This dark mafia romance was everything! I devoured it! It had everything you would want: love, romance, spice, violence, suspense, chemistry, banter, and awesome MCs.

Lucian was so great; he’s added to my list as one of my favourite book boyfriends. He may have started off with ill intentions, but is redeemed almost instantly with lust at first sight when meeting Scarlett. These two have an explosive first meeting that was epic! Their fight was full of sexual tension and great banter that continued throughout the book. As much as Lucian comes off as some mafia bad guy, underneath that persona he is a loveable, adorable, caring man who would burn the world down for Scarlett. He is patient with her and understanding, and I loved the kindness he showed.

My heart broke for Scarlett. She had such a traumatic past, trying to survive and also hope for a better future. I’m so glad she found that happiness, and it was great to see her learn what she is capable of and embrace her sexuality. I loved Lucian and Scarlett, and when they finally came together it was explosive. I’m also glad they stuck together — no third-act breakup, no conflict. They chose each other, and they were epic.

There were some questions that still needed answering, and I can’t wait for more books in the series to find the answers. Bring on more mafia romance!

I just finished Eyes of the Unholy and wow… I am not okay. This book consumed me. Body, mind, and soul.

From the very first chapter, I was pulled into a world that felt dangerous, intoxicating, and impossible to walk away from. The tension? Suffocating in the best way. The chemistry? Absolutely feral. Every glance, every touch, every whispered threat had my heart racing.

Lucian… that man is darkness wrapped in control and quiet intensity. He’s ruthless when he needs to be, protective in a way that makes you weak in the knees, and layered with so much depth that peeling him back felt like unraveling something sacred. And Scarlett? She is strength and fire and vulnerability all tangled together. She doesn’t just survive the darkness — she stares it down.

Together, they are explosive. Twisted. Passionate. But also unexpectedly tender. Beneath all the chaos and intensity is a love story that feels raw and earned. The kind that hurts before it heals.

Lucian and Scarlett will always hold a special place in my heart. Their story wrecked me, stitched me back together, and then left its mark permanently.

If you love morally gray characters, high-stakes tension, and romance that feels a little dangerous and a lot consuming… this one will own you.

I’m still recovering — and honestly? I don’t want to. 🖤

Wow, this book grabbed me and sucked me in, not letting me go until the very last page was read. Wow, what a read. This book moves along at a pace that makes for an enjoyable read and is perfect for the flow of the story. It speeds up and slows down as needed. These characters, you feel as though you have known them forever and no matter what happens you cant help but love them. This book will not disappoint. It demands a spot on your TBR list and you will not be sorry that you added it. It is a must read, no doubt about it.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Absolutely obsessed. From the first page I was absolutely hooked. The pacing of this story was perfect. It never felt like it was going too fast or too slow. Lucian had me absolutely swooning. I loved everything about his character and the way he loved Scarlett. Even after everything Scarlett went through she still came out as a woman who knew what she wanted and was strong and capable. Evie James absolutely knows how to write mafia romance that will have you reading the book all in one setting. Cannot wait for more Sin Syndicate books.

I absolutely DEVOURED Scarlett and Lucian's story! Not only is the FMC is redhead (sorry, we're sorely under represented), BUT we also get to cheer as she heals from her trauma and spreads her wings, becoming the queen she was meant to be. And Lucian? Does not EVER expect her to be anything she is not. He shows so much pride in her growth. He doesn't see her as broken, he sees the strength she possesses before she does. This book had me gasping at parts and kicking my feet at others. Not only is it a fantastic read, Evie's writing is amazing. She lets the reader feel the emotion instead of telling. Her descriptions, her world building, I eat up every word every time and absolutely cannot wait for the next installment of the Sin Syndicate!

I absolutely devoured this book!
Once I started, I couldn’t stop.
Lucian & Scarletts story was amazing! An emotional rollercoaster. I had a tear or two, which rarely happens!
This book is a dark mafia romance, packed full of action, forced proximity, heat, chemistry, raw emotions, intensity, and my favourite - touch her and 💀
I adore Evie’s writing!
Can’t wait for the next book! ♥️

Eyes of the Unholy is the second installment in the Sin Syndicate Series by Evie James, and it absolutely delivers.

If you love mafia romance with an actual plot, emotional depth, and characters that crawl under your skin in the best way, this one belongs on your TBR.

Lucian is the kind of morally gray hero who doesn’t just claim his woman, he reveres her. His devotion is intense, possessive, and unwavering, but it never overshadows Scarlett’s strength.

And Scarlett? She is everything. She’s survived trauma that could have shattered her, yet she rises from it stronger, sharper, and completely unbreakable. Watching her reclaim her power had me fully invested.

The chemistry is electric. The stakes are high. The emotions hit hard.

I genuinely couldn’t decide who I loved more, so honestly, I’ll take them both.

If you’re a mafia romance reader who wants grit, heat, and heart all wrapped into one, this book will not disappoint.

Eyes Of The Unholy is an unputdownable, gritty vigilante justice dark mafia romance. This fast-paced, beautifully brutal read instantly pulls you in and doesn’t let go. It’s laced with high-stakes danger, raw chemistry, and spice.

Scarlett is fierce, sassy, and resilient. Lucian is protective and utterly devoted with a touch-her-and-die vibe. And together—they are explosive!

Evie James nailed it!

*Please read trigger and content warnings.*

Let me just start by saying I LOVED THIS BOOK. I think I actually enjoyed it more than the first one? fe which is
saying something! The pacing was wonderful, the spice was spicy, yet there was still a well thought out plot underneath it all. Lucian is my new book boyfriend and I cannot wait for the next one already! Mafia lovers, this one is for you!!

Evie James does it again! This book was soo good! It’s my favorite one out of the series so far! The banter between Lucian and Scarlett was chef’s kiss! I laughed so much. But then I loved the way Lucian was with Scarlett. The way he cared for her and yet was so protective of her! Talk about romantic! And the spice was perfection! There were a few characters I wanted to throw my Kindle at! Haha!!

I love Evie’s writing. She has a way with words that made me feel like I was right there in the book. If you’re looking for your next Mafia series, then add this one to your list! They can be read as a standalone!

Omg wow! Lucian is everything! I could not out this book down! A fabulous addition to the series! If you like dark mafia romance come and step into Evie James’ sin syndicate world, get strapped in and ready for protective, obsessed men who will burn the world for the woman they love!

This discreet cover is just stunning 😍 and the pictures and details throughout the book are gorgeous extra touches that makes the book just that extra bit special!

This is the second instalment of Evie’s Sin Syndicate series and this time it’s Lucian and Scarlett’s story, we meet Lucian in Evie’s previous books and I was looking forward to his story and I was not disappointed, Evie has absolutely done him justice with this book! Whilst it could be read as a standalone I fully recommend reading book 1, eyes on you, first to fully appreciate the overarching plot spanning across the series.

Lucian is drawn into a world he doesn’t necessarily want to be a part of but now he’s in it he is absolutely where he belongs and is thriving in a world of power built on loyalty. It’s intense, dangerous, dark and violent. He’s morally grey, lethal, possessive and dangerous and does not soften for anyone. Well, that is until he meets Scarlett. What he expects to find when he comes up with a plan to kidnap her and marry her off to someone in the syndicate as a way of gaining leverage on her father is a meek, compliant nun praying at the alter, but what he gets is a feral spitfire who fights back and is desperate to escape the cage her father has erected around her.

Scarlett is not a meek passive character and her story of escaping the cruel cage she’s trapped in and healing from the trauma of it is truly endearing. Lucian isn’t a just the typical possessive & obsessive alpha male who only wants to posses the woman he’s fallen for. He is protective, supportive, caring and steady, the way he holds her when she’s breaking down brought tears to my eyes. He doesn’t steamroll, diminish or try to rewrite her history, he holds her through the memories, he’s present with her, listens and supports her and helps her heal. He’s patient with her and helps her rebuild herself.

It’s more than just a steamy mafia romance there’s a plot involving political corruption, human trafficking and money laundering all tied around sinister religious institutions and spanning countries and people ranging from royalty, presidents and wealthy individuals, and vigilante justice spearheaded by the syndicate. It really gives grit to the storyline and makes it so much more than the typical romance story.

I loved the cameo’s from characters from previous books and the teaser at the end for Lachlan’s story 😍 I can’t wait!

At the heart of the heavy storyline is a really beautiful love story that is unforgettable and leaves you clamouring for more in the series. This book does cover some heavy and dark themes so make sure you check the trigger warnings at the start of the book and take care of your mental health.

This book delivers a good mafia romance story, with vigilante justice, morally grey men, emotional growth, character development arcs that are earned and a strong gritty plot that grabs you from the start.

What an epic read this was. This book exceeded my expectations. It was everything I could have wanted in a dark mafia romance. The narrative is masterfully crafted. The words flowed effortlessly, drawing you into the story. The main characters Lucian and Scarlett were incredible. I loved how these two are well matched and how they complement one another. I especially loved that Scarlett had this fierceness to her, that she's not to be underestimated. And of course Lucian, I just love that he goes to whatever length he needs to to protect those he cares about. This one really hits the nail on the head. I savored every bit of this story. I highly recommend reading. It won't disappoint. This book is a must-read for anyone that likes forced proximity, vigilante justice, a morally gray MMC, and touch her and die vibes.

5⭐️ 3.5🌶️
❤️dark mafia romance
🖤romantic suspense
❤️ Forced Proximity
🖤Scarred FMC
❤️forced proximity
🖤touch her and ☠️
❤️he falls first
🖤vigilante justice

Evie James has done it again! This book was everything I wanted for Lucian’s story! The way I devoured this book was unreal. The pacing was on point, and I was sucked in immediately. I love how Evie always writes the best FMCs, and Scarlett was no exception. Even though she endured brutal abuse, she was strong and resilient. I absolutely loved her for Lucian! I loved that Lucian fell instantly in love with Scarlett from the moment he laid eyes on her. I could go on forever about how much I loved this book! I can’t wait for more Sin Syndicate books!

Welcome back to the Sin Syndicate. Now it’s time for Lucian’s story! Lucian has a plan to kidnap the daughter of the mayor of NYC, and everything hits the fan. Scarlett is not what he was expecting. This book was so well paced. And had you on the edge of your seat to find out who survives.

🚩 Check the trigger warnings 🚩

•Dark, intriguing, sexy, and he falls so hard•

This dark romance grabbed me by the collar and didn’t let go. From the minute I saw the cover and summary, I was intrigued, and this book did not disappoint! Sexy, tattooed and commanding attention, Lucian is a man with a mission. What he doesn’t expect is for his target to capture his thoughts and his heart. Scarlett is beautiful, strong and fiesty, and I love the way her romance with Lucian plays out while they put together pieces of a puzzle of corruption that surprises both of them.

If you like gripping mafia romance, dark and dirty, with men who would burn down the world for their love, get into this book (and this series) right now!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the review copy of Eyes of the Unholy. All opinions are my own.

This is Book 2 of The Sin Syndicate. I can't wait to read the rest of the series! I'm loving these books so much!! Highly recommend, especially if you like:
*dark mafia romance
*morally gray
*He falls first
*Dual POV

I loved Lucian & Scarlett's story! I love that the characters from the first book are also in this book (yes, you can read this book as a standalone, but trust me that you'll not want to miss out on the other books!!!)

I love that there's a happily ever after & no cliffhanger!!!

I love also that once Lucian & Scarlett connected, they got married... (why wait?) and he let her in & let her know everything about him & the business instead of keeping her in the dark.

Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Thank you to the author (Evie James), publisher (Three Sided Publishing, Inc) & Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

I absolutely loved this book! I grew up in the church and remember when my view of it just broke. Obviously completely different from the main character, but there are times I wish I could be her and work towards revealing the deep dark secrets. On top of that, the chemistry and relationship the author builds is just so strong and so believable, I can’t wait to read more from this author. This is my first book of hers, it’s an interconnected standalone that follows the main couple but didn’t leave you with questions about what’s going on like some can. Can’t wait to continue this series :D

Book 2 of the Sin Syndicate did not disappoint!
Forced proximity and enemies to lovers but with a twist! Our FMC is a NUN! Scarlett is being used by her scummy politically corrupt father for his image.... and Lucian needs her for leverage. To protect his found family in the syndicate, his first job is to grab Scarlett from the church, but she's had enough of being used by others. Sparks fllllyyy in this book, and the feelings are so raw between Scar and Lucian who will protect her at all costs and give her the and freedom she deserves.

I did NOT miss the subtle nods to what is currently happening in our world today with a certain island and women and girls being used by the rich and powerful. It felt like a tastey morsel with the Easter eggs. Chefs kiss

Thank you to Evie James for the ARC provided through netgalley!

I enjoyed reading this book and getting to know the characters. This is a first read from this author and I devoured this book.

In Eyes of the Unholy by Evie James, I found myself becoming deeply emotionally attached to the characters because of how raw and authentic their struggles felt. The author does an incredible job of revealing their fears, flaws, and growth in a way that made me root for them and feel their pain and triumphs as if they were real people. By the end, I wasn’t just reading their story, I was fully invested in their journeys. This book was both powerful and hard to put down.

Book 2 from Evie James
Can be read as book 2 in the series or as a stand alone..
This book had everything I wanted out of a dark romance, morally dark mmc, sweet fmc, lots of action

Eyes of the unholy was a sexy , tragic love story. I devoured it in one day. I absolutely loved the story and the authors writing style.

Eyes of the Unholy takes everything that made this world addictive and pushes it deeper into emotional intensity, darker tension, and higher stakes.
Lucian is a fascinating character because he embodies contradiction. He’s ruthless, morally gray, and unflinching when it comes to violence — yet when it comes to her, there’s a softness beneath the brutality that feels completely earned. That duality is what makes him so compelling. He’s capable of destruction, but with her, there’s restraint. Protection. Devotion.
The tension in this story is sharp from the start. The chemistry between the characters is darker, heavier, and layered with the kind of emotional weight that makes every interaction feel charged. The “touch her and die” energy is undeniable, but what stood out most was how that possessiveness is balanced with vulnerability. Lucian isn’t just dangerous — he’s deeply invested.
What I loved most about this book is the contrast in Lucian himself: a man capable of brutality who handles the woman he loves like she’s fragile, like she matters. That complexity gives the romance real depth and makes the emotional payoff feel earned rather than rushed.
The pacing keeps the tension simmering while the stakes continue to rise, creating a story that feels intense, consuming, and impossible to put down.
High heat. High stakes. And a love that feels dangerous in the best possible way.
Lucian doesn’t just fall — he chooses. And once he does, there’s no turning back.

Eyes of the Unholy by Evie James is a chilling, immersive read that sinks its claws in early and refuses to let go. From the first page, there’s a sense of unease that lingers beneath the surface, building into something far more intense and unforgettable.

The atmosphere is one of the book’s greatest strengths—dark, eerie, and layered with tension. Every scene feels charged, as if something dangerous is always just out of sight. The story leans into its unsettling elements in a way that feels deliberate and compelling, pulling you deeper with each chapter.

The characters are complex and compelling, shaped by their pasts and driven by motivations that feel both raw and believable. There’s a psychological edge to the story that adds depth, making the stakes feel personal as well as high. As the narrative unfolds, the lines between right and wrong blur in a way that keeps you constantly questioning what’s really happening.

The pacing is tight and addictive, balancing suspense, emotional weight, and shocking moments that land with impact. Twists are woven in seamlessly, keeping the story unpredictable without feeling forced.

Overall, Eyes of the Unholy is a dark and captivating read that delivers on atmosphere, tension, and emotional intensity. It’s the kind of story that lingers long after the final page—unsettling, unforgettable, and impossible to ignore.

Thank you to NetGalley and Three Sided Publishing, Inc. for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I received this book from the author via NetGalley

This is book 2 of the series. Irish made man, protective, touch her and die, passionate and obsessive. Daughter of the dirty mayor, hidden from public eyes, alone, lost, and doing everything to save herself.

This book was every bit amazing. It was an easy read, intriguing, and captivating. It held spice, a great plot, and so much suspense. This series has been great to read. I love the mafia billionaire romances, and this one was so well written.

I can’t wait to read the next one. Highly recommend.

Highly intense and emotional story which brings into life love that is found in the end of a traumatic time. Great read.

Review of Advanced copy received from NetGalley.

‘Temptation begging to be tasted, the kind of original sin no man stood a chance against… too bad she was a fucking nun.’

Book two in the Sun Syndicate series. This book started off fast, jumping right into where book one left off. Scarlett had been living as a nun, but her story wasn’t what it seemed. Lucian became enamored with her feisty spirit. The push and pull between the two was really well done.

This book was spicier than book one, and it happened quite a bit quicker. Written flawlessly. This will have you kicking your feet. Ugh, when Scarlett was on the counter and Aria walked in, can we walk that back where they are not disturbed! The plane, please, so hot.

The story is still on going, I love that it’s not resolved each book. It makes it really easy to sink into the book continuing on with the same storyline.

🔥 This Book Ruined My Sleep and I’m Not Even Mad 🔥

I didn’t just read Eyes of the Unholy… I spiralled into it.

I went in expecting a dark mafia romance with tension, danger, and a morally grey hero—and yes, it absolutely delivers on that. But what I didn’t expect was how much this story would stick with me.

Scarlett’s journey felt raw and deeply personal. There’s a quiet resilience about her that grows into something powerful, and watching her reclaim her voice and strength hit harder than I anticipated. Nothing about her story felt thrown in for shock—it had purpose, and you feel every step of it.

And Lucian… he is everything. Ruthless, controlled, and completely consuming—but not empty. There’s depth to him, intention behind every action, and that “burn the world for her” energy? It’s not just talk—you believe it.

What really sets this book apart is the substance behind the romance. This isn’t just chemistry and stolen moments. There’s a darker, layered plot running underneath it all—power, corruption, and a world that feels dangerous and real. It gives their relationship weight, making every choice matter more.

The emotional build between them is what truly got me. The shift from mistrust to something protective, intense, and almost fragile felt natural and earned. You don’t just see their connection—you feel it grow.

I devoured the first book, but this one? This one had me completely hooked. The kind of read where you promise yourself “just one more chapter”… and suddenly it’s 3am and you’re questioning your life choices—but also refusing to stop.

Unholy is exactly the right word for this story… and I loved every second of it.

Oh what a read. If you like a good enemies to lovers romance this is for you. One feisty heroine and a hunky bad guy. A cruel dad and a bunch of bad bad guys! Made me laugh in a couple places, and hot hot scenes.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you for allowing me to review