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Kings of New York #1
A Dirty Business
From New York Times bestselling author Tijan comes a raw, tempestuous romance between the criminal underworld and a parole officer that paints a thin line between right and wrong.
When Jess Montell meets Trace West at a hockey game, she doesn’t know his name or occupation. What she does know is there’s an instant attraction that’s impossible to ignore—or forget. And forgetting is exactly what she wants to do when she learns he’s not just a successful Wall Street suit but the heir to one of New York’s biggest Mafia families.
The last thing Trace needs is a romantic anything with law enforcement, and parole officer Jess has trouble written all over her. Too bad he likes trouble. Especially when it’s a brunette bombshell with attitude and legs for days.
She’s an absolute spitfire, and he wants to stoke that flame.
Trace didn’t ask for the Mafia life. Jess doesn’t want any part of it. They both know it’s safer to stay away, but the temptation is too hard to resist—no matter how great the danger.
When Jess Montell meets Trace West at a hockey game, she doesn’t know his name or occupation. What she does know is there’s an instant attraction that’s impossible to ignore—or forget. And forgetting is exactly what she wants to do when she learns he’s not just a successful Wall Street suit but the heir to one of New York’s biggest Mafia families.
The last thing Trace needs is a romantic anything with law enforcement, and parole officer Jess has trouble written all over her. Too bad he likes trouble. Especially when it’s a brunette bombshell with attitude and legs for days.
She’s an absolute spitfire, and he wants to stoke that flame.
Trace didn’t ask for the Mafia life. Jess doesn’t want any part of it. They both know it’s safer to stay away, but the temptation is too hard to resist—no matter how great the danger.
439 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2022
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11404 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,455 reviews
April 12, 2023
Awesome and Unpredictable!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤💙💜❤️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍🌏
Character development: 😠😘🤓😉🥰
The heroine: Jess Montell - she is a parole officer during the week and works as a bartender at a trendy New York Nightclub on the weekends. She has a brother in jail for killing their father and an alcoholic mother. Jess lives with her best friend Kelly and loves her job as a parole officer and she is very good at it. In her job she sees good and bad like black and white, you are on one side or the other with no gray areas in between.
The Hero: Tristain West (a.k.a. Trace) - he is a Wall Street hedge fund manager and his uncle Stephano is the head of a mafia crime family. He often helps out the family when his uncle, who is more of a father to him than his own, asks it of him. When his uncle’s health starts failing and another family tries to start moving in, Stephano tells Trace he wants him to take over the family business.
The Story: From the moment Trace sees Jess, he knows he wants her, though finding out she is a parole officer puts the kibosh on his plans to get into her bed. However, he can’t stop himself from finding out more about her and when he sees her in the club he and his best friend own, he can’t seem to stay away from her.
Before Jess even knows who Trace really is and who his family is, she knows his reaction to her badge means he is bad for her. She tries to keep away from him but can’t get him out of her mind. Trace has the same issue but I like him, he is a bit obsessed with Jess and is stalking her a bit. His stalking is a lot more high class than in some books. More like background checks and watching her work from his VIP room at the club. Either way, these two have a ton of chemistry going on and you can feel it in the air every time they get near each other.
This book was a bit different than most of the Tijan books I have read. She usually writes about a younger crowd of people and these characters were in their late twenties/early thirties and though they didn’t quite have everything in their lives all together, who does? They both had bad childhoods and crazy parents and I think they really needed each other.
The writing was great, and like all Tijan books, the supporting characters were all that and a bag of chips! The world building was on point and I just love a lead female character that is a total rebel and yet feminine as well and the hero was nothing to sneeze at either. I definitely wouldn’t kick a guy like Trace out of bed. The mafia storyline was really good as well and had me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. I want to know more about Ashton and that ending threw me for a loop!
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤💙💜❤️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍🌏
Character development: 😠😘🤓😉🥰
The heroine: Jess Montell - she is a parole officer during the week and works as a bartender at a trendy New York Nightclub on the weekends. She has a brother in jail for killing their father and an alcoholic mother. Jess lives with her best friend Kelly and loves her job as a parole officer and she is very good at it. In her job she sees good and bad like black and white, you are on one side or the other with no gray areas in between.
The Hero: Tristain West (a.k.a. Trace) - he is a Wall Street hedge fund manager and his uncle Stephano is the head of a mafia crime family. He often helps out the family when his uncle, who is more of a father to him than his own, asks it of him. When his uncle’s health starts failing and another family tries to start moving in, Stephano tells Trace he wants him to take over the family business.
The Story: From the moment Trace sees Jess, he knows he wants her, though finding out she is a parole officer puts the kibosh on his plans to get into her bed. However, he can’t stop himself from finding out more about her and when he sees her in the club he and his best friend own, he can’t seem to stay away from her.
Before Jess even knows who Trace really is and who his family is, she knows his reaction to her badge means he is bad for her. She tries to keep away from him but can’t get him out of her mind. Trace has the same issue but I like him, he is a bit obsessed with Jess and is stalking her a bit. His stalking is a lot more high class than in some books. More like background checks and watching her work from his VIP room at the club. Either way, these two have a ton of chemistry going on and you can feel it in the air every time they get near each other.
This book was a bit different than most of the Tijan books I have read. She usually writes about a younger crowd of people and these characters were in their late twenties/early thirties and though they didn’t quite have everything in their lives all together, who does? They both had bad childhoods and crazy parents and I think they really needed each other.
The writing was great, and like all Tijan books, the supporting characters were all that and a bag of chips! The world building was on point and I just love a lead female character that is a total rebel and yet feminine as well and the hero was nothing to sneeze at either. I definitely wouldn’t kick a guy like Trace out of bed. The mafia storyline was really good as well and had me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. I want to know more about Ashton and that ending threw me for a loop!
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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February 8, 2023
Tijan has a unique writing style where I slightly have to adjust my mind when it comes to reading her books, it’s so hard to explain, but when you pick up a Tijan book you just know straight away that she’s the author, this book just had a different vibe, a different writing style, maybe it’s because the characters are that much older than what were typically used to by her so that was a surprise also.
But wow she pulled it off 💯 I had the feels wash over me within that first chapter. There’s nothing I’d change about this book, I loved the characters, like loved loved, the slow burn, the two best friend side characters just added to my love for this book.
It wasn’t dark, gritty or your typical mafia read where blood was shed on a daily basis it was like a well oiled machine, the family dynamics of each character and their families came into play. Where everything wasn’t so black and white it became blurred. I loved Jess, how she tried to stay clean, tough in her own right, but loyal to a fault when it came to her best friend Kelly.
Trace had my heart beating for him, I loved his stalkerish ways (not sure if that word exists but I’m using it any way) he was so protective of his loved ones, and their loved ones, so much on his shoulders.
May 1, 2023
2.5/5.0
Yes, I know. I am one of the biggest Tijan fans on planet earth. I adore the woman and devour her books. That does NOT mean I think every single book of hers is perfect (obviously). *see rant below* Not every single book will be a winner every single time, it just so happens that the few problems in this one were whoppers. So, I’ll present my case and let you decide:
The book starts with Jess (female MC) meeting Trace (male MC) as she is searching for the ladies bathroom at a hockey game. Both think the other hawt and a quick quip is exchanged. But he sees her Parole Officer badge (she wears it everywhere, even when off duty) and that’s it. They continue on their way. He researches her, though (no idea why other than she is hawt… and yes I’m using that spelling intentionally) finds out she bowls with her friends on Sundays and so a couple weeks later shows up at the bowling alley and watches her all night. She gets super annoyed and walks over to ask why he is stalking her. With not even a conversation per say, he grabs her arm, drags her outside and starts kissing her against the wall.
Now… what woman with any brain at all would be okay with that? That is NOT romantic, that is scary creepy (Ted Bundy, anyone?)! And completely brainless and nonsensical for the woman. He is a complete stranger!!
BUT… to continue. After said make-out session, she pulls back and tells him to leave her alone. Fast forward again a couple of weeks and he walks into a private area of a club he owns and finds her behind the bar (she is a bartender at that club) and yells at her to get out (no, they have not had anymore contact than those two quick encounters beforehand). She leaves upset and almost in tears because she has no idea why he was so rude. Later, as she is finishing her shift and going home, she walks out to find him in the back of a car, telling her to get in. And she DOES!!!
Again…. Is this chick completely BRAINLESS?!?! What woman would do that?!?!? Now - I know that when reading romance we all suspend belief just a bit. But the basic plot has to be at least a little bit understandable!
From then on they are completely obsessed with each other. And the rest of the story proceeds from that assumption. And, that’s the problem. There is absolutely NOTHING to support that obsession! There is not one single conversation where they get to know each other, not one hint at WHY Trace is so gone for Jess or visa-versa. Not one time in almost the entire book was there anything but sex in their communications. Nothing that would help a reader buy into this all-consuming love. And there-in lies the problem for me. I couldn’t believe it. There was no foundation to the relationship from which to proceed from. Therefore, I couldn’t connect with the characters. If not for my OCD about finishing what I start, I would have (and honestly should have) stopped and walked away.
I learned something, though, that without a foundation as to why a couple fall in love, it won’t matter how good the action or suspense or anything else is, the romance just won’t work.
Top that with the totally weird, abrupt and horrible cliff-hanger ending and… well… needless to say, I was disappointed. Tijan is usually such a master at relationships. Don’t know what happened but there just isn’t anything underneath, around or even near any depth in this one.
SO… will I continue reading this series? Of course, I love her too much not to give the next one a chance. After that, we’ll see.
*side rant* I’m very quickly losing patience with readers who are so uber in love with an author that no matter what is written, no matter how many holes or problems, they will overlook EVERYTHING and rate that author’s books 5 stars. It happens a LOT with many popular authors nowadays. Seriously folks, it’s okay for an author to miss something once in a while. They are HUMAN! It doesn’t mean you don’t love their work if you don’t love one story!! Good grief! Blind devotion does no one any favors.
*ahem* stepping down off the soap box.
Yes, I know. I am one of the biggest Tijan fans on planet earth. I adore the woman and devour her books. That does NOT mean I think every single book of hers is perfect (obviously). *see rant below* Not every single book will be a winner every single time, it just so happens that the few problems in this one were whoppers. So, I’ll present my case and let you decide:
The book starts with Jess (female MC) meeting Trace (male MC) as she is searching for the ladies bathroom at a hockey game. Both think the other hawt and a quick quip is exchanged. But he sees her Parole Officer badge (she wears it everywhere, even when off duty) and that’s it. They continue on their way. He researches her, though (no idea why other than she is hawt… and yes I’m using that spelling intentionally) finds out she bowls with her friends on Sundays and so a couple weeks later shows up at the bowling alley and watches her all night. She gets super annoyed and walks over to ask why he is stalking her. With not even a conversation per say, he grabs her arm, drags her outside and starts kissing her against the wall.
Now… what woman with any brain at all would be okay with that? That is NOT romantic, that is scary creepy (Ted Bundy, anyone?)! And completely brainless and nonsensical for the woman. He is a complete stranger!!
BUT… to continue. After said make-out session, she pulls back and tells him to leave her alone. Fast forward again a couple of weeks and he walks into a private area of a club he owns and finds her behind the bar (she is a bartender at that club) and yells at her to get out (no, they have not had anymore contact than those two quick encounters beforehand). She leaves upset and almost in tears because she has no idea why he was so rude. Later, as she is finishing her shift and going home, she walks out to find him in the back of a car, telling her to get in. And she DOES!!!
Again…. Is this chick completely BRAINLESS?!?! What woman would do that?!?!? Now - I know that when reading romance we all suspend belief just a bit. But the basic plot has to be at least a little bit understandable!
From then on they are completely obsessed with each other. And the rest of the story proceeds from that assumption. And, that’s the problem. There is absolutely NOTHING to support that obsession! There is not one single conversation where they get to know each other, not one hint at WHY Trace is so gone for Jess or visa-versa. Not one time in almost the entire book was there anything but sex in their communications. Nothing that would help a reader buy into this all-consuming love. And there-in lies the problem for me. I couldn’t believe it. There was no foundation to the relationship from which to proceed from. Therefore, I couldn’t connect with the characters. If not for my OCD about finishing what I start, I would have (and honestly should have) stopped and walked away.
I learned something, though, that without a foundation as to why a couple fall in love, it won’t matter how good the action or suspense or anything else is, the romance just won’t work.
Top that with the totally weird, abrupt and horrible cliff-hanger ending and… well… needless to say, I was disappointed. Tijan is usually such a master at relationships. Don’t know what happened but there just isn’t anything underneath, around or even near any depth in this one.
SO… will I continue reading this series? Of course, I love her too much not to give the next one a chance. After that, we’ll see.
*side rant* I’m very quickly losing patience with readers who are so uber in love with an author that no matter what is written, no matter how many holes or problems, they will overlook EVERYTHING and rate that author’s books 5 stars. It happens a LOT with many popular authors nowadays. Seriously folks, it’s okay for an author to miss something once in a while. They are HUMAN! It doesn’t mean you don’t love their work if you don’t love one story!! Good grief! Blind devotion does no one any favors.
*ahem* stepping down off the soap box.
December 19, 2022
I'm a huge fan of Tijan's YA/NA high school/college romances. On the other hand her mafia romances are hit or misses at times. Just thinking about Rich Prick: A Shy Girl Bad Boy Sports Romance, Ryan's Bed and Fallen Crest High makes my heart beat faster.
Nevertheless, when a new Tijan book hits my kindle, it becomes immediately priority #1.
I devoured A Dirty Business in one sitting! My Saturday afternoon was completely taken over by this mafia romance that was surprisingly mature and less over the top than what I'm used to from this author. I also really loved how well written the book was and the story pulled me in from the very beginning. Like I said, I started the novel and finished it in one sitting, only putting it down for necessary bathroom breaks.
The story/plot was a typical mafia trope, but it was also surprisingly believable and I really loved Jess's professional career choice. Her being a parole officer was such a fascinating part of the book, it was really well done. And added some interesting conflict and tension and made the plot another touch more grounded.
Jess's and Trace's relationship was deliciously slow burn at times, overall deeply emotional, and just the right amount of sexy. The instant attraction was definitely there, it's a Tijan signature, but the forbidden romance, and the deadly consequences of such a romance made the story extra fascinating.
All in all, the book was a very enjoyable and quick read for me.
I'm definitely curious about what's coming next. Since the ending was quite the shocker.
Honestly, I'm actually a bit conflicted about the ending. I wasn't prepared for a cliffhanger. Somehow I thought the book was a standalone novel. In the end the ending came rather abruptly, and left a lot of questions still unanswered. Nevertheless I'm in for the long run.
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
Nevertheless, when a new Tijan book hits my kindle, it becomes immediately priority #1.
I devoured A Dirty Business in one sitting! My Saturday afternoon was completely taken over by this mafia romance that was surprisingly mature and less over the top than what I'm used to from this author. I also really loved how well written the book was and the story pulled me in from the very beginning. Like I said, I started the novel and finished it in one sitting, only putting it down for necessary bathroom breaks.
The story/plot was a typical mafia trope, but it was also surprisingly believable and I really loved Jess's professional career choice. Her being a parole officer was such a fascinating part of the book, it was really well done. And added some interesting conflict and tension and made the plot another touch more grounded.
Jess's and Trace's relationship was deliciously slow burn at times, overall deeply emotional, and just the right amount of sexy. The instant attraction was definitely there, it's a Tijan signature, but the forbidden romance, and the deadly consequences of such a romance made the story extra fascinating.
All in all, the book was a very enjoyable and quick read for me.
I'm definitely curious about what's coming next. Since the ending was quite the shocker.
Honestly, I'm actually a bit conflicted about the ending. I wasn't prepared for a cliffhanger. Somehow I thought the book was a standalone novel. In the end the ending came rather abruptly, and left a lot of questions still unanswered. Nevertheless I'm in for the long run.
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
September 6, 2022
Noooo! Not a cliffhanger! 🤬 I seriously could not stop reading this then.. bam! Why do authors love to torture us with them? Ughhhh
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`
Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres because it combines so many different feelings and there is never a lack of action or drama. Add in a Mafia theme and we get the power plays too.
This book was awesome. From the very beginning, I knew it was going to be a winner. Both characters are hardcore and tough. They balanced each other perfectly. One did not overpower the other and because of that, it was an amazing read.
One thing that I did want more of was the heat. Their connection was fabulous but this book was so much more about the mafia connections and the chase that the fiery scenes seemed lacking. Making choices for the long term was tough but the heart speaks louder than words sometimes. Tijan did them proud.
A Dirty Business is a story that grabs your attention immediately with sizzle and spark and then launches you into the world of underground business and corruption. This is one story you will be hard-pressed to put down, so you may as well clear a day when cracking open this one!
Unbelievably, I have never read a Tijan book before. Well, now that has changed and I do know that I am definitely going to keep this author on my radar for her future work. Maybe even pick up a few old series too.
Awesome read!
* copy received for review consideration
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/a-dirty-busi...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`
Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres because it combines so many different feelings and there is never a lack of action or drama. Add in a Mafia theme and we get the power plays too.
This book was awesome. From the very beginning, I knew it was going to be a winner. Both characters are hardcore and tough. They balanced each other perfectly. One did not overpower the other and because of that, it was an amazing read.
One thing that I did want more of was the heat. Their connection was fabulous but this book was so much more about the mafia connections and the chase that the fiery scenes seemed lacking. Making choices for the long term was tough but the heart speaks louder than words sometimes. Tijan did them proud.
A Dirty Business is a story that grabs your attention immediately with sizzle and spark and then launches you into the world of underground business and corruption. This is one story you will be hard-pressed to put down, so you may as well clear a day when cracking open this one!
Unbelievably, I have never read a Tijan book before. Well, now that has changed and I do know that I am definitely going to keep this author on my radar for her future work. Maybe even pick up a few old series too.
Awesome read!
* copy received for review consideration
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/a-dirty-busi...
July 12, 2023
3.5 stars
A Diary Business is a mafia romance by Tijan. I liked a lot about this one, but to be honest I’m not sure that I was quite in the mood for a mafia book when reading. This one had so much going on and the last chunk was really intense. I definitely want to see what ends up happening with everything with Jess and Trace, and of course follow up with that huge cliffhanger, so I’ll be checking out the second part sooner rather than later!
A Diary Business is a mafia romance by Tijan. I liked a lot about this one, but to be honest I’m not sure that I was quite in the mood for a mafia book when reading. This one had so much going on and the last chunk was really intense. I definitely want to see what ends up happening with everything with Jess and Trace, and of course follow up with that huge cliffhanger, so I’ll be checking out the second part sooner rather than later!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrators: CJ Bloom & Joe Arden
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Mafia Romance
Length: 11h 32m
December 12, 2022
This book did a mess with my mind, the characters were amazing and the story was beautiful.
It’s worth the reading.
It’s worth the reading.
February 28, 2023
That was intense. I don't think I have ever been so keyed up reading a book before. The way this author had these two dancing around each other enthralled me, and frustrated me...in a good way.
I absolutely loved Jess's character. Talk about a woman who can hold her own against the baddest of the bad. I loved how she handled herself. She's perfect for Trace and his occupation even though she's trying to stay apart from that side of him. Heck, I can see her taking over the mafia, that's how much of a boss she is.
Trace is even better. His obsession with her had me hooked from the start, and I loved how he didn't just bulldoze his way into her life. That man is a patient man. He also treated her with such respect. It's what really had me so impatient with these two. I wanted them to get past the issues and faster and yet I know the way it went is a big reason why I couldn't put this book down.
It's going to be so hard to wait for the next book. I just didn't want to stop reading and I have to know what happens next! This was an excellent read!
I absolutely loved Jess's character. Talk about a woman who can hold her own against the baddest of the bad. I loved how she handled herself. She's perfect for Trace and his occupation even though she's trying to stay apart from that side of him. Heck, I can see her taking over the mafia, that's how much of a boss she is.
Trace is even better. His obsession with her had me hooked from the start, and I loved how he didn't just bulldoze his way into her life. That man is a patient man. He also treated her with such respect. It's what really had me so impatient with these two. I wanted them to get past the issues and faster and yet I know the way it went is a big reason why I couldn't put this book down.
It's going to be so hard to wait for the next book. I just didn't want to stop reading and I have to know what happens next! This was an excellent read!
December 9, 2022
I don't think I can stress enough how much I despise surprise cliffhangers. I didn't read reviews before starting this book so maybe that was on me since I do go through reviews sometimes and check if a cliffhanger is mentioned. But there was no indication on any promo that I saw for this book that it wasn't a standalone so I didn't bother doing that. And the ending definitely affected my rating.
As for the story, there was just too much going on. There were these constant interruptions from the actual romance and it became really annoying. Yet somehow even with all of the family talk with both main characters, I still felt like the side characters were too underdeveloped. For as much as they were mentioned, especially Jess's family, there wasn't enough actual information about them and it got to the point I felt like I was missing something.
Again, the cliffhanger really affected my enjoyment of this story and not just because there was one. But when the end came and there was an epilogue I was let down because there were still a lot of questions that I had about the characters and their past. And there were things that felt left open. Then we get the big cliffhanger or shock of an ending and I'm assuming that means we'll get another book for this couple where it will be even more drawn out and will make us wait even longer for this information that hasn't been said for no reason. Like there are things that just don't feel like they needed to be hidden or drawn out to explain?
Essentially, by the end the story felt too unpolished and had way too many storylines going on that weren't getting enough explanations. It took away from seeing Jess and Trace together and added a little too much drama for me. I'm still not really sure if that ending was supposed to be the opening for another couple or if Jess and Trace will be back for another book but either way I most likely won't read it.
As for the story, there was just too much going on. There were these constant interruptions from the actual romance and it became really annoying. Yet somehow even with all of the family talk with both main characters, I still felt like the side characters were too underdeveloped. For as much as they were mentioned, especially Jess's family, there wasn't enough actual information about them and it got to the point I felt like I was missing something.
Again, the cliffhanger really affected my enjoyment of this story and not just because there was one. But when the end came and there was an epilogue I was let down because there were still a lot of questions that I had about the characters and their past. And there were things that felt left open. Then we get the big cliffhanger or shock of an ending and I'm assuming that means we'll get another book for this couple where it will be even more drawn out and will make us wait even longer for this information that hasn't been said for no reason. Like there are things that just don't feel like they needed to be hidden or drawn out to explain?
Essentially, by the end the story felt too unpolished and had way too many storylines going on that weren't getting enough explanations. It took away from seeing Jess and Trace together and added a little too much drama for me. I'm still not really sure if that ending was supposed to be the opening for another couple or if Jess and Trace will be back for another book but either way I most likely won't read it.
November 27, 2022
Disclaimer I don’t do mafia books I am 100 % Italian and a kid during what in Italy was the mass murderers phase of early 90s it was a war , so mafia in my brain cannot be romantic ever .
I made an exception for Tijan I adore her
Jess and Tristan story is gorgeous and slow building they are flabbergasted by each other but their belonging to opposite banks of justice make them be cautious
The love building is great and chemistry OTT
Side plots as usual great as side characters
Thanks NetGalley for the Arc
I made an exception for Tijan I adore her
Jess and Tristan story is gorgeous and slow building they are flabbergasted by each other but their belonging to opposite banks of justice make them be cautious
The love building is great and chemistry OTT
Side plots as usual great as side characters
Thanks NetGalley for the Arc
April 25, 2024
Soooo I really tried to not DNF this but likeeeeeee the main couple just weren’t doing it for me, zero chemistry
💫 It had everything I deeply dislike from the very start, lust at first sight with zero chemistry.
💫 The h see’s a hot guy and the pussy takes over the body and vice versa.
💫 HOWEVER it was hinted in the blurb so it’s on me for reading the book okay? I still wanted to give it a chance after reading canary 💋 (haven’t finished that book yet, as I was enjoying it too much and wanted to enhance my experience by ordering the paperback and tabbing every time I found the Raize hot)
I liked to think that I hadn’t thought about him, but that wasn’t true. I had, and I was still trying to suppress it, but he was always there. Always in the background. I felt like the idea of him was haunting me. I felt him touching me again at random times on Monday. Tuesday. By Wednesday it wasn’t going away.
You guys literally just met 🫠🫠
But now, I wanted her, and for the first time in a long time, I was considering throwing out my rules.
For her.
But only one weekend. That was it. That was all I could take. Fuck her out of my system and move on, go back to my normal routine. All would be well then.
So charming 🤭
”I have not asked who you are. Ever think there’s a reason for that? I’ve not looked you up or asked for a favor. I could. It’s easy for me, but I haven’t. I didn’t go up there knowing you’d be there. I meant what I said at bowling. Stay away from me.”
I almost smirked at her, because she meant every word, but her body didn’t. “And yet you’re in my vehicle.”
“You said ‘Get in.’”
Honestly idk if I wanted to laugh here or throw my kindle 😶
”Doing what I do, life is right or wrong. You’re either wrong, or you’re right. There’s no middle ground.” I took a breath. “Having said that, I do not want to ever know about what you do for your family. I cannot know. Do you get me?”
His eyes were blazing at me. “You just asked.”
I had.
I didn’t care.
Then what’s with the almighty lecture!!?? 😐😐😐
After all of this I still kept going because of the plot only, how Trace would handle being the new boss man and Jess’s interesting family background, from chapter 17 things finally started to get interesting and then I stopped reading. Took a 3 week break from the book and went back into and GUYS, for a chapter Trace became hot
“I’m fine.”
He stopped me in front of him when he was done, but he was focused back on the bruise. “Who?”
“Who touched you?”
I let out an irritated sound. “It was the sister of one of my guys. What are you going to do? Threaten her?”
“Who?” His eyes flashed, and his fingers held firmer to my hips, but his thumbs began rubbing back and forth, tunneling under my shirt. “I can find out.”
“Why are you protecting my brother?”
He let out a soft sigh, almost so soft that I didn’t hear it. “He’s someone you love. Can’t we leave it at that?” 🍆🍆🍆 💦 💦💦🫡🫡🫡
💫 Then at Chapter 34 I DNF’d it, I just couldn’t take it anymore, it was soooo boring 🥱
💫 It had everything I deeply dislike from the very start, lust at first sight with zero chemistry.
💫 The h see’s a hot guy and the pussy takes over the body and vice versa.
💫 HOWEVER it was hinted in the blurb so it’s on me for reading the book okay? I still wanted to give it a chance after reading canary 💋 (haven’t finished that book yet, as I was enjoying it too much and wanted to enhance my experience by ordering the paperback and tabbing every time I found the Raize hot)
I liked to think that I hadn’t thought about him, but that wasn’t true. I had, and I was still trying to suppress it, but he was always there. Always in the background. I felt like the idea of him was haunting me. I felt him touching me again at random times on Monday. Tuesday. By Wednesday it wasn’t going away.
You guys literally just met 🫠🫠
But now, I wanted her, and for the first time in a long time, I was considering throwing out my rules.
For her.
But only one weekend. That was it. That was all I could take. Fuck her out of my system and move on, go back to my normal routine. All would be well then.
So charming 🤭
”I have not asked who you are. Ever think there’s a reason for that? I’ve not looked you up or asked for a favor. I could. It’s easy for me, but I haven’t. I didn’t go up there knowing you’d be there. I meant what I said at bowling. Stay away from me.”
I almost smirked at her, because she meant every word, but her body didn’t. “And yet you’re in my vehicle.”
“You said ‘Get in.’”
Honestly idk if I wanted to laugh here or throw my kindle 😶
”Doing what I do, life is right or wrong. You’re either wrong, or you’re right. There’s no middle ground.” I took a breath. “Having said that, I do not want to ever know about what you do for your family. I cannot know. Do you get me?”
His eyes were blazing at me. “You just asked.”
I had.
I didn’t care.
Then what’s with the almighty lecture!!?? 😐😐😐
After all of this I still kept going because of the plot only, how Trace would handle being the new boss man and Jess’s interesting family background, from chapter 17 things finally started to get interesting and then I stopped reading. Took a 3 week break from the book and went back into and GUYS, for a chapter Trace became hot
“I’m fine.”
He stopped me in front of him when he was done, but he was focused back on the bruise. “Who?”
“Who touched you?”
I let out an irritated sound. “It was the sister of one of my guys. What are you going to do? Threaten her?”
“Who?” His eyes flashed, and his fingers held firmer to my hips, but his thumbs began rubbing back and forth, tunneling under my shirt. “I can find out.”
“Why are you protecting my brother?”
He let out a soft sigh, almost so soft that I didn’t hear it. “He’s someone you love. Can’t we leave it at that?” 🍆🍆🍆 💦 💦💦🫡🫡🫡
💫 Then at Chapter 34 I DNF’d it, I just couldn’t take it anymore, it was soooo boring 🥱
December 28, 2023
“Because when it comes to you, I have absolutely no fucking control over myself.”
Tijan's books never fail to keep me entertained and this one wasn't any different. It was long but fast-paced, I was able to finish it under two days. It's the story of Jess who's a payrole officer. She believes in the law and doesn't support anything that breaks her morals. But all of it is bound to change when she meets Trace at a hockey game. Trace turns out to be a mafia prince who's hiding his identity by using some of his legitimate businesses. There was an immediate physical attraction between them when they first met. Though Trace discovered that Jess was a cop, that didn't deter him from going after her. The story was full of twists but the one I didn't see coming was when I was on the verge of finishing the book. Because that ending has truly left me hanging and I wasn't expecting the book to conclude like that. I hope there's an explanation in view of the fact that I think there were some things left unexplained and some which didn't come to light. Overall, the main characters were well written. I just loved Jess, she had been through so much over the span of her life but her circumstances toughened her up. I was so glad that she could take care of herself but Trace was the missing person she never knew she needed. Though being with him meant that she had to make some sacrifices, I was content in knowing that were together through it all.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review
Tijan's books never fail to keep me entertained and this one wasn't any different. It was long but fast-paced, I was able to finish it under two days. It's the story of Jess who's a payrole officer. She believes in the law and doesn't support anything that breaks her morals. But all of it is bound to change when she meets Trace at a hockey game. Trace turns out to be a mafia prince who's hiding his identity by using some of his legitimate businesses. There was an immediate physical attraction between them when they first met. Though Trace discovered that Jess was a cop, that didn't deter him from going after her. The story was full of twists but the one I didn't see coming was when I was on the verge of finishing the book. Because that ending has truly left me hanging and I wasn't expecting the book to conclude like that. I hope there's an explanation in view of the fact that I think there were some things left unexplained and some which didn't come to light. Overall, the main characters were well written. I just loved Jess, she had been through so much over the span of her life but her circumstances toughened her up. I was so glad that she could take care of herself but Trace was the missing person she never knew she needed. Though being with him meant that she had to make some sacrifices, I was content in knowing that were together through it all.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review
November 28, 2022
Disclaimer I don’t do mafia books.
I am 100 % Italian and a kid during what in Italy was the mass murderers phase of early 90s it was a war , so mafia in my brain cannot be romantic ever .
I made an exception for Tijan I adore her.
Jess and Tristan story is gorgeous and slow building they are flabbergasted by each other but their belonging to opposite banks of justice make them be cautious
Great story
The love building is great and chemistry OTT
Side plots as usual beautifully done as usual as side characters
Thanks NetGalley for the Arc
I am 100 % Italian and a kid during what in Italy was the mass murderers phase of early 90s it was a war , so mafia in my brain cannot be romantic ever .
I made an exception for Tijan I adore her.
Jess and Tristan story is gorgeous and slow building they are flabbergasted by each other but their belonging to opposite banks of justice make them be cautious
Great story
The love building is great and chemistry OTT
Side plots as usual beautifully done as usual as side characters
Thanks NetGalley for the Arc
February 13, 2023
Why is everyone giving 4-5 star ratings? For THIS? Guys….Tijan can do better. This was annoying to me.
People said this book was dark. Dark who?
People said this book was delicious. Didn’t even touch my taste buds.
Let’s be honest this book didn’t even give me true mafia goodness that you usually expect in a mafia romance.
You know why I gave it 2 stars? Because the ending actually was good. Shocking, kinda, and also anticipated by me. But wasn’t bad. But why did it take an entire book for it to get good?
When you read this book you will see that Jess is a Parole Officer. She has a gun and a badge and she lives and breaths her job. I’m sorry, correction, her job was her entire identity in this book. Jess had no depth. No individuality. Shit happened in her life…..and she’s a PO. I love how the author tells us each chapter, each conversation, each interaction. Did you ever forget Jess was a PO? Tijan will remind you, no worries.
Trace was Trace. Mafia goodness. I’m going to be honest here, he had just as much depth as Jessie girl.
This plot line, character development was lazy. If anyone asks me what book of Tijan you should read, I will not be recommending this. She could’ve done better. Maybe mafia writes just isn’t her thing 🤷🏾♀️ I haven’t fully read Carter Reed so I don’t know, all I know is this one is lacking in all categories.
2 star rating.
*What I wrote before reading*
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway! WHOOP WHOOP 🎉🎊 My first Goodreads win 🏅 and I digress lol
Also I’m just excited to read a Tijan book that’s not in the Fallen Crest world
People said this book was dark. Dark who?
People said this book was delicious. Didn’t even touch my taste buds.
Let’s be honest this book didn’t even give me true mafia goodness that you usually expect in a mafia romance.
You know why I gave it 2 stars? Because the ending actually was good. Shocking, kinda, and also anticipated by me. But wasn’t bad. But why did it take an entire book for it to get good?
When you read this book you will see that Jess is a Parole Officer. She has a gun and a badge and she lives and breaths her job. I’m sorry, correction, her job was her entire identity in this book. Jess had no depth. No individuality. Shit happened in her life…..and she’s a PO. I love how the author tells us each chapter, each conversation, each interaction. Did you ever forget Jess was a PO? Tijan will remind you, no worries.
Trace was Trace. Mafia goodness. I’m going to be honest here, he had just as much depth as Jessie girl.
This plot line, character development was lazy. If anyone asks me what book of Tijan you should read, I will not be recommending this. She could’ve done better. Maybe mafia writes just isn’t her thing 🤷🏾♀️ I haven’t fully read Carter Reed so I don’t know, all I know is this one is lacking in all categories.
2 star rating.
*What I wrote before reading*
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway! WHOOP WHOOP 🎉🎊 My first Goodreads win 🏅 and I digress lol
Also I’m just excited to read a Tijan book that’s not in the Fallen Crest world
December 6, 2022
4 'I choose you' Stars!
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I believe this is my first full-length novel I’ve read by Tijan. I’ve wanted to read something by this author for quite a while now and I never got around to do it until early this year when I read an anthology she was participating in. When I saw her upcoming release on NetGalley, I didn’t doubt for a second and I decided to dive in. Now I can I say I really enjoyed the start of this new mafia series and I cannot wait to read more about all these characters!
So, A Dirty Business is the first installment in Tijan’s new series called Kings of New York. It’s a forbidden mafia romance between Trace West, a Wall Street suit and the heir to one of New York’s biggest Mafia families, and Jess Montell, a parole officer with a very complicated background. There is an instant connection when these two meet at a hockey game but things are about to get really complicated when they realize the opposite worlds they both live in. Is their chemistry too strong to ignore? You’ll have to read this and find out!
I wanted her, and for the first time in a long time, I was considering throwing out my rules.
For her.
I have to say, I was into this story from start to finish. I devoured it in just a day because this taboo romance was just addicting. The connection between Jess and Trace is so intense from the very start and, while it’s very difficult for them to accept and act on that chemistry, their feelings for each other are too powerful to ignore. Their relationship is not an easy one, there are many obstacles between this couple, mainly because of the differences of worlds they live in. However, they still fall in love and it was such a treat to read their love story.
I was choosing him. Be damned or not, I couldn’t hide anymore.
Let the cards fall where they fall.
Therefore, I am rating A Dirty Business with 4 STARS because I thoroughly enjoyed my first full-length novel by Tijan (even though she left it with a MAJOR cliffhanger!!!) and I cannot wait to read the second book. It looks like this series will be all about romantic suspense, intense chemistry and a whole lot of feels. I am here for it! I really enjoyed getting to know Trace and Jess and the whole crew of secondary characters. I hope we get more stories about them too, especially after that cliffhanger at the end, gah!
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I believe this is my first full-length novel I’ve read by Tijan. I’ve wanted to read something by this author for quite a while now and I never got around to do it until early this year when I read an anthology she was participating in. When I saw her upcoming release on NetGalley, I didn’t doubt for a second and I decided to dive in. Now I can I say I really enjoyed the start of this new mafia series and I cannot wait to read more about all these characters!
So, A Dirty Business is the first installment in Tijan’s new series called Kings of New York. It’s a forbidden mafia romance between Trace West, a Wall Street suit and the heir to one of New York’s biggest Mafia families, and Jess Montell, a parole officer with a very complicated background. There is an instant connection when these two meet at a hockey game but things are about to get really complicated when they realize the opposite worlds they both live in. Is their chemistry too strong to ignore? You’ll have to read this and find out!
I wanted her, and for the first time in a long time, I was considering throwing out my rules.
For her.
I have to say, I was into this story from start to finish. I devoured it in just a day because this taboo romance was just addicting. The connection between Jess and Trace is so intense from the very start and, while it’s very difficult for them to accept and act on that chemistry, their feelings for each other are too powerful to ignore. Their relationship is not an easy one, there are many obstacles between this couple, mainly because of the differences of worlds they live in. However, they still fall in love and it was such a treat to read their love story.
I was choosing him. Be damned or not, I couldn’t hide anymore.
Let the cards fall where they fall.
Therefore, I am rating A Dirty Business with 4 STARS because I thoroughly enjoyed my first full-length novel by Tijan (even though she left it with a MAJOR cliffhanger!!!) and I cannot wait to read the second book. It looks like this series will be all about romantic suspense, intense chemistry and a whole lot of feels. I am here for it! I really enjoyed getting to know Trace and Jess and the whole crew of secondary characters. I hope we get more stories about them too, especially after that cliffhanger at the end, gah!
February 15, 2023
I will never tire of shouting out my love for Tijan’s books.
A Dirty Business was no different. To be honest, It is a slow burn romance but it’s the type that is so wonderfully written that you sometimes kind of forget the “romance” and get heavily involved with the life of the characters.
You really can’t help but get heavily invested in the story even though this book is intense. I will admit that it’s not all smooth sailing, there are moments where you, as a reader, will feel like ranting and raving but It is definitely worth reading. Definitely recommend. I for one am waiting patiently for book 2.
You really can’t help but get heavily invested in the story even though this book is intense. I will admit that it’s not all smooth sailing, there are moments where you, as a reader, will feel like ranting and raving but It is definitely worth reading. Definitely recommend. I for one am waiting patiently for book 2.
December 3, 2022
Tijan is an author I have been curious about for a long time. It’s a name that constantly crops up, and many of the author’s books have had me curious. I finally decided to give the author a try with A Dirty Business, and it’s safe to say we do not mesh.
From the start, I had difficulty with this one because I did not like the writing style. I’m not quite sure what it was, but it felt so awkward to me. To the point where I ended up re-reading the first chapter because my brain disconnected partway through and went ‘none of this is matching up’. While my brain finally accepted it, it never stopped feeling awkward. Bland, too. I kept waiting for deep emotions to hit, yet there was never anything about it that sucked me in. Which was made worse by the fact I could not connect with the characters. I never felt anything for them as individuals, which meant I never felt anything for their relationship. It felt all over the place and forced, and the entire thing felt like a chore to me. I’m sure there are many people who are going to scream ‘you’re wrong’ at these views, especially with how everyone else seems to love the author’s work, but this one did not work for me at all. Clearly, the stylistic choice here is one of those where my brain cannot connect.
It is possible I will give another of the author’s books a try in the future – I do have a few of them sitting on my Kindle from when I downloaded them as freebies – but I doubt it will be soon. In fact, it will probably only happen if I decide to see if this was a one-off in terms of style choice or if this is the norm.
From the start, I had difficulty with this one because I did not like the writing style. I’m not quite sure what it was, but it felt so awkward to me. To the point where I ended up re-reading the first chapter because my brain disconnected partway through and went ‘none of this is matching up’. While my brain finally accepted it, it never stopped feeling awkward. Bland, too. I kept waiting for deep emotions to hit, yet there was never anything about it that sucked me in. Which was made worse by the fact I could not connect with the characters. I never felt anything for them as individuals, which meant I never felt anything for their relationship. It felt all over the place and forced, and the entire thing felt like a chore to me. I’m sure there are many people who are going to scream ‘you’re wrong’ at these views, especially with how everyone else seems to love the author’s work, but this one did not work for me at all. Clearly, the stylistic choice here is one of those where my brain cannot connect.
It is possible I will give another of the author’s books a try in the future – I do have a few of them sitting on my Kindle from when I downloaded them as freebies – but I doubt it will be soon. In fact, it will probably only happen if I decide to see if this was a one-off in terms of style choice or if this is the norm.
March 25, 2023
Kelly ve Justin için üzüldüm 😪
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2022
This was so good! I jumped in and could not stop reading. Tijans writing style is just so charming and fun and has the perfect balance and flow for my tastes. Of course, I adored Trace and how he absolutely worshipped and protected Jess.
Jess subtle character development was spot on. I love when you get to see the h become more secure and stronger and more herself because of how comfortable and confident the H makes her. I really hope we get to see more of them in the future books!
The mystery was so well woven in this book, a lot of times I can find it hard to focus on the journey because my brain is trying to solve the mystery before we have all the details but not here I was just along for the ride and surprisingly patient but I was loving the journey that much. Gah, just so good.
I can not wait to see what happens in this world next; I’m so excited to see how Molly handles Ashton’s darkness and I’m dying for Jess and Ashton’s confrontation. Im giddy over how much I enjoyed this world and all these characters, it was so full bodied and detailed without being draggy. Fingers crossed that Cole, Carter, and Bennett show up at some point!! I loved Traces little name drop/throw down with the Worthing assholes at Cole and Carters club.
Jess subtle character development was spot on. I love when you get to see the h become more secure and stronger and more herself because of how comfortable and confident the H makes her. I really hope we get to see more of them in the future books!
The mystery was so well woven in this book, a lot of times I can find it hard to focus on the journey because my brain is trying to solve the mystery before we have all the details but not here I was just along for the ride and surprisingly patient but I was loving the journey that much. Gah, just so good.
I can not wait to see what happens in this world next; I’m so excited to see how Molly handles Ashton’s darkness and I’m dying for Jess and Ashton’s confrontation. Im giddy over how much I enjoyed this world and all these characters, it was so full bodied and detailed without being draggy. Fingers crossed that Cole, Carter, and Bennett show up at some point!! I loved Traces little name drop/throw down with the Worthing assholes at Cole and Carters club.
September 12, 2022
**ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I love mafia romances but after reading lots of them it just gets more difficult finding ones that keep my interest. However, Tijan did a great job with A Dirty Business. I was intrigued when I read the blurb and couldn't wait to dive back into the organized crime genre. What I loved most about this book was the unconventional job the female main character had. Jess Montell is a parole office and a pretty awesome chick. I absolutely loved her character and personality. She is a very strong, independent, fierce and loyal person. She had to make some very difficult decisions but it made sense in my opinion. Trace West was also a character that didn't fit the mobster role you see in a lot of mafia romances.
Both characters were very refreshing and that was the main reason I really enjoyed this book. It was unpredictable and full of surprises. There were a couple of scenes that shocked me, but I thought they were great additions to the story even if they broke my heart. A Dirty Business was suspenseful, emotional, steamy and had the right amount of action. Everything was balanced out pretty well, and the ending has me dying to get my hands on the next book. Normally, I am a stand-alone kind of girl, but I look forward to seeing which direction the story will go next.
I love mafia romances but after reading lots of them it just gets more difficult finding ones that keep my interest. However, Tijan did a great job with A Dirty Business. I was intrigued when I read the blurb and couldn't wait to dive back into the organized crime genre. What I loved most about this book was the unconventional job the female main character had. Jess Montell is a parole office and a pretty awesome chick. I absolutely loved her character and personality. She is a very strong, independent, fierce and loyal person. She had to make some very difficult decisions but it made sense in my opinion. Trace West was also a character that didn't fit the mobster role you see in a lot of mafia romances.
Both characters were very refreshing and that was the main reason I really enjoyed this book. It was unpredictable and full of surprises. There were a couple of scenes that shocked me, but I thought they were great additions to the story even if they broke my heart. A Dirty Business was suspenseful, emotional, steamy and had the right amount of action. Everything was balanced out pretty well, and the ending has me dying to get my hands on the next book. Normally, I am a stand-alone kind of girl, but I look forward to seeing which direction the story will go next.
July 30, 2024
Trace Spoilers ahead
Before I start this review I have a serious question, I'm not from the US but are parole officers that idk high ranking? That important? I mean all law enforcement is important but Jess came across as more of a cop than a po and I'm really confused.
Moving on
Trace and Jess meet at a hockey game and are attracted, fast forward a little he realises that not only is she a po but also a bartender at his club. Sparks fly between them but a relationship between a law enforcement officer and Trace is impossible especially as he's poised to take over his family's mafia empire. War is on the horizon and now ppl know Trace's only weakness.....Jess.
This was really well written, considering the fact that the MCs spent majority of the book apart I still really enjoyed this one
It was emotional and intense and I loved that the author didn't beat around the bush and we got into things immediately
While I loved Jess in all her badass glory it threw me off how many times it's said that she's a po.... it's like sometimes the author forgot her character wasn't a cop? Idk
Jess was taken and waterboarded for info by the H's bestie
I liked Trace though he stayed away from her for her own good a lot
I did not see the bad guy's being who they were omg!!! leo you motherfucker
I actually wanted her to call and warn him about the damn cops
No cheating
Can't remember their history but neither were Virgins
I think the h kissed one of her ex hookups
Death of secondary characters
Alcoholism and verbal abuse by the H's mom
That's all I've got as I'm currently in the middle of book 2
Original thoughts
I've avoided this author for years because I thought her books had cheating.....boy am I regretting that
RTC hopefully
Before I start this review I have a serious question, I'm not from the US but are parole officers that idk high ranking? That important? I mean all law enforcement is important but Jess came across as more of a cop than a po and I'm really confused.
Moving on
Trace and Jess meet at a hockey game and are attracted, fast forward a little he realises that not only is she a po but also a bartender at his club. Sparks fly between them but a relationship between a law enforcement officer and Trace is impossible especially as he's poised to take over his family's mafia empire. War is on the horizon and now ppl know Trace's only weakness.....Jess.
This was really well written, considering the fact that the MCs spent majority of the book apart I still really enjoyed this one
It was emotional and intense and I loved that the author didn't beat around the bush and we got into things immediately
While I loved Jess in all her badass glory it threw me off how many times it's said that she's a po.... it's like sometimes the author forgot her character wasn't a cop? Idk
Jess was taken and waterboarded for info by the H's bestie
I liked Trace though he stayed away from her for her own good a lot
I did not see the bad guy's being who they were omg!!! leo you motherfucker
I actually wanted her to call and warn him about the damn cops
No cheating
Can't remember their history but neither were Virgins
I think the h kissed one of her ex hookups
Death of secondary characters
Alcoholism and verbal abuse by the H's mom
That's all I've got as I'm currently in the middle of book 2
Original thoughts
I've avoided this author for years because I thought her books had cheating.....boy am I regretting that
RTC hopefully
July 12, 2023
This is my first Tijan book that has "older" characters (late 20s / early 30s). It still had her style of writing - dramatic and at times OTT.
Jess, at the age of 29, finds herself straddling two contrasting worlds. By day, she's a dedicated patrol officer, serving her community with unwavering determination. By night, she's behind the bar at a bustling nightclub, serving drinks and witnessing a different side of society altogether.
Meanwhile, Trace comes from an entirely different realm. As a successful businessman, he commands respect and power, his path is leading him to the apex of his family's mafia empire. His uncle has chosen him to inherit the responsibility.
In Jess's life, the weight of her responsibilities extends far beyond her professional pursuits. Her mother's battle with alcoholism, triggered by the tragic event of her son taking his father's life, added an unbearable strain to her. Jess has tried to be there for her mother while her brother serves time in prison for the crime that had shattered their family.
The whole situation is one big mess between Jess and Trace blurring the lines in their relationship.
The ending has a cliffhanger.
Jess, at the age of 29, finds herself straddling two contrasting worlds. By day, she's a dedicated patrol officer, serving her community with unwavering determination. By night, she's behind the bar at a bustling nightclub, serving drinks and witnessing a different side of society altogether.
Meanwhile, Trace comes from an entirely different realm. As a successful businessman, he commands respect and power, his path is leading him to the apex of his family's mafia empire. His uncle has chosen him to inherit the responsibility.
In Jess's life, the weight of her responsibilities extends far beyond her professional pursuits. Her mother's battle with alcoholism, triggered by the tragic event of her son taking his father's life, added an unbearable strain to her. Jess has tried to be there for her mother while her brother serves time in prison for the crime that had shattered their family.
The whole situation is one big mess between Jess and Trace blurring the lines in their relationship.
The ending has a cliffhanger.
Audiobook source: Audible
Narrator: CJ Bloom & Joe Arden
Length: 11H 32M
December 5, 2022
Check out our full post for A DIRTY BUSINESS on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆☆
M/F Romance
Triggers: Hidden because they may contain spoilers.
CLIFFHANGER
Jess loves her job. She is a parole officer and is good at what she does. She is also a bartender at a popular bar and she's just as good at that job. Jess has not had an easy life. She has a brother who did an unthinkable thing, but she still loves him. Her dad was not the best person either, but he's gone. Her mom, the most abusive person in her life, is someone who Jess can't seem to let go of, despite the abuse she endures.
Jess' boss is a family friend who has loved her since she was small. He has helped her look after her mom too. Also, Jess has a friend who runs a bar who has also helped her with her mom. They have been her surrogate dads. With things turning up the heat, everyone around Jess is suspect.
Trace is a businessman who is incredibly successful. When he first meets Jess, he's intrigued by her ability to be tough and feminine at the same time. She isn't afraid of him. She doesn't know him. Trace gets information on her and is even more intrigued.
Trace's family life is less than ideal too. Family comes before everything. That also means that when someone threatens the family, it's Trace's job to "take care of the issue." With Trace needing to take over more of the family, his uncle, who Trace sees as more of a father, is relying on Trace to keep the family safe and solvent.
Trace and Jess have an uphill battle. Tijan makes the characters interesting, relatable, and complex. I couldn't put the book down and am really looking forward to seeing more. You won't be disappointed in how this story develops.
Erica – ☆☆☆☆
A DIRTY BUSINESS is the first installment in the new series, Kings of New York, by Tijan.
Cliffhanger warning.
Jess and Trace have a clandestine meeting in the stairwell at a hockey game, changing the trajectory of their lives. Jess, who daylights as a parole officer, carries her badge even when she's off duty to keep the parolees on the straight and narrow. In her free time, Jess bartends to barely scrape by to take care of her alcoholic mother. By day, Trace works on Wall Street. By blood, Trace is high up in one of the most notorious crime families in New York.
With the glint of her badge, Trace goes from interested in Jess to disgusted. Let's be honest, Trace – you ought to direct that disgust inward, instead of being upset that there are those out there who catch you in the act. Just saying. Weariness of law enforcement would make sense. Disgust is another beast. It's not as if the entitled, privileged Trace is an innocent party being targeted for things outside of his control like many demographics. Eye roll.
As you can see, I wasn't a fan of the loathing aspects. Not pro or con anything, just felt it was unwarranted. Weary, yes. Loathing, no. As the novel unfolds, moral lines blur, just as Jess was afraid would happen, while it has the opposite effect on Trace.
Annoyed with himself, Trace cannot stop thinking of Jess. Do I believe Jess could have moved on after a few stray thoughts toward Trace? Yeah, I do. But Trace was instantly obsessed to stalker degrees. I mean, it was creepy shenanigans to read, and the pages turned at a rapid rate. But it did make me feel empathy toward what Jess was going through too.
Time after time, their lives intersect. Jess is struggling with her uncles (parents' best friends from back in the day) and her mother. Jess's mother is a drunk, but it's the mental instability that takes a toll on Jess. The mental, emotional, and verbal abuse was hard for this reader to stomach. While I felt this dynamic was realistic, there were parts of Jess's backstory that were never explained, as if there was this huge twist that was going to drop out of the air at any moment, but it never happened. So while there was a resolution between Jess and her mother, there was no closure for the reader, since the rage and abuse, along with all the things said and that which was left beneath the surface, was never explored let alone explained. Perhaps in the next installment, but it felt right to give it closure now. The momentum was built, only for it to die out with little to no explanation. Furthermore, the responsibility was accepted by other parties, and I cannot see where Jess's mom would think Jess should shoulder it. I still have no idea why Jess's mother treated Jess as she did, after an entire novel.
The dynamic Trace had with his uncle and their family, his father and sister, and his best friend and his family, along with the strife with the other families was intriguing to unravel. This part of the story took the forefront, thoroughly developed and intriguing, leading to a fast-paced novel.
I was able to spot the main bad guy from the beginning. It would have been more exciting had I not, and less frustrating as well. I just kept thinking how Trace and Ashton were all-knowing yet beyond dim when it came to the bad guy – it was all laid out for them. The other bad guy was a slight twist that I had a gut feeling about, so I enjoyed how that unfolded.
Ashton. Ashton. Ashton. Yes, I cannot wait to read your point of view, but at the same time, I hope there is closure and resolution over an incident, because what was put on the pages wasn't good enough.
The main reason I couldn't give a five-star review is on the character development front. There were times they acted out of character, or far more immature than their age group/education/upbringing/profession, or they acted/reacted to things in a manner that should destroy relationships. A punch isn't enough, let's just put it that way, making Jess go from strong to doormat, be it with her family, Trace, or those in Trace's orbit. Same with Trace, decisive and action-forward in one regard, yet lets things go in the next, things that bite them later.
There were snippets introduced, shown as if important, that were eventually just lost in the shuffle to be forgotten about and never brought up again. These snippets may or may not come up in other installments, but they were written as if they were to be mysteries or twists. Since they were left dangling and barely mentioned, I'm not sure why they were added at all but to distract the reader with a false narrative, same goes with Mom's rage toward Jess.
While I loved every minute of this chaotic story, reading it from cover to cover. Had I read it slower, the issues would have revealed themselves and taken away the entertainment value. I'm a sucker for an angsty trainwreck of a novel, with equally trainwrecked characters – A DIRTY BUSINESS delivered that in spades.
It doesn't matter how amazingly or poorly plotted, written, and edited a novel is, the true test is if I would do just about anything to get the next installment. In this case, gimme more. Now.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the first in a new series – and I really would appreciate book two appearing very soon as I am hooked!
What is really clever about this story is that we know that Trace is not someone that we should like, not in any way, and we are encouraged to see his darkness, and his utter unsuitability for Jess... but it is almost impossible not to want them to work out the many layers of complication. Jess's career as a parole officer excludes her from his orbit – he knows this immediately, and it makes him incredibly angry.
I found the fact that Jess could work in a bar and wear her badge slightly jarring – I am convinced that in the UK that would just not be allowed – but it was quite a clever way for her to keep an eye on her parolees, even if inappropriate to be moonlighting. I found her relationship with her 'uncles' and their dealings with her alcoholic mother very messy and confusing, but I guess it took a level of shine off her character which made it easier for her to be considering Trace at all.
I enjoyed the twists and turns, which are done as always with style by Tijan, and I just love the point where things become clearer, and unexpected plotlines find their way to resolution – at least partially. That moment when Trace becomes potentially a suitable boyfriend for Jess is when you know that your mind has been messed with again by this talented author!
Enjoy, I certainly did!
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
November 28, 2022
Jess Montell and Trace West met at a hockey game, instantly attracted to one another. Jess was a parole officer, trying to stay on the right side of the law, while Trace, underneath his Wall Street suit, was a Mafia prince, next in line to take over his uncle's business. The possibility of anything more between them was forbidden, yet the pull drawing them together only intensified.
Trace was sexy, powerful and all-consuming, broody and mysterious, stalking and possessive, everything I wanted his character to be. But I just couldn't feel any true chemistry between him and Jess. Jess was strong-willed, tough and ready to stand up for herself but her character felt somewhat stereotypical and unlikable to me, as did her dysfunctional family members. She also surrendered to her feelings and to her body's reactions to Trace more easily than I expected her to, at odds with the strong woman she claimed to be.
I had wanted to love this book more since I've enjoyed mafia romances as well as another book by the author in the past. However, this story was very drawn out with too much filler that detracted from the romance and several interactions seemed uncharacteristically forced and unnatural. Sex was interspersed in random episodes that had no real buildup or angst. They just happened. As much as I loved Trace, I just couldn't become invested in his relationship with Jess because something simply felt off with her and I couldn't feel the integrity of their connection. I was more interested in Trace's business dealings and friendship with Ashton and I would have liked to see more scenes going deeper into that.
Conflicted feelings and the internal war between right and wrong, good and bad, needed to burn through everything but sometimes it all felt like background noise. Through the heat and charged energy, the intensity of the internal struggle in making the right choices was lacking and, ultimately, I wasn't compelled to keep reading.
* DNF at 41% *
** Special thanks to Montlake and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Available December 6, 2022. **
Trace was sexy, powerful and all-consuming, broody and mysterious, stalking and possessive, everything I wanted his character to be. But I just couldn't feel any true chemistry between him and Jess. Jess was strong-willed, tough and ready to stand up for herself but her character felt somewhat stereotypical and unlikable to me, as did her dysfunctional family members. She also surrendered to her feelings and to her body's reactions to Trace more easily than I expected her to, at odds with the strong woman she claimed to be.
I had wanted to love this book more since I've enjoyed mafia romances as well as another book by the author in the past. However, this story was very drawn out with too much filler that detracted from the romance and several interactions seemed uncharacteristically forced and unnatural. Sex was interspersed in random episodes that had no real buildup or angst. They just happened. As much as I loved Trace, I just couldn't become invested in his relationship with Jess because something simply felt off with her and I couldn't feel the integrity of their connection. I was more interested in Trace's business dealings and friendship with Ashton and I would have liked to see more scenes going deeper into that.
Conflicted feelings and the internal war between right and wrong, good and bad, needed to burn through everything but sometimes it all felt like background noise. Through the heat and charged energy, the intensity of the internal struggle in making the right choices was lacking and, ultimately, I wasn't compelled to keep reading.
* DNF at 41% *
** Special thanks to Montlake and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Available December 6, 2022. **
November 1, 2022
I had the pleasure of reading A Dirty Business by Tijan and man was it good and kept me turning those pages late into the night!!
Sooo, Jess meets Trace at a hockey game. Sparks fly, but both should really stay far away from each other. Jess is a parole officer and Trace is successful in Wall Street anddd his family is one of New York's biggest Mafia...so yeah...there's that!! lol
Get ready for lots of good ole sexual tension, drama, twists and turns and remember to breathe while reading cuz I had to keep telling myself to breathe while reading...haha
5 "Loved this Mafia Book" Stars!!!
Sooo, Jess meets Trace at a hockey game. Sparks fly, but both should really stay far away from each other. Jess is a parole officer and Trace is successful in Wall Street anddd his family is one of New York's biggest Mafia...so yeah...there's that!! lol
Get ready for lots of good ole sexual tension, drama, twists and turns and remember to breathe while reading cuz I had to keep telling myself to breathe while reading...haha
5 "Loved this Mafia Book" Stars!!!
September 4, 2022
Holy smokes!!!! I haven’t had a book keep me up till wee hours of the morning for a while but this one definitely did! Trace umm not sure you can get any hotter! Jess tough girl who wouldn’t take crap from anyone but still made me love her. I was captured into their lives and fighting for both. For their attraction for their families for them emotionally. Sometimes you have to lose it all to protect the one you love and sometimes you lose it all to stand and choose the one you love!!! Sometimes you go through both and end up with way better situation than you thought would ever be!!! I can’t say enough for this story and book and Tijans writing!!!For Jess and Trace’s love. After that ending there better be another one coming because I can’t be left like that. If so I also need that book right now Tijan. Thank you Tijan for writing this story. It was definitely one I needed and will be on my top list of favorites for sure!!!!
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December 4, 2022Where is this book going? It just draaawwwssss it out so much. I wanted to give this author another chance, SO BADLY, but it's just not gonna be the one for me.
I didn't feel the chemistry between them. It was basically lust at first sight, but then we never DO anything with it. And because of the barriers keeping them apart, we just never get to see them have the time to build that. Their relationship (or lack there of) is immediately under attack, and it never stops. But I never saw what was worth fighting for. Even up to 70% in which is where I DNF'd.
I did rate this, because whenever I get past 50% I still do.
But I don't think I will be trying anymore Tijan. I gave it the good old college try. 3 different time.
2 stars
I didn't feel the chemistry between them. It was basically lust at first sight, but then we never DO anything with it. And because of the barriers keeping them apart, we just never get to see them have the time to build that. Their relationship (or lack there of) is immediately under attack, and it never stops. But I never saw what was worth fighting for. Even up to 70% in which is where I DNF'd.
I did rate this, because whenever I get past 50% I still do.
But I don't think I will be trying anymore Tijan. I gave it the good old college try. 3 different time.
2 stars
December 13, 2022
3.5 stars
Damn that cliffhanger
Damn that cliffhanger
December 10, 2022
I don't know what it is but Tijan's latest books are just falling flat. The emotional depth, complex (and interesting) family situations/ drama, and good romance just aren't there anymore. I feel like the only recent book I have obsessed over is Pine River (which was an unfinished newsletter story).
I can't really think about anything I liked in this story except perhaps the dynamic and struggle the MC had with her mom. But even then, that was pretty minor to the plot overall and was more of a weird dynamic between her and the love interest that just felt forced to me.
Not a fan of this one.
I can't really think about anything I liked in this story except perhaps the dynamic and struggle the MC had with her mom. But even then, that was pretty minor to the plot overall and was more of a weird dynamic between her and the love interest that just felt forced to me.
Not a fan of this one.
September 4, 2022
The only dirty thing about this book was the cliffhanger because how I’m gonna suppose to wait till the next instalment??
-3.5/5 🌟
-3.5/5 🌟
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