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Sweet Sinners
He Took Everything from Her. Now He’s the Only Thing She Craves.
Cali thought stepping into her family’s empire would be her hardest challenge until Connor walked back into her life. Once her stepbrother, now the man accused of murdering their parents, he’s out of prison but far from free. Bound by house arrest but still haunted by scandal, Connor is the last person Cali wants under her roof.
With his cocky smirk and infuriating charm, Connor is everything Cali hates… and everything she can’t resist. She tells herself it’s the reckless attitude, the lies, and the years he spent away that fuel her anger, but the truth is far worse, it’s the raw, possessive way he looks at her that makes her pulse race and threatens to unravel her carefully controlled world.
When new evidence about their parents’ deaths surfaces, Cali and Connor are forced into an uneasy alliance. Working together to uncover the truth means confronting buried secrets, dangerous enemies, and the spark between them that refuses to die.
As the mystery unravels, so do the walls they’ve built between hate and desire. The closer they get to the killer, the closer they get to each other and the closer they come to crossing the one line they swore they never would.
Enemies. Off-Limits. Lovers.
How far would you go for the one person you were never meant to have?
Sweet Sinners is a dark, forbidden romance about survival, redemption, and a love that refuses to stay hidden.
Cali thought stepping into her family’s empire would be her hardest challenge until Connor walked back into her life. Once her stepbrother, now the man accused of murdering their parents, he’s out of prison but far from free. Bound by house arrest but still haunted by scandal, Connor is the last person Cali wants under her roof.
With his cocky smirk and infuriating charm, Connor is everything Cali hates… and everything she can’t resist. She tells herself it’s the reckless attitude, the lies, and the years he spent away that fuel her anger, but the truth is far worse, it’s the raw, possessive way he looks at her that makes her pulse race and threatens to unravel her carefully controlled world.
When new evidence about their parents’ deaths surfaces, Cali and Connor are forced into an uneasy alliance. Working together to uncover the truth means confronting buried secrets, dangerous enemies, and the spark between them that refuses to die.
As the mystery unravels, so do the walls they’ve built between hate and desire. The closer they get to the killer, the closer they get to each other and the closer they come to crossing the one line they swore they never would.
Enemies. Off-Limits. Lovers.
How far would you go for the one person you were never meant to have?
Sweet Sinners is a dark, forbidden romance about survival, redemption, and a love that refuses to stay hidden.
369 pages, Paperback
First published March 26, 2025
264 people are currently reading
3251 people want to read
About the author
N.D. Roldan
4 books41 followersN.D. Roldan writes the kind of romance your Kindle warns you about: dark, forbidden, and spicy enough to make your grandma blush. Fueled by caffeine, chaos, and questionable life choices, she believes happily-ever-afters taste better after a little angst (okay, a lot).
A proud Latina, when she’s not typing furiously at odd hours, you'll find her chasing tiny humans, reorganizing her bookshelf for the hundredth time, or explaining to strangers that fictional bad boys do count as friends. She firmly believes in binge-reading till 2 am, unapologetic book hangovers, and stories that linger long after you’ve flipped the final page.
Follow along to join her endless TBR list, heartfelt chaos, and characters who never behave themselves.
Come for the romance, stay for the chaos.
A proud Latina, when she’s not typing furiously at odd hours, you'll find her chasing tiny humans, reorganizing her bookshelf for the hundredth time, or explaining to strangers that fictional bad boys do count as friends. She firmly believes in binge-reading till 2 am, unapologetic book hangovers, and stories that linger long after you’ve flipped the final page.
Follow along to join her endless TBR list, heartfelt chaos, and characters who never behave themselves.
Come for the romance, stay for the chaos.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
June 12, 2025
Loved this book. The dynamic between Cali and Connor develops over time and is fascinating. The murder mystery/crime aspect keeps you on your toes wondering how they will solve it. The spice hits just right. This book was fabulous! 4.5/5 stars!
October 22, 2025
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I went into Sweet Sinners expecting a dark, forbidden romance—and in some ways, I got exactly that. N.D. Roldan brings the heat (eventually) and explores themes of grief, redemption, and stepping into power. There’s a story here, and moments that grabbed me—but there were also a lot of places where I found myself bored, confused, or just… cringing.
Let’s start with the good: The spicy scenes delivered. The chemistry was on once Cali and Connor finally got together (page 259!). There were three standout scenes where I felt the tension, the passion, the yearning—all of it. I also appreciated the honest look at what it means for Cali to take over her family’s company. Being the boss isn’t always glamorous, and her vulnerability was refreshing. I also loved Connor’s passion for food—one of the few parts of his character that felt fully formed. Honestly, I wish the author had leaned into that more—he would have been so much more believable as a sexy chef than as a stepbrother/fighter/secretly innocent ex-con.
But here’s where it lost me:
- The pacing dragged in the first half, especially with Cali’s repetitive internal monologues and Connor’s evasiveness.
- The murder mystery twist? Not so twisty. I had Anna pegged as the killer way too early.
- I had whiplash from how fast Cali went from thinking he was her father’s killer to trusting him again. That forgiveness arc deserved more page time.
- Dean felt like a placeholder character thrown in to stir up unnecessary workplace drama.
And Calliope? I love a unique name, but I would’ve loved to know why she had it. Give me a little Greek mythology callback or family history!
The epilogue tried to wrap things up sweetly, but I had mixed feelings about Cali taking Connor’s last name. The reasoning behind it felt off, especially considering her family legacy. It just didn’t land.
Still, there was heart here. I liked that the trauma they endured wasn’t brushed aside. And the writing had a flow that kept me turning pages, even if I rolled my eyes now and then. This could have been an emotional knockout with some tighter editing, more character development (especially for Connor), and less filler around Cali’s corporate struggles.
Would I read another book by N.D. Roldan? Honestly, yes—because the author knows how to write tension, and I think there’s a lot of potential there. But I’ll hope for more depth and less “wait, what?” in the next one.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph ✏ TikTok
I went into Sweet Sinners expecting a dark, forbidden romance—and in some ways, I got exactly that. N.D. Roldan brings the heat (eventually) and explores themes of grief, redemption, and stepping into power. There’s a story here, and moments that grabbed me—but there were also a lot of places where I found myself bored, confused, or just… cringing.
Let’s start with the good: The spicy scenes delivered. The chemistry was on once Cali and Connor finally got together (page 259!). There were three standout scenes where I felt the tension, the passion, the yearning—all of it. I also appreciated the honest look at what it means for Cali to take over her family’s company. Being the boss isn’t always glamorous, and her vulnerability was refreshing. I also loved Connor’s passion for food—one of the few parts of his character that felt fully formed. Honestly, I wish the author had leaned into that more—he would have been so much more believable as a sexy chef than as a stepbrother/fighter/secretly innocent ex-con.
But here’s where it lost me:
- The pacing dragged in the first half, especially with Cali’s repetitive internal monologues and Connor’s evasiveness.
- The murder mystery twist? Not so twisty. I had Anna pegged as the killer way too early.
- I had whiplash from how fast Cali went from thinking he was her father’s killer to trusting him again. That forgiveness arc deserved more page time.
- Dean felt like a placeholder character thrown in to stir up unnecessary workplace drama.
And Calliope? I love a unique name, but I would’ve loved to know why she had it. Give me a little Greek mythology callback or family history!
The epilogue tried to wrap things up sweetly, but I had mixed feelings about Cali taking Connor’s last name. The reasoning behind it felt off, especially considering her family legacy. It just didn’t land.
Still, there was heart here. I liked that the trauma they endured wasn’t brushed aside. And the writing had a flow that kept me turning pages, even if I rolled my eyes now and then. This could have been an emotional knockout with some tighter editing, more character development (especially for Connor), and less filler around Cali’s corporate struggles.
Would I read another book by N.D. Roldan? Honestly, yes—because the author knows how to write tension, and I think there’s a lot of potential there. But I’ll hope for more depth and less “wait, what?” in the next one.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2025
This was a good read . Did start out very slow but as I kept reading things began to get interesting. The more I read the more I wanted to solve the mystery. I literally could not put this book down until i found out who was the real murderer.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 11, 2025
This book is amazing. Slow burn.
December 11, 2025
Oh i loved this book! devoured it! I loved Connor and Cali so much! Cali is such a strong fl, takes no bullshit, gets shit done. Connor the morally grey ml also doesn’t take no shit, yet he has a such golden retriever personality for Cali. After years apart due to a tragedy that left them both orphaned and Conner behind bars, finally meeting again after three years. Cali blaming Connor for what happened, hating him, hating having to live in this house together due to his ankle monitor not allowing him outside the house. She is a mess of feelings! While they live together they do end up growing closer, Cali realizing maybe Connor is innocent, well they navigate not just their feelings, but so much. Cali trying to be the CEO her late fathers company needs and Conner navigating his way back into regular life outside of prison, but on top of their personal struggles, they also have a murder mystery to solve and to clear up Connery name. This book has it all! Romance, Spice, a bit of thriller in it! A bit of a who done it mystery, and the plot twist on who it was *chefs kiss*. The writing was great! i was hooked!
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and N.D Roldan for an arc copy of this book! <3
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and N.D Roldan for an arc copy of this book! <3
April 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Sweet Sinners by N.D Roldan
“He Took Everything from Her. Now He's the Only Thing She Craves.”
OMG N.D. Knocked this one out of the park!!! I’ve never craved a murder mystery, forbidden romance more than I do now!!! Usually, I am not a big fan of forbidden romance, but I’m hooked on this!! I absolutely loved Cali and Connor! They are well rounded, relatable, and absolutely perfect for each other!! Cali is a freaking badass, and Connor, he’s definitely morally grey, but definitely a sweetheart!! He gives off touch her and 💀 vibes in the best way!!
This is one of the slowest slow burns I’ve read in a while!! The entire time I was BEGGING for them to kiss, and when they finally did 🤌🤌🤌 This book has spice, intrigue, mystery, drama, all the things you want in a book!!
Thank you ND for trusting me to read an early draft of your book! And thank you Sunnybabe PR for an advanced reader copy!
“He Took Everything from Her. Now He's the Only Thing She Craves.”
OMG N.D. Knocked this one out of the park!!! I’ve never craved a murder mystery, forbidden romance more than I do now!!! Usually, I am not a big fan of forbidden romance, but I’m hooked on this!! I absolutely loved Cali and Connor! They are well rounded, relatable, and absolutely perfect for each other!! Cali is a freaking badass, and Connor, he’s definitely morally grey, but definitely a sweetheart!! He gives off touch her and 💀 vibes in the best way!!
This is one of the slowest slow burns I’ve read in a while!! The entire time I was BEGGING for them to kiss, and when they finally did 🤌🤌🤌 This book has spice, intrigue, mystery, drama, all the things you want in a book!!
Thank you ND for trusting me to read an early draft of your book! And thank you Sunnybabe PR for an advanced reader copy!
April 4, 2025
oh my god, i loved this book!
forbidden romance, close proximity, slow burn tragic pasts, morally-grey mmc, strong and boss-woman fmc... it's an all in one dark romance 😍 also all of this intertwined with the murder mystery. I was very surprised at how all of it came to light by the end of the book! Roland's writing was amazing, kept me hooked and pining for more.
Connor and Cali are so amazing. I adored them both. They were both emotionally scarred and their relationship felt so real! The tension between them was intense.
Uhm, let's talk about the spice that was SPICING btw!!🌶️🌶️🌶️ like, where do I get myself a Connor?😂
Absolutely loved the ending, THANK YOU SO MUCH N.D ROLAND FOR THAT AMAZING EPILOGUE. Aah, cannot tell you how happy it made me :))
You'd love this book if you're into dark romance with a great mystery behind it!
Thank you so much to SunnyBabe PR and the author for an ARC of Sweet Sinners, I've been honoured to read and review it <3
forbidden romance, close proximity, slow burn tragic pasts, morally-grey mmc, strong and boss-woman fmc... it's an all in one dark romance 😍 also all of this intertwined with the murder mystery. I was very surprised at how all of it came to light by the end of the book! Roland's writing was amazing, kept me hooked and pining for more.
Connor and Cali are so amazing. I adored them both. They were both emotionally scarred and their relationship felt so real! The tension between them was intense.
Uhm, let's talk about the spice that was SPICING btw!!🌶️🌶️🌶️ like, where do I get myself a Connor?😂
Absolutely loved the ending, THANK YOU SO MUCH N.D ROLAND FOR THAT AMAZING EPILOGUE. Aah, cannot tell you how happy it made me :))
You'd love this book if you're into dark romance with a great mystery behind it!
Thank you so much to SunnyBabe PR and the author for an ARC of Sweet Sinners, I've been honoured to read and review it <3
April 11, 2025
Sweet Sinners by N.D. Roldan is a slow burn dark romance novel. This book contains tropes such as forbidden romance, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, Reluctant Allies, Powerhouse heroine and mortally gray hero.
The story follows Cali and Conner as they try to navigate their lives 3 years after the brutal murder of their parents. Cali returns home and now she need to fill the shoes of her father as new CEO of the largest shipping company. Conner is released from prison and is under house arrest . He is forced to live with Cali, his step sister, as she is all that he was left. Cali and Conner are forced to work together as new evidence surfaces on the death of their parents.
I love this book. It was a quick read and I was hooked from the beginning. Connor and Cali was such amazing characters. They were so vulnerable and real and I just loved them. Cali is this badass powerful CEO but behind close doors she is vulnerable women trying to make it in a men's world. She is still trying to recover being back and Conner is not helping the situation. Conner, the morally grey character and step brother. He trying to live through this nightmare while on house arrest. I love the slow burn romance. How it goes from enemies to lovers. The way the help each other through everything. Just this normal routine that turns into something more. The mystery of whom is behind everything was also good. A dark romance will not be the same without the smut!!
I am looking forward to reading more of the author's books.
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and N.D. Roldan for sending me this book in exchange for my honest review .
The story follows Cali and Conner as they try to navigate their lives 3 years after the brutal murder of their parents. Cali returns home and now she need to fill the shoes of her father as new CEO of the largest shipping company. Conner is released from prison and is under house arrest . He is forced to live with Cali, his step sister, as she is all that he was left. Cali and Conner are forced to work together as new evidence surfaces on the death of their parents.
I love this book. It was a quick read and I was hooked from the beginning. Connor and Cali was such amazing characters. They were so vulnerable and real and I just loved them. Cali is this badass powerful CEO but behind close doors she is vulnerable women trying to make it in a men's world. She is still trying to recover being back and Conner is not helping the situation. Conner, the morally grey character and step brother. He trying to live through this nightmare while on house arrest. I love the slow burn romance. How it goes from enemies to lovers. The way the help each other through everything. Just this normal routine that turns into something more. The mystery of whom is behind everything was also good. A dark romance will not be the same without the smut!!
I am looking forward to reading more of the author's books.
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and N.D. Roldan for sending me this book in exchange for my honest review .
April 29, 2025
What to expect:
🔪 Enemies to lovers
❤️ Forbidden romance
🔪 Forced proximity
❤️ Slow burn
Three years ago, Cali and Conners' lives had changed. Their father and mother were murdered and since Conner discovered the bodies with blood on his hands, he was sent to prison for three years. Blamed for the murders but eventually released from prison due to the lawyer depicting it was self-defense. He is stuck on house arrest in the same home the murders took place, where his step-sister Calliope will live and take over her father's company as CEO.
Cali is a strong and confident CEO when the situation arises within the company. She knows how to stay cool and collected when trying to win over the board members with her fresh ideas on how to save the company's money troubles, but behind closed doors. She is overwhelmed and stressed out.
"No, I'm not pathetic—I'm Calliope Stavros, CEO of one of the world's largest shipping companies. I'm confident, capable, and attractive. Desired. And I'm…completely losing it over a man I shouldn't want in the first place."
When she gets home, her step-brother seems to be the one to feed her, console her, and support her in her struggles. Conner is attracted to Cali from the beginning, but over time, he starts to develop feelings. He worries that if he gives in to those temptations, it could potentially ruin what they have. Cali is starting to trust him and believe in his innocence.
Is it worth diving in? Does she feel the same? Who committed the murders and framed Conner? Will the world accept them since they are step-siblings? This quick-paced read will have you on the edge of your seat!
🔪 Enemies to lovers
❤️ Forbidden romance
🔪 Forced proximity
❤️ Slow burn
Three years ago, Cali and Conners' lives had changed. Their father and mother were murdered and since Conner discovered the bodies with blood on his hands, he was sent to prison for three years. Blamed for the murders but eventually released from prison due to the lawyer depicting it was self-defense. He is stuck on house arrest in the same home the murders took place, where his step-sister Calliope will live and take over her father's company as CEO.
Cali is a strong and confident CEO when the situation arises within the company. She knows how to stay cool and collected when trying to win over the board members with her fresh ideas on how to save the company's money troubles, but behind closed doors. She is overwhelmed and stressed out.
"No, I'm not pathetic—I'm Calliope Stavros, CEO of one of the world's largest shipping companies. I'm confident, capable, and attractive. Desired. And I'm…completely losing it over a man I shouldn't want in the first place."
When she gets home, her step-brother seems to be the one to feed her, console her, and support her in her struggles. Conner is attracted to Cali from the beginning, but over time, he starts to develop feelings. He worries that if he gives in to those temptations, it could potentially ruin what they have. Cali is starting to trust him and believe in his innocence.
Is it worth diving in? Does she feel the same? Who committed the murders and framed Conner? Will the world accept them since they are step-siblings? This quick-paced read will have you on the edge of your seat!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2025
✨A special thank you to Sunnybabepr and N.D. Roldan for this arc ✨
I want to start by saying I don’t read too many dark romance books. I enjoy them, but they aren’t what I automatically pick up. However, after reading the blurb for this one, I immediately signed up and I am SO glad I did!
While this is what I would consider a slow burn, the tension leading up and the relationship built in the meantime was chefs kiss. It felt real. It was believable! That’s what I look for in a forbidden romance trope.
I love that Connor was the morally gray character, but it was in a way that totally shocked me. He was so caring and attentive to Callie, and I truly adored their interactions. Callie was a boss-babe and kept her strong-willed personality through the whole plot.
I’m beyond happy that we got that epilogue 👏🏼
I will definitely be picking this authors work up in the future.
This book is now available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited ✨
I want to start by saying I don’t read too many dark romance books. I enjoy them, but they aren’t what I automatically pick up. However, after reading the blurb for this one, I immediately signed up and I am SO glad I did!
While this is what I would consider a slow burn, the tension leading up and the relationship built in the meantime was chefs kiss. It felt real. It was believable! That’s what I look for in a forbidden romance trope.
I love that Connor was the morally gray character, but it was in a way that totally shocked me. He was so caring and attentive to Callie, and I truly adored their interactions. Callie was a boss-babe and kept her strong-willed personality through the whole plot.
I’m beyond happy that we got that epilogue 👏🏼
I will definitely be picking this authors work up in the future.
This book is now available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited ✨
May 16, 2025
I participated in an ARC read for this book and was really excited for it. It's not a bad book, but some things just put me off. First of all, I didn't like the fact that honest reviews seemed to be discouraged by giving clear instructions as to how you're supposed to review if you don't give 4 stars or more. That just rubbed me the wrong way.
But when it came to the story, I had some issues as well. I felt like the first 70 percent of the book were mostly fillers to drag out the slow burn. I was dreading each new work day of our FMC, because they were just so bland.
The last 30 percent picked up the pace, but I had procrastinated the continuation of my reading for so long that I just wasn't getting into it. I thought about DNFing quite a lot but ultimately decided to skim the rest of the book.
The murder mystery reveal was no surprise, but I liked the dynamic between Connor and Cali.
It's not a bad book, it's not badly written, but I just wasn't feeling it as a whole.
3-3.5 ⭐
But when it came to the story, I had some issues as well. I felt like the first 70 percent of the book were mostly fillers to drag out the slow burn. I was dreading each new work day of our FMC, because they were just so bland.
The last 30 percent picked up the pace, but I had procrastinated the continuation of my reading for so long that I just wasn't getting into it. I thought about DNFing quite a lot but ultimately decided to skim the rest of the book.
The murder mystery reveal was no surprise, but I liked the dynamic between Connor and Cali.
It's not a bad book, it's not badly written, but I just wasn't feeling it as a whole.
3-3.5 ⭐
March 26, 2025
Sweet Sinners follows Connor and Cali—estranged step siblings who are forced back under the same roof after a shocking event. Tension? Through the roof. Forced proximity? Oh yeah. Add in some unresolved trauma and a mystery surrounding their parents' deaths, and you’ve got a recipe for blurred lines, angst, and a whole lot of complicated feelings.
Connor is the definition of morally gray, but with just enough green flags to keep me rooting for him. And Cali? She’s strong, independent, and not about to let anyone walk all over her. The slow burn romance had solid moments, especially with the emotional weight of their shared past. Roldan’s writing was engaging, I appreciated the depth of the character’s struggles and the way their chemistry blossomed into an off limits connection. I enjoyed the mystery woven in, but would have loved a few more unexpected twists to keep me on my toes. Overall, Sweet Sinners is a compelling read packed with spice, tension, and the thrill of forbidden romance.
Thank you to Sunnybabe PR & N.D. Roldan for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Connor is the definition of morally gray, but with just enough green flags to keep me rooting for him. And Cali? She’s strong, independent, and not about to let anyone walk all over her. The slow burn romance had solid moments, especially with the emotional weight of their shared past. Roldan’s writing was engaging, I appreciated the depth of the character’s struggles and the way their chemistry blossomed into an off limits connection. I enjoyed the mystery woven in, but would have loved a few more unexpected twists to keep me on my toes. Overall, Sweet Sinners is a compelling read packed with spice, tension, and the thrill of forbidden romance.
Thank you to Sunnybabe PR & N.D. Roldan for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 14, 2025
Love me a Step sibling Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 Stars
Step-sibling romance. Slow burn. Forced proximity. Angry tension. And zero sibling bond—just forbidden, magnetic chemistry.
This book is a spicy, suspenseful ride that I devoured in under 24 hours. The tension? Off the charts. It's a slow build, fueled by anger, resentment, and undeniable attraction—and when it finally ignites… it’s explosive. 🔥
The FMC is a total badass, and Connor? He’s the kind of stepbrother that will ruin you in the best way. He cooks for her every night, keeps the house in order, and even strings up fairy lights in the greenhouse—her peaceful escape. That touch? Chef’s kiss.
If you love your taboo romance hot, slow-burning, and laced with tension, Sweet Sinners is your next obsession.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 Stars
Step-sibling romance. Slow burn. Forced proximity. Angry tension. And zero sibling bond—just forbidden, magnetic chemistry.
This book is a spicy, suspenseful ride that I devoured in under 24 hours. The tension? Off the charts. It's a slow build, fueled by anger, resentment, and undeniable attraction—and when it finally ignites… it’s explosive. 🔥
The FMC is a total badass, and Connor? He’s the kind of stepbrother that will ruin you in the best way. He cooks for her every night, keeps the house in order, and even strings up fairy lights in the greenhouse—her peaceful escape. That touch? Chef’s kiss.
If you love your taboo romance hot, slow-burning, and laced with tension, Sweet Sinners is your next obsession.
April 22, 2025
Accused of murder and having served time. Connor is the last person Cali expects to see on her return to the family home after 3 years. Cali is back to take over the family business that she does not want. With Connor being released into the family care how will she cope? Dis Connor commit the crimes he was accused of or is there still a killer out there waiting for their return? A good story and good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2025
Connor and Cali each have their conflicts, both personally and with the world. One night changes both of their lives drastically, and years later, they are forced to confront their pasts and navigate uncertain futures. Trust is a constant theme in this story. Connor badly wants Cali’s trust, but her life is surrounded by secrets and lies, so she isn’t sure who she can trust, if anyone. The build is very slow between these two, and things don’t get heavy until the last 25%. There is suspense, revelations, healing, and romance. It all ends so beautifully, too!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2025
Sweet Sinners is an intense, forbidden romance.
Both main characters are flawed, dealing with pain, trauma, and buried secrets. With messy, raw emotions and the determination to uncover the truth leaves them both vulnerable, Conner and Cali must also make a decision whether to cross that line they have been teetering on.
When slow burn and forced proximity is one of the tropes in this book best believe N.D. Roland will have you hanging by a thread, yearning for the suspense between Conner and Cali to unfold. Throughout the book I kept thinking this is it, they’re going to give in, and then BOOM.. they don’t. The tension just keeps on building.
The story itself is tragic, suspenseful but captivating! Definitely an enjoyable read if you’re into dark romance!
✨ This ARC was provided by Sunny Babe PR. Thank you for the book!
Both main characters are flawed, dealing with pain, trauma, and buried secrets. With messy, raw emotions and the determination to uncover the truth leaves them both vulnerable, Conner and Cali must also make a decision whether to cross that line they have been teetering on.
When slow burn and forced proximity is one of the tropes in this book best believe N.D. Roland will have you hanging by a thread, yearning for the suspense between Conner and Cali to unfold. Throughout the book I kept thinking this is it, they’re going to give in, and then BOOM.. they don’t. The tension just keeps on building.
The story itself is tragic, suspenseful but captivating! Definitely an enjoyable read if you’re into dark romance!
✨ This ARC was provided by Sunny Babe PR. Thank you for the book!
April 25, 2025
KEEPS YOU IN YOUR SEAT AND PARTS THAT HAS YOU JUMPING. SO VERY GOOD. WELL WRITTEN.
July 24, 2025
can’t put it down
This book catches your attention come start to finish. I’d love the plot how it builds so good 10/10,not too spicy but just enough.
This book catches your attention come start to finish. I’d love the plot how it builds so good 10/10,not too spicy but just enough.
September 22, 2025
4.75/5⭐️
November 15, 2025
I was expecting this to be dark, but it wasn't, it had dark elements but not related to the romance. I thought it was written quite well and had a unique storyline.
Time was taken to develop the relationship from haters to lovers and did not miss the awkward moments in between when they were both starting to realise they had feelings for each other in a forbidden situation.
Forced proximity is the main trope.
This book only lost a star for being predictable, not once throughout the mystery of solving the big issue did I doubt my prediction. It is titled perfectly- it was sweet and to society they are Sinners.
Time was taken to develop the relationship from haters to lovers and did not miss the awkward moments in between when they were both starting to realise they had feelings for each other in a forbidden situation.
Forced proximity is the main trope.
This book only lost a star for being predictable, not once throughout the mystery of solving the big issue did I doubt my prediction. It is titled perfectly- it was sweet and to society they are Sinners.
October 16, 2025
This was a great, easy read. Step-siblings that have lived through the worse thing that could happen to them, the lost of their respective parents. Never grew up with one another and one is blamed for both deaths. At first there was tension between the two thinking that he was guilty during the entire time he was in prison. There does come an understanding as he helps her navigate her new role as CEO of her father's company.
There is a secondary plot in the story about who really killed their parents. This leads to multiple suspects and the evidence was in the house with them the entire time. A great setup and one that leads to an interesting showdown in the ending.
There could have been some parts that were taken out or made shorter as they were just not necessary. Overall it was a good book and one that I do recommend for others to read if they like a nice easy romance read.
There is a secondary plot in the story about who really killed their parents. This leads to multiple suspects and the evidence was in the house with them the entire time. A great setup and one that leads to an interesting showdown in the ending.
There could have been some parts that were taken out or made shorter as they were just not necessary. Overall it was a good book and one that I do recommend for others to read if they like a nice easy romance read.
March 25, 2025
I read this book in one breath, it's a slow burn which I not really prefer but the story kept me reading. A FMM who is tough and vulnerable and looking for answers about the murder of her parents. A MMC who is the step-sibling and accused of the murders.
A Taboo Dark romance which I enjoyed very much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A Taboo Dark romance which I enjoyed very much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2025
I love a good dark romance with some mystery vibes woven in. The complexity of the characters was amazing and seeing them blossom was great.
I love how Connor always cooks for Cali and became a source of comfort for her. Cali really came into her own along side him.
Def a slow burn but well worth it. The angst and tension 🔥
All in all def worth the read! A lot of twists and turns you won’t see coming.
Thank you so much to Sunnybabe PR and N.D Roldan for the ARC 🫶
I love how Connor always cooks for Cali and became a source of comfort for her. Cali really came into her own along side him.
Def a slow burn but well worth it. The angst and tension 🔥
All in all def worth the read! A lot of twists and turns you won’t see coming.
Thank you so much to Sunnybabe PR and N.D Roldan for the ARC 🫶
April 4, 2025
First of all thank you SO much Sunny Babe PR for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for an *honest* review!
Oh how I missed slurping a book in less than 24h (yesterday night and this morning actually). Ugh, now I’m left craving more.
Morally grey meets Golden Retriever - my new favourite MMC recipe! An ex-con who also makes you dinner every night after you’ve spent your day being a boss b*tch CEO? Sign. Me. Up. And the slow burn? This, ladies and gents, is how you do it. Making me suffer through 70% of delicious tension until we finally got what we were waiting for! YES. YES. YES. Romance aside, the crumbs of true crime made the plot incredibly engaging as well.
The book is slow paced yet well organised, easy to read and straightforward. The writing style is very realistic - I just loved how every conversation felt natural and effortless.
The ‘taboo’ aspect of it isn’t that dark, nor did it come across as ‘forbidden’ as I initially expected. Perhaps I’ve been reading unhinged Dark Romance a bit too much because Sweet Sinners actually felt pretty tame. If you’re worried about the step-sibling situation, don’t be - it’s really not that deep. You’ll understand why once you read their backstory.
Oh how I missed slurping a book in less than 24h (yesterday night and this morning actually). Ugh, now I’m left craving more.
Morally grey meets Golden Retriever - my new favourite MMC recipe! An ex-con who also makes you dinner every night after you’ve spent your day being a boss b*tch CEO? Sign. Me. Up. And the slow burn? This, ladies and gents, is how you do it. Making me suffer through 70% of delicious tension until we finally got what we were waiting for! YES. YES. YES. Romance aside, the crumbs of true crime made the plot incredibly engaging as well.
The book is slow paced yet well organised, easy to read and straightforward. The writing style is very realistic - I just loved how every conversation felt natural and effortless.
The ‘taboo’ aspect of it isn’t that dark, nor did it come across as ‘forbidden’ as I initially expected. Perhaps I’ve been reading unhinged Dark Romance a bit too much because Sweet Sinners actually felt pretty tame. If you’re worried about the step-sibling situation, don’t be - it’s really not that deep. You’ll understand why once you read their backstory.
September 4, 2025
The way the MMC was so misunderstood. The way the MFC was choosing to stand somewhere in the middle till she had all the facts. WTF do you mean the MFC was stabbed in the back the way that she was. Excuse me the forbidden love was a nice touch to the story.
May 7, 2025
I read this book so slowwwww because I did NOT want it to end. I wanted to live in there isolated world forever with them. The chemistry between Cali and Connor was to die for. The slow burn was FanFingTastic and I ate this ish up like candy !!! totally addictive and enraveled from the beginning. 👌🏻
Cali is such an empowering woman, I love how beautifully she is written, her struggle with believing and accepting everything that happens with Connor was so fascinating to read. 🩷 She is such a good hearted woman and I love that she maintained strong in her believe the whole way through once she realized the truth.
Mannn, Connor is to die for, sexy bad boy criminal. I mean (drool) 🤤 lol I love how vulnerable he was with letting Cali in, which made there connection more powerful. I found myself struggling with him to overcome his demons so him and Cali could be already but I enjoyed the journey with them soooo much. ❤️🩹 💪🏻
Ohhh umm the spice here is definitely spicy so please beware when you jump into this because when it gets good omg it gets SOOOO DAMN GOOD I loved it alllll 1000% recommend!! 💘
The suspense had me on my toes, I caucho the honra from the beginning so I knew what was to come but I still was surprised when it came. IYKYK ! 😤🤬 (Can’t stand her) 😠
FAVORITE QUOTE: “With Cali, surviving anything feels possible.” - Connor
Cali is such an empowering woman, I love how beautifully she is written, her struggle with believing and accepting everything that happens with Connor was so fascinating to read. 🩷 She is such a good hearted woman and I love that she maintained strong in her believe the whole way through once she realized the truth.
Mannn, Connor is to die for, sexy bad boy criminal. I mean (drool) 🤤 lol I love how vulnerable he was with letting Cali in, which made there connection more powerful. I found myself struggling with him to overcome his demons so him and Cali could be already but I enjoyed the journey with them soooo much. ❤️🩹 💪🏻
Ohhh umm the spice here is definitely spicy so please beware when you jump into this because when it gets good omg it gets SOOOO DAMN GOOD I loved it alllll 1000% recommend!! 💘
The suspense had me on my toes, I caucho the honra from the beginning so I knew what was to come but I still was surprised when it came. IYKYK ! 😤🤬 (Can’t stand her) 😠
FAVORITE QUOTE: “With Cali, surviving anything feels possible.” - Connor
May 4, 2025
ARC Review ✨️
♡Connor & Cali♡
This author absolutely nailed the slowburn/dark romance aspects of this story! Omg how obsessed I am with Connor😍🥵 He's the ultimate MMC, and the touch her and 💀 vibes were the best🙌🙌 Cali is a feisty FMC, and I loved her so much!
There's so much to love about this book and so many incredible tropes! The ending was phenomenal and one of my favorite parts! 🙌👏👏 The drama, the intensity of some of the scenes, the trauma, the spice😩🙌😍😍 Everything was incredibly done!!
Tropes:
🖤Forbidden romance
🔥Steamy
🖤Slow burn
🔥Dark romance
🖤Forced proximity
Thanks so much to the author and Sunny Babe PR for the ARC!
♡Connor & Cali♡
This author absolutely nailed the slowburn/dark romance aspects of this story! Omg how obsessed I am with Connor😍🥵 He's the ultimate MMC, and the touch her and 💀 vibes were the best🙌🙌 Cali is a feisty FMC, and I loved her so much!
There's so much to love about this book and so many incredible tropes! The ending was phenomenal and one of my favorite parts! 🙌👏👏 The drama, the intensity of some of the scenes, the trauma, the spice😩🙌😍😍 Everything was incredibly done!!
Tropes:
🖤Forbidden romance
🔥Steamy
🖤Slow burn
🔥Dark romance
🖤Forced proximity
Thanks so much to the author and Sunny Babe PR for the ARC!
May 4, 2025
Connor found his mom and Cali’s dad. He was accused of their deaths. After he got out he was ordered to stay at Cali’s house during his house arrest. Cali is definitely not happy about it. But they get closer. And even closer. The taboo part of this wasn’t a deal breaker for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 22, 2025
I couldn’t help but admire Cali, our fierce and resilient FMC, who refuses to crumble under the immense pressure thrust upon her. Just three years after the brutal murder of her parents, she returns home to step into her father’s shoes as CEO of the family’s shipping empire. Her grandfather, who's been acting as interim CEO, and her formidable yiayia are ready to retire to Crete, leaving Cali not only with the keys to the kingdom but also with an impossible emotional burden. And then comes the ultimate bombshell—Connor, her stepbrother and the man once accused of their parents’ murder, is also back home… under house arrest, no less. Though cleared of the crime, Cali has always held him responsible. Not because the evidence demanded it, but because she needed someone to blame. But forced into close quarters, that certainty begins to unravel. The longer they orbit each other, the more the lines blur and the tension between them sizzles. I was genuinely shocked when Cali’s grandparents left her to navigate this storm solo. Not only did they abandon her to confront her tangled feelings for Connor, but they also gave her zero runway to get a handle on the company before handing over the reins. You could feel her struggle to earn respect from the old-guard board members, but I loved watching her slowly claim her power. And surprisingly, it’s Connor who becomes her anchor. From quiet dinners to unexpected emotional support, he’s there—anticipating her needs, challenging her assumptions, and helping her rise to the occasion. The chemistry between them is undeniable; it’s intense, smoldering, and maddeningly slow to ignite. But when it does? It’s absolutely electric. Their connection is more than physical—it’s layered, complicated, and deeply emotional, as both confront the trauma that shaped them. But this story isn’t just about forbidden love. There’s a thread of mystery woven throughout as Cali uncovers fresh leads in her parents’ murder. While the reveal of the killer may not have been a total shock, the journey there, full of twists, emotional landmines, and clever misdirection was gripping. While not quite as dark as I expected, this novel was a solid win in the slow-burn, forbidden romance genre. Tense, emotional, and layered with suspense, it’s the kind of story that will keep you reading long into the night.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 26, 2025
I love sharing my opinion on the books I read, so I was very excited to receive my first ARC. This is also the first book by N.D. Roldan that I read.
The story follows Connor & Cali, stepsiblings whose parents were murdered some years before, as they are "forced" to live together once Connor is released from prison & under house arrest.
Connor was the primary suspect in their parents' murder but was found not guilty during his trial. He still struggles with overcoming the trauma of being in prison for a few years. Cali, on the other hand, is the overachiever and is expected to take over her father's business as the CEO of a shipping company. Having to deal with each other daily triggers forbidden feelings and curiosity about one another; plus, they eventually work together to try and uncover who was behind what happened to their parents.
I liked the forced proximity & forbidden romance themes, and the two-person point of view. Both Connor and Cali have their inner demons, which they slowly explore as they open up and start trusting each other. The relationship development is good, moving at a moderate pace allowing the reader to enjoy the pining after one another. I eventually found myself saying out loud after some of their interactions, "Kiss her already!"
The bits of the story around their parents' murder fell a bit flat for me. It could have been more exciting or more complex as I found its progression as well as its conclusion predictable.
Also, Cali is not a memorable FMC, in my opinion. While I did not dislike her, I also did not love her. Over time, I found myself not caring about her whining over the hard day she had at work. I did relate with her feelings of wanting to strive and earn respect in a corporate world.
Connor is more interesting: he is a bit morally grey but caring and focused on tending to Cali's needs at the same time. His past is more complex, resulting in a better character. I also felt he carried 90% of the weight in the spicy scenes.
Sweet Sinners is an easy read you can enjoy as a palate cleanser, or if you are looking for the romance itself over an intricate plot.
The story follows Connor & Cali, stepsiblings whose parents were murdered some years before, as they are "forced" to live together once Connor is released from prison & under house arrest.
Connor was the primary suspect in their parents' murder but was found not guilty during his trial. He still struggles with overcoming the trauma of being in prison for a few years. Cali, on the other hand, is the overachiever and is expected to take over her father's business as the CEO of a shipping company. Having to deal with each other daily triggers forbidden feelings and curiosity about one another; plus, they eventually work together to try and uncover who was behind what happened to their parents.
I liked the forced proximity & forbidden romance themes, and the two-person point of view. Both Connor and Cali have their inner demons, which they slowly explore as they open up and start trusting each other. The relationship development is good, moving at a moderate pace allowing the reader to enjoy the pining after one another. I eventually found myself saying out loud after some of their interactions, "Kiss her already!"
The bits of the story around their parents' murder fell a bit flat for me. It could have been more exciting or more complex as I found its progression as well as its conclusion predictable.
Also, Cali is not a memorable FMC, in my opinion. While I did not dislike her, I also did not love her. Over time, I found myself not caring about her whining over the hard day she had at work. I did relate with her feelings of wanting to strive and earn respect in a corporate world.
Connor is more interesting: he is a bit morally grey but caring and focused on tending to Cali's needs at the same time. His past is more complex, resulting in a better character. I also felt he carried 90% of the weight in the spicy scenes.
Sweet Sinners is an easy read you can enjoy as a palate cleanser, or if you are looking for the romance itself over an intricate plot.
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