4 ⭐
3 🌶️

When Penelope announced she was writing another Mafia series, you have no freaking idea how excited I was. I love her Mafia books sooooo so much. ⁣
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I. AM. OBSESSED. with Axel and Scarlett.

Scarlett is the successor of her dad's business. He's the most ruthless criminal kingpin. Axel is the distributor for her dad's business. Pleasure is totally off the table, but both of them couldn't do anything about it. One night was all they said, but one time leads to more. What'll happen when Scarlett's dad find out their relationship?
⁣
I love they are so obsessed with each other. That ending though!!!

I'm scared of her dad. Lol At the same time I hope he gets a book, but the cliffhanger is making me hate the dad right now. Lol

I'm Superrrrrr P*ssed! I HATE her father! HATEEEE!

Publisher's summary
My father has chosen me to succeed him in the family business.
But if I want the job, it comes with stipulations. And one of those stipulations is to never mix business with pleasure. AKA, don't sleep with anyone on the job. My father leads by example, and not once have I ever seen him get involved with anyone, not even his beautiful assistant. That was an easy rule to follow...until Axel.
Axel is an expert distributor, someone who knows how to get our product past the ruthless regulations mandated by the government. My father has never had a partner, but he makes an exception for Axel because he's good at what he does.
But the second our eyes meet...there's fire. He's by far the most handsome man I've ever seen, and his I-couldn't-care-less attitude makes me weak. But I put up boundaries and reject his advances.
But this man doesn't stop until he gets what he wants.
One night together becomes the precursor to the most passionate affair of my life. If my father discovers our secret, it'll cost me my career...and it'll cost Axel his life. To make matters worse, I'm falling for this man...and I think he's falling for me too.

Thanks to NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for this ALC!

It Kills Me
By: Penelope Sky
Narrated by: Ramona Master, Michael Ferraiuolo
Series: Betrayal Series, Book 1
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Release date: 05-07-24

This one surprised me and I really enjoyed it. This was my first Penelope Sky book and I will definitely be continuing the series!

This book follows Scarlett who is the pride and joy of her mafia boss father. She has been chosen to follow in her fathers footsteps but there's one problem and he goes by the name of Axel. Axel is another member of a mafia that her father is working with and he has his eyes set on Scarlett despite being off limits. There's forbidden love, witty banter and a MMC that is a total smoke show. I really enjoyed the balance between romance and mafia action. Sometimes I feel like mafia romances don't have any elements of mafia in them and just have someone who is in the mafia but it doesn't impact the relationship. This one obviously does and it makes the story really flow smoothly. I cannot wait to read/listen to the next books and see how the story unfolds.

I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a touch her and die sort of mafia romance! Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this story.

I enjoyed this book and looking forward to reading book 2!! I loved the personality of "Pretty", she was strong but also a little naive. The bedroom scenes were very steamy so be prepared! ;)
I wanted to rate this book a 5 but it is just missing something that I cant quite put my finger on.

"It Kills Me" by Penelope Sky is a riveting four-star read that explores the complexities of forbidden desire and professional duty. Scarlett and Axel's magnetic attraction drives the narrative, weaving a tale of temptation and intrigue. While the storyline is captivating and the chemistry between the characters palpable, I wished for a bit more depth in certain aspects of the plot and character development. Overall, it's a steamy and engaging read that will keep you turning the pages until the very end.

This is a story of forbidden love, dark romance, spice, banter... all of which I like. The FMC is supposed to be strong and independent, but this is not consistently presented during the story, she is strong as long as she is not in front of her father or of the MMC, but she doesn't have many interactions other than those.

In general the book is entertaining because of the intrigue and complicated relationship between the two main characters, however, nothing much happens other than that. It's part of a trilogy and must be read with the other books to have a conclusion to the story (I hope), but since I only read the first one, I am hanging on a cliffhanger...

It's book one of the series and also it smy first read from the author's work, so I was really very excited to read this one. I am glad I did as it was a good one.
I love the writing style of the author and how the author is framing the plot and it's background for the whole series. It was very interesting, I am looking forward to the next part in this series.

This book is everything! I couldn’t stop listening to the audiobook! It left on such a huge cliffhanger that I am not ok! I want more!!
Scarlett is an only child who is supposed to take over her dad’s business. Scarlett is sassy, sweet, and determined. I instantly liked her character!

Axel is the new partner for Dante, Scarlett’s dad. He had an eye for Scarlett as soon as he put eyes on her. He made a move right off the bat and was determined to make her his. The only problem was Dante.

Dante is Scarlett’s dad. He has made it known to Scarlett she should never mix work and pleasure. When he finds out she is secretly seeing Axel behind his back, he goes to all measures to make sure it stops. Not caring if she gets hurt in the meantime.

I can’t wait for the next book to come out! I was engaged the whole time. The character development and the plot were everything. Penelope Sky has a way with her words and just drives you into the book! I don’t want to wait for the next book but I have to!

Thank you, NetGalley, for letting me listen to the book and give my honest feedback. Thank you, Penelope Sky, for writing such a well-written and engaging book. I can’t wait to read the next book and more from you! Thank you, Dreamscape Audio and Narrators Ramona Master and Michael Ferraiuolo, you guys did well with your presentation on the book!

Scarlett is the daughter of a crime lord and she's fallen for one of his business partners, Axel. But if her father discovers them, it could cost Scarlett her career and Axel his life.

Pros:
- Scarlett is a really likable character - which I don't often see for FMCs in this genre.
- Axel is a sympathetic character - which I was NOT expecting but loved.
- The plot moves fast and keeps you interested.
- The spicy scenes are extremely well written, believable, and exactly what the audience of this genre wants.
- The cliffhanger is painful - just like it should be. I've already picked up the second book.
- Scarlett's narrator was spot on.
- The narration was very well done - speed during tense sense and slow during intimate scenes.

Cons:
- Scarlett's complete trust in her father is believable but her expectation to take over the business seems misplaced if he won't even let her email anyone herself.

Overall - the audiobook was really well done and the story kept me in its clutches.

It Kills Me - REVIEW

If you’re looking for a slow burn…. Do NOT read this.

Axel is….. omfg lord help me. I was simply dying throughout the entire book because of how straightforward and to the point he was. And of course that big tough guy persona has to be leveled out by the sweetness that comes out when he meets the obvious love of his life.

Sometimes when books get right to the spicy stuff, it can be A LOT but the way that it was executed in this book and through the narration was *MUAH* chefs kiss. Most of the time it doesn’t make sense and I’m sitting there like wow there’s no way that I could imagine someone actually saying/doing these things with someone they met at a gas station an hour ago. Axel’s approach made sense and the added yearning to get Scarlett to see how much potential she has as an individual was so beautiful and made me feel even more attached to his character.

I’m obsessed with this series xoxo thank you so much I shall be diving right in to the next book ASAP

ARC audiobook provided in exchange for an honest review.

I really loved the male/female dual narration on this book! It made it so much easier to understand who was talking and both narrators were clear and concise. The story itself has lots of extra spicy scenes! Just be aware if you’re looking for something light and sweet, this isn’t the book for you! I would recommend to anyone who likes spicy, drug lord romance with likable characters!

I was immersed in the audiobook experience, the characters came to life through the narration, their emotions and struggles vividly portrayed. The forbidden romance and its intense emotions captivated me throughout the story, keeping me eagerly listening.

The pacing of the narration was spot-on, maintaining my engagement and leaving me eager to uncover the next twist. Each plot development added to the suspense, heightening the excitement of the narrative. Great job!

This was a hard book to rate as for a dark romance I’d give it a 4, story and plot wise personally I’d give it a 3. I wasn’t a fan of either reader, they sounded way different than I would have pictured them, I would have preferred to read myself than listen. I was left wanting more, more in the beginning I feel like were thrown into a story, more back story in general to get to know the characters more. I felt like banging my head against the wall when talking through the problems would solve so much of the characters issues. Huge cliff hanger at the end otherwise I’d probably wouldn’t be reading another but they got me there where I’ll be waiting for the next! Thank you to netgalley and publishers for the read and honest review. Overall I’d say a 3.5 start from me

Penelope Sky can do no wrong!

I love all of her dark romance books with impossibly sexy Alphaholes who are fairly obsessed with the heroine. She always delivers the heat with lots of smexy scenes and fiery chemistry that has me swooning and fanning myself. It Kills Me is no exception.

Axel is the sexy bad boy who enters into a criminal partnership with Scarlett - the heroine's father Dante.

Dante doesn't like that Axel and Scarlett are dating and he will go to any means to stop it.

This was such an interesting twist on the typical enemies-to-lovers story. In this case the biggest enemy to Axel and Scarlett's relationship is her controlling, manipulative father. The real question is why...

The narration of the male voices in this book and with all of Penelope's stories is Michael Feraiuolo. He does a rough sexy sounding Dante voice that I wish he used for Axel. But he still knows how to get your ears steamed up with any characterhe portrays.

Ramona Masters sounds the same in every audiobook as she plays the young strong willed heroine. I wish she had more range for the MFC's she narrates.

It Kills Me was all kinds of sexy and hot with a good criminal side plot. My ears are here for all of the steamy sequels to come!

I was really excited when I saw this audiobook pop up in netgalley and requested it asap! Then I found out that 3 books of this series has already been released on KU!! BONUS!

Axel and Scarlett’s chemistry couldn’t be denied, not even when Scarlett’s father warns her to never mix business with pleasure. Dante, the father, also threatens Axel to stay away from his daughter…. So does he???

🤐🤐🤐 I will say, I very dislike Scarlett’s dad and Axel’s parents in this book, but thats what makes it a good story too! Someone has to be the bad guy

𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸:
🖤Forbidden Love
🖤Family Betrayal (not cheating)
🖤Mafia
🖤Anti-Hero Alpha
🖤Part of Trilogy
🖤Dual Pov

I received an advance listening copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Axel sounds hot and also creepy. I love it so much! I only read smut by this author with these narrators. I do spend the hours listening just giggling like a nerd. Gorgeous.
Keep it up. I devour these!

The Thrilling Saga Begins: Power, Passion, Betrayal

Get ready to be swept away into the thrilling world of power, passion, and betrayal with 'It Kills Me,' the gripping first installment of the Betrayal Series by Penelope Sky, brought to life through the captivating narration of Ramona Master and Michael Ferraiuolo. This audiobook grabs you from the very first moment and doesn't let go. I was utterly absorbed, unable to stop listening until the end, devouring the entire book in just one day!

One of the standout elements of this story is the refreshing twist of a female protagonist navigating the treacherous waters of a mafia family, learning to wield power and control in a world dominated by men. Scarlett's journey is empowering and mesmerizing, keeping you on the edge of your seat with every twist and turn. However, while the narration by Ramona Master and Michael Ferraiuolo is undoubtedly expertly done, I did notice some odd pacing issues in certain sections, particularly with Ramona's audio files—nevertheless, the superb characterization and vivid storytelling more than makeup for any minor technical hiccups.

The forbidden love between Axel and Scarlett is the beating heart of this book, stirring your emotions and leaving you yearning for more. Sky's masterful dialogue and word choice bring her characters to life, immersing you in their world to the point where you feel like you're right there with them. With a cliffhanger that will leave you breathless, 'It Kills Me' sets the stage for what is sure to be an unforgettable series. I, for one, am counting down the days until the second book is released, eager to delve deeper into Scarlett and Axel's enthralling tale.

If you're a fan of intense romance, gripping suspense, and unforgettable characters, do yourself a favor and dive into 'It Kills Me' today. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Thank you, NetGalley and Dreamscape, for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.

Title: It Kills Me by Penelope Sky

Release Date: May, 7th, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

"It Kills Me" by Penelope Sky offers readers a compelling dive into the world of dark romance and family business intrigue. Scarlett, poised to inherit her father's empire, is bound by a strict rule: never mix business with pleasure.

However, when she meets Axel, an expert distributor, sparks fly, leading to a passionate affair that threatens everything she holds dear. Despite initial reservations, Scarlett and Axel's chemistry is undeniable, drawing readers into a whirlwind of secrets and desire.

While it took some time to fully connect with the characters, the evolving relationship between Scarlett and Axel is both captivating and intense. However, readers should be prepared for a cliffhanger ending that leaves them eagerly anticipating the next instalment in the Betrayal series.



Thank you to The Publisher Dreamscape Media , The Author Penelope Sky & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for an advanced audio copy of It Kills Me, in exchange of an honest review.

Scarlett, the daughter of a powerful mafia boss, has been raised with the strict rule of never mixing business with pleasure. However, when her father introduces his new business partner, Axle, all her plans are thrown into disarray.
Axle, a ruthless and enigmatic man, is instantly drawn to Scarlett. Despite knowing that she is off-limits, he cannot resist her allure. As their attraction grows, they find themselves entangled in a forbidden affair that threatens to tear apart both their worlds.
The forbidden romance between Scarlett and Axle is both intoxicating and perilous. Scarlett, accustomed to her father's protective grip, struggles to navigate her newfound feelings. Axle, bound by his loyalty to her father, faces a moral dilemma as he grapples with his desire for her.
Scarlett is a refreshing and complex female character. Despite being raised in a male-dominated world, she is fiercely independent and refuses to be treated as a pawn. Her strength and determination are a testament to her resilience and her ability to defy societal norms.

The backdrop of the mafia adds an element of danger and suspense to the story. Scarlett's father's power and influence loom over her relationship with Axle, creating a constant threat to their forbidden love. The world of organized crime is both alluring and terrifying, and Scarlett must navigate it with both caution and determination.

Axle's character is a captivating blend of charm and danger. His sharp wit and filthy mouth are both endearing and intimidating. Readers will be torn between rooting for his love for Scarlett and fearing his ruthless nature.

Overall, I truly enjoyed this audiobook. The narrators did a fantastic job bringing to life the characters.

I was addicted to this audiobook from the get go. It's a fun mafia storyline which captivated me initially. Then I find out we're dealing with an impressively strong willed daughter who is in line to take over when her father dies. I always love to see a strong leading lady. I put this audio on one morning and basically listened to it until it finished later that day. Of course, there's a cliffy and I can't wait for the next one....I may have to sneak and read the actual book which is already available. We'll see.....not sure if I can wait for the audio.

Thank you to NetGalley for the early copy of this audiobook.