A review by lyloveslit
The Cartier Cartel: The Inc. by Jessica N. Watkins

slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.0

Jessica N. Watkins delivers a gripping tale of loyalty, love, and survival in The Cartier Cartel. This urban fiction novel follows the dynamic duo of brothers Icon and Legend Cartier as they navigate the tumultuous world of running their family’s cartel while managing personal relationships and raising their younger siblings. The result is a story packed with tension, unexpected twists, and complex characters that keep you hooked from start to finish.

The brothers’ personalities couldn’t be more different, yet they balance each other in ways that make their bond both relatable and compelling. Icon is the epitome of calm and calculated, steering the cartel with precision. Legend, on the other hand, is a fiery hothead, acting on impulse and relying on raw emotion. Their opposing natures create friction, but also make their partnership one of the book’s strongest elements.

Watkins doesn’t just stop with the brothers. The younger siblings, Tempo and Saint, add another layer to the story as they struggle to prove their worth in the cartel, diving headfirst into challenges they may not be ready for. Their journey introduces tension and high-stakes moments that deepen the family’s struggles and highlight the cost of the lifestyle they’ve inherited.

Romance also takes center stage in The Cartier Cartel, with Icon and Legend both finding unexpected love. Icon’s relationship with Livia, a confident woman unlike anyone he’s encountered, is a refreshing take on opposites attracting. Their chemistry feels natural, but their romance is fraught with challenges, especially when Livia discovers the truth about his dangerous lifestyle. Meanwhile, Legend’s budding relationship with Aria, an art analyst from a family that would never approve of him, is equally compelling. The added layer of Aria’s own secret brings an extra dose of drama and intrigue.

What sets this book apart is Watkins’ ability to weave intricate storylines that balance street-life drama with heartfelt moments. The stakes are raised when one of the Cartier Cartel’s last loyal soldiers is found dead, sparking a war that threatens everything they’ve worked to protect. Watkins expertly uses this catalyst to propel the story forward, introducing twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end.

Overall, The Cartier Cartel is an engrossing read that combines action, drama, and romance in a way that only Jessica N. Watkins can. The characters are richly developed, the dialogue feels authentic, and the plot is filled with enough surprises to keep you on the edge of your seat. If you’re looking for a story that offers grit, heart, and unexpected moments, this is a book you won’t want to miss.