Stolen Soul

Ruthless Revenge #2

by Kristen Luciani

He put his ring on my finger and a knife through my heart...

Massimo Marrone is pure evil disguised by ripped muscles and a gorgeous face.
His dark secrets and blackened heart have turned him into a monster before my eyes.
And I’ve become his prey.

He promised me protection and committed the worst betrayal with his lies,
Breaking my heart in the process.
Because Massimo is no white knight.
He’s a ruthless mafia prince who is determined to destroy me at all costs.

Now I’m being forced to wear his ring and be paraded around as his princess as a show of power and strength to our enemies.
Or else.
But I’m nobody’s trophy.
I refuse to be anyone’s pawn.
And Massimo will never own me.

I repeat those words to myself every time he appears in my bedroom to punish me for not being his dutiful fiancé.
My mind screams the words with every smack of his palm, with every brain melting kiss.
Still, he commands my body with his rough touch and dirty, steamy promises.

I resist his devious advances but just being near him makes my entire body sizzle with desire.
And I find myself craving him more and more.

When a near-tragedy forces me to trust the man who stole my life to protect it, I have a choice to make.
But how much can you really trust the devil?
And will he make me submit to him as payment?

STOLEN SOUL is the explosive second book in the RUTHLESS REVENGE trilogy by USA Today Bestselling author Kristen Luciani and a continuation of Massimo and Kristina's story. It's an Age-Gap, Forced Marriage, Secret Identity Dark Mafia Romance that fans of Zoe Blake and Nicole Fox are sure to enjoy! This epic family saga ends with a guaranteed HEA in EVIL EMPIRE. It is not a standalone.

Publisher's Note: STOLEN SOUL contains explicit and mature content and graphic violence that some readers might find offensive and/or triggering.

Genres: Romance, Mafia Romance, Dark Romance

296 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 8, 2022

About the author

Kristen Luciani is a USA Today bestselling romance author, momtrepreneur, and a beauty product junkie with a penchant for stilettos, Silicon Valley, plunging necklines and grapefruit martinis. As a deep-rooted romantic who prefers juicy drama to fill the lives of anyone other than her, she tried her hand at creating a world of enchantment, sensuality, and intrigue, finally uncovering her true passion. No pun intended…

***FREE BOOK OFFER!*** Click here to get a free copy of my MAYHEM!
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Reviews

[Abstract ♥ Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS



Star Rating : 4/5 Stars

POV : Dual

Cliffhanger : Yes

Hero : Massimo

Heroine : Kristina

Pace of the story : Moderate

Angst Rating : 3/10

Heat Rating : 4/10

Overall Opinion :
I am loving this trilogy so much! The dark romance is addicting and as a lover of second chance romance,this Erie's is good for me.

The characters are amazing and so is the storyline. This is the first series I am reading by this author and I will be continuing this one. I am not very hooked or crazy but the cliffhangers and suspense keeps me reading every book 🤣🤣

Recommending this trilogy to all the dark romance loving people. If themes like Arranged marriage and second chances are something you dig then pick this one up definitely!

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[Florence . · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved how this book just ramped up the events and stakes of book 1 and it gave me everything I loved in book 1, but with even more force. This book was just so entertaining and I had the best time reading it.

I loved seeing their love story and their feelings develop through all of the chaos of their lives and how they dealt with it.

I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Misty Schott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will they get their HEA?

This is book two in the Ruthless Revenge trilogy and things are getting out of control. With her parents gone and the secrets piling up, Kristina doesn't know who to trust. Now she's being forced to marry Massimo, which just so happens to be the son of Savio a man she definitely doesn't trust. This book ends on a huge cliffhanger and I'm looking forward to book three which is the conclusion of Massimo and Kristina's story.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this trilogy and must be read in order for best enjoyment. Massimo and Kristina’s story continues with Kristina trying to find out who murdered her parents and wants her and her sisters dead as well. Kristina also discovers who Massimo really is and hates him. This is a fast paced read with loads of drama, suspense and twists and turns. Great characters with lots of depth and a story that draws you in from beginning to end. I loved it.

[PennyWise 24 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kristen Luciani hit the nail on the head with this series again! "Stolen Soul" is the second book in the "Ruthless Revenge" trilogy and the second series I have read by her. The first was the "Reckless Reign" trilogy featuring Kyla and Patty's story. This trilogy gives us Massimo and Kristina's story. You must read this trilogy in order, or nothing will make sense.

"Stolen Soul" is a high-impact, high-heat (eyeball sweating) mafia mystery/romance that will keep you guessing until the last word in the final chapter. Fortunately or unfortunately (depending on how much your heart can handle), Luciani has a way of penning her story arcs where the reader could think they have the mystery figured out. But then another kink or wrench gets thrown into the mix, and there's a whole new mystery to unfold. There were so many times when I was sure I had figured out the story's direction, and then another unknown happened, causing me to rethink everything.

The second novel in this trilogy picks up where the first leaves off (thankfully!). At the end of the first, someone whisks Kristina off in a hospital parking lot against her will. And yes - I'm sorry! I'm not trying to spoil anything for anyone, but that cliffhanger gave me slight heart palpitations. Plus- this is all after discovering that HUGE SECRET at the end of the first book, which caused her to run off in the first place. This blowup finally led Massimo to pull his head out of his hindquarters and realize that he's got heavy feelings for Kristina. However, this major secret will create a massive divide between the two that will take a lot of work to close back up. And now Savio wants Kristina's inherited empire more than anything. Naturally, her disdain for Massimo will make what Savio wants difficult, but he's threatening the lives of people she loves, so she has no choice but to deal with it with dignity.

Something else that Luciani, similar to other authors who also write multi-part trilogies, does as well is pull in past characters and storylines from their previous story arcs. I realize quite a bit of this is about marketing and enticing readers to purchase their other works. However, I love these characters so much and hate to see their stories end - it makes me SO happy to be able to read about their continued lives and interaction with the new characters. We met Massimo in the "Ruthless Revenge" trilogy, where Luciani introduced the reader to this fierce, silent man with dark eyes and an intense need to protect the people he cares about. He was part of Patty Mulligan and Kyla's story, and now they are part of his. The reader gets a view into the lives of past characters and how they have grown into their lives.

There was one particular scene in this book that got my blood boiling in a good way. Kristina and Massimo are checking out a lead at a club called "Fire and Ice." It was one of the properties that her father owned. They are not sure what to expect. I wasn't sure what to expect. But wow.

"The foyer is muted, basic, and cold, making me wonder what kind of business my father would do here. Then we move through the darkened hallway. The music pumps, the lights flash, and my eyes are inundated with sights that I have never dared imagine, things that have slithers of desire prickling my skin.

The decor to the space on my right is draped in blue tones with white and crystal accents.

Clearly the ice.

But there's nothing remotely cold about what's happening in that room right now."

This scene was written so exceptionally well it was palatable. I could almost feel the atmosphere in the room as if I was experiencing it myself. I felt what Kristina felt and knew what was happening before she described it. It was an unexpected nugget but undoubtedly welcome, and I was happy to see the story return to the club a few more times. A plus, Kristen!

I highly recommend this book to anyone who read and loved the "Reckless Reign" trilogy and anyone who enjoys a good mafia romance. It's dark in the sense that Kristina and Massimo are in a fight for their lives, but the romance aspect isn't dark. It's gritty and hot and so worth it.
Enjoy!


To purchase other books by Kristen Luciani, or to read her bio, visit https://www.amazon.com/Kristen-Lucian...

DISCLOSURE: I received an Advanced Reader Copy for free from Hidden Gems. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars--STOLEN SOUL is the second instalment in Kristen Luciani’s contemporary,adult RUTHLESS REVENGE dark, erotic, Mafia romance series focusing on criminal underground heirs Massimo Marrone, and Kristina Ivankov. STOLEN SOUL should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events of book one KILLER KISS. The RUTHLESS REVENGE series is set in the author’s RECKLESS REIGN and SINFULLY SAVAGE worlds Several characters cross over for cohesion and familiarity.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Massimo and Kristina) STOLEN SOUL follows the continuing but acrimonious relationship between criminal underground heirs Massimo Marrone, and Kristina Ivankov. Weeks earlier Kristina’s parents were killed, and Kristina is the sole heir to her father’s fortune and dynasty but our heroine will quickly discover that all is not as it appears to be. Betrayed by the man with whom she is falling in love, Kristina struggles with her attraction to and need for our story line hero, a man whose demons runs dangerous and dark. Caught between several factions of the criminal underworld, Kristina and Massimo are forced into a marriage not of their making, a marriage that is meant to unite two powerful families for control at the top but our couple battle between head and heart to trust anyone connected to the Leota Commission, a group of connected underworld families vying for leadership, money and control. What ensues is the building but tempestuous relationship between Massimo and Kristina, and the fall-out as our couple begin searching for the truth, a truth that places a target on our heroine’s back.

The relationship between Massimo and Kristina is a highly sexual affair; a relationship of forced proximity; an arranged engagement brought about by threats and intimidation; a love that struggles in the face of secrets and lies. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic, and intense.

Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Kristina’s sisters Sofia and Maria; Massimo’s business partner Patty Mulligan and his wife Kyla; Quinn Mulligan; Massimo’s childhood best friend Joey, Joey’s sister Cari, and their parents Teresa and Dino; Gemma and Ronin Valenti; Dante Villani; and Massimo’s father, mob boss Savio. The requisite evil has many faces.

STOLEN SOUL is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, money and manipulation, discovery and corruption, love and hate. The premise is dark, gritty and engaging; the romance is provocative; the characters are powerful, energetic, and strong. STOLEN SOUL ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

www.thereadingcafe.com

[Megan (sporadic hiatus due to law school) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one was... better, I guess. I read the first one because I received a free ARC of Stolen Soul and I kind of needed the first book before I could read the second, but I kept reading because I was a little curious about how the story would turn out.

I must say, the cliffhanger at the end of the first one, while a lot less dramatic, worked a bit more for me than the cliffhanger at the end of this one. I'm in no hurry to read the third, but it was hard to put down the second.

I still personally feel like nothing is happening plot-wise and I'm confused by all the dates. From what I could see, there was no mention of when the wedding was set for, and suddenly it was in two days. I'm a little confused but it felt like both characters were ranting about their circumstances without doing much about it. They acted tough, but as I mentioned for Massimo's character in the last book, they seemed to be all bark and no bite.

Both of them said they would do this or look into that but it took forever for them to actually do it, and that normally only happened when something conveniently fell into their laps. It felt long, too, especially since rarely anything happened.

For a girl with serious trust issues, Kristen - Kristina - jumped into her new friendships relatively quickly. And all she did was point fingers at people and assumed they were the ones hunting her/killed her parents/etc.

I also wasn't a fan of the writing in this one, because it was all monologue after monologue after monologue. The characters didn't truly feel anything, they just spewed it all out loud regardless of who they were talking to - Kristina started talking about everything she was feeling to Massimo, who she still hated with a deep burning passion. I didn't feel any sort of connection to these characters and they felt 2-dimensional in this one because they said everything they were feeling, instead of having the readers experience it through descriptions and basically guess at what they were going through.

Massimo seemed like a bigger jerk to Kristina in this one, too, and I wasn't a fan of his character until the middle. At first, all he cared about was her causing a scene or making him look bad and getting angry at her for things, and taking it out on her during sex. I'm just saying, he was clearly in the wrong but he's not taking her rejection very well. Also, he claimed to have apologized "a million times" but I think I've only read a legitimate apology two or three times max. Most of the time his argument is that "she needs him" and the has sex with her.

At this point, it's up in the air if I'm reading the third one or not. There's nothing pressing me to read it and, while it should have been a big cliffhanger, it felt flat.

[Gin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Did I read a different book from everyone else? I felt this book fell prey to the middle book curse (where little happens because the book is theoretically setting the groundwork for an epic conclusion in the third book) and consequently had a lot of padding. In no particular order:

1. What does Kristina actually accomplish in this book? She expends a lot of energy trying to convince everyone (or maybe just herself) that she hates Massimo but jumps his bones whenever the opportunity presents itself. Admittedly, I may be expecting too much from her because I was under the impression that she was somehow working towards to becoming the head of the family and sitting in the seat vacated by her father. However, she never seems to do anything to become boss e.g., talking to other heads of families, familiarizing herself with her family's businesses. Instead, she makes friends with the wives. A couple of things clued me in late in the book-- at one point she refers to how her life has changed with her going from medical student to mob wife. Note she says 'wife' and not 'boss.' Also, someone comments that while the seat may be hers, she needs Savio's blessing to sit in it. So disappointing.

2. The whole mysterious informant thing. The first appearance was kind of pointless because he gave her information she already had.

3. Fire and Ice-- what a debacle. OK, it was a steamy scene once they actually get around to going. However, the first mention of Fire and Ice is halfway through the book. Why did it take so long? When Kristina and Massimo actually go there, they quickly get sidetracked from their goal of finding out useful information by all the sex. Also, Tatiana-- she's the assistant manager. Who's running things if she's partaking in the debauchery when she should be doing managerial things? Strange.

4. Lazy writing. There was a lot of repetition in the book. I think I got it the first time that Kristina had given up going to medical school when her parents died.

5. Cliched writing.

6. Incorrect idioms. Examples: 'cut from the same mold'-- should be '[cast] from the same mold' or 'cut from the same cloth.' 'Ears of an elephant' (wut? and what teenager would actually say this?) 'Played me like a... piano'. The instrument is a fiddle or violin. 'like he's a predator... and I'm in prey's clothing' [elipsis in original text]. It's just prey. Maybe she's mixing this up with another idiom, 'a wolf in sheep's clothing' (which would make no sense in this context).

Not the worst book I've read in the last couple of weeks, but close.

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two of the Ruthless Revenge series it isn’t a standalone and needs to be read in order it picks right up where book one left off and I must say it again screaming it loud and clear I HATE CLIFFHANGERS 😊! Buckle up this is a wild ride, dangerous men, alpha personified, possessive, oh, so gorgeous, brooding all the makings of a deliciously story 😊. There will be guilt, suspense, a little violence, lies, lies, lies, and then you have hope, and love.
By the time you’ve figured out who is who and what is what, 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.
The chemistry is just as intense as we remember, and the magnetic pull is much stronger ensuring neither Massimo and Kristina can’t ignore it and add to that fate taking control of everything also ensuring they end up right where she wants them to be but buckle up as advised because neither of them got the memo that fate is in control. An arranged marriage where there is no trust between them, but they will soon realize they need to stick together in order to get through what’s headed their way but after she learned who or what Massimo feeling the betrayal from the man, she loved bringing them back to their love/hate merry go around. Kristina must figure a way to get away from the devil himself after learning he is Savio’s son, hurt, angry as all get out and struggle with the fact, she thought he loved her. Everything they have been through she feels is nothing but lies, lies, and more lies on his part, the deceit, the pretending to care has her on edge and unable to forgive him (or so she keeps telling herself) so her goal has become to keep her sisters safe and find out who murdered her parents. So they both have to learn to trust only each other since they are digging into her parents murder they have become targets, they have to learn to listen to one another, and above all trust no one including his family but will they find the answer, will they make it as a couple, can she forgive him, will he show her how much he really do love her, and where are they headed again I really, really hate not knowing.

[Jessica Hawkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

The second installment of Luciani’s Ruthless Revenge series brings deeper into Kristi and Massimo’s romance. We find the couple engaged and learning to trust each other again. Kristi is finding who to trust and with Massimo finally showing his true feelings, they can move forward as a team. More revelations come to light about Kristi’s family and with Massimo’s help they begin to form a plan to take back their lives. However, there’s still someone pulling the strings that they havent unmasked and with the way the book ended, in a major cliffhanger, I can’t wait to find out who this person is in the next book.

While I’m still looking forward to the next book, it’s not because I loved the book. It’s because I want to finish this and wrap it up. I enjoy the characters in this mafia world that Luciani has created, but I struggled to really get into Massimo and Kristi’s story. It just didn’t hit all the right notes for me. I felt like Kristi was still very much a damsel in distress, which is a far change from the fiery, fiesty mafia princesses that she’s had in her other series’. It was wonderful to finally get a story on Massimo who we’ve also seen make appearances in Patty’s story. But unfortunately, this is definitely my least favorite couple. I really wanted to like them. I wouldn’t out right recommend this series but I would still recommend if to bring a bigger picture to the mafia world that the author has created.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.

[Claudia, Cmarie927 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew! What a great read!!

(full disclosure...I was fortunate enough to snag an advance review copy of this book, and am voluntarily leaving my review.)

Book two of Massimo’s story does not disappoint! As I said in my review of Killer Kiss, it is in your best interest to read Patty and Kyla’s stories first, so the subtleties in this one make sense. Totally worth the time. A great many characters and families make appearances across the stories, so knowing the connections and backstories is (IMHO) important.

I loved this read! The family/friend drama, as well as betrayals and suspense present in book one continues in this one. The last four chapters of this story will have your heart racing and your nerves tingling, because you KNOW something’s coming. And it’s coming in hard. And when it does, it is masterfully delivered.

I was certainly upset at the cliffhanger in book one, but this cliffhanger?! Oh my word!!! I was screaming – Noooooo – at the end.

This must be some of the steamiest chapters I’ve read from this author. The chemistry between Kristina and Massimo is absolutely nuclear. I am surprised my fingertips were not melting to my tablet as I was reading! It is written in a way that puts you right next to the characters and the scenes unfolding.

This is very difficult to put down once started, so plan your time accordingly. It was entirely too easy to (happily) lose myself in this world.

Obviously, I am a fan of this author, and I strongly recommend reading her other offerings and series (in order – of course). I feel she is one of the best Mafia/Bratva writers on the market today. Her works are always a “one-click” buy for me, and I eagerly look forward to the conclusion of this series and her creativity in future endeavors and stories.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Soul is the second book in Kristina & Massimo's turbulent journey so you seriously have to actually read Killer Kiss (Book 1) FIRST! See, Kristen Luciani is a diabolically brilliant author who can create a story with layer upon layer & some more layers for good measure, and this story is no exception. Kristina felt a connection to Massimo with serious chemistry sending out very flammable sparks, but she's found out that he's not who she thought he was & she's not taking it lying down that's for sure. She just wanted to become a doctor but her parents' untimely death totally destroyed that dream because she had two younger sisters who needed her (LOVE LOVE LOVE her sisters). She also has a ton of unknown enemies who would kill her given the chance making an insane amount of twists coming in hot. There are so many players on the board that it's hard to tell who is a baddie & who isn't so I've just started suspecting everyone at this point LOL! It all leads to an even bigger cliffhanger ending so now the endless wait begins all over again. If you love some mafia romance with dark undertones, you don't want to pass this series up so you know what to do as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[Jill Haworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

After one heck of a cliffhanger at the end of book one, Killer Kiss, we discover that Savio has grown impatient and decided to meet with Kristina in person. He makes her a deal, (blackmails her), into agreeing to marry Massimo in order to keep her seat on the Leota Commission syndicate safe. All the while Kristina is distraught about Sofia who is still in surgery.
At the same time Massimo is at the hospital trying to console a distraught Maria, and completely unaware of his fathers plotting.
Kristina finally meets Ronin and Gemma Valenti, the third seat in the syndicate, when their engagement party takes place, and she finds that frank conversations with Gemma bolster her confidence regarding navigating this new life of hers that she didn’t plan for or want.
Massimo on the other hand, introduces her to his family of friends and their wives who are able to offer her further sage advice. Things between Kristina and Massimo are less than amicable but passionate as they get closer with all of the deceit surrounding them, and plans for the wedding speed ahead, leaving us with an almighty shocker of an epilogue. A fantastic follow up to book one. Brilliant story telling!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Soul is the second installment in Ruthless Revenge Trilogy. It's an Age Gap, Forced Marriage, Secret Identity Dark Mafia Romance. This is Kristina and Massimo story. It's decadent, twisted, compelling and intense. The story is fast paced, pulse-pounding, action packed with many twists and turns. The characters sexplosive and orgasmic with chemistry that jumps off the pages. The storyline is fascinating and riveting and the characters are relatable. The story takes you on one rollercoaster ride from the beginning to ride up until the banging cliffhanger. Stolen Soul contains danger, lies, betrayals, deception, drama, deception, secrets, revenge, family issues, violence, enemies, hatred, resentment, hate-to-love, enemies-to-lovers, submission, dominance, spanking, attacks, trophy, pawn, kinks, dirty talking, tragedy, trust issues, revelations, angst, rough intense sex, lust, passion, power, control, and love. The story picks up where the cliffhanger ends in Killer Kiss and someone betrayed Kristina murdered her parents and now her life is in danger. This story will keep you on the edge of your seat.

I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Coastie Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kristen Luciano never fails to amaze me! This is the continuation of the story of the Massimo and Kristina. Kristina is still trying to figure out who killed her parents and who is out to end her and her sisters lives as well. Kristina is mad at Massimo as she found out who he really was and wanted nothing to do with him and his father Savio. This is definitely a love/hate relationship even though the sparks are flying between them. There is definitely a lack of communication between the two of them. A few new characters are brought in that add to the action, adventure and drama.

It's all in here – deceit, deception, intensity, excitement, twists, secrets, betrayal, passion, understanding, and having to understand that some things aren’t always as they seem. Be prepared to read through this in one sitting! I was drawn in from page 1 and got lost in the lives of Kristina and Massimo! The cliffhanger though – I cannot wait until the next book comes out as I am anxious to see what happens!

I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems ARC’s and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lisa O'D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like Book 1, Killer Kiss is extremely well written, this one probably more so.
We quickly recover from the cliffhanger of the first book as Kristina learns more about Massimo and his betrayal and is then forced to marry Massimo in order to continue to protect her sisters.
The chemistry between them both is now off the charts, the author has in this book the rare magic of making me feel as if I'm actually with the characters as the scene unfolds, something that only one other author has managed to make me feel. What follows is another exciting journey as the pair try to find out who was behind the murder of her parents. There are so many unexpected twists and turns with even more secrets, surprises, steam and betrayals that yet again, naturally, ends on a cliffhanger - more frustrating than the previous one if that's possible!

You must read the first part of this trio, Killer Kiss first and I guarantee you won't be disappointed or able to put this book down. I read this in one session and cannot wait for the conclusion to this trilogy, Evil Empire to be released.
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I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving Mas and Kristi’s story. It starts where Killer Kiss ends. So you need to read Killer Kiss before reading this. However, I think you will get a better enjoyment by reading Paaty and Kyla’s trilogy starting with Corrupted Crown. There is more suspense, secrets, lies, drama, and twists. Kristen took me on ride that has been so thrilling. There are some people I’m leery of, some that I definitely do not trust and then those that I trust wholeheartedly. Mas and Kristi still have sone hot as heck chemistry, Mas is trying to do everything to keep those he cares for safe. What will happen when there are some big secrets revealed? It may be time to take cover. 🤣 The ending is OMGOSH! What the heck!😳😳😳 I cannot wait until Evil Empire is here to see what is going to happen with these two.
“ Massimo makes me feel like I’m the center of his world when we’re together. Through his glances and his words, he can make my soul sing with glee and bring light to parts of me that were perpetually blanketed in darkness”

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars for Stolen Soul by Kristen Luciani

This book is not a standalone and picks up immediately after Killer Kiss Book 1 as these books are part of the Ruthless Revenge trilogy.

This is a fast paced dark mafia romance. In this book we really get to see more of the plot and great storyline. Kristina and Massimo have to enter into an arranged marriage where both are finding it hard to trust the other.

So much sizzle and steam ! Great characters from other books enter the mix ! Stolen Soul does end on a cliffhanger but I am sure all plot twists will be resolved in Book 3.

One thing I love about this writer is that she always finds a way to infuse her writing with funny dialog and situations - especially when least expected - I found myself laughing quite a few times - here is just an example of what I mean “ Right , Mafia Boss 101 - you obviously took that class and passed with flying colors “

Great read - loved it !

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Zelda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Ruthless Revenge trilogy. This book occurs over a period of about two months, and immediately follows on from book one. Massimo and Kristina both feel the repercussions of the secrets and lies that are slowly being revealed, and the confusion of not being able to make sense of motives, alliances, and coalitions. As a reader, I too am left feeling confused about who to believe & trust. I can see that characters are making reappearances & I have not read all the author’s previous books, so I’ll be checking out the backlist to catch up. I just feeling like I am missing a few connections. I loved the chemistry between Mas & Kristina—even when they’re fighting, there’s still a sensual pull. New characters are introduced, and their actions increase the mistrust & suspense. The author definitely has a lot of questions to answer in the final book of the trilogy, and I am anxiously waiting for the conclusion.

I received a copy of this book. My honest opinion is voluntarily provided.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second part of this amazing trilogy and is the continuing relationship between Massimo and Kristina. Massimo the dark, ruthless, mafia prince, and Kristina, mafia princess. After Kristina’s parents were killed, she becomes the sole heir to her father’s fortune and dynasty, but it does not take long to discover that not everything is as it seems. Kristina and Massimo are forced into a marriage which is supposed to join two powerful families for control and wealth off the underworld. Forced to be together this couple do not know who to trust and who is the enemy, and while digging Kristina becomes a target, and betrayals run deep. This is a well written story which has combustible and undeniable chemistry, and is dark, raw, gritty, and powerful, with secrets, lies betrayal, vengeance, trust, twists, tension, drama, corruption, guilt, suspense, danger, intrigue, family, and love, which lead to a riveting and addictive page turner. I look forward to reading the conclusion and I highly recommend this talented authors work.

[Susana Sousa · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars! Intrigue and more intrigue.....

Stolen Soul is the second installment in the Ruthless Revenge Trilogy and must be read after book one, Killer Kiss.
Mas and Kris are peculiar in their enemies-to-lovers and lovers-to-enemies relationship as well as their love to hate and hate to love expression of feelings. Kris is furious, and rightly so after finding out who Massimo really is and finds herself in the clutches of Savio again. Some decisions are not very well acepted, but undoubtably necessary. The heat progresses and so does their infatuation, ensnarement and very lustful entanglement.
We have some good troupes in the narrative: action-packed, betrayals, lies, revelations and new secrets, new players and shematics, an arranged marriage to solve problems and many to come along. For those who read Patty and Kyla' story, this book will make a lot more of sense.
I can't wait to see their triumph and their love prevail in the end!

[Emma bramley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen soul (Ruthless revenge 2)

This is the second book in this series by this author. This is the second book and needs to be read after killer kiss. This is the continued story of Kristina and Massimo, these two have intense chemistry between them. This story has its twists and turns, secrets, betrayal, surprises and plenty of steam. This is an amazing read from start to finish. This book ends in a cliffhanger ending, which will leave you wanting and needing book three in the series, evil empire. This is a fantastic addition to this already amazing addition.

I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest review

Release date - 08 April 2022
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[Riley · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

Ok Kristen Luciani you sμck. Leaving readers on the edge like this. What a cliffhanger!! I cannot add enough exclamation points. Stolen Soul picks up where Killer Kiss left off. Kristina and Massimo are still trying to get things straight.

The couple has undeniable chemistry and fighting leaves to hot and st€@my events. The push and pull definitely fits the characters but I just wanted them to work it out and band together. Trust is not easily earned back and Kristina does hold a grudge. Love the sisters especially Sofia. She is a pistol.

The plot was full of action and I am still in the dark as to who is who in the mystery. Kristen does seem to write in groups of books so I should have known there would be no resolution at the end and more questions. Grrr now the wait for the next book!

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Soul is book 2 of the Ruthless Revenge trilogy and sees the continuation of Massimo and Kristina’s story. Kristina has learned the true identity of Massimo and feels totally betrayed by the man she has fallen in love with. Ms Luciani has once again created a masterpiece of love and hate, drama and suspense, secrets and lies, and passion so hot it will leave you melting, the chemistry between the characters is off the scale.

This book ends on yet another exciting and enthralling cliffhanger. Can’t wait for ‘Evil Empire’ which is book 3 of this trilogy and sees the conclusion of this intriguing and captivating tale. Another fabulous steamy and twisted dark Mafia romance that is highly recommended.

I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the trilogy and continues on from book one.
Can Kristina ever believe anything Massimo says after she finds out all his lies so when Savio says that they are going to get married she tries to fight against it.
Massimo will do anything for Kristina but can he get her to believe that he is doing everything for her.
The chemistry is electric between them but is that enough to keep them together and alive.
There are so many twists and turns in this book with plenty of drama and so much emotion and suspense but can they work together to find out who wants her dead before they succeed with their plans.
Ends on an even bigger cliffhanger.
A must read and I can't wait for the final book. .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! JUST WOW! I thought book one was amazing. However, book two blew my mind. This book is filled with action filled suspenseful moments. The emotional roller-coaster will have your mind spinning. The relationship problems between Massimo and Kristina, Massimo and his male friends are realistic and very relatable. This will have you on the edge of your seat holding your breath waiting for the next shoe to drop and it does over and over again. Yes, it ends on a cliffhanger. But believe me it is worth the read. I look forward to book three.

I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book via Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Action-packed
Haunting
Page-turner
Realistic
Scary
Steamy
Tragic
Twisted
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters

[Romaine Heart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angry after the lies and betrayal of Massimo Kristina finds herself back in the clutches of Savio. She must do what she has to in order to keep her sisters safe. Kristina has no alternative other than to marry Massimo.
Kristina and Massimo work together to unravel the mystery behind the assassination of her parents. They find incriminating evidence as to what her parents were supposedly involved in at Fire and Ice.
Watch everyone closely. Listen very carefully. Trust absolutely no one. Everything is not as it appears.
A very explosive cliffy that will take your breath away in this part two of the trilogy! So freaking worth the wait!!
Thank you Hidden Gems and the author for a digital copy. Read and reviewed voluntarily and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yay for book 2!! This story picks right up with the drama between Kristina and Massimo continuing. Kristina has found out after falling in love with Massimo, that he is not a security guard hired to protect her and her sisters, he's Savio's son...the devil himself!! She's so infuriated with him! How could he do this to her! She thought he loved her, but his deceit changes everything, she will never forgive him (or will she).

So many twists and turns and holy smokes this was one HOT book! As hot as Massimo is, I'd forgiven him in a heartbeat, but Kristina kept dragging it out. Loved this story so much, but oh the cliffhanger....ugh! Hopefully this author doesn't keep me holding on waiting for the next story for very long!

[MrsL · Rating 4 out of 5]

Following on from where Killer Kiss ended, this is the continuation of Massimo and Kristina's story. You do need to have read the first book for this one to really make any sense. As I'm a huge fan of Kristen's work that is never a problem for me! I read this book in one sitting which is a testament to how engaged I was in the story.

Some new characters are introduced, but whose side is Gemma really on? More secrets are revealed and some loose ends tied up but plenty more to discover.
This book finishes on another cliffhanger, but with the promise that the next book will reveal all - I hope!!

I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stolen Soul is the second book in the Ruthless Revenge Trilogy and continues the story of Kirstina and Massimo. In the first book of this series, Killer Kiss, I was team Kristina and even compared her to Heaven. In this book, I cannot say the same. While I was still rooting for her, I hated how easily she gave in to Massimo.

That said, I am glad that things turned around…until they crumbled yet again. The cliffhanger is driving me mad as I want to know what happens next. I know that it will all work out, but I don’t know how yet. I can’t wait for the conclusion in Evil Empire.

Voluntarily reviewed after receiving a free copy courtesy of BookSprout and the author, Kristen Luciani.