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Hush #3
Criminal
Talent Ridge is a criminal.
On the surface, Talent has it all. The respect from his city, a successful law firm he shares with his brother, and a beautiful woman by his side. But nothing is as it seems. When the workday is over and the lights go down, the charming and sophisticated lawyer loosens his tie and takes rank in the mob he grew up in.
The elusive Lydia Montgomery changed everything the moment she stepped into his office and his heart a year ago and gave him something other than revenge to focus on. As they enter the world of organized crime and balance their public and private lives, Talent sees a new future. But there’s a reason why Lydia’s called Ice Queen.
As a lawyer, he swore to abide by the law. As a made man, he pledged his life to the mafia.
He has one more vow to make.
If only she’ll let him in.
On the surface, Talent has it all. The respect from his city, a successful law firm he shares with his brother, and a beautiful woman by his side. But nothing is as it seems. When the workday is over and the lights go down, the charming and sophisticated lawyer loosens his tie and takes rank in the mob he grew up in.
The elusive Lydia Montgomery changed everything the moment she stepped into his office and his heart a year ago and gave him something other than revenge to focus on. As they enter the world of organized crime and balance their public and private lives, Talent sees a new future. But there’s a reason why Lydia’s called Ice Queen.
As a lawyer, he swore to abide by the law. As a made man, he pledged his life to the mafia.
He has one more vow to make.
If only she’ll let him in.
First published February 15, 2022
About the author
Mary Elizabeth
17 books1,718 followersMary Elizabeth was born and raised in Southern California. She is a wife, mother of four beautiful children, and dog tamer to one enthusiastic Pit Bull and a prissy Chihuahua. She's a hairstylist by day but contemporary fiction, new adult author by night.
Mary can often be found finger twirling her hair and chewing on a stick of licorice while writing and rewriting a sentence over and over until it's perfect. She discovered her talent for tale-telling accidentally, but literature is in her chokehold. And she's not letting go until every story is told.
"The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure."--Jeremiah 17:9
Mary can often be found finger twirling her hair and chewing on a stick of licorice while writing and rewriting a sentence over and over until it's perfect. She discovered her talent for tale-telling accidentally, but literature is in her chokehold. And she's not letting go until every story is told.
"The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure."--Jeremiah 17:9
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
February 19, 2022
4.25 stars
I enjoyed the first two books in this series so much, I was excited to see there was a third book out. It’s more of Talent and Lydia and I was so here for it!
Talent and Lydia have been together for a while now and even though things are great between them, they still have challenges they’re having to deal with. One of the biggest being Talent’s involvement with a certain organization.
Talent is as amazing and patient as always, but what I really loved was seeing Lydia’s growth through this story. She isn’t always easy to love, but she’s trying to let him in more and making steps that are a big deal to her. I also loved the Wilder and Camilla content! I see there is a 4th book coming out and I can’t wait.
Mary Elizabeth always writes so beautifully and lyrically. This is a romantic suspense which isn’t always my favorite subgenera, but it’s so well written, addictive, and the characters are well developed. I can’t get enough of this series and the ‘Hush’ world.
I enjoyed the first two books in this series so much, I was excited to see there was a third book out. It’s more of Talent and Lydia and I was so here for it!
Talent and Lydia have been together for a while now and even though things are great between them, they still have challenges they’re having to deal with. One of the biggest being Talent’s involvement with a certain organization.
Talent is as amazing and patient as always, but what I really loved was seeing Lydia’s growth through this story. She isn’t always easy to love, but she’s trying to let him in more and making steps that are a big deal to her. I also loved the Wilder and Camilla content! I see there is a 4th book coming out and I can’t wait.
Mary Elizabeth always writes so beautifully and lyrically. This is a romantic suspense which isn’t always my favorite subgenera, but it’s so well written, addictive, and the characters are well developed. I can’t get enough of this series and the ‘Hush’ world.
February 17, 2022
I am so enamored with the Hush world. Not only is it beautifully written, full of memorable and unique characters whose identities and experiences not only intrigue but also inspire, but I also just love the creative ingenuity of it all. Lawyers-turned- mafiosos, heroines who not only run brothers but were once working ladies in it, the brilliant balance of normalcy painted in the psychological intensity of falling in love with someone that you don’t quite understand paired with the thrilling violence and drama of the mafia world- it’s all very intoxicating, not to mention epically novel. And what a treat to be back in this world.
In terms of novelty, part of what made me fall so in love with this world was the unapologetically unique relationship Mary Elizabeth gave us in the series introduction between Talent and Lydia. They are a far cry from your token romantic tropes- and both characters have such sharp and jagged edges that mere reading feels emotionally perilous. And that’s why they are so brilliant. So I’m so happy Mary Elizbeth picked back up on their happy for now ending and gave us more of these characters. I find them so captivating- but I wanted more of them. I felt compelled, but I didn’t quite understand them. Not yet. And Criminal a triumphant metaphysical immersion into not only both of these characters but also their romantic dynamic- just what makes them tick. Why they work….and why they dont…..
Lydia, the former elite escort turned madam whose heart is guarded by stoic and impenetrable walls with a traumatic past who now finds herself a power player in her world and in a living, stable relationship- but her damages are so deep that she still can’t seem to open up to her loyal and patient lover, the man who sees her for just who she is and loves her not in spite of it, but because of it. I found myself connecting so deeply with Lydia in this story- understanding the patterns of self-sabotage, emotional repression, fear of vulnerability that I myself have struggled with. It’s not that Lydia doesn't FEEL, it’s that she sincerely and authentically struggles to express and even process those emotions. And I found myself marveling at how brilliantly Mary Elizabeth cracked this character open to us- in a way that is both respectful of the very fabric of who she is while also giving space for Lydia to grow and evolve. Because one thing is clear from the start- if she doesn’t change, if she doesn't’ grow , if she can’t learn to trust and connect, her relationship with Talent may be doomed. She is such a unique character, one that I just deeply appreciated being so lovingly conveyed- she’s not your typical heroine, but she’s real and relatable. She’s a testament to what happens when you find love before your heart is FULLY ready for it, when you still have your own work to do still, your own healing to explore.
Not only did I deeply connect with her, but I felt like I just “got” why these two work- what pulls them together. There is a kindredness to their souls that is wonderful conveyed, an affinity of adversity, loss, and trauma that connects them, but what I loved most is that their love is centered not just around that shared experience or even their physical chemistry (which is scorching), their love actually seems to be centered around a beautiful admiration for one another. And I feel harder for Talent than ever before- the sexiest part of this book is seeing just how much he admires and respects Lydia and how clearly he gets her. He just understands her - what makes her tick, what holds her back, what she needs. And damn, its hot AF to see a man so thoughtfully construct his world, and their relationship, around her very unique way of operating and existing. It had me all in my feels- riveted and moved. But of course, that has risks- because ultimately Talent can only sacrifice or compromise so much of his emotional needs to try to chip through her armor- with little result. And that makes this story both beautiful and heartbreaking. This is really the journey of a couple deeply in love that still don’t quite work. Mary Elizabeth shows us the real post HEA truth- that relationships, no matter how much love is there, will always require work and attention. And oh man, do these characters do the WORK in this book.
The relationship aspect of this book just floored me- Mary Elizabeth is unique talented in conveying character motivations and interconnections. That part of the story is 5+ stories- not only for its emotive power, but just for the sheer fascination it evoked. So why not 5 stars? Well, for me, it came down to the other “business” - we have a bunch of other secondary characters (that I mostly love) populating this story and some mafia suspense that just didn’t quite grab me- despite the players. I think it may have been because it felt so removed from the romance itself- like two parallel stories instead one uniform one. And perhaps it’s because I’m so addicted to Talent and Lydia’s relationship existential crisis that I found the mafia stuff distracting this time, and it made the back half of the book drag a bit for me. But, all in all, I still really loved and enjoyed this book, and I am such a huge fan of this series and world. The Lydia-Talent thread of this book is a huge triumph- what a talent we have in Mary Elizabeth. And what an unforgettable world and cast of characters we have in this Hush series. MORE MORE MORE!
In terms of novelty, part of what made me fall so in love with this world was the unapologetically unique relationship Mary Elizabeth gave us in the series introduction between Talent and Lydia. They are a far cry from your token romantic tropes- and both characters have such sharp and jagged edges that mere reading feels emotionally perilous. And that’s why they are so brilliant. So I’m so happy Mary Elizbeth picked back up on their happy for now ending and gave us more of these characters. I find them so captivating- but I wanted more of them. I felt compelled, but I didn’t quite understand them. Not yet. And Criminal a triumphant metaphysical immersion into not only both of these characters but also their romantic dynamic- just what makes them tick. Why they work….and why they dont…..
Lydia, the former elite escort turned madam whose heart is guarded by stoic and impenetrable walls with a traumatic past who now finds herself a power player in her world and in a living, stable relationship- but her damages are so deep that she still can’t seem to open up to her loyal and patient lover, the man who sees her for just who she is and loves her not in spite of it, but because of it. I found myself connecting so deeply with Lydia in this story- understanding the patterns of self-sabotage, emotional repression, fear of vulnerability that I myself have struggled with. It’s not that Lydia doesn't FEEL, it’s that she sincerely and authentically struggles to express and even process those emotions. And I found myself marveling at how brilliantly Mary Elizabeth cracked this character open to us- in a way that is both respectful of the very fabric of who she is while also giving space for Lydia to grow and evolve. Because one thing is clear from the start- if she doesn’t change, if she doesn't’ grow , if she can’t learn to trust and connect, her relationship with Talent may be doomed. She is such a unique character, one that I just deeply appreciated being so lovingly conveyed- she’s not your typical heroine, but she’s real and relatable. She’s a testament to what happens when you find love before your heart is FULLY ready for it, when you still have your own work to do still, your own healing to explore.
Not only did I deeply connect with her, but I felt like I just “got” why these two work- what pulls them together. There is a kindredness to their souls that is wonderful conveyed, an affinity of adversity, loss, and trauma that connects them, but what I loved most is that their love is centered not just around that shared experience or even their physical chemistry (which is scorching), their love actually seems to be centered around a beautiful admiration for one another. And I feel harder for Talent than ever before- the sexiest part of this book is seeing just how much he admires and respects Lydia and how clearly he gets her. He just understands her - what makes her tick, what holds her back, what she needs. And damn, its hot AF to see a man so thoughtfully construct his world, and their relationship, around her very unique way of operating and existing. It had me all in my feels- riveted and moved. But of course, that has risks- because ultimately Talent can only sacrifice or compromise so much of his emotional needs to try to chip through her armor- with little result. And that makes this story both beautiful and heartbreaking. This is really the journey of a couple deeply in love that still don’t quite work. Mary Elizabeth shows us the real post HEA truth- that relationships, no matter how much love is there, will always require work and attention. And oh man, do these characters do the WORK in this book.
The relationship aspect of this book just floored me- Mary Elizabeth is unique talented in conveying character motivations and interconnections. That part of the story is 5+ stories- not only for its emotive power, but just for the sheer fascination it evoked. So why not 5 stars? Well, for me, it came down to the other “business” - we have a bunch of other secondary characters (that I mostly love) populating this story and some mafia suspense that just didn’t quite grab me- despite the players. I think it may have been because it felt so removed from the romance itself- like two parallel stories instead one uniform one. And perhaps it’s because I’m so addicted to Talent and Lydia’s relationship existential crisis that I found the mafia stuff distracting this time, and it made the back half of the book drag a bit for me. But, all in all, I still really loved and enjoyed this book, and I am such a huge fan of this series and world. The Lydia-Talent thread of this book is a huge triumph- what a talent we have in Mary Elizabeth. And what an unforgettable world and cast of characters we have in this Hush series. MORE MORE MORE!
February 18, 2022
The emotions will run high in this angsty continuation of Lydia and Talent's love story. I adore these characters and this world. The author will seduce you with the mafia and escort lifestyle, but it is not without it's complications. This is the darker side of that life.
Lydia is my favorite tortured soul. Gorgeous on the outside, but rotting from within because of her self-loathing and haunting past. To have found Talent and a love like theirs, but feel that you are unworthy and just waiting for it all to come to an end.
Talent has been fighting for Lydia since the day they met. He knocks down one wall and she erects another. Loving her is tough. It takes persistence and sacrifice, but the man is dedicated and completely smitten. His devotion to her is beautiful.
This is their story of life after finding love. It's not all sunshine and daisies. They struggle to find their footing, all the while Talent is seeking revenge and trying to keep mafia life from destroying everything he has built.
The angst level was high. Gah...did my heart just break at times. The pain and struggle was real and raw. However, you will feel the love. Love between soul mates, love of a found family. As always, the author left us with questions and a need for more. There is more story to be told and I cannot wait until we get it.
Lydia is my favorite tortured soul. Gorgeous on the outside, but rotting from within because of her self-loathing and haunting past. To have found Talent and a love like theirs, but feel that you are unworthy and just waiting for it all to come to an end.
Talent has been fighting for Lydia since the day they met. He knocks down one wall and she erects another. Loving her is tough. It takes persistence and sacrifice, but the man is dedicated and completely smitten. His devotion to her is beautiful.
This is their story of life after finding love. It's not all sunshine and daisies. They struggle to find their footing, all the while Talent is seeking revenge and trying to keep mafia life from destroying everything he has built.
The angst level was high. Gah...did my heart just break at times. The pain and struggle was real and raw. However, you will feel the love. Love between soul mates, love of a found family. As always, the author left us with questions and a need for more. There is more story to be told and I cannot wait until we get it.
February 20, 2022
3.5 Stars ⭐️
February 9, 2022
****COMING NEXT WEEK****
4.5 STARS
I freaking love the Hush world, but Talent and Lydia are my absolute favorite.
What I Loved:
1. Lydia is a freaking queen. I don’t care what anyone says. This woman is so damaged and so strong. She built an empire on something that something that is used to demean women. She wrangled it away from them and made it hers. I will forever love her for that, but this book made her such a sympathetic character. Made heart broke for the little girl her learned to suppress her emotions and the woman who has become emotionally stunted. Seeing her struggle to tell those she loves that she feels for them broke me.
2. Talent Ridge is a mean who loves deeply without question. My heart hurt for him. Lydia isn’t easy to love, but he did so recklessly, passionately, endlessly. I just wanted him to feel the same in return. I also loved that he had much more an edge to him, less lawyer and more mob boss.
3. These two together are magic, broken, flawed, criminals, but so perfect together. I can’t wait to see them flourish together, finally.
4. The suspense and mob aspect was much heavier in this book,and I was here for every moment of it. I also felt like the spice was so good between them in Criminal.
What I needed more of:
1. I felt like the suspense and romance component were a bit too separated. I would have liked them to be more interwoven, but that is a personal preference.
The Hush world is a must read, especially if you looking to dabble in mafia or darkish romances. It has those elements but not full out dark or mafia. This would has grown into one of my absolute favorites.
ARC review
4.5 STARS
I freaking love the Hush world, but Talent and Lydia are my absolute favorite.
What I Loved:
1. Lydia is a freaking queen. I don’t care what anyone says. This woman is so damaged and so strong. She built an empire on something that something that is used to demean women. She wrangled it away from them and made it hers. I will forever love her for that, but this book made her such a sympathetic character. Made heart broke for the little girl her learned to suppress her emotions and the woman who has become emotionally stunted. Seeing her struggle to tell those she loves that she feels for them broke me.
2. Talent Ridge is a mean who loves deeply without question. My heart hurt for him. Lydia isn’t easy to love, but he did so recklessly, passionately, endlessly. I just wanted him to feel the same in return. I also loved that he had much more an edge to him, less lawyer and more mob boss.
3. These two together are magic, broken, flawed, criminals, but so perfect together. I can’t wait to see them flourish together, finally.
4. The suspense and mob aspect was much heavier in this book,and I was here for every moment of it. I also felt like the spice was so good between them in Criminal.
What I needed more of:
1. I felt like the suspense and romance component were a bit too separated. I would have liked them to be more interwoven, but that is a personal preference.
The Hush world is a must read, especially if you looking to dabble in mafia or darkish romances. It has those elements but not full out dark or mafia. This would has grown into one of my absolute favorites.
ARC review
February 5, 2022
4.5 stars
Omfg I love this series so much!!! It just keeps getting better and better. I am head over heels in love with Talent and Lydia..these two characters are forces to be reckoned with separately but together they are EVERYTHING!!!
Criminal #3
Hush Series
2-15-21
Omfg I love this series so much!!! It just keeps getting better and better. I am head over heels in love with Talent and Lydia..these two characters are forces to be reckoned with separately but together they are EVERYTHING!!!
Criminal #3
Hush Series
2-15-21
February 6, 2022
I still remember the feeling of absolute awe and disbelief when Mary Elizabeth went ahead to throw all stereotypes out of the window in Lydia and Talent's love story. A groundbreaking romance for sure. And now, as I read Criminal, all those waves of emotions are back. This story is epicness at every level. The gut wrenching angst emotions. The sizzling hot and brilliant passion. The heart stopping secrets and twists. The complexity of the characters and the way they consume me is just unreal. Mary Elizabeth can create magic with her words and this story is no exception.
Read Hush before reading this one as that's where this story started and ended in a happy for now status.Grand Haven's power couple is an odd one. Talent Ridge, the esteemed and successful lawyer running his powerful family business with his brother. He is also the consigliere of Coppola family and head of Cosa Nostra and his life is balanced on a knife's tip. Lydia Montgomery, ex escort and now leader of the most exclusive and sought after escort business called Hush. She is a powerhouse of business woman but her past holds her back to let anyone in. Even the man who will do anything for her. Their time may be running out.
I was sucked right back into the glitzy and violent world of Hush as soon as I started. As if I never left. These people feel like home. Criminal was executed is a break neck speed where I was scared to even blink in case I miss the next twist. My heart stopped so many times and Mary Elizabeth was just toying with my feels, pulling me in all the directions. I always say and I will repeat, Lydia is the hero here. She is respected and feared by even the most dark criminals.She has come so far from the neglectful dirty past but the trauma left it's mark on her heart. And my heart was breaking spectacularly over and over for them. Because Talent is a man who takes your breath away. Because here comes a devastatingly alpha man who is edgy and dangerous and charming and filthy and just so perfect and he cannot go inside the fortress called Lydia's heart. Because here comes a ruthless and cunning and beautiful woman who is too afraid to express her undying love in words for her man even when she is showing it everyday.Talk about complete emotional chaos. And then comes the explosive mafia games where every step is a life and death decision. Talent is tired and on the edge of a breakdown and Lydia had to remove the obstacles in her heart. It was just crazy that this story switched from heartaching angst to dangerous suspense so effortlessly. And that curveball at the end..no one saw that coming. So while Talent and Lydia has finished a battle of hearts and empires with so much pain and fear, the war is far from over.
Criminal by Mary Elizabeth is extremes of everything. The intensity and depth of Talent and Lydia's love. The brutal suspense and action. The pure deviant passion. It's a ride I didn't want to end.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Read Hush before reading this one as that's where this story started and ended in a happy for now status.Grand Haven's power couple is an odd one. Talent Ridge, the esteemed and successful lawyer running his powerful family business with his brother. He is also the consigliere of Coppola family and head of Cosa Nostra and his life is balanced on a knife's tip. Lydia Montgomery, ex escort and now leader of the most exclusive and sought after escort business called Hush. She is a powerhouse of business woman but her past holds her back to let anyone in. Even the man who will do anything for her. Their time may be running out.
I was sucked right back into the glitzy and violent world of Hush as soon as I started. As if I never left. These people feel like home. Criminal was executed is a break neck speed where I was scared to even blink in case I miss the next twist. My heart stopped so many times and Mary Elizabeth was just toying with my feels, pulling me in all the directions. I always say and I will repeat, Lydia is the hero here. She is respected and feared by even the most dark criminals.She has come so far from the neglectful dirty past but the trauma left it's mark on her heart. And my heart was breaking spectacularly over and over for them. Because Talent is a man who takes your breath away. Because here comes a devastatingly alpha man who is edgy and dangerous and charming and filthy and just so perfect and he cannot go inside the fortress called Lydia's heart. Because here comes a ruthless and cunning and beautiful woman who is too afraid to express her undying love in words for her man even when she is showing it everyday.Talk about complete emotional chaos. And then comes the explosive mafia games where every step is a life and death decision. Talent is tired and on the edge of a breakdown and Lydia had to remove the obstacles in her heart. It was just crazy that this story switched from heartaching angst to dangerous suspense so effortlessly. And that curveball at the end..no one saw that coming. So while Talent and Lydia has finished a battle of hearts and empires with so much pain and fear, the war is far from over.
Criminal by Mary Elizabeth is extremes of everything. The intensity and depth of Talent and Lydia's love. The brutal suspense and action. The pure deviant passion. It's a ride I didn't want to end.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
February 4, 2022
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Without a doubt Criminal is my favorite book in the series so far, Mary Elizabeth did a wonderful job with the plot, its unexpected twists and everything I discovered about these characters were amazing, there was more suffering than I expected but it also gave me everything I wanted from Talen & Lydia, and now I can't wait to find out what happens after this ending.
I loved reading Talent & Lydia recognize their love for each other, especially her, although their path is not easy, Lydia's emotional problems are a bigger and bigger issue, and it broke my heart so much to read her fighting that, trying to be a better friend to Camilla and trying to give Talent what they both want from their relationship, but also It was very nice to see the small changes that have occurred in her personality since she found her new family, I really enjoyed reading her worrying about her friend's feelings and trying not to hurt her boyfriend.
Talent has his own conflicts too: in addition to his constant insecurity about the future of his relationship with Lydia, he constantly struggles to accept the duality of his life as a corporate lawyer and as a Coppola family associate, and if all that wasn't enough pressure for Talent, he & Wilder try to get revenge on whoever took their family from them. Although I was already expecting this character to break my heart, it was painful to read him suffer throughout this story, but I really liked that he always had Wilder's support, it was moving to know the bond and great love between them.
Personally, I always love stories with secondary characters as strong as the main ones and Mary Elizabeth gave me many of them, all with very interesting & charismatic personalities that complement tLydia, Talent, Camilla & Wilder's life perfectly.
🇪🇸
ARC recibida a cambio de una reseña honesta
Sin lugar a dudas Criminal es mi libro favorito de la serie hasta ahora, Mary Elizabeth hizo un trabajo maravilloso con la trama, sus giros inesperados y todo lo que descubrí de estos personajes, hubo más sufrimiento del que esperaba pero también me dio todo lo que quería de Talen & Lydia, y ahora no puedo esperar a saber qué pasara después de este final.
Me encantó leer a Talent & Lydia reconocer su amor por el otro, especialmente a ella, aunque su camino no es nada sencillo, los problemas emocionales de Lydia son un obstáculo más y más grande, y rompió muchísimo mi corazón leerla luchar contra eso, intentar ser una mejor amiga para Camilla y tratar de darle a Talent lo que ambos quieren de su relación, pero también fue muy lindo ver los pequeños cambios que ha habido en su personalidad desde que encontró a su nueva familia, disfruté mucho de leerla preocupándose por los sentimientos de su amiga e intentando no herir a su novio.
Talent también tiene sus propios conflictos: además de la inseguridad constante sobre el futuro de su relación con Lydia, él lucha constantemente para aceptar la dualidad de su vida como abogado corporativo y como asociado de la familia Coppola, y por si todo eso no fuera ya suficiente presión para Talent, él & Wilder intentan vengarse se quien les arrebató a su familia. Aunque ya esperaba que este personaje rompiera mi corazón, fue doloroso leerlo sufrir a lo largo de esta historia, pero me gustó mucho que siempre tuviera el apoyo de Wilder, fue conmovedor conocer el vinculo y gran amor que los une.
Personalmente, siempre amo las historias con personajes secundarios tan fuertes como los principales y Mary Elizabeth me dio muchos de ellos, todos con personalidades muy interesantes, carismáticos y que complementan la vida de Lydia, Talent, Camilla & Wilder de manera perfecta.
Without a doubt Criminal is my favorite book in the series so far, Mary Elizabeth did a wonderful job with the plot, its unexpected twists and everything I discovered about these characters were amazing, there was more suffering than I expected but it also gave me everything I wanted from Talen & Lydia, and now I can't wait to find out what happens after this ending.
I loved reading Talent & Lydia recognize their love for each other, especially her, although their path is not easy, Lydia's emotional problems are a bigger and bigger issue, and it broke my heart so much to read her fighting that, trying to be a better friend to Camilla and trying to give Talent what they both want from their relationship, but also It was very nice to see the small changes that have occurred in her personality since she found her new family, I really enjoyed reading her worrying about her friend's feelings and trying not to hurt her boyfriend.
Talent has his own conflicts too: in addition to his constant insecurity about the future of his relationship with Lydia, he constantly struggles to accept the duality of his life as a corporate lawyer and as a Coppola family associate, and if all that wasn't enough pressure for Talent, he & Wilder try to get revenge on whoever took their family from them. Although I was already expecting this character to break my heart, it was painful to read him suffer throughout this story, but I really liked that he always had Wilder's support, it was moving to know the bond and great love between them.
Personally, I always love stories with secondary characters as strong as the main ones and Mary Elizabeth gave me many of them, all with very interesting & charismatic personalities that complement tLydia, Talent, Camilla & Wilder's life perfectly.
🇪🇸
ARC recibida a cambio de una reseña honesta
Sin lugar a dudas Criminal es mi libro favorito de la serie hasta ahora, Mary Elizabeth hizo un trabajo maravilloso con la trama, sus giros inesperados y todo lo que descubrí de estos personajes, hubo más sufrimiento del que esperaba pero también me dio todo lo que quería de Talen & Lydia, y ahora no puedo esperar a saber qué pasara después de este final.
Me encantó leer a Talent & Lydia reconocer su amor por el otro, especialmente a ella, aunque su camino no es nada sencillo, los problemas emocionales de Lydia son un obstáculo más y más grande, y rompió muchísimo mi corazón leerla luchar contra eso, intentar ser una mejor amiga para Camilla y tratar de darle a Talent lo que ambos quieren de su relación, pero también fue muy lindo ver los pequeños cambios que ha habido en su personalidad desde que encontró a su nueva familia, disfruté mucho de leerla preocupándose por los sentimientos de su amiga e intentando no herir a su novio.
Talent también tiene sus propios conflictos: además de la inseguridad constante sobre el futuro de su relación con Lydia, él lucha constantemente para aceptar la dualidad de su vida como abogado corporativo y como asociado de la familia Coppola, y por si todo eso no fuera ya suficiente presión para Talent, él & Wilder intentan vengarse se quien les arrebató a su familia. Aunque ya esperaba que este personaje rompiera mi corazón, fue doloroso leerlo sufrir a lo largo de esta historia, pero me gustó mucho que siempre tuviera el apoyo de Wilder, fue conmovedor conocer el vinculo y gran amor que los une.
Personalmente, siempre amo las historias con personajes secundarios tan fuertes como los principales y Mary Elizabeth me dio muchos de ellos, todos con personalidades muy interesantes, carismáticos y que complementan la vida de Lydia, Talent, Camilla & Wilder de manera perfecta.
February 15, 2022
4.5 Criminal (Hush #3) is the latest installment in Mary Elizabeth's Hush series. Criminal picks up where Harlot left off, focusing on Talent and Lydia's ongoing relationship. Talent tries to break down Lydia's emotional walls around her heart, while juggling his mafia family obligations and high-profile law practice. Lydia continues to run her escort business and tries to push Talent away from ending up with a hooker for a housewife. If they are going to work, Talent must thaw out her frozen heart and make her believe that she is worthy of love. Another mafia family is trying to take over the Ridge/Coppola’s in their own backyard. Will the past come back to haunt them?
Mary Elizabeth delivers another faced-paced story of secrets, lies, and love in this perfectly imperfect mafia romance world.
I hope Mary is working on another Hush series book. I'm not ready to leave this addictive series and its characters! I would suggest reading this series in order so that you can comprehend everyone's emotional baggage.

Series reading order:
Tramp: https://amzn.to/34JDXcn
Harlot: https://amzn.to/3LD7hli
Criminal: https://amzn.to/3LDJX7d
Mary Elizabeth delivers another faced-paced story of secrets, lies, and love in this perfectly imperfect mafia romance world.
I hope Mary is working on another Hush series book. I'm not ready to leave this addictive series and its characters! I would suggest reading this series in order so that you can comprehend everyone's emotional baggage.

Series reading order:
Tramp: https://amzn.to/34JDXcn
Harlot: https://amzn.to/3LD7hli
Criminal: https://amzn.to/3LDJX7d
February 14, 2022
Really good and so worth the wait. I love Talent and Lydia and I was a little worried about them during Harlot so I'm so happy they got to grow together in this book<3
February 12, 2022
“You feel like the rest of my life”
Whenever I read a book by Mary Elizabeth it gives me the same feeling, passionate, intense, emotional, devastating, raw and unputdownable, the author is so talented, I don't know how to put into words what her stories make me feel, they are poetic, interesting , and Criminal is all that and more, it evokes deep emotions in the reader, and leaves you breathless
Talent is, *sighs, is everything, he loves Lydia unconditionally, more than anything and everyone, but he has to deal with Lydia's insecurities and the way she always tries to bring their relationship down. Her insecurities and her inability to show what she feels are her worst enemy, her ice walls protect her from everything, the author does an exemplary job narrating everything she feels and thinks.
Talent and Lydia are a mixture of explosive desire and unconditional love, passion and emotion pours from every word, every sentence, I love their dialogues, the way the author narrates the scenes gives me goosebumps.
Criminal is intense; it's emotional, it's deliciously addictive, twists and turns and enemies lurk on every page and that ending is heart-stopping, I love this world and I can't wait for more of it
Whenever I read a book by Mary Elizabeth it gives me the same feeling, passionate, intense, emotional, devastating, raw and unputdownable, the author is so talented, I don't know how to put into words what her stories make me feel, they are poetic, interesting , and Criminal is all that and more, it evokes deep emotions in the reader, and leaves you breathless
Talent is, *sighs, is everything, he loves Lydia unconditionally, more than anything and everyone, but he has to deal with Lydia's insecurities and the way she always tries to bring their relationship down. Her insecurities and her inability to show what she feels are her worst enemy, her ice walls protect her from everything, the author does an exemplary job narrating everything she feels and thinks.
Talent and Lydia are a mixture of explosive desire and unconditional love, passion and emotion pours from every word, every sentence, I love their dialogues, the way the author narrates the scenes gives me goosebumps.
Criminal is intense; it's emotional, it's deliciously addictive, twists and turns and enemies lurk on every page and that ending is heart-stopping, I love this world and I can't wait for more of it
February 18, 2022
4,5 criminal stars
Oh my god.
That ending. I cannot see what happens next. I need more and more Talent and Lydia. I desperately hope that this book isn't their last one. The chemistry between these two is explosive and hot AF. In some ways, they reminded me a bit of Bishop and Madison from. I literally didn't want Talent and Lydia's book to end. I am obsessed.
Overall, Criminal is a thrilling, mafia, passionate, captivating, sexy romance filled with suspense, emotion and insane chemistry. I am so intrigued by Nico. I hope Mary Elizabeth will write his book. And I NEED another TalentLydia book. I need it.
I highly, highly recommend this book, and this series
The Hush series:
➜ Lydia & Talent's story (Book 1)
➜ Camilla & Wilder's story
➜ Lydia & Talent's story (Book 2)
“I don’t know how I’m supposed to be anything but hers.”
Oh my god.
That ending. I cannot see what happens next. I need more and more Talent and Lydia. I desperately hope that this book isn't their last one. The chemistry between these two is explosive and hot AF. In some ways, they reminded me a bit of Bishop and Madison from. I literally didn't want Talent and Lydia's book to end. I am obsessed.
Overall, Criminal is a thrilling, mafia, passionate, captivating, sexy romance filled with suspense, emotion and insane chemistry. I am so intrigued by Nico. I hope Mary Elizabeth will write his book. And I NEED another TalentLydia book. I need it.
I highly, highly recommend this book, and this series
The Hush series:
➜ Lydia & Talent's story (Book 1)
➜ Camilla & Wilder's story
➜ Lydia & Talent's story (Book 2)
February 11, 2022
Knock, knock and happy Friday, this is the day when my fave ice queen -Lydia Montgomery is back, babyyyyy 🤣🤣🤣 Believe me... or not, but in this exactly moment, I'm literally hearing her voice saying : I'm back b#&ches, so get readyyyy, just put Your red lipstick on!
I finished Criminal and I can't stop thinking about Mary emElizabeth's masterpiece. I'm literally going crazy, because I'm craving for more and more in this series.
When I was starting Hush journey, I would never ever have thought, that I will meet such a strong heroine like Lydia. She took me by suprise, and with every next page I could only fall in love with her more. Her character is absolutely unique, and all the angst she brought in Criminal??? It was another level of everything. I still had goosebumps, when I'm reminding myself certain moments in this book. Be careful and it's an official warning, Mary Elizabeth and Lydia won't be gentle. Criminal killed me in so many ways, but You won't hear any complaining. This story is dark but written in a breathtaking style. I was obsessed, and now I'm even more obsessed with Hush, Lydia, and Talent... and Widler ... and Camila.
Mary Elizabeth continues raw but beautiful love story. She gave Lydia Montgomery & Co, the world, where they could complete each other in the most amazing way. Twists, ups and downs - I just felt that everything is happening because more important reasons.
Mostly, You don't choose the family, but sometimes it's the family who decide to choose You, to love You until the end.
Criminal is a book about second chances, about having strength to fight our demons, how to love and be loved - maybe I'm not original with seeing this, but aren't that those things, which make us happy the most????
.
I made my choice, now it's Your turn - JUST read Criminal, and the whole Hush Series, like righy now 🥰
I finished Criminal and I can't stop thinking about Mary emElizabeth's masterpiece. I'm literally going crazy, because I'm craving for more and more in this series.
When I was starting Hush journey, I would never ever have thought, that I will meet such a strong heroine like Lydia. She took me by suprise, and with every next page I could only fall in love with her more. Her character is absolutely unique, and all the angst she brought in Criminal??? It was another level of everything. I still had goosebumps, when I'm reminding myself certain moments in this book. Be careful and it's an official warning, Mary Elizabeth and Lydia won't be gentle. Criminal killed me in so many ways, but You won't hear any complaining. This story is dark but written in a breathtaking style. I was obsessed, and now I'm even more obsessed with Hush, Lydia, and Talent... and Widler ... and Camila.
Mary Elizabeth continues raw but beautiful love story. She gave Lydia Montgomery & Co, the world, where they could complete each other in the most amazing way. Twists, ups and downs - I just felt that everything is happening because more important reasons.
Mostly, You don't choose the family, but sometimes it's the family who decide to choose You, to love You until the end.
Criminal is a book about second chances, about having strength to fight our demons, how to love and be loved - maybe I'm not original with seeing this, but aren't that those things, which make us happy the most????
.
I made my choice, now it's Your turn - JUST read Criminal, and the whole Hush Series, like righy now 🥰
February 5, 2022
Full on mafia excitement and action heaping with emotional torment
Criminal (Hush Series Book 3) by Mary Elizabeth is a very compelling mafia read from the perspectives of both Talent and Lydia. Talent, along with his brother Wilder is in the thick of all things mafia while also trying to manage their legitimate business and romance too.
Lydia is struggling and Talent is succumbing to the pressures and negative thoughts running through his head about Lydia. Her walls rarely waver, making it nearly impossible to feel certain or secure in the love they feel for one another.
While all of this is going on, Talent’s life implodes time after time with threats to their way of life, not to mention remaining alive. The law firm takes a hit, the family business is in constant jeopardy and Talent’s secret is feeding his rage. With no outlet and Lydia’s walls, Talent is lost.
For her part, Lydia is certain Talent will tire of her, but seems to make no efforts to change or open up. She’s created so many walls and developed many skills of keeping distance that she doesn’t know how to make the changes needed to move forward with Talent.
These two have suffered great emotional trauma and while the first book in the series it seems as though progress is positive, the emotional trauma along with imploding events continue to become obstacles.
Overall, the love Talent and Lydia share is too great to be deterred by enemy mafia or emotional trauma. Criminal ends happily for Talent and Lydia, with a caveat; yet another threat on top of all those yet unresolved. Fans of this series will be clamoring for more!
I read an ARC of this book via Grey’s Promotions and am voluntarily sharing my review.
Criminal (Hush Series Book 3) by Mary Elizabeth is a very compelling mafia read from the perspectives of both Talent and Lydia. Talent, along with his brother Wilder is in the thick of all things mafia while also trying to manage their legitimate business and romance too.
Lydia is struggling and Talent is succumbing to the pressures and negative thoughts running through his head about Lydia. Her walls rarely waver, making it nearly impossible to feel certain or secure in the love they feel for one another.
While all of this is going on, Talent’s life implodes time after time with threats to their way of life, not to mention remaining alive. The law firm takes a hit, the family business is in constant jeopardy and Talent’s secret is feeding his rage. With no outlet and Lydia’s walls, Talent is lost.
For her part, Lydia is certain Talent will tire of her, but seems to make no efforts to change or open up. She’s created so many walls and developed many skills of keeping distance that she doesn’t know how to make the changes needed to move forward with Talent.
These two have suffered great emotional trauma and while the first book in the series it seems as though progress is positive, the emotional trauma along with imploding events continue to become obstacles.
Overall, the love Talent and Lydia share is too great to be deterred by enemy mafia or emotional trauma. Criminal ends happily for Talent and Lydia, with a caveat; yet another threat on top of all those yet unresolved. Fans of this series will be clamoring for more!
I read an ARC of this book via Grey’s Promotions and am voluntarily sharing my review.
February 13, 2022
First of all, this is way too short. I was reading and didn't even realize it ended until I got to the last page and couldn't flip to the next.
Secondly, oh my god. There was just so much happening all at once and being able to see inside Talent's head as well as Lydia's and see their progression not only as individuals but also as a couple was something I didn't even realize I needed.
Criminal follows up on the story of Talent and Lydia, a couple we read about in the first book in this series, Tramp. We had a brief introduction into Lydia's past traumas and how they affected her and her life, but this book does so well to really drive in just how much those things have a major impact on her day-to-day living. It shows the struggle both Talent and Lydia have to go through to have and keep each other for better or worse. The two aren't perfect by any means, but they truly are perfect for each other and this book just proves it.
One thing I love about the two is how they view each other as partners in every sense of the word. We see Camilla and Wilder with Wilder being the overprotective and overbearing one in that relationship, which, to be fair, works for them, but with Lydia and Talent, we see that the two are on equal footing in both the relationship and in their personal lives. They aren't afraid to call each other out on their bullshit, and throughout the book, we see so much more growth.
I think Criminal has to be my favorite book in the series so far and I can't wait to read about where Mary Elizabeth takes us next in this journey.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Secondly, oh my god. There was just so much happening all at once and being able to see inside Talent's head as well as Lydia's and see their progression not only as individuals but also as a couple was something I didn't even realize I needed.
Criminal follows up on the story of Talent and Lydia, a couple we read about in the first book in this series, Tramp. We had a brief introduction into Lydia's past traumas and how they affected her and her life, but this book does so well to really drive in just how much those things have a major impact on her day-to-day living. It shows the struggle both Talent and Lydia have to go through to have and keep each other for better or worse. The two aren't perfect by any means, but they truly are perfect for each other and this book just proves it.
One thing I love about the two is how they view each other as partners in every sense of the word. We see Camilla and Wilder with Wilder being the overprotective and overbearing one in that relationship, which, to be fair, works for them, but with Lydia and Talent, we see that the two are on equal footing in both the relationship and in their personal lives. They aren't afraid to call each other out on their bullshit, and throughout the book, we see so much more growth.
I think Criminal has to be my favorite book in the series so far and I can't wait to read about where Mary Elizabeth takes us next in this journey.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
February 15, 2022
I'm obsessed with this series. These characters are edgy, passionate and have so many layers to them. This book delved deeper into Lydia & Talent's emotions while also keeping me on the edge of my seat with the mafia suspense. I NEED MORE!!!
I had put off starting this series until just last month and I am SO glad that I finally dove in! It has become one of my favorite dark/mafia worlds. I love these characters - and I mean ALL of them; but Talent & Lydia's story is one that definitely deserved a 2nd book and I'm so glad that M Elizabeth dove deeper into their pasts, showed their vulnerabilities, all while staying true to their characters.
The passion, suspense, and storyline all add up to the perfect mafia read. However, I was not prepared for the ending of this book and will be anxiously awaiting for the next in the series! Well done once again M Elizabeth!!
I had put off starting this series until just last month and I am SO glad that I finally dove in! It has become one of my favorite dark/mafia worlds. I love these characters - and I mean ALL of them; but Talent & Lydia's story is one that definitely deserved a 2nd book and I'm so glad that M Elizabeth dove deeper into their pasts, showed their vulnerabilities, all while staying true to their characters.
The passion, suspense, and storyline all add up to the perfect mafia read. However, I was not prepared for the ending of this book and will be anxiously awaiting for the next in the series! Well done once again M Elizabeth!!
February 14, 2022
3.5 stars
I really liked this book. I liked it a lot more than book 1 and 2 and it think it has a lot to do with how clear Talent's voice was in this one. I truly adored him in this book.
This book gets the 4 stars because of Ridge, because if it was for Lydia this gets 1 star. He fights throughout the entire book FOR her and their relationship and then its sad when he finally realizes hes fighting alone. I didnt like Lydia in Tramp and this book definitely made me disliked her even more. I get she had a hard life but that woe is me mentality she has is tiresome and in some parts, it dragged the story.
Still that didn't make me enjoy this one any less.
There was mystery and drama but also very sexy times and I love every minute of it.
Now I definitely can't wait for the next one!
ARC provided by the publishers in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked this book. I liked it a lot more than book 1 and 2 and it think it has a lot to do with how clear Talent's voice was in this one. I truly adored him in this book.
This book gets the 4 stars because of Ridge, because if it was for Lydia this gets 1 star. He fights throughout the entire book FOR her and their relationship and then its sad when he finally realizes hes fighting alone. I didnt like Lydia in Tramp and this book definitely made me disliked her even more. I get she had a hard life but that woe is me mentality she has is tiresome and in some parts, it dragged the story.
Still that didn't make me enjoy this one any less.
There was mystery and drama but also very sexy times and I love every minute of it.
Now I definitely can't wait for the next one!
ARC provided by the publishers in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2022
I really don't think this can be read as a standalone, simply because this focuses on the progression of the relationship of the couple from Tramp which is book 1 in this series. Talent and Lydia are not the storybook couple you might think. There are walls, there is angst, there is issues aplenty. But covering all that there is the Love from book 1. There is the connection. Lydia isn't isn't easiest character to root for (though personally I find her super relatable) This deals a lot with Talent's *side job* and it's good to see Talent and Lydia moving forward, albeit slowly. I feel like there's more to come here, but goodness knows if there's going to be other couples. I enjoyed this book the most out of this series so far. I volunteered to read and review an early copy of this. All opinions are my own.
February 15, 2022
The third book in the Hush series by Mary Elizabeth, Criminal is a well written, fast-paced, mafia romance with unexpected twists, danger, secrets, angst, revenge, and suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
I volunteered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
I volunteered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
March 7, 2022
Character and relationship development, but make it painful and raw!
3.5 | This is like a new take on giving a series a kind of novella-continuation to the series with characters that already had their main book, but I think the author did a good job with it, because she stayed true to the essence of both Lydia and Talent, while also made them grow, apart and together. Lydia Montgomery truly is THE ice queen, the aloof woman who nothing faze her but her man's cold shoulder. And Talent… he remains a man who would give everything for his woman, literally the sweetest, but he reached his limit, so I liked seeing Lydia work for him and try harder to show him her vulnerable side, because Talent has done nothing but exactly that from the very beginning.
Also, I love how the whole series is getting more and more into the dark/mafia setting, so I can't wait for the next story.
3.5 | This is like a new take on giving a series a kind of novella-continuation to the series with characters that already had their main book, but I think the author did a good job with it, because she stayed true to the essence of both Lydia and Talent, while also made them grow, apart and together. Lydia Montgomery truly is THE ice queen, the aloof woman who nothing faze her but her man's cold shoulder. And Talent… he remains a man who would give everything for his woman, literally the sweetest, but he reached his limit, so I liked seeing Lydia work for him and try harder to show him her vulnerable side, because Talent has done nothing but exactly that from the very beginning.
Also, I love how the whole series is getting more and more into the dark/mafia setting, so I can't wait for the next story.
February 14, 2022
Well, color me surprised! Mary Elizabeth truly upped her game with Criminal and I'm very happy I gave this one a chance. With Talent Ridge and Lydia Montgomery again in the spotlight, to say things have gotten easier between them might not be accurate. However, their passionate push and pull remains intact except for the fact that their lives have gotten more complicated with each new day. Talent continues to live two lives as a successful lawyer by day and a mafia-made man by night. And by day, too, to tell you the truth. And Lydia, now as a prominent businesswoman who can both inspire awe and fear with just one look, is deeply entrenched with her man, no matter what. But as turf wars start to simmer a bit more steadily, it might only be a matter of time before their world comes crashing down once more.
What I really liked about this latest Hush book is how the pace was a bit quicker and it didn't focus as much on Lydia's ongoing feelings of doubt where Talent is concerned. In fact, I loved that Talent finally gave his woman the ultimatum she (quite frankly) deserved after he went out of his way to show her time and again just how much he adores her. Her self-doubt should not be the end of her one chance at happiness and I was glad she was finally beginning to see the light.
There is a ton at play as Talent, Wilder, Camilla, and Lydia deal with underworld issues and betrayals from those they call(ed) family. Past loss is always at the forefront of revenge and things go from zero to sixty very quickly, particularly in the 2nd half of the book. Seeing Talent in a whole new light was very sexy IMO and it's no wonder Lydia can't keep her hands off him even in his darkest moments.
I truly did not know more was to come but with more unsettled times ahead for the entire crew of characters, I for one am very excited in what Mary Elizabeth will give us next. Again, this one came as a really pleasant surprise for me but I'm loving each twist and turn in this well-written and engaging adventure. Not a true standalone, although the author definitely gives enough of a recap here and there to catch the reader up to speed (which I appreciate!), I'd suggest starting with Tramp and Harlot before starting this one. It's quite an adventure, no doubt about that!
4 solid stars!
What I really liked about this latest Hush book is how the pace was a bit quicker and it didn't focus as much on Lydia's ongoing feelings of doubt where Talent is concerned. In fact, I loved that Talent finally gave his woman the ultimatum she (quite frankly) deserved after he went out of his way to show her time and again just how much he adores her. Her self-doubt should not be the end of her one chance at happiness and I was glad she was finally beginning to see the light.
There is a ton at play as Talent, Wilder, Camilla, and Lydia deal with underworld issues and betrayals from those they call(ed) family. Past loss is always at the forefront of revenge and things go from zero to sixty very quickly, particularly in the 2nd half of the book. Seeing Talent in a whole new light was very sexy IMO and it's no wonder Lydia can't keep her hands off him even in his darkest moments.
I truly did not know more was to come but with more unsettled times ahead for the entire crew of characters, I for one am very excited in what Mary Elizabeth will give us next. Again, this one came as a really pleasant surprise for me but I'm loving each twist and turn in this well-written and engaging adventure. Not a true standalone, although the author definitely gives enough of a recap here and there to catch the reader up to speed (which I appreciate!), I'd suggest starting with Tramp and Harlot before starting this one. It's quite an adventure, no doubt about that!
4 solid stars!
February 14, 2022
'An emotion-fuelled story about love, its boundaries, its tests and the consequences of the actions of those playing a part in a much bigger picture'
Thank you to Greys Promotions for sending me an ebook Advanced Readers Copy for me to read and review. This is an honest, spoiler-free review of Criminal by Mary Elizabeth.
----------------------------
This was my first experience of reading a Mary Elizabeth novel, so I greatly looked forward to as I always do with reading authors for the first time, getting to know and getting a feel for their writing style and storytelling. I was especially drawn to this read because as of recent weeks, I've jumped back into reading mafia-themed romance novels, both dark and light, and Criminal for want of a word, was right up my street.
And what a knockout read Criminal was!
I wasn't quite sure on which side of the mafia romance it would lie, whether it would be on the darker or more emotionally trying side, but I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it and found myself invested in the story to see how it would play out as I slowly read towards the end, hoping for a happily ever after.
Criminal was a read that was huge and heavy on the emotions, as it tackles a lot of subjects which were hard for the main female character, Lydia Montgomery, to deal with as her own form of personal and mental battle. She's both way in-too-deep with the circle her boyfriend, Talent Ridge, runs in, but also very much an outsider. The battle between knowing she can't know more and want to know all that is being kept from her, as per the mafia lifestyle agreement, puts strain on her relationship with Talent. Drama and an emotional rollercoaster ensues.
Sure, I would have liked to have had a little more romance and a little less angst and drama, but those parts were written perfectly and even--and I will hold up my hand while typing with the other here--made me tear up a time or two. I'm not a weeper at books, and it takes a lot for me to cry when things hit right in the feels and when you get to one of those points in this read, you'll know why I had to reach for a bookish tissue. So well written!
There were a few times I wanted to knock both Lydia and Trent on the backs of their heads, but overall, I like them both. Both had their flaws and imperfections as characters generally do, but what made them likeable far outshone their scars.
Yes I jumped into this series on book three, but I'm definitely looking forward to the next read and a continuation of this world.
4 stars! <3
Thank you to Greys Promotions for sending me an ebook Advanced Readers Copy for me to read and review. This is an honest, spoiler-free review of Criminal by Mary Elizabeth.
----------------------------
This was my first experience of reading a Mary Elizabeth novel, so I greatly looked forward to as I always do with reading authors for the first time, getting to know and getting a feel for their writing style and storytelling. I was especially drawn to this read because as of recent weeks, I've jumped back into reading mafia-themed romance novels, both dark and light, and Criminal for want of a word, was right up my street.
And what a knockout read Criminal was!
I wasn't quite sure on which side of the mafia romance it would lie, whether it would be on the darker or more emotionally trying side, but I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it and found myself invested in the story to see how it would play out as I slowly read towards the end, hoping for a happily ever after.
Criminal was a read that was huge and heavy on the emotions, as it tackles a lot of subjects which were hard for the main female character, Lydia Montgomery, to deal with as her own form of personal and mental battle. She's both way in-too-deep with the circle her boyfriend, Talent Ridge, runs in, but also very much an outsider. The battle between knowing she can't know more and want to know all that is being kept from her, as per the mafia lifestyle agreement, puts strain on her relationship with Talent. Drama and an emotional rollercoaster ensues.
Sure, I would have liked to have had a little more romance and a little less angst and drama, but those parts were written perfectly and even--and I will hold up my hand while typing with the other here--made me tear up a time or two. I'm not a weeper at books, and it takes a lot for me to cry when things hit right in the feels and when you get to one of those points in this read, you'll know why I had to reach for a bookish tissue. So well written!
There were a few times I wanted to knock both Lydia and Trent on the backs of their heads, but overall, I like them both. Both had their flaws and imperfections as characters generally do, but what made them likeable far outshone their scars.
Yes I jumped into this series on book three, but I'm definitely looking forward to the next read and a continuation of this world.
4 stars! <3
February 15, 2022
hot, suspenseful, and will have you wanting more!!
I have been craving for more Talent and Lydia, and this book fulfilled those cravings but also had me wanting more, because i just love them so much!
Lydia Montgomery is the baddest there is!! This women is a queen, she’s so powerful and doesn’t take shit from anyone! To see her soften up, and to actually see her trauma break through, in this book, had me almost in tears. Her back story is honestly one of the saddest, i just wanna give her child, and adult self, a big hug. Having to see her suffer in silence and actually allow herself to hurt, hurt me so much… I absolutely love her. who run the world? Lydia Montgomery!
Although Wilder is my favorite Ridge brother, i do love Talent! He really brought the FIRE, in this book! i mean, lawyer turns into mob boss?? HELL YES! To see his tough exterior, crumble, and to see him break, was heartbreaking. I adore how much he loves Lydia, he’s so in love with her. Love how he’s just always present, and there for her, even when she’s stubborn. He would do literally anything, for Lydia, it makes my heart explode.
i really really enjoyed this book and how it was heavier on the “mafia romance”. this was one of my most anticipated reads of 2022, and it definitively exceeded my expectations! things were constantly happening, which kept me on my toes. i was never bored and i loved it.
This is book 3 in the ‘Hush’ series, and if you haven’t read these books yet, i highly recommend them!! i’m gonna need book 4 asap!!
releases on the 15th of February 2022!!
-arc review-
I have been craving for more Talent and Lydia, and this book fulfilled those cravings but also had me wanting more, because i just love them so much!
Lydia Montgomery is the baddest there is!! This women is a queen, she’s so powerful and doesn’t take shit from anyone! To see her soften up, and to actually see her trauma break through, in this book, had me almost in tears. Her back story is honestly one of the saddest, i just wanna give her child, and adult self, a big hug. Having to see her suffer in silence and actually allow herself to hurt, hurt me so much… I absolutely love her. who run the world? Lydia Montgomery!
Although Wilder is my favorite Ridge brother, i do love Talent! He really brought the FIRE, in this book! i mean, lawyer turns into mob boss?? HELL YES! To see his tough exterior, crumble, and to see him break, was heartbreaking. I adore how much he loves Lydia, he’s so in love with her. Love how he’s just always present, and there for her, even when she’s stubborn. He would do literally anything, for Lydia, it makes my heart explode.
i really really enjoyed this book and how it was heavier on the “mafia romance”. this was one of my most anticipated reads of 2022, and it definitively exceeded my expectations! things were constantly happening, which kept me on my toes. i was never bored and i loved it.
This is book 3 in the ‘Hush’ series, and if you haven’t read these books yet, i highly recommend them!! i’m gonna need book 4 asap!!
releases on the 15th of February 2022!!
-arc review-
February 14, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "CRIMINAL" OMG!!!! What an epic rollercoaster ride of emotional turmoil, angst, frustration, steamy scenes, humor, danger, suspense, intrigue, murder, revenge, betrayal, secrets, lies, action pact intense drama so addicting your glued to your seat to the end.
Lydia Montgomery & Talent Ridge love story was one heartwrenching, emotional journey she has a tragic past with walks as high as the sky, he can't seem to bring crashing down.
Talent & Wilder Ridge are a law firm Ridge & Son's by day the Mafioso by night the two kept seperate in the public eye Nicolai Cappola head of organization as where Talent, Wider & Rip his second in command are made men.
Talent & Wilder'd father was killed by the organization his mother was killed by one of their own & Talent wasn't his pound of flesh but it not all what it seems.
My heart goes out to to Talent he loves Lydia with everything he has but she has a problem committing to him even though she loves him doesn't think she's good enough.
I definitely recommend to get this extremely well written story by Mary Elizabeth the best of the series by far the shocking ending leaves you wanting the next book in Hushed Series ASAP to see what happens next so much is going on the mind-blowing ending blows you away fantastic must have book it won't disappoint. PHENOMINAL READ!!!!
Lydia Montgomery & Talent Ridge love story was one heartwrenching, emotional journey she has a tragic past with walks as high as the sky, he can't seem to bring crashing down.
Talent & Wilder Ridge are a law firm Ridge & Son's by day the Mafioso by night the two kept seperate in the public eye Nicolai Cappola head of organization as where Talent, Wider & Rip his second in command are made men.
Talent & Wilder'd father was killed by the organization his mother was killed by one of their own & Talent wasn't his pound of flesh but it not all what it seems.
My heart goes out to to Talent he loves Lydia with everything he has but she has a problem committing to him even though she loves him doesn't think she's good enough.
I definitely recommend to get this extremely well written story by Mary Elizabeth the best of the series by far the shocking ending leaves you wanting the next book in Hushed Series ASAP to see what happens next so much is going on the mind-blowing ending blows you away fantastic must have book it won't disappoint. PHENOMINAL READ!!!!
February 14, 2022
All reviews posted at Tales of Love, Life, and Murder
I loved Tramp so I was looking forward to more Lydia and Talent. Nothing came easy for them so we knew when Tramp ended, they weren’t riding off into the sunset for a typical HEA. Here we see our anti-heroes further in the future and it broke my heart that they still have so many struggles. Lydia’s past was so damaging that she still can’t jump into a relationship fully. Talent lives with constant fear because she’s always pushing him away and he suspects one day she’s going to walk away completely.
He wants a commitment and she refuses so there’s a lot of emotion and pain. At the same time, he’s struggling with his professional obligations. He’s the straight-laced corporate lawyer but also an integral part of a powerful crime family and the divergent roles are stressful. Throw in some Ridge family drama and a few bad guys and these two have a lot to handle. There’s a lot of tension and angst but ultimately the HEA I wanted from the first book so I love the way this ended.
February 9, 2022
I have waited for this, for what seems like forever, and I am so glad it has finally arrived. Criminal is my favourite book in the series so far! I reviewed an early copy of this book voluntarily.
Lydia and Talents story starts with Tramp (Book #1) where we see Lydia, an escort, with Talent, a lawyer. During the book we find out more about these two, and if you haven't read Tramp, you may not want to read the rest of this review.
.
.
Criminal takes place after Camilla and Wilder get married (the first time) and shows a deeper look into the mafia world. This book shows the hardship of loving someone with trauma, and how they can overcome it. Lydia's inner monologue of push and pull was fantastic and I loved seeing Talent's side with how he handles Lydia's hot and cold personality.
I absolutely loved Lydia's character development and how she learns to trust and love Talent by the end. Lydia struggles with a lot of self confidence issues and I find myself connecting to her character as she worked through those thoughts. My heart breaks for Lydia. I liked that Talent pushed her a bit so she could get there, even if it wasn't his original intention. In between these two fighting for their love we get to see issues between crime families and new characters popping up to make problems for the family. I also enjoyed seeing the dynamic between Talent and his brother, Wilder. Seeing the support they give each other during hard times is very heartwarming.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one, and look forward to reading more in this series! Because that ending ! I need more!
Lydia and Talents story starts with Tramp (Book #1) where we see Lydia, an escort, with Talent, a lawyer. During the book we find out more about these two, and if you haven't read Tramp, you may not want to read the rest of this review.
.
.
Criminal takes place after Camilla and Wilder get married (the first time) and shows a deeper look into the mafia world. This book shows the hardship of loving someone with trauma, and how they can overcome it. Lydia's inner monologue of push and pull was fantastic and I loved seeing Talent's side with how he handles Lydia's hot and cold personality.
I absolutely loved Lydia's character development and how she learns to trust and love Talent by the end. Lydia struggles with a lot of self confidence issues and I find myself connecting to her character as she worked through those thoughts. My heart breaks for Lydia. I liked that Talent pushed her a bit so she could get there, even if it wasn't his original intention. In between these two fighting for their love we get to see issues between crime families and new characters popping up to make problems for the family. I also enjoyed seeing the dynamic between Talent and his brother, Wilder. Seeing the support they give each other during hard times is very heartwarming.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one, and look forward to reading more in this series! Because that ending ! I need more!
February 11, 2022
"sʜᴇ ʀᴜɴs ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ. ᴀɴᴅ ᴍʏ ᴇɴᴛɪʀᴇ ᴜɴɪᴠᴇʀsᴇ."
This is book 3 in the Hush Series and if you haven’t yet started it, I HIGHLY recommend you do!
Releasing February 15!
Oh, how I have missed this world! The world where an escort service runs alongside a multi-billion corporation with hidden mafia underlies; the world that is Talent and Lydia.
Talent Ridge and Lydia Montgomery were MADE for each other – end of story.
Together they’re unstoppable - A match made by the mafia gods. Lydia’s head just has to catch up with her heart.
We are reminded of just how sweet Talent Ridge is. He worships her.
“sʜᴇ's ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ʙʀᴇᴀᴛʜ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ɪ ʙʀᴇᴀᴛʜᴇ, ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ɪ ᴄᴀɴ'ᴛ ɢᴇᴛ ᴀᴡᴀʏ ғʀᴏᴍ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ᴅᴏɴ'ᴛ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ʜᴏᴡ ɪ'ᴍ sᴜᴘᴘᴏsᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴀɴʏᴛʜɪɴɢ ʙᴜᴛ ʜᴇʀs.”
Lydia Montgomery is Queen. She will take on anyone and do so head on wearing red lipstick - including RIP Alessi. But she still feels like she's not worthy of Talent’s love; like she will only ever be her past. It’s hard for her to show her feelings and be vulnerable; and that girl RIPED my heart out.
Mary went from spicy to brake-your-heart so fast I think she heard me cussing from Canada! 🤣🤭
I LOVE this world, these characters and the dynamics between them all.
I was so excited when this book was announced and I will take anything she coming up!
Read this series! You will be blown away.
“sʜᴇ's ᴛʜᴇ sᴜɴ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪ'ᴍ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘʟᴀɴᴇᴛ ɢᴏɪɴɢ ᴀʀᴏᴜɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴇɴᴛᴇʀ ᴏғ ᴛʜᴇ ᴜɴɪᴠᴇʀsᴇ.”
This is book 3 in the Hush Series and if you haven’t yet started it, I HIGHLY recommend you do!
Releasing February 15!
Oh, how I have missed this world! The world where an escort service runs alongside a multi-billion corporation with hidden mafia underlies; the world that is Talent and Lydia.
Talent Ridge and Lydia Montgomery were MADE for each other – end of story.
Together they’re unstoppable - A match made by the mafia gods. Lydia’s head just has to catch up with her heart.
We are reminded of just how sweet Talent Ridge is. He worships her.
“sʜᴇ's ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ʙʀᴇᴀᴛʜ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ɪ ʙʀᴇᴀᴛʜᴇ, ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ɪ ᴄᴀɴ'ᴛ ɢᴇᴛ ᴀᴡᴀʏ ғʀᴏᴍ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ᴅᴏɴ'ᴛ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ʜᴏᴡ ɪ'ᴍ sᴜᴘᴘᴏsᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴀɴʏᴛʜɪɴɢ ʙᴜᴛ ʜᴇʀs.”
Lydia Montgomery is Queen. She will take on anyone and do so head on wearing red lipstick - including RIP Alessi. But she still feels like she's not worthy of Talent’s love; like she will only ever be her past. It’s hard for her to show her feelings and be vulnerable; and that girl RIPED my heart out.
Mary went from spicy to brake-your-heart so fast I think she heard me cussing from Canada! 🤣🤭
I LOVE this world, these characters and the dynamics between them all.
I was so excited when this book was announced and I will take anything she coming up!
Read this series! You will be blown away.
“sʜᴇ's ᴛʜᴇ sᴜɴ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪ'ᴍ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘʟᴀɴᴇᴛ ɢᴏɪɴɢ ᴀʀᴏᴜɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴇɴᴛᴇʀ ᴏғ ᴛʜᴇ ᴜɴɪᴠᴇʀsᴇ.”
February 16, 2022
Lydia, Talent, Camilla, and Wilder are all back and bonds are tested and pushed in this book!
Lydia has alway built a wall around herself she is one of the most fearless heroine I have ever read, at times in can also make her selfish. Talent has always pushed back slowly tearing brick by brick down and in this book we learn how much can Talent really take. Talent and Lydia relationship is not like Wilder and Camilla, it is more work/more fights. Talent is working hard to protect Lydia but his enemies are back and secrets begin to form. Lydia is a workaholic running Hush and nobody will step in her way of building the business the way she wants. Lydia past comes back to haunt her and it affect her relationship with Talent in a way we haven't seen before. Lydia in this book changes slowly and she revisit her past showing more of who she was.
I missed Lydia and Talent, their story still had much more to go and this felt bittersweet seeing them change and fight for each other.
Lydia has alway built a wall around herself she is one of the most fearless heroine I have ever read, at times in can also make her selfish. Talent has always pushed back slowly tearing brick by brick down and in this book we learn how much can Talent really take. Talent and Lydia relationship is not like Wilder and Camilla, it is more work/more fights. Talent is working hard to protect Lydia but his enemies are back and secrets begin to form. Lydia is a workaholic running Hush and nobody will step in her way of building the business the way she wants. Lydia past comes back to haunt her and it affect her relationship with Talent in a way we haven't seen before. Lydia in this book changes slowly and she revisit her past showing more of who she was.
I missed Lydia and Talent, their story still had much more to go and this felt bittersweet seeing them change and fight for each other.
February 15, 2022
Talent and Lydia's story steps up in its intensity in Criminal, if your passion is the mafia genre and you like a couple that break the mold then the Hush series is for you.
Talent and Lydia are a complex couple and there is doubt this is one hell of a powerful couple. The Hush series once again delivers on all fronts, the family dynamics are second to none and I love how Mary Elizabeth gives as much time to her secondary characters as she does to the main ones, ensuring the reader gets to grips with this complex family, Talent the man with two sides the lawyer and the mafia all rolled two in one unique person. Lydia the woman he loves to almost an obsession but with her past, he worries if he will lose her. Criminal brings Lydia into her own, a deeply loyal woman, but we get to see the compassionate side to, her friendship with Camilla is just perfectly written and all wrapped around the ongoing blood, murder, and death that only a good mafia story can bring.
February 15, 2022
✨ARC Review ✨
***
Thank you to Mary Elizabeth and Grey's Promotions for the ARC to review.
***
After reading the first two books in The Hush series, I could not wait for Criminal. I loved Camilla and Wilder but was ready for more of Lydia and Talent. This book was great. I really loved how Lydia and Talent are still facing their demons. They are nowhere near perfect and that makes the story so relatable. I loved the storyline and getting to know more of the Mafia family. The writing was amazing and I really liked getting to know more about the other characters. I definitely saw opportunity for other stories like RIP's and Vera's. This book has lots of twists and turns and I cannot wait for more.
***
⭐⭐⭐⭐
***
Thank you to Mary Elizabeth and Grey's Promotions for the ARC to review.
***
After reading the first two books in The Hush series, I could not wait for Criminal. I loved Camilla and Wilder but was ready for more of Lydia and Talent. This book was great. I really loved how Lydia and Talent are still facing their demons. They are nowhere near perfect and that makes the story so relatable. I loved the storyline and getting to know more of the Mafia family. The writing was amazing and I really liked getting to know more about the other characters. I definitely saw opportunity for other stories like RIP's and Vera's. This book has lots of twists and turns and I cannot wait for more.
***
⭐⭐⭐⭐
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