What do you think?
Rate this book
The Sovranos #1
Mafia King
"You may call me Lord or Master..."
Michael Byron Domenico Sovrano
Lord of the underworld.
Master of all the criminal masterminds who ever crawled the underbelly of Sicily's notorious mafia company.
aka my captor...
Who just happens to be hot, snarly, and with a demanding manner that dampens my panties, gulp!
My father owed him, so he took me as payment.
He gets what he wants,
And I am his new obsession.
To take. To break.
As if, I'll let him?
He's out to destroy me, but I'll go toe to toe with him every step of the way...
I'll do everything to make him fall for me.
Then he springs the ultimate surprise
And I realize the joke's on me...
Note: This is book 1 in Michael Byron and Karma's story. A dark billionaire arranged marriage mafia romance with intense emotional scenes.
Michael Byron Domenico Sovrano
Lord of the underworld.
Master of all the criminal masterminds who ever crawled the underbelly of Sicily's notorious mafia company.
aka my captor...
Who just happens to be hot, snarly, and with a demanding manner that dampens my panties, gulp!
My father owed him, so he took me as payment.
He gets what he wants,
And I am his new obsession.
To take. To break.
As if, I'll let him?
He's out to destroy me, but I'll go toe to toe with him every step of the way...
I'll do everything to make him fall for me.
Then he springs the ultimate surprise
And I realize the joke's on me...
Note: This is book 1 in Michael Byron and Karma's story. A dark billionaire arranged marriage mafia romance with intense emotional scenes.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2021
About the author
L. Steele
33 books1,787 followersL. Steele loves to write romance novels featuring powerful men and strong women who bring them to their knees. When she's not writing she enjoys trading trivia with her filmmaker husband, watching lots and lots of movies, and walking nature trails.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 429 reviews
November 21, 2021
1⭐️
i read this because i heard there was knife play. i was fucking fooled the whole scene was written in 1 page and i've never been more disappointed.
the writing is so annoying and the characters are unbearable. i can't this was the worst experience of my life. will never pick up the next books.
i read this because i heard there was knife play. i was fucking fooled the whole scene was written in 1 page and i've never been more disappointed.
the writing is so annoying and the characters are unbearable. i can't this was the worst experience of my life. will never pick up the next books.
August 11, 2021
Disappointed...
This is my favorite author...just can't believe how silly and childish the female lead was. This is not the quality of writing I have come to expect from this author. To many things wrong with the story line. I won't bother to read the second book.
This is my favorite author...just can't believe how silly and childish the female lead was. This is not the quality of writing I have come to expect from this author. To many things wrong with the story line. I won't bother to read the second book.
March 24, 2022
I regret reading this book.
Everything in this is so bad (writting, plot is all over the place, characters), I think I have read wattpad stories written better than this.
Everything in this is so bad (writting, plot is all over the place, characters), I think I have read wattpad stories written better than this.
November 2, 2021
I’m sorry I just couldn’t enjoy this….Not only did it take some things from 365 DNI (days) (I.E. the BJ on the plane with another woman, h’s heart condition, etc), the h and H were just too stubborn and bullheaded. I can’t handle H being intimate with other women especially in front of h (not my cup of tea) H being completely indecisive (hot and cold constantly with h), takes her V card with the blunt end of a knife, tells her he was initially going to kill her until he heard her quote some poem, constantly leaving her unfulfilled sexually, and doing sex acts with other women, but wants to be sweet and loving after forcing h to marry him?! Also, that ending…. Really? It’s like both main characters rejects to have any kind of relationship with the another romantically. The h and H both do some horrid stuff to each other. I just can’t….this is one series I can’t finish. More power to those who love these reads though. I love mafia and dark romance stories, but not where h and H are both too toxic and stubborn.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2021
kidnapped, arranged marriage, what could possible for wrong?
a lot, apparently.
this usually isn’t my type of book but it was really entertaining. other than the fact that “OMG” was used, the the plot was all over the place, and that the fmc was really stupid sometimes, it was a captivating read. and that ending?? you’ve got to be kidding me, i’m so mad.
a lot, apparently.
this usually isn’t my type of book but it was really entertaining. other than the fact that “OMG” was used, the the plot was all over the place, and that the fmc was really stupid sometimes, it was a captivating read. and that ending?? you’ve got to be kidding me, i’m so mad.
August 12, 2021
Bratty, thoughtless teenage “heroine” killed the story with her constant state of being horny and her childish actions.
April 13, 2022
⭐️ one star -
This is yet another book I picked up this week where I quickly remembered I had already read it 😂🤦♀️ I need to start reviewing everything I read so that this doesn’t happen again. Oh, well 💁♀️
Well, not only did I quickly remember that I read it already, but I quickly deciphered that I had skimmed this, and borderline hated it.
This is going to sound completely contrary, but I do mostly like L Steele, HOWEVER - this may go down as the worst mafia romance book I’ve ever read… How is that possible? Well, Steele is a decent writer mostly, I was entertained… but there is a BIG BUT about to come out here: this story is a complete train wreck. The plot (or lack thereof) kills the writing. Does that make sense to anyone out there? That’s the only way to sum it up.
The story here is like a crash you can’t look away from; you just don’t know what these two highly toxic, entirely unlikable mc’s are going to do next, and that’s what glues you here; sheer morbid, erotic magnetism. I think, which is due to the writing skill.
And here comes another BIG HOWEVER - the ott, toxic mc’s, the lack of attention to detail in the story (misplaced clothing details, placement of characters, etc), overuse of cheese-factor expressions, the frat boy vibe of the supporting male cast - I just hated all of that.
Now, since I know I read this already, I also know that I skimmed the next book, part II, but I’m not even going to bother reviewing that one. The h here is completely unredeemable (I must’ve skipped the ending here on the first go round), and I absolutely hated her at the ending. She’s awful, and frankly I don’t want to read her story 💁♀️
This book should’ve been a slam dunk for me:
mafia ✔️
arranged marriage ✔️
enemies to lovers ✔️
It checks all the boxes for me, but it falls flat on its face. Severely disappointed 😢
And while I’m at it (lol), the “enemies to lovers” is a complete misnomer here. It’s more “mutual hatred fuels hate sex” - and sometimes not even with the mc - just nasty.
One save yourself star. I will try Steele again, as I do like her style (somewhat), but I’m not willing to sit through this kind of garbage again. Read the one and two star reviews before reading - that’s what I plan on doing anyway.
This is yet another book I picked up this week where I quickly remembered I had already read it 😂🤦♀️ I need to start reviewing everything I read so that this doesn’t happen again. Oh, well 💁♀️
Well, not only did I quickly remember that I read it already, but I quickly deciphered that I had skimmed this, and borderline hated it.
This is going to sound completely contrary, but I do mostly like L Steele, HOWEVER - this may go down as the worst mafia romance book I’ve ever read… How is that possible? Well, Steele is a decent writer mostly, I was entertained… but there is a BIG BUT about to come out here: this story is a complete train wreck. The plot (or lack thereof) kills the writing. Does that make sense to anyone out there? That’s the only way to sum it up.
The story here is like a crash you can’t look away from; you just don’t know what these two highly toxic, entirely unlikable mc’s are going to do next, and that’s what glues you here; sheer morbid, erotic magnetism. I think, which is due to the writing skill.
And here comes another BIG HOWEVER - the ott, toxic mc’s, the lack of attention to detail in the story (misplaced clothing details, placement of characters, etc), overuse of cheese-factor expressions, the frat boy vibe of the supporting male cast - I just hated all of that.
Now, since I know I read this already, I also know that I skimmed the next book, part II, but I’m not even going to bother reviewing that one. The h here is completely unredeemable (I must’ve skipped the ending here on the first go round), and I absolutely hated her at the ending. She’s awful, and frankly I don’t want to read her story 💁♀️
This book should’ve been a slam dunk for me:
mafia ✔️
arranged marriage ✔️
enemies to lovers ✔️
It checks all the boxes for me, but it falls flat on its face. Severely disappointed 😢
And while I’m at it (lol), the “enemies to lovers” is a complete misnomer here. It’s more “mutual hatred fuels hate sex” - and sometimes not even with the mc - just nasty.
One save yourself star. I will try Steele again, as I do like her style (somewhat), but I’m not willing to sit through this kind of garbage again. Read the one and two star reviews before reading - that’s what I plan on doing anyway.
December 13, 2021
This was terrible. I could possibly like the H (minus the knife handle sex) but the h is stupid. Just an awful, dumb, TSTL child.
I’m not reading the rest of the series and since the author already has a 9 book series under her belt, I’m going to guess her previous writing isn’t an improvement as it’s older…to the avoid list we go.
I’m not reading the rest of the series and since the author already has a 9 book series under her belt, I’m going to guess her previous writing isn’t an improvement as it’s older…to the avoid list we go.
July 30, 2021
Mafia King (Arranged Marriage #1) A dark billionaire arranged marriage mafia romance. Oh my stars and garters, pure perfection with a splash of roses and thorns. I absolutely loved this beauteous book even though it's a very different read than this author normally writes. The writing style is captivating and high caliber. Intricately bleeding through the pages is unexpected twists that leave you cool as cucumber. Michael Byron Domenico Sovrano, Lord of the Underworld, and Karma's story isn’t all sweetness and light, heaps of darker tone moments seep through the pages. This ends in a cliffhanger that will leave fire in the belly.
July 30, 2021
Yes then no
Some reviewers said they liked Michael better than any of the Seven. Are you kidding, Michael shoots a priest! Who does that?
Some reviewers said they liked Michael better than any of the Seven. Are you kidding, Michael shoots a priest! Who does that?
March 22, 2022
I didn’t care for this series which includes Mafia King, Mafia Queen, Mafia War. (M/f, monogamy, age gap, Dom/sub play, spice 3.5/5).
In my opinion, the writing was weak and there was nothing special or interesting about the story. I’ve read this same story many times, but with better writing, better character development and better erotic scenes.
The author annoyed me with the over use of terms like “alphahole”. The mafia brothers who were all born, raised and reside in Sicily speak English the whole time, but use the same Italian insults over and over interjected within their English sentences- it just didn’t work for me. The story was not unique and held a lot of holes in it. I couldn’t stand the FMC who was, at times, a spoiled entitled brat who lacked personality.
To be honest, I could spent a whole lot more time breaking down every example of poor writing in these three books. I started off by jotting down all my complaints, but got to the point that I just couldn’t be bothered because there was too many so I erased them all and decided to keep it simple. The series is very mediocre at best. If you have read these books, feel free to tell me if you agree or not. I’m going to read the next 2 books which are about 2 different couples and I will let you know of they get any better, but I can’t say I have much hope.
In my opinion, the writing was weak and there was nothing special or interesting about the story. I’ve read this same story many times, but with better writing, better character development and better erotic scenes.
The author annoyed me with the over use of terms like “alphahole”. The mafia brothers who were all born, raised and reside in Sicily speak English the whole time, but use the same Italian insults over and over interjected within their English sentences- it just didn’t work for me. The story was not unique and held a lot of holes in it. I couldn’t stand the FMC who was, at times, a spoiled entitled brat who lacked personality.
To be honest, I could spent a whole lot more time breaking down every example of poor writing in these three books. I started off by jotting down all my complaints, but got to the point that I just couldn’t be bothered because there was too many so I erased them all and decided to keep it simple. The series is very mediocre at best. If you have read these books, feel free to tell me if you agree or not. I’m going to read the next 2 books which are about 2 different couples and I will let you know of they get any better, but I can’t say I have much hope.
November 28, 2021
I HATE THE ENDING IM LITERALLY SO HURT FOR MICHEAL
This was bad but good i don’t know how to explain it, it’s just captivating
This was bad but good i don’t know how to explain it, it’s just captivating
March 16, 2022
This was my first L. Steele audiobook and I have no words. The story was captivating, but also a bit ridiculous. I can’t find the right words to describe. I have mixed feelings because I didn't fall in love with this story or characters, but there was still something about it that made me want to listen to see how this story went. I will say Micheal was biggest Alphahole jerk I’ve read in awhile. I hate him for most of the story, but in the end I started to like him a little and then boom, cliffhanger!?!
I totally didn’t see that twist coming! Jason Clarke & Roxy Isles narrate this story. Jason Clarke was brilliant as Micheal, and his growly deep voice was perfect to bring this mafia Capo to life. Roxy Isles is a new to me narrator and overall she did a good job. She definitely sounded the way I thought Karma would sound. If you like, dark mafia romance, arrange marriage, and steamy scenes, then this is the book for you.
I totally didn’t see that twist coming! Jason Clarke & Roxy Isles narrate this story. Jason Clarke was brilliant as Micheal, and his growly deep voice was perfect to bring this mafia Capo to life. Roxy Isles is a new to me narrator and overall she did a good job. She definitely sounded the way I thought Karma would sound. If you like, dark mafia romance, arrange marriage, and steamy scenes, then this is the book for you.
August 11, 2021
In this story Michael meets his intended, Karma, who is forced to marry him as part of a retribution and his becoming capo. Despite an intriguing prequel, I could not connect with this story, almost as if I was missing other parts. Stylistically the story was slow to progress, lots of unnecessary detail. Michael was not a dark alpha characteristically, and Karma was unbelievably, untenably feisty. Expecting dark, I found the events mild by my standards. The premise of the story was good, however, but simply not the book for me.
December 21, 2022
What's with the H yawning frequently?!? Every time he feigns boredom, he yawns 🥱. And for a person with a heart condition, the h wasn't acting like it 😐. She was super cool when she stabbed the H at the altar on her wedding day and hit him with the oars at the end to escape from him. Neither was she affected when she almost fell off the cliff at the beginning 🤔. Hmmm...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2022
This is the cringiest book I have ever read. She eats pasta with a spoon? She is not like other girls because she doesn’t like pink? And there was literally a line where Michael “tipped his invisible hat” he actually m’ladied? I threwded up.
August 1, 2021
L. Steele's latest book Mafia King (Arranged Marriages 1) takes us into , yes, you guessed it, Mafia territory and into the dark side of romance!
If you're familiar with her books , then you are already aware of the connection of the Big Billionaire series and the Mafia.
This is the first in the story of Michael and Karma, (Summer's younger sister).
Expecting the usual hot and mega steamy scenes, well, this book ramps it up even further into the dark depths of both Michael and Karma.
Michael Byron Domenico Sovrano , being the Capo of his Clan, trying to exact revenge, is immediately drawn into the illusive and mysterious Karma.
After he kidnaps her , immediately the tension is rising and the chemistry boiling over!
Karma, hiding her true darkness, feels an immediate tug towards the growly and extremely Alpha Michael.
Even though he kidnaps her, she cannot ignore the attraction.
For someone Karma's age, she's going toe to toe with Michael, something not to be taken on lightly!
In true style, L. Steele has crafted a masterpiece of 2 dark souls who find themselves drawn to each other and their struggles to come to terms with their feelings for each other and exploring the darker side of each other.
The age gap in this book really does not distract at all from this great book! It actually enhances it!
The characters are very well developed, extremely interesting and have a depth that needs further exploring!
From the first line to the cliffhanger at the end, this book had me on the edge of a knife, or 2. It's really well written and the storyline keeps you wanting for more!
Cannot wait to find out more about Michael's siblings and the unfolding story!
Well done!!!!
If you're familiar with her books , then you are already aware of the connection of the Big Billionaire series and the Mafia.
This is the first in the story of Michael and Karma, (Summer's younger sister).
Expecting the usual hot and mega steamy scenes, well, this book ramps it up even further into the dark depths of both Michael and Karma.
Michael Byron Domenico Sovrano , being the Capo of his Clan, trying to exact revenge, is immediately drawn into the illusive and mysterious Karma.
After he kidnaps her , immediately the tension is rising and the chemistry boiling over!
Karma, hiding her true darkness, feels an immediate tug towards the growly and extremely Alpha Michael.
Even though he kidnaps her, she cannot ignore the attraction.
For someone Karma's age, she's going toe to toe with Michael, something not to be taken on lightly!
In true style, L. Steele has crafted a masterpiece of 2 dark souls who find themselves drawn to each other and their struggles to come to terms with their feelings for each other and exploring the darker side of each other.
The age gap in this book really does not distract at all from this great book! It actually enhances it!
The characters are very well developed, extremely interesting and have a depth that needs further exploring!
From the first line to the cliffhanger at the end, this book had me on the edge of a knife, or 2. It's really well written and the storyline keeps you wanting for more!
Cannot wait to find out more about Michael's siblings and the unfolding story!
Well done!!!!
July 29, 2021
Wowowowowowow!!!!!
L. Steeles take on Mafia has blown me away. Michael and Karmas story is feisty steamy dark and hot!!
I could not put it down each page sucked me in more than the last.
BOW DOWN TO MICHAEL THE RIGHTFUL MAFIA KING!!!🖤
You will be needing to read this in a cold shower. I am so excited for Mafia King!!
Well Done L. STEELE!!!!!!!
L. Steeles take on Mafia has blown me away. Michael and Karmas story is feisty steamy dark and hot!!
I could not put it down each page sucked me in more than the last.
BOW DOWN TO MICHAEL THE RIGHTFUL MAFIA KING!!!🖤
You will be needing to read this in a cold shower. I am so excited for Mafia King!!
Well Done L. STEELE!!!!!!!
August 6, 2021
LS
This book was a complete letdown. The ending sucked.What a waste of my time.I won't be reading the next installment in this series,I have better things to do
This book was a complete letdown. The ending sucked.What a waste of my time.I won't be reading the next installment in this series,I have better things to do
September 1, 2022
Hot, sexy, brutal and violent! Great start to the series!
This is technically Book #1 in L. Steele's Arranged Marriage Series (Michael and Karma's story, 3.5 books). I say technically, because the .5 (last book) is actually a short novella (8 chapters) that is really a prequel to Michael and Karma's story as it takes place before they meet. It gives some history of the Sovrano family, Michael's position and rise to power. So, while it's out of order, I would read book #4 first. I would also read Steele's Dark Billionaire series first as well, at least book #1 (Billionaires Fake Wife). It takes place before Michael and Karma meet, deals with her sister Summer and provides background on Karma, explains the connection with the Sovrano's and who "the seven" are.
This book, contains some typos, (e.g, use of plural verb when it should be single or vice versa; missing words like "the" or "in; and in one instance, instead of reneged, the word renegade was used). These are minor and have no effect on your understanding. In all honesty, I love Steele's stories and am willing to put up with the occasional, minor typo.
I love the H in this story. He is definitely an anti-hero. Michael is a dominant, with some dark desires which likely stem from his upbringing. He uses women for pleasure but has no relationships. He is solely focused on positioning himself to be the next Don and head of the five families (a position his father now holds) and relationships are a distraction he doesn't need. Karma is a means to an end for him and nothing more, so he wants to believe. But she is so much more.
I love Karma even more. She is a complex character. She leans towards the goth because it's more in keeping with the dark thoughts and desires she tries to deny. She wants to be dominated and defiled, but is ashamed of those desires and struggles to hide them. She is the perfect foil for Michael. I loved that she fights him, sasses him, tells him off, even when he threatens her. She does it because deep down she wants him to make good on those threats, but refuses to admit it to him. And I love that Michael can read her like a book and knows what she really wants even though she denies it.
But all is not easy for these two. Michael's relationship with his father is strained. He's focused on proving himself worthy and capable of taking over from a father who thinks he can rule forever, as well as dealing with some jealous brothers who envy his position as Capo. Karma plays a part in achieving his goals, but he's realizing that she is a distraction he believes he can't afford and fights his attraction to her, refusing to admit he cares. At the same time, Karma fights her attraction to him. She refuses to let herself fall for a man, who though seems perfect for her, who sets her darkest desires free, still kidnapped her, forced marriage and who she believes is only using her. At the end of book #1, after the forced marriage to Michael, Karma manages to escape him.
Although this book has some entertaining and even humorous interactions as well as hot sex between the h and H, there are some dark themes and violence. (It is the Mafia after all and this book depicts the brutality made men show to enemies or those who pose a threat to them.)
Be forewarned, when Michael and Karma first meet (when he abducts her) he has a stewardess on his private plane give him a BJ in front of Karma. Additionally, soon after they arrive at their destination, during their first dinner, he has one of the maids strip on the dining room table with the intent of using her in some fashion in front of Karma (his way to prove to her she means nothing to him), but Karma runs out of the house and he goes after her before anything happens with the maid. Note that these events happen before any real hookup with the h and H, before he's even told her he intends they marry. That being said, based on Michael's views of marriage, I don't expect any cheating as this story continues.
So glad I finally decided to start this series and so looking forward to the next book, Mafia Queen. I've loved every L. Steele story I've read so far.
This is technically Book #1 in L. Steele's Arranged Marriage Series (Michael and Karma's story, 3.5 books). I say technically, because the .5 (last book) is actually a short novella (8 chapters) that is really a prequel to Michael and Karma's story as it takes place before they meet. It gives some history of the Sovrano family, Michael's position and rise to power. So, while it's out of order, I would read book #4 first. I would also read Steele's Dark Billionaire series first as well, at least book #1 (Billionaires Fake Wife). It takes place before Michael and Karma meet, deals with her sister Summer and provides background on Karma, explains the connection with the Sovrano's and who "the seven" are.
This book, contains some typos, (e.g, use of plural verb when it should be single or vice versa; missing words like "the" or "in; and in one instance, instead of reneged, the word renegade was used). These are minor and have no effect on your understanding. In all honesty, I love Steele's stories and am willing to put up with the occasional, minor typo.
I love the H in this story. He is definitely an anti-hero. Michael is a dominant, with some dark desires which likely stem from his upbringing. He uses women for pleasure but has no relationships. He is solely focused on positioning himself to be the next Don and head of the five families (a position his father now holds) and relationships are a distraction he doesn't need. Karma is a means to an end for him and nothing more, so he wants to believe. But she is so much more.
I love Karma even more. She is a complex character. She leans towards the goth because it's more in keeping with the dark thoughts and desires she tries to deny. She wants to be dominated and defiled, but is ashamed of those desires and struggles to hide them. She is the perfect foil for Michael. I loved that she fights him, sasses him, tells him off, even when he threatens her. She does it because deep down she wants him to make good on those threats, but refuses to admit it to him. And I love that Michael can read her like a book and knows what she really wants even though she denies it.
But all is not easy for these two. Michael's relationship with his father is strained. He's focused on proving himself worthy and capable of taking over from a father who thinks he can rule forever, as well as dealing with some jealous brothers who envy his position as Capo. Karma plays a part in achieving his goals, but he's realizing that she is a distraction he believes he can't afford and fights his attraction to her, refusing to admit he cares. At the same time, Karma fights her attraction to him. She refuses to let herself fall for a man, who though seems perfect for her, who sets her darkest desires free, still kidnapped her, forced marriage and who she believes is only using her. At the end of book #1, after the forced marriage to Michael, Karma manages to escape him.
Although this book has some entertaining and even humorous interactions as well as hot sex between the h and H, there are some dark themes and violence. (It is the Mafia after all and this book depicts the brutality made men show to enemies or those who pose a threat to them.)
Be forewarned, when Michael and Karma first meet (when he abducts her) he has a stewardess on his private plane give him a BJ in front of Karma. Additionally, soon after they arrive at their destination, during their first dinner, he has one of the maids strip on the dining room table with the intent of using her in some fashion in front of Karma (his way to prove to her she means nothing to him), but Karma runs out of the house and he goes after her before anything happens with the maid. Note that these events happen before any real hookup with the h and H, before he's even told her he intends they marry. That being said, based on Michael's views of marriage, I don't expect any cheating as this story continues.
So glad I finally decided to start this series and so looking forward to the next book, Mafia Queen. I've loved every L. Steele story I've read so far.
March 30, 2022
This book reads like fanfiction. At this point in my life I’m truly under the impression that people who go on to self publish and their books tend to end up on KU probably started their journeys as fan fiction writers. Overtime some improve and develop well written stories with diverse characters and plots. Some don’t. Most of which have daddy issues that should be addressed by a professional therapist. This book is definitely the latter.
Karma is potentially one of the biggest idiots I have ever read about. She refuses to take life saving medicine to prove “she’s like everyone else” even though she clearly has a whole in her heart. She thinks things like: ‘OMG, he’s kidnapping me.’ Do people actually think in text shorthand? She has unprotected sex one time and comes to the conclusion she’s pregnant mere minutes after it’s happened and decides to make it her life mission to protect her unborn child. I just can’t with her thought processes or her actions.
I understand when it comes to stories like this it’s imperative for the author to make the damsel in distress weak for the man who is kidnapping her. The desire has to be right there from the beginning or else it’s more of a Stockholm syndrome scenario. But I personally can’t suspend my disbelief enough to just think yep, I totally buy that this chick is getting turned on by this guy sent to kidnap her. That seems totally valid. 🙄
The content was fine and even the spice scenes were well written. It’s the characters being stupid and the plot points that need to be fixed. Otherwise it’s not a terrible story for what the author was trying to do. Besides it felt like the author was trying really hard to throw in as much British and Italian slang as possible per page. It wasn’t arguably terrible… but it also wasn’t great.
Karma is potentially one of the biggest idiots I have ever read about. She refuses to take life saving medicine to prove “she’s like everyone else” even though she clearly has a whole in her heart. She thinks things like: ‘OMG, he’s kidnapping me.’ Do people actually think in text shorthand? She has unprotected sex one time and comes to the conclusion she’s pregnant mere minutes after it’s happened and decides to make it her life mission to protect her unborn child. I just can’t with her thought processes or her actions.
I understand when it comes to stories like this it’s imperative for the author to make the damsel in distress weak for the man who is kidnapping her. The desire has to be right there from the beginning or else it’s more of a Stockholm syndrome scenario. But I personally can’t suspend my disbelief enough to just think yep, I totally buy that this chick is getting turned on by this guy sent to kidnap her. That seems totally valid. 🙄
The content was fine and even the spice scenes were well written. It’s the characters being stupid and the plot points that need to be fixed. Otherwise it’s not a terrible story for what the author was trying to do. Besides it felt like the author was trying really hard to throw in as much British and Italian slang as possible per page. It wasn’t arguably terrible… but it also wasn’t great.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2021
It's taken me a few days to get my thoughts in order!! Mafia King is absolutely brilliant!! If you read the prequel,Mafia Heir, you would know that Mafia King is Book 1 of L. Steele's new series. But it also links in with her Bad Billionaire's series. So back to Mafia King itself. Michael had been tasked with finding Karma(Summer's sister from the Bad Billionaire's Fake Wife). He is supposed to take care of her for a debt their father owed. When he realises that Karma is the girl he dreamt about his plans change and he takes her Sicily with him. As the story unfolds we meet the rest of the Sovrano clan and get a glimpse of the lives they lead. the chemistry between Michael and Karma is breathtakingly explosive and will leave you panting. Theres a twist in this book and revelation of betrayal that's not expected. But that just means the rest of the series is going to be one hell of read. L. Steele has once again delivered a brilliant book and even though the ending is not her usual HEA, its got you thinking about the next book. Be prepared for long cold showers...Beauty and the Beast melts the pages of this book!!
July 19, 2021
This is the prequel to Mafia King, the story of Michael Byron, who seems to be the man behind the kidnapping of the Seven. Michael is the son of a cruel and sadistic Mafia Don, whose father beat his mother to death. Inevitably, the father’s cruelty and brutality is turned towards Michael, who is victimized until he goes away to university. Michael’s personality has been damaged, however, and he is a sadist himself. The book sets up the Michael’s backstory and the reasons for his involvement in the Seven’s lives, a la Karma.
Michael has been ordered to take revenge upon a man who has disrespected the family. He does this by meeting the man’s daughter. The daughter is Karma, Summer’s sister, whom we know from the books about the Seven, has been traveling in Italy with her “boyfriend,” and who is later revealed to be the selfsame Michael Byron.
This prequel is tightly written and is important to the reader’s understanding of the Billionaire’s series. I highly recommend it!
Michael has been ordered to take revenge upon a man who has disrespected the family. He does this by meeting the man’s daughter. The daughter is Karma, Summer’s sister, whom we know from the books about the Seven, has been traveling in Italy with her “boyfriend,” and who is later revealed to be the selfsame Michael Byron.
This prequel is tightly written and is important to the reader’s understanding of the Billionaire’s series. I highly recommend it!
April 4, 2022
Why did tiktok hype this up so much
⭐️
⭐️
Read
October 20, 2022Did I DNF @7% ? You bet your ass I did!!!
May 12, 2022
Absolute trash. The dialogue between the two characters is terrible and their internal monologue (primarily the girls) is even worse. The ONLY reason I went to the second book is because the first one ended on a cliffhanger. I’ve seen porn videos with better dialogue than this.
July 31, 2021
I had a lot of trouble empathizing with Michael who is a rotten bastard of a person. Karma, of course, was likable and attracted people to her like flies on honey. All of this author’s heroines are spunky and sassy, but Karma is in a class of her own, adding incredibly courageous to the list of qualities she has. I found it easy to empathize with her and understand her actions, even when she waivers in her animosity toward Michael.
As usual, the story is told from alternating POVs in first-person present-tense which drags the reader directly into the action and makes everything feel more urgent. Michael is sent to kill Karma as payment for a debt owed by her father, but when he sees her, he realizes she is the woman from his dreams and he decides to take her instead. He will not allow himself to feel anything for her and claims he has only decided to marry her to facilitate a business relationship with the Seven. Where have we heard this trope before? Meanwhile, Karma fights her growing attraction for Michael because she recognizes how twisted it is that she would fall for her kidnapper.
I think one of the things that was most well done in this book was the depiction of Karma’s internal conflict between her attraction for Michael and her fear of him. She constantly struggles to tamp down on her empathy for him by reminding herself that he is the “monster” who kidnapped her. She tries to fight her own predilection toward the “perverted” things he likes, until eventually, she decides she is no longer going to deny who is. But the denouement of her struggle is best exposed when she literally reaches for his hand as she runs from him. Because the reader has been privy to her thoughts and feelings, her reaction makes sense and the reader feels sympathetic to her plight. Karma’s character is really well-developed and it’s easy to understand her.
On the other hand, Michael is a sadistic dominant (who occasionally exhibits a glimmer of humanity) but doesn’t go as far as I feared he would. He has a line he won’t cross and one of the things he will not do is rape Karma. In fact, he won’t have sex with her until she begs him for it. So, although he is domineering and inflexible, with no discernible sense of humor (which I hope will change later) and definitely pushes the envelope in terms of talking dirty and getting in her space (sexual harassment—check), and although Karma sees him as a monster (a Beast to her Beauty—his nickname for her), he is not one to force himself sexually, which is a relief because there’s no danger of triggering any readers. Except those who may be triggered by a kidnapper who is constantly trying to seduce his victim. Oh, and lest I forget, he has a fascination with knives and that is disturbing.
Ultimately, this is a story of some extremely conflicted characters placed in unusual circumstances and experiencing some unexpected and complicated emotions. As the editor, I have to admit I’m not quite sure how I feel about Michael at this point. I want to find something likable about him, but it’s hard. Karma, on the other hand, is an inspiring and memorable character and it’s easy to empathize with her and root for her. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
As usual, the story is told from alternating POVs in first-person present-tense which drags the reader directly into the action and makes everything feel more urgent. Michael is sent to kill Karma as payment for a debt owed by her father, but when he sees her, he realizes she is the woman from his dreams and he decides to take her instead. He will not allow himself to feel anything for her and claims he has only decided to marry her to facilitate a business relationship with the Seven. Where have we heard this trope before? Meanwhile, Karma fights her growing attraction for Michael because she recognizes how twisted it is that she would fall for her kidnapper.
I think one of the things that was most well done in this book was the depiction of Karma’s internal conflict between her attraction for Michael and her fear of him. She constantly struggles to tamp down on her empathy for him by reminding herself that he is the “monster” who kidnapped her. She tries to fight her own predilection toward the “perverted” things he likes, until eventually, she decides she is no longer going to deny who is. But the denouement of her struggle is best exposed when she literally reaches for his hand as she runs from him. Because the reader has been privy to her thoughts and feelings, her reaction makes sense and the reader feels sympathetic to her plight. Karma’s character is really well-developed and it’s easy to understand her.
On the other hand, Michael is a sadistic dominant (who occasionally exhibits a glimmer of humanity) but doesn’t go as far as I feared he would. He has a line he won’t cross and one of the things he will not do is rape Karma. In fact, he won’t have sex with her until she begs him for it. So, although he is domineering and inflexible, with no discernible sense of humor (which I hope will change later) and definitely pushes the envelope in terms of talking dirty and getting in her space (sexual harassment—check), and although Karma sees him as a monster (a Beast to her Beauty—his nickname for her), he is not one to force himself sexually, which is a relief because there’s no danger of triggering any readers. Except those who may be triggered by a kidnapper who is constantly trying to seduce his victim. Oh, and lest I forget, he has a fascination with knives and that is disturbing.
Ultimately, this is a story of some extremely conflicted characters placed in unusual circumstances and experiencing some unexpected and complicated emotions. As the editor, I have to admit I’m not quite sure how I feel about Michael at this point. I want to find something likable about him, but it’s hard. Karma, on the other hand, is an inspiring and memorable character and it’s easy to empathize with her and root for her. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 23, 2021
Mafia reads are right up my street. The only thing I regret about this book, is I didn't realise there was a whole series where they first appeared before. I know it's not key, but I like knowing any kernels of info so kicking myself there!!! But they'll be on my tbr pile now!!
After reading the prequel, "Mafia Heir", this book basically picks up on the traitors daughter, Karma being alone on a hill reciting poetry to herself, when Michael manages to sneak up upon her, and recites a whole verse much to Karmas annoyance. But also she's impressed with his knowledge and immediately attracted to the tall man, but knows who he is and tries to run.
Michael ends up not killing the beautiful Karma. He knocks her out and takes her home to Italy. How can he kill her after she had haunted his dreams for so long? He needed to investigate this whole situation....
The only way for karma to stay alive is if he marries her. As her sister is married to one of the seven, it's the only way to go ahead, and also linking it to a good reason. Of course, he had to convince Karma...
Karma has a sassy attitude that drives Michael both insane and aroused! This 19yr old taking on the 39yr old soon to be Don of the Cosa Nostra?? Impressive? Or stupid?
He can't shake the attraction, but he finds Karma has similar darkness in her and sees how far he can push this...
Karma is having difficulty admitting to this dark sexuality she has. She fights it strongly but Michael is making it difficult.
This strong headed duo actually make a good couple if they both just gave a bit as well as taking!!
Michael stops any sexual contact before it goes too far, leaving them both panting and extremely aroused. But it's only on their wedding night they consummate it and they give in to the sizzling attraction that's burned for all of the book! For a whole 24hrs Karma doesn't question it and just enjoys it, but suddenly., she starts to think about it and spooks herself...
She makes a run for it when Michael is in the kitchen, and heads to the dick to get off the island.... To find one of Michael's brothers there offering to help her get away from him.
Michael finds them, and you can feel his heart break twice....
He tries to get on the boat but Karma hits him with an oar.... The boat starts and leaves the bay.... With no sign of Michael and a now panicked Karma....
An ending I wasn't expecting, I have to say!! I can't wait for Mafia Queen to complete this!!
I received a copy of the ebook in return for an honest review
After reading the prequel, "Mafia Heir", this book basically picks up on the traitors daughter, Karma being alone on a hill reciting poetry to herself, when Michael manages to sneak up upon her, and recites a whole verse much to Karmas annoyance. But also she's impressed with his knowledge and immediately attracted to the tall man, but knows who he is and tries to run.
Michael ends up not killing the beautiful Karma. He knocks her out and takes her home to Italy. How can he kill her after she had haunted his dreams for so long? He needed to investigate this whole situation....
The only way for karma to stay alive is if he marries her. As her sister is married to one of the seven, it's the only way to go ahead, and also linking it to a good reason. Of course, he had to convince Karma...
Karma has a sassy attitude that drives Michael both insane and aroused! This 19yr old taking on the 39yr old soon to be Don of the Cosa Nostra?? Impressive? Or stupid?
He can't shake the attraction, but he finds Karma has similar darkness in her and sees how far he can push this...
Karma is having difficulty admitting to this dark sexuality she has. She fights it strongly but Michael is making it difficult.
This strong headed duo actually make a good couple if they both just gave a bit as well as taking!!
Michael stops any sexual contact before it goes too far, leaving them both panting and extremely aroused. But it's only on their wedding night they consummate it and they give in to the sizzling attraction that's burned for all of the book! For a whole 24hrs Karma doesn't question it and just enjoys it, but suddenly., she starts to think about it and spooks herself...
She makes a run for it when Michael is in the kitchen, and heads to the dick to get off the island.... To find one of Michael's brothers there offering to help her get away from him.
Michael finds them, and you can feel his heart break twice....
He tries to get on the boat but Karma hits him with an oar.... The boat starts and leaves the bay.... With no sign of Michael and a now panicked Karma....
An ending I wasn't expecting, I have to say!! I can't wait for Mafia Queen to complete this!!
I received a copy of the ebook in return for an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2021
I preorder this book back in December 2020 but I also received a 2 day advanced copy free.
:Note the only reason I’m leaving 4 stars instead of 5 is because this is a cliffhanger book:
Laxmi’s books have not been cliffhangers in the past but all of a sudden here we are. I hate cliffhangers. But I love Laxmi’s books the characters and plots, settings stories are all so vividly well written. I highly suggest reading the BILLIONAIRES SERIES FIRST. You don’t need to, but it enriches the story here. Trust me. Billionaires fake wife SINCLAIR & SUMMER’S STORY and further on to 9+ books. But you really should read MAFIA HEIR. At least, BECAUSE it is the prologue to MAFIA KING. Ok With that said.
MICHAEL & KARMA’S STORY Mafia king is off to an amazing start. It frightened me at first because Michael makes several comments that he will kill Karma, soon or eventually but I know he won’t before creating alliances with ‘THE 7”. You must read the billionaires series to know about “THE 7” … you will get a more full picture. And by the time you are done with those 9 +books MAFIA SERIES might be complete. But neither here nor there.
Karma is Summer’s lil sis. She has medical issues, but is kidnapped my the mafia the same mafia family that has been terrorizing the ladies who get with “THE 7” the same mafia family who kidnapped and tortured “THE 7” when they were just young boys. Now they got Summer’s little sis Karma and no one knows cause Michael is using karma’s phone to send messages to Summer as karma. Not to mention Summer is so focused on her new life so believes the messages she is getting. So basically Karma is on her own! No one is gonna help her, unless Michael’s enemy can also be her friend? Karma & Summer’s father got in deep with the mafia and owes them but before he died he had promised karma to Michael. Initially Michael had intended to kill karma because “THE 7” continues to dig deeper & deeper into who kidnapped and tortured them. And has been Tormenting the ladies of “THE 7”. It was supposed to be a “message’ to back off. But when Michael MR. BROODY MCBROODY PANTS….(who’s middle name is BYRON ), finds Karma reading his favorite (Broody MCbroody Pants) author Lord Byron. So, instead Michael kidnaps her, Karma is forced to marry Michael. And become THE MAFIA QUEEN. (next book in series)
I’ll be reading this.
:Note the only reason I’m leaving 4 stars instead of 5 is because this is a cliffhanger book:
Laxmi’s books have not been cliffhangers in the past but all of a sudden here we are. I hate cliffhangers. But I love Laxmi’s books the characters and plots, settings stories are all so vividly well written. I highly suggest reading the BILLIONAIRES SERIES FIRST. You don’t need to, but it enriches the story here. Trust me. Billionaires fake wife SINCLAIR & SUMMER’S STORY and further on to 9+ books. But you really should read MAFIA HEIR. At least, BECAUSE it is the prologue to MAFIA KING. Ok With that said.
MICHAEL & KARMA’S STORY Mafia king is off to an amazing start. It frightened me at first because Michael makes several comments that he will kill Karma, soon or eventually but I know he won’t before creating alliances with ‘THE 7”. You must read the billionaires series to know about “THE 7” … you will get a more full picture. And by the time you are done with those 9 +books MAFIA SERIES might be complete. But neither here nor there.
Karma is Summer’s lil sis. She has medical issues, but is kidnapped my the mafia the same mafia family that has been terrorizing the ladies who get with “THE 7” the same mafia family who kidnapped and tortured “THE 7” when they were just young boys. Now they got Summer’s little sis Karma and no one knows cause Michael is using karma’s phone to send messages to Summer as karma. Not to mention Summer is so focused on her new life so believes the messages she is getting. So basically Karma is on her own! No one is gonna help her, unless Michael’s enemy can also be her friend? Karma & Summer’s father got in deep with the mafia and owes them but before he died he had promised karma to Michael. Initially Michael had intended to kill karma because “THE 7” continues to dig deeper & deeper into who kidnapped and tortured them. And has been Tormenting the ladies of “THE 7”. It was supposed to be a “message’ to back off. But when Michael MR. BROODY MCBROODY PANTS….(who’s middle name is BYRON ), finds Karma reading his favorite (Broody MCbroody Pants) author Lord Byron. So, instead Michael kidnaps her, Karma is forced to marry Michael. And become THE MAFIA QUEEN. (next book in series)
I’ll be reading this.
December 10, 2023
Book: Mafia King
Read By: Ebook
Author: L. Steele
Genre: BDSM, Dark Romance
Recommend: Yes
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
This was my first experience with L. Steele's audiobooks and I am left speechless. The story had me completely captivated, but at the same time it felt a bit far-fetched. It's hard to put into words the range of emotions I experienced while listening. There were moments when I couldn't stand the story or its characters, yet there was something undeniably alluring that kept me hooked until the end. And let me tell you, Michael was by far the biggest Alphahole jerk I've come across in a long time. His actions and attitude made me despise him for most of the story, but then towards the end, I found myself begrudgingly liking him just a little bit...and then bam! A cliffhanger that I never saw coming! Jason Clarke and Roxy Isles narrate this story and completely bring it to life. Clarke's deep, growly voice was perfect for portraying the mafia Capo, Michael, and he delivered every line with conviction. As for Isles, she is a new narrator for me, but her performance was impressive. She captured Karma's essence flawlessly and brought an edge to her character that I hadn't even imagined. If you're a fan of dark mafia romance filled with arranged marriages and steamy scenes, then look no further because this book has it all.
Read By: Ebook
Author: L. Steele
Genre: BDSM, Dark Romance
Recommend: Yes
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
This was my first experience with L. Steele's audiobooks and I am left speechless. The story had me completely captivated, but at the same time it felt a bit far-fetched. It's hard to put into words the range of emotions I experienced while listening. There were moments when I couldn't stand the story or its characters, yet there was something undeniably alluring that kept me hooked until the end. And let me tell you, Michael was by far the biggest Alphahole jerk I've come across in a long time. His actions and attitude made me despise him for most of the story, but then towards the end, I found myself begrudgingly liking him just a little bit...and then bam! A cliffhanger that I never saw coming! Jason Clarke and Roxy Isles narrate this story and completely bring it to life. Clarke's deep, growly voice was perfect for portraying the mafia Capo, Michael, and he delivered every line with conviction. As for Isles, she is a new narrator for me, but her performance was impressive. She captured Karma's essence flawlessly and brought an edge to her character that I hadn't even imagined. If you're a fan of dark mafia romance filled with arranged marriages and steamy scenes, then look no further because this book has it all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 429 reviews