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Top Shelf #6
Sinners & Gin
My power is absolute. My rules are law.Structure.Obedience.Discipline.I am in charge, and what I say goes. Black and white with no gray.No one dares break the rules in my dark and twisted world… until her. Until she makes me cross my own jagged lines.She’s untouched. Perfection. Pure.Forbidden.She tests my limits in all ways.There is only one option left.I will claim her as mine no matter how many rules are broken.*Sinners & Gin is a dark billionaire romance. If you don’t like a splash of shock, a dash of edge, and a heavy dose of dirty, then don’t take a sip of this TOP SHELF cocktail.
217 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2020
About the author
Alta Hensley
95 books1,622 followersAlta Hensley is a USA TODAY bestselling author of hot, dark and dirty romance. She is also an Amazon Top 10 bestselling author. Being a multi-published author in the romance genre, Alta is known for her dark, gritty alpha heroes, sometimes sweet love stories, hot eroticism, and engaging tales of the constant struggle between dominance and submission.
She lives in Astoria, Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and an Australian Shepherd. When she isn't walking the coastline, and drinking beer in her favorite breweries, she is writing about villains who always get their love story and happily ever after.
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She lives in Astoria, Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and an Australian Shepherd. When she isn't walking the coastline, and drinking beer in her favorite breweries, she is writing about villains who always get their love story and happily ever after.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltaHensleyA...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Alta-Hensley/e...
Website: www.altahensley.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/altahensley
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alta-...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altahensley
Join her mailing list: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
May 23, 2020
It should be a lot shorter thus I would disregard the plot holes more easily.
April 12, 2022
If you didn’t get from the blurb that there are no rainbows and gumdrops happening in these pages, let me assure then that are
no fucking gumdrops up in this story
, but maybe a rainbow *wink* If your rainbows come with some serious dark and edgy colors, I’ve got a deliciously dangerous and epic erotic tale for you to read right here!
I don’t know what I was expecting when I jumped on this title but I’m pretty sure I got a heck of a lot more! The story isn’t just edgy, it’s anticipatory and all-in-captivating! I COULD NOT STOP READING yet I wanted to every single other page LOL It has serious whoa factor! And here’s the thing … It wasn’t all Mathew with the whoa factor. Aria was impressive! You’re gonna hate to love Mathew, and love you will, but Aria … maaaaaaaaaan, I wanna be that chic when I grow up!
Do not underestimate this story people. It will kick you in the nuts when you least expected and blow your heart into smithereens! It’s not a short story, but I managed to read it in just a couple of hours. I’m looking forward to going to the beginning of this series now that I’ve had a small taste!
Copy provided for blog tour review
I don’t know what I was expecting when I jumped on this title but I’m pretty sure I got a heck of a lot more! The story isn’t just edgy, it’s anticipatory and all-in-captivating! I COULD NOT STOP READING yet I wanted to every single other page LOL It has serious whoa factor! And here’s the thing … It wasn’t all Mathew with the whoa factor. Aria was impressive! You’re gonna hate to love Mathew, and love you will, but Aria … maaaaaaaaaan, I wanna be that chic when I grow up!
Do not underestimate this story people. It will kick you in the nuts when you least expected and blow your heart into smithereens! It’s not a short story, but I managed to read it in just a couple of hours. I’m looking forward to going to the beginning of this series now that I’ve had a small taste!
Copy provided for blog tour review
July 3, 2022
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- Excellent - Highly Recommended
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
February 19, 2020
MY CAPTIVE—MY REVENGE—MY PROBLEM
Once again, Ms. Alta Hensley has penned a story that is spine-tingling, on-the-edge-of-your-seat, I can’t look, but I can’t look away page-turning tale. There is a unique cast of characters, some you will hate, some will have you hot and bothered, and some, you just aren’t sure about. The characters and situations are explicated in detail. The story is not for those who want wine and roses with a sweet storyline. The story is raw, edgy, dirty, painful, intense, explicit and erotic. The story includes kidnapping, forced submission, non-consensual and dubious consent—but if you are ok with that, read on—and maybe you’ll even have a happy ending. If you don’t like a splash of shock, a dash of taboo, and a heavy dose of sex, then don’t take a sip of this TOP SHELF cocktail.
Matthew Price is a businessman, and when Mafia boss, Vittorio Costa, breaks the rules, steals from Matthew, he plans his revenge. He is all about “black and white with no gray.” Now, with the help of his partners at Spiked Roses, he is going to take something precious and guarded from Vittorio, his daughter, his little Mafia Princess. “I will claim her as mine no matter how many rules are broken.”
“Vittorio Costa. Your daughter will be mine. I was the hunter and she was the prey. A shame really. That she would be the innocent victim in this sick and twisted game that I would win. Collateral damage. But again—tonight was about me, so I pushed any guilt or shameful thoughts to the dark recesses of my soul.”
“You are to submit; you are to accept, you are to surrender. You are to do only as I request—nothing more.” It was so wrong and I fed on every second of it. He stole from me. Tit for tat.”
Aria Costa will sneak into her father’s latest kink party—a kitty party, and while she dresses the part, in disguise, she will stay hidden and then leave. But Matthew Price knows who Aria is, and she is his target. He will go with her to her room and introduce her to his dominance. She is surrendering in her room, and then they are escaping out the window. Now she is his prisoner.
“I had already made up my mind that I would return her to her father and never look back. Close this chapter of my life and get back to my cold, emotionless, and lucrative life I lived before. For now, though, I intended to indulge myself—and her.”
The story will have Matthew taking Arai from her father’s lodge in Aspen and hiding her in his mountain hideaway, along with Tennessee, to cook and help out. What Matthew wasn’t expecting was to learn who Aria really is, not the stuck up Mafia Princess he assumed. The more they are together and talk, the more he realizes she is a prisoner of her father's. But this is business and he has made a deal---his possessions returned for her. What happens when emotions get in the way? How could they ever have a future?
“I don’t want this to end. But you said it yourself. I’m just a business transaction. I just didn’t want to hear you. But I get it now. Loud and clear. One possession for another. I guess I should be happy that I’m at least being exchanged for something of such high value.”
The exchange happens, and Matthew watches Ara walk away, never turning around. Matthew isn’t a happy content person since the exchange. Tennessee has worked his magic back at Spiked Roses, but what about helping Matthew? The partners decide it is time for a new tasting party, and after witnessing the scene at Vittorio’s kitty party, that will be the theme for the next tasting. But when Matthew declines to attend, Tennessee won’t allow him, insisting he needs to be present. Is there something Matthew needs to see? You got to love Tennessee and his art of persuasion.
The story is a dark and wickedly delicious addition to the Top Shelf series, with so many explicit scenes of depravity that both Aria and Matthew experience during her incarceration. What happens when they separate? Is this the end?
“Maybe our love story didn’t start off in the most conventional of ways, but I wouldn’t want it to change.”
Once again, Ms. Alta Hensley has penned a story that is spine-tingling, on-the-edge-of-your-seat, I can’t look, but I can’t look away page-turning tale. There is a unique cast of characters, some you will hate, some will have you hot and bothered, and some, you just aren’t sure about. The characters and situations are explicated in detail. The story is not for those who want wine and roses with a sweet storyline. The story is raw, edgy, dirty, painful, intense, explicit and erotic. The story includes kidnapping, forced submission, non-consensual and dubious consent—but if you are ok with that, read on—and maybe you’ll even have a happy ending. If you don’t like a splash of shock, a dash of taboo, and a heavy dose of sex, then don’t take a sip of this TOP SHELF cocktail.
Matthew Price is a businessman, and when Mafia boss, Vittorio Costa, breaks the rules, steals from Matthew, he plans his revenge. He is all about “black and white with no gray.” Now, with the help of his partners at Spiked Roses, he is going to take something precious and guarded from Vittorio, his daughter, his little Mafia Princess. “I will claim her as mine no matter how many rules are broken.”
“Vittorio Costa. Your daughter will be mine. I was the hunter and she was the prey. A shame really. That she would be the innocent victim in this sick and twisted game that I would win. Collateral damage. But again—tonight was about me, so I pushed any guilt or shameful thoughts to the dark recesses of my soul.”
“You are to submit; you are to accept, you are to surrender. You are to do only as I request—nothing more.” It was so wrong and I fed on every second of it. He stole from me. Tit for tat.”
Aria Costa will sneak into her father’s latest kink party—a kitty party, and while she dresses the part, in disguise, she will stay hidden and then leave. But Matthew Price knows who Aria is, and she is his target. He will go with her to her room and introduce her to his dominance. She is surrendering in her room, and then they are escaping out the window. Now she is his prisoner.
“I had already made up my mind that I would return her to her father and never look back. Close this chapter of my life and get back to my cold, emotionless, and lucrative life I lived before. For now, though, I intended to indulge myself—and her.”
The story will have Matthew taking Arai from her father’s lodge in Aspen and hiding her in his mountain hideaway, along with Tennessee, to cook and help out. What Matthew wasn’t expecting was to learn who Aria really is, not the stuck up Mafia Princess he assumed. The more they are together and talk, the more he realizes she is a prisoner of her father's. But this is business and he has made a deal---his possessions returned for her. What happens when emotions get in the way? How could they ever have a future?
“I don’t want this to end. But you said it yourself. I’m just a business transaction. I just didn’t want to hear you. But I get it now. Loud and clear. One possession for another. I guess I should be happy that I’m at least being exchanged for something of such high value.”
The exchange happens, and Matthew watches Ara walk away, never turning around. Matthew isn’t a happy content person since the exchange. Tennessee has worked his magic back at Spiked Roses, but what about helping Matthew? The partners decide it is time for a new tasting party, and after witnessing the scene at Vittorio’s kitty party, that will be the theme for the next tasting. But when Matthew declines to attend, Tennessee won’t allow him, insisting he needs to be present. Is there something Matthew needs to see? You got to love Tennessee and his art of persuasion.
The story is a dark and wickedly delicious addition to the Top Shelf series, with so many explicit scenes of depravity that both Aria and Matthew experience during her incarceration. What happens when they separate? Is this the end?
“Maybe our love story didn’t start off in the most conventional of ways, but I wouldn’t want it to change.”
February 16, 2020
This is the 6th book in the Top Shelf series, but can be read as a stand alone. The other members of Spiked Roses make an appearance, but not enough that you would be confused without reading the rest of the series.
Be warned this is somewhat of a dark Romance that involves kidnapping, mafia king pins, some violence, spankings, and dominance
Matthew Price kidnaps Aria from her mafia father in retaliation for stealing from him. He takes her deep into the mountains of Colorado to his cabin, and keeps her prisoner.
I loved Aria's character. She had been raised by her dad as basically a prisoner her whole life. She did not act like a spoiled mafia princess, but just wanted her freedom from her father. She wasn't afraid to stand up to Matthew, no matter how many times he punished her.
Matthew is very dominant, and did not like for anyone to disobey him, least of all his enemy's daughter. He did not like being told no. He is a very powerful man, and is used to getting things done.
The sex scenes in this book are scorching. Matthew really loved to discipline Aria when she disobeyed him.
The book kind of fell flat for me at about the 81% mark. Everything from then on just felt rushed. I really enjoyed the book up until that point. I wished there was an epilogue.
Overall it was a good read, but it wasn't my favorite of the series
I recommend this book to anyone who wants a hot and steamy with a touch of dark read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving a review
Be warned this is somewhat of a dark Romance that involves kidnapping, mafia king pins, some violence, spankings, and dominance
Matthew Price kidnaps Aria from her mafia father in retaliation for stealing from him. He takes her deep into the mountains of Colorado to his cabin, and keeps her prisoner.
I loved Aria's character. She had been raised by her dad as basically a prisoner her whole life. She did not act like a spoiled mafia princess, but just wanted her freedom from her father. She wasn't afraid to stand up to Matthew, no matter how many times he punished her.
Matthew is very dominant, and did not like for anyone to disobey him, least of all his enemy's daughter. He did not like being told no. He is a very powerful man, and is used to getting things done.
The sex scenes in this book are scorching. Matthew really loved to discipline Aria when she disobeyed him.
The book kind of fell flat for me at about the 81% mark. Everything from then on just felt rushed. I really enjoyed the book up until that point. I wished there was an epilogue.
Overall it was a good read, but it wasn't my favorite of the series
I recommend this book to anyone who wants a hot and steamy with a touch of dark read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving a review
February 16, 2020
Sinners & Gin by Alta Hensley is book 6 in the Top Shelf Series. This is the story of Matthew Price and Aria Costa. I have read some of the previous books and some of the previous characters do make appearances in this one. With that said, I did feel this could be a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Matthew is part owner of the Spiked Roses along with being a mafia boss. When Vittorio Costa steals a shipment from him he goes after his enemy for revenge. This leads Matthew to take Aria the daughter of Vittorio. Matthew takes her to his Colorado cabin to hold her prisoner. Aria has been more or less a prisoner of her father and lived a sheltered life. Aria is the complete opposite of Matthew where his is older, harsh and in control she is soft, caring and never been given control.
What Matthew didn't count on would be his growing feelings for Aria and her for him. This is a dark romance that has violence and Matthew is sometimes hard to like but overall I enjoyed their story. I hope to read more books from this author.
Matthew is part owner of the Spiked Roses along with being a mafia boss. When Vittorio Costa steals a shipment from him he goes after his enemy for revenge. This leads Matthew to take Aria the daughter of Vittorio. Matthew takes her to his Colorado cabin to hold her prisoner. Aria has been more or less a prisoner of her father and lived a sheltered life. Aria is the complete opposite of Matthew where his is older, harsh and in control she is soft, caring and never been given control.
What Matthew didn't count on would be his growing feelings for Aria and her for him. This is a dark romance that has violence and Matthew is sometimes hard to like but overall I enjoyed their story. I hope to read more books from this author.
February 11, 2020
Sinners & Gin is a great addition to the Top Shelf series.
I loved and enjoyed every minute of reading this treat.
Read it in one go and wanted more.
Mathew is a strict businessman who doesn’t change his ways.
He has a structured life.
He’s no nonsense and doesn’t tolerate deviation.
So when Mathew has something valuable stolen from him.
Well what’s a man to do except steal what’s valuable from the thief.
Aria is the daughter of a powerful mafia boss.
She has everything money can buy.
But being the daughter of a notorious gangster comes with a price.
And it’s more than meets the eye.
Their story is turbulent and comes at a cost.
But it’s also sexy and sizzling hot.
How can it not be.
When Ms. Hensley gives the reader one hot alpha dominant man and a beautiful headstrong princess!
I loved and enjoyed every minute of reading this treat.
Read it in one go and wanted more.
Mathew is a strict businessman who doesn’t change his ways.
He has a structured life.
He’s no nonsense and doesn’t tolerate deviation.
So when Mathew has something valuable stolen from him.
Well what’s a man to do except steal what’s valuable from the thief.
Aria is the daughter of a powerful mafia boss.
She has everything money can buy.
But being the daughter of a notorious gangster comes with a price.
And it’s more than meets the eye.
Their story is turbulent and comes at a cost.
But it’s also sexy and sizzling hot.
How can it not be.
When Ms. Hensley gives the reader one hot alpha dominant man and a beautiful headstrong princess!
February 20, 2020
Sinners & Gin is the sixth book in the Top Shelf series. I have read every one of the books in the Top Shelf books and I think this one is my favorite. Matthew is bound to get his revenge on a mafia king and he knows that the daughter is his way in.
Aria is a mafia princess, and yet she feels more like a prisoner than anything else. When Matthew kidnaps her to get to her father, she feels like maybe she has found her savior. But she has just traded one prison for another.
Matthew and Aria have the best chemistry. The story flows and you do not want to put the book down until you are at the end. Alta brings everything to life. I love this series.
February 11, 2020
I thought this book was very different to the others in the series as so little was about Spiked Roses and yet it was every bit a compelling as all the others. It was interesting that there was no violence since the dispute was between a Mafia Kingpin and one of the owners of Spiked Roses, but it was a nice change and right for the storyline. Matthew and Aria were like chalk and cheese but the passion between them was powerful. Tennessee was as delightful as he always is and provided some light relief from the tension. The ending was a pleasant surprise given the start and made this a unique book full of sex and passion and fulfillment.
February 13, 2020
SINfully TWISTED!
A dark head turning sinfully twisted read that has me riding the edge grabbing a hold of my senses as the dark captivating storyline toys with my emotions and had me cringing in shock, revolution yet wanting more. This is definitely not what I was expecting after reading all the other books in this series but call me crazy because this read was definitely one that got under my skin into my head and screaming holy carp this is so twisted and delicious and a perfect dark read that I loved.
A dark head turning sinfully twisted read that has me riding the edge grabbing a hold of my senses as the dark captivating storyline toys with my emotions and had me cringing in shock, revolution yet wanting more. This is definitely not what I was expecting after reading all the other books in this series but call me crazy because this read was definitely one that got under my skin into my head and screaming holy carp this is so twisted and delicious and a perfect dark read that I loved.
March 24, 2020
“I’m a bad man. A bad bad man, but I’m about to make you a bad, bad girl.”
I have a strange obsession with the Top Shelf series, considering that most of them have been 3 star reads for me. They aren’t stories of deep substance or emotional connection.....honestly they are nothing but smut with a side of criminal suspense. Most of the antiheroes aren’t even remotely the kind of men you would like, much less love. Yet I still could not dismiss this series.....I had to know all 7 of these men.
Now it is time for the sixth installment & Matthew Price’s story. I have to admit, I didn’t remember a lot about him but to be fair, it’s been a long time since I read any earlier books of the series. Regardless, I was excited for another dip in the Top Shelf “pool” and absolutely ecstatic for some Tennessee Charles. In the end, I sit here completely confused.....have my reading preferences and experience just broadened so much that this kind of writing isn’t as appealing to me anymore? Or is she just slacking more and more as this series goes on? I LOVED book one, despite it having a few “issues”. I REALLY LOVED book two, which ended up being my favorite of the series. But it’s been downhill from there, getting worse as the installments release. It’s smut, I get it....it’s not supposed to be a deep or impactful read, but that’s not my problem....”problems” I will dive into shortly.
Overall Plot/Story: ⭐️⭐️
Plot Pace/Speed: ⭐️ 1/2
Matthew Price: ⭐️⭐️
Aria Vittorio: ⭐️⭐️
Steamy Scale: 🔥🔥🔥 1/2
Book Facts:
Told in: Dual POV, present day.
About: The sixth installment of the Top Shelf series is an interconnected stand-alone that features Matthew Price’s story. It can be read by itself, but for a better reading experience I suggest reading the series in order. As one of the owners of Spiked Roses, Matthew Price is surrounded by power and sex. When a mafia leader takes something very valuable to him, he intends to seek his revenge by taking something absolutely priceless....his enemy’s daughter. The plan is solid, the goal is set, but one taste of Aria Vittorio threatens to derail it all. He will make her submit & own every inch of her before sending her back to her father......however, Aria might be the one thing he can’t let go of.
Safe Read? It does include some scenes with questionable or forced consent (including her first time) as well as some violence & kidnapping.
Ends in: HFN-ending (no extended epilogue)
My Thoughts:
Normally I don’t have enough space to list everything great about a book in this section....this time, I don’t have enough room to list the things that went wrong.
So here is my best attempt at summarizing.....
Let’s start with the biggest part of the book, the overall plot/story. Promising premise but in no way was it delivered in a believable or realistic way. The entire plot relies on this idea of Aria’s father being this dangerous, ruthless, and powerful mafia boss.....it’s what is supposed to make it exciting and suspenseful. Yet this “premise” is completely abandoned in favor of speeding up the story and creating an easy ending. The ending completely contradicts everything before it (if that makes sense). It was way too easy and it was way too rushed.....like she got to the end and had to find an easy out because she ran out of space for a true to the storyline finish.
After reading every installment so far, I know not to expect a deep & emotional read.....they are fun, smutty, and borderline ridiculous. But if I’m reading a book that features a weak(er) plot and instead relies heavy on the smut, I expect the smut to be worth it. I’m not saying this one didn’t have its moments because it does, BUT there were far too many moments that were absolutely cringe-y. As an example I present the following jewel from our heroine Aria:
“I want to show you that I can be just as dark as you if you would allow me. I want to rape you with my mouth.”
....and just in case that doesn’t drive my point home, here is another from our beloved Aria:
“Fuck me hard. Fuck me with all the animalistic power you possess!”
.....I can’t make this fuckery up, it’s THAT ridiculous.
I know I’m pushing it, but I know in some dark romance the beginning stages of intimacy are forced or feature questionable consent. It’s a slippery slope but one I don’t mind in my reads as long as the author owns up to her writing decisions and makes sure to give the antihero some redeemable qualities by the end. I HATE when any author uses the heroine’s POV to justify his actions by making the reader believe that although she verbally said no that her inner thoughts and body said “yes”....therefore the antihero really didn’t “take it” because he knew what was best for her. It’s cowardly writing at the expense of making the heroine appear weak.
You expect something positive now so I have two words that sum up my favorite part of this book......TENNESSEE CHARLES.
My Verdict:
Here’s the thing, I’m obviously in the minority here as I’ve seen Amazon reviews featuring “phenomenal”, “10 stars”, & “fantastic”. Did I read a different book? Miss something? I had to face the realization that we all have very different definitions of what makes a truly great read, so does my verdict really matter? Maybe not, but I’m still going to give it.....I would recommend this book ONLY if A: you are already a fan of this series and just want to read every installment OR B: you don’t mind a book heavy on the smut with very little substance or believability beyond that.
“I want to be bad. I want to show you that I can dance in your world if you’ll let me.”
I have a strange obsession with the Top Shelf series, considering that most of them have been 3 star reads for me. They aren’t stories of deep substance or emotional connection.....honestly they are nothing but smut with a side of criminal suspense. Most of the antiheroes aren’t even remotely the kind of men you would like, much less love. Yet I still could not dismiss this series.....I had to know all 7 of these men.
Now it is time for the sixth installment & Matthew Price’s story. I have to admit, I didn’t remember a lot about him but to be fair, it’s been a long time since I read any earlier books of the series. Regardless, I was excited for another dip in the Top Shelf “pool” and absolutely ecstatic for some Tennessee Charles. In the end, I sit here completely confused.....have my reading preferences and experience just broadened so much that this kind of writing isn’t as appealing to me anymore? Or is she just slacking more and more as this series goes on? I LOVED book one, despite it having a few “issues”. I REALLY LOVED book two, which ended up being my favorite of the series. But it’s been downhill from there, getting worse as the installments release. It’s smut, I get it....it’s not supposed to be a deep or impactful read, but that’s not my problem....”problems” I will dive into shortly.
Overall Plot/Story: ⭐️⭐️
Plot Pace/Speed: ⭐️ 1/2
Matthew Price: ⭐️⭐️
Aria Vittorio: ⭐️⭐️
Steamy Scale: 🔥🔥🔥 1/2
Book Facts:
Told in: Dual POV, present day.
About: The sixth installment of the Top Shelf series is an interconnected stand-alone that features Matthew Price’s story. It can be read by itself, but for a better reading experience I suggest reading the series in order. As one of the owners of Spiked Roses, Matthew Price is surrounded by power and sex. When a mafia leader takes something very valuable to him, he intends to seek his revenge by taking something absolutely priceless....his enemy’s daughter. The plan is solid, the goal is set, but one taste of Aria Vittorio threatens to derail it all. He will make her submit & own every inch of her before sending her back to her father......however, Aria might be the one thing he can’t let go of.
Safe Read? It does include some scenes with questionable or forced consent (including her first time) as well as some violence & kidnapping.
Ends in: HFN-ending (no extended epilogue)
My Thoughts:
Normally I don’t have enough space to list everything great about a book in this section....this time, I don’t have enough room to list the things that went wrong.
So here is my best attempt at summarizing.....
Let’s start with the biggest part of the book, the overall plot/story. Promising premise but in no way was it delivered in a believable or realistic way. The entire plot relies on this idea of Aria’s father being this dangerous, ruthless, and powerful mafia boss.....it’s what is supposed to make it exciting and suspenseful. Yet this “premise” is completely abandoned in favor of speeding up the story and creating an easy ending. The ending completely contradicts everything before it (if that makes sense). It was way too easy and it was way too rushed.....like she got to the end and had to find an easy out because she ran out of space for a true to the storyline finish.
After reading every installment so far, I know not to expect a deep & emotional read.....they are fun, smutty, and borderline ridiculous. But if I’m reading a book that features a weak(er) plot and instead relies heavy on the smut, I expect the smut to be worth it. I’m not saying this one didn’t have its moments because it does, BUT there were far too many moments that were absolutely cringe-y. As an example I present the following jewel from our heroine Aria:
“I want to show you that I can be just as dark as you if you would allow me. I want to rape you with my mouth.”
....and just in case that doesn’t drive my point home, here is another from our beloved Aria:
“Fuck me hard. Fuck me with all the animalistic power you possess!”
.....I can’t make this fuckery up, it’s THAT ridiculous.
I know I’m pushing it, but I know in some dark romance the beginning stages of intimacy are forced or feature questionable consent. It’s a slippery slope but one I don’t mind in my reads as long as the author owns up to her writing decisions and makes sure to give the antihero some redeemable qualities by the end. I HATE when any author uses the heroine’s POV to justify his actions by making the reader believe that although she verbally said no that her inner thoughts and body said “yes”....therefore the antihero really didn’t “take it” because he knew what was best for her. It’s cowardly writing at the expense of making the heroine appear weak.
You expect something positive now so I have two words that sum up my favorite part of this book......TENNESSEE CHARLES.
My Verdict:
Here’s the thing, I’m obviously in the minority here as I’ve seen Amazon reviews featuring “phenomenal”, “10 stars”, & “fantastic”. Did I read a different book? Miss something? I had to face the realization that we all have very different definitions of what makes a truly great read, so does my verdict really matter? Maybe not, but I’m still going to give it.....I would recommend this book ONLY if A: you are already a fan of this series and just want to read every installment OR B: you don’t mind a book heavy on the smut with very little substance or believability beyond that.
“I want to be bad. I want to show you that I can dance in your world if you’ll let me.”
March 2, 2020
I love the world of Spiked Roses. The men are all very strong characters who know their minds and who are going to do exactly what they want whenever they want to, and they aren't going to let anyone get in their way.
Matthew is going to get back the items that were stolen from him. To do that, he's going to steal something of equal value from the person who stole from him. That's Aria, a mafia princess. Her father stole from him, so Matthew is going to get his revenge.
I like Aria. I also felt sorry for her. She has lived in a horrible place with her father, and been so isolated. But, for all that, she's a survivor. She managed to keep herself together and not lose any of her light. I admire that.
Matthew is a good guy, mostly. I also think that he's an idiot. He eventually deals with his idiocy, but it took him a minute.
Matthew is going to get back the items that were stolen from him. To do that, he's going to steal something of equal value from the person who stole from him. That's Aria, a mafia princess. Her father stole from him, so Matthew is going to get his revenge.
I like Aria. I also felt sorry for her. She has lived in a horrible place with her father, and been so isolated. But, for all that, she's a survivor. She managed to keep herself together and not lose any of her light. I admire that.
Matthew is a good guy, mostly. I also think that he's an idiot. He eventually deals with his idiocy, but it took him a minute.
February 17, 2020
Light brought out of the dark
What an amazing addition to Top Shelf series. This dark book has all of the highs that you expect from this author and from this type of book. The author hits us with an innocent, a domineering man, an enemy meant to pay, and a love that is so powerful it will overcome all obstacles or will it. There is only one to find out, slide up to the bar and order your next favorite flavor. I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to see where the author takes us next.
What an amazing addition to Top Shelf series. This dark book has all of the highs that you expect from this author and from this type of book. The author hits us with an innocent, a domineering man, an enemy meant to pay, and a love that is so powerful it will overcome all obstacles or will it. There is only one to find out, slide up to the bar and order your next favorite flavor. I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to see where the author takes us next.
February 16, 2020
“My captive. My revenge. My problem.”
Sinner&Gin is the sixth book in the Top Shelf series by Alta Hensley but can be read as a standalone. Deeply erotic but also thrilling, this book captured my attention from the first pages.
Mathew and Aria’s story develops fairly quickly. He’s out seeking revenge on Aria’s father for stealing a precious cargo and what better way to weaken his enemy than taking his most valuable possession in return ( his daughter). But his plan goes a bit sideways when he sets his eyes on the gorgeous Mafia princess. The lust that explodes between them makes his blood boil and body ache for her touch. And Aria can’t seem to control herself around him, desires that were hidden deep within her heart surface and she finds herself drawn to the dark and dangerous man that makes her a captive.
"I loved that I had the power to dominate, the power to control, and the power to please. … When it came to women, I had become a master of how to demand ecstasy."
The chemistry between the two protagonists is off the charts. Mathew is a true alpha male with a dirty mind and a dirtier mouth. He’s dominant and expects Aria to submit to him, and she does that beautifully but she also has a fiery personality that sparks his curiosity and makes him want to know more about her. Aria has always lived a sheltered life, caged by her father’s protection but she’s not the spoiled princess everyone thinks. She can be submissive but she also has a mind of her own, she’s headstrong and wants to be independent and escape her father’s grip.
“Do not let the shadows of life darken your soul forever.”
Told from dual POV, with fast-paced action and an interesting plot, this book was a delight. I would have wanted a bit more suspense and dangerous situations but I still thoroughly enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to reading more books from this series.
*ARC provided by Give Me Book Promotions in exchange for my honest review.*
Sinner&Gin is the sixth book in the Top Shelf series by Alta Hensley but can be read as a standalone. Deeply erotic but also thrilling, this book captured my attention from the first pages.
Mathew and Aria’s story develops fairly quickly. He’s out seeking revenge on Aria’s father for stealing a precious cargo and what better way to weaken his enemy than taking his most valuable possession in return ( his daughter). But his plan goes a bit sideways when he sets his eyes on the gorgeous Mafia princess. The lust that explodes between them makes his blood boil and body ache for her touch. And Aria can’t seem to control herself around him, desires that were hidden deep within her heart surface and she finds herself drawn to the dark and dangerous man that makes her a captive.
"I loved that I had the power to dominate, the power to control, and the power to please. … When it came to women, I had become a master of how to demand ecstasy."
The chemistry between the two protagonists is off the charts. Mathew is a true alpha male with a dirty mind and a dirtier mouth. He’s dominant and expects Aria to submit to him, and she does that beautifully but she also has a fiery personality that sparks his curiosity and makes him want to know more about her. Aria has always lived a sheltered life, caged by her father’s protection but she’s not the spoiled princess everyone thinks. She can be submissive but she also has a mind of her own, she’s headstrong and wants to be independent and escape her father’s grip.
“Do not let the shadows of life darken your soul forever.”
Told from dual POV, with fast-paced action and an interesting plot, this book was a delight. I would have wanted a bit more suspense and dangerous situations but I still thoroughly enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to reading more books from this series.
*ARC provided by Give Me Book Promotions in exchange for my honest review.*
February 15, 2020
Sinners & Gin, by Alta Hensley, is the sixth book in the Top Shelf Series. These are books, ranging in darkness, that feature powerful men trying to balance their darkness in order to have the women they love. I received an ARC from Booksprout so I won't include spelling/grammar/continuity errors in my review since they should be fixed prior to publication. While this is one in a series, it is a standalone which doesn't require reading the prior novels.
Alta Hensley writes with a strong, dramatic voice. The writing is descriptive, but still immediate. However Matthew, the hero, fell a little flat for me. He just seemed so cold even when he was in the throes of passion. He kept admitting that he was a bad man, but I thought he just came off as impersonal.
On the other hand, Aria, the heroine, was awesome. She went from this sheltered young woman to someone brave enough to speak up for what she wants. Everyone in her life, including Matthew, uses her but she rises above it. Matthew should have been groveling for her forgiveness.
Matthew's character brought the rating down for me. I'd put the story at 3.5 to 4 stars. I feel that, while I was rooting for Aria to get her happy ending, I didn't have the same connection to Matthew. I prefer more fire in heroes. People who like a controlled, icy hero will adore him.
This is a safe, albeit kinky read with no OW/OM drama and no cheating. There is very explicit language and sex. This is an interesting series overall. There is a heartwarming ending to this book that was lovely and unexpected. It might not be might favorite in the series, but I'm glad I read it.
I received an ARC from Booksprout in exchange for my unbiased and honest review.
Alta Hensley writes with a strong, dramatic voice. The writing is descriptive, but still immediate. However Matthew, the hero, fell a little flat for me. He just seemed so cold even when he was in the throes of passion. He kept admitting that he was a bad man, but I thought he just came off as impersonal.
On the other hand, Aria, the heroine, was awesome. She went from this sheltered young woman to someone brave enough to speak up for what she wants. Everyone in her life, including Matthew, uses her but she rises above it. Matthew should have been groveling for her forgiveness.
Matthew's character brought the rating down for me. I'd put the story at 3.5 to 4 stars. I feel that, while I was rooting for Aria to get her happy ending, I didn't have the same connection to Matthew. I prefer more fire in heroes. People who like a controlled, icy hero will adore him.
This is a safe, albeit kinky read with no OW/OM drama and no cheating. There is very explicit language and sex. This is an interesting series overall. There is a heartwarming ending to this book that was lovely and unexpected. It might not be might favorite in the series, but I'm glad I read it.
I received an ARC from Booksprout in exchange for my unbiased and honest review.
February 17, 2020
Sinners and Gin is the sixth book in the Top Shelf series, but could be read as a stand alone. Matthew only has one thing on his mind: revenge. Kidnapping the crime boss’ daughter was part of his plan, but liking her was not. While he wants to keep her comfortable, walking away at the end of this business transaction is a must. Right?
Ohhh this series is the decadent combination of being naughty and sweet, spicy and nice, and this book was no exception! Matthew and Aria completely captured my attention from the very beginning and even when the book was over, I didn’t feel ready to leave! Matthew is driven, demands obedience, has almost a darkness inside, but is also a gentleman at times. For as harsh as he could be, he’s also tender and it was an interesting dichotomy to read which part of his personality we might get. Aria knows she’s lived a pampered life, but she hates being in the cage of her father, and now Matthew. But I loved that even though she was pure and mostly innocent, she had a wickedness that matched Matthew’s and a desire for so much more! I loved their connection, I loved their dark and steamy scenes, and I loved the events in this book. I have to say, I felt like the ending was a little too clean and perfect, but otherwise, I am completely hooked on this series and loved this addition to the Top Shelf selection!
Ohhh this series is the decadent combination of being naughty and sweet, spicy and nice, and this book was no exception! Matthew and Aria completely captured my attention from the very beginning and even when the book was over, I didn’t feel ready to leave! Matthew is driven, demands obedience, has almost a darkness inside, but is also a gentleman at times. For as harsh as he could be, he’s also tender and it was an interesting dichotomy to read which part of his personality we might get. Aria knows she’s lived a pampered life, but she hates being in the cage of her father, and now Matthew. But I loved that even though she was pure and mostly innocent, she had a wickedness that matched Matthew’s and a desire for so much more! I loved their connection, I loved their dark and steamy scenes, and I loved the events in this book. I have to say, I felt like the ending was a little too clean and perfect, but otherwise, I am completely hooked on this series and loved this addition to the Top Shelf selection!
February 17, 2020
Sinners & Gin by Alta Hensley is bk 6 in the Top Shelf series. This is Matthew Price and Aria Costa's story.
Get ready for a very dark romance read that is spankings, violent mafia kingpins, kidnappings, love/hate, fear/lust, dominant/submissive romance.
Matthew Price is one of the billionaires who own Spike Roses. When the story starts off, he has been screwed over by mafia boss Vittorio Costa. No one dare screw Matthew Price unless they are willing to cope with the fallout....and the fallout from Mob boss's actions are: he was seen/known to be the more dominant than Vittorio and Matthew ended up kidnapping Costa's daughter Aria as a form of retaliation/revenge.
This story is full of feels, action, drama, twists/turns, passion and angsty romance. We get to learn about Mafia princess Aria. She isn't what people thought. She had alot more substance to her and she gave as good as she got. The pairing between her and Matthew was actually quite great. Will she mind the Dominant Master or rebel the rules?
There's alot more than just the pairing of this couple. The story itself is great ; sizzling chemistry and fantastic characters. I look forward to more in this series.
My Rating: 4.5 stars ********
Get ready for a very dark romance read that is spankings, violent mafia kingpins, kidnappings, love/hate, fear/lust, dominant/submissive romance.
Matthew Price is one of the billionaires who own Spike Roses. When the story starts off, he has been screwed over by mafia boss Vittorio Costa. No one dare screw Matthew Price unless they are willing to cope with the fallout....and the fallout from Mob boss's actions are: he was seen/known to be the more dominant than Vittorio and Matthew ended up kidnapping Costa's daughter Aria as a form of retaliation/revenge.
This story is full of feels, action, drama, twists/turns, passion and angsty romance. We get to learn about Mafia princess Aria. She isn't what people thought. She had alot more substance to her and she gave as good as she got. The pairing between her and Matthew was actually quite great. Will she mind the Dominant Master or rebel the rules?
There's alot more than just the pairing of this couple. The story itself is great ; sizzling chemistry and fantastic characters. I look forward to more in this series.
My Rating: 4.5 stars ********
February 14, 2020
Not the dark story I was expecting…
The story begins as a captor/captive romance when Matthew decides to enact his revenge on Vittorio through his daughter, Aria. We are told that Vittorio is a ruthless, sadistic mafia boss and that he has specific plans for his daughter. When she’s eventually returned to him there’s no retaliation against Matthew – at all. The story has by then morphed into an-enemies-to-lovers romance as both Matthew and Aria realize they have real feelings for each other. Matthew is a powerful man, very demanding, Dominant and fond of punishment for disobedience. Aria is much younger, and innocent. While her initial reactions to her captivity were rational, she quickly allowed her hormones to take charge as she became fixated on sex and orgasms. The story is a quick read which perhaps explains a lot. There’s some violence, discipline through spanking, and dubious consent, along with several intense sexual encounters. This premise had the potential to be a riveting, suspenseful dark tale, but fell quite short for me in many regards.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story begins as a captor/captive romance when Matthew decides to enact his revenge on Vittorio through his daughter, Aria. We are told that Vittorio is a ruthless, sadistic mafia boss and that he has specific plans for his daughter. When she’s eventually returned to him there’s no retaliation against Matthew – at all. The story has by then morphed into an-enemies-to-lovers romance as both Matthew and Aria realize they have real feelings for each other. Matthew is a powerful man, very demanding, Dominant and fond of punishment for disobedience. Aria is much younger, and innocent. While her initial reactions to her captivity were rational, she quickly allowed her hormones to take charge as she became fixated on sex and orgasms. The story is a quick read which perhaps explains a lot. There’s some violence, discipline through spanking, and dubious consent, along with several intense sexual encounters. This premise had the potential to be a riveting, suspenseful dark tale, but fell quite short for me in many regards.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 17, 2020
I loved Aria, but Matthew left me cold.
Aria is a beautiful caged bird, finally set free when she's kidnapped for revenge against her father. Her chemistry with Matthew is off the charts, and their time together forged a strong bond - at least in her heart. I loved her personal growth, her determination to grab onto as much independence as she could in her limited situation.
I was left wanting a bit more of an emotional investment on Matthew's part. We do get an HEA, but only because of Aria's actions, not his. The whole revenge thing with her dad led to a rather anticlimactic resolution - I was hoping for a more decisive victory.
This is, as promised, a dark romance, but there's much more emphasis on the "dark" scenes of submission through punishment resulting in much less focus on the romance. The earlier books in this series showed more of the male leads' hearts, and I miss that in these more recent additions. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Aria is a beautiful caged bird, finally set free when she's kidnapped for revenge against her father. Her chemistry with Matthew is off the charts, and their time together forged a strong bond - at least in her heart. I loved her personal growth, her determination to grab onto as much independence as she could in her limited situation.
I was left wanting a bit more of an emotional investment on Matthew's part. We do get an HEA, but only because of Aria's actions, not his. The whole revenge thing with her dad led to a rather anticlimactic resolution - I was hoping for a more decisive victory.
This is, as promised, a dark romance, but there's much more emphasis on the "dark" scenes of submission through punishment resulting in much less focus on the romance. The earlier books in this series showed more of the male leads' hearts, and I miss that in these more recent additions. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
February 18, 2020
When Matthew is the victim of theft, he decides that he is going to steal something of value from the perpetrator which is the mob boss’s daughter Aria and he has devised the perfect plan to exact his revenge.
Aria may be a mafia princess but the life she has led is not one of privilege. She finds herself taken from one home where is basically a prisoner into another home where she is basically a captive however she may just find out that being with her captor may be the better situation. Matthew may appear to emerge the winner if he reclaims his missing property, but will he lose something he has started to value more in the transaction?
I really enjoyed these two together as Matthew is strong and used to being in control but Aria has an inner strength of her own that is a force to be reckoned with. She manages to challenge him at every turn and couldn’t have been a better match.
Aria may be a mafia princess but the life she has led is not one of privilege. She finds herself taken from one home where is basically a prisoner into another home where she is basically a captive however she may just find out that being with her captor may be the better situation. Matthew may appear to emerge the winner if he reclaims his missing property, but will he lose something he has started to value more in the transaction?
I really enjoyed these two together as Matthew is strong and used to being in control but Aria has an inner strength of her own that is a force to be reckoned with. She manages to challenge him at every turn and couldn’t have been a better match.
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May 4, 2020
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Blurb:
My power is absolute. My rules are law.
Structure.
Obedience.
Discipline.
I am in charge, and what I say goes. Black and white with no gray.
No one dares break the rules in my dark and twisted world… until her. Until she makes me cross my own jagged lines.
She’s untouched. Perfection. Pure.
Forbidden.
She tests my limits in all ways.
There is only one option left.
I will claim her as mine no matter how many rules are broken.
February 16, 2020
Sinners & Gin is the sixth book in the Top Shelf Series by Alta Hensley. This book is dark raw, gritty, and dirty. Everything this girl likes in her dark read.
Each book in this series is linked to one of the billionaires who run Spiked Roses. They each can be read as a standalone and I love that about the books.
A bonus in this book is we get to see more of Tennessee. I adore this man and love that he was a huge part of this book.
Matthew Price is one of the billionaires who own Spike Roses. When this book starts, he has been wronged by Vittorio Costa. No one goes up against Matthew Price.
Matthew instantly set his revenge and proved he was the more dominant than Vittorio and kidnapped his daughter Aria Costa.
Aria Costa knew what her father was like and how he handled his self in business. She also did not think she would ever meet a man more dominant than her father. No one never feared her father, but Matthew did not even flinch.
The dominance in this book from Matthew a few times irked me, yet I understood it was his personality. I also understood why Aria would defy him.
There is for me a piece that we missed from when Aria is returned. What she and Matthew had destroyed her father’s plans for her. The evil Vittorio never retaliated against Matthew. I needed a ruthless war. A fight of some sort.
The all-powerful Matthew Price found out he was smitten by Aria Vittorio.
Each book in this series is linked to one of the billionaires who run Spiked Roses. They each can be read as a standalone and I love that about the books.
A bonus in this book is we get to see more of Tennessee. I adore this man and love that he was a huge part of this book.
Matthew Price is one of the billionaires who own Spike Roses. When this book starts, he has been wronged by Vittorio Costa. No one goes up against Matthew Price.
Matthew instantly set his revenge and proved he was the more dominant than Vittorio and kidnapped his daughter Aria Costa.
Aria Costa knew what her father was like and how he handled his self in business. She also did not think she would ever meet a man more dominant than her father. No one never feared her father, but Matthew did not even flinch.
The dominance in this book from Matthew a few times irked me, yet I understood it was his personality. I also understood why Aria would defy him.
There is for me a piece that we missed from when Aria is returned. What she and Matthew had destroyed her father’s plans for her. The evil Vittorio never retaliated against Matthew. I needed a ruthless war. A fight of some sort.
The all-powerful Matthew Price found out he was smitten by Aria Vittorio.
February 16, 2020
Vittorio Costa, a mob boss, stole from Matthew. Mathew wants revenge, but not the usual. He wants to kidnap Vittorio’s daughter, Aria to exchange for his merchandise. But something happens while he hides her at his mountain home. She is not quite what he expected. He stole a mafia princess, but found a strong, caring, disobedient young woman. Mathew is a very dominant Alpha, who believes his rules must be followed or consequences will ensue. Will Aria learn to obey? Will she come to care for Mathew? Will Mathew return Aria’s feelings? What will happen when Costa returns the stolen items? Will Aria’s father be glad to have her home again? Will Aria and Mathew find a way to see each other again? I recommend you read this book to find out.
February 13, 2020
Wow... Unbelievable! Alta has done it again with another addition to the Top Shelf series. Sinners & Gin is without a doubt unstoppable!
"I loved that I had the power to dominate, the power to control, and the power to please. … When it came to women, I had become the master of how to demand ecstasy."
Throughout all 5 previous books, we have seen Matthew Price as the level headed, law abiding alpha. Now, we get to witness the man himself- in all his dominate glory when his business is in jeopardy. And damn! Matthew is one man not to reckon' with. When paired with spoiled mafia daughter, naïve- feisty Aria- it's a match perfect for the Spiked Roses co-owner himself. What's a man to do?!
Alta nailed this one out of the park, make it over the ocean. I really enjoyed this novel and really couldn't put it down. The emotion behind Aria's background gave it light to Matthew's darker side and combined this story sailed!
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
"I loved that I had the power to dominate, the power to control, and the power to please. … When it came to women, I had become the master of how to demand ecstasy."
Throughout all 5 previous books, we have seen Matthew Price as the level headed, law abiding alpha. Now, we get to witness the man himself- in all his dominate glory when his business is in jeopardy. And damn! Matthew is one man not to reckon' with. When paired with spoiled mafia daughter, naïve- feisty Aria- it's a match perfect for the Spiked Roses co-owner himself. What's a man to do?!
Alta nailed this one out of the park, make it over the ocean. I really enjoyed this novel and really couldn't put it down. The emotion behind Aria's background gave it light to Matthew's darker side and combined this story sailed!
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2020
Sinners & Gin is another phenomenal read in the Top Shelf series. You have some of your favorite Spiked Roses in this one and you will just love Tennessee even more in this one. This is Matthew's book and you will just love him. His dominance is just the right touch that Aria didn't know she needed and craved. Who is Aria you may ask? Well let me tell you she is a Mafia Princess whose daddy crossed Matthew. Yes this is a captive/captor romance that the chemistry runs red hot. Alta gives you everything you would want and more in this one. You even get a softer caring side of Matthew. I loved this book so much and really couldn't put it down. I love how I was sucked in from the very start. If you haven't picked up this series yet you need to.
February 16, 2020
Wow, Sinners & Gin is HOT!! Matthew is a hard man and runs the business with his partners with an iron fist, when something of his gets stolen it is not that he needs the money, but his pride will not let this go and decides to get even and take something of his adversary... something of much more value... his daughter....
Hensley delivered a book that it is full of order and princesses and ruling with strict hands. Click to see how it all works out for these two opposite characters. All in all, I give the book 4 outta 5 stars!
PS: Thank you to Alta Hensley and Give Me Books PR for allowing me an advanced copy of the book to read and review honestly.
Hensley delivered a book that it is full of order and princesses and ruling with strict hands. Click to see how it all works out for these two opposite characters. All in all, I give the book 4 outta 5 stars!
PS: Thank you to Alta Hensley and Give Me Books PR for allowing me an advanced copy of the book to read and review honestly.
February 10, 2020
I am in LOVE with this series.
Aria's father took something from Matthew so he takes something from her father. Her.
Matthew and Aria aren't meant to be together. They come from opposite sides almost. Enemies. But, love and hate, fear and lust are like two sides of the coin. Aria has no reason to trust anything Matthew says, but the same could be said about her father. Difference between the two is she somewhat admires Matthew. Definitely admires what he can do to her.
Matthew should hate her by her blood alone. Her father stole from him so he takes her for revenge. Some things are hardwired into Matthew and protecting women is one of them. While he may not want to want her, he does. That doesn't change his mind that she's a means to an end.
While they aren't supposed to be, they're meant to be. You can't change what you want. Who you want. But Matthew is a business man and he has his own way. Ruthless in almost everything. But her father being who he is, they can't be anything to the other and all things end. But as we've learned from these Spiked Roses guys, things hardly turn out how you first expected them to. And this is one connection you can't break.
Aria's father took something from Matthew so he takes something from her father. Her.
Matthew and Aria aren't meant to be together. They come from opposite sides almost. Enemies. But, love and hate, fear and lust are like two sides of the coin. Aria has no reason to trust anything Matthew says, but the same could be said about her father. Difference between the two is she somewhat admires Matthew. Definitely admires what he can do to her.
Matthew should hate her by her blood alone. Her father stole from him so he takes her for revenge. Some things are hardwired into Matthew and protecting women is one of them. While he may not want to want her, he does. That doesn't change his mind that she's a means to an end.
While they aren't supposed to be, they're meant to be. You can't change what you want. Who you want. But Matthew is a business man and he has his own way. Ruthless in almost everything. But her father being who he is, they can't be anything to the other and all things end. But as we've learned from these Spiked Roses guys, things hardly turn out how you first expected them to. And this is one connection you can't break.
February 15, 2020
Part of the Top shelf series, but can be read as a stand-alone book. There is much less of Spiked Roses, instead following Matthew’s need for revenge on the mafia boss who stole from him. I thought this book had great potential but honestly didn’t quite do it for me. This is still an enjoyable read but I found the transitioning from enemies to lovers a little clunky and a lighter shade of dark than I was expecting. The elements are all there, there is a good level of heat but not much suspense or plot twists. If you prefer just dipping your toe into dark romance then this could be the one for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2020
My power is absolute. My rules are law Matthew thinks it's all laid out as planned, all up until his planning hits a bump in the road.
I've read a couple of books by Alta Hensley and I've always found her talent intriguing and engaging. Sinners & Gin can be about revenge, can be out best-laid plans or even Mafia Princess'.
Safe in the shadows she watches the debauchery, she's done it a few times and always able to slid back into her rooms without anyone noticing.
His plan takes a hit but will it be enough for him to follow through? Will innocence leave a mark on him? or will his bad man persona turn the good girl naughty?
We all know revenge is best served cold but what happens when the heat gets ramped up? A dangerous game is being played will they both come out unscathed?
The story was forward-moving and kept my attention, I loved the characters and how they meshed within the storyline. Well done
I've read a couple of books by Alta Hensley and I've always found her talent intriguing and engaging. Sinners & Gin can be about revenge, can be out best-laid plans or even Mafia Princess'.
Safe in the shadows she watches the debauchery, she's done it a few times and always able to slid back into her rooms without anyone noticing.
His plan takes a hit but will it be enough for him to follow through? Will innocence leave a mark on him? or will his bad man persona turn the good girl naughty?
We all know revenge is best served cold but what happens when the heat gets ramped up? A dangerous game is being played will they both come out unscathed?
The story was forward-moving and kept my attention, I loved the characters and how they meshed within the storyline. Well done
February 10, 2020
Matthew is a man who doesn't mess around, “I take care of what belongs to me.” His final words were punctuated by opening the bedroom door." The man really is quite possessive, "I glanced down at her attire and felt a surge of primal possession. “What are you wearing? Why are you here as a kitty?” No effing way was I going to allow this." I liked this book, I liked Matthew.
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