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DeSantis Mafia #2
Savage Prince
Aiden DeSantis is savage, cruel, and wild. The untamed new heir of the DeSantis Mafia.
He hunts my father and brother, but he finds me instead.
The girl he fixated on for years.
The one person he could never have.
And now that he’s captured me, he wants to keep me.
He might be savage, but I’m reckless.
And in a battle of hearts and sacrifices, only one of us can win.
Savage Prince is book two in the DeSantis Mafia series and the first of a duet. Aiden and Gemma's story continues in Stolen Crown. This duet is a dark romance with themes that are suited for 18+. Reader discretion is advised.
He hunts my father and brother, but he finds me instead.
The girl he fixated on for years.
The one person he could never have.
And now that he’s captured me, he wants to keep me.
He might be savage, but I’m reckless.
And in a battle of hearts and sacrifices, only one of us can win.
Savage Prince is book two in the DeSantis Mafia series and the first of a duet. Aiden and Gemma's story continues in Stolen Crown. This duet is a dark romance with themes that are suited for 18+. Reader discretion is advised.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2021
575 people are currently reading
5115 people want to read
About the author
S. Massery
43 books5,588 followersS. Massery is a dark romance author who infuses all her stories with a dash of suspense. Formerly from Massachusetts, she now resides in Southern California with her dog, Alice.
Before adventuring into the world of writing, she went to college in Boston and held a wide variety of jobs—including working on a dude ranch in Wyoming (a personal highlight). She has a love affair with coffee and chocolate. When S. Massery isn’t writing, she can be found devouring books, playing outside with her dog, or trying to make people smile.
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Before adventuring into the world of writing, she went to college in Boston and held a wide variety of jobs—including working on a dude ranch in Wyoming (a personal highlight). She has a love affair with coffee and chocolate. When S. Massery isn’t writing, she can be found devouring books, playing outside with her dog, or trying to make people smile.
• Facebook Group —> http://facebook.com/groups/smasserysquad
• Facebook —> http://facebook.com/authorsmassery
• Instagram —> http://instagram.com/authorsmassery
• Newsletter —> http://smassery.com/newsletter
• Tiktok —> http://tiktok.com/@smassery
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
September 21, 2021
I love a good f*cked up dark romance. Exhibit A:
”We’re not supposed to be happy.”
“Glad that’s decided.” He hoists me up on the counter and plunges two fingers inside me. “Let’s be miserable together, then.”
I literally read this based on S Massery’s TikTok, saying that he knifes out her implant during the seggsy times, only to find out that doesn’t even happen until the next book! The NEXT book! As in the one that isn’t out yet!
Send help!
”We’re not supposed to be happy.”
“Glad that’s decided.” He hoists me up on the counter and plunges two fingers inside me. “Let’s be miserable together, then.”
I literally read this based on S Massery’s TikTok, saying that he knifes out her implant during the seggsy times, only to find out that doesn’t even happen until the next book! The NEXT book! As in the one that isn’t out yet!
Send help!
August 19, 2021
I enjoy S. Massery's work and so it was no surprise that I liked this story overall. I am not a big fan of mafia stories but I was glad that the mafia details took a background to the interactions between the MCs. The mafia lifestyle drove the story but didn't overshadow the relationship between Aidan and Gemma. This is book 2 of the series and although I kept up, I feel that I am missing background details and certain nuances that could have helped me understand the driving factor better.
Gemma - beautiful, blond Mafia princess. She's a West and the story begins with her "surrendering" herself to the H. Gemma admits that she had a sheltered life - she was kept out of the mafia dealings. She didn't seem to have any relationships prior to Aidan. There are a couple of references to the MCs meeting when they were 16 when they both seemed to have made an impression on each other. I think Aidan rescued her at 16, but I don't know what happened...perhaps it was detailed in the first book of this series which I haven't yet read. Once Gemma is captured, she willingly goes with Aiden to his family's "tower" building and pretty much submits to her life there. Although she does snoop when she was "bored" and finds a burner phone, Gemma doesn't attempt to escape because she made a plan with her father, Lawrence, to sacrifice herself in order to save her brother who the DeSantis suspect of having killed Aiden's brother, Wilder. Therefore Gemma settles into a pretty boring life of a captive in Aiden's apartment. She is sometimes guarded by Aiden's cousin. Slowly, the forced proximity allows for Gemma and Aiden to connect and sparks fly. Their chemistry is hawt and it's what kept me invested in the story. Aside from that, Gemma seems pretty cold-blooded. Although she gets upset, she recovers fairly quickly after witnessing the deaths of close family members. She compartmentalizes like a pro to the point of being emotionally unavailable, just as she is with Aiden.
Aiden - 2nd son of the Desanti's leader, Jameson. Aiden is set to take over the Desanti mob after the murder of his older brother, Wilder. His younger half-brother Luca has pretty much emancipated himself from the mafia life. Aiden has been enamoured with Gemma since their meeting at 16 even though he doesn't admit it aloud. Once she is captured, Aiden is very protective and possessive of Gemma. He saves her from his father by claiming her and announcing they're getting married, without her consent. Somehow Gemma resigns herself to this fact without a fight and their relationship progresses. Along the way Aiden admits he loves Gemma and shows her by protecting her a number of times. Gemma on the other hand does nothing to ingrate herself to Aiden other than submit to their physical desires.
Plot thickens - Jameson forces Gemma to choose between Aiden and her father's life at gunpoint. For some bizarre backhanded reason, Gemma chooses Aiden and Jameson shoots Lawrence in cold blood in front of them all. Jameson also tells the MCs that he doesn't believe they'll get married and will be moving up the wedding date just in case. Gemma spies on Jameson and Aiden in their office and retrieves some papers and incriminating evidence. On the date of the wedding, Gemma gets a few presents and a letter from Aiden explaining that he planned to save Gemma with her father's blessing all along. He explains that Lawrence wanted Gemma to be safe and they plotted together. Then, Gemma's friend Amelie shows up and there are some references to the past that might have been detailed in book 1. The wedding begins, everything proceeds as planned until it doesn't. Gemma is kidnapped by masked men, presumed to be her brother Colin's plan. Aiden is shot and falls down. Once Gemma reaches her family home, Colin reveals to her that he's not the leader of the family and that their father has made Gemma the leader. Confusing because this girl has no known experience with mafia business. Gemma is told that she was rescued because they figured that's what she'd want - giving no clue as to who's plan it was and why. Gemma reveals to the Wests that she's found out that Wilder is alive and this whole fiasco was a setup by the Desantis in order to continue waging a war on the Wests. She also acknowledges that Aiden was in on this plot and she is presumably angry with him for tricking her and for the needless bloodshed. And thus ends the cliffhanger.
Gemma - beautiful, blond Mafia princess. She's a West and the story begins with her "surrendering" herself to the H. Gemma admits that she had a sheltered life - she was kept out of the mafia dealings. She didn't seem to have any relationships prior to Aidan. There are a couple of references to the MCs meeting when they were 16 when they both seemed to have made an impression on each other. I think Aidan rescued her at 16, but I don't know what happened...perhaps it was detailed in the first book of this series which I haven't yet read. Once Gemma is captured, she willingly goes with Aiden to his family's "tower" building and pretty much submits to her life there. Although she does snoop when she was "bored" and finds a burner phone, Gemma doesn't attempt to escape because she made a plan with her father, Lawrence, to sacrifice herself in order to save her brother who the DeSantis suspect of having killed Aiden's brother, Wilder. Therefore Gemma settles into a pretty boring life of a captive in Aiden's apartment. She is sometimes guarded by Aiden's cousin. Slowly, the forced proximity allows for Gemma and Aiden to connect and sparks fly. Their chemistry is hawt and it's what kept me invested in the story. Aside from that, Gemma seems pretty cold-blooded. Although she gets upset, she recovers fairly quickly after witnessing the deaths of close family members. She compartmentalizes like a pro to the point of being emotionally unavailable, just as she is with Aiden.
Aiden - 2nd son of the Desanti's leader, Jameson. Aiden is set to take over the Desanti mob after the murder of his older brother, Wilder. His younger half-brother Luca has pretty much emancipated himself from the mafia life. Aiden has been enamoured with Gemma since their meeting at 16 even though he doesn't admit it aloud. Once she is captured, Aiden is very protective and possessive of Gemma. He saves her from his father by claiming her and announcing they're getting married, without her consent. Somehow Gemma resigns herself to this fact without a fight and their relationship progresses. Along the way Aiden admits he loves Gemma and shows her by protecting her a number of times. Gemma on the other hand does nothing to ingrate herself to Aiden other than submit to their physical desires.
Plot thickens - Jameson forces Gemma to choose between Aiden and her father's life at gunpoint. For some bizarre backhanded reason, Gemma chooses Aiden and Jameson shoots Lawrence in cold blood in front of them all. Jameson also tells the MCs that he doesn't believe they'll get married and will be moving up the wedding date just in case. Gemma spies on Jameson and Aiden in their office and retrieves some papers and incriminating evidence. On the date of the wedding, Gemma gets a few presents and a letter from Aiden explaining that he planned to save Gemma with her father's blessing all along. He explains that Lawrence wanted Gemma to be safe and they plotted together. Then, Gemma's friend Amelie shows up and there are some references to the past that might have been detailed in book 1. The wedding begins, everything proceeds as planned until it doesn't. Gemma is kidnapped by masked men, presumed to be her brother Colin's plan. Aiden is shot and falls down. Once Gemma reaches her family home, Colin reveals to her that he's not the leader of the family and that their father has made Gemma the leader. Confusing because this girl has no known experience with mafia business. Gemma is told that she was rescued because they figured that's what she'd want - giving no clue as to who's plan it was and why. Gemma reveals to the Wests that she's found out that Wilder is alive and this whole fiasco was a setup by the Desantis in order to continue waging a war on the Wests. She also acknowledges that Aiden was in on this plot and she is presumably angry with him for tricking her and for the needless bloodshed. And thus ends the cliffhanger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2021
When he gets the forbidden girl he is never going to let her go, regardless of the consequences.
Gemma and Aiden's story is full of so much tension and angst as they both know what is at stake. Thrown together by the fuel of their families rivalry they could tear each other apart or lift each other up. Either way, there is pain and suffering along the way both for them but also their families. Can they finally be the ones to stop the war?
Gemma and Aiden's story is full of so much tension and angst as they both know what is at stake. Thrown together by the fuel of their families rivalry they could tear each other apart or lift each other up. Either way, there is pain and suffering along the way both for them but also their families. Can they finally be the ones to stop the war?
September 29, 2021
So, I know people always say never judge a book by it's cover. However, I have to start this review by talking about this cover. I think we all need to stop and appreciate the fact that with this cover S. Massery gave us a MAN.... I mean wow. For me that model give the character of Aiden a lot to live up to.
S. Massery did not disappoint with the first book of this duet. We had met both Aiden and Gemma a little bit in the first book of the series, Ruthless Saint. They are both so much more than I even anticipated. Gemma may seem like a sweet, innocent mafia princess, but she can play hard and dirty with the big boys. She has some balls on her. Aiden initially seems like an alpha a**hole, and well, to be honest his is. He also has some pretty intense feelings driving him to be so possessive.
There were scenes in this book that made me wish I could reach in and smack Aiden. Then there were others where he made me swoon. I totally love the times he went all caveman on Gemma. There were several scenes in this book where I was so proud of Gemma I literally screamed "Go Gemma" out loud, thankfully I was a lone at work when that happened.
This book is a total trip. There were some extremely unexpected surprises towards the end. I am going to be anxiously awaiting the second book in the duet see how this ends.
S. Massery did not disappoint with the first book of this duet. We had met both Aiden and Gemma a little bit in the first book of the series, Ruthless Saint. They are both so much more than I even anticipated. Gemma may seem like a sweet, innocent mafia princess, but she can play hard and dirty with the big boys. She has some balls on her. Aiden initially seems like an alpha a**hole, and well, to be honest his is. He also has some pretty intense feelings driving him to be so possessive.
There were scenes in this book that made me wish I could reach in and smack Aiden. Then there were others where he made me swoon. I totally love the times he went all caveman on Gemma. There were several scenes in this book where I was so proud of Gemma I literally screamed "Go Gemma" out loud, thankfully I was a lone at work when that happened.
This book is a total trip. There were some extremely unexpected surprises towards the end. I am going to be anxiously awaiting the second book in the duet see how this ends.
July 1, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
Savage Prince by S. Massery is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
Savage Prince by S. Massery is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
June 18, 2021
*ARC provided from an honest review*
Savage Prince is the second book of the DeSantis Mafia series and it was a rollercoaster of emotions!!
This book is the first part of Gemma and Aiden’s story who were briefly introduced in the previous book but we now get their pov. I was literally not expecting the things that happened in this book. Gemma and Aiden’s story is raw and filled with so much fierceness but also secrets that leave them wondering what the next step could be between them. I really enjoyed the way the author wrote their moments. Whether it was emotional moments or desirable ones between them, there was always strong tension.
The characters are very interesting and I enjoyed reading both point of views. Gemma has so many characteristics that I love and her character was written really well. I love the way she always remained strong, even when she was going through so much. Aiden’s character was intriguing to me. His development throughout the story was something I genuinely liked. He has his ruthless moments but the motivation behind it was understandable. Still even with all that, he always protected Gemma.
This book does end in a cliffhanger that left me shocked… I was not expecting that! I honestly can’t wait for the next part of Gemma and Aiden’s story. There’s still more to develop, relationship and character wise.
Savage Prince is the second book of the DeSantis Mafia series and it was a rollercoaster of emotions!!
This book is the first part of Gemma and Aiden’s story who were briefly introduced in the previous book but we now get their pov. I was literally not expecting the things that happened in this book. Gemma and Aiden’s story is raw and filled with so much fierceness but also secrets that leave them wondering what the next step could be between them. I really enjoyed the way the author wrote their moments. Whether it was emotional moments or desirable ones between them, there was always strong tension.
The characters are very interesting and I enjoyed reading both point of views. Gemma has so many characteristics that I love and her character was written really well. I love the way she always remained strong, even when she was going through so much. Aiden’s character was intriguing to me. His development throughout the story was something I genuinely liked. He has his ruthless moments but the motivation behind it was understandable. Still even with all that, he always protected Gemma.
This book does end in a cliffhanger that left me shocked… I was not expecting that! I honestly can’t wait for the next part of Gemma and Aiden’s story. There’s still more to develop, relationship and character wise.
September 19, 2021
Audio Review:
Savage Prince (DeSantis Mafia, Book 2) is absolutely fabulous. I absolutely love Aiden and Gemma's love. I absolutely love this series and this authors writing style. Intricately entwined unexpected twists, soaked with suspense and dripping with action. Characters are compelling and likeable. From page one till the very end I couldn't stop listening.
This ends in a bombshell cliffhanger and I cannot wait for Stolen Crown. Mafia romance is one of my favorites and thus series is one of my favorites.
Stephanie Rose, Troy Duran dual narration was perfect. I love Stephanie's inflection and Yroy Duran I could listen to all day. His deep baritone is intoxicating. Stephanie's sweet and smooth tone is easy listening.
Savage Prince (DeSantis Mafia, Book 2) is absolutely fabulous. I absolutely love Aiden and Gemma's love. I absolutely love this series and this authors writing style. Intricately entwined unexpected twists, soaked with suspense and dripping with action. Characters are compelling and likeable. From page one till the very end I couldn't stop listening.
This ends in a bombshell cliffhanger and I cannot wait for Stolen Crown. Mafia romance is one of my favorites and thus series is one of my favorites.
Stephanie Rose, Troy Duran dual narration was perfect. I love Stephanie's inflection and Yroy Duran I could listen to all day. His deep baritone is intoxicating. Stephanie's sweet and smooth tone is easy listening.
September 9, 2021
This is my first book by S Massery & I’m definitely in the minority when it comes to how much I liked it, I feel like I was reading a different book when it comes to all the 4/5 star reviews.
The story overall held my attention & I found myself turning the pages just to see how things would turn out between Aiden & Gemma.
I will be completely honest with you I HATED Aiden for a good majority of the book, there was nothing sweet or endearing about him. He was an arsehole, who was cruel & cold. I did find myself warming to him a little towards the end, but then he went & did something really cruel to Gemma as a warning/punishment & it set him all the way back.
I really liked Gemma she saved the story for me, I love that she was strong & had a backbone & that she stood up for herself, I did want to shake her a few times for how easily she forgave Aiden at times.
I will read the second book purely to see if the author manages to redeem Aiden, and how everything plays out. I hope that Gemma doesn’t just roll over & forgive him.
The story overall held my attention & I found myself turning the pages just to see how things would turn out between Aiden & Gemma.
I will be completely honest with you I HATED Aiden for a good majority of the book, there was nothing sweet or endearing about him. He was an arsehole, who was cruel & cold. I did find myself warming to him a little towards the end, but then he went & did something really cruel to Gemma as a warning/punishment & it set him all the way back.
I really liked Gemma she saved the story for me, I love that she was strong & had a backbone & that she stood up for herself, I did want to shake her a few times for how easily she forgave Aiden at times.
I will read the second book purely to see if the author manages to redeem Aiden, and how everything plays out. I hope that Gemma doesn’t just roll over & forgive him.
September 27, 2025
3.75
This was fun! I love a good mafia romance. I do have to say the burn wasn’t slow enough, like she feel in love way to quick for me. Also the way she forgives him so fast after a certain thing was crazy. I don’t know if I’m going to continue, I enjoyed this, but I didn’t love it and I’ll be fine if I don’t continue. I think if you like mafia romances you’ll like this especially if you like the male love interest being obsessed with the female main character.
This was fun! I love a good mafia romance. I do have to say the burn wasn’t slow enough, like she feel in love way to quick for me. Also the way she forgives him so fast after a certain thing was crazy. I don’t know if I’m going to continue, I enjoyed this, but I didn’t love it and I’ll be fine if I don’t continue. I think if you like mafia romances you’ll like this especially if you like the male love interest being obsessed with the female main character.
June 30, 2021
4/4.5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this star crossed lovers mafia romance from S Massery. Aiden and Gemma were such an intriguing couple as they both have tons of family drama (their families are pretty much at war) that gets in the way of their romance. I really loved the slow burn build up of their romance and holy heck did they have a crazy amount of chemistry. And Aiden's protectiveness had me swooning in spite of his violent tendencies. And Gemma definitely grew on me throughout the book as she started to come into her own as a leader with a backbone. This book also had a ton of twists and turns as there was new information coming at us from all different directions. I really hated Jameson Wilder and his crazy antics. The last 25% was action packed and that cliffy just left me on the edge of my seat! Can't wait for the next book!
I thoroughly enjoyed this star crossed lovers mafia romance from S Massery. Aiden and Gemma were such an intriguing couple as they both have tons of family drama (their families are pretty much at war) that gets in the way of their romance. I really loved the slow burn build up of their romance and holy heck did they have a crazy amount of chemistry. And Aiden's protectiveness had me swooning in spite of his violent tendencies. And Gemma definitely grew on me throughout the book as she started to come into her own as a leader with a backbone. This book also had a ton of twists and turns as there was new information coming at us from all different directions. I really hated Jameson Wilder and his crazy antics. The last 25% was action packed and that cliffy just left me on the edge of my seat! Can't wait for the next book!
June 30, 2021
This series keeps getting better!
I thoroughly enjoyed Amelie and Luca’s story in Ruthless Saint. Aiden and Gemma’s story in Savage Prince was even better! 🖤
The plot took so many twists and turns and kept me guessing, and surprised, until the very end. Aiden is a fierce MC and so much more than meets the eye. Every choice he makes, even if it seems cruel, is done to protect Gemma, even when she can’t see it.
The book does end on a cliffhanger, and I really need Stolen Crown now. Or even tomorrow! I’m excited to see what happens next with these two 🔥🔥, and how their story will play out. Oh, and crossing my fingers that Jameson meets an untimely, painful end.
I thoroughly enjoyed Amelie and Luca’s story in Ruthless Saint. Aiden and Gemma’s story in Savage Prince was even better! 🖤
The plot took so many twists and turns and kept me guessing, and surprised, until the very end. Aiden is a fierce MC and so much more than meets the eye. Every choice he makes, even if it seems cruel, is done to protect Gemma, even when she can’t see it.
The book does end on a cliffhanger, and I really need Stolen Crown now. Or even tomorrow! I’m excited to see what happens next with these two 🔥🔥, and how their story will play out. Oh, and crossing my fingers that Jameson meets an untimely, painful end.
October 7, 2021
4.3 stars
I love it when an author takes me on a journey. This author did that and then some. Mafia romance is my jam.especially, when done correctly. This author did it well. Loved the tension between the characters and the storyline.
There were a few moments, especially towards the end, that were a little confusing but I'm hoping that will wash out in the conclusion to this duet.
I love it when an author takes me on a journey. This author did that and then some. Mafia romance is my jam.especially, when done correctly. This author did it well. Loved the tension between the characters and the storyline.
There were a few moments, especially towards the end, that were a little confusing but I'm hoping that will wash out in the conclusion to this duet.
January 23, 2022
3.8 stars - WOW color me SHOCKED at the ending
This book had everything I wanted from a mafia romance and more 😍
This book had everything I wanted from a mafia romance and more 😍
December 26, 2025
lembro de nada então n foi memorável
July 6, 2021
I am loving the DeSantis family. Aiden is wanting revenge on his brother death and kidnapped Gemma West. The things this two go through for family. I can't wait for more from S. Massery
Read
September 17, 2021DNF’d at 27%.
Plot seemed sloppy, it didn’t really make sense & the characters actions just seemed to be all over the place.
What was the point of the scene when Aiden brings Gemma to the apartment & his dad shows up and makes him ‘prove’ that he was going to marry Gemma? Like how does kissing her & feeling her up in front of his dad prove anything? I think a lot of people in Gemma’s position would have played along, it really didn’t prove anything & just seemed like a weak excuse to have that short dark ‘sexy’ scene.
Honestly doing that in front of his father just made the scene very weird & not all that sexy.
The entire premise of Gemma staying behind to get herself caught seemed strange & didn’t make much sense. Obviously I stopped reading fairly early on so that plan may make more sense later but it just seemed incredibly flimsy. Surely they could have come up with something else? It really just seemed like a lazy & convenient way to have Aiden take her captive.
And having Gemma run back into a burning house seemed pretty ridiculous. I get that it held a lot of memories but what was the point? Aiden said it was brave but it was just a stupid thing to do, she wasn’t thinking at all & what did she honestly expect to be able to do with a single fire extinguisher against an entire house fire? Not to mention she gets burnt enough that the Dr is concerned but there’s never any mention that she never feels it & still runs around & wrestles against Aiden without it being mentioned or seeming to bother her in any way.
It’s supposed to be a mafia book but the characters act like petulant children which is really not all that convincing or intimidating. Aiden is supposed to be this super tough mafia heir & Gemma is supposed to be scared of him (at least I think she’s supposed to be scared of him? It really isn’t clear but with the way she acts towards him certainly didn’t make me scared or concerned about him or what he was supposedly capable of) but she throws tantrums so frequently (not full on tantrums but I can’t think of any other way to describe her behaviour? Maybe more like pouting?) which really doesn’t support the ‘Aiden is so scary’ or the ‘Gemma is in danger from him’ vibe that one would expect from a dark mafia romance.
Honestly the last straw for me was the fact that after getting in trouble for leaving the apartment with Cat (that seemed like a blatantly manufactured plot point too, why couldn’t Cat just bring up the clothes she wanted to give Gemma?) the first thing she does afterwards is go straight back to Cat’s apartment because she isn’t going to let Aiden control her life (news flash Gemma, you’re his hostage, that’s kinda the point) & Cat - knowing she has other people over who will want to hurt/kill Gemma for being a West, and that Aiden doesn’t want her out of his apartment - is invite Gemma in?
You can’t have a character constantly thumbing their nose at the big bad & expect readers to take the big bad seriously.
The start of a book is supposed to catch a readers attention & make them want to keep reading, but if the entire premise of a book is built on a characters flimsy choices all it succeeds in doing is undermining everything else that happens later & makes me constantly wonder what the entire point was while I read.
I know it might seem weird to say a plot point felt manufactured considering all plots are manufactured, but readers need to believe the characters are acting that way for a reason. But most of what I read in this book really seemed like the only point to the way the characters acted & the decisions they made was the author had an idea for particular scenes but couldn’t figure out how to get the characters to that point in a way that would make sense or be believable.
If the book relies on characters making barely plausible/blatant stupid decisions to move the plot along, it’s just lazy writing & really doesnt make for an enjoyable book.
Plot seemed sloppy, it didn’t really make sense & the characters actions just seemed to be all over the place.
What was the point of the scene when Aiden brings Gemma to the apartment & his dad shows up and makes him ‘prove’ that he was going to marry Gemma? Like how does kissing her & feeling her up in front of his dad prove anything? I think a lot of people in Gemma’s position would have played along, it really didn’t prove anything & just seemed like a weak excuse to have that short dark ‘sexy’ scene.
Honestly doing that in front of his father just made the scene very weird & not all that sexy.
The entire premise of Gemma staying behind to get herself caught seemed strange & didn’t make much sense. Obviously I stopped reading fairly early on so that plan may make more sense later but it just seemed incredibly flimsy. Surely they could have come up with something else? It really just seemed like a lazy & convenient way to have Aiden take her captive.
And having Gemma run back into a burning house seemed pretty ridiculous. I get that it held a lot of memories but what was the point? Aiden said it was brave but it was just a stupid thing to do, she wasn’t thinking at all & what did she honestly expect to be able to do with a single fire extinguisher against an entire house fire? Not to mention she gets burnt enough that the Dr is concerned but there’s never any mention that she never feels it & still runs around & wrestles against Aiden without it being mentioned or seeming to bother her in any way.
It’s supposed to be a mafia book but the characters act like petulant children which is really not all that convincing or intimidating. Aiden is supposed to be this super tough mafia heir & Gemma is supposed to be scared of him (at least I think she’s supposed to be scared of him? It really isn’t clear but with the way she acts towards him certainly didn’t make me scared or concerned about him or what he was supposedly capable of) but she throws tantrums so frequently (not full on tantrums but I can’t think of any other way to describe her behaviour? Maybe more like pouting?) which really doesn’t support the ‘Aiden is so scary’ or the ‘Gemma is in danger from him’ vibe that one would expect from a dark mafia romance.
Honestly the last straw for me was the fact that after getting in trouble for leaving the apartment with Cat (that seemed like a blatantly manufactured plot point too, why couldn’t Cat just bring up the clothes she wanted to give Gemma?) the first thing she does afterwards is go straight back to Cat’s apartment because she isn’t going to let Aiden control her life (news flash Gemma, you’re his hostage, that’s kinda the point) & Cat - knowing she has other people over who will want to hurt/kill Gemma for being a West, and that Aiden doesn’t want her out of his apartment - is invite Gemma in?
You can’t have a character constantly thumbing their nose at the big bad & expect readers to take the big bad seriously.
The start of a book is supposed to catch a readers attention & make them want to keep reading, but if the entire premise of a book is built on a characters flimsy choices all it succeeds in doing is undermining everything else that happens later & makes me constantly wonder what the entire point was while I read.
I know it might seem weird to say a plot point felt manufactured considering all plots are manufactured, but readers need to believe the characters are acting that way for a reason. But most of what I read in this book really seemed like the only point to the way the characters acted & the decisions they made was the author had an idea for particular scenes but couldn’t figure out how to get the characters to that point in a way that would make sense or be believable.
If the book relies on characters making barely plausible/blatant stupid decisions to move the plot along, it’s just lazy writing & really doesnt make for an enjoyable book.
August 1, 2024
TITLE: SAVAGE PRINCE
More like Savage Princess
THE STORY AS A WHOLE
I knew I was going to love this book, and I DID.
The story line was far more intriguing than the previous book, RUTHLESS SAINT and things were happening and things were at stake.
THE WRITING was pretty good, but I wish Massery would have a little more of descriptions in her story. Otherwise, an easy read with no grammar mistakes.
THE PACING of the book was perfection. Especially as we could see them build a relationship, finding comfort in each other and learn different sides of each other. I especially love that the following book will NOT involve her being cooped up in the apartment because then there wouldn’t be ANY objection that her love for him. And that her love was certainly NOT a result of Stockholm syndrome.
GEMMA aka PRINCESS
I really like her. She has proven to be SO MUCH stronger than what anyone—minus Aiden—has probably made her think.
And honestly it’s so amazing how she has handled tragedy after tragedy in her life. Like I could probably ignore Kai dying but HER FATHER dying. Oof. That was harsh! And sadly and romantically enough, her reaction to Aiden getting shot was so much MORE hysterical than her father dying. Not to mention she chose Aiden despite knowing the fact that with Aiden there might be SOME mercy but there wouldn’t be any for her father. And yet, she chose Aiden. Like that decision was a bit stupid, my dear. Sorry pops though, your little girl is madly in love. Even if she doesn’t admit it.
AIDEN
He’s certainly tied with Theo in my number 1 male leads because HOW?! how can he be so perfect yet cruel at the SAME time?!
I love how he literally placed the gun on the table pointing his father and just didn’t take crap from him when it came to Gemma. And I understand why he couldn’t just take Gemma and her father’s side.
As much as the plot twist of Wilder being alive was shocking, but the fact that Gemma’ dad and Aiden plotted together for Gemma’s sake, for her safety? Damn. That’s just adorable.
Like sorry pops, I hated you a tad bit before.
You know what I love about Aiden, it’s how he doesn’t have this crazy macho attitude, he’s gentle to her when she needs it and rough when it’s required. I still don’t condone with the whole prostitutes thing he did. For a moment my heart dropped to my stomach thinking that he was going to cheat on her infront of her. Although, he did reduce the blow by how he promised the ladies that the whole prostitution thing will end once he was in charge. Like I love this about him!
AIDEN x GEMMA
I love how they compliment each other and cheer each other on—mainly Aiden cheering Gemma on.
I especially love this about Aiden, how he doesn’t allow her to close in on herself and block him out, how they end up solving their misunderstandings (well, sometimes).
And as much as I want to know the age difference because Aiden was in love with her since she was 16, like I just want to get this off my conscious that he wasn’t just pinning and stalking after a minor when he was a 20+ year old oldie.
When I’m glad that the author was able to show love between them, from subtle touches to their thoughts, and was still able to show how she DIDN'T and COULDN'T come to trust him. And him her. Because it shows that yes, they love each other, but they are also not nearly as blinded by it that they abandon their moral compass, and forget to use their own judgment.
I do feel like it was a bit over-exaggerated with Gemma suddenly and completely turning against him. But I guess this needed to happen for the next story to have some sort of angst.
I absolutely CANNOT wait for her to see it. Because this man is obsessed. I literally choked when I read this.
Aiden when mad at Gemma:
Gemma when made at Aiden:
Do I find this utterly and outrageously cute and romantic. Yes. Yes I do.
OTHER
Can I just say that I PREDICTED IT! I wrote in my RUTHLESS SAINT review that I think that Wilder might NOT be dead and that him dying in the ambulance was just too convenient. But by the end of the book, I was convinced, that he really was dead or he would’ve already made an appearance. But what do you know? He is BLOODY STILL ALIVE
Jameson. Oof. I very badly judged him. I thought he might be a chill dad, and even up until the first half of the book, I was lead to believe that the death of his heir was making him a bit unhinged. But lo behold, he is a complete and utter fool. Not only is he so disgusting and literally makes my skin crawl whenever he shows up on page, but he is also pretty obnoxious for literally trying to wipe out the West family.
Like what even was this? Like ewwww. Like wasn’t Wilder sleeping with the councilwoman? And saying all that infront of your son. Double ewww!
Also are we just going to ignore how his father walked in on them not once but like thrice.
MY FAV SCENES
1. All the bath scenes because of the raw emotions they shared!!
2. The office scene (minus Jameson ruining it)
3. Aiden getting shot and Gemma crying hysterically
More like Savage Princess
THE STORY AS A WHOLE
I knew I was going to love this book, and I DID.
The story line was far more intriguing than the previous book, RUTHLESS SAINT and things were happening and things were at stake.
THE WRITING was pretty good, but I wish Massery would have a little more of descriptions in her story. Otherwise, an easy read with no grammar mistakes.
THE PACING of the book was perfection. Especially as we could see them build a relationship, finding comfort in each other and learn different sides of each other. I especially love that the following book will NOT involve her being cooped up in the apartment because then there wouldn’t be ANY objection that her love for him. And that her love was certainly NOT a result of Stockholm syndrome.
GEMMA aka PRINCESS
“Gemma West, the princess with daddy issues. How’s he looking, these days? A little ashen?”
She shoves off the wall and punches him in the throat. He didn’t see that one coming, I’d bet. He chokes, gargling, and she glares at him while returning to her position. Her eyes flick to mine, and she offers me a glare, as well.
I can interpret it to mean, You said not to talk, and I didn’t.
I smirk.
“You’re off to a good start,” I tell Rubert. “Pissing off a West... and a
DeSantis. How’s that working for you?”
I really like her. She has proven to be SO MUCH stronger than what anyone—minus Aiden—has probably made her think.
And honestly it’s so amazing how she has handled tragedy after tragedy in her life. Like I could probably ignore Kai dying but HER FATHER dying. Oof. That was harsh! And sadly and romantically enough, her reaction to Aiden getting shot was so much MORE hysterical than her father dying. Not to mention she chose Aiden despite knowing the fact that with Aiden there might be SOME mercy but there wouldn’t be any for her father. And yet, she chose Aiden. Like that decision was a bit stupid, my dear. Sorry pops though, your little girl is madly in love. Even if she doesn’t admit it.
AIDEN
He’s certainly tied with Theo in my number 1 male leads because HOW?! how can he be so perfect yet cruel at the SAME time?!
Dad has had far too long to control his reactions, but Aiden... Aiden’s never had me.
I love how he literally placed the gun on the table pointing his father and just didn’t take crap from him when it came to Gemma. And I understand why he couldn’t just take Gemma and her father’s side.
There’s pain in her eyes, and I’ve never wanted to be a DeSantis less than I do right now.
As much as the plot twist of Wilder being alive was shocking, but the fact that Gemma’ dad and Aiden plotted together for Gemma’s sake, for her safety? Damn. That’s just adorable.
I sniffle. Dad... Dad never conspired with me to save the family—he conspired with Aiden freaking DeSantis to save me.
Like sorry pops, I hated you a tad bit before.
“It’s okay to cry.” He sets one mug in front of me, then sits beside me. He leans his back against the window. “I used to cry. Right after Mom left. In the shower, where my brothers couldn’t hear me.”
You know what I love about Aiden, it’s how he doesn’t have this crazy macho attitude, he’s gentle to her when she needs it and rough when it’s required. I still don’t condone with the whole prostitutes thing he did. For a moment my heart dropped to my stomach thinking that he was going to cheat on her infront of her. Although, he did reduce the blow by how he promised the ladies that the whole prostitution thing will end once he was in charge. Like I love this about him!
AIDEN x GEMMA
Love will destroy us both, but it’s already done. There’s a Gemma-sized hole in my chest.
I love how they compliment each other and cheer each other on—mainly Aiden cheering Gemma on.
“I want to be alone,” I say woodenly.
“No.” He faces the television and reaches for the remote. “You want to sulk? Do it here.”
I especially love this about Aiden, how he doesn’t allow her to close in on herself and block him out, how they end up solving their misunderstandings (well, sometimes).
“Even when you infuriate me, I can’t resist you,” he murmurs.
And as much as I want to know the age difference because Aiden was in love with her since she was 16, like I just want to get this off my conscious that he wasn’t just pinning and stalking after a minor when he was a 20+ year old oldie.
“Gem first,” Aiden demands.
“Did you black out?” the doctor asks him.
“Gemma first.” Aiden slams his hand on the table.
When I’m glad that the author was able to show love between them, from subtle touches to their thoughts, and was still able to show how she DIDN'T and COULDN'T come to trust him. And him her. Because it shows that yes, they love each other, but they are also not nearly as blinded by it that they abandon their moral compass, and forget to use their own judgment.
I do feel like it was a bit over-exaggerated with Gemma suddenly and completely turning against him. But I guess this needed to happen for the next story to have some sort of angst.
Above the fireplace hangs a painting I commissioned of Gemma—it’s abstract but undeniably her.
I absolutely CANNOT wait for her to see it. Because this man is obsessed. I literally choked when I read this.
Aiden when mad at Gemma:
Gemma is going to pay for this—because she might need more time to
do whatever the hell she’s doing, and I don’t want her to face my father’s wrath. Just mine.
Gemma when made at Aiden:
If the bastard died trying to save me from a non-threat, I’m going to bring him back to life to shoot him myself. Honestly, men and their egos.
Do I find this utterly and outrageously cute and romantic. Yes. Yes I do.
OTHER
But Wilder is alive and well, and I have proof.”
Can I just say that I PREDICTED IT! I wrote in my RUTHLESS SAINT review that I think that Wilder might NOT be dead and that him dying in the ambulance was just too convenient. But by the end of the book, I was convinced, that he really was dead or he would’ve already made an appearance. But what do you know? He is BLOODY STILL ALIVE
Jameson. Oof. I very badly judged him. I thought he might be a chill dad, and even up until the first half of the book, I was lead to believe that the death of his heir was making him a bit unhinged. But lo behold, he is a complete and utter fool. Not only is he so disgusting and literally makes my skin crawl whenever he shows up on page, but he is also pretty obnoxious for literally trying to wipe out the West family.
Your job is hard? I’ll show you what’s hard, sweetheart.
Like what even was this? Like ewwww. Like wasn’t Wilder sleeping with the councilwoman? And saying all that infront of your son. Double ewww!
We stay locked in our stare-off until his office door opens. Aiden’s lips
press together. Without releasing me, he pulls his gun and points it at the door.
“Leave,” he orders.
“Charming,” Jameson drawls.
Also are we just going to ignore how his father walked in on them not once but like thrice.
“Isn’t it bad luck to see the bride before the wedding?” someone drawls.
MY FAV SCENES
1. All the bath scenes because of the raw emotions they shared!!
2. The office scene (minus Jameson ruining it)
3. Aiden getting shot and Gemma crying hysterically
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2023
The mother of all cliffhangers!
Aiden DeSantis isn't as sweet as his half-brother Luca, whom we met last book. Aiden's a whole lot more 'mafia', and so was this book. When Gemma West gives herself to the DeSantis family, it's with the intention of preventing a war, and saving her younger brother's life.
He's mean, rough. And a liar?
She's a fighter, loyal. And a pawn?
Once again I really liked these characters. And I don't recommend reading this unless you have the next book ready to go! Because that ending will have you dying to find out what's going to happen.
Aiden DeSantis isn't as sweet as his half-brother Luca, whom we met last book. Aiden's a whole lot more 'mafia', and so was this book. When Gemma West gives herself to the DeSantis family, it's with the intention of preventing a war, and saving her younger brother's life.
He's mean, rough. And a liar?
She's a fighter, loyal. And a pawn?
Once again I really liked these characters. And I don't recommend reading this unless you have the next book ready to go! Because that ending will have you dying to find out what's going to happen.
April 24, 2022
I don’t get the hype. The writing is subpar, there is a lack of substantial plot, too many plotholes, I won’t even mention the characters and I have definitely read much darker, much better mafia romances than this. Here’s a reminder to myself to not buy into overhyped bookstagram recommendations.
I read this whole book just to try to decipher why this has an overall 4 rating.
I read this whole book just to try to decipher why this has an overall 4 rating.
July 2, 2021
Gemma West's family has been in the middle of a battle with the DeSantis family as long as she can remember but with the death of Wilder DeSantis things have now gotten out of control. Gemma believes that she needs to sacrifice herself to save her family and there isn't anything she wouldn't do for them.
Aiden DeSantis is meant to follow in his father's footsteps, especially after the death of his brother, Wilder. Yet Aiden doesn't hold any grudge against Gemma herself, in fact he wants her for himself but he knows he is up against his father on this one.
Can Aiden keep Gemma safe when his father, Jameson, wants to use her against her own father, Lawrence? Will Gemma be able to trust that Aiden has her bets interests?
This was such a good book and I can't wait for the next one!!!
I love Gemma and how much she really loved her family and was willing to do whatever she could to help them. My heart broke for what she went through at times during the book and I really got why she was hesitant to trust Aiden, especially after what happened with Kai.
Aiden was a bit of a mystery to me as I knew that he really did care about Gemma and wanted her for himself yet he was still involved with his father and that was going after the rest of Gemma's family for the death of Wilder.
Gemma was a real good girl and innocent who was brought into a world where she didn't know who to trust and who would be there for her. I liked that she gradually became close with Cat as Cat seemed to be in a world that she necessarily didn't belong in either.
I absolutely hated Aiden's dad, Jameson. He was so cruel and cold hearted and I hated what he did to Gemma and others. He was mad that Aiden wanted Gemma and that he wanted to protect her.
There were a few OMG moments through the book and I could see that Gemma was really beginning to care about Aiden and could see a life with him. Yet when she found out something her whole demeanor seemed to change.
I was happy when Amelia was there for Gemma at the end but then everything just erupts and I was sort of thinking something was going to happen but OMG!!!
The very end was beyond OMG!!! My jaw just hit the ground but in a way I wasn't surprised and I can't wait to see what Gemma is going to do!!
Aiden DeSantis is meant to follow in his father's footsteps, especially after the death of his brother, Wilder. Yet Aiden doesn't hold any grudge against Gemma herself, in fact he wants her for himself but he knows he is up against his father on this one.
Can Aiden keep Gemma safe when his father, Jameson, wants to use her against her own father, Lawrence? Will Gemma be able to trust that Aiden has her bets interests?
This was such a good book and I can't wait for the next one!!!
I love Gemma and how much she really loved her family and was willing to do whatever she could to help them. My heart broke for what she went through at times during the book and I really got why she was hesitant to trust Aiden, especially after what happened with Kai.
Aiden was a bit of a mystery to me as I knew that he really did care about Gemma and wanted her for himself yet he was still involved with his father and that was going after the rest of Gemma's family for the death of Wilder.
Gemma was a real good girl and innocent who was brought into a world where she didn't know who to trust and who would be there for her. I liked that she gradually became close with Cat as Cat seemed to be in a world that she necessarily didn't belong in either.
I absolutely hated Aiden's dad, Jameson. He was so cruel and cold hearted and I hated what he did to Gemma and others. He was mad that Aiden wanted Gemma and that he wanted to protect her.
There were a few OMG moments through the book and I could see that Gemma was really beginning to care about Aiden and could see a life with him. Yet when she found out something her whole demeanor seemed to change.
I was happy when Amelia was there for Gemma at the end but then everything just erupts and I was sort of thinking something was going to happen but OMG!!!
The very end was beyond OMG!!! My jaw just hit the ground but in a way I wasn't surprised and I can't wait to see what Gemma is going to do!!
December 25, 2021
1.5 rating
I don't give books a low rating lightly. Unfortunately the only good thing about this Mafia novel was the cover. Kudos to whomever picked it out. The rest of the story was a big disappointment. It was set in a world that is outdated and overly dramatic. This is not 1970 and this is not the Sopranos.
Others found this novel to their liking but having read some very well done Mafia genre over the last several years that is both dark and dirty, found this book to be lacking in character development/depth, storyline content and plot. The book lacked an adequate backstory for both characters with both Gemma and Aiden seeming superficial and childish at times. The book cover is of a man and yet Aiden acts liked a horny teenager throughout much of this book and not the man he is supposed to replicate on the cover. It ends in a cliffhanger which is not noted in the book blurb. It can be easily noted in the book blurb if a book continues since most of these books are purchased.
You can only have so much murder, death and dying in one story before it becomes redundant and just another day. How do you connect with a character like Gemma whose motives for giving herself to Aiden are not really defined but glossed over with innuendos regarding Connor, but not facts. This novel has too much gray with little definition as to the "why's and wherefores" that any novel needs at some point. One minute Aiden is shooting her cousin in the face and the next she is falling apart and then jumping into bed with him. Really? Her constant bantering about the Mafia ways is just to old school for me. Aiden is like looking at someone with a split personality; killing w/o any remorse and them wanting to f.......ck Gemma the next and protect her. The wedding was soooo predictable with the shoot-out; deja vu.
Neither character was believable or likeable with both characters pursuing their personal agenda's that didn't include the each other. I won't be reading the next release of this story.
I don't give books a low rating lightly. Unfortunately the only good thing about this Mafia novel was the cover. Kudos to whomever picked it out. The rest of the story was a big disappointment. It was set in a world that is outdated and overly dramatic. This is not 1970 and this is not the Sopranos.
Others found this novel to their liking but having read some very well done Mafia genre over the last several years that is both dark and dirty, found this book to be lacking in character development/depth, storyline content and plot. The book lacked an adequate backstory for both characters with both Gemma and Aiden seeming superficial and childish at times. The book cover is of a man and yet Aiden acts liked a horny teenager throughout much of this book and not the man he is supposed to replicate on the cover. It ends in a cliffhanger which is not noted in the book blurb. It can be easily noted in the book blurb if a book continues since most of these books are purchased.
You can only have so much murder, death and dying in one story before it becomes redundant and just another day. How do you connect with a character like Gemma whose motives for giving herself to Aiden are not really defined but glossed over with innuendos regarding Connor, but not facts. This novel has too much gray with little definition as to the "why's and wherefores" that any novel needs at some point. One minute Aiden is shooting her cousin in the face and the next she is falling apart and then jumping into bed with him. Really? Her constant bantering about the Mafia ways is just to old school for me. Aiden is like looking at someone with a split personality; killing w/o any remorse and them wanting to f.......ck Gemma the next and protect her. The wedding was soooo predictable with the shoot-out; deja vu.
Neither character was believable or likeable with both characters pursuing their personal agenda's that didn't include the each other. I won't be reading the next release of this story.
May 23, 2022
Overall Opinion: this is probably the first published mafia book that I have loved. I got lost in it and was excited about it. I liked the storyline and everything. I can’t wait for the story to continue, I just hope that it exceeds my expectations.
Storyline Opinion: I really liked it. I wasn’t expecting to like it as much as I did. But the storyline was nice and exciting.
Brief Summary of Storyline: Gemma has a history with Aiden. Years ago they spent the day and since then Gem has had changes to her life. Present time she’s taken by Aiden after a feud breaks out between families.
Point Of View (POV): dual pov. Mainly Gemma’s- quiet liked it.
Overall Pace of Story: good. I got lost in the book which doesn’t happen often. I genuinely enjoyed reading it and wasn’t waiting for the next thing to happen. It flowed nicely and made for a great story.
Instalove: I would say chemistry rather than love.
H (Hero) rating: Aiden: 5 — I really like him. He’s tough but a teddy and I like that.
h (heroine) rating: Gemma: 5 — I also like her. Something about both characters is I think all their actions made sense. That they weren’t blowing this out of proportion.
Favorite Character (FC): Aiden.
Favorite Part: when Aiden brought Gem out on the bike.
Sadness level: 0
Push/Pull: the push and pull flowed nicely. The hate love they have for each other wasn’t annoying.
Spice level: 3.8
Descriptive spice: I really liked it. I feel I’ve been in a drought of spice for 10+ books. This was nice and refreshing. Good spice.
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: family drama ⭐️
Cheating: none
Separation: in the end.
Possible Triggers: ⠀blood. Death. Drugs. Weapons. Kidnapping. Murder. Violence.
Closure: Gemma found out she is the new leader of her family. As well that Aidens brother is still alive.
Off-Putting thoughts/moments: I didn’t love that she was brought to the prostitues, but it made sense.
Will I read again?: maybe. Leaning towards a yes depending on how this second books goes.
Green quote:
Any last thoughts?: I’m happy with it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2021
Aiden DeSantis is savage, cruel, and wild. The untamed new heir of the DeSantis Mafia.
He hunts my father and brother, but he finds me instead.
The girl he fixated on for years.
The one person he could never have.
And now that he’s captured me, he wants to keep me.
He might be savage, but I’m reckless. And in a battle of hearts and sacrifices, only one of us can win.
Well well well…i honestly don’t even know where to begin. S. Massery has got me all tongue tied and just shocked!! She is a straight savage! I thought Luca and Amelia were my favorite couple but let me tell you, Aiden and Gemma are ON FIRE 🔥🔥.
Aiden is just sexy, dominant, unapologetic and crazy obsessive and he just makes you crave every ounce of attention! When he wants something, he is not shy about it but i will say he does have some amazing restraint which makes him ten times sexier! Once you read this book, you’ll understand what i mean!
And then you have princess Gemma, who i will have to admit surprised me in so many ways. She isn’t naive to the mafia world completely but her perspective of it makes her very dangerous and smart! You will come to see her in a new light as she opens up her experiences and lets inside her darkness. Gemma isn’t just some little princess, she is slowly turning into a queen and it’s a sight to behold!
Aiden definitely has his hands full with Gemma and she makes him absolutely crazy! All the twists and turns this story has to offer is incredible! It draws you in, and makes you never want to stop reading!! BUT GOODNESS GRACIOUS, i was not expecting this ending!!! S. Massery is amazing and cunning and i can only try to imagine what the second book of this duet is going to consist of!!!
Get ready for Aiden and Gemma to capture your heart, mind and soul! ❤️❤️ they are a couple that will stay with you forever!
Sara Massery i love and hate you right now because now i have to wait for the next book!!!
He hunts my father and brother, but he finds me instead.
The girl he fixated on for years.
The one person he could never have.
And now that he’s captured me, he wants to keep me.
He might be savage, but I’m reckless. And in a battle of hearts and sacrifices, only one of us can win.
Well well well…i honestly don’t even know where to begin. S. Massery has got me all tongue tied and just shocked!! She is a straight savage! I thought Luca and Amelia were my favorite couple but let me tell you, Aiden and Gemma are ON FIRE 🔥🔥.
Aiden is just sexy, dominant, unapologetic and crazy obsessive and he just makes you crave every ounce of attention! When he wants something, he is not shy about it but i will say he does have some amazing restraint which makes him ten times sexier! Once you read this book, you’ll understand what i mean!
And then you have princess Gemma, who i will have to admit surprised me in so many ways. She isn’t naive to the mafia world completely but her perspective of it makes her very dangerous and smart! You will come to see her in a new light as she opens up her experiences and lets inside her darkness. Gemma isn’t just some little princess, she is slowly turning into a queen and it’s a sight to behold!
Aiden definitely has his hands full with Gemma and she makes him absolutely crazy! All the twists and turns this story has to offer is incredible! It draws you in, and makes you never want to stop reading!! BUT GOODNESS GRACIOUS, i was not expecting this ending!!! S. Massery is amazing and cunning and i can only try to imagine what the second book of this duet is going to consist of!!!
Get ready for Aiden and Gemma to capture your heart, mind and soul! ❤️❤️ they are a couple that will stay with you forever!
Sara Massery i love and hate you right now because now i have to wait for the next book!!!
August 16, 2023
Before I jump into my review, there are a few things you should know: As a romance reader there are three big things I care about when I read a book: The point of view (POV). Who is telling the story? The plot. Is it predictable? Has it been done before? The spice. Is there any? How soon? How spicy? If you’re interested in reading more about why I’ve given it FOUR STARS, please read on.
First, I read and reviewed Ruthless Saint (DeSantis Mafia Book One). I will say that this book is MUCH better, giving it an additional star. Ruthless Saint dropped enough breadcrumbs about the two main characters of Savage Prince and sucked me in!
Savage Prince is told from two points of view, by the female main character (Gemma) and male main character (Aiden). I prefer character POV because I feel like I really get to know the characters better. Just as I noted in my review of book one, the author did an excellent job of diving into the workings of each character’s mind, supporting the character’s perceptions and reactions. Gemma is a strong FMC who manages to keep her head above water time and time again. Watching her come to life with each chapter was refreshing. Aiden, while fiercely loyal, isn’t stupid. He is also unashamedly honesty, making his intentions quite clear. Trust me, these two are fire!
The plot was not predictable, and I was waiting to see what would happen next, how the characters would respond to the situations. I am so glad that I chose to move forward with the series and didn’t let the lackluster relationship in the first book deter me – it was WORTH IT!! I am not going to summarize the plot because you can get that from the blurb/synopsis.
The spice was a 4/5 (I reserve fives for next-level spice). You won’t find a slow burn here! Without dropping any spoilers I’ll just say that you won’t be kept waiting and even if you were. . .it would be worth the wait! On to the third and final book. . . hopefully I’ll see you in those reviews!
First, I read and reviewed Ruthless Saint (DeSantis Mafia Book One). I will say that this book is MUCH better, giving it an additional star. Ruthless Saint dropped enough breadcrumbs about the two main characters of Savage Prince and sucked me in!
Savage Prince is told from two points of view, by the female main character (Gemma) and male main character (Aiden). I prefer character POV because I feel like I really get to know the characters better. Just as I noted in my review of book one, the author did an excellent job of diving into the workings of each character’s mind, supporting the character’s perceptions and reactions. Gemma is a strong FMC who manages to keep her head above water time and time again. Watching her come to life with each chapter was refreshing. Aiden, while fiercely loyal, isn’t stupid. He is also unashamedly honesty, making his intentions quite clear. Trust me, these two are fire!
The plot was not predictable, and I was waiting to see what would happen next, how the characters would respond to the situations. I am so glad that I chose to move forward with the series and didn’t let the lackluster relationship in the first book deter me – it was WORTH IT!! I am not going to summarize the plot because you can get that from the blurb/synopsis.
The spice was a 4/5 (I reserve fives for next-level spice). You won’t find a slow burn here! Without dropping any spoilers I’ll just say that you won’t be kept waiting and even if you were. . .it would be worth the wait! On to the third and final book. . . hopefully I’ll see you in those reviews!
June 23, 2021
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I love this series so much. This is the second book in the series. I fell in love with Luca and Amalie in Ruthless Saint and couldn't wait to read about Aiden and Gemma in Savage Prince. I wasn't disappointed. From the beginning to the cliffhanger I couldn't stop reading. This book is read from a 2 person POV and both characters are written in great detail. S. Massery has a way of taking you on a great ride through her books and tossing in a little twist and turn. There are a few scenarios that people might find triggering so read with caution. I love the dark mafia romance and enjoyed every chapter in this book. I am so looking forward to the conclusion of Aiden and Gemma!!!
Aiden DeSantis is untamed, wild, and savage in his life and with the girl he has been fixated on for a couple of years. I loved how he was ruthless when it came to Gemma and protecting her. I enjoyed how I got to know his thoughts and how he felt about things in his life and how he felt about his new roommate. The action in and out of the tower she was in was a thrill ride in itself. The angst and push and pull between them are nail-biting!!!
Gemma is the mafia princess that we all think that she is but as she goes on her strength shows and grows. She was like a flower in bloom. She started out looking so timid and scared of the life she was being thrust into, but by the end, she was a rose with sharp thorns that she let shine and would impale anyone who tried to hurt her.
S. Massery loves to take you on a thrill ride and will have you trying to guess what's coming next and then taking you in a different direction. And that cliffy was just wow!!! I love cliffhangers and can't wait to see what happens!! Go, Team Gemma!!! Or maybe Go, Team Aiden because he is coming for her.....
I love this series so much. This is the second book in the series. I fell in love with Luca and Amalie in Ruthless Saint and couldn't wait to read about Aiden and Gemma in Savage Prince. I wasn't disappointed. From the beginning to the cliffhanger I couldn't stop reading. This book is read from a 2 person POV and both characters are written in great detail. S. Massery has a way of taking you on a great ride through her books and tossing in a little twist and turn. There are a few scenarios that people might find triggering so read with caution. I love the dark mafia romance and enjoyed every chapter in this book. I am so looking forward to the conclusion of Aiden and Gemma!!!
Aiden DeSantis is untamed, wild, and savage in his life and with the girl he has been fixated on for a couple of years. I loved how he was ruthless when it came to Gemma and protecting her. I enjoyed how I got to know his thoughts and how he felt about things in his life and how he felt about his new roommate. The action in and out of the tower she was in was a thrill ride in itself. The angst and push and pull between them are nail-biting!!!
Gemma is the mafia princess that we all think that she is but as she goes on her strength shows and grows. She was like a flower in bloom. She started out looking so timid and scared of the life she was being thrust into, but by the end, she was a rose with sharp thorns that she let shine and would impale anyone who tried to hurt her.
S. Massery loves to take you on a thrill ride and will have you trying to guess what's coming next and then taking you in a different direction. And that cliffy was just wow!!! I love cliffhangers and can't wait to see what happens!! Go, Team Gemma!!! Or maybe Go, Team Aiden because he is coming for her.....
June 29, 2021
This is the second book of the DeSantis Mafia series, Aiden and Gemma's story is a mafia princess story that has a total possessive alpha jerk going after her. The story is such a wild ride that I loved every page, there were times where I really loved Aiden and others where I wanted to strangle him, I loved the twists and turns in the story, which got me reading unit very late at night. I really liked the storyline of this book, can't wait to see what comes next in the series.
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August 26, 2021
Savage Prince
DeSantis Mafia, Book 2
By: S. Massery
Narrated by: Stephanie Rose, Troy Duran
Ruthless, passionate, dangerous, hateful, loving, you name it and S. Massery has taken us on a wild ride with Gemma and Aiden's story. We pick up where we left off in book one with this spin off, and get to see exactly how badly Aiden is seeking his revenge. After the death of his brother, he is intent on taking out the person who killed him. With Gemma's family as prime suspects, she is going to do whatever it takes to keep them safe. How will these two every find happiness? I love the intrigue in this story. From the scenes with Aiden's despicable father Jameson to the budding friendship of Gemma and Cat we are thrown on a roller coaster of emotions. The danger is real, the passion is unmistakable and the outcome undetermined. It's the best kind of feeling when listening to a story. The ones that keep me guessing are the best! Massery leaves us with a bit of happiness and a cliffhanger that just wants me to scream until Savage Crown is released! Thank you, it's the best kind of listen!
With a good story, narration is key, Troy Duran and Stephanie Rose just bring it to the forefront. Duran is fantastic. His dangerous voice is one of my favorite, and he adds that darkness to Aiden. It's raw and scary, then he switches to the passion and it's heart melting. Gemma is complex, doesn't know which way to turn and is coming to terms with her feelings. Rose is amazing, and she incorporates it all into Gemma's voice with her tones. We can feel her turmoil. I enjoy this team, and they have a created a world I can get lost in.
https://adbl.co/2WdjjNF
DeSantis Mafia, Book 2
By: S. Massery
Narrated by: Stephanie Rose, Troy Duran
Ruthless, passionate, dangerous, hateful, loving, you name it and S. Massery has taken us on a wild ride with Gemma and Aiden's story. We pick up where we left off in book one with this spin off, and get to see exactly how badly Aiden is seeking his revenge. After the death of his brother, he is intent on taking out the person who killed him. With Gemma's family as prime suspects, she is going to do whatever it takes to keep them safe. How will these two every find happiness? I love the intrigue in this story. From the scenes with Aiden's despicable father Jameson to the budding friendship of Gemma and Cat we are thrown on a roller coaster of emotions. The danger is real, the passion is unmistakable and the outcome undetermined. It's the best kind of feeling when listening to a story. The ones that keep me guessing are the best! Massery leaves us with a bit of happiness and a cliffhanger that just wants me to scream until Savage Crown is released! Thank you, it's the best kind of listen!
With a good story, narration is key, Troy Duran and Stephanie Rose just bring it to the forefront. Duran is fantastic. His dangerous voice is one of my favorite, and he adds that darkness to Aiden. It's raw and scary, then he switches to the passion and it's heart melting. Gemma is complex, doesn't know which way to turn and is coming to terms with her feelings. Rose is amazing, and she incorporates it all into Gemma's voice with her tones. We can feel her turmoil. I enjoy this team, and they have a created a world I can get lost in.
https://adbl.co/2WdjjNF
June 25, 2021
So, I know people always say never judge a book by it's cover. However, I have to start this review by talking about this cover. I think we all need to stop and appreciate the fact that with this cover S. Massery gave us a MAN.... I mean wow. For me that model give the character of Aiden a lot to live up to.
S. Massery did not disappoint with the first book of this duet. We had met both Aiden and Gemma a little bit in the first book of the series, Ruthless Saint. They are both so much more than I even anticipated. Gemma may seem like a sweet, innocent mafia princess, but she can play hard and dirty with the big boys. She has some balls on her. Aiden initially seems like an alpha a**hole, and well, to be honest his is. He also has some pretty intense feelings driving him to be so possessive.
There were scenes in this book that made me wish I could reach in and smack Aiden. Then there were others where he made me swoon. I totally love the times he went all caveman on Gemma. There were several scenes in this book where I was so proud of Gemma I literally screamed "Go Gemma" out loud, thankfully I was a lone at work when that happened.
This book is a total trip. There were some extremely unexpected surprises towards the end. I am going to be anxiously awaiting the second book in the duet see how this ends.
S. Massery did not disappoint with the first book of this duet. We had met both Aiden and Gemma a little bit in the first book of the series, Ruthless Saint. They are both so much more than I even anticipated. Gemma may seem like a sweet, innocent mafia princess, but she can play hard and dirty with the big boys. She has some balls on her. Aiden initially seems like an alpha a**hole, and well, to be honest his is. He also has some pretty intense feelings driving him to be so possessive.
There were scenes in this book that made me wish I could reach in and smack Aiden. Then there were others where he made me swoon. I totally love the times he went all caveman on Gemma. There were several scenes in this book where I was so proud of Gemma I literally screamed "Go Gemma" out loud, thankfully I was a lone at work when that happened.
This book is a total trip. There were some extremely unexpected surprises towards the end. I am going to be anxiously awaiting the second book in the duet see how this ends.
June 22, 2021
Two weddings and a funeral??? Savage Prince by S. Massery is the first of a duet, but it continues the DeSantis Mafia series. Gripping and edgy are the actions of the anti-hero Aiden, and Massery writes him so well. You might think this is the typical mafia romance story but believe me, it is NOT! Gemma and Aiden just jump off the pages and are brought to life with the all the up and down emotions these two must endure. I started reading this book and didn’t stop (in other words, finished it in one day). So many twists and turns and so many betrayals I swear I still don’t know which family is good and which is bad. Do I go with Team DeSantis or Team West? Mafia, guns, and blood, OH MY! Savage Prince is a 5-star read by S. Massery.
The DeSantis family thinks that their rivals the Wests have killed one of their own. Now on a mission for revenge, Aiden DeSantis takes the West’s mafia princess and literally keeps her locked away in tower, or so he thinks. Gemma West wants to save her family and even though she’s scared she can’t help but feel the excitement of being near Aiden again. Aiden, the guy who three years earlier, helped her escape for a day and just be a normal girl. Gemma has an agenda but does the Savage Prince have one too or is he just trying to keep Gemma safe?
The DeSantis family thinks that their rivals the Wests have killed one of their own. Now on a mission for revenge, Aiden DeSantis takes the West’s mafia princess and literally keeps her locked away in tower, or so he thinks. Gemma West wants to save her family and even though she’s scared she can’t help but feel the excitement of being near Aiden again. Aiden, the guy who three years earlier, helped her escape for a day and just be a normal girl. Gemma has an agenda but does the Savage Prince have one too or is he just trying to keep Gemma safe?
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