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Lucky Kings #1
Sinful Sacrifice
The first time I meet Damien Bellini, he offers to erase half my father’s debt if I dance for him.
That one dance sparks his obsession with me.
He’s the last man I should fall for.
A cold-blooded killer who works for the Lombardi crime family.
But whenever I’m with him, he makes my blood burn hot.
What he doesn’t know is that my uncle is the head of the Boston mob.
When he demands I marry Damien for the sake of a contract, I refuse.
My refusal creates a domino effect, and my world comes crashing down.
Just when I think it’s over, I get a wedding invitation that changes everything.
That one dance sparks his obsession with me.
He’s the last man I should fall for.
A cold-blooded killer who works for the Lombardi crime family.
But whenever I’m with him, he makes my blood burn hot.
What he doesn’t know is that my uncle is the head of the Boston mob.
When he demands I marry Damien for the sake of a contract, I refuse.
My refusal creates a domino effect, and my world comes crashing down.
Just when I think it’s over, I get a wedding invitation that changes everything.
370 pages, Paperback
Published August 28, 2024
578 people are currently reading
3155 people want to read
About the author
Charity Ferrell
49 books3,158 followersCharity Ferrell is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, #1 Amazon, and #1 Apple bestselling author.
She resides in Indianapolis, Indiana. When she’s not writing, she’s hanging out with her dog, on a Starbucks run, shopping online, or spending time with her family.
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INSTAGRAM: @charityferrell
She resides in Indianapolis, Indiana. When she’s not writing, she’s hanging out with her dog, on a Starbucks run, shopping online, or spending time with her family.
JOIN MY NL: https://bit.ly/2YHF7im
JOIN MY READER GROUP: https://bit.ly/31ugXIY
WEBSITE: http://charityferrell.com
FOLLOW ME ON:
TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@charityferrell
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/authorcharityferrell
INSTAGRAM: @charityferrell
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 319 reviews
August 28, 2024
dnf @53%
this book is 90% smut and I’m not in the mood for it.
this book is 90% smut and I’m not in the mood for it.
September 9, 2024
I love an obsessed mafia man
Started this one at 1am & stayed up too late reading
Things to know:
Mafia Capo x Ballerina
He’s obsessed
Insta-lust
Dual POV
Time jumps
You’re mine
Spicy
Started this one at 1am & stayed up too late reading
Things to know:
Mafia Capo x Ballerina
He’s obsessed
Insta-lust
Dual POV
Time jumps
You’re mine
Spicy
dnf
August 19, 2024Yippieee i got an ARC HEHHEHE
August 17, 2024
ARC REVIEW 🩷
thank you so much to valentine pr & charity for the arc!
I LOVE THEM SO MUCH 😭. i was so intrigued by pippa & damien in gorgeous villian - this book lived up to my excitement for it.
damien - despite being an unhinged capo - was an ultimate lover boy!!!! he was so soft for pippa. there was so many soft moments initiated by him that had my heart melting. he is truly one of the softest - in private - mafia mmc’s i have ever read and i loved reading every second of his pov’s.
pippa was so fun to read she was the perfect mix of sweet and sassy. she knew what was right and wasn’t afraid to stand up for herself. i loved how stubborn she was but also how she did feel so much on the inside, basically like a front! 🥺
them together was just so adorable but also so funny and whitty. with every one of charity’s mafia books, they’re always full of whit and banter as well as a heavy plot. in every single mafia book of her’s so far i have sat there thinking ‘how the hell are they gonna get their happy ending’ but it always works out in the best way.
i loved how this book was set into two acts, i feel like this was perfect for their story line. the glimpses you see in gorgeous villian of them, they are arguing, so it was so good to be able to see what let them to the bad times and how they was before the bad times. seeing them fall in love just showed how much they were made for each other and it was just so sweet.
i always love the plot twists in charity’s books and feel like despite being the conflict in the book, they sometimes are my favourite parts because they’re so addictive and adrenaline filled it just keeps me on my toes 🤣.
also loved how the plots are written and explained so well, you’ll never be confused as they’re just so easy to follow and read.
i think every girl aspires to be loved like this:
“I’d rip my heart out of my chest and give it to her if she needed one.”
“She could charge at me with a knife and bludgeon me through the goddamn heart, and I wouldn’t hurt her. I’d take the pain because I’d rather endure it than her.”
and i also loved julian 😂:
“My brother is obsessed with you. You could ask him to buy you a goddamn goat, and he’d ask you to choose your favorite color. And probably make me take it on fucking walks.”
thank you so much to valentine pr & charity for the arc!
I LOVE THEM SO MUCH 😭. i was so intrigued by pippa & damien in gorgeous villian - this book lived up to my excitement for it.
damien - despite being an unhinged capo - was an ultimate lover boy!!!! he was so soft for pippa. there was so many soft moments initiated by him that had my heart melting. he is truly one of the softest - in private - mafia mmc’s i have ever read and i loved reading every second of his pov’s.
pippa was so fun to read she was the perfect mix of sweet and sassy. she knew what was right and wasn’t afraid to stand up for herself. i loved how stubborn she was but also how she did feel so much on the inside, basically like a front! 🥺
them together was just so adorable but also so funny and whitty. with every one of charity’s mafia books, they’re always full of whit and banter as well as a heavy plot. in every single mafia book of her’s so far i have sat there thinking ‘how the hell are they gonna get their happy ending’ but it always works out in the best way.
i loved how this book was set into two acts, i feel like this was perfect for their story line. the glimpses you see in gorgeous villian of them, they are arguing, so it was so good to be able to see what let them to the bad times and how they was before the bad times. seeing them fall in love just showed how much they were made for each other and it was just so sweet.
i always love the plot twists in charity’s books and feel like despite being the conflict in the book, they sometimes are my favourite parts because they’re so addictive and adrenaline filled it just keeps me on my toes 🤣.
also loved how the plots are written and explained so well, you’ll never be confused as they’re just so easy to follow and read.
i think every girl aspires to be loved like this:
“I’d rip my heart out of my chest and give it to her if she needed one.”
“She could charge at me with a knife and bludgeon me through the goddamn heart, and I wouldn’t hurt her. I’d take the pain because I’d rather endure it than her.”
and i also loved julian 😂:
“My brother is obsessed with you. You could ask him to buy you a goddamn goat, and he’d ask you to choose your favorite color. And probably make me take it on fucking walks.”
August 25, 2024
“I bleed for you.”
HOLY WOW! Author Charity Ferrell has added another gem to her mafia romance world. Sinful Sacrifice is a heart-pounding, petal-to-the-metal tale that held me prisoner the whole time reading. I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
This bang up book blazes with fire, desire and darkness as it wraps you in a blanket of swoon and soulful love. A heart-stopping sexy hero with a touch-her-and-die persona, explosive plot, and edge-of-your-seat danger … oh mylanta … I was undone!
Set in the Marchetti-Lombardo world, Sinful Sacrifice kicks off the Lucky Stars series. This second-chance mafia romance stars two soulmates who find solace in each other. Damian and Pippa are full of fire with a connection so fierce and fire-hot that it just radiates throughout the story. This hero and heroine are undeniable.
An addictive page turner of fiery heat and heart, forbidden love, burning angst, entertaining inner thoughts and a combustible connection, Sinful Sacrifice is all the permanent hangover material. My heart beat and bled for this book. My body and soul were on fire! I was such a GONER for this love story. Hook. Line. Sinker. Done.
“Words of advice: If my Mafia boyfriend can text me amid his crimes, then so can yours.”
💋💋💋💋💋 sweet and sinful kisses
➡️ https://amzn.to/3YW4I72
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
HOLY WOW! Author Charity Ferrell has added another gem to her mafia romance world. Sinful Sacrifice is a heart-pounding, petal-to-the-metal tale that held me prisoner the whole time reading. I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
This bang up book blazes with fire, desire and darkness as it wraps you in a blanket of swoon and soulful love. A heart-stopping sexy hero with a touch-her-and-die persona, explosive plot, and edge-of-your-seat danger … oh mylanta … I was undone!
Set in the Marchetti-Lombardo world, Sinful Sacrifice kicks off the Lucky Stars series. This second-chance mafia romance stars two soulmates who find solace in each other. Damian and Pippa are full of fire with a connection so fierce and fire-hot that it just radiates throughout the story. This hero and heroine are undeniable.
An addictive page turner of fiery heat and heart, forbidden love, burning angst, entertaining inner thoughts and a combustible connection, Sinful Sacrifice is all the permanent hangover material. My heart beat and bled for this book. My body and soul were on fire! I was such a GONER for this love story. Hook. Line. Sinker. Done.
“Words of advice: If my Mafia boyfriend can text me amid his crimes, then so can yours.”
💋💋💋💋💋 sweet and sinful kisses
➡️ https://amzn.to/3YW4I72
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
Read
September 1, 2024This was one of my most anticipated reads of 2024 so imagine my disappointment that I'm shelving this a DNF.
I was anticipating a shit ton of OW drama and imagine my surprise when I found barely any..
With the way I'm going this year I should just stick with rereads.
I was anticipating a shit ton of OW drama and imagine my surprise when I found barely any..
With the way I'm going this year I should just stick with rereads.
October 31, 2024
OMG THIS IS SO DAMN GOOD
August 29, 2024
Because of the way these series are written, the characters and timelines overflow with one another. So, in the Marchetti series, we've met both Damien and Pippa. Especially in book three, Gorgeous Villian.
So, while I know you could read this one without the other series, the complicated relationships between all of these mafia families can be kinda detailed. But this one is also the start of a new series and has it own mafia family to explore that's brand new (to us).
Damien works for the Lombardi family. He's loyal and ruthless. When he meets Pippa, he's attracted. She's trying to pay her father's gambling debt, and it's a great thing he saw her first. And not his crazy boss.
Out of all the mafia romances in this world we've read, this one is the closest one to... a normal relationship. This means Pippa gets some say in her life. But the decisions she makes keep her away from Damien, and it's pretty sad. And super angsty. They have people working against them and their happiness, so they really have to fight to be together. Especially when Damien gets in a super big pickle.
I enjoyed Damien the most out of all of our mafia men. He's crazy about Pippa. Don't get me wrong, he'll do anything for her. But these two are on some more equal ground. Probably because they really get to date. <3
If you haven't gotten into this mafia world, do yourself a favor and start it! This one has such a girl boss twist at the end.
So, while I know you could read this one without the other series, the complicated relationships between all of these mafia families can be kinda detailed. But this one is also the start of a new series and has it own mafia family to explore that's brand new (to us).
Damien works for the Lombardi family. He's loyal and ruthless. When he meets Pippa, he's attracted. She's trying to pay her father's gambling debt, and it's a great thing he saw her first. And not his crazy boss.
Out of all the mafia romances in this world we've read, this one is the closest one to... a normal relationship. This means Pippa gets some say in her life. But the decisions she makes keep her away from Damien, and it's pretty sad. And super angsty. They have people working against them and their happiness, so they really have to fight to be together. Especially when Damien gets in a super big pickle.
I enjoyed Damien the most out of all of our mafia men. He's crazy about Pippa. Don't get me wrong, he'll do anything for her. But these two are on some more equal ground. Probably because they really get to date. <3
If you haven't gotten into this mafia world, do yourself a favor and start it! This one has such a girl boss twist at the end.
August 28, 2024
SINFUL SACRIFICE is a book that exceeds expectations in all areas of a mafia romance. The spice is flaming hot, the “interrogations” delivered without much emotion, the arranged marriages ruthless, and the bad guys of the bad guys particularly slimy.
But my favorite part is that Damien falls hard, falls first, and never lets up on what he would do to make Pippa happy or keep her safe even when she makes choice they both suffer for. As an advance copy reader I can offer the opinion that you will find this book really good if you love possessive, spicy mafia romance.
But my favorite part is that Damien falls hard, falls first, and never lets up on what he would do to make Pippa happy or keep her safe even when she makes choice they both suffer for. As an advance copy reader I can offer the opinion that you will find this book really good if you love possessive, spicy mafia romance.
October 21, 2024
3.7 stars!⭐₊˚₊˚₊˚
This rating hurt me big time because ever since I knew about Damien and Pippa in Gorgeous Villain I was like 'my body is redeh'
It started well but then got meh, then annoying, and then okay. What am I even saying? I don't know how to explain it, but this book was a bit of a letdown.
If you've read Gigi and Antonio's story, you've met Damien and Pippa. It was clear they were a couple, but Damien was a stalker and engaged to Pippa's cousin. Lsskskksks come ON, like I knew the angst was going to be top, and I was expecting groveling from Damien.
I was so wrong lmao Damien was the greenest flag ever (as much as a mafia could ever lol). Pippa was the annoying hoe, this bish needed to be on her knees.
Listen, I'm going to write the full plot with opinions, so if you haven't read and don't mind, continue.
I understand Pippa was traumatised because of her parents - her mom had an arranged marriage and she fled and married Pippa's dad, who ended up being a gambling addict, and good for nothing., and as a result, her family cut her off and well, you know how it goes.
Pippa met Damien when her father sent her to the Lucky Casino to settle his own debt. Damien became obsessed with Pippa and after some events, they got together.
Pippa's uncle is from the Irish Mafia and he wanted her to marry Damien (you know, connections) but Pippa wanted a real relationship and marriage so she declined Damien's proposal (wasn't really one but he was down to marry her), and they accepted to date for a year or so and then marry.
The problem? Pippa's uncle killed her father and Damien knew about it and didn't tell her, so when her uncle told her about this she broke up with Damien. LMAO ???????? like Damien literally gave her everything - protection for her and her family (minus dad), a ballet studio, his place to stay, etc etc and they even exchanged ILY's, and she broke up with him as if he killed her father wtf...
Anyways, they stay broken for a year or so, but still smex (when she called lol), and he stillstalked protected her. soooo when shit goes down with Antonio Lombardi, they needed Pippa's uncle support and of course, he takes advantage of the situation and forms a marriage pact with her daughter Pippa's cousin) and Antonio, but because Antonio was already married to Gigi, then the contract goes to Damien (and he accepted it).
Jokes on Pippa because her uncle still arranged a marriage for her (it was firstly for her sister but Pippa offered herself of course) and lol, I can't even. and worst because when Damien tries to save Pippa, the uncle demands his daughter be pregnant within six months. you can imagine Pippa's face skksksksks
Can you see this??? LIKE WTF PIPPA YOU WERE NEVER GOING TO BE FREE FROM YOUR UNCLE, YOU SHOULDVE ACCEPTED DAMIEN'S PROPOSAL SKSKSKKS I'M SORRY DAMIEN YOU DESERVED BETTER.
And I'm not kidding, Riona was the better option for Damien but anyway... sigh,... .. the angst didn't give what needed to be given. Their breakup was dumb af, and the epilogue was cute.
BTW! I'm so excited to read Julian's story omgggg is Genesis the heroine? idk because it says enemies to lovers, and they didn't give enemies vibe lol and idk call me crazy but Genesis and Emilio are better fit... and I'm not sure because she kinda likes to be watched when you know so maybe MFM.
So, Sinful Ruin maybe Julian and Riona? I DON'T KNOW I CAN'T WAIT UNTIL JUNE 2025
Safety
ow/om: Yes, Damien was engaged to Pippa's cousin - they never kissed nor had smex, it was arranged. Pippa kinda flirted with two OM making Damien jealous lol.
Celibate during separation (well, they still had sex with each other lol), Damien wasn't a manho - perfect guy I'm telling you.
Condoms are used sometimes. HEA, a baby girl in the epilogue.
This rating hurt me big time because ever since I knew about Damien and Pippa in Gorgeous Villain I was like 'my body is redeh'
It started well but then got meh, then annoying, and then okay. What am I even saying? I don't know how to explain it, but this book was a bit of a letdown.
If you've read Gigi and Antonio's story, you've met Damien and Pippa. It was clear they were a couple, but Damien was a stalker and engaged to Pippa's cousin. Lsskskksks come ON, like I knew the angst was going to be top, and I was expecting groveling from Damien.
I was so wrong lmao Damien was the greenest flag ever (as much as a mafia could ever lol). Pippa was the annoying hoe, this bish needed to be on her knees.
Listen, I'm going to write the full plot with opinions, so if you haven't read and don't mind, continue.
I understand Pippa was traumatised because of her parents - her mom had an arranged marriage and she fled and married Pippa's dad, who ended up being a gambling addict, and good for nothing., and as a result, her family cut her off and well, you know how it goes.
Pippa met Damien when her father sent her to the Lucky Casino to settle his own debt. Damien became obsessed with Pippa and after some events, they got together.
Pippa's uncle is from the Irish Mafia and he wanted her to marry Damien (you know, connections) but Pippa wanted a real relationship and marriage so she declined Damien's proposal (wasn't really one but he was down to marry her), and they accepted to date for a year or so and then marry.
The problem? Pippa's uncle killed her father and Damien knew about it and didn't tell her, so when her uncle told her about this she broke up with Damien. LMAO ???????? like Damien literally gave her everything - protection for her and her family (minus dad), a ballet studio, his place to stay, etc etc and they even exchanged ILY's, and she broke up with him as if he killed her father wtf...
Anyways, they stay broken for a year or so, but still smex (when she called lol), and he still
Jokes on Pippa because her uncle still arranged a marriage for her (it was firstly for her sister but Pippa offered herself of course) and lol, I can't even. and worst because when Damien tries to save Pippa, the uncle demands his daughter be pregnant within six months. you can imagine Pippa's face skksksksks
Can you see this??? LIKE WTF PIPPA YOU WERE NEVER GOING TO BE FREE FROM YOUR UNCLE, YOU SHOULDVE ACCEPTED DAMIEN'S PROPOSAL SKSKSKKS I'M SORRY DAMIEN YOU DESERVED BETTER.
And I'm not kidding, Riona was the better option for Damien but anyway... sigh,... .. the angst didn't give what needed to be given. Their breakup was dumb af, and the epilogue was cute.
BTW! I'm so excited to read Julian's story omgggg is Genesis the heroine? idk because it says enemies to lovers, and they didn't give enemies vibe lol and idk call me crazy but Genesis and Emilio are better fit... and I'm not sure because she kinda likes to be watched when you know so maybe MFM.
So, Sinful Ruin maybe Julian and Riona? I DON'T KNOW I CAN'T WAIT UNTIL JUNE 2025
Safety
ow/om: Yes, Damien was engaged to Pippa's cousin - they never kissed nor had smex, it was arranged. Pippa kinda flirted with two OM making Damien jealous lol.
Celibate during separation (well, they still had sex with each other lol), Damien wasn't a manho - perfect guy I'm telling you.
Condoms are used sometimes. HEA, a baby girl in the epilogue.
March 30, 2025
The main characters were stupid. And useless. Honestly, Riona stole the show -the ow he was supposed to marry- even though she appeared in just a few chapters, she is already my favourite. Unlike the good for nothing wanna be gangster Damien who was ready to impregnate ow if necessary, was delaying coming up with any kind of plan to eliminate the obstacle. An unnecessary conflict which ofc could've been easily avoided if not for the stupidity of these horny ass characters.
Missed an opportunity to be an angsty plotline with the "hero forced to marry someone else" trope but alas, the conflict was ridiculous and lacked any genuine impact that you can take seriously.
Read this if you're in the mood of insta-love, won't stop having sex long enough to string two logical rational thoughts inside their brain, characters.
Missed an opportunity to be an angsty plotline with the "hero forced to marry someone else" trope but alas, the conflict was ridiculous and lacked any genuine impact that you can take seriously.
Read this if you're in the mood of insta-love, won't stop having sex long enough to string two logical rational thoughts inside their brain, characters.
September 9, 2024
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Trope: instalove; star-crossed lovers
Angst:😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
This is not my first book by Ms. Ferrell, but this is the first one I've struggled with. I just had a really hard time getting into the story, and it felt like the first half was very slow. I did enjoy seeing lots of characters from previous faves and will still be reading the next book she puts out. This one was just not for me.
Trope: instalove; star-crossed lovers
Angst:😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
This is not my first book by Ms. Ferrell, but this is the first one I've struggled with. I just had a really hard time getting into the story, and it felt like the first half was very slow. I did enjoy seeing lots of characters from previous faves and will still be reading the next book she puts out. This one was just not for me.
August 26, 2024
Charity Ferrell's "Sinful Sacrifice" has me craving for a world of mafia men, wishing for my own romance with a made man. When I started my journey, Charity was of the first authors I read—I fell in love with her writing, so naturally, I had to dive into "Sinful Sacrifice," and it did not disappoint! The rapid-paced journey, the intricate plot, and the thrill of falling in love had me swooning, as well as the “touch her & d!e/you can run from me but you can’t hide “ tropes. Can you say hawt!? A definite must-read for fans of mafia romance! Damien and Pippa's story is simply captivating. I give it 4.5 stars!
August 27, 2024
Favorite Line from the book: They’re light pink and delicate like no one has ever kissed her passionate enough to rough them up (this freaking make me think for a second there like yeah why are my lips not rough cause it hasn’t been kissed enough 😆)
I just finished Sinful Sacrifice and let me tell you, this book brought the heat! As my first dive into mafia romance, I wasn't sure what to expect, but an FMC who's a ballerina paired with a mafia boss? Surprisingly, it works—and it’s spicy right from Chapter 3! SPICEEEEEEEEEE! Damien loves eating her 😝
I loved the first half of the book, with its sizzling tension and unique pairing. Although I started to lose a bit of interest in the second half due to Uncle Koglin, overall, it's a solid starter for anyone looking to get into the mafia romance genre and I believe Damien and Pippa were mentioned in the other books.
And Damien? Total green flag—no red flags in sight, which was a refreshing twist. If you’re looking for a steamy, intriguing read with a dash of danger, this one's for you!
Thank you Valentine PR for the ARC of this book ❤️
I just finished Sinful Sacrifice and let me tell you, this book brought the heat! As my first dive into mafia romance, I wasn't sure what to expect, but an FMC who's a ballerina paired with a mafia boss? Surprisingly, it works—and it’s spicy right from Chapter 3! SPICEEEEEEEEEE! Damien loves eating her 😝
I loved the first half of the book, with its sizzling tension and unique pairing. Although I started to lose a bit of interest in the second half due to Uncle Koglin, overall, it's a solid starter for anyone looking to get into the mafia romance genre and I believe Damien and Pippa were mentioned in the other books.
And Damien? Total green flag—no red flags in sight, which was a refreshing twist. If you’re looking for a steamy, intriguing read with a dash of danger, this one's for you!
Thank you Valentine PR for the ARC of this book ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2024
Yesss! Damien and Pippa for the win! This book was so good the chemistry the sexual tension the push and pull between these two was absolutely incredible! I loved how OTT protective Damien was , this series is seriously one of my favorite Mafia romance series the women bring their men to their knees and love them fiercely and the men are so protective and love them back just as fiercely if not more! I devoured this book I ate it up all the suspense the twists and turns, the sexy banter and I adored Pippa’s sass ! Oh and the spice OMG you are always guaranteed some epic spicy scenes when Charity Ferrell is at the writing helm ! This book deserves all the stars!
Read
May 13, 2025This was all over the place
September 12, 2024
“Entertain me, my sweet dancer, and I’ll give you a round of applause with my tongue later.”
A mafia man and a mafia adjacent ballet dancer. This story all starts with a debt and ends with a contract. If you’ve read Charity’s other mafia series, then you’ve met Damien from sort of an enemies POV and the heroine Pippa briefly as well. I loved these two in this book. There is a lot of push and pull between them, but there’s also a lot of love as well. Pippa wants far away from the criminal lifestyle, but she can’t help falling for Damien because he truly is all in with her the moment he meets her. Anyway. If you want a mafia story that’s emotional, spicy, funny, and angsty, then absolutely pick up Sinful Sacrifice or even read the Marchetti Mafia series first. You don’t have to, but it has the same vibes if you enjoy this book. Can’t wait for book two!
Tiktok- https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8Jo46w4/
A mafia man and a mafia adjacent ballet dancer. This story all starts with a debt and ends with a contract. If you’ve read Charity’s other mafia series, then you’ve met Damien from sort of an enemies POV and the heroine Pippa briefly as well. I loved these two in this book. There is a lot of push and pull between them, but there’s also a lot of love as well. Pippa wants far away from the criminal lifestyle, but she can’t help falling for Damien because he truly is all in with her the moment he meets her. Anyway. If you want a mafia story that’s emotional, spicy, funny, and angsty, then absolutely pick up Sinful Sacrifice or even read the Marchetti Mafia series first. You don’t have to, but it has the same vibes if you enjoy this book. Can’t wait for book two!
Tiktok- https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8Jo46w4/
March 25, 2025
4.5 stars
Updating my review after listening to the audio... I loved hearing the characters brought to life! The suspense and mafia elements were brought up a notch and I loved hearing the characters connect!
This was my first book by the author and what a rollercoaster ride! I was so surprised by some of the twists and turns.
I was instantly in love with Damien and couldn't get enough of him! I loved how he was all in with Pippa right from the start. Pippa is definitely a new favorite FMC with all of her sass!
My favorite part about this book was definitely the banter between the main characters. I can't remember laughing this hard at a mafia book before!
I totally need to go back and read some of the stories from the other characters mentioned and I can't wait for the next in the series!
Updating my review after listening to the audio... I loved hearing the characters brought to life! The suspense and mafia elements were brought up a notch and I loved hearing the characters connect!
This was my first book by the author and what a rollercoaster ride! I was so surprised by some of the twists and turns.
I was instantly in love with Damien and couldn't get enough of him! I loved how he was all in with Pippa right from the start. Pippa is definitely a new favorite FMC with all of her sass!
My favorite part about this book was definitely the banter between the main characters. I can't remember laughing this hard at a mafia book before!
I totally need to go back and read some of the stories from the other characters mentioned and I can't wait for the next in the series!
September 8, 2024
I dont know why this has so many good reviews, but why would anybody in their right mind who lost his whole family will first go and have sex with the girl he met in the morning.
Couldn't wrap my mind around it. DNF'd at 8%.
Couldn't wrap my mind around it. DNF'd at 8%.
August 23, 2024
If 10 ⭐️ was possible, you best believe that would’ve been my rating for Sinful Sacrifice.
Charity Ferrell went above and beyond with Damien and Pippa’s Second Chance, Mafia Romance story.
It sure as hell blew the Marchetti Mafia series out of water with the absolute, incredible-ness that was this exceptionally amazing, emotionally high, angsty driven, suspenseful building, tension riding, drama filled, love story that was just chefs kiss!
Sinful Sacrifice is book one in author Charity Ferrell's Mafia Romance series; Lucky Kings.
The first book has us following Damien Bellini the capo for Lombardi family and Pippa Charlotte Elsher, both of who we first meet in Marchetti Mafia series.
From very early on, there was no doubt in my mind Sinful Sacrifice would be a 5 ⭐️ read.
Emotionally charged. Highs of angsty-ness. And never ending explosive chemistry shared between the Damien and Pippa.
Was it any surprise the two had you falling down the rabbit hole when it came to reading their love story, devouring each and every page like there's no tomorrow.
Although the story focused heavily around the character development of Damien and Pippa, alongside the unfolding of their evolving relationship.
That’s not to say there wasn’t more going on, particularly in the background, given the subplots that contributed to the overall narrative.
Seeing the development of Damien and Pippa's characters was showcased so well and thoroughly detailed.
Considering the story was told through dual POVs, it allowed us to get a real feel for both the characters. Unravelling their layers, getting deep down in the nitty grittiness of who they were individually, the lives they led, including their careers and most importantly all that they felt and endured in not only every situation and event they faced and sometimes suffered through. But towards one another, seeing as Damien and Pippa's relationship was quite the whirlwind ride, due to being super emotionally charged.
Honestly when it came to them both, they always seemed to unleash a tidal wave of emotions at each and every turn. Not just from within their relationship. But also from all that the two were experiencing and dealing with when it came to their own feelings. Something author Charity always made loud and clear in Damien and Pippa's inner monologue within their POV chapters.
This resulted in my heart being put through the wringer, particularly from the heartache, pain, hurt and sadness the two endured due to outside forces trying to come in between them and cause problems that left them with no way out.
As for the subplots, it brought forth not only secondary characters in the form of friends and families, some of who were considered enemies. And some that included worlds colliding, with the appearances of characters from Marchetti Mafia series. Showcasing not only how they fit into the storyline. But why, considering the drama from the ups and downs, pushing and pulling of situations and events the two faced. Mainly due to outside forces coming into play.
Action packed thrills courtesy of the mafia aspect, all the while secrets, lies and deceit and the mystery building led to growing suspense contributing in creating even more bumps and hurdles Damien and Pippa needed to face and overcome in their already wild journey.
Was it any wonder it had me gripped on tight, never wanting to let go.
It goes without saying, the tumultuous whirlwind ride that author Charity delivered in the storytelling of Damien and Pippa was highly worthwhile.
Each and every page turn of Sinful Sacrifice lured you in, only to trap you with being so consumed in seeing the unfolding of their relationship within the evolving narrative.
Major props to Charity Ferrell for delivering a beautiful story that was Sinful Sacrifice.
Even after finishing, she had me wanting more, wishing it hadn’t ended, which speaks volumes of how phenomenal Damien and Pippa’s story truly was.
With that said, knowing this is the first book from Lucky Kings series, you best believe it has me excited for the next Sinful Ruin and seeing how Julian’s story will play out.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2024
Everything I wanted and more! I was so excited that Charity finally released this book after getting a snippet of who would be involved in the previous release, and she did not disappoint on this storyline nor the characters! Damien works for the Lombardi family, really being the right-hand man for the head of the family and his loyalty runs deep. He meets Pippa one night covering for someone else and instead of taking advantage of her, he saves her, although she doesn’t know that, but the chemistry is so strong between them that they continue to spend time together, even embarking in a relationship regardless of her family. Everything changes when Damien helps save the family and agrees to an arranged marriage to Pippa’s cousin, because she is very against the very thought of an arrangement, subsequently causing their breakup. Pippa’s uncle isn’t one to let things lie though, especially since he just got her family back into the fold thanks to the removal of Pippa’s father, and he still arranges a marriage for her, with someone truly awful. I was on the edge of my seat while reading this and couldn’t get enough of the storyline between these two – I was constantly rooting for them and while I understood Pippa’s determination to not end up in an arrangement, I wanted to hit her because while it would’ve been arranged, it would have happened after they had been together for a period of time and not been a typical, true arrangement. I can’t wait to see what comes next from this series and who the next book is focused on, especially after some twists and bombs dropped at the end of this book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
March 26, 2025
When Pippa goes into a Lucky Kings casino to settle her father’s debt, she had plans to offer up the only money they had then run out of there as fast as possible. When Damien Bellini meets her and offers up the chance to erase half of her father’s debt if she dances, she doesn’t bat an eye. However, that one dance leads to obsession for Pippa. Damien is the last man she should be with. He can be cold and cruel and works for the Lombardi crime family. He makes her skin grow hot and lust pours out of her. The only problem? Pippa’s uncle is the leader of the Boston mob, and he has a proposition for Pippa.
When Pippa’s mob uncle demands she marry Damien so their families are tied together for business, she says no. The only problem that comes from using the word no? Her uncle still makes things happen whether she likes it or not and everything changes when Pippa receives a wedding invitation in the mail.
Wow! I listened to this story so quickly because it was so good! I love a good dark romance with mafia vibes and this hit the mark. Damien was down BAD for Pippa and I enjoyed watching him fall for her. I cried a lot during this audiobook (some good and some sad) but don’t let that deter you from listening or reading this book. Like most romance books, there is a HEA at the end. Some tropes include strangers to lovers, forced proximity, mafia, he falls first and harder, alpha male, man obsessed, rich man, fierce FMC and more. Some possible TWs: de*th, m*rder, explicit violent scenes on page, explicit s*x scenes on page, gambling addiction (father of FMC) and a love triangle involving the couple. If any of this may possibly trigger you, please take note and be careful.
Thank you to Author Charity Ferrell and Valentine PR for the ALC in exchange for an honest review!
When Pippa’s mob uncle demands she marry Damien so their families are tied together for business, she says no. The only problem that comes from using the word no? Her uncle still makes things happen whether she likes it or not and everything changes when Pippa receives a wedding invitation in the mail.
Wow! I listened to this story so quickly because it was so good! I love a good dark romance with mafia vibes and this hit the mark. Damien was down BAD for Pippa and I enjoyed watching him fall for her. I cried a lot during this audiobook (some good and some sad) but don’t let that deter you from listening or reading this book. Like most romance books, there is a HEA at the end. Some tropes include strangers to lovers, forced proximity, mafia, he falls first and harder, alpha male, man obsessed, rich man, fierce FMC and more. Some possible TWs: de*th, m*rder, explicit violent scenes on page, explicit s*x scenes on page, gambling addiction (father of FMC) and a love triangle involving the couple. If any of this may possibly trigger you, please take note and be careful.
Thank you to Author Charity Ferrell and Valentine PR for the ALC in exchange for an honest review!
June 2, 2025
First book to finish in a day in 2025. I decided to give this author a try because i was selected for an arc for the second book in the series. OMG I LOVED THIS BOOK. Pippa was a weird name when i first heard it 😭😭 SOMEONE GET ME A DAMIEN RIGHT NOWWW. Pippa’s family is a piece of shit. my heart ached at what happened to damien’s family 😖 I LOVED AMARA AND ACE even though i despiseeee of snakes!!!! now i was a bit irritated with all the fucking they did in the first half of this book like jeeeez louisssss 😭😭😭….. PIPPA PISSED ME THE HELL OFF WITH HER STUBBORNNESS AND ENDING HER AND DAMIENS RELATIONSHIP FOR HER FAT IRISH STUBBY DICK UNCLE LIKEEE I LITERALLY CRIED 🥹🥹…. BUT PIPPA AND DAMIEN BOTH WENT INSANE TOWARDS THE MIDDLE AND END LIKE HIM PRACTICALLY SOAKING HER AND HER CLOTHES IN HIS COLOGNE…. HIM BEING ON THE PLANE OR HER JUMPING OUT OF THE CAR WHILE ITS MOVING 😭😭😭 but i liked how riona came up with a plan to help both herself, pippa and damien get out of a shitty situation and get what they both wanted in the end. i can’t wait for the second book about julian and genesis 🤭🤭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2024
Thank you Charity Ferrell for this ARC
Sinful sacrifice by Charity Ferrell
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Spectacular give me 14 of them, as fast as you can.
If it’s mafia and written by Charity give it to me.
This book was everything and my GAWD Damien Bellini can have whatever he wants. We’re going to add him to the book boyfriend list.
“𝙒𝙝𝙮 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙚?” 𝘿𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙣 𝙨𝙣𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙨 𝙖𝙩 𝙏𝙤𝙣𝙮, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙖𝙭𝙚𝙙. “𝙄 𝙩𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙬𝙚’𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙, 𝙨𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙚’𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚.” 𝙃𝙚 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙨 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙞𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙭𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙨𝙝 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙤𝙣 𝙏𝙤𝙣𝙮. “𝙁𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙞𝙛 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙞𝙩, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩. 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙛 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙪. 𝙐𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙙?”
And did he stutter?! A man who demands whatever she’s asked for, she gets.
Pippa’s father is addicted to gambling, he owes so much money and the only thing he can use as payment is his daughter, Pippa. Damien who has been watching how much her father owes, makes a deal with Pippa and erases her father’s debt.
Tropes:
Touch her and ☠️
Arranged marriage
Jet plane
Second chance (it’s done right)
Forbidden
Sneaky sneaks. 🤤🤤🤤
Banter
Angst
The woods scene 🥵
M A F I A
Sinful sacrifice by Charity Ferrell
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Spectacular give me 14 of them, as fast as you can.
If it’s mafia and written by Charity give it to me.
This book was everything and my GAWD Damien Bellini can have whatever he wants. We’re going to add him to the book boyfriend list.
“𝙒𝙝𝙮 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙚?” 𝘿𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙣 𝙨𝙣𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙨 𝙖𝙩 𝙏𝙤𝙣𝙮, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙖𝙭𝙚𝙙. “𝙄 𝙩𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙬𝙚’𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙, 𝙨𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙚’𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚.” 𝙃𝙚 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙨 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙞𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙭𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙨𝙝 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙤𝙣 𝙏𝙤𝙣𝙮. “𝙁𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙞𝙛 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙞𝙩, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩. 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙛 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙪. 𝙐𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙙?”
And did he stutter?! A man who demands whatever she’s asked for, she gets.
Pippa’s father is addicted to gambling, he owes so much money and the only thing he can use as payment is his daughter, Pippa. Damien who has been watching how much her father owes, makes a deal with Pippa and erases her father’s debt.
Tropes:
Touch her and ☠️
Arranged marriage
Jet plane
Second chance (it’s done right)
Forbidden
Sneaky sneaks. 🤤🤤🤤
Banter
Angst
The woods scene 🥵
M A F I A
August 28, 2024
4.5 stars!!!
♠️♥️♣️♦️ARC REVIEW♦️♣️♥️♠️
Thank you @valentine_pr_ & @charityferrell for my ARC copy of Sinful Sacrifice!
I am OBSESSED with this book. I am obsessed with Damien, just bloody obsessed folks.
Damien being a completely unhinged mafia man, but the softest cutie to Pippa absolutely sent me swooning.
The things he did and said to her had hearts in my eyes the whole time.
Pippa is a strong, confident woman who despite being in dangerous situations, has the audacity to be sassy and make me fall in love with her lmao.
The side characters were fantastic (well the ones Damien is in cahoots with) especially cutie Julian. The twist and turns in act two had me shakin in my booooties wondering how this would end in the readers favour, and Charity did NOT disappoint.
This sweet and S P I C Y mafia romance is available in just 5 more days! (August 28th). Please read trigger warnings before reading, and sit back and enjoy the ride!
In Sinful Sacrifice you will find:
🩰ballerina FMC
🃏mafia MMC
🩰FAST burn/insta lust
🃏touch her and die
🩰romantic suspense
🃏possessive
♠️♥️♣️♦️ARC REVIEW♦️♣️♥️♠️
Thank you @valentine_pr_ & @charityferrell for my ARC copy of Sinful Sacrifice!
I am OBSESSED with this book. I am obsessed with Damien, just bloody obsessed folks.
Damien being a completely unhinged mafia man, but the softest cutie to Pippa absolutely sent me swooning.
The things he did and said to her had hearts in my eyes the whole time.
Pippa is a strong, confident woman who despite being in dangerous situations, has the audacity to be sassy and make me fall in love with her lmao.
The side characters were fantastic (well the ones Damien is in cahoots with) especially cutie Julian. The twist and turns in act two had me shakin in my booooties wondering how this would end in the readers favour, and Charity did NOT disappoint.
This sweet and S P I C Y mafia romance is available in just 5 more days! (August 28th). Please read trigger warnings before reading, and sit back and enjoy the ride!
In Sinful Sacrifice you will find:
🩰ballerina FMC
🃏mafia MMC
🩰FAST burn/insta lust
🃏touch her and die
🩰romantic suspense
🃏possessive
September 1, 2024
Charity knows how to slay these mafia romance books! I've always been intrigued by Damien and was so glad we finally got his story. I loved his possessive touch her and die vibes. Even though he's a part of the mafia world Pipa is definitely his soft spot and allows us to see a different side to his character. Pipa is force of her own with her own voice and more autonomy than typical mafia book heroines. This book gives me the spice and angst I crave especially with the star crossed lover vibes! Charity knows how to grab an audience and keep them with this steamy series!
September 14, 2025
SINFUL SACRIFICE by Charity Ferrell, Lucky Kings Book 1
A page turner romance of forbidden love that instead of a happily ever after, a sinister twist of a plot threatens to tear Damien Bellini and Pippa Elsher apart. Charity Ferrell throws fuel into the fire in SINFUL SACRIFICE creating domino effects with an astonishing conclusion.
Great world building, Wonderful characters, Page-turner, Unpredictable, Romantic, Scary, Steamy, Action-packed, Twisted, Entertaining, Happily Ever After, Tragic
A page turner romance of forbidden love that instead of a happily ever after, a sinister twist of a plot threatens to tear Damien Bellini and Pippa Elsher apart. Charity Ferrell throws fuel into the fire in SINFUL SACRIFICE creating domino effects with an astonishing conclusion.
Great world building, Wonderful characters, Page-turner, Unpredictable, Romantic, Scary, Steamy, Action-packed, Twisted, Entertaining, Happily Ever After, Tragic
August 27, 2024
I have been dying for Damien's story since he popped up so much in Gorgeous Villian and I was so happy to know that this was his story.
I knew that their story was going to painful and heart wrenching and honestly, Charity didn't disappoint. They were both put in an impossible situation and my stomach dropped so many times. And...if you've read Gorgeous Villian, then you know that the pain was coming.
What you'll get:
- Mafia romance
- He falls first (I will die on this hill)
- HOLY SPICE
I knew that their story was going to painful and heart wrenching and honestly, Charity didn't disappoint. They were both put in an impossible situation and my stomach dropped so many times. And...if you've read Gorgeous Villian, then you know that the pain was coming.
What you'll get:
- Mafia romance
- He falls first (I will die on this hill)
- HOLY SPICE
August 30, 2024
Pippa and Damian are combustible in close proximity—the spice in this book was unleashed!
Damian was deliciously possessive and heels over head for Pippa from the instant they were in one another’s orbit. Pippa was strong and steadfast in her beliefs that marriage wouldn’t be transactional for her, and if not for how possessive and all in Damian was, it may have cost them their love story.
Overall my rating falls at a 3.5 star rounded up to four stars because this book delivered a promising start to another series you’ll binge from Ferrell. I’m loaded in and greedily awaiting book 2 and what this world and these characters have coming our way!
Damian was deliciously possessive and heels over head for Pippa from the instant they were in one another’s orbit. Pippa was strong and steadfast in her beliefs that marriage wouldn’t be transactional for her, and if not for how possessive and all in Damian was, it may have cost them their love story.
Overall my rating falls at a 3.5 star rounded up to four stars because this book delivered a promising start to another series you’ll binge from Ferrell. I’m loaded in and greedily awaiting book 2 and what this world and these characters have coming our way!
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