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Secrets of the Night #2
Dark Encounter
Some desires are better left untapped…
I didn’t choose the life I’m living, and yet, I own it.
My relief from the violence and blood is through fiction novels.
No one knows and never will. It’s not appropriate, nor would it ever be accepted.
As the son of the most violent mob boss in all of New York, I play the part well.
And love is the last thing on my mind. I’d lose it the minute I got it anyway.
So what’s the point?
But then Grace appears.
A sweet, innocent, virginal librarian with a bend toward romance books, or that’s what I see her holding in her pale fingers all the time.
She’s far more than meets the eye, and from what I can tell, she’s not looking for love either.
Just a dark encounter with a dangerous stranger in a quiet corner of the library.
Good. I’m the right man for the job.
I didn’t choose the life I’m living, and yet, I own it.
My relief from the violence and blood is through fiction novels.
No one knows and never will. It’s not appropriate, nor would it ever be accepted.
As the son of the most violent mob boss in all of New York, I play the part well.
And love is the last thing on my mind. I’d lose it the minute I got it anyway.
So what’s the point?
But then Grace appears.
A sweet, innocent, virginal librarian with a bend toward romance books, or that’s what I see her holding in her pale fingers all the time.
She’s far more than meets the eye, and from what I can tell, she’s not looking for love either.
Just a dark encounter with a dangerous stranger in a quiet corner of the library.
Good. I’m the right man for the job.
- GenresDark
211 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 11, 2019
157 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
About the author
Nicole York
49 books62 followersNicole York is a woman that loves the thrill of suspense. Whether that be flipping upside down on a roller coaster or sitting on the edge of her seat watching the latest thriller movie, she’s all in. If you see the sports car on the freeway flying by you, take a pic, because you probably just saw her!!
She is the one that always figures out the plot in the movie and comes up with the ending that no one else ever saw coming. It just serves her right that now in the books she writes sometimes the characters take the book a direction the author had not planned on.
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/NicoleYorkAu...
Insiders Group- https://dl.bookfunnel.com/g9btmoveu9
She is the one that always figures out the plot in the movie and comes up with the ending that no one else ever saw coming. It just serves her right that now in the books she writes sometimes the characters take the book a direction the author had not planned on.
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/NicoleYorkAu...
Insiders Group- https://dl.bookfunnel.com/g9btmoveu9
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
July 12, 2019
I'm a big fan of mafia romance, but I have never read anything quite like this. Most of the mafia romances I've read have never left me speechless. I don't know what I expected from Dark Encounter, but this was definitely not it. I'm use to reading mafia romances with a certain level of violence, but this book... OMG! Way too much! And what is with the mafia don beating the crap out of his grown son (and not just once) because the son refused to stop seeing a woman who he was falling for? What kind of father, mafia don or not, does that? Although there is a somewhat HEA, I wish the author would have given an epilogue that was 5 or so years into the future. The way this book ended just didn't leave me satisfied. I would have given this book more than a 3 star rating if the amount of violence and sadistic behavior weren't so bad.
I volunteered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
I volunteered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
July 16, 2019
Grace Hides Beneath Her Out of Style And Mismatched Wardrobe, But Mob Hit Man Erik Cannot Stop Fantasizing About The Sexy Librarian - And Their Chemistry Sizzles!
NOTE: Dark Encounter was previously titled Untapped, by Weston and Ali Parker, and is now under their Suspense Romance pen name, Nicole York.
This is the second book in the Secrets Of The Night series. Although it can be read perfectly as a stand-alone, a deeper understanding of some characters and circumstances would be possible if read after the first book.
This mob story starts out dark and violent, grabbing your attention from the first page and keeping it until the end.
Grace Adams, roughly twenty-one years old or so, graduated from NYU early and landed her full time dream job working in the NYU library she worked in as an undergrad. She is a good girl, careful to follow her mother's advice in order to avoid her mother's mistake of getting pregnant at sixteen. She has shied away from boyfriends by hiding her beauty under frumpy, out of style, and mismatched clothes. There is one man, however, for whom she would throw all caution to the wind.
Erik Bertinelli, roughly twenty-six or twenty-seven, would one day be the next mob boss in New York. He is set to inherit the syndicate when his father passes away, but in the meantime he is the go-to hit man. He is good at his job and enjoys it. He was raised for it. Having lost his mother and sister to mob violence, he knows he has no business having any kind of relationship. His father would never approve because he didn't want to see Erik face the loss of another loved one. And what his father said was law.
To get away from it all, Erik spends afternoons reading in the NYU library. It is his secret getaway. The problem is that Erik can't stop fantasizing about the sexy librarian with the odd wardrobe. And since his best childhood friend Nate had fallen hard for her best friend Jenna one month earlier (see the first book in the series), he can't stop hoping for a relationship, for someone to go home to at night.
Grace and Erik have intense chemistry. Despite Grace's complete lack of experience, she stands on her own against Erik's scary, cold ways. She is unwavering and unafraid (generally speaking), which makes her a great match for Erik.
Obviously, the couple has to work out how they each feel about Erik's profession and how much they are willing to risk for one another. It helps that Grace's friend Jenna is outspoken and has her own bad boy boyfriend; Grace thereby has a built in support system.
It seems a little convenient that Grace's brother Thomas inadvertently crosses paths with the syndicate, given his drastic actions and the fact that New York is such a big city. Although this leads to a pivotal point in the plot, it is only a small part of the book and doesn't distract much from the story.
If you haven't read the first book in the series, there might be appear to be some odd coincidences (such as how Grace and Erik's best friends happen to have just started dating while they themselves have been only admiring one another from afar), but enough from the first book is explained later on to clear up most questions satisfactorily.
I would rate this story 4.5 stars if possible. It was well written with complex characters and a complicated storyline that keeps the reader's attention throughout the story. Grace and Erik are easy to love and earn their mob-style HEA.
I received a free advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
NOTE: Dark Encounter was previously titled Untapped, by Weston and Ali Parker, and is now under their Suspense Romance pen name, Nicole York.
This is the second book in the Secrets Of The Night series. Although it can be read perfectly as a stand-alone, a deeper understanding of some characters and circumstances would be possible if read after the first book.
This mob story starts out dark and violent, grabbing your attention from the first page and keeping it until the end.
Grace Adams, roughly twenty-one years old or so, graduated from NYU early and landed her full time dream job working in the NYU library she worked in as an undergrad. She is a good girl, careful to follow her mother's advice in order to avoid her mother's mistake of getting pregnant at sixteen. She has shied away from boyfriends by hiding her beauty under frumpy, out of style, and mismatched clothes. There is one man, however, for whom she would throw all caution to the wind.
Erik Bertinelli, roughly twenty-six or twenty-seven, would one day be the next mob boss in New York. He is set to inherit the syndicate when his father passes away, but in the meantime he is the go-to hit man. He is good at his job and enjoys it. He was raised for it. Having lost his mother and sister to mob violence, he knows he has no business having any kind of relationship. His father would never approve because he didn't want to see Erik face the loss of another loved one. And what his father said was law.
To get away from it all, Erik spends afternoons reading in the NYU library. It is his secret getaway. The problem is that Erik can't stop fantasizing about the sexy librarian with the odd wardrobe. And since his best childhood friend Nate had fallen hard for her best friend Jenna one month earlier (see the first book in the series), he can't stop hoping for a relationship, for someone to go home to at night.
Grace and Erik have intense chemistry. Despite Grace's complete lack of experience, she stands on her own against Erik's scary, cold ways. She is unwavering and unafraid (generally speaking), which makes her a great match for Erik.
Obviously, the couple has to work out how they each feel about Erik's profession and how much they are willing to risk for one another. It helps that Grace's friend Jenna is outspoken and has her own bad boy boyfriend; Grace thereby has a built in support system.
It seems a little convenient that Grace's brother Thomas inadvertently crosses paths with the syndicate, given his drastic actions and the fact that New York is such a big city. Although this leads to a pivotal point in the plot, it is only a small part of the book and doesn't distract much from the story.
If you haven't read the first book in the series, there might be appear to be some odd coincidences (such as how Grace and Erik's best friends happen to have just started dating while they themselves have been only admiring one another from afar), but enough from the first book is explained later on to clear up most questions satisfactorily.
I would rate this story 4.5 stars if possible. It was well written with complex characters and a complicated storyline that keeps the reader's attention throughout the story. Grace and Erik are easy to love and earn their mob-style HEA.
I received a free advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2019
How Do I Love💘 Thee. Let Me Count The Lies
This Review from the Orginal Book, "Untapped" by Weston Parker, April 1, 2017. Dark Encounter is a new version.
He Gives 💘Love a Bad Name!
Erik, another Ultra Bad Seed Alpha Male🐺🍌🌋🔪🔫, lusts from afar. The object of his testosterone fueled lust🍌🍌🔥 is city librarian, Grace💋👗. Grace💋💋 is a virgin, she has lusted after Erik 🐺🍌🌋👅✋too in secret, and is saving herself for him by dressing like a 70 year old librarian👗 from the 40's. She's 😨afraid to approach Erik, but she wants him so bad she will do anything. ANYTHING!💋💋💋💋YEHAW!🐎🐎
Erik🐺🍌🌋✋👅 is from a well known wealthy💰 family, but most don't know they are also a mob👹 family. It's just Erik🐺🔫🔪 and his ruthless dad, Lucien👹🔫🔪, now, because his mother was killed in a car crash and his sister was kidnapped and murdered by a rival syndicate👹🔫🔪.
Erik🐺🍌🌋✋👅 is the main hit man 🔫🔪for his father, the Mob Boss👹. Erik🐺🔫🔪 is also a friend of Nate (from the equally great book TOXIC). Nate🔫🔪 also works for Erik's father in the mob🔫🔪.
Erik🐺👅✋🍌🌋🔫🔪 really wants Grace💋👗 to be his forever and he is super possessive of her, but is convinced his mob👹🔫 lifestyle will only end up getting her killed. He thinks that just being with her to take her virginity💋👗 and have super 🔥hot naaasssty sex🍌✋🌋👅💋 all the time without commitment will keep her safe. He lusts🍌🍌 for her every day but thinks If they don't live together or go out together, she will be safe from his crazed father and other mobsters. He keeps telling himself he doesn't 💘love her so he won't be devastated when she is murdered.
Grace💋👗 doesn't understand in her innocence, and Erik won't come out and tell her. He keeps telling her he's a really bad man🐺🍌🐎🌋👅✋, a killer🔫🔪 but she just doesn't really grasp how dangerous he is.
There is a side plot involving Grace's💋👗 older brother in amongst all the Crazy Alpha Testosterone🔫🔫🔫 this story is soaked in, but I won't be a spoiler!
This is a true thriller because there is a lot going on in This book besides naaasssty bad boy sex😈🍌✋🌋👅 with 🔥hot sexy women💋💋!. You see most of the events in the book through the eyes of Erik, as written by the male author.
This is another great book📕 by Weston Parker, probably a pen name, but with his writing talent, he could call himself a "bad name" and erotic thriller readers would still 💘 love his books📕!
YEHAW! Ride em Bareback🍌🍌, Cowgirl!🐎🐎🐎🐎🐎.
*********** *********
The ARC for Dark Encounter Received from Bookfunnel🌀.
I also got this book with KU.
This Review from the Orginal Book, "Untapped" by Weston Parker, April 1, 2017. Dark Encounter is a new version.
He Gives 💘Love a Bad Name!
Erik, another Ultra Bad Seed Alpha Male🐺🍌🌋🔪🔫, lusts from afar. The object of his testosterone fueled lust🍌🍌🔥 is city librarian, Grace💋👗. Grace💋💋 is a virgin, she has lusted after Erik 🐺🍌🌋👅✋too in secret, and is saving herself for him by dressing like a 70 year old librarian👗 from the 40's. She's 😨afraid to approach Erik, but she wants him so bad she will do anything. ANYTHING!💋💋💋💋YEHAW!🐎🐎
Erik🐺🍌🌋✋👅 is from a well known wealthy💰 family, but most don't know they are also a mob👹 family. It's just Erik🐺🔫🔪 and his ruthless dad, Lucien👹🔫🔪, now, because his mother was killed in a car crash and his sister was kidnapped and murdered by a rival syndicate👹🔫🔪.
Erik🐺🍌🌋✋👅 is the main hit man 🔫🔪for his father, the Mob Boss👹. Erik🐺🔫🔪 is also a friend of Nate (from the equally great book TOXIC). Nate🔫🔪 also works for Erik's father in the mob🔫🔪.
Erik🐺👅✋🍌🌋🔫🔪 really wants Grace💋👗 to be his forever and he is super possessive of her, but is convinced his mob👹🔫 lifestyle will only end up getting her killed. He thinks that just being with her to take her virginity💋👗 and have super 🔥hot naaasssty sex🍌✋🌋👅💋 all the time without commitment will keep her safe. He lusts🍌🍌 for her every day but thinks If they don't live together or go out together, she will be safe from his crazed father and other mobsters. He keeps telling himself he doesn't 💘love her so he won't be devastated when she is murdered.
Grace💋👗 doesn't understand in her innocence, and Erik won't come out and tell her. He keeps telling her he's a really bad man🐺🍌🐎🌋👅✋, a killer🔫🔪 but she just doesn't really grasp how dangerous he is.
There is a side plot involving Grace's💋👗 older brother in amongst all the Crazy Alpha Testosterone🔫🔫🔫 this story is soaked in, but I won't be a spoiler!
This is a true thriller because there is a lot going on in This book besides naaasssty bad boy sex😈🍌✋🌋👅 with 🔥hot sexy women💋💋!. You see most of the events in the book through the eyes of Erik, as written by the male author.
This is another great book📕 by Weston Parker, probably a pen name, but with his writing talent, he could call himself a "bad name" and erotic thriller readers would still 💘 love his books📕!
YEHAW! Ride em Bareback🍌🍌, Cowgirl!🐎🐎🐎🐎🐎.
*********** *********
The ARC for Dark Encounter Received from Bookfunnel🌀.
I also got this book with KU.
July 16, 2019
I love mafia stories even more the bad boys that come with it. With that being said I felt Grace was wayyyy to clingy. She met him at the library, knows what he does for a living and ends up having a huge crush on him. Nothing wrong there until she is begging and pleading with Erik to sleep with her. Tooo whiney and says yes to anything Erik says just so he'll stay with her. I did like the drama that unfolded in the story that's what kept me reading because I wanted to know what happened in the end. I felt bad for Erik knowing his past and could not stand his father. Out of everyone in the book Nate and Jenna were my favorite characters. Last but not least who's Cole what's his story I needed more about him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2019
I loved this book and know you will also. A mafia romance like no other. Some twists, plenty of drama and action galore. Well written with strong characters and an entertaining storyline. Beware once you start reading, you'll find this book hard to put down. This is the second book in the secrets of the Night Series. I read an arc copy and voluntarily chose to review.
July 16, 2019
Just the absolute best story. It had me captivated from the beginning with the hot steamy scenes. I really enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it! Everything I like to read about and more. Such a great story I will read again and again. A keeper!!
July 17, 2019
Couldn't get enough of Erik & Grace's story. Wow. These two sizzle the pages together. Loved it!!! I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review for a copy of the book via an arc program.
January 30, 2021
Story of Grace (the librarian) and hitman Erik Bertinelli
** note this was previously titled Untapped and written by authors Weston and Ali Parker
Nicole York is a new Pen name for them now
Grace hides her body under large hideous looking clothes so she wont draw attention to it. But Erik is intrigued. He comes to the library to heal his soul with the quiet and books.
This is their story but also about Erik and his Mafia family. It is #2 in the series. Can be read as a standalone but better if read in order. It is HEA. I loved this book.
** note this was previously titled Untapped and written by authors Weston and Ali Parker
Nicole York is a new Pen name for them now
Grace hides her body under large hideous looking clothes so she wont draw attention to it. But Erik is intrigued. He comes to the library to heal his soul with the quiet and books.
This is their story but also about Erik and his Mafia family. It is #2 in the series. Can be read as a standalone but better if read in order. It is HEA. I loved this book.
July 27, 2019
Erik Bertinelli is a mob prince destined to become don. His father is a very sick and heartless mafia boss who keeps his son under his thumb. Erik likes his position in the mob and, in fact, enjoys his job as a hit man. The story starts out with a trip through hell as he meets out punishment to an old couple. So far, our minds tell us he is a monster but we haven't seen the entire picture. Erik hides a soft, cultured side when he hides out in the library reading his books and that sooth his soul. He has had his eye on Grace Adams, the librarian who keeps herself covered up in loose-fitting and unorthodox clothing. She doesn't want to draw any attention to herself because her mother has pounded it into her head that the only thing that can come of it is she'll find herself pregnant. Her mother got pregnant at 16 and never let her forget the misery it brought her. Erik sees right through her disguise and thinks she's the most beautiful woman he's ever seen. Grace, too, has seen him every time he comes to the library and slowly begins to fall for this gorgeously dark bad boy. When they do come together for their first conversation, it's obvious that they fit together. Erik's afraid for her that his world is too dark and will ruin her goodness and ultimately, her life. Erik tries to stay away from her but is slowly pulled into her orbit. A slow seduction begins that quickly becomes serious. Erik is willing to give up a lot for her but he can't give up his place in the family. Grace tries to understand and, for awhile, she does. But life turns grisly and their happiness is threatened by people who should love them. Erik suffers a lot for his love but he won't give her up now that he has something else to live for. The shocking, bittersweet ending is perfect, but the epilogue leaves me wanting more! I'm a sucker for a happy ending but I want to see more than 2 weeks into their future together! Well-written with multidimensional characters make this an engaging read!
July 16, 2019
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own and have not been influenced*
Wow, this book was a rollercoaster. When I read the synopsis I was intrigued. I've never read a mafia romance novel so I wanted to dive right in. Going into this book, you are thrown into a scene of violence with not much character development. It is not until after the scene where you learn more about one of the main characters Erik, along with his friend Nate, Nate's girlfriend Jenna and the woman Erik wants more than he can handle at times, Grace.
I have to say the violence was a lot, but I have a thick skin for violence in books so maybe it didn't phase me as much when Erik was torturing people. Speaking if Erik, he's mysterious enough where we still have imagination license to mold him into the character we see him as. He's a conflicted character, wanting to be normal but knowing normal can't work in his lifestyle. The struggle with self in his character was something that was intriguing. When thinking about Grace, although I understood her naivety, I wasn't completely sold on her yes to everything attitude. I felt it was unrealisitc as times and I wanted her at times to play harder to get. A woman can still want her sexual desires without being fully submissive and borderline needy. With that being said, I think the sexual tension between the two characters was real and something that kept me wanting to read more to see what would happen next.
Overall, it was a good read. The plot was simple but enough to portray an intense romance. The side characters added to the lighter parts of the story which added to the reasons why I enjoyed it. I do wish, however, that there was more. We were left in the present and I wanted to see what became of Erik and Grace.
Wow, this book was a rollercoaster. When I read the synopsis I was intrigued. I've never read a mafia romance novel so I wanted to dive right in. Going into this book, you are thrown into a scene of violence with not much character development. It is not until after the scene where you learn more about one of the main characters Erik, along with his friend Nate, Nate's girlfriend Jenna and the woman Erik wants more than he can handle at times, Grace.
I have to say the violence was a lot, but I have a thick skin for violence in books so maybe it didn't phase me as much when Erik was torturing people. Speaking if Erik, he's mysterious enough where we still have imagination license to mold him into the character we see him as. He's a conflicted character, wanting to be normal but knowing normal can't work in his lifestyle. The struggle with self in his character was something that was intriguing. When thinking about Grace, although I understood her naivety, I wasn't completely sold on her yes to everything attitude. I felt it was unrealisitc as times and I wanted her at times to play harder to get. A woman can still want her sexual desires without being fully submissive and borderline needy. With that being said, I think the sexual tension between the two characters was real and something that kept me wanting to read more to see what would happen next.
Overall, it was a good read. The plot was simple but enough to portray an intense romance. The side characters added to the lighter parts of the story which added to the reasons why I enjoyed it. I do wish, however, that there was more. We were left in the present and I wanted to see what became of Erik and Grace.
July 16, 2019
Dark Encounter is the 2nd book in the Secrets Of The Night series and though it can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading Book 1 before as I think it will help with the overall story (as I have not read Book #1 and I have questions about the backstory of some of the characters in Book #2). This is the story of Grace and Erik - Grace is a quiet, recent college graduate who works in her school's library where she dresses awkwardly (so as not to attract the "wrong" kind of attention) and goes about her life very unassumingly. Erik was born into the mafia and spends his days/nights as their hit man. He finds his escape from his current life among the books at the library...disappearing into whatever book he chooses on that day. Despite their completely opposite lives and styles and history - there is an underlying current of attraction between Grace and Erik. Grace is a virgin and is saving herself for Erik - Erik has never been in a real relationship and isn't looking to start one with Grace. His life is too dark and doesn't want to get Grace involved. Circumstances are such (no spoilers!) that they do become involved, and the sparks fly and they do not stop. It is a dark story with ugly events and if this isn't the kind of book you like to read, you may not enjoy it. I don't normally read this type of genre but once I did start, I needed to know what happened - all the way to the end. The characters and story lines will draw you in and won't let go....there are some unexpected twists and turns that I did not see coming but added to the intrigue. In the end, you want nothing more than for Grace and Erik to find some sort of happy ending.... but will they be able to figure out how to be together??
July 28, 2019
I mean, ok, I was seduced by the "bad boy and the prim librarian" scenario - and willing to give it a try and ... no.
I'm debating giving it 1 star in fact, but ... I didn't read much - though I'm not sure how far I got cuz I got rid of this book.
The book starts out with the hero murdering someone he once considered an uncle. A family friend. Literal murder. Puts two bullets into his head.
Then he goes and murders the man's wife ... WHILE HIS FRIEND IS RAPING HER.
He also tells his friend - or at least cohort - it's cool for him to go rape her.
...
And yet I kept reading cuz like - maybe MAYBE that was "just" a prologue and not the hero?
But it was.
Also, it's unclear how old the heroine is. Possibly just 18. Which ... insert 10,000 vomit emojis. It says her older brother is in his "final senior semester" which IMO seemed redundant. Like ... what else would it be? Is it some nod to him being a "super senior"? (although TBH I don't think the author is that "clever" - she's not in her twenties ... she's not nineteen... she's not a sophomore or junior - I did word searches for all those terms, trying to find her age.
Also this book had major BDSM vibes which... more vomit emojis.
And - AND! Her brother apparently owes 20k to some professor - because "vegas wouldn't have been fun without money" ... and they got it cuz "just because" but OH ALSO the professor got to fuck a male student. "He likes ass stuff" so I guess that makes it fine? (Hint: sarcasm.)
... You know what? I am rating this.
This is not romance.
I'm debating giving it 1 star in fact, but ... I didn't read much - though I'm not sure how far I got cuz I got rid of this book.
The book starts out with the hero murdering someone he once considered an uncle. A family friend. Literal murder. Puts two bullets into his head.
Then he goes and murders the man's wife ... WHILE HIS FRIEND IS RAPING HER.
He also tells his friend - or at least cohort - it's cool for him to go rape her.
...
And yet I kept reading cuz like - maybe MAYBE that was "just" a prologue and not the hero?
But it was.
Also, it's unclear how old the heroine is. Possibly just 18. Which ... insert 10,000 vomit emojis. It says her older brother is in his "final senior semester" which IMO seemed redundant. Like ... what else would it be? Is it some nod to him being a "super senior"? (although TBH I don't think the author is that "clever" - she's not in her twenties ... she's not nineteen... she's not a sophomore or junior - I did word searches for all those terms, trying to find her age.
Also this book had major BDSM vibes which... more vomit emojis.
And - AND! Her brother apparently owes 20k to some professor - because "vegas wouldn't have been fun without money" ... and they got it cuz "just because" but OH ALSO the professor got to fuck a male student. "He likes ass stuff" so I guess that makes it fine? (Hint: sarcasm.)
... You know what? I am rating this.
This is not romance.
July 19, 2019
This is book 2 in a series and can be read as a standalone but I have read book 1 by Nicole York [aka Ali and Weston Parker's name for suspense novels]and it is one that is a real rollercoaster ride! We met Eric in book 1 and he is the son of New York's most prolific and successful Mafia crime bosses. Eric is a very effective and efficient murderer but it's not who he wants to be. When he meets Grace, virginal 21 year old librarian, he realises that he wants her more than anything but do they have a chance at love? He really doesn't think that she could handle his occupation and her life with him would be forever dangerous and changed beyond all recognition. But she loves him and for the first time in her life she is really prepared to ignore her mother's opinion. Be prepared to have hankies at the ready as I went through all sorts of emotions reading this book which is a real page turner that you won't want to put down. This is really well written with realistic characters and I was rooting for Eric and Grace - even though I really didn't see how they could have a future together. But this is Ali and Weston Parker writing so I shouldn't have been surprised and delighted with the outcome. This is a really terrific story that I thoroughly enjoyed and will undoubtedly re-read in the future as it was just so good! I received a reader's copy of this and leave my honest opinion of it here. Most definitely recommended.
July 13, 2019
DARK ENCOUNTER Secrets of The Night, Book 2 By Nicole York
Wow! What a story! This is a different perspective on the inter workings of a mafia family. I absolutely stayed up way too late reading as I did not want to put this one down. There is a significant amount of violence, as is to be expected. Erik Bertinelli is the hit man for his father's crime syndicate. Grace Adams is the librarian at the library where Erik comes to unwind in his secret hideaway from his regular life. She is pulled towards him from the start. He makes no apologies for who he is or what he does for a living.
In order to protect her from his father the Don, he is trying to deny her and himself the truth of his heart as he is not supposed to have one. When an ordered hit strikes too close to Grace, can he obey his father? Nicole York makes Erik a somewhat sympathetic character in his quest to love and protect her. (How is it possible with a hit man?) I did get totally sucked into this story wanting to know how it was going to proceed. This totally pulled me in through the ending. I will be looking for more of Nicole York's books. This is a 5 star story.
Wow! What a story! This is a different perspective on the inter workings of a mafia family. I absolutely stayed up way too late reading as I did not want to put this one down. There is a significant amount of violence, as is to be expected. Erik Bertinelli is the hit man for his father's crime syndicate. Grace Adams is the librarian at the library where Erik comes to unwind in his secret hideaway from his regular life. She is pulled towards him from the start. He makes no apologies for who he is or what he does for a living.
In order to protect her from his father the Don, he is trying to deny her and himself the truth of his heart as he is not supposed to have one. When an ordered hit strikes too close to Grace, can he obey his father? Nicole York makes Erik a somewhat sympathetic character in his quest to love and protect her. (How is it possible with a hit man?) I did get totally sucked into this story wanting to know how it was going to proceed. This totally pulled me in through the ending. I will be looking for more of Nicole York's books. This is a 5 star story.
July 17, 2019
This was a fantastic yet dark story (no pun intended) of the son of a mob boss who doesn't believe he is mean to find the happiness and love he has always wanted and a librarian too afraid to step out of the mold (created by her mother) and live life as a normal twenty year old. The chemistry and passion between Erik and Grace was off the chars intense and Erik's relationship with his father was disturbing. Dark Encounter was filled with violence, danger, secrets, good friends, grief, healing, death, a show down between father and son, passion, and love. This mafia romance story was an unexpected surprise with its dark and demented twists and violence, it was unlike any mafia romance that I have read thus far, yet I think it painted a pretty accurate picture of what a mafia family really looks like. This is a must read that will have readers captivated from beginning to end. I would have liked to read an Epilogue that captured what their lives were like a couple or even few years down the line but all in all it was an enjoyably, intense read that I couldn't put down.
"I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book."
"I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book."
July 15, 2019
I didn’t choose the life I’m living, and yet, I own it.
My relief from the violence and blood is through fiction novels.
No one knows and never will. It’s not appropriate, nor would it ever be accepted.
As the son of the most violent mob boss in all of New York, I play the part well.
And love is the last thing on my mind. I’d lose it the minute I got it anyway.
So what’s the point?
But then Grace appears.
A sweet, innocent, virginal librarian with a bend toward romance books, or that’s what I see her holding in her pale fingers all the time.
She’s far more than meets the eye, and from what I can tell, she’s not looking for love either.
Just a dark encounter with a dangerous stranger in a quiet corner of the library.
Good. I’m the right man for the job.
Wow! What a read! Erik & Grace's story is not an easy one and was very well written. Erik's past is a hard to read at times but necessary as to understand who he is today.
My relief from the violence and blood is through fiction novels.
No one knows and never will. It’s not appropriate, nor would it ever be accepted.
As the son of the most violent mob boss in all of New York, I play the part well.
And love is the last thing on my mind. I’d lose it the minute I got it anyway.
So what’s the point?
But then Grace appears.
A sweet, innocent, virginal librarian with a bend toward romance books, or that’s what I see her holding in her pale fingers all the time.
She’s far more than meets the eye, and from what I can tell, she’s not looking for love either.
Just a dark encounter with a dangerous stranger in a quiet corner of the library.
Good. I’m the right man for the job.
Wow! What a read! Erik & Grace's story is not an easy one and was very well written. Erik's past is a hard to read at times but necessary as to understand who he is today.
July 14, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "DARK ENCOUNTER" SECRETS OF THE NIGHT BOOK 2 This is one unique interesting storyline for a Mafia Romance it's full of suspense, action, violence, abuse, intrigue, danger, with twists that hold your interest til the very end.
Erik is the son of the Mafia Boss of all of NYC he plays his part and likes to spend his time at tbe library he has a thirst for knowledge this where he meets Grace the sweet innocent librarian.
Erik and Grace are definitely attracted to one another their not looking for love just a dark hot sexy as sin encounter she wants him to take her virginity even though she knows who he is.
When Erik dad finds out about his feelings for Grace things don't go well for him will they ever get their HEA you must get this amazing book to find out I definitely recommend this was an awesome read.
Erik is the son of the Mafia Boss of all of NYC he plays his part and likes to spend his time at tbe library he has a thirst for knowledge this where he meets Grace the sweet innocent librarian.
Erik and Grace are definitely attracted to one another their not looking for love just a dark hot sexy as sin encounter she wants him to take her virginity even though she knows who he is.
When Erik dad finds out about his feelings for Grace things don't go well for him will they ever get their HEA you must get this amazing book to find out I definitely recommend this was an awesome read.
July 15, 2019
Wow!!!! This book really held my interest in regard to how the mafia operates. Erik is known as a murderer within the mafia organization. He is next in line after his father, who is grooming him to take over for him as the head of the organization. To relieve the stress and tension from Erik’s job he goes to the library on the top floor to read books in the History department. He is also there to get the attention of Grace, someone he would like to know. Grace the librarian wants to entice Erik in anyway. As the story goes on Erik gets very involved with Grace which his father does not want to happen. The strong disciplines that Erik’s father takes to make sure he does not get involved with Grace is eye opening. I really enjoyed reading this mafia romance. I strongly recommend this read. I voluntarily reviewed this ARC book for my honest review.
July 15, 2019
This is an intensely dark look into the inside life of the mafia family. The author does an amazing job bringing the story to life with her descriptive writing and vividly detailed scenes. Her characters are strong and well developed and have a combustible chemistry together. The supporting characters play a huge role in bringing the story around. It's filled with extreme violence , suspense,danger and has so many twists I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to see what happened next. She does a fantastic job building the tension,fear and desperation as well as the chemistry and love Grace and Erik have for one another even though they fear it. I absolutely loved this book and would highly recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
July 16, 2019
So in this beast of a tale, Erik cannot get over his obsession with the "good girl" librarian Grace. He knows that his life within the Syndicate is deadly for her, but the intense pull between them is something they cannot ignore, no matter how hard they try. Demons of the past and the present are about to intervene. Erik knew this would happen. Grace thought she could handle it, they're about to test their abilities as humans and hopefully, come out on the other side.
What a devilishly crafted masterpiece! This dark, gritty tale was raw and full of emotional ups and downs, I found myself feeling the emotions right along with these characters. Still, it gave us a funny side- with copious amounts fan my face hotness. I loved every minute of this crazy train ride! It was worth the wait! I know I will be reread this soon!! I wish I could give this more than 5 Stars!
What a devilishly crafted masterpiece! This dark, gritty tale was raw and full of emotional ups and downs, I found myself feeling the emotions right along with these characters. Still, it gave us a funny side- with copious amounts fan my face hotness. I loved every minute of this crazy train ride! It was worth the wait! I know I will be reread this soon!! I wish I could give this more than 5 Stars!
July 16, 2019
ONE WHOPPING HOT ADVENTURE!!!
Deep, Dark and Intense! This is one intriguing multitude of events that leave you breathless, craving more. Combating all the trials and tribulations along with a horde of twists and turns bring this baby together impeccably. A spinning, twisting vortex of inadvertent happenstance and surprising mishaps catapults your swirling emotions into play fluidly. All the drama, angst, danger and suspense blaze through melding this baby together one jagged piece at a time. The characters are authentic and realistic with such traits and qualities that blend with one another in a perfect balance. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions you have no problem picturing each scenario creating a colorful backdrop that makes the storyline pop. Remarkable job Nicole, thanks for sharing.
Deep, Dark and Intense! This is one intriguing multitude of events that leave you breathless, craving more. Combating all the trials and tribulations along with a horde of twists and turns bring this baby together impeccably. A spinning, twisting vortex of inadvertent happenstance and surprising mishaps catapults your swirling emotions into play fluidly. All the drama, angst, danger and suspense blaze through melding this baby together one jagged piece at a time. The characters are authentic and realistic with such traits and qualities that blend with one another in a perfect balance. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions you have no problem picturing each scenario creating a colorful backdrop that makes the storyline pop. Remarkable job Nicole, thanks for sharing.
July 15, 2019
This was one dark and delicious read, just how I like it!
Eric and Grace had an amazing chemistry and their connection was the only light in this story. There were lots of super hot steamy scenes that will definitely leave you hot and bothered. I also liked that the dealings of a mafia family were described in such great details. This book was full of danger, intrigue and suspense which kept me glued to my reader until the end.
The only reason I removed one star is the ending which didn’t really seemed like HEA. Maybe if there was an epilogue it would feel more like a closure.
Also, there should definitely be a trigger warning at the beginning. I didn’t mind that level of violence but I’m sure lots of people do so better to give them a heads up.
Eric and Grace had an amazing chemistry and their connection was the only light in this story. There were lots of super hot steamy scenes that will definitely leave you hot and bothered. I also liked that the dealings of a mafia family were described in such great details. This book was full of danger, intrigue and suspense which kept me glued to my reader until the end.
The only reason I removed one star is the ending which didn’t really seemed like HEA. Maybe if there was an epilogue it would feel more like a closure.
Also, there should definitely be a trigger warning at the beginning. I didn’t mind that level of violence but I’m sure lots of people do so better to give them a heads up.
July 15, 2019
Dark Encounter follows Erik Bertinelli, the hitman to New York’s mafia boss, and the sexy librarian Grace Adams. While Grace spends her days hiding behind ugly clothes in the New York library, Erik spends his killing whoever his father tells him too, though when their paths cross, Grace begins to want more from the bad boy. Erik comes to the library as an escape from his everyday life, but when he sees Grace, he realizes that he wants to get to know her more..even if it could end everything else in his life. As the pair dive into a steamy whirlwind full of her wildest fantasies. Will Grace be enough to keep the hitman? Or will Erik’s job keep them apart forever?
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book.
July 16, 2019
This was a Mafia book to the nth degree! Eric is the only living relative of the current Boss having lost his mother and younger sister. His father has made him his hitman but he spends half of his time at the campus library reading books that keep him balanced. There he can't help but notice an employee, a long-skirted, backward dressing virgin, who also dreams of giving her virginity to Eric. The main problem is that his father has gone completely bonkers, cruelly treating Eric to make sure he loves no one except the syndicate he's rearing him to take over. This murderer coupled with an innocent against the express wishes of his tyrannical and sadistic father makes for sad and thrilling reading.
July 17, 2019
Erik is the son of a Mafia mob boss. He has made him his enforcer. Erik doesn’t want to follow his father’s path but after his mother and sister were killed he feels that he has no choice. He finds peace by going to the library and reading but also he watch Grace the librarian. She dresses like an old lady but he can see that is not her. He wants her but tries to stay away. Grace sees Erik and wants him too but has been told that he’s bad but she doesn’t believe the. They finally get together and it fireworks but he’s trying to keep her a secret to keep her safe from the family’s enemies and his father. What will happen when he does? Will they get a chance to be together? I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
July 14, 2019
Wow. Just WOW. I felt like I needed to have a cigarette after reading and I have never smoked. The chemistry between Grace and Erik is undeniable and has been ever since the first book. Grace is the goody goody librarian that wants to lose her virginity but not just to anyone, only to Erik. Erik is the bad boy mafia son who kills for a living. Grace knows what he does and still wants to be with him. Love has a funny way of looking the other way. Will they make this work? Can they love each other with all of the danger that surrounds Erik? You are going to have to read to find out. You will not be able to put the book down once you start, so make sure you have the time to finish it.
July 15, 2019
(Received a copy of this via ARC for a honest review)
The book started a little soon for me with not much setting up of the characters (although it is the second of the series so maybe others don't need the same introduction I did) but once I got into the swing of it I couldn't stop reading. Really good storyline that you can't guess whats going to happen next. That being said it did end very suddenly leaving me with a few questions about the main pair.
Would definitely recommend reading this book but perhaps after the first as it may be a little easier to understand all the characters that way. Also if you don't like swearing this may not be the book for you!
The book started a little soon for me with not much setting up of the characters (although it is the second of the series so maybe others don't need the same introduction I did) but once I got into the swing of it I couldn't stop reading. Really good storyline that you can't guess whats going to happen next. That being said it did end very suddenly leaving me with a few questions about the main pair.
Would definitely recommend reading this book but perhaps after the first as it may be a little easier to understand all the characters that way. Also if you don't like swearing this may not be the book for you!
July 15, 2019
It's raw, brutal, and beautiful. After Dark Obsession, I've been anxiously waiting for Grace and Erik's story. I knew it would be good, but I wasn't prepared for how completely blown away I am. The overwhelming emotions and impossible situations that are piled into this book left me speechless. The relationship between Grace and Erik is compelling. He gives her the courage to be truly herself and she inspires him to want to be a better man. I cannot wait to see what the team behind Nicole York brings us next. If it's even half the book this one was, it'll be brilliant.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author.
July 15, 2019
Wow!! 4.5 stars Unique and intense at times, mafia romantic suspense. Ms. York writes intense stories that you can’t put down. Of course being a mafia story there is always darkness and violence mixed with love and loyalty. Eric is the Don’s son and he wants Grace no matter what. The only segment that took away from the story for me was Erik getting beaten by his father, more than once. Otherwise this book had characters that one minute you’d like to smack then want to hug. These books grab your interest so that you can’t go to sleep until you finish the book. I received a complementary copy of this book and chose to write a review. I look forward to reading future books by Ms. York.
July 16, 2019
These characters are very well written, I enjoyed the way that both Erik and Grace felt towards each other, but both took such a long time to actually act upon their feelings. I giggled a few times at a couple of the antics of the characters. The way that Erik still noticed Grace with all her armor on, and she didn't seem totally terrified of him, for his bad boy ways. I got a bit of dislike for a couple of characters as is normal. Overall this was a great second story with these characters and am looking forward to another book coming soon.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via Bad Boy Update.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via Bad Boy Update.
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