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Blood and Thorns Duet #2
איחוד חסר רחמים
שלדים נופלים מן הארון כשהזיכרונות חוזרים אליי.
הכול השתנה בן לילה.
האמת הפכה להיות האויב שלי, ודקירת הבגידה גררה אותי אל תוך רשת של שקרים.
אוי לי אם אילחם כדי לחיות, ואוי לי אם אמות.
הסודות האפלים, בהם אני נזכרת, עלולים לקרוע לגזרים את נישואיי.
אהבה היא מיתוס, שאסור היה לנו לחקור.
בעלי תמיד היה האויב שלי.
האהבה פשוט גרמה לי לשכוח, ועיוורה את עיניי.
ידו האכזרית של המוות, היא התשובה היחידה, כשהגורל האכזר משתלט.
או שהמוות יקבור אותי לצד חטאיו של אבי.
הכול השתנה בן לילה.
האמת הפכה להיות האויב שלי, ודקירת הבגידה גררה אותי אל תוך רשת של שקרים.
אוי לי אם אילחם כדי לחיות, ואוי לי אם אמות.
הסודות האפלים, בהם אני נזכרת, עלולים לקרוע לגזרים את נישואיי.
אהבה היא מיתוס, שאסור היה לנו לחקור.
בעלי תמיד היה האויב שלי.
האהבה פשוט גרמה לי לשכוח, ועיוורה את עיניי.
ידו האכזרית של המוות, היא התשובה היחידה, כשהגורל האכזר משתלט.
או שהמוות יקבור אותי לצד חטאיו של אבי.
385 pages, Paperback
First published July 18, 2021
274 people are currently reading
768 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
October 1, 2021
First of all I want to appreciate the cover, the person is exactly what the author depicts Aria to be and the L tattoo on her ring finger is just chef's kiss. This was way exciting than the first book. The twists and turns kept coming and I was on the edge until the end. I don't want to spoil but this book had one of the most satisfying ends to a child predator. The last chapter and the epilogue nearly had me in tears. Overall this was amazing.
December 1, 2021
This is the conclusion to the blood and thorns duet and begins right where we left off in the previous book. Lucca had been shot and presumed dead by Aria whilst she finds herself kidnapped and back in her fathers not so loving care.
As well as all the old faces we have new enemies added to the mix and the fallout from previous events forces Lucca to revaluate all his priorities especially when it comes to Aria and just how far he’ll go to keep her safe. But all this new information and transparency on Lucca’s part means Aria is struggling and Lucca is going to have to fight tooth and nail if he wants to win back his wife’s trust.
There were plenty of further revelations here and this was fast-paced right till the finish my heart was in my mouth so many times it was that nerve-racking definitely recommend this series it’s been quite the ride.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Merciless Union (Blood and Thorns duet #2).
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
July 23, 2021
If you thought that ending on Merciless Vows was intense, wait until you read Merciless Union. It picks up where we left on MV and it didn’t slow down.
Luca and Aria’s future was very questionable, but I could only hope they would get their HEA. Seeing the betrayal and who was the cause had me hoping that Lucca would bring his vengeance to them. I think I’ve said too much but know that this will be a suspenseful and fast paced read. This is one heck of a ride that will leave you speechless and just amazed at the writing. Once you start Merciless Union, you won’t want it to end. Thank you for such an amazing read and I cannot wait for what else you will grace us with. Kara~ 5 Stars
Luca and Aria’s future was very questionable, but I could only hope they would get their HEA. Seeing the betrayal and who was the cause had me hoping that Lucca would bring his vengeance to them. I think I’ve said too much but know that this will be a suspenseful and fast paced read. This is one heck of a ride that will leave you speechless and just amazed at the writing. Once you start Merciless Union, you won’t want it to end. Thank you for such an amazing read and I cannot wait for what else you will grace us with. Kara~ 5 Stars
August 13, 2022
My first book by this author and I loved everything about this duet….
The writing was absolutely beautiful. This was intense, suspenseful with fast paced action, many twists and turns, sizzling romance and off-the-chart chemistry between Lucca and Aria. Their complex story was emotionally draining and those two were wonderful complicated characters. It could not have been more detailed and well-crafted.
Without forgetting the whole cast of devil and good secondary characters who contributed magnificently to make this story even more interesting. Now, I'm dying to read her Dark Syndicate series, and particularly book 4 Merciless Hunter which tells the story of Olivia and Aiden, two of the supporting characters of this duo that I liked very much.
I listened to the audio version and the choice of narrators for this story for me was key! ❣️
July 6, 2024
The second half of the Duet is marginally better than the first book because for the most part the secrets are out but there was less graphic sex scenes. I still do not at all understand the Lucca/Aria time line. This is my timeline confusion. Spoilers: This whole duet (both books) was convoluted in the plot and the time line for me. Also, I'm pretty sure you can't harvest, even illegally, organs from people that were murdered and bled out 12 hours or more earlier.
Additonally, Merciless is the most feared and best assassin and yet when he needs to be at the top of his game, he totally blows it. Spoiler This was just inexcusable and unbelievable. There were plenty of other places I had to suspend disbelief, but this one was too much for me to be able to do so.
I'm glad they are getting their HEA, they deserve it with all the gruesome murders and constant betrayal they both endured.
Additonally, Merciless is the most feared and best assassin and yet when he needs to be at the top of his game, he totally blows it. Spoiler This was just inexcusable and unbelievable. There were plenty of other places I had to suspend disbelief, but this one was too much for me to be able to do so.
I'm glad they are getting their HEA, they deserve it with all the gruesome murders and constant betrayal they both endured.
November 30, 2022
The conclusion to Luca and Aria’s saga. The plot of this duet has everything thrown in including The kitchen sink. Everything is just too much…. Word of wisdom- sometimes less is more… stars that is. For instance Aria’s so called father — The Governor— reminds me of A knockoff TWD character— But this ain’t no zombie apocalypse 😳 Also the timeline was weird for this duet.
I got bored with all the filler but the actual love story was good.
I got bored with all the filler but the actual love story was good.
June 18, 2024
Entretenido. La trama es predecible pero entretiene.
August 22, 2021
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars! Great conclusion to this awesome duet. Many people got their just desserts. Well written, had me on the edge of my seat.
July 20, 2021
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4.5/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : None
Hero : Lucca
Heroine : Aria
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 5/10
Heat Rating : 6/10
Triggers Involved : Past Trauma , Kidnapping
Plot Summary :
Lucca has been betrayed by the one person he trusted the most. Now his wife was in danger and he just knew that nothing would ever be the same again. He had no one on his side but his need to destroy their enemies has not been diminished yet. He will win in the end and nothing will keep him from getting his wife back.
Aria fell in love. And that fact made her forget the fact that her husband was always her enemy. He has his sight set on her company and nothing was going to stop him from taking that from her. She knows that she needs to save herself but she just can’t stay away from him. When Betrayal hits them again she knows that it is time for them to unite and finally destroy their enemies. Then Maybe finally they will get the ending they always deserved.
Overall Opinion :
I have been waiting for this book for such a long time! I just loved this conclusion so much. The plot twists are amazing and I just can’t get enough of lucca and Aria. They both were perfect for each other and their tale that has been spanning over for years is now finally over. The ending was amazing and I am so excited for more from this author!
I have read every single book by this author and I love the way she merges her book worlds into one and other. We got to see a few characters from her past books and that was the best part for me. I just love that so much! This book also had a few side characters and I hope that we get more stories from this world.
I would definitely recommend this book to all the dark romance living people out there!
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July 25, 2021
TW: pedophilia, bloody murder scenes, sexual assault..it's dark mafia.
So after reading 2 back to back books that bored me this one was a breath of fresh air. It's book 2 in the duet so book 1 has to be read first. I liked it but i will admit the storyline was a bit cheesy to me.. the author added many plot points and suspenseful things that to me were added randomly to give the story a wow factor but it just made it comical to me but i kept reading because while the storyline was a bit meh the writing was fantastic the author just needs to work on plot points and timelines and what not. Over really a decent read.
So after reading 2 back to back books that bored me this one was a breath of fresh air. It's book 2 in the duet so book 1 has to be read first. I liked it but i will admit the storyline was a bit cheesy to me.. the author added many plot points and suspenseful things that to me were added randomly to give the story a wow factor but it just made it comical to me but i kept reading because while the storyline was a bit meh the writing was fantastic the author just needs to work on plot points and timelines and what not. Over really a decent read.
July 20, 2021
Merciless Union
the final chapter in the
Blood and Thorns Duet
series continues right off from the cliffhanger ending in
Merciless Vows.
Just when you thought you had seen and heard it all when it came to Aria and Lucca’s story, even more craziness continues to occurs with all the chaos that ensues throughout.
Although the suspense resumes to build in Merciless Union surrounding the mysteries of the yet uncovered secrets alluded to in Merciless Vows. However slowly but surely missiles bombs are continuously dropped and/or uncovered all through the narrative in the form of explosive secrets that leave your mind reeling with shock and surprise from the mind-blowing, jaw-dropping truth reveals. Faith did a number on me which had me reeling with the continuation of one after another mystery reveals. Although some of them I had seen coming, others completely blew my mind with the unexpectedness of it. Leading me to grip on tighter with devouring each page that was this wild mayhem rollercoaster ride of a story that was Merciless Union.
At the same time, the feels and emotions that were pouring out from every page in regards to Aria and Lucca was deeply heartfelt and had you sympathising for both. With what transpires for them upon the revelations of the secrets, lies and betrayals, you couldn't help but feel heartbroken. Especially with having to watch both being tested to their limits upon the betrayals they face. Resulting in Aria and Lucca being torn down and broken to pieces with trying to deal with the repercussions from aftermath stain it had left on either of them.
Faith Summers definitely created an explosive narrative with Merciless Union that had you wavering all throughout, given the fillings used to make up this story. From mystery, suspense, drama, angst to betrayal, secrets, lies and action creating a staggering thriller of a book.
Despite having had mixed feelings after reading Merciless Vows, with having read Merciless Union it is safe to say not only did Faith lure me back in. But with this story she redeemed the duet series for me on a whole.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Merciless Union and was happy to see Lucca and Aria survive everything and come through on the other side with a well deserved HEA, considering all that they’d been through. Faith Summers definitely did a great job with writing the Blood and Thorns Duet series.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Just when you thought you had seen and heard it all when it came to Aria and Lucca’s story, even more craziness continues to occurs with all the chaos that ensues throughout.
Although the suspense resumes to build in Merciless Union surrounding the mysteries of the yet uncovered secrets alluded to in Merciless Vows. However slowly but surely missiles bombs are continuously dropped and/or uncovered all through the narrative in the form of explosive secrets that leave your mind reeling with shock and surprise from the mind-blowing, jaw-dropping truth reveals. Faith did a number on me which had me reeling with the continuation of one after another mystery reveals. Although some of them I had seen coming, others completely blew my mind with the unexpectedness of it. Leading me to grip on tighter with devouring each page that was this wild mayhem rollercoaster ride of a story that was Merciless Union.
At the same time, the feels and emotions that were pouring out from every page in regards to Aria and Lucca was deeply heartfelt and had you sympathising for both. With what transpires for them upon the revelations of the secrets, lies and betrayals, you couldn't help but feel heartbroken. Especially with having to watch both being tested to their limits upon the betrayals they face. Resulting in Aria and Lucca being torn down and broken to pieces with trying to deal with the repercussions from aftermath stain it had left on either of them.
Faith Summers definitely created an explosive narrative with Merciless Union that had you wavering all throughout, given the fillings used to make up this story. From mystery, suspense, drama, angst to betrayal, secrets, lies and action creating a staggering thriller of a book.
Despite having had mixed feelings after reading Merciless Vows, with having read Merciless Union it is safe to say not only did Faith lure me back in. But with this story she redeemed the duet series for me on a whole.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Merciless Union and was happy to see Lucca and Aria survive everything and come through on the other side with a well deserved HEA, considering all that they’d been through. Faith Summers definitely did a great job with writing the Blood and Thorns Duet series.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2021
What a conclusion!!!!
This duet was jaw droppingly rich in content, with characters that keep on surprising and pages you can't help turning..... meaning you'll have no sleep if you start this at bedtime!!! Like me....!!!
I'm not going to write much here but the end of book one, where we learn that Jon betrays Lucca....? He's not the only one...
The history and info lucca started digging into when he began researching into Raphael goes much deeper and spreads much further than he ever could have imagined. Loyalties, finances and selfish, greedy desires are all tangled up together and it all boils down to one sordid little secret.
Aria faces her monster again who again, abuses her, in a different manner, but even so he still does so, after she was kidnapped by Jon and taken to a house where she's held by her father. She's trying to face things about him and his part with her mothers death AND his role in giving the monstdr access to her at 5yrs old....
When she gets back home, she returns her sessions with the psychiatrist who is really helping. With great horror she remembers who the man is that shot her mother. Rushing to tell lucca immediately, she's dismayed when he doesn't believe her.
But really I don't think it's that. Poor Luca hasn't had a lot of people he trusts in his life, so when one is accused of something so heinous, it's more a fact he doesn't WANT it to be true....
As Lucca unravels the tangle of the Big Secret, all hell breaks loose whenever there are 2 sides facing off each other. More and more truths are revealed. More and more snakes are forced into the spotlight and dealt with...
At the end once again, it seems to lucca and Aria facing death more closely and we're left wondering how they're going to escape THIS time.
A great story with so many intertwined tales, with lucca and Aria as children, aria losing her memory and trying to get it back, Lucca and Damien plotting to take down Raphael, lucca and aria getting closer and the biggest storyline behind it constantly, the Big Secret. Its well paced, well delivered, written well, with superb characters!
I have to admit to not often reading bratva or Russian Mafia tales. I tend to err towards Italian or Cosa Nostra types. But this has changed my mind and I'm headed in that direction!!!
I received a copy of the ebook in return for an honest review
This duet was jaw droppingly rich in content, with characters that keep on surprising and pages you can't help turning..... meaning you'll have no sleep if you start this at bedtime!!! Like me....!!!
I'm not going to write much here but the end of book one, where we learn that Jon betrays Lucca....? He's not the only one...
The history and info lucca started digging into when he began researching into Raphael goes much deeper and spreads much further than he ever could have imagined. Loyalties, finances and selfish, greedy desires are all tangled up together and it all boils down to one sordid little secret.
Aria faces her monster again who again, abuses her, in a different manner, but even so he still does so, after she was kidnapped by Jon and taken to a house where she's held by her father. She's trying to face things about him and his part with her mothers death AND his role in giving the monstdr access to her at 5yrs old....
When she gets back home, she returns her sessions with the psychiatrist who is really helping. With great horror she remembers who the man is that shot her mother. Rushing to tell lucca immediately, she's dismayed when he doesn't believe her.
But really I don't think it's that. Poor Luca hasn't had a lot of people he trusts in his life, so when one is accused of something so heinous, it's more a fact he doesn't WANT it to be true....
As Lucca unravels the tangle of the Big Secret, all hell breaks loose whenever there are 2 sides facing off each other. More and more truths are revealed. More and more snakes are forced into the spotlight and dealt with...
At the end once again, it seems to lucca and Aria facing death more closely and we're left wondering how they're going to escape THIS time.
A great story with so many intertwined tales, with lucca and Aria as children, aria losing her memory and trying to get it back, Lucca and Damien plotting to take down Raphael, lucca and aria getting closer and the biggest storyline behind it constantly, the Big Secret. Its well paced, well delivered, written well, with superb characters!
I have to admit to not often reading bratva or Russian Mafia tales. I tend to err towards Italian or Cosa Nostra types. But this has changed my mind and I'm headed in that direction!!!
I received a copy of the ebook in return for an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2021
Gripping. Action-packed. And definitely DARK.
Lucca and Aria’s story had left us at a thrilling cliffhanger in book 1, Merciless Vows, and this book absolutely lives up to its expectations!
Aria has lost her memories in an accident that changed her life a couple of years ago, the only consistent piece of memory she has is from her childhood, about a boy named Peter, who used to call her Wendy. What she comes to realize is that her brain is actually suppressing some memories for a reason, to protect her from the vile, dreadful truths of her past. She is a critical pawn in a dangerous game of greed and deceit. Luca is one of the players in this game, out on a mission for vendetta. He kidnaps and forcefully marries Aria as a part of his revenge. But there is more to his story, not just with Aria, but also with his own personal demons from his past, and as the truths are revealed layer by layer, this story takes you on a thrilling ride that you cannot put down until you reach the end!
If you like dark romances and don’t have triggers, I definitely recommend this duet!
PS - Aiden had a big role to play in this story, and I cannot wait to read his story! Can anyone help me with the name of his book?
Lucca and Aria’s story had left us at a thrilling cliffhanger in book 1, Merciless Vows, and this book absolutely lives up to its expectations!
Aria has lost her memories in an accident that changed her life a couple of years ago, the only consistent piece of memory she has is from her childhood, about a boy named Peter, who used to call her Wendy. What she comes to realize is that her brain is actually suppressing some memories for a reason, to protect her from the vile, dreadful truths of her past. She is a critical pawn in a dangerous game of greed and deceit. Luca is one of the players in this game, out on a mission for vendetta. He kidnaps and forcefully marries Aria as a part of his revenge. But there is more to his story, not just with Aria, but also with his own personal demons from his past, and as the truths are revealed layer by layer, this story takes you on a thrilling ride that you cannot put down until you reach the end!
If you like dark romances and don’t have triggers, I definitely recommend this duet!
PS - Aiden had a big role to play in this story, and I cannot wait to read his story! Can anyone help me with the name of his book?
July 24, 2021
What an ending to the duet
A masterful ending to the duet. This story is heart breaking. It will break your heart, mend it and then break it again. The suspense in this book is so intense and we'll written that it gets hard to leave the book. My heart goes out to the two protagonists, Lucca and Aria. Both have gone through soo much already, but the things that unravel in this book are just insane and I have no idea how someone survives these secrets unravelling. They are super strong characters with loads of emotional baggage and trauma attached to their childhood and adult life.
Some elements of the story revolve around sexual child abuse. This part really made me uncomfortable. Faith summers doesn't really cover the brutality of abuse. She writes it the way it should be written. This can also be a trigger for some.
The one part that affects my rating is that I somewhere was able to predict the ending, as in who did it. And it wasn't really a surprise for me.
However, this book is super well written, with an epic cast of characters who are morally grey. All mafia romance lovers should pick this duet up. It will be worth your time for sure.
A masterful ending to the duet. This story is heart breaking. It will break your heart, mend it and then break it again. The suspense in this book is so intense and we'll written that it gets hard to leave the book. My heart goes out to the two protagonists, Lucca and Aria. Both have gone through soo much already, but the things that unravel in this book are just insane and I have no idea how someone survives these secrets unravelling. They are super strong characters with loads of emotional baggage and trauma attached to their childhood and adult life.
Some elements of the story revolve around sexual child abuse. This part really made me uncomfortable. Faith summers doesn't really cover the brutality of abuse. She writes it the way it should be written. This can also be a trigger for some.
The one part that affects my rating is that I somewhere was able to predict the ending, as in who did it. And it wasn't really a surprise for me.
However, this book is super well written, with an epic cast of characters who are morally grey. All mafia romance lovers should pick this duet up. It will be worth your time for sure.
August 4, 2022
Sooooooo …. the bad guy is SO bad, it’s becoming unbelievable that someone, even a fictional character, could be so cruel and evil.
August 18, 2021
So Merciless Union is the last book in the Blood and Thorns duet. We start where the first one ended and we all know that Aria is in a bad situation with her life and Lucca could be dead. In this book we will get a lot of questions answered and find out that there are more twists and turns then we ever thought possible.
I will say there are some issues in this book that had me questioning human strength and thoughts. Lucca doesn't always make the smartest moves, and seems to have super human strength after having a gut shot. And Aria has issues with her memory and thoughts about Lucca but always seems to end up sleeping with him. BUT I had to keep reminding myself that this is fiction and that he is supposed to be a HERO. Movies do this all the time so why not a book.
Merciless Union is another enjoyable ending to a duet.
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I will say there are some issues in this book that had me questioning human strength and thoughts. Lucca doesn't always make the smartest moves, and seems to have super human strength after having a gut shot. And Aria has issues with her memory and thoughts about Lucca but always seems to end up sleeping with him. BUT I had to keep reminding myself that this is fiction and that he is supposed to be a HERO. Movies do this all the time so why not a book.
Merciless Union is another enjoyable ending to a duet.
Blog: http://myfantasylandblog.com/
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September 14, 2021
After the amazing revelation the first book in the Blood and Thorns Duet was for me, I couldn’t wait to continue Lucca and Aria’s journey in Merciless Union. This second installment was simply electrifying! I loved every single instant of my read, packed with outrageous disclosures, sinfully hot encounters, profound feelings and it had adrenaline coursing through my veins from all the action. I was appalled at some deeply disturbing secrets unveiled and swooned over the evolution of Lucca and Aria’s romance that got truly breathtaking. This world of violence, corruption and depravity was utterly mesmerizing with its sparks of light, hope and devotion. Faith Summers is an author I look forward to reading more of her backlist novels. This duet was simply magnetic on all levels!
September 24, 2023
הגעתי לסופרת במקרה כי לא ראיתי הרבה א ליזכורים ברשת אליה.
דואט מאפיה עם כל מה שאני אוהבת. נקמה, חטיפה וטוויסטים.
דואט מאפיה עם כל מה שאני אוהבת. נקמה, חטיפה וטוויסטים.
January 11, 2022
Dramatically epic love story where light and love outshines and prevails despite the darkness
Merciless Union: A Dark Mafia Arranged Marriage Romance (Blood and Thorns Duet Book 2) by Faith Summers is a sweepingly dramatic conclusion of Aria and Lucca's love story. Blood and Thorns is a fitting description as blood is life and thorns hurt. There is so much hurt and darkness in their lives, from their individual youths to the present, together and apart. But because of their heartfelt and precious beginning as children, you can't help but hope for this love to surpass any and all obstacles.
As one would expect from a dark, mafia world romance, the plot places each of them in peril (repeated) and the vile evilness that surrounds them is a constant presence that suffocates and blankets every good thing with danger lingering in the air. This book was a page turner as little nuggets of revelations are spread throughout. With each new revelation, I was simply compelled to continue to see what Lucca and Aria would do or what evil antagonism would befall them next. It's a constant back and forth giving the reader that sense of just waiting for the other shoe to drop and put our hero and heroine in peril once again. But it's not only their dark world, the mafia elements and danger that make this such a compelling read. Aria's amnesia, the forced marriage, trauma from her childhood and coming to terms with what she should want and what her heart wants is just the tip of the ice berg. In addition to the action, the steamy interludes with Lucca, there is a deeply emotional and psychological aspect as well. And it's not just Aria that goes through it. Lucca has his own deeply disturbing emotional and psychological issues to deal with both past and newly present.
While the dark romance elements and the mafia world make this book intriguing, the characters make it exceptional.
Overall, Lucca and Aria are stronger together and prevail against all the odds. Their love shines through giving them the impetus to survive. Not only do they survive, but Aria thrives and Lucca basks in the glow of his, Aria's and their family's HEA.
Merciless Union: A Dark Mafia Arranged Marriage Romance (Blood and Thorns Duet Book 2) by Faith Summers is a sweepingly dramatic conclusion of Aria and Lucca's love story. Blood and Thorns is a fitting description as blood is life and thorns hurt. There is so much hurt and darkness in their lives, from their individual youths to the present, together and apart. But because of their heartfelt and precious beginning as children, you can't help but hope for this love to surpass any and all obstacles.
As one would expect from a dark, mafia world romance, the plot places each of them in peril (repeated) and the vile evilness that surrounds them is a constant presence that suffocates and blankets every good thing with danger lingering in the air. This book was a page turner as little nuggets of revelations are spread throughout. With each new revelation, I was simply compelled to continue to see what Lucca and Aria would do or what evil antagonism would befall them next. It's a constant back and forth giving the reader that sense of just waiting for the other shoe to drop and put our hero and heroine in peril once again. But it's not only their dark world, the mafia elements and danger that make this such a compelling read. Aria's amnesia, the forced marriage, trauma from her childhood and coming to terms with what she should want and what her heart wants is just the tip of the ice berg. In addition to the action, the steamy interludes with Lucca, there is a deeply emotional and psychological aspect as well. And it's not just Aria that goes through it. Lucca has his own deeply disturbing emotional and psychological issues to deal with both past and newly present.
While the dark romance elements and the mafia world make this book intriguing, the characters make it exceptional.
Overall, Lucca and Aria are stronger together and prevail against all the odds. Their love shines through giving them the impetus to survive. Not only do they survive, but Aria thrives and Lucca basks in the glow of his, Aria's and their family's HEA.
July 19, 2021
4.25stars-MERCILESS UNION is the second and final instalment in Faith Summers’ (aka Khardine Gray) contemporary, adult BLOOD AND THORNS dark, erotic, Mafia, romance duet focusing on soon to be twenty-five year old Italian Mafia princess Aria De Marchi, and twenty-eight year old, Bratva assassin Lucca Dyshekov. MERCILESS UNION should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the cliff-hanger of book one MERCILESS VOWS.
WARNING: Due to the graphic nature of the story line premise and content, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
NOTE: If you have not read book one, there may be spoilers in my review.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Aria and Lucca) MERCILESS UNION picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of book one MERCILESS VOWS. Lucca Dyshekov’s compound came under attack leaving Lucca fighting for his life, and Aria a captive of the men in charge. Struggling to survive but barely holding on, Aria battles between head and heart as secrets from the past begin to reveal betrayal at every level including from the man with whom she is falling in love. As Lucca makes plans to rescue his wife, he will discover that the deception and dishonesty knows no boundaries, as most of his life has been predicated upon a lie. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Lucca and Aria, and the potential fall-out a our couple find themselves in the direct line of fire, without the ability to trust anyone including those once thought to be family and friends.
MERCILESS UNION, like Merciless Vows, is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and revenge, power, control, greed and obsession, hopelessness and love. Faith Summers pulls the reader into a dark, gritty, raw and untamed world of organized crime-the greed and fight for power; the sickness of some people as they fight their way to the top. The premise is edgy, startling, dramatic and intense; the romance struggles in the face of secrets and lies; the characters are passionate, heart breaking, broken yet strong.
www.thereadingcafe.com
WARNING: Due to the graphic nature of the story line premise and content, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
NOTE: If you have not read book one, there may be spoilers in my review.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Aria and Lucca) MERCILESS UNION picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of book one MERCILESS VOWS. Lucca Dyshekov’s compound came under attack leaving Lucca fighting for his life, and Aria a captive of the men in charge. Struggling to survive but barely holding on, Aria battles between head and heart as secrets from the past begin to reveal betrayal at every level including from the man with whom she is falling in love. As Lucca makes plans to rescue his wife, he will discover that the deception and dishonesty knows no boundaries, as most of his life has been predicated upon a lie. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship between Lucca and Aria, and the potential fall-out a our couple find themselves in the direct line of fire, without the ability to trust anyone including those once thought to be family and friends.
MERCILESS UNION, like Merciless Vows, is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and revenge, power, control, greed and obsession, hopelessness and love. Faith Summers pulls the reader into a dark, gritty, raw and untamed world of organized crime-the greed and fight for power; the sickness of some people as they fight their way to the top. The premise is edgy, startling, dramatic and intense; the romance struggles in the face of secrets and lies; the characters are passionate, heart breaking, broken yet strong.
www.thereadingcafe.com
August 8, 2021
Merciless Union is the second book in the Blood and Thorns Duet by Faith Summers and it was so good! It starts immediately where the first book left off after the sudden betrayal of a close friend of Lucca’s and the kidnapping of Aria. Dark times are ahead of them and if Lucca survives his injuries, can Aria and Lucca survive the truth as it’s slowly revealed to them. Secrets unfold from everyone and it’s hard to wrap your head around the constant betrayal but the only thing that seems to be a positive comes from Aria and Lucca’s union. They literally fight through so much to get back to each other. Aria is fighting to get her memories back, to feel whole and to be the person who loved Lucca and Lucca is fighting almost everyone to be with Aria and he’s fighting to be the person she needs him to be. This was a great conclusion to their story.
I couldn’t put this down! I was so excited to see a really strong crossover between the Dark Syndicate series and this one. I was glad that although Lucca and Aria’s m families were basically gone, they had a Bratva family they could turn to. I was also really pleased with the support with the psychiatrist, Dr. Belmont. It was nice seeing Aria have that unconditional support outside of the world she was thrown into. I really enjoyed his character! I was pretty bummed about the betrayal from the last book and the outcome for that person. I felt bad that Lucca didn’t have close friends, he seems so lonely in that sense. He has Aiden Romanov as a close friend now, but it’s not the same. I’m a big fan of big families, supportive friends and camaraderie so without all of that there was a really strong sense of loneliness. At least for Aria and Lucca, they found each other. Their story was super sweet, from a secret childhood friendship, an innocent love, into a romance filled with just so much! I loved it and I was sad to see it end! An easy recommendation for mafia romance readers!
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
I couldn’t put this down! I was so excited to see a really strong crossover between the Dark Syndicate series and this one. I was glad that although Lucca and Aria’s m families were basically gone, they had a Bratva family they could turn to. I was also really pleased with the support with the psychiatrist, Dr. Belmont. It was nice seeing Aria have that unconditional support outside of the world she was thrown into. I really enjoyed his character! I was pretty bummed about the betrayal from the last book and the outcome for that person. I felt bad that Lucca didn’t have close friends, he seems so lonely in that sense. He has Aiden Romanov as a close friend now, but it’s not the same. I’m a big fan of big families, supportive friends and camaraderie so without all of that there was a really strong sense of loneliness. At least for Aria and Lucca, they found each other. Their story was super sweet, from a secret childhood friendship, an innocent love, into a romance filled with just so much! I loved it and I was sad to see it end! An easy recommendation for mafia romance readers!
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
August 6, 2021
This has been a riveting read, two simply wonderful books you cannot put down once started
Aria has been through so much the horrors that she has endured no child or adult should have to endure especially when the person behind it is the one person that she trusted the most. Imagine her feelings as things between her and Merciless her husband seems to be improving, her memories are slowly starting to return and then she realises that some of his most trusted friends have been working with Pasha and her father.
Peter would never have believed that he would ever get his Wendy back and more importantly that she would begin to remember him, them she is once again taken from him and Maylin the woman who has been like his second mother is nearly killed by one of his brothers, he is left totally adrift.
Aria is determined that she will return to Lucca she has every faith that he will be trying to recover her from her captor but as her twenty fifth birthday draws closer her reason for living becomes less important and her father only wants to get his hands on her mother company Cervantes, all the years she never knew why he hated her so much.
As the lies are uncovered by Lucca and the fact that Pasha and his corruption is far more ingrained in the brotherhood than even his father knew, he is evil personified but also seems to have the devil himself watching out for his life.
As this book begins to draw to a conclusion you will simply find it impossible to put down, the characters and the plot is so well written.
I cannot wait for further books by this wonderful author.
I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
Aria has been through so much the horrors that she has endured no child or adult should have to endure especially when the person behind it is the one person that she trusted the most. Imagine her feelings as things between her and Merciless her husband seems to be improving, her memories are slowly starting to return and then she realises that some of his most trusted friends have been working with Pasha and her father.
Peter would never have believed that he would ever get his Wendy back and more importantly that she would begin to remember him, them she is once again taken from him and Maylin the woman who has been like his second mother is nearly killed by one of his brothers, he is left totally adrift.
Aria is determined that she will return to Lucca she has every faith that he will be trying to recover her from her captor but as her twenty fifth birthday draws closer her reason for living becomes less important and her father only wants to get his hands on her mother company Cervantes, all the years she never knew why he hated her so much.
As the lies are uncovered by Lucca and the fact that Pasha and his corruption is far more ingrained in the brotherhood than even his father knew, he is evil personified but also seems to have the devil himself watching out for his life.
As this book begins to draw to a conclusion you will simply find it impossible to put down, the characters and the plot is so well written.
I cannot wait for further books by this wonderful author.
I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
July 22, 2021
The conclusion of the Blood and Thorns Duet has many secrets coming to light with twists and turns. There is betrayal on multiple levels, death of so many innocents, the close destruction of a brotherhood, and the desperation of a man that is determined to find the truth and protect what is his at any and all costs.
Aria has blocked out so much of her past and when it begins to see the light of day, the danger is at every turn. She finds herself in dangerous situations constantly and has to fight for the strength within to survive, she also has to find the strength to make the correct decision when given two options from Lucca. Can she see past the hurt, betrayal, and pain to follow the path with Lucca to happiness? Will the get the chance for happiness?
Lucca finds betrayal at every turn it seems. The men and friends he thought he always has on his side are dropping like flies to turn on him and betray his trust. There are two that are the most painful for him, but it’s true that you find out who your real friends are when you’re in trouble and those that are standing beside you and helping the most are who you can trust. Lucca is realizing that he does have a heart in his chest, and it has always only beat for Aria. Now he has to convince her that they are meant to be together, but he will give her a choice, if he has to.
I loved this conclusion to the Duet. It was action packed and suspenseful, keeping me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Aria and Lucca had a special relationship that was damaged and almost destroyed and they had to fight for everything. I loved the characters and the story. I loved how the Romanov’s are part of the story and the Syndicate. I give the story a 5-star review and look forward to more books by Faith Summers.
Aria has blocked out so much of her past and when it begins to see the light of day, the danger is at every turn. She finds herself in dangerous situations constantly and has to fight for the strength within to survive, she also has to find the strength to make the correct decision when given two options from Lucca. Can she see past the hurt, betrayal, and pain to follow the path with Lucca to happiness? Will the get the chance for happiness?
Lucca finds betrayal at every turn it seems. The men and friends he thought he always has on his side are dropping like flies to turn on him and betray his trust. There are two that are the most painful for him, but it’s true that you find out who your real friends are when you’re in trouble and those that are standing beside you and helping the most are who you can trust. Lucca is realizing that he does have a heart in his chest, and it has always only beat for Aria. Now he has to convince her that they are meant to be together, but he will give her a choice, if he has to.
I loved this conclusion to the Duet. It was action packed and suspenseful, keeping me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Aria and Lucca had a special relationship that was damaged and almost destroyed and they had to fight for everything. I loved the characters and the story. I loved how the Romanov’s are part of the story and the Syndicate. I give the story a 5-star review and look forward to more books by Faith Summers.
August 6, 2021
This is the 2nd part and conclusion of the Blood and Thorns Duet that picks up right where part 1 ends. Aria is trying to discover her past memories with the help of her new therapist, deal with one dangerous situation after another and decide if she can truly trust Lucca for the man he is. Aria slowly gets her memories back only to discover one horrible event after another and Lucca is there to help as best as he can. There are some very evil men including her father, who only want Aria to get her mother’s family business and plan some horrible end for her. Lucca being a high ranking Bratva member has been working with a man he calls his father to bring down Aria’s father then betrayed by his friend Jon as he is working with Aria’s father and others to take control with much more dangerous criminal men. When Lucca sees how affected Aria is he gives her a choice to stay or leave him after he keeps her safe until her 25th birthday so she has to discover for herself is she can get over the past of Lucca’s decisions. Lucca has an uphill battle to protect Aria and everything he holds important in his life that with the help of another Mafia boss they learn of deception and dangerous situations they never thought possible. With losing his entire family at a young age Lucca grows up without love so when he gets close with Aria they both discover what love means for them and everything they’ll do to keep it. When Aria remembers what Lucca meant to her as a young girl it sets there journey onto one with a chance of love and happiness. This is most definitely one of the best mafia stories I have read! I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
July 22, 2021
Faith really cranked up the heat, suspense and drama in Merciless Union, the conclusion to the Blood and Thorns Duet. Books must be read in order. This love story is 15 years in the making. It’s filled with the hope of youth, tragedy of life, but love is literally what sets them both free. The passion and overwhelming need that Lucca and Aria have for one another will set your soul on fire for them. Hot doesn’t even begin to describe their connection. The epilogue is perfection. Just when I didn’t think I could fall for these two any harder.
Books starts off with Aria’s POV of the last chapter from Merciless Vows. We find ourselves on the edge of our sanity when the house is under attack and Aria is taken hostage. All her worst nightmares come together as she begins to gain her memories back.
Lucca is a man on a bloodthirsty mission to find his wife after he recovers from an almost fatal gunshot wound. As Lucca, with help from his only ally he can fully trust Aidan, work against the clock that is Aria’s birthday to uncover ALL the truths, Aria has major decisions about her future to make.
Truth bomb after truth bomb are dropped and the mystery thickens around this secret of Pasha’s that so many have paid the price with their lives for.
Lucca will stop at nothing to uncover all the truths, save his wife from her father’s devious plans, and give Aria everything she may want- even if that means it’s not with him.
A gift from her mother finally finds it way to Aria and it’s the greatest gift.
Books starts off with Aria’s POV of the last chapter from Merciless Vows. We find ourselves on the edge of our sanity when the house is under attack and Aria is taken hostage. All her worst nightmares come together as she begins to gain her memories back.
Lucca is a man on a bloodthirsty mission to find his wife after he recovers from an almost fatal gunshot wound. As Lucca, with help from his only ally he can fully trust Aidan, work against the clock that is Aria’s birthday to uncover ALL the truths, Aria has major decisions about her future to make.
Truth bomb after truth bomb are dropped and the mystery thickens around this secret of Pasha’s that so many have paid the price with their lives for.
Lucca will stop at nothing to uncover all the truths, save his wife from her father’s devious plans, and give Aria everything she may want- even if that means it’s not with him.
A gift from her mother finally finds it way to Aria and it’s the greatest gift.
July 27, 2021
This duet was fantastic!!
Faith summers typically doesn't do duets for her stories but so glad this one was 2 books because there was so much to this story that could not be rushed into one book.
Aria and Lucca's story has everything from drama, dark romance to fairy-tale romance, action, plot twist over and over again etc.
When Aria finally realizes that Lucca is the boy she loved as a child and Lucca finds out she never forgot him as a child and wrote to him everyday for 8 yrs if she ever saw him again and was finally able to give it to him was so heart warming. And I must say the sex scenes were very HOT 🔥🥵. I kept thinking....my gosh where is this Lucca and where I can find one like him 😀😄.
They loved eachother so much as children and even though life broke them apart they fought for one another and finally found their "Netherland". This story was absolutely beautiful.
Now Lucca is not only Pakhan but also a Syndicate member. If you read previous books from Faith Summers you know the D'Agostino Brothers from the Italian mafia run it and one of the Brothers is a close friend to Aiden who also has his own book and all great reads. I'm excited to see we will now hear more about Lucca in the future now as well. I have a feeling Aria's cousin Sienna will be romantically involved with someone...either Eric which is Aiden's Brother in law or Maskim which is Aiden's cousin. We shall see.
Faith summers typically doesn't do duets for her stories but so glad this one was 2 books because there was so much to this story that could not be rushed into one book.
Aria and Lucca's story has everything from drama, dark romance to fairy-tale romance, action, plot twist over and over again etc.
When Aria finally realizes that Lucca is the boy she loved as a child and Lucca finds out she never forgot him as a child and wrote to him everyday for 8 yrs if she ever saw him again and was finally able to give it to him was so heart warming. And I must say the sex scenes were very HOT 🔥🥵. I kept thinking....my gosh where is this Lucca and where I can find one like him 😀😄.
They loved eachother so much as children and even though life broke them apart they fought for one another and finally found their "Netherland". This story was absolutely beautiful.
Now Lucca is not only Pakhan but also a Syndicate member. If you read previous books from Faith Summers you know the D'Agostino Brothers from the Italian mafia run it and one of the Brothers is a close friend to Aiden who also has his own book and all great reads. I'm excited to see we will now hear more about Lucca in the future now as well. I have a feeling Aria's cousin Sienna will be romantically involved with someone...either Eric which is Aiden's Brother in law or Maskim which is Aiden's cousin. We shall see.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2021
Bravo! The conclusion to this story was so damn good! I was so into this story that I only took an already planned dinner break (which took some arm twisting!!) and stayed up late to finish it! These two authors sure do know how to keep you drawn into a book. Lucca and Aria have so many obstacles in their way of happiness. Aria is remembering bits and pieces of her life and after getting married to Lucca is kidnapped for the 2nd time and returned to her father by someone very close to Lucca. Can Lucca get the information he needs to bring down Raphael and Pasha? Will Aria ever get her memories back? Lucca, along with Aiden and his loyal men, will try to come out on top and get the revenge they need. Lucca realizes that all along, he wants to be the boy Aria remembers (Peter) and realizes that he has always loved her. Lucca has a lot of work ahead of him once he finally tells Aria the whole truth.
This story has it all – drama, action, betrayal, loyalty, danger, tragedy, passion, surprises, suspense and love. Secrets are revealed, Lucca is betrayed by numerous people and Aria seems to be a pawn in everyone else’s game but her own. Loved this so much, I am sad that it ended. I look forward to reading more from these authors. I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems ARC’s and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story has it all – drama, action, betrayal, loyalty, danger, tragedy, passion, surprises, suspense and love. Secrets are revealed, Lucca is betrayed by numerous people and Aria seems to be a pawn in everyone else’s game but her own. Loved this so much, I am sad that it ended. I look forward to reading more from these authors. I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems ARC’s and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2021
I loved this book. I didn’t need it but I loved the way Khardine goes over how the story ended in book one. After Jon shot Lucca and Marylin he picks Aria up to take out. He injects something into her neck that knocks her out but not before she sees the men who follow Jon some were Lucca’s men. Aria Wakes up in a strange bed and sees her father at the window she says she knows that he killed her mother or had someone do it then set her on fire. As her father goes to walk away she runs after him but he hits her and knocks her down saying there is no one to save her this time. Lucca wakes up in hospital and sees Aiden Romanov his friend. Marylin called Aiden before passing out He got them taken to a private hospital in Malibu where no one would look. After he comes around from the coma Lucca wants to know if there is any word on Aria and also Marylin. He goes to see Marylin who is in a coma in a critical condition. As soon as he can Lucca goes home with Aidens men and his that he can trust. Damien wants Aria and her father dead but Lucca says no one can touch her.
Aria manages to escape from her father but Jon catches her and injects her neck again. Before it takes effect she finds out Jon is working for Pasha not her father. Aria wakes up with chains on her wrists and is in a cage also Pasha is there to torment her. She also find out Pasha paid her father extra to have her as a child. I wouldn’t spoil the rest only to say it’s a must read. I received an ARC for an honest review which I have given
Aria manages to escape from her father but Jon catches her and injects her neck again. Before it takes effect she finds out Jon is working for Pasha not her father. Aria wakes up with chains on her wrists and is in a cage also Pasha is there to torment her. She also find out Pasha paid her father extra to have her as a child. I wouldn’t spoil the rest only to say it’s a must read. I received an ARC for an honest review which I have given
July 23, 2021
This is the second book in the series and you must read the first before this one to fully understand the story.
Lucca and Aria have loved each other since they were children. They were each others first kiss and first love. Even without knowing everything about the other the felt that deep bond. Tragedy struck Lucca early causing him to say goodbye to his beloved Aria. Years later Aria loses her memory in an incident that kills her mother yet the two find their way back but not in a manner either would have anticipated.
Lucca is now a leader in the Bratva Mafia and Aria the daughter of a Bratva associate but really an enemy to Lucca and his foster father Damien. As Lucca seeks retribution on Aria's father he takes her and forces her to marry in order to take over the family business.
Few in these stories are what they seem. There are alliances and backstabbing at every turn and it's hard to determine who can really be trusted. As Aria starts to regain her memory secrets are revealed putting her in danger.
This is a mafia story but it is also a love story of how these two unlikely kids found themselves together 15 years later and the actions that should have torn them apart actually bring them together.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lucca and Aria have loved each other since they were children. They were each others first kiss and first love. Even without knowing everything about the other the felt that deep bond. Tragedy struck Lucca early causing him to say goodbye to his beloved Aria. Years later Aria loses her memory in an incident that kills her mother yet the two find their way back but not in a manner either would have anticipated.
Lucca is now a leader in the Bratva Mafia and Aria the daughter of a Bratva associate but really an enemy to Lucca and his foster father Damien. As Lucca seeks retribution on Aria's father he takes her and forces her to marry in order to take over the family business.
Few in these stories are what they seem. There are alliances and backstabbing at every turn and it's hard to determine who can really be trusted. As Aria starts to regain her memory secrets are revealed putting her in danger.
This is a mafia story but it is also a love story of how these two unlikely kids found themselves together 15 years later and the actions that should have torn them apart actually bring them together.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 20, 2021
“I loved her at first sight”. Those are the words Lucca recalls when he realizes he has to let Aria go to keep her safe in the conclusion of Merciless Union, Book 2 of Faith Summers’ Duet. I loved the first book about these star-crossed lovers, who had fallen in love as children and now were trying to find a way to love and better to survive deceit, memory loss, deception, murder, love and who to trust and memories returning or just dreams and wishful thinking?
Can Lucca and Aria find their way back to each other from the ending of Book one when she realizes he has to kill her and she asks that it be someone else instead? Can Lucca overcome all of the duplicity of his life since the murder of his family? Will they both learn to trust not just each other but the truth they uncover to live and love and build upon that which they had as children?
Faith Summers has written strong, true to life, flawed, sympathetic characters you pull for and root for with each page and chapter. A delight to reconnect with a few from her other books but not necessary to enjoy reading these two.
I could not put them down. Hard hitting. Fast reading page turner. Loved, loved, loved.
ENJOY!
Can Lucca and Aria find their way back to each other from the ending of Book one when she realizes he has to kill her and she asks that it be someone else instead? Can Lucca overcome all of the duplicity of his life since the murder of his family? Will they both learn to trust not just each other but the truth they uncover to live and love and build upon that which they had as children?
Faith Summers has written strong, true to life, flawed, sympathetic characters you pull for and root for with each page and chapter. A delight to reconnect with a few from her other books but not necessary to enjoy reading these two.
I could not put them down. Hard hitting. Fast reading page turner. Loved, loved, loved.
ENJOY!
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