Zoe Delaney is the dark romantic suspense pen name of USA Today bestselling author, Jen Katemi. Zoe's books are dark, push boundaries and include material that some readers may find triggering. Zoe lives in Melbourne, Australia. She loves her daughters, coffee, wine and her two very needy cats (not necessarily in that order!).
Zoe Delaney's latest novel, "Ruthless Betrayal," published by Flourish Books on October 25, 2023, is a thrilling addition to her Dark Enemies series. As a member of the Books and Bitches Arc team, I was fortunate to delve into the captivating narrative that unfolds within the pages of this enthralling tale.
The story revolves around a protagonist who undergoes a dramatic transformation from innocence to resilience, navigating a treacherous path as the wife of a notorious mob boss. Fleeing to safeguard both herself and her child, she finds solace in a life far removed from the opulent trappings of Boston high society. However, the shadows of her past loom large, as the enigmatic Rio Agosti emerges, casting an ominous shadow over her newfound tranquility.
Delaney's masterful storytelling prowess shines through in "Ruthless Betrayal," seamlessly weaving together elements of suspense, betrayal, and dark allure that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The author's adept portrayal of the protagonist's inner turmoil and the palpable tension that permeates the narrative serve to heighten the intrigue and maintain an immersive reading experience.
However, the book's cliffhanger conclusion left me reeling, eagerly anticipating the resolution of the gripping plot twists and unresolved conflicts. Delaney's skillful ability to craft a compelling narrative, coupled with the unexpected turns that punctuate the storyline, left a lasting impression, compelling me to eagerly await the next installment in the Dark Enemies series.
In summary, "Ruthless Betrayal" serves as a testament to Zoe Delaney's narrative prowess, offering readers a tantalizing glimpse into a world rife with danger, deception, and unrelenting suspense. With its intricately woven plot and dynamic characters, this book stands as a testament to Delaney's ability to immerse readers in a world of gripping intrigue and unyielding suspense.
4.25stars—RUTHLESS BETRAYAL is the second instalment in Zoe Delaney’s (aka Jen Katemi) contemporary, adult DARK ENEMIES dark, erotic, Mafia romance trilogy focusing on twenty-five year old, heir to the Carlotta empire Bianca Carlotti, and Gregorio ‘Rio’ Agosti, head of the Carlotti-Agosti Crime syndicate. RUTHLESS BETRAYAL should not be read as a stand alone as if picks up after the events and cliff hanger of book one RUTHLESS POSSESSION.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
If you have not read book one RUTHLESS POSSESSION, there may be spoilers in my review.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Bianca and Rio) RUTHLESS BETRAYAL follows in the aftermath in an attack against Rio Agosti. Bianca Carlotti-Agosti is on the run, fearing for her life and the life of her unborn child but betrayal comes at a cost, and our heroine will discover not one but two people have revealed her whereabouts. Forced back home with the man that she loves, Bianca and Rio welcome their child but someone else is working behinds the scenes to destroy them all. What ensues is the rekindling romance and relationship between Bianca and Rio, and the fall-out as a potential war is on the horizon, and Bianca and Rio’s child will be caught in the cross-fire.
The world building continues to focus on the lifestyle of a Mafia Crime Lord. When Bianca ran it revealed a possible weakness in the Carlotti-Agosti Crime syndicate, and the birth of their child may be the straw to take down Rio’s empire.
The relationship between Rio and Bianca is one of second chances, of a sorts. With Bianca’s forced return, our heroine struggles as the wife of a Mafia Don, and the impending birth of an innocent child. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate .
Several of the previous story line characters return, many are a threat to our story line couple including competing crime families. We are introduced to Rio’s younger sister Angel, and the return of his brother Nicky. The requisite evil has many faces.
RUTHLESS BETRAYAL is another story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, family and relationships, secrets and lies. The fast paced, character driven premise is dramatic, thrilling and engaging;the romance is seductive; the characters dynamic and charismatic. RUTHLESS BETRAYAL ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.
Ruthless Betrayal (Book 2, Dark Enemies) - Zoe Delaney
I was given an ARC copy of this story so I could provide an honest review.
Zoe Delaney is an Australian author, Zoe Delaney not being her actual name and rather a pen name the Melbournian uses. When she isn’t writing, Zoe runs a proof reading and editing service and loves to pamper her cats.
Bianca is now on the run from her husband Rio, trying to escape the violent and dangerous world he lives in – for her safety and for the safety of their child.
Yet it isn't long before the quiet peaceful life she has managed to build for herself and their child – is shattered. Rio and his men have finally found them and takes them back to his estate.
Now as her punishment for betraying Rio and showing weakness in his empire she is kept in the underground bunker beneath the estate until she shows she can do as is expected of her and not betray Rio again.
This proves to be harder than Bianca or Rio ever imagined because while this life and how they each choose to live it has them at a crossroads one thing that neither of them can deny is their insatiable attraction to one another.
But as they are slowly rebuilding their relationship and trust the unthinkable happens – the estate is attacked, and their child is taken from them and the person that may be responsible for this – is the last either of them expected.
“Ruthless Betrayal” is a fast-paced dark romance novel that picks up where the first instalment in the series left off. Bianca is struggling to come to terms with her place in Rio’s world but her stubbornness rather than keeping her and their child safe – actually caused a distraction keeping Rio’s mind off the task at hand whereas he might have been able to stop the plan to have their daughter taken from them. I loved the development and growth in the relationship between Rio and Bianca, but I was finding the dialogue to be a little cheesy and cliché which may have been due to the fast pace of the book – if things were given a bit more time and depth that would have really helped the story and character growth.
IF YOU HAVEN’T READ BOOK ONE, BE WARNED THAT SOME OF WHAT I TYPE NEXT WILL BE A SPOILER FOR YOU.
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We return a few months down the track from our cliffhanger in Book One, with Bianca still on the run, trying to build a new life for herself and her unborn child. Alone, and struggling, she attends her prenatal appointments and converses with nobody. At one of her appointments, she befriends another woman who is due with her fifth child. Thinking she is starting to be able to trust someone and fit in, she is then betrayed and her husband, Rio, arrives to collect her.
Bianca is Rio’s weakness; someone dangerous to his throne at the top of a Mafia Family and that of a Mafia Lord. He needed to get her back and get her under control again. To ensure that his reign remains, and they can weed out who it is trying to destroy everything.
Baby Agosti arrives, and Rio’s sister Angel is finally introduced, while we also get reacquainted with their brother, Nicky.
Book two leaves the story on another cliffhanger, where Rio and Bianca desperately try to find their precious baby – heir to the Agosti-Carlotti Fortune.
The people behind the kidnapping have now awoken Bianca’s Mafia Queen want for vengeance and I don’t think they are going to enjoy it when she gets their hands on them.
Zoe has delivered another outstanding book and now I’m craving book three. I NEED to know how this story ends.
5/5 ⭐⭐
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oh, the Web just keeps weaving! Hell, I was so excited for this book, especially after reading the first. The mic drop at the end as well left me craving more.
Once I started reading Rio and Bianca's second book today, I didn't stop until the very last page.
Ruthless Possession ended with Bianca leaving Gio. Gio didn't take the betrayal lightly and vowed that he wouldn't stop until he found his wife.
Bianca had her reasons for running, but none of that matters to Gio she is his wife, and he will not allow her to run again. Especially with this baby.
I can't help but love Gio. He loves Bianca, and in his business, love is weakness. Bianca is fierce and stands up for herself, and she loves him despite all the dangers.
This book was spicy af and the connection between Gio and Bianca is special.
This book ended again on a mild cliffhanger, but hell, if I don't want the book now. I really am excited about reading their conclusion Ruthless Enemy.
There are strict concerning notes by Zoe. Dark Mafia - triggers….
Long awaited follow up on Bianca & Rio. Entering the world - and I repeat question ????? revenge from Rio. But what about the unsuspecting surprise?
Twisted minds. Revenge. Betrayal. It never ends for Rio and Bianca. Just when you think you have solved a puzzle, you are faced with another and another. Some you may solve, others only lead to further questions. You will be caught in the web created here. Each page eas filled with intensity. You will want more.as per usual. And in this case hopefully no spoiling. If you are able, read in order consecutively. It will flow and no awaiting with ?’s & answers between breaks. Uncertain on release date of book 3 in series. Just hope it is soon as with many series, you need refreshing on read to reestablish storyline.
Go read it first, because the story does not slow down for a second!
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We left Bianca fleeing for her life, and the life of her unborn child.
We meet her again in a few months time, hiding from the man she loves, and the terrifying world he lives in. Fear for her child forced her to betray him, and a rival mafia boss, all so she could find a place to raise her child without the burden of their heritage.
Of course, this safety is short lived as the world she ran from catches up, and the consequences of her betrayal become clear.
But what happens next?
This is an excellent sequel to book one, with fast pace, great tension, lots of action, more betrayal and a very unexpected twist at the end - with another cliffhanger ending leaving us wanting MORE!!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG! Wow, I am loving this series, Bree Walker was kidnapped and when she married her kidnapper her name changed to Bianca Carlotti-Agosti, Carlos Rossi helped her to run now she has changed her name to Aria Lowe. Rio, his men and investigator's looked everywhere for his wife Bianca. When they find her he still calls her Little Bird, and when he has her home she is put into a jail but a luxury one with a doctor to check her. Rio and Bianca still have feelings for each other will they mend their hearts or even their relationship.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow, I didn't think things could get more tense, but boy was I wrong. I love this second story in Zoe's Dark Mafia romance. I love Bianca. Her strength. Her vulnerability. Her tumble into love for a man she has every reason to hate. And I love seeing Rio's hard, unfeeling exterior crumble when presented with the woman who finally stole his heart. The pacing in this story had me turning pages into the night until I reached the end. Now I'm chomping at the bit for part 3! Can't wait for the next installment.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thank you for this free ARC copy Zoe Delaney and Books and Bitches Down Under.
What a turn around for Bianca Carlotta. Married to Mafia Boss Rio Agosti. Bianca has gone from hiding to trying to help the family business.
Rio is trying to find out what’s going on and who’s trying to upset all of the mafia business in town. He’s trying to help Bianca work out what’s going on as well.
Can’t wait to read book 3 to find out what the cliffhanger at the end of this books ends on and if everything Rio is thinking is true and how it all happened and why Rina is after destroying all the Mafia Bosses.
Dark, passionate and sexy this second book in the Dark Enemies series is even better that the first as Bianca and Rio struggle to reconcile their love for each other against Bianca's betrayal and flight and Rio's role as the ruthless murderous head of a mafia family. Told in dual POV Zoe makes you feel the love they have for each other despite the all the reasons in doesn't make sense. Enjoyed meeting Rio's sister Angel and can't wait for the next one after that ending.
I received an ARC and all views expressed are my honest opinion.
WOW!! Like Ruthless Possession, Ruthless Betrayal will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. This book is so good. Full of suspense, deceit and betrayal. I love how Zoe has kept true to her characters and not “mellowed” them. Rio is still the ruthless Mafia Don who will not let anything or anyone stand in his way. Bianca is still the strong woman fighting for her freedom and baby.
I’m so looking forward to reading book 3, Ruthless Enemy. That cliffhanger was a doozy.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is my own opinion and was not influenced by anyone.
Aghhh...the book was so good but another cliffhanger. I was warned but the story pulled me in and I want to know what happens. The author has developed the world these characters live really well. The characters are interesting but I love the twists and action...oh and the romance. Can't wait for book 3.
Bianca, who is pregnant, escapes from Rio because she doesn't want her child to grow up the "Mafia" way. Trusting the wrong people, Bianca is found and returns to Rio. Trust issues, lies, and deception make this second book of the series well worth it. Another cliffhanger, but all will be revealed in the book three.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the 2nd book in this series and I couldn't put it down. The plot is intricate and the characters are mesmerizing. Bianca struggles with the lifestyle of the mafia. The violence and the bloodbath but she truly loves her husband rio, the top dog in the Boston area and knows she won't leave him again. The action and suspense are addicting to the reader.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed the continuation of Rio & Bianca's story. I especially enjoyed how they were able to work through their feelings & trust issues once they were reunited again.
I also did not see the cliffhanger coming. It definitely has me excited for the final book in the trilogy.
Some themes/tropes in this book are:
*Mafia *Kidnapping *Unaliving *Betrayal
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this book & this is my honest opinion.
Biana is definitely far from removed in the mafia dance. Rio clenching tightly to his empire navigates like the dark Don he is. Playing chess among checkers players, finding formidable opponents as he goes. When the unthinkable happens what will they see in their reflections? Will they be cracked and broken or will the see warriors and soldiers ready for the next move. This series is killing me in the best way with anticipation!
This is book two in the Dark Enemies series and ends on a cliffhanger. Bianca thought she could get away but she should know better than to try to run from her mob boss husband, Rio. There is an enemy out there trying to take down the mob families and it seems they really don't like Rio and plan to take Bianca from him. This is a great series so far and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens in the end in book three, Ruthless Enemy.
Oh my gods 🙈 these cliffhangers have my whole body tense.
I can't believe book 2 ended like that, my heart aches and I am left with so many questions but I know Zoe (Jen) will more than answer them with book 3.
This is full of lust, love, betrayal, anger, mystery, and power all around.
I love the morally grey MMC & FMC roles and how Bianca developed into such a badass protector while still maintaining her sharp tongue and little quips.
El's Review Scale Plot: 5 Spice: 2.5 - angsty, lusty, perfect! Characters: 4.5 - developed and loveable Overall: 5 🌟
Thank you SO much Jen for allowing me to be an arc reader for this series. 🖤👐
WOW what a book I loved it I liked how we saw the growth in the 2 MC
Favourite line from this awesome book Thank you for your hospitality Mr Martelli you have a wonderful home and I’m sure your young daughter will be very happy with the elderly grandpa you have chosen for her to marry I could Cleary picture it go Bianca !!
Thank you for this free ARC copy Zoe Delaney and B&B down under
Pregnant Bianca on the run from Rio, (her mafia husband) is betrayed. Her forced return home is to the continued unrest in the mafia empire. Love the well-developed characters and the suspense. Can't wait for the final book in the trilogy!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the next instalment in this series, and is just as engaging as the first book. Bianca has escaped from Rio, but for how long? She's under no illusion that he won't find her, but what will happen when he does?
More secrets and intrigue ending on a cliffhanger that I didn't see coming.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really liked book 1 but in book 2 I found it annoying that Bianca struggled so much with accepting her life and Rio. She loves him deeply but feels bad about Penn? that bothered me, she is over thinking too much. Can't wait for book 3 to see how it ends!!
Bianca comes back. I don't like that Rio puts her in the dungeon but get he wants her safe. Bianca can't escape the mafia life so she must embrace it. I love that Bianca is finding her voice. I can't wait to read the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Absolutely amazing! The growth between all characters is amazing. The twists and turns throughout the book is insane. I cannot wait to read the last book.
After disappearing for a time, Bianca is back with her captor/husband. She has delivered the baby, life is looking good. Until the other shoe drops. And Rio & Bianca are thrown into the madness again