Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Eagle Elite #12

Dissolution

Rate this book
A mafia romance about family, loyalty, and love, Dissolution is the powerful conclusion to #1 New York Times bestselling author Rachel Van Dyken's Eagle Elite series.

"There is always a beginning—I will be their end."

For ten years the Cosa Nostra has ruled with an iron fist in Chicago—their reign is about to end, and I'll be the one to bring them down.

One more job for the Italian Americans, and I'm done.
Except this "one job" involves saving the boss's brother and sister.
When things go horribly wrong, and a price is put on all of our heads from my Family back home—I'm forced to stay in Chicago, offer not just my gun but my protective services to the young girl I saved while also making sure nobody touches her.
Myself included.

My own Family has splintered.
Half want me dead, half want me alive, and the only people willing to protect me are the very ones I hate—her included.

I'm the Grim Reaper of the Sicilian mafia, and I bow to no one, not even her, so when she asks me to teach her to fight, when she tells me she wants to be made, I give in just so I can piss off the bosses.
Only I made one mistake.

I protect her from the world.
But who protects me from her?

One more battle remains between the families in Italy and in the States.
One more battle where I'm torn between both sides.
And I'm left protecting the one girl who has the potential to wreck us all.

It all started a decade ago at Eagle Elite University—the beginning.
It will end on the streets of Chicago—with me as the end.

I, Santino Sinacore, am their end.


**This may be the end of the OG Eagle Elite, but it is NOT the end of the Eagle Elite World!**

238 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 20, 2023

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

Rachel Van Dyken

168 books18.2k followers
Rachel Van Dyken is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of regency and contemporary romances.

Hey guys I'm rarely on Goodreads, if you need to reach me feel free to email!
EMAIL ME: rachelvandykenauthor@gmail.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-...

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
397 (63%)
4 stars
159 (25%)
3 stars
49 (7%)
2 stars
13 (2%)
1 star
3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
Profile Image for Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan).
786 reviews24 followers
February 16, 2023
Dissolution is the 12th book in the Eagle Elite Series by Rachel Van Dyken. Santino wants out of the mafia life, despite the motto— Blood in. No out. His final job involves reaching the big boss’ brother and sister, but nothing ever goes according to plan. This is a story about the true definition of family, of grit and determination, and sacrifice. It’s a battle between families for power, but also a much more important personal evolution for Santino and Katya. After the horrors of they’ve already experienced, will they survive the dangers about to befall them now that they have met?

This is the first book I have read by this author, and I was riveted from the very beginning!! I’m glad I looked at both the Content Guidance link and the Eagle Elite Family description at the beginning. I had my tissues on hand and some character background to rely on. But honestly, the world building was so well done that I never felt at a disadvantage for being a newbie to the series, although the characters all made me want to go back and read their stories. The witty banter and the comradery was great. I was truly thankful for those lighter moments, because the darker, emotion-driven ones really packed a punch! I needed my stash of tissues, because I was feeling all the things with this book! The mental imagery was tough, but that’s a hallmark of excellent writing. Watching Santino and Katya grow together was awesome, it was like he was finally giving himself permission to feel something. And while Katya was used to having someone to lean on, she was finding strength within herself. I loved them together, and the fiery chemistry that sparked between them! Overall, the book just flowed so well, whether it was emotional and dark, witty and funny, or a plot twist I didn’t see coming, I didn’t put the book down until I finished it! Although I might need a low angst pallet cleanser after this one, I will definitely be reading more from this author!!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for queen_of_the_books_18.
856 reviews227 followers
March 8, 2023
What crack does Rachel Van Dyken put in her mafia books? Because DAMN I need her to continue supplying me with these Eagle Elite characters for the rest of my life!!

This series is my favourite comfort re-read.
Profile Image for Sentranced Jem.
1,134 reviews602 followers
February 20, 2023
You guys have NO IDEA how excited I was to read this book!
the Eagle Elite series is my OG mafia romance series. This series started my obsession with mafia romance and I was beyond thrilled to read Dissolution.

Dissolution is all about "lifelong loyalty...friendship, connections, family ties, trust, obedience-that was the glue that held us together."

My heart is full reading more about the five families that make up the Cost Nostra in America.
Profile Image for Catreena.
360 reviews63 followers
February 16, 2023
DISSOLUTION
Eagle Elite series #12
Rachel Van Dyken
Releases 20th Feb

#mafia #romance #mafiaromance #contemporaryromance #darkromance #romanticsuspence #antihero #bodyguard #CurrentlyReading #allthefeels #ContemporaryRomance #DarkRomance #allthefeels #HeroineinDanger #TragicPast #Dissolution #RachelVanDyken


POV:Dual                                   Into the light
Santino & Katya

Super excited for being back in the OG Eagle Elite world again.
These lunatics love & protect hard. And loyalty & Family means everything.

Santino Sinacore, Sicilian Family Grim Reaper, assassin, would have been heir to the Sinacore Family. But it's now Andrei Petrov-Sinacore, Russian/Italian. It's Santino's birth rite, all he's trained for, only for it to be taken from him. Enduring a horrid upbringing. Hating this development, he wants out. But for him to do this, he has to do one more job, to save his Boss' twin siblings.

Katya and her twin brother, Pace, grew up believing that they were orphaned at a young age, unwanted, after being found abandoned and taken into foster care, it wasn't pretty, at least they had each other. Not knowing why they were taken and in a cell for weeks. Traumatised, abused, clinging on to Santino when he rescues her, she's lost her soul, her twin, her anchor.
Connecting with her long lost older brother, Andrei, that she thought abandoned her & Pace, learning that she's Mafia Royalty. It's alot to process.

Santino is now Katya's bodyguard. She wants him to train her to defend herself and get revenge. Why does Katya make Santio feel things that his Father drilled into him makes you weak?
Katya should be scared of what Santio is capable of, so why isn't she?

War is coming! There's prices on all the bosses heads.
Santino has to prove his worth and that he's fully in with the Chicago Cosa Nostra.

This was an amazing, gripping, emotional rollercoaster.
Tissues and wine are required.

I just love all the Bosses banter. The insane come backs, outsiders wouldn't have a clue if they're being serious or not. Brilliant!!

Blood In. No Out!

*Arc provided for an honest review
Profile Image for Abstract ♥ Books.
1,221 reviews1,663 followers
February 26, 2023



ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS

line

Star Rating : 4.5 / 5 Stars

POV : Dual

Cliffhanger : None

Pace of the story : Moderate

Angst Rating : 6/10

Heat Rating : 6/10

Overall Opinion :
I remember sobbing when I read that RVD was not going to release any more books after the second generation series of eagle elite. I don't know if it was wrong or not but it was definitely something like she was taking a break from this world and damn was I sad. I have followed this world right from the time when it was only a couple of books out and till and let me tell you that each and every MF book is better than the last!! YOU NEED TO READ THESE BOOKS IF YOU HAVE NOT YET!!

I was so happy and a bit (ok, very) shocked when I saw that this book was going to be released. I was literally over the moon and signed up so fast 🤣 there is nothing I love more than my favorite bunch of mafia men and their banter 🥹

This book is everything I wanted from this series. As the author said , this might be the last book of OG eagle elite but I hope we get more mafia from her!! She is amazing at writing mafia ❤️ this one is a standalone and as always Rachel slayed in every genre here. It had amazing characters, all the humor and the killer angst as well. I don't know how she managed to provide this perfect mixture of angst and Humour but she has me totally hooked lmao.

Definitely recommending this one to all the dark romance loving people out there. And if you seriously haven't read any book of the Eagle elite series , then please do so , you are missing out a LOT!!

My-Post-3 Website | Bookstagram | Facebook Page | Newsletter
Profile Image for BookAddict.
1,762 reviews148 followers
February 15, 2023
Ho. Ly. Wow!! I really don’t care for mafia romance, but I love RVD's mafia series. The thing I love about these stories is not only the focus on family and loyalty, but also the soul-deep love in the midst of all the chaos, madness, and bloodshed.

Santino Sinacore is the assassin of the Italian mafia, but he’s had enough. Before he can get out though, he has one last job to do for the Chicago mob, the five families of the Cosa Nostra. Andrei Petrov's sister has been kidnapped and Santino is tasked with rescuing her. When Santino finally reaches Katya, he finds not much more than a scarred, battered shell remaining.

After Katya has some time to heal, she wants nothing but vengeance. She wants to be a made member of the Family and asks Santino to train her, the warrior within rising to mete out a ruthless vendetta. But before she has a chance to act, the Italian part of the family that wants to take down the Cosa Nostra makes its move.

This one grabbed my attention right from the start and I was at 70% before I even realized any time had passed. I hung on every word, eagerly reading to find out what would come next. The riveting suspense and agonizing drama were only exceeded by the devastatingly beautiful love between Santino and Katya. Each the other's equal, fighting side by side, which only served to make their bond unbreakable.

If nothing else, this masterful romance shows us that love can happen at any time, even in the midst of the most dire, hopeless circumstances. Utterly captivating, with just the right balance of humor, heat, and heart, this phenomenal read is one of my favorites this year, and one you absolutely won’t want to pass up!
Profile Image for Stephanie.
798 reviews47 followers
February 14, 2023
I’m balling!

Katya and her twin brother, Pace, have been kidnapped and suffered abuse, but together they have remained warriors, looking out for the other and being each other’s anchors. Katya does suffer from this ordeal but, with some guidance, is able to take things into her own hands and become a stronger person by the end of the story.

Santino has wanted out of this lifestyle, having not felt that he belonged. He is the assassin of the Family, so doesn’t feel that he deserves the attention of Katya, whom he has been charged with the protect. Yet, he isn’t one to follow rules, and his daring helps Katya overcome her fears.

Indeed, the two of them are perfect for each other! They are like yin and yang, and through words and actions, show us how strong their bond is even if they have not known each other for long. And despite this, nothing felt rushed or too sudden, as if they were meant to find each other all along. Even in dire times they show how much they care and trust each other.

I also want to applaud the author for how well the writing flowed as well as the banter between the characters. Even when the situations were serious, the conversations found a way to be humorous. There were also moments full of heart, and I felt myself smiling at several points.

I hadn’t read the other books by this author before, and I don’t think it’s required to understand this one, but I will definitely go back and read those as characters who appear in this story have me curious about their stories now.

Overall, Katya and Santino’s story kept me glued to the pages, and it’s definitely a story I’ll return to and think about.
Profile Image for Megan.
1,006 reviews2 followers
February 16, 2023
If you are looking for your next true one sit read look no further! Dissolution will suck you in and make time fly by! I enjoyed every moment of this book! If you like dangerous/ darker romances make sure to read this one! This book will take you on quite a ride! I will say I even caught some feels while reading this one. This is the 12th book in the series, but it can be read as a true standalone. I have not read the others in this series and I did not feel lost at all. I also don’t feel like the other books in this series have been spoiled by anything that happens in this one. I will definitely be going back at some point and reading the rest of this series! I definitely recommend this book.

Received a arc for a honest review.
Profile Image for Meegz Reads.
1,454 reviews123 followers
February 20, 2023
*4 Stars*

ARC kindly received for an honest review.

This was a quick read as I find with many RVD books because I just devour them. Katya and Santino's story surprised me in a few places, but it was easy to get to know these characters and go through the story with them.

Our EE faves are of course there, and there are actually quite a lot of moments with them, which makes it even better. There are so many characters in this world though, that sometimes I find myself getting confused with who is related to who and who did what in the past. Terrible book memory there lol.

Some heart wrenching moments at the end of this one, and a full circle moment as well. Another great instalment.

Follow me on:
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
The Storygraph
Profile Image for Susan.
453 reviews4 followers
February 20, 2023
Honestly you don’t realize how much you miss the Eagle Elite until you’re immersed into another story!!! Santino wants out even though he knows that’s not a reality he can really have. He feels that Andrei holds the position he should’ve held, and he wants nothing more to do with any of mafia families. He’s from the original Italian mafia families, and the ones in the home country are not 100% on board with the Americans holding all the power. But getting out really isn’t up to him. He now has a new job he can’t refuse!
Katya has no idea her family’s history but she’s thrust into a situation she’s not sure how she’s going to get out of. Santino bursts into her life like a wrecking ball, and everything she knows is turned upside down. While she adjusts to her new reality, she gets to learn how crazy the ruling members of the American Mafia really are!! We also get to see the next generation as toddlers which is everything!
Profile Image for June.
85 reviews4 followers
February 14, 2023
They say you can tell alot about a author by the way they write. Is it rushed? Is it a repeat of words to make a word count? Or maybe each character has the same characteristics as every other character in the book. This is not case with RvD and Dissolution. Each character was beautifully flawed but yet strong and intense. I felt each word that was sprawled across the pages bringing out strong emotions. There is no doubt that Rachel Van Dyken didn't feel it. After all, her heart bled out all over the pages leaving us with a story that will never be forgotten. Blood in, no out.
Profile Image for KeelyReadsRomance.
433 reviews54 followers
February 21, 2023
This was such a fun and wild ride! RVD mafia is different and so uniquely her. It’s full of emotion, darkness, and death, but also full of lightness, humor and love. The Cosa Nostra is such a fun place to visit and the characters are like family to me. I’m so excited for what’s to come with Eagle Elite!
Profile Image for thehotmesslibrary.
791 reviews17 followers
February 18, 2023
Oh, the drama! That is pretty much what this book is all about as were submerged in the life of Santino and Katya. We meet Katya in terrible circumstances as she struggles to survive. Enter Santino, a man with a plan that will eventually get him killed if he doesn’t decide whose side he’s on, the Cosa Nostra’s or someone else’s. Loyalties will be tested and only the strongest are going to survive!

I loved, loved, loved Santino as a character, he’s strong, domineering and an assassin, but he definitely has a heart when it comes to Kayla and making her a stronger version of herself, even if it means putting his own head on the chopping block. He certainly is the Grim Reaper wrapped up in some incredible hotness! Kayla is also a great character and her bond with her twin is strong if not heart-breaking. She has been through the wringer but like a phoenix has risen from the ashes to find out who she is and where she belongs in her family. She gives as good as she gets with Santino, but has a streak of vulnerability and strength which just makes her an amazing character.

If you have read any of the Eagle Elite series, it’s hard to choose which characters you like best (definitely Chase for me!) and you don’t have to in this book as they all pop up again, taking on the enemy and making sacrifices for the ones they love!

As always, loyalties are going to be tested, there’s going to be blood, drama and some steaminess thrown into the mix. Hold onto your seats and enjoy the ride!

ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review. All opinions are my own. 😊

More of my reviews can be found on my blog: http://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Kara Hildebrand (Two Book Pushers).
1,710 reviews145 followers
February 17, 2023
6 hearts

Dissolution is the twelfth and last book in the Eagle Elite series. Say it isn't so!!! I’m not sure what I'm going to do with myself now that it's over. I'm hopeful we'll see the beloved characters again and now I can add Santino to the list. He's the Grim Reaper of the Sicilian Mafia (my people!) and I just fell hard and fast for another killer. He's in Chicago, but he wants out. He just has to do one last favor for the five families. Rescue twins and then he's out. In true mafia fashion, nothing goes the way it should. He saved her and now he needs to protect her. Katya. The gorgeous blonde who's strong as hell and has no idea who she is. A threat's been made on all five families and now Santino has to do something he's never done before. Protect someone he cares about. Katya doesn't know anything about her family. She and her brother have been on their own for a long time and now she's being rescued and taken somewhere to meet the mafia. Oh joy. She's not afraid. She's not going to cower. But she's also not going to be a victim again. She just has to convince Santino to train her. Santino didn't live a normal life. You never show fear. You don't have feelings. And now this woman has turned his world upside down and he's dodging bullets from his allies. He doesn’t know who to trust, but the more time he spends with Nixon, Chase, Phoenix, Andrei, Dante and Sergio, the more he understands. They are The Cosa Nostra but they aren't the bad guys. He doesn't want out, he just wants to keep Katya safe. Even if it's from himself. Holy shit! This freaking book gutted me. I pretty much cried for the second half of the story. Santino, I love you. Sergio, I love you. I love them all. What a way to end the series. It makes me sad just to type that. These men and their women have been like family to me for ten years. TEN years. I feel like I've shared meals, wine, secrets, sacrifices, life and death with them. My heart has been broken and sewed back together so many times. Santino somehow filled in all the cracks and made it whole again. I couldn’t love this book more. I laughed, cried big fat tears, smiled, laughed and cried more. It was just perfection. Thank you, Rachel for giving us these families and their loved ones!
Profile Image for Marisela M. Chavez.
1,203 reviews3 followers
February 17, 2023
First and foremost I would like to say thank you Rachel for creating a world I love visiting.

Katya and Santino story was the perfect ending to this amazing series. They both wanted freedom. And I the end, they found so much more with this crazy life. The mafia life. Blood in. No out.

Katya innocence and her strength was so good to see from her. Santino ruthlessness and determination. I just loved everything about this.

I love coming back to this world and reconnecting with old friends that I’ve adored from the beginning. This story had so much pain, loss, laughs and in the end love.

And in the end it all came full circle and I loved every minute of it. 🖤❤️


Arc provided for honest review.
197 reviews1 follower
February 14, 2023
Dissolution is the last book in the Eagle Elite series and is about Andrei”s sister, Katya. If you’ve read Andrei’s book, you know Katya likely hasn’t had a good life. She’s been born into a world unknown to her and thrown away by her father. Andrei wants to change things but the distant families have an issue with the American 5 families of the Bratva and want to crush all that they’ve built.
I loved this book! If you haven’t read the rest of the EE series, you should! This family is brutal and wonderful and oh so funny and it’s been a wonderful series! I loved Santino and Katya and the absolute best part is the end. I just love this series! This is a must read!
I am leaving this review voluntarily after being sent a free book.
450 reviews15 followers
February 15, 2023
"While the hero works on trying to rescue you, the villain resurrects you.”

WOW! I can't believe it's the end of OG mafia and to say that Rachel end it with a bang would be an understatement. I finished this in one setting. Absolutely loved this. And seeing my fav EE members was just a cherry over the top. Like always RVD gave us action, drama, emotions with a touch of humour that makes her mafia world the best!
Sad to see this is the end but definitely looking forward to reading more in the second generation!!!
February 16, 2023
Dissolution is the final book of the Eagle Elite OGs, and I’m honestly at a loss. On one hand, I can’t imagine a more bittersweetly perfect ending, but on the other, I will never be ready to say goodbye to a series that has given me more than I could ever say.

Dissolution is the final book of the Eagle Elite OGs, and I’m honestly at a loss. On one hand, I can’t imagine a more bittersweetly perfect ending, but on the other, I will never be ready to say goodbye to a series that has given me more than I could ever say.


Katya had a million reasons to give up. to become someone she didn’t recognize, angry and hateful, and it would have been completely understandable. Instead, she maintained a semblance of innocence in a world of darkness and pain; more than anything, though, she maintained a fight that seemed to grow more powerful with each page. Her heart was full of sweet innocence, her mind was a pillar of strength, and her blood was that of a BA warrior. She wasn’t in need of a hero, but then again, whether someone is a hero or villain all comes down to the one who is telling the story.

Although I would never tell him, Santino was the perfect addition to the Eagle Elite men. Dark and dangerous with a side of mafia swoon. You know what I mean—the type of swooning that comes from having a thing for anti-heroes, so you swoon over things like gunshots and threats. There isn’t anything in the world like a man who would forsake all others to save the woman who brought him to his knees. She was the shot he never saw coming, but oh, what a way to go.

Katya and Santino had a connection the moment they met, and even under the circumstances, it shot off the page with a spark. It was nothing compared to what was to come, though. The electric current thrumming between them continued to build on every page. They were made for each other. That initial spark was their souls recognizing one another.

Blood in. No out. The phrase may have been intended for the characters who inhabit this fictional world, but it appears that the sentiment has become embedded in the hearts of readers like me. When the characters hurt, I hurt, and when they bleed, I bleed. The world may be fictional, but from the moment you step inside, you are as much a part of it as the characters on the pages. The magic inside this series is unlike anything else.

If I could go back and read this series all over again for the first time, I would do it in a heartbeat. RVD’s talent shines in every word she writes, but the raw talent she weaves throughout this series is like nothing else out there.

Dissolution immediately pulls you straight back into the Eagle Elite world, and I devoured every word as though I needed it to survive. Every emotion the characters feel will become embedded in your heart and seared on your soul, and a touch of nostalgia that truly makes it a painfully bittersweet goodbye.




When you enter the Elite world, it will elicit parts of you that you were unaware existed. The Elect are there to Entice you into ignoring real life while they Elicit emotions from the depths of your soul. The never-ending "Bang Bang" as they continuously fight for those they love. Each word will Enchant you, and each story will Enforce you into becoming a part of a world you never knew existed. Each character’s story will become an Ember burning inside of you. The idea of this world and these characters being fictional will Elude you; your mind will be far too caught up in the Enrapture of it all. You are a part of the Empire they’ve built, and any threats will Enrage you, leaving you ready to write a Eulogy because while the love they share may leave them Exposed to threats, it’s that same love and loyalty that is the Envy of their enemies.




On a different note

I found this series when the whole world was turned upside down. 2020 was chaotic for many reasons, and the Eagle Elite allowed me a safe place to lose myself. More than the escape, it brought someone into my life who had been on the outskirts of my entire indie bookish life. A group and this series changed that. We read countless stories about fighters, about women who are the heroes of their own stories. Fictional characters battle a fictional enemy, but they have nothing on this person, who is a very real warrior.

"Warriors live, and they fight."

This warrior doesn’t just fight for herself but for those around her as well. She fights for them when they can’t, while encouraging them with kindness and support, the likes of which I had never seen before her. Every day that I’ve spent knowing her has been a two-twirl day. She’s the very essence of a warrior with the heart of a saint. She is everything good and stronger than any mafia boss.

"At the end of the day, you have everything you need to be your own warrior, your own hero."

At the end of the day, I have everything I need to be my own warrior, my own hero, and I also have the example to show others that they can be their own too because I learned from the best.


Website | Amazon | Facebook | Instagram




Profile Image for Kelly  DeMarco.
1,797 reviews4 followers
February 16, 2023
I'm not crying, you're crying! This book is brilliant
Grab your tissues and a pillow to hug because Dissolution (Eagle Elite Book 12) by Rachel Van Dyken is as fraught with pain, danger and constant threat as it is an absolute tear jerker. Yes, I cried at a certain point in this book, and my heart broke a few more times throughout, but it's so fantastically well written that I'll take the sad to get to the happy end. It’s a fitting sort of end for this part of the Eagle Elite Saga. And I say ‘sort of end’ because their Mafia life and roles don’t just end.
Santino and Katya meet in spectacularly dangerous, tragic and traumatic fashion. When Katya should be afraid of the monster that Santino is, she only feels safety. It's a conundrum for Katya for sure, but the mind and the heart wants what it wants. Santino thinks himself emotionless, but Katya brings out the fire, sheds light on his dark, while fighting within himself. He knows the rules, yet he breaks them even as he denies, denies, denies.
My heart broke for both Santino and Katya. There's so much heartache, pain, loss, suffering, abuse, threats, constant danger. All the darkness ends up bringing them together, rather than apart. Then there’s the multitude of characters in this book. Engagement each other (mostly the Bosses) is predominantly purposeful, intentional teasing which brings eruptions of rage that bring levity rather than seriousness to grave moments. The Bosses, whom I remember from previous books, are as serious and as they are funny. Their outrage is often teasingly antagonistic and totally intentional, getting rises out of each other. However, when those they love are targeted or hurt, the rage is real and fierce. Santino insists he is nothing like these 'brothers', but in reality, they are all one in the same. Tensions have to be released somehow because blood in, no out is the only option. It's a lifetime commitment and way of life. Gotta love the way they deal with the stress and blow off steam.
Overall, this author knows how to get her readers gasping and gripping the edge of their seats, falling for and adoring the Hero and Heroine, breaking our hearts then healing them, create palpable despair with a silver lining of hope. Santino and Katya, in and out of danger and surviving trauma and tragedy, still find themselves falling for each other despite all obstacles and expectations. Love flourishes for these two warriors and trumps all. The only thing dissolute is darkness and a HEA and peace is in effect for all.
I read an ARC of this book via Valentine Promotions and voluntarily share my review.
Profile Image for Hanan .
1,691 reviews16 followers
February 16, 2023
"Sometimes it's not the hero that makes the nightmares go away. It's the villain because only the villain knows what it's like to live in constant darkness and torment. Only the villain knows how to make the burn go away. While the hero works on trying to rescue you, the villain resurrects vou.”

I really admired Katya. She bloomed and blossomed right before my eyes.
Katya became so much more than the frightened girl locked in a tower.
Going through what she did, seeing what she saw.
No one would blame her if she never set foot outside her house again.
But she grew, found her strength, dusted herself off and stood tall.
She found her wings and soared high. A Phoenix who rose from the ashes.
I could never have imagined what she’d become.
But she wouldn’t be who she is or who she’d become without the assassin’s guidance.
Santino is the dark dangerous man that you just can’t help but fall in love with.
His anger consumes him. His pain energies him. And his hatred keeps him going.
He’s no one hero. But he’s a villain to many.
But he’s so much more than the world sees.
He knows he’s missing something vital. He just doesn’t know what it is.
Because he never allowed himself anything good to enter his life because villains aren’t allowed happiness.
I was gripped with this story.
I laughed, I cried. I was mad and happy.
My heart broke, my soul sad.
But slowly healing took place and there was some light at the end of the dark destructive tunnel.
Ms. Van Dyken not only delivers a love set against all odds and one that was never meant to be.
But also story of family, unbreakable bonds, of finding redemption and peace.
The book brought out all the feelings. It was nerve wracking and intense during many parts.
It’s filled with lust and passion, violence and danger and not knowing who to trust at any given time.
A perfect blend of all things mafia and love.

“Pieces of your life that finally fit into place, beauty out of agony and darkness, and an ending that may not be what you expected but perfect for you and your story, nonetheless.”
**4.5 stars**
Profile Image for Ann (Literary Lust).
1,356 reviews20 followers
February 16, 2023
To say I am devastated that this is the end of the OG Eagle Elite is an understatement. This has, and always will be, one of my favourite book series – one of the best I have ever read – and Dissolution closes the series perfectly in my opinion. I could never tire of being in the company of those within the Cosa Nostra and thankfully there is always the opportunity for rereads and future EE world publications in order to get my fix.

Rachel Van Dyken has penned Dissolution perfectly. Told via multi POVs, this may essentially be classed as Katya and Santino’s story – and what a story it is! However, in reality, it is so much more. It has everything I would expect in an Eagle Elite novel and I loved every moment.

I found this narrative to be unputdownable. I seemed to fly through the book and for obvious reasons I was gutted when I reached the end. This story brought out all the emotions in me. I do love how during the tensest of situations Ms. Van Dyken can add humour through her character’s words and actions. Those heart in your mouth/sitting on the edge of your seat moments are incredible. The romance and friendships between the characters are palpable. There are twists and turns throughout, and if you are already a fan of the Eagle Elite you will know to expect the unexpected. This series has truly been epic from start to finish.

This series is one that I highly recommend to you to read. The closing scenes of Dissolution both broke and warmed my heart. If you enjoy your romance on the darker side then Eagle Elite is perfect for you.

Thank you, Rachel Van Dyken, for many years of enjoyment reading not only the OG Eagle Elite but the Mafia Royals and Elite Bratva Brotherhood series too. I know this isn’t the end of the EE world and for this I am truly thankful. It can’t ever end surely, because Blood in. No out.
Profile Image for Imi J..
164 reviews2 followers
February 15, 2023
I've just finished Dissolution, the newest release of RVD. It's the last book in the Eagle Elite series, but I hope we will get more books in that amazing series.

Dissolution is a story of Santino Sinacore - Grim Reaper of Sinacore Family and Katja Pertrov - missing sister of head of Petrov-Sinacore mafia family - Andrei Petrov.
Santino has only one goal - he wants to escape the mafia so when Andrei offers him a possibility to gain desired freedom, he doesn't hesitate. Just one task and he will be free. But saving Petrov twins - Katja and Pace - is just a beginning when things in the USA go incredibly wrong Santino's freedom is off the table. Instead of it he becomes a little sister babysitter under only one Andrei's condition - don't you dare to touch her. It shouldn't be so hard.

I really like Santino and Katja's story. It was like a rollercoaster - I felt a wide range of emotions - I was happy, I was sad, I was scared and I laughed a lot. It was a really emotional journey. I felt Katja's pain and I cherished her attempts to take control over her life again. She has a strong personality. Sometimes she reminds me of Andi.
Reading Dissolution was like meeting old friends - we had an opportunity to see Nixon, Chase, Phoenix, Tex and other guys again. I was so excited about them. They are like wine - the older the better.
There is no need to mention that I adore Rachel's writing. I devoured Dissolution within a few hours - I couldn't put it down.

#literacy #bookishlove #books #bookshelf #bookstagrampolska #bookstagrammer #booksofinstagram #booknerd #bookstagram #bookaddict #bookstagrampolska #book #bookstagrampl #readingisfundamental #reading #readingissexy #reads #polishgirlreads #polskibookstagram #review #instabook #instareading #instareader #instareview #bookstagrammers #polishgirlreads
Profile Image for Courtney.
1,731 reviews200 followers
February 23, 2023
4.5 Stars

Dissolution is RVD's twelfth and final (cue all the tears!!) book in her Eagle Elite series and can easily be read as standalone within this series.

I have to say that RVD writes mafia romance in a way no one else does and that's one of the biggest reasons I love her mafia series. It's so unique and there is nothing else like it out there.

If you have never read any of the other books, no worries. You can read this one ease, but be warned, after finishing, you will understand why so many of us love EE.

If you're a long-time reader, you know what you are in for.

I won't go into details on this book – the blurb is all you need. However, I will leave you with a few quotes I loved.

"First lesson complete," I sighed. "Sacrifice everyone for yourself."

"Ever think that maybe the heroes are the monsters, the monsters are the actual heroes? This isn't the world you think it is, Katya. We do bad to save those who don't deserve the life they've been given."

"Give Me more of this dream. Give me more of this alternate reality where I get the girl. And I don't die. What a fantasy. What a life. What a tragedy."

"Nobody can make you do anything you don't want to do, and sometimes we find freedom where we least expect it."

"Sometimes," he said, "it's not the hero that makes the nightmares go away. It's the villain because only the villain knows what it's like to live in constant darkness and torment. Only the villain knows how to make the burn go away. While the hero works on tying to rescue you, the villain resurrects you."



Profile Image for HeatherP.
1,052 reviews25 followers
February 17, 2023
I have no words that I can use to express my love for this series. It's taken me through every possible emotion, and I welcomed all of them with open arms. Some I wasn't ready for, and some I knew I needed - even if it hurt. They will forever be in my heart. #EE4Ever

I'm not going to go on and on about this book. It doesn't need my words of praise. All you need to know is that.....It's Eagle Elite. It's Rachel Van Dyken. Buy the books. Fall in love. Remember Chase is mine.

And as always....

Sangue dentro non fuori

Quotes:

"Blood makes you a target, but it also offers you protection. You're as good as covered in mine from this day on. That is my vow. Take it or leave it. I don't give a ****. But at least you know there will be one body between you and certain death, and at all times, and that body will be mine."

"Sometimes," he said, "it's not the hero that makes the nightmares go away. It's the villain because only the villain knows what it's like to live in constant darkness and torment. Only the villain knows how to make the burn go away. While the hero works on tying to rescue you, the villain resurrects you."

"Ever think that maybe the heroes are the monsters, the monsters the actual heroes? This isn't the world you think it is, Katya. We do bad to save those who don't deserve the life they've been given."

"Give me more of this dream.
Give me more of this alternate reality where I get the girl. And I don't die.
What a fantasy.
What a life.
What a tragedy."
Profile Image for Vanessa.
533 reviews55 followers
February 21, 2023
I received this arc for my honest review. Santino wants out of the mafia life but when it’s Blood In, No Out is it worth it. He’s given a job that he hopes is his last. Katya and her twin brother were kidnapped, tortured and abused. By the time they are saved Katya’s twin brother Pace doesn’t make it. She suffered along with her brother and once she is saved there’s a lot that she went through that she needs to overcome, along with the death of her twin. Santino is there for her and helps her find her inner warrior Pace would tell her they were. Santino was only supposed to keep her safe but can you really fight falling. Their chemistry and connection was everything and more. Santino and Katya are exactly what the other needed and I feel like they came to each other’s lives when they both needed the other. I love that we still get to see the other five families in this book. The back and forth between them will have you laughing. RVD does not disappoint and in this last installment of her Eagle Elite series just shows why this is my top mafia read. I can’t express how much I loved Santino and Katya’s story. Definitely one that you will not want to miss and even when you get to the end, you might want to dive back in only because you weren’t ready for it to be over.
Profile Image for Amour.Rebelle92 (Bran.d).
1,075 reviews11 followers
February 20, 2023
Dissolution was the perfect end to my favorite OG families. Rachel knocked it out of the park. I laughed, cried & wanted to fight along side Katya💪🏻

Katya was definitely baptized by fire! I can’t imagine losing half of yourself only to find your future🖤

I love the way Rachel weaved the past in to the story…dropping little nuggets of some of the most memorable moments of EE with a sneak peak at the EE kiddos.

💕fave quotes📖

“I will end it. I will end. I will end. I will end. I will….” —Rachel Van Dyken——I didn’t read Dissolution in the newsletter so RVD made me a bit nervous!


While the hero works on trying to rescue you, the villain resurrects you.”🖤🖤🖤


“Did you pull your gun?” “We both did.” Andrei looked down. “And if that bastard says he hit it first, he’s a liar!” “You shot a bird. At Home Depot,” Nixon deadpanned. “You’re the weirdest straight married couple ever.”—-omg! I can picture this & i am crying laughing


“And the answer to your question is no, I don’t think this is the end. I think this is the closing of one chapter and getting ready for another. Every story has to end, Andrei, but that doesn’t mean we can’t write another right after.”—-of course my man Nixon would bring levity to the conversation 🥲
Profile Image for Beth Knight.
1,053 reviews1 follower
February 19, 2023
I'm not crying, you are😭 You guys, I am so in love with the Eagle Elite series! When I first stumbled upon it years ago, I didn't think I would love it as much as I do. With each book a new couple, heartbreak, love, joy, blood and I would love each new book more than the last, which was shocking to me. This book is no different. I love this one so much. Katya and Santino are the best one for each other, through all the heartbreak and tragedy they came out better on the other side. Their story is sad yet tragically beautiful.

I'm truly happy that I tortured myself by not reading any of this in the newsletter because I knew it would be worth it to wait.

Sigh. I know this is probably the end of this series, for now, and I will patiently wait for more or I might beg, we shall see.

I definitely recommend this series and especially the second generation stories, those are pure joy.
Profile Image for Hopelessly Addicted To Books .
3,479 reviews143 followers
February 20, 2023
The twelfth book of the Eagle Elite takes us back to the past and it was simply glorious. It doesn't matter how much time passes between books or if it is the OG's or the second generation characters my love for these books will never waver.

Rachel manages to bring several different story arcs all in one book and fit them together seamlessly for an unforgettable story. We have a bitter and vengeful Santino wanting out the organisation and Katya oblivious to her true heritage kidnapped and needing rescued. One last job for Santino turns into something he never expected or wanted. I loved the push and pull between them, all the arguments and fights were their own dark version of foreplay. As is normal I won't spoil the storyline but it fits the fast pace of the previous books with the twists I've come to expect but also because of the men and women we've grown to love lots of humour even in the darkest of circumstances. I can't express just how much fun it was to be back with this crazy bunch and as bonus we get glimpses of the second generation as toddlers .... what's not to love.
Profile Image for Hannah.
170 reviews2 followers
February 17, 2023
I don’t even know where to begin. I started reading this series after I binged The Mafia Royals, not realizing I was going to read 11 books in 2-3 weeks… and then awkwardly edit for the last one not knowing if it was happening but having a feeling. I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of this book- mind blown.

Dissolution is the perfect ending. It’s emotional, I got teary eyed, it’s HILARIOUS (the banter and all caps are amazing) it’s seriously perfect.

You get every character you loved- hints of- you get thr bromance that never ends. You get rage hitting, rage shooting, pillows being shot, and Home Depot.


I’m don’t want to spoil anything but just know that this book is the perfect ending, Santino and Katya are it.
Profile Image for Carrie Youngcourt.
224 reviews6 followers
February 20, 2023
Ugh, the nood to Andi how that book tore my heart open! This book had me laughing and crying! I'm so sad this is the very last time we'll ever get to read about all the crazy stuff they do! Thank you so much, Rachel, for so many amazing books on these crazy mafia men and their women!

It opens with Katya being held prisoner with her brother, and they are in need of rescuing. When Santino shows up to rescue them, things don't go as planned. Once Santino has safely gotten what he came there to do, Katya's life is about to change in so many ways!

Santino was tasked with saving Katya and her brother and making sure no harm comes to her. Once they are back with the guys and she is introduced to the men, Santino is tasked to be her Bodygaurd. He doesn't want to he's got one goal, and that's not babysitting her. Can they find a way to get along even with a stench being thrown into his plans?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.