the end, I grew weary of the series. It might have been better if I hadn’t read them back to back. Mia Knight is a great author - and I can’t overstate how phenomenal Bitter Heat is - but this series just wasn’t my cup of tea.
Happy reading!
August 3, 2017
Review on this series to follow
So I needed to take a few to think back on this series to give my honest opinion.
While I read so many reviews that this is a great mafia series with great characters, personally it didn't impress me a much as some readers. There were some great characters that while not the main H/h. I liked both Blade and Carmen, they helped move the story along.
Both the main characters irritated me, Gavin suppose to be the Crime Lord of Las Vegas and yet he him haws back and forth on weather he wants to stay in that position. Lyla gives him an ultimatum, love her or stay Crime Lord and he decides to give it up for her?
Lyla...hmmmm? I couldn't relate to her at all. She walks in to finding her fiance having a full blown orgy, takes off and three years later is taken back to him and within no time at all she's back in his bed. Damn girl, make him work for it!
She watches the man she considers her true father figure be beaten to death. Takes off again and this time, while not really wanting too...marries him minutes after he finds her. Irritating.
All in all this story was ok...not great, not outstanding and sometimes not even partly believable.
So I needed to take a few to think back on this series to give my honest opinion.
While I read so many reviews that this is a great mafia series with great characters, personally it didn't impress me a much as some readers. There were some great characters that while not the main H/h. I liked both Blade and Carmen, they helped move the story along.
Both the main characters irritated me, Gavin suppose to be the Crime Lord of Las Vegas and yet he him haws back and forth on weather he wants to stay in that position. Lyla gives him an ultimatum, love her or stay Crime Lord and he decides to give it up for her?
Lyla...hmmmm? I couldn't relate to her at all. She walks in to finding her fiance having a full blown orgy, takes off and three years later is taken back to him and within no time at all she's back in his bed. Damn girl, make him work for it!
She watches the man she considers her true father figure be beaten to death. Takes off again and this time, while not really wanting too...marries him minutes after he finds her. Irritating.
All in all this story was ok...not great, not outstanding and sometimes not even partly believable.
July 10, 2022
"Once a Crime Lord" is the continuation of the story of Lyla and Gavin.
We begin with Lyla nursing Nora, their daughter and Gavin entering the scene after trying to hunt down "Sadist". Their complicated relationship continues as Jonathan, Lyla's ex enters the scenes and their bonds of trust are tested. We have an insanely jealous/ possessive hero, a heroine notorious for getting into trouble, loads of hot sex, drama and violence, but atleast we discover the villain's identity and that chapter is closed.
Safe for me
4/5
We begin with Lyla nursing Nora, their daughter and Gavin entering the scene after trying to hunt down "Sadist". Their complicated relationship continues as Jonathan, Lyla's ex enters the scenes and their bonds of trust are tested. We have an insanely jealous/ possessive hero, a heroine notorious for getting into trouble, loads of hot sex, drama and violence, but atleast we discover the villain's identity and that chapter is closed.
Safe for me
4/5
April 25, 2017
I absolutely loved this book/ series. It's intense, violent, and a damn good read. I did think the ending was a little abrupt, but I feel like it leaves room for future possibilities. Excellent job!
August 5, 2017
LONG AND WITH SPOILERS
Back at it again with crazy Gavin and, thinks she's sane but who is she really fooling, Lyla. This book got me honestly. I thought I was ready but no. Of course as always Mia Knight brings an amazing combination of funny and thrilling wrapped in drama and hot ass sex. I loved it to say the least and I laughed so hard. These book are actually so beautiful in the way they're written and the characters emotions that you can actually feel (even if you don't agree with the reason they're feeling that way). The new characters are absolutely gold and I can't wait to read more of them.
Gavin
As always he's stubborn and makes me angry as much as he makes me hot (which is a lot). I still love Gavin of course like Lyla I just keep getting sucked in because he's just so....Gavin. I felt like he grew a little this book, just a little bit because he doesn't change much through the last two books I mean it's Gavin he isn't supposed to change much because he doesn't have to really all he knows is he loves Lyla and would do anything to protect his family. I suppose I just understood him more in this book, I got where he was coming from...I didn't agree but thats besides the point. He had so many cute moments.
"That’s romantic,” she said dryly.
“You want romance?”
Lyla made a face. “Romance?” Their relationship had never been about flamboyant gestures or sweet words.
He looked offended. “You don’t think I can do romance?”
“I don’t need romance,” she said. "
“Was he romantic?”
Gavin was such a bullheaded ass. “Yes, he was.”
He tensed and she realized she should have lied.
“Gavin, romance is nothing compared to—”
“I’ll give you fucking romance.”.... “I want to be the one to give you everything,” he stated.
She clasped his face between her hands. “You do give me everything.”
“Except romance.”
Like awwww ok you're romantic Gavin
“I fucked up. I’ll take whatever you want to throw at me. You shouldn’t have been put in a position to do the things you had to do.” Gavin raised his head and looked down at her. “But thank fuck you did. I’m going to make the Phantom suffer. I’m going to bring you his head so you know it’s really over.” He brushed his thumb over her bottom lip. “Do you hate me, baby?”
Of course she didn’t hate him, but she wasn’t happy about being gagged, handcuffed and fucked in a hospital room. He was insane.”
INSANELY HOT.
No but he is insane, he might want to see a doctor while at the hospital for sure because I'm sure he has a screw loose.
But just because I started with the good doesn't mean there isn't bad.
"You betrayed me,” Gavin hissed.
He tipped his head back and let out an angry roar before he brought the knife down. Lyla screamed and raised her hands to protect herself as the knife sank into the wall six inches from her head. "
"You fucked up today,” Gavin said.
“So did you.” The feeling of being hunted pissed her off. She shouldn’t be afraid of her husband, but she was. The polished veneer was what most people saw, but she knew about the beast beneath the pretty exterior. “You could have killed me.”
“If I didn’t love you so much, I would.”
Her breath whooshed out of her. “What?"
“If I didn’t love you so much, I never would have stepped down from my position and my father and Vinny would still be alive.”
Lyla felt as if he punched her in the stomach.
“If we didn’t have Nora, I’d lock you in here,” he continued.
The pleasure he evoked from her body was replaced with despair. Lyla wanted to curl up in a ball. Instead, she whispered, “I gave up a normal life to be with you.”
HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND. He never had one to start but excuse me that's your wife... ACT RIGHT GAVIN. ACT. RIGHT.
He was absolutely insane the whole scene in the basement and I was so done with him because he doesn't listen and it pains me to think he doesn't care about Lyla's opinion or feelings and it completely irks me that he seems to think Lyla's the only one who has to change and make compromises and when she tells him this he still doesn't bend thats so horrible to do to someone you claim to love.
^ That was basically the conversation
Stop being a dick and grow up and realize to have a relationship there has to be give and take on both sides and compromise on both sides and accommodating on BOTH sides. He gave me a headache to say the least.
Lyla
Oh Lyla Lyla Lyla so much character development and she still has the gull to be surprise by who she married. If I had a penny for every time in this series she has said Gavin fucking Pyre couldn't do something it would match the size of Marcus's self confidence by now. Lucky us, we got to see badass Lyla some more and I was screaming goooooo Lyla cheer the whole way. (Go Lyla go Lyla go. Kill all the bad guys/shoot all the bums/ kill your father too since he counts as one) Ok so I'm not that good at cheers but you get my point. Since I started with good things about Gavin I'm going to start with bad things about Lyla to make it even and all.
Lyla had me chanting no no no when she decided to not tell Gavin about Jonathan
“He won’t find out about Jonathan.”
“You better hope not,” Carmen said.”
we all know how that goes...
Besides from that I can't actually think of many times she's been in the wrong. I am really trying here too...well on to the next then. Badass Lyla is much more fun to talk about anyway.
Off to a bang, cute Lyla and Gavin scenes
“Gavin considered for a full minute. “I shouldn’t let you go.”
She sensed his capitulation and kissed the hell out of him to celebrate. She had finally won a fight! “You’re the best husband!”
She rolled off of him and retied her robe. Gavin sat up and glared balefully at her.
“What?”
“Did you just manipulate me with your pussy?”
“Yes,” she said smugly”
Then onto the savagery
“Lyla wasn’t aware of the fact that she still held her gun or that she pulled the trigger. Her father’s body jerked like a puppet on a string as a bullet sliced through him. The gun he held fell with a dull thud.”
I was shooooook. I was happy as hell but still shook.
I don't have a quote but Lyla killing those guys Pat was working with. GOOOO LYLA
THEN Lyla beats up the 'Vega wimp' (as he will always be referred now)
“She gripped one edge of the shield, raised it over her head and brought it down with every ounce of strength she possessed. For Manny, for her mother, for Vinny, for Carmen—”
Go Lyla Go Lyla Go
I felt her grow even more in this book and it wasn't her skills and fighting that got better but also her coping with how using those skills made her feel. Lyla is a Crime Lord all on her own.
New guys
I have to start with Marcus and I know he's not new but god I love that man.
“He stood back and beamed. “You look great!”
She relaxed and her anxiety fell away. “Thank you.”
“Where’s my goddaughter?”
Gavin scowled as he broke through the ring of female employees around him. “I never made you Nora’s godfather.”
“You should,” Marcus said, unperturbed by Gavin’s surly attitude. He bent to catch Nora’s attention. “Hi, baby, I’m Uncle Marcus.”
“You want to be Nora’s godfather?” he ground out.
“What are you talking about? I am her godfather.”
Gavin stopped in his tracks and fisted his hands at his sides so they wouldn’t go around Marcus’s throat. “You aren’t.”
“Of course I am.”
“Lyla looked amazing today, by the way,” Marcus said casually.
He tensed. “Don’t.”
“And my goddaughter knew who I was. Remember, she even reached for me even though you were holding her—”
Gavin stepped into Marcus’s space. “I haven’t gone into the boxing ring for months and I’m due. You want to schedule an appointment?”
Marcus grinned at him. “Nah, I’m good.”
“Motherfucker.”
Angel
Another utter love of my life. With all the charm of Marcus and all the looks of Adonis you gotta love him.
“ “I tried to hand the underworld over to Vinny and they gunned him down. It won’t be easy. They’re like wild animals. One mistake and you’re dead.”
Angel’s eyes gleamed. “Now you’re trying to turn me on. When do we leave?”
“Eat,” he said before he bit into his pizza.
When she glared at him, he grabbed her fork and stabbed greens and a piece of chicken. Clearly, he intended to feed her. She snatched the fork and took a bite. When she didn’t go back for another bite, Angel took the fork and did the same process.
“I can feed myself!” she snapped.
“Then do so,” he said.
“No wonder you’ve never married. No woman would put up with your bullshit,” she muttered.
“It’s not bullshit. I’m taking care of you.”
“It’s not your job to take care of me.”
“Of course it is,” he said.
Lyla looked at Blade. “I can’t pass on these genes. I’m not having anymore kids.”
“Don’t count on it,” Angel muttered. ”
And since I don't have the perfect quote for it I'll jus mention his cute indignation over Marcus touching Lyla and his adorable habit of hand holding. Can't wait to read more of his unique charisma and for him to be Crime Lord though I'll always remember Gavin's iconic statement:
"Who the fuck do you think you are?” a belligerent man wearing a wolf mask asked.
Gavin knocked the mask off his face and grabbed fistfuls of his suit. “I’m your fucking crime lord, bitch.” Gavin released him and even as he staggered back, Gavin’s fist flashed out."
LUCIFER!!!!
This guy tied with Angel over favorite new character because God he was funny and Jesus he was hilarious.
“You and I are one and the same.” Lucifer licked his lips. “We need violence the way other people need sex.”
“What I need is my wife.”
Lucifer snorted in disgust. “Your obsession with this one woman is unhealthy.”
When a guy named Lucifer is the sensible one....
“Lucifer had a peculiar expression on his face. “I’ve never been a part of a kid’s life.”
“For good reason,” Angel muttered.
Lucifer frowned. “I could teach her. With their blood in her veins, she has to be a fighter. It would be... interesting.”
Gavin lunged for him, but Blade and Angel held firm.
Lucifer frowned at him. “Don’t you want your daughter to be prepared?”
“Gavin didn’t release her when she tried to raise her head and see who the fuck that guy was. Gavin squeezed her so tight, she could barely breathe.
“Gaaaaavin,” the man whined. “You promised.”
From thumbs up to kinky sex couples and playing guess who with the fake crime lords identity to fist bumping Lyla for beating up the vega wimp he was fall off my bed funny (which I did) and I hope to see more.
Blade
So not new but come on I love this dude. He used a fake syringe to play Gavin and sedate him. Amazing. That is dedication.
“You’re getting good at that, Blade. When are you going to become a daddy?” Carmen asked as she sashayed past.
“When hell freezes over.” Blade glanced at Lyla who had her arms crossed. “No offense. Babies aren’t my thing.”
“But Nora loves you,” Lyla said.
“I like her well enough since she’s my goddaughter,” Blade said with a straight face, “but she needs a lot of everything and I don’t have time for that.”
Blade oh lovely Blade
^see what I did there? Licking a blade
I swear this series gave me joy in my most annoyed and gloomy moments and I cannot wait to see what other genius works come from Mia Knight and I will definitely be along for the ride.
Back at it again with crazy Gavin and, thinks she's sane but who is she really fooling, Lyla. This book got me honestly. I thought I was ready but no. Of course as always Mia Knight brings an amazing combination of funny and thrilling wrapped in drama and hot ass sex. I loved it to say the least and I laughed so hard. These book are actually so beautiful in the way they're written and the characters emotions that you can actually feel (even if you don't agree with the reason they're feeling that way). The new characters are absolutely gold and I can't wait to read more of them.
Gavin
As always he's stubborn and makes me angry as much as he makes me hot (which is a lot). I still love Gavin of course like Lyla I just keep getting sucked in because he's just so....Gavin. I felt like he grew a little this book, just a little bit because he doesn't change much through the last two books I mean it's Gavin he isn't supposed to change much because he doesn't have to really all he knows is he loves Lyla and would do anything to protect his family. I suppose I just understood him more in this book, I got where he was coming from...I didn't agree but thats besides the point. He had so many cute moments.
"That’s romantic,” she said dryly.
“You want romance?”
Lyla made a face. “Romance?” Their relationship had never been about flamboyant gestures or sweet words.
He looked offended. “You don’t think I can do romance?”
“I don’t need romance,” she said. "
“Was he romantic?”
Gavin was such a bullheaded ass. “Yes, he was.”
He tensed and she realized she should have lied.
“Gavin, romance is nothing compared to—”
“I’ll give you fucking romance.”.... “I want to be the one to give you everything,” he stated.
She clasped his face between her hands. “You do give me everything.”
“Except romance.”
Like awwww ok you're romantic Gavin
“I fucked up. I’ll take whatever you want to throw at me. You shouldn’t have been put in a position to do the things you had to do.” Gavin raised his head and looked down at her. “But thank fuck you did. I’m going to make the Phantom suffer. I’m going to bring you his head so you know it’s really over.” He brushed his thumb over her bottom lip. “Do you hate me, baby?”
Of course she didn’t hate him, but she wasn’t happy about being gagged, handcuffed and fucked in a hospital room. He was insane.”
INSANELY HOT.
No but he is insane, he might want to see a doctor while at the hospital for sure because I'm sure he has a screw loose.
But just because I started with the good doesn't mean there isn't bad.
"You betrayed me,” Gavin hissed.
He tipped his head back and let out an angry roar before he brought the knife down. Lyla screamed and raised her hands to protect herself as the knife sank into the wall six inches from her head. "
"You fucked up today,” Gavin said.
“So did you.” The feeling of being hunted pissed her off. She shouldn’t be afraid of her husband, but she was. The polished veneer was what most people saw, but she knew about the beast beneath the pretty exterior. “You could have killed me.”
“If I didn’t love you so much, I would.”
Her breath whooshed out of her. “What?"
“If I didn’t love you so much, I never would have stepped down from my position and my father and Vinny would still be alive.”
Lyla felt as if he punched her in the stomach.
“If we didn’t have Nora, I’d lock you in here,” he continued.
The pleasure he evoked from her body was replaced with despair. Lyla wanted to curl up in a ball. Instead, she whispered, “I gave up a normal life to be with you.”
HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND. He never had one to start but excuse me that's your wife... ACT RIGHT GAVIN. ACT. RIGHT.
He was absolutely insane the whole scene in the basement and I was so done with him because he doesn't listen and it pains me to think he doesn't care about Lyla's opinion or feelings and it completely irks me that he seems to think Lyla's the only one who has to change and make compromises and when she tells him this he still doesn't bend thats so horrible to do to someone you claim to love.
^ That was basically the conversation
Stop being a dick and grow up and realize to have a relationship there has to be give and take on both sides and compromise on both sides and accommodating on BOTH sides. He gave me a headache to say the least.
Lyla
Oh Lyla Lyla Lyla so much character development and she still has the gull to be surprise by who she married. If I had a penny for every time in this series she has said Gavin fucking Pyre couldn't do something it would match the size of Marcus's self confidence by now. Lucky us, we got to see badass Lyla some more and I was screaming goooooo Lyla cheer the whole way. (Go Lyla go Lyla go. Kill all the bad guys/shoot all the bums/ kill your father too since he counts as one) Ok so I'm not that good at cheers but you get my point. Since I started with good things about Gavin I'm going to start with bad things about Lyla to make it even and all.
Lyla had me chanting no no no when she decided to not tell Gavin about Jonathan
“He won’t find out about Jonathan.”
“You better hope not,” Carmen said.”
we all know how that goes...
Besides from that I can't actually think of many times she's been in the wrong. I am really trying here too...well on to the next then. Badass Lyla is much more fun to talk about anyway.
Off to a bang, cute Lyla and Gavin scenes
“Gavin considered for a full minute. “I shouldn’t let you go.”
She sensed his capitulation and kissed the hell out of him to celebrate. She had finally won a fight! “You’re the best husband!”
She rolled off of him and retied her robe. Gavin sat up and glared balefully at her.
“What?”
“Did you just manipulate me with your pussy?”
“Yes,” she said smugly”
Then onto the savagery
“Lyla wasn’t aware of the fact that she still held her gun or that she pulled the trigger. Her father’s body jerked like a puppet on a string as a bullet sliced through him. The gun he held fell with a dull thud.”
I was shooooook. I was happy as hell but still shook.
I don't have a quote but Lyla killing those guys Pat was working with. GOOOO LYLA
THEN Lyla beats up the 'Vega wimp' (as he will always be referred now)
“She gripped one edge of the shield, raised it over her head and brought it down with every ounce of strength she possessed. For Manny, for her mother, for Vinny, for Carmen—”
Go Lyla Go Lyla Go
I felt her grow even more in this book and it wasn't her skills and fighting that got better but also her coping with how using those skills made her feel. Lyla is a Crime Lord all on her own.
New guys
I have to start with Marcus and I know he's not new but god I love that man.
“He stood back and beamed. “You look great!”
She relaxed and her anxiety fell away. “Thank you.”
“Where’s my goddaughter?”
Gavin scowled as he broke through the ring of female employees around him. “I never made you Nora’s godfather.”
“You should,” Marcus said, unperturbed by Gavin’s surly attitude. He bent to catch Nora’s attention. “Hi, baby, I’m Uncle Marcus.”
“You want to be Nora’s godfather?” he ground out.
“What are you talking about? I am her godfather.”
Gavin stopped in his tracks and fisted his hands at his sides so they wouldn’t go around Marcus’s throat. “You aren’t.”
“Of course I am.”
“Lyla looked amazing today, by the way,” Marcus said casually.
He tensed. “Don’t.”
“And my goddaughter knew who I was. Remember, she even reached for me even though you were holding her—”
Gavin stepped into Marcus’s space. “I haven’t gone into the boxing ring for months and I’m due. You want to schedule an appointment?”
Marcus grinned at him. “Nah, I’m good.”
“Motherfucker.”
Angel
Another utter love of my life. With all the charm of Marcus and all the looks of Adonis you gotta love him.
“ “I tried to hand the underworld over to Vinny and they gunned him down. It won’t be easy. They’re like wild animals. One mistake and you’re dead.”
Angel’s eyes gleamed. “Now you’re trying to turn me on. When do we leave?”
“Eat,” he said before he bit into his pizza.
When she glared at him, he grabbed her fork and stabbed greens and a piece of chicken. Clearly, he intended to feed her. She snatched the fork and took a bite. When she didn’t go back for another bite, Angel took the fork and did the same process.
“I can feed myself!” she snapped.
“Then do so,” he said.
“No wonder you’ve never married. No woman would put up with your bullshit,” she muttered.
“It’s not bullshit. I’m taking care of you.”
“It’s not your job to take care of me.”
“Of course it is,” he said.
Lyla looked at Blade. “I can’t pass on these genes. I’m not having anymore kids.”
“Don’t count on it,” Angel muttered. ”
And since I don't have the perfect quote for it I'll jus mention his cute indignation over Marcus touching Lyla and his adorable habit of hand holding. Can't wait to read more of his unique charisma and for him to be Crime Lord though I'll always remember Gavin's iconic statement:
"Who the fuck do you think you are?” a belligerent man wearing a wolf mask asked.
Gavin knocked the mask off his face and grabbed fistfuls of his suit. “I’m your fucking crime lord, bitch.” Gavin released him and even as he staggered back, Gavin’s fist flashed out."
LUCIFER!!!!
This guy tied with Angel over favorite new character because God he was funny and Jesus he was hilarious.
“You and I are one and the same.” Lucifer licked his lips. “We need violence the way other people need sex.”
“What I need is my wife.”
Lucifer snorted in disgust. “Your obsession with this one woman is unhealthy.”
When a guy named Lucifer is the sensible one....
“Lucifer had a peculiar expression on his face. “I’ve never been a part of a kid’s life.”
“For good reason,” Angel muttered.
Lucifer frowned. “I could teach her. With their blood in her veins, she has to be a fighter. It would be... interesting.”
Gavin lunged for him, but Blade and Angel held firm.
Lucifer frowned at him. “Don’t you want your daughter to be prepared?”
“Gavin didn’t release her when she tried to raise her head and see who the fuck that guy was. Gavin squeezed her so tight, she could barely breathe.
“Gaaaaavin,” the man whined. “You promised.”
From thumbs up to kinky sex couples and playing guess who with the fake crime lords identity to fist bumping Lyla for beating up the vega wimp he was fall off my bed funny (which I did) and I hope to see more.
Blade
So not new but come on I love this dude. He used a fake syringe to play Gavin and sedate him. Amazing. That is dedication.
“You’re getting good at that, Blade. When are you going to become a daddy?” Carmen asked as she sashayed past.
“When hell freezes over.” Blade glanced at Lyla who had her arms crossed. “No offense. Babies aren’t my thing.”
“But Nora loves you,” Lyla said.
“I like her well enough since she’s my goddaughter,” Blade said with a straight face, “but she needs a lot of everything and I don’t have time for that.”
Blade oh lovely Blade
^see what I did there? Licking a blade
I swear this series gave me joy in my most annoyed and gloomy moments and I cannot wait to see what other genius works come from Mia Knight and I will definitely be along for the ride.
July 15, 2021
This is the third book in the Crime Lord series and is the finale of Gavin and Lyla's story. It was just as dark and dirty as the first two. The plot continues with Gavin and Lyla learning to strengthen their relationship and bond and Gavin still trying to find the new crime lord that has taken blood from both of them. Will they be able to find and kill him before everything crumbles?
Gavin is still the ultimate psychotic alpha male that had me swooning (he was so YUMMY). In real life, the sh*t he does obviously wouldn't fly but I love reading about it. Lyla grows a lot in here and becomes a much stronger woman that took no crap from anyone...not even Gavin. Well unless his d*ck was involved (same girl same). The secondary characters were intriguing and I'm hoping that a few of them will get their own stories.
Overall, the conclusion to Gavin and Lyla's story was fast-paced, suspenseful, hot and violent. If you like dark romance and haven't read this one, I highly recommend it!
Gavin is still the ultimate psychotic alpha male that had me swooning (he was so YUMMY). In real life, the sh*t he does obviously wouldn't fly but I love reading about it. Lyla grows a lot in here and becomes a much stronger woman that took no crap from anyone...not even Gavin. Well unless his d*ck was involved (same girl same). The secondary characters were intriguing and I'm hoping that a few of them will get their own stories.
Overall, the conclusion to Gavin and Lyla's story was fast-paced, suspenseful, hot and violent. If you like dark romance and haven't read this one, I highly recommend it!
April 26, 2017
Omg more more could not stop reading want more please what do i read now 100 hundred stars ⛤⛤⛤⛤⛤⛤⛤⛤⛤⛤⛤⛤⛤
June 22, 2017
Gavin is sitting mighty pretty in the #1 spot for the most alpha, possessive, crazy in love dude in LIFE! Every single thing this dude does is the EXTREME!!! I absolutely LOVE IT!
In the final installment, OACL, Lyla proves she's not just a pretty face! She is three times the man than any of her bodyguards when her family is threatened. Between Lyla and Gavin, Las Vegas will never be the same! The most delicious part is not in their skills in taking down countless enemies although it's just lovely how they execute every takedown. Noooooooooo honey someone comes to town and BOOM! A whole new level of crazy is released! Man! There are a few scenes surrounding this someone that is OSCAR WORTHY!!! I can't say anything else! I'm sooooo incredibly hype on adrenaline I might ruin the damn story for ya!
This story, well dang the entire series actually, is very dark, violent, and FABULOUS!!! There isn't a dull moment anywhere! For the dramatic mafia lovers, this is your jackpot! Read the series and thank me later. Well you can thank Mia by leaving a review!!!
Five adrenaline-filled stars!!!
Disclaimer: This review is my PERSONAL OPINION of this fabulous book! My personal opinion should have no bearing on your experience with this book or the series!!!
In the final installment, OACL, Lyla proves she's not just a pretty face! She is three times the man than any of her bodyguards when her family is threatened. Between Lyla and Gavin, Las Vegas will never be the same! The most delicious part is not in their skills in taking down countless enemies although it's just lovely how they execute every takedown. Noooooooooo honey someone comes to town and BOOM! A whole new level of crazy is released! Man! There are a few scenes surrounding this someone that is OSCAR WORTHY!!! I can't say anything else! I'm sooooo incredibly hype on adrenaline I might ruin the damn story for ya!
This story, well dang the entire series actually, is very dark, violent, and FABULOUS!!! There isn't a dull moment anywhere! For the dramatic mafia lovers, this is your jackpot! Read the series and thank me later. Well you can thank Mia by leaving a review!!!
Five adrenaline-filled stars!!!
Disclaimer: This review is my PERSONAL OPINION of this fabulous book! My personal opinion should have no bearing on your experience with this book or the series!!!
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