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One look. One glance. That is all it took for Aidan to claim her. She is innocence and purity rolled into one seductive package. He’s the beast that owns the underbelly of Belfast. But he’d make her his, even if it meant destroying himself for her.

Fiona can’t believe the man that is demanding her attention. Watching her every move. Sure, she’s pretty, but she’s no beauty. She’s content living a quiet life away from the spotlight.

When evil threatens to come after Fiona, Aidan will call in all his favors to protect her. Because what is a beast without his beauty.

This is the start of a new dark mafia romance series written by award-winning author E.M. Shue

206 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 20, 2021

12 people are currently reading
146 people want to read

About the author

E.M. Shue

105 books1,495 followers
E.M. Shue is an Alaskan award-winning romance author. She writes in many different sub-genres but always features badass heroines in gritty situations. As the mother to three grown daughters and two granddaughters she wants readers to be able to see that tough girls can have happy endings too. She is married to the love of her life of over twenty years who she married within months of starting to date, instalove is real.

She published her first book in 2017 after having a dream that later became the Beverley Award winning, Sniper’s Kiss. Since her debut, she has gone on to win this award three more times with different books and has published over forty titles.

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5 stars
48 (57%)
4 stars
18 (21%)
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9 (10%)
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5 (6%)
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3 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Dora Koutsoukou .
2,282 reviews731 followers
January 27, 2023
2,5 🤔🤔⭐️s

The execution had flaws.
There were too many side characters along with their backstories I had no idea about, I am not sure I figured them out till the end.
There were some cliches, such as the possessive and overprotective hero, the innocent virgin heroine. They exchanged I-love-yous very early which were not properly supported.
I don’t think I will continue with this series...
Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
2,137 reviews192 followers
September 7, 2023
This is the first book I have read by E.M. Shue and I will definitely be looking forward to reading more by her. A Seductive Beauty was captivating, grabbing me from the opening prologue thoroughly and not letting go until the end. I enjoyed how this story was infused with Irish lilt and inflection, right down to the swear words.
At times Fiona was frustratingly naïve, but I think that was the author's intent, to keep us thinking she was not as worldly has her cousin Kayla. Aidan, on the other hand, is very worldly, and knows that having Fiona in his life will cause her so much pain and anguish. And he tries very hard to push her away, but his attempt is futile, and unattainable.
Great mixture of chaos and calamity, along with romantic and tenderness times.
Enjoyable story! 💗
Profile Image for JenMcJ.
2,654 reviews324 followers
July 26, 2021
This was OK. The writing style is too basic for me. The author describes things in too great a detail, very much but not quite as bad as Kristen Ashley, but close with less finesse. This book is insta-obsession that I didn't buy into or find sexy like I should have. Aiden and Fiona spend zero time getting to know each other and the obvious signs of a problem are ignored by both Aiden and Fiona who too often is TSTL. Mob boss badassery seems diluted when the bad guy is called "Sir" as his only name. There were a number of other WTF moments, like letting Patrick just walk away from assaulting Fiona, time and time again. Finally, the book makes a big deal of Fiona being a workout junky, kickboxer type (which does not fit her personality, at all) but every time she is an a physical altercation, she just collapses like a soufflé.

Apparently this new series touches back to a previous series so if you haven't read the Securities series, like me, you may find yourself as disengaged by the people brought into help and the seemingly concurrent plot going on with Kayla and Wesley.

Some of the word choices turned me off. Aiden refers to Fiona's breasts as "knockers", often and exclusively which seemed really, really juvenile for a grown mob boss. I think even Fiona might have referred to them that way, too. His exclusive use of the word "c*nt" during sex was awkward and weird to me as well. I'm not against that word at all but in this case, for some reason, it didn't work for me and I noticed it all the time.

Plotting was slow and convoluted, especially at the end. I have no real interest in picking up the next book in the series when it comes out.
Profile Image for Mari (Mystics & Metaphysics Book Blog).
7,751 reviews169 followers
July 20, 2021
This is the start to a brand new series from this author but I love that it does have crossovers from her Securities International Series, specifically from Mikayla's story. We have Fiona and Aidan and boy is Aidan fire. I could feel his power coming off the pages. However, some of the events felt as though they were just being relayed and not actually being lived. I would have loved to have more interactions instead of explanations. But there is action and suspense and a threat that has Aidan finally claiming Fiona for himself. It's dark and sexy. Now I need the rest of the books.

Merged review:

This is the start to a brand new series from this author but I love that it does have crossovers from her Securities International Series, specifically from Mikayla's story. We have Fiona and Aidan and boy is Aidan fire. I could feel his power coming off the pages. However, some of the events felt as though they were just being relayed and not actually being lived. I would have loved to have more interactions instead of explanations. But there is action and suspense and a threat that has Aidan finally claiming Fiona for himself. It's dark and sexy. Now I need the rest of the books.
514 reviews15 followers
July 6, 2022
This book is the first in a new series. It is about Aiden, the Beast of Belfast, and Fiona, a Pastry Chef. Once they see each other it is instant sparks and connection. There is some push and pull on his end. Aiden is also trying to keep her safe anyway he can. This book has romance and suspense. It leaves you wanting more. There is a plot that is not completed so it must carry on with the other books. I want Moira and Giselle’s books.

Merged review:

This book is the first in a new series. It is about Aiden, the Beast of Belfast, and Fiona, a Pastry Chef. Once they see each other it is instant sparks and connection. There is some push and pull on his end. Aiden is also trying to keep her safe anyway he can. This book has romance and suspense. It leaves you wanting more. There is a plot that is not completed so it must carry on with the other books. I want Moira and Giselle’s books.
Profile Image for Amanda M.
2,922 reviews16 followers
July 20, 2021
This new series takes off from the first page, pulling you in and keeping you on the edge of your seat. It's an excellent story that's well written. Its action packed, suspense filled with twists and turns. There's also some revelations that come forth that you won't see coming till they happen. This book took me by surprise with how everything turned out and it was more than I could've expected. Loved reading it. It's a must read. It doesn't disappoint.

Merged review:

This new series takes off from the first page, pulling you in and keeping you on the edge of your seat. It's an excellent story that's well written. Its action packed, suspense filled with twists and turns. There's also some revelations that come forth that you won't see coming till they happen. This book took me by surprise with how everything turned out and it was more than I could've expected. Loved reading it. It's a must read. It doesn't disappoint.
Profile Image for Heather  Chaotic Creatives.
1,139 reviews52 followers
July 19, 2021
OK! You need this book in your life now! Wow! This book has it all. You get 1 broody hero with a dark and twisted side to him, you get a sassy innocent hero who has no idea just how beautiful she really is, and you get one hell of a story that is bound to take you on a roller coaster ride!
Aidan is a man who takes what he wants and when he lays eyes on Fiona he wants her! I am trying to figure out what to say in this review about these characters without spoiling it for anyone. Aidan is hot, he is formidable, and he is MINE! Fiona is a beautiful young lady whose family has well let's just say her family doesn't deserve the caring young woman she is. When her life is targeted Aidan makes the decision to protect her at all cost!
This story is fast paced and well written. The characters are well written, and I can not wait to see what is in store for a few of them...
784 reviews
July 19, 2021
If I could give this more than 5 stars I would! I received this book in advance for a voluntary honest Review. I loved it! Aidan and Fiona are just perfect for each other. Aidan is head of the Irish mob and Fiona is a baker disowned by her family. When these two meet the connection is instant and the wheels of fate are put in to motion. Aidan tries to stay away from Fiona, she’s too good and pure, he won’t expose her to the danger of being with him. Soon that doesn’t matter anymore because she’s become a target anyway. The supporting characters are so good too, that I can’t wait for Brody and Moira’s story and Shane and Giselle’s story.
Profile Image for Erin.
3,537 reviews80 followers
July 20, 2021
Fast paced, thrilling story!

This story shoots out of the gate at 100 miles per hour and does not slow down one bit. It’s filled with action, suspense, drama, murder, mayhem and a whole hell of a lot of steamy moments. Aiden and Fiona’s story is a whirlwind of emotions (good and bad) and thrills that will keep you riveted to your seat unable to look away. There so many twists and turns throughout that you might not want to blink or you’ll miss them.

I loved the story and I loved the characters. I can’t wait to see which direction the author takes the story next.
Profile Image for Jaime Reynolds.
1,952 reviews23 followers
July 18, 2021
A must read, new series that will have you hooked from the first page. This author’s writing and story telling gets better and better with each release and this one does not disappoint. It has the romance, suspense, and a bit of darkness that sucks you in and makes you wish for more. Plus if you love Securities International then you want to read this. I’m anxiously waiting for the next book in this series. Highly recommend so make sure it’s on your tbr and one clicked upon release.
Profile Image for Teresa Juckett (Love Dark Reads) .
2,525 reviews44 followers
July 23, 2021
This is the first book in a new series for this author and I for one am here for more of her stories.
I've read several of this arthurs book's she's in fact one of my favorites who can spin a story of suspense, drama, military and love thrown into the mix. This book wasn't any different there was something of everything I couldn't get enough. I wanted it to keep going.
This is a fast read that will have you flipping pages just to see what happens on the next.
Profile Image for Lynn Stifle.
3,837 reviews68 followers
July 19, 2021
A Seductive Beauty is the first book in the Knight's of Purgatory Syndicate Series and Aidan and Fiona’s story. I was on the edge of my seat and couldn’t put it down. I simply loved Aidan, he was a man that knew what he wanted, and from the first moment he saw Fiona, he wanted to make her his. And, when Fiona is threatened he’s determined to keep her safe. A terrific read; it’s well written, with great characters, and filled with suspense, action, and romance. A definite must read.
Profile Image for Shannon Godwin.
3,060 reviews31 followers
July 19, 2021
So I don’t know how to say anything without ruining this book. The best way to describe it is…. It’s action packed, fast paced, twists & turns gripping & will have you on the edge of your seat! Great book and I’m ready for book 2!!
Profile Image for Tara.
230 reviews3 followers
January 8, 2023
Fiona is a baker who just wants to lead quiet life. She has been cut off from her snobbish parents. She is determined to make it on her own. Her cousin helps her along the way. When an accident occurs that injures Fiona’s cousin Mikayla she meets the elusive Aiden. He is enchanted with her immediately, but his lifestyle does not really allow for romantic attachments. Despite the odds Fiona and Aiden find a way.
There is a strange mystery running through out. Will Fiona and Aiden find a #HEA or will they be torn apart by their enemies??


Aiden is the epitome of alpha male. He rules his empire with authority and will not allow someone to come in a take it. When he meets Fiona he begins to doubt what he does. He can not walk away from the family business, but neither can he leave her. He finds that she is not meek or helpless. She is as determined as he is when she is passionate about something. Despite the dangers that will come she stands by his side and is ready and willing to help in any way she can.

Their romance is a live wire from the moment they meet. She is so drawn to him and he to her.

This book does leave off on a bit of a cliff hanger. There is another coming out soon that I am very much looking forward to. I couldn’t put this book down once I started. The characters are rich and layered. The good guys may not be the ones that see the world in shades of grey.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
July 24, 2021
Fiona is a sweet heroine who was disowned by her family because she wanted to bake, so bake she does & is happy with her life. Aidan is a businessman who's also the head of the Irish mafia, so his life is on the darker side of things. The moment these two come face to face, the chemistry is intense as the sparks are flying in all directions, and it only picks up more speed as they keep running into each other. The moment it ignites, a super hot kiss turns into Aidan ending it right after which really hurts Fiona's heart, but he's terrified that being with her would put a dangerous target on her back. Little does he know that she already has some big issues with another man who won't take no, so the twists are coming in hot from all of the above leaving me on the edge of my seat as everything comes to a head. I really loved this story but there was one HUGE issue for me, and that's the fact that the ending felt like it just stopped, not wrapped up (if that makes any sense) but that's just me. You can always decide for yourselves by hitting those one click buttons as I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.3k reviews258 followers
January 16, 2023
This is the first in a new series, and this is Aidan and Fiona’s journey. Aidan is elusive and powerful, and he rules his empire with an iron fist, while Fiona is sweet and innocent baker, who is content to live her quiet life. When one of Fiona’s cousins is hurt, she meets Aiden, which has him questioning his life choices. This story ends in a cliffhanger. This is a well written story which is dark, raw, gritty, intense, and intriguing, with family, mystery, danger, suspense, twists, romance, tension, and love, which leads to a riveting and addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Trudy  Lutz.
32 reviews3 followers
March 27, 2022
E.M. Shue definitely intrigues your interest in this first book of this series. Fiona is a sweet, innocent, and beautiful young woman trying to make her own way in the world away from her controlling parents. Aiden is a powerful man in the underworld and has his eyes set on Fiona. Will their passion pull them through trying times? Or will he want to control her just like her parents did? Loved the chemistry in this book and just from the main characters.
Profile Image for Mandy Reads Indie.
1,996 reviews91 followers
July 27, 2021
A SEDUCTIVE BEAUTY was the first book by this author for me. It was a quick read and held my interest for the whole book. But for me, at times, the dialogue felt broken or fake or even cliquish. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. It wasn’t bad by any means, just not authentic, I guess is what I am saying.

I also felt like I was missing out on a few back stories in some scenes. It wasn’t enough to lose my interest, but in fact, it was piqued. I am interested in knowing who some of these other characters are and how they came to play a role in this story.

I am eager to see what happens next with Aiden and Fiona. I also need to know if a few relationships may come to be and if they will get their own stories or not. Since this author is new to me, it will be interesting in how the next book goes. 4 Stars!
Profile Image for Jennifer Soppe.
2,251 reviews13 followers
July 21, 2021
Takes the reader into the not so legal side

Fiona, a baker, sets eyes on Aidan, a business owner and head of the Irish Mob, at the hospital when her cousin is injured during a race at is racetrack. As the story progresses their connection sizzles, harsh words cause it to fizzle, and determining the direction to fix is hard to do when interference drizzles. E.M. Shue takes the reader into the not so legal side of her Securities International world in A Seductive Beauty. Plenty of the characters from that world make an appearance but a large amount of new characters come on to the scene for readers to enjoy.

I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
Profile Image for Lynne Garlick.
2,499 reviews27 followers
July 24, 2021
Oh. My!!

Oh. My! What a read!! A new series by this author and good God I was in the edge of my seat all the way through!
The minute Aiden sets eyes on Fiona, he knows he has found his beauty to his beast! Aiden is the head of the Irish mob and his enemies will not hesitate to try and bring him down. When Fiona is targeted, he will bury anyone who dares to touch her.
Sweet lord!! I cannot wait for more from this series!!
Profile Image for Kelly Simpson.
615 reviews17 followers
August 12, 2021
I loved it! Loved the dark romance and suspense. The author knows how to write to keep you on your toes till the very end.
Profile Image for Kelly Junior.
156 reviews2 followers
May 12, 2022
hot 🔥

What can I say but the breast of Belfast was a great read and intriguing. I look forward to reading the rest.

I can't wait for the next installment.
Profile Image for Julie Jackson.
2,320 reviews10 followers
January 22, 2023
Review for SNS.

This book is an insta love and it gets hot.
Aidan and Fiona have the chemistry it will she trust him. Great read.
Profile Image for Spunky N Sassy.
5,418 reviews119 followers
January 23, 2023
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0

~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

This book is an insta love and it gets hot.
Aidan and Fiona have the chemistry it will she trust him. Great read.
42 reviews
October 11, 2025
ok

They think and talk like they are really young. The H becomes infatuated with the h for no reason. Just didn’t feel very deep
Profile Image for Amanda Rodriguez.
218 reviews
July 23, 2021
Oh so worth it!!!

Oh my…if you are looking for a book that is steamy, hot, and very suspenseful then you need to read A Seductive Beauty. Such an outstanding storyline with just the right amount of suspense. I highly recommend this book and every other book by E.M. Shue!!!!!!
2,653 reviews8 followers
July 20, 2021
The new Sir is back with more danger, threats, a stalker, lies, misunderstanding, and betrayal.

Fiona went to culinary school in London and got her culinary arts degree. She works at a baker and loves it. Her parents disowned her at seventeen because she wanted to be a baker instead of marrying for money. Her cousin Mikayla helped her get into Le Cordon Bleu.

Aidan is the head of the Irish Mafia. His father built the family and businesses but Aiden has turned them into a multi-million dollar company. He has a motorcycle club called Knights of Purgatory, and his brother Brody is the president.

I was captivated from the first page to the very last and read it within a few hours.

Merged review:

The new Sir is back with more danger, threats, a stalker, lies, misunderstanding, and betrayal.

Fiona went to culinary school in London and got her culinary arts degree. She works at a baker and loves it. Her parents disowned her at seventeen because she wanted to be a baker instead of marrying for money. Her cousin Mikayla helped her get into Le Cordon Bleu.

Aidan is the head of the Irish Mafia. His father built the family and businesses but Aiden has turned them into a multi-million dollar company. He has a motorcycle club called Knights of Purgatory, and his brother Brody is the president.

I was captivated from the first page to the very last and read it within a few hours.
1,397 reviews9 followers
July 21, 2021
I absolutely adored this story. I love mafia romances and this one had me reading until the wee hours of the morning. I really liked the characters of Fiona and Aiden. Aiden was a mafia boss who wasn't as bad as others because he was trying to turn his business legal. Fiona was an innocent baker who was not part of that life. They felt an immediate attraction to each other but Aiden tried to stay away from Fiona because he didn't want to bring her into his dark world. The small interactions they had together let his enemies know that he cared for her though. She started getting ominous letters and was trying not to let it scare her. But of course plans don't always go as planned for either of them and Fiona gets taken against her will. This story was exciting and I was anticipating what would happen the whole story. I was eager to figure out who was leaving the letters and was surprised at the ending of the story. I liked Aiden's brothers as well and hope to read about their stories in the future. This was a wonderful read that I would definitely recommend. I received a review copy of this story from the author and am leaving a voluntary honest review.
Profile Image for Rosa Dunahue.
1,353 reviews25 followers
July 20, 2021
A Seductive Beauty is the first book in the new mafia series by E. M. Shue. And what a wonderful start it is. This is Aidan and Fiona story. Aidan is the head of mafia and Fiona is the disowned cousin of Kayla. Kayla has a bad wreck and that how Aidan and Fiona meets. Aidan falls in love with Fiona at first sight. And Fiona feels the same but Aidan doesn’t want to bring Fiona to his dark world. But now it too late and Fiona is deep in his world and their journey together to HEA is deadly and blood but it is hot and steamy.

A Seductive Beauty has strong characters. E. M. Shue has does a incredible job with the flow of the storyline. I love how Aidan would protect Fiona no matter what and then we learn that his brothers are falling her friends. I can’t wait for their stories. A Seductive Beauty is definitely 5 stars if not more.
Profile Image for Sandy.
1,214 reviews4 followers
July 20, 2021
Sleek and steamy! There is a bit of push pull from the H. Aiden has a dangerous life, but then so does it seem Fiona has one as well? There’s a lot going on in the story. This is the first book in a new series, and we meet lots of characters. Lots of action and suspense. Very possessive H. HEA.


Merged review:

Sleek and steamy! There is a bit of push pull from the H. Aiden has a dangerous life, but then so does it seem Fiona has one as well? There’s a lot going on in the story. This is the first book in a new series, and we meet lots of characters. Lots of action and suspense. Very possessive H. HEA.
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