Crimson Fate

Crimson #2

by Wendy Owens

In the electrifying sequel to the steamy mafia romance, Vincent King is grappling with the weight of his new role as head of the family and the unsettling alliance formed through his sister Amelia's marriage to Alexei Ivanov.

Haunted by the responsibilities of leadership and the shadows of the past, Vincent feels lost. When a loyal member of the King crime family suggests a strategic marriage to his daughter to show the house is not divided, Vincent agrees, seeing it as a necessary step to strengthen the family's power and protect its future.

Eva, always the steadfast friend and confidante, has been a constant in Vincent's turbulent life. Amidst the chaos the King empire went through, Eva's presence had become a source of comfort and strength for him. When she learns of his engagement he is confused when she pulls away from him. As he prepares to enter a loveless marriage for the sake of the family, Vincent is struck by a sudden, undeniable realization - he is deeply, irrevocably in love with Eva.

Torn between duty and desire, Vincent finds himself at a crossroads. Pursuing his feelings for Eva could jeopardize the fragile peace he has fought so hard to maintain within his family. Yet, denying his heart could mean losing the one person who has been his anchor in the storm.

In this passionate and thrilling sequel, the stakes are higher as love, loyalty, and power collide. Vincent and Eva must decide if they are willing to risk the fragile peace for a chance at happiness, or if the shadows of their duties will forever keep their hearts apart.

304 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 5, 2024

About the author

Wendy Owens is a thriller writer, born in the small college town, Oxford Ohio. After attending Miami University, Wendy went onto a career in the visual arts. After several years of creating and selling her own artwork she gave her first love, writing, a try. It’s become a passion ever since.
When she’s not writing, this dog lover can be found spending time with her tech geek husband, their three amazing kids, and three pups. She loves to cook, watch movies, and play games.

If you want to follow her on social media you can visit:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WendyLOwens
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wendy-...
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a Dark Mafia Romance, and this is the second book in the Crimson series. I have read the first book in this series before picking up this book, but I do think you can read this book as a standalone. I found the first part of this book really boring and so to get going. Once, it got moving I really enjoyed it. I just wish the first part of the book had more action and less whining, The characters in this book was not my favorite and I did not really connect to them. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Magic book club · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5 stars

I read the book and I don't know what to write, to be honest. I like the writing style and the author has the power to draw you into the story from the very beginning and hold your attention. This was not the case with this book. I have mixed feelings about the book and I like it and I don't like it. Vincent is a disgusting character to me, Eva and Gia are kind of out of character for me and honestly, I couldn't wait to finish reading. I'm sorry to say this, but I think it's best to be honest and say what you think. That doesn't mean I'm going to stop reading Wendy Owens' books, maybe this one wasn't for me.

Thank you for this opportunity.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Makeitshine2021 · Rating 1 out of 5]

When i open a book to read....i want the mmc to have eyes only for the fmc...not him going about having sex with other women....
This one is a big fat no
I should have stopped reading when the mmc was having sex with two females in the first chapter.....
And I don't even want to get started on vincent...dude you had been having sex with your soo called fiancé but your stomach twisted in a knot seeing eva alone with marco....hypocrite much
Eva....god why do authors love to make fmc with zero self respect....man just returned from a vacation with his fiancé but this woman jumped right in his bed and then i love you were being exchanged.....god....i cant deal with this

[~lil maso~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Robyn for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner

This sequel to the first book, Crimson Ties, is very different, and that’s not a bad thing. Whilst I enjoyed the story, I will admit I was expecting some more action and drama in the story rather than the focus being on the romance. However, the last twenty percent made up for it with the excellent build-up of suspense created by incredible descriptions.

Vincent has a big problem in trying to reassure his mafia captains that he is the right leader, but having people undermine him is more than a difficult situation. This whole issue is a nightmare for a Don, and it needs someone really strong who can make quick but solid decisions. Although he is quite arrogant, my heart went out to Vincent a bit because his father had undermined his confidence not long before he died, and that is something tough to regain.

Eva is a terrific character, and I like her for Vincent; mind you, I do understand his thinking he might not be suitable for her, considering his position and enemies. Eva showed incredible strength, though, and I liked how she stood up to Vincent when it was needed. She is a very discerning character.

Marco seems to be coming into his own in this series as well, and it’s great to see. I look forward to reading the next book, Crimson Vows, where Marco is one of the leading characters.

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*

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[Grinning Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

MMC/FMC- Vincent and Eva

POV- 1st person

Genre- Mafia Romance

Heat- 🌋🌋🌋🌋☄️ (1🌋=2☄️). They do all the things and use all the words to name the parts. Sharing.

Series? Y

Safety? N. There’s cheating.

Triggers - Call Roy Rogers because we’ve got some triggers up in here. Alcohol use, kidnapping, violence (including torture and murder), explicit erotic content, language, mention of human trafficking, drug trafficking.

Tropes- Friends to Lovers, Bizarre Love Triangle, It’s Good to Be the King, Dysfunctional Family FTW, Daddy Issues, Do-Si-Do with the Mafioso.

Thoughts- this book was well written and it kept the pages turning. That being said, this book was problematic for me. I was not impressed by Vincent’s moral compass regarding the way to treat women. The cheating (and I consider what he did to be cheating) did nothing to recommend him to me. He treated every woman in this book poorly. However, because it was riveting (kind of in the same way that a car wreck is riveting), I gave it four stars.

I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crimson Fate by Wendy Owens is book 2 in the Crimson series…and whew!!! What a read!!! This story follows Vincent, who has taken over the family after his father’s death. He struggles with the turmoil and dissent throughout the ranks, as he ascends the King empire. By his side through everything, is his friend, Eva. But now, one of his father’s most trusted has presented him with a proposition that could change everything…

This story was PHENOMENAL!!! Vincent’s struggles are real…and this deal could help! But, there’s a price…and it might be Eva. The story crescendos and ends with a huge, unexpected conclusion!!!! Excellent and gripping read!! Couldn’t put it down!!

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crimson Fate is book 2 in the Crimson series and is Vincent and Eva's story. It's intriguing and intense. Vincent is having a very difficult time proving himself to his men and fortunately for him, Eva never misses a beat. She's right beside him the entire time. This is an excellent addition to this series and I can't wait for Crimson Vows!

[Robyn Corcoran · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wrote this review for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner.
This sequel to the first book, Crimson Ties, is very different, and that’s not a bad thing. Whilst I enjoyed the story, I will admit I was expecting some more action and drama in the story rather than the focus being on the romance. However, the last twenty percent made up for it with the excellent build-up of suspense created by incredible descriptions.

Vincent has a big problem in trying to reassure his mafia captains that he is the right leader, but having people undermine him is more than a difficult situation. This whole issue is a nightmare for a Don, and it needs someone really strong who can make quick but solid decisions. Although he is quite arrogant, my heart went out to Vincent a bit because his father had undermined his confidence not long before he died, and that is something tough to regain.

Eva is a terrific character, and I like her for Vincent; mind you, I do understand his thinking he might not be suitable for her, considering his position and enemies. Eva showed incredible strength, though, and I liked how she stood up to Vincent when it was needed. She is a very discerning character.

Marco seems to be coming into his own in this series as well, and it’s great to see. I look forward to reading the next book, Crimson Vows, where Marco is one of the leading characters.

[Maria Angie Mendoza · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 2 in the Crimson Ties series and we get Vincent and Eva’s story.
It certainly was a page turner but I honestly struggled liking these characters. Maybe that’s the point. The over the top everything kept me intrigued and guessing what was going to happen.
Boy oh boy these characters were cray cray… and they certainly took me on a wild and crazy ride.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like with the first book in this series there was so much I enjoyed with Crimson Fate and some parts I didn’t. As a rule, I love Wendy Owens style of writing, her stories tend to grab me from the start with enough twists and turns to keep me guessing and the plot of this book was no different. The suspense built throughout as the deceased Edward King casts a long shadow over his son Vincent’s new reign as head of the family as he strove to prove he was strong enough to be the boss to his capos. Where it fell a little flat for me was with the hero and heroine, they just weren’t likeable. It’s dark, mafia romance, you expect a complete and utter anti-hero that you’ll love to hate but know that love will will eventually redeem him. Vincent had seemed weak in the first book - if this was the Godfather then, he’d have been Fredo – and here he acted like a spoilt brat where his treatment of women including his sister and his prospective bride made him a complete turn off and for that reason I’m only giving this book 3.5 stars. The only characters I actually found myself liking were Marco and Gia and since the next book features them, I’m hoping they won’t disappoint me.

[Aurelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rating out of 5
As always please read the trigger warnings prior to reading.
Spice level 3/5
Definitely not a clean read




Vincent struggled throughout the book with pressure and doubts of his capability to fill his father’s role after his death. His support system is minimal after Amelia’s marriage to their rival. He mainly only had Eva and his cousin Marco. Vincent’s scrambling to gain acceptance of “the family” to ensure their legacy. Especially after his sister’s marriage was seen as a betrayal to “the family” and his father’s unexpected death during their trial of who would inherit this role. He is quick to his feet when a threat of another family “The Deluca’s” surfaces. Vincent I loved during the first book, he was so serious but very strong… this book gave a different pov of his inner thoughts and struggles.

I was an arc reader for the first book of the series, I loved the first one. And I could feel the chemistry between Eva and Vincent, I couldn’t wait to see how their relationship developed on their own book. but sadly this book fell flat for me. It felt rushed on the Eva and Vincent as a couple. You don’t get to see their full potential as a couple like Amelia and Alex. This book felt like it was more focused on Vincent than slowly shifted towards Gia. Eva was made to feel like she was just there for emotional support or validation instead of a partner.

The beginning of the book while Vincent started to question why he felt so alone after Eva would leave or feel some type of way. Or the instances where Eva reassured him that he has what it takes to take over his father’s reign, those were the parts I looked forward to within the book but gradually those moments disappeared.

Vincent x Eva as head of the family was a dynamic that would’ve been great to see, as they’re both head strong, but has different ways of finding solutions to their problems. Eva has a humanitarian heart, seeing her as the Queen balancing out Vincents lack of empathy and bluntness in situations would’ve been insane to read. Overall, I wished we would’ve seen more.


Marco and Gia will be the next book of the series from what the last chapter of the book.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Crimson Ties, I couldn't wait for this book to be released and I wasn't disappointed! I literally read it one sitting. Dealing with the upheaval of his father's death. Keeping a firm hand at the helm . Dealing with loyalty and betrayal within the ranks. Realising that sometimes the thing you don't realise you need and want is right in front of you.

Vincent is now head of the family and he's dealing with the weight and responsiblilty of it. Strengthening alliances but also making sure he has the respect and support of those beneath him . He's also concerned that his loyalty to the family will be questioned after his sister Amelia married Alexei Ivanov. Through all of this Eva, Amelia's best friend and close friend to Vincent has been there making sure he is ok. Eva is surprised when she hears suddenly that Vincent is talking about a marriage to Gia, the daughter of one of his Capo's as an alliance to strengthen his position as head of the family and asks Vincent whether he is making the right choice.

Will Vincent go through with the marriage? Will he see Eva as more than a family friend? Who can he trust when he finds out that things have been going on under his nose? Is he being played?

Now I'm hooked even more and can't wait for the next book in the series to be released.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

Vincent King is the new head of the family and dealing with a alliance that is not one that he thinks is good and is worried about because his sister married Alexei Ivanov. The man certainly has a lot to worry about on his plate. After all the King empire is one the line. The only thing in life he has ever really been about to count on is Eva, the one constant in his life. She has been there through everything. Now thought that he is about to enter a loveless marriage for an alliance. Eva can't stand there and watch this happen and she pulls away from him. She has been there for him though the chaos the King family went through. The good the bad and the ugly of it all. Now there is a fragile peace to keep and a marriage that will never have a bit of love and Eva can't stomach it. When she is gone and not there like she used to be for him he realizes that he has made a terrible mistake and is utterly and hopelessly in love with Eva? If he goes after what he wants he could have totally happiness in his life for the first time in probably ever. But that could destroy the fragile peace that is in place. What will he decide to do and will Eva be on board? You have to read and find out. This book will suck you in and I thought it was really good.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 2nd story in The Crimson Series where Vincent takes over after the ugly death of his father the Don. During Vincent’s life growing up he’s been close to his sister, Amelia and her best friend, Eva who stood next to him through tough situations. With the power change Vincent is having a hard time getting his captains to get behind his leadership and there are issues creeping up over bad decisions those in the family looking to take the control and power away from Vincent. When Vincent is given a chance to an arraigned marriage with Gia, his captain’s daughter, he’s hoping to get his captains behind the marriage and his power without there not being love present. When hidden agendas are revealed Vincent takes action to find out what’s going on and gets information from an unusual ma. Eva sees what’s going on and takes the time to bring it to Vincent’s attention knowing he’ll give her a hard time. Eva is one tough woman who stands up to Vincent and makes him see what’s right and wrong! Vincent’s right hand man, Marco takes on many jobs for Vincent and along the way when trouble comes their way he steps up to ensure Gia will be okay from the fallout.

[Deyce M · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my second book by the author and I enjoy her writing style. However, this book was not what I was expecting. Vincent and Eva’s relationship felt more like sister/brother type than romantic. I still don’t how to feel about him suddenly discovering his love for Eva after coming back from a getaway with his fiancée. I felt the whole relationship was rushed. I would have liked to have seen some tension between them or how their relationship conflicted with him as the head of the organization. I still enjoy reading it and I am looking forward to the next book.




I received this as an eARC and I am leaving this honest review.

[Shifty Bugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This is the second book for Crimson Fate and this book was good. This story was about Vincent and Eva, Vincent King, is a young Mafia boss after the death of the Don his father and now Vincent is the head of the family, he was asked to marry the daughter of one of one of the men close to the family. Vincent has agreed to marry the daughter Gia. Eva seems to calm Vincent down, the emotions plays a big part with them. Vincent has a dilemma a triangle of emotions with Gia and Eva what is the best for him and the family.

[Marina Garnica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think eventhough Vincent was a secondary character on the first installment and he was not seen deeply in it, I didn't expect the way he is seen in this one. I thought he was more caring and more settled, but he seems unable to accept opinions but his own and makes him seen bit wreckless and resented, specially towards his sister, eventhough he clearly thinks he is the only one doing things right.
On the other hand, Eva seemed like the character portrait in the first installment and made it enjoyable. I also liked Marco a lot and hope to see more of him on the next installment.
The story I wish there was bit more romance built, eventhough the mafia part was quite good!

[Yolanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well I didnt know what to expect from this book. It was interesting. I didnt like the way he treated his sister because she married outside their circle. I thought he was easly swayed because he should've never agreed to that marriage. Then sleeping with both women. He tried to use I'm the boss don't question type of vibe. He messed up a lot and it will probably cost him in the end. I did like Eva but she stood around helping him when she knew she liked him. It did have some action towards the end. Overall it was a decent read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Alina Jenkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love this Author, the character just wasn’t for me

I really wanted to love this book because the first one was so good, but up until about 80% through it, I HATED Vincent. It got to a point where my poor husband had to listen to me aggressively talk about how insufferable Vincent was. I knew about 6 chapters in who the villain was and it took Vincent until the last couple chapters of the book to figure it out and he was shocked?!?! Like, Sir, I could be a better Mafia King than you….. I want to be clear though, this author has a huge talent in engaging their reader, I just don’t think the character is for me.

[Emily Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here’s a shorter, strong 5-star review:

---

**A Powerful, Emotional Sequel**

*Crimson Fate* is a gripping follow-up that raises the stakes in every way. Vincent’s struggle between duty and desire is intense and beautifully written, and his unexpected realization of his love for Eva adds a deep emotional pull to the story.

Eva’s strength and loyalty make her the perfect balance to Vincent’s chaos, and their chemistry is impossible to ignore. The tension, the passion, and the high-risk family dynamics kept me hooked from beginning to end.

A thrilling, heartfelt sequel that delivers on every level. Highly recommended.

[lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving this series. This author killed it with this book. Vincent and Eva are a great couple, I'm so glad they got their own story. You knew from the last book that the author alluded to Eva having feelings for Vincent but he was clueless. In this book regardless of Vincent's lifestyle choices she continues to stay by his side even if its only as his friend. This author definitely took you on a rollercoaster ride full of suspense and intrigue. I'm glad these two got their happy ending and absolutely can not wait for Marco's story. I highly recommend this book.

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just an amazing Mafia book! Loved it!

With his father murdered, Vincent is now Don but with a potential uprising he believes an arranged marriage to Gia is the solution, but someone else is not happy.

Eva and Vincent really have the makings for a great couple, very much love, respect and passion. With Gia there is only some of that.

Loaded with so much drama, this action packed book really had me enthralled from start to finish.

Very well done I cant wait for more in the series. Great work!!

[Autumn Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I overall enjoyed this book. This was book two and focused on Vincent and Eva after Vincent took over the family business. I liked the writing style, the smut, and the overall story. It did fall a little flat for me with the plot's predictability and I was not able to connect as much with the main character, Vincent, like I did in the last book with Amelia. I am, however, excited for the next book focusing on Marco who I am invested in already. I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A marriage between two families to strengthen both! BUT, it's not her. It's not Eva!

Proving himself to everyone has not been easy for Vincent.

BUT, the ever steadfast Eva has stood by him, always.

But, can she continue to do so?

What choice does Vincent have? Does he choose love or position?

So glad I found Ms. Owens! This series hits my mafia romance heart in all the right ways!!

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vincent is strugglig to remain leader after his fathers passing and constant undermining by his men, but Eva had always been one he could rely on, but now a propersition of marriage by one of his fathers oldest friends to their daughter puts a strain on their relationship and for whats to come ahead. well written the storys different to book one but still kept my attention and well developed characters. a great addtion to the series, with steamy scenes, angst, drama and more

[Jaime Yates · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Crimson series. This is Eva and Vincent story. Loaded with so much drama, this action packed book really had me enthralled from start to finish. The plot is well developed with action, drama, angst and a bit of spice. The writing is excellent, the development of the characters is superb, and I was fully invested in ALL the characters! I'm glad these two got their happy ending and absolutely can not wait for Marco's story. I highly recommend this book.

[Anna M. Diaz]

Vincent King/Gia Casaletto. Mafia Don/Capo's daughter. Arranged marriage suggested. Leadership questioned. Rivalry? Support. Plots. Secrets. Lies. Revelations. Eva. Sister's Best Friend. Distraught. Disillusioned. Dangerous. Violent. Possessive. Protective. Threatened. Kidnapped. Rescued. Attraction. Taboo. Affection. Consensual. Acceptance. Wonderful characters and endearing story. Love. HEA. Entertaining.

[Alexandra Peter · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was very excited for this because it's a dark mafia romance but this for me was too much space and not enough plot, which I don't often say. That's pretty much the reason behind my star rating because otherwise I enjoyed it.

I would still recommend it as it was a quick and easy read for me and I will be reading the first book in the series. That also might have helped!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nita · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one hell of a roller-coaster of a book. I didn't think I could like the series more than I already did but here we are. This book had me feeling every emotion possible. It's definitely a sister's best friend with a twist kind of book set in a mafia setting during a time of great turmoil and change. Can't wait for book 3 to come out.

[Sophie Ruthven · Rating 4 out of 5]

I definitely enjoyed this book much more than the first.
This book, while taking a bit to truly get into felt much more cohesive and I found myself more captivated the further I read, especially when the puzzle pieces and players started becoming apparent.
I'm purposefully not commenting on the main characters but let's just say I was pleasantly surprised for a lot of it.