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Brutal Birthright #3
מאהב אכזר
"אני אוהבת לקרוא לספר הזה, 'כשג'יימס דין פוגש את מהיר ועצבני'.
נירו הוא רודף השמלות האולטימטיבי. אבל קמיל אמיתית כל כך ועם רגליים על הקרקע, שהיא מצליחה לראות את נשמתו של החוטא.
כפי שנכתב בביקורת המועדפת עליי, 'שני אנשים שהאמינו שאינם ראויים לאהבה, עד שמצאו זה את זה'."
סופי לארק
יש סיבה שבגללה אני לא הולכת למסיבות…
ראיתי אותו מבעד למסך עשן, כמו חטא עשוי בשר ודם. מעולם לא ראיתי דבר יפה יותר, על אף החבטות והחבלות שכיסו את גופו.
כדאי שאתרחק מנירו, אלא אם כן אני שונאת את עצמי.
הוא שובר לבבות.
מחולל מהומות.
אסון מהלך.
אבל הבעיה היא שהסתבכתי עד הצוואר עם שוטר מושחת, והאדם היחיד שיכול להציל אותי הוא נירו.
אנחנו לא חברים, אבל הוא הסיכוי היחידי שיש לי.
הוא לא גיבור, הוא מאהב אכזר.
מאהב אכזר הוא הספר השלישי בסדרת המאפיה המצליחה דם אכזרי.
זהו רומן פרוע ונועז, העוקב אחר קורותיה של המאפיה בשיקגו, עומד בפני עצמו ומסתיים בסוף סגור.
הספר מכיל סצנות לוהטות ומיועד לקהל בוגר בלבד!
נירו הוא רודף השמלות האולטימטיבי. אבל קמיל אמיתית כל כך ועם רגליים על הקרקע, שהיא מצליחה לראות את נשמתו של החוטא.
כפי שנכתב בביקורת המועדפת עליי, 'שני אנשים שהאמינו שאינם ראויים לאהבה, עד שמצאו זה את זה'."
סופי לארק
יש סיבה שבגללה אני לא הולכת למסיבות…
ראיתי אותו מבעד למסך עשן, כמו חטא עשוי בשר ודם. מעולם לא ראיתי דבר יפה יותר, על אף החבטות והחבלות שכיסו את גופו.
כדאי שאתרחק מנירו, אלא אם כן אני שונאת את עצמי.
הוא שובר לבבות.
מחולל מהומות.
אסון מהלך.
אבל הבעיה היא שהסתבכתי עד הצוואר עם שוטר מושחת, והאדם היחיד שיכול להציל אותי הוא נירו.
אנחנו לא חברים, אבל הוא הסיכוי היחידי שיש לי.
הוא לא גיבור, הוא מאהב אכזר.
מאהב אכזר הוא הספר השלישי בסדרת המאפיה המצליחה דם אכזרי.
זהו רומן פרוע ונועז, העוקב אחר קורותיה של המאפיה בשיקגו, עומד בפני עצמו ומסתיים בסוף סגור.
הספר מכיל סצנות לוהטות ומיועד לקהל בוגר בלבד!
ebook
First published September 16, 2020
5818 people are currently reading
56407 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Lark
45 books23.7k followersPowerful Romance
Special Editions & Exclusive Stories:
https://sophielark.com/
Sophie lives in Southern California with her husband and three children. Her favorite authors are Emily Henry and Freida McFadden. She’s an Aquarius who loves fitness and looks forward to Halloween every year.
Special Editions & Exclusive Stories:
https://sophielark.com/
Sophie lives in Southern California with her husband and three children. Her favorite authors are Emily Henry and Freida McFadden. She’s an Aquarius who loves fitness and looks forward to Halloween every year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 6,294 reviews
September 28, 2023
This SERIES. 😭❤️🔥 i love every couple sm. i wish the stories were longer just so we could get more time with them 🥺 Camille & Nero’s story was so sweet & gave off all the fast & furious vibes 🏁 Definitely not as dark/twisted as the first two books but I kinda liked having a little break from it!
February 18, 2022
OKAY Fast & Furious vibes, i see you! This wasn’t my favorite Brutal Birthright book, but I still enjoyed it. The story was refreshing, it felt less mafia & more normal? I loved Camille, she was smart & sweet but also a boss. & idk anything about cars but i’d learn for you Nero 😮💨
Overall, it was a very calm read! Specially for a mafia series. I did expect a lil more angst & less normalcy but the story was interesting.
I’M READYYYY FOR MY BABY DANTEEEE 🥵
“The truth is that Camille isn’t my type at all. But I sort of felt like we might be becoming friends—a little bit. I kind of liked her. And I don’t like anybody. I barely like my own family. In fact, right now, I’m only 50/50 on Aida.”
Overall, it was a very calm read! Specially for a mafia series. I did expect a lil more angst & less normalcy but the story was interesting.
I’M READYYYY FOR MY BABY DANTEEEE 🥵
“The truth is that Camille isn’t my type at all. But I sort of felt like we might be becoming friends—a little bit. I kind of liked her. And I don’t like anybody. I barely like my own family. In fact, right now, I’m only 50/50 on Aida.”
September 14, 2021
4 stars
My favourite of the series - which is odd because the others had more angst, more banter, the stakes were higher, but I think this one was just wholesome which again, is a very odd thing to say of a mafia book.
I liked that the first 50% of the book was mostly plot and we slowly got to have the MCs meet and interact. Normally I’d get bored to wait that long for anything, but in this case it worked fine. I was invested in the story. That being said it could have been better.
I can’t really point out why I liked it so much because it’s not one of the best books I’ve read, it’s not a love story for ages either and it also didn’t stir that much emotion within me. God, I’m awful at writing a good review…
But despite all that, I felt like these people could be real, despite the criminal activities depicted (which I can’t say are realistic or not) the way those two were with each other and how they eventually got together was realistically random and I dug it.
I liked Camille a lot. The whole underdog vibe she’s got going, it’s for some reason what really makes me love a character. And Nero too. I think he’s probably the best character to be depicted as unstable and a bit deranged. Why? Because it wasn’t over the top. One doesn’t have to dismember bodies on a nightly basis with unprecedented glee in order to be considered a bit unhinged. Someone can be dangerous in a subtle, smart way, and I actually believe that’s more realistic than anything else.
My favourite of the series - which is odd because the others had more angst, more banter, the stakes were higher, but I think this one was just wholesome which again, is a very odd thing to say of a mafia book.
I liked that the first 50% of the book was mostly plot and we slowly got to have the MCs meet and interact. Normally I’d get bored to wait that long for anything, but in this case it worked fine. I was invested in the story. That being said it could have been better.
I can’t really point out why I liked it so much because it’s not one of the best books I’ve read, it’s not a love story for ages either and it also didn’t stir that much emotion within me. God, I’m awful at writing a good review…
But despite all that, I felt like these people could be real, despite the criminal activities depicted (which I can’t say are realistic or not) the way those two were with each other and how they eventually got together was realistically random and I dug it.
I liked Camille a lot. The whole underdog vibe she’s got going, it’s for some reason what really makes me love a character. And Nero too. I think he’s probably the best character to be depicted as unstable and a bit deranged. Why? Because it wasn’t over the top. One doesn’t have to dismember bodies on a nightly basis with unprecedented glee in order to be considered a bit unhinged. Someone can be dangerous in a subtle, smart way, and I actually believe that’s more realistic than anything else.
July 19, 2023
— 4 stars ✰
"there's nobody else, camille.
nobody who ever made me feel like this"
THE CARS THE EXCITEMENT THE THRILL
it full on gives fast & furious and i loved every second of it
NERO 👏🏼 GALLO 👏🏼
"i just smile at him, blood in my teeth"
so he‘s a total player and never ever was in a relationship. camille has far more problems to deal with than thinking about guys, especially nero. but as it comes, nero safes her a night from the cops and since then they seem to bump into each other quite often
"i lean up against the doorframe, standing close to her, because she's cute when she's nervous" 💘💞💗💕
i knew it was right to be excited about this book, there is nothing more satisfying than an anticipating read being worth it
"every emotion i ever had, my whole life through,
is nothing compared to what i feel when i look at you"
i thought it would be a bit more angsty and would have a little bit more drama since nero has been described pretty intense in the other books but i still love him & camille together and THANK YOU SOPHIE LARK FOR NOT HAVING A THIRD ACT BREAKUP👏🏼
"there's nobody else, camille.
nobody who ever made me feel like this"
THE CARS THE EXCITEMENT THE THRILL
it full on gives fast & furious and i loved every second of it
NERO 👏🏼 GALLO 👏🏼
"i just smile at him, blood in my teeth"
so he‘s a total player and never ever was in a relationship. camille has far more problems to deal with than thinking about guys, especially nero. but as it comes, nero safes her a night from the cops and since then they seem to bump into each other quite often
"i lean up against the doorframe, standing close to her, because she's cute when she's nervous" 💘💞💗💕
i knew it was right to be excited about this book, there is nothing more satisfying than an anticipating read being worth it
"every emotion i ever had, my whole life through,
is nothing compared to what i feel when i look at you"
i thought it would be a bit more angsty and would have a little bit more drama since nero has been described pretty intense in the other books but i still love him & camille together and THANK YOU SOPHIE LARK FOR NOT HAVING A THIRD ACT BREAKUP👏🏼
August 7, 2024
3 ★'s
This one took me by surprise and I am not sure how I feel about it.
I feel like I've gotten to the point in my reading where it can be quite easy to predict the plot, especially in romances. That was not the case with Savage Lover. Every time I thought I had the plot figured out it went in another direction.
This book has several interesting subplots that we follow throughout the book; family secrets, money problems, mafia schemes and projects, extortion, sickness in family, etc.
Sophie managed to include a lot in a fairly short novel, and it all tied in really well with each other.
I enjoyed following both Nero & Camille in their separate undertakings, problems and different takes on the world. I especially loved seeing Camille's dedication to her family, her little brother in particular. It was truly heartwarming to see.
Although, where Sophie dropped the ball was the romance. For lack of better word, it was just strange.
Starting off, things progressed unnaturally slow. There seemed to be no real interest, attraction or tension between the two main characters. Then suddenly things progressed unnaturally fast without really understanding what changed between them.
The mmc stated things such as "she's not my type", "she looks like shit", friend-zoning her, comparing her to other girls and stating that other girls are much better looking than her. To go from that to "I'm in love" over the span of like two kisses and a shared love for cars is not gonna do it for me (fyi first kiss only occurred bc he wanted her to shut up:)).
I'm sorry to say it, but Nero Gallo definitely gives off cheater vibes ngl.(I can already see how he buys her something really expensive in apology.)
To actually only judge by the contents of the book, this wasn't horrible. The romance definitely needs development, but the plot kept me intrigued, wanting answers and see how things were wrapped up - and it was an overall nice ending.
this review was written on a lack of sleep so ignore any possible grammar mistakes, please and thank you, love yaaaa<3
______
⌞Pre-read:⌝
You had me at "neighborhood psychopath".
This series has been a bit hit or miss so far, but I've liked following the chicago mafia families so keeping my hopes up for this one? Can't go wrong with a psycho mmc right?
This one took me by surprise and I am not sure how I feel about it.
I feel like I've gotten to the point in my reading where it can be quite easy to predict the plot, especially in romances. That was not the case with Savage Lover. Every time I thought I had the plot figured out it went in another direction.
This book has several interesting subplots that we follow throughout the book; family secrets, money problems, mafia schemes and projects, extortion, sickness in family, etc.
Sophie managed to include a lot in a fairly short novel, and it all tied in really well with each other.
I enjoyed following both Nero & Camille in their separate undertakings, problems and different takes on the world. I especially loved seeing Camille's dedication to her family, her little brother in particular. It was truly heartwarming to see.
Although, where Sophie dropped the ball was the romance. For lack of better word, it was just strange.
Starting off, things progressed unnaturally slow. There seemed to be no real interest, attraction or tension between the two main characters. Then suddenly things progressed unnaturally fast without really understanding what changed between them.
The mmc stated things such as "she's not my type", "she looks like shit", friend-zoning her, comparing her to other girls and stating that other girls are much better looking than her. To go from that to "I'm in love" over the span of like two kisses and a shared love for cars is not gonna do it for me (fyi first kiss only occurred bc he wanted her to shut up:)).
I'm sorry to say it, but Nero Gallo definitely gives off cheater vibes ngl.
To actually only judge by the contents of the book, this wasn't horrible. The romance definitely needs development, but the plot kept me intrigued, wanting answers and see how things were wrapped up - and it was an overall nice ending.
this review was written on a lack of sleep so ignore any possible grammar mistakes, please and thank you, love yaaaa<3
______
⌞Pre-read:⌝
You had me at "neighborhood psychopath".
This series has been a bit hit or miss so far, but I've liked following the chicago mafia families so keeping my hopes up for this one? Can't go wrong with a psycho mmc right?
March 12, 2022
2.5 stars
I love Sophie Lark so so much, but this book, unfortunately, was such a miss for me. From the start, this book felt very high school and not mafia at all. I liked Camille as a heroine, but both Camille and Nero still very young and juvenile in their interactions and daily lives. Camille was working with her father and making sure her brother graduated and had a bright future. In their free time, though, they would go to parties and hang out around people they went to high school with who still acted like they were in high school. I didn't love the vibes of this book and didn't really care for the plot. As a mafia series, this book also had no mafia content. Nero is from a mafia family, but his plot revolved around him trying to rob a bank for fun. That's really it. They fell for each other after they spend more time with each other, but I just found myself not caring about them. I wasn't swooning or dying for them to get tighter; I just didn't care. This was a definite weak spot in this series, but I'm hoping the rest of the series is better!
I love Sophie Lark so so much, but this book, unfortunately, was such a miss for me. From the start, this book felt very high school and not mafia at all. I liked Camille as a heroine, but both Camille and Nero still very young and juvenile in their interactions and daily lives. Camille was working with her father and making sure her brother graduated and had a bright future. In their free time, though, they would go to parties and hang out around people they went to high school with who still acted like they were in high school. I didn't love the vibes of this book and didn't really care for the plot. As a mafia series, this book also had no mafia content. Nero is from a mafia family, but his plot revolved around him trying to rob a bank for fun. That's really it. They fell for each other after they spend more time with each other, but I just found myself not caring about them. I wasn't swooning or dying for them to get tighter; I just didn't care. This was a definite weak spot in this series, but I'm hoping the rest of the series is better!
June 27, 2023
This was my least favorite. I guess I just hyped Nero too much in my brain. Actually no, it’s that everyone in the first two books hyped him too much that I expected some manic angry man running around screwing girls, burning buildings, and killing people. And what we got though is a sweet bad boy?? Idk he just didn’t give what he promised.
This is NA mafia series, so I know what I was getting into, but this book is where it really felt like it was more of a NA romance (high school like romance) and less of a mafia one. It’s just a typical bad boy falling in love with a girl and it’s their romance with a few action that wasn’t really as fun as the first two ones. Their romance didn’t develop at all. I wanted more!
I know it seems like I’m hating this series, but I don’t. I just got some issues with it, but it’s still a kinda enjoyable quick read. Im actually excited for Dante’s book, but I’m trying not to put a lot of expectations.
#1 Brutal prince ~ 3 stars
#2 Stolen heir ~ 3 stars
#3 Savage lovers ~ 2.75 stars
This is NA mafia series, so I know what I was getting into, but this book is where it really felt like it was more of a NA romance (high school like romance) and less of a mafia one. It’s just a typical bad boy falling in love with a girl and it’s their romance with a few action that wasn’t really as fun as the first two ones. Their romance didn’t develop at all. I wanted more!
I know it seems like I’m hating this series, but I don’t. I just got some issues with it, but it’s still a kinda enjoyable quick read. Im actually excited for Dante’s book, but I’m trying not to put a lot of expectations.
#1 Brutal prince ~ 3 stars
#2 Stolen heir ~ 3 stars
#3 Savage lovers ~ 2.75 stars
September 22, 2020
3 STARS
I've been eyeing this author for way too long and when I saw the blurb to this book, I knew this would be my first Sophie Lark book. And while I can't say I loved it, the story did hook me on her writing and this series. I'm invested enough to want to read the previous two books and continue with all the future ones in this series.
Let's start with what I enjoyed. The writing was engaging and the story was fast paced. I was immediately hooked on both the story and the characters. Camille is a great heroine in an entirely unconventional way. She's the black sheep and just trying to put her brother through high school who fell in with the wrong crowd. She's a talented mechanic and constantly in her dirty coveralls and used to being overlooked by men...until Nero. Nero was an intriguing character himself. He seemed complex and deliciously mysterious.
So why three stars? A few reasons, the first of which is consistency. Nero goes from one extreme to another in the span of one blink. I just didn't connect with the fast fall he had with Camille. He's supposed to be the epitome of a bad boy and completely anti-relationships so his fast track to feelings for Camille seemed too fast to me. I also didn't feel the bully aspect. Nero wasn't a bully. Not to Camille anyway. He's the bad boy of a mafia family, but there was no bully element in this story for me. I also didn't connect to the entire robbery plot line. It seemed underdeveloped and grazed over in the end. I also struggled to fully buy into Camille and Nero's connection because it just seemed to go from 0 to 60 in the span of a few pages. There was all this build up and then it sort of fell flat in the end for me.
But my quibbles aside, this still had me turning the pages well into the night and invested enough to want to read the rest of the series. While I didn't love it, I didn't dislike it. I enjoyed it, it just didn't blow me away. Would I recommend this for bad boy mafia lovers? Absolutely. Will I be reading future books from Miss Lark? You bet.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
He’s always going to have two sides of him: the side that’s dark and vengeful. But also a side unearthly in its beauty.
I've been eyeing this author for way too long and when I saw the blurb to this book, I knew this would be my first Sophie Lark book. And while I can't say I loved it, the story did hook me on her writing and this series. I'm invested enough to want to read the previous two books and continue with all the future ones in this series.
Let's start with what I enjoyed. The writing was engaging and the story was fast paced. I was immediately hooked on both the story and the characters. Camille is a great heroine in an entirely unconventional way. She's the black sheep and just trying to put her brother through high school who fell in with the wrong crowd. She's a talented mechanic and constantly in her dirty coveralls and used to being overlooked by men...until Nero. Nero was an intriguing character himself. He seemed complex and deliciously mysterious.
So why three stars? A few reasons, the first of which is consistency. Nero goes from one extreme to another in the span of one blink. I just didn't connect with the fast fall he had with Camille. He's supposed to be the epitome of a bad boy and completely anti-relationships so his fast track to feelings for Camille seemed too fast to me. I also didn't feel the bully aspect. Nero wasn't a bully. Not to Camille anyway. He's the bad boy of a mafia family, but there was no bully element in this story for me. I also didn't connect to the entire robbery plot line. It seemed underdeveloped and grazed over in the end. I also struggled to fully buy into Camille and Nero's connection because it just seemed to go from 0 to 60 in the span of a few pages. There was all this build up and then it sort of fell flat in the end for me.
But my quibbles aside, this still had me turning the pages well into the night and invested enough to want to read the rest of the series. While I didn't love it, I didn't dislike it. I enjoyed it, it just didn't blow me away. Would I recommend this for bad boy mafia lovers? Absolutely. Will I be reading future books from Miss Lark? You bet.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
January 8, 2022
If you’re anything like me, after reading the previous two books you’d expect Nero to be more angry.
If you expect the angst, the lack of control and the fire don’t come near this one.
But if you want a bit more of a plot, a softening Nero, a witty heroine who has brains and kind of a slowburn then come kitty, kitty, kitty, because this one’s for you ❤️
If you expect the angst, the lack of control and the fire don’t come near this one.
But if you want a bit more of a plot, a softening Nero, a witty heroine who has brains and kind of a slowburn then come kitty, kitty, kitty, because this one’s for you ❤️
November 17, 2022
4.5 ~ nero could hit me with his mustang and i’d get right back up and ask him to do it again 😁
August 14, 2021
3.5 🌟
This took a while to get invested in. I wasn’t the biggest fan of the first half of the story. The plot overtook the story and I felt that there wasn’t enough focus on the characters and their romance. I wish there was a better buildup and a better balance between the plot and the romance.
But once the emotional development of both characters started to kick in, the story fell into place for me. Once they got together, things got so, so good. They made sense. The plot became more interesting too.
Sophie Lark knows how to write chemistry really well. As well as action scenes. I just wish we had more scenes of them together, moments in between all the shit Camille was going through and what Nero was facing. He needed a more well-rounded character arc too.
There was room for more. And you can tell my main selling point of any story, not just romance only, is a good character arc.
I do love the world that has been created though and I can’t wait to see how all of it will come together. These stories are easy to get through and immersive. I’m especially excited for Dante’s and Sebastian’s story.
Buddy-read with Dani (who I’m most likely binge-reading this series with 😆).
This took a while to get invested in. I wasn’t the biggest fan of the first half of the story. The plot overtook the story and I felt that there wasn’t enough focus on the characters and their romance. I wish there was a better buildup and a better balance between the plot and the romance.
But once the emotional development of both characters started to kick in, the story fell into place for me. Once they got together, things got so, so good. They made sense. The plot became more interesting too.
Sophie Lark knows how to write chemistry really well. As well as action scenes. I just wish we had more scenes of them together, moments in between all the shit Camille was going through and what Nero was facing. He needed a more well-rounded character arc too.
There was room for more. And you can tell my main selling point of any story, not just romance only, is a good character arc.
I do love the world that has been created though and I can’t wait to see how all of it will come together. These stories are easy to get through and immersive. I’m especially excited for Dante’s and Sebastian’s story.
Buddy-read with Dani (who I’m most likely binge-reading this series with 😆).
April 27, 2024
3.5 ⭐️'s
November 23, 2025
Okay I see here that I lot people didn’t fall for Nero and Camille but I am not people, I did and I think they are the most compatible couple in the series as it right now.
I love how she was a nobody compared to him but she is prideful and doesn’t take shit. I love how she is a hard worker and gets so tangled In shenanigans but doesn’t let the ball drop. I love that Nero the ICE KING that never even kiss the same woman twice is actually truly infatuated with her realness. He sees what she likes and what she does because it’s the same things he likes and do.
I like that she didn’t bullshit around and I like that there’s no miscommunication, she tells him right away about the cop and they fix it together. I love the bank robbery and I love that Sebastian is helping Nero. I was upset that Dante wasn’t but than he obviously shows up and saves the night (my baby)
If I was the type of person that rates books by writing complexity and plots and etc… I would probably rated lower than 5 ⭐️ because I would’ve liked to see more development in their relationship and I would’ve loved to see more details of them working in the robbery because that is cool. The second book shows more of that side. This one wasn’t super romantic nor it was spice, but their relationship was relatable and since I rate books by the vibe and how it made me feel I give this one 5⭐️
I love how she was a nobody compared to him but she is prideful and doesn’t take shit. I love how she is a hard worker and gets so tangled In shenanigans but doesn’t let the ball drop. I love that Nero the ICE KING that never even kiss the same woman twice is actually truly infatuated with her realness. He sees what she likes and what she does because it’s the same things he likes and do.
I like that she didn’t bullshit around and I like that there’s no miscommunication, she tells him right away about the cop and they fix it together. I love the bank robbery and I love that Sebastian is helping Nero. I was upset that Dante wasn’t but than he obviously shows up and saves the night (my baby)
If I was the type of person that rates books by writing complexity and plots and etc… I would probably rated lower than 5 ⭐️ because I would’ve liked to see more development in their relationship and I would’ve loved to see more details of them working in the robbery because that is cool. The second book shows more of that side. This one wasn’t super romantic nor it was spice, but their relationship was relatable and since I rate books by the vibe and how it made me feel I give this one 5⭐️
May 30, 2024
4.45 stars ★
Stop obsessing over Culpa Mia and pick this book up; trust me, it'd give the movie a run for it's money (can't speak for the book cause I haven't read it). You might not get the bad boy hot stepbrother Nicholas, but Nero over here can flip it both ways and keep you turning pages.
──» How would you like to see a downtown machanic and an illegal street racer hashtag the crime pridogy, diving head first into love through unexpected circumstances? Then I'd say you picked up the right book—perfect for the fans of Fast and Furious. I would blindly pick up Nero's book and know for certain that it'd be an epic ride.
Thrill chaser MMC? Check. Rich people drama? Check. Badass FMC? Check. I hate everyone but you trope? Check. Crime, suspense, intrigue and a will they won't they kind of romance? Check, check & check. I love a wholesome bad boy x good girl trope where the good girl isn't really the good girl and the bad boy isn't really that bad set in the mafia world with some police involvement thrown in it.
Sypnosis: Camille Rivera never fancied herself in the rich people crowd around her, running her father's motor shop and raising her little brother were all she worked for her whole life. Finding out about her father's sickness and brother's involvement with drugs, she finds herself in a difficult situation she doesn't know how to get out of. Things get way more complicated as a local cop gives her a dangerous offer in exchange for her brother's safety. To hold the end of the offer, she is forced into the crowd she once detested. In all this mess, Nero Gallo is the last person she should associate with but she realizes he is probably the only one who could help her; as their paths cross more often, she starts to wonder if she is asking for more than he could give.
Playlist:-
・Do I wanna know? > Arctic Monkeys
・Gasolina > Daddy Yankee
・Like a rockstar > Chase Atlantic
・Starboy > The Weekend
・Brooklyn baby > Lana Del Rey
Camille Rivera
-Before I start to express my wider than the sky, deeper than the ocean love for my baby Camille, I'd like to make a formal apology to Nero. He might have walked out of our wildest badboy fantasy and have a perfect score on every ceteria but Camille freaking Rivera just makes me feel things; she got me drawing tiny little hearts on my notebook. There's something about Camille in her work overalls, covered in diesel and bent over a fancy car, messing with the engine; it's too damn captivating, I need a front-row seat to that and my life would be complete.
-The strong urge to tune in gasolina on max volume when she hits the road and shows people who the queen is—it's no joke. I'm one hundred percent convinced she owns that song. She's a total vibe and she knows it; on top of that, she's an absolute sweetheart. Camille is usually the fire extinguisher who keeps herself and other people around her out of trouble but when it comes to her beloved ones, she would go from selling drugs to making bad bargains with up to no good police officers. Though I'm sure her definition of trouble is different since she hands over her heart to Nero, the trouble himself.
Nero Gallo
-Finally, the awaited one arrives! Nero had my heart in a chokehold from the very first book in the series. His all-too-similar personality to Aida—which is to say, borderline crazy, a bit psychotic to be exact—ticked it off in my favor. For all I know, they could have been literal twins. He's impulsive, has serious anger issues, would likely run you over for breathing wrong in his direction, lives on the thrill of chasing trouble and near-death experiences to the other end of the world with his sports cars.
-He is so used to being treated like royalty for his family's notorious reputation that when Camille dearest flips him off and calls him on his bullshit, (since they lived in the same neighbourhood all their lives and attended the same high school, she literally saw him stepping on people and breaking hearts like he's on pokemon go) it makes him want to do everything to break her pride. She riles him up and puts him on edge like no one else, and he finds himself wanting a bit more of her fierceness directed at him every day. He went from hating her to adoring the hell out of her (it's okay, we get you dude. on camille fanclub for life). Might be surprising but he has a big soft spot for his family, the Gallo sibiling moments were honestly heartwarming.
──» Normal couples would go on dates, hold each other's hands, share stolen kisses and secret smiles when they think no one's looking, drive each other home and all those sweet stuffs. Count on Nero and Camille to do it all backwards and make things over the top as always. The only driving around they do is with police cars chasing behind; the only dates they go on are at each other's workshop aka garage to simp over cars and it's machanisms; the only kisses they share are aggressive, 'I hate what you are making me feel' kind; the only secrets they share are of their past traumas. They would bond over their hatred for pick me girls and vintage cars, fall in love while planning big scaled bank robbery. There's also the shit load of confusion and endless mutual pining that follows a mild slow burn. I loved that it wasn't instant love or attraction for them, it had a decent amount of build up before we reached the 'burn bright' attraction. Either way, it was fun to witness.
This book didn't really have all that mafia vibes; in my opinion, it felt more like a college/ university romance, bad boys and bad decesions over one disastrous summer vacation. No complaints, cause even without the mafia mess, the major plot did so well. I was looking forward to Nero and Camille's story for quite sometime and I'm glad this book didn't let me down on my favorite couple. The theme and storyline both were equally interesting. Hands down, best book in the series so far.
“You said you weren’t anybody’s favorite.”
“No, probably not.”
“You’re MY favorite. You’re my favorite person in the world.”
Stop obsessing over Culpa Mia and pick this book up; trust me, it'd give the movie a run for it's money (can't speak for the book cause I haven't read it). You might not get the bad boy hot stepbrother Nicholas, but Nero over here can flip it both ways and keep you turning pages.
──» How would you like to see a downtown machanic and an illegal street racer hashtag the crime pridogy, diving head first into love through unexpected circumstances? Then I'd say you picked up the right book—perfect for the fans of Fast and Furious. I would blindly pick up Nero's book and know for certain that it'd be an epic ride.
Thrill chaser MMC? Check. Rich people drama? Check. Badass FMC? Check. I hate everyone but you trope? Check. Crime, suspense, intrigue and a will they won't they kind of romance? Check, check & check. I love a wholesome bad boy x good girl trope where the good girl isn't really the good girl and the bad boy isn't really that bad set in the mafia world with some police involvement thrown in it.
Sypnosis: Camille Rivera never fancied herself in the rich people crowd around her, running her father's motor shop and raising her little brother were all she worked for her whole life. Finding out about her father's sickness and brother's involvement with drugs, she finds herself in a difficult situation she doesn't know how to get out of. Things get way more complicated as a local cop gives her a dangerous offer in exchange for her brother's safety. To hold the end of the offer, she is forced into the crowd she once detested. In all this mess, Nero Gallo is the last person she should associate with but she realizes he is probably the only one who could help her; as their paths cross more often, she starts to wonder if she is asking for more than he could give.
Playlist:-
・Do I wanna know? > Arctic Monkeys
・Gasolina > Daddy Yankee
・Like a rockstar > Chase Atlantic
・Starboy > The Weekend
・Brooklyn baby > Lana Del Rey
Camille Rivera
➴ He turns those eyes on me, sparing a glance from the road. It feels like a spike driving into my chest. For just a second, I wish that I were beautiful, so he’d want to look at me the way I’m looking at him.
➴ He’s touching me the way he’d touch a car engine—with a desire to fix it. He diagnosed me, and he’s making me run smooth again.
➴ I know how strongly he hates—I can only imagine the kind of love he feels. It terrifies me.
➴ He’s always going to have two sides of him: the side that’s dark and vengeful. But also a side unearthly in its beauty.
➴ I love you so much it hurts. I’m scared to tell you, scared to even let myself feel it. But I love you, and I have for a while.
-Before I start to express my wider than the sky, deeper than the ocean love for my baby Camille, I'd like to make a formal apology to Nero. He might have walked out of our wildest badboy fantasy and have a perfect score on every ceteria but Camille freaking Rivera just makes me feel things; she got me drawing tiny little hearts on my notebook. There's something about Camille in her work overalls, covered in diesel and bent over a fancy car, messing with the engine; it's too damn captivating, I need a front-row seat to that and my life would be complete.
-The strong urge to tune in gasolina on max volume when she hits the road and shows people who the queen is—it's no joke. I'm one hundred percent convinced she owns that song. She's a total vibe and she knows it; on top of that, she's an absolute sweetheart. Camille is usually the fire extinguisher who keeps herself and other people around her out of trouble but when it comes to her beloved ones, she would go from selling drugs to making bad bargains with up to no good police officers. Though I'm sure her definition of trouble is different since she hands over her heart to Nero, the trouble himself.
Nero Gallo
➴ I’ll do whatever it takes to protect her. I’d take down the whole Chicago PD if I had to. I’d murder every man in this city, one by one.
➴ I want Camille like I’ve never wanted anything in my life. I want her to love me. She’s the only one who knows me, so she’s the only one who can. And I want to love her.
➴ I’ve always felt things . . . intensely. Or I thought I did. But every emotion I ever had, my whole life through, is nothing compared to what I feel when I look at you. Next to you, all those other things just fade away.
➴ I won’t ever leave you. You’ll never have to wonder where I went. I’ll be right by your side.
-Finally, the awaited one arrives! Nero had my heart in a chokehold from the very first book in the series. His all-too-similar personality to Aida—which is to say, borderline crazy, a bit psychotic to be exact—ticked it off in my favor. For all I know, they could have been literal twins. He's impulsive, has serious anger issues, would likely run you over for breathing wrong in his direction, lives on the thrill of chasing trouble and near-death experiences to the other end of the world with his sports cars.
-He is so used to being treated like royalty for his family's notorious reputation that when Camille dearest flips him off and calls him on his bullshit, (since they lived in the same neighbourhood all their lives and attended the same high school, she literally saw him stepping on people and breaking hearts like he's on pokemon go) it makes him want to do everything to break her pride. She riles him up and puts him on edge like no one else, and he finds himself wanting a bit more of her fierceness directed at him every day. He went from hating her to adoring the hell out of her (it's okay, we get you dude. on camille fanclub for life). Might be surprising but he has a big soft spot for his family, the Gallo sibiling moments were honestly heartwarming.
──» Normal couples would go on dates, hold each other's hands, share stolen kisses and secret smiles when they think no one's looking, drive each other home and all those sweet stuffs. Count on Nero and Camille to do it all backwards and make things over the top as always. The only driving around they do is with police cars chasing behind; the only dates they go on are at each other's workshop aka garage to simp over cars and it's machanisms; the only kisses they share are aggressive, 'I hate what you are making me feel' kind; the only secrets they share are of their past traumas. They would bond over their hatred for pick me girls and vintage cars, fall in love while planning big scaled bank robbery. There's also the shit load of confusion and endless mutual pining that follows a mild slow burn. I loved that it wasn't instant love or attraction for them, it had a decent amount of build up before we reached the 'burn bright' attraction. Either way, it was fun to witness.
This book didn't really have all that mafia vibes; in my opinion, it felt more like a college/ university romance, bad boys and bad decesions over one disastrous summer vacation. No complaints, cause even without the mafia mess, the major plot did so well. I was looking forward to Nero and Camille's story for quite sometime and I'm glad this book didn't let me down on my favorite couple. The theme and storyline both were equally interesting. Hands down, best book in the series so far.
Read
December 6, 2020I like to call Savage Lover my “James Dean meets Fast and the Furious” novel. Nero is the ultimate Lothario. But Camille is so genuine and down-to-earth that she finds the soul inside the sinner. As my favorite review said, it’s “two people who believed they were unworthy of love, until they met each other”.
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Brutal Birthright Series
geni.us/brutalbirthright
Join the Love Lark Letter:
https://sophielark.com/signup/
Brutal Birthright Series
geni.us/brutalbirthright
January 29, 2022
412 PAGES!? and for WHAT?
lmao this was the only good part of the book and it wasn't even between the main characters😂😭
“Patricia! Baby! Why don’t you pick up your phone?” he cries. “I called you eight hundred times. Listen, I’m telling you, baby, I never cheated on you . . .”
“I know that,” Patricia says calmly.
“You know . . .” He stares at her. “If you know that . . . then why . . . in the fuck . . . did you key my CAR!?” he shouts.
“BECAUSE YOU LEFT MY GRANDMOTHER AT THE AIRPORT!” Patricia bellows back at him. “You said you were going to pick her up while I was at work! She waited THREE HOURS, MASON! That woman is eighty-seven years old! She saw the Hindenburg explode. Actually, she heard it—BECAUSE THERE WAS NO FUCKING TV!”
Mason is standing there frozen, with a guilty grimace on his face. He definitely forgot all about Patricia’s grandma until right this very moment. “Okay, okay,” he says, holding up his hands. “I might have fallen asleep—”
“ASLEEP?”
“But you didn’t have to key my car, baby! It’s a classic!”
“Nana’s a classic, Mason! NANA!”
lmao this was the only good part of the book and it wasn't even between the main characters😂😭
“Patricia! Baby! Why don’t you pick up your phone?” he cries. “I called you eight hundred times. Listen, I’m telling you, baby, I never cheated on you . . .”
“I know that,” Patricia says calmly.
“You know . . .” He stares at her. “If you know that . . . then why . . . in the fuck . . . did you key my CAR!?” he shouts.
“BECAUSE YOU LEFT MY GRANDMOTHER AT THE AIRPORT!” Patricia bellows back at him. “You said you were going to pick her up while I was at work! She waited THREE HOURS, MASON! That woman is eighty-seven years old! She saw the Hindenburg explode. Actually, she heard it—BECAUSE THERE WAS NO FUCKING TV!”
Mason is standing there frozen, with a guilty grimace on his face. He definitely forgot all about Patricia’s grandma until right this very moment. “Okay, okay,” he says, holding up his hands. “I might have fallen asleep—”
“ASLEEP?”
“But you didn’t have to key my car, baby! It’s a classic!”
“Nana’s a classic, Mason! NANA!”
June 18, 2021
The story and plot was good but the words felt so forced on the pages. I could barely feel connected with the characters.
March 1, 2021
Savage Lover is more like Ocean Twelve and Bonnie and Clyde. Miss Lark wants her reader to feel the adventure, the rebel, and the romance.
At the end of the story, I enjoyed Savage Lover OK. Not bad and not impressive either. I still like Stolen Heir better. I also want to see more chemistry between Nero and Camille much more. It seems the majority of this book, they both develop their character apart.
Anyway, OK read.
3 stars
At the end of the story, I enjoyed Savage Lover OK. Not bad and not impressive either. I still like Stolen Heir better. I also want to see more chemistry between Nero and Camille much more. It seems the majority of this book, they both develop their character apart.
Anyway, OK read.
3 stars
January 1, 2022
Last book of the year… it was alright. The plot was extremely boring and Nero went from being a “badass” to being in love and a completely ‘changed man’ in the span of a few pages. Overall, it was meh.
September 10, 2021
3.75 stars ⭐️
Not a bad instalment in this series, but certainly not my favorite.
The potential for a great love story was there for me due to their interest in cars, but I wasn't getting enough scenes of just them getting to know each other. For the first half, they're always apart and talking to a lot of side characters to build the plot.
Also, personal preference: but I like a lot of moments between a couple building an emotional connection before they actually become official, and there were only two major scenes where they bonded.
There was also the lack of 'proper' mafia business going on, except a heist. It's a lot of ex-high school rival drama and espionage for both Nero and Camille for the first half of the book, which wasn't too engaging to me. The plot definitely overshadowed the romance at the beginning.
BUT I did like it a lot better once they got together! They fit together so well. With the shit they both were going through, I loved that they really helped and protected each other in their own ways. Just wished that the romance was more developed.
I did love the 🚗 scenes if you know what I mean 👀.
Also, getting a vintage, custom mod, hot-rod as a gift??
My future S.O. better take notes.
~Buddy read with Warda!~
Not a bad instalment in this series, but certainly not my favorite.
The potential for a great love story was there for me due to their interest in cars, but I wasn't getting enough scenes of just them getting to know each other. For the first half, they're always apart and talking to a lot of side characters to build the plot.
Also, personal preference: but I like a lot of moments between a couple building an emotional connection before they actually become official, and there were only two major scenes where they bonded.
There was also the lack of 'proper' mafia business going on, except a heist. It's a lot of ex-high school rival drama and espionage for both Nero and Camille for the first half of the book, which wasn't too engaging to me. The plot definitely overshadowed the romance at the beginning.
BUT I did like it a lot better once they got together! They fit together so well. With the shit they both were going through, I loved that they really helped and protected each other in their own ways. Just wished that the romance was more developed.
I did love the 🚗 scenes if you know what I mean 👀.
Also, getting a vintage, custom mod, hot-rod as a gift??
My future S.O. better take notes.
~Buddy read with Warda!~
April 15, 2023
Sophie Lark has been pretty disappointing so far, who'd have thought that the first book in the series would end up being the best one? Not me.
I decided to give this series another chance, even after how bad the second book was, because Nero is my favourite character. But make no mistake, he was never a favourite character in a "I'd care if he was killed off" way, more like "he seems interesting because he wears a leather jacket" way.
So I read most of this book a couple of days ago and it was so dull that I couldn't bring myself to pick it up again until now. And even today I honestly didn't want to read it, but I do want it off my currently reading shelf so I pushed through.
Nothing much happened in the last 35% either. There was a heist though, but that's it.
I don't really have anything to say about Nero. If you asked me if he was still my fav I'd probably say yes, but just because he sucks a tiny bit less than every other character.
As for Camille, she was so unremarkable that I forgot her name, and then when I opened the book again I was like "wait, who's Camille?".
Every love story so far has been unbelievable, but this one takes the cake. Their first and second kiss came out of nowhere, and they saw each other only a few times before falling in love. They had no chemistry, despite being so similar/having similar interests.
Also I realised something, now that I'm halfway through this series. The side characters seem interesting when they're in the background, but when they get their own story they're just...not. Exhibit A - Nessa, exhibit B - Nero. And I don't want to see Dante or Seb ruined by reading their own books so I won't. I'm stopping here.
I do want to read There are No Saints still because I've wanted to read it longer than I have this series. If that's bad too then I'll part ways with Sophie Lark for good.
I decided to give this series another chance, even after how bad the second book was, because Nero is my favourite character. But make no mistake, he was never a favourite character in a "I'd care if he was killed off" way, more like "he seems interesting because he wears a leather jacket" way.
So I read most of this book a couple of days ago and it was so dull that I couldn't bring myself to pick it up again until now. And even today I honestly didn't want to read it, but I do want it off my currently reading shelf so I pushed through.
Nothing much happened in the last 35% either. There was a heist though, but that's it.
I don't really have anything to say about Nero. If you asked me if he was still my fav I'd probably say yes, but just because he sucks a tiny bit less than every other character.
As for Camille, she was so unremarkable that I forgot her name, and then when I opened the book again I was like "wait, who's Camille?".
Every love story so far has been unbelievable, but this one takes the cake. Their first and second kiss came out of nowhere, and they saw each other only a few times before falling in love. They had no chemistry, despite being so similar/having similar interests.
Also I realised something, now that I'm halfway through this series. The side characters seem interesting when they're in the background, but when they get their own story they're just...not. Exhibit A - Nessa, exhibit B - Nero. And I don't want to see Dante or Seb ruined by reading their own books so I won't. I'm stopping here.
I do want to read There are No Saints still because I've wanted to read it longer than I have this series. If that's bad too then I'll part ways with Sophie Lark for good.
February 23, 2022
I have been WAITING for Nero’s book and I am happy to say it did not disappoint. I absolutely fell in love with him and Camille. Their dynamic was everything and I loved how vulnerable they were with each other. ALSO their love confession was simply amazing. These two were quite literally made for each other!
“You’ll never have to wonder where I went. I’ll be right by your side.” 💛
“You’ll never have to wonder where I went. I’ll be right by your side.” 💛
June 24, 2023
♾️⭐️
“I won’t ever leave you,” Nero says. “Never, Camille. You’ll never have to wonder where I went. I’ll be right by your side.”
(the sentiment behind that quote is everything🥹)
my fast and furious obsession definitely came out while I was reading this book it gave me MAJOR fast and furious vibes (cars, racing, police chase, AND romance ughhh “chefs kiss”😮💨.
Everything about this was perfect and basically everything I love in a book. protective and possessive mmc, a strong fmc, mafia, good smut, an amazing exciting plot that kept me thoroughly hooked, AND NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP🫶🏾. Everything about Nero and Camille screamed hot and sexy, their bond and chemistry was sooo good you could really tell they were made for each other , I loved them so much. The vibe of this book was unbeatable, put cars and romance together and you get utter perfection. this has easily become one of my all time favourite books ever!!!
I loved Camille, she was such an amazing fmc. The way she didn’t care what people thought about her and did everything she could to make sure her loved ones were taken care off no matter what was everything. She is a badass mechanic and I absolutely love her
Nero is so fucking sexy OMG, if i had to describe the perfect “bad boy” i’m describing Nero MF Gallo 100%. The way he’s described by literally everybody as drop dead gorgeous… I’m so unhealthy obsessed with him. He basically hated everybody except Camille and I ate that up😭. His backstory really made me feel for his character, I was routing for him the entire time. His development was also perfect
*some of my fav quotes/moments: *
I lean up against the doorframe, standing close to her, because she’s cute when she’s nervous.
“I don’t ever want you to be jealous,” I tell her. “There’s nobody else, Camille. Nobody who ever made me feel like this.”
“I know I’ve got an awful history and honestly, I’m not much better now. My temper is shit. I want to kill any man that looks at you. I’m not . . . good with words, or feelings,” he takes a deep breath and I realize that Nero is nervous—almost as nervous as I am. “But I love you, Camille. I’ll never hurt you. You can trust me for that, if nothing else.”
“Do you remember the first time I came to your house?” I ask him. “Of course.” “You said you weren’t anybody’s favorite.” He shrugs. “No, probably not.” “You’re MY favorite,” I tell him. “You’re my favorite person in the world.” He looks over at me, a slow smile spreading across his face.
anyways I think I’ve made my point don’t walk but runnnn and start this series it’s amazing and Sophie Lark is a genius.
“I won’t ever leave you,” Nero says. “Never, Camille. You’ll never have to wonder where I went. I’ll be right by your side.”
(the sentiment behind that quote is everything🥹)
my fast and furious obsession definitely came out while I was reading this book it gave me MAJOR fast and furious vibes (cars, racing, police chase, AND romance ughhh “chefs kiss”😮💨.
Everything about this was perfect and basically everything I love in a book. protective and possessive mmc, a strong fmc, mafia, good smut, an amazing exciting plot that kept me thoroughly hooked, AND NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP🫶🏾. Everything about Nero and Camille screamed hot and sexy, their bond and chemistry was sooo good you could really tell they were made for each other , I loved them so much. The vibe of this book was unbeatable, put cars and romance together and you get utter perfection. this has easily become one of my all time favourite books ever!!!
I loved Camille, she was such an amazing fmc. The way she didn’t care what people thought about her and did everything she could to make sure her loved ones were taken care off no matter what was everything. She is a badass mechanic and I absolutely love her
Nero is so fucking sexy OMG, if i had to describe the perfect “bad boy” i’m describing Nero MF Gallo 100%. The way he’s described by literally everybody as drop dead gorgeous… I’m so unhealthy obsessed with him. He basically hated everybody except Camille and I ate that up😭. His backstory really made me feel for his character, I was routing for him the entire time. His development was also perfect
*some of my fav quotes/moments: *
I lean up against the doorframe, standing close to her, because she’s cute when she’s nervous.
“I don’t ever want you to be jealous,” I tell her. “There’s nobody else, Camille. Nobody who ever made me feel like this.”
“I know I’ve got an awful history and honestly, I’m not much better now. My temper is shit. I want to kill any man that looks at you. I’m not . . . good with words, or feelings,” he takes a deep breath and I realize that Nero is nervous—almost as nervous as I am. “But I love you, Camille. I’ll never hurt you. You can trust me for that, if nothing else.”
“Do you remember the first time I came to your house?” I ask him. “Of course.” “You said you weren’t anybody’s favorite.” He shrugs. “No, probably not.” “You’re MY favorite,” I tell him. “You’re my favorite person in the world.” He looks over at me, a slow smile spreading across his face.
anyways I think I’ve made my point don’t walk but runnnn and start this series it’s amazing and Sophie Lark is a genius.
October 6, 2021
"He’s like a walking weapon—violent, unpredictable, wreaking destruction on whatever he touches."
Mafia Bad Boy and Sassy Mechanic? YES.
Heist subplot? HECK YES.
Nero Gallo is bad boy extraordinaire. He is the most volatile of the Gallo siblings and has a notorious reputation. He has known Camille since high school but only now takes a second glance at her. He finds her love of cars sexy as hell and quickly finds himself falling for her-and it freaks him out. He is also determined to prove himself to his family, he wants to show that he is more than just a loose cannon. Nero's brain works in a messed up way, but it is also extremely calculative. I loved seeing the world through his eyes.
Nero is also just sexy as hell. The way Camille describes him? SWOON ALERT.
"God almighty, why did you give the man with the blackest soul the most heavenly eyes?"
I loved Camille from page one. She didn't take crap from anyone and lived her life according to her own rules (while always abiding the law). When she finds herself stuck after taking the fall for her brother, she quickly learns how to transform herself into a "bad girl." I loved her sass and how she didn't back away from a fight. Her refusal to fall for Nero was adorable and I love how she saw the man behind the front-she took the time to see him for how smart and caring he is.
I always knew cars were sexy but this book takes it to a new level with all the steamy car scenes ;)
This all being said... there are still another 3 books left and I have a feeling one of those will probably end up topping this one as my fave.
(Sophie Lark is my queen and I would let her step on me.)
Series Ratings
Brutal Prince - 4/5
Stolen Heir - 4.5/5
Savage Lover - 5/5
Mafia Bad Boy and Sassy Mechanic? YES.
Heist subplot? HECK YES.
Nero Gallo is bad boy extraordinaire. He is the most volatile of the Gallo siblings and has a notorious reputation. He has known Camille since high school but only now takes a second glance at her. He finds her love of cars sexy as hell and quickly finds himself falling for her-and it freaks him out. He is also determined to prove himself to his family, he wants to show that he is more than just a loose cannon. Nero's brain works in a messed up way, but it is also extremely calculative. I loved seeing the world through his eyes.
Nero is also just sexy as hell. The way Camille describes him? SWOON ALERT.
"God almighty, why did you give the man with the blackest soul the most heavenly eyes?"
I loved Camille from page one. She didn't take crap from anyone and lived her life according to her own rules (while always abiding the law). When she finds herself stuck after taking the fall for her brother, she quickly learns how to transform herself into a "bad girl." I loved her sass and how she didn't back away from a fight. Her refusal to fall for Nero was adorable and I love how she saw the man behind the front-she took the time to see him for how smart and caring he is.
I always knew cars were sexy but this book takes it to a new level with all the steamy car scenes ;)
This all being said... there are still another 3 books left and I have a feeling one of those will probably end up topping this one as my fave.
(Sophie Lark is my queen and I would let her step on me.)
Series Ratings
Brutal Prince - 4/5
Stolen Heir - 4.5/5
Savage Lover - 5/5
June 2, 2023
These two were so hot and I could not get enough of their story. Camille and Nero were absolutely worth every page.
I binge everything Sophie Lark writes and loved this one so so much.
I binge everything Sophie Lark writes and loved this one so so much.
January 6, 2024
I am officially in love with Sophie Lark. Her writing is 👏👏👏
I loved this so much. Camille's relationship with her brother was everything. I also really enjoyed Nero & Camille's relationship (even if it was a tad toxic) 😅
I love this series so much. I'll recommend it to everyone over and over again.
✨mafia
✨fast & furious vibes
✨childhood neighbors
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved this so much. Camille's relationship with her brother was everything. I also really enjoyed Nero & Camille's relationship (even if it was a tad toxic) 😅
I love this series so much. I'll recommend it to everyone over and over again.
✨mafia
✨fast & furious vibes
✨childhood neighbors
🌶️🌶️🌶️
July 2, 2024
I need Sophie to stop writing the male lead's POV based on how men actually think in real life. We don't want that.
June 18, 2023
I definitely need to start reading graphic novels because I’m liking the interjected art work a little too much.
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Camille Rivera (25) | Nero Gallo (25)
FEATURES
∘ mafia romance
∘ hardworking, life kinda hates her fmc
∘ mischievous mmc
∘ “i cared about nothing until you”
REVIEW
I loved Camille and Nero both individually and together. That being said, I do not understand how their feelings developed so quickly. One moment is indifference (and even dislike), and the next, Nero “I hate everyone” Gallo is thinking about her in his free time. For me, they didn’t have enough interactions for me to fully believe their feelings. AND THEN after they really give in, we read a summary (a.k.a. a sentence, maybe two) of the beginning of their relationship. HUH? I want to read the dates they’ve been on and how they’ve interacted not read about them. I am nothing if not nosy.
Relationship aside, the pacing of this novel is pretty good. There’s enough drama and storylines weaved in, and Sophie Lark did amazing at connecting them. There is the pesky little issue of the endings being a bit rushed and/or left open, but it’s FINE.
I know I’ve mostly complained, but I really enjoyed reading this. The story and writing were so captivating that any time I had to stop reading, it was against my will. Seriously. The books in this series are so consumable, and I’ve been yet to be disappointed.
OW/OM DRAMA OW — Nero goes on a date with a bully of Camille’s but it’s only to get information for a heist; he also has sex with two woman (at the same time) after interacting with Camille at the start of the novel but before he has feelings
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP no
ENDING HEA — no epilogue
POV dual / first person
SPICE LEVEL 4 / 5
RATING 4 / 5
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Camille Rivera (25) | Nero Gallo (25)
FEATURES
∘ mafia romance
∘ hardworking, life kinda hates her fmc
∘ mischievous mmc
∘ “i cared about nothing until you”
REVIEW
I loved Camille and Nero both individually and together. That being said, I do not understand how their feelings developed so quickly. One moment is indifference (and even dislike), and the next, Nero “I hate everyone” Gallo is thinking about her in his free time. For me, they didn’t have enough interactions for me to fully believe their feelings. AND THEN after they really give in, we read a summary (a.k.a. a sentence, maybe two) of the beginning of their relationship. HUH? I want to read the dates they’ve been on and how they’ve interacted not read about them. I am nothing if not nosy.
Relationship aside, the pacing of this novel is pretty good. There’s enough drama and storylines weaved in, and Sophie Lark did amazing at connecting them. There is the pesky little issue of the endings being a bit rushed and/or left open, but it’s FINE.
I know I’ve mostly complained, but I really enjoyed reading this. The story and writing were so captivating that any time I had to stop reading, it was against my will. Seriously. The books in this series are so consumable, and I’ve been yet to be disappointed.
OW/OM DRAMA OW — Nero goes on a date with a bully of Camille’s but it’s only to get information for a heist; he also has sex with two woman (at the same time) after interacting with Camille at the start of the novel but before he has feelings
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP no
ENDING HEA — no epilogue
POV dual / first person
SPICE LEVEL 4 / 5
RATING 4 / 5
September 1, 2023
I got this book for review on Netgally.
3.5 stars. This was the first book in the series I've read and the first from the author. I liked it but at times it felt a little to much like reality t drama. But I really liked the heroine.
3.5 stars. This was the first book in the series I've read and the first from the author. I liked it but at times it felt a little to much like reality t drama. But I really liked the heroine.
June 17, 2023
sophie lark siempre me enamora con sus historias <3
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