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Avenging Azalea
MF, Mafia, Age Gap, OW Drama (No Cheating), OTT/JP, Family Drama, Found Family, Interconnected Standalone
I promised that I would avenge her, and I always kept my promises.
I, Titus Mikhailov, am the calm that holds back the storm in my family. For years, I’ve kept the peace, negotiated, and found common ground between those I love most in this world. But some wounds cut too deep and can never be repaired.
My family is falling apart around me, anger swirling as betrayal takes the driver’s seat, and I fear for what will happen next.
So when my brother, my best friend, does the unspeakable, my normally calm demeanor snaps as my life shatters.
Among the turmoil, there is only one person who remains a constant with her unwavering Fawn, my ward. To want her is forbidden. To crave her is a sin, and to love her can destroy the fabric of my life.
There is very little in this world that means anything other than a man’s word, and I promised to take care of Fawn, but how do I protect her from myself?
I promised that I would avenge her, and I always kept my promises.
I, Titus Mikhailov, am the calm that holds back the storm in my family. For years, I’ve kept the peace, negotiated, and found common ground between those I love most in this world. But some wounds cut too deep and can never be repaired.
My family is falling apart around me, anger swirling as betrayal takes the driver’s seat, and I fear for what will happen next.
So when my brother, my best friend, does the unspeakable, my normally calm demeanor snaps as my life shatters.
Among the turmoil, there is only one person who remains a constant with her unwavering Fawn, my ward. To want her is forbidden. To crave her is a sin, and to love her can destroy the fabric of my life.
There is very little in this world that means anything other than a man’s word, and I promised to take care of Fawn, but how do I protect her from myself?
448 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2025
46 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
About the author
Brooklyn Cross
40 books2,134 followersWriting is not just a passion for me. It is a lifeline to my sanity.
I have always loved writing but suffer from severe dyslexia and short-term memory retention issues. I struggled in school while I worked every night on re-training my brain.
I was frequently treated like I would never succeed, and I found myself putting my love for writing on a shelf.
Even at the age of six, I found it easier to communicate with animals than people, which was a big reason why I was drawn to dressage horseback riding. I remained focused on my passion for riding until I had to step away from the competition world for personal reasons.
Today, my desire for writing and storytelling has been rekindled. I have published multiple books and will never let anyone or anything hold me back again.
I am a proud romance author who offers my readers morally grey heroes, a ton of spice, epic journeys, and redemption stories.
-Follow Your Dreams-
I have always loved writing but suffer from severe dyslexia and short-term memory retention issues. I struggled in school while I worked every night on re-training my brain.
I was frequently treated like I would never succeed, and I found myself putting my love for writing on a shelf.
Even at the age of six, I found it easier to communicate with animals than people, which was a big reason why I was drawn to dressage horseback riding. I remained focused on my passion for riding until I had to step away from the competition world for personal reasons.
Today, my desire for writing and storytelling has been rekindled. I have published multiple books and will never let anyone or anything hold me back again.
I am a proud romance author who offers my readers morally grey heroes, a ton of spice, epic journeys, and redemption stories.
-Follow Your Dreams-
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
September 26, 2025
I loved this book even more then the first installment of the series. The first book was definitely “mafia lite” but I would say this one was a lot darker… which is right up my alley
I also appreciated that this book was longer- nothings worse to me than falling in love with characters and the story line just to have it end so quickly
100/10 recommend ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
I also appreciated that this book was longer- nothings worse to me than falling in love with characters and the story line just to have it end so quickly
100/10 recommend ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
August 10, 2025
✨4 stars✨
July 26, 2025
Have you ever read a book and all the sudden wanted a pack of Cane Corsos? No? Just me? Ok, carry on.
First and foremost Brooklyn Cross always captures me with their books. ALWAYS!! Like hook, line, and sinker.
Fawn is offered up to repay a debt caused by her stepfather just shy of her 16th birthday. Titus being Titus knows he can never let her be given to anyone else. Knowing she will end up in the trade. So he takes her home and shelters her for 3 years. All the while, Fawn grows to be an outstanding young lady and a lover of animals.
The older she gets the more she can't deny how many feelings she has for Titus even though he says he doesn't feel the same.
Even after he has agreed to marry someone else. He still protects Fawn with everything he has.
When he's back in to a corner he realizes he can't live without her and he will fight to keep her.
First and foremost Brooklyn Cross always captures me with their books. ALWAYS!! Like hook, line, and sinker.
Fawn is offered up to repay a debt caused by her stepfather just shy of her 16th birthday. Titus being Titus knows he can never let her be given to anyone else. Knowing she will end up in the trade. So he takes her home and shelters her for 3 years. All the while, Fawn grows to be an outstanding young lady and a lover of animals.
The older she gets the more she can't deny how many feelings she has for Titus even though he says he doesn't feel the same.
Even after he has agreed to marry someone else. He still protects Fawn with everything he has.
When he's back in to a corner he realizes he can't live without her and he will fight to keep her.
July 28, 2025
Tropes:
MF
Mafia
Forbidden
Age Gap
I flew through this book in a single day! This is the second book in the series, and while it technically works as a standalone, I highly recommend reading Protective Phlox first to fully appreciate the dynamics and backstory, especially surrounding Titus 🖤
This book follows Titus, who’s introduced as a side character in Protective Phlox. He rescues Fawn from an abusive situation and she becomes his ward. This is NOT an insta-love; it’s a slow burn romance. As Fawn comes of age, the connection between them evolves into something neither of them can ignore. Titus tries so hard to be the stone-cold protector, but Fawn recognizes the softness in him that no one else gets to see.
Trigger warning: some OW drama ⚠️
MF
Mafia
Forbidden
Age Gap
I flew through this book in a single day! This is the second book in the series, and while it technically works as a standalone, I highly recommend reading Protective Phlox first to fully appreciate the dynamics and backstory, especially surrounding Titus 🖤
This book follows Titus, who’s introduced as a side character in Protective Phlox. He rescues Fawn from an abusive situation and she becomes his ward. This is NOT an insta-love; it’s a slow burn romance. As Fawn comes of age, the connection between them evolves into something neither of them can ignore. Titus tries so hard to be the stone-cold protector, but Fawn recognizes the softness in him that no one else gets to see.
Trigger warning: some OW drama ⚠️
July 26, 2025
Okay… I was not ready for the emotional rollercoaster this book threw me on. Azalea is that girl—fierce, broken, vengeful, and honestly? I loved every second of watching her unravel and rebuild. The pain, the power, the revenge? CHEF’S KISS. And don’t even get me started on the male lead—broody, dangerous, and just the right amount of unhinged. Their chemistry? Off. The. Charts. 🔥
Brooklyn Cross did not hold back with the plot twists, and the way she balanced trauma, healing, and raw tension was so well done. If you love a heroine with fire in her veins and a story that makes your chest ache in the best way… this one’s for you.
I devoured it. I felt it. I’ll be thinking about Azalea for a long, long time.
Brooklyn Cross did not hold back with the plot twists, and the way she balanced trauma, healing, and raw tension was so well done. If you love a heroine with fire in her veins and a story that makes your chest ache in the best way… this one’s for you.
I devoured it. I felt it. I’ll be thinking about Azalea for a long, long time.
July 24, 2025
Omgg. THIS is what a mafia romance should be!!!! Sooo much full or intrigue, violence, angst and the best spice ever!!! I sooo loved seeing this couple blossom!! Every page was an unexpected twist and turn! 5 stars!!!
August 14, 2025
Wow!!!! Brooklynn has quickly become one of my favorite authors!!! I haven’t read a book of hers that I don’t absolutely love!!!
Titus saves Fawn when he receives her as payment for a debt. At first he just wants to save her from his world, but when he becomes engaged to help save his family he realizes that he only wants her. 🥰🥰
This book isn’t overly spicy, but it’s freaking amazing. Check TW because she’s dark! 😈
Titus saves Fawn when he receives her as payment for a debt. At first he just wants to save her from his world, but when he becomes engaged to help save his family he realizes that he only wants her. 🥰🥰
This book isn’t overly spicy, but it’s freaking amazing. Check TW because she’s dark! 😈
August 8, 2025
Avenging Azalea: California Made Men Book 2
By Brooklyn Cross
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Always remember to read your trigger warnings!!
Tropes:
🖤Mafia
🖤Forbidden
🖤Br33ding
🖤C*ck Warming
🖤OTT/JP
🖤Age Gap
🖤Guardian/Ward
🖤Voyeurism
🖤Slow Burn
🖤Strong FMC/Non Virgin
🖤Interconnected Standalone
Another amazing installment from Brooklyn Cross!
This is book 2 of the California Made Men series. A interconnected standalone by Brooklyn Cross. And what a fantastic and ridiculously riveting continuation of this series.
Dark, delicious and purely captivating from the very beginning... easily keeping the reader enthralled throughout the entire duration of the read right to the very end!
I loved every single moment of this incredible story & the beautifully crafted characters.
We follow Titus, who was introduced in book 1. Protective Phlox. A slow burn romance between Fawn and Titus! A compelling and captivating relationship filled with emotional intimacy and intrigue! Brilliant chemistry between these well crafted characters.
I was glued to this book from the very first page right to the last!
A work of pure brilliance, full of suspense, emotional intrigue, unexpected twists and turns and a whole load of tension. Wonderful character development and dynamics.
Brooklyn never fails to always have you on the edge of your seats, with her amazing world building skills and thrilling scenes descriptions the deeply emotional and depth of character development. A pure master of her craft!
This is a must read for all Mafia romance fans.
*
Quotes:
"No matter what happens, what the tests say, I will always love you, Little Bird."
"You didn't just crawl under my skin...you rebuilt me from the inside out. And I'll give you every broken piece I have if it means I can keep you."
“I promised that I would avenge her, and I always kept my promises.”
Love me, hate me…I’ll take it. If it means you’ll stay, I’ll take it all and anything else you dish out.
By Brooklyn Cross
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Always remember to read your trigger warnings!!
Tropes:
🖤Mafia
🖤Forbidden
🖤Br33ding
🖤C*ck Warming
🖤OTT/JP
🖤Age Gap
🖤Guardian/Ward
🖤Voyeurism
🖤Slow Burn
🖤Strong FMC/Non Virgin
🖤Interconnected Standalone
Another amazing installment from Brooklyn Cross!
This is book 2 of the California Made Men series. A interconnected standalone by Brooklyn Cross. And what a fantastic and ridiculously riveting continuation of this series.
Dark, delicious and purely captivating from the very beginning... easily keeping the reader enthralled throughout the entire duration of the read right to the very end!
I loved every single moment of this incredible story & the beautifully crafted characters.
We follow Titus, who was introduced in book 1. Protective Phlox. A slow burn romance between Fawn and Titus! A compelling and captivating relationship filled with emotional intimacy and intrigue! Brilliant chemistry between these well crafted characters.
I was glued to this book from the very first page right to the last!
A work of pure brilliance, full of suspense, emotional intrigue, unexpected twists and turns and a whole load of tension. Wonderful character development and dynamics.
Brooklyn never fails to always have you on the edge of your seats, with her amazing world building skills and thrilling scenes descriptions the deeply emotional and depth of character development. A pure master of her craft!
This is a must read for all Mafia romance fans.
*
Quotes:
"No matter what happens, what the tests say, I will always love you, Little Bird."
"You didn't just crawl under my skin...you rebuilt me from the inside out. And I'll give you every broken piece I have if it means I can keep you."
“I promised that I would avenge her, and I always kept my promises.”
Love me, hate me…I’ll take it. If it means you’ll stay, I’ll take it all and anything else you dish out.
July 23, 2025
*MF
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Mafia Romance
*Forbidden (Ward/Guardian)
*Age Gap
*Abused FMC
*OW Drama
*Mid Heat
*Slow Burn
*Standalone
*Interconnected series
Drama, Damage and Denied Feelings 🔥
I really enjoyed this second book in the series…I flew through it in one day 🙈
It follows Titus Mikhailov, introduced in Protecting Phlox, and this story runs alongside/after that events of that book - you can read this entirely independently but it is far better having the understanding from that first book 👍
So Titus has a ward around 12 years his junior who he saves from a horrid situation (and later learns awful life!), as his ward gets older - into acceptable age - he realised his feelings for her have grown 😳 and so have Fawns! She sees the soft souls Titus really is and all he does to maintain the light in his dark world of made men and their depraved dealings 🙈 however Papa Mikhailov has plans for his son that ruins their chance before they’ve even begun 😡 the drama and tension between these two pulls you from pillar to post, especially as they cannot deny what’s between them but cannot act 😣 thankfully hey have some surprise allies, however nothing is ever that simple as the past comes back for our poor leading lady 😫 despite her young age Fawn is level headed and deals with the situation remarkably- not sure is be that reasonable making her a really likeable FMC and you really route for them! Titus, well sometimes I really wanted to slap him upside the head, but he does have a possessive streak and comes through to show our girl what she means to him 🥰
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Mafia Romance
*Forbidden (Ward/Guardian)
*Age Gap
*Abused FMC
*OW Drama
*Mid Heat
*Slow Burn
*Standalone
*Interconnected series
Drama, Damage and Denied Feelings 🔥
I really enjoyed this second book in the series…I flew through it in one day 🙈
It follows Titus Mikhailov, introduced in Protecting Phlox, and this story runs alongside/after that events of that book - you can read this entirely independently but it is far better having the understanding from that first book 👍
So Titus has a ward around 12 years his junior who he saves from a horrid situation (and later learns awful life!), as his ward gets older - into acceptable age - he realised his feelings for her have grown 😳 and so have Fawns! She sees the soft souls Titus really is and all he does to maintain the light in his dark world of made men and their depraved dealings 🙈 however Papa Mikhailov has plans for his son that ruins their chance before they’ve even begun 😡 the drama and tension between these two pulls you from pillar to post, especially as they cannot deny what’s between them but cannot act 😣 thankfully hey have some surprise allies, however nothing is ever that simple as the past comes back for our poor leading lady 😫 despite her young age Fawn is level headed and deals with the situation remarkably- not sure is be that reasonable making her a really likeable FMC and you really route for them! Titus, well sometimes I really wanted to slap him upside the head, but he does have a possessive streak and comes through to show our girl what she means to him 🥰
August 13, 2025
Dark Mafia Romance
OTT Proective Hero
Strong Survivor FMC
Guardian x Ward
Touch Her & Die
Slow Burn
Man, I missed mafia romance, and this was the perfect remedy! I absolutely loved this story, and the chemistry between the two main characters Fawn and Titus. Titus collects Fawn from her stepfather as payment for a debt owed to his father, and instead of handing her over, he pays off the debt himself and takes her in as his ward. He feels fiercely protective of her from the first moment he lays eyes on her, and it becomes his mission to give her safety, stability and security. His world is dangerous but he keeps her protected from it and provides her with the care that she has been robbed of for most of her life.
"She has beautiful wings, untarnished by time, While mine are jaded and tattered by the darkness in this world."
Titus is a complex man living in between two worlds. He is torn between being loyal to his family and following his heart. The story between him and Fawn is so soft and sweet, and it's such a drastic contrast to what he's used to dealing with in his life. I love that he puts her protection above all else, even his own happiness. He does so many sweet things for her, just to make her feel special, and there's just something about the fact that a man who has spent his entire life in a mafia family, surrounded by danger and ruthless men, hasn't lost his heart.
"You didn't just crawl under my skin...you rebuilt me from the inside out. And I'll give you every broken piece I have if it means I can keep you."
When Titus and Fawn finally come together, it is insane. This is a pot that has been ready to burst for a long time, and all that tension and desire just boils over into the most delicious chemistry.
I loved this book, and I am definitely going back and reading book one after this!! Thank you to Brooklyn Cross for an advanced reader's copy.
OTT Proective Hero
Strong Survivor FMC
Guardian x Ward
Touch Her & Die
Slow Burn
Man, I missed mafia romance, and this was the perfect remedy! I absolutely loved this story, and the chemistry between the two main characters Fawn and Titus. Titus collects Fawn from her stepfather as payment for a debt owed to his father, and instead of handing her over, he pays off the debt himself and takes her in as his ward. He feels fiercely protective of her from the first moment he lays eyes on her, and it becomes his mission to give her safety, stability and security. His world is dangerous but he keeps her protected from it and provides her with the care that she has been robbed of for most of her life.
"She has beautiful wings, untarnished by time, While mine are jaded and tattered by the darkness in this world."
Titus is a complex man living in between two worlds. He is torn between being loyal to his family and following his heart. The story between him and Fawn is so soft and sweet, and it's such a drastic contrast to what he's used to dealing with in his life. I love that he puts her protection above all else, even his own happiness. He does so many sweet things for her, just to make her feel special, and there's just something about the fact that a man who has spent his entire life in a mafia family, surrounded by danger and ruthless men, hasn't lost his heart.
"You didn't just crawl under my skin...you rebuilt me from the inside out. And I'll give you every broken piece I have if it means I can keep you."
When Titus and Fawn finally come together, it is insane. This is a pot that has been ready to burst for a long time, and all that tension and desire just boils over into the most delicious chemistry.
I loved this book, and I am definitely going back and reading book one after this!! Thank you to Brooklyn Cross for an advanced reader's copy.
July 26, 2025
a new comfort read
avenging azalea was SO much more than what i was expecting, everything in the story was engaging & made me love the main characters. it was fun seeing that titus & fawn's story started three years prior to the previous book in this series but also most of the events happened along side the previous book's events. fawn fit into titus's life style from the get go too, with how his dogs all instantly warmed up to her like she was part of the pack/family already. it was also so cute to see that fawn named haily & holly. sorry nathanial, but titus just replaced you as my top fav brooklynn cross book boyfriend. fawn & titus's relationship was also nicely done, it wasnt rushed but the wait for them to finally get together, was WORTH it. and so steamy. curious for who's next, my guess is ronan maybe?
avenging azalea was SO much more than what i was expecting, everything in the story was engaging & made me love the main characters. it was fun seeing that titus & fawn's story started three years prior to the previous book in this series but also most of the events happened along side the previous book's events. fawn fit into titus's life style from the get go too, with how his dogs all instantly warmed up to her like she was part of the pack/family already. it was also so cute to see that fawn named haily & holly. sorry nathanial, but titus just replaced you as my top fav brooklynn cross book boyfriend. fawn & titus's relationship was also nicely done, it wasnt rushed but the wait for them to finally get together, was WORTH it. and so steamy. curious for who's next, my guess is ronan maybe?
August 10, 2025
I have to absolutely say that out of The California Made Men Series Titus is my favourite. I fell in love with him when I read Protecting Phlox.
Titus is so sweet and very protective. He’s so protective over Fawn it makes my heart all gooey. Fawn has been through hell and back. So much trauma. But damn she’s a freaking Queen. Nothing will break her. She’s strong, kind, caring, sensitive to other’s feelings and just a good person inside and out. Also let’s not forget she’s a dog lover my kind of gal. I love how Titus is around Fawn. Their chemistry is just sizzling hot. If you love Mafia Romance, amazing characters, trauma in characters, spicy scenes, Alpha MMC, sweet and sassy FMC, twist and turns, shady characters, then you need to download this book.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series. Brooklyn Cross kudos to you on writing an another masterpiece!!!!
Titus is so sweet and very protective. He’s so protective over Fawn it makes my heart all gooey. Fawn has been through hell and back. So much trauma. But damn she’s a freaking Queen. Nothing will break her. She’s strong, kind, caring, sensitive to other’s feelings and just a good person inside and out. Also let’s not forget she’s a dog lover my kind of gal. I love how Titus is around Fawn. Their chemistry is just sizzling hot. If you love Mafia Romance, amazing characters, trauma in characters, spicy scenes, Alpha MMC, sweet and sassy FMC, twist and turns, shady characters, then you need to download this book.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series. Brooklyn Cross kudos to you on writing an another masterpiece!!!!
July 27, 2025
Brooklyn knocked it out of the park again with this book! I loved Titus and Fawn’s story! Mafia family and arranged marriage. Titus steps up to do the arranged marriage for his brothers even though his heart is already with Fawn. Titus is so true to his word and devoted to doing the right thing for the family that he is willing to miss out on his chance on true love and let Fawn go.
Fate happens, well by way of Ronan, and true love brings Titus and Fawn together. Their story, struggles, and triumph is one you don’t want to miss! You won’t want to put this book down once you pick it up. Also, can I just say, Dimitri needs to die a slow and painful death. Check this book out and you will understand.
Can’t wait for the next one!
Fate happens, well by way of Ronan, and true love brings Titus and Fawn together. Their story, struggles, and triumph is one you don’t want to miss! You won’t want to put this book down once you pick it up. Also, can I just say, Dimitri needs to die a slow and painful death. Check this book out and you will understand.
Can’t wait for the next one!
July 26, 2025
Brooklyn Cross never fails to give top tier stories🔥. This is a dark age-gap mafia romance and it was soooo good. It’s an interconnected standalone so you don’t need to read the prior books but it does help give some insight on characters and even connects with another series in the Brooklyn Cross universe. Titus and Fawn are amazing characters with such depth and the development of their relationship is captivating. I read this book in a day I just couldn’t put it down!! Can’t wait for the next one❤️🔥🖤
July 27, 2025
ARC review
Rating: 5.0
Spice: 5.0
I am in love with this book! It had so much going on!
This story was AMAZING! I am speechless and there is so much to say about this book..
The tension that goes on between Titus and Fawn is insane! There is so much chemistry and it is a slow burn.
Brooklyn did an amazing job with this one! I was hooked and felt connected to this story. It felt like a story of someone's life.
Fawn is so strong and so amazing! I love Fawn and Titus! Everything was so good!!
Mafia, forced marriage, and spice!!
Rating: 5.0
Spice: 5.0
I am in love with this book! It had so much going on!
This story was AMAZING! I am speechless and there is so much to say about this book..
The tension that goes on between Titus and Fawn is insane! There is so much chemistry and it is a slow burn.
Brooklyn did an amazing job with this one! I was hooked and felt connected to this story. It felt like a story of someone's life.
Fawn is so strong and so amazing! I love Fawn and Titus! Everything was so good!!
Mafia, forced marriage, and spice!!
July 27, 2025
Never disappointed
Brooklyn never disappoints! she has a way of making a slow burn so great. I love Titus. He may be one of my favorite MMC‘s she has ever written. He is the perfect mix of alpha and adorable golden retriever. Fawn was amazing and overcame so much. I loved her personal growth and although she had help she really did a lot on her own. The dogs were such a nice mix. I really enjoyed seeing some cross over characters from her other series. One of my favorite parts was Ronan’s redemption stunt. I would be all in for a book about him.
Brooklyn never disappoints! she has a way of making a slow burn so great. I love Titus. He may be one of my favorite MMC‘s she has ever written. He is the perfect mix of alpha and adorable golden retriever. Fawn was amazing and overcame so much. I loved her personal growth and although she had help she really did a lot on her own. The dogs were such a nice mix. I really enjoyed seeing some cross over characters from her other series. One of my favorite parts was Ronan’s redemption stunt. I would be all in for a book about him.
July 29, 2025
Alright - i got an ARC a week prior to the release. I really enjoy Brooklyn Cross writing style. It is unique to each character and makes it easy to differentiate between all the different individuals through the interconnected stories. Titus has been one of my favorites since Rebellious Rook and reading his story was a joy. Fawn is adorable and i can see how they both are guided towards each other. The next part, while not a full spoiler, may contain what some think is a spoiler. Read at your own caution.
The only reason i gave it 4 instead of 5 stars is that i was not prepared for was a scene involving animals. i almost NEVER read books with animals in them in any form and in this case, while it doesn't die, i did not like what happened.
The only reason i gave it 4 instead of 5 stars is that i was not prepared for was a scene involving animals. i almost NEVER read books with animals in them in any form and in this case, while it doesn't die, i did not like what happened.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2025
“You didn’t just crawl under my skin…you rebuilt me from the inside out. And I’ll give you every broken piece I have if it means I can keep you.”
Avenging Azalea is the second book in the California Made Men series by Brooklyn Cross. This book is absolutely phenomenal! It’s action-packed, steamy, and has some taboo/dark elements.
I absolutely loved Titus. He tries to keep everyone happy even at the cost of his happiness. Fawn is a great FMC and the dynamics between her and Titus were filled with so much tension. I really need more of them with an extended epilogue or something.
The characters in this series are some of my favorite from Cross. I even started to like Ronan and can’t wait to see more of him. If you enjoy mafia romance then you need to read this book right away!
Avenging Azalea is the second book in the California Made Men series by Brooklyn Cross. This book is absolutely phenomenal! It’s action-packed, steamy, and has some taboo/dark elements.
I absolutely loved Titus. He tries to keep everyone happy even at the cost of his happiness. Fawn is a great FMC and the dynamics between her and Titus were filled with so much tension. I really need more of them with an extended epilogue or something.
The characters in this series are some of my favorite from Cross. I even started to like Ronan and can’t wait to see more of him. If you enjoy mafia romance then you need to read this book right away!
July 25, 2025
This book definitely got my heartbeat racing as this gripping and intense story unfolded. Titus and Fawn were an incredible couple. I loved the forbidden aspect of their relationship, and their sizzling chemistry was absolutely irresistible! Angsty, emotional, steamy, dark, dramatic and tantalizingly twisty, this book was an ultimate page-turner that had me up late, right on the edge of my seat and devouring every single word.
July 28, 2025
my gods this was wonderful. the storyline the passion the jealousy and heartache. all of it was incredible and the pups were a chefs kiss 💋 the fmc going through so much just to survive and finding her safe place with the mmc just had me locked in. I was hoping another character would "expire" but that didn't happen. im hoping it will in the next one. ooooh or bonus content? idk but I loved this story!
July 29, 2025
Brooklyn is literally amazing ! Such a good writer , you must start reading her books.
Titus and fawn story is amazing !
She has such a sad story , she needed rescuing for sure and there he was. This big bad A mafia man to her side .
I could not put this book down!
Entertaining , spicy, sexy , kept me wanting more .
Btw her dad is a pos😮I hated him .
This is a must read
I love Titus and his brother Nathan
Vera needed to go from the moment they said her name! Nice job Ronan 😂😂😂😂
Titus and fawn story is amazing !
She has such a sad story , she needed rescuing for sure and there he was. This big bad A mafia man to her side .
I could not put this book down!
Entertaining , spicy, sexy , kept me wanting more .
Btw her dad is a pos😮I hated him .
This is a must read
I love Titus and his brother Nathan
Vera needed to go from the moment they said her name! Nice job Ronan 😂😂😂😂
July 29, 2025
absolutely perfect!!!
🌺Avenging Azalea🌺
Book Review
Seriously!?
No, seriously!? This book is unbelievable! I absolutely loved it. Brooklyn Cross continues to write better and more beautiful book boyfriends. I can’t get enough of these fictional men. Titus is such a good man—a JP/OTT Alpha male who protects what is his, and Fawn is HIS. Their love story is angsty and emotional, but their chemistry is through the roof. I was rooting for them from the beginning. How in the world is she going to top this? Well, let me tell you, I have so much faith. I’m ready and can’t wait for it. Bring it on, sister! I’m so excited!
🌺Avenging Azalea🌺
Book Review
Seriously!?
No, seriously!? This book is unbelievable! I absolutely loved it. Brooklyn Cross continues to write better and more beautiful book boyfriends. I can’t get enough of these fictional men. Titus is such a good man—a JP/OTT Alpha male who protects what is his, and Fawn is HIS. Their love story is angsty and emotional, but their chemistry is through the roof. I was rooting for them from the beginning. How in the world is she going to top this? Well, let me tell you, I have so much faith. I’m ready and can’t wait for it. Bring it on, sister! I’m so excited!
July 25, 2025
10/10! this book was amazing. i loved the story of titus and fawn. and while the story did end with me having a bit more questions, it also felt complete. i cant wait for ronans story.
July 26, 2025
Where do I begin.
Brooklyn Cross has a writers mind that is amazing and I love the ideas and plots and characters she comes up with! So easy to read along and it flows very well. I fell for Titus at the very beginning and he's absolutely a book boyfriend now. I'm in love...
Brooklyn Cross has a writers mind that is amazing and I love the ideas and plots and characters she comes up with! So easy to read along and it flows very well. I fell for Titus at the very beginning and he's absolutely a book boyfriend now. I'm in love...
August 2, 2025
Absolutely loved Avenging Azalea!
This is book 2 in the California Made Men series and is an interconnected standalone. It follows Titus Mikhailov, a dog loving, mafia, drool worthy MMC, and Fawn (I don’t want to give away her story), but she is super sweet and relatable in so many ways.
This Guardian/Ward romance had me yelling at my kindle screen because of all the twists it took. And a few tears were definitely shed. Brooklyn never disappoints when she writes emotional rollercoasters.
Titus has stolen the spot as my forever book boyfriend, I loved this book so much ♥️
This is book 2 in the California Made Men series and is an interconnected standalone. It follows Titus Mikhailov, a dog loving, mafia, drool worthy MMC, and Fawn (I don’t want to give away her story), but she is super sweet and relatable in so many ways.
This Guardian/Ward romance had me yelling at my kindle screen because of all the twists it took. And a few tears were definitely shed. Brooklyn never disappoints when she writes emotional rollercoasters.
Titus has stolen the spot as my forever book boyfriend, I loved this book so much ♥️
August 17, 2025
Avenging Azalea
By: @author_brooklyncross
4 🌟/ 3 🌶️
I don’t think I’ve ever been so obsessed with an authors’ work. I met Brooklyn at love and Vegas 2024. I didn’t know anything about what she wrote and bought just because her books had pretty sprayed edges. Fast forward to today, I’ve read her entire kings of wayward academy series, and I’m obsessed.
Now for avenging azalea, I was not surprised that I loved this book. It was such a good book. The tension had me biting my nails.
It starts with Titus saving a girl from what would have been a life of tr@fficking because her step father owed some powerful people money. He took care of her and helped her spread her wings and become free from the life she was stuck in. Forced to marry, Titus was already spoken for… ends on a HEA.. and Titus is totally swoon worthy. If you haven’t read anything from Brooklyn cross before, do so now. I promise you will not be disappointed!!!!
#californiamademen #brooklyncrossauthor #bookstagramfyp #avengingazalea #bookstagram #darkromance #mikhailovs #readthisnow #booksbooksbooks
By: @author_brooklyncross
4 🌟/ 3 🌶️
I don’t think I’ve ever been so obsessed with an authors’ work. I met Brooklyn at love and Vegas 2024. I didn’t know anything about what she wrote and bought just because her books had pretty sprayed edges. Fast forward to today, I’ve read her entire kings of wayward academy series, and I’m obsessed.
Now for avenging azalea, I was not surprised that I loved this book. It was such a good book. The tension had me biting my nails.
It starts with Titus saving a girl from what would have been a life of tr@fficking because her step father owed some powerful people money. He took care of her and helped her spread her wings and become free from the life she was stuck in. Forced to marry, Titus was already spoken for… ends on a HEA.. and Titus is totally swoon worthy. If you haven’t read anything from Brooklyn cross before, do so now. I promise you will not be disappointed!!!!
#californiamademen #brooklyncrossauthor #bookstagramfyp #avengingazalea #bookstagram #darkromance #mikhailovs #readthisnow #booksbooksbooks
August 11, 2025
4.5 Stars
Mafia romance is one of my top tropes to read. I love being able to dive in to a really good mafia romance with spice, suspense, intrigue, twists, and action. This is the second book in the California Made Men series and can be read as a standalone. I had not read the first in the series, so I was going into this one almost blind. I have read other books written by Cross, so I had an idea of what to expect, but this book definitely exceeded my expectations. This is one of the better mafia romances that I have had the pleasure to read. I truly believe that slow burns were created as a form of torture, but I thought that the story in this book was so engaging that I was sucked into reading it all and didn’t mind the slow burn as much. The characters were wonderfully written, and the storyline was engaging to the point that I was able to fly through the story. The connection between the two main characters is so strong but I never felt that their relationship was icky or off.
Titus and Fawn have such a wonderfully strong connection. Their story is full of pain and angst but also beautiful. Titus takes Fawn in as his ward to get her away from a horrible situation. He takes her in so that she can have a chance to grow into the amazing woman that she does. She has been through such a horrible life that Titus is the first good thing she has. The relationship between Titus and Fawn could easily be something creepy and ick. Titus took her in when she was a teen and, when she grows into an adult, they realize that their relationship is more. But I never felt that Titus was taking advantage of Fawn or doing anything that was yuck. He was very much the opposite. He was respectful and caring. Titus was such a wonderfully written character and one that you can’t help but love.
This was such a fantastic, well written, entertaining mafia romance. This book was exactly what I have come to expect from Brooklyn Cross. Even though this book is a slow burn, when it does get spicy, the spice is beyond perfect. The chemistry between these characters is off the charts and their connection is amazing. This book gives you everything you want in a mafia romance and everything that you want in a quality book. It is definitely one I would recommend to someone that enjoys a dark mafia romance.
Mafia romance is one of my top tropes to read. I love being able to dive in to a really good mafia romance with spice, suspense, intrigue, twists, and action. This is the second book in the California Made Men series and can be read as a standalone. I had not read the first in the series, so I was going into this one almost blind. I have read other books written by Cross, so I had an idea of what to expect, but this book definitely exceeded my expectations. This is one of the better mafia romances that I have had the pleasure to read. I truly believe that slow burns were created as a form of torture, but I thought that the story in this book was so engaging that I was sucked into reading it all and didn’t mind the slow burn as much. The characters were wonderfully written, and the storyline was engaging to the point that I was able to fly through the story. The connection between the two main characters is so strong but I never felt that their relationship was icky or off.
Titus and Fawn have such a wonderfully strong connection. Their story is full of pain and angst but also beautiful. Titus takes Fawn in as his ward to get her away from a horrible situation. He takes her in so that she can have a chance to grow into the amazing woman that she does. She has been through such a horrible life that Titus is the first good thing she has. The relationship between Titus and Fawn could easily be something creepy and ick. Titus took her in when she was a teen and, when she grows into an adult, they realize that their relationship is more. But I never felt that Titus was taking advantage of Fawn or doing anything that was yuck. He was very much the opposite. He was respectful and caring. Titus was such a wonderfully written character and one that you can’t help but love.
This was such a fantastic, well written, entertaining mafia romance. This book was exactly what I have come to expect from Brooklyn Cross. Even though this book is a slow burn, when it does get spicy, the spice is beyond perfect. The chemistry between these characters is off the charts and their connection is amazing. This book gives you everything you want in a mafia romance and everything that you want in a quality book. It is definitely one I would recommend to someone that enjoys a dark mafia romance.
August 27, 2025
4.7⭐️😮💨🙂↕️
I LOVED EVERY SINGLE SECOND OF THIS BOOK, DO YOU HEAR ME??? Like I was GONEEEE. Unreachable. This book owned me, destroyed me, revived me, and then destroyed me again. Every character had their own little spotlight, even the side ones, and I was just sitting there like: “YESSSSS, SHINEEEE BABY SHINEEEE ✨😭✨.”
FAWN. This girl is EVERYTHING. She stood up for herself, she fought her demons head-on, she didn’t let her trauma define her — she TOOK CONTROL. And the way she didn’t back down??? ICONIC. STRONG. POWERFUL. QUEEN BEHAVIOR 👑. She’s messy and human but so inspiring, and her journey??? I ADORE.
TITUSSSSSSSS. THE MAN. THE LEGEND. THE ABSOLUTE STANDARD. Where do I even start??? The way he loves his girls (the dogs 🐶😭)??? The way he treats Fawn like she hung the moon??? The softness. The patience. The protectiveness. THE SWOONNNNNNNN. He’s literally PERFECTION. LIKE I SAID. PERFECTTTTTTT. If men aren’t like Titus, don’t even talk to me 🙅🏻♀️.
And honorable mention to this one particular side character that im for sure will bloom more and more:
RONANNNNNN. Listen, I KNEW from the start he wasn’t the cold-hearted monster people painted him to be. Deep down, he’s good, just misunderstood, just needed someone to guide him and remind him he’s worthy. AND THEN HIS CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT??? UGH. I swear every time he was on page I was like “YES SIR YOU DESERVE THE WORLD 😭😭😭.” He’s that kind of character you can’t stop rooting for because you know his soul is golden.
And let’s TALK ABOUT THE ANGST. My god, the way this book had me SCREAMING. Like actually feral. Throwing my blanket, pacing my room, pulling my hair. My poor pillow went through it because I kept screaming into it at 2 AM 😭😭😭. The push and pull, the tension, the emotional wreckage — I WAS A MESS. But also living for it???
And can we talk about the way the plot holes are just sitting there waiting??? Like HELLO I SEE YOU 👀 but fine, I’ll let it slide because you just KNOW it’s leading us straight into the next book. And if that next book is RONAN’S??? BEST BELIEVE I’M ALREADY PRE-ORDERING WITH MY SOUL.
This whole thing was just a rollercoaster of emotions — swooning, crying, laughing, screaming, feral chaos. I want to hug it. I want to throw it across the room. I want to reread it immediately. I want MORE.
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA 😩😭
I LOVED EVERY SINGLE SECOND OF THIS BOOK, DO YOU HEAR ME??? Like I was GONEEEE. Unreachable. This book owned me, destroyed me, revived me, and then destroyed me again. Every character had their own little spotlight, even the side ones, and I was just sitting there like: “YESSSSS, SHINEEEE BABY SHINEEEE ✨😭✨.”
FAWN. This girl is EVERYTHING. She stood up for herself, she fought her demons head-on, she didn’t let her trauma define her — she TOOK CONTROL. And the way she didn’t back down??? ICONIC. STRONG. POWERFUL. QUEEN BEHAVIOR 👑. She’s messy and human but so inspiring, and her journey??? I ADORE.
TITUSSSSSSSS. THE MAN. THE LEGEND. THE ABSOLUTE STANDARD. Where do I even start??? The way he loves his girls (the dogs 🐶😭)??? The way he treats Fawn like she hung the moon??? The softness. The patience. The protectiveness. THE SWOONNNNNNNN. He’s literally PERFECTION. LIKE I SAID. PERFECTTTTTTT. If men aren’t like Titus, don’t even talk to me 🙅🏻♀️.
And honorable mention to this one particular side character that im for sure will bloom more and more:
RONANNNNNN. Listen, I KNEW from the start he wasn’t the cold-hearted monster people painted him to be. Deep down, he’s good, just misunderstood, just needed someone to guide him and remind him he’s worthy. AND THEN HIS CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT??? UGH. I swear every time he was on page I was like “YES SIR YOU DESERVE THE WORLD 😭😭😭.” He’s that kind of character you can’t stop rooting for because you know his soul is golden.
And let’s TALK ABOUT THE ANGST. My god, the way this book had me SCREAMING. Like actually feral. Throwing my blanket, pacing my room, pulling my hair. My poor pillow went through it because I kept screaming into it at 2 AM 😭😭😭. The push and pull, the tension, the emotional wreckage — I WAS A MESS. But also living for it???
And can we talk about the way the plot holes are just sitting there waiting??? Like HELLO I SEE YOU 👀 but fine, I’ll let it slide because you just KNOW it’s leading us straight into the next book. And if that next book is RONAN’S??? BEST BELIEVE I’M ALREADY PRE-ORDERING WITH MY SOUL.
This whole thing was just a rollercoaster of emotions — swooning, crying, laughing, screaming, feral chaos. I want to hug it. I want to throw it across the room. I want to reread it immediately. I want MORE.
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA 😩😭
August 1, 2025
💀 Dark Romance
⏳ Age Gap
🛡️ Guardian & Ward
🏠 Forced Proximity
😩 Angst
💔 Trauma & Healing
🐶 Animal Companion Bond
🔥 Slow Burn to Scorching
🧨 Mafia World Morality
👨👦 Found Family Dynamics
🥀 Broken but Beautiful Heroine
🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝐀𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐳𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐚 completely wrecked me—in the best way. From the very first page, I was 𝘪𝘯, and I didn’t want to come up for air until the last word.
The love and connection between Titus and Fawn absolutely captured my heart. What started years earlier as something forged in genuine care, turned into a tender friendship, and evolved into a fiercely intense bond that had me clutching my Kindle. Fawn is such a sweet and gentle soul—someone who’s survived the unimaginable and still manages to move through life with quiet strength, empathy, and an unshakable kindness. Her bond with animals, especially Titus’s pack of dogs (and Winston, you little heart-stealer!), was precious and heartwarming to watch.
And then there’s Titus—𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘸. He’s got all the delicious mafia grit and danger, but there’s also this deep, nurturing side to him that just 𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘵𝘴 you. He’s protective and loyal in that all-consuming way, but it never overshadows Fawn’s own strength—it 𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘦𝘴 it. But don’t let that soft side fool you. You mess with what’s his, and he will absolutely wreck your world.
Their story is packed with push and pull, quiet tenderness, and aching longing, all set against the brutal expectations of mafia life. And let me tell you, when things 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘧𝘵 between them? The heat explodes. That smoldering connection turns into an inferno and I was 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 for it.
I also adored the brother dynamics—Titus and Nathaniel’s relationship was one of my favorite non-romantic parts of the book. And even Ronan shows up 𝘣𝘪𝘨 when it counts, giving a glimpse into the loyalty that runs in their blood. The dogs? 10/10 characters. Every single one.
Avenging Azalea is intense, heartbreaking, and soul-filling. It’s raw, romantic, and full of emotional depth. Absolutely unputdownable.
Special thanks to the author for the gifted copy 🖤
⏳ Age Gap
🛡️ Guardian & Ward
🏠 Forced Proximity
😩 Angst
💔 Trauma & Healing
🐶 Animal Companion Bond
🔥 Slow Burn to Scorching
🧨 Mafia World Morality
👨👦 Found Family Dynamics
🥀 Broken but Beautiful Heroine
🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝐀𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐳𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐚 completely wrecked me—in the best way. From the very first page, I was 𝘪𝘯, and I didn’t want to come up for air until the last word.
The love and connection between Titus and Fawn absolutely captured my heart. What started years earlier as something forged in genuine care, turned into a tender friendship, and evolved into a fiercely intense bond that had me clutching my Kindle. Fawn is such a sweet and gentle soul—someone who’s survived the unimaginable and still manages to move through life with quiet strength, empathy, and an unshakable kindness. Her bond with animals, especially Titus’s pack of dogs (and Winston, you little heart-stealer!), was precious and heartwarming to watch.
And then there’s Titus—𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘸. He’s got all the delicious mafia grit and danger, but there’s also this deep, nurturing side to him that just 𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘵𝘴 you. He’s protective and loyal in that all-consuming way, but it never overshadows Fawn’s own strength—it 𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘦𝘴 it. But don’t let that soft side fool you. You mess with what’s his, and he will absolutely wreck your world.
Their story is packed with push and pull, quiet tenderness, and aching longing, all set against the brutal expectations of mafia life. And let me tell you, when things 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘧𝘵 between them? The heat explodes. That smoldering connection turns into an inferno and I was 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 for it.
I also adored the brother dynamics—Titus and Nathaniel’s relationship was one of my favorite non-romantic parts of the book. And even Ronan shows up 𝘣𝘪𝘨 when it counts, giving a glimpse into the loyalty that runs in their blood. The dogs? 10/10 characters. Every single one.
Avenging Azalea is intense, heartbreaking, and soul-filling. It’s raw, romantic, and full of emotional depth. Absolutely unputdownable.
Special thanks to the author for the gifted copy 🖤
October 10, 2025
I already loved Titus from Nathaniel’s book, but this book? It sealed the deal. He has officially earned his spot in my all-time favorite book boyfriends column. If you're going into Avenging Azalea, know this: it's a slow burn—but every moment is worth the wait.
Titus is the epitome of a perfect book boyfriend. Loyal, devoted, protective… he’s everything. When he rescues Fawn from a cruel and unimaginable fate—being sold off to cover her evil stepfather’s gambling debts—he doesn't just save her life, he transforms it. He gives her safety, stability, and the chance to finally live a life of her own. He never asks for anything in return. He simply shows up for her, over and over again.
Fawn has deep feelings for Titus almost from the beginning, but she respects the boundaries he sets. He’s a true gentleman—never crossing the line, never taking advantage of the trust she places in him. Their bond is immediate and unshakable, rooted in mutual respect, trust, and the quiet comfort they bring each other. He is the only person she can truly rely on, and he never once fails her.
What makes their journey even more emotional is the arranged marriage Titus is forced into for the sake of protecting his family. It’s heartbreaking to watch him trapped in a loveless relationship while his heart clearly belongs to Fawn. And while there’s a touch of other woman drama, Titus never disrespects either woman—he remains faithful in every way that matters.
Their relationship is a slow build, but it's so beautifully done. It’s about healing, growing, and learning to trust in love after darkness. And when they finally get their hard-earned happily ever after? It’s everything.
I cannot rave enough about Titus. He truly sets the bar for what a man should be. Every woman deserves a Titus in her life.
Brooklyn Cross has absolutely outdone herself with this series. The depth of the characters, the emotional journey, the tension, the growth—it’s all so good. I can’t wait to see what she brings us next.
Titus is the epitome of a perfect book boyfriend. Loyal, devoted, protective… he’s everything. When he rescues Fawn from a cruel and unimaginable fate—being sold off to cover her evil stepfather’s gambling debts—he doesn't just save her life, he transforms it. He gives her safety, stability, and the chance to finally live a life of her own. He never asks for anything in return. He simply shows up for her, over and over again.
Fawn has deep feelings for Titus almost from the beginning, but she respects the boundaries he sets. He’s a true gentleman—never crossing the line, never taking advantage of the trust she places in him. Their bond is immediate and unshakable, rooted in mutual respect, trust, and the quiet comfort they bring each other. He is the only person she can truly rely on, and he never once fails her.
What makes their journey even more emotional is the arranged marriage Titus is forced into for the sake of protecting his family. It’s heartbreaking to watch him trapped in a loveless relationship while his heart clearly belongs to Fawn. And while there’s a touch of other woman drama, Titus never disrespects either woman—he remains faithful in every way that matters.
Their relationship is a slow build, but it's so beautifully done. It’s about healing, growing, and learning to trust in love after darkness. And when they finally get their hard-earned happily ever after? It’s everything.
I cannot rave enough about Titus. He truly sets the bar for what a man should be. Every woman deserves a Titus in her life.
Brooklyn Cross has absolutely outdone herself with this series. The depth of the characters, the emotional journey, the tension, the growth—it’s all so good. I can’t wait to see what she brings us next.
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