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Doubeck Crime Family #2
Promise to Keep
I knew running from Adrian wouldn't be easy. That there was a risk I would be caught, but I never anticipated he would go to such great lengths to find me. Now that he knows what I've done I wonder if there will ever be love between us again, or if we were always meant to be enemies?
**This is book two in a duet and CANNOT be read as a standalone. Book 1 Vow to Protect must be read before this one.**
**This is book two in a duet and CANNOT be read as a standalone. Book 1 Vow to Protect must be read before this one.**
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 31, 2021
About the author
J.L. Beck
232 books7,435 followersJ.L. Beck is the USA Today Best Selling author of unapologetic romance. She lives in WI with her husband, two kids, and four dogs. She enjoys writing and recently starting a literary agency to help represent authors in the industry.
To learn more about her books or interact with her go here: https://linktr.ee/jlbeckbooks
J.L. Beck xoxoxo
To learn more about her books or interact with her go here: https://linktr.ee/jlbeckbooks
J.L. Beck xoxoxo
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
January 11, 2022
There was no point to this book.
December 29, 2021
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 4/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 2/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: No
Violence: Yes
Male: Leader & Sexy
Series: book 2 of 2
Pages: loc. 2846
Audio: No
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
This was a good continuation for me of Adrian and Valentina’s story. I liked that Adrian was still possessive over Valentina whether he was anger with her or not. His possessiveness looks as though it was driving him mad. His whole emotional roller coaster of emotions towards Valentina gave me what I needed from this book. Valentina definitely grew a bit from book one. I love the way she handles Adrian even when she is unsure of herself.
The plot itself was pleasing for me. Of course, that ending with the epilogue has me excited as another book will be birthed from this duet.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY:
Sex scenes for the second part were satisfactory.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
Secondary characters were good. I love Kai even more after book 2. I really hope there will be books to come on the five, Adrian’s special team, as they all sound interesting. Again, based on the epilogue and that surprise shocker at the end, I am excited for the next book.
OVERALL:
I love the second part to this series. Looking forward to the next book.
✰✰TRIGGERS: assault on a female & violence
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 4/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 2/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: No
Violence: Yes
Male: Leader & Sexy
Series: book 2 of 2
Pages: loc. 2846
Audio: No
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
This was a good continuation for me of Adrian and Valentina’s story. I liked that Adrian was still possessive over Valentina whether he was anger with her or not. His possessiveness looks as though it was driving him mad. His whole emotional roller coaster of emotions towards Valentina gave me what I needed from this book. Valentina definitely grew a bit from book one. I love the way she handles Adrian even when she is unsure of herself.
The plot itself was pleasing for me. Of course, that ending with the epilogue has me excited as another book will be birthed from this duet.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY:
Sex scenes for the second part were satisfactory.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
Secondary characters were good. I love Kai even more after book 2. I really hope there will be books to come on the five, Adrian’s special team, as they all sound interesting. Again, based on the epilogue and that surprise shocker at the end, I am excited for the next book.
OVERALL:
I love the second part to this series. Looking forward to the next book.
✰✰TRIGGERS: assault on a female & violence
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
May 1, 2022
I’m struggling with how to categorize this story. While it is said to be a completed duet, there are too many loose ends for me to call this story complete. Yes, there is a HFN ending for Adrian and Valentina. We see them unified as a couple with a baby on the way and an enemy to fight.
Except we end on a chapter from Kai. We learn what is probably the best and most exciting news of the duet, and we desire revenge on behalf of Adrian’s Five. Though we are left wondering how the Society is going to react; how Andrea is going to get her revenge; is the baby a boy or a girl; and a few more minor loose ends.
As for the story itself, I truly loved how Adrian was the doting father-to-be. The way he took the time to learn about his Angel’s pregnancy. The way he showered her with gifts to show his happiness for their pregnancy. And in hilarious fashion, the way he was afraid to have sex to the point of contemplating abstinence for nine months.
Yet it was Val’s insatiable pregnancy hormones that ultimately drove him to succumb. She refused to be denied and she refused to relent. Even when scared of her husband she made it a point to get her way, speak her mind, and probably be more of a brat than he was used to dealing with. And it gave me a glimpse of how he’s going to be in for a world of hurt if he has a little girl in his future, for she is going to wrap him around her cute little fingers.
Now onto Kai’s story in Bound to Darkness because I have so many questions!!
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
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Except we end on a chapter from Kai. We learn what is probably the best and most exciting news of the duet, and we desire revenge on behalf of Adrian’s Five. Though we are left wondering how the Society is going to react; how Andrea is going to get her revenge; is the baby a boy or a girl; and a few more minor loose ends.
As for the story itself, I truly loved how Adrian was the doting father-to-be. The way he took the time to learn about his Angel’s pregnancy. The way he showered her with gifts to show his happiness for their pregnancy. And in hilarious fashion, the way he was afraid to have sex to the point of contemplating abstinence for nine months.
Yet it was Val’s insatiable pregnancy hormones that ultimately drove him to succumb. She refused to be denied and she refused to relent. Even when scared of her husband she made it a point to get her way, speak her mind, and probably be more of a brat than he was used to dealing with. And it gave me a glimpse of how he’s going to be in for a world of hurt if he has a little girl in his future, for she is going to wrap him around her cute little fingers.
Now onto Kai’s story in Bound to Darkness because I have so many questions!!
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
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December 30, 2021
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : None
Pace of the story : moderate
Angst Rating : 5/10
Heat Rating : 6/10
Review :
Adrian and Valentina are back! I absolutely love these and after that disastrous ending of book one, I was dying for this one so bad! The suspense and that angst kept me hooked and being a dark romance lover I can say that this duet is amazing.
Valentina is in a Dilemma, she knew running away from Adrian was bad but she did it anyway because she had to escape from his rage. She had betrayed the one man no one dared to cross and now there was no saving her. That is until the monster of dreams catches her again. Being with Adrian now will be special especially with this chasm of hate between them.
I loved the duet so much! I can't ever have enough of the mafia from these authors because their heroes are to die for. They are swoony and the steam is off the charts hot. Definitely recommending this one to all the dark mafia romance loving people out there!
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January 2, 2022
3.5
This duet was safe for a jl beck book .
Safe
There is one scene where h and H are mad at each other and H leaves . His second in command brings a women so he could take his rage on but H claims he doesn’t need any one else but h . Nothing happens .
This duet was safe for a jl beck book .
Safe
There is one scene where h and H are mad at each other and H leaves . His second in command brings a women so he could take his rage on but H claims he doesn’t need any one else but h . Nothing happens .
December 30, 2021
Disappointed
Really disappointed with the second book. It really dragged in the middle. Lots of the twists didn’t make sense and had holes in the story. To say Adrian wanted val pregnant was confusing when she did become pregnant as he didn’t seem to careless. And the ending well not sure if it’s a cliff hanger or just a really vague ending for Adrian and val as it seems the next book it about Kai! If your reading this review and haven’t read the first book, I would recommend not bothering. But if you have read the first book and like me need a conclusion I’d read it but with low expectations.
Very disappointing as I normally like this author. Hoping after 3 months the next book actually redeems this book. But in all honesty after a 3 month wait I probably won’t bother with the next book.
Really disappointed with the second book. It really dragged in the middle. Lots of the twists didn’t make sense and had holes in the story. To say Adrian wanted val pregnant was confusing when she did become pregnant as he didn’t seem to careless. And the ending well not sure if it’s a cliff hanger or just a really vague ending for Adrian and val as it seems the next book it about Kai! If your reading this review and haven’t read the first book, I would recommend not bothering. But if you have read the first book and like me need a conclusion I’d read it but with low expectations.
Very disappointing as I normally like this author. Hoping after 3 months the next book actually redeems this book. But in all honesty after a 3 month wait I probably won’t bother with the next book.
Read
January 9, 2022This book gave me a whiplash and a headache, I dont know why I even bothered
April 24, 2024
I'm officially out of this series. Seriously, this was rough to get through. I should've known better though, because I had a hard time with the first book as well.
I couldn't stand Val. Her reason for leaving was ridiculous. They were at a place that she could've told Adrian and he would've reacted the way that he did. Then you have the cook helping her, but nothing happens to her once it comes out with the betrayal, lol. Where is this Billy badass, Adrian now? The I can kill you for leaving me, but yet we let the traitor go free because she up and quit?
I could keep going, but honestly, this was just rough. The ending sucked. There is no conclusion for these two, and the last chapter segways into Kai's story. After skimming through some of those reviews, it sounds worse than this one, so I'm going to bow out of reading the rest now.
I couldn't stand Val. Her reason for leaving was ridiculous. They were at a place that she could've told Adrian and he would've reacted the way that he did. Then you have the cook helping her, but nothing happens to her once it comes out with the betrayal, lol. Where is this Billy badass, Adrian now? The I can kill you for leaving me, but yet we let the traitor go free because she up and quit?
I could keep going, but honestly, this was just rough. The ending sucked. There is no conclusion for these two, and the last chapter segways into Kai's story. After skimming through some of those reviews, it sounds worse than this one, so I'm going to bow out of reading the rest now.
December 26, 2021
Ahh... Promise to Keep is one of my highly anticipated reads of 2021; I was dying to read this book!! And just like "Vow to Protect", I devoured this book in less than 24 hours! Valentina and Adrian's shakey and fragile relationship continues on in this book. It's book #2 in the Doubeck Crime Family Duet; book #1, "Vow to Protect", must be read first! It also concludes their story, and what an epic conclusion! J.L. Beck and Monica Corwin didn't disappoint me! They executed this novel outstandingly, exceeding my expectations. And I loved how the storyline unravelled: a bit of action and a couple of plot twists. But the ending was the cherry on top!!! I couldn't believe it!!! And I'm so excited to read Kia's book, "Bound to Darkness" next year.
Valentina has come a long way from the first book! Val's character took the spotlight in this book; her character evolved amazingly! She became a badass character and the queen she deserves to be! She finally had enough; Valentina started to stand up for herself; she stood her ground. And Adrian... ahh... seeing him lose his cool when Valentina disappeared; his desperation to find her, it was heartbreaking to see. I really liked how the authors portrayed Adrian's vulnerable side: Valentina is his weakness, Adrian has a soft spot for her, and Val makes him lose control. But when Val and Adrian are together, they are the ultimate power force. Overall, loved, loved reading this duet! If you a fan of the trope arranged/or forced marriage, dark or mafia romances, or you are looking for a fast-paced read that will *easily* get you hooked, this duet is for you! Please check the triggers before reading.
When a revelation is brought to light, Valentina had to disappear, it broke her heart to leave Adrian, but she had no choice. She did this out of love; to protect the man she loves. When Valentina left without a trace, Adrian lost it. Like a mad man, he started to look for her: no stone was left untouched. When Ardian learns about Valentina's secret, he is shocked, to say the least. And nothing is going to be the same.
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review
Valentina has come a long way from the first book! Val's character took the spotlight in this book; her character evolved amazingly! She became a badass character and the queen she deserves to be! She finally had enough; Valentina started to stand up for herself; she stood her ground. And Adrian... ahh... seeing him lose his cool when Valentina disappeared; his desperation to find her, it was heartbreaking to see. I really liked how the authors portrayed Adrian's vulnerable side: Valentina is his weakness, Adrian has a soft spot for her, and Val makes him lose control. But when Val and Adrian are together, they are the ultimate power force. Overall, loved, loved reading this duet! If you a fan of the trope arranged/or forced marriage, dark or mafia romances, or you are looking for a fast-paced read that will *easily* get you hooked, this duet is for you! Please check the triggers before reading.
When a revelation is brought to light, Valentina had to disappear, it broke her heart to leave Adrian, but she had no choice. She did this out of love; to protect the man she loves. When Valentina left without a trace, Adrian lost it. Like a mad man, he started to look for her: no stone was left untouched. When Ardian learns about Valentina's secret, he is shocked, to say the least. And nothing is going to be the same.
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review
December 23, 2021
Adrian and Valentina are meant to be, but will her betrayal be forgiven? She left and with a secret no doubt, Adrian will not stop until he finds her and gets the answers he needs, but when the truth comes out, will he be able to forgive her for helping her father when she was a child do the unthinkable? The push and pull between them is intense, Val is strong but weak when it comes to telling the truth about everything, she doesn’t want to lose Adrian. She’s changed him and is now his weakness and that will not help going up against the council. Their story is action packed, steamy and a page turner. I can’t wait for more.
September 25, 2023
Adrian Doubeck head of Family and Valentina Novak (Novak Family)
Adrian has the Five in his "familia" Kai (second in command) tech genius, Andrea, Mikail, Leon, ?
Valentina remembers her father asking her to hand him the gun when she was four years old and he shoots Adrian's mother. Adrian said he would avenge his mother's death.
Valentina finds out she is pregnant with Adrian's child when she find's his mother's photo with him and her in it in his office. She panics and runs away. The cook who hates her actually helps her get away. Later she finds out the cook is really working for her father who tries to zap her with a tazer to force an abortion. She happens to have a pistol in her pants and shoots him point blank. She calls Adrian. He is relieved to have her back but doesn't trust her and she finally tells him everything. He is very upset but overjoyed to learn he is having a baby. They eventually learn to forgive and make up.
They caught Sal and killed him. Now the council is after them. Adrian goes to a trial and Kai, Andrea and Valentina come to the meeting to save Adrian. Kai has filmed the entire meeting and it is live streamed for all the familia to see. Kai is locked up and everyone is set free. After seeing the livestream many familia want the council recalled. There is hope for the Doubeck's now. Meanwhile Rose didn't die at Sal's hand and has been kept safe in an underground room on the Doubeck compound. She is suffering mentally from the rape and near death and abuse from Sal. Kai has been caring for her. She won't let anyone touch her and doesn't want to see Valentina who is her best friend and cousin.
Adrian has the Five in his "familia" Kai (second in command) tech genius, Andrea, Mikail, Leon, ?
Valentina remembers her father asking her to hand him the gun when she was four years old and he shoots Adrian's mother. Adrian said he would avenge his mother's death.
Valentina finds out she is pregnant with Adrian's child when she find's his mother's photo with him and her in it in his office. She panics and runs away. The cook who hates her actually helps her get away. Later she finds out the cook is really working for her father who tries to zap her with a tazer to force an abortion. She happens to have a pistol in her pants and shoots him point blank. She calls Adrian. He is relieved to have her back but doesn't trust her and she finally tells him everything. He is very upset but overjoyed to learn he is having a baby. They eventually learn to forgive and make up.
They caught Sal and killed him. Now the council is after them. Adrian goes to a trial and Kai, Andrea and Valentina come to the meeting to save Adrian. Kai has filmed the entire meeting and it is live streamed for all the familia to see. Kai is locked up and everyone is set free. After seeing the livestream many familia want the council recalled. There is hope for the Doubeck's now. Meanwhile Rose didn't die at Sal's hand and has been kept safe in an underground room on the Doubeck compound. She is suffering mentally from the rape and near death and abuse from Sal. Kai has been caring for her. She won't let anyone touch her and doesn't want to see Valentina who is her best friend and cousin.
December 22, 2021
I need more
Adrian and Vals intense emotional broken heartstopping love story
All the feels
Twists and turns
Need kai
Adrian and Vals intense emotional broken heartstopping love story
All the feels
Twists and turns
Need kai
January 10, 2022
In book two, I was really hoping for some character growth for Val. She is on the run, she has something important to protect and she has to figure out how to survive... For about five minutes. She collapses like a wet noodle at the first opportunity to stand up and take control of her future. After that, it's all tears, tears, tears (which was annoying in the first book but even worse in the second)
Everyone keeps talking about how "dangerous" and "monster" Adrian is and I keep looking for proof of that. He bends the knee to a "council"? What the hell? Why would he? I just didn't get the motivation for the big climactic scene at the end.
This book had so much potential that it squandered.
However, just like book 1, the cliffhanger got me to book 2, In this book, while not technically a cliffhanger, I am intrigued by Kai and his charge and am interested to see if the authors can make this twist make sense. I wish I had more confidence that they will.
Everyone keeps talking about how "dangerous" and "monster" Adrian is and I keep looking for proof of that. He bends the knee to a "council"? What the hell? Why would he? I just didn't get the motivation for the big climactic scene at the end.
This book had so much potential that it squandered.
However, just like book 1, the cliffhanger got me to book 2, In this book, while not technically a cliffhanger, I am intrigued by Kai and his charge and am interested to see if the authors can make this twist make sense. I wish I had more confidence that they will.
December 22, 2021
Valentina and Adrian's story continues in Promise To Keep. And it is absolutely spine tingling.. These two are utterly combustible they are so hot! Adrian is his usual controlling self but, it seems Valentina has developed a backbone, or maybe it was always there she's just brought it to the forefront. Either way she's fierce as h*l^ and takes nothing from Adrian. Promise To Keep is the next tantalizing installment of the Doubeck Crime Family series. Valentina and Adrian's story is full of action and excitement and had me anxiously waiting to see what came next. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
October 8, 2022
1.5 stars ⭐️
“Without her, the world will burn, and me along with it. I won’t live without her.“
I feel like there wasn’t really a point to this book. Every single aspect is predictable, since the main relationship doesn’t grow, nor do the individual characters.
All in all, it was boring and I won’t continue this series!
“Without her, the world will burn, and me along with it. I won’t live without her.“
I feel like there wasn’t really a point to this book. Every single aspect is predictable, since the main relationship doesn’t grow, nor do the individual characters.
All in all, it was boring and I won’t continue this series!
Want to Read
September 10, 2021I can’t believe I’m waiting 3 months to read this book. Can’t wait to read it!
December 27, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
I knew running from Adrian wouldn't be easy. That there was a risk I would be caught, but I never anticipated he would go to such great lengths to find me. Now that he knows what I've done I wonder if there will ever be love between us again, or if we were always meant to be enemies?
This is the second book in the Vow to Protect Duet. You will need to read or have read Vow to Protect or you are going to be lost when picking up Promise to Keep. This book also picks up where Vow to Protect left off and Valentina is on the run from Adrian. She is in a mess really and I don't for the life of me know why she thought she could ever get away from him. I mean I get it I would have run too. But, I don't think she considered how much Adrian would not let her leave for anything in the world. It wasn't like he wasn't falling for her and she for him but now she had betrayed him in one of the worst ways that she ever could have. Not only did she leave but she left with a huge secret too. Adrian is a man possessed when he figure out she is gone and he is not going to rest until he has that woman back where she belongs with him. But the secret she carries if he can forgive her for running will probably implode his entire world and I do not know that he will ever in a million years be able to forgive her. Well I do know but I can't tell you. Oooops, sorry!! I have to say too that these two character have some amazing chemistry and this push and pull in their relationship that everyone is going to love. I really adored this duet and loved this book as much as the first. Yes, all your questions are answered but I can't tell you if they get the happily ever after that everyone is probably rooting for in this book or not. You have to read and find out but it is a duet well worth reading.
I knew running from Adrian wouldn't be easy. That there was a risk I would be caught, but I never anticipated he would go to such great lengths to find me. Now that he knows what I've done I wonder if there will ever be love between us again, or if we were always meant to be enemies?
This is the second book in the Vow to Protect Duet. You will need to read or have read Vow to Protect or you are going to be lost when picking up Promise to Keep. This book also picks up where Vow to Protect left off and Valentina is on the run from Adrian. She is in a mess really and I don't for the life of me know why she thought she could ever get away from him. I mean I get it I would have run too. But, I don't think she considered how much Adrian would not let her leave for anything in the world. It wasn't like he wasn't falling for her and she for him but now she had betrayed him in one of the worst ways that she ever could have. Not only did she leave but she left with a huge secret too. Adrian is a man possessed when he figure out she is gone and he is not going to rest until he has that woman back where she belongs with him. But the secret she carries if he can forgive her for running will probably implode his entire world and I do not know that he will ever in a million years be able to forgive her. Well I do know but I can't tell you. Oooops, sorry!! I have to say too that these two character have some amazing chemistry and this push and pull in their relationship that everyone is going to love. I really adored this duet and loved this book as much as the first. Yes, all your questions are answered but I can't tell you if they get the happily ever after that everyone is probably rooting for in this book or not. You have to read and find out but it is a duet well worth reading.
December 27, 2021
***ARC RECEIVED FOR HONEST REVIEW***
I read this book in 1 day!!
I love Adrian and Valentina's story. Both characters are facing their biggest challenge yet!
I love Adrian, he would do anything for Valentina, but Valentina stole the show, she became the Queen, equal to her husband and stronger than before. I loved watching Valentina grow and become powerful in her own way. I love their relationship, they will do anything for each other.
The side characters made the book even better! I hope we get a book about them soon!! They have my attention!
I loved how the couple had to deal with everyday issues in a relationship: communication, trust and being individuals.
I read this book in 1 day!!
I love Adrian and Valentina's story. Both characters are facing their biggest challenge yet!
I love Adrian, he would do anything for Valentina, but Valentina stole the show, she became the Queen, equal to her husband and stronger than before. I loved watching Valentina grow and become powerful in her own way. I love their relationship, they will do anything for each other.
The side characters made the book even better! I hope we get a book about them soon!! They have my attention!
I loved how the couple had to deal with everyday issues in a relationship: communication, trust and being individuals.
April 7, 2023
Once again, not a fan of the female narration of the audiobook on this duet. The story was basically more of the same from book 1, but we finally see things completed that were promised in book 1. I didn't like the ending as it was almost an HFN rather than a HEA for this couple, but I am excited to see how the last chapter went (told by a side character, who I assume will be the H in the next book.)
October 30, 2023
Honestly, I liked the first book more, but this one definitely had more plot twists. It was just hard to get into because Val was whining a lot, and Adrian was being an overprotective ass, and it got worse when he found out she was pregnant. Although she did just find out she was pregnant, helped kill Adrian's mom, runaway, and killed her dad in a matter of a week, so maybe he was justified a little bit. Also, I would have been really pissed if Andrea actually turned on them. I'm so glad it was a ploy to help Adrian. However, fuck Kai! How could he keep Rose being alive a secret!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2021
PROMISE TO KEEP by JL Beck & Monica Corwin is book Two in the Vow to Protect Duet Series. This continues the story of Valentina 'Val' Novak and Aidrian Doubek. You do have to read the previous book 'Vow to Protect' to fully enjoy and understand the start of their story. We where left with a big cliffhanger in the last book but this book does start to close in on their happy ending. Val is on the run but when she is caught will her betrayal be forgiven. This was a page turning book just like the last one. Enjoyed this duet.
January 1, 2022
Excellent read but I don't see this as the end!!
The description says this is book two in a duet but I still feel like Adrian and Valentina's story is not quite finished. Plus now it seems Kai is in need of having his story told as well. So I look forward to the next book in this series, Bound To Darkness. Just know that these books are wonderfully written, have excellent characters and a very intriguing storyline. Definitely a must read but be prepared to want more at the end of each book!!
The description says this is book two in a duet but I still feel like Adrian and Valentina's story is not quite finished. Plus now it seems Kai is in need of having his story told as well. So I look forward to the next book in this series, Bound To Darkness. Just know that these books are wonderfully written, have excellent characters and a very intriguing storyline. Definitely a must read but be prepared to want more at the end of each book!!
October 12, 2022
Great ending to an amazing story. Loved both of them. Will read more of her books. 📚🔥💞🔥📚🔥💞📚🔥💞📚🔥📚🔥📚
December 30, 2021
This is the second book in this duet and I do recommend reading them in order. Val is on the run and in danger, her father catches up to her and to save herself and her baby she kills him. She goes to the only person who knows that can help her, Adrian. What will happen when he discovers the truth about what she did. Will he ever be able to forgive her? Fast-paced read with loads of drama, suspense and steam. Great characters with lots of depth and emotion. I liked it.
January 5, 2022
How much I loved Adrian and Valentina! I could not wait to read this one and it did not disappoint . Adrian is the epitome of an extreme possessive man. When Valentina leaves him, he is crazy with worry and is willing to kill his right hand man for letting her go. But Valentina ends up in a very dire, dangerous situation, she calls Adrian for help knowing this could be the end. Adrian is so outraged but relieved to get her back but he needs to know why she left him. He tells her if she leaves him again, he will kill her. She is so frightened and fears him she can't tell him the truth but it finally comes out . Adrian is so overwhelmed , overwhelmed with grief, disgust, anger. Can he come to terms with it and move on? The secrets are going to destroy them. 10 fricken stars so good!
January 8, 2022
I loved the first one, waited for what felt like ages for this one… and it ways, idk, bad? Boring? Rushed.
The mother problem goes away in the first part of the book, and the rest is just, boring as hell.
Wtf happened.
The mother problem goes away in the first part of the book, and the rest is just, boring as hell.
Wtf happened.
September 12, 2023
Doubt I’ll be finishing this series…
February 4, 2022
I really enjoyed book one of this series and anticipated the release of this book. What a disappointment! I skimmed the last third of the book because I was quickly losing interest in the story and the characters. There was little recap of the angst and storyline that involved the society which made reading book 2 seem like catch-up. The ending brought more questions than it did answers with little resolution with the society/council, and all of it's players.
Reasons for Rating:
These books were too long between release dates which is a pet peeve of mine. Book two was difficult to pick-up where book one left off. The story line felt spotty and lost the depth that I had enjoyed in book one. It felt as though book 2 began with too much repetitive and unnecessary dialogue that didn't add to the story nor did it build on the story. Adrian's character has always been a difficult one to like but was penned in book 2 as "an overly testosterone possessive alpha" that could lose his sense of balance when dealing with difficult issues. One minute he was dying inside because Valentina was missing and the next he was threatening her with death or sale if she didn't submit to his every whim. Adrian's character was slow on the uptake of reining in his anger and using his brain instead of his brawn. Later on in the book he does accomplish that with Valentina's help. His moments of tenderness became more prevalent by books' end even though he is a very stubborn H throughout much of this series. He and Valentina begin to spend time talking and discussing the issues they are dealing with instead of just reverting to sex.
Valentina's character lost points in book 2, as well. Her entire reason for running and her lack of preparation made no sense at all. She was surprised that she was pregnant, had no viable plan of escape, had little money and didn't even take a car or get an Uber, but walked. She ends up calling Adrian for help when she kills her father even though nothing has changed with why she ran. Her character often was hard to follow because she could come across as smart and outspoken and the next moment her character seemed like she was unable to put one foot in front of the other. Even after she confesses her secret and tells Adrian she is pregnant the dynamics between these two characters seemed off at times until later in the story. Their issues were always settled with "sex" which is the central theme of relationship's in this genre, never addressing the main problem but using sex as a diversion tactic. Once it's over you are right back to square one.
The book overall had it's moments. The couple does come together to fight the council and the people that terrorized Valentina and Rose and who caused so much havoc for Adrian's family. There were too many unanswered questions and too many things left unresolved with the addition of other characters. The couple gets there HFN ending because this is not the end of the story for these two characters with a book 3 coming out. It may be Kai's story but Adrian and Valentina's character's will most likely be in it as well.
Reasons for Rating:
These books were too long between release dates which is a pet peeve of mine. Book two was difficult to pick-up where book one left off. The story line felt spotty and lost the depth that I had enjoyed in book one. It felt as though book 2 began with too much repetitive and unnecessary dialogue that didn't add to the story nor did it build on the story. Adrian's character has always been a difficult one to like but was penned in book 2 as "an overly testosterone possessive alpha" that could lose his sense of balance when dealing with difficult issues. One minute he was dying inside because Valentina was missing and the next he was threatening her with death or sale if she didn't submit to his every whim. Adrian's character was slow on the uptake of reining in his anger and using his brain instead of his brawn. Later on in the book he does accomplish that with Valentina's help. His moments of tenderness became more prevalent by books' end even though he is a very stubborn H throughout much of this series. He and Valentina begin to spend time talking and discussing the issues they are dealing with instead of just reverting to sex.
Valentina's character lost points in book 2, as well. Her entire reason for running and her lack of preparation made no sense at all. She was surprised that she was pregnant, had no viable plan of escape, had little money and didn't even take a car or get an Uber, but walked. She ends up calling Adrian for help when she kills her father even though nothing has changed with why she ran. Her character often was hard to follow because she could come across as smart and outspoken and the next moment her character seemed like she was unable to put one foot in front of the other. Even after she confesses her secret and tells Adrian she is pregnant the dynamics between these two characters seemed off at times until later in the story. Their issues were always settled with "sex" which is the central theme of relationship's in this genre, never addressing the main problem but using sex as a diversion tactic. Once it's over you are right back to square one.
The book overall had it's moments. The couple does come together to fight the council and the people that terrorized Valentina and Rose and who caused so much havoc for Adrian's family. There were too many unanswered questions and too many things left unresolved with the addition of other characters. The couple gets there HFN ending because this is not the end of the story for these two characters with a book 3 coming out. It may be Kai's story but Adrian and Valentina's character's will most likely be in it as well.
December 26, 2021
Promise to Keep J.L. Beck , Monica Corwin Vow to Protect Duet #2
Powerful, climatic, violent and passionate this dark danger filled story will pull you in from beginning to end, as the story picks up when Val leaves Adrian after learning her part in his mother's death. Her only thought is for her unborn child, brokenhearted as the turbulent relationship between her and Adrian was just starting to become more. Now she is on the run, will Adrian find her? Adrian now becomes violent once more lashing out on Kai and the others who are desperately looking for his wife. With the Council on his heels after both of them for the death of Sal, will he find her in time? Val thinking she is being helped from someone close to Adrian, finds that her father is behind her escape when her arrives where she is hiding only to be beaten as he tells her she will be leaving with him. When he threatens to kill her child, to protect herself she ends her father and reaches out to the one person who might destroy her, Adrian. Now we find Adrian doing everything he can to help his wife who is incoherent and in shock. Once Val is able to talk, she has no choice but to tell Adrian why she ran. Adrian is full of anger and in pain as his first thought is should he kill her or will the love that is between them be destroyed by her confession? Through all of this, the one thing that prevails between them that will never die, is the raw, intense sexual passion they have for each other that will change the outcome.
When he learns that he is going to be a father can they put all of the pain and hurt behind them and try once more being together? Adrian will soon see a different side to Val who has become this strong willed fierce woman as she has demands she wants from Adrian in order to move forward. Adrian needs to promise to protect her and his child from the Council at all costs as she will not allow her child to become a pawn as she was. Now these two will work together and face the danger that is headed towards them when Adrian is called to the Council which may end up him losing his life. Unknown to Adrian a plan is put into motion by Kai, Andrea and Val. Will their plan work against the Council or will it be the end of all of them? This story has so much suspense, mystery, and danger with an ending that will blow you away with a dramatic rescue and Val learning that someone she loved is still alive. So many questions still need to be addressed regarding the Council and Kai's revenge and the future for Adrian and Val. J.L . Beck/Monica Corwin has once again outdone themselves with this duet leaving us wanting more. Can't wait for Kai's story.
Powerful, climatic, violent and passionate this dark danger filled story will pull you in from beginning to end, as the story picks up when Val leaves Adrian after learning her part in his mother's death. Her only thought is for her unborn child, brokenhearted as the turbulent relationship between her and Adrian was just starting to become more. Now she is on the run, will Adrian find her? Adrian now becomes violent once more lashing out on Kai and the others who are desperately looking for his wife. With the Council on his heels after both of them for the death of Sal, will he find her in time? Val thinking she is being helped from someone close to Adrian, finds that her father is behind her escape when her arrives where she is hiding only to be beaten as he tells her she will be leaving with him. When he threatens to kill her child, to protect herself she ends her father and reaches out to the one person who might destroy her, Adrian. Now we find Adrian doing everything he can to help his wife who is incoherent and in shock. Once Val is able to talk, she has no choice but to tell Adrian why she ran. Adrian is full of anger and in pain as his first thought is should he kill her or will the love that is between them be destroyed by her confession? Through all of this, the one thing that prevails between them that will never die, is the raw, intense sexual passion they have for each other that will change the outcome.
When he learns that he is going to be a father can they put all of the pain and hurt behind them and try once more being together? Adrian will soon see a different side to Val who has become this strong willed fierce woman as she has demands she wants from Adrian in order to move forward. Adrian needs to promise to protect her and his child from the Council at all costs as she will not allow her child to become a pawn as she was. Now these two will work together and face the danger that is headed towards them when Adrian is called to the Council which may end up him losing his life. Unknown to Adrian a plan is put into motion by Kai, Andrea and Val. Will their plan work against the Council or will it be the end of all of them? This story has so much suspense, mystery, and danger with an ending that will blow you away with a dramatic rescue and Val learning that someone she loved is still alive. So many questions still need to be addressed regarding the Council and Kai's revenge and the future for Adrian and Val. J.L . Beck/Monica Corwin has once again outdone themselves with this duet leaving us wanting more. Can't wait for Kai's story.
May 31, 2023
(This is a combined review for the Doubeck Crime Family books one and two duet).
This duet had me riveted from beginning to end. The mafia drama and the bad blood histories keep the story moving at a pretty good pace, and there are a number of twists that will have your jaw on the floor. Particularly the cliffy at the end of the first book. I wouldn’t imagine having to wait for the second book. Fortunately for me, this was a back list read I listened to via Audible so both books were already out.
The Doubeck Crime Family duet has quite a few characters, some of whom continue on within the world (I haven’t listened to their books yet). This duet’s couple is Adrian and Valentina. Adrian Doubeck is everything we’ve come to know and love in mafia romance: the morally gray, alpha boss antihero. Valentina ‘Val’ Novak is a mafia princess who’s V-card has been used a bargaining chip by her father. She’s young but some of her innocence has been lost due to all of the abuse she’s endured. I will warn you, if you listen to the audiobook, the female narrator is awful. She makes Val sound like a whiny newscaster but the character’s words are not whiny. It’s just the performance. The male narrator is wonderful. Between his talents and the truly captivating story, it’s worth sticking through it if audiobook is your preferred form of reading.
Val’s family sucks balls. Seriously. Her dad is an abusive pile of horse manure who has peddled her off to a guy so terrible, you just know he would bang a corpse if the mood was right. In a move of utter desperation for safety, she turns to Adrian Doubek, the boss of a rival family, and offers herself in exchange for the protection of her cousin Rose and the murder of her fuckface fiancé Sal (dude… I really don’t like him). Adrian agrees and before the move can be made, shit goes sideways, igniting a whole mess of violence.
Fun fact: I didn’t know this was an age gap romance through most of the duet. I mean, looking back, it makes sense and I genuinely don’t know why that fact flew over my head. That being said, I think that speaks to the lack of creep factor over their age difference (not always the case; sometimes….it’s a thing), and I think it speaks to the authors’ ability to normalize the dynamic rather than fetishizing it. So if age gap isn’t your thing, just ignore that there is one and you’ll barely notice. Honestly, the only part that made me really notice was in one scene, he’s watching her sleep and his internal dialog is waxing poetic about her beauty and he thinks something along the lines of she looks soooooo young. That’s about the most in-your-face reference to their age difference, which really isn’t much.
Heat Level = 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Rating = 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Full Review: https://seductivereads.com/2023/06/03...
This duet had me riveted from beginning to end. The mafia drama and the bad blood histories keep the story moving at a pretty good pace, and there are a number of twists that will have your jaw on the floor. Particularly the cliffy at the end of the first book. I wouldn’t imagine having to wait for the second book. Fortunately for me, this was a back list read I listened to via Audible so both books were already out.
The Doubeck Crime Family duet has quite a few characters, some of whom continue on within the world (I haven’t listened to their books yet). This duet’s couple is Adrian and Valentina. Adrian Doubeck is everything we’ve come to know and love in mafia romance: the morally gray, alpha boss antihero. Valentina ‘Val’ Novak is a mafia princess who’s V-card has been used a bargaining chip by her father. She’s young but some of her innocence has been lost due to all of the abuse she’s endured. I will warn you, if you listen to the audiobook, the female narrator is awful. She makes Val sound like a whiny newscaster but the character’s words are not whiny. It’s just the performance. The male narrator is wonderful. Between his talents and the truly captivating story, it’s worth sticking through it if audiobook is your preferred form of reading.
Val’s family sucks balls. Seriously. Her dad is an abusive pile of horse manure who has peddled her off to a guy so terrible, you just know he would bang a corpse if the mood was right. In a move of utter desperation for safety, she turns to Adrian Doubek, the boss of a rival family, and offers herself in exchange for the protection of her cousin Rose and the murder of her fuckface fiancé Sal (dude… I really don’t like him). Adrian agrees and before the move can be made, shit goes sideways, igniting a whole mess of violence.
Fun fact: I didn’t know this was an age gap romance through most of the duet. I mean, looking back, it makes sense and I genuinely don’t know why that fact flew over my head. That being said, I think that speaks to the lack of creep factor over their age difference (not always the case; sometimes….it’s a thing), and I think it speaks to the authors’ ability to normalize the dynamic rather than fetishizing it. So if age gap isn’t your thing, just ignore that there is one and you’ll barely notice. Honestly, the only part that made me really notice was in one scene, he’s watching her sleep and his internal dialog is waxing poetic about her beauty and he thinks something along the lines of she looks soooooo young. That’s about the most in-your-face reference to their age difference, which really isn’t much.
Heat Level = 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Rating = 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Full Review: https://seductivereads.com/2023/06/03...
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