God I love this series but with each book I get more and more anxious to find out who SOS is and it actually puts me on edge lol. I think I’ve come to the conclusion that I just need to wait until the last book is out and just binge read them.

After Dominic and Levi’s breakup, the Seven of Spades is back and causing more chaos and committing more horrid murders along with manipulating the Avispones gang, but Dominic and Levi are playing with fire as they both still find themselves drawn to each other—and their emotions are in danger of exploding. Dominic is still dealing with his gambling addiction and denies that he needs help. Levi is dealing with his anger issues and has sought out counseling, but I can’t say it’s helping. Along with the anger, he’s become a stalker of sorts when it comes to Dominic. Levi has eyes everywhere, and it’s only causing more animosity between them.

Seven has left fear and different opinions in the minds of others: that Levi is the Seven of Spades, or, if any harm comes to Levi, Seven will kill that person. Seven also pulls out all the stops with a belated birthday surprise for Levi. Dominic has taken on an intriguing insurance fraud case and when missing persons and murders are involved, he and Levi have to put their personal issues aside and team up to solve this twisted case. Not only is One-Eyed Royals an excellent read, but it’s action-packed, explicit and violent; it’s gritty, gory and jaw dropping!! And just when you think you know both Levi and Dominic, the tables are turned. Not only do Levi and Dominic shock each other, but anyone who follows this series will be shocked too! The Seven of Spades-Levi-Dominic triangle becomes more ominous as Seven issues a horrendous ultimatum. Will Dominic or Levi be able to make the final decision?

In Cash Plays I was disappointed in Dominic, but Levi takes disappointment to a whole different level here. When their lives are on the line, Dominic’s thoughts hit home. I don’t think Levi really understood what Dominic has faced: “Dominic sometimes wondered if Levi ever thought about what it meant that Dominic had been a Ranger…if he ever considered the things Dominic must have done in eight years of war, or if he ever asked himself how many men Dominic had killed.”

Martine, Leila, Stanton, Carlos and Jasmine are all a solid support system for Dominic and Levi, no matter their problems. Rebel plays a big part in this novel, and we get to see her in action. She’s a big asset to Dominic. This line from Dominic says it all: “Let me rephrase, what I’m saying is that I will not allow this to happen. If you attempt to leave this room with either of these men, I will kill you. If you harm either of them in any way, I will kill you. And if by some miracle of chance my shot misses, my dog will tear out your throat.”

In closing, One-Eyed Royals took on a new meaning for me, and I’m not even going to attempt to speculate what Cordelia Kingsbridge has cooked up for the final installment, A Chip and a Chair.

Cordelia Kingsbridge’s Seven of Spades series comprises some of the best books I’ve read this year, and if you’re a fan of m/m romantic suspense/thrillers and haven’t read them yet, then you’ve got a real treat in store. The titular Seven of Spades is a serial killer plaguing Las Vegas, and because the series has plotlines and character relationships that stretch across all five books in the series, there will be spoilers for the earlier books in this review. And this is absolutely not the place to jump in if you haven’t read the previous books. Go back to book one, Kill Game, and then work your way here – I promise you won’t be disappointed because this series is one of the most gripping I’ve ever read.

At the end of book three, Cash Plays, Detective Levi Abrams and his lover, PI Dominic Russo, crashed and burned in a pretty spectacular way. Dominic, a compulsive gambler, doesn’t see his addiction as an illness, believing instead that it’s a personal weakness he just has to be strong enough to conquer. Because of this, he hasn’t really sought out the right sort of help (or much of it), and when a case he was working put him in the way of starting to gamble again in order to maintain his cover, he fell very quickly back into old habits. One of the things Cordelia Kingsbridge does spectacularly well in these books is explore the motivations and thought processes of an addict, and she shows very clearly the processes of self-deception and denial Dominic goes through in order to convince himself there’s nothing wrong and he can stop gambling after the case is over. And while Dominic is becoming increasingly self-absorbed and desperate to hide his relapse from Levi, Levi is going through hell courtesy of his increasing frustration over the lack of progression in the Seven of Spades case and the growing suspicion of his colleagues. In yet another Machiavellian turn, the killer is targeting the men who beat Levi so viciously over a decade earlier and were never punished, and the SoS’s fascination – obsession – with Levi and the similarities in their psyches pointed out by the FBI profiler in the previous book are driving a wedge between him and those around him. He’s hanging on to his volcanic temper and his sanity by the merest thread, his professional reputation is being gradually eroded and he’s more afraid than ever of what he might do if he’s pushed too far. And he’s going through it alone and without the support of the man he loves.

Levi and Dominic split up after an epic row at the end of Cash Plays, and at the beginning of One-Eyed Royals a few months later, are still apart… although they can’t keep their hands off each other and continue to have sex on a fairly regular basis. These hook-ups inevitably end badly, but they just can’t quit each other. Levi vowed to make Dominic’s life a living hell until he stopped gambling, and he’s making good on that promise, having him blacklisted from practically every casino in the city and making sure Dominic is hounded by cops every time he turns around. Levi has always had a capacity for ruthlessness; he’s sarcastic, abrasive and there’s no doubt some of his actions and words are downright cruel – yet I couldn’t exactly blame him for them most of the time. (And Dominic isn’t completely blameless in the cruelty department, either.) Levi is furious with Dominic; not because he’s relapsed but because of the lengths he’s gone to hide it from him – and because Dominic can’t (or won’t) admit his gambling has become a problem again.

In each of the books in the series so far, the author has cleverly developed two seemingly disparate plotlines only to gradually merge them during the course of the story, and that’s no different here. The Seven of Spades is continuing their vigilante crusade, the city’s rival gangs are still jostling for position and Dominic’s latest case is proving extremely frustrating. Hired to look into the possibility of fraud or sabotage at Kensington Insurance Group, a company that specialises in providing insurance against kidnap and ransom for high-ranking executives, his client is unhelpfully cagy, unwilling to brief Dominic on all that he needs to know.

On top of all the stress of the stalled SoS investigation and of Dominic’s descent back into addiction, Levi picks up another murder case, this time seemingly unconnected to the Seven of Spades, in which the victim has had one eye surgically removed. When a young woman, a high-powered executive, arrives at the station and tells him how she was kidnapped and had the same procedure – her eye sent to her family and colleagues as an unmistakable message – it’s clear there’s more to the murder than at first appeared. It transpires that both she and the dead man were insured by Kensington, which throws Levi and Dominic into each other’s orbits once again, and they reluctantly have to work together in spite of the seemingly irreconcilable differences that lie between them.

Cordelia Kingsbridge once again weaves a compelling suspense plot and ratchets up the tension as the SoS’ latest killing spree strikes really close to home for Levi. But the relationship between the leads is the big draw in this series, and in this book, the angst-o-meter is cranked up to eleven. Both men are hurting; Levi knows Dominic is his bashert, his soulmate, and he feels totally bereft without him, while Dominic is so far down the rabbit hole of denial, his feelings of worthlessness stoking his need for the rush gambling gives him, that he can’t and won’t seek the help he needs. It seems there’s no hope for them until another shocking development pushes Levi one more step closer to the edge and finally brings the truth home to Dominic; and in a brilliant yet disturbing set-piece near the end in which they’re pitted directly against the Seven of Spades, they prove once and for all that they’re stronger together than apart.

At the end (where I may have squealed with delight) Ms. Kingsbridge sets the scene for the final book in the series with considerable aplomb, promising an exciting showdown between our heroes and the enigmatic killer who has so far eluded them. I know there are lots of theories out there as to the identity of the Seven of Spades, but I confess to having no idea whatsoever and I’m quite happy to wait for the reveal in A Chip and a Chair when it comes out later this year.

The Seven of Spades series has quickly become a firm favourite, and while part of me wishes I’d read it earlier, another part is glad I picked it up near the end so that I haven’t had to wait between instalments. I love the characters, the plotlines, the humour, the angst and the tenderness; Cordelia Kingsbridge has consistently maintained an incredibly high standard throughout the series, and I’m eagerly anticipating more of the same come December.

This book was a LOT. I wouldn't say the book ends in a cliffhanger like the previous books, but it certainly leaves you wanting and ready for some ACTION. My emotions were all over the place when I read this and I just felt so overwhelmed by everything. It's the next-to-the-last book and everything is just building up to the big reveal (in book five). I've waited to write this review in a chance to gather my thoughts, but NOPE. I still don't really know what to say about this book, guys. I finished the book in one sitting because I was obsessed and couldn't put it down. This series just puts me into a romantic suspense reading mood every time I read a book from the series and nothing compares.

SPOILERS AHEAD.

This book emotionally eviscerated me. We ended Cash Plays on one hell of a cliffhanger - Dominic got caught by Levi gambling and in complete denial about his addiction, and Levi tried to talk through his thoughts and feelings with a serial killer. We start off this book a few months after the events of book three. Levi and Dominic are broken up and Levi has enlisted a few friends to "check-in" on Dominic until he gets his act together. But. There's a magnetism between the two of them that makes it hard for them to stay apart for long. Levi wants Dominic to get the help he needs, and even though Dominic's gambling hasn't stopped, they still wind up having sex every once in awhile.

Levi finding ways to needle at Dominic is hilarious. I love it so much? Dominic's addiction is very serious and I know that. However, the way Levi goes about trying to push Dominic to do the right thing and getting help is wonderfully endearing....like, working diligently to get Dominic banned from pretty much every establishment in Las Vegas.

Even from the beginning of the series, we've known that the Seven of Spades was rather...fond of Levi. The Seven of Spades wants Levi and in this book, they will stop at nothing to ruin Levi and frame him for their murders. The added twist is that these murders all hold a very personal connection to Levi and his past.

I mentioned before that I thought Stanton, Levi's wealthy ex-boyfriend, might be the man behind the Seven of Spades (even if the timelines didn't quite work out). BUT I HAVE A NEW THEORY. I think the important detail to note here is that in this book, Levi and Dominic aren't dating and they're not actually together. That said...Levi does have sex with someone else in this book. I don't see that as cheating, but I know some readers won't like it. I think it might be important who Levi sleeps with though. I don't know. This guy has been seen almost in passing in the previous books. He's been a side character all this time, but I WONDER. Some of the stuff this guy says and does is a bit suspicious in this book. Especially said person's whereabouts at the end of this book. WHAT IF THIS GUY HAS BEEN THE SEVEN OF SPADES ALL ALONG?

I feel like I just need to go back and re-read the books before A Chip and a Chair releases.

There are many plots in this story happening at the same time. There's Levi dealing with his darkness, the Seven of Spades murders, Dominic's gambling addiction, Dominic working his PI case that somehow ties back to Levi and Martine's case that may or may not be related to the Seven of Spades, and then there's Levi and Dominic's relationship (or lack there of). Like I said at the beginning, this book is a LOT - just emotionally and from everything that's happening. You can tell this series is gearing up for a huge finale, and I absolutely cannot WAIT to read book five.

***Thanks to the publisher for providing an ARC of this book on NetGalley***

This series just gets better and better, I cannot wait to read the next installment. 5 stars for the pulse-pounding excitement packed in these pages!!

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆☆
4.5 stars
M/M Thriller
Triggers: Murder, Stalking, Addiction

Levi is on the case again for the Seven of Spades killer. But he's also hot on a trail of a new mystery when a blast from his past knocks him back and off the cases. His fury is difficult for him to contain and when he is struggling, despite their differences, Dominic comes to be by his side.

Dominic is still struggling. He knows that he is, but denial has a strong place in his life right now. When his case and Levi's case throw them together, anger sometimes wins out. They never struggled in their physical connection, but Dominic knows that he's burned most of the bridge he had with Levi.

This is a fast-paced continuation of the story and it did not disappoint. I am so excited for more. Without giving anything away, I'll say that this has twists and turns that you can't see coming. It can be read in one sitting – which it was for me, because I just couldn't put it down!

Pick this up and read it today! Make sure you've read the previous books in the series, as it will be much better.


Sarah – ☆☆☆☆☆
I love this series but I’m not quite sure I was ready for this book. Between Levi and Dominic’s messy and emotional break up, the Seven of Spades’ escalating violence, and Dominic’s struggle with addiction, this definitely isn’t an easy read.

In this fourth book, Levi and Dominic are both at absolute rock bottom in their personal lives. Both men are self-destructing and even when they need each other, they struggle to work together. This is the grittiest of the books, but I like that we get to see real growth in both men – and in their relationship.

Like the previous books, this one moves quickly and the overarching plot continues to get even more complicated. The mind games get more twisted and the violence gets more graphic in each book and there were a couple of scenes in this one that pushed my tolerance for gore. I really enjoyed the complexity of this story and I love how it moved the series forward.

I’m torn about where this series is going. I’m ready for the Seven of Spades case to end in the next book – but I really don’t want to say goodbye to Levi and Dominic yet. I’ve come to love them both and I really love their friends, family, and colleagues. The Vegas setting continues to work beautifully.

So... my first reaction when I finished One-Eyed Royals was... I might have to knock off 1/2 a star... hovering between 4.5 and 5 for REASONS! #EvilAuthor - It's been a while and that opinion still stands. This author is killing me!

One-Eyed Royals picks up almost where Cash Plays left off, which is both good and bad. Good because readers left Levi and Dom in a not so good place at the end of the last book. Bad because things haven't changed much. They still aren't back together and neither have budged. Levi has found some interesting ways to keep Dom from gambling and Dom still insists he doesn't have a problem. Yet, they couldn't stay away from each other, which became even more difficult when their cases keep causing them to cross paths. It would also be a lot less difficult if they didn't still love each other.

The Seven of Spades is also taking a more personal interest in Levi - at least where his current victims are concerned. Levi has his own demons that he's struggling with and he's trying to keep in check. The Seven of Spades is pushing buttons that Levi wasn't proud of.

I'm not gonna lie - there was one point in One-Eyed Royals that I wanted to smack Levi. I honestly couldn't believe that he... well, you're just going to have to read it and experience the frustration for yourself.

I have a few ideas about who the Seven of Spades may be, but I'm not positive. There's one book left and even though Levi and Dom were in a pretty good place at the end of One-Eyed Royals, no one's really going to be safe until the Seven of Spades is caught. Needless to say, I can't wait until A Chip and a Chair is released.

This was a mind-blowing instalment of what has become one of the best series I'd read. It was fantastic. Absolutely brilliant.

The crime scene in Las Vegas is showing to be relentless to detective Levi Abraham and PI Dominic Russo who are, again, forced to work together while trying to solve the increasing kidnappings that are stealing some of the spotlight from the Seven of Spades. While trying to cope with their break up, they still have to deal with addiction and anger management. But the Seven of Spades isn't done yet with the killing spree, and this time, the murders have a very personal connection to Levi.

This was as outstanding as the previous instalments. It was impossible to put it down. Captivating, thrilling, emotional and romantic. It was everything I could have waited for. The plot was amazing. I'm really in love with the way the author writes mystery and with her characters. It was fast faced and with some action, maybe less than the other books in the series but enough to keep me entertained.

I loved the way Dominic and Levi's relationship faced a break up but still there was so much love in them. They wouldn't hesitate to give their own lives to protect the other. It was so easy to see how in love they were and even if this wasn't a particularly romantic instalment, there was so full of love. It is so beautiful to see such complex characters. There's nothing easy about the situation they were facing and the way they react felt so realistic. They make mistakes, they hurt each other, they simply aren't perfect and that just makes the book so much more interesting. Waiting for the next reaction of either Levi or Dominic was thrilling, as unpredictable as it was the next step of the Seven of Spades.

Overall, it was just perfect. I'm truly in love with the series I couldn't recommend it enough to any reader who enjoys mystery.

This was taut, suspenseful, dark and sexy AF, and I feared for Levi’s and Dom’s relationship the entire book. It showed a different side to their relationship as they coped with their breakup. The journey was so worth it in the end. There was angst and pain, and mistakes were made, but their experiences helped them realize what really mattered, what was worth fighting for, and why the other man was everything in the world and the one for them. There was also joy and romance that paid off in the end.

I enjoyed everything about this, from all the plot twists to all the emotional ups and downs. This book eliminated one particular suspect but introduced a new one, and keeps you guessing as always. This entire series is just the best m/m romantic suspense I’ve ever read, while Levi is the most compelling law enforcement hero I’ve ever encountered in m/m.

The Seven of Spades has met his match and shows exactly what kind of man and hero Levi is. And I can’t wait for Levi to bring him down. I’m excited for the fifth and final book in the series, though I wish the series didn’t have to end.

*Spoilers for previous books in the series* It is necessary to read these books in order!
I have devoured this series over four days and, damn, it's intense! We are treated to crime, fight scenes, hot fun times, and so many emotions!
We meet back up with Levi and Dominic several months after they split up and as much as it's hurting both of them, they both have work to continue on with. Levi with the Seven of Spades case and now a new kidnapping case comes across his desk. Though unbeknownst to him, Dominic just happens to be on the same case but for a client at his PI job. As they continue to meet on the job, they occasionally meet up off the job as well. Both men are spiralling with their individual problems; Dominic back to gambling and Levi being the focal contact point for a serial killer and his rage is continuing to grow harder to control. Several things come to a head - their relationship, the kidnapping case, and the Seven of Spades takes a step no one was expecting.
Wow! If I haven't said it before, this book and series is so intense! It's just on full speed throughout the whole book and you have to be locked in and paying attention as there is a lot going on throughout for both MC's both individually and together. I love how Cordelia keeps us on our toes and always guessing as to the next move of the Seven of Spades. Their attachment to Levi is something that I'm constantly trying to figure out, wondering what clues they're leaving as to their identity.
Both Levi and Dominic have a hell of a lot going on through this book. Levi's rage has always been a problem but it goes up a whole other level and while him and Dominic are separated, he doesn't have the personal support that he came to rely on. Reading him try and survive is heartbreaking but so is Dominic's story. His continuation of gambling is harming to himself, their relationship and those around him. Getting to read his struggles and emotions through his eyes is really interesting and gives you a whole viewpoint on what thought processes can occur in the moment for a character. For me, Levi's was a little harder to read with what the Seven of Spades is putting him through. His moments alone when all things are said and done.....just wanna give the man a hug! It's so much for one man to be put under but I'm really looking forward to seeing how his character continues to move forward both with his struggles but also, he has a brilliant detective mind so it's really interesting to read when things all start to come together in a case.
We do get good interaction with secondary characters. Martine, Levi's partner continues to rock be his rock in the workplace. Carlos and Jasmine weren't as featured as I thought they would have been but we were given so much more with quite a wide number of characters.
Cordelia's writing of the action scenes are quick paced, intense but so good to read that it's easy to visualise what's happening to all of the people involved. The actual crime cases are just another wow! Thinking these out, planning and then weaving in the character story lines as well, it's just fantastic. I'm immersed in it from the first page, needing to know how the whole things plays out! The reason that I gave it four stars instead of 5 is that, for me personally, I loved books 1 and 2 so very much and books 3 and four just aren't quite there. There is so much going on and you do have to really pay attention to what's going on, with several things going on at once it can feel a little overwhelming. It doesn't stop me from recommending this book and the whole series though. You do need to read the series in order as it has an overall story arc. I'm excited to read book 5 with how things were left at the end of this one. We are all set to move full pace in the story of the serial killer investigation and the progression of the relationship between Levi and Dominic.

So.” Levi turned to a sea of shocked faces….”Has anyone else had just about enough of this motherfucker?”

She’s done it again! What a read, what a truly outstanding read. Pure utter bloody brilliance. Thank you Cordelia Kingsbridge for once again delivering an addictive, enthralling, evocative, suspenseful, extraordinary, passionate and thought-provoking read. Your talent for telling this story is staggering, your ability to constantly keep us guessing is mind-boggling, your expertise in delivering nail biting suspense and making our hearts anxiously race is astounding. We’re sitting here in awe of your incredible talent!

‘Everyone hid parts of themselves, even from the people who loved them the most.’

Every single book in this series has been 5 stars, and if you’ve read The Seven of Spades so far, you’ll know why. If you haven’t, what are you waiting for? Jump into Levi and Dominic’s gripping story now! We’ll endeavour to relay our thoughts by not giving anything away because you really, really have to go into each book spoiler free, it’s imperative you do so. Just prepare yourselves for the ride of your lives!

“You’re a cop, Levi. I was a soldier. It’s not the same.”

In One Eyed Jacks, The Seven of Spades serial killer is in full flight. He’s/she’s/they’re on their way to becoming one of the most prolific serial killers in modern history. They’re more brazen, more outlandish, and more personal with Dominic and Levi. Who is he/she/they? How they know so much about Levi, and what is his/her/they’re obsession with him? Well, four books in and we still have no clue, still no closer to figuring it out, and isn’t that spectacular! That an author can keep us constantly on our toes, talking way into the small hours is something we’re savouring from book to book is everything, and it’s been an unforgettable experience so far!

“I don’t give a shit how anyone else treats me….you’re the only one who makes it hurt so much.”

There’s a lot going on in One Eyed Jacks; we’re introduced to more characters, more plots, and it’s a testament to the greatness of Cordelia Kingsbridge’s writing that she keeps us in the moment, glued to each page in nervous and excited anticipation. Following, understanding, imagining and consuming every word she writes. No word is redundant, every word written to propel the story at breakneck speed, yet we never losing the emotion and passion of the personal relationships, the struggles between Levi and Dominic. The human frailties of both men rip at our hearts, leaving us gutted and fearful of their torment, optimistic and full of hope for their future. Oh, what a roller coaster they’ve taken us on!

‘Dominic was his bashert, his soul mate. Without him, Levi felt like he’d been gut-shot and it was taking months to bleed out.’

Cordelia Kingsbridge weaves stories within stories through The Seven of Spades series, focusing primarily on a particular gruesome, brutal murder/incident through each book, yet taunting from behind the curtain, always ever present is the Seven of Spades killer, a menacing, fascinating and formidable force, who keeps us, and those around him on our toes. We’re completely engrossed in the element of surprise, the twists, turns, and heartaches we encounter at every juncture!

‘Levi had two coping mechanisms for stress: violence and sex.’

At the heart of the story is the relationship between Levi and Dominic, two opposites, two vulnerable men with a deep love, a tonne of baggage, and obstacles constantly thrown their way. Levi, the straight-shooting police officer with an explosive temper, a powder keg of emotions, and the big burly ex-Ranger, Dominic with a heart of gold are a force to be reckoned with. Their passion is searing, their love immense, and their struggles aplenty. These two blokes steamed up the pages and messed with our hearts big time!

‘Dominic had always loved Levi’s hard edges, his acid tongue, his ruthless streak. Underneath all that prickly sarcasm lay an achingly compassionate heart …..Dominic had enjoyed peeling away all those layers, had relished the knowledge that he was one of the few people in the world Levi trust enough to be vulnerable with. ‘

We can’t get enough of these books and have vowed to sit and re-read the series in its entirety once it’s complete. We don’t think we’ll ever tire of this story which Cordelia Kingsbridge has so mind-blowingly and meticulously brought to life, and don’t even get us started on the artistry of those thrilling fight scenes! Wow! This has easily become one of our all-time favourite series, no question. When that last book hits our Kindles it will be like winning the lottery! We can’t wait to uncover the killer’s identity and see where the last book leads us. The wait is going to be excruciating but oh so worth it!

“Because love isn’t rational. It drives us to do inexplicable things.”

“So.” Levi turned to a sea of shocked faces….”Has anyone else had just about enough of this motherfucker?”

She’s done it again! What a read, what a truly outstanding read. Pure utter bloody brilliance. Thank you Cordelia Kingsbridge for once again delivering an addictive, enthralling, evocative, suspenseful, extraordinary, passionate and thought-provoking read. Your talent for telling this story is staggering, your ability to constantly keep us guessing is mind-boggling, your expertise in delivering nail biting suspense and making our hearts anxiously race is astounding. We’re sitting here in awe of your incredible talent!

‘Everyone hid parts of themselves, even from the people who loved them the most.’

Every single book in this series has been 5 stars, and if you’ve read The Seven of Spades so far, you’ll know why. If you haven’t, what are you waiting for? Jump into Levi and Dominic’s gripping story now! We’ll endeavour to relay our thoughts by not giving anything away because you really, really have to go into each book spoiler free, it’s imperative you do so. Just prepare yourselves for the ride of your lives!

“You’re a cop, Levi. I was a soldier. It’s not the same.”

In One Eyed Jacks, The Seven of Spades serial killer is in full flight. He’s/she’s/they’re on their way to becoming one of the most prolific serial killers in modern history. They’re more brazen, more outlandish, and more personal with Dominic and Levi. Who is he/she/they? How they know so much about Levi, and what is his/her/they’re obsession with him? Well, four books in and we still have no clue, still no closer to figuring it out, and isn’t that spectacular! That an author can keep us constantly on our toes, talking way into the small hours is something we’re savouring from book to book is everything, and it’s been an unforgettable experience so far!

“I don’t give a shit how anyone else treats me….you’re the only one who makes it hurt so much.”

There’s a lot going on in One Eyed Jacks; we’re introduced to more characters, more plots, and it’s a testament to the greatness of Cordelia Kingsbridge’s writing that she keeps us in the moment, glued to each page in nervous and excited anticipation. Following, understanding, imagining and consuming every word she writes. No word is redundant, every word written to propel the story at breakneck speed, yet we never losing the emotion and passion of the personal relationships, the struggles between Levi and Dominic. The human frailties of both men rip at our hearts, leaving us gutted and fearful of their torment, optimistic and full of hope for their future. Oh, what a roller coaster they’ve taken us on!

‘Dominic was his bashert, his soul mate. Without him, Levi felt like he’d been gut-shot and it was taking months to bleed out.’

Cordelia Kingsbridge weaves stories within stories through The Seven of Spades series, focusing primarily on a particular gruesome, brutal murder/incident through each book, yet taunting from behind the curtain, always ever present is the Seven of Spades killer, a menacing, fascinating and formidable force, who keeps us, and those around him on our toes. We’re completely engrossed in the element of surprise, the twists, turns, and heartaches we encounter at every juncture!

‘Levi had two coping mechanisms for stress: violence and sex.’

At the heart of the story is the relationship between Levi and Dominic, two opposites, two vulnerable men with a deep love, a tonne of baggage, and obstacles constantly thrown their way. Levi, the straight-shooting police officer with an explosive temper, a powder keg of emotions, and the big burly ex-Ranger, Dominic with a heart of gold are a force to be reckoned with. Their passion is searing, their love immense, and their struggles aplenty. These two blokes steamed up the pages and messed with our hearts big time!

‘Dominic had always loved Levi’s hard edges, his acid tongue, his ruthless streak. Underneath all that prickly sarcasm lay an achingly compassionate heart …..Dominic had enjoyed peeling away all those layers, had relished the knowledge that he was one of the few people in the world Levi trust enough to be vulnerable with. ‘

We can’t get enough of these books and have vowed to sit and re-read the series in its entirety once it’s complete. We don’t think we’ll ever tire of this story which Cordelia Kingsbridge has so mind-blowingly and meticulously brought to life, and don’t even get us started on the artistry of those thrilling fight scenes! Wow! This has easily become one of our all-time favourite series, no question. When that last book hits our Kindles it will be like winning the lottery! We can’t wait to uncover the killer’s identity and see where the last book leads us. The wait is going to be excruciating but oh so worth it!

“Because love isn’t rational. It drives us to do inexplicable things.”

Since their reappearance in Las Vegas, the Seven of Spades has been diligently adding to their kill tally, dispensing their own form of justice, and driving homicide detective Levi Abrams to the edge. Add in the suspicions of his co-workers, a lot of unwanted media attention, and a nasty breakup from his boyfriend, Dominic, and Levi’s had as much as he can stand. Still, Levi’s promised to take the Seven of Spades down, and walking away isn’t an option.

Even though it nearly cost him everything before, PI Dominic Russo has his gambling under control this time. By keeping his trips to the casino separate from his job and other obligations, he’s able to handle it—or so he keeps telling himself. Losing Levi over it was heartbreaking, especially when they can’t seem to stay away from each other. But, when the Seven of Spades threatens to ruin Levi one way or another, Dominic will have to face more than his own demons if he wants to save them both.

I’ve always appreciated that the Seven of Spades series didn’t treat the characters as if they were fragile or inept, a facet of the novels that is doubly true in One-Eyed Royals. This story is graphic in its depictions of violence, unflinching in its main characters’ failings, and downright vicious in the repercussions felt by nearly everyone involved. All of which make it one of the better mysteries I’ve read in a very long time.

Another unexpected consequence is that the balance of my affection for the two main characters has been completely reversed at this point in the series. The barriers that kept me from connecting with Levi in the beginning are gone now, making everything he goes through feel more tangible and imperative. Conversely, it’s not that I don’t still care for him a great deal, but Dominic in the midst of a full-blown relapse is a pretty unlikable guy. There were quite a few moments in One-Eyed Royals when I wanted to shake him, as did most of the other characters.

Though the pace of the narrative moves quickly, the author leaves plenty of room in One-Eyed Royals for her audience to really think. As the killer’s interest in Levi becomes more and more personal, quite a few interesting questions are raised—not so much about morality, but about judgement and justice, and the burden of having to choose. As if the escalation of the murders wasn’t already enough, the Seven of Spades further ensnares Levi by reframing the nature of that vengeance, forcing him to not only consider who deserves to die, but who is worthy of saving.

Once again, Cordelia Kingsbridge has delivered a brutal, thought-provoking suspense that I really enjoyed. I found it close to terrifying not so much because of the killer’s actions themselves, but the reinforcement of the powerlessness that threatens to drown the other characters—Levi most of all. There were one or two parts of the story that I had a problem with, even though I couldn’t argue their validity within the context in which they occurred. I got it, I just didn’t like it, but that was okay, too. As the strategy Levi, Dominic, and the other characters I’ve come to care about seems to have changed drastically at the very end of One-Eyed Royals, the final story in the series looks to be extraordinary—and I can’t wait to find out how it all ends.

5+++ Stars!!!

I'm going to be perfectly honest here, after the clusterfuck that book 3 was for me, I wasn't sure I was going to read the last two installments of this series. However, I loved the first two books so much, that I decided to give it one last try and wow, just wow, Cordelia Kingsbridge managed to restore my faith in her writing and her characters in one fell swoop. Please, be aware that you need to read the first three books in the series before One-Eyed Royals, while the third one wasn't my favorite, you do need to read them all because they all follow an ongoing storyline with the Seven of Spades and Dominic and Levi's relationship that spans through all books. Also, if you haven't read the previous stories, please stop reading because this review may contain spoilers.

While I was heartbroken with Dominic's gambling issues, which were still a problem in this book, and it was awful seeing Levi spiraling out of control with everything he was going through, there was some light at the end of the tunnel, which made it easier for me to read despite it all. Also, there was a lot going on with the Seven of Spades and I have my suspicions on who they might be, and I can't wait until the last installment to find out how off base I am or how I finally got it right, LOL.

Overall, I think this was my favorite book in the series, not only did Ms. Kingsbridge manage to make me forget how much I didn't want to continue reading, but she made me fall in love with Levi and Dominic all over again. The writing, the flow, the different storylines all converged masterfully to keep me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end, and even when there were so many things happening with the cases, with Levi and Dom and with the Seven of Spades, it never felt like too much. Now, the only problem will be having to wait until December until the last book is out. *bites nails and wills the days to go by faster*

*** Copy provided to the reviewer by Riptide Publishing via Netgalley for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***

4.5 stars- If you’re into romantic suspense at all, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Miss Kingsbridge’s Seven of Spades series…and for good reason. This series routinely puts me on the edge of my seat and scarcely lets me back off it for the course of the book. These books never fail to surprise me, and I often find myself obsessively reading to discover what Levi and Dominic will face next in their quest to solve a crime while trying to uncover the identity of the Seven of Spades serial killer. Since each book contains its own case, there’s no risk of things getting bored or too repetitive. However, considering the long-term plot of the serial killer case, Dominic and Levi’s relationship, and the multiple secondary characters who play active roles in each book, this is definitely a series that must be read in order.

One-Eyed Royals was especially interesting because it picks up with Levi and Dominic at odds with one another as Dominic struggles to get a handle on his gambling addiction. It’s always risky to cause severe relationship angst with an established couple and this novel is definitely filled with it. However, I thought it only added to the plot, giving the characters and their relationship a bit more depth than it had before without feeling manufactured or overdramatized. In fact, the degree of discomfort I felt reading Dominic and Levi’s struggles in One-Eyed Royals demonstrated just how invested in the characters I’ve become and how well the author was able to bring their emotions and pain to life. Although it’s always hard to watch characters we love make “bad” choices, I appreciated that Kingsbridge didn’t make either Dominic or Levi infallible. Over the course of One-Eyed Royals, we see both men fall and take less than ideal paths, but that also provided the opportunity to see the strength of their characters as well as their love for each other. All the credit to this author, because four books in and the Seven of Spades series isn’t showing signs of repetition or slowing down in the least. If you like drama, suspense, and action, this is one you won’t want to miss.

Boy, do I love this series. It’s extremely well written, has a fabulous storyline brimming with mystery and suspense, with imperfect characters who are an amazing team, even when they aren’t together, which is the case here when this segment begins.

After the craziness of the last book where Dominic relapsed big time with this gambling, thankfully, Levi isn’t just standing by to continue being put through the ringer, at least not until Dom can admit to himself that he actually has a problem. Unfortunately, the two still love each other, aside from the gambling issues, and therefore, they find each other still drawn back for crazy hot sex now and then.

Now, while they are not together as a couple, they are continually thrown together, both with a case, as well as with the SOS. Ms. Kingsbridge manages, once again, to keep you on the edge of your seat, still guessing and cringing and turning pages for more clues and answers. The SOS gets even more personal with Levi this time around, presenting him with a birthday present of epic proportions.

It’s hard to say much more without giving too much away. Suffice to say that Dom and Levi each make some big strides and thankfully figure out they work better together, that they need each other and prioritize things a bit better for their relationship. While I am still pulling my hair out trying to figure things out, the SOS mystery is the only thing left up in the air at the end of this. I’m addicted to this series and though I’ll be sad to say goodbye to these guys, will be really happy to get the final pieces to the puzzle. Highly recommend!

2,5 stars.


It looks like I'm in the very minority with my opinion about the forth sequel, but this book was a struggle for me.

It is obvious now that the concept of the series - to chase after a mysterious serial killer through all sequels - simply doesn't work for me, especially without getting even a bit closer to the Seven of Spades during the investigation in all already released sequels (What investigation?!) In meantime the Seven of Spades have developed themselves from a trivial vindictive murderer to a technically highly equipped organization that is beyond ANY competition. As I already mentioned, neither the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, nor FBI can make any progress in resolving this case. That has nothing more to do with a reality, but reminds rather of a weekly episode from some comic strip. If you like comics, you can enjoy it, but it is just not what I expected after reading the first book in the series. I am not a fan of mystery novels that can be read as a a script for a third-rate cop TV-series.

My second HUGE complaint is the relationship between Levi and Dominic. THAT part becomes slowly but surely more than frustrating.

I don't want even to start to name all my issues here. But if the author plans a mystery romance novel and has nothing else to offer for the majority of the love plot than misunderstandings, conflicts and a highly illogical behavior of the main characters that now and then will be interrupted by excessive and detailed sex scenes that, for their part, give me a feeling the author is going through a grocery list, I'm done. I didn't rate it less because I am still somehow feel invested in the story and in the relationship between Levi and Dominic, and because the start of the series was actually good, but my patience is running out.



After very disappointing two previous sequels, I'm not sure if I want to read the last book at all, even though I am curious who the Seven of Spades is.

If you haven't read "Cash Plays" yet ... Stop, Do Not Pass Go, Do Not Collect $200. Here be spoilers.

This latest addition to the "Seven of Spades" series deftly keeps a lot of balls in the air. There's relationship angst and agonizing heartache as Levi and Dominic are three months post break-up, plus a series of gruesome murders the Seven of Spades is not involved in, AND a series of equally gruesome murders committed by the Seven of Spades. "One-Eyed Royals" has it all in .... well, SPADES.

This whole series is so deliciously complex I don't want to give a lot of details because unraveling all the action, the heartbreak, the gore, and the developments in the case as well as Dominic and Levi's complicated relationship is what makes this series so engrossing. The plot is superb and the pace of the book is breathtaking (even at 366 pages, it feels just too short!) Dominic and Levi's relationship is on hold, but they still desperately love one another and ultimately they have each other's back. Even after four books, there is so much more to learn about them as individuals and as a couple.

We are (finally) given an important clue about how the Seven of Spades may be connected to Levi's past ... but we are still no closer to figuring out his identity. All the twists and turns keep the central mystery intriguing and I anxiously await the next book in the series "A Chip and a Chair." 5 stars!

I was scared to read this book. Par for course with this series if I’m being honest. Cordelia Kingsbridge is a genius, there’s no doubt about that. Her words are twisted in such a way that they stick with you (read: haunt you).

When we last see Levi and Dominic they’re fracturing, personally, professionally, and romantically. Where I hated and raged at them in the last book I was sad for them in this one. They’re both hurting. Dominic is lost in the cycle of addiction, Levi is lost in his anger. They’re both lost without the other.

Everything is amplified in this book. It’s hard to write a five book series with one main bad guy, yet Cordelia Kingsbridge makes everything seem so easy. The Seven of Spades heats things up and his taunts towards Levi threatens to push him to the brink. While I was both pissed and understanding to Levi before I started this I just wanted to take his pain away here.
Dominic is suffer and in denial. I was sad for him because he was fast approaching rock bottom and I was scared he’d destroy his relationship with Levi, what little relationship they had left. Neither man was able to let go, even though they weren’t together. It hurt them and it hurt me.
So much happens in this book it is impossible to look away. I thought that if I put my Kindle down for even a second I might miss something so I read straight through.

This is probably the best ending of all the books so far. After everything that’s happened to them, all the torment the Seven of Spades put them through, the pain they put themselves through, they’re ready to turn the tides, I’m terrified what the next move is, because Levi and Dominic are barely finding their footing again.

I’m already stressing out about the last book in the series, whatever happens next it’s going to either break or make the main characters.

Cordelia Kingsbridge might kill me by the end of this series, but reading it will be worth it.

I'm blown away by the sheer awesomeness I've just read. Wow, just wow. One-Eyed Royals is yet another FANTASTIC installment to an insanely incredible series.

Seriously, the Seven of Spades has got to be one of the most exciting stories out there and I'm incredibly thankful for discovering this series & receiving an advanced readers copy. *sniffls*

One-Eyed Royals doesn't disappoint! The fourth book brings us more murder and mayhem, excitement and a whole lot more Seven of Spade madness!

Levi and Dominic continue their rollercoaster ride, as excepted, with yet more ups and downs but the highs were as exhilarating as the lows (in my humble opinion). I've thoroughly enjoyed their romance from the beginning and I'm stupidly happy with the strength of their love! *sigh*

Just when I thought I couldn't adore Levi more I keep falling harder in love with the guy. I love reading his POV and while I also adore Dominic... shrug, I just can't get enough of Levi!

He fascinates me, and he feels so relatable. He's one of those guys (for me) who I'd follow to the end of the earth. I'd be able forgive him anything; nothing he could do would change my opinion of him :P

Dominic on the other hand frustrated me a lot. I found his actions in the previous books extremely cruel and I hated that he couldn't get himself to change for what felt like an eternity!

I was very unhappy with him for a very very very long time.


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I'm amazed by the author's talent for creating one enthralling book after the other.

Please never stop writing!

Highly Recommended!!!