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Gangsters and Dolls #4

Double Edged Hearts

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We were always a heartbreak waiting to happen…

She never belonged in my world of bloodshed and danger.

The criminal underworld.

She’s the good girl. The angel.

I’m the devil. Dark and ruthless.

A dangerous man who blew into her life like a raging storm.

When she left my bed four years ago, it should have been the end of us.

Women are a weakness I can’t afford.

Now she’s back in Chicago.

Reappearing like the ghosts that haunt me.

But now there are more reasons to leave her alone.

I’m a mobster and she’s a fed.

She’s off-limits. Completely forbidden to me.

I planned to stay away.

Until the day she needed someone to save her.

The only person I trust to protect her is me.

When dark secrets spill and scatter at our feet, our lives become a game of survival.

A game where truth is lies, and lies are truth.

She’s mine, whether she wants to be or not.

Mine to love.

Mine to save.

Even if it cost me everything…

**This is book four in the Gangsters and Dolls series but it can be read as a complete standalone. It is a full-length novel that contains NO-CLIFFHANGERS, and has a HEA. It is a HOT Mafia romance and contains subject matter not suitable for all readers. **

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 5, 2020

68 people are currently reading
158 people want to read

About the author

Khardine Gray

126 books851 followers
Khardine Gray is a USA Today Bestselling author who also writes under the pen name Faith Summers.
Khardine lives in England with her husband and two adventurous kids.
She writes contemporary romance, dark romantic suspense, and dark new adult romance.
Her books have sassy heroines and sexy, drool-worthy book boyfriends who will make you melt.
She simply adores her readers and loves spoiling them.
When she’s not writing or reading, you can find her in a ballet class or ice skating.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
2,354 reviews14 followers
October 5, 2020
Omg Omg, why have I been missing Khardine's writing, where the heckassees have it been. I am upset with myself that I read this and loved and found out this is the fourth book, whaaaat?... Well that will quickly be remedied, I am about to put the do not disturb on my phone and aget to reading!! Bye

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for BP34.
6,325 reviews47 followers
August 13, 2020
This is the fourth book in the Gangsters and Dolls Series by Khardine Gray but can be read as a standalone. If you like mafia romances you'll enjoy this book. She was the angel and he was the devil. He was into a world of darkness, crimes, and danger, while she was a fed. The chemistry between Cora and Alex was explosive. Be prepared for a roller coaster of emotions in this forbidden romance. She needs saving and he is determined to be her savior. Well written with complex characters and a page-turning plot. Get comfy because once you start reading, you'll find this book har to put down. No cliffhanger and a HEA. I read an Advance Reader Copy of this story and am voluntarily posting a review.
4,586 reviews19 followers
August 13, 2020
The fourth book in this series is as good as the previous three were. I absolutely loved the dual point of view of Cora and Alex. It was a very well written story, developed characters. A good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews70 followers
August 6, 2020
⚖️⚖️ONE ROUGH RIDING TREAT⚖️⚖️
Hatching hellhounds! Khardine blows through on gale force winds, riding the wrath of nature and wiping out everything in her path, blazing onward with a vengeance, kicking ass and rolling with the flow, blasting this bad boy to life spectacularly. Restrictions are heightened and exploited, laying out the ruthless facts, deals and debacles, igniting desire with such vigor, riding the currents and breaching waves, tossing this jewel into a frenzy with a mind-blowing realization. A raging tempest of suspicious mishaps and dubious circumstances, observant of the staggering trials and arduous tribulations, marking the deadly twist and intricate turns, catapulting those churning emotions into play front and center. Traversing through the dark cunning manipulations of heinous actions and malicious intent, checking allies and dispatching foes, propelling this baby to staggering heights. The raw magnetism, undeniable attraction and sizzling chemistry collides with such intensity, drawing you deeper until you feel the electrifying hum running rampant through your veins. The characters, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits add diversity, transforming into genuine charismatic personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Khardine, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
Profile Image for B. Koe.
948 reviews11 followers
August 7, 2020
Compelling and emotional intrigue within the captivating chemistry of a GREAT love story!
Nothing engulfs my imagination like a good mystery/thriller unless it is an emotional twisty romance. Combine the two like author Khardine Gray does in her latest Gangsters and Dolls release, DOUBLE EDGED HEARTS, and time stops, and one is transported to the streets of Chicago, USA. The protagonists, Cora and Alex, exude a seductive chemistry that enthralls; and for those who have not read the other titles in the Gangsters and Dolls series, readers can start with DOUBLE EDGED HEARTS as each novel is a standalone. While there is a reoccurring cast of characters, each novel focuses on one amazing anti-hero and his doll. The scenes between Alex and Cora are beyond hot and because this is a Mafia romance there is violence and some discussion of earlier events that could trigger some. So, no readers under the age of 18, please. However, if you are 18 or older and like to read about a love that has endured so many trials, enjoy reading romances that are sensuous, steamy, yet oh-so-enticing, and/or are looking for a novel that’s non-stop action will keep you focused, then DOUBLE EDGED HEARTS should be your next romance purchase. I jumped at the opportunity to voluntarily read an early copy of DOUBLE EDGED HEARTS, and I found it to be as twisty and unexpected as the blurb suggested. This is my honest and voluntary 5-STAR review. Treat yourself to a different kind of heat this summer and purchase your copy of DOUBLE EDGED HEARTS, today. Happy pages! 😉
2,613 reviews26 followers
August 15, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "DOUBLED EDGED HEARTS" This is another excellent book in Gangster & Dolls Series you don't want to miss it's full of suspense, intrigue, angst, betrayal, secrets revealed, hot steamy scenes, danger, intense drama, twists that make for a very page turning read.
Cora and Alex haven't seen one another in 4yrs she was there when he was going through a rough time after killing his brother Jude the 5th member of Claudius crew the biggest boss in all of Chicago along with Dante and Gio.
Alex killed Jude when he tried to take out Claudius he feels like the guys don't really trust him after what his brother did.
Alex finds out Cora is back in town hunting down Matvey Kuznetsov he has links with a syndicate of international terrorists called "THE HAND" he's in Chicago and her and partner Lindsay now Feds are looking for him when she goes to her room he's there they spend hot steamy night together he gone come morning.
Claudius calls a meeting of the crew Gio, Dante & Alex at the end Claudius confronts him about seeing Cora and ask if he's going to see her again she a Fed and that puts them all at risk if he does he'll have to use more forcefully measures or even kill him if not cut him loose he's OK with that.
I definitely recommend to get this book and follow Cora and Alex's journey to see if they get their HEA so well written it a must have book for sure so much happens it draws you in from beginning to end.
2,060 reviews2 followers
September 19, 2020
This is book four in this Gangsters and Dolls Series and we get #4’s story, Alex who is a Capo in the Chicago mafia and it’s been one hard fought life that has had more hurt then most can survive. Four years ago his doll, Cora left him with no way to find her and Alex has tried to move on so when she mysteriously shows up in their private garden Alex finds her to try and make her his doll again. Cora helped the guys in a previous story as a hacker and has become a Federal Agent fighting against people like him. Claudius puts his foot down and tells Alex if he helps Cora again he is out as those out to get Cora have threatened them, their wife’s and children with death. These two still love one another and know they can not be together so Cora ends their short relationship and puts her faith in Richard’s hand as he took her in years ago after her parents died and he showed her years ago that Alex and his way of life was not good for her. When secrets are discovered Cora becomes a direct target for those out to cause harm to many and when her life becomes in danger, Alex steps up and does what he can to keep her safe! Alex and his brothers may be involved in the mafia but they do live by some very interesting codes and end up doing what they do best, taking care of those out for one of their own. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
1,476 reviews20 followers
September 7, 2020
This book is a romantic, suspense, drama with deadly consequences!
by sewsummore

Coraline was back in Chicago after four years away. The memories of that day still haunted her and the reasons why she left him, and despite the years in between, she still loved him. Alex never knew why disappeared, at first he thought she had died, but then he learned she was alive and living in Las Angeles and was now a FBI agent. As a senior member of the Mafia in Chicago, their lives could never be further apart. It was after he learned that she had visited their secret garden,' that he went to see her. It was as if the years between had never been, their lovemaking was just as intense as their very first time, and in the morning he was gone, just like she told him. I found this book an addictive read, the relationship between the two lovers made compelling reading. The FBI were chasing a known criminal mastermind who had surfaced in Chicago and Cora was a member of the team sent to track and discover why. Alex warned her it was dangerous, but she never listened until she was taken by the man. This book is a romantic suspense drama with deadly consequences, read it if you dare!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

11.8k reviews48 followers
May 10, 2021
They may be on opposites sides of the law but he will always keep her safe and protected

Double Edged Hearts is the fourth book in the Gangsters and Dolls series and is the story of Alex Bellatone and Coraline "Cora" Monroe. Cora and Alex had been closer than close at one point. But then she disappeared from his life for four years. Now she is back and they have gone in two very different directions with their lives. Cora is an FBI agent and Alex is a Capo in the Mafia, one of the "Four" in Chicago. Cora is on the hunt for a dangerous man who is supposed to have come to Chicago. When she and Alex cross paths again things are tense between them. But Alex cannot forget Cora nor does he want to let her go. So he watches over her to make sure she is safe and protected. This semi obsession causes issues with Claudius but Alex will not turn his back on Cora. So when Cora uncovers secrets that make her a target it is Alex who will ensure she is safe. But will Cora walk away again or will she stay with Alex and life their HEA?

I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
185 reviews4 followers
August 19, 2020
Four years ago Alex and Cora were lovers until she left him suddenly and with no explanation. She was the hacker who was an asset to the mafia back in the day. Now she's back and worse she is now a federal agent with the FBI while Alex is still in deep with the mob. Hooking up again could end badly for both of them but one night was all it took for both to throw caution to the wind. Add the fact that her latest case will put her in grave danger, there is no way Alex will lose her again. He will protect her whether she wants it or not even if it costs him his own life.

Alex and Cora's story was different and quite easy for me to read and relate to. It was rather refreshing to note that Cora was not some wide eyed innocent when they first met. She was a highly skilled hacker whose services were available to the highest bidder. I have never read this author before but based on this book I would do so again.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Judy Johnson.
843 reviews2 followers
November 26, 2020
Tons of intrigue, heat, and suspense which just adds to the chemistry in this super explosive must-read! Emotional and twisty are just two of the descriptors that make this book a page-turner that will keep you up past your bedtime. This book pulled me in so completely, although I received an ARC for review, I purchased a copy so I could have a 'finished' book for my library. A true tugger of heartstrings, this book has everything you desire in a well-written mafia romance - secrets, steam, heartbreak, suspense, betrayal, and even had me reacting out loud at some points. Moving on, no spoilers in my reviews, there is a HEA and the above info is what you need to know if you are truly a romance fan! One-click this now, you won't be sorry! PS - although you would do yourself a favor to read the books before this, you can jump into this book as a standalone just fine without having done that...however, you will definitely want to read the others after you read this, if for no other reason, because they are just plain great reads.
Profile Image for Kelly  DeMarco.
1,932 reviews4 followers
August 8, 2020
Fear of danger lands her in danger anyway and a second chance
Double Edged Hearts (Gangsters and Dolls Book 4) by Khardine Gray is a well written mafia romance book with lots of steamy, a second chance, violence, danger and suspense.
Alex’s story is bittersweet. His lost love, Cora is back, but there seems to be no way for reconciliation. Cora is clearly still in love with Alex and something other than her job is keeping her from him.
The plot of this Gangsters and Dolls book is exactly as the title suggests, it’s absolutely double edged, double the trouble and double the danger with serious bad guys and the worst of the worst who were supposed to be the best.
Overall, this mafia romance is an edge of your seat fear fest with the best outcome of all; justice Gangsters and Dolls style and a long overdue HEA for Cora and Alex.
I read an ARC of this book and voluntarily share my review.
944 reviews3 followers
August 16, 2020
Gripping, captivating and exceptionally well written story with intrigue, shootings, corruption, kidnapping, a daring rescue, blackmail, twists and turns and intense chemistry. The story line and the plot astonishing and draws the reader in with lots of intrigue action and suspense and succeeds in keeping the reader on the edge of their seat, captivated and with baited breath.

The characters have depth and growth tangled with realistic array of emotions ranging from mistrust, disgust, disappointment, hatred, sorrow, protection and love. The lies and secrets uncovered is nothing short of jaw dropping and heartbreaking for Coraline. Alex is doing his best to protect Coraline but it seems like the bad guys are always a few steps ahead and it might be time for Alex to draw on all the resources available to save the love of his life and get his HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
6,573 reviews27 followers
August 15, 2020
Another well written mafia romance in The Guys and Dolls series. Each of these stories are a wonderful mix of danger intrigue and romance with a side of steam While each can be read as a stand alone there are cross over characters that i think making it better to read them all in order.

This is the story of Alex Bellantone he is the third capo to Claudius MorIentz he along with the other two capo's Dante & Gio are known as the four there stories are the previous three books. Alex and Coraline Monroe had a relationship years earlier she helped him with his demons and he kept her a secret this eventually broke them up Now she has returned but she is a FBI agent he is still attracted to her and wants her but can he have a relationship with someone in the FBI Claudius isn't happy about it at all. Can they find away to be together You will have to read to see
Profile Image for Jennifer.
1,086 reviews9 followers
August 12, 2020
Coraline Monroe and Alex Bellantoni are superbly crafted characters in this riveting release. Ms. Khardine Gray has a huge hit on her hands with this absolutely exquisite storyline. Dramatic and intriguing as well as sexy, what more could you ask for?

While they both walk on opposing sides, they are just drawn together by an obsession that just might ruin them both. This is book four of The Gangsters and Dolls Series. While it can definitely be read as a stand-alone release, I truly recommend reading them all. Trust me when I say, this is a very talented Author that raises the bar everytime.

I received an advanced reader's copy of Double Edged Hearts in exchange for my honest and voluntarily given opinion and I hope that reader's everywhere pick up this book.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
1,574 reviews
August 18, 2020
I received this ARC from Bad Boy Updates. I am so in love with this series! This is Alex's story. Alex is one of the Claudius's 4 Capos and would lay down his life for him. Life hasn't been easy for him, but now that SHE is back in town he knows something is going to happen. Cora has loved Alex for years and left suddenly years ago. She is back in Chicago and working for the feds, but she can't resist the pull of Alex. They both have demons they keep hidden, but can't keep them apart. As things get tense for the Family and secrets are exposed, Alex is told to make a choice....the Family or Cora. Now the drama ramps up as Alex will do whatever it takes to protect her, but will Cora do the same? It's sooo good!!
748 reviews2 followers
August 21, 2020
Love on opposite sides of the law

When Cora left she just left. No good byes, no explaining what was going on. She was just gone. When she shows up again after four years Alex wonders what she’s doing back in town. And now she’s a Fed. Seems her uncle finally convinced her to use her talents on the opposite side of the law from him. Now he has to make a choice, his “family” or Cora.

Cora left after her uncle told her what happened the night her parents died. And it made her look at Alex and the life that he leads in a new light. A new, ugly light. She never intends to see him again but she’s been called back to Chicago for a case, and Alex comes to her. Their love burns bright but will it turn them to ash or will it light the way?
Profile Image for Sylvie Rochon.
2,515 reviews
August 9, 2020
A thrilling story about second chances, mafia brotherhood, betrayals and twists. This is book 4 of the series Gangsters and dolls. I have not read the first 3 but I surely will now. Though this is can be read as a standalone I see the value in getting to know the other characters and their stories. This story features the fourth capo of Chicago, Alex and FBI agent and former lover Cora. I was happy that Vincent and Salvatore Giordano had a cameo from another series I loved, Dark Odysee Club.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,186 reviews
August 13, 2020
Exciting addition to the series!

A second chance mafia love story that doesn’t disappoint. The third book in Gangsters and Dolls series gives us Four’s story and it’s filled with danger, suspense and excitement. Alex (Four) finds himself in a particular situation as past love Cora who’s now a fed returns to his life. What happens next will have you at the edge of your seat as their life and love is tested. Great chemistry and an exciting storyline made for an entertaining read. Can’t wait for Donny’s story.
1,936 reviews7 followers
August 18, 2020
Alex is a Capo. The woman who has his heart, Cora, is a fed. They know they can't be together but they truly can't be apart.
Alex must decide will he be with his Doll or with his family.
A story that will grab you from the start. You know all is not truthful with what us happening with the feds. You know Alex is torn more than he ever thought possible.
You'll know Alex us sleazy but you might not see the other surprises coming.
You won't put it down until you find out if Alex chooses Cora or his job. And what happens with The Four when Cora is in trouble.
Thisis a honest voluntary review.
Profile Image for Leanne Bryson.
5,246 reviews23 followers
August 19, 2020
This series by Karadine Gray is absolutely one of my favorites. This is the fourth book in the Gangster & Dolls series and it does not disappoint. Alex and Cora story has been a long time coming and was worth the wait. The chemistry between these two is intense even though they are on opposite sides of the law. the book is packed with action, twists, and steamy, se*y fun. I've loved them all and you can read them all on KU with your subscription. Definitely a binge worthy series!
I received an ARC from Bad Boy Update and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Elsie Pitt.
1,753 reviews13 followers
August 19, 2020
I could not put this book down! It kept me on the edge of my seat! Not only is it hot but it will gladly burn you! I have found that ALL the books are like this in this series. Not one of the books has been bad. This one is no different. It is a mafia romance and it will get your heart pumping. This one is about Cora and Alex. Now each of these characters are strong willed and determined. So do not think that for one minute you can let your guard down. I think these two will leave you rivetted. It did me!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,620 reviews9 followers
August 21, 2020
This was the fourth book in this series, and it was amazing. From the moment I picked it up and began reading I was hooked. This book is full of twist and turns, it is full of sit on the edge of your seat do not know what is going to happen next and it is full of steam. Honestly, what more could you want in a book. The characters are well developed, and the story line is very intriguing. This was definitely a good addition to this series. I am looking forward to reading more by this author. I voluntarily reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Merry Jelks-Emmanuel.
13.7k reviews156 followers
October 18, 2022
Alex and Cora's story will have your emotions running high. She is FBI and he's mafia who will do anything for the love of his woman. A woman who can't seem to commit. They have history but it ended and now they have reconnected. Will they rekindle their love and have a second chance for a happily ever after or will the past repeat itself? This story is filled with action and drama that will keep you engrossed in Alex and Cora's story from start to finish. I voluntarily agreed to receive an ARC of this book for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kat.
779 reviews24 followers
August 12, 2020
I haven’t read previous books in this series but was able to catch up quickly. The characters are interconnected but each book can be read as a stand-alone.
The story grabbed my attention right from the start and I read it in one sitting. Cora and Alex had intense and sizzling hot chemistry, and their story is definitely one roller coaster ride! True to the mafia storyline, there is a lot of suspense, violence and danger that will keep you glued to your reader.
I look forward to read more!
2,084 reviews10 followers
August 12, 2020
Cora and Alex have known each other for years. At one point she disappeared, with no explanation given to Alex as to why. Now she has returned to Chicago as a FBI agent working a case involving a Russian arms trafficker. Oh yeah, and she has a rather creepy boss. Then throw in a potential dirty FBI agent, some horrific killings, and hot chemistry between Cora and Alex - you won't be able to put this book down.

Profile Image for Deb.
7,601 reviews37 followers
August 24, 2020
A fantastic story that was filled with drama, suspense and intrigue as well as a love story that was filled with engaging characters and memorable scenes. The author wove a tale of mystery and mafia with the loss of loved ones so vividly that it was hard to put this story down. The emotional connection ran throughout the entire story. I was hooked from the very first page. Great storytelling.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
6,577 reviews35 followers
August 24, 2020
An entertaining second chance book four in the Gangsters and Dolls series! The story-line is well written, well developed, and action-packed with suspense, twists and turns, drama, mystery, danger, and so much more. The characters you will love; the chemistry between them is explosive! This story is guaranteed to pull you in, grab hold of you, and leave you wanting more. Strongly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
423 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2021
Alex!

I really loved Alex and Cora the story was intense and the sex scenes were really hot! I was into the book .Cora trusted Richard and Zack and didn't trust Alex and he was the most trustworthy one .I loved that Claudius came back to help Alex and the whole team came out to save Cora I love it! I love all of Khardine's books they are addictive the right amount of action,betrayal,and most of all the bonding of the Four.I can't wait for the last book .
Profile Image for Tammy Ambers.
34 reviews1 follower
August 10, 2020
Heart-stopping

Alex seems to be a lost cause when it comes to Cora. He will do anything without thinking clearly. The fact he is willing to give it all up, including his life for a woman who can't commit to him, seems crazy. Will he die for love will she ever make a smart choice. Who is the villain in this entire ordeal? Bet you will never guess til it's too late.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews

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