I immediately dived into Rocco, the third book in the Ruin and Revenge series upon completion of Luca. I was curious to learn how this story would unfold as the hero of this installment was a cold-blooded killer. The second most feared enforcer for the mob. I met him in the previous installment and I recognized that beneath his cold-blooded exterior he harboured deep-seated pain and I was desirous of learning what made him tick. What I learned was heart-breaking and painful.
Rocco knew only pain and loss for most of his life until the Grace Mantini, the daughter of an under-boss, entered his life. Despite their ten-year age difference, they forged an unbreakable bond. He became her protector, her best friend and her lover. They had plans to spend the rest of their lives together, but when Rocco was forced to kill to protect her their dreams were shattered. That incident changed their lives forever. Rocco became an unfeeling and cold-hearted enforcer who never questioned his orders to kill.
Grace left home after that fateful incident and spent most of her time trying to live her life separate from the mob. However, she would learn that no matter how far she ran, she could never out run her past.
This was a beautiful written second chance romance, and I enjoyed every moment spent in Grace and Rocco’s world. Watching them both find their way back to each other was such a delight. Their moments together were intense and passionate and their chemistry was hot enough to burn a hole through my headphones.
The flashbacks provided by the author allows the reader to understand the horrors they suffered along with how their relationship had developed. Reading about their past and watching them in the present fuelled my need to see them get their happily ever after. However, before they could accomplish that, there were several obstacles they needed to overcome.
The story had its share of danger and drama one would expect with a mafia romance. It was fast paced, engaging and emotional.
My issue with this installment was how it ended. I had hope to get an answer regarding Rocco’s heritage, but that information was never revealed.
Narration
Aiden Snow continues to narrate, and he did an excellent job as I expected. He brought life to the story and the characters.
Conclusion/Recommendation
Rocco delivered a steamy and passionate second chance romance that will put a smile on your face and leave you feeling contented.
Other Books in the Series
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About Sarah Castille
A New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of over 20 novels, Sarah Castille is known for contemporary romance that is edgy, sexy and scorching hot. A recovering lawyer with a fondness for dirty-talking alpha males, she lives in British Columbia with her husband, three children and a family of owls. Sarah’s books have been published by Samhain Publishing, Macmillan and Sourcebooks Casablanca, and have received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly as well as being included in their Top Ten Picks and Best Summer Reads. Her books have been named Amazon’s Best Romance Books of the Year, RT Book Reviews Top Picks, and have won the Holt Medallion for Excellence in Literary Fiction as well as numerous reader’s choice and romance writers’ awards. Sarah is a member of the Romance Writers of America, the Vancouver Island Romance Association, International Thriller Writers Inc., and the Writer’s Union of Canada. Sarah is represented by Laura Bradford of the Bradford Literary Agency. For rights, media, or other inquiries, please contact Laura Bradford at laura@bradfordlit.com.
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Great review. I just LOVED these books so much. She really handled the mob boss/mafia theme so well. I couldn’t get enough.
Thanks. This was indeed a wonderful series. I agree with you on how she handled the themes. You can’t help but fall for these guys.
Awesome review and I love the covers! I am glad that you enjoyed these books!
Thanks Cindy, it is a wonderful series.
Wow I need to check this series out what an unusual premise. Thanks Nadene
Yes, it is. Thanks Debbie.
I haven’t read this one but I’ve enjoyed this author before. Lovely review!
Thanks DJ
Not my sub genre, but my best friend loves mafia romance so I will suggest to her.
I love the sounds of this series. It sounds like my kind of read. I’ll definitely check this one out 😉
Yes. it is a great series. I hope you enjoy it.
Not my cup of tea, but I’m glad you enjoyed it! Hopefully the next book answers any lingering questions you have
This sounds like a book I would enjoy. That cover is gorgeous!
I hope you get the chance to read the series.
I’ve heard of Castille, but never read any of her work. This sounds like such a great read, and it looks like I’ll love the series! Hugs, RO
The description sounds awesome. I might be in the mood for some good romance.
I love a fast-paced, emotional, and passionate second chance romance. Flashbacks are always so helpful in understanding the current situation. Great Review Nadene!
Lindy@ A Bookish Escape
Bummer that you were left with unanswered questions.
Yeah, I was hoping to learn about his heritage, but she left it hanging and I don’t if there will be a next book. I hate when that happens.
I seriously need to start this series! Thanks for sharing your review 🙂
Megan | The Ginger Mom Reader
You are welcome Megan. I am sure you would enjoy it.
This sounds like another good one! It would have been nice to get your questions answered about Rocco but it sounds like it was an enjoyable read overall.
I must admit it was, despite not getting that piece of information.
I am glad you enjoyed it.
Gayathri @ Elgee Writes
Thanks.
I don’t like having ending’s with questions left unanswered but other than that it sounds good.
Same here Mary, I was like what the hell and the thing is I am nit sure if anymore books will be forthcoming.
i need this series in my life
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Thanks