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Broken News
He was supposed to hurt him. Ruin him. Instead, he fell in love.
In the big, bad city, Eric West holds the reins. A mafia king, he is feared, ruthless, and obsessed with a man half his age.
Will, his favorite whore, is young, beautiful, and the only person to ever bring him to his knees.
Will is a man to kill for.
A man to change for.
But what if Will isn’t what he seems?
*** Broken News is a standalone M/M mafia romance featuring age gap, detailed adult content, violence, hurt/comfort, and mentions of rape/dubious consent.***
In the big, bad city, Eric West holds the reins. A mafia king, he is feared, ruthless, and obsessed with a man half his age.
Will, his favorite whore, is young, beautiful, and the only person to ever bring him to his knees.
Will is a man to kill for.
A man to change for.
But what if Will isn’t what he seems?
*** Broken News is a standalone M/M mafia romance featuring age gap, detailed adult content, violence, hurt/comfort, and mentions of rape/dubious consent.***
233 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 22, 2019
103 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Sara Dobie Bauer
56 books367 followersBestselling romance author.
Green witch.
Feminist. Pro-choice. Anti-censorship.
Timothee Chalamet freak.
Horror movie aficionado.
Vampire mermaid in a past life.
Sara Dobie Bauer somehow survived her party-hard college years at Ohio University to earn a creative writing degree. She lives with her precious Pit Bull in Northeast Ohio, although she’d really like to live in a Tim Burton film.
Green witch.
Feminist. Pro-choice. Anti-censorship.
Timothee Chalamet freak.
Horror movie aficionado.
Vampire mermaid in a past life.
Sara Dobie Bauer somehow survived her party-hard college years at Ohio University to earn a creative writing degree. She lives with her precious Pit Bull in Northeast Ohio, although she’d really like to live in a Tim Burton film.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
April 19, 2021
3.75 stars
This one started as a sample. I was just going to sample then leave it on my long list of tbr for another day. Clearly that didn't happen and I ended up with a very entertaining Sunday afternoon courtesy of this book.
I went into this thinking it was going to be some seriously dark Mafia story what I got was completely different. Instalove with some D class movie action scenes. That is when I decided to go with the flow and not take anything seriously. The result was epic laughter and some awwww moments.
Our MCs had some major chemistry. I loved Will and Eric. But I think Eric is a not so interesting name for a mob boss. In my head his name was Bill the butcher. That being said, this mob boss has a heart and it is reserved for Will.
I loved everything until around 80% when it all went to soapy OTT action mode, by that time I was already hooked and was willing to overlook all that.
It was fun.
This one started as a sample. I was just going to sample then leave it on my long list of tbr for another day. Clearly that didn't happen and I ended up with a very entertaining Sunday afternoon courtesy of this book.
I went into this thinking it was going to be some seriously dark Mafia story what I got was completely different. Instalove with some D class movie action scenes. That is when I decided to go with the flow and not take anything seriously. The result was epic laughter and some awwww moments.
Our MCs had some major chemistry. I loved Will and Eric. But I think Eric is a not so interesting name for a mob boss. In my head his name was Bill the butcher. That being said, this mob boss has a heart and it is reserved for Will.
I loved everything until around 80% when it all went to soapy OTT action mode, by that time I was already hooked and was willing to overlook all that.
It was fun.
September 2, 2019
DNF @ 40%
The blurb was interesting but so far I felt NOTHING... Maybe it's just me, hope you enjoy it more than me!
The blurb was interesting but so far I felt NOTHING... Maybe it's just me, hope you enjoy it more than me!
July 29, 2019
Some spoilers ahead! 😁
This is a very different book from Sara Dobie Bauer’s usual writing style. 😌 However it’s undeniably a very suspenseful, erotic and romantic read. ❤️ I do have one thing to say about this book though, and that is readers should consider this book as an alternative reality rather than a dark contemporary romance. Because if you are fastidious about the storyline being realistic, this book might not be for you because everything is totally bonkers! 😁
Eric is a closeted mafia Don who is seriously unhappy with everything. He’s married to a woman he doesn’t love, his work is extremely stressful and other gangs will come for his life when they realizes he’s into dick rather than a chick. So when his best friend gave him the most beautiful whore he’s ever seen as a present for one night, he was very grateful with the gift. Granted, Will is a very beautiful and expensive whore but he’s worth every penny. Thus the infatuation began. First, it was the whole night every week. Then he wanted more. And finally, he wanted exclusivity from Will. Meanwhile, Will is actually a undercover reporter hellbent on getting dirt from Eric West, the most feared mafia Don in the city. And what’s worse than a whore falling for his John you ask? The answer is a reporter falling for his mark. Will is under no illusion that Eric West is secretly a good guy. He knows Eric is ruthless, savage and totally capable of murder. After all, the man killed for him. But the heart wants what it wants and Will is losing more and more of his reality in Eric’s obsessive love.
So what do I say about this book? 😁 Oh my, everything is totally crazy! Eric’s obsession, Will’s undercover assignment, the gangs’ hierarchy, the madam of the whorehouse, everything is totally bonkers! 😅 But my, I couldn’t put down this book at the same time. If you can suspend your need for reality for a moment, you will see how great this book is. Eric and Will’s love for each other is totally unhealthy and downright obsessive but they definitely are made for each other. ❤️ And the sex?!?!? OMG! Those are insanely insanely hot hot sex scenes! 🔥🔥🔥 Sara definitely knows how to make her readers happy. 😁 Overall, it was dark, delicious and totally enthralling. Loved it. 💜
4 I will kill the whole world for one passionate kiss from you stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Disclaimer: An advanced review copy of this book was provided by the author for an honest and unbiased review.
This is a very different book from Sara Dobie Bauer’s usual writing style. 😌 However it’s undeniably a very suspenseful, erotic and romantic read. ❤️ I do have one thing to say about this book though, and that is readers should consider this book as an alternative reality rather than a dark contemporary romance. Because if you are fastidious about the storyline being realistic, this book might not be for you because everything is totally bonkers! 😁
Eric is a closeted mafia Don who is seriously unhappy with everything. He’s married to a woman he doesn’t love, his work is extremely stressful and other gangs will come for his life when they realizes he’s into dick rather than a chick. So when his best friend gave him the most beautiful whore he’s ever seen as a present for one night, he was very grateful with the gift. Granted, Will is a very beautiful and expensive whore but he’s worth every penny. Thus the infatuation began. First, it was the whole night every week. Then he wanted more. And finally, he wanted exclusivity from Will. Meanwhile, Will is actually a undercover reporter hellbent on getting dirt from Eric West, the most feared mafia Don in the city. And what’s worse than a whore falling for his John you ask? The answer is a reporter falling for his mark. Will is under no illusion that Eric West is secretly a good guy. He knows Eric is ruthless, savage and totally capable of murder. After all, the man killed for him. But the heart wants what it wants and Will is losing more and more of his reality in Eric’s obsessive love.
So what do I say about this book? 😁 Oh my, everything is totally crazy! Eric’s obsession, Will’s undercover assignment, the gangs’ hierarchy, the madam of the whorehouse, everything is totally bonkers! 😅 But my, I couldn’t put down this book at the same time. If you can suspend your need for reality for a moment, you will see how great this book is. Eric and Will’s love for each other is totally unhealthy and downright obsessive but they definitely are made for each other. ❤️ And the sex?!?!? OMG! Those are insanely insanely hot hot sex scenes! 🔥🔥🔥 Sara definitely knows how to make her readers happy. 😁 Overall, it was dark, delicious and totally enthralling. Loved it. 💜
4 I will kill the whole world for one passionate kiss from you stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Disclaimer: An advanced review copy of this book was provided by the author for an honest and unbiased review.
August 25, 2019
Couldn't put it down.
Available on KU at the moment.
Available on KU at the moment.
August 3, 2020
***2.5*** for Effort, clean writing, somewhat novel idea ... but the follow through & execution didn't work for me
I don't know what happened?!?! From gorgeous cover, intriguing premise, and a writer I've enjoyed before I was expecting to if not to love to at least seriously like this and yet ... I'm kind of speechless. Bad is easier to handle than this. It was like getting fast food at a white tablecloth restaurant: unexpected & disappointed.
I don't know what happened?!?! From gorgeous cover, intriguing premise, and a writer I've enjoyed before I was expecting to if not to love to at least seriously like this and yet ... I'm kind of speechless. Bad is easier to handle than this. It was like getting fast food at a white tablecloth restaurant: unexpected & disappointed.
September 8, 2020
3.5 stars
Until the last chapter, this was a solid 4 stars.
Is it realistic? No, everything about this story is unbelievable.
Are the MCs likeable? No, they are both horrible people.
Is it entertaining? HELL YEAH!
Eric is a married gay mob boss who frequents a whorehouse to satisfy his sexual needs, because being gay doesn’t fly well in his business. Will is a whore who is out to get him. Yet they fall in love with each other. Instalove. 🤷♀️
It was an amazing crazy ride. It reminded me a bit of the last season of the Sopranos, when everything falls apart for Tony. Except with a HEA because it’s a romance novel. So The Sopranos meets Pretty Woman. Gay version. Amazing and OTT. 😂😍
But. I hated the end. My “suspend disbelief” mindset has apparently run its course and it was just too much. You can’t win them all.
I still recommend it. It’s unputdownable. And so much fun.
Until the last chapter, this was a solid 4 stars.
Is it realistic? No, everything about this story is unbelievable.
Are the MCs likeable? No, they are both horrible people.
Is it entertaining? HELL YEAH!
Eric is a married gay mob boss who frequents a whorehouse to satisfy his sexual needs, because being gay doesn’t fly well in his business. Will is a whore who is out to get him. Yet they fall in love with each other. Instalove. 🤷♀️
It was an amazing crazy ride. It reminded me a bit of the last season of the Sopranos, when everything falls apart for Tony. Except with a HEA because it’s a romance novel. So The Sopranos meets Pretty Woman. Gay version. Amazing and OTT. 😂😍
But. I hated the end. My “suspend disbelief” mindset has apparently run its course and it was just too much. You can’t win them all.
I still recommend it. It’s unputdownable. And so much fun.
August 23, 2019
In a tough world of crime and underhanded dealings two men meet under false pretenses. Neither is innocent or particularly good, and each takes what they need from another. Between the sheets they burn hot, out of them they lie and deceive. But are people irredeemable when love finally finds them? This is a story of a crime boss who is willing to give up everything for love and a rent boy who can not betray the man he fell for.
Eric West rules with iron hand. Everyone fears and respects him. His marriage is a sham, and the only place he can indulge, Le Chateau, offers his favorite flavor. Small, delicate and delicious. One night with mysterious Will makes him come back for more, and his carefully constructed life begins to unravel. From passion comes possessiveness, then jealousy and anger that quickly turn into love that not even death can crush. Eric is sometimes in conflict with his desires and what must be done. His inability to love his wife that he married out of obligation, the crimes he commits for love should make him look very bad indeed. Except in moments of vulnerability, I saw a very lonely man who survived on his wits and cunning in the world where one misstep would get you killed. But for Will he will do anything, forgive anything and survive anything.
Talking about Will would be too much of a spoiler. He is not a downtrodden suffering man but one who took his life in his hands when the opportunity was offered. He is on the road to success, if only his heart doesn't get in the way. Eric West is the criminal who will go down and he will make it happen except that what he thought appeared false, what he felt changed and he was left with self recriminations and a broken heart that was all of his own making. I loved how he slowly changed his mind and saw more in Eric than everyone else did. Their moments together started extremely hot, but as time passed carnal desire gave way to aching tenderness and affection.
In the middle of the lover's trouble stood two women that showed that it's not the circumstances that make the woman but the person herself. The juxtaposition between caring Catherine and angry Melanie was well written and made this a terrific read. There is but so much one can take before love turns into coldness, but only people themselves can turn it into hate. Love, passion, pain, blood and loss connect the characters and lead them to their happy ever after if they are strong enough to take the chance. I loved the difficult contrary characters, the dark overtones of the story and the sweetness between the men when life gave them a breather. This is not a fluffy story. It's full of angst and tough choices, and I loved every page! I highly recommend it!
Eric West rules with iron hand. Everyone fears and respects him. His marriage is a sham, and the only place he can indulge, Le Chateau, offers his favorite flavor. Small, delicate and delicious. One night with mysterious Will makes him come back for more, and his carefully constructed life begins to unravel. From passion comes possessiveness, then jealousy and anger that quickly turn into love that not even death can crush. Eric is sometimes in conflict with his desires and what must be done. His inability to love his wife that he married out of obligation, the crimes he commits for love should make him look very bad indeed. Except in moments of vulnerability, I saw a very lonely man who survived on his wits and cunning in the world where one misstep would get you killed. But for Will he will do anything, forgive anything and survive anything.
Talking about Will would be too much of a spoiler. He is not a downtrodden suffering man but one who took his life in his hands when the opportunity was offered. He is on the road to success, if only his heart doesn't get in the way. Eric West is the criminal who will go down and he will make it happen except that what he thought appeared false, what he felt changed and he was left with self recriminations and a broken heart that was all of his own making. I loved how he slowly changed his mind and saw more in Eric than everyone else did. Their moments together started extremely hot, but as time passed carnal desire gave way to aching tenderness and affection.
In the middle of the lover's trouble stood two women that showed that it's not the circumstances that make the woman but the person herself. The juxtaposition between caring Catherine and angry Melanie was well written and made this a terrific read. There is but so much one can take before love turns into coldness, but only people themselves can turn it into hate. Love, passion, pain, blood and loss connect the characters and lead them to their happy ever after if they are strong enough to take the chance. I loved the difficult contrary characters, the dark overtones of the story and the sweetness between the men when life gave them a breather. This is not a fluffy story. It's full of angst and tough choices, and I loved every page! I highly recommend it!
August 22, 2019
The activities which surround the head of a crime family are not for the faint of heart, and Sara Dobie Bauer explores the darkness in Broken News. Ms. Bauer doesn’t hold back, and while there is gorgeous, steamy sex and a soul-stirring romance, Broken News mainly focuses on this violent and gripping tale of deception.
Raised on the streets, Will did what he had to survive. After a brief escape for college, Will returns to the city with a plan to ensure he can leave that world behind forever. Posing as a high-end male prostitute, Will knows how to make himself irresistible to mobster Eric West. Putting the mafia king behind bars, and writing the tell-all novel, will solidify his future as a journalist.
Considering the violence, duplicity, and criminal activity which encompasses Eric’s life it’s no surprise the man would grasp any opportunity for a brief taste of pleasure, and one night of Will’s attention has him hooked. Unfortunately, falling in love with his male lover is just the start of Eric’s troubles, and the consequences are more than he’s bargained for.
As events unfold and both men’s true characters are revealed, I couldn’t help wishing for Eric to find some peace. While Will’s charade kept me wondering about his sincerity, there wasn’t a moment where I doubted Eric’s integrity. At every turn Eric does what he feels is the right thing. Even though this man is responsible for some truly heinous activity, he approaches it in a straightforward and honest way. Beneath the intimidating facade, Eric is a man who just wants to be loved.
Sara Dobie Bauer creates an entrancing world in this story. There’s a 1950ish, slightly dystopian feel, and without specifying a time period or location, I can easily picture it all. Vivid descriptions of the opulence of Miss. Catherine’s whorehouse. Lavish gowns, bespoke suits, and ritzy furnishings. Plus, a lack of modern devices adds to the sensation of an earlier time.
It’s easy to get lost in Sara Dobie Bauer’s novels. Thrilling adventures, lush details, and (best of all) creative characters with powerful connections. Broken News is another example of the unique and captivating worlds created by this talented author.
Raised on the streets, Will did what he had to survive. After a brief escape for college, Will returns to the city with a plan to ensure he can leave that world behind forever. Posing as a high-end male prostitute, Will knows how to make himself irresistible to mobster Eric West. Putting the mafia king behind bars, and writing the tell-all novel, will solidify his future as a journalist.
Considering the violence, duplicity, and criminal activity which encompasses Eric’s life it’s no surprise the man would grasp any opportunity for a brief taste of pleasure, and one night of Will’s attention has him hooked. Unfortunately, falling in love with his male lover is just the start of Eric’s troubles, and the consequences are more than he’s bargained for.
As events unfold and both men’s true characters are revealed, I couldn’t help wishing for Eric to find some peace. While Will’s charade kept me wondering about his sincerity, there wasn’t a moment where I doubted Eric’s integrity. At every turn Eric does what he feels is the right thing. Even though this man is responsible for some truly heinous activity, he approaches it in a straightforward and honest way. Beneath the intimidating facade, Eric is a man who just wants to be loved.
Sara Dobie Bauer creates an entrancing world in this story. There’s a 1950ish, slightly dystopian feel, and without specifying a time period or location, I can easily picture it all. Vivid descriptions of the opulence of Miss. Catherine’s whorehouse. Lavish gowns, bespoke suits, and ritzy furnishings. Plus, a lack of modern devices adds to the sensation of an earlier time.
It’s easy to get lost in Sara Dobie Bauer’s novels. Thrilling adventures, lush details, and (best of all) creative characters with powerful connections. Broken News is another example of the unique and captivating worlds created by this talented author.
not-for-me
October 31, 2020Proof that just because you really enjoyed one book by an author that you may hate their other books.
August 22, 2019
Dang what an emotional rollercoaster. Mafioso practice, whoring, lies, deceive is what this story is about.
When Eric, the big guy from the dark side of civilization, meets the breathtaking beautiful whore Will he is head over heels.
Little does he know that everything was premeditated. Nothing is what it seems.
A fast paced, spectacular thriller. Amazingly captivating written. It had so much in it.
Exceptional personalities with exceptional performance!
Highly sensitive actions, horrible vengeance, sweet lovemaking, an excellent plot.
All this author’s work is always top leveling and with depth.
When Eric, the big guy from the dark side of civilization, meets the breathtaking beautiful whore Will he is head over heels.
Little does he know that everything was premeditated. Nothing is what it seems.
A fast paced, spectacular thriller. Amazingly captivating written. It had so much in it.
Exceptional personalities with exceptional performance!
Highly sensitive actions, horrible vengeance, sweet lovemaking, an excellent plot.
All this author’s work is always top leveling and with depth.
September 8, 2019
That was quite a breath-taking ride!
Yes, you have to suspend your belief a little bit, and maybe I would have liked a little bit more depth on the development of feelings on Simon’s side, but …
I couldn’t put this down. I had not the slightest idea how this could possibly work out, but I’m glad it did in the end. For me this was pure indulgence in one of the oldest tropes in romance:
A bad guy (Eric, the mafia boss) falls in love with a whore (Simon, a journalist in real life, trying to take him down). You can guess the countless problem ensuing ....!
And it was very well done! Saying that, the whole scenario is very much on the romantic rather than the realistic side, but it didn’t matter at all!
This was super tense, very entertaining and a great read!
Yes, you have to suspend your belief a little bit, and maybe I would have liked a little bit more depth on the development of feelings on Simon’s side, but …
I couldn’t put this down. I had not the slightest idea how this could possibly work out, but I’m glad it did in the end. For me this was pure indulgence in one of the oldest tropes in romance:
A bad guy (Eric, the mafia boss) falls in love with a whore (Simon, a journalist in real life, trying to take him down). You can guess the countless problem ensuing ....!
And it was very well done! Saying that, the whole scenario is very much on the romantic rather than the realistic side, but it didn’t matter at all!
This was super tense, very entertaining and a great read!
August 22, 2019
I haven't read books about mafia for awhile, and this book brought me something I truly love.
Sara writes some wonderful characters and a heart stopping story. You don't want to miss this one!
Sara writes some wonderful characters and a heart stopping story. You don't want to miss this one!
September 10, 2019
This was an addictive read ~ I truly couldn’t put it down. Well-written, the prose flows effortlessly between the three points of view. The main characters are well crafted, sympathetic and flawed, however I would have preferred some more introspection from Simon in regards to his feelings for Eric. Simon was complex and I wasn’t entirely sure until around the 85% mark how he truly felt about Eric. There was also a fairly major plot issue towards the end that had me rolling my eyes because it seemed doom to fail, hence my 4/5 stars.
January 19, 2020
I wasn’t feeling the book at first, I was struggling to stay focused. Towards the middle I was hooked and that ending!!! I only wished Eric was a bit more menacing. You think mob, organized crime, I think ruthless. Lol. Great book though.
August 1, 2019
Sara Dobie Bauer, your words do things to my heart. Even a story like this, with murder and fists, I can't get enough.
Eric is powerful and rich and he gets what he wants. And after seeing Will once at the bordello, he's hooked in a way he's never known.
Will is young and beautiful, but there's more to him than just his body. He captivates Eric, and even though he's just doing a job, Eric gets under his skin as well.
Secrets are told, blood is shed, love is made.
There are so many twists, so many edge of your seat moments, and so much heat in this single book, you won't be able to put it down. It's just beautiful.
Eric is powerful and rich and he gets what he wants. And after seeing Will once at the bordello, he's hooked in a way he's never known.
Will is young and beautiful, but there's more to him than just his body. He captivates Eric, and even though he's just doing a job, Eric gets under his skin as well.
Secrets are told, blood is shed, love is made.
There are so many twists, so many edge of your seat moments, and so much heat in this single book, you won't be able to put it down. It's just beautiful.
September 19, 2019
3.5 very dark stars
A new-to-me-author, I kind of enjoyed this dark story with a Godfather-ish setting, only the Don is gay. Will/Simon was a fairly sympathetic character but too clever for his own good. Eric became...understandable, I guess, as the crime lord falling for the supposed whore. Lots of bullets, blood, murder, and lots of violence, much of it happening to poor Simon. It was OTT in many ways with criminal-gangster stereotypes mixed with unexpected twists and turns.
It’s kind of hard to call it a romance with the few tender moments feeling overwhelmed by more disturbing interactions between Eric and Simon. The sex was fairly hot but it was hard to tell what makes them fall in love since neither man wants to admit to feels. I do enjoy this sort of criminals in love scenario though. The plot was clever although the culmination was a bit predictable but still reaches an HEA. I’ll be sure to check out more from the authors backlist.
A new-to-me-author, I kind of enjoyed this dark story with a Godfather-ish setting, only the Don is gay. Will/Simon was a fairly sympathetic character but too clever for his own good. Eric became...understandable, I guess, as the crime lord falling for the supposed whore. Lots of bullets, blood, murder, and lots of violence, much of it happening to poor Simon. It was OTT in many ways with criminal-gangster stereotypes mixed with unexpected twists and turns.
It’s kind of hard to call it a romance with the few tender moments feeling overwhelmed by more disturbing interactions between Eric and Simon. The sex was fairly hot but it was hard to tell what makes them fall in love since neither man wants to admit to feels. I do enjoy this sort of criminals in love scenario though. The plot was clever although the culmination was a bit predictable but still reaches an HEA. I’ll be sure to check out more from the authors backlist.
August 28, 2019
A mm mafia story....sign me up. Anticipation of a gritty dark romance...lets go!
Right off the bat...the writing was not for me. The introduction of Eric was incredibly cheesy and too be honest, my biggest problem was the writing style.
I found that the only reason Eric was so entrapped by Will was mainly because he was beautiful. They spent all their time having sex with a little bit of talking and somehow that equated to love. I just didn't buy that insta love bit...instalust? Yes, definitely.
Will was basically used as a punching bag for literally everyone in this story! I lost count of how often Will was beaten and knocked unconscious. Seriously, how is he still flawlessly beautiful after all that damage.
3 stars. ⭐⭐⭐
Right off the bat...the writing was not for me. The introduction of Eric was incredibly cheesy and too be honest, my biggest problem was the writing style.
I found that the only reason Eric was so entrapped by Will was mainly because he was beautiful. They spent all their time having sex with a little bit of talking and somehow that equated to love. I just didn't buy that insta love bit...instalust? Yes, definitely.
Will was basically used as a punching bag for literally everyone in this story! I lost count of how often Will was beaten and knocked unconscious. Seriously, how is he still flawlessly beautiful after all that damage.
3 stars. ⭐⭐⭐
April 15, 2022
3 Stars
September 23, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
When you open a book about a mafia king and his self-described whore, you know you are in for something that runs a little darker, maybe a little edgier. The book is a bit more self-contained as we see Eric and Will mostly during their interactions in their private room and then at their respective homes. There is a lot of talk about Eric’s business, but this story covers more of the personal side of his life. Eric is mostly miserable. Sure he is the head of a mafia family and has plenty of wealth, but his marriage is a lie, his wife is unstable, and he has no choice but to indulge in secretive trysts and Will is the first man that keeps him coming back for more.
There is a reveal early on in this book that flips this story from how it seems in the opening. Even though it is revealed early, it is still best to enjoy that reveal on your own. With that, I then can’t get into the specifics of the plot, but several things are not what they seem at first glance.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
When you open a book about a mafia king and his self-described whore, you know you are in for something that runs a little darker, maybe a little edgier. The book is a bit more self-contained as we see Eric and Will mostly during their interactions in their private room and then at their respective homes. There is a lot of talk about Eric’s business, but this story covers more of the personal side of his life. Eric is mostly miserable. Sure he is the head of a mafia family and has plenty of wealth, but his marriage is a lie, his wife is unstable, and he has no choice but to indulge in secretive trysts and Will is the first man that keeps him coming back for more.
There is a reveal early on in this book that flips this story from how it seems in the opening. Even though it is revealed early, it is still best to enjoy that reveal on your own. With that, I then can’t get into the specifics of the plot, but several things are not what they seem at first glance.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
August 24, 2019
i actually didn’t like this book. i didn’t like the MCs especially Eric. for someone who was supposedly the head of a “mafia group” or whatever, Eric was quite stupid and made a lot of bad decisions also Mel didn’t deserve to die.
September 24, 2019
Novela de amor y mafia.... ja!, no encontré casi amor y los mafiosos dan risa.
La historia es tan irreal y los personajes tan poco creíbles que no te deja disfrutarla.
La historia es tan irreal y los personajes tan poco creíbles que no te deja disfrutarla.
October 17, 2019
Real damn enjoyable!
November 7, 2025
2022 = 4 stars / review written
2024 = 3 stars / review written
(While still entertaining, it wasn't a good romance.)
An MM Soap-Opera Mafia Romance
Aside from a handful of mafia characters and some references to their activities, the plot has little to do with the workings of the mafia itself.
2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣4️⃣
▪️ A mob boss who hasn't killed in 10-years but has his men do the killing for him, falls for an undercover reporter who's posing as a high-class prostitute.
▪️ The reporter plans to take down the mob boss's operation, exact revenge, and boost his career. Somehow he develops feelings along the way.
▪️ Lies exposed, a few Mafia bad guys and an insane wife threaten their HEA.
Eric West (43), Mafia king/boss/lord
is married to Melanie, the previous boss's daughter.
Rob is his right-hand man and best friend.
He's .
Simon (23) is the reporter aka Will the prostitute.
Catherine (30's), madam of Le Chateau, found Simon prostituting on the streets at 16 and became a close friend and maternal figure. She ultimately saves the MCs, as Eric is not a tough Mafia boss. Rebecca’s death, a young prostitute Cat failed to save, prompted Cat and Simon to plan Eric’s downfall.
The Villains:
Melanie is a crazy alcoholic who wants to be loved.
Tom Turner is a mob boss, a violent thug and a sexual deviant, who becomes obsessed with Will.
Gideon, Tom's father, is overseas running the business there. He seeks revenge after his son is killed.
This wasn't a satisfying romance. The MCs didn't spend enough time together to develop a loving relationship. They begin with brief, low-steam sex scenes, followed by a few conversations. There's only one full-length sex scene that is PG-13, medium-steam.
I enjoyed Simon and Catherine’s relationship the most. Their deep care and willingness to protect each other are clearly shown, and genuinely felt.
Though the story is absurd, it moves quickly and isn’t boring. It's often dark with violent scenes, beatings, and sexual abuse. Most characters are morally gray, but the villains are all bad. The ending was exciting when the villains were taken care of. 👏😁
★ A favorite scene was when Eric found out the truth and confronted Simon at his apartment. In that tense moment, Simon thought he was about to be killed. He had come to terms with death and never expected to live as long as he did. 😢
👍 Excellent character descriptions and a favorite trope—Eric is tall, muscular and handsome, while Simon is small, thin and beautiful.
Two Examples of the Unrealistic Plot:
🔸Simon, after living on the streets for two years, not only finishes high school but also earns a full scholarship to Yale.
🔸Melanie seemed to know everything that was happening, even when locked away. She went from a paranoid alcoholic to an evil mastermind. 🥳 It was a big relief when Catherine .
👎 religious swearwords
43 J's, J.C. or C.
2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣2️⃣
📴 Turn off your sense of disbelief before starting.
This book was one wild roller coaster ride! I expected a serious mafia romance, but instead, I got something more like a parody of the genre. I had to abandon any hope of realism and just sit back and enjoy the show.
Eric is married to Melanie, a woman he basically inherited when the old mob boss died and left him the business. He’s in the closet and turns to an upscale whorehouse to fulfill his sexual desires. It’s there that he meets a prostitute named 'Will,' who's actually
Simon is an undercover reporter who wants to write about Eric's criminal activities to get a job promotion, and possibly a book deal. There's also a revenge plot afoot as well.
This is an OTT story of love, betrayal, friendship, and retribution.
All the action and drama kept my interest. It was like a soap opera with plenty of melodrama and violence. Simon gets beat up and nearly dies a few times.
All I can say is that:
❤️ Simon's friend, Catherine, was a great character. She was there for Simon from beginning to end, and was one strong, kick-butt lady. Definitely one of the better female characters that I've read about in a m/m romance.
Here's how I pictured Eric and Simon:
2024 = 3 stars / review written
(While still entertaining, it wasn't a good romance.)
An MM Soap-Opera Mafia Romance
Aside from a handful of mafia characters and some references to their activities, the plot has little to do with the workings of the mafia itself.
2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣4️⃣
▪️ A mob boss who hasn't killed in 10-years but has his men do the killing for him, falls for an undercover reporter who's posing as a high-class prostitute.
▪️ The reporter plans to take down the mob boss's operation, exact revenge, and boost his career. Somehow he develops feelings along the way.
▪️ Lies exposed, a few Mafia bad guys and an insane wife threaten their HEA.
Eric West (43), Mafia king/boss/lord
is married to Melanie, the previous boss's daughter.
Rob is his right-hand man and best friend.
He's .
Simon (23) is the reporter aka Will the prostitute.
Catherine (30's), madam of Le Chateau, found Simon prostituting on the streets at 16 and became a close friend and maternal figure. She ultimately saves the MCs, as Eric is not a tough Mafia boss. Rebecca’s death, a young prostitute Cat failed to save, prompted Cat and Simon to plan Eric’s downfall.
The Villains:
Melanie is a crazy alcoholic who wants to be loved.
Tom Turner is a mob boss, a violent thug and a sexual deviant, who becomes obsessed with Will.
Gideon, Tom's father, is overseas running the business there. He seeks revenge after his son is killed.
This wasn't a satisfying romance. The MCs didn't spend enough time together to develop a loving relationship. They begin with brief, low-steam sex scenes, followed by a few conversations. There's only one full-length sex scene that is PG-13, medium-steam.
I enjoyed Simon and Catherine’s relationship the most. Their deep care and willingness to protect each other are clearly shown, and genuinely felt.
Though the story is absurd, it moves quickly and isn’t boring. It's often dark with violent scenes, beatings, and sexual abuse. Most characters are morally gray, but the villains are all bad. The ending was exciting when the villains were taken care of. 👏😁
★ A favorite scene was when Eric found out the truth and confronted Simon at his apartment. In that tense moment, Simon thought he was about to be killed. He had come to terms with death and never expected to live as long as he did. 😢
👍 Excellent character descriptions and a favorite trope—Eric is tall, muscular and handsome, while Simon is small, thin and beautiful.
Two Examples of the Unrealistic Plot:
🔸Simon, after living on the streets for two years, not only finishes high school but also earns a full scholarship to Yale.
🔸Melanie seemed to know everything that was happening, even when locked away. She went from a paranoid alcoholic to an evil mastermind. 🥳 It was a big relief when Catherine .
👎 religious swearwords
43 J's, J.C. or C.
2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣2️⃣
📴 Turn off your sense of disbelief before starting.
This book was one wild roller coaster ride! I expected a serious mafia romance, but instead, I got something more like a parody of the genre. I had to abandon any hope of realism and just sit back and enjoy the show.
Eric is married to Melanie, a woman he basically inherited when the old mob boss died and left him the business. He’s in the closet and turns to an upscale whorehouse to fulfill his sexual desires. It’s there that he meets a prostitute named 'Will,' who's actually
Simon is an undercover reporter who wants to write about Eric's criminal activities to get a job promotion, and possibly a book deal. There's also a revenge plot afoot as well.
This is an OTT story of love, betrayal, friendship, and retribution.
All the action and drama kept my interest. It was like a soap opera with plenty of melodrama and violence. Simon gets beat up and nearly dies a few times.
All I can say is that:
❤️ Simon's friend, Catherine, was a great character. She was there for Simon from beginning to end, and was one strong, kick-butt lady. Definitely one of the better female characters that I've read about in a m/m romance.
Here's how I pictured Eric and Simon:
February 3, 2020
Different
This was truly not what I expected. It was a page turner it kept my interest from start to finish. The characters were such tortured souls. The many twists keeps you engaged.
This was truly not what I expected. It was a page turner it kept my interest from start to finish. The characters were such tortured souls. The many twists keeps you engaged.
August 26, 2019
What I Think: This review is starting with a warning for it is a dark tale and not for the soft of heart. But it has all the elements of a tale that can’t go wrong – a mafia don, a beautiful whore, a loving brothel madam and a truckload of secrets. Now throw in age gap and size difference which are all fetishes of mine and this tale had my utmost attention from page 1. This Authoress knows her craft and the impossibility of this love affair became a backdrop against which her almost brutal way of writing shone. Then the pain began to trickle in. My heart bled for Eric’s wife and I actually wanted to see Eric punished for that crime amongst other crimes but even that didn’t last very long because as the tale progressed, I no longer knew who to pity. Eric with his secrets or Will with his own secrets or Catherine as she tries to love the boy that’s ‘brother, son and almost lover to her’. I just knew it was all going to hurt and by Chapter six, the pain had descended. No matter how strong we try to be, there comes a time when we all break and watching Will reach breaking point made my heartache. By Chapter ten, my eyes were prickling so bad because Eric was being stripped down to the core of his identity by a force greater than himself. Yet, both he and Will refused to stop fighting. This tale is an impossible love in a setting I’ve often imagined and as though this was an orchestra, the lovemaking intensified as it went on, violence and love mixing up until I could barely tell where one ended and the other began. To see such sweetness and effortless love fight for survival in such a violent world lent the romance a heightened sense that makes the heart palpitate in anxiety for what is to come but the day of reckoning is never far away and when it came, I dropped Murcielago (my tablet) and let Morpheus’ arms find me. My nerves and heart needed a break before getting back into the fray which was smart because as soon as I picked it up the following day, the tension, the madness that crept up from a love worth killing for, made me pace, restless and anxious, because even I wanted to pick up my own weapon and join in that final showdown. By Chapter 19, I gave up and just read through my tears. This Authoress put me through all the damn hoops but it was so bloody worth it!
Verdict? Keep those tissues handy and watch out for an increase in violent reaction the next time anyone even glances at your loved ones wrong. This tale is a keeper for those times you need to remind yourself that love is worth killing for, dying for, but above all, it’s worth living for.
For a delicious giveaway, do follow the link below:
https://thequilleandlampe.wordpress.c...
Verdict? Keep those tissues handy and watch out for an increase in violent reaction the next time anyone even glances at your loved ones wrong. This tale is a keeper for those times you need to remind yourself that love is worth killing for, dying for, but above all, it’s worth living for.
For a delicious giveaway, do follow the link below:
https://thequilleandlampe.wordpress.c...
August 25, 2019
This is my first read of this authors work. And oh boy what a read it is too.
It is a very suspenseful thrilling romance. There are so many elements to plot, revenge, obsession, violence, deception, loyalty, love, admiration to name a few.
Eric one of the local mafia families Don, has been stuck in a loveless marriage with the former Don’s daughter. Out of loyalty to her father and as a cover for his true sexuality, he stays with his wife. And is a regular visitor to the local brothel. His closest friend and righthand man, has paid for Eric to spend the night with a new whore Will.
Will has ambitions of becoming a published author, but currently works at a local newspaper at the bottom of the ladder. To springboard his career, he has promised his editor that he can gain information against Eric. And, by doing so seek revenge for his close friend Catharine the Madam at the brothel.
Things soon spiral out of control, Eric becomes obsessed with Will, Will tries to deny that he is falling for Eric, and even keeps what little Evidence Eric lets slip, from his editor.
A spiraling chain of events leads us onto an ever-dangerous path of collision. Beatings, Threats and Deaths, a vengeful wife and a shootout with a rival gang are left in the aftermath. After all the violence and lies can the two men from two different backgrounds find happiness or even learn to trust one another.
I loved both characters, they fitted like a hand to a glove, The grizzly Mafia Don and the cute delicate twink whore. The romance is there from the start in little subtleties. But the intense suspense is nail biting all the way to the very end of the book. I heard myself shouting at Will to get out of his scheme before it is too late. Even Catherine tries to stop Will, and he knows he should put the brakes on, the only problem is he has done the one thing he should have never allowed and fallen deep for Eric.
I thoroughly recommend this book, especially if you’re into mafia / crime thrillers. Just put some mittens on your hands before you start reading, you might just come out at the end with your fingernails Intact.
It is a very suspenseful thrilling romance. There are so many elements to plot, revenge, obsession, violence, deception, loyalty, love, admiration to name a few.
Eric one of the local mafia families Don, has been stuck in a loveless marriage with the former Don’s daughter. Out of loyalty to her father and as a cover for his true sexuality, he stays with his wife. And is a regular visitor to the local brothel. His closest friend and righthand man, has paid for Eric to spend the night with a new whore Will.
Will has ambitions of becoming a published author, but currently works at a local newspaper at the bottom of the ladder. To springboard his career, he has promised his editor that he can gain information against Eric. And, by doing so seek revenge for his close friend Catharine the Madam at the brothel.
Things soon spiral out of control, Eric becomes obsessed with Will, Will tries to deny that he is falling for Eric, and even keeps what little Evidence Eric lets slip, from his editor.
A spiraling chain of events leads us onto an ever-dangerous path of collision. Beatings, Threats and Deaths, a vengeful wife and a shootout with a rival gang are left in the aftermath. After all the violence and lies can the two men from two different backgrounds find happiness or even learn to trust one another.
I loved both characters, they fitted like a hand to a glove, The grizzly Mafia Don and the cute delicate twink whore. The romance is there from the start in little subtleties. But the intense suspense is nail biting all the way to the very end of the book. I heard myself shouting at Will to get out of his scheme before it is too late. Even Catherine tries to stop Will, and he knows he should put the brakes on, the only problem is he has done the one thing he should have never allowed and fallen deep for Eric.
I thoroughly recommend this book, especially if you’re into mafia / crime thrillers. Just put some mittens on your hands before you start reading, you might just come out at the end with your fingernails Intact.
August 28, 2019
Woohoo, there is a lot going on here. A lot of things not being what they seem, and a lot of people doing things for the wrong and sometimes right reasons even if they are wrong. It sounds a bit crazy, and it is, but it is an exciting ride that grabbed my interest and kept me turning pages. What starts out as an undercover job to take down the big bad guy quickly turns messy when feelings get in the way, not to mention the actual sexual chemistry every time these two meet.
Eric is the mafia don who is miserable in his marriage but has to keep up the front due to his status. The danger is too high if anyone finds out he prefers men. So he limits himself to visits to the high-end secretive whorehouse. What he doesn’t count on is being completely captivated by Will. Likewise, it is easy for Will to get into the role when the chemistry is off the charts and Eric shows a different side than what Will was expecting. Puts him in quite a pickle when feelings get in the way of his main goal to the point that he is getting pulled pretty harshly in different directions. Plans change as Will now believes he will survive Eric’s wrath once he finds out his true identity if he is already in love with him.
This was a fast-paced story that had a lot of twists and turns. I really want to see more of these guys and hope this is expanded further to other characters. It is my first time reading this author, and I really liked the dark gritty storytelling. Not too much fluff here, which is just up my alley. I’ll definitely be keeping Ms. Bauer on my radar in the future.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
August 11, 2019
Broken News by Sara Dobie Bauer
3.5 stars
M/M Dark Romance
Triggers: Attempted rape, beating, murder, cheating
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Eric West is someone who people know. And, while it's not necessarily good that he is known, it does help keep him alive. When he returns from another trip, he visits his usual spot, but his good friend has already secured his entertainment.
Walking in to the room, Eric meets Will. Both are instantly attracted to each other and because Will is a prostitute, there is little talking. However, over the course of a few days, both Will and Eric find themselves seeing each other exclusively at the club. In the past, this was unheard of for Eric, but he can't help but find Will distracting.
When outside forces come to jeopardize Will's safety, Eric will stop at nothing to defend him. Eric has to come to understand why his ideas of what he might deserve in life have changed and with those changes, accept the consequences of choices already made. And, if Will really is worth all of the trouble, can Eric and Will figure out a way through their differences?
This story had a lot of potential for me. I really enjoyed watching everything unfold. However, it also felt slightly disjointed when it came to Eric's feelings and motivations. Will and Eric's chemistry wasn't fantastic. It felt almost more like a friendship that was forced into a relationship - and that might just be given their professions, I'm not truly sure. Overall, it was a quick story that had a lot of action. But, the romance just wasn't really a great one for me.
3.5 stars
M/M Dark Romance
Triggers: Attempted rape, beating, murder, cheating
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Eric West is someone who people know. And, while it's not necessarily good that he is known, it does help keep him alive. When he returns from another trip, he visits his usual spot, but his good friend has already secured his entertainment.
Walking in to the room, Eric meets Will. Both are instantly attracted to each other and because Will is a prostitute, there is little talking. However, over the course of a few days, both Will and Eric find themselves seeing each other exclusively at the club. In the past, this was unheard of for Eric, but he can't help but find Will distracting.
When outside forces come to jeopardize Will's safety, Eric will stop at nothing to defend him. Eric has to come to understand why his ideas of what he might deserve in life have changed and with those changes, accept the consequences of choices already made. And, if Will really is worth all of the trouble, can Eric and Will figure out a way through their differences?
This story had a lot of potential for me. I really enjoyed watching everything unfold. However, it also felt slightly disjointed when it came to Eric's feelings and motivations. Will and Eric's chemistry wasn't fantastic. It felt almost more like a friendship that was forced into a relationship - and that might just be given their professions, I'm not truly sure. Overall, it was a quick story that had a lot of action. But, the romance just wasn't really a great one for me.
August 13, 2019
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I don't usually read this genre of book but the blurb grabbed my attention so I gave it a go and I am glad I did. This book had me biting my nails and on the edge of my seat the whole time. I found myself wanting to get back to the book and not do other things, like working. The sex was insanely hot, there was action galore and lots of twists and turns. This book is not for the faint of heart, you need to read the trigger warnings but if those don't bother you, then I suggest you give this book a try. Will and Eric will take you on a ride to remember.
I don't usually read this genre of book but the blurb grabbed my attention so I gave it a go and I am glad I did. This book had me biting my nails and on the edge of my seat the whole time. I found myself wanting to get back to the book and not do other things, like working. The sex was insanely hot, there was action galore and lots of twists and turns. This book is not for the faint of heart, you need to read the trigger warnings but if those don't bother you, then I suggest you give this book a try. Will and Eric will take you on a ride to remember.
August 22, 2019
Will lived on the streets and did what he had to do to survive. He is an undercover reporter determined to get the dirt on mafia don Eric West. Eric is closeted and a mafia don who is unhappy with his life. He receives a whore for a gift for one night. Will is posing as a prostitute to get close to Eric. The problem is he may end up falling for Eric. Eric is already obsessed with Will and will do anything to keep him, even murder. This is a good read with plenty of hot sex, suspense and murder.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving a review.
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