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Laurel
He's a beautiful monster. An infamous criminal assassin with such stunning good looks they take my breath away. I should know better than to cross him, but I'm trapped. And my shocking punishment at his hands is rough and shameful.

Trick
She's the perfect bait. The law wants me in jail. My enemies want me dead. And someone's found just the right weapon to use against me...the gorgeous girl I've always wanted to corrupt.

When she betrays me, is it dangerous to take the bait? Of course. But no one crosses me and gets away with it. I'm teaching her a rough lesson in retribution, one that leaves her sore and crying into my sheets.

Do I let her go when the game's over? No, I'm all in. This time, I'll make her give me everything I want.

Publisher's Note: Used is a stand-alone novel which is the third entry in the Rough Retribution series. It includes spankings and sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.

414 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 27, 2021

314 people are currently reading
112 people want to read

About the author

Marlee Wray

23 books316 followers
USA Today and Amazon Bestselling author Marlee Wray writes dirty romances that feature dominant, alpha males and bright, engaging heroines.

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5 stars
255 (57%)
4 stars
122 (27%)
3 stars
45 (10%)
2 stars
15 (3%)
1 star
8 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for JD (on semi-hiatus).
984 reviews224 followers
February 27, 2022
Spoilers Below.

Here is what "dark" and "fantasy" and "erotica" never excuse for me:

1) A man knowingly beating a pregnant woman because "dominance" and "cool" and "sexy" and...whatever. Seriously, why would anyone take such a risk given that miscarriages are never a distant possibility?

2) A man denying a woman bodily autonomy:
“Why do you care so much? Are you going to suggest I get an abortion?” “No, and you better not suggest it either.” “I wasn’t going to.” “Good, so we know where we stand on that."
Marlee Wray is hit-or-miss for me. I have liked the other two books in this series, but any author who extols anti-choice in their books immediately goes on my never-again list. I understand that authors don't necessarily write what they personally believe, but if they're okay writing something so extraordinarily misogynist at a time when a woman's right to control her own body is under attack in dozens of states and Roe vs. Wade stands a very real chance of being overturned, then I'm done. I have no patience right now for any narrative that equates Alpha male dominance with dictating what a woman can and cannot do with her own body. It isn't "hot;" it isn't "sexy;" it's offensive.

1 star. YMMV.

ETA: It always amuses me when readers devote space in their reviews to defending the book from my own -- particularly when they use faulty logic to do so. So, let me say this: if the other reviews elicit your interest in this book, go for it. But, three things are not up for debate: A) BDSM doesn't exist without consent; since Laurelyn doesn't give it at first, this isn't BDSM. You don't get to just apply terms that are clearly defined any way you want to; B) He beats her. He doesn't have her consent; therefore, it's a beating (look up the legal definition). I'll also add that he himself says this about what he did to her: "Purplish red bruises crest over the highest peaks of her globes. She won’t sit for days, and when she tries to, or even walks..." That surely says "beating" to me! and C) Approximately 15-20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage -- those are the odds Trick is willing to risk. Side Note: He doesn't mention religion as the reason for invoking "her body, his choice." If he is a practicing Catholic, curious what he says during confession, given all that he's done? Or maybe he's only a Catholic when it comes to legislating women's bodies?

I doubt what I say above will bother most people; and that's fine. It did bother me.
96 reviews
August 5, 2021
Unnecessary voyeur scene/past revealed with other crue girl

Seriously did not need a scene where Trick makes Laurel watch C bang Zoes (a crue couple) a@@, spread out dripping and all. Then the next day he tells Laurel to talk to Zoe about what sex life in the crue means? So Zoe being the immature idiot that she is tells Laurel that trick basically had a threesome with Zoe and Anvil for her punishment and she had tons orgasms from the encounter. Laurel fainted badly but she is forced to accept it all and poor Zoe is comforted????? Now the reasoning that trick had for showing and telling laurel this crap with Zoe was so Laurel would know what he's really about so to see if she could accept him. OK I'm gonna call a plot hole right there. The entire book it's brought up that Laurel knew trick was into BDSM and that he had used prostitutes in the past and sex for him was deviant and casual. She knew all about him and accepted him. It was totally unnecessary for Laurel to know that Zoe (who is close to them) was a part of that past. And especially to make her watch a sex scene including Zoe??. What did that accomplish? So much ick.......Unless trick plans on using Zoe as a hole again or having Laura participate in threesomes then that whole bunch of dialogue was just filler that takes the book down down down...... Anvil and Rachel who are the third couple in crue don't act like that sexually (voyeur and others involved) !!!! So it isn't a "crue thing" it's a choice for each couple and trick seems to force Laurel to accept everything with no compromise???? No choice??? It took the book from a good 4.5 or more down to a solid two. Trick came off as an unrepentant ho who will cheat and "married sex" won't be enough for him even when Laurel submits to his bdsm games..... it still isn't enough.... trick is actually abusive. Several scenes she cries breaking down from pain, she isn't given option of safe words, he tells her she is NEVER allowed to say no to sex?????? This is past the point of bdsm or arousal... his first punishment leaves her severe bruising and pain without arousal... her first anal he pushes her so far she cries afterwards and it's painful as he continues well past her point. She's left hurt and yet it's once again smoothed over!!!! Laurel accepts it all because she is so grateful someone that looks like him allows her to be with him.....Laurel....... you should have run from the way this author wrote trick. I love dark, this isn't dark, it's sad.....Instead of a submissive you just became a doormat for abuse. If this ever gets rewrite rethink this plot point!!!!!!
Profile Image for Novelist400.
150 reviews1 follower
October 12, 2022
Fake reviews.

No clue why this book has so many high reviews. It’s a ridiculous OTT wanna be gangsta novel. There is no ZERO ZILCH NADA chemistry between our main players. He’s an absolute dick - and it’s his way or the highway. He constantly manipulated the FMC and essentially stated that sex everyday is nonnegotiable or she can leave. What she says wants thinks and feels doesn’t matter. She’s not even allowed to ask HIM how HE feels after he was shot!

I’ve read books that weren’t always supportive of womens rights but this takes the fucking cake and the author ate every fucking crumb! So disappointed and disgusted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Dennis.
952 reviews27 followers
June 29, 2021
Terrific Mafia Book

Oh yeah I had been looking forward to reading Trick's story for a while since I had already read the first two books in the C Crue series and oh I have to say that it was worth the wait, I really loved this book and I really loved the first two. I am thinking I need to read the first two books again lol.
37 reviews2 followers
June 3, 2021
I read all three books in this series and this is my favorite. Marlee Wray keeps getting better and better. Trick is my favorite book boyfriend of all three books.

Trick is the male lead character of this book and like the other two leaders of the "C Crue", he enjoys BDSM. So if you don't like serious Alpha males or a book with elements of BDSM, you should probably not read this book.

Trick is delicious - brilliant, deadly, dominant and beautiful. He has always had a soft spot for Laurel - who he knew in high school - but she comes back into his life under suspicious circumstances. At first, Laurel doesn't want to be forthcoming about the reasons behind her strange behavior. But Trick knows how to get the answers he needs. Though these two start out at odds, they are meant to be together and eventually find their way. Despite his extremely dominant nature, Trick is always protective of Laurel and I truly felt his concern and love for her. Trick is a wonderful character and I really liked him even if (and maybe because) he is a bit of throwback to a "medieval war lord" as Laurel described him at one point.

I strongly recommend this book to people who love dark mafia romances. I look forward to Marlee Wray's next book.
Profile Image for Yoneidis.
2,149 reviews12 followers
October 17, 2021
4.5⭐️
Laurelyn and Trick’s story begins in high school. They date until Laurelyn break up with him and they go their separate ways.
Trick has since been investigating more about his kinky side.
But when he sees Laurelyn again years later at a poker game, he knows something is up bc she has always been a good girl and that wasn’t her scene.
He ends up discovering that she helps the FBI and proceeds to punish her as she deserves. (Lots of spanking sessions).
Laurelyn is the only girl Trick has ever loved and he is not going to let her escape, but he is going to make it clear to her who she belongs to.
Super fun, entertaining and 🔥🔥🔥.
8 reviews
June 26, 2021
So many things not answered in this book...

I have been waiting for this book for sometime, it feels incomplete. I am presuming that another book will be coming out or else this work is just really sloppy? So many unanswered questions. I love C Crue, so I hope the author does some justice to the work.
9 reviews
January 17, 2022
Pretty good book. Wish there was more feminism. The second book was my favorite and the main female protagonist from the first book is perhaps the most annoying character I’ve ever read. I honestly wish Connor would just leave her and find a new girl.
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews71 followers
June 7, 2021
💣💣ONE NAILBITING THRILL RIDE💣💣
Jumping jupiter jasper! Marlee throws out one action packed, hard hitting, heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, nerve-racking, block busting, tilt-our-world piece of decadent wonder with this enticingly bewitching, skillfully compelling, sinfully evocative and deliciously delightful wild ride, skyrocketing this bad boy to staggering heights. Duplicity and sinister deeds run amuck, brimming with riveting drama, gripping intrigue, underlying threats, brutal tactics, callous betrayal, spine tingling danger, electrifying suspense and edgy situations ensue in epic proportions, breaking out the heavy artillery, locked and loaded, putting our characters through their paces, fusing this hot little gem together flawlessly. The sparking attraction and high octane chemistry collides with such intensity and ardor, exploding with boundless emotions and infinite affections, pulling our characters deeper, uniting them together beautifully. The characters dialogue, interactions and electrifying atmosphere, along with tremendous qualities and traits adding depth and diversity, blending into charismatic personalities. The scenes are so abundantly descriptive with graphic details it paints an elaborate backdrop so rich and lively it feels as though your part of the story instead of the sidelines feeling everything the characters feel. Amazing job Marlee, thanks for sharing this delightful treat with us.
Profile Image for J M L.
400 reviews4 followers
August 1, 2022
Awesome Finale

I loved this series and Trick was my favorite character throughout so I'm happy his story lived up to the high expectations I had set for it. The story actually ended up being a little darker than I had anticipated, but in a good way. I also appreciated that Laurelyn wasn't a push over and wavered on their relationship at times. It showed she had strength and some independence. Anything less wouldnt have made sense for Trick's partner. There were a few editing errors but nothing that messed up the flow of the story so it wasn't a big deal.
I discovered Marlee Wray when I read Indecent Demands (Dark Knights Book 1) which was a little backwards since the characters from this series made appearances in that book. Now that I've read this series I think I will re-read Indecent Demands again and see if I missed anything, especially since it was such a good story and deserves a re-read.
I'm just not quite ready to say good bye to these awesome characters just yet, and I sadly have a long wait time until the next book in the Dark Knights series is released.
496 reviews8 followers
June 14, 2021
*3.7 stars* I didn't want this series to end

I feel like this book had almost no suspense action in it. It was more of a book that wrapped up the series and just so happen to be from Tricks pov. Laurel was an ok h. She did seem veey insecure at one point which i hated. Also the sexy scenes were rushed again. The sexy scenes were hot if the had more details and were longer. I really liked this book but on the other hand in just ugh about it. I think Trick really made this book. It was him who kept my attention. He's the reason I kept reading because I wanted to see what he would do next. Overall I'm torn lol. It was a really good book I just wish the sexy scenes were like the first book. Even Anvil's book had rushed sex scenes. It is a good series that I enjoyed. Most of the negative all evolve around the sex scenes getting less detailed.
Profile Image for Maureen.
1,456 reviews28 followers
June 4, 2021
Marlee once more delivers a great story, that will totally keep you engaged. Danger, suspense and Mafia play come into this really hot story. I really liked Trick, he is so smart and even though he has killed alot of people, theres only one person for him. Someone from his past, she has come back, walzing into his life. Sent there by a man from the FBI Laurel gets a shock to see Trick, only she knew him by the name of Scott, however shes up to her neck in trouble.
What happens next and throughout the book is nothing but exciting and these two absolutely rock this book with their chemistry.

A must read, i am just loving these books by Marlee, she certainly knows how to write a story that is exciting..
Profile Image for ltfrom bc.
546 reviews5 followers
June 6, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, even though it was the 3rd in the series. I did not realize that this was part of a series. Characters from the first two books are a big part of the story. I wish I had known this before starting the book as I would have read them first. Having said that, Laurel and Trick’s story is a very good one. I loved their connection and story-line. It was a hot and steamy read with some added suspense. I loved it. A great read on its own, but I am sure it would be even better if you had the backstory from the first two books in the series. All in all, it was well worth the time it took to read it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
32 reviews
April 5, 2022
this book is the best of the trilogy. I am so.enamored with this book. I am rereading it for the fifth time. The character development is great sex scenes are hot. I would love to get dominated by scott....I ithink.. Point is this book makes it clear why a normal, independent woman would join her life with his. She never knew she was a submissive or maybe she is not submissive with the only man who brings out her submissive self. He is a man who knows what he wants and how to get it. I can see myself in her. She is not always ok with his dominance but trusting him to know how to handle things because he always gots my back. if Idk if they make guys like this IRL but that is why read to escape for few hours. I keep coming back to this book, it great.
47 reviews14 followers
June 9, 2021
Fast paced and soooo Sexy

If you are looking to dip your toe into BDSM, this is the book for you. I loved the struggle that Laurelyn went through to accept Trick's lifestyle. She did not just get betrayed by her body and poor she was suddenly super submissive. She weighed all aspects of those decisions before making choices. Also, Trick does not floss over what he wants from her as demanding as he is, he strategically brings her into his life. If you are looking for an alpha male look no more. Trick has got you covered and that man is hawt with a dirty mouth that should be outlawed!
Profile Image for Karon Price.
1,253 reviews34 followers
June 7, 2021
I'm not sure why, but it took me a while to get into this book. I frankly forgot the first two in the series and did go back and refresh my memory. When I returned to the story it was more interesting, so I suggest reading the first two books for maximum enjoyment. Laurelyn was in some ways pretty naive and Trick (Scott) was a bit of an a$$hole, but they both eventually came together and got their HEA. I wouldn't find a 4th book where we see where these couples are in a few years.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
8,900 reviews63 followers
June 2, 2021
Laurel an Trick sizzle with chemestry! Trick is the most dominate of the trio of friends from the series, and we see just how far he goes when Laurel turns up something doest so right with Trick and he's determined to get to the bottom of it. Woth twists and turns spanking and more! Well written with engaging characters and storyline

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,413 reviews9 followers
June 7, 2021
Laurel never realized she was being used to hurt Trick. She would never hurt her first crush. He doesnt know that though. Now the dominant has to keep her until she tells him the truth. A little bondage, some paddling and he'll have her where he wants her soon enough. Since he's had a thing for her since school, maybe he'll just keep her forever. Hot, hot read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
325 reviews4 followers
June 1, 2021
This book is the best in this series and that is really a surprise. Truck was the easygoing, charming and funny one between the three friends. He turns out to be the most intense and dominant among them. Well written and the love scenes couldn't be better. Recommended!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,847 reviews14 followers
June 3, 2021
Trick and the C Crue are definite men's men. They are dominant and forceful but soften with the right woman. Once you get past the, I am man, hear me roar, you appreciate the strong, caring men they are. I cannot wait to hear the stories behind the other men.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Hazel.
1,179 reviews1 follower
June 6, 2021
I just love Trick
by HazelM

I totally read this in one day.
Trick and the C Crue sound like ideal men. I love the way he behaves with Laurel and am sure he is like fine wine... he'll age beautifully.
I'd also love to read the storys of C and 'Vil.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,061 reviews6 followers
June 6, 2021
This is one of the best books I have read recently. The story flowed well, it was always entertaining and engaging, and the characters were fantastic. An all around magnificent story I got so wrapped up and entwined in. I wished it never had ended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
174 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2023
Rough road

This close to the series is an unusual love story. I love the dynamics of this poly amorous group. They are vibrant spectacular characters. I highly encourage reading this unique look into the lives of this chosen family. They are related by choice not blood. Still not for the faint of heart but so ,so entertaining. Take a walk on the wild side read and enjoy...
Profile Image for Misty Schott.
4,225 reviews35 followers
September 19, 2024
They finally figure it out!

Scott 'Trick' Patrick is part of C Crue and they have lots of enemies looking to take them down. When his ex-girlfriend from high school, Laurelyn shows up at a poker game and tries to drug him to get information he shows her what punishment he's willing to dole out. This is a great read and these two were meant to be!
Profile Image for Lisa A.
1,531 reviews13 followers
June 1, 2021
A dark mafia romance…
The last person Trick expected to walk into a room filled with his enemies was Laurel. There was definitely something suspicious about her presence and he was determined to get the truth…
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
1,743 reviews12 followers
June 2, 2021
My first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. I loved Laurel and Tick and there were so many twists and turns to the plot. A cracking read!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,030 reviews9 followers
June 6, 2021
A fantastic, riveting read. Deliciously dark and dangerous. Great characters, well written storyline. Would recommend, will read more from this author

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Pauline.
6 reviews
June 12, 2021
End of a trilogy

I had more hope for this story. Unfortunately, like most final books- it felt rushed. Even with that, some story lines were left open. Saddens you me as I enjoy the way the author speaks and most of the book.
151 reviews1 follower
December 5, 2025
the best out the series!!

Trick!!!!! This one is the best out of the series!! I went back and forth about the FMC. But she won me over. She also was the best fmc out this series as well. Good story. The main character were really meant for each other!!!
Profile Image for Tammy.
9,119 reviews49 followers
June 10, 2021
This is the 3rd book in the series but it can be read as a standalone. The story is fast-paced with intense chemistry and lots of drama and sizzling scenes. I really liked it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews

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