Stalemate: Murdoch Mafia Novella

by Samantha Barrett

Are you ready to meet the next generation of Murdoch's and hear from the OG's again?

Genres: Novella

134 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 16, 2023

About the author

Samantha Barrett is originally from Auckland, New Zealand but living in Brisbane, Australia.

Sam writes all things dirty dark and delicious with a side of twisted mind fu*k.

She is a lover of all things red flags and an anti-hero is a must.

Reviews

[Kaitlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Without you, I am nothing, baby. I swore to you years ago on the day you agreed to love me until death that I would always be here loving you until my last breath. Shit, I'd still love you in the afterlife because you are mine no matter what!

🌟 Star Rating - 4/5
🔥 Spice Rating - 4/5

What To Expect:
🖤 MF
❤️ Novella
🖤 Mafia
❤️ Murdoch Next Generation
🖤 All The Spice
❤️ Cliffhanger

Now is the time for you to take over, my son. Be the leader I know you can be and protect out family. It's time for you to reign Royal.

𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘

Another awesome read from Ava Olsen, and I love that she took on a rockstar romance! I loved all of this book completely and stayed up late to finish it because I was hooked! The characters were so loveable, except Greg, and the storyline was heartwarming. Brodie and Van were absolutely destined for one another, and how they showed sides of one another that no one else saw was so sweet. A slow burn, the chemistry was there from the very beginning but the author edged us so good and when they got together, it was so intense and worth the wait! I loved the cameo from the ghost and I really want to know the backstory! I can't wait for the next book, it's going to be awesome!

[Kacie Mummawh0reads.x · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stalemate
By Samantha Barrett
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💧

I really set myself up to fail with this one. I don’t know why I expected @sam to not leave us with a cliff hanger but of course she did! My heart is in a vice being squeezed within an inch of its life and she leaves us like THAT!? THATS COLD SAM!!! Real cold!!
When is Royal’s book out!? I cannot wait that long!!


#stalemate #samathabarrett #darkromance #bookish #bookaddict #readersofinstagram #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #smut #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #review #arcreader #whychoose

[Eclectic Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a fan of romantic suspense novels and haven’t read the Murdoch Series, you are missing out on one of the best mafia family sagas out there. The Murdoch family is a complex and fascinating bunch, with alpha men and badass wives who would do anything for their loved ones. But if you are new to the series and planning to start the Memento Mori Series, there is one book you shouldn’t miss: the novella that introduces the Murdoch heirs.

I must confess, I’m not usually a fan of novellas. I prefer meaty, full-length novels that can take me on a journey for days or weeks. However, when I heard that the author, Samantha Barrett, recommended reading Stalemate before diving into the new series, I decided to give it a try. And I’m glad I did.

In this novella, Barrett breaks out each of the Murdoch siblings, their spouses, and their children in a clear and captivating way. There is a lot to learn, so if you are a reviewer like me, it’s best you write it down. I love that the Murdoch men are named after chess pieces, which adds a layer of intrigue and sophistication to their characters. I have fallen for each and every one, though I don’t know their entire stories yet. Something I plan to remedy soon!

The Murdoch heirs are as charismatic and intelligent as their parents. They are loyal, rebellious, competitive, and very smart, which gets them into trouble sometimes. Bad trouble…with the Vargas Cartel. As a result, the Murdoch Don and brothers are in dire straits as the book ends in a cliffhanger. But fear not, because the Memento Mori Series covers the new generation, which doesn’t play by the rules. Case in point, the first book is about Royal Murdoch, son of the Don of the Murdoch family, who is being promoted before he’s ready. I am currently devouring Royal’s book and can’t wait to see how the heir to the throne saves the day. More to come soon!

It’s a great credit to an author when one can write a splendid short story that held me captive from beginning to end. Samantha Barrett has a gift for creating rich and complex characters, weaving intricate plots, and keeping readers on the edge of their seats. I highly recommend reading her novels, starting with the Murdoch Series. She has been added to my favorite authors list, and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.

[Tessabelle's Book Obsession · Rating 5 out of 5]

When isn't a Murdoch Mafia novel a 5 star read. If you haven't read this series yet, I do suggest you go start right now.

The first few pages of this book will remind you why you fell head over heels hard for the Murdoch's. No matter which brother you wanted to dig your claws into, you'll get a quick recap of why Sam had you drooling over your screen to begin with.

This story gives you a few minor introductions to the next heads to the Mafia, with a fiery stubborn devil ready to take the reigns.

With a few hot and heavy moments to keep you satisfied until the release of the next generation. This book has snippets of past pain and horrors that had your tissues at the ready and with an introduction to a few hints at what the next gen has been through growing up.

You'll be on the edge, wishing Sam's magical writing hands could move at the speed of light, just so you can get your hands on what comes next.

[Nomathemba Mtsweni · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don’t like when authors gives me a stress😭😭😭this was supposed to a happy ending so we can the next generation not stress😭😭also why are the kids so entitled???they are annoying asf gosh hope they are better in their books

We have so many tropes for you to give us Enemies to Lovers from book 1 to book 6😭😭like some of them are just unrealistic enemies to lovers
1. Why is book 1 enemies to lover while they’ve been in love with each other for years??
2. With book 2 understand why they hate each so I like the trope for book 2
3. I want to understand it but at the same time I don’t because we already had enemies to lovers in the previous book so why give us another one in book 3 I mean enemies to lovers repeatedly??
4. This one could’ve been a hidden identity or something
5 bodyguard romance?😭please let’s give enemies to lovers a break. I’m tired of reading mmc wanting to break fmc so they can make the characters hate each other and wanting the fmc to be submissive it’s getting boring and annoying
6. Have mixed emotions with this one because Rook knew where Clare was and never went to her to see want happed what went wrong you know??so him hating her was unreasonable 🤷🏽‍♀️could’ve gave us a second chance romance and let them heal together or trauma bond whatever

My opinion though 🤗

[larisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stalemate

Loved this novella it was a fun quick read and it was very entertaining

This novella is connected to the Murdoch mafia series by samantha barrett.
I do recommend to read the series before this one because this one is about the next gernertaion ( their kids)

Still it was very entertaining to read really loved it.
I loved how bishop loves his wife even after so much time together they still have so much love for each others and are protecting their family 🥹🫶🏼

I think there should be more books of couples when they’re elder and when they spent a lot of time together, it’s lovely to see that there is still love after so many years 🥲❤️

But I do recommend you to look up the tw and be aware of a cliffhanger 😅

Can’t wait to read the next ones 🫶🏼😩

[Serena · Rating 5 out of 5]

A crossover novella to the next generation. You see what happened in the lead up to the ending of Rook.
Also, great to see the next generation and who some of the parent’s handle having children exactly like them.
Biship doesn’t want to hand the reigns over to his son Royal, but Royal doesn’t see it like that, he thinks his father is being stubborn, until his father explains why he’s waiting.
With the threat of war coming, you find out exactly who is to blame for the threat coming their way, with the parents being taken, it leads to the new series with the next generation being the only ones that can help.

[christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this novella. Stalemate had me remembering why I loved the Murdock family so much. In this book, we get to see even more of the Murdock guys and their wives, but also a glimpse of the next generation. Ohhh boy, i can already tell they are going to be a force to reckoned with. The way the storyline is written is a great way to flow from the Murdock series to the next-generation series. You don’t have to read the Murdock Mafia series to read this, but i highly suggest it. I can't wait for Royals' book to come out.

[Mumma Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow I have been waiting for this arc since the finale words in Rook. My beautiful Sammy you didn’t disappoint. Yes I’m still a little cut about the ending but it just makes me look forward to Royal’s book all the more. I really wish I could rate more than 5⭐️ because it’s more like a 10. And I have to mention that this little book of goodness is definitely a 5🌶️ spice rating. Reading this novella has me wanting to deep dive back into Bishop and start from the very beginning. Well done Sammy you make this Mumma proud xxx

[Salima · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the way Stalemate was written. Between OG and next generation. Combining the two was awesome. I can’t wait to read Royal’s book. I’m dying here with anticipation.

Those who have not read the Murdoch Mafia series I would definitely read that, it’s all about the OG’s. It was awesome. Now having the next generation ready to take over it’s going to be something else. Just can’t wait for the next book. That cliffhanger was just unfair. I’m so mad that I have to wait for Royal’s book. He is going to protect his family and show others that you don’t mess with his family. Another amazing book by Samantha Barrett.

[Linzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG what a way to start this next gen off. This novella is absolutely amazing and really sets the scene for the coming series. I’m loving the OG’s being back but those kids are something else. I will warn you that it’s one hell of a cliff hanger and boy can I not wait to start this. Samantha has knocked it out the park again, such a brilliant start to what I can only imagine is going to be another amazing series.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a perfect Segway to a next gen series. I absolutely loved the Murdochs!! This one gave us a grown up glimpse of them. Then we get to see a bit of how the kids have grown. I can not wait to dive into the next gen when it comes out!! Samantha gives us the spice, the story and the characters that give you an epic story!!

[Never2Busy4Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, there is nothing I can say that I haven't already. This woman is a mastermind.
And Queen of the Cliffy, this might be a novella, but you got to read the Murdoch to hey the full effect because you are going to love next gen but you should know where they came from

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. Samantha did an amazing job with this story. I have never been more excited to read a book as I was for this one and it didn’t disappoint. Can’t wait to read what Samantha has in store for us next.

[Barbara Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. Hate the ending cause it leaves you hanging but so worth it. Love Meelz, she takes no crap from her cousins and can hold her own against all of them. Vin has an amazing daughter, royal is just like his dad. Can't wait for the next one.

[Nicole Mulraney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Sam's books!! Her character development is amazing and this next generation is so good. It's brutal, angsty and dirty!! Definitely needs to be read by Mafia lovers.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It’s have a good bridge between first generation and second generation of the Murdoch’s. Can’t wait to see what happens next!

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the Murdoch series and couldn’t wait to be introduced to their children. I can’t wait to see what happens in the first book of the next generation. I have a feeling I’m going to fall in love with the kids just like I did their parents.

[Amber Paxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this!!! Loved how I got to see some of the OG characters along with their grown up kids. Seeing them all back and the new troubles that will happen, can’t wait to read more!

[Debbie Vanvoorhis gladitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dude!!!! This was freaking awesome. Stalemate was crazy good. I love that Samantha incorporated all of the Murdoch brothers , wives , and kiddos in this story. If you’ve read this series , then you will be blown away with this one. Oh the twists and turns , truly epic. You ppl seriously need to read this book. I can’t wait to see what she does next. WTG Samantha Barrett

[Nic_key_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stalemate is Murdoch Mafia Novella and the best thing about this is….we are getting the second generation!!!!!

It’s really no lie that this is one of my favorite mafia series. I read each book on the edge of my seat. This novella is no different. I’m talking a nail biter. You can already tell the second generation series is going to blow us away. It’s ends with so many questions going in my mind. I literally was yelling at Samantha through my kindle saying it can’t end there!!!

To say I’m more than excited for Royal’s book is an understatement. Royal is the Don’s son and you know Samantha is going to bring it.

[Angel Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing as always!!! I love how perfectly she aged the next generation! You can tell they were raised by there parents lol. I can’t wait to find out what happens next I’m so excited!

[★ ˙ ̟brookthesag🎀 !! · Rating 2 out of 5]

thank god i read this on mobile because i would’ve been pissed if i wasted my money buying a hard copy💀

[Mackenzie Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ★★★★☆

Review:

Stalemate by Samantha Barrett is a fast-paced, intense, and intricately woven romantic suspense novel that keeps readers on edge from start to finish. Barrett expertly combines high-stakes action, family loyalty, and romance, making this a thrilling read for fans of danger-fueled love stories.

The quote, "My son, the twins, and my niece are the best at what they do. You won't know they have you where they want you until it's too late. They are the Memento More and they will remind you that death isn't optional," captures the chilling, dangerous aura that permeates the story. The Memento More—a family team of elite, lethal professionals—are at the heart of this novel, with their unshakable bond and deadly precision driving much of the tension and intrigue.

What sets Stalemate apart is the way Barrett brings family dynamics into a world of organized crime and shadowy dealings. The Memento More operate with a ruthless efficiency that adds a unique layer to the story, reminding readers that loyalty runs deep, but so does the threat of betrayal. As the protagonist gets caught in this web of high-stakes strategy and manipulation, the danger is palpable, and the romance intensifies under the constant threat of violence.

The chemistry between the characters is charged with tension, as love and trust are tested in the dangerous world they navigate. Barrett does a fantastic job of balancing the romance with the suspense, ensuring that the emotional beats hit just as hard as the action-packed sequences. The stakes are always high, and the twists and turns make it impossible to predict how the story will end.

Overall, Stalemate is a gripping tale of loyalty, love, and survival where nothing is as it seems. If you enjoy romances that are packed with suspense, danger, and complex characters, this book will keep you hooked until the very end.

[Danielle Graves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stalemate acts like a recap, a prelude, and a bridge all rolled into one, and it does so brilliantly.

I haven't read the original Murdoch Mafia series, although I now want to, yet I was able to follow along with this short novella easily as it introduced both original characters and the next generation, creating a bridge between the two and showing how the storylines for both generations are linked and hinting at what is to come.

The author very cleverly gave us several different POVs, and while it would be easy to become confused, it actually helped establish roles and relationships within the family and see where there were pockets of drama and disarray.

It was easy to see the passion and love between the original couples in the family, including some hot and heavy scenes between a couple of them. While we don't get to witness any spicy scenes from the younger ones (early twenties), it is heavily hinted at that they aren't all clean-cut, sweet, and virginal, and I genuinely look forward to exploring their relationship dynamics in the future, especially the twins, who have hinted at a shared love/hate interest.

This is a brilliant novella, and Samantha has done a great job of drawing the reader in to the storyline, only to leave them with a giant cliffhanger and a desire for the first book in the new series. Personally, I can't wait.

[Jill Haworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A prequel novella featuring Bishop and all of his family members.
The children are all grown up and at university. They’re all happy to be involved in the Murdoch family business apart from Amelia who is about to begin medical school, just when everything goes pear shaped.
The cartel are after their families when their son and heir goes missing and they’re convinced the Murdoch’s are behind his mysterious disappearance.
The older generation are worried sick for the safety of their wives and kids and need to go into hiding for a while. But Amelia is refusing. She wants to live her life as she planned and not find herself penalised because of the family she happened to be born into.
Knight has a sneaking suspicion after an interesting conversation with his very observant wife, that Royal, Chanel, and the twins, Havoc and Chaos, could actually be behind it and are the elusive ‘Memento Mori’, leaving behind their calling cards… the King of Clubs, the Queen of Hearts, the Jack of Spades and the Ace of Diamonds.
Heirs and politicians have been going missing with no clue as to who is responsible.
This was a brilliant way to kick off the new series. It gives us a look into the lives of the family members years later, and a glimpse into the future, courtesy of their now grown up children. With the premise of a fascinating story interconnecting both generations. Excellent.

[Jasmine Acena · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ½

I have waited 6 freaking months for this story, and yes, I absolutely counted.
I don’t know how Sam did it, but this book is laced with crack🤣 Once I opened it on my kindle, it was game over (and now I have to wait until the next book🫠). I have no self-control when it comes to Sam’s writing, and Stalemate wasn’t going to be the exception, or break my streak.

Normally I prefer dual POV, sometimes three is okay depending on the author and how it all pieces together. But y’all wouldn’t even believe me if I told you how many different POVs Sam threw in to these pages. A perfect mix of the OGs and next gen, and like I said, don’t ask me how she did it😬 I’m not typically a fan of crossovers due to timelines not always lining up and the possibility for plot holes but Sam is a genius, and the recollection is flawless.
Due to her timelines matching up and how awesome her POV shifts were, I’d say reading the OG books 1-6 aren’t necessary before starting Stalemate BUT I highly recommend them.
1000% did not disappoint and now I’m just going to be here counting down the days until the next one hits my kindle.

[Christy Davisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow this was an awesome glimpse into what is coming soon!! Action packed and full of twists!

If you love the OG Murdoch's then you will love this novella because it's bittersweet to see them all grown up with grown kids now. Samantha Barrett held nothing back here and she gives you each OG's life then introduces you to the next generation who are even more ruthless than their parents.

This one gives you a little glimpse into what to expect in the Memento Mori series that is coming soon. All I can say is if you loved the Murdoch series then you are definitely gonna want this one. The Murdoch next gen are ruthless and power hungry for their time to show their family they mean business. I can’t wait to see what will happen next.

This is a Must Read to get you ready for what is about to happen next and this one is jam packed with spicy moments, twists, and a cliffhanger that will have you ready to throw your device! This new series is gonna be off the chains full of action and suspense and I'm so ready for it all. So grab this and get ready for the new generation to make their move now!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stalemate is an amazing novella! It has suspense, action, and spice! The author allowed each major character to have their own POV in the story ensuring that readers can better connect with them and understand the different dynamics between one character and another. I found that really helped me see how the older generation and the younger related to each other especially regarding Bishop and Royal. Royal thinks he is ready to take his father's place as the Don but thinks Bish is being selfish and not wanting to because he wants to retain power. Through a conversation, Royal realizes that his father does not want to make him the Don because he loves him and that would put a target on his back. However, due to the actions of a few of the younger generation the family is on the brink of war and there may be no choice but for the younger generation to step up. WARNING! Stalemate does end with a huge cliffhanger and I can't wait to see what happens next!

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stalemate by Samantha Barrett this is a novella that’s part of the Murdoch Mafia Series. It’s actually a short story to lead the way for the next generation. I read the Murdoch Series so I personally would recommend that you read that first before diving into this. I enjoyed reading this novella. It had suspense and spice. A great combo. In my opinion this sets up the next generation well as there was so much tension woven throughout the book. You also get glimpse of the next in line to rule. I’m eager to see where Samantha Barrett is going to take the next book. I’m eager to find out if any of the guesses I have will come to pass. Definitely recommend that you check out this author’s books, they’re written really well and if you love a good mafia stories with great romance… Look no further.

Final review:
4 out of 5 stars