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Broken Chains
If only she had stuck to singing in bars.
If only the idea of wanting to become an author had never entered her mind.
If only she'd never met Alex.
That one meeting had caused an avalanche of fate to clash with a dangerous destiny that forced Liz Finely to become the most wanted woman in the world. Stalked by three deadly mafia bosses, Liz has to learn to survive. Passed from one brutal hand to another, tortured, and abused, it's her blood, her name, which lands her in trouble each time.
Now it's up to Liz to find the strength to accept and become who she's meant to be, and finally, break the chains that bind her.
This novel is a dark mafia romance for 18+ due to the graphic sex and violence
If only the idea of wanting to become an author had never entered her mind.
If only she'd never met Alex.
That one meeting had caused an avalanche of fate to clash with a dangerous destiny that forced Liz Finely to become the most wanted woman in the world. Stalked by three deadly mafia bosses, Liz has to learn to survive. Passed from one brutal hand to another, tortured, and abused, it's her blood, her name, which lands her in trouble each time.
Now it's up to Liz to find the strength to accept and become who she's meant to be, and finally, break the chains that bind her.
This novel is a dark mafia romance for 18+ due to the graphic sex and violence
250 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2021
20 people want to read
About the author
Karina Kantas
25 books812 followersKarina Kantas originates from the UK but has lived in Greece most of her life.
Karina is a prolific author and publishes in the fiction genres of MC thrillers, fantasy, horror, comedy, romance, erotica, dystopian and thriller, dark romance, and mafia thrillers.
She writes thought-provoking/dark flash fiction when her imagination is working overtime.
Karina is the host of Behind The Pen TV show, which streams on platforms that cover over 100.000.000 homes.
She has her own radio show, Author Assist, on the Artist First Radio Network. She is a bookTuber, podcaster, and award-winning filmmaker.
Karina Kantas also runs Author Assist, which offers coaching, mentoring and exclusive packages to writers and publishers.
**coming soon**
IN TIMES OF VIOLENCE ADULT EDITION
Titles to date:
The OUTLAW series
In Times of Violence Urban thriller YA
Huntress Dark MC romance
Lawless Justice Vigilante MC thriller
Road Rage Dark MC Romance
Collections:
Heads & Tales Flash and short fiction.
Undressed Flash, poetry, prose
A Flash of Horror Flash fiction
Stone Cold YA horror
Toxic Dystopian sci-fi erotica
Broken Chains Dark mafia romance
Illusional Realityduology
Book 1 Illusional Reality YA fantasy/ PNR
Book 2 The Quest supernatural fantasy
Audiobooks
Stone Cold YA Horror
Illusional Reality YA fantasy PNR
Karina is a prolific author and publishes in the fiction genres of MC thrillers, fantasy, horror, comedy, romance, erotica, dystopian and thriller, dark romance, and mafia thrillers.
She writes thought-provoking/dark flash fiction when her imagination is working overtime.
Karina is the host of Behind The Pen TV show, which streams on platforms that cover over 100.000.000 homes.
She has her own radio show, Author Assist, on the Artist First Radio Network. She is a bookTuber, podcaster, and award-winning filmmaker.
Karina Kantas also runs Author Assist, which offers coaching, mentoring and exclusive packages to writers and publishers.
**coming soon**
IN TIMES OF VIOLENCE ADULT EDITION
Titles to date:
The OUTLAW series
In Times of Violence Urban thriller YA
Huntress Dark MC romance
Lawless Justice Vigilante MC thriller
Road Rage Dark MC Romance
Collections:
Heads & Tales Flash and short fiction.
Undressed Flash, poetry, prose
A Flash of Horror Flash fiction
Stone Cold YA horror
Toxic Dystopian sci-fi erotica
Broken Chains Dark mafia romance
Illusional Realityduology
Book 1 Illusional Reality YA fantasy/ PNR
Book 2 The Quest supernatural fantasy
Audiobooks
Stone Cold YA Horror
Illusional Reality YA fantasy PNR
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 21, 2021
3 Stars
When I read the blurb for this book I didn’t hesitate to grab a copy to dive into. It teased me with all the ingredients I look for in a dark romance. As dark romance is one of my favourite (sub) genres to read I am always on the look-out for more, and I have devoured more than my fair share of them. So, I was excited to find a new (to me) author to add to my collection. Not having read any of her work before, I wasn’t sure what to expect from one of her stories, but like I said, the story held the promise of being dark and delicious, so I lept into the story.
While I did like the story, I will be honest and say that unfortunately it didn’t live up to my expectations and didn’t quite deliver on the promise held in the synopsis, either, for me.
The beginning was slow to get going and then later when the pace did pick up, there were parts that still lagged/dragged. Then there were parts where the writing felt choppy or stilted, and some of the transitions from scene to scene, or character POV’s were quite abrupt. Again, this is just how I felt while reading it. I seem to be an exception to the rule, as I notice most other reader reviews for this story are quite glowing. But for me there were a few too many issues that pulled me out of the story and, quite frankly, left me a little disappointed. But maybe it is just me.
This is a dark romance with espionage, mafia, action, violence, brutality, dramatic moments, tension, and suspense. There are scenes that may trigger some readers, so be warned…
Happy reading!
When I read the blurb for this book I didn’t hesitate to grab a copy to dive into. It teased me with all the ingredients I look for in a dark romance. As dark romance is one of my favourite (sub) genres to read I am always on the look-out for more, and I have devoured more than my fair share of them. So, I was excited to find a new (to me) author to add to my collection. Not having read any of her work before, I wasn’t sure what to expect from one of her stories, but like I said, the story held the promise of being dark and delicious, so I lept into the story.
While I did like the story, I will be honest and say that unfortunately it didn’t live up to my expectations and didn’t quite deliver on the promise held in the synopsis, either, for me.
The beginning was slow to get going and then later when the pace did pick up, there were parts that still lagged/dragged. Then there were parts where the writing felt choppy or stilted, and some of the transitions from scene to scene, or character POV’s were quite abrupt. Again, this is just how I felt while reading it. I seem to be an exception to the rule, as I notice most other reader reviews for this story are quite glowing. But for me there were a few too many issues that pulled me out of the story and, quite frankly, left me a little disappointed. But maybe it is just me.
This is a dark romance with espionage, mafia, action, violence, brutality, dramatic moments, tension, and suspense. There are scenes that may trigger some readers, so be warned…
Happy reading!
November 14, 2021
In the opening pages of Broken Chains, we meet a young lady named Elizabeth Finley who is spying on MI5 headquarters. She’s a civilian wondering just how realistic the TV series Spooks is, the show renamed MI5 in the states. In short order, we meet an actual MI5 agent named Alex. He has been observing Liz before he recruits her into becoming a real operative for the spy organization.
Soon Liz is in the field on her first assignment-or so she thinks-before she’s abducted and endures a frightening and painful interrogation. At first, she thinks she’s in the hands of some unknown enemy until she learns she’s being tested by MI5 itself. And all this whirls by in just the first chapter. At the same time as all this is going on, we all get to wonder-is Alex more than a mentor to Liz? Will they or won’t they?
After that setup, few readers can anticipate what is coming in Kantas’s gritty and often hardcore tale of betrayal, brutal life inside three Mafia families, not to mention a very unexpected romance as Liz endures every physical torture imaginable. At the same time, she is forced to explore a very dark family heritage she knew nothing about.
I must admit, during the first chapters I thought I was reading a ‘60s-style spy novel featuring a spunky lady who becomes a master spy like an Alfred Hitchcock character. Then as every page in this fast-paced tale gets harsher and harsher, it became more and more evident Broken Chains is not for the faint-hearted or squeamish. That is, until the tone of the book changes again and we move into the few warm, positive later chapters. Temporarily. Liz has much to endure, over and over again.
My favorite part of it all is Kantas’s character development, primarily of Liz but also all the men who become part of her orbit as they all do their best to force her to bow to their respective wills. Liz is far more than a damsel in distress as we come to respect her, admire her, understand her, and get to explore the depths of who she is as a resilient, thoughtful, and caring human being. Through it all, I keep wondering just how effective MI5 can be as there’s no evidence they are doing anything on behalf of their young fledgling. For her part, as Liz is abducted over and over, her MI5 connections don’t seem to matter to her-those short months don’t remain an important memory in her life.
Again, this tale includes a lot of explicit material, both sexually and violently, especially the lengthy torture scenes. If that sort of material doesn’t turn you off, Broken Chains is a hot burner of a thriller that I found hard to put down.
This review first appeared at BookPleasures.com on Nov. 15, 2021:
https://waa.ai/qMQi
November 22, 2021
Broken Chains by Karina Kantas
3 Stars
Although not my favourite genre, I do enjoy dark mafia romances. Since I had never read a book by this author, I was excited to start reading. Unfortunately, it didn’t meet my expectations. Maybe I set the bar too high because the other dark mafia books were excellent. I don’t know, this book fell flat. The storyline was good but the characters lacked depth which prevented me from connecting to them. This is especially important with the main character. Though I felt bad for everything that she went through, that was the extent of it.
Things were inconsistent and didn’t make sense throughout the book. She joins MI5 as a spy, obviously MI5 would have done multiple background checks on her yet never found out who her parents were? Alex her mentor thought she was a spy before she became one because she was unemotional while being interrogated. She then becomes an emotional wreck trying to commit suicide after being tortured (which is understandable). She goes through worse torture and physical torment yet is mentally stable afterwards as if life is a bed of roses. Doesn’t make sense. I might be judging too harsh because obviously many people enjoyed the book. Warning: advised for 18 years and older, very graphic and violent and may be a trigger for certain readers.
3 Stars
Although not my favourite genre, I do enjoy dark mafia romances. Since I had never read a book by this author, I was excited to start reading. Unfortunately, it didn’t meet my expectations. Maybe I set the bar too high because the other dark mafia books were excellent. I don’t know, this book fell flat. The storyline was good but the characters lacked depth which prevented me from connecting to them. This is especially important with the main character. Though I felt bad for everything that she went through, that was the extent of it.
Things were inconsistent and didn’t make sense throughout the book. She joins MI5 as a spy, obviously MI5 would have done multiple background checks on her yet never found out who her parents were? Alex her mentor thought she was a spy before she became one because she was unemotional while being interrogated. She then becomes an emotional wreck trying to commit suicide after being tortured (which is understandable). She goes through worse torture and physical torment yet is mentally stable afterwards as if life is a bed of roses. Doesn’t make sense. I might be judging too harsh because obviously many people enjoyed the book. Warning: advised for 18 years and older, very graphic and violent and may be a trigger for certain readers.
November 28, 2021
Imagine wanting to write a book based loosely off a favorite show. Liz was watching a building, writing notes about people who were entering and exiting, making up stories about what they could be doing. She was aware that she was looking at MI5 headquarters, which was supposedly a location where her favorite crime series show filmed. Liz was incorrect, and little did she know that she was about to embark upon several life altering events in life.
MI5 was the headquarters of the Secret Services, and they pounced upon the writer. After reviewing files and her notes, supervising agent Alex takes special notice of Liz’s attention to details. He convinces her to go through training and become an agent. Liz’s first assignment leads her to Athens, and uniting with her estranged father. When she meets her father, she feels he is not being honest with her about details important to her case. After checking into a hotel, she learns that she is now on a hit list after Alex thwarts an assassination attempt on her life.
After recovering from injuries, Liz’s assignment is security detail at a banquet hall with Alex. The banquet is ambushed and Liz becomes separated from the main group. When she gains a view of the main area, she discovers her group is surrounded. Unsure of what to do, she suddenly hears a voice calling out her name to surrender. Liz knows the voice is sinister and belongs to someone she never thought would hurt her. What does Liz do, fight or surrender? This is a fast-paced 4 star novel that will keep you turning pages in discovery.
MI5 was the headquarters of the Secret Services, and they pounced upon the writer. After reviewing files and her notes, supervising agent Alex takes special notice of Liz’s attention to details. He convinces her to go through training and become an agent. Liz’s first assignment leads her to Athens, and uniting with her estranged father. When she meets her father, she feels he is not being honest with her about details important to her case. After checking into a hotel, she learns that she is now on a hit list after Alex thwarts an assassination attempt on her life.
After recovering from injuries, Liz’s assignment is security detail at a banquet hall with Alex. The banquet is ambushed and Liz becomes separated from the main group. When she gains a view of the main area, she discovers her group is surrounded. Unsure of what to do, she suddenly hears a voice calling out her name to surrender. Liz knows the voice is sinister and belongs to someone she never thought would hurt her. What does Liz do, fight or surrender? This is a fast-paced 4 star novel that will keep you turning pages in discovery.
November 26, 2021
I'm trying to think of the best word to describe this book...intense?? Intense and addicting for sure. I went into this knowing about the possible triggers and violent storyline. Right up my alley for sure. Some might think of a character such as Liz as weak and broken, but she is such a strong a resilient character in my eyes. This author definitely shines at character development and building a gripping world that the reader gets easily sucked into. This would have made a great series, as I'm a sucker for detailed long stories, but this quick read surely didn't lack any important aspects. I'd strongly suggest this author, as long as the reader knows what they are getting into and enjoys a good dark romance.
December 20, 2021
This is my very first book from the Author - Karina Kantas.
The book is based on the darkest plot I’ve ever come across so far! When I read the title of the book and saw the cover, I was instantly attracted to read it and it came out better than expected.
The book felt more like a thriller movie with lots of dark mafia romance.
The characters of Liz and Alex have been portrayed perfectly, they’re bold and go getters, the exact images of someone in a mafia gang.
Even though Liz is inclined towards such dark elements in life, she never really imagined she would actually live such a life, being the most wanted woman on the planet.
All in all, this was an unexplored genre for me and I’m so glad I picked this one up! Can’t wait to read more from the author.
The book is based on the darkest plot I’ve ever come across so far! When I read the title of the book and saw the cover, I was instantly attracted to read it and it came out better than expected.
The book felt more like a thriller movie with lots of dark mafia romance.
The characters of Liz and Alex have been portrayed perfectly, they’re bold and go getters, the exact images of someone in a mafia gang.
Even though Liz is inclined towards such dark elements in life, she never really imagined she would actually live such a life, being the most wanted woman on the planet.
All in all, this was an unexplored genre for me and I’m so glad I picked this one up! Can’t wait to read more from the author.
November 24, 2021
This is a new author for me and I don’t usually go for the dark mafia type books but I actually enjoyed this one! This book is definitely recommended for readers 18+.
I’m not going to say much about what happens as to not give anything away but talk about intense! This book has everything you could need. There is so much suspense I was on edge just waiting for what would happen next. Keep in mind it’s pretty dark and usually that’s not my thing but it’s a good read.
I enjoyed this authors writing style and the book definitely keeps you guessing. I’m glad I picked this one up!
I’m not going to say much about what happens as to not give anything away but talk about intense! This book has everything you could need. There is so much suspense I was on edge just waiting for what would happen next. Keep in mind it’s pretty dark and usually that’s not my thing but it’s a good read.
I enjoyed this authors writing style and the book definitely keeps you guessing. I’m glad I picked this one up!
November 28, 2021
This poor soul endured a lot. She made herself a spy in her government. Then got kidnapped by her father who turns out to be Mafia. While she is in his car he tortures. Then she gets kidnapped by rivals and tortured somewhere. Till they find out she’s been honest. Then she gets kidnapped by her arranged to be husband who tortures her even more for false allegations. It’s It’s good book that will have you on a roller coaster ride.
November 13, 2021
Wow just wow! This book literally had me hooked, this book was a intense read, but needless to say I enjoyed the heck out of it. It has its moments of twists and some what dark, but it was compelling naturally in its town way. Overall, it was a powerful story, and it was one that deeply impacted me! Well done!
I picked this book, knowing what it was about based upon the story and the summary. I was not expecting (or maybe I should have) the emotional feelings this book brought to light. It was more than i thought it would be, but deeply added to the story. I read on and realized why the author had set up things that way. Needless to say I was very impressed for this book and the story, yes as I have said was dark at times but yet it was as powerful as a lightening bolt, and a story that will stay with you, for a long time!
For me Liz, was an amazing character. Someone who literally has gone though Hell and and back over and over again, and just wants her ticket the heck out of there With the way her life style is, could that ever be a possibility for her. She goes through a lot in this novel, she has hopes and dreams like I believe any of us do, but can she actually achieve what she wants and feel the emotion of what is known as freedom? She was intense and powerful with her mind, and she was very resilient. I loved that. I enjoyed her story, and what she did and had to undergo to get to the end finale. This was a intense book, but also was so freaking good and addictive. I could not put it down! Seriously a gripping must read for sure!
*****FOR SOME READERS THRE IS SOME MOMENTS OF THIS NOVEL WHERE THERE IS INTENSE ABUSE. THERE IS SOME MOMENTS THAT AS MUCH AS THEY ADDED TO THE STORY SOME VIEWERS MIGHT FACE WELL TIGGERS OR BE UNCOMFORTABLE. SO SENDING MY HEADS UP AS A READER!******
This book was a great freaking read for me. i love a book that can keep me so addicted as well as filled with such intense emotion I can not even consider to put this one down. there are some of the moments that I do label as intense that some readers may not like, but for me they made the story what it was. Gripping, Intriguing, and real. Very REAL! I loved it and I will for sure be reading more from this author, that is a simple question with he answer of YES! I highly recommend this book, if your someone like me who loves a book with twists, and suspense moments full of emotion, you will enjoy it as much as me!
I picked this book, knowing what it was about based upon the story and the summary. I was not expecting (or maybe I should have) the emotional feelings this book brought to light. It was more than i thought it would be, but deeply added to the story. I read on and realized why the author had set up things that way. Needless to say I was very impressed for this book and the story, yes as I have said was dark at times but yet it was as powerful as a lightening bolt, and a story that will stay with you, for a long time!
For me Liz, was an amazing character. Someone who literally has gone though Hell and and back over and over again, and just wants her ticket the heck out of there With the way her life style is, could that ever be a possibility for her. She goes through a lot in this novel, she has hopes and dreams like I believe any of us do, but can she actually achieve what she wants and feel the emotion of what is known as freedom? She was intense and powerful with her mind, and she was very resilient. I loved that. I enjoyed her story, and what she did and had to undergo to get to the end finale. This was a intense book, but also was so freaking good and addictive. I could not put it down! Seriously a gripping must read for sure!
*****FOR SOME READERS THRE IS SOME MOMENTS OF THIS NOVEL WHERE THERE IS INTENSE ABUSE. THERE IS SOME MOMENTS THAT AS MUCH AS THEY ADDED TO THE STORY SOME VIEWERS MIGHT FACE WELL TIGGERS OR BE UNCOMFORTABLE. SO SENDING MY HEADS UP AS A READER!******
This book was a great freaking read for me. i love a book that can keep me so addicted as well as filled with such intense emotion I can not even consider to put this one down. there are some of the moments that I do label as intense that some readers may not like, but for me they made the story what it was. Gripping, Intriguing, and real. Very REAL! I loved it and I will for sure be reading more from this author, that is a simple question with he answer of YES! I highly recommend this book, if your someone like me who loves a book with twists, and suspense moments full of emotion, you will enjoy it as much as me!
November 22, 2021
This book is only for those over 18 due to the graphic nature of the content within.
Liz Finley was a lounge singer and she was good at it, with a steady job and a steady life, but something was missing, excitement, she needed something which would thrill her and so she decided to start writing a book, she was inspired by a tv series and wanted to see whether that life was really like how it was prortrayed there, so that is how she ended up in the café and how she ended up meeting with Alex. This was a meeting which would change her life forever and in more ways than one, it was a meeting which left her both excited and scared all at the same time and it was that meeting which put her on a path she did not expect.
Liz left her job and returned to education so that she could follow her new dream and the job which it was centred around, however, what she expects to happen doesn’t, it is far worse, but she perseveres and attains her goal, but this is where things really start to go downhill. Danger soon comes for Liz and she soon finds out is because of her name and the blood which runs in her veins, so when she falls into the hands of the mafia she is tortured and abused for information, but she has no idea what her destiny has had in store for her and how she now needs to learn to live with it and accept it, but before she can, another mafia boss takes matters into his own hands and she goes through the abuse and torture all over again.
All through this emotionally and physically taxing time, she uses her brain to try and keep her sanity alive as she puts the pieces together and realises that she is wanted by three different mafia bosses and although she cannot understand why, all she wants is for it to end. Will she be able to survive long enough for someone to come along and be her knight in shining armour and help her through the turmoil, or will the chains that are binding her to her destiny be too strong to break and allow her to become free once and for all? This is a dark mafia romance with twists and turns which are full of action and is a definite rollercoaster of emotions, which does not let up until the very end.
Liz Finley was a lounge singer and she was good at it, with a steady job and a steady life, but something was missing, excitement, she needed something which would thrill her and so she decided to start writing a book, she was inspired by a tv series and wanted to see whether that life was really like how it was prortrayed there, so that is how she ended up in the café and how she ended up meeting with Alex. This was a meeting which would change her life forever and in more ways than one, it was a meeting which left her both excited and scared all at the same time and it was that meeting which put her on a path she did not expect.
Liz left her job and returned to education so that she could follow her new dream and the job which it was centred around, however, what she expects to happen doesn’t, it is far worse, but she perseveres and attains her goal, but this is where things really start to go downhill. Danger soon comes for Liz and she soon finds out is because of her name and the blood which runs in her veins, so when she falls into the hands of the mafia she is tortured and abused for information, but she has no idea what her destiny has had in store for her and how she now needs to learn to live with it and accept it, but before she can, another mafia boss takes matters into his own hands and she goes through the abuse and torture all over again.
All through this emotionally and physically taxing time, she uses her brain to try and keep her sanity alive as she puts the pieces together and realises that she is wanted by three different mafia bosses and although she cannot understand why, all she wants is for it to end. Will she be able to survive long enough for someone to come along and be her knight in shining armour and help her through the turmoil, or will the chains that are binding her to her destiny be too strong to break and allow her to become free once and for all? This is a dark mafia romance with twists and turns which are full of action and is a definite rollercoaster of emotions, which does not let up until the very end.
December 5, 2022
Life was boring, monotonous, and ultimately lonely for Elizabeth Finley. So when she finds her life can become more dynamic and fun after one massively failed stakeout outside the headquarters of the largest secret service in the UK, the MI5, Liz is confident a career change was much needed. Now she wouldn’t have to worry about keeping publishers or writing a sensational book. Life was beginning to have a flavor for Liz. Or so she thought. As she begins her unforeseeable job as a secret agent, betrayal, bondage, and chaos are about to become the new order in Liz’s life. Will she be able to handle the unexpected turn in events, or will the mountain of trouble she’s about to face be too great for her to overcome?
Broken Chains by Karina Kantas tells the story of an aspiring writer, Elizabeth Finley, who’s had it hard with life. Losing her mother at a very tender age and having her father disappear right after meant Liz was left with no other choice but to fend for herself. However, instead of getting better, her life transforms from bad to worse when she begins working undercover for the MI5. However, the rigorous mind-blowing training she would be subjected to at the MI5 will be nothing compared to the hell she will face after she receives a coded email that only she could decipher.
Karina Kantas has done a great job creating a unique storyline filled with twists and suspense. The extreme depiction of the reality of the underworld was incredibly mind-blowing, and the story had me on edge from the turn of the first page. However, I found the book a little rushed. The loopholes in the story made some of the characters’ emotions too intense and sometimes confusing. But the Eccentricity of this book kept me on my toes.
Broken chains by Karina Kantas is a thrilling crime romance filled with suspense and action. With crime rings, kidnapping and abuse, readers will never be at a loss for action. The novel has graphic and mature scenes, so it is intended for a mature audience.
Broken Chains by Karina Kantas tells the story of an aspiring writer, Elizabeth Finley, who’s had it hard with life. Losing her mother at a very tender age and having her father disappear right after meant Liz was left with no other choice but to fend for herself. However, instead of getting better, her life transforms from bad to worse when she begins working undercover for the MI5. However, the rigorous mind-blowing training she would be subjected to at the MI5 will be nothing compared to the hell she will face after she receives a coded email that only she could decipher.
Karina Kantas has done a great job creating a unique storyline filled with twists and suspense. The extreme depiction of the reality of the underworld was incredibly mind-blowing, and the story had me on edge from the turn of the first page. However, I found the book a little rushed. The loopholes in the story made some of the characters’ emotions too intense and sometimes confusing. But the Eccentricity of this book kept me on my toes.
Broken chains by Karina Kantas is a thrilling crime romance filled with suspense and action. With crime rings, kidnapping and abuse, readers will never be at a loss for action. The novel has graphic and mature scenes, so it is intended for a mature audience.
November 24, 2021
Broken Chains was such an intense, nail biting ride to the finish. I would definitely include some trigger warnings as this is not a book for anyone who has issues with rape, abuse in a few different forms, and death, nor would it be a good book for anyone under the age of 18. In the beginning you are introduced to a girl named “Liz” or Elizabeth. She is enthralled by the CIA, M15, the FBI, and what it takes to become an agent. She really wants to know is it really like the tv shows say it is ? So she starts to stake out the M15 headquarters for research on a book she is hoping to write. So she stages some things to see how much attention they really pay to their surroundings. Things really start to become real when she is kidnapped by M15 and gets to experience interrogation first hand. After being let go and returning home she is visited by an agent who, of course they already know everything about her, prods her to join M15 as an agent. Given her solitary lifestyle and skill set he thinks she would be great. That’s when everything spirals out of control for Liz. I had a hard time with the first half of the book, almost up to the point she meets Marco, and then there is that “insta love” to contend with, but once I did the book really began to smooth out and I just could not stop reading! At first I felt confused and a little jerked back and forth then slapped in the face and pulled out of the story. The author seemed to want to portray Liz as this strong, independent woman but I didn’t get the “independent” vibe from her except at the beginning. She was absolutely a strong woman or she would not have been able to endure the things she went through. I was absolutely rooting for her! Overall this was a great book! I truly enjoyed reading it, I did finish it in a day and a half lol. This is my first book by this author and I would absolutely like to read more from her.
November 24, 2021
WTH did I just read?! How can a single book make you feel all the feels and leave you reeling like that?! 4.5 Rounded up
I didn’t know where to start with this review, so I’m breaking it down as follows:
The good:
- Strong female MC. How much crap can one person go through and still be okay?! Liz’s character is thrown curveball after curveball, and still is willing to get up and fight the fight, and when she’s not, she has people around her who help build her back up.
- Mafia espionage. There’s so much political angst, from governmental agencies, both secret and “aboveboard” are touched on here, as well as mafia (in)fighting. There’s the Italian, Russian, and Greek mafia galore here. Who is fighting whom?
The “eh”:
- The romance aspect. I am reluctant to call this a romance novel. I would call this a mafia thriller with some romance thrown in. Even then, I personally didn’t feel the “romance” between Marco and Liz. Sure there’s sexual tension, but I didn’t fall for the couple.
- Everyone wants Liz. We get it, she’s the FMC, but no single person is wanted, politically or desired, the amount that she is. Everyone just seems to yearn for her in some way.
While there is a decent amount of “eh” to this novel, I still am going with my 4.5 star rating. This book will stick with me, even among the numerous dark romances that I enjoy. Something about this book is so different that it stands out.
Content warning: graphic depiction of sēxual assault, r@pe, violence against women, su!cide, violent death, gun violence.
I didn’t know where to start with this review, so I’m breaking it down as follows:
The good:
- Strong female MC. How much crap can one person go through and still be okay?! Liz’s character is thrown curveball after curveball, and still is willing to get up and fight the fight, and when she’s not, she has people around her who help build her back up.
- Mafia espionage. There’s so much political angst, from governmental agencies, both secret and “aboveboard” are touched on here, as well as mafia (in)fighting. There’s the Italian, Russian, and Greek mafia galore here. Who is fighting whom?
The “eh”:
- The romance aspect. I am reluctant to call this a romance novel. I would call this a mafia thriller with some romance thrown in. Even then, I personally didn’t feel the “romance” between Marco and Liz. Sure there’s sexual tension, but I didn’t fall for the couple.
- Everyone wants Liz. We get it, she’s the FMC, but no single person is wanted, politically or desired, the amount that she is. Everyone just seems to yearn for her in some way.
While there is a decent amount of “eh” to this novel, I still am going with my 4.5 star rating. This book will stick with me, even among the numerous dark romances that I enjoy. Something about this book is so different that it stands out.
Content warning: graphic depiction of sēxual assault, r@pe, violence against women, su!cide, violent death, gun violence.
December 12, 2021
The story revolves around Liz Finley who had a dream to be a secret agent, Who spent all of her time to watch Tv which is full of crimes, spooks and Bill.
Finally her dream come true when she met woth Alex who trusted her that She can be a part of M15, the secret service. She has been trained very well and respected in the team also.
She got her first work to be done which is seems easy. but she found herself caged in a wooden chair in a small room. she has been caught and tortured to her death. She is totally traumatized by the sexual abuse,the taser shock, suffocated in closed room for days. Even if she got released blfrom the monsters but her nightmares never left her. The feeling of suffocation is always there in her mind. She has been played more and more by more dangerous people.
Now she has became a most wanted lady every end of earth.
Will she survive herself from the torture?
Who is Alex?
The book is a mix of everything. Erotic, violence is passing through every core of the book, Thrilling. The scenes were written so raw that it gives chill to the spine. Mysterious incidents, secrets, betrayal, Blood, violence, sensitive, Emotional made the book a worth read.
I have read one more book of Karina which is Toxic. I loved it and this one not less than the previous one. The emotion, the raw characterization, the scenes everything is well Portrayed.
Finally her dream come true when she met woth Alex who trusted her that She can be a part of M15, the secret service. She has been trained very well and respected in the team also.
She got her first work to be done which is seems easy. but she found herself caged in a wooden chair in a small room. she has been caught and tortured to her death. She is totally traumatized by the sexual abuse,the taser shock, suffocated in closed room for days. Even if she got released blfrom the monsters but her nightmares never left her. The feeling of suffocation is always there in her mind. She has been played more and more by more dangerous people.
Now she has became a most wanted lady every end of earth.
Will she survive herself from the torture?
Who is Alex?
The book is a mix of everything. Erotic, violence is passing through every core of the book, Thrilling. The scenes were written so raw that it gives chill to the spine. Mysterious incidents, secrets, betrayal, Blood, violence, sensitive, Emotional made the book a worth read.
I have read one more book of Karina which is Toxic. I loved it and this one not less than the previous one. The emotion, the raw characterization, the scenes everything is well Portrayed.
November 23, 2021
This book is a brilliant dark mafia romance. It is definitely for over 18’s and can be a trigger for some due to the graphic violence and non-consensual sex scenes. I had never previously read any of this author’s work but I do love a good dark mafia romance and was very intrigued by the blurb of this book so decided to give it a try. I’m very glad that I took the chance on this book because I really loved it.
Elizabeth (Liz) certainly has a load to deal with. It’s not every person that has 3 mafia bosses all after them, yet that’s what Liz is dealing with. This book is not for the faint hearted or anyone who is squeamish. There is a great deal of very brutal violence dealt out, most of it to Liz and she is the recipient of a great deal of non-consensual sex. If you can handle the violence, there is a fantastic storyline that goes along with it.
As well as the non-consensual sex, there are some very steamy consensual sex scenes that get the pulse racing.
I was really gripped to this story from the very beginning. The story is fast paced and takes you on an emotional journey with much danger, violence and intrigue along the way.
Definitely worth 5 stars and would recommend to those with a stronger stomach.
Elizabeth (Liz) certainly has a load to deal with. It’s not every person that has 3 mafia bosses all after them, yet that’s what Liz is dealing with. This book is not for the faint hearted or anyone who is squeamish. There is a great deal of very brutal violence dealt out, most of it to Liz and she is the recipient of a great deal of non-consensual sex. If you can handle the violence, there is a fantastic storyline that goes along with it.
As well as the non-consensual sex, there are some very steamy consensual sex scenes that get the pulse racing.
I was really gripped to this story from the very beginning. The story is fast paced and takes you on an emotional journey with much danger, violence and intrigue along the way.
Definitely worth 5 stars and would recommend to those with a stronger stomach.
November 15, 2021
This was an interesting and thrilling 4 star read. This was my first book from this author and I wasn’t sure what to expect. It did take me just a little bit to get pulled into the story. But once I got further in I couldn’t put it down.
Liz was watching and writing things she shouldn’t have been about MI5. When she finds herself talking to Alex there is something about him that is intriguing to her. She decides to change her career and go to school. She is doing very well and when she is close to graduating, is approached by Alex again and offered a job. There is a cringe worthy moment when she goes on her first job, there is a twist and she is put through some severe torture. There is another twist when she gets a coded email, how does this person know who she works for?
Things get more intense as the story moves forward. I will warn that if you have triggers then this would not be the book for you. There are several moments that I found myself cringing. We get violence, torture, mystery and so much more in this read. All of the characters added a great element to the story. This was an intense thrilling read and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Liz was watching and writing things she shouldn’t have been about MI5. When she finds herself talking to Alex there is something about him that is intriguing to her. She decides to change her career and go to school. She is doing very well and when she is close to graduating, is approached by Alex again and offered a job. There is a cringe worthy moment when she goes on her first job, there is a twist and she is put through some severe torture. There is another twist when she gets a coded email, how does this person know who she works for?
Things get more intense as the story moves forward. I will warn that if you have triggers then this would not be the book for you. There are several moments that I found myself cringing. We get violence, torture, mystery and so much more in this read. All of the characters added a great element to the story. This was an intense thrilling read and I look forward to reading more from this author.
November 23, 2021
5/5 Stars
Broken Chains by Karina Kantas
This is the first book I've read by the author. This is for 18+ because it's a detailed sexual violence book. Broken Chains is a great read.
Liz is a wanna be author and it doesn't end well for her. She soon changes her mind and goes to school. She is approached with a job offer. The quote I chose for Liz is: “Hey. Where are you? I’ve been waiting ten minutes. Oh, I see. Okay. No- don’t worry. I’ll catch up with you later. Sounds like fun but I can’t make it, something’s come up. You know how it is. No, don’t change your plans. I’ll sort something out. Okay. Yeah, see you soon. Bye.”
Alex is part of the M15 and is watching Liz. They bring her in because they are suspicious of what she is watching them for. He soon finds himself falling for her, but is it too late? The quote I chose for Alex is: “No, it means you’ll be drafting documents, organising meetings and so forth. You’ll learn the ropes, and if you work hard and prove yourself, which I know you will, you’ll move up the ranks.”
Highly recommended for Dark Romance lovers.
Broken Chains by Karina Kantas
This is the first book I've read by the author. This is for 18+ because it's a detailed sexual violence book. Broken Chains is a great read.
Liz is a wanna be author and it doesn't end well for her. She soon changes her mind and goes to school. She is approached with a job offer. The quote I chose for Liz is: “Hey. Where are you? I’ve been waiting ten minutes. Oh, I see. Okay. No- don’t worry. I’ll catch up with you later. Sounds like fun but I can’t make it, something’s come up. You know how it is. No, don’t change your plans. I’ll sort something out. Okay. Yeah, see you soon. Bye.”
Alex is part of the M15 and is watching Liz. They bring her in because they are suspicious of what she is watching them for. He soon finds himself falling for her, but is it too late? The quote I chose for Alex is: “No, it means you’ll be drafting documents, organising meetings and so forth. You’ll learn the ropes, and if you work hard and prove yourself, which I know you will, you’ll move up the ranks.”
Highly recommended for Dark Romance lovers.
November 13, 2021
It is a dark, dark, dark tale but sooooooo good. It is full of graphic scenes of sex and violence so don’t read if it may cause triggers. This is a riveting and compelling tale is the third book in the series by this author. OMG, this series started out with a bang and each book has continued to be the same way. This story is a dark mafia romance suspense and there is everything you could think of to make this tale an outstanding read. With danger and violence, secrets and lies, intrigue and darkness, angst and fear, intrigue, and sizzling chemistry it pops off the page and keeps your heart pumping and you don’t know whether to sit or stand as you enter the darkness to seek out the enemies.
He is waiting for his time to come to claim what’s his and the woman he loves. She has become a part of the darkness when she was betrayed. Not even their enemies will see them coming.
It was be killed or sign her life away to the Devil himself.
He is waiting for his time to come to claim what’s his and the woman he loves. She has become a part of the darkness when she was betrayed. Not even their enemies will see them coming.
It was be killed or sign her life away to the Devil himself.
November 24, 2021
This book really highlights how one choice that seems minor at the time, can change your entire life in ways you never imagined. Liz is living a normal life that she considers to be boring and lacking in excitement. On a quest to stir up a little excitement and write a book, she stirs up far more than she bargained for. She learns some deep, dark, terrible family secrets that leave her the victim of kidnapping and horrific torture. Her path eventually leads her to Marco, who ends up being the one light in her life, that is everything she never realized she needed. This book has so much betrayal, danger, action, romance and deep soul mate love that it had me hooked from the very first page. There were so many twists that I didn't see coming but the ending is absolutely fitting for a King and his Queen. There are some really dark scenes in this book that made my heart break for poor Liz and for Marco as well but it just made the ending all the sweeter.
November 16, 2021
Wow. I don't think I have a read a story quite like this one for a while. Not for the faint of heart, that's for sure. With very descriptive events, violence, explicit sex scenes, you are getting a whole lot thrown at you all at once. What it didn't lack was dramatics. With some sizzling escapades and constant energy, this is a story you cannot put down. Well written, attention grabbing goodness. The story was a fair paced one, and it was pretty unique. The context was original and something I have not read a lot of. Not quite the way this one is written anyway. I loved the different writing style and loved what the story represented. It was extremely dramatic and a really great read. I managed to get lost in it and that isn't something I can do just for the sake of finishing a story. It has to be a good one. This story was. 4 stars.
November 19, 2021
Broken Chains by Karina Kantas. If you know me you know I LOVE mafia book and this one was no exception. I loved every minute of it. This book is not for everyone because it is a dark romantic mafia book. Its the story of Liz who has been handed a crappy hard life but she has decided to make the most of it. She was singing in bars but decided to go to school and get a degree. As soon as she graduates she meets Alex and he offers her a job. It took him a few tries but she finally accepts the job not knowing what she's getting into. Being a spy for the mob is very interesting and very crazy. Her first job she realizes she should have continued to sing. Liz is trying to come into her own and she's realizing she can be very strong and rely on herself. There are some major triggers in this book so be prepared and also be ready to read all night long. It's that good!
November 20, 2021
This book was amazing, I really enjoyed so much. At first, I was really trying to figure out what was going on and thought for a second the book was going to go in a different direction then what it did. The way it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time and wanting to know what happened next, I just couldn’t put it down. There is a lot of abuse and sexual contact, so there very well could be triggers for someone that has been thou this, especially for a woman. But the way Liz handles herself and fights thou all that she is put thou and finds out with her family, she is such a strong and amazing woman. Macros love for her thou really shows her that she can overcome anything that happens or will happen to her. I’m so glad I picked this book and read it. The twists and turns the action and love story all in one. I so enjoyed this book and the story it told.
November 23, 2021
This book is NOT for the faint of heart and this is your trigger warning. It is a very dark Mafia romance that is full of intense suspense.
Elizabeth is a young woman who left singing and writing behind to join the M15 after meeting a man named Alex. Things are going great in her new career until she receives a coded message. Elizabeth soon finds herself being hunted down by 3 mafias and she has to fight for her life. She faces things that would break most people's minds and likely never survive.
I love Elizabeth. She is a strong, intelligent and caring woman who has been forced to experience unspeakable things and yet she rises up to each challenge and fights.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who isn't afraid to face the ugly head on and see the beauty that flourishes from it. Trust me Elizabeth's journey is worth it!
Elizabeth is a young woman who left singing and writing behind to join the M15 after meeting a man named Alex. Things are going great in her new career until she receives a coded message. Elizabeth soon finds herself being hunted down by 3 mafias and she has to fight for her life. She faces things that would break most people's minds and likely never survive.
I love Elizabeth. She is a strong, intelligent and caring woman who has been forced to experience unspeakable things and yet she rises up to each challenge and fights.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who isn't afraid to face the ugly head on and see the beauty that flourishes from it. Trust me Elizabeth's journey is worth it!
November 24, 2021
5 Stars
Broken Chains by Karina Kantas
Wow .What an intense yet suspenseful ride and I absolutely loved reading this Dark Mafia Romance. This story will grab ahold of you from the beginning and doesn’t let you go till the end. This author has an amazing gift and her style of writing has me wanting more. This is very dark and there are some parts that may be a trigger but if you can just hang on tight I promise its well worth it. Have you ever played the “What if game?” Well sometimes un life we do what we have to do to get by or because we are fooled into thinking things are one way when they aren’t. This is a story about Lily I’m not going to give much away other than this. She is way stronger than she thinks but is she strong enough to break the chains? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I look forward to reading more from this Author.
Broken Chains by Karina Kantas
Wow .What an intense yet suspenseful ride and I absolutely loved reading this Dark Mafia Romance. This story will grab ahold of you from the beginning and doesn’t let you go till the end. This author has an amazing gift and her style of writing has me wanting more. This is very dark and there are some parts that may be a trigger but if you can just hang on tight I promise its well worth it. Have you ever played the “What if game?” Well sometimes un life we do what we have to do to get by or because we are fooled into thinking things are one way when they aren’t. This is a story about Lily I’m not going to give much away other than this. She is way stronger than she thinks but is she strong enough to break the chains? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I look forward to reading more from this Author.
November 19, 2021
This book is not at all for everyone but if you are In for a very bumpy ride with a character you can’t do anything but root for this is it. From the very beginning I knew I’d like this book. I just have a thing about the main character going through heck and back and still seeing light at the end of the tunnel when all they should see is darkness. This author wrote some very difficult scenes but they were very well done. That may sound a little weird but I really liked the writing style and the fact that the impossible situation Liz deals with aren’t sugar coated. It’s a well written book and if I could give more than five stars I’d happily do it but I’ll settle for huge five stars. Highly recommended!
November 20, 2021
If you missed my title - TRIGGER WARNING. There are multiple scenes of explicit abuse and torture in this book, and very harsh situations throughout.
If you can get beyond your discomfort of the graphic scenes described, this book has some really great character development. The opening finds you watching Elizabeth Finley as she spies on the spies, curious about their reality. Once she meets Alex, her life takes a pretty dramatic turn. Liz's character development is strong, and the author doesn't sway too far into helpless damsel, as many books in this genre tend to do. You delve into her mind and begin to understand her as she undergoes some graphic torture scenes. She makes for a very beautiful heroine of the book and comes upon a big surprise in the end.
If you can get beyond your discomfort of the graphic scenes described, this book has some really great character development. The opening finds you watching Elizabeth Finley as she spies on the spies, curious about their reality. Once she meets Alex, her life takes a pretty dramatic turn. Liz's character development is strong, and the author doesn't sway too far into helpless damsel, as many books in this genre tend to do. You delve into her mind and begin to understand her as she undergoes some graphic torture scenes. She makes for a very beautiful heroine of the book and comes upon a big surprise in the end.
November 23, 2021
This book was hard to put down. There were some unexpected secrets revealed that I didn't see coming. This story is full of danger, lies, action, and some great characters. There are some graphic scenes in this story which may be a trigger for some people. It was hard to read about everything Liz went through but at the same time I couldn't look away because I became completely invested in her and rooting for her. I also found myself rooting for her Liz and Alex to take the next step. If you want to find out what happens between these two then you must read this. I look forward to reading more from this author. I recommend reading this book.
November 23, 2021
Wow this book is definately not for the faint hearted. It is quite a brutal read and has scenes that some readers may feel is a trigger. However if you aren't affected then this books is an amazing read. It has everything, murder, mystery, lies and deceit, Mafia families and romance.
I don't want to go into the story because it will give it away but it is such a good read that I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting.
I loved our leading lady Liz. She is such an amazing strong character and even after all the trauma and abuse she goes through she still can love and trust which is amazing to read.
I don't want to go into the story because it will give it away but it is such a good read that I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting.
I loved our leading lady Liz. She is such an amazing strong character and even after all the trauma and abuse she goes through she still can love and trust which is amazing to read.
November 16, 2021
This book is absolutely not for the faint hearted. This is a dark and intense story that at times is honestly a little hard to read. But the darkness and depravity actually just makes it so much better.
This book really sinks its claws in deep and refuses to let go even after the last page. I found myself thinking about this book long after I had finished reading it. The book is full of triggers so if this is something that is a factor then I would definitely think hard before picking up this book. If you do, however, it is completely worth it!
This book really sinks its claws in deep and refuses to let go even after the last page. I found myself thinking about this book long after I had finished reading it. The book is full of triggers so if this is something that is a factor then I would definitely think hard before picking up this book. If you do, however, it is completely worth it!
November 20, 2021
I’d like to start out by saying this isn’t for everyone, there are some very graphic scenes that can be hard to read.
I personally loved this book. I really do enjoy it when a character who has been brought down to the bottom, has to rise up regardless of the situation and that’s exactly what Liz does. She overcomes every obstacle that’s thrown at her! This book was thrilling, the plot was so good and the twists were epic. Overall it was a fast pace, action packed adventure that I know you won’t be able to put down! I definitely give it 5 stars.
I personally loved this book. I really do enjoy it when a character who has been brought down to the bottom, has to rise up regardless of the situation and that’s exactly what Liz does. She overcomes every obstacle that’s thrown at her! This book was thrilling, the plot was so good and the twists were epic. Overall it was a fast pace, action packed adventure that I know you won’t be able to put down! I definitely give it 5 stars.
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