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A Syndicate of Blood and Chaos #1
Born in Blood
All they had to do was accept her deal and Shadow would give them everything they could ever want.
Despite the privilege of being a mafia prince, Damien Chaos still lacked the one thing he desperately needed:
Absolute power and control.
If he wanted that, Shadow was the only answer.
Unfortunately the Shadow was a ghost and owed his allegiance to no one. Kidnapping his lead scientist was the only answer.
If Damien could possess her, if he could ignore how badly he wanted to carve a symphony of obsession into her skin…he could win the kingdom that was rightfully his.
They may call him cruel and psychotic.
Manipulative and ruthless.
But he refused to fail, because Damien was better at this game than anyone.
That is, until he met her.
* * *
All power comes with a cost, and that price was their pain and sacrifice.
The pretty mafia prince and his boys may think they have what it takes, but they could never break her.
Desdemona was a ghost - a shadow, and the mafia could never get their hands on her.
Until him.
Damien, Aeron, and Kaito were too beautiful for her to resist. All she had to do was let them think they were in control. Then they’d fall right into her trap.
They would become hers.
All three of them.
For the first time in their lives Damien, Aeron and Kaito would be forced to learn what true chaos really was.
This is a reverse harem mafia romance where the villain gets the girl. It has some dark themes including manipulation, stalking, kidnapping, and violence. This story also has MM.
Despite the privilege of being a mafia prince, Damien Chaos still lacked the one thing he desperately needed:
Absolute power and control.
If he wanted that, Shadow was the only answer.
Unfortunately the Shadow was a ghost and owed his allegiance to no one. Kidnapping his lead scientist was the only answer.
If Damien could possess her, if he could ignore how badly he wanted to carve a symphony of obsession into her skin…he could win the kingdom that was rightfully his.
They may call him cruel and psychotic.
Manipulative and ruthless.
But he refused to fail, because Damien was better at this game than anyone.
That is, until he met her.
* * *
All power comes with a cost, and that price was their pain and sacrifice.
The pretty mafia prince and his boys may think they have what it takes, but they could never break her.
Desdemona was a ghost - a shadow, and the mafia could never get their hands on her.
Until him.
Damien, Aeron, and Kaito were too beautiful for her to resist. All she had to do was let them think they were in control. Then they’d fall right into her trap.
They would become hers.
All three of them.
For the first time in their lives Damien, Aeron and Kaito would be forced to learn what true chaos really was.
This is a reverse harem mafia romance where the villain gets the girl. It has some dark themes including manipulation, stalking, kidnapping, and violence. This story also has MM.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2022
601 people are currently reading
1461 people want to read
About the author
Emma Dean
83 books695 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
July 29, 2022
I could not put this book down. Anytime a FMC is incharge you know it's going to be good. I seriously can't wait to read more from this author. Looking forward to Book 2
November 23, 2022
3.5
Nothing original….but entertaining ☺️
Nothing original….but entertaining ☺️
September 16, 2022
This was interesting 🤔
This is the first reverse harem book I've read that contains a M/M relationship (actually not yet, they're still figuring it out)
The Female Lead was a badass and actually kinda crazy and missing a bolt iykwim
The story was okay, some phrases and sentences I found them kinda corny but it was good nonetheless.
This is the first reverse harem book I've read that contains a M/M relationship (actually not yet, they're still figuring it out)
The Female Lead was a badass and actually kinda crazy and missing a bolt iykwim
The story was okay, some phrases and sentences I found them kinda corny but it was good nonetheless.
June 5, 2022
I devoured this in one sitting and this is from someone who does not typically enjoy contemporary stories (I actually did think this was a PNR before reading). Each character has a level of insanity that I absolutely loved. I cannot remember the last time I felt such instalove towards a FMC, but I'm here for it and I cannot wait for the next book.
Overall, it was a well written, quick read. The writing was a bit confusing at times but not enough to detract from the story.
Overall, it was a well written, quick read. The writing was a bit confusing at times but not enough to detract from the story.
June 10, 2023
I was in doubt i actually liked Reverse harem and mafia books. The one`s i`ve read so far, has been meh. BUT THIS! THIS! THIS WAS SO EPIC! I can`t even!
I mean it had tons of trigger warnings, and one should also be careful of those. But this was so freaking good!
Kaito is adorable puppy.
Damien is the devil.
Arsen is Awesome.
Adam is interesting.
Kira is badass.
I mean it had tons of trigger warnings, and one should also be careful of those. But this was so freaking good!
Kaito is adorable puppy.
Damien is the devil.
Arsen is Awesome.
Adam is interesting.
Kira is badass.
June 5, 2022
I sort of went in blind to this book, only knowing it was a mafia, reverse harem, dark romance. I’m glad I picked it up! This book is not perfect by any means, but was a super entertaining read nonetheless and I’m looking forward to book 2.
Things I loved:
✨Our FMC is probably one of the most badass of all the books I’ve ever read. She IS Shadow, and she’s powerful all while concealing her true identity. She doesn’t cower down or hide, she fiercely protects those she cares for and stands for what she believes, and she does it all while looking like a goddess. Seriously, Kira’s amazing.
✨The overall concept. I love that Kira’s the baddest in the land and everyone else needs her. I also think it’s absolutely hilarious that the guys went to kidnap her to try and get information on Shadow, while Kira (who IS Shadow) intentionally allows them to kidnap her and then poisons them by kissing them.
✨The loyalty. The loyalty that Kira and her brother Adam have for each other, and the loyalty that Damien and the guys have for each other is amazing. I really love seeing that sort of care and love between characters.
Things I’m not fond of:
✨Insta-love. That’s basically what we get in this book, and even though I can concede that Kira’s kept the guys in her sights for a while, the guys have never heard of her. So it’s just a little annoying.
✨The book really focuses on these initial meetings and interactions between Kira & her guys. This is fine and all, but I feel like we’re lacking on the outside elements and the overarching plot we’ll have in this series. There’s a lot going on in the background, especially considering the roles each character has in their respective circle in society. We don’t get to fully explore this in the book which is a little frustrating. I want to clarify; we see our main characters in action doing their thing, but we don’t necessarily get a clear dynamic with the outside enemies for most of the book. I wish it was a little longer so we could see a little more of these interactions with other characters. For example, we know Kira was at one point kidnapped and assaulted but we don’t know the circumstances at all.
All in all, I would recommend this book if it sounds like your thing and, despite some protests that I think it could be longer and with less insta-love, I did enjoy it.
3.5/5⭐️
Things I loved:
✨Our FMC is probably one of the most badass of all the books I’ve ever read. She IS Shadow, and she’s powerful all while concealing her true identity. She doesn’t cower down or hide, she fiercely protects those she cares for and stands for what she believes, and she does it all while looking like a goddess. Seriously, Kira’s amazing.
✨The overall concept. I love that Kira’s the baddest in the land and everyone else needs her. I also think it’s absolutely hilarious that the guys went to kidnap her to try and get information on Shadow, while Kira (who IS Shadow) intentionally allows them to kidnap her and then poisons them by kissing them.
✨The loyalty. The loyalty that Kira and her brother Adam have for each other, and the loyalty that Damien and the guys have for each other is amazing. I really love seeing that sort of care and love between characters.
Things I’m not fond of:
✨Insta-love. That’s basically what we get in this book, and even though I can concede that Kira’s kept the guys in her sights for a while, the guys have never heard of her. So it’s just a little annoying.
✨The book really focuses on these initial meetings and interactions between Kira & her guys. This is fine and all, but I feel like we’re lacking on the outside elements and the overarching plot we’ll have in this series. There’s a lot going on in the background, especially considering the roles each character has in their respective circle in society. We don’t get to fully explore this in the book which is a little frustrating. I want to clarify; we see our main characters in action doing their thing, but we don’t necessarily get a clear dynamic with the outside enemies for most of the book. I wish it was a little longer so we could see a little more of these interactions with other characters. For example, we know Kira was at one point kidnapped and assaulted but we don’t know the circumstances at all.
All in all, I would recommend this book if it sounds like your thing and, despite some protests that I think it could be longer and with less insta-love, I did enjoy it.
3.5/5⭐️
June 30, 2022
So wow, that just happened. I am now obsessed with this series by Emma Dean. I have been on a darker read kick lately and this sure fit the bill. Did I also mention that it is mafia as well. I could not read this fast enough.
So yeah if you are like me and just enjoy a good read with the mafia and the guys are all physcho and twisted. This book is for you, rush to go and get it. But I would recommend setting aside some time to read this, because once you start. You are not going to want to stop. Yep one sitting for me.
Emma is a really good author, so I was game with this, but I can honestly say that she has stepped up level with this one. This will also be bought in paperback and going on my shelf.
Need more please.
So yeah if you are like me and just enjoy a good read with the mafia and the guys are all physcho and twisted. This book is for you, rush to go and get it. But I would recommend setting aside some time to read this, because once you start. You are not going to want to stop. Yep one sitting for me.
Emma is a really good author, so I was game with this, but I can honestly say that she has stepped up level with this one. This will also be bought in paperback and going on my shelf.
Need more please.
July 26, 2022
Can't Wait for More
This book is awesome. I love these crazy characters. I can't wait for the next book. So excited to see how this harem comes together and takes over the world.
This book is awesome. I love these crazy characters. I can't wait for the next book. So excited to see how this harem comes together and takes over the world.
September 27, 2022
Plot ⭐️⭐️.5
Spice 🌶️🌶️
3rd person POV - switches between our MCs
Tropes: mafia, female killer, hidden identity, overprotective older brother, why-choose
This was fast but fun and I'm loving it even though the plot is kinda all over the place. I'm not sure why the guys are investigating the Lift issue so hard (Lift aka Lyft) where they found the company making and distributing rape porn. It almost seemed like it was just something to give them an additional task and add to the plot but it just doesn't make much sense.
I'm loving the relationship dynamics so far as well. As of right now, there's a whole lot of obsession and lust and I'm hoping it will turn into love but so far, Kira and Kai are just feral for each other and it's awesome. I'm getting strong incest vibes though because Kira seems to have the hots for her brother (and vice versa) and yes, I know how that sounds. They are attached at the hip, live together, Adam is constantly touching her or giving her a kiss on the cheek, opening doors for her (to the point where she waits in the car for him to open the door), has her name tattooed over his heart... and every time Kira thinks about him, it's about her "beautiful brother" or something to that effect... She's stated the only similarities are that they both have blue eyes and brown hair... honestly I wouldn't be shocked if the author throws a twist in there showing they aren't related so they can finally fuck... Ignoring that (lol) the spice is pretty hot though some of the logistics doesn't make much sense. Looking forward to book 2!
Spice 🌶️🌶️
3rd person POV - switches between our MCs
Tropes: mafia, female killer, hidden identity, overprotective older brother, why-choose
This was fast but fun and I'm loving it even though the plot is kinda all over the place. I'm not sure why the guys are investigating the Lift issue so hard (Lift aka Lyft) where they found the company making and distributing rape porn. It almost seemed like it was just something to give them an additional task and add to the plot but it just doesn't make much sense.
I'm loving the relationship dynamics so far as well. As of right now, there's a whole lot of obsession and lust and I'm hoping it will turn into love but so far, Kira and Kai are just feral for each other and it's awesome. I'm getting strong incest vibes though because Kira seems to have the hots for her brother (and vice versa) and yes, I know how that sounds. They are attached at the hip, live together, Adam is constantly touching her or giving her a kiss on the cheek, opening doors for her (to the point where she waits in the car for him to open the door), has her name tattooed over his heart... and every time Kira thinks about him, it's about her "beautiful brother" or something to that effect... She's stated the only similarities are that they both have blue eyes and brown hair... honestly I wouldn't be shocked if the author throws a twist in there showing they aren't related so they can finally fuck... Ignoring that (lol) the spice is pretty hot though some of the logistics doesn't make much sense. Looking forward to book 2!
June 20, 2022
Delicious and twisted
Definitely enjoyed this crazy madness and its complicated and twisted cast of complete psychos. I definitely seen where Some of this was going, and I truly have my favorite character, which is a side character (adam). But nonetheless, this book was definitely still captivating and intriguing. I love a hard-core chick, who finds herself a dark delicious prince! But this one finds three. And they are twisted, vicious and corrupt just like her. Its a true match made in hell, and im definitely here for it all. I really hope to see Damien follow through with his last parting declaration. I love our assassin already, and his beast is not to far from that. But Damien and his tantrums really had me considering if it was better to actually kill him as Adam suggested? He's really yet to impress me as everyone else has. Definitely hoping for more blood and death as well, I'm a sicko who thrives and giggles with the violence I read. What can I say, it does it for me. Definitely will be waiting for this second book eagerly.
Definitely enjoyed this crazy madness and its complicated and twisted cast of complete psychos. I definitely seen where Some of this was going, and I truly have my favorite character, which is a side character (adam). But nonetheless, this book was definitely still captivating and intriguing. I love a hard-core chick, who finds herself a dark delicious prince! But this one finds three. And they are twisted, vicious and corrupt just like her. Its a true match made in hell, and im definitely here for it all. I really hope to see Damien follow through with his last parting declaration. I love our assassin already, and his beast is not to far from that. But Damien and his tantrums really had me considering if it was better to actually kill him as Adam suggested? He's really yet to impress me as everyone else has. Definitely hoping for more blood and death as well, I'm a sicko who thrives and giggles with the violence I read. What can I say, it does it for me. Definitely will be waiting for this second book eagerly.
June 11, 2022
The queen and her men ♟️
I love Emma dean's paranormal book and I'm an so happy she is diving into contemporary.
We learn of alot of the big players in this book. The primary focus is on Kira and Adam who are part of the shadow empire and Damien, Kai and Aeron who are part of Chaos MC.
I absolutely loved all the characters from the very beginning. Read the whole book in one sitting. The author did a great job at the cat and mouse game always had you wondering what was gonna happen next. And the guys 🤤 could not get enough....and Kira absolutely held her own and then some. Kira had a strong support system in her brother Adam hopefully he get his own story down the line as well.
I love Emma dean's paranormal book and I'm an so happy she is diving into contemporary.
We learn of alot of the big players in this book. The primary focus is on Kira and Adam who are part of the shadow empire and Damien, Kai and Aeron who are part of Chaos MC.
I absolutely loved all the characters from the very beginning. Read the whole book in one sitting. The author did a great job at the cat and mouse game always had you wondering what was gonna happen next. And the guys 🤤 could not get enough....and Kira absolutely held her own and then some. Kira had a strong support system in her brother Adam hopefully he get his own story down the line as well.
June 8, 2022
Finally!! A book that promises a strong heroine and actually delivers! She doesn’t roll over and become a weaklin when the guys get close to her. She’s strong and is the master manipulator in this story. She wanted the guys and she got them without sacrificing her needs, wants, desires, OR her kingdom!
July 3, 2022
WHEN IS BOOK 2 COMING OUT
Oh my goodness this book. I loooooovvvveeeedddd it so so much! This was a dark mafia paranormal romance which was just brilliantly-written. I truly have no words except that I liked this book more than I antticipated. Everything sent chills on my spine and made me bite my nails. It's not just the smut that got my heart beat raced, but the plot itself, which was fast-paced and thrilling. I couldn't stop reading.
Kira made the list of my top fave fmcs of all time. When writing a strong fmc, this was how it should be done. She wasn't just a badass because she was stubborn, that's a poor excuse. She was independent, strong, cunning, cutthroat. I really admire her character. So far from being a strong fmc who doesn't have the necessary background which Rika has. She has past trauma and I'm not saying that it was needed for a main character to be well-layered. What I'm saying was that it was shown how Rika came to be who she was, it wasn't just written like "she was like this just because" (ehem, ehem, Den of Vipers, anyone? lmfao).
My favorite relationship was of Rika and her brother, next to that was hers with Kai. Arsen Kaito my poor baby. He deserved all the love in the world and I swore if Aeron didn't get his sht sorted out for my baby by the second book, I'd riot. Aeron was okay, I mean, it was like he was the neutral grounds in which everyone else feels safe. He tried to pacify everyone and oh boy, does he need to.
Kaito was just as destructive and psychotic as Kira and that's what makes them perfect for each other. Of course, it was Kira who centers all the guys. For them to all come together as one, they needed Kira. She was like the one who bonds them together and makes the realize the depth of their affections for one another. Well, that is if Damien would only stop being such an a** and give in to Kira lmfao most of the times he was being a jerk just because he can't stand a girl besting him. I mean, come on, what is this, Damien? Do you live in the past? F*ck the patriarchy, I say to you. The tension between him and Kira was hot but his attitude made him my least favorite guy. He better grovel big time in the second book or else.
Suffice to say, I really enjoyed reading this book that I was just lost in the moment and couldn't be bothered with anything else including the freaking grammar and other technicalities. I loved how it was written in third person multiple POVs. I hope the second book would come fast because I cannot wait to read what happens next after that cliffhanger!
Oh my goodness this book. I loooooovvvveeeedddd it so so much! This was a dark mafia paranormal romance which was just brilliantly-written. I truly have no words except that I liked this book more than I antticipated. Everything sent chills on my spine and made me bite my nails. It's not just the smut that got my heart beat raced, but the plot itself, which was fast-paced and thrilling. I couldn't stop reading.
Kira made the list of my top fave fmcs of all time. When writing a strong fmc, this was how it should be done. She wasn't just a badass because she was stubborn, that's a poor excuse. She was independent, strong, cunning, cutthroat. I really admire her character. So far from being a strong fmc who doesn't have the necessary background which Rika has. She has past trauma and I'm not saying that it was needed for a main character to be well-layered. What I'm saying was that it was shown how Rika came to be who she was, it wasn't just written like "she was like this just because" (ehem, ehem, Den of Vipers, anyone? lmfao).
My favorite relationship was of Rika and her brother, next to that was hers with Kai. Arsen Kaito my poor baby. He deserved all the love in the world and I swore if Aeron didn't get his sht sorted out for my baby by the second book, I'd riot. Aeron was okay, I mean, it was like he was the neutral grounds in which everyone else feels safe. He tried to pacify everyone and oh boy, does he need to.
Kaito was just as destructive and psychotic as Kira and that's what makes them perfect for each other. Of course, it was Kira who centers all the guys. For them to all come together as one, they needed Kira. She was like the one who bonds them together and makes the realize the depth of their affections for one another. Well, that is if Damien would only stop being such an a** and give in to Kira lmfao most of the times he was being a jerk just because he can't stand a girl besting him. I mean, come on, what is this, Damien? Do you live in the past? F*ck the patriarchy, I say to you. The tension between him and Kira was hot but his attitude made him my least favorite guy. He better grovel big time in the second book or else.
Suffice to say, I really enjoyed reading this book that I was just lost in the moment and couldn't be bothered with anything else including the freaking grammar and other technicalities. I loved how it was written in third person multiple POVs. I hope the second book would come fast because I cannot wait to read what happens next after that cliffhanger!
June 12, 2022
Filled with suspense, chaos and tension. I did enjoy reading it, as a novel itself it was entertaining, something you could pick up if you had a spare five minutes to kill.
I did have some issues though, it felt as though I'd been thrown into the middle of a series, I didn't feel like there had been any set up for the characters, I formed no emotional attachment to them at all. Because I lacked the emotional attachment to the characters I couldn't fully immerse myself
The writing flowed nicely from chapter to chapter, so you didn't have to think too hard about who's POV it was and what exactly was happening
If there had been more character building it honestly would probably have been a 4.5-5☆ read. That building might come later on but for me it needed to be in book one to really engage and want me to keep reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I did have some issues though, it felt as though I'd been thrown into the middle of a series, I didn't feel like there had been any set up for the characters, I formed no emotional attachment to them at all. Because I lacked the emotional attachment to the characters I couldn't fully immerse myself
The writing flowed nicely from chapter to chapter, so you didn't have to think too hard about who's POV it was and what exactly was happening
If there had been more character building it honestly would probably have been a 4.5-5☆ read. That building might come later on but for me it needed to be in book one to really engage and want me to keep reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2022
KC Rating: 🍁 🍁 🍁.5 /🌶.5
This was an unexpected gem that I found on booksprout, and finished off in a day. I loved the book, the only issue I had with it, it was a bit too chaotic. Especially the writing. I had trouble focusing on what was going on, as there was a lot of information, and with reference to demons, and devils, I was getting confused about whether it was meant metaphoric or for real.
Meet Kira, she was a great character, but again, it seems as if there was some character development missing, which I believe will happen in the next books.
Ready to meet Kira, Damien, Aeron and Kaito (p.s. my favourite). Because they are a force to reckon with, and I can't wait for you to get to know them!
XOXO
Katie
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Connect with me!
This was an unexpected gem that I found on booksprout, and finished off in a day. I loved the book, the only issue I had with it, it was a bit too chaotic. Especially the writing. I had trouble focusing on what was going on, as there was a lot of information, and with reference to demons, and devils, I was getting confused about whether it was meant metaphoric or for real.
Meet Kira, she was a great character, but again, it seems as if there was some character development missing, which I believe will happen in the next books.
Ready to meet Kira, Damien, Aeron and Kaito (p.s. my favourite). Because they are a force to reckon with, and I can't wait for you to get to know them!
XOXO
Katie
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Connect with me!
June 29, 2023
Deliciously Dark
I need my own Adam. That’s what was the most important for me after reading this book LoL
Dark and twisted with completely unhinged characters and a love/hate relationship that promises a lot of banter and back and forth in the future.
Great characters with a solid plot and a cliffhanger that is not for the faint hearted. A real pleasure to read with a lot more to come I’m sure. Would recommend.
I need my own Adam. That’s what was the most important for me after reading this book LoL
Dark and twisted with completely unhinged characters and a love/hate relationship that promises a lot of banter and back and forth in the future.
Great characters with a solid plot and a cliffhanger that is not for the faint hearted. A real pleasure to read with a lot more to come I’m sure. Would recommend.
August 18, 2023
Born in Blood: A Reverse Harem Mafia Romance
A Syndicate of Blood and Chaos book 1
Emma R. Dean
Stars:🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🔥
Cliffhanger!!
**Read trigger warnings!!!**
This review may contain spoilers.
Tropes:
- [x] Mafia
- [x] Billionaire
- [x] RH
- [x] Arranged Marriage
Check, check and CHECK!! Born in Blood, A Syndicate of Blood and Chaos book book one, does not disappoint! I am a huge fan of dark romance and an absolute HO3 over anything RH! This book was right up my ally!
Told in multiple POV’s, Sinner’s Secret starts out with Kira. Kira is a total bada$$ which I am totally down for!!
Love interests:
The Devil- Damien, the prince of the Chaos Empire.
The Beast- Aeron, Damien’s Enforcer, personal bodyguard and adopted brother.
The Demon- Arsen Kaito
Born in Blood is relatively low on the spice rating but high in the drama, mystery, and secrets. The spice that was present was hot though and I do believe it will get spicier as the series continues!
Now let’s last about that cliffhanger… We already know the Prince of Chaos was a possessive alphahole but how far do we think he will go to save Kira in the next books? Hmmm something to think about, we already know Kira is dead set on keeping all three boys but Damien is dead set on having her as his own. I have so many questions I hope are answered in the next installment! I can’t wait to see how this all pans out. Guys this is one series you do not want to miss! This is an instabuy series/ authors for me!
Quotes:
Some people survive chaos and that is how they grow. And some people thrive in chaos, because chaos is all they know. - Chaos | Nikita Gill
There was a perverse pleasure in watching how well she could make others believe whatever she wanted them to.
He was going to fuck her so hard Aeron would feel it too, and then the asshole would finally understand what the hell was going on.
“Speak to her like you did the other night again, and I’ll rip your tongue from your mouth and feed it to Kira the next time I make sushi.”
“Enjoy your new toys, Kira.” “They’re not yours,” Damien snapped. Her brother shot the heir of Chaos a look. “You’re obviously slow if you think any of you don’t already belong to her.”
The ovaries on this girl were something else. No wonder Diablo wanted her as his heir.
I am giving it four stars because there was a few things that did not make sense to me. I assumed as I was reading Kira and Kaito knew each other in the past. It seemed like maybe they were tortured together or kidnapped at the same time. Then, towards the end it seemed like they just met and she had this obsession with him because she had been following him.
The relationship between Adam and Kira kinda creeps me out a little. I am almost getting an incest vibe from them, possibly I am wrong though.
This is not an issue but just an observation: I am unsure if the author was TRYING to keep the fact that Kira is Shadow a secret (it seemed like she was and it was supposed to be a big revelation) but, at least to me, it was blatantly obvious who Cain and Shadow are.
This is a voluntary arc review.
A Syndicate of Blood and Chaos book 1
Emma R. Dean
Stars:🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🔥
Cliffhanger!!
**Read trigger warnings!!!**
This review may contain spoilers.
Tropes:
- [x] Mafia
- [x] Billionaire
- [x] RH
- [x] Arranged Marriage
Check, check and CHECK!! Born in Blood, A Syndicate of Blood and Chaos book book one, does not disappoint! I am a huge fan of dark romance and an absolute HO3 over anything RH! This book was right up my ally!
Told in multiple POV’s, Sinner’s Secret starts out with Kira. Kira is a total bada$$ which I am totally down for!!
Love interests:
The Devil- Damien, the prince of the Chaos Empire.
The Beast- Aeron, Damien’s Enforcer, personal bodyguard and adopted brother.
The Demon- Arsen Kaito
Born in Blood is relatively low on the spice rating but high in the drama, mystery, and secrets. The spice that was present was hot though and I do believe it will get spicier as the series continues!
Now let’s last about that cliffhanger… We already know the Prince of Chaos was a possessive alphahole but how far do we think he will go to save Kira in the next books? Hmmm something to think about, we already know Kira is dead set on keeping all three boys but Damien is dead set on having her as his own. I have so many questions I hope are answered in the next installment! I can’t wait to see how this all pans out. Guys this is one series you do not want to miss! This is an instabuy series/ authors for me!
Quotes:
Some people survive chaos and that is how they grow. And some people thrive in chaos, because chaos is all they know. - Chaos | Nikita Gill
There was a perverse pleasure in watching how well she could make others believe whatever she wanted them to.
He was going to fuck her so hard Aeron would feel it too, and then the asshole would finally understand what the hell was going on.
“Speak to her like you did the other night again, and I’ll rip your tongue from your mouth and feed it to Kira the next time I make sushi.”
“Enjoy your new toys, Kira.” “They’re not yours,” Damien snapped. Her brother shot the heir of Chaos a look. “You’re obviously slow if you think any of you don’t already belong to her.”
The ovaries on this girl were something else. No wonder Diablo wanted her as his heir.
I am giving it four stars because there was a few things that did not make sense to me. I assumed as I was reading Kira and Kaito knew each other in the past. It seemed like maybe they were tortured together or kidnapped at the same time. Then, towards the end it seemed like they just met and she had this obsession with him because she had been following him.
The relationship between Adam and Kira kinda creeps me out a little. I am almost getting an incest vibe from them, possibly I am wrong though.
This is not an issue but just an observation: I am unsure if the author was TRYING to keep the fact that Kira is Shadow a secret (it seemed like she was and it was supposed to be a big revelation) but, at least to me, it was blatantly obvious who Cain and Shadow are.
This is a voluntary arc review.
June 1, 2022
This book was super dark. I adored it. Sometimes you just need a good dark romance to get you out of a slump. Is it just me? Maybe but I love it. Our heroine is feisty. She takes charge. She is SMART and crafty. I want to be her when I grow up. She's also twisted AF. Her men are too and so is her brother. I loved her relationship with her brother. They were perfect complements for each other and you can see why they survived as long as they have. Very nicely written!
Kira's obsession with Kaito, and Kaito's obsession with Kira and Cain both is *the chef's kiss*. I love Kaito's demon, it speaks to the soul - ANNNNDDD now you think I have a problem and need therapy. Seriously though, the characters and their personalities are amazing in this book. They make you feel like you are part of their world and you are happy being there. It's twisted and crazy but it feels believable and like a world you want to know about. I want so badly for Aeron to communicate with Kaito (no spoilers so I will say no more). I want Kaito to open up to Aeron more than he has. He keeps hinting but Aeron doesn't understand subtle. He needs direct confrontation. That's all I am going to say on that!
I literally cannot wait to read the other books in this series as they come out and learn more about Kira and her men. I also REALLY want Cain to find happiness apart from Kira. I am not sure if he will be able to but I hope that he can. I want to see more of the twins and Diablo and even Dante too. Dante, I feel, is going to become a real thorn in everyones side in Book 2. I might be wrong but I don't think I am. Also, I want more Isla! She is super cool and I think she will like Kira. The boys (mainly Damien) aren't sure on that but I feel like she will have mad respect for Kira. We already know that Kira does for her.
Book 1 was a masterpiece and I can't wait for Book 2! 100000% recommend this book, series, and author!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kira's obsession with Kaito, and Kaito's obsession with Kira and Cain both is *the chef's kiss*. I love Kaito's demon, it speaks to the soul - ANNNNDDD now you think I have a problem and need therapy. Seriously though, the characters and their personalities are amazing in this book. They make you feel like you are part of their world and you are happy being there. It's twisted and crazy but it feels believable and like a world you want to know about. I want so badly for Aeron to communicate with Kaito (no spoilers so I will say no more). I want Kaito to open up to Aeron more than he has. He keeps hinting but Aeron doesn't understand subtle. He needs direct confrontation. That's all I am going to say on that!
I literally cannot wait to read the other books in this series as they come out and learn more about Kira and her men. I also REALLY want Cain to find happiness apart from Kira. I am not sure if he will be able to but I hope that he can. I want to see more of the twins and Diablo and even Dante too. Dante, I feel, is going to become a real thorn in everyones side in Book 2. I might be wrong but I don't think I am. Also, I want more Isla! She is super cool and I think she will like Kira. The boys (mainly Damien) aren't sure on that but I feel like she will have mad respect for Kira. We already know that Kira does for her.
Book 1 was a masterpiece and I can't wait for Book 2! 100000% recommend this book, series, and author!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2022
Even with all of the dark aspects of this book, there is so much I LOVED, and it blew me away. I also love the FMC Kira, she is amazing! She's everything a bada$$ heroine, in a mafia series should be. She is smart, crafty, twisted as hell, and so is her brother. They were good for each other making sure they both survived and made it through everything they need to.
Damien, Aeron and Kaito are the 3 guys that Kira has set her eyes on, and she knows how to play the game so she can rope these guys Into her life. This book Is also set In third person POV, so It's different. You know what the characters are all thinking but almost like you're on the outside looking In. It really helps with a story like this, with all of the moving parts, secrets, and just pure chaos that ensues.
Kira really shows just how much of a fiesty woman in her own right that she is. This story is so unique, and the characters and personalities jump off the pages and really want to pull you into their world. I'm interested as to how their story will evolve, and what happened at the end of the book-no spoilers ;) .
Book 1 was an amazing jump into this series and I can't wait for book 2!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Damien, Aeron and Kaito are the 3 guys that Kira has set her eyes on, and she knows how to play the game so she can rope these guys Into her life. This book Is also set In third person POV, so It's different. You know what the characters are all thinking but almost like you're on the outside looking In. It really helps with a story like this, with all of the moving parts, secrets, and just pure chaos that ensues.
Kira really shows just how much of a fiesty woman in her own right that she is. This story is so unique, and the characters and personalities jump off the pages and really want to pull you into their world. I'm interested as to how their story will evolve, and what happened at the end of the book-no spoilers ;) .
Book 1 was an amazing jump into this series and I can't wait for book 2!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2023
really good. Seemed short considering how much of the story still needs to be told. And i finally got a heroine who can talk the talk and also walk the walk. Kira is wonderful, stunning, breathtaking. Like, this isn't your everyday girl.
The reverse harem was also done really well. Like, ugh, you guys don't understand. That's all I ever ask. Every part of the machine needs to move together, but they need to have a very specific role to make that happen and i got that from this. Kaito and her sharing an obsession that was scary to anyone else, but just made sense when it came to the two of them. Aeron with his fragile sensibilities despite being built like a very tall, a very wide building, and Damien with his control issues. AHHHHH i want to scream! It just fit so very well with her personality. I got when she said she needed a lot of things and one man wasn't going to be able to give her that. When you get to know her and you picture her in a monogamous relationship, it just doesn't seem like something that would work for her.
I also liked reading there POV's and finally reading a book where you knew they were clearly besotted by her but that wasn't all they saw when they looked at her.
The reverse harem was also done really well. Like, ugh, you guys don't understand. That's all I ever ask. Every part of the machine needs to move together, but they need to have a very specific role to make that happen and i got that from this. Kaito and her sharing an obsession that was scary to anyone else, but just made sense when it came to the two of them. Aeron with his fragile sensibilities despite being built like a very tall, a very wide building, and Damien with his control issues. AHHHHH i want to scream! It just fit so very well with her personality. I got when she said she needed a lot of things and one man wasn't going to be able to give her that. When you get to know her and you picture her in a monogamous relationship, it just doesn't seem like something that would work for her.
I also liked reading there POV's and finally reading a book where you knew they were clearly besotted by her but that wasn't all they saw when they looked at her.
June 19, 2022
Mafia RH
Oh man this book was addicting. Kids and her brother run an underground operation that deals with the gangs, mafia, etc. They also take jobs for profit. They have been anonymous for 10years before a game is set up for whoever wins gets to be a part of an organization that runs the eastern seaboard. One of the tasks to find out the identity of shadow and cain. They have been a mystery to all. Damien is the future leader of the Chaos family if he can find shadow and strike a deal with them. He tracks shadow to a woman that works at a pharmaceutical company and from there chaos reigns.
This book was so good. It had an intriguing story. There was a little spice in it but it was more setting up the world and everything. I would definitely recommend this book if you like reverse harems, mafia men, unhinged men, and a bad a** fmc who is a true player in the underworld.
Oh man this book was addicting. Kids and her brother run an underground operation that deals with the gangs, mafia, etc. They also take jobs for profit. They have been anonymous for 10years before a game is set up for whoever wins gets to be a part of an organization that runs the eastern seaboard. One of the tasks to find out the identity of shadow and cain. They have been a mystery to all. Damien is the future leader of the Chaos family if he can find shadow and strike a deal with them. He tracks shadow to a woman that works at a pharmaceutical company and from there chaos reigns.
This book was so good. It had an intriguing story. There was a little spice in it but it was more setting up the world and everything. I would definitely recommend this book if you like reverse harems, mafia men, unhinged men, and a bad a** fmc who is a true player in the underworld.
July 3, 2022
I've read a lot of mafia booms and after a while you get zome redundancies. Like how many unique takes on mafia can you get? I thought this book was different. It had its uniqueness with Shadow and Cain. And who would have thought of a mafia scavenger hunt? I will say that I've never read a book written in third person before. Probably a personal preference, but it was difficult for me at the beginning to get invested. I found myself changing it to first person just in my head. But I got used to it. There were some parts where I was thrown off a bit with the names going back and forth from first, last and nickname.
Im not a huge insta love fan. I want to feel the build up. Or I want to go deep into the meaning. Deep into how they could insta love someone. I feel like there could have been more. I want more.
Overall I enjoyed the book. I was entertained and want to know what happens next.
Im not a huge insta love fan. I want to feel the build up. Or I want to go deep into the meaning. Deep into how they could insta love someone. I feel like there could have been more. I want more.
Overall I enjoyed the book. I was entertained and want to know what happens next.
May 30, 2022
Where do I even start with this book? I read this book in under an hour because I couldn't put it down, and I wouldn't even if I had to. I was hooked from page one with the suspense, and it continued throughout the book. Kira is a badass who will stop at nothing to get what she wants. Damien Chaos, Aeron, and Kaito are just as badass, but they fall under her spell. Born in Blood was the perfect mix of action, suspense, spice, and character development. The book does end on a cliffhanger, so I will be patiently waiting for the second book to devour. Born in Blood was my first book by Emma Dean and will certainly not be my last.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2023
Rather different mafia twist here as the FMC is la crème de la crème of master-minds and she seems to be few steps ahead of everyone.
The mystery surrounding Shadow and the ultimate power that name brings enthrals the underground world and when the hunt begins, the stakes for revealing the identity of the mysterious person are high and all participants in the challenge are willing to go to all means necessary to capture the ghost.
Kira's personage is engaging, cunning and tremendously witty as she gives Damien, Aeron and Keto run for their money.
I liked the strong bond between Kira and her brother as he has stood by her through thick and thin. I am curious to see how everything evolves in this immensely captivating story as the author has captured my undivided attention.
The mystery surrounding Shadow and the ultimate power that name brings enthrals the underground world and when the hunt begins, the stakes for revealing the identity of the mysterious person are high and all participants in the challenge are willing to go to all means necessary to capture the ghost.
Kira's personage is engaging, cunning and tremendously witty as she gives Damien, Aeron and Keto run for their money.
I liked the strong bond between Kira and her brother as he has stood by her through thick and thin. I am curious to see how everything evolves in this immensely captivating story as the author has captured my undivided attention.
June 12, 2022
I’m really liking this beginning on the series. It seems that everyone is a tad psycho or has a switch that runs them into a killer. So a very interesting mafia story that brings the bad guys as the main characters. But there is plenty of loyalty within the groups that shows how strong they feel for each other and would do anything to protect each other. Kira to me is the star of the story. I love her character. She is so damn cunning and ruthless. She has a way of being one step ahead of the others. There is some heat to the story but I have a feeling that will be cranked up in the next book.
June 7, 2022
Best dark mafia in a long time
Eek! This was so so good!!!!! I love dark mafia stories and this was one of the best I've read. Characters are amazing, I adore underestimated fmc's and Kira should never be underestimated. I love how her main love interest was Kai, who in most other books would have the supporting character to the main mmc, Damian. In this they are more equal and is such a breath of fresh air to read something like this. The story is amazing and I can't wait for the next book! Well done Emma R. Dean!
Eek! This was so so good!!!!! I love dark mafia stories and this was one of the best I've read. Characters are amazing, I adore underestimated fmc's and Kira should never be underestimated. I love how her main love interest was Kai, who in most other books would have the supporting character to the main mmc, Damian. In this they are more equal and is such a breath of fresh air to read something like this. The story is amazing and I can't wait for the next book! Well done Emma R. Dean!
July 5, 2022
There are parts of this story that I really liked and the characters have a lot of potential. I felt like the plot dragged and was simultaneously confusing and easy to predict. I am hoping that the other books in the series help to explain things better and also help grow the characters more. The concept of the Shadow Empire is definitely super cool. And Kira is a complete badass so I hope that that continues in the 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.
October 24, 2022
Good God This Book!!!!
What do I even say!??? WTF did I just read? This book is literally everything! I mean, I've been in a good book slump, but even if I wasn't, I would know genius when I read it! This is the ultimate strong FMC and I'm just here to make sure Damien proves he's worth it! I've never wanted or needed to reread a book, but I may need to with this one. I read about 150 to 200 books a year, which is about 2-4 books a week (speed reader) and this one has me by the throat... read the damn book!
What do I even say!??? WTF did I just read? This book is literally everything! I mean, I've been in a good book slump, but even if I wasn't, I would know genius when I read it! This is the ultimate strong FMC and I'm just here to make sure Damien proves he's worth it! I've never wanted or needed to reread a book, but I may need to with this one. I read about 150 to 200 books a year, which is about 2-4 books a week (speed reader) and this one has me by the throat... read the damn book!
June 11, 2022
I loved this book so much! I've been in a reading slump the last few months and have been struggling to finish all the books I've started but I couldn't put this one down!
Kira is my favourite type of heroine. Badass and not relying on the male love interests to save her.
And I love all the guys as well (Kaito is my favourite).
I don't even mind the insta-love aspect (which I don't normally like) since the relationship doesn't feel rushed.
Kira is my favourite type of heroine. Badass and not relying on the male love interests to save her.
And I love all the guys as well (Kaito is my favourite).
I don't even mind the insta-love aspect (which I don't normally like) since the relationship doesn't feel rushed.
June 12, 2022
This was brilliant. Wasn’t sure initially as was a move away from Emma’s normal genre, but I shouldn’t have worried. Excellent writing as always, and the characters were interesting, engaging, messy, and twisted :) …..and deeper than you might expect from mafia families trying to be the most powerful. But don’t expect a story with “the bad guys are really good underneath”…while they have morals, they are unapologetically criminal.
Eagerly await the next book.
Highly recommend.
Eagerly await the next book.
Highly recommend.
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