Killian O’Leary has had to fight for every single thing he’s achieved.
He didn’t depend on his last name to rise through the ranks of the family. Since his father never truly acknowledged him, no one could accuse him of that. As far as the outside world knows, Killian is just a distant cousin, a nobody who showed promise and worked until he could declare himself the king of Boston.
Still, he must answer to his father.
When doing so puts his life on the line, Killian’s world is turned upside down. Now, he must fight tooth and nail to keep the life he’s built. The one person he sees as the key to that is Belle Tate. Belle is innocent, but as the daughter of the man who set Killian up to take the fall for murder, she will be his revenge.
It’s the perfect plan. The problem is, plans never truly work out like you imagine they will when you’re Killian O’Leary.
He thought he was using Belle to reclaim his kingdom. She just might be the one person who can claim him and give him a whole new world.
I'm just a simple small town country girl, haunted by Alpha Men who talk in my head 24 hours a day.
I knew I wanted to write when it became clear I couldn't be happy with just viewing other people's stories. I always wanted to rewrite them.
Like why did Jack have to die? Why couldn't Rose move her butt over? Because that was a huge piece of wood she was on, people.
Happy Endings should be fought for, but they should always happen. Mine might take some curves and twists, but they eventually get there.
Having published over fifty stories, it always feels surreal that this is my life. Hitting USA Today had me crying for days, but nothing is more special than hearing from readers that they loved one of my books.
I read this mafia romance read easily and quickly. I was intrigued that the hero was imprisoned although he didn’t commit the crime he was charged with. The heroine was so sweet and nice that left me indifferent, the strong and ruthless hero became soft and slightly cheesy when he realised he had feelings for the heroine. Also, the mafia element was not so intense or vigorous.
This series has been very hit and miss for me, sadly this was the latter. I was really intrigued by the plot and I liked that it was something different, unfortunately the execution just wasn't there. The heroine was naive, annoying and bland and the fact that they fell in love so instantly was cheesy and unrealistic. A ruthless mafia boss meets a girl twice and decides she just has to be the mother of his children and he will turnover his entire life for her? Nopeee.
I don't often read mafia/mob stories. Not usually a fan. But I loved this book. Killian and Belle were perfect for each other. Belle was a perfect fit for not only Killian, but for others in his sphere, so to speak. Although she started out seeming to be too meek to last long in a mafia don's world, she soon finds her footing and proves she is exactly what Killian didn't even know he wanted and needed.
There was at least one other character that I am hoping Jordan Marie's readers will see more of in the future. Either way, this book was definitely one I would recommend to other readers!!!
I had high hopes for this book because I've loved this interconnected world. Sadly, this book was a struggle for me. I'm going to assume it is a one off because normally I love this author.
Quick read and solid addition to the Underworld Kings
Part of the Underworld Kings series, but can be read as a stand-alone. The only shared component is The Ruin, a syndicate comprised of all branches of the mafia, and Desolation, New York, a fictional city where they are headquartered.
Apparently every author could take the premise of The Ruin and Desolation, New York and work them into their story in whichever way they needed. I have read all but 2 of the series and this story utilizes them the best. There are also threads laid for future stories by Jordan Marie, which I will make sure to add to my TBR.
⛔️ Contains references to, or detailed scenes with subject matter that may be a trigger or offensive to some, including: adult language; semi-steamy intimate scenes; violence stereotypical of the mafia genre with kidnapping, murder, theft, coercion, drug use / distribution, gun running, money laundering, blackmail, subterfuge, betrayal, cheating (not H/h), torture, assault, domestic abuse, etc.
There are some grammatical issues, but nothing difficult to interpret. Primarily incorrect word choice, missing and extra inserted words. I am trying to make sure I mention these for readers such as myself that visualize the story as it is read, because errors interrupt the flow.
The world building and characters are solid, but EZ, the enforcer for Killian, intrigued me more so than Killian did for some reason. I am hopeful that Jordan will publish his story soon, if it is not already available. I like the premise / storyline, but I struggled a little bit with Belle.
I understand that Jordan wanted her to be innocent in all ways, but no person would be in the same situation. Belle’s father is not a good man. He is a driver for lower level men and Olga, the wife of the O’Leary Irish mafia Don that controls Boston. Her father has been getting progressively more unhinged and she is doing everything to support and enable him.
Belle might try to hide her head in the sand, but she knows what he does, who he works for, that he is gambling, taking drugs, drinking more alcohol, and to watch “pushing” him. They also live in a not so good neighborhood, which leads to developing a situational awareness and knowledge, which destroys innocence. Belle is a virgin, but that doesn’t make her unaware / ignorant of everything else.
Ruthless Arrangement is a book in the Underworld Kings series and this story follows Killian O’Leary a General in the O’Leary family, but who is so much more. Used to his life of ruthless entanglements and underground dealings leaves Killian with little time to think of his home life. If he wants a woman to warm his bed he can just click his fingers. Planning a heist were the players are not of his choosing makes Killian uneasy. Donovan Tate is a man he does not trust but I forced to use. He pays an unsuspecting visit to his home and there he finds an “auburn haired” beauty with “sparkling green eyes”. What we in Northern Ireland call an “Irish Colleen”. She is a surprise, an innocent that he does not often come across in his world, so be a daughter of one of his employees is shocking, as much as you can shock a man like Killian.
Belle Tate has had enough. Every pay check, scrimping by because her father drinks and gambles away any and all money. Struggling to keep her crappy roof over their head, when her father takes his frustrations out on her physically that is the last straw for Belle. She overhears something she shouldn’t and it involves the scary, handsome stranger she ran into on her doorstep. Belle is frightened something really bad is going to happen and it will bring the wrath of the O’Leary family down on them.
Belle has no idea how right she is. Her father is a traitor and therefore, in his absence Belle must repay his debt. But what she suspects will befall her couldn’t be further from the truth. Belle’s life is about to become so far from her normal it leaves her head spinning, but could it be real? will it last? Belle is in for a big surprise.
Belle was super sweet and Killian was dark, brooding and dangerous. The two are complete opposites but Belle is just what Killian needs in his life even if it takes him a while to catch on. This story is filled with suspense, I love a good mafia romance and this was a great read!📖❤️
Ruthless Arrangement is a stand-alone game set in the world of Underworld Kings.
Not only do we get a Jordan Marie mafia story, but there are also hints of what's to come, and I'm all for it; nobody does MC quite like Jordan Marie.
Belle was the ideal combination of sweet and sassy. She had a job she enjoyed, but her personal life was the complete antithesis. She was spending every penny she earned to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table, but her father was more of a hindrance than anything else in her life.
Killian has made a name for himself in Boston's underworld; he's ruthless, delectably alpha, and he's about to make a deal that will bring him to his knees.
Killian and Belle have instant chemistry, and after just a few words, they both walk away, unable to stop thinking about each other. Killian is unapologetically alpha, controlled, and decisive, whereas Belle is the opposite, going with the flow type, but she has something to say when she has something to say. Her fiery demeanor is front and center.
They complete each other; he gives her a sense of safety she's never had, and she proves herself to be unique at every turn. They balance each other out while also sparking an all-consuming connection from the first moment they meet.
Ruthless Arrangement is the fusion of an all-consuming connection, a possessive alpha hero; a sweet, sassy heroine, witty banter; an engaging storyline, and explosive steam.
This story is not only exciting in its content but also because of the setup of the next book/s. That was a wonderful Christmas present to find out there will be more in this series. It is by itself a fantastic book in the Underworld Kings series, though, and the lead characters Killian and Belle are the perfect example of the old ‘opposites attract’ situation.
At first I was a bit thrown with a few different points of view but quickly realised it was necessary and then it was clear sailing. The story unfolds to show that not everything in the underworld does go smoothly, I found this to be a refreshing change of pace.
Killian was an interesting character who resented his father and I totally understood why too. Belle too resented her situation with her father and I was screaming in my head for her to get out and away from him! It was great to read about both character’s growths as the story progresses. I liked each character and loved them together.
The mystery is more complex than there is a problem, how will it be solved. Yes, it sort of is that simple but there are many aspects that were hard to predict how things would come together or if they would. Then the ending showed another pleasant surprise in store for readers in the future, one that was very cleverly crafted too.
Ms. Marie has done it again, written another entertaining and interesting story that was hard to put down.
I've read a few of the books in the Underworld Kings series and they're quickly becoming an addiction. Ruthless Arrangement was a fantastic addition and definitely one of my favourites.
Killian O'Leary has his life and world thrown into chaos when he's set up for a crime he didn't commit. Whilst Killian is no stranger to killing, he follows a code of conduct. Someone has crossed that line and now he wants revenge at any cost. He finds the perfect way to do it.......Belle Tate. The only problem with his plan, he didn't plan on her.
GAH!!! Belle and Killian, they were complete opposites in many ways but they shared a complicated family history for different reasons. I enjoyed their crazy whirlwind romance. I loved the intense connection between them, how their passion went from sweet one minute to scorching hot the next, it was exhilarating.
I loved all the tension and the mystery, the danger and the edge of darkness that flowed throughout. The plot and characters were engaging and kept me intrigued. I left this story wanting more from Killian and Belle. I'm hoping Jordan Marie has plans to continue the violent, brutal and seductive mafia world she's created. I have my eyes on E-Z, I bloody loved his character.
This storyline was different than I have ever personally read especially in a mafia genre, and that grabbed my attention from right away. Killian, a general for the O’Leary family, has his life flipped upside down when a job goes sideways. Deceit leaves a bitter taste and betrayal runs deep but it doesn’t stop him from getting his revenge. And the best revenge is by taking their prized possession from them. Belle has the unfortunate luck of being related to a dirt bag and gets caught in the middle of his web of lies. While I felt Killian and Belle had instant chemistry, i just had a hard time connecting to her character. I can’t really put my finger on it, I just didn’t really feel her. Killian is everything and more that you would expect from a mob general. Even when he’s out, he’s never down and will still have the ability to bring you to your knees.
Now someone who stole the show was E-Z. “Easy like Sunday morning” 🎶 I have been singing that song since I read this book. This man, goodness, we are in for it with this man and from the looks of it, Jordan will be bringing us a lot more! I can’t wait to see where this story takes us and all of the crazy adventures along the way.
I'm absolutely in love with this story!!! I've been trying all day to come up with words worthy of reviewing this book. It's got everything I look for in a 5 star read; hot alpha male, drama, romance, and a strong heroine.
Killian is as ruthless as they come. Belle is as sweet and innocent as can be. They don't exactly make a likely couple. His world could eat her alive. She's just too good to be dragged into the dark world he lives in. Then one day Killian finds himself in trouble and he sees Belle as a good ally to get himself out of it. The arrangement they come to quickly turns into more.
This book will captivate your attention from page one. While this book is part of the Underworld Kings (I didn't read anything else in this series and I wasn't lost at all) Jordan is actually setting this up to be a jump start for a new MC series. I for one am searching for the release dates for the next books to follow. I can't wait to see where this series goes and who gets their own books.
Another amazing read. The story as a whole was seamless and flowed well through out. It gave you through overview of the past, present and even glimpse of their future while leaving bread crumbs for the next possible series!
I adore how Jordan writes her heroes. They’re always alpha personalities who will protect their own no matter what, even if they have to fight with themselves a little bit, mentally. Killian was amazing. The growth he went through, the struggles, it all worked out. Then his counter part, Belle, sweet and innocent but a woman who wasn’t afraid to say what she thought. Again something else I love about Jordan’s reads.
Also, I’m praying E.Z gets his own story, but I won’t spoil that for anybody.
If you want to read a story that’s put well together with its own twists, where the characters grow before your eyes and also prove their loyalty to each other. This is it!
Killian O’Leary is considered to be one of the top men under the O’Leary origanization. There is an upcoming event about to happen. The pieces are being moved to make sure everything goes smoothly. But, Killiam cant help feel something is not quite right. Yet Ryan O’Leary who is head of the gang vouches for these new team. So, Killiam wants to meet Donovan Tate who is the driver. Before meetinf one another Killian meets Belle Tate who is an innocent, but is suspicious of her fathers recent shady behavior. Killian instantly is aware of Belle now and wants to help her. He starts to have a soft spot for Belle. So, he goes with the new guys, but things turn for the worst for him. He is sent to prison for Something he didnt do. Oh, he’s done stuff that if he was caught doing he wouldnt mind going to jail. But now he needs help. Will Belle step forward to help him out? Who is behind in double crossing him?
I could not get enough! Now that I've finished I I wish I had more!
I have had a major hangover since I finished the Lucas Brothers series a couple of weeks ago. I didn't realize I needed a new Jordan Marie in my life until I started reading Ruthless Arrangement. This is what I've been missing lately. It did not go as I thought it would. It was so much better! I was hooked from the first chapter.
I loved Killian and Belle. Their chemistry was instantaneous and amazing. They balance each other out so well. Killian had a softness about him with Belle I wasn't expecting. I loved experiencing their journey. Belle fits so seamlessly with Killian. Everyone around her cannot help, but love her. JM has created a fantastic new world. I wish we had more of them. I cannot wait to read E-Z's story! I don't know what I'm going to do until it's out.
Killian and Belle!!! I love Mafia books I'm a huge fan of Jordan Marie's, and let tell you she did not disappoint with this book. I'm usually not a fan of big books, (45or more chapters) but this one had me so transfixed I couldn't put it down( let me clarify if Jordan writes it I'll read it, 45 chapters or not)😀The chapters few by. Killian is .. WOW someone you know you shouldn't fall in love with but dang you just can't help yourself ❣️. Belle is sweet, beautiful, kind everything he's not. But together they are perfection! Definitely a must read, awesome characters fantastic story. Oh an E-Z dang fingers crossed he gets his own book 📚 LOVED IT!!
This was a fantastic read! I could not put this book down from start to finish! I wasn’t sure about Belle at first but she really came through! A total innocent and sweetheart but I loved how she spoke her mind. She was so perfect for Killian! He was such an Alpha but underneath just a teddy bear…at least when it came to Belle! So protective and caring not to mention jealous which was hilarious! This had an amazing plot with fantastic characters and it really set up a new series perfectly! I loved E Z! I’m praying we get his story soon! Jordan is an amazing author and totally brings her characters to life! Received this book as a gift and am voluntarily leaving an honest review
Jordan Marie did a fantastic job on this story, Ruthless Arrangement had a strong well written plot that was packed with many emotions. Killian and Belle were both strong characters, their path hasn't been an easy one, they had many ups and downs in their journey but they were fighters and the bond between them was strong, grew even stronger by the minute, the chemistry between them was off the charts, it was sexy, they were great together. These two were well matched, they were made for one another. This was a great story, I enjoyed it. I'd recommend reading it. Thank you, Jordan Marie. Wonderful work :) 5 Stars!
This was so much sweeter than I was anticipating! While Killian initially acts like he is forcing Belle to marry him because of her father's betrayal, that quickly melts like ice in the sunlight. Belle is all that is sweetness and light. She isn't stupid but she still hopes that if she marries Killian that things will turn out in the end. She finds him terribly attractive and wants to help him even if it puts her own safety at risk. I absolutely loved this couple! By the way, Killian's right hand man E-Z almost stole the show, he is just too attractive for words. I have it on good authority that he is getting his own book soon, yay! 5 stars for Belle and Killian!
💜🌼Ruthless Arrangement💜🌼 So…with Ruthless Arrangement, Author Jordan Marie has proven she can write, pretty much, any genre…romantic comedy…MC, paranormal…and now mafia…and she writes them all very well…💜🌼 Killian and Belle are opposites who are perfect for each other…and even if you don’t usually like mafia, you’ll love this story…In my opinion, Ruthless Arrangement doesn’t feel as dark as most mafia books…and, of course, there’s humor..because it’s Jordan Marie....chick can’t not be funny…but it’s a really good love story.. I read it in one sitting…💜🌼
"I told her I didn’t do love. I wasn’t lying. Yet, something about her dives under the walls that I’ve taken years to build."
Oh swoon!! Killian got me in the feels almost immediately even though he is a tough one to crack. Dangerous, broody, focused on revenge, hard on the surface, enmeshed in the Irish mafia, I couldn't get enough of his smirks and barbs. She was no match, yet her innocence and relation to a sworn enemy became the root of twists and turns, which led to explosive action, and steamy swoons!! I couldn't put it down, I didn't want to!! Can't wait for more of this series!!
This book was everything I hoped for and more. Jordan takes mafia romance to the next level. I absolutely loved everything about this story. Right from the first page, I was hooked. Killian and Belle are sensational together and what an amazing ride they take us on. I know this story is the start of what’s going to be an amazing series. I can’t wait for EZ and the Titans of Hell.
Book is well written a d easy to read. There is a plot and story adheres to it throughout. Male and female characters have a relationship that develops over a period of time instead of suddenly sexed over and over. Crime and prison scenes could have been more bloody, cruel and punitive but added to story nonetheless. I expected more suspense, darkness and intrigue but story held my interest. Female was kind of weak but most are written that way.
I absolutely loved Killian, from his alpha tendencies and just all out dominant behavior to those little moments where he shows a softer more vulnerable side......oh yeah, he's super yummy. I really enjoyed this story especially because it feels like your riding an edge in all this criminal activity and it sucked me right in. My only hesitation is Belle and may be it's because she's just too innocent but at times she was a bit too needy and dramatic.
I liked this story because it wasn't as dark as some of the underworld kings books but it was on the safe side. There could have been some violent scenes in prison or a little bit of fight in the heroine. And I do enjoy dark books. I liked the draw that the MC's have toward each other and sometimes I just like to read about sappy people. This was one of them.
Belle's father is setting up the head.of the O'Leary clan and she tries to warn Killian but instead walks in on something she shouldn't. When Killian goes down for Belle's father's crimes he influences her into marrying him while he is in prison, neither expected to develop feeling for each other or.how they would change each other's lives in this engaging read.
Killian has built a life from nothing while he secretly should have had everything. Now he’s a man respected and feared. But when his past wants him eliminated, he finds himself getting revenge through Belle. Only she’s an innocent. Someone that changes the course Killian was taking. But in the world of mafia business, changes and innocence are deadly.
This was a great start to a new series! A mafia and a little MC. Killian and Belle are great. Their characters are opposite and make coming together explosive. Belle is sweet and innocent but extremely perceptive and smart. Killian is a hard man with no filter but once Belle gets under his skin he starts to see things differently.
How do you keep coming up with these new characters and make me love them just as much as your other ones Jordan?! Belle and Killian are definitely another one of my favorites. I love their banter and the connection they have. Definitely want to see more EZ and can't wait to see what's next! Please check this book out, as well as her other work. Trust me you won't be disappointed!