This book was an ok read for me. I thought the overall story was good but it just didn’t hit all the way for me. I liked Gabriel’s character development more than Harper but feel that Harper wasn’t as developed as a character the way I felt he was. I would have liked to see more for Harper. I also feel like the details in his development made you want to really hate him. It was a little too dark for my comfort.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Trish Annhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTrish Ann2024-02-09 09:43:202024-02-16 08:36:02Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Trish Ann
I’ve been a die hard fan of this author since the first titan series that they did, so when I saw this had released i was right there ready to get it. I loved the trope in this book; lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers. It is an HEA, but PLEASE read the content warnings before you jump in to the book. I made the mistake of not paying attention was quite thrown off by some of the things that happened in this book. That being said, I think the author did a beautiful job of managing the trauma that comes with some of the events of the books, and I look forward to the next!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lucy Machardhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLucy Machard2024-02-08 22:46:202024-02-16 08:35:32Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Lucy Machard
This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up by her. I enjoy her writing skills as well as her attention to details that make her stories pop. Her characters are connectible and certainly bring heat and romance to the story. This book is no different. This is the first book in a new series for this author and what a great start it is. I enjoyed how I was pulled into the story by the characters. I enjoyed watching their growth as well as their attraction throughout the story. Their chemistry is off the charts for sure. This is a second chance romance story but is their love strong enough to survive the evil that is lurking? You don’t want to miss what happens with these characters for sure. This is a fast paced, engaging story that is hard to put down and easy to read. I really enjoyed this book and what the characters bring to the story. I highly recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2024-02-08 17:06:122024-02-15 12:10:34Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Bobbi Wagner
Deceptively Yours is the first book in the Titans of Chicago series by Anise Storm. This is the start of a new spin-off series (from Titans of Manhattan), this time set in Chicago. I have loved reading the Titans of Manhattan, so it was a given that I would be diving into this book as soon as it released. This is a bit of a darker romantic suspense with trigger warnings for violence, SA, and more- so keep that in mind before diving in. The story is a second chance romance with forced proximity, painful past history, hurt, tension, chemistry, sparks, sizzle, emotion, lies, secrets, angst, drama, tension, intrigue, action, flashbacks, and is told from a duel (alternating) POV. There were parts of the story which were heart-wrenching at times, where I really felt for the character/s. And as I mentioned above, some of the subject-matter could be considered triggers for some readers – so be warned. This is not a light and fluffy read. Our FMC especially, has been through the wringer. Though, I have to be honest here, I have really struggled with my thoughts on this book and how to put them into my review. As I have mentioned, I have read most of Ms. Storm’s books now and have enjoyed my reading journey with her. But I really struggled reading this book for numerous reasons, one of which was that it felt like it was (almost) written by a completely different author, and not up to Ms. Storm’s usual ‘polish’ (so sorry, Ms. Storm). Let me try and explain. First of all, our MC’s are only 26 and so much has happened to them over the years- as they have gone from childhood friends to teen sweethearts, to then being ripped apart by harrowing circumstances at the age of sixteen. So, I really feel that these two needed to be slightly older now (perhaps 29/30) to really ‘fit’ the storyline/circumstances/life better. But, in saying that, there was a lot of dialogue/inner thoughts which ‘sounded’ much older and more ‘formal’- especially when we were reading from a sixteen-year-olds perspective. There were times that the dialogue just didn’t feel realistic for the situation or characters circumstances/ages, which pulled me out of the story and disrupted the ‘flow’. Then there was repeated information, in the form of inner thoughts/dialogue which was frustrating having to ‘hear’ something we already knew, repeatedly. After a while it just seemed like manufactured angst/drama. Then there was the use of wrong terms (from my perspective) which pulled me out of the story and had me re-reading to confirm what I just read. Which again, is my own perspective/‘issues’ with this book- as others might not even notice or care. There were also terms, sentences/dialogue that seemed quite ‘clunky/bumpy/unneeded/confusing, which made for a choppy feel, and again, pulled me out of the story. And the tenses of the story were in conflict at times, too. I feel that most of these issues could have been caught during the beta read/editing process and would have made the story so much more polished — made it flow/feel so much better (but again, this is just my personal opinion). Then there were the characters – who frustrated me to death with their miscommunications/misunderstandings/manufacturing angst and drama- I went from really feeling for them to wanting to knock their heads together, and that made it hard for me to fully connect with them and invest in their story. I am not trying to sound ‘nit-picking’ here, just trying to convey how I feel, and why this just didn’t connect with me the way I had hoped…… But having loved Ms. Storm’s other works, I am looking forward to seeing what comes next. Happy reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-02-08 01:22:532024-02-14 13:08:43Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series Book #1) by Anise Storm – Review by Angela Hayes
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199274632-deceptively-yours” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago, #1)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1704305907l/199274632._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199274632-deceptively-yours”>Deceptively Yours</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14696494.Anise_Storm”>Anise Storm</a><br/> My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6245376024″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> Gabriel and Harper were like two peas in a pod growing up. They had the perfect relationship as teens, or so Gabriel thought. They had many plans of going to the same college, living together, and much more. All those dreams go down the drain though when Harper breaks up with Gabriel and moves on. She blocks his number and all of his social media accounts effectively cutting him off. She thought she was doing a good thing by saving him from her horrible secret, her horrible home life. Now it has been a decade and Harper is back in Chicago to once again save Gabriel. Or so she thinks. How will Gabriel feel about seeing her? He spent all those years hating her but seeing her as a grown woman is making that hard. Will they get their happily ever after? I enjoyed this book a lot. It had the same vibes as her other series, The Titans of Manhatten, and I devoured those books. I’m looking forward to the next installment of this series. <br/><br/> <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Charlisa Wahtomy-Albahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCharlisa Wahtomy-Alba2024-02-07 23:04:582024-02-15 12:19:40Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba
The Titans are back, and can I tell you I was so excited….starting Deceptively Yours, which is the first book in the Titans of Chicago series. I am a HUGE fan of this author and I devoured this book and just could not put it down. All the feels of romance, drama, greed, danger, heartbreak, chemistry and some very steamy moments…Harper and Gabriel went through so much…it gutted me in many parts of their story….but I LOVED this book so much. I am eagerly anticipating on more from this series and I cannot wait.
How do you go from being together and having all of your future plans you want just go up in flames in a split second? The story of Harper and Gabriel is this story. All Harper and Gabriel want is a future together no matter what, but when a tragedy destroys those plans…Harper does nothing but try and protect the love of her life…Gabriel…but with lies. Split apart and no contact for ten years, Harper now is trying to protect Gabriel even though he wants nothing to do with the person whom tore his heart apart years ago. Harper is broken and feels like damaged good….she tries until the ends of the earth to speak to Gabriel..when a chance encounter leads them together again…hurt and anger along with love bring them close.
When hard truths surface that put Harper in danger more than ever….will Gabriel be able to be there for her when she needs him the most…..definitely read and find out.
I do not want to give anything away..but this story gutted me….and there are trigger warnings, so be advised….but this story was fantastic.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorralei Hoernerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorralei Hoerner2024-02-07 21:42:002024-02-16 08:19:33Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Lorralei Hoerner
Deceptively Yours and I just didn’t see eye to eye! There should definitely be trigger warnings involved. I had high hopes for this book and it fell flat. The story seemed forced and at times the book didn’t flow. I think I kept looking for something that was missing and it made it hard to get into and really love the book. I will not let this deter me from this author though and I will try other books by her.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kay Striteskyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKay Stritesky2024-02-07 19:42:032024-02-16 08:19:09Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Kay Stritesky
WOW, HOLY MOLY!!!! This book truly grabbed me by my heart, my emotions and still has not let go. Growing up together Harper and Gabriel fell in love and made plans to attend the same college together. Harper torn and hiding things from him breaks up with him and go on to live their lives apart. She blocks him everywhere she can because she does not want him in danger and he spends 10 years hating her for breaking him. 10 years later she is back, and wants to explain it all to him, she wants to explain why she had to walk away but Gabriel is scared, he was so hurt by her in the past. This book was simply well written. The book has trauma, love, murder, and second change romance. It was a fast paced read that I did not want to put down and wanted to stay in the world of Harper and Gabriel. I can not wait to see what the author does with this series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heidi Eich Woodringhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeidi Eich Woodring2024-02-07 16:48:342024-02-14 13:04:53Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago, #1) by Anise Storm Review by Heidi Woodring
4.5 stars Oh, Anise you don’t know how happy I am to see another series is out. Deceptively Yours is a deviously dark second chance romance with some trigger warnings. It has romance, steam, spice, chemistry, drama, angst, danger, action and some violence and more that keep those pages turning and before you are ready it is over. The characters are well developed as is the twisty storyline. I wanted to smack them at times. Gabriel and his hatred and Harper who continues to keep the secret of why gave him up all those years ago. Even though 9 years had separated them she could not let the boy now man she loved be in danger. Gabriel never knew what Harper sacrificed for him and he doesn’t want to know. What will he do when he finds out? If he finds out. If you love a dark romance tale and want to know what happens you will have to read it for yourself, and I strongly suggest that you should, or you are missing out on a good tale.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2024-02-07 14:23:352024-02-15 12:01:16Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Jenni Bishop
This isn’t the first book that I have read from this author. I will say that every time I read one of her books, I am just thrown by how well written they are. This book was one that I didn’t put down until I finished it. I had to see what was going to happen. The push and pull between the characters and the way the storyline just comes to life right off the pages. I am in love with everything in the book. The steam was just the right amount, the anger between the characters, the push and pull, the childhood friends, and the tragedy that happened. This book has it all. I couldn’t stop turning the pages, I was drawn into the book that I was feeling everything the characters were feeling. I was getting mad at my husband for even speaking to me. lol. I was completely irrational but I loved every second of it. If you want a book to give you all the feels this is one of them. This also could very well be, one of the top reads for the year so far. I can’t say enough about this book without giving spoilers. Just read it and you will love it as much as I do. Reviewed by: @bbohls
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Barbara Bohlshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBarbara Bohls2024-02-07 10:00:362024-02-15 12:08:58Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Barbara Bohls
From the moment I started reading this book I found it impossible to put down. It is well written, intense and such a great story. I loved the characters. The push and pull between them is captivating and I could have read about it so much more. Even through the hatred, there was an undeniable chemistry and for me that is what I loved the most about them. I thought the story was really strong. It matched the characters so well and I was swept up in what the author was telling us. I love this authors writing style and this book is a great example of why. This book is absolutely fantastic and I loved it from start to finish.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2024-02-07 08:47:422024-02-14 13:11:11Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Kerry Baker
The first thing I would like to say about this book is that it needs a trigger warning. There are discussions of unwanted assault that I believe needs addressed for all readers.
Other than that, the book is interesting. The characters are easy to understand and they obviously care deeply for each other. It is repeated multiple times throughout the book that they are each others first and only love. Quite tedious, actually, hearing it over and over again. It is also a little frustrating watching Harper and Gabriel go back and forth being irritated with each other. The author stimulated my emotions, so obviously they struck a cord when I read this book. I just do not know that the book is for me.
Overall, I would recommend this book to romance lovers. Perhaps this just is not the romance book for me. There are multiple scenes that are not for young adult readers. I do hope this author continues to write other novels because I enjoyed the writing style, I just hope for a less tedious plot.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Allyson Whttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAllyson W2024-02-07 08:30:522024-02-16 08:16:25Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Allyson Ware
I really enjoy reading books by this author. I would for sure pay attention to the trigger warnings at the start of the book, because things… get a little heavy and dark. Anise builds a fantastic world for the Titian’s. Harper and Gabriel’s story starts out sweet and then then it takes a turn for the worse. Harper has to leave due to a family tragedy and breaks Gabriel’s heart in the process. Later when Harper has to come back seeking help She seeks out Gabriel help. Gabriel makes her pay for breaking his heart. These two clash like fire and ice, but the joining is oh so sweet. Lots of spicy scenes to keep one’s heart pitter pattering and blood pressure rising. I enjoyed this book a lot and I hope that Anise writes more into this world!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Crystal Jimmohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCrystal Jimmo2024-02-07 00:10:412024-02-16 08:15:11Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Crystal Jimmo
First off this is probably the only book I’ve read that has had trigger warnings that actually had a note at the beginning noting that.
Harper and Gabriel have become inseparable and have their whole life planned out for their future together. That is until their world gets tossed upside down with the news of Harpers parents dying.
Being whisked off to another state and then being taken advantage of by a family member. She felt forced to break the heart of her soul mate.
Years later and she’s been keeping tabs on Gabriel. Seeing how successful he has become and how life has changed for him over the years. Then tragedy strikes and in the midst of all that Harper has been trying to get what her parents left her.
The truth that she uncovers, the hurt she uncovers, the pain she endures. Will the love that Harper and Gabriel be able to be rekindled and survive?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Devon N Pulliamhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDevon N Pulliam2024-02-06 17:17:432024-02-16 08:13:18Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Devon Pulliam
Another great story from an author I have looked forward to reading more of. Harper and Gabriel have history. Not good history, things were said and done that destroyed their friendship. Now in the face of danger can they depend on each other? Can they forgive and build what was lost. This suspenseful story has so much going on and yet the author kept it smooth going. This is a fast paced page turner. I fell in love with the characters and the parts they played. The story is well written and I am looking forward to seeing where the author takes this series next. What a fantastic contemporary romance. So worth reading. I hope you enjoy the story as much as I do.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Cindy Mayberryhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCindy Mayberry2024-02-06 12:24:412024-02-16 08:12:33Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Cindy Mayberry
This book…wow!! I’ve been a huge fan of this author and this book definitely grabs you and makes you Feel all the feels. Harper and Gabriel pretty much grew up together and are very much in love at 16 years old. They have plans to go to the same college. Gabe can pretty much go anywhere but he’s waiting to see where Harper gets in to Before deciding. Their plans of college together, then living happily ever after come crashing down when they get devastating news one night. With no time to process, their lives change right then and there. Harper can’t think of how to keep Gabriel in the dark about her horrible home life so she does what she can only think is best and that’s break up with him. They both go on to live their own lives. Gabriel hating Harper. Harper missing Gabriel but blocking his # and blocking him on social media until 10 years later when she thinks he’s in danger. How will Gabriel feel About Harper showing up out of the blue spewing all this crazy talk. The chemistry between these two is ridiculously hot. True love never dies…or does it? When Harper gets back to Chicago and tries to explain to Gabriel what’s going on will he believe her, will she be able to save Gabriel or will it be a wasted trip. What will happen when her deepest, darkest secrets are revealed. This book was seriously so good. Cannot wait to read more by this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Mulveyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Mulvey2024-02-06 10:19:322024-02-16 08:11:36Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Michelle Mulvey
This is an intense story. I loved every minute of it. Harper is just trying to set things right after her life goes to hell when her parents die and she is sent to live with her uncle. 10 years later, she is back to try and tell Gabriel, the love that she never gave up on, that he’s in danger. There is so much going on. The action, drama, steam, romance, and so much more makes this a fantastic beginning to the Titans of Chicago series. I couldn’t put this down once I started. I’m looking forward to more from this batch of titans.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2024-02-06 05:49:522024-02-09 14:01:17Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Shelly Kittell
I had to destroy the boy I loved. I ended up destroying myself.
But no well-intended deed ever goes unpunished.
I thought I could set him free by letting him go. Until a tragedy sends me racing to Gabriel Blake- the boy I was once forced to betray.
But his anger and its smoldering embers haven’t yet subsided enough for him to listen to me. Instead of running from his fire, I find myself with a need to feel It, desperate to be burned. Because I deserve to pay for what I did.
GABRIEL
Harper Grimes almost broke me once.
I’d been so sure we would withstand anything, I’d been wrong.
When destiny pushes us together again, all my hatred for her resurfaces.
But anger, contempt, and raw desire are a dangerous combination.
Flames ignite and burn, and I can’t resist the heat.
We’re no longer the same boy and girl.
We’re unrecognizable to each other now, but there’s still something powerful between us.
When danger threatens us both, can our once-pure love destroy a present evil? Or will it bury us beneath its weight for good?
Anise Storm is a USA Today Bestselling author of Contemporary and Dark Romance.A Southern transplant, Anise is married with children. She has a love of football, shoes, and tall, dark heroes. When not spending time with family or traveling, she can be found either curled up with a good book or writing.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Deceptively-Yours-eBook-copy.jpg1200746itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2024-02-06 00:00:562024-02-20 09:23:18Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm
I had to destroy the boy I loved. I ended up destroying myself.
But no well-intended deed ever goes unpunished.
I thought I could set him free by letting him go. Until a tragedy sends me racing to Gabriel Blake- the boy I was once forced to betray.
But his anger and its smoldering embers haven’t yet subsided enough for him to listen to me. Instead of running from his fire, I find myself with a need to feel It, desperate to be burned. Because I deserve to pay for what I did.
GABRIEL
Harper Grimes almost broke me once.
I’d been so sure we would withstand anything, I’d been wrong.
When destiny pushes us together again, all my hatred for her resurfaces.
But anger, contempt, and raw desire are a dangerous combination.
Flames ignite and burn, and I can’t resist the heat.
We’re no longer the same boy and girl.
We’re unrecognizable to each other now, but there’s still something powerful between us.
When danger threatens us both, can our once-pure love destroy a present evil? Or will it bury us beneath its weight for good?
Perfect title, perfectly intriguing book. This is the first book I have read by the incredible Anise Storm, yes this is the second book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. That said, I will certainly be going back to learn more about Viviana and Nazario. Deadly Vengeance is dual perspectives of Luca and Valenzia. Luca has grown up in New Orleans, but after the recent passing of his mother all her secrets come unraveled in the form of her journals. He had grown up thinking he had no father, no family outside of his mother as his maternal great grandparents died shortly before and after his birth. Valenzia has grown up sheltered to the extreme. Her parents have shielded her and her siblings from the harsh realities of not only their lives but the world, and those in it. While she had heard rumors of what her parents had done, she never believed them until she accidentally took her mother’s diaries from home. Instantly she learned that her mother was nothing but omissions and lies, her entire life built on them. Suddenly, she needs to know more, after confronting her mother she goes to Palermo in sure of her mother’s enemies. Luca is out for vengeance on the woman that caused his mother to flee all those years ago from her home. Keeping him from knowing his father, his family and learning his truth heritage. His vengeance for Viviana leads him to Valenzia who is the spitting image of her mother, his plan is set, but when she shows up in his town asking about his father, he takes the chance to take her early. The only thing he didn’t expect was the chemistry, the electricity that ignites not only himself but Valenzia. Who will succeed in their vengeance? Can Valenzia’s father rescue her, or will she be forced to carry out what her mother failed to do? The author’s ability to bring not just the beautiful scenery to life but the characters. You feel their fear in the most visceral moments, and your heart breaks when their hopes crumple. Will the sins of their parents finally have justice or will history repeat? I couldn’t help but devour each page faster than the one before it as a raced through the pages to see what would happen next. Can they truly get a happy ending born of vengeance and pain? I cannot wait to read the next installment and see what will happen next in this Italian Empire.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ayla Phippshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAyla Phipps2023-09-01 21:49:532023-09-14 08:10:43Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Ayla Phipps
I have fastly become a lover of Mafia stories(been reading them like nonstop lmao), so I was extremely excited to read this book and ohhhhh did it give me everything I was looking for on a enemies to lovers Mafia romance story 😍with it being dark and dangerous. Filled with suspense and pain and the chemistry between Luca and Valenzia is explosive and I love everything good and bad about it. Anise Storm has built an amazing dark revengey world and I’m here for it🥰 Although I haven’t read the first one yet, let me tell you if it is as good as this one I already love it. I’m on my way to read it now🤗 I look forward to reading more books by this author 😀
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Hannah porterhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHannah porter2023-09-01 20:13:482023-09-14 08:09:35Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Hannah Porter
This is the second book in the Vaccaro Empire Collection series. A dark Mafia romance book focusing on Valenzia and Luca. The story has its fair share of danger, secrecy and violence as is expected with Mafia stories. I enjoyed the way this was written; the descriptive language made the characters and scenery come to life. Luca’s plan for revenge backfires when his emotions get in the way. I truly felt for Luca and what he went through (and I have a weakness for Mafia characters) and couldn’t help myself rooting for him to succeed in romancing Valenzia. I also enjoyed the character of Valenzia and felt for her as she discovered the truth about her family. I felt her strength as she encountered difficult situations, adapting to the circumstances to protect her loved ones. The chemistry between the pair was clear and I couldn’t put the book down in my need to see how they came together, witnessing their story play out, I think they brought the best out in each other. This was another great novel by the author and I am desperately waiting to sink my teeth into the next book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-08-31 18:22:482023-09-09 20:57:47Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is a two book series “The Vaccaro Empire Collection”. I have only read the second book so I definitely need to read the first one. Luca is the son of man whose family was murdered by the Vaccaro family. Luca didn’t know this until he came to Sicily and now he is wanting to reclaim what belongs to him, this possibly includes the oldest Vaccaro daughter, Valenzia who feels like she is an ordinary person. She meets Luca whom she finds charming and seductive but she learns to late why he is really in her life. Do they connect and is it enough to bring peace to both families? You need to read to find out!!!
This is a two book series “The Vaccaro Empire Collection”. I have only read the second book so I definitely need to read the first one. Luca is the son of man whose family was murdered by the Vaccaro family. Luca didn’t know this until he came to Sicily and now he is wanting to reclaim what belongs to him, this possibly includes the oldest Vaccaro daughter, Valenzia who feels like she is an ordinary person. She meets Luca whom she finds charming and seductive but she learns to late why he is really in her life. Do they connect and is it enough to bring peace to both families? You need to read to find out!!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kirsten Berkebilehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKirsten Berkebile2023-08-30 12:08:022023-09-09 12:27:42Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Kirsten Berkebile
Valenzia Vaccaro has always known that there was more to her parents’ and her father’s business than they told her but she never knew just how deadly and dangerous her father really is. By accident, one day she grabbed a box of items that belonged to her mother. Going through the box she discovered her mother’s diary. The diary told a tale of vengeance, sex, death and more than she ever wanted to know. When Valenzia confronted her mom with the truth, her mother confirmed it. Valenzia ran.
Luca Catalano didn’t discover who he was until shortly after his 21st birthday when his mother died and he discovered her journals. All the truths that he sought as a child yearning to know about his father were there in those journals, all the secrets that caused his mother to cry at night were laid out in her own handwriting. Luca decided to take his rightful place in his family and their world only to discover that he was the sole remaining Catalano. Luca slowly rebuilt the family name.
Luca also had a plan of vengeance for the man that took his father and uncles, Nazario Vaccaro. Luca will quietly seduce Valenzia Vaccaro, getting her to fall in love with him. If the seduction doesn’t work, he isn’t above kidnapping. When Valenzia runs from her family, she heads straight into the lion’s den and winds up in Luca’s bed. It takes time but Valenzia and Luca slowly start to build on their chance encounter and build a tentative friendship.
This book answers my questions from Deadly Intentions. It was a good addition to the series. It drags a bit at times but all the detail and backstory make sense when you figure it out. Good read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00M Policicchiohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngM Policicchio2023-08-28 23:41:482023-09-05 14:57:37Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by M Policicchio
5 Star’s Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm
Deadly Vengeance is the second book in The Vaccaro Empire Series and is a Dark Romance that is packed with, suspense, drama, revenge, secrets, heartache, lies, family drama and so much more. I love a good Mafia Romance that grabs you from the beginning and has you turning the pages till the end. This is a author that I never hesitate picking up anything she writes. I’m a huge fan and each book is better and hotter, intense and raw than the last one. This one definitely checks all those boxes. There may be a few areas that may be a trigger warning for some but if you can push through them, I promise it’ll be worth it. Luca sets out on a quest to get revenge but it turns out to be way more than he ever expected. Valenzia pretty much has lived a sheltered life not knowing or understanding exactly what the family business is but has heard some things others have said. Luca and Valenzia are not friends at first that’s for sure. There’s some pretty tense moments that had me holding my breath. Can these two heal the past? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I’m looking forward to reading more from this Author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2023-08-27 20:23:212023-09-05 14:42:30Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
This is a captivating, gripping, dark Mafia Romance. As you would expect it is filled with danger, secrets, lies, enemies and death which is always alive in the Mafia world as well as protective, possessive men and the underlining thing that you do what it takes to protect your family.
This is the second book in The Vaccaro Empire series and wow what a read. In this story we follow Luca and Valenzia.
Luca was raised away from the Mafia world and the rivalry between the Valenzia’s family and his. When he discovers that his father and the rest of his family were wipes out by the Vaccaro’s (mainly Valenzia’s father) Luca decides he will get his revenge. His plan is to take the eldest daughter of the Vaccaro family, make her his wife and for her to produce an heir to his family. All while her family watches on. Luca thinks his plan is solid and knows once he gets what he wants he will destroy the Vaccaro family like they destroyed his. What he didn’t expect was to actually be attracted to and to fall for his captive.
Valenzia is a strong women but lived a very sheltered life. However when she finds herself in the grasp of Luca she resists him at every turn until he starts threatening her siblings. She knows she must do what’s necessary to protect her family even if it means giving up her life. What she doesn’t expect is for there to be an explosive chemistry between them. Could it be something more or is it just pure hatred that is driving this chemistry. What will Luca do when he realises that he is falling for Valenzia? If they succeed will their relationship survive? And what will happen between the families if the join together? Will they still be enemy’s who won’t stop until the other is dead or will their partnership but exactly what is needed to repair the damage between the families. What happens when the vengeance you wanted and planned for isn’t the most important thing to you but the love of the enemies daughter is?
I loved the characters of Luca and Valenzia. My heart went out to Luca after everything he went through but also to Valenzia as she uncovered secrets in her families past she never knew existed. Luca and Valenzia both have a passionate fire inside them but together they seem to soothe each other. I loved their chemistry and spark. It really jumped off the page.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2023-08-25 11:40:402023-09-05 14:34:59Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Kerry Carr
This second book to the Vaccaro family was just as good as the first one! Focusing on Luca and Valenzia this time around the two are like fire and ice! Valenzia is a little sheltered in this story not really knowing what her parents are involved in, but still a little spitfire. She no doubt doesn’t let Luca walk all over and she pushes back when he’s done something that she doesn’t like. Valenzia is someone Luca was not ready for. He wants to destroy the Vaccaro family for what they did to his dad, but he was not expecting Valenzia. The story was well written and progressed at a pretty decent pace and didn’t feel like it was dragging on. I love the world that this author has created and I hope she makes more in this series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Crystal Jimmohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCrystal Jimmo2023-08-22 22:05:412023-09-05 13:54:07Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Crystal Jimmo
This book is a dark and intense romantic story that is all about the characters. They are intriguing to read about and their history adds a depth to the story. Their chemistry is undeniable. It is electric and captivating to read. I loved watching how this story unfolded. There seemed to be so much more going on than I expected and it drew me in with ease. The author has produced a book that really pulls you in from page one. This is an author I always read with pleasure. Her work is always well written and exciting. This book is a great follow on from the first and I would recommend it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2023-08-22 15:40:152023-09-05 14:15:57Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Kerry Baker
Luca has a plan, the Vaccaro’s took something away from him and his family he is determined to get pay back, in the form of Vaccaro’s eldest daughter but can he convince her he is the one for her.
Valenzia has had a sheltered life, her father have kept them away from the world, not really understanding the family business but hearing the rumours of her Papa and mother. Until one day her world is turned upside down and in walks Luca, a mysterious dark stranger with a past like her fathers.
Valenzia becomes infatuated by Luca and although they start off as enemies, they stat to have trust and affection but will her family understand or will the riff that has been decades in the making ruin their lives.
This is the second book in this series and it just as full of twists and turns as the first one. Luca’s character starts off as a normal man but understanding his his makes his character more interesting as the story goes on. The character of Valenzia made an equal too Luca and she was just as sassy and strong to push back at the strong alpha character.
I loved the secondary characters who enhanced and made the story more intense as you continue to consume this brilliant story. I can’t wait to read more from this wonderful series in the future as the writing is engaging and keeps you on the edge of your chair.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Shirleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Shirley2023-08-22 12:00:572023-09-05 14:14:02Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Angela Shirley
This was a great book that was hard to put down. Luca and Valenzia have a push and pull from the beginning of the book. Luca is out to get back the territory, influence and power that his family lost. He feels that in order to destroy his enemy, the Vacarros, he must destroy their eldest daughter, Valenzia. What neither of them was expecting was to fall in love. This author has a great way of pulling you into the world that she created and making the characters feel real. Although this was a bit fast paced it did not leave me feeling like I had a bunch of unanswered questions at the end. I look forward to reading the next installment.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Charlisa Wahtomy-Albahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCharlisa Wahtomy-Alba2023-08-20 01:03:472023-10-25 21:23:50Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba
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