I thought I could leave The Sect behind, and I made a life for myself away from them. They pulled me back in, but now some of them don’t seem very happy to have me around. Too bad.
Wow this is such an amazing read. Piper Stone is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. This is a story of a dominate alpha male who knows what he wants and takes what he wants. Christian is a millionaire and a member of the secret sec, Stephanie paid her own way through to become a lawyer but on her 24th birthday all that changes. Read to find out more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Author
rhondahicks
2 years ago
Do you love a bad boy that refuses to adhere to the strict rules set in front of him when he knows they’re wrong? Well, if so, you’ve got to read “Given.” This is predominantly the story about Christian and Stephanie but there is so, so much more. There is wealth, pomp, and circumstance. I was caught up in the assassination attempts and implied mafia connections. And where does the priest come into play. So many secrets. So many lies. So many questions. Family vs. family. Brother vs. brother. This is a powerful read that was thrilling in the telling.
Author
hazelm
2 years ago
WOW !!
This is a terrific book. Piper has written in her usual highly readable style and definitely qualifies as ‘hot’, or, more accurately ‘hottest’. I literally read it straight thru from start to finish without pause. Both Christian and Stephanie are interesting characters with a few quirks that make them feel quite real.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Author
lf
2 years ago
Could not get into the story
I am not going to lie as I did find Given to be a muddled story that I could not get into. I ended up skimming over chunks of the book to get the the ending. Overall I was just disappointed by Given.
I received a copy of this book for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Author
lisahelmick
2 years ago
This is intriguing. I could not stop listening to this. The suspense in here is sooo good! I never got it! Which makes me love this even more. The story flows along nicely and easily kept my interest. Of course I love the whole mafia-like family drama. The characters are secretive which drew me too them. Christian and Stephanie have quite the history and story together. As they are finding their way a lot is happening in the background. I loved it! This story has it all! Betrayal, steamy sexiness, secrets, power and above all else love of family. I did listen to this on audio. Thomas Locklear did an excellent job. He has that perfect gruff and domineering voice to be Christian as well as the other men.
Author
bette
2 years ago
Great Story & Audible Listen Thrilling Romantic Suspense!
Given
A Dark Mafia Romance
By: Piper Stone
Narrated by: Thomas Locklear
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it is well written with interesting storylines that are captivating from start to end. Piper Stone is a master at writing dark mafia romance novels, I found this story to be original, not your typical mafia romance. There is great character development and world building. The mafia in this book is a “Sacred Sect”, a secret society who live by their own rules and is run by five powerful families. They hold and control power over several industries and only the most elite are invited in. The five families are core and the first born male is expected to step into his father’s shoes take over for him. Christian is the eldest Cappodano and next in line but his brother Matteo is probably the better choice since he is more of a yes man. Christian knows there is no way out of his obligation, only death. Stephanie Michaelson, the daughter of another ruling family, she is back in the Hamptoms to learn her faith, which was determined just after birth. The Michaelson’s and Cappodano’s are enemies, so when Stephanie reads that she is to be married to Christian the families are upset as much as she is, she really wanted no part of any of it but had not choice. She and Christian have history, he was her savior at one time, rescued her from a near death situation. They set off on their honeymoon but their life is in jeopardy because they have a target on their back. But why, who is behind it, who is betraying them? There is never a dull moment in this book, it is cleverly plotted with plenty of drama, angst, mystery, thrilling suspense, some heartfelt moments as well as hot romance. Piper Stone, thank you for another great story and the thrilling and emotional rollercoaster ride.
I listened to the Audible edition, Thomas Locklear is a talented narrator and a versatile voice artist. He does an awesome job portraying the characters, bringing them to life, humanizing them giving them their own distinct voice and personality. He is exceptional at covering both male and female characters, switches roles back and forth with ease, never missing a beat. You could hear how much heart he puts into his work as he captures the characters emotions and projects them into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen
Author
dougkoshwilliamson
2 years ago
Our hero and heroine were contracted to be married, neither given any choice in the matter. While this is okay with the hero, it is not with the heroine and she causes problems to match. Fortunately, our hero has plans to make things better if only he can get her to go along with them.
This is mafia romance story with elements of D/S and spankings. The story is well written and easy to read while featuring a plot that has a lot of secrets, intrigue and twists to it. This part is rather nice and adds some excellent elements to the story. On the down side, the plot involves a cult, which I don’t care for, and our heroine is not just sassy, she is rather whiny and pigheaded. Fortunately, our hero has a plan to rectify both, resulting in a good solid read.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
Author
taniaogden66
2 years ago
Loved the book, the story was well written and the characters were intriguing. Once I started I could not get enough, from the start till the end I was engrossed I was even on the edge of my seat with twists and turns, lust and passion, strength happiness and funny. The story of erotic of sensation. Do yourself a favor and buy the book you want be disappointed.
Thank you for allowing me to review your book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Author
vickbett1
2 years ago
Given by Piper Stone is a dark romance which is impossible to put down until the book is completed. It focuses on Christian and Stephanie who were contracted to be married by the sect when they were children. They were raised by their parents in the sect where betrayal can result in death. Once married, Stephanie and Christian are targeted to die by the controlling elders of the sect for some unknown reason. I highly recommend this exciting novel which has mystery, intrigue, and sizzling chemistry.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Author
sharonreif
2 years ago
This author has done it again, she has written a fantastic book. The plot is one that left me stunned at times with the intrigue and the twists and turns. The characters seem to jump off the page as the author brings them to life. This really is a wonderful book and a must read for all dark romance fans.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Author
debrarichardson11
2 years ago
A compelling, riveting, and amazing read! The story-line is well-developed, relatable, engaging, well written, and consistent with lots of twists and turns, action-packed, drama, secrets, suspense, danger, violence, spanking, and hot, erotic, steamy kindle melting scenes. The characters are strong; the chemistry between them is intense and potent. This book takes you on a wild ride from beginning to a perfectly sweet end. Definitely recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Author
viro1114
2 years ago
I found storyline just as appealing as each of the other books I have read by this author. The characters are well developed and engaging and the chemistry is undeniable.. I was highly entertained with the characters and the storyline flowed smoothly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Author
ginka
2 years ago
Christian and Stephanie were both born into the world of the sect. A world where your life is not your own and you are expected to follow the rules and dictates set out for you. If you don’t follow them there are…………..consequences.
Trust is nonexistent, danger high, every word and decision can be…..deadly and your moves are under constant scrutiny.
But there are secrets within secrets, enemies, heat, chemistry, discipline, humiliation and agendas. But sometimes you may just be able to find the one you can trust with everything.
So well written, engrossing, captivating, dark and delicious.
Author
sewsummore
2 years ago
An intense story of love, drama and suspicion!
by sewsummore
There was a lot more than romance in this book. It was also about a secret society called the “Sacred Sect,” manipulation and fear. Christian, the son of one of the ruling five, is forced to marry Stephanie, the daughter of a fellow council member hoping that both families, once bitter enemies will become united. Christian had saved his wife’s life when she was just a teenager, from then, he had vowed to protect Stephanie, including making her his wife. The woman he would come to love with all his heart. From a forced beginning, the chemistry between them was intense and darkly erotic. When their lives were threatened, they fight for the right to survive. The suspense and the mystery of this story grabbed me, but it was the simmering attraction between Christian and Stephanie that thrilled me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Author
ginaburkart
2 years ago
Wow I don’t know what to say about this book other then WOW. This is a fast paced read that is dark and steamy with a mysterious twist throughout this story.
Author
sbeereviews
2 years ago
Setting the great plan in motion
—>>> The Sacred Sect is all that matters, bringing wealth and power to the five leaders who ruled. The joining of two of the great prominent families of the Council via the marriage of Stephanie and Christian was pre-planned long ago, wrapped and stored away in the Box to await unveiling. But like all others who are in positions of power, there lurks at least one shark or two readying for their moment to strike.
We witness Christian taking Stephanie in hand, demanding absolute obedience much like the sect. Stephanie strains at the confines of the marriage and her husband’s demands, until her heart catches up to what her body demands. Great suspense and twists, while we watch the ultimate plan unravel.
Author
tori26
2 years ago
Christian and Stephanie known each other since they were little , little did each know that their was also a marriage contract between. once Christian and Stephanie married they realized two things one the had feelings for each other and two someone was trying to kill them
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Author
kazza1957
2 years ago
This book is a dark read that has a little touch of BDSM
If you like steamy reads that’s full of action drama and
some twists than I definitely recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book via Booksprout.
Author
zoo2keepr
2 years ago
Her family gave her away…
This is one hot book. The main characters are both strong and they are made for each other. As you learn the intricacies of the mafia on steroids and this suspense filled book will take on a roll coaster of a ride. Someday the box will break. Did I say it’s hot with dabblings in the BDSM world. I would recommend this book to those who do not have triggers.
By piperstone
Wow this is such an amazing read. Piper Stone is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. This is a story of a dominate alpha male who knows what he wants and takes what he wants. Christian is a millionaire and a member of the secret sec, Stephanie paid her own way through to become a lawyer but on her 24th birthday all that changes. Read to find out more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Do you love a bad boy that refuses to adhere to the strict rules set in front of him when he knows they’re wrong? Well, if so, you’ve got to read “Given.” This is predominantly the story about Christian and Stephanie but there is so, so much more. There is wealth, pomp, and circumstance. I was caught up in the assassination attempts and implied mafia connections. And where does the priest come into play. So many secrets. So many lies. So many questions. Family vs. family. Brother vs. brother. This is a powerful read that was thrilling in the telling.
WOW !!
This is a terrific book. Piper has written in her usual highly readable style and definitely qualifies as ‘hot’, or, more accurately ‘hottest’. I literally read it straight thru from start to finish without pause. Both Christian and Stephanie are interesting characters with a few quirks that make them feel quite real.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Could not get into the story
I am not going to lie as I did find Given to be a muddled story that I could not get into. I ended up skimming over chunks of the book to get the the ending. Overall I was just disappointed by Given.
I received a copy of this book for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
This is intriguing. I could not stop listening to this. The suspense in here is sooo good! I never got it! Which makes me love this even more. The story flows along nicely and easily kept my interest. Of course I love the whole mafia-like family drama. The characters are secretive which drew me too them. Christian and Stephanie have quite the history and story together. As they are finding their way a lot is happening in the background. I loved it! This story has it all! Betrayal, steamy sexiness, secrets, power and above all else love of family. I did listen to this on audio. Thomas Locklear did an excellent job. He has that perfect gruff and domineering voice to be Christian as well as the other men.
Great Story & Audible Listen Thrilling Romantic Suspense!
Given
A Dark Mafia Romance
By: Piper Stone
Narrated by: Thomas Locklear
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it is well written with interesting storylines that are captivating from start to end. Piper Stone is a master at writing dark mafia romance novels, I found this story to be original, not your typical mafia romance. There is great character development and world building. The mafia in this book is a “Sacred Sect”, a secret society who live by their own rules and is run by five powerful families. They hold and control power over several industries and only the most elite are invited in. The five families are core and the first born male is expected to step into his father’s shoes take over for him. Christian is the eldest Cappodano and next in line but his brother Matteo is probably the better choice since he is more of a yes man. Christian knows there is no way out of his obligation, only death. Stephanie Michaelson, the daughter of another ruling family, she is back in the Hamptoms to learn her faith, which was determined just after birth. The Michaelson’s and Cappodano’s are enemies, so when Stephanie reads that she is to be married to Christian the families are upset as much as she is, she really wanted no part of any of it but had not choice. She and Christian have history, he was her savior at one time, rescued her from a near death situation. They set off on their honeymoon but their life is in jeopardy because they have a target on their back. But why, who is behind it, who is betraying them? There is never a dull moment in this book, it is cleverly plotted with plenty of drama, angst, mystery, thrilling suspense, some heartfelt moments as well as hot romance. Piper Stone, thank you for another great story and the thrilling and emotional rollercoaster ride.
I listened to the Audible edition, Thomas Locklear is a talented narrator and a versatile voice artist. He does an awesome job portraying the characters, bringing them to life, humanizing them giving them their own distinct voice and personality. He is exceptional at covering both male and female characters, switches roles back and forth with ease, never missing a beat. You could hear how much heart he puts into his work as he captures the characters emotions and projects them into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen
Our hero and heroine were contracted to be married, neither given any choice in the matter. While this is okay with the hero, it is not with the heroine and she causes problems to match. Fortunately, our hero has plans to make things better if only he can get her to go along with them.
This is mafia romance story with elements of D/S and spankings. The story is well written and easy to read while featuring a plot that has a lot of secrets, intrigue and twists to it. This part is rather nice and adds some excellent elements to the story. On the down side, the plot involves a cult, which I don’t care for, and our heroine is not just sassy, she is rather whiny and pigheaded. Fortunately, our hero has a plan to rectify both, resulting in a good solid read.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
Loved the book, the story was well written and the characters were intriguing. Once I started I could not get enough, from the start till the end I was engrossed I was even on the edge of my seat with twists and turns, lust and passion, strength happiness and funny. The story of erotic of sensation. Do yourself a favor and buy the book you want be disappointed.
Thank you for allowing me to review your book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Given by Piper Stone is a dark romance which is impossible to put down until the book is completed. It focuses on Christian and Stephanie who were contracted to be married by the sect when they were children. They were raised by their parents in the sect where betrayal can result in death. Once married, Stephanie and Christian are targeted to die by the controlling elders of the sect for some unknown reason. I highly recommend this exciting novel which has mystery, intrigue, and sizzling chemistry.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This author has done it again, she has written a fantastic book. The plot is one that left me stunned at times with the intrigue and the twists and turns. The characters seem to jump off the page as the author brings them to life. This really is a wonderful book and a must read for all dark romance fans.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A compelling, riveting, and amazing read! The story-line is well-developed, relatable, engaging, well written, and consistent with lots of twists and turns, action-packed, drama, secrets, suspense, danger, violence, spanking, and hot, erotic, steamy kindle melting scenes. The characters are strong; the chemistry between them is intense and potent. This book takes you on a wild ride from beginning to a perfectly sweet end. Definitely recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I found storyline just as appealing as each of the other books I have read by this author. The characters are well developed and engaging and the chemistry is undeniable.. I was highly entertained with the characters and the storyline flowed smoothly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Christian and Stephanie were both born into the world of the sect. A world where your life is not your own and you are expected to follow the rules and dictates set out for you. If you don’t follow them there are…………..consequences.
Trust is nonexistent, danger high, every word and decision can be…..deadly and your moves are under constant scrutiny.
But there are secrets within secrets, enemies, heat, chemistry, discipline, humiliation and agendas. But sometimes you may just be able to find the one you can trust with everything.
So well written, engrossing, captivating, dark and delicious.
An intense story of love, drama and suspicion!
by sewsummore
There was a lot more than romance in this book. It was also about a secret society called the “Sacred Sect,” manipulation and fear. Christian, the son of one of the ruling five, is forced to marry Stephanie, the daughter of a fellow council member hoping that both families, once bitter enemies will become united. Christian had saved his wife’s life when she was just a teenager, from then, he had vowed to protect Stephanie, including making her his wife. The woman he would come to love with all his heart. From a forced beginning, the chemistry between them was intense and darkly erotic. When their lives were threatened, they fight for the right to survive. The suspense and the mystery of this story grabbed me, but it was the simmering attraction between Christian and Stephanie that thrilled me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Wow I don’t know what to say about this book other then WOW. This is a fast paced read that is dark and steamy with a mysterious twist throughout this story.
Setting the great plan in motion
—>>> The Sacred Sect is all that matters, bringing wealth and power to the five leaders who ruled. The joining of two of the great prominent families of the Council via the marriage of Stephanie and Christian was pre-planned long ago, wrapped and stored away in the Box to await unveiling. But like all others who are in positions of power, there lurks at least one shark or two readying for their moment to strike.
We witness Christian taking Stephanie in hand, demanding absolute obedience much like the sect. Stephanie strains at the confines of the marriage and her husband’s demands, until her heart catches up to what her body demands. Great suspense and twists, while we watch the ultimate plan unravel.
Christian and Stephanie known each other since they were little , little did each know that their was also a marriage contract between. once Christian and Stephanie married they realized two things one the had feelings for each other and two someone was trying to kill them
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is a dark read that has a little touch of BDSM
If you like steamy reads that’s full of action drama and
some twists than I definitely recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book via Booksprout.
Her family gave her away…
This is one hot book. The main characters are both strong and they are made for each other. As you learn the intricacies of the mafia on steroids and this suspense filled book will take on a roll coaster of a ride. Someday the box will break. Did I say it’s hot with dabblings in the BDSM world. I would recommend this book to those who do not have triggers.
Well worth reading!