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Guns n' Boys #10
Black Lies
"That man is not your fairytale ending."
Griffith has spent two of the most amazing years with his boyfriend Mark, who is undoubtedly The One. Mark is everything Griffith could want in a man. Sexy, kind, always there for him, showering him with gifts and anticipating his needs.
Until one wrong turn sends them crashing into Mark’s past, and suddenly Griff doesn’t even know who his boyfriend is anymore. A spy? A mafioso?
Or a ruthless criminal who has lied to Griff about his identity all along, hiding his brutality under charming smiles.
Is there room for love in a relationship based on lies?
One thing is certain: Griff can’t know what the future holds for him and Mark until he discovers the truth. Too bad the truth is soaked in blood.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: mafia, organized crime, family ties, secrets, European setting, dance, deception, violence, fish out of water, established couple, lies, trust
Genre: M/M romance, suspense
Length: ~70,000 words (Book 10 in the series)
WARNING: Adult content. Scorching hot, explicit love scenes. Dark humor.
Griffith has spent two of the most amazing years with his boyfriend Mark, who is undoubtedly The One. Mark is everything Griffith could want in a man. Sexy, kind, always there for him, showering him with gifts and anticipating his needs.
Until one wrong turn sends them crashing into Mark’s past, and suddenly Griff doesn’t even know who his boyfriend is anymore. A spy? A mafioso?
Or a ruthless criminal who has lied to Griff about his identity all along, hiding his brutality under charming smiles.
Is there room for love in a relationship based on lies?
One thing is certain: Griff can’t know what the future holds for him and Mark until he discovers the truth. Too bad the truth is soaked in blood.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: mafia, organized crime, family ties, secrets, European setting, dance, deception, violence, fish out of water, established couple, lies, trust
Genre: M/M romance, suspense
Length: ~70,000 words (Book 10 in the series)
WARNING: Adult content. Scorching hot, explicit love scenes. Dark humor.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 20, 2020
34 people are currently reading
522 people want to read
About the author
K.A. Merikan
131 books3,039 followers(Goodreads profile run by Kat)
K. A. Merikan is a duo of queer writers who don’t believe in following the well-trodden path. In their books you can dip your toe into dangerous romance with mafiosi, outlaw bikers and bad boys, all from the safety of your sofa. They love the weird and wonderful, stepping out of the box, and bending stereotypes both in life and in fiction. Their stories don’t shy away from exploring the darker side of M/M romance, and feature a variety of anti-heroes, rebels, misfits, and underdogs who go against the grain.
Be prepared for shocking twists, dark humor, raw emotions, and sizzling hot scenes.
K.A. Merikan also writes steamy M/M romcoms as Devon Doe.
e-mail: kamerikan@gmail.com
More information about ongoing projects, works in progress and publishing at:
K.A. Merikan’s author page: http://kamerikan.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan
K. A. Merikan is a duo of queer writers who don’t believe in following the well-trodden path. In their books you can dip your toe into dangerous romance with mafiosi, outlaw bikers and bad boys, all from the safety of your sofa. They love the weird and wonderful, stepping out of the box, and bending stereotypes both in life and in fiction. Their stories don’t shy away from exploring the darker side of M/M romance, and feature a variety of anti-heroes, rebels, misfits, and underdogs who go against the grain.
Be prepared for shocking twists, dark humor, raw emotions, and sizzling hot scenes.
K.A. Merikan also writes steamy M/M romcoms as Devon Doe.
e-mail: kamerikan@gmail.com
More information about ongoing projects, works in progress and publishing at:
K.A. Merikan’s author page: http://kamerikan.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
April 4, 2020
4.5
I started reading this series almost five years ago and here we are at book ten.It never gets boring,I look forward to each book with the same enthusiasm every time and have never been disappointed.
I can't remember which book Mark was introduced in and at first I didn't warm to him but if ever a character has grown and matured it's him.Honestly,I can't get enough of him. Deciding to leave his past behind him,for the last two years he's been living a low key-almost blissful life with Griffith. But,his past life is about to make a dramatic return and he can't hide things from his boyfriend any longer.
I loved the direction the Authors took with this book as the whole story moves to it's conclusion. It's a fine line Mark has been walking but at the end of the day he just wants to protect Griff from the darkness of his world.But the more lies that are told,the more Griff wants answers but will he still want Mark when the truth is revealed.
Mark went full throttle into badass mode and I couldn't get enough.Talk about hot!! He wrestled with his love for Griff and his commitment to his family and the outcome? ....you'll just have to read it and find out but suffice to say fans of this series will absolutely not be disappointed.The closer we get to the end of these highly complex characters lives and their story,I'm excited and dreading it at the same time.I know i won't want to say goodbye...
Review copy.
I started reading this series almost five years ago and here we are at book ten.It never gets boring,I look forward to each book with the same enthusiasm every time and have never been disappointed.
I can't remember which book Mark was introduced in and at first I didn't warm to him but if ever a character has grown and matured it's him.Honestly,I can't get enough of him. Deciding to leave his past behind him,for the last two years he's been living a low key-almost blissful life with Griffith. But,his past life is about to make a dramatic return and he can't hide things from his boyfriend any longer.
I loved the direction the Authors took with this book as the whole story moves to it's conclusion. It's a fine line Mark has been walking but at the end of the day he just wants to protect Griff from the darkness of his world.But the more lies that are told,the more Griff wants answers but will he still want Mark when the truth is revealed.
"How many people have you killed that it came to you so easily(...)"
"I don't know.At some point I stopped counting."
Mark went full throttle into badass mode and I couldn't get enough.Talk about hot!! He wrestled with his love for Griff and his commitment to his family and the outcome? ....you'll just have to read it and find out but suffice to say fans of this series will absolutely not be disappointed.The closer we get to the end of these highly complex characters lives and their story,I'm excited and dreading it at the same time.I know i won't want to say goodbye...
Review copy.
May 26, 2025
“Every second of having you under me is worth more than you can imagine. I don’t want you to be afraid of me.”
K.A. just keep raising the damn stakes. And they write the best high-stakes love stories, so...
This is the shortest and fastest-paced novel of the series so far. We’re all over Europe, and we’ve got tension out the yin yang, major distrust, anxiety, danger, chase, abduction, escape, secret trips, (get rid of the bodies!), secret identities…and, basically, non-stop action.
It would seem a bit sus that A) Mark bought a Maserati because Griff liked it, and B) Griff still thinks everything is legit…but again, this is Griff we’re talking about, so yeah. Like in Paris…Mark, gun in one hand, brass knuckles on the other—and Griff is most concerned with Mark threatening to out Francesco. Such a sweet summer child.
Mark still has the cutest pet names for Griff and I’m totally here for it.
Their passion is just as fiery two years on—on the ferry (yay for semi-public), by the fireplace, making up in the garage, and shacking up in Italy.
It’s ironic to see the parallels between M&G and S&D. Different ways, but communication issues imperil their relationship, too.
I’ve never been able to stand Charlotte, and she’s arguably at her worst here. There’s a special place in hell for people who lie about rape. The fact that it takes (spoiler spoiler spoiler) for her to at least pretend to let go of her obsession with Mark is deplorable. How many times does he have to save her life?!?
The cabin fever is pretty amusing—seeing who will crack first.
In the two books we see Griff, he grows (in distinctive ways) as much as Mark does in his first five. Astonishing transformation.
The family reunion is touching, yet crazy as always. Second-best ending of the series (what could possibly beat Chokehold’s conclusion?). Something tells me there will be fireworks in the finale…
“You’re my whole world. You know that, right?”
K.A. just keep raising the damn stakes. And they write the best high-stakes love stories, so...
This is the shortest and fastest-paced novel of the series so far. We’re all over Europe, and we’ve got tension out the yin yang, major distrust, anxiety, danger, chase, abduction, escape, secret trips, (get rid of the bodies!), secret identities…and, basically, non-stop action.
It would seem a bit sus that A) Mark bought a Maserati because Griff liked it, and B) Griff still thinks everything is legit…but again, this is Griff we’re talking about, so yeah. Like in Paris…Mark, gun in one hand, brass knuckles on the other—and Griff is most concerned with Mark threatening to out Francesco. Such a sweet summer child.
Mark still has the cutest pet names for Griff and I’m totally here for it.
Their passion is just as fiery two years on—on the ferry (yay for semi-public), by the fireplace, making up in the garage, and shacking up in Italy.
It’s ironic to see the parallels between M&G and S&D. Different ways, but communication issues imperil their relationship, too.
I’ve never been able to stand Charlotte, and she’s arguably at her worst here. There’s a special place in hell for people who lie about rape. The fact that it takes (spoiler spoiler spoiler) for her to at least pretend to let go of her obsession with Mark is deplorable. How many times does he have to save her life?!?
The cabin fever is pretty amusing—seeing who will crack first.
In the two books we see Griff, he grows (in distinctive ways) as much as Mark does in his first five. Astonishing transformation.
The family reunion is touching, yet crazy as always. Second-best ending of the series (what could possibly beat Chokehold’s conclusion?). Something tells me there will be fireworks in the finale…
“You’re my whole world. You know that, right?”
![Profile Image for Imme [trying to crawl out of hiatus] van Gorp.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1700013408i%2F101358081._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 8, 2025
|| 1.5 stars ||
This was bad. And so boring. I don’t even want to write a review for it, because I simply don’t have the energy left to complain about this series. It’s definitely time to throw in the towel.
There have been good installments, but the enjoyment has just completely dried up and almost all the characters and relationships have turned insufferable. Not to mention, the plot is so repetitive and mind-numbingly tedious, I can’t help but skim most of it.
I wish this series had ended ages ago, because the authors have ruined everything by dragging it out too long. Dom and Seth’s relationship was thrown to pieces a while ago, and Griff and Mark shouldn’t have gotten this second book.
'Guns n' Boys' series:
1. He Is Poison - 3.0 stars
2. He Is Mine - 4.0 stars
3. Homicidal Instinct - 2.5 stars
4. Swamp Blood - 3.0 stars
5. Chokehold - 3.5 stars
6. Bloodbath - 2.0 stars
7. Gilded Agony - 1.5 stars
8. A Breath of Innocence - 3.0 stars
10. Black Lies - 1.5 stars
Other K.A. Merikan books:
‘Sex & Mayhem’ series - var. ratings
Mr. Jaguar - 3.0 stars
Not Like Other Boys - 4.5 stars
The Cattery - 3.5 stars
Break My Shell - 3.5 stars
The Black Sheep and The Rotten Apple - 3.5 stars
‘Kings of Hell MC’ series - var. ratings
Wrong Way Home - 4.0 star
‘Wrong Side of the Tracks’ series - var. ratings
This was bad. And so boring. I don’t even want to write a review for it, because I simply don’t have the energy left to complain about this series. It’s definitely time to throw in the towel.
There have been good installments, but the enjoyment has just completely dried up and almost all the characters and relationships have turned insufferable. Not to mention, the plot is so repetitive and mind-numbingly tedious, I can’t help but skim most of it.
I wish this series had ended ages ago, because the authors have ruined everything by dragging it out too long. Dom and Seth’s relationship was thrown to pieces a while ago, and Griff and Mark shouldn’t have gotten this second book.
'Guns n' Boys' series:
1. He Is Poison - 3.0 stars
2. He Is Mine - 4.0 stars
3. Homicidal Instinct - 2.5 stars
4. Swamp Blood - 3.0 stars
5. Chokehold - 3.5 stars
6. Bloodbath - 2.0 stars
7. Gilded Agony - 1.5 stars
8. A Breath of Innocence - 3.0 stars
10. Black Lies - 1.5 stars
Other K.A. Merikan books:
‘Sex & Mayhem’ series - var. ratings
Mr. Jaguar - 3.0 stars
Not Like Other Boys - 4.5 stars
The Cattery - 3.5 stars
Break My Shell - 3.5 stars
The Black Sheep and The Rotten Apple - 3.5 stars
‘Kings of Hell MC’ series - var. ratings
Wrong Way Home - 4.0 star
‘Wrong Side of the Tracks’ series - var. ratings
April 27, 2023
Merikan’s descriptions are out of this world fantastic, here are some of my favorites from this story:
like a warm duvet on a cold day
like a brown diamond under the long curl of eyelashes
like a sip of warm cocoa on a winter day
like a warm blanket on his shoulders
like a rabid dog about to tear his throat open
like a young bull too brave for his own good
like a human-shaped pudding
like a dense spider web
like a garotte swung over his head
like a pomegranate filled with maggots
like a cauliflower rotting from the bulbous middle
like a rabid panther locked behind thick bars
like a pin in the body of a butterfly
like a virtuoso might a fiddle he’d owned all his life
like a snake, fragrant from the dancing and arousal
like a chair that lost two of its legs
like a gunshot without a silencer
like a giant spider creeping up on an unsuspecting victim
like a shell crumbling around the thick bundle of emotions
like a zombie trying to find that last living, breathing human
like a wolf after a winter of starvation
like an aroused stud
like a cat happy to see its owner
like a stud dog holding his bitch in place
like a vacuum in his chest
It reads like poetry, an ode to Mark and Griff.
I really enjoyed this 10th in the series and second book with Griff and Mark. It was so fun watching Mark slowly turn into a miniature Dom. And that ending scene when Griff firmly stepped into his future was perfect.
*Side thought, why are Charlotte and Dana so annoying?
like a warm duvet on a cold day
like a brown diamond under the long curl of eyelashes
like a sip of warm cocoa on a winter day
like a warm blanket on his shoulders
like a rabid dog about to tear his throat open
like a young bull too brave for his own good
like a human-shaped pudding
like a dense spider web
like a garotte swung over his head
like a pomegranate filled with maggots
like a cauliflower rotting from the bulbous middle
like a rabid panther locked behind thick bars
like a pin in the body of a butterfly
like a virtuoso might a fiddle he’d owned all his life
like a snake, fragrant from the dancing and arousal
like a chair that lost two of its legs
like a gunshot without a silencer
like a giant spider creeping up on an unsuspecting victim
like a shell crumbling around the thick bundle of emotions
like a zombie trying to find that last living, breathing human
like a wolf after a winter of starvation
like an aroused stud
like a cat happy to see its owner
like a stud dog holding his bitch in place
like a vacuum in his chest
It reads like poetry, an ode to Mark and Griff.
I really enjoyed this 10th in the series and second book with Griff and Mark. It was so fun watching Mark slowly turn into a miniature Dom. And that ending scene when Griff firmly stepped into his future was perfect.
*Side thought, why are Charlotte and Dana so annoying?
February 21, 2020
4,5 STARS
I loved this one!! The writing was amazing and we get so much action!!! Well it's expected with all the wonderful characters in this series 😉
This is book #10 in Guns n' Boys series by K.A. Merikan. The books must be read in order for a better understanding of the characters and the story.
It's Mark and Griffith's second story. We get the beginning of their story in book #8 A Breath of Innocence. They are together for 2 years new, happy as ever. Everything seems to be perfect. But only for a little while, because their world crumbles.
Griff was sweet and sheltered. He was so happy, having such a perfect boyfriend in Mark. When Mark's past comes into their present with a vengeance, Griff doesn't trust Mark or himself. He's questioning everything.
This book reminded me of Seth and Dom's beginning. Dom was strong and dangerous, while Seth seemed so fragile and complained all the time. They've come such a long way... But back to Griff and Mark, their whole relationship might fall apart, now that so many secrets are revealed.
I must admit I enjoyed Mark's hardened attitude. When in need, he transformed into a very strong and capable man. He was so protective and he reminded me of DOM so much!!! Seems like his adoptive fathers rubbed on him.
I had a hard time accepting Griff's struggles and actions... I do understand he was sheltered, but there were some things he did that annoyed me. Well I still loved Seth when he gave an interview to a national TV while being a fugitive, so I think Griff wasn't that bad 😛
The last chapters really got me on the edge of my seat. I was looking forward to Griff's choice: trust and follow Mark or back away to a safer life.
I absolutely loved Seth and Dom's appearance here!!! I can't wait to see what the future will bring. To say I am dying to read the next book is a huge understatement. As much as I would love to get the next book right now, I can't believe this series will end with book #11 😭
This series is one of my favorite MM series. The love I feel for these men is impossible to put into words, so I won't even try. Read this series!!! It's THE BEST!!!
ARC kindly provided by the authors.
I loved this one!! The writing was amazing and we get so much action!!! Well it's expected with all the wonderful characters in this series 😉
This is book #10 in Guns n' Boys series by K.A. Merikan. The books must be read in order for a better understanding of the characters and the story.
It's Mark and Griffith's second story. We get the beginning of their story in book #8 A Breath of Innocence. They are together for 2 years new, happy as ever. Everything seems to be perfect. But only for a little while, because their world crumbles.
Griff was sweet and sheltered. He was so happy, having such a perfect boyfriend in Mark. When Mark's past comes into their present with a vengeance, Griff doesn't trust Mark or himself. He's questioning everything.
This book reminded me of Seth and Dom's beginning. Dom was strong and dangerous, while Seth seemed so fragile and complained all the time. They've come such a long way... But back to Griff and Mark, their whole relationship might fall apart, now that so many secrets are revealed.
I must admit I enjoyed Mark's hardened attitude. When in need, he transformed into a very strong and capable man. He was so protective and he reminded me of DOM so much!!! Seems like his adoptive fathers rubbed on him.
I had a hard time accepting Griff's struggles and actions... I do understand he was sheltered, but there were some things he did that annoyed me. Well I still loved Seth when he gave an interview to a national TV while being a fugitive, so I think Griff wasn't that bad 😛
The last chapters really got me on the edge of my seat. I was looking forward to Griff's choice: trust and follow Mark or back away to a safer life.
I absolutely loved Seth and Dom's appearance here!!! I can't wait to see what the future will bring. To say I am dying to read the next book is a huge understatement. As much as I would love to get the next book right now, I can't believe this series will end with book #11 😭
This series is one of my favorite MM series. The love I feel for these men is impossible to put into words, so I won't even try. Read this series!!! It's THE BEST!!!
ARC kindly provided by the authors.
![Profile Image for moonlight ☾ [semi-hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1645500038i%2F37448930._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
January 6, 2023
3.5 stars ☆
don't let my 3/3.5 star ratings for books eight and this one fool you. i didn't hate Mark and Griffith's story, i actually liked their dynamic, how different they felt from Seth and Dom (refreshing and innocent, unlike how most of the tone of this series has been dark and gritty), but i wouldn't say they were memorable to me, personally. i liked reading about their story and how much they grew from book eight to this... but that was it.
what i enjoyed about this one in particular is how there's much more drama and angst (compared to book eight, where Griffith was left in the dark for most of it bc Mark didn't want him to be "tainted with his darkness" so he kept secrets) and Griffith was finally revealed to Mark's world and i liked that bc, although Mark was tryna run away from his past, it doesn't change the fact that the mafia life is, unfortunately, part of who he is - similar to how it's not something Seth and Dom can run away from forever. it's also cute to see Griffith towards the end adjust to that life bc of his love for Mark. 🥹
don't let my 3/3.5 star ratings for books eight and this one fool you. i didn't hate Mark and Griffith's story, i actually liked their dynamic, how different they felt from Seth and Dom (refreshing and innocent, unlike how most of the tone of this series has been dark and gritty), but i wouldn't say they were memorable to me, personally. i liked reading about their story and how much they grew from book eight to this... but that was it.
what i enjoyed about this one in particular is how there's much more drama and angst (compared to book eight, where Griffith was left in the dark for most of it bc Mark didn't want him to be "tainted with his darkness" so he kept secrets) and Griffith was finally revealed to Mark's world and i liked that bc, although Mark was tryna run away from his past, it doesn't change the fact that the mafia life is, unfortunately, part of who he is - similar to how it's not something Seth and Dom can run away from forever. it's also cute to see Griffith towards the end adjust to that life bc of his love for Mark. 🥹
Read
February 10, 2020
The long awaited!!! COVER REVEAL <3
GUNS N' BOYS: BLACK LIES (BOOK 10)
Design by the wonderful Natasha Snow :)
You can order the book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084MGN7GL
BLURB:
"That man is not your fairytale ending."
Griffith has spent two of the most amazing years with his boyfriend Mark, who is undoubtedly The One. Mark is everything Griffith could want in a man. Sexy, kind, always there for him, showering him with gifts and anticipating his needs.
Until one wrong turn sends them crashing into Mark’s past, and suddenly Griff doesn’t even know who his boyfriend is anymore. A spy? A mafioso?
Or a ruthless criminal who has lied to Griff about his identity all along, hiding his brutality under charming smiles.
Is there room for love in a relationship based on lies?
One thing is certain: Griff can’t know what the future holds for him and Mark until he discovers the truth. Too bad the truth is soaked in blood.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: mafia, organized crime, family ties, secrets, European setting, dance, deception, violence, fish out of water, established couple, lies, trust
Genre: M/M romance, suspense
Length: ~70,000 words (Book 10 in the series)
WARNING: Adult content. Violence, scorching hot, explicit love scenes. Dark humor.
February 20, 2020
4 Stars!
I was surprised to get another book starring Mark and Griffith. But now reading it I know that it was needed.
Mark and Griffith have been living their best life for the last two years and things have been easy breezy. Griffith knows he has found the perfect man to be his life partner. Mark shows him all the love and affection he has ever dreamed of having in a partner. He's perfect. Maybe too perfect. Mark's love for Griffith runs deep. He can't fathom his life without this man. He's left his past where he hopes it stays, in the past. But you can't live the life Mark has without your demons coming back to haunt you. The perfect life he has built with Griff comes crashing down hard and the other half of him he kept hidden from Griff is exposed in the most bloodiest way.
Griff is stricken with fear to realize he doesn't know his lover. That he has been with a stranger this entire time. That the man he isn't who he saw living the rest of his years with. Or is he?
Mark is struggling with his loyalty to his family and trying to save his relationship with Griff. But to save his relationship he might have to tell some truths that will expose his family. Can he trust Griff with these truths and will he still look at Mark the same after he sees him for the man he really is?
These guys have never had any major fights or had to deal with anything more grueling then where to eat. So you can only imagine how much they are struggling in their relationship. They are fighting enemies and each other throughout this book. Mark put his life on the line numerous times to make sure he keeps Griff safe. Griff on the other hand annoyed me a few times which took some of my enjoyment out of the book. He took unnecessary risks. That's always a pet peeve of mine. But in the end his innocence reminded me of a younger Seth.
I can't wait to get my hands on the next book. It is gonna be bittersweet.
Happy reading dolls! xx
I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review.
I was surprised to get another book starring Mark and Griffith. But now reading it I know that it was needed.
Mark and Griffith have been living their best life for the last two years and things have been easy breezy. Griffith knows he has found the perfect man to be his life partner. Mark shows him all the love and affection he has ever dreamed of having in a partner. He's perfect. Maybe too perfect. Mark's love for Griffith runs deep. He can't fathom his life without this man. He's left his past where he hopes it stays, in the past. But you can't live the life Mark has without your demons coming back to haunt you. The perfect life he has built with Griff comes crashing down hard and the other half of him he kept hidden from Griff is exposed in the most bloodiest way.
Griff is stricken with fear to realize he doesn't know his lover. That he has been with a stranger this entire time. That the man he isn't who he saw living the rest of his years with. Or is he?
Mark is struggling with his loyalty to his family and trying to save his relationship with Griff. But to save his relationship he might have to tell some truths that will expose his family. Can he trust Griff with these truths and will he still look at Mark the same after he sees him for the man he really is?
These guys have never had any major fights or had to deal with anything more grueling then where to eat. So you can only imagine how much they are struggling in their relationship. They are fighting enemies and each other throughout this book. Mark put his life on the line numerous times to make sure he keeps Griff safe. Griff on the other hand annoyed me a few times which took some of my enjoyment out of the book. He took unnecessary risks. That's always a pet peeve of mine. But in the end his innocence reminded me of a younger Seth.
I can't wait to get my hands on the next book. It is gonna be bittersweet.
Happy reading dolls! xx
I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2020
4.5 ★
For two years, Mark Vincitore and Griffith Elswood have been living blissfully together in London. Savoring their time together, Mark thought he could move forward with Griff until suddenly his past comes calling. Though Mark is loyal to his family, protecting Griff is his priority.
Told in dual POV, the sudden shift into Mark’s violent world scares Griff and makes him question what they’ve shared since Mark hid that part of his life. Trying to reconcile the adoring Mark he knows with the man who can kill in a blink of an eye, Griff must do what is right for his feelings and own safety.
Since Mark and Griff met, and knowing Mark couldn’t divulge his secrets to Griff, I was always nervous for the time the truth would be revealed. With Mark believing his past would only tarnish Griff’s view of him, I felt for Mark and so wanted him to feel like he deserved much more. As for Griff, his flirty and naïve ways are endearing but he also shows what he’s capable of being.
Remaining consistent with this series, there is heart-racing action, complex characters and steamy, page-turning scenes. Seeing Mark go into Alpha mode is hot as hell. With all the players now set in place, the plot landscape is cued for the ultimate culmination.
Black Lies is a dark romance about acceptance and loyalty amidst a mafia themed plot.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.*
Guns n’ Boys series:
For two years, Mark Vincitore and Griffith Elswood have been living blissfully together in London. Savoring their time together, Mark thought he could move forward with Griff until suddenly his past comes calling. Though Mark is loyal to his family, protecting Griff is his priority.
“You deserve to be treated like a prince because you changed my whole life. I can’t imagine losing you.”
Told in dual POV, the sudden shift into Mark’s violent world scares Griff and makes him question what they’ve shared since Mark hid that part of his life. Trying to reconcile the adoring Mark he knows with the man who can kill in a blink of an eye, Griff must do what is right for his feelings and own safety.
“There’s always a risk when one isn’t careful enough.”
“And sometimes you choose to do something risky for one reason or another.”
Since Mark and Griff met, and knowing Mark couldn’t divulge his secrets to Griff, I was always nervous for the time the truth would be revealed. With Mark believing his past would only tarnish Griff’s view of him, I felt for Mark and so wanted him to feel like he deserved much more. As for Griff, his flirty and naïve ways are endearing but he also shows what he’s capable of being.
Remaining consistent with this series, there is heart-racing action, complex characters and steamy, page-turning scenes. Seeing Mark go into Alpha mode is hot as hell. With all the players now set in place, the plot landscape is cued for the ultimate culmination.
Black Lies is a dark romance about acceptance and loyalty amidst a mafia themed plot.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.*
Guns n’ Boys series:
March 5, 2020
The K. A. Merikan team has delivered a gem in all of it's twisted glory!
Book 10 in the saga of Domenico and Seth, their little daughter and
Mark, the young man they have groomed in their world.
Mark has been with his boyfriend,
the talented, beautiful, dancer, Griffith.
Their life in London has been lovely. Now, however, Mark's family's past has threatened him and his Griff. They escape and are on the run. Griff has had to see the violence Mark's life has been.
They argue, but are sticking together.
This is another story on the same level as the rest, as we see evil, death, guns, knives and survival. Our hate for Charlotte and Dana is renewed.
Mark and Griffith are highly sexual in their private time, enjoying the closeness they thrive on, with the tender touches, and the rough climaxes.
The story is amazing, sad, sexy, shocking and powerful.
It is everything we want it to be.
I highly recommend it.
ENJOY !
========
Book 10 in the saga of Domenico and Seth, their little daughter and
Mark, the young man they have groomed in their world.
Mark has been with his boyfriend,
the talented, beautiful, dancer, Griffith.
Their life in London has been lovely. Now, however, Mark's family's past has threatened him and his Griff. They escape and are on the run. Griff has had to see the violence Mark's life has been.
They argue, but are sticking together.
This is another story on the same level as the rest, as we see evil, death, guns, knives and survival. Our hate for Charlotte and Dana is renewed.
Mark and Griffith are highly sexual in their private time, enjoying the closeness they thrive on, with the tender touches, and the rough climaxes.
The story is amazing, sad, sexy, shocking and powerful.
It is everything we want it to be.
I highly recommend it.
ENJOY !
========
March 10, 2020
*4.5 stars*
Loved loved loved! I'm rounding up because the ending was all kinds of amazing. Given that this is Griffin and Mark's book (opposed to Domenico and Seth) I was pleasantly surprised by the constant tension, relationship angst, action and gore in this one.
Runs parallel to the previous book, explaining what was Mark doing while Seth and Domenico were in Singapore hell. Oh Domenico...what an asshole. I love him so much. We get a good glimpse of him in the end.
Please give this series a chance.
Loved loved loved! I'm rounding up because the ending was all kinds of amazing. Given that this is Griffin and Mark's book (opposed to Domenico and Seth) I was pleasantly surprised by the constant tension, relationship angst, action and gore in this one.
Runs parallel to the previous book, explaining what was Mark doing while Seth and Domenico were in Singapore hell. Oh Domenico...what an asshole. I love him so much. We get a good glimpse of him in the end.
Please give this series a chance.
March 31, 2021
Estou feliz e triste ao mesmo tempo! Feliz porque não acabou, triste porque terei de esperar lançar o livro 11. O QUE FAREI DA VIDA AGORA?!. Eu tava ansiando por mais de Mark e Griff, ansiando pelo desfecho de toda verdade sobre Mark cair diante de Griff, queria muito saber como tudo iria se desenrolar quando Griff descobrisse o que realmente tinha acontecido com Charlotte e Mark. Foi melhor do que imaginei! Um dia o mark perguntou a Dom como era amar alguém tanto assim, ele não entendia o amor de Seth e Dom. Dom disse que ele entenderia um dia quando encontrasse seu alguém especial. Agora Mark entende completamente o amor de Dom e Seth, ele entende porque ele encontrou Griff e o amor deles foi uma das coisas mais bonitas desse livro. Fiquei muito feliz pelo mark porque ele precisava de alguém como Griff, a primeira paixão de Mark foi Charlotte, mas o primeiro verdadeiro amor foi Griffith ❤ Completei minha missão de ler todos os livros lançados de Gun's Boys, vou sentir falta de todo dia pegar um pouco de Dom e Seth para ler, já fazem parte da minha rotina de leitura. Ficarei com um vazio no coração até sair o próximo volume 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
March 1, 2020
I loved this tenth, and penultimate installment.
This was what I was looking for in the first book between Mark and Griffith (Griffith finding basically the whole truth) and now that I've read this one, it makes sense that the authors waited for a second book for Griffith to find out. The eighth book was them falling in love, and this one was seeing their relationship could survive being put through the wringer.
To say that Griffith doesn't take finding out more about Mark well would be an understatement. For a lot of these two are not in a good place, and their love and trust in each other is put to the test.
This book opens with things going well, and it's Halloween, and Griffith is planning to propose, but when he and Mark almost get abducted and Mark has to kill three men in front of Griffith to stop that from happening, things change in their relationship irrevocably.
Griffith, understandable, doesn't take it well. He was frustrating a few times throughout this, even as I understood his behavior and thoughts. But it was pretty black & white thinking for most of this and it was frustrating. But Griffith grew up in a pretty insulated world, where everything was handed to him on a silver platter and nothing all that bad - at least not the bad like what happens in Mark's world - happened to him.
But now Griffith is very much confronted with it in this. With death bodies, a lot of blood, and scare people - maybe even Mark himself. So he has to come to terms with Mark's work and who Mark sometimes has to become to deal with that world, or live in it.
As for Mark, he has been keeping most everything about the world he lived in with Dom and Seth a secret, that it's a hard habit to break, and he tries to continue to lie in this, and only give up as much as he can without giving everything away. But Griffith is no longer taking that, and doesn't give up his questioning, and Mark has to make the decision of telling him the whole truth or losing him.
Add to the fact that some men are after Mark (and Griffith by association) because of his connection to Dom and Seth, and things are tense, to say the least.
But through it all, there is no denying their connection to each other, and how much Mark and Griffith love each other.
Griffith just needs to ask himself if that love is enough to stay by Mark's side, and Mark has to ask himself if he's willing to let Griffith go if that's what Griffith wants.
I loved this book, I couldn't put it down. Mark and Griffith are different than Dom and Seth and I love that. I love Dom and Seth above all, but it's nice to get a different romantic dynamic in this series, and to see a relationship deal with one being in the Mafia by proxy and the other being "normal" and how a relationship gets through that, if they can.
I was happy how this ended, and I was happy to see Dom and Seth once again. I can't wait for the last installment in this amazing series (although I'm stills cared Federico will rape Dom once again with everything come to a head...I hope that doesn't happen because that would just be awful. I want to see Dom and Seth totally annihilate their enemies, whoever that may be. Here's hoping!)
Highly recommend this, especially if you enjoyed Mark and Griffith from the eighth installment. Two thumbs up from me!
This was what I was looking for in the first book between Mark and Griffith (Griffith finding basically the whole truth) and now that I've read this one, it makes sense that the authors waited for a second book for Griffith to find out. The eighth book was them falling in love, and this one was seeing their relationship could survive being put through the wringer.
To say that Griffith doesn't take finding out more about Mark well would be an understatement. For a lot of these two are not in a good place, and their love and trust in each other is put to the test.
This book opens with things going well, and it's Halloween, and Griffith is planning to propose, but when he and Mark almost get abducted and Mark has to kill three men in front of Griffith to stop that from happening, things change in their relationship irrevocably.
Griffith, understandable, doesn't take it well. He was frustrating a few times throughout this, even as I understood his behavior and thoughts. But it was pretty black & white thinking for most of this and it was frustrating. But Griffith grew up in a pretty insulated world, where everything was handed to him on a silver platter and nothing all that bad - at least not the bad like what happens in Mark's world - happened to him.
But now Griffith is very much confronted with it in this. With death bodies, a lot of blood, and scare people - maybe even Mark himself. So he has to come to terms with Mark's work and who Mark sometimes has to become to deal with that world, or live in it.
As for Mark, he has been keeping most everything about the world he lived in with Dom and Seth a secret, that it's a hard habit to break, and he tries to continue to lie in this, and only give up as much as he can without giving everything away. But Griffith is no longer taking that, and doesn't give up his questioning, and Mark has to make the decision of telling him the whole truth or losing him.
Add to the fact that some men are after Mark (and Griffith by association) because of his connection to Dom and Seth, and things are tense, to say the least.
But through it all, there is no denying their connection to each other, and how much Mark and Griffith love each other.
Griffith just needs to ask himself if that love is enough to stay by Mark's side, and Mark has to ask himself if he's willing to let Griffith go if that's what Griffith wants.
I loved this book, I couldn't put it down. Mark and Griffith are different than Dom and Seth and I love that. I love Dom and Seth above all, but it's nice to get a different romantic dynamic in this series, and to see a relationship deal with one being in the Mafia by proxy and the other being "normal" and how a relationship gets through that, if they can.
I was happy how this ended, and I was happy to see Dom and Seth once again. I can't wait for the last installment in this amazing series (although I'm stills cared Federico will rape Dom once again with everything come to a head...I hope that doesn't happen because that would just be awful. I want to see Dom and Seth totally annihilate their enemies, whoever that may be. Here's hoping!)
Highly recommend this, especially if you enjoyed Mark and Griffith from the eighth installment. Two thumbs up from me!
February 24, 2020
I am so sad this series is ending soon! 😭 It’s one of my absolute favourites. Although I prefer Seth and Dom by far. I love Mark and Griff is a good co trade for him, their books are just too sweet for my liking. I can’t wait for the next book even if it is the last. 😞
February 16, 2020
By now, and reluctantly, we are approaching the end of Guns N’ Boys.
Our protagonists will have to face, once and for all, their sworn enemies, who since the beginning of this adventure have done everything to destroy Dom and Seth, and all those closest to them.
But sometimes we are the enemies of ourselves.
The lies that we tell and that can backfire us at any moment, like the lies that Mark had to tell Griffith to protect the man he loves from a too violent and uncomfortable truth, which with their brutality could have torn the small corner of paradise that Mark had created for them, where he had been able to leave the painful past behind, finally, thinking that he could be a normal guy, with a normal life.
But when the past comes back to destroy your life, all you can do is run away or face it, and we all know that Mark, like his father Dom, would never abandon his family, especially in times of need.
Now that his dark world, made of death and fear, has collided with the brighter one and full of love that Griff has let him know, Mark will have to fight to find a way to make both coexist.
For Griffith, however, it will be a completely different story, in fact he will find himself for the first time in two years in front of the real Mark, at least to a part of him, that never came out from his perfect and caring boyfriend.
After seeing the worst of a person it’s difficult to see the still hidden radiant light that made you fall in love with him, but will Griff be able to regain the trust he placed in Mark before all this? Could his love be strong enough to bear the harsh truths that will gradually be discovered? And will the risk of meddling in such a dangerous life be worth it to be with Mark?
These are all questions that Griffith will have to find an answer to, if he really wants to understand whether or not he is ready to spend his life with Mark.
I really appreciated the path that both had to face in this book to arrive at the important decisions to make for their relationship, the understanding that things are not always white or black, that behind choices that we do not understand there is not always malice or wickedness, and that sometimes happiness can be found even where you would never have expected it, as in a guy with a past of suffering and danger behind him, but ready for anything to defend the people he loves.
The next book will also be the last, and if most of me can't wait to read it, the other part is already sad because not ready at all to say goodbye to Dom and Seth, and to all the other incredible characters who have lived through the pages of this amazing series.
Our protagonists will have to face, once and for all, their sworn enemies, who since the beginning of this adventure have done everything to destroy Dom and Seth, and all those closest to them.
But sometimes we are the enemies of ourselves.
The lies that we tell and that can backfire us at any moment, like the lies that Mark had to tell Griffith to protect the man he loves from a too violent and uncomfortable truth, which with their brutality could have torn the small corner of paradise that Mark had created for them, where he had been able to leave the painful past behind, finally, thinking that he could be a normal guy, with a normal life.
But when the past comes back to destroy your life, all you can do is run away or face it, and we all know that Mark, like his father Dom, would never abandon his family, especially in times of need.
Now that his dark world, made of death and fear, has collided with the brighter one and full of love that Griff has let him know, Mark will have to fight to find a way to make both coexist.
For Griffith, however, it will be a completely different story, in fact he will find himself for the first time in two years in front of the real Mark, at least to a part of him, that never came out from his perfect and caring boyfriend.
After seeing the worst of a person it’s difficult to see the still hidden radiant light that made you fall in love with him, but will Griff be able to regain the trust he placed in Mark before all this? Could his love be strong enough to bear the harsh truths that will gradually be discovered? And will the risk of meddling in such a dangerous life be worth it to be with Mark?
These are all questions that Griffith will have to find an answer to, if he really wants to understand whether or not he is ready to spend his life with Mark.
I really appreciated the path that both had to face in this book to arrive at the important decisions to make for their relationship, the understanding that things are not always white or black, that behind choices that we do not understand there is not always malice or wickedness, and that sometimes happiness can be found even where you would never have expected it, as in a guy with a past of suffering and danger behind him, but ready for anything to defend the people he loves.
The next book will also be the last, and if most of me can't wait to read it, the other part is already sad because not ready at all to say goodbye to Dom and Seth, and to all the other incredible characters who have lived through the pages of this amazing series.
May 6, 2021
Que louca jornada foi ter lido os 10 volumes de Guns n'Boys!!
Pensei que em algum momento eu cansaria da história, mas Ka Merikan conseguiu fazer a história não perder o ritmo e nos apresentando novas emoções em cada livro. 8 livros com casal Seth e Dom, 2livros com o casal Griff e Mark ❤ Amei esses dois casais que me trouxeram grandes emoções.
Prometi ler o volume 11 com minha namorada e assim farei quando for lançado, agora é esperar.
Pensei que em algum momento eu cansaria da história, mas Ka Merikan conseguiu fazer a história não perder o ritmo e nos apresentando novas emoções em cada livro. 8 livros com casal Seth e Dom, 2livros com o casal Griff e Mark ❤ Amei esses dois casais que me trouxeram grandes emoções.
Prometi ler o volume 11 com minha namorada e assim farei quando for lançado, agora é esperar.
February 28, 2020
I started reading this series back in 2015 and now we’re ten books in and it’s still one of my favourite M/M series ever! Seriously, every single time a book comes out I get so freaking excited because I know it’s going to be amazing. Dark, sexy, intense and characters that really feel like family now.
It kills me that the next book will be the last one. I’m going to miss Dom, Seth and Mark so much. Watching them become a family has been amazing and I’ll never forget them.
This book was great! Full of action and angst between Mark and Griff. And it pulled the whole family beck together for the big finale.
Mark has lied to Griff since they met, about his past and his family. He knew that if Griff knew who he really was he’d never even give him a chance. And Mark honestly believed that he’d moved on. Left behind a life of death and violence. He was desperate to be loved and wanted to make a life with Griff. So that’s what they did.
Now after two wonderfully happy years together Mark’s past catches up to them both!
Dom and Seth are in trouble (after the events of the previous book) and Mark has been targeted to try and use as leverage.
So when Griff sees the real Mark - him effortlessly killing three men who tried to abduct them - he realises that his whole relationship has been a lie and that Mark isn’t the perfect man he thought he’d found.
“How many people have you killed that it came to you so easily last night, huh?”
Mark didn’t flinch, keeping up the eye contact with a straight face. “I don’t know. At some point I stopped counting.” Griffith choked up, staring at the unnervingly stoic expression on Mark’s face.’
Their relationship takes a huge blow while Mark tries to keep Griff safe, protect his families secrets and not lose Griff in the process. He had to start telling the truth, or lose Griff forever. It was a mess and seeing Mark so torn and desperate broke my heart.
‘Ugly voices he’d almost forgotten about were back in Mark’s head, telling him he wasn’t worthy of the elegant prince he’d entrapped under false pretenses. He was a boy who left the gutter by climbing over dead bodies, and didn’t deserve a happy ending.’
But they really are perfect together. Griff needs someone strong and loving to take care of him and Mark needs someone sweet and kind and fun. Griff brings so much light and love to his life 💙
But the best part was seeing Griff grow. He was pretty annoying at times, but hell, he had a lot to come to terms with. But his determination and love for Mark made me love him just a little bit more.
We’ve watched Mark grow up with Dom and Seth and he’s become such an incredible man. I can’t lie, seeing the old Mark come back in full force was awesome! 😂
I freaking loved it and I know the next book is going to be very bitter/sweet. I don’t want to say goodbye to the gang, but K.A Merikan have done such an incredible job and their decision to end on a high will probably be the best thing.
I just hope I don’t have to wait too long 🤞😍
It kills me that the next book will be the last one. I’m going to miss Dom, Seth and Mark so much. Watching them become a family has been amazing and I’ll never forget them.
This book was great! Full of action and angst between Mark and Griff. And it pulled the whole family beck together for the big finale.
Mark has lied to Griff since they met, about his past and his family. He knew that if Griff knew who he really was he’d never even give him a chance. And Mark honestly believed that he’d moved on. Left behind a life of death and violence. He was desperate to be loved and wanted to make a life with Griff. So that’s what they did.
Now after two wonderfully happy years together Mark’s past catches up to them both!
Dom and Seth are in trouble (after the events of the previous book) and Mark has been targeted to try and use as leverage.
So when Griff sees the real Mark - him effortlessly killing three men who tried to abduct them - he realises that his whole relationship has been a lie and that Mark isn’t the perfect man he thought he’d found.
“How many people have you killed that it came to you so easily last night, huh?”
Mark didn’t flinch, keeping up the eye contact with a straight face. “I don’t know. At some point I stopped counting.” Griffith choked up, staring at the unnervingly stoic expression on Mark’s face.’
Their relationship takes a huge blow while Mark tries to keep Griff safe, protect his families secrets and not lose Griff in the process. He had to start telling the truth, or lose Griff forever. It was a mess and seeing Mark so torn and desperate broke my heart.
‘Ugly voices he’d almost forgotten about were back in Mark’s head, telling him he wasn’t worthy of the elegant prince he’d entrapped under false pretenses. He was a boy who left the gutter by climbing over dead bodies, and didn’t deserve a happy ending.’
But they really are perfect together. Griff needs someone strong and loving to take care of him and Mark needs someone sweet and kind and fun. Griff brings so much light and love to his life 💙
But the best part was seeing Griff grow. He was pretty annoying at times, but hell, he had a lot to come to terms with. But his determination and love for Mark made me love him just a little bit more.
We’ve watched Mark grow up with Dom and Seth and he’s become such an incredible man. I can’t lie, seeing the old Mark come back in full force was awesome! 😂
I freaking loved it and I know the next book is going to be very bitter/sweet. I don’t want to say goodbye to the gang, but K.A Merikan have done such an incredible job and their decision to end on a high will probably be the best thing.
I just hope I don’t have to wait too long 🤞😍
February 16, 2020
Guns n’ Boys: black lies was the book I was REALLY waiting for after a cliffhanger at the end of the previous book, Unshaken. What is Black lies about and it was worth waiting for?
Spoilers should be marked but please – if you don’t like them be careful.
What to do when your beloved person, who seems to be perfect partner turns out to be someone else? Stay with them? Run away? Listen to heart or common sense? One night Griffith finds himself in the situation when he doesn’t know who is that person with whom Griff spend two happy years of his life. Should he trust a person who one moment seems like his loving boyfriend and another like someone else? Who Mark really is? What awaits them at the end?
I really liked to read how Griff adapted to this really hard situation. He reminded me about young Seth.
Mark spent two blissful years with his pretty boyfriend, but past doesn’t want to let him go. He has to protect his boyfriend even if his relationship will never be the same.
The wait for this book was rewarded with great book, that doesn't let you go until last page. I really want to get my hands on next book I have so many questions and I think they will be finally answered in next book. I think it’s time to re-read the series.
If you’re the fan of the series, you probably won’t need me telling you this but I’ll tell it anyway: preorder this book and find time just for you because you won’t be able to put this book down. And if you are new to the series: start with book one and be sure that before you finish it you will become fan.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review, thank you.
Spoilers should be marked but please – if you don’t like them be careful.
What to do when your beloved person, who seems to be perfect partner turns out to be someone else? Stay with them? Run away? Listen to heart or common sense? One night Griffith finds himself in the situation when he doesn’t know who is that person with whom Griff spend two happy years of his life. Should he trust a person who one moment seems like his loving boyfriend and another like someone else? Who Mark really is? What awaits them at the end?
I really liked to read how Griff adapted to this really hard situation. He reminded me about young Seth.
Mark spent two blissful years with his pretty boyfriend, but past doesn’t want to let him go. He has to protect his boyfriend even if his relationship will never be the same.
The wait for this book was rewarded with great book, that doesn't let you go until last page. I really want to get my hands on next book I have so many questions and I think they will be finally answered in next book. I think it’s time to re-read the series.
If you’re the fan of the series, you probably won’t need me telling you this but I’ll tell it anyway: preorder this book and find time just for you because you won’t be able to put this book down. And if you are new to the series: start with book one and be sure that before you finish it you will become fan.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review, thank you.
September 21, 2020
WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT THIS BOOK.
This is a Mark and Griffith book and that’s fine. I liked their last book (book 8, A Breath of Innocence) well enough so it makes sense that we would see them again before the series finale with Seth and Dom.
Mark and Griffith have a HUGE secret between them that Griffith doesn’t even know about and was left unresolved from book 8 so I was interested to see how Griffith was going to get brought into the fold. We saw a little bit of what happened at the end of nine when Dom receives a phone call from Mark saying he’s got 3 bodies to deal with and Dom telling Mark to “stay put”, their code word for get the fuck out. Because someone had definitely put out a hit on Mark, and possibly Griffith.
The rest of this review will contain spoilers for the last book, book 9, and this book as well.
Trigger warnings for violence, murder, mentions of sexual assault and rape, and misogyny.
I’m both ready and totally NOT ready for the last book in this series. I love the characters so much!!! I do want Seth and Dom to finally get peace and live happily in Italy so it’s time. I hope we’re able to get audiobooks for this series afterwards because I’ve heard the clips Wyatt Baker had done for this series on Patreon and THIS IS A MIGHTY NEED. If there’s time, I’d like to re-read the first few books in this series to gear myself up for book 11, because these men have come a long way in what, seven years??, since the events of the first book and I want to revisit that one last time before the big showdown.
This is a Mark and Griffith book and that’s fine. I liked their last book (book 8, A Breath of Innocence) well enough so it makes sense that we would see them again before the series finale with Seth and Dom.
Mark and Griffith have a HUGE secret between them that Griffith doesn’t even know about and was left unresolved from book 8 so I was interested to see how Griffith was going to get brought into the fold. We saw a little bit of what happened at the end of nine when Dom receives a phone call from Mark saying he’s got 3 bodies to deal with and Dom telling Mark to “stay put”, their code word for get the fuck out. Because someone had definitely put out a hit on Mark, and possibly Griffith.
The rest of this review will contain spoilers for the last book, book 9, and this book as well.
Trigger warnings for violence, murder, mentions of sexual assault and rape, and misogyny.
I’m both ready and totally NOT ready for the last book in this series. I love the characters so much!!! I do want Seth and Dom to finally get peace and live happily in Italy so it’s time. I hope we’re able to get audiobooks for this series afterwards because I’ve heard the clips Wyatt Baker had done for this series on Patreon and THIS IS A MIGHTY NEED. If there’s time, I’d like to re-read the first few books in this series to gear myself up for book 11, because these men have come a long way in what, seven years??, since the events of the first book and I want to revisit that one last time before the big showdown.
January 1, 2021
4,5 stars
August 15, 2024
Mark and Griffith's story is both beautiful and a bit messy. I hate how Mark lies sometimes but I can understand why he does it. I'm impressed by how Griffith adapts to some situations very quickly and how brave he gets. I do have something to address that I can't seem to get over which is Mark's flirting with the waitresses that Griffith mentioned which I also read about in their last book. I don't know if everyone feels the same way but I kinda am mad hearing about that, I mean I know Mark is loyal but can't he not flirt with women to respect Griffith? I think it would've helped if we read it from Mark's point of view so we can understand what he's thinking when he's being too friendly with the waitresses I think then we could get our peace of mind. But it didn't happen that way, we only read it from Griffith's pov which doesn't exactly ease my mind when I read that Mark is smiling at a waitress and petting her arm. But I know Mark would never cheat on Griffith because he's in love with him and has proven that time and time again. This book shows how they navigate their relationship when all the truth about Mark comes out in the open. But I still can't get over the flirting thing, I really don't know why lol.
February 27, 2020
4.5 stars ❤️ loved thus !!! Mark & Griff certainly came to terms with the reality of Marks past. Loved that Dom & Seth became part of the storyline... can’t wait to see how this unfolds ! Loved it
February 22, 2020
So, I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest review, so I'll just say:
The art of storytelling is....well, an art form. A great author has the ability to transform mere words into a full blown movie that plays out in the privacy of your imagination. Actual storytelling, though, pushes that a step further. Instead of taking a chunk of the character's life and describing it in detail, a storyteller allows you to get to know the character as gradually as you would a stranger you've recently met. You gather bits and pieces of their personality through their actions and reactions, you see them when they're cocky, smug, and arrogant. You watch as said arrogance tricks them into horrible decisions. You observe as they experience life in all it's unfairness and absurdities, and subtlety learn lessons that contribute to their growth as humans, while still maintaining that unshakable vulnerability that is human nature. Through storytelling, you watch boys become men without even realizing you've done such a thing until finally, FINALLY, they stand in a manner that make YOU, the reader, proud.
When Mark first appeared in Guns n' Boys, I wasn't a fan. I resented him for intermittently blocking my view of Seth and Dom. I wished I could just shove him while yelling "Go away, little boy!".
And then, that book ended and I had a dopey smile on my face. Mark became a part of the family, and I actually began to enjoy him.
Then, Griff appeared and, once again, I wanted to shove him and yell "Go away, little boy!". I'm not going to lie, by the end of that book, I still wasn't 100% sold on Griff. But, he gave Mark a chance, against a ridiculous amount of odds, and so I gave him one.
Then, we get to book 10. Mark is there. Griff is there. Chaos decides it would like to ride shotgun! And man, was this a wild ride! You'd think 10 books in, the story would start to taper off and you'd actually start rooting for it to be done. I haven't had that inkling at ALL. Not in any book in this series, not at any time. They keep getting stronger and stronger with each release (yes, I'm talking about the books and the characters with that statement).
I don't like spoiling stories, so I won't even begin to list the events that took place, or the fantastically amazing ending. I will say I'm not longer a Griff boo-er. And Mark...oh Mark. Just as Seth made me so proud in book 9 with the amount of growth he'd shown, Mark has done likewise. It's a truly incredible experience to be able to look back at characters from books away, and it's almost akin to looking in a photo album and seeing the milestones and progress of a loved one.
I didn't think I'd give two #$@% about Mark and Griff at this point in the game, but you've proved me wrong ladies....you've proved me wrong with a solid 5 star book!
The art of storytelling is....well, an art form. A great author has the ability to transform mere words into a full blown movie that plays out in the privacy of your imagination. Actual storytelling, though, pushes that a step further. Instead of taking a chunk of the character's life and describing it in detail, a storyteller allows you to get to know the character as gradually as you would a stranger you've recently met. You gather bits and pieces of their personality through their actions and reactions, you see them when they're cocky, smug, and arrogant. You watch as said arrogance tricks them into horrible decisions. You observe as they experience life in all it's unfairness and absurdities, and subtlety learn lessons that contribute to their growth as humans, while still maintaining that unshakable vulnerability that is human nature. Through storytelling, you watch boys become men without even realizing you've done such a thing until finally, FINALLY, they stand in a manner that make YOU, the reader, proud.
When Mark first appeared in Guns n' Boys, I wasn't a fan. I resented him for intermittently blocking my view of Seth and Dom. I wished I could just shove him while yelling "Go away, little boy!".
And then, that book ended and I had a dopey smile on my face. Mark became a part of the family, and I actually began to enjoy him.
Then, Griff appeared and, once again, I wanted to shove him and yell "Go away, little boy!". I'm not going to lie, by the end of that book, I still wasn't 100% sold on Griff. But, he gave Mark a chance, against a ridiculous amount of odds, and so I gave him one.
Then, we get to book 10. Mark is there. Griff is there. Chaos decides it would like to ride shotgun! And man, was this a wild ride! You'd think 10 books in, the story would start to taper off and you'd actually start rooting for it to be done. I haven't had that inkling at ALL. Not in any book in this series, not at any time. They keep getting stronger and stronger with each release (yes, I'm talking about the books and the characters with that statement).
I don't like spoiling stories, so I won't even begin to list the events that took place, or the fantastically amazing ending. I will say I'm not longer a Griff boo-er. And Mark...oh Mark. Just as Seth made me so proud in book 9 with the amount of growth he'd shown, Mark has done likewise. It's a truly incredible experience to be able to look back at characters from books away, and it's almost akin to looking in a photo album and seeing the milestones and progress of a loved one.
I didn't think I'd give two #$@% about Mark and Griff at this point in the game, but you've proved me wrong ladies....you've proved me wrong with a solid 5 star book!
February 26, 2020
What can I say about this book? It was a Gun n Boys' book. I LOVE this series. I LOVED this book. I loved watching how mature Mark has become. I was so freaking proud of him! If you haven't started this series Do So Now. This series needs to be brought to life. I have one complaint though... I'm extremely concerned, I feel like the series will be ending soon. Unacceptable! OMG. I think I should re read.
5 stars as usual
-Natasha
5 stars as usual
-Natasha
January 9, 2025
Here we are almost at the end (*internally sobbing*)... And this book was able to open even more the web of lies and betrayal our boys are up against!
Apart from that, this book bursts the bubble in which Griff and Mark have lived for the past two years, like a posh couple in London just appreciating the good stuff! Well, we can't have none of that in the Vincetori family.
So we go to a high speed race, running and fighting for their life, while having a relationship crisis because, Mark it's not just brunches and foot licking right? BTW Charlotte is still infuriating AF...
I don't want to spoil much, but I can say they end up with the family at home, and that was everything! HFN granted.
Like in book 8 e fail to fully appreciate this couple and the need to have two novels about then... Their relationship is a bit juvenile, and it shows off more in this book, when they spend 80% of the book in life danger but always bitching and bickering like Seth's Borgia's (to soon 😥)... But after all this for days, in the end they in like 5 seconds make it all good.....
Honestly, I just miss Dom and Seth toxic love... Because that's why I'm here for(I guess that's saying more about me that anything else).
Unlike the others, I'm not rushing the next book... I'm building up the tension, so I can, like my friend says wisely, to appreciate the experience even more***
Apart from that, this book bursts the bubble in which Griff and Mark have lived for the past two years, like a posh couple in London just appreciating the good stuff! Well, we can't have none of that in the Vincetori family.
So we go to a high speed race, running and fighting for their life, while having a relationship crisis because, Mark it's not just brunches and foot licking right? BTW Charlotte is still infuriating AF...
I don't want to spoil much, but I can say they end up with the family at home, and that was everything! HFN granted.
Like in book 8 e fail to fully appreciate this couple and the need to have two novels about then... Their relationship is a bit juvenile, and it shows off more in this book, when they spend 80% of the book in life danger but always bitching and bickering like Seth's Borgia's (to soon 😥)... But after all this for days, in the end they in like 5 seconds make it all good.....
Honestly, I just miss Dom and Seth toxic love... Because that's why I'm here for(I guess that's saying more about me that anything else).
Unlike the others, I'm not rushing the next book... I'm building up the tension, so I can, like my friend says wisely, to appreciate the experience even more***
March 19, 2020
Once again these girls wrote a magnificent book ...
Mark ,who is trying to hide his past from the love of his life Griffith, who loves Mark with the same passion..
When Mark's past crashes into now all hell breaks out.
Griffith has a lot of deciding to make ... it turns their lives upside down..
Griffith has no idea of Mark's past !
Mark still want to shelter Griffith but can he ?
This book can be read as a stand alone ...
I await these books like a gift from heaven .
The men are all delicious besides devious , nothing is left to the imagination as it's all there all the blood and limbs and bodies you can imagine , add the love that makes me happy...
Mark ,who is trying to hide his past from the love of his life Griffith, who loves Mark with the same passion..
When Mark's past crashes into now all hell breaks out.
Griffith has a lot of deciding to make ... it turns their lives upside down..
Griffith has no idea of Mark's past !
Mark still want to shelter Griffith but can he ?
This book can be read as a stand alone ...
I await these books like a gift from heaven .
The men are all delicious besides devious , nothing is left to the imagination as it's all there all the blood and limbs and bodies you can imagine , add the love that makes me happy...
February 19, 2020
The only complaint I have is that the book is too short for me..I was so wonderful and an amazing that 20 chapters were not enough for me and knowing that series is coming to an end soon I wanted to have more..As usual KA Merikan deserve more than 5 stars..
And the ending Woah...
I look forward the last book..
😍😍😍😍
And the ending Woah...
I look forward the last book..
😍😍😍😍
May 5, 2020
I couldn't put this book down. Althought Dom and Seth are my favourite couple of all time, I loved Griff and Mark's love story.
I think I loved this book a little bit more than A breath of innocence because it had more action and I really felt their love in this one.
I can't wait for book 11 but at the same time I don't want to say goodbye to Dom and Seth (and the others). 😢❤
I think I loved this book a little bit more than A breath of innocence because it had more action and I really felt their love in this one.
I can't wait for book 11 but at the same time I don't want to say goodbye to Dom and Seth (and the others). 😢❤
August 10, 2025
From start to finish, Black Lies was totally an emotional rollercoaster. When I wasn't sobbing for Mark, I was biting my nails with all the action. I couldn't keep my eyes off of it.
As always, these amazing ladies are nailing it with this installment. I'm so looking forward to the next book (and secretly I am not because I don't want to say goodbye to Seth & Dom)
As always, these amazing ladies are nailing it with this installment. I'm so looking forward to the next book (and secretly I am not because I don't want to say goodbye to Seth & Dom)
January 2, 2025
☺ ni la terapia me salva
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