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beckyrendon's review against another edition
3.0
Breath of Deceit is filled with enemies and potential enemies. An Irish Mob family with all the problem: an overbearing evil father, the "boss" trying to save his family, and more snakes/rats/issues than they can catch.
Add in a quirky hacker that has the "boss" losing focus and it doesn't get any less complicated. Oh and then theirs the rivals, the Feds, and did I mention the dad...
Breath of Deceit is full of complications.
Reviewed for Naughty Book Blog
Add in a quirky hacker that has the "boss" losing focus and it doesn't get any less complicated. Oh and then theirs the rivals, the Feds, and did I mention the dad...
Breath of Deceit is full of complications.
Reviewed for Naughty Book Blog
kate_and_books's review against another edition
3.0
3 'where was the romance' stars?
I must have read a different book compared to all the fantastic reviews here, so it seems once again I am in the minority here so take this review with a pinch of salt.
I was intrigued by the blurb and that in all honesty should have been the first sign as a mention to a heroine wasn’t really made in the blurb. So that is kind of my fault.
The characters are all interesting in their own way. Cian is trying to get out of the family business being the boss of the Irish mafia he will do everything to protect his brothers. He expects never to survive his double life. The plot mainly concentrated on how Cian was going to get his brothers out.
The book is well written, and the pace overall was solid. The development of why the story was going interested me but it would slow down with what the day to day routines were.
There are two opponents the Vasquez Cartel and behind them the Bratva which kind of got confusing.
The romance concentrated a lot on Cian’s brother and his ex-girlfriend Jess whom he cheated on with the sister of the Cartel. I’m not sure what the author was trying to aim at and I personally find it hard to categorise this book. Is it a thriller or a crime with a dash of romance? Romantic suspense or something completely different.
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I must have read a different book compared to all the fantastic reviews here, so it seems once again I am in the minority here so take this review with a pinch of salt.
I was intrigued by the blurb and that in all honesty should have been the first sign as a mention to a heroine wasn’t really made in the blurb. So that is kind of my fault.
The characters are all interesting in their own way. Cian is trying to get out of the family business being the boss of the Irish mafia he will do everything to protect his brothers. He expects never to survive his double life. The plot mainly concentrated on how Cian was going to get his brothers out.
The book is well written, and the pace overall was solid. The development of why the story was going interested me but it would slow down with what the day to day routines were.
There are two opponents the Vasquez Cartel and behind them the Bratva which kind of got confusing.
The romance concentrated a lot on Cian’s brother and his ex-girlfriend Jess whom he cheated on with the sister of the Cartel. I’m not sure what the author was trying to aim at and I personally find it hard to categorise this book. Is it a thriller or a crime with a dash of romance? Romantic suspense or something completely different.
═══ PLEASE SUBSCRIBE / LIKE / FOLLOW US ════
Blog : https://www.jerisbookattic.com
FB Page : https://www.facebook.com/JerisBookAttic
Twitter : https://twitter.com/JeriTRyan
Goodreads : https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/20537528-jeri
Bloglovin : https://www.bloglovin.com/@jerisbookattic
mimireadsromance's review against another edition
5.0
When the author mentioned that this book would not be her usual romance, but instead a story about an Irish crime family in Chicago, I was so excited! I am one of those gals that loves the mob/mafia/crime syndicate films and TV shows. I just knew Selena Laurence had the writing chops to really entertain me and she did NOT disappoint! I read this book twice, first as an advanced reader copy and then my purchased copy when it landed on my kindle at midnight (Who needs sleep? Not this reader!). Selena Laurence has a real knack for writing sexy, smart, layered characters and I was happy to see that same writing style carry over into this book. The MacFarlane family is intense! I love these Irish brothers and the way that each of their stories is brought to life in this book. As a reader, you think you understand their motivations for being involved in the family business, but then come the little bits of information that make you consider the characters in a different way. Each has their role to play, and it's fascinating to follow along as their choices play out. The plot, as I stated earlier, is not a romance with a HEA; however, there are romantic elements and couples that I found myself hoping would be able to work through their issues. Beyond all of that, at it's core this book is a fascinating look at a very twisted family dynamic! The brothers' devotion to one another, especially in light of their father's particularly nasty attitude, is almost heartbreaking. The story-line, full of so many secrets, regrets, and sacrifices, was excellent. I'm honestly looking forward to reading this book again. Yes, AGAIN! I need more of the MacFarlane family and really can't wait to get my hands on the next book.
I really hope that if you love Selena Laurence's work, but you initially balked at reading this book, that you'll reconsider. I know it's a new direction, but the MacFarlane brothers are so worth taking the chance! The author continues to prove her spot on my Top 10 auto-buy list is well-deserved!
Note***I call dibs on Cian! Yep, he's mine. Sorry, not sorry!
I really hope that if you love Selena Laurence's work, but you initially balked at reading this book, that you'll reconsider. I know it's a new direction, but the MacFarlane brothers are so worth taking the chance! The author continues to prove her spot on my Top 10 auto-buy list is well-deserved!
Note***I call dibs on Cian! Yep, he's mine. Sorry, not sorry!
the_sassy_bookworm's review against another edition
4.0
~WRITING - PLOT - PACE~I enjoyed this one quite a bit. Thanks to my friend Kate I went into it with lower expectations regarding the romance aspect, and to be honest, there really wasn't any romance in this one. Maybe a hint here and there, but overall this was more a mafia family type of book than a romance. That said, the writing was very good. The pace moved along at a good clip. The plot was engaging, but maybe a little confusing at times with so many characters and moving parts (the Irish mob, the Mexican mob, the Russian mob, the Feds). Not to mention a good portion of this book is dedicated to Cian's brother Conner and Jess's "romance". There was A LOT going on and because of that Cian and Lila's "romance" (if you want to call it that) really took a backseat. I imagine since this book ended on a cliffhanger we will see more development between them in upcoming books.
~MAIN CHARACTERS~
There were so many characters in this book. From the blurb, I assumed Cian and Lila would be the main ones, but honestly, Cian and his brothers are really the focus here with Jess (Connor's ex) being the main female lead (IMO). That said, Lila was an intriguing character and I can't wait to see where she and Cian are headed in the next book. I was intrigued by pretty much every single character in this book. Cian, Liam, Finn, and Connor were all great characters. All different personality wise. Even the secondary characters and baddies were intriguing and well written.
~HEAT LEVEL~
Basically zero. There is one super mild sex scene between Connor and Jess, and one super mild sex scene between Cian and Lila right at the end. Other than that this book was super tame. Like I mentioned above, I wouldn't consider this book to be a romantic suspense, more suspense with a tiny bit of romance. Perhaps upcoming books will be spicier?
~ANGST LEVEL - SEXUAL HISTORIES~
Plot wise...medium. Relationship wise...medium (Connor and Jess) None...(Cian and Lila). Most of the angst in this one comes from all the mob dealings, murders, secrets etc. Connor cheated on Jess, so those two have some issues between them and that causes relationship angst for them. Cian and Lila really have no romantic relationship throughout the book, so no angst there. There really wasn't any OW drama (other than the fact Connor cheated), and there wasn't any OM drama either. None of the people having sex were virgins.
~IN THE END~
I enjoyed it a lot. Don't go into this expecting some great romance story because you will be sorrily disappointed. That said, it was a fantastic start to a mafia family focused suspense story. It was well written and well paced. The characters were interesting and had depth. The plot was well executed (if maybe a little convoluted at times), but I wasn't overly bothered by that as this was the first book in a new series and the author was laying the groundwork. Therefore yours truly is going to give this one two thumbs up and I will definitely be keeping my eyes peeled for book two that should be out in Septemeber.
beckiebookworm1974's review
4.0
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️STARS.
ARC BOOK REVIEW
Release Date-15/5/18
"Breath Of Deceit" was a good solid read; it was not quite what I was expecting but that was not altogether a bad thing.
Let me explain; I was expecting more of a traditional mafia romance and what I actually got was more the start of a mafia suspense with romantic elements throughout.
"Breath Of Deceit" seems to set a lot of the groundwork for the future series and what we get here is great stuff.
This is a suspenseful interesting start to what I imagine is going to be a very interesting new series.
I am really looking forward to seeing where this is ultimately heading.
With really inventive characters and fantastic storytelling its not difficult to fully immerse yourself in this colourful new world.
This was action packed and addictive reading right from the start.
Going into this and from the blurb, I was expecting for Cian and Lila to take centre stage.
Buts it's actually the youngest brother Connor and his ex-girlfriend Jess who seem to be the more dominant couple here.
We do get some insight into Cian and Lila but I am expecting so much more from them in the next instalment in this series.
Here their story seems to be just getting started.
"Breath Of Deceit" Is told from multiple POV usually not my bag but here it did seem to work.
I also should mention if your looking for heat factor this is not that graphic.
This was more story based and though we do get a couple mildly sexy scenes "Breath Of Deceit" I actually found very tame to what I'm used to more of a slow burn.
Again not a bag thing just different.
Ultimately this was a good read; managing to hook and keep my attention throughout.
A great start to a new series that I am happy to recommend.
Thank You to the Author for providing me with an ARC of "Breath of Deceit (Dublin Devils #1) " of which I have reviewed voluntary.
All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
becsa's review against another edition
4.0
Cian MacFarlane owns the club Banshee but more importantly he is in charge of the Dublin Devils. But since he has begun running the club after his father Robbie had a heart attack he wants to protect his brothers at all costs.
Soon Cian finds himself in situations out of his control and he has to decide who he needs to protect and who can be risked. When he meets the beautiful Lila Rodriguez, the new systems coordinator for Rogue, all of his plans are at risk as he doesn't want her to go down with others.
But in the crime world there is only one thing that matters - money and that can buy allegiance from anyone.
Wow - this book was great and had so much to it!
Right away I loved Cian and I completely understood what he was trying to do to protect Conner. He was such a complex character and he had a heart, despite growing up how he did. I really liked all of the brothers, Finn, Liam and Conner but absolutely hated their dad Robbie. He was so demeaning and really treated the boys awful.
I thought Lila was great and she was in a difficult position but I was glad that she decided to help Cian on his side projects and it was great how she was able to help him. She is a weakness for Cian but he truly deserves a true love.
The twists and turns in this book were absolutely incredible and I was totally shocked at some of the stuff that went down and how. I loved what Cian did for Conner but I am scared at what may happen because of it.
The end of the book left me so mad though at two specific characters and I am freaking out what they are going to do. One of them I was expecting it from but the other one I definitely was not and he needs to pay!!
I can't wait for the next one in the series!!
Soon Cian finds himself in situations out of his control and he has to decide who he needs to protect and who can be risked. When he meets the beautiful Lila Rodriguez, the new systems coordinator for Rogue, all of his plans are at risk as he doesn't want her to go down with others.
But in the crime world there is only one thing that matters - money and that can buy allegiance from anyone.
Wow - this book was great and had so much to it!
Right away I loved Cian and I completely understood what he was trying to do to protect Conner. He was such a complex character and he had a heart, despite growing up how he did. I really liked all of the brothers, Finn, Liam and Conner but absolutely hated their dad Robbie. He was so demeaning and really treated the boys awful.
I thought Lila was great and she was in a difficult position but I was glad that she decided to help Cian on his side projects and it was great how she was able to help him. She is a weakness for Cian but he truly deserves a true love.
The twists and turns in this book were absolutely incredible and I was totally shocked at some of the stuff that went down and how. I loved what Cian did for Conner but I am scared at what may happen because of it.
The end of the book left me so mad though at two specific characters and I am freaking out what they are going to do. One of them I was expecting it from but the other one I definitely was not and he needs to pay!!
I can't wait for the next one in the series!!
thesassybookworm's review against another edition
4.0
~WRITING - PLOT - PACE~I enjoyed this one quite a bit. Thanks to my friend Kate I went into it with lower expectations regarding the romance aspect, and to be honest, there really wasn't any romance in this one. Maybe a hint here and there, but overall this was more a mafia family type of book than a romance. That said, the writing was very good. The pace moved along at a good clip. The plot was engaging, but maybe a little confusing at times with so many characters and moving parts (the Irish mob, the Mexican mob, the Russian mob, the Feds). Not to mention a good portion of this book is dedicated to Cian's brother Conner and Jess's "romance". There was A LOT going on and because of that Cian and Lila's "romance" (if you want to call it that) really took a backseat. I imagine since this book ended on a cliffhanger we will see more development between them in upcoming books.
~MAIN CHARACTERS~
There were so many characters in this book. From the blurb, I assumed Cian and Lila would be the main ones, but honestly, Cian and his brothers are really the focus here with Jess (Connor's ex) being the main female lead (IMO). That said, Lila was an intriguing character and I can't wait to see where she and Cian are headed in the next book. I was intrigued by pretty much every single character in this book. Cian, Liam, Finn, and Connor were all great characters. All different personality wise. Even the secondary characters and baddies were intriguing and well written.
~HEAT LEVEL~
Basically zero. There is one super mild sex scene between Connor and Jess, and one super mild sex scene between Cian and Lila right at the end. Other than that this book was super tame. Like I mentioned above, I wouldn't consider this book to be a romantic suspense, more suspense with a tiny bit of romance. Perhaps upcoming books will be spicier?
~ANGST LEVEL - SEXUAL HISTORIES~
Plot wise...medium. Relationship wise...medium (Connor and Jess) None...(Cian and Lila). Most of the angst in this one comes from all the mob dealings, murders, secrets etc. Connor cheated on Jess, so those two have some issues between them and that causes relationship angst for them. Cian and Lila really have no romantic relationship throughout the book, so no angst there. There really wasn't any OW drama (other than the fact Connor cheated), and there wasn't any OM drama either. None of the people having sex were virgins.
~IN THE END~
I enjoyed it a lot. Don't go into this expecting some great romance story because you will be sorrily disappointed. That said, it was a fantastic start to a mafia family focused suspense story. It was well written and well paced. The characters were interesting and had depth. The plot was well executed (if maybe a little convoluted at times), but I wasn't overly bothered by that as this was the first book in a new series and the author was laying the groundwork. Therefore yours truly is going to give this one two thumbs up and I will definitely be keeping my eyes peeled for book two that should be out in Septemeber.
booksandcoffee415's review against another edition
5.0
Loved this book so much. I love how it gives various characters point of view. It helps see what is going on in various stages and gives a glimpse into what they’re thinking.
Must read for sure - sexy Irish mob brothers, ruthless cruel father & a while bunch of enemies! Will they survive in the end?
Must read for sure - sexy Irish mob brothers, ruthless cruel father & a while bunch of enemies! Will they survive in the end?
jojo_k654's review against another edition
slow-paced
3.0
I thought I was getting a mafia romance but instead I got myself a dose of crime family drama. I wanted a more in depth romance between Cian and Lila but I was introduced to Cian’s brothers and their issues/backgrounds and more drama involved with Connor and his ex-girlfriend Jess. I wasn’t getting any chemistry between our main MCs because they really didn’t spend any time together. I didn’t appreciate the cliffhanger-y ending that the story will just continue on next in series. This book felt like an introduction of members of a crime family with a romance on the side.
the_sassy_bookworm's review
4.0
~WRITING - PLOT - PACE~I enjoyed this one quite a bit. Thanks to my friend Kate I went into it with lower expectations regarding the romance aspect, and to be honest, there really wasn't any romance in this one. Maybe a hint here and there, but overall this was more a mafia family type of book than a romance. That said, the writing was very good. The pace moved along at a good clip. The plot was engaging, but maybe a little confusing at times with so many characters and moving parts (the Irish mob, the Mexican mob, the Russian mob, the Feds). Not to mention a good portion of this book is dedicated to Cian's brother Conner and Jess's "romance". There was A LOT going on and because of that Cian and Lila's "romance" (if you want to call it that) really took a backseat. I imagine since this book ended on a cliffhanger we will see more development between them in upcoming books.
~MAIN CHARACTERS~
There were so many characters in this book. From the blurb, I assumed Cian and Lila would be the main ones, but honestly, Cian and his brothers are really the focus here with Jess (Connor's ex) being the main female lead (IMO). That said, Lila was an intriguing character and I can't wait to see where she and Cian are headed in the next book. I was intrigued by pretty much every single character in this book. Cian, Liam, Finn, and Connor were all great characters. All different personality wise. Even the secondary characters and baddies were intriguing and well written.
~HEAT LEVEL~
Basically zero. There is one super mild sex scene between Connor and Jess, and one super mild sex scene between Cian and Lila right at the end. Other than that this book was super tame. Like I mentioned above, I wouldn't consider this book to be a romantic suspense, more suspense with a tiny bit of romance. Perhaps upcoming books will be spicier?
~ANGST LEVEL - SEXUAL HISTORIES~
Plot wise...medium. Relationship wise...medium (Connor and Jess) None...(Cian and Lila). Most of the angst in this one comes from all the mob dealings, murders, secrets etc. Connor cheated on Jess, so those two have some issues between them and that causes relationship angst for them. Cian and Lila really have no romantic relationship throughout the book, so no angst there. There really wasn't any OW drama (other than the fact Connor cheated), and there wasn't any OM drama either. None of the people having sex were virgins.
~IN THE END~
I enjoyed it a lot. Don't go into this expecting some great romance story because you will be sorrily disappointed. That said, it was a fantastic start to a mafia family focused suspense story. It was well written and well paced. The characters were interesting and had depth. The plot was well executed (if maybe a little convoluted at times), but I wasn't overly bothered by that as this was the first book in a new series and the author was laying the groundwork. Therefore yours truly is going to give this one two thumbs up and I will definitely be keeping my eyes peeled for book two that should be out in Septemeber.
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