Title: Queen of Thorns: A Royal Organized Crime Romance
Author(s): Bella Di Corte
Series: The Fausti Family #2
Also in this series: Man of Honor: A Royal Organized Crime Romance: Prologue
Published by Self-published on September 13, 2020
Pages: 314
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance, Mafia
Source: Kindle Unlimited
Format: eBook
Purchase: Amazon
Rating:
Series Rating:
The moment Scarlett Rose appeared in the window of her parents’ dance studio, twirling like a beautiful figurine in a music box, she became mine. Irrevocably.
She knew me better than I knew the lines of my own hands, though I had never confessed to her whose blood ran through my veins, the famiglia that I belonged to. My legacy created a savage beast that lurked beneath my skin, ready to battle for family and honor, but he only went to war for one—her.
There was one catch, an arrangement she didn’t know about. I sent her away so that she could follow her stars. But now, I was back to retrieve what had always belonged to me—my ballerina girl.
Book II in an eight-part Royal Organized Crime Romance saga.
** Previously released as The Beautiful Years II **
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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Queen of Thorns by Bella Di Corte continues the story of Scarlett and Brando. This is the second book in the Fausti Family series. It picks three and half years after the conclusion of Man of Honor.
Scarlett lives is Paris and is slowly becoming a famous ballerina like her grandmother. Despite her achievement despair wrapped around her like a shroud. Half of her soul was thousands of miles away. Brando Fausti believed his ballerina girl would go places, and he wanted her to be best and share her gift with the world. Hence, when the opportunity came for to perform in Paris, he all on board even it meant losing half of his soul.
The story focused Scarlett’s success in Paris while she struggled with missing Brando. The reader got the chance to see Brando and Scarlett re-unite and watched as they tried to overcome the many obstacles facing their relationship. While apart they the barely lived, they only existed for the moment they would be together again.
I couldn’t wait to see these two re-unite but when they did there were several times, I wished I could knock their heads together. Stubborn pride, insecurities, immaturity and secrets threatened their relationship. The drama, angst and the constant push and pull made me want to scream and shake them.
Brando has yet to tell Scarlett about his family ties. He has distanced himself from his father’s money, legacy, and ties to the mafia so far. However, the Fausti name has proven to be powerful and just the sound of it drives fear into may. Not sure how long he can keep that secret, especially now that she shares the Fausti name.
Secondary characters from the previous book appeared in this installment. Some have shown growth, then there were those who still have not gotten their lives together. The story introduced a new character, who will prove to be a thorn in both Scarlett and Brando’s side.
Once again, no mafia activities took place in this installment. The story focused mainly on the epic romance between the main characters
The story focused mainly on the epic romance between the main characters resulting in it moving at a slow pace. Despite the slowness of the story, I did not find it to be dull. It may not have had the excitement I hoped for, but it was still an entertaining read.
I can’t tell you how much I enjoy the author’s writing. She held me captive with her words and I could not get enough.
“Your body will remember, your heart will never forget, and your soul will forever be one with mine.”
Overall, although not quite what I had expected I enjoyed it more than I did the first book. I am looking forward to see what next is in store for Brando and Scarlet.
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Kindle Unlimited
About Bella Di Corte
Bella Di Corte writes criminal romance that will steal your heart. She brings to life stories of men who walk the line between irredeemable and savable, and the women who force them to feel. She’s known for her rich world building and strong characters. She’s also an International Bestselling Author. Apart from writing, Bella loves to spend time with her husband, daughter, family, and four dogs. She also loves to read, listen to music, cook recipes that were passed down to her, and take photographs. She loves to connect with readers, so don’t hesitate to fill out this form if you’d like to reach out. She’s also on Facebook & Instagram (where she attempts to show off the previously mentioned photos). Bella was born and raised in New Orleans, a place she considers a creative playground.
To learn more about Bella & her books, visit here!
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ha wanting to knock characters heads together is one of my favorite things. Great review Nadene
ha wanting to knock characters heads together is one of my favorite things. Great review Nadene
Sounds like I need to read the series in order to fully appreciate this one. Great review.
Yes you do need to read the series.
Yes you do need to read the series.
Always love to see that this one was entertaining, this is a new to me author. You definitely have me intrigued by it all despite the stubborness of the characters.
Great review.
Always love to see that this one was entertaining, this is a new to me author. You definitely have me intrigued by it all despite the stubborness of the characters.
Great review.
LOL – I liked that you wanted to knock their heads together! LOL
LOL – I liked that you wanted to knock their heads together! LOL
I know that feeling – about wanting to knock some sense into the characters as I read the books!!
Glad you still enjoyed it even at a slower pace. Great review.
Glad you still enjoyed it even at a slower pace. Great review.
I love the cover!!
I love the cover!!
The cover model is quite arresting!
The cover model is quite arresting!