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Scorned Fate #5
Scorned Beauty
She can never be seen on his arm in public because she’s the hired help.
Sloane Scott has a reputation.
She’s the go-to cleaner for the New York mafia.
Discretion is unspoken if not written in blood.
No sleeping with my clients is her unwritten rule, so why the hell does the arrogant boss of the De Lucci crime family play a starring role in her steamy dreams.
Dominic “Dom” De Lucci has a reputation.
He’s the scion of two prominent crime families and New York’s most eligible villain.
Sought after for alliances, he has his pick in an arranged marriage.
But no one makes his blood simmer more than the off-limits beautiful cleaner for the mob with a voice made for seduction and a body made for sin.
When their attraction sparks to explosive levels, they give in and agree to certain rules.
What they have isn’t a relationship.
No dating. No giving gifts. No drama.
And, especially, no falling in love.
Just sex exclusively with each other.
So when Dom takes another woman as his “fake” date to formal events, Sloane understands because it helps cover their affair.
And their arrangement works for a while, until the most important rule is broken.
Sloane Scott has a reputation.
She’s the go-to cleaner for the New York mafia.
Discretion is unspoken if not written in blood.
No sleeping with my clients is her unwritten rule, so why the hell does the arrogant boss of the De Lucci crime family play a starring role in her steamy dreams.
Dominic “Dom” De Lucci has a reputation.
He’s the scion of two prominent crime families and New York’s most eligible villain.
Sought after for alliances, he has his pick in an arranged marriage.
But no one makes his blood simmer more than the off-limits beautiful cleaner for the mob with a voice made for seduction and a body made for sin.
When their attraction sparks to explosive levels, they give in and agree to certain rules.
What they have isn’t a relationship.
No dating. No giving gifts. No drama.
And, especially, no falling in love.
Just sex exclusively with each other.
So when Dom takes another woman as his “fake” date to formal events, Sloane understands because it helps cover their affair.
And their arrangement works for a while, until the most important rule is broken.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2025
2832 people are currently reading
2033 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Paige
33 books1,062 followersVictoria Paige writes smart, edgy, seductive romance.
Her heroes are badass alpha males and her smart, strong-willed heroines can hold their own against a bossy hero. Her books are sexually explicit and may contain dark themes, morally ambiguous choices, and disturbing situations as she injects realism into her stories and gives them her own twist.
Victoria lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband and playful German Shepherd Dog, Loki.
Find her at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoriapaig...
Twitter: @vpaigebooks
Join my newsletter for new release info, extended epilogues, giveaways and other freebies: https://www.subscribepage.com/victori...
Her heroes are badass alpha males and her smart, strong-willed heroines can hold their own against a bossy hero. Her books are sexually explicit and may contain dark themes, morally ambiguous choices, and disturbing situations as she injects realism into her stories and gives them her own twist.
Victoria lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband and playful German Shepherd Dog, Loki.
Find her at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoriapaig...
Twitter: @vpaigebooks
Join my newsletter for new release info, extended epilogues, giveaways and other freebies: https://www.subscribepage.com/victori...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 226 reviews
not-for-me
September 28, 2025Does anyone have safety deets? Apparently this is a second chance, so I'm skeptical about it already.
Also, it says there's a grovel—did he really go through with that? Or was it just a barely there apology (if you can even call it that), like, what happened in book 2? 🙃
Also, it says there's a grovel—did he really go through with that? Or was it just a barely there apology (if you can even call it that), like, what happened in book 2? 🙃
October 22, 2025
Something tragic happens and he’s not there for her but it’s more than that. He breaks her heart to make a point. I know he believes things that aren’t correct but then I know people are different and needs and wants are vastly different but I would never forgive him and literally hate him for the rest of my life.
Also, we don’t actually see anything we’re told how they feel and how they belong together. I wish their emotions and relationship was more of a focus. This book felt like it was part of a spin off and every other page we were told about other couples in the story and how they met and whatever tragedy they suffered. A lot of this happens throughout. It’s not their book! It’s a lot. A lot that should have been cut. I’m not reading their story. That was very frustrating.
Also, we don’t actually see anything we’re told how they feel and how they belong together. I wish their emotions and relationship was more of a focus. This book felt like it was part of a spin off and every other page we were told about other couples in the story and how they met and whatever tragedy they suffered. A lot of this happens throughout. It’s not their book! It’s a lot. A lot that should have been cut. I’m not reading their story. That was very frustrating.
dnf
October 2, 2025DNF @ 72%
Hated it when I had to dnf a book after the 50% mark but this book, ugh, the angst was amazing but the follow up was so bad, I almost cried over the missed opportunity to make it even more angsty!
(Huge spoilers ahead)
I hated the way Sloane’s situation was handled. She literally saw her brother died while fully aware she miscarried her baby and then not knowing what’s going to happen to her but when she met Dom again, she was back to her old self and I feel like her grieving was only told in passing or very fleetingly. I wanted more coldness! I wanted more aloofness from her. Mind you, besides all the horrible things I mentioned earlier, Dom also deserted her when she needed him the most, called her a rat, a trash and someone beneath him! The fact that I was heartbroken more for Sloane and not vice versa was so annoying!
Hated it when I had to dnf a book after the 50% mark but this book, ugh, the angst was amazing but the follow up was so bad, I almost cried over the missed opportunity to make it even more angsty!
(Huge spoilers ahead)
I hated the way Sloane’s situation was handled. She literally saw her brother died while fully aware she miscarried her baby and then not knowing what’s going to happen to her but when she met Dom again, she was back to her old self and I feel like her grieving was only told in passing or very fleetingly. I wanted more coldness! I wanted more aloofness from her. Mind you, besides all the horrible things I mentioned earlier, Dom also deserted her when she needed him the most, called her a rat, a trash and someone beneath him! The fact that I was heartbroken more for Sloane and not vice versa was so annoying!
October 11, 2025
I didn’t feel the grovel because we skipped over the moments where they fell in love. I didn’t feel their love for each other and I’m sad because this could have been amazing!!!
October 6, 2025
Sloane and Dom
If you haven’t read the previous books in this series, you might get a little lost with all the different characters from past books who make an appearance.
This starts as a “friends with benefits” dynamic with Dom having the upper hand in just about everything. There’s very little benefit for Sloane other than a physical relationship and she could get that from anyone. Sloane has seriously low self esteem and is very sensitive to being seen as trash. So I’ll never understand why she agreed to being Dom’s side piece. He hides her from his family. He goes for weeks without contacting her. He appears in public events with other women. But gets mad when she isn’t available whenever he wants.
They don’t really communicate and when he thinks she betrayed him, rather than talk to her, he dumps all his issues on her, calls her names and treats her like trash.
Dom’s groveling when he realizes the truth feels manipulative. I’m glad Sloane found her spine and demanded to be treated better. I just didn’t feel that these two had any real chemistry. The plot is a little disappointing.
If you haven’t read the previous books in this series, you might get a little lost with all the different characters from past books who make an appearance.
This starts as a “friends with benefits” dynamic with Dom having the upper hand in just about everything. There’s very little benefit for Sloane other than a physical relationship and she could get that from anyone. Sloane has seriously low self esteem and is very sensitive to being seen as trash. So I’ll never understand why she agreed to being Dom’s side piece. He hides her from his family. He goes for weeks without contacting her. He appears in public events with other women. But gets mad when she isn’t available whenever he wants.
They don’t really communicate and when he thinks she betrayed him, rather than talk to her, he dumps all his issues on her, calls her names and treats her like trash.
Dom’s groveling when he realizes the truth feels manipulative. I’m glad Sloane found her spine and demanded to be treated better. I just didn’t feel that these two had any real chemistry. The plot is a little disappointing.
January 14, 2026
So I had read this book to 75%, got bored and put it down, then picked it back up about a week later and forgot the whole plot and characters. Had to read the blurb to jolt my brain into remembering what the heck this story was about, so that’s not good! I remember that the h’s juvenile actions got on my nerves.
There was a nice, angsty betrayal and then it fell flat! Lots of telling instead of showing. I never really felt the chemistry other than being told they were attracted to each other. After the betrayal was sort of glossed over I lost interest (obviously) and then I didn’t really care how the story ended, so I mostly skimmed to the end.
Not terrible, not great. 2.5 stars for lack of follow-through.
There was a nice, angsty betrayal and then it fell flat! Lots of telling instead of showing. I never really felt the chemistry other than being told they were attracted to each other. After the betrayal was sort of glossed over I lost interest (obviously) and then I didn’t really care how the story ended, so I mostly skimmed to the end.
Not terrible, not great. 2.5 stars for lack of follow-through.
September 25, 2025
4.5 rounded up
Sloane has never wanted to get involved long term, so relationships are off the table. Her and the mafia ties her brother brought to her door have kept her busy enough, just to barely keep her head afloat. When Dom offers her a no-strings attached relationship outside of the mafia's prying eyes, she can't help but to accept the free fun and low-stress agreement. Until it doesn't feel so fun anymore, and things start to get deadly.
*****
Note: This is the second book I've read in the series, despite it being the fifth overall, and I did mildly forget that these books are all along a similar timeline. I would absolutely recommend starting with book one as otherwise there will be moments that seem to move rapidly, and other moments with info dumps that appear to come out of nowhere due to that.
That being said, I could not wait for Sloane's book after reading the previous novel in this series. She's dry and closed off and purposefully dresses to hide how beautiful she is. Getting to peel back the layers and who she is at her heart, and why she hides herself and her feelings away made so much sense and brought a lot of depth to her character.
Dom being more than just a playboy and mouthpiece was fantastic. Having him explore developing feelings, possessiveness and dealing with being a peace keeper of the family despite his position as a made man really brought him more to the surface.
I loved seeing how hard he messed up, how it destroyed Sloane, and the work he had to do to slowly win her back. I'm a sucker for leads that suffer and I wanted more of it on the page, but there was a good balance between angst, betrayal and lost trust, and the motivation to find peace together again. The author really did both of these leads well, and I'm looking forward to Lucy's novel next!
*****
Thank you to The Author Agency for the advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sloane has never wanted to get involved long term, so relationships are off the table. Her and the mafia ties her brother brought to her door have kept her busy enough, just to barely keep her head afloat. When Dom offers her a no-strings attached relationship outside of the mafia's prying eyes, she can't help but to accept the free fun and low-stress agreement. Until it doesn't feel so fun anymore, and things start to get deadly.
*****
Note: This is the second book I've read in the series, despite it being the fifth overall, and I did mildly forget that these books are all along a similar timeline. I would absolutely recommend starting with book one as otherwise there will be moments that seem to move rapidly, and other moments with info dumps that appear to come out of nowhere due to that.
That being said, I could not wait for Sloane's book after reading the previous novel in this series. She's dry and closed off and purposefully dresses to hide how beautiful she is. Getting to peel back the layers and who she is at her heart, and why she hides herself and her feelings away made so much sense and brought a lot of depth to her character.
Dom being more than just a playboy and mouthpiece was fantastic. Having him explore developing feelings, possessiveness and dealing with being a peace keeper of the family despite his position as a made man really brought him more to the surface.
I loved seeing how hard he messed up, how it destroyed Sloane, and the work he had to do to slowly win her back. I'm a sucker for leads that suffer and I wanted more of it on the page, but there was a good balance between angst, betrayal and lost trust, and the motivation to find peace together again. The author really did both of these leads well, and I'm looking forward to Lucy's novel next!
*****
Thank you to The Author Agency for the advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 30, 2025
This “mafia romance” had way too much “mafia” and way too little “romance”. It also had zero grovel for a massive betrayal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2025
I like her books so much
But she needs to make them shorter , i mean i felt so bored in a middle of the book
Otherwise i like it so much
But she needs to make them shorter , i mean i felt so bored in a middle of the book
Otherwise i like it so much
October 2, 2025
Dom was awful…
I totally despise Dom for the way he treated Sloane. She ended up forgiving him but he was a total zero for over half of the book.
Sloane had self esteem issues due to the woman with the emerald necklace, who ended up appearing towards the end of the book. That woman was married to a really evil man, and she was just as bad…
Well written but Dom’s character took off stars in my opinion. That’s just me.
I did enjoy this series. I think the story about Luca and Natalya was my favorite, but overall, this was a really good series.
KU read, highly recommend the series.
I totally despise Dom for the way he treated Sloane. She ended up forgiving him but he was a total zero for over half of the book.
Sloane had self esteem issues due to the woman with the emerald necklace, who ended up appearing towards the end of the book. That woman was married to a really evil man, and she was just as bad…
Well written but Dom’s character took off stars in my opinion. That’s just me.
I did enjoy this series. I think the story about Luca and Natalya was my favorite, but overall, this was a really good series.
KU read, highly recommend the series.
September 7, 2025
My first ARC for September and honestly, it is my most anticipated one. I was swooned by Bianca and Sandro's love story and I thought I couldn't be more charmed. Then there comes Sloane and Dom: a fiery match between from two polar opposite worlds. You'll get your heart ripped open and stitched back together & I thank Victoria Paige for that. I guess I'm in the mood for that angst and pain; then enjoying all the grovel and 'I'll do anything to redeem myself' behavior.
Though come from two different backgrounds, Sloane and Dom's lives are intertwined with each other. Their agendas often cross paths mainly because Sloane participates in Dom's world by becoming the 'cleaner'. Throughout those times, it's left to little imagination how curiosity that soon becomes attraction sparks between the two.
We have dual POVs coming from both main characters. I enjoy Sloane's because the way she carries herself is full of confidence and thoughts. She knows how her past treats her but she doesn't let it control her life. Selfless, direct, knows her boundaries, but is still willing to act by the heart. It's giving solid FMC behavior. On the other hand, I enjoy Dom's because.. well, I love to see him SUFFER! Haha.. in all seriousness, I like a glimpse of him ruling his own agenda but the moment misunderstanding sneaks its way in and how he immediately acts on it and then regrets it after? Pure. Satisfaction. Especially when he grovels so damn hard-- yes, it's an epic grovel! And I love how Sloane doesn't make it easy; my girl is trying to cope, put her life together, and let Dom.. be Dom.
It's very amusing to see him getting overbearing like getting all panic when someone puts a tracker on her or a simple 'who made you cry?' outburst. And can we please have Dom to hold a seminar on how to care for a woman during her period? Clearly he makes the bare minimum a high standard for the men in our lives.
The spice is unbeatable, the conflict is twisted. I'd say the author has outdone herself with this book. If you love a mafia romance sprinkled with tropes like epic grovel, polar opposite worlds, touch-her-and-I'll-end-you, secretive no-strings-attached, stalkerish behavior and pr!mal play, then this is a book you'll enjoy.
Though come from two different backgrounds, Sloane and Dom's lives are intertwined with each other. Their agendas often cross paths mainly because Sloane participates in Dom's world by becoming the 'cleaner'. Throughout those times, it's left to little imagination how curiosity that soon becomes attraction sparks between the two.
We have dual POVs coming from both main characters. I enjoy Sloane's because the way she carries herself is full of confidence and thoughts. She knows how her past treats her but she doesn't let it control her life. Selfless, direct, knows her boundaries, but is still willing to act by the heart. It's giving solid FMC behavior. On the other hand, I enjoy Dom's because.. well, I love to see him SUFFER! Haha.. in all seriousness, I like a glimpse of him ruling his own agenda but the moment misunderstanding sneaks its way in and how he immediately acts on it and then regrets it after? Pure. Satisfaction. Especially when he grovels so damn hard-- yes, it's an epic grovel! And I love how Sloane doesn't make it easy; my girl is trying to cope, put her life together, and let Dom.. be Dom.
It's very amusing to see him getting overbearing like getting all panic when someone puts a tracker on her or a simple 'who made you cry?' outburst. And can we please have Dom to hold a seminar on how to care for a woman during her period? Clearly he makes the bare minimum a high standard for the men in our lives.
The spice is unbeatable, the conflict is twisted. I'd say the author has outdone herself with this book. If you love a mafia romance sprinkled with tropes like epic grovel, polar opposite worlds, touch-her-and-I'll-end-you, secretive no-strings-attached, stalkerish behavior and pr!mal play, then this is a book you'll enjoy.
December 2, 2025
“Scorned Beauty” is the story of Sloane and Dom.
The heroine is training to be a nurse; but forced to work as a cleaner to help her brother who is into shady activities. The hero is one of her clients.
They begin a sexual relationship, things take a turn when the hero assumes the worst of her and the heroine suffers two losses, and their reconciliation and drama forms the second half of the story.
It was ok, I skimmed it.
Swe
2/5
The heroine is training to be a nurse; but forced to work as a cleaner to help her brother who is into shady activities. The hero is one of her clients.
They begin a sexual relationship, things take a turn when the hero assumes the worst of her and the heroine suffers two losses, and their reconciliation and drama forms the second half of the story.
It was ok, I skimmed it.
Swe
2/5
October 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
This is the fifth book in the Scorned Fate series. This can be read as a standalone, but there are some spoilers for previous books.
I have enjoyed this entire series and loved Dom and Sloane.
Sloane did not have it easy. She went through so much in the book, and at times, I was so mad at Dom. He definitely made some mistakes that made things worse. Sloane was definitely strong and determined, while Dom was protective and possessive.
I loved their chemistry and the spice.
🖤wealth/power imbalance
💜secret no-strings-attached affair
🖤epic grovel
💜mafia romance
🖤touch her and ☠️
💜stalker
🖤jealous/possessive hero
Thank you, Victoria Paige and The Author Agency for the ARC.
This is the fifth book in the Scorned Fate series. This can be read as a standalone, but there are some spoilers for previous books.
I have enjoyed this entire series and loved Dom and Sloane.
Sloane did not have it easy. She went through so much in the book, and at times, I was so mad at Dom. He definitely made some mistakes that made things worse. Sloane was definitely strong and determined, while Dom was protective and possessive.
I loved their chemistry and the spice.
🖤wealth/power imbalance
💜secret no-strings-attached affair
🖤epic grovel
💜mafia romance
🖤touch her and ☠️
💜stalker
🖤jealous/possessive hero
Thank you, Victoria Paige and The Author Agency for the ARC.
October 6, 2025
1 star for the MMC. I think she was the only likeable aspect of this book.
Dominic was pretty basic with nothing redeeming him about him.
The sudden jump in scenes made no sense and I had to read it again. It was difficult for me to believe that the characters were in love at all.
Dominic was pretty basic with nothing redeeming him about him.
The sudden jump in scenes made no sense and I had to read it again. It was difficult for me to believe that the characters were in love at all.
September 25, 2025
Having read all of the interconnected books in the Scorned Fate series and loved each one, this book was no different.
We had glimpses of Dom, his crazy persona and unhinged demeanor throughout the series and his entire character in this book did not disappoint!
Right from the beginning, I absolutely adored the banter between Dom and Sloane and their situationship was ultimately going to lead to more.
After the twists and turns of the story, I was left rooting for Dom to get his girl.
The chemistry between these two is brilliant as they are both firecrackers of characters. I have laughed out loud, cried and throughly enjoyed this absolute stormer of a book.
Thank you for the opportunity to read the ARC for this book 💜
Now to decided which MMC is my favourite 🫣🤤😋
We had glimpses of Dom, his crazy persona and unhinged demeanor throughout the series and his entire character in this book did not disappoint!
Right from the beginning, I absolutely adored the banter between Dom and Sloane and their situationship was ultimately going to lead to more.
After the twists and turns of the story, I was left rooting for Dom to get his girl.
The chemistry between these two is brilliant as they are both firecrackers of characters. I have laughed out loud, cried and throughly enjoyed this absolute stormer of a book.
Thank you for the opportunity to read the ARC for this book 💜
Now to decided which MMC is my favourite 🫣🤤😋
September 8, 2025
Dom is just as amazing and steamy as his Uncle Luca 🥵🥵
I am sad to say good bye to this brilliant series, but I’m glad they will be seen in the spin off series.
Sloane and Dom were absolutely fantastic. I loved Dom’s drama queen ways and Sloane fierce bad a$$ ways.
Amazing all around series!!
Spicy level maybe a pepper and half.
I am sad to say good bye to this brilliant series, but I’m glad they will be seen in the spin off series.
Sloane and Dom were absolutely fantastic. I loved Dom’s drama queen ways and Sloane fierce bad a$$ ways.
Amazing all around series!!
Spicy level maybe a pepper and half.
October 15, 2025
It felt a bit rushed at times. For example, Dom and Sloane's relationship lasts 5 months, and she says that it is bothering her to be his secret, but we don't see much of how it affects her.
I did enjoyed it though, and I will probably read another book by the author (I am kind of guessing that the next one with be Lucy's story with Kirill, it sounds promising).
I did enjoyed it though, and I will probably read another book by the author (I am kind of guessing that the next one with be Lucy's story with Kirill, it sounds promising).
Read
December 27, 2025This story had a lot going on and seemed to drag on.
I was absolutely lost as far as who was who with what logistics and rivalry- that is my fault starting with book 5.
I was absolutely lost as far as who was who with what logistics and rivalry- that is my fault starting with book 5.
September 29, 2025
Scorned Beauty by Victoria Paige
⚠️ Warning: DOM. That’s it. That’s the warning.
I will not say much, but you guys are not ready for Dom.
I was peacefully reading at 1AM, and this man nearly made me throw my Kindle across the room. 🫠🤌
This is not your average possessive alpha. No, no.
This man is the weaponized version of the “you’re mine” trope.
He’s brutal. He’s obsessed. And yes, he’s everything. 😮💨
🔪 Revenge is personal.
❤️🔥 Obsession is dangerous.
⚠️ Warning: DOM. That’s it. That’s the warning.
I will not say much, but you guys are not ready for Dom.
I was peacefully reading at 1AM, and this man nearly made me throw my Kindle across the room. 🫠🤌
This is not your average possessive alpha. No, no.
This man is the weaponized version of the “you’re mine” trope.
He’s brutal. He’s obsessed. And yes, he’s everything. 😮💨
🔪 Revenge is personal.
❤️🔥 Obsession is dangerous.
September 29, 2025
Scorned Beauty by Victoria Paige is the fifth installment in the Scorned Fate series, and it delivers a dark, seductive mafia romance that’s equal parts danger and desire. The story follows Sloane Scott, a fiercely independent cleaner for the New York mafia, and Dominic “Dom” De Lucci, the powerful heir to two crime families. Bound by an arrangement that forbids love, gifts, and drama, their relationship is built on secrecy and explosive chemistry. But when the most important rule is broken, everything they’ve tried to keep hidden threatens to unravel.
From the moment I started reading, I was pulled into the gritty, high-stakes world the author creates. Sloane is a standout heroine - strong, smart, and unapologetically herself. Her voice is sharp, her boundaries firm, and her emotional depth makes her more than just a “tough girl.” Dom, on the other hand, is the perfect morally gray hero: dangerous, possessive, and unexpectedly tender. Their dynamic is intense and addictive, with sizzling tension and emotional vulnerability woven throughout.
I especially loved the way the author handled the forbidden romance trope. The rules they set - no dating, no gifts, no falling in love - only made their emotional unraveling more compelling. The mafia backdrop adds layers of suspense and intrigue, and the side characters enrich the story without distracting from the central romance.
That said, there was so much happening in the story that I felt a few plot threads could have been more smoothly developed and better fleshed out. At times, the pacing felt slightly rushed, especially during emotionally pivotal moments. Personally, I would’ve loved to see more of the tender, gradual gestures from Dom during his redemption arc, rather than Sloane's one emotional epiphany. A slower emotional build-up would have added more depth and made the resolution feel even more satisfying.
Overall, Scorned Beauty is a steamy, emotionally charged romance that blends danger, desire, and heartbreak with finesse. If you love mafia romances with strong heroines and possessive anti-heroes, this one’s a must-read.
From the moment I started reading, I was pulled into the gritty, high-stakes world the author creates. Sloane is a standout heroine - strong, smart, and unapologetically herself. Her voice is sharp, her boundaries firm, and her emotional depth makes her more than just a “tough girl.” Dom, on the other hand, is the perfect morally gray hero: dangerous, possessive, and unexpectedly tender. Their dynamic is intense and addictive, with sizzling tension and emotional vulnerability woven throughout.
I especially loved the way the author handled the forbidden romance trope. The rules they set - no dating, no gifts, no falling in love - only made their emotional unraveling more compelling. The mafia backdrop adds layers of suspense and intrigue, and the side characters enrich the story without distracting from the central romance.
That said, there was so much happening in the story that I felt a few plot threads could have been more smoothly developed and better fleshed out. At times, the pacing felt slightly rushed, especially during emotionally pivotal moments. Personally, I would’ve loved to see more of the tender, gradual gestures from Dom during his redemption arc, rather than Sloane's one emotional epiphany. A slower emotional build-up would have added more depth and made the resolution feel even more satisfying.
Overall, Scorned Beauty is a steamy, emotionally charged romance that blends danger, desire, and heartbreak with finesse. If you love mafia romances with strong heroines and possessive anti-heroes, this one’s a must-read.
September 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//🌶️🌶️🌶️
Victoria nailed it on the head with this one!Luca and Natalya’s book was my favorite until Dominic MF’n De Lucci said “hold my beer”. I’ve always wondered what Dom’s character would be like when we finally get his book because in the previous books he was the calm, cool, and collected mob boss. He’s quiet and mysterious but also exudes power in every room he enters. Finally getting to see his possessive and obsessive side is the hottest thing🥵😮💨 This man was set on setting the world on fire when it came to the people he loves and when it came to Sloane, he unapologetically eliminated every men who hurt her.😮💨👏🏽
Sloane Scott is full of fire and sass! She’s a beautiful girl who hides behind her pale make up and hideous overalls so she doesn’t attract unwanted attention. She cleans for the crime families while she’s finishing up nursing school. Working for the mob is as dangerous as it sounds so she learned to keep her head down and mind her own business when it comes to her job. Like always she succeeded at that until it stopped working and the Russian Bratva started coming for her. She went through so much and every job became harder and more dangerous for her. She wanted out but didn’t know how.
Enters Dominic motherf*cken De Lucci. Boss of the De Lucci crime family. He’s as powerful as they come.The chemistry between these two is undeniable. it was sizzling since the first night Sloane hit him with a metal pipe on the head😂i loved their little bickering and banter. They were both so stubborn in their own ways and because there was that wealth imbalance and social status difference it made it impossible for them to give in to their attraction for each other. However, when they overcame all the obstacles that were thrown their way, they were unstoppable together.
Victoria nailed it on the head with this one!Luca and Natalya’s book was my favorite until Dominic MF’n De Lucci said “hold my beer”. I’ve always wondered what Dom’s character would be like when we finally get his book because in the previous books he was the calm, cool, and collected mob boss. He’s quiet and mysterious but also exudes power in every room he enters. Finally getting to see his possessive and obsessive side is the hottest thing🥵😮💨 This man was set on setting the world on fire when it came to the people he loves and when it came to Sloane, he unapologetically eliminated every men who hurt her.😮💨👏🏽
Sloane Scott is full of fire and sass! She’s a beautiful girl who hides behind her pale make up and hideous overalls so she doesn’t attract unwanted attention. She cleans for the crime families while she’s finishing up nursing school. Working for the mob is as dangerous as it sounds so she learned to keep her head down and mind her own business when it comes to her job. Like always she succeeded at that until it stopped working and the Russian Bratva started coming for her. She went through so much and every job became harder and more dangerous for her. She wanted out but didn’t know how.
Enters Dominic motherf*cken De Lucci. Boss of the De Lucci crime family. He’s as powerful as they come.The chemistry between these two is undeniable. it was sizzling since the first night Sloane hit him with a metal pipe on the head😂i loved their little bickering and banter. They were both so stubborn in their own ways and because there was that wealth imbalance and social status difference it made it impossible for them to give in to their attraction for each other. However, when they overcame all the obstacles that were thrown their way, they were unstoppable together.
September 15, 2025
Scorned Beauty is book #5 in the Scorned Fate series by @victoriapaigebooks and it was definitely my favorite! This couple had such great chemistry and were written so prefectly! It follows the story of Sloane Scott and Dominic “Dom” De Lucci. He is a Don in the mafia, she is the cleaning lady to the underworld. We have seen these two in the previous books and now they finally get to discover the attraction that has been there all along. They embark on a No dating-No giving gifts-No drama and definitely no falling in love, just benefits and we know how that usually turns out!
These two are from complete opposite lives. She struggles to get by while he is a billionaire. She is a strong woman and confident woman who endures much through this story. He is a strong alpha who learns to grovel to his knees. The emotion written in these pages is beautiful. The things they go through at times are heartbreaking and watching them both put the pieces of themselves and their love back together was so good! And their chemistry and spice, HOT HOT! 🔥
It was also so good to see all our friends from the previous books written in at the perfect moments.
This was a GREAT end to the series. Victoria, you just write so beautifully and put so much thought into every situation. I can’t wait for the spinoff of this series and can I please hope the first couple will have the initials K and L?????😍
Rate: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 4/5🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🔥Forbidden Romance
🩶Touch Her And Die
🖤Secret Friends With Benefits
🩶Mafia
💜Epic grovel
🖤Touch-her-and-☠️
🩶Mental Health Rep
**Thank you Victoria Paige and The Author Agency for my ARC🖤
These two are from complete opposite lives. She struggles to get by while he is a billionaire. She is a strong woman and confident woman who endures much through this story. He is a strong alpha who learns to grovel to his knees. The emotion written in these pages is beautiful. The things they go through at times are heartbreaking and watching them both put the pieces of themselves and their love back together was so good! And their chemistry and spice, HOT HOT! 🔥
It was also so good to see all our friends from the previous books written in at the perfect moments.
This was a GREAT end to the series. Victoria, you just write so beautifully and put so much thought into every situation. I can’t wait for the spinoff of this series and can I please hope the first couple will have the initials K and L?????😍
Rate: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 4/5🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🔥Forbidden Romance
🩶Touch Her And Die
🖤Secret Friends With Benefits
🩶Mafia
💜Epic grovel
🖤Touch-her-and-☠️
🩶Mental Health Rep
**Thank you Victoria Paige and The Author Agency for my ARC🖤
September 27, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨
⭐️ 3.5/5 (rounded up to 4)
📅 September 26, 2025
❤️ Mafia Romance
❤️ Secret Relationship
❤️ Forbidden Love
❤️ Arranged Marriage Pressure
❤️ Strong Heroine Who Stands Her Ground
❤️ Jealous/Protective Hero
Poor Sloane… it’s hard enough with her family constantly dragging her down, and then Dom, this man! Oooh he knows exactly how to turn on the moves 😏 but also… sir, you’re supposed to marry someone from the Bratva, why even start something with Sloane?! MEN 🤦🏻♀️
The first half had me living. The tension, the jealousy, the banter—it was perfection. Sloane telling Dom her time was as valuable as his and basically saying “no respect, no sex”? Iconic 🙌🏻. And then we get sweet Dom drawing her a bath and bringing her a heating pad for her cramps?? Ugh, my heart. Also, Ginger being a total chaos orange cat cracked me up, and that creepy neighbor had me side-eyeing every page. 👀
I liked how the book jumped around to different seasons too, it made their relationship feel bigger than just one stretch of time. Plus all the side drama with Luca/Natalya and Lucy’s lawyer friend? Wild.
But… here’s where it lost me. The second half just didn’t land. We skipped over some major emotional beats, Dom never really GROVELS (and he needed to, badly), and Sloane’s heartbreak was wrapped up way too quickly. One minute she’s spiraling, the next Dom strolls back in and suddenly it’s fine? Nah. I wanted more payoff.
Overall: amazing tension, great characters, mafia drama galore, but the ending left me wanting. Still, if you’re into forbidden mafia romance with all the jealousy and steam, it’s worth the ride. Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC!
⭐️ 3.5/5 (rounded up to 4)
📅 September 26, 2025
❤️ Mafia Romance
❤️ Secret Relationship
❤️ Forbidden Love
❤️ Arranged Marriage Pressure
❤️ Strong Heroine Who Stands Her Ground
❤️ Jealous/Protective Hero
Poor Sloane… it’s hard enough with her family constantly dragging her down, and then Dom, this man! Oooh he knows exactly how to turn on the moves 😏 but also… sir, you’re supposed to marry someone from the Bratva, why even start something with Sloane?! MEN 🤦🏻♀️
The first half had me living. The tension, the jealousy, the banter—it was perfection. Sloane telling Dom her time was as valuable as his and basically saying “no respect, no sex”? Iconic 🙌🏻. And then we get sweet Dom drawing her a bath and bringing her a heating pad for her cramps?? Ugh, my heart. Also, Ginger being a total chaos orange cat cracked me up, and that creepy neighbor had me side-eyeing every page. 👀
I liked how the book jumped around to different seasons too, it made their relationship feel bigger than just one stretch of time. Plus all the side drama with Luca/Natalya and Lucy’s lawyer friend? Wild.
But… here’s where it lost me. The second half just didn’t land. We skipped over some major emotional beats, Dom never really GROVELS (and he needed to, badly), and Sloane’s heartbreak was wrapped up way too quickly. One minute she’s spiraling, the next Dom strolls back in and suddenly it’s fine? Nah. I wanted more payoff.
Overall: amazing tension, great characters, mafia drama galore, but the ending left me wanting. Still, if you’re into forbidden mafia romance with all the jealousy and steam, it’s worth the ride. Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC!
September 25, 2025
I liked this a lot. The way these characters interacted and changed throughout the book was well written and thought out.
Dom was perfect. Was he the biggest ass? Yes, but he owned up to it, groveled and made up in my opinion. He was head over heels for his woman and wasn’t about to stand for a lifetime without her. Seeing him wreak vengeance upon those that damaged Sloane was amazing, and my evil streak was satisfied. It also didn’t hurt that his wallet was thicker than a snicker lol.
And Sloane, what a bad bitch with feelings. She was soft, had a strong moral compass and was loyal to a fault. She stood her ground when needed and was honest about her feelings even when it was scary. I liked that she didn’t fold immediately and made him work for it, earn her back. She deserved all her dreams and Dom was ready to help her get them.
That epilogue was scrumptious and I wouldn’t mind and extra novella or something about the couples years in the future living their happy lives.
I do have to say that some of the side characters were annoying as hell. I couldn’t stand his family or that matchmaker woman. Definitely took away from the story even if they had to be part of the plot.
Thank you, TAA and Victoria, for this e-arc!
Quotes:
I'm in love with you. So hopelessly in love with you, I can't imagine a world where you're not mine.
Because, baby, I'm totally yours. Heart, body, and fucking soul, I'm yours.
Dom was perfect. Was he the biggest ass? Yes, but he owned up to it, groveled and made up in my opinion. He was head over heels for his woman and wasn’t about to stand for a lifetime without her. Seeing him wreak vengeance upon those that damaged Sloane was amazing, and my evil streak was satisfied. It also didn’t hurt that his wallet was thicker than a snicker lol.
And Sloane, what a bad bitch with feelings. She was soft, had a strong moral compass and was loyal to a fault. She stood her ground when needed and was honest about her feelings even when it was scary. I liked that she didn’t fold immediately and made him work for it, earn her back. She deserved all her dreams and Dom was ready to help her get them.
That epilogue was scrumptious and I wouldn’t mind and extra novella or something about the couples years in the future living their happy lives.
I do have to say that some of the side characters were annoying as hell. I couldn’t stand his family or that matchmaker woman. Definitely took away from the story even if they had to be part of the plot.
Thank you, TAA and Victoria, for this e-arc!
Quotes:
I'm in love with you. So hopelessly in love with you, I can't imagine a world where you're not mine.
Because, baby, I'm totally yours. Heart, body, and fucking soul, I'm yours.
September 18, 2025
Scorned Beauty by Victoria Paige is the fifth book in the Scorned Fate series, and I’ve already added the previews books to my TBR!
Sloane is a mob cleaner and aspiring nurse who doesn’t have time for games—or relationships. So when Dom De Lucci, the Don of the De Lucci crime family, proposes a no-strings, no-emotions arrangement, she’s all in.
I loved this book from start to finish! The banter between Dom and Sloane was perfection, and the supporting characters brought so much life and energy to the story. The dual POVs made it even better—I loved being inside both of their heads. The danger, the mystery, the family drama—it all kept me hooked and flipping pages. And the spice? The chemistry? Incredible. The storyline? Absolutely wild—in the best possible way.
Sloane is strong, determined, and doesn’t take crap from anyone. She’s fiercely independent and not afraid to defend herself… maybe a little too well (sorry, Dom 😅). Watching Dom fight to win her back was chef’s kiss, and I loved that she didn’t make it easy for him. Their connection is full of tension, passion, and raw emotion—they’re absolutely perfect together.
This was such a fun, intense, and sexy read. Highly recommend!
Thank you to Victoria Paige and The Author Agency for the ARC! 💜
Sloane is a mob cleaner and aspiring nurse who doesn’t have time for games—or relationships. So when Dom De Lucci, the Don of the De Lucci crime family, proposes a no-strings, no-emotions arrangement, she’s all in.
I loved this book from start to finish! The banter between Dom and Sloane was perfection, and the supporting characters brought so much life and energy to the story. The dual POVs made it even better—I loved being inside both of their heads. The danger, the mystery, the family drama—it all kept me hooked and flipping pages. And the spice? The chemistry? Incredible. The storyline? Absolutely wild—in the best possible way.
Sloane is strong, determined, and doesn’t take crap from anyone. She’s fiercely independent and not afraid to defend herself… maybe a little too well (sorry, Dom 😅). Watching Dom fight to win her back was chef’s kiss, and I loved that she didn’t make it easy for him. Their connection is full of tension, passion, and raw emotion—they’re absolutely perfect together.
This was such a fun, intense, and sexy read. Highly recommend!
Thank you to Victoria Paige and The Author Agency for the ARC! 💜
September 9, 2025
This is a rollercoaster of a ride! Sloane and Dom may not THINK they want entanglements. Well, one thinks that. The other is trying to figure themself out. And when it starts to sting too much, one ends it (for good reason), while the other doesn’t really accept that this is the end. But then lies are told, things are deliberately shown in the wrong light, and some of the cruelest words ever uttered flay a heart. And wow, did mine break along with it!
Dom is right, though. The De Lucci curse is alive in him. As is the Moretti penchant for messing up big time before making the effort. The grovel is impressive, and I mean that in the best way. Dom does everything he can to make Sloane feel like she’s the worthiest person on the planet, even if she doesn’t choose him in the end. But was there ever another option?
Even with the danger and the mystery and the family drama, Sloane and Dom find their way. They both prove that they’re more than worthy and that they’re the perfect match. So now I wait to see who Luca Junior gets to wrap around her finger. I have an idea, but I still wonder…..
Dom is right, though. The De Lucci curse is alive in him. As is the Moretti penchant for messing up big time before making the effort. The grovel is impressive, and I mean that in the best way. Dom does everything he can to make Sloane feel like she’s the worthiest person on the planet, even if she doesn’t choose him in the end. But was there ever another option?
Even with the danger and the mystery and the family drama, Sloane and Dom find their way. They both prove that they’re more than worthy and that they’re the perfect match. So now I wait to see who Luca Junior gets to wrap around her finger. I have an idea, but I still wonder…..
September 15, 2025
Dom and Sloane’s story had me completely hooked. The banter, the grovelling, the intensity, and of course, the spice—it was everything I hoped for and more (actually, I wanted even more!). Dom is such a perfect mix of hot, dramatic, and hilarious—I laughed so much at his antics, but I also needed breathers from how spicyyy hot things got!
It’s bittersweet that this is the end of the series, but what a way to wrap it up. The ending felt satisfying and true to the characters, while also leaving me excited for what’s to come. That epilogue? Let’s just say it reminded me of a certain feral Luca moment that had me grinning so hard.
If you haven’t started this series yet, I 100% recommend it. Victoria knows how to write romance that’s passionate, dramatic, and addictive—you’ll keep wanting more and more. I’m definitely looking forward to the spin-off and more Luca!
It’s bittersweet that this is the end of the series, but what a way to wrap it up. The ending felt satisfying and true to the characters, while also leaving me excited for what’s to come. That epilogue? Let’s just say it reminded me of a certain feral Luca moment that had me grinning so hard.
If you haven’t started this series yet, I 100% recommend it. Victoria knows how to write romance that’s passionate, dramatic, and addictive—you’ll keep wanting more and more. I’m definitely looking forward to the spin-off and more Luca!
September 27, 2025
Now let me preface this by saying this book is a part of a series but each book is about a different couple. If you were to just start with this book, the author gives you information on all the side characters, enough that you’re not lost. You can totally keep up. If anything you want to go read about their stories after this book.
I knew I would love this book when I realized the FMC was Sloane (the cleaner from Scorned Obsession) - this mafia romance has legit everything.
Possession, action, longing, hurt, angst, passion and resolution.
From the first chapter I was sucked into their story. Let me tell you I was sitting up in the middle of the night cursing these characters to get their shit together, and the ending was 🤌🏼 *chef’s kiss.
Every for someone who hasn’t been a huge mafia romance girl, this sucks you in. You have to read
I knew I would love this book when I realized the FMC was Sloane (the cleaner from Scorned Obsession) - this mafia romance has legit everything.
Possession, action, longing, hurt, angst, passion and resolution.
From the first chapter I was sucked into their story. Let me tell you I was sitting up in the middle of the night cursing these characters to get their shit together, and the ending was 🤌🏼 *chef’s kiss.
Every for someone who hasn’t been a huge mafia romance girl, this sucks you in. You have to read
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