Raylan and Riona. The match you wouldn’t think of but it’s works.
I have the same feeling as I did with my previous Sophie Lark review. The culmination of suspense and then boom, he 😵😵. It feels to abrupt to me.
I still enjoyed the story and the spice is nice.
I enjoyed getting to see all the character we know and love throughout the story.

Broken Vow, the fifth book in the Brutal Birthright series follows eldest Griffin daughter, Riona as she is hunted down. As readers, we were introduced to Raylan in the previous book when he was recruited to help Dante. He was also a soldier and has a love/hate banter with Riona after previously meeting. The two are reunited when someone tries to kill Riona and from then on he sticks to her like glue, an easy job for Raylan as he loves picking at her. This is a great bodyguard romance with so much chemistry it’s insane. Riona is extremely independent and closed off whereas Raylan has golden retriever energy, a rare trait for an intense soldier to have. I really liked the blend of mafia and Riona’s more ‘normal’ job as a lawyer. The previous books have focused heavily on the crime family side of things, so it was refreshing to read something different. I look forward to finishing off the series!
I didn't absolutely love it or hate it. It was fun and entertaining! Thank you for the eARC!

I received an ARC copy of this book via Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.


Riona Griffin - a super independent, hard headed member of the Griffin family, one of the biggest mafia families in Chicago. Even bigger now that her older brother, Callum, married Aida Gallo. Together, their families run Chicago. While Callum has his place as future head of the mafia and her younger sister, Nessa, the baby of the family and married into the Polish mafia, Riona never really had a place. Though she would never admit. So she worked her ass off to become one of the best lawyers in Chicago.

Raylan Boone - military, country boy with plenty of southern charm. Leaving his home in Tennessee to join the military after finding out a dark truth about his past. Having some ties with the Gallo family, Dante Gallo calls him up for a job. A job that’s going to shake him to his core. He will never be the same. Nor will Riona ever be the same.

This is the second book by Sophie Lark that I’ve read. I had read Callum’s and Aida’s story and I quite enjoyed it. The enemies to lovers was always my favorite trope. So when Lark promised more enemies to lovers, I was all in! This book wasn’t as much enemies as I thought it would be. It hinted at Riona’s and Raylan’s past but it was never expanded on. To me it was more of a slow bun than an enemies to lovers. The spice was hot. The barn scene?! Ten out of ten on the spicy scale. I was really hot under the collar during that.

If you’ve read any of Lark’s work, you’ll love this one. Like I said, it was more of a slow burn than enemies to lovers. And at times too slow burn ish for me. Also, there were times that the book seemed to drag on or things didn’t make sense. They are definitely best read in order that way they all make sense as a lot of characters come in and go. You’ll spoil things if you aren’t careful, like I did with Nessa’s story. Overall I really enjoyed the book and can’t wait to read more.

Loved getting Riona's story, getting to see more of her personality, and she is now one of my favorite ladies of the series. Also the way Raylan got her and wanted her was just amazing! The most unlikely pair and they just work and the steam between the two is unmatched.

This is the fifth book in the Brutal Birthright series.

When someone attempts to kill Riona Griffin, her family calls in a bodyguard. In walks Raylan Boone, and Riona is not at all happy having him follow her everywhere she goes. Riona is a lawyer. She's tough and always in control. Raylan is just the opposite. He is relaxed, funny, and loves to cook. When a second attempt is made on her life, Raylan whisks her away to his family farm where he thinks she will be safe. At the farm, Riona starts to relax a bit, and her and Raylan start to have feelings for each other. The river scene is "WOW." I don't even know what else to say! The attraction between the two is intense.

This book will keep you wondering if or when this person will terrorize Riona again. The ending was so good! I never saw that coming.

I haven't read the first four in this series, but you can read this as a standalone and not be lost as far as the plot or characters are concerned. I'm so happy that I have the other books to read now. I highly recommend this to anyone who likes a bodyguard romance with lots of spice and excitement.

Sophie Lark has done it again everyone! Thank you NetGalley for another fabulous read. Broken Vow is the fifth book in the Brutal Birthright series by Sophie Lark. It is reverse grumpy sunshine and I loved every minute of it. I am also a big fan of bodyguard romance so this book was chefs kiss. Raylan is my new favorite cowboy and I can’t wait to read more of this series ♥️

This is the first of this series I’ve read - it might be about book 5 and was lucky enough to be approved as I have wanted to pick something up by this author.

I have to say with the mafia, suspense element, this bodyguard, enemies to lovers really had the elements to be an awesome read. It’s a slow-ish burn but the first steamy scene between these two is 🔥🔥🔥. There’s some backwards and forwards between them that makes things interesting in terms of their seemingly different backgrounds and life trajectories. Raylan is a big enough character to deal with everything Riona is (and what she dishes out). I didn’t expect the turn this took as far as the romance element (who knew) but the relationship was one where he continued to build Riona up and admire her for everything she was, and he didn’t seek to change a single thing about her.

For me, apart from the steamy scenes I wanted to see more conversational connection - it was clear the reasons Riona admired Raylan, and that Raylan was smitten in return, but given these were two older, more experienced characters I just felt a little more emotional connection would have made this book absolute perfection.

As it was, it didn’t quite get there, but it was pretty close. I’m keen to see the next instalment about Sebastian, part of the other mafia family.

This book is amazing!

Riona is a lawyer at her family firm and her life is interesting, to say the least. So when a killer is after her, her sister-in-law's family friend, Raylan. A soldier who will do everything to protect his country, family, friends and Riona. They have to hide out in the middle of nowhere on his family's ranch to save Riona. But will they fall for one another?

Riona Griffin is one of my favourite characters ever. Her personality and her work ethic are amazing! She is very much living through the Eldest daughter; which is so hard to explain to people who don't understand. This was shown perfectly though. Raylan was so fun. His personality and his way of showing love had me giggling and kicking my feet. They were the perfect black cat lawyer and golden retriever soldier.

If you’re looking for a body guard/cowboy hero romance with some suspense, mafia, and heart pumping moments, grab this one. Sophie’s books pull you in from the start, there’s a little darkness, some great tension, slow burn… ekkk I just loved it.

Riona is strong bad @$$ woman, and Raylan is the perfect protector. In true Sophie fashion the steam is worth the wait. 🥵 This book also comes with a soundtrack and pictures from different scenes in the book, that I was absolutely salivating over. They were amazing and add so much! Definitely add this one to your TBR!

Broken Vows was probably my most anticipated book of the whole series. Mafia and cowboy? Sign me up. And it definitely lived up to my expectations and more!

I loved both characters so much. Riona, the female lead, was someone I relate to deeply yet admire so much. She's strong willed, career driven - a grumpy so to speak. And Rayan (the male lead) fell first - can't blame him. I liked how he wasn't pushy with her and was very sunshine-y. With the added bodyguard trope, it made the stakes higher but also invoking the forced proximity trope, which is also fun.

As for the plot, it was exciting and well written, as well as complimenting the romance quite well. Have I mentioned how I love that perfect balance? Well Sophie Lark certainly achieved it with this book - 5/5 stars!

Thank you Sophie Lark, Netgalley and Bloom for providing an ARC, my thoughts are my own.

In Sophie Lark's captivating novel, "Broken Vow," readers are introduced to the resilient and independent Riona Griffin. Determined to establish her own identity within her family's legacy, Riona is caught off guard when her life is threatened by a sudden attack. As a result, her family hires Raylan Boone, a charming southern rancher and soldier, to protect her. However, Riona finds herself resentful of his presence, believing she can navigate life without relying on anyone else. Little does she know, Raylan's dedication to keeping her safe is unwavering, even if it means being by her side constantly. As they find themselves secluded on Raylan's family ranch, an unexpected and intense chemistry develops between them, altering the course of their lives. What sets "Broken Vow" apart is the dynamic between Riona and Raylan. Lark skillfully weaves their tumultuous relationship, showcasing Riona's initial disdain towards her bodyguard and her refusal to acknowledge the growing connection between them. Raylan, on the other hand, recognizes the potential for genuine love to blossom, but he understands that his primary duty is to protect Riona from the relentless assassin determined to eliminate her. Lark masterfully builds tension throughout the story, leaving readers captivated by the thrilling game of cat and mouse between Raylan and the hitman, who will stop at nothing to claim Riona. Lark's writing is engaging and filled with vivid descriptions, transporting readers to the sprawling landscapes of the ranch and immersing them in the characters' emotions. The chemistry between Riona and Raylan is palpable, as their relationship evolves from initial animosity to an undeniable attraction that draws them closer. The author strikes a perfect balance between suspense and romance, ensuring that readers are constantly on the edge of their seats, eager to unravel the mysteries surrounding the hitman and discover the true depths of Riona and Raylan's connection. "Broken Vow" is an enthralling romantic suspense novel that will keep readers hooked until the very last page. Sophie Lark skillfully creates a world where danger lurks around every corner, and love is found amidst chaos. With well-developed characters and a compelling plot, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre. So buckle up and prepare for a thrilling ride as you follow Riona and Raylan's journey, where love and survival intertwine, and the strength of their bond is tested against all odds.

4.75🌟
Thoroughly enjoyed it.
After reading the first few books, I never thought I’ll love Riona this much. She was such a strong and complex heroine!
Together Riona and Raylan were a powerhouse!

They were soulmates.
God, they complemented each other so flawlessly and beautifully. They always understood each other wordlessly, had mutual respect and admiration and finally when they tried to sacrifice their happiness for each other’s, I was smitten.
I couldn’t guess the killer’s Identity and didn’t see that twist coming. Along with Gallos and Griffins, I now love the Boone family too.
Overall a well written romance with fantastic characters and good plot.

P.s I loved the Ranch part of the book more. It was so fascinating.

-Reverse grumpy x sunshine.
-Bodyguard romance, Forced proximity.
-romantic suspense.
-KU and recommended.

This was an exciting romantic suspense with some serious heat with the romantic scenes (BDSM). The relationship between Riona and Rayland progresses quite quickly from enemies to lovers. Almost too quickly for me since I didn’t find much opportunity for their feelings to truly develop since they were too concerned about the threat to Riona’s life. The role reversal of the FMC being the grumpy one was interesting. I really enjoyed Riona being an ambitious, outspoken and not-for-niceties character. But unfortunately she seemed to lose those qualities when she discovers romantic love. There was also the lack of discussion between Riona and Rayland about children. Riona was adamant about remaining childless yet Rayland was definitely wanting kids to carry on the family lineage. Not sure how that is going to play out with their HEA.

The illustrations in this series are just amazing! I wish that I had known about them sooner!

Riona is the grumpy mafia lawyer princess who someone is trying to murder (albeit in subtle way to look an accident). Dante brings in his ex-military cowboy friend, Raylan -- who is our sunshiny cowboy hero and who Riona dislikes.

This book literally ticked all of my favorite tropes -- enemies to lovers, mafia princess, grumpy x sunshine, bodyguard. The romance and spice are great -- especially when accompanied with some of the illustrations. However, the thriller/suspense aspect of the book is *chef's kiss* -- there were so many moments where I was on the edge of my seat dying to know what happens next (and not because of the romance or spice).

Thank you NetGalley and Bloom Books for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I love bodyguard romances, so I adored this one as well! Although my favorite is definitely the second book, I definitely found this entertaining and enjoyable. I wasn’t sold on Riona entirely, but Raylan definitely stole my heart <3

One thing I love about Sophie Lark is that she puts in illustrations in her books. I always love seeing them, and they’re so helpful in putting faces to the names. I think Riona’s appearance was the surprising one for me, because I’d continuously imagined her with dark hair instead of her being a redhead, but she’s so incredibly gorgeous.

I just genuinely wish she was more kinder to her younger sister, Nessa, which is part of the reason why I didn’t like her as much as I probably would have. However, Riona’s continued efforts to be recognized by her firm—and by her family—are admirable to me. Being a woman in a “man’s world” is ridiculously hard, with all the misogyny and battling discrimination, so Riona being steadfast in everything made me admire her.

Raylan, on the other hand, is straight-up swoon worthy. I originally thought it must have been his bodyguard status, because I do love my bodyguards, but that wasn’t it. He’s charismatic, and he takes his job seriously. He understands Riona, and doesn’t force her to change herself just because he doesn’t understand her. I love him very much.

All in all, this book was incredibly enjoyable, and I loved it!

Broken Vow by Sophie Lark

★ ★ ★ ★ | 🌶🌶

18+ check TWs

Note: I try my hardest to not include spoilers in my reviews. However, spoilers and how you define a spoiler is subjective. Proceed with caution.

*A special thank you to Netgalley and Bloom Books for early access to this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

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I have to say, after the last few books, I wasn’t sure this series was for me. But, Raylan and Riona have taken me for spin.

If you would’ve told me while I was reading “Brutal Prince”, that I would end up loving Riona, I wouldn’t have believed you. But, I actually think she’s my favorite character so far. I loved how much of a baddie she was, and the way she was only soft for Raylan. Which is a trope that is stereotypically male.

Don’t even get me started on Raylan. He’s such a dreamboat. The protectiveness and the way that he broke down Riona’s walls made me swoon. I lived for their interactions.

This book, and the series as a whole, is more character driven than plot driven. So, if that’s not your cup of tea, this might not be for you. But, if you love a story with huge character evolutions where plot is more background, this is definitely for you.

I’m so looking forward to finally getting to read more about Sebastian.

Series Ratings:

Brutal Prince— 4 Stars
Stolen Heir— 4 Stars
Savage Lover— 3.5 Stars
Bloody Heart— 3 Stars

Every time I read a Sophie Lark book, I feel like I’m watching an amazing TV show!! The drama is absolutely delectable and the romance keeps you hooked all the way through the story. Add the mafia world into the mix, and you have a rich, heart pounding read! I highly recommend this series to anyone looking to branch into the mafia romance genre with relatable characters and a sizzling romance!

Thank you NetGalley for this arc in return for an honest review.

This was not for me. If I see the words “creamy skin” one more time I will vomit. This mafia book forgot it was a Mafia books for 50% of it. It just wasn’t giving anything at all.

Broken Vow by Sophie Lark is the fifth installment of the Brutal Birthright series. We follow Riona Griffin, a tough lawyer from a mafia family who works hard to make an impact in the world and for her family. Life changes suddenly when a hitman attacks Riona, and she barely makes it out alive. Raylan, a rancher turned soldier, is called in to keep Riona safe while the family hunts for the hitman and individual who planned the attacks.

In Broken Vow, Riona and Raylan are not just intelligent and caring but characters with depth and emotional complexity. Their journey together, filled with challenges and growth, makes for a truly immersive read. The book beautifully balances sweet moments of emotional connection with spicy sexual scenes, creating a perfect blend for a romance novel.

Here are a few additional reasons that I loved this book. I have yet to read the first four books, but I was able to enjoy Broken Vow without a ton of background information. I plan on reading the first four now that I have enjoyed this novel so much. Lark nailed all the tropes I love, which may be a turn-off to other readers, but it was perfect for me. I love the mafia and cowboy romances, and having them set together is fabulous. I am also automatically sold on the grumpy x sunshine and he falls first.

The one negative that stood out was that the storyline was predictable. I was able to call everything that happened. While it was a great storyline and plot, I wanted more from Riona's story.

Overall, I would rate Broken Vow by Sophie Lark a 4 out of 5 stars. If spice, cowboys, and mafia are your favorite things, I highly recommend reading. Thank you to Sophie Lark, Sourcebooks Bloom Books, and NetGalley for a copy of Broken Vow for a voluntary and honest review.

Broken Vow is officially my second favourite in this series, so far! If you love either mafia romance or cowboy romance, this one is both!

Check out my more detailed thoughts below…
Characters: Riona Griffin’s story has been one of my most anticipated since I started reading the Brutal Birthright series. I knew early on I was going to love Riona, in the other instalments she is presented as the workaholic, ice queen sister to Griffin. Being in her head allows the reader to really understand how she balances her fierceness and determination with a whole lot more to it. She’s one of Sophie Lark’s most flushed-out characters, Riona is so focused on taking care of everyone else and her career that she has little left to care for herself. Enter Raylan, her new bodyguard and a bit of a cowboy! I loved him and his family so much, he is a very different hero for this series as he is the first and only one who is not in the mafia directly himself. Rather, he is hired to be Riona’s bodyguard because her life is in danger. He was the perfect counterpart to Riona, ready to match her fierceness.
Setting: The setting is such a fun part of Broken Vow. Early on it is apparent that the city of Chicago is not safe enough for Riona so they must escape to Raylan’s family ranch. I loved the little, small-town cowboy romance inside a larger mafia romance series, it was like an escape inside an escape.
Pacing: Sophie Lark writes these incredibly easy to breeze through books. This series is just so damn bingeable to read, I basically read Broken Vow back-to-back with Bloody Heart in the same night. The pacing is so strong in the first two thirds, due to their length these books often need to be wrapped up rather quickly at the end. Yet I can overlook that in the instalments that really shine bright like this one and Brutal Prince.
Romance: The relationship is very opposites attract, with grumpy sunshine vibes. Riona is the grump, and Raylan is the sunshine. Both characters really push each other because of this and bring out the best in each other. The sex scenes in this book are on another level for this series, with some light BDSM elements for those who are into reading that. Of course, I have always been a sucker for bodyguard romance in each and every form it has come in and this was a great take on it.