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Gruco Crime Family #1
His Promise
Abi…
They say Las Vegas is the city that never sleeps. Since I ran from my abusive ex, with my son in tow, neither do I. Blending in to the buzz of Sin City seemed the perfect place to hide... until I stumbled into a situation far more dangerous. He’s breathtakingly handsome, with ties to the Italian mob and political aspirations. And, due to an unfortunate misunderstanding... he thinks I’m a threat. I was in danger before. Now, the cards are stacked against me, and the dealer has an ace in the hole.
Colter…
My last name has haunted me for years. The reputation of my family proving to be the greatest hurdle of my political career. Until the fiery redhead I spent a night tangled in the sheets with threatens to expose all my dirty secrets to the world. Or... so I thought. The wrath of my family is unleashed on her before I realize my mistake. Like it or not, I’m the only one who can keep her safe from what’s to come.
Of all we are gambling on, I never wagered we would fall in love. With our hearts and lives on the line, can we roll the dice and make it out alive? Or will our bluff get called with fatal consequences?
Author Nicole Cypher delivers a dangerously thrilling mafia romance with a sizzling fake relationship twist sure to leave you gasping!
They say Las Vegas is the city that never sleeps. Since I ran from my abusive ex, with my son in tow, neither do I. Blending in to the buzz of Sin City seemed the perfect place to hide... until I stumbled into a situation far more dangerous. He’s breathtakingly handsome, with ties to the Italian mob and political aspirations. And, due to an unfortunate misunderstanding... he thinks I’m a threat. I was in danger before. Now, the cards are stacked against me, and the dealer has an ace in the hole.
Colter…
My last name has haunted me for years. The reputation of my family proving to be the greatest hurdle of my political career. Until the fiery redhead I spent a night tangled in the sheets with threatens to expose all my dirty secrets to the world. Or... so I thought. The wrath of my family is unleashed on her before I realize my mistake. Like it or not, I’m the only one who can keep her safe from what’s to come.
Of all we are gambling on, I never wagered we would fall in love. With our hearts and lives on the line, can we roll the dice and make it out alive? Or will our bluff get called with fatal consequences?
Author Nicole Cypher delivers a dangerously thrilling mafia romance with a sizzling fake relationship twist sure to leave you gasping!
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2022
221 people are currently reading
713 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
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March 19, 2023I couldn’t be invested in the hero’s political aspirations and being tied to the mafia. Neither with the heroine and their fake engagement.
Also, plenty of characters from previous series that distracted any interest I might had had...
Dnf @ 42%
Also, plenty of characters from previous series that distracted any interest I might had had...
Dnf @ 42%
November 27, 2023
This was book 1 in the
"Gruco Crime Family"
series. This was a pretty good read, but it read like Deja Vu for me. Abi is a single mom trying to make ends meet to take care of her son while working an event as a waitress, she meets a mysterious rich man. He thinks she is a prostitute she doesn’t correct him because she needs the money, she is on the run from her abusive ex. When the other girl shows up, he realizes that he slept with the wrong girl. Colter Gruco is a hot sexy rich politician and part of the mafia. He has to win this race, and to do that he needs to do whatever his father's side of his family wants. When someone is leaking info to the public, he suspects Abi. He finally figures out it’s not her, but he had already told his family so she’s on their radar. To Abi nothing is more important than her son Zeke's safety. I liked both of these characters, and I also liked the secondary characters as well. When Abi and Zeke are kidnapped by her ex-Colter turns to his family to get her back. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
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November 21, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/30/2023)! 🎁
December 1, 2023
Abi and Zeke were living in Vegas because they left their previous life behind. You didn’t find out until much later to the reason. Her friend Kristen got her a catering job at a party for the congressman. She broke a glass and ended up hurting herself. She found a bathroom and that is where she met Colter. He thought she was someone else because she ended up in his room. He didn’t find out until later that she wasn’t who he thought but he couldn’t get her out of his head. He ended up finding her and their story progressed from there. He told her he would protect her and zeke but she didn’t believe him because of her past. He ended up proving it to her with his actions. This is a must read. So much more happened but I won’t spoil it.
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March 3, 2024FMC has my name, spelled the same way???? Never seen that before
May 11, 2025
Wow! I loved every little thing about Abi and Colter! These two had at the edge of my seat! I loved all the back and forth between them! I really enjoyed them together! So happy they got the ending they deserved! ❤️
November 25, 2023
His Promise Review
Nicole Cypher
Rating 5⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice 3🌶 🌶 🌶
This is a great story. It was very well written and the storyline and plot points were done wonderfully. Nicole Cypher is an incredible writer.
This book starts off so different it caught my attention and I'm sure it will catch yours. It is not like so many of the Mafia Romance books. Abigail (Abi) and Colter, are the two wonderful characters we get to know throughout the book.
Abi is on the run with her young son from her abusive husband. While trying to earn some extra cash, there’s a misunderstanding that Abi decides not to correct and has an encounter with Colter, a politician that has some ties to the mafia.
Another misunderstanding happens and they wind up in a fake engagement.Abi and Colter have really good chemistry throughout the book.
If you want to read a book that is entertaining, a page-turner, full of action, wonderful characters, full of surprises, deception, lots of twists & unpredictable turns, tension, betrayal, mystery, intrigue, hot and steamy romance, I suggest you grab this book.
I would recommend this book to anybody who enjoys Organized Crime, Contemporary Romance, Mafia Romance and Romantic Suspense books.
Nicole Cypher
Rating 5⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice 3🌶 🌶 🌶
This is a great story. It was very well written and the storyline and plot points were done wonderfully. Nicole Cypher is an incredible writer.
This book starts off so different it caught my attention and I'm sure it will catch yours. It is not like so many of the Mafia Romance books. Abigail (Abi) and Colter, are the two wonderful characters we get to know throughout the book.
Abi is on the run with her young son from her abusive husband. While trying to earn some extra cash, there’s a misunderstanding that Abi decides not to correct and has an encounter with Colter, a politician that has some ties to the mafia.
Another misunderstanding happens and they wind up in a fake engagement.Abi and Colter have really good chemistry throughout the book.
If you want to read a book that is entertaining, a page-turner, full of action, wonderful characters, full of surprises, deception, lots of twists & unpredictable turns, tension, betrayal, mystery, intrigue, hot and steamy romance, I suggest you grab this book.
I would recommend this book to anybody who enjoys Organized Crime, Contemporary Romance, Mafia Romance and Romantic Suspense books.
November 22, 2023
Abi was running from her ex-husband, and she knew it was nearly time to leave Vegas, her friend offered her a high paying job, and when a man mistakenly offered her money for the night, she thought why not she was attracted to him and needed the money.
Coulter realised that the woman he sleeps with wasn’t from the agency when another woman showed up, but something about Abi was different, but still, he couldn’t take any chances.
When he realises, he’s mistake it’s too late his family already has Abi, so he knows she wouldn’t be in this position without him, so he decides to say she’s, his fiancé.
Abi knows what someone from money is like and she’s not doing it again, although Coulter seems so different to her ex, she knows it’s time to leave. Soon she realises that she should have stayed with Coulter.
When Coulter learns that Abi’s ex is following her and that he knows exactly where she is, he only hopes that he’s in time to save her.
Coulter realised that the woman he sleeps with wasn’t from the agency when another woman showed up, but something about Abi was different, but still, he couldn’t take any chances.
When he realises, he’s mistake it’s too late his family already has Abi, so he knows she wouldn’t be in this position without him, so he decides to say she’s, his fiancé.
Abi knows what someone from money is like and she’s not doing it again, although Coulter seems so different to her ex, she knows it’s time to leave. Soon she realises that she should have stayed with Coulter.
When Coulter learns that Abi’s ex is following her and that he knows exactly where she is, he only hopes that he’s in time to save her.
October 20, 2022
Colter is all kinds of yummy
Aspiring politician
Broody Alpha who doesn't do relationships
Connections to an organized crime family (long story)
However...
If you peel back his layers
There are the solid makings of a marshmallowy sweetheart
For the right woman -
Who knew?
Abi is running from her past
Doing whatever she must to protect herself and her son
She's just barely surviving
But when she chooses the wrong door
Her life goes from treading water to drowning in a storm
Liked the vulnerability of the characters
The slow build to their relationship
The physical was instant but the emotional took some wrong turns to finally get right
Some action, suspense, and a little persuasion of the crimson variety and
Plenty of smexy
I am excited to read Anthony's story and am going to reread Lorenzo's
Aspiring politician
Broody Alpha who doesn't do relationships
Connections to an organized crime family (long story)
However...
If you peel back his layers
There are the solid makings of a marshmallowy sweetheart
For the right woman -
Who knew?
Abi is running from her past
Doing whatever she must to protect herself and her son
She's just barely surviving
But when she chooses the wrong door
Her life goes from treading water to drowning in a storm
Liked the vulnerability of the characters
The slow build to their relationship
The physical was instant but the emotional took some wrong turns to finally get right
Some action, suspense, and a little persuasion of the crimson variety and
Plenty of smexy
I am excited to read Anthony's story and am going to reread Lorenzo's
September 23, 2023
It’s not a great book. There are several glaring errors that any editor or anyone reading the book should’ve caught. For example:
At one point the FMC talks about her sons preschool. A few pages later and later in the week not years later he’s turning 8 and in second grade. Definitely not preschool.
Another time a character is called Donovan when his name is Oliver. There isn’t a Donovan in the book.
At one point the FMC talks about her sons preschool. A few pages later and later in the week not years later he’s turning 8 and in second grade. Definitely not preschool.
Another time a character is called Donovan when his name is Oliver. There isn’t a Donovan in the book.
December 23, 2023
Read it in 1 sitting!!!
This is the start of the Gruco Crime Family Series, and what a way to start!!! Colter is not quite entrenched in the family in the way I had thought he would be, but how his and Abi’s story unfold was perfect for this series! It’s not a secret that this is a favourite author of mine, and I am slowly making my way through all of her list of books. I am so glad that I stumbled onto this series now. This book had me by my neck from the first chapter and hasn’t let me go - I’m off to read the next in this series because I can’t wait for when it come up in my reader list. If you are looking to start a new Mafia type series, grab this - it’s hot! It has a great storyline! And the world building is amazing!!! I couldn’t put it down!
This is the start of the Gruco Crime Family Series, and what a way to start!!! Colter is not quite entrenched in the family in the way I had thought he would be, but how his and Abi’s story unfold was perfect for this series! It’s not a secret that this is a favourite author of mine, and I am slowly making my way through all of her list of books. I am so glad that I stumbled onto this series now. This book had me by my neck from the first chapter and hasn’t let me go - I’m off to read the next in this series because I can’t wait for when it come up in my reader list. If you are looking to start a new Mafia type series, grab this - it’s hot! It has a great storyline! And the world building is amazing!!! I couldn’t put it down!
January 8, 2024
Ms. Cypher wins again
I couldn't put this down. Abi's absolute terror spoke to me. You could feel it through the words. Then, enter Colter, who has no clue what is happening. This story is your best yet madam. 👨🍳 💋!!! The way they are drawn to each other through their fear and pain is palpable. Please tell me Anthony and Crazy Eyes get books.
I couldn't put this down. Abi's absolute terror spoke to me. You could feel it through the words. Then, enter Colter, who has no clue what is happening. This story is your best yet madam. 👨🍳 💋!!! The way they are drawn to each other through their fear and pain is palpable. Please tell me Anthony and Crazy Eyes get books.
December 29, 2022
This is a great read. Abi and Colter have a great chemistry, and you will get invested in the characters. There is a great build and pacing to the story. I believe that this is a must read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 28, 2023
What a book!! Loved it. Coulter is having a party for his career and Abi is the server. But she makes a mistake and is in his bedroom and he thinks she is from the place he calls (women) from. The story is packed with emotions, twist and turns. Also he is related to the Mafia. Need to read.
December 14, 2023
I was not disappointed at all! I need to get on finishing this list!
April 19, 2022
3.5 Stars
The Set-up: On the run from her high-powered, abusive husband, 32-year-old Abigail is living in hiding in Las Vegas with her 7-year-old son, Zeke, taking serving jobs to get by. After she's caught up in a misunderstanding with councilman hopeful Colter Gruco, she and Colter must convince his mafia family connections that they are secretly engaged to be married in order to ensure her safety.
Thoughts: I enjoyed this book. It's not as dark as the other books of Nicole Cypher's that I've read. I thought Colter was a great, complex hero with an interesting backstory. He was neither in the mafia nor out of it, and you could feel his struggle with that. I wanted more information on how he came to willfully isolate himself from all human connection so thoroughly.
The fake engagement piece of the plot ended up being pretty minor in the scheme of things. They don't have to do much performing as a couple.
I liked the character of the little boy, Zeke. This is unusual for me. I very rarely like the way children are written in romance novels, to the point where I actually tend to avoid single parent romances(I made an exception in this case because I like this author). So often, I feel like they're written as too young or old for their age, and/or their words sound canned and corny. I get the sense that it's hard to write an authentic-sounding child character. This author did a really good job of that. Zeke was cute, and sweet, and felt for him as he came to terms with the reality of his father. I loved that that became a point of connection between Colter and Zeke. Their conversation was one of my favorite parts of the book.
My only real criticism is this book is the heroine, Abigail. The drama of the plot relied too heavily on her acting impulsively or irrationally, or being obtuse, or stubborn beyond all reason. I can understand being traumatized by the past and having that affect your choices to an extent, but a lot of the time she was just a dumbass. Trauma doesn't make you an idiot.
The effect was that the hero was consistently the one who saw reason, and in contrast the heroine was constantly in denial, wildly misinterpreting situations, behaving rashly, and acting against her, her son's, and the hero's safety and self-interest.
This book wasn't terribly over the top about it, but it's kind of a pet peeve for me, so I'm especially sensitive to it. I hate when a story consistently relies on the heroine having poor situational awareness and decision-making, usually from being impulsive, irrational, or just overly emotional. Oftentimes those faults are excused away as a product of trauma, and/or a pathological lack of self-esteem/tendency to martyrdom. As someone with poor self-esteem and trauma, I take offense to it.
I don't necessarily need to admire the heroine as the flawless paragon of womanhood or anything, but I'd like to feel like I can at least relate to her a little bit. I want to feel something for her other than wanting to throttle her, you know?
I did like that while Abigail got a lot of things wrong, she usually learned that she was wrong pretty fast, so i wasn't stuck dwelling in my frustration very long. Maybe if I got more detail about her traumatic experiences, it would help me understand her thinking a little more?
Back to what I liked: the sex. It was damn good, I thought. There weren't so many scenes that they took over the story, but what was there had this no-frills impatience and intensity to it that was really satisfying.
I am actually concerned for those lions, so I'm curious to see how that plays out in Lorenzo's book!
The Set-up: On the run from her high-powered, abusive husband, 32-year-old Abigail is living in hiding in Las Vegas with her 7-year-old son, Zeke, taking serving jobs to get by. After she's caught up in a misunderstanding with councilman hopeful Colter Gruco, she and Colter must convince his mafia family connections that they are secretly engaged to be married in order to ensure her safety.
Thoughts: I enjoyed this book. It's not as dark as the other books of Nicole Cypher's that I've read. I thought Colter was a great, complex hero with an interesting backstory. He was neither in the mafia nor out of it, and you could feel his struggle with that. I wanted more information on how he came to willfully isolate himself from all human connection so thoroughly.
The fake engagement piece of the plot ended up being pretty minor in the scheme of things. They don't have to do much performing as a couple.
I liked the character of the little boy, Zeke. This is unusual for me. I very rarely like the way children are written in romance novels, to the point where I actually tend to avoid single parent romances(I made an exception in this case because I like this author). So often, I feel like they're written as too young or old for their age, and/or their words sound canned and corny. I get the sense that it's hard to write an authentic-sounding child character. This author did a really good job of that. Zeke was cute, and sweet, and felt for him as he came to terms with the reality of his father. I loved that that became a point of connection between Colter and Zeke. Their conversation was one of my favorite parts of the book.
My only real criticism is this book is the heroine, Abigail. The drama of the plot relied too heavily on her acting impulsively or irrationally, or being obtuse, or stubborn beyond all reason. I can understand being traumatized by the past and having that affect your choices to an extent, but a lot of the time she was just a dumbass. Trauma doesn't make you an idiot.
The effect was that the hero was consistently the one who saw reason, and in contrast the heroine was constantly in denial, wildly misinterpreting situations, behaving rashly, and acting against her, her son's, and the hero's safety and self-interest.
This book wasn't terribly over the top about it, but it's kind of a pet peeve for me, so I'm especially sensitive to it. I hate when a story consistently relies on the heroine having poor situational awareness and decision-making, usually from being impulsive, irrational, or just overly emotional. Oftentimes those faults are excused away as a product of trauma, and/or a pathological lack of self-esteem/tendency to martyrdom. As someone with poor self-esteem and trauma, I take offense to it.
I don't necessarily need to admire the heroine as the flawless paragon of womanhood or anything, but I'd like to feel like I can at least relate to her a little bit. I want to feel something for her other than wanting to throttle her, you know?
I did like that while Abigail got a lot of things wrong, she usually learned that she was wrong pretty fast, so i wasn't stuck dwelling in my frustration very long. Maybe if I got more detail about her traumatic experiences, it would help me understand her thinking a little more?
Back to what I liked: the sex. It was damn good, I thought. There weren't so many scenes that they took over the story, but what was there had this no-frills impatience and intensity to it that was really satisfying.
I am actually concerned for those lions, so I'm curious to see how that plays out in Lorenzo's book!
December 27, 2023
His Promise is an amazing Enemies to Lovers story! It will keep you hooked from the start to the end. Abi and Colter have a love hate relationship the keeps you wanting more! Mobs, secrets, and violence what more do you need? Highly recommend His promise 10/10
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May 12, 2025I loved this book, and Nicole cypher is quickly becoming one of my favourite mafia romance authors, and I’m thinking this series is going to become one of my favourites! I just love the gruco boys already!
Abi goes to Las Vegas with her young son to escape her abusive husband. After a misunderstanding at an event she’s waitressing at, she’s mistaken for a prostitute and ends up sleeping with colter gruco, a politician and related to the gruco crime family whose house the function is at. Abi finds herself tangled up in something she couldn’t ever foresee happening whilst also trying to hide and escape her husband who’s searching for her.
Colter gruco despises his family and wants nothing to do with them if he can help it, believing that they killed his father (whose brother is the head of the crime family). He keeps everyone at a distance and doesn’t get close to anyone, making use of prostitutes when he needs to. Which is how he mistakes abi when he finds her in his bedroom. However, after she leaves he finds himself drawn to her for reasons he doesn’t understand. Until he thinks that she was sent to snoop on him. When his family find out about her and acts, he does the last thing he expects and he claims her as his fiancée, now knowing the truth hat she hadn’t betrayed him. To keep them both safe from his family all they have to do is go along with the fiancée story for a few months before they can “break up” and Abi can leave as she planned.
Colter and Abi both come to learn that things aren’t always as easy as they seem at first thought, especially when feelings are present and the increasing threat from Abi’s husband catches up to her. Colter learns that his family isn’t quite what he ,et himself believe and that he can lean on them to support and help him when he needs it most.
I really enjoyed this story, it really takes you on the journey of how Abi and colter develop feelings and seeing colter grow from detached and cold to fiercely protective and head over heels in love with Abi and her son zeke. Nits not your typical mafia romance, it was refreshing to read about a member of the family on the outskirts of the family, who doesn’t actively partake in the “family business” but when it comes down to it the family pull together and shows that blood is thicker than water.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series and am diving straight into lorenzo’s story next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Abi goes to Las Vegas with her young son to escape her abusive husband. After a misunderstanding at an event she’s waitressing at, she’s mistaken for a prostitute and ends up sleeping with colter gruco, a politician and related to the gruco crime family whose house the function is at. Abi finds herself tangled up in something she couldn’t ever foresee happening whilst also trying to hide and escape her husband who’s searching for her.
Colter gruco despises his family and wants nothing to do with them if he can help it, believing that they killed his father (whose brother is the head of the crime family). He keeps everyone at a distance and doesn’t get close to anyone, making use of prostitutes when he needs to. Which is how he mistakes abi when he finds her in his bedroom. However, after she leaves he finds himself drawn to her for reasons he doesn’t understand. Until he thinks that she was sent to snoop on him. When his family find out about her and acts, he does the last thing he expects and he claims her as his fiancée, now knowing the truth hat she hadn’t betrayed him. To keep them both safe from his family all they have to do is go along with the fiancée story for a few months before they can “break up” and Abi can leave as she planned.
Colter and Abi both come to learn that things aren’t always as easy as they seem at first thought, especially when feelings are present and the increasing threat from Abi’s husband catches up to her. Colter learns that his family isn’t quite what he ,et himself believe and that he can lean on them to support and help him when he needs it most.
I really enjoyed this story, it really takes you on the journey of how Abi and colter develop feelings and seeing colter grow from detached and cold to fiercely protective and head over heels in love with Abi and her son zeke. Nits not your typical mafia romance, it was refreshing to read about a member of the family on the outskirts of the family, who doesn’t actively partake in the “family business” but when it comes down to it the family pull together and shows that blood is thicker than water.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series and am diving straight into lorenzo’s story next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2022
This is a great story. It was very well written and the storyline and plot points were done wonderfully. I connected to Abi, and I adored Zeke, and Colter was alright too. 😉 I appreciated that in spite of everything Abi had gone through that she was still a strong female representative and that’s something I love more than most everything else in a great story.
Nicole Cypher is an incredible writer, and even when her story isn’t my thing, I can’t help but to appreciate how she builds a world filled with characters that seem as real as your neighbors and then thrusts you as a reader into her world and all you can do is hang on for the ride, knowing it’s going to be an incredible journey.
5 ⭐️s= Perfect story, exciting, engrossing, well developed complex characters, solid plot with few to no holes, descriptive environments and place settings, great mystery elements, realistic dialogue, believable reactions and behaviors, loved this story so much I’d buy it.
4 ⭐️s= Great story, highly entertaining and enjoyable, exciting storyline, well developed characters and settings, a few discrepancies but nothing that can’t be overlooked. Believable actions and reactions, realistic dialogue, a book I would consider buying.
3 ⭐️s= Good but not great story, noticeable discrepancies, grammatical and or spelling errors, undeveloped characters or unbelievable behaviors but still readable. Nothing majorly wrong with the story, just not interesting enough for me to continue. Would not buy the book.
2 ⭐️s= Not offended by the story, but not interested enough to finish. Unbelievable characters, poor writing, many mistakes, big holes or discrepancies, many spelling or grammatical errors, characters not believable, unlikeable or TSTL.
1 ⭐️= Offensive, extremely poor writing, horrible characters, victimization, gaslighting, blatant abuse, unnecessary violence, child endangerment, or any other highly objectionable behaviors by Main characters. Would never buy this book, and do not recommend it to anyone.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Nicole Cypher is an incredible writer, and even when her story isn’t my thing, I can’t help but to appreciate how she builds a world filled with characters that seem as real as your neighbors and then thrusts you as a reader into her world and all you can do is hang on for the ride, knowing it’s going to be an incredible journey.
5 ⭐️s= Perfect story, exciting, engrossing, well developed complex characters, solid plot with few to no holes, descriptive environments and place settings, great mystery elements, realistic dialogue, believable reactions and behaviors, loved this story so much I’d buy it.
4 ⭐️s= Great story, highly entertaining and enjoyable, exciting storyline, well developed characters and settings, a few discrepancies but nothing that can’t be overlooked. Believable actions and reactions, realistic dialogue, a book I would consider buying.
3 ⭐️s= Good but not great story, noticeable discrepancies, grammatical and or spelling errors, undeveloped characters or unbelievable behaviors but still readable. Nothing majorly wrong with the story, just not interesting enough for me to continue. Would not buy the book.
2 ⭐️s= Not offended by the story, but not interested enough to finish. Unbelievable characters, poor writing, many mistakes, big holes or discrepancies, many spelling or grammatical errors, characters not believable, unlikeable or TSTL.
1 ⭐️= Offensive, extremely poor writing, horrible characters, victimization, gaslighting, blatant abuse, unnecessary violence, child endangerment, or any other highly objectionable behaviors by Main characters. Would never buy this book, and do not recommend it to anyone.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 20, 2024
This series grabbed my attention from the beginning. Abigail, Abi, is just a single mother trying to make it. She and her son, Luke, are surviving. She works at a nightclub and her friend, Kirsten, finds her a catering job at a election campaign function for Colter Gruco. Abi does not feel comfortable in this crowd. It is too close to the life she left behind. The life she never wants to go back to. While at the party, Abi is caught in Colter's bedroom and he assumes she was hired, if you know what I mean. For some reason Abi goes along with it and takes money. Money that was desperately needed.
Colter finally figured out that she was not the person he thought she was, but she was under his skin and now he had to figure out who sent her and why. Especially after a story was leaked about him and his activities, wink wink. While on his wild goose chase, Colter unwittingly put Abi in the Gruco Family's crosshairs. To prevent the family from doing what they do to problems, Colter and Abi pretend to be engaged. Just until the election.
That's not the only problem. The life that Abi ran away from is trying to come back with a vengeance. Abi has to fight to get through this alive again. She can't allow Colter to put his life at risk for her. Her old life will drag him down like it has done to her. This book will definitely have readers in a chokehold. Readers will not be able to put this fast-paced book down. They will have to see if Abi can get away again. Will Luke be okay? Will Colter be able to save her from his family? I will say this, by the end of this book you will want to know more about the Grucos especially his cousins. Ms. Cypher does not disappoint. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Colter finally figured out that she was not the person he thought she was, but she was under his skin and now he had to figure out who sent her and why. Especially after a story was leaked about him and his activities, wink wink. While on his wild goose chase, Colter unwittingly put Abi in the Gruco Family's crosshairs. To prevent the family from doing what they do to problems, Colter and Abi pretend to be engaged. Just until the election.
That's not the only problem. The life that Abi ran away from is trying to come back with a vengeance. Abi has to fight to get through this alive again. She can't allow Colter to put his life at risk for her. Her old life will drag him down like it has done to her. This book will definitely have readers in a chokehold. Readers will not be able to put this fast-paced book down. They will have to see if Abi can get away again. Will Luke be okay? Will Colter be able to save her from his family? I will say this, by the end of this book you will want to know more about the Grucos especially his cousins. Ms. Cypher does not disappoint. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
July 6, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Abi is on the run with her young son from her abusive husband. While trying to earn some extra cash, there’s a misunderstanding that Abi decides not to correct and has an encounter with Colter, a politician that has some ties to the mafia.
Another misunderstanding happens and they wind up in a fake engagement.
Abi and Colter have really good chemistry through out the book. Love how both the main characters were in their 30s, a lot of the times in the mafia romances, it’s a super young heroine, so this was a nice change of pace.
I connect with Colter very early on, he has a complex history and you feel his struggle throughout the whole book.
Abi on the other hand wasn’t my favorite heroine, she was a little ignorant when it came to some major and important events that were happening in her life and I felt like a woman who’s been on the run for so long, should be able to think through scenarios better.
I loved her son Zeke, sometimes kids can really damper the flow of a book, but the author did great it not letting that happen.
Overall this was a really good book, the story kept moving, there wasn’t too much inner dialogue, and the spice was a 2/5. I will def read more from this author.
Abi is on the run with her young son from her abusive husband. While trying to earn some extra cash, there’s a misunderstanding that Abi decides not to correct and has an encounter with Colter, a politician that has some ties to the mafia.
Another misunderstanding happens and they wind up in a fake engagement.
Abi and Colter have really good chemistry through out the book. Love how both the main characters were in their 30s, a lot of the times in the mafia romances, it’s a super young heroine, so this was a nice change of pace.
I connect with Colter very early on, he has a complex history and you feel his struggle throughout the whole book.
Abi on the other hand wasn’t my favorite heroine, she was a little ignorant when it came to some major and important events that were happening in her life and I felt like a woman who’s been on the run for so long, should be able to think through scenarios better.
I loved her son Zeke, sometimes kids can really damper the flow of a book, but the author did great it not letting that happen.
Overall this was a really good book, the story kept moving, there wasn’t too much inner dialogue, and the spice was a 2/5. I will def read more from this author.
March 28, 2023
This book starts off so different it caught my attention and I'm sure it will catch yours. It is not like so many of the Mafia Romance books. Abigail (Abi) and Colter, are the two wonderful characters we get to know throughout the book. Abigail is running with her son away from her abusive husband and Colter is a politician with family ties to the Mafia (who doesn't want to be part of the Mafia).
When Abi & Colter first met, Colter believes Abi is in his room for sex that he has paid for her. Abi doesn't tell him that she isn't the gal that he ordered and takes his money. The two are force together to keep rumors at a minimum. Before they know it they are supporting, protecting, and loving each other without realizing it.
If you want to read a book that is entertaining, a page-turner, full of action, wonderful characters, full of surprises, deception, lots of twists & unpredictable turns, tension, betrayal, mystery, intrigue, hot and steamy romance, I suggest you grab this book. I would recommend this book to anybody who enjoys Organized Crime, Contemporary Romance, Mafia Romance and Romantic Suspense books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When Abi & Colter first met, Colter believes Abi is in his room for sex that he has paid for her. Abi doesn't tell him that she isn't the gal that he ordered and takes his money. The two are force together to keep rumors at a minimum. Before they know it they are supporting, protecting, and loving each other without realizing it.
If you want to read a book that is entertaining, a page-turner, full of action, wonderful characters, full of surprises, deception, lots of twists & unpredictable turns, tension, betrayal, mystery, intrigue, hot and steamy romance, I suggest you grab this book. I would recommend this book to anybody who enjoys Organized Crime, Contemporary Romance, Mafia Romance and Romantic Suspense books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 14, 2022
I know this doesn't do the book justice,but you really need to read this book.
Abi is a great mum. She's living in fear of her abusive husband finding her and her son . And yet her son is her whole life,keeping him safe and happy is the reason for her taking the extra opportunity when presented with Colter Gruco who party she was working at .
Unfortunately wires get crossed and Abi is then propelled into a dangerous situation.
Colter Gruco has familial ties with the 'Mob Grucos',And they have a invested interest in Colter running for senator.
Colter at first comes gunning for her,then later tries to help her and they end up in a 'out of the frying pan and in to the fire 'situation.
This is a really well written book that sweeps you up in Abi and Colters lives. You can't help worrying for her and Zekes life. Her fear and doubt runs through you when reading her aspects.
And I wanted to hate Colter especially in the beginning,but he's not portrayed like the typical Alphahole politician. He is just a really jaded guy.
Abi is a great mum. She's living in fear of her abusive husband finding her and her son . And yet her son is her whole life,keeping him safe and happy is the reason for her taking the extra opportunity when presented with Colter Gruco who party she was working at .
Unfortunately wires get crossed and Abi is then propelled into a dangerous situation.
Colter Gruco has familial ties with the 'Mob Grucos',And they have a invested interest in Colter running for senator.
Colter at first comes gunning for her,then later tries to help her and they end up in a 'out of the frying pan and in to the fire 'situation.
This is a really well written book that sweeps you up in Abi and Colters lives. You can't help worrying for her and Zekes life. Her fear and doubt runs through you when reading her aspects.
And I wanted to hate Colter especially in the beginning,but he's not portrayed like the typical Alphahole politician. He is just a really jaded guy.
February 6, 2023
Intriguing start…
Las Vegas. Sin City. A place to explore. Or to hide. Abi was doing most of the latter and when she became entangled with Colter, she was dragged into a spotlight she’d worked hard to stay away from. She was on the run and her son was the most important thing in her life. When a momentary step outside of character meant she was in deeper than ever, the heat turned up…
From a truly unique meeting, their relationship was on shaky ground. Lies and secrets were going to be revealed whether they liked them or not. I wavered about Colter for a while. His character was so closed off but Abi wasn’t showing her cards either so it was a work in progress for trust to be built between them. And for me to warm up to them. A bit of a slow start but once the story started diving into Colter’s family obligations – and history – I was hooked.
This read was an unexpected find, a new author (to me) and with a wild, climactic ending, has me thirsty for more… Fantastic!
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to BookSirens
Las Vegas. Sin City. A place to explore. Or to hide. Abi was doing most of the latter and when she became entangled with Colter, she was dragged into a spotlight she’d worked hard to stay away from. She was on the run and her son was the most important thing in her life. When a momentary step outside of character meant she was in deeper than ever, the heat turned up…
From a truly unique meeting, their relationship was on shaky ground. Lies and secrets were going to be revealed whether they liked them or not. I wavered about Colter for a while. His character was so closed off but Abi wasn’t showing her cards either so it was a work in progress for trust to be built between them. And for me to warm up to them. A bit of a slow start but once the story started diving into Colter’s family obligations – and history – I was hooked.
This read was an unexpected find, a new author (to me) and with a wild, climactic ending, has me thirsty for more… Fantastic!
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to BookSirens
September 10, 2023
4/5 stars!!
The start was a bit slow but once you get into it, it’s kinda hard to look away. Abi is a strong, single mama running to escape her past. Colter is a strategic politician who is trying to find his place. Two lost lonely souls found each other by chance. The connection between the two is written really well. I enjoyed watching them realise their feelings for each other through the circumstances they find themselves in. I also liked that it’s somewhat fast paced and that the plot leaves you intrigued, wanting to know more. The lack of communication is what throws me off though. The secrecy I can understand but it gets a bit old after a while of withholding info (especially if it’s to do with their safety).
Overall it was a good read and the ending was definitely worth the angst. I liked that the suspense didn’t fall flat after such an intense build throughout the book. Excited to know more about the Gruco family. I received a copy of this and am leaving this honest review voluntarily <3
The start was a bit slow but once you get into it, it’s kinda hard to look away. Abi is a strong, single mama running to escape her past. Colter is a strategic politician who is trying to find his place. Two lost lonely souls found each other by chance. The connection between the two is written really well. I enjoyed watching them realise their feelings for each other through the circumstances they find themselves in. I also liked that it’s somewhat fast paced and that the plot leaves you intrigued, wanting to know more. The lack of communication is what throws me off though. The secrecy I can understand but it gets a bit old after a while of withholding info (especially if it’s to do with their safety).
Overall it was a good read and the ending was definitely worth the angst. I liked that the suspense didn’t fall flat after such an intense build throughout the book. Excited to know more about the Gruco family. I received a copy of this and am leaving this honest review voluntarily <3
November 25, 2023
I am not sure where to start other than to say, this is a fabulous read. His Promise is the first installment of the Gruco Crime Family series, and you have to read it. This is the story of Abi, a woman on the run from an abusive husband, and Colter, a member of the Gruco Crime Family and is running for city council position.
Abi is a great FMC. She is a victim of domestic vi0lenc3 and is hiding from her husband with her young son. She is strong, vulnerable and a fierce mamma bear. Colter is MMC that takes a few chapters to warm up to as he is very arrogant, cold, and dismissive. However, once he starts to show is softer side and you learn more about his background, he will quickly become one of your favorite book boyfriends. Both characters have walls built around their hearts; but once the walls crack, watch out.
I loved that my opinion of characters changed throughout the book. The writing was amazing, the tension kept the story moving and overall story was just so good. I cannot wait to finish reading this series.
Abi is a great FMC. She is a victim of domestic vi0lenc3 and is hiding from her husband with her young son. She is strong, vulnerable and a fierce mamma bear. Colter is MMC that takes a few chapters to warm up to as he is very arrogant, cold, and dismissive. However, once he starts to show is softer side and you learn more about his background, he will quickly become one of your favorite book boyfriends. Both characters have walls built around their hearts; but once the walls crack, watch out.
I loved that my opinion of characters changed throughout the book. The writing was amazing, the tension kept the story moving and overall story was just so good. I cannot wait to finish reading this series.
November 25, 2023
His Promise
Abi is on the run with her son from her ex who was a super horrible person. When she’s working an event as a waitress, she meets a mysterious rich man. He thinks she is a lady of the night and she doesn’t correct him because she needs the money.
Colter is a rich politician and part of the mafia. He has to win this race, and to do that he needs to do whatever his fathers side of his family wants. When someone is leaking info to the public he suspects Abi. He finally figures out it’s not her but he had already told his family so she’s on their radar.
To her Abi and Zeke safe, he tells the family that she’s his fiancé. The more time he spends with her the more his feelings for her increase. That is until someone else knows he’s not really her fiancé and threatens to leak all of his secrets.
This is a fake engagement, mafia, stalker, spicy story and I absolutely devoured it. I absolutely love all PD Nicole Cypher’s books and this one is no different. I can’t wait for the others in the series.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
TW: 🖤🖤
Abi is on the run with her son from her ex who was a super horrible person. When she’s working an event as a waitress, she meets a mysterious rich man. He thinks she is a lady of the night and she doesn’t correct him because she needs the money.
Colter is a rich politician and part of the mafia. He has to win this race, and to do that he needs to do whatever his fathers side of his family wants. When someone is leaking info to the public he suspects Abi. He finally figures out it’s not her but he had already told his family so she’s on their radar.
To her Abi and Zeke safe, he tells the family that she’s his fiancé. The more time he spends with her the more his feelings for her increase. That is until someone else knows he’s not really her fiancé and threatens to leak all of his secrets.
This is a fake engagement, mafia, stalker, spicy story and I absolutely devoured it. I absolutely love all PD Nicole Cypher’s books and this one is no different. I can’t wait for the others in the series.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
TW: 🖤🖤
November 8, 2022
The blurb drew me in and I liked the story overall. The heroine, Abi is running from an abusive ex and becomes involved with the hero due to a mistaken identity situation. The hero, Colter is loosely linked to the mafia. This was a quick read and the writing was really good.
I think this story had potential. I liked both characters although I would have liked a little more depth to them. There was a lot more 'telling' than 'showing' in this book and this made it difficult to see the chemistry between the two main characters and therefore their love story was not entirely believable.
Calling it an 'enemies to lovers' mafia romance sets certain expectations which the book didn’t quite deliver on; they were barely enemies before they became lovers and interaction with the mafia and portrayal of mafia activity was minimal.
Overall this was a good, easy read; I finished it in a day. Thank you to BookSirens and the author for the free copy; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I think this story had potential. I liked both characters although I would have liked a little more depth to them. There was a lot more 'telling' than 'showing' in this book and this made it difficult to see the chemistry between the two main characters and therefore their love story was not entirely believable.
Calling it an 'enemies to lovers' mafia romance sets certain expectations which the book didn’t quite deliver on; they were barely enemies before they became lovers and interaction with the mafia and portrayal of mafia activity was minimal.
Overall this was a good, easy read; I finished it in a day. Thank you to BookSirens and the author for the free copy; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 20, 2022
This is a new to me author and I will be reading other books by her. There were lots of things I liked. I love a fake relationship trope. Also the sexy mix up in the beginning was hot but also funny. I like these are legit adults and not a heroine that was 18 to 22 with a 30 something man. I like age gap romances but I also like to read realistic evenly matched couples. The h is a single mom running away from her abusive ex. Usually children annoy me in romances or soap operas but her son was written well.
Colter was a great male lead. Though this is a Mafia series he wasn't really in the Mafia and was trying to make a life of his own.
I liked Abi but I did want to shake her a few times. I get there needs to be drama but a few times I wanted to scream at her to get some sense or to use her words. Again I overall I liked her and her stubbornness wasn't so bad that it spoiled the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Colter was a great male lead. Though this is a Mafia series he wasn't really in the Mafia and was trying to make a life of his own.
I liked Abi but I did want to shake her a few times. I get there needs to be drama but a few times I wanted to scream at her to get some sense or to use her words. Again I overall I liked her and her stubbornness wasn't so bad that it spoiled the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 20, 2022
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG!! Wow I absolutely loved reading this book, I could not put it down. The author has done a brilliant job bringing this story to life with alot of emotions throughout this rollercoaster ride of a story. Abi and her son have been on the run from her husband Devin, to fall in the hands of a family worse than Devin. Colter has two weeks until the election for him to be mayor of Los Vegas, Colter caught Abi in his bedroom thinking she was someone else he dominated her into submission then a few hours later the rightful person turned up well all he'll broke loose now the search is on. Can Abi trust anyone or does she have to keep running with her son.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG!! Wow I absolutely loved reading this book, I could not put it down. The author has done a brilliant job bringing this story to life with alot of emotions throughout this rollercoaster ride of a story. Abi and her son have been on the run from her husband Devin, to fall in the hands of a family worse than Devin. Colter has two weeks until the election for him to be mayor of Los Vegas, Colter caught Abi in his bedroom thinking she was someone else he dominated her into submission then a few hours later the rightful person turned up well all he'll broke loose now the search is on. Can Abi trust anyone or does she have to keep running with her son.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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