What do you think?
Rate this book
Darkest Dance #1
Dance of Deception
A scorching hot new mafia series from bestselling author Jagger Cole.
He knows what I saw. Now he owns me.
Carmine Barone is a monster no one sees but me.
A beautiful villain with a cold, black heart and a body honed for violence.
But when I stumble into a world I was never meant to see, the ruthless mafia heir becomes something else, too:
My husband.
Now, I’m trapped in a forced marriage to a man who hunts in darkness.
A man who plays games with lies and deception.
A secret predator who wants to feast on my darkest most immoral desires.
And the only thing worse than being chased by a psychopath?
Wanting him to.
Dance of Deception is a standalone dark mafia romance with a smart heroine, and an ultra possessive psycho hero with "look at her and I'll unalive you" energy. Readers are STRONGLY advised to read the TW inside. No cliffhanger; HEA included.
He knows what I saw. Now he owns me.
Carmine Barone is a monster no one sees but me.
A beautiful villain with a cold, black heart and a body honed for violence.
But when I stumble into a world I was never meant to see, the ruthless mafia heir becomes something else, too:
My husband.
Now, I’m trapped in a forced marriage to a man who hunts in darkness.
A man who plays games with lies and deception.
A secret predator who wants to feast on my darkest most immoral desires.
And the only thing worse than being chased by a psychopath?
Wanting him to.
Dance of Deception is a standalone dark mafia romance with a smart heroine, and an ultra possessive psycho hero with "look at her and I'll unalive you" energy. Readers are STRONGLY advised to read the TW inside. No cliffhanger; HEA included.
528 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 13, 2025
1,045 people are currently reading
1,713 people want to read
About the author
Jagger Cole
67books4,269followersA reader first and foremost, Jagger Cole cut his romance writing teeth penning various fan-fiction stories years ago. After deciding to hang up his writing boots, Jagger worked in advertising pretending to be Don Draper. It worked enough to convince a woman way out of his league to marry him, though, which is a total win.
Now, Dad to two little princesses and King to a Queen, Jagger is thrilled to be back at the keyboard.
When not writing or reading romance books, he can be found woodworking, enjoying good whiskey, and grilling outside—rain or shine.
You can find all of his books at �
Grab a FREE book for joining my fans-only newsletter! ->
Now, Dad to two little princesses and King to a Queen, Jagger is thrilled to be back at the keyboard.
When not writing or reading romance books, he can be found woodworking, enjoying good whiskey, and grilling outside—rain or shine.
You can find all of his books at �
Grab a FREE book for joining my fans-only newsletter! ->
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 406 reviews
March 29, 2025
Okay, I really thought this was gonna be in my top 3 Jagger Cole books, but why is it not??
First of all, Cole can write, no doubt. His stories? 🔥🔥🔥 His world-building? Immaculate. But romance? Yeah, not so much. Like, his books are scorching hot (why do I keep coming back? You already know.), and I’m way too invested in this world to back out now. But emotional depth? That’s where he fumbles. Every. Single. Time.
Honestly, this was a 4-star read easy, until it wasn’t. And the reason? Clear as day. I’ve read 20+ Cole books, and lately, every single one of them feels the same. And don’t even get me started on how they all start the exact same way—with a dub-con scene that’s basically non-con. And I hate that. I love a well-written dub-con moment, but not when it veers into full non-con territory. At this point, it’s a pattern, and it’s exhausting.
And the endings? OH. MY. GOD. Someone make it stop. Cole, babe, do you know any other way to end a book? Because it’s always:
1. Misunderstanding or fight in the last 10-20%.
2. FMC gets kidnapped.
3. MMC goes full psycho mode and comes to the rescue.
4. Both of them end up in danger.
5. They miraculously save themselves.
6. HEA.
LITERALLY. EVERY. TIME. I am so sick of reading the same damn ending over and over. Like, at this point, it should be illegal.
So, where does Dance of Deception land? Right in the middle. Carmine Barone is a ruthless psycho, and Lyra is a ballerina with a tragic past. She sees something she shouldn’t have, and now she’s trapped in a forced marriage to Carmine. The push-pull? On fire. The spice? Top-tier. The emotional connection? Where?
Look, I love a good dark romance, but I also want to believe in the love. And here? It’s just not there. Lyra and Carmine spend more time indulging in their kinks than actually talking. I’d love to ask Carmine, "What do you love about Lyra? What are her best traits?" Because honestly? I have no idea.
The secret society aspect? More laughable than intimidating. It’s giving grown men playing dress-up.
So yeah, Dance of Deception is hot, addictive, and entertaining—bܳ deep? Not at all. If you love Cole’s usual formula, you’ll eat this up. But if you’re looking for something fresh and different? You won’t find it here.
Tropes:
� Enemies-to-lovers �
� Forced marriage 💍
� Psycho MMC �
� Secret society/Masked men 🎭
� Dub-con (borderline non-con) ⚠️
Would I keep reading this series? Of course. Am I frustrated? Absolutely.
First of all, Cole can write, no doubt. His stories? 🔥🔥🔥 His world-building? Immaculate. But romance? Yeah, not so much. Like, his books are scorching hot (why do I keep coming back? You already know.), and I’m way too invested in this world to back out now. But emotional depth? That’s where he fumbles. Every. Single. Time.
Honestly, this was a 4-star read easy, until it wasn’t. And the reason? Clear as day. I’ve read 20+ Cole books, and lately, every single one of them feels the same. And don’t even get me started on how they all start the exact same way—with a dub-con scene that’s basically non-con. And I hate that. I love a well-written dub-con moment, but not when it veers into full non-con territory. At this point, it’s a pattern, and it’s exhausting.
And the endings? OH. MY. GOD. Someone make it stop. Cole, babe, do you know any other way to end a book? Because it’s always:
1. Misunderstanding or fight in the last 10-20%.
2. FMC gets kidnapped.
3. MMC goes full psycho mode and comes to the rescue.
4. Both of them end up in danger.
5. They miraculously save themselves.
6. HEA.
LITERALLY. EVERY. TIME. I am so sick of reading the same damn ending over and over. Like, at this point, it should be illegal.
So, where does Dance of Deception land? Right in the middle. Carmine Barone is a ruthless psycho, and Lyra is a ballerina with a tragic past. She sees something she shouldn’t have, and now she’s trapped in a forced marriage to Carmine. The push-pull? On fire. The spice? Top-tier. The emotional connection? Where?
Look, I love a good dark romance, but I also want to believe in the love. And here? It’s just not there. Lyra and Carmine spend more time indulging in their kinks than actually talking. I’d love to ask Carmine, "What do you love about Lyra? What are her best traits?" Because honestly? I have no idea.
The secret society aspect? More laughable than intimidating. It’s giving grown men playing dress-up.
So yeah, Dance of Deception is hot, addictive, and entertaining—bܳ deep? Not at all. If you love Cole’s usual formula, you’ll eat this up. But if you’re looking for something fresh and different? You won’t find it here.
Tropes:
� Enemies-to-lovers �
� Forced marriage 💍
� Psycho MMC �
� Secret society/Masked men 🎭
� Dub-con (borderline non-con) ⚠️
Would I keep reading this series? Of course. Am I frustrated? Absolutely.
March 10, 2025
Dance of Deception by Jagger Cole
4/5 stars
Dance of Deception is a new seriesby Jagger Cole and like his previous books, this book is f***ing addictive! This book and series has a huge overlap with the VenomousGods series and I loved that so much. Bianca and Kratos are by far my favorite couple in this world and I absorbed every scene they were in.
But Lyra and Carmine are equally impressive! Lyra just finished practising at the ballet and she is the last one to leave. As she leaves she overhears Carmine Barone talking business to some men. She tries to hide in the shadows. But his shadow is way darker and has already sensed her hiding. And after he is done talking he stalks towards her.Lyra is scared but intensely drawn to him.
Theway he wrappedhis hand around my throatand stroked my pulse as he studied me--it wasn't just dominance. That was something much darker.
If this is startled, I'd love to see what it looks like when you're truly scared.
I pull my hoodie tighter around me.
Again, it was like he was getting off of my terror.
Like a psychopath.
When she arrives home she has to deal with her drunk and cruel mother. Her mother blames her for her father's death. And her cruel words invoke the pain of the past. Lyra has been through something incredibly dark and her father was a ruthless man who raped and murdered women. They are in dire need of money. And Lyra is willing to do anything to pay off her late father's debts.
Things escalate and she sees things she wasn't supposed to see. A masked man hunts her down. And the only way to get out of this hole is to marry Carmine and get her hands on the money he promises his future wife.
Ilook up. He smiles coldly.
"I bought you."
I suck in a sharp breath.
He lifts a hand, brushes my cheek. "You're going to marry me, Lyra," me murmurs. "You belong to me now."
Even Bianca, Carmine's sister, warns her..
She takes a slow breath, her eyes lifting to mine. "Look, you're the human psychology student. Carmine is.. different. Not always, and he's very good at hiding it away. But.. It's there. And as much as I love him. He scares me sometimes.
Her throat works again as she takes one of my hands in hers.
"Lyra," she says quietly. "I'm not mad at you for marrying my brother. I'm terrified for you."
The more time they spend together the more she notices his darkness. But it doesn't scare her. It heals her, opens her and she blooms in his presence. But the past doesn't want to stay in the past and is consistently hunting her down. Things get more and more complicated and eventually it explodes.
Lyra and Carmine are pure fire together! I love their bond, their passion and how slowly they start to feel more for one another instead of just lust.
The only reason I rated it 4 out of 5 stars is because I couldn't place the distrust at one point in the story. I was really like between the two of them? It felt like it took too long for her to realize that there was a deeper trust. And that frustrated me a little bit.
But overall this is a magnificent, hot, captivating and incredibly exciting story. I couldn't stop reading and I flew through the pages. If you love dark romance then definitely give Jagger Cole a chance. He is the king of Mafia Dark Romance stories!
4 huge stars from me for this incredible story.
4/5 stars
Dance of Deception is a new seriesby Jagger Cole and like his previous books, this book is f***ing addictive! This book and series has a huge overlap with the VenomousGods series and I loved that so much. Bianca and Kratos are by far my favorite couple in this world and I absorbed every scene they were in.
But Lyra and Carmine are equally impressive! Lyra just finished practising at the ballet and she is the last one to leave. As she leaves she overhears Carmine Barone talking business to some men. She tries to hide in the shadows. But his shadow is way darker and has already sensed her hiding. And after he is done talking he stalks towards her.Lyra is scared but intensely drawn to him.
Theway he wrappedhis hand around my throatand stroked my pulse as he studied me--it wasn't just dominance. That was something much darker.
If this is startled, I'd love to see what it looks like when you're truly scared.
I pull my hoodie tighter around me.
Again, it was like he was getting off of my terror.
Like a psychopath.
When she arrives home she has to deal with her drunk and cruel mother. Her mother blames her for her father's death. And her cruel words invoke the pain of the past. Lyra has been through something incredibly dark and her father was a ruthless man who raped and murdered women. They are in dire need of money. And Lyra is willing to do anything to pay off her late father's debts.
Things escalate and she sees things she wasn't supposed to see. A masked man hunts her down. And the only way to get out of this hole is to marry Carmine and get her hands on the money he promises his future wife.
Ilook up. He smiles coldly.
"I bought you."
I suck in a sharp breath.
He lifts a hand, brushes my cheek. "You're going to marry me, Lyra," me murmurs. "You belong to me now."
Even Bianca, Carmine's sister, warns her..
She takes a slow breath, her eyes lifting to mine. "Look, you're the human psychology student. Carmine is.. different. Not always, and he's very good at hiding it away. But.. It's there. And as much as I love him. He scares me sometimes.
Her throat works again as she takes one of my hands in hers.
"Lyra," she says quietly. "I'm not mad at you for marrying my brother. I'm terrified for you."
The more time they spend together the more she notices his darkness. But it doesn't scare her. It heals her, opens her and she blooms in his presence. But the past doesn't want to stay in the past and is consistently hunting her down. Things get more and more complicated and eventually it explodes.
Lyra and Carmine are pure fire together! I love their bond, their passion and how slowly they start to feel more for one another instead of just lust.
The only reason I rated it 4 out of 5 stars is because I couldn't place the distrust at one point in the story. I was really like between the two of them? It felt like it took too long for her to realize that there was a deeper trust. And that frustrated me a little bit.
But overall this is a magnificent, hot, captivating and incredibly exciting story. I couldn't stop reading and I flew through the pages. If you love dark romance then definitely give Jagger Cole a chance. He is the king of Mafia Dark Romance stories!
4 huge stars from me for this incredible story.
March 15, 2025
I love all the dark mafia romances from Jagger!
He just knows how to write perfect stories with all the tropes I'm addicted to. Can't wait for the next one!
He just knows how to write perfect stories with all the tropes I'm addicted to. Can't wait for the next one!
March 13, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶�.5
Dance of Deception is the start of a brand new series from Jagger Cole, and I was excited to see which mafia we were going to be focusing on after loving the Memento Mori series about the Yakuza I was honestly surprised we were not getting Kir's book since he was featured in that series. Luckily, he does show up in this book, and I keep loving him even more!
Carmine Barone was first introduced in the Venomous Gods series. You may remember him as Dante and Bianca's older brother. He is about to become the Don since his father plans to retire, and he is also part of a secret society within the mafia called the "Black Court." Lyra discovers his secret by mistake while she danced blindfolded at a secret location and witnesses him execute a man as 'The Hound' from the Black Court. Lyra has been struggling financially as a professional ballerina since she has to help support her alcoholic mother. She is put in an even more desperate situation now that she has to pay off her father's debt, so she makes a risky choice to try to blackmail Carmine with his secret. Now, Carmine decides to pay off her debt and forces her to become his wife.
I was surprised to see how ruthless and dark Carmine was, compared to what he was like in Toxic Love. He is definitely considered a psychopath, but Lyra is drawn to his darkness. She appreciates the same kinks as Carmine, and they are a perfect match. As always, Jagger Cole delivers the spice, and there are so many hot scenes.
The only issue I had was with feeling the romance and emotional connection between the characters. It was mostly a sexual relationship, and I just wanted more intimate scenes between the characters. I do think that was difficult in this since Jagger was trying to set up a whole new series, and there were a lot of new characters introduced. I loved the secret society aspect, and I can't wait for the rest of the series.
Jagger Cole always delivers an excellent mafia storyline with lots of twists and turns. This one had a crazy twist, and it was super exciting!
Kinks: CNC, primal play, biting, marking, somnophilia
Thank you to Valentine PR for providing the ARC.
🌶️🌶️🌶�.5
Dance of Deception is the start of a brand new series from Jagger Cole, and I was excited to see which mafia we were going to be focusing on after loving the Memento Mori series about the Yakuza I was honestly surprised we were not getting Kir's book since he was featured in that series. Luckily, he does show up in this book, and I keep loving him even more!
Carmine Barone was first introduced in the Venomous Gods series. You may remember him as Dante and Bianca's older brother. He is about to become the Don since his father plans to retire, and he is also part of a secret society within the mafia called the "Black Court." Lyra discovers his secret by mistake while she danced blindfolded at a secret location and witnesses him execute a man as 'The Hound' from the Black Court. Lyra has been struggling financially as a professional ballerina since she has to help support her alcoholic mother. She is put in an even more desperate situation now that she has to pay off her father's debt, so she makes a risky choice to try to blackmail Carmine with his secret. Now, Carmine decides to pay off her debt and forces her to become his wife.
I was surprised to see how ruthless and dark Carmine was, compared to what he was like in Toxic Love. He is definitely considered a psychopath, but Lyra is drawn to his darkness. She appreciates the same kinks as Carmine, and they are a perfect match. As always, Jagger Cole delivers the spice, and there are so many hot scenes.
The only issue I had was with feeling the romance and emotional connection between the characters. It was mostly a sexual relationship, and I just wanted more intimate scenes between the characters. I do think that was difficult in this since Jagger was trying to set up a whole new series, and there were a lot of new characters introduced. I loved the secret society aspect, and I can't wait for the rest of the series.
Jagger Cole always delivers an excellent mafia storyline with lots of twists and turns. This one had a crazy twist, and it was super exciting!
Kinks: CNC, primal play, biting, marking, somnophilia
Thank you to Valentine PR for providing the ARC.
March 14, 2025
I’d love to ask Carmine what he loves about Lyra. What are his favorite things about her, about her personality?
I’m curious, considering those two characters didn’t really spend any time together that wasn’t focused on indulging in their kinks. That was the extent of their entire relationship.
This book reminded me a lot of the “Vicious hearts� from one of the author’s previous series. The story of Cillian and Una was similar to the point that all of the plot twists, besides maybe one, were incredibly obvious and heavily foreshadowed.
I honestly just got bored with it. More so because the whole Black Court storyline just made me cringe. The whole concept of it and the way those masked guys carried themselves with such pomposity and self-importance made them look like boys that want to be taken seriously and treated like adults, but all the props only make them look more immature and ridiculous.
Either this book really was unusually boring and unoriginal or I got to the point where I’m bored of reading Jagger Cole, who seems to be constantly writing the same characters falling in the same type of lust, but never actually in love. Dunno.
I’m curious, considering those two characters didn’t really spend any time together that wasn’t focused on indulging in their kinks. That was the extent of their entire relationship.
This book reminded me a lot of the “Vicious hearts� from one of the author’s previous series. The story of Cillian and Una was similar to the point that all of the plot twists, besides maybe one, were incredibly obvious and heavily foreshadowed.
I honestly just got bored with it. More so because the whole Black Court storyline just made me cringe. The whole concept of it and the way those masked guys carried themselves with such pomposity and self-importance made them look like boys that want to be taken seriously and treated like adults, but all the props only make them look more immature and ridiculous.
Either this book really was unusually boring and unoriginal or I got to the point where I’m bored of reading Jagger Cole, who seems to be constantly writing the same characters falling in the same type of lust, but never actually in love. Dunno.
March 14, 2025
Tropes:
� Enemies-to-lovers
� Forced marriage
� True psycho hero
� Secret society/Masked men
� Primal/CNC/impact kinks
� Look at her and 🔪
� Enemies-to-lovers
� Forced marriage
� True psycho hero
� Secret society/Masked men
� Primal/CNC/impact kinks
� Look at her and 🔪
March 10, 2025
5⭐️3🌶�
Are you kidding me?? Absolutely OBSESSED with this book!! It was so good and it had me hooked from page one.
Carmine wasn’t someone I was super intrigued by in the past books but holy fuck did I absolutely LOVE this man. He was completely unhinged, don’t get me wrong, but some of the things this man did & said to Lyra had me absolutely melting for him 🥹
Lyra has an insane amount of trauma from what she witnessed at 14 years old by her father. She’s kept that trauma bottled up inside of her. She doesn’t face it head on until Carmine is there and helps her work through it.
There’s so much suspense and secrecy and a major twist that definitely had my jaw dropping.
I swear no one writes better mafia than Jagger. I’m so excited for the rest of the series to come ESPECIALLY Kir’s book.
Thank you so much Jagger Cole & VPR for this arc 🤍
Are you kidding me?? Absolutely OBSESSED with this book!! It was so good and it had me hooked from page one.
Carmine wasn’t someone I was super intrigued by in the past books but holy fuck did I absolutely LOVE this man. He was completely unhinged, don’t get me wrong, but some of the things this man did & said to Lyra had me absolutely melting for him 🥹
Lyra has an insane amount of trauma from what she witnessed at 14 years old by her father. She’s kept that trauma bottled up inside of her. She doesn’t face it head on until Carmine is there and helps her work through it.
There’s so much suspense and secrecy and a major twist that definitely had my jaw dropping.
I swear no one writes better mafia than Jagger. I’m so excited for the rest of the series to come ESPECIALLY Kir’s book.
Thank you so much Jagger Cole & VPR for this arc 🤍
March 12, 2025
“𝑰’𝒍� 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅 𝒐𝒏 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒓.�
If y'all don't know this yet, let me tell y'all that I'm totally a mafia girly as I live for those deranged, over possesive psychopath mafia bosses who scream 'look at her and I'll unalive you' energy. And this book- I DEVOURED IT IN SINGLE SITTING.
This was my first Jagger Cole book. I have several of his books on my TBR and now I know what I’m going to read in my spare time (gonna straight up devour his other mafia series lol). BCOZ DAMN THIS WAS SO GOOD.
Carmine Barone needs a wife to become the new Don of Barone family and is also a member of a secret society. From their first meet he has his eyes set on Lyra, a ballerina with traumatic past.
"𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒚 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑩𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏. 𝑺𝒉𝒆’� 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰’𝒍� 𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒈𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓.
𝑬𝒙𝒄𝒆𝒑𝒕 𝒎𝒆.
𝑭𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝑰’𝒍� 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘���𝒓𝒍� 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘𝒏."
I LOVE CARMINE BARONE 🫠💕, there's just no other reason for me to think these lines are hot lmao 🥵🤌.
If you're in a mood for spicy dark forced marriage mafia romance, this book is for you <3.
Tropes-
Mafia
Forced Marriage
BDSM
Masked Men
Secret society
OTT Unhinged MMC
Touch her and 💀
If y'all don't know this yet, let me tell y'all that I'm totally a mafia girly as I live for those deranged, over possesive psychopath mafia bosses who scream 'look at her and I'll unalive you' energy. And this book- I DEVOURED IT IN SINGLE SITTING.
This was my first Jagger Cole book. I have several of his books on my TBR and now I know what I’m going to read in my spare time (gonna straight up devour his other mafia series lol). BCOZ DAMN THIS WAS SO GOOD.
Carmine Barone needs a wife to become the new Don of Barone family and is also a member of a secret society. From their first meet he has his eyes set on Lyra, a ballerina with traumatic past.
"𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒚 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑩𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏. 𝑺𝒉𝒆’� 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰’𝒍� 𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒈𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓.
𝑬𝒙𝒄𝒆𝒑𝒕 𝒎𝒆.
𝑭𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝑰’𝒍� 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘���𝒓𝒍� 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘𝒏."
I LOVE CARMINE BARONE 🫠💕, there's just no other reason for me to think these lines are hot lmao 🥵🤌.
If you're in a mood for spicy dark forced marriage mafia romance, this book is for you <3.
Tropes-
Mafia
Forced Marriage
BDSM
Masked Men
Secret society
OTT Unhinged MMC
Touch her and 💀
March 17, 2025
First typo I noticed was on page 81� well done, Jagger! Further, the description of Carmine’s package provided me with a weekend of much needed laughter.
March 12, 2025
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I loved this book so much. It was absolutely incredible. I enjoyed it from start to finish and not once throughout reading did I think anything other than how much I loved it.
I will be very surprised if this book is not in my top 10 favorites of the year.
In my personal opinion, Jagger Cole is the best mafia author. This whole world he has created with all these characters, I love it so much. No one else compares.
One of the best thing about a Jagger Cole book is all the secondary characters. I really want all of them to have books of their own. Luckily most of them do. Plus the way he teases some of these characters getting their own books is so clever.
I really loved Lyra and Carmine together. For Carmine being without emotions he sure fell hard for Lyra. Lyra was strong as heck no matter what was thrown her way she came out even stronger. Nothing was gonna stop her.
Carmine became an absolute beast when Lyra was put in danger he did burn the world down for her and I was loving every second of it.
I loved every time we got some Black Court moments. I was so intrigued, I wanted to know more especially who the other animals were. I really hope we'll see more of that soon. And don't even get me started on Knightsblood. I need more stories from there.
I really loved this. I'm gonna make it a goal of mine this year, to read more Jagger Cole books.
I loved this book so much. It was absolutely incredible. I enjoyed it from start to finish and not once throughout reading did I think anything other than how much I loved it.
I will be very surprised if this book is not in my top 10 favorites of the year.
In my personal opinion, Jagger Cole is the best mafia author. This whole world he has created with all these characters, I love it so much. No one else compares.
One of the best thing about a Jagger Cole book is all the secondary characters. I really want all of them to have books of their own. Luckily most of them do. Plus the way he teases some of these characters getting their own books is so clever.
I really loved Lyra and Carmine together. For Carmine being without emotions he sure fell hard for Lyra. Lyra was strong as heck no matter what was thrown her way she came out even stronger. Nothing was gonna stop her.
Carmine became an absolute beast when Lyra was put in danger he did burn the world down for her and I was loving every second of it.
I loved every time we got some Black Court moments. I was so intrigued, I wanted to know more especially who the other animals were. I really hope we'll see more of that soon. And don't even get me started on Knightsblood. I need more stories from there.
I really loved this. I'm gonna make it a goal of mine this year, to read more Jagger Cole books.
April 3, 2025
No sé si me gustó mucho o lo odie, pero que LIBRO tan 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 snsjjsjsjajsjajajs necesito una historia de Disney .
Read
March 13, 2025i was looking forward to this but it has yet another virgin fmc and manho mmc microtrope
"I’ve never wanted anything serious. Not women, not relationships, not any of the shit that makes men go soft.
I’ve had women—plenty of them. More than I can count. Some hung around longer than others. Some played the part of the doting girlfriend before they realized I wasn’t built for love, or romance, or happily ever after.
But they were all just temporary distractions."
"I’ve never wanted anything serious. Not women, not relationships, not any of the shit that makes men go soft.
I’ve had women—plenty of them. More than I can count. Some hung around longer than others. Some played the part of the doting girlfriend before they realized I wasn’t built for love, or romance, or happily ever after.
But they were all just temporary distractions."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2025
I mean are we surprised that this wasn't going to be anything other than 5 stars?.....
when jagger announced that he was going to dive into secret society I was excited because he has not done that yet and obviously it did not disappoint. this follows Lyra and Carmine. Lyra is dealing with the fact that she is getting harassed by reporters and families of the victims that her father brutally r*ped, held captive, and murdered. Carmine is part of a secret society that only the five of the members know about. They are judge, jury, and executioner of those who are disloyal. They are called the Black Court and people are getting wind of their society and what they do and are trying to do. Carmine's dad has a heart attack and nearly almost dies so he decides to step down which puts Carmine at the head of the Italian mafia. He needs a wife so he holds meetings for potential wives and who happens to be there? Lyra shows up because she finds out that he is going to pay $1M for whoever marries him and she needs that money fast considering she has to pay off a debt that her father has. She ends up marrying him.
Lyra has a very dark backstory. Probably one of the darkest backstories that Jagger has ever written. She is the daughter of a psycho man and her whole life has been a lie. After seeing what her dad does she has struggled to keep the darkness at bay. Any time that she seen someone remotely close to what she saw in that basement she passes out. That changed the moment she met Carmine. Carmine helped her when it came to the darkness and he did not see her anything other than perfect. Carmine has known that he was different. His father knew it and he helped him harness it where he was able to control it. He always knew that he was not able to feel emotions like other people. He always had to be in control. Lyra needs that control which is why they work but he has never felt anything remotely close to emotion until he met Lyra.
This was so good. If you want an obsessive/possessive MMC who will literally k*ll for his woman Carmine is that. The secrety society aspect really was unique to read as well. I am excited to see who else is part of the Black Court and how the secret society works. The way that Carmine will literally do anything for Lyra and he also has cameras installed everywhere she is... This was not as spicy as what Jagger normally writes but I liked it nonetheless because the story and the plot were so interesting. I was heavily invested in where the plot was going and when the plot twist happened I was at the edge of my seat. Jagger never ceases to amaze me and I can't wait o see where the series goes.
tropes:
- anti-hero
- forced marriage
- BDSM
- boy obsessed
- enemies-to-lovers
- grumpyxsunshine
- masked men
- secret society
- opposites attract
- jealous/possessive
5 �
when jagger announced that he was going to dive into secret society I was excited because he has not done that yet and obviously it did not disappoint. this follows Lyra and Carmine. Lyra is dealing with the fact that she is getting harassed by reporters and families of the victims that her father brutally r*ped, held captive, and murdered. Carmine is part of a secret society that only the five of the members know about. They are judge, jury, and executioner of those who are disloyal. They are called the Black Court and people are getting wind of their society and what they do and are trying to do. Carmine's dad has a heart attack and nearly almost dies so he decides to step down which puts Carmine at the head of the Italian mafia. He needs a wife so he holds meetings for potential wives and who happens to be there? Lyra shows up because she finds out that he is going to pay $1M for whoever marries him and she needs that money fast considering she has to pay off a debt that her father has. She ends up marrying him.
Lyra has a very dark backstory. Probably one of the darkest backstories that Jagger has ever written. She is the daughter of a psycho man and her whole life has been a lie. After seeing what her dad does she has struggled to keep the darkness at bay. Any time that she seen someone remotely close to what she saw in that basement she passes out. That changed the moment she met Carmine. Carmine helped her when it came to the darkness and he did not see her anything other than perfect. Carmine has known that he was different. His father knew it and he helped him harness it where he was able to control it. He always knew that he was not able to feel emotions like other people. He always had to be in control. Lyra needs that control which is why they work but he has never felt anything remotely close to emotion until he met Lyra.
This was so good. If you want an obsessive/possessive MMC who will literally k*ll for his woman Carmine is that. The secrety society aspect really was unique to read as well. I am excited to see who else is part of the Black Court and how the secret society works. The way that Carmine will literally do anything for Lyra and he also has cameras installed everywhere she is... This was not as spicy as what Jagger normally writes but I liked it nonetheless because the story and the plot were so interesting. I was heavily invested in where the plot was going and when the plot twist happened I was at the edge of my seat. Jagger never ceases to amaze me and I can't wait o see where the series goes.
tropes:
- anti-hero
- forced marriage
- BDSM
- boy obsessed
- enemies-to-lovers
- grumpyxsunshine
- masked men
- secret society
- opposites attract
- jealous/possessive
5 �
March 9, 2025
4.25⭐️
[arc review]
whew that was HOT 🥵
jagger cole just does it so well. idk how but every single book i’ve read by him is like crack. i’ve said that before and i’ll say it over and over because he’s just that good.
ngl i forgot i’ve read bianca and kratos� story in the venomous gods series but it was nice to see them again in this book, since bianca and carmine are siblings. lyra is a little clueless about the new york mafia world mostly because she doesn’t indulge in the gossip between the ballet girlies but bianca is the one that gives her the most support after her wedding.
lyra comes from an extremely dark past. she has an alcoholic mother and a father that has done unspeakable things to teenage girls. the poor girl is traumatized and has lived through enough for two lifetimes. my heart broke for her because it seemed that no matter where she went, it seemed like she could never move on from her past and she was constantly getting dragged backward while trying to move forward.
carmine believes he’s a monster that has no possibility of redemption. he’s insanely possessive but as vito says, he’s loyal to everyone he calls his own. that teeny tiny soft spot of loyalty for lyra comes out a lot throughout the book. you might have to squint to see it, but it’s there.
i’ve missed the new york mafia drama so i was very excited to find out that this series is taking us back and i’m beyond excited for kir’s book and another one jagger told us about in his fb group 🤭
[arc review]
whew that was HOT 🥵
jagger cole just does it so well. idk how but every single book i’ve read by him is like crack. i’ve said that before and i’ll say it over and over because he’s just that good.
ngl i forgot i’ve read bianca and kratos� story in the venomous gods series but it was nice to see them again in this book, since bianca and carmine are siblings. lyra is a little clueless about the new york mafia world mostly because she doesn’t indulge in the gossip between the ballet girlies but bianca is the one that gives her the most support after her wedding.
lyra comes from an extremely dark past. she has an alcoholic mother and a father that has done unspeakable things to teenage girls. the poor girl is traumatized and has lived through enough for two lifetimes. my heart broke for her because it seemed that no matter where she went, it seemed like she could never move on from her past and she was constantly getting dragged backward while trying to move forward.
carmine believes he’s a monster that has no possibility of redemption. he’s insanely possessive but as vito says, he’s loyal to everyone he calls his own. that teeny tiny soft spot of loyalty for lyra comes out a lot throughout the book. you might have to squint to see it, but it’s there.
i’ve missed the new york mafia drama so i was very excited to find out that this series is taking us back and i’m beyond excited for kir’s book and another one jagger told us about in his fb group 🤭
March 10, 2025
Dance of Deception, the new mafia series by @jaggercoleauthor is available to read on 03/13.
ARC REVIEW
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶�
The Hound, The Bull, The Stag, The Wolf and The Raven oh my🙊WOW!! Jagger once again knocks it out of the park with this new mafia series The Darkest Dance🩰!! You meet some old characters and are introduced to new ones.
1st book in this series is about Carmine and Lyra. When I tell you, I thought Gabriel, Cillian, and Deimos were dark, they walked so Carmine could run!! He’s TOPS the cake so far🥵🥵!! Lyra is absolutely a beautiful character. I loved the way Jagger paired these 2 together. They definitely balance each other out. I’m feeling this new world Jagger is introducing us too! It’s dark, mysterious and I can’t WAIT to dive deeper into it! And let’s forget the PLOT TWISTS!! Jagger’s ability to throw your ass for a loop should not go unnoticed!! I’m ALWAYS jaw dropped when shit hits the fan and I’m throw in a WHOLE different direction!! This book has everything and more! Primal fear, the hunt, dark desires and dark secrets and so much more. The chemistry between these was electric 🔥🫠!! As always, please check your triggers. This book is darkkk.
Blurb:
He knows what I saw. Now he owns me.
Carmine Barone is a monster no one sees but me.
A beautiful villain with a cold, black heart and a body honed for violence.
But when I stumble into a world I was never meant to see, the ruthless mafia heir becomes something else, too:
My husband.
Now, I’m trapped in a forced marriage to a man who hunts in darkness.
A man who plays games with lies and deception.
A secret predator who wants to feast on my darkest most immoral desires.
And the only thing worse than being chased by a psychopath?
Wanting him to.
Dance of Deception is a standalone book, and The Darkest Dance series can be read on its own.
However, readers are encouraged to start with the Dark Hearts and Venomous Gods series to get a feel for the larger Jagger Cole bookverse. #jaggercole #darkromance #mafiaromace #bookstagram #valentinepr #jaggerverse
ARC REVIEW
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶�
The Hound, The Bull, The Stag, The Wolf and The Raven oh my🙊WOW!! Jagger once again knocks it out of the park with this new mafia series The Darkest Dance🩰!! You meet some old characters and are introduced to new ones.
1st book in this series is about Carmine and Lyra. When I tell you, I thought Gabriel, Cillian, and Deimos were dark, they walked so Carmine could run!! He’s TOPS the cake so far🥵🥵!! Lyra is absolutely a beautiful character. I loved the way Jagger paired these 2 together. They definitely balance each other out. I’m feeling this new world Jagger is introducing us too! It’s dark, mysterious and I can’t WAIT to dive deeper into it! And let’s forget the PLOT TWISTS!! Jagger’s ability to throw your ass for a loop should not go unnoticed!! I’m ALWAYS jaw dropped when shit hits the fan and I’m throw in a WHOLE different direction!! This book has everything and more! Primal fear, the hunt, dark desires and dark secrets and so much more. The chemistry between these was electric 🔥🫠!! As always, please check your triggers. This book is darkkk.
Blurb:
He knows what I saw. Now he owns me.
Carmine Barone is a monster no one sees but me.
A beautiful villain with a cold, black heart and a body honed for violence.
But when I stumble into a world I was never meant to see, the ruthless mafia heir becomes something else, too:
My husband.
Now, I’m trapped in a forced marriage to a man who hunts in darkness.
A man who plays games with lies and deception.
A secret predator who wants to feast on my darkest most immoral desires.
And the only thing worse than being chased by a psychopath?
Wanting him to.
Dance of Deception is a standalone book, and The Darkest Dance series can be read on its own.
However, readers are encouraged to start with the Dark Hearts and Venomous Gods series to get a feel for the larger Jagger Cole bookverse. #jaggercole #darkromance #mafiaromace #bookstagram #valentinepr #jaggerverse
March 31, 2025
4/5
Dance of Deception is the latest series by Jagger Cole, and just like his earlier books, this one is absolutely addictive! This series shares a lot of connections with the Venomous Gods series, and I enjoyed that overlap immensely. Bianca and Kratos are definitely my favorite couple in this universe, and I savored every moment they appeared in.
However, Lyra and Carmine are just as compelling! Lyra has just finished her ballet practice and is the last to leave the studio. As she exits, she overhears Carmine Barone speaking about business with some men. She attempts to hide in the shadows, but his darkness is much deeper, and he immediately senses her presence. Once his conversation ends, he approaches her with a menacing step. Lyra, though frightened, is drawn to him in an almost magnetic way.
When she returns home, she’s forced to confront her drunk, abusive mother, who accuses her of causing her father's death. Her mother’s cruel words stir up the painful memories of her past. Lyra has endured unimaginable trauma, as her father was a brutal man responsible for heinous acts. The family is in desperate need of money, and Lyra is determined to do whatever it takes to settle her father’s debts.
As the situation worsens, Lyra finds herself witnessing things she shouldn't. A masked figure begins hunting her, and the only way out of this dangerous situation is to marry Carmine and claim the money he promises to his future wife.
As Lyra spends more time with Carmine, she begins to notice the full extent of his darkness. But rather than being afraid, she finds it healing. They both are so good together and I loved them! I’m excited for next book 🥹🤭🤭
Dance of Deception is the latest series by Jagger Cole, and just like his earlier books, this one is absolutely addictive! This series shares a lot of connections with the Venomous Gods series, and I enjoyed that overlap immensely. Bianca and Kratos are definitely my favorite couple in this universe, and I savored every moment they appeared in.
However, Lyra and Carmine are just as compelling! Lyra has just finished her ballet practice and is the last to leave the studio. As she exits, she overhears Carmine Barone speaking about business with some men. She attempts to hide in the shadows, but his darkness is much deeper, and he immediately senses her presence. Once his conversation ends, he approaches her with a menacing step. Lyra, though frightened, is drawn to him in an almost magnetic way.
When she returns home, she’s forced to confront her drunk, abusive mother, who accuses her of causing her father's death. Her mother’s cruel words stir up the painful memories of her past. Lyra has endured unimaginable trauma, as her father was a brutal man responsible for heinous acts. The family is in desperate need of money, and Lyra is determined to do whatever it takes to settle her father’s debts.
As the situation worsens, Lyra finds herself witnessing things she shouldn't. A masked figure begins hunting her, and the only way out of this dangerous situation is to marry Carmine and claim the money he promises to his future wife.
As Lyra spends more time with Carmine, she begins to notice the full extent of his darkness. But rather than being afraid, she finds it healing. They both are so good together and I loved them! I’m excited for next book 🥹🤭🤭
March 9, 2025
Thank you so much Valentine PR for giving me this ARC in exchange of an honest review!
Actual rating 4.25 ⭐️
I feel like there isn't a reading slump that mafia romance can't cure!!! This was my first Jagger Cole book and it was so fucking good.
I loved Lyra. Her past was so traumatizing, but she was extremely strong throughout this book!!! I loved that she was a ballerina and every scene with her practicing and with her friends was incredible.
Carmine was sooo hot and obsessed with Lyra. There is nothing better than "My wife" moments and this book had plenty!!!
The romance was really good but what I loved most was the spice!!! It was sooo hot that I literally had to take a break and go outside during one scene.
One thing I wasn't a fan of was the miscommunication... but it resolved pretty quickly so that was good.
I can't wait for the next book in the series!!!
Actual rating 4.25 ⭐️
I feel like there isn't a reading slump that mafia romance can't cure!!! This was my first Jagger Cole book and it was so fucking good.
I loved Lyra. Her past was so traumatizing, but she was extremely strong throughout this book!!! I loved that she was a ballerina and every scene with her practicing and with her friends was incredible.
Carmine was sooo hot and obsessed with Lyra. There is nothing better than "My wife" moments and this book had plenty!!!
The romance was really good but what I loved most was the spice!!! It was sooo hot that I literally had to take a break and go outside during one scene.
One thing I wasn't a fan of was the miscommunication... but it resolved pretty quickly so that was good.
I can't wait for the next book in the series!!!
March 17, 2025
Another absolute banger from Jagger!! Carmine and Lyra were so delicious and the plot had me glued to my seat at all times. Carmine’s darkness and possessiveness was hot hot hot and I love that Lyra stood her own. The secrecy of the Black Court has me so intrigued and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
.
.
.
Thank you to Valentine PR for the arc opportunity!
.
.
.
Thank you to Valentine PR for the arc opportunity!
March 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 my god jagger Cole has done it again. I’m obsessed. This new series. Interconnected worlds omg. New dark and twisted mmcs YES PLEASE
carmine oh god I love him
“I’ll light the fucking world on fire for you, little dancer,�
“You’re my wife. Everything about you fucking matters to me.�
carmine oh god I love him
“I’ll light the fucking world on fire for you, little dancer,�
“You’re my wife. Everything about you fucking matters to me.�
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶�
This is my book that I read from Jagger Cole and I gotta say, I was really surprised! Carmine is so unhinged and I love it. The primal play, the sweet words, the spice? *chef’s kiss* Lyra, you precious girl. You deserve the world 😭 she’s been through so much, the trauma she endured for so long made my heart ache. All the plot twists and suspense had me hooked!! I can’t wait to read more from this author!
Thank you Jagger Cole and Valentine PR for the ARC 😍
🌶️🌶️🌶�
This is my book that I read from Jagger Cole and I gotta say, I was really surprised! Carmine is so unhinged and I love it. The primal play, the sweet words, the spice? *chef’s kiss* Lyra, you precious girl. You deserve the world 😭 she’s been through so much, the trauma she endured for so long made my heart ache. All the plot twists and suspense had me hooked!! I can’t wait to read more from this author!
Thank you Jagger Cole and Valentine PR for the ARC 😍
March 27, 2025
First jagger cole book. Wild ride. 4.5 stars
March 28, 2025
3.5⭐️ I've read over fifteen Cole books, and I was expecting more. Now, I think there is a pattern.
Jagger is one of my favourite authors, so I'm waiting for the next one, hope it was better.
Jagger is one of my favourite authors, so I'm waiting for the next one, hope it was better.
March 14, 2025
I’m obsessed with this author!!! He can do no wrong and his writing…chef’s kiss. Carmine and Lyra were absolutely perfection. Carmine is dark and completely unhinged. Lyra is a ballerina with a dark past. That’s why Carmine and Lyra complement each other so well. I won’t give any more away, but I can’t wait for you to read this book!!
March 15, 2025
Something about the chemistry in this felt stale. I didn’t hate it necessarily but it felt redundant—a combo of Poisonous Kiss, Deviant Hearts, and Vicious Hearts all by this author mixed with a secret society plot line that felt underdeveloped and pompous.
March 25, 2025
Another deliciously dark and spicy mafia read from Jagger!
- dark mafia
- she’s a ballerina
- arranged marriage
- enemies to lovers
- obsessed MMC
- primal/cnc
Carmine was such a surprise to me and I ended up loving him so much! His obsession with Lyra was one of my favorite things and the spice in true Jagger fashion was nothing short of HOT
Highly recommend this book and can’t wait for more in the series!
- dark mafia
- she’s a ballerina
- arranged marriage
- enemies to lovers
- obsessed MMC
- primal/cnc
Carmine was such a surprise to me and I ended up loving him so much! His obsession with Lyra was one of my favorite things and the spice in true Jagger fashion was nothing short of HOT
Highly recommend this book and can’t wait for more in the series!
March 24, 2025
Ate it up. Left no crumbs. This was my first jagger Cole book and it definitely will not be my last. I truly enjoyed the writing style and the storyline. I was hooked from the beginning and read this book in about two days.
March 14, 2025
basic. read the same story 8584748 times but it was okay!
March 15, 2025
I’ve really enjoyed this author’s previous books, so I had high hopes for this one � but unfortunately, it felt like a recycled version of the earlier stories. This is exactly why I skipped the last series, and it seems the formula hasn’t changed.
The MMC was supposed to be a psychopath, but instead of coming across as dark and intense, he felt like he was trying too hard to fit that image. Meanwhile, the FMC and MMC both lacked depth, making it hard to feel connected to their story. And the so-called “forced marriage� trope? That was a stretch. The FMC blackmailed him into marrying her, the MMC had his own reasons for agreeing, and when Kir asked the FMC if she was being forced and wanted to leave, she said no. That’s not forced � that’s just a complicated arrangement.
The chemistry between the leads was practically nonexistent. The FMC had to use sex as leverage just to get the MMC to take her on a date, which didn’t feel romantic � more transactional. And the repeated use of the same chasing kink is starting to feel overdone. It’s hard to stay invested when the dynamics feel so familiar.
The virgin FMC trope was already a bit outdated, but it was made worse by how often the MMC reminded us of how many women he’d been with before her. The line about wanting to “taste her virgin blood mixed with cum� was especially off-putting � that took things way too far. If the story needs a virgin FMC (and honestly, does it?), can we at least avoid making the MMC a serial womanizer? The imbalance is hard to overlook.
The only reason I pushed through was because the author usually delivers strong plot twists, and that part didn’t disappoint. But the romance itself felt flat, and I hope the next book brings something fresh � maybe a new dynamic and leads with real chemistry.
The MMC was supposed to be a psychopath, but instead of coming across as dark and intense, he felt like he was trying too hard to fit that image. Meanwhile, the FMC and MMC both lacked depth, making it hard to feel connected to their story. And the so-called “forced marriage� trope? That was a stretch. The FMC blackmailed him into marrying her, the MMC had his own reasons for agreeing, and when Kir asked the FMC if she was being forced and wanted to leave, she said no. That’s not forced � that’s just a complicated arrangement.
The chemistry between the leads was practically nonexistent. The FMC had to use sex as leverage just to get the MMC to take her on a date, which didn’t feel romantic � more transactional. And the repeated use of the same chasing kink is starting to feel overdone. It’s hard to stay invested when the dynamics feel so familiar.
The virgin FMC trope was already a bit outdated, but it was made worse by how often the MMC reminded us of how many women he’d been with before her. The line about wanting to “taste her virgin blood mixed with cum� was especially off-putting � that took things way too far. If the story needs a virgin FMC (and honestly, does it?), can we at least avoid making the MMC a serial womanizer? The imbalance is hard to overlook.
The only reason I pushed through was because the author usually delivers strong plot twists, and that part didn’t disappoint. But the romance itself felt flat, and I hope the next book brings something fresh � maybe a new dynamic and leads with real chemistry.
Read
March 9, 2025If you like dark romance, this if for you! This has elements of BDSM, including CNC, somnophilia, and primal play (probably more in forgetting).
I personally was not a huge fan of this book but I do think if this is your vibe you’d love it. I just don’t know if this is my vibe exactly. It’s been very hit or miss for me with dark romance lately.
Lyra is a ballet dancer is a really dark and tragic past whom gets “forced� to marry the mafia don, Carmine, who is a possessive OTT, “don’t touch my wife� MMC. This book honestly felt really short despite it being 400+ pages which is always a good thing to me because I was flying through the story.
A little spoiler I guess. For me I guess the only thing was the lack of a safe word. They do discuss briefly as in like a singular paragraph about the lack of a safe word but yeah I was a little taken back by this. Also, there’s just some scenes that were a little too intense when the MMC is trying to make the FMC overcome her fears…was not a fan of that at all.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and the writing is really good and the story is engaging, but I just don’t think this particular book was my taste. The characters didn’t have enough chemistry for me but maybe I’m being dramatic and I just couldn’t feel like “love.� It does and in a HEA so that’s great lol.
I received an ARC from Valentine PR and these are my honest opinions. Thank you so much for allowing me to receive an ARC of this book!
I personally was not a huge fan of this book but I do think if this is your vibe you’d love it. I just don’t know if this is my vibe exactly. It’s been very hit or miss for me with dark romance lately.
Lyra is a ballet dancer is a really dark and tragic past whom gets “forced� to marry the mafia don, Carmine, who is a possessive OTT, “don’t touch my wife� MMC. This book honestly felt really short despite it being 400+ pages which is always a good thing to me because I was flying through the story.
A little spoiler I guess. For me I guess the only thing was the lack of a safe word. They do discuss briefly as in like a singular paragraph about the lack of a safe word but yeah I was a little taken back by this. Also, there’s just some scenes that were a little too intense when the MMC is trying to make the FMC overcome her fears…was not a fan of that at all.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and the writing is really good and the story is engaging, but I just don’t think this particular book was my taste. The characters didn’t have enough chemistry for me but maybe I’m being dramatic and I just couldn’t feel like “love.� It does and in a HEA so that’s great lol.
I received an ARC from Valentine PR and these are my honest opinions. Thank you so much for allowing me to receive an ARC of this book!
March 18, 2025
My Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️.25
In Short: Decadently dark and spicy. Everything dark romance should be.
Memorable Lines:
~"I'll light the f'in world on fire for you, little dancer."
~It's beautiful. We're beautiful. It's a f-ed up, dark, broken and twisted beauty."
General Thoughts: Jagger Cole is an auto-read author for me. I love his books. They are decadently dark and spicy and everything dark mafia romance should be. The second quote describes his books well--f'ed up but beautiful. I know when I read Jagger Cole that I'm about to binge-read an amazing book every time. And that's what happened here, too. I have yet to read a book of his that I haven't loved. He never misses. I love how he crafts his characters and books. I've read a lot of his books at this point, and I'm still loving all of them. At this point, I'm not sure he can miss.
This one felt different than some of his others. I can't put a pin on it, but it seemed to follow a different formula than some of his other books, but I still loved it. He's set up a interesting premise and world for this series, and I can't wait to read more. I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you, Valentine PR.
Spice Meter: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️� It was definitely spicy.
Romantic Tropes
-dual POV
-dark mafia
-contemporary
-romantic suspense
-forced/arranged marriage
-forced/close proximity
-morally grey MMC
-masked man
-check your triggers
You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
In Short: Decadently dark and spicy. Everything dark romance should be.
Memorable Lines:
~"I'll light the f'in world on fire for you, little dancer."
~It's beautiful. We're beautiful. It's a f-ed up, dark, broken and twisted beauty."
General Thoughts: Jagger Cole is an auto-read author for me. I love his books. They are decadently dark and spicy and everything dark mafia romance should be. The second quote describes his books well--f'ed up but beautiful. I know when I read Jagger Cole that I'm about to binge-read an amazing book every time. And that's what happened here, too. I have yet to read a book of his that I haven't loved. He never misses. I love how he crafts his characters and books. I've read a lot of his books at this point, and I'm still loving all of them. At this point, I'm not sure he can miss.
This one felt different than some of his others. I can't put a pin on it, but it seemed to follow a different formula than some of his other books, but I still loved it. He's set up a interesting premise and world for this series, and I can't wait to read more. I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you, Valentine PR.
Spice Meter: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️� It was definitely spicy.
Romantic Tropes
-dual POV
-dark mafia
-contemporary
-romantic suspense
-forced/arranged marriage
-forced/close proximity
-morally grey MMC
-masked man
-check your triggers
You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 406 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.