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Kings of the Castle #2
King of Chatham
Mariano “Reno” DeLuca uses his skills and resources to create safe havens for women who find themselves in dangerous situations. Unfortunately, a surge in criminal activity in the Chatham area threatens the women’s anonymity and security, including the mysterious beauty who landed on the doorstep of The Second Chance at Life Women’s Shelter right before an all hands on deck call that summons him to The Castle.
When Zuri Okusanya, an exotic Tanzanian Princess, arrives seeking refuge from an arranged marriage and its deadly consequences, Mariano is now forced to relocate the women in the shelter to an even more secluded place. He is striving hard not to lose his heart to the forbidden goddess, all while fighting an enemy who’s supposed to be an ally and fending off immoral attempts by men who covet his seat on The Castle’s board.
Will Mariano have the power to defeat his adversaries before they destroy him and the woman he loves?
ABOUT THE KINGS OF THE CASTLE SERIES
Each King book is a standalone, NO cliffhangers
USA Today, New York Times, and National Bestselling Authors work together to provide you with a world you'll never want to leave. The Castle.
Fate made them brothers, but protecting the Castle, each other, and the women they love, will make them Kings. Their combined efforts to find the current Castle members responsible for the attempt on their mentor’s life, is the beginning of dangerous challenges that will alter the path of their lives forever.
These powerful men, unexpectedly brought together by their pasts and current circumstances, will become a force to be reckoned with.
Book 1–Kings of the Castle (the introduction to the series)
Book 2–King of Chatham
Book 3–King of Evanston
Book 4–King of Devon
Book 5–King of Morgan Park
Book 6–King of South Shore
Book 7–King of Lincoln Park
Book 8-King of Hyde Park
Book 9– King of Lawndale
When Zuri Okusanya, an exotic Tanzanian Princess, arrives seeking refuge from an arranged marriage and its deadly consequences, Mariano is now forced to relocate the women in the shelter to an even more secluded place. He is striving hard not to lose his heart to the forbidden goddess, all while fighting an enemy who’s supposed to be an ally and fending off immoral attempts by men who covet his seat on The Castle’s board.
Will Mariano have the power to defeat his adversaries before they destroy him and the woman he loves?
ABOUT THE KINGS OF THE CASTLE SERIES
Each King book is a standalone, NO cliffhangers
USA Today, New York Times, and National Bestselling Authors work together to provide you with a world you'll never want to leave. The Castle.
Fate made them brothers, but protecting the Castle, each other, and the women they love, will make them Kings. Their combined efforts to find the current Castle members responsible for the attempt on their mentor’s life, is the beginning of dangerous challenges that will alter the path of their lives forever.
These powerful men, unexpectedly brought together by their pasts and current circumstances, will become a force to be reckoned with.
Book 1–Kings of the Castle (the introduction to the series)
Book 2–King of Chatham
Book 3–King of Evanston
Book 4–King of Devon
Book 5–King of Morgan Park
Book 6–King of South Shore
Book 7–King of Lincoln Park
Book 8-King of Hyde Park
Book 9– King of Lawndale
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2019
49 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
London St. Charles
16 books91 followersNational Bestselling Author, London St. Charles has always had a passion for the pen, paper, and books. She is a Chicago native who uses the Windy City as a backdrop to the contemporary women’s fiction, crime fiction, interracial romance, and suspense stories she writes. London has contributed to two anthologies, Sugar and Just One Kiss, and one series, Kings of the Castle with New York Times and USA TODAY Bestselling authors. Her debut novel, The Husband We Share, hit the AALBC Bestsellers List within six months of release and was followed by her recent literary offerings: Betrayal of Trust, King of Chatham, Sugarcoated Deception, and Deadly Deception. She is a beta reader and a proud member of several writer’s groups.
She began writing short stories at the age of eight. Using construction paper and a hole punch, London would bind the stories together with yarn and tape and would give them to her mother as gifts. That zest for writing followed London into high school where she took an elective Advanced Writing Class, which further fed her creative mind. She also wrote poetry, which she still has, typed and dated in a binder to this day.
Driven by wanting to be more present in her children’s lives, she resigned from her successful sixteen-year career as a Pharmacy Technician and opened a business as a Licensed Childcare Provider. She has found tremendous joy in securing a safe and loving environment for families seeking affordable childcare for their little ones, while being available to her family as well.
When not writing, you can find London spending time with her loving husband, children, and mother, playing Spades, catching a basketball game, binge-watching one of her favorite shows on Netflix, or with her nose stuck in a book.
She began writing short stories at the age of eight. Using construction paper and a hole punch, London would bind the stories together with yarn and tape and would give them to her mother as gifts. That zest for writing followed London into high school where she took an elective Advanced Writing Class, which further fed her creative mind. She also wrote poetry, which she still has, typed and dated in a binder to this day.
Driven by wanting to be more present in her children’s lives, she resigned from her successful sixteen-year career as a Pharmacy Technician and opened a business as a Licensed Childcare Provider. She has found tremendous joy in securing a safe and loving environment for families seeking affordable childcare for their little ones, while being available to her family as well.
When not writing, you can find London spending time with her loving husband, children, and mother, playing Spades, catching a basketball game, binge-watching one of her favorite shows on Netflix, or with her nose stuck in a book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
December 27, 2019
ARC received for review
I started reading the first book, but there was just too much being introduced that I was overwhelmed. I put it down. I wasn't lost for not having read it. There were a couple things that I'm sure were talked about in it, but no biggie.
Reno and Zuri have sparks flying from the beginning. He resists due to a promise he made, but in the end she wins him over. His dad is something else, but then hers is worse. The bad guy is taken care of which surprised me. I thought it would take it to the end of all the books to take care of him.
I started reading the first book, but there was just too much being introduced that I was overwhelmed. I put it down. I wasn't lost for not having read it. There were a couple things that I'm sure were talked about in it, but no biggie.
Reno and Zuri have sparks flying from the beginning. He resists due to a promise he made, but in the end she wins him over. His dad is something else, but then hers is worse. The bad guy is taken care of which surprised me. I thought it would take it to the end of all the books to take care of him.
January 8, 2020
King of Chatham by London St. Charles is book two of the nine book Kings of the Castle series penned by various female authors. Book one, Kings of the Castle is an introduction to all of the Kings but focuses on Vikkas Germaine. Books two through nine are standalones with no cliffhangers and can be read in any order, though I’m reading them in sequence.
Nine former students and future Kings of The Castle are recruited by their former teacher and mentor, Khalil Germaine. He directs them to root out and eliminate the corruption that has infiltrated The Castle, a humanitarian endeavor he founded. They vow to protect The Castle and each other from future attacks. Along the way they meet some extraordinary women. This is the story of Mariano DeLuca.
Mariano “Reno” DeLuca is a former architect of Italian descent. He built a state-of-the-art women’s shelter in the hood. The Second Chance at Life Women’s Shelter is a safe haven for women. Reno started the shelter in memory of his high school friend, Ebony, who was beaten to death by her boyfriend. He has a strong reaction to new client, Zuri Okusanya, and is falling for her, even though his personal policy is to not get in romantic entanglements with the women seeking shelter and protection.
Zuri Okusanya is a Tanzanian Princess seeking protection at Second Chance at Life Women’s Shelter. She’s been told that she can trust Mariano DeLuca. Zuri is falling for Reno, which is ironic, since she’s running from a man.
King of Chatham is a perfect accounting of Reno’s story. The main characters, Zuri and Reno, are both well-rounded and likable. Reno’s place in the world of The Castle is cemented and his personal world is revealed. Zuri is little more than a footnote in book one, but she finally becomes a living, breathing character with a complete backstory. The plot kept me interested from start to finish. The dialogue is vivid and representative of the time, place and the individual characters. As advertised, the ending is perfection that doesn’t leave you hanging from a literary cliff.
King of Chatham is definitely a main dish in the multicultural literary feast served in book one. I completely enjoyed this novel and rate it an easy 5 out of 5 stars. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys multicultural romantic suspense or well-written contemporary romance. Be aware, there is explicit sexual content that may be offensive to some readers.
My thanks to Independent Publishers Group and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Nine former students and future Kings of The Castle are recruited by their former teacher and mentor, Khalil Germaine. He directs them to root out and eliminate the corruption that has infiltrated The Castle, a humanitarian endeavor he founded. They vow to protect The Castle and each other from future attacks. Along the way they meet some extraordinary women. This is the story of Mariano DeLuca.
Mariano “Reno” DeLuca is a former architect of Italian descent. He built a state-of-the-art women’s shelter in the hood. The Second Chance at Life Women’s Shelter is a safe haven for women. Reno started the shelter in memory of his high school friend, Ebony, who was beaten to death by her boyfriend. He has a strong reaction to new client, Zuri Okusanya, and is falling for her, even though his personal policy is to not get in romantic entanglements with the women seeking shelter and protection.
Zuri Okusanya is a Tanzanian Princess seeking protection at Second Chance at Life Women’s Shelter. She’s been told that she can trust Mariano DeLuca. Zuri is falling for Reno, which is ironic, since she’s running from a man.
King of Chatham is a perfect accounting of Reno’s story. The main characters, Zuri and Reno, are both well-rounded and likable. Reno’s place in the world of The Castle is cemented and his personal world is revealed. Zuri is little more than a footnote in book one, but she finally becomes a living, breathing character with a complete backstory. The plot kept me interested from start to finish. The dialogue is vivid and representative of the time, place and the individual characters. As advertised, the ending is perfection that doesn’t leave you hanging from a literary cliff.
King of Chatham is definitely a main dish in the multicultural literary feast served in book one. I completely enjoyed this novel and rate it an easy 5 out of 5 stars. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys multicultural romantic suspense or well-written contemporary romance. Be aware, there is explicit sexual content that may be offensive to some readers.
My thanks to Independent Publishers Group and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
April 8, 2021
Good story.
January 4, 2020
When I first saw this series it really interested me to read, so I have been gathering the books as they are released. I have to admit the characters surprised me too as when I think of Kings, I thought it was at first - Royalty boundaries but then it became clear that it was more suburb boundaries as the book is set in Chicago. It also has a mafia suspense feel to the covers too and I wondered if the Kings were baddies but as I got to know the main character in King of Chatham Reno and his buddies - the other Kings, I realized that they were all deep down really nice guys who appear tough but deep down have big hearts and want to help and clean the city up. King of the Chatham starts off with us meeting Zuri - a Tanzanian female who has returned home despite warnings to mourn her mother at her funeral. During that night, her father tries to stop her from leaving but she manages with her Mama Winnie's help to escape. Her mother before she died, made sure to give Winnie an address for Zuri to use if she was ever in danger. Mariano aka Reno DeLuca is King of Chatham and owns a Women's Shelter for abused females. When Zuri arrives he wants to help her and feels a strong connection. During the book, he tries his best not to get romantically involved with her but by the end of the book, he gives in to temptation. Though not before we are given a big huge suspense and action-packed storyline. I really enjoyed this series and looking forward to reading the other King's stories. King of Chatham has something for everyone from friendships to romance to suspense and edginess. There was also a character in this book Xavier who is a policeman who has his own story - The Husband We Share which I am looking forward to reading as the blurb reminds me of Taryn Fisher's The Wives.
Want to read
December 22, 2019💝
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
💝
February 25, 2020
So we meet Zuni who has left her homeland because her father was a horrible person (i hate that the one you should be able to count on you can't) fathers that treat there daughters like commodities kill me, maybe its because I have the best dad on earth. Anywho as Zuni is escaping she goes to a woman shelter for abused woman where she meets Reno. Reno also doesn't have the best dad, but hers still takes the cake..Reno is trying not to feel anything for her but eventually the forces could not be stopped.
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author...netgalley (voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author...netgalley (voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
April 7, 2020
King of Chatham
Having to return to a home where you once fled at the aide of your mother only to return to pay respects to her home going (saddened)
Learning said truths about a father that only valued money and power above his family (outraged)
Having encountered numerous strong women that wanted her to live the life her mother paid the ultimate price for (blessing)
How far is Zuri willing to go to escape again?
Having lost a childhood friend that was constantly on the receiving end of a father’s beatings, Reno vowed to go to school and prepare himself to be able to build a safe haven for women in need (pro active)
Going to an all women’s conference, Reno happened to meet a lady that asked for his assistance if her daughter ever graced his presence (gutsy)
What will Reno do when he discovers his father has willfully put a woman in danger that he provided a safe haven for (betrayal)
Can Reno’s rely on his brothers to help?
Having to return to a home where you once fled at the aide of your mother only to return to pay respects to her home going (saddened)
Learning said truths about a father that only valued money and power above his family (outraged)
Having encountered numerous strong women that wanted her to live the life her mother paid the ultimate price for (blessing)
How far is Zuri willing to go to escape again?
Having lost a childhood friend that was constantly on the receiving end of a father’s beatings, Reno vowed to go to school and prepare himself to be able to build a safe haven for women in need (pro active)
Going to an all women’s conference, Reno happened to meet a lady that asked for his assistance if her daughter ever graced his presence (gutsy)
What will Reno do when he discovers his father has willfully put a woman in danger that he provided a safe haven for (betrayal)
Can Reno’s rely on his brothers to help?
July 31, 2025
If romantic suspense were a sport, London St. Charles would be the MVP!
King of Chatham had me glued to my seat like I owed the book rent. Reno? Smooth, brave, and the type of hero who makes you forget your real-life to-do list. Zuri? A runaway princess with more heart than a deck of cards. Together, they set the page on fire, sometimes with romance, sometimes with danger, and always with that one more chapter energy.
The suspense kept me side-eyeing everyone in Chatham like, “Are YOU the villain?” And the romance… let’s just say, I smiled like I got a text from my crush. London blends tension, heart, and action so effortlessly that I didn’t notice my coffee went cold, and that’s saying something!
If you love page-turning suspense, swoon-worthy romance, and stories that feel like a movie you wish was on Netflix, grab this book. London St. Charles doesn’t just write stories, she rules the castle.
King of Chatham had me glued to my seat like I owed the book rent. Reno? Smooth, brave, and the type of hero who makes you forget your real-life to-do list. Zuri? A runaway princess with more heart than a deck of cards. Together, they set the page on fire, sometimes with romance, sometimes with danger, and always with that one more chapter energy.
The suspense kept me side-eyeing everyone in Chatham like, “Are YOU the villain?” And the romance… let’s just say, I smiled like I got a text from my crush. London blends tension, heart, and action so effortlessly that I didn’t notice my coffee went cold, and that’s saying something!
If you love page-turning suspense, swoon-worthy romance, and stories that feel like a movie you wish was on Netflix, grab this book. London St. Charles doesn’t just write stories, she rules the castle.
March 28, 2025
Enjoy my books from 2007. They are called:
1. Kings Of The Castle 1
2. King Of Chatham
3. King Of Evanston
4. King Of Devon
5. King Of Morgan Park
6. King Of South Shore
7. King Of Lincoln Park
8. The Complete Sherlock Holmes Volume I = Sherlock Holmes 1
9. En Journey To Another Place called India This Time = Sherlock Holmes 2
10. The Case-Book Of Sherlock Holmes Law = In Democrat Law Time (3), Miami Law (4)
11. The Lost World: Return To America (USA) = Challenger (5), Professor X (6)
12. The Valley Of Fear: What Ails The Congressmen = Sherlock Holmes 7
13. His Last Bow: Hello Lincoln = Sherlock Holmes 8
14. The Complete Sherlock Holmes Volume II = Consider The Job Done, Batman, and Vote.
1. Kings Of The Castle 1
2. King Of Chatham
3. King Of Evanston
4. King Of Devon
5. King Of Morgan Park
6. King Of South Shore
7. King Of Lincoln Park
8. The Complete Sherlock Holmes Volume I = Sherlock Holmes 1
9. En Journey To Another Place called India This Time = Sherlock Holmes 2
10. The Case-Book Of Sherlock Holmes Law = In Democrat Law Time (3), Miami Law (4)
11. The Lost World: Return To America (USA) = Challenger (5), Professor X (6)
12. The Valley Of Fear: What Ails The Congressmen = Sherlock Holmes 7
13. His Last Bow: Hello Lincoln = Sherlock Holmes 8
14. The Complete Sherlock Holmes Volume II = Consider The Job Done, Batman, and Vote.
April 4, 2020
When Zuri Okusanya, an exotic Tanzanian Princess, arrives seeking refuge from an arranged marriage and its deadly consequences, Mariano is now forced to relocate the women in the shelter to an even more secluded place. He is striving hard not to lose his heart to the forbidden goddess, all while fighting an enemy who’s supposed to be an ally and fending off immoral attempts by men who covet his seat on The Castle’s board.
This was a pretty good read. I liked both main characters. I liked following both of them on this adventure. I look forward to reading more from this author.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
This was a pretty good read. I liked both main characters. I liked following both of them on this adventure. I look forward to reading more from this author.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
October 9, 2020
Good Good Job!!
The first volley is a direct hit! The writer spins a story like a silky web and its just as strong . We get a chance in this story to meet all the brother and the man who changed their lives. We also get to see love blossom and take root and take care of some nasty people. If you are looking for the full Monty then you have it with this story. Take a trip to the Castle and meet the Kings.
The first volley is a direct hit! The writer spins a story like a silky web and its just as strong . We get a chance in this story to meet all the brother and the man who changed their lives. We also get to see love blossom and take root and take care of some nasty people. If you are looking for the full Monty then you have it with this story. Take a trip to the Castle and meet the Kings.
October 10, 2020
Reno and Zuri!! 🤗
I loved everything about this book! Reno’s dedication to taking care of the women and kids who were caught up in situations not of their makings was astounding! Then comes Zuri and all of his walls tumbled down. Zuri definitely knew enough to take care of herself and honor her mother, as well. Her father was a whole different story! I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I’m going to delve into the King of Evanston next! Kudos, London!! 💜
I loved everything about this book! Reno’s dedication to taking care of the women and kids who were caught up in situations not of their makings was astounding! Then comes Zuri and all of his walls tumbled down. Zuri definitely knew enough to take care of herself and honor her mother, as well. Her father was a whole different story! I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I’m going to delve into the King of Evanston next! Kudos, London!! 💜
June 5, 2020
King of Chatham!
Zuri and Reno's chemistry was strong from the beginning. This book covered some African background, mix race couples and good old fashioned racism. Zuri was so strong she kept her mother's dream alive and the goals she had for herself. She did not allow herself to be bullied by her father. I am enjoying the Kings of the Castle and off to read the next one.
Zuri and Reno's chemistry was strong from the beginning. This book covered some African background, mix race couples and good old fashioned racism. Zuri was so strong she kept her mother's dream alive and the goals she had for herself. She did not allow herself to be bullied by her father. I am enjoying the Kings of the Castle and off to read the next one.
December 30, 2021
Trust
I am enjoying the King series. I love that they all are there for each other. So exciting to know they all have their own talents that complement each other. I am glad that Reno found his soulmate, and that he was able to do the things he did for her, even going up against her father and "promised" husband. I can't wait to read the next book.
I am enjoying the King series. I love that they all are there for each other. So exciting to know they all have their own talents that complement each other. I am glad that Reno found his soulmate, and that he was able to do the things he did for her, even going up against her father and "promised" husband. I can't wait to read the next book.
January 8, 2022
Enjoyed this book. I've never read anything by this author however, I was looking over the author's catalog and noticed that Detective Carter was mentioned in another book The Husband We Share. Now will be grabbing the other King of Castle books to read each individual story.
February 15, 2022
Enchanting!
I really enjoyed learning more about Reno and his role as a king. The book has a nice flow which was easy to follow. The author allowed me to visit Chicago although I have never been there in person.
I really enjoyed learning more about Reno and his role as a king. The book has a nice flow which was easy to follow. The author allowed me to visit Chicago although I have never been there in person.
December 15, 2019
3.75 stars-
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 26, 2019
Mariano “Reno” DeLuca uses his skills and resources to create safe havens for women who find themselves in dangerous situations. Unfortunately, a surge in criminal activity in the Chatham area threatens the women’s anonymity and security, including the mysterious beauty who landed on the doorstep of The Second Chance at Life Women’s Shelter right before an all hands on deck call that summons him to The Castle.
When Zuri Okusanya, an exotic Tanzanian Princess, arrives seeking refuge from an arranged marriage and its deadly consequences, Mariano is now forced to relocate the women in the shelter to an even more secluded place. He is striving hard not to lose his heart to the forbidden goddess, all while fighting an enemy who’s supposed to be an ally and fending off immoral attempts by men who covet his seat on The Castle’s board.
Will Mariano have the power to defeat his adversaries before they destroy him and the woman he loves?
••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars-KING OF CHATHAM by London St. Charles is the second instalment in the multi-authored / multi-cultural contemporary, adult KINGS OF THE CASTLE erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on nine ‘brothers’ from the streets of Chicago (Vikkas, Reno, Shaz, Jai, Daron, Kaleb, Grant, Dro and Dwayne) mentored and taught by the mysterious Khalil Germaine at the exclusive Macro International Magnet School in Chicago. This is King of Chatham, Mariano ‘Reno’ DeLuca, and Tanzanian Princess Zuri Okusanya’s story line. KING OF CHATHAM can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion. Some of the events in King of Chatham run parallel to and cross over with the events of book one Kings of the Castle.
SOME BACKGROUND: Nine men, all ‘brother’s in arms from the mean streets of Chicago, have been called together by their former mentor Khalil Germaine in an effort to re-make and reclaim the restrictive and exclusionary THE CASTLE, an institution now involved with illegal activities including drug trafficking, human sexual slavery and more.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Reno and Zuri) KING OF CHATHAM focuses on the safety of Tanzanian Princess Zuri Okusayna. Several years earlier, Zuri’s mother and the women of Zuri’s tribe helped rescue our heroine by sending her to the USA to avoid female genital mutilation, and the forced marriage to a man as brutal as her father. Zuri’s father Godfrey had sold his daughter to an older man, for money and prestige, money with which Godfrey wasn’t willing to part. But the death of her mother found Zuri back in her homeland facing down her father and the man who claimed Zuri as his own. Once again, Zuri would need the help of the women in the community in an effort to remain free of the absolute rule and abuse of the men of her tribe in Tanzania. Enter King of Chatham, Mariano ‘Reno’ DeLuca, and the man with whom Zuri would fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Zuir and Reno, and the potential fall-out as all attempts to protect Zuri fail when her father, and the older members of The Castle, battle to prove they are still in control.
King of Chatham, Mariano ‘Reno’ DeLuca, is a wealthy Italian American who knows racism and prejudices first hand having witnessed his father’s attacks against anyone he deems unworthy including men and women of color. Mariano DeLuca runs a private clinic for abused and battered woman, and will find his happily ever after in the guise of Tanzanian Princess Zuri Okusayna, a client with whom he has no business getting involved.
Meanwhile the Kings of the Castle begin to unravel some of the horrendous crimes of their predecessors including human trafficking when a series of young, Russian girls are brought into Reno’s sister’s medical clinic.
The relationship between Reno and Zuri is one of immediate attraction but forbidden by the rules and ethical issues of Reno’s position as owner of the women’s centre where Zuri has been placed. Zuri knows Reno is the man that calls to her heart but her past is determined to reclaim what is not his to own. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually explicit language and text.
All of the Kings of the Castle play secondary and supporting roles including the quick reappearance of their mentor Khalil Germaine. We are introduced to Zuri’s mother Suby and father Godfrey; Reno’s sister Sofia, and their parents Giacomo and Emma DeLuca; women’s shelter receptionist and Reno’s assistant Skyler Pierson ; Mama Winnie; Djimon, the man to whom Zuri was sold; Detective Carter and Detective Xavier Sharpe; several women living and working at the shelter including Olga Smirnov and her son Yvengy; and Frank Maddox, a man deep into the trafficking and demoralization of women and girls.
KING OF CHATHAM is a story of family and betrayal; sacrifice and love. The fast paced premise is engaging and captivating; the characters are numerous, energetic and dynamic; the romance is seductive and tender.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 26, 2019
Mariano “Reno” DeLuca uses his skills and resources to create safe havens for women who find themselves in dangerous situations. Unfortunately, a surge in criminal activity in the Chatham area threatens the women’s anonymity and security, including the mysterious beauty who landed on the doorstep of The Second Chance at Life Women’s Shelter right before an all hands on deck call that summons him to The Castle.
When Zuri Okusanya, an exotic Tanzanian Princess, arrives seeking refuge from an arranged marriage and its deadly consequences, Mariano is now forced to relocate the women in the shelter to an even more secluded place. He is striving hard not to lose his heart to the forbidden goddess, all while fighting an enemy who’s supposed to be an ally and fending off immoral attempts by men who covet his seat on The Castle’s board.
Will Mariano have the power to defeat his adversaries before they destroy him and the woman he loves?
••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars-KING OF CHATHAM by London St. Charles is the second instalment in the multi-authored / multi-cultural contemporary, adult KINGS OF THE CASTLE erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on nine ‘brothers’ from the streets of Chicago (Vikkas, Reno, Shaz, Jai, Daron, Kaleb, Grant, Dro and Dwayne) mentored and taught by the mysterious Khalil Germaine at the exclusive Macro International Magnet School in Chicago. This is King of Chatham, Mariano ‘Reno’ DeLuca, and Tanzanian Princess Zuri Okusanya’s story line. KING OF CHATHAM can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion. Some of the events in King of Chatham run parallel to and cross over with the events of book one Kings of the Castle.
SOME BACKGROUND: Nine men, all ‘brother’s in arms from the mean streets of Chicago, have been called together by their former mentor Khalil Germaine in an effort to re-make and reclaim the restrictive and exclusionary THE CASTLE, an institution now involved with illegal activities including drug trafficking, human sexual slavery and more.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Reno and Zuri) KING OF CHATHAM focuses on the safety of Tanzanian Princess Zuri Okusayna. Several years earlier, Zuri’s mother and the women of Zuri’s tribe helped rescue our heroine by sending her to the USA to avoid female genital mutilation, and the forced marriage to a man as brutal as her father. Zuri’s father Godfrey had sold his daughter to an older man, for money and prestige, money with which Godfrey wasn’t willing to part. But the death of her mother found Zuri back in her homeland facing down her father and the man who claimed Zuri as his own. Once again, Zuri would need the help of the women in the community in an effort to remain free of the absolute rule and abuse of the men of her tribe in Tanzania. Enter King of Chatham, Mariano ‘Reno’ DeLuca, and the man with whom Zuri would fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Zuir and Reno, and the potential fall-out as all attempts to protect Zuri fail when her father, and the older members of The Castle, battle to prove they are still in control.
King of Chatham, Mariano ‘Reno’ DeLuca, is a wealthy Italian American who knows racism and prejudices first hand having witnessed his father’s attacks against anyone he deems unworthy including men and women of color. Mariano DeLuca runs a private clinic for abused and battered woman, and will find his happily ever after in the guise of Tanzanian Princess Zuri Okusayna, a client with whom he has no business getting involved.
Meanwhile the Kings of the Castle begin to unravel some of the horrendous crimes of their predecessors including human trafficking when a series of young, Russian girls are brought into Reno’s sister’s medical clinic.
The relationship between Reno and Zuri is one of immediate attraction but forbidden by the rules and ethical issues of Reno’s position as owner of the women’s centre where Zuri has been placed. Zuri knows Reno is the man that calls to her heart but her past is determined to reclaim what is not his to own. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually explicit language and text.
All of the Kings of the Castle play secondary and supporting roles including the quick reappearance of their mentor Khalil Germaine. We are introduced to Zuri’s mother Suby and father Godfrey; Reno’s sister Sofia, and their parents Giacomo and Emma DeLuca; women’s shelter receptionist and Reno’s assistant Skyler Pierson ; Mama Winnie; Djimon, the man to whom Zuri was sold; Detective Carter and Detective Xavier Sharpe; several women living and working at the shelter including Olga Smirnov and her son Yvengy; and Frank Maddox, a man deep into the trafficking and demoralization of women and girls.
KING OF CHATHAM is a story of family and betrayal; sacrifice and love. The fast paced premise is engaging and captivating; the characters are numerous, energetic and dynamic; the romance is seductive and tender.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
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May 9, 2020
I am new with this author. I really enjoyed the book. I will read all of the Kings books.
November 20, 2020
Nice story
I enjoyed reading the story of Reno and Zuri. I'm going to continue to read all the books and see how all these gentlemen come together.
I enjoyed reading the story of Reno and Zuri. I'm going to continue to read all the books and see how all these gentlemen come together.
June 16, 2022
A story that shows how a man should treat a woman and how not to do so. It a story about family, friends, and loyalty and so much more.
February 23, 2020
Book two, the Kings of the Castle series, introduces the readers to King Mariano Reno DeLuca, who is the owner and director of the Second Chance at Life Women's Shelter located in the hood. The Second Chance at Life Women's Shelter is a place of refuge for women to restart their lives from devastating circumstances. The Women Shelter offered state of the art facilities and services including apartments and job placement for their clientele.
The book opens with a background story about a Tanzanian goddess named Zuri Okusanya, who sneaks home to attend her beloved mother's funeral. She risks her life due to a bounty placed on her for refusing to participate in a forced marriage. Defying her father's orders and with the help of her mom's inner circle, she returns to Chicago via her student Visa with her father's cronies in tow.
Under the recommendation from her mother, Zuri appeared at the women's shelter seeking safety from her father and Djimon, arranged marriage fiance. Who believes in love at first sight? Reno meets Zuri, and his world changed in a blink of an eye. He felt a strong connection to her, which were against ethics as well as sabotage the shelter. He vowed to protect her at all costs, including disowning someone very close to him. Reno learns someone betrayed him that jeopardize Zuri's life and fueled the criminal behavior at the Castle.
Although this book is separate, the storyline intertwines with the other books thus far. I enjoyed this multicultural romance suspense novel.
The book opens with a background story about a Tanzanian goddess named Zuri Okusanya, who sneaks home to attend her beloved mother's funeral. She risks her life due to a bounty placed on her for refusing to participate in a forced marriage. Defying her father's orders and with the help of her mom's inner circle, she returns to Chicago via her student Visa with her father's cronies in tow.
Under the recommendation from her mother, Zuri appeared at the women's shelter seeking safety from her father and Djimon, arranged marriage fiance. Who believes in love at first sight? Reno meets Zuri, and his world changed in a blink of an eye. He felt a strong connection to her, which were against ethics as well as sabotage the shelter. He vowed to protect her at all costs, including disowning someone very close to him. Reno learns someone betrayed him that jeopardize Zuri's life and fueled the criminal behavior at the Castle.
Although this book is separate, the storyline intertwines with the other books thus far. I enjoyed this multicultural romance suspense novel.
February 17, 2020
Reno is a knight and loves to defend those who are downtrodden. He was more than taken aback when a beauty came breathlessly into his shelter asking for him. His breath was taken from him for a moment. Zuri was alarmed and nearly crazy after she found out what her father had done to her mother. She had to make it back to Chicago to get away from her father and her fiance. She did not want what was planned for her but to find her forever love as her mother wanted for her.
She fell into the arms of someone who gave her heart and chill and then came to realize her mother had sent her to him.
Reno and his King brothers are trying to find a sex trafficing ring that appears to be based out of the Castle.
Reno and Zuri are thrown together by fate and so much more. Reno finds out his father has sold out his friend because of her race. Will they be able to heal? Will the Kings find out who are trafficking women? Will Zuri find her forever love?
Great read and I can't wait to read Book 2 of this series..
She fell into the arms of someone who gave her heart and chill and then came to realize her mother had sent her to him.
Reno and his King brothers are trying to find a sex trafficing ring that appears to be based out of the Castle.
Reno and Zuri are thrown together by fate and so much more. Reno finds out his father has sold out his friend because of her race. Will they be able to heal? Will the Kings find out who are trafficking women? Will Zuri find her forever love?
Great read and I can't wait to read Book 2 of this series..
February 21, 2020
A phenomenal and fast paced read. Reno, one of the kings of the castle is the owner of a shelter that helps women, especially those who are victims of human/sex trafficking. One of those women, African Born Zuri is in America to finish school and hopes not to be forced to marry a man her abusive father.
The author really did her thing with this story. It was a great romance mixed with suspense and fast paced that kept you on the edge of your seat throughout the read. I couldn't put it down. It was also great to see characters from the authors previous book (The Husband We Share). I am truly going t make sure I keep up with the author's future works. Great job
The author really did her thing with this story. It was a great romance mixed with suspense and fast paced that kept you on the edge of your seat throughout the read. I couldn't put it down. It was also great to see characters from the authors previous book (The Husband We Share). I am truly going t make sure I keep up with the author's future works. Great job
February 24, 2020
Loved it
I am so happy for Reno and Zuri. I am loving this series so far. I didn't expect it to be this good. I am going to read book 2 right now.
I am so happy for Reno and Zuri. I am loving this series so far. I didn't expect it to be this good. I am going to read book 2 right now.
December 23, 2019
King of Chatham was my first book from the Kings of the Castles Series and I am hooked. Since it is Book 2 I do feel that I need to go back and read Kings of the Castle to find out how each of the Kings came to be but London St. Charles did a wonderful job making this book stand on its own. There was so much diversity in this book you could feel the struggle that the main characters, Mariano "Reno" and Zuri went through to be together. The start of the book gave a picture into Zuri's life back in her home country. It showed the struggle that women have to face with arranged marriages and mutilation to their bodies. It showed the strength that not only her mother demonstrated by being with her husband but also in the way that she helped to free Zuri with her friends. Returning home to say goodbye to her mother was one of the hardest sections of a book I have ever read. Knowing the danger Zuri would be putting herself in showed the love a daughter truly has for her mother.
When Reno goes home and realizes the type of man his father truly was it broke my heart. I know for so many men that their father is always their hero and you could see how this turned Reno's life around when he realized his dad was a racist and partnered with Zuri's dad to get her back home and away from his son. I loved how through it all Zuri and Reno's love conquered all.
I do hope that we get more Skylar in the future because I loved her character and how fierce she was. I also can't wait to start the next book in this series and eventually read through all of the Kings. I love how the romance kind of takes a back seat to the mystery and the crime world. Its about not only falling in love but also making sure that people go down for their wrong doings not only to the castle but to the areas in which they live. Lastly, I can not wait to read more from London St. Charles especially her story about Detective Carter from the book.
Thank you to netgalley, London St. Charles, and Macro Publishing Group for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
When Reno goes home and realizes the type of man his father truly was it broke my heart. I know for so many men that their father is always their hero and you could see how this turned Reno's life around when he realized his dad was a racist and partnered with Zuri's dad to get her back home and away from his son. I loved how through it all Zuri and Reno's love conquered all.
I do hope that we get more Skylar in the future because I loved her character and how fierce she was. I also can't wait to start the next book in this series and eventually read through all of the Kings. I love how the romance kind of takes a back seat to the mystery and the crime world. Its about not only falling in love but also making sure that people go down for their wrong doings not only to the castle but to the areas in which they live. Lastly, I can not wait to read more from London St. Charles especially her story about Detective Carter from the book.
Thank you to netgalley, London St. Charles, and Macro Publishing Group for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 3, 2020
As soon as I started reading King of Chatham by London St. Charles, my mind already cast actor Gino Anthony Pesi (OWN's "Ambitions") as Mariano 'Reno' DeLuca. Pesi seems to match everything the character Mariano is in book 2 of the Kings of the Castle series.
King of Chatham is plethora of themes - romance, drama, thriller - with a touch of Romeo and Juliet. Mariano is a tough guy with a soft, respectful heart and soul when it comes to protecting women in abusive situations. He uses his riches to establish a safe haven for these women and children, but his good works are challenged by an increase in criminal activity in the Chatham area. These activities put the women clients at risks, especially when one woman arrives.
Zuri Okusanya (who I think either Lupita or Danai would be perfect to play) is fleeing from Tanzania and an arranged marriage. She's royalty but was promised to a native man that she doesn't want and now, she is a target. She arrives at Mariano's shelter as she was instructed to do. At first sight, Mariano catches feelings, an absolute no when it comes to clients. Playing with abused women's hearts is not his forte. However, there is something about Zuri that makes Mariano want to throw rules out of the window. When Zuri reveals the same desire for the King of Chatham, all hell breaks loose as two families cross paths that ignite danger for those involved.
Is it worth the risk for love? Mariano thinks so.
King of Chatham is plethora of themes - romance, drama, thriller - with a touch of Romeo and Juliet. Mariano is a tough guy with a soft, respectful heart and soul when it comes to protecting women in abusive situations. He uses his riches to establish a safe haven for these women and children, but his good works are challenged by an increase in criminal activity in the Chatham area. These activities put the women clients at risks, especially when one woman arrives.
Zuri Okusanya (who I think either Lupita or Danai would be perfect to play) is fleeing from Tanzania and an arranged marriage. She's royalty but was promised to a native man that she doesn't want and now, she is a target. She arrives at Mariano's shelter as she was instructed to do. At first sight, Mariano catches feelings, an absolute no when it comes to clients. Playing with abused women's hearts is not his forte. However, there is something about Zuri that makes Mariano want to throw rules out of the window. When Zuri reveals the same desire for the King of Chatham, all hell breaks loose as two families cross paths that ignite danger for those involved.
Is it worth the risk for love? Mariano thinks so.
February 3, 2020
First, thank you NetGalley, London St. Charles and Naleighna Kai for a copy of this amazing book. If you love to read books that have romance, action and suspense, then The King of Chatham is the book for you. The King of Chatham is Reno, a man who helps women who are victims of violent and abusive relationships to get away from those lives and move forward to better ones. Reno has always had one rule since he opened the shelter and that is to NEVER FALL IN LOVE with a client. That all changed the day that Zuri walked into his shelter looking for help. Zuri is a young woman who has been attending college in Illinois, she went back to Tanzania for her mother’s funeral, and while there she needed to escape back to Illinois because her father, Godfrey, who tried to use her for his gain. Zuri’s mother told her that if she ever was in trouble to reach out to Reno for help. The minute these two locked eyes, the chemistry was obvious. But their story would not be an easy road. While protecting Zuri from her father, Reno had to deal with his own problems. Reno had secured apartments in safe areas where he would place some of the women in need, but someone was starting to cause trouble in these neighborhoods and he had to deal with it personally. Also, Reno had his own family problems to deal with. I highly recommend this book because you definitely go through every emotion while reading it. London St. Charles you are an amazing author.
December 5, 2019
This was a very interesting book. I love all the cultural details included about the main characters and supporting characters. The plot was definitely fresh, relevant to current national and international problems, and handled with great sensitivity. Although there seemed to be a few inconsistencies with timelines and security details, the book was very enjoyable and flowed nicely.
I'm always a fan of happy endings, so this satisfied my craving. I'm also partial to strong characters who are protective and compassionate, which is why I give this book high marks. Even those characters who found themselves in situations to be victimized weren't weak: instead, they were portrayed with courage, intelligence, and strength deserving of respect and admiration. For that alone, this author -- who is new to me -- earned my appreciation and interest in reading more of her works.
I plan on starting with The Husband We Share, whose blurb is included at the back of the book, because I can't wait to see how the deceitful man described turned out to be the trustworthy detective in The King of Chatham. My curiosity is piqued. Great job Ms. St. Charles!
I'm always a fan of happy endings, so this satisfied my craving. I'm also partial to strong characters who are protective and compassionate, which is why I give this book high marks. Even those characters who found themselves in situations to be victimized weren't weak: instead, they were portrayed with courage, intelligence, and strength deserving of respect and admiration. For that alone, this author -- who is new to me -- earned my appreciation and interest in reading more of her works.
I plan on starting with The Husband We Share, whose blurb is included at the back of the book, because I can't wait to see how the deceitful man described turned out to be the trustworthy detective in The King of Chatham. My curiosity is piqued. Great job Ms. St. Charles!
January 11, 2020
Forbidden love
When the love of your life literally turns your world upside down. That’s precisely what happens in this book. Reno runs a selfless organization that brings peace, safety and healing to women and children who have been survivors of domestic violence, exploitation or whatever other challenges put them in harms way. One woman enters his life and puts it all in jeopardy. His mission, his reputation, his family and the women he serves. Not his brothers, the Kings of the Castle though. This is a beautiful story of forbidden love. About family betrayal and love and bond of brothers not bound by blood. Grant protects not only his new woman, but continues to protect the his mission to keep women safe. This book is full of emotions across the spectrum. It is action packed and suspenseful definitely keeping me engaged throughout. I loved it!
Though this is a stand-alone, I highly recommend starting with Kings of the Castle and reading each Kings story in order. I read them all out order. They are so expertly crafted and flow so well between each of the books, it’s hard to tell each is crafted by a different author. Very well done!
When the love of your life literally turns your world upside down. That’s precisely what happens in this book. Reno runs a selfless organization that brings peace, safety and healing to women and children who have been survivors of domestic violence, exploitation or whatever other challenges put them in harms way. One woman enters his life and puts it all in jeopardy. His mission, his reputation, his family and the women he serves. Not his brothers, the Kings of the Castle though. This is a beautiful story of forbidden love. About family betrayal and love and bond of brothers not bound by blood. Grant protects not only his new woman, but continues to protect the his mission to keep women safe. This book is full of emotions across the spectrum. It is action packed and suspenseful definitely keeping me engaged throughout. I loved it!
Though this is a stand-alone, I highly recommend starting with Kings of the Castle and reading each Kings story in order. I read them all out order. They are so expertly crafted and flow so well between each of the books, it’s hard to tell each is crafted by a different author. Very well done!
January 30, 2020
I love this story. Reno is a man who stands up for women no matter who he's standing up to,including his father (who is a piece of work). The story is well written and you can really get caught reading it when you should be sleeping or cleaning. I recommend this read.
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