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Dinero de Sangre #1
Blood Money
In this twisted dark cartel romance, revenge and hate collide with the past...
Ten years after a devastating betrayal, revenge has come back to bite Ada Pavalos.
Literally.
Once her family’s trusted bodyguard, Domino Valenciaga is out for blood.
Or her heart.
Whichever goal takes more violence to achieve...
Ten years after a devastating betrayal, revenge has come back to bite Ada Pavalos.
Literally.
Once her family’s trusted bodyguard, Domino Valenciaga is out for blood.
Or her heart.
Whichever goal takes more violence to achieve...
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2021
138 people are currently reading
914 people want to read
About the author
Lana Sky
61 books1,326 followersI am a quirky writer from the US who dabbles in dark, paranormal and contemporary romance. My stories aren't always typical, but contain a little something for everyone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
July 4, 2021
3.75-4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
How can I block my friends who gave this book 1 star from seeing this review? What must they think of me for liking things they allrightfully disliked.
‼️Minor Spoilers Ahead‼️
Domino Valenciaga (H) worked for 5 years as a bodyguard for Roy Pavalos, bidding his time to extract revenge from the man who destroyed his family. After 5 years of plotting and planning and inexorably insinuating himself into Roy’s life, Domino gets his revenge by killing Roy and his wife and kidnapping Ada-Maria, Roy’s daughter, as a payback for her father’s sin.
Can’t say this story is unlike anything I’ve read before because I have, but still the angst between the characters had my BLOOD SIZZLING. SO HOT. 🥵
Things Domino did that a normal person would find abhorrent but I found inexplicably hot.🥵
❤️🔥Got Ada-Maria hooked on cocaine
❤️🔥Shoved her into scalding bathwater
❤️🔥Whipped her
❤️🔥Acted indifferent to her charms
❤️🔥Being a sadistic bastard, he got off on her pain.
❤️🔥Saved her from jumping off the balcony
Domino’s character felt a bit shallow to me probably because we didn’t get his POV. I felt like he was just there to hate fuck Ada and to deliver her punishments, and also occasionally have lunch or dinner with her. We got almost no insight into his true character. Apart from the fact that he was really possessive when it came to Ada. He cut off the fingers of the man who dared to touch her.
Um, wasn’t he supposed to hate her? What’s with the unnecessary show of possessiveness? I find it so annoying when the H claims the h as his. He could’ve just cut off his fingers without saying that she belonged to him. After all, actions speak louder than words. Nothing turns me off more than the H growling ‘she is mine’ specially when he barely knows her, and supposedly hates her?
Apart from this one short coming Domino was hot. And boy, was he the hottest in bed. 🥵
The h was an idiot. Literally an idiot. And a doormat. But still I liked her. Please ignore I said that because you’d wonder how I could give this book a high rating when in the past I’ve not been so kind to heroines who displayed such deplorable behavior. But sometimes you just can’t explain certain things. I liked this book. Alright. I liked Ada. Bitch was an idiot but cute.
Ada-Maria’s sole value was her sex appeal. Her ability to lure and snare men, all at her father’s say-so.
I found it a bit unfair when Domino slut-shamed her. She was a marionette of her father. Putty in his hands.
It greatly pleasured me when Domino literally cooked his father. On a spit. And to think Ada called her father a cow or a pig. And saying it smelled like barbecue. Hilarious. 👁👄👁
I could have hugged Domino for pulling that move. Though it was a bit gag worthy. But so monstrously cool.
Things Ada did that made me shake my head in disappointment (and sometimes in awe).
💔Sneaked behind his back to sleep in his bed in his shirt after he almost killed her by dragging her behind his car by the chain attached to the collar on her throat
💔Got aroused when he touched her AFTER he shoved her into steaming hot water
💔Had a degrading kink
💔Seduced Domino into sleeping with her and then injected him with some kind of drug and then made a run for her freedom
This book gave me major Requiem of the Soul vibes. Hopefully Blood Ties won’t disappoint like Reparation of Sin did.
How can I block my friends who gave this book 1 star from seeing this review? What must they think of me for liking things they all
‼️Minor Spoilers Ahead‼️
Domino Valenciaga (H) worked for 5 years as a bodyguard for Roy Pavalos, bidding his time to extract revenge from the man who destroyed his family. After 5 years of plotting and planning and inexorably insinuating himself into Roy’s life, Domino gets his revenge by killing Roy and his wife and kidnapping Ada-Maria, Roy’s daughter, as a payback for her father’s sin.
Can’t say this story is unlike anything I’ve read before because I have, but still the angst between the characters had my BLOOD SIZZLING. SO HOT. 🥵
“Regardless, he looks down, his eyes sharp and mistrusting. He adjusts his grip, loosening his bear hug to grip me by both forearms, holding me captive inches from his chest. When he lunges, I go still, expecting another slap.
Not the feel of his mouth over mine.
He’s brutal, gnashing with his teeth until I part my aching lips and let him in. He grunts, gripping me tighter, pressing me against the planes of his chest.”
Things Domino did that a normal person would find abhorrent but I found inexplicably hot.🥵
❤️🔥Got Ada-Maria hooked on cocaine
❤️🔥Shoved her into scalding bathwater
❤️🔥Whipped her
❤️🔥Acted indifferent to her charms
❤️🔥Being a sadistic bastard, he got off on her pain.
“So fucking beautiful.”
Beautiful. Only a monster would find beauty in blood and pain. Whatever drug he gave me has long since worn off. I can feel every stinging, burning inch, and it hurts. But when I delve into that pain, my wounds don’t seem to be the source of it. Just a selfish, vain realization.
He finds me beautiful only like this, bloodied and broken.”
❤️🔥Saved her from jumping off the balcony
“I shove him away and climb from the tub, tripping over my own feet. My eyes are on the balcony, and I lunge for it, leaning over the railing. I eye the darkened landscape below. I’m not afraid. I don’t feel anything, and in this moment…
I know for sure I could jump.
Fall.
“Are you fucking crazy?” A masculine arm comes around my waist, wrenching me back.”
Domino’s character felt a bit shallow to me probably because we didn’t get his POV. I felt like he was just there to hate fuck Ada and to deliver her punishments, and also occasionally have lunch or dinner with her. We got almost no insight into his true character. Apart from the fact that he was really possessive when it came to Ada. He cut off the fingers of the man who dared to touch her.
“Two fingers for the two you used to soil what is mine,” Domino says. “Now get the fuck out. You—” his shift in tone makes me suspect he’s speaking to the other man beyond my view. “Take his share and get him out of here. Now.”
“Yes, sir.”
Um, wasn’t he supposed to hate her? What’s with the unnecessary show of possessiveness? I find it so annoying when the H claims the h as his. He could’ve just cut off his fingers without saying that she belonged to him. After all, actions speak louder than words. Nothing turns me off more than the H growling ‘she is mine’ specially when he barely knows her, and supposedly hates her?
Apart from this one short coming Domino was hot. And boy, was he the hottest in bed. 🥵
“You’d let me take you here if I wanted?” he asks, his voice so thick I can barely make out the individual words. He thrusts in a little harder, venturing a fraction deeper, and my cry is too sharp to smother. “Hell yes, you would.”
“And that pleases him. Excites him.
He shoves me onto my hands, gripping my ass, and my teeth clatter as I try not to resist, bracing myself for the pain.
He enters my pussy instead, taking effort to go deep and hard.”
The h was an idiot. Literally an idiot. And a doormat. But still I liked her. Please ignore I said that because you’d wonder how I could give this book a high rating when in the past I’ve not been so kind to heroines who displayed such deplorable behavior. But sometimes you just can’t explain certain things. I liked this book. Alright. I liked Ada. Bitch was an idiot but cute.
Ada-Maria’s sole value was her sex appeal. Her ability to lure and snare men, all at her father’s say-so.
“I’ve spent years training myself not to flinch when men of all shapes and sizes undress my body with disgusting, searching glances. After all, it was their privilege to stare.”
I found it a bit unfair when Domino slut-shamed her. She was a marionette of her father. Putty in his hands.
“I hiss through my teeth at the loss. My legs are quivering, my heartbeat unsteady. I can’t seem to catch enough air as he raises his palm to his mouth and spits. When he moves that same hand to his cock, I know that he doesn’t need the lubrication. He’s doing it to prove a point—this is what he thinks of me. A whore he can take selfishly without preparation. A slut.”
It greatly pleasured me when Domino literally cooked his father. On a spit. And to think Ada called her father a cow or a pig. And saying it smelled like barbecue. Hilarious. 👁👄👁
“The scent of barbecue grows stronger. Potent. Pork, I think…
Though it’s been so damn long since I’ve imbibed anything more than lettuce and boiled eggs. And crusty restaurant bread.”
“As they water, I spot the source of the smell—the meat is cooking here on a spit set above the flames. It’s large. A cow? Or maybe a pig, set far enough back from the flames themselves that the meat blisters and crackles from the heat, but isn’t burned. But wait…”
I could have hugged Domino for pulling that move. Though it was a bit gag worthy. But so monstrously cool.
Things Ada did that made me shake my head in disappointment (and sometimes in awe).
💔Sneaked behind his back to sleep in his bed in his shirt after he almost killed her by dragging her behind his car by the chain attached to the collar on her throat
💔Got aroused when he touched her AFTER he shoved her into steaming hot water
“Jesus Christ, Ada-Maria.” The disgust in his voice hits me like a slap.
I wrench my eyes open as shame floods my cheeks.
“I knew you were a whore, but damn.” He pushes past me, dropping the towel on the floor. Angry, fierce strides carrying him into the hall before the full weight of my embarrassment has a chance to sink in.”
💔Had a degrading kink
“I never complained to Papa about the way he spoke to me, either. You spoiled little bitch. I used to replay those words to myself—usually when I had two fingers inside of me and needed one last hit to go over the edge. I’d think of him snarling those hateful words, and I’d orgasm, gasping his name softly enough that no one ever knew.”
💔Seduced Domino into sleeping with her and then injected him with some kind of drug and then made a run for her freedom
“Cautiously, I reach for his thigh, touching him as lightly as I can. Hard bone flexes beneath my fingertips. His knee? I go higher, until I find the thicker, sturdier feel of solid muscle.
Then I aim and stab, shoving the plunger down.
“What the fuck?” He comes alive swinging, easily snagging my hair in the dark—but not the chain.”
This book gave me major Requiem of the Soul vibes. Hopefully Blood Ties won’t disappoint like Reparation of Sin did.
Read
June 30, 2021DNF at 37%
I can't do it. I'm tapping out.
I can't do it. I'm tapping out.
May 17, 2022
Lana Sky, you are filthy, twisted, and an author after my own heart!
How. HOW. I am impressed by the perversity. There were multiple moments throughout the book where I was like, well that's the first time that I'm seeing this in a dark romance. Other reviews list out the depravity of the hero - go read them to get the low-down!! - which of course piques my interest, moving Blood Money to the top of my TBR...
You got your Lana Sky tropes. Underworld of power setting (this time, cartel rather than mafia, although some mafia ties to rich girl's father). Rich girl with body disorder used as a political pawn by her family. Hero out for revenge. Hero incredibly cruel to her but later revealed some of his actions did preserve her life. Rich girl seems weak but later morphs into a femme fatale, although still broken/in a precarious position i.e. hero may kill her at any time (highly reminiscent to War of Roses' heroine character arc but I'm going to see how the second and third book turns out!).* Physical violence and romanticization of the broken heroine.**
*Femme fatale more towards the later end where she is purposely playing mind games with him for her survival and I love it lol. We never have "bitch" characters unless they are OW or heroine has to fall from her popularity perch.
**Right now, nothing about killing the heroine's identity so she can be her own person that was a prevalent theme in War of Roses. Hero is just a brutal SOB who punishes for minor disobediences, strong suggestion that hero and heroine share BDSM kink.
I saw a tweet the other day that said once you read a dark romance, you can't go back. And Lana Sky is the best of the best. Her writing is only improving, as I see that Blood Money is one of her more recent dark romance works. She's able to write the most WTF but with palpable atmosphere, the slow burn sizzle was great here. I would say about the 45-50% is when the H+h turn up the heat and the angst. Before, it was a lot of mystery, panic, and scary things happening.
How. HOW. I am impressed by the perversity. There were multiple moments throughout the book where I was like, well that's the first time that I'm seeing this in a dark romance. Other reviews list out the depravity of the hero - go read them to get the low-down!! - which of course piques my interest, moving Blood Money to the top of my TBR...
You got your Lana Sky tropes. Underworld of power setting (this time, cartel rather than mafia, although some mafia ties to rich girl's father). Rich girl with body disorder used as a political pawn by her family. Hero out for revenge. Hero incredibly cruel to her but later revealed some of his actions did preserve her life. Rich girl seems weak but later morphs into a femme fatale, although still broken/in a precarious position i.e. hero may kill her at any time (highly reminiscent to War of Roses' heroine character arc but I'm going to see how the second and third book turns out!).* Physical violence and romanticization of the broken heroine.**
*Femme fatale more towards the later end where she is purposely playing mind games with him for her survival and I love it lol. We never have "bitch" characters unless they are OW or heroine has to fall from her popularity perch.
**Right now, nothing about killing the heroine's identity so she can be her own person that was a prevalent theme in War of Roses. Hero is just a brutal SOB who punishes for minor disobediences, strong suggestion that hero and heroine share BDSM kink.
I saw a tweet the other day that said once you read a dark romance, you can't go back. And Lana Sky is the best of the best. Her writing is only improving, as I see that Blood Money is one of her more recent dark romance works. She's able to write the most WTF but with palpable atmosphere, the slow burn sizzle was great here. I would say about the 45-50% is when the H+h turn up the heat and the angst. Before, it was a lot of mystery, panic, and scary things happening.
November 5, 2021
Dios Mio
What was this ?
The amout of times Domino calls her a dumb whore....
Thesad funny thing is....I can't disagree.
The insults were fucking hilarious tho....Domino ain't fucking around.
“You sneer down your nose at me, Ada, but I know who you are. A nasty, backstabbing little trollop-whore.”
“The dumb whore with a heart of gold—no one fits that fucking cliché. No one...”
“You’re so used to seducing men; I’m surprised your cunt doesn’t have a credit card swipe."
He is a brutal motherfucker. Relentless and cruel. I appreciate it in a sick twisted way.
The main problem was I felt ZERO connection between them. No heat. No fire. Nada.
What was this ?
The amout of times Domino calls her a dumb whore....
The
The insults were fucking hilarious tho....Domino ain't fucking around.
“You sneer down your nose at me, Ada, but I know who you are. A nasty, backstabbing little trollop-whore.”
“The dumb whore with a heart of gold—no one fits that fucking cliché. No one...”
“You’re so used to seducing men; I’m surprised your cunt doesn’t have a credit card swipe."
He is a brutal motherfucker. Relentless and cruel. I appreciate it in a sick twisted way.
The main problem was I felt ZERO connection between them. No heat. No fire. Nada.
momma-raised-a-quitter
April 23, 2022DNF
I love villains but not when they are emotionally stunted and do shit like chain the heroine to a car and drag her across the road
I love villains but not when they are emotionally stunted and do shit like chain the heroine to a car and drag her across the road
July 5, 2021
The storyline is very formulaic. From the start, both H Domino and h Ada are unlikeable characters. H is out for revenge on the Pavalos family. Heroine Ada bears the brunt as Domino sees her as the slutty, spoilt daughter of a brutal man who wronged him and others! The author does a good job in slowly peeling off the layers and in revealing how H wasn't the only wounded one! However, H clearly has the upper hand whereas Ada's situation can basically be described as being pushed out of one frying pan into the next one! I found myself sympathising with Ada.
An engaging afternoon read until ........ 'to be continued' ..... slapped me in the face 🤦♀️ I hate cliff hangers (yes I did know before hand but still ..... 😡)!!
An engaging afternoon read until ........ 'to be continued' ..... slapped me in the face 🤦♀️ I hate cliff hangers (yes I did know before hand but still ..... 😡)!!
June 26, 2021
Blood Money is a dark story shrouded in mystery and revenge. Ada Maria is a pawn in her father's controlling world, he dictates how she behaves, what she wears, and who she must be in a relationship with. Her life is not her own.
Domingo is the righthand man of Don Roy, another tool in his belt to control and manipulate those around him.
Lana Sky uses eloquent words to paint her story and her books are full of darkness and despair, especially in the minds and hearts of her characters.
I loved reading this story!
Domingo is the righthand man of Don Roy, another tool in his belt to control and manipulate those around him.
Lana Sky uses eloquent words to paint her story and her books are full of darkness and despair, especially in the minds and hearts of her characters.
I loved reading this story!
June 25, 2021
“God only knows what he wants with me, and, for the first time, I toy with the more dangerous possibilities I haven’t let myself consider before.
Rape.
Torture.
Murder.”
Ada-Maria Pavalos finds herself kidnapped by her father’s ex right hand man, Domino.
Betrayal at its finest. But who really betrayed who?
This book. Holy crap.
We have Ada who is not without her flaws, has been used over and over again by friends and family, and has quite the personality to show for it.
Domino. The one soldier that would never give Ada a second glance or fall into her scheming ways to seduce men and toy with them.
“..he embodies my prior religious comparison to a fallen angel. This man is Lucifer himself, here to condemn me to hell.“
This is a dark book. I wouldn’t call it a romance. Although it could end up as one in later books.
Domino is out for revenge and it is a slow torture to figure out what exactly he wants from Ada and why he is doing the things that he’s doing to her. Because he doesn’t do very nice things….
The story has an incredible descriptive way of capturing these characters angst, inner turmoil, heartbreak, anger, and every emotion in between. Lana Sky is one of those authors that knows how to write with passion and full description and really makes you see the full picture of what’s going on. Because these are very complex characters. Neither one is innocent from the things they have done in their past and present.
Ada’s life has been completely turned upside down. She doesn’t know where she is, she’s in someone’s home that she thought she knew but Domino is a completely different person than whom she thought he was and he’s way more powerful than she ever imagined. He also has plans for her that leaves her life in the balance. Which does leave this book off on a pretty intense cliffhanger. If you do not like cliffhangers I suggest you wait for the next book or wait until the series is complete. What I will say is, I am not new to Lana Sky. I have always highly recommended every book I have read of hers. This one is no exception. If you like books dark and gritty then I absolutely recommend starting the series!
*This book does have a disclaimer in the beginning of the book that does warn you that there are talks of sexual abuse, mentions of child abuse, mentions of eating disorders, graphic depiction of violence, and mentions of self harm.
Rape.
Torture.
Murder.”
Ada-Maria Pavalos finds herself kidnapped by her father’s ex right hand man, Domino.
Betrayal at its finest. But who really betrayed who?
This book. Holy crap.
We have Ada who is not without her flaws, has been used over and over again by friends and family, and has quite the personality to show for it.
Domino. The one soldier that would never give Ada a second glance or fall into her scheming ways to seduce men and toy with them.
“..he embodies my prior religious comparison to a fallen angel. This man is Lucifer himself, here to condemn me to hell.“
This is a dark book. I wouldn’t call it a romance. Although it could end up as one in later books.
Domino is out for revenge and it is a slow torture to figure out what exactly he wants from Ada and why he is doing the things that he’s doing to her. Because he doesn’t do very nice things….
The story has an incredible descriptive way of capturing these characters angst, inner turmoil, heartbreak, anger, and every emotion in between. Lana Sky is one of those authors that knows how to write with passion and full description and really makes you see the full picture of what’s going on. Because these are very complex characters. Neither one is innocent from the things they have done in their past and present.
Ada’s life has been completely turned upside down. She doesn’t know where she is, she’s in someone’s home that she thought she knew but Domino is a completely different person than whom she thought he was and he’s way more powerful than she ever imagined. He also has plans for her that leaves her life in the balance. Which does leave this book off on a pretty intense cliffhanger. If you do not like cliffhangers I suggest you wait for the next book or wait until the series is complete. What I will say is, I am not new to Lana Sky. I have always highly recommended every book I have read of hers. This one is no exception. If you like books dark and gritty then I absolutely recommend starting the series!
*This book does have a disclaimer in the beginning of the book that does warn you that there are talks of sexual abuse, mentions of child abuse, mentions of eating disorders, graphic depiction of violence, and mentions of self harm.
June 25, 2021
Blood Money is the first book in the Dinero de Sangre series and all I can say is FUCK.What in the BLOODY HELL did I just read? I have read my fair share of dark romance but Blood Money was intense, twisted and disturbing. If you're looking for flowers, sunshine and hearts shooting out your eyeballs...this isn't the type of book. It is gritty, dangerous, seductive, and fucking savage! Lana Sky can do no wrong, her writing is my crutch and it grips me like a God Damn vice.
If there is one thing to be said, you do not mess with the Pavalos. But one devastating betrayal leads to catastrophic events and Domino Ada’s father’s right hand is out for blood. Done playing the playing the pawn, it’s his turn to be king. Check and mate. He is ten steps ahead of everyone and fueled on rage and vengeance. But the question is, what is his motive? And what does Ada have to do with any of this? From the very beginning I loved Domino’s mysterious character. Him and his twisted morals and ethics; keeping his promises and doesn’t make empty threats. For a man who claims to have no soul, the chemistry between Ada and him was undeniable.
Blood Money is a superb depiction of the gritty reality of drug cartels, and a story that will force you to leave your own morals and beliefs at the front door, or swim in darkness where its every man for himself. I usually take my time with Lana’s books but after reading the synopsis of Bloody Money I was hooked. I stayed up till the brink of dawn to finish this book and I have no regrets. Cannot wait to see what happens in the next book.
If there is one thing to be said, you do not mess with the Pavalos. But one devastating betrayal leads to catastrophic events and Domino Ada’s father’s right hand is out for blood. Done playing the playing the pawn, it’s his turn to be king. Check and mate. He is ten steps ahead of everyone and fueled on rage and vengeance. But the question is, what is his motive? And what does Ada have to do with any of this? From the very beginning I loved Domino’s mysterious character. Him and his twisted morals and ethics; keeping his promises and doesn’t make empty threats. For a man who claims to have no soul, the chemistry between Ada and him was undeniable.
Blood Money is a superb depiction of the gritty reality of drug cartels, and a story that will force you to leave your own morals and beliefs at the front door, or swim in darkness where its every man for himself. I usually take my time with Lana’s books but after reading the synopsis of Bloody Money I was hooked. I stayed up till the brink of dawn to finish this book and I have no regrets. Cannot wait to see what happens in the next book.
Read
March 1, 2025Never write a book again thx
June 15, 2023
DNF 40% and I can’t keep going can’t stand the sh!!!!!!!t
July 3, 2021
𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊: BLOOD MONEY.
𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: DARK CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE.
𝐓𝐘𝐏𝐄: BOOK #1
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: LANA SKY.
𝐏𝐎𝐕: FIRST-PERSON: DUAL PERSPECTIVE.
𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆:⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐆𝐄𝐑𝐒: VIOLENCE, ABUSE, TORTURE.
𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐌 𝐋𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓:🤠🤠🤠🤠
𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆:🌏🌏🌏🌏
𝐄𝐘𝐄 𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐂𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑:🦋🦋🦋🦋
𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐄:
Alright! This book is so dark..so dark that even my depraved mind's appetite was fulfilled.
I did say this is the darkest one I have ever read from Author sky.
Danilo was an acquired taste...he was a true Antihero in every term, heartless, cruel and ruthless. But then there were so many layers to him too.
The plot of the book was the same vengeance story but still it was the characters that on me over. This book is more like a intro to what comes next...so there was not many parts where development of their relationship is taken. But I am hoping to see more in the next book.
Ada Marie was a pawn in her life..played by the big man and still she ends up paying the big price. I feel for her...she should have to go thorough that just because of her blood ties to a monster.
Will need to read Book 2...the cliffhanger makes me want to know them more.
𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: DARK CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE.
𝐓𝐘𝐏𝐄: BOOK #1
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: LANA SKY.
𝐏𝐎𝐕: FIRST-PERSON: DUAL PERSPECTIVE.
𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆:⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐆𝐄𝐑𝐒: VIOLENCE, ABUSE, TORTURE.
𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐌 𝐋𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓:🤠🤠🤠🤠
𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 𝐁𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆:🌏🌏🌏🌏
𝐄𝐘𝐄 𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐂𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑:🦋🦋🦋🦋
𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐄:
Alright! This book is so dark..so dark that even my depraved mind's appetite was fulfilled.
I did say this is the darkest one I have ever read from Author sky.
Danilo was an acquired taste...he was a true Antihero in every term, heartless, cruel and ruthless. But then there were so many layers to him too.
The plot of the book was the same vengeance story but still it was the characters that on me over. This book is more like a intro to what comes next...so there was not many parts where development of their relationship is taken. But I am hoping to see more in the next book.
Ada Marie was a pawn in her life..played by the big man and still she ends up paying the big price. I feel for her...she should have to go thorough that just because of her blood ties to a monster.
Will need to read Book 2...the cliffhanger makes me want to know them more.
July 2, 2023
3.5 stars
Read
August 18, 2021Dnf
March 22, 2022
This was terrible. I didn’t realize it was a trilogy and trilogies like these tend to be repetitive and boring. As for this it was very skim worthy. Ada was a ‘who’re’ and a dumb one at that whose only attribute is beauty and her body. There was nothing special about the girl and she bored me to death.
Domino was an Ahole and he lived up that. He called Ada every disgusting name he could think of and actually almost killed her and I didn’t disagree with him in some ways but the violence was a bit too much. It made it unbelievable and unredeemable for me to even believe they would fall inlove later. I get that it’s supposed to be dark romance but I am skipping this one because it is subpar at best.
Domino was an Ahole and he lived up that. He called Ada every disgusting name he could think of and actually almost killed her and I didn’t disagree with him in some ways but the violence was a bit too much. It made it unbelievable and unredeemable for me to even believe they would fall inlove later. I get that it’s supposed to be dark romance but I am skipping this one because it is subpar at best.
September 3, 2023
Book: Blood Money
Read By: Ebook and Audio
Author: Lana Sky
Narrator: Melanie Hastings
Genre: BDSM, Dark Romance
Main Characters: Ada-Marie and Domino
Recommend: Yes
Spice: 🌶️️🌶️️🌶️️
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
Ok this book is addictive.
I need more.
But it’s rare to meet someone that truly sends a shiver through my core. In fact, I think only one man has ever fit the bill. Domino Valenciaga.
If you liked Haunting Adeline, Lords of Pain, Corrupt etc then this is for you. It has the type of trigger warnings that has you questioning your sanity and your kinks.
“Because I don’t want to be gentle, that’s why.” He grabs my throat, wrenching me closer before I can react.
Don’t judge me till you have read it.
There is a million trigger warnings. Please read them before you take on this book. And after you read them don’t look at me funny lol
“No faking,” he commands. “No pretending. I don’t want that shit. I want…”
This book is very very very good, super addictive and depraved and I loved every single second of it. Ill be grabbing book 2-3 now. I need to know the ending.
His hand cinches my hair, his mouth against my ear. “For so fucking long, I’ve wanted you,” he growls. “Always you…”
I love Dark romance. And this is the type that holds my attention. Clearly im insane but I don’t mind. Cause these books consume my soul and im happy to give it. Highly recommend.
Read By: Ebook and Audio
Author: Lana Sky
Narrator: Melanie Hastings
Genre: BDSM, Dark Romance
Main Characters: Ada-Marie and Domino
Recommend: Yes
Spice: 🌶️️🌶️️🌶️️
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
Ok this book is addictive.
I need more.
But it’s rare to meet someone that truly sends a shiver through my core. In fact, I think only one man has ever fit the bill. Domino Valenciaga.
If you liked Haunting Adeline, Lords of Pain, Corrupt etc then this is for you. It has the type of trigger warnings that has you questioning your sanity and your kinks.
“Because I don’t want to be gentle, that’s why.” He grabs my throat, wrenching me closer before I can react.
Don’t judge me till you have read it.
There is a million trigger warnings. Please read them before you take on this book. And after you read them don’t look at me funny lol
“No faking,” he commands. “No pretending. I don’t want that shit. I want…”
This book is very very very good, super addictive and depraved and I loved every single second of it. Ill be grabbing book 2-3 now. I need to know the ending.
His hand cinches my hair, his mouth against my ear. “For so fucking long, I’ve wanted you,” he growls. “Always you…”
I love Dark romance. And this is the type that holds my attention. Clearly im insane but I don’t mind. Cause these books consume my soul and im happy to give it. Highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2021
4.4 stars
I always know going into a book by this author that she is going to mess with my mind. Her characters all have an intense backstory that takes on new meaning in their current circumstances.
This is going to be a bumpy ride. I can tell that their are a lot of secrets about to be exposed and no one is safe.
I always know going into a book by this author that she is going to mess with my mind. Her characters all have an intense backstory that takes on new meaning in their current circumstances.
This is going to be a bumpy ride. I can tell that their are a lot of secrets about to be exposed and no one is safe.
July 11, 2023
Maybe it’s the stress of nursing school but this book made me tear up. I’m also not usually a fan of this style of dark romance but I read the first 3 books in this series in 2 days.
June 28, 2021
Domino and Ada's story grabbed me hook, line and sinker. I was so engrossed in the intrigue that I lost track of what I was doing before I started this book. Absolutely devoured it
September 15, 2022
Love this book
June 29, 2021
OMG Is one word for this , I am shocked not expecting any of it and I loved every word. It is extremely raw, filled with so many questions and trying to figure out the answers to this dark world of Ada and Domino. Just wow there is no mercy and he is ruthless when it comes to her, I don't even know how I feel right now hate, sad or just plain shocked.
This is written beautifully with very developed characters that will hold your attention and consume you. Hold On Tight what a wild ride.
This is written beautifully with very developed characters that will hold your attention and consume you. Hold On Tight what a wild ride.
Want to read
August 2, 2024🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/4/2023)! 🎁
July 15, 2021
Domino Valenciago has turned out to be one of the most fascinating characters in all of Author Sky's repertoire. He was Don Roy Pavalos personal bodyguard, but didn't fit the bill very well. The prologue describes him:
"People always laughed when they heard his name, Domino. Paired with his unique attire and penchant for straw cowboy hats, the moniker attributed to his unique allure as a bodyguard. As a result, people rarely took him seriously upon their first meeting. Who does this mother$#&% think he is? Skeptical men would sometimes ask that very question while strolling from my father’s office—all while Domino himself would watch quietly from the sidelines of the sprawling boardroom they’d been summoned to. The next time they were ever seen again would be in pieces, grimly documented by a medical examiner called to investigate the cause of death. Most determinations were just guesses, of course—wood chipper accident, bear attack, and the average sky diving mishap."
Author Sky highlights this right away to set the tone of the story, and to possibly get us, the reader, off balance. Is he the villian or the hero? It won't be that easy in this tale of revenge. Daughter Ada Pavalos suddenly finds herself locked away under Domino's thumb, being held captive. At first she's shocked to be told she will be sold into slavery. But Author Sky is a pro. She slowly unveils Ada's sins and you realize she's not so innocent, and she's not a pampered princess either. Does she deserve this future?
The book is written completely from Ada's point of view, and while I missed Domino's point of view, I wonder if this is done on purpose by Author Sky. Is she keeping it close to the vest for the next book? Or do we find out that Ada is an unreliable narrator? Ada describes Domino in an almost infatuated way.
"He had an accent retained from a past no one knew anything about. Something from Latin America, maybe Portuguese, or Brazilian. The slight inflection turned every word he said into a double-edged sword, musical almost. Lethal in another sense. He was the only person I ever knew to make a death sentence sound beautiful."
"A simple change of clothing strips Domino Valenciaga of what little disarming charm he had. In its absence, the man is all darkness. Rippling muscle and terrifying strength."
She is fascinated by this man who pushes and pulls her around like a rag doll. Does she indeed fascinate him in the same way he fascinates her?
""His hand cinches my hair, his mouth against my ear. “For so $#&ing long, I’ve wanted you,” he growls. “Always you…”"
""My hands shake so badly I can barely hook them beneath the thin straps of the dress. I’m sloppy and rough, refusing to take my time or give him a show. Instead, I jerk the material over my head and throw it toward his feet. I don’t know why, but it feels more liberating than humiliating to stand here, knowing that I’ve defied at least one of his sick games. I don’t cower. Until he stands. The way he looks at me… My fragile assessment of him shatters. That gleam in his eye isn’t disinterest. It’s predatory. “Stop.” His command sinks into my body, rooting me in place before I even register moving. I’d been poised to take a step back, my foot still hovering above the floor. “Ay, Dios mío. I always want to remember you like this,” he rasps."
Domino goes back and forth, does he hate Ada or have any lingering feelings for her? Why is she so important in his plan of revenge? Author Sky gives us answers that lead to more questions, but in her defense those answers make you feel good about waiting for the next book. That's Author Sky's specialty: giving the reader enough to feel satisfied, and she's a pro at it.
You need to just dive into the book and revel in the cat and mouse game that's played. The dialogue is just so good...dark, smooth and sexy all at once. You will want to wrap yourself up in this book and let it take you to a place of controlled chaos.
"People always laughed when they heard his name, Domino. Paired with his unique attire and penchant for straw cowboy hats, the moniker attributed to his unique allure as a bodyguard. As a result, people rarely took him seriously upon their first meeting. Who does this mother$#&% think he is? Skeptical men would sometimes ask that very question while strolling from my father’s office—all while Domino himself would watch quietly from the sidelines of the sprawling boardroom they’d been summoned to. The next time they were ever seen again would be in pieces, grimly documented by a medical examiner called to investigate the cause of death. Most determinations were just guesses, of course—wood chipper accident, bear attack, and the average sky diving mishap."
Author Sky highlights this right away to set the tone of the story, and to possibly get us, the reader, off balance. Is he the villian or the hero? It won't be that easy in this tale of revenge. Daughter Ada Pavalos suddenly finds herself locked away under Domino's thumb, being held captive. At first she's shocked to be told she will be sold into slavery. But Author Sky is a pro. She slowly unveils Ada's sins and you realize she's not so innocent, and she's not a pampered princess either. Does she deserve this future?
The book is written completely from Ada's point of view, and while I missed Domino's point of view, I wonder if this is done on purpose by Author Sky. Is she keeping it close to the vest for the next book? Or do we find out that Ada is an unreliable narrator? Ada describes Domino in an almost infatuated way.
"He had an accent retained from a past no one knew anything about. Something from Latin America, maybe Portuguese, or Brazilian. The slight inflection turned every word he said into a double-edged sword, musical almost. Lethal in another sense. He was the only person I ever knew to make a death sentence sound beautiful."
"A simple change of clothing strips Domino Valenciaga of what little disarming charm he had. In its absence, the man is all darkness. Rippling muscle and terrifying strength."
She is fascinated by this man who pushes and pulls her around like a rag doll. Does she indeed fascinate him in the same way he fascinates her?
""His hand cinches my hair, his mouth against my ear. “For so $#&ing long, I’ve wanted you,” he growls. “Always you…”"
""My hands shake so badly I can barely hook them beneath the thin straps of the dress. I’m sloppy and rough, refusing to take my time or give him a show. Instead, I jerk the material over my head and throw it toward his feet. I don’t know why, but it feels more liberating than humiliating to stand here, knowing that I’ve defied at least one of his sick games. I don’t cower. Until he stands. The way he looks at me… My fragile assessment of him shatters. That gleam in his eye isn’t disinterest. It’s predatory. “Stop.” His command sinks into my body, rooting me in place before I even register moving. I’d been poised to take a step back, my foot still hovering above the floor. “Ay, Dios mío. I always want to remember you like this,” he rasps."
Domino goes back and forth, does he hate Ada or have any lingering feelings for her? Why is she so important in his plan of revenge? Author Sky gives us answers that lead to more questions, but in her defense those answers make you feel good about waiting for the next book. That's Author Sky's specialty: giving the reader enough to feel satisfied, and she's a pro at it.
You need to just dive into the book and revel in the cat and mouse game that's played. The dialogue is just so good...dark, smooth and sexy all at once. You will want to wrap yourself up in this book and let it take you to a place of controlled chaos.
June 28, 2021
An Emotional Tsunami
This book is DARK, an emotional tsunami of hate, anger, despair, violence and lust and I LOVED it! I am familiar with the author’s work, having read most of her back catalogue, and it is one of the darkest reads she has penned to date. I devoured it as soon as I got my mitts on it, in one single read. .
In Blood Money we have two complex and damaged individuals: Ada who has been used as a pawn in her father’s criminal empire, and Domino, who has bided his time and who now seeks terrible vengeance. He is cruel, devious and vengeful in the extreme. Indeed, the read contains a number of triggers, including graphic violence, and is not recommended for the faint of heart. However, if you hanker after extremely dark and psychological reads. then you will find it as addictive as I did.
Passions, secrets and misconceptions abound as revelations about the past slowly come to the fore. On the surface Ada is a shallow and insecure socialite. She is also very much a victim, a woman who is psychologically damaged, used to being controlled by those around her. When she is ripped from her familiar world and taken by Domino she struggles to come to terms with the turn her life has taken. I really enjoyed how she starts to draw on her inner strength not only to endure what her captor has in store for her but also to regain some semblance of control, however small.
The chemistry and power play between Domino, the captor and Ava his prisoner and victim is the focus of the novel and so far I am loving how their complex relationship is playing out. I am looking forward to how their characters develop as Ava is faced with atoning for the sins of others and also the sins she is held responsible for and Domino plays out his long awaited revenge.
The book ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to find out what happens next. Please note that I received a copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is DARK, an emotional tsunami of hate, anger, despair, violence and lust and I LOVED it! I am familiar with the author’s work, having read most of her back catalogue, and it is one of the darkest reads she has penned to date. I devoured it as soon as I got my mitts on it, in one single read. .
In Blood Money we have two complex and damaged individuals: Ada who has been used as a pawn in her father’s criminal empire, and Domino, who has bided his time and who now seeks terrible vengeance. He is cruel, devious and vengeful in the extreme. Indeed, the read contains a number of triggers, including graphic violence, and is not recommended for the faint of heart. However, if you hanker after extremely dark and psychological reads. then you will find it as addictive as I did.
Passions, secrets and misconceptions abound as revelations about the past slowly come to the fore. On the surface Ada is a shallow and insecure socialite. She is also very much a victim, a woman who is psychologically damaged, used to being controlled by those around her. When she is ripped from her familiar world and taken by Domino she struggles to come to terms with the turn her life has taken. I really enjoyed how she starts to draw on her inner strength not only to endure what her captor has in store for her but also to regain some semblance of control, however small.
The chemistry and power play between Domino, the captor and Ava his prisoner and victim is the focus of the novel and so far I am loving how their complex relationship is playing out. I am looking forward to how their characters develop as Ava is faced with atoning for the sins of others and also the sins she is held responsible for and Domino plays out his long awaited revenge.
The book ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to find out what happens next. Please note that I received a copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 29, 2021
Once again, Lana Sky leaves me amazed and in awe. I'm literally still trying to get my word together after reading this book.
This book was intense, dark, disturbing, and twisted. It was a real addictive page-turner; it consumed me from the very beginning, and it left me dying for more of this series.
Ada-Maria doesn't get a say in her life; she is a pawn on her father's game, always doing what her father expects and asks. He will do whatever it takes to further up every aspect of his life, thus using Ada to get there. It doesn't take long before Ada's world takes an unexpected turn at the hand of Domino Valenciaga, the bodyguard she tried to seduce for five years with no success.
Domino Valenciaga job as Ada's father right-hand man is over; he is out for revenge, full of rage, and ruthless. Domino has plans for Ada; he is someone who has a dark and twisted mind. After kidnapping Ada, he will come up with ways only he could to torture her. Ada thought she knew who Domino was, but she will be surprised by everything she's about to learn.
This story was mysterious and dark; in fact, it might be Lana's darkest one to this day. This story captured all the emotions between the characters, the anger, the angst, everything. There's a lot of depth with the main characters, and there is no love lost between Ada and Domino, but they definitely have chemistry.
The cliffhanger killed me; I can't wait to get the next book. I will definitely recommend this book if you are looking for a dark and twisted read. Make sure you read the TW before diving into the book.
July 9, 2021
I am truly a sucker for a heart-wrenching, angst, dark read! The number of times I teared up in anger and empathy for Ada-Marie was ridiculous, but I honestly loved every moment of it.
To most, Ada-Marie comes across as a stuck-up spoiled princess. She is used to having people, especially men, bow to her every whim. While out having lunch, the unthinkable happens. She is taken against her will by the last person she least expected, Domino. Confused by his actions, will Ada survive what's to come from her current predicament?
I could not get enough of Domino and Ada-Marie! My heart broke over and over again for Ada and what she's experienced in life. She was constantly being misunderstood and mischaracterized by those who SHOULD have had her best interests at heart but to them, she is nothing more than a "thing" to get a job done or a plan accomplished. Ada-Marie lived a life only to make others happy. One night, at her lowest point, she thought she'd found someone who looked beyond her "perfect" facade and saw the person she truly is. 10 years later, to her surprise and confusion, Domino decides to make Ada-Marie the recipient of his revenge. Unsure of his reasons, Ada believes she can persuade him to see the error of his ways using her tried and true persuasive abilities. I cannot wait until book 2 is released! Lana Sky is the queen of dark romance. I'm still somewhat of a "newbie" when it comes to this genre but hands down there is no other writer that leaves me on the edge of my seat, anxious to read the next sentence because I know it's going to be a doozy. I HIGHLY recommend this book/series!
To most, Ada-Marie comes across as a stuck-up spoiled princess. She is used to having people, especially men, bow to her every whim. While out having lunch, the unthinkable happens. She is taken against her will by the last person she least expected, Domino. Confused by his actions, will Ada survive what's to come from her current predicament?
I could not get enough of Domino and Ada-Marie! My heart broke over and over again for Ada and what she's experienced in life. She was constantly being misunderstood and mischaracterized by those who SHOULD have had her best interests at heart but to them, she is nothing more than a "thing" to get a job done or a plan accomplished. Ada-Marie lived a life only to make others happy. One night, at her lowest point, she thought she'd found someone who looked beyond her "perfect" facade and saw the person she truly is. 10 years later, to her surprise and confusion, Domino decides to make Ada-Marie the recipient of his revenge. Unsure of his reasons, Ada believes she can persuade him to see the error of his ways using her tried and true persuasive abilities. I cannot wait until book 2 is released! Lana Sky is the queen of dark romance. I'm still somewhat of a "newbie" when it comes to this genre but hands down there is no other writer that leaves me on the edge of my seat, anxious to read the next sentence because I know it's going to be a doozy. I HIGHLY recommend this book/series!
August 25, 2022
[I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy]
This post includes my reviews for the kindle version and the audiobook of “Blood Money" by Lana Sky.
Lana Sky’s Dinero de Sangre Trilogy tells the story of Ada-Maria Pavalos and Domino Valenciaga in a dark and angsty romance. Ada is a pawn in her father’s criminal empire. Domino who was the right-hand man to Ada-Maria’s father has done his time and is now seeking vengeance against her father. Domino does this by kidnapping Ada.
Kindle Review:
Rating 5/5
Plot 5/5
Spice 4/5
Writing 5/5
Character Development 5/5
“Blood Money” is the first book in Lana Sky’s Dinero de Sangre Trilogy. The book is filled with secrets, misconceptions, and lust. The characters are complex, damaged, and unique. I love the plot and I loved seeing Ada grow throughout the novel. She may be seen as a shallow, insecure, and self-conscious individual however as readers dive deeper into the novel they begin to understand that she is a victim of her father controlling and dictating her life. I also love how complex Ada and Domino are. Lana did a phenomenal job writing this book.
Audiobook Review:
Rating 5/5
Audio: 5/5
Plot 5/5
Spice 5/5
Character Development 5/5
The audiobook was amazing! I’ve been listening to a lot of audiobooks recently and I loved the narrator that Lana Sky worked with to bring this book to life (through audio). It was interesting hearing Hastings take on the audio for all of the characters in the book. I loved Hastings' voice and the different tones she uses for different characters.
I can’t wait to read/listen to the rest of the series!
This post includes my reviews for the kindle version and the audiobook of “Blood Money" by Lana Sky.
Lana Sky’s Dinero de Sangre Trilogy tells the story of Ada-Maria Pavalos and Domino Valenciaga in a dark and angsty romance. Ada is a pawn in her father’s criminal empire. Domino who was the right-hand man to Ada-Maria’s father has done his time and is now seeking vengeance against her father. Domino does this by kidnapping Ada.
Kindle Review:
Rating 5/5
Plot 5/5
Spice 4/5
Writing 5/5
Character Development 5/5
“Blood Money” is the first book in Lana Sky’s Dinero de Sangre Trilogy. The book is filled with secrets, misconceptions, and lust. The characters are complex, damaged, and unique. I love the plot and I loved seeing Ada grow throughout the novel. She may be seen as a shallow, insecure, and self-conscious individual however as readers dive deeper into the novel they begin to understand that she is a victim of her father controlling and dictating her life. I also love how complex Ada and Domino are. Lana did a phenomenal job writing this book.
Audiobook Review:
Rating 5/5
Audio: 5/5
Plot 5/5
Spice 5/5
Character Development 5/5
The audiobook was amazing! I’ve been listening to a lot of audiobooks recently and I loved the narrator that Lana Sky worked with to bring this book to life (through audio). It was interesting hearing Hastings take on the audio for all of the characters in the book. I loved Hastings' voice and the different tones she uses for different characters.
I can’t wait to read/listen to the rest of the series!
June 30, 2021
I received an Advanced Reader Copy for an honest and voluntary review
This is MOST DEFINITELY my new favorite series by Lana Sky 💙 This book was phenomenal!!! I love the plot and I love the characters ♥️ I could NOT put this gem 💎 down 😍
First, you have Dom 🖤 He’s a very complex man. His character really has you on your toes!! He was extremely loyal to Ada’s family, but it was all a ruse, with his motives being built around revenge. You get the sense he has feelings for Ada, but he stops himself from fully giving in, remembering his end goal. He threatens Ada and follows through with his punishments. You can tell he’s really struggling with his feelings for Ada and his plans for revenge against her family……
My heart completely breaks for Ada 💔 She is extremely used and abused by her family, namely her father!! She’s used as a pawn for him to be able to get ahead. Ada is an alcoholic, drug addict, is suicidal and has a severe eating disorder 🥺 Lana writes the character of Ada perfectly, as someone who suffers from all of these issues!! Her thoughts and actions seem very realistic to me. At times, this book could be hard to read through the heartbreak and tears, but it is well worth it!!
We have Dom Valenciaga, former bodyguard to Ada Pavalos’ family. Dom had an agenda while serving under the Pavalos’. When Ada is kidnapped by Dom, she doesn’t understand why because Dom has been loyal for years, as her father’s right hand man. However, Dom may not be the most dangerous person after Ada……
I VERY HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK 💙 FANTASTIC START TO A NEW SERIES 😍
This is MOST DEFINITELY my new favorite series by Lana Sky 💙 This book was phenomenal!!! I love the plot and I love the characters ♥️ I could NOT put this gem 💎 down 😍
First, you have Dom 🖤 He’s a very complex man. His character really has you on your toes!! He was extremely loyal to Ada’s family, but it was all a ruse, with his motives being built around revenge. You get the sense he has feelings for Ada, but he stops himself from fully giving in, remembering his end goal. He threatens Ada and follows through with his punishments. You can tell he’s really struggling with his feelings for Ada and his plans for revenge against her family……
My heart completely breaks for Ada 💔 She is extremely used and abused by her family, namely her father!! She’s used as a pawn for him to be able to get ahead. Ada is an alcoholic, drug addict, is suicidal and has a severe eating disorder 🥺 Lana writes the character of Ada perfectly, as someone who suffers from all of these issues!! Her thoughts and actions seem very realistic to me. At times, this book could be hard to read through the heartbreak and tears, but it is well worth it!!
We have Dom Valenciaga, former bodyguard to Ada Pavalos’ family. Dom had an agenda while serving under the Pavalos’. When Ada is kidnapped by Dom, she doesn’t understand why because Dom has been loyal for years, as her father’s right hand man. However, Dom may not be the most dangerous person after Ada……
I VERY HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK 💙 FANTASTIC START TO A NEW SERIES 😍
June 29, 2021
What a wild brutal ride! The dastardly Domino and his prey Ada. She’s a mob princess with a nasty father that used her for his gain. Domino was thought to be a trusted henchman for her father but he had a nefarious agenda all along. Dear ole dad is gone and Ada is in the hands of the villainous Domino. He has the wrong opinion of her and tortures her for the truth. Ha, the jokes on him. She’s not what she appears. She a little smarter than commonly thought. There are lots of villains in this story with plots and plans and an elusive bad guy in Jaguar. Ada has to have a few of her own to stay alive and in the right hands. The first half was a little slow with Ada in her head trying to figure out what is going on. It picks up when she pushes Domino and he reveals a few truths including his real identity. This has some really dark parts and not much romance, just scheming and players looking for the prize. It’s all twisted games and painful truths and lies. The ending leaves a question as to Ada’s fate and a surprise visitor shows up just when it looks like Domino has a change of heart. We’ll see with the next installment. I love this author’s dark romances but there was a little disconnect with this one for me. But it’s too soon to give up and I look forward to the next story in this dark series and hope for more romance. If you like the dark and twisted with a side of brutality this is for you. Worth the read!
October 2, 2025
Domino, a vengeful bodyguard, kills the corrupt politician he worked for and kidnaps his daughter, Ada, convinced she's complicit in her father's crimes. But as Domino realizes Ada is far from the willing accomplice he imagined, she must face the bitter truth that her childhood crush has become a dangerous, unrecognizable man.
A rare five star rating from me! I got completely sucked into this dark romance. The plot is heavily character driven and Domino and Ada's interactions are *angsty chef kiss*. They both carry tons of baggage and most of the book centers on them unpacking their misconceptions about one another while dealing with the fallout.
Ada begins the story as almost a shell of a human, having buried her humanity under years of being forced to sell her body and soul for her father's ambitions. Her slightly unreliable narration keeps the tension razor-sharp (especially since we only get her POV). It's riveting to watch Ada come alive while sparring with Domino and trying to outmaneuver him. Domino has been fooled for years by her cultivated "shallow rich girl" façade, and he slowly realizes there's far more to her than he ever allowed himself to see or feel. However, he does some pretty deranged and brutal things (both to Ada and others) along the way, so check those TWs if you're unsure. I'll definitely be reading book two.
CW: violence between MCs, eating disorder, drug abuse, child abuse
A rare five star rating from me! I got completely sucked into this dark romance. The plot is heavily character driven and Domino and Ada's interactions are *angsty chef kiss*. They both carry tons of baggage and most of the book centers on them unpacking their misconceptions about one another while dealing with the fallout.
Ada begins the story as almost a shell of a human, having buried her humanity under years of being forced to sell her body and soul for her father's ambitions. Her slightly unreliable narration keeps the tension razor-sharp (especially since we only get her POV). It's riveting to watch Ada come alive while sparring with Domino and trying to outmaneuver him. Domino has been fooled for years by her cultivated "shallow rich girl" façade, and he slowly realizes there's far more to her than he ever allowed himself to see or feel. However, he does some pretty deranged and brutal things (both to Ada and others) along the way, so check those TWs if you're unsure. I'll definitely be reading book two.
CW: violence between MCs, eating disorder, drug abuse, child abuse
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