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This love is a tragedy…
Gemma DelGado is the principessa of the Providence mafia.
Depressed and mourning the death of her mother, her best friends are Adderall and a bottle of vodka.
Liam O’Connor is the son of the Irish crime boss.
He’s not a knight in shining armor, he’s not even a good guy, and he has no time to save a broken woman.
They should have never met.
Their lives collide in the back office of an Irish pub and everything changes.
Hearts beating, blood flowing, skin on fire - they finally feel alive.
But this chance encounter leaves them both with a choice…
Can they betray their families?
*This is the second book in the DelGado Trilogy, all books can be read as standalones but it’s recommended to read them in order for the best experience.
Trigger Warning: This book contains themes of sexual assault and suicidal ideation
Gemma DelGado is the principessa of the Providence mafia.
Depressed and mourning the death of her mother, her best friends are Adderall and a bottle of vodka.
Liam O’Connor is the son of the Irish crime boss.
He’s not a knight in shining armor, he’s not even a good guy, and he has no time to save a broken woman.
They should have never met.
Their lives collide in the back office of an Irish pub and everything changes.
Hearts beating, blood flowing, skin on fire - they finally feel alive.
But this chance encounter leaves them both with a choice…
Can they betray their families?
*This is the second book in the DelGado Trilogy, all books can be read as standalones but it’s recommended to read them in order for the best experience.
Trigger Warning: This book contains themes of sexual assault and suicidal ideation
218 pages, ebook
First published August 28, 2020
91 people are currently reading
731 people want to read
About the author
Natalia Lourose
20 books555 followersNatalia Lourose writes angsty romance about broken people figuring out life and finding love along the way. Television and far too much smut as a teenager left her obsessed with dark-haired bad boys who are moody and wear leather jackets. Tucked away in her writing nook with a dog at her feet, two cats on her keyboard, and husband yelling at the computer – she is always writing something, or trying to.
She loves interacting with fans and fellow book lovers on social media!
She loves interacting with fans and fellow book lovers on social media!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
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March 20, 2021Gemma and Liam’s mafia families were great enemies. Italians and Irish were not meant to be together.
When the two of them met, they were very attracted to each other.
They were two people who were just getting to know each other and the third time they met Gemma said to Liam “This love is doomed.”
When did love happen??? Yes, they had great chemistry, but I wasn’t convinced of their strong feelings of love so soon.
I saw the ratings and I am glad almost all readers loved this very well written story, however I am not a big fan of falling-in-love-so-fast.
Dnf @ 43%
When the two of them met, they were very attracted to each other.
They were two people who were just getting to know each other and the third time they met Gemma said to Liam “This love is doomed.”
When did love happen??? Yes, they had great chemistry, but I wasn’t convinced of their strong feelings of love so soon.
I saw the ratings and I am glad almost all readers loved this very well written story, however I am not a big fan of falling-in-love-so-fast.
Dnf @ 43%
August 28, 2020
I LOVED IT!
I cannot even express how much. Gemma and Liam have such an amazing relationship. Their dynamic is top notch. And their first meeting? To be completely honest I didn't expect it to go like this.
The book was hot and romantic which not always goes hand in hand. There need to be balance and there was. I'm especially happy that it wasn't just romance but the problems that go with being a part of mafia. All the rules, perspectives and what people expect from one another. It was all there and so much more.
I said it already, but I'll repeat myself till the end of the world (or at least until the next book comes out) I LOVE Gian. He has so much potential that I cannot wait for his book. And in this one he shows you exactly what you can expect from him later on.
I cannot even express how much. Gemma and Liam have such an amazing relationship. Their dynamic is top notch. And their first meeting? To be completely honest I didn't expect it to go like this.
The book was hot and romantic which not always goes hand in hand. There need to be balance and there was. I'm especially happy that it wasn't just romance but the problems that go with being a part of mafia. All the rules, perspectives and what people expect from one another. It was all there and so much more.
I said it already, but I'll repeat myself till the end of the world (or at least until the next book comes out) I LOVE Gian. He has so much potential that I cannot wait for his book. And in this one he shows you exactly what you can expect from him later on.
August 31, 2020
This series just keeps getting better and better. The writing in this book was great. I loved the forbidden aspect of the relationship between the h and H. Bonus points for no OW drama. All the drama stemmed from the families and their hate for each other. The action scenes were great and so were the love scenes. I really liked Gemma and Liam as a couple.
I think that the angst was the best part of the story. You could really feel the emotions of the characters and what they were going through. The had a lot standing between them and it was a hard path that they went through. I liked how things ended for them. There was a pretty long separation but I couldn’t really tell if the H and h were celibate during this time; I wish the author had stated this because I’m a weirdo and I need to know lol. All in all I highly recommend this book. I can’t wait for Giant’s story and I hope it will be as intense as he is!
I think that the angst was the best part of the story. You could really feel the emotions of the characters and what they were going through. The had a lot standing between them and it was a hard path that they went through. I liked how things ended for them. There was a pretty long separation but I couldn’t really tell if the H and h were celibate during this time; I wish the author had stated this because I’m a weirdo and I need to know lol. All in all I highly recommend this book. I can’t wait for Giant’s story and I hope it will be as intense as he is!
August 31, 2020
What a fantastic forbidden lovers mafia romance this was. Natalia Lourose combines great writing with a sexy and action-packed storyline in this second installment of the Delgado Trilogy. The story was equal parts emotional and erotic and those elements really worked well together to create an engaging reading experience.
"I'm never going to fucking let Gemma Delgado go. The princess is mine.""
Both Liam and Gemma were well written and each of their personal struggles added depth to their characters. I think the author handled their issues really well and in a sensitive manner. Gemma was someone drowning in grief and loneliness. She met Liam at a time when she desperately needed a lifeline. I loved her character and the way she was strong without being abrasive and still maintained her vulnerability. Liam was a fantastic character as well and I loved how gone he was for Gemma from the start. He was so good to her and they way they saw each other in a way no one else did really contributed to the solidity of their growing bond. The chemistry between them was hot and the forbidden element to their relationship made their encounters even hotter.
"We breathe life into the other one, giving each other the strength to fucking get out of bed in the morning and live another day. More than that, take the fucking day by storm."
The mafia and romance elements were both very well written and the family dynamics were as well. The path to happiness for Liam and Gemma was a rocky one and I really enjoyed the angst and raw emotion that the author gave her readers along the way. This was a really impressive story and I am really looking forward to the third book in this series.
"I'm never going to fucking let Gemma Delgado go. The princess is mine.""
Both Liam and Gemma were well written and each of their personal struggles added depth to their characters. I think the author handled their issues really well and in a sensitive manner. Gemma was someone drowning in grief and loneliness. She met Liam at a time when she desperately needed a lifeline. I loved her character and the way she was strong without being abrasive and still maintained her vulnerability. Liam was a fantastic character as well and I loved how gone he was for Gemma from the start. He was so good to her and they way they saw each other in a way no one else did really contributed to the solidity of their growing bond. The chemistry between them was hot and the forbidden element to their relationship made their encounters even hotter.
"We breathe life into the other one, giving each other the strength to fucking get out of bed in the morning and live another day. More than that, take the fucking day by storm."
The mafia and romance elements were both very well written and the family dynamics were as well. The path to happiness for Liam and Gemma was a rocky one and I really enjoyed the angst and raw emotion that the author gave her readers along the way. This was a really impressive story and I am really looking forward to the third book in this series.
September 29, 2020
This is a fastburn, love on first sight romance story. With some hot in between the sheets scene's. Both Liam and Gemma are lost in their life's. They can't find meaning for everything. Both lost to depression, they think about ending their own life. Until they meet. And everything changes.
September 1, 2020
This love is a tragedy.
We’re star-crossed lovers, two humans from opposing families sneaking around in the depths of the dark for just a second of the love that fairytales talk about.
I have a soft spot for star-crossed lover, what can I say? Especially when you have these depressed MCs that just resonated too well with me. Both of them were trapped in a situation where their own families want to kill each other. They lost a mother and a brother. Where can things can go from there?
I wanted her to choose this. Choose me.
She did.
Neither of us got a choice in this life. We were born into our families, having to play by rules we didn’t ask for. At least, we made this choice to be here. She deserves that much, I think.
Gahhh... I'm such in a moody sobby mood over this.
We’re star-crossed lovers, two humans from opposing families sneaking around in the depths of the dark for just a second of the love that fairytales talk about.
I have a soft spot for star-crossed lover, what can I say? Especially when you have these depressed MCs that just resonated too well with me. Both of them were trapped in a situation where their own families want to kill each other. They lost a mother and a brother. Where can things can go from there?
I wanted her to choose this. Choose me.
She did.
Neither of us got a choice in this life. We were born into our families, having to play by rules we didn’t ask for. At least, we made this choice to be here. She deserves that much, I think.
Gahhh... I'm such in a moody sobby mood over this.
August 30, 2020
3🌟🌟🌟
ALL THE LOVE TO GEMMA AND HER RED LEXUS❤️
Who’s better to understand your pain and loss than someone already experiencing it? There’s no words needed to explain it because you are both feeling the same. And that’s when two souls find comfort in each other’s pain for the people they lost.
I was only expecting more from the “mafia” plot, more dark and bloody scenes. I also thought Gemma and Liam started having feelings for each other a bit too quickly for me, I wanted more moments for them to know each otherbefore their relationship started developing that much.
It was an amazing read regardless!
ARC provided for an honest review.
ALL THE LOVE TO GEMMA AND HER RED LEXUS❤️
Who’s better to understand your pain and loss than someone already experiencing it? There’s no words needed to explain it because you are both feeling the same. And that’s when two souls find comfort in each other’s pain for the people they lost.
I was only expecting more from the “mafia” plot, more dark and bloody scenes. I also thought Gemma and Liam started having feelings for each other a bit too quickly for me, I wanted more moments for them to know each otherbefore their relationship started developing that much.
It was an amazing read regardless!
ARC provided for an honest review.
August 24, 2020
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"We're two broken people. Living in two completely different worlds. We're not meant to be together."
In this mafia wolds, two opposite sides, two enemies, forbidden love born in blood – yet they found each other in the middle of this mess. The story itself leans more towards the relationship/love between the main characters than the mafia world in which they find themselves.
Undeniable chemistry bouncing between Liam & Gemma from the very first encounter – steamy scenes and radiating energy – they were something.
A very fresh and quick read, flawless writing, a delightful love story that left me with butterflies in my stomach.
August 25, 2020
4.5 stars
“We’re two broken people. Living in two completely different worlds. We’re not meant to be together.”
Star-crossed lovers who must not only fight their families war but fight for change and acceptance between the families. This book gets you right in the feels and you cannot help but hope for a happy ending!
Gemma who’s dealing with the loss of her mother, going through bouts of depression and self harm, is a shell of her former life. Gemma one night, ends up on the wrong side of the war and runs into Liam. She finds that life starts to have meaning again. Throughout the trials they have to face, they must hold onto each other through the bad if they want a life with one another.
This book had me breaking for them and hoping that someone who could go through that much heartache and pain can be happy and loved. Natalia does a great job of setting us up with connecting to the characters on an emotional level. Gemma and Liam’s love story is one for the stars!
“We’re two broken people. Living in two completely different worlds. We’re not meant to be together.”
Star-crossed lovers who must not only fight their families war but fight for change and acceptance between the families. This book gets you right in the feels and you cannot help but hope for a happy ending!
Gemma who’s dealing with the loss of her mother, going through bouts of depression and self harm, is a shell of her former life. Gemma one night, ends up on the wrong side of the war and runs into Liam. She finds that life starts to have meaning again. Throughout the trials they have to face, they must hold onto each other through the bad if they want a life with one another.
This book had me breaking for them and hoping that someone who could go through that much heartache and pain can be happy and loved. Natalia does a great job of setting us up with connecting to the characters on an emotional level. Gemma and Liam’s love story is one for the stars!
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August 19, 2020My heart was breaking throughout the whole book.
It's as though I can really feel Gemma's pain & her depression. Let's face it, the ones going through it, never ever talks about it. They try to be strong, they put up a façade. Their thoughts and actions can never be understood by most of us who are so insensitive.
On top of that, she fells in love with Liam O'Connor; how can she possibly be fraternizing with the enemy!? Will they continue? Will they betray their families?
Will they get to live HEA!? 😢
@natalialourose, I love this book more than Gio. I hate that you make me feel this way, like I'm so connected to the DelGados. Now I can't wait for Gian's.
It's as though I can really feel Gemma's pain & her depression. Let's face it, the ones going through it, never ever talks about it. They try to be strong, they put up a façade. Their thoughts and actions can never be understood by most of us who are so insensitive.
On top of that, she fells in love with Liam O'Connor; how can she possibly be fraternizing with the enemy!? Will they continue? Will they betray their families?
Will they get to live HEA!? 😢
@natalialourose, I love this book more than Gio. I hate that you make me feel this way, like I'm so connected to the DelGados. Now I can't wait for Gian's.
August 24, 2020
Gemma and Liam are from rival families.. they aren’t supposed to like one another and they definitely should not have a secret relationship... bad idea all around.. but why does it feel so good to be bad?
When shit hits the fan.. what will they choose? Family or each other? Is there a way to have both?
“I want this Gemma-and we can figure out all the details, we can make this work..I know that it’s messy and there’s a whole lot of petty drama between our families but I don’t give a fuck!”-Liam
God this book is so good y’all!! You just have to read it! If you haven’t started the series yet you can today with Gio... it’s so incredible! There is going to be more right,Natalie?
When shit hits the fan.. what will they choose? Family or each other? Is there a way to have both?
“I want this Gemma-and we can figure out all the details, we can make this work..I know that it’s messy and there’s a whole lot of petty drama between our families but I don’t give a fuck!”-Liam
God this book is so good y’all!! You just have to read it! If you haven’t started the series yet you can today with Gio... it’s so incredible! There is going to be more right,Natalie?
August 30, 2020
Twists and turns ,love , hurt and a happy ending
This is only the second book I've read by natalia and both I've read in 24hrs .they grip and capture you and Gemma was just perfect. A real mafia hea with crazy twists and turns and shocks in the middle . The characters are just fantastic and the whole story pulls you in so you feel a part of them and their story . Its a book you start and cant put down and don't want to wait for the next in the series . Its brilliantly written and I've found another brilliant author . Thankyou , can't wait for the next book 😊
This is only the second book I've read by natalia and both I've read in 24hrs .they grip and capture you and Gemma was just perfect. A real mafia hea with crazy twists and turns and shocks in the middle . The characters are just fantastic and the whole story pulls you in so you feel a part of them and their story . Its a book you start and cant put down and don't want to wait for the next in the series . Its brilliantly written and I've found another brilliant author . Thankyou , can't wait for the next book 😊
August 28, 2020
I loved this book and read it in one sitting. The story is unique and well written with loads of angst and passion. Two families in a long, bloody war, a couple meet by chance and instantly connect. Both are broken, lonely and needing a change. Can they find a way to be together? Will their families accept their love? I highly recommend this action packed, dark read.
August 28, 2020
I loved this irish against Italians its tense violent and steamy when Gemma the italian princess strays into Liam's bar, they are both victims of a feud which puts the kiss of death on any relationship. Brilliant loved it I voluntarily reviewed this book
August 29, 2020
So much intense anger and passion in one story!
”Blood shouldn’t matter. Loyalty has to be earned.”
WOW! Gemma’s story is a very emotional one. It’s filled with such intense anger and passion that it oozes off the pages. I felt all of Gemma’s emotions and her depression as if it was my own. Her need to be independent and love whom ever she wanted made her an extremely passionate and angry woman.
This story is filled with anger, hatred, murder and love. With two families in a long bloody war against each other, can two broken people find love? Will their families understand and accept it? It’s an emotional story that will have your pulse racing, keeping you completely captivated and entertained right to the very end!
Highly recommend.
”Blood shouldn’t matter. Loyalty has to be earned.”
WOW! Gemma’s story is a very emotional one. It’s filled with such intense anger and passion that it oozes off the pages. I felt all of Gemma’s emotions and her depression as if it was my own. Her need to be independent and love whom ever she wanted made her an extremely passionate and angry woman.
This story is filled with anger, hatred, murder and love. With two families in a long bloody war against each other, can two broken people find love? Will their families understand and accept it? It’s an emotional story that will have your pulse racing, keeping you completely captivated and entertained right to the very end!
Highly recommend.
October 16, 2020
4.5⭐️. I really loved this story. It was even better than the first book and i am obsessed with the characters. I wish it was longer though🥺. But nevertheless, such a good easy read. Definitely recommend.
September 15, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
Gemma by Natalia Lourose is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
Full review to come
Gemma by Natalia Lourose is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
Full review to come
May 27, 2021
3 Stars
This one was much better than the first in the series, as they usually are. It carried a heavier undertone dealing with depression and thoughts of suicide as warned in the blurb.
The writing itself was ten times better than the first book. Hardly any issues with grammar or sentence structure. So that was a positive sign.
The MCs Gemma and Liam had a very star-crossed lovers sort of romance. It was written in a fast past setting and most of the time it was easy to forget how little they knew each other or how little they got to spend time together. A few moments had me feeling like it was a insta-sort of love but although love was mentioned early on in their individual POV's it was declared until the end despite being felt between them much sooner. Both Liam and Gemma had dealt with much loss and unhappiness in their lives due to their families. Whole very similar they were quite different. But overall they balanced each other out and worked as a couple for me.
Pretty good read if you aren't easily triggered by the darker content.
This one was much better than the first in the series, as they usually are. It carried a heavier undertone dealing with depression and thoughts of suicide as warned in the blurb.
The writing itself was ten times better than the first book. Hardly any issues with grammar or sentence structure. So that was a positive sign.
The MCs Gemma and Liam had a very star-crossed lovers sort of romance. It was written in a fast past setting and most of the time it was easy to forget how little they knew each other or how little they got to spend time together. A few moments had me feeling like it was a insta-sort of love but although love was mentioned early on in their individual POV's it was declared until the end despite being felt between them much sooner. Both Liam and Gemma had dealt with much loss and unhappiness in their lives due to their families. Whole very similar they were quite different. But overall they balanced each other out and worked as a couple for me.
Pretty good read if you aren't easily triggered by the darker content.
February 28, 2021
I'd previously read Book 1 of this trilogy and I liked Gemma's character from there. I thought she was sarcastic and sassy with a lot of personality. So it was very interesting to see in this book that her appearance in book 1 was more of a facade, and she's in a much darker place initially than one might think.
I'd already guessed that this would be a 'forbidden' trope, as we see mention of Liam at an important point in book 1. From there, I didn't actually know whether I'd like it or not as sometimes you just want to shout at the characters and tell them that they're going to get caught, because you can literally smell the foreshadowing from a mile off lol. But I actually really enjoyed it and it was nice to see the progression of both Gemma and Liam's characters given they both start of in dark place.
The first time Gemma and Liam meet was very hot, and I love that we got to see that interaction so early on. Their relationship is full of heat and although they acknowledged their relationship is essentially doomed, when they're together that don't necessarily focus on that fact. Instead they're both quite present and open with each other. The way the others find out though was definitely not something I was expecting, and I may have audibly gasped when I read the scene! Honestly, I felt like I was more in shock than Gemma lol. I did feel for Liam though, the poor guy had no chance.
One thing that did bug me a little though was when Gemma comes home after being found out. She makes a comment about how she can't be bothered to deal with her family slut-shaming her. Now whilst I agreed with some of her 'feminist' points throughout the book, this was one I didn't get behind and I think it put the DelGado men in a bad light unnecessarily. I personally felt that they had every right to be annoyed, as it was more about WHO she was sleeping with and not that she was sleeping with someone in general. The fact that she didn't seem to understand that seemed a bit naive to me, and I was gutted that her and Gian never really repaired their relationship after that. But I do also understand why at that point, she had had enough of them. The scene where Gio checks on her though was so cute, I'm glad she stayed close with him!
Liam, despite his line of work, actually seemed like a good guy, and I loved how sweet he was with Gemma. It was interesting to see how he handled his job change after everything, as it's something he mentioned he didn't want on numerous occasions. I also really liked that we got to see a more vulnerable side to him on a number of occasions, via his POV, and saw him standing up for Gemma's wants but also accepting that she needed to let him go even if he wasn't on board. His confusion at her initial change in reaction though broke my heart, I really felt for him at that point as the poor guy had no idea why she'd flipped.
Although this is a forbidden mafia love story, the pairs relationship is actually quite sweet when they're together and I loved that between themselves, they weren't ashamed to admit their feelings to each other or didn't go round and round in circles trying to deny it. I think the author did a really good job a giving this trope a fresh plot. Many times with a storyline like this, it's obvious to guess exactly what will happen. But with this book, it kept me on my toes as I wasn't expecting exactly how certain things would play out and it kept it interesting for me.
I'd already guessed that this would be a 'forbidden' trope, as we see mention of Liam at an important point in book 1. From there, I didn't actually know whether I'd like it or not as sometimes you just want to shout at the characters and tell them that they're going to get caught, because you can literally smell the foreshadowing from a mile off lol. But I actually really enjoyed it and it was nice to see the progression of both Gemma and Liam's characters given they both start of in dark place.
The first time Gemma and Liam meet was very hot, and I love that we got to see that interaction so early on. Their relationship is full of heat and although they acknowledged their relationship is essentially doomed, when they're together that don't necessarily focus on that fact. Instead they're both quite present and open with each other. The way the others find out though was definitely not something I was expecting, and I may have audibly gasped when I read the scene! Honestly, I felt like I was more in shock than Gemma lol. I did feel for Liam though, the poor guy had no chance.
One thing that did bug me a little though was when Gemma comes home after being found out. She makes a comment about how she can't be bothered to deal with her family slut-shaming her. Now whilst I agreed with some of her 'feminist' points throughout the book, this was one I didn't get behind and I think it put the DelGado men in a bad light unnecessarily. I personally felt that they had every right to be annoyed, as it was more about WHO she was sleeping with and not that she was sleeping with someone in general. The fact that she didn't seem to understand that seemed a bit naive to me, and I was gutted that her and Gian never really repaired their relationship after that. But I do also understand why at that point, she had had enough of them. The scene where Gio checks on her though was so cute, I'm glad she stayed close with him!
Liam, despite his line of work, actually seemed like a good guy, and I loved how sweet he was with Gemma. It was interesting to see how he handled his job change after everything, as it's something he mentioned he didn't want on numerous occasions. I also really liked that we got to see a more vulnerable side to him on a number of occasions, via his POV, and saw him standing up for Gemma's wants but also accepting that she needed to let him go even if he wasn't on board. His confusion at her initial change in reaction though broke my heart, I really felt for him at that point as the poor guy had no idea why she'd flipped.
Although this is a forbidden mafia love story, the pairs relationship is actually quite sweet when they're together and I loved that between themselves, they weren't ashamed to admit their feelings to each other or didn't go round and round in circles trying to deny it. I think the author did a really good job a giving this trope a fresh plot. Many times with a storyline like this, it's obvious to guess exactly what will happen. But with this book, it kept me on my toes as I wasn't expecting exactly how certain things would play out and it kept it interesting for me.
February 18, 2021
"That’s the funny thing about depression, if you are smart enough you can hide it well." - Gemma
**Trigger warning sexual assault, violence and suicidal ideation
Wow! I have absolutely no words to say. This novel took me by surprise! I loved Gio, but Gemma, oh my gosh! I didn't want it to end. Yes, there are sensitive topics in this book, however Natalia Lourose **chefs kiss** did an outstanding job. I want to say Gemma is my favorite novel (so far) in this trilogy, but I haven't read Gian as yet (the final installment), so we will have to wait and see. Gemma is a great character; her character evolving throughout the book was amazing! She hit rock bottom after her mother's death, but slowly with Liam's help she found her way. She battled her way through, and got out of the darkness that she was in. Finally finding her purpose in life, together with the man she loves.
Two rival mafia/mob families; enemies waging a war. Casualties on both sides; anger and grief, over the death of someone dearest to them. Ever since the sudden death/murder of her mother, Gemma has never been the same. Heavy with grief, she finds no purpose to move on with her life. She turns to drugs and alcohol to drown out her sorrows; to escape from the heavy burden she carries. Liam, caught in between himself and his family's way of life. When is brother is murdered, Liam is out for blood; he wants revenge. What happens when two lost and damaged souls meet? Gemma and Liam find solace in each others arms. Two people who were never supposed to meet; two lovers who got stuck in the crossfire of their families' never ending war.
**Trigger warning sexual assault, violence and suicidal ideation
Wow! I have absolutely no words to say. This novel took me by surprise! I loved Gio, but Gemma, oh my gosh! I didn't want it to end. Yes, there are sensitive topics in this book, however Natalia Lourose **chefs kiss** did an outstanding job. I want to say Gemma is my favorite novel (so far) in this trilogy, but I haven't read Gian as yet (the final installment), so we will have to wait and see. Gemma is a great character; her character evolving throughout the book was amazing! She hit rock bottom after her mother's death, but slowly with Liam's help she found her way. She battled her way through, and got out of the darkness that she was in. Finally finding her purpose in life, together with the man she loves.
Two rival mafia/mob families; enemies waging a war. Casualties on both sides; anger and grief, over the death of someone dearest to them. Ever since the sudden death/murder of her mother, Gemma has never been the same. Heavy with grief, she finds no purpose to move on with her life. She turns to drugs and alcohol to drown out her sorrows; to escape from the heavy burden she carries. Liam, caught in between himself and his family's way of life. When is brother is murdered, Liam is out for blood; he wants revenge. What happens when two lost and damaged souls meet? Gemma and Liam find solace in each others arms. Two people who were never supposed to meet; two lovers who got stuck in the crossfire of their families' never ending war.
December 11, 2020
This love is a tragedy. We’re star-crossed lovers, two humans from opposing families sneaking around in the depths of the dark for just a second of the love that fairytales talk about.
Natalia what the heck have you done to me?!
This story broke me (in a good way) and I've been crying half of the book till the end.
OH.MY Gemma and Liam are THE couple. She's the prince from the Italian mob, and he's the youngest of men of the Irish empire, but then, the only two people who cannot by any circumstances fall in love, hard and fast..and here is where their story begins, blood, family, and vengeance are right around the corner for this two...one step in false and the relanshionship they are trying to hide from everyone could get discovered and nothing would be the same after that.
Gemma is such a strong and determined person, she's also stubborn but I think that' what makes her who she is, that type who doesn't gey shit from anyone, she wants to grom yet she lives in a world where woman are considered less and cannot be trusted with important matters.
The mental health issues that are treated in this book were one of the things that got me so emotional, the author about it so well, and in such a real way..depression is everywhere, the signs are there, we just can't see them and there are so many people that are struggling with that.
This is now one of my favorites mafia books, if you are into forbidden relationships this one is for you, 5 amazing stars for this book that sent me under a roller-coaster of emotions!
November 29, 2021
A book about a strong women who knows she cannot break in front of anyone so she decides to embrace her broken peices inside the four walls of her bedroom
Her father wants her to be normal and go out but what happens when she ends up in a bar owned by her enemy . She wants to go back to her enemy again' and again because she Don't have to rely on marijuana or on whiskey when she's with Liam O'Connor because he sees through her like a mirror .
Liam doesn't want to be a part of this war around him just because someone hated the DelGado a long time ago because he wants to be with the DelGado princess because she takes away all his pain he wants something impossible what happens when things go south and he has no where to run or escape
A book about a strong women who knows she cannot break in front of anyone so she decides to embrace her broken peices inside the four walls of her bedroom A women who knows how to slip the mask on for the world and be the daughter and sister her family wants her to be. But what if she wants to be selfish for once and wants love she deserves .
This book is a romance full of family drama yet it manages to swoon your heart . This is not a sob story ...this is a story of bravery and cleverness Gemma carries with her princess tag
A must read for mafia romance lovers .. loved the book.
Her father wants her to be normal and go out but what happens when she ends up in a bar owned by her enemy . She wants to go back to her enemy again' and again because she Don't have to rely on marijuana or on whiskey when she's with Liam O'Connor because he sees through her like a mirror .
Liam doesn't want to be a part of this war around him just because someone hated the DelGado a long time ago because he wants to be with the DelGado princess because she takes away all his pain he wants something impossible what happens when things go south and he has no where to run or escape
A book about a strong women who knows she cannot break in front of anyone so she decides to embrace her broken peices inside the four walls of her bedroom A women who knows how to slip the mask on for the world and be the daughter and sister her family wants her to be. But what if she wants to be selfish for once and wants love she deserves .
This book is a romance full of family drama yet it manages to swoon your heart . This is not a sob story ...this is a story of bravery and cleverness Gemma carries with her princess tag
A must read for mafia romance lovers .. loved the book.
February 18, 2021
Gemma DelGado has been trying to feel something, anything, for months. She relies on material substances in order to do so, until one day she walks into a bar owned by her family’s rivals, the O’Connors, leaders of the Irish Mafia in Boston. Face to face with Liam O’Connor, Gemma begins to feel something again... but will their feelings start a war between their families?
Liam O’Connor is tired of the mobster life, and what that means. He’s looking for something, and he doesn’t know what that is, until Gemma DelGado waltzes into his bar one day. He’s attracted to her instantly, and as he gets to know her, he feels a real connection with her. But is he willing to defy his family to be with her?
Gemma and Liam know their love has no future. A DelGado and an O’Connor could never be, their families are at war, and people would die. But for some reason, they can’t seem to let each other go... even if it costs them everything they hold dear.
Wow!!! “Gemma” by Natalia Lourose is the second book in the DelGado Trilogy, and it surpassed my expectations. I loved Gemma and Liam’s story just as much as I loved Gio and Annie’s. For fans of mafia romance, or even romance in general, Lourose’s writing will entice you into coming back for more!
Liam O’Connor is tired of the mobster life, and what that means. He’s looking for something, and he doesn’t know what that is, until Gemma DelGado waltzes into his bar one day. He’s attracted to her instantly, and as he gets to know her, he feels a real connection with her. But is he willing to defy his family to be with her?
Gemma and Liam know their love has no future. A DelGado and an O’Connor could never be, their families are at war, and people would die. But for some reason, they can’t seem to let each other go... even if it costs them everything they hold dear.
Wow!!! “Gemma” by Natalia Lourose is the second book in the DelGado Trilogy, and it surpassed my expectations. I loved Gemma and Liam’s story just as much as I loved Gio and Annie’s. For fans of mafia romance, or even romance in general, Lourose’s writing will entice you into coming back for more!
May 6, 2021
Gemma is the second book in the DelGado trilogy.
I really enjoyed this book for a multitude of reasons.
I really enjoyed this book for a multitude of reasons.
January 29, 2022
To be more clear, I'm giving this book 3.75/5.
Liked this more than Gio's book, which I gave a solid 3. Loved how relatable she was with depression, have not experienced it fully myself, but some aspects were familiar.
There was instant love, but it didn't seem fake or rushed. Loved their dialogues and how they loved it each for themselves, not their families. They literally stopped each other from killing themselves.
Gian needs to be tought a lesson, he needs some redemption, because rn I'm kind of putting him in the "I don't like you" pile. Happy to read his book next.
Was asking for a bit more fighting during the big resolve, but it's good, hope this comes in play during Gian's book. Also, the forshadowing for Cross.... LOVED IT.
Overall - a solid second book, even better than the first. Would like some more spice, though.
Liked this more than Gio's book, which I gave a solid 3. Loved how relatable she was with depression, have not experienced it fully myself, but some aspects were familiar.
There was instant love, but it didn't seem fake or rushed. Loved their dialogues and how they loved it each for themselves, not their families. They literally stopped each other from killing themselves.
Gian needs to be tought a lesson, he needs some redemption, because rn I'm kind of putting him in the "I don't like you" pile. Happy to read his book next.
Was asking for a bit more fighting during the big resolve, but it's good, hope this comes in play during Gian's book. Also, the forshadowing for Cross.... LOVED IT.
Overall - a solid second book, even better than the first. Would like some more spice, though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2021
I read this and the first book in one sitting, that is how much I loved it.
Now this is a book that I absolutely love. I love Mafia Romance and I love enemies to lovers romance, put them together into one book and you get Gemma and Liam.
Hot Damnnnn, Liam and Gemma chemistry was so strong that they did not care that they were being disloyal to their family.
I just loved their story, they way they couldn't stay apart. It was like they were a magnet to each other and no matter how hard they tried to stay away, they were pulled back together.
I loved how the other characters were included in this book.
I cant wait to read the next book. That is the book I am very excited about.
Bring it on Natalia Lourose, I am waiting for Gian.
Now this is a book that I absolutely love. I love Mafia Romance and I love enemies to lovers romance, put them together into one book and you get Gemma and Liam.
Hot Damnnnn, Liam and Gemma chemistry was so strong that they did not care that they were being disloyal to their family.
I just loved their story, they way they couldn't stay apart. It was like they were a magnet to each other and no matter how hard they tried to stay away, they were pulled back together.
I loved how the other characters were included in this book.
I cant wait to read the next book. That is the book I am very excited about.
Bring it on Natalia Lourose, I am waiting for Gian.
January 22, 2021
well Natalia sure ramped things up with Gemma, I need me a Liam 😍😍
Sexy Irish mafia man + gorgeous feisty Italian mafia princess. Well you know that's gonna be all kinds of explosive! With drama a plenty from their families can these two bring an end to the war? Or will they crash and burn like Romeo and Juliet?!
I loved seeing the other side of some of the events in Gio and the history between the Italians and the Irish. We get a better idea what has made the families, especially the guys how they are. Gemma is one hell of a FMC with so many different sides to her. I hope we see more of her in future books
Sexy Irish mafia man + gorgeous feisty Italian mafia princess. Well you know that's gonna be all kinds of explosive! With drama a plenty from their families can these two bring an end to the war? Or will they crash and burn like Romeo and Juliet?!
I loved seeing the other side of some of the events in Gio and the history between the Italians and the Irish. We get a better idea what has made the families, especially the guys how they are. Gemma is one hell of a FMC with so many different sides to her. I hope we see more of her in future books
January 16, 2021
Gemma and Liam ❤
Wow, this was a full on emotional packed read. Both Gemma and Liam are trapped and unhappy with their lives and after a chance meeting the chemistry and connection they have for eachother is too much to resist.
I couldn't put this book down! Natalia has created a fantastic range of characters in these two warring families. A fantastic mafia romance and I highly recommend everyone gives this a read.
Wow, this was a full on emotional packed read. Both Gemma and Liam are trapped and unhappy with their lives and after a chance meeting the chemistry and connection they have for eachother is too much to resist.
I couldn't put this book down! Natalia has created a fantastic range of characters in these two warring families. A fantastic mafia romance and I highly recommend everyone gives this a read.
February 23, 2021
Gemma's story is my favorite one in the trilogy. I cried while reading it. My heart was all over the places. Natalia Lourose is an amazing author, I can't praise her enough.
She's the little sister of Gian and Gio, and is overprotected, because all men at home still see her as a baby, and not a woman of 24yo. Her love story with Liam is really beautiful, knowing the war between Italian and Irish Mafia, how will their love survive and last ? Because there's not happy ever after for them... Not when they're pawn in their own world.
But there's battles who are worth it. Gemma will never give up on her family, but she can't give up on Liam either...
She's the little sister of Gian and Gio, and is overprotected, because all men at home still see her as a baby, and not a woman of 24yo. Her love story with Liam is really beautiful, knowing the war between Italian and Irish Mafia, how will their love survive and last ? Because there's not happy ever after for them... Not when they're pawn in their own world.
But there's battles who are worth it. Gemma will never give up on her family, but she can't give up on Liam either...
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