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Dark Billionaires #3

Two Birds, One Stone

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A forced marriage. A fragile truce. A burning desire.

The first time I met Brianna was at the altar. I expected to loathe her. She was the daughter of the crime boss threatening the lives of my family, but there was something in her eyes that told me I wasn't the only victim here. She’s terrified of me, ignorant of the fact I won’t—can’t—lay a hand on her, let alone consummate the marriage. Even so, her vulnerability draws me closer, awakening something dangerous lying dormant within me.

And then there's him. The hitman-turned-bodyguard who shadows her every move.

Roman is as lethal as he is playful. He flirts with Brianna like it’s a game, pushing my buttons until I’m ready to snap. He stokes my fire, never knowing that the two of them together is the very thing I crave. Part of me wants to wipe that shameless smile off his face…

And part of me burns with the desire to follow them to the bedroom and watch.

🌊 MMF romance
💜 Marriage of convenience
🌊 Enemies to lovers
💜 Virgin hero
🌊 Grumpy and two sunshines

Number of NSFW scenes: Seven
Burn: Slow
Happy ever after: Yes
Standalone: Yes
MM scenes: Yes

ebook

First published April 1, 2025

389 people are currently reading
1335 people want to read

About the author

Stevie Sparks

11 books299 followers
Stevie Sparks is a British author and long-time copy editor from Windsor, England (where Windsor Castle is).

She suffers from a terrible medical condition that has left her incapable of reading books without smut. She also has multiple sclerosis. When it comes to books, she prefers the phrase 'full steam ahead.'

Stevie writes both contemporary and historical romance.

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5 stars
186 (38%)
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177 (36%)
3 stars
88 (17%)
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28 (5%)
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10 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
Profile Image for books_know_rh.
87 reviews3 followers
April 17, 2025
The writing is sharp and evocative, pulling you into a world of danger, desire and unspoken emotions from the very first page. The plot blends forced proximity with emotional depth and complex dynamics. What begins as a marriage of necessity quickly unravels into a tangled web of forbidden longing keeping the reader hooked until the last word.
Each character is layered, with motivations and fears that feel raw and real. Aldous begins cold and distant, but gradually softens, revealing a protective, affectionate side. Brianna may seem delicate at first glance, but her inner strength and resilience shine through. Roman is a total scene-stealer: charming, dangerous, and always walking the line between teasing and temptation.
The chemistry between the three of them is intense and addictive. The slow build between Brianna and her husband is full of unspoken feelings and longing, while Roman adds this wild, playful energy that shakes everything up. The way the tension builds between all three of them feels natural, emotional, and yes—very spicy. But there’s more than just physical attraction here; there’s trust, vulnerability, and the slow discovery of something real.
The atmosphere is thick with danger, secrets, and the gritty underworld of crime families and power struggles, making every moment between the characters feel even more intense. The crime family backdrop adds high stakes and tension without overshadowing the romance.

What struck me the most in this story wasn’t just the chemistry, but the emotional journey—especially between Aldous and Roman. There’s a vulnerability between them and watching that evolve into mutual understanding and to intimacy, was incredibly powerful. Each characters carries pain and a heavy past that shapes how they interact with each other. The story takes its time to reveal their wounds—with subtle actions, silences, and emotionally charged moments. The emotional tension is just as strong as the sexual one. And by the end, what stayed with me wasn’t just the attraction between the characters, but the sense of healing and acceptance they found in each other—not in a perfect or easy way, but in a messy, honest, deeply human way.
Profile Image for Allison Scott.
62 reviews9 followers
April 23, 2025
First and foremost, please read the triggers before reading this book, take care of your mental health.

Now on to the review! 🖤

—————————————————————————————
This book is the 3rd book of the Dark billionaire’s series, however, it can be read as a standalone! And I highly recommend this!

If you know me, I’m really in my era of dark romance and I love a good rich billionaire too! This book simply felt like it was written for me and my taste and I adore that!

I also love how we get little snips of the author’s personality in this book and it truly made it more fun to read.

This book had me laughing, crying, swooning, and sweating (good and bad)

I am in love with the reverse harem in this book, Bri, Aldous, and Roman. The level of emotional intelligence that Roman has is a dream to women, and I’m so glad it was used in a way to help the other male character, without making it feel like it was a hard thing to do! Because when I tell you Roman is quite literally the perfect man.. read the book and see for yourself!

5⭐️’s , The story never felt slow and I didn’t lose interest anywhere in this story! I am keeping my eyes on Stevie Sparks! I was always hooked

Overall a great read and so honored to be apart of the ARC for this!

All I have to say is sharing is caring. IYKYK..🥵

Check this title out NOW!!! 🖤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Tamarra Lynch.
895 reviews36 followers
April 23, 2025
An arranged marriage is Aldous’s only choice if he wishes to keep his family safe. Brianna wasn’t his first choice, but he can see she is just as scared as him, he acts cold and distant towards her, and has no inclination in entertaining any kind of relationship with her.

Brianna is glad to be out from under her mother, it’s like she can breathe for the first time. Brianna may seem like a delicate wallflower, but as she gets comfortable with married life, her inner strength and resilience begin to shine through.

Roman is Brianna’s bodyguard, his job is to protect her, however don’t be fooled by his charm, he is dangerous, but when he walks that fine line between teasing and temptation all bets are off.

Brianna longs to feel the touch of a man, and her husband isn’t able to give her what she needs. Roman has harboured feelings for Brianna, and when he expresses these feelings to her he stakes his claim. But what they both don’t realise is what it does to Aldous seeing them together, but Roman does and he intends to exploit it.

When Roman learns of the trauma that Aldous endured, he understands why he can’t stand to be touched, but it doesn’t stop him from pushing his boundaries and breaking through his defences, he sees another side to Aldous that he doesn’t see himself, he just needs Aldous to admit who and what he is.

Brianna and Aldous’s relationship slowly builds. As they gravitate towards each other, getting to know the other, does he begin to show a softer, yet more protective and affectionate side. There trust and there love, there unspoken feelings and longing takes on new meaning as they give into there desires, with Roman in the mix he adds this wild and playful energy that brings them together, changing the foundation of their relationship.

The physical attraction and chemistry between them is undeniable. They give themselves to each other, the vulnerability that Aldous exudes, Brianna and Roman work to break that barrier, despite the building tension between them, it gives Aldous the chance through self-discovery to accept what he can handle, the communication and respect between them was perfect and on point.

Yet, despite the power struggles between the crime families, the high stakes and tension, there story wasn’t without the danger and its secrets, however over time there wounds are revealed, adding depth. The author wrote the story in such a way that it will pull you into a world so intense that you will feel the unspoken desires and emotions from the very first word.

Having not read the previous books in the series, this story was easy enough to follow on.

Roman knew what he wanted and went after it, Brianna’s confidence developed where she could express what she wanted and needed, whilst playfully giving in return, but with Aldous, the journey he went on, to accept his fear of touch, was a big step forward in there relationship, because between the three of them the connection of touch highlighted the physical intimacy between them, but also the pleasure it ignited when they could truly express their love for each other in their way.

There relationship has complex dynamics, but they don’t let that define them, because as they evolved as characters, so did there mutual understanding, and that is a pretty incredible thing, especially when Aldous’s family accepts not only his sexuality but also his relationship with Brianna and Roman, because what they have, whilst messy in its own way, and the path taken was not easy, they found in each other there own kind of perfect .

The smexy scenes were very spicy, steamy, hot, sinfully wicked, sweet with a side of sassiness and feistiness and deliciously dirty. I particularly loved the fact that there was no jealousy between the three of them, just a mutual understanding of love and respect. As readers we can clearly see Roman loves to be in the thick of it, where Brianna and Aldous respectively like to watch the other collectively adding another layer of intimacy to the beautiful relationship.

Rhys’s story is up next. Can’t wait to dive into it. One can sincerely hope that we get to see where Reina, Koa and his elusive step-brother end up, because if the bonus epilogue was anything to go by we will definitely be in for a treat.

Highly recommend both the author and the book.

I received an ARC. Therefore, I am submitting a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Beth WOLLENBERG.
111 reviews1 follower
April 15, 2025
Two Birds,One Stone-Stevie Sparks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

🖤Mmf
💀mafia romance,
💵billionaire romance,
☀️grumpy/sunshine,
🖤enemies to lovers,
💍marriage of convenience,
🔫bodyguard romance,
💀virgin fmc/mmc,
⭐️opposite attract

🖤Blurb🖤

A forced marriage. A fragile truce. A burning desire.

The first time I met Brianna was at the altar. I expected to loathe her. She was the daughter of the crime boss threatening the lives of my family, but there was something in her eyes that told me I wasn't the only victim here. She’s terrified of me, ignorant of the fact I won’t—can’t—lay a hand on her, let alone consummate the marriage. Even so, her vulnerability draws me closer, awakening something dangerous lying dormant within me.

And then there's him. The hitman-turned-bodyguard who shadows her every move.

Roman is as lethal as he is playful. He flirts with Brianna like it’s a game, pushing my buttons until I’m ready to snap. He stokes my fire, never knowing that the two of them together is the very thing I crave. Part of me wants to wipe that shameless smile off his face…

And part of me burns with the desire to follow them to the bedroom and watch.


⚠️check your triggers⚠️
Your mental health matters

MMF, billionaire romance, forced marriage, with Mafia ties! So much delicious spice! Sign me up!!
I was constantly on the edge of my seat!
I absolutely devoured this book.

This isnt just a romance but action packed as well :-)

#darkromace #mustread #mafiaromance #forcedmarriage #booksofinstagram
Profile Image for Claudia, Cmarie927.
2,051 reviews41 followers
April 14, 2025
If you enjoy a read with exciting twists and turns, unexpected connections, MMF reads, and an addictive storyline, please grab this one!

This is book 3 of this series, and (ugh) I did not read in order... so, I will say, this can be read as a stand alone, but best believe - I will be grabbing books one and two, to fill in the info! Aldous has a tragic backstory that I want more details about (that I'm sure are in books one and two).

This story focuses on the connection between Roman, Aldous, and Brianna. This is a MMF, and the passions between the characters is well rounded. Brianna is a forced bride, not knowing Aldous at all, but Roman and Aldous have some kind of history. When they connect, the chemistry between the three of them is definitely steamy!

The intrigue and violence of this Mafia/Syndicate world kept me on the edge of my seat, and I enjoyed the clever connections between the families. There were a few parts that were a surprise, and a few that weren't. Overall, I enjoyed the way the author presented the loyalties, betrayals, and all that we expect from warring factions in this dangerous world. Their HEA was great, and I look forward to the next new release.

I received a complimentary copy of this book (thank you), and happily leave my review.
Profile Image for kasleep.
140 reviews
April 24, 2025
"i thought my life was going to be over when i married you. but of all the men i could have ended up with, i'm glad it was you, aldous."
"i would wait a thousand years...i would wait an eternity if it meant holding you in my arms for one more minute."
"i love bri...it just so happens i love roman too. our relationship - our marriage - isn't just me and bri. it's all three of us."

this mafia mmf romance had me in a chokehold ok. firstly, the plot had me hooked from the start. yes, these are interconnected standalones so maybe reading the first two books would've helped my understanding of some details, but as someone who has only read this book in the series, it's not necessary. however, i will likely be reading books 1 and 2 for funsies. aldous is our grumpy black cat, roman our golden retriever (actually dalmatian iykyk), and bri our little cutie patootie (again iykyk) ball of sunshine. their dynamic together works so well and it's beautiful seeing their character development, especially that of bri and aldous. roman will forever be my favorite tho and i if requested will be able to provide a powerpoint presentation about it. also, multiple povs!!! as a side note, while bri's epilepsy wasn't a huge focus, i did like the representation of it and how both roman and aldous cared for and helped her with it without disabling her. honestly this will probably be one of my top reads for the year and a new comfort read.

two birds, one stone is out now! thank you to both stevie sparks and the author agency for the arc! *this is my honest review and all thoughts, words, and opinions are my own*

edit 4/18/25: added a quote from bri, roman, and aldous because they're living in my head rent free
Profile Image for Josie.
19 reviews
April 19, 2025
This book was exactly what I wanted, and I’ve been not so patiently waiting for it since I read the previous books in the series. It’s been a little while since I read those but Two Birds, One Stone is definitely my favourite. I’m obsessed with Bri, Aldous and Roman. They’re so perfect for each other, almost instantly becoming a found family that each of them needs. Don’t get me wrong, there’s a LOT going on in this book, and only a few small things felt rushed to me. Bri’s initial epilepsy diagnosis was breezed through a bit, but was quite thoroughly included throughout the book. Roman was an absolute standout, his humour and flirtation brought a consistent light to the relationship which allowed them all to grow and develop. I don’t think I could’ve imagined a more perfect woman for Aldous and Roman than Bri. I don’t really think I could imagine a more perfect woman than Bri period. She’s thoughtful, intelligent, confident and will do anything for the ones she loves. Aldous, Aldous, Aldous… the first two books had already touched on the horrible trauma that Aldous suffered when he was young but seeing the impact that it had on him even decades later was still jarring. I really loved how his trauma wasn’t ‘healed’ when he fell in love with his partners. The safety and comfort that he felt with them allowed him to work through many of his triggers and fears but it did not mean that he was magically healed. He set boundaries and communicated them effectively. I would read 300 more pages of these guys, but I’ll have to settle with rereading the whole series while I wait for Rhys’ book!
Profile Image for Little monster.
696 reviews19 followers
April 18, 2025
I haven't read the others in this series but I think I'll definitely will because it's characters that have featured in previous books.

If you like.....
MMF
Billionaire Romance
Forced Marriage
Hot Bodyguard
Virgin FMC/MMC
Grumpy/Sunshine then you'll love this

This had excitement, spice and twist and turns a plenty. This can be read as a standalone but like I said at the beginning one of the main characters is featured in previous books in this series. Aldous has a tragic past he doesn't like to be touched or touch anyone.....but that all changes when he is forced to marry Brianna. Bri is a forced bride not knowing Aldous at all but as time goes on she warms to him as he does her too ....but what happens when her mother has sent a bodyguard to shadow her every move...?? In comes Roman to the story now it seems Roman and Aldous have a past hence why I need to read the previous books.

Oof the chemistry between these three is 🥵 the spice is off the scale hot! I love how it shows you can heal from trauma together!! Brianna hasn't had a good upbringing either with her mother trying to force her and her sister into the syndicate/mafia world. She really hasn't felt love from her mother at all 😔 so when Aldous at the beginning doesn't want to touch her at all she begins to think that this marriage will never be consummated. Here's where Roman steps in 🥵 can be convince Aldous to let him give Bri the touch she so desperately wants and needs? Urgh the spicy scenes were OMG!! some of the hottest I've read in a while. I can't wait to go back and read the first books now.
Profile Image for GoodLittleLibraryMouse.
184 reviews11 followers
April 10, 2025
This MMF romance is a carefully handled, gorgeous tale of healing from trauma, together. I have been waiting for Aldous' story since I read the first book in this series, and honestly, it was a beautiful surprise to also get Roman's story too! I loved Roman's silliness, but seeing a softer side of him was absolutely wonderful.
The Stone family holds a special place in my heart and I can't wait for Rhys, the final brother's story.

Received ARC in exchange for honest review.
Profile Image for Kimberly Blackburn.
97 reviews5 followers
April 19, 2025
Aldous Stone is a businessman who gets mixed up with the Syndicate, whose leader Vivian promises her daughter, Brianna, to him in marriage. Roman is a bodyguard that Aldous’ brother knows who goes to work as Brianna’s bodyguard ahead of the wedding. Aldous was going leave without Brianna after the wedding until she has a seizure. He realized that she agreed to marriage to escape her mother.

The three of them start a relationship in which they all seem to understand each other’s trauma from the past. The book is written in 3rd person which was different than books I usually read but it was easy to follow. The scenes between the characters especially the spicy ones were great. I loved the scenes between at the end with the rings.
Profile Image for Jackie cantstopreading.
139 reviews2 followers
April 26, 2025
Two Birds, One Stone was absolutely amazing. All three main characters had their own struggles, but having the most traumatic background, portrayed so beautifully in one of the MMC’s was a refreshing surprise. There were a couple amazing twists that I didn’t see coming and I loved every moment of reading it. This is a definite must read 💖
Profile Image for Jeannette Davis.
253 reviews11 followers
April 17, 2025
ARC Review

I always love an MMF book and this one did not disappoint. The plot and storyline was great and really drew you in. And the spice was definitely there. There were a couple of moments that felt forced but overall this was a good read!
Profile Image for Reading_with_AAron.
221 reviews21 followers
April 6, 2025
MMF, billionaire romance, forced marriage, with Mafia ties! So much delicious spice! Aldous the touch sensitive billionaire, Bri the Mafia mistresses mistreated youngest daughter, and Roman the assassin/bodyguard are struggling through this forced marriage and fighting to figure out how to have it all with each other! I had the immense honor of arc reading this awesome book!
Profile Image for Shyann Bierach.
191 reviews1 follower
April 17, 2025
•A forced marriage, a burning desire, a fragile truth. This book definitely has an addictive storyline. I didn’t realize there were two books before this one, so it’s safe to say it can be read as a standalone BUT I will definitely be reading the other two books in this series. It was definitely a slower start for me but once I was hooked, I COULD NOT put the book down! There was definitely some steamy parts & I loved their happy ever after 💜. Cant wait for the next release!
Profile Image for Tia.
204 reviews
April 5, 2025
WOW. I had the pleaser of received an ARC and this book did not disappoint!!! The writing style is incredible, the characters & character development is amazing!

It’s MMF and the spicy scenes are quite descriptive - honestly will get you flustered🥵

I could not put this book down so of course had to read it in less than a day. Probably 30% plot 70% spice but the plot was so important to the spice (which you will find out)

Highly recommend and have already told 4 of my friends to read when it comes out
Profile Image for Kelsey.
215 reviews1 follower
April 18, 2025
Book recommended for readers 18 and up. Check the trigger warnings. I thought this book was amazing. I was hooked from the start. If you like steamy spice, this book has it. I loved the characters and the details. I was not expecting a few twists in there either.
108 reviews3 followers
March 1, 2025
This book is incredible. I had the amazing opportunity to read it as a Beta reader and even without the changes that might happen I absolutely loved it.

The spicy scenes were extremely spicy and I take my hat off to Stevie for writing is as well as she has done because this book is incredible.

The book is MMF main characters and if you can’t get past that then this book isn’t for you because it does go into some detail.

The storyline is incredible.
Billionaire who’s grown up with nothing, and had years of abuse and refuses to let anyone touch him is forced into a marriage. Turns out to be the best thing ever as he meets the two most important people of his life who give him a reason to let go of the past
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for 🖤.
175 reviews6 followers
May 21, 2025
Book 3 in the Dark Billionaires series: Aldous, Roman, and Brianna. This is an MMF, arranged marriage, body guard, grumpy/sunshine/sunshine, past trauma and PTSD, billionaire romance.
An arranged marriage between Aldous and Bri with Roman as their bodyguard…and more.
Trying to solve the identity of Bri’s father.
I loved books 1 and 2 in the series, this book just didn’t resonate with me though. Will definitely read book 4 when it comes out though
2/5⭐️
Profile Image for Lauren Valcourt.
30 reviews
June 7, 2025
This book just wasn’t my cup of tea, and the plot was pretty good. I take my books with a little side of spice. However, this was A LOT of spice…and I’m no prude. Even if it was just between Aldous and his wife Bri it would have been a lot. However, the added third person in this throuple sent the spice over the edge and it was about 70% of the book. I’m sure many will enjoy this, it just wasn’t my thing.
Profile Image for Sara.
314 reviews77 followers
April 6, 2025
𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★★★★★
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: April 17 2025
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪:

Trigger Warning: This book contains mentions of CSA trauma and on page seizures related to a character’s epilepsy.

Stevie Sparks is a new author to me, but after reading this, I'm officially obsessed! Her writing style is so captivating, I literally devoured this book. I'm talking stayed up way too late, ignored my responsibilities, and basically inhaled every single word. No regrets!

I was constantly on the edge of my seat, desperate to know what would happen next. The chemistry? Off the charts. Like, practically setting my Kindle on fire.
But hold up, because this book isn't just romance. It's an action movie in book form. Seriously, I need this adapted into a film ASAP. The twists? The suspense? My jaw was on the floor the entire time. I swear, the amount of turns this book took almost had me in the hospital.

What really made this book special were the characters: Brianna, Aldous, and Roman. Aldous is the grumpy, brooding type, and Brianna and Roman are absolute rays of sunshine that manage to crack through his tough exterior. The dynamic between the three of them is incredible. The author did a fantastic job showing the push and pull, the tension, and the blossoming connections between them.

I also want to give major props to Stevie Sparks for the way she handled some sensitive topics. First, the depiction of Brianna's epilepsy and her seizures felt so real and respectful. And the way that Aldous’ past CSA trauma was approached was done with so much care and understanding. It's clear the author took the time to portray these things honestly and thoughtfully, and I really appreciated that.

This is the kind of book that keeps you on the edge of your seat, I'm not gonna give away too much, because spoilers are a no go, but trust me when I say you're gonna wanna experience this rollercoaster yourself.

Huge thank you to the author agency and Stevie sparks for giving me an ARC for this book.

𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: Mmf, mafia romance, billionaire romance, grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers, marriage of convenience, bodyguard romance, virgin fmc/mmc, opposite attract
Profile Image for sycokittykat - Stefanie.
1,107 reviews36 followers
April 26, 2025
Forced marriage to a man who can't stand touch

Brianna find herself being forced to marry a man she has never met. A man her mother has business dealing with. As she stand in front of him with tears in her eyes she can see he doesn't want to be there either. 

Aldous has been forced into a marriage and he is terrified. Ever since he was young he has been unable to handle being touched. He can handle very brief contact from some family and that is all. What is he supposed to do with a wife?

Roman is a body guard for Brianna and he knows Aldous. He has no clue how this situation will work since he knows about the adversion to touch and even aoe of the story about why. 

However, on the night of the wedding Bri starts seizing and when she collapses Aldous immediately grabs her and never thinks about the fact that he willingly touched her. In fact he doesn't actually let her go until he hand her off to hospital staff. He is very unprepared for the way he responds to Brianna as time goes on but what catches him even more off guard is that he also finds himself wanting Roman. 

As these three deal with the touch issue they find ways around it and find that they all want each other. Their relationship is absolutely beautiful and each piece comes together naturally and without jealousy. 

Of course while they are dealing with their relationship Brianna's mother is causing a stir up with the a neighboring gang. Will her mother and the syndicate she has been running come out on top or will the rival gang take her down? Who is the evil group in this battle? 

I was more invested in the relationship of Brianna, Aldous and Roman than the background story. I was not disappointed and this is a 4.5 star read for me. 
Profile Image for Amanda Large.
184 reviews4 followers
April 18, 2025
What a book!! This was packed with action and plot twists that had me gasping. I LOVED this book. I knew some of what I would be reading based on the tropes, but this was so unexpected. I love those books that blindside you in the best way. Reading something that's not only compelling relationship wise, but plot wise as well is so good. This one definitely brought plot to the table. Having Brianna interact with Roman before meeting Aldous was suspicious, but you quickly grasp what's happening as the chapters and plot progress. And the plot twists with Bri's dad/brothers and again with her sister. Then the one with her mom's organization?? And that last chapter?! I was getting down to the last pages, and I wasn't sure if I'd get the ending I wanted with Roman and Aldous. But those last few pages were everything I was hoping for. Having Aldous' brother say what he said had me gasping in relief. There were some rocky moments, too. I thought for sure someone important wasn't going to make it out alive. But alas, this book does have an HEA, so no worries there.

If there was something I had to nitpick about, it would be the POV. It's written in 3rd Person. But I think this book would be much better being in 1st Person. I say that because there were some times when it felt like I was reading in 1st person, and then the next sentence would be in 3rd person. Which threw off the flow. That's just me being picky, and it didn't reflect my rating whatsoever.

This book is available now and on KU. If you enjoy a good gun fight, this is your jam.
Profile Image for Drea.
70 reviews5 followers
April 17, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5 (and deliciously dirty)

Trigger warnings: please do review the trigger warnings at the beginning because yes, this is a lighter book, it does discuss child abuse, sexual abuse of a child and other general mafia themed violence.

Two Birds One Stone delivers a tense, slow-burning forced marriage setup that blossoms into something much hotter—and unexpectedly tender. While some character emotions didn’t quite land for me, the bi awakening moments were a standout, especially watching Aldous evolve. His aversion to touch was handled beautifully, becoming a key part of how their chemistry unfolded in such a sexy, emotionally satisfying way.

The dynamic between the two MMCs is what really hooked me. Aldous is all tension and restraint, while Roman brings the flirt, the chaos, and, frankly, most of the filth—in the best way. His chemistry with both Brianna and Aldous made the why-choose angle feel natural and layered, even if the Mafia premise required some suspension of disbelief (as they often do). Roman comes off as a bad boy at the beginning but is truly, a golden retriever.

The plot was solid, but I’m not gonna lie—I stayed for Aldous. His character growth, his struggle with vulnerability, and the way his relationships slowly unfurled made this an absolute pleasure to read.

If you’re a fan of opposites attract MM romance with a sunshine FMC that just wants someone to love her, this is your book.
Profile Image for Laurie Reads Reverse Harem.
282 reviews
April 20, 2025
🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️

Tropes

🖤 MMF (with MM)
🖤 Arranged Marriage
🖤 Grumpy x Sunshine
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Virgin FMC

I wanted to love this book. I had expected a dark and depraved MMC, a shy, innocent FMC or a feisty, sassy FMC and another MMC to balance them both.

What I was not expecting... was essentially two golden retriever MMCs and a shy, innocent with hints of sassiness FMC.

Although I loved the storyline, I did not love the writing style. POVs written in the third person is clearly something I dislike because this drove me mad throughout the book, especially when I had to keep re-reading to confirm who said something particular. The plot and storyline was amazing - and I would have loved this book so much more if the writing style had been different.

The growth in the relationship was so beautiful - Aldous' touch aversion was so sad but then I felt he allowed them to touch him so quickly. Which seemed like a bit of a plot hole.

Overall, it was decent. I loved both MMCs but I felt one needed to be darker or keep both MMCs but add an additional MMC who is depraved...

I read this book without reading the additional books in this series and I don't feel I missed much information - I understand everything I assumed I needed to know. Potentially, more information on Aldous' childhood would be described but I don't think it is needed.

I received this book (ARC) for free in exchange for my honest review which I am leaving voluntarily.
Profile Image for Liz.
2,110 reviews15 followers
April 19, 2025
While I’ve read this author before Two Birds One Stone was the first book in the Dark Billionaires series for me, but I was intrigued by the blurb for Two Birds One Stone. In a gripping mafia story based around a forced bride in Brianna, a reluctant groom in Aldous – and just saying really not sure about this name – and bringing up the rear, no pun intended, was Roman who had a connection with the groom. Somehow these three characters have to find a way to coexist but as Aldous and Brianna discover they have more in common than they first thought, their marriage might just turn out to be the best thing that could’ve happened to them.

I loved the heroine and her heroes, they weren’t typical of the characters normally found in this kind of story but were damaged or came with issues, but these were handled in a sensitive manner and without being overdramatised especially with Brianna. I also adored Roman who brought a sense of levity to proceedings, lightening the mood where necessary. The chemistry between all three characters was sizzling and with an overall plot that had enough twists and turns to keep readers on their toes and wonder where Stevie Sparks was taking us, if this book is any indication, I’m now wondering why I haven’t read this series before. I’m definitely going to have to catch up on the earlier books sooner rather than later.
Profile Image for Rae Latte.
1,340 reviews14 followers
May 1, 2025
If you are looking for a book that has:
✔ MMF
✔ Marriage of Convenience
✔ Grumpy & TWO Sunshines
✔ Golden Retriever (MMC #1)
✔ Virgin Hero (MMC #2) and Heroine
(FMC)
✔ Enemies to Lovers
✔ Bodyguard (MMC#1)
✔ Found Family
✔ Loyalty
✔ Betrayal
✔ Secrets...oh the secrets!
✔ Alliances
✔ Desire

Heat: 🔥 Inferno Heat: Graphic and detailed scenes that include any or all of the following: Erotica, BDSM, or something mentioned in the authors Trigger Warning.

What happens when you discover that the one thing you never thought you would experience was possible AND is soo...sooo...happening?

Family expectations and obligations are filled with danger for Aldous, Brianna, and Roman. Will they be able to trust each other as they navigate a world that is dark and controlling? Once they realize in order to survive their connection and friendship will change forever.

This is a dark billionaire romance that is intense, emotionally captivating, and inferno hot. While I have not read the other books in the series I wish I had to truly appreciate the characters and the journey they are on. I have already added the first two books to my list.

Thank you to the Author Agency and Stevie Sparks for an advance reader copy for an honest and fair review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kim Taylor.
51 reviews13 followers
April 15, 2025
✨ • ✨ Book Review - ARC Review ✨ • ✨ Two Birds, One Stone by Stevie Sparks

Rating: 4  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 3 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Firstly, i want to say Thank you to Stevie Sparks and team for the opportunity to get an ARC of this book! @Steviesparks.author & @theauthoragency

I absolutely devoured this book. The MMF romance is a must read story of healing from past traumas and the understanding of patience.
The Forced Marriage and Mafia ties created an intriguing storyline, and I’m not sure if I could have fallen more in love with Roman. His silliness, patience, love, and protectiveness will have you swooning. The MMF relationship had me head over heels in loveee!! 😍😍

Aldous and Brianna’s marriage, though initially forced, blossomed into a nurturing and caring partnership. I was captured by the character development of both characters and the way their relationship was portrayed in the book.

This was my first Stevie Sparks novel, and I thoroughly enjoyed her writing style. I didn’t realize it was the third of her novels when I signed up for her ARC, but I appreciate that it can be read as a standalone. However, all her books are now added to my TBR list. 😅

Please do check the trigger warnings if you want to read this Book!
338 reviews
April 19, 2025
Two Birds, One Stone is book three in the Dark Billionaires series and is the story of Aldous, Brianna and Roman.

Stevie Sparks does it again in this third installment of the Dark Billionaires series. Aldous Stone had a traumatic childhood that left him with lasting physical and emotional scars that keeps him from trusting in those around him. Brianna Yarborough has grown up the second daughter to a Mafia Queen and has always tried to life a life of her own, until her mother decides she will marry Aldous to benefit her empire. Roman is a friend of the Stone family and has been asked to infiltrate the Sindicate and be Brianna's bodyguard. Close proximity and mutual attraction play havoc as Aldous and Brianna adjust to married life with Roman by their side.

This is an arranged marriage, close proximity romance with banter, deception, darker themes and family drama. Please review the trigger warnings as there are some sensitive subjects that may be an issue for some readers. This is a sweet story of overcoming your childhood, dealing with your fears and finding those who become your family.

🌊 MMF romance
💜 Marriage of convenience
🌊 Enemies to lovers
💜 Virgin hero
🌊 Grumpy and two sunshines
6 reviews1 follower
April 19, 2025
A Twisted, Tender, and Wickedly Addictive MMF Romance

This book isn’t just a spicy MMF—it’s a full-on emotional rollercoaster wrapped in heat, heartache, and high stakes. Set against the backdrop of a crime family’s legacy and a marriage neither party chose, it’s a darkly romantic slow burn with so much more beneath the surface.

Brianna is a virgin heroine trapped by her bloodline, but there’s steel under her fear. Her arranged husband? A wounded, celibate billionaire who’s more broken than brutal. And then there’s Roman—the golden retriever hitman who’s as charming as he is deadly, and whose teasing masks something much deeper.

This story simmers with longing and forbidden attraction, balancing grumpy/sunshine dynamics with real emotional wounds. It’s tender and tense, heartbreaking and healing, and when the heat finally comes? It burns. The slow-burn tension between all three characters is off-the-charts, and when it tips into full-blown MMF territory, it feels earned.

There’s exhibitionism, enemies-to-lovers sparks, found family feels, and an undercurrent of danger that keeps the pages turning. If you like your romance complex, your men damaged but devoted, and your spice with a side of pain and power plays—this one’s for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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