Crimson Vows

Crimson #3

by Wendy Owens

Gia, spurned by Vincent King, finds herself thrust into a world brimming with conflict and dangerous liaisons. Her heart still stinging from Vincent's betrayal, Gia is forced to consider a strategic marriage to Vincent’s cousin and new second-in-command, Marco, as dictated by her father's machinations. However, Gia views Marco as nothing more than a consolation prize, a bitter reminder of her rejection.

Marco, secretly enamored with Gia from a distance, is determined to win her heart. He promises Gia her freedom should she choose not to marry him after their courtship, a pledge stemming from his belief in true love, inspired by his parents' passionate romance. But Gia is skeptical, unable to shake the feeling of being a pawn in a larger game.

As Gia reluctantly agrees to get to know Marco, she encounters his closest friends, Dante and Nico, who introduce her to a world where she can assert control over her destiny and desires. This unexpected turn ignites a fierce desire in Gia to break free from the chains of expectation and to explore her own path in love and power.

However, this newfound independence comes at a price. Gia's growing closeness with Dante and Nico, alongside her evolving relationship with Marco, places her at the heart of a complex web of emotions and power struggles. Her father's ambition and the volatile politics of the mafia world threaten to unravel the delicate balance she tries to maintain.

In a society where alliances shift like sand and power is the ultimate aphrodisiac, Gia's journey is fraught with danger and betrayal. She must navigate the treacherous waters of love, desire, and familial duty, all while forging her own identity in a world that seeks to define her. As she becomes more entangled in her unconventional relationships, Gia faces the ultimate embracing her newfound strength and independence could shatter the fragile peace within the mafia or lead her to a love beyond her wildest dreams.

268 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 16, 2024

About the author

Wendy Owens is a thriller writer, born in the small college town, Oxford Ohio. After attending Miami University, Wendy went onto a career in the visual arts. After several years of creating and selling her own artwork she gave her first love, writing, a try. It’s become a passion ever since.
When she’s not writing, this dog lover can be found spending time with her tech geek husband, their three amazing kids, and three pups. She loves to cook, watch movies, and play games.

If you want to follow her on social media you can visit:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WendyLOwens
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wendy-...
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a Mafia Romance, and this is the third book in the Crimson series. I have read the first two books in this series before picking up this book. I really feel you need to read this series in order because there is a lot in this book that you would not follow easily if you had not read the other book in this series. I feel the storyline of this book was not fully developed. I also feel this book leaves you hanging at the end. I did enjoy getting to know the characters in this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Debleena · Rating 4 out of 5]

From reading the 3 books, it's clear that I love Gia , tolerate Eva and liked and then started despising Amelia. Vincent is a selfish,manipulative bastard whom I never liked.
The throne he sits on is the one which he doesn't deserve. Gia , Macro, Nico would make be better leaders than Vincent, who is lead by cowardice, manipulations and double crossing. I really hope that Gia ,along with her crew deserve the proper respect and end to their story, and to hell with the other characters. My heart broken for Dante, he deserves vengeance and justice.

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book has some explicit sex scenes. The story is about Marco, Gia, Nico, and Dante. Just as they are all becoming closer their lives are turned upside down. Things go from bad to worse. The story will keep you in suspense and wanting more.

I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in the King mafia series. This 3rd book concentrates on their cousin Marco who is the Consigliere for Vincent, the son who took over from his father Edward as head of the family. It surrounds his relationship with Gia, who he has feelings for and Nico and Dante who end up in a relationship with Gia also. Marco overhears a private conversation between Vincent and his brother in law Alexei which involves Gia. He is put in a position between loyalty to the family and the commitment he made to his future wife Gia. But when Amelia, Vincent's sister hears that there is unrest and a possible coup against her brother, things start spiralling out of control putting Marco, Gia, Nico and Dante in danger.

A good 3rd book. I initially had trouble with Gia personality, she really didn't click for me, but during the book, you see her vulnerable side come out as well as her steely resolve, so I did warm up to her slightly. You feel for Marco who has always put his family first above his own desires but then see how is loyalty is rewarded by Vincent and Amelia. Can the 4 of them come back from this or will fate have other plans for them?

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing book. The others in the series have been but this was excellent.

This was about Gia and second in command of the Mafia, Marco. She is coming into her own power gradually but is Marco who wants her. both are on a learning curve in this book. Him about possessiveness and letting go to get what you want And Her to knowing your own power and fighting for your own purpose

Marco and Gia certainly get the connection eventually but as usually outside forces aren't helping to fuel the flames but attraction wins.

Very well done, Wendy Owen's book really grips and pulls you along. I like Mafia book and this is top rate. can't wait for more to come.

It's such a brilliant story!!!

[Michelle Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was book 3 in this series. I felt this book didn't hit the height as books 1 and 2.

The characters in this book seemed to get thrown together and I felt we didn't really get a sense of them as a group. Even Nico and Dante for me, didn't really get their connection.

Marco and Gia together I didn't really feel their connection either. Their chemistry was kind of there but it did't really jump off the page at me. It was more a convenience for Gia and that anything deep was more from Marco.

The ending of this book was sad which was a shame. Definitely a cliff hanger and it sets it up for the next book, thats for sure.

The book did flow and it was easy to read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Yolanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started off with high expectations of this book. It started sleeping for me and I thought the storyline was rushed with all the men she was with. It did pick up towards the middle of the book. I didnt like the storyline of him against his family. Then bring in Dante who seemed troubled in his soul. Gia has so much anger in her. Nico is just along for the ride. Marco was put in the middle but now has no choices left. The book turned out to be pretty good and sets up the next book for a showdown. Can't wait to se how it ends.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jordan Fiest · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crimson Vow is book three in the Crimson Series. This story does continue into the fourth book of the series.

I really didn't realize how much I disliked some characters until this book. Amelia was too much. She needed to back up and not act like she was in charge. Vincent was the same character from the previous book. He was the leader that let others lead him.

You'd think this book was about them but it was not. This was about Gia and her men. Gia was wronged in so many way previously in the series. This is her starting to take back her power and her rights. I was glad she was willing to stand up for herself and her worth.

[lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Crimson series and while it was a good book it wasn't my favorite. I just couldn't connect with the characters but that's a me thing. I loved how Marco was protective of Gia even with her continuing to push him away. Once again I love Nico he is so sweet and of course also protective of the one's he loves. I have always liked Amelia but not so much in this book and of course never liked Vincent for obvious reasons. Even though this wasn't my favorite I would definitely still recommend it as well as the rest of the series.

[Anne Jenkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading the previous books I was expecting to see the characters and plot developing in a certain way, but that did not happen, characters that I thought going to go a certain way did not! I have to say I found that I disliked most of the characters in this book but mostly Gia, who seems to epitomise hypocrisy and disregard for anyone but herself. Having said that I will be reading the next book in this series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

We're back with King Mafia in book 3 of the Crimson series and things have gotten wayyyyy out of hand. Lies, deceit and betrayals are in abundance and Gia Casaletto, Marco and Nico seem to be at the center of it all. Vincent is as in charge as ever but I think he's letting arrogance get the better of him at times. Crimson Vows ends on a cliffhanger and I'm beyond excited to see what's next for this bunch in Crimson Sins.

[Anna M. Diaz]

Gia Casaletto/Marco/Nico/Dante. Marco - Vincent's Consigliere. Nico - Security - Polyamorous. Dante - Capo - Bi-Sexual. Gia/Marco - engaged. Dangerous. Deadly. Violent. Secrets. Lies. Revelations. Criminals. Assumptions. Suspicions. Inaccuracies. Explanations. Unaccepted. Retaliation. Possessive. Protective. Gripping. Thrilling. Action packed. Attraction. Taboo. Affection. Consensual. Acceptance. Wonderful characters and endearing story. Love. HEA? Entertaining

[Shifty Bugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

OMG!! This was a heart pumping, adrenalin rush and the emotions throughout this book. This story had twist and turns, heartache, action, danger, enemies, anger, tragedy, trauma, betrayal, lies, secrets, engagement, family, bonding Polyamory, pleasures and plenty of love. When Gia rescued some people that someone was wantingthem dead.

[Jaime Yates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 3 in the Crimson series. The first two books should be read first, and this book ends with a cliffhanger. This is my first book series by the author, but will not be the last! This book was about Gia and her men. Gia was wronged in so many ways previously in the series. This story had twists and turns, heartache, secrets, action, lies, danger, enemies, anger, tragedy, trauma, and betrayal. I was hooked right from the start till the very last page. I cannot wait for the next book!!

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gia is spurned by Vincent in book2 and now her father wants her to marry Marco, Vincent's cousin and second in command who secretly loved Gia from afar but she doesnt want to be a pawn to her families games, and with Nico and Dante added to the mix just how will they all fair? Well written steamy RH push and pulls desires, and more!

[Marina Garnica · Rating 4 out of 5]

As it happened in the second book, once I get to know more some of the characters I start disliking them.
I liked Marco and Nico, not a surprise on Dante's storyline and I find Gia tremendously hypocrit.She is the same as Vincent, not trusting Marco and making him run like a headless chicken.
I hope next instalment is war between the girls

[Iyeda Okisai]

Wow wow wow. So I love a strong woman who knows what she wants and can make it know.

I was lost at first but I caught on as my anger towards Vincent mounted. Marco well……… That is all I have to say.

Nico puppy dog Nico yes.

Gia is my spirit animal.

Now I have to start from the beginning cause I am heavily invested.

4/5

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

What the heck is going on? Ms. Owens has done a magical job of keeping me guessing!

Gia and her guys, just, YES!!! PLEASE!!!

So many twists and turns. This path is so windy. AND, at the end, yep, you guessed it, a very tall cliff! Hanger!!! LOL

It'll be hard to wait to see what Ms. Owens has in store for Gia, Marco, Dante and Nico. And, well even Vincent!!!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful. This is the third book in the series, I was glue to it. I enjoyed all the characters. The drama, twists and turns and a lot of betrayals so many of them. Has me looking forward to the next book. This is the first series I have read from Wendy Owens and not my last,

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nita · Rating 3 out of 5]

The thing I liked the most about this book was the Gia was unapologetically herself. Despite being betrayed if you will by Vincent or maybe because of it Gia fought to gain what belongs to her. She personifies strong feminine energy.

[Sammye · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Crimson series. It’s the continuation of Gia’s story with Vincent, Marco and Dante. It’s steamy, well written and full of drama, betrayals and deceit. It will keep you on the edge of your seat and invested in what is to come next in Crimson Sins.

[Genoveva · Rating 4 out of 5]

Please check all CW and TW before starting this one. Amelia and Alexi's story was wow. From families that do not want to see them together they cannot help but be pulled into each others orbits. I was not ready for all the secrets to be revealed like OMG. But that kept me reading.

[Autumn Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75⭐️
I really enjoyed this book! It definitely takes a different turn than the previous books which is a twist I wasn’t expecting. There was spice and twists in this dark mafia romance.

[C. M. Hubbard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't stop reading

This book gave me everything. A love triangle worth fighting for. It has suspense to keep you on edge. Gia is a strong woman who goes after what she wants.

[Lex Burris · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️

[Susanne Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark mafia romance. Love the twist.

[Jesslyn Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series definitely gets better with each book. I don't want to ruin it for anyone but this action in this one is so good

[Jesse Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

This has been my favorite book out of the series so far. Just the action with the crazy love story. I can't get enough. can't wait for the next one

[Deyce M · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this as an eARC and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This book gives a bit more insight into Gia’s character and her feelings following the aftermath of the previous book's events. She is a strong FMC who’s trying to survive in a men’s world. She is comfortable with her lifestyle, especially in the bedroom. Marcos is so enamored with Gia that he is willing to accept her conditions despite not liking them. Regardless, the way he puts her pleasure before his own wants…is so hot. Nico is such a sweetheart and protective towards her along with Dante. It broke my heart with Dante at the end, the way he was struggling with his emotions of the situation they were in.
The plot was interesting and easy to follow. It left me curious to see how it will end. This is the third book in a series and I highly suggest reading the first two to understand the storyline. It does end with a cliffhanger and will continue into Nikolai’s book. I am curious to know how their story will end.