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Scandalous Scions #1
The Bastard's Betrayal
She thought it was love.
Rose Romanov is a mafia princess, and everything that entails. Violently over-protective parents. A giant extended family, all ready to kill anyone who looks at her wrong. Learning to run a business that isn’t exactly on the right side of the law. So, naturally, when she meets a nice guy who isn’t in the life, she falls hard… Right up until the she discovers her new boyfriend isn’t a civilian at all.
But he betrayed her.
When Dante Verducci was sent on an undercover mission to evaluate the Romanov family for weakness, he never expected to have an instant connection with their unlikely heir. There’s something fierce and feral about Rose that calls to him. They’re alike, even if they’re both lying to each other during the months they date. Before he could figure out a new plan, Rose finds out who he really is, dumps him, and immediately enters an engagement with the heir of a rival family. Yeah, no, that’s not going to work for Dante.
Now he’ll do anything to reclaim her. Even go to war.
Author's Note: For all tropes, tag, and CWs, please check the author's website.
Rose Romanov is a mafia princess, and everything that entails. Violently over-protective parents. A giant extended family, all ready to kill anyone who looks at her wrong. Learning to run a business that isn’t exactly on the right side of the law. So, naturally, when she meets a nice guy who isn’t in the life, she falls hard… Right up until the she discovers her new boyfriend isn’t a civilian at all.
But he betrayed her.
When Dante Verducci was sent on an undercover mission to evaluate the Romanov family for weakness, he never expected to have an instant connection with their unlikely heir. There’s something fierce and feral about Rose that calls to him. They’re alike, even if they’re both lying to each other during the months they date. Before he could figure out a new plan, Rose finds out who he really is, dumps him, and immediately enters an engagement with the heir of a rival family. Yeah, no, that’s not going to work for Dante.
Now he’ll do anything to reclaim her. Even go to war.
Author's Note: For all tropes, tag, and CWs, please check the author's website.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2021
About the author
Katee Robert
138 books25.4k followersKatee Robert is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of spicy romance. Entertainment Weekly calls her writing “unspeakably hot.” Her books have sold over two million copies. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, children, a cat who thinks he’s a dog, and two Great Danes who think they’re lap dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 282 reviews
August 3, 2021
3.5-4 stars! This is a great first book to a new series. It’s the spinoff/second generation of the O’Malley’s series following Dmitri and Keira’s children, the Romanov sisters. Even though I’ve read the first two books in the original series, I pretty much forgot everything and The Bastard’s Betrayal still read fine on its own.
Rose is the oldest Romanov sister and the heir to the NYC Romanov mafia family. She has a ton of weight on her shoulders and the one reprieve she’s found is with Jackson, who has nothing to do with the mafia family… or so she thinks. It turns out the man she fell in love with is actually Dante Verducci, cousin to the heir of the mafia family in LA. She breaks things off, literally shoots him, and gets engaged to the boss of an ally family. But Dante isn’t about to let her go that easily and kidnaps her on her wedding day.
Sooo as you can tell, the book opens up in the most entertaining way possible. So much is happening and there are quite a few characters who will be familiar if you’ve read the O’Malley’s. Dante is the definition of an obsessed alpha hero who will do anything to have the heroine and would give her the world. They spend most of the book secluded in his cabin (after he kidnaps her lol) and he tries to win back her trust and heart. They have to figure out a way to be together, which is nearly impossible because of who their families are. I loved Dante’s devotion - he’s a man who’s not afraid to show how much he cares for Rose and how much he loves her. Rose is obviously a lot more wary but there’s an undeniable connection between them she can’t ignore.
I think part of why this is closer to a 3.5 is that we don’t really get to see Rose in all her mafia heir glory. She has conversations with her parents (her dad is the current boss), Romeo (who she was supposed to marry), and her bodyguard, but she never interacted with anyone else in the mafia world? And it’s only barely mentioned the “things” she had to do as the heir to secure her power. I would’ve loved to actually see that. The romance is definitely the highlight of the story, though I do love the relationships between the Romanov sisters. We have Rose, Sasha, Anya, Lorelei - Sasha’s story is next but I’m most excited about Lorelei!
Overall, I had a really fun time reading this mafia romance. There’s more mafia politics than action so don’t expect anything too violent. I’m so looking forward to the rest of the series!
Rose is the oldest Romanov sister and the heir to the NYC Romanov mafia family. She has a ton of weight on her shoulders and the one reprieve she’s found is with Jackson, who has nothing to do with the mafia family… or so she thinks. It turns out the man she fell in love with is actually Dante Verducci, cousin to the heir of the mafia family in LA. She breaks things off, literally shoots him, and gets engaged to the boss of an ally family. But Dante isn’t about to let her go that easily and kidnaps her on her wedding day.
Sooo as you can tell, the book opens up in the most entertaining way possible. So much is happening and there are quite a few characters who will be familiar if you’ve read the O’Malley’s. Dante is the definition of an obsessed alpha hero who will do anything to have the heroine and would give her the world. They spend most of the book secluded in his cabin (after he kidnaps her lol) and he tries to win back her trust and heart. They have to figure out a way to be together, which is nearly impossible because of who their families are. I loved Dante’s devotion - he’s a man who’s not afraid to show how much he cares for Rose and how much he loves her. Rose is obviously a lot more wary but there’s an undeniable connection between them she can’t ignore.
I think part of why this is closer to a 3.5 is that we don’t really get to see Rose in all her mafia heir glory. She has conversations with her parents (her dad is the current boss), Romeo (who she was supposed to marry), and her bodyguard, but she never interacted with anyone else in the mafia world? And it’s only barely mentioned the “things” she had to do as the heir to secure her power. I would’ve loved to actually see that. The romance is definitely the highlight of the story, though I do love the relationships between the Romanov sisters. We have Rose, Sasha, Anya, Lorelei - Sasha’s story is next but I’m most excited about Lorelei!
Overall, I had a really fun time reading this mafia romance. There’s more mafia politics than action so don’t expect anything too violent. I’m so looking forward to the rest of the series!
August 26, 2021
3.5 STARS
When a book starts with that quote, you know you're in for a good time. I love me some Katee Roberts, and when I saw she's releasing a spin off from The O'Malleys series, I was all over it. I love a good mafia romance, and throw in a bit of betrayal and hate lust into the mix and I'm done. STICK A FORK IN ME. I love it.
I loved the first half of this story. Rose Romanov is a heroine that you instantly love. The woman is a badass. She's a mafia princess and the daughter of Dmitri and Keira from The Bastard's Bargain. If you haven't read that book, don't worry, you can easily pick things up with this one as it is the launch of a new series.
Rose can't seem to do right by her family. She knows that having a relationship with a sexy bartender who she recently met isn't meant to be because of her family responsibility. But when she finds out that the bartender isn't who he says he was and he happens to have ties to a rival mafia? Suffice it to say she's pissed.
Boy meets girl. Boy betrays girl. Girl get pissed and shoots boy. Boy is determined and kidnaps girl on her wedding day (of her arranged marriage) and will stop at nothing, including plying her with orgasms to make her his.
Having said that, I loved the first half of this book. The kidnapping, the push and pull, the hate lust, the second chance romance vibes. All of it just did it for me. But then the story lost a bit of steam for me. I wanted more mafia action, but most of it was a bit on the meh side. Outside of a few brief glimpses and instances, not much else happens. I began to grow bored and to skim. I also found myself wishing we got some glimpse of how these two got together. That all takes place off the pages, and I would have loved a bit more fleshing out of their original connection. Don't get me wrong, I still loved their chemistry, I just also wished for at least a flashback or two.
And then there's the set up for the next book? GIMME! It sounds utterly delicious.
If you're looking for a super spicy mafia romance, definitely read this. It's not the usual grittiness that I prefer in my mafia romance, but the spice made up for it and I still enjoyed it quite a bit.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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His gaze flicked to the gun in her hands. “You really think you’re going to shoot me? You were coming around my cock twenty-four hours ago.”
Fury nearly made her black out. Maybe she wouldn’t regret this after all. He was so fucking sure of her, of this situation, as if the gun in her hand didn’t mean a single damn thing. She’d prove him wrong. Rose steadied her stance, reaching for the one thing she could that would hurt him a fraction of as much as he’d hurt her.
“I faked it.” She pulled the trigger.
When a book starts with that quote, you know you're in for a good time. I love me some Katee Roberts, and when I saw she's releasing a spin off from The O'Malleys series, I was all over it. I love a good mafia romance, and throw in a bit of betrayal and hate lust into the mix and I'm done. STICK A FORK IN ME. I love it.
I loved the first half of this story. Rose Romanov is a heroine that you instantly love. The woman is a badass. She's a mafia princess and the daughter of Dmitri and Keira from The Bastard's Bargain. If you haven't read that book, don't worry, you can easily pick things up with this one as it is the launch of a new series.
Rose can't seem to do right by her family. She knows that having a relationship with a sexy bartender who she recently met isn't meant to be because of her family responsibility. But when she finds out that the bartender isn't who he says he was and he happens to have ties to a rival mafia? Suffice it to say she's pissed.
Boy meets girl. Boy betrays girl. Girl get pissed and shoots boy. Boy is determined and kidnaps girl on her wedding day (of her arranged marriage) and will stop at nothing, including plying her with orgasms to make her his.
Having said that, I loved the first half of this book. The kidnapping, the push and pull, the hate lust, the second chance romance vibes. All of it just did it for me. But then the story lost a bit of steam for me. I wanted more mafia action, but most of it was a bit on the meh side. Outside of a few brief glimpses and instances, not much else happens. I began to grow bored and to skim. I also found myself wishing we got some glimpse of how these two got together. That all takes place off the pages, and I would have loved a bit more fleshing out of their original connection. Don't get me wrong, I still loved their chemistry, I just also wished for at least a flashback or two.
And then there's the set up for the next book? GIMME! It sounds utterly delicious.
If you're looking for a super spicy mafia romance, definitely read this. It's not the usual grittiness that I prefer in my mafia romance, but the spice made up for it and I still enjoyed it quite a bit.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
December 31, 2022
The Bastard's Betrayal is a mafia romance with passion and suspense. Rose Romanov has been busy having fun knowing that at any moment her family obligations will pull her back into the Mafia World. Rose has inadvertently fallen in love with a man who is not exactly who he proclaims to be.
Dante Verducci is loyal to his family and his mission until he discovers the powerful pull of Rose Romanov. Once he has a taste of her, he is not willing to let her go.
Overall, The Bastard's Betrayal is a quick read full of everything Mafia Romance lovers will devour. Although I enjoyed the read greatly, there were moments that were predictable. Still, I say give the Scandalous Scions a go as this is a strong start to what promises to be another amazing series by Katee Robert!
March Shhlutty ReadThis was our March Shhlutty Read!
• March 1-31: https://bit.ly/Mar22SR
• About Shhlutty Read: http://bit.ly/SRAbout
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
August 5, 2021
*Thank you to the author for an eARC of this novel.*
Loved being back in this world!!!!!
I am a Katee Robert Stan and I am a bit biased because the O'Malley series was one of the first mafia families I was ever introduced to. So if you are looking for an unbiased review... look elsewhere.
I loved this first book so much. I am so excited for everything be set up in the future books. I love the Romanov sisters and their distinct personalities. I loved the peek at Kiera and Dmitri and how they were as parents. It just made my heart so happy.
Rose has been having a secret relationship with who she thinks is a nice, boring, civilian boyfriend. He may be a little vanilla, but he is her escape from the pressures of her life as a Mafia Princess.
Then the rug gets pulled out from her and it turns out not only is he not boring... he Dante Verducci, a freaking rival to her family. So... she gets even and breaks it off in a spectacular fashion.
Well, Dante isn't going to take that lying down. Rosa is his, and he is gonna make her see it. One way, or the other.
This was a ride form chapter one. It was also sweet, spicy, and delicious all the way through.
I think you can read this book just fine without the other series, but it will add another layer if you have.
Enjoy!
5/5 stars
Loved being back in this world!!!!!
I am a Katee Robert Stan and I am a bit biased because the O'Malley series was one of the first mafia families I was ever introduced to. So if you are looking for an unbiased review... look elsewhere.
I loved this first book so much. I am so excited for everything be set up in the future books. I love the Romanov sisters and their distinct personalities. I loved the peek at Kiera and Dmitri and how they were as parents. It just made my heart so happy.
Rose has been having a secret relationship with who she thinks is a nice, boring, civilian boyfriend. He may be a little vanilla, but he is her escape from the pressures of her life as a Mafia Princess.
Then the rug gets pulled out from her and it turns out not only is he not boring... he Dante Verducci, a freaking rival to her family. So... she gets even and breaks it off in a spectacular fashion.
Well, Dante isn't going to take that lying down. Rosa is his, and he is gonna make her see it. One way, or the other.
This was a ride form chapter one. It was also sweet, spicy, and delicious all the way through.
I think you can read this book just fine without the other series, but it will add another layer if you have.
Enjoy!
5/5 stars
August 26, 2021
Another amazing Katee Robert book! I had so much fun reading Dante and Rose's story. It gets me so excited that we are now going to have the new gen of the O'Malleys series. I've always crave a big series with older/younger generations getting their happy endings, seeing our favorite ships as parents or cool aunts-- I love that! And we are getting that and more in Scandalous Scions series.
Rose is ready to tell her boyfriend she loves him, but before she goes to him her parents call her into their studio and tell her some shocking revelations. The man who knows as Jackson, her boyfriend, is not really Jackson, but Dante Verducci, her enemy. Hurt and betrayed she goes to Dante and shoots him TWICE before he manages to run off. Unbeknown to her, Dante loves her too and more so now after getting shot lmao. She is his.
Mafia romances have been my absolute favorite thing this year. And no one does is better than Katee Robert. The high stakes, the betrayals, the arranged marriages to have alliances, and the steam. THE STEAAAAAM THE SMUT!!! Dante and Rose are enemies to lovers excellence. Rose wants to k*ll him so badly but Dante will try his hardest to show her that she is it for him. Dante also has the obsessed with you trope, I hate everyone but you trope, and "I will burn down the world if it means I can save you" trope. He owns my soouuuuul.
This book does many things great and I love knowing Rose. I love being in Rose's head and I love Rose entirely. She is icy when she needs to be, she loves to be hard and deadly. She is the heir to the American Romanovs and she will do whatever it takes to make everyone see her as that. A mafia princess through and through who doesn't care getting a little bloody if the situation requires.
Rose is ready to tell her boyfriend she loves him, but before she goes to him her parents call her into their studio and tell her some shocking revelations. The man who knows as Jackson, her boyfriend, is not really Jackson, but Dante Verducci, her enemy. Hurt and betrayed she goes to Dante and shoots him TWICE before he manages to run off. Unbeknown to her, Dante loves her too and more so now after getting shot lmao. She is his.
Mafia romances have been my absolute favorite thing this year. And no one does is better than Katee Robert. The high stakes, the betrayals, the arranged marriages to have alliances, and the steam. THE STEAAAAAM THE SMUT!!! Dante and Rose are enemies to lovers excellence. Rose wants to k*ll him so badly but Dante will try his hardest to show her that she is it for him. Dante also has the obsessed with you trope, I hate everyone but you trope, and "I will burn down the world if it means I can save you" trope. He owns my soouuuuul.
This book does many things great and I love knowing Rose. I love being in Rose's head and I love Rose entirely. She is icy when she needs to be, she loves to be hard and deadly. She is the heir to the American Romanovs and she will do whatever it takes to make everyone see her as that. A mafia princess through and through who doesn't care getting a little bloody if the situation requires.
August 29, 2021
Italian mafia hero, Russian mafia heroine. They have been secretly seeing one another for months but she doesn’t know he’s a mafia man she thinks he’s just a regular guy. When she finds out- she feels betrayed and shoots him and then gets betrothed to another man to secure an alliance. Dante has NONE of that, because Rose is his and there will never be anyone else for him. So he kidnaps her on her wedding day.
Dante was a great hero, he was extremely set in his way with rose. Despite the complicated beginning of their relationship, he knows rose is it for him and every single time anyone questions it he doesn’t even think for a second about it. It’s a constant “She is it for me. She is mine. That’s it. So what else is there to consider?”
Rose is a fantastic heroine. She is heir to the Russian mob in her city and she acts like it. She’s strong and stubborn and she takes shit from no one. When she shot Dante i about screamed my head off it was such a fantastic scene. She’s ruthless and so is he, and their perfect for one another. Dante loves it. Anytime She exerts dominance he is so into it i loved it. Also, Katee is so fantastic about consent. Every book i read by her has reinforced consent and in this one there was even a discussion about what they would do if rose should be un expectantly pregnant. When rose said it wouldn’t be safe to have a baby yet, Dante said something to the effect of “it’s your body. I want to get you pregnant, but when we plan it”. Hot. Am i right ?
Dante was a great hero, he was extremely set in his way with rose. Despite the complicated beginning of their relationship, he knows rose is it for him and every single time anyone questions it he doesn’t even think for a second about it. It’s a constant “She is it for me. She is mine. That’s it. So what else is there to consider?”
Rose is a fantastic heroine. She is heir to the Russian mob in her city and she acts like it. She’s strong and stubborn and she takes shit from no one. When she shot Dante i about screamed my head off it was such a fantastic scene. She’s ruthless and so is he, and their perfect for one another. Dante loves it. Anytime She exerts dominance he is so into it i loved it. Also, Katee is so fantastic about consent. Every book i read by her has reinforced consent and in this one there was even a discussion about what they would do if rose should be un expectantly pregnant. When rose said it wouldn’t be safe to have a baby yet, Dante said something to the effect of “it’s your body. I want to get you pregnant, but when we plan it”. Hot. Am i right ?
August 31, 2021
4 Thrilled To Have This Next Generation Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free-Warning A Long Ass Review
I discovered Katee Robert in 2014 when she was writing smexy, fun books for the Brazen division of Entangled Publishing. I had just started reading romance with a serious devotion and her books had a certain flair I really enjoyed.
In 2015, Forever published another side of Katee Robert. This side was still the intense sexy side but it also had a more complex layering of multiple ethnic families all tied to one sort of Mafia or another. There was the Irish, the Italian, and the Russian Mob. All of them are ruthless, all looking for an edge, and all of them using their children, unfortunately as pawns.
The first book in this series was The Marriage Contract. It took a deep look into the Irish Connected Families and wow, it could be harsh. But also WOW, did it start my love affair with this series. It isn't the strongest book of the group but it did exactly what the first book in a series must do, introduce you to all the important elements, the families, the conflicts, and also give the readers a couple to root for. The series took off with a vengeance and I loved every entry. In fact, I loved it so much, periodically, out of the blue, the families and storylines would come to mind, reminding me of how much I was taken by these books.
So after Ms. Robert finished this series, she has written all sorts of genres successfully. Her talent remains true. Pick any of her books in her catalogue, and you will not be disappointed.
Yet, it seems her readers kept poking and mentioning how much they missed her O'Malley's and wondered what was happening with them...So when you are smart, savvy, and able to create the way Ms Robert can, you do what comes naturally...
Hence, The Bastard's Betrayal (Scandalous Scions #1). It is the continuing stories of the second generation of all of these past families. We are given family trees of all the players so we can understand the intricacies of relationships to whom, grudges and revenge, and the power struggles.
I will tell you the reading of this brought back all the warm fuzzies for me, remembering how I would sit in my car during my work break/lunch losing myself in this world.
Like the first book, again there is a lot to put forth. We get backstories, the complications of actions, and what they now mean, the main focus is on a forbidden love story, yum, and also the pushback to the Heir to one of the families being a Woman...Yes, Woman.
We get all the sexy times, some suspense action, and a huge tease for the next book. Everything I adore. The blurb tells you the story's focus so go forth, click-click, and read this book.
The Bastard's Betrayal (Scandalous Scions #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The series that started it all and is best read in order:
The Marriage Contract (The O'Malleys, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Wedding Pact (The O'Malleys, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
An Indecent Proposal (The O'Malleys, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Forbidden Promises (The O'Malleys, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Undercover Attraction (The O'Malleys, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Bastard's Bargain (The O'Malley's #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
July 8, 2021
Two Families, Both...
Not On The Right Side Of the Law...
Rose Romanov, The Heir Apparent In Waiting...
A Pretty Princess Who Has Learned From Birth...
Violence, Importance Of Family, Trust No One...
She Thinks She Has Found The One...
One Who Isn't Part Of Any Family...
A Civilian...
Dante Verducci Was Entrusted With A Mission...
Go Undercover, Engage, And Evaluate The Enemy...
Learn All You Can, Find The Romanov's Weakness...
But Then It Happened...
The Discovery He Never Intended...
Rose Was This Force, This Draw...
Cunning, Capable, Sexy, Everything...
Dante Needs To Change His Plans...
Dante Doesn't Know But Rose, Clever Woman...
Discovers Everything...
So Now We Have Him Lying To Her...
And Her Lying To Him...
Up Until The Moment She Dumps Him...
If There Is One Thing...
A Mafia Princess Will Not Stand For It's ...
The Bastard's Betrayal (Scandalous Scions #1)-September 13, 2021
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free-Warning A Long Ass Review
I discovered Katee Robert in 2014 when she was writing smexy, fun books for the Brazen division of Entangled Publishing. I had just started reading romance with a serious devotion and her books had a certain flair I really enjoyed.
In 2015, Forever published another side of Katee Robert. This side was still the intense sexy side but it also had a more complex layering of multiple ethnic families all tied to one sort of Mafia or another. There was the Irish, the Italian, and the Russian Mob. All of them are ruthless, all looking for an edge, and all of them using their children, unfortunately as pawns.
The first book in this series was The Marriage Contract. It took a deep look into the Irish Connected Families and wow, it could be harsh. But also WOW, did it start my love affair with this series. It isn't the strongest book of the group but it did exactly what the first book in a series must do, introduce you to all the important elements, the families, the conflicts, and also give the readers a couple to root for. The series took off with a vengeance and I loved every entry. In fact, I loved it so much, periodically, out of the blue, the families and storylines would come to mind, reminding me of how much I was taken by these books.
So after Ms. Robert finished this series, she has written all sorts of genres successfully. Her talent remains true. Pick any of her books in her catalogue, and you will not be disappointed.
Yet, it seems her readers kept poking and mentioning how much they missed her O'Malley's and wondered what was happening with them...So when you are smart, savvy, and able to create the way Ms Robert can, you do what comes naturally...
Hence, The Bastard's Betrayal (Scandalous Scions #1). It is the continuing stories of the second generation of all of these past families. We are given family trees of all the players so we can understand the intricacies of relationships to whom, grudges and revenge, and the power struggles.
I will tell you the reading of this brought back all the warm fuzzies for me, remembering how I would sit in my car during my work break/lunch losing myself in this world.
Like the first book, again there is a lot to put forth. We get backstories, the complications of actions, and what they now mean, the main focus is on a forbidden love story, yum, and also the pushback to the Heir to one of the families being a Woman...Yes, Woman.
We get all the sexy times, some suspense action, and a huge tease for the next book. Everything I adore. The blurb tells you the story's focus so go forth, click-click, and read this book.
The Bastard's Betrayal (Scandalous Scions #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The series that started it all and is best read in order:
The Marriage Contract (The O'Malleys, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Wedding Pact (The O'Malleys, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
An Indecent Proposal (The O'Malleys, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Forbidden Promises (The O'Malleys, #4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Undercover Attraction (The O'Malleys, #5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Bastard's Bargain (The O'Malley's #6) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
July 8, 2021
Two Families, Both...
Not On The Right Side Of the Law...
Rose Romanov, The Heir Apparent In Waiting...
A Pretty Princess Who Has Learned From Birth...
Violence, Importance Of Family, Trust No One...
She Thinks She Has Found The One...
One Who Isn't Part Of Any Family...
A Civilian...
Dante Verducci Was Entrusted With A Mission...
Go Undercover, Engage, And Evaluate The Enemy...
Learn All You Can, Find The Romanov's Weakness...
But Then It Happened...
The Discovery He Never Intended...
Rose Was This Force, This Draw...
Cunning, Capable, Sexy, Everything...
Dante Needs To Change His Plans...
Dante Doesn't Know But Rose, Clever Woman...
Discovers Everything...
So Now We Have Him Lying To Her...
And Her Lying To Him...
Up Until The Moment She Dumps Him...
If There Is One Thing...
A Mafia Princess Will Not Stand For It's ...
The Bastard's Betrayal (Scandalous Scions #1)-September 13, 2021
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
August 3, 2021
Read more of my reviews @ The Infinite Limits of Love.
Katee is one of those authors who leans heavily into fan service and I have nothing but respect for her because of that. The Bastard's Betrayal is the next generation of the O'Malleys and boy, does it deliver. It is strongly reminiscent of the OG series but also happens to stand out on its own. The Bastard's Betrayal was a great start to what is bound to be one fun series and I simply cannot wait to see what the author does with all the characters.
A Next-Generation Series Done Right
The Bastard's Betrayal belongs entirely to Rose Romanov, daughter of Dmitri Romanov and Keira O'Malley. From the opening scene, she's an absolute scene-stealer. She is as badass as the cover model and is so unapologetic. The book opens up with mafia princess Rose learning that her civilian boyfriend isn't who she thought he was. He is Dante Verducci and he is undercover for a rival mafia family. Rose, obviously, sees red when she learns of this from her parents. So she dumps him, shoots him, and agrees to marry the heir of another rival family that the Romanovs are looking to ally themselves with. Dante, on the other hand, is determined not to let her go and he would do anything to make sure the wedding does not take place.
A Scene-Stealing Heroine
I loved loved LOVED Rose so much. She has so much fire and feistiness inside of her. She's grown up in this life of violence so she's had to toughen up as a result of her upbringing. Rose is no-nonsense and doesn't let anyone tread over her. That being said, she's also vulnerable in her own ways. Her isolated, pre-betrayal love life with Dante allowed her to be comfortable with her softer non-mafia princess side. It's no wonder that she was so hurt upon learning the truth about Dante and I was fully behind her for dumping the dumbass.
And the way Dante chases after her and shows they are made for each other? DAMN! If you're not into the kidnapping-to-show-you-you're-mine trope, this isn't the book for you. It's not a trope that always works for me and I am 10000% against it in real life. However, I can be convinced in fictional cases and I was here -lowkey found it hot, don't judge me. So, Dante kidnaps Rose from her wedding to show her that he's all about her and not ready to let her go. Dante has a lot of history and painful moments in his history that get revealed slowly throughout the book. I did hope to get to know him a little more than we did here. As I said earlier, this book is all about Rose, and she definitely takes the attention away from him (AS SHE SHOULD).
Sizzling Chemistry
As a couple, Dante and Rose were hot together. I mean it's a Katee Robert book and she is a pro at writing couples with so much fire and steam between them. Dante and Rose will have you PANTING. There's hate banging, friends. We love that here! I also really loved the little glimpses we got into their life right before everything went to shit. They carve out a peaceful space away from all the chaos with each other and it's the sweetest. What I love about Katee's romances is how addicting they are because she just nails romantic dynamics between her couples.
What's To Come Next
Besides the romance and chemistry, I loved seeing the cast from the OG series play such a pivotal role. Dmitri and Keira are exactly as I imagined they would be like as parents! And Carrigan!! I still love her so much! There's also a great bond between Rose and her sisters. She would do literally anything for them and I was soft at how protective they all were of each other.
I also enjoyed all the rival mafia family dynamics and oh my gosh, I'm already obsessed with all the upcoming couples Katee teased here with her Easter eggs. I NEED LORELEI AND ROMEO ASAP. I'm desperate!
Definitely add this one to your TBRs if you're a fan of the author or enjoy mafia romances!
Content notes: violence, kidnapping, death of a parent (mentioned in past), on-page sex
Relationship disclosure: Katee Robert & I are mutuals on social media.
Katee is one of those authors who leans heavily into fan service and I have nothing but respect for her because of that. The Bastard's Betrayal is the next generation of the O'Malleys and boy, does it deliver. It is strongly reminiscent of the OG series but also happens to stand out on its own. The Bastard's Betrayal was a great start to what is bound to be one fun series and I simply cannot wait to see what the author does with all the characters.
A Next-Generation Series Done Right
The Bastard's Betrayal belongs entirely to Rose Romanov, daughter of Dmitri Romanov and Keira O'Malley. From the opening scene, she's an absolute scene-stealer. She is as badass as the cover model and is so unapologetic. The book opens up with mafia princess Rose learning that her civilian boyfriend isn't who she thought he was. He is Dante Verducci and he is undercover for a rival mafia family. Rose, obviously, sees red when she learns of this from her parents. So she dumps him, shoots him, and agrees to marry the heir of another rival family that the Romanovs are looking to ally themselves with. Dante, on the other hand, is determined not to let her go and he would do anything to make sure the wedding does not take place.
A Scene-Stealing Heroine
I loved loved LOVED Rose so much. She has so much fire and feistiness inside of her. She's grown up in this life of violence so she's had to toughen up as a result of her upbringing. Rose is no-nonsense and doesn't let anyone tread over her. That being said, she's also vulnerable in her own ways. Her isolated, pre-betrayal love life with Dante allowed her to be comfortable with her softer non-mafia princess side. It's no wonder that she was so hurt upon learning the truth about Dante and I was fully behind her for dumping the dumbass.
And the way Dante chases after her and shows they are made for each other? DAMN! If you're not into the kidnapping-to-show-you-you're-mine trope, this isn't the book for you. It's not a trope that always works for me and I am 10000% against it in real life. However, I can be convinced in fictional cases and I was here -
Sizzling Chemistry
As a couple, Dante and Rose were hot together. I mean it's a Katee Robert book and she is a pro at writing couples with so much fire and steam between them. Dante and Rose will have you PANTING. There's hate banging, friends. We love that here! I also really loved the little glimpses we got into their life right before everything went to shit. They carve out a peaceful space away from all the chaos with each other and it's the sweetest. What I love about Katee's romances is how addicting they are because she just nails romantic dynamics between her couples.
What's To Come Next
Besides the romance and chemistry, I loved seeing the cast from the OG series play such a pivotal role. Dmitri and Keira are exactly as I imagined they would be like as parents! And Carrigan!! I still love her so much! There's also a great bond between Rose and her sisters. She would do literally anything for them and I was soft at how protective they all were of each other.
I also enjoyed all the rival mafia family dynamics and oh my gosh, I'm already obsessed with all the upcoming couples Katee teased here with her Easter eggs. I NEED LORELEI AND ROMEO ASAP. I'm desperate!
Definitely add this one to your TBRs if you're a fan of the author or enjoy mafia romances!
Content notes: violence, kidnapping, death of a parent (mentioned in past), on-page sex
Relationship disclosure: Katee Robert & I are mutuals on social media.
December 7, 2021
This started out promising.
Enemies-to-lovers, mafia-Romeo-and-Juliet, captor-captive, and a second chance romance? I’m sold.
The heroine discovers that her boyfriend, who she thought was an ordinary guy and didn’t know about her being a mafia princess, turns out to be the nephew of a rival mafia group. Shenanigans ensue.
The romance was pretty good, but there weren’t more romantic moments between the couple. The plot started getting so mafia heavy halfway through and it was quite confusing and exhausting to listen to.
This didn’t read well as a stand-alone, in my opinion. I felt like I missed a lot since this is the spin-off/ second generation characters to Katee Robert’s O’Malley series, which I haven’t read. This book might be better if you have.
*audio listened on scribd
Enemies-to-lovers, mafia-Romeo-and-Juliet, captor-captive, and a second chance romance? I’m sold.
The heroine discovers that her boyfriend, who she thought was an ordinary guy and didn’t know about her being a mafia princess, turns out to be the nephew of a rival mafia group. Shenanigans ensue.
The romance was pretty good, but there weren’t more romantic moments between the couple. The plot started getting so mafia heavy halfway through and it was quite confusing and exhausting to listen to.
This didn’t read well as a stand-alone, in my opinion. I felt like I missed a lot since this is the spin-off/ second generation characters to Katee Robert’s O’Malley series, which I haven’t read. This book might be better if you have.
*audio listened on scribd
August 25, 2021
God I've been waiting for this book since it was announced, I literally counted down the days... And I regret it. It wasn't /bad/ per se but it just wasn't very good.
The characters we were introduced to in previous books were so out of character, the ages made no sense, and there were a few spelling mistakes that should've been caught by the editor including a couple times that it changed from third to first person for a sentence.
I think my biggest issue with the book was actually Rose's age (and on a separate note you're telling me that the Russian Irish couple who are running the Russian Bratva would name their heir a non Russian or Irish name??) but Rose being 27 was stupid. I appreciate having an older heroine than normal but she was so goddamn naive and childish the whole time that it made no sense for her to be 27, I would've accepted this behaviour from a 21-23 year old but not 27 especially not a 27 year old raised to be heir of one of the biggest syndicates in the US.
Also on the age note- Katee Roberts clearly forgot the ages of her own characters. Keira is described as being in her mid fifties but Keira had Rose at the age of 22 and now Rose is 27 so she'd be 49. And then Keira being the one that wants to retire and travel??? No way, she would never be the one that wants that, the Keira we were introduced to in the O'Malley series would never want that, that's got Dmitri written all over it.
In all honesty I didn't care much for the couple themselves because the characters didn't work for me. Dante was fine and all but his story was just bleh, he's supposed to be this incredible fighter and killer who's feared by his uncle but we don't actually see why and Rose was so boring. She wasn't an interesting character and she seemed like a shit choice for heir not gonna lie.
Then the sisters were stupid too because oh hey four sisters - the main character of the first book who doesn't have a lot of defining characteristics, the angry one who fights, the super innocent one who wants true love, and the one everyone leans on- yeah we've met them before in Neon Gods. I think Katee Roberts just pressed copy paste for them all.
End of the day the book was fine, it wasn't anything special but I don't regret buying it. If you just enjoy romance books you'll probably enjoy it but if you loved the O'Malley series as much as I did then don't expect too much.
The characters we were introduced to in previous books were so out of character, the ages made no sense, and there were a few spelling mistakes that should've been caught by the editor including a couple times that it changed from third to first person for a sentence.
I think my biggest issue with the book was actually Rose's age (and on a separate note you're telling me that the Russian Irish couple who are running the Russian Bratva would name their heir a non Russian or Irish name??) but Rose being 27 was stupid. I appreciate having an older heroine than normal but she was so goddamn naive and childish the whole time that it made no sense for her to be 27, I would've accepted this behaviour from a 21-23 year old but not 27 especially not a 27 year old raised to be heir of one of the biggest syndicates in the US.
Also on the age note- Katee Roberts clearly forgot the ages of her own characters. Keira is described as being in her mid fifties but Keira had Rose at the age of 22 and now Rose is 27 so she'd be 49. And then Keira being the one that wants to retire and travel??? No way, she would never be the one that wants that, the Keira we were introduced to in the O'Malley series would never want that, that's got Dmitri written all over it.
In all honesty I didn't care much for the couple themselves because the characters didn't work for me. Dante was fine and all but his story was just bleh, he's supposed to be this incredible fighter and killer who's feared by his uncle but we don't actually see why and Rose was so boring. She wasn't an interesting character and she seemed like a shit choice for heir not gonna lie.
Then the sisters were stupid too because oh hey four sisters - the main character of the first book who doesn't have a lot of defining characteristics, the angry one who fights, the super innocent one who wants true love, and the one everyone leans on- yeah we've met them before in Neon Gods. I think Katee Roberts just pressed copy paste for them all.
End of the day the book was fine, it wasn't anything special but I don't regret buying it. If you just enjoy romance books you'll probably enjoy it but if you loved the O'Malley series as much as I did then don't expect too much.
August 28, 2021
This had an promising start, and some cute banter- but it was just filled with tons of telling instead of showing, one of my biggest pet peeves. Because of that, i couldn’t get into this book. The reader was meant to believe that Rose was some tough mafia boss lady, yet nothing she did or said proved that. It was just told to us. Same with Dante, he was the same but different. But just told to us, instead of shown through actions. This also was riddled with errors- some misspelled words and the third person point of view sometimes switched to first person randomly. Plus the spice was no where near what I’d be expect from this author. DNF 58%.
December 4, 2021
This was crap.
September 11, 2021
3.5 stars
this was sweet but expected something a little darker or a bit more.
this was sweet but expected something a little darker or a bit more.
July 30, 2022
Mafia romances.... still can't tell if they're for me. But I do love Katee Robert.... so.....
June 15, 2023
Thank you to Katee Robert for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book in the next generation O'Malleys series. It can definitely be read as a standalone but the hints/easter eggs are going to make you want to read the first series which I highly recommend. You by no means have to to enjoy this book but they're wonderful.
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f lovers to enemies to lovers
-some epic hate sex
-some light kidnapping
-close-proximity
-elements of second chance romance
-forbidden romance
-steamy cottagecore
This book starts off with a bang and just doesn't let up. Rose is really the center of the story and I really enjoyed it. Her loyalty to her family, her concerns, the stakes in this book were real and the forbideness of the relationship was felt throughout. Her conflicted feelings about Dante. The winks at the prior books how all of her aunts and uncles got together. Kidnapping is really a love language to the O'Malleys. I'm so excited to read more in this series.
Rating: 4
Steam: 4
This is the first book in the next generation O'Malleys series. It can definitely be read as a standalone but the hints/easter eggs are going to make you want to read the first series which I highly recommend. You by no means have to to enjoy this book but they're wonderful.
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f lovers to enemies to lovers
-some epic hate sex
-some light kidnapping
-close-proximity
-elements of second chance romance
-forbidden romance
-steamy cottagecore
This book starts off with a bang and just doesn't let up. Rose is really the center of the story and I really enjoyed it. Her loyalty to her family, her concerns, the stakes in this book were real and the forbideness of the relationship was felt throughout. Her conflicted feelings about Dante. The winks at the prior books how all of her aunts and uncles got together. Kidnapping is really a love language to the O'Malleys. I'm so excited to read more in this series.
Rating: 4
Steam: 4
August 11, 2021
"The audacity of that motherfucker to say they weren’t done. She shot him. Any normal person would take that as a clear sign that things were over."
Omg i loved this alot the beginning starts off with a bang, I liked that Dante was more sure of his love for Rose before she was. Wish their would have been a bit more action and mafia aspect we are told more than shown those parts. I haven't read the other books but yes can read this as a standalone it's just a lot of info to take in. I'm excited to read more of the sisters. Great read.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for a honest review all opinions are my own.
Omg i loved this alot the beginning starts off with a bang, I liked that Dante was more sure of his love for Rose before she was. Wish their would have been a bit more action and mafia aspect we are told more than shown those parts. I haven't read the other books but yes can read this as a standalone it's just a lot of info to take in. I'm excited to read more of the sisters. Great read.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for a honest review all opinions are my own.
January 22, 2023
This was my first Katee Robert book and boy, let me tell ya, it won’t be the last. I had so much fun with this one
September 26, 2021
I absolutely devoured this book. I started it around 6 PM and finished just after midnight. This was actually my first legit mafia romance. I’ll admit that it was a bit difficult keeping up with the politics, but it didn’t take away from the plot and intensity for me. Anything that I’d even think to critique is really what I’d think of as a typical nuance of a dark mafia romance. As far as this rating goes? Just vibes. The book was exciting. The spice was great. I’m such a fan of Katee’s work and the inclusivity she consistently upholds. This didn’t disappoint.
I had Google Translate up for a lot of the book to figure out what Dante was saying to Rose and I was DYING. His love for her was dark and palpable. There was so much fire within these pages, I just couldn’t put the book down.
I do wish we could’ve gotten more to the relationship that built up for Dante and Rose. I feel like there were some strange time jumps and it made the vibe feel insta-love (not a fav for me). But the tough-her-and-I’ll-kill-you vibes made it all better. Like the rest of Dante and his I’ll burn the world down for you was just everything.
I know this is a recent release, but I’m excited for it to start circulating. I really really enjoyed this book! It did feel like it ended kind of abruptly, but I fully understand that’s because it’s setting up for the next book since is the first of the series. I’ll be excited for the continuation.
I had Google Translate up for a lot of the book to figure out what Dante was saying to Rose and I was DYING. His love for her was dark and palpable. There was so much fire within these pages, I just couldn’t put the book down.
I do wish we could’ve gotten more to the relationship that built up for Dante and Rose. I feel like there were some strange time jumps and it made the vibe feel insta-love (not a fav for me). But the tough-her-and-I’ll-kill-you vibes made it all better. Like the rest of Dante and his I’ll burn the world down for you was just everything.
I know this is a recent release, but I’m excited for it to start circulating. I really really enjoyed this book! It did feel like it ended kind of abruptly, but I fully understand that’s because it’s setting up for the next book since is the first of the series. I’ll be excited for the continuation.
August 28, 2021
Rose is just too stupid for me to like. I couldn't, for the life of me, vibe with her.
August 25, 2021
AHHHHH, adding this to my favorites shelf! I love how this has the same "theme" as the original O'Malley series. The same tone with the storyline and spice level. You don't have to read those books in order to read this series, but I highly recommend you do! One of the better traditionally published mafia books/series I've came across. I love how well written Katee started this mafia spin-off next gen series. Rose can hold her own. I think I would have loved to see a prologue with Rose & Dante meeting or had some glimpses of their relationship as it seemed left outt. But I'm overlooking it, because the rest of the book totally intrigued me as there's SO MUCH TO COME! I'm excited for Lorelei and Sasha's stories!
I LOVE THIS COVER and now I'm curious to know if the others will follow suite...which I have a HIGH bet they will be!
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I LOVE THIS COVER and now I'm curious to know if the others will follow suite...which I have a HIGH bet they will be!
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
August 22, 2021
I love me a Katee Roberts book. Lately, I’ve been in one of those funks where I’ve DNFed like ten books, nothing grabbing my attention. I knew what I needed: a Katee Robert’s read. The Bastard’s Betrayal delivered everything I love: a great storyline, a little danger, and a smoking hot romance.
One thing I love about this one: the badass heroine. Rose doesn’t let anyone get in her way. Dante is an amazing counterpart, and I love how they meet.
This was a couldn’t-put-down read! All I wanted was to continue reading every time I had to stop. Another winner!
One thing I love about this one: the badass heroine. Rose doesn’t let anyone get in her way. Dante is an amazing counterpart, and I love how they meet.
This was a couldn’t-put-down read! All I wanted was to continue reading every time I had to stop. Another winner!
September 10, 2021
I received an arc for a honest review.
OMG. I LOVED this book so much!!! The plot was seriously so well thought of, planned out. I totally devoured it!!!
Dante pretended to be someone else, and Rose fell for him. When her father told her the truth about Dante's identity, you wouldn't expect what she would do at all. Even after that, Dante couldn't let her go. So what did he do, he kidnapped her at her wedding day. It was EPIC!!! Those hate s*x, expect them. Totally fire and steamy. There were twists and turns that you would totally not expect. Another amazing read by Katee!!
PICK THIS ONE UP!!!
OMG. I LOVED this book so much!!! The plot was seriously so well thought of, planned out. I totally devoured it!!!
Dante pretended to be someone else, and Rose fell for him. When her father told her the truth about Dante's identity, you wouldn't expect what she would do at all. Even after that, Dante couldn't let her go. So what did he do, he kidnapped her at her wedding day. It was EPIC!!! Those hate s*x, expect them. Totally fire and steamy. There were twists and turns that you would totally not expect. Another amazing read by Katee!!
PICK THIS ONE UP!!!
August 28, 2021
I really need to read the other books because I’m so intrigued by the little information that we got!!
I really love Rose and Dante and the way their relationship starts off kind of rocky and Rose definitely takes it personally. So much so that she shoots him after telling him that she faked orgasms 💀 she essentially killed him twice 🤣 don’t worry… it turns him on 🥵
I really love Rose and Dante and the way their relationship starts off kind of rocky and Rose definitely takes it personally. So much so that she shoots him after telling him that she faked orgasms 💀 she essentially killed him twice 🤣 don’t worry… it turns him on 🥵
December 6, 2021
*2.5 stars
I don't think this technically counts as reading because I skimmed through the second half. I liked the characters, especially the hero and his single-minded focus on the heroine, but this book was too drawn out for me. Literally all the drama could've been solved a lot sooner instead if stretching it out. All that page count instead could've been spent in developing their relationship beyond the fucking.
There wasn't enough development and I don't understand why mafia romance authors neglect the impact of intimacy beyond sex. They have that chemistry, yes. But give me something to show that it's not all there is to them. There were times I did see the intimacy as well, not gonna lie, but those scenes weren't enough to be completely convincing. Sometimes I just want the characters to think about each other with fondness and appreciation, instead of every though ultimately leading to them getting aroused.
Besides, the whole "we can't be together" shit was legit but so so boring because of how dragged out it was. Rose's reluctance to just admit her feelings became annoying after a point. She is an alpha woman, which I appreciate. But why, pray tell, can't she defend herself? I would expect a mafia heir to be physically capable as well, no matter their small size. This was so unrealistic given the fact that Rose will be running the family.
But I did really appreciate the inclusivity with Anya being a lesbian. Rose's family being a non-conformist and Rose's sisters truly being strong and capable. Her parents pissed me off though. Also, I liked Matteo.
I don't think this technically counts as reading because I skimmed through the second half. I liked the characters, especially the hero and his single-minded focus on the heroine, but this book was too drawn out for me. Literally all the drama could've been solved a lot sooner instead if stretching it out. All that page count instead could've been spent in developing their relationship beyond the fucking.
There wasn't enough development and I don't understand why mafia romance authors neglect the impact of intimacy beyond sex. They have that chemistry, yes. But give me something to show that it's not all there is to them. There were times I did see the intimacy as well, not gonna lie, but those scenes weren't enough to be completely convincing. Sometimes I just want the characters to think about each other with fondness and appreciation, instead of every though ultimately leading to them getting aroused.
Besides, the whole "we can't be together" shit was legit but so so boring because of how dragged out it was. Rose's reluctance to just admit her feelings became annoying after a point. She is an alpha woman, which I appreciate. But why, pray tell, can't she defend herself? I would expect a mafia heir to be physically capable as well, no matter their small size. This was so unrealistic given the fact that Rose will be running the family.
But I did really appreciate the inclusivity with Anya being a lesbian. Rose's family being a non-conformist and Rose's sisters truly being strong and capable. Her parents pissed me off though. Also, I liked Matteo.
Read
August 28, 2021Not for me.
Strong heroine.
Very much tell not show with some mafia business.
Close proximity relationship as he kidnaps her on her wedding day to another man.
Despite her taunts that she has been with others in their time apart, neither were.
Strong heroine.
Very much tell not show with some mafia business.
Close proximity relationship as he kidnaps her on her wedding day to another man.
Despite her taunts that she has been with others in their time apart, neither were.
August 18, 2021
Well, this was fun! I love a darker romance every now and again, and with fake identities, bullets fired, a kidnapping plot, and feuding mafia families who could rival the Montagues and Capulets with the decades of blood they have stained on their hands, The Bastard's Betrayal delivers on steam as well as back-stabbing.
It's a lovers-to-enemies then enemies-back-to-lovers good time!
The book begins when Rose Romanov, mafia princess and future heiress, learns that her vanilla civilian boyfriend isn't as vanilla as she thought he was. He's Dante Verducci. A notorious family rival. And he's been working undercover to probe her for secrets, for weaknesses, the whole time!
Rightfully pissed, and still reeling from the betrayal, she ends the relationship--with pistol in hand. Then she consents to an arranged marriage with the heir of the Capparelli clan, Romeo. An act which will aid in solidifying a new family alliance.
Dante isn't happy when he catches wind of this plan. In fact, he is downright incensed. Inflamed. Determined. He refuses to let Rose go through with it, to wed any man who isn't him because they have something, because she is his, he knows it in his bones. So what does he do? Absconds her from her own wedding. Yep, he kidnaps her right under her family's nose!
After all, what is a man in love if not a fool who throws every bit of sense (and in this case, life expectancy) out the window to stake claim to his woman?
I haven't read the O'Malley series this branches off from, but I landed in this book just fine. Murder attempts, light kidnapping, hate sex, etc. are all on the menu so if that isn't your thing then you might as well cover your eyes and scurry away now. If it is something you like from time to time, however, sit back, let your wrists be bound, and enjoy the ride!
Overall, I liked the power struggle that existed between the Romanov, Verducci, and Capparelli families. I do think we could've gotten a better glimpse into the mafia world itself, though. That was hinted at, glazed over, rather than flushed out.
I think Dante and Rose have enough spice that enemies-to-lovers fans will be happy, however. Rose is not afraid to pull punches (or triggers) and is feisty to the core, though she can be surprisingly vulnerable when she wants to be. Dante, on the other hand, is devoted, dangerous, seductive, and possessive in a way that's only hot in fiction. Possessive men in real life, I give a hard pass then shove them out the door. Possessive men in fiction, I flutter them my "come hither" eyelashes and prepare to swoon. Makes no sense, I know, but, hey, I don't make the rules! Dante's softer traits outweigh the possessive part of him, anyway, so it all balances out.
Robert also sets the stage for future books to come. Rose's sisters are all fierce in their own way, none of them afraid to dive into the life, taking names, threatening to bust up a few faces, so I'll be interested to see what dangerous liaisons they get caught up in themselves. 😏
Many thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC!
BOOK BLOG
It's a lovers-to-enemies then enemies-back-to-lovers good time!
The book begins when Rose Romanov, mafia princess and future heiress, learns that her vanilla civilian boyfriend isn't as vanilla as she thought he was. He's Dante Verducci. A notorious family rival. And he's been working undercover to probe her for secrets, for weaknesses, the whole time!
Rightfully pissed, and still reeling from the betrayal, she ends the relationship--with pistol in hand. Then she consents to an arranged marriage with the heir of the Capparelli clan, Romeo. An act which will aid in solidifying a new family alliance.
Dante isn't happy when he catches wind of this plan. In fact, he is downright incensed. Inflamed. Determined. He refuses to let Rose go through with it, to wed any man who isn't him because they have something, because she is his, he knows it in his bones. So what does he do? Absconds her from her own wedding. Yep, he kidnaps her right under her family's nose!
After all, what is a man in love if not a fool who throws every bit of sense (and in this case, life expectancy) out the window to stake claim to his woman?
I haven't read the O'Malley series this branches off from, but I landed in this book just fine. Murder attempts, light kidnapping, hate sex, etc. are all on the menu so if that isn't your thing then you might as well cover your eyes and scurry away now. If it is something you like from time to time, however, sit back, let your wrists be bound, and enjoy the ride!
Overall, I liked the power struggle that existed between the Romanov, Verducci, and Capparelli families. I do think we could've gotten a better glimpse into the mafia world itself, though. That was hinted at, glazed over, rather than flushed out.
I think Dante and Rose have enough spice that enemies-to-lovers fans will be happy, however. Rose is not afraid to pull punches (or triggers) and is feisty to the core, though she can be surprisingly vulnerable when she wants to be. Dante, on the other hand, is devoted, dangerous, seductive, and possessive in a way that's only hot in fiction. Possessive men in real life, I give a hard pass then shove them out the door. Possessive men in fiction, I flutter them my "come hither" eyelashes and prepare to swoon. Makes no sense, I know, but, hey, I don't make the rules! Dante's softer traits outweigh the possessive part of him, anyway, so it all balances out.
Robert also sets the stage for future books to come. Rose's sisters are all fierce in their own way, none of them afraid to dive into the life, taking names, threatening to bust up a few faces, so I'll be interested to see what dangerous liaisons they get caught up in themselves. 😏
Many thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC!
BOOK BLOG
January 7, 2022
This was a solid 3.5 stars! If only goodreads would put in the half star ratings. This book was pretty good, especially for my first mafia romance, and Katee is always a go to author for me!
March 17, 2022
2.75 stars i’m sorry i thought it was so boring 😭 this is the first katee robert book i didnt rlly like :/
August 1, 2021
Y'all are not ready for Rose.
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