Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Defiant Princess is a prequel novel to the Mafia Elite series. While being short and sweet it gives you further insight into the relationship of the women of the Mafia Elite series. In this installment you are given a look into a pivotal moment mentioned throughout the series that only makes you love these characters more. Well written and concise.
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Big fan of this series, but this book really didn’t do it for me. Where the other books were packed with action, this one just didn’t have that same energy and pace. It also seemed to lack any real details about life at college for the mafia princesses, including their interactions with the Bratva. And I was really hoping it would detail what happened with the girls that had been alluded to in previous books, but sadly, it just left things as unclear as before.
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was such a good book! Absolutely amazing read and a fantastic prequel to the Mafia Elite series. It absolutely sets the tone for what is to come in this series and I loved it. I loved that we got an introduction the Princesses of the Mafia Elite it was great to meet them all and find out a little more about them and their lives. This is only a short story but it definitely helps to set the scenes for later stories. I would definitely recommend reading this series in order! Another 5 star read from this talented author!
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62590918-defiant-princess” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Prequel)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1663174470l/62590918._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62590918-defiant-princess”>Defiant Princess</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14257449.Amy_McKinley”>Amy McKinley</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5096194661″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
First off I absolutely loved the Mafia Elite Series. I’m not a huge fan of prequels, but I like to give them a chance just to see how an author merges the past and present. This was a very quick read, but it gave a lot of insight into the women we came to know who loved and married these men in the five families. We get to see what these ladies were going through the night one of their good friends and roommates was murdered. These ladies endured a lot as we found from the Mafia Elite Series but we get to find out just how much and how strong their bond really was in the beginning. The author has done an amazing job making these characters come to life and jump from the pages. I look forward to learning more about Liliana, Emiliana and Sofia before they became wives.
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Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is a prequel to the Mafia Elite series, and is a phenomenal addition to the original series. For me, getting to see the female main characters, our mafia princesses, during their last year of college and see what life was like for them at that time, was a great new addition. The main thing that I found interesting was getting to know Marissa, a mafia princess who was not a part of the original series other than her death being a motivation for many of the mafia members. This book allows you to see how close Marissa was with the others, while also at times giving us her perspective at times.
I do hope that this is still not the end of this series, because I never want to leave this world!
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really good read! I enjoyed getting to go back, and kind of getting some insight into the events at the beginning that had such an impact on the main series, but didn’t get talked about often. So it was nice getting information on the tragedy itself. It also gives slightly more of an insight into the mafia girls which I really enjoyed as well. It was fast paced and well written too! I definitely can’t wait to read more from this author in the future!
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a good book to go along with the series that Amy McKinley has written. She doesn’t disappoint. I would read the other books to know where the girls are in their lives. The girls are leading their lives in college and are staying with each other. They aren’t going to know how to live without each other, but they really won’t have to once they make the packed. I cannot wait until the next installment to see what happens in this book. This one leaves you with a cliffhanger for sure.
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Defiant Princess is a short story that is a prequel to the Mafia Elite series. I am obsessed with this series and was so excited to read it. It gave us a little back story on the girls of the Five Families, though I wish there was more info given on Marissa. I still want to know what happened!! So please, I beg, at some point let us know who dun it!! This book takes place before any of their marriages. They are enjoying their last year in college, dreading the future their fathers have chosen for them. I enjoy seeing the love and protection from their brothers. And how close they all are to each other.
While I love this series and enjoyed the book, I don’t feel like it added much to the series. Reading this AFTER all the other books, I feel like there wasn’t much new info provided. I think it would be more enjoyable as a true prequel to hook a new reader on the series. But, as I said, I am obsessed with this series, so I still recommend it and look forward to more.
Liliana, Sofia, Marissa, and Emiliana belong to 4 royal mafia families. Under the strict power of their respective fathers each of the girls is used for the convenience of the business, marriage arrangements are made with other families even those who are part of the enemy, giving them the memories of growing together as the only source of warmth throughout the hardness of the destiny.
Within their luxury lives all of them have challenges to overcome: Marissa’s engagement with Toni, who was a friend and suddenly becomes a guard who seeks power in his new position. Sofia,in love with Enzo, but after a traumatic experience has lost all of his shine and she can not seem to get it back to him, thinking that theirs was not a love meant to be. Emiliana, who is marked with internal scars after being abducted and now can’t seem to be able to be part of a normal society, living always on high alert and in constant fear for her surroundings. Liliana has yet to see what her father has saved for her future, she has a seat in first row into her friends fated goals.
A multi-narrative story full of action, suspense, hidden love, character development that empowers the forces of each girl to its fullest, even when at the same time they deal with their fears and limitations
Another great Mafia story that will have your emotions all over the place. Chase and Katarina are both very different people. One is the boss and the other is the princess. Chase is the CEO of a big company as well as belonging to the biggest crime syndicate. Katarina the princess that she is, but also the daughter of the man within his own Mafia syndicate. As these two worlds come together you will find yourself right in the middle. I absolutely love this author. I never read the Synopsis, I just buy the book and start reading. She never disappoints! This story is loaded with twists and turns that will keep you reading. The story is well written and easy to keep on track with. The characters are perfect for the parts they play, The Boss and The Princess you will just need to read this story to see what happens next. No spoilers here!
Review@cinful
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Being born into a Mafia family means life is never normal. College was supposed to be a period of time where Liliana, Sofia, Emiliana, and Marissa get to at least pretend to be closer to normal than how they had grown up. Senior year has approached and despite it being their last year of freedom, their families start making plans for their future. Each of them is faced with the inevitable prospect of marrying someone they don’t love or even like. When a Russian mafia member is spotted watching the girls’ house, it can only mean their time is running short. As they each face their fears and cling to the last vestiges of their normal-ish lives, can they make it through together? Or will they succumb to the mafia way and be punished for unknowingly putting themselves in harm’s way?
This prequel answered a lot of questions from the Mafia Elite series that were always mentioned but never truly explained in depth. I enjoyed getting to see the girls in their “formative” years before their lives were not really their own. Each perspective brings a different view into how the girls really became a unit that would do anything for each other. My heart broke a little for each of them as they had to go through yet another tragedy to realize that their lives really are not their own and that they are just pawns in the greater scheme of the Mafia life.
Degrees of Innocence by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Kate finds herself in a new place because of her job. While Kate is on the island she stumbles across a man she is extremely attracted too. Meanwhile he is hiding his true identity of who he is from her. Unbeknownst to Kate he’s her boss. I was highly addicted to this book. I could not get enough.
Degrees of Innocence by Via Mari
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
So this is just an okay story for me. I was expecting a mafia story and felt this is an overbearing businessman story with lots of smexy times. Sure he could be mafia but it is not eluded to until the end. I feel the author is just drawing it out to make it into more books. Not a lot happens through the whole long book other than slooow character development and lots of sex. I got tired of the main character’s thoughts pertaining to a work relationship. A few are fine..half a book..too much.
I also had confusion over the name Matt used more than once. Early on I just ignored it and realized later on I should not have as it became important and I wondered if it was the same person and I just did not make the connection earlier. But it wasn’t.
I did like how the characters met each other, their cute emailing and the danger that arrived. This ends in an unfinished story. Not really a cliffhanger but I just turned the page and the book was over leaving me feeling incomplete. This is not a first time author for me but this one is just not my favorite.
Degrees of Innocence by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Katarina’s past has always been the driving force to her life, scarred by her mother and driven within her career she has never really enjoyed life, until she meets the dark and mysterious Chase Prestian. With his relentless nature to make her his and the chemistry between them sparks will fly but can Katarina open her dark desires to him.
Chase has it all money, success, and a revolving door of woman but none has piqued his interest like Katarina, with the chemistry and the willing to show her the dark side of life will she be as open to a relationship with him once he shows her his other side.
This book is full of action and steamy scenes, I am always drawn to a Alpha male and Chase is more than that. The action within this book is full of intrigue and suspense, with the characters each having their own flaws and problems to overcome. I love the interactions between the two main characters and the way Katarina discovers this about herself personally along the way.
Although the book has a vibe of the Sub/Dom relationship this is done in a way to enhance the characters relationships and provides and interesting look into both. I loved the strong character of Katarina and although she shows her submissive side to Chase there is always a sass to her character and style. Overall, this is a brilliant start to the series and can’t wait to read more and discover more of this world.
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Did I click the buy now button without needing any more details other than knowing the author’s name? Sure did! I have more than loved all of the works I have ever read by Amy McKinley. Let me tell ya this book did not let me down. Another amazing story by Amy.
This novella takes place as a stage opener for the series The Mafia Elite. It gives a look into the younger lives of the mafia Princesses that we follow during the main series. It is full of adventures, danger, intrigue, drama, and mystery. Each of the characters draws you in with a way to relate to them in one way or another. Putting the book down is nearly impossible. I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen next.
Don’t wait to pick up this prequel to The Mafia Elite series. While you are at it, have the entire main series ready to go next. I read the prequel after the original series, but it didn’t affect any enjoyment from it.
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow! I am not sure I have ever raced to buy a book so fast. I am not always a fan of novellas, but Amy packed this full of just enough description and details to pull you in immediately. Defiant Princess is incredibly well written and I am so excited to read the seven books in this series.
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
OMG I am obsessed by this series and thought it could not get any better, well I was wrong. This book is the prequel to the night of Marissa’s death and what went down, the only drawback this is too short and leaves you hanging.
This introduces the Princesses into the world and is written with the same intrigue and twists as all the books in this series. The characters are the ones we love and cherish, and it is great to see the characters in a time of free-spirited woman and how the fibre’s such strong friendship was founded.
I hope there is more in the series as I’m not sure I want to say goodbye to the Five Families just yet,
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I love the Mafia Elite series, so this prequel seemed like a great chance to get more of the characters and writing that I enjoy so much! I feel like Defiant Princess is more intended as an entry point into the series for new readers than an extension of the story for those who have already read the series. Most of the backstory won’t be new if you’re caught up on the series, and there won’t be many surprises. But it’s still fun to get to see the characters when they’re a bit younger!
So I’d say this is for readers who think you might enjoy the series and would like a taster before you commit. It’s a chance to get to know loads of the main characters and some of their key motivators in a shorter novella before you jump into the series. With the Mafia Elite series now available in two convenient box sets, this could be a great way to sample the series before getting the first set.
This book gets four stars from me. I’d recommend it to newcomers to the series who want to see if it’s for them – if you like romance, action and intrigue I’m sure you’ll love Mafia Elite!
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really love this author and I have read many of her books and this one was just another great story. I like how she brings in the drama and mixes a bit of romance. The stories are so full of action and drama that you get swept into them. The characters are always well written with enough back story to support. I love how the books blend well into the next and I cannot wait to read more from this author. I cannot put these books down as I am at the edge of my seat wanting to see what will happen next.
The chemistry between the characters is really good. I am well impressed how the author builds the world around the characters. I really felt as though I was right in the midst of the action. Mafia romances are one of my top 10 favorite genres. I will definitely be reading more of this series. I cannot wait!
Review by @caraleeloonat
View all my reviews
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I don’t think there will ever be a book by Amy that I don’t enjoy immensely, and this one is no different! This may be my favorite book by hers thus far, and that is saying something! Never before have I enjoyed a book from multiple perspectives as much as I have enjoyed this one.
Having read all of the other books in the series, I already knew of all the main characters, so I was excited to see more content on all of the ladies featured in the book. The book opened my eyes to the experiences each of these girls have had, and even though I’ve never experienced half of the things that they have, I found myself relating to each and every one of them. I went away from the book inspired, and hoping that there will be more of the five families in the future!
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love this author literally for everything they write and create. I am never disappointed by anything that they bring to life! This book was a gripping read, that held my interest with ease! Great read!
I loved the series the author has written prior, and I am so happy that they started this one. I love the characters, the girls were strong minded,who have their life set up for them as if on a map, but should they not be able to choose their own destiny? I loved how realistic the story was , the girls in college abiding to the rules laid before them. Loved Sofia to make clear! The story was passionate, deep, dark at times, and even devastating in moments. Could not put it down! Truly a tight and gripping read! Loved it!
I can never pass up a book by this amazing author! I love how they grip the reader with their talent and strong characters. Needless to say, I highly recommend this must read book and author!
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ok so I will admit I might have squealed a little when this book became available! I absolutely love this series. These characters are strong and wonderful. I loved reading this story. The women are the best parts of this series. This story is a look into how they became who they did.
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Having read the other books in this series I instantly snatched this one up when I saw it. I have just discovered this author in the last couple of years but she is quickly becoming my favorite. Her characters are amazing and realistic, the plot always has me on the edge of my seat, and overall her writing always leaves me wanting another book. While this is a prequel it can be read as a stand alone but I highly recommend reading the whole series. The drama, suspense, and the romance is all amazing and personally I hope she gives us more to this amazing series.
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I cannot get enough of this world Amy McKinley has created! The Mafia Elite series is one of my favorites and I will quickly pick up any book that she writes!! All of the characters have unique personalities and there are thrilling twists and turns throughout each focused story.
This prequel is just what we needed. It gives us more insight into how the families are connected and shows us a rare glimpse of what the women in different families do to maintain their independence when they are promised to marry someone whom they did not choose. I couldn’t put it down! I am glad to have these little insights into the interworkings of these Mafia families.
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Defiant Princess is the prequel for the Mafia Elite series by Amy McKinley. OMG! This book, and this series!!! Colour me addicted!!! Riveting must reads!!!
This prequel might have come at the end of the series, but I love how, even though it is set in the past, it ties the series up in a nice big bow. Ms. McKinley has given us backstory to fully round-out the stories we have already read- and made me even more addicted to her writing. I Can. Not. Wait. to see where we go from here- and am eagerly awaiting the release of ‘Borrowed Time’ which is the first book in the new Verretti Crime Family series. We have encountered the Verretti’s in the last three books of the Mafia Elite series- in ‘Ruthless Heir’ (Book #5), ‘Collateral Damage’ (Book #6), and ‘Rivals’ (Book #7). If Mafia Elite is anything to go by, the upcoming series is set to be incredibly exciting!
Seriously, if you love mafia romance, with a big helping of tension and suspense, then you definitely won’t want to miss this exciting series!
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Amy McKinley!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I read this last in the series. It put everything in perspective. Goes well with the series. Very good book about all the mafia princesses and what they go through. I highly recommend.
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love the Mafia Elite series and this prequel was just as amazing! It was nice to read about the life of the Mafia Princesses when they were attending college and finding their groove and strengthening their friendships. We learn a lot about Marissa and her tragic passing. The characters were relatable and it reminded me a bit of my college experiences making life long friendships.
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Defiant Princess
By: Amy McKinley
This book is the prequel to the Mafia Elite series, but it does stand alone by itself. It is the story of college aged girls that are the daughters of the five families. This is where their story begins. They are all princesses to high up mafia families. Their fathers will do anything to protect them. In some of these cases, their lives are completely out of their control.
LIlianna loves college. She is surrounded by other girls who understand and can relate to the life she lives. Her father is super controlling and all she wants to do is taste freedom. However, her father is so concerned for her that she even has a marriage coming up. One that she has not planned, but has been planned for her. She wants to run away, begin a new life away from her father’s control. But will that be possible?
Sofia is absolutely in love with Enzo. She was the one that he wanted and the same goes for him. However, now even though she loves him, she cannot be with him. She would do anything for him, including walk away from him. She needs to keep him safe, and to do that she has to walk away.
Emiliana is also in love. Stefano is her one true love. She would do anything to be back with him. However, they both live under the control of their fathers. Both fathers are incredibly controlling. They have forbidden them from being together. However, they need to be together. They are meant for each other. If only they could convince the rest of the world that what they need is to be together.
Marissa can relate to the arranged marriage that Lilianna is being forced into. She is in the same position. She is determine to make the best of the time she has before she is traded away in the form of this marriage.
These girls are tasting freedom for the first time. And they don’t want to give it up. The question is how far will they go to get their freedom. Are they willing to risk everything to keep their freedom. Or will they submit to to the will of their families.
I loved this story. These girls were written as incredibly complex characters. Their complex situations just dripped off every page. I’m glad to know that there is more to be written about these girls as I want to see how each of their stories develop. I was left wanting more and that’s a good thing, given that there is more to read. I will be starting the Mafia Elite Series right now!
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
When I saw that Amy McKinley was releasing this book, I knew that I had to preorder it. The mafia elite series has fast become one of my FAVORITE mafia series that I have read to date. Each book is about a specific couple but still goes in order with the underlying theme/story line that is happening, which is a wonderful thing! This book really sets the stage for the series and was a wonderful addition to read. The way that the author wrote these books, weaved the stories, is such talent and I am in awe. I have found myself rereading the series and will add this to the reread list as this story is one that never gets old. I cannot wait to read more books by this talented author!
Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I truly enjoyed this prequel to the Mafia Elite series. In the series we hear a lot about Marissa but never really got to know her. I enjoyed reading about her and her hopes before tragedy hits along with the other girls. It gave a quick glimpse into their lives before things got complicated. This can be read before the main series as a quick intro to the Mafia princesses or after to experience their college lives. My only complaint, it was too short.
