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What would you do if you fell for the woman you’re supposed to protect?
When you’ve been tasked by your best friend and boss to protect his family from an unknown threat, you shouldn’t be noticing how attractive his youngest cousin is.
Pity for me I’ve had feelings for Rina Villetti for longer than I care to think about. And I’m all but sure she doesn’t feel the same way until she starts opening up to me.
The shy bookworm shouldn’t be my focus when secrets from the past come to light. Rina makes me forget I have the mystery behind her father’s death to unravel. He never wanted her involved in the mafia, but now his daughter is the key to finding the truth.
I shouldn’t drag Zayn’s younger cousin into this world, but it turns out, Rina was in it all along. Can I keep my precious girl safe or will everything fall apart when all the puzzle pieces fit together?
A dark bodyguard romance set in Sarah Bailey’s Dark Universe. This is a standalone in an interconnected series.
This novella is #1.5 in the series and best read after Tyrant.
This is a DARK romance and therefore comes with a content warning. Please see author's website for full details.
When you’ve been tasked by your best friend and boss to protect his family from an unknown threat, you shouldn’t be noticing how attractive his youngest cousin is.
Pity for me I’ve had feelings for Rina Villetti for longer than I care to think about. And I’m all but sure she doesn’t feel the same way until she starts opening up to me.
The shy bookworm shouldn’t be my focus when secrets from the past come to light. Rina makes me forget I have the mystery behind her father’s death to unravel. He never wanted her involved in the mafia, but now his daughter is the key to finding the truth.
I shouldn’t drag Zayn’s younger cousin into this world, but it turns out, Rina was in it all along. Can I keep my precious girl safe or will everything fall apart when all the puzzle pieces fit together?
A dark bodyguard romance set in Sarah Bailey’s Dark Universe. This is a standalone in an interconnected series.
This novella is #1.5 in the series and best read after Tyrant.
This is a DARK romance and therefore comes with a content warning. Please see author's website for full details.
184 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 27, 2022
72 people are currently reading
1068 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Bailey
47 books2,205 followersSarah writes dark, contemporary, erotic and paranormal romances. They adore all forms of steamy romance and can always be found with a book or ten on their Kindle. They love anti-heroes, alpha males and flawed characters with a little bit of darkness lurking within. Their writing buddies nicknamed Sarah: 'The Queen of Steam' for their pulse racing sex scenes which will leave you a little hot under the collar.
Born and raised in Sussex, UK near the Ashdown Forest, they grew up climbing trees and building Lego towns with their younger brother. Sarah fell in love with novels as a teenager reading their aunt's historical regency romances. They have always loved the supernatural and exploring the darker side of romance and fantasy novels.
Sarah currently resides in the Scottish Highlands with their husband. Music is one of their biggest inspirations and they always have something on in the background whilst writing. They are an avid gamer and are often found hogging their husband's Xbox.
Born and raised in Sussex, UK near the Ashdown Forest, they grew up climbing trees and building Lego towns with their younger brother. Sarah fell in love with novels as a teenager reading their aunt's historical regency romances. They have always loved the supernatural and exploring the darker side of romance and fantasy novels.
Sarah currently resides in the Scottish Highlands with their husband. Music is one of their biggest inspirations and they always have something on in the background whilst writing. They are an avid gamer and are often found hogging their husband's Xbox.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
May 27, 2022
I am mildly (fully) obsessed with Sarah's writing and her stories.
This novella is no exception!
A bookworm (she is all of us) and a possessive bodyguard (what we all want to read about).
Arlo and Rina are such a sweet couple. They've longed for each other from a distance for WAY too long. Arlo is assigned to watch over Rina and her family after a kidnapping attempt on one of her sisters. It starts to become impossible for Rina and Arlo to ignore their attraction to one another being in such close proximity.
I think plots for novellas can be so unpredictable with the length they are, but Sarah pulled this off incredibly well. It was well-paced, didn't feel rushed to me and of course, the spice was impeccable!
10/10 would recommend and read again!
This novella is no exception!
A bookworm (she is all of us) and a possessive bodyguard (what we all want to read about).
Arlo and Rina are such a sweet couple. They've longed for each other from a distance for WAY too long. Arlo is assigned to watch over Rina and her family after a kidnapping attempt on one of her sisters. It starts to become impossible for Rina and Arlo to ignore their attraction to one another being in such close proximity.
I think plots for novellas can be so unpredictable with the length they are, but Sarah pulled this off incredibly well. It was well-paced, didn't feel rushed to me and of course, the spice was impeccable!
10/10 would recommend and read again!
August 3, 2022
ARLO ♥️♥️♥️
Omg Arlo is my next book boyfriend, he is so sweet and loving 🥰 and Rina, even though she seemed meek at the beginning, she proved me wrong, she is what I consider a strong FMC
Omg Arlo is my next book boyfriend, he is so sweet and loving 🥰 and Rina, even though she seemed meek at the beginning, she proved me wrong, she is what I consider a strong FMC
November 18, 2022
They’ve always liked each other but never knew. ❤️
Rina is a shy bookworm with a stutter and Arlo is her cousins right hand man. He doesn’t want to drag her into his world but doesn’t realize she’s already in it. He just wants to keep his precious girl safe from the world.
Ahhhh I wish this was longer!!! This was so cute, I wish I could read more about these two. Rina may be shy but she has a backbone and isn’t afraid to go to bat for those she loves. Arlo is a possessive and protective badass who worships Rina. They are adorable!!
Rina is a shy bookworm with a stutter and Arlo is her cousins right hand man. He doesn’t want to drag her into his world but doesn’t realize she’s already in it. He just wants to keep his precious girl safe from the world.
Ahhhh I wish this was longer!!! This was so cute, I wish I could read more about these two. Rina may be shy but she has a backbone and isn’t afraid to go to bat for those she loves. Arlo is a possessive and protective badass who worships Rina. They are adorable!!
May 27, 2022
Arlo and Rina’s story is just amazing.
I need to get myself an Arlo.
The story has a great plot, questions to be answered then the understanding where revenge is always sweet and you cannot forget your usual dose of Spice. It is a different pace to other books but it does not disappoint in the slightest and is perfect for the story being told.
Rina’s character for me is very relatable and is a fantastic character.Rina is a shy, timid bookworm on the surface but is incredibly strong and resilient, she knows what she wants and doesn’t hesitate to ask for it! Rina is not one to be undermined and isn’t afraid to stand up to protect those she cares for.
Arlo is a perfect gentleman to Rina, he makes sure she’s comfortable and is so patient and understanding. But don’t get me wrong he has his way with words.
Plus the dedication is reason enough to read this. Once again it did not disappoint
I need to get myself an Arlo.
The story has a great plot, questions to be answered then the understanding where revenge is always sweet and you cannot forget your usual dose of Spice. It is a different pace to other books but it does not disappoint in the slightest and is perfect for the story being told.
Rina’s character for me is very relatable and is a fantastic character.Rina is a shy, timid bookworm on the surface but is incredibly strong and resilient, she knows what she wants and doesn’t hesitate to ask for it! Rina is not one to be undermined and isn’t afraid to stand up to protect those she cares for.
Arlo is a perfect gentleman to Rina, he makes sure she’s comfortable and is so patient and understanding. But don’t get me wrong he has his way with words.
Plus the dedication is reason enough to read this. Once again it did not disappoint
May 14, 2022
Well, I was hooked from the dedication :P
I love the dynamic between Arlo and Rina and I read the whole thing in about three hours because I couldn't put it down.
It's difficult to put this much action and chemistry in a novella-length story but I love Sarah's writing and how she's able to tie everything up and give you a satisfying, quick read.
Definitely a 5/5!
I love the dynamic between Arlo and Rina and I read the whole thing in about three hours because I couldn't put it down.
It's difficult to put this much action and chemistry in a novella-length story but I love Sarah's writing and how she's able to tie everything up and give you a satisfying, quick read.
Definitely a 5/5!
Read
May 15, 2022May ARC Reading & Review
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Villetti Chronicles #️⃣1.5
Tease
Authour: @sbaileyauthor
"I couldn’t go back. I wanted to call him mine."
"She was fast becoming my everything"
Another Bodyguard romance for the win, for me this month. But this one was so much more than just a bodyguard romance. These two have been holding on to feelings for a very long time, it’s actually so adorable how they were too scared to tell each other how they feel. I enjoyed every minute of this story between Rina and Arlo. Not only was Arlo sweet and gentle with Rina but also with her books. Where can I find a man like that?
Rina's character surprised me the most. She has so much more going on than you would think, she is pretty badass if I say so myself.
We also got to have some appearances of Zayn and a few other familiar characters which made me laugh every time they appeared. I was very excited to see how they would help out lovely heroine Rina.
I want to say so much more but I don’t want to give anything away. I adore Arlo and Rina and I was very excited to read their story and get to know them more.
I look forward to more of the Villetti Chronicles and hopefully more of Rina and Arlo. Thank you Sarah for the opportunity to read this ARC. 🖤
#SarahBailey #Tease #TheVillettiChronicles #Novella #DarkBodyguardRomance #Protect #mafia #Rina #Bookworm #Shy #miapreziosa #miabella #miacara #Arlo #mine #yours #HEA #Darkromance
Edit Canva
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Villetti Chronicles #️⃣1.5
Tease
Authour: @sbaileyauthor
"I couldn’t go back. I wanted to call him mine."
"She was fast becoming my everything"
Another Bodyguard romance for the win, for me this month. But this one was so much more than just a bodyguard romance. These two have been holding on to feelings for a very long time, it’s actually so adorable how they were too scared to tell each other how they feel. I enjoyed every minute of this story between Rina and Arlo. Not only was Arlo sweet and gentle with Rina but also with her books. Where can I find a man like that?
Rina's character surprised me the most. She has so much more going on than you would think, she is pretty badass if I say so myself.
We also got to have some appearances of Zayn and a few other familiar characters which made me laugh every time they appeared. I was very excited to see how they would help out lovely heroine Rina.
I want to say so much more but I don’t want to give anything away. I adore Arlo and Rina and I was very excited to read their story and get to know them more.
I look forward to more of the Villetti Chronicles and hopefully more of Rina and Arlo. Thank you Sarah for the opportunity to read this ARC. 🖤
#SarahBailey #Tease #TheVillettiChronicles #Novella #DarkBodyguardRomance #Protect #mafia #Rina #Bookworm #Shy #miapreziosa #miabella #miacara #Arlo #mine #yours #HEA #Darkromance
Edit Canva
May 14, 2022
I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review* TY Sarah !
Now, onto business.
Initial thoughts:
1) Is there anything better than a quiet, smart FMC underestimated by everyone around her, rising above and saving the day? No. Absolutely not. It is superior.
2) Arlo & Zayn are *dude bros*, the mafia edition, & I’m so here for it. I think I could read a whole book that contained only scenes where Zayn busted Arlo’s balls.
3) Rina’s boss is none other than Xavier Scott aka Xavi aka the Devils Syndicate ball buster & that classic taunting humor makes an appearance in this novella. I smiled so hard it hurt.
4) Martina Viletti, Rina’s mom, is actually super sweet. I wasn’t sure what to expect from her but she seemed very in tune with her daughters, & her reaction to catching the happy couple in a … compromising position, was so sweet.
FRTC
Now, onto business.
Initial thoughts:
1) Is there anything better than a quiet, smart FMC underestimated by everyone around her, rising above and saving the day? No. Absolutely not. It is superior.
2) Arlo & Zayn are *dude bros*, the mafia edition, & I’m so here for it. I think I could read a whole book that contained only scenes where Zayn busted Arlo’s balls.
3) Rina’s boss is none other than Xavier Scott aka Xavi aka the Devils Syndicate ball buster & that classic taunting humor makes an appearance in this novella. I smiled so hard it hurt.
4) Martina Viletti, Rina’s mom, is actually super sweet. I wasn’t sure what to expect from her but she seemed very in tune with her daughters, & her reaction to catching the happy couple in a … compromising position, was so sweet.
FRTC
May 27, 2022
You know that moment when you find that perfect book boyfriend that shatters your harem of book boyfriends to pieces? That’s what Sarah has done for me with Arlo and Rina’s story.
Rina is a unique neurodivergent young woman who may prefer to hideaway with her books but this young woman won my heart. She is observant, determined, compassionate, perceptive, intelligent and knows what she wants. She is willing to put herself on the front line to protect those that she loves and I admire her greatly.
Arlo is Zayn’s right hand man and proves why he is. This man is loyal, skilled, observant and intelligent - he may seem cold and emotionless on the outside, but he is anything but that on the inside.
I absolutely loved how these two harbored feelings for one another and when the fates aligned for them to be put together the sparks flew (but not without the hilarious spurring on by Zayn). I love how Arlo is so patient and is sure to show Rina how much he cares for her. My heart nearly exploded with their chemistry and I swear I melted over their steam.
The plot was fantastic, I loved how Sarah wove in intricacies that aren’t seen very often with characters. She has this ability of bringing characters to life and it shines brightly within these pages. I really enjoyed the fast pace of this as well, it didn’t feel rushed and I adore how she included cameos of characters from her past novels.
I was able to devour this in a couple of hours and I am fighting the urge to flip back to the beginning to read again because it was just that good. It’s the perfect mix of action, steam and suspense with characters you can’t avoid falling in love with.
Rina is a unique neurodivergent young woman who may prefer to hideaway with her books but this young woman won my heart. She is observant, determined, compassionate, perceptive, intelligent and knows what she wants. She is willing to put herself on the front line to protect those that she loves and I admire her greatly.
Arlo is Zayn’s right hand man and proves why he is. This man is loyal, skilled, observant and intelligent - he may seem cold and emotionless on the outside, but he is anything but that on the inside.
I absolutely loved how these two harbored feelings for one another and when the fates aligned for them to be put together the sparks flew (but not without the hilarious spurring on by Zayn). I love how Arlo is so patient and is sure to show Rina how much he cares for her. My heart nearly exploded with their chemistry and I swear I melted over their steam.
The plot was fantastic, I loved how Sarah wove in intricacies that aren’t seen very often with characters. She has this ability of bringing characters to life and it shines brightly within these pages. I really enjoyed the fast pace of this as well, it didn’t feel rushed and I adore how she included cameos of characters from her past novels.
I was able to devour this in a couple of hours and I am fighting the urge to flip back to the beginning to read again because it was just that good. It’s the perfect mix of action, steam and suspense with characters you can’t avoid falling in love with.
May 19, 2022
4/5⭐️ 4/5🔥
The bodyguard meets his shy bookworm, OMG. Arlo is Zyan’s shadow, second command, best friend and meets Zyan’s cousin Rina. She is underestimated due to her stuttering and introverted personality but behind her love of mafia and memoir books she knows what’s going in there world even if she was sheltered.
A quick and short novella set in the same world as Sarah Bailey’s Dark Universe that once again got me more excited for what’s to come throughout the series
The bodyguard meets his shy bookworm, OMG. Arlo is Zyan’s shadow, second command, best friend and meets Zyan’s cousin Rina. She is underestimated due to her stuttering and introverted personality but behind her love of mafia and memoir books she knows what’s going in there world even if she was sheltered.
A quick and short novella set in the same world as Sarah Bailey’s Dark Universe that once again got me more excited for what’s to come throughout the series
May 27, 2022
ARC Review - To say that I was excited when I got this ARC would be an understatement. I fell in love with Sarah Bailey after reading the Four Horseman series. Zayn was such an interesting character and I was so happy to see him get his own series. Arlo, as his right hand man was of course someone I wanted to learn more about. Rina is not your typical character, she is a shy bookworm who has a stutter. Seeing her growth was incredible and I am so proud of her. I hope to find a man like Arlo one day. Can’t wait for everyone to fall in love with these characters, and the next book that will be coming out!
May 27, 2022
This novella just hit me in all of me feels. I mean come on ….the bodyguard and the bookworm?! Yes please!
Arlo is very much a touch her and die type of man but HOLY SHIT! He is sweet, thoughtful, caring and the mouth on this man 🥵🥵🥵
Rina…amazing Rina ❤️ The quiet but observant bookworm is now my second favorite FMC that Sarah has given us (Ari is my #1).
One of my favorite things that Sarah does is the Easter eggs she lays around hoping we snatch them up. I was giddy when I came across them in this book. Not enough people talk about the Syndicate series and it’s a shame. I implore anyone who hasn’t read that series to run to KU and devour them!
How this woman gives us top notch smut but also makes us root for and fall in love with this world and all the beautifully flawed humans that resides there blows my mind! I sobbed at the end…sobbed. It was (imo) the sweetest story she has given us but still packed a punch with not only the spice but the plot as well 💜
Arlo is very much a touch her and die type of man but HOLY SHIT! He is sweet, thoughtful, caring and the mouth on this man 🥵🥵🥵
Rina…amazing Rina ❤️ The quiet but observant bookworm is now my second favorite FMC that Sarah has given us (Ari is my #1).
One of my favorite things that Sarah does is the Easter eggs she lays around hoping we snatch them up. I was giddy when I came across them in this book. Not enough people talk about the Syndicate series and it’s a shame. I implore anyone who hasn’t read that series to run to KU and devour them!
How this woman gives us top notch smut but also makes us root for and fall in love with this world and all the beautifully flawed humans that resides there blows my mind! I sobbed at the end…sobbed. It was (imo) the sweetest story she has given us but still packed a punch with not only the spice but the plot as well 💜
May 28, 2022
If you like spicy dark contemporary romance, then Sarah is the author for you.
Arlo became a favorite in the first book in the series, Tyrant. Arlo isn't ruthless, even tho he has to be at times. Rina isn’t fully in the mafia world but has seen it from afar. She isn’t oblivious to what Arlo’s job entails.
The beginning of their relationship is so very sweet until Rina demands more. And I love how patient and supportive Arlo is about her stammer and what she does for a living.
I felt their connection from Tyrant and I’m all here for the bodyguard romance.
And what is a Mafia book with out an kidnapping attempt?
*I received an ARC from the author, my opinion in the review is my own.*
Arlo became a favorite in the first book in the series, Tyrant. Arlo isn't ruthless, even tho he has to be at times. Rina isn’t fully in the mafia world but has seen it from afar. She isn’t oblivious to what Arlo’s job entails.
The beginning of their relationship is so very sweet until Rina demands more. And I love how patient and supportive Arlo is about her stammer and what she does for a living.
I felt their connection from Tyrant and I’m all here for the bodyguard romance.
And what is a Mafia book with out an kidnapping attempt?
*I received an ARC from the author, my opinion in the review is my own.*
May 27, 2022
The next installment in The Villetti Chronicles series is finally here and I’m thrilled to share my thoughts on Arlo and Rina! This novella may be short, but it doesn’t lack on story OR spice!
If you read Tyrant, then you will remember his right hand man Arlo, and his years long crush on the sweet and shy Villetti cousin, Rina. After an attempted kidnapping, Rina and her sisters require a security detail… one that Arlo is more than happy to provide.
In this novella we find out more about Rina, her life, her struggles, her loves… and she is so truly and completely relatable as a bookworm that it’s very hard not falling in love with her yourself. She’s the star of this novella in so many ways. Seeing neurodivergent character representation will always warm my heart.
The mutual pining between these characters will have you yelling at your kindle, swooning at all the sweetness, and fanning yourself when Arlo speaks sweet Italian to our dear heroine.
To anyone who wanted to know more about their story while reading Tyrant, you NEED THIS novella!!
If you read Tyrant, then you will remember his right hand man Arlo, and his years long crush on the sweet and shy Villetti cousin, Rina. After an attempted kidnapping, Rina and her sisters require a security detail… one that Arlo is more than happy to provide.
In this novella we find out more about Rina, her life, her struggles, her loves… and she is so truly and completely relatable as a bookworm that it’s very hard not falling in love with her yourself. She’s the star of this novella in so many ways. Seeing neurodivergent character representation will always warm my heart.
The mutual pining between these characters will have you yelling at your kindle, swooning at all the sweetness, and fanning yourself when Arlo speaks sweet Italian to our dear heroine.
To anyone who wanted to know more about their story while reading Tyrant, you NEED THIS novella!!
May 31, 2023
Arlo and Rina's story was not what I was expecting but I absolutely loved it and them. Arlo in the previous book was so intense and I couldn't see how his character would develop. He always was so honor-bound to Zayn and the life that I couldn't picture how it would all work. We didn't see much of Rina in the Zayn's book and now we know why. She is the quite one that everyone underestimates but is incredibly powerful in her own right. I really enjoyed the character development she had throughout the story and we got to see that loyalty and devotion to the family and her really coming into her own strength.
I'm really glad that this was a novella and Sarah Bailey didn't try to unnecessarily expand the story into something it wasn't. Even with the shorter number of pages, there was still tons of depth to their relationship as they navigated the intense moments and even then fun and flirty moments. What I wasn't really prepared for was the spice. I mean I should've known the chemistry and heat would be insane cause it is Sarah Bailey. Rina did not strike me as the bold and assertive one in the bedroom but she certainly did not hold back when demanding what she wanted from Arlo and I'm here for it!
I'm so thankful for receiving the ARC of this book! I'm officially hooked on this world and really can't wait for Gil's story next and eventually Enzo's story. And I really really really hope we get Penn's story too.
Rating - 5/5
Spice Level - 3/5
I'm really glad that this was a novella and Sarah Bailey didn't try to unnecessarily expand the story into something it wasn't. Even with the shorter number of pages, there was still tons of depth to their relationship as they navigated the intense moments and even then fun and flirty moments. What I wasn't really prepared for was the spice. I mean I should've known the chemistry and heat would be insane cause it is Sarah Bailey. Rina did not strike me as the bold and assertive one in the bedroom but she certainly did not hold back when demanding what she wanted from Arlo and I'm here for it!
I'm so thankful for receiving the ARC of this book! I'm officially hooked on this world and really can't wait for Gil's story next and eventually Enzo's story. And I really really really hope we get Penn's story too.
Rating - 5/5
Spice Level - 3/5
May 17, 2022
Wow! I absolutely love Rina & Arlo 🖤 I was really able to relate to Rina being a nerdy, neurodivergent, introverted bookworm. But don't underestimate her 😉 Sarah knows who her audience is....that dedication page! 🥵
I consider this a much sweeter romance for Sarah Bailey but it wasn't without its spice. I think everyone wants there own Arlo ️🔥
My only complaint was that I wanted more of these two instead of a novella 😭 I'm greedy like that though 😇 I hope to see them again in the future Villetti Chronicles and I cannot wait for Enzo and Gil's stories!
*I received an ARC from the author, this review is my own honest opinion.
May 17, 2022
My heart. These two are too perfect.
After the fall of Zayn’s father he has enlisted Arlo, his right hand, to look after and protect his aunt and cousins. Rina is beyond excited to have Arlo close by, who she’s been pining over for years. Unbeknownst to her, Rina is about to find out that Arlo has the same feelings towards her.
I love these two so much. The mutual pining kills me. The fact that Arlo loves and wants Rina just the way she is, major swoon. Rina has a few insecurities but completely comes into her own with him. They find comfort in each other and the chemistry between them is off the charts.
We can all relate to Rina. She’s a total bookworm and fantasizes about all that comes with reading romance. Fortunately for her she has a very real man who’s determined to give her a happily ever after..
After the fall of Zayn’s father he has enlisted Arlo, his right hand, to look after and protect his aunt and cousins. Rina is beyond excited to have Arlo close by, who she’s been pining over for years. Unbeknownst to her, Rina is about to find out that Arlo has the same feelings towards her.
I love these two so much. The mutual pining kills me. The fact that Arlo loves and wants Rina just the way she is, major swoon. Rina has a few insecurities but completely comes into her own with him. They find comfort in each other and the chemistry between them is off the charts.
We can all relate to Rina. She’s a total bookworm and fantasizes about all that comes with reading romance. Fortunately for her she has a very real man who’s determined to give her a happily ever after..
May 14, 2022
Friggin swooning!!! The mafia bodyguard falling for the introverted bookworm who works in IT security and has two kitties. 😍
Rina comes off has quiet and meek and extremely introverted, but woman is FIERCE and has a gorgeous brain! I want to be her bestie.
Arlo… hunk of burning love, protective, teddy bear with a filthy mouth… who is so intuitive to his girl he makes my heart swoon and would lay his life on the line to do everything to protect what’s his.
My heart could burst. This was everything I needed. Sweet and spicy, and he could call me a good girl anyday. 🥵
Thank you so much for the gifted ARC! 😍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Rina comes off has quiet and meek and extremely introverted, but woman is FIERCE and has a gorgeous brain! I want to be her bestie.
Arlo… hunk of burning love, protective, teddy bear with a filthy mouth… who is so intuitive to his girl he makes my heart swoon and would lay his life on the line to do everything to protect what’s his.
My heart could burst. This was everything I needed. Sweet and spicy, and he could call me a good girl anyday. 🥵
Thank you so much for the gifted ARC! 😍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 27, 2022
this one is for all the dirty bookworms!
There’s a little Rina Villetti in all of us bookworms which makes this novella so so so so good! I love Rina and Arlos story! This story continues where Tyrant left off and it follows Zayn’s best friend and his cousin. Zayn sends Arlo to protect his Aunt and 3 cousins. The growing relationship between the MCs is simply beautiful! I love the cross over from The Devils Syndicate series and I can not fail to mention what an absolute badass Rina is. It is possible this could be my favorite series of Sarah’s to date! I can’t wait for the next book.
There’s a little Rina Villetti in all of us bookworms which makes this novella so so so so good! I love Rina and Arlos story! This story continues where Tyrant left off and it follows Zayn’s best friend and his cousin. Zayn sends Arlo to protect his Aunt and 3 cousins. The growing relationship between the MCs is simply beautiful! I love the cross over from The Devils Syndicate series and I can not fail to mention what an absolute badass Rina is. It is possible this could be my favorite series of Sarah’s to date! I can’t wait for the next book.
June 2, 2022
Arlo & Rina are the IT couple!!
Sarah Bailey has done it again and in a big way! I bought this book just the other day and stayed up all night reading it! Sarah always puts her heart and soul into each of her books and you can always tell. She creates worlds where I can step into and completely immerse myself into.
I didn’t even know Sarah was going to write about them and when I found out, I screamed! Ever since Zayn’s book, I have been super curious about Arlo & Rina and we finally get to learn about them!
If you haven’t picked up this book yet, what are you waiting for?!
Sarah Bailey has done it again and in a big way! I bought this book just the other day and stayed up all night reading it! Sarah always puts her heart and soul into each of her books and you can always tell. She creates worlds where I can step into and completely immerse myself into.
I didn’t even know Sarah was going to write about them and when I found out, I screamed! Ever since Zayn’s book, I have been super curious about Arlo & Rina and we finally get to learn about them!
If you haven’t picked up this book yet, what are you waiting for?!
May 28, 2022
I don't think Bailey can write anything but pure gold because I love it all! With a relatable FMC and a swoon worthy MMC, Tease does not disappoint. Tease continues to push the overall storyline forward, providing few answers while also giving me more questions that need answered. The steam, as always, was perfect. Arlo and Rina are a favorite couple for sure but I can't help but crave more!
May 14, 2022
This story had so much sweetness to it. Even though it was definitely a mafia world, Arlo and Rina are (I think) two of the sweetest characters that Sarah has written. Was a quick read and I really enjoyed it! ❤️
September 23, 2022
Me empalagan Rina y Arlo, pero aún así disfruté mucho su historia. Siempre he dicho que Sarah Bailey es muy buena escribiendo una conexión emocional entre sus personajes, y aunque de repente lo sintiera todo tan perfecto (yeah wtf conmigo), no pude evitar sentir maripositas leyendo 🥰🥰.
May 14, 2022
✨ARC REVIEW✨
First of all, I am here for the dedication!
I absolutely loved getting a peek at Arlo and Rina in more depth. Rina is a badass and someone I can relate to as a bookworm. The way Arlo treats her…*swoon*
Sarah, I absolutely love your writing and can’t wait for more!!
First of all, I am here for the dedication!
I absolutely loved getting a peek at Arlo and Rina in more depth. Rina is a badass and someone I can relate to as a bookworm. The way Arlo treats her…*swoon*
Sarah, I absolutely love your writing and can’t wait for more!!
May 18, 2022
If you haven’t met Arlo yet. I would suggest you to read Tyrant. BUT if you have met Arlo. Welcome to his novella.
We get the story about Arlo & Rina. Rina is a shy girl who pulls at my heart strings. Glasses wearing romance lover. They both are infatuated with each other and it’s flipping cute.
Rina and her family are under protection after an incident involving one of her sisters. Of course Zayn sends in his right hand man to do the job. He is on protective detail. Did he ever protect Rina! It was so cute. Like Sarah where do I find an Arlo?!
We get the story about Arlo & Rina. Rina is a shy girl who pulls at my heart strings. Glasses wearing romance lover. They both are infatuated with each other and it’s flipping cute.
Rina and her family are under protection after an incident involving one of her sisters. Of course Zayn sends in his right hand man to do the job. He is on protective detail. Did he ever protect Rina! It was so cute. Like Sarah where do I find an Arlo?!
May 27, 2022
4.5 stars
This was good. I really enjoyed Arlo and Rina as well as having glimpses at Zayn and Ari as well as some of her other chracters having a bit of a cameo. This was intriguing and quick to read. I also enjoyed that Rina has a speech impediment and is more reserved than some of Sarah's other female characters. However, I wish I had more of the characters and plot instead of it being compact into a novella.
This was good. I really enjoyed Arlo and Rina as well as having glimpses at Zayn and Ari as well as some of her other chracters having a bit of a cameo. This was intriguing and quick to read. I also enjoyed that Rina has a speech impediment and is more reserved than some of Sarah's other female characters. However, I wish I had more of the characters and plot instead of it being compact into a novella.
May 17, 2022
Gah! My heart! Arlo and Rina are perfect together! Arlo is everything a bookish introvert like Rina could ask for.
Rina, her sisters and their mother are in danger. Her cousin, Zayn, sends his right hand man to protect them.
Rina has been secretly pining for Arlo for years and unbeknownst to her he feels the same way.
Zayn knows this and I have a sneaking suspicion it’s one of the reasons he sent Arlo in the first place since he had been encouraging Arlo to tell Rina for ages.
Arlo is such a big alpha cinnamon roll of man. He will unalive anyone that looks cross eyed at Rina but with her he is patient and understanding and gives her everything she needs to feel comfortable in the world.
She has some insecurities about having a stammer and he is so loving and patient with her and helps her with ways to communicate when she’s having a bad day.
But don’t mistake her having those insecurities for her not being a strong little bada$$!
This book is romantic and sweet with some spice and some drama thrown in. I loved it!
Rina, her sisters and their mother are in danger. Her cousin, Zayn, sends his right hand man to protect them.
Rina has been secretly pining for Arlo for years and unbeknownst to her he feels the same way.
Zayn knows this and I have a sneaking suspicion it’s one of the reasons he sent Arlo in the first place since he had been encouraging Arlo to tell Rina for ages.
Arlo is such a big alpha cinnamon roll of man. He will unalive anyone that looks cross eyed at Rina but with her he is patient and understanding and gives her everything she needs to feel comfortable in the world.
She has some insecurities about having a stammer and he is so loving and patient with her and helps her with ways to communicate when she’s having a bad day.
But don’t mistake her having those insecurities for her not being a strong little bada$$!
This book is romantic and sweet with some spice and some drama thrown in. I loved it!
May 14, 2022
It’s not a secret that I love Sarah’s Dark Universe. Any time there’s a cross over of characters in any capacity I get so excited. I was not disappointed!
We have met Arlo and Rina before and their story had to be told. They have secretly been longing for each other for years. When they find the courage to share their feelings the chemistry is instant.
Sarah did a fantastic job capturing Rina’s speech disability, how she struggled and how she and Arlo worked together to communicate. 🖤
As a person with a TBI I often struggle with language, oral and written. I appreciate when an author gives true representation of the barriers this causes in everyday life.
Thank you. 🖤
We have met Arlo and Rina before and their story had to be told. They have secretly been longing for each other for years. When they find the courage to share their feelings the chemistry is instant.
Sarah did a fantastic job capturing Rina’s speech disability, how she struggled and how she and Arlo worked together to communicate. 🖤
As a person with a TBI I often struggle with language, oral and written. I appreciate when an author gives true representation of the barriers this causes in everyday life.
Thank you. 🖤
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May 16, 2022⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶/5
So I loved this story. I knew from the moment I read “Tyrant” that I would love Arlo and that he would have this hidden sexy side to him. His inner monologue, talking about how enamoured with Rina he is and how he just can’t keep from spilling his feeling for her any longer… SWOON. I think we all wish we had an Arlo! I was giggling like a school girl at how cute they were!
Rina become a character that I think I will remember for a long time. Not only is she every reader EVER and we can connect to her on that level of wanting to be alone with our books, but she has a stutter/stammer. This really grounds her character. I love when we get characters that are not what is perceived to be stereotypically “perfect”. Characters that have real struggles or obstacles that allow us as readers to insert ourselves in their story if possible. This girl is such a fierce fighter for the people she loves and I really loved every second of it.
The spice was of course, in Sarah Bailey fashion, exceptional! The bookshelf scene was a standout for me. You’ve unlocked a book readers fantasy for a lot of people with that one Sarah!
So to recap, STEP ONE: read “Tyrant”, STEP TWO: read “Tease” when it comes out on May 27th. You’re going to love Arlo and Rina!
So I loved this story. I knew from the moment I read “Tyrant” that I would love Arlo and that he would have this hidden sexy side to him. His inner monologue, talking about how enamoured with Rina he is and how he just can’t keep from spilling his feeling for her any longer… SWOON. I think we all wish we had an Arlo! I was giggling like a school girl at how cute they were!
Rina become a character that I think I will remember for a long time. Not only is she every reader EVER and we can connect to her on that level of wanting to be alone with our books, but she has a stutter/stammer. This really grounds her character. I love when we get characters that are not what is perceived to be stereotypically “perfect”. Characters that have real struggles or obstacles that allow us as readers to insert ourselves in their story if possible. This girl is such a fierce fighter for the people she loves and I really loved every second of it.
The spice was of course, in Sarah Bailey fashion, exceptional! The bookshelf scene was a standout for me. You’ve unlocked a book readers fantasy for a lot of people with that one Sarah!
So to recap, STEP ONE: read “Tyrant”, STEP TWO: read “Tease” when it comes out on May 27th. You’re going to love Arlo and Rina!
May 17, 2022
Arlo and Rina are AMAZING!!
Tease is a dark, bodyguard romance. Its a novella in an interconnected standalone series. Tease should be read after Tyrant. Make sure to check Sarahs website for the trigger warning.
Since I read Tyrant, ive been looking forward to Arlos story. Tease is everything i was hoping for and more!!
Zayn sends Arlo to protect his aunt and cousins. Arlo has liked Tina for awhile but has never said anything. Rina is sweet and quiet, and loves her book boyfriends like we all do. She has wanted Arlo for years. Being around each other, their feelings come out and they finally give into what they have wanted for so long.
I love how Arlo is always looking out for Rina and telling her how much he wants her and that she is perfect the way she is. I love how much Rina grows and becomes more confident. Every single things out of this man's mouth will have you swooning!!! A1 dirty talk you guys!!!
Tease is absolutely amazing and i can't wait for more in this world!!!
Tease is a dark, bodyguard romance. Its a novella in an interconnected standalone series. Tease should be read after Tyrant. Make sure to check Sarahs website for the trigger warning.
Since I read Tyrant, ive been looking forward to Arlos story. Tease is everything i was hoping for and more!!
Zayn sends Arlo to protect his aunt and cousins. Arlo has liked Tina for awhile but has never said anything. Rina is sweet and quiet, and loves her book boyfriends like we all do. She has wanted Arlo for years. Being around each other, their feelings come out and they finally give into what they have wanted for so long.
I love how Arlo is always looking out for Rina and telling her how much he wants her and that she is perfect the way she is. I love how much Rina grows and becomes more confident. Every single things out of this man's mouth will have you swooning!!! A1 dirty talk you guys!!!
Tease is absolutely amazing and i can't wait for more in this world!!!
May 20, 2022
I loved Arlo and Rina’s story so much!! Arlo is Zayn’s second in command, and best friend; and Rina is Zayn’s cousin. When Rina and her family are in danger, Zayn sends Arlo to keep watch over them and keep them safe. Arlo and Rina have had an attraction for each other for a while, but neither of them have acted on it. Now being in such close proximity, they can no longer deny their attraction for one other. I adored Rina, she’s timid and quiet, and she isn’t afraid to stand up for and protect those she cares about. I want my very own Arlo. I loved every single thing about this man…and his words….swoon worthy! I highly recommend everyone read this book and fall in love with these characters like I did!
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