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.
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.
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,
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 Shirley2022-11-06 02:41:082022-11-09 08:29:57Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Angela Shirley
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!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Francis O'Sullivanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFrancis O'Sullivan2022-11-05 20:15:172022-11-08 09:33:40Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Francis O’Sullivan
Be prepared for this funny romantic suspense story. Jenna has left her boyfriend and has decided to try out a different bar. Back story is Jenna has money and all of her previous boyfriends just want her money. Including Steve, her last one. Although he kept bugging her to add his name to her bank account. He hit the red flag and she was over him.Andy is minding his own business when a girl walks in and puts an envelope in his lap. Shocked, he tried to catch up with her, but she was gone. In that envelope he found a few thousand dollars and a note. That’s it, no spoilers. This is one you will need to read to believe it. This author has done it once again. Kept me up all night reading her book. But so worth the adventure, intrigue and suspense. The story is well written and fast paced. She got me on page two and I was off. Her main characters are just plain everyday people caught up in the kidnapping. I have read books from this author and never second guess buying her books. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.
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 Mayberry2022-11-05 16:35:052022-11-08 09:28:07The Kidnapping by Linda Burson – Review by Cindy Mayberry
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!
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!
OMG! What a twist! What an ending. You will think you have this figured out before the end but you could be wrong. I know I was-ish.
Trudy is a hard working, caring ME for the county of Philadelphia. When a row house blows up due to a gas leak, old bones are discovered. Tudy wants to help bring closure to the families of the bones. Her journey leads her to anthropologist Ben. Ben is the opposite of Trudy in almost every way. Ben gets involved with Trudy to help her uncover who the bones are.
Someone out there doesn’t want the identity of the bones discovered. And they are willing to kill to keep their secret. When the danger for Trudy and Ben increases, so does the tension in their possible new relationship. Will they survive the case? Will their relationship?
You will stay glued to the pages as they go flying by to find out not only who the killer is but if Trudy and Ben survive. Love this series. Another great addition.
View all my reviews Yesterday’s Over (Philly Heat Series Book 3) by Becky Flade – Review by
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 Policicchio2022-11-04 09:36:272022-11-08 09:48:01Yesterday’s Over (Philly Heat Series Book 3) by Becky Flade – Review by M Policicchio
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!
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.
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.
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 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!
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 Hayes2022-11-03 23:03:542022-11-08 09:22:27Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Angela Hayes
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.
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.
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!
This was an intriguing listen. Marcy who owns her own business has recently developed an uncontrollable rage that starts to effect her life. This leads to issues with her boyfriend Brad and befriending Liam a vigilanty. The story has a weird plot that at times didn’t make sense and was hard to follow but ultimately all made sense in the end. I did find myself getting frustrated with Marcy by allowing such toxic men to be part and control so much of her life. The ending was a surprise albeit a little off the wall; maybe book two in the series will help things make more sense.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Glaspiehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Glaspie2022-11-03 17:21:412022-11-08 09:19:43Rage (Marcy Series Book 1) Audiobook by Linda Burson – Review by Amanda Glaspie
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!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Carlie Del Gallohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCarlie Del Gallo2022-11-03 16:59:172022-11-08 09:47:54Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Carlie Del Gallo
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.
I loved reading this book. This is the prequel to the Mafia Elite series and what a great start it is. This is an author that I have loved reading from the first book I picked up. I highly suggest reading this series to see what happens to these characters after this book. This is a well written story about Mafia princesses. They have a destiny but it is what they want or is there something more? I had no problem connecting with the characters as they pulled me into their story. They have great growth throughout as well as the plot that made it easy to read. This is a story that you don’t want to miss for sure. It is a fast paced, hard to put down story that I read in one sitting. I highly recommend this book and this author.
The Mafia Elite is one of my all-time favourite series so when I saw this book by Amy, I grabbed it and dove right in. This book tells the story of the Mafia Princesses who had the unfortunate fate of being born into elite Mafia families. Where their lives are already mapped out before them, where secrets are paved, and revenge is ripe and arranged marriages are given and ruthlessness is the norm.
The prequel is captivating, and it is a great insight into the lives of characters when they were younger that we have seen throughout the Mafia Elite series. This intriguing and gripping new book is full of drama, mystery, intrigue and danger, with plenty of heart pounding moments. I was on the edge of my seat whilst devouring page after page of this engrossing read.
Now that I have devoured the prequel I am going to go back and reread the amazing original series.
An amazing start to a series favorite of mine. Amy McKinley has the ability to create an interesting story full of characters you can’t help to love. Defiant Princess is a Mafia Elite Prequel that focuses on the females in the five families. Marissa is officially engaged to Tony Caruso. Emiliana has been rescued from a human trafficking ring that presumably claimed the life of Elena. Lilliana isn’t promised to anybody yet and is waiting for her father to destroy her. Sofia has a crush on Enzo but refuses to act on her feelings. Ivan from the Russian Bratva has appeared and Marissa wants to ask him about her sister Camila. The group tries to convince her to stay away from him, especially since Tony was known for being possessive and would act violently out of jealousy. To avoid spoilers, I can only state that Marissa’s decisions will affect all of the girls. What does she do?
I almost wish I read this before I started the series because it gives a lot of information and to why things are the way they are and how they got there.
This is a great novella that gives plenty of insight to 4 of the most amazing women I have ever read about. They are the Mafia Princesses. They are all In college together sharing a place, they have guards, everyone knows they are off limits / untouchable. Marissa has a mind of her own and doesn’t listen to the other girls or other guys who want to keep her self. I absolutely love all these characters but Sofia and Enzo are my favorites!!! Such an amazing series, you definitely must Run…don’t walk…RUN and get your hands on this entire series. You will not be disappointed.
I love this series, and I was so excited for this book! It did not disappoint, and I really enjoyed reading more of the backstories of Liliana, Emiliana, Sofia, and Eva. But it was disappointing that it was so short! Reading about Marissa’s death is important within the scope of the whole series too. Overall, a great read especially if you are reading the series. It would still work as a stand alone book but would leave me anxious to read the other books!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecca Hillhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebecca Hill2022-11-03 12:11:562022-11-08 09:18:58Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Rebecca Hill
I loved this book and now we finally have the storyline surrounding Marissa’s death and how she related to the other girls, Lilianna, Sofia, and Emiliana. We have been introduced to Marissa throughout the series by second hand storylines but this is the events leading up to her murder. It was nice to get a peak into the girls lives before their already tumultuous world shattered and how the relationships developed between their future romantic interactions. I absolutely adore this series!
Once again Amy McKinley has outdone herself with this short novella. Defiant Princess follows the Five Families daughters: Liliana, Sofia, Emiliana, and Marissa. This is a prequel to the Mafia Elite series; however, you can read it at any time during your journey with that series. This was a super fast read, but I really appreciate that McKinley provides the insight that she does into Marissa’s murder as it is a catalyst that drives a lot of what happens in the series, especially the first book. I also like that she included snippets of romance between a few of the couples we get to see later on and it’s just nice to know that their romances have been going on for way longer than we thought. Even though it was an insanely quick read, McKinley covered all of her basis and allowed for character development as well as plot development. As I said before, it doesn’t matter when you read this novella, but I highly recommend that you do as it does add integral details to the story.
The story of Marissa’s murder. This is the prequel to the Mafia Elite series and it is excellent. It answers some questions. I am a big fan of the Mafia Princess Royalty. These ladies are butt kickers and would rather take charge of things for themselves. Lil, Em, Sofia, and the other ladies are dealing with the issues of their fathers arranging their marriages and forbidden loves. Oh, I enjoyed this story so much. I am so sad to see it come to an end. This is a fantastic author. She writes with a contemporary tone that can make you feel like you are right their in the story. This is edge-of-the-seat action. Another winner!!
This is a great prequel to an absolutely amazing must read series. It sets up the continuing series so well and lightly touches on a few things to come as you read the series…as always with this author I thoroughly enjoyed it!!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Juleshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJules2022-11-03 06:35:302022-11-08 09:16:48Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Jules Herbert
Our senior year in college was supposed to go out with a bang, and it did, just not the way we’d expected.
Liliana Brambilla
If I could freeze time, I would.
The university my Mafia sisters and I attend is the one place I can get away and feel some sense of freedom—and escape from my father’s control and soon-to-be-announced, unwanted arranged marriage. If I could run away from my future, I would, and I’m not the only one.
Sofia La Rosa
I’ve loved Enzo Vitale all my life.
At one point, he was mine, and I was his. It was an allusion we were blissfully wrapped in. That bubble shattered even before I graduated from high school. The secrets scattered through our past were now like forgotten landmines ready to explode. He still considers me his, and in my heart, I will always be. For his sake, I need to keep him at arm’s length. Otherwise, I run the risk of losing him for good.
Emiliana Vitale
He’s the only man whose touch I crave.
I fell in love with Stefano Rossi before my life imploded, and I was taken from those I love. But our love is forbidden by his ruthless father and discouraged by my family. What they don’t understand is we’re both broken, and only together are we whole.
Marissa Rossi
My life is not my own, but neither are my siblings.
For the moment, I’m free, despite the noose around my neck in the form of an arranged marriage that will happen in a few weeks. That’ll be then, not right now. I still have time, even if it’s limited, to paint to my heart’s content and party all night long. I know the clock is ticking, so I’ll take every advantage of this small window—my last few weeks as a college student rooming with my best girlfriends—and live my life to the fullest.
We were born Mafia princesses, but we might as well be prisoners. As our college years draw to a close, we each have a fate we’re trying to escape. The question is, who will conquer the destiny laid before us or merely survive—and who will not?
Amy McKinley is the USA Today bestselling author of the romantic suspense thriller Gray Ghost Novels, Deadly Isles Special Ops, Covert Recruits, Mafia Elite, Moonlit Destination series, Five Fates paranormal romance series, and several stand-alone titles. Her edge-of-your-seat books are filled with surprising twists and just the right amount of heat and danger. She lives in Illinois with her husband, two daughters, two sons, and three mischievous cats. You can find her atwww.AmyMcKinley.com
A wonderful story Katrina who is a design consult who end up falling for Chase, a very wealthy and powerful man. Chase is overprotective and overbearing and Katrina deals with trauma from her mothers past. Their story includes sexual exploration, secrets, and suspense. It definitely has a 50 shades feel to it so keep that in mind when reading. The story and erotica is definitely not new and the writing isn’t perfect which is the only reason I didn’t rate it higher but I would still recommend this book to someone to looking for a nice quick enjoyable read
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Allison Davishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAllison Davis2022-11-02 19:15:112022-11-07 20:30:53Degrees of Innocence: Dark Mafia Romance (Cruel Deceptions Book 1) By Via Mari – Review by Allison Davis
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