Enrique—I control everything in my criminal empire. I was born into this life and know no other. Men cower when I look in their direction. That’s why it surprises me when a woman ready to fall off a ladder catches my attention. I don’t need a second chance at love. I bring too much darkness. I definitely don’t need a woman to complicate my life with a list of secrets nearly as long as mine. But something draws me to her. Despite my family’s warnings, I’ll pursue the woman I can’t control. I’m the man she never knew she wanted.
Elodie—I left an unhappy marriage to start a new life in a new state. I don’t need a man any more than I need a root canal. My second chance is freedom. I’m middle-aged and happy to be on my own. Besides, my past isn’t one I can share with someone outside my family. No one can know who I was. But the man who walks up my driveway and insists upon helping me is unlike any I know. Others might fear him, but I don’t. He’s a different man with me. I see the man he wants to be, but only with me.
Only fools think they can stand in our way, but they learn the same thing others have before.
I’ll burn it all to the ground before I let go.
Cartel King is an interconnecting, standalone Dark Mafia Romance with a HEA and no cliffhanger. It contains EXTRA-STEAMY scenes that will make your toes curl and your granny blush. The Cartel Brotherhood is a six-book series that’ll keep you warm at night.
Discover the four NYC rival families that make up The Syndicate Wars world. Each family has their turn to be heroes in their own series. When it’s not their family’s turn for love, discover whether they’re the villain. You’ll meet all 24 men of the Four Families throughout the interconnected series, each taking their turn to fall in love. By the end, you’ll have a love/hate relationship with them all.
The Ivankov Brotherhood The Mancinelli Brotherhood The O’Rourke Brotherhood The Cartel Brotherhood
I enjoyed this mafia romance and the twist in here definitely caught me off guard. I didn’t see it coming at all. The only thing that irked me was how often she called him “daddy.” Outside of that this had everything you want in a mafia romance. The intensity, the danger, the chemistry, the loyalty. It kept me entertained and I’m excited to see where the rest of the series goes.
I would like to start this off by saying I was actually really LOVING this book until the FMC started calling the MMC “daddy” and excessive amount. Not just during sexy scenes but in normal conversations. It was just icky for me, but YOU might love it! DNF’d at a little over 70% in
When I first saw this was a cartel romance I was so excited. Mafia books that focus on Cartel are rare but some of my favorites. Then I realized both MC’s were older and middle aged, I’m guessing based on the info around 50ish. And honestly I’m not a fan of older women in books as the MFC. But I was still excited because it was about the Cartel and I wanted to give it a chance, and surprisingly I found myself enjoying Enrique and Ellie- until about the 25% point. When it was revealed Ellie, the 50ish MFC, was not only mafia related, but actually IN the mafia, I wanted to quit. It was so unbelievable and ridiculous. If she was a bookkeeper or something like that I could believe it. But her involvement and the jobs she has done, nope. I lost a lot of interest and I was struggling to stay invested in the book. I was still curious though to see how everything tied together and what would happen, so I continued on. It wasn’t until around 75% things started to draw me back in and I was invested. But I still had a hard time with Ellie’s character. She went from being a divorced, middle aged mom of three, an author (who wrote over a hundred books in 11 years), and who used to be an accountant to a mercenary hit woman for the mob. It was all too much and very laughable. I mean she a dozen different alias in different countries, her dad was a trauma surgeon during the day and a “butcher” for the mob by night. I just couldn’t with this, there was entirely too much going on with Ellie’s character. And what really turned me off was when she started calling Enrique, Daddy. I wanted to cringe when she started calling him that. In other books I loved it, but with everything else going on in this one and everything pertaining to her, it didn’t fit for my taste. And she did outside of the bedroom. They’d be running for their life and in intense situations and she’d be calling him Daddy. However, I will say if it wasn’t for certain aspects of how her character was written, I would’ve given this book a 4-4.5. It was really good and I did like Ellie for the most part. Enrique was really great and I loved him from the start and all the side characters were great as well. I’m really interested in Enrique’s nephews stories and am definitely going into Javier story next. And I want to check out the other series as well.
The final books in the syndicate wars featuring the Diaz’s begin & it’s Enrique & Elodie’s story. Enrique is the head of the Cartel & has been for over thirty years & Elodie is a divorcee with three grown sons. From their first chance encounter their chemistry sizzled but they became friends, walk buddies & rowing buddies, they are just Enrique & Ellie no surnames, no delving into their pasts, they just enjoy each other’s company & I loved this part of the story which was a lovely slow burn romance. Then there’s a huge development & I was like WOW I didn’t see that coming & from that point I couldn’t put the book down. There are secrets, mystery, twists & turns, fast paced action & a lovely romance. I hadn’t been a fan of the Diaz’s in earlier books but once again the author converted me & I grew to love Enrique. I loved Ellie who was a strong intelligent woman. The author has written an engrossing, captivating, enthralling book with wonderful characters, a story that begins slowly but the pace increases until it’s unputdownable I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Cartel King is the 1st story arc of “The Cartel Brotherhood” the newest series by Sabine Barclay that is set in her Dark Mafia world. This story follows Enrique and his fierce leading lady. I enjoyed this book. I love reading books that include different cultures and includes snippets of the characters using their native languages. I think that is just a neat touch by Sabine. I always love and appreciate the way Sabine writes the family relationships. In each of the series that are set in this dark mafia world family has always been at the heart. I love that she writes about strong, capable and well rounded women. The heroine in this novel might have climbed up into my top 5 of the leading ladies in these series. I love that Sabine spends a lot of time with background and details that provide depth and paint a picture so you can really envision these characters. Each time I end one of her stories I get impatient because I want to find out what is going to happen next. There is always a plethora of emotions with these books. I do enjoy when she includes characters from some of her other series that take place in this world. Cartel King can be read as a standalone novel however I would definitely recommend reading the previous books in the series set in this world as a lot of things and events that occurred in the other series are referenced. Having that background would definitely provide for a more accurate understanding of things. I will say in comparison to some of the other books both the leads are in a different place in life. I found that to be a refreshing change from some of the other stories. Like a 1st or 2nd chance finding love later in life, leaves you with that feeling that it’s never too late. I have to say this book definitely kept you guessing as who villain/villains/bad people were/are. Just when you think you have it figured there would be a curve ball tossed it. So Kudos to Sabine for making us think. Overall this was a fantastic introduction to the cartel part of the syndicate war and another great edition to the Dark Mafia world.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you're looking for a dark, captivating romance that keeps you on the edge of your seat, Cartel King (Enrique) by Sabine Barclay delivers everything you could want and more. From the moment Enrique steps into the story, he pulls you in with his intensity, power, and undeniable presence. The man doesn’t do anything halfway—he rules with the kind of cold, calculating control that makes him both feared and revered. But what makes this story truly gripping is the woman who dares to stand up to him.
Elodie is the kind of heroine who refuses to be intimidated. She’s been through enough to know that trust and love aren’t given freely, and I loved how she held her own against Enrique’s overwhelming force. It’s this balance of vulnerability and strength that makes her such a compelling character. She’s not here to play games; she’s here to protect her heart—and that made the slow-burn romance between her and Enrique all the more electrifying.
I was hooked from the start by how these two characters challenged each other and broke down the walls they’ve built around themselves. Enrique's darkness, his deep-rooted need to control, and Elodie’s resilience made for an emotional rollercoaster that had me completely invested. The way their relationship unfolds is pure fire, and the passion between them is unforgettable. It’s the kind of romance that isn’t just about physical attraction—it’s about trust, vulnerability, and that moment when two broken people realize they can’t walk away from each other.
The author’s ability to create this complex world of power, secrecy, and danger kept me turning the pages, and the steamy moments? Let’s just say they were absolutely scorching. Enrique is the type of antihero who knows exactly what he wants—and once he sets his sights on Elodie, there’s no turning back. If you love mafia romance with a mix of grit, heat, and heart, Cartel King is one you won’t be able to put down.
Cartel King (Enrique) is a must-read for fans of intense, fiery, and addictive romance. It’s dark, it’s thrilling, and the chemistry between the leads is off the charts. Trust me—you won’t regret diving into this world.
Eh...Cartel King is a whole experience. So much so, my husband is questioning if I’ve fallen in love with an imaginary man. The answer…why yes…yes I have (wink). Cartel King kicks off the final Syndicate Wars series and came with smoke, heat, and absolutely no warning. This baby wasn’t rushed—it was crafted. Smooth. Intentional. Like a setup before the drop. Sabine let that story marinate—built the tension, let Enrique and Elodie’s bond get deep—real deep. And then? She flipped the whole table over. A sista wasn’t ready.
The story and plot? Twisty. Unpredictable. Full of characters I wasn’t expecting. Sabine layered this world with danger, secrets, and moments that had me sitting up like, “Oh we doing that now? Okaaaaay!”
Enrique is the jefe of the NY Colombian Cartel, and trust—he is not the one to play with. Sexy, lethal, protective—and grown, grown. He don’t need to prove he’s a king... he just moves like one. Loyal, locked in, and ready for war if it means protecting what’s his. When he loves, it’s ride-or-die—and he’s got the firepower to back every bit of it up. And Elodie? Whew weeeee, I loved her. She’s not new to this—she’s true to this. Divorced with three grown sons and walking in that “I know who I am” confidence. She absolutely steals the show. Strong, independent, full of secrets. You feel every bit of her power without her having to raise her voice. She’s the kind of heroine we don’t get nearly enough of—mature, layered, unforgettable.
Enrique and Elodie…their connection hits different—grown, magnetic, and real from the jump. That age gap? Made it even hotter. Every scene between them dripped with intensity, chemistry, and that grown-folk understanding most romances skip over.
Cartel King is for the ones who like their romance dark, their leads grown, and the tension thick. Enrique ain’t the type you survive—he’s the one you surrender to. And Elodie? She’s the quiet storm that had his whole world shifting.
3. 75 stars from me on this book 2.5 🌶️🌶️ (with kink) MMC 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ MFC ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was an interesting read and in some ways a very grown up book in that the main characters are in their 40’s and upper 50’s.
Enrique Diaz is the head of a Latin drug cartel. And he literally runs past a new neighbor of sorts as she is cleaning out her rain gutters. He ends up helping her and the two form a casual and comfortable friendship just off the basis of Enrique running past her new home and she walking the trails near it.
It turns out that neither is aware of the backstory of the other and lives they have led. They ease into their friendship but I felt certain both were attracted to each other. Enrique reveals who is and his lifestyle and responsibilities as jefe are pretty readily accepted by Eloise/Ellie. Their relationship becomes intimate after Enrique learns someone may be watching her and he assigns some employees to wathch her. This is where the story takes a turn.
It turns out Elodie is not just some divorcee with grown children who is starting over, but also a former employee of a rival cartel Enrique engages in business with. She’s like to think she is out of the business but as the story moves along she is called into action.
I was happy to read this book which I purchased on a lark. I do think parts of it was repetitive and since this is the first in this series there is a lengthy bit of world building that will affect books that come after.
The spice was pretty good but at times felt truncated or skimmed over. The funniest part for me was that by the end spicy scenes, Ellodie is literally speaking is Spanish tongue “Ay Papi!” Indeed.
This is Enrique and Elodie. I thought long and hard on what to write. This was a difficult one to digest. It started good with the two meeting and flirting. Then there was the overload of secondary characters which caused a drag and confusion of who was who and who was tied to who. A field trip that was confusing and a revelation that caused another slow down. Telling both sides of the family. Then the actual action which had both main characters in their element. The end transition to the warehouse was great. If we could go from the flirting to this - the book would have been a five. We'll see where the series goes. I do like that the female lead was the same spot in life that the male lead is.
This didn't make me like the Diaz clan like Dillan made me like the O'Rourke's. It did make me understand them a bit better. The deviousness was even more evident. As for the rest of the family, the jury is out. Considering what happened Laura, I didn't expect him to forgive as easily as he did. As for the others, only two really popped as interesting enough for a story at this time. There are already enough main characters with four other families that the number of secondary characters really glob up the works. The ones for O'Rourke got convoluted at times as well. Hopefully there won't be so many from here on out. That should smooth out the arcs. I received a free copy of this book on booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
They meet organically when he jogging by sees her on a ladder in her front yard. This starts very differently from the authors prior books. It seems to be a slow burn, later chance at love story as these two people find companionship and connection in each other. I almost thought this story wasn’t going to be for me, almost. I should have had more faith. This story is about two older adults finding each other but there is nothing sedate about their passion. When the gloves come off and the story unfolds, it is panty dissolving, steamy, hot, erotic, passionate and everything. As the author states this is not a DDlg story, but rather a willing power exchange as part of their dynamic and it is oh so hot to watch them and see their relationship. As always there is a whole arc of mafia/mob/cartel family drama that runs through the story that they must navigate. The author handles the integration so well and gives all characters meat to their contributions which fully vests you in their stories. This is spicy, this is tender, this is blushing from your cheeks to your toes. This might be the best over 40 romance I have read, with the author not only giving them all of the spice and passion, but weaving in respect that maturity and experience bring while still maintaining all of the excitement.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a new to me author and man I am blown away!!! This is such a good book you would be a fool not to read it!!! I loved the way the story develops naturally and takes you along for the ride like you are really there and experiencing things along with the characters. This couple come together in the simplest of ways and despite things they have been through they find strength in one another and each of them complete the other with things they never knew they needed or wanted. I loved how this author put together this story everything flowing and coming together naturally and things that take you by total surprise and you don't see coming. I loved every single moment of reading this book. I couldn't put it down. Every emotion, every feeling that happens comes through the pages so clear and such a joy to read. I cannot stress enough of how much I recommend this read and I so can't wait to see what this author has planned for this series. I will so be the first one in line to get the next book. If you are looking for a journey that is exciting and non-stop. A feeling of family that always has your back, and amazing chemistry between the couple and the other couples you read about this is your book. I highly recommend this read!!!!
I’ve read through all of the interconnected books up to this point and this one is by far my favorite. I stopped reading them for awhile because of the broken relationships this author created with Laura & Enrique, but because it was Enriques book I read it. Every story somehow seems to go back to the fact that “Cartel” is the worst because they target women. Frankly, the author has had every female endangered by another group which is why I get so frustrated with these stories.
I like that we get a more “adult” storyline without all the dramatics that authors usually put into most “romance” books. Ms. Barclay also included some interesting background stories of other minor characters from previous books and included some good smexy scenes. Though I would’ve like more of Enrique’s background story it was still really well written and very entertaining.
My only point of contention is the continued storyline of the Russians vs the Cartel. The whole thing was and still is the most irritating storyline. I liked the relationship Laura had with Enrique and it still frustrates me to think the author went that direction with the story. Just think of how much more fun this story could be if Laura had been part of the equation.
I recently finished reading "Cartel King (Enrique)" by Sabine Barclay and I must say, it was an exhilarating ride from start to finish. This book had everything I was looking for in a romance with intense action, steamy romance, and an engaging plot that kept me on the edge of my seat.
The chemistry between Enrique and his love interest was palpable and incredibly well-written. Sabine Barclay knows how to craft scenes that are both sexy and meaningful, adding depth to the characters' relationship amid the chaos of cartel life. The action sequences were vivid and gripping, making me feel like I was right there alongside Enrique as he navigated the dangerous world of being a mob boss.
What I appreciated most about this book was the perfect balance between the steamy romance and the thrilling action. The story never felt bogged down by too much of either, and the pacing was just right, keeping me engaged throughout.
Overall, "Cartel King (Enrique)" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good romantic thriller with well-developed characters and a plot that doesn't let up. I highly recommend it to fans of steamy romance and action-packed narratives. Five stars!
The King And His Woman ! Cartel King : The Cartel Brotherhood Book 1 ; Sabine Barclay Once Again Surprises Us With A New Series ! Only This Time It Is Like No Other ! Everything About It Is So Unexpected ! The Couple , The Dynamics , The Danger , The Risks , And Even If You Try To Figure It Out , You Won’t ! The Story Has You Captivated, Mesmerized , And Yearning For More ! The Chemistry Is Not Just Hot , It Is So Much More ! Enrique Diaz was The jefe of The Colombian Cartel He has carried the responsibility early in His life till now . Taking care of Family And The Cartel was His Life . Never really wanting anything for Himself. Elodie McCann was a Woman with a Mystery until She Meets Enrique ! She Still stayed that Mystery Woman As There Story Unfolds ! Sabine Barclay Will Have You turning The Pagers And Not Putting It Down Till You Are Satisfied With Getting The Answers That Are Rolling Through Your Head ! The Anticipation Is Worth The Wait ! Absolutely , Amazing , Certainly A Favorite !.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Okay I loved this book! Sabine Barclay has done it again. This story has all kinds of twist and turns. Plus lots of secrets as well. It definitely keeps you on your toes. Anytime that you think you have it figured out you don't. The chemistry between Enrique and Ellie is one of a kind. I highly recommend this book. If you like a great mob story with a loved story mixed in this book is for you.
Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone Get Outlook for Android Okay I loved this book! Sabine Barclay has done it again. This story has all kinds of twist and turns. Plus lots of secrets as well. It definitely keeps you on your toes. Anytime that you think you have it figured out you don't. The chemistry between Enrique and Ellie is one of a kind. I highly recommend this book. If you like a great mob story with a loved story mixed in this book is for you. A must read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I don’t know how it happens, but each book just gets better and better. Honestly the kink factor goes up another level with each one as well. These two were perfect for each other. The way the worlds interweave is done so well. Each syndicate seems to be a mess from the others perspective, but as you meet them individually, It’s mostly a persona. I knew Enrique was going to be everything I imagined. Loved that this series started out with the older(ish) leader. He met His match with Ellie (girl has some secrets), but dang his stamina. Love all the twists and turns, the strengths and backbone shows, the bedroom adventures, the devotion, and as always, the level of communication. I can’t wait to see what will happen With the rest of the family.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
First of all, if you know the stories Sabine weaves, then you know what to expect with the complex plot, thé unconventional romance, and the intrigues of the underworld that most of the characters are bound to by birth or circumstances. This book did not disappoint in the slightest. This plot is great and the characters even better. This is officially my favorite book in the Syndicate Wars World, not only for the story and the great plot, I truly did not see this plot coming. But for me this time thé book hit different due to the main characters not being from the younger generation, both have a past, and finding love later in life is center stage in this romance. This is a first person dual POV, wonderfully written and the twists and turns gives this book such a great feel. I enjoyed the first book in the Cartel Brotherhood and absolutely recommend reading it
I loved everything about this story. It’s action packed, well written and very entertaining. One thing I really loved about this story is that both Ellie and Enrique are much older, with her having grown sons. There was a major surprise that I did not anticipate and it took on a life of its own and added more to the story than I could have imagined. There are familiar names from previous books that added a lot to the story but sometimes I get lost as to who belongs to what family group. That being said, I loved the storyline and all of the unexpected events that occurred. This is a story and series that is worth reading. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
"Cartel King" by Sabine Barclay is the first book in the author's Cartel Brotherhood which is part of her larger The Syndicate Wars world. I absolutely love the way Sabine Barclay creates her stories and characters. The women are strong and while the men may be flawed Family is everything. While it is not required, as the author gives enough backstory to the interconnected characters, I do think I enjoyed this book more having read the previous books in The Syndicate Wars. As I have come to expect from this author, the story pulled me in right from the start. I know not to start a book by Sabine Barclay if I have to work the next day!! The story is captivating and continues to build throughout. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series.
The Cartel Brotherhood has begun and it is definitely something that gives this reader mixed feelings. I have looked forward to this series for some time but I will miss this world when this series is over! Sabine Barclay has brought readers and fans a story with plot twists, unexpected events, well developed characters and enough passion you may need your air conditioning on! I love that the main characters in Cartel King are older and more mature, and they are a realistic representation of their ages and experiences. This story will have readers completely immersed from the start and if they are like me they won’t be able to put this book down until they reach the end!
Wow what a read, this book was so good. Though it had a bit of a slow start, when it got going you had to keep up. It was an amazing storyline and the characters were unexpected. They just didn’t know how alike they both were. Enrique and Ellie were such great characters, I loved how this book went, it was different in a good way. Even though there were a lot of other players in this book. I was able to keep up, everything was well explained, I enjoyed reading about Ellie’s life before Enrique and Enrique’s before Ellie. Her sons were great strong characters that looked out for her, and squared up to Enrique. Amazing book. I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cartel King: (Enrique) is the first book of The Cartel Brotherhood series. The books in this series are going to be interconnected but each will be about one couple with no cliffhangers. I have to say that this book is a tomb but it is also a great reading experience. The story-line weaves a complex, intense, dark, action, steamy, and passionate romance. Elodie and Enrique are on fire together and take an emotional roller-coaster ride that keeps you fully engaged and wondering just what is going to happen next. I loved how the characters are written, they are interesting, have depth and are strong and intelligent but also vulnerable together. I loved this book and can't wait to read the next in the series.
This book is truly magnificent. It is hard to believe (since each book is its own masterpiece), but each book is better than the last. I love the FMCs. Each one is strong and yet each one is completely unique. The plots are incredible - she weaves them so perfectly. You can not guess where it is going. You will try, but... There are characters new and old. I like how the books in this inter-connected world sometimes overlap timeline wise. It allows us to see some of our "old friends" and it gives a new perspective on events in other books. Yes, I am now re-reading an earlier book and no, I will not tell you which one. This is another masterpiece.
A great story with drama, suspense, intrigue, action and romance which brings a happily ever after ending. This story has outstanding characters as well as a page turner that makes this a great story. A story about a couple who found each other later in life and quickly figured out that they were each other's soulmates even though one tried to deny it. Throughout the story the couple face many obstacles. It takes a while for their families to accept the couple being together but they do. It doesn’t take long before the couple are together, man and wife. The couple are happy and in love forever.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Barclay’s first book begins with the Cartel Brotherhood saga starting with Cartel boss: Enrique, and he meets his match with Ellie. From page one to the last, CARTEL KING takes readers on a wild journey with Enrique and Ellie as their relationship grows deeper and hotter. CARTEL VIPER: (Javier), book 2 comes out on December 2, 2025. DON’T miss it!
Right off the bat, this book pulled me in! What a page turner! I loved the connection and banter between Enrique and Elodie from the beginning. Both have pasts. This book brought suspense and some BDSM. Just imagine being a part of the mafia and what danger that brings. Elodie definitely proves to be one strong woman who cares for her family. Enrique does also. They both will stop at nothing to keep their family safe from harm. Is it possible for them to come together and have a life together? Wait til you find out!
This author has hit another home run with the start of the Cartel series. I love how she describes everything, but I especially love her characters. They are full of depth and surprises, and I can’t believe this all comes from her imagination! I didn’t think I would like the Cartel after reading about how the others think of them, but I was wrong. This author has a wonderful way of portraying each of the families that brings out the best (and worst) of them.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the first book in the new series The Cartel Brotherhood by author Sabine Barclay. This is the story of Elodie and Enrigue, their story will keep you glued to your book from the beginning. When Elodie is about to make changes she meets Enrigue and that is the beginning of their journey. There are many twists and obstacles and drama, action, danger, feelings, chemistry and attraction and enough steam.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hmmm…which is my favorite, this story or Bratva Sweetheart – it might be a tie. This story had what I was looking for: dialog, conversation, family and action. It was a whirlwind. I loved the sweet start of this story. It was so amazing to read these characters’ feelings and emotions and just being two more mature people discovering each other. There are surprises and even surprised me and it was amazing. Mature couples rule! No embarrassment, just expressing feelings.