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Blood and Bourbon #1
Mine to Protect
Alister Amato is rich, powerful, and feared by all who know the truth. He’s the Blood King, a mafia boss with a lust for blood and an infinite reach. Everything in me screams I should stay away. But when my Organized Crime Task Force is called to investigate the slaughter of a rival criminal syndicate, I know that isn’t an option. The way the men were killed is something I’ve only seen once before—eighteen years ago when my mother was murdered and I was orphaned. I don’t know how my mother wound up in the clutches of the mafia. But, after all this time, I will stop at nothing to discover the truth. Even if it means aligning myself with the dangerous, mysterious, and undeniably handsome, Blood King.
They call me King, but I am nothing but a prisoner. The world of darkness I belong to has stolen everything from me—my mother, my sister, my happiness, my freedom. Most of all, it has stolen my ability to love. If it weren’t for my sister, Sophia, I would walk away from the throne I never wanted and let New Orleans burn. But even that would not set me free. My name and my blood have placed a target on my back and cursed anyone who stands beside me to the same fate. Which is why when FBI agent Ariana Valentine weasels her way into my life and heart, I do everything I can not to fall for her. My love is a death sentence. And, after everything this world has taken from me, I won’t let it take her too. Even if it means I have to walk away from the only woman I’ve ever allowed myself to love.
STANDALONE - DUAL POV - ITALIAN MAFIA - FORBIDDEN LOVE - SLOW BURN - SENSUAL NOT STEAMY - HEA
They call me King, but I am nothing but a prisoner. The world of darkness I belong to has stolen everything from me—my mother, my sister, my happiness, my freedom. Most of all, it has stolen my ability to love. If it weren’t for my sister, Sophia, I would walk away from the throne I never wanted and let New Orleans burn. But even that would not set me free. My name and my blood have placed a target on my back and cursed anyone who stands beside me to the same fate. Which is why when FBI agent Ariana Valentine weasels her way into my life and heart, I do everything I can not to fall for her. My love is a death sentence. And, after everything this world has taken from me, I won’t let it take her too. Even if it means I have to walk away from the only woman I’ve ever allowed myself to love.
STANDALONE - DUAL POV - ITALIAN MAFIA - FORBIDDEN LOVE - SLOW BURN - SENSUAL NOT STEAMY - HEA
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2022
270 people are currently reading
6491 people want to read
About the author
Emily A. Myers
9 books224 followersHi everyone and welcome to my Goodreads page! I am an award-winning romantic suspense author and am most known for my mafia romance series, Blood and Bourbon.
Find me on Instagram and other platforms @emilymyersauthor
Find my books on Amazon.
Find me on Instagram and other platforms @emilymyersauthor
Find my books on Amazon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
December 3, 2022
Emily A. Myers is a new to me author and once I finished this book I immediately put her other two books on my TBR shelf and my Wishlist.
Alister Amato is a Mafia Boss known as The Blood King, he runs the crime syndicate in New Orleans since his father's passing a year earlier. He has seen a lot of death around him and a lot has come at his own hands but when you cross his family you will pay and most times its with blood.
Ariana Valentine is an FBI agent secretly searching for answers to her mothers murder when she was ten that left her orphaned. When her Organized Crime Task Force is called to investigate the slaughter of a rival criminal syndicate she knows who is responsible and Alister may just be the person who can help give her answers on what happened to her mother all those years ago.
If you follow my reviews you know I am all about the spice in my books, well hold on to your seats folks because this book was sooooo good I didn't even miss the lack of spice! This was the ultimate slow burn, only one sexy scene, and I kid you not when I say that I was so engrossed with everything that was going on that I didn't even realize that they weren't getting it on until they finally did. LOL
As this year is coming to a close soon I am going to go ahead and say that this is in my top ten reads for the year, and my top three for authors new to me!
If you enjoy Mafia Romances, Enemies to Lovers Romances or are looking for a book that you will totally lose yourself in I highly recommend this book to you.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewMtP
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Alister Amato is a Mafia Boss known as The Blood King, he runs the crime syndicate in New Orleans since his father's passing a year earlier. He has seen a lot of death around him and a lot has come at his own hands but when you cross his family you will pay and most times its with blood.
Ariana Valentine is an FBI agent secretly searching for answers to her mothers murder when she was ten that left her orphaned. When her Organized Crime Task Force is called to investigate the slaughter of a rival criminal syndicate she knows who is responsible and Alister may just be the person who can help give her answers on what happened to her mother all those years ago.
If you follow my reviews you know I am all about the spice in my books, well hold on to your seats folks because this book was sooooo good I didn't even miss the lack of spice! This was the ultimate slow burn, only one sexy scene, and I kid you not when I say that I was so engrossed with everything that was going on that I didn't even realize that they weren't getting it on until they finally did. LOL
As this year is coming to a close soon I am going to go ahead and say that this is in my top ten reads for the year, and my top three for authors new to me!
If you enjoy Mafia Romances, Enemies to Lovers Romances or are looking for a book that you will totally lose yourself in I highly recommend this book to you.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewMtP
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
November 30, 2022
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: opposing sides (mafia/FBI)
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥
Really enjoyed it! Mine to Protect is the first book I've read by Emily A Myers and I wasn't sure what to expect. What I got was an emotional charged read that was heavy on both the storyline as well as the character development. I am constantly looking for the mafia/FBI trope and this one did not disappoint with tons of tension and twists and turns. This story was a super slow burn and while I did feel it meandered a bit in spots, it definitely held my attention to the end.
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
Trope: opposing sides (mafia/FBI)
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥
Really enjoyed it! Mine to Protect is the first book I've read by Emily A Myers and I wasn't sure what to expect. What I got was an emotional charged read that was heavy on both the storyline as well as the character development. I am constantly looking for the mafia/FBI trope and this one did not disappoint with tons of tension and twists and turns. This story was a super slow burn and while I did feel it meandered a bit in spots, it definitely held my attention to the end.
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
November 1, 2022
Alister (Yes, THE Alister from Bound By the Unspeakable) the man you love to hate and Ariana the woman who needs answers, leads this bloody brilliant book.
You read through the eyes of both characters as they deal with ongoing mafia life, FBI troubles and chemistry that is so forbidden, that it makes everything so much more dangerous.
Ahhhh, Alister, I adore him, I did from Bound and I'm totally in awe of him now, was he everything I wanted him to be? Yes he was. His character has so many faces, but there is just one you want to shine through.
Ariana, well from being a lady who wants to know what happened to her Mother, to a dark past she has now uncovered and I did not see coming.
This book has drama, tension, backstabbing, steam, emotion, its one hell of a read, I devoured it. I have said this before and I will say it again, Emily is my CoHo, I will forever read what she writes. Obsessed.
You read through the eyes of both characters as they deal with ongoing mafia life, FBI troubles and chemistry that is so forbidden, that it makes everything so much more dangerous.
Ahhhh, Alister, I adore him, I did from Bound and I'm totally in awe of him now, was he everything I wanted him to be? Yes he was. His character has so many faces, but there is just one you want to shine through.
Ariana, well from being a lady who wants to know what happened to her Mother, to a dark past she has now uncovered and I did not see coming.
This book has drama, tension, backstabbing, steam, emotion, its one hell of a read, I devoured it. I have said this before and I will say it again, Emily is my CoHo, I will forever read what she writes. Obsessed.
November 2, 2022
I loved this one. Don't get me wrong I liked the unspeakable duology, but I loved this more!
This is such a slow burner to start with and it picks up the pace the more you read on.
I love Alister and Arianna, both as stubborn as each other and the two of them together 😍
This mafia story has secrets being uncovered and family revelations that just made me keep reading.
Both Alister and Ari have stuff to sort out. Both of them are looking for answers and both of them learn things about themselves along the course of their little "partnership". But it's not long before things start to get dangerous and lives are at stake and decisions have to be made.
This is such a slow burner to start with and it picks up the pace the more you read on.
I love Alister and Arianna, both as stubborn as each other and the two of them together 😍
This mafia story has secrets being uncovered and family revelations that just made me keep reading.
Both Alister and Ari have stuff to sort out. Both of them are looking for answers and both of them learn things about themselves along the course of their little "partnership". But it's not long before things start to get dangerous and lives are at stake and decisions have to be made.
May 18, 2024
Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice - 🌶
Trope - mafia romance, forbidden love, heartbreak and loss, Mafia boss × FBI agent, shared trauma, plot over spice, slow burn, slight enemies to lovers, touch her & die, family is everything, dual pov, HFN
TW-mention and slight depiction of rape, past trauma
This book was a package with drama, tension, backstabbing, steam, and emotion. It was one hell of a read, I devoured it.
FBI agent FMC who rides a bike, HOTT! Ariana was so fierce and strong and challenged every obstacle thrown in her way. I loved how persistent she was to know the truth and did everything she could to receive help from Alister. I can only try to fathom how Ariana felt when her mom went through hell in front of her. That shit can be traumatizing and it certainly had severe effects on Ariana.
This book was hard to read. I've read multiple dark romances yet every time rape is mentioned it creeps into my soul. It was hard to see how women suffer for something men can't control to have. Every woman in the book who endured the pain was an innocent bystander who suffered because of their association or men who failed to protect them.
I knew there was something about Ariana that wasn't clear and yet the suspense and revelation was well plotted. I was bewildered by the plot twist.
I liked how the author focused more on the story and plot than spice. Regardless of how intertwined and complicated their past was, I loved how the characters had this great chemistry and understood each other with fewer words. They connected on trauma, they couldn't be any more different and alike at the same time. The shared trauma was touching and well written. I loved how their love felt beyond lust or attraction, Ariana and Alister were two tortured souls who were ready to sacrifice to protect one another, and that speaks volumes. Initially, I wanted banter and fight because what else do I expect from a Mafia boss and FBI agent, but I liked how the author handled their storyline with minimal but enough drama.
Both the characters wanted a normal and happy life, yet their life was anything but that. When Alister cried over the truth of their relationship, it was at that moment you see how even a man who's claimed to be ruthless, can feel beyond what he's taught to. I loved how the author highlighted Alister's trauma and emotions throughout the book, just because he was the Blood King she didn't neglect his feelings and make him sound cold-blooded. He was harsh on his enemies but when you look closely, you see a loving boy/man forced into the mafia world without any desire to stay.
I cried my eyes out seeing Cara's soul leave in peace after receiving the justice she deserved for all she endured. That girl didn't deserve what she got, and neither did Ariana and Valentina.
Sophia and Alister's bond was unlike any Mafia sibling I've read, usually, these siblings are supposed to be distant or bitter but I liked how they were close and had each other's back. They felt like siblings with real unproblematic life when it was anything but that. Sophia getting a happy life Cara missed gave me happy tears. Cassio and Gio's characters were surprisingly well-developed, their bond and loyalty to Alister after all he went through, soothed my heart.
I loved how in this book unlike most books it wasn't the women who sacrificed, and the grand gesture by Alister to protect her and their future made me swoon. The last few chapters have a summary of their life where they are still figuring things out, but I wanted a bit more about and with them. Usually, these chapters focus on a couple's relationship transition, and the lack of it in this book made me slightly disappointed.
The ending was beautiful, however I needed a proper epilogue with a glimpse of their new life together away from the Mafia world. I didn't believe that the book was done without a proper finale.I needed more Alister and Ariana time, and not just a hug and promise of HEA. The lack of closure lost this book a chance of getting a 5-star from me.
Overall 4/5
Spice - 🌶
Trope - mafia romance, forbidden love, heartbreak and loss, Mafia boss × FBI agent, shared trauma, plot over spice, slow burn, slight enemies to lovers, touch her & die, family is everything, dual pov, HFN
TW-mention and slight depiction of rape, past trauma
This book was a package with drama, tension, backstabbing, steam, and emotion. It was one hell of a read, I devoured it.
FBI agent FMC who rides a bike, HOTT! Ariana was so fierce and strong and challenged every obstacle thrown in her way. I loved how persistent she was to know the truth and did everything she could to receive help from Alister. I can only try to fathom how Ariana felt when her mom went through hell in front of her. That shit can be traumatizing and it certainly had severe effects on Ariana.
This book was hard to read. I've read multiple dark romances yet every time rape is mentioned it creeps into my soul. It was hard to see how women suffer for something men can't control to have. Every woman in the book who endured the pain was an innocent bystander who suffered because of their association or men who failed to protect them.
I knew there was something about Ariana that wasn't clear and yet the suspense and revelation was well plotted. I was bewildered by the plot twist.
I liked how the author focused more on the story and plot than spice. Regardless of how intertwined and complicated their past was, I loved how the characters had this great chemistry and understood each other with fewer words. They connected on trauma, they couldn't be any more different and alike at the same time. The shared trauma was touching and well written. I loved how their love felt beyond lust or attraction, Ariana and Alister were two tortured souls who were ready to sacrifice to protect one another, and that speaks volumes. Initially, I wanted banter and fight because what else do I expect from a Mafia boss and FBI agent, but I liked how the author handled their storyline with minimal but enough drama.
Both the characters wanted a normal and happy life, yet their life was anything but that. When Alister cried over the truth of their relationship, it was at that moment you see how even a man who's claimed to be ruthless, can feel beyond what he's taught to. I loved how the author highlighted Alister's trauma and emotions throughout the book, just because he was the Blood King she didn't neglect his feelings and make him sound cold-blooded. He was harsh on his enemies but when you look closely, you see a loving boy/man forced into the mafia world without any desire to stay.
I cried my eyes out seeing Cara's soul leave in peace after receiving the justice she deserved for all she endured. That girl didn't deserve what she got, and neither did Ariana and Valentina.
Sophia and Alister's bond was unlike any Mafia sibling I've read, usually, these siblings are supposed to be distant or bitter but I liked how they were close and had each other's back. They felt like siblings with real unproblematic life when it was anything but that. Sophia getting a happy life Cara missed gave me happy tears. Cassio and Gio's characters were surprisingly well-developed, their bond and loyalty to Alister after all he went through, soothed my heart.
I loved how in this book unlike most books it wasn't the women who sacrificed, and the grand gesture by Alister to protect her and their future made me swoon. The last few chapters have a summary of their life where they are still figuring things out, but I wanted a bit more about and with them. Usually, these chapters focus on a couple's relationship transition, and the lack of it in this book made me slightly disappointed.
The ending was beautiful, however I needed a proper epilogue with a glimpse of their new life together away from the Mafia world. I didn't believe that the book was done without a proper finale.I needed more Alister and Ariana time, and not just a hug and promise of HEA. The lack of closure lost this book a chance of getting a 5-star from me.
Overall 4/5
November 30, 2022
Mine to Protect was a very pleasantly surprising book for me to read. This is my first time reading a book by Emily A. Myers and I was definitely blown away. While Mine to Protect is a mafia romance I want to preface this by saying it is very different from any other mafia romance I have read, in a good way. At this point I have read many mafia romances so I usually know what to expect but in this book I was constantly surprised by the events that took place during this book. Arianna and Alister are our main couple in this book, Arianna is an FBI agent who has been through a lot in her life, while Alister is the blood king of New Orleans who has also seen too much pain in his life. Both characters could not be more different yet alike at once. Arianna and Alister are able to connect through their pains and sorrows and throughout their story you see more of how they connect as people than just the romantic part of their relationship in fact Arianna and Alister grow to care about each other deeply but know that they can never be together, which makes for a story full of ups and downs. A lot of tragic events take place during this story but they only add to Alister and Arianna's bond. I highly recommend reading this book I enjoyed every second of reading it.
April 15, 2024
Don't ask me how I managed to finish this. I really don't think this book was for me.
It had only 5% romance, and that too with no chemistry and no buildup.
The FMC wasn't great but still far better and stronger than the MMC, who was just plain scared. What mafia king is scared? I just don't get it.
The writing was too draggy and too boring. It would have taken me ages had I actually not skimmed through half of it.
It had only 5% romance, and that too with no chemistry and no buildup.
The FMC wasn't great but still far better and stronger than the MMC, who was just plain scared. What mafia king is scared? I just don't get it.
The writing was too draggy and too boring. It would have taken me ages had I actually not skimmed through half of it.
December 1, 2022
"Our love would be the death of us just as much as it would give us life."
"One simple moment with you is better than a million without you "
"Give me tonight, Alister. If the world cannot bear witness to our love, than love me in the dark without inhibitions."
I have two dozen more highlighted quotes that broke me while reading my most anticipated book of 2022, Mine To Protect by the astounding talented author Emily A. Myers.
Alister is the king of the Mafia; overseeing other families from New Orleans to Miami. He demands respect and loyalty but he has many enemies. It isn't a world he chose but was born into and his brutality is from witnessing his mother's murder and the death of his youngest sister after being repeatedly raped by The Brotherhood.
Ariana is an FBI agent assigned to deal with the massacre of human traffickers. She's shocked to see mutilated bodies with a symbol carved into them. She hasn't seen it in 18 years since her mother's murder. The symbol was the only thing left on her. Now she finally knows the truth; Alister Amato's family is responsible for the death of her mother.
How Alister and Ariana meet, go from distrust to trust, hate to love is nothing short of brilliant storytelling. I never felt so tense reading a romance suspense. I never rooted for forbidden love with such hope. I never read such a sensual love scene in any other book. When Alister gives Ariana that one night they both crave it ignites a 5 alarm slow burn night of lovemaking. It's not smut; it's love from two people who have lived nothing but violent trauma, not trusting anyone, always alone in their need to protect others. Now who will protect them and their hearts? With heart stopping twists, anxiety driven action and a love story that conquers all, this is the book I will protect.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
"One simple moment with you is better than a million without you "
"Give me tonight, Alister. If the world cannot bear witness to our love, than love me in the dark without inhibitions."
I have two dozen more highlighted quotes that broke me while reading my most anticipated book of 2022, Mine To Protect by the astounding talented author Emily A. Myers.
Alister is the king of the Mafia; overseeing other families from New Orleans to Miami. He demands respect and loyalty but he has many enemies. It isn't a world he chose but was born into and his brutality is from witnessing his mother's murder and the death of his youngest sister after being repeatedly raped by The Brotherhood.
Ariana is an FBI agent assigned to deal with the massacre of human traffickers. She's shocked to see mutilated bodies with a symbol carved into them. She hasn't seen it in 18 years since her mother's murder. The symbol was the only thing left on her. Now she finally knows the truth; Alister Amato's family is responsible for the death of her mother.
How Alister and Ariana meet, go from distrust to trust, hate to love is nothing short of brilliant storytelling. I never felt so tense reading a romance suspense. I never rooted for forbidden love with such hope. I never read such a sensual love scene in any other book. When Alister gives Ariana that one night they both crave it ignites a 5 alarm slow burn night of lovemaking. It's not smut; it's love from two people who have lived nothing but violent trauma, not trusting anyone, always alone in their need to protect others. Now who will protect them and their hearts? With heart stopping twists, anxiety driven action and a love story that conquers all, this is the book I will protect.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 7, 2022
I devoured this book last week, and it took me some time to get over the fact that Emily A. Myers is a new to me author as her writing is right up my dark alley which has me scratching my head trying to figure out how I didn't know about her until Mine to Protect. Alister Amato is a rich, powerful mafia man known as the Blood King, so he was darkly delicious in my eyes (LOL). What the mafia world doesn't know is he feels like a prisoner in this role, as he's lost a lot. Ariana is part of the Organized Crime Task Force who has her own dark past, and she's called to investigate a slaughter of a rival syndicate which brings her across Alister's path. The sparks are flying like crazy, however it's very much a slow burn story, but fear not, despite the fact that I'm all about some HEAT, there's so much other goodness that had me not even noticing it. See, there are so many twists coming in hot that my head was spinning, betrayals for days, action of course, and secrets that are coming to light which kept me on the edge of my seat turning pages like a crazy person so yeah, this story is UTTERLY FANTASTIC! I will be reading all this author's previous work immediately and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
November 9, 2022
Firstly NEW BOOK BOYFRIEND ALERT - what is it about fictional moody mafia men ..... its just something about them.... its their anger.... their protetiveness ... just urgh
.
This is the first book I read from this author and I can now say this won't be the last. I read it in one day! One day! I loved it! The story had so many twists and turns and the plot.... 😏😏😏...... so good !!
.
This is the first book I read from this author and I can now say this won't be the last. I read it in one day! One day! I loved it! The story had so many twists and turns and the plot.... 😏😏😏...... so good !!
November 27, 2022
Oh my goodness!! I am obsessed with this book!
I love a good mafia slowburn book as much as the next guy! I loved this one!
Alister is so protective of his family and I loved that! I really liked his and Ariana’s love story!
Emily did so good and keeping the mystery and the suspense going throughout the book I was sitting on the edge of my seat!!
5/5⭐️
I love a good mafia slowburn book as much as the next guy! I loved this one!
Alister is so protective of his family and I loved that! I really liked his and Ariana’s love story!
Emily did so good and keeping the mystery and the suspense going throughout the book I was sitting on the edge of my seat!!
5/5⭐️
December 1, 2022
First read from this author and loved it!
🖤Mafia
💛Slow Burn
🧡Forbidden love
🖤Enemies to Lovers
💛Touch her a die
🧡Some spice
🖤Mafia
💛Slow Burn
🧡Forbidden love
🖤Enemies to Lovers
💛Touch her a die
🧡Some spice
July 10, 2024
It’s so beautiful and so perfect. But kinda sad because i wanted to see there kid. But i didn’t enjoy less. I read a best book with a good plot after a long time.
November 14, 2023
Really enjoyed this book!
Mafia boss and an FBI agent, the forbidden love was just too good! low spice, the tension between the main characters were good. It’s different from other mafia romance books I’ve read because the MMC really didn’t like the life of being the blood king in the mafia world. He was settled into the life he didn’t want and was ok with never finding love because love is a weakness but he couldn’t help but fall in love with Ariana, the stubborn FBI agent determined to find her mothers killer.
It was emotional for sure, I cried for everything both Ariana and Alistar had to go through especially Ariana.
I do wish there was a longer ending after they reunite, I wish we got a glimpse of their future, maybe of them settling down, getting married and having kids.
Mafia boss and an FBI agent, the forbidden love was just too good! low spice, the tension between the main characters were good. It’s different from other mafia romance books I’ve read because the MMC really didn’t like the life of being the blood king in the mafia world. He was settled into the life he didn’t want and was ok with never finding love because love is a weakness but he couldn’t help but fall in love with Ariana, the stubborn FBI agent determined to find her mothers killer.
It was emotional for sure, I cried for everything both Ariana and Alistar had to go through especially Ariana.
I do wish there was a longer ending after they reunite, I wish we got a glimpse of their future, maybe of them settling down, getting married and having kids.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2025
This book made me cry. If i cried then it was good.
Stopp tho why was he so sweet😭😭😭
Like stop my heart!!!!
Shes so feisty and sarcastic oml
They were so good for eachother I loved it sm and couldn't imagine them not being together.
Stopp tho why was he so sweet😭😭😭
Like stop my heart!!!!
Shes so feisty and sarcastic oml
They were so good for eachother I loved it sm and couldn't imagine them not being together.
September 9, 2022
The book was definitely out of my comfort zone in some ways. It is due out at the beginning of December, and while with the author's other books I was one of the bloggers who received an advance copy (ARC), this time I was one of the beta readers. I am very glad that I was able to read the book months earlier, but the responsibility was also great because I had to criticize a book that I was looking forward to. I rarely read books related to the underworld and the mafia. However, here I was impressed by the author's style. The book takes us to New Orleans, where Alister Amato is the leader of the city's mafia families. Ariana is an FBI agent. I think it's clear that the two will clash and that we're in for a pretty dramatic, but also passionate love story.
I won't lie, I really enjoyed the book. I won't talk about the things I didn't like because I gave them as feedback to the author and I don't know if they will make it into the book in the end. Anyway, there were a couple of things that I don't consider all that important in the end. Instead, I'll tell you why I liked the book. I am familiar with the "world" in which the action takes place because Alister was a large part of the plot of the author's second book "Bound by the Unspeakable things". However, the book can also be read independently. The descriptions of the city are magical and mystical, just as I imagine New Orleans to be. Scenes involving violence such as fighting and shooting were not many, nor were they overly graphic. There were quite important topics touched upon such as violence against minors, the life of children without parents, loss of loved ones, as well as the important choices we make in our lives. The action is engaging and dynamic.
But, the thing that excited me the most was the love story between Ariana and Alistair. I liked his character even in the previous book and I was very happy when I found out that there will be a whole one dedicated to him. He's the bad boy, but he actually has a soft side. He is also smart, strong, hot-tempered, but in his heart there is room for love. I loved how brave Ariana was after everything she's been through. She is stubborn, has a good heart and an infectious sense of humor. I liked that their love affair was slowly built and I was looking forward to seeing if they would end up together. Interestingly, the book has the longest intimate scene I've ever read, but every word was in place. I will miss Alister. I would definitely read more books with him as the main character. The book comes out on 01.12., and I challenge you to get out of your comfort zone with it!
I won't lie, I really enjoyed the book. I won't talk about the things I didn't like because I gave them as feedback to the author and I don't know if they will make it into the book in the end. Anyway, there were a couple of things that I don't consider all that important in the end. Instead, I'll tell you why I liked the book. I am familiar with the "world" in which the action takes place because Alister was a large part of the plot of the author's second book "Bound by the Unspeakable things". However, the book can also be read independently. The descriptions of the city are magical and mystical, just as I imagine New Orleans to be. Scenes involving violence such as fighting and shooting were not many, nor were they overly graphic. There were quite important topics touched upon such as violence against minors, the life of children without parents, loss of loved ones, as well as the important choices we make in our lives. The action is engaging and dynamic.
But, the thing that excited me the most was the love story between Ariana and Alistair. I liked his character even in the previous book and I was very happy when I found out that there will be a whole one dedicated to him. He's the bad boy, but he actually has a soft side. He is also smart, strong, hot-tempered, but in his heart there is room for love. I loved how brave Ariana was after everything she's been through. She is stubborn, has a good heart and an infectious sense of humor. I liked that their love affair was slowly built and I was looking forward to seeing if they would end up together. Interestingly, the book has the longest intimate scene I've ever read, but every word was in place. I will miss Alister. I would definitely read more books with him as the main character. The book comes out on 01.12., and I challenge you to get out of your comfort zone with it!
December 1, 2022
!! SPOILER FREE !!
Ok so this was my first ever ARC read as well as my first
book by Emily A. Myers.
This book was definitely different to the type of mafia
books I normally would read. If you looking for plot over
smut and a book that has a great sensual slow burn then
this is a good one to consider. 'Mine To Protect' is written
in dual POV which is something I personally love to see, it
gives you a great insight on both the characters thoughts
and views on their past and present.
The characters were both amazing, you have Alister whose
a hot, swoon worthy Italian mafia boss known as the Blood
King and Ariana whose a vulnerable yet fiery and
independent woman that works for an Organised crime
task force (FBI). This book is filled with drama, steam,
tension and emotion. It captures all the forbidden
chemistry as well as the troubles the characters face along
the way. All in all a mafia/FBI romance wouldn't normally be
something I'd typically read however this book was
definitely worth having a look into.
Ok so this was my first ever ARC read as well as my first
book by Emily A. Myers.
This book was definitely different to the type of mafia
books I normally would read. If you looking for plot over
smut and a book that has a great sensual slow burn then
this is a good one to consider. 'Mine To Protect' is written
in dual POV which is something I personally love to see, it
gives you a great insight on both the characters thoughts
and views on their past and present.
The characters were both amazing, you have Alister whose
a hot, swoon worthy Italian mafia boss known as the Blood
King and Ariana whose a vulnerable yet fiery and
independent woman that works for an Organised crime
task force (FBI). This book is filled with drama, steam,
tension and emotion. It captures all the forbidden
chemistry as well as the troubles the characters face along
the way. All in all a mafia/FBI romance wouldn't normally be
something I'd typically read however this book was
definitely worth having a look into.
September 19, 2025
Alister Amato is the young, handsome, and dangerous Italian mafia boss of New Orleans - the Blood King. Ariana Valentine is an FBI agent on the Organized Crime Task Force. While investigating a bloodbath crime scene executed by Alister, she discovers a similarity between these murders and that of her mother eighteen years earlier. Ariana's quest for answers leads her deep into the crime syndicate of New Orleans. Although from different backgrounds, Ariana and Alister soon realize that they have a lot more in common than they thought.
I could not put this book down - Alister is totally swoon worthy! This was a super slow burn (which I absolutely love) with a tiny little steamy scene. There was also a nice bit of action and intersting twists throughout. Unlike many similar stories, the author did a great job of showing the vulnerabilities and growth in both characters. I really enjoyed the alternating viewpoints - really reinforced the contrasting characters backgrounds and their thought processes throughout the story.
I could not put this book down - Alister is totally swoon worthy! This was a super slow burn (which I absolutely love) with a tiny little steamy scene. There was also a nice bit of action and intersting twists throughout. Unlike many similar stories, the author did a great job of showing the vulnerabilities and growth in both characters. I really enjoyed the alternating viewpoints - really reinforced the contrasting characters backgrounds and their thought processes throughout the story.
November 27, 2022
A couple of days ago was my turn on Mine to Protect by Emily A. Myers blog tour organised by instabooktours. I’m so g he happy that I took part on this tour as I really liked this thrilling novel. I read this dark and mysterious mafia novel as an ebook for this blog tour. I loved this novel about FBI agent who falls in love with a mob boss, The Blood King if New Orleans. I loved the romantic element of this story, as well as the family secrets and rivalries in this novel. It was an exciting, emotional and entertaining read. Throughout this novel I was wishing that the main characters will find love and be able to stay together.
Right from the start, this novel gripped my interest and attention. I stayed up late into the night reading this novel, as I wanted to find out what the ending was. This novel was simply unputdownable. I loved the character development and the author’s writing style. Although this novel is first one by the author which I’ve read, I’m definitely adding this author to my to-read-list and I’m look forward to reading more by the author in the future.
I loved reading this novel and I’m giving it 5 stars as I know other readers will enjoy it too.
Right from the start, this novel gripped my interest and attention. I stayed up late into the night reading this novel, as I wanted to find out what the ending was. This novel was simply unputdownable. I loved the character development and the author’s writing style. Although this novel is first one by the author which I’ve read, I’m definitely adding this author to my to-read-list and I’m look forward to reading more by the author in the future.
I loved reading this novel and I’m giving it 5 stars as I know other readers will enjoy it too.
December 4, 2022
4.5 stars
Mine to Protect is an intense, slow-burn Mafia romance, with a complex and suspenseful plot that grips you from the first page.
Alister Amato - known as The Blood King is a reluctant heir to the ruling Mafia family in New Orleans. He’s seen his mother murdered and his sister trafficked and killed - and after the untimely death of his father, Alister is now the family’s leader.
Ariana Valentine is a complicated and emotionally scarred FBI Agent, with a grievance against the Amato family, and thus, against Alister. She manages to inveigle her way into a friendship with Alister’s remaining sister, Sophia.
Ariana is determined to force Alister’s hand into helping her investigate her mother’s death, 18 years ago. And Alister is determined to resist the charms of the fiercely independent and astute, Ariana.
I felt thoroughly invested in Alister & Ariana’s story, and I savoured every carefully crafted detail. There’s not a huge amount of spice in this book, but the all-consuming plot certainly made up for its absence. I’ll definitely check out more of Emily’s work, if this is the quality of storytelling I’m to expect.
Mine to Protect is an intense, slow-burn Mafia romance, with a complex and suspenseful plot that grips you from the first page.
Alister Amato - known as The Blood King is a reluctant heir to the ruling Mafia family in New Orleans. He’s seen his mother murdered and his sister trafficked and killed - and after the untimely death of his father, Alister is now the family’s leader.
Ariana Valentine is a complicated and emotionally scarred FBI Agent, with a grievance against the Amato family, and thus, against Alister. She manages to inveigle her way into a friendship with Alister’s remaining sister, Sophia.
Ariana is determined to force Alister’s hand into helping her investigate her mother’s death, 18 years ago. And Alister is determined to resist the charms of the fiercely independent and astute, Ariana.
I felt thoroughly invested in Alister & Ariana’s story, and I savoured every carefully crafted detail. There’s not a huge amount of spice in this book, but the all-consuming plot certainly made up for its absence. I’ll definitely check out more of Emily’s work, if this is the quality of storytelling I’m to expect.
November 22, 2023
"From wrestling to cooking to dancing to just talking- one simple moment with you is better than a million without you."
MINE TO PROTECT BY EMILY A. Myers
Rating: 3.75 stars
Spice: 1
TROPES: Mafia Romance
Enemies to lovers
Mystery
Romantic Suspense
Wow! This book was a freaking rollercoaster of emotions. I enjoyed it so much. It had such a fresh point of view when it comes to a mafia romance. It doesn't glorify that world but shows the kind of emotional impact it has on a person living a lifestyle like this. It was not something I anticipated when I started this book. I was hoping for a typical mafia romance but it gave me something entirely different and I'm glad I enjoyed it.
I loved the plotline and the mystery behind Ariana's mother and Allister's sister's death. My heart broke for Allister and Ariana and the pain they had to go through losing their loved ones. Their feelings can be felt through the author's writing and it made my heart hurt.
I loved how our male character Allister was so vulnerable and honest with his feelings all the time.
Unlike any mafia man I've read about. Ariana and Allister's relationship was based more on their emotional connection and after such a long time I read a book like this. It's a slow burn but worth it. I adore them as a couple.
Here are a few things that I wanted to point out:
Initially, in the start, I was having trouble getting into the book though after that the story picked up and I was hooked on it.
At times I felt that it was too repetitive and at times it felt like the story dragged a lot.
Also, the ending felt rushed. I kinda wanted Alister to grovel more.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed it.
Also, this book is more plot-oriented and the romance takes a back seat. so if you're looking for a read like this, then this book is perfect for you.
MINE TO PROTECT BY EMILY A. Myers
Rating: 3.75 stars
Spice: 1
TROPES: Mafia Romance
Enemies to lovers
Mystery
Romantic Suspense
Wow! This book was a freaking rollercoaster of emotions. I enjoyed it so much. It had such a fresh point of view when it comes to a mafia romance. It doesn't glorify that world but shows the kind of emotional impact it has on a person living a lifestyle like this. It was not something I anticipated when I started this book. I was hoping for a typical mafia romance but it gave me something entirely different and I'm glad I enjoyed it.
I loved the plotline and the mystery behind Ariana's mother and Allister's sister's death. My heart broke for Allister and Ariana and the pain they had to go through losing their loved ones. Their feelings can be felt through the author's writing and it made my heart hurt.
I loved how our male character Allister was so vulnerable and honest with his feelings all the time.
Unlike any mafia man I've read about. Ariana and Allister's relationship was based more on their emotional connection and after such a long time I read a book like this. It's a slow burn but worth it. I adore them as a couple.
Here are a few things that I wanted to point out:
Initially, in the start, I was having trouble getting into the book though after that the story picked up and I was hooked on it.
At times I felt that it was too repetitive and at times it felt like the story dragged a lot.
Also, the ending felt rushed. I kinda wanted Alister to grovel more.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed it.
Also, this book is more plot-oriented and the romance takes a back seat. so if you're looking for a read like this, then this book is perfect for you.
November 30, 2022
This is my first book by Emily Myers, so I went in with an open mind. I must say I loved every minute of this book!
A standalone mafia dark romance story that's told from two perspectives Alister and Ariana. Alister a Mafia boss known as the Blood King and Ariana a FBI agent. He is a sexy Italian man and dangerous. Ariana is determined to do her job....as well as sort her own issues out.
A slow burner to begin with but don't worry it doesn't stay that way, oh no! The pace picks up soon enough. It does get dark and the twists are so cleverly placed within the story that I didn't see them coming.
The dual perspectives gave me the opportunity to get to know both Alister and Ariana. I enjoyed discovering their pasts and their individual secrets.
A great dark mafia romance with enough chemistry to blow a laboratory up! With plenty of tension, danger and twists to keep me turning those pages. I will definitely be chasing more of Emily Myers books up.
Thanks to Love Books Tours and Emily Myers for having me along on the your and the copy of the book.
A standalone mafia dark romance story that's told from two perspectives Alister and Ariana. Alister a Mafia boss known as the Blood King and Ariana a FBI agent. He is a sexy Italian man and dangerous. Ariana is determined to do her job....as well as sort her own issues out.
A slow burner to begin with but don't worry it doesn't stay that way, oh no! The pace picks up soon enough. It does get dark and the twists are so cleverly placed within the story that I didn't see them coming.
The dual perspectives gave me the opportunity to get to know both Alister and Ariana. I enjoyed discovering their pasts and their individual secrets.
A great dark mafia romance with enough chemistry to blow a laboratory up! With plenty of tension, danger and twists to keep me turning those pages. I will definitely be chasing more of Emily Myers books up.
Thanks to Love Books Tours and Emily Myers for having me along on the your and the copy of the book.
December 3, 2022
Chasing Shackled Freedom
The Amatos, the gatekeepers of the criminal underworld stretching from the Texas border all the way to the Florida Keys. Alister Amati, The Blood King of New Orleans, a mafia boss with a lust for blood and an infinite reach. All in the name of avenging his sister's abduction and resultant death, Cara.
FBI Agent Ariana Valentine, bent on finding the truth behind her mother's brutal murder from her youth, she aligns herself with Alister.
As they move forward unearthing the truths they are left wondering when the secrets and betrayal will end. Or is there a future? Freedom?
I enjoyed how the author created a different style of Mafia storyline. The evolution behind the Amatos, Blood King of New Orleans, the integration of the FBI, and the brotherhood trafficking with it resultant destruction. Character depth for both Alister and Ariana drew me in with their crippling paranoia and haunted pasts. Their desperation to know the truth plus the secrets and twists rounded out this slow burn, forbidden mafia romance.
The Amatos, the gatekeepers of the criminal underworld stretching from the Texas border all the way to the Florida Keys. Alister Amati, The Blood King of New Orleans, a mafia boss with a lust for blood and an infinite reach. All in the name of avenging his sister's abduction and resultant death, Cara.
FBI Agent Ariana Valentine, bent on finding the truth behind her mother's brutal murder from her youth, she aligns herself with Alister.
As they move forward unearthing the truths they are left wondering when the secrets and betrayal will end. Or is there a future? Freedom?
I enjoyed how the author created a different style of Mafia storyline. The evolution behind the Amatos, Blood King of New Orleans, the integration of the FBI, and the brotherhood trafficking with it resultant destruction. Character depth for both Alister and Ariana drew me in with their crippling paranoia and haunted pasts. Their desperation to know the truth plus the secrets and twists rounded out this slow burn, forbidden mafia romance.
December 8, 2022
(Thank you Candi Kane PR and the author Emily A. Myers for the eARC in exchange for an honest review)
This is my first book from the author and I liked the themes of the book which made me apply for the ARC.
I liked the idea of two worlds coming together, especially with the emotions and loyalty that can’t be given up. I liked reading about their feelings, the dual perspectives helped this aspect.
Plot wise I felt that the development was a little slow even though it is advertised as a slow burn. I only continued reading because I was curious and I like reading mafia books, which is good even though I couldn’t connect with the characters. It felt like the romance was a subplot as compared to the mafia/fbi plotline.
A quick, standalone read for sure!
This is my first book from the author and I liked the themes of the book which made me apply for the ARC.
I liked the idea of two worlds coming together, especially with the emotions and loyalty that can’t be given up. I liked reading about their feelings, the dual perspectives helped this aspect.
Plot wise I felt that the development was a little slow even though it is advertised as a slow burn. I only continued reading because I was curious and I like reading mafia books, which is good even though I couldn’t connect with the characters. It felt like the romance was a subplot as compared to the mafia/fbi plotline.
A quick, standalone read for sure!
December 3, 2022
Alister Amato, Blood King of New Orleans hates his mafia life but it's up to him to carry out his family's legacy. So much blood has been spilled especially from the loss of his family.
Eighteen years later FBI Agent Ariana still wants nothing more than answers about the death of her mother. She feels the Amato family is behind her mother's execution. She befriends Sophia Amato to get closer to her brother.
As Alister and Ariana's journey begins they team up to find the truth of their family's murders which put them in danger.
Mine To Protect is an rollercoaster ride of emotions that will rip your heart to shreds.
You feel Alister and Ariana's hurt, pain, loss and betrayal. Alister's emotions and tears gutted me. Their love for one another helped them heal.
Eighteen years later FBI Agent Ariana still wants nothing more than answers about the death of her mother. She feels the Amato family is behind her mother's execution. She befriends Sophia Amato to get closer to her brother.
As Alister and Ariana's journey begins they team up to find the truth of their family's murders which put them in danger.
Mine To Protect is an rollercoaster ride of emotions that will rip your heart to shreds.
You feel Alister and Ariana's hurt, pain, loss and betrayal. Alister's emotions and tears gutted me. Their love for one another helped them heal.
December 2, 2022
Mine to Protect is the first book I've read from Emily A. Myers and it was really good. I love a good mafia romance and this one did not disappoint. I really liked the implementation of the FBI into this mafia romance, which is different compared to the other mafia stories I've read.
Alister and Ariana's story was really capturing. I was able to pick things up very quickly, even though I haven't read the other novels. I believe Alister is mentioned in previous books, so it was cool to see him get his own story. This is definitely an easy read as I devoured it in one sitting. The character development and plot was well developed and I especially loved the relationship between Ariana and Alister. It was passionate, steamy, stubborn, and a definite slow burn.
Alister and Ariana's story was really capturing. I was able to pick things up very quickly, even though I haven't read the other novels. I believe Alister is mentioned in previous books, so it was cool to see him get his own story. This is definitely an easy read as I devoured it in one sitting. The character development and plot was well developed and I especially loved the relationship between Ariana and Alister. It was passionate, steamy, stubborn, and a definite slow burn.
December 2, 2022
Wow, so many moments in this story. From the faceted characters to extreme situations and suspense build. Alister and Ariana, on opposite sides of the law, their shared grief and pain pull them together. With just a glance their world's tilted a little bit and that one moment showed a future, everything. Alister is ruthless but Ariana makes him soft, allowing him to let his walls down. Ariana is a tenacious survivor who wants to know the truth, if all of her pain was worth it in the end? Drama, backstabbing, shootouts, abuse, greed, vengeance and bright spots of love. So good.
December 5, 2022
Wow, so many moments in this story. From the faceted characters to extreme situations and suspense build. Alister and Ariana, on opposite sides of the law, their shared grief and pain pull them together. With just a glance their world's tilted a little bit and that one moment showed a future, everything. Alister is ruthless but Ariana makes him soft, allowing him to let his walls down. Ariana is a tenacious survivor who wants to know the truth, if all of her pain was worth it in the end? Drama, backstabbing, shootouts, abuse, greed, vengeance and bright spots of love. So good.
October 6, 2024
Authors need to stop saying the word ‘Mafia’ in their title to get people, like me, to read them, thinking it’s going to be a glorious book of blood shed and sexy scenes! The Blood King? Nothing in here refers to any blood happening 🙄 and he’s no hierarchy 🤦🏼♀️
Ariana…is a waste of the precious trees it took to write about her.
NO Mafia would ever do press conferences, especially outing who killed someone they knew…they’d handle that “in house.”
Therefore, two stars was VERY generous, the author should thank me😉
Ariana…is a waste of the precious trees it took to write about her.
NO Mafia would ever do press conferences, especially outing who killed someone they knew…they’d handle that “in house.”
Therefore, two stars was VERY generous, the author should thank me😉
November 8, 2022
I really love a good mafia romance ever since i did my family ancestry and found out my family originate from Sicilian mafia roots it has become a guilty pleasure. The chemistry between Alister and Arrianna is quite obvious from the beginning. Both suffering the loss of their mother at a young age gives them an unlikely bond and kinship. The mafia drama and action throughout kept me turning the pages way after the sun had gone down. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
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