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Built for Mercy
Sophie Reyes isn’t afraid of the dark. She was raised in it.
With a badge on her hip and a vendetta in her veins, she’s spent years hunting down the men who murdered her father. The only problem? Her pursuit leads her straight into the hands of Maverick Mercer—a powerful, enigmatic man whose control over the city’s underworld is as intoxicating as it is terrifying.
Maverick has one rule: stay away from Sophie Reyes.
She’s trouble. A cop. A threat to the empire his family has built. But the moment she steps into his world, defiant and dangerous, he can’t look away. She’s a storm in the making, and when she turns her fury on him?
He wants to feel every drop of it.
Their collision is inevitable. Their chemistry? Explosive. And when Maverick makes Sophie an offer—the truth about her father’s murder, in exchange for one favor—the line between justice and revenge becomes dangerously thin.
Because Sophie may have sworn to uphold the law, but when it comes to Maverick Mercer?
She’s willing to break every rule in the book.
A dark and filthy romance filled with obsession, power plays, and a dangerous love that could destroy them both.
This book contains graphic and sensitive material that may trigger some readers. It is intended for audiences 18+. Please check CW/TW before reading.
With a badge on her hip and a vendetta in her veins, she’s spent years hunting down the men who murdered her father. The only problem? Her pursuit leads her straight into the hands of Maverick Mercer—a powerful, enigmatic man whose control over the city’s underworld is as intoxicating as it is terrifying.
Maverick has one rule: stay away from Sophie Reyes.
She’s trouble. A cop. A threat to the empire his family has built. But the moment she steps into his world, defiant and dangerous, he can’t look away. She’s a storm in the making, and when she turns her fury on him?
He wants to feel every drop of it.
Their collision is inevitable. Their chemistry? Explosive. And when Maverick makes Sophie an offer—the truth about her father’s murder, in exchange for one favor—the line between justice and revenge becomes dangerously thin.
Because Sophie may have sworn to uphold the law, but when it comes to Maverick Mercer?
She’s willing to break every rule in the book.
A dark and filthy romance filled with obsession, power plays, and a dangerous love that could destroy them both.
This book contains graphic and sensitive material that may trigger some readers. It is intended for audiences 18+. Please check CW/TW before reading.
362 pages, Paperback
First published April 22, 2025
22 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
March 22, 2025
Oh My Goodness!! Where do u even begin!!
Overall Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spice Rating: 4🌶️
I LOVED this book so much. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book so quickly, I was immediately hooked from the start!! Sophie Reyes is out trying to seek revenge on her father’s murderer, when she stumbles into Maverick Mercer, the man who knows the truth about what happened to her father, and is trying to keep her away from it. The writing style was so descriptive and detailed, I could not put this book down! The Chemistry between Sophie and Maverick starts in CHAPTER ONE! I mean, what more could u ask for. There was so much Banter within this book and it was done perfectly. Maverick is THE PERFECT book boyfriend 😍😍 and I already miss this world. If you’re looking for a captivating, enthralling, and addictive dark romance book, on April 22 this is the book for you!! Thankyou To Caiytlin and Book Funnel for sending me this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Never stop writing Caitlyn, cannot wait to read more of your work ❤️❤️
Overall Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spice Rating: 4🌶️
I LOVED this book so much. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book so quickly, I was immediately hooked from the start!! Sophie Reyes is out trying to seek revenge on her father’s murderer, when she stumbles into Maverick Mercer, the man who knows the truth about what happened to her father, and is trying to keep her away from it. The writing style was so descriptive and detailed, I could not put this book down! The Chemistry between Sophie and Maverick starts in CHAPTER ONE! I mean, what more could u ask for. There was so much Banter within this book and it was done perfectly. Maverick is THE PERFECT book boyfriend 😍😍 and I already miss this world. If you’re looking for a captivating, enthralling, and addictive dark romance book, on April 22 this is the book for you!! Thankyou To Caiytlin and Book Funnel for sending me this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Never stop writing Caitlyn, cannot wait to read more of your work ❤️❤️
March 20, 2025
First off, I’d like to thank Caitlyn and Crimson XO Publishing for sending me the ARC of Built for Mercy in exchange for an honest review🖤
overall rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice rating: 5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Sophie Reyes has always embraced her darkness, she is a strong willed woman who knows exactly what she wants out of life. One of those things? Avenging her father’s death. The night she goes to confront the man responsible, she comes face to face with another tainted soul. Maverick Mercer is every bit charming and desirable as he is dark and depraved. She is everything he can’t have, but the only one he wants.
“Misery loves company, Sophie. And I’ve found I quite enjoy yours.”
Reading this book was like coming up for air after being trapped under water. I laughed, I cried (multiple times) and couldn’t. put. it. down. There wasn’t a moment in this book where I was bored, the mayhem that Sophie and Maverick get into will keep you on your toes throughout the entire thing. The emotional turmoil that Sophie battles will tear your heart out, and staple it right back in, just to tear it out again.
And the spice? I can’t even think about it without getting hot and bothered again.
“Maverick was an artist of arousal.”
The spice is plentiful, queue Oprah gif of her saying “you get a car! and you get a car!” but instead of a car it’s butt plugs and vibrators. This book offers a plethora of kinks, we witness Sophie live out her darkest desires and fantasies and boy are they H O T.
“It’s always been me. And, now it’s you, too.”
This book is for anyone who embraces their inner darkness, who lusts after a life where they don’t have to hide. It’s for those who struggle with their mind and find it hard to ask for help. This book sees you, and loves you for all your faults. Caitlyn, thank you for this. This book is something I didn’t know I needed, but I’m better because of it.
overall rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice rating: 5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Sophie Reyes has always embraced her darkness, she is a strong willed woman who knows exactly what she wants out of life. One of those things? Avenging her father’s death. The night she goes to confront the man responsible, she comes face to face with another tainted soul. Maverick Mercer is every bit charming and desirable as he is dark and depraved. She is everything he can’t have, but the only one he wants.
“Misery loves company, Sophie. And I’ve found I quite enjoy yours.”
Reading this book was like coming up for air after being trapped under water. I laughed, I cried (multiple times) and couldn’t. put. it. down. There wasn’t a moment in this book where I was bored, the mayhem that Sophie and Maverick get into will keep you on your toes throughout the entire thing. The emotional turmoil that Sophie battles will tear your heart out, and staple it right back in, just to tear it out again.
And the spice? I can’t even think about it without getting hot and bothered again.
“Maverick was an artist of arousal.”
The spice is plentiful, queue Oprah gif of her saying “you get a car! and you get a car!” but instead of a car it’s butt plugs and vibrators. This book offers a plethora of kinks, we witness Sophie live out her darkest desires and fantasies and boy are they H O T.
“It’s always been me. And, now it’s you, too.”
This book is for anyone who embraces their inner darkness, who lusts after a life where they don’t have to hide. It’s for those who struggle with their mind and find it hard to ask for help. This book sees you, and loves you for all your faults. Caitlyn, thank you for this. This book is something I didn’t know I needed, but I’m better because of it.
April 14, 2025
Man this book had me in a chokehold and I loved every second of it!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Maverick and Sophie’s story *chefs kiss*. I loved everything about them and couldn’t get enough. The banter and the mutual stalking! Oh and the spice, it was definitely spicing!
Tropes
•Enemies to lovers
•Criminal and Detective
•Touch her and die
•Reluctant Obsession
•Forced proximity
I can’t recommend this book enough! It does touch on some heavy subjects, so please check the triggers!
Thank you Caitlyn for letting ARC read your book!
This review is my own
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Maverick and Sophie’s story *chefs kiss*. I loved everything about them and couldn’t get enough. The banter and the mutual stalking! Oh and the spice, it was definitely spicing!
Tropes
•Enemies to lovers
•Criminal and Detective
•Touch her and die
•Reluctant Obsession
•Forced proximity
I can’t recommend this book enough! It does touch on some heavy subjects, so please check the triggers!
Thank you Caitlyn for letting ARC read your book!
This review is my own
November 30, 2025
"Her hair was windswept and tangled, her eyes crazed and wild with lust, her chest heaved. Her chaos was utterly fucking breathtaking."
Oh my shaylas. My Mav and Soph. My babies!
Like calls to like and they kept showing it again and again. The way these both complemented each other's darkness and accepted each other with all their flaws? Breathtaking.
I absolutely adore these two; broken moral compass and all. They are toxic and dangerous but they are full of love and respect.
They are darkness in a world full of evil. But they are light in the way they want to better the world. Do they do it in a way thats legal and right? Absolutely not. But they do it with the right intentions and I love that. LIKE CALLS TO LIKE!
I adore Caitlyn and her way with words, and I absolutely loved going on this journey with Maverick and Sophie. ✨🤍
Oh my shaylas. My Mav and Soph. My babies!
Like calls to like and they kept showing it again and again. The way these both complemented each other's darkness and accepted each other with all their flaws? Breathtaking.
I absolutely adore these two; broken moral compass and all. They are toxic and dangerous but they are full of love and respect.
They are darkness in a world full of evil. But they are light in the way they want to better the world. Do they do it in a way thats legal and right? Absolutely not. But they do it with the right intentions and I love that. LIKE CALLS TO LIKE!
I adore Caitlyn and her way with words, and I absolutely loved going on this journey with Maverick and Sophie. ✨🤍
April 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
MMC - Maverick Mercer
FMC - Sophie Reyes
Built For Mercy was a recommendation from a book bestie and I never ignore her recommendations.
Dark romance / morally gray is not usually my go-to read and thus far, I’ve only read a hand full of books in that category and I can say that I only put this book down to force myself to go to sleep.
Both MCs and the story kept me on my toes from the first word to the last.
She’s a detective for the Newark PD and he’s a cartel boss but what connects is much deeper than just attraction.
The spicy scenes are HHHHOOOOTTTT 🥵
I connected deeply with the triggering subjects presented throughout the book. This was a book I didn’t know I needed!!
And because this book was my first by Caitlyn and now she’s an auto read to me, I’m going to read her previous books too.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
MMC - Maverick Mercer
FMC - Sophie Reyes
Built For Mercy was a recommendation from a book bestie and I never ignore her recommendations.
Dark romance / morally gray is not usually my go-to read and thus far, I’ve only read a hand full of books in that category and I can say that I only put this book down to force myself to go to sleep.
Both MCs and the story kept me on my toes from the first word to the last.
She’s a detective for the Newark PD and he’s a cartel boss but what connects is much deeper than just attraction.
The spicy scenes are HHHHOOOOTTTT 🥵
I connected deeply with the triggering subjects presented throughout the book. This was a book I didn’t know I needed!!
And because this book was my first by Caitlyn and now she’s an auto read to me, I’m going to read her previous books too.
May 9, 2025
Honestly this book had cute moments but mostly it was just corny… the MMC and FMC were very immature, the plot was very rushed and a lot of things weren’t explained enough and overall the story line was very vanilla
April 22, 2025
*ARC Reader* This book is extremely captivating. The characters feel real and are ones people can definitely relate to in terms of internal battles and their effects on relationships. (I know I relate Sophie in more ways than one). The passion and understanding in this book is something I haven’t seen so far in books like this. From the moment I picked this book up to the moment I finished it I had a hard time putting it down. It’s an easy read for being on the darker side and completely pulls you into the story. There were a few moments that I was confused but I didn’t stay that way for long. I would 100% recommend. I loved the writing style so much. This world is living rent free in my head. Maverick is book boyfriend that I will continue to talk about to everyone. Thank you so much Caitlyn P. Tajon for trusting me to give an honest review on your book!!!
April 9, 2025
ARC review!
****May contain spoilers****
Thank you for letting me be part of the arc team! This story was a mix of Fifty Shades and Romeo and Juliet and that made it entertaining and captivating. I love the balance of Mavericks character and the love the two have together. Not your average love story that is for sure!
****May contain spoilers****
Thank you for letting me be part of the arc team! This story was a mix of Fifty Shades and Romeo and Juliet and that made it entertaining and captivating. I love the balance of Mavericks character and the love the two have together. Not your average love story that is for sure!
March 22, 2025
**ARC Review**
Beautiful, absolutely stunning.
Firstly, this MMC can COME AT ME all damn day. Next stalker romance ARC is me outside his window. The devil in a designer suit with hands, mouth and cock to match. You won't catch me at confession anytime soon. I can guarantee that. I punched my ticket down below with all the sinful thoughts I had about this man.
The FMC cracked me wide wide open. Full on praise to the author for her attention and devotion to the representation of eating disorders in Dark Romance. I felt so SEEN. Representation in this area MATTERS. My heartfelt gratitude to Caitlyn for her honesty and care as well as her ability to show healing and hope.
This story was a dark and delicious immersion. A journey of pain, love, suffering, redemption and finding solace in surprising places. The chemistry of these two MCs is what dreams are made of. Two shadowed souls, damaged beyond repair and interpreting themselves as not worthy of love or salvation; I 👏 WAS 👏 LIVING 👏.
10/10. A must have for the mafia dark romance lover.
Beautiful, absolutely stunning.
Firstly, this MMC can COME AT ME all damn day. Next stalker romance ARC is me outside his window. The devil in a designer suit with hands, mouth and cock to match. You won't catch me at confession anytime soon. I can guarantee that. I punched my ticket down below with all the sinful thoughts I had about this man.
The FMC cracked me wide wide open. Full on praise to the author for her attention and devotion to the representation of eating disorders in Dark Romance. I felt so SEEN. Representation in this area MATTERS. My heartfelt gratitude to Caitlyn for her honesty and care as well as her ability to show healing and hope.
This story was a dark and delicious immersion. A journey of pain, love, suffering, redemption and finding solace in surprising places. The chemistry of these two MCs is what dreams are made of. Two shadowed souls, damaged beyond repair and interpreting themselves as not worthy of love or salvation; I 👏 WAS 👏 LIVING 👏.
10/10. A must have for the mafia dark romance lover.
March 29, 2025
Ay, DIOS MIO is right because this book had me feral in the first ten pages. Sophie Reyes is a cop on a revenge mission, and instead of staying in her lane, she crashes headfirst into Maverick Mercer — the morally grey, suit-wearing, emotionally constipated man of all my dark romance dreams.
From Chapter One, the banter is filthy, the tension is sinful, and Maverick? That man could commit crimes against me and I’d say thank you. His mouth? Lethal. His hands? Biblical. His vibe? Life-ruining.
And Sophie? She’s more than just a badass — her story cuts deep. Major shoutout to Caitlyn for handling tough topics like eating disorders with so much care and nuance, all while still serving spice and emotional chaos.
I devoured this book.
Caitlyn, if you’re reading this: blink twice if Maverick is real. And NEVER stop writing.
From Chapter One, the banter is filthy, the tension is sinful, and Maverick? That man could commit crimes against me and I’d say thank you. His mouth? Lethal. His hands? Biblical. His vibe? Life-ruining.
And Sophie? She’s more than just a badass — her story cuts deep. Major shoutout to Caitlyn for handling tough topics like eating disorders with so much care and nuance, all while still serving spice and emotional chaos.
I devoured this book.
Caitlyn, if you’re reading this: blink twice if Maverick is real. And NEVER stop writing.
April 22, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
📕: Built For Mercy by Caitlyn P. Tajon
Why you’ll love this book!!
Mutual Pinning + Stalking
Rough, Messy, Reckless
Forced Proximity
Morally Grey MMC
Touch Her and ☠️
Criminal x Detective
Enemies To Lovers
I loved this book the banter , stalking and main characters had me hooked from the beginning.. I love how the FMC was also strong and fearless usually there’s just a strong male lead and not always a strong confident woman and I ate this up!! I love how Sophie was getting revenge for her father’s death when she thinks no one is watching and incomes and obsessed Maverick!!!
📕: Built For Mercy by Caitlyn P. Tajon
Why you’ll love this book!!
Mutual Pinning + Stalking
Rough, Messy, Reckless
Forced Proximity
Morally Grey MMC
Touch Her and ☠️
Criminal x Detective
Enemies To Lovers
I loved this book the banter , stalking and main characters had me hooked from the beginning.. I love how the FMC was also strong and fearless usually there’s just a strong male lead and not always a strong confident woman and I ate this up!! I love how Sophie was getting revenge for her father’s death when she thinks no one is watching and incomes and obsessed Maverick!!!
March 21, 2025
OMG! I can not get enough of this book. I absolutely love Sophie and Mav. This book was raw and real, and I felt so much for these characters. The banter was great—the plot chef's kiss. I want to reread it already! I could not put this down!!
March 24, 2025
4.5⭐️
First off, i want to thank Caitlyn and Crimson XO publishing for letting me read the ARC of this book!
Oh. My. Gosh. I LOVED double standards and double crossed when i read them last summer. I loved Liam and Callie so much. But, Maverick and Sophie? Goals. Maverick is absolutely amazing. So possessive, yet loving. The way he treats Sophie>>>>
Everyone needs to read this book when it releases. It is a standalone, but you do see Liam and Callie from the previous books. I would highly recommend reading those before reading this so you understand their story and get to know Sophie a little better.
Excuse me while i dream about Maverick Mercer 😍😍😍
First off, i want to thank Caitlyn and Crimson XO publishing for letting me read the ARC of this book!
Oh. My. Gosh. I LOVED double standards and double crossed when i read them last summer. I loved Liam and Callie so much. But, Maverick and Sophie? Goals. Maverick is absolutely amazing. So possessive, yet loving. The way he treats Sophie>>>>
Everyone needs to read this book when it releases. It is a standalone, but you do see Liam and Callie from the previous books. I would highly recommend reading those before reading this so you understand their story and get to know Sophie a little better.
Excuse me while i dream about Maverick Mercer 😍😍😍
April 15, 2025
**Thanks to Caitlyn and BookFunnel for getting this ARC to me!!**
Built for Mercy is a fast-paced, high-stakes dark romance with a gritty edge and emotional undertones that give it real heart. From the very beginning, the tension between Sophie and Maverick jumps off the page—and once it starts, it doesn’t let up.
I appreciated how the author handled trauma and emotional wounds with a level of care that made the story feel grounded, even amid the wild twists. The emotional complexity added surprising depth without overshadowing the main narrative. That balance is tough to strike, and Caitlyn pulls it off gracefully.
Sophie is a character you don’t easily forget. She’s tough, flawed, and guarded to a fault—but that vulnerability makes her feel human. At times, I struggled with her choices (and definitely wanted her to go to therapy!), but by the end, I was rooting for her. And Maverick? Definitely intense, definitely hot, and deeply devoted—everything a dark romance MMC needs to be.
There were moments that felt a little over-the-top or rushed, but the emotional core of the story kept me engaged. One quote that really stuck with me was:
“To let other people make you feel like you're less than [any of that] is a shame.”
It’s a small line, but it shows the story’s heart.
Overall, Built for Mercy delivers tension, steam, and emotion in equal measure. It may not have been my usual style, but I’m glad I gave it a chance—and I know fans of intense, emotional dark romance will eat this one up.
Built for Mercy is a fast-paced, high-stakes dark romance with a gritty edge and emotional undertones that give it real heart. From the very beginning, the tension between Sophie and Maverick jumps off the page—and once it starts, it doesn’t let up.
I appreciated how the author handled trauma and emotional wounds with a level of care that made the story feel grounded, even amid the wild twists. The emotional complexity added surprising depth without overshadowing the main narrative. That balance is tough to strike, and Caitlyn pulls it off gracefully.
Sophie is a character you don’t easily forget. She’s tough, flawed, and guarded to a fault—but that vulnerability makes her feel human. At times, I struggled with her choices (and definitely wanted her to go to therapy!), but by the end, I was rooting for her. And Maverick? Definitely intense, definitely hot, and deeply devoted—everything a dark romance MMC needs to be.
There were moments that felt a little over-the-top or rushed, but the emotional core of the story kept me engaged. One quote that really stuck with me was:
“To let other people make you feel like you're less than [any of that] is a shame.”
It’s a small line, but it shows the story’s heart.
Overall, Built for Mercy delivers tension, steam, and emotion in equal measure. It may not have been my usual style, but I’m glad I gave it a chance—and I know fans of intense, emotional dark romance will eat this one up.
April 11, 2025
Thank you so much to Caitlyn for allowing me to be an ARC reader! I always promise to give honest reviews no matter one so here’s mine! This was such a good book! The MFC is a detective and the MMC is a cartel leader. Sophie is out to get revenge for the murder of her father when she stumbles upon Maverick Mercer. He promises to help her find her father’s murderer in exchange for her help. This book showed how difficult love can be especially when you’re drawn to someone you know you shouldn’t be. What I really enjoyed about this book was there didn’t seem to be a lot of “fluff”. You were told everything you needed to know and I felt the story never dragged on as some do. I absolutely loved how the characters grew in this book and helped each other become even better versions of themselves. I will definitely be recommending this book to everyone I know!
May 3, 2025
🤍 ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏ ᴄᴀɪᴛʟʏɴ & ᴄʀɪᴍꜱᴏɴ xᴏ ᴘᴜʙʟɪꜱʜɪɴɢ ꜰᴏʀ ꜱᴇɴᴅɪɴɢ ᴍᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴀʀᴄ ᴏꜰ ʙᴜɪʟᴛ ꜰᴏʀ ᴍᴇʀᴄʏ ɪɴ ᴇxᴄʜᴀɴɢᴇ ꜰᴏʀ ᴍʏ ʜᴏɴᴇꜱᴛ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ. 🤍
╭──────༺♡༻──────╮
𝕊𝕙𝕖 𝕥𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕟𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕤𝕚𝕟,
𝕒 𝕥𝕖𝕞𝕡𝕥𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕤𝕠 𝕤𝕥𝕣𝕠𝕟𝕘 𝕀 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕𝕟’𝕥
𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕚𝕤𝕥 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕒𝕟𝕪 𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕘𝕖𝕣.
╰──────༺♡༻──────╯
Sophie & Maverick’s story is brutally raw, unhinged, and beautiful. They are both incredible badasses who are independent, strong, and confident enough to take on the world. But together? Together, they are a diabolical and ruthless team, meant to avenge the wrong-doings of others and bring justice to the deserving, all while dealing with struggles of their own. Sophie & Mav both fought demons that would have eaten them alive. Thankfully they found each other and they each demolished the walls that they both had firmly erected in place to prevent others from witnessing their vulnerabilities and together they conquered those demons.
╭──────༺♡༻──────╮
𝕊𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕕𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕣.
𝕊𝕥𝕣𝕚𝕡𝕡𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕪 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕔𝕠𝕟𝕗𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕟𝕔𝕖 𝕒𝕥
𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕡𝕠𝕚𝕟𝕥. 𝕋𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕦𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕝 𝕤𝕙𝕖
𝕢𝕦𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕙. 𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕚𝕗 𝕀
𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕 𝕠𝕦𝕥 𝕨𝕙𝕠, 𝕀’𝕕 𝕞𝕒𝕜𝕖 𝕤𝕦𝕣𝕖
𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕟𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕕𝕠 𝕚𝕥
𝕥𝕠 𝕒𝕟𝕪𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕖𝕝𝕤𝕖. 𝕀 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕖 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕔𝕚𝕗𝕦𝕝.
𝔹𝕦𝕥 𝕀 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕒𝕝𝕤𝕠 𝕓𝕖 𝕒 𝕞𝕠𝕟𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕣.
𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖𝕣?
𝕀’𝕕 𝕓𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕠𝕝𝕖
𝕗𝕦𝕔𝕜𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕝𝕕 𝕕𝕠𝕨𝕟.
╰──────༺♡༻──────╯
Book: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 5/5
╭──────༺♡༻──────╮
𝕊𝕙𝕖 𝕥𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕟𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕤𝕚𝕟,
𝕒 𝕥𝕖𝕞𝕡𝕥𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕤𝕠 𝕤𝕥𝕣𝕠𝕟𝕘 𝕀 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕𝕟’𝕥
𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕚𝕤𝕥 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕒𝕟𝕪 𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕘𝕖𝕣.
╰──────༺♡༻──────╯
Sophie & Maverick’s story is brutally raw, unhinged, and beautiful. They are both incredible badasses who are independent, strong, and confident enough to take on the world. But together? Together, they are a diabolical and ruthless team, meant to avenge the wrong-doings of others and bring justice to the deserving, all while dealing with struggles of their own. Sophie & Mav both fought demons that would have eaten them alive. Thankfully they found each other and they each demolished the walls that they both had firmly erected in place to prevent others from witnessing their vulnerabilities and together they conquered those demons.
╭──────༺♡༻──────╮
𝕊𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕕𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕣.
𝕊𝕥𝕣𝕚𝕡𝕡𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕪 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕔𝕠𝕟𝕗𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕟𝕔𝕖 𝕒𝕥
𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕡𝕠𝕚𝕟𝕥. 𝕋𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕦𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕝 𝕤𝕙𝕖
𝕢𝕦𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕙. 𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕚𝕗 𝕀
𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕗𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕 𝕠𝕦𝕥 𝕨𝕙𝕠, 𝕀’𝕕 𝕞𝕒𝕜𝕖 𝕤𝕦𝕣𝕖
𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕟𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕕𝕠 𝕚𝕥
𝕥𝕠 𝕒𝕟𝕪𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕖𝕝𝕤𝕖. 𝕀 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕖 𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕔𝕚𝕗𝕦𝕝.
𝔹𝕦𝕥 𝕀 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕒𝕝𝕤𝕠 𝕓𝕖 𝕒 𝕞𝕠𝕟𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕣.
𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕙𝕖𝕣?
𝕀’𝕕 𝕓𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕠𝕝𝕖
𝕗𝕦𝕔𝕜𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕝𝕕 𝕕𝕠𝕨𝕟.
╰──────༺♡༻──────╯
Book: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 5/5
March 25, 2025
I truly couldn't put this book down. The pacing was spot-on, keeping the story engaging without ever dragging, while also allowing the emotional moments to hit just right. The dialogue is sharp and energetic, and the romance is both fiery and intense. From the very start, the book wasted no time in building tension between Sophia and Maverick, drawing me in immediately. The chemistry and tension between these two are absolutely electrifying—not to mention the banter! Sparks ignite from their very first encounter, and their undeniable, magnetic pull is impossible to resist. She’s a cop, determined to avenge her father’s death, while he’s a criminal grappling with family abandonment issues. Despite their opposing worlds, they are irresistibly drawn to each other.
Their encounters are intense, passionate, and sizzling, with an undercurrent of danger that makes every page more thrilling than the last. But beyond the raw attraction and undeniable lust, this story delves into deep personal struggles, the moral complexities of police work, and the pursuit of justice.
A huge thank you to Caitlyn and Book Funnel for trusting me with this ARC. This is hands down one of the best dark romances I’ve ever read! Too often, dark romances focus on the intensity but lack a strong plot—but you absolutely outdid yourself with this one!
Their encounters are intense, passionate, and sizzling, with an undercurrent of danger that makes every page more thrilling than the last. But beyond the raw attraction and undeniable lust, this story delves into deep personal struggles, the moral complexities of police work, and the pursuit of justice.
A huge thank you to Caitlyn and Book Funnel for trusting me with this ARC. This is hands down one of the best dark romances I’ve ever read! Too often, dark romances focus on the intensity but lack a strong plot—but you absolutely outdid yourself with this one!
April 23, 2025
ARC Review: 5⭐️
Built For Mercy is a dark romance featuring Maverick Mercer & Sophie Reyes.
Sophie is a detective who is determined to figure out who was responsible for her feathers death. During her investigation she comes across Maverick and he becomes suspicious of her.
Mavericks family has taken over Sophie’s father’s cartel following his passing and Maverick is curious why Sophie is poking around now, and if she’s come to reclaim her family’s position.
Maverick decides to have Sophie followed to keep tabs on her, and in doing so he becomes fixated on her. Eventually he realizes she’s not coming to take her rightful position, and calls off his guards.
Sophie, who figured out what Maverick was doing and notices the lack of followers she has, decides she wants to confront him. She becomes fixated on him, and sabotage his date.
Maverick & Sophie can’t deny the attraction they have for one another, and things between them becomes explosive. But when truths are revealed can they work together or will the darkness consume them?
If you enjoy dark romance with obsessive main characters, do yourself a favour and add this book to your TBR immediately! It was absolute dirty perfection and I don’t think I’ll be able to stop thinking about these two for a long time to come!
Thank you Caitlyn for the ARC, I can’t wait to read more of your work!
Built For Mercy is a dark romance featuring Maverick Mercer & Sophie Reyes.
Sophie is a detective who is determined to figure out who was responsible for her feathers death. During her investigation she comes across Maverick and he becomes suspicious of her.
Mavericks family has taken over Sophie’s father’s cartel following his passing and Maverick is curious why Sophie is poking around now, and if she’s come to reclaim her family’s position.
Maverick decides to have Sophie followed to keep tabs on her, and in doing so he becomes fixated on her. Eventually he realizes she’s not coming to take her rightful position, and calls off his guards.
Sophie, who figured out what Maverick was doing and notices the lack of followers she has, decides she wants to confront him. She becomes fixated on him, and sabotage his date.
Maverick & Sophie can’t deny the attraction they have for one another, and things between them becomes explosive. But when truths are revealed can they work together or will the darkness consume them?
If you enjoy dark romance with obsessive main characters, do yourself a favour and add this book to your TBR immediately! It was absolute dirty perfection and I don’t think I’ll be able to stop thinking about these two for a long time to come!
Thank you Caitlyn for the ARC, I can’t wait to read more of your work!
May 5, 2025
Built for Mercy is dark, intense, and completely addictive.
Sophie Reyes is a force of nature—fierce, determined, and haunted by the murder of her father. Her search for justice leads her straight into the path of Maverick Mercer, the king of the city’s criminal underworld—and the one man she should avoid at all costs.
But from the moment they meet, the pull between them is magnetic and dangerous. Sophie is sworn to uphold the law. Maverick thrives outside of it. Their chemistry is explosive, their morals conflicting, and their pasts more intertwined than either of them expected.
Caitlyn P. Tajon delivers a gritty slow-burn romance with sharp writing, emotional depth, and just the right amount of tension. If you love morally gray heroes, revenge plots, and heroines who don’t back down, this one’s for you.
Favorite Quotes:
“She was the storm no one saw coming—wild, untamed, and on a collision course with everything he thought he controlled.”
“Justice is clean. Revenge is personal.”
“Stay away from Sophie Reyes,” they warned. But Maverick had never been good at listening to rules—especially when they came with a challenge.
“He was the kind of danger that didn’t shout. He whispered.”
Sophie Reyes is a force of nature—fierce, determined, and haunted by the murder of her father. Her search for justice leads her straight into the path of Maverick Mercer, the king of the city’s criminal underworld—and the one man she should avoid at all costs.
But from the moment they meet, the pull between them is magnetic and dangerous. Sophie is sworn to uphold the law. Maverick thrives outside of it. Their chemistry is explosive, their morals conflicting, and their pasts more intertwined than either of them expected.
Caitlyn P. Tajon delivers a gritty slow-burn romance with sharp writing, emotional depth, and just the right amount of tension. If you love morally gray heroes, revenge plots, and heroines who don’t back down, this one’s for you.
Favorite Quotes:
“She was the storm no one saw coming—wild, untamed, and on a collision course with everything he thought he controlled.”
“Justice is clean. Revenge is personal.”
“Stay away from Sophie Reyes,” they warned. But Maverick had never been good at listening to rules—especially when they came with a challenge.
“He was the kind of danger that didn’t shout. He whispered.”
June 19, 2025
Yeahhhhh…. Umm, so that happened…
First and foremost, thank you to Caitlyn Tajon for giving me an ARC of this book. It’s the first one I ever received and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to read this book. I know how much work goes into writing a book, so congratulations!
That being said, I had to give this book two stars. The foundation of the plot had SUCH potential, but I feel like it was lacking the depth needed to make it as impactful as I would have liked. There were several cute moments in the book that I thought were very sweet (like Wednesday, Callie accepting Sophie for her darkness, and Maverick’s unending love for her). However, that wasn’t enough to make up for how many idiotic decisions the FMC and MMC made throughout the book! It seemed like both of them lacked common sense and chose the absolute HARDEST possible option to go with. So I felt like I couldn’t really enjoy it because every few pages I angry and what was happening!
HOWEVER, if you like a Mafia-esque romance with a morally grey FMC, then please give this book a try! It wasn’t for me, but it might be for you
First and foremost, thank you to Caitlyn Tajon for giving me an ARC of this book. It’s the first one I ever received and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to read this book. I know how much work goes into writing a book, so congratulations!
That being said, I had to give this book two stars. The foundation of the plot had SUCH potential, but I feel like it was lacking the depth needed to make it as impactful as I would have liked. There were several cute moments in the book that I thought were very sweet (like Wednesday, Callie accepting Sophie for her darkness, and Maverick’s unending love for her). However, that wasn’t enough to make up for how many idiotic decisions the FMC and MMC made throughout the book! It seemed like both of them lacked common sense and chose the absolute HARDEST possible option to go with. So I felt like I couldn’t really enjoy it because every few pages I angry and what was happening!
HOWEVER, if you like a Mafia-esque romance with a morally grey FMC, then please give this book a try! It wasn’t for me, but it might be for you
April 22, 2025
ARC review. Sophie is a detective walking a morally gray line. When she meets Maverick, a New York cartel leader, sparks ignite. As corrupt and violent as he is, he may be the only one to save her from her greatest enemy: herself.
I straight up savored this book. I love the self-awareness Sophie has. She’s not a good person, and she’s attracted to toxic behavior. She is also a wonderful brand of unhinged (stalking your stalker? Go off, girl). There are parts where she made me laugh out loud with her antics. But she’s also her own worst enemy and her heartbreaking moments are visceral. Her darkness in some ways exceeds Maverick’s. Meanwhile, Maverick is so patient and loving with her. He’s got his demons and he’s more than happy to dole out punishment but for Sophie, he’s a whole different man. She helps him overcome his shackles and watching who he becomes through this book is rewarding. Violence aside, this book is a rich and emotional journey I’ll be returning to.
🎲 Organized Crime
🖤 Dark Romance
🫶 Opposites Attract
💖 Insta-attraction
I straight up savored this book. I love the self-awareness Sophie has. She’s not a good person, and she’s attracted to toxic behavior. She is also a wonderful brand of unhinged (stalking your stalker? Go off, girl). There are parts where she made me laugh out loud with her antics. But she’s also her own worst enemy and her heartbreaking moments are visceral. Her darkness in some ways exceeds Maverick’s. Meanwhile, Maverick is so patient and loving with her. He’s got his demons and he’s more than happy to dole out punishment but for Sophie, he’s a whole different man. She helps him overcome his shackles and watching who he becomes through this book is rewarding. Violence aside, this book is a rich and emotional journey I’ll be returning to.
🎲 Organized Crime
🖤 Dark Romance
🫶 Opposites Attract
💖 Insta-attraction
April 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Wow, wow, wow. What a book! First and foremost, I’m obsessed with these two MCs. Infrequently do you read a book where both the MMC and the FMC are powerful, obsessed people. I loved being able to see it from the FMC point of view. It gave a whole new level of obsession to the mix.
I was absolutely absorbed by this book from early on. The character development, the mental health struggles, the unconditional love, the betrayal, the SPICE. Holy cow, the spice. I love when a strong, independent woman basically folds for her MMC in bed.
This book was just an amazing combination of push and pull. Which, I think, is telling of any good relationship (no matter how dark and twisted that relationship is). When one partner needs help, the other helps. If one partner needs someone to lean on, the other provides the shoulder. When one partner needs someone dead…the other one loads the g*n.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Wow, wow, wow. What a book! First and foremost, I’m obsessed with these two MCs. Infrequently do you read a book where both the MMC and the FMC are powerful, obsessed people. I loved being able to see it from the FMC point of view. It gave a whole new level of obsession to the mix.
I was absolutely absorbed by this book from early on. The character development, the mental health struggles, the unconditional love, the betrayal, the SPICE. Holy cow, the spice. I love when a strong, independent woman basically folds for her MMC in bed.
This book was just an amazing combination of push and pull. Which, I think, is telling of any good relationship (no matter how dark and twisted that relationship is). When one partner needs help, the other helps. If one partner needs someone to lean on, the other provides the shoulder. When one partner needs someone dead…the other one loads the g*n.
March 25, 2025
4.5⭐️, 4🌶
WOW! This is the first book I have read by Caitlyn P Tajon and I am blown away. This story is about Sophie, a detective hell-bent on avenging her father's murder, and Maverick, the youngest son of a cartel leader, trying to earn his place in the family. I was captured by the way Mav's character was written - a man with so much kindness, empathy, and love while also ruthless and obsessive. The way he helps Sophie thru her self-image and eating issues was so sweet - and well thought out to be realistic to the dangers of ED. Sophie is also a bad ass FMC, fighting her own demons and stepping up to protect the ones she loves from theirs. I really enjoyed reading this book and will definitely be diving in to Callie & Liams story!
WOW! This is the first book I have read by Caitlyn P Tajon and I am blown away. This story is about Sophie, a detective hell-bent on avenging her father's murder, and Maverick, the youngest son of a cartel leader, trying to earn his place in the family. I was captured by the way Mav's character was written - a man with so much kindness, empathy, and love while also ruthless and obsessive. The way he helps Sophie thru her self-image and eating issues was so sweet - and well thought out to be realistic to the dangers of ED. Sophie is also a bad ass FMC, fighting her own demons and stepping up to protect the ones she loves from theirs. I really enjoyed reading this book and will definitely be diving in to Callie & Liams story!
April 7, 2025
This is a dark romance, so check your warnings however, it also touches on some big subjects that could also be trigger warnings, so make sure to read ALL trigger warnings before reading. With that being said, this book was so good-cartel/mafia vibes all the way!
Maverick and Sophie’s story is hard, dark, raw, and true. The push and pull between these characters as well as them fighting their connection is just *chefs kiss*
I don’t want to give too much away so that’s all I will say, you definitely need to read this if you love dark romance with cartel/mafia vibes!
*I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book, this is my personal and truthful review.
Tropes:
•enemies to lovers
•criminal x detective
•touch her and die vibes
•forced proximity
Maverick and Sophie’s story is hard, dark, raw, and true. The push and pull between these characters as well as them fighting their connection is just *chefs kiss*
I don’t want to give too much away so that’s all I will say, you definitely need to read this if you love dark romance with cartel/mafia vibes!
*I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book, this is my personal and truthful review.
Tropes:
•enemies to lovers
•criminal x detective
•touch her and die vibes
•forced proximity
April 8, 2025
4.25⭐️ . This book has all the elements of a fast paced, spicy, dark romance and I loved it! Sophie finds herself seeking revenge on the man who murdered her father, but what she didn't expect was to be caught by anyone, much less an attractive, morally grey man who seems have found a new obsession in her. The tension and spice between these two is insane and delicious. They both embrace their darkness and I am here for it!
What to expect:
🖤 enemies to lovers
🖤 criminal x detective
🖤 touch her and die
🖤 morally grey MMC
🖤 obsessive and possessive MMC
🖤 mutual pining & stalking
🖤 forced proximity
Thank you to Caitlyn Tajon for letting me read/review an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
What to expect:
🖤 enemies to lovers
🖤 criminal x detective
🖤 touch her and die
🖤 morally grey MMC
🖤 obsessive and possessive MMC
🖤 mutual pining & stalking
🖤 forced proximity
Thank you to Caitlyn Tajon for letting me read/review an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
April 17, 2025
I loved it! Totally different from anything I’ve read before! I love the struggle both main characters experience and it’s amazing to see them work through things together and learn how to trust one another. Maverick and Sophie are a great duo and they truly are dark relatable characters. Bringing in the aspects of grief, black sheep, eating disorders, etc. makes you feel totally different about who they are inside vs who they portray. They have great banter and their sexual discovery journey is great. Watching Sophie let herself go for Maverick is what every woman wants to feel from a man. This is a gang leader law enforcement romance that does not allow you to put the book down! I highly recommend!
April 3, 2025
O.M.G. This book was just an amazing journey and experience to read. Maverick, like wow he had such a poise about himself, even though he went through so much as a character in this book. And Sophie, she is a badass, like such a strong and independent FMC. I love their love story. From the first moment that they meet, to them ending up together. The spice, the banter, Maverick in definitely painted in morally grey colors.
Being from New Jersey myself, It felt very familiar reading some of the descriptions of the towns. But most of all I enjoyed being swept in the Maverick's & Sophie's love story. He would literally move heaven and earth for her.
Being from New Jersey myself, It felt very familiar reading some of the descriptions of the towns. But most of all I enjoyed being swept in the Maverick's & Sophie's love story. He would literally move heaven and earth for her.
April 3, 2025
Three words… STALKING, OBSESSION, POSSESSION!! And in that order!!! This book was EVERYTHING I NEEDED!!!!! Quite literally, Couldn’t put it down!! Had me on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happened next. Caitlyn delivered with Built For Mercy, the backstory (not over done or drawn out), the desire and longing between Sophie and Maverick was sexy, exhilarating, dark and dangerous but done in such a good way!!!!! Definitely add to your TBR!!! A must read for any Dark Romance girlie! If you like stalking, forced proximity, obsession, morally grey mmc, then this is for you!!!!
*I received an advance review copy of this book in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.
*I received an advance review copy of this book in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.
April 3, 2025
I loved it. The double yearning without the other knowing was so good. I was hooked from the first chapter, and despite my schoolwork, I finished this book in two weeks.
Maverick was so hot, and I loved that Sophie let him have control without fully backing down from him. Her spunk throughout the book was so good. Their love for each other at the end was so amazing and I really enjoyed it.
There were some parts where I was close to crying and others that made me so giggly that people started asking me if I was okay. So...I would say it was such a good book. I have almost 100 annotations in the book and I normally don't feels that much in books, but I couldn't help it.
Maverick was so hot, and I loved that Sophie let him have control without fully backing down from him. Her spunk throughout the book was so good. Their love for each other at the end was so amazing and I really enjoyed it.
There were some parts where I was close to crying and others that made me so giggly that people started asking me if I was okay. So...I would say it was such a good book. I have almost 100 annotations in the book and I normally don't feels that much in books, but I couldn't help it.
April 20, 2025
I LOVED this book and I could not stop reading it. Caitlyn did an amazing job with everything and right off the bat I was hooked. Sophie and Maverick were never supposed to work, but they do and their love story is absolute perfection in my eyes. He is morally grey and she is doing whatever she can to solve her father's murder. The banter, the chemistry, the spice, wow.
I usually don't read mafia romance books, but this hooked me in and I knew right-a-way that it was a must.
This is not your average love story, but that is fine with me. Thank you Caitlyn P. Tajon for this amazing book. I cannot wait to see what else you have up your sleeve.
I usually don't read mafia romance books, but this hooked me in and I knew right-a-way that it was a must.
This is not your average love story, but that is fine with me. Thank you Caitlyn P. Tajon for this amazing book. I cannot wait to see what else you have up your sleeve.
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