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Unlawful Men #2
The Enigma
A fatal blend of revenge and desire.
After leaving her fiancé at the altar and quitting her job as a Miami cop, Beau Hayley stumbles through life, feeling only resentment. Injustice. Loss. Her mom’s death was called an accident. She’s not convinced. Grieving, she becomes numb to everything except the constant, biting pain of heartbreak and hate. She can see no light. Until she meets James Kelly, a man who seems as damaged as she is, inside and out. And yet despite his twisted, cold façade, he stimulates feelings. Pleasure. He is a respite from her own flaws. A complete mystery.
And impossible to resist.
James Kelly has only one objective. Find the men who murdered his family and kill them all very slowly. But the web of crime and deceit leads him to Beau Hayley, the daughter of the notorious detective who pursued him relentlessly until her death. Beau is not what James expected, and past the darkness that shrouds her, he finds a glimmer of light. Light is addictive. An escape. Beau might be the key to James’s mercy mission, but with dire consequences. So he has to decide—leave her breathing and risk exposing himself, or kill her and continue his mission, still unknown.
Still The Enigma
Two tortured souls playing one deadly game. But who will survive?
After leaving her fiancé at the altar and quitting her job as a Miami cop, Beau Hayley stumbles through life, feeling only resentment. Injustice. Loss. Her mom’s death was called an accident. She’s not convinced. Grieving, she becomes numb to everything except the constant, biting pain of heartbreak and hate. She can see no light. Until she meets James Kelly, a man who seems as damaged as she is, inside and out. And yet despite his twisted, cold façade, he stimulates feelings. Pleasure. He is a respite from her own flaws. A complete mystery.
And impossible to resist.
James Kelly has only one objective. Find the men who murdered his family and kill them all very slowly. But the web of crime and deceit leads him to Beau Hayley, the daughter of the notorious detective who pursued him relentlessly until her death. Beau is not what James expected, and past the darkness that shrouds her, he finds a glimmer of light. Light is addictive. An escape. Beau might be the key to James’s mercy mission, but with dire consequences. So he has to decide—leave her breathing and risk exposing himself, or kill her and continue his mission, still unknown.
Still The Enigma
Two tortured souls playing one deadly game. But who will survive?
514 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2021
992 people are currently reading
4754 people want to read
About the author
Jodi Ellen Malpas
53 books20.3k followers#1 New York Times & Sunday Times Bestselling Author Jodi Ellen Malpas was born and raised in England, where she lives with her husband, her boys, and Theo the Doberman.
Writing powerful love stories with fierce, memorable characters is her passion – a passion that has taken her on an amazing journey into the world of romantic fiction. Her work is now published in more than twenty-six languages across the world.
Jodi's next release: The Invitation. Check it out on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
Writing powerful love stories with fierce, memorable characters is her passion – a passion that has taken her on an amazing journey into the world of romantic fiction. Her work is now published in more than twenty-six languages across the world.
Jodi's next release: The Invitation. Check it out on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 632 reviews
December 12, 2021
jodi’s ability to always cure my book slump should be studied. its funny how it’s the third time her book brought me out of a slump just to put me back there. jodi… this ain’t gonna work i need the next book now ma’am!!!
October 24, 2025
This one was a slower start for me compared to the first, so I was hoping it would get better for me, but it didn’t. In fact, it got worse.
I felt absolutely no chemistry between the 2. The plot was very repetitive and lacking. The spicy scenes weren’t great at all in my opinion. Too much of Beau’s point of view and not enough of James’ throughout most of the book. Not enough plot lines for a book that long.
Very disappointing compared to the 1st which I loved.
I felt absolutely no chemistry between the 2. The plot was very repetitive and lacking. The spicy scenes weren’t great at all in my opinion. Too much of Beau’s point of view and not enough of James’ throughout most of the book. Not enough plot lines for a book that long.
Very disappointing compared to the 1st which I loved.
November 16, 2021
3.75🌟
First i need to say that this is not a standalone. Doesn't end on a clifhanger but the storyline is not finished and it interconnects with The Brit, so idk who's pov the final book is gonna be yet.🙄
I liked The Enigma more expecially the first half. I even stayed up past 2pm bc i couldn't put it down but the second half was really dragged and then i realised that it will continue in the next book so i got really mad and i'm cursing myself for being like a zombie today😂.
James Kelly or The Enigma is a on a revenge path killing everyone who accociates with the man known as Bear who killed his whole family.
Revenge. Peace. Death.
“There’ll always be people to kill."
Beau Hayley was on top of her class ready to start her job as an FBI agent following the footsteps of her mother, ready to get married when one day her mom is killed in a car explosion and Beau is left scarred physically and emotionally. She quits the force, leaves her fiance at the altair after her mom's death is ruled an accident and becomes a shell of a person she was, just existing and not living.
"I’m trapped—trapped in a world that doesn’t make sense to me anymore. Trapped in a body I can’t even look at.Trapped with feelings that blur and blend into nothing. Happiness is a forgotten emotion."
James was obsessed with her from the beginning and then in the end we find out why👀 which was not really surprising imo.
“Hi, it’s me.”
“Hi, me,” I say, rolling my eyes.
“I have a few things I need.”
I raise my eyebrows. I mean, who is this guy? “Your wish is my command.”
“Sorry?”
“Anything you so desire.”
What would sir like? A diamond for his girlfriend? A case of champagne? A few whips for the upcoming orgy?”
What starts as a plan to kill her soon turns into a sexual relationship between James and Beau (the sex scenes were so hot and steamy btw🥵🙈) when they can't get enough of each other.
"But as I stare at the woman beside me, her skin still damp, her screams of ecstasy still ringing in my ears, I feel no hate. I feel only purpose. I see a lost soul who’s fighting to navigate this world. I see desperation to escape."
Their relationship was just sexual without asking questions so after a while i started getting irritated bc they will have sex, then James will say something wanting to open up and tell her the truth but Beau will get scared (and she was so stubborn!! )so she will run away. Rinse and repeat.
She finally learned the truth in the last 30% when the storyline finally picked up. That's why the first and the last half were more interesting and the middle was just a filler of Beau trying to overcome her fears, having some bdsm action with James and run away. Also i wished that the pregnancy was not written so that James would include her more in his revenge plans than treating her like an incompetent and her nickname used to be Lara Croft🙄 so i wished we could actually see that. And her uncle Lawrence/aunt Zinnea really REALLY annoyed me.😡
There were some big twist and turns some of then predictable some of them took me totally by surprise and i really can't wait to find out who is The Bear.👀
“I’ve fought for power, Beau,” I whisper. “I’ve fought for freedom. For revenge. For hatred. But I’ve never fought for love.” And it’s the toughest fucking battle yet. “Can I win?”
First i need to say that this is not a standalone. Doesn't end on a clifhanger but the storyline is not finished and it interconnects with The Brit, so idk who's pov the final book is gonna be yet.🙄
I liked The Enigma more expecially the first half. I even stayed up past 2pm bc i couldn't put it down but the second half was really dragged and then i realised that it will continue in the next book so i got really mad and i'm cursing myself for being like a zombie today😂.
James Kelly or The Enigma is a on a revenge path killing everyone who accociates with the man known as Bear who killed his whole family.
Revenge. Peace. Death.
“There’ll always be people to kill."
Beau Hayley was on top of her class ready to start her job as an FBI agent following the footsteps of her mother, ready to get married when one day her mom is killed in a car explosion and Beau is left scarred physically and emotionally. She quits the force, leaves her fiance at the altair after her mom's death is ruled an accident and becomes a shell of a person she was, just existing and not living.
"I’m trapped—trapped in a world that doesn’t make sense to me anymore. Trapped in a body I can’t even look at.Trapped with feelings that blur and blend into nothing. Happiness is a forgotten emotion."
James was obsessed with her from the beginning and then in the end we find out why👀 which was not really surprising imo.
“Hi, it’s me.”
“Hi, me,” I say, rolling my eyes.
“I have a few things I need.”
I raise my eyebrows. I mean, who is this guy? “Your wish is my command.”
“Sorry?”
“Anything you so desire.”
What would sir like? A diamond for his girlfriend? A case of champagne? A few whips for the upcoming orgy?”
What starts as a plan to kill her soon turns into a sexual relationship between James and Beau (the sex scenes were so hot and steamy btw🥵🙈) when they can't get enough of each other.
"But as I stare at the woman beside me, her skin still damp, her screams of ecstasy still ringing in my ears, I feel no hate. I feel only purpose. I see a lost soul who’s fighting to navigate this world. I see desperation to escape."
Their relationship was just sexual without asking questions so after a while i started getting irritated bc they will have sex, then James will say something wanting to open up and tell her the truth but Beau will get scared (and she was so stubborn!! )so she will run away. Rinse and repeat.
She finally learned the truth in the last 30% when the storyline finally picked up. That's why the first and the last half were more interesting and the middle was just a filler of Beau trying to overcome her fears, having some bdsm action with James and run away. Also i wished that the pregnancy was not written so that James would include her more in his revenge plans than treating her like an incompetent and her nickname used to be Lara Croft🙄 so i wished we could actually see that. And her uncle Lawrence/aunt Zinnea really REALLY annoyed me.😡
There were some big twist and turns some of then predictable some of them took me totally by surprise and i really can't wait to find out who is The Bear.👀
“I’ve fought for power, Beau,” I whisper. “I’ve fought for freedom. For revenge. For hatred. But I’ve never fought for love.” And it’s the toughest fucking battle yet. “Can I win?”
Read
December 13, 2021Main characters had a lot of issues that didn’t manage to hold my interest. Dnf @ 28%.
November 18, 2021
Beau + James
James came to Miami for revenge.
Back home in England some crime lord called The Bear was responsible for burning down his family home - killing everyone! And now he has a list of names, people he has to kill, people connected to The Bear.
Beau used to be a cop. Then her cop mom was killed in front of her and life hasn't been the same since. She can't accept that it was an accident. And physically and mentally she's also not back to where she used to be.
Insta attraction/connection between our two darlings ... but there are so many secrets between them!
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN ... ☺
WHAT WILL HAPPEN WITH BEAU + JAMES?
WILL THERE BE A HAPPILY EVER AFTER?
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT ☺
════════════════
PHEW! 🔥
I really loved reading this!
Yes, it was a bit dark and murdery, but it was also very heartbreaking and adorable and sweet and sexxxay!
Beau and James are just so perfect for each other. But of course they're also kinda on opposite sides of the law. But Beau is not a cop anymore, and she wants revenge for her mom too.
It was a really sweet romance, even though we have so much darkness and murder and porn and pain ... 🤣
Those two need each other to heal - no one else would understand what they've been through.
I just loved reading this... there were a few slow moments here and there, but the end made up for everything with all that excitement!
I can't wait to read book three in January!
For everyone who has read and loved The Brit ... get ready for some Resurrection! 😎
Wouldn't mind getting a Miami-based TV show out of those books!
Oh - tiny little complaining rant - it's one of my book weirdnesses. The British thing. Jodi is British. Our hero is British. All perfectly fine. BUT... our heroine is not British. So I would've wished for an American editor to fix all of Beau's British words and expressions - and there are a lot! But don't worry, I'm the only one bothered by that!
THE ENIGMA was a very exciting and mysterious and heartbreaking and erotic romantic suspense love story! Run to your nearest amazon for your own James - this one is MINE! ☺
💜
💜
November 27, 2021
Another smashing read from one of my favourite author.
The Enigma just exudes revenge, desire, suspense and intrigue..I’m all for it! JEM just knows how to write ridiculously good couples and Beau & James’s storyline was a page turner for sure. I know I always say this but there is something about the way JEM writes her books, it just grabs my attention and I get completely swept away by it. The Enigma is no different, I was drawn to the power, the darkness, the romance had me swooning and the thrill of it all… perfect. Can I just say something? JEM and her possessive heroes are PERFECTION.
If you haven’t read The Enigma yet… GRAB👏🏼 IT👏🏼NOW👏🏼
The Enigma just exudes revenge, desire, suspense and intrigue..I’m all for it! JEM just knows how to write ridiculously good couples and Beau & James’s storyline was a page turner for sure. I know I always say this but there is something about the way JEM writes her books, it just grabs my attention and I get completely swept away by it. The Enigma is no different, I was drawn to the power, the darkness, the romance had me swooning and the thrill of it all… perfect. Can I just say something? JEM and her possessive heroes are PERFECTION.
If you haven’t read The Enigma yet… GRAB👏🏼 IT👏🏼NOW👏🏼
October 29, 2024
It's so much harder to write a review for books you love because you don't want to say too much, or you might ruin the experience for others. And girl do I love this book (and series).
Beau Hayley (ex-cop, FBI prospect, annoyingly independent) is devastated after her famous cop mom dies in an explosion (which also injures Beau). The cops claim it was an accident, but Beau is convinced she was murdered, and she refuses to move on until she gets justice for her mom. Beau has left her fiancé at the altar, quit her job, and moved in with her uncle Lawrence (stage name, Zennia) and his/her husband, Dexter (cop) because she can't move past her grief/need for justice. Stuff happens and she ends up at the house of The Enigma.
James Kelly (sexy assassin) is out for revenge after his entire family was murdered at the hands of The Bear. He hasn't been able to identify him yet, so in the meantime he's taking out all the killers/crooks who work for him, with the help of his two partners in crime, Otto and Goldie. James is completely infatuated with Beau, despite knowing he shouldn't be. They've both experienced unfathomable pain and they figure out that they each are a balm on the soul of the other. There are a lot of revelations and some of them I did not see coming. The shocks took me out!!! The identity of The Bear isn't discovered in this book - but James & Beau get a HFN.
This is one of my favorite action/mystery/sexy times series. This one seems like it starts a little slowly, but honestly, I ended up liking the pace things went. If you're a little bored in the beginning, don't give up. It's really hard to find sexy, murdering men who have females who aren't damsels in distress. These women definitely hold their own - that said - towards the end, Beau becomes one of those "I'm fine" girls.
I like all of the characters in this one and how they worked within their roles. The book is really long, but all of JEM's books are.
AUDIO I read the book the first time, and now that I've listened to the audio, I realize I missed some things when I read it. When I'm reading and get to super exciting parts, I accidently miss words because I'm reading so fast. The audio let me catch everything. The narrators are also really great. John Hartley has a great voice for The Enigma, but his female voices aren't great. Emma Wilder is an excellent narrator, and her male voice is HOT. In this instance, I wouldn't have minded if she had narrated the entire book!!!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS SERIES. Also, the fabulousness continues in the next book - which brings Danny & Rose together with Beau & James. Talk about power couples!!!
Beau Hayley (ex-cop, FBI prospect, annoyingly independent) is devastated after her famous cop mom dies in an explosion (which also injures Beau). The cops claim it was an accident, but Beau is convinced she was murdered, and she refuses to move on until she gets justice for her mom. Beau has left her fiancé at the altar, quit her job, and moved in with her uncle Lawrence (stage name, Zennia) and his/her husband, Dexter (cop) because she can't move past her grief/need for justice. Stuff happens and she ends up at the house of The Enigma.
James Kelly (sexy assassin) is out for revenge after his entire family was murdered at the hands of The Bear. He hasn't been able to identify him yet, so in the meantime he's taking out all the killers/crooks who work for him, with the help of his two partners in crime, Otto and Goldie. James is completely infatuated with Beau, despite knowing he shouldn't be. They've both experienced unfathomable pain and they figure out that they each are a balm on the soul of the other. There are a lot of revelations and some of them I did not see coming. The shocks took me out!!! The identity of The Bear isn't discovered in this book - but James & Beau get a HFN.
This is one of my favorite action/mystery/sexy times series. This one seems like it starts a little slowly, but honestly, I ended up liking the pace things went. If you're a little bored in the beginning, don't give up. It's really hard to find sexy, murdering men who have females who aren't damsels in distress. These women definitely hold their own - that said - towards the end, Beau becomes one of those "I'm fine" girls.
I like all of the characters in this one and how they worked within their roles. The book is really long, but all of JEM's books are.
AUDIO I read the book the first time, and now that I've listened to the audio, I realize I missed some things when I read it. When I'm reading and get to super exciting parts, I accidently miss words because I'm reading so fast. The audio let me catch everything. The narrators are also really great. John Hartley has a great voice for The Enigma, but his female voices aren't great. Emma Wilder is an excellent narrator, and her male voice is HOT. In this instance, I wouldn't have minded if she had narrated the entire book!!!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS SERIES. Also, the fabulousness continues in the next book - which brings Danny & Rose together with Beau & James. Talk about power couples!!!
February 6, 2022
4 STARS!
This series is DEFINITELY my favorite ever from this author! Another book by her that I inhaled in less than 24 hours and stayed up way to late to finish. I HAD to know how it ended!
Definitely read The Brit first, as characters from that book are in this one...that and it's an awesome book so you should just read it anyway.
James Kelly (aka The Enigma) is a on a revenge path, eliminating everyone who associates with the man known as Bear who killed James's whole family.
Beau Hayley was on top of her class, prepared to start her job as an FBI agent following the footsteps of her mother. She was also ready to get married when one day, her mom was killed in a car explosion and Beau is left scarred physically and emotionally.
What begins as a ploy for revenge turns into an explosive relationship that seriously burned up my Kindle. These two were on fire and could not get enough of each other.
I was desperate for them to finally get some things out in the open, which in the last 30% or so, all of that happens and then I REALLY couldn't put it down.
All in all, this is a riveting series and a must-read for fans of mafia romance. I cannot wait for The Resurrection!
This series is DEFINITELY my favorite ever from this author! Another book by her that I inhaled in less than 24 hours and stayed up way to late to finish. I HAD to know how it ended!
“I’ve fought for power, Beau I’ve fought for freedom. For revenge. For hatred. But I’ve never fought for love.”
Definitely read The Brit first, as characters from that book are in this one...that and it's an awesome book so you should just read it anyway.
James Kelly (aka The Enigma) is a on a revenge path, eliminating everyone who associates with the man known as Bear who killed James's whole family.
Revenge. Peace. Death.
“There’ll always be people to kill."
Beau Hayley was on top of her class, prepared to start her job as an FBI agent following the footsteps of her mother. She was also ready to get married when one day, her mom was killed in a car explosion and Beau is left scarred physically and emotionally.
What begins as a ploy for revenge turns into an explosive relationship that seriously burned up my Kindle. These two were on fire and could not get enough of each other.
I was desperate for them to finally get some things out in the open, which in the last 30% or so, all of that happens and then I REALLY couldn't put it down.
All in all, this is a riveting series and a must-read for fans of mafia romance. I cannot wait for The Resurrection!
“She's toxic. But to me, she's a balm. And I'm fatal. But to her, I'm life."
December 24, 2022
#1 The Brit — 3.75 stars
#2 The Enigma — 2.75 stars
im no fan of romance that develops through repeated “no strings attached” sexual encounters between the main characters, so its no surprise that i didnt like this as much as the previous book.
the situation with James & Beau was somewhat similar to Danny & Rose (The Brit) in a way that James was exactly like Rose. they were withholding information from their counterparts. while i didnt mind it in book 1 cause i rather enjoyed seeing Danny dodging one bullet after another. it was frustrating in this book because unlike Rose, James actually wanted to come clean and tell Beau everything. but Beau was just so freakin stubborn, she kept stopping James from telling her even though she had no clue of what he was going to say.
the cycle of what i said above plus the fucking was all that happened for 70% of the book. other than the last 30%, i cant quite recall what the redeeming qualities of this book are. so the rating might seem a bit generous.
(read as an audiobook)
#2 The Enigma — 2.75 stars
im no fan of romance that develops through repeated “no strings attached” sexual encounters between the main characters, so its no surprise that i didnt like this as much as the previous book.
the situation with James & Beau was somewhat similar to Danny & Rose (The Brit) in a way that James was exactly like Rose. they were withholding information from their counterparts. while i didnt mind it in book 1 cause i rather enjoyed seeing Danny dodging one bullet after another. it was frustrating in this book because unlike Rose, James actually wanted to come clean and tell Beau everything. but Beau was just so freakin stubborn, she kept stopping James from telling her even though she had no clue of what he was going to say.
the cycle of what i said above plus the fucking was all that happened for 70% of the book. other than the last 30%, i cant quite recall what the redeeming qualities of this book are. so the rating might seem a bit generous.
(read as an audiobook)
November 14, 2021
**SPOILER-FREE REVIEW**
“I’ve fought for power, Beau I’ve fought for freedom. For revenge. For hatred. But I’ve never fought for love.”
Wow….this series is absolutely RIVETING. Hands down our favourite by Jodi Ellen Malpas after the This Man Series. Brilliantly written, with an emphasis on suspense and passion in equal measure. The Enigma was captivating, thrilling, dark, erotic, and completely unputdownable. So well written, with a focus on strong character connection. We highly recommend that if you haven’t read The Brit yet, pick it up and immerse yourself in the dark world of crime, violence, retribution, and fierce love, then move on to The Enigma. This series needs to be read in order. For readers of dark romance, anti-heroes, and strong heroines, this is definitely a series to add to your reading lists!
‘Who are you James Kelly? And how can you hold me captive with curiosity I know is dangerous?’
‘He was arctic cold. Unfriendly. Spellbinding. Darkness entices darkness.’
‘He is the most beautifully dark thing I have ever seen.’
Beau and James’s story felt original and, in our opinion, showed just how much this author has developed in her writing. Fresh, fierce, and suspenseful; The Brit was just the beginning, and The Enigma took it to a whole new level. These characters stole our breath and our hearts. The atmosphere was so emotionally raw, angsty, and powerful through the agonizing broken darkness in both Beau and James. Their chemistry was explosive, as were their individual stories. When they came together it was utterly heart-breaking yet exhilarating too. Their connection profound. Their chemistry on fire!
‘…Beau sees me. Even if she doesn’t know what she’s looking at.’
‘She’s toxic. But to me, she’s a balm. And I’m fatal. But to her, I’m life.’
What we absolutely loved was the character development and the way in which their storyline unfolded. It packed such a powerful punch! Without any unnecessary and repetitive internal monologue faff from Beau, this made her one of our all-time favourite heroines by this Author. And James, oh my….what a man! Never mind freezer time, we’d need an ice bath to cool down reading this book. We do love our kink and Jodi Ellen Malpas did a stellar job here with James Kelly!
‘Love and hate. I couldn’t stop loving this man if I tried, no matter who he is. And I couldn’t stop hating the world if my life depended on it. But I can do both. Love and hate.’
The Enigma is edge of your seat reading and -wow- we were kept guessing and holding our breath at the twists and turns we had to take on this HOT and explosive ride. Bravo, Jodi Ellen Malpas, you absolutely NAILED IT!
‘Amid the chaotic, loud crashing of our bodies together, there is silence. Her eyes. My eyes. Her thoughts. My thoughts. Her heart. My heart. Her darkness. My darkness. Her demons diluted by mine. And mine by hers.’
Ebook
Paperback
Hardcover
November 12, 2021
Intensely gripping romantic thriller which turns and twists like a serpent in distress. Bulging with dark fantasies, this story balances on razor's edge of sensuality and menace, both heightening the senses of the readers and mositening their panties!!!
Jodi tentatively steps into the shadowy world of mafia romance and conquers it very successfully. Passions explode, danger follows and soon two damaged souls - James Kelly and Beau Haley are caught in an irresistible web of lust, the volcanic love threatens to set the pages on fire!!
Enigmatic plotting is the X factor of this series so far. The Brit hooked my interest and it is delving deeper in this mystic & hypnotic cast of characters.
It goes without saying that this brazen robe suits Jodi's personality real well.
Back to the story. Beau is suffering from incinerating past accidents, both physically and emotionally.
"I wheeze, my mind now an abyss of unbearable memories, my throat feeling like it’s clogged with smoke.
Screams.
Cries.
Panic.
Fear.
Pain of unbearable levels."
Her plaguing nightmares keep her on edgy restlessness and despite trying to explore all the nooks and crannies of the complex world of police & FBI, she's not getting the answers she deserves. This offhand dismissals are getting on her nerves cause she knows in her heart of hearts, these were planned and executed on orders of someone hell bent on destroying her.
"He was artic cold. Unfriendly. Spellbinding. Darkness entices darkness."
James is the dweller of house of glass. His outside maybe be transparent but his soul, his secrets, his psyche is shadowed and locked up tight.
He himself is on a Bear Hunt of his own.
These two cross paths and join forces to travel on this quest together.
I have to mention here that the pounding sex has got rougher, intents crazier, alphaness more rugged...and I'M LOVING IT SO HARD!!
I'm still getting shivers and chills down my spine, hours after I've finished. I do see a rainbow on the horizon, but there are dark clouds too looming just beyond, which won't be easy to dissipate.
But I trust jodi to build the momentum in the next book and give us the cataclysmic climax I much crave
4.5 stars for Dolly Daydream!!!
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
Jodi tentatively steps into the shadowy world of mafia romance and conquers it very successfully. Passions explode, danger follows and soon two damaged souls - James Kelly and Beau Haley are caught in an irresistible web of lust, the volcanic love threatens to set the pages on fire!!
Enigmatic plotting is the X factor of this series so far. The Brit hooked my interest and it is delving deeper in this mystic & hypnotic cast of characters.
It goes without saying that this brazen robe suits Jodi's personality real well.
Back to the story. Beau is suffering from incinerating past accidents, both physically and emotionally.
"I wheeze, my mind now an abyss of unbearable memories, my throat feeling like it’s clogged with smoke.
Screams.
Cries.
Panic.
Fear.
Pain of unbearable levels."
Her plaguing nightmares keep her on edgy restlessness and despite trying to explore all the nooks and crannies of the complex world of police & FBI, she's not getting the answers she deserves. This offhand dismissals are getting on her nerves cause she knows in her heart of hearts, these were planned and executed on orders of someone hell bent on destroying her.
"He was artic cold. Unfriendly. Spellbinding. Darkness entices darkness."
James is the dweller of house of glass. His outside maybe be transparent but his soul, his secrets, his psyche is shadowed and locked up tight.
He himself is on a Bear Hunt of his own.
These two cross paths and join forces to travel on this quest together.
I have to mention here that the pounding sex has got rougher, intents crazier, alphaness more rugged...and I'M LOVING IT SO HARD!!
I'm still getting shivers and chills down my spine, hours after I've finished. I do see a rainbow on the horizon, but there are dark clouds too looming just beyond, which won't be easy to dissipate.
But I trust jodi to build the momentum in the next book and give us the cataclysmic climax I much crave
4.5 stars for Dolly Daydream!!!
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
November 18, 2024
Igual que el anterior, historia erótica con toque de suspense.
De hecho la trama de acción/suspense queda sin terminar, asiq hay que leer el siguiente para saber como va a concluir la cosa.
3.5/5*
De hecho la trama de acción/suspense queda sin terminar, asiq hay que leer el siguiente para saber como va a concluir la cosa.
3.5/5*
April 29, 2023
3.5 STARS
However, the sex was HOT and the emotions between these two felt so very genuine.
Plus, that lie James told at the very end was a big one and I'm going to love being witness to the coming fallout. And now that Danny is back from book 1, I'm pretty invested in both of these couples, so I'll have to continue the series, lol.
Perfectly fucked up. Both of us.I really love JEM's writing style, and the premise here was one I could appreciate as a lover of dark romance. But, I think that by the end, Beau and James' story got too convoluted and began tripping over itself. It just wasn't believable.
However, the sex was HOT and the emotions between these two felt so very genuine.
Peace found in intimacy. It's new. Unexpected.And ultimately, it's why I have to round up . . . because what's better than two messed up individuals coming together to heal each other? 😍😍
Plus, that lie James told at the very end was a big one and I'm going to love being witness to the coming fallout. And now that Danny is back from book 1, I'm pretty invested in both of these couples, so I'll have to continue the series, lol.
November 12, 2021
NON SPOILER REVIEW
Enigma….a person or thing that is mysterious or difficult to understand. That is certainly what James Kelly is Jodi Ellen Malpas’ gritty new story.
‘I stare at myself in the reflection. I see them clearly. The devil on one shoulder. An angel on the other. The devil speaks louder. The angel never made it.’
Set in the world of The Brit, although a separate story, I would highly recommend that you read that book first, as they are connected in ways.
Wow, the first 45% of this book was full on intrigue! Again, like the Brit, it didn’t feel like I was reading a Jodi book. It was so gritty, intense and mysterious. It does have a totally different tone to the Brit. Whereas The Brit is full on action from chapter to chapter, the Enigma is more subdued for most part of the book and really focuses on the characters, James and Beau and how they are dealing with the aftermath of tragic events that occurred in their pasts.
James is…well he’s an absolute Enigma, that’s the only way I can describe him. The first meet between him and Beau was completely unexpected, not what die-hard Jodi fans would expect, and I loved it! And let’s talk about the first intimate scene between them, wow!! Definitely the hottest sex scene that Jodi has ever written…James certainly has certain ways in the bedroom!
So hot 🥵
I will say between 45-60% the story did flatline a bit for me and the pace really slowed down. The dialogue too between Beau and James frustrated me at times. It was quite stilted, asking a question, then answering with a question and then not getting anywhere lol I desperately needed something to happen to keep my attention up.…And it did! The latter part of the book does get back to its gripping intense nature and you’re constantly thinking who the bad guy is? There are lots of twists and turns, so be prepared!
The tone of this book is dark…ish but not as gruesome and action packed as The Brit was. I would have liked to have been on a few kills with James lol but that’s just me. This story is really about two broken people, who are deep down struggling and dealing with PTSD - especially Beau who uses James and his ‘ways’ in the bedroom as a chance to escape.
‘Don’t fight the bond.’
As always, Jodi’s secondary characters really make an impression on me and Otto and Goldie are just brilliant! Goldie has one of the best lines ever, I was in hysterics! When you read it, you’ll know what line.
So to conclude The Enigma was an enjoyable read, with a lot of intrigue that leads perfectly into book three, The Resurrection. Those that have read The Brit will definitely understand that title and know where this story is leading to. Jodi’s writing is captivating as always and draws you in from the first page. It was just the pace in the middle of the book and the non development of Beaus character that made it a 4 star for me. I was really hoping she would become the feisty cop that she once was, but I sadly just found her quite frustrating and stubborn by the end of the book, which was a shame. Hopefully in book 3 we will see this feistiness! Luckily we don’t have to wait too long, as book 3 is releasing in January.
I’m ready to be Resurrected!
Enigma….a person or thing that is mysterious or difficult to understand. That is certainly what James Kelly is Jodi Ellen Malpas’ gritty new story.
‘I stare at myself in the reflection. I see them clearly. The devil on one shoulder. An angel on the other. The devil speaks louder. The angel never made it.’
Set in the world of The Brit, although a separate story, I would highly recommend that you read that book first, as they are connected in ways.
Wow, the first 45% of this book was full on intrigue! Again, like the Brit, it didn’t feel like I was reading a Jodi book. It was so gritty, intense and mysterious. It does have a totally different tone to the Brit. Whereas The Brit is full on action from chapter to chapter, the Enigma is more subdued for most part of the book and really focuses on the characters, James and Beau and how they are dealing with the aftermath of tragic events that occurred in their pasts.
James is…well he’s an absolute Enigma, that’s the only way I can describe him. The first meet between him and Beau was completely unexpected, not what die-hard Jodi fans would expect, and I loved it! And let’s talk about the first intimate scene between them, wow!! Definitely the hottest sex scene that Jodi has ever written…James certainly has certain ways in the bedroom!
So hot 🥵
I will say between 45-60% the story did flatline a bit for me and the pace really slowed down. The dialogue too between Beau and James frustrated me at times. It was quite stilted, asking a question, then answering with a question and then not getting anywhere lol I desperately needed something to happen to keep my attention up.…And it did! The latter part of the book does get back to its gripping intense nature and you’re constantly thinking who the bad guy is? There are lots of twists and turns, so be prepared!
The tone of this book is dark…ish but not as gruesome and action packed as The Brit was. I would have liked to have been on a few kills with James lol but that’s just me. This story is really about two broken people, who are deep down struggling and dealing with PTSD - especially Beau who uses James and his ‘ways’ in the bedroom as a chance to escape.
‘Don’t fight the bond.’
As always, Jodi’s secondary characters really make an impression on me and Otto and Goldie are just brilliant! Goldie has one of the best lines ever, I was in hysterics! When you read it, you’ll know what line.
So to conclude The Enigma was an enjoyable read, with a lot of intrigue that leads perfectly into book three, The Resurrection. Those that have read The Brit will definitely understand that title and know where this story is leading to. Jodi’s writing is captivating as always and draws you in from the first page. It was just the pace in the middle of the book and the non development of Beaus character that made it a 4 star for me. I was really hoping she would become the feisty cop that she once was, but I sadly just found her quite frustrating and stubborn by the end of the book, which was a shame. Hopefully in book 3 we will see this feistiness! Luckily we don’t have to wait too long, as book 3 is releasing in January.
I’m ready to be Resurrected!
January 19, 2022
Beau Hayley used to be a cop, in top 10% who took FBI test and passed, engage to be married nothing can be better in her life. Then her cop mom was killed in front of her because she was getting too close to a killer and life hasn't been the same since. Beau can't accept that her mom incident was an accident. Due to her not believing in justice she quit the force and never apply to the FBI and just paint for a living because her mental state can not accept her mother is gone so she always grieving and in pain that is until one mistaken call.
James Kelly came to Miami for revenge, he killed everyone he could find that was tied to The Bear. The Bear is mafia and killed James entire family in England by burning down his family home killing everyone. Now with a new identity and nothing but time James is a ghost branded himself as The Enigma no one knows or sees him coming. He has a list of names, people he has to kill, people connected to The Bear. Because he was curious he made one call that change his course on his journey. Found how to bury his anger and hurt on one fierce, angry, petite painter. Will James continue his vengeance or get distracted by this lost soul buried in her pain. He understands her pain because he is her.
James Kelly came to Miami for revenge, he killed everyone he could find that was tied to The Bear. The Bear is mafia and killed James entire family in England by burning down his family home killing everyone. Now with a new identity and nothing but time James is a ghost branded himself as The Enigma no one knows or sees him coming. He has a list of names, people he has to kill, people connected to The Bear. Because he was curious he made one call that change his course on his journey. Found how to bury his anger and hurt on one fierce, angry, petite painter. Will James continue his vengeance or get distracted by this lost soul buried in her pain. He understands her pain because he is her.
January 21, 2022
I don’t understand how a supposedly “top of the class” FBI agent talks and acts like a child . The sex scene she saw and the way she acted about it was just childish and immature . Couldn’t connect with her nor him . Who would not question that call ?? It was obviously sus . But yah she’s a highly trained FBI agent and yet doesn’t question anything . So lame , I liked the Brit , but this .. yah Beau is not my cup of tea.
March 9, 2022
Oh I am just obsessed and in love with the Unlawful Men series by Jodi Ellen Malpas. I absolutely love The Brit and the The Enigma is just as good! I love the darkness, the no compromising manner of the characters and the raw/split open emotions on each and every page.
The book starts off with James killing a man. He calls FBI agent Jaz Hayley and tells her where the body is. At first he thinks he is in control. But Jaz has found out who he is, and that makes him a little nervous.
We also find out, that there is a gangster called The Bear. No one knows who he is. James only knows that The Bear killed his entire family. His parents, brother and sister. And he has been hunting The Bear ever since. Taking out the people in the middle. But he hasn’t found the Bear yet.
Than we switch to Beau Hayley. She is in the car with her mother. And goes to a shop to get a few things. When she walks back, she sees utter fear on her mother’s face who is sitting in the car. She runs towards the car, but the car explodes. Killing her mother, and burning Beau’s arm.
We have a small time skip and Beau is convinced her mother was murdered. But the investigating says it was an accident. That her mother was probably smoking, didn’t take care of her car and that that combination resulted in the explosion.
Beau is still in touch with Nath, the ex-partner of her mother. She is urging him on to look into clues about her mother’s dead. But he is a bit apprehensive. He truly thinks it was an accident and wants her to move on.
Nath is also the father of Ollie/Oliver. Her ex-fiancé. They broke up after the accident. Ollie still wants her back, but Beau has moved on.
I absolutely LOVEEEE Beau’s old mustang called Dolly. I truly wish I owned that broken piece of a car. Haha, I never knew I could fall in love with a car, but I did in this book haha.
I also love Dexter and Lawrence. She lives with her uncles. Lawrence is also part Zinnea. A confident and sexy woman. I love differences between the scenes where he was Zinnea or when he was Lawrence. And Dexter is level headed and the calm to Lawrence’s chaoticness at times. |
Then Beau gets a weird phone call. A man named James wants her to paint his office. She agrees to go to his place to give him an estimate.
When she enters the building and arrives at the top floor, she is in aw off all the windows. How open the place is. But there is no James. She calls out to him, but he doesn’t answer. She goes to explore and trying to find him. She opens a door. And sees him f***ing a woman from behind, while another man is watching them and jerking off. She is shocked and mesmerized at first. And then quickly leaves.
When he emerges I just love the whole vibe the instantly have together. The push and pull. Just the looks they shared. How he truly looks her in the eye. Into her soul, her being, her longing – like he can see everything she is trying so hard to hide.
She gives him an estimate and returns a few days later.
And that is truly when the story kicks off. I am madly in love with their bond. With their longing. The pure sexual vibes. How demanding James is. How feisty Beau responds. How they both are pulling the other in – while pushing away at the same time.
They are so incredibly hot, raw and powerful together. The sex scenes are written perfectly. I totally felt every single emotion in my bones and in my soul.
I love James’ jealousy when he sees Beau with Ollie. I love how Beau demands answers.
And I was totally invested with the mystery throughout the book. Who killed Jaz Hayley? Who is the Bear? Are the cases connected? What happens when you get an unclear clue and follow that one up? Is everyone who they say they are? Who is lying. What clues are fake and which are not?
Even though the book is about 500 pages it is still fast paced. Exciting and all consuming.
It does have an open end! I just looked if The Resurrection is already available in HC. But it isn’t yet. So I still have to wait a little while longer to read the conclusion.
But this book is big ass 5 star book!! If you love a mystery and a hot, scorching relationship, definitely picks this book up! It is insanely good. Absolutely LOVED it.
The book starts off with James killing a man. He calls FBI agent Jaz Hayley and tells her where the body is. At first he thinks he is in control. But Jaz has found out who he is, and that makes him a little nervous.
We also find out, that there is a gangster called The Bear. No one knows who he is. James only knows that The Bear killed his entire family. His parents, brother and sister. And he has been hunting The Bear ever since. Taking out the people in the middle. But he hasn’t found the Bear yet.
Than we switch to Beau Hayley. She is in the car with her mother. And goes to a shop to get a few things. When she walks back, she sees utter fear on her mother’s face who is sitting in the car. She runs towards the car, but the car explodes. Killing her mother, and burning Beau’s arm.
We have a small time skip and Beau is convinced her mother was murdered. But the investigating says it was an accident. That her mother was probably smoking, didn’t take care of her car and that that combination resulted in the explosion.
Beau is still in touch with Nath, the ex-partner of her mother. She is urging him on to look into clues about her mother’s dead. But he is a bit apprehensive. He truly thinks it was an accident and wants her to move on.
Nath is also the father of Ollie/Oliver. Her ex-fiancé. They broke up after the accident. Ollie still wants her back, but Beau has moved on.
I absolutely LOVEEEE Beau’s old mustang called Dolly. I truly wish I owned that broken piece of a car. Haha, I never knew I could fall in love with a car, but I did in this book haha.
I also love Dexter and Lawrence. She lives with her uncles. Lawrence is also part Zinnea. A confident and sexy woman. I love differences between the scenes where he was Zinnea or when he was Lawrence. And Dexter is level headed and the calm to Lawrence’s chaoticness at times. |
Then Beau gets a weird phone call. A man named James wants her to paint his office. She agrees to go to his place to give him an estimate.
When she enters the building and arrives at the top floor, she is in aw off all the windows. How open the place is. But there is no James. She calls out to him, but he doesn’t answer. She goes to explore and trying to find him. She opens a door. And sees him f***ing a woman from behind, while another man is watching them and jerking off. She is shocked and mesmerized at first. And then quickly leaves.
When he emerges I just love the whole vibe the instantly have together. The push and pull. Just the looks they shared. How he truly looks her in the eye. Into her soul, her being, her longing – like he can see everything she is trying so hard to hide.
She gives him an estimate and returns a few days later.
And that is truly when the story kicks off. I am madly in love with their bond. With their longing. The pure sexual vibes. How demanding James is. How feisty Beau responds. How they both are pulling the other in – while pushing away at the same time.
They are so incredibly hot, raw and powerful together. The sex scenes are written perfectly. I totally felt every single emotion in my bones and in my soul.
I love James’ jealousy when he sees Beau with Ollie. I love how Beau demands answers.
And I was totally invested with the mystery throughout the book. Who killed Jaz Hayley? Who is the Bear? Are the cases connected? What happens when you get an unclear clue and follow that one up? Is everyone who they say they are? Who is lying. What clues are fake and which are not?
Even though the book is about 500 pages it is still fast paced. Exciting and all consuming.
It does have an open end! I just looked if The Resurrection is already available in HC. But it isn’t yet. So I still have to wait a little while longer to read the conclusion.
But this book is big ass 5 star book!! If you love a mystery and a hot, scorching relationship, definitely picks this book up! It is insanely good. Absolutely LOVED it.
December 5, 2021
NON SPOILER REVIEW
Suspense…Intrigue…The Enigma.
Firstly…The Enigma is set within the world of The Brit, but it is a completely different story with completely different characters. It still carries a dark theme, but I wouldn’t say it was quite as dark or as action packed as The Brit, the mood of this book feels a little more subdued, but it is bursting with suspense and intrigue.
Wow, James Kelly certainly stands up to his namesake as The Enigma. The start of this book is full of suspense and intrigue surrounding our main characters, James and Beau. Again we get two prologues, one for each main character setting the foundations.
Both characters are broken souls after suffering huge loses, they both carry a world of pain, grief, hatred, revenge and retribution on their shoulders, consuming their lives and driving them both to fulfil their personal battles for justice.
When they come together ‘physically’ they find solace and peace within each other, and they soon become each other’s saviour. Both their characters will pull at the heartstrings, especially Beau, bless her, roaming the late night supermarket as she can’t cope with crowds of people, masking her true mental state and feelings, struggling daily to exist.
Wanting no more than a physical relationship for release and to escape, there was at times a lack of communication between them, refusing to open up and tell each other their secrets, and answer each other’s questions, which did frustrate me a little …part of that was because I became so eager for answers.
But wow, their first sexual encounter was erotic, kinky and passionate… and shocked me a little. Yes, our new alpha likes a bit of kink ;-) I won’t forget that love scene in a hurry.
Around 35-60% into the pace slows a little taking us into a bit of slow burn, drip feeding us clues and giving us glimpses of what’s going on in the background of the plot. Which I will not divulge and give anything away.
Then around 60% onwards the plot twists start coming a plenty, which are gripping and shocking. I definitely didn’t know which characters I could trust throughout this book. Again this Author has created brilliant secondary characters.
As always from Malpas, her vivid story telling and top quality penmanship is second to none. Her imagined blows my mind.
I found whenever I wasn’t reading the book I couldn’t stop thinking about it, trying to figure the characters and the plot out, which I failed at miserably lol.
Oh my that ending!!!! …It has left me so excited and eagerly anticipating the next book in the Unlawful Men …The Resurrection. I can’t wait!!!
🇬🇧 4.1/2 intriguing stars. 🇬🇧
*I recommend you read The Brit first as there are connections.
Suspense…Intrigue…The Enigma.
Firstly…The Enigma is set within the world of The Brit, but it is a completely different story with completely different characters. It still carries a dark theme, but I wouldn’t say it was quite as dark or as action packed as The Brit, the mood of this book feels a little more subdued, but it is bursting with suspense and intrigue.
Wow, James Kelly certainly stands up to his namesake as The Enigma. The start of this book is full of suspense and intrigue surrounding our main characters, James and Beau. Again we get two prologues, one for each main character setting the foundations.
Both characters are broken souls after suffering huge loses, they both carry a world of pain, grief, hatred, revenge and retribution on their shoulders, consuming their lives and driving them both to fulfil their personal battles for justice.
When they come together ‘physically’ they find solace and peace within each other, and they soon become each other’s saviour. Both their characters will pull at the heartstrings, especially Beau, bless her, roaming the late night supermarket as she can’t cope with crowds of people, masking her true mental state and feelings, struggling daily to exist.
Wanting no more than a physical relationship for release and to escape, there was at times a lack of communication between them, refusing to open up and tell each other their secrets, and answer each other’s questions, which did frustrate me a little …part of that was because I became so eager for answers.
But wow, their first sexual encounter was erotic, kinky and passionate… and shocked me a little. Yes, our new alpha likes a bit of kink ;-) I won’t forget that love scene in a hurry.
Around 35-60% into the pace slows a little taking us into a bit of slow burn, drip feeding us clues and giving us glimpses of what’s going on in the background of the plot. Which I will not divulge and give anything away.
Then around 60% onwards the plot twists start coming a plenty, which are gripping and shocking. I definitely didn’t know which characters I could trust throughout this book. Again this Author has created brilliant secondary characters.
As always from Malpas, her vivid story telling and top quality penmanship is second to none. Her imagined blows my mind.
I found whenever I wasn’t reading the book I couldn’t stop thinking about it, trying to figure the characters and the plot out, which I failed at miserably lol.
Oh my that ending!!!! …It has left me so excited and eagerly anticipating the next book in the Unlawful Men …The Resurrection. I can’t wait!!!
🇬🇧 4.1/2 intriguing stars. 🇬🇧
*I recommend you read The Brit first as there are connections.
November 23, 2021
LOVE IS A BATTLEFIELD WHEN THERE ARE NO LIMITS
"The devil makes us sin, but we like when we’re spinning in his grip. Love is like a sin.” ~~ [Massive Attack’s “Paradise Circus”]
Assassin love can be murderous to the heart, and what the heart wants can kill. A vigilante assassin and a curious ex-cop want the same justice, but very differently … and passionate love gets in the way. This heart-pounding gangsta romance treads the dark side of justice and compulsive love and, oh my, there’s no love like this love. Two dark souls at odds in a battle of wills. Angel-faced, gangsta-assassin Danny Black (The Brit) gives way to the dark soul of fellow assassin James Kelly (the Enigma) who more than holds his own in Unlawful Men #2. He’s mysterious, dark, purely masculine, impenetrable, and scary AF … until he crosses paths with a beautifully toxic woman who is his undoing.
“Darkness entices darkness. She’s toxic. But to me, she’s a balm. And I’m fatal. But to her, I’m life.”
If serial killer DEXTER and a devilish lover-killer version of This Man’s Jesse Ward had a baby it would be James Kelly. Two of my fave characters rolled into one. You didn’t think you’d get away with JEM not putting a touch of her most beloved character in this darkfest of love and villainy did you? Not to worry though. James is entirely his own man, with his own demons, scars, and a soulful obsessive love for “damaged goods” Beau with her own heady issues. They dance around each other with the powerful gravitational pull of a pair of black holes battling for supremacy in the cosmos. Love is too tame a word for his feelings, and her surprising skills only make him want her more, although she could be his downfall.
James’ past and present give off Dexter vibes, and his grisly kills were such a turn-on. His protective possessiveness and romantic wooing of Beau were off the charts, and showed his alpha side, while her resistance was futile in a rocky love story that heats to a fast-paced, crescendo ending. They’re simply “meant to be”. Romance, vendetta, betrayal, and murder collide in one flaming surprise reveal after another, and an ending that offered an exhilarating setup of The Resurrection. This is a “continuation” standalone, which finishes in that book, and what a rollercoaster it will be. The Brit and The Enigma worlds are very much linked in this book, so let the assassin games begin.
Such a wonderful kaleidoscope of enigmatic, duplicitous and untrustworthy characters with hidden agendas that unfold when the lives of a hunted assassin and the daughter of a murdered FBI agent cross paths in love, passion, vigilante kills, uncontrollable demons, and dangerous secrets.
I love the way JEM writes, her characters, the dialogue, and even the Jesse Ward parallels. The intimacy and poetic words feed me like candy crack. This Man series is my forever fave, but the Enigma carved out his own niche in my heart. James is the unseen man in the shadows craving to be seen for once, and Beau is the damaged woman trying desperately to be invisible to the world and herself, but James “sees” her anyway and won’t let her run or hide from the possibility of an “us”. Can they find light and become whole together? Their sexual encounters were raw, powerful, and vulnerable with nowhere to hide emotionally. The romantic relationship was everything, and the danger was off the hook. Emotionally perceptive James’ pushed Beau to open up and trust in love, while danger lurked around every corner and nipped at their heels. Bravo.
“I don’t want to fix you. I just want to love you. I’ve never fought for love. And it’s the toughest fucking battle yet.”
"The devil makes us sin, but we like when we’re spinning in his grip. Love is like a sin.” ~~ [Massive Attack’s “Paradise Circus”]
Assassin love can be murderous to the heart, and what the heart wants can kill. A vigilante assassin and a curious ex-cop want the same justice, but very differently … and passionate love gets in the way. This heart-pounding gangsta romance treads the dark side of justice and compulsive love and, oh my, there’s no love like this love. Two dark souls at odds in a battle of wills. Angel-faced, gangsta-assassin Danny Black (The Brit) gives way to the dark soul of fellow assassin James Kelly (the Enigma) who more than holds his own in Unlawful Men #2. He’s mysterious, dark, purely masculine, impenetrable, and scary AF … until he crosses paths with a beautifully toxic woman who is his undoing.
“Darkness entices darkness. She’s toxic. But to me, she’s a balm. And I’m fatal. But to her, I’m life.”
If serial killer DEXTER and a devilish lover-killer version of This Man’s Jesse Ward had a baby it would be James Kelly. Two of my fave characters rolled into one. You didn’t think you’d get away with JEM not putting a touch of her most beloved character in this darkfest of love and villainy did you? Not to worry though. James is entirely his own man, with his own demons, scars, and a soulful obsessive love for “damaged goods” Beau with her own heady issues. They dance around each other with the powerful gravitational pull of a pair of black holes battling for supremacy in the cosmos. Love is too tame a word for his feelings, and her surprising skills only make him want her more, although she could be his downfall.
James’ past and present give off Dexter vibes, and his grisly kills were such a turn-on. His protective possessiveness and romantic wooing of Beau were off the charts, and showed his alpha side, while her resistance was futile in a rocky love story that heats to a fast-paced, crescendo ending. They’re simply “meant to be”. Romance, vendetta, betrayal, and murder collide in one flaming surprise reveal after another, and an ending that offered an exhilarating setup of The Resurrection. This is a “continuation” standalone, which finishes in that book, and what a rollercoaster it will be. The Brit and The Enigma worlds are very much linked in this book, so let the assassin games begin.
Such a wonderful kaleidoscope of enigmatic, duplicitous and untrustworthy characters with hidden agendas that unfold when the lives of a hunted assassin and the daughter of a murdered FBI agent cross paths in love, passion, vigilante kills, uncontrollable demons, and dangerous secrets.
I love the way JEM writes, her characters, the dialogue, and even the Jesse Ward parallels. The intimacy and poetic words feed me like candy crack. This Man series is my forever fave, but the Enigma carved out his own niche in my heart. James is the unseen man in the shadows craving to be seen for once, and Beau is the damaged woman trying desperately to be invisible to the world and herself, but James “sees” her anyway and won’t let her run or hide from the possibility of an “us”. Can they find light and become whole together? Their sexual encounters were raw, powerful, and vulnerable with nowhere to hide emotionally. The romantic relationship was everything, and the danger was off the hook. Emotionally perceptive James’ pushed Beau to open up and trust in love, while danger lurked around every corner and nipped at their heels. Bravo.
“I don’t want to fix you. I just want to love you. I’ve never fought for love. And it’s the toughest fucking battle yet.”
November 21, 2021
***AVAILABLE NOW***
4.5 STARS
I absolutely love this world Jodi Ellen Malpas has created. Dark, anti-heroes, mafia worlds, strong heroines. It is my weakness.
What I loved:
1. James Kelly was everything. Possessive and protective. I adored him and how he handled Beau.
2. Beau is such a strong woman. I loved her growth and healing in this one.
3. These two are perfect for each other. They are the epitome of their broken pieces fit together.
4. The plot, especially the last 30% was like…omg.
5. The steam was so good, and it starts EARLY.
What I wanted more of:
1. The development as a couple is fast. They both have trauma, and so their connection is built off of that. It works for them, but I do feel like I would have liked a tad bit more. I think because they were keeping secrets from each other for so long, it made it seem fast.
2. A few things at the end, I felt were a bit glossed over. I wanted the details. All of them. Maybe they will come with the next book.
THE NEXT BOOK. I NEED LIKE ASAP.
If you love dark romances, this is one you need to read.
4.5 STARS
I absolutely love this world Jodi Ellen Malpas has created. Dark, anti-heroes, mafia worlds, strong heroines. It is my weakness.
What I loved:
1. James Kelly was everything. Possessive and protective. I adored him and how he handled Beau.
2. Beau is such a strong woman. I loved her growth and healing in this one.
3. These two are perfect for each other. They are the epitome of their broken pieces fit together.
4. The plot, especially the last 30% was like…omg.
5. The steam was so good, and it starts EARLY.
What I wanted more of:
1. The development as a couple is fast. They both have trauma, and so their connection is built off of that. It works for them, but I do feel like I would have liked a tad bit more. I think because they were keeping secrets from each other for so long, it made it seem fast.
2. A few things at the end, I felt were a bit glossed over. I wanted the details. All of them. Maybe they will come with the next book.
THE NEXT BOOK. I NEED LIKE ASAP.
If you love dark romances, this is one you need to read.
December 5, 2021
4-4.5 ⭐'s
Beau has suffered a great loss and two years later, she's really not any better, just trying to make it through day by day. That all changes when she gets a phone call from James.
James likes things a particular way (aka his way) and he's very vocal about it. He shouldn't want Beau but he can't stay away from her.
James calms Beau's mind and takes her away from things and that's all she wants much to James' dismay.
If you've read The Brit, you can understand the way of this book with all the plotting and secrets. It does keep you involved but sometimes it was too much.
I really enjoyed how things came together at the end but it's not over by a long shot. (The Resurrection is coming out January 25, 2022)
BTW, this book made me crazy with Beau either not having her own clothes or her clothes were wet....THROUGH THE WHOLE BOOK. Also, I have a feeling these secrets are gonna bite someone in the butt big time!
Beau has suffered a great loss and two years later, she's really not any better, just trying to make it through day by day. That all changes when she gets a phone call from James.
James likes things a particular way (aka his way) and he's very vocal about it. He shouldn't want Beau but he can't stay away from her.
James calms Beau's mind and takes her away from things and that's all she wants much to James' dismay.
If you've read The Brit, you can understand the way of this book with all the plotting and secrets. It does keep you involved but sometimes it was too much.
I really enjoyed how things came together at the end but it's not over by a long shot. (The Resurrection is coming out January 25, 2022)
BTW, this book made me crazy with Beau either not having her own clothes or her clothes were wet....THROUGH THE WHOLE BOOK. Also, I have a feeling these secrets are gonna bite someone in the butt big time!
November 23, 2021
DNF sadly this one didn’t work for me I gave up a half way in and skimmed to the end disappointing as I really enjoyed The Brit
August 31, 2024
She's toxic. But to me, she's a balm.
And I'm fatal. But to her, I'm life.
And I'm fatal. But to her, I'm life.
November 15, 2021
**SPOILER-FREE REVIEW**
“I’ve fought for power, Beau I’ve fought for freedom. For revenge. For hatred. But I’ve never fought for love.”
Wow….this series is absolutely RIVETING. Hands down our favourite by Jodi Ellen Malpas after the This Man Series. Brilliantly written, with an emphasis on suspense and passion in equal measure. The Enigma was captivating, thrilling, dark, erotic, and completely unputdownable. So well written, with a focus on strong character connection. We highly recommend that if you haven’t read The Brit yet, pick it up and immerse yourself in the dark world of crime, violence, retribution, and fierce love, then move on to The Enigma. This series needs to be read in order. For readers of dark romance, anti-heroes, and strong heroines, this is definitely a series to add to your reading lists!
‘Who are you James Kelly? And how can you hold me captive with curiosity I know is dangerous?’
‘He was arctic cold. Unfriendly. Spellbinding. Darkness entices darkness.’
‘He is the most beautifully dark thing I have ever seen.’
Beau and James’s story felt original and, in our opinion, showed just how much this author has developed in her writing. Fresh, fierce, and suspenseful; The Brit was just the beginning, and The Enigma took it to a whole new level. These characters stole our breath and our hearts. The atmosphere was so emotionally raw, angsty, and powerful through the agonizing broken darkness in both Beau and James. Their chemistry was explosive, as were their individual stories. When they came together it was utterly heart-breaking yet exhilarating too. Their connection profound. Their chemistry on fire!
‘…Beau sees me. Even if she doesn’t know what she’s looking at.’
‘She’s toxic. But to me, she’s a balm. And I’m fatal. But to her, I’m life.’
What we absolutely loved was the character development and the way in which their storyline unfolded. It packed such a powerful punch! Without any unnecessary and repetitive internal monologue faff from Beau, this made her one of our all-time favourite heroines by this Author. And James, oh my….what a man! Never mind freezer time, we’d need an ice bath to cool down reading this book. We do love our kink and Jodi Ellen Malpas did a stellar job here with James Kelly!
‘Love and hate. I couldn’t stop loving this man if I tried, no matter who he is. And I couldn’t stop hating the world if my life depended on it. But I can do both. Love and hate.’
The Enigma is edge of your seat reading and -wow- we were kept guessing and holding our breath at the twists and turns we had to take on this HOT and explosive ride. Bravo, Jodi Ellen Malpas, you absolutely NAILED IT!
‘Amid the chaotic, loud crashing of our bodies together, there is silence. Her eyes. My eyes. Her thoughts. My thoughts. Her heart. My heart. Her darkness. My darkness. Her demons diluted by mine. And mine by hers.’
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November 8, 2021
"She’s toxic. But to me, she’s a balm.
And I’m fatal. But to her, I’m life."
Whoa boy, this was a lot to handle - and I absolutely LOVED it! I completely ignored real life for two straight days and just dove into this immersive, intense, hot, violent, and exhilarating read. I don't know how she does it, but Malpas has somehow made me love books that contain things that I hate. As with the fabulous The Brit, if you'd told me the storyline ahead of time... I wouldn't have been interested. And I was nervous about the intensity of the first few steamy scenes in this, particularly some of the boundaries that are pushed. But I was absolutely engrossed in the story, and the mental games swimming beneath the steam had me turning the pages at an alarming rate. This couple is like a blazing inferno - burning hot and passionate; fueled by lust, grief, and a connection that ties them together even when they want nothing to do with each other. The push/pull, cat and mouse game between them was utterly addictive, and my eyes were glued to every scene, taking in every nuance and subtle shift in the relationship.
Do you need to read The Brit before starting this? Yes. Definitely yes. Not just because it's a great book, but because the characters live in the same world, and the storylines interconnect. The two books have very different vibes - this one is less mafia and more head games with LOTS of steam - but they both have the same kind of intensity and storylines that become action-packed along the way. This also ends on a major CLIFFHANGER that ties the series together, so I recommend that you read in order. I honestly have no idea what we'll get in the third book, but you'll definitely be seeing more of these characters.
The story follows Beau, a woman who has lost herself. A former cop, Beau was once a rising star in law enforcement. After the death of her mother, a detective, Beau has lost her trust in the justice system - and lost her desire to live. She's been struggling through the fog of depression and grief for the last two years, and it doesn't seem like anything can pull her out of it. Until Beau meets a man. A mysterious, enigma of a man. All of Beau's instincts are telling her to run from James, but he provides an escape from the depression... and that is all kinds of appealing. Desperate to feel something other than grief, Beau ignores the red flags that pop up all around James, and lets herself be pulled into his orbit. But she has no idea what she's getting herself into.
One of the best things about this book is that even though I read (and loved) The Brit, I still had zero idea what to expect from this. The one-of-a-kind, layered storyline had me completely hooked, and it took so many unexpected turns along the way. It's MEGA STEAMY, with boundary-pushing scenes and flawed characters who complement each other perfectly. James and Beau's broken pieces fit together in a way that is compelling and unique, and the endless tension between them kept me riveted. I felt so invested in their relationship, and James makes for quite the antihero. This complex romance ties in with a brutal and suspenseful storyline, and the combination made this 500-page book fly by. It's certainly not for the faint of heart, but if you made it through The Brit unscathed, then The Enigma will leave a lasting impression. It's not a book that I'll be forgetting anytime soon, and book three cannot be here soon enough. I was lucky enough to receive an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this steamy, dark romance.
And I’m fatal. But to her, I’m life."
Whoa boy, this was a lot to handle - and I absolutely LOVED it! I completely ignored real life for two straight days and just dove into this immersive, intense, hot, violent, and exhilarating read. I don't know how she does it, but Malpas has somehow made me love books that contain things that I hate. As with the fabulous The Brit, if you'd told me the storyline ahead of time... I wouldn't have been interested. And I was nervous about the intensity of the first few steamy scenes in this, particularly some of the boundaries that are pushed. But I was absolutely engrossed in the story, and the mental games swimming beneath the steam had me turning the pages at an alarming rate. This couple is like a blazing inferno - burning hot and passionate; fueled by lust, grief, and a connection that ties them together even when they want nothing to do with each other. The push/pull, cat and mouse game between them was utterly addictive, and my eyes were glued to every scene, taking in every nuance and subtle shift in the relationship.
Do you need to read The Brit before starting this? Yes. Definitely yes. Not just because it's a great book, but because the characters live in the same world, and the storylines interconnect. The two books have very different vibes - this one is less mafia and more head games with LOTS of steam - but they both have the same kind of intensity and storylines that become action-packed along the way. This also ends on a major CLIFFHANGER that ties the series together, so I recommend that you read in order. I honestly have no idea what we'll get in the third book, but you'll definitely be seeing more of these characters.
The story follows Beau, a woman who has lost herself. A former cop, Beau was once a rising star in law enforcement. After the death of her mother, a detective, Beau has lost her trust in the justice system - and lost her desire to live. She's been struggling through the fog of depression and grief for the last two years, and it doesn't seem like anything can pull her out of it. Until Beau meets a man. A mysterious, enigma of a man. All of Beau's instincts are telling her to run from James, but he provides an escape from the depression... and that is all kinds of appealing. Desperate to feel something other than grief, Beau ignores the red flags that pop up all around James, and lets herself be pulled into his orbit. But she has no idea what she's getting herself into.
One of the best things about this book is that even though I read (and loved) The Brit, I still had zero idea what to expect from this. The one-of-a-kind, layered storyline had me completely hooked, and it took so many unexpected turns along the way. It's MEGA STEAMY, with boundary-pushing scenes and flawed characters who complement each other perfectly. James and Beau's broken pieces fit together in a way that is compelling and unique, and the endless tension between them kept me riveted. I felt so invested in their relationship, and James makes for quite the antihero. This complex romance ties in with a brutal and suspenseful storyline, and the combination made this 500-page book fly by. It's certainly not for the faint of heart, but if you made it through The Brit unscathed, then The Enigma will leave a lasting impression. It's not a book that I'll be forgetting anytime soon, and book three cannot be here soon enough. I was lucky enough to receive an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this steamy, dark romance.
August 19, 2025
Such a good book. I love the dynamics between Beau and James. Can’t wait to read the next one!!
November 17, 2021
"I want to get to know you, Beau Hayley. And that's come as a massive f*ing surprise."
5 MASSIVE SWOONY STARS 🥰😍
WOW. What a ride reading this wonderful book was!
First, the start blew me away (very literally so!) and shocked me to the core.
From there on out unravels the two seemingly different stories of James and Beau in Miami,
Two stories of two broken souls who were so perfect for each other.
Their tragedies brought them together, and it made them stronger as a couple and as individuals and it was SO beautiful to watch ❤️❤️❤️
The story itself was dark like their hearts, but also a blazing fire of emotions, actions and steam 🔥
"I don't want to love either. And yet here I am, in love with her."
I mean holy cow James is just.... James is book husband material 😍
Tall, dark, handsome, British and a whole lot of persistent. 😍
He was Beau's beacon no matter what challenges he was confronted him, and he never gave up on her 😍
"I breathe out, reaching for my temple and massaging. "I have James issues."
"And we finally have the real issue," he whispers."
Beau was strong and fiery and I loved that she never gave up on finding justice. Her spirit was something else. 😍
The side characters!! Goldie and Otto who were with James from forever were protective and funny and helped James navigate through all the turmoil he went through. I loved them A LOT 😍
If I say anything more I'll spill out all the twists and turns this amazing book had,
So I'll have to zip my mouth shut since you're in for one massive ride.
"She's toxic. But to me, she's a balm. And I'm fatal. But to her, I'm life." 🥰😍
5 MASSIVE SWOONY STARS 🥰😍
WOW. What a ride reading this wonderful book was!
First, the start blew me away (very literally so!) and shocked me to the core.
From there on out unravels the two seemingly different stories of James and Beau in Miami,
Two stories of two broken souls who were so perfect for each other.
Their tragedies brought them together, and it made them stronger as a couple and as individuals and it was SO beautiful to watch ❤️❤️❤️
The story itself was dark like their hearts, but also a blazing fire of emotions, actions and steam 🔥
"I don't want to love either. And yet here I am, in love with her."
I mean holy cow James is just.... James is book husband material 😍
Tall, dark, handsome, British and a whole lot of persistent. 😍
He was Beau's beacon no matter what challenges he was confronted him, and he never gave up on her 😍
"I breathe out, reaching for my temple and massaging. "I have James issues."
"And we finally have the real issue," he whispers."
Beau was strong and fiery and I loved that she never gave up on finding justice. Her spirit was something else. 😍
The side characters!! Goldie and Otto who were with James from forever were protective and funny and helped James navigate through all the turmoil he went through. I loved them A LOT 😍
If I say anything more I'll spill out all the twists and turns this amazing book had,
So I'll have to zip my mouth shut since you're in for one massive ride.
"She's toxic. But to me, she's a balm. And I'm fatal. But to her, I'm life." 🥰😍
November 21, 2021
J.E.M's books have always garnered mixed emotions either I love them so much that I ignore the problematic or annoying stuff ( This man series🤭) or I end up disliking it so much that even the good parts become forgettable.
With hesitation I flipped through the pages cautious that any minute the hero's exes will start making an appearance or some other manwhorish thing will end up turning me off and ruin my experience but surprisingly there is literally No OW drama👏💃💃
Moreover the characterization of James is so Good❤️. He's a killer but not repeating again and again he's incapable of love🙄. He knows his worth and has one set aim and I love how he doesn't remain in denial that he has fallen in love.
Beau was okay nothing exceptional and a bit too stubborn for her own good tho I loved that she had a spine but she was always fighting the wrong battles.
The only thing I disliked was the clusterfuck that the ending chapters were. There was just too much happening, shootings, pregnancy, reveal, twist then turn. It was hard absorbing everything.
If there is going to be another book of James and Beau then I wish some plot lines would have been revealed in that one instead of putting everything in this.
'Amid the chaotic, loud crashing of our bodies together, there is silence. Her eyes. My eyes. Her thoughts. My thoughts. Her heart. My heart. Her darkness. My darkness. Her demons diluted by mine. And mine by hers.'
March 29, 2022
DNF and skimmed to the end and I’m still so disappointed and let down by this. I loved The Brit categorizing it as an all time fave.
This book features a psycho stalker killer talks in riddled hero and a former FBI heroine who I was SHOCKED at 11% at how she was acting. When he literally told her he was stalking her in not so many words she doesn’t bat and she and actually has no idea he is stalking her.
This book was so annoying on so many levels.
It took a while before the hero and heroine meet.
There was no connection between the hero and heroine. I’m truly baffled by the high ratings.
I could not stop getting annoyed the more I read it, it just kept making me angrier.
This book features a psycho stalker killer talks in riddled hero and a former FBI heroine who I was SHOCKED at 11% at how she was acting. When he literally told her he was stalking her in not so many words she doesn’t bat and she and actually has no idea he is stalking her.
This book was so annoying on so many levels.
It took a while before the hero and heroine meet.
There was no connection between the hero and heroine. I’m truly baffled by the high ratings.
I could not stop getting annoyed the more I read it, it just kept making me angrier.
March 31, 2024
Amazing book with an intriguing storyline! Jodi is an expert when it comes to developing characters with fascinating backgrounds and The Enigma was no exception. This book is full of twists and turns and unexpected revelations that had me hooked from page one. It's about uncovering the truth, even if it comes with a price. It's about finding love in the arms of someond forbidden and not being able to resist the pull.
Absolutely loved this book and can't wait for more!
Absolutely loved this book and can't wait for more!
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