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She is the last woman I want to marry.
She's a prim princess, who doesn't belong in my world.
But I made a deal.
And I don't back out of my promises.
Even if the woman I agreed to marry drives me crazy,
I'll marry her.
But she's not ready to enter the world of Retribution Kings.

Kindle Edition

First published November 15, 2022

355 people are currently reading
356 people want to read

About the author

Ella Miles

83 books1,018 followers
Ella Miles writes sexy romance with strong females that could kick your butt if you piss them off, which they often do to the men that fall for them. She's currently living her own fairy tale near the Rocky Mountains with her high school sweetheart husband. Her heart is also taken by her goofy two year old black lab that is scared of everything, including her own shadow. Ella is the author of the Aligned series. Get a free book by visiting her website: EllaMiles.com

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5 stars
174 (52%)
4 stars
73 (21%)
3 stars
48 (14%)
2 stars
24 (7%)
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14 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
Profile Image for QuinnReads.
3,810 reviews220 followers
November 19, 2022
Runaway Wife

After Beckett and Ri tossed my heart around like an abused Raggedy Ann doll, I needed something a little bit lighter. Yeah, extra emphasis goes to 'little lighter' for what I got. This latest addition to the Truth and Lies universe is still dark and twisty, and kept me on pins and needles. It's fantastic, curve balls, cliffhangers, and all!

Ella Miles Retribution Kings bk 01 Lennox

Lennox and Rialta are exciting, infuriating, and a terrific pairing. They challenge each other and those around them. Did I mention combustible? Oh yeah, they've got that covered... in spades!

There’s no way I’ll ever fall in love again. It was too painful the first time.
-- Lennox Crane

Gah! Famous last words. 😂

I love watching their walls bend and fall as their feelings expand and contract. They really are a force to be reckoned with and I can't wait to see what comes next! The cliffhanger left me with so many questions that need to be answered. NOW!

Ella spins fantastic tales of late that have been spanning six books, but I'm excited that this is a duet. I'm not sure my poor heart could handle more. 🤔💥😉

Quick update: this is one of three duets that will make up this series. GAME CHANGER! I'm loving and hating this idea, at the moment. Ask me again how I feel after we get to book six.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for marina.
53 reviews1 follower
November 3, 2022
Damn you, Ella Miles. Damn. You.

People, I'm telling you, ALL books of Ella Miles are addicting reads. You can't put them down, and I swear to you, every page is filled with more and more stuff that has you sitting on the edge of your seat.

Lennox is no different.

From the first page, I had to know what was coming next. There was no putting my kindle down, and let me tell you, Ella is the QUEEN of making you think that yes, finally, our couple can start to be happy and.... BAM. They're just... Not. There were lots of times I wanted to scream at my kindle. Lots and lots and lots of times, but again, it was absolutely addicting.

Characters. Let me tell ya, I sure as heck MISSED these characters. Beckett and Ri's books (so far) were my absolute favourite, so having all these characters back brought lots of HAPPINESS (sort of, because you know, cliffhangers and shiz have me feeling all sorts of things).

Let's start with Rialta. I won't lie, her character took some warming up for me. I didn't automatically fall for her as I do most of Ella's characters, but that's because Rialta had (and still does, tbh), a lot of growing up to do. But Ella SHOWS this perfectly. We know that Rialta has thrown care to the wind more times than we can count in regards to her safety and those wanting to protect her, and I absolutely understand it's because she's never been able to LIVE, but still, I am excited to see how her character will grow in book two (it better happen, because again, that cliffy has me ripping my hair out).

Lennox. My broody, damaged, sexy Lennox. I'm in love with you. He is exactly how I pictured his character to be now that he has his own book, and it goes far BEYOND that. I cannot wait to learn about the mystery behind this man and what (WHO????) has made him as damaged as he is now. Damaged enough to not be able to love anymore (insert crying & feelings of betrayal here).

Honestly, I'm just going to stop now. I finished this book twenty minutes ago and it's safe to say I'm not ok and I don't think it should be legal for authors to give us books in a series one at a time. Or we could just make this illegal for Ella Miles, because frankly, she is the queen of cliffhangers (that ruin me). Goodbye.
Profile Image for Majan.
300 reviews2 followers
November 15, 2022
Ohhh their chemistry was sexy! If this book had hands this would have me wrapped all around its little finger. Ella Miles has a way of storytelling that just sucks you in and won't let go.

While it kept me in its grip, the story had elements that I am not keen on in a romance. This is a arranged marriage but there is OM drama since Rialta already has a boyfriend who she is desperately in love with. To be spoiler free that's all the details I will say, but for me it did undermine the credibility of the relationship development between Lennox and Rialta.

At this point it's chemistry and lust, and that aside it will take some convincing for me to buy into an authentic romance between Lennox and Rialta.

It also felt more like Rialta's book as she powered through it. But I liked Lennox, he's a fully layered, nuanced character. It doesn't seem like Rialta was written to be all that likeable, but so are a lot of h's in these kind of romances, so her character didn't bother me much and she has a lot of good characteristics too.

It probably would've enhanced my experience to have read the Retribution Games series first leading into this one. I may still go back while I wait for book two. Overall I enjoyed this - it was engaging with good pace and overall build on the storyline. I'm not sold on this couple yet. Time will tell.

I received an advance reader copy from Booksprout and I am leaving a review voluntarily. Opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Isabel Debono.
921 reviews14 followers
November 15, 2022
Well the retribution kings story continues with Lennox and Rialtas story.
Lennox would do anything to protect those he loves... even at the cost of his own.
This story just keeps getting better. I am totally hooked.
Manipulation, intrigue and secrets.
Plenty of action and twists galore.
This enemies to lovers will keep you turning the pages until the the last page.
This one ends in a jaw dropping cliffhanger! Cannot wait to see what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tammy.
9,120 reviews51 followers
November 15, 2022
Great start to a new series. Lennox made a deal to keep his family safe and now he must marry Rialta. Sparks begin to fly between them but someone wants her dead. Can he keep her safe? Fast-paced read with plenty of twists and turns, drama and suspense. The chemistry is sizzling and the story entertaining. I loved it.
2,121 reviews31 followers
November 6, 2022
I’ve been waiting patiently for Lennox and Rialta’s story and it did not disappoint. Lennox puts himself in a dangerous position offering himself up as the man to marry Rialta and with that of offering comes stipulations and if they aren’t met there are consequences. Rialta is a spitfire and will not heed her fathers orders, but what choice will she have but to marry Lennox. Lennox is plagued by demons from his past, and knows he can never live another. They will be tested, lines will be crossed, lives will be at stake and most of all whose heart will be broken when it all comes crashing down? Is Rialta playing him or trying to save him?
180 reviews10 followers
November 15, 2022
4.5 stars - Darkness, Desires, and Death

POV: dual
HUMOR: some
F BOMBS: yes
CLIFFHANGER: yes
NEW AUTHOR FOR ME: no
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS: panic/anxiety attacks, forced marriage, multiple mentions of rape, sadism, BDSM, a little knife play, secrets, explicit scenes, violence, bloody attacks/shoot-outs, spanking, exhibitionism

CHARACTERS: Grumpy, monstrous Lennox Crane and bratty Mob princess Rialta Corsi (21)

OVERALL: Another hot one by Ella Miles - Recommend this dark romance!

Mafia enemies to lovers. Lennox has one year to seduce Rialta. But everyone has secrets.

PROS:
1. Started off a bit slower than the others I've read from this author, but once it gets going - it's good!
2. Their sexy times are explicit, steamy, and hot!
3. Love a growling, protective, possessive, strong, tatted up Lennox.
4. Many great characters (can't wait to read the books on Hayes).

CONS:
1. Didn't care for FMC until the last 1/3 of the book. She keeps making the same mistakes/putting other people's lives at risk (ex. her pregnant sister) and acts more like a teen than a 21-yr old.
2. Cliffhanger - To be fair, I knew this going in since the author states this in the book blurb. I just hate waiting, but I love Ella Miles' writing so I read it anyway.

NOTEWORTHY:
1. Favorite part is when Lennox and Rialta do little things to get back at each other in his apartment about 1/3 into the book. Very cute and funny!
2. Like the reference to "The Notebook" characters.
3. Despite the secrets they keep from each other, they do learn to trust each other - which is huge.

NOTES:
1. The Retribution Kings Series is a spinoff of the Retribution Games Series which is connected to Truth or Lies. Recommend reading for a more complete understanding of all the characters and their world.
2. As of now, this is book 1 of 6 in a series (books 1 & 2 are about Lennox and Rialta; books 3 & 4 Hayes & Lilith; books 5 & 6 Gage & Nova)
3. I haven't had a chance to read the Retribution Games series yet.


I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jesi Blanco.
Author 0 books69 followers
November 16, 2022

I NEED BOOK 2, LIKE TODAY.

Y'all---No. OHMYGOD. I have not felt this way over a book in such a long time. That cliffhanger. God, I was not expecting that twist. Everything was going so well. WTH. *screaming*

I need book 2. I need to know if she was faking it. I NEED TO KNOW. The suspense is killing me. Like it just came out of nowhere. I thought everything was fine now.

Their banter was so good though. The suffering I went through having to read all about her and her boyfriend was worth it cause I got her with her husband 🥺😌

I can't wait for Rialta to come out!!

𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕:
• arranged marriage/marriage of convenience
• light bdsm elements
• boy obsessed
• she has a boyfriend she can "keep"
• consent & praise
• dark and broody mmc
• dark romance
• dubcon
• enemies with benefits/to lovers
• forced proximity
• love triangle
• mafia romance
• one bed
• plot twist
• unrequited/unwanted/second best
Profile Image for Terri Zumbrook.
2,800 reviews21 followers
November 21, 2022
I did not see that coming. LENNOX is hot, infuriating, and full of action and suspense. Rialta is a pistol and Lennox is a caveman locked up in a vault that only Rialta seems to have the key to.

The arranged marriage trope is not at all new, but Ella Miles plays with our emotions in new and interesting ways. While Rialta is a bit of a standard sassy mafia tough girl, it is Lennox that does what we least expect him to do. They are fighting their feelings for each other and have explosive chemistry at the same time.

The only time my interest wavered was in the beginning of the story. The task of explaining the connections between these characters from different books was a challenging one, and I can forgive that it was a touch tedious when I was presented with such a compelling story afterwards.

Cliffhanger…bam!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Donna reads Romance.
1,072 reviews44 followers
November 4, 2022
A wonderful blend of sexy and action!!
Lennox and Rialta’s story is positively gripping, alluring and intriguing. The sexual tension between these two characters is so freaking high your on pins and needles waiting for the moment they will explode with their burning desires.
So if your looking for an angsty love-hate story with captivating and enticing characters then this book will give you all of that along with drama, danger and hot steamy sexy times.
A fascinating and tantalizing story with engaging and strong characters.
Remarkably written Ella🙌🏻❤️
Profile Image for Cheryl   Graham-Petit.
4,124 reviews28 followers
November 15, 2022
Lennox, the first book in the Retrubution Kings duet, is a fast-paced enemies-to-lovers mafia romance packed with sexual tension, drama, mystery, danger, action, angst, explosive chemistry, and hot steamy scenes. Author Ella Miles pulls you in from the first page and keeps you captive till the end.

I volunteered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for T’Lynn.
157 reviews26 followers
November 5, 2022
Lennox is a man who doesn’t trust easily and he’s got a plan to protect those he loves… marry the daughter of a Mafia boss.

Rialta is a lot more that he bargained for. She’s reckless but she also cares about protecting the people she loves.

They could be a perfect match if they could just get on the same page! The book ends with a cliffhanger and I want to know what happens next!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
2,143 reviews196 followers
November 15, 2022
Action packed and so exciting! Ella Miles has given these Retribution Kings a very sensational story to add to this saga!
Lennox has decided that he will marry Rialta, but Corsi is making him jump through hoops first, and he is determined to protect his family.
This couple is angsty, passionate, and so reactive it is off the charts hot! Lennox ends in a cliffhanger and I cannot wait for more!
Profile Image for Merry Jelks-Emmanuel.
13.9k reviews156 followers
November 15, 2022
This book sizzles! Lennox made a deal and to carry it through he has to marry Rialta. Although he is skeptical, he honors his promise. The sparks between these two is off the chain but someone wants Rialta dead. Will Lennox be able marry and to keep her safe? This story drew me in and had me all caught up in their drama. I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Madeleine.
4,403 reviews10 followers
November 15, 2022
One word. Fantastic!! Part of the retribution kings series And I cannot wait to discover more books in this spell binding wonderfully written story.
Profile Image for Suzanne Normandeau Legault.
407 reviews6 followers
November 7, 2022
Omg, this new series is AMAZING! Just as powerful as Retribution Games, this first book Lennox will keep you on the edge of your seat. More intriguing scenarios, overwhelming manipulations you can’t run away from. This is Lennox’s story where he makes a deal with the devil; Rialta’s father Vincent Corsi . He puts his life on the line in order to keep the ones he loves safe. He agrees to marry Rialta for the better reason of staying alive and the worst to losing his life. This beautiful dark romance will captivate, enthral and obsess you into loving the dark world of the mafia life! Ella’s writing allows you to feel it ALL!! A must read new series!
Profile Image for Gwen Smith-leak.
352 reviews6 followers
November 12, 2022
Lennox makes a deal with Rialta him and give him power. She is not happy because she in love with somebody else. She has been around him because of Becket and Ri. The Love /Hate that is going on with Lennox and her is steamy, dangerous and funny at times.Lennox tries to protect her and keep her safe. Rialta is reckless. and didn’t see the harm until it was too late. Lennox carries. A lot of damage. He wants her to falls for him he never says he wiil fall for here The truth about the two is that giving a chance with each other they wiil be wonderful together. This is amazing story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Gladys.
14.2k reviews165 followers
November 7, 2022
This book gets this new series off to an enticing start. Lennox and Rialta's story is intense, tension filled and packed with juicy drama. Add in ample amounts of heat and danger and you quickly find yourself glued to the pages and reading as often and as fast as you can. This is my volitional, candid review.
Profile Image for Debbie Brown.
2,081 reviews17 followers
November 14, 2022
This story of the Retribution Kings takes place where the last book left off where Beckett and River were granted by Vincent Corsi to marry, but only if he had a viable husband for his real daughter Rialto Corsi. We also have Gage, Hayes, Beckett and River still in the thick of things, still watching each other’s backs against the enemy. Lennox knows the only way to keep his friends and family safe is to marry Rialto, he never thought to marry, he didn’t want to marry, and he never wanted to be leader, especially a mafia crime boss when Vincent dies. This story started out fast and never slowed down. We have Rialto who was taken from her home at a young age to be protected from a killer who killed her mother and brother, she was raised outside of the mafia. I love how she stands toe to toe with Lennox, she hates him, he’s taken her freedom away, her only request is Kit, her love, and he’s all she wants. She doesn’t care about anyone else’s problems. Lennox has just made a deal with the devil, one that will most likely see him dead at the end of one year, he’s definitely a suicide mission to find the killer and to love his wife, he’ll never love.
You can feel the attraction between Lennox and Ri, the sexual tension every time Lennox is near her, he definitely pushes all the right button to make her hate him even more. Things get pretty steamy when he proves she’s doesn’t hate him as much as she would like too when she can’t deny the sexual tension between them. You know what they say there’s a fine line between love and hate. She man love a boy, but she needs a man to control her, her desires and her passion. There’s nothing better than an enemy to lover's story and this one doesn’t disappoint. This does end in a cliffhanger so beware there’s a second book and I can’t wait to see where the story from here! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for SizzsleFizzleBooks82.
145 reviews2 followers
November 13, 2022
This is my first read by this author and I will definitely be reading more! This is fast paced, action packed enemies to lovers, mafia world based first book in a duet. To warn, this book ends on a cliff hanger.
I do not think it matters that I had not read the previous books relating to the other characters, I could follow the characters and there was enough detail and back story provided to make sure you feel on top of story as you read.
There is a huge amount of push and pull throughout between Lennox, the quiet, untrusting but natural protector and Rialta, the feisty, headstrong but loyal daughter of a mafia boss. Just as you think they are making progress and getting closer there is a twist that draws them back.
Ultimately Lennox has put everything on the line to marry Rialta, the reason to me is not yet clear other than he is protecting those he loves with potentially the biggest sacrifice. Rialta is part of this plan, though she doesn't want to be, but underneath she has had a difficult past and is herself simply fighting for survival.
The story is full of intrigue and mystery, I could not tell who is playing who and at what game or how they can get out of the ending of this book without it all in tatters and hearts shattered. Ella has written both characters so well that I am already routing for them to get a HEA, as there is so much chemistry between them and it simmers and bubbles all through the book.
This is well written, with drama and suspense and some sizzling heat, bring on book two!
I received a free copy of this via Book sprout and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Loverulesall_books.
261 reviews6 followers
October 9, 2023
Oh boy.... This story ends on a right cliffhanger! Ella, how could you?
Once I started reading this, I completely devoured it in about a day! It is crazy madness love! ❤️‍🔥

The story starts with Lennox proposing a deal with Vincent Corsi (Don) to be the successor/heir to the powerful Corsi family in order to keep his friends/family safe. This means he has to marry Rialta - they both don't like each other. However, people want them dead, hence they have to work together if they want any chance of survival.

I wasn't a fan of Rialta at the start of this book as she was acting so immature, rebelling and putting others in danger regardless of knowing who her dad was and those after her blood. Luckily she calm down some when she realised the dangers she was putting her sister River though.

However, the chemistry she shared with Lennox was out of this world ❤️‍🔥🥵🔥 I loved their shared bickering, trying to up one another and get under each others skin but it only made them want each other more. I did feel for poor Kit, but Rialta did the right thing in letting him go.

Lennox.... Wow!!! We get to see a glimpse of why he is so guarded with his feelings (past gf? - we don't know who exactly yet from this book) who must have died as he 'failed' to protect her. However, it is easy to see that Rialta is smashing through them walls he has built around his heart ❤️

I seriously cannot wait to read Rialta, which concludes to 2 part story! Will they finally get to have their happy ending? Gahhhhhh!!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
578 reviews5 followers
November 21, 2022
4.5 stars! A great start!

Lennox is the first installment in the Retribution Kings Series, book one in a duet and a spinoff on the Retribution Games Series connected with the Truth or Lies world.

This is part one in Lennox and Rialta' story, an enemies-to-lovers grumpy/monster vs. spitfire/bratty mafia princess, action-packed tale full of twists, turns, turnarounds and everything in between.

Lennox has one thing in mind and it is to make sure his family is safe and protected. He offers himself to marry Rialta under certain conditions to oblige and well assured of the consequences in case said conditions won't be met. He has one year to seduce Rialta and a lot to deal with because lots of things separate them like secrets and secret agendas, demons of the past, goals and ways to get there.

What I loved the most was Lennox becoming so protective and possesive toward Rialta, something that complemented so well his alpha growling male demeanor and, besides all they kept from one another, they learned to trust each other. As well a great slew of secondary characters that give reality and sense to the plot. I just had wished for Rialta to behave hersekf more like a 21 year-old than a teenager and stoped to make poor decisions.
In this grueling, chaotic and gritty world, their antagonism and the things to get back at each other put a tone down and a semblance of levity to all the mayhem going around. Their momenta are spicy, explicit, kinky and unappologetic as well as funny and good natured!

Retribution Kings Series starts great!
208 reviews4 followers
November 18, 2022
This story ends on a cliffhanger so be ware in case you are not into that! I was not ready for the book to end where it did, it had gotten to a pretty intense part and all I could think was you have got to be kidding, I have to wait to find out what happens!! This story is the first in the series but there is another series it is spun off of. Lennox and Rialta are getting married because Lennox suggested it to her father. Rialta is not happy about it. I had a hard time liking Rialta for a lot of the book because she seemed a selfish spoiled brat. But she also wasn't afraid to live her life, unfortunately others get caught up in the crossfire. The sparks between the two of them are hot. There is more going on with Lennox that I can hardly wait to read about. As I kept reading, I kept thinking why, what's really going on, what's the reason. I can hardly wait to read the next book to find out what happens. There is action, violence and even some pretty good humorous parts to the story. I did not read the other series that this book was spun off from and so I felt like I didn't know the other characters in the story as well as someone who had read them would have. If I could do it over, I would read Retribution Games the other series first then this one.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
919 reviews4 followers
November 21, 2022
Secrets, Deception & Lies

Lennox has his hands full when Rialta, the young wild spitfire bucks authority, puts herself & others who are there to protect her, into dangerous situations. Their agreement once they are married is flawed as there are even more road blocks thrown their way in proving their arranged marriage is doomed from the start. They both have secrets which leaves us finishing this novel with an explosive climatic ending!!! It just blows me away & leaves me hanging on with what's going to happen next?!!!

In true Ella Miles style, she leaves you gripping your novel, turning the pages, hungry for more on how these 2 people are thrown together in a loveless marriage & will Lennox and/or Rialta die when the one year contract is up or can they find a HEA with the deception that arises at the end of this one? Who will come out the winner in this story? Will Lennox be able to find the killers who killed 1/2 of Rialta's family years ago? Better pick this one up & catch up fast as the next one has to let us know on what's going to happen. I can't wait to find out the end result on this series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,171 reviews7 followers
December 9, 2022
Instead of marrying Rialta Corsi, Beckett fell in love with River Corsi (Ri) who is Vincent Corsi’s adopted daughter. They got married leaving Vincent without someone for Rialta. Beckett and Ri are the main security for Rialta. Lennox, Hayes and Gage are brothers in arms who help Beckett and Ri.

Lennox Crane goes to Vincent Corsi who is a powerful mafia Don. He proposes that he marry and protect Rialta. Vincent is dying of cancer but needs Rialta safe, married and wants her to have a baby to carry on the Corsi name. Vincent will let Lennox marry Rialta but there are stipulations before Vincent will make Lennox the new leader of the Corsi Family. Lennox has one year to fall in love with Rialta or find the man who killed Vincent’s wife and other children. If he fails, then Vincent will kill him.

Lennox agrees because he wants to keep everyone safe.

What is Lennox hiding from his past that is motivating him to do this deal? Why is it really so important for him to head the Corsi Mafia? Will Rialta help him or hurt him?

I was excited to delve into the characters of Lennox and Rialta and Ella Miles did not disappoint. There was action and emotions clashing throughout the book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,747 reviews42 followers
November 16, 2022
This is book one in The Retribution Kings series and it starts Lennox and Rialta's story and omg what a great start to this series and definitely a must read. Lennox and Rialta are in an arranged marriage which neither want but still go through and they have such strong and intense chemistry between them that it sizzles off the pages even though they love to hate each other but you no that when they eventually come together it will be absolutely explosive as you can feel all there tension. The twists and turns keep coming along with danger, suspense, drama, action, and secrets that have you turning the pages while holding on to the edge of your seat wondering what would happen next and then you get a cliff hanger ending that makes you want to shout out loud because you need the next book now. The storyline pulled you in right from the start and kept your attention throughout and it was so addictive which is just what you would expect from Ella Miles who is an amazing author and writer and she certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention and her book's are definitely worth reading and you will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Kelly  DeMarco.
1,939 reviews5 followers
November 21, 2022
Action packed mafia arranged marriage enemies to lovers steamy romance
Lennox (Retribution Kings Book 1) by Ella Miles is an action and detail packed first installment of this series. Lennox and Rialta are enemies of a sort brought together through an arranged marriage. While Lennox orchestrates the arrangement, Rialta is not on board and engages in all sorts of mischief in acts of rebellion. As their story evolves, some questions are answered while also prompting more!
The plot of this first book has me intrigued. After reading several of this author's series in the past, guessing is pointless, but I seem to really enjoy sitting on the edge of my seat! It wouldn't be an Ella Miles book if there aren't twists around every corner and encounter. At times, it is absolutely diabolical what she puts her characters through!
Overall, Lennox and Rialta kept me turning the pages until the last gasp of disbelief and feelings of outrage at the end. I'm on the hook now and impatiently tapping my toe waiting for book 2!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Profile Image for Coastie  Mom.
1,450 reviews7 followers
December 10, 2022
OMG! I just love Ella Miles! I cannot get enough of her books, and I love how each time she draws me in from the beginning and then leaves us on a cliffhanger. But I have finally learned that things are not always as they seem! Lennox does what he needs to do to help protect Bennett and River. Even going so far as to offer his hand to Vincent Corsi to marry his daughter Rialta. But of course, Lennox has a reason and a secret agenda as to why he needs to marry her. Rialta is a spoiled young woman who acts like a child at times. She does lots of foolish things that puts her family and friends in potential danger. Or is she playing a game with her own agenda? Just when you think you have this figured out, you are totally wrong, and things are twisted in a whole different direction!

Secrets, lies, betrayal, passion, drama, and danger are plenty. With lives at stake, and the crossing of lines, how do you know who to root for? Great job once again Ms Miles! Now I am going to sit her patiently for the next 4 months while I wait to see what you have up your sleeve! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
937 reviews13 followers
November 15, 2022
I have been eagerly awaiting Lennox & Rialta’s story! I was excited to get to know both of these characters better and see what they are really about. Lennox was his usual grumpy, standoff-ish self but there is something about him that draws you in. There is definitely more to his story and I hope it all comes out in the next book! Rialta was a little juvenile at times and made some stupid and selfish decisions so it took a bit to warm up to her. I did like her courageous nature though.
It was great getting to see all the other guys and Ri again. I'm glad they are all still close and still involved in each other's lives.
This is a quick read because the story is pretty fast paced. There is plenty of action and it keeps you guessing on what's going to happen next. It's well written and had me hooked from the very beginning. I'm really looking forward to the next book because that ending was nuts! I would definitely recommend it!
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2,087 reviews17 followers
November 17, 2022
We know Lennox from reading Beckett’s and River’s stories. Now, he is offering to marry Rialta and take Vincent’s place when the time comes. He suffers from a tragedy in the past that makes him incapable of loving someone. He has a secret and plan in place for doing the things he is. Rialta is furious she has to marry Lennox. She already has love for another man. Lennox makes a deal with her though. He will have to survive many tests from the Corsi men to prove his worth. Their lives is like riding a roller coaster; always in danger of being killed, kidnapped, or tortured. River, especially should not be one of the guards right now, but they have no choice. Proving his devotion to Corsi, will put a target on his back with the Retribution Kings. With only a handful of people he can trust, Lennox is just biding his time…but has it run out? Another explosive action filled book in the Mafia world of Ella Miles~
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