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War of Sins #0
The Prodigal Son
Note: This is a prequel.
He died many times...too bad he was still alive.
In the beginning, Rafaelo and Michele were friends. Brothers.
In the beginning they were both good.
Until the unthinkable happened that changed the course of their lives forever.
Every villain has an origin story. But not everyone becomes a villain.
Michele chose darkness, and that was his sin. Rafaelo could never chose, and that was his.
Is there such a thing as right and wrong when everyone pays the price?
Let the heartache begin!
He died many times...too bad he was still alive.
In the beginning, Rafaelo and Michele were friends. Brothers.
In the beginning they were both good.
Until the unthinkable happened that changed the course of their lives forever.
Every villain has an origin story. But not everyone becomes a villain.
Michele chose darkness, and that was his sin. Rafaelo could never chose, and that was his.
Is there such a thing as right and wrong when everyone pays the price?
Let the heartache begin!
620 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 22, 2023
110 people are currently reading
3498 people want to read
About the author
Veronica Lancet
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
July 20, 2023
The Prodigal Son (War of Sins Series) - A Haunting Tale of Betrayal.
READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING, AS ALWAYS.
In "The Prodigal Son," the third installment of the gripping War of Sins Series, Veronica masterfully delves into the intriguing backstory of two formerly inseparable brothers turned bitter enemies. Rafaelo and Michele, once bound by an unbreakable brotherly bond, find themselves on opposite sides of a moral divide that has consequences far beyond their own lives.
The novel begins by painting a vivid picture of their friendship's inception, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the innocence they once shared. As readers, we witness how they were once considered good men, seemingly immune to the wickedness that lurked in the world around them. However, as fate would have it, an unthinkable event unfolds, thrusting them onto distinct paths that will forever alter their destinies.
Every villain has a tale to tell, and "The Prodigal Son" does not disappoint in unraveling the origins of Michele and Rafaelo's descent into darkness. Michele, haunted by the tragedy that befalls them, becomes consumed by his thirst for vengeance and power. His gradual metamorphosis from a virtuous soul into a calculating villain is both chilling and captivating. The way my heart broke for him and what he went through I wasn't expecting at all, he can just burn the whole world and I'll forgive him, just do not mistreat your ''pet'' that much, please.
Conversely, Rafaelo's journey is one of inner turmoil and indecision. His inability to choose between darkness and light proves to be his greatest sin, for inaction has its consequences as well. The author masterfully portrays his internal struggle, making him a compelling and relatable character for readers to follow. AND I WAS RIGHT ABOUT NOELLE.
The theme of moral ambiguity resonates strongly throughout the narrative. As the characters make their choices, readers are left pondering the nature of right and wrong when the price for their decisions is paid by many. This moral complexity adds layers of depth to the story, encouraging readers to introspect on the choices they make in their own lives.
As "The Prodigal Son" unfolds, the heartache promised in the blurb becomes palpable. The emotional intensity of the book is further amplified by the strong bonds of friendship turned enmity, keeping readers emotionally invested until the final page.
However, it is worth noting that "The Prodigal Son" is not a standalone novel. To fully appreciate the richness of the characters and the complexity of their journeys, it is essential to read the preceding books in the War of Sins Series. While this may be a drawback for new readers, fans of the series will undoubtedly relish the opportunity to delve deeper into the origins of these captivating characters.
In conclusion, "The Prodigal Son" is a haunting and thought-provoking addition to the War of Sins Series. Veronica continues to display their mastery of storytelling, skillfully weaving together themes of friendship, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. If you've followed the series from the beginning, this book is an absolute must-read. For those new to the series, now is the perfect time to embark on this mesmerizing journey into the hearts of villains and heroes alike. Prepare to be enthralled and moved, for this is a tale that will linger with you long after the final page.
READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING, AS ALWAYS.
In "The Prodigal Son," the third installment of the gripping War of Sins Series, Veronica masterfully delves into the intriguing backstory of two formerly inseparable brothers turned bitter enemies. Rafaelo and Michele, once bound by an unbreakable brotherly bond, find themselves on opposite sides of a moral divide that has consequences far beyond their own lives.
The novel begins by painting a vivid picture of their friendship's inception, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the innocence they once shared. As readers, we witness how they were once considered good men, seemingly immune to the wickedness that lurked in the world around them. However, as fate would have it, an unthinkable event unfolds, thrusting them onto distinct paths that will forever alter their destinies.
Every villain has a tale to tell, and "The Prodigal Son" does not disappoint in unraveling the origins of Michele and Rafaelo's descent into darkness. Michele, haunted by the tragedy that befalls them, becomes consumed by his thirst for vengeance and power. His gradual metamorphosis from a virtuous soul into a calculating villain is both chilling and captivating. The way my heart broke for him and what he went through I wasn't expecting at all, he can just burn the whole world and I'll forgive him, just do not mistreat your ''pet'' that much, please.
Conversely, Rafaelo's journey is one of inner turmoil and indecision. His inability to choose between darkness and light proves to be his greatest sin, for inaction has its consequences as well. The author masterfully portrays his internal struggle, making him a compelling and relatable character for readers to follow. AND I WAS RIGHT ABOUT NOELLE.
The theme of moral ambiguity resonates strongly throughout the narrative. As the characters make their choices, readers are left pondering the nature of right and wrong when the price for their decisions is paid by many. This moral complexity adds layers of depth to the story, encouraging readers to introspect on the choices they make in their own lives.
As "The Prodigal Son" unfolds, the heartache promised in the blurb becomes palpable. The emotional intensity of the book is further amplified by the strong bonds of friendship turned enmity, keeping readers emotionally invested until the final page.
However, it is worth noting that "The Prodigal Son" is not a standalone novel. To fully appreciate the richness of the characters and the complexity of their journeys, it is essential to read the preceding books in the War of Sins Series. While this may be a drawback for new readers, fans of the series will undoubtedly relish the opportunity to delve deeper into the origins of these captivating characters.
In conclusion, "The Prodigal Son" is a haunting and thought-provoking addition to the War of Sins Series. Veronica continues to display their mastery of storytelling, skillfully weaving together themes of friendship, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. If you've followed the series from the beginning, this book is an absolute must-read. For those new to the series, now is the perfect time to embark on this mesmerizing journey into the hearts of villains and heroes alike. Prepare to be enthralled and moved, for this is a tale that will linger with you long after the final page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2023
Veronica Lancet is in a league of her own with how she can get under a readers skin and heart.
This series is dark, horrifically emotional and complex, and oh so good.
I think I just lost a part of my heart reading this book. And I’ll never find it again.
🖤Review 🖤
This is not standalone. Books 1 and 2 must be read prior. This book goes back in time many years, to the beginning where the brothers lives started.
We see who they were and get so many answers on why Michele is who he is now and why Rafaelo is who he is in present time.
This book is heavy. It’s a-lot to take in. At many points of reading, I had to read one chapter at a time and put the book down. And breathe. This is NOT a romance.
It’s full of childhood abuse (mentally, and physically), neglect, rape, and so much more. The impact this book will leave you is ALOT.
Veronica Lancet is a story teller and her words are full of pure talent… she made us readers cry and weep for a man we all were disgusted and hateful towards in book 1 and 2.
This is the history of Michele and Rafaelo. Two brothers. Now enemies.
Sins are unveiled.
Horrors are revealed.
“One step at a time. The crack is enough for now. Already there's something sinister enveloping me in noxious waves, poisoning my mind and my soul. Or is it? For some reason, I think I've been poisoned all along. I just disguised it well.”
Are sadists born? Or are they raised to become one?
This is an incredible story. About a war. About sinners. About the deep dark underbelly of this dark dark world and its unhinged players…..
This series is dark, horrifically emotional and complex, and oh so good.
I think I just lost a part of my heart reading this book. And I’ll never find it again.
🖤Review 🖤
This is not standalone. Books 1 and 2 must be read prior. This book goes back in time many years, to the beginning where the brothers lives started.
We see who they were and get so many answers on why Michele is who he is now and why Rafaelo is who he is in present time.
This book is heavy. It’s a-lot to take in. At many points of reading, I had to read one chapter at a time and put the book down. And breathe. This is NOT a romance.
It’s full of childhood abuse (mentally, and physically), neglect, rape, and so much more. The impact this book will leave you is ALOT.
Veronica Lancet is a story teller and her words are full of pure talent… she made us readers cry and weep for a man we all were disgusted and hateful towards in book 1 and 2.
This is the history of Michele and Rafaelo. Two brothers. Now enemies.
Sins are unveiled.
Horrors are revealed.
“One step at a time. The crack is enough for now. Already there's something sinister enveloping me in noxious waves, poisoning my mind and my soul. Or is it? For some reason, I think I've been poisoned all along. I just disguised it well.”
Are sadists born? Or are they raised to become one?
This is an incredible story. About a war. About sinners. About the deep dark underbelly of this dark dark world and its unhinged players…..
July 22, 2023
It was amazing. My thoughts are completely with the heroes now.
Raf and Noelle have definitely become my favorite characters from the Lancet and with each book I fall more and more in love with them.
Every time I write less and less reviews because I'm afraid to write a spoiler in it.
But take my word for it, you should definitely read this series
Raf and Noelle have definitely become my favorite characters from the Lancet and with each book I fall more and more in love with them.
Every time I write less and less reviews because I'm afraid to write a spoiler in it.
But take my word for it, you should definitely read this series
July 20, 2023
I always wonder how book after book Veronica makes me feel more and more in love with her books… This book it’s the most heartbroken, dark and raw that I have read from her so far. I loved it, of course.
I was prepared to cry, but I really didn’t imagine how much. In this book we saw why the brothers hate each other so much (better yet, why Michele hates Raf so much) and I need to say: it’s worse than I imagined. Michele’s story in his childhood and growing up it’s not only sad, but also completely heartbroken. After so many tears, I fell in love more for him and now I understand why he became what he is right now: a shadow of himself, a man functioned by one single goal: revenge (because he lost everything else). In parallel we saw some glimpses of young Raf and how he moved on after the events in Morally Ambiguos.
If you read the books so far a fair warning: you will cry (a lot), and probably defend characters that you didn’t imagine defending (that’s the beauty of Veronica’s book after all). Really excited for the next book.
I was prepared to cry, but I really didn’t imagine how much. In this book we saw why the brothers hate each other so much (better yet, why Michele hates Raf so much) and I need to say: it’s worse than I imagined. Michele’s story in his childhood and growing up it’s not only sad, but also completely heartbroken. After so many tears, I fell in love more for him and now I understand why he became what he is right now: a shadow of himself, a man functioned by one single goal: revenge (because he lost everything else). In parallel we saw some glimpses of young Raf and how he moved on after the events in Morally Ambiguos.
If you read the books so far a fair warning: you will cry (a lot), and probably defend characters that you didn’t imagine defending (that’s the beauty of Veronica’s book after all). Really excited for the next book.
July 23, 2023
one book
I gave it a one star because it only needed to be a glimpse into the past not an entire book on it in my opinion.
I gave it a one star because it only needed to be a glimpse into the past not an entire book on it in my opinion.
July 27, 2023
ok now i cannot wait for the next book?? please when??
ok i cried so bad. my heart goes out to Michele.
they have graphic and detailed child abuse, child rape.
when Michele was a kid, his parents always dotted on his younger brother, Rafael. his mother never show love to him. his father always beat him.
his family got into a financial problem, so they have to stay and seek protection from his cousin family. his cousin, Antonio who is fascinated with Michele has raped him for almost a year. Raf found out about the rape but they were blackmailed to silence so that their sister, Gianna can be safe.
Raf also witnessed how Michele was getting raped and double penetrated. Antonio offer an out for Michelle in exchange for Raf to replace Michele’s place. But Raf just ran and left him.
when they’re convinced gianna is safe, they planned to tell the truth about the rape. but they all didn’t believe Michele and calling him fag. he felt so betrayed and asking for Raf to back him up and support his story, but Raf just lied telling the rape didn’t happen.
Michele felt so betrayed. that’s when he started to change from the sweet, kind hearted boy to emotionless boy. he no longer the kid who got bullied in school. his biological father, Nicolo help him to grow up stronger to steal the inheritance of Guerra.
but there’s also a behind story on why Raf had to betray Michele his mother lied to him, and the worst thing is that his mother knew all along about the rape but never did anything.
"We can do this two ways, little Michele. You can fight me all you want, but that's going to hurt only yourself. Or you can not struggle, and I'll even do you a favor."
"There's no why, little Michele. I want you. But I don't want you fighting me. I want you to take me, fully take me,"
"What do you say, Raf. Will you save your brother now?"
“Michele's tortured eyes connected with Raf, and to his great shame, he averted his gaze. He looked away, opening the door and dashing into the cold night air.”
"Antonio raped me."
"Raf," he turned to his brother. "Raf can tell you. He saw us. He saw everything.”
"It's not true.” His brother had lied. Raf had promised he'd have his back and then…he hadn't.”
“Why? Why was he so unlovable? Soon, though, the question morphed. Why was he so hard to love but so easy to hate?”
“After the beating he'd taken from his father he'd thought at least Raf would come by to check on him, as he'd done in the past. But as soon as that thought crossed Michele's mind, he was reminded of his brother's stance towards the whole fiasco—that he'd decided the family business was more important than Michele.”
"I am your family, too. I…"
"We need to get our priorities straight, Michele. And right now, we can't afford to lose Uncle Franco's support,"
“He'd always thought that despite the fact that the bad moments far outweighed the good ones in his life, at some point the balance would work in his favor. If he withstood the bad, he'd be deserving of the good—and much, much more appreciative of it.”
“But Michele was at a point where he didn't think there would ever be good. Blow after blow, life showed him how merciless it was, fate choosing him as unworthy of her rewards. And time after time, though he tried to measure up to something—to some ideal—it was to be hit back, kicked to the ground and reminded that his ideals weighed nothing in the real world. Still. He'd hoped.”
“Slowly, yet precisely, he felt himself slip. And as his teary eyes closed with the power of his emotions—the last outburst and ultimate catharsis—he was free. Empty, and free.”
ok i cried so bad. my heart goes out to Michele.
they have graphic and detailed child abuse, child rape.
when Michele was a kid, his parents always dotted on his younger brother, Rafael. his mother never show love to him. his father always beat him.
his family got into a financial problem, so they have to stay and seek protection from his cousin family. his cousin, Antonio who is fascinated with Michele has raped him for almost a year. Raf found out about the rape but they were blackmailed to silence so that their sister, Gianna can be safe.
Raf also witnessed how Michele was getting raped and double penetrated. Antonio offer an out for Michelle in exchange for Raf to replace Michele’s place. But Raf just ran and left him.
when they’re convinced gianna is safe, they planned to tell the truth about the rape. but they all didn’t believe Michele and calling him fag. he felt so betrayed and asking for Raf to back him up and support his story, but Raf just lied telling the rape didn’t happen.
Michele felt so betrayed. that’s when he started to change from the sweet, kind hearted boy to emotionless boy. he no longer the kid who got bullied in school. his biological father, Nicolo help him to grow up stronger to steal the inheritance of Guerra.
but there’s also a behind story on why Raf had to betray Michele his mother lied to him, and the worst thing is that his mother knew all along about the rape but never did anything.
"We can do this two ways, little Michele. You can fight me all you want, but that's going to hurt only yourself. Or you can not struggle, and I'll even do you a favor."
"There's no why, little Michele. I want you. But I don't want you fighting me. I want you to take me, fully take me,"
"What do you say, Raf. Will you save your brother now?"
“Michele's tortured eyes connected with Raf, and to his great shame, he averted his gaze. He looked away, opening the door and dashing into the cold night air.”
"Antonio raped me."
"Raf," he turned to his brother. "Raf can tell you. He saw us. He saw everything.”
"It's not true.” His brother had lied. Raf had promised he'd have his back and then…he hadn't.”
“Why? Why was he so unlovable? Soon, though, the question morphed. Why was he so hard to love but so easy to hate?”
“After the beating he'd taken from his father he'd thought at least Raf would come by to check on him, as he'd done in the past. But as soon as that thought crossed Michele's mind, he was reminded of his brother's stance towards the whole fiasco—that he'd decided the family business was more important than Michele.”
"I am your family, too. I…"
"We need to get our priorities straight, Michele. And right now, we can't afford to lose Uncle Franco's support,"
“He'd always thought that despite the fact that the bad moments far outweighed the good ones in his life, at some point the balance would work in his favor. If he withstood the bad, he'd be deserving of the good—and much, much more appreciative of it.”
“But Michele was at a point where he didn't think there would ever be good. Blow after blow, life showed him how merciless it was, fate choosing him as unworthy of her rewards. And time after time, though he tried to measure up to something—to some ideal—it was to be hit back, kicked to the ground and reminded that his ideals weighed nothing in the real world. Still. He'd hoped.”
“Slowly, yet precisely, he felt himself slip. And as his teary eyes closed with the power of his emotions—the last outburst and ultimate catharsis—he was free. Empty, and free.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2023
My heart shattered for both Michele and Rafaelo, mostly Michele - especially his child self. I wanted to give him a hug.
In the previous book, he caught my attention (Michele), even though that one action of his was so disgusting which can't be forgiven no matter how we see it. That was bad. He suffered and went through hell, but that doesn't justify, right?
But I still get how he became the man he is now.
No one deserves life like that. In so many ways he felt relatable to me, my poor boy. 🥺
And Raf? I know, everything is not easy, by seeing from his perspective it was bad as well. I got his intentions and thoughts. He never wanted to hurt or betray his brother, but with the force of circumstances he chose to stay quiet.
Wish he had the courage to tell.
Both of them were broken, and that led to a line of enemies drawn between them.
I loved how Veronica aka the author wrote this, the story telling was really good. One moment she writes a character really hateable but the second she would make you rethink your choices. Really mesmerizing style.
I'm enjoying this series!!!!!
In the previous book, he caught my attention (Michele), even though that one action of his was so disgusting which can't be forgiven no matter how we see it. That was bad. He suffered and went through hell, but that doesn't justify, right?
But I still get how he became the man he is now.
No one deserves life like that. In so many ways he felt relatable to me, my poor boy. 🥺
And Raf? I know, everything is not easy, by seeing from his perspective it was bad as well. I got his intentions and thoughts. He never wanted to hurt or betray his brother, but with the force of circumstances he chose to stay quiet.
Wish he had the courage to tell.
Both of them were broken, and that led to a line of enemies drawn between them.
I loved how Veronica aka the author wrote this, the story telling was really good. One moment she writes a character really hateable but the second she would make you rethink your choices. Really mesmerizing style.
I'm enjoying this series!!!!!
August 14, 2023
Yucky don't even bother.
March 17, 2024
the darkest book i have ever read,and probably will ever read.
December 31, 2024
Michele’s return should be waited!
When the most trusted person your brother shoots you in the back, you found a new family loved one and even you adopted a child but then they crashed everything. So I hated Michele but from now on I see no reason to should hated him.
Now I understand why Michele in his revenge er.
MicheleZia cameo’s🥺💚 I know they dethroned the other favorites because they’re moment.
“It's so pretty," she finally spoke, and he noticed she didn't consider herself pretty, merely the drawing.
“Like you," he smiled. "Pretty like you. After all, you were the model."
She blushed, her shyness coming to the surface.
“Here," he took hold of his pencil again and scribbled a few words in the corner.
From Michele to Venezia, the prettiest pink princess.
“It's yours now," he handed it to her.
“Really? I can have it?"
“Of course, I drew it for you."
She held it in both hands as if it was something precious, her eyes greedily drinking in the drawing. He'd tried his best to make her a pretty princess—one to rival any doll out there and any lady that told her she couldn't be one.
I’m not to romanticize because they’re just a kid but I read this scene twice, first in the war of sins and now here. It’s always making me happy 🤍 When they were innocent, kind…
I loved this series so much, it’s my favorite after the Morally Questionable 🤪
RafNoelle one of my fav couples and I love them, don’t criticize them. MicheleZia like what I said before their returning will be unforgettable for me! My eyes on their trilogy 🤍
When the most trusted person your brother shoots you in the back, you found a new family loved one and even you adopted a child but then they crashed everything. So I hated Michele but from now on I see no reason to should hated him.
Now I understand why Michele in his revenge er.
MicheleZia cameo’s🥺💚 I know they dethroned the other favorites because they’re moment.
“It's so pretty," she finally spoke, and he noticed she didn't consider herself pretty, merely the drawing.
“Like you," he smiled. "Pretty like you. After all, you were the model."
She blushed, her shyness coming to the surface.
“Here," he took hold of his pencil again and scribbled a few words in the corner.
From Michele to Venezia, the prettiest pink princess.
“It's yours now," he handed it to her.
“Really? I can have it?"
“Of course, I drew it for you."
She held it in both hands as if it was something precious, her eyes greedily drinking in the drawing. He'd tried his best to make her a pretty princess—one to rival any doll out there and any lady that told her she couldn't be one.
I’m not to romanticize because they’re just a kid but I read this scene twice, first in the war of sins and now here. It’s always making me happy 🤍 When they were innocent, kind…
I loved this series so much, it’s my favorite after the Morally Questionable 🤪
RafNoelle one of my fav couples and I love them, don’t criticize them. MicheleZia like what I said before their returning will be unforgettable for me! My eyes on their trilogy 🤍
July 16, 2023
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Book 3 of 6 in the War of Sins series. THIS IS NOT A STANDALONE, must read books 1 & 2 first. Ends on a cliffhanger.
⚠️ Please heed the content/trigger warnings. This book is the darkest of the series so far.
First and foremost, I have to give VL praise yet again, for her gift of storytelling..I keep saying it with each book of her’s that I read—it is unmatched! I have yet to read anything of her’s that doesn’t blow me away.
In books 1&2, we are presented with a villain/victim dynamic between two brothers, but we are never really told how this relationship came to be. This book explores that familial history. It is almost entirely character driven, with the focus being on Michele and Rafaleo. It is complex and nuanced, extremely difficult to read, but absolutely necessary.
This series is so much more than just a dark mafia romance. It’s an entire experience. It’s epic & rich, and beautifully written. Each book has taken over my brain for the duration of time it’s taken me to read them..and there they remain. I can’t recommend them enough!
A huge thank you to the author for allowing me the privilege of being on her ARC team, and for sharing her talent!! I can’t wait for the next one.
Book 3 of 6 in the War of Sins series. THIS IS NOT A STANDALONE, must read books 1 & 2 first. Ends on a cliffhanger.
⚠️ Please heed the content/trigger warnings. This book is the darkest of the series so far.
First and foremost, I have to give VL praise yet again, for her gift of storytelling..I keep saying it with each book of her’s that I read—it is unmatched! I have yet to read anything of her’s that doesn’t blow me away.
In books 1&2, we are presented with a villain/victim dynamic between two brothers, but we are never really told how this relationship came to be. This book explores that familial history. It is almost entirely character driven, with the focus being on Michele and Rafaleo. It is complex and nuanced, extremely difficult to read, but absolutely necessary.
This series is so much more than just a dark mafia romance. It’s an entire experience. It’s epic & rich, and beautifully written. Each book has taken over my brain for the duration of time it’s taken me to read them..and there they remain. I can’t recommend them enough!
A huge thank you to the author for allowing me the privilege of being on her ARC team, and for sharing her talent!! I can’t wait for the next one.
July 28, 2023
Arc review!
This is book 3, but it will be part of another series in future.
Read the TW to this book!!!
this book is not for everyone, there are some very heavy and graphic content which may not be easy to read for some people.
This is pitch black dark romance!!!!
This book is about Michele’s past and about his life.
You really need to read this one since it’s also so important for the whole story.
This book will show you not a pretty and cute childhood story, but instead you’ll get to read a devastating and sad story about a young boy who always had to fight on his own from the moment he’s been set into this world.
His mother died at his birth and his father was to occupied with his new wife and son.
Even when michele grew up in a family which seems to be loving, he was always on his own because all the attention and love where on someone else.
From a very young age michele had to fight one of his biggest fights for survival, because he had leukemia which is blood cancer and wasn’t doing so great.
In the book you’ll see his ambition for life and to fight and especially his strength….
My heart was breaking and aching for little michele, he had no one on who he could lean on, cry on or look up to…
But luckily he had Giana his older sister who’s always been there for him and always tried to protect him.
He also had Rafael his little half brother with whom he spent a lot of time with but even he was not supportive for him or there for him….
Even the so perfect son Rafael is not that perfect and kind as everyone thinks…
He has many dark secrets buried, so be prepared for the next book and find out ….
I think Michele just needed a huge hug and lots of love 💔
This is book 3, but it will be part of another series in future.
Read the TW to this book!!!
this book is not for everyone, there are some very heavy and graphic content which may not be easy to read for some people.
This is pitch black dark romance!!!!
This book is about Michele’s past and about his life.
You really need to read this one since it’s also so important for the whole story.
This book will show you not a pretty and cute childhood story, but instead you’ll get to read a devastating and sad story about a young boy who always had to fight on his own from the moment he’s been set into this world.
His mother died at his birth and his father was to occupied with his new wife and son.
Even when michele grew up in a family which seems to be loving, he was always on his own because all the attention and love where on someone else.
From a very young age michele had to fight one of his biggest fights for survival, because he had leukemia which is blood cancer and wasn’t doing so great.
In the book you’ll see his ambition for life and to fight and especially his strength….
My heart was breaking and aching for little michele, he had no one on who he could lean on, cry on or look up to…
But luckily he had Giana his older sister who’s always been there for him and always tried to protect him.
He also had Rafael his little half brother with whom he spent a lot of time with but even he was not supportive for him or there for him….
Even the so perfect son Rafael is not that perfect and kind as everyone thinks…
He has many dark secrets buried, so be prepared for the next book and find out ….
I think Michele just needed a huge hug and lots of love 💔
July 24, 2023
As always Veronica Lancet made the characters come to life and made you feel their pain.
I mean I really like Michele’s character because he’s so deranged and broken and that’s what makes him so interesting.
The things he did to poor Zia in the last book were inexcusable and he showed what a monster he is.
And still with this book Veronica still managed to make you understand and feel sorry for him.
I cried for his child self and just wanted to give him a big fat hug😭
She really shows how this was a case of nurture and not nature
He wasn’t born a monster he was made one.
This book really got me excited for Michele’s series because I bet she could make me forget what he did and make me love him🥲😂
I’m very grateful to have been provided with an arc to this book and I’m leaving my review voluntarily.✨
I mean I really like Michele’s character because he’s so deranged and broken and that’s what makes him so interesting.
The things he did to poor Zia in the last book were inexcusable and he showed what a monster he is.
And still with this book Veronica still managed to make you understand and feel sorry for him.
I cried for his child self and just wanted to give him a big fat hug😭
She really shows how this was a case of nurture and not nature
He wasn’t born a monster he was made one.
This book really got me excited for Michele’s series because I bet she could make me forget what he did and make me love him🥲😂
I’m very grateful to have been provided with an arc to this book and I’m leaving my review voluntarily.✨
January 31, 2024
It was amazing. My thoughts are completely with the heroes now.
This is an incredible story. About a war. About sinners. About the deep dark underbelly of this dark dark world and its unhinged players….
Raf and Noelle have definitely become my favorite characters from the Lancet and with each book I fall more and more in love with them.
I don't want to spoil too much for you. And I am sure that you should read this incredible book.
Michelle and Noel are the best.
But take my word for it, you should definitely read this series
This is an incredible story. About a war. About sinners. About the deep dark underbelly of this dark dark world and its unhinged players….
Raf and Noelle have definitely become my favorite characters from the Lancet and with each book I fall more and more in love with them.
I don't want to spoil too much for you. And I am sure that you should read this incredible book.
Michelle and Noel are the best.
But take my word for it, you should definitely read this series
dnf
August 20, 2023DNF at 30%.
Read
July 25, 2024rip my soul out that would hurt less
December 19, 2025
watch me fight anyone who says something not nice about michele 🥊
September 9, 2023
Didn’t finish it, still at 67%. It dragged on forever. Might come back to it depending on how I feel.
August 3, 2023
This book made me cry my heart out. I bawled my eyes out until I had a headache the next day. This book, while part of a series, could stand alone as a retelling of two brothers who had been each others back until its not. Veronica wrote this painstakingly agonizing to the point I wanna be there inside the book just to give the two brothers a hug.
I gave this book a 4 because there's some scenes that I can't exactly have peace with. But, in all truth without my opinion involved, this book deserves a 5 stars. It is such a disappointment that some readers are dumb enough to comprehend why this book (centered in the past) is needed to understand the whole series. I can't see how this book should be written in another way. This is needed to understand better the character. I think, if one chapter of this book is omitted, it would be insufficient to justify and explain why the characters have been whom they are.
About the book!
Veronica is such a good author. I think that's an understatement. This book is so beautifully written. You could notice how its carefully worded—without bias to each character. It is so well written that it destroyed me for other books. You could see that the author is intelligent and articulate. Some words made my nose bleed; yet, you know it's not the type that uses a word just to come out as intelligent, but the author is simply astute that these words come naturally and suits the sentence. She set the bar so high that if some published books are to stand side-by-side with this book, the others would not stand a chance. From the plot to each character, you see how it is carefully planned.
Just like a mastermind, Veronica planned everything until almost no plot holes is left for readers; she planned everything for readers to converse nothing but morally weigh the characters and the plot written.
By the way this book touched some gruesome topics, it is without a doubt disgusting to imagine but you will feel how the author didn't write the details easily too, not because the author feel disgusted to the victim, but because of the disgust to the abuser. The way this books assure it was never the victims fault, rather some evil are simply evil. It was actually draining to read this type of scenes, but as a reader, this responsibility falls on us whether you chose to. This book just drained me mentally, I can't imagine how the author must've feel to write those details. (I hope everyone's still okay *sighs*)
CHARACTER REVIEW
Michele
This man had the power to make me forget why I hate him in the previous books. Michele had been through a lot. A LOT. that no child should have experience. It would be overdramatic, but Michele really took a miniscule part of my soul. It is amazing how resilient he was. For a child to experience domestic abuse while fighting a cancer and still see the beauty of the world, it is just amazing how Veronica really wrote him delicately when he was a child. For him, I was so enraged to the point I wanted to be inside the book just to let him know, he have someone. The way he was not jealously evil to raf when they were kid, man, the world don't deserve him. It is just sad to read that he have been a victim from his birth until recently then become villain in all sense of world. That's the thing, the world drain him, so he is set to drain the world.
I also want to point out their first meeting with zia. NO, I ain't talking about it romantically. I want to talk about how he found comfort in zia outside her sister. The momentary peace was not just stressed enough but I think it shows the fate that you can find solace in anyone, child or adult. Some says he forced himself to zia, but I really don't think that could happen as observed in Catalina situation. They just did him bad; even some readers, they judged him before he can speak his truth. I do not completely believed he lost all his humanity. I just think that's the transference talking. He wanted to be seen like that, so we saw him like that. I can't wait to read his book and see if he can redeem himself for me.
I did not expect SOLOMON, never once I would ever expect that, but it is really great to see how he became a father/brother to his solomon. I'd like to think he was a father he almost never had and an older brother that he wasn't able to. I really hope they could fix whatever he had with raf. I don't think I will heal forever. They atleast deserve that after all the struggles they lived.
Raf
At first I really thought I would never forgive him. That "one word" was his grave mistake. I think part of me would never come into terms with his decision; but, I somehow forgive him, because after all, no one hates raf more than himself. He had to live with that and I think we also already given a glimpse of what he had to struggle after what had happened in this book. It is very ironic that he had to experience the exact trouble Michele had experienced, tho different in some ways of situation. One could argue he brought it himself, yes he actually did—I just don't know what to feel about it because Raf knows it himself. One could say he is just being dramatic and trying to play the victim, but NO; raf, very much also a VICTIM, is just A VICTIM, BLAMING HIMSELF. His character may at some point come out as "self-centered" but i think ppl like him are just SELF-AWARE. They are the type that no one can hurt themselves more than they hurt themselves. It was mentioned in the book that Michele is a paradox, but I think in some ways, Raf is also a paradox—the way he could reason for others until its him.
There are some reasons I could not agree with Raf. I would never forgive his mother because after all, none of this would have happened if only his mother had a heart. His mother is simply evil, despite being good to raf, it all comes back that she has her own agenda. Just like Michele, at some point, I can see why he forgive his mother as his mother, but for the most part, I could not understand. But that is Raf, an ENFJ that could weigh between reasons and emotions, but me? I only see wrath when it comes to his mother and father.
Extra
- I really can't wait to read why noelle wasn't able to go and meet him face-to-face. It was just fun to read how they first meet! Did not saw it coming! there is more to tell, and i'm still in the ride for that. Can't also to see a grown-up zia.
- It's so ironic Raf had experienced what Michele had but despite having also his mother's love, he was still alone.
- Michele deserves better, i believe he could redeem himself.
- Antonio deserves more than what had happened. I swear I think, I wouldn't be able to read a book with a MC with its name on it. I hate this animal, he doesn't deserve to be called human. lol
- EDIT: WTH, it's 2:54 am and I had a random thought, is michele aware that zia is her possible cousin? I don't know what to feel/say💀 i hope he knew they are not related before he decided to do the deed. I draw the line on incest💀
I gave this book a 4 because there's some scenes that I can't exactly have peace with. But, in all truth without my opinion involved, this book deserves a 5 stars. It is such a disappointment that some readers are dumb enough to comprehend why this book (centered in the past) is needed to understand the whole series. I can't see how this book should be written in another way. This is needed to understand better the character. I think, if one chapter of this book is omitted, it would be insufficient to justify and explain why the characters have been whom they are.
About the book!
Veronica is such a good author. I think that's an understatement. This book is so beautifully written. You could notice how its carefully worded—without bias to each character. It is so well written that it destroyed me for other books. You could see that the author is intelligent and articulate. Some words made my nose bleed; yet, you know it's not the type that uses a word just to come out as intelligent, but the author is simply astute that these words come naturally and suits the sentence. She set the bar so high that if some published books are to stand side-by-side with this book, the others would not stand a chance. From the plot to each character, you see how it is carefully planned.
Just like a mastermind, Veronica planned everything until almost no plot holes is left for readers; she planned everything for readers to converse nothing but morally weigh the characters and the plot written.
By the way this book touched some gruesome topics, it is without a doubt disgusting to imagine but you will feel how the author didn't write the details easily too, not because the author feel disgusted to the victim, but because of the disgust to the abuser. The way this books assure it was never the victims fault, rather some evil are simply evil. It was actually draining to read this type of scenes, but as a reader, this responsibility falls on us whether you chose to. This book just drained me mentally, I can't imagine how the author must've feel to write those details. (I hope everyone's still okay *sighs*)
CHARACTER REVIEW
Michele
This man had the power to make me forget why I hate him in the previous books. Michele had been through a lot. A LOT. that no child should have experience. It would be overdramatic, but Michele really took a miniscule part of my soul. It is amazing how resilient he was. For a child to experience domestic abuse while fighting a cancer and still see the beauty of the world, it is just amazing how Veronica really wrote him delicately when he was a child. For him, I was so enraged to the point I wanted to be inside the book just to let him know, he have someone. The way he was not jealously evil to raf when they were kid, man, the world don't deserve him. It is just sad to read that he have been a victim from his birth until recently then become villain in all sense of world. That's the thing, the world drain him, so he is set to drain the world.
I also want to point out their first meeting with zia. NO, I ain't talking about it romantically. I want to talk about how he found comfort in zia outside her sister. The momentary peace was not just stressed enough but I think it shows the fate that you can find solace in anyone, child or adult. Some says he forced himself to zia, but I really don't think that could happen as observed in Catalina situation. They just did him bad; even some readers, they judged him before he can speak his truth. I do not completely believed he lost all his humanity. I just think that's the transference talking. He wanted to be seen like that, so we saw him like that. I can't wait to read his book and see if he can redeem himself for me.
I did not expect SOLOMON, never once I would ever expect that, but it is really great to see how he became a father/brother to his solomon. I'd like to think he was a father he almost never had and an older brother that he wasn't able to. I really hope they could fix whatever he had with raf. I don't think I will heal forever. They atleast deserve that after all the struggles they lived.
Raf
At first I really thought I would never forgive him. That "one word" was his grave mistake. I think part of me would never come into terms with his decision; but, I somehow forgive him, because after all, no one hates raf more than himself. He had to live with that and I think we also already given a glimpse of what he had to struggle after what had happened in this book. It is very ironic that he had to experience the exact trouble Michele had experienced, tho different in some ways of situation. One could argue he brought it himself, yes he actually did—I just don't know what to feel about it because Raf knows it himself. One could say he is just being dramatic and trying to play the victim, but NO; raf, very much also a VICTIM, is just A VICTIM, BLAMING HIMSELF. His character may at some point come out as "self-centered" but i think ppl like him are just SELF-AWARE. They are the type that no one can hurt themselves more than they hurt themselves. It was mentioned in the book that Michele is a paradox, but I think in some ways, Raf is also a paradox—the way he could reason for others until its him.
There are some reasons I could not agree with Raf. I would never forgive his mother because after all, none of this would have happened if only his mother had a heart. His mother is simply evil, despite being good to raf, it all comes back that she has her own agenda. Just like Michele, at some point, I can see why he forgive his mother as his mother, but for the most part, I could not understand. But that is Raf, an ENFJ that could weigh between reasons and emotions, but me? I only see wrath when it comes to his mother and father.
Extra
- I really can't wait to read why noelle wasn't able to go and meet him face-to-face. It was just fun to read how they first meet! Did not saw it coming! there is more to tell, and i'm still in the ride for that. Can't also to see a grown-up zia.
- It's so ironic Raf had experienced what Michele had but despite having also his mother's love, he was still alone.
- Michele deserves better, i believe he could redeem himself.
- Antonio deserves more than what had happened. I swear I think, I wouldn't be able to read a book with a MC with its name on it. I hate this animal, he doesn't deserve to be called human. lol
- EDIT: WTH, it's 2:54 am and I had a random thought, is michele aware that zia is her possible cousin? I don't know what to feel/say💀 i hope he knew they are not related before he decided to do the deed. I draw the line on incest💀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2023
First I’ll begin with heed Ms. Lancet’s trigger warnings VERY SERIOUSLY!!
I absolutely love dark reads, they are my favorite. I’m not ever triggered nor back off a dark story.
But I have to say while reading this book, I had to stop and back off and take a breather.
This story absolutely gutted and devastated me.
I was truly shattered and devastated in mind, heart and soul.
Michele that poor baby suffered so much. Every single adult destroyed him bit by bit.
They are absolutely vile disgusting pieces of crap! Most especially that witch Cosima.
She needed to be burned at the stake! What an evil devil that woman is!
Raf also didn’t have it easy and I was sad for him. But what he went through did not even compare with what was done to Michele.
I was an emotional wreck while reading. I absolutely ugly cried. And was traumatized with what was taking place.
At some point and time I hated every single character in the book!
Does no one have a conscience?! Does no one feel shame?! Does no one take the time to think through the consequences of their actions?!
Even Raf flabbergasted me with his freaking actions! I don’t care that he was fourteen.
Fourteen is old enough to know right from wrong and old enough to know what the outcome of his decisions would do.
I wanted most of these horrid people to be put in front of a firing squad and shot in different places of their bodies for maximum pain and to die a really slow painful death.
And I was absolutely giddy to what was done to Antiono. I just wish more was done especially to his backside!
To say I’m excited or looking forward to reading the next book after that stunning cliffhanger is unbecoming.
Yes I most definitely will be reading the next one but with trepidation and uneasy.
I absolutely love dark reads, they are my favorite. I’m not ever triggered nor back off a dark story.
But I have to say while reading this book, I had to stop and back off and take a breather.
This story absolutely gutted and devastated me.
I was truly shattered and devastated in mind, heart and soul.
Michele that poor baby suffered so much. Every single adult destroyed him bit by bit.
They are absolutely vile disgusting pieces of crap! Most especially that witch Cosima.
She needed to be burned at the stake! What an evil devil that woman is!
Raf also didn’t have it easy and I was sad for him. But what he went through did not even compare with what was done to Michele.
I was an emotional wreck while reading. I absolutely ugly cried. And was traumatized with what was taking place.
At some point and time I hated every single character in the book!
Does no one have a conscience?! Does no one feel shame?! Does no one take the time to think through the consequences of their actions?!
Even Raf flabbergasted me with his freaking actions! I don’t care that he was fourteen.
Fourteen is old enough to know right from wrong and old enough to know what the outcome of his decisions would do.
I wanted most of these horrid people to be put in front of a firing squad and shot in different places of their bodies for maximum pain and to die a really slow painful death.
And I was absolutely giddy to what was done to Antiono. I just wish more was done especially to his backside!
To say I’m excited or looking forward to reading the next book after that stunning cliffhanger is unbecoming.
Yes I most definitely will be reading the next one but with trepidation and uneasy.
July 25, 2024
Painful. Heart-wrenching. Haunting.
I think Michele took a part of my soul.
I think Michele took a part of my soul.
August 19, 2023
THIS WAS AMAZING EXEPCT THE MEMORIES PART I DIDNT UNDERTAND ANY SINGLE THING AND WHY THE BROTHERS HATE EACH OTHER
September 5, 2023
This one...THIS ONE! It was so tragic....
We FINALLY get Michele and Raf's backstory! And it makes me so sad because they were just kids forced to take on the burden of adults so early on 💔
Reading the brotherly bond between Michele and Raf slowly grow weaker until it ultimately broke was so hard.
Michele....poor Michele suffered so much due to other's. He was just a boy going through so mucn no child should ever have to. Reading his POV and all that he went through was so heart breaking. At least Nico was there for him at times to help him cope. All poor Michele wanted to do was protect his siblings.
I just can't stop thinking about all his suffering.
And Raf's choice THAT night....I wish he would've just stood up for Michele even if he was scared but I understand he was just a child :(
Although I don't justify or support all the things Michele does an adult, I definitely have a better understanding of his character. He just keeps losing those who are important to him all the time. If anything, he was a victim more in his life than he was a villain 😭
Veronica truly did a great job of creating characters that are so complex and haunted by their pasts...I just hope my two boys can make up in the future
We FINALLY get Michele and Raf's backstory! And it makes me so sad because they were just kids forced to take on the burden of adults so early on 💔
Reading the brotherly bond between Michele and Raf slowly grow weaker until it ultimately broke was so hard.
Michele....poor Michele suffered so much due to other's. He was just a boy going through so mucn no child should ever have to. Reading his POV and all that he went through was so heart breaking. At least Nico was there for him at times to help him cope. All poor Michele wanted to do was protect his siblings.
I just can't stop thinking about all his suffering.
And Raf's choice THAT night....I wish he would've just stood up for Michele even if he was scared but I understand he was just a child :(
Although I don't justify or support all the things Michele does an adult, I definitely have a better understanding of his character. He just keeps losing those who are important to him all the time. If anything, he was a victim more in his life than he was a villain 😭
Veronica truly did a great job of creating characters that are so complex and haunted by their pasts...I just hope my two boys can make up in the future
August 23, 2023
That's my favourite book in the series yet probably. The story of two brothers. The tragedy of two brothers. The amount of tears I shed for both of them. Like who even writes stuff like this? I wanted to jump from my window every chapter, my heart just couldn't possibly keep breaking so much.
What kind of a hell Michele went through. Tragedies after tragedies filled his life. In the first book there was a line where he said how no one ever was on his side, and when you re-read it knowing what exactly happened to him it becomes so much more devastating. No one was truly on his side. Not even his brother, whom he trusted with his life, whom he loved so deeply. That's why reading that awful scene where Raf "betrays" Michele was so hard. We know that Raf has good intentions, that he wants what's the best for him. But you still wanna scream at him to do something, to protect little Michele.
"I don't hate you. You're my brother and I love you,"
"Stay away from Michele, or I will fucking kill you,"
"I did it for you!" Raf yelled. "Goddamn it, I did it for you!"
This was so so hard to get through. I really hope they will miraculously forgive each other, since it's evident that Michele still has some tiniest but of love for his brother.
What kind of a hell Michele went through. Tragedies after tragedies filled his life. In the first book there was a line where he said how no one ever was on his side, and when you re-read it knowing what exactly happened to him it becomes so much more devastating. No one was truly on his side. Not even his brother, whom he trusted with his life, whom he loved so deeply. That's why reading that awful scene where Raf "betrays" Michele was so hard. We know that Raf has good intentions, that he wants what's the best for him. But you still wanna scream at him to do something, to protect little Michele.
"I don't hate you. You're my brother and I love you,"
"Stay away from Michele, or I will fucking kill you,"
"I did it for you!" Raf yelled. "Goddamn it, I did it for you!"
This was so so hard to get through. I really hope they will miraculously forgive each other, since it's evident that Michele still has some tiniest but of love for his brother.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2023
*review may contain a couple of spoilers, but I'll try not to because this book covers A LOT of ground*
Definitely make sure to check CW/TW -- contains dark themes. And holy cow, this is the darkest one so far...
5 ⭐ / won't say it's spicy, but does contain graphic s€xual content, sometimes of a violent nature
First person POV for the first couple chapters, but then third person POV split with the two brothers for the rest of the book.
This is the third book in a series, and is NOT a standalone. You will need to read the first two books. This does end with a cliffhanger. Also mentions plot points from the books Frivolous and Morally Ambiguous, so there's going to be spoilers for those if you haven't read them yet.
Starting after the cliffhanger in The Foiled Plan, Noelle being held captive by Michele, and Raf is finding himself being in a position to make a choice. But before he does, Michele decides it's story time... And we go back in time to see the history between the two brothers.
Michele's backstory is absolutely heartbreaking. I had a feeling it was going to be a doozy since I was having a hard time finding ANY redeeming qualities for him in the last two books, but wow, I was just heartbroken for this kid. He goes through so many things that no human should ever have to endure. I'm not going to go into what those things are here, but man, it's rough. Once again, CHECK THE TW!!! There is so much that goes into Michele becoming the way he is.
Concurrently, you also get a look into Raf's backstory. Now, is he the bad guy he's painted out to be? Mehhhh, I wouldn't say so, but he does make some bad decisions for sure. He definitely puts way too much trust into his terrible mother, and that backfires to the nth degree. He finds himself living in punishment to make up for his bad choices, but is it enough?
I definitely teared up a few times, my heart was definitely breaking for these two boys being constantly manipulated and twisted by this family and unforgiving world they're born into. This is definitely not a hearts and rainbows HEA kinda story, it's hard and dark and just downright tragic. The cliffhanger had me wishing the next book would be released tomorrow. Once again, Veronica Lancet just knows how to weave this story and give us information when we need it, and a twist when we need one. I love how she writes in a way where you just have to know where this is all going. Can't wait for the next installment in this series!
Definitely make sure to check CW/TW -- contains dark themes. And holy cow, this is the darkest one so far...
5 ⭐ / won't say it's spicy, but does contain graphic s€xual content, sometimes of a violent nature
First person POV for the first couple chapters, but then third person POV split with the two brothers for the rest of the book.
This is the third book in a series, and is NOT a standalone. You will need to read the first two books. This does end with a cliffhanger. Also mentions plot points from the books Frivolous and Morally Ambiguous, so there's going to be spoilers for those if you haven't read them yet.
Starting after the cliffhanger in The Foiled Plan, Noelle being held captive by Michele, and Raf is finding himself being in a position to make a choice. But before he does, Michele decides it's story time... And we go back in time to see the history between the two brothers.
Michele's backstory is absolutely heartbreaking. I had a feeling it was going to be a doozy since I was having a hard time finding ANY redeeming qualities for him in the last two books, but wow, I was just heartbroken for this kid. He goes through so many things that no human should ever have to endure. I'm not going to go into what those things are here, but man, it's rough. Once again, CHECK THE TW!!! There is so much that goes into Michele becoming the way he is.
Concurrently, you also get a look into Raf's backstory. Now, is he the bad guy he's painted out to be? Mehhhh, I wouldn't say so, but he does make some bad decisions for sure. He definitely puts way too much trust into his terrible mother, and that backfires to the nth degree. He finds himself living in punishment to make up for his bad choices, but is it enough?
I definitely teared up a few times, my heart was definitely breaking for these two boys being constantly manipulated and twisted by this family and unforgiving world they're born into. This is definitely not a hearts and rainbows HEA kinda story, it's hard and dark and just downright tragic. The cliffhanger had me wishing the next book would be released tomorrow. Once again, Veronica Lancet just knows how to weave this story and give us information when we need it, and a twist when we need one. I love how she writes in a way where you just have to know where this is all going. Can't wait for the next installment in this series!
July 19, 2023
OMG.... I cannot get enough of this series. I was terrified going into this book. This story is so unpredictable and there are plot twists everywhere but it did not disappoint.
Book 1, A Taste of Revenge, was the slowest burn ever and I loved the build up so much between Raf and Noelle (1st Person POV) with the random Michele chapters sprinkled in (3rd Person POV). By the end of book 2, The Foiled Plan, my feelings on all of the characters are everywhere. I just had so many questions. In hindsight, I probably should have binged books 1 and 2 right before reading the Prodigal Son as some of the details I had forgotten. Mostly details about Michele from others POVs that have thus far built our perception of him. At the end of book 3, (The Prodigal Son) we now know the details of both Raf and Michele's lives up until Michele gets rid of Raf which didn't actually go the way Michele planned as he specifically would never want to hurt anyone the way he was.
There was so much devastation and heartbreak for these boys in this book and many of the choices they had to make to save each other only caused them pain. (I'd say 98% is 3rd person POVs for the boys from 8 years old to 22.) As Raf and Michele are roughly the same age, the chapters are only marked by their age at the time and usually within a few paragraphs you know whose chapter it is for.
I would not call this particular book a romance, however, every detail is needed in this series which is a romance. I am glad she wrote the books in this order because my mind and heart handle past trauma much better than when it is actually happening to the characters in the present. If the books would have started out with Raf and Michele as children I would be devastated. With that said, now that I know what is going on in poor Michele's head and what was happening in Raf's, I don't think I would be able to pick a side at this point. With all my heart I hope they can reconcile. I need the bromance more than a romance at this point.
Finally, my absolute favorite part of the books were when Michele meets 5 year old Zia and takes care of her and then the friendship Raf builds with Noelle without even knowing it was her. It gave my little broken heart so much hope for the rest of the series.
Book 1, A Taste of Revenge, was the slowest burn ever and I loved the build up so much between Raf and Noelle (1st Person POV) with the random Michele chapters sprinkled in (3rd Person POV). By the end of book 2, The Foiled Plan, my feelings on all of the characters are everywhere. I just had so many questions. In hindsight, I probably should have binged books 1 and 2 right before reading the Prodigal Son as some of the details I had forgotten. Mostly details about Michele from others POVs that have thus far built our perception of him. At the end of book 3, (The Prodigal Son) we now know the details of both Raf and Michele's lives up until Michele gets rid of Raf which didn't actually go the way Michele planned as he specifically would never want to hurt anyone the way he was.
There was so much devastation and heartbreak for these boys in this book and many of the choices they had to make to save each other only caused them pain. (I'd say 98% is 3rd person POVs for the boys from 8 years old to 22.) As Raf and Michele are roughly the same age, the chapters are only marked by their age at the time and usually within a few paragraphs you know whose chapter it is for.
I would not call this particular book a romance, however, every detail is needed in this series which is a romance. I am glad she wrote the books in this order because my mind and heart handle past trauma much better than when it is actually happening to the characters in the present. If the books would have started out with Raf and Michele as children I would be devastated. With that said, now that I know what is going on in poor Michele's head and what was happening in Raf's, I don't think I would be able to pick a side at this point. With all my heart I hope they can reconcile. I need the bromance more than a romance at this point.
Finally, my absolute favorite part of the books were when Michele meets 5 year old Zia and takes care of her and then the friendship Raf builds with Noelle without even knowing it was her. It gave my little broken heart so much hope for the rest of the series.
July 22, 2023
The Prodigal Son is book 3 of what will quickly culminate into 6 books (War of Sins series).
I think she's been rapidly releasing them each month. This is great for anyone that doesn't like waiting an entire year between books!
Book 1: The Taste of Revenge was, at it's foundation, an enemies to lovers mafia romance. It was also very slow burn & the culmination of the angst really doesn't occur until book 2.
Book 2: The Foiled Plan not only explored the evolving romance between the main characters but also took the reader further into the depths of the drama unfolding between 2 mafia families & all of the dark & devious actions of everyone involved. We got hints that nothing was as it seemed & that even our MCs were hiding their dark sides & perhaps weren't as innocent as we had initially assumed.
With this, I'll now tell you about book 3: The Prodigal Son.
4.5 rounded to ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐& no 🌶️
This book definitely did not concentrate on any romantic relationships as the previous 2 books. Normally, I'd be a bit bummed about this because I love my smut BUT this book answered some major questions for me.
It concentrated on the adolescent & young adult years of the 2 brothers.
To say I was invested at every turn of the page is putting it rather lightly. I honestly had a bit of an anxiety attack through a lengthy portion of the book. I haven't felt that level of anxiety in a long time but the scenarios portrayed definitely triggered those feelings in me.
Near the end, there was also a situation that made me cry.
So yeah, lots of emotions.
What truly put me in a tail spin is that I grew empathy for a character that truly holds no redemption. I can't see him ever correcting his wrongs...but damn. I hurt for him all the same.
And on the flip side of that same coin, I now kinda don't like the MC. And, sorry, but I don't feel pity for his captivity 🤷🏻♀️ 😂
My feelings are all over the place.
I desperately need the next book to center me & my conflicting emotions.
I think she's been rapidly releasing them each month. This is great for anyone that doesn't like waiting an entire year between books!
Book 1: The Taste of Revenge was, at it's foundation, an enemies to lovers mafia romance. It was also very slow burn & the culmination of the angst really doesn't occur until book 2.
Book 2: The Foiled Plan not only explored the evolving romance between the main characters but also took the reader further into the depths of the drama unfolding between 2 mafia families & all of the dark & devious actions of everyone involved. We got hints that nothing was as it seemed & that even our MCs were hiding their dark sides & perhaps weren't as innocent as we had initially assumed.
With this, I'll now tell you about book 3: The Prodigal Son.
4.5 rounded to ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐& no 🌶️
This book definitely did not concentrate on any romantic relationships as the previous 2 books. Normally, I'd be a bit bummed about this because I love my smut BUT this book answered some major questions for me.
It concentrated on the adolescent & young adult years of the 2 brothers.
To say I was invested at every turn of the page is putting it rather lightly. I honestly had a bit of an anxiety attack through a lengthy portion of the book. I haven't felt that level of anxiety in a long time but the scenarios portrayed definitely triggered those feelings in me.
Near the end, there was also a situation that made me cry.
So yeah, lots of emotions.
What truly put me in a tail spin is that I grew empathy for a character that truly holds no redemption. I can't see him ever correcting his wrongs...but damn. I hurt for him all the same.
And on the flip side of that same coin, I now kinda don't like the MC. And, sorry, but I don't feel pity for his captivity 🤷🏻♀️ 😂
My feelings are all over the place.
I desperately need the next book to center me & my conflicting emotions.
October 21, 2023
“No matter how hard things get, there's always something worse. When you're free falling, the abyss embraces you, swallowing you up and eating you alive. There's always more darkness. More pain. More suffering. But that doesn't mean you should give up. Because where there's darkness there's light. Aim for the light. With everything you've got in you, aim for that light,"
Never judge a book by its cover, there is always a story, the past that affects them and makes them who they are now, the actions of others, the hurt the others cause, the betrayal, and the suffering that they inflicted upon the villain. There is no such thing as a villain being born they have been made. This book is the definition of a villain being created, and seeing their point of view and what had happened to them will make you change your impression of them. They were innocent, they were pure.
Michele died three times, once mentally, and twice physically, still, he lives but each time a piece of the old Michele dies with them. He had two families, in the first one, one ran away for her safety and one betrayed him. The other one, one who raised him and taught him how to face life, one was a mother figure to him, one who became his only friend and one who saw him as a father figure, but they died -except the fiend one- by his enemies. Life took away his happiness before he gained anything and when he did life took it away. What he went through was hard for me to read and I cried so much that I had to take A break from it, that is how hard it was for me to read it let alone endure it. This book is so far my fav of the whole series, Veronica definitely know how to make the characters so complicated the way their mind works, I am saying Michele deserves better!!!
I will not recommend this series to anyone who can not read the dark romance bc the name you know it is ( DARK ).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2023
The Prodigal Son by Veronica Lancet is the third installment of the War of Sins Saga. We finally get a piece of the beautifully woven puzzle to the backstory of the once inseparable brothers, who are now sworn enemies. We see the innocence of childhood, and as they start to grow they are lured into the darkness and something unthinkable happens that will forever change their lives.
In Prodigal Son we learn raw resentful truths that leave two brothers at odds with one another who are ready for war and bloodshed. Death is the only answer for the crimes both have paid.
Michele is haunted and consumed by the past, he lusts for revenge and his will to have it was both frightening and truly astonishing to read. My heart broke for him and all he lost, I just hope his pet will keep him level headed.
As for Rafaelo he is on the verge of self destruction. He struggles between right and wrong, darkness and light. The demons he hides, truly made him a relatable character.
When I hit the final page I wanted to throw this book across the room and sob in a corner, the angst is HIGH in this one. That being said, this is not a standalone, you do need to read the previous books before Prodigal Son to fully grasp and understand the growth and depth of these characters.
The Prodigal Son is a chilling addition to the War of Sins Series. It’s a haunting tale of two brothers who have lost grasp themselves to bloodshed. Revenge is their only lifeline, and it will be done. . . swiftly. By any means necessary. As said before a spellbound of a read that kept me up at night, this series gets darker as the books go on and I love every second of it. Highly recommend, but please read the trigger warnings!
In Prodigal Son we learn raw resentful truths that leave two brothers at odds with one another who are ready for war and bloodshed. Death is the only answer for the crimes both have paid.
Michele is haunted and consumed by the past, he lusts for revenge and his will to have it was both frightening and truly astonishing to read. My heart broke for him and all he lost, I just hope his pet will keep him level headed.
As for Rafaelo he is on the verge of self destruction. He struggles between right and wrong, darkness and light. The demons he hides, truly made him a relatable character.
When I hit the final page I wanted to throw this book across the room and sob in a corner, the angst is HIGH in this one. That being said, this is not a standalone, you do need to read the previous books before Prodigal Son to fully grasp and understand the growth and depth of these characters.
The Prodigal Son is a chilling addition to the War of Sins Series. It’s a haunting tale of two brothers who have lost grasp themselves to bloodshed. Revenge is their only lifeline, and it will be done. . . swiftly. By any means necessary. As said before a spellbound of a read that kept me up at night, this series gets darker as the books go on and I love every second of it. Highly recommend, but please read the trigger warnings!
July 15, 2023
After the cliffhanger Michele kidnapped Noel and put her in a cell to torture Raf but what both don’t know is that someone from Raf pass is alive and Michele is going to use that person to hurt Raf. He gonna have to choose who going to live.
Then we get the backstory of why Michele hate his brother and why he took revenge on Raf I’m not saying is justified but wow, Raf isn’t the good guy either. Michele has been suffering since he was little from cancer his dad and stepmom treated him as nothing Cosima being a witch.
Michele parentage is being question and after a mysterious donor that save Michele live. Things changed for the worst and it's really sad and disgusting that way Michele grow up and no one believe him I cried for this child no wonder he becomes this vile person who wants revenge.
Raf has to be perfect son the perfect student we're the right clothes. He loved his parent but in such a young age he saw his parent weren't perfect and he saw things young children shouldn't see. Raf witness something and he denied the whole thing which left Michele vulnerable. Raf felt so guilty that he literally became not so perfect and his mother being the second wife couldn't have that she needed to be perfect and like.Raf meet a mysterious person online gaming and with that person he could truly be himself.
We read about the Michele and Raf POVs from age 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 and adulthood 20 22 and the real reason why he is mistreated from the only parents he knows.
This book broke me for a child who goes through this everyday because there are cases all around the world about abuse and I'm glad this author write about this because there should be an awareness about it people don't want to know about. I Certainly don't want to know about it and I don't want to think about it either.
Then we get the backstory of why Michele hate his brother and why he took revenge on Raf I’m not saying is justified but wow, Raf isn’t the good guy either. Michele has been suffering since he was little from cancer his dad and stepmom treated him as nothing Cosima being a witch.
Michele parentage is being question and after a mysterious donor that save Michele live. Things changed for the worst and it's really sad and disgusting that way Michele grow up and no one believe him I cried for this child no wonder he becomes this vile person who wants revenge.
Raf has to be perfect son the perfect student we're the right clothes. He loved his parent but in such a young age he saw his parent weren't perfect and he saw things young children shouldn't see. Raf witness something and he denied the whole thing which left Michele vulnerable. Raf felt so guilty that he literally became not so perfect and his mother being the second wife couldn't have that she needed to be perfect and like.Raf meet a mysterious person online gaming and with that person he could truly be himself.
We read about the Michele and Raf POVs from age 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 and adulthood 20 22 and the real reason why he is mistreated from the only parents he knows.
This book broke me for a child who goes through this everyday because there are cases all around the world about abuse and I'm glad this author write about this because there should be an awareness about it people don't want to know about. I Certainly don't want to know about it and I don't want to think about it either.
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