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Red Cage #5
The Crowned Deceiver
He's a man with a mask, and he's off-limits...
They call him Guy.
They say he’s “loyal,” “trustworthy,” “solid.” Without him, Red Cage would collapse like a house of cards.
He’s the man my brothers trust with their lives, and by extension, my life. The praises of his multifaceted capabilities ring louder than God’s.
Somehow, it seems like I’m the only one who sees through his façade. Like I’m the only one who smells his provocative fragrance of deception, guile, and knavery.
To everyone else, he’s the ever-helpful, ever-willing good guy.
To me, he’s a giant prick.
Is it really just me who notices the darkness that emanates from him like tendrils of black smoke? Is it only me who sees the man behind the mask?
Determined to expose his duplicity, I follow him down a dark alley one night…
I thought uncovering the truth would validate me.
I was not prepared for it to seduce me…
This book is a standalone. It is not necessary to read the other books in the series to read this one. This story does not hinge on the plots of previous books. It's totally fine to start here.
They call him Guy.
They say he’s “loyal,” “trustworthy,” “solid.” Without him, Red Cage would collapse like a house of cards.
He’s the man my brothers trust with their lives, and by extension, my life. The praises of his multifaceted capabilities ring louder than God’s.
Somehow, it seems like I’m the only one who sees through his façade. Like I’m the only one who smells his provocative fragrance of deception, guile, and knavery.
To everyone else, he’s the ever-helpful, ever-willing good guy.
To me, he’s a giant prick.
Is it really just me who notices the darkness that emanates from him like tendrils of black smoke? Is it only me who sees the man behind the mask?
Determined to expose his duplicity, I follow him down a dark alley one night…
I thought uncovering the truth would validate me.
I was not prepared for it to seduce me…
This book is a standalone. It is not necessary to read the other books in the series to read this one. This story does not hinge on the plots of previous books. It's totally fine to start here.
Unknown Binding
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45 people want to read
About the author
S. Ann Cole
23 books404 followersI LOVE too much.
I READ too much.
I DREAM too much.
That about sums me up.
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READ TO ENJOY, NOT TO DESTROY.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
November 28, 2023
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review!
I have to say that I’m so upset that I discovered that you can sign up for arc reads way to late in life .
But I’m here now , after I fell in love with this author’s writing style back in 2020 .
This was a very anticipated read for me and did not disappoint one bit .
How to sell it without spoiling it ? You want mafia , secrets , and unexpected love and unexpected plot ? This is your book ❤️.
I loved it , captivated by it from start to finish !! 5 out of 5 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I have to say that I’m so upset that I discovered that you can sign up for arc reads way to late in life .
But I’m here now , after I fell in love with this author’s writing style back in 2020 .
This was a very anticipated read for me and did not disappoint one bit .
How to sell it without spoiling it ? You want mafia , secrets , and unexpected love and unexpected plot ? This is your book ❤️.
I loved it , captivated by it from start to finish !! 5 out of 5 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
September 21, 2023
Mafia / Secret Organizations / Cartel / Criminals / Hot Brothers ... and a love story and secret romance tangled in time. Who wouldn't want to read this?
This is the long awaited story of Tillie and Santo. I honestly can't say more than that without ruining the surprise or potentially exposing the small easter eggs scattered in the previous Red Cage books. But what I can say is that I loved it. From start to finish I was there for everything. I loved the characters and I loved the world the author created. I never wanted it to end.
I applaud the author for this book as there was a lot of complexity in it, showing us the flip side to events that happened in other books. This was done so well. Like finally being on the other end of the phone and seeing what's going on at that end. Bravo S Ann Cole, Bravo.
Again, this was a beta read. I read it before it's final round of edits and changes.
This is the long awaited story of Tillie and Santo. I honestly can't say more than that without ruining the surprise or potentially exposing the small easter eggs scattered in the previous Red Cage books. But what I can say is that I loved it. From start to finish I was there for everything. I loved the characters and I loved the world the author created. I never wanted it to end.
I applaud the author for this book as there was a lot of complexity in it, showing us the flip side to events that happened in other books. This was done so well. Like finally being on the other end of the phone and seeing what's going on at that end. Bravo S Ann Cole, Bravo.
Again, this was a beta read. I read it before it's final round of edits and changes.
December 2, 2023
Frustrating (contains spoilers)
The premise of the book was intriguing (young man living a double life meeting a teenage girl). Santo “Guy “ was a very intriguing and endearing character. Unfortunately Tillie was so unbelievably selfish it made it hard to enjoy the book at times. Yes Santo had insecurities rooted in his childhood, however Tillie was manipulative and chief gaslighter. At first she only wanted to play with Santo and then she wanted a flatterer instead of a man. A perfect example was how she behaved after their first sexual encounter. She knew how important that was for him, but she wanted what she wanted. Afterwards she wanted a puppy and as she didn’t get it she decided to sleep around instead of trying to understand and get closer to Santo. Given how he felt about purity and trust, it was obvious that her promiscuity would mean to him that she wasn’t ready. I also didn’t find her recklessness endearing. Again given who Santo was , I would expect her to know when to back down or at least train constantly to be able to defend herself. Making a bit more of an effort to be a refuge for him instead of just taking like everyone else.
The book would have benefited from more conversations with Adamo to humanize Santo and give us more details on his Don persona.
Lastly Santo was supposed to be the crown to Thorin but we never read about them in a delicate situation. Basically I couldn’t feel their closeness and because of that the book lacked depth. As forTillie’s other brothers, they were awful. After what they did to Santo they deserved to be punished. Cuting friendship ties wasn’t enough.
The premise of the book was intriguing (young man living a double life meeting a teenage girl). Santo “Guy “ was a very intriguing and endearing character. Unfortunately Tillie was so unbelievably selfish it made it hard to enjoy the book at times. Yes Santo had insecurities rooted in his childhood, however Tillie was manipulative and chief gaslighter. At first she only wanted to play with Santo and then she wanted a flatterer instead of a man. A perfect example was how she behaved after their first sexual encounter. She knew how important that was for him, but she wanted what she wanted. Afterwards she wanted a puppy and as she didn’t get it she decided to sleep around instead of trying to understand and get closer to Santo. Given how he felt about purity and trust, it was obvious that her promiscuity would mean to him that she wasn’t ready. I also didn’t find her recklessness endearing. Again given who Santo was , I would expect her to know when to back down or at least train constantly to be able to defend herself. Making a bit more of an effort to be a refuge for him instead of just taking like everyone else.
The book would have benefited from more conversations with Adamo to humanize Santo and give us more details on his Don persona.
Lastly Santo was supposed to be the crown to Thorin but we never read about them in a delicate situation. Basically I couldn’t feel their closeness and because of that the book lacked depth. As forTillie’s other brothers, they were awful. After what they did to Santo they deserved to be punished. Cuting friendship ties wasn’t enough.
November 16, 2023
While reading the first chapter, I thought this book just wasn’t going to be for me. Boy was I wrong! First of all, the “always in the present” of the book was great! I loved reading it that way. It was written so well. I couldn’t put it down, reading chapter after chapter to find out what happened between the characters! If you don’t mind mafia/mob content and love a spicy romance novel, this book is for you!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2023
This is Book 5 of The Red Cage Series
This book was quite a roller-coaster ride of drama, deceit, angst a bit of steam and loads of twists and turns.
Santo and Tilly's ride to a HEA spanned many years and was so complicated by Santo's double life.
Loads of times I got frustrated at the lead characters actions. And Tilly's brothers and their actions just about did me in. But Santo's speech to them afterwards I loved in one hand..but was so sad for him as well. Justified 100%
But Santo and Tilly get their HEA of course.
Great Read and quite the journey of a book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was quite a roller-coaster ride of drama, deceit, angst a bit of steam and loads of twists and turns.
Santo and Tilly's ride to a HEA spanned many years and was so complicated by Santo's double life.
Loads of times I got frustrated at the lead characters actions. And Tilly's brothers and their actions just about did me in. But Santo's speech to them afterwards I loved in one hand..but was so sad for him as well. Justified 100%
But Santo and Tilly get their HEA of course.
Great Read and quite the journey of a book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2023
Tillie finally gets her story! Life with overly protective brothers has proven to be quite difficult for her. But her protector is Guy, as in IT Guy. One of the problems is that he works for her brother Torin. The other problem, he is also Santo/Saint and has a secret life. Leading a double life proves difficult at times. Guy/Santo/Saint is a protector of all around him. He has put his family on a legitimate path, but some members want to take it back to the dark side. Overall, a good story and possibly completion to this series. It took me a long time to warm up to Tillie which is why 4 versus 5 stars. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 2, 2024
MMC/FMC- Santo and Tillie
Genre- Mafia Romance
Heat- ☢️☢️☢️☢️☢️. Will talk more about this below.
Series? Y
Safety? N- a minor character is S.A.’d.
Triggers- S.A., Language in Two Languages, Explicit Erotic Content.
Tropes- this book wasn’t very trope-y, or not tropes that I have a name for. It’s pretty original.
What I thought:
What I liked- the originality of the story. Both main characters are interesting and layered. That the author was not afraid to make the heroine more sexually experienced than the hero without shaming either.
What I didn’t- not gonna lie, I almost DNF’d this at first because it started with the triggers right from the get go. But I decided to give it another shot and I am so glad I did.
What I want to talk about- the zexytime! Nuclear hot, even before they ever did the deed. The kissing alone, oh my! There was also mild knife play and plenty of visits to Australia. Altogether very satisfying.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Genre- Mafia Romance
Heat- ☢️☢️☢️☢️☢️. Will talk more about this below.
Series? Y
Safety? N- a minor character is S.A.’d.
Triggers- S.A., Language in Two Languages, Explicit Erotic Content.
Tropes- this book wasn’t very trope-y, or not tropes that I have a name for. It’s pretty original.
What I thought:
What I liked- the originality of the story. Both main characters are interesting and layered. That the author was not afraid to make the heroine more sexually experienced than the hero without shaming either.
What I didn’t- not gonna lie, I almost DNF’d this at first because it started with the triggers right from the get go. But I decided to give it another shot and I am so glad I did.
What I want to talk about- the zexytime! Nuclear hot, even before they ever did the deed. The kissing alone, oh my! There was also mild knife play and plenty of visits to Australia. Altogether very satisfying.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 22, 2023
This was a really good book. It was my first read by this writer and I absolutely appreciated the reminder section at the beginning because it included introductory information on the family and their backgrounds enough that I was able to enjoy this book.
Saint and Tillie had a solid but confusing relationship. While she came off as a brat and he aloof, you could tell that he was holding back for something significant before going all in… it just wasn't clear what that would be. When he finally gave in I was happy for him and annoyed that Tillie took so long to get her act together.
I was a little thrown off by the timeline seeing as how the previous book was about Sunny but it wasn't really a big deal. Not sure if there will be more about this group but I would love to see if they can repair the relationship with the brothers and Saint and just what life at redcage is now like.
Saint and Tillie had a solid but confusing relationship. While she came off as a brat and he aloof, you could tell that he was holding back for something significant before going all in… it just wasn't clear what that would be. When he finally gave in I was happy for him and annoyed that Tillie took so long to get her act together.
I was a little thrown off by the timeline seeing as how the previous book was about Sunny but it wasn't really a big deal. Not sure if there will be more about this group but I would love to see if they can repair the relationship with the brothers and Saint and just what life at redcage is now like.
November 28, 2023
maybe more like 2.5 stars.
The first roughly 40% dragged on and on. Maybe it is because I didn't read any of the previous books but I did not connect or understand the fmc. She is just a spoiled and stubborn princess who doesn't like to be called out on her behaviour. There is this lingering warmth after an accidental touch and the electricity in the air. Sorry I associate something like that with fantasy.
When the plot picks up it is well written and I really wanted to like it but then there are events that influence Tillie and these are just mentioned in passing. Like Sunny's "situation", that killed it for me.
If you like obsessed mcs, on and off relationship, a stubborn but weak fmc and just a little action this is for you.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review *
The first roughly 40% dragged on and on. Maybe it is because I didn't read any of the previous books but I did not connect or understand the fmc. She is just a spoiled and stubborn princess who doesn't like to be called out on her behaviour. There is this lingering warmth after an accidental touch and the electricity in the air. Sorry I associate something like that with fantasy.
When the plot picks up it is well written and I really wanted to like it but then there are events that influence Tillie and these are just mentioned in passing. Like Sunny's "situation", that killed it for me.
If you like obsessed mcs, on and off relationship, a stubborn but weak fmc and just a little action this is for you.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review *
December 22, 2023
So first off I reread all 4 brothers books, which isnt needed but helped me understand Guy and Tillie. Secondly, I really disliked Tillie to begin with, she was flighty, bratty and selfish, but being the last child and a girl in ahouse full of boys I guess the princess attitude won. Guy was definitely easier to like but then he wasnt. I didnt like the backwarda and forwards l, push pull or the relationship but understand their reasonings it just got frustrating. Ultimately the ending was perfect and made up for the frustrations throughout the book so well worth the read. I enjoyed it and would recommend reading the whole series x I recieved this as an ARC and am giving an honest review.
January 9, 2024
Absolutely Loved…
It has taken me several tries to find adequate words, that will or can describe this Book.
This is one of those books that once you start reading, you can’t just simply put it down.
Tillie and Santo are that kind of couple whose chemistry will pull you in and keep you soo into their story, you forget the dryer stopped…lol.
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this book, and the ENTIRE Series.
Any opinions, recommendations, or suggestions expressed within this review are solely and uniquely made by me. I originally and voluntarily received an advanced copy of this book via Bsprout.
It has taken me several tries to find adequate words, that will or can describe this Book.
This is one of those books that once you start reading, you can’t just simply put it down.
Tillie and Santo are that kind of couple whose chemistry will pull you in and keep you soo into their story, you forget the dryer stopped…lol.
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this book, and the ENTIRE Series.
Any opinions, recommendations, or suggestions expressed within this review are solely and uniquely made by me. I originally and voluntarily received an advanced copy of this book via Bsprout.
November 30, 2023
I’ve been waiting patiently for Tillie’s book! And I was so happy to receive an Arc so I could read it asap.
It was not what I was expecting but was a great read. Tillie and Guy/Saint/Santo’s story spanned over many years. The time jumps flowed well and I liked that it was all in the present rather than jumping back and forth.
Sad that the Garza’s are done now, but I can’t wait for Lorenzo and Stefano’s stories!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was not what I was expecting but was a great read. Tillie and Guy/Saint/Santo’s story spanned over many years. The time jumps flowed well and I liked that it was all in the present rather than jumping back and forth.
Sad that the Garza’s are done now, but I can’t wait for Lorenzo and Stefano’s stories!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 10, 2023
The Crowned Garza was a wonderfully written book!! Actually, the entire series is fantastic! I’ve been looking forward to reading this story and it did not leave readers disappointed! If you haven't read the series, make sure you grab the previous books after you’ve read this! Looking forward to reading more from this author!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2023
This book blew my mind, this is the first one I will be reading from this Author, and wow its amazing. I went through all the emotions with them, I really loved their love, and if you love some steam, you will enjoy this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 19, 2023
Tillie had always been wery of the man the Guy Santo who her brothers trusted with their lives but what hides behd his mysterious facade? well written a great addition to the series, engaign captivating, steamy action and more
December 11, 2023
Santos and Tillie have quite the rollercoaster ride of a story. There are many ups and downs with them. It is steamy and emotional at times. I will say that I wasn't a big fan of Tillie, but overall I did enjoyed Tillie and Santos' story as a whole.
December 13, 2023
couldn’t wait for it- did not disappoint!
I’m so happy to have read this series. I will likely be rereading it. This book plot and timeline was so thoughtful and poignant. This was a great story.
I’m so happy to have read this series. I will likely be rereading it. This book plot and timeline was so thoughtful and poignant. This was a great story.
November 30, 2023
***ARC Review***
Tillie and Guy are an amazing couple and their story was fascinating! The twists and turns this story went through had me hanging on through the end. Absolutely fantastic!
Tillie and Guy are an amazing couple and their story was fascinating! The twists and turns this story went through had me hanging on through the end. Absolutely fantastic!
November 22, 2024
awesome read
This book was so entertaining I loved the way all the characters came into play Guy was my favorite in this series so versatile and venerable
This book was so entertaining I loved the way all the characters came into play Guy was my favorite in this series so versatile and venerable
December 1, 2023
This is a Romantic Suspense with some Mafia some, and this is the 5th book in the Red Cage series. I have read the first four books in this series before picking up this book. I have been wanting to know more about Guy from the first book, and I am so happy we got his story. This book was one of those books I picked up and I just cannot put it down until I finish it. I loved the guy's character so much. This story had me pulled into it so fast, and wow there are some really steamy times in this book. The only thing I wish was different in this book is that I got more points of view from Guy. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
December 5, 2023
OH MY WORD !!! Oh my my ..... Mr Guy !!! Who knew ...I cannot wait for this book to be released so I can read it again and then do a real REVIEW !!
But this book ..oh Lord ...never would have imagined the turn this Red Cage saga took ..The Crown ...our guy !! And Miss Tillie ..oh what a riot !! a spitfire !! A Badass baddd gyal !!!! May even venture to say crazy :) :) :) Cannot even fathom that this is the first time I realised the real Mafia influence in Red Cage and the Garzas, always left that to Stephano and Lorenzo, but ..wowww !!! wowww !!
Cannot say more now as I got a free Advanced Reader's Copy from our beloved Ms Cole and I am leaving my most honest Review here. No Spoilers so pleaseeee people ..if you have not pre-ordered your copy PLEASE DO SO NOW !!
And while you waiting if you have not read the Red Cage Series. Please start immediately !!
1) The Right Garza-Trent
2) The Bronze Garza - Torin ..OOh la la ..hotttt hottt story !!
3) The True Garza - True
4) The Golden Garza - my fave my Trippy golden locks boy :) :) :)
But this book ..oh Lord ...never would have imagined the turn this Red Cage saga took ..The Crown ...our guy !! And Miss Tillie ..oh what a riot !! a spitfire !! A Badass baddd gyal !!!! May even venture to say crazy :) :) :) Cannot even fathom that this is the first time I realised the real Mafia influence in Red Cage and the Garzas, always left that to Stephano and Lorenzo, but ..wowww !!! wowww !!
Cannot say more now as I got a free Advanced Reader's Copy from our beloved Ms Cole and I am leaving my most honest Review here. No Spoilers so pleaseeee people ..if you have not pre-ordered your copy PLEASE DO SO NOW !!
And while you waiting if you have not read the Red Cage Series. Please start immediately !!
1) The Right Garza-Trent
2) The Bronze Garza - Torin ..OOh la la ..hotttt hottt story !!
3) The True Garza - True
4) The Golden Garza - my fave my Trippy golden locks boy :) :) :)
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews