What do you think?
Rate this book
Beautifully Brutal #1
Black Wedding
Ruthless, feisty, incredibly sexy, and far from the timid daddy’s girl I was expecting.
That’s Brianna O’Keenan–Daughter to Irish Mob boss, and my idea of settling a debt.
The plan was simple. I would take her and hold her ransom to get the money I was owed, but my sweet Bree has her own agenda.
She wants to dominate in a world ruled by men, but she needs my help. Her family’s rules state only men can run the business, so she proposes we get married.
In turn, she would get the power she craves and I would get my money and show the world I'm not to be messed with.
But what happens when real feelings start to develop and we realise our wedding isn’t all that black?
AUTHOR NOTE
Black Wedding is a dark mafia, kidnapping, marriage of convenience, enemies-to-lovers romance. This book features dark themes which may be a trigger for some people. For more information on triggers, please see the front of the book.
Black Wedding is the first book in the Beautifully Brutal series, which follows an Irish Mafia Family as they fight to keep their power. Each book is about a different sibling and the person they fall in love with. So while each couple will get their HFN in their book, there are main plots and themes that run throughout the main books in the series. Therefore, all main books in the series should be read in order.
RECOMMENDED READING ORDER FOR MAIN BOOKS IN SERIES:
Black Wedding
Trust In Me
Fighting To Be Free
The Time Is Now
The Lies That Shatter
Together We Reign
Please Note - Dangerously Deceptive and The Ties We Break are prequels that are set before the events of Black Wedding. They do not have to be read in order to follow the main plot line. However, they do give back stories to some of the main characters, and reading them will give you extra info.
Dangerously Deceptive is Kellan’s backstory and should be read after Black Wedding, but before Trust In Me.
The Ties We Break gives you an insight into Kian and Desmond’s backstory, and should be read after Trust In Me, but before Fighting To Be Free.
That’s Brianna O’Keenan–Daughter to Irish Mob boss, and my idea of settling a debt.
The plan was simple. I would take her and hold her ransom to get the money I was owed, but my sweet Bree has her own agenda.
She wants to dominate in a world ruled by men, but she needs my help. Her family’s rules state only men can run the business, so she proposes we get married.
In turn, she would get the power she craves and I would get my money and show the world I'm not to be messed with.
But what happens when real feelings start to develop and we realise our wedding isn’t all that black?
AUTHOR NOTE
Black Wedding is a dark mafia, kidnapping, marriage of convenience, enemies-to-lovers romance. This book features dark themes which may be a trigger for some people. For more information on triggers, please see the front of the book.
Black Wedding is the first book in the Beautifully Brutal series, which follows an Irish Mafia Family as they fight to keep their power. Each book is about a different sibling and the person they fall in love with. So while each couple will get their HFN in their book, there are main plots and themes that run throughout the main books in the series. Therefore, all main books in the series should be read in order.
RECOMMENDED READING ORDER FOR MAIN BOOKS IN SERIES:
Black Wedding
Trust In Me
Fighting To Be Free
The Time Is Now
The Lies That Shatter
Together We Reign
Please Note - Dangerously Deceptive and The Ties We Break are prequels that are set before the events of Black Wedding. They do not have to be read in order to follow the main plot line. However, they do give back stories to some of the main characters, and reading them will give you extra info.
Dangerously Deceptive is Kellan’s backstory and should be read after Black Wedding, but before Trust In Me.
The Ties We Break gives you an insight into Kian and Desmond’s backstory, and should be read after Trust In Me, but before Fighting To Be Free.
374 pages, Paperback
First published September 9, 2021
686 people are currently reading
1591 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
Read
June 26, 2022The concept was so promising but the execution was inadequate.
The heroine was too young and immature, only 20 y.o., for a mafia boss wannabe. She had neither experience nor knowledge, the only things she had been taught were self-defence, including kickboxing and how to fire a gun. These elements do not make a young girl the first female crime boss to rule over London!!
The insta connection/lust between the mcs was uninspiring and despite how much I tried to keep reading, I got bored and dnf it @ 21%.
The heroine was too young and immature, only 20 y.o., for a mafia boss wannabe. She had neither experience nor knowledge, the only things she had been taught were self-defence, including kickboxing and how to fire a gun. These elements do not make a young girl the first female crime boss to rule over London!!
The insta connection/lust between the mcs was uninspiring and despite how much I tried to keep reading, I got bored and dnf it @ 21%.
September 14, 2021
Firstly I don’t comment much about covers but wow. Have you seen this cover? This is why I wanted to read this story in the first place and that’s rare for me so well done to the author. This story- wow. It literally consumed me one afternoon and I didn’t regret a second of it.
Liam and Bree are my perfect imperfect characters. I couldn’t love them more. The two of them are a force to be reckoned with.
Fantastic storyline this has jumped straight into my favourite reads this year. Seriously can’t wait to read more from this author and hopefully soon.
Liam and Bree are my perfect imperfect characters. I couldn’t love them more. The two of them are a force to be reckoned with.
Fantastic storyline this has jumped straight into my favourite reads this year. Seriously can’t wait to read more from this author and hopefully soon.
not-for-me
March 20, 2024DNF @15%
No. Simply no.
Let's just say that I don't like the writing style.
It just doesn't do it for me.
No. Simply no.
Let's just say that I don't like the writing style.
It just doesn't do it for me.
September 10, 2021
Beautifully brutal and dark!
WOW! This story was outstanding, thrilling, suspenseful, and deliciously dark and sexy. It sucked me into a brutal and violent mafia world that I devoured from start to finish. It continually kept my heart beating erratically and my palms sweating uncontrollably. I was constantly on the edge of my seat throughout and crossing my fingers and toes hoping that there was a happy ending in here somewhere.
This is one hell of an emotional journey that Bree and Liam take us on. Their whirlwind relationship is unpredictable, unprecedented, unconventional and utterly perfect. Bree is a wild firecracker! She’s ruthless when needed, brilliant in her thinking and strategies, and deadly brutal when necessary. Bree is a mafia Queen and the mafia world will soon be ready for her to rule.
Liam is exactly what Bree needs. He’s fierce, brutal, domineering, and deadly. At his first glance at Bree his whole world tilts on its axis. She’s nothing like he expects and everything he is missing in his life. Their instant connection and attraction made for some highly entertaining moments that were filled with laughs and sexual innuendos. Their chemistry oozed off the pages and had me completely captivated. Liam and Bree kept me laughing throughout and I continually had a smile on my face while reading their amazing story.
Black Wedding was utterly perfect. It is brilliantly written with phenomenal characters who are complex and damaged, and with a plot that is thick with action, suspense, violence, lies, betrayal and twists and turns that will leave you shocked, crying and gasping for breath.
I loved it all and I can’t wait for more.
WOW! This story was outstanding, thrilling, suspenseful, and deliciously dark and sexy. It sucked me into a brutal and violent mafia world that I devoured from start to finish. It continually kept my heart beating erratically and my palms sweating uncontrollably. I was constantly on the edge of my seat throughout and crossing my fingers and toes hoping that there was a happy ending in here somewhere.
This is one hell of an emotional journey that Bree and Liam take us on. Their whirlwind relationship is unpredictable, unprecedented, unconventional and utterly perfect. Bree is a wild firecracker! She’s ruthless when needed, brilliant in her thinking and strategies, and deadly brutal when necessary. Bree is a mafia Queen and the mafia world will soon be ready for her to rule.
Liam is exactly what Bree needs. He’s fierce, brutal, domineering, and deadly. At his first glance at Bree his whole world tilts on its axis. She’s nothing like he expects and everything he is missing in his life. Their instant connection and attraction made for some highly entertaining moments that were filled with laughs and sexual innuendos. Their chemistry oozed off the pages and had me completely captivated. Liam and Bree kept me laughing throughout and I continually had a smile on my face while reading their amazing story.
Black Wedding was utterly perfect. It is brilliantly written with phenomenal characters who are complex and damaged, and with a plot that is thick with action, suspense, violence, lies, betrayal and twists and turns that will leave you shocked, crying and gasping for breath.
I loved it all and I can’t wait for more.
September 22, 2021
This is very much a love story that just happens to be about two kids in the Mafia.
Liam has been waiting long enough for payment for doing the hit he was hired to do by Vernon, head of the O'Keenan family. He decides to kidnap his daughter, Bree, for just his fee. Nothing more, nothing less.
Bree is woken by the footsteps of someone outside her room. Unknowing to them, she's been secretly trained how to handle a gun, trained with a knife and handy little tidbits to aid her.
After the shock of facing a very awake Bree with a gun instead of a sleeping girl, he drugs her, and takes her home to conclude his plan.
Bree is unlike any other mafia princess. She's not pampered, spoilt, up herself , only concerned with fashion or celebrities. No. Bree is a spitfire who is determined to become a female boss. She needs to marry, but she wants to be the lead, not her husband.
After finding out the small print in the contract with Liam can actually allow him to marry in lieu of payment, she hastily announces she wants that to go ahead.
So it does.
Naturally everyone thinks it's going to be a disaster. Not only the fact a woman can't lead but Liam is from a rival family. They don't know each other at all, and marriage is fir life - divorce is Forbidden.
Enemies crawl out of the woodwork threatening both their lives, telling them to hand London over and no-one would ever trust a woman. But where is the most lethal threat coming from? Liam has been banished from his family and its well known his father has lusted over London for decades. Then there's the son of the hit Liam killed. And could it be that Brees father is also a threat? But which way first?
Watching Bree in action is pure delight! The men don't expect anything from her, so they get tangled in her words easily and discredit themselves and point fingers without realising it. She's an artist with her knife and can pull the trigger with speed and accuracy.
As her and Liam start to get to know each other, Liam is in awe of this side of her and this generally leads them to working out the adrenaline either immediately after or as soon as they get home!!
They go ahead with their black wedding, surprising anyone who hasn't spent time with them that the relationship is real.
But can it really go this smoothly...? The run up to the wedding the threats quiet down which is suspicious in itself. But there's a few people acting odd, but Bree brushes it aside.
When her danger instinct finally kicks in.....she's already trapped. And it's just the beginning...
Who has her..?
What is it they want? Is it just London or are her and Liam going to be killed too?
How is Liam going to find her?
Secrets come to light from a surprising source and it shows that you should always follows your gut instinct - good or bad.
I received a copy of the ebook in return for an honest review
Liam has been waiting long enough for payment for doing the hit he was hired to do by Vernon, head of the O'Keenan family. He decides to kidnap his daughter, Bree, for just his fee. Nothing more, nothing less.
Bree is woken by the footsteps of someone outside her room. Unknowing to them, she's been secretly trained how to handle a gun, trained with a knife and handy little tidbits to aid her.
After the shock of facing a very awake Bree with a gun instead of a sleeping girl, he drugs her, and takes her home to conclude his plan.
Bree is unlike any other mafia princess. She's not pampered, spoilt, up herself , only concerned with fashion or celebrities. No. Bree is a spitfire who is determined to become a female boss. She needs to marry, but she wants to be the lead, not her husband.
After finding out the small print in the contract with Liam can actually allow him to marry in lieu of payment, she hastily announces she wants that to go ahead.
So it does.
Naturally everyone thinks it's going to be a disaster. Not only the fact a woman can't lead but Liam is from a rival family. They don't know each other at all, and marriage is fir life - divorce is Forbidden.
Enemies crawl out of the woodwork threatening both their lives, telling them to hand London over and no-one would ever trust a woman. But where is the most lethal threat coming from? Liam has been banished from his family and its well known his father has lusted over London for decades. Then there's the son of the hit Liam killed. And could it be that Brees father is also a threat? But which way first?
Watching Bree in action is pure delight! The men don't expect anything from her, so they get tangled in her words easily and discredit themselves and point fingers without realising it. She's an artist with her knife and can pull the trigger with speed and accuracy.
As her and Liam start to get to know each other, Liam is in awe of this side of her and this generally leads them to working out the adrenaline either immediately after or as soon as they get home!!
They go ahead with their black wedding, surprising anyone who hasn't spent time with them that the relationship is real.
But can it really go this smoothly...? The run up to the wedding the threats quiet down which is suspicious in itself. But there's a few people acting odd, but Bree brushes it aside.
When her danger instinct finally kicks in.....she's already trapped. And it's just the beginning...
Who has her..?
What is it they want? Is it just London or are her and Liam going to be killed too?
How is Liam going to find her?
Secrets come to light from a surprising source and it shows that you should always follows your gut instinct - good or bad.
I received a copy of the ebook in return for an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2021
Black Wedding was brilliant. I absolutely loved Bree and Liam’s story! These two were everything! Their story is dark, thrilling, and full of suspense. These two don’t exactly get off on the right foot, but their relationship quickly transforms into something more.
Liam, an assassin, kidnaps Bree so he can recover money from Bree’s father for a previous job. Bree is not one to be messed with. She is a very strong, feisty heroine. She may be a mafia princess, but she’s trained to take over her family’s business. Now, Liam is an alpha male. He’s dominating, fierce, and has his own darkness. However, Liam is more than willing to let Bree stand by his side as his equal. Their start was anything but traditional, but these two would go to the ends of the Earth to fight for each other.
This dark mafia romance had me on the edge of my seat. The kidnapping, interesting and unexpected twists and turns, the refreshing and unconventional characters made this a truly extraordinary novel. I felt this book was slightly length, but at no point did I feel this dragged in its pacing. I’m looking forward to more books in this series.
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Liam, an assassin, kidnaps Bree so he can recover money from Bree’s father for a previous job. Bree is not one to be messed with. She is a very strong, feisty heroine. She may be a mafia princess, but she’s trained to take over her family’s business. Now, Liam is an alpha male. He’s dominating, fierce, and has his own darkness. However, Liam is more than willing to let Bree stand by his side as his equal. Their start was anything but traditional, but these two would go to the ends of the Earth to fight for each other.
This dark mafia romance had me on the edge of my seat. The kidnapping, interesting and unexpected twists and turns, the refreshing and unconventional characters made this a truly extraordinary novel. I felt this book was slightly length, but at no point did I feel this dragged in its pacing. I’m looking forward to more books in this series.
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
September 8, 2021
Bree & Liam *swoon* these two are everything‼️ These two may not have started their relationship off as they were supposed to but it turned into something so much more. The love and fight these two have for one another is unmatched. They fight for each other and would burn the world down for one another‼️Bree and Liam both have this darkness that runs inside them which also calls to one another Bree is fierce and feisty and is a complete baddie not your typical Mafia Princess he** no she kicks a** and takes names and Liam is there every step of the way. I found the that the secondary character are so intriguing and I really hope we get more from them because they really added to Liam and Bree’s story they weren’t just side characters they enhanced the story. If you love a good dark mafia romance then you should definitely check out Black Wedding! Can’t wait for more from this world.
October 16, 2022
I’m completely and utterly in love with Liam & Bree 🥹
I got sucked into this story, it all felt so real like I was there in their world. I was reading it and i lost all track of time and what was going on around me. I loved how real it all felt. I’ve only just finished it and I’m missing them already.
I was hooked from the first page and I didn’t want it to end. The constant twists and turns, the betrayal and the kidnapping completely shook me up. The tears were streaming down my face and I was terrified and heartbroken for Bree and Liam. I loved how they fought for each other and did everything they could to make it work between them. They brought out the best in each other and pushed it each other to do what they wanted. The one thing I loved most about this story was that Liam wanted Bree to run London, he pushed her and supported her to do it. He knew a lot of men would disagree but he saw the fight and the determination in Bree, he knew she could do it and he made sure everyone knew that. Bree is incredibly strong and I love how much she fought to prove people wrong. She stood toe to toe with a power hungry psychopath and told him that she won’t be backing down and she will rule London. I was high pitch squealing!! She wasn’t afraid to speak her mind and to put those misogynistic pricks in their place. She is a queen and with Liam by her side she would rule the world. But as Liam said, she can rule the world but in the bedroom he will rule her!! Oh my god the spicy scenes were TOP TIER, absolutely smoking hot 🔥 I was beyond flustered by the dirty talk and the constant push and pull between them. The build up to their first time was 👩🏻🍳💋!!!!
If you love mafia, enemies to lovers, kidnapping, crazy plot twists and a shit tonne of spice then read this!!
I got sucked into this story, it all felt so real like I was there in their world. I was reading it and i lost all track of time and what was going on around me. I loved how real it all felt. I’ve only just finished it and I’m missing them already.
I was hooked from the first page and I didn’t want it to end. The constant twists and turns, the betrayal and the kidnapping completely shook me up. The tears were streaming down my face and I was terrified and heartbroken for Bree and Liam. I loved how they fought for each other and did everything they could to make it work between them. They brought out the best in each other and pushed it each other to do what they wanted. The one thing I loved most about this story was that Liam wanted Bree to run London, he pushed her and supported her to do it. He knew a lot of men would disagree but he saw the fight and the determination in Bree, he knew she could do it and he made sure everyone knew that. Bree is incredibly strong and I love how much she fought to prove people wrong. She stood toe to toe with a power hungry psychopath and told him that she won’t be backing down and she will rule London. I was high pitch squealing!! She wasn’t afraid to speak her mind and to put those misogynistic pricks in their place. She is a queen and with Liam by her side she would rule the world. But as Liam said, she can rule the world but in the bedroom he will rule her!! Oh my god the spicy scenes were TOP TIER, absolutely smoking hot 🔥 I was beyond flustered by the dirty talk and the constant push and pull between them. The build up to their first time was 👩🏻🍳💋!!!!
If you love mafia, enemies to lovers, kidnapping, crazy plot twists and a shit tonne of spice then read this!!
April 25, 2025
The black wedding was an interesting concept. Liam was hired for a job that didn’t exactly go to plan. Now he wants paying for his time. When the money doesn’t come, he takes Brianna, a Mafia princess in the hope of getting a ransom.
Brianna has different ideas. She might have the mafia in her blood but no one takes her seriously. He wants to be the boss and it’s her job by inheritance, but her dad wanted a son. He doesn’t feel she’s up to the job.
Can Brianna find a new way to get what she wants now Liam is in the picture?
RARE25 Morally Grey Readathon. Book eleven out of eighteen.
Brianna has different ideas. She might have the mafia in her blood but no one takes her seriously. He wants to be the boss and it’s her job by inheritance, but her dad wanted a son. He doesn’t feel she’s up to the job.
Can Brianna find a new way to get what she wants now Liam is in the picture?
RARE25 Morally Grey Readathon. Book eleven out of eighteen.
July 22, 2024
Loved the idea... The execution was not the best!
First thing, and this is a "thing" in most mafia books... Why are the FMC so young?!?!
This is one of my biggest problem with this book. The 20 years old, that after being taught to be a socialite decides to be the Mafia "Boss", nobody wants that, not because she's a girl but because she has ZERO experience and that shows in her actions, she is naive and easy trusting several times! Her background is more told than showed, so isn't very believable...
Kinda like the MMC, the H background feels more real, but didn't like that after their insta-lust he
became automatically beta and not an equal...
IMO the book needed a good edition because there's a lot of "fats" that add nothing to the book and only dragged.
First thing, and this is a "thing" in most mafia books... Why are the FMC so young?!?!
This is one of my biggest problem with this book. The 20 years old, that after being taught to be a socialite decides to be the Mafia "Boss", nobody wants that, not because she's a girl but because she has ZERO experience and that shows in her actions, she is naive and easy trusting several times! Her background is more told than showed, so isn't very believable...
Kinda like the MMC, the H background feels more real, but didn't like that after their insta-lust he
became automatically beta and not an equal...
IMO the book needed a good edition because there's a lot of "fats" that add nothing to the book and only dragged.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2025
DNF 35%
This sounds like something I would love to read. It has a hitman and a bad ass heroine. The kidnapping had my eyes rolling, but the chemistry between these two was good. I might have even liked this and kept going but unfortunately there were just too many word between sentences! Some readers may like long descriptions, but for me I found myself skimming quite a lot so in the end I just gave up. Shame as the main MC’s were very likable.
This sounds like something I would love to read. It has a hitman and a bad ass heroine. The kidnapping had my eyes rolling, but the chemistry between these two was good. I might have even liked this and kept going but unfortunately there were just too many word between sentences! Some readers may like long descriptions, but for me I found myself skimming quite a lot so in the end I just gave up. Shame as the main MC’s were very likable.
March 25, 2022
What a fantastic book!!!! I honestly couldn't put this down!!!!! I love these types of stories anyway a good dark Mafia book!!!
Bree and Liam are on one emotional rollercoaster of a journey!!!! This is dark, twisted and oh so sexy. Yes there are triggers so be warned but my oh my wow!!!!!
Bree is a Mafia Queen and she's ready to rule the Mafia world. Liam comes in and pretty much turns her life upside down and inside out!!! Their chemistry is off the scale hot and beileve me you will need cooling down a fair few times lol. There are some funny moments throughout too which for me is a perfect balance as sometimes these type of books can get quite dark so it really makes a change to have some giggles.
Black Wedding has been my favourite book of the year so far, and possibly will be for a long time to come, I'll definitely be going back and reading it a fair few times as some books I'll only read once and that's it but some I do read again and again as they have stayed with me.
I absolutely loved this and I can't recommend it enough!!
Bree and Liam are on one emotional rollercoaster of a journey!!!! This is dark, twisted and oh so sexy. Yes there are triggers so be warned but my oh my wow!!!!!
Bree is a Mafia Queen and she's ready to rule the Mafia world. Liam comes in and pretty much turns her life upside down and inside out!!! Their chemistry is off the scale hot and beileve me you will need cooling down a fair few times lol. There are some funny moments throughout too which for me is a perfect balance as sometimes these type of books can get quite dark so it really makes a change to have some giggles.
Black Wedding has been my favourite book of the year so far, and possibly will be for a long time to come, I'll definitely be going back and reading it a fair few times as some books I'll only read once and that's it but some I do read again and again as they have stayed with me.
I absolutely loved this and I can't recommend it enough!!
March 12, 2022
Mafia Romance at its BEST!!
“If I was forced to be reckoned with before, then together we are unstoppable.” ~ Bree
Black Wedding is one of the best mafia reads ever!! I loved everything about this book. The author done a wonderful job with this one. It pulls you in from the first page and keeps you on the edge of your seat till the end.
If you skip certain darker and unpleasant things about their beginning then Liam and Bree are definitely #CouplesGoals. The chemistry between these two is smoking hot and instantaneous, but they way these two quickly become so in sync and work together so well is admirable.🥰
“If I was forced to be reckoned with before, then together we are unstoppable.” ~ Bree
Black Wedding is one of the best mafia reads ever!! I loved everything about this book. The author done a wonderful job with this one. It pulls you in from the first page and keeps you on the edge of your seat till the end.
If you skip certain darker and unpleasant things about their beginning then Liam and Bree are definitely #CouplesGoals. The chemistry between these two is smoking hot and instantaneous, but they way these two quickly become so in sync and work together so well is admirable.🥰
September 8, 2021
This book was so much fun! You could tell just from the prologue that Bree was going to get into the best kind of trouble, and boy did she find some trouble in the form of Liam.
There was no playing around with a few chapters of scene-setting; one short prologue and we're taken right into the action. Despite Liam being the one to kidnap Bree, the initial chapters reveal how strong a character Bree is. She has the mouth and guts that a lot of us would probably like and the wits to turn a delicate situation to her advantage. Liam's an interesting one as well. Unlike most mafia stories I seem to read, he's not a raging alpha (well, not in business, anyway) and is content to let Bree take control. That doesn't mean he's not overprotective or a little possessive, more that he sees her strength and knows when to take a step back. It's refreshing to see in a mafia male character.
Some stories pull you in with their action but with Black Wedding, it's the characters and their reactions that have you gripped. Even the bit players in this story have facets that are slowly revealed along the way. You can never quite guess what will happen at any point because the characters aren't in any way predictable.
Luna works really well with the dual point of view, although she hasn't written in a strictly linear fashion. On a number of occasions, I felt that a chapter ended less strongly or as detailed as it could have but the following chapter would rewind and show us events from the other POV. It left me feeling like I knew even more about what happened than if the story had followed the traditional event/shift/event format. Sneaky but incredibly clever.
I thoroughly enjoyed Black Wedding and can't wait for more Beautifully Brutal stories so I can find out what some of the other characters get up to.
There was no playing around with a few chapters of scene-setting; one short prologue and we're taken right into the action. Despite Liam being the one to kidnap Bree, the initial chapters reveal how strong a character Bree is. She has the mouth and guts that a lot of us would probably like and the wits to turn a delicate situation to her advantage. Liam's an interesting one as well. Unlike most mafia stories I seem to read, he's not a raging alpha (well, not in business, anyway) and is content to let Bree take control. That doesn't mean he's not overprotective or a little possessive, more that he sees her strength and knows when to take a step back. It's refreshing to see in a mafia male character.
Some stories pull you in with their action but with Black Wedding, it's the characters and their reactions that have you gripped. Even the bit players in this story have facets that are slowly revealed along the way. You can never quite guess what will happen at any point because the characters aren't in any way predictable.
Luna works really well with the dual point of view, although she hasn't written in a strictly linear fashion. On a number of occasions, I felt that a chapter ended less strongly or as detailed as it could have but the following chapter would rewind and show us events from the other POV. It left me feeling like I knew even more about what happened than if the story had followed the traditional event/shift/event format. Sneaky but incredibly clever.
I thoroughly enjoyed Black Wedding and can't wait for more Beautifully Brutal stories so I can find out what some of the other characters get up to.
October 20, 2022
When Vernon O’Keenan screws over assassin Liam Doughty, he decides to get the money he’s owed by any means necessary. To do this, he decides to kidnap Vernon’s only child, the Mafia Princess Brianna O’Keenan. But Bree is far from some timid damsel in distress; she has her own agenda and she’s determined to go down fighting.
Bree is smart and capable, and she wants to run the business. But her misogynistic family states that only men are allowed to rule. It is then that they come up with a brilliant solution - a union between their two families that nothing can break. Bree agrees to marry Liam so they both can get what they want, but what happens when their feelings start going beyond a business arrangement?
This was my first book by Emma Luna, and I was pleasantly surprised! I loved that despite this being a dark mafia romance, there were also a bunch of humorous moments that broke up the serious parts. This book was full of brilliantly written action scenes, and the steamy bits were fun too!
Bree. I loved that she could 100% hold her own, and she didn’t need to rely on Liam to protect her. Bree is a fierce mafia princess who isn’t afraid to do what she needs to do to survive. Her sass was on another level, and I am completely and totally here for it! Liam. He’s extremely cocky, but he has a right to be. He is both capable and ruthless, and willing to do anything to protect those he cares about. Their chemistry was obvious from the very beginning. I would recommend this to any dark romance lover.
*This review was done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official Book Blog.*
Bree is smart and capable, and she wants to run the business. But her misogynistic family states that only men are allowed to rule. It is then that they come up with a brilliant solution - a union between their two families that nothing can break. Bree agrees to marry Liam so they both can get what they want, but what happens when their feelings start going beyond a business arrangement?
This was my first book by Emma Luna, and I was pleasantly surprised! I loved that despite this being a dark mafia romance, there were also a bunch of humorous moments that broke up the serious parts. This book was full of brilliantly written action scenes, and the steamy bits were fun too!
Bree. I loved that she could 100% hold her own, and she didn’t need to rely on Liam to protect her. Bree is a fierce mafia princess who isn’t afraid to do what she needs to do to survive. Her sass was on another level, and I am completely and totally here for it! Liam. He’s extremely cocky, but he has a right to be. He is both capable and ruthless, and willing to do anything to protect those he cares about. Their chemistry was obvious from the very beginning. I would recommend this to any dark romance lover.
*This review was done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official Book Blog.*
June 23, 2023
We are off to a great start with this brand-new series. We felt the story was well written and it had great characters a hitman and a mafia princess with characters that were damaged and complex.
Liam was a brutal dangerous hitman working for the Irish Mafia and his job is to take out his target but, things go awry and now he wants payment for his services rendered. A plot was formed to collect but, with any plan the outcome and success may need tweaks.
Brianna the feisty princess we called her has an agenda of her own and now that she has fallen into a situation not of her making she could use it to her advantage and be a win-win situation for herself and her hitman..
This story was emotionally full of angst had characters with great chemistry was full of betrayals and downright raw and gritty our favorite type of story. We loved characters like Brianna who have a backbone and one who is just not waiting around for what fate has in store for her.
The story was also riddled with suspense and lies and betrayals that took some twists and turns. It was a story that kept you engaged from beginning to end. Just a fantastic story all around and we just loved it.
Liam was a brutal dangerous hitman working for the Irish Mafia and his job is to take out his target but, things go awry and now he wants payment for his services rendered. A plot was formed to collect but, with any plan the outcome and success may need tweaks.
Brianna the feisty princess we called her has an agenda of her own and now that she has fallen into a situation not of her making she could use it to her advantage and be a win-win situation for herself and her hitman..
This story was emotionally full of angst had characters with great chemistry was full of betrayals and downright raw and gritty our favorite type of story. We loved characters like Brianna who have a backbone and one who is just not waiting around for what fate has in store for her.
The story was also riddled with suspense and lies and betrayals that took some twists and turns. It was a story that kept you engaged from beginning to end. Just a fantastic story all around and we just loved it.
August 31, 2021
Bree and Liam are EVERYTHING 😍
Their relationship doesn't start out in the best of ways, but it quickly and unexpectedly grows into so much more!
I loved their connection, and the fact that they were willing to fight each others corner!
Liam is an alpha male, but that doesn't mean he's going to let Bree sit on the sidelines protected by bubble wrap, he sees her worth and is more than happy to let her stand beside him as her equal 🥰
There's also many other characters I fell in love with! They weren't just side characters, they were so important to the story and I hope they all get their own books! 😍
Their relationship doesn't start out in the best of ways, but it quickly and unexpectedly grows into so much more!
I loved their connection, and the fact that they were willing to fight each others corner!
Liam is an alpha male, but that doesn't mean he's going to let Bree sit on the sidelines protected by bubble wrap, he sees her worth and is more than happy to let her stand beside him as her equal 🥰
There's also many other characters I fell in love with! They weren't just side characters, they were so important to the story and I hope they all get their own books! 😍
September 4, 2021
I loved Bree and Liam’s story!
Bree is a bad @ss and shows she is not some pampered mafia princess. She has done a lot to train so she can take over her family’s business, even if they don’t want a woman to lead.
Liam is an assassin and only kidnaps Bree so he can get the money he is owed from doing a job for Bree’s father. He soon finds out Bree is a force to be reckoned with.
This isn’t a traditional love story and is full of twists and turns that will have you guessing to the very end. I loved the world building and getting to know the characters from both families. This was a fantastic read that is full of action, suspense, betrayal and plenty of heat. I highly recommend reading it!
Bree is a bad @ss and shows she is not some pampered mafia princess. She has done a lot to train so she can take over her family’s business, even if they don’t want a woman to lead.
Liam is an assassin and only kidnaps Bree so he can get the money he is owed from doing a job for Bree’s father. He soon finds out Bree is a force to be reckoned with.
This isn’t a traditional love story and is full of twists and turns that will have you guessing to the very end. I loved the world building and getting to know the characters from both families. This was a fantastic read that is full of action, suspense, betrayal and plenty of heat. I highly recommend reading it!
January 23, 2022
WOW!! This book was totally not what I was expecting.
Despite being brutal it was fun. Liam is a hitman with a conscience and Bree is a mafia princess with a cutthroat killer side who wants to rule. Not at all the usual stereotypes you get in mafia romance.
I absolutely loved both characters and the side characters were so brilliantly written that I can’t wait to get their stories too 😊🤗.
Despite being brutal it was fun. Liam is a hitman with a conscience and Bree is a mafia princess with a cutthroat killer side who wants to rule. Not at all the usual stereotypes you get in mafia romance.
I absolutely loved both characters and the side characters were so brilliantly written that I can’t wait to get their stories too 😊🤗.
March 25, 2022
Liam is a man with morals and decides on his own jobs, he doesn’t want to be associated with his family, but make no mistake, the man will make you pay if you double cross him.
Bree is the mafia princess, but not many know the real Bree. She can be ruthless, dangerous, and very determined. You do not want to double cross her either.
Liam and Bree have a very unusual meeting and courtship, but in the end, they are made for each other. Liam believes in Bree and she in turn finds that she trusts him. Their families are bit messed up, but that’s to be expected when you are dealing with power hungry men that believe that women are lower than them and can’t be as powerful. Boy do these guys have a thing or two to learn, and Bree is more than willing to be their teacher. Good book, good story, and I liked the characters, but there was just something lacking for me, I’m not sure what it was. This was my first read of anything by Emma Luna, and I would like to read more of her Beautifully Brutal books in the future. I give this book a 4-star review.
Bree is the mafia princess, but not many know the real Bree. She can be ruthless, dangerous, and very determined. You do not want to double cross her either.
Liam and Bree have a very unusual meeting and courtship, but in the end, they are made for each other. Liam believes in Bree and she in turn finds that she trusts him. Their families are bit messed up, but that’s to be expected when you are dealing with power hungry men that believe that women are lower than them and can’t be as powerful. Boy do these guys have a thing or two to learn, and Bree is more than willing to be their teacher. Good book, good story, and I liked the characters, but there was just something lacking for me, I’m not sure what it was. This was my first read of anything by Emma Luna, and I would like to read more of her Beautifully Brutal books in the future. I give this book a 4-star review.
October 9, 2023
So I just finished the audiobook of Black wedding by Emma Luna! If you haven’t yet read this series… you really need to grab it! Book 2 Trust In Me is currently in production to be released in audio format as well!!
Let me tell you… Alex Bates and Scarlett Rose McCloughan do a magnificent job narrating this book. And if you know me… you know I LOVE a great accent. And they both have amazing ones. But Alex… 🥵🥵🥵 That Irish accent made me not want to stop listening. I can’t wait for this next book.
Liam and Brianna burn up these pages. Their push and pull from the beginning is so compelling and keeps you reading/listening to find out what will happen next. This series is extremely hot and addicting. I can’t wait to listen to Trust in Me!
Let me tell you… Alex Bates and Scarlett Rose McCloughan do a magnificent job narrating this book. And if you know me… you know I LOVE a great accent. And they both have amazing ones. But Alex… 🥵🥵🥵 That Irish accent made me not want to stop listening. I can’t wait for this next book.
Liam and Brianna burn up these pages. Their push and pull from the beginning is so compelling and keeps you reading/listening to find out what will happen next. This series is extremely hot and addicting. I can’t wait to listen to Trust in Me!
March 13, 2022
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
My names is Liam Doughty and I'm a hit man. All I wanted was to get what I was owed. I carried out the hit I was hired to go by Irish Mob boss, Vernon O'Keenan. It's not my fault they found out too lat that they hand the wrong man. All I wasted was my money. I thought I could kidnap the Mafia Princess Brianna O'Keenan and get the ransom money. What I go was so much more! Ruthless, feisty, and incredibly sexy, she's far from the timid daddy's girl I was expecting. Bree has her own agenda. She wants to dominate in a world ruled by men. I have no doubt she can do it, but she will need my help. Her family rules state only males can run the business. So, Bree proposes we get married. She get to rule, and I get more money than i ever dreamed of. Two dark, evil worlds collide when we agree to our black wedding. We will fight each others enemies and come out on top. But what happens if we develop real feelings and we realize our wedding wasn't all that black?
I am not really sure how to review this book besides saying it is amazing and a book that I didn't put down. This is the story of Liam and Bree. They story they have to tell is beyond thrilling, full of suspense and dark. Oh and I forgot to say hot. So freaking hot you better make sure your kindle isn't melting in your very hands. You are ab out to experience the whirlwind of Bree and Liam and I have to say that those two are perfect for each other. I have to say that I loved them both but Bree is one of those female characters that make you thank your lucky stars for such a strong female character. She is wildfire. She can be ruthless when she needs to be and she can be as soft as a kitten. They may not have a "typical" relationship but they are pure fire and perfection!! I don't even want to get into the story. I will says if you like your books dark and your female characters strong then you do not want to miss this book.
My names is Liam Doughty and I'm a hit man. All I wanted was to get what I was owed. I carried out the hit I was hired to go by Irish Mob boss, Vernon O'Keenan. It's not my fault they found out too lat that they hand the wrong man. All I wasted was my money. I thought I could kidnap the Mafia Princess Brianna O'Keenan and get the ransom money. What I go was so much more! Ruthless, feisty, and incredibly sexy, she's far from the timid daddy's girl I was expecting. Bree has her own agenda. She wants to dominate in a world ruled by men. I have no doubt she can do it, but she will need my help. Her family rules state only males can run the business. So, Bree proposes we get married. She get to rule, and I get more money than i ever dreamed of. Two dark, evil worlds collide when we agree to our black wedding. We will fight each others enemies and come out on top. But what happens if we develop real feelings and we realize our wedding wasn't all that black?
I am not really sure how to review this book besides saying it is amazing and a book that I didn't put down. This is the story of Liam and Bree. They story they have to tell is beyond thrilling, full of suspense and dark. Oh and I forgot to say hot. So freaking hot you better make sure your kindle isn't melting in your very hands. You are ab out to experience the whirlwind of Bree and Liam and I have to say that those two are perfect for each other. I have to say that I loved them both but Bree is one of those female characters that make you thank your lucky stars for such a strong female character. She is wildfire. She can be ruthless when she needs to be and she can be as soft as a kitten. They may not have a "typical" relationship but they are pure fire and perfection!! I don't even want to get into the story. I will says if you like your books dark and your female characters strong then you do not want to miss this book.
August 3, 2023
Great story, was exciting to read.
March 17, 2022
This was my first book from Emma Luna and I was wowed!
The thrilling suspense, action and sexy chemistry had me gripped.
I love me some dark romance but give me a dark mafia romance and I.AM.THERE!
I was intrigued by Liam. He was a dark, sexy and dominant presence and a hitman. I mean hello?? Yasss!
Bree was fierce powerful and totally independent. Her family constantly underestimated her and her ability to be part of the family business. She was more than up to the job, more then that up to being the boss.
Together Liam and Bree could be and will be a force to be reckoned with and the chemistry is absolutely off the charts with them. They also happened to work well together.
I absolutely loved this book and the characters. It is going on my fave list for sure.
I also have to say I cannot wait to read Kellen's book. Just saying!
The thrilling suspense, action and sexy chemistry had me gripped.
I love me some dark romance but give me a dark mafia romance and I.AM.THERE!
I was intrigued by Liam. He was a dark, sexy and dominant presence and a hitman. I mean hello?? Yasss!
Bree was fierce powerful and totally independent. Her family constantly underestimated her and her ability to be part of the family business. She was more than up to the job, more then that up to being the boss.
Together Liam and Bree could be and will be a force to be reckoned with and the chemistry is absolutely off the charts with them. They also happened to work well together.
I absolutely loved this book and the characters. It is going on my fave list for sure.
I also have to say I cannot wait to read Kellen's book. Just saying!
March 20, 2022
“Not gonna lie, this book was EPIC!!! I’m still in shock after the ending and I’m not ready to move on. I’m so in love with Liam lol it’s insane. He’s one of a kind man that’s for sure. The story itself was unique, right after their first encounter that wasn’t conventional I knew it was gonna rip my heart and leave me speechless. The thing with mafia books is that you can always expect the unexpected and yet always be amazed. This was exactly my case.”
March 13, 2022
Okay so I really enjoyed this book. My only criticism is I wanted more of Bree being in charge. Like I want to see her in power and ruling the city….
I mean it’s only book 1 so i’m sure we might see it in the other books as we follow along with the other characters.
Im hoping we see books from Kellan, Freya, Ryleigh, Evan, and Finn.
Dampometer was high i just wanted to see that rope and anal scene sorry not sorry.
@emmalunaauthor you killed it and this new cover is so pretty!!!
Storyline 🐙🐙🐙🐙🐙
Spice 🩲🩲🩲🩲
I mean it’s only book 1 so i’m sure we might see it in the other books as we follow along with the other characters.
Im hoping we see books from Kellan, Freya, Ryleigh, Evan, and Finn.
Dampometer was high i just wanted to see that rope and anal scene sorry not sorry.
@emmalunaauthor you killed it and this new cover is so pretty!!!
Storyline 🐙🐙🐙🐙🐙
Spice 🩲🩲🩲🩲
March 14, 2022
Wow! Loved it!! I love the suspense & the darkness. I could not put it down. I love my mafia books and this did not disappoint I love the characters & the twists in the story. Absolutely fabulous!!
September 10, 2021
Everyone knows that I love Mafia books.
I've read my fair share of them and I always want more.
It's amazing the ability that a blurb can spike your curiosity.
That's what happened with this book.
One look at the blurb and I knew that I needed to read it.
It was a risk since this was the first book by this author.
I didn't know if I was going to like the writing but I'm a risk-taker.
Emma Luna is a new author to me and let's just say that I'll be reading more books from her. That's for sure.
Her writing is raw and wild, dark and mysterious.
Black Wedding is her latest release and explores the lives of Liam and Brianna.
Liam is a hitman. Someone you don't want to cross.
He was given on the job, and when that job was done, his boss realized that he had made a mistake.
But that's not Liam's fault so he wants his payment.
When that doesn't happen he did the unthinkable, he kidnapped his boss's daughter.
Brianna might look like a sweet and naive girl but she's the opposite. She's feisty, ruthless, and has only one goal... To rule in a world dominated by men.
When she's kidnapped she has one idea. To marry her abductor and...
Dayum, just Dayum...
What a book, what a journey...
Perfect plot, super engaging, dark, and intense.
I knew that this book would have a dark vibe but Dayum, it was wild.
One minute things were going one way and then bamm, it changed... It changed.
It was a dark scene after-dark scene, violence but also lots of hot stuff.
This book presented us with violence, betrayal, crime, punishment as well as love, desire, and loyalty.
How can someone be so twisted? How can you husker the ones you love so easily?
This book had it all and I couldn't put it down.
Overall it was an amazing story and I need more.
This was one hell of a premier to me.
Great book Emma, perfect in every imperfect way.
Please tell me that Kegan and Mia will have their own book? I n3ed more from those two. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I've read my fair share of them and I always want more.
It's amazing the ability that a blurb can spike your curiosity.
That's what happened with this book.
One look at the blurb and I knew that I needed to read it.
It was a risk since this was the first book by this author.
I didn't know if I was going to like the writing but I'm a risk-taker.
Emma Luna is a new author to me and let's just say that I'll be reading more books from her. That's for sure.
Her writing is raw and wild, dark and mysterious.
Black Wedding is her latest release and explores the lives of Liam and Brianna.
Liam is a hitman. Someone you don't want to cross.
He was given on the job, and when that job was done, his boss realized that he had made a mistake.
But that's not Liam's fault so he wants his payment.
When that doesn't happen he did the unthinkable, he kidnapped his boss's daughter.
Brianna might look like a sweet and naive girl but she's the opposite. She's feisty, ruthless, and has only one goal... To rule in a world dominated by men.
When she's kidnapped she has one idea. To marry her abductor and...
Dayum, just Dayum...
What a book, what a journey...
Perfect plot, super engaging, dark, and intense.
I knew that this book would have a dark vibe but Dayum, it was wild.
One minute things were going one way and then bamm, it changed... It changed.
It was a dark scene after-dark scene, violence but also lots of hot stuff.
This book presented us with violence, betrayal, crime, punishment as well as love, desire, and loyalty.
How can someone be so twisted? How can you husker the ones you love so easily?
This book had it all and I couldn't put it down.
Overall it was an amazing story and I need more.
This was one hell of a premier to me.
Great book Emma, perfect in every imperfect way.
Please tell me that Kegan and Mia will have their own book? I n3ed more from those two. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 9, 2021
4.5 stars - A kidnapping with an interesting twist, this dark mafia romance kept me on the edge of my seat and holy hot chili peppers was it hot! Told from a dual POV, the author takes the reader on an adventure full of clever maneuverings, action, and intrigue. A unconventional meeting between Bree and Liam leads to something more and I enjoyed how the story progressed - both with their relationship and feelings towards each other, but also with the suspense.
One of the things that I love about this author’s writing is that she doesn’t shy away from creating a heroine that colors outside the lines. Bree is feisty, ruthless, dark and at times a little twisted in her own way. Often times in these types novels it is the anti-hero possessing these personality traits so Bree’s character was refreshing. That is not to say Liam doesn’t have his own darkness as he is an assassin, albeit one with a moral compass. Individually, they are both strong characters, but together they are a force to be reckoned with.
The novel is a little long, but I wouldn’t say there were any areas that dragged. A lot happens within the story but the last third is where things quickly progressed and I found myself eager to know what happens. The character development is well done and the plot is well executed. The secondary characters in the book are interesting in their own rights and the author paves the way for some of them to get their own books which I cannot wait to read! Black Wedding is book 1 in this author’s A Beautifully Brutal series. It is a standalone with no cliffhanger. For those looking for a dark mafia romance with a twist, then you do not want to miss out on this book!
I voluntarily read an early version of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
One of the things that I love about this author’s writing is that she doesn’t shy away from creating a heroine that colors outside the lines. Bree is feisty, ruthless, dark and at times a little twisted in her own way. Often times in these types novels it is the anti-hero possessing these personality traits so Bree’s character was refreshing. That is not to say Liam doesn’t have his own darkness as he is an assassin, albeit one with a moral compass. Individually, they are both strong characters, but together they are a force to be reckoned with.
The novel is a little long, but I wouldn’t say there were any areas that dragged. A lot happens within the story but the last third is where things quickly progressed and I found myself eager to know what happens. The character development is well done and the plot is well executed. The secondary characters in the book are interesting in their own rights and the author paves the way for some of them to get their own books which I cannot wait to read! Black Wedding is book 1 in this author’s A Beautifully Brutal series. It is a standalone with no cliffhanger. For those looking for a dark mafia romance with a twist, then you do not want to miss out on this book!
I voluntarily read an early version of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
September 12, 2021
I have read a few books by Emma Luna and I have to say that this one is my favorite by far. I love her writing because it has dark elements, mystery, and twists. So lets meet the main characters of Black Wedding, Brianna and Liam. So Brianna is mafia princess for the Irish. Now her father is not a good man. He is all about power and control. Now Brianna may be a princess but she does not want to be your typical housewife. She seems to have an appetite for blood and she wants to learn the business. Only one problem, she is a woman and no mafia is lead by a woman. Only things change when Liam shows up and takes her. So why does he take her? Well that is an interesting tidbit of information. However, we do read about their initial reaction to each other. You can feel the chemistry simmering between them and you know it is going to be explosive. Then we learn about Liam and what he is but Brianna sees a different side to him. Liam is like a king in his own right with his skill set. Brianna is just waiting for her time to shine. So when a clause throws them together Brianna jumps at the chance. Only to find out that there will be resistance. Now this is where everything becomes twisted. We don't know where the resistance is coming from. So how will they be able to get past that. We meet several other key players in this book. So when you think you have things figures out, then bam we are blindsided. I am not going to lie, at one point I had tears coming down my face and was heart broken. I felt the pain for Brianna and it definitely was hard to swallow. Then it all came down whether she will get her happily ever after or not. This was definitely a wild ride and I loved every bit of it. We are definitely left with wondering what will happen next. There are moments where we can see other characters getting their moments. Now we just have to wait and see.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews