4.5 stars

I was very excited about this book when the initial blurb came out because two of my favorite authors were writing it. However, I became even more excited when I saw the second blurb because dark romance is my jam. I am not going to lie and say that I didn't have concerns because dark romance is not something that I normally think of when where these two authors are concerned. Sure, Mafia Cassanova had elements of it, but nothing like the premise of this book. Well, I need not have worried because these authors did an excellent job.

From the first paragraph to the prologue this book consumed me. The writing was superb and almost lyrical at times. The storyline itself was just what I imagine for dark romance. Is it troubling? Absolutely. Is the lifestyle deplorable? Again, absolutely. Yet, it still made it compelling. There were the dark elements that I love but there was also a sense of freedom knowing that Juliet was truly being free, which is ironic in itself since she was captive. I liked the complexity of Donovan's character. I appreciated the dual points of view because it added another dimension to the story that allowed me the chance to fully dive into the psyche of the characters. I, especially, loved the flashbacks in regards to Donovan because that really helped make sense of what he was doing and why. There were a few twists and turns that I didn't see coming which is always a bonus for me when reading.

My only issues came from a couple of parts of the story that I feel could have used some fleshing out. Especially, where Juliet's family comes in and how the past tied these two together. Still, this was a great story. These two are fast becoming my favorite writing duo. I am going to need both of these authors to continue to step outside of their comfort zone because this is one of the best that they have written separately and together. ( )