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Carlyle
Dark Mafia Romance
I’m a powerful criminal.
I know fire when I see it.
Valerie is too feisty for her own good.
I bring the world down to its knees.
But she isn’t scared of me.
Not yet.
She hasn’t seen the real face behind this mask.
The man that I’m capable of turning into.
But she does trigger the monster within me.
One that will devour her until she submits herself completely to me.
I’m a powerful criminal.
I know fire when I see it.
Valerie is too feisty for her own good.
I bring the world down to its knees.
But she isn’t scared of me.
Not yet.
She hasn’t seen the real face behind this mask.
The man that I’m capable of turning into.
But she does trigger the monster within me.
One that will devour her until she submits herself completely to me.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 2, 2020
139 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Raven Scott
95 books223 followersRaven Scott is a contemporary romance author who dabbles in suspenseful stories. As a reader, she loves when twists and turns pop out in stories and strives to do the same in her own work. When she isn't writing, you can find her by the beach with a Sangria in hand, taking in the scenery.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
December 16, 2020
3.5 stars!
July 31, 2020
This is the 2nd book in this amazing series and is Carlyle and Valerie’s story. Carlyle is the eldest of the Santino empire and heir to the empire. Valerie and her twin sister start working for Carlyle, not knowing who he actually is, and their lives are soon in danger. This is a well written story which is a thrilling story with an in-depth and intricate plot, filled with action, danger, suspense, twists, surprises, and love. I was hooked and intrigued throughout and look forward to reading more from this author whose work I recommend for all.
May 2, 2020
Carlyle and Valerie want to play twister with you. Of course they are bringing the action, suspense, romance, unexpected surprises and goosebumps all you have to do is buckle up for the crazy good ride you are about to embark upon.
Raven and her dark/powerful men are enough to cause you to get your daily intake of cold water in a matter of a few hours. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
Raven and her dark/powerful men are enough to cause you to get your daily intake of cold water in a matter of a few hours. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
February 8, 2022
This book pulls you in from the first page and holds you through to the end of the book. While the story moves quickly, you will encounter mystery, secrets, twists and turns, surprises, heartbreak, conflict, fear, pain, mafia action, adventure, violence, passion and romance.
Carlyle, a mafia boss, is ruthless, answers to no one, shows no mercy to his enemies and expects everyone to do what he commands. Valerie is stubborn, loving, protective, holds her own secrets, fun and caring.
Carlyle accidentally meets Valerie where both notices each other but they didn't get together then. Once Carlyle spent time with Valerie, he is taken with her so much she becomes a good part of his life and falls for her. He loves how she stands up to him, tells him exactly what she is thinking, not afraid of him and seems to truly care and is in love with him.
Valerie started falling for Carlyle from the minute she saw him. She couldn't believe he was so kind and thoughtful, but at the same time she would not be pushed around or be told what to do, and she has no problem standing up for what she believes is right.
Some of the readers don't care for Valerie's background because she is not a virgin or comes from a good background. However, her sexual experiences and background gives a more realistic person. Not ever man cares whether his woman is a virgin or comes from a good background as long as she is faithful to him. It's refreshing to read a book where the women is not a virgin and the man doesn't care.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review. I would recommend this book to anybody who enjoys organized crime, mafia romance, action and adventure romance books. So, grab your favorite beverage, sit down and enjoy yourself with this delightful book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Carlyle, a mafia boss, is ruthless, answers to no one, shows no mercy to his enemies and expects everyone to do what he commands. Valerie is stubborn, loving, protective, holds her own secrets, fun and caring.
Carlyle accidentally meets Valerie where both notices each other but they didn't get together then. Once Carlyle spent time with Valerie, he is taken with her so much she becomes a good part of his life and falls for her. He loves how she stands up to him, tells him exactly what she is thinking, not afraid of him and seems to truly care and is in love with him.
Valerie started falling for Carlyle from the minute she saw him. She couldn't believe he was so kind and thoughtful, but at the same time she would not be pushed around or be told what to do, and she has no problem standing up for what she believes is right.
Some of the readers don't care for Valerie's background because she is not a virgin or comes from a good background. However, her sexual experiences and background gives a more realistic person. Not ever man cares whether his woman is a virgin or comes from a good background as long as she is faithful to him. It's refreshing to read a book where the women is not a virgin and the man doesn't care.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review. I would recommend this book to anybody who enjoys organized crime, mafia romance, action and adventure romance books. So, grab your favorite beverage, sit down and enjoy yourself with this delightful book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 15, 2020
He is ruthless and dark and she is going to have to adapt to it as he is not letting her go
Carlyle is the second book in The Syndicate series and continues stories about the Santino brothers. This is the story of Carlyle and Valerie. He is the oldest of the brothers and the heir to the empire. He is also ruthless and brutal. Valerie is a young woman with a lot of secrets. They meet at a coffee shop and it is an instant attraction between them. Carlyle is not only starting a relationship with Valerie but he is also trying to figure out who wants him dead and is fighting with the Italians.
This story has a lot going on with it, some good and some bad. I had not read the first book in the series before this one so I felt a bit like I was missing certain things in the story-line and characters. Then there is the fact that Carlyle is not a really likeable character as he is not only ruthless with enemies and in the family empire but he is a bit all over the place with Valerie also. For her part our plucky h does not realize what she is getting into with Carlyle. But there were a few things that she shared about her past that just turned me off. I am not a prude and require my heroine's to be pure like fresh snow but at the same time somethings can just go a bit far for me. The story-line itself was interesting but it did jump around and was a bit hard to follow at times.
In the end I am in the middle on this book as I liked parts and not others.
I received a copy of this book for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Carlyle is the second book in The Syndicate series and continues stories about the Santino brothers. This is the story of Carlyle and Valerie. He is the oldest of the brothers and the heir to the empire. He is also ruthless and brutal. Valerie is a young woman with a lot of secrets. They meet at a coffee shop and it is an instant attraction between them. Carlyle is not only starting a relationship with Valerie but he is also trying to figure out who wants him dead and is fighting with the Italians.
This story has a lot going on with it, some good and some bad. I had not read the first book in the series before this one so I felt a bit like I was missing certain things in the story-line and characters. Then there is the fact that Carlyle is not a really likeable character as he is not only ruthless with enemies and in the family empire but he is a bit all over the place with Valerie also. For her part our plucky h does not realize what she is getting into with Carlyle. But there were a few things that she shared about her past that just turned me off. I am not a prude and require my heroine's to be pure like fresh snow but at the same time somethings can just go a bit far for me. The story-line itself was interesting but it did jump around and was a bit hard to follow at times.
In the end I am in the middle on this book as I liked parts and not others.
I received a copy of this book for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
August 29, 2020
Carlyle (the book) is the 2nd book in series so has some elements from Book 1. It builds more of the background story and gives some info that is mentioned in Carlyle. Oh my…Carlyle is so intense and ruthless, with borderline sociopath, and seems to be cold, mean-spirited, control freak which makes it very hard to relate to him. On the other hand , Valerie is hiding a lot about her life and keeps her secrets very close to her chest. When they are together though sparks fly. The chemistry between them is hot and steamy. There is so much going on that you don’t want to put this book down. This book has so much twist/turns, drama, danger, suspenses, enemies, survival, intrigue, action, adventure, humor, mystery/secrets, surprises, family, anger, friends/friendships, fear, pain, conflict, resolution, confusion, confidence, strength, courage, trust, truths, stubbornness, struggles, protection, tension, turmoil (emotional), arrogance, annoyance, hate, heartbreak, trials/tribulations, acceptance, threats, betrayal, frustration, determination, patience, violence, revelations, chaos, happiness, romance, passion/lust and love. It’s is just one long roller coaster ride. I highly recommend this book if you love Mafia Romances. Just a warning…if you have triggers this book is not for you. Hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 3, 2020
ONE HIGH OCTANE BOMBSHELL!!!
Let'r rip! Raven knocked the brakes off this thrilling piece of perfection spinning one brilliantly composed treat, rocking this baby to it's core with one impressive storyline and gripping plot wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. Braided bound and entangled, showcasing the explosive ups and agonizing downs, testing our characters in ways they could have never envisioned. Traps are tripped, lines blur, boundaries are broken, thrusting this gem to a whole new level. Rolling with the intrigue, turmoil, drama, revelations, danger, spiraling suspense and unnerving situations along with a boatload of trouble while dodging disaster, you have one mind-blowing masterpiece. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this bad boy into a raging tempest, blasting it into a tailspin with a life-altering culmination. Twined, combined and intermingled, displaying the explosive highs and agonizing lows, putting our characters through their paces. The characters, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely approachable personalities. The scenes are written with such realism, impressive talent and unique insight, blasts this sparkling jewel to life, making the storyline pop. Remarkable job Raven, thanks for sharing this treasure with us.
Let'r rip! Raven knocked the brakes off this thrilling piece of perfection spinning one brilliantly composed treat, rocking this baby to it's core with one impressive storyline and gripping plot wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. Braided bound and entangled, showcasing the explosive ups and agonizing downs, testing our characters in ways they could have never envisioned. Traps are tripped, lines blur, boundaries are broken, thrusting this gem to a whole new level. Rolling with the intrigue, turmoil, drama, revelations, danger, spiraling suspense and unnerving situations along with a boatload of trouble while dodging disaster, you have one mind-blowing masterpiece. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this bad boy into a raging tempest, blasting it into a tailspin with a life-altering culmination. Twined, combined and intermingled, displaying the explosive highs and agonizing lows, putting our characters through their paces. The characters, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely approachable personalities. The scenes are written with such realism, impressive talent and unique insight, blasts this sparkling jewel to life, making the storyline pop. Remarkable job Raven, thanks for sharing this treasure with us.
June 22, 2020
Carlyle & Valerie
Book #2 held my attention easier than Book #1. It’s amazing how easily these women accept these mob figures into their lives. Until you hear their backstory, then you understand better. I must confess, there were times the flow of the storyline lost me and I would have to reread a previous section to understand what just happened. Again, this book leaves loose ends and not knowing how many books are in the series, will everything ever be wrapped up? What happened to the girl welded into his basement room? Did her brother Diamon take revenge or did Carlyle ever confront the Italians? How do you kill as many people as they did and nobody sees these bodies being moved out of his building? Where is George going off to? Who will Natasha end up with? Will Mateo ever grow up? Is Oran too broken to recover? Will Pedro come back in a later book and confront Carlyle? Interesting series but it’s rather unnerving to root for criminals to have a happily ever after while destroying other people’s lives.
Book #2 held my attention easier than Book #1. It’s amazing how easily these women accept these mob figures into their lives. Until you hear their backstory, then you understand better. I must confess, there were times the flow of the storyline lost me and I would have to reread a previous section to understand what just happened. Again, this book leaves loose ends and not knowing how many books are in the series, will everything ever be wrapped up? What happened to the girl welded into his basement room? Did her brother Diamon take revenge or did Carlyle ever confront the Italians? How do you kill as many people as they did and nobody sees these bodies being moved out of his building? Where is George going off to? Who will Natasha end up with? Will Mateo ever grow up? Is Oran too broken to recover? Will Pedro come back in a later book and confront Carlyle? Interesting series but it’s rather unnerving to root for criminals to have a happily ever after while destroying other people’s lives.
May 31, 2020
It is the turn of Carlyle, the eldest of the Santino brothers and heir to the empire. In the middle of the war with the Italians,he has to find out who wants to end him, he suspects everyone including his brothers. But it’s not all bad things, he meets a girl who is not bored at last, Valerie.
Valerie and her twin sister Natasha end up working for him without knowing that he is the leader of a criminal empire, they end up finding out when they receive a package bomb in their apartment. But the sisters have already gone through worse things than this, for example their own mother who sold them and abandoned them, their father faking his death, being kidnapped and sexually abused as teenagers...
Although I have to say that I expected more action and more cruelty after having read about him in the previous books of this series.
Valerie and her twin sister Natasha end up working for him without knowing that he is the leader of a criminal empire, they end up finding out when they receive a package bomb in their apartment. But the sisters have already gone through worse things than this, for example their own mother who sold them and abandoned them, their father faking his death, being kidnapped and sexually abused as teenagers...
Although I have to say that I expected more action and more cruelty after having read about him in the previous books of this series.
August 19, 2020
Carlyle is just being handed over the reigns from his father, but there is so much to do, his two younger brothers are always trying to get one over on him, especially Oran, Mateo is just a mess up, and it’s always down to Carlyle to sort everything out!
Valerie and her sister Nat have had a rough life, but they are finally settled and happy. Their past is best left in the past, but nothing is that simple, and trouble comes knocking.
When Valerie and Carlyle meet there is an instant attraction, and when Valerie needs help after a threatening phone call Carlyle is only too happy to help. Slowly Carlyle opens up to Valerie about what he does for a living, and she doesn’t turn and run. Is this relationship going to last or will something break them apart?
I read this in one day.
Valerie and her sister Nat have had a rough life, but they are finally settled and happy. Their past is best left in the past, but nothing is that simple, and trouble comes knocking.
When Valerie and Carlyle meet there is an instant attraction, and when Valerie needs help after a threatening phone call Carlyle is only too happy to help. Slowly Carlyle opens up to Valerie about what he does for a living, and she doesn’t turn and run. Is this relationship going to last or will something break them apart?
I read this in one day.
Read
July 26, 2020I knew this book was going to be amazing from the moment we met Carlyle in the 1st book in this series. He is a very ruthless mob boss and when Carlyle wants something, he makes sure he gets it all. In this book he wants Valerie. Valerie is very guarded in her life and she has built walls around herself but Carlyle eventually breaks them down to begin a very sexy and explosive relationship with Valerie. Lots of drama and suspense but what truly captivated me was Carlyle's softer side especially with Valerie. I loved this book and I am so wanting more of these amazing characters in books to come.
I received an arc copy and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an arc copy and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 17, 2020
Carlyle had a dark well written plot that was packed with many emotions. Raven Scott did a great job on it. Carlyle and Valerie were strong characters, nothing about their journey was an easy one, their journey was a rollercoaster, they had many ups and downs but they were drawn to one another. The connection between them was strong, their chemistry was off the charts, it was sexy. They were made for each other, they were good together.
I enjoyed this book, it was a great story. Thank you, Raven Scott. Great work :)
I enjoyed this book, it was a great story. Thank you, Raven Scott. Great work :)
May 3, 2020
Truly an awesome pairing of characters.
He’s strong and a criminal beast. Where she is beauty but strong...
This book is truly filled with twist and turns... and sexy as well. I will definitely be reading this one again, after I read Theo’s story.
I voluntarily received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout, and any opinions expressed within this review are solely and uniquely made by me and I am happily leaving this review.
He’s strong and a criminal beast. Where she is beauty but strong...
This book is truly filled with twist and turns... and sexy as well. I will definitely be reading this one again, after I read Theo’s story.
I voluntarily received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout, and any opinions expressed within this review are solely and uniquely made by me and I am happily leaving this review.
May 5, 2020
This is a great read. Carlyle and Valerie had sizzling chemistry and were great together. The story was well-written with a storyline that had plenty of drama, action, suspense, twists/turns, surprises, intrigue, mystery, romance and steam. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it!
I received an advanced readers copy of this book through Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
I received an advanced readers copy of this book through Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
May 7, 2020
An entertaining mafia story where the no nonsense mafia boss is captivated by the feisty heroine, Valerie. Valerie has her own secrets and is just as guarded as Carlyle. Both characters have their masks in place but they are starting to slip. This story is fast paced and full of twists to keep things moving forward. Enjoy!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
May 7, 2020Just like the book before this one which this is a continuation of the story line was a good story but again I thought it was hard to follow, keep track of. It jumped around and I'd lose my train of thought. But if you want to take the time to re read some parts to get back on track then its a good story. The story is a sexy one with lots of intrigue.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 20, 2020
This book tells the dark story of the romance between Carlyle, a mafia boss, and Valerie, who has her own hidden secrets. The novel is a fantastic read with its flawed and complex characters and a plot full of mafia violence, action, twists, and sizzling romance. This is a great read which keeps you on the edge of your seat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 25, 2020
I voluntarily read and reviewed this as an ARC
Carlyle and Valerie pulled me in and had me acknowledging both sides of human nature. On one hand, I experienced the rage of retribution that can be terrifying and yet felt justifiable at the same time. Then there is the sweeter side of Carlyle that was surprising to say the least. There is more to their story, I hope, in the continuing books in this series and a the anticipation is killing me!
Carlyle and Valerie pulled me in and had me acknowledging both sides of human nature. On one hand, I experienced the rage of retribution that can be terrifying and yet felt justifiable at the same time. Then there is the sweeter side of Carlyle that was surprising to say the least. There is more to their story, I hope, in the continuing books in this series and a the anticipation is killing me!
July 31, 2020
This book brings us Carlyle and Valerie. Valerie is not afraid of Carlyle, but she should be. Carlyle is a mafia boss, in charge of almost everything. There is an instant attraction when they both meet, however due to several twists, turns, and danger. I really enjoy when these huge, scary, mafia men fall for women who completely change who they are. I did receive an arc for an honest review.
September 23, 2020
This is the second book in the series and it doesn't disappoint.
I loved the chemistry between Carlyle and Valerie but will she still want him when she finds out what he does for a living.
When she needs help and protection he is there for her.
Plenty of drama and a bit of suspense but also their love shines through.
A must read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the chemistry between Carlyle and Valerie but will she still want him when she finds out what he does for a living.
When she needs help and protection he is there for her.
Plenty of drama and a bit of suspense but also their love shines through.
A must read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2020
The second book in The Syndicate series, this is the story of Carlyle and Valerie. Carlyle is one scary dude. Valerie has her secrets. They have good chemistry. The suspense, drama, twists, and passion kept the story interesting and engaging. I enjoyed this story more than the first one. I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2020
A really great read full of drama, intrigue, mystery, surprises, and romance. It seemed as though all the main characters and most of the sub characters had some twists and turns to their part in the story. It all resulted in a page-turner that I stayed up and read over night.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2020
A great an easy to read, nicely paced through out, with detailed scenes and dialogue. Filled with all we love about dark mafia romances, suspense, lust, emotions and more! great developed characters that draw you in to Valarie and Carlyle tale.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 3, 2020
This is the story of Valerie and Carlyle. She is feisty and isn’t afraid of Carlyle. He is about to claim her and consume her. There are so many twists in this story that kept me reading until I finished it. I enjoyed the intrigue, drama and passion in this romance. I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 3, 2020
This was a hot steamy erotic romance story perfect for a quick afternoon read.
A great heart pounding read. The story was very well written with great characters. It drew me in and I had it finished in one sitting. I would highly recommend this read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A great heart pounding read. The story was very well written with great characters. It drew me in and I had it finished in one sitting. I would highly recommend this read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book from Booksprout.
Wow, this book started with a bang! I have not read the previous book but from reading this one, it sounds like they're continuing from the previous one. Carlyle seem like a psychopath to me. He kills people for little to no reason. I enjoyed this book but it can get a bit darker.
Wow, this book started with a bang! I have not read the previous book but from reading this one, it sounds like they're continuing from the previous one. Carlyle seem like a psychopath to me. He kills people for little to no reason. I enjoyed this book but it can get a bit darker.
May 4, 2020
Book 2 from The Sindicate series, present us Carlyle - the boss of more important criminal organization in the world.
And also Valerie, the woman who stole his black heart.
And between that continues Illya and Theo story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
And also Valerie, the woman who stole his black heart.
And between that continues Illya and Theo story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2020
Good story.
Valerie meets Carlyle. Carlyle is a ruthless mob boss who wants her. Valerie has secrets in her past. Carlyle is having trouble with his territory, as well as betrayal within his ranks. He shows no mercy to his enemies. Valerie slowly warms up to him. There are steamy scenes, as well as violent ones. There are twists to the plot.
Valerie meets Carlyle. Carlyle is a ruthless mob boss who wants her. Valerie has secrets in her past. Carlyle is having trouble with his territory, as well as betrayal within his ranks. He shows no mercy to his enemies. Valerie slowly warms up to him. There are steamy scenes, as well as violent ones. There are twists to the plot.
May 7, 2020
I enjoyed Carlyle and Valerie's thrilling read! This one definitely delivers a punch with action, danger, suspense, romance, steam and great twists and turns. This story is nicely developed and well written. The chemistry between these two characters is off the charts, hot!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.*
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.*
May 9, 2020
This story consisted of extreme violence and jealousy between Carlye and his brothers. The twins at the beginning of the story appeared to be just close because they only have each other. But, as you get into their lives you will realize these ladies needed each to survive their past, present and their future.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews