E.M. Gayle's Broken Saint is a gripping tale that delves into the dark and often treacherous world of power, control, and forbidden love. The novel is a compelling exploration of a young woman's struggle against the chains of familial duty and the intoxicating allure of forbidden passion. At its core, Broken Saint is a story about choices—or the lack thereof—and the consequences that follow.

The protagonist, Catherine Novaline Cullotta, known as Nova, is a character that embodies both strength and vulnerability. Raised under the iron fist of her father, a powerful figure in the city's underworld, Nova is a pawn in a game much larger than herself. Her father’s demand for her to marry a man of his choosing is not just a familial obligation but a binding contract that promises to strip her of her autonomy. This setup creates a palpable tension that runs throughout the novel, as Nova grapples with the impending loss of her freedom.

Gayle skillfully crafts Nova's internal conflict, making her a relatable and sympathetic character. The five years of freedom Nova was granted in exchange for her eventual submission is a poignant reminder of the temporary nature of her autonomy. This period of liberty allowed her to taste a life of her own making, only to have it snatched away as the deadline looms. The author captures Nova’s desperation and defiance with a deft hand, allowing readers to feel her turmoil and root for her emancipation.

The introduction of Nova's secret lover adds another layer of complexity to the narrative. This unnamed man, who holds Nova's heart, represents everything she desires but cannot have. Their clandestine meetings are charged with passion and a sense of impending doom, as both characters are acutely aware of the ticking clock. Gayle's portrayal of their relationship is both tender and fraught with tension, highlighting the bittersweet nature of their connection.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of power dynamics. Nova's father is a looming presence throughout the story, his influence felt even in his absence. He is the embodiment of patriarchal control, using his daughter as a bargaining chip to solidify his own power. This theme of control is mirrored in Nova's relationship with her lover, where submission and dominance play a significant role. Gayle navigates these dynamics with nuance, offering a commentary on the ways in which power can be both seductive and destructive.

The narrative is further enriched by Gayle's attention to detail and atmospheric writing. The city, with its shadowy corners and hidden dangers, serves as a fitting backdrop for Nova's story. The author paints a vivid picture of a world where danger lurks around every corner, and trust is a rare commodity. This setting amplifies the stakes, making Nova's predicament all the more urgent and compelling.

In terms of character development, Gayle excels at creating multidimensional characters who defy easy categorization. Nova is not a passive victim but a woman determined to fight for her own destiny, even when the odds are stacked against her. Her lover, though initially enigmatic, is revealed to be a man with his own secrets and vulnerabilities. Their relationship is a dance of equals, each bringing their own strengths and weaknesses to the table.

Comparatively, Broken Saint shares thematic similarities with other works in the romantic suspense genre, such as Sylvia Day's Crossfire series or Jodi Ellen Malpas's This Man trilogy. Like these novels, Gayle's work explores the intersection of love, power, and control, but with a unique twist that sets it apart. The mob element adds a layer of danger and intrigue that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Overall, Broken Saint is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of romantic suspense and dark romance. E.M. Gayle has crafted a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. The novel's exploration of choice, power, and forbidden love is both timely and timeless, making it a standout in its genre.

For those interested in a tale that combines romance with a touch of danger and a deep dive into the complexities of human relationships, Broken Saint is a must-read. It is a testament to Gayle's skill as a storyteller that she can weave such a rich and compelling narrative, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what she will come up with next.