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Donaghey Brothers #1
Retribution
As an undercover FBI agent, Kimi is no stranger to life-threatening situations. When her newest assignment leads to the Donaghey brothers, one of Boston's biggest crime families, Kimi is confident she can handle the pressure.
But as she becomes embroiled in the lives of Finn and Lorcan, she realizes she might not be able to separate her job as Kim from the heart of Kimi quite so easily this time.
On the cusp of a mob war, Kimi must decide who to believe and who to save. Sometimes doing the right thing means doing something very wrong.
This a lower steam open door, enemies to lovers, forbidden romance.
But as she becomes embroiled in the lives of Finn and Lorcan, she realizes she might not be able to separate her job as Kim from the heart of Kimi quite so easily this time.
On the cusp of a mob war, Kimi must decide who to believe and who to save. Sometimes doing the right thing means doing something very wrong.
This a lower steam open door, enemies to lovers, forbidden romance.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2019
130 people are currently reading
1207 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Million
9 books284 followersWendy Million is an award winning author whose contemporary romances about strong women and troubled men have captivated her loyal readers. She is the author of the romantic suspense series The Donaghey Brothers, and the contemporary romance When Stars Fall, Miss Matched, and the NA sports romance, Saving Us.
Writing as W. Million, she has written The Bellerive Royals, The Tucker Family Billionaires, and the Little Falls small town series. Find those here: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
When not writing, Wendy enjoys spending time in or around the water. She lives in Ontario, Canada with two beautiful daughters, two cute pooches, and one handsome husband (who is grateful she doesn’t need two of those).
Sign up for her newsletter at: www.wendymillion.com to receive free bonus chapter content from all my novels.
Follow her on Instagram for bookish pictures and news: https://www.instagram.com/million.wendy/
Writing as W. Million, she has written The Bellerive Royals, The Tucker Family Billionaires, and the Little Falls small town series. Find those here: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
When not writing, Wendy enjoys spending time in or around the water. She lives in Ontario, Canada with two beautiful daughters, two cute pooches, and one handsome husband (who is grateful she doesn’t need two of those).
Sign up for her newsletter at: www.wendymillion.com to receive free bonus chapter content from all my novels.
Follow her on Instagram for bookish pictures and news: https://www.instagram.com/million.wendy/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
January 20, 2025
Not my usual read, but I liked it! Thank GOD it had an actual plot, because a lot of other books I’ve read in this genre have no plot. My motto is: if you don’t have a plot you shouldn’t publish. I enjoyed the information you found out along the way even though it was a little predictable. My favorite thing about this book, overall, was that it was a very believable story. I felt like this could happen in real life. I hate when this genre is outrageous and unbelievable, but this book did ‘believable’ pretty well.
January 20, 2025
This was okay…it was slow and needed way more than it was giving. Lorcan and Kim needed more chemistry and for a Mafia Romance was lackluster.
January 12, 2020
What an amazingly spectacular debut for this author! Wendy Million has hit a home run with Retribution! For a debut novel, this was executed extremely well. Very impressive for the author’s premiere. It is a notable and fantastic story that had me spellbound from the first chapter. She has undeniably captured the essence of a mafia romance.
Kimi is an undercover agent that has gotten herself into quite a situation when she takes a job involving two antagonistic brothers of the Boston Crime Syndicate. Kimi’s detective skills come in handy when Lorcan Donaghey hires her to be his 'everything' girl, but he has an ulterior motive, and that is that he believes his brother Finn killed their father and he wants proof. While searching and exploring possibilities Kim uncovers information that could ultimately get her executed.
Lorcan and Finn Donaghey couldn’t be any more opposite than white and black. Lorcan is the younger of the two, he is the brains, the strategist and Finn is the muscle, the one to fear. Kim must get close to Finn in order to gain his confidence and perhaps some truths, but her attraction to Lorcan may just be the most dangerous of the two.
~𝙈𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙪𝙨𝙥 𝙤𝙛 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄’𝙢 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙘𝙝 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙖𝙣𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩.~
Neither brother knows her real identity and she is constantly covering up and bringing suspicion to herself. I was on the edge of my seat so many times for fear of her being discovered, for her cover to be blown. Every turn, every situation, Kim was dancing on the edge of danger.
There is a big twist amidst all the cloak and dagger circumstances. This undercover agent is connected to the two crime brothers in a way you will never guess. Be sure to pick up this intense dramatic thriller to find out what that connection is.
~𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚. 𝘿𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙮, 𝙢𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚.~
I truly enjoy mafia reads and this did not disappoint. There was no grazing over the danger and perilous situations. The author lays it out and presents it to the reader like a buffet. There is murder, loyalty, betrayal, vengeance and passion, everything you need for a good mafia story!
𝟒* 𝐦𝐨 𝐜𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐢 (𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭) 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬!
Kimi is an undercover agent that has gotten herself into quite a situation when she takes a job involving two antagonistic brothers of the Boston Crime Syndicate. Kimi’s detective skills come in handy when Lorcan Donaghey hires her to be his 'everything' girl, but he has an ulterior motive, and that is that he believes his brother Finn killed their father and he wants proof. While searching and exploring possibilities Kim uncovers information that could ultimately get her executed.
Lorcan and Finn Donaghey couldn’t be any more opposite than white and black. Lorcan is the younger of the two, he is the brains, the strategist and Finn is the muscle, the one to fear. Kim must get close to Finn in order to gain his confidence and perhaps some truths, but her attraction to Lorcan may just be the most dangerous of the two.
~𝙈𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙪𝙨𝙥 𝙤𝙛 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄’𝙢 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙘𝙝 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙖𝙣𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩.~
Neither brother knows her real identity and she is constantly covering up and bringing suspicion to herself. I was on the edge of my seat so many times for fear of her being discovered, for her cover to be blown. Every turn, every situation, Kim was dancing on the edge of danger.
There is a big twist amidst all the cloak and dagger circumstances. This undercover agent is connected to the two crime brothers in a way you will never guess. Be sure to pick up this intense dramatic thriller to find out what that connection is.
~𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚. 𝘿𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙮, 𝙢𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚.~
I truly enjoy mafia reads and this did not disappoint. There was no grazing over the danger and perilous situations. The author lays it out and presents it to the reader like a buffet. There is murder, loyalty, betrayal, vengeance and passion, everything you need for a good mafia story!
𝟒* 𝐦𝐨 𝐜𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐢 (𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭) 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬!
August 29, 2019
If I didn't have a job, I would have gotten through this book so much faster. I never wanted to put it down. This story was fantastic! Kimi is a badass, and Lorcan...all I could think about was how badly I want a Lorcan of my own. Minus the mafia part, of course. I can't wait to see what comes next.
October 9, 2024
This was such a great mafia romance! The way this author played it all out on the page was so satisfying! This is a great read if you like
MAFIA
SECRET IDENTITY
PLOT TWISTS AND SECRETS
MINDBLOWING ENDING
Thank you to the author and the author agency for the early copy!
MAFIA
SECRET IDENTITY
PLOT TWISTS AND SECRETS
MINDBLOWING ENDING
Thank you to the author and the author agency for the early copy!
January 14, 2025
fmc is kind of annoying but I realize it’s necessary for the plot / the character she plays / the role she has in the story. I almost DNFd but I am glad I finished! Glad the first book gave answers while being intrigued to read the next. These aren’t really my vibe of books (reading for book club) so I’m not sure if I’ll read the others.
January 19, 2025
It got slightly better but I still stand by the opinion that there’s no chemistry between Lorcan and Kim and Kim is insufferable
October 14, 2019
This was such an amazing read. @million.wendy Thanks so much for proivding me a digital ARC for an honest review. This book was perfect blend of mystery, thriller and romance jammed packed with badass characters and enough action. A pitch perfect start of the series. I cannot wait to read next installment in the series :D
Kim is all set to move from working for Carys to start working for Donaghey brothers. While working for Carys meant meeting dangerous people for illegal arms deals and cleaning up paper work. Working for Donaghey brothers is far more treacherous and the dangers here are far wilder than that of Carys's. Danaghey brothers, known as one of the strongest equally dangerous mafia brothers, are at the cusp of internal war going on between the two brother.
Being an undercover FBI agent, Kim has never had trouble dealing with life threatening situations. She's vicious and brave. Soon she become the 'everything woman' for Lorcan Donaghey, and not long after, Lorcan and Kim get involved in each other. But... It's not your typical romantic relationship. On the other hand, Finn Donaghey is a closed book which Kim is having a hard time reading.
Among the everyday cleaning and collecting proof against Donaghey brothers, Kim has a war going on with her heart as well. But everything gets convoluted when Kim comes across the fact that Donaghey family is responsible for her father's and brother's death. There are harder decisions to make now.
Kim is all set to move from working for Carys to start working for Donaghey brothers. While working for Carys meant meeting dangerous people for illegal arms deals and cleaning up paper work. Working for Donaghey brothers is far more treacherous and the dangers here are far wilder than that of Carys's. Danaghey brothers, known as one of the strongest equally dangerous mafia brothers, are at the cusp of internal war going on between the two brother.
Being an undercover FBI agent, Kim has never had trouble dealing with life threatening situations. She's vicious and brave. Soon she become the 'everything woman' for Lorcan Donaghey, and not long after, Lorcan and Kim get involved in each other. But... It's not your typical romantic relationship. On the other hand, Finn Donaghey is a closed book which Kim is having a hard time reading.
Among the everyday cleaning and collecting proof against Donaghey brothers, Kim has a war going on with her heart as well. But everything gets convoluted when Kim comes across the fact that Donaghey family is responsible for her father's and brother's death. There are harder decisions to make now.
October 6, 2019
If you like romance, suspense, and strong female leads, I cannot recommend this book enough.
The story itself is amazing. Wendy does a great job of dangling just enough information to keep us on our toes and keep us guessing. The pacing is perfect. I never felt rushed, but the plot moved fast enough that I didn't loose interest, either. I feel like there was enough mystery and action that even someone who doesn't love romance would like this read.
But who am I kidding? I love romance, and this story had plenty of that, too. The characters were well rounded and complex. Finn and Lorcan are two very different brothers, but both are incredibly sexy. In real life, I'd avoid them both like the plague, because danger. But they make excellent book boyfriends. The tension between the characters is so well done.
I think my favorite thing about this book, and what sets it apart from other thriller/romance and mafia-type books I've read, is the female lead. In my experience, female leads in these types of stories tend to either be damsels in distress or complete hard-asses. Kimi is neither. She's certainly strong, smart, capable and logical, but she's also vulnerable and emotional.
Overall, great read. I highly recommend.
The story itself is amazing. Wendy does a great job of dangling just enough information to keep us on our toes and keep us guessing. The pacing is perfect. I never felt rushed, but the plot moved fast enough that I didn't loose interest, either. I feel like there was enough mystery and action that even someone who doesn't love romance would like this read.
But who am I kidding? I love romance, and this story had plenty of that, too. The characters were well rounded and complex. Finn and Lorcan are two very different brothers, but both are incredibly sexy. In real life, I'd avoid them both like the plague, because danger. But they make excellent book boyfriends. The tension between the characters is so well done.
I think my favorite thing about this book, and what sets it apart from other thriller/romance and mafia-type books I've read, is the female lead. In my experience, female leads in these types of stories tend to either be damsels in distress or complete hard-asses. Kimi is neither. She's certainly strong, smart, capable and logical, but she's also vulnerable and emotional.
Overall, great read. I highly recommend.
August 30, 2019
This book is amazing !!!!!!.....
Retribution has become one of the best suspense novel I have read in a while.
The plot/Storyline is filled with unexpected twists and turns which will leave you at the edge of your seat eager to turn the next page and reach the end. It has an equal blend of suspense and romance.. which makes it a spicy combination.
Coming to the characters.....
Each character has been portrayed in a unique way. Each having their own unique twist and background which will make you want to dwell more into their lives. Each character has been built with careful consideration which engages with the storyline and adds to the increasing suspense to the novel as you read ahead.
The book ends on a high note, which will leave you in anticipation with the urge to know what happens next in the characters live and for book 2 to be released.
Retribution has become one of the best suspense novel I have read in a while.
The plot/Storyline is filled with unexpected twists and turns which will leave you at the edge of your seat eager to turn the next page and reach the end. It has an equal blend of suspense and romance.. which makes it a spicy combination.
Coming to the characters.....
Each character has been portrayed in a unique way. Each having their own unique twist and background which will make you want to dwell more into their lives. Each character has been built with careful consideration which engages with the storyline and adds to the increasing suspense to the novel as you read ahead.
The book ends on a high note, which will leave you in anticipation with the urge to know what happens next in the characters live and for book 2 to be released.
August 21, 2019
From the first I was stuck in the story and didn't want to put it down. Kimi goes from working with one dangerous person to working for two far more dangerous people. Along the way secrets about her past, unanswered questions and a great deal of pain make her situation far more dangerous. This book holds thrills, danger, love and betrayal and keeps you on the seat of your pants to find out what's next.
I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to read an advanced copy before publication and have no regrets doing so.
I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to read an advanced copy before publication and have no regrets doing so.
August 26, 2019
💙💙💙💙✨
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this book, a good pace, perfect balance between the suspense and the romance story between them, not to say about intimate moments were very well done and felt real, I liked the characters, how she tries to be herself in a man’s world and that she doesn’t bend for anyone, that she has empathy and I liked him for being all man and showing his soft side when with her and also being jealous and trying to protect her.
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this book, a good pace, perfect balance between the suspense and the romance story between them, not to say about intimate moments were very well done and felt real, I liked the characters, how she tries to be herself in a man’s world and that she doesn’t bend for anyone, that she has empathy and I liked him for being all man and showing his soft side when with her and also being jealous and trying to protect her.
August 29, 2019
Wendy Million is truly a talented writer! Reading this book is like riding a rollercoaster; so many ups and downs you just can't put the book down. A good mix between adventure, thrills and romance. Definitely a 5/5 and I can read this book again and again. The characters are all so realistic you just want the sequels to come out so you can find out what happens to them. You won't regret buying this book
February 5, 2020
I am new to this author and I absolutely loved the suspense and the romance of this novel! Wendy Million knows the right way to balance between the two, to make a great book!! Five romantically suspenseful stars!!! Kudos, Wendy!!!!
October 19, 2024
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
Spice: 🌶🌶 out of 5
Tropes:
🖤Mafia Romance Thriller
🩶Morally Grey MMC's
❤️🔥Slow Burn
😱Twists and Suspense
🫂Forced Proximity
🔪 Enemies to Lovers
✨️Review:
This was freaking amazing! More a mafia crime thriller with a side of romance, this played like a Scorsese movie! Akin to a gender bent The Departed, this is a book that demands your attention! And I mean this in the best way possible because it was fantastically riveting.
We have an exceptionally sharp minded FMC in Kim; whip smart, weapons trained, undercover, and playing a dangerous game of hiding amongst the enemy. Corruption, violence and family secrets begin to bleed over and blur the lines of her conscience. There are a couple subplots in the balance, secrets being unearthed and they reveal themselves in ways that are so effortlessly organic but still surprising and thrilling to the reader!
The twists are gut punching and the dialog is intricately woven and dense. This is highly character driven but there are sequences of action or suspense peppered in that's equally hand wringing and brimming with life.
The main trio of characters are incredibly complex and vibrant. The more broody, angsty, mysterious brother, Finn, plays like a mafia Darkling. His more cool headed, tactician brother, Lorcan, slowly softens and captures Kin's heart as her mission continues.
But it's the ugly truths surfacing that begin shattering her resolve and her focus on her targets. There's a Russian doll mystery here that keeps opening to show us more and more, that nothing is as it seems. I'm helplessly obsessed with this magnificently layered drama. Bring on book 2 because omg I'm clawing the walls for it!
Spice: 🌶🌶 out of 5
Tropes:
🖤Mafia Romance Thriller
🩶Morally Grey MMC's
❤️🔥Slow Burn
😱Twists and Suspense
🫂Forced Proximity
🔪 Enemies to Lovers
✨️Review:
This was freaking amazing! More a mafia crime thriller with a side of romance, this played like a Scorsese movie! Akin to a gender bent The Departed, this is a book that demands your attention! And I mean this in the best way possible because it was fantastically riveting.
We have an exceptionally sharp minded FMC in Kim; whip smart, weapons trained, undercover, and playing a dangerous game of hiding amongst the enemy. Corruption, violence and family secrets begin to bleed over and blur the lines of her conscience. There are a couple subplots in the balance, secrets being unearthed and they reveal themselves in ways that are so effortlessly organic but still surprising and thrilling to the reader!
The twists are gut punching and the dialog is intricately woven and dense. This is highly character driven but there are sequences of action or suspense peppered in that's equally hand wringing and brimming with life.
The main trio of characters are incredibly complex and vibrant. The more broody, angsty, mysterious brother, Finn, plays like a mafia Darkling. His more cool headed, tactician brother, Lorcan, slowly softens and captures Kin's heart as her mission continues.
But it's the ugly truths surfacing that begin shattering her resolve and her focus on her targets. There's a Russian doll mystery here that keeps opening to show us more and more, that nothing is as it seems. I'm helplessly obsessed with this magnificently layered drama. Bring on book 2 because omg I'm clawing the walls for it!
November 11, 2024
Kim is leaving the freezing warehouse angry that it was a waste of time. She had attended in her boss Carys's place to make the arms deal, but whatever he wanted with Carys, it didn't have anything to do with weapons.
As she climbs into the SUV with her backup her phone buzzes sending a chill down her spine. While they were in the meeting ignoring her phone could have been explained, but there is no way she is opening the message from her FBI handler in the presence of anyone. She may be Carys's everything girl, but having her cover blown could endanger her life.
Finn and Lorcan Donaghey were on the edge of war. Lorcan suspected his brother of being behind their father's murder and when he meets Carys at a charity event and sets eyes on her everything girl he is determined that she come work for him and find his father's murderer.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Kim is in the perfect position in Carys's organization when the FBI finds Carys's connection to the Donaghey brothers and set up a chance meeting between the old friends at a charity event.
But in looking into the murder of their father she finds clues to another murder leading her back to the Donagheys. A murder she is determined to solve.
If you love smoking hot morally gray mafia men then you will love this story. Kim's world is turned upside down when she meets Lorcan, but even if she could turn him against his brother the secret she holds could destroy them both.
This book is full of danger and unexpected twists! Highly recommend!
As she climbs into the SUV with her backup her phone buzzes sending a chill down her spine. While they were in the meeting ignoring her phone could have been explained, but there is no way she is opening the message from her FBI handler in the presence of anyone. She may be Carys's everything girl, but having her cover blown could endanger her life.
Finn and Lorcan Donaghey were on the edge of war. Lorcan suspected his brother of being behind their father's murder and when he meets Carys at a charity event and sets eyes on her everything girl he is determined that she come work for him and find his father's murderer.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Kim is in the perfect position in Carys's organization when the FBI finds Carys's connection to the Donaghey brothers and set up a chance meeting between the old friends at a charity event.
But in looking into the murder of their father she finds clues to another murder leading her back to the Donagheys. A murder she is determined to solve.
If you love smoking hot morally gray mafia men then you will love this story. Kim's world is turned upside down when she meets Lorcan, but even if she could turn him against his brother the secret she holds could destroy them both.
This book is full of danger and unexpected twists! Highly recommend!
November 21, 2019
Wendy Million is a new-to-me author, so I had no idea what to expect when I received a complimentary copy of Retribution. First of all, let me start by saying, "Wow!" Second of all, I love romantic suspense, and I was thoroughly impressed with this one. It gripped me from the very beginning, and definitely had me on the edge of my seat. Third of all...wait...can I say that? Third of all? Anyway, Kim and Lorcan---hot, hot, hot! 🔥🔥Their chemistry crackled, sizzled, popped, and practically leapt from the pages of my kindle from the very first meeting. Finn is sexy and charismatic, and those accents...hmmm!😍His conversations with Kim had my imagination on full throttle!😂
And Kim--she is my kind of heroine! She's smart, fierce, confident, and very sexy. She didn't mind putting a man in his place. Ooh, but Kim did like to play with fire a little too much! That woman darn near gave me a heart attack a couple of times! Some of the men she had to be around were very, very ruthless, and Kim didn't let that hold her back.
And what can I say about Lorcan's brother, Finn?! One minute I wanted to smack him for being such a jerk with Kim, the next I was rooting for him and Carys! I thought there was hope for Finn, but that man had my emotions all over the place. I couldn't quite figure him out...villain or friend?! 🤔But then that ending... Wowza! Ms. Million, why did you do this to me?! I need an epilogue!! 😭😭
And Kim--she is my kind of heroine! She's smart, fierce, confident, and very sexy. She didn't mind putting a man in his place. Ooh, but Kim did like to play with fire a little too much! That woman darn near gave me a heart attack a couple of times! Some of the men she had to be around were very, very ruthless, and Kim didn't let that hold her back.
And what can I say about Lorcan's brother, Finn?! One minute I wanted to smack him for being such a jerk with Kim, the next I was rooting for him and Carys! I thought there was hope for Finn, but that man had my emotions all over the place. I couldn't quite figure him out...villain or friend?! 🤔But then that ending... Wowza! Ms. Million, why did you do this to me?! I need an epilogue!! 😭😭
April 26, 2020
I got the eCopy of this book from Wendy herself in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much. She did such an awesome job writing this book. I literally did not expect the book to be so consuming and mind blowing.
Honestly, I haven't been able to read an adult romance book in a while. After reading this book, I am literally compelled to pick up this genre again. In addition to this, I was just blown away by the mystery till the end, honestly. Kimi was such a badass woman. I hated Finn from the beginning though :/ The other Donaghey brother, Lorcan, who's character was built up slowly during the story and obviously I found him better than Finn. I loved the friendship of Carys and Kim🤩.
Here's the gist of the story.
As an undercover FBI agent, Kimi is no stranger to life-threatening situations. When her newest assignment leads to the Donaghey brothers, one of Boston's biggest crime families, Kimi is confident she can handle the pressure. On the cusp of a mob war, Kimi must decide who to believe and who to save. Sometimes doing the right thing means doing something very wrong
Can't wait for the next book...
Honestly, I haven't been able to read an adult romance book in a while. After reading this book, I am literally compelled to pick up this genre again. In addition to this, I was just blown away by the mystery till the end, honestly. Kimi was such a badass woman. I hated Finn from the beginning though :/ The other Donaghey brother, Lorcan, who's character was built up slowly during the story and obviously I found him better than Finn. I loved the friendship of Carys and Kim🤩.
Here's the gist of the story.
As an undercover FBI agent, Kimi is no stranger to life-threatening situations. When her newest assignment leads to the Donaghey brothers, one of Boston's biggest crime families, Kimi is confident she can handle the pressure. On the cusp of a mob war, Kimi must decide who to believe and who to save. Sometimes doing the right thing means doing something very wrong
Can't wait for the next book...
April 3, 2025
I loved everything about this book, I couldn't put it down oI loved everything about this book, I couldn't put it down once I got started.
Kimi (Kim) is a badass FBI undercover agent trying to uncover hidden secrets to take down The Donaghey Brothers. Trying to find Lorcan's fathers killer and whoever killed her brother has her crossing lines and getting too close to being caught when things go wrong with her handler's extraction.
Lorcan has touch her and die vibes towards Kim. While trying his best not to become too close to her he falls in love and in the process tries to fire her to keep her safe. He has many hidden agendas but his brother Finn is always one step ahead, all for his secret task that he won't tell anyone about.
This story had me constantly guessing what was going to happen next or who the killers were. But the plot twist that came in end threw me so far off I was beside myself. If you enjoy mafia romances please read this book!! I can't wait to start the next book and read more about Finn and Carys. nce I got started.
Kimi (Kim) is a badass FBI undercover agent trying to uncover hidden secrets to take down The Donaghey Brothers. Trying to find Lorcan's fathers killer and whoever killed her brother has her crossing lines and getting too close to being caught when things go wrong with her handler's extraction.
Lorcan has touch her and die vibes towards Kim. While trying his best not to become too close to her he falls in love and in the process tries to fire her to keep her safe. He has many hidden agendas but his brother Finn is always one step ahead, all for his secret task that he won't tell anyone about.
This story had me constantly guessing what was going to happen next or who the killers were. But the plot twist that came in end threw me so far off I was beside myself. If you enjoy mafia romances please read this book!! I can't wait to start the next book and read more about Finn and Carys. nce I got started.
October 12, 2024
ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Retribution follows Kimi, Lorcan and Finn. Kimi is an undercover FBI agent, who is selected to infiltrate the Donaghey crime family. Kimi is selected by the FBI based on her fluency in Irish Gaelic. Lorcan chooses her to be his ‘everything’ girl. He sets Kimi on a mission to find out is Finn was behind their fathers mysterious death. In the midst of everything, Kimi finds out that she is linked to the brothers in a way she never thought possible.
This was such a fun read. The book was told from Kimi’s perspective. I only wish we got more than a glimpse into Lorcan’s mind.
Retribution follows Kimi, Lorcan and Finn. Kimi is an undercover FBI agent, who is selected to infiltrate the Donaghey crime family. Kimi is selected by the FBI based on her fluency in Irish Gaelic. Lorcan chooses her to be his ‘everything’ girl. He sets Kimi on a mission to find out is Finn was behind their fathers mysterious death. In the midst of everything, Kimi finds out that she is linked to the brothers in a way she never thought possible.
This was such a fun read. The book was told from Kimi’s perspective. I only wish we got more than a glimpse into Lorcan’s mind.
March 9, 2020
An excellent start of the series....This book was a combination of my two favourite genres and have a quite a compelling plot! It unrolls in a way that holds you hooked very early on. And holds you till the end.. Two brothers ,one woman......Too many unanswered questions.....Blood , drama ,lust, love...It kept me hooked all night long! 👏👏👏. Waiting for the next part now....
September 1, 2019
I really love this book...it kept me anticipating until the last page and I couldn't put the book down until I finished it...a must read for all readers...the author did a wonderful job with the story!!
September 2, 2019
What a page-turner! Million's style in this FBI suspense novel reminded me of series by Julie Garwood, Melinda Leigh, and Kendra Elliot with its empowered female lead, angst-filled plot, and hot romance. Can't wait to see more by this author.
October 29, 2024
★★★★☆ (4.25/5)
Thank the publishing gods for re-releases because, honestly, without one, Retribution might have slipped under my radar. And what a shame that would have been! Wendy Million delivers a page-turning fusion of mafia and FBI grit, and the romance acting as the carefully balanced backbone rather than the whole show! Let’s just say, if you’re into books that keep you guessing until the very last chapter, then buckle up. Million doesn’t just feed you the story – she lets you think you’re solving it, only to throw curveballs that land with perfect timing, never feeling forced or overly dramatic.
The plot throws us into the undercover world of Kimi, an FBI agent determined to help take down Boston’s Irish Mob. When Lorcan Donaghey, a mobster with a few skeletons in his closet (and probably in his basement), hires her to seduce his older brother, Finn, to uncover his hidden agenda, the stakes get wild. We’re talking murky family secrets, dangerous mind games, and loyalties that blur faster than a double-agent operation. Million sets up an intricate, high-stakes chess game – just when you think you have it all figured out, she hits you with twists that land like a sucker punch, keeping things fresh without veering into soap-opera drama.
Character-wise, Retribution does not disappoint. Kimi’s wit is sharp, her resolve sharper, and watching her juggle the dangerous games between the Donaghey brothers is, honestly, thrilling. Lorcan has that intense streak that’s impossible to resist, while Finn? Well, he’s the snarky, cold-hearted puzzle you want to solve. Million crafts each character with depth, making you root for and question them in equal measure.
Retribution is the kind of book you’ll devour in a sitting, only to find yourself craving more of that mafia romance fix with an FBI twist. And thankfully there is more because this is just the beginning of Kimi's journey.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts and rating are entirely my own and were not influenced by receiving the ARC.
Thank the publishing gods for re-releases because, honestly, without one, Retribution might have slipped under my radar. And what a shame that would have been! Wendy Million delivers a page-turning fusion of mafia and FBI grit, and the romance acting as the carefully balanced backbone rather than the whole show! Let’s just say, if you’re into books that keep you guessing until the very last chapter, then buckle up. Million doesn’t just feed you the story – she lets you think you’re solving it, only to throw curveballs that land with perfect timing, never feeling forced or overly dramatic.
The plot throws us into the undercover world of Kimi, an FBI agent determined to help take down Boston’s Irish Mob. When Lorcan Donaghey, a mobster with a few skeletons in his closet (and probably in his basement), hires her to seduce his older brother, Finn, to uncover his hidden agenda, the stakes get wild. We’re talking murky family secrets, dangerous mind games, and loyalties that blur faster than a double-agent operation. Million sets up an intricate, high-stakes chess game – just when you think you have it all figured out, she hits you with twists that land like a sucker punch, keeping things fresh without veering into soap-opera drama.
Character-wise, Retribution does not disappoint. Kimi’s wit is sharp, her resolve sharper, and watching her juggle the dangerous games between the Donaghey brothers is, honestly, thrilling. Lorcan has that intense streak that’s impossible to resist, while Finn? Well, he’s the snarky, cold-hearted puzzle you want to solve. Million crafts each character with depth, making you root for and question them in equal measure.
Retribution is the kind of book you’ll devour in a sitting, only to find yourself craving more of that mafia romance fix with an FBI twist. And thankfully there is more because this is just the beginning of Kimi's journey.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts and rating are entirely my own and were not influenced by receiving the ARC.
October 27, 2024
Kimi is deep undercover in the organized crime business as Kim, simply doing her job. She ends up with the Donaghey brothers, hired by one brother (Lorcan), to investigate the other brother (Finn), trying to uncover who killed their father, just doing her job… until she finds out that they may be connected to her deceased older brother. Now she's trying to do her job, finding the information she needs to build a case against them for the FBI, trying to dig deeper to find out more information about the job she was hired to do, find out information about her brother's unsolved murder, trying not to fall for Lorcan all the while just trying to stay alive and keep her story straight. Is she able to find out the information she needs for all of her investigations without getting the lines blurred between Kimi and Kim?
I enjoyed this story, it's not your typical mafia trope.
I enjoyed this story, it's not your typical mafia trope.
October 19, 2024
Have I ever mentioned what a slüt I am for a good Mafia romance?! This book hit all the right spots.
In Retribution, you’ll find:
🖤 FBI agent x Irish Mafia
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 Touch her & ☠️
🖤 Banter
🖤 Plot twists
🖤 Family drama & feuding
🖤 Whodunnit?
While this book was not very steamy, it more than made up for it in plot. I was hooked! There are so many secrets between Kim, Lorcan, and Finn - you don’t know who to trust. The plot twists had my jaw on the floor. Kim is such a bad ass FMC. She’s always ready to join the fight. Lorcan is chef’s kiss, a boss with a heart. Plus, he has an accent and he has a cute Irish nickname for her!
I NEED to know what happens next! I can’t wait to read the second book in the Donaghey Brothers series.
In Retribution, you’ll find:
🖤 FBI agent x Irish Mafia
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 Touch her & ☠️
🖤 Banter
🖤 Plot twists
🖤 Family drama & feuding
🖤 Whodunnit?
While this book was not very steamy, it more than made up for it in plot. I was hooked! There are so many secrets between Kim, Lorcan, and Finn - you don’t know who to trust. The plot twists had my jaw on the floor. Kim is such a bad ass FMC. She’s always ready to join the fight. Lorcan is chef’s kiss, a boss with a heart. Plus, he has an accent and he has a cute Irish nickname for her!
I NEED to know what happens next! I can’t wait to read the second book in the Donaghey Brothers series.
September 10, 2020
Great romantic suspense read! The author brings strong characters and weaves a captivating story that had me glued to the pages from the first page up to the last one. She does a fantastic job developing the story and brings it to life with vividly painted scenes as well as the drama,action and surprises along the way. I loved this book and am looking forward to the next one. Highly recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
October 25, 2024
WOW
Kim is an undercover agent deep in the mafia business, trying to take down these organizations. When she meets Lorcan and needs to work under him because she is the only agent who can speak Irish.
Lorcan hires Kim to pretend to get close to his brother to find out if his brother killed their dad. The longer she is with them both, the more she uncovers things that happened in her past and she is falling for Lorcan.
This was a pretty good book. I loved Kim and Lorcan’s chemistry and I was kept on my toes waiting to see if Kim gets caught under their noses.
Kim is an undercover agent deep in the mafia business, trying to take down these organizations. When she meets Lorcan and needs to work under him because she is the only agent who can speak Irish.
Lorcan hires Kim to pretend to get close to his brother to find out if his brother killed their dad. The longer she is with them both, the more she uncovers things that happened in her past and she is falling for Lorcan.
This was a pretty good book. I loved Kim and Lorcan’s chemistry and I was kept on my toes waiting to see if Kim gets caught under their noses.
October 11, 2020
Kimi is an FBI agent brought in undercover to stop a war between brothers of a mafia family. Lorcan Donaghey brings Kim in to help him prove his brother was responsible for the murder of their father As the story unfolds Kimi uncovers ties between the Donaghey's and her family. At the same time the chemistry grows between herself and Lorcan. A story of secrets, crime families and undeniable attraction. The story had suspense, tension and a good storyline. I found the story to be intriguing and held my interest throughout. I recommend for anyone who enjoys FBI stories and romantic suspense.
September 11, 2020
Romantic Suspense has NEVER looked Sooo Good!
I found this to be a superb storyline that grabs you right from the start keeping you engrossed and on edge throughout the whole book!
Great characters that will keep your interest extremely well.
The chemistry, sweetness, and twists in plot kept things interesting.
This review has been voluntarily submitted for your consideration.
I found this to be a superb storyline that grabs you right from the start keeping you engrossed and on edge throughout the whole book!
Great characters that will keep your interest extremely well.
The chemistry, sweetness, and twists in plot kept things interesting.
This review has been voluntarily submitted for your consideration.
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