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The Syndicates #3
Haruaki
Cleo
My life isn’t perfect. Being the Irish Princess of Chicago doesn’t do me any favors. Instead, it puts a target on my back.
When I’m presented for a marriage contract, I feel like an animal being led to auction.
Until I meet him.
I shouldn’t be drawn towards him, but the closer I get, the harder I fall.
He is supposed to be the enemy, so why does he feel like my salvation?
Kai
I live my life on the edge, giving into every impulse and living recklessly. Being the dark prince of the Yakuza comes with many perks. Especially when you are feared the way I am.
When my enemy begins to barter for his precious daughter, I can’t help but toy with her.
Until I meet her.
She is gorgeous, innocent, and everything I should avoid, but I’ve never let that stop me before.
I’ll do anything to keep her because I knew the moment my lips touched hers, she was mine.
My life isn’t perfect. Being the Irish Princess of Chicago doesn’t do me any favors. Instead, it puts a target on my back.
When I’m presented for a marriage contract, I feel like an animal being led to auction.
Until I meet him.
I shouldn’t be drawn towards him, but the closer I get, the harder I fall.
He is supposed to be the enemy, so why does he feel like my salvation?
Kai
I live my life on the edge, giving into every impulse and living recklessly. Being the dark prince of the Yakuza comes with many perks. Especially when you are feared the way I am.
When my enemy begins to barter for his precious daughter, I can’t help but toy with her.
Until I meet her.
She is gorgeous, innocent, and everything I should avoid, but I’ve never let that stop me before.
I’ll do anything to keep her because I knew the moment my lips touched hers, she was mine.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 19, 2021
143 people are currently reading
653 people want to read
About the author
Cala Riley
62 books780 followersCala Riley, better known as Cala and Riley, are a pair of friends with a deep seated love of books and writing. Both Cala and Riley are happily married and each have children, Cala with the four-legged kind while Riley has a mixture of both two-legged and four. While they live apart, that does not affect their connection. They are the true definition of family. What started as an idea that quickly turned into a full-length book and a bond that will never end.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
February 22, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
''Only death will separate us now.''
Safety warnings:
- H 28 / h 18
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Physical abuse
- Attempted s*xual advances
- Mention of s*xual abuse
- Mention of addiction
- Loss of loved ones
- Violence/m*rder
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
Oh, Kai you are the dark prince of reader dreams.
We briefly saw Kai and Cleo (in Killian's book) and I knew this forbidden romance would be amazing and I have to say it is not disappointing at all.
Everything Kai does and plans prior to Cleo is to take down his own brutal father who he despises. Sadly, the Yakuza and Cleo's father are NOT on good terms and Cleo is also treated horribly by her own father.
Cleo now finally eighteen is being used as a chess piece for her father to use and gain more support in order to take down Killian and take his spot. Thankfully Killian is not oblivious of his former good friend becoming unhinged and lacks any trust in him when it comes to his goddaughter/niece Cleo. He is currently her only savior along with Callum who becomes her guard from her father’s plans until they find her the man to marry.
3 candidates:
Italian (who seems like he just wants a homemaker and baby maker)
Russian (the family her father is working with and promised his daughter to and they are just the worst, and while the son is the one who is first set to be the candidate, his father is also very much interested. GROSS and the worst part is Cleo’s father leaves her ALONE with them and basically says to let the old man fuck her).
Japanese (Kai places his name into the pot and because of how Cleo finds comfort within him, Killian allows it).
I love how this series does not make any of the main men (so far) CRUEL and disrespectful fo the women in their lives.
Cleo and Kai fall for each other hard and fast, and kai is attempting to make sure she is safe and will be chosen as her husband.
I loved them together and Kai was perfect.
I think you need to read this book and understand how great they are and how wonderful their love story becomes.
Also, I did NOT see Callum's backstory and how it was connected to Cleo at all. Finding out he is her half-brother was amazing and it made so much sense when it came to his concerns for her and keeping her safe above all else. We know him as Killian's second in command so him being placed as her guard was odd, but you just assume that's how much her safety means to everyone around Killian but it's because that's his sister and her safety is priority.
We also meet Kenji who I know has his own book later on in this series!
Overall, this book and Killian were amazing. Hopefully this theme continues!
''Only death will separate us now.''
Safety warnings:
- H 28 / h 18
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Physical abuse
- Attempted s*xual advances
- Mention of s*xual abuse
- Mention of addiction
- Loss of loved ones
- Violence/m*rder
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
Oh, Kai you are the dark prince of reader dreams.
We briefly saw Kai and Cleo (in Killian's book) and I knew this forbidden romance would be amazing and I have to say it is not disappointing at all.
Everything Kai does and plans prior to Cleo is to take down his own brutal father who he despises. Sadly, the Yakuza and Cleo's father are NOT on good terms and Cleo is also treated horribly by her own father.
Cleo now finally eighteen is being used as a chess piece for her father to use and gain more support in order to take down Killian and take his spot. Thankfully Killian is not oblivious of his former good friend becoming unhinged and lacks any trust in him when it comes to his goddaughter/niece Cleo. He is currently her only savior along with Callum who becomes her guard from her father’s plans until they find her the man to marry.
3 candidates:
Italian (who seems like he just wants a homemaker and baby maker)
Russian (the family her father is working with and promised his daughter to and they are just the worst, and while the son is the one who is first set to be the candidate, his father is also very much interested. GROSS and the worst part is Cleo’s father leaves her ALONE with them and basically says to let the old man fuck her).
Japanese (Kai places his name into the pot and because of how Cleo finds comfort within him, Killian allows it).
I love how this series does not make any of the main men (so far) CRUEL and disrespectful fo the women in their lives.
Cleo and Kai fall for each other hard and fast, and kai is attempting to make sure she is safe and will be chosen as her husband.
I loved them together and Kai was perfect.
I think you need to read this book and understand how great they are and how wonderful their love story becomes.
Also, I did NOT see Callum's backstory and how it was connected to Cleo at all. Finding out he is her half-brother was amazing and it made so much sense when it came to his concerns for her and keeping her safe above all else. We know him as Killian's second in command so him being placed as her guard was odd, but you just assume that's how much her safety means to everyone around Killian but it's because that's his sister and her safety is priority.
We also meet Kenji who I know has his own book later on in this series!
Overall, this book and Killian were amazing. Hopefully this theme continues!
August 22, 2021
2.5 stars
Haruaki is book 3 in The Syndicates series and not the best read for me. While it did have potential I found the writing rough and the overall story lacking. At this time I will not read anymore books in this series.
Haruaki is book 3 in The Syndicates series and not the best read for me. While it did have potential I found the writing rough and the overall story lacking. At this time I will not read anymore books in this series.
January 29, 2022
I was attracted by the book cover, it is so sexy))
This is not a dark romance, this is a novel about the origin of love. But I fell in love with a hero! He's the guy who will save his girlfriend and the world will blow up to hell!
This is not a dark romance, this is a novel about the origin of love. But I fell in love with a hero! He's the guy who will save his girlfriend and the world will blow up to hell!
August 20, 2021
Fantastically romantic!
Haruaki is the 3rd book Syndicate Series by Cala Reilly. This is the story of Cleo who is the cousin of the head of the Irish mafia and Kai, the son of the head of the Yakuza in Chicago. Cleo has been completely sheltered her entire life, but now that she’s 18, she’s being forced to attend a charity function that is really a cover for a neutral place for mobsters from around the world to come and look at “merchandise” in the form of the daughters of the mafia. Kai attends on a whim, planning on messing with the Cleo just to get a rise out of her family, but instead finds himself captivated by the fiery redhead and throws his hat in the ring. It becomes quickly apparent that there is dissension within the ranks of the Irish mob and Cleo’s life may be at stake. Kai will do anything - to include going up against her father and his - to keep Cleo safe.
I just loved this story so much. It was so super sweet and sexy all at the same time. The writing was fantastic and the storyline focused on their relationship development as well as the overarching story arc of the series. It did overlap slightly with some scenes from Killian, which will be familiar if you’ve read that story. With that being said, the story can easily be read as a standalone. Cleo is just wonderful. She’s a prisoner of circumstance, but still remains an optimist and wants to be in charge of her own destiny. The attraction is instantaneous and fiery for Kai as it is with her. Kai is known as a super impulsive, but fierce warrior. Once he finds out he is her first date and first kiss, he decides she’s “his” and wants to keep her. He’s super jealous, possessive and protective of her right from the beginning and the lack of relationship drama is wholly welcome, all the conflict comes from outside the relationship. Really can’t say enough about how sweet this story was - I can’t WAIT for the next one in the series!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: Enemies to lovers
Angst: 😰
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: none
Haruaki is the 3rd book Syndicate Series by Cala Reilly. This is the story of Cleo who is the cousin of the head of the Irish mafia and Kai, the son of the head of the Yakuza in Chicago. Cleo has been completely sheltered her entire life, but now that she’s 18, she’s being forced to attend a charity function that is really a cover for a neutral place for mobsters from around the world to come and look at “merchandise” in the form of the daughters of the mafia. Kai attends on a whim, planning on messing with the Cleo just to get a rise out of her family, but instead finds himself captivated by the fiery redhead and throws his hat in the ring. It becomes quickly apparent that there is dissension within the ranks of the Irish mob and Cleo’s life may be at stake. Kai will do anything - to include going up against her father and his - to keep Cleo safe.
I just loved this story so much. It was so super sweet and sexy all at the same time. The writing was fantastic and the storyline focused on their relationship development as well as the overarching story arc of the series. It did overlap slightly with some scenes from Killian, which will be familiar if you’ve read that story. With that being said, the story can easily be read as a standalone. Cleo is just wonderful. She’s a prisoner of circumstance, but still remains an optimist and wants to be in charge of her own destiny. The attraction is instantaneous and fiery for Kai as it is with her. Kai is known as a super impulsive, but fierce warrior. Once he finds out he is her first date and first kiss, he decides she’s “his” and wants to keep her. He’s super jealous, possessive and protective of her right from the beginning and the lack of relationship drama is wholly welcome, all the conflict comes from outside the relationship. Really can’t say enough about how sweet this story was - I can’t WAIT for the next one in the series!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: Enemies to lovers
Angst: 😰
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: none
March 7, 2024
Note to self.Hero only 2-3 inches taller than heroine.I like my heros tall,so in my head, he was over 6 feet .
After this one, I want to read Killians' book again.
After this one, I want to read Killians' book again.
August 10, 2021
Oh my freaking god!!! I love Kai!! He is hands down my favourite character that these two have ever written! Seriously I want him. He’s mine, I declare dibs!!! Honestly I swooned soo hard over basically everything this deliciously sexy man did! Just the description of him alone made me want him & add to it he’s a badass alpha male who is possessive as hell over his Queen! How can you not fall madly in love & lust with him!?! I devoured this book in one sitting. I just couldn’t put it down. By far in my opinion the best book these two have written it’s my fave!
Not only did I love Kai but I also have a massive girl crush on Cleo. These two are beyond cute together but also so damn sexy! I loved watching these two get to know one another. Not only that but that ending?! If that doesn’t show how absolutely perfect these two are for one another I don’t know what does. I loved the ending but was so sad the book was over. I’m going to want a novella of these two because I need more! The dark prince turned King with his Queen. I can only imagine all the havoc these two will cause & the kingdom they will create.
I could gush even more about how much I loved this book but seriously just read it! It will not disappoint! I’m almost sad I read it so fast because now it’s over but I will definitely be rereading it for years to come. Kai forever! 😍😍
Not only did I love Kai but I also have a massive girl crush on Cleo. These two are beyond cute together but also so damn sexy! I loved watching these two get to know one another. Not only that but that ending?! If that doesn’t show how absolutely perfect these two are for one another I don’t know what does. I loved the ending but was so sad the book was over. I’m going to want a novella of these two because I need more! The dark prince turned King with his Queen. I can only imagine all the havoc these two will cause & the kingdom they will create.
I could gush even more about how much I loved this book but seriously just read it! It will not disappoint! I’m almost sad I read it so fast because now it’s over but I will definitely be rereading it for years to come. Kai forever! 😍😍
October 11, 2021
I actually really loved this and will deffo read more from the author.
I ADORED KAI. As in, he’s the kind of alpha man I’d be so into. He’s all jealous and possessive but treats her as an equal.
I’m over these possessive men who say and dictate what their women should do (I’m maturing I guess muahaha)
I loved the story too. I would say it’s a SWEET mafia story but I believed in their love and how they fell.
100% safe. Virgin heroine. No OW drama.
I ADORED KAI. As in, he’s the kind of alpha man I’d be so into. He’s all jealous and possessive but treats her as an equal.
I’m over these possessive men who say and dictate what their women should do (I’m maturing I guess muahaha)
I loved the story too. I would say it’s a SWEET mafia story but I believed in their love and how they fell.
100% safe. Virgin heroine. No OW drama.
April 6, 2023
4.5 Romantic stars!
Haruaki is the third book in The Syndicates series and features Kai and Cleo. Kai is the son of the head of the Yakuza in Chicago and Cleo is the cousin of the head of the Irish mafia. Cleo knows the demanding and harsh world she lives in but despite that she is still naive and sheltered. When she turns 18 and attends a charity function it’s clear she is being paraded around for a husband. She knows it but doesn’t like it but lucky for her, there is one attendee that is about to change her life.
Kai attends the charity function fully prepared to just mess with Cleo and the other mobsters attending. But when he gets a private moment with her, everything changes. She may be sheltered but she is brazen, smart, and knows who she is as a woman. Kai is intrigued and fascinated by Cleo and now he will stop at nothing to make her his.
With Kai in the running for Cleo’s hand, there are also dangerous power struggles happening and Cleo might get caught in the middle. Kai is determined to keep her safe and protected…but maybe not from him.
This was another great installment in this series. I loved crazy dominant Kai and sweet yet fierce Cleo. This was more of slow burn but the tension between them was so well written. I just love this world Cala Riley has written.
Haruaki is the third book in The Syndicates series and features Kai and Cleo. Kai is the son of the head of the Yakuza in Chicago and Cleo is the cousin of the head of the Irish mafia. Cleo knows the demanding and harsh world she lives in but despite that she is still naive and sheltered. When she turns 18 and attends a charity function it’s clear she is being paraded around for a husband. She knows it but doesn’t like it but lucky for her, there is one attendee that is about to change her life.
Kai attends the charity function fully prepared to just mess with Cleo and the other mobsters attending. But when he gets a private moment with her, everything changes. She may be sheltered but she is brazen, smart, and knows who she is as a woman. Kai is intrigued and fascinated by Cleo and now he will stop at nothing to make her his.
“She’s about to become my obsession. My newest addiction. I won’t let her go.”
With Kai in the running for Cleo’s hand, there are also dangerous power struggles happening and Cleo might get caught in the middle. Kai is determined to keep her safe and protected…but maybe not from him.
“I’m going to make love to you until you’re so sore that even when you walk, you’ll remember the feel of me between your legs.”
This was another great installment in this series. I loved crazy dominant Kai and sweet yet fierce Cleo. This was more of slow burn but the tension between them was so well written. I just love this world Cala Riley has written.
“You ready to take on the world, Mrs. Takahasi?”
“With you, I think I can take on anything.”
“Well then, let’s get started.”
June 11, 2022
GAHHHHHH perfect!
Kai is the best *-*
yep i have heart eyes too the whole reading, loved him for her, he is perfect.
I finally got what i needed and wished from this author, hopefully i will find more books by her like this one.
I will need more of this Japs guys! i hope we will have their books also.
Kai is the best *-*
yep i have heart eyes too the whole reading, loved him for her, he is perfect.
I finally got what i needed and wished from this author, hopefully i will find more books by her like this one.
I will need more of this Japs guys! i hope we will have their books also.
August 20, 2021
I have read Russian, Irish and Italian mafia stories, but I never read one with the Yakuza. It's definitely interesting to read Kai's character. Kai and Cleo's story is definitely a fun read because it's not a dark one. I loved Kai's character. He's so possessive but not overbearing. And he treats Cleo better than any other mafia bosses I've read. He's kind of sweet too.
Their story was truly exciting to read and I was sucked into it from the very beginning. I'm looking forward to reading more from the author.
Their story was truly exciting to read and I was sucked into it from the very beginning. I'm looking forward to reading more from the author.
March 18, 2024
I could not get into this. I wanted to love it. I was confused then annoyed, then starting skimming to get somewhere with the story. At 48%, it was still boring and predictable.
Too much introduced at once. Blah, blah, blah, that was after 15%. Characters were annoying.
This is my opinion. You may love it so…
DNF for me.
Too much introduced at once. Blah, blah, blah, that was after 15%. Characters were annoying.
This is my opinion. You may love it so…
DNF for me.
May 13, 2024
RTC
This book fulfils my japanese bad boy hottie fantasy🥵
This book fulfils my japanese bad boy hottie fantasy🥵
August 16, 2021
This book is the best one in the series!! This book had it all: suspense, sexual tension, romance and some action.
Cleo is the Irish Mob Princess, she is finally 18 and her dad is ready to marry her off to the man that can make the best deal. Killian, her uncle, decides to take charge over who she will marry. (You get a little bit of their relationship in Killian's book). Kai is the dark prince of the Yakuza, he is reckless and impulse. He originally puts in a bid for Cleo just to mess around, but that changes and she must be his.
The chemistry between Cleo and Kai is insane! They have a little bit of an insta love but it soon turns into friendship, then something more. I love Cleo!!!!! She is a super sheltered girl that knows nothing at the beginning, but she is smart and ruthless when she needs to be (she has everyone fooled). But slowly over time, this sheltered girl starts busting out of her shell. She is the perfect queen for Kai, she is ruthless and not afraid to do/learn whatever she needs to. Blood does not scare her, only losing Kai does. Kai is a dark, dark man, but with Cleo he sees his light. He loves that she is sheltered and has only been with his, hello alpha. But he sees past the innocence and knows she can be the dark princess he needs.
Love this story!! And the twist, I did not see coming!! Callum needs his own story, he is such a sweetheart!
Cleo is the Irish Mob Princess, she is finally 18 and her dad is ready to marry her off to the man that can make the best deal. Killian, her uncle, decides to take charge over who she will marry. (You get a little bit of their relationship in Killian's book). Kai is the dark prince of the Yakuza, he is reckless and impulse. He originally puts in a bid for Cleo just to mess around, but that changes and she must be his.
The chemistry between Cleo and Kai is insane! They have a little bit of an insta love but it soon turns into friendship, then something more. I love Cleo!!!!! She is a super sheltered girl that knows nothing at the beginning, but she is smart and ruthless when she needs to be (she has everyone fooled). But slowly over time, this sheltered girl starts busting out of her shell. She is the perfect queen for Kai, she is ruthless and not afraid to do/learn whatever she needs to. Blood does not scare her, only losing Kai does. Kai is a dark, dark man, but with Cleo he sees his light. He loves that she is sheltered and has only been with his, hello alpha. But he sees past the innocence and knows she can be the dark princess he needs.
Love this story!! And the twist, I did not see coming!! Callum needs his own story, he is such a sweetheart!
June 27, 2022
4.5 stars
Forget about the Bratva, the Outfit, the Mob or the Cartel... here comes the Yakuza!
This book was a delight of a quick read, thanks to the light and engaging writing style of this duo of authors.
I read this in a total, and willing 😊, candid manner, refusing to stop and question any plot holes. I kid not when I say that I was reading this with a total silly grin on my face as I immersed myself luxuriously into the fun ride that the romance between Kai and Cleo was. These two were such sweet characters. I loved the sweetness and determination of Cleo. And Kai... omg Kai...😍 I want a Kai in my life too! He was sweet, solid, possessive, caring, a total slave to please and protect Cleo, a charmer with such wonderful words, patient and a total action man... in one word, perfect 😍🤩❤. The beauty of a man deeply in love is always a wonder to me ☺🥰. Their story was a tinged insta-love, with faint allusions to the Romeo & Juliet trope, and Kai and Cleo may be a smite diabetic at times, but I just don't care 😋🤩💃! They were cute and passionate and just what I needed to read to make me smile today and feel great 😁😊.
I think this is the first time I read a sweet Mafia romance book, which is a very nice change from all the dark ones (or so called dark ones) out there. I did not mind entering into the series at Book 3, it read well as a stand alone. There were also funny dialogues that made me smile silly, nice supporting characters (Callum, Kenji, Killian), no OW, low angst, sweet spice, some graphic violent scenes, some mafia OTT-ness, all wrapped in swift storytelling flow. No time to get bored. Now, I want to read Callum's book which is coming out later this year. I would not mind a Kenji book as well. The epilogue was a bit too short but was sweet. Maybe there will be a novelette to read more of Kai and Cleo someday 🥺🙏?
Trivia note: I understand why the mechanics of Mafia romances require that the h be young (18) and the H a bit older (like Kai is ten years older than Cleo) and that the h often acts a little more mature than in real life because of their upbringing. But for once, I would like a Mafia romance with less age gap, older characters and characters acting more their age, without this negatively affecting the plot and enjoyment of the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2022
Oh my heart - this is my favorite of this series so far!! I loved the suspense and heat and the characters so much.
Kai is just 🤤🤤🤤 - this young man is the heir to his father’s throne of the Yakuza. He is smart, ruthless, and fearless but when it comes to his Queen he is but a loyal servant to her.
Cleo is a mafia princess locked away in her tower by her horrible father until it is time for her hand in marriage to “auctioned” off to a suitable husband.
She is smarter than most realize, along with being braver and stronger than given credit for.
These two together had me savoring and devouring the words off the pages. Their chemistry is pure fire and the way they worship one another is swoon worthy. Add in the twists, surprises and perfect amount of suspense and steam that had me falling head over heels in love with these two and their story. I really enjoyed it from start to finish and I was sad to see it come to an end.
Cala and Riley blew me away again with this one (keeping it safe and free of any triggers but still a highly addictive read) - they intertwined characters from previous stories into this one along with making it possible to read this as a stand-alone effortlessly. They kept me on the edge of my seat and fanning myself steadily. I loved everything about it and can’t wait to see what they cook up for Nikolai.
Kai is just 🤤🤤🤤 - this young man is the heir to his father’s throne of the Yakuza. He is smart, ruthless, and fearless but when it comes to his Queen he is but a loyal servant to her.
Cleo is a mafia princess locked away in her tower by her horrible father until it is time for her hand in marriage to “auctioned” off to a suitable husband.
She is smarter than most realize, along with being braver and stronger than given credit for.
These two together had me savoring and devouring the words off the pages. Their chemistry is pure fire and the way they worship one another is swoon worthy. Add in the twists, surprises and perfect amount of suspense and steam that had me falling head over heels in love with these two and their story. I really enjoyed it from start to finish and I was sad to see it come to an end.
Cala and Riley blew me away again with this one (keeping it safe and free of any triggers but still a highly addictive read) - they intertwined characters from previous stories into this one along with making it possible to read this as a stand-alone effortlessly. They kept me on the edge of my seat and fanning myself steadily. I loved everything about it and can’t wait to see what they cook up for Nikolai.
August 28, 2021
~3.3 stars..
Had good premise and potential, but ended up feeling like mafia fairytail sort of story.
Lacks a bit of depth and a touch too insta-love for me. I mean the H is pretty awesome, but more like a "prince" than a mafia leader..
Had good premise and potential, but ended up feeling like mafia fairytail sort of story.
Lacks a bit of depth and a touch too insta-love for me. I mean the H is pretty awesome, but more like a "prince" than a mafia leader..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2022
📖 She’s about to become my obsession. My newest addiction.📖
Cleo has been the Irish princess locked in a tower waiting for her prince to set her free…. Only the prince that comes to her rescue is the dark prince of the yakuza. And this isn’t a sweet fairy tale, quite the opposite.
All her life, Cleo has been treated like a weak little girl, that is until she meets Kai. What starts off as an idea to mess with her family turns into so much more as Kai will do anything to make her his equal, his queen.
Cleo has been the Irish princess locked in a tower waiting for her prince to set her free…. Only the prince that comes to her rescue is the dark prince of the yakuza. And this isn’t a sweet fairy tale, quite the opposite.
All her life, Cleo has been treated like a weak little girl, that is until she meets Kai. What starts off as an idea to mess with her family turns into so much more as Kai will do anything to make her his equal, his queen.
August 22, 2021
Another entertaining and steamy book from Cala Riley. I can always count on this author duo to deliver a well-rounded mafia romance. Kai and Cleo made such an amazing pair, they complemented each other perfectly and their love story was both dangerous and sweet. I swooned so many times while reading this book. I only wish it was longer, but overall it was a great read.
January 27, 2022
This trope is my cat nip secret calls and dates. Kai being possessive as hell. Celo is very naive and sheltered but i liked that about her. Great read!! Their banter was everything.
Copy provided for free in exchange for a honest review all opinions are my own.
Copy provided for free in exchange for a honest review all opinions are my own.
October 29, 2023
OKAY THIS IS MY FAVE ONE YET
kai was so……out the roof by chase atlantic coded
cleo was so mirrorball too, UGH.
kai was so……out the roof by chase atlantic coded
cleo was so mirrorball too, UGH.
February 13, 2024
This one is my favorite in this series so far! Cleo’s backstory and the relationship deterioration between her and her father was essential to this story. Kai’s obsessive, protective behavior was the icing on the cake in this book for me… how he was literally everything she wanted was so cool. There were a couple of plot points that I really enjoyed calling out right before they happened, the lead up and breadcrumbs were well placed for those. Kai is 10/10 book boyfriend material.
November 8, 2021
Decent storyline, I enjoyed it overall. Kai was actually a sweetheart despite being a gangster.
I totally appreciate that the author ventured outside of the typical Italian/Russian/Irish mafia genre (although those groups are also included in this book), but I was a bit disappointed with the lack of Yakuza in this Yakuza romance. Change the names and descriptions of the gangsters and there was nothing that really distinguished them from those other groups. It would have been nice if the author had added more detail where that was concerned—like maybe Kenji could have been missing half a pinky and Kai could have explained what that meant to Cleona. Or Kai could have explained his tattoos and the significance of them, but that was glossed over and not revisited.
I totally appreciate that the author ventured outside of the typical Italian/Russian/Irish mafia genre (although those groups are also included in this book), but I was a bit disappointed with the lack of Yakuza in this Yakuza romance. Change the names and descriptions of the gangsters and there was nothing that really distinguished them from those other groups. It would have been nice if the author had added more detail where that was concerned—like maybe Kenji could have been missing half a pinky and Kai could have explained what that meant to Cleona. Or Kai could have explained his tattoos and the significance of them, but that was glossed over and not revisited.
August 20, 2021
Haruaki is another outstanding, sit on the edge of your seat book by Cala Riley. The sexual tension, chemistry, suspense and romance are off the charts.
Cleo is an Irish princess that is now of age to be shown off for marriage and that is not how she wants to live. She is a strong willed and feisty young lady that knows what she wants but her father has a different path for her. She is thankful that Kilian, her godfather and the leader of the Irish mafia, has control over who she will marry. She wants to marry for love, daddy dearest wants to join two mafia families for strength. When she meets Kia, Haruaki, at the gala, she decides that she is going to push the boundaries of what is expected of her. Will this stunt put her in danger with the Japanese Mafia, her father and Killian? What happens when Kia makes an offer for her hand? What happens when she is required to go on dates with all the men who have put an offer in for her hand? When her life is in danger, who will come to her rescue?
Kia, Haruaki, is the son of the head of the Japanese mafia and is known as the Dark Prince. He is trying to take over for his father however, his father and him do not see eye to eye. Kia wants to run things differently and is trying to love through his father. Kia finds out that the Irish princess Cliona, Cleo, will be at the gala to be shown off for marriage, he decides to go and see if he can cause toy with her. Why, because she is the daughter of his enemy and it is something that could've been fun. The is however one big problem, she kisses him and he is taken back by her beauty and forwardness. She is not afraid of him and he is even more intrigued by her. He decides that he is going to put an offer in for her hand but as time goes by he gets very possessive of her. Can he convince her father, his mortal enemy, and Killan that he is the right suitor for Cleo? Will this cause a war between the two families as well as the other mafia families that have also put in offers?
Kia is the ultimate gentleman and just the way he cares for Cleo and puts his life on the line for her had me swooning for him. The two of them are the perfect couple with his darkness and her feistiness.
Cala always seems to grab your attention right from the start, throw in some twists that put knots in your stomach and pull on your heartstrings. I cannot wait for the next installment in The Syndicates series. I highly recommend you add this book as well as the first two to your TBR list.
Cleo is an Irish princess that is now of age to be shown off for marriage and that is not how she wants to live. She is a strong willed and feisty young lady that knows what she wants but her father has a different path for her. She is thankful that Kilian, her godfather and the leader of the Irish mafia, has control over who she will marry. She wants to marry for love, daddy dearest wants to join two mafia families for strength. When she meets Kia, Haruaki, at the gala, she decides that she is going to push the boundaries of what is expected of her. Will this stunt put her in danger with the Japanese Mafia, her father and Killian? What happens when Kia makes an offer for her hand? What happens when she is required to go on dates with all the men who have put an offer in for her hand? When her life is in danger, who will come to her rescue?
Kia, Haruaki, is the son of the head of the Japanese mafia and is known as the Dark Prince. He is trying to take over for his father however, his father and him do not see eye to eye. Kia wants to run things differently and is trying to love through his father. Kia finds out that the Irish princess Cliona, Cleo, will be at the gala to be shown off for marriage, he decides to go and see if he can cause toy with her. Why, because she is the daughter of his enemy and it is something that could've been fun. The is however one big problem, she kisses him and he is taken back by her beauty and forwardness. She is not afraid of him and he is even more intrigued by her. He decides that he is going to put an offer in for her hand but as time goes by he gets very possessive of her. Can he convince her father, his mortal enemy, and Killan that he is the right suitor for Cleo? Will this cause a war between the two families as well as the other mafia families that have also put in offers?
Kia is the ultimate gentleman and just the way he cares for Cleo and puts his life on the line for her had me swooning for him. The two of them are the perfect couple with his darkness and her feistiness.
Cala always seems to grab your attention right from the start, throw in some twists that put knots in your stomach and pull on your heartstrings. I cannot wait for the next installment in The Syndicates series. I highly recommend you add this book as well as the first two to your TBR list.
January 25, 2026
I wanted to pick up this mafia romance as I do not see east asian heroes featured.
Cliona “Cleo” (a redhead with green eyes) just turned eighteen and her father (part of the Irish mob) tells her that she has to attend a dinner where a man would be chosen for her to marry to strengthen ties between the groups. She does not want to marry and wants to go to college.
Haruaki is part of the Yakuza and is planning to overthrow his father. The Irish and Yakuza have been enemies in Chicago for the longest time and he is hoping he can find more information about why the Irish are trying to get cuts out of their casino. He is intrigued when he meets Cleo outside the bathroom and decides to offer for her.
Her father would say no but her uncle Killian is the leader of the Irish and agrees to consider him as part of the three men shortlisted for her hand. They are all supposed to go on supervised dates with Cleo and the final decision would be her uncle's. This felt like a reality dating show. Kai is even more possessive of Cleo when he goes on their first date at a cafe and she reveals that their kiss at the party was her first and she has never gone on a date before.
The hero becomes possessive of the heroine having her watched and followed by his men and giving her a phone so she can contact them at any time. The last one did not seem too bad as she is very controlled in her house and her father would hit or grab her roughly. Haruaki is obsessed fast with Cleo and feels unhinged though he does show his caring side to her by listening to her and reassuring her. Oddly, the hero becomes a safe space for her. I liked that he is open to teaching her to defend herself and learn how to tend to wounds. Letting her stand on her own two feet and being about to protect herself are swoony things.
The side characters like his friends/men Kado and Kenji protecting her as well as her half brother, Callum was very sweet.
The only thing that was a little too much is
Tropes: Age gap (older hero-younger heroine ten year difference), arranged marriage, he gives her nicknames: princess, darling, possessive hero, "touch her and die", virgin heroine-experienced hero
Representation:
- Hero wears spectacles
- Hero is East Asian (Japanese)
Cliona “Cleo” (a redhead with green eyes) just turned eighteen and her father (part of the Irish mob) tells her that she has to attend a dinner where a man would be chosen for her to marry to strengthen ties between the groups. She does not want to marry and wants to go to college.
Haruaki is part of the Yakuza and is planning to overthrow his father. The Irish and Yakuza have been enemies in Chicago for the longest time and he is hoping he can find more information about why the Irish are trying to get cuts out of their casino. He is intrigued when he meets Cleo outside the bathroom and decides to offer for her.
Her father would say no but her uncle Killian is the leader of the Irish and agrees to consider him as part of the three men shortlisted for her hand. They are all supposed to go on supervised dates with Cleo and the final decision would be her uncle's. This felt like a reality dating show. Kai is even more possessive of Cleo when he goes on their first date at a cafe and she reveals that their kiss at the party was her first and she has never gone on a date before.
The hero becomes possessive of the heroine having her watched and followed by his men and giving her a phone so she can contact them at any time. The last one did not seem too bad as she is very controlled in her house and her father would hit or grab her roughly. Haruaki is obsessed fast with Cleo and feels unhinged though he does show his caring side to her by listening to her and reassuring her. Oddly, the hero becomes a safe space for her. I liked that he is open to teaching her to defend herself and learn how to tend to wounds. Letting her stand on her own two feet and being about to protect herself are swoony things.
The side characters like his friends/men Kado and Kenji protecting her as well as her half brother, Callum was very sweet.
The only thing that was a little too much is
Tropes: Age gap (older hero-younger heroine ten year difference), arranged marriage, he gives her nicknames: princess, darling, possessive hero, "touch her and die", virgin heroine-experienced hero
Representation:
- Hero wears spectacles
- Hero is East Asian (Japanese)
August 21, 2021
The words use and overall review shouldn’t reflect personally on the author or any other of her series and books.
This was just what I needed to get me out of my funk. Before this book I read a book a few weeks ago which I also loved but before those two I read Fragile Longing by Cora Reilly and that was the only book I had like and enjoy reading for months. I been opening and closing books without nothing grasping my attention, but I am glad I read this. Loved it.
Kai was amazing, possessive without being overly possessive, a sexy level of possession. She was a good h did I loooooved her? Nope but I did stand her and that says a lot because I usually don't like 99.9 of female characters from books. The plot was also great, the growth of the characters was on point. I would totally recommend this book.
August 19, 2021
WOW JUST WOW! These two authors really did an amazing job with Haruaki, and I can honestly say that it's my favorite to date now. I'm going to do my best to make this review vague as much as I can because it's so much better to go in blindly. Cleo is the Irish mafia princess of Chicago who knows that she has a target on her back because of that. It's now time for her to be married off which isn't anything a woman these days wants to do but here we are. Kai is our resident dark prince of the Yakuza, who decides he's going to throw his hat into the ring for Cleo since her father is his enemy. That all changes the moment he sees her, because he wants her for real. These two are absolutely perfect for each other with all the sparks flying, and I couldn't get enough of them. Everything about them getting to know each other was delightful in my eyes, and frankly, I'm super happy that I could love a hero out to play with an enemies daughter because usually they have to grow on me if they ever do. The twists coming in hot were EPIC as I didn't see so many things comin, so yeah, this was a fantastic story in The Syndicates series, and I can't wait to see what these two bring us next! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
August 21, 2021
Where do I even start with this book? Cala and Riley did such an amazing thing with this book. Their writing is perfect. These characters are amazing. The plot fantastic.
I cannot say how much I love Kai. If you thought Killian was something wait until you meet Kai. There is something about a monster who falls to his knees for his girl. And Kai is that monster. He wouldn't think twice about slitting your throat but treats Chloe like she's glass. The switch that goes off for him is perfect.
Chloe is the Irish princess and a pawn in her dad's game. Women in the Mafia are used for one purpose to form alliances. They are matched or sold to the person who offers the most and is the most useful to her family. Thank goodness Chloe has Killian.. Yes, this book is another reason to love Killian.
Kai and Chloe are a force. It's clear from the start there is no stopping the from being together. And anyone who tries Kai would burn them to the ground.
Everything about Haruaki was perfect! Cala and Riley are the type of writers who get better and better with every book they write. Kai is the perfect example of this. I feel like each book they write is my new favorite.
Haruaki is a must read Mafia romance!
I cannot say how much I love Kai. If you thought Killian was something wait until you meet Kai. There is something about a monster who falls to his knees for his girl. And Kai is that monster. He wouldn't think twice about slitting your throat but treats Chloe like she's glass. The switch that goes off for him is perfect.
Chloe is the Irish princess and a pawn in her dad's game. Women in the Mafia are used for one purpose to form alliances. They are matched or sold to the person who offers the most and is the most useful to her family. Thank goodness Chloe has Killian.. Yes, this book is another reason to love Killian.
Kai and Chloe are a force. It's clear from the start there is no stopping the from being together. And anyone who tries Kai would burn them to the ground.
Everything about Haruaki was perfect! Cala and Riley are the type of writers who get better and better with every book they write. Kai is the perfect example of this. I feel like each book they write is my new favorite.
Haruaki is a must read Mafia romance!
July 20, 2023
Punctuation EVERYWHERE.
In every corner I looked there was a point or a weird written sentence. It made 0 sence to me and it was one of the least appealing romances I've ever read.
The description of the caracters??? I didn't have a clue about how they looked until like the 3rd chapter. "Oh she looked like a princess..." Okay? How does this princess look, make me a favour because I don't understand why it took so long for me to have an image of the charactersand not even all of them. How did the father look? Or what made the maide so sweet? Like, I would like a tiny description, sir. And what about the non existing friends? Was she a oh so beautiful outcast at school and didn't make any friends because "not worth it... I'm the daughter of a mafia man...". Ugh.
It doesn't matter that it's short, but it matters that I have the horrible and constant feeling that it will never end.
Overall, the thing about this book is that I don't like how it's written at all.
I'm gonna end the review here even tho I have so much more to say because I don't want it to be longer than the book.
But you know, maybe I'm only having a bad day and tomorrow I'll rewrite everything and I'll see it with a new light, never take me too seriously.
In every corner I looked there was a point or a weird written sentence. It made 0 sence to me and it was one of the least appealing romances I've ever read.
The description of the caracters??? I didn't have a clue about how they looked until like the 3rd chapter. "Oh she looked like a princess..." Okay? How does this princess look, make me a favour because I don't understand why it took so long for me to have an image of the charactersand not even all of them. How did the father look? Or what made the maide so sweet? Like, I would like a tiny description, sir. And what about the non existing friends? Was she a oh so beautiful outcast at school and didn't make any friends because "not worth it... I'm the daughter of a mafia man...". Ugh.
It doesn't matter that it's short, but it matters that I have the horrible and constant feeling that it will never end.
Overall, the thing about this book is that I don't like how it's written at all.
I'm gonna end the review here even tho I have so much more to say because I don't want it to be longer than the book.
But you know, maybe I'm only having a bad day and tomorrow I'll rewrite everything and I'll see it with a new light, never take me too seriously.
August 17, 2021
The dark Japanese Yakuza Prince and the Irish Mafia Princess who becomes his greatest addiction, what could go wrong? At 18 Cleo must follow her destiny and enter an arranged marriage, Three suitors are chosen but only one holds her heart, however, not everything is as it seems, and Cleo is a pawn in a much bigger game. A war is coming, family loyalty will be tested and the ones left standing may never be the same again.
Cala and Riley have delivered one hell of a story in the 3rd book in The Syndicates, a must-read series for 2021. These authors writing just keeps getting better and better with each book they release. I was so caught up in Cleo and Kai's story that the added twist woven into the storyline was a welcomed surprise. Haruaki reminds me of a dragon, a beautiful yet intriguing body, captivating eyes, that you are drawn to, a strong hypnotic presence, but deadly when cornered and the heat of the flame that roars from his mouth when caught up in his mates' passionate embrace.
I have loved both the previous books in the series, but Haruaki has a slight edge over the rest.
Cala and Riley have delivered one hell of a story in the 3rd book in The Syndicates, a must-read series for 2021. These authors writing just keeps getting better and better with each book they release. I was so caught up in Cleo and Kai's story that the added twist woven into the storyline was a welcomed surprise. Haruaki reminds me of a dragon, a beautiful yet intriguing body, captivating eyes, that you are drawn to, a strong hypnotic presence, but deadly when cornered and the heat of the flame that roars from his mouth when caught up in his mates' passionate embrace.
I have loved both the previous books in the series, but Haruaki has a slight edge over the rest.
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