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Cruel Empire #2
Fool's Gold
In the glittering lights of Hollywood, the brightest smiles hide the darkest secrets.
I thought I was done with Marcus Ortega and the ghosts of his past, but it’s become clear that he’s a drug I can’t quit, the epitome of danger wrapped in allure.
It’s impossible to focus on my career when he’s dragging me further into the dark side of Hollywood where corruption and scandals thrive, but no matter how high up the ladder of fame I climb, Marcus’s shadow looms over me and I fall down again.
I never knew he was entangled in the mafia, and now, because of him, I’m caught in their deadly web, too. The more he tries to free me, the more I’m faced with two harsh realities: I’m in this too deep, and Marcus might be the end of me.
Somehow, I’ve got to navigate the treacherous waters of the industry, all while evading the seediest corners of the red carpet. But with every forbidden touch, I know that resisting him may be the ultimate test of my will—and my survival.
I thought I was done with Marcus Ortega and the ghosts of his past, but it’s become clear that he’s a drug I can’t quit, the epitome of danger wrapped in allure.
It’s impossible to focus on my career when he’s dragging me further into the dark side of Hollywood where corruption and scandals thrive, but no matter how high up the ladder of fame I climb, Marcus’s shadow looms over me and I fall down again.
I never knew he was entangled in the mafia, and now, because of him, I’m caught in their deadly web, too. The more he tries to free me, the more I’m faced with two harsh realities: I’m in this too deep, and Marcus might be the end of me.
Somehow, I’ve got to navigate the treacherous waters of the industry, all while evading the seediest corners of the red carpet. But with every forbidden touch, I know that resisting him may be the ultimate test of my will—and my survival.
- GenresRomance
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 8, 2024
1 person is currently reading
34 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
August 13, 2024
Spice: 3/5
I really love this plot. An FMC who falls in love with her father’s best friend after they tragically pass away. Like pass me the popcorn because I’m HERE FOR IT. Toss in some almost mafia/gang level bad guys and threats and I’m be happy reader.
The back and forth, I hate you but I love you was *chefs kiss*! Pulled off so well by the MMC. He wants to protect her but he can’t resist her. She wants to be treated better yet she can’t let him go. Oof, the drama that I just could not get enough of.
The only reason I’m removing a star is being a felt the FMC was exceptionally immature. It did fit with the way she was raised but I felt like after a tragic event it’s like a dose of reality should’ve forced her to grow up more. She knew her life could be in danger and yet she still acted like having to act in a movie was the worst fate ever. Very out of touch with reality. She somehow grows the guts to save everyone in the end and it didn’t feel like it was a smooth enough finish for me. Like it did not fit the FMCs personality.
I really love this plot. An FMC who falls in love with her father’s best friend after they tragically pass away. Like pass me the popcorn because I’m HERE FOR IT. Toss in some almost mafia/gang level bad guys and threats and I’m be happy reader.
The back and forth, I hate you but I love you was *chefs kiss*! Pulled off so well by the MMC. He wants to protect her but he can’t resist her. She wants to be treated better yet she can’t let him go. Oof, the drama that I just could not get enough of.
The only reason I’m removing a star is being a felt the FMC was exceptionally immature. It did fit with the way she was raised but I felt like after a tragic event it’s like a dose of reality should’ve forced her to grow up more. She knew her life could be in danger and yet she still acted like having to act in a movie was the worst fate ever. Very out of touch with reality. She somehow grows the guts to save everyone in the end and it didn’t feel like it was a smooth enough finish for me. Like it did not fit the FMCs personality.
August 8, 2024
Things escalate in this 2nd book with Empire (FMC) and Marcus clashing on so many levels with the difficulties to having to finishing the film quickly. With every turn there's more things in there way to stop that from happening. Marcus did my head in with his need to control every aspect of Empire's life but when she tried to distance herself (at his request) he couldn't bare it. Making for a fiery dynamic between both of them which made for some explosive hot & steamy scenarios. A great ending though and I enjoyed reading it.
August 7, 2024
WARNING: taboo subjects, graphic scenes, torture 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Picking up right where book 1 left off, we've got a very disgruntled Empire, cursing Marcus for all he's worth and dealing with very nasty media. Her whole world has fallen apart, first the loss of her parents and then Marcus. How he did, what he did, has absolutely no bearing on how Em saw it. There's a saying "assumption is the mother of all f*ckups" and it couldn't hold more true. Hurting, reeling, she does the only thing that makes sense to her, she flees. Which of course, has Marcus in frantic mode. Em just doesn't get the gravity of her, THEIR situation, that what Marcus has done, is doing is to protect her. Forced into doing a movie, beholden to the Mafia, Marcus does whatever he can to protect her, from them, from him... he's the ultimate bad boy, with a dodgy past. He set that all aside, becoming someone new, someone who can look himself in the mirror but once in, there's no escape.
I love a duel POV, the inner workings of each person are so different to what they portray, it allows me to "see" inside them, to feel them. And boy did I feel for Marcus! His all consuming need of Empire, his self revultion, his desperate attempt to distance himself, yeah, he wore his thoughts on his sleeve while presenting a hards exterior no one could penetrate. I was immensely pleased how Ember has grown through this 2 book series, no longer a confused grieving teen, she steps up, she knows what she wants and she goes after it. The intensity between her and Marcus is off the charts spicy and hot!
This isn't just about hot sex though, there's a real plot, there's a realism in the manifestations of the Mafia, a feeling of helplessness that threatens to overcome both the MC's. But it also shows strength of character, a burning need to protect that which one loves and it shows how easy it is to be naive and duped. I was horrified when Jacob, who I viewed as the ultimate good guy, did what he did! Like, no way! Ms Harper spun that so skilfully I didn't see it coming. And I do enjoy the HEA in all this author's work, the getting there is fraught with major danger and much anguish but it always leaves me with a smile when I get to the end of a Brooke Harper book!
Picking up right where book 1 left off, we've got a very disgruntled Empire, cursing Marcus for all he's worth and dealing with very nasty media. Her whole world has fallen apart, first the loss of her parents and then Marcus. How he did, what he did, has absolutely no bearing on how Em saw it. There's a saying "assumption is the mother of all f*ckups" and it couldn't hold more true. Hurting, reeling, she does the only thing that makes sense to her, she flees. Which of course, has Marcus in frantic mode. Em just doesn't get the gravity of her, THEIR situation, that what Marcus has done, is doing is to protect her. Forced into doing a movie, beholden to the Mafia, Marcus does whatever he can to protect her, from them, from him... he's the ultimate bad boy, with a dodgy past. He set that all aside, becoming someone new, someone who can look himself in the mirror but once in, there's no escape.
I love a duel POV, the inner workings of each person are so different to what they portray, it allows me to "see" inside them, to feel them. And boy did I feel for Marcus! His all consuming need of Empire, his self revultion, his desperate attempt to distance himself, yeah, he wore his thoughts on his sleeve while presenting a hards exterior no one could penetrate. I was immensely pleased how Ember has grown through this 2 book series, no longer a confused grieving teen, she steps up, she knows what she wants and she goes after it. The intensity between her and Marcus is off the charts spicy and hot!
This isn't just about hot sex though, there's a real plot, there's a realism in the manifestations of the Mafia, a feeling of helplessness that threatens to overcome both the MC's. But it also shows strength of character, a burning need to protect that which one loves and it shows how easy it is to be naive and duped. I was horrified when Jacob, who I viewed as the ultimate good guy, did what he did! Like, no way! Ms Harper spun that so skilfully I didn't see it coming. And I do enjoy the HEA in all this author's work, the getting there is fraught with major danger and much anguish but it always leaves me with a smile when I get to the end of a Brooke Harper book!
August 11, 2024
We pick up where All that's glitters left off, but the drama we left there has far from gone away. Empire knows that Marcus is tangled up with the mafia, with everything she been through and now what she deems as Marcus betraying her, she finds herself in an untenable situation.
Empire and Marcus are forced to make a film for the Mafia, to not make it is certain death. Marcus does what he can to protect Empire from the mafia, but the threats just don't go away. That undenable chemistry between them also burns as hot as ever.
Empire does seem to grow up somewhat, accepting that her choices at this time are very limited and sometimes you do have to something which you don't want to do. Marcus on the other hand I just didn't like, he came across as really weak. On the one hand, he tries to cut ties with Empire, in a bid to keep her safe from the mafia yet on the other he gives in to the heat and desire between them, telling Empire its the last time, more than once.
Thier journey is a rollercoaster, maybe a better analogy would be a yo-yo, up, down, up, down, until we get to the point where finally Empire appears to be ready to walk away from Marcus and build her life minus him. If only it was that simple, nothing ever is. It's at this point I got a bit lost then as to the why, but the action keeps on going into some dramatic final scenes, which leaving you holding your breath. Well worth reading.
Empire and Marcus are forced to make a film for the Mafia, to not make it is certain death. Marcus does what he can to protect Empire from the mafia, but the threats just don't go away. That undenable chemistry between them also burns as hot as ever.
Empire does seem to grow up somewhat, accepting that her choices at this time are very limited and sometimes you do have to something which you don't want to do. Marcus on the other hand I just didn't like, he came across as really weak. On the one hand, he tries to cut ties with Empire, in a bid to keep her safe from the mafia yet on the other he gives in to the heat and desire between them, telling Empire its the last time, more than once.
Thier journey is a rollercoaster, maybe a better analogy would be a yo-yo, up, down, up, down, until we get to the point where finally Empire appears to be ready to walk away from Marcus and build her life minus him. If only it was that simple, nothing ever is. It's at this point I got a bit lost then as to the why, but the action keeps on going into some dramatic final scenes, which leaving you holding your breath. Well worth reading.
August 11, 2024
Fool’s Gold by Brooke Harper is book two in the Cruel Empire Series/Duet. After reading the first book I couldn’t wait to get my eyes on this one. Fool’s Gold picks up directly after All that Glitters so you must read the books in order. My kindle got a workout with this book since I never put it down until I was finished, the suspense had me on the edge of my seat at times. The rollercoaster of the characters emotions and they are they meant to be together made it an intense read. The tension between Empire and Marcus with her dealing with him pushing her away. Also reading about how he was trying to protect her made such a dynamic read. Needless to say I was rooting for them that everything would work out. This book was wonderfully written with an intense and intriguing storyline plus the plot just sucks you in. The worldbuilding and descriptions were great; I could picture everything I was reading with such clarity. Overall I absolutely loved reading this. Huge fan of this author’s writing talent and will be looking forward to more books. If you’re a fan of mafia and bodyguard romances then I highly recommend checking out this duet. Two thumbs way up!
Final review:
5 out of 5 stars
Final review:
5 out of 5 stars
August 12, 2024
Book 2 in the Cruel Empire series. This is a dual POV with alternating chapters by the two main characters Empire and Marcus.
The story continues from book 1 where Empire just found out of Marcus’ previous involvement with the mafia and that the plane crash that killed her parents was actually an attempt on Marcus’ life. He’s now been offered the choice of take over producing the film Empire is currently acting in or be killed and they kill Empire too.
Obviously Empire is very upset by all this and feels very betrayed but is torn by the fact that she’s also in love with him. Marcus is doing his best to keep her at a distance to keep her safe but he’s also in love with her. This leads to some scenes of amazing chemistry and tension at not being able to have who and what they wanted, scenes of anger when that frustration builds up, jealousy when other people become involved and fireworks when they give in.
Add in the tension and excitement of the mafia storyline and you have yourself a great book.
The story continues from book 1 where Empire just found out of Marcus’ previous involvement with the mafia and that the plane crash that killed her parents was actually an attempt on Marcus’ life. He’s now been offered the choice of take over producing the film Empire is currently acting in or be killed and they kill Empire too.
Obviously Empire is very upset by all this and feels very betrayed but is torn by the fact that she’s also in love with him. Marcus is doing his best to keep her at a distance to keep her safe but he’s also in love with her. This leads to some scenes of amazing chemistry and tension at not being able to have who and what they wanted, scenes of anger when that frustration builds up, jealousy when other people become involved and fireworks when they give in.
Add in the tension and excitement of the mafia storyline and you have yourself a great book.
August 21, 2024
There is no escaping the mob once you entered their world. Marcus Ortega is experiencing it now repeatedly. Hunted, blackmailed, pushed back to his old life if he wants to protect the woman he was supposed to guard. Empire is broken and grieving yet pushed to her limits to finish filming the movie that added to her mental strain. On top of it, se has to attend social events and be the star she is expected to be. But this life of fame, attention, no privacy, and pressure isn't something she thrives in - she would prefer to listen to her own heart, heart that is owned by a brooding, violent, dominating man...
Hot, action packed, steamy, violent dark mafia romance with characters with larger age gap but undeniable chemistry. The hot and cold dynamics of the relationship between Marcus and Empire are a driving force of the whole story, set into the dark world of violence, brutality, and crime that comes with the mafia. I absolutely love it, and after the stunt Empire pulled at the end of the book I definitely need more asap.
Hot, action packed, steamy, violent dark mafia romance with characters with larger age gap but undeniable chemistry. The hot and cold dynamics of the relationship between Marcus and Empire are a driving force of the whole story, set into the dark world of violence, brutality, and crime that comes with the mafia. I absolutely love it, and after the stunt Empire pulled at the end of the book I definitely need more asap.
August 19, 2024
This series is really well done. The author has done a phenomenal job with these characters. From the chemistry, that back and forth pull between these two , their own struggles and the drama that ensues, this authour lays it all out so so well. This is not a series that I would typically pick up, I am not all that into age gap stories, that being said, I really enjoy this authour and just because I don’t normally go for this genre, doest mean I won’t give it a try now and then! So of course I picked it up because I have enjoyed everything I’ve read from this authour so far! This series is no different! I am so glad I started it! I was wholly immersed in this world! Well written, with that edge of danger that the mafia vibes give, the tension and drama, all of it put together makes for a great read. These characters are beautifully flawed and this authour has done such a good job portraying them within this story.
August 4, 2024
The individual in a managerial position, who had acted as a guardian following the unfortunate loss of her parents, has now ended that professional relationship. This decision was made with her well-being in mind, as they are being pressured by his former mafia supervisor who is coercing them to finalize the film within an unanticipated two-month timeframe. Their relationship faced inherent challenges due to the age difference and his moral conflict regarding his feelings for his best friend's daughter. Their circumstances became increasingly perilous when the mafia leader threatened his life; however, she demonstrated remarkable ingenuity, successfully outsmarting the mafia. The dynamic of their age disparity, coupled with the suspenseful narrative and passionate moments, contributed to a captivating storyline.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2024
Empire still struggling with the death of her parents and being forced to do a movie she does not want to do at a terrible breakneck speed working like 20 hours a day. Her love for Marcus so intense and his pulling away from her and she is not understanding why. The mafia had their hands into her and Marcus has to save her. The dynamic relationship between them comes off as they are not really meant to be together. How can Marcus get Empire out from under the thumbs of the man he worked for when he was young. What new trap was set for Empire when Marcus thought he had it all worked out? Will Empire finally come into her own and realize they she needs to take control! This book shows a complicated relationship of a young girl and an older man. The realization that sometimes age just does not matter.
August 11, 2024
Book 2
Taboo- Guardian (but not anymore)
Age Gap
Mafia
I love the dynamic between Empire and Marcus!!! They are on fire. 🔥
Empire is working on a movie….that just so happens to be owned by Marcus’ old Mafia boss. She is being forced to do the movie even when she tried to get out of it. The production is at break neck speed and if she doesn’t go through with it her reputation will be ruined and photos will be released of her and Marcus together in a compromising position while he was still her guardian. She's in deep and it's up to Marcus to make a deal that could cost him his life and have to leave Empire completely to save her. He keeps this little tidbit from her for a good long while.
Surprise! Empire also has a new admirer, but is he as perfect as he appears? I think not….Get ready for some drama, spice, and everything nice! I couldn’t put this book down and was so sad it was over! I highly recommend reading this and check out the first one if you haven’t already!
Taboo- Guardian (but not anymore)
Age Gap
Mafia
I love the dynamic between Empire and Marcus!!! They are on fire. 🔥
Empire is working on a movie….that just so happens to be owned by Marcus’ old Mafia boss. She is being forced to do the movie even when she tried to get out of it. The production is at break neck speed and if she doesn’t go through with it her reputation will be ruined and photos will be released of her and Marcus together in a compromising position while he was still her guardian. She's in deep and it's up to Marcus to make a deal that could cost him his life and have to leave Empire completely to save her. He keeps this little tidbit from her for a good long while.
Surprise! Empire also has a new admirer, but is he as perfect as he appears? I think not….Get ready for some drama, spice, and everything nice! I couldn’t put this book down and was so sad it was over! I highly recommend reading this and check out the first one if you haven’t already!
August 26, 2024
Brooke Harper had me in a complete strangle hold after the first book in her Cruel Empire series so I’m glad to finally have the second book out to put me out of my misery—and boy did Fool's Gold achieve just that! If you love a good dark, Hollywood, bodyguard age gap romance this is the one for you! And watching Empire rise from the ashes, out of so much tragedy, and step into her own is a definite must read!
This story picks up where the first one left us dangling in an edge, with Marcus and Empire on the brink of so much more than just bodyguard/guardian feelings but sadly with Marcus being tied down tight with mafia connections and with creepy producers and paparazzi at every turn their love may be just too doomed. But man the steam and intense heat between these two is spectacular! This is a definite must read for anyone that loves a good dark, age gap, forbidden love romance!
This story picks up where the first one left us dangling in an edge, with Marcus and Empire on the brink of so much more than just bodyguard/guardian feelings but sadly with Marcus being tied down tight with mafia connections and with creepy producers and paparazzi at every turn their love may be just too doomed. But man the steam and intense heat between these two is spectacular! This is a definite must read for anyone that loves a good dark, age gap, forbidden love romance!
August 8, 2024
4.5 stars
My goodness! This book will have your head spinning with its twists and turns in the lives and fortunes of Empire and Marcus. Where, in book 1, I struggled to get along with these two, I found that I was becoming more involved and committed to them finding their way out of their awful situations, and their happiness. Dual POV, really helped again, as being a witness to their inner thoughts and turmoil promoted understanding and sympathy. Empire truly grew into her skin and found the makings of the adult she is becoming! And Marcus was there for it all.
The heat and pace of the book drew me in and held onto me throughout, and the added drama of the plot kept my attention. Great ending to this duet 💖💖💖💖💖
My goodness! This book will have your head spinning with its twists and turns in the lives and fortunes of Empire and Marcus. Where, in book 1, I struggled to get along with these two, I found that I was becoming more involved and committed to them finding their way out of their awful situations, and their happiness. Dual POV, really helped again, as being a witness to their inner thoughts and turmoil promoted understanding and sympathy. Empire truly grew into her skin and found the makings of the adult she is becoming! And Marcus was there for it all.
The heat and pace of the book drew me in and held onto me throughout, and the added drama of the plot kept my attention. Great ending to this duet 💖💖💖💖💖
August 14, 2024
Oh Empire and Marcus - the danger, the romance - I am so in!!
Empire just can't stay away from Marcus and oh, that push and pull is delicious. I think Marcus misunderstands Empire as a princess who wants her way when she just wants to be loved. The spiciness is *fire* and I love it!! Marcus is so protective of her and it is sweet and hot! The suspense?!? Oh yeah, it's amazing!! They have to finish a movie because the mob insists…and they do *not* play fair. Seems like a lot is going on, but it all weaves together well!
‘Fools Gold’ Is book 2 of the ‘Cruel Empire ‘ series and for full enjoyment, they must be read in order.
All in all, I found this to be an excellent mafia, age gap romance.
Empire just can't stay away from Marcus and oh, that push and pull is delicious. I think Marcus misunderstands Empire as a princess who wants her way when she just wants to be loved. The spiciness is *fire* and I love it!! Marcus is so protective of her and it is sweet and hot! The suspense?!? Oh yeah, it's amazing!! They have to finish a movie because the mob insists…and they do *not* play fair. Seems like a lot is going on, but it all weaves together well!
‘Fools Gold’ Is book 2 of the ‘Cruel Empire ‘ series and for full enjoyment, they must be read in order.
All in all, I found this to be an excellent mafia, age gap romance.
August 14, 2024
Steamy bodyguard/Mafia romance
This is book 2 and picks up right where book 1 ended. While still trying to sort through her grief of losing her parents, Empire has now realized exactly who Marcus really is and what kinds of things he's done. Marcus is still struggling with his role in Empire's life. They have undeniable chemistry and attraction, and he's still fighting it. There's lots of push and pull between them, so much tension and a rollercoaster of intense emotions. Marcus has to come to terms with what he feels and Empire has to face that part of growing up is something making the hard choices. As always with this author, the character development is just beautiful. We see Empire grow right before our eyes. Such a great book!
This is book 2 and picks up right where book 1 ended. While still trying to sort through her grief of losing her parents, Empire has now realized exactly who Marcus really is and what kinds of things he's done. Marcus is still struggling with his role in Empire's life. They have undeniable chemistry and attraction, and he's still fighting it. There's lots of push and pull between them, so much tension and a rollercoaster of intense emotions. Marcus has to come to terms with what he feels and Empire has to face that part of growing up is something making the hard choices. As always with this author, the character development is just beautiful. We see Empire grow right before our eyes. Such a great book!
August 15, 2024
I had high hopes for this has I started to finally get ibto the first book but again was back to that awkward chemistry between them. Now she is forced to preform or she coukd lose her life.
As much as I tried to get into, I was just struggling with the story line and chemistry. I was unable to even finish the book because I was losing interest. It was the same stuff, tit for tat, love hate vibe going on still. Which was putting me off.
I am sorry if the rest of the book improved but I was struggling to continue but I am not completly against the book. I was just not feeling it (sorry 🫣) I was just hoping for more and it was just not enough for me.
Thanks for allowing me to read your book and letting me give you my honest review.
As much as I tried to get into, I was just struggling with the story line and chemistry. I was unable to even finish the book because I was losing interest. It was the same stuff, tit for tat, love hate vibe going on still. Which was putting me off.
I am sorry if the rest of the book improved but I was struggling to continue but I am not completly against the book. I was just not feeling it (sorry 🫣) I was just hoping for more and it was just not enough for me.
Thanks for allowing me to read your book and letting me give you my honest review.
September 2, 2024
BROOKE!?!? THIS BOOK?!?!? ABSOLUTE PERFECTION! Holy sh*t, sorry to swear, but this book was iconic. Okay, I am going to try and make this spoil-free! This is a dark romance, with bodyguard vibes... and if you need more, you get some hot and spicy characters and all the Hollywood vibes. I loved loved loved the writing in this book, and the suspense was such a slay. This story had me hooked and I kept dying to know what was going to happen next. I found this book so unique, and really transcendent from the typical dark romances. 10 stars for you Brooke <3
Overall I'd definitely read this book again and I would recommend this book for fans of other dark romance books. Overall I'd definitely read this book again and I would recommend this book for fans of other romance books.
August 8, 2024
Empire and Marcus
This book held my interest throughout. It was filled with twists and turns and a few revelations.
We also got more spice, drama, so many feelings, and just a bit of suspense.
I'll be honest I went back and forth on my feelings towards both main characters. They frustrated me at times with their constant push and pull.
At the same time, their chemistry and connection was undeniable.
Towards the end, I was pleased to see the growth and strength in Empire. She proved to be a good match and just what Marcus needed.
Overall, I think it was a great duet and I'm glad they got their happy ending!
This book held my interest throughout. It was filled with twists and turns and a few revelations.
We also got more spice, drama, so many feelings, and just a bit of suspense.
I'll be honest I went back and forth on my feelings towards both main characters. They frustrated me at times with their constant push and pull.
At the same time, their chemistry and connection was undeniable.
Towards the end, I was pleased to see the growth and strength in Empire. She proved to be a good match and just what Marcus needed.
Overall, I think it was a great duet and I'm glad they got their happy ending!
August 9, 2024
This book literally picks up from where the first book ended.
Empire felt like her world had completely fallen apart when she felt like she lost Marcus. She ends up leaving Marcus as she thinks he’s betrayed her when he signed the papers.
During this book we see lots of ups and downs, we see a protective Marcus who will do anything to keep Empire safe from the mafia and his dodgy past.
I really enjoy seeing POV’s from both sides as I love how get an insight to both sides of how the pair are feeling.
The intensity between Empire and Marcus have is definitely hot.
We end up seeing Empire starting to grow up and not just the grieving teenager we saw in the first book.
Empire felt like her world had completely fallen apart when she felt like she lost Marcus. She ends up leaving Marcus as she thinks he’s betrayed her when he signed the papers.
During this book we see lots of ups and downs, we see a protective Marcus who will do anything to keep Empire safe from the mafia and his dodgy past.
I really enjoy seeing POV’s from both sides as I love how get an insight to both sides of how the pair are feeling.
The intensity between Empire and Marcus have is definitely hot.
We end up seeing Empire starting to grow up and not just the grieving teenager we saw in the first book.
August 10, 2024
Fool's Gold continues the sizzling and heart wrenching tale of Empire and Marcus! This dark romantic read starts right where we left off on in book 1 and the action doesn't miss a beat. There was so many more intensely heated moments between the two that will have readers fan themselves in delight. However, Marcus has a habit of pushing Empire away no matter how much the feelings continue to bubble to the surface. While he has good intentions, they have both been through so much I just wanted to see them have their HEA. This fiery duet really had it all, and I am here for all the delicious dark moments for Empire and Marcus!
August 10, 2024
Brooke brings us another fantastic book in the Cruel Empire series! The story of Empire and Marcus continues from where book 1 left us. Feeling betrayed by the paperwork to free Marcus from being Empire's hiardu, she leaves him, not realising the danger that she's in that Marcus is trying to protect her from. Through twists, turns, ups and downs, Empire and Marcus are trying to find their way. Dive into this wonderfully written book with complex characters and plot twists that keep you glued to it throughout. I loved reading this story and highly recommend the series. Don't miss out on this book!!
August 14, 2024
I'll start by saying if you haven't read book 1 then please read that first - the emotions will not have anywhere near the same impact.
CHEMISTRY! Wow - Empire and Marcus' chemistry is off the charts and the intense agony of waiting and all the push and pull makes this romance an absolute cracker.
It's action packed and full to the brim with the feels and all the waves of Marcus and Empire's tumultuous relationship as he tries to protect her (without telling her of course)
I love the ending and if you like reading a romance with all the ups and downs of a yoyo and a side of danger then this is for you.
CHEMISTRY! Wow - Empire and Marcus' chemistry is off the charts and the intense agony of waiting and all the push and pull makes this romance an absolute cracker.
It's action packed and full to the brim with the feels and all the waves of Marcus and Empire's tumultuous relationship as he tries to protect her (without telling her of course)
I love the ending and if you like reading a romance with all the ups and downs of a yoyo and a side of danger then this is for you.
August 7, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book. Once I started reading Fool's Gold, I didn't want to put it down. I wanted to keep reading so I could see what was going to happen next. The characters are great and the storyline hooked me from the start. I don't want to spoil this book for anyone, so I won't go into details. Please read the book blurb for some information about the book. I recommend reading this book! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 8, 2024
Marcus and Empire are toxic together, but they just can’t quit each other.
Empire does seem more whiney and petulant in this book, but then again, she is only 18 years old.
Marcus’s sordid past comes back to bite him in the a$$ and all he tries to do is keep Empire safe and out of the clutches from his old Mafia life.
Fighting, emotional damage and hot forbidden encounters circle around Marcus and Empire throughout the story.
Empire finally grows a bit of backbone and maturity towards the end and redefines herself. Overall it was a solid ending to their story. 4 ⭐️’s.
~Kim💜
Empire does seem more whiney and petulant in this book, but then again, she is only 18 years old.
Marcus’s sordid past comes back to bite him in the a$$ and all he tries to do is keep Empire safe and out of the clutches from his old Mafia life.
Fighting, emotional damage and hot forbidden encounters circle around Marcus and Empire throughout the story.
Empire finally grows a bit of backbone and maturity towards the end and redefines herself. Overall it was a solid ending to their story. 4 ⭐️’s.
~Kim💜
August 9, 2024
This is book 2 in Harper's Cruel Empire series. A wonderful addition to this series as this book picks up right where book 1 (All That Glitters) leaves us. Harper takes our main characters Empire and Marcus and us on a roller coaster of a ride in all the ups and downs and twists and turns in this read. Plenty of sizzle as well as drama and emotions to be had here and I was hooked! Didn't want it to end but loved the way that it did!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2024
'Fool's Gold' by Brooke Harper, is the second book in the 'Cruel Empire' Series and wow. This second installment has us pick right up from the first and we get all of the drama, miscommunication, thrills, and best of all, we get to see our main characters and their perspectives. It's not often that we can see this side of things when we are deep into the situation, but this view for the reader is fascinating and brings us along on this thrilling ride. There is so much to unpack so I can't wait for the next installment!
August 21, 2024
Ohhhhh the drama!!!!
i so love this book!
I hate you/i love you/i want you/i can't have you all this back and forth between the two main characters is to die for!
I also love the older/younger trope.
This is the second book in this duet and i have to say watching these two was amazing.
Marcus does his best to handle the Mafia and at the same time handle Empire and at the same time Empire does ger best to handle Marcus and herself.
It was fun watching Empire growing and it was fun also watching Marcus.
Fast paced and filled with action this books was an amazing closure to this duet.
i so love this book!
I hate you/i love you/i want you/i can't have you all this back and forth between the two main characters is to die for!
I also love the older/younger trope.
This is the second book in this duet and i have to say watching these two was amazing.
Marcus does his best to handle the Mafia and at the same time handle Empire and at the same time Empire does ger best to handle Marcus and herself.
It was fun watching Empire growing and it was fun also watching Marcus.
Fast paced and filled with action this books was an amazing closure to this duet.
August 21, 2024
OK… So I love the story and the author did a great job with the world building, but I’m a little annoyed with both the FMC and the MMC. I love tension and drama and all of that was absolutely fantastic… But Good Lord Marcus this man is driving me crazy. I hate the flippy floppy emotional BS.
With that being said, the spice was fantastic… The tension and the chemistry was amazing and I was on the edge of my seat while I was reading this story… I’m just annoyed because-just read it and you’ll find out why I’m irritated with these two… I’m just probably gonna be stewing over this for a while
With that being said, the spice was fantastic… The tension and the chemistry was amazing and I was on the edge of my seat while I was reading this story… I’m just annoyed because-just read it and you’ll find out why I’m irritated with these two… I’m just probably gonna be stewing over this for a while
August 3, 2024
I really struggled to like Empire in this book. She is whiney, needy spoiled brat who can't seem to think for herself. She finally grows up by the end up becomes the woman who is a match for Marcus. Marcus is still a control freak who can't seem to figure out how to stay away from her. Their relationship is completely toxic but you keep rooting for them the whole book. Loved the twists in this book that kept me guessing as to what is really going on.
August 6, 2024
I loved this ending of Empire and Marcus's story. They had a long hard fight to get through everything, with deceptions on all sides, but Empire finally realised that she was strong enough to fight for Marcus and fight she did!
Marcus, as usual, made too many decisions without talking to Empire and I definitely wanted to shake some sense into him at times but he felt it was the only way to deal with matters.
Marcus, as usual, made too many decisions without talking to Empire and I definitely wanted to shake some sense into him at times but he felt it was the only way to deal with matters.
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