I’m king of the criminal underworld.I always get what I want.And she’s my obsession.Cora is new to the city of sin.Her innocent blue eyes beg for me to claim her.But I’m not the billionaire she thinks I am.There’s a darkness within me.And Cora is a shining light.She’s beautiful. A virgin.I’m ruthless. A beast.She found me for a reason.She’ll be my queen.I’ll give her everything that her heart … queen.
I’ll give her everything that her heart desires.
Except for one thing.
Her freedom.
She’s mine to keep, and I’m never letting her go.
Note: This is a dark mafia romance with dark and intense sensual scenes. It is the first in a trilogy.
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I can’t tell you how excited I was when I found out one of my favorite authors, Stasia Black had teamed up with one of my NEW favorite authors, Lee Savino. This book was everything and more that I had hoped for. The book is full of surprises, shock and awe and some great sex scenes. Marcus Ubeli seems almost too good to be true when he rescues Cora from what appears to be an unsuccessful date rape. Cora is quickly thrust into Marcus’ world of lavish wealth and protection but he appears to be hiding something. I feel I am good at predicting the way a book is destined to proceed but this totally surprised me. The book ends in a cliffhanger and I can definitely tell you that I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series, Awakening and hope that it gets published SOON!
I was gratefully given an ARC in exchange for an honest and totally voluntary review.
Innocence is a very intense, twisted dark mafia romance. I read it in one sitting, finishing at 1:30 a.m. on a work day! I was captivated after reading the first page. The story was dramatic, emotional and a lot of steam. There was no way to anticipate where the story would go. I was disappointed that this was book one of a trilogy. I cannot wait until book two comes out, and it will be another late night. Lee and Stasia hit this out of the park.
A DARKLY psychological and erotic novel about a man of POWER and the woman who dares to love him.
OMW! I am only half-way through this breathtaking novel, and I had to stop for two reasons. First, there is so much going on I just need a moment to digest before moving on to whatever is next. Each page is full of action and new information written in easy-to-read, yet descriptive prose. Second, I am so in love with Cora and her naiveté that I find myself unable to even take a deep breath as my reading is taking me ever closer to the point when I know everything will change. Until then, I will continue to be focused on this novel and on the relationship between Cora and Marcus. A relationship accelerated by circumstances and interpreted by limited experience, at least through Cora’s point of view. While reading, each breath has matched a punctuation mark, each character has pulled at my emotional being, and the complex plotlines have guided me through actions as if my conscience exists only on the pages of “INNOCENCE.” This one is dark, with explicitly sexual scenes that make it suitable for readers 18 and over, and it includes some triggers, so readers need to be aware. If you like your romances to be well-written, action-packed and STEAMILY romantic, then “INNOCENCE” should be your next romance purchase! Just one other warning – there is a cliff at the end as this is the first part of a trilogy. I can hardly wait for the rest!! Happy pages!
I NEED MORE OF THIS!!! I’ve been a long time fan of Lee Savino and have read a few books by Stasia Black so I knew roughly what I was getting myself into with this one. I say roughly because I don’t think I was totally prepared for the emotions this one pulled out of me. I actually had to pause a few times to catch my breath (I mean that in the best way) but I couldn’t stay away from it for very long. It called to me with this seductive voice and, like Cora, I kept being sucked under. Everything about it is dark and twisted.
Complex, believable characters are something that is kind of a must for me. I need to connect to them, understand where they are coming from, and believe in the things they do and say. Cora and Marcus were all of those and more. There is also a solid storyline that could be enjoyed even without all the heat (don’t take out the heat!) and support characters that add to the adventure instead of distract. It does end in a cliffhanger, but I think it happened at a spot that doesn’t leave the reader hanging too badly. I’m excited to see what the next stage of their adventure brings.
Snake charmer
Cora has left one prison behind, had a glimpse of freedom and finds herself in another type of prision. I really liked her spunk and zest for experiencing life, her trust and openness to new experiences.
What she didn’t bargain for was the experience of Marcus, smooth, manipulative, deceptive, handsome, vengeful. A web is woven, truths revealed, dreams shattered, lust rises, enemies revealed, and their relationship is in a state of……….well you will have to read the rest for yourself! I can’t wait for the next book in this series!!
This one took me for a ride. I went in not knowing what to expect, and I’m glad I did. My first impression of Marcus was severely tainted after his relationship of Cora pursued. I could FEEL Cora turmoil and the feelings she had toward Marcus. I enjoyed the Gods of Olympus theme with this one. The sexiness level was high and the twists were perfect. I cannot wait to see how it all ends….
I accidentally read this dark Mafia book in one sitting. I just meant to have a quick flick through and get started tomorrow. But when I read the prologue, I got hooked. This is part one of a trilogy, so while there’s no cliffhanger, there is no resolution either. The story is based on the Greek myth of Hades, god of the underworld, and Persephone, daughter of Demeter, the goddess of nature. There are lots of mythological references (my favourite is Sharos/Charon). For those not familiar with the myth, I don’t want to spoil the plot, because I enjoyed the twists in the story, and the twists in the characters. Cora and Marcus, one knows too much and one knows nothing. Cora is finding her strength and a showdown is coming. There are elements of BDSM and power exchange. Looking forward to the next part.
I received a copy of this book. My honest review is voluntarily provided.
This is an outstanding & somewhat dark mafia romance with an undertone of Greek Mythology; it is the first book in the series “Tales of Olympus” The story-line is well-thought out and written with a suspenseful plot, which definitely kept my attention. The characters are well-developed & have strong personalities but are emotional flawed with a variety of traits and different sides to their individual personalities.
There is: a beautiful but rather naive young woman (Cora Vestian) is drugged & abducted but manages to escape & runs into the ruthless leader/king of the underworld (Marcus Ubeli) who has devious plans in store for Cora, twists & turns, intrigue, suspense, danger, violence, threats, enemies, manipulations, deceit, betrayal, humor, friendship, revenge, hatred, confusion, emotional turmoil, defiance, resistance, spanking, domination/submission, sexual intimacy, verbal cruelty, vulnerability, fear, verbal conflict, confrontations, injuries & misunderstandings.
Sadly this book does end on a cliffhanger but I look forward to the next book in the series with great anticipation.
I cannot say how much my heart hurts right now! Omg Cora and Marcus’ story is gut wrenching and beautiful all at the same time. I can’t say much more without giving everything away but I need book 2 like I need my next breath
The Lord of the Underworld Mr. Marcus Ubeli cant get any more exciting then that he is one intense scary intimidating man and one to be feared in this fantastic exciting mafia/Greek Myth that I am loving and totally invested in and he wants the innocent Cora who has been sheltered all her life and hes not letting go for anything or anyone it was nice to see her find some voice toward the end but oh boy this has you on the edge of your seat right to the very end, the history these two have is fascinating and dramatic and super sexy. This is an intense story you never know whats going to hit you next until you turn that page and I cannot wait I’m so excited for the next one to see where this is going to go.
Dark romance with jaw-dropping, shocking, unexpected twist
Exceptionally well written, Innocence (A Dark Mafia Romance) by Lee Savino and Stasia Black is an awesome blending of these two authors. I was captivated by these characters from the beginning and enthralled with their story.
This dark mafia romance has all the feels to the extreme. I found this book to be pulse pounding, gripping and raw in equal measure while at times lulled by chivalry and even few tender moments. An absolute page turner that left me feeling awed and craving more.
Overall, an explosive first Book that is exceptionally well written, captivating and engaging start to finish.
I read an ARC of this book and voluntarily share my review.
ONE RAZORS EDGE ADVENTURE!!!
OMG! Wow! Talk about hitting the ground running. One swirling, twirling eddy of unforseen activities and surprising mishaps blast all of your emotions forward in this blazing storyline and electrifying plot. One non-stop, action packed, face paced, hard hitting, page flipping dynamo that keeps you riveted on a razors edge. All the drama, uncertainty, danger and suspense make for one thrilling experience. Twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few bumps and bruises bring this baby together flawlessly. The characters are authentic, relatable and realistic with depth and on point personalities it feels like you can just reach out and touch them. The scenes are written with such realism it catapults this bad boy bursting to life perfectly. Amazing job Stasia and Lee, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Cliff hanger…
I loved this trilogy! The story of Marcus, the king of the underworld and Cora, the little girl who’s not in Kansas anymore. Marcus is powerful and dark, trying to keep his demons at bay. Cora is only 19 but has led an abused life. Their love story is magnificent and continues in Awakened to be completed in Queen of the Underworld. Loosely based on the story of Hades and Persephone. A must read trilogy!
This is definitely a great book if you want an escape from every day life, but I will warn you that there is a cliffhanger that will have you wanting to jump into the next. A book where you think you know what is going on and the, bam! A twist that has your heart breaking more than once. A fantastic listen!
Incredible Chemistry! Marcus And Cora’s Journey Weaves A Dark Love Story Into A Suspenseful Read About Mobsters, Turf Wars, And Revenge. Marcus Is Scary And Emotionless, While Cora Is Seeing And Learning About The Outside World For The First Time Ever.
This is book one in a Dark Romance Trilogy. It is followed by Awakening and Queen of the Underworld.
Cora Vestian, nineteen, finally escaped the from home. She was raised off the grid by a rigid and overcontrolling mother who lectured about needing to protect Cora from the dangers of the world. She had kept Cora’s existence a secret to protect her, yet her own mother beat her and locked her away for days at a time.
Cora is the epitome of innocense when she makes her way from her remote farm to New Olympus without money or ID. She soon secures a nanny job. Bad luck seems to follow her, and when she finally makes friends and goes out, she ends up drugged and kidnapped. But she crosses paths with a handsome knight in shining armor, and her life soon becomes like a fairy tale.
Marcus Ubeli, thirty-two, is taken aback by Cora’s beauty when she enters his office, dirty and tattered. Her innocence reminds him of someone – and a debt is owed. He doesn’t do emotions and he isn’t going to start now, yet he can’t let Cora go. He is the perfect gentlemen with her, courteous and thoughtful. To everyone else, though, he is the cold Lord of the Underworld of New Olympus, a master manipulator and brutal crime lord in command of his own army.
Marcus and Cora’s journey weaves a dark love story into a suspenseful read about mobsters, turf wars, and revenge. Marcus and Cora can’t be more opposite. Marcus is scary and emotionless, while Cora is seeing and learning about the outside world for the first time ever. Her naivete contrasts starkly with Marcus’s manipulation skills. He has a plan for Cora, but her sincere affection gives him pause. Meanwhile, Cora sees the goodness in Marcus in spite of what she hears from others. Under deeply emotional circumstances, the two dance around their feelings for one a other. At the end of the day, though, Cora is a survivor, and if need be she will escape her new life and Marcus just as she had escaped her mother. This book ends at a good transition point leading into book two of the series.
For those paying attention to the details, the length of time that Cora is in New Olympus doesn’t always add up, so that is sometimes confusing. It is a minor discrepancy, though, and easily overlooked when reading.
Wow! Marcus and Cora’s dark and angsty story will leave you reaching for book two in the series. The couple’s chemistry is incredible, and BDSM elements play a role. Their story is well-written. The plot is somewhat complex. It unfolds slowly, revealing surprises along the way. It takes place in the vivid world of New Olympus, which appears in other books by the authors as well. The characters are nicely defined. The story is written in third person. The POV alternates between Cora and Marcus. I rate this book 4.5 stars.
Cora suffers for her family’s sins. As in most mafia stories, the innocent are the ones who pay the dearest. I had a hard time feeling anything for Marcus. He had one thing on his mind, revenge. His every action revolved around seeking revenge for his sister. I loved how tight the family ties were written, but I found myself hurting for Cora more than finding refuge in the hero. This story is not for the weak of heart. It is well written and invokes feelings that I have not felt often for characters. I could not put it down.
Jack Calihan is one of my favorite narrators. I have listened to most everything he has narrated. He has the perfect voice for these dark romances. He brings out the roughness and cruelness of the hero, yet has a way to bring out the softness of the heroine. He has a voice that I get so lost in, I forget I am listening to a book. Mr. Calihan brings anything he narrates to life.
Cora, innocent, vulnerable, abused, locked up in the house by her mother. Only to finally run away to the city, right into danger. This is where she meets Mafia king, Marcus Ubeti. Domineering, Dangerous, very handsome and sexy. He brings her into his dangerous world. Only he has the reason why he seduces her. He has a plan and she’s only a chess piece in his plan or is she? He’s not supposed to have feelings, but Cora is different. This story is dark, sexy dangerous, and has twists that I didn’t see coming. This story by Stasia Black and Lee Savino will keep you on the edge of your seat. Jack Calihan is phenomenal in his narration. His voices and personalities for each character were spot on! His ability to transition from one character to the other is flawless. #audiobookobsessionreview
I really enjoyed this story. I didn’t realize it was a cliff hanger. So now I will have to look for book 2. I had many emotions while listening to this. I was pleased then shocked then I actually hated and was confused by Marcus. I felt sorry for Cora during more than One scene. This is a darker romance so if certain scenes bother a reader don’t go with this one because it’s a lot more than vanilla.
This is a first time author for me. It drew me in and didn’t let go. This story was moving and the characters made me like and hate them. Again I was not happy with the ending as it stopped during a change. I did listen to this on audio and Jack Calihan did a great job. Very easy to listen to and the different voice were wonderful.
KU. DNF @ 28%. I just don’t care. This is so implausible and incredibly boring at the same time. While the spelling and grammar are technically correct, the whole feel of it is middle school level structure & thought.
h is a girl who spent her whole life sheltered by her mom. Like never met another person, no TV, only approved books, homeschooled, hidden in a basement when people were over, no birth certificate, no SSN, no ID of any kind level of sheltered. Yet, somehow she’s managed to escape to a big city, find a job as a nanny that includes housing. She’s roofied at a night club (how she got in with no ID, I have no idea) and is kidnapped. She escapes her kidnapper and somehow ends up in the office of the H. No money, still no ID, no clothes …
He then proceeds to “Pretty Woman” her life and she becomes a Super Model and walks the runway at a major fashion show 4 days later. Then the story sort of skips a month with a paragraph telling is how he’s showered her with clothes & diamonds anddddd I stopped reading here because I do. not. care.
Maybe if we had any insight into H’s POV it might make sense or at least offer some intrigue. But he basically stands around growling and smirking and throwing cash at her. There’s no chemistry between the two. And I cannot figure out what the point of this book is.