What do you think?
Rate this book
Re della Strada #3
Tainted Essence
Taylan…
Find em, feel em, f*ck em, forget em.
That's my motto… I've lived by it my whole life. So when my best friend bet me 100k to bag the Murdoch princess, it's easy money.
Until I get in way too deep and now I'm training the Havoc Slayer for her biggest fight yet. What I don't realize is she isn’t just fighting to win a title, she’s fighting to beat the demons of her past to prove him wrong.
Destiny…
Why does everyone seem to want me for one thing?!
My mom's secret narcotic formula. Even the man I had my first crush on who damaged me beyond repair only wanted me to get to my mom.
I'm going to prove to everyone I'm not some weak, pathetic little girl. I'm going to win my biggest fight yet with or without Taylan’s help.
I’ll show him I am strong enough, I’ll show them all I am not just some princess with the last name Murdoch.
Author’s note, this book is extremely dark and has a long list of triggers! Please read those before continuing. This book is set in the world of the Murdoch mafia, Memento Mori, and the Godfathers Of The Night with character crossovers. You don’t need to read either of those series to start this book.
Find em, feel em, f*ck em, forget em.
That's my motto… I've lived by it my whole life. So when my best friend bet me 100k to bag the Murdoch princess, it's easy money.
Until I get in way too deep and now I'm training the Havoc Slayer for her biggest fight yet. What I don't realize is she isn’t just fighting to win a title, she’s fighting to beat the demons of her past to prove him wrong.
Destiny…
Why does everyone seem to want me for one thing?!
My mom's secret narcotic formula. Even the man I had my first crush on who damaged me beyond repair only wanted me to get to my mom.
I'm going to prove to everyone I'm not some weak, pathetic little girl. I'm going to win my biggest fight yet with or without Taylan’s help.
I’ll show him I am strong enough, I’ll show them all I am not just some princess with the last name Murdoch.
Author’s note, this book is extremely dark and has a long list of triggers! Please read those before continuing. This book is set in the world of the Murdoch mafia, Memento Mori, and the Godfathers Of The Night with character crossovers. You don’t need to read either of those series to start this book.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 16, 2024
41 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Barrett
55 books886 followersSamantha Barrett is originally from Auckland, New Zealand but living in Brisbane, Australia.
Sam writes all things dirty dark and delicious with a side of twisted mind fu*k.
She is a lover of all things red flags and an anti-hero is a must.
Sam writes all things dirty dark and delicious with a side of twisted mind fu*k.
She is a lover of all things red flags and an anti-hero is a must.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
August 17, 2024
The ending is near.. and I am so sad..
"Every fighter needs a name, and mine is Havoc Slayer." Destiny has something to prove. She needs to battle her demons. She has been broken and let down more than anyone. Taylan has issues. He doesn't commit, but when a bet to get the Havoc Slayer into b e d becomes more than that. Can he handle the heat of her family or will he tuck tail and run.
Such a good read. This series had my heart. I loved every second of it and am almost devastated it is coming to an end.
If you haven't read anything by Samantha Barrett make sure you start from the beginning. This is a standalone but the whole world is interconnected.
"Every fighter needs a name, and mine is Havoc Slayer." Destiny has something to prove. She needs to battle her demons. She has been broken and let down more than anyone. Taylan has issues. He doesn't commit, but when a bet to get the Havoc Slayer into b e d becomes more than that. Can he handle the heat of her family or will he tuck tail and run.
Such a good read. This series had my heart. I loved every second of it and am almost devastated it is coming to an end.
If you haven't read anything by Samantha Barrett make sure you start from the beginning. This is a standalone but the whole world is interconnected.
August 15, 2024
Yowza!!!! Tainted Essence by Samantha Barrett is the final story in the Re Della Strada series…and it certainly holds up to the other stories in the series!!! This one follows Taylan and Destiny. Taylan is the “love em and leave em” type. Then, he is presented with a bet….one he can’t refuse. Taylan just makes the heart pitter-patter!!! There’s no denying that man’s impact on females!! But, he may be in too deep with Destiny. The sweet, innocent Destiny, who he has agreed to train for the fight of her life!! Little does he know, there’s more than one fight happening here…
Freaking LOVED and ADORED the broken hero that is Taylan…he has so little faith in himself. But, Destiny has had a thing for him…forever!! She’s not one to back down or quake in his presence. But, there’s more going on here than meets the eye….I loved EVERYTHING about this phenomenal story!!!! Fan-freaking-tastic end to the momentous series!!!
Freaking LOVED and ADORED the broken hero that is Taylan…he has so little faith in himself. But, Destiny has had a thing for him…forever!! She’s not one to back down or quake in his presence. But, there’s more going on here than meets the eye….I loved EVERYTHING about this phenomenal story!!!! Fan-freaking-tastic end to the momentous series!!!
August 3, 2024
READ YOUR TRIGGERS!
This is not a suggestion
For all the girlies who think triggers look like Six Flags, then enjoy the ride. 🎢
Once again Samantha has done it again with Tainted Essence !!
🖤 He’s become my favorite hello, and I know he’s gonna be my hardest goodbye ☠️
Taylan has that Find ‘em F*ck ‘em and forget ‘em attitude, until he meets Destiny.
The banter between both tay and Destiny is on point and let me tell you the things that come out of Tays mouth will have you panting.
If you like
☠️ Mafia
☠️ broken MMC
☠️ Sassy FMC
☠️ Age gap
☠️ Bodyguard
☠️ Forced proximity
☠️ Enemies to Lovers
Then this book is for you!
This book will have you gripped so hard like all of Samantha’s books they reel you in and don’t let go I’m pretty sure I need to be charging every character for all her books rent for the space they take up in my head daily!
This is not a suggestion
For all the girlies who think triggers look like Six Flags, then enjoy the ride. 🎢
Once again Samantha has done it again with Tainted Essence !!
🖤 He’s become my favorite hello, and I know he’s gonna be my hardest goodbye ☠️
Taylan has that Find ‘em F*ck ‘em and forget ‘em attitude, until he meets Destiny.
The banter between both tay and Destiny is on point and let me tell you the things that come out of Tays mouth will have you panting.
If you like
☠️ Mafia
☠️ broken MMC
☠️ Sassy FMC
☠️ Age gap
☠️ Bodyguard
☠️ Forced proximity
☠️ Enemies to Lovers
Then this book is for you!
This book will have you gripped so hard like all of Samantha’s books they reel you in and don’t let go I’m pretty sure I need to be charging every character for all her books rent for the space they take up in my head daily!
July 29, 2024
Taylan!!!!! 🥵🥵🥵 He hopped his way to the 3rd spot in my "favorite book boyfriend" list. 1&2 are both Murdoch men. 😂
I loved every second of this story, and Sam stays true to her wicked ways, ripping our hearts out and stomping on them before slowly putting them back together. Just when you think she's putting the last piece together, she kicks it, and all the pieces fall down again. Only then does she glue it back together. I cannot wait to see what's next!
I loved every second of this story, and Sam stays true to her wicked ways, ripping our hearts out and stomping on them before slowly putting them back together. Just when you think she's putting the last piece together, she kicks it, and all the pieces fall down again. Only then does she glue it back together. I cannot wait to see what's next!
August 5, 2024
OMFG!!! What a ride. Taylan and Destiny's story is the last of the trilogy of the Re Della Strada series and does not disappoint!
It is full of angst...As Destiny and Taylan face off in a series of events that keep you on your toes. It is hot, filthy, sexy and very very dark! But I loved it all.
Being kidnapped is nothing new to Destiny, as being the daughter of a Murdoch with a Russian mother, her life was always going to be in danger. She has been trained on how to protect herself.
Taylan answers a call when Destiny is targeted at a club, and escapes with the Russian mafia hot on their heels. They find they cannot outrun their pursuers and give up the chase...This is the start of their story!
Taylan promises to keep her safe, but of course not all promises can be kept.
Being a champion MMA Fighter, Destiny doesn't need Taylan to keep her safe...until she does!
They enter a relationship purely due to their physical attraction, whilst hating on each other during the day. Oh Boy, you will all love the banter between them and the passion filled nights that they indulge in. The sparks fly all throughout the story, with them both refusing to accept that feelings were starting to become involved in their love em leave em agreement!
A past comes back to haunt Destiny and she has to face it so she can survive her future. And the only person she can trust is Taylan until he betrays that trust. It is an excellent read and done in one sitting, as I did, as I am sure you will be unable to put the book down until the last page!
It is full of angst...As Destiny and Taylan face off in a series of events that keep you on your toes. It is hot, filthy, sexy and very very dark! But I loved it all.
Being kidnapped is nothing new to Destiny, as being the daughter of a Murdoch with a Russian mother, her life was always going to be in danger. She has been trained on how to protect herself.
Taylan answers a call when Destiny is targeted at a club, and escapes with the Russian mafia hot on their heels. They find they cannot outrun their pursuers and give up the chase...This is the start of their story!
Taylan promises to keep her safe, but of course not all promises can be kept.
Being a champion MMA Fighter, Destiny doesn't need Taylan to keep her safe...until she does!
They enter a relationship purely due to their physical attraction, whilst hating on each other during the day. Oh Boy, you will all love the banter between them and the passion filled nights that they indulge in. The sparks fly all throughout the story, with them both refusing to accept that feelings were starting to become involved in their love em leave em agreement!
A past comes back to haunt Destiny and she has to face it so she can survive her future. And the only person she can trust is Taylan until he betrays that trust. It is an excellent read and done in one sitting, as I did, as I am sure you will be unable to put the book down until the last page!
August 13, 2024
Surviving and strong…
Taylan is certainly not looking to find some dream woman to settle down with. So he had no problem betting his friend he could get with Destiny, the Murdoch Mafia princess. But he was not prepared for how she would effect him.
When men come after Destiny to get her mother's secret narcotic formula, he's ready to help protect her. He's also there to help train her for her next big MMA fight. She's not just in it for the love of the fight, she's also fighting her way through her past trauma. And the past just won't let her go, in more ways that one.
Destiny is not the only one dealing with past trauma. Taylan has a haunted past of his own that has been effecting him in ways he didn't even realize. It's not just their trauma that bonds them but their kink as well. And oh the chemistry!
Their journey is dark and emotional. They are both fighting to either run or heal from what's holding them back. The world they live in is dangerous and hard. Through it all they help heal each other in different ways.
Definitely check the triggers and be ready to feel some emotions right along with them. I loved these two together so much. And if you love Samantha's interconnected world between the Murdoch Mafia, Memento Mori, Godfathers of the Night, and of course this Re Della Strada, then you're going to love all the family crossover in this one. I'm absolutely in love with this whole world she's created and these families so it was great to revisit a bunch of the characters.
Taylan is certainly not looking to find some dream woman to settle down with. So he had no problem betting his friend he could get with Destiny, the Murdoch Mafia princess. But he was not prepared for how she would effect him.
When men come after Destiny to get her mother's secret narcotic formula, he's ready to help protect her. He's also there to help train her for her next big MMA fight. She's not just in it for the love of the fight, she's also fighting her way through her past trauma. And the past just won't let her go, in more ways that one.
Destiny is not the only one dealing with past trauma. Taylan has a haunted past of his own that has been effecting him in ways he didn't even realize. It's not just their trauma that bonds them but their kink as well. And oh the chemistry!
Their journey is dark and emotional. They are both fighting to either run or heal from what's holding them back. The world they live in is dangerous and hard. Through it all they help heal each other in different ways.
Definitely check the triggers and be ready to feel some emotions right along with them. I loved these two together so much. And if you love Samantha's interconnected world between the Murdoch Mafia, Memento Mori, Godfathers of the Night, and of course this Re Della Strada, then you're going to love all the family crossover in this one. I'm absolutely in love with this whole world she's created and these families so it was great to revisit a bunch of the characters.
August 19, 2024
Easily one of my Top 2024 Reads!!
Taylan and Destiny are the perfect match for one another and their story brings tons of spice and angsty moments making it an unputdownable read!!
Samantha Barrett is one of my favorite authors to read she never disappoints and every book has you turning the pages as fast as you can because you need more and Tainted Essence is no different!! I loved this book because both main characters have a past that has altered their present leaving them to figure out if either of them is strong enough to move forward now. Side note I now will never be able to look at pasta sauce in the same way lol iykyk.
This story has dark themes with some witty humor the author always brings to help lighten the trauma of the characters. With this being the last in the series it's also a read responsibly due to triggers. Taylan and Destiny both share their tragic event that changed them as they see their demons lurking within one another, as feelings develop as these two proclaimed hit-it-and-quit-it types find feelings deepening but unsure how to handle them now. They will have all the ups and downs to finding a HEA.
Expect lots of forbidden moments, forced proximity, spice overload, trauma, cross-over characters, mafia wars, action, and suspense. If you love Mafia Romance this book/series is an Absolute Must Read!!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice:🌶🌶🌶🌶
Taylan and Destiny are the perfect match for one another and their story brings tons of spice and angsty moments making it an unputdownable read!!
Samantha Barrett is one of my favorite authors to read she never disappoints and every book has you turning the pages as fast as you can because you need more and Tainted Essence is no different!! I loved this book because both main characters have a past that has altered their present leaving them to figure out if either of them is strong enough to move forward now. Side note I now will never be able to look at pasta sauce in the same way lol iykyk.
This story has dark themes with some witty humor the author always brings to help lighten the trauma of the characters. With this being the last in the series it's also a read responsibly due to triggers. Taylan and Destiny both share their tragic event that changed them as they see their demons lurking within one another, as feelings develop as these two proclaimed hit-it-and-quit-it types find feelings deepening but unsure how to handle them now. They will have all the ups and downs to finding a HEA.
Expect lots of forbidden moments, forced proximity, spice overload, trauma, cross-over characters, mafia wars, action, and suspense. If you love Mafia Romance this book/series is an Absolute Must Read!!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice:🌶🌶🌶🌶
August 7, 2024
⭐️5🌶️4💧2
Fave Moment:
“You may think you are the boss and you are… in the ring, but when it comes to me getting what I want, I’m in charge and right now, what I want is to taste my 💦 inside this 🐱 so throw your fking leg over my shoulder so I can eat your 🐱 .”
Thoughts:
Taylan omg I’m blushing!!! He has such a filthy mouth.. and I loved it!!! If you enjoyed London story, you with LOVE Destiny’s story!! She is a firecracker! Together they are electric!!! Their chemistry is all round hot and they are kinky AF making it even hotter!!! I loved the playfulness to them as well! Having digs left and right! Taylan is another London and it’s on so fun to read hahaha I’d love to see a second Epilogue though a little further into the future, where did they end up kind of thing.
But I loved this one! Check your triggers though! The list is long!
#samanthabarrett #taintedessence #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife #spicybooklover
Fave Moment:
“You may think you are the boss and you are… in the ring, but when it comes to me getting what I want, I’m in charge and right now, what I want is to taste my 💦 inside this 🐱 so throw your fking leg over my shoulder so I can eat your 🐱 .”
Thoughts:
Taylan omg I’m blushing!!! He has such a filthy mouth.. and I loved it!!! If you enjoyed London story, you with LOVE Destiny’s story!! She is a firecracker! Together they are electric!!! Their chemistry is all round hot and they are kinky AF making it even hotter!!! I loved the playfulness to them as well! Having digs left and right! Taylan is another London and it’s on so fun to read hahaha I’d love to see a second Epilogue though a little further into the future, where did they end up kind of thing.
But I loved this one! Check your triggers though! The list is long!
#samanthabarrett #taintedessence #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife #spicybooklover
August 12, 2024
Tainted Essence is book 3 in the Re Della Strada series by Samantha Barrett. I love every book she writes but this one, this is the book that ripped me apart before putting me back together again.
(*Please read the trigger warnings. They are listed for a reason & meant to help keep you mentally in check so you know what to expect)
When hitmen are sent to kidnap Destiny Murdoch, Taylan Carter is there to help stop that from happening. When that plan fails, they both learn who is behind this planned attack. Finding out who orchestra it rocks Destiny to the core. This wasn't just a plan to get the secret drug formula for the Bratva drugs that her mom, Anya, invented. It was about breaking Destiny, mentally & physically. After escaping, they know the person behind the attack will stop at nothing to get Destiny. Taylan becomes Destiny's trainer/bodyguard. The attraction is there but Tay Tay doesn't do feelings or relationships. No women will ever hold power over him. Destiny (AKA Havoc Slayer) doesn't want a man. They're a distraction and she needs to focus on winning her upcoming fight to prove that the ring is where she belongs. What neither of them anticipated was catching feelings!
(*Please read the trigger warnings. They are listed for a reason & meant to help keep you mentally in check so you know what to expect)
When hitmen are sent to kidnap Destiny Murdoch, Taylan Carter is there to help stop that from happening. When that plan fails, they both learn who is behind this planned attack. Finding out who orchestra it rocks Destiny to the core. This wasn't just a plan to get the secret drug formula for the Bratva drugs that her mom, Anya, invented. It was about breaking Destiny, mentally & physically. After escaping, they know the person behind the attack will stop at nothing to get Destiny. Taylan becomes Destiny's trainer/bodyguard. The attraction is there but Tay Tay doesn't do feelings or relationships. No women will ever hold power over him. Destiny (AKA Havoc Slayer) doesn't want a man. They're a distraction and she needs to focus on winning her upcoming fight to prove that the ring is where she belongs. What neither of them anticipated was catching feelings!
August 14, 2024
Tropes:
🥊MMA
🥊Strong FMC
🥊Kidnapping
🥊Mafia
🥊And many more
*Sam writes very dark books so please ensure you check all trigger warnings before you begin.
What an amazing ending for both the Murdoch Mafia and Re Della Strada series (even if I wasn't ready for it all to end 😭).
I love myself strong main characters, especially females and these ladies (especially Destiny) have it in spades! To make a man fall at your feet but only for her is my absolute jam! But I also love a man who knows when to dominate, if you know what I mean 😜. The sexual tension and not being able to keep their hands off one another despite the 'hate' they had for each other was just fire 🔥
As someone who was also broken by a man, I love the self work Destiny did throughout this book to figure out who she was and what she wanted to be! And while Taylan was so amazing at supporting her (a big softy at heart he was) ultimately she had to heal herself in the end.
What I didn't like is Taylan (the big idiot) not realizing or admitting his feelings until it was almost too late! Why are men so stupid sometimes! Thank God it all worked itself out in the end and we got the happy ending ❤️❤️ (I'm a sucker for those too).
🥊MMA
🥊Strong FMC
🥊Kidnapping
🥊Mafia
🥊And many more
*Sam writes very dark books so please ensure you check all trigger warnings before you begin.
What an amazing ending for both the Murdoch Mafia and Re Della Strada series (even if I wasn't ready for it all to end 😭).
I love myself strong main characters, especially females and these ladies (especially Destiny) have it in spades! To make a man fall at your feet but only for her is my absolute jam! But I also love a man who knows when to dominate, if you know what I mean 😜. The sexual tension and not being able to keep their hands off one another despite the 'hate' they had for each other was just fire 🔥
As someone who was also broken by a man, I love the self work Destiny did throughout this book to figure out who she was and what she wanted to be! And while Taylan was so amazing at supporting her (a big softy at heart he was) ultimately she had to heal herself in the end.
What I didn't like is Taylan (the big idiot) not realizing or admitting his feelings until it was almost too late! Why are men so stupid sometimes! Thank God it all worked itself out in the end and we got the happy ending ❤️❤️ (I'm a sucker for those too).
August 11, 2024
Tainted Essence is the third book in the Re Della Strada series, completing this trilogy with one action packed ride that will have you on the edge of your seat! I absolutely loved Destiny and Taylan and the amazing banter that takes place between these two strong willed and witty fighters as they overcome their pasts. The appearances made by characters from other series in this universe were little treats, that just added an extra depth to the bond, loyalty and strength woven into this mafia read. Although this book is set in the world of the Murdoch Mafia, Memento Mori, and the Godfathers Of The Night you don't need to have read any of these before you begin this one. Please make sure you check the trigger warnings and are ok with them before starting this fantastic series. I'm a little sad it's over and hoping that we may get a little more of 'Tay Tay' in the future, but whatever this author has in store for us next....I have no doubt that it will have me hooked from the first sentence!!!
August 16, 2024
This book was off the charts amazing. I was hooked from the first chapter. This is by far my favorite book and characters in this series. Taylan (Tay Tay) is an all Alpha, Possessive, take charge MMC. Destiny is all Sassy, Independent, all Attitude FMC. I love them both. The interaction between the two with all these sarcastic banter is hilarious. I could not stop laughing in this book. So many different emotions came through for me. Anger, crying, laughing, jealousy (because I want Tay Tay to be mine). I could not put this book down. I loved that the other characters from other series came into play in this book. That was just awesome. Of course I had to go back and reread their books after reading this one. Although if I’m talking all the characters my absolute favorite is Royal and his daughter London. Definitely read their series. You will love it. You won’t be disappointed.
Definitely definitely watch out for triggers. Lots of triggers and dark romance. By far this is one of my favorite books by Samantha Barrett. Her writing just keeps getting better and better. I’m so glad I’m here for the journey. Can’t wait to read more. I truly wish I could give more than 5 stars. I would have given it a 10 star rating. Thank you for another wonderful amazing book Samantha.
Definitely definitely watch out for triggers. Lots of triggers and dark romance. By far this is one of my favorite books by Samantha Barrett. Her writing just keeps getting better and better. I’m so glad I’m here for the journey. Can’t wait to read more. I truly wish I could give more than 5 stars. I would have given it a 10 star rating. Thank you for another wonderful amazing book Samantha.
August 5, 2024
Please check trigger warnings before reading because this baby is packed full!! Reading this was a little bittersweet, this is one of the last two books for these characters and that makes me sad. I absolutely loved this book!! Destiny is a force to be reckoned with. Taylan is just 😮💨🫠🥵 I knew I was going to love “Tay Tay” since Shattered Soul. The banter between these two is perfect. Everything about these two is perfection. They both suffered horrible trauma in their past and because of that tried to keep themselves emotionally closed off. The forced proximity and heat between these two 🤌🏼🤌🏼 I’m not sure what Samantha puts in her books but I swear I eat them tf up!! Samantha’s book are what ushered me into my Mafia Era 🖤
5/5⭐️ 4/5🌶️
5/5⭐️ 4/5🌶️
August 9, 2024
Ooooohhh I loved this book, it had everything including the Murdochs 😍 my heart broke for both Taylan and Destiny, for the same reasons but different times of their lives. Other peoples actions and words destroying them but ultimately ending with them needing each other to fix it. Taylan was a true hero for Destiny, keeping her mind off things despite it killing him inside and having to see her suffer. These two are perfect for each other. One thing I did love and what Samantha Barrett did so well was showing the love between a father and daughter but also a mother and daughter. The differences in relationships but resulting in the same goal. It was a brilliantly written book as always, never one to disappoint but I am gutted the Re Della Strada are finished, I need more lol.
August 22, 2024
Okay so the first book was kind of dark, the second book was just dark, tell me why the third book is just hilarious to me. It's not too dark like book two, but there's so many scenes that I cannot stop laughing. Not because it's like haha funny it's like oh my gosh they really said that! At certain points I have to stop and reread the line and be like no joke they actually said that!! It is dark still, but man does Tay know what to say to make things funny!
I'm so happy I was able to read this series. I loved it so much! I know there other books that are in this storyline and now I want to read all of those. If you want a series that pulls at your heart strings in different ways. Give this series a read!
I'm so happy I was able to read this series. I loved it so much! I know there other books that are in this storyline and now I want to read all of those. If you want a series that pulls at your heart strings in different ways. Give this series a read!
August 15, 2024
Tainted Essence is the third and final book in the Re Della Strada book. This book was action-packed and had me on the edge of my seat at certain points. There are some dark elements that may be triggering so be sure to check the trigger warnings.
I absolutely loved the dynamics between Taylan and Destiny. Their back and forth banter was great and had me smiling so many times. I loved seeing the Murdoch's in this book because it just reminded me how tight-knit that family truly is. I really want more of Taylan and Destiny! I have loved this series and the characters so I am sad to see it ending.
If you want a mafia romance with some dark elements and steamy scenes then you definitely need to read this book!
I absolutely loved the dynamics between Taylan and Destiny. Their back and forth banter was great and had me smiling so many times. I loved seeing the Murdoch's in this book because it just reminded me how tight-knit that family truly is. I really want more of Taylan and Destiny! I have loved this series and the characters so I am sad to see it ending.
If you want a mafia romance with some dark elements and steamy scenes then you definitely need to read this book!
August 14, 2024
OMG!! I loved this book!! It's Taylan & Destiny's story & they have an awesome one! There's so much going on here & they (RDS) have a snake with them. I love Taylan & Destiny's dynamic, they really don't like each other!!😉 I love the banter between them & the spice is freaking fantastic!! I was so stoked to see the other characters make an appearance in this book & the Murdoch's wives are freaking awesome!! Some truly awful things happen here though, so please keep in mind, this isn't an easy read. I'm so happy they got their HEA, it was deserved!! Highly recommend this series & author!!!
August 19, 2024
phenomenal end to this series
I adore this author, her writing style is amazing.
The emotion and detail had me falling into the story, I was sitting on the edge of my chair the whole time.
The twist and suspense was beautifully written.
Taylan is such a great character, love the ‘ love em and leave ‘em’ ethos and his vulnerability.
Destiny is adorably sweet and mixed with Taylan teaching her to fight makes a mesmerising read.
Overall outstanding loved every aspect of this book, it’s the perfect ending to this phenomenal series.
I adore this author, her writing style is amazing.
The emotion and detail had me falling into the story, I was sitting on the edge of my chair the whole time.
The twist and suspense was beautifully written.
Taylan is such a great character, love the ‘ love em and leave ‘em’ ethos and his vulnerability.
Destiny is adorably sweet and mixed with Taylan teaching her to fight makes a mesmerising read.
Overall outstanding loved every aspect of this book, it’s the perfect ending to this phenomenal series.
August 30, 2024
Extremely well written. Full of twists and turns. This was easily the best after London Has Fallen in the entire Murdouch universe.
I am going to miss this world insanely.
Destiny was a warrior , a true wonder woman, emerging like a phoniex.
Though I liked Taylan from the beginning of the series, at times I felt like kicking him for not accepting his feelings for Destiny.
Kimberly a complete bitch .
I love London.
The chemistry was offcharts. My kindle was on fire.
Can't wait to read Damned by his angel.
Can we request Ms Barrett to continue this world.
I am going to miss this world insanely.
Destiny was a warrior , a true wonder woman, emerging like a phoniex.
Though I liked Taylan from the beginning of the series, at times I felt like kicking him for not accepting his feelings for Destiny.
Kimberly a complete bitch .
I love London.
The chemistry was offcharts. My kindle was on fire.
Can't wait to read Damned by his angel.
Can we request Ms Barrett to continue this world.
August 1, 2024
This is The Re Della Strada series. It focuses on Taylan and Destiny. Tay is Knox’ best friend and underboss and Destiny is Gage and Anya Murdoch’s daughter. She’s training for a big MMA fight and he has to train her. There is a lot of sexual tension between these two lol. A lot of action , drama and oh fuck moments in here. This was an amazingly epic read. Don’t want to spoil anything , so please read this story you will not be disappointed.
August 2, 2024
Taylan is the man. No one in this mafia series has topped what that man's mouth can do or say. This book has triggers, so please read them before reading this delectable book. Tay and Destiny's chemistry is off the charts. They both agreed to just have some fun but began to fall for each other, and hard. But when the past comes back to haunt them, can they survive? Find out by pre-ordering Tainted Essence or reading it when it comes out on August 16th.
August 10, 2024
Wow. Taylen is simply remarkable! I'm captivated by him! The bond he displayed throughout the entire story is truly admirable. He stood by her every step of the way, supporting her through her struggles. It's inspiring to see how she persevered and continued to grow in both her fighting skills and self-belief. The final actions of her parents, despite their initial lack of awareness, were truly commendable. This heartfelt and touching story is worth reading, just be mindful of potential triggers. I highly recommend it.
August 13, 2024
I absolutely devoured this book! I love Tay and Destiny's characters. Their relationship is fiesty, angsty, and spicy! I felt so sad for Taylan with how he felt he wasn't deserving of love. It also broke my heart when they were in some triggering situations, and nothing could be done. This is an amazing story, and I definitely recommend it! Please be aware that there are many triggers in this book, so be sure to read those before diving in.
August 15, 2024
Gooooo run right now and read this book!
This book was so 🔥🔥🔥I was on the edge of my seat through this whole book.
Mafia madness is all I am going to say! Soooo much happened in this book , soooo much good stuff that I couldn’t get enough of .
The connections and the support throughout this book is insane .
Taylan Mr I love you forget you after I F u😂that is till he runs into Destiny. Then it’s all game over ❤️❤️❤️
Trigger/ Triggers/
This book was so 🔥🔥🔥I was on the edge of my seat through this whole book.
Mafia madness is all I am going to say! Soooo much happened in this book , soooo much good stuff that I couldn’t get enough of .
The connections and the support throughout this book is insane .
Taylan Mr I love you forget you after I F u😂that is till he runs into Destiny. Then it’s all game over ❤️❤️❤️
Trigger/ Triggers/
August 16, 2024
Oh my goodness, what an end to the Re Della Strada series! This whole series has been living in my mind non stop! TAY TAY! Ahh I loved finding out more about him and he will hold a piece of my heart forever. His and Destiny’s stories will make you hurt, I won’t lie, got my eyes watering a little, but also seeing both him and Destiny overcome their demons, and support and defend each other will make it all worth it!
August 18, 2024
Tainted Essence is 3rd n final book in the Re Della Strada series, and did Samantha Barrett pack a punch with this one.
Taylor and Destiny's relationship is feisty, kinky, and absolutely something I needed to read.
Taylor and Destiny's are both damaged good, but who says 2 wrongs don't make a right!
This book actually left me with some "omg" moments, which is very hard to do.
As always, check your triggers, and don't say I didn't warn you 😉
Taylor and Destiny's relationship is feisty, kinky, and absolutely something I needed to read.
Taylor and Destiny's are both damaged good, but who says 2 wrongs don't make a right!
This book actually left me with some "omg" moments, which is very hard to do.
As always, check your triggers, and don't say I didn't warn you 😉
August 11, 2024
This was heartbreaking in places. Not as dark as the previous Re Della Strada books but it still definitely had it’s moments. Taylan and Destiny don’t seem to work on the surface but holy hell they are like a raging inferno when they get together.
The mouth on Taylan took me completely by surprise and that Destiny loved his freaky side and had one of her own was fantastic.
Add in an ex with an agenda, betrayal and continuing Murdoch family drama and this is one hell of a read.
I’m really sad to be leaving the R.D.S. family. I’ve loved all their stories.
The mouth on Taylan took me completely by surprise and that Destiny loved his freaky side and had one of her own was fantastic.
Add in an ex with an agenda, betrayal and continuing Murdoch family drama and this is one hell of a read.
I’m really sad to be leaving the R.D.S. family. I’ve loved all their stories.
August 12, 2024
Where to begin!!! Totally not with any spoilers that is for sure!
First of all please read the blurb and trigger warnings. If you like the blurb and can handle the triggers then start reading your little hearts out!!
I love love love Sam's work! She gets me from the first page, doesn't disappoint. I love a great Mafia romance that is for sure!
First of all please read the blurb and trigger warnings. If you like the blurb and can handle the triggers then start reading your little hearts out!!
I love love love Sam's work! She gets me from the first page, doesn't disappoint. I love a great Mafia romance that is for sure!
May 9, 2025
End of beauty
Samantha has pulled me into her mafia world and held me there. this is Destiny and Taylans story. Both have past trauma . Taylans is an underboss and Destiny is the daughter of the Bratva and the Murdochs. ( if you haven't read Murdoch Mafia, go now) I will miss this mafia world. And I wonder if Amelia will get her story. Maybe in Greece.
Samantha has pulled me into her mafia world and held me there. this is Destiny and Taylans story. Both have past trauma . Taylans is an underboss and Destiny is the daughter of the Bratva and the Murdochs. ( if you haven't read Murdoch Mafia, go now) I will miss this mafia world. And I wonder if Amelia will get her story. Maybe in Greece.
July 31, 2024
She has done it again! I loved this book from beginning to end. This book is spicyyyyy!!! Tay Tay and Dest get up to some nasty things! Sam has a way of breaking you heart and then putting it back together in the most delicious way possible and she did it again with this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews