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Dark Hearts #5
Stolen Hearts
I stole a kiss that wasn't mine to take.
But he stole my heart, first.
Neither was ours for the taking.
Both come with a no-return policy.
Stolen Hearts is a standalone dark, best friend’s older brother, age-gap mafia romance with a smart, strong-willed heroine, and an ultra possessive “look at her and I’ll unalive you" hero. Readers are advised to read the TW inside. No cliffhanger; HEA included.
But he stole my heart, first.
Neither was ours for the taking.
Both come with a no-return policy.
Stolen Hearts is a standalone dark, best friend’s older brother, age-gap mafia romance with a smart, strong-willed heroine, and an ultra possessive “look at her and I’ll unalive you" hero. Readers are advised to read the TW inside. No cliffhanger; HEA included.
484 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 14, 2023
About the author
Jagger Cole
65 books3,486 followersA reader first and foremost, Jagger Cole cut his romance writing teeth penning various fan-fiction stories years ago. After deciding to hang up his writing boots, Jagger worked in advertising pretending to be Don Draper. It worked enough to convince a woman way out of his league to marry him, though, which is a total win.
Now, Dad to two little princesses and King to a Queen, Jagger is thrilled to be back at the keyboard.
When not writing or reading romance books, he can be found woodworking, enjoying good whiskey, and grilling outside—rain or shine.
You can find all of his books at www.jaggercolewrites.com
Grab a FREE book for joining my fans-only newsletter! -> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/8rld1ik3sd
Now, Dad to two little princesses and King to a Queen, Jagger is thrilled to be back at the keyboard.
When not writing or reading romance books, he can be found woodworking, enjoying good whiskey, and grilling outside—rain or shine.
You can find all of his books at www.jaggercolewrites.com
Grab a FREE book for joining my fans-only newsletter! -> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/8rld1ik3sd
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 559 reviews
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
September 15, 2023DNF @ 64%
Nothing wrong with the plot and writing style. It's the MCs who ruined the book for me.
I tried to endure Callie's desperation for Castle's ounce of affection. Until this point all of her embarrassing pathetic attempts to seduce her arranged husband didn't stop. It was so cringey reading a character who doesn't have any self respect and preservation. I mean, how many times Castle turned her down and pushed her away in the most rude and awful way only for her to go begging for more. The secondhand embarrassment I got from her is a freaking understatement and I just want to erase everything she did from my memory.
Castle's no better, I get that he's not a Kildare by blood, he has his own demons, and he's older than her by 12 years. But the constant push and pull, hot and cold treatment is grating on my nerves. He's attracted to her but doesnt want to act on it so instead he always always pushed her away only for him to drag her back when he got his fit of jealousy. Growling all the time and claiming that she's his and no man will exist for her but him.
Plot wise I think this book is actually good, the twist that is about to unfold I think is something that I wouldn't probably see coming, sadly I'm never going to find out. I never doubted Mr. Cole's storytelling, and have always been a fan of his prior books. However, the MCs here are too much to handle and they exasperate the crap out of me. Up until this 64% I still don't feel the emotional connection between them, they're driven by lust since chapter 1 and there's nothing else. Though I have to say the steamy scenes are hot, ngl this author really knows how to write his spicy scenes.
Anyway, I think I reached my limit dealing with a bratty and immature FMC and a closed off, grumpy, damaged MMC. I'm sure some readers would love these two, but I know and can definitely say that this book isn't for me.
Nothing wrong with the plot and writing style. It's the MCs who ruined the book for me.
I tried to endure Callie's desperation for Castle's ounce of affection. Until this point all of her embarrassing pathetic attempts to seduce her arranged husband didn't stop. It was so cringey reading a character who doesn't have any self respect and preservation. I mean, how many times Castle turned her down and pushed her away in the most rude and awful way only for her to go begging for more. The secondhand embarrassment I got from her is a freaking understatement and I just want to erase everything she did from my memory.
Castle's no better, I get that he's not a Kildare by blood, he has his own demons, and he's older than her by 12 years. But the constant push and pull, hot and cold treatment is grating on my nerves. He's attracted to her but doesnt want to act on it so instead he always always pushed her away only for him to drag her back when he got his fit of jealousy. Growling all the time and claiming that she's his and no man will exist for her but him.
Plot wise I think this book is actually good, the twist that is about to unfold I think is something that I wouldn't probably see coming, sadly I'm never going to find out. I never doubted Mr. Cole's storytelling, and have always been a fan of his prior books. However, the MCs here are too much to handle and they exasperate the crap out of me. Up until this 64% I still don't feel the emotional connection between them, they're driven by lust since chapter 1 and there's nothing else. Though I have to say the steamy scenes are hot, ngl this author really knows how to write his spicy scenes.
Anyway, I think I reached my limit dealing with a bratty and immature FMC and a closed off, grumpy, damaged MMC. I'm sure some readers would love these two, but I know and can definitely say that this book isn't for me.
December 5, 2023
so i decided to dnf stolen hearts, i just don't like the book, so it's time to dnf the book!
i want to thank Valetine Pr for sending e-arc to me!
════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════
so let's start with the synopsis
I stole a kiss that wasn’t mine to take.
From a man cloaked in pain, scars, and mystery.
Deadly and beautiful, twelve years my senior, a killer for the Irish Mafia.
... And my best friend's older brother.
But if we're going to point fingers, I refuse to take the full blame.
You see, I may have stolen the first kiss.
But that's only because he stole my heart.
Neither was ours for the taking.
Both come with a no return policy.
I’m supposed to forget about Castle James.
But when a ruthless Mafia don I’ve been promised to comes to collect, will Castle forget about me?
Or take what already belongs to him:
My heart.
Stolen Hearts is a standalone dark, arranged marriage, age-gap romance with a smart, strong-willed heroine, and an ultra possessive “look at her, and I’ll unalive you hero. Readers are advised to read the TW inside. No cliffhanger; HEA included.
════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════
so i'm just gonna say the fmc annoyed the heck out of me . Why did you have a lost puppy to the mmc! i don't like the cliche unrequited love if it's not done right! i didn't connect with the mcs at all, i love me some age ape but don't keep mentioning the age ape in the book and i felt really left out but that may be because i didn't read the another books in the series.
i love me some mafia, but this wasn't the book for me, i wanted to read book one, but now I'm just not interested in the series at all.
════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════
i dnf at 60%, and i only gave it 2 stars because of the writing style and some characters
i may haven't liked the book, but maybe you will like it or maybe even love it!
i want to thank Valetine Pr for sending e-arc to me!
════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════
so let's start with the synopsis
I stole a kiss that wasn’t mine to take.
From a man cloaked in pain, scars, and mystery.
Deadly and beautiful, twelve years my senior, a killer for the Irish Mafia.
... And my best friend's older brother.
But if we're going to point fingers, I refuse to take the full blame.
You see, I may have stolen the first kiss.
But that's only because he stole my heart.
Neither was ours for the taking.
Both come with a no return policy.
I’m supposed to forget about Castle James.
But when a ruthless Mafia don I’ve been promised to comes to collect, will Castle forget about me?
Or take what already belongs to him:
My heart.
Stolen Hearts is a standalone dark, arranged marriage, age-gap romance with a smart, strong-willed heroine, and an ultra possessive “look at her, and I’ll unalive you hero. Readers are advised to read the TW inside. No cliffhanger; HEA included.
════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════
so i'm just gonna say the fmc annoyed the heck out of me . Why did you have a lost puppy to the mmc! i don't like the cliche unrequited love if it's not done right! i didn't connect with the mcs at all, i love me some age ape but don't keep mentioning the age ape in the book and i felt really left out but that may be because i didn't read the another books in the series.
i love me some mafia, but this wasn't the book for me, i wanted to read book one, but now I'm just not interested in the series at all.
════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════════ ⋆★⋆ ════
i dnf at 60%, and i only gave it 2 stars because of the writing style and some characters
i may haven't liked the book, but maybe you will like it or maybe even love it!
November 1, 2023
This was a decent read. Fast paced, okay-ish plot and lots of smut with a dose of action. I liked Castle and Callie as a couple - there's just something about an age gap, forbidden romance that gets me ya know? I would probably gag if a man called me baby girl irl or if I called him daddy. But with Castle James? Ngl, it was kinda hot. As much as Castle annoyed me with his hot and cold behavior, it was still manageable. Also the jealousy scenes made up for it in a way ig. If you're looking for a mafia romance with a good plot and lots of steamy scenes, then Stolen Hearts is the book for you! I can't wait to see what else Jagger Cole has got in store for us with this series!!!
*Thank you to Jagger Cole and Valentine PR for providing me with an ARC!
*Thank you to Jagger Cole and Valentine PR for providing me with an ARC!
April 13, 2024
♾️/5⭐️
4/5🌶️
I’m convinced Jagger can’t write a bad book. This entire series is amazing. I’ve been waiting for Castle’s story & it definitely didn’t disappoint!
Tropes:
- Dark/Mafia Romance
- Arranged Marriage
- Forced Proximity
- One Bed
- Age Gap (12 yrs)
- She Falls First, He Falls Harder
- Possessive MMC
- Virg!n FMC
4/5🌶️
I’m convinced Jagger can’t write a bad book. This entire series is amazing. I’ve been waiting for Castle’s story & it definitely didn’t disappoint!
Tropes:
- Dark/Mafia Romance
- Arranged Marriage
- Forced Proximity
- One Bed
- Age Gap (12 yrs)
- She Falls First, He Falls Harder
- Possessive MMC
- Virg!n FMC
October 13, 2023
Stolen Hearts had me so excited to finally get a deeper look at who Callie and Castle were. From the hints and teases you get of them throughout the series… I was expecting to be head over heels for them.
Truthfully, I almost DNF’d this book.. that thought crossed my brain at least 5 times. Unfortunately, I could not connect with them or really understand them.
Callie, I found to be disappointed with. I thought that she was annoying, whiny, and a little desperate. The way she kept pushing herself onto Castle made her one of “those girls” who just doesn’t get the hint. I really thought that once Castle told her for the 3rd time that they weren’t going to be together, I WANTED her to have a backbone and make him chase HER. What she actually did, was flirt here and there to try and get the reaction from Cas… and then revert right back to whining about how he won’t be with her.. It felt like this happened for majority of the book until ✨magically✨ Castle basically says “fuck it” and off into the sunset they go..
As for Castle, he wasn’t a terrible MMC… his story made sense and all that but I just thought it was all lack luster and seemed to be the “bare minimum” in order to be the typical broken MMC.
If you know me, Jagger Cole is one of my favorite authors. His writing style, the world he creates, the characters he builds… I find myself being completely immersed in his books and truly just enjoy taking it all in.
For this book, however, it just wasn’t for me.. I hope that Reckless Hearts is a bit better!
Truthfully, I almost DNF’d this book.. that thought crossed my brain at least 5 times. Unfortunately, I could not connect with them or really understand them.
Callie, I found to be disappointed with. I thought that she was annoying, whiny, and a little desperate. The way she kept pushing herself onto Castle made her one of “those girls” who just doesn’t get the hint. I really thought that once Castle told her for the 3rd time that they weren’t going to be together, I WANTED her to have a backbone and make him chase HER. What she actually did, was flirt here and there to try and get the reaction from Cas… and then revert right back to whining about how he won’t be with her.. It felt like this happened for majority of the book until ✨magically✨ Castle basically says “fuck it” and off into the sunset they go..
As for Castle, he wasn’t a terrible MMC… his story made sense and all that but I just thought it was all lack luster and seemed to be the “bare minimum” in order to be the typical broken MMC.
If you know me, Jagger Cole is one of my favorite authors. His writing style, the world he creates, the characters he builds… I find myself being completely immersed in his books and truly just enjoy taking it all in.
For this book, however, it just wasn’t for me.. I hope that Reckless Hearts is a bit better!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2023
Well, not my favorite in the series but Castle made up some ground by the end.
Weird left turn at the end of this which was refreshing... maybe?
Also.. this one really made me feel it's length. And not in the sexy way.
I think it comes down to how many rejections and denials we get from Castle. I was exhausted by the back and forth.
Callie deserved better than his mood swings and "screw you and then regret you" situations. As she was already the one pining and it made it feel uncomfortable unbalanced.
But I'm on the Jagger Cole train for better or worse. So I shall continue.
3.5 stars
4.5 on my spice scale
TW: PTSD, loss of soldier in combat, SA
CW: anal, Daddy Kink, Spanking, dirty talk
Weird left turn at the end of this which was refreshing... maybe?
Also.. this one really made me feel it's length. And not in the sexy way.
I think it comes down to how many rejections and denials we get from Castle. I was exhausted by the back and forth.
Callie deserved better than his mood swings and "screw you and then regret you" situations. As she was already the one pining and it made it feel uncomfortable unbalanced.
But I'm on the Jagger Cole train for better or worse. So I shall continue.
3.5 stars
4.5 on my spice scale
TW: PTSD, loss of soldier in combat, SA
CW: anal, Daddy Kink, Spanking, dirty talk
September 23, 2023
“Let me be crystal fucking clear about one thing,” he snaps coldly. “The woman you’ve been talking to alone in a bar, feeding alcohol to, and touching with your filthy fucking hands is my goddamn WIFE.”
The way this series dipped after the first two books NEEDS TO BE STUDIED.
Literally the DOWNFALL AFTER THE FIRST TWO GORGEOUS 4/5 STAR BOOKS, this cannot be real actually.
But here we are.
*sigh*
This book felt like the male gaze.
You could FEEL that it was written by a man.
I just-
Yeah
Honestly.
Okay plot and all that but the way the heroine was written....
Yeah.
Male gaze right there.
The way this series dipped after the first two books NEEDS TO BE STUDIED.
Literally the DOWNFALL AFTER THE FIRST TWO GORGEOUS 4/5 STAR BOOKS, this cannot be real actually.
But here we are.
*sigh*
This book felt like the male gaze.
You could FEEL that it was written by a man.
I just-
Yeah
Honestly.
Okay plot and all that but the way the heroine was written....
Yeah.
Male gaze right there.
October 14, 2024
Castle & Callie. If you’ve read the previous books you know that Castle is the Irish family’s second in command & Callie is the Greek family’s youngest sister. I liked Castle a lot from the previous stories and was eager to read his. But my expectations weren’t met I’m afraid.
She was obsessed and immature.
I couldn’t feel any chemistry between them and I never saw why he fell for her. What was it that made him like her? Also, he changed his attitude way too soon and too many times for my taste, I expected him to be stronger.
The plot twists I had predicted rather early.
-Dual 1st person POV
-Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Overall: 3.25/5 ⭐️
She was obsessed and immature.
I couldn’t feel any chemistry between them and I never saw why he fell for her. What was it that made him like her? Also, he changed his attitude way too soon and too many times for my taste, I expected him to be stronger.
The plot twists I had predicted rather early.
-Dual 1st person POV
-Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Overall: 3.25/5 ⭐️
September 14, 2023
4.5 Stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶🌶🌶
I have been highly anticipating Castle and Callie's romance for the past couple of books in this series. In usual, Jagger Cole fashion it brings the heat, suspense, and mafia action. Jagger Cole has now become one of my top autobuy mafia authors.
Callie is being forced into a marriage with a disgusting mafia man three times her senior due to a blood contract. An incident happened that put things into motion that was going to force her to marry his son instead. Luckily, there is a loophole in the contract that allows her to marry someone else instead. She has to be married for a year, but she can't just marry a friend. They need to protect the Greek and Irish families' interests. This leads to a marriage of convenience between Callie and Castle.
Castle was an army Ranger and then bodyguard to Neve and Eilish. He has been like an older brother to them. They have grown up and found their men, so he has moved into Cillian's number 2 for the Kildare / Irish Mafia. He is marrying her to protect the Kildare's. Callie has a huge crush and has pining for Castle since they met. However, Castle rejects her multiple times.
The first half of the book was difficult for me because of the multiple and harsh rejections. I have a hard time with a pining heroine when the hero pushes them away repeatedly. She came off desperate and pathetic for 50% of this book. The last half of the book got much better once Castle got over himself. He is seen as the hero or Captain America, but he has a lot of demons and guilt over his past.
Castle was so sexy and brought the dirty talk 🥵. The sex is amazing and worth the wait.
The last part of the book was intense and action-packed as usual. Jagger continues to build upon this series with these amazing characters. It is a continuous storyline with a good mafia plot. I'm very intrigued by Deimos, and I can't wait for his book.
Thank you to Valentine PR for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶🌶🌶
I have been highly anticipating Castle and Callie's romance for the past couple of books in this series. In usual, Jagger Cole fashion it brings the heat, suspense, and mafia action. Jagger Cole has now become one of my top autobuy mafia authors.
Callie is being forced into a marriage with a disgusting mafia man three times her senior due to a blood contract. An incident happened that put things into motion that was going to force her to marry his son instead. Luckily, there is a loophole in the contract that allows her to marry someone else instead. She has to be married for a year, but she can't just marry a friend. They need to protect the Greek and Irish families' interests. This leads to a marriage of convenience between Callie and Castle.
Castle was an army Ranger and then bodyguard to Neve and Eilish. He has been like an older brother to them. They have grown up and found their men, so he has moved into Cillian's number 2 for the Kildare / Irish Mafia. He is marrying her to protect the Kildare's. Callie has a huge crush and has pining for Castle since they met. However, Castle rejects her multiple times.
The first half of the book was difficult for me because of the multiple and harsh rejections. I have a hard time with a pining heroine when the hero pushes them away repeatedly. She came off desperate and pathetic for 50% of this book. The last half of the book got much better once Castle got over himself. He is seen as the hero or Captain America, but he has a lot of demons and guilt over his past.
Castle was so sexy and brought the dirty talk 🥵. The sex is amazing and worth the wait.
The last part of the book was intense and action-packed as usual. Jagger continues to build upon this series with these amazing characters. It is a continuous storyline with a good mafia plot. I'm very intrigued by Deimos, and I can't wait for his book.
Thank you to Valentine PR for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2023
Predictable but yummy nonetheless
September 27, 2023
Oh. My. God!! Who knew Castle was going to be such a bossy Dom? I sure didn't and I loved every second of it!! That man's mouth, oh my god... I was blushing like he was talking to me and seeing Callie take charge of her desires was beautiful to see!
Callie and Castle know each other from mutual friends. Castle was Neve and Eilish's bodyguard since they were young until they were both married. Callie is Ares' sister, who is Neve's husband so they're all a big family. Callie is the youngest of her brothers and the one her father sold to to get a smuggling route, he promised Callie in marriage to a terrible guy. Her brothers were constantly trying to find her a way to get out of it and they didn't expect the sudden change of events that would happen.
Castle started as a bodyguard but quickly became family and considered the girls as his own sisters and protected them as such. He had his ghosts from the past and carried more weight than everyone saw. He had a rough past and life kept giving him the worst cards until Cilian (Neve and Eilish's uncle) found him and hired him to guard the girls. That's when his life changed and he found his purpose, he found his family. He just never knew how true that would be.
What an amazing book! I was so curious about how Callie would get out of her situation and I loved how everything worked out. Also, that little plot twist at the end, about Castle's bloodline, I loved it!!! I can't wait to read Deimos' book, I seriously love this series so much!!!
Callie and Castle know each other from mutual friends. Castle was Neve and Eilish's bodyguard since they were young until they were both married. Callie is Ares' sister, who is Neve's husband so they're all a big family. Callie is the youngest of her brothers and the one her father sold to to get a smuggling route, he promised Callie in marriage to a terrible guy. Her brothers were constantly trying to find her a way to get out of it and they didn't expect the sudden change of events that would happen.
Castle started as a bodyguard but quickly became family and considered the girls as his own sisters and protected them as such. He had his ghosts from the past and carried more weight than everyone saw. He had a rough past and life kept giving him the worst cards until Cilian (Neve and Eilish's uncle) found him and hired him to guard the girls. That's when his life changed and he found his purpose, he found his family. He just never knew how true that would be.
What an amazing book! I was so curious about how Callie would get out of her situation and I loved how everything worked out. Also, that little plot twist at the end, about Castle's bloodline, I loved it!!! I can't wait to read Deimos' book, I seriously love this series so much!!!
September 16, 2023
DNF @40% while I thoroughly enjoyed Twisted Hearts in this series and had been really excited about Castle's story. I just had so many issues within the story that I felt like it wasn't fair to me or the author to continue. Thank you to Jagger Cole for the opportunity and to Valentine PR for the ARC.
September 11, 2023
😮💨❤️🔥
this book was SO. HOT.
No secret that I love this series & all of the characters but Castle & Callie just became my favorite pair 🥹🫶🏼
fun banter & tension off the charts!!!!
What you need to know:
Mafia romance
Marriage of convenience
Possessive MMC
Strong FMC
Forced proximity
You’re mine
SPICYYYYYYY
On KU 🫶🏼
Perfect for the mafia romance girlies! A touch of darker elements but not as dark as some of the others in the series - but as always, check trigger warnings first 🫶🏼
this book was SO. HOT.
No secret that I love this series & all of the characters but Castle & Callie just became my favorite pair 🥹🫶🏼
fun banter & tension off the charts!!!!
What you need to know:
Mafia romance
Marriage of convenience
Possessive MMC
Strong FMC
Forced proximity
You’re mine
SPICYYYYYYY
On KU 🫶🏼
Perfect for the mafia romance girlies! A touch of darker elements but not as dark as some of the others in the series - but as always, check trigger warnings first 🫶🏼
October 4, 2023
Stolen Hearts is another really enjoyable installment in the Dark Hearts series. I don't care what anyone says...these stories are just smutty deliciousness with fun plots.
Castle and Callie were fire and while I really didn't like either of them all that much for half of the story, I was impressed at their character development to get to a place that I did love them. You'll hate Castle's alphahole back and forth and Callie's desperate need for affection and acceptance from him. Their chemistry was undeniable and Castle never stood a chance.
But while these two learn from their many flaws, they also learn to grow together and find peace and happiness and I appreciated that. The smut was hot and the plot was suspenseful and action packed. If you're looking for a darker read with plenty of spicy romance and authentic characters with grit, then I recommend this series!
Castle and Callie were fire and while I really didn't like either of them all that much for half of the story, I was impressed at their character development to get to a place that I did love them. You'll hate Castle's alphahole back and forth and Callie's desperate need for affection and acceptance from him. Their chemistry was undeniable and Castle never stood a chance.
“Let’s get one fucking thing straight,” Castle snaps, yanking me hard to his body. “You. Are. MINE.” My core quivers. “Not his,” he rasps. “Not any other man’s. And the next one who touches you as if that is not an iron-clad, irrefutable fact will not be getting back up again. Ever. Is that clear?”
But while these two learn from their many flaws, they also learn to grow together and find peace and happiness and I appreciated that. The smut was hot and the plot was suspenseful and action packed. If you're looking for a darker read with plenty of spicy romance and authentic characters with grit, then I recommend this series!
May 28, 2024
4⭐️- not my favourite in the series but I still enjoyed Castle and Callie’s book and the plot twists in this one really got me! Castle was giving all of the possessive vibes and I’m always here for an age gap romance 🫢
April 27, 2024
This did not disappoint
January 15, 2024
These main characters really annoyed me for most of the book.
The last third of the story is much better, I liked how it all ended.
The last third of the story is much better, I liked how it all ended.
April 6, 2024
This one did not bring joy. I’m all for secret pining/unrequited crushes but this one was painful.
Honestly, also not a big fan of calling other women (YOU DONT KNOW) a slut, simply because you’re jealous and think it’s someone the guy is fucking.
I don’t like it in real life and sure as fuck don’t like it in fiction.
Honestly, also not a big fan of calling other women (YOU DONT KNOW) a slut, simply because you’re jealous and think it’s someone the guy is fucking.
I don’t like it in real life and sure as fuck don’t like it in fiction.
December 31, 2023
Finally some spice!
I stole that kiss. And it wasn’t mine to take. But the truth is, I only did it because he stole my heart first. Neither was ours for the taking. But both come with a no return policy.
I have to start by saying that this would probably have been a five-star read for me had I read all the earlier books in the series / universe. Seeing as this was my first ever book by Jagger Cole, I feel like I was a bit in over my head with the world of this book especially with all of its characters.
There were so many side characters whom were all related somehow but it was difficult for me to keep track on who’s who since I had not read any of the earlier books in the universe. Also, the events of the earlier books were mostly referenced as the events that took place and, seeing as I have not read the earlier books, I feel like I missed part of the context not knowing the events that were being referred to. I will, however, definitely read them in the future!
Again, I feel like this might be something that I noticed due to not having read the earlier books but I feel like the main characters weren’t described a lot, which made it harder for me to feel the connection to them. I feel conflicted about this because reading this book as a standalone, it makes a huge difference but having read the earlier books, I hate the constant repetition of the past events and the main characters.
That’s what living is for: living. The past can stay there, dead and buried.
All in all, the biggest thing missing for me in this book was that I would have preferred more of a mafia element in it. I felt like mafia was a constant in the book in the background but I would have preferred for it to be on the forefront a bit more as well seeing as Castle was the head of the Irish mafia.
I really loved the subplot of figuring out Castle’s real parents. It was a constant in the background and provided another element to the book in addition to the threat to Castle and Callie. I kind of saw it coming too but not in a bad way, instead, more in a sense of ”Ha, I knew it!”.
I also guessed the villain of the story, when usually I am not too good at figuring out the plot twists. I did not mind it, though, cause for once I felt myself smart guessing the plot twists beforehand!
The walls are crumbling. The earth is shattering beneath my feet. I’m losing control around her.
I really liked the phasing of this book. There were some events and enough plot to keep the book interesting, definitely some proper spice (which I have been looking forward to for so long) and also insights into the characters. Although, I feel like there could have been more of Castle’s inner musings and his feelings regarding Callie could have been more elaborated. Callie was a no-brainer since it was clear from the start she had the hots for Castle and I feel like I got a good read on her but Castle is still a bit of a mystery to me, unfortunately.
In conclusion, I think this book had a good balance of everything without being over the top in any aspect and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves a mafia romance and does not mind darker themes! Although, seeing as I love a dark romance, I would not classify this as one.
“In case you’ve forgotten you are family, Mrs. Kildare.”
“You know, we never actually discussed changing my last name.”
“Well, we’re discussing it now. Can’t really be the king of the Irish Mafia with a Greek queen sitting at my side.”
Without knowing the previous books, I feel pretty comfortable in saying the next book will be about Deimos and Dahlia (and I am embarrassed to admit I actually had to search for their names haha cause I did not remember them).
I received an ARC of Stolen Hearts in exchange for an honest review
I stole that kiss. And it wasn’t mine to take. But the truth is, I only did it because he stole my heart first. Neither was ours for the taking. But both come with a no return policy.
I have to start by saying that this would probably have been a five-star read for me had I read all the earlier books in the series / universe. Seeing as this was my first ever book by Jagger Cole, I feel like I was a bit in over my head with the world of this book especially with all of its characters.
There were so many side characters whom were all related somehow but it was difficult for me to keep track on who’s who since I had not read any of the earlier books in the universe. Also, the events of the earlier books were mostly referenced as the events that took place and, seeing as I have not read the earlier books, I feel like I missed part of the context not knowing the events that were being referred to. I will, however, definitely read them in the future!
Again, I feel like this might be something that I noticed due to not having read the earlier books but I feel like the main characters weren’t described a lot, which made it harder for me to feel the connection to them. I feel conflicted about this because reading this book as a standalone, it makes a huge difference but having read the earlier books, I hate the constant repetition of the past events and the main characters.
That’s what living is for: living. The past can stay there, dead and buried.
All in all, the biggest thing missing for me in this book was that I would have preferred more of a mafia element in it. I felt like mafia was a constant in the book in the background but I would have preferred for it to be on the forefront a bit more as well seeing as Castle was the head of the Irish mafia.
I really loved the subplot of figuring out Castle’s real parents. It was a constant in the background and provided another element to the book in addition to the threat to Castle and Callie. I kind of saw it coming too but not in a bad way, instead, more in a sense of ”Ha, I knew it!”.
I also guessed the villain of the story, when usually I am not too good at figuring out the plot twists. I did not mind it, though, cause for once I felt myself smart guessing the plot twists beforehand!
The walls are crumbling. The earth is shattering beneath my feet. I’m losing control around her.
I really liked the phasing of this book. There were some events and enough plot to keep the book interesting, definitely some proper spice (which I have been looking forward to for so long) and also insights into the characters. Although, I feel like there could have been more of Castle’s inner musings and his feelings regarding Callie could have been more elaborated. Callie was a no-brainer since it was clear from the start she had the hots for Castle and I feel like I got a good read on her but Castle is still a bit of a mystery to me, unfortunately.
In conclusion, I think this book had a good balance of everything without being over the top in any aspect and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves a mafia romance and does not mind darker themes! Although, seeing as I love a dark romance, I would not classify this as one.
“In case you’ve forgotten you are family, Mrs. Kildare.”
“You know, we never actually discussed changing my last name.”
“Well, we’re discussing it now. Can’t really be the king of the Irish Mafia with a Greek queen sitting at my side.”
Without knowing the previous books, I feel pretty comfortable in saying the next book will be about Deimos and Dahlia (and I am embarrassed to admit I actually had to search for their names haha cause I did not remember them).
I received an ARC of Stolen Hearts in exchange for an honest review
September 18, 2023
If you're a fan of steamy romances with an ultra-possessive alpha male, intense action, and buried family secrets, then you should definitely read Stolen Hearts by Jagger Cole.
If you've read the previous books in the Dark Hearts series, you already know about Calliope "Callie" Drakos' upcoming arranged marriage to a sadistic man three times her age. As her 21st birthday approaches, the deadline for submitting to the marriage contract, she decides to act on her year-long crush on Castle James. Little did Callie know that a stolen kiss in a garden would lead her to her heart's desire.
I particularly enjoyed Callie's fiery personality. Despite being innocent and facing a future she did not choose, she was determined to make the best of every opportunity. When she saw a chance to seduce Castle, she went for it! Their interactions were fun and full of passion. The only downside was the push-and-pull dynamic from Castle, which grew tiring for me and lasted more than half the book. However, it was worth the wait when he finally dropped his guard and let Callie into his heart.
Aside from the steamy scenes between Castle and Callie (which Jagger Cole always delivers on), I was impressed with how well the action scenes played out. The characters' intense fear and anxiety as they fought for their lives against those who wished to take them down were palpable. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!
Overall, Stolen Hearts is an enjoyable and engaging story with exceptional steam and excitement.
Dual POV
It can be read as a standalone
Playlist & Epilogue
Tropes: mafia, forbidden, age gap, grumpy/sunshine, forced marriage, military hero, "look at her and I'll unalive you" vibes
Safety Spoilers:
Content Warning:
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you've read the previous books in the Dark Hearts series, you already know about Calliope "Callie" Drakos' upcoming arranged marriage to a sadistic man three times her age. As her 21st birthday approaches, the deadline for submitting to the marriage contract, she decides to act on her year-long crush on Castle James. Little did Callie know that a stolen kiss in a garden would lead her to her heart's desire.
I particularly enjoyed Callie's fiery personality. Despite being innocent and facing a future she did not choose, she was determined to make the best of every opportunity. When she saw a chance to seduce Castle, she went for it! Their interactions were fun and full of passion. The only downside was the push-and-pull dynamic from Castle, which grew tiring for me and lasted more than half the book. However, it was worth the wait when he finally dropped his guard and let Callie into his heart.
Aside from the steamy scenes between Castle and Callie (which Jagger Cole always delivers on), I was impressed with how well the action scenes played out. The characters' intense fear and anxiety as they fought for their lives against those who wished to take them down were palpable. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!
Overall, Stolen Hearts is an enjoyable and engaging story with exceptional steam and excitement.
Dual POV
It can be read as a standalone
Playlist & Epilogue
Tropes: mafia, forbidden, age gap, grumpy/sunshine, forced marriage, military hero, "look at her and I'll unalive you" vibes
Safety Spoilers:
Content Warning:
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 5, 2023
Jagger cole remains one of my favourite authors this year!
Whilst this isn’t my favourite In the series, I loved the story and spice between Castle and Callie.
I just knew castle was going to give POSSESSIVE and he did not disappoint!
4⭐️
Whilst this isn’t my favourite In the series, I loved the story and spice between Castle and Callie.
I just knew castle was going to give POSSESSIVE and he did not disappoint!
4⭐️
September 14, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/6.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5.
* I read an arc of this book. *
First of all I'd like to disclose that I was waiting for Castle & Callie to happen since at least Vicious Hearts so I had some expectations for their story. I'm happy to say I was not disappointed.
I was getting frustrated with the first half of this book but the second half totally won me over. Dirty dancing move? A Hero who doesn't think of himself as one but does the heroic thing? Yes, yes, yes to all of the above! I loved this book!
Castle is a former Ranger and because of it he has some ghosts however Cillian saw something in him, way back when, and gave him a purpose again to live. That purpose was to protect Cillian nieces.
Now things started to shift since Cillian wants to settle down a little more and also due to the fact that Callie's arrange marriage of doom came down to its last day so when Callie needs a husband asap, Castle offers himself as a sacrifice (but not really 😉).
He has a bone to pick with the title hero that was bestowed upon him by others however he just can't help himself and he just does heroic things. When he did it, it brought tears to my eyes.
He is a protector through and through and he was everything I was expecting and more.
I loved Callie even though she had a thing for recklessness however Castle managed to always "contain" her. I just love her nature and the fact that despite everything that was thrown her way, she didn't wither under pressure because she was born in this world and she is made of stern stuff.
I was almost about done with the pining from Callie's point because Castle was in his denying phase and just wouldn't let go but obviously once they started living together he couldn't deny or really refuse the Queen of Trouble and Chaos as he calls her.
I loved the tension between Callie and Castle and I loved that she wore her passion and courage on her sleeve from the very beginning specifically when she exposed herself to him even though she knew that Castle would very likely reject her but she always took the plunge and in the end it worked.
I guessed who the person was that was pulling strings the first time but then that wasn't it and afterwards I connected the dots right before Jagger did it. The last 25% of Jagger's books always packs a punch and this one was no exception.
I'm very excited for whatever Jagger releases next!
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5.
* I read an arc of this book. *
First of all I'd like to disclose that I was waiting for Castle & Callie to happen since at least Vicious Hearts so I had some expectations for their story. I'm happy to say I was not disappointed.
I was getting frustrated with the first half of this book but the second half totally won me over. Dirty dancing move? A Hero who doesn't think of himself as one but does the heroic thing? Yes, yes, yes to all of the above! I loved this book!
Castle is a former Ranger and because of it he has some ghosts however Cillian saw something in him, way back when, and gave him a purpose again to live. That purpose was to protect Cillian nieces.
Now things started to shift since Cillian wants to settle down a little more and also due to the fact that Callie's arrange marriage of doom came down to its last day so when Callie needs a husband asap, Castle offers himself as a sacrifice (but not really 😉).
He has a bone to pick with the title hero that was bestowed upon him by others however he just can't help himself and he just does heroic things. When he did it, it brought tears to my eyes.
He is a protector through and through and he was everything I was expecting and more.
I loved Callie even though she had a thing for recklessness however Castle managed to always "contain" her. I just love her nature and the fact that despite everything that was thrown her way, she didn't wither under pressure because she was born in this world and she is made of stern stuff.
I was almost about done with the pining from Callie's point because Castle was in his denying phase and just wouldn't let go but obviously once they started living together he couldn't deny or really refuse the Queen of Trouble and Chaos as he calls her.
I loved the tension between Callie and Castle and I loved that she wore her passion and courage on her sleeve from the very beginning specifically when she exposed herself to him even though she knew that Castle would very likely reject her but she always took the plunge and in the end it worked.
I guessed who the person was that was pulling strings the first time but then that wasn't it and afterwards I connected the dots right before Jagger did it. The last 25% of Jagger's books always packs a punch and this one was no exception.
I'm very excited for whatever Jagger releases next!
September 15, 2023
“What are you so fucking afraid of, Castle?”
“I’m afraid of destroying you. Of breaking you and grinding the pieces of you that are left into fucking dust.”
“What if I want you to break me?”
I'm for 4.75 stars here.
I didn't know I wanted to read about Castle and Callie until I couldn't stop reading their story.
HOWEVER, the one and only gripe I have is the whole Daddy deal.
Look, I'll be the first one to hold up a DADDY sign at a Harry Styles concert, but it's COMPLETELY different when you're in the most intimate of positions and that's being yelled out. Um, NO! Just NO! But maybe it's just a me thing. I digress...back to the rest of the story...
"She’s a splash of chaos in my life of straight lines and rigid timetables."
As I mentioned before, I had no idea Castle and Callie's love story would grab ahold of me like it did. There was some good twist and turns moments throughout. Love my little jokester Hades. Always a tickle and chuckle when he shows up for a scene. But I have to say, that Ms. Calliope Drakos may have bumped him off the Top Favorite lists. Everything about Callie was FIRE! (pun intended) She's a firecracker, so funny, super smart and took NO SH*T from Castle or any of her brothers. She stood her ground, knew what she wanted and never backed down for the love for her family and especially for her love for Castle.
“What can I do?”
“You can let me love you.”
“I can do that.”
“I’m afraid of destroying you. Of breaking you and grinding the pieces of you that are left into fucking dust.”
“What if I want you to break me?”
I'm for 4.75 stars here.
I didn't know I wanted to read about Castle and Callie until I couldn't stop reading their story.
HOWEVER, the one and only gripe I have is the whole Daddy deal.
Look, I'll be the first one to hold up a DADDY sign at a Harry Styles concert, but it's COMPLETELY different when you're in the most intimate of positions and that's being yelled out. Um, NO! Just NO! But maybe it's just a me thing. I digress...back to the rest of the story...
"She’s a splash of chaos in my life of straight lines and rigid timetables."
As I mentioned before, I had no idea Castle and Callie's love story would grab ahold of me like it did. There was some good twist and turns moments throughout. Love my little jokester Hades. Always a tickle and chuckle when he shows up for a scene. But I have to say, that Ms. Calliope Drakos may have bumped him off the Top Favorite lists. Everything about Callie was FIRE! (pun intended) She's a firecracker, so funny, super smart and took NO SH*T from Castle or any of her brothers. She stood her ground, knew what she wanted and never backed down for the love for her family and especially for her love for Castle.
“What can I do?”
“You can let me love you.”
“I can do that.”
October 26, 2023
meh, honestly I've never liked Callie, so it's no surprise I'm not loving her in the book, she annoyed the shit out of me and I have to say I skipped all her ramblings I just couldn't suffer her.
The plot twist? it was interesting but in the end it was a little exaggerated?? I mean how many children did Declan father? Good Lord I lost count.
I'm hoping for Deimos' book, pls let not it be another flop like Cillian's 🤞
The plot twist? it was interesting but in the end it was a little exaggerated?? I mean how many children did Declan father? Good Lord I lost count.
I'm hoping for Deimos' book, pls let not it be another flop like Cillian's 🤞
September 15, 2023
Truly awful
The story we've been waiting for.......and what an absolute waste of all that potential. Callie is most definitely the most unlikable character I've ever read. To say disappointing is an understatement.
The story we've been waiting for.......and what an absolute waste of all that potential. Callie is most definitely the most unlikable character I've ever read. To say disappointing is an understatement.
September 17, 2023
He’s my best friends brother, protector and bodyguard to the Kildare family. The one who volunteered to get me out of this mess and protect the family. The catch is he is 12 years my senior and I have feelings that he refuses to acknowledge or encourage.
Callie and Castle what can I say I loved them together! How Castle is rough, and aggressive but protective makes me swoon. I love that Callie is a brat and pushes Castles's buttons because the things that man does make me unwell and blushing. I enjoy the characters and learning about the family’s but also Castles's dark past and opening that man up because he is a brick. My heart was racing at the end for sure. But enjoyed the plot and spice!
If you love:
🔹Dark Mafia
🔹Grumpy Protective MMC
🔹Bratty FMC
🔹Tension
🔹Great Plot
🔹Rough Delicious Spice
Genre/Type: Dark Romance 18+
APK: Kindle ARC
Pages: 519
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Book 5 In The Dark Hearts Series But Is A Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Mafia, Best Friends Brother, Age Gap (12 Years), Arranged Marriage, Irish Mafia, Greek Mafia, Brat, Ex Military, Boxing, Virgin, Sexual Content, Praise, Daddy Kink, Dom, Sub, Spanking, After Care, Car Action, Bound, Letters, Cursing, Guns, Fire, Violence, Playlist, Death & Grief. Mentions: Suicidal Thoughts
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Scribd | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
Callie and Castle what can I say I loved them together! How Castle is rough, and aggressive but protective makes me swoon. I love that Callie is a brat and pushes Castles's buttons because the things that man does make me unwell and blushing. I enjoy the characters and learning about the family’s but also Castles's dark past and opening that man up because he is a brick. My heart was racing at the end for sure. But enjoyed the plot and spice!
If you love:
🔹Dark Mafia
🔹Grumpy Protective MMC
🔹Bratty FMC
🔹Tension
🔹Great Plot
🔹Rough Delicious Spice
Genre/Type: Dark Romance 18+
APK: Kindle ARC
Pages: 519
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Book 5 In The Dark Hearts Series But Is A Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Mafia, Best Friends Brother, Age Gap (12 Years), Arranged Marriage, Irish Mafia, Greek Mafia, Brat, Ex Military, Boxing, Virgin, Sexual Content, Praise, Daddy Kink, Dom, Sub, Spanking, After Care, Car Action, Bound, Letters, Cursing, Guns, Fire, Violence, Playlist, Death & Grief. Mentions: Suicidal Thoughts
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Scribd | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
August 15, 2024
This Series has it all! Stolen Hearts is book five in the Dark Hearts Series and is definitely another experience of alpha hotness, scorching H-O-T sex, and a fast-paced, intense and deliciously sexy story.
September 17, 2023
4.5 stars⭐️
March 14, 2024
FUCKING MAGIC ✨
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