His Bride

DNF @61%

These characters have been bickering like two old bitches from page one of the first book..the same damn argument THE ENTIRE TIME…I can’t!!!

dnf-princess

Silvia Turi

398 reviews5 followers

August 13, 2025

"Caelian" è finito in suspense, lasciandomi con le lacrime agli occhi. "La Sua Sposa" riparte con una nuova tragedia per la famiglia Del Rossa.
Sia Caelian che Giana si sentono terribilmente in colpa per ciò che è successo, ma ognuno reagisce in maniera differente, portando ancora una volta ad uno scontro che nessuno dei due aveva messo in conto.
Aurelio non molla la presa; è avido di soldi, tanto da portarlo a minacciare i "Sovrano Oscuro". Lui vuole a tutti i costi Giana per arricchirsi, arrivando quasi a rapire Cristiano, il fratello di lei.
Da qui si preannuncia uno scenario con nuovi bagni di sangue, momenti di pura adrenalina e tanta suspense.
Sono giunta alla conclusione dell'ottavo volume di questa meravigliosa serie, e ogni volta è una sorpresa. Ogni fine lettura ho avuto bisogno di prendermi un paio di giorni per elaborare tutte le emozioni, le sensazioni e lo scombussolamento che ho provato durante la lettura.
Alexius, Nicoli, Caelian e Isaia, mi sono entrati sotto pelle uno dopo l'altro. Nonostante i protagonisti cambino ogni volta, sono comunque tutti parte integrante del romanzo. Ormai posso dire di sentirmi anch'io parte integrante della famiglia più importante di Chicago.
Caelian mi ha spezzato dandomi il colpo di grazia finale. Sotto il suo carattere da strafottente, si nasconde un uomo che ha paura di non saper amare. Ci metterà un po' a capire cosa prova per Giana, ma soprattutto ad ammetterlo sia a sé stesso che a lei.
Giana invece mi ha irritato per la maggior parte della lettura; cocciuta fino in fondo, ho avuto prurito alle mani per la maggior parte del tempo. Fortuna, alla fine è rinsavita e ha capito dov'era il suo posto, ma soprattutto accanto alla persona giusta, suo marito Caelian.
Come sempre la lettura è scorrevole. L'autrice ha scritto una serie capolavoro e non c'è altro da aggiungere.
Sono arrivata alla conclusione che non mi basta avere gli ebook nel Kindle, ma devo avere assolutamente i cartacei nella mia libreria, una collezione da poter sfogliare tutte le volte che voglio.
Non vedo l'ora di leggere "Isaia", dove ci sarà sicuramente da divertirsi con l'ultimo fratello Del Rossa.
Lettura super consigliata.

"Nel nostro matrimonio imperfetto, l’amore non è una favola… è una guerra."

Valutazione: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spicy: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Emozioni: 💘💘💘💘💘
Recensione a cura di Silvia Turi

Joan Wells

423 reviews10 followers

January 29, 2025

OMG ...my heart is weak and cannot take anymore .. Bella ripped into it right on the first page exactly where CAELIAN finished with that wicked cliffhanger !!!
I was shocked to the core and the tears started right there ..I could not believe what I was reading !!! How could Alexius die !!! I almost lost it ....Alexius is my fave dark Sovreign and I could not handle him just being killed off, thank God she releases us from that shock shortly after ..what a relief !! Our golden King was alive !! Mother was the one being buried and Caelian was being his usual dark ..angsty self and torturing poor Giana !!! She felt really bad about Alexius getting shot because of her and had the most horrible time trying to get everyone in the family to accept her...she gives up in the end and decides to take the hard way out ...forget about the man she really loves and leaves to go back home to save her little brother.
This book was everything !! All the feels of the hottest Dark Soverieign brother and my God what a fascinating road to the end !!!
If you have not read CAELIAN please do so before attempting to understand this book, it must be read as a duet !! Can't wait for ISAIA's story ....Bella J never disappoints.
I recieved this book as an Advanced Review Copy and I am leaving an honest voluntary review !!

arc-copy

Francheska

862 reviews

Caelian and Giana part 2 … picks up in the aftermath of the tragedy !!!

BLAME is the name of the game for these 2 … she blames herself , he blames her … his words cut her deeply … she is a shell of herself after everything happens and is willing to sacrifice herself once again to protect those she loves . Even if it means walking away from the man who she cannot help but love ❤️ …

She puts herself into the dangerous lions den …. The rival doesn’t care about her ! Her father is a POS … at the end of the day someone has to be there for her … but who ???

This was sooo good ! Definitely read it in 3 hours ! Cannot wait for the continuation of the Dark Sovereign! Job well done 👍

Maryger Chacon

704 reviews4 followers

His Bride by Bella J., is the eighth book in the Dark Sovereign Series, after the heart-stopping ending of the previous book we resume the story in this book with a heartbreaking first chapter, now the Del Rossa brothers must do what is necessary to prove to their enemies that despite what happened they are still powerful, only in order to do so they will have to fix a few things and be very careful who they trust. Caelian blames himself because things escalated when, driven by his feelings for Giana, he put his loved ones in danger, but he doesn't have time to sit down and analyze what that means, he has to help his family regain control and decide what to do to get their revenge for what happened. Giana also feels guilty about what happened, and feels even more out of place when everywhere she goes in the house she sense people avoid her, starting with her husband who hasn't visited her in recent days, and everything comes to a boiling point when her father comes home asking the Del Rossas to help him this time but to save her brother, and when she hears what comes out of Caelian's mouth she decides to take matters into her own hands and decides that she will be the one who should sacrifice herself to end the danger she brought to those she loves. Caelian lets her go, but quickly realizes his mistake and will try to get her back to safety, but Giana has already faced the horrors at the hands of Aurelio and will decide that she will be the one to make him pay and thus free herself and free those she loves from that man's excessive ambition.
Wow! How good is this story! The first chapter had me in suspense, well to be honest the book had me on the edge of my seat, the danger, action, drama, angst and love are mixed wonderfully in this story and you end up constantly thinking about these characters once you close the book and definitely wanting more from this whole family. I will not tire of recommending this complete series to you because it's not wasted. Wonderfully written stories in a world that I enjoy immensely. I will be attentive to what the author brings us from this world because I'm sure they will be explosive stories. Totally, Absolutely and Completely Recommended!
*Thanks to Bella J. and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for my ARC. I voluntarily leave my honest review*

His Bride de Bella J., es el octavo libro de la Serie Dark Sovereign, luego del final de infarto del libro anterior retomamos la historia en este libro con un primer capitulo desgarrador, ahora los hermanos Del Rossa deben hacer lo necesario para demostrarles a sus enemigos que a pesar de lo que paso ellos siguen siendo poderosos, solo que para poder hacerlo deberán arreglar unas cuantas cosas y tener mucho cuidado en quien confían. Caelian se culpa porque las cosas escalaron cuando llevado por sus sentimientos hacia Giana puso en peligro a los suyos, pero no tiene tiempo para sentarse a analizar lo que eso significa, tiene que ayudar a su familia a recuperar el control y decidir que hacer para vengarse por lo que paso. Giana también se siente culpable de lo que paso, y se siente aún más fuera de lugar cuando donde quiera que vaya en la casa la gente la evita, empezando por su esposo que no la ha visitado en los últimos días, y todo llega a un punto de ebullición cuando su padre va a casa pidiéndoles a los Del Rossa que le ayuden esta vez pero a salvar a su hermano, y cuando escucha lo que sale de boca de Caelian decide tomar las riendas del asunto y decide que ella será la que deba sacrificarse para terminar con el peligro que les trajo a quienes quiere. Caelian la deja ir, pero rápidamente se da cuenta de su error y tratará de recuperarla y ponerla a salvo, pero Giana ya se ha enfrentado a los horrores a manos de Aurelio y decidirá que será ella quien lo haga pagar y así liberarse y liberar a los que ama de la ambición desmedida de ese hombre.
Wow! ¡Qué buena es esta historia! El primer capitulo me tuvo en vilo, bueno para ser honesta el libro me tuvo al borde del asiento, el peligro, la acción, el drama, la angustia y el amor, están mezclados maravillosamente en esta historia y terminas pensando en estos personajes al cerrar el libro y definitivamente queriendo más de toda esta familia. Yo no me cansaré de recomendarte esta Serie completa porque no tiene desperdicio. Historias maravillosamente escritas en un mundo que disfruto inmensamente. Estaré atenta a lo que la autora nos traiga de este mundo porque estoy segura que serán historias explosivas. Total, Absoluta y Completamente Recomendada!
*Gracias a Bella J. y a Enticing Journey Book Promotions por mi ARC. Dejo voluntariamente mi reseña honesta*

Loree Bee

72 reviews

category-bad-boys category-dark category-fake-at-first

TLDR:
Star Rating = ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 - I really liked it & will recommend it
Heat Level = 🔥🔥🔥/5 - Scorching
Angst Level = 🥺🥺🥺🥺/5 - Moderately angsty
My Tags: Dark Sovereign, M/F, Banter, Dirty talking hero, Putting the fun in DysFUNctional Family, Just freaking talk already!, Primal play
Tropes: Mafia Romance, Enemies-to-Lovers

That first chapter… 👀 mmmmhmmmm. One word: Vicious! 😈

Moving beyond that, there were parts where I just wanted to scream at them to freaking talk to one another FFS! Eventually though, they figure it out and the third Del Rossa brother falls hard. The fall gave me some slow burn vibes with respect but that’s redeemed at the end. Outside of their relationship, there was also a lot going on in this book to tie things up and move things along in the Dark Sovereign universe.

Good storyline that moves the series story forward nicely ✔️ Enemies-to-Lovers ✔️ Hot AF Banter ✔️ Dirty Talking Hero ✔️

Favorite parts in no particular order:
- The chat between Tobias, the ‘heathen’, and Giana in chapter 4. Makes me wonder when we will see Tobias’ story.
- That Giana sent Caelian away after he came to her room in chapter 7. Not her why, that was dumb (IMHO), but the fact that she stood her ground. At least to his face.
- Isaia’s intense hounding of Caelian to get him to see reason throughout the book. Very much looking forward to seeing more of his story and that of his canary yellow sports car.
- Caelian’s refusal to sign the papers… until the end when he did!
- Caelian allows Giana to seek her vengeance taking a supporting role.
- Private rooms in restaurants 🥵🔥
- Black or White? 😈🌶️

Not so favorite parts:
- The conclusion to Caelian and Giana’s story was a bit more angsty for my personal preference, but did ultimately redeem itself.
- I felt like book 1 of their story was spicier when all was said and done
- Giana’s naivety in thinking that Aurelio will keep his word… on anything… like, ever. 🙄

I’m a sucker for an enemies-to-lovers trope. Add in razor-sharp, hot AF banter and sprinkle on dirty talk and I’m a goner! This was a great wrap up to Caelian & Giana’s story. I liked it and would recommend it if you’re a fan of these same tropes or if you just want to keep up with the Dark Sovereign crew.

I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book, as always YMMV.

Ria Alexander

2,657 reviews51 followers

alpha-males arranged-marriage best-contemporary-romance

Intense & emotional

*If you have not read CAELIAN do not go any further, it must be read first*

When Bella J. concluded Caelian my jaw was on the floor and my heart was a mess. The Prologue for HIS BRIDE, picking up where Caelian concluded, left me feeling exactly the same, heartbroken and with tears. Bella J. certainly knows how to get the emotions flowing early, and she definitely does it in the conclusion to Caelian and Giana's story.

The Del Rossa family is in turmoil, hearts are broken, anger is rife, and yet life must still continue. But how? Caelian and Giana are at loggerheads, even more than before, the tension between them could be cut with a knife. They are both feeling an immeasurable amount of guilt and pain over what has happened, but they are also fighting their own inner demons. While Caelian is hiding his true emotions behind his humour, Giana takes matters into her own hands, which could have disastrous consequences.

This story took me on the proverbial rollercoaster ride of emotions. One minute I was in tears, the next I was in a rage, then suddenly I was laughing out loud at Caelian and Isaia's hilarious back and forth banter. As the suspense builds family loyalties are tested, truths are revealed, and lives are in danger. All through the ongoings Caelian and Giana's chemistry intensifies, their heat sizzles, and their love for each other fours from the pages, but is it a love that has no future? Only time will tell.

Once again Bella J. has delivered a story I couldn't put down. The Del Rossa's have become one of my favourite fictional families, there is never a dull moment with them, and the love they have for each other is boundless. HIS BRIDE was an exceptional read. There is only on Del Rossa left now, Isaia, and I can't wait for his story to be told.

Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction

✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE INTENSE STARS ✨✨✨✨✨

Claudia |✨Cushin Violeta's Bookish Realm✨

1,617 reviews58 followers

Claudia |✨Cushin Violeta's Bookish Realm✨

ANGST ON HIGH & SPICY 🔥

💕🅵🅰🆅🅾🆄🆁🅸🆃🅴 🆀🆄🅾🆃🅴🆂 💕

𝑾𝒆’𝒓𝒆 𝒂 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒇𝒊𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒐𝒔, 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝒐𝒇 𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇-𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏.

“𝑾𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒕𝒉 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒂𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒏𝒐 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒆. 𝑰 𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒂 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒌𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒓?” 𝑴𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒖𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔. “𝑰𝒕 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒎𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒎𝒆, 𝒕𝒐𝒐. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒏𝒐 𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒂 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒎𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒑𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒇𝒇.”

🅼🆈 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆:

This series is definitely one heck of a ride and each book has been a wild one, but I have to say, I didn't expect Caelian and Giana's book to be so full of all the - yummy hate you but also can't stay without you - vibes, that had my head spinning one second and the next thinking what a madhouse, they both are.

Please remember this is book 2 in Caelian and Giana's duet, so it's necessary to read Caelian prior to this one.

Firstly, that first chapter had my heart racing. Bella definitely had me so scared but something does happen, although not the drastic one I had thought that would.

So now, the brothers have to take control and do their best in showcasing a strong image of their family, otherwise enemies are ready to dive in like vultures.

Caelian had me so annoyed with him. He was really a Grade A A-hole in this one. The way he treats Giana, the rash way he talks to his family and even when Isaia tries to put some sense in him, he's just adamant to not wanting to listen to anyone and operate on - my way's the right one only - kinda approach, which had me absolutely miffed with him.

I was here for all the drama that was going on. The way Giana and Caelian drove me crazy with their fighting one second and wild lust the next, was so freaking hot.

Their bantering and barbs are definitely one of the highlights that made this ride amazing but...oh my... They are WILD together.

Caelian definitely made me like him though later on because when he makes up his mind, he goes all in and is unapologetic about it too.

I loved how he pursues Giana so fiercely and doesn't back down. The way he teases and makes her burn for him... Ooohh... 🔥

Now, I can't wait to have Isaia's book next and see what shenanigans and wildness he brings on. ❤️

1,617 reviews58 followers

Nora Temple

8 reviews

October 9, 2024

What a lovely emotional ending. 🌹

The long-awaited second and final book of Caelian's story is finally here. The first chapter has moments that will stop your heart in its tracks, and the epilogue will make it skip a beat. Giana and Caelian have the most intense, wild and emotional journey in this uber-hot mafia romance! It's a drama that keeps you hooked.

I know I'll always love Bella's writing and the way she expertly transmits what we want to feel. However, the duet would have been greatly enhanced by the inclusion of a few details. There should have been a scene in the first book—Caelian, where the mother Mrs Del Rossa is interacting with her sons and their wives, for example. And as an additional point; there were a few instances throughout His Bride where I felt an addition of more dialogue would have enhanced its overall appeal and engagement. I was hoping for more scenes of the brothers and their wives interacting when Alexius returned home. It would have been nice to read about how his mother's sudden death affected him as the head of the family.

I was also hoping to read about the circumstances surrounding Aurelio's demise, including how the brothers have taken on the bad guy's capos, networks and other players. Even though it was subtly hinted that Caelian had already upset Aurelio's foundations, which should have made his crowd react with indifference or remain mainly unfazed; I still thought there was a chance of conflict, which would have probably led to more bloodshed and violence. The Del Rossas were clearly waiting for the right moment to strike back but the calm that followed Aurelio's death was somewhat perplexing. It needed a brief explanation. My guess is that the next book, Isaia (Dark Sovereign Book 9), will briefly touch on how Aurelio's death affects things.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the duet and thought it was a nice read. It had all the elements of an exciting dark mafia romance. 🌹

Beverley

139 reviews4 followers

After finishing Caelian, I began reading this book with a feeling of fear and trepidation. Bella J, just how could you do that to me? There I was in the depths of despair and then … WHAT??? Pure genius!
After recent events, there are feelings of guilt and blame with Giana having to bear the brunt of it. She appears to be somewhat naive of the world she was born into and has far less experience of that world than Caelian. She wants to believe the good in people and is prepared to sacrifice herself for family, taking matters into her own hands. My heart ached for her. I could feel her loneliness and isolation reaching out through the pages, along with her guilt .
Caelian and Giana are stubborn, neither being prepared to give in but that just leads to some explosive scenes and excellent dialogue between them. I loved the verbal sparring with both characters able to give as good as they get. The one liners are priceless! Despite appearing to hate each other, their passion and love seems to intensify and they are drawn to each other like moths to a flame.
Caelian goes on quite an emotional journey, struggling to understand and come to terms with feelings he’s never experienced before, all hidden behind his infuriating cocky and confident persona. At times, I wanted to shake some sense into both of them but, ultimately, he gives Giana what she’s always wanted: a choice.
The Del Rosa bond is as strong as ever when faced with adversity and they present a united front. However, the reader still gets to experience that unique relationship between Caelian and Isaia and their constant, and often hilarious, conversations.
There is a lot to unravel in this book and there are unexpected and subtle twists along the way. I’ve only recently discovered this author and the “Dark Sovereign” series and read the books back to back but now I just want to go back and read them all again!

Rosalie

584 reviews

July 30, 2025

Duet review ;

I loved Caelian and Giana and I think their story (especially book 1) was amazing. Their chemistry and the build up to their emotions was fantastic. Their banter was amazing and their spicy scenes were fire 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

Their HEA was amazing to see. I will say though, as opposed to Alexius and Nicolò’s books, this particular book (number 2), felt too short and rushed and they spent a lot of the book apart. And not enough on storyline and side characters giving me that feeling of being part of their world again. There was very little scenes with Giana and Leandra and Mira. After the climax, it was all tied up nicely but it would’ve been nice to see Giana talk to the women. I would’ve also liked to understand if Leandra and Mira really also blamed her for what happened to Alexius. Cause that was the premise of the book and we know Caelian blames his feelings for her, but did the girls really stop talking to her or was it her perception and guilt? I would’ve found that so unfair cause they’re in the mafia world like … things happen.

She was so happy to have had a family with them in the end I was just hoping for a comforting convo where they tell her they were grieving and it wasn’t about her, etc.

I also think one thing missing from this book is more romantic moments and SEEING the love. We got so much banger and s*x and yes romance but it wasn’t as much so I wish we could’ve seen a bit more of it besides in the epilogue.

Caelian starts off by being an ASS and what I loved is when he realised he loves her he is ALL in.

One thing to note; these books aren’t safe in that the Hs share women and there’s always 1 or so scenes with the brother. It feels like a trope to be used and I prefer without this but I knew this going in which helped.

Giusy Luca

825 reviews5 followers

February 17, 2025

Eccoci giunti alla fine della storia tra
Giana e Caileen. Sinceramente mi aspettavo molto di più da questa lettura, invece mi ha un pò delusa, dopo il cliffanger con cui è finito il primo libro l'inizio di questo volume l'ho trovato pazzesco l'autrice è stata bravissima a creare un clima di ansia e suspense, ma andando avanti con la lettura hai miei occhi ha perso un po di interesse.
Giana non aveva mai voluto quel matrimonio, era scappata, aveva lottato, si era ribellata ma Caileen era stato piu veloce e piu furbo e adesso era una Del Rossa.

Quella che era iniziata come una lotta tra due volontà si è trasformata in un’ossessione. Costretti a un matrimonio di convenienza, tra una caccia e l'altra l’odio si è trasformato in qualcosa di più profondo. Qualcosa di oscuro e irresistibile, qualcosa che li legava in maniera indissolubile.

«Bene. Hai vinto tu. Ma la prossima volta correrò più veloce.»

Sorrido e la tiro più vicino a me. «Puoi provarci, amore. Ma sappiamo entrambi come andrà a finire.»
«Sì, con me bloccata in questa macchina, a chiedermi come sono finita con un pazzo.»

Ma dopo la tragedia che ha colpito la famiglia Del Rossa sia Giana che Caileen si sentono in colpa e il mancato dialogo li conduce spesso verso lo scontro.

Giana si sente messa sotto accusa principalmente da Caelian che la guarda come se fosse lei la causa�� per tutto quello che sta accadendo alla sua famiglia, si sente sola, rifiutata, messa da parte, quando invece avrebbe solo bisogno di una parola o un gesto da parte di suo marito soprattutto dopo che gli ha confessato i suoi veri sentimenti.
Dopo i risvolti drammatici Giana sarà costretta a fare una scelta rischiosa per la sua vita, mentre Caileen farà finalmente chiarezza sui sentimenti che prova per sua moglie.

Riusciranno ad avere il loro lieto fine o lasceranno che l'odio e il rancore li allontani per sempre?

Non vi resta che leggere l'ultimo capitolo della storia di Caelian e Giana per scoprirlo.

Adesso aspetto l'ultimo fratello Del Rossa.

Ringrazio l'autrice per la copia ARC

Jess

87 reviews2 followers

September 28, 2024

His bride starts off where Caelian leaves off. From chapter one your emotions get tossed around is best I can describe it. You really do go thru the most with their story. Caelian who hides his feelings behind a wall of taking nothing serious and jokes, comes to terms of how he really feels when his choice gets ripped from him. You get to see him unhinged and unravel. His heart and emotions get ripped apart and what happens when it gets put back together again. The banter between him and his newyork had me laughing so much. She is exactly what he needs to offset his off the wall theatrics. The back and forth between him and Isaia was also very hilarious. The comedy in these books helps the hardships that they have to overcome.

Giana who in this one grows into the woman she needs to be for her brother does whatever she needs to do to protect him. While doing so, she's made to see for herself who she can truly trust and who is loyal to her. She learns what it means to really be wanted and loved and cared for. What being a family is really all about. Tho her heart was always in the right place, she really did irritate me at times. It took something really terrible for her to realize just how severe her situation is and how much loyalty actually means to her.

Their story really has it all danger, betrayal, suspense, love and hate. Its comedy, witty, unique in a way that you wouldn't expect. Loved every single moment of their messed up story.

Heidi

1,515 reviews15 followers

This books starts off with a big emotional punch to the heart. Let me just say, i was a crying mess during that first chapter. Bella really took my emotions all over with this book and she did such a great job finishing up Caelian and Giana’s story. I went on one big rollercoaster of emotions with this one. I cried, laughed, yelled, and my heart hurt so much. The back and forth between these two was great. You see Caelian’s walls come down and it was a punch to the gut watching him lay it all out on the line, while also being his cocky self. The banter between Caelian and Isaia had me lmao. There are some funny moments between the brothers, and there is also heartwrenching moments in the family. Both these characters felt immense guilt and it just pours out of the page. You can still see the scorching chemistry between them and see the connection and love they have for each other. When they both finally admit it, will it be too late? I loved their story and I loved seeing familiar faces that have pretty much become family since they are such a staple with the Del Rossas. I can’t wait to see what happens in Isaia’s story. I am going to take a breather because I have a book hangover after reading this book.
Caelian - “I love how she challenges me at every turn, refusing to be tamed but still yielding under my touch.”
—— “She lets me hunt, makes me work for her surrender, and when she does, it’s fucking magic.”
Giana - “This man is like a tidal wave barreling toward a shoreline, unstoppable and devastating.”
—— “Caelian Del Rossa is so beautiful it breaks me, and I’m pulled under waves of emotion. Hate, hurt, lust, need. It’s all there, wreaking havoc and causing a riot.”

Cyn Leos

20 reviews

If you love romance, raw emotions, gorgeous writing, unbelievably powerful love scenes and exciting plots, go now and purchase this book! This is absolutely a must own book! As always Bella J. created an amazing story. I fell madly in love with Giana and Caelian from the previous book and that love only grew stronger throughout this one. The anticipation for more story gets higher and higher with each turn of the page! There are clever twists and turns that have you riding on the edge of your seat. I laughed out loud, felt love and heartbreaks, had my anxiety kick in and even actually cried during some scenes. I can not express enough that this is an amazingly wonderful story! Bella J. is a truly profound writer and from the very beginning you are completely immersed in their world and lives. When I reached the ending (which was perfect and beautiful) I was elated with the story but also so very sad that another fantastic book was at its close. That’s why I suggest you buy it, so you can revisit it anytime you want. Honestly for me EVERYTHING Bella J. writes is a treasure. You don’t even have to read the plot, if it’s written by her just buy it, as it’s a guarantee you will love and cherish it always.

Adele Brennan

22 reviews1 follower

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

This book gave me emotional whip lash!! Book 8 in the Del Rossa world and Caelian and Giana's story told and what a story it was!! It was an emotional roller coaster from page 1 and I was holding my breath, holding back tears and on the edge of my seat all the way through this incredibly, raw spicy story. I loved Caelian in book 7 but this book made me fall more in love with him, hes crazy, unhinged, dark, possessive and dangerous but MY GOD is he sexy and absolutely perfect 👌 😂 I loved seeing his journey as he realised his feelings for Giana and I loved his stubbornness as the book went on 😂😂 I loved Giana's character more, she's feisty, passionate and doesn't back down, she does not roll over like everyone in her life expects and thats one thing I loved about her. I loved her and Caelians relationship, I love how well they go together and the spice and tension between them is 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵 Damnnnn Bella J knows how to write a spicy book!! Caelian is filthy and I absolutely LOVED it!!! I loved the banter between the brothers, I laughed so many times during this book. The twists in this book too 😱😱😱
All in all this book is incredible and I 1000000000% recommend this book to everyone who loves Dark Romance.

Cannot wait for Isaias book next!!

Half.sassed.books

404 reviews26 followers

October 4, 2024

Chapter One hits harder than your morning coffee after an all-nighter—emotionally and mentally. Holy guacamole, it's like a freight train of feels! You’ll be clutching your heart, wondering what just happened.

This story doesn't just draw you in; it devours you whole. The author has this supernatural power to drag you into the deep end of drama without a lifejacket. Trust me, you'll love drowning in it.

Caelian and Giana? Oh boy, buckle up! Their tale is a rollercoaster of danger, mystery, and enough heat to melt your Kindle. These two are carrying more guilt than a cat with a broken vase, and it's got them saying and doing things that'll have you sniffling into your pillow at 3 a.m.

But let’s talk about the chemistry between them—absolutely scorching! Seriously, it’s hotter than a jalapeño in July. Caelian's the ultimate bad boy: charming, infuriating, and with a dirty mouth that’ll have you swooning (and maybe screaming in frustration). And don't get me started on Giana—she’s out here breaking her own heart just to protect her brother. That level of devotion? Chef’s kiss, but oh, the heartbreak!

Still, Caelian’s not the type to let his bride slip away. When a Del Rossa wants something, he’ll stop at nothing. It’s all-out war for love and family, and the romantic tension? Yowza. Between the steamy moments and the hilarious banter with Isaia, you'll be entertained for hours.

Family loyalty? Check. Sassy heroine? Check. Banter that'll make you laugh out loud in public? Double check. This one’s got it all!

As always, check the TW. My level of darknesssy not match yours.

Story ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 (rounded up)
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Darkness 🖤

Hanan

2,022 reviews20 followers

Loved it, loved it, loved it!
From the very first chapter my heart and soul were put through the wringer.
So much is happening. So much is going on.
The Del Rossa family is in turmoil and chaos all around them.
They must all come together and unite so their enemies don’t smell blood in the water.
But Caelian and Giana carry so much baggage and weight in their hearts.
They both feel extreme guilt over the disaster that has befallen on the family.
And that leads them to do and say some cutting and painful things.
Even though they are hurting each other emotionally.
Physically the chemistry is still there. It burns hot and bright. Off the charts explosive.
Their passion and lust just comes to life off the pages. It’s that intense and powerful.
I loved the loyalty and love Giana and Caelian had for their family.
It was heartwarming seeing the love and support of the whole Del Rossa family and how they all unity.
The writing is outstanding. Ms. Bella J had me gripped and captivated.
She had me crying, laughing, scared and happy. I felt so many emotions and feelings while reading.
I enjoyed everything about this epic conclusion to Caelian and Giana’s hard fought road to their HEA.

World Of Books 65

3,229 reviews60 followers

She’s my air.
My life.
My everything.

Bella J once again proves her mastery of dark romance with *His Bride*, the eighth book in the Dark Sovereign series. This duet is now complete picking up right where the previous book left us in a gripping cliffhanger. Bella J wastes no time pulling us back into the intense, dark world of passion, betrayal, and dangerous desire.

The unconventional marriage between Giana and Caelian is pushed to new extremes, as family loyalties are tested and decisions blur the line between right and wrong. Bella J weaves her signature brand of intense, passionate, and sometimes uncomfortable storytelling, keeping readers hooked as Giana faces the man who both frustrates and ignites her deepest desires.

With thrilling twists, fiery chemistry, and emotional stakes running high, *His Bride* delivers a heart-pounding ride that fans of the series will devour. This is not the end of the Dark Sovereign saga, but an explosive continuation that will leave you eager for more. Clear your schedule, because once you start, you won’t be able to put this one down!

Little monster

696 reviews19 followers

This is the continuation of Caelian and Giana's story you need to read Caelian before this one.

Oof what a cliffhanger from the last book and we pick up right where that left off and the aftermath of that tragedy!!! The Del Rossa family are broken and in bits but they still must carry on. Caelian and Giana are at loggerheads they really are brutal together and I really did wanna shake the two of them sometimes during this I just felt like screaming at them to talk and get it all out but the angst and the tension made for the story I guess. They are both feeling pains of guilt over what happened but along the way they are both battling their own demons. Can they ever get over this? Can they truly fully love each other?

This is a rollercoaster of emotions my head was spinning honestly one minute I was laughing the next I was so angry and crying I wanted to throw my kindle against the wall but that shows how good Bella's writing is she really sucks you in and the doesn't let you go. I've loved each and every story in this Del Rossa family series and I believe there is only one family member left to get their story so I'm looking forward to that.

Renee

5,200 reviews73 followers

October 7, 2024

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

This is the second book so you have to read Caelian first or you will be lost. This book picks up where that one left off. They are in the aftermath of the end of that book and the first chapter broke my heart. Giana is not the girl she was in the first book and the blame game is happening really badly. He blames her and she blames herself. But she is willing to sacrifice herself once again to protect the ones she loves and all she holds dear. Even if that means walking into a lion den with her head held high and whatever happens happens. Can I just say that I can't stand her father. That every time I think about him still my blood just boils. I know this review makes no sense to you now but it will. This book is so good and you will not be able to lay it down. I loved every single second of this book. Fell even harder for characters that I already loved reading about. If you haven't started this duet you really need to. The entire series is amazing and you really don't want to miss it.

Jennifer

912 reviews8 followers

dark-romance enemies-lovers forced-marriage

The conclusion to Caelian and Giana's story will suck you in and not let you go as the twists and turns and manipulations add up, leaving you wondering what's going to happen next, and who's going to come out on top. The first part of the story had a truly shocking ending, leaving us waiting for the full aftermath, which is where this starts and the consequences of that are dealt out here within the story.
The writing is on point in this, beautifully descriptive as Caelian struggles to articulate his feelings, and there is lots of great teasing banter between him and Giana which at times had me laughing out loud, bizarre in what is such a dark story, but there is a underlying current of humor and playfulness in their interactions. But of course, they struggle with their relationship and responsibilities, all of which tear them apart and add no small amount of drama to their story.
The intimacy between them is scorching hot, they certainly do not lack for chemistry, at times bordering on violent, at times their hunter and prey games almost playful.
Well paced and intriguing, this is one of the best in this Dark Sovereign series.

Brandi-Lynn Weiser

2,131 reviews77 followers

December 16, 2025

3.5⭐️

Caelian and Giana’s story was good, but because of Giana it wasn’t my favorite. I thought maybe after what happened to Alexius and everything in book 1, that in book 2 she wouldn’t be so irritating and annoying. But she was and worse, especially towards the end when she was demanding Caelian sign the divorce papers. He was promising her they’d come up with a plan to protect her brother and she had every opportunity- several, to go to Caelian for help or to work things out and say screw the divorce papers, but she couldn’t. She was too stubborn and selfish.
One thing I’m happy about with their story is there was no bringing in an additional woman to join them in sex at Club Myth. There was a scene with Isaia and Caelian with Giana, which was hot, but thankfully no other woman. I was also kinda glad to see Caelian pushing her away in the beginning and treating her how he did. She deserved to feel like an outsider and like no body wanted her in their house. After how she acted in book 1, I only hoped someone besides Caelian would’ve called her on her attitude.
All in all Caelian and Giana’s story was good- all thanks to Caelian! I absolutely love him humor.

Karen

1,491 reviews15 followers

Trust is a tricky thing and when you're forced to marry without the initial connection first, trust comes even harder. When you're someone that hides their pain and sorrow, it makes it even harder to connect with someone and find that trust and to find love, or at least to admit it.

Caelian Del Rossa is a man that doesn't show his pain or sorrow, he hides behind snark, sarcasm, and his reputation as a Del Rossa. When tragedy strikes the Del Rossa family and things begin to fall apart, Caelian pushes Giana away and ignores her, her mind begins to betray her and make her think the worst.

Giana is loyal to her family but when she realizes that its all for not, she begins to find her life unraveling and there is only one person she wants to save and protect her, but she believes that he doesn't want her. When her life is hanging in the balance of evil and safety, Caelian will find her, but can he save her?

I loved this story, but be sure to read any trigger warnings before reading this book. It is dark and tragic.

Jennifer Pierson

11.7k reviews188 followers

His Bride is the concluding chapter in Caelian & Giana's explosive story, and man, it wrecked me completely. Of course this means that you can't start here, you MUST read Caelian first. This couple was simply sizzling with their interactions, but I have to say, Caelian definitely put his foot in his mouth in big ways & I found myself wanting to shake him hard. He hurt Giana so many times to the point that she felt like she had to be done, and was about to put herself smack dab in serious danger. Despite all the of the fighting, they were drawn to each other like crazy, however, he just couldn't admit it which caused extra chaos in their lives. On top of the war between these two, there are all kinds of things going on with his family, so the twists were coming in hot making it super easy to turn the pages as fast as humanly possible. This story was all consuming, and now I'm back at that place to where I'm dying inside for more of this series LOL! Bella J. is one of the very best out there with mafia romance so just experiece it for yourselves! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Janice

6 reviews

October 3, 2024

A fairly good read

The overall plot was different enough that calling it contrived would be a disservice. However, for me, there were no great surprises. I didn’t particularly like Caelian or Giana so reading their story took me longer than usual. As far as the actual writing, I became bored with the amount of exposition. The same thing for both characters was drilled into the reader. And it went on and on for paragraphs, which I skipped sometimes. What is a mystery to me is that the Del Rosa men needed to have one of their brothers or another relative to have sex with the women who might become their wives. What was that all about???? Weird. The author uses some opportunities to make writing the story easier. For instance: when Mira was kidnapped and left in the hunting area, Nicole suddenly comes to her rescue. Just in time. How did he know where she was? How did he get there without alerting the other hunters? How did he and Mira get away? That was too easy. I gave this work a 3 but should have been less than that.

Rainbow Shelf

257 reviews6 followers

October 7, 2024

When I finished *Caelian*, I couldn’t wait to dive into this book and finally get the full story of Caelian and Giana. Their relationship stood out because they expressed their feelings in such a unique way. Since the previous book ended on a cliffhanger, I’m hesitant to reveal too much, but I’m truly in awe of the universe Bella J has created.

Caelian was, of course, his usual sarcastic and insufferable self, constantly reminding Giana that they were meant for each other. Yet, for the first time in his life, he had to face the reality of loving someone. Giana, on the other hand, showed incredible character growth, learning when to walk away when she wasn't wanted or trusted. She’s always put her family first, sacrificing her own happiness to protect her father and younger brother.

This book was packed with twists and turns, and like all of Bella J’s novels, I devoured it in one sitting.

Thank you, Bella J, for the ARC!

Wendy Livingstone

20.1k reviews257 followers

This is the 8th book in this phenomenal series, and this is the conclusion of Caelian and Giana’s story.
Caelian is possessive and determined, while Giana is sassy and feisty, and he forces her to marry him with a corrupt priest performing the ceremony despite her protests. When tragedy strikes Giana bears the brunt of the guilt and blame, and she is willing to sacrifice herself for the sake of family.
No spoilers this is a must read for all dark romance lovers!
This is a well written action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, loyalty, revenge, forced marriage, angst, drama, obsession, humor, witty banter, tragedy, palpable chemistry, trust, and love, which leads to an entertaining, haunting, unpredictable, and twisted, dark mafia romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

Marie Carpenter

99 reviews2 followers