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Keir & Sailor Duet #1
Chained Hands
Sailor
My husband sold me.
Not only did he sell me, but he told me he loved me while doing the deal.
What lies he tells.
Only fools believe him.
Unfortunately, one of those fools was…
.. me.
Keir
Not in the habit of buying women.
I didn’t need to.
I was a king of my realm, the devil you whispered about in your sleep.
So when his debt fell due, he sold me his wife.
And I was happy because I wanted to play with her like any fool would.
And play with her, I did.
Pity, in the end, I would have to kill her.
My husband sold me.
Not only did he sell me, but he told me he loved me while doing the deal.
What lies he tells.
Only fools believe him.
Unfortunately, one of those fools was…
.. me.
Keir
Not in the habit of buying women.
I didn’t need to.
I was a king of my realm, the devil you whispered about in your sleep.
So when his debt fell due, he sold me his wife.
And I was happy because I wanted to play with her like any fool would.
And play with her, I did.
Pity, in the end, I would have to kill her.
284 pages, Hardcover
First published October 5, 2021
995 people are currently reading
21560 people want to read
About the author
T.L. Smith
87 books6,723 followersUSA Today Best Selling Author T.L. Smith loves to write her characters with flaws so beautiful and dark that you can’t turn away from. Her books have been translated into several languages. If you don’t find her in her home town of Queensland, Australia you can usually find her travelling around the world to sitting on a beach in Bali, to exploring Alcatraz in San Francisco or walking the streets of New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 739 reviews
October 2, 2021
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'CHAINED HANDS' is the first romance book in T.L. Smiths's 'Chained Hearts' duet. Spoken in 'Dual Perspectives.'
The BLURB alone had me anticipating this book, then one look at the COVER course I was signing up!!
This was so easy to get into, but not so easy to put down. I read this like the pages were on fire. Such a great start to this series and I am sticking around for the next book.
Keir reigns havoc over New York city as their reigning mafia King of the underworld, he's a man feared by all, he'll take what he wants, he'll kill without remorse, he's a cold hearted ruthless man whom you don't want to get on the wrong side of, a stone cold killer.
'𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫-𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬
𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞.
𝐈 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐚 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐭, 𝐩𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐲 𝐠𝐮𝐧 𝐨𝐮𝐭
𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲
𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭.'
Sailor was used as collateral, sold to Keir by her very own husband due to his gambling debts he had no way of paying in a hurry, he's got one week to come up with the funds or both will be six feet under.
When Keir first encountered Sailor she was like a walking trophy with no backbone easy to get in line, but it seemed like he was the one that rubbed her up the wrong way, because her claws came out and she grew a backbone over night and she's not going down without a fight, he was wrong to underestimate her.
It doesn't take long until she's under his skin...BUT what happens when her time runs out...
Like with most duets, this finds us falling down a cliffy, hopefully the next book won't be too far away.
'CHAINED HANDS' is the first romance book in T.L. Smiths's 'Chained Hearts' duet. Spoken in 'Dual Perspectives.'
The BLURB alone had me anticipating this book, then one look at the COVER course I was signing up!!
This was so easy to get into, but not so easy to put down. I read this like the pages were on fire. Such a great start to this series and I am sticking around for the next book.
Keir reigns havoc over New York city as their reigning mafia King of the underworld, he's a man feared by all, he'll take what he wants, he'll kill without remorse, he's a cold hearted ruthless man whom you don't want to get on the wrong side of, a stone cold killer.
'𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫-𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬
𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞.
𝐈 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐚 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐭, 𝐩𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐲 𝐠𝐮𝐧 𝐨𝐮𝐭
𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲
𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭.'
Sailor was used as collateral, sold to Keir by her very own husband due to his gambling debts he had no way of paying in a hurry, he's got one week to come up with the funds or both will be six feet under.
When Keir first encountered Sailor she was like a walking trophy with no backbone easy to get in line, but it seemed like he was the one that rubbed her up the wrong way, because her claws came out and she grew a backbone over night and she's not going down without a fight, he was wrong to underestimate her.
It doesn't take long until she's under his skin...BUT what happens when her time runs out...
Like with most duets, this finds us falling down a cliffy, hopefully the next book won't be too far away.
October 5, 2021
A fierce mafia king that will stop at nothing to get what he wants. He never expected the woman he took as collateral to change everything.
Keir is a mafia king. He takes what he wants. He’ll shoot you for disrespecting him faster than you can blink. The man is an absolute force.
Sailor was supposed to be payment for her husband’s debt. Once it’s settled Keir planned on killing her. However, the meek woman has found her back bone and she is not taking any flak from him. This woman will challenge him fearlessly.
Sailor has been betrayed by her husband, stolen from her life, but can’t stop the connection she feels to Keir. He is like gravity. Everything she wants but shouldn’t.
The two need to go back to their lives, but the plan has gone awry and Keir knows exactly what he wants. If only it were thst easy.
Wow!!! I was blown away by the chemistry and sexiness of this mafia romance. Keir is all alpha and he has no problem getting his way. Sailor may have been knocked down, but she’s back and ready to take back her true self and build her own future.
I look forward to book two because I am totally hooked on Keir and Sailor.
Keir is a mafia king. He takes what he wants. He’ll shoot you for disrespecting him faster than you can blink. The man is an absolute force.
Sailor was supposed to be payment for her husband’s debt. Once it’s settled Keir planned on killing her. However, the meek woman has found her back bone and she is not taking any flak from him. This woman will challenge him fearlessly.
Sailor has been betrayed by her husband, stolen from her life, but can’t stop the connection she feels to Keir. He is like gravity. Everything she wants but shouldn’t.
The two need to go back to their lives, but the plan has gone awry and Keir knows exactly what he wants. If only it were thst easy.
Wow!!! I was blown away by the chemistry and sexiness of this mafia romance. Keir is all alpha and he has no problem getting his way. Sailor may have been knocked down, but she’s back and ready to take back her true self and build her own future.
I look forward to book two because I am totally hooked on Keir and Sailor.
September 29, 2021
Oh Keir…yes please!! Sold by her husband, now Sailor is in the hands of another man…a bad one named Keir. He is owed a debt and Sailor is what’s paid to him. Can this notorious mafia bad boy change his ways when he meets this one woman? She is like no other he has met and isn’t scared to let her feistiness out. He finds that fact quite intriguing. Wow, from the very first chapter you are drawn into this captive, mafia romance. Keir is a delectable and ruthless mafia king that gets what he wants. The chemistry between these two scorches right off the pages and their banter is perfect! Mafia.Done.Right! Dark, steamy and everything else you could wish for within this genre! Will Keir get his lollipop to do what he says? I need book 2 ASAP as this ends in a major cliffhanger. Told in dual POV
December 26, 2021
2.5 Stars
Truth be told, I struggled with my rating on this one. On the one hand, this book is a hot mess. On the other hand, I read it in one sitting. I'm seriously bummed, because that blurb and cover were utterly delicious.
Let's start with the good. I loved the plot. Our heroine is a previous bad girl who married and lost herself. She became a bit of a doormat to her philandering husband and struggles with this new Sailor. Her douche of a husband takes her to a party, only to sell her as a debt to a ruthless mafia leader who shoots first and asks questions later. Suddenly Sailor finds her lady balls and becomes the sassy, fiery, bad girl that she was.
This is also where the book goes wrong for me. First, there was the writing style. There was no character development and it was extremely repetitive. If I had to read about how Keir plans to kill Sailor and everyone else one more time... Descriptions were reused frequently. Aside from repeating ad nauseam how ruthless and trigger happy Keir is, there's little to no development for him. The "romance" comes out of no where, much like Sailor's sudden personality change. And the dialogue was incredibly juvenile. These were grown adults who spoke like teenagers.
There were also Gossip Girl-like choppy bits of gossip/blog articles on Keir, which were weird AF and felt so incredibly out of place in a dark romance of this nature. I also felt there was really no need for this to have been a duet, because there were chapters that did nothing for the story that felt like filler.
Unfortunately, as much as I wanted to love this, I didn't. But clearly I'm in the minority, so take my thoughts with a grain of salt. I'm a picky ass, clearly. *shrugs* But this now being the third book I've tried for this author, I think I can safely say her writing style just doesn't work for me. Bummer, but it is what it is.
Find me on:
Truth be told, I struggled with my rating on this one. On the one hand, this book is a hot mess. On the other hand, I read it in one sitting. I'm seriously bummed, because that blurb and cover were utterly delicious.
Let's start with the good. I loved the plot. Our heroine is a previous bad girl who married and lost herself. She became a bit of a doormat to her philandering husband and struggles with this new Sailor. Her douche of a husband takes her to a party, only to sell her as a debt to a ruthless mafia leader who shoots first and asks questions later. Suddenly Sailor finds her lady balls and becomes the sassy, fiery, bad girl that she was.
This is also where the book goes wrong for me. First, there was the writing style. There was no character development and it was extremely repetitive. If I had to read about how Keir plans to kill Sailor and everyone else one more time... Descriptions were reused frequently. Aside from repeating ad nauseam how ruthless and trigger happy Keir is, there's little to no development for him. The "romance" comes out of no where, much like Sailor's sudden personality change. And the dialogue was incredibly juvenile. These were grown adults who spoke like teenagers.
There were also Gossip Girl-like choppy bits of gossip/blog articles on Keir, which were weird AF and felt so incredibly out of place in a dark romance of this nature. I also felt there was really no need for this to have been a duet, because there were chapters that did nothing for the story that felt like filler.
Unfortunately, as much as I wanted to love this, I didn't. But clearly I'm in the minority, so take my thoughts with a grain of salt. I'm a picky ass, clearly. *shrugs* But this now being the third book I've tried for this author, I think I can safely say her writing style just doesn't work for me. Bummer, but it is what it is.
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dnf
July 5, 2023dnf at 10%
I really really can't take this book seriously 😭😭
Might come back to it if i want to laugh bc it seems quick and funny
I really really can't take this book seriously 😭😭
Might come back to it if i want to laugh bc it seems quick and funny
October 8, 2021
Damn T.L… you threw the gloves off in this one didnt you? what a way to make us loathe and love a few characters at the same time with this twisty crazy fucked up dynamic because let’s be real:
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Sailor has known that her life wasn't perfect but she had a husband who loved her and would do anything for her. Or so thought. Quickly getting a rude awakening on the type of man that he husband is and what he’s gotten himself into, Sailor is now forced to come face to face with someone who makes the devil looks like a gentleman.
Now facing a new dangerous reality, Sailor has to come to terms with betrayals, temptation, and getting rid of a man who has the power to obliterate her quiet life. They say every king needs a queen but for a woman like Sailor, shell gladly sit on a throne by herself.
First off I have to say that I don't want part 2 of this book. I FUCKING NEED IT!!! With that cliffhanger, I’m going to be walking back and forth in my house morning noon and night like a crazy person until my mind can be at ease again. I loved the seeing the evolution of Sailor and the grittiness of the story. These characters did things that were unforgivable at times and you wondered ‘how can they be so messed up? but they were and you know what? I loved it!!!
If you're looking for a dark sexy mafia romance series, then you should definitely give this one a try.
Please note that this book ends on a cliffhanger.
[image error]
Sailor has known that her life wasn't perfect but she had a husband who loved her and would do anything for her. Or so thought. Quickly getting a rude awakening on the type of man that he husband is and what he’s gotten himself into, Sailor is now forced to come face to face with someone who makes the devil looks like a gentleman.
Now facing a new dangerous reality, Sailor has to come to terms with betrayals, temptation, and getting rid of a man who has the power to obliterate her quiet life. They say every king needs a queen but for a woman like Sailor, shell gladly sit on a throne by herself.
First off I have to say that I don't want part 2 of this book. I FUCKING NEED IT!!! With that cliffhanger, I’m going to be walking back and forth in my house morning noon and night like a crazy person until my mind can be at ease again. I loved the seeing the evolution of Sailor and the grittiness of the story. These characters did things that were unforgivable at times and you wondered ‘how can they be so messed up? but they were and you know what? I loved it!!!
If you're looking for a dark sexy mafia romance series, then you should definitely give this one a try.
Please note that this book ends on a cliffhanger.
October 6, 2021
MY RATING: 1*
RELEASE DATE: 06 October 2021
CLIFFHANGER: Yes
ARC was kindly provided for an honest review
I can literary review this book using the GIF above. That’s it. You’re welcome. You don’t need to read the rest of my review, thanks for coming.
Man, did I have I high hopes for this book. The blurb alone had me salivating for it. When I sign up for ARCs I read the blurb and think yeah, that sounds amazing. Fast forward a few days to a few weeks, the ARC arrives, and I don’t bother reading the blurb again. I figure, I read the blurb and liked it when I signed up, so its fine. Ill go in blind so to speak. But my goodness, does it backfire sometimes.
At some point I had to go back and read then blurb because it thought why the hell did I sign up for this? The story did not resemble anything sold by the blurb.
Basically, the blurb conned me.
Apparently, the heroin got married to some asshole who sold her to another asshole who was supposed to be mafia. Let me tell you, he’s mafia in name only. Said heroin was the kind of wife who was a badass at some point, married her douche husband, decided being a pussycat wife was better, did that, husband took advantage, got himself into some shit, sold her off as payment for said shit. But somehow, almost overnight she finds her lady balls when she’s with the MAFIA DON that she apparently misplaced when she was married to the bitch ass husband. She’s rebellious, stubborn, defiant etc overnight. I mean what’s that about?
I’ve read this story in its variation so many times by now.
I don’t think this should have been a full novel. Heaven only knows why it’s a duet. Nothing happened to warrant that lengthening of the story.
September 29, 2022
Tf did I just read😐
do-not-read-cheating
September 9, 2023Cheating. Ow drama. Long separation. He keeps sleeping with other women. This is not for me
Here’s a better review with spoilers
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Here’s a better review with spoilers
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2021
Fantastic!
October 3, 2021
A heroine with a back bone?? Yes please! An asshole through and through?? I’ll take him! This was a really fun start and I know the wait until November will kill me.
ARC
ARC
October 3, 2021
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ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : Yes
Hero : Keir
Heroine : Sailor
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 5/10
Heat Rating : 6/10
Triggers Involved : Kidnapping , Bullying , Forced Proximity
Plot Summary :
Sailor never had an easy life but now it is worse.. Because her husband sold her. He sold her to the mafia king of NY. Keir is a man who likes to play with his toys and now that is what would happen with her and there is nothing she can do about it. It was all over for her. She only had the king to blame for it and she was at his mercy now. Too bad he never had any.
Keir ruled over his kingdom with an iron Fist. He was never one to deny an opportunity to have a new toy. Which is what he said when a desperate man in debt sold his wife to him. He would play with her like any good master would. Only he would not keep her. The only end she had was to die. There was no happy ending for her.
Overall Opinion :
I have been anticipating this book ever since I read that blurb. Dark mafia romances with a hero was the king? Sign me the hell up! I am all for this type of darkness and there is no way I was going to miss this one. Keir and Sailor had a dark tale that pulled at my sanity and made me love every word of it. The ending threw me a bit and I can't wait for the next book now! It's so freaking good!
Definitely recommending this one to all the dark mafia romance loving people out there. It's a cliffhanger and has all the elements your mafia romance loving heart desires!
Website | Bookstagram | Facebook Page | Newsletter
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : Yes
Hero : Keir
Heroine : Sailor
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 5/10
Heat Rating : 6/10
Triggers Involved : Kidnapping , Bullying , Forced Proximity
Plot Summary :
Sailor never had an easy life but now it is worse.. Because her husband sold her. He sold her to the mafia king of NY. Keir is a man who likes to play with his toys and now that is what would happen with her and there is nothing she can do about it. It was all over for her. She only had the king to blame for it and she was at his mercy now. Too bad he never had any.
Keir ruled over his kingdom with an iron Fist. He was never one to deny an opportunity to have a new toy. Which is what he said when a desperate man in debt sold his wife to him. He would play with her like any good master would. Only he would not keep her. The only end she had was to die. There was no happy ending for her.
Overall Opinion :
I have been anticipating this book ever since I read that blurb. Dark mafia romances with a hero was the king? Sign me the hell up! I am all for this type of darkness and there is no way I was going to miss this one. Keir and Sailor had a dark tale that pulled at my sanity and made me love every word of it. The ending threw me a bit and I can't wait for the next book now! It's so freaking good!
Definitely recommending this one to all the dark mafia romance loving people out there. It's a cliffhanger and has all the elements your mafia romance loving heart desires!
Website | Bookstagram | Facebook Page | Newsletter
October 7, 2021
I love the bold gusto that I’ve come to expect about a TL Smith dark world story. Her stories are fast paced, unapologetically gritty, and full of feisty energy. This blurb gave me all the happy tingles- forced arrangement, sold wife, mafia king? YUMMY YUMMY.
I knew going in this was a duet, which meant not only we’d end in an epically jaw dropping TL Smith style cliff hanger, but that we’d also only get part of the truths of these characters and their dynamic. And, overall I enjoyed this first installment. Keir is deliciously alpha. He acquires the at first meek, then sassy Sailor from her slimeball husband to pay a debt. But Keir soon finds his interest in the spunky Sailor to be far more than collateral. Cue the fireworks and all the push pull.
The chemistry between them is intense and engaging, and I loved watching this dark alpha try to control this every strengthening woman who has had about enough of men controlling her. I loved her spark, though art first I was perplexed at how quickly she evolves as a character- from the veritable doormat she appears to be early on to the feisty ballbuster she evolves into later. But, her quick transformation makes for the most interesting dynamics of this story- her battle of wills and hearts with Keir. We’ve got plenty of steam and a pretty insulated focus on the dynamic between these two. I appreciate how TL Smith plays around with power dynamics when it comes to her love stories- and this one is quite intriguing. Looking forward to book 2!
I knew going in this was a duet, which meant not only we’d end in an epically jaw dropping TL Smith style cliff hanger, but that we’d also only get part of the truths of these characters and their dynamic. And, overall I enjoyed this first installment. Keir is deliciously alpha. He acquires the at first meek, then sassy Sailor from her slimeball husband to pay a debt. But Keir soon finds his interest in the spunky Sailor to be far more than collateral. Cue the fireworks and all the push pull.
The chemistry between them is intense and engaging, and I loved watching this dark alpha try to control this every strengthening woman who has had about enough of men controlling her. I loved her spark, though art first I was perplexed at how quickly she evolves as a character- from the veritable doormat she appears to be early on to the feisty ballbuster she evolves into later. But, her quick transformation makes for the most interesting dynamics of this story- her battle of wills and hearts with Keir. We’ve got plenty of steam and a pretty insulated focus on the dynamic between these two. I appreciate how TL Smith plays around with power dynamics when it comes to her love stories- and this one is quite intriguing. Looking forward to book 2!
October 4, 2021
Holy dark read Batman! I couldn’t put this book down. I needed to know what happened next. Needless to say the ending only slightly surprised me but the book overall was one big surprise.
I loved Keir & his dark & deadly side. It was hot. Like red hot. I also loved Sailor & her sass & badass take no shit attitude. These two are either going to screw or kill each other haha I love it! Made for such an intense & dark read. I can’t wait for book two!
I loved Keir & his dark & deadly side. It was hot. Like red hot. I also loved Sailor & her sass & badass take no shit attitude. These two are either going to screw or kill each other haha I love it! Made for such an intense & dark read. I can’t wait for book two!
October 4, 2021
This is already an intense start to the duet. Sailor and Keir's story had my attention. I couldn't put it down. But am I the only one who thought their connection was somehow forced? Other than that, I loved Sailor's character. She was a bad girl who turned into a good girl because she wanted the marriage, kids, and a happy family. But somehow her husband had turned her life upside down by selling her to the mafia. So with Keir, she unleashes her bad girl side again and I loved that challenged him and not made it easy for him to control her. I can't wait for the continuation of their story.
February 22, 2022
Can I say that TikTok made me read this book? Seriously though it sounded interesting, so I went ahead and read it. I can say that Sailor and Keir's story was enjoyable even if I found some aspects quite irritating.
October 13, 2021
4.5 smokin' stars
Ever devoted wife, Sailor, discovers that her husband sold her to the head of the mafia in exchange for his debt, which it seems he has no intention on repaying. But Sailor doesn't know that mafioso Keir has always had his eye on her even with his closed heart and his single-minded ruthlessness in the underground.
This book was pure entertainment -- great story, great characters. Sailor, seemingly meek, had a past of misdeeds. A disastrous marriage had her disguising who she really was in favor of becoming something she thought she should be — until Keir. Keir was the dark, broody, and charming antihero who sparked the return of her true autonomous, confident, and sassy self. This phoenixed Sailor could hold her own against the feared crime lord. Sailor displayed strength with just the right amount of submissiveness to the dominant, bad boy Keir. This ying and yang of their personalities meshed so well; in fact, made them irresistible to each other.
Some tongue in cheek humor is this book, for sure. I always felt a bit of humor under the surface, that the characters didn’t take themselves too seriously despite the antihero’s role. While Keir indicated he would yield to violence -- he was depicted as a cold and controlled main -- he was ever protective of his Sailor, enthralled with her from the beginning.
Sailor and Keir's chemistry was electric and immediate. There was spiciness from the beginning and peppered throughout the book. I liked their honest attraction and no denials or playing hard to get for contrived build up. Sparks upon first meeting, making for a smitten crime lord and new lady with some steamy activity.
Moderate and progressive pace with the added thrill of mafia backdrop, this story held my attention throughout. Side characters, particularly Keir's brothers, one flirtatious and light, the other dark, were a fun mix and contrast. All contributed to the intriguing plot. I really loved reading adult characters in a more mature storyline, a nice change from the (trending) new adult / high school trope.
Keir was probably my favorite hero since Atlas in the Heartbreak duet. A mafia romance whose storyline, while not necessarily complex, was honest and entertaining with wonderful characters. And that cliffhanger…I want more!
Ever devoted wife, Sailor, discovers that her husband sold her to the head of the mafia in exchange for his debt, which it seems he has no intention on repaying. But Sailor doesn't know that mafioso Keir has always had his eye on her even with his closed heart and his single-minded ruthlessness in the underground.
This book was pure entertainment -- great story, great characters. Sailor, seemingly meek, had a past of misdeeds. A disastrous marriage had her disguising who she really was in favor of becoming something she thought she should be — until Keir. Keir was the dark, broody, and charming antihero who sparked the return of her true autonomous, confident, and sassy self. This phoenixed Sailor could hold her own against the feared crime lord. Sailor displayed strength with just the right amount of submissiveness to the dominant, bad boy Keir. This ying and yang of their personalities meshed so well; in fact, made them irresistible to each other.
Some tongue in cheek humor is this book, for sure. I always felt a bit of humor under the surface, that the characters didn’t take themselves too seriously despite the antihero’s role. While Keir indicated he would yield to violence -- he was depicted as a cold and controlled main -- he was ever protective of his Sailor, enthralled with her from the beginning.
Sailor and Keir's chemistry was electric and immediate. There was spiciness from the beginning and peppered throughout the book. I liked their honest attraction and no denials or playing hard to get for contrived build up. Sparks upon first meeting, making for a smitten crime lord and new lady with some steamy activity.
Moderate and progressive pace with the added thrill of mafia backdrop, this story held my attention throughout. Side characters, particularly Keir's brothers, one flirtatious and light, the other dark, were a fun mix and contrast. All contributed to the intriguing plot. I really loved reading adult characters in a more mature storyline, a nice change from the (trending) new adult / high school trope.
Keir was probably my favorite hero since Atlas in the Heartbreak duet. A mafia romance whose storyline, while not necessarily complex, was honest and entertaining with wonderful characters. And that cliffhanger…I want more!
October 2, 2021
Amount of sex 3 / 5
How explicit is the sex scenes 4 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
Chained Hands is the first book in the Chained Hearts duet written by author T.L. Smith. It tells the story of Sailor and Keir, and it was intense, gritty, and I seriously couldn’t put it down! I have a weakness for mafia romances, and I was hanging onto every word like it was my lifeline! Just a reminder, since this is the first book in a duet, be prepared for it to end in an epic cliffhanger!
Chained Hands is an amazing, jaw-dropping story that you should read and experience without any spoilers. Therefore, I'm not going to go into any details. However, I can tell you that Keir has a mysterious and dangerous aura that makes me absolutely weak in the knees. Also, I felt bad for Sailor and the situation she was put in, but I loved how strong she became. Oh, and when I got to those last few chapters, I about died!
T.L. Smith has a way of developing such engaging and complex characters that completely captivates you. I’m counting the days until Locked Hearts, the final book in the duet, is released!
Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy
How explicit is the sex scenes 4 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
Chained Hands is the first book in the Chained Hearts duet written by author T.L. Smith. It tells the story of Sailor and Keir, and it was intense, gritty, and I seriously couldn’t put it down! I have a weakness for mafia romances, and I was hanging onto every word like it was my lifeline! Just a reminder, since this is the first book in a duet, be prepared for it to end in an epic cliffhanger!
Chained Hands is an amazing, jaw-dropping story that you should read and experience without any spoilers. Therefore, I'm not going to go into any details. However, I can tell you that Keir has a mysterious and dangerous aura that makes me absolutely weak in the knees. Also, I felt bad for Sailor and the situation she was put in, but I loved how strong she became. Oh, and when I got to those last few chapters, I about died!
T.L. Smith has a way of developing such engaging and complex characters that completely captivates you. I’m counting the days until Locked Hearts, the final book in the duet, is released!
Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy
September 30, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 Stars
🌶🌶🌶/5 spice
Damn this was good.
This book grabs you from the beginning & it doesn’t stop. It’s fast, it’s dark, it’s spicey & the MC’s are 😘
Sailor is FIERCE. I internally shouted “Yas Queen” so many times. It was great reading her find her inner strength again & be unashamedly herself!
Keir is 🥵 why are mafia men so attractive? Why am I obsessed with reading about them? 😂
I LOVED the story in this. The plot wasn’t so driven by spice (not that I would’ve complained about that because what was there was gooooood) & the way it unfolded was great. This book didn’t totally go how I expected, it wasn’t overly predictable which made it so much more fun!
I had a sneaky suspicion on the ending, but still didn’t predict it all!
Now I’ll be impatiently waiting for the next book cause I neeeeeed to know what happens next 😂
🌶🌶🌶/5 spice
Damn this was good.
This book grabs you from the beginning & it doesn’t stop. It’s fast, it’s dark, it’s spicey & the MC’s are 😘
Sailor is FIERCE. I internally shouted “Yas Queen” so many times. It was great reading her find her inner strength again & be unashamedly herself!
Keir is 🥵 why are mafia men so attractive? Why am I obsessed with reading about them? 😂
I LOVED the story in this. The plot wasn’t so driven by spice (not that I would’ve complained about that because what was there was gooooood) & the way it unfolded was great. This book didn’t totally go how I expected, it wasn’t overly predictable which made it so much more fun!
I had a sneaky suspicion on the ending, but still didn’t predict it all!
Now I’ll be impatiently waiting for the next book cause I neeeeeed to know what happens next 😂
October 4, 2021
Holy Hell! That is my first thought after reading this book. Ok, so I have never had a fantasy of being sold to someone. Yet, if that someone is like Keir, I might just have to reconsider the possibility.
Keir is the ultimate alpha male. He has this cool and tough exterior but behind closed doors he is not afraid to get on his knees and please Sailor. Keir knows how to use his tongue. Sailor is a strong woman. I like that she tested Keir and did not easily fall for his charms at every chance she got.
Once I started reading this book, I could not stop. Now all I hear in my head is Keir's voice. Fifty Shades of Grey is not even in the same league as this book. I can't wait to read the continuation of this hot and steamy duet.
Keir is the ultimate alpha male. He has this cool and tough exterior but behind closed doors he is not afraid to get on his knees and please Sailor. Keir knows how to use his tongue. Sailor is a strong woman. I like that she tested Keir and did not easily fall for his charms at every chance she got.
Once I started reading this book, I could not stop. Now all I hear in my head is Keir's voice. Fifty Shades of Grey is not even in the same league as this book. I can't wait to read the continuation of this hot and steamy duet.
October 5, 2021
5 PHENOMENAL DARK STARS!! Here we go again....I could not put this book down. T.L. Smith writes dark sexy stories like no other other. Keir and Sailor will take you on one heck of a ride and you will love every second of it. You must read this delicious book.
August 26, 2024
I’ve seen better writing on Wattpad. I need to stop getting sucked in on one liner TikTok’s
October 14, 2021
***4 "Lollipop!!!" stars***
NOW AVAILABLE!!!!
"We get told of fairy tales, of Prince Charming, but what about the devils that live below? Do they not need love too?"
This book was kind of fucked up!!! The main characters were soooo messed up!!!
But guess what??? Maybe I'm kind of fucked up myself, cause I liked it... a lot!!!
This was a very dark and sexy mafia romance.... and after that darn cliffy, I can not wait for the second part of this messed up story...
Sailor and Keir were incredible together, even though they started on the wrong foot...
"Some things are made to be broken..."
Sailor was living a boring life along with her husband... She thought she was happy and she was okay with everything that he was giving her, even when she wasn't fully satisfied...
Everything changed when she discovered that she was being sold by... her husband to the mafia!!!
And now, she has to go with the head of Mafia and who knows how she will end up!!!
"Keir is the man you stay away from, far away from."
Keir was coldhearted, ruthless and with no remorse... He had no feelings for anyone and he was used to getting whatever he wanted... even though it would end up dead on his hands...
He didn't want another man's wife as collateral but he had no other choice... After all, she was a pretty little thing to look at, so it will be pity when he will take her life...
"I've been reared to be desensitized to love. To not care. My father raised me to be as ruthless as they come."
These two were brought together by unfortunate circumstances...
Sailor was a woman that was following her husband on everything he wanted, but in Keir's presence we saw her bloom to something different, wild and full of sass...
Keir is not used to people saying no to him and it seems that this woman's purpose in life is to defy and challenge him... It will be so easy to put a bullet between her eyes, but she has the ability to get under his skin and he kind of like her there...
"It's those black butterflies, I tell you. And those chained hands, that never seem to break, no matter how much I try to pull away from him when he is around."
These two were complicated, but there was fire between them...
They are complete opposite, but they are fitting very well...
Each interaction was intense and had a great impact on both of them...
They started to change and they had each other to blame...
I'm really wondering how they will end up in the next book... I'm anticipating it like crazy!!!
"Can you love and hate someone at the same time?"
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
NOW AVAILABLE!!!!
"We get told of fairy tales, of Prince Charming, but what about the devils that live below? Do they not need love too?"
This book was kind of fucked up!!! The main characters were soooo messed up!!!
But guess what??? Maybe I'm kind of fucked up myself, cause I liked it... a lot!!!
This was a very dark and sexy mafia romance.... and after that darn cliffy, I can not wait for the second part of this messed up story...
Sailor and Keir were incredible together, even though they started on the wrong foot...
"Some things are made to be broken..."
Sailor was living a boring life along with her husband... She thought she was happy and she was okay with everything that he was giving her, even when she wasn't fully satisfied...
Everything changed when she discovered that she was being sold by... her husband to the mafia!!!
And now, she has to go with the head of Mafia and who knows how she will end up!!!
"Keir is the man you stay away from, far away from."
Keir was coldhearted, ruthless and with no remorse... He had no feelings for anyone and he was used to getting whatever he wanted... even though it would end up dead on his hands...
He didn't want another man's wife as collateral but he had no other choice... After all, she was a pretty little thing to look at, so it will be pity when he will take her life...
"I've been reared to be desensitized to love. To not care. My father raised me to be as ruthless as they come."
These two were brought together by unfortunate circumstances...
Sailor was a woman that was following her husband on everything he wanted, but in Keir's presence we saw her bloom to something different, wild and full of sass...
Keir is not used to people saying no to him and it seems that this woman's purpose in life is to defy and challenge him... It will be so easy to put a bullet between her eyes, but she has the ability to get under his skin and he kind of like her there...
"It's those black butterflies, I tell you. And those chained hands, that never seem to break, no matter how much I try to pull away from him when he is around."
These two were complicated, but there was fire between them...
They are complete opposite, but they are fitting very well...
Each interaction was intense and had a great impact on both of them...
They started to change and they had each other to blame...
I'm really wondering how they will end up in the next book... I'm anticipating it like crazy!!!
"Can you love and hate someone at the same time?"
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
September 30, 2021
OMG, I was totally captivated by this story from the very first page and couldn’t put it down! If I could give it more than five stars I would! I need the next half now!
Reading the blurb I knew Sailor’s husband wasn’t a great guy but hello, I literally wanted to throat punch him when reading this book and no I am not a violent person. He is such a douche canoe and that’s being nice! This author truly knows how to build evil character descriptions up so brilliantly. In actual fact, she knows how to build all character descriptions so well that by the end you feel like you know them or want to get to know them better.
Sailor is quite a complicated character in that she starts out quite docile but doesn’t stay this way, mind you thank goodness too. I loved her backbone and sass, I couldn’t help but cheer her on every time she didn’t take any rubbish from anybody. How she took it from her husband amazes me but to be honest, I think it shocked her too! 😆
Keir is also a complex character and even though you could dislike him I think it would be difficult. Yes, he isn’t the easiest man to get along with and doesn’t do the touchy-feely stuff but I think the old nature versus nurture is evident here, with his upbringing playing an enormous part in how he is as an adult. Bottom line—I like him.
There is plenty of drama and excitement as well as passion but it is all balanced perfectly within this terrific storyline. This is a fast-paced story and I didn’t want it to end, thus the need for the next one right now! The quality of the writing in this story speaks for itself and I can only urge you to read this so you can enjoy it too. I feel there are going to be big things in store for readers in the second half of this duet!
Reading the blurb I knew Sailor’s husband wasn’t a great guy but hello, I literally wanted to throat punch him when reading this book and no I am not a violent person. He is such a douche canoe and that’s being nice! This author truly knows how to build evil character descriptions up so brilliantly. In actual fact, she knows how to build all character descriptions so well that by the end you feel like you know them or want to get to know them better.
Sailor is quite a complicated character in that she starts out quite docile but doesn’t stay this way, mind you thank goodness too. I loved her backbone and sass, I couldn’t help but cheer her on every time she didn’t take any rubbish from anybody. How she took it from her husband amazes me but to be honest, I think it shocked her too! 😆
Keir is also a complex character and even though you could dislike him I think it would be difficult. Yes, he isn’t the easiest man to get along with and doesn’t do the touchy-feely stuff but I think the old nature versus nurture is evident here, with his upbringing playing an enormous part in how he is as an adult. Bottom line—I like him.
There is plenty of drama and excitement as well as passion but it is all balanced perfectly within this terrific storyline. This is a fast-paced story and I didn’t want it to end, thus the need for the next one right now! The quality of the writing in this story speaks for itself and I can only urge you to read this so you can enjoy it too. I feel there are going to be big things in store for readers in the second half of this duet!
October 6, 2021
5 fantastic stars!!
This is book one of the “Chained Hearts Duet”, and ends in one hell of a cliffy. I don’t have it in me to wait for book two, I need it like yesterday!!
*Reader-made teaser. I acknowledge the copyrights of the photographers who own these images.
Omg this book was epic! I’m all for the broody alpha male who falls for the spicy chick. I don’t even have words for how I am feeling right now. The end of the book was like bomb after bomb. Damn this author always knows how to have you hanging on by your fingernails. I have NEVER been disappointed by one of her books.
The characters are amazing. I literally picked this book up and then never put it down. I couldn’t even if I had to. I was so deep in this book it was amazing!!!
If you enjoy mafia romance, sexiness, spice, a broody asshole, some suspense, murder, a bad ass chick and some kick ass secondary characters this is the book for you!! Trust nobody!!!
**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
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This is book one of the “Chained Hearts Duet”, and ends in one hell of a cliffy. I don’t have it in me to wait for book two, I need it like yesterday!!
*Reader-made teaser. I acknowledge the copyrights of the photographers who own these images.Omg this book was epic! I’m all for the broody alpha male who falls for the spicy chick. I don’t even have words for how I am feeling right now. The end of the book was like bomb after bomb. Damn this author always knows how to have you hanging on by your fingernails. I have NEVER been disappointed by one of her books.
The characters are amazing. I literally picked this book up and then never put it down. I couldn’t even if I had to. I was so deep in this book it was amazing!!!
If you enjoy mafia romance, sexiness, spice, a broody asshole, some suspense, murder, a bad ass chick and some kick ass secondary characters this is the book for you!! Trust nobody!!!
**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
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October 1, 2021
Arghhh!!! This book!!
This story is an absolute ride…
I love these characters…when we first meet Sailor she is pretty downtrodden and relies heavily on her husband…as the story develops her character blossoms and then we see the real Sailor and man she is feisty!
Keir is the king of the underworld, ruthless, nasty, cares for no one except for himself….then he buys Sailor and all bets are off!
The banter and interactions between these two is perfect, I love that she challenges him at every turn and he has no idea how to handle her!!
This book has the best kind of enemies to lovers storyline and I was totally there for it…that ending though….holy shizballs the next book is going to be a riot of epic proportions!!! Can’t wait😱
This story is an absolute ride…
I love these characters…when we first meet Sailor she is pretty downtrodden and relies heavily on her husband…as the story develops her character blossoms and then we see the real Sailor and man she is feisty!
Keir is the king of the underworld, ruthless, nasty, cares for no one except for himself….then he buys Sailor and all bets are off!
The banter and interactions between these two is perfect, I love that she challenges him at every turn and he has no idea how to handle her!!
This book has the best kind of enemies to lovers storyline and I was totally there for it…that ending though….holy shizballs the next book is going to be a riot of epic proportions!!! Can’t wait😱
October 5, 2021
This book was sooo good! I love a good dark mafia romance and this has all the makings of one ! The unique storyline drew me in and I was hooked the chemistry between Keir and Sailor is explosive it’s intense and so hot and OMG that ending!!! Aghhh I need the next book now please!!!
October 6, 2021
Chained Hands
I loved this one !
I couldn’t not put it down !!
Mafia romance might just be my new thing ! I can’t wait do the next book !! It seems to far away.
I love these characters they where so easy to fall in love or love hate or just a full on hate relationship with .
I loved this one !
I couldn’t not put it down !!
Mafia romance might just be my new thing ! I can’t wait do the next book !! It seems to far away.
I love these characters they where so easy to fall in love or love hate or just a full on hate relationship with .
October 2, 2021
Wow I was not expecting that little turn of events!!!
I really do love when you think you know which way a book is going to go then all of a sudden BOOM 🤯 we’re on a completely different pathway!
I do love a good TL Smith book but this one has more edge, more grit a little bit more sass and more evilness sprinkled on top.
I Thoroughly enjoyed Chained Hands and cannot wait to dive into book 2 📚❤️📚❤️📚❤️
I really do love when you think you know which way a book is going to go then all of a sudden BOOM 🤯 we’re on a completely different pathway!
I do love a good TL Smith book but this one has more edge, more grit a little bit more sass and more evilness sprinkled on top.
I Thoroughly enjoyed Chained Hands and cannot wait to dive into book 2 📚❤️📚❤️📚❤️
October 7, 2021
4.5 deviously gripping stars
TL had me gripped from the very beginning. She has given us a story filled with drama and steam, making it hard to put it down until you have finished and then leave you screaming for more.
No-one delivers characters that want to hate, that your head tells you you SHOULD hate but yet you can’t. Characters that completely draw you in, like Keir.
I did enjoy watching Sailor grow, develop some sass. Even though she’s been dealt a majorly bad hand by the men in her life she did grow in strength and I loved that!
My only criticism is that this book is a duet and that means I want the next book NOW!!
ARC Received In exchange for an honest review from the Author
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TL had me gripped from the very beginning. She has given us a story filled with drama and steam, making it hard to put it down until you have finished and then leave you screaming for more.
No-one delivers characters that want to hate, that your head tells you you SHOULD hate but yet you can’t. Characters that completely draw you in, like Keir.
I did enjoy watching Sailor grow, develop some sass. Even though she’s been dealt a majorly bad hand by the men in her life she did grow in strength and I loved that!
My only criticism is that this book is a duet and that means I want the next book NOW!!
ARC Received In exchange for an honest review from the Author
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