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The Killough Company #4
The Apprentice
Fionn Killough is a Killough Company man in both blood and loyalty. Sloan—his uncle and mob boss—is the only father figure that Fionn has had, and he would do anything for him. But when Fionn is assigned to sniff out a rat in the Company, he hesitates for one reason—Daire.
Daire Reardon is the Company’s second-in-command and the man Fionn loves. Fionn has spent eight long years yearning for a relationship with Daire, but Daire refuses to give him more than his body. Sloan doesn’t know the entire truth about their history, and Fionn would never reveal his darkest secret. As much as Fionn tries, he can’t hide his feelings for Daire, even if the other man won’t acknowledge them.
Daire knows Fionn wants more. He’s known since the very beginning of their physical relationship. As much as he wants to, Daire can’t bring himself to admit his feelings for Fionn, not when he has a secret of his own. The more time he spends with Fionn, the more his own loyalty to Sloan and the Company are put to the test.
The Killough Company is going to war. They’re being attacked on all sides. To succeed in their mission to find the rat, Daire and Fionn need to deal with their feelings before they destroy them for good.
The Apprentice is a 120,000-word MM mob romance. It has morally-gray characters who would do anything to protect the man they love.
Daire Reardon is the Company’s second-in-command and the man Fionn loves. Fionn has spent eight long years yearning for a relationship with Daire, but Daire refuses to give him more than his body. Sloan doesn’t know the entire truth about their history, and Fionn would never reveal his darkest secret. As much as Fionn tries, he can’t hide his feelings for Daire, even if the other man won’t acknowledge them.
Daire knows Fionn wants more. He’s known since the very beginning of their physical relationship. As much as he wants to, Daire can’t bring himself to admit his feelings for Fionn, not when he has a secret of his own. The more time he spends with Fionn, the more his own loyalty to Sloan and the Company are put to the test.
The Killough Company is going to war. They’re being attacked on all sides. To succeed in their mission to find the rat, Daire and Fionn need to deal with their feelings before they destroy them for good.
The Apprentice is a 120,000-word MM mob romance. It has morally-gray characters who would do anything to protect the man they love.
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First published May 31, 2022
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May 14, 2025
⭐️
4.5 stars rounded up
⭐️
A book almost 5 years in the making. Was this worthy of taking 5 years to write? Not exactly, but also I'm not one to judge too much. Maybe something personal was going in the author's life or maybe she just had major writer's block when it came to this story. It happens.
Also, Sloan and Conall are my absolute favorites of this series and what I've really wanted all this time is more of them. They are the anchor couple of this series and what I absolutely loved that got me into this series.
That being said after reading this one, finally, Fionn and Daire are definitely my second favorite couple of this series behind Sloan and Conall.
It took me a bit to get into this, to get back into this world, but once I did I was hooked. Something about these two was just almost as good as my fave couple. I've always liked Daire, but Fionn was a bit of a brat at times and so it took me a while to warm up to him.
But knowing that he was 18 in the first book makes me understand him and his bratty behavior a bit more. I either didn't catch his age in the first book or subsequent books or it was just never mentioned before this one. But he had his 18th birthday a few months before Sloan and Conall met in their book, so he was freshly 18 during the early events of their book. I thought he was older, in my memory.
But I came to understand Fionn better after this book and getting a lot of his inner thoughts. He wants SO much to be just like Sloan, to be worthy of praise and admiration, especially Sloan's, and for him to be proud of him. But anyone taking Sloan's attention away, such as Conall, met Fionn's ire. Because he just wants to be loved and appreciated.
Daire, at first, doesn't help matters for Fionn. Because we learn that yes, not only were he and Daire sleeping together all throughout the first three books, but also it started a bit before the events of the first book.
On Fionn's 18th birthday, to be exact.
Except Daire kept his distance, because as we find out - he had been in love with Fionn's father Eoin when he was alive, and doesn't want to replace him with his son. This would seem a lot, for him to have feelings for his father and Fionn, but we learn that no one ever knew of Daire's feelings, not even Sloan, not even Eoin himself, and nothing ever happened between them.
I am giving .5 stars off for this plot point. Specifically how it was handled. Because we barely get much about Daire's feelings for Eoin and he's able to drop it pretty quickly after he finally tells Fionn. Not only that, but Fionn doesn't even give a shit about it all, and yet Daire kept this from him for 8 years, pushing him away.
So because of other books already written and the timeline of this universe moving forward because of that, it's been 8 damn years since the start of the first book, and since these two started sleeping together.
Things finally come to a head in this, with Fionn getting fed up with being led on and pushed away when he clearly wants more. But it taking 8 years for that to happen? And the big reason for why Daire did that (or, the reason he gave) is because of Fionn's father and his feelings for him that was forgotten as soon as he spoke it into existence? There was no grappling with those old feelings, he was just kind of like "I think i'm just holding onto the memory more than anything now" kind of thing and that was that. Like?
Why introduce such a big thing and then drop it halfway through? That was my biggest gripe with this story, because I think having feelings for someone's father and also for the son is a big ass deal, and Fionn not giving a flying fuck was wild. Like I thought he'd be very insecure about it and scared that Daire loved his dead father and his memory more than him. I mean, given how he acts about Sloan and anyone taking his time and attention away from him, he acts like an insecure, mean, petty bitch with them but not about this? He's just like "whatevs, what do I care how you felt about a man I barely even knew?" like huh?
It felt more like the author wanted to just do away with the very plot point used to have kept them from being together all these years to get to them being together and in love and committed.
It was just poorly handled, in my opinion.
BUT, despite that poorly handled plot point, I did love the rest of this, and I loved these two together. Poorly handled though it may have been to get them to being in a relationship and more than just sex, once they were there I was SO into it.
Their chemistry was just really good and their dynamic worked so well. And yes, this does have daddy!kink, although it hasn't dived into too deeply (which I didn't mind too much in this, as there was a lot going on with the mob plot).
But the sex was really good and I loved that we got to see more vulnerability with Fionn. And with Daire, who is definitely a very closed up kind of guy. Behind closed doors with Fionn, though, he's comes out of his shell more. His dominance as "Daddy Daire" was really hot, too.
Also of course I loved every small bit we got with Sloan and Conall. I cannot WAIT to come back to these two in the next book, even if it takes another 5 years to come (although i'd rather it not take that long, pretty pleaseee 🫶). There was some good character moments with Sloan in this as well, and for his and Fionn's relationship.
Ultimately, I'm so happy for this story and Fionn and Daire getting their HEA by the end of this. Their story is definitely wrapped up, although the overarching story was definitely left on a bit of a 'until later' kinda feeling, with what is going on with Sloan.
So yeah, definitely two thumbs up from me for this installment, I did love it overall and it's definitely my second favorite couple in the series.
Now I'm excited to get the focus back on Sloan and Conall next, whenever that may be.
Can't wait! 😍
My Ratings for The Killough Company Series:
✨The Boss: 5 stars (my review)
✨The Boss's Christmas: 5 stars (my review)
✨The Professional: 4 stars (my review)
✨The Assassin: 4 stars (my review)
✨The Pet's Play: 5 stars (my review)
✨The Apprentice: 4.5 stars
✨ The Pet: TBR
A book almost 5 years in the making. Was this worthy of taking 5 years to write? Not exactly, but also I'm not one to judge too much. Maybe something personal was going in the author's life or maybe she just had major writer's block when it came to this story. It happens.
Also, Sloan and Conall are my absolute favorites of this series and what I've really wanted all this time is more of them. They are the anchor couple of this series and what I absolutely loved that got me into this series.
That being said after reading this one, finally, Fionn and Daire are definitely my second favorite couple of this series behind Sloan and Conall.
It took me a bit to get into this, to get back into this world, but once I did I was hooked. Something about these two was just almost as good as my fave couple. I've always liked Daire, but Fionn was a bit of a brat at times and so it took me a while to warm up to him.
But knowing that he was 18 in the first book makes me understand him and his bratty behavior a bit more. I either didn't catch his age in the first book or subsequent books or it was just never mentioned before this one. But he had his 18th birthday a few months before Sloan and Conall met in their book, so he was freshly 18 during the early events of their book. I thought he was older, in my memory.
But I came to understand Fionn better after this book and getting a lot of his inner thoughts. He wants SO much to be just like Sloan, to be worthy of praise and admiration, especially Sloan's, and for him to be proud of him. But anyone taking Sloan's attention away, such as Conall, met Fionn's ire. Because he just wants to be loved and appreciated.
Daire, at first, doesn't help matters for Fionn. Because we learn that yes, not only were he and Daire sleeping together all throughout the first three books, but also it started a bit before the events of the first book.
On Fionn's 18th birthday, to be exact.
Except Daire kept his distance, because as we find out - he had been in love with Fionn's father Eoin when he was alive, and doesn't want to replace him with his son. This would seem a lot, for him to have feelings for his father and Fionn, but we learn that no one ever knew of Daire's feelings, not even Sloan, not even Eoin himself, and nothing ever happened between them.
I am giving .5 stars off for this plot point. Specifically how it was handled. Because we barely get much about Daire's feelings for Eoin and he's able to drop it pretty quickly after he finally tells Fionn. Not only that, but Fionn doesn't even give a shit about it all, and yet Daire kept this from him for 8 years, pushing him away.
So because of other books already written and the timeline of this universe moving forward because of that, it's been 8 damn years since the start of the first book, and since these two started sleeping together.
Things finally come to a head in this, with Fionn getting fed up with being led on and pushed away when he clearly wants more. But it taking 8 years for that to happen? And the big reason for why Daire did that (or, the reason he gave) is because of Fionn's father and his feelings for him that was forgotten as soon as he spoke it into existence? There was no grappling with those old feelings, he was just kind of like "I think i'm just holding onto the memory more than anything now" kind of thing and that was that. Like?
Why introduce such a big thing and then drop it halfway through? That was my biggest gripe with this story, because I think having feelings for someone's father and also for the son is a big ass deal, and Fionn not giving a flying fuck was wild. Like I thought he'd be very insecure about it and scared that Daire loved his dead father and his memory more than him. I mean, given how he acts about Sloan and anyone taking his time and attention away from him, he acts like an insecure, mean, petty bitch with them but not about this? He's just like "whatevs, what do I care how you felt about a man I barely even knew?" like huh?
It felt more like the author wanted to just do away with the very plot point used to have kept them from being together all these years to get to them being together and in love and committed.
It was just poorly handled, in my opinion.
BUT, despite that poorly handled plot point, I did love the rest of this, and I loved these two together. Poorly handled though it may have been to get them to being in a relationship and more than just sex, once they were there I was SO into it.
Their chemistry was just really good and their dynamic worked so well. And yes, this does have daddy!kink, although it hasn't dived into too deeply (which I didn't mind too much in this, as there was a lot going on with the mob plot).
But the sex was really good and I loved that we got to see more vulnerability with Fionn. And with Daire, who is definitely a very closed up kind of guy. Behind closed doors with Fionn, though, he's comes out of his shell more. His dominance as "Daddy Daire" was really hot, too.
Also of course I loved every small bit we got with Sloan and Conall. I cannot WAIT to come back to these two in the next book, even if it takes another 5 years to come (although i'd rather it not take that long, pretty pleaseee 🫶). There was some good character moments with Sloan in this as well, and for his and Fionn's relationship.
Ultimately, I'm so happy for this story and Fionn and Daire getting their HEA by the end of this. Their story is definitely wrapped up, although the overarching story was definitely left on a bit of a 'until later' kinda feeling, with what is going on with Sloan.
So yeah, definitely two thumbs up from me for this installment, I did love it overall and it's definitely my second favorite couple in the series.
Now I'm excited to get the focus back on Sloan and Conall next, whenever that may be.
Can't wait! 😍
My Ratings for The Killough Company Series:
✨The Boss: 5 stars (my review)
✨The Boss's Christmas: 5 stars (my review)
✨The Professional: 4 stars (my review)
✨The Assassin: 4 stars (my review)
✨The Pet's Play: 5 stars (my review)
✨The Apprentice: 4.5 stars
✨ The Pet: TBR
January 13, 2025
Dang, that was a marvelous read!
Fionn is Sloan’s nephew and under his care since the death of Fionn’s dad.
He’s Sloan’s apprentice, one day the Killough company will be his.
It only seems by the way Sloan treats him, he will never be ready.
Fionn is in love with Daire, Sloan’s first man, second in command, since their first kiss on Fionn’s eighteenth birthday, eight years ago.
They are f*ck buddies, Daire made it clear through the years, they will never be more.
Daire never stays.
Fionn is hurt by Sloan and Daire. He struggles a lot!
Fionn has to act as the big boss, with no emotions and thoroughly dominating. He can, but behind bedroom doors, he’s the boy who needs his Daddy. If only this Daddy really wanted to be his Daddy, not only for a few hours. He has to find someone who wants to be.
We can follow Fionn, Daire, Sloan and his pet Conall, the dynamic of the business, the deadly threats, and the secrets. But the main plots are about Fionn and Daire, and Fionn’s apprenticeship.
I love Fionn’s character, potential as Sloan’s apprentice, finding his place in the Company.
Daire was super protective over Fionn. Behind doors they are so hot together.
The story was excellently written, with feelings all over the place. The story was so attractive!
I didn’t want to leave this world!
Fionn is Sloan’s nephew and under his care since the death of Fionn’s dad.
He’s Sloan’s apprentice, one day the Killough company will be his.
It only seems by the way Sloan treats him, he will never be ready.
Fionn is in love with Daire, Sloan’s first man, second in command, since their first kiss on Fionn’s eighteenth birthday, eight years ago.
They are f*ck buddies, Daire made it clear through the years, they will never be more.
Daire never stays.
Fionn is hurt by Sloan and Daire. He struggles a lot!
Fionn has to act as the big boss, with no emotions and thoroughly dominating. He can, but behind bedroom doors, he’s the boy who needs his Daddy. If only this Daddy really wanted to be his Daddy, not only for a few hours. He has to find someone who wants to be.
We can follow Fionn, Daire, Sloan and his pet Conall, the dynamic of the business, the deadly threats, and the secrets. But the main plots are about Fionn and Daire, and Fionn’s apprenticeship.
I love Fionn’s character, potential as Sloan’s apprentice, finding his place in the Company.
Daire was super protective over Fionn. Behind doors they are so hot together.
The story was excellently written, with feelings all over the place. The story was so attractive!
I didn’t want to leave this world!
January 10, 2025
So good!!
I've been hanging out for this story for ages!!! These two are perfect and all the hints we've gotten in other stories are nothing compared to this one!!
There is so much more to Fionn and I loved his character arc and getting to know what he was thinking.
So much happens in this book that links to do many others in the author's world, I can't wait for more!! I hope we get a wedding soon 😜
I've been hanging out for this story for ages!!! These two are perfect and all the hints we've gotten in other stories are nothing compared to this one!!
There is so much more to Fionn and I loved his character arc and getting to know what he was thinking.
So much happens in this book that links to do many others in the author's world, I can't wait for more!! I hope we get a wedding soon 😜
January 11, 2025
I need more
Absolutely loved it Fionn's character growth was so so good and the way the relationship with Daire progressed was everything. However what you did to Sloan had me shouting but I suspect Sloan has his reasons for giving in and I can't wait to see what they are.
Absolutely loved it Fionn's character growth was so so good and the way the relationship with Daire progressed was everything. However what you did to Sloan had me shouting but I suspect Sloan has his reasons for giving in and I can't wait to see what they are.
January 16, 2025
Loved this book, the dynamic between Daire and Fionn was everything! Daire was on my nerves for a minute but he finally got his shit together. I loved Fionn stepping into his power as he did! I was GAGGED over Sloan!? I need more immediately. The spice was so well written as well (as usual from MD). I do want to go back and read previous books to get all the inner workings of the company though, I really enjoyed seeing how stuff worked and want to know more.
January 26, 2025
This really wasn’t my thing. I’ve been waiting and had high expectations. But sadly the trope is daddy/little boy. And it’s said again and again super repetitive. I would love to read about Fionn. And I’ve tried to read it multiple times but I can’t get over their daddy Daire dynamic.
It should have had that as Tw, or something bc Daddy kink is not for everyone, I don’t read books with that in.
So maybe the book is good except the whole that. But it only gets one star bc it should’ve been in the blurb that it contains Daddy kink.
It should have had that as Tw, or something bc Daddy kink is not for everyone, I don’t read books with that in.
So maybe the book is good except the whole that. But it only gets one star bc it should’ve been in the blurb that it contains Daddy kink.
January 10, 2025
Not enough drama.
June 9, 2022
I want to read this book so bad I hope it’s released soon
August 2, 2025
From Cold to Captivating: Fionn’s Emotional Evolution in The Apprentice
Title: The Apprentice
Author: M.D. Gregory
Source: Audiobook provided in exchange for an honest review
Spice Level: 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: M/M Romance, Age Gap, Mafia Family, Bodyguard/Charge.
Themes: Trust, Identity, Comfort
(This review contains spoilers!)
Review:
The Apprentice is book four in the world of The Killough Company, and it marks a powerful, emotional turning point in how I see Fionn Killough.
Over the first three books, I had a hard time warming to his cold exterior and defensive attitude—but this installment gave me clarity, compassion, and a whole new appreciation. Behind Sloane and Connall Killough (not married yet, but I expect those wedding bells soon!), he’s now undoubtedly my favourite character. I adore him.
Daire, Fionn’s counterpart in this story, isn’t my personal favourite, but I love their dynamic—they make complete emotional and narrative sense together. Their Daddy/little boy (D/l) kink relationship is handled with care, intensity, and heat. The kink is explicit and well integrated into their growth but not overwhelming.
A major highlight was seeing both Sloane and Connall again. Their appearances are threaded in perfectly—not as fan service, but as meaningful touchpoints in Fionn’s developing journey. I especially loved how Connall and Fionn’s relationship evolved from a complex and rivalry-fueled dynamic with underlying jealousy to a more supportive and understanding connection through the course of the story.
One element that genuinely caught me off guard: I’d read another M.D. Gregory title out of sequence, where the character who now plays the antagonist was previously a protagonist I really liked. I was honestly worried the antagonist would die in this book, since I’d grown really attached to him previously. That added a lot of tension for me—it’s a testament to how interconnected and dynamic the Killough Company world has become. I’m genuinely nervous—and excited—to see how that subplot plays out in The Pet.
And yes, I will absolutely be listening to this again. The narration was outstanding, bringing added depth to Fionn’s character especially. This book is spicy and honest with a carefully crafted emotional payoff. It didn’t just redeem a character—it made me fall for him.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 stars)
Will I read more from this author? Absolutely. I’m deeply invested in the Killough Company universe and counting the days until The Pet.
Title: The Apprentice
Author: M.D. Gregory
Source: Audiobook provided in exchange for an honest review
Spice Level: 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: M/M Romance, Age Gap, Mafia Family, Bodyguard/Charge.
Themes: Trust, Identity, Comfort
(This review contains spoilers!)
Review:
The Apprentice is book four in the world of The Killough Company, and it marks a powerful, emotional turning point in how I see Fionn Killough.
Over the first three books, I had a hard time warming to his cold exterior and defensive attitude—but this installment gave me clarity, compassion, and a whole new appreciation. Behind Sloane and Connall Killough (not married yet, but I expect those wedding bells soon!), he’s now undoubtedly my favourite character. I adore him.
Daire, Fionn’s counterpart in this story, isn’t my personal favourite, but I love their dynamic—they make complete emotional and narrative sense together. Their Daddy/little boy (D/l) kink relationship is handled with care, intensity, and heat. The kink is explicit and well integrated into their growth but not overwhelming.
A major highlight was seeing both Sloane and Connall again. Their appearances are threaded in perfectly—not as fan service, but as meaningful touchpoints in Fionn’s developing journey. I especially loved how Connall and Fionn’s relationship evolved from a complex and rivalry-fueled dynamic with underlying jealousy to a more supportive and understanding connection through the course of the story.
One element that genuinely caught me off guard: I’d read another M.D. Gregory title out of sequence, where the character who now plays the antagonist was previously a protagonist I really liked. I was honestly worried the antagonist would die in this book, since I’d grown really attached to him previously. That added a lot of tension for me—it’s a testament to how interconnected and dynamic the Killough Company world has become. I’m genuinely nervous—and excited—to see how that subplot plays out in The Pet.
And yes, I will absolutely be listening to this again. The narration was outstanding, bringing added depth to Fionn’s character especially. This book is spicy and honest with a carefully crafted emotional payoff. It didn’t just redeem a character—it made me fall for him.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 stars)
Will I read more from this author? Absolutely. I’m deeply invested in the Killough Company universe and counting the days until The Pet.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2025
The Apprentice is MD Gregory’s long-awaited fourth book in the Killough series set in the New Gothenburg universe. It’s all about Fionn, the heir to the throne…Sloan’s nephew and apprentice. The book itself isn’t really a standalone. It takes place as part of a larger story and runs concurrently with other books set in the same universe.
Eight years have passed since The Boss. Conall has cemented his place as Sloan’s pet, but also as a strong man on his own. The Reyes Cartel has been causing problems for the Killough Company. The Irish Roulette bunch have stepped up as Sloan’s loyal soldiers. Fionn is older now, having spent several years following Sloan and learning the business. But…the time lapse also shows that him and Daire have an eight year situationship going on. We see several flashbacks from them both at the beginning, showing how things have progressed and explaining why each feel’s the way they do. The interaction between the two is fire. As always, Meg knows how to write good chemistry between characters.
The book itself is primarily about Fionn. It’s called The Apprentice after all. We see his growth, the way he is coming into his role and the expectations of that. We see his emotions: the anger, the jealousy, the loneliness. I was happy to see the character evolve into one with way more depth than I expected. His relationship with Daire is pretty central to that, and the book definitely focuses on the two of them more than anything else. We do see new perspective on events already covered in other books in the series, just no major overall series advancement. We do see a bunch of familiar faces as we learn about things from Fionn and Daire’s point of view.
I am always very impressed with this author’s ability to make me like a character that I previously did not care for very much. Fionn has always come across as a bit immature, but this books really rounds him out as a character. Also impressive is the way Meg keeps everything on track. This book weaves concurrently with several others, yet there are no big spoilers for those who read them in a different order. That takes a lot of talent! I am very much looking forward to learning what happens next. This universe holds a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to read more!
Eight years have passed since The Boss. Conall has cemented his place as Sloan’s pet, but also as a strong man on his own. The Reyes Cartel has been causing problems for the Killough Company. The Irish Roulette bunch have stepped up as Sloan’s loyal soldiers. Fionn is older now, having spent several years following Sloan and learning the business. But…the time lapse also shows that him and Daire have an eight year situationship going on. We see several flashbacks from them both at the beginning, showing how things have progressed and explaining why each feel’s the way they do. The interaction between the two is fire. As always, Meg knows how to write good chemistry between characters.
The book itself is primarily about Fionn. It’s called The Apprentice after all. We see his growth, the way he is coming into his role and the expectations of that. We see his emotions: the anger, the jealousy, the loneliness. I was happy to see the character evolve into one with way more depth than I expected. His relationship with Daire is pretty central to that, and the book definitely focuses on the two of them more than anything else. We do see new perspective on events already covered in other books in the series, just no major overall series advancement. We do see a bunch of familiar faces as we learn about things from Fionn and Daire’s point of view.
I am always very impressed with this author’s ability to make me like a character that I previously did not care for very much. Fionn has always come across as a bit immature, but this books really rounds him out as a character. Also impressive is the way Meg keeps everything on track. This book weaves concurrently with several others, yet there are no big spoilers for those who read them in a different order. That takes a lot of talent! I am very much looking forward to learning what happens next. This universe holds a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to read more!
January 5, 2025
This is the fourth book in the Killough Company Series. If you haven't read the other books, much probably won't make sense to you or you will be left wondering who is who.
In this book, we finally get to know more about Fionn, Sloan's apprentice, and Diare, Sloan's second in command. There is a lot of history between the two, with almost eight years having passed since the first book in this series. The time skip throw me for a bit of a loop, especially since events coincide with events in the Irish Roulette Series by the same author. Meg does a good job keeping track of all events and making sure the timeline is correct, without giving spoilers for the other books. Because of the overall timeline and this being a book about the Killough Company, we see a lot of familiar faces from the earlier books in this series.
Because eight years have passed, we get some flashbacks to Fionn and Diare's past, them meeting for the first time. While necessary for the story, they did take some of the speed out of the story. A lot is happening in this book, since being part of the mafia is never easy and there's always more work to be done. Even so, most of the focus of this book is on the relationship between apprentice and second in command, not on the overall events. It does has some darker themes, like torture and killing.
I really liked getting to know Fionn better, as he has always been a bit of a jealous character. Fortunately, Daire finally steps up and becomes the partner Fionn really needs. Fionn grows as a character, finally getting a bit of the maturity he desperately needed.
I'm so glad this book is finally here and this series will continue with the next book about Conall and Sloan again! I can't wait to read more about the Killough Company.
In this book, we finally get to know more about Fionn, Sloan's apprentice, and Diare, Sloan's second in command. There is a lot of history between the two, with almost eight years having passed since the first book in this series. The time skip throw me for a bit of a loop, especially since events coincide with events in the Irish Roulette Series by the same author. Meg does a good job keeping track of all events and making sure the timeline is correct, without giving spoilers for the other books. Because of the overall timeline and this being a book about the Killough Company, we see a lot of familiar faces from the earlier books in this series.
Because eight years have passed, we get some flashbacks to Fionn and Diare's past, them meeting for the first time. While necessary for the story, they did take some of the speed out of the story. A lot is happening in this book, since being part of the mafia is never easy and there's always more work to be done. Even so, most of the focus of this book is on the relationship between apprentice and second in command, not on the overall events. It does has some darker themes, like torture and killing.
I really liked getting to know Fionn better, as he has always been a bit of a jealous character. Fortunately, Daire finally steps up and becomes the partner Fionn really needs. Fionn grows as a character, finally getting a bit of the maturity he desperately needed.
I'm so glad this book is finally here and this series will continue with the next book about Conall and Sloan again! I can't wait to read more about the Killough Company.
January 9, 2025
The Apprentice by MD Gregory is the fourth book in the Killough Company series, and it’s essential to have read the previous instalments for full context. This instalment focuses on Fionn, Sloan’s apprentice, and Diare, Sloan’s second-in-command, delving into their complicated history and evolving relationship.
Set eight years after the first book, the time skip aligns with events in the Irish Roulette series, and the author skilfully maintains a cohesive timeline without spoiling the other books. Familiar characters from earlier in the series make appearances, adding depth and continuity.
Through flashbacks, we learn about Fionn and Diare’s past, including their first meeting. While these scenes are necessary for context, they slow the pacing at times. The story balances mafia drama—complete with darker themes like torture and killing—with a strong focus on the intense, often tumultuous relationship between Fionn and Diare. Fionn’s growth, as he matures and sheds his jealous tendencies, is especially satisfying, and Diare finally steps up as the partner Fionn needs.
This book offers a deeper dive into Fionn’s character while delivering the gritty, high-stakes drama fans of the series expect. I’m thrilled to see the series continue and eagerly await the next instalment featuring Conall and Sloan. A must-read for fans of the Killough Company!
Set eight years after the first book, the time skip aligns with events in the Irish Roulette series, and the author skilfully maintains a cohesive timeline without spoiling the other books. Familiar characters from earlier in the series make appearances, adding depth and continuity.
Through flashbacks, we learn about Fionn and Diare’s past, including their first meeting. While these scenes are necessary for context, they slow the pacing at times. The story balances mafia drama—complete with darker themes like torture and killing—with a strong focus on the intense, often tumultuous relationship between Fionn and Diare. Fionn’s growth, as he matures and sheds his jealous tendencies, is especially satisfying, and Diare finally steps up as the partner Fionn needs.
This book offers a deeper dive into Fionn’s character while delivering the gritty, high-stakes drama fans of the series expect. I’m thrilled to see the series continue and eagerly await the next instalment featuring Conall and Sloan. A must-read for fans of the Killough Company!
August 11, 2025
I love this series! Before reading this series the only Mafia style book I had read were a bit…soft. This series is darker and harder and the MCs for all the books are ones I love in their own ways.
This book centers on Fionn and Daire. They have had an arrangement for several years and they have things to work out. A lot of things. This book (and series) have all the right Mafia feels. They are dark and have an edge, but the MCs are still human and relatable. Fionn and Daire have personalities that make them feel real. I love seeing their relationship progression and I love seeing how they get together.
I read this as an audiobook and I have to say this is one of my more highly anticipated books. It’s 4th in the series and the first 3 books aren’t out yet, but they will be and it makes me incredibly happy. I love this series and I can’t wait to have all the other book on audio, especially if narrated by Keval Shah again. He is one of my new favorite audiobook narrators and he always has a great performance. His narration of “The Apprentice” is spectacular. I loved every second of it and I really can’t wait for more.
I received a copy of this audiobook and this is my honest opinion.
This book centers on Fionn and Daire. They have had an arrangement for several years and they have things to work out. A lot of things. This book (and series) have all the right Mafia feels. They are dark and have an edge, but the MCs are still human and relatable. Fionn and Daire have personalities that make them feel real. I love seeing their relationship progression and I love seeing how they get together.
I read this as an audiobook and I have to say this is one of my more highly anticipated books. It’s 4th in the series and the first 3 books aren’t out yet, but they will be and it makes me incredibly happy. I love this series and I can’t wait to have all the other book on audio, especially if narrated by Keval Shah again. He is one of my new favorite audiobook narrators and he always has a great performance. His narration of “The Apprentice” is spectacular. I loved every second of it and I really can’t wait for more.
I received a copy of this audiobook and this is my honest opinion.
January 12, 2025
Wow. Just wow. We all have this aspect that Fionn is spoiled with no real value to the company. But its like everything...we dont see how hard a duck works to swim across water, they look so serene just gliding there.
In this story, we learn that Fionn is seriously smart, but its hidden from so many. He knows so much about the Companys aquaintances. More than even Daire, Sloans right hand knows. Its his own insecurities and feelings of abandonment that stall his progression into a senior leadership.... and the fact that Sloan cant bear anything to happen to him.
As for Daire, he knows he hasnt treated Fionn properly and that it only when hes faced with losing Fionn, that he wakes up to his hearts desire. Yes we learn of his past and how that impacts his treatment of Fionn. I can kinda understand it, but definately feel Fionn deserved to be treated better.
In this story, we learn that Fionn is seriously smart, but its hidden from so many. He knows so much about the Companys aquaintances. More than even Daire, Sloans right hand knows. Its his own insecurities and feelings of abandonment that stall his progression into a senior leadership.... and the fact that Sloan cant bear anything to happen to him.
As for Daire, he knows he hasnt treated Fionn properly and that it only when hes faced with losing Fionn, that he wakes up to his hearts desire. Yes we learn of his past and how that impacts his treatment of Fionn. I can kinda understand it, but definately feel Fionn deserved to be treated better.
January 16, 2025
Fionn is Sloan Killough's nephew and heir. Daire is Sloan's second and is teaching Fionn the mafia business while protecting him. But since Fionn was eighteen, he has been sleeping with him and is his Daddy. Nw 26, Fionn is in love with Daire but Daire pretends its casual as Fionn will be his Boss one day and Daire will be a weakness. You feel for Fionn as he longs for someone to love him and to have someone, Sloan or Daire be proud of him. Daire is madly jealous of anyone close to him but continues to push him away. You know it will be explosive between them! It's a dark, mafia story with desire, desperation and passion besides violence. This long awaited book, a continuation of the Killough's series was well worth the wait. I love the Killoughs and there is more Sloan and Conal.
January 23, 2025
Fi read as if he was a teenager (so many tantrums and daddy issues), which is wild because Daire had been sexually involved with him for 8 years. So I’m not sure that reflected on Daire greatly and made the whole relationship seem quite childish. It’s suppose to be a daddy/boy relationship, but it read as if teenager/child bc no one acted like an adult (despite running a mob!) In addition, the timeline for this book was all over the place. Weeks or months in between chapters, but you’re then given throw away lines about important events. Also, who does multiple epilogues that have the story resuming 2-3 weeks later? More time passed in between the standard chapters! Story ends with a very minor cliff hanger, I suppose to make you read the next book. I’ll pass.
August 15, 2025
I loved this book!
The Apprentice is a slow-burn mafia romance with just the right mix of tension, emotion, and danger. Fionn is such a relatable character—loyal, guarded, and quietly in love—and his chemistry with Daire is full of history and heat. The buildup between them had me hooked. M.D. Gregory did a great job balancing the romance with the suspense. If you’re into forbidden love, angsty vibes, and a bit of danger, definitely check this one out.
And what about the narrator!! Pheww! Keval Shah did a great job bringing The Apprentice to life. His voice is clear, smooth, and easy to listen to, with enough emotion to pull you into the story. He gave each character a distinct sound, especially Fionn and Daire, which made the emotional tension between them really stand out.
The Apprentice is a slow-burn mafia romance with just the right mix of tension, emotion, and danger. Fionn is such a relatable character—loyal, guarded, and quietly in love—and his chemistry with Daire is full of history and heat. The buildup between them had me hooked. M.D. Gregory did a great job balancing the romance with the suspense. If you’re into forbidden love, angsty vibes, and a bit of danger, definitely check this one out.
And what about the narrator!! Pheww! Keval Shah did a great job bringing The Apprentice to life. His voice is clear, smooth, and easy to listen to, with enough emotion to pull you into the story. He gave each character a distinct sound, especially Fionn and Daire, which made the emotional tension between them really stand out.
January 18, 2025
I can’t get enough if this series! This book brings readers back to the world of the Killough Company. We get to see what makes Fionn the man that he is. It was nice to get to see what he hides behind his persona that he shows the world. We see Fionn’s fascination with Daire turn into so many different things and finally to a deep connection for the two. It takes some drastic circumstances to get Daire to see what he stands to lose. I enjoyed getting to see the softer side of these men and the emotions that come with them. This story moves along nicely and is a good addition to this series.
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.
January 19, 2025
Daddy/boy, age gap
I'm so happy to be back in the world of the Killough Company.
Fionn really comes into his own as his uncle Sloan's apprentice, but it's not an easy thing.
He's got a lot to learn and it was great to see him developing a friendship with Connal.
Daire is reluctant to give Fionn anything more than something physical but Fionn won't give up.
Unfortunately it takes a very serious incident to push Daire to finally admit how much he cares for Fionn.
These two had sizzling chemistry together.
There's plenty of fast-paced action, danger and drama for all involved.
I'm so happy to be back in the world of the Killough Company.
Fionn really comes into his own as his uncle Sloan's apprentice, but it's not an easy thing.
He's got a lot to learn and it was great to see him developing a friendship with Connal.
Daire is reluctant to give Fionn anything more than something physical but Fionn won't give up.
Unfortunately it takes a very serious incident to push Daire to finally admit how much he cares for Fionn.
These two had sizzling chemistry together.
There's plenty of fast-paced action, danger and drama for all involved.
January 26, 2025
Amazing
As I read more and more of the book I became invested and captivated by Fionn and Daire. I loved how their relationship dynamics changed as the story progressed. I almost wet myself when Sloan found out Daire was treating the relationship with Fionn as casual sex. Sloan hot under the collar isn't a pretty sight, especially for the one he's focused on at the time. I liked how Sloan really acted like Fionn's father and treated him as such besides their bond and caring. The witt, humor, drama, and danger is all top notch and kept me turning pages. Looking forward to much more in N.G. I highly recommend this book.
As I read more and more of the book I became invested and captivated by Fionn and Daire. I loved how their relationship dynamics changed as the story progressed. I almost wet myself when Sloan found out Daire was treating the relationship with Fionn as casual sex. Sloan hot under the collar isn't a pretty sight, especially for the one he's focused on at the time. I liked how Sloan really acted like Fionn's father and treated him as such besides their bond and caring. The witt, humor, drama, and danger is all top notch and kept me turning pages. Looking forward to much more in N.G. I highly recommend this book.
January 9, 2025
A much anticipated story, we finally get to see Fionn and Diare find their happiness together.
A story told over a span of years with many familiar faces, this riveting read about Fionn, Sloan’s apprentice and Diare, his second in command is full of mob themes, torture, action, passion and Diare finally stepping up to recognize the connection between him and Fionn.
Whilst long in length, the plot follows the timeline of the previous stories and concentrates on the relationship of the main characters.
I’m so ready for Sloan and Conalls book now.
A story told over a span of years with many familiar faces, this riveting read about Fionn, Sloan’s apprentice and Diare, his second in command is full of mob themes, torture, action, passion and Diare finally stepping up to recognize the connection between him and Fionn.
Whilst long in length, the plot follows the timeline of the previous stories and concentrates on the relationship of the main characters.
I’m so ready for Sloan and Conalls book now.
January 11, 2025
This is book four and another really good addition to the Killough Company series which is part of the New Gothenburg universe, there was a long wait for this story but it works as it is set several years after The Boss and Fionn character has developed well and the situation between him and Daire has been happening for a long time and a lot more characters have came into play in the universe so the time gap just works well. Good story but hopefully we don’t have as long of a wait for the next book.
January 20, 2025
I am always happy to read about the Killough Company world and this story was fantastic! I adored Fionn and Daire finally came to his senses about loving him and I grew to love him too. I love Sloan and Conall and I was so happy that Fionn and Conall became friends. Fionn's shooting was very upsetting but I was relieved that he survived and he proved himself after taking over after Sloan was arrested. I am not a motorcycle fan but sex on a bike is so sexy!!! And Daire and Fionn getting married is wonderful. Really looking forward to the next book.
August 14, 2025
This review is for the audiobook🎧
rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
darkness: 🖤🖤🖤
feelings: 😭🥰😱🥵☠️😍🫠😡🤣🥹🤩😄
narration:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Apprentice is my first book by M.D. Gregory and I am thrilled! The intricate mob plot, the insight into the Killough family and the emotional rollercoaster ride with Fionn and Daire had me mesmerized! I desperately need to know more about this family!
Keval Shah is also new to me. I love his ability to give each character their own personality with his voice!
Absolutely recommend!
rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
darkness: 🖤🖤🖤
feelings: 😭🥰😱🥵☠️😍🫠😡🤣🥹🤩😄
narration:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Apprentice is my first book by M.D. Gregory and I am thrilled! The intricate mob plot, the insight into the Killough family and the emotional rollercoaster ride with Fionn and Daire had me mesmerized! I desperately need to know more about this family!
Keval Shah is also new to me. I love his ability to give each character their own personality with his voice!
Absolutely recommend!
January 12, 2025
Fionn is quite a bratty heir to be! Being Sloan's nephew is not all it is cracked up to be. But I did love that we got to experience Sloan's feelings for his nephew. Daire and his physical relationship with Fionn bring a whole added intensity with him working for Sloan. It all started off hot and I enjoyed that it actually did have a sweet sort of ending! I am obsessed with this world and all the men in it!
January 19, 2025
I love the NGU so much but really need to read everything in order. I felt a tad bit lost because it’s been so long since I’ve been in this universe that I don’t remember much 🤦♀️ but I didn’t have time for a refresher right now.
Highly recommend but probably best binge read in order… or not if you have a good memory 😉.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Highly recommend but probably best binge read in order… or not if you have a good memory 😉.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2025
I enjoyed this book a lot! Fionn and Daire are such a cute couple. But, i hated how Daire treated Fionn at the beginning😭
Fionn is one of my fav characters in the company and this book did great in showing his strengths. The character development is so good. And the daddy-boy dynamic was just *chef’s kiss*
I hope Aodhan also gets his book cause I’m dying to read more about the sociopath who dared to fuck with Sloan😅
Fionn is one of my fav characters in the company and this book did great in showing his strengths. The character development is so good. And the daddy-boy dynamic was just *chef’s kiss*
I hope Aodhan also gets his book cause I’m dying to read more about the sociopath who dared to fuck with Sloan😅
May 7, 2025
Not what I was expecting…
But I still really enjoyed this story. Finally we get Fionn’s story line and I was happily taken by surprise by how he was so bratty and called Daire “Daddy”. I love his soft heart and love for his family and friends. I’m glad I finally read this after reading the Irish Roulette series and not knowing what happens/ed with Sloan. I can’t wait to get Conall’s story in The Pet!
But I still really enjoyed this story. Finally we get Fionn’s story line and I was happily taken by surprise by how he was so bratty and called Daire “Daddy”. I love his soft heart and love for his family and friends. I’m glad I finally read this after reading the Irish Roulette series and not knowing what happens/ed with Sloan. I can’t wait to get Conall’s story in The Pet!
January 16, 2025
I absolutely loved this book - MD Gregory has this wonderful talent for writing gritty, emotional stories that grab you. Fionn and Daire’s story is a long time coming and it was worth every moment’s wait - sexy, well written, suspenseful and with the grit that the Killoughs are so well known for. Awesome addition to the New Gothenburg world!
April 11, 2024
Infuriatingly, this novel keeps getting pushed back. We’ve been waiting nearly four years for it at this point, as the authors write multiple new series and offshoots, while this novel, which lots of us have preordered, keeps getting pushed back and back. Losing hope this series will ever continue.
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