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Madly Ever After #3
Sins That Define Us
My name might be Alice, and this sure as hell isn’t wonderland, but everyone is definitely a little mad here.
Promises were made, vows were spoken, and now it’s up to me to usher in a new era and generation of the Walsh Family.
We just need to rid the world of the man who called himself my father in order to do it.
But it’s not as easy as it seems. Not with hidden agendas and new chess pieces on the board. It’s one thing to stand in front of the world and call myself Kane Walsh’s wife—queen to his vast empire of death, but it’s quite another to act on that power without proof I can be as ruthless as the four men who love me.
Revenge is close enough that I can taste it, and it will be sweet.
And all I can really hope for is that all four men will be by my side when all is said and done. After all, what would the new queen be without her knights in blood-stained armor?
The Sins That Define Us is the third and final book in an MFMMM, modern mafia fairy tale trilogy that tells the story of how heroes and villains might not always be what they seem. It features spicy MF, MMMMF, and MM scenes, and ends in a Happily Ever After.
Promises were made, vows were spoken, and now it’s up to me to usher in a new era and generation of the Walsh Family.
We just need to rid the world of the man who called himself my father in order to do it.
But it’s not as easy as it seems. Not with hidden agendas and new chess pieces on the board. It’s one thing to stand in front of the world and call myself Kane Walsh’s wife—queen to his vast empire of death, but it’s quite another to act on that power without proof I can be as ruthless as the four men who love me.
Revenge is close enough that I can taste it, and it will be sweet.
And all I can really hope for is that all four men will be by my side when all is said and done. After all, what would the new queen be without her knights in blood-stained armor?
The Sins That Define Us is the third and final book in an MFMMM, modern mafia fairy tale trilogy that tells the story of how heroes and villains might not always be what they seem. It features spicy MF, MMMMF, and MM scenes, and ends in a Happily Ever After.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 8, 2023
13 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Lindsey
142 books1,398 followersE.M. Lindsey is the author of MM contemporary romance. She presently lives and works in the southeastern United States.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
January 11, 2023
*** This book is the last in the Madly Ever After series and cannot be read as a standalone ***
EM Lindsey ends their newest series with an amazing book—not only do we get more insight into James, Phoenix, Ariel, Kane, and Alice's relationship, but we also, finally, learn who has been betraying them—and I did NOT see the culprit coming.
We also get to see the more ruthless side of all five Misfits and while it's messy and bloody, it's incredibly satisfying to see how each one complements the other and how well they fit together. Alice's journey throughout the three books was perfect, and seeing how each one of the Misfits gave a part of themselves to her was an especially wonderful part of the book.
Their HEA was hard-won and was never easy—but that last chapter!? Man, it had me crying (happy tears) and smiling like an idiot.
I really, really wish we could have just one more epilogue—a few years in the future—to see just how happy this special family of Misfits is with each other and their child.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
EM Lindsey ends their newest series with an amazing book—not only do we get more insight into James, Phoenix, Ariel, Kane, and Alice's relationship, but we also, finally, learn who has been betraying them—and I did NOT see the culprit coming.
We also get to see the more ruthless side of all five Misfits and while it's messy and bloody, it's incredibly satisfying to see how each one complements the other and how well they fit together. Alice's journey throughout the three books was perfect, and seeing how each one of the Misfits gave a part of themselves to her was an especially wonderful part of the book.
Their HEA was hard-won and was never easy—but that last chapter!? Man, it had me crying (happy tears) and smiling like an idiot.
I really, really wish we could have just one more epilogue—a few years in the future—to see just how happy this special family of Misfits is with each other and their child.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
January 14, 2023
You must read this book after the first two in the series, or you'll be completely lost. I picked this one up immediately after finishing The Sins that Bind us (thanks GRR Reviews!) thinking to read just a couple of chapters since it was already 1 am, but I couldn't put it down until I finished.
The story comes together with a bang and everything is tied up as neatly as I hoped it would be. Of the three, this has the most ménage action in it, and it's HOT.
I fell in love with these characters, and I really didn't want the book to end. They're dark, violent, plenty of bloodletting, but I'm all about the characters "I will burn the world down for you" attitude toward each other. I'd love to read more in this universe.
The story comes together with a bang and everything is tied up as neatly as I hoped it would be. Of the three, this has the most ménage action in it, and it's HOT.
I fell in love with these characters, and I really didn't want the book to end. They're dark, violent, plenty of bloodletting, but I'm all about the characters "I will burn the world down for you" attitude toward each other. I'd love to read more in this universe.
February 8, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Sins That Define Us is the third book in the Madly Ever After trilogy and the books follow one another in one long story. This review will have some spoilers for events that happened earlier in the series.
Check out my review of the first book, Sins That Find Us, for a spoiler-free review to kick off the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Sins That Define Us is the third book in the Madly Ever After trilogy and the books follow one another in one long story. This review will have some spoilers for events that happened earlier in the series.
Check out my review of the first book, Sins That Find Us, for a spoiler-free review to kick off the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
January 22, 2023
Alice, Kane, Ari, Phoenix, and James know the enemy, but is there another enemy or traitor closer to them. There are a lot of twists and turns and secrets that get revealed. The Misfits keep fighting for the revenge their enemies deserve. Great characters and storyline. Highly recommended. Amazing book. This book had excellent ending. The character growth for Alice and the misfits was incredible. Love these characters. Check your triggers warnings and this is the final book Enjoy
February 13, 2023
Family Is Everything
This was the perfect ending to a great series. A dark romance where the villains get their revenge and a HEA. Kane, Phoenix, James and Ariel were content with their lives until the day they kidnapped Alice.
This group has been through some uphill battles. Secrets reveals, Betrayal at hand and Fear of the unknown is what fueled their nightmares but the family they created by adding Alice in the midst was definitely a life and love worth fighting for.
This was the perfect ending to a great series. A dark romance where the villains get their revenge and a HEA. Kane, Phoenix, James and Ariel were content with their lives until the day they kidnapped Alice.
This group has been through some uphill battles. Secrets reveals, Betrayal at hand and Fear of the unknown is what fueled their nightmares but the family they created by adding Alice in the midst was definitely a life and love worth fighting for.
February 20, 2023
Glad they got their HEA but wanted a bit more
After being a little disappointed with the second book, I expected better things this time round. It was okay and they got their HEA, but there was a lot of sex, a lot of Alice being tired and sick, and not enough actual blood and violence for a story about warring factions fighting to the death.
The interactions between Kane, Phoenix, Ari and James were my favourite bits of the book. Their connections were real and vital, knowing each other intimately, loving each other, ready to do whatever it takes, even die for each other.
Alice did come into her own eventually but it was all muted. E.M. wrote her as their missing piece but I didn't feel they were lacking a woman to make them whole. They loved her but if she'd never existed, they would have been just as happy together, based on what I read.
I was completely satisfied with how the feud finished, especially in Ari's playroom, but I could have stood more blood and guts because I think the story deserved it. All in all, not a bad series with four men who fascinated me, and Phoenix is still my favourite. I just love that man.
After being a little disappointed with the second book, I expected better things this time round. It was okay and they got their HEA, but there was a lot of sex, a lot of Alice being tired and sick, and not enough actual blood and violence for a story about warring factions fighting to the death.
The interactions between Kane, Phoenix, Ari and James were my favourite bits of the book. Their connections were real and vital, knowing each other intimately, loving each other, ready to do whatever it takes, even die for each other.
Alice did come into her own eventually but it was all muted. E.M. wrote her as their missing piece but I didn't feel they were lacking a woman to make them whole. They loved her but if she'd never existed, they would have been just as happy together, based on what I read.
I was completely satisfied with how the feud finished, especially in Ari's playroom, but I could have stood more blood and guts because I think the story deserved it. All in all, not a bad series with four men who fascinated me, and Phoenix is still my favourite. I just love that man.
January 13, 2023
(I received an ARC for this book)
Trigger Warnings for this series include:
kidnapping, torture, suicidal ideation, D/s dynamics, murder, blood play, torture kinks
linked below, is my review for book one. I won’t give a full review for this since it would be a giant spoiler.
This one comes with more secrets and questions, but nothing stops Alice from being under their spell. From being worshiped by them, from being loved by them. Loving them in return. When they have moments of reassurance with each other, it didn’t matter how steamy it was, it did funny things to my heart! Having them all consume my heart means that I swooned over moments and things said that aren’t truly meant to be sweet. But it was sweet moments for them. And my heart could barely handle it! Their happily ever after couldn’t have been more perfect. I will absolutely return to this series!
darling: 16
sweet thing: 6
princess: 9
little goddess: 22
My Favorite Quotes:
• “Neither of you has permission to stop watching her. And neither of you has permission to come.”
• “I don’t know how to love kindly.”
• “You can talk to me on your knees, or you can talk to me on the bed.”
• “You can beg all you want, sweet boy, but you won’t get any satisfaction until we’re sure you understand your place here.”
• “Never apologize for when you need us.”
• “I will never, ever let you drown. Do you understand me?”
• “I’m always ready for you. I always will be.”
• “I don’t know how to be delicate with you.”
• “We need you to remind us that we’re capable of tenderness and care.”
• “You’ve been making the rules for us since you arrived.”
• “I would do it again and again. Every f!cking day until the world ends.”
9/10 Dirty Birdy
3/10 Age Gap
9/10 Dark Romance
3/10 Forced Proximity
7/10 Mafia-ish Romance
9/10 Why Choose
9/10 Series
This is my review for Sins that Find Us
This is my review for Sins that Bind Us
Trigger Warnings for this series include:
kidnapping, torture, suicidal ideation, D/s dynamics, murder, blood play, torture kinks
linked below, is my review for book one. I won’t give a full review for this since it would be a giant spoiler.
This one comes with more secrets and questions, but nothing stops Alice from being under their spell. From being worshiped by them, from being loved by them. Loving them in return. When they have moments of reassurance with each other, it didn’t matter how steamy it was, it did funny things to my heart! Having them all consume my heart means that I swooned over moments and things said that aren’t truly meant to be sweet. But it was sweet moments for them. And my heart could barely handle it! Their happily ever after couldn’t have been more perfect. I will absolutely return to this series!
darling: 16
sweet thing: 6
princess: 9
little goddess: 22
My Favorite Quotes:
• “Neither of you has permission to stop watching her. And neither of you has permission to come.”
• “I don’t know how to love kindly.”
• “You can talk to me on your knees, or you can talk to me on the bed.”
• “You can beg all you want, sweet boy, but you won’t get any satisfaction until we’re sure you understand your place here.”
• “Never apologize for when you need us.”
• “I will never, ever let you drown. Do you understand me?”
• “I’m always ready for you. I always will be.”
• “I don’t know how to be delicate with you.”
• “We need you to remind us that we’re capable of tenderness and care.”
• “You’ve been making the rules for us since you arrived.”
• “I would do it again and again. Every f!cking day until the world ends.”
9/10 Dirty Birdy
3/10 Age Gap
9/10 Dark Romance
3/10 Forced Proximity
7/10 Mafia-ish Romance
9/10 Why Choose
9/10 Series
This is my review for Sins that Find Us
This is my review for Sins that Bind Us
February 7, 2023
In another world, more of this trilogy delved deeper into the history of and relationships between the complicated dynamics between Kane, Phoenix, James, and Ari. I will never penalize an author in a review of a well-written book for not writing the story that I’d have preferred to read; I just wish I’d seen Alice as more of a missing puzzle piece and less of a walking plot device. I will stress here that this book is certainly not lacking the elements that I’ve come to expect from Lindsey’s work, such as dynamic characters and solid, immersive writing. If anything, I’m more disappointed in myself for not loving this trilogy as much as I anticipated.
Overall, including Alice as a character started to feel contrived when I understood that the conflict between the two mafia families was inevitable. I’ve tried to be aware of my own biases when contemplating my criticisms of her, but I never felt that she truly came into her own as a force to be reckoned with this in this overall story. I did warm up to her a bit in this final installment of the trilogy, but so many of her actions were merely reactions to the decisions made by the men around her, beginning with her father and ending with Kane and his men.
The external plot did have some decent twists that I didn’t see coming. Lindsey had to strike a delicate balance between delving into those intricacies at the expense of sacrificing time spend on the relationship element of the story. On the other hand, all of the spicy scenes were delightfully hot but then ended up feeling like padding for the mafia storyline that dragged as a result of not enough detail.
There’s so much here for readers to enjoy, and I know that Lindsey’s excellent writing will hopefully draw in new readers who prefer these subgenres. Luckily, they are prolific enough that I know I don’t have to wait long for stories that satisfy me as much as I truly wish this trilogy did.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
Overall, including Alice as a character started to feel contrived when I understood that the conflict between the two mafia families was inevitable. I’ve tried to be aware of my own biases when contemplating my criticisms of her, but I never felt that she truly came into her own as a force to be reckoned with this in this overall story. I did warm up to her a bit in this final installment of the trilogy, but so many of her actions were merely reactions to the decisions made by the men around her, beginning with her father and ending with Kane and his men.
The external plot did have some decent twists that I didn’t see coming. Lindsey had to strike a delicate balance between delving into those intricacies at the expense of sacrificing time spend on the relationship element of the story. On the other hand, all of the spicy scenes were delightfully hot but then ended up feeling like padding for the mafia storyline that dragged as a result of not enough detail.
There’s so much here for readers to enjoy, and I know that Lindsey’s excellent writing will hopefully draw in new readers who prefer these subgenres. Luckily, they are prolific enough that I know I don’t have to wait long for stories that satisfy me as much as I truly wish this trilogy did.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
February 5, 2023
I'll fully admit that I approached this last book in the trilogy with trepidation. Despite how much James, Alice, Kane, Ari, and Phoenix have been through together, their future felt less certain than ever at the end of the last book. With Alice pregnant and her wedding to Kane fast approaching, it was now or never for Kane's enemies to strike at the misfits he treasured and protected, and I was on the edge of my seat waiting for the first dominos to fall. The deception and betrayals in this book were as wildly unexpected as ever, and for the first time I was genuinely afraid that these misfits wouldn't be able to get the upper hand. Not even the long-awaited five-way steamy scenes could ease my concern over how much more these people would have to go through before getting their revenge, but it was a fantastic distraction to see Kane finally give into the temptation Alice presented at last. With everyone's tensions high and senses on high alert, there wasn't much time for relaxing and having fun, but these misfits made up for it with how voraciously they let off steam in and out of the bedroom. The action in this book was intense, as I knew it'd be, but the thing I clung to was the knowledge that if Alice, Phoenix, James, Ari, and Kane stayed loyal to each other, they would surely end up victorious. That didn't make the journey any less suspenseful or terrifying, because their enemies were absolutely ruthless in pursuit of their goals, but oh was it satisfying to see the bloodiest of revenge served up at the end to give each and every one of them the closure they needed. I can't say this book had the traditional happy ending you'd expect from romances, but there's no doubt that all five of these misfits are in love, free from their deadliest enemies, and 100% committed to their future together.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
February 16, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
My name might not be Alice, and this sure in't wonderland, but everyone is definitely a little mad here.
Promises were made, vows were spoken, and now it's up to me to usher in a new era and generation of the Walsh Family. We just need to rid the world of the man who called himself my father in order to do it. But it's not as easy as it seems. Not with hidden agendas and new chess pieces on the board. IT's on thing to stan in the front of the world and call myself Kane Walsh's wife-queen to his vast empire of death, but it's quite another to act on that power without proof I can be as ruthless as the four men who love me. Revenge is close enough that I can taste it, and it will be sweet. And all I can really hope for is that all four men will be by my side when all is said and done. After all, what would the new queen be without her knights in blood stained armor?
This is the third and final book in the Madly Ever After Series. This is a why choose fairy tale mafia romance. You need to have read Sins That Find Us and Sins That Bind Us first or you are going to be very lost.
This is of course the conclusion to this series and I for one couldn't wait to see what was going to happen. I loved discovering all there was to discover about James, Phoenix, Ariel Kane and Alice's relationship. However someone has been betraying them all and we get to find that out too. I have to say that I just about fell out on the floor when I found out who it was. I did not see that coming from a million miles away. The Misfits have this most amazing to read about ruthless side and I loved reading about that coming out to play even more. I don't really want to go in to talking about the story much. I would give something away and I don't want to do that. I for one loved this series. It was the perfect ending but I am a little sad that it is over.
My name might not be Alice, and this sure in't wonderland, but everyone is definitely a little mad here.
Promises were made, vows were spoken, and now it's up to me to usher in a new era and generation of the Walsh Family. We just need to rid the world of the man who called himself my father in order to do it. But it's not as easy as it seems. Not with hidden agendas and new chess pieces on the board. IT's on thing to stan in the front of the world and call myself Kane Walsh's wife-queen to his vast empire of death, but it's quite another to act on that power without proof I can be as ruthless as the four men who love me. Revenge is close enough that I can taste it, and it will be sweet. And all I can really hope for is that all four men will be by my side when all is said and done. After all, what would the new queen be without her knights in blood stained armor?
This is the third and final book in the Madly Ever After Series. This is a why choose fairy tale mafia romance. You need to have read Sins That Find Us and Sins That Bind Us first or you are going to be very lost.
This is of course the conclusion to this series and I for one couldn't wait to see what was going to happen. I loved discovering all there was to discover about James, Phoenix, Ariel Kane and Alice's relationship. However someone has been betraying them all and we get to find that out too. I have to say that I just about fell out on the floor when I found out who it was. I did not see that coming from a million miles away. The Misfits have this most amazing to read about ruthless side and I loved reading about that coming out to play even more. I don't really want to go in to talking about the story much. I would give something away and I don't want to do that. I for one loved this series. It was the perfect ending but I am a little sad that it is over.
February 2, 2023
Thank you for sharing a copy of this with me.
This is the third book in the Madly Ever after Series.
This was an incredible ending to an incredibly addictive series. I finished this book within a few hours I was so addicted.
Kane, Alice, James, Phoenix and Ari have an amazing, tantilising, sexual relationship. All are happy individually with each other and together it is just like magic. They all fit together like a jigsaw puzzle and are perfect as misfit relationship.
But there are forces working to bring them all down especially Kane the leader of the Walsh empire. He has many enemies mainly Guido Romano the man who brough up Alice. The man who left her to survive alone not caring a slice about her unless it for his power gain.
In this book Kane is ready to announce his pending Marriage and the misfit pregnancy announcement to the world but with all the enemies out there and all the attempts to cause disruption and pain all of them have a long way to go.
This book has soo much happening that when you think they may get a break all hell reins down on them and something else happens.
I loved seeing how strong they all were in this book and how their relationship as a whole worked so well and the love they all shared. especially with Kane finally opening up more.
The sexual scenes throughout this book were hot and definitely kept me gripped especially when I finally got my wish and we got a scene with them all OMG That was sexy.
Some of the scenes in this book are not for the faint hearted but they make for one hell of story.
If you haven't go get this series now it is incredible.
My Overall Rating is 5 💋💋💋💋💋
My Character Rating is 5 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
My Smut Rating is 4 🍆🍆🍆🍆
My Angst Rating is 4 😬😬😬😬
This is the third book in the Madly Ever after Series.
This was an incredible ending to an incredibly addictive series. I finished this book within a few hours I was so addicted.
Kane, Alice, James, Phoenix and Ari have an amazing, tantilising, sexual relationship. All are happy individually with each other and together it is just like magic. They all fit together like a jigsaw puzzle and are perfect as misfit relationship.
But there are forces working to bring them all down especially Kane the leader of the Walsh empire. He has many enemies mainly Guido Romano the man who brough up Alice. The man who left her to survive alone not caring a slice about her unless it for his power gain.
In this book Kane is ready to announce his pending Marriage and the misfit pregnancy announcement to the world but with all the enemies out there and all the attempts to cause disruption and pain all of them have a long way to go.
This book has soo much happening that when you think they may get a break all hell reins down on them and something else happens.
I loved seeing how strong they all were in this book and how their relationship as a whole worked so well and the love they all shared. especially with Kane finally opening up more.
The sexual scenes throughout this book were hot and definitely kept me gripped especially when I finally got my wish and we got a scene with them all OMG That was sexy.
Some of the scenes in this book are not for the faint hearted but they make for one hell of story.
If you haven't go get this series now it is incredible.
My Overall Rating is 5 💋💋💋💋💋
My Character Rating is 5 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
My Smut Rating is 4 🍆🍆🍆🍆
My Angst Rating is 4 😬😬😬😬
January 14, 2023
“I don’t need you to be delicate,”… “Yes, you do. And that’s okay,” he whispers into my hair, kissing the spot behind my ear. His hands are massive and warm and clinging to me like he’s afraid to let go. “Because we need you to be delicate for us. We need you to remind us that we’re capable of tenderness and care.”
This series is so hauntingly beautiful. If you haven’t read the first two books, back up and go read them first. Trust me, it is completely necessary. Please be aware of triggers because these are bloody and violent books but it is all part of the painting. The king of death will do anything to protect his queen and together they will rule the underworld with their three other partners. Because none of these are while on their own. Ari, Jason, Phoenix, Alice, and Kane make up a unit. Kane just needs to help Alice understand that he is just as all in as the other three misfits are. Alice knows her choice and her place. Vengeance will be served. A fairy tale ending will happen. It just isn’t exactly what you expect. This series is so good and the ending is worth it. Traitors are uncovered but there is one loyalty that will NEVER be betrayed.
“It means something that he says our wife. Almost like it doesn’t matter that I’m taking his name and sitting in his arms. It’s all of us. There’s no choosing. There’s no real hierarchy inside our little bubble. There’s just them, and they’ve made room in the exact shape of me. I’m wanted. I’m needed. I’m home.”
This series is so hauntingly beautiful. If you haven’t read the first two books, back up and go read them first. Trust me, it is completely necessary. Please be aware of triggers because these are bloody and violent books but it is all part of the painting. The king of death will do anything to protect his queen and together they will rule the underworld with their three other partners. Because none of these are while on their own. Ari, Jason, Phoenix, Alice, and Kane make up a unit. Kane just needs to help Alice understand that he is just as all in as the other three misfits are. Alice knows her choice and her place. Vengeance will be served. A fairy tale ending will happen. It just isn’t exactly what you expect. This series is so good and the ending is worth it. Traitors are uncovered but there is one loyalty that will NEVER be betrayed.
“It means something that he says our wife. Almost like it doesn’t matter that I’m taking his name and sitting in his arms. It’s all of us. There’s no choosing. There’s no real hierarchy inside our little bubble. There’s just them, and they’ve made room in the exact shape of me. I’m wanted. I’m needed. I’m home.”
February 14, 2023
So good! I just loved this chosen family of damaged souls so much - they were beautiful, sexy and perfect together, and I was rooting for all of their pieces to slot into place by the end.
The overall plot begins as a simple revenge plan, and morphs into a whodunit/who's-doing-it, suspense countdown. All of the main characters have been aggrieved and want revenge for the wrongs done to, not only themselves, but also their loved ones. There are numerous threads in the story leading to the unwinding at the end.
I felt that the pace meandered a bit in middle, but honestly, I often feel that way while reading suspenseful books, because I'm anxious for everything to come together. The writing is excellent, the books are not over long, and the characters and sexy relationship-building is the other focus in the trilogy, so it wasn't a major issue for me. There's no filler, there's no torture porn (which could easily have been a thing in this group) All that stuff is pretty much handled off-page. Thank goodness.
Often, by the end of a book, epilogues feel kind of superfluous and boring to me, but this epilogue was beautiful and the perfect antidote to the poison this group had to wade through. Gorgeous.
The overall plot begins as a simple revenge plan, and morphs into a whodunit/who's-doing-it, suspense countdown. All of the main characters have been aggrieved and want revenge for the wrongs done to, not only themselves, but also their loved ones. There are numerous threads in the story leading to the unwinding at the end.
I felt that the pace meandered a bit in middle, but honestly, I often feel that way while reading suspenseful books, because I'm anxious for everything to come together. The writing is excellent, the books are not over long, and the characters and sexy relationship-building is the other focus in the trilogy, so it wasn't a major issue for me. There's no filler, there's no torture porn (which could easily have been a thing in this group) All that stuff is pretty much handled off-page. Thank goodness.
Often, by the end of a book, epilogues feel kind of superfluous and boring to me, but this epilogue was beautiful and the perfect antidote to the poison this group had to wade through. Gorgeous.
February 21, 2023
This is the third and final book in the Madly Ever After series. I have been blown away by these installments and I'm devasted it's over. Although... What an ending!!
The relationship that these men have built between each other is astonishing and breathtaking, then then opening their arms,heart, and home to Alice was even more incredible. I really enjoy EM's writing style, I have always been drawn in by their writing. It's always so detailed, the plot is always thought out, and the characters all have their own personalities and backstories. They all have a reason to be apart of the story, even the bad guys. They played a mighty big role in this story for sure. I was shocked by who the mole was, I did not see it coming! And I was thrilled that I was surprised! That was a job well done on EM's part, they managed to keep the suspense and mystery alive throughout the course of three books.
I'm so glad we got to see these amazing characters welcome their child into the world, I loved those tender and sweet scenes. They were my favorite. Ari, James, Phoenix, Alice, and Kane are characters that are going to stay with me for a bit,. These characters were broken by bad people; and despite them doing bad things too, they had a code. They followed that code. And they never harmed innocent people. I'm sad to see this series end... Maybe at some point we could get Leo and Rhys's story?
'Maybe a little madly. Definitely too deeply. But it's enough.'
I loved these books, and I highly recommend that you read this series. Remember! This book cannot be read as a standalone! You have to read all three in order to understand what's going on.
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
The relationship that these men have built between each other is astonishing and breathtaking, then then opening their arms,heart, and home to Alice was even more incredible. I really enjoy EM's writing style, I have always been drawn in by their writing. It's always so detailed, the plot is always thought out, and the characters all have their own personalities and backstories. They all have a reason to be apart of the story, even the bad guys. They played a mighty big role in this story for sure. I was shocked by who the mole was, I did not see it coming! And I was thrilled that I was surprised! That was a job well done on EM's part, they managed to keep the suspense and mystery alive throughout the course of three books.
I'm so glad we got to see these amazing characters welcome their child into the world, I loved those tender and sweet scenes. They were my favorite. Ari, James, Phoenix, Alice, and Kane are characters that are going to stay with me for a bit,. These characters were broken by bad people; and despite them doing bad things too, they had a code. They followed that code. And they never harmed innocent people. I'm sad to see this series end... Maybe at some point we could get Leo and Rhys's story?
'Maybe a little madly. Definitely too deeply. But it's enough.'
I loved these books, and I highly recommend that you read this series. Remember! This book cannot be read as a standalone! You have to read all three in order to understand what's going on.
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
February 16, 2023
Title: Sins that Define Us
Author: E.M. Lindsey
Format: ebook
Genre: Dark, mafia romance, Suspense, RH, MMMMF
Standalone: Nope Read the first two books first
Part of a Series: Book 3 of the Madly Ever After trilogy
POV: Alice, James, Kane, Ariel, Phoenix
Steam Level: Hot
5/5
Sins that Define Us is the epic conclusion to the Madly Ever After trilogy. It starts just after the second one ends and definitely needs to be read in order. This book is dark and sexy and kept me reading. I was so excited to see how everything would play out and it did not disappoint. I wasn't all too surprised at some things but this story was told in such a ways that it still kept me guessing. When it ended I wanted more of Kane, Alice and their Misfits. If you like RH is MM then definitely read this book/trilogy. I love that these heroes are anti-heroes and all have some sort of limitation but are stronger together. I'm so glad that I got to read and discover E.M. Lindsey's work and I'll definitely be checking out more of their work.
I received an advanced copy of this book for free. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Author: E.M. Lindsey
Format: ebook
Genre: Dark, mafia romance, Suspense, RH, MMMMF
Standalone: Nope Read the first two books first
Part of a Series: Book 3 of the Madly Ever After trilogy
POV: Alice, James, Kane, Ariel, Phoenix
Steam Level: Hot
5/5
Sins that Define Us is the epic conclusion to the Madly Ever After trilogy. It starts just after the second one ends and definitely needs to be read in order. This book is dark and sexy and kept me reading. I was so excited to see how everything would play out and it did not disappoint. I wasn't all too surprised at some things but this story was told in such a ways that it still kept me guessing. When it ended I wanted more of Kane, Alice and their Misfits. If you like RH is MM then definitely read this book/trilogy. I love that these heroes are anti-heroes and all have some sort of limitation but are stronger together. I'm so glad that I got to read and discover E.M. Lindsey's work and I'll definitely be checking out more of their work.
I received an advanced copy of this book for free. This is my honest and voluntary review.
February 15, 2023
Revenge!
FINALLLYYYYY the satisfaction of revenge! I love a series/trilogy that ties everything up so beautifully at the end. EM Lindsey ended this series with an engaging and satisfying book. We get to see the ruthless side of James, Phoenix, Ariel, Kane, and Alice. Bloody and vicious, but oh, so satisfying.
We also get to see the relationship evolve when Alice and Kane get married. We get to see how they all complement each other to form their family. Alice's evolution throughout the story made me happy. She was such a sad, lost woman in the beginning, and you can really see her come into her own by the end.
I think the HEAs at the end of dark romances are always the best. And that all comes back to the basic thrill I get from the dark and twisted heroes - I love how they wreak havoc in the world and then worship the people they love.
Even though I shouldn't have to say it at this point, be sure to check the content warnings and be aware of triggers. This is the third book in the trilogy and the conclusion. This is not a standalone.
FINALLLYYYYY the satisfaction of revenge! I love a series/trilogy that ties everything up so beautifully at the end. EM Lindsey ended this series with an engaging and satisfying book. We get to see the ruthless side of James, Phoenix, Ariel, Kane, and Alice. Bloody and vicious, but oh, so satisfying.
We also get to see the relationship evolve when Alice and Kane get married. We get to see how they all complement each other to form their family. Alice's evolution throughout the story made me happy. She was such a sad, lost woman in the beginning, and you can really see her come into her own by the end.
I think the HEAs at the end of dark romances are always the best. And that all comes back to the basic thrill I get from the dark and twisted heroes - I love how they wreak havoc in the world and then worship the people they love.
Even though I shouldn't have to say it at this point, be sure to check the content warnings and be aware of triggers. This is the third book in the trilogy and the conclusion. This is not a standalone.
February 17, 2023
This book concludes the trilogy, and it’s a very good idea, if you haven’t already, to begin at the beginning. In this one, as you might expect from a conclusion, things come together: we see the codification of relationships between Alice and the group, the revelation of details and plot twists I’m not even going to begin to describe (spoilers are the worst) and a sense of equilibrium not just for Alice’s place among the men but for their bonds with each other. Ultimately, I think this is the strongest installment of the dark romance: Alice has a clearer sense not just of how she fits into her new reality, but of who she is and type of agency she can have– she’s still not my favorite character of all time, but the darker, stronger person she is now is worlds more interesting than who she was at the start. Overall, I found both book and series to be well worth a read.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
February 18, 2023
Firstly let me say I’ve got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me leaving my honest review.
Please make sure to read this series in order because if you don’t, 1. you’ll be very confused and 2, you won’t enjoy this series madly ever after as much as I have adored it. It’s really hard to give a review on the last book in the series because you just don’t wanna give anything away and ruin it for people reading this review,but let me tell you this last book answered questions for me I saw the connections, I saw insecurities, I saw passion and I saw love, Yes there was violence and yes there was gory details but that’s what made this series so addictive to have all of these elements you just cannot go wrong. I cannot wait to see what E.M Lindsey comes up with next because this series is going to be so hard to top. I honestly haven’t been able to put this book down it just tugs at my heartstrings it really honestly does. It was just an amazing series if I could give it 10 stars I would.
Please make sure to read this series in order because if you don’t, 1. you’ll be very confused and 2, you won’t enjoy this series madly ever after as much as I have adored it. It’s really hard to give a review on the last book in the series because you just don’t wanna give anything away and ruin it for people reading this review,but let me tell you this last book answered questions for me I saw the connections, I saw insecurities, I saw passion and I saw love, Yes there was violence and yes there was gory details but that’s what made this series so addictive to have all of these elements you just cannot go wrong. I cannot wait to see what E.M Lindsey comes up with next because this series is going to be so hard to top. I honestly haven’t been able to put this book down it just tugs at my heartstrings it really honestly does. It was just an amazing series if I could give it 10 stars I would.
February 14, 2023
The perfect ending to this trilogy!! And oh the twists and turns and depravity and darkness and all the dirty things that leads us on this absolutely beautiful journey. That ultimately is a jagged twisted love story that most would fill their upturned judgmental noses at. And even like I said in the review on book 1 a lot of the MM books I don't read and only because most our not written right but this one was written so beautifully but also so sexy and so freaking hawt!! That i loved every single word of these 3 books and I highly recommend them. My only thing is if you are put off my some other darkness that can be put in a book don't read. Otherwise give these a chance because you will love them but you will need to read in order!! 5 stars really isn't enough and I can't wait to find some more books from this author to read!!! ~By Tina
February 14, 2023
The perfect ending to this trilogy!! And oh the twists and turns and depravity and darkness and all the dirty things that leads us on this absolutely beautiful journey. That ultimately is a jagged twisted love story that most would fill their upturned judgmental noses at. And even like I said in the review on book 1, a lot of the MM books I don't read and only because most are not written right. But this one was written so beautifully but also so sexy and so freaking hawt!! I loved every single word of these 3 books and I highly recommend them. My only thing is if you are put off by some other darkness that can be put in a book don't read. Otherwise give these a chance because you will love them but you will need to read in order!! 5 stars really isn't enough and I can't wait to find some more books from this author to read!!! ~By Tina
February 15, 2023
Having read Sins That Find Us and Sins That Bind Us i've been looking forward to more! I picked up this third installment and got right back into the Madly Ever After world! I enjoyed this third installment!
Alice, Kane, Ariel, James, and Phoenix's journey continues! I didn't know how everything was going to play out in this final book.
Once again, this story and it's characters kept me on the edge of my seat. I didn't know how everything would be tackle and what all that was in store for everyone. Throughout all three installments all of these characters had me feeling many things throughout!
With Sins That Define Us, E.M. Lindsey has created a good and dark continuation / trilogy! I am so looking forward to picking up what this author comes up with next!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Grey's Promotions / the author*
Alice, Kane, Ariel, James, and Phoenix's journey continues! I didn't know how everything was going to play out in this final book.
Once again, this story and it's characters kept me on the edge of my seat. I didn't know how everything would be tackle and what all that was in store for everyone. Throughout all three installments all of these characters had me feeling many things throughout!
With Sins That Define Us, E.M. Lindsey has created a good and dark continuation / trilogy! I am so looking forward to picking up what this author comes up with next!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Grey's Promotions / the author*
February 20, 2023
I really felt that this was the perfect ending to the story of the Misfits.
Though it felt pretty drawn out and almost anti climatic but it was in a good way! Like, redemption with revenge maybe?
This last book revolved around the group searching for a rat and finding out how to deal with said rat.
There was a lot of manipulation of course...which I felt was being over done maybe? I didn't really get the feeling of happy family with tiny in tow, ya know?
There was still plenty hot moments. trust and relationship building...and near the end there was that mutual trust they all needed I think.
It was very intense...mainly I think Zane...who just couldn't trust anyone!
Overall it was amazing!! I would fully reccomend then to anyone!!
Though it felt pretty drawn out and almost anti climatic but it was in a good way! Like, redemption with revenge maybe?
This last book revolved around the group searching for a rat and finding out how to deal with said rat.
There was a lot of manipulation of course...which I felt was being over done maybe? I didn't really get the feeling of happy family with tiny in tow, ya know?
There was still plenty hot moments. trust and relationship building...and near the end there was that mutual trust they all needed I think.
It was very intense...mainly I think Zane...who just couldn't trust anyone!
Overall it was amazing!! I would fully reccomend then to anyone!!
March 2, 2023
The foreshadowing wrapped through the novels to solve the mystery is thoughtfully done. It appeared to be done with purpose and didn’t give anything away too soon. Alice has slowly started to soften the guys, even if it’s only a little. I appreciate that as the relationship grows, Alice is given the respect she deserves. She’s given choice.
This was a fairytale retelling that I couldn’t have imagined and it turned out fantastic. I have recommended this series no less than five times so far and will continue to spout about it. Always read your triggers before you start!
The love between each dynamic and the way we get to see into intimate moments, almost feels like something we shouldn’t have access to. Beautifully written.
This was a fairytale retelling that I couldn’t have imagined and it turned out fantastic. I have recommended this series no less than five times so far and will continue to spout about it. Always read your triggers before you start!
The love between each dynamic and the way we get to see into intimate moments, almost feels like something we shouldn’t have access to. Beautifully written.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2023
Little goddess
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the mad, emotional, and twisted journey that Alice and the Misfits took us on. Intriguing, defiant, fierce, proud, and protective, home is what you make it. Kane, James, Phoenix, Ari and Alice have made a powerful and powerfully moving one.
“I’m as shattered as them, as dark as them, stained as them.
And I’m as loved as they all are.”
I feel the sizzle when they come together, and the love they all share. There’s no doubt life will always hold surprises and challenges for this kingdom, but I know they’ll treasure the love they viciously fought for, the precious memories they’ll make, and the unforgettable moments they’ll savor.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the mad, emotional, and twisted journey that Alice and the Misfits took us on. Intriguing, defiant, fierce, proud, and protective, home is what you make it. Kane, James, Phoenix, Ari and Alice have made a powerful and powerfully moving one.
“I’m as shattered as them, as dark as them, stained as them.
And I’m as loved as they all are.”
I feel the sizzle when they come together, and the love they all share. There’s no doubt life will always hold surprises and challenges for this kingdom, but I know they’ll treasure the love they viciously fought for, the precious memories they’ll make, and the unforgettable moments they’ll savor.
February 16, 2023
This last book in this trilogy is written solidly, the characters, Kane, Phoenix, James, Ari and don't forget Alice!
Two mafia families, twists and turns.
Organised crime, graphic violence, extremely dark, with saying all that there is vengeance that is warranted there is love between the four guys and Alice.
They have a family that is all theirs.
No one will destroy this union...
Can they continue or will the past haunt them?
Very gritty extremely dark also delectably sensual, and written very well.
The four men have their own identities but they have one thing in common -- Alice...
Two mafia families, twists and turns.
Organised crime, graphic violence, extremely dark, with saying all that there is vengeance that is warranted there is love between the four guys and Alice.
They have a family that is all theirs.
No one will destroy this union...
Can they continue or will the past haunt them?
Very gritty extremely dark also delectably sensual, and written very well.
The four men have their own identities but they have one thing in common -- Alice...
February 17, 2023
You couldn't have asked for a better ending to this series as this is the third and final book in the Madly Ever After Series and it definitely gives off a whole different vibe in the word fairytale, because phew are there triggers, so read them before reading this series.
It's a dark, gritty, RH, MMMF and bloody and will keep you guessing about who you can trust and who's keeping secrets, and believe me that lil twist of a shocking discovery and the reason why had me wanting to reach in and carve them up.
Kan, Phoenix, Ariel, James were all happy together until they kidnap Alice and realize she's what's been missing and it completes them and that they'd burn the world down for her.
It's a dark, gritty, RH, MMMF and bloody and will keep you guessing about who you can trust and who's keeping secrets, and believe me that lil twist of a shocking discovery and the reason why had me wanting to reach in and carve them up.
Kan, Phoenix, Ariel, James were all happy together until they kidnap Alice and realize she's what's been missing and it completes them and that they'd burn the world down for her.
February 17, 2023
I really enjoyed this story! It pulled me in from beginning to end and picked up right where the last one left off. I really enjoyed getting to see our misfits continue to solidify their relationship and build a strong foundation for what was coming next. I loved watching Alice come into herself and start finding that balance with all the men and in herself. This story developed well and there was still plenty going on with twists and turns to keep the reader engaged and the story moving forward. I will definitely be checking out more by this author!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
February 19, 2023
It’s really difficult to review each of these books individually since the first two are cliffhangers, but overall, the story is really good. It’s the first time I’ve read anything by Lindsey that includes a cis hetero female character, and it was only ok for me. Alice is a decent character, but Lindsey focuses too much on her relationship to the other men in their polyamorous group. I found the men to be more interesting and wish Lindsey spent more time on their relationships with each other. The pacing is perfect and the action is compelling, so it kept me engaged. The characters were all complex and richly developed. The series is definitely worth reading.
October 16, 2024
what a series
You really can’t read any book in this series without the others, so this review goes for all the books. This series is dark, really dark. More so than most other dark books I’ve read. There’s a tremendous amount of pain and angst, but it is eventually fully counterbalanced by the love between Alice, Kane, Phoenix, Ariel, and James. There’s a lot of suspense and mystery as well, all of which is resolved in this last book. These 5 main characters are fully 3-dimensional and complex, as are the relationships between each of them. In the end, it is an uplifting and hopeful conclusion to a masterful series.
You really can’t read any book in this series without the others, so this review goes for all the books. This series is dark, really dark. More so than most other dark books I’ve read. There’s a tremendous amount of pain and angst, but it is eventually fully counterbalanced by the love between Alice, Kane, Phoenix, Ariel, and James. There’s a lot of suspense and mystery as well, all of which is resolved in this last book. These 5 main characters are fully 3-dimensional and complex, as are the relationships between each of them. In the end, it is an uplifting and hopeful conclusion to a masterful series.
January 28, 2023
Such a fantastic conclusion to this trilogy! These misfits have been through so much but they’ve finally gotten their happy ending! It was a long road paved with a lot of danger but they came through and making a family with as much love as they can! This was such an intriguing and intense journey that had me totally glued to the pages! A fantastic and well written story that was absolutely enjoyable and entertaining! I am voluntarily leaving an honest review for this complimentary copy of this book
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