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Bleeding Heart
In the heart of Pittsburgh awaits a secret half a millennium in the making.
After her father’s brutal murder, Franki discovers she and her three sisters are the only surviving, secret legacy of the Medici. The same people who brutally murdered her father now target her and her family for assassination. Unprepared to battle an unknown enemy, she finds her safety depends on the Medici Protectorate, the warriors who guarded her bloodline for centuries, but who failed to protect her father.
Gianni, Franki’s protector, blows his first meeting with her, but knows he must garner the trust of not only Franki, but also her sisters. Without that, he fails too, and that is unacceptable—not only to him but also to the Medici Protectorate. His troubles grow larger, for as he assumes his new role, he also undergoes inexplicable, explosive physical changes… transformations he can’t control. One of those is his uncontainable desire for Franki.
Their worlds collide in passion and violence, and Franki struggles to trust Gianni. When her life is on the line, Gianni will have to conquer both her fears and his own personal demons to rescue her in time.
After her father’s brutal murder, Franki discovers she and her three sisters are the only surviving, secret legacy of the Medici. The same people who brutally murdered her father now target her and her family for assassination. Unprepared to battle an unknown enemy, she finds her safety depends on the Medici Protectorate, the warriors who guarded her bloodline for centuries, but who failed to protect her father.
Gianni, Franki’s protector, blows his first meeting with her, but knows he must garner the trust of not only Franki, but also her sisters. Without that, he fails too, and that is unacceptable—not only to him but also to the Medici Protectorate. His troubles grow larger, for as he assumes his new role, he also undergoes inexplicable, explosive physical changes… transformations he can’t control. One of those is his uncontainable desire for Franki.
Their worlds collide in passion and violence, and Franki struggles to trust Gianni. When her life is on the line, Gianni will have to conquer both her fears and his own personal demons to rescue her in time.
Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2015
4 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
About the author
Staci Troilo
35 books163 followersI grew up knowing family is paramount. I was blessed to spend time with extended family daily, not just on holidays or weekends. Because of those close-knit familial bonds, every day was full of love and laughter, food and fun.
Life took me away from that extended family for twenty years before I finally made it back. And while I'd done my best to keep the traditions alive across the miles, I realize there truly is no place like home.
Through my fiction, I share those traditions and the importance of relationships with you. Mystery or suspense, romance or mainstream, sci-fi or thriller—in my stories, family (however you define it) is paramount.
To learn more about me, visit me at http://stacitroilo.com or connect with me on social media.
Life took me away from that extended family for twenty years before I finally made it back. And while I'd done my best to keep the traditions alive across the miles, I realize there truly is no place like home.
Through my fiction, I share those traditions and the importance of relationships with you. Mystery or suspense, romance or mainstream, sci-fi or thriller—in my stories, family (however you define it) is paramount.
To learn more about me, visit me at http://stacitroilo.com or connect with me on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
March 9, 2016
I downloaded the sample and it looked like it wasn't going to be pretty good, but I regret the $2.99. This wasn't written too badly and I'm sure it would be a fine read for those who favour a fairly simple romance. The first half wasn't bad, but as the book continues it becomes all to obvious to the point it was probably going to repeat itself x 3.
May 17, 2017
An old prophecy ... magic daggers ... hot men sent to protect and safeguard four corporate females who don't want said protection ... a dead father ...
An enjoyable read with unexpected steamy passages and plenty of aggression. The author does a good job of mixing normal everyday stuff with things more on the magical side of the spectrum, and it all blends wonderfully. Despite my feeling tired and in a 'not bothered' mood when I began this book, the characters gripped me within the first few pages, and I ended up enjoying it immensely. Some things I struggled with, like the word 'had' seems to have gone AWOL much of the time, and I had to keep re-reading some of the sentences to get the sense of them. (For example: 'It reminded him of where he lived with his mother and father ...' only to read on and see 'before they both died.' This changed the context, and it wants to read, 'It reminded him of where he had [or he'd] lived with ... before they...', as he doesn't live there currently and the lack of had misleads.) A few other hiccups occurred (like discrete instead of discreet, and 's left in where they need taking out, etc.) but nowhere near enough to spoil the fun of the read. I would highly recommend this first book in the series, and look forward to getting into book 2.
An enjoyable read with unexpected steamy passages and plenty of aggression. The author does a good job of mixing normal everyday stuff with things more on the magical side of the spectrum, and it all blends wonderfully. Despite my feeling tired and in a 'not bothered' mood when I began this book, the characters gripped me within the first few pages, and I ended up enjoying it immensely. Some things I struggled with, like the word 'had' seems to have gone AWOL much of the time, and I had to keep re-reading some of the sentences to get the sense of them. (For example: 'It reminded him of where he lived with his mother and father ...' only to read on and see 'before they both died.' This changed the context, and it wants to read, 'It reminded him of where he had [or he'd] lived with ... before they...', as he doesn't live there currently and the lack of had misleads.) A few other hiccups occurred (like discrete instead of discreet, and 's left in where they need taking out, etc.) but nowhere near enough to spoil the fun of the read. I would highly recommend this first book in the series, and look forward to getting into book 2.
October 10, 2015
Bleeding Heart is an intricately plotted story that weaves together the lives of two groups. The Notaro sisters who run an architectural design firm have just lost their father, John. The patriarch of their family, he was brutally murdered by unknown factions.
The sisters come to learn they are descendants of the Medici, a bloodline that dates back to the time of Michelangelo. Another group, the Brotherhood of Medici Protectorate has safeguarded the Notaro line for centuries. When the sisters learn of their legacy and the Brotherhood, there are immediate clashes— especially between Franki (Francesca) Notaro and Gianni, of the Brotherhood.
The mythology in this book is extremely well-developed. The author really took her time in building a believable and fascinating history for each group. As an example, Gianni and his adopted brothers each carry a stone dagger which is a focal point and an extension of the powers they wield. Gianni’s talent is related to blood and passion. He is able to both heal and inflict wounds, his fiery temperament nowhere more evident than in his passionate relationship with Franki. Their romance is at times steamy and tender, even combustible, but always full of heart.
As someone who grew up in an Italian family, I loved the old-world essence of this book. There are references to the Catholic Mass, Italian cooking, and family traditions. Franki and her sisters fight and argue but are always there for one another. The same with Gianni and his brothers. The guys’ disagreements tend to be explosive, but their loyalty for one another is unquestionable. The mystery kept me flipping pages, but the characters stole my heart. If you love elements of the paranormal, woven with romance, and intrigue, this is one book you don’t want to miss!
The sisters come to learn they are descendants of the Medici, a bloodline that dates back to the time of Michelangelo. Another group, the Brotherhood of Medici Protectorate has safeguarded the Notaro line for centuries. When the sisters learn of their legacy and the Brotherhood, there are immediate clashes— especially between Franki (Francesca) Notaro and Gianni, of the Brotherhood.
The mythology in this book is extremely well-developed. The author really took her time in building a believable and fascinating history for each group. As an example, Gianni and his adopted brothers each carry a stone dagger which is a focal point and an extension of the powers they wield. Gianni’s talent is related to blood and passion. He is able to both heal and inflict wounds, his fiery temperament nowhere more evident than in his passionate relationship with Franki. Their romance is at times steamy and tender, even combustible, but always full of heart.
As someone who grew up in an Italian family, I loved the old-world essence of this book. There are references to the Catholic Mass, Italian cooking, and family traditions. Franki and her sisters fight and argue but are always there for one another. The same with Gianni and his brothers. The guys’ disagreements tend to be explosive, but their loyalty for one another is unquestionable. The mystery kept me flipping pages, but the characters stole my heart. If you love elements of the paranormal, woven with romance, and intrigue, this is one book you don’t want to miss!
July 3, 2017
Bleeding Heart blends in an exquisite way mythology, mystery, romance and traditions. It’s a bit for everyone's tastes – steamy romance, history or intrigue.
I loved Giani DeSantos and Francesca Notaro. The chemistry between them is palpable from the very first moment they meet, even if there’s a bit of misunderstanding shadowing it. Giani thinks he is about to meet the four sons of the recently deceased patriarch, when in fact the heirs are four daughters. His first perception of Francesca he is mesmerized by her waved, flowing brown hair reminding him of espresso and amaretto.
From the moment Giani and Franki meet all is a lesson on how to build a lasting friendship, loyalty, and how to love someone completely and without judgement. The author builds gradually the suspense. The plot keeps the reader’s attention due to the twists and turns spanning the pages. Staci Troilo has a gift with the written word and she has shared it with us in writing Bleeding Heart.
This is a story packed full of action and emotion; the story of four sisters , descendants of the Medici, though they aren’t aware of it at first and of four brothers the Brotherhood of Medici Protectorate.
Bleeding Heart is suspenseful, thought provoking, and above all extremely entertaining. It is somewhat of a complex story, not a light read so you need to be in the mood, but it is so worth it. I found Bleeding Heart a fanciful tale of secret societies, secret codes, and romance that kept my interest until the end. The plot twists are abundant throughout the book and will keep you on your toes.
A beautifully written story that brought out many emotions. Congratulations Staci, job well done!
I loved Giani DeSantos and Francesca Notaro. The chemistry between them is palpable from the very first moment they meet, even if there’s a bit of misunderstanding shadowing it. Giani thinks he is about to meet the four sons of the recently deceased patriarch, when in fact the heirs are four daughters. His first perception of Francesca he is mesmerized by her waved, flowing brown hair reminding him of espresso and amaretto.
From the moment Giani and Franki meet all is a lesson on how to build a lasting friendship, loyalty, and how to love someone completely and without judgement. The author builds gradually the suspense. The plot keeps the reader’s attention due to the twists and turns spanning the pages. Staci Troilo has a gift with the written word and she has shared it with us in writing Bleeding Heart.
This is a story packed full of action and emotion; the story of four sisters , descendants of the Medici, though they aren’t aware of it at first and of four brothers the Brotherhood of Medici Protectorate.
Bleeding Heart is suspenseful, thought provoking, and above all extremely entertaining. It is somewhat of a complex story, not a light read so you need to be in the mood, but it is so worth it. I found Bleeding Heart a fanciful tale of secret societies, secret codes, and romance that kept my interest until the end. The plot twists are abundant throughout the book and will keep you on your toes.
A beautifully written story that brought out many emotions. Congratulations Staci, job well done!
June 11, 2017
What would you do if one day you discover you are the last descendant of an ancient Italian family destined to greatness by a prophecy? Probably you'd brush everything off like a tale for patsies or the ravings of a madman.
That's what happens to Francesca Notaro and her sisters, one day not long after their father's murder. Even those who break the news to them, those who say should protect and guide them, are skeptical deep down. But then strange things starts happening. Accidents, attacks, housebreaking, but also display of strange powers and abilities. And when the effects of the prophecy get in motion there's little time for Franki and her sisters to deal with the how-is-all-of-this-possible factor.
Bleeding Heart, the first chapter in the Medici Protectorate Series, is a fast-paced novel which perfectly mixes action, family relationship, brotherhood, love, steamy romance, personal growth, magic, mystery, and powers. There is everything you might want from this kind of novel, blended in just the right amounts and with the perfect timing.
Don't be deceived, I was skeptical about bringing back an ancient Italian family in the contemporary USA, but I was surprised and proved wrong. If you fear all these elements might clash with each other, put your worries aside. You're going to read Beeding Heart in very few seats and it's going to let you yearn for more.
That's what happens to Francesca Notaro and her sisters, one day not long after their father's murder. Even those who break the news to them, those who say should protect and guide them, are skeptical deep down. But then strange things starts happening. Accidents, attacks, housebreaking, but also display of strange powers and abilities. And when the effects of the prophecy get in motion there's little time for Franki and her sisters to deal with the how-is-all-of-this-possible factor.
Bleeding Heart, the first chapter in the Medici Protectorate Series, is a fast-paced novel which perfectly mixes action, family relationship, brotherhood, love, steamy romance, personal growth, magic, mystery, and powers. There is everything you might want from this kind of novel, blended in just the right amounts and with the perfect timing.
Don't be deceived, I was skeptical about bringing back an ancient Italian family in the contemporary USA, but I was surprised and proved wrong. If you fear all these elements might clash with each other, put your worries aside. You're going to read Beeding Heart in very few seats and it's going to let you yearn for more.
August 11, 2017
"Bleeding Heart" is a book that has a little bit of everything: history, culture, magic, romance, mystery, and action. The characters are strongly written and include four sisters who lost their father and a group of 'brothers' whose job it is to protect them. Gianni is one of the brothers who shows up at the architectural firm the sisters own and meets Frankie, the oldest sister. They're passionately drawn to each other as he tries to protect her without her knowing and she unwillingly accepts his offer of help when she finds her car tires slashed. Then, there are the secrets. The brothers carry knives that provide them with powers, the sisters don’t know they are descendants of the Medici family or someone wants these Medici descendant’s dead. There’s plenty of action that makes it a page turner as well as details of Italian culture. I especially loved when they were at mass, cooking or interacting like brothers and sisters do. Ms. Troilo wrote an action-packed book that I fully enjoyed. I look forward to reading the rest of the series to see where the story goes.
October 1, 2017
This book opens with a wounded hero trying to save the men he's pledged to protect- except they aren't men, and he's dangerously attracted to Francesca Notaro, the eldest sister of an ancient Italian family.
Giani knows it's his job to keep the Medici descendants safe; he and his brothers carry stone daggers which allow them special powers, for this reason, but Franki isn't making it easy. She's willful, independent, and passionate. He's captivated by her beauty.
Franki is, at first, skeptical of the stranger who unexpectedly shows up on the day of her murdered father's mass, but then strange things start happening and she agrees to his help.
As the danger grows, so too, does their attraction.
Bleeding Heart is a fast-paced novel mixing action, suspense, romance, paranormal magic, and mystery, into one delightful story.
I give Bleeding Heart 5 lovely kisses and look forward to reading book 2 in this series!
First posted on It's All About the Romance
Giani knows it's his job to keep the Medici descendants safe; he and his brothers carry stone daggers which allow them special powers, for this reason, but Franki isn't making it easy. She's willful, independent, and passionate. He's captivated by her beauty.
Franki is, at first, skeptical of the stranger who unexpectedly shows up on the day of her murdered father's mass, but then strange things start happening and she agrees to his help.
As the danger grows, so too, does their attraction.
Bleeding Heart is a fast-paced novel mixing action, suspense, romance, paranormal magic, and mystery, into one delightful story.
I give Bleeding Heart 5 lovely kisses and look forward to reading book 2 in this series!
First posted on It's All About the Romance
March 11, 2023
After reading the author’s introduction to the book, with glimpses of her own family, I knew I had to buy Bleeding Heart. The story itself is captivating, especially for non-Italians like me. Within the first pages, I was drawn into the culture and history and traveled with the writer. The action is non-stop.
Troilo’s capture of family dynamics leaves lasting impressions. The details, emotions, and behaviors of siblings and parents, and other relatives, bring the story to life. Like in all families, there are secrets. But not all of us have a Medici bloodline or links to a brotherhood.
Tradition, magic, mystery…family. This was a powerful read.
Troilo’s capture of family dynamics leaves lasting impressions. The details, emotions, and behaviors of siblings and parents, and other relatives, bring the story to life. Like in all families, there are secrets. But not all of us have a Medici bloodline or links to a brotherhood.
Tradition, magic, mystery…family. This was a powerful read.
October 23, 2015
Staci Troilo crafted a paranormal romantic thriller set in the heart of Pittsburgh about four sisters who have a secret destiny. After their family suffers the devastating loss of their patriarch, John Notaro, his daughters are the only surviving ancestors of the secret Medici legacy, and are now in danger, slated for the same fate as their father.
When the sisters they finally learn the truth about their legacy, they realize just how much they depend on the Medici Protectorate, the men specifically selected to guard their bloodline. The same protectorate that failed to protect their father.
On the day of her father’s thirty day anniversary mass, Franki has to take a meeting that hadn’t been cancelled. Unknown to her, she meets one of their assigned protectors, Gianni, and feelings spark, not only in her, but with him as well.
Gianni’s feelings for Franki grow as he and his protectorate brothers struggle to protect their charges. Gianni’s secrets and lies make for a tumultuous relationship, but he can’t contain his desire for Franki.
As the sisters’ predicaments intensify, so does the relationship between Frankie and Gianni. As Gianni undergoes uncontrollable physical changes, his troubles grow too. He struggles to gain balance in his work and his relationship with Franki.
Gianni will have to overcome his fears and personal challenges to rescue Franki when her life is in danger. Will he be good enough?
Building suspense, unleashing a range of emotions—love, hate, anguish, and despair—Staci pulled me in immediately. The twists and turns keep the reader engaged and rooting for a happy ending. This is a must-read for everyone who appreciates a good paranormal romantic thriller.
When the sisters they finally learn the truth about their legacy, they realize just how much they depend on the Medici Protectorate, the men specifically selected to guard their bloodline. The same protectorate that failed to protect their father.
On the day of her father’s thirty day anniversary mass, Franki has to take a meeting that hadn’t been cancelled. Unknown to her, she meets one of their assigned protectors, Gianni, and feelings spark, not only in her, but with him as well.
Gianni’s feelings for Franki grow as he and his protectorate brothers struggle to protect their charges. Gianni’s secrets and lies make for a tumultuous relationship, but he can’t contain his desire for Franki.
As the sisters’ predicaments intensify, so does the relationship between Frankie and Gianni. As Gianni undergoes uncontrollable physical changes, his troubles grow too. He struggles to gain balance in his work and his relationship with Franki.
Gianni will have to overcome his fears and personal challenges to rescue Franki when her life is in danger. Will he be good enough?
Building suspense, unleashing a range of emotions—love, hate, anguish, and despair—Staci pulled me in immediately. The twists and turns keep the reader engaged and rooting for a happy ending. This is a must-read for everyone who appreciates a good paranormal romantic thriller.
December 27, 2016
Bleeding Heart reveals a secret organization that has protected the Medici family for generations in preparation for a prophesied prediction of the family's return to power. Now that the predictions are starting to materialize, there's more to bringing the family back than the Brotherhood expected, not to mention the conflict between the protectors and their wards.
I loved the interaction between the women who are the descendants of the Medici family and the men who are charged with keeping them safe. There's enough personality clashes and suppressed attraction to balance the sexual tension with the plot tension. There were a couple times the characters' reactions didn't make sense to me, but it wasn't enough to ruin the rest of the story.
Waiting for the next one!
I loved the interaction between the women who are the descendants of the Medici family and the men who are charged with keeping them safe. There's enough personality clashes and suppressed attraction to balance the sexual tension with the plot tension. There were a couple times the characters' reactions didn't make sense to me, but it wasn't enough to ruin the rest of the story.
Waiting for the next one!
April 23, 2017
Intriguing, & Sexy Read
I was genuinely surprised by this book. At first the prophecy confounds you and then you are not sure what to expect, but after the first and second chapters you are hooked.
I find Ms. Trio's characters fun, dynamic, and their personalities easy to getting attached to. Her ability to submerge the reader is the details of the characters surrounds with out going overboard is wonderful!
I would suggest this book to anyone likes a bit a fantasy with their reality with some steamy scenes that would get almost anyone reaching for a glass of water.
I am excited to resurrected next book goes.
I was genuinely surprised by this book. At first the prophecy confounds you and then you are not sure what to expect, but after the first and second chapters you are hooked.
I find Ms. Trio's characters fun, dynamic, and their personalities easy to getting attached to. Her ability to submerge the reader is the details of the characters surrounds with out going overboard is wonderful!
I would suggest this book to anyone likes a bit a fantasy with their reality with some steamy scenes that would get almost anyone reaching for a glass of water.
I am excited to resurrected next book goes.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews