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The Institute #1
Ruthless Hunter
She ran from me...but she won't get far...
Pretty, plain Annalise Eden.
She's the one they secretly call 'the Ghost'.
The daughter of a man who's made my family millions.
Millions she stole thinking she's saving her father.
But she's wrong.
Wrong about it all...
About him.
About me.
Especially about me.
She's run to a place she thinks is safe.
An island that's heavily guarded in the middle of nowhere.
Filled with those like me...
Rich. Dangerous. Mafia.
But hiding amongst my kind won't save her.
I'll hunt her. I'll corner her. I'll claim her too.
I'll show her exactly who I am.
And when she falls for me she won't ever run from me again.
Pretty, plain Annalise Eden.
She's the one they secretly call 'the Ghost'.
The daughter of a man who's made my family millions.
Millions she stole thinking she's saving her father.
But she's wrong.
Wrong about it all...
About him.
About me.
Especially about me.
She's run to a place she thinks is safe.
An island that's heavily guarded in the middle of nowhere.
Filled with those like me...
Rich. Dangerous. Mafia.
But hiding amongst my kind won't save her.
I'll hunt her. I'll corner her. I'll claim her too.
I'll show her exactly who I am.
And when she falls for me she won't ever run from me again.
560 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2022
218 people are currently reading
3705 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
September 7, 2022
Five stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was everything you could ever want in a book. Innocent heroine? Jealous/possessive hero who will burn the world down for his girl? Tons of tension-filled moments and fabulous smut? Checkmark.
I enjoyed this book. AK Rose is quickly becoming a favorite of mine! This is part of an interconnected series but can be read on its own. Five shining stars. ♡
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was everything you could ever want in a book. Innocent heroine? Jealous/possessive hero who will burn the world down for his girl? Tons of tension-filled moments and fabulous smut? Checkmark.
I enjoyed this book. AK Rose is quickly becoming a favorite of mine! This is part of an interconnected series but can be read on its own. Five shining stars. ♡
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2022
It turns out that I have already read this book, this is a reprint of this book
May 20, 2025
So slow start and initially hard to follow, but then it starts getting good!! I did find myself gravitating more to Kat which I’m so glad she has her own story! I did like this one though, tough to route since all bad BUT looove the idea that there would be a school to teach all the dirty misdeeds- oh yes I’d sign up LOL!
September 9, 2022
It took me a bit to get fully invested in this story, but when I did- Wow! Finley and Anna were fire!
They were tied together by dangerous men, others that were good, but just in too deep and mafia rules that must be upheld above all else. They soon became friends and almost an ally for the other. A little bit of light and calm in a dark world that soon would be shattered.
They are thrust back together and now both attend a highly regarded institute for the mafia world. This is where the heirs come to hone their skills needed to be the baddest in all of the land. Someone a nobody in that world is enrolled. She needs to keep her eyes open, her heart locked up and her trust close to her heart.
About halfway into this book things started falling into place story wise and I was captivated. These two had chemistry that was so hot. There was mystery and mayhem, secrets and deceit, lust and hate. What a great start to a new mafia world!
They were tied together by dangerous men, others that were good, but just in too deep and mafia rules that must be upheld above all else. They soon became friends and almost an ally for the other. A little bit of light and calm in a dark world that soon would be shattered.
They are thrust back together and now both attend a highly regarded institute for the mafia world. This is where the heirs come to hone their skills needed to be the baddest in all of the land. Someone a nobody in that world is enrolled. She needs to keep her eyes open, her heart locked up and her trust close to her heart.
About halfway into this book things started falling into place story wise and I was captivated. These two had chemistry that was so hot. There was mystery and mayhem, secrets and deceit, lust and hate. What a great start to a new mafia world!
December 19, 2022
Confused
I'm so confused right now with this book.
It was almost like there was a book or just whole chapters missing.
It started strong but then just went weird.. there was just no Romantic build for Anna and Fin it was straight into smut, then she gets poisoned he takes care of her but the whole time he is just thinking about sex, literally the next day she gets attacked by her rooms mates abusive BF so she moves in with Fin and even though she would have a major concussion and body bruised nope let's have sex WTF.. then we are at the main part of WTH is even the point of this story and what do you know its save your dad or have sex with him just in the next room.
Then Time jump of "months" is that 2 months, 5 months.. next minute Anna's ex roomate Kat has a baby and is loved up with Lazarus... ok was she pregannt on the island as that is the only way and she was in a abusive sex, drug and drinking filled relationship there so...
oh and lets not mention some random subplot that makes no sense but explains why Fin and Laz are now friends 😳.
We have also given up entirely on finding out who the hell killed Fins mum... just poof forgotten over it.. and then it basically just ends with the most unclimatic end I have ever seen...
3 guys 1 girl (who out of no where can handle a gun even though it was said she was under stricked watch since she left the island so when the hell did she have time to learn that because it sure as hell wasnt at the institute as they went to like 3 classes) takes on a Mafia Boss's house with no injuries WTAF..
I don't know if I will purchase the rest of this series as it was just too bizarre reminder me of a fan fiction with immature writing who wanted it to end so left out plot.
Shame as the concept was interesting just fell so flat.
Also incase your thinking well there is smut and I love that, it's not exciting smut it's the same low level smut every time.
I'm so confused right now with this book.
It was almost like there was a book or just whole chapters missing.
It started strong but then just went weird.. there was just no Romantic build for Anna and Fin it was straight into smut, then she gets poisoned he takes care of her but the whole time he is just thinking about sex, literally the next day she gets attacked by her rooms mates abusive BF so she moves in with Fin and even though she would have a major concussion and body bruised nope let's have sex WTF.. then we are at the main part of WTH is even the point of this story and what do you know its save your dad or have sex with him just in the next room.
Then Time jump of "months" is that 2 months, 5 months.. next minute Anna's ex roomate Kat has a baby and is loved up with Lazarus... ok was she pregannt on the island as that is the only way and she was in a abusive sex, drug and drinking filled relationship there so...
oh and lets not mention some random subplot that makes no sense but explains why Fin and Laz are now friends 😳.
We have also given up entirely on finding out who the hell killed Fins mum... just poof forgotten over it.. and then it basically just ends with the most unclimatic end I have ever seen...
3 guys 1 girl (who out of no where can handle a gun even though it was said she was under stricked watch since she left the island so when the hell did she have time to learn that because it sure as hell wasnt at the institute as they went to like 3 classes) takes on a Mafia Boss's house with no injuries WTAF..
I don't know if I will purchase the rest of this series as it was just too bizarre reminder me of a fan fiction with immature writing who wanted it to end so left out plot.
Shame as the concept was interesting just fell so flat.
Also incase your thinking well there is smut and I love that, it's not exciting smut it's the same low level smut every time.
February 26, 2023
I liked the idea of the plot however I only kept reading to find out the reason/ person of the cause of everything.
I didn’t care for Anna the FMC. I was more interested in her roommate Kat. Fin the MC POV was much better.
Dual POV. Mafia light.
I didn’t care for Anna the FMC. I was more interested in her roommate Kat. Fin the MC POV was much better.
Dual POV. Mafia light.
August 31, 2022
This is part of the Institute series each book can be read as a standalone but it connects via characters from the previous book, let me say this I read the insert prior to accepting to read it and I never intended on reading it the moment I hit download I read the prologue and let just say I finished it with a couple of hours couldn’t put it down and when I did found myself wondering what was going to happen next so buckle up this is a wild ride, dangerous men, alpha personified, possessive, oh, so gorgeous, brooding all the makings of a deliciously story that can be read in an hour or so 😊. There will be suspense, betrayal, arranged marriage, death, darkness, secrets reveled, violence, hope, forgiveness, and maybe love (to be expected in the mafia world). By the time you’ve figured out who is who and what is what, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter!
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
Anna intelligent has an eye for numbers just like her father an accountant who only wanted to make her life better since her mom passed away never realizing the job, he took laundering money for the mafia would land him and her into so much trouble working for the S.O.B. mob boss who felt and treated like they were property, his property to treat anyway he wanted. So, her father made a massive mode hiding all his money away making a few demands of his own trying to protect her by insisting on her going to The Institute for only mafia children where she will be protected until he can get it all sorted out. Finley sexy as all get out son of the S.O.B. boss he is just as ruthless as his father the difference is he still has a heart, that heart belonged to the daughter of the launder and they connection they feel is undeniably strong so when her father hides their money his father agrees to send her to the school with the other mafia children but also demands he follow her to get their money back. Finley knew love from his mom but when he came home to her murder something in his broke, with a father pushing with demands after demands, talks down to him, treats worse than some of his own men yet the love he feels for his father keeps him following the demands until the love was replaced by his obsession with Anna. While in school she meets lifelong friends and she learns what Finley is made of also, learns that the his love for will have him doing what needs to be done to protect her, keeping her safe even from his own father, all while trying to gain her trust to tell him where her father is hiding and things get out but he finds her father bring her to the island where things go from bad to worse landing her in right back in his father’s hands where her father was trying to prevent but oh boy the up and down adventures these two go on, the true friends they make along the way but will they live with his father foot on her neck looking at her like she is property, treating as such, angering his son in the press, when they decide to take their own destiny into their hands will his father come after them, will she see her father again, and will they survive coming out on top to find their own happiness?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
Anna intelligent has an eye for numbers just like her father an accountant who only wanted to make her life better since her mom passed away never realizing the job, he took laundering money for the mafia would land him and her into so much trouble working for the S.O.B. mob boss who felt and treated like they were property, his property to treat anyway he wanted. So, her father made a massive mode hiding all his money away making a few demands of his own trying to protect her by insisting on her going to The Institute for only mafia children where she will be protected until he can get it all sorted out. Finley sexy as all get out son of the S.O.B. boss he is just as ruthless as his father the difference is he still has a heart, that heart belonged to the daughter of the launder and they connection they feel is undeniably strong so when her father hides their money his father agrees to send her to the school with the other mafia children but also demands he follow her to get their money back. Finley knew love from his mom but when he came home to her murder something in his broke, with a father pushing with demands after demands, talks down to him, treats worse than some of his own men yet the love he feels for his father keeps him following the demands until the love was replaced by his obsession with Anna. While in school she meets lifelong friends and she learns what Finley is made of also, learns that the his love for will have him doing what needs to be done to protect her, keeping her safe even from his own father, all while trying to gain her trust to tell him where her father is hiding and things get out but he finds her father bring her to the island where things go from bad to worse landing her in right back in his father’s hands where her father was trying to prevent but oh boy the up and down adventures these two go on, the true friends they make along the way but will they live with his father foot on her neck looking at her like she is property, treating as such, angering his son in the press, when they decide to take their own destiny into their hands will his father come after them, will she see her father again, and will they survive coming out on top to find their own happiness?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2022
4.5⭐️
“𝘏𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘭𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨.”
Only a few chapters in & I could tell I was gonna be obsessed with Finley.
Finley is stuck between doing what his father wants him to do & what he wants. And what he wants is Anna.
Anna just wants to be free of the kind of life Finley is a part of & wants to protect her dad.. but she also wants Finley.
These two felt like forbidden fruit. & the way Finley was just always there watching her? Literally couldn’t get enough.
And that ending? I was like wtf just happened. I definitely felt some betrayal but I trust that Atlas will set it right 😩
I didn’t read past part two because I didn’t wanna spoil the rest of the series (which is super hard bc I love spoilers!!) I’m super excited for Kats story!!
“𝘏𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯. 𝘓𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵. 𝘏𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵. 𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱…𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘺.”
“𝘏𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘭𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨.”
Only a few chapters in & I could tell I was gonna be obsessed with Finley.
Finley is stuck between doing what his father wants him to do & what he wants. And what he wants is Anna.
Anna just wants to be free of the kind of life Finley is a part of & wants to protect her dad.. but she also wants Finley.
These two felt like forbidden fruit. & the way Finley was just always there watching her? Literally couldn’t get enough.
And that ending? I was like wtf just happened. I definitely felt some betrayal but I trust that Atlas will set it right 😩
I didn’t read past part two because I didn’t wanna spoil the rest of the series (which is super hard bc I love spoilers!!) I’m super excited for Kats story!!
“𝘏𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯. 𝘓𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵. 𝘏𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵. 𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱…𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘺.”
April 2, 2023
Mannnnn....this is the typa book where your just laying down and reading but there's a scene where u suddenly sit up and be like ' what da- just happened'. The story line is unique. I liked that. It was a bit hard to get invested in the start but sheeesshhh. The part 2 was soo much more interesting! I didnt even notice when I turned page after page to know what happens next. There arent many mafia books of whom I continue reading the wholeeee series aside from 3-4 even tho I liked the first book. The character building improved throughout the book and I might read the rest of the parts. A 3.75⭐ for me.
August 9, 2023
3,5 stars
At the beginning of the book I found myself tilting my head in confusion. There were some scenes that I couldn't understand the first few chapters of the book because it didn't flow as well as the usual books that I read. The H was kinda 'weak' because I was used to alpha males that were in control of everything and almost everyone bow down to them and they weren't scared of anyone but in this case I get it. Although I wasn't sure how old he was but since the heroine, Anna, was 20 and she said he looked around her age only several years older than her, I assumed he was around 24-26 maybe? And since his father was still ruling the family empire and he was quite young, it made sense.
The plot was okay. The execution was confusing because it almost felt all over the place for me. The ending was a 'huh' moment for me as well because it was so... bland lol. I expected more I guess. This one was a long book for sure, longer than the usual book that I read.
No epilogue with at least the wedding or even a baby or two. Sad. But what did I expect from reading a series with different MCs in each books? I should've seen it coming.
Oh and the mystery guy/girl that had a hand in killing Fin's mom wasn't revealed yet too so I counted it as a cliffhanger but I don't really care about that tbh.
nts: Not gonna read the next book bcs the MFC was r*ped by the dad's friend and she was pregnant with his child and in this book she hinted she got r*ped by multiple guys so a no for me. I know I'd focus more on my rage and disgust towards the vile r*pist than on the story or even the MCs. I tried reading a book like that but couldn't get myself to finsih it. I despise r*pist from the very core of my beings. Hope all of them rot in jail, getting assaulted everyday before dying a very painful death and then burn in hell for all eternity. (I got riled up even when I'm not reading the book).
At the beginning of the book I found myself tilting my head in confusion. There were some scenes that I couldn't understand the first few chapters of the book because it didn't flow as well as the usual books that I read. The H was kinda 'weak' because I was used to alpha males that were in control of everything and almost everyone bow down to them and they weren't scared of anyone but in this case I get it. Although I wasn't sure how old he was but since the heroine, Anna, was 20 and she said he looked around her age only several years older than her, I assumed he was around 24-26 maybe? And since his father was still ruling the family empire and he was quite young, it made sense.
The plot was okay. The execution was confusing because it almost felt all over the place for me. The ending was a 'huh' moment for me as well because it was so... bland lol. I expected more I guess. This one was a long book for sure, longer than the usual book that I read.
No epilogue with at least the wedding or even a baby or two. Sad. But what did I expect from reading a series with different MCs in each books? I should've seen it coming.
Oh and the mystery guy/girl that had a hand in killing Fin's mom wasn't revealed yet too so I counted it as a cliffhanger but I don't really care about that tbh.
nts: Not gonna read the next book bcs the MFC was r*ped by the dad's friend and she was pregnant with his child and in this book she hinted she got r*ped by multiple guys so a no for me. I know I'd focus more on my rage and disgust towards the vile r*pist than on the story or even the MCs. I tried reading a book like that but couldn't get myself to finsih it. I despise r*pist from the very core of my beings. Hope all of them rot in jail, getting assaulted everyday before dying a very painful death and then burn in hell for all eternity. (I got riled up even when I'm not reading the book).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2022
Ruthless Hunters is a stand alone in the Institute series. It is also in the same world as the blood ties trilogy by A.K ROSE.
I went into this book knowing I would be absorbed into whatever this author wrote and I was. The smut was tension filled and explosive as this was a slow burn but you're so consumed in this world it almost was an after thought for me.
This is Anna and finnely story.
Anna is the daughter of an accountant who is a wizard with numbers. He starts working for the Salvatores in attempts to give Anna more in life. Anna who is highly gifted with numbers as well starts snooping and discovers that her dad is laundering money for a head in yhe mafia DOMINIC. The man is cold and scary and running her father ragged so she begins to help her father. When things begin to get to close to home the two set up an exit strategy. One that ultimately will only put their lives in more danger. The mafia boss is cold and only sees the two as his property so escaping him won't come easy. Therefore, they move the boss's money and begin to make safety demands
Finley Salvatore is the first born and only son to Dominic. His first meeting with Anna was colorful to say the least. He is instantly drawn to her and for two years they communicate and have a sort of friendship and only Anna has ever seen the softness in him. Finley is often called cold and cruel by the others in the mafia world. He is just a machine crafted by his father. His father has set him on Anna and her father when the two start to make safety demands. He is to follow report and find his money.
What happens when lines are crossed and betrayal is everywhere? Will Anna get out or will she be consumed by her matching obsession with Finley. Will Finley be able to separate his duty to his dad and his feeling for Anna?
I went into this book knowing I would be absorbed into whatever this author wrote and I was. The smut was tension filled and explosive as this was a slow burn but you're so consumed in this world it almost was an after thought for me.
This is Anna and finnely story.
Anna is the daughter of an accountant who is a wizard with numbers. He starts working for the Salvatores in attempts to give Anna more in life. Anna who is highly gifted with numbers as well starts snooping and discovers that her dad is laundering money for a head in yhe mafia DOMINIC. The man is cold and scary and running her father ragged so she begins to help her father. When things begin to get to close to home the two set up an exit strategy. One that ultimately will only put their lives in more danger. The mafia boss is cold and only sees the two as his property so escaping him won't come easy. Therefore, they move the boss's money and begin to make safety demands
Finley Salvatore is the first born and only son to Dominic. His first meeting with Anna was colorful to say the least. He is instantly drawn to her and for two years they communicate and have a sort of friendship and only Anna has ever seen the softness in him. Finley is often called cold and cruel by the others in the mafia world. He is just a machine crafted by his father. His father has set him on Anna and her father when the two start to make safety demands. He is to follow report and find his money.
What happens when lines are crossed and betrayal is everywhere? Will Anna get out or will she be consumed by her matching obsession with Finley. Will Finley be able to separate his duty to his dad and his feeling for Anna?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice/Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Relationship: FM
Tropes/Triggers: SA, drugging for SA, DV (not from MCs); CNC, mention of suicide attempt by a character not in the book
Series: Ruthless Hunter - The Institute #1
Synopsis
FMC Anna and her father launder money using cryptocurrency for one of the most powerful Mafia families. Her father has second thoughts about working with the family and convinces her to pretend to be interested in being more involved with the Family, while they seek a way out. So she is sent to The Institute, an island where the heirs to Mafia families around the world are trained in the business.
MMC Finley is the first son and heir to the Mafia throne. His interest is piqued the moment he sets eyes on Anna. They become friends until a family tragedy strikes Finley, leaving him cold, like his father, Dominic. Finley is ordered by his father to attend The Institute to find out what Anna and her father are up to. Finley falls for Anna and gets caught between loyalty for his father/Family and his love for Anna.
Review
Anna and Finley are a slow burn. There are spicy scenes with a thick plot. He is such a complicated character and I love that he gets vulnerable. Lots of character development from him.
I read all 9 Blood Ties books before beginning this book and there don’t seem to be spoilers so far but it provides backstory, since Anna and Finley are mentioned in Blood Ties.
AK Rose is an amazing writer. I was hooked from the beginning and I thought I had the secrets figured out but I completely didn’t. There are so many twists and turns, like in Blood Ties. I cannot recommend these books enough!
Spice/Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Relationship: FM
Tropes/Triggers: SA, drugging for SA, DV (not from MCs); CNC, mention of suicide attempt by a character not in the book
Series: Ruthless Hunter - The Institute #1
Synopsis
FMC Anna and her father launder money using cryptocurrency for one of the most powerful Mafia families. Her father has second thoughts about working with the family and convinces her to pretend to be interested in being more involved with the Family, while they seek a way out. So she is sent to The Institute, an island where the heirs to Mafia families around the world are trained in the business.
MMC Finley is the first son and heir to the Mafia throne. His interest is piqued the moment he sets eyes on Anna. They become friends until a family tragedy strikes Finley, leaving him cold, like his father, Dominic. Finley is ordered by his father to attend The Institute to find out what Anna and her father are up to. Finley falls for Anna and gets caught between loyalty for his father/Family and his love for Anna.
Review
Anna and Finley are a slow burn. There are spicy scenes with a thick plot. He is such a complicated character and I love that he gets vulnerable. Lots of character development from him.
I read all 9 Blood Ties books before beginning this book and there don’t seem to be spoilers so far but it provides backstory, since Anna and Finley are mentioned in Blood Ties.
AK Rose is an amazing writer. I was hooked from the beginning and I thought I had the secrets figured out but I completely didn’t. There are so many twists and turns, like in Blood Ties. I cannot recommend these books enough!
September 9, 2022
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG! Wow what an absolute blast of a Mafia story. Atlas Rose has done an exhilarating job with this book taking us on a journey into the world of the of the Mafia. The Institute Cosa Nostra is the school for the next generation of the future Mafia leaders and it's a neutral place for all Mafia families to learn. Finley Salvatore is the next in line to take over when his father passes or retires and Finley cannot wait for that to happen his father is mean and just thinks only of himself. Anna is very good with numbers, when her father come home he told her his predicament that he launder the money for his boss. Anna told him another way of doing things to clean the money. Finley's father had her taking over for her father but he is mean and ruthless. Anna's father wants her to learn at the Institute they have classes for her to learn more on laundering money. There is so much going on at the Institute people missing, people dead, enemies, shootings, stabbings, rape, drugging, violence, pain, fear, trauma, blood, secrets, lies, protection, trust, healing, courage, strength, lust, passion, sexual body contact, there is so much action, suspense and many more. This book has triggers and they needed to be there to work into the story and that's exactly what it done for me, I loved reading book one and certainly can't wait for book two to come out.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG! Wow what an absolute blast of a Mafia story. Atlas Rose has done an exhilarating job with this book taking us on a journey into the world of the of the Mafia. The Institute Cosa Nostra is the school for the next generation of the future Mafia leaders and it's a neutral place for all Mafia families to learn. Finley Salvatore is the next in line to take over when his father passes or retires and Finley cannot wait for that to happen his father is mean and just thinks only of himself. Anna is very good with numbers, when her father come home he told her his predicament that he launder the money for his boss. Anna told him another way of doing things to clean the money. Finley's father had her taking over for her father but he is mean and ruthless. Anna's father wants her to learn at the Institute they have classes for her to learn more on laundering money. There is so much going on at the Institute people missing, people dead, enemies, shootings, stabbings, rape, drugging, violence, pain, fear, trauma, blood, secrets, lies, protection, trust, healing, courage, strength, lust, passion, sexual body contact, there is so much action, suspense and many more. This book has triggers and they needed to be there to work into the story and that's exactly what it done for me, I loved reading book one and certainly can't wait for book two to come out.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
September 14, 2022Anna and her dad have been laundering money for the Salvatore mafia family. Now everything has gone wrong. They are in over their heads and looking for a way out. The Salvatore's want their $100 million dollars back but Anna and her dad can't get it back. In an effort to keep Anna safe her dad sends her to the island, The Cosa Nostra Institute. The Institute is where the mafia families send their kids to learn, train, and make alliances. There is 1 person on the island who is supposed to be able to help Anna and her dad get away from the mafia but she doesn't know who it is. When Anna gets to the Institute she is surprised to see Finley Salvatore, the mob boss' son. Anna and Finley have always been attracted to one another. Finley was sent to the Institute to keep a eye or spy on Anna for his father. Someone on the island is targeting people including Anna. The more time Finley spends with Anna, he has a soft spot for Anna, only her. Finley can't afford to have feelings for Anna. Everything on the island is filled with secrets, lies, and plays for power. If Finley and Anna want to be together they will both have to betray their own father's. Finley told Anna she would always be his and he would never let her go. How far will he go to protect her? There is also secondary drama involving Anna's roomate, Kat. Great first book to the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2023
Potential.
So much potential to be a 4 or 5 star because come on, The Institute sounds so cool and truly, the premise of this is great. Given that I'm a huge fan of series like St. Monarch's, this was right up my alley. We get introduced to a lot of interesting characters which made me curious of reading their story as well. There's a lot going on so there weren't any dull moments and I enjoyed the story for the most part, but it felt like things were happening without enough details. I am not one to be overly critical about grammar and nitpick of editing but gooooood lord, even a first pass read by another set of eyes would have helped. There were missing words two sentences in a row. How does that happen? I think with a little more information and better editing, I would have easily given this a 4.
What made me rage:
I was at 83% and apparently things come to an abrupt end with a WARNING that the following events contain spoilers for the REST OF THE SERIES. Wait.. so if I want to get a wrap up of Anna and Finley and continue, I'll spoil things for the next (potentially) four? five books? What?
If I choose to read a book out of order (which I've done) and spoil things from earlier books, I get it. That's on me. But this, this is the first time I've encountered such a warning and was tempted to drop a star for that alone, but alas, I won't. I've already grabbed Kat and Lazarus's story knowing full well I may encounter another such warning.
So much potential to be a 4 or 5 star because come on, The Institute sounds so cool and truly, the premise of this is great. Given that I'm a huge fan of series like St. Monarch's, this was right up my alley. We get introduced to a lot of interesting characters which made me curious of reading their story as well. There's a lot going on so there weren't any dull moments and I enjoyed the story for the most part, but it felt like things were happening without enough details. I am not one to be overly critical about grammar and nitpick of editing but gooooood lord, even a first pass read by another set of eyes would have helped. There were missing words two sentences in a row. How does that happen? I think with a little more information and better editing, I would have easily given this a 4.
What made me rage:
I was at 83% and apparently things come to an abrupt end with a WARNING that the following events contain spoilers for the REST OF THE SERIES. Wait.. so if I want to get a wrap up of Anna and Finley and continue, I'll spoil things for the next (potentially) four? five books? What?
If I choose to read a book out of order (which I've done) and spoil things from earlier books, I get it. That's on me. But this, this is the first time I've encountered such a warning and was tempted to drop a star for that alone, but alas, I won't. I've already grabbed Kat and Lazarus's story knowing full well I may encounter another such warning.
September 12, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Another mafia romance? Written by Atlas Rose? Sign me up! Those were my thoughts on hearing about this book. I got an eARC from Atlas and I started it immediately.
Now, it was little bit of a slog for the first probably 50% of this book. I struggled to really connect and get through this as it seemed not a lot was happening; eventually I was able to enjoy it and I liked Fin and Anna, they had such chemistry that really jumped off the page.
For the most part this was an enjoyable (if a bit sluggish) read, it has mafia, violence, intrigue, sex, and a possessive/ obsessive alpha-hole who we love.
Recommended for fans of atlas and fans of dark mafia romances. Looking forward to reading more.
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
P.S - there is a part 2 in this, but the author note said it was written months later and contains spoilers for the rest of series, so I’ve not gone any further. I stopped at the final chapter of part 1 and so I will await reading this part until more clarification can be made.
🌶🌶🌶
Another mafia romance? Written by Atlas Rose? Sign me up! Those were my thoughts on hearing about this book. I got an eARC from Atlas and I started it immediately.
Now, it was little bit of a slog for the first probably 50% of this book. I struggled to really connect and get through this as it seemed not a lot was happening; eventually I was able to enjoy it and I liked Fin and Anna, they had such chemistry that really jumped off the page.
For the most part this was an enjoyable (if a bit sluggish) read, it has mafia, violence, intrigue, sex, and a possessive/ obsessive alpha-hole who we love.
Recommended for fans of atlas and fans of dark mafia romances. Looking forward to reading more.
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
P.S - there is a part 2 in this, but the author note said it was written months later and contains spoilers for the rest of series, so I’ve not gone any further. I stopped at the final chapter of part 1 and so I will await reading this part until more clarification can be made.
September 14, 2022
🖤ARC REVIEW🖤
OH MY GOD. THAT WAS INCREDIBLE!!!!!
I was pulled in from the get go and I didn’t want to put it down. Istg my heart was in my throat for this entire story.
Even now my heart is pounding out of my chest. There was so many twisted lies, I didn’t know what was real and what was fake!! Absolutely mind boggling!!!
My head is literally spinning. It had so many crazy twists and turns, it was thrilling and action packed!
I bloody loved it!! My jaw was on the floor, I mean that Institution is insane, the madness that happens there is just shocking.
Fin and Anna are absolutely crazy together, I mean holy smokes, their sexual tension and chemistry is off the charts! It’s toxic, it’s filled with lies, it’s chaos, it’s crazy mind blowing love! The things that Fin would do to protect Anna was crazy!!! He would ruin anyone and everything! Oh I love a crazy possessive alpha male!!
This story was absolutely everything, that ending has me all kinds of messed up!! I mean holy flipping heck that was wild!! I cannot wait for book 2!!!!
OH MY GOD. THAT WAS INCREDIBLE!!!!!
I was pulled in from the get go and I didn’t want to put it down. Istg my heart was in my throat for this entire story.
Even now my heart is pounding out of my chest. There was so many twisted lies, I didn’t know what was real and what was fake!! Absolutely mind boggling!!!
My head is literally spinning. It had so many crazy twists and turns, it was thrilling and action packed!
I bloody loved it!! My jaw was on the floor, I mean that Institution is insane, the madness that happens there is just shocking.
Fin and Anna are absolutely crazy together, I mean holy smokes, their sexual tension and chemistry is off the charts! It’s toxic, it’s filled with lies, it’s chaos, it’s crazy mind blowing love! The things that Fin would do to protect Anna was crazy!!! He would ruin anyone and everything! Oh I love a crazy possessive alpha male!!
This story was absolutely everything, that ending has me all kinds of messed up!! I mean holy flipping heck that was wild!! I cannot wait for book 2!!!!
October 30, 2022
steamy intrigue and plotting
Finley and Annalise are a force to be reckoned with. It takes a good while and lots of miscommunication (or lack there of) for them to really hit the ground running, but when they do, it’s a hurricane. Finley loves and devours Anna with the force of a tidal wave, and Anna is only too happy to dive in and ride the waves to her ruin.
The story focuses mainly on Anna attempting to hide her impending betrayal from Fin, and Fin ping ponging between familial loyalty and claiming what is his. Meanwhile, there are many subplots of betrayal and lies woven in between, which does not bog down the overall plot, but rather helps to keep things moving.
There is quite a bit of internal dialogue and italicized thoughts that run counter to spoken dialogue, perhaps to emphasize that nobody can be trusted and everyone is lying/putting on a mask. It is a very cutthroat world that Anna and Fin navigate, but can they trust themselves and each other to tread the waters and swim to safety?
Finley and Annalise are a force to be reckoned with. It takes a good while and lots of miscommunication (or lack there of) for them to really hit the ground running, but when they do, it’s a hurricane. Finley loves and devours Anna with the force of a tidal wave, and Anna is only too happy to dive in and ride the waves to her ruin.
The story focuses mainly on Anna attempting to hide her impending betrayal from Fin, and Fin ping ponging between familial loyalty and claiming what is his. Meanwhile, there are many subplots of betrayal and lies woven in between, which does not bog down the overall plot, but rather helps to keep things moving.
There is quite a bit of internal dialogue and italicized thoughts that run counter to spoken dialogue, perhaps to emphasize that nobody can be trusted and everyone is lying/putting on a mask. It is a very cutthroat world that Anna and Fin navigate, but can they trust themselves and each other to tread the waters and swim to safety?
September 9, 2022
Ruthless Hunter takes place in the same world as the Blood Ties series, so you may recognize some names if you've read that series prior. I wouldn't say it's required though (but you definitely should because it's great).
This new series brings us Anna and Finley, who are attending an elite institute for the younger generation of the Mafia. Anna and her father work for Finley's father and need to return a lot of money to him. Finley is forced to face whether he will stay loyal to his father or choose to follow his feelings for Anna and protect her.
I absolutely love the roller-coaster of emotions this book took me on. Anna and Fins back and forth provided so much angst. I highlighted soooo much in this book, it's unreal. The spice was off the charts! I honestly didn't know how it was going to end, but I was pleasantly surprised by how it worked out!!
And I need a bestie like Kat ASAP. I love her so much!!!
This new series brings us Anna and Finley, who are attending an elite institute for the younger generation of the Mafia. Anna and her father work for Finley's father and need to return a lot of money to him. Finley is forced to face whether he will stay loyal to his father or choose to follow his feelings for Anna and protect her.
I absolutely love the roller-coaster of emotions this book took me on. Anna and Fins back and forth provided so much angst. I highlighted soooo much in this book, it's unreal. The spice was off the charts! I honestly didn't know how it was going to end, but I was pleasantly surprised by how it worked out!!
And I need a bestie like Kat ASAP. I love her so much!!!
October 25, 2022
So whilst this was a really great book I have a few serious concerns.
It was such a difficult read, like the sentences just end and you don't really know what u just read. It's intense and really full of the great mafia drama. In fact it's literally a flipping awesome plot. But heck,
There's like a disconnect in the verbiage.
You had to read on to get wht the point was. There many conflicting and contradicting descriptions of emotions especially.
Then at the last chapter there are a whole lot of spoilers that basically say, here you go, don't bother reading book 2.
I was quite annoyed with Ms Rose. Like she totally messed up book 2 for me.
I'm gonna read it simple because I wanna know more about Kats story, not actually about where they end up. Plus the author posts a note before the chapter to say there will be spoilers. I mean what did she want us to do? Stop there after we're 95% in, read book 2 then read the last chapter?
Like how???
It was such a difficult read, like the sentences just end and you don't really know what u just read. It's intense and really full of the great mafia drama. In fact it's literally a flipping awesome plot. But heck,
There's like a disconnect in the verbiage.
You had to read on to get wht the point was. There many conflicting and contradicting descriptions of emotions especially.
Then at the last chapter there are a whole lot of spoilers that basically say, here you go, don't bother reading book 2.
I was quite annoyed with Ms Rose. Like she totally messed up book 2 for me.
I'm gonna read it simple because I wanna know more about Kats story, not actually about where they end up. Plus the author posts a note before the chapter to say there will be spoilers. I mean what did she want us to do? Stop there after we're 95% in, read book 2 then read the last chapter?
Like how???
May 4, 2023
This was a tough read for me 😐
I’m kinda bummed because I’ve really enjoyed other books by this author. But this one was really confusing to follow along with. There was a lot of different characters and dynamics btwn the mafia families that, to me, weren’t clearly outlined. It also jumped around a lot as far as the reason for all the drama.
I did enjoy the enemies to lovers vibes between Anna & Fin but it was almost to quick of a change from I hate you to now I love you, and then there’s a crazy time jump towards the end which left me more confused.
It was just alot to keep track of and I felt like I needed to create a timeline so I could keep my brain steady 🥴
The suspense and secrets kept me intrigued so I might read the next book to see if that clears things up cuz I do love A.K Rose.
I’m kinda bummed because I’ve really enjoyed other books by this author. But this one was really confusing to follow along with. There was a lot of different characters and dynamics btwn the mafia families that, to me, weren’t clearly outlined. It also jumped around a lot as far as the reason for all the drama.
I did enjoy the enemies to lovers vibes between Anna & Fin but it was almost to quick of a change from I hate you to now I love you, and then there’s a crazy time jump towards the end which left me more confused.
It was just alot to keep track of and I felt like I needed to create a timeline so I could keep my brain steady 🥴
The suspense and secrets kept me intrigued so I might read the next book to see if that clears things up cuz I do love A.K Rose.
September 13, 2022
A different take on the usual Mafia stories. This looks at where it all begins...Mafia School!
This is a well-paced and action-packed story. Fin is the son of a lethal mafia boss, Anna is the daughter of his money launderer, although she herself is a money wiz herself. Anna gets herself sent to the Institute, and Fin follows. Danger, murder, intrigue, steamy sex....this has it all and will keep you guessing right to the end! Fin has a darker side and is controlling, but Anna is no pushover! It will be interesting reading more of this series. We’ve been introduced to a lot of characters, and I can guarantee a number of their stories will be explosive!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a well-paced and action-packed story. Fin is the son of a lethal mafia boss, Anna is the daughter of his money launderer, although she herself is a money wiz herself. Anna gets herself sent to the Institute, and Fin follows. Danger, murder, intrigue, steamy sex....this has it all and will keep you guessing right to the end! Fin has a darker side and is controlling, but Anna is no pushover! It will be interesting reading more of this series. We’ve been introduced to a lot of characters, and I can guarantee a number of their stories will be explosive!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 9, 2022
I could not put this down! This just goes to show how much money turns people into evil, manipulating, and twisted creatures. Anna didn’t have any hope from the beginning. She was dragged into the destructive world of the Mafia by her father and help there by her love for Fin. It was a choice when shit went to hell. Save her fathers life or be with the love of her life. Either way she lost someone… Fin grew up in the Mafia lifestyle as the Heir of Dominic Salvatore. He was forced to do as his demented father asked… no matter the price. He fell in love with Anna and couldn’t stand by and watch her be hurt. He did everything he felt he could to save her life but was it a life worth living?
December 6, 2022
What a way to start a series. Anna and Finley are attending Cosa Nostra Institute, a school for the mafia. They are faced with danger, mystery, secrets, and drama as they are learning more about the underworld. Anna and Finley try to fight their connection but in the end their chemistry couldn't be denied. Finley was super protective of Anna while he was trying to find his own way in this dangerous world. I really liked how they came together in the end. This story is intense, hot, suspenseful, and intriguing. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 10, 2022
When the hero will stop at nothing to keep his heroine safe, no matter the cost. When the hero is absolutely feral in his possessiveness. 🥵🥵
Secrets lurk everywhere and no one is exactly as they seem. Who do you trust? Who gains your loyalty? Even 70% into this, I was unsure if I was gonna toss my hat into the right ring, or if I was being misled along with everyone else.
I still don’t know if I made the right decisions, but I had a great time while I was along for the ride.
I’m 1000% ready for the next part in this series, and I don’t have the slightest clue what I’ll do in the meantime.
Secrets lurk everywhere and no one is exactly as they seem. Who do you trust? Who gains your loyalty? Even 70% into this, I was unsure if I was gonna toss my hat into the right ring, or if I was being misled along with everyone else.
I still don’t know if I made the right decisions, but I had a great time while I was along for the ride.
I’m 1000% ready for the next part in this series, and I don’t have the slightest clue what I’ll do in the meantime.
September 14, 2022
I hadn’t realised I already had this book under its old name and I never got around to reading it so I’m glad it was renamed or I would have missed a fab book. Anna was never noticed by Fin until her and her Dad were accused of stealing their money then Fin was tasked to watch her .
What they both don’t realise is things are going on around them and someone they don’t expect is pulling all the strings. Loved the chemistry between Fin and Anna and loved Kat and can’t wait to hear more of her story.
What they both don’t realise is things are going on around them and someone they don’t expect is pulling all the strings. Loved the chemistry between Fin and Anna and loved Kat and can’t wait to hear more of her story.
September 16, 2022
Finley is next in line to a powerful Mafia family and Anna is the daughter of the man who launders the Mafia money. These two are instantly attracted to each other but there's a problem with the money count and Finley wants it corrected. This is an intense read packed with suspense, Mafia drama, danger, betrayals, passion, and twists that pulled me into the story. This is book one of The Institute Series and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
October 1, 2022
★ “…stepping into a snake pit…when you were the mouse.” ★
—>>> “Deception, pride, torture. What do those things have in common?” “Sounds like a regular f#@king Saturday night to me,” someone called out. Classes roll out at Cosa Nostra, and the mafia heirs are all present, including the numbers-talented daughter of a man who had stolen millions from one of them. Hang on tight for a story which continues through the POVs of Finley and Anna as they navigate through the shark-infested halls of this institute, where blood and chases reign, regardless of the Code.
—>>> “Deception, pride, torture. What do those things have in common?” “Sounds like a regular f#@king Saturday night to me,” someone called out. Classes roll out at Cosa Nostra, and the mafia heirs are all present, including the numbers-talented daughter of a man who had stolen millions from one of them. Hang on tight for a story which continues through the POVs of Finley and Anna as they navigate through the shark-infested halls of this institute, where blood and chases reign, regardless of the Code.
December 7, 2022
Twisted and fantastic!
There's so many twists and turns in this book! It's why I read these Authors books. Not a quick read at all but a book you won't want to put down. These anti heroes are very dark and twisted but have a side to them that makes me see their humanity. The women are strong and have a loyalty to each other that forms in this dark and violent institute. The sex is hot and very steamy! Also the ending was not what I ever thought was going to happen! Its another great book so if you like intense books then this is for you!
There's so many twists and turns in this book! It's why I read these Authors books. Not a quick read at all but a book you won't want to put down. These anti heroes are very dark and twisted but have a side to them that makes me see their humanity. The women are strong and have a loyalty to each other that forms in this dark and violent institute. The sex is hot and very steamy! Also the ending was not what I ever thought was going to happen! Its another great book so if you like intense books then this is for you!
September 10, 2022
When Anna stumbles upon her father work as a money lauder for the Salvatore crime family, her father sees how good she is with numbers and gets her sent to the island where all the heirs to the criminal world are sent. Its there Anna meets Finley who becomes instantly obsessed with her. and this is how their story unfolds. well written desires, action, steamy scenes and more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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