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Kingdoms #2
Sold to the Enemy
I was taught to hate him.
And then I was told to marry him.
He's Nico Monte--the man with the reckless ways and the ruthless blue eyes.
The Monte's are the reason why my family was exiled. They're the reason why we had to run and hide.
They're the most notorious crime family of Chicago, and I've been sold to their prince.
I'm a pawn in the game--a way to reconcile the relationship between two families. My world depends on our union.
It's what I feared the most--becoming someone's possession.
Only, something unexpected happens.
I see a different side of Nico--rough as he is with me in the dark, he's capable of being gentle too.
He looks into my eyes when he calls me his 'little mermaid'. He whispers between kisses that he meant everything he said at the altar.
I almost believe him for a second. But I know better.
The lions always hunt the lambs.
His mistake was underestimating me. They all did.
I'm no lamb. I'm the goddamn huntress.
And I have no choice but to kill whatever I'm starting to feel for my husband. My world depends on it.
Welcome to 'Kingdoms.' Each book is a fairy-tale based contemporary standalone set in the criminal underworld of Chicago. If you like your romance steamy and bordering on the dark side with twists that will have your heart racing, you've come to the right place. HEA always.
And then I was told to marry him.
He's Nico Monte--the man with the reckless ways and the ruthless blue eyes.
The Monte's are the reason why my family was exiled. They're the reason why we had to run and hide.
They're the most notorious crime family of Chicago, and I've been sold to their prince.
I'm a pawn in the game--a way to reconcile the relationship between two families. My world depends on our union.
It's what I feared the most--becoming someone's possession.
Only, something unexpected happens.
I see a different side of Nico--rough as he is with me in the dark, he's capable of being gentle too.
He looks into my eyes when he calls me his 'little mermaid'. He whispers between kisses that he meant everything he said at the altar.
I almost believe him for a second. But I know better.
The lions always hunt the lambs.
His mistake was underestimating me. They all did.
I'm no lamb. I'm the goddamn huntress.
And I have no choice but to kill whatever I'm starting to feel for my husband. My world depends on it.
Welcome to 'Kingdoms.' Each book is a fairy-tale based contemporary standalone set in the criminal underworld of Chicago. If you like your romance steamy and bordering on the dark side with twists that will have your heart racing, you've come to the right place. HEA always.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 11, 2021
681 people are currently reading
586 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
March 14, 2021
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 4/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 1.5/5
Sexual Level: D.R.I.P (Don’t Read In Public)
Triggers: No
Violence: Yes
Male: Dominating, Possessive & Sexy
Series: Book 2
Pages: 279
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I need to gain my equilibrium after reading this book. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I think I like book 2 way more than book 1. It’s like a messy mafia soap opera. You will definitely need to read book 1, Knocked up by the Beast (retelling of Beauty and the Beast), before book 2 (retelling of The Little Mermaid). I remember little about The Little Mermaid; all I can tell you is that I got sucked in by this mafia story.
In Knocked up by the Beast, we met Luna and Nico. Even though we weren’t reading their story, they sparked my interest in a big way. Nico went on a rampage throughout Chicago looking for his wife, thus continuing their story in Sold to the Enemy.
Part 1 - THE PAST
The author starts the story in the past giving us a view of Nico and Luna and their coming together. Nico is addicted to Luna. She is the air he breathes, literally. He was so consumed with Luna, and it shows in book 1 and 2. That was a part of the allure for me and liking his character.
The only negative I had was the sold to the enemy aspect. It was weak. I don’t agree with the title for this book, and that’s just my opinion after completing this story. It felt like a moment, so that concept for me had a short life span.
Part 2 - THE PRESENT
Part 2 intertwines with book 1. It’s almost like reading book 1, but we are reading Luna’s POV in those moments where she was hiding out from her husband. We then progress to all sorts of craziness. I love that we had a bit of mystery and a bit of action that kept me entertained as well.
CHEMISTRY:
The author didn’t give us a multitude of sex scenes that overshadows the story. However, when these two, Nico and Luna get between the sheets, you literally feel how much Nico wants Luna. I was wildly entertained.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
There were so many characters that pulled you in. I love what the author did by giving us mini stories of these characters.
Leo and Bella - Leo was more of a dominating presence for book 2.
Armando Monte - Nico’s brother. I so got hooked to his mini story and wanted more! I won’t say with whom. I hope that he will have his own story.
Ivy, Leo’s sister - Ivy’s POV section, and the first few scenes, damn *fist between teeth*. I’ll let you figure that out. I’ll just say that if that’s their first encounter, I can’t wait to read a whole book.
Overall, I was very much entertained, and I liked all the characters and chemistry that was thrown in my face. I am very much looking forward to book 3.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read and hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 4/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 1.5/5
Sexual Level: D.R.I.P (Don’t Read In Public)
Triggers: No
Violence: Yes
Male: Dominating, Possessive & Sexy
Series: Book 2
Pages: 279
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I need to gain my equilibrium after reading this book. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I think I like book 2 way more than book 1. It’s like a messy mafia soap opera. You will definitely need to read book 1, Knocked up by the Beast (retelling of Beauty and the Beast), before book 2 (retelling of The Little Mermaid). I remember little about The Little Mermaid; all I can tell you is that I got sucked in by this mafia story.
In Knocked up by the Beast, we met Luna and Nico. Even though we weren’t reading their story, they sparked my interest in a big way. Nico went on a rampage throughout Chicago looking for his wife, thus continuing their story in Sold to the Enemy.
Part 1 - THE PAST
The author starts the story in the past giving us a view of Nico and Luna and their coming together. Nico is addicted to Luna. She is the air he breathes, literally. He was so consumed with Luna, and it shows in book 1 and 2. That was a part of the allure for me and liking his character.
The only negative I had was the sold to the enemy aspect. It was weak. I don’t agree with the title for this book, and that’s just my opinion after completing this story. It felt like a moment, so that concept for me had a short life span.
Part 2 - THE PRESENT
Part 2 intertwines with book 1. It’s almost like reading book 1, but we are reading Luna’s POV in those moments where she was hiding out from her husband. We then progress to all sorts of craziness. I love that we had a bit of mystery and a bit of action that kept me entertained as well.
CHEMISTRY:
The author didn’t give us a multitude of sex scenes that overshadows the story. However, when these two, Nico and Luna get between the sheets, you literally feel how much Nico wants Luna. I was wildly entertained.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
There were so many characters that pulled you in. I love what the author did by giving us mini stories of these characters.
Leo and Bella - Leo was more of a dominating presence for book 2.
Armando Monte - Nico’s brother. I so got hooked to his mini story and wanted more! I won’t say with whom. I hope that he will have his own story.
Ivy, Leo’s sister - Ivy’s POV section, and the first few scenes, damn *fist between teeth*. I’ll let you figure that out. I’ll just say that if that’s their first encounter, I can’t wait to read a whole book.
Overall, I was very much entertained, and I liked all the characters and chemistry that was thrown in my face. I am very much looking forward to book 3.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read and hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2023
THIS BOOK WAS. WOWW❤️🔥✨
The plot. The twist. The adventurous fights. And the spice? God, everything was so perfect ❤️🔥🫀
Can't wait to read Ivy's story now 😈
The plot. The twist. The adventurous fights. And the spice? God, everything was so perfect ❤️🔥🫀
Can't wait to read Ivy's story now 😈
April 3, 2021
3.5 stars
2nd book in Kingdom series
This time it's Luna and Nico's turn
I loved the 1st book more , there was a lot of pushing away from Luna !!
But in general it was enjoyable full of details and action! read
So excited about Ivy and Damian 🙈
2nd book in Kingdom series
This time it's Luna and Nico's turn
I loved the 1st book more , there was a lot of pushing away from Luna !!
But in general it was enjoyable full of details and action! read
So excited about Ivy and Damian 🙈
July 9, 2025
I dont think this book is for me, sorry I'll be on the minority.. Mafia stories are one of the genres, to go to for me.. and I love devoted heroes.. I was so excited at first about the plot and the premise.. I even felt the electricity and the sexiness from the first pages.. their reunion at the lake was quite surreal to me.. they got separated as friends when they were children.. then they started to talk.. this was where the book lost me.. events happening so fast.. blurb was so far off from what really transpired.. I thought the hero had a hard work ahead of him coming with regard to winning the heroine and her family, considering what happened in the past between their families.
A lot of questionable scenes followed, that was quite hard for me to go with the ride afterwards.. then time jumping without so much of a background, that left me clueless and bored instead of intrigued.. I thought this book was a stand alone, but I think I should have read the first.. we're talking here of four years time jump, that passed by where the main characters were separated.. it felt to me, there were a lot of things that seemed off, I didn't care to question anymore.. one moment I was looking forward to something happening, especially when the hero finally found his wife, the first time, then nothing.. my anticipated scene I think happened in the first book.
Time jumping again a year later.. this I didn't understand why hero waited so long to find her when all along 'twas easy for him to track her this time, oh my.. I didn't even feel the connection when they saw each other again in Greece.. I'm not into BDSM.. there was quite a bit, so I didn't feel the love and the yearning when they finally got together.. it felt I was reading porn instead by some scenes.. what I found frustrating really was, sex scenes were described in detail but important scenes and events were just left out for me to draw conclusions.
Overall, it felt to me, so much had happened yet it left me feeling lacking as if nothing was happening not until the last few chapters where things got unraveled.. again maybe I should have read the first book or not? .. most things were just narrated or described through internal monologues, instead of actually happening, with regard to this two and other events.. so many chapters past 'til the last few and still I felt so dissatisfied how scenes and issues between the two main characters and mafia families were executed.. there weren't scenes actually but mostly inner thoughts.
Oh I don't know.. this was quite messy to me.. and not to mention the silliness regarding the "Stiletto murders" where twice, hero's internal thought was suspecting or accusing the heroine of having the motive when in fact... I wouldn't spoil this part, but I find this really silly.
When I read my books regardless if they're fiction or whatever genre that take my fancy at the moment, I take them seriously.. I take on the details and I remember them.. so if there are inconsistencies or anything that doesn't add up, I readily notice.. in this book I've found many.. like I said mentioning each would spoil the book for other readers.. as it is, I've mentioned some already.
And yes I didn't like much the main characters mostly the heroine.. and after four years, I couldn't believe the hero would just let her go again, to find the super terror Mafia family by herself, where she could be killed, considering at first he feared for her safety upon discovering the presence of this dangerous ancient Mafia family in Chicago.. I really didn't get the love between this two.. all inner thoughts about how deep their love for each other and yet did opposite things.. and so many inconsistencies, unbelievable and questionable scenarios, they got me dizzy.
But yeah, there's one thing I find intriguing and sexy about the writing style.. first meetings.. first glimpses of main characters of each other.. something that makes you want to devour the book and discover for yourself what more, lies ahead.. and again I was intrigued by Damian and Ivy.. 'hope their story delivers if there's one coming.. I'll be watching out for them.
A lot of questionable scenes followed, that was quite hard for me to go with the ride afterwards.. then time jumping without so much of a background, that left me clueless and bored instead of intrigued.. I thought this book was a stand alone, but I think I should have read the first.. we're talking here of four years time jump, that passed by where the main characters were separated.. it felt to me, there were a lot of things that seemed off, I didn't care to question anymore.. one moment I was looking forward to something happening, especially when the hero finally found his wife, the first time, then nothing.. my anticipated scene I think happened in the first book.
Time jumping again a year later.. this I didn't understand why hero waited so long to find her when all along 'twas easy for him to track her this time, oh my.. I didn't even feel the connection when they saw each other again in Greece.. I'm not into BDSM.. there was quite a bit, so I didn't feel the love and the yearning when they finally got together.. it felt I was reading porn instead by some scenes.. what I found frustrating really was, sex scenes were described in detail but important scenes and events were just left out for me to draw conclusions.
Overall, it felt to me, so much had happened yet it left me feeling lacking as if nothing was happening not until the last few chapters where things got unraveled.. again maybe I should have read the first book or not? .. most things were just narrated or described through internal monologues, instead of actually happening, with regard to this two and other events.. so many chapters past 'til the last few and still I felt so dissatisfied how scenes and issues between the two main characters and mafia families were executed.. there weren't scenes actually but mostly inner thoughts.
Oh I don't know.. this was quite messy to me.. and not to mention the silliness regarding the "Stiletto murders" where twice, hero's internal thought was suspecting or accusing the heroine of having the motive when in fact... I wouldn't spoil this part, but I find this really silly.
When I read my books regardless if they're fiction or whatever genre that take my fancy at the moment, I take them seriously.. I take on the details and I remember them.. so if there are inconsistencies or anything that doesn't add up, I readily notice.. in this book I've found many.. like I said mentioning each would spoil the book for other readers.. as it is, I've mentioned some already.
And yes I didn't like much the main characters mostly the heroine.. and after four years, I couldn't believe the hero would just let her go again, to find the super terror Mafia family by herself, where she could be killed, considering at first he feared for her safety upon discovering the presence of this dangerous ancient Mafia family in Chicago.. I really didn't get the love between this two.. all inner thoughts about how deep their love for each other and yet did opposite things.. and so many inconsistencies, unbelievable and questionable scenarios, they got me dizzy.
But yeah, there's one thing I find intriguing and sexy about the writing style.. first meetings.. first glimpses of main characters of each other.. something that makes you want to devour the book and discover for yourself what more, lies ahead.. and again I was intrigued by Damian and Ivy.. 'hope their story delivers if there's one coming.. I'll be watching out for them.
June 22, 2021
I’m not exactly sure how I feel about this book. There were parts of it that I liked and parts that annoyed me. I really enjoyed the back story for Luna and Nico because I liked seeing them get together but it’s what comes after that bothers me.
After reading Knocked Up by the Beast we know that Luna has been hiding from Nico for years but we don’t know why and we don’t find out until almost the end of this book. The way that it’s written it seems like Nico did this horrible thing that Luna couldn’t live with. And there’s even a little side story that we read about that Luna uses as the reason to leave Nico, even though it’s not the real reason. To me, it feels like that part of the book was added as an afterthought to give Luna the ‘excuse’ she used to leave Nico. When we do find out why Luna left is where I get really annoyed. I feel like if she had just talked to Nico and told him what happened, she wouldn’t have had to leave him.
For the most part I do like Luna. She’s observant, protective, and she knows what she wants. What bothers me about her is that I feel like even though she loves and trusts Nico she didn’t believe in him enough. She didn’t believe that if she went to him that he would be able to protect her family. She could have at least told him the real reason that she felt she had leave. I feel that if Luna had talked to Nico, he would have moved heaven and earth to fix the problem. Nico’s complete and utter devotion to Luna is one of the things that I love most about him. He absolutely refuses to give up on finding his wife and winning her back.
This book was just ok for me. It was a quick and easy read but I didn’t really feel drawn into the story or really invested in it like I was the first book. While I enjoyed it for the most part, it’s not a book that I would reread.
After reading Knocked Up by the Beast we know that Luna has been hiding from Nico for years but we don’t know why and we don’t find out until almost the end of this book. The way that it’s written it seems like Nico did this horrible thing that Luna couldn’t live with. And there’s even a little side story that we read about that Luna uses as the reason to leave Nico, even though it’s not the real reason. To me, it feels like that part of the book was added as an afterthought to give Luna the ‘excuse’ she used to leave Nico. When we do find out why Luna left is where I get really annoyed. I feel like if she had just talked to Nico and told him what happened, she wouldn’t have had to leave him.
For the most part I do like Luna. She’s observant, protective, and she knows what she wants. What bothers me about her is that I feel like even though she loves and trusts Nico she didn’t believe in him enough. She didn’t believe that if she went to him that he would be able to protect her family. She could have at least told him the real reason that she felt she had leave. I feel that if Luna had talked to Nico, he would have moved heaven and earth to fix the problem. Nico’s complete and utter devotion to Luna is one of the things that I love most about him. He absolutely refuses to give up on finding his wife and winning her back.
This book was just ok for me. It was a quick and easy read but I didn’t really feel drawn into the story or really invested in it like I was the first book. While I enjoyed it for the most part, it’s not a book that I would reread.
April 2, 2021
This is the first time I have read a book by this author & I quite enjoyed reading this somewhat dark mafia arranged marriage romance. The plot is extremely intense with some suspenseful situations & there is good world building with outstanding scene descriptions. The characters are well-developed complex individuals with opposing personalities & they each have realistic flaws but actually have good chemistry between them. There is good support from the secondary characters.
It is about: two childhood friends now grownup adults & enemies (Nico Monte) & (Luna Genovese) were basically forced to marry, to ensure that there was peace between their two families while facing another mafia family trying to take over but after a month of marriage Luna leaves & take refuse by Nico’s best friend (Leo Blackwood)
There is: various mafia crime syndicates, rivalry, vendettas, law enforcement, family issues, action, intrigue, suspense, drama, twists & turns, secrets, mystery, deceit, betrayal, threats, danger, enemies, abduction, devious intentions, confrontations, suspicions, warnings, vengeful feelings, memories, emotional turmoil, determination, manipulations, ulterior motives, obsession, complications, compromises, contentment, love, steamy scenes & a well-deserved happy conclusion. I look forward to future books from this author with great anticipation & would definitely recommend this book.
It is about: two childhood friends now grownup adults & enemies (Nico Monte) & (Luna Genovese) were basically forced to marry, to ensure that there was peace between their two families while facing another mafia family trying to take over but after a month of marriage Luna leaves & take refuse by Nico’s best friend (Leo Blackwood)
There is: various mafia crime syndicates, rivalry, vendettas, law enforcement, family issues, action, intrigue, suspense, drama, twists & turns, secrets, mystery, deceit, betrayal, threats, danger, enemies, abduction, devious intentions, confrontations, suspicions, warnings, vengeful feelings, memories, emotional turmoil, determination, manipulations, ulterior motives, obsession, complications, compromises, contentment, love, steamy scenes & a well-deserved happy conclusion. I look forward to future books from this author with great anticipation & would definitely recommend this book.
March 15, 2021
This book is part of the Kingdoms Series that is a fairy-tale based account of the criminal underworld in the city of Chicago, Illinois. This book is a standalone with plenty of danger, action and steamy scenes. If you like mafia romances with a dark twist you'll enjoy this book. This is Nico and Luna's story and he refers to her as his 'little mermaid' They were friends as children until her families empire was taken away and they went into exile. He later finds her and they have an arranged marriage as a way to bring the families back together. She sees another side of him that no one else does but she will never be a pawn away. She's really a lion in lamb's clothing. She runs away, why? This is an amazing book that's hard to put down. The characters are strong, likable and well developed. The story line is intense, full of action, danger and no shortage of dark, steamy scenes. I read an advance copy via Bad Boy Update and voluntarily chose to write a review.
March 21, 2021
This book caught my attention because it mentioned "fairy-tale" retold. I am a sucker for fairy tales retold. This book... I don't know what fairy tale it should be. Maybe it is the Little Mermaid? If so, it is so loosely based, that I see zero resemblance other than hair colour and the fact that Luna likes to swim.
To read the rest of my review, click on the image below to see it on my website.
To read the rest of my review, click on the image below to see it on my website.
January 7, 2026
Lots of spice and drama
This book was ok. There was a lot of jumping around with certain scenes. It felt like some important pieces may have been missing. Overall, not a bad read, just not for me.
This book was ok. There was a lot of jumping around with certain scenes. It felt like some important pieces may have been missing. Overall, not a bad read, just not for me.
March 16, 2021
This is the second book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. Nico always knew that Luna would be his and he won’t let anything stand in his way. This is a fast-paced mafia read with loads of drama, steam and twists and turns. Steamy chemistry and an entertaining read. I really liked it.
March 3, 2024
great series but I’m left with more questions than answers…
The second book in Kingdoms series (fairy tale retellings). This follows Luna Genovese and Nico Monte. You need to read the 1st book in order to follow along with the over all plot of the series, also, there are things revealed in book 1 that may be hard to understand book 2 if you didn’t read it first. This is supposed to be a (VERY) loose retelling of the little mermaid. Each couple has an HEA but the overall plot continues and I am no closer to my answers!!!
Luna and Nico are both from Italian mafia families. Luna’s is in hiding from Nico’s. Their great grandfather’s immigrated to America over 100 years ago and built their empires together as friends. Luna and Nico did grow up as childhood friends, but as all great things, they must come to an end and Nico and Luna’s fathers have some sort of fight that makes both families hate each other now.
***spoilers
Don Monte(Nico’s father) married a woman that was in love with a Genovese chef. Out of respect for her new husband she never had a physical relationship with her lover after they married but she still snuck out to be with him. Don Monte found out, unalived the chef, his wife, and all the Genovese he could find (which was pretty much everyone) because they knew she was still hanging on to that relationship. This was known as the Genovese Massacre.
Nico comes for Luna to talk her into marrying him for a lot of reasons (join families, stop a war, find out who is killing his men) but most importantly he loves her. Luna is hesitant at first but agrees. Both fathers are irritated by the situation but Nico’s father utterly hates the idea.
There is a killer with a stiletto dagger similar to Lunas that is killing Monte men. Specifically Monte men that were involved in the Genovese Massacre. At first Nico and his brother, Armando, think it’s Luna but then she reveals all 5 of her sisters have daggers like hers.
An old family, the Innocenti’s, comes to Chicago with the threat of taking over America. They used to be content with Italy, but now they want all America’s big cities. They were originally spotted in NY so Nico sends Armando to NY to warn the other families and see what he can find out. None of the families want to join their cause, or they just don’t believe Armando.
Armando meets a girl he instantly falls in love with… ITS HAZEL FROM THE FIRST BOOK!!!!!!
They go to an old house the Innocenti’s are staying in and kill all but Stefania (Stefano isn’t there)… Nico gets back and Luna leaves him (she makes him believe it’s because he lied to her about something with the Stiletto Killer - but it’s because Stefania’s brother Stefano came to her and told Luna if he couldn’t have Luna, no one could and she’d better run because if he saw her by Nico’s side again, he’d hurt her sisters. This is why she ran away).
Nico follows Luna to Greece (he always fits her with a tracker one way or another). Luna tells him about their son and then flees to Italy to help track and kill the Innocenti. Ivy meets up with her to help (Ivy is now the Queen of the Blackwood family).
Nico’s father lures him and the detective that helps the family, to a safe house where 10 of their new recruits are dead, presumably by the Stiletto Killer. Nico and Armando’s mom is alive, she is the Stiletto Killer, and Nico helps her, this is why he had blood on his hands the night he met Luna at the lake in the beginning. Veda, (who is not really Veda but an impersonator) is with the dad and happily hanging off his arm. They try to kill them in the house but Armando had a secret door.
Luna and Ivy get caught by the Innocenti men and Ivy has an instant attraction to Damien, a high up in the ranks. Luna begs the men to let Ivy go but Damien made a blood vow to Luna that he would protect her. Damien takes them to the Innocenti Don but they get ambushed along the way by Stafano and Stefania. Stefano shoots the rocky ridge and causes an avalanche of rocks and escape. Luna escapes in an alcove and Damien covers Ivy taking the brunt of the hits. Nico and Armando come to the rescue. Ivy wants Damien to come but he gives her a red pebble (like a pomegranate seed) and tells her they will meet again.
The story ends with Luna and Tommy living with Nico. Hazel and Armando reconcile their relationship and have Kelsey, but it doesn’t give any clue as to why she believed her daughter Kelsey dead or missing…
I still have lots of questions…
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot: 👩🏻💻📑📑📑
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤🖤
Red Flags: 🚩🚩
Kinks: 🫦🫦
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😫🤬😳🥵😍
Ending: 👩🏻❤️👨🏻 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
The second book in Kingdoms series (fairy tale retellings). This follows Luna Genovese and Nico Monte. You need to read the 1st book in order to follow along with the over all plot of the series, also, there are things revealed in book 1 that may be hard to understand book 2 if you didn’t read it first. This is supposed to be a (VERY) loose retelling of the little mermaid. Each couple has an HEA but the overall plot continues and I am no closer to my answers!!!
Luna and Nico are both from Italian mafia families. Luna’s is in hiding from Nico’s. Their great grandfather’s immigrated to America over 100 years ago and built their empires together as friends. Luna and Nico did grow up as childhood friends, but as all great things, they must come to an end and Nico and Luna’s fathers have some sort of fight that makes both families hate each other now.
***spoilers
Don Monte(Nico’s father) married a woman that was in love with a Genovese chef. Out of respect for her new husband she never had a physical relationship with her lover after they married but she still snuck out to be with him. Don Monte found out, unalived the chef, his wife, and all the Genovese he could find (which was pretty much everyone) because they knew she was still hanging on to that relationship. This was known as the Genovese Massacre.
Nico comes for Luna to talk her into marrying him for a lot of reasons (join families, stop a war, find out who is killing his men) but most importantly he loves her. Luna is hesitant at first but agrees. Both fathers are irritated by the situation but Nico’s father utterly hates the idea.
There is a killer with a stiletto dagger similar to Lunas that is killing Monte men. Specifically Monte men that were involved in the Genovese Massacre. At first Nico and his brother, Armando, think it’s Luna but then she reveals all 5 of her sisters have daggers like hers.
An old family, the Innocenti’s, comes to Chicago with the threat of taking over America. They used to be content with Italy, but now they want all America’s big cities. They were originally spotted in NY so Nico sends Armando to NY to warn the other families and see what he can find out. None of the families want to join their cause, or they just don’t believe Armando.
Armando meets a girl he instantly falls in love with… ITS HAZEL FROM THE FIRST BOOK!!!!!!
They go to an old house the Innocenti’s are staying in and kill all but Stefania (Stefano isn’t there)… Nico gets back and Luna leaves him (she makes him believe it’s because he lied to her about something with the Stiletto Killer - but it’s because Stefania’s brother Stefano came to her and told Luna if he couldn’t have Luna, no one could and she’d better run because if he saw her by Nico’s side again, he’d hurt her sisters. This is why she ran away).
Nico follows Luna to Greece (he always fits her with a tracker one way or another). Luna tells him about their son and then flees to Italy to help track and kill the Innocenti. Ivy meets up with her to help (Ivy is now the Queen of the Blackwood family).
Nico’s father lures him and the detective that helps the family, to a safe house where 10 of their new recruits are dead, presumably by the Stiletto Killer. Nico and Armando’s mom is alive, she is the Stiletto Killer, and Nico helps her, this is why he had blood on his hands the night he met Luna at the lake in the beginning. Veda, (who is not really Veda but an impersonator) is with the dad and happily hanging off his arm. They try to kill them in the house but Armando had a secret door.
Luna and Ivy get caught by the Innocenti men and Ivy has an instant attraction to Damien, a high up in the ranks. Luna begs the men to let Ivy go but Damien made a blood vow to Luna that he would protect her. Damien takes them to the Innocenti Don but they get ambushed along the way by Stafano and Stefania. Stefano shoots the rocky ridge and causes an avalanche of rocks and escape. Luna escapes in an alcove and Damien covers Ivy taking the brunt of the hits. Nico and Armando come to the rescue. Ivy wants Damien to come but he gives her a red pebble (like a pomegranate seed) and tells her they will meet again.
The story ends with Luna and Tommy living with Nico. Hazel and Armando reconcile their relationship and have Kelsey, but it doesn’t give any clue as to why she believed her daughter Kelsey dead or missing…
I still have lots of questions…
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot: 👩🏻💻📑📑📑
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤🖤
Red Flags: 🚩🚩
Kinks: 🫦🫦
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😫🤬😳🥵😍
Ending: 👩🏻❤️👨🏻 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
March 30, 2021
I was really intrigued with the premise of this book. I really enjoy the mafia romance tropes, so I immediately requested to read this.
That being said, I wasn't too interested in it when I began reading. The beginning of the book progressed a bit too quickly for me. I felt that the characters, especially Luna, needed more time before making the decision that she did. I felt that the character the author set up wouldn't have made the decision so rashly, though I understand why giving some of the background that the author provided between the two characters. There was one scene in particular that I was really shocked by, considering Luna's view on said topic, so I wasn't expecting her to say it so fast, and without any real... I guess, emotion?
I think that was what I was lacking. There was so much instant stuff going on between the characters and the way it was portrayed, I guess I just couldn't get into it or become emotionally involved with them.
A lot of the what was happening confused me. This author's writing style is not one that I have read before, and I can say now that it isn't really for me. I was confused in a lot of parts of the novel, because the characters were going on about something that I had no information about, or they came to a decision and I didn't understand why they came to that one in particular.
Now, even though this book is not what I was expecting, and the style isn't something that I'm familiar with, I did enjoy how everything came together in the end. There were no loose ends, though another story is set up for two of the characters towards the end, which I appreciated. Those two gave me more feels than Nico and Luna did, so I may read their story. I'm still not sure.
The steamy parts were good enough that I wasn't cringing, but again, I was missing the emotional tether. I used to be a fan of insta-love, but as I've grown and matured as a reader, I've learned that I prefer a storyline with more give and take.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
That being said, I wasn't too interested in it when I began reading. The beginning of the book progressed a bit too quickly for me. I felt that the characters, especially Luna, needed more time before making the decision that she did. I felt that the character the author set up wouldn't have made the decision so rashly, though I understand why giving some of the background that the author provided between the two characters. There was one scene in particular that I was really shocked by, considering Luna's view on said topic, so I wasn't expecting her to say it so fast, and without any real... I guess, emotion?
I think that was what I was lacking. There was so much instant stuff going on between the characters and the way it was portrayed, I guess I just couldn't get into it or become emotionally involved with them.
A lot of the what was happening confused me. This author's writing style is not one that I have read before, and I can say now that it isn't really for me. I was confused in a lot of parts of the novel, because the characters were going on about something that I had no information about, or they came to a decision and I didn't understand why they came to that one in particular.
Now, even though this book is not what I was expecting, and the style isn't something that I'm familiar with, I did enjoy how everything came together in the end. There were no loose ends, though another story is set up for two of the characters towards the end, which I appreciated. Those two gave me more feels than Nico and Luna did, so I may read their story. I'm still not sure.
The steamy parts were good enough that I wasn't cringing, but again, I was missing the emotional tether. I used to be a fan of insta-love, but as I've grown and matured as a reader, I've learned that I prefer a storyline with more give and take.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 24, 2021
"It's going to be our secret, isn't it? The things I do to you at night are wicked, but you drive me to it."
In the story, we meet Luna and Nico, both are from different crime families; however, Luna's family was massacred by Nico's. Love the Forbidden Element
Luna and Nico grew up together. They were very close childhood friends until all hell broke loose between the Italian crime families. Nico and Luna always had a special connection, and although they were apart for 20 years when they reconnected, hmmmmm my my my addictive.
The first part of the story (The Past) is entertaining, intriguing and flows well. It hooks you, and you can not put down the book. The chemistry between Nico and Luna is undeniable as they revive old connections. The mystery and suspense surrounding the most powerful mafia family in the world gave me chills.
The second part (The Present)was confusing and disjointed. I was sorely disappointed. Everything is great between Nico and Luna, and fast-forward three years, issues have not been resolved, and Nico and Luna's marriage is in shambles.
This is not a dark mafia romance, so if you like reading this trope but don't like them too dark with triggers, you will enjoy this book. I absolutely love Nico. When I think of a mafia man, he's what I envision, ruthless, possessive, devoted, protective, domineering and resilient. Luna is protective of her family, sweet, loyal, strong, understands sacrifices, doesn't hold grudges and is afraid to love Nico wholeheartedly.
I enjoyed this story, but I didn't love it. The characters were great, the plot was terrific, the story development left me confused.
ARC reviewed in exchange for an honest.
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In the story, we meet Luna and Nico, both are from different crime families; however, Luna's family was massacred by Nico's. Love the Forbidden Element
Luna and Nico grew up together. They were very close childhood friends until all hell broke loose between the Italian crime families. Nico and Luna always had a special connection, and although they were apart for 20 years when they reconnected, hmmmmm my my my addictive.
The first part of the story (The Past) is entertaining, intriguing and flows well. It hooks you, and you can not put down the book. The chemistry between Nico and Luna is undeniable as they revive old connections. The mystery and suspense surrounding the most powerful mafia family in the world gave me chills.
The second part (The Present)was confusing and disjointed. I was sorely disappointed. Everything is great between Nico and Luna, and fast-forward three years, issues have not been resolved, and Nico and Luna's marriage is in shambles.
This is not a dark mafia romance, so if you like reading this trope but don't like them too dark with triggers, you will enjoy this book. I absolutely love Nico. When I think of a mafia man, he's what I envision, ruthless, possessive, devoted, protective, domineering and resilient. Luna is protective of her family, sweet, loyal, strong, understands sacrifices, doesn't hold grudges and is afraid to love Nico wholeheartedly.
I enjoyed this story, but I didn't love it. The characters were great, the plot was terrific, the story development left me confused.
ARC reviewed in exchange for an honest.
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https://www.facebook.com/book.kraves
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March 15, 2021
The addition starts with the book cover….yeah…yeah…yeah don’t judge a book by its cover they say ….well we all do it and this one here it is the scratch to your itch or better yet the filling to your oreos! Speaking of filling…..wait, that’s for later. Within the first chapters you get the panoramic view of whom you’re dealing with!
Bad boy….check
Bod boy’s crazy brother/friend…check
Bad boy’s Kryptonie…check ….check and check
By the time you’ve figured out who is who and how deep hate can run, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter!
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
Talk about gritty with twists and turns, drama, suspense, danger, murder, secrets …more secrets that all come to the light. Nico is part of the Monte Mafia Family and Luna is the daughter of the Genovese Mafia family. At one point Luna and Nico were best friends when they were growing up however, when the fall out happened between the two families due an arranged marriage gone wrong. After the massacre Luna went into hiding with her family however, Nico never forgot Luna and even at such a young age he knew she was his and he was hers nothing would get in the way of that. When the two family decide to try and work together, she is offered up in marriage to Nico, she is none to happy about that at all. Nico gets what he wants regardless of how she feels about the whole situation but will it work, will she give in to the intense attraction, chemistry, their story starts out one way but ends up another way now the question is will that way keep them together and can they find their own HEA?
Bad boy….check
Bod boy’s crazy brother/friend…check
Bad boy’s Kryptonie…check ….check and check
By the time you’ve figured out who is who and how deep hate can run, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter!
Can’t say I didn’t warn you.
Talk about gritty with twists and turns, drama, suspense, danger, murder, secrets …more secrets that all come to the light. Nico is part of the Monte Mafia Family and Luna is the daughter of the Genovese Mafia family. At one point Luna and Nico were best friends when they were growing up however, when the fall out happened between the two families due an arranged marriage gone wrong. After the massacre Luna went into hiding with her family however, Nico never forgot Luna and even at such a young age he knew she was his and he was hers nothing would get in the way of that. When the two family decide to try and work together, she is offered up in marriage to Nico, she is none to happy about that at all. Nico gets what he wants regardless of how she feels about the whole situation but will it work, will she give in to the intense attraction, chemistry, their story starts out one way but ends up another way now the question is will that way keep them together and can they find their own HEA?
March 9, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book is part of the Kingdoms Series that is a fairytale based of the criminal Underworld in the city of Chicago Illinois.This book has plenty of danger, action and steamy scenes. If you like mafia romances with a dark twist you’ll enjoy this read.
🧜🏼♀️
We first meet Nico and Luna in book one Owned by the Beast and Luna had been in hiding for 3 years at Blackwood Estates with the help and protection of Leo Blackwood.
🧜🏼♀️
This is Nico and Luna’s story and he refers to her as his “Little Mermaid” . They were friends when they were children until her family’s empire was taken away and they had to choose between fleeing or death, so they chose to flee and hide away. He later finds her and they have an arranged marriage as a way to bring the families back together. She sees a different side of him that no one else does. She is a lion in lamb’s clothing. She runs away, why? Well you will just have to read to find out.
🧜🏼♀️
This book was hard to put down, the characters are strong, likable and well developed. The storyline is intense, full of action, danger and no shortage of dark, steamy scenes either. I loved the twists and turns of this book. So many of them I didn't expect! I love how Luna found her strength to what needed to be done to protect her family. I won’t give anything away but Luna is a true heroine in her own story.
🧜🏼♀️
Thank you again Aria for another amazing mafia romance story with another one of my favorite fairytale’s The Little Mermaid twist.
🧜🏼♀️
Now I am excited to read book 3 and dive into Ivy and Damian’s story!
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book is part of the Kingdoms Series that is a fairytale based of the criminal Underworld in the city of Chicago Illinois.This book has plenty of danger, action and steamy scenes. If you like mafia romances with a dark twist you’ll enjoy this read.
🧜🏼♀️
We first meet Nico and Luna in book one Owned by the Beast and Luna had been in hiding for 3 years at Blackwood Estates with the help and protection of Leo Blackwood.
🧜🏼♀️
This is Nico and Luna’s story and he refers to her as his “Little Mermaid” . They were friends when they were children until her family’s empire was taken away and they had to choose between fleeing or death, so they chose to flee and hide away. He later finds her and they have an arranged marriage as a way to bring the families back together. She sees a different side of him that no one else does. She is a lion in lamb’s clothing. She runs away, why? Well you will just have to read to find out.
🧜🏼♀️
This book was hard to put down, the characters are strong, likable and well developed. The storyline is intense, full of action, danger and no shortage of dark, steamy scenes either. I loved the twists and turns of this book. So many of them I didn't expect! I love how Luna found her strength to what needed to be done to protect her family. I won’t give anything away but Luna is a true heroine in her own story.
🧜🏼♀️
Thank you again Aria for another amazing mafia romance story with another one of my favorite fairytale’s The Little Mermaid twist.
🧜🏼♀️
Now I am excited to read book 3 and dive into Ivy and Damian’s story!
June 1, 2021
OH WOW..... seriously loved this book. Nico and Luna were such a perfect match.... The chemistry, the angst and tension... it was just mind blowing from the very beginning of this book.
I enjoyed book 1, like alot. And when we got to met Nico and Luna in that book they did intrigued me and in the back of my mind I was wondering about their back story.
Well nothing could have prepared me for their story. I think these two would have to be among my favourite couples. They just had that IT factor and it was so enjoyable to read their story.
Nico was just a honey and gentle and gentlemanly, I think I was even sighing when he said or did something swoon worthy. I was right beside Luna when her heart fluttered lol. Sappy I know.
I loved the pace of this book. Yes lots was happening but it didn't feel rushed or that we missed out on anything along the way. If anything it had me thinking about two other couples and how Kelsey came to be where she was. Very intriguing. The web Aria weaves!!
Again I loved the multiple POV and reading from both main characters POV just takes this story to a whole new level.
Aria has created an amazing second book to this already amazing series. I do hope that Armando and Hazel plus Ivy and Mr dark and mysterious get their books as I would sign up right now for them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed book 1, like alot. And when we got to met Nico and Luna in that book they did intrigued me and in the back of my mind I was wondering about their back story.
Well nothing could have prepared me for their story. I think these two would have to be among my favourite couples. They just had that IT factor and it was so enjoyable to read their story.
Nico was just a honey and gentle and gentlemanly, I think I was even sighing when he said or did something swoon worthy. I was right beside Luna when her heart fluttered lol. Sappy I know.
I loved the pace of this book. Yes lots was happening but it didn't feel rushed or that we missed out on anything along the way. If anything it had me thinking about two other couples and how Kelsey came to be where she was. Very intriguing. The web Aria weaves!!
Again I loved the multiple POV and reading from both main characters POV just takes this story to a whole new level.
Aria has created an amazing second book to this already amazing series. I do hope that Armando and Hazel plus Ivy and Mr dark and mysterious get their books as I would sign up right now for them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 17, 2021
I really was confused in some parts but of course they just kept us in suspense. While I was reading the book I was always thinking about the synopsis and waiting for her to retaliate like it said there but it just never came as a grand thing.
I really liked that they had a bond Nico and Luna, that they were best friends before they were husband and wife. I liked how the grandmother always knew that they were meant to be together.
I also liked his way of taking care of her.
What I didn’t understand was the break for the 3 years that they were separated but I didn’t like that they didn’t tell us why she left until the book was over because it wasn’t something that I understood and when they mentioned what she “saw” that it was what made her run and that he was devastated about it and couldn’t find her for 3 years until he found her and she still didn’t want to see him, at the end when they said why she ran I understood.
I really liked the way that he always had her necklace in his wrist.
What left me confused is that in all of the books that I have read the conflict that they face they always solve it but not in this case which I really didn’t like.
I liked how the author introduced the story of Ivy and how he was really protective and she was defiant against it but most importantly the blood pact that he hid that he will always protect her and he did and I want to know what happens next!!
I really liked that they had a bond Nico and Luna, that they were best friends before they were husband and wife. I liked how the grandmother always knew that they were meant to be together.
I also liked his way of taking care of her.
What I didn’t understand was the break for the 3 years that they were separated but I didn’t like that they didn’t tell us why she left until the book was over because it wasn’t something that I understood and when they mentioned what she “saw” that it was what made her run and that he was devastated about it and couldn’t find her for 3 years until he found her and she still didn’t want to see him, at the end when they said why she ran I understood.
I really liked the way that he always had her necklace in his wrist.
What left me confused is that in all of the books that I have read the conflict that they face they always solve it but not in this case which I really didn’t like.
I liked how the author introduced the story of Ivy and how he was really protective and she was defiant against it but most importantly the blood pact that he hid that he will always protect her and he did and I want to know what happens next!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2021
Luna’s family has been living a life in hiding since the day the Monte’s betrayed them and killed so many of their most loyal men. From then on, her family has been living on borrowed time, constantly afraid of being found. What Luna didn’t know was that someone knew where she was all along.
Nico was the less favored of his father’s son. But when he hears that his father is sending out a man to kill Luna, he steps in and takes the assigned kill. Luna was different. She was his. Always had been, whether she knew it or not.
I am a big fan of dark mafia stories, so when I saw this one I jumped on it. Aria R. Blue is a new-to-me author. I will be checking out more of her stories, starting with Book 1, Knocked Up By the Beast, of the Kingdom series. While you do not need to read Book 1, I would recommend you do so. After finding out that this story overlaps with events in the 1st, I feel like I am missing huge chunks of the story. I love the characters that Aria has created. Everything is so complex and interwoven (which is why Book 1 is so necessary, I think). Even the secondary characters have their own stories within the story! I will say that I hope a number of them get their own book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Nico was the less favored of his father’s son. But when he hears that his father is sending out a man to kill Luna, he steps in and takes the assigned kill. Luna was different. She was his. Always had been, whether she knew it or not.
I am a big fan of dark mafia stories, so when I saw this one I jumped on it. Aria R. Blue is a new-to-me author. I will be checking out more of her stories, starting with Book 1, Knocked Up By the Beast, of the Kingdom series. While you do not need to read Book 1, I would recommend you do so. After finding out that this story overlaps with events in the 1st, I feel like I am missing huge chunks of the story. I love the characters that Aria has created. Everything is so complex and interwoven (which is why Book 1 is so necessary, I think). Even the secondary characters have their own stories within the story! I will say that I hope a number of them get their own book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 1, 2021
I am LOVING Aria’s fairy tale series with a mafia twist. She keeps just enough of the plot to match the fairy tale but changes up everything else to write an amazing mafia dark romance.
I LOVED the story of Nico and Luna! These two were a match made in the ocean! Having known each other as children, their hearts were already meant for one another. When a massacre tears their two mafia families apart, they don’t see each other for twenty years. Now older and reunited, Nico is determined to have Luna as his wife.
He arranged a marriage with her father because of a new family threatening to tear them both apart. Luckily it’s really not something that Luna is opposed to even if she is angry about being sold to the enemy. There are lots of twists and turns as they fight to maintain dominance. At some point Luna hides away from Nico leaving him to search endlessly for her.
I loved the twists in this book. So many of them I didn’t expect! I also loved how Luna finds her strength to do what needs to be done to protect her family. I don’t want to give anything away but Luna is definitely a heroine in her own story! You have to check out this steamy mafia book and it’s amazing characters!!
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I LOVED the story of Nico and Luna! These two were a match made in the ocean! Having known each other as children, their hearts were already meant for one another. When a massacre tears their two mafia families apart, they don’t see each other for twenty years. Now older and reunited, Nico is determined to have Luna as his wife.
He arranged a marriage with her father because of a new family threatening to tear them both apart. Luckily it’s really not something that Luna is opposed to even if she is angry about being sold to the enemy. There are lots of twists and turns as they fight to maintain dominance. At some point Luna hides away from Nico leaving him to search endlessly for her.
I loved the twists in this book. So many of them I didn’t expect! I also loved how Luna finds her strength to do what needs to be done to protect her family. I don’t want to give anything away but Luna is definitely a heroine in her own story! You have to check out this steamy mafia book and it’s amazing characters!!
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 5, 2021
Luna and Nico grew up together until his father slaughtered her family in a massacre. But they never got over their feelings toward each other and when an old family comes back to take over territories, they make a move to merge the two families together to become stronger. But is this the right move, or will it break them even farther?
Luna and Nico are a sweet couple. They grew up together and they've had a relationship that had a lot of hills to face. The first part of the book was done very well, and gave a us a emotional story of two people who have so much against them, but still come together anyways. They have some good scenes together and their chemistry is believable. The author did a fantastic job with giving us a story that pulls us in and holds us.
The second part didn't really work for me. Luna runs away from Nico, and hides away in his best friends home with their son. The rival family is still out there building up their empire, and Nico is searching for Luna. The reasons why Luna left Nico didn't make sense and the fact that we left part one with them happy together made the second part make even less sense. It felt like this was done purely for the drama appeal in the book, and it could've been done better to make it mesh with the story.
Luna and Nico are a sweet couple. They grew up together and they've had a relationship that had a lot of hills to face. The first part of the book was done very well, and gave a us a emotional story of two people who have so much against them, but still come together anyways. They have some good scenes together and their chemistry is believable. The author did a fantastic job with giving us a story that pulls us in and holds us.
The second part didn't really work for me. Luna runs away from Nico, and hides away in his best friends home with their son. The rival family is still out there building up their empire, and Nico is searching for Luna. The reasons why Luna left Nico didn't make sense and the fact that we left part one with them happy together made the second part make even less sense. It felt like this was done purely for the drama appeal in the book, and it could've been done better to make it mesh with the story.
March 16, 2021
Fast-Paced, Easy to Read, and HOT!
This is my first novel by Aria R. Blue and it was filled with wit, romance, adventure and really hot, hot scenes between Nico and Luna, childhood friends of two children from Mafia families who enter a marriage arranged to mutually benefit one another, in part to repair the wrongs committed by Nico’s father against Luna’s family and give them protection from further harm, and to unite all of the mafia families against their common enemy, the Innocenti’s, the most powerful of the Mafia families from Italy who are trying to encroach on the American Mafia families holdings. Since Nico’s father’s attempts to wipe out Luna’s family, Luna, her grandmother, her father and her five sisters have been in hiding, living life quietly and inconspicuously so no further harm comes to them from Nico’s ruthless father!
Sold to the Enemy had it all…it was fast paced, easy to read, plenty of intrigue and suspense, and the scenes between Nico and Luna made me keep a glass of ice next to me the entire reading! Ms. Blue is a gifted writer who knows how to keep her reader glued to the page! I cannot wait for her next novel to come out!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is my first novel by Aria R. Blue and it was filled with wit, romance, adventure and really hot, hot scenes between Nico and Luna, childhood friends of two children from Mafia families who enter a marriage arranged to mutually benefit one another, in part to repair the wrongs committed by Nico’s father against Luna’s family and give them protection from further harm, and to unite all of the mafia families against their common enemy, the Innocenti’s, the most powerful of the Mafia families from Italy who are trying to encroach on the American Mafia families holdings. Since Nico’s father’s attempts to wipe out Luna’s family, Luna, her grandmother, her father and her five sisters have been in hiding, living life quietly and inconspicuously so no further harm comes to them from Nico’s ruthless father!
Sold to the Enemy had it all…it was fast paced, easy to read, plenty of intrigue and suspense, and the scenes between Nico and Luna made me keep a glass of ice next to me the entire reading! Ms. Blue is a gifted writer who knows how to keep her reader glued to the page! I cannot wait for her next novel to come out!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sold to the Enemy caught my eye. I love mafia books and a twist on a classic or fairy tale is always a draw. This book promised both. The beginning of the books set up the story and gave us character backgrounds. The plot after Nico Monte and Luna Genovese marry really lost me. I lost track and was left wondering why the characters were doing what they were doing. New characters (or rather lesser characters in this story) are brought in but again it felt disjointed. Leo and Belle are the main characters in the first book of the series as well as his book. I may be wrong but I think part of that book was running concurrently with this story. I like the characters and especially the villains. They held a lot of promise but I don't enjoy spending time trying to figure out what happened and why. It really detracts from the story.
I will give another book by Aria R. Blue a try. This is just my opinion and maybe it is just me that couldn't find the roadmap of the story. There is heat, action and mystery. Everything to make a great romance is there but it just didn't come together for me.
Sold to the Enemy caught my eye. I love mafia books and a twist on a classic or fairy tale is always a draw. This book promised both. The beginning of the books set up the story and gave us character backgrounds. The plot after Nico Monte and Luna Genovese marry really lost me. I lost track and was left wondering why the characters were doing what they were doing. New characters (or rather lesser characters in this story) are brought in but again it felt disjointed. Leo and Belle are the main characters in the first book of the series as well as his book. I may be wrong but I think part of that book was running concurrently with this story. I like the characters and especially the villains. They held a lot of promise but I don't enjoy spending time trying to figure out what happened and why. It really detracts from the story.
I will give another book by Aria R. Blue a try. This is just my opinion and maybe it is just me that couldn't find the roadmap of the story. There is heat, action and mystery. Everything to make a great romance is there but it just didn't come together for me.
August 13, 2021
Wow!
I adored book 1 - Kocked up by the Beast, which is Belle and Leo's story. We also get to see Nico and Luna. I was floored to see that this one was their story.
We start before the events of book one and that had me wondering how the story would work - would it be successful at bridging what we already know? I can say it definitely did.
There is so much in this story - we get to see more of the characters from book 1 and delve deeper into Nico and Luna's relationship. The reason she ran is heart breaking. Their relationship being from different mafia families is very Romeo and Juliet, except there is a really good reason for Luna's family to hate Nico's.
Luna and Nico are like two planets that keep getting sucked back into each other's orbit and fireworks ignite when they do.
I was blown away by how the events of book 1 continued to help build the story of book 2 by shining new light onwhat we thought happened. I was blown away by the real reason Belle's father was at Leo's house.
I could not anticipate the ending and was blown away. I am so excited for more.
I received an advanced copy of this story and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I adored book 1 - Kocked up by the Beast, which is Belle and Leo's story. We also get to see Nico and Luna. I was floored to see that this one was their story.
We start before the events of book one and that had me wondering how the story would work - would it be successful at bridging what we already know? I can say it definitely did.
There is so much in this story - we get to see more of the characters from book 1 and delve deeper into Nico and Luna's relationship. The reason she ran is heart breaking. Their relationship being from different mafia families is very Romeo and Juliet, except there is a really good reason for Luna's family to hate Nico's.
Luna and Nico are like two planets that keep getting sucked back into each other's orbit and fireworks ignite when they do.
I was blown away by how the events of book 1 continued to help build the story of book 2 by shining new light onwhat we thought happened. I was blown away by the real reason Belle's father was at Leo's house.
I could not anticipate the ending and was blown away. I am so excited for more.
I received an advanced copy of this story and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
March 16, 2021
Ok, so I didn't realize this was the second book in the series until now. Maybe if I'd read book 1 first the large gaps in the storyline wouldn't have left me feeling so lost. I like that the MCs were best friends as children They were separated after the Monte family killed most of the Genovese family and left Luna and her sisters on the run. After the massacre, their father keep them sheltered, practically imprisoned. But when Nico finds Luna again, he's determined to keep her at his side. He takes her innocence, then her father forces them to marry-for a price, of course. Then comes the holes in the story where it's 3 years later and they're separated without a reason why, then backtrack in the story to explain a few things. I don't know, I just got confused by the jumbled storyline. Overall I did like the story once everything was clearly explained.
I received a free copy of this book through BookSirens. The views and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own and left voluntarily.
I received a free copy of this book through BookSirens. The views and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own and left voluntarily.
April 7, 2021
Smoking hot, on the edge of your seat love story for the ages. Nico and Luna knew they were destined in childhood, even though their families became enemies. The chemistry between these two is off the charts from the very start, and does not let up. They both are torn internally over their honor, their hearts, their families and what is worth fighting for. This book takes you on a wild ride from Chicago to New York then to Greece and Italy and keeps you guessing to the very end. The hairpin twists and turns in this book will leave with an excellent book hangover. I found myself desperate to know why Luna made the decisions she did and was thrown for a loop when the truth finally came out. I sure do hope this is a series, I want to read more of these high powered families and their dangerous drama. A lot of romance books can be predictable and Sold to the Enemy is anything but. Really enjoyed this read and will look for more books by this author!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 18, 2021
I like the fact that the story builds the relationship between Luna and Nico. The relationship reveals secrets and facts that we learn and discover throughout the book. There are twists and turns. The book jumps a lot and skips scenes where I had to reread to make sure that I did not miss anything. I love how their love for each other grows from childhood and how Nico is so protective and possessive he is towards Luna. At the same time, we learn more about Luna and how she adapts to her craving of freedom while being in the relationship with Nico. I understand the need for the time jump in the second part of the story but it does get confusing because it continues to jump here and there. It doesn't really finish where the chapter ends and another begins. I would have liked to know more on the development behind her leaving Nico.
It was a good read, but it didn't really hold my interest towards 55% percent of reading the book. I was able to finish reading to find out the HEA and it was okay.
It was a good read, but it didn't really hold my interest towards 55% percent of reading the book. I was able to finish reading to find out the HEA and it was okay.
March 18, 2021
Sold to the Enemy: A Mafia Arranged Marriage Romance by Aria R. Blue is an intriguing,captivating,emotional and steamy filled with action,suspense,twist and turns to put you on edge while reading.;a romantic suspence story of Nico and Luna..grew up together to the mob family,but once friends with the family becomes mortal enemy when a tragic event happened to wash up almost the entire family of Luna ashamed and without anything except the rest of the family.. but Nico and Luna is like magnet they always find themselves in the end they need to get married to save their family from the biggest and notorious and from old family hunting them down to rule.but their love is doomed from the start because someone is doing everyhting to seperate them but as the saying goes,love conquers all but they need to sacrifice some to get their HEA
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2021
I'm pretty sure that there is a magical incantation or fairy dust layered in her books, because in seriously can't put them down or focus on anything else until I'm done with the entire book! After effects are I want more!!! I want to read Hazel and Armondos story, and Ivy and damion...Yes please!!!! I seriously can't wait to see what happens next, this story leaves you with so many questions. Honestly probably could have added another couple of chapters to see how these two reconnect and how Tommy works into it all.
Overall, seriously love it. Should come with a warning of "do not read during work week" and " dont start before bed because you won't sleep tonight if you do"! I honestly can't praise this book enough. There's just something about it that keeps you Enchanted until the very end. What does the traveler have up her sleeves next?
I recieved an arc and voluntarily leave a honest review
Overall, seriously love it. Should come with a warning of "do not read during work week" and " dont start before bed because you won't sleep tonight if you do"! I honestly can't praise this book enough. There's just something about it that keeps you Enchanted until the very end. What does the traveler have up her sleeves next?
I recieved an arc and voluntarily leave a honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2021
This story ended too soon, way to soon. 🤣
I was left wanting more!!!! 😍
We first saw Nico and Luna on Knocked Up By The Beast (Leo & Belle’s story) and it wasn’t pretty! To tell the true I was kind of siding with Nico to a point. I was not happy with Luna’s choices, but it only made me wanting to find out more from this characters.
And oh my ghosh!!!!!! I was not prepared, this story was nothing what I thought it will be.
IT WAS SO MUCH BETTER!!!!!!!!
I loved all the twists the story kept throwing! 😳
The biggest one for me was Hazel’s!!!!
OMG!!!! Didn’t see that one coming.
I loved how everything was interconnected.
Again, we see Hazel’s character on KUBTB, so if you haven’t read it you really should.
I’m a little bummed that Hazel didn’t get her own story but she gets her HEA, so I’m happy for her and *no spoilers* 🤣🤣🤣
And I’m hoping Ivy’s story is next..... I mean...... Ms. Aria, all u left Ivy was with a pebble!!!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣
I was left wanting more!!!! 😍
We first saw Nico and Luna on Knocked Up By The Beast (Leo & Belle’s story) and it wasn’t pretty! To tell the true I was kind of siding with Nico to a point. I was not happy with Luna’s choices, but it only made me wanting to find out more from this characters.
And oh my ghosh!!!!!! I was not prepared, this story was nothing what I thought it will be.
IT WAS SO MUCH BETTER!!!!!!!!
I loved all the twists the story kept throwing! 😳
The biggest one for me was Hazel’s!!!!
OMG!!!! Didn’t see that one coming.
I loved how everything was interconnected.
Again, we see Hazel’s character on KUBTB, so if you haven’t read it you really should.
I’m a little bummed that Hazel didn’t get her own story but she gets her HEA, so I’m happy for her and *no spoilers* 🤣🤣🤣
And I’m hoping Ivy’s story is next..... I mean...... Ms. Aria, all u left Ivy was with a pebble!!!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣
March 24, 2021
Did you read Knocked Up By The Beast? This is where we were first introduced to this fated couple (Nico & Luna). I promise you that everything Ms. Blue publishes is exquisitely designed and addicting.
Nico and Luna, aka his 'Little Mermaid' are heating things up in Chicago and you are not going to want to miss out. This sexy & steamy, albeit dramatic, fairytale like romance is full of irresistible passion as well as a wide-range of drama/intrigue. There is a past between these two families and now a planned marriage? Should you like Mafia romance, then I am positive this is the release for you. While it can certainly be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the first publication as well.
I was beyond fortunate to have requested an advanced reader's copy of Sold To The Enemy, from The Bad Boy Update, in exchange for my honest and voluntarily given opinion. Trust that this is a must read romance.
Nico and Luna, aka his 'Little Mermaid' are heating things up in Chicago and you are not going to want to miss out. This sexy & steamy, albeit dramatic, fairytale like romance is full of irresistible passion as well as a wide-range of drama/intrigue. There is a past between these two families and now a planned marriage? Should you like Mafia romance, then I am positive this is the release for you. While it can certainly be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the first publication as well.
I was beyond fortunate to have requested an advanced reader's copy of Sold To The Enemy, from The Bad Boy Update, in exchange for my honest and voluntarily given opinion. Trust that this is a must read romance.
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