It was the worst day of my life. I know most people say that about something obviously horrific—a first heartbreak, the discovery of a fatal illness, or the funeral of a loved one—but my situation was a little different. Not only was it my wedding day, but it was also the day I chose to die. Two men. The first, my Master, my captor, and my impossible love. The other, his brother, a mafioso I was … brother, a mafioso I was meant to ensnare and ruin.
If I had any hope of living a normal life reunited with my family, I had to make a choice.
End my old life as I knew it and start fresh, or take down the monsters that hunted me and haunted my Master.
In the end, the decision was never really mine to make. Because Alexander Davenport would come to claim me even in death.
** The Enslaved Duet is a standalone dark romance duet about Cosima Lombardi from The Evolution of Sin Trilogy. Enthralled must be read before Enamoured.**
more
Xan and Cosima’s story was worth the wait! The highs and lows, the ups and downs the twists and turns, all of it made for one delicious, crazy, sensual story. I just could not get enough of them!
An amazing conclusion to the epic romance between Cosima and Alexander. I was really anxious after reading the ending of the first book, trying to figure out how in the world would they make their relationship work. There were so many things working against them, against their love, and it was hard to see how this would be a happily ever after for them. But, like always, Giana Darling weaves a story so expertly and amazingly epic that you can’t help but fall in love over and over with Cosima and Alexander. Giana drew me in from her first words in Chapter One, needing to know how Alexander was going to handle his beloved running away. It was more than I could ask for. There was so much heartache at the beginning of this book, for both Cosima and Alexander, but as you read you learn that a lot of it was manufactured and necessary. You learn about all the sacrifices that Alexander made for his beloved. The lengths that he went through for her was just unimaginable and amazing. You also learn that Cosima did what she had to do to cope. She did some things that might have upset or hurt Alexander, but I found myself sympathizing with her and understanding her situation. Her love for Alexander was limitless, and there are several instances that she proved that. And even though she was his submissive, his “slave”, she was the strongest person in this book. She didn’t need anyone to save her, she would save herself. I appreciated that about her. I loved Cosima since I first met her in The Evolution of Sin series, and I am beyond happy that she did get her HEA!!
3.5 Stars!
I will start off my saying that like always I absolutely love the way Giana wrote this story; with flourish and poetic language. She has the art of story telling which I adore. This story was similar in tone to Enthralled. It was dark, gritty and brutal. I believe Alex and Cosi’s separation was MUCH NEEDED and was the catalyst is cementing their relationship and steering it to a more balanced place.
I actually liked Alex in this book. I wasn’t impressed with him from the start but as we got deeper into his mind, I started to like him, specially as Cosi’s partner. He developed a LOT and I like that Cosi was the reason for that.
So Cosima did change a lot and at some points I was sure she was going to ruin everyone who ever hurt her. She did a lot of things I don’t agree with but mostly the things she did were so out of character for her. So, I don’t know that left me in a bit of limbo in terms of how I feel about her.
I don’t think so many twists were needed because I wanted them to get their HEA and it kept getting delayed.
I am excited to see what’s next in this universe. I believe Dante’s book is next and I have high hopes.
I’m totally enamoured not only with this book but with this author. Giana Darling you have captivated such a beautiful story of love and loss that will remain with me forever.
Alexander and Cosima’s story was worth the wait. Xan’s love for not only his slave but his equal is unapologetic. His fierce and possessive and I love how he gives 110% with his heart for her even if he doesn’t believe he can be loved or love back. The broken pieces of these two characters was violent and tragic but I would not had it any other way.
Now my Queen Cosima. Giana you inherited all the traits of a warrior with an almighty selfless heart and injected it into Cosi. She is definitely one of my favourite heroines you have created. Her love is bountiful and everlasting and I’m glad after all they have been through , they got there HEA
If you love sting alpha possessive males and storyline’s that are so intriguing from the very start, then I highly recommend this series.
Giana Darling did it again. She has such a dynamic gift. Her words are magical. I love the conclusion to Master Alexander and Cosima ‘s story. One of my most anticipated reads this year. This story is amazing from the beginning to the end. It was a exciting, sexy read to the end. Cosima is a strong and beautiful character. I loved her from the beginning. Alexander was a bit unlikable but he redeems himself. 5 easy stars.
“Every predator is prey to something.”
Giana Darling’s writing is always a delight to read. With a distinct flourish, the dark sensuous sentences and bright romantic moments intertwine into an evocative and raw narrative. Full of wanton twists and devious intentions, the eroticism and lasciviousness delivered a rich, intricate romance—the vicious albeit flawless conclusion for Cosima and Alexander.
“They made him into a monster, so I was going to become theirs.”
Cosima, still shadowed by heartache, blooms into a fiercer woman with strength and reverence. She’s constructed fortified and hardened barriers to enclose her bruised and battered heart, but this decision doesn’t diminish her abilities to become a contender in an uncertain and dangerous situation, or belittle her tenacious and determined attitude to succeed in obtaining an evermore.
Devilish and handsome, Alexander’s as casually devious and cruelly deviant, threaded with a hardened exterior and promises of licentious domination and debauched servitude. However, we witness a softer, more affectionate side blossom that made falling in love with this cold anti-hero easier. His warm-hearted side is reserved for Cosima—his wife, his slave and his beauty.
“Where ever you are, however far away for whatever length of time, I’m yours.”
In Enamoured, Xan and Cosi have a bittersweet reunion, but the moment they reunite is short-lived; there’s no lack of imminent danger lurking within the shadows, or sacrifice to secure a safe, irrevocable love forevermore. It is savage and arduous, however the outcome is as beautifully intense and wonderfully passionate. Xan and Cosi’s connection burns brighter and magnifies into something greater.
There are a couple of things you are guaranteed when reading Giana’s books, one; they are a good meaty read with an in-depth story that will suck you in, spin you around with twists and turns and spit you back out leaving you question your beliefs. The second and most important is those extra panties you will need as she is guaranteed to turn up the heat in ways you wouldn’t believe and Enamoured lived up to every bit of this.
We start where book one finished and Cosima has left Alexander on their wedding day in order to save him and he’s going out of his mind that someone has taken her but he can’t retaliate due to the ‘Order’ and their rules, putting her in danger.
We then see Cosima a month later, struggling for work, this is where she meets Daniel Sinclair, who takes her under his wing and the start of her new life without Alexander begins. A year later she sees him, although she wants to stay away from him, the pull to her master is strong and she follows him to confront him. This doesn’t go well and he tells her to move on leaving her behind. Poor Cosima, I ached for her here and I wanted Alexander to claim her once again.
When Alexander turned up to claim her back again, winning her in the auction, making everyone know she was his, I had goosebumps. And when he laid it all out for her to show how he cared and had been looking out for her all those years I was giddy with excitement. Alexander was back and his possessiveness of her shone so bright.
“You are my wife, for better or worse, and I’m coming for you, Cosima, to install you at my side where you belong. You can run. But I think we’ve proven, I’ll always find you.”
Although Cosima is hurt from his words all those years ago, she can’t deny him. He is the other half of her soul. The way Giana wrote about their love for one and other will make your heart happy, it was passionate and so honest.
Each book I read of Giana’a gets hotter and hotter and the master/slave relationship only turns up the heat more. Alexander is one hot strong, dominant alpha male who will make you want to drop to your knee and get in position for him. What I especially liked were a few of the more tender moments between them when it wasn’t always slave/master roles.
The story of Cosima and Alexander is so in-depth with many twists and turns I never thought they were going to get their HEA. The story is dark, intense and so brutal at points, but on the other side, they went through so much together to prove they could get through the dark.
The epilogue was just perfect and a great full circle moment where love and family are the central theme, and the teasing of Sebastians story has only left me wanting more.
One final thing, I’m not so sure about DaElena. My feelings for her are not the best, she’s so cold and prude and Dante needs more than that! I will however eat my words when your magical writing turns things around, but I just wanted to put it out there
*An ARC received for an honest review*
____________________
Overall Ratings;u2063
First Sex Scene -40%
POV – Duel
Hero –
Heroine –
Story –
Angst –
Steam –
Chemistry –
This book was dark and delicious and dangerous and magical in its poetic prose. Giana Darling truly gave us the story of a lifetime in Alexander and Cosima. The characters were fantastic. So well developed and I’m left wanting to know the side characters’ stories. The plot was fast paced and action packed, so twisted and full of secrets that my head was spinning. If you’re looking for a romance book that will totally elevate you to a higher understanding and appreciation of pleasure and pain, this is it. Read this book right now!
I must start out by saying I am in complete awe of this author. She blew me away with this duet. After reading Enthralled, I couldn’t wait for the final book in the duet, and boy does it pack a punch. It starts out where we left off with the first book and just continued from there. So much goes on in this story with Alexander and Cosima, that your head will spin! These two characters are forever ingrained in my heart. Cosima is such a strong, female character that you can’t help but love her as she proves time and again she is no pushover. And the lengths that Alexander goes thru for her will make your heart melt. Keep in mind there are parts in this book that will make you cringe but this author tells a story that you will never forget. It is absolutely incredible!
This book was SOOOOO worth the wait!!!! I have read every book that this author has written and I can honestly say that her stories just keep getting better and better. This is a dark and twisty roller coaster that had my emotions all over the place. I loved how strong and determined Cosima was and how no matter what awful thing happened, she just kept fighting away for the life she knows she deserves. This wasn’t an easy book to read as this journey was filled with heartbreak, hurt, family drama and difficult relationships, but it was totally worth it.
Beyond thrilled to have the super sexy conclusion to Cosima’s story. Darling has outdone herself. Beyond fascinated with Alexander Davenport and live how she cleverly ties the story in to the Evolution of Sin series where we first meet the heroine. Bellisimo.
I thought I was prepared for this book, but I WASN’T READY AT ALL.
This novel is extremely dark and sinfully delicious. The twists and turns, the deceptions and revenge, and the elaborate underground worlds Giana has created will set anyone’s dark-o-meter a blazing.
Never in my life have I read a book in which I felt so much dread, elation, passion, love, and strength all wrapped up in one.
In this conclusion, we see Cosima truly discovers who she is and her acceptance with it. She finally understands the fact that sometimes it’s ok to choose to live in the dark…especially if that is where you are meant to be; where you thrive. We also see that Cosi truly is a fighter, both physically and mentally, and not just for herself, but for those she cares for.
Alexander, #YESMASTER, finally discovers that he is not the villain he has convinced himself to be. He is a hero, albeit a dark hero, but a hero nonetheless. His heart beats like everyone else’s and he truly does have the ability to love Cosi.
This duet was brilliantly executed, with a unique plot line and amazing character development and growth.
An absolutely amazing conclusion to the Enslaved Duet!
I give this book 3.75 stars………..
I was so excited to finally get this book in my hands. I’ve been waiting to see how Alexander and Cosima’s story would end. Darling left us with such an intense cliffhanger in Enthralled.
This book had all the things Darling is known for when it comes to her writing. It was dark, intense, sexy, a hard read at times. At least for me it was. There were times were it was very fast paced and then times where it was slow and it felt like it dragged for me. The ending is where it really picked up and things got really good. If you are looing for an action packed read this one is it.
I can’t wait to read Dante’s story.
Giana Darling’s writing is brilliant!
Enamoured continues right where Enthralled ends, the action starts from chapter one and continues throughout the story.
Cosima and Xan can’t seem to catch a break from the forces that do not wish them to be together. It is on battle after the next; however, these battles make the love so much stronger. You just have to root for this couple.
This was so worth the wait!!
I always knew this book was going to crush my heart from the events of book one, but I don’t think I was prepared for how much it would mess with my emotions. This book consumed me in every way; the writing is passionate and graphic. The author makes you feel everything. We are taken on a tumultuous ride of epic proportions. This is a love story like no other.
I wasn’t a great fan of Alexander in the beginning, he was cold, aloof and tyrannical. He soon won me over, you could feel the change in his character, it was gradual. Great character development and brilliant secondary characters. There is definitely room for Sebastian’s story and I would love to know more about Dante… I am totally besotted with him!
4.5 stars. Cosima is my favorite amongst the Lombardi sisters so I admire her in all the ways. As for Alexander, he is proof that a hardened man has tenderness in his heart buried somewhere underneath. I know that Alexander is cold and cruel, acting very impassive and dominating. However, he is nothing like his father, who is absolute evil incarnated with no compassion or sensitivity whatsoever. The things I wanted to see in Alexander as a lover, husband and caretaker was finally portrayed in this book. Cosima has been in the United States making a new life for herself and surrounded by her family, the people she worked so hard to provide for. They have no idea what Cosima has sacrificed for them. Having Alexander’s POV really helped to see where his head was at. Although it was not his choice to have Cosima so far away from him, the time and distance seemed to offer a lot of clarity to him and to truly value Cosima for who she is without being ashamed to admit it. Of course there is a lot regarding The Order, the terrible organization that Alexander is a part of that his father leads. This story is dark and foreboding, yet I loved the surprises and twists. The dynamic between Cosima and Alexander is electric as always, but to see them both work towards the same goal without knowing they are on the same team was somewhat of a revelation as to how much they wanted better for the other. Some scenes were particularly exciting and had me reading as fast as I could with my heart pounding because of the anticipation and the high stakes at hand. It’s a worthwhile conclusion that has been long awaited.
Totally worth the wait! This book had everything in it! Suspense. Intrigue. Hotness . Redeemable characters. Family drama…. all of it…. packed into this one book. Cosmina and Alexander had to get through so much to be together! Every time they overcame something and you thought they might FINALLY get their happily ever after…. something else happens. And these are not small things…. they are HUGE things happening to keep them apart! The strength that Cosmina shows through this entire story is just awe inspiring! I absolutely love these 2…. and Alexander does NOT start out as a lovable character…. Hot, yes! Lovable…. not so much….. by 1/3 of the way through this book that man had me swooning hard core! The things that he says… but then in the next breath says that he isn’t capable of love….whew! I very much enjoyed their story. Theirs is a story that I will want to read again and again!
My biggest Peeve was it dragged a bit to long. Comisa was put through way to much. Always so tough brave then the end with taken again she barely fought I thought for sure she would of fought this one before he took her. I think I feel more in love with Dante than Xan .. Just made me want the brothers story more both Dante and Sebastian’s. I loved you got a little of the Lombardi family.
Cosima Lombardi paid so many prices for her family, for her husband, for a dad she loved till he threw her to the wolves, only to fall for a Wolf , a dad she didnt know, a best friend .. She bares many secrets and many scars for one woman all for her family.
Alexander Xan Davenport ,Lord of Thorton and heir to the Dukedom of Greythorn knew who she was and who she would be but never thought he had a heart considering he was raised by the devil himself.
“I still had the taste of my wife on my tongue , sweat on my face, and my fathers blood on my fist.”
“To see her was to want her, to know her at all was to be enamoured by her. I’d bought her as a weapon to use against my enemies and she’d become the ultimate tool for my own destruction.”
“Do you really like to play with life and death by standing out in the freezing rain?”
“Not in this particular way,no,but you’d be surprised how often I straddle that fine line”
“I have a feeling her money eyes have taken her places before and that won’t stop now”
“They took something from me. One thing that might have meant eveyrthing.”
“That’s exactly the stuff of my nightmare. That my beautiful,sweet sister had to do the unspeakable to get us out of that Neapolitan sinkhole.”
“Appear weak when you strong. and strong when you weak.”
“Sometimes the worst monsters hide in the prettiest packages”
“Even a predator is prey to something. I had things to take care of before I could reclaim you, but now you’ve forced my hand. I will not have you with another man. Not even if my body was cold and dead in the ground would you belong to someone other than me.”
“You could never make up for everything that’s happened and I have no faith that you’d even know how to try.”
“Don’t put yourself at risk for a man you’ve romanticized in your memories.”
“You told me I would have to earn your submission again,but that’s not the truth, is it, my beauty? I need to earn your trust again, your tenderness and your depthless heart. But your submission? Ah, that is intrinsically mine. The way the moon owns the tide and the sun owns the sky.”
“Do you know what it is like for a man used to power and spoils when he is helpless to keep and worship the one thing he wants the most?”
“I won’t ever belong to someone if they don’t also belong to me”
“Where ever you are, however far away for whatever length of time, I’m yours.”
“I’ve been killed and reborn so many times in my life, it’s a wonder I have any authenticity at all”
“To kill our demons, first we must master them.”
“She made me feel for the first time in my life like a hero, instead of a villain. She does that to people, makes them feel ten feet taller”
“But now, I give you my whole heart and hope that you will let me prove to you every day from here on out, that I am worthy of yours in return”
“Trust me, I’ve met men much more powerful and much crueler than you”
“No Cosi, the Lombardi girls have a knack for saving lost men”
Giana Darling brings her A-game to Enamoured, Book 2 in The Enslaved Duet. This book is jam-packed with all kinds of emotions and the story goes non-stop from the start. I love Giana’s writing, at times so beautifully descriptive I could cry…actually, at times I did. I can’t say I was completely taken by Alexander at the end of Book 1, but I was all-in halfway through Book 2. Cosima is like Wonder Woman, nothing and nobody is going to stop her. Together, the two of them are completely combustible. I so wanted to give this book 5 stars, but just couldn’t. I found some of the stuff Cosima survived stretched believability to the breaking point, ergo the 4 stars. However, I completely and utterly adored Cosima and her moxie, believable or not. Alexander made my heart swoon. He is the ultimate Alpha-male! There was lots happening here, twists, turns, heartbreaking truths and consequences. I enjoyed it all to the max! Another great book from this talented author…don’t miss it!
LOVE these two and LOVE this duet! I have loved these two as a couple from the very beginning, Alexander’s dark side and all. This was a great ending to this duet but I’m sad to see them go. Buckle up because you know this couples relationship has been a rollercoaster ride from the beginning.