A review by admya
A Sinner's Promise by Kylie Kent

5.0

🎙️🎙️ AUDIO 🎙️🎙️ 

🖤 Dark Romance 
🖤 Mafia 
🖤 Insta-Love 
🖤 Rich Hero 
🖤 Age gap 
🖤 Alpha Male 

Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 
Spice: 🌶️ 

Narrator: Shane West & Sofia Lette 

"A Sinner's Promise" by Kylie Kent is a gripping entry into the dark romance genre, presenting a tale of power, temptation, and the unexpected pathways of the heart. As the first book in the De Bellis Crime Family Saga, this novel introduces readers to the intense world of Gio De Bellis and Eloise, a world where danger and desire are tightly interwoven. 

The story is told from dual perspectives, giving readers a deep dive into the minds and emotions of both main characters. Gio De Bellis, the eldest son of a powerful crime family, embodies the classic anti-hero. Raised to be a monster by his ruthless father, Gio ultimately takes control of the family empire by eliminating the very man who shaped him. This act of rebellion sets the stage for Gio's complex struggle with power and identity as he steps into his role as the new head of the De Bellis family. The duality of Gio's character—his capacity for both violence and vulnerability—adds a compelling layer to his narrative. 

Eloise, on the other hand, is a determined and ambitious realtor who has clawed her way to the top of her field. Used to dealing with the elite and their often unsavory behaviors, she finds herself unexpectedly captivated by Gio. Her internal conflict between professional ambition and personal desire is portrayed with a raw authenticity that makes her a relatable and sympathetic character. Eloise's resilience and strength are clear as she navigates the treacherous waters of her attraction to Gio, balancing her career goals with the powerful lure of the forbidden. 

Their chemistry is electric from their first meeting, and Kylie Kent does an excellent job of building tension and passion between Gio and Eloise. The physical and emotional stakes are high, and their relationship evolves from a dangerous attraction to something deeper and more complex. The heat between them is palpable, and their interactions are charged with both sensuality and suspense. 

The supporting characters, particularly Gio's four younger brothers, add depth to the narrative, highlighting the family dynamics and the responsibilities that weigh heavily on Gio's shoulders. Their presence also sets the stage for future books in the series, hinting at further exploration of the De Bellis crime family's intricate web. 

The plot is well-paced, with a mix of intense action scenes and quieter, more introspective moments that allow for character development. The world-building is rich and detailed, immersing readers in the dark, dangerous, and opulent environment of Melbourne's elite properties and the criminal underworld. 

Kylie Kent's writing is engaging and evocative, seamlessly blending romance with elements of danger and suspense. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, capturing the tension and chemistry between the characters.  

"A Sinner's Promise" stands out as a strong start to the De Bellis Crime Family Saga, offering a tantalizing blend of romance, intrigue, and dark allure. Gio and Eloise's journey is one of passion, power, and ultimately, a fight for their place in a world where nothing is as it seems. This book is a must-read for fans of dark romance looking for a story that will keep them on the edge of their seats while delivering an intense and unforgettable love story.