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sixelad03 's review for:
Deadly Obsession
by Settle Myer
dark
emotional
funny
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
The story of Deadly Obsession takes place alongside Deadly Deceit, the first book in the New York City Syndicate series. In this book, we are reintroduced to Elias, Delancy’s older brother, and Sage, Noah’s best friend. The least we can say is that we get straight to business in this second book—if you know what I mean 👀
One thing is certain: I enjoyed this book as much as the first. It features the same successful elements as the first book, such as references to the NYC mafia, lots of banter between the two main characters, mystery, secrets, and so on. However, that doesn’t mean the two books are identical—quite the contrary. I found a sense of sweetness amid the brutality in Deadly Obsession that I didn’t expect, and I quite enjoyed it, despite already knowing that Settle Myer describes the series as a dark cozy romance.
I really liked Sage. Even though she has many vulnerabilities that make her seem fragile, she holds her head high and does exactly what she wants. While many would be afraid of ending up completely broken, Sage grows stronger by taking back control of her life. She isn’t afraid to stand up to Elias when 99% of people wouldn’t dare tell him a fraction of what she says to him. At the same time, I don’t think anyone has ever tried to understand Elias as much as Sage does. She sees who he truly is behind his mafia boss persona and accepts him. If anyone is capable of saving Elias from himself, I believe it is sa Reine, Sage.
Honestly, who would have thought that beneath the frightening costume of a mafia boss was a big teddy bear—but only for Sage. Elias tries to appear fearless, but beneath his tough exterior is a frightened, abused boy consumed by guilt. Yet, when we see him with Sage, we realize that, beneath all his red flags, lies a big old green one. There is nothing he wouldn’t do for her. I enjoyed getting to know him and seeing how much he cares for his brother, even though the two men are virtually incapable of showing it.
I was drawn in and fascinated by the story, both in terms of character and plot development. I liked that the book featured many interactions with Noah and Delancy. I also felt less alone in having a nut allergy and strongly empathized with Elias on that point.
I also wanted to point out that it’s rare for both main characters in a book to be plus size, which I really appreciated.
While I obviously recommend this book, I advise reading the author’s note first. Your mental health is always more important than anything else.
Many thanks to Settle Myer for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of Deadly Obsession. This review is my own. All opinions expressed are mine.