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Kings of Mafia #5

God of Vengeance

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From USA Today & Wall Street Journal bestselling author Michelle Heard comes a new STANDALONE, full-length MAFIA ROMANCE novel.

I was born into the Cosa Nostra, so I've always known an arranged marriage loomed in my future.

When the Capo dei Capi of the Cosa Nostra comes to Sicily to give his approval for his cousin, Stefano, to take me as his bride, I know my fate is all but sealed. Marrying Stefano is the last thing I want, but being a woman, I don't have a say in the matter.

Damiano Falco is merciless and rules the Cosa Nostra with an iron fist. Everyone fears him and won't dare go against him.
I'm still trying to accept that I'll have no choice but to marry Stefano when Damiano utters the last word anyone expects to hear.

"No."

He doesn't give his approval, nor does he offer any explanation.

But if I think his refusal will set me free, I have another thing coming. Instead, my bags are packed, and within hours, I find myself sitting on a private jet with the head of the Costa Nostra.
The ruthless man doesn't tell me anything, and I have no idea what my future holds.

To say I'm terrified is the understatement of the century.

445 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 24, 2024

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About the author

Michelle Heard

60 books9,472 followers
Michelle Heard is a USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon #3 Bestselling romance author.

She writes emotional heart-shattering stories with a whole lot of Mafia & Romance that will leave you smiling with satisfaction. Every book has an unexpected twist that will show the strength of the characters.

Before becoming an author, Michelle had a career in banking. She lives in South Africa with her son, Sheldon, who's also her right-hand man when it comes to all things publishing, and her daughter-in-law, Tayla, who's her best friend.

Reading Order on AMAZON


STANDALONE NOVELS:
***Mafia & Bratva Romance (in order)***

THE SAINTS SERIES:
Merciless Saints - Damien Vetrov
Cruel Saints - Lucian Cotroni
Ruthless Saints - Carson Koslov
Tears of Betrayal - Demitri Vetrov
Tears of Salvation - Alexei Koslov

THE SINNERS SERIES:
Taken By A Sinner - Nikolas Stathoulis
Owned By A Sinner - Liam Byrne
Stolen By A Sinner - Gabriel Demir
Chosen By A Sinner - Luca Cotroni
Captured By A Sinner - Viktor Vetrov


THE CORRUPTED ROYALS SERIES:
Destroy Me - Misha Petrov
Control Me - Nikolai Vetrov
Brutalize Me - Armani De Santis
Restrain Me - Maxim Levin
Possess Me - Alek Aslanhov


SERIES (In Order):

ENEMIES TO LOVERS SERIES:
***College & New Adult Romance***

Heartless - Carter & Della
Reckless - Logan & Mia
Careless - Jaxson & Leigh
Ruthless - Marcus & Willow
Shameless - Rhett & Evie

TRINITY ACADEMY SERIES:
***College Romance***

Falcon - Falcon & Layla
Mason - Mason & Kingsley
Lake - Lake & Lee
Julian - Julian & Jamie
The Epilogue

THE HEIRS:
***College & New Adult Romance***

Coldhearted Heir - Hunter & Jade
Arrogant Heir - Jase & Mila
Defiant Heir - Kao & Fallon
Loyal Heir - Forest & Aria
Callous Heir - Noah & Carla
Sinful Heir - Tristan & Hana
Tempted Heir - Christopher & Dash
Forbidden Heir - Ryker & Danny


SOUTHERN HEROES SERIES:
***Suspense Romance***

The Ocean Between Us – Aiden & Emma
The Girl In The Closet – Cole & Birdie
The Lies We Tell Ourselves – Alec & Reece
All The Wasted Time – Wyatt & Scarlett
We Were Lost – Zac & Chloe


OTHER STANDALONE NOVELS:

Not My Hero - Dark YA Romance

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5 stars
3,860 (49%)
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3 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 681 reviews
Profile Image for Jen ♥.
1,217 reviews482 followers
Read
August 27, 2024
The first 70% was atrocious, and the last 30% was marginally better. She's way too good for him, and he could fxck off for all I care. He's the worst MMC in this series! I'm still wondering if this is worth ranting about. 🥴


S-P-O-I-L-E-R‼️


I have so many issues with this book, but on top of my list is that scene at the 23% mark where Damiano (38) slammed Gabriella (23) on the floor, choked her, and pointed his gun at her forehead because he thought she was a threat. This had me fuming and literally shaking from anger.

He left bruises on her neck that were very obvious and didn't heal for days. And I waited until the end of the story to see when he would apologize for what he did. And guess fxcking what?! There was not even the slightest apology made, like, AT ALL!!! 😤

It's as if that incident wasn't a big deal when it was blatant violence against a woman, which, mind you, he had first-hand experience witnessing thanks to his POS father.

I do understand the violence in organized crime books. But it's not acceptable when the MMC is doing it against the FMC. Apparently he doesn't discriminate against who he hurts, as long as he perceives them as threats. But to see the FMC, who had been subjected to abuse for the entirety of her life, suffer another act of violence? Nope, that won't fly with me. 😡

This slamming on the floor infuriates me so badly, but it angered me even more when he did the gun-pointing sh*t TWICE! And with the same reasoning too, thinking she was a threat. 🤬 I just can't get past that. Once was bad enough, but twice? Yeah, he deserves jail time. 😤

Unfortunately, Gabriella was waaay better person than me. Because despite the cold and harsh treatments she received, she still accepted and loved him, flaws and all. 😮‍💨

I could go on and on and list all the things that made me see red in this book, but that would take quite some time, so I won't do that anymore.


Book info:
- Arranged? Forced? Marriage
- Age gap (15)
- Domestic abuse
- Violence, death, gore, torture
- Kidnapping
- Insta-love
- Panic attacks
- Asshole MMC
- V FMC 🙄, Not a hoe MMC (small mercies)
- No cheating, OPD, breakup
- HEA (22 yrs later)
Profile Image for Tea [semi-hiatus].
133 reviews61 followers
September 21, 2024
Minor spoiler warning!
(This is not a proper review, this is just me ranting)


I don’t think I can express the extreme hatred I feel for this shit. I’ve enjoyed Michelle’s previous series The Saints, Sinners & Corrupted Royals but this one have been pretty shit straight through to be honest. This shit though? This shit takes the cake by tenfold.

My biggest problem is ≈48% in. I’ve never been this disgusted, mad, sad and uncomfortable by a book scene before. I am truly speachless and Michelle really has outdone herself. I’ve read worse, but this is different. This is between the mc’s, the people who are supposed to be each others safe space at all times and who should want only the best for each other at all times. I’m supposed to be rooting for this couple. Severely hurting your partner physically on purpose is not romance, it’s disgusting and has no place in a romance book.

We have the fmc, who I mostly liked. Sassy, knew to stand up for herself no matter what. She got knocked down over and over but never gave up. She was raised by her abusive parents, taught that her only value and purpose in life was to be a ”good wife”(in other words, ”listen to your husband, do everything your husband says so you don’t get hurt”)

44% in, Gabriella has a nightmare where she dreams she’s about to be raped. She wakes up screaming and proceeds to have a panic attack. Enter the mmc. He calms her down blah blah then FORCES her to talk about her past even though she doesn’t want to. Then he decides THIS is the best time to have sex for the first time. With the way the fmc was raised, I don’t even think she knew she was allowed to say no or wait. She tried to push him off at first but he didn’t let her, then she ”gave in” When my body covers hers, Gabriella’s hands press against my shoulders. I grab her wrists and pin her arms down on either side of her head, and she has no choice but to spread her legs so she can accommodate my hips. (note: her not knowing she could say no is just what I think, it is not said in the book)

And this is not both mc’s having the hots for pain with their pleasure, because they don’t. This is about the mmc who keeps going even though he knows the fmc is in SEVERE pain and trying her best to hide it. The SECOND she was in PAIN he would have stopped if he gave a single flying fuck about her. He’s supposed to already be in love with her by this scene🙄I know I’m repeating myself a lot but I really am REPULSED. How did Michelle even think for one second we’d love an mmc who cares more about his pleasure than the fmc’s WELL BEING.

I should be gentler. I should ask if she’s ready. There’s a lot I should do, but I have zero self-restraint. My hips move, and I’m met with absolute resistance by her virgin pussy. I brace a forearm beside her head, and my free hand grips her hip tightly. I thrust again, managing to force myself a couple of inches into her wet heat. Christ, she’s too fucking tight. Gabriella’s back arches, and her muscles tighten, pain rippling over her beautiful face. I feel her breasts against my chest as I thrust deeper, and this time, she clenches her jaw to keep from making a sound. Not wanting to torture her, I brace her leg over my ass to open her wider. When I slam into her, she pulls her arms away from me to cover her mouth as a cry is torn from her. Fuck. Fuck.Fuck.Fuck. Being fully sheathed by her way-too-tight pussy feels fucking incredible. Letting go of her thigh, I bring my arm up and pull her hands away from her face. “Breathe,” I grind the word out. She gasps, and when tears spiral from her eyes, she tries to wipe them away, but I take hold of her wrists and pin them on either side of her head. ~ My hate for this man is unmatched. There is triggering content related to: Graphic and extreme violence Abuse Kidnapping Death of a loved one Trauma & PTSD Maybe this warning does include what happens in this scene, idk but I sure as hell would have appreciated a clearer warning. I’m lucky I don’t have any triggers, but I’d still have stayed away because fucking gross. When you see violence and abuse listed, you usually don’t think it’s between the mc’s, right? Or maybe that’s just me.

I hear her gasps and pain-filled whimpers, and I seal my mouth to hers because each one belongs to me. ~ Read the room babe, it’s not the time to get possessive🥰💩

When I pull out of her, the color drains from her face until she’s pale from pain. “You okay?” I ask. She nods as she sits up. My eyes land on the blood coating her pussy and inner thighs. Worried, I ask, “Should you bleed so much?” I glance down at myself and see my pelvis and cock are covered in her blood. “I’m sorry. I’ll clean everything quickly,” Gabriella says as she climbs off the bed. She only takes two steps before she sinks to the floor. ~ Are you telling me he supposedly ripped her ✨so wet✨ vagina? Oooor what? Idk how to interpret it.

Seeing all the blood, the pain on her face, and that she’s not even able to fucking walk, regret pours hot and fast into my chest. I was way too fucking rough with her. ~ I don’t care if he crawls on miles of burning coal on his bare hands and knees, let’s the fmc shoot his dick or let’s her torture him til the brink of death. There is NO. COMMING. BACK.

I nudge her legs open so I can see if the bleeding has stopped, ~ Does Michelle even know what virginity is? (Besides a very stupid concept)

The pain as he kept thrusting until he found his own pleasure in my body. Even though it hurt a lot, I’d do it a million times to see that hot look on his face as he orgasms. ~ Micheeeeeeelle. Girl. Be so for real.

“I didn’t want anyone to see your virgin blood. It’s for my eyes only,” he explains. ~ Let’s get possessive about it instead of BEGGING for forgiveness then!💩 I swear I don’t think he even said sorry and he did nooooot act like it was a big deal.

✨Honorable mentions:✨

Usually, the female species cower before me, unwilling to meet my gaze. ~ I hate the male species.

I need an heir, and I’m not getting any younger. But who? Fuck, it doesn’t really matter. As long as the woman is able to bear children, I’m good. ~ Lovely🙄

“I tripped and accidentally touched Mr. Falco’s gun. He grabbed my neck and slammed me against the floor.” ~ AND HE DID NOT EVEN SAY SORRY

Should I marry her? She seems to be getting along with my mother and Aunt Greta. She’s beautiful. At least fucking her won’t be a chore. ~ Gentleman alert🚨

“You belong to me, Gabriella. No man is to touch you.”
“Okay,”“Will you … ahh…”
“Out with it.”
“Will you have affairs?”
“You think I have time to fuck around?”
“No. I didn’t mean it that way.”
“No, there won’t be affairs, because I’m way too busy and you’ll satisfy all my needs.”
~ He really has a way with words, doesn’t he?🥰

My tongue strokes hers, and her inexperience allows me to do whatever I want. ~ Gagging

“Never wear leggings outside of the bedroom,” I order.
She nods quickly.
“No cleavage in public.”
A frown starts to form on her forehead. “Do you want me to dress more conservatively?” “No. I love the way you dress. Just don’t show what’s mine to other men, or there will be hell to pay.”
~ ABSOLUTELY NOT.

“I’m picking up weight. It should fit better soon.” My eyes drift over her body, and I like the sound of her being curvier. Not that there’s anything wrong with her body, I just won’t have to be so fucking careful not to hurt her. ~ Shouldn’t you always be careful not to hurt her??? Weirdo🤺

I have 100 other things to say about this book but I don’t really feel the need to explain what I enjoyed or didn’t enjoy. As I’ve already said, I don’t think there’s any coming back from hurting the love of your life(or anyone else) that way.
Profile Image for Darlene I read WAY to many books.
3,469 reviews2,027 followers
August 27, 2024
I enjoyed the series, and this is the last of the book, and I gotta say I was very disappointed in Damiano.. I felt like he was way too harsh and didn't truly care for Gabrielle. Heck, he was going to let her get married to one of his friends.. (the H in the last book) before he took her from his cousin.

He said he didn't like violence against women because of what happened to his mother, but he let a father and his cousin do what they did to Gabrielle when he first arrived?!? He also said he would hurt a woman if she was a threat to the family, which he did manhandled Gabrielle twice on accident because she tripped and touched his gun.. and he slammed her into the wall.

It was a very, very rough start for them.. I also felt like he was away so much that they truly didn't have a connection. Gab girl just wanted to live her life and not deal with this drama. I wish it was different for her. I love the moments between her and the older woman. Something little different.

There was mafia drama and some deaths.. was surprised about one death.


Saftey-H mentioned past relationships, but that was it.

No ow drama/no om (unless you cound the cousin), no cheating, slight secondary character, Drama, sexy times, virgin gal and no manwhore

Recommend-maybe
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶

38H/23h
Age gap
Push away from H
Graphic and extreme violence
Abuse
Kidnapping
Death of a loved one
Praise
Tiny cockwarming
Trauma & PTSD
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
Profile Image for Carla Bulian.
1,476 reviews433 followers
September 19, 2024
This story is good but not so good…
The mmc seems a robot, his actions mechanic , it’s really strange and I don’t like the fmc, she is pathetic.
Unfortunately .
Profile Image for Dul.
297 reviews199 followers
August 29, 2024
I enjoyed it, but I feel there could have been better development of emotions and feelings. The bruises left me a bit unsettled because it's not something I usually read in this type of book. I didn't see anywhere that he apologized for it.

The truth is that I wasn't going to continue reading this series, but they won me over when I saw "arranged marriage." He rejects his cousin's marriage to her and decides to take her away to marry her to Dario, but everything gets complicated when Dario tells him that he's in a serious relationship with someone else, and now he doesn't know what to do with her.

Either way, as long as they keep publishing books, I'll keep reading them because they help me get out of a reading block.

I feel there were things that shouldn't have been included, but everyone decides what to write in their book.
Profile Image for yaryna🌸.
69 reviews24 followers
September 2, 2024
Дякуючи своїй роботі я осилила її за пару годин☺️
Трохи важко йшла з самого початку, вже думаю собі як можна бути таким тупим😂😂 до рішення одружитись можна було дійти скорше🤷🏿‍♀️
Мені дуже сильно сподобалась мати головного героя😍 прекрасна жінка
Ґабріелла❤️‍🔥 вона дуже дуже сильна, прям ідеально підходить Даміану
Даміан мене зацікавив вже давно, ну він дуже цікавий😏
Люблю книги Мішель за те, що вони дуже легко йдуть
Всі 5 книг йшли мені за пару годин☺️
Під них можна легко відпочити
Хоча тут тема мафії як не як🤷🏿‍♀️
В загальному не погано але мене не вразило
Якщо говорити про оцінку то тут 3.5 ⭐️
Таки самими улюбленими залишаються Франко і Селеста (здається так їх звати)
Profile Image for AvidReader.
1,321 reviews285 followers
September 1, 2024
4.75 🌟!

For some reason I only realised this book is the last one in the series, in the epilogue. And that made me a little bit emotional but the heartwarming epilogue was what I needed.
(Can’t wait to read the kids books!)

Cold, broody and emotionless Damiano only loves select people and hates anything and everything. So it was quite hilarious to watch him falling in love when he was the most clueless about it.
Saying Gabriella had everything bad was understatement of the century but despite a horrible family, abuse, and cruel fiance she stood tall like a queen. I loved how strong and stubborn she was. They were the perfect match for each other.

This book had it all- romance, action, lovely protagonists, supportive second characters, heartbreaking and tender, emotional scenes. It also has that very easy to read writing style.

I can’t wait to see what Michelle Heard brings next.

__Mafia romance.
—Age gap, found family.
—Marriage of convenience.
—Standalone, KU, TW and safe.
—recommended 🤍🤍

I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for natalie?.
270 reviews12 followers
August 26, 2024
Take a shot every time the word “Dio” pops up.

I think Michelle’s lost the plot? She’s certainly run out of ideas. Has been for a while, but this took the cake.
Profile Image for Yanina.
20 reviews4 followers
September 6, 2024
Finish it! 4⭐️

It’s good, but there are too much love to mother, sometimes even more that to spouse… just -1 ⭐️ for it.
Profile Image for Colleen.
179 reviews2 followers
August 26, 2024
This was such a let down. The last book in the series and the worst in my opinion.
Damiano was just a massive asshole, Gabriella was strong, smart and likeable and she deserved so much better than Damiano.
This was so boring too until all the action kicked in around the last 1/3 of the book.

I’m glad the author noted at the end there will be no spinoffs because in the 22 years epilogue in the future between the 5 heads of the cosa nostra they seemed to have a lot of kids and I can’t be arsed remembering who’s parent are who etc so I can just happily forget this series now

Dual pov
Age gap 23/38
Safe no OWD/OMD
Hea
Epilogue 22 years ahead
Profile Image for Sarah♡books  .
327 reviews76 followers
September 5, 2024
3/5 🌟

♡ Mafia
♡ Arranged marriage
♡ Love at first sight
♡ Age gap ( 38 l 23 )
♡ Virgin heroine
🚩 No cheating or sharing, no OW

OM - she was supposed to marry his cousin who is a piece of sh*t...

𝑮𝒂𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒂 - 𝑯𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒆 🩷

I liked her. She wasn't a 'special' heroine & I felt like she was just like every other girl who marries into the Mafia but I enjoyed reading about it 🫶


𝑫𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒐 - 𝑯𝒆𝒓𝒐 💙

So let me say, I didn't understand why everybody says he is to harsh or to cold... He is such a sweetie and I liked him 🙌

My problem with him was that he fell in love at first sight and there was literally no tension between them..

( alsooooo why did he take her virginity so apruptly ??? There was no foreplay 😵‍💫 I believe it hurt like hell... )

All in all it was an average book that you can easily read in one sitting and enjoy 🤍🤞
Profile Image for A.
305 reviews84 followers
August 27, 2024
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶
HEA: 🌟🌟🌟/3
❗️Safety and Small Spoilers Below❗️

📌 Triggers: Violence (on-page) Kidnapping (on-page) Murder (on-page) Death of a loved one (on-page) Torture (on-page) Abuse (on-page)

📌 MMC comes off cold in the beginning and makes some questionable choices. It does take him a bit to warm up and accept FMC.

📌 HEA: Epilouge 22 years later

📌 No Cheating/Sharing

📌 No OMD: FMC is a virgin.

📌 No OWD: MMC isn't a manwhore

📌 No Third-act Breakup

📌 Physical Separation due to Kidnapping
Profile Image for Oksana OM.
139 reviews4 followers
September 15, 2024
3,5 потрапило у настрій і тому непогано. Якщо хочете почитати про мафію та досить владного чоловіка, вам сюди. Стандартно про цнотливу дівчину, яку за домовленістю хотіли відати заміж. Дуже сподобалось як він любить своїх жінок - маму, тітку і дружину.
August 28, 2024
MICHELLE. GURL. Lemme start by saying I should probably talk to my therapist sometime soon bc I when Damiano went all gun-to-her-head-and-questions-later I wasn’t bothered. 😂 NOW I will say, can I get some grovel afterward dang?!?! But, still no complaints. I looooove how he was written I’m not going to lie. I love his relationship with his mamma, and the fact that he even saved Gabriella in the first place?!?! SWOON. My ABSOLUTE favorite thing was how HE admitted to falling first and hard and even said ily first with no pressure on her saying it back. I could go on & on but I freaking loved them together. Also, Gabriella was beautifully written like 10 out of mother freaking 10. The sheer strength of the Queen?!?! I hate how fast I read this book TBH.

PS - Michelle please give me another series I’m bored 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rina | booksofthemuggleborn.
653 reviews45 followers
August 24, 2024
My Rating: 4.5 stars!

** ARC was generously provided in exchange for my honest review. **

My my my… grumpy has never looked so effing irresistible as it does in the form of one Damiano Falco. 🤤😍

Sigh. Where did the time go that we’ve now reached the fifth and final book in the Kings of Mafia series?! It’s definitely a bittersweet feeling, and with how certain things played out, no cap, I am left with somewhat of a bitter aftertaste.

Heard has always effortlessly evoked strong emotions out of me through her characters and their stories, but this one hits a little differently. This book will crush the souls of its gentle readers to dust. It’s not for the faint of heart. As someone who was immediately drawn to Damiano and Gabriella and invested in seeing how their relationship would develop, I hadn’t prepared for the onslaught of emotions I would also experience from the other parts of this book. The secondary characters were just as outstanding as the MCs. I’m talking worthy personalities with minor narratives who added such life and an overall heftiness to the story.

I tell ya what, Heard is not afraid of getting brutal with her storytelling. It’s emotionally souped-up. Without sharing spoilers, all I can say is keep your guard up.

This book contains adult themes and sensitive subject matters that some readers may find disturbing and/or triggering. It includes domestic and child abuse, graphic violence, blood and gore, bullying, torture, death— some, if not all resulting in PTSD. It’s intended for readers 18+ only.

Although I read this book easily in one sitting, the storytelling felt relatively steady-paced. Nothing felt abrupt, and with the intricate world-building and a mostly uneasy atmosphere throughout, it added a suspenseful buzz to my reading experience.

Getting to see the MCs navigate through their thoughts and emotions through their own perspectives is something I always look forward to seeing, and the dual POVs in this book didn’t disappoint. The varying character dynamics was also another element I enjoyed seeing. Besides the brotherhood amongst the men of the Cosa Nostra, there are contrasting familial dynamics present. But it’s the positive support system provided by certain key characters that not only added the lightheartedness in an otherwise dark book, but left a lasting impact that’d be tough to forget.

I wish things had turned out differently… at least for one particular character. As much as I loved seeing Damiano and Gabriella (and the previous couples) get their happily ever after, I wouldn’t necessarily say this book had an absolute HEA. I may be in the minority here, and I can understand that nothing is ever certain—which is one of the reasons why I find Heard’s writing relatable and realistic, but this book stings. Lol. But in saying that, it’s also a true testament of how easily I connect with her stories, and why she’s an auto-read-author of mine.

All in all, it’s an amazing final addition to an exceptionally addictive mafia romance series. I’m sad to see it come to an end but I love that it’s a series I can easily go back and reread whenever the mood strikes. The hype around Damiano that only grew with each book in the series is valid. He’s a grumpy alpha-hole personified, but my gosh, the man can win over hearts. Whilst Gabriella was the epitome of grace and willpower. I was perpetually in awe of her.

A dark mafia romance with tons of thrills and spills. It was spicy. It was sweet. It was heart-rendering. Wholly unputdownable.

🚨 Full review on my blog: https://booksofthemuggleborn.wordpres...
Profile Image for Lover of Romance.
3,364 reviews1,026 followers
September 1, 2024
My Review:

God Of Vengeance I was a bit nervous to read on and while I really liked it, I was expecting more for Damiano's series who has been my favorite character of the series. I think so far for the series, Dario's book was by far my favorite. I really adored the way that this book started though. I loved how the hero was willing to take control of a toxic situation and protect the heroine. The hero is a bit of a darker mafia hero, probably one of the darker heroes that I have read from this author and I found that she really made him a fabulous anti/morally grey hero you actually want to get behind. Then we have the heroine, and I nervous for her character for a reason and I can see why I was nervous. I didn't like her in the beginning. She really makes some "too stupid to live" type of decisions, its honestly a miracle she survives because of how stupid she acts at times. I get that she has been abused, but she kinda brings it on herself at times with her attitude. Not that anyone deserves to be abused, but she literally encouraged the abuse at times, like she was so miserable, she wanted to bring on a violent reaction in those around her. She just seemed so irresponsible at times. And while I eventually learned to like her character in the end, it took some time for her to become redeemed for me. I did find the actual romance to be truly beautifully written. From the moment Damiano decided to marry her, their relationship just clicked for me and they really grow together in what truly matters. I loved how strong they end up in the end. There was so many endearing moments between them. I loved how Damiano assisted Gabriella through her PTSD, their hug moments were my favorites and I adored how much they are willing to sacrifice for each other but I was super sad about the ending in some ways. It was a bit bittersweet. While I don't think its the strongest book of the series, it definitely had me feeling deeply in their alone moments.

My Favorite Scene:
“I got my first hug two weeks ago. From Mrs. Accardi. It was really nice.” First hug? My blood turns to ice in my veins. “Your parents never showed you any form of affection?” “No.” She faces the target and lifts her arms to fire a shot. “Put down the gun,” I order. Letting out a sigh, she places the weapon on a counter near the wall, then she mutters, “I really don’t want to talk about my parents.” “Come here.” Her eyes lift to my face, and she moves closer to me. Lifting my hand, I wrap my fingers around the back of her neck before pulling her against my chest. I lean down and lock my other arm around her, holding her tight to me. I feel a tremor shudder through her body, and lifting her from the floor, I mutter, “Wrap your legs around me.” Gabriella does as I say, her arms circling my neck. I walk to a seating area, and as I sit down, I order, “Straddle me.” Once again, she does as I say, and when I’m comfortable, I hold her even tighter while pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “You’re just going to hug me?” she whispers, her tone tight with emotion. “Yes.” I begin to brush my hand up and down her back, then say, “Relax, principessa. Lean into me.”
Profile Image for Luna  ♡.
365 reviews150 followers
August 29, 2024
»You were mine the moment you refused to break eye contact with me.«

★ ★ ★ ★

❥ 𝑮𝒂𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒂
Loved her with all my heart. She is strong, fierce and mostly stands her ground against Damiano.

❥ 𝑫𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒐
He is a big, broody asshole with a weak spot for Gabriella. Overall I liked him but sometimes he acted like an uncontrolled animal.

✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
A worthy end to a good mafia series. Michelle Heard is one of my favourite authors and I adore her books. To be honest her previous mafia series were a bit better but this one was entertaining too.
The writing style is amazing, easy to understand and to the point. There are no unnecessary long descriptions and the emotions speak through the pages.
Gabriella and Damiano are a tough couple. Both wear their amor and have trouble showing their weak sides. I liked their dynamic although Damiano really is an asshole.
I had my problems with some smut scenes because they were not exactly consensual and Damiano acts like a fucking animal in these! Not a fan.
Still this book was enjoyable, funny and thrilling. I had fun reading it and it kept me glued to my kindle the whole afternoon.

𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤?
Yes, especially if you read the previous books in this series.

𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓
plot: 4/5
spice: 3/5
humor: 4/5
couple/tension: 5/5
world building: 5/5
happy end?: yes

𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
possessive and protective hero, mafia, arranged marriage, traumatic past, age gap, forced proximity, mafia boss x mafia princess, instant attraction, touch her and die

𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲
ages: Gabriella (23) and Damiano (38)
cheating: no
sharing: no
kinks: dominance, blood

𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
#1 Tempted by the Devil ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#2 Craving Danger ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#3 Hunted by a Shadow ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#4 Drawn to Darkness ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#5 God of Vengeance ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Profile Image for Kim Cassandra .
45 reviews3 followers
August 23, 2024
A Queen Fit For A King

Going into the Kings of Mafia series back in October of 2023, I always knew Damiano would be my favourite. As the Capo Dei Capi out of the five MMCs, he embodies everything I love in a character: dark, handsome, broody, and quiet—a man of mystery, yet undeniably powerful. However, I also knew that his story would bring out his soft side (something that Michelle Heard EXCELS in) and this book DEFINITELY delivered on that promise.

In God of Vengeance, we find him falling for Gabriella Di Bella, a beautiful young lady from Italy who is on the verge of being forced to marry Damiano’s cousin Stefano. Gabriella is a force of nature. Unwilling to accept a life of servitude under Stefano, she’s a character whose defiance has been forged through the abuse she suffered at the hands of her parents. The fire within her refuses to be extinguished, making her an unstoppable force. And that’s exactly what makes Damiano falls so hard for her. So instead of giving his blessing for the union, he does something unexpected…he takes her instead.

“They want a prim and proper little princess, but I’ll give them a defiant queen.”

I loved seeing her stand up to Damiano, showing her strength and resilience, but also recognizing when to yield in their dynamic. What she truly wants is to be loved, something that she was denied her whole life and that’s what we see in their journey. Their relationship is not one of loud declarations or flashy displays. Instead, it’s in the quiet moments, the moments in bed while they hold each other, the shared sense of safety, and the purest form of love where Gabriella and Damiano’s bond truly shines. They’re the epitome of a true power couple.

“In the darkness, I become a safe space for him and it makes a new emotion fill my chest”

The action is, as expected, very exciting and satisfying till the end, but it is the family dynamics in this book that really stand out. Damiano’s love for his mother and Gabriella’s kindness towards her was heartwarming, and the moment that Gabriella received her first hug from Aunt Greta brought tears to my eyes. The bond that Gabriella and Damiano forged through love and mutual respect is the true highlight and made me feel warm fuzzies. The spice you ask? SPICY (ahem, my heart wasn’t the only thing that was warm 🐓😉).

Now that we have finally arrived at the final Kings of Mafia series, it’s really bittersweet saying goodbye to these wonderful group of mafia men who would do anything for their women. Michelle Heard has a talent for writing super charming MMCs while allowing her FMCs to be strong, finding their agency while being soft and feminine. I really hope that Michelle continues writing in the KoM world (can we please get a second gen series, PLEASE!?!??!) I just know whatever she writes next will have us swooning, crying and kicking our feet happily at 2 am.
Profile Image for ApoorvaReads.
550 reviews390 followers
August 29, 2024
besides the fact of him forcing her to talk about her trauma after having a panic attack this book was quite good which I hadn’t expected!🙏🏻
Profile Image for Marcela.
172 reviews206 followers
September 9, 2024
this was so disappointing, the plot was so generic when i was expecting something great, i mean it’s the last book the author could’ve done it better
Profile Image for FANCHON.
672 reviews18 followers
August 28, 2024
Take away that one scene- and it was a win.

This starts out with Gabriella being arranged in marriage to an awful vile man. She has never know love- her family hates her and abuses her. Her father actually tried to kill her by throwing her off a balcony and her brother broke her jaw by punching her. Her mother not only beats and berates her, but locks her up and refuses to feed her. So they’re happy to be rid of her, especially if they can get any gain from selling her off.

The head of the mafia family, the Capo dei Capi, is also the cousin of her betrothed and has to “approve” of their marriage. When he arrives in Sicily and sees Gabriella being mistreated by her family, beaten with a belt by her betrothed after nearly being SA’d, he not only says “NO” to the marriage but ultimately takes her with him. For all the years of abuse, she has a fire in her. She’s one of the few people that maintains eye contact with Damiano, and she intrigues him from first glance.

Things I loved:

Gabriella is a mix of fierce and naive, but written in a way that didn’t annoy me. TBH I loathe virgins. I’m tired of clueless girls who don’t know anything. But she was fierce and sweet enough it didn’t bother me. She took a beating and didn’t shed a tear for crying out loud. I **floved** that their first sex scene was not some overdone “magical” multiple O experience. It hurt like hell, she bled like a stuck pig, she didn’t get off from the act itself. Thank you for small mercies. I can’t with the perfect “first time” scenes.

I loved that he was older, obviously had experience, but was not a manwhore. He was a grumpy abrasive person that didn’t like people in general, and didn’t do touch. He’s slept with 6 women (the six he could tolerate lol), never had a BJ or a hand on his c0ck. Those were her firsts. I loved that for her.

I love how he loves his momma. I loved the relationship his momma had with Greta and also Gabriella. She got her first hug and I had an actual tear.

The one horrible awful thing that almost ruined it all:

There’s a scene that frankly should have been cut. It added nothing of value. We already knew he was a morally gray or darker not warm and fuzzy guy, but this was too far. It makes Damiano irredeemable imo. I had to remove it from my mind tbh just so I could continue. There was no grovel. There was little “wtf I screwed up” and not nearly enough backlash. His mom expressed a moment of disappointment and said he should apologize and that’s it 😳. She should have beat his ass and threatened his life.

It’s fresh after he has brought her home, so things are tense. He has no plans to keep her and she has no clue what is going on. She is coming down the stairs behind him and her heel breaks so she falls. He’s oblivious because he’s still ignoring her. As she is flailing she reaches out and grasps where his Glock is tucked into his pants. His instinctive reaction is to spin around, grab this 5 foot waif by the THROAT and slam her violently to the marble floor and hold a gun to her head while threatening her. As she tries to breathe and explains what happened, he never apologizes or even helps her up, just walks away and leaves her lying there battered and bruised. She has immediate violent dark marks on her neck. When she shows up to dinner with them and Aunt Greta asks about it she doesn’t cower and tells everyone honestly what he did, which sends his mother into a panic attack. Because his father was a violent POS that beat her so much she is now blind. Does he feel bad? No. He’s mad that she upset his mother 🙄 He almost kills her as a response until he notices the same “blank look” in her eyes that his mom got after a beating from PTSD 🙄

Again- this should have been omitted. Or he could have shoved her against the wall and given the angry reaction effect. We would still all see “oh yes, he’s a dark and scary guy whose instinct is to be aggressive.” Why so violently attacking her? Really? The abused girl deserved better and the man who spends his life protecting his formerly abused mother should have felt some semblance of remorse. Some thought about being just like his father. But no. Nada. Zilch. Nothing.

So remove that completely awful book- ruining scene… the rest was fine. Definitely dark and violent. I liked that she was fierce but not TSTL. He was otherwise not horrible. I liked the side characters. Soooo. A win for the most part 🤷🏼‍♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Cheesy (Rhysand's wife) .
145 reviews2 followers
August 30, 2024
3,0 🌟

Le tenía mucha fe a este último libro y, sí bien me gustó, también me decepcionó 😪.

Esperaba que este libro tuviera un gran plot después de saber el nombre del libro, Dios de la venganza, hola? No hubo una venganza como tal. Después esta el tema de Gabriella. Se supone que Damiano (capi dei capi) debía dar su consentimiento/bendición para que pudiera casarse con un tipo (Stefano), pero, oh, sorpresa, no lo hizo. Dijo que no.

💥SPOILER:

En mi mente, creí que habría un gran plot y me sorprendería la razón por la que Damiano decide llevarse a Gabriella con él a NY. Pero no. Solo lo hizo porque pensó que sería una buena mujer para Darío (el protagonista del libro anterior), uno de los otros 4 jefes y que son mejores amigos casi hermanos. Ahora, cuando el plan no le sale como planeo (Dario comienza a salir con una chica, que, btw, es la protagonista del libro anteriores) se piensa para decidir que hacer con ella, al ser una princesa de la mafia no puede dejarla ir así como así y tampoco puede regresarla a Sicilia con su familia porque su familia es una mierda (y ella no quiere volver).

Entonces se le ocurre la maravillosa idea de un matrimonio entre él y Gabriella. No está mal, pero chico, ibas a dársela a tu amigo, idk. Él ya había mostrado atracción por ella y ella por él (raro, si me lo preguntas). Hasta ahí normal. Pero luego viene la escena donde ella tiene una pesadilla y tiene un ataque de pánico. Se esconde en su closeth y Damiano la encuentra ahí. Él le ayuda y la consuela. Eso estaba bien, pero luego él le dice que le cuente que le hizo su familia para sufrir esa clase de trauma y ella no quiere hablar porque no quiere parecer débil frente a él. Well, hablan un poco más y cuando él la ve, se exita al notar su pijama. Se besan y acaban en la cama. ELLA ES VIRGEN. Él lo sabe y lo repite en su cabeza diciendose que no puede ser brusco y que debería preguntarle si esta lista. SI, AMIGOS TEN CONSIENCIA. Anyway ella estaba de acuerdo con tener sexo, pero idk no fue de mi agrado, (tampoco fue una mierda pero aja you know) la autora ha escrito primeras veces más lindas que esta.

💥FUERA DE SPOILER:

Sin embargo, tuvo mejor desarrollo que el libro anterior aunque aún así le falta mucho más. Espero que la autora consiga mejorar en ese aspecto porque sus historias si me atraen y me gustaría seguir leyendo sus libros.

El epílogo fue algo corto, pero me mostró muy bien a quienes podrían ser de la segunda generación, que, por favor, espero sea MUCHO mejor que esta 💖. De ser así, me emocionaria mucho leerla.

Lo recomiendo? Quizá, pero si no te interesa la historia de estos personajes (yo no leí el de Renzo 😎), solo lee el epílogo, que, repito, no es la gran cosa, pero te muestra bien quien se interesara por quien en la segunda generación (si es que la hay).

Mi ranking:
-Angelo
-Franco
-Dario
-Damiano
-Renzo
Profile Image for Youmna Magdy.
36 reviews2 followers
August 27, 2024
So finished it in one day was a good book i like it TBH I EXPECTED MORE FROM DEMIAN STORY. But I wasn’t bad you know
I missed the funny scene like the other books
Still. Craving danger is my favorite book of the series

Please gabriela no one is that strong and i was on the edge of throwing my kindle if i heard “she lift her chin up “
Girl i kept imagining her walking with her her chin so up she can’t even see lol 😂

I couldn’t get over the last part of the book it hurt me 🥹
Profile Image for Maria.
2,489 reviews90 followers
September 4, 2024
Best one of the series!!! I knew Damiano's story would be intense and crazy. While there wasn't much of a plot because it focused more on Damiano and Gabriella, it still had so much action and craziness. Gabriella is perfect for Damiano in every way. A queen needs to be strong for her king. Man, is Gabriella strong. She endured horrible things at the hands of her parents, but she never broke. She was tortured to try and get Damiano to break and she never broke. She is the right partner for the head of the Costa Nostra! I love how soft they are with each other. How they trust and support one another. I love the 22 years later epilogue. It's nice seeing that everyone was happy and safe. Time for the next generation.
Profile Image for *CJ*.
4,632 reviews554 followers
August 26, 2024
“God of Vengeance” is the story of Gabrielle and Damiano.

A mafia sold into marriage romance, this one has a scarred heroine and a cynical protective hero. I didn’t mind their romance but there was so much abuse and violence on page, along with deaths, it took me out of the story. The only redeeming factor was the hero fell first and harder, but that one act of slamming (iykyk) really took me out (also the soaking of sheet).

Safeish
2.5/5
Profile Image for J u l i a n n a.
74 reviews3 followers
August 27, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 disfrute este libro, me devoré este libro …
10/10 la parte del factor adictivo
9/10 el romance . Le baje un punto porque al principio cómo meh no me convencía del todo pero después fue maravilloso.
10/10los personajes odie a personajes, amé a otros personajes…
8.5/10 la historia en sí fue buena y la disfruté y amé lloré (bueno tampoco así pero se entiende) y sentí lo que tenía que sentir en cada momento del libro… pero hubo cosas que en lo personal no me gustaron tanto. Algo muy personal…
10/10 el spicy uffff si si si fue maravilloso.
Profile Image for Vlada.
131 reviews7 followers
August 28, 2024
Хороше завершення серії 💖
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