From USA Today Bestselling author Khardine Gray comes a sexy, delightfully devilish, seductive second chance Mafia Romance. Be prepared to take a walk on the dark side.ClaudiusRule #1 of being mafia boss- Trust no one.Rule # 2- Keep your friends and enemies damn close. In the underground world, friends and enemies could be the same thing. Don’t let them know who you love… who you love…
My story started out with a guy who liked a girl.
She looked like an angel to him.
I was the guy, Ava the angel.
But… my life turned into this world where I got married to her twin sister and Ava hated me.
Then I got caught in a game with the devil I didn’t want to play.
My enemies used my weaknesses against me, and killed my wife.
Ava could have died too so I stayed away.
The universe, however, had other ideas and threw her right back in my path.
An angel like her didn’t belong in the dark world of a Mafia boss.
I know that, except, I’m selfish.
I should leave her alone, but I can’t.
The problem is …history is repeating itself, and there’s an enemy in my circle.
It’s the same game as before and this time losing could get her killed.
Ava
Avoid him…
That was the most sensible thing to do.
Ten years ago, when I first met Claudius, I knew he was trouble.
He’d made me love’s fool and broke my heart in so many ways when he married my sister.
So, what was I doing running back into the arms of a man I shouldn’t be with?
Coincidence reunited us, but my heart did the rest.
My heart stifled the voice inside that told me to run away.
My heart made me selfish…
I wanted him for myself.
I knew I shouldn’t be with him, but I couldn’t leave him alone.
That very thing could be my downfall.
This isn’t like any other second chance romance you’ve read before…
Stolen Kisses is a standalone, full-length mafia romance and a part of the Gangsters and Dolls series.
Gangsters and Dolls series is a spin off from The Accidental Mafia Queen series. Continue the adventure with these sizzling hot, drool-worthy Alpha males.
Meet the Chicago Familia in these series by USA Today bestselling author, Khardine Gray!
The Accidental Mafia Queen
1.Mafia Boss
2.Mafia Scars
3.Mafia Love
Gangsters and Dolls
1.Dirty Hearts
2.Stolen Kisses- Coming soon
3.Remember when we – Coming soon
4.Double Edged Hearts- Coming soon
5.The Sting of love – Coming soon
more
Ok, let me just say, that Khardine is my new favorite when it comes to mafia romance. Holy cow! This book was freaking amazing. It had me hooked since the beginning. What a ride this one takes you on. Can’t wait for the next one.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
** spoiler alert ** Is there really a thing as a second chance? Will they be able to let go of the past to have a future?
I have to admit, this book had me on the edge of my seat wanting to read more from the first chapter. It had so many twists to it that it kept me guessing on what was coming next. I felt my heart break for both characters after everything they had been through and have to admit I wanted to hate her sister. I loved the fact that in the end, they were able to over come most of the obstacles in their path and were determined to work together to continue to move forward. Great read and cannot wait to read what the next on has coming!
Claudius taught her a lesson when he cast her aside four years ago for her sister because she was a better fit, she may want closure, but he was the don of Chicago. Ava owns Delizioso with her business partner, Kelly, she was moving on and wanted to expand the restaurant opening another branch, then in each city., Ava knows exactly who it is wanting to see her at the restaurant, seeing him everything she felt came flooding back. Their story is messy, and she’s not the same person she was when they met.
Claudius can’t believe what Ava said made all logic of being with her go, everything was exactly how the lies he told her made it look, but he was scared of losing her forever. Having her in his bed made him realise, she made him want to live. All he knows is Ava deserves the truth and he hopes she doesn’t hate him; he can’t fight wanting her anymore, with everything going on can he keep her safe even if it means keeping his unknown enemies close, will she give him a second chance when everything comes out.
We first meet Claudius Morientz in the Accidental Mafia Queen series, and I can’t wait for the rest of the Gangsters and Dolls series!!!
Claudius Morientz is the new mafia boss for the Rossi family. His father still helps as an advisor and his brother Lucian is out of the family, but when family needs you, you don’t turn away. Claudius has his father for most everything and the Four to help run Chicago, but when things continue to happen that only an insider would know, who can he trust but his own family. Reliving the death of his wife and their relationship is hard for him, but necessary for Ava and the love their share. But what will Claudius give up or miss when he wants Ava so much? Will Ava see past his “job”? Will he ever get revenge for the murders of his family members?
Ava is going through life the best she can with the hand that was dealt her. But her only regret is not forcing Claudius to be honest with her at all times. But when her twin sister, Marissa who is also Claudius’s wife is taken and she is taken as well, the game is meant to have a loser, but at what risk and cost. She loves Claudius will her whole heart and always has, even when he did the unthinkable to her. But when the truth is out, can she see the truth? Will it set them free? What about the uneasy feeling she gets around some of the Four? Will expanding her business give her the second chance she needs?
This story is full of suspense, drama, revenge, betrayal, dark secrets, twists and turns, love, lust, romance, jealousy and so much more! You will not want to put this book down. I received an ARC of this book from the author and purchased it!!!
The start of a brand new series is action packed with danger, suspense and sweet heat. Claudius and Ava’s love story wasn’t all roses but as they reconnect you can feel their love. I love the comradeship the men has in this series and when they find the woman who makes their heart beat you can’t help but cheer for their HEA. If your a fan of mafia romance than this is a definite must read series.
REVIEW:
Khardine Gray, USA Today Bestselling Author
Ok, so let me tell you a secret, I never really got into mafia romance. I never really liked it. So when I saw this book in a reading group, three things pulled at me to read it…1) the cover because it is gorgeous 2) the series title Gangsters and Dolls and 3) in the blurb the one line that caught my reading strings “ This isn’t like any other second chance romance you’ve read before…”. I’m always down for a second chance novel. I saw it was a spin-off of her Mafia Queen Series, but saw that it was a stand-alone. Oh holy hell in a hand basket, I’m so glad I took a chance on this book. It captured my attention right in the Prologue, I read it in one sitting and read a couple of chapters over because I was siting there, and asking myself if that really happen. Claudius and Ava pulled at my heart strings, you felt their love, pain, power, and most terrifying moments. Ava is this strong, sweet, woman that has been put through the ringer. Claudius is this powerful mafia boss, who has a heart of gold. I also adored the four and Luc’s guys (Claudius brother), I have a favorite, but will not tell no one, because, hey no spoilers from me. I love the story line, and the plot was so unpredictable, you were actually following Claudius decisions making them with him, instead of guessing and theorizing what will happen next, which is a big plus in my book. I’m so looking forward to the next installment and will definitely, keeping buying these books. So I applaud you Ms. Khardine Gray for making me a liar, saying I will never ever again, read a mafia book or actually loving one. Thank you for writing this amazing book! .
After being introduced to Claudius in the Accidental Mafia Queen series, it was great to learn more about him and his love Ava. Rather than the story run in a straight timeline, we are treated to traveling between what happened in the past and the mystery of why someone is trying to buy a shipping company in the present. It also becomes obvious there is a traitor in Claudius’s inner circle – but who and why? There is no doubt that there is a definite connection between Claudius and Ava, and you can’t help but root for them to find a way to stay together.
4.5 stars–DIRTY HEARTS is the first instalment in Khardine Gray’s contemporary, adult GANGSTERS AND DOLLS erotic, Mafia romance series-a spin off from the author’s THE ACCIDENTAL MAFIA QUEEN series. This is thirty-eight year old, Chicago Mafia Don Claudius Morientz, and thirty-one year old, chef Ava De Luca’s story line. DIRTY HEARTS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous series is revealed where necessary. Caudius was first introduced in The Accidental Mafia Queen.
NOTE: DIRTY HEARTS contains scenes of graphic violence that may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Claudius and Ava) DIRTY HEARTS is a second chance story line focusing on thirty-eight year old, Chicago Mafia Don Claudius Morientz, and thirty-one year old, chef Ava De Luca. Ten years earlier Claudius Morientz fell in love with Ava De Luca; two years later their world fell apart; another year would pass wherein Ava’s twin sister would be murdered in retaliation against the Chicago mob leaving Claudius and Ava struggling to move beyond the who, how and why. Fast forward to present day, at which point, Claudius continues to protect the only woman he has ever loved, a woman who will once again become the target of Claudius’ enemies. What ensues is the rekindling romance between Claudius and Ava, and the potential fall-out as Ava becomes collateral damage in a world ruled by ruthless tactics, guns, murder and vengeance.
Claudius has never stopped loving Ava De Luca. Having married her twin sister for sins of the past, Claudius struggles with what happened and why. Ava never knew the real reason behind Claudius’ betrayal, a betrayal that would once again destroy Ava’s heart, only this time directed at her deceased twin. As Claudius’ enemies draw near, our ‘hero’ battles between head and heart in an effort to protect the woman he loves, protection that comes with betrayal and revenge.
The relationship between Claudius and Ava is one of second chances; a rekindling romance between two people destroyed by power, control, manipulation and jealousy. The sexual attraction is palpable; their chemistry is steamy and hot. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Ava’s best friend and business partner Kelly. We are reintroduced to Claudius’ protection detail known as The Four: Dante, Gio, and brothers Jude and Alex; Claudius brother Lucian and Amelia (The Accidental Mafia Queen), and their father, former Don, Marcus Morientz. The requisite evil has many faces.
DIRTY HEARTS is story of family, friendship, betrayal and loss; of vengeance, hatred, resentment and rage. The premise is gritty and raw; the romance is passionate and seductive; the characters are colorful, dynamic, charismatic and strong.
This was an intense, heartbreaking second chance story about Claudius and Ava. My heart ached for Ava. To be betrayed the way she was by the person closest to her was horrible. For Claudius to be used and deceived by that same person…wow. How they wove through the heartache, dishonesty, violence was amazing. This book was a page turner form start to finish. Great Read
I received this ARC from Bad Boy Update and this is my honest review…
Kudos to Ms. Khardine Gray. This is a fast paced, action filled, mafia romance. It did not shy away from how one lived in the mafia life. The story showed the good, the bad and the ugly parts. It showed the good by way of the loyalty between the boss and his inner circle. How they looked out for each other and it extended beyond the job all the way to the families. It showed the bad by way of rival gangs and the danger they brought. It also exposed traitors. That was difficult for the men to deal with. One of their own, one they trusted with their life who turned against them. Then the complications that romance brought into the mix. Ava knew what being with the boss of the mafia meant. Claudius tried to stop loving Ava and keep her at arm’s length to keep her safe. It did not work. The attraction was too strong. Their love ignited like starbursts over the sky on the fourth of July. It was that intense. This book kept me turning page after page. I was seduced into this intriguing story of the light and dark side of living within the mafia world. This is a must read. You will not be disappointed. There is plenty of action to keep your attention. The characters are mature, well written and well thought out. It is impossible to be bored. This book is like your favorite recipe. When all the quality ingredients are added together something spectacular comes to life. That is how this book is. Spectacular. This book kept a delicate balance between the plot and the subplots. Just like the recipe no one ingredient overshadowed another. Ms. Gray has a hit on her hands and a great way to begin a new series. I highly recommend this.
I have read this series from the beginning and when we get to finally rwad how the new boss found love, well let’s say I’m pleasantly surprised. Ava and Claudius give us so much action, intrigue and hot steamy love that I can’t wait to see what the rest will be like. The ending though was not what I expected. Keep them coming. I give it 5 stars. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book as an Advanced Reader’s Copy.
Ava and Claudius had a connection that is until her twin sister Marissa decided she wanted him so when he was drunk she pretended to be Ava and spent the night with him that was the end of his and Ava’s relationship Now seven years later Marissa is dead and Claudius the head of his branch of the Chicago mafia is watching over Ava from afar but when a chance encounter brings them back together will they finally get the HEA they deserve or has too much damage been done You will have to read to see
Wow, this was so good. Strap in for one mind blowing rollercoaster ride as Ava and Claudius get their second chance at love. Intense, complicated, complex, dramatic, steamy and yes often painful. I will be honest, there was one plot point that I strongly disliked and it really bothered me. Even with that though, I found myself swept up into this epic, powerful romance.
I love this author and I loved this story. Heartbreaking and tender as Ava suffered as the love of her life, Claudius left her to marry her twin sister Marissa.
The story flips back and forth through their history and backstory, and the way Marissa betrayed both Claudius and Ava.
My heart broke for Ava as she never knew the truth behind their marriage and suffered alone for ten years. I understood Claudius and the way he forgave Marissa as he started to develop tender feelings for her after deciding to move on from his love for Ava. It never progressed, but I hated that part.
Fast paced with suspense, action, and betrayal.
I was rooting for Ava and her well deserved HEA that was a satisfying end to this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via Bad Boy Update.
Bad Boy mafia, good guy protector and a second chance for what’s right
Dirty Hearts (Gangsters and Dolls Book 1) by Khardine Gray has all the feels and then some! By then some I’m referring to all the breath-stealing drama, edge of your seat action, gripping danger, thrilling chemistry and the deep emotional connection of Ava and Claudius. I adore second chance romance! Despite his tough and mean exterior, Claudius is a romantic at heart and only for Ava.
I am an absolute fan of this author and she has delighted me again with a fantastic story, exciting plot and spectacular characters. I had the pleasure of revisiting characters from the Mafia Queen series playing prominent roles in this book, but it’s really standalone in case you haven’t read that series yet. I really enjoyed how she seamlessly blended their past and present throughout. Claudius and Ava will stay with me just as Luc and Amelia have, not to mention many other characters from her other books.
Overall a wonderfully well written book that leaves the reader craving more. And I am craving more even with the fitting and deserving, decade past due HEA for Claudius and Ava. Well done!
I read an ARC of this book and voluntarily share my review.
This is a spin-off from the Accidental Mafia Queen series. A great start to a new mafia series and a second chance romance story. A fantastic read!
Claudius Morientz is now the new mafia boss of the Rossi crime family after the death of Raphael Rossi because his brother, Lucious released his controlling interest. Claudius, his father and the famous four run the Chicago territory with an iron fists. He is reeling about the death of his wife after 7 years and seeking revenge and unexplained answers of occurrences with his plan.
Ava DeLuca is the sister to her identical twin Marissa…with two polar opposite of personality( extrovert/introvert). Ava and Claudius was completely into one another until a trick becomes the cause of the broken relationship leaving Ava devastating. Ava attended a culinary school and is the owner of her family restaurant and seeking to expand the family business. Her idea area to expand belongs to Claudius but the past is preventing any encounter with each other. But as they test their boundaries of business option, fate takes an unexpected turn, secrets revealed, old enemies threatening their lives and chance at a second chance of love…
The story is captivating, suspense and painful history combine into a complex tale of betrayal, jealousy, dark secrets, deadly twists and turns with so many WTH moments. Will the secrets tear them apart or bring them closer together. Who is the traitor(s) in the organization? What is the traitor personal gain?
****I voluntarily received an Advance Review Copy of this book in exchange for my honest review****
I loved that this is a crossover from Mafia Boss!!! This is Claudius’s story. You find out why he is so brooding and detached, and what part Ava plays in his life. The story is so wonderfully twisted and full of deceptions and misunderstandings that it’s a wonder either of them have survived so far. Its time for the truth to come out, for everyone, and now Claudius will stop at nothing to protect the only woman he has ever really loved! Such an amazing story!