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Locked
Some choices you make in life, some are made for you. Sometimes life is locked.
As the heavy steel doors slid back, I walked out to freedom for the first time in ten years. I’d gone into prison as a teenager and was leaving an adult who didn’t know how to live anywhere else. What was more terrifying than being free was moving back in with my mother. She hated me, and I couldn’t understand why.
Weeks later I was lost and confused with no direction in life. It was then I met him. My fairytale ending.
My hope.
My saviour.
He was everything I didn’t deserve. A successful businessman and conscientious lover. Our love was instant and our relationship rapid. And he loved me with all his heart.
After years of working hard on myself, being devoted to learning my craft in his family business, life was looking up. I had promise. Then it all went wrong. Destructive realities came to light and the consequences were life threatening.
Will I ever recover from the secrets?
Trigger warning—contains adult themes including physical violence, miscarriage and alcoholism
Author This book is a steamy contemporary mafia romance and is recommended for readers aged eighteen years and over. It contains themes including violence, miscarriage, and alcoholism. There are open door other women scenes when the main characters are separated.
As the heavy steel doors slid back, I walked out to freedom for the first time in ten years. I’d gone into prison as a teenager and was leaving an adult who didn’t know how to live anywhere else. What was more terrifying than being free was moving back in with my mother. She hated me, and I couldn’t understand why.
Weeks later I was lost and confused with no direction in life. It was then I met him. My fairytale ending.
My hope.
My saviour.
He was everything I didn’t deserve. A successful businessman and conscientious lover. Our love was instant and our relationship rapid. And he loved me with all his heart.
After years of working hard on myself, being devoted to learning my craft in his family business, life was looking up. I had promise. Then it all went wrong. Destructive realities came to light and the consequences were life threatening.
Will I ever recover from the secrets?
Trigger warning—contains adult themes including physical violence, miscarriage and alcoholism
Author This book is a steamy contemporary mafia romance and is recommended for readers aged eighteen years and over. It contains themes including violence, miscarriage, and alcoholism. There are open door other women scenes when the main characters are separated.
- GenresSecond ChanceRomanceDark
Kindle Edition
Published February 4, 2023
26 people are currently reading
635 people want to read
About the author
V.R. Tennent
18 books339 followersVR Tennent emigrated from Scotland to Spain in 2020. She lives in the Spanish campo with her husband, young daughter, and ever-growing animal family.
In January 2022, she decided to put pen to paper and write a book after joining the writer’s group of her favourite author. Five months later she was offered a publishing contract on that very book.
She writes contemporary fiction filled with love, heartbreak, and spice.
In January 2022, she decided to put pen to paper and write a book after joining the writer’s group of her favourite author. Five months later she was offered a publishing contract on that very book.
She writes contemporary fiction filled with love, heartbreak, and spice.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
no-way
February 17, 2023Hell naw!!
Rage read with countless sex scenes with OWs on page. While h is celibate
(Not my spoiler, it is from fb)
Eliza the ex fiancee is pretty much a non entity. Nicki and Joel are married. All she asks of him is honesty and to never lie to her. Fast forward 5ish years. Ciara is the cousin. She is close with Joel and does not like Nikki and makes snide comments about her and doesn't treat her well. She is in love with Joel. Nikki tells Joel she is in love with him but he is oblivious and says they are cousins, Nikkis is seeing things and he excuses the bad behavior by Ciara to Nikki as she has issues and has it rough but he won't explain. Turns out Ciara is not actually his blood related cousin. Nikki is working at his fashion house and moving up quickly. It is discovered she is very talented. Joel and Nikki have a one of a kind, only eyes for each other, can't keep their hands to themselves, once in a lifetime type of love. (which i call BS on as you will see what happens later) Nikki wins a big fashion award for herself and the company and Ciara basically threatens her with retribution. Which Joel is, again, oblivos to, even though he is right there. A bit later, Eliza's father storms Nikki and Joel's house and attacks Nicki for revenge while Joel is there. Turns out Joel's family is not 100% legit and is partly a mafia family. Which Nikki was not aware of. So Nikki gets beat up, while oel watches, and punched in the stomach and she loses her baby. She was 10 weeks pregnant and was going to tell Joel that night. When she wakes in the hospital, Joel has to come clean and Nikki is devastated at the loss and the lies. She doesn't know what to do. Joel has a flip switched and steps fully into his violent mafia boss that he was meant to be instead of the sweet guy, who didn't want that part of the family business. Nikki makes him wait a bit but forgives, as long as he promises no more lies. Oh, and they are actively trying for baby. Months and a few more miscarriages later, Ciara finally takes her revenge and has set Nikki up to look like she has stolen her designs. Well Joel, the once in a lifetime love of her life, does not pass go, does not collect his $200 and heads straight to, but of course Nikki is a deceitful liar. He doesn't even ask her, he comforts Ciara, fires Nikki and tells her to go home and he will see her later. While he stays to comfort Ciara who smiles evilly at Nikki. When he gets home and finally tells her why she is a fired liar. She says he didn't do it. He does not believe her and tells her to admit it and maybe they can save the marriage. Because he loves her so much. She leaves and goes to her BFF. He doesn't follow or call. She goes back to talk and finds him snuggling on the couch with Ciara. He tells her nothing is happening, Ciara doesn't say that. And Nikki does what any woman would do and hugs him, kisses him and says they are over. He didn't believe her and that is worse than cheating. Nikki files for divorce. He gets served, calls her and says I don't want a divorce, then IMMEDIATELY signs the divorce papers. Then he decides, you know since he loved her so much, and didn't want the divorce, he heads on over to his brothel, (yep, his brothel) and swerves his way through the brothel and has a favorite he brothel he hated even before he and Nikki were together. He has fully embraced all the things he hated about the life. Ebony, who looks like his wife, but younger. They have amazing shmex. He uses her exclusively. She tries to kiss him, he says no kissing, then within a minute, not only crosses that line of kissing, invites her as his date for a gala and to spend the weekend. Which they do, and they have a f^ck fest all over every available service in the penthouse. Which is amazing shmex, exciting and thrilling. He is still having his wife protected by his men. Oh did I mention that while he has a girlfriend-ish, Nikki, after a year of grieving him, finally has a date, and he crashes it and tells her no one is allowed to touch her but him. Ever. So he can do stuff and date and swerve around and try to move on and be happy. But that is a no no for her. They wind up, sleeping together once more. He wants more, she says no, she can't be hurt again. He is dating and being photographed all over with Ebony, since he never broke it off in pursuit of his Nikki again. Well surprise, Nikki is pregnant. He breaks it off with Ebony, silly Ebony got to close, and another scene has him getting a lap dance from a redheaded brothel worker. And it is agony not take her right there. You guys, it is soul crushing for him(his thoughts) that he can't grab and squeeze the redheads bum. Soul crushing. You know because he loves Nikki so much, like the once in a lifetime true love that no one else will do.( I just rolled my eyes so much they hurt) She doesn't know if she should tell him since his life is so dangerous. Joel still has enemies. Which, it seems justified when she is kidnapped at 6 months pregnant. beaten and held for days. He rescues her and brings her home for the remainder of her pregnancy. Gives her her own room and keeps away from her. Baby is born, words of love, she gets home from the hospital and bam they are back together. No discussion of his other partners. His swerving his way through the brothel with which was amazing and exciting and soul crushing with the other women. No discussion of his double standards, or safe sex. No discussion of his about face as to who he is now. No discussion of future fidelity. No discussion really of his betrayal and taking Ciara's side over hers. For that he just said. Oops, I sorry. They have an HEA. I was annoyed.
Rage read with countless sex scenes with OWs on page. While h is celibate
(Not my spoiler, it is from fb)
Eliza the ex fiancee is pretty much a non entity. Nicki and Joel are married. All she asks of him is honesty and to never lie to her. Fast forward 5ish years. Ciara is the cousin. She is close with Joel and does not like Nikki and makes snide comments about her and doesn't treat her well. She is in love with Joel. Nikki tells Joel she is in love with him but he is oblivious and says they are cousins, Nikkis is seeing things and he excuses the bad behavior by Ciara to Nikki as she has issues and has it rough but he won't explain. Turns out Ciara is not actually his blood related cousin. Nikki is working at his fashion house and moving up quickly. It is discovered she is very talented. Joel and Nikki have a one of a kind, only eyes for each other, can't keep their hands to themselves, once in a lifetime type of love. (which i call BS on as you will see what happens later) Nikki wins a big fashion award for herself and the company and Ciara basically threatens her with retribution. Which Joel is, again, oblivos to, even though he is right there. A bit later, Eliza's father storms Nikki and Joel's house and attacks Nicki for revenge while Joel is there. Turns out Joel's family is not 100% legit and is partly a mafia family. Which Nikki was not aware of. So Nikki gets beat up, while oel watches, and punched in the stomach and she loses her baby. She was 10 weeks pregnant and was going to tell Joel that night. When she wakes in the hospital, Joel has to come clean and Nikki is devastated at the loss and the lies. She doesn't know what to do. Joel has a flip switched and steps fully into his violent mafia boss that he was meant to be instead of the sweet guy, who didn't want that part of the family business. Nikki makes him wait a bit but forgives, as long as he promises no more lies. Oh, and they are actively trying for baby. Months and a few more miscarriages later, Ciara finally takes her revenge and has set Nikki up to look like she has stolen her designs. Well Joel, the once in a lifetime love of her life, does not pass go, does not collect his $200 and heads straight to, but of course Nikki is a deceitful liar. He doesn't even ask her, he comforts Ciara, fires Nikki and tells her to go home and he will see her later. While he stays to comfort Ciara who smiles evilly at Nikki. When he gets home and finally tells her why she is a fired liar. She says he didn't do it. He does not believe her and tells her to admit it and maybe they can save the marriage. Because he loves her so much. She leaves and goes to her BFF. He doesn't follow or call. She goes back to talk and finds him snuggling on the couch with Ciara. He tells her nothing is happening, Ciara doesn't say that. And Nikki does what any woman would do and hugs him, kisses him and says they are over. He didn't believe her and that is worse than cheating. Nikki files for divorce. He gets served, calls her and says I don't want a divorce, then IMMEDIATELY signs the divorce papers. Then he decides, you know since he loved her so much, and didn't want the divorce, he heads on over to his brothel, (yep, his brothel) and swerves his way through the brothel and has a favorite he brothel he hated even before he and Nikki were together. He has fully embraced all the things he hated about the life. Ebony, who looks like his wife, but younger. They have amazing shmex. He uses her exclusively. She tries to kiss him, he says no kissing, then within a minute, not only crosses that line of kissing, invites her as his date for a gala and to spend the weekend. Which they do, and they have a f^ck fest all over every available service in the penthouse. Which is amazing shmex, exciting and thrilling. He is still having his wife protected by his men. Oh did I mention that while he has a girlfriend-ish, Nikki, after a year of grieving him, finally has a date, and he crashes it and tells her no one is allowed to touch her but him. Ever. So he can do stuff and date and swerve around and try to move on and be happy. But that is a no no for her. They wind up, sleeping together once more. He wants more, she says no, she can't be hurt again. He is dating and being photographed all over with Ebony, since he never broke it off in pursuit of his Nikki again. Well surprise, Nikki is pregnant. He breaks it off with Ebony, silly Ebony got to close, and another scene has him getting a lap dance from a redheaded brothel worker. And it is agony not take her right there. You guys, it is soul crushing for him(his thoughts) that he can't grab and squeeze the redheads bum. Soul crushing. You know because he loves Nikki so much, like the once in a lifetime true love that no one else will do.( I just rolled my eyes so much they hurt) She doesn't know if she should tell him since his life is so dangerous. Joel still has enemies. Which, it seems justified when she is kidnapped at 6 months pregnant. beaten and held for days. He rescues her and brings her home for the remainder of her pregnancy. Gives her her own room and keeps away from her. Baby is born, words of love, she gets home from the hospital and bam they are back together. No discussion of his other partners. His swerving his way through the brothel with which was amazing and exciting and soul crushing with the other women. No discussion of his double standards, or safe sex. No discussion of his about face as to who he is now. No discussion of future fidelity. No discussion really of his betrayal and taking Ciara's side over hers. For that he just said. Oops, I sorry. They have an HEA. I was annoyed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2023
I just don’t want to read about a man who is so in love with his ex wife and wants her back but has constant sex marathons with a prostitute who looks like her. And then starts taking her on dates because he feels “calm” with her. Him saying he’ll always love his wife so it can’t be real doesn’t make that romantic to me. 🤢
So after she becomes clingy, he’s with a bunch of others too and it’s thrilling for him even though he can’t love anyone. They’re divorced, ok…But he can’t even imagine his ex being touched by another man and stops the only date she goes on!! Because him constantly having sex with others was ok but she can’t go on a date?? I hate the double standard!!
So that sort of took the romance out of it for me, and them having a baby together didn’t exactly have me rooting for them. So basically he gives into a divorce, is sad he still loves her, and screws tons of women, and then they get back together. I would’ve much rather seen him fight for her and woo her back during this time apart instead, shown her he’s loyal and did her wrong, and it would’ve been way more satisfying!
So after she becomes clingy, he’s with a bunch of others too and it’s thrilling for him even though he can’t love anyone. They’re divorced, ok…But he can’t even imagine his ex being touched by another man and stops the only date she goes on!! Because him constantly having sex with others was ok but she can’t go on a date?? I hate the double standard!!
So that sort of took the romance out of it for me, and them having a baby together didn’t exactly have me rooting for them. So basically he gives into a divorce, is sad he still loves her, and screws tons of women, and then they get back together. I would’ve much rather seen him fight for her and woo her back during this time apart instead, shown her he’s loyal and did her wrong, and it would’ve been way more satisfying!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2023
WOW! You know those authors who just write like butter?!? V.R Tennent is one of those authors who writes in a way that just takes over - hence why I read this in a day! I have read a handful of her books already and this is by far my favorite! It was unlike any of her other books in the best way - you still get the rollercoaster of emotions [she is the QUEEN of making you feel alll the feels] but this had it ALL, it was deliciously spicy, had suspense, heartache, secrets, mafia bosses, drama and betrayal. I was HOOKED instantly after reading the prologue and did not want to put this book down. She did an amazing job at holding the readers attention at every turn and I loved every single minute of it, I honestly didn't want it to end.
This is the love story of two EXTREMLY different people; Nicky just fresh out of prison and Joel the son of a very powerful and rich family. Their life's collided so unexpectedly and they fell hard and fast. The chemistry was indescribable, and they knew just hours after meeting that what they had and felt was real. Nicky and Joel skipped the dating, among other things that "normal" new relationships have. Within a few month of meeting they were already married and living together. Everything was perfect, Nicky was moving passed her haunted past, working on her new career and Joel was taking over more reasonability's with his families dealing. Until things went south... Joel isn't the man she thought he was... Now they are divorced and things start going bump in the night with other very powerful and dangerous men. Nicky is no longer safe and Joel is doing everything in his power to make things right. Will Joel redeem himself after everything? Will they make things work?!? Guess you need to read this to find out ;)
Highly highly recommend this book!
I have been honored to be on your ARC team and I cannot wait for your next book! Congratulations on yet another AMAZING book!
This is the love story of two EXTREMLY different people; Nicky just fresh out of prison and Joel the son of a very powerful and rich family. Their life's collided so unexpectedly and they fell hard and fast. The chemistry was indescribable, and they knew just hours after meeting that what they had and felt was real. Nicky and Joel skipped the dating, among other things that "normal" new relationships have. Within a few month of meeting they were already married and living together. Everything was perfect, Nicky was moving passed her haunted past, working on her new career and Joel was taking over more reasonability's with his families dealing. Until things went south... Joel isn't the man she thought he was... Now they are divorced and things start going bump in the night with other very powerful and dangerous men. Nicky is no longer safe and Joel is doing everything in his power to make things right. Will Joel redeem himself after everything? Will they make things work?!? Guess you need to read this to find out ;)
Highly highly recommend this book!
I have been honored to be on your ARC team and I cannot wait for your next book! Congratulations on yet another AMAZING book!
January 30, 2023
4.5 stars
I’ve literally just finished Locked by the talented VR Tennent. Wow, what a rollercoaster ride.
This author is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. She has a brilliant knack for combining suspense with passion & heartfelt emotion.
Locked is told in dual point of view (My favourite It's full of grit, heartache, emotion, suspense & secrets. I was gripped from start to finish.
Her characters are flawed but relatable. I find myself being their cheerleader from my sofa !
Nicky is one of my favourite heroines, one impulsive moment has completely changed her life BUT
She’s strong, determined & fierce.
When she meets Joel, they have this instant connection. They both fall hard & fast but trust is broken on both sides, people & circumstances get in their way.
The journey Nicky & Joel had to take to find each other again with an unbreakable love in their hearts still burns strong and bright, is not an easy one. It's fraught with danger and terror, yet it is one of healing, hope and ultimately love.
A modern day, dark fairytale.
I don’t want to give to much away, all I can say is that I honestly can’t recommend Locked enough.
Thank you VR Tennent for my ARC copy. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next❣️
I’ve literally just finished Locked by the talented VR Tennent. Wow, what a rollercoaster ride.
This author is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. She has a brilliant knack for combining suspense with passion & heartfelt emotion.
Locked is told in dual point of view (My favourite It's full of grit, heartache, emotion, suspense & secrets. I was gripped from start to finish.
Her characters are flawed but relatable. I find myself being their cheerleader from my sofa !
Nicky is one of my favourite heroines, one impulsive moment has completely changed her life BUT
She’s strong, determined & fierce.
When she meets Joel, they have this instant connection. They both fall hard & fast but trust is broken on both sides, people & circumstances get in their way.
The journey Nicky & Joel had to take to find each other again with an unbreakable love in their hearts still burns strong and bright, is not an easy one. It's fraught with danger and terror, yet it is one of healing, hope and ultimately love.
A modern day, dark fairytale.
I don’t want to give to much away, all I can say is that I honestly can’t recommend Locked enough.
Thank you VR Tennent for my ARC copy. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next❣️
January 30, 2023
What a ride. Heartache and heartbreak and twists and turns galore.
As usual this authors words drag you in and keep you in a choke hold. I cried, laughed and wanted to scream all at the same time!
My heart hurt for Nicky. Joel was an idiot but did he redeem himself? You'll have to read this great story to find out. Imelda was amazing and I soon changed my mind on her.
They fell hard and fast and it was beautiful to see.
I loved this book, loved the mafia/crime Syndicate storyline and loved all the characters. Well.... apart from one! So excited to read more in this series!
As usual this authors words drag you in and keep you in a choke hold. I cried, laughed and wanted to scream all at the same time!
My heart hurt for Nicky. Joel was an idiot but did he redeem himself? You'll have to read this great story to find out. Imelda was amazing and I soon changed my mind on her.
They fell hard and fast and it was beautiful to see.
I loved this book, loved the mafia/crime Syndicate storyline and loved all the characters. Well.... apart from one! So excited to read more in this series!
February 5, 2023
My favourite quote:
“I reached for the stars and got the universe with you,”
This was one of those books where you pick up and can't put down.
This was written in dual POV.
Nicky was an ex convict and she meets Joel at an AA group. Their attraction is instant and they hit it off immediately.
I liked how the story started. It was very different and captivating. You wanted to know more..
This definitely was a book of 2 halves. You will understand when you read it. The writing was done so well, even I was shocked along with Nicky when secrets are revealed..
Both their chemistry was combustible.
Their journey to HEA isn't an easy one. So much heartbreak emotions, hot Steamy moments and twists and turns.
There are enemies lurking in the shadows..
Nicky was a very strong MFC and I liked how her character grew personally throughout.
I really liked Joel, until when there were other women involved during their break up. He was quite naive too, when it came to his cousin.
I have read plenty of books with MMC with other women but those scenes are always before they find their love intrest.
This is something most people will be OK with and that's fine. It's just one of my dislikes..
But this doesn't take away the quality of the this story..
Highly recommended for great entertainment and heart racing read.
Can't wait to see what is coming next from V R Tennant.
“I reached for the stars and got the universe with you,”
This was one of those books where you pick up and can't put down.
This was written in dual POV.
Nicky was an ex convict and she meets Joel at an AA group. Their attraction is instant and they hit it off immediately.
I liked how the story started. It was very different and captivating. You wanted to know more..
This definitely was a book of 2 halves. You will understand when you read it. The writing was done so well, even I was shocked along with Nicky when secrets are revealed..
Both their chemistry was combustible.
Their journey to HEA isn't an easy one. So much heartbreak emotions, hot Steamy moments and twists and turns.
There are enemies lurking in the shadows..
Nicky was a very strong MFC and I liked how her character grew personally throughout.
I really liked Joel, until when there were other women involved during their break up. He was quite naive too, when it came to his cousin.
I have read plenty of books with MMC with other women but those scenes are always before they find their love intrest.
This is something most people will be OK with and that's fine. It's just one of my dislikes..
But this doesn't take away the quality of the this story..
Highly recommended for great entertainment and heart racing read.
Can't wait to see what is coming next from V R Tennant.
January 29, 2023
Wow! I didn’t know what to expect when I got this book. But I’m so glad I read it!!
It starts pretty current with Nicky and Joel’s divorce, but guess back to before they met. It’s dual POV which I love seeing both characters thoughts.
The emotions and the characters themselves had everything and then some. Nicky from the time she was a teen to finding herself. That growth had me in my feels at times. There were a few times I wanted to smack Joel.
This was the first book I’ve read by this author and I definitely look forward to reading more.
Please check TW/CW’s as there are some.
Story 4.5⭐️
Spice 5⭐️🌶️
I got this as an ARC copy and this is my honest and true review
It starts pretty current with Nicky and Joel’s divorce, but guess back to before they met. It’s dual POV which I love seeing both characters thoughts.
The emotions and the characters themselves had everything and then some. Nicky from the time she was a teen to finding herself. That growth had me in my feels at times. There were a few times I wanted to smack Joel.
This was the first book I’ve read by this author and I definitely look forward to reading more.
Please check TW/CW’s as there are some.
Story 4.5⭐️
Spice 5⭐️🌶️
I got this as an ARC copy and this is my honest and true review
January 29, 2023
Wow this book definitely pulled some surprises I couldn’t put it down !!! Loved how the story was told all I kept says through the book was WHY?.
Joel and Nicky had the perfect marriage but trust was broken, Joel never stopped wanting her back however far to many secrets and people got in the way. I really don’t want to go into the whole blurb just read it. Amazing writing skills I loved how this story was plotted out taking you through the ups and downs.
Joel and Nicky had the perfect marriage but trust was broken, Joel never stopped wanting her back however far to many secrets and people got in the way. I really don’t want to go into the whole blurb just read it. Amazing writing skills I loved how this story was plotted out taking you through the ups and downs.
January 30, 2023
Okay I LOVED Loving Dr Jones BUT this one it’s soooo good emotional yes 🙌🏻 VR Tennent said you like mafia? I got you babe!! Holy god this book is so good the spice phenomenal, the story omg I had to stop midway though to go to work(booo!) and was constantly thinking about Joel and Nicky. Mafia fairytale,is how I would describe it and it’s a freaking good story. Definitely has some heavy scenes. It’s got a strong FMC and our MMC swoon worthy honestly. A perfect valentines read imo
January 30, 2023
Holy hell!!! This book is one you can’t put down. I ended up reading it all in one day. Highly recommend reading.
January 29, 2023
I don't know where to start with this book when you start reading this book it gets to you right away with how Nicky got a divorce after 6 years years of good marriage,
Nicky did not have a good past when she was younger, but that all changed when she met Joel and got married after 4 months, you get an input into Nicky's past and you can't help feeling for her.
They were both very happy together. They had their ups and downs and when Nicky finds out about his family she still stays with him.
But after they both Accuse each other of something it can't be forgotten.
Joel will never stop loving Nicky as she is the only one he wants and he will do anything to protect her even if they are not together.
Nicky is still very much in love with Joel, but does not want her heart broken again.
Can they both get back together and give their love for each other a go or will danger be around the corner that will stop them.
It's a must read
Nicky did not have a good past when she was younger, but that all changed when she met Joel and got married after 4 months, you get an input into Nicky's past and you can't help feeling for her.
They were both very happy together. They had their ups and downs and when Nicky finds out about his family she still stays with him.
But after they both Accuse each other of something it can't be forgotten.
Joel will never stop loving Nicky as she is the only one he wants and he will do anything to protect her even if they are not together.
Nicky is still very much in love with Joel, but does not want her heart broken again.
Can they both get back together and give their love for each other a go or will danger be around the corner that will stop them.
It's a must read
January 30, 2023
WOW another great read, another book that is difficult to put down!
I loved the Mafia storyline, the way the characters and their flaws were presented, the choices they made and the depth of emotion it caused. It was a rollercoaster keeping me hooked with a number of surprises making it difficult to second guess, you just had to read further….
Another book I’d highly recommend.
I loved the Mafia storyline, the way the characters and their flaws were presented, the choices they made and the depth of emotion it caused. It was a rollercoaster keeping me hooked with a number of surprises making it difficult to second guess, you just had to read further….
Another book I’d highly recommend.
January 31, 2023
Another fantastic read from VR Tennent, loved the whole story from beginning to end!
February 8, 2023
From word one I couldn’t put this book down !! VR Tennet knows how to write a book, she builds up her characters and storylines wonderfully and by doing so she pulls you in and causes this need that you just have to know what happens next !! She makes you fall in love with fictional people, and you seriously can’t put the book down !! I cant wait to see what VR Tennet has next for us !! A MUST READ !!
July 15, 2025
These authors' books are incredible and so enjoyable. It's such an emotional read—Nicky has to fight for everything her whole life, and the man she loves, Joel, causes her so much pain. It's absolutely addictive; you won't want to put it down.
June 11, 2023
I had seen lots of reels on Instagram in which people were thrilled with this book. I decided to check it out, and… Well, I believe it is highly overrated. I didn’t enjoy it at all. The story is not written so well. The plot is too chaotic. Some things don’t add up at all - they are unnecessary or poorly explained. First of all, Nicky’s family and her past in general - I cannot understand it. The description of the way she reacted when she found out that her father had been cheating on her mother was awful. At that point, I wanted to stop reading for fear of reading other threads that would be similar as well. Surprise - they were - the death of Joel’s father and Nicky’s mother, the accusation of cheating and stealing Ciara’s work, arranged marriage and the whole mafia thread. The book is realny short. I reckon, it would be much better if the author expanded those threads, maybe even changed.
When it comes to the characters, I kind of like Nicky, because she decided to divorce Joel, but I don’t get why she would accept him so easily. Joel, on the other hand, is not presented so well. Once he is madly in love with Nicky, then he doesn’t believe her when she denies Ciara’s accusations. Joel promises never to lie to her again, but repeats it anyway. He says he loves her and that she’s the only one to be loved by him, but he finds a girl who looks just like her. I don’t get him. Finally, Sophia - I think she’s unnecessary like she doesn’t add anything to the plot. Her character would have to be way more developed. She would have to have a higher impact on Nicky.
It is a sign not to read the books so hyped online.
When it comes to the characters, I kind of like Nicky, because she decided to divorce Joel, but I don’t get why she would accept him so easily. Joel, on the other hand, is not presented so well. Once he is madly in love with Nicky, then he doesn’t believe her when she denies Ciara’s accusations. Joel promises never to lie to her again, but repeats it anyway. He says he loves her and that she’s the only one to be loved by him, but he finds a girl who looks just like her. I don’t get him. Finally, Sophia - I think she’s unnecessary like she doesn’t add anything to the plot. Her character would have to be way more developed. She would have to have a higher impact on Nicky.
It is a sign not to read the books so hyped online.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2023
HEARTACHE, RAW, REAL LIFE DECISIONS
This book hit right in the feels from the beginning with the family drama and the relationship Nicky had with her parents. God did that break my heart. I had to put it down for a sec to swallow the emotions. VR Tennent did a great job writing the struggles that the character went through, the emotions that she felt. I can feel the sadness, anger and emptiness as I read it. The love story between Nicky & Joel is crazy and fast but I love it so much!!! It makes me sad how it was destroyed but the love he has for her is just, AAAHHH ❤️❤️.
This is the first book I read from this amazing author, I definitely recommend. Even though I did get lost a bit at the beginning with the timeline, as I read more into the chapters I started to understand that it kept jumping to back in time, I did enjoy the book & I will be looking forward to what is next from this author.
This book hit right in the feels from the beginning with the family drama and the relationship Nicky had with her parents. God did that break my heart. I had to put it down for a sec to swallow the emotions. VR Tennent did a great job writing the struggles that the character went through, the emotions that she felt. I can feel the sadness, anger and emptiness as I read it. The love story between Nicky & Joel is crazy and fast but I love it so much!!! It makes me sad how it was destroyed but the love he has for her is just, AAAHHH ❤️❤️.
This is the first book I read from this amazing author, I definitely recommend. Even though I did get lost a bit at the beginning with the timeline, as I read more into the chapters I started to understand that it kept jumping to back in time, I did enjoy the book & I will be looking forward to what is next from this author.
will-not-read
March 24, 2023Did Not Read. Refuse to Read. This Book Not For Me. Too Ick-Infested for my taste.
Just from reading other reviews, there were multiple other women for the MMC (can't/won't call him a "hero"), and the author included those sex scenes in the story. The MMC had apparently repeatedly stated that the FMC was "the love of his life..his soulmate", and yet, he had no problem screwing multiple women. Oh, sure it's all supposed to be "after the divorce", but it's also while he was supposed to be pursuing the FMC again. Umm...NO. Supposedly one of the brothel workers he had a "f*ck-fest" with looked like the FMC, and he was seen with her...everywhere, dating the look-alike brothel worker because "she calmed" him, but that he would always love his (ex) wife so there could never be anything real between him and the look-alike (insert eye-roll here). From what I read in the reviews, I didn't find the MMC redeemable.
Just from reading other reviews, there were multiple other women for the MMC (can't/won't call him a "hero"), and the author included those sex scenes in the story. The MMC had apparently repeatedly stated that the FMC was "the love of his life..his soulmate", and yet, he had no problem screwing multiple women. Oh, sure it's all supposed to be "after the divorce", but it's also while he was supposed to be pursuing the FMC again. Umm...NO. Supposedly one of the brothel workers he had a "f*ck-fest" with looked like the FMC, and he was seen with her...everywhere, dating the look-alike brothel worker because "she calmed" him, but that he would always love his (ex) wife so there could never be anything real between him and the look-alike (insert eye-roll here). From what I read in the reviews, I didn't find the MMC redeemable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2023
Times like this i wish i was an author so I could word my review better. I won’t do the book justice! Like always check the triggers if you have them. I don’t so i like to go in blind. The FMC and the MMC… ugh! Their back story and progress throughout the entire book just builds. You feel like you are living the life with with. Cheering, crying, loving right next to them. VR does an amazing job telling the story without it being predictable at every turn. I won’t give the story away… but i will tell you it is going to hook you in! The spice levels are there and written into the story so that it makes sense. I highly recommend this book to everyone that likes Insta-love (but will it make it through the struggles), second chance love, suspense, dark topics, FMC over coming her past, and good page turning spice, mixed in criminal actions.
February 4, 2023
I love this direction Victoria has taken touching on the mafia world, as with all her other books we are jumping back and forth with the timeframe as so much has happened with these characters you need to understand their background and what makes them tick, but because of the jumps the development of each character is spot on and I felt like I was living with them through their individual traumas, and the dual POV also helped.
Joel and Nicky are the insta love story that is as they describe as a dark fairytale, they are soulmates but they are separated by their own trust issues and my heart dropped for Nicky when their marriage broke down, Joel had his own secrets which once Nicky found out she didn’t bolt she stayed and Nicky wasn’t given the same trust from Joel when they were up against it. Joel has some grovelling to do and he really does need to redeem himself.
Joel and Nicky are the insta love story that is as they describe as a dark fairytale, they are soulmates but they are separated by their own trust issues and my heart dropped for Nicky when their marriage broke down, Joel had his own secrets which once Nicky found out she didn’t bolt she stayed and Nicky wasn’t given the same trust from Joel when they were up against it. Joel has some grovelling to do and he really does need to redeem himself.
February 10, 2023
What a f@ckng ride. VR Tennant you are superb.
“I reached for the stars and got the universe with you,”
You want mafia? I got you.
You want second chance romance? I got you.
You want a book where you will never be able to guess what happens next? I got you.
Nicky and Joel are so extremely different and yet their love story just works. There are so many twists and turns, so many emotions, reading Locked was a total rollercoaster but I just got sucked in and a loved every second. These two meet unconventionally but their chemistry is instantaneous. It doesn’t matter what comes their way they are both determined to make it work, that is until the truth finally breaks free, is the real Joel still the man Nicky feel in love with?
Highly recommend reading this, and thank you to VR Tennant for the ARC!
“I reached for the stars and got the universe with you,”
You want mafia? I got you.
You want second chance romance? I got you.
You want a book where you will never be able to guess what happens next? I got you.
Nicky and Joel are so extremely different and yet their love story just works. There are so many twists and turns, so many emotions, reading Locked was a total rollercoaster but I just got sucked in and a loved every second. These two meet unconventionally but their chemistry is instantaneous. It doesn’t matter what comes their way they are both determined to make it work, that is until the truth finally breaks free, is the real Joel still the man Nicky feel in love with?
Highly recommend reading this, and thank you to VR Tennant for the ARC!
February 11, 2023
Nicky has been through a lot, which helped destroy her marriage to Joel. Even though their marriage is over Joel isn’t ready to abandon his soulmate. Especially when she is now in more danger than ever due to his family business.
It did take me a minute to get into the story but once I learned little more about their past I couldn’t put it down. I actually love how the book was written, the story line jumps between the present and the past. It really allows you to appreciate their whole love story. There was also a lot of unexpected twist and turns which I loved. I read at lot of books so some books become predictable to me and this one wasn’t.
It did take me a minute to get into the story but once I learned little more about their past I couldn’t put it down. I actually love how the book was written, the story line jumps between the present and the past. It really allows you to appreciate their whole love story. There was also a lot of unexpected twist and turns which I loved. I read at lot of books so some books become predictable to me and this one wasn’t.
January 31, 2023
Locked is told in a dual POV. The main characteristics are Nicky and Joel. To be honest, I'm typically a smut, dark romance, reverse harem kind of girl. When I say I couldn’t put this book down, it's that good. I love how it tells the backstory of their relationship. How they met, how they fell in love, and then it leads up to their current lives. This book is written so well. I get a little mafia vibe from it as well. I definitely feel like it's a slow burn, but no doubt this book is a must-read! This is the first book I've read from V.R. tennent, and I can't wait to see what's next.
January 26, 2025
Way better than I expected.
And not as good as you’re hoping.
The 25% of the novel…from the h leaving H to seeing him at the fashion show…was such lovely angst, but not worth the read for me.
The writing was passable at whiplash speed but I felt too many details were glossed over or solved off page.
THEN there was the April 2020 chapter…going to a tea room in Glasgow without mentioning masks or Covid??? LMAO.
The H never made any effort to win the h back, it just kinda happens randomly with no grovel.
And not as good as you’re hoping.
The 25% of the novel…from the h leaving H to seeing him at the fashion show…was such lovely angst, but not worth the read for me.
The writing was passable at whiplash speed but I felt too many details were glossed over or solved off page.
THEN there was the April 2020 chapter…going to a tea room in Glasgow without mentioning masks or Covid??? LMAO.
The H never made any effort to win the h back, it just kinda happens randomly with no grovel.
February 11, 2023
This was my first read by VR Tennent. This is book one in the Guilty Secrets series. This book was so good and I related with the FMC in a few ways. The MMC is her ex-husband who still loves her deeply. This story had me feeling so many different emotions. I devoured this book with every page turn. VR really knows how to bring the readers into a story, making them want more. Can't wait to read more of VR's work in the future.
February 5, 2023
Another fantastic read! This one had my mind racing and just when I thought I knew where the story was going there were surprises! You crave a HEA for these two as you see how they equally needed one another. A real page turner, full of romance, great characters, angst but most of all gripping story telling! Smashed it again VR Tennent 👏👏👏
February 12, 2023
VR Tennant has done it again, drawing me in from page one and delivering another fantastic book. It’s very spicy, mafia which I love mafia, drama, betrayal, suspense and so much more. She always makes everything tie so well together. She also does a amazing job at making you fall in love with her characters. I recommend this book 10/10 and always recommend the author!
May 7, 2023
Talk about angst, this book had it in spades! I have a hate/love thing with angsty books. They make me feel awful but I can’t get enough of them either. Some of the story was a little unbelievable but that’s what books are for, right? To get lost in a make believe story? I’d you like angst and a well written story, then this book is for you!
February 4, 2023
Well, what a first read by VR Tennent. I went into this book completely blind and clueless as to what to expect.
I enjoyed it very much. The story is emotional and romantic. It had a mafia vibe that I didn't expect. Especially in the middle of Glasgow!
Its an insta love connection between Nicky and Joel, an emotional ride through their relationship. He's wealthy but not your typical alpha millionaire. Nicky is an ex convict not long released from prison, they shouldn't be a match. They shouldn't even be in each others social circles but they are meant to be together. I don't want to give away any spoilers, so give it a read!
I enjoyed it very much. The story is emotional and romantic. It had a mafia vibe that I didn't expect. Especially in the middle of Glasgow!
Its an insta love connection between Nicky and Joel, an emotional ride through their relationship. He's wealthy but not your typical alpha millionaire. Nicky is an ex convict not long released from prison, they shouldn't be a match. They shouldn't even be in each others social circles but they are meant to be together. I don't want to give away any spoilers, so give it a read!
February 6, 2023
*****ARC Review*****
Amazing story of how someone can find love again and get through their past because of someone new.
You have got to read this story for yourself. It is written in a way that you can’t help but feel like you are right there with the main characters.
Amazing story of how someone can find love again and get through their past because of someone new.
You have got to read this story for yourself. It is written in a way that you can’t help but feel like you are right there with the main characters.
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