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A MAFIA QUEEN
Aurora Bianchi will stop at nothing to make herself a widow. Max De Luca will rue the day he married her.

Having taken her rightful place as don, Aurora is ushering in a new era in the Bianchi family. Clearing the organisation of traitors, declaring war on those who betrayed her and destroying anyone who stands in her way.

The Bianchi Bastards risked everything to save Aurora and stand at her side.
They may be prepared to burn the world down for her, but she will annihilate anything that threatens them. Together they will avenge the fallen and Max De Luca will die for his sins.

AURORA BIANCHI WAS NEVER HIS PRINCESS…SHE’S THEIR QUEEN

Authors
This is a polyamorous (MMFMM) mafia romance where the FMC will never be asked to choose between her leading men.

Brutal Queen is the conclusion to Aurora, Enzo, Sinclair, Nico, and Benedict's duet and will bring you the HEA you've been waiting for since reading Broken Princess. The Broken & Brutal duet is an introduction to the Bianchiverse which will continue with interconnected standalones going forward.

Audiobook

Published July 22, 2025

408 people are currently reading
1360 people want to read

About the author

Laura Bennett

4 books166 followers
Laura Bennett is a romance author drawn to mixing equal parts intricate plot, engaging characters, swoon worthy romance and spice. She has a passion for writing and a love of reading that inspired her to take a leap, bringing her own characters to life.

Starting with The Bianchi Chronicles she'll be diving into a world of morally grey men, strong women and complicated moral outlooks. Join her author journey as we start off by exploring her dark mafia universe.

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5 stars
614 (34%)
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700 (39%)
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396 (22%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
Profile Image for Brittany Ferraro.
256 reviews1,418 followers
December 27, 2025

Wow what an incredible duet. This was the perfect conclusion to Aurora’s and her Bianchi bastards story, even though I know the series will continue with other couples. For her and her men, though, this felt like exactly the ending they deserved.

There were so many things I absolutely loved about this book. The mafia plotline was intense, gruesome at times, and completely addicting. I was fascinated by the way everything operated it was violent, but also smart and strategic. And I really appreciated how clearly everything was laid out. I never once felt confused about who was who or what was happening, which is impressive in a mafia world.

This was an emotional read for me I cried more than once, not just because I was sad, but because I was also moved. Aurora is the kind of FMC I admire deeply. Her strength, her resilience, her growth, she gave me chills LIKE MY HAIR WAS STANDING GUYS. And when she finally gets justice for everything she endured? I had tears in my eyes. That scene was perfection. It couldn’t have been written better.

What I love most about Aurora is that she refuses to sideline her emotions. She knows when to put herself first, and I respect the hell out of that. But she also makes space for her men to have their moments too. The balance between her independence and her care for them was so well done.

Watching her step into her power felt so natural it wasn’t forced, it just fit. She commands respect, and what’s even better is that the people around her want to give it. She’s officially one of my all-time favorite FMCs. I love her down!🧎🏼‍♀️🧎🏼‍♀️ YES DON BIANCHI😮‍💨

The relationship dynamics were perfect. Some remained platonic, rooted in deep emotional connection without crossing into romantic or sexual territory, and it worked beautifully. The bond between all the characters felt real and meaningful. It was the true definition of found family, and it got me right in the feels. Don’t get me wrong now. Those four really know how to share their woman and all the group scenes had me barking like a dog🙂‍↕️🫠😮‍💨🥵

This is mafia romance meets why choose, done right. It’s spicy (with some really fun kinks), the plot is completely addicting(the violence made is oh so fun) and the emotional payoff is everything. I adored this story
Profile Image for Lydsreadsxo.
29 reviews
November 11, 2024
That epilogue was the perfect way to end this duet…

Another amazing read from Laura, loved this duet and the plot! Forever inlove with the Bianchi b*stards
Profile Image for Jo C.
17 reviews
January 22, 2026
Brutal Queen delivered everything I wanted from the conclusion of Aurora and the guys’ story and then some. This finale was intense, emotional, and deeply satisfying from start to finish. Aurora’s journey comes full circle in a way that feels earned, powerful, and true to her character, and the bond she shares with the guys is fierce, messy, and unforgettable.

The spice? Spicy. Perfectly balanced with real emotional weight and tension. And the revenge? Oh, it was vengeful in the best possible way, dark, ruthless, and incredibly cathartic. Every payoff hit hard, and I loved watching the tables finally turn.

This book wrapped up the series with heart, heat, and just the right amount of brutality. If you’ve been following Aurora’s story, this conclusion will not disappoint. A phenomenal ending to a wild, addictive ride.
Profile Image for Michelle Sparano.
21 reviews
March 4, 2025
This author created an ABSOLUTELY FUCKING BEAUTIFUL polyamorous relationship. While there was plenty of INTENSE spicy hot scenes, the emotions layered into their love for each other as a group AND with each other individually was everything! The mafia world and revenge scenes were so satisfying too. I cannot wait for more from this author.
39 reviews
October 25, 2024
Brutal Queen is the 2nd book in the Broken/Brutal duet, so you must read book 1, Broken Princess, before reading this. I’ve been desperate to read Brutal Queen thanks to an epic ending to Broken Princess!

Brutal Queen did not disappoint. I won’t go into details as spoilers would be criminal, but this duet is dark, suspenseful and oh so hot.

Enzo will forever be mine, but my heart made room for Sinclair in Brutal Queen. Book 1 was epic, it set the scene and got me hooked. By the end I was desperate for Aurora and her men to get their vengeance, and I devoured Brutal Queen.

I was not left wanting. This book delivered everything I wanted it to, and more. A strong FMC, four men who support her, I many ways… and a villain so vile you’ll be screaming at your book/ereader.

Dark, why choose, mafia. Say less.

I doth my cap to Laura Bennett who has once again delivered an intelligently written, plot-filled read that you won’t want to put down.

Profile Image for Bree ♡︎.
191 reviews21 followers
October 26, 2024
This was the perfect way to end this! Aurora getting the revenge she absolutely DESERVED was spectacular. I was amazed by the way everything was described in depth and it made it that much harder for me to put the book down when I had to.

This is book 2, so I don’t want to say much plot wise, other than it was done to perfection. The ratio between spice, plot, and emotion was PERFECT. I was sucked in from the moment I opened my kindle and started reading! Sin, Enzo, Nico & Benny are perfect as always and I loved watching new dynamics blossom between everyone.

Overall, this book was more than I could have imagined and I’m so so blessed to be on your ARC team, Laura. ❤️
Profile Image for My_Strange_Reading.
736 reviews102 followers
June 14, 2025
I just don’t care for dom/sub stuff, and I should have done more research before I started it. It just wasn’t my thing. All the reviews I read talked about how obsessed they were with her from the beginning, and I like that aspect but I just really don’t enjoy dom/sub/debasement. I wanted to see how it ended so I read the sequel but just didn’t find it worth it.
164 reviews
June 12, 2025
Yeah yeah yeah, I know. I said I wasn’t going to read the second book and then the first left off on a cliffhanger and I couldn’t deny my love for this book. Madison, if you’re reading this- shut up.
Profile Image for Tanya.
378 reviews4 followers
January 10, 2025
4.5⭐️
4🌶

Really enjoyed this duet! Brilliant!
Profile Image for Maddie Wall.
63 reviews
March 25, 2025
I wanted more for this book but I still enjoyed it very much.
Profile Image for Kyle Modschiedler.
238 reviews131 followers
July 26, 2025
4.5 stars! This duet single handedly save mafia romance for me! I usually don’t vibe with it because it tries too hard but this duet was the perfect blend of mafia, romance and wholesomeness that just made it work so well. I love all of these characters so much!
Profile Image for haleigh lee.
255 reviews
August 7, 2025
what an incredible conclusion to this duet! i love these characters with my whole heart! definitely an all time fav duet! please check trigger warnings!
Profile Image for Nikita.
131 reviews595 followers
May 30, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up

This was SOOOOOO SPICY ARE YOU JOKING. Oh my word *clutches pearls*
Profile Image for Maria Hernandez.
79 reviews1 follower
September 25, 2025
“Grief is the price we pay for love.”

“The answer is power coupled with a complete lack of loyalty. He’s a man with no honour and I couldn’t care less why he thinks he deserved more than he had.”

so i did like this one a fraction less than book one but it wasn’t bad. i’m glad they got a happy ending and i’m also glad she got the revenge she rightfully deserved
Profile Image for H.
949 reviews
June 4, 2025
FMC takes her throne and rains pain down on her tormentor. 💯🔥‼️
Profile Image for Louise.
387 reviews21 followers
November 28, 2024
I absolutely adores this book, i was desperate for the reunion, and boy it delivered.

I adored them all so much, and their journey back together was everything!

Amazing, easy 5 star!
Profile Image for Rachael Johnson.
109 reviews2 followers
October 25, 2024
Following on from Broken Princess this is a gripping exploration of power dynamics and resilience. The story is so compelling I devoured this book within 24 hours of receiving my copy, Laura’s writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the complexities of her characters’ relationships. The pacing is intense and following Aurora and her men has me on the edge of my seat (literally) while the themes of survival following Enzo’s escape is heart wrenching, how he kept on going for her and them, the need to survive. The story follows everyone on a different journey in their own way as well as a combined end goal; Max’s demise which as a group of readers after Broken Princess and the things you find out during this story couldn’t come soon enough. I highly recommended book one and book two for fans of dark, character-driven fiction with a huge amount of spice. The ending of this book ends in the most amazing way possible with a joint connection of everyone. I love a book that has such an amazing story line as well as spicy scenes. If you fall in love with these books like I have then please read the prequel Axe to grind which is a prequel about Nico & Benny and stay tuned for 2025.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for SazziesWorld.
62 reviews46 followers
November 29, 2024
Wow! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

What a read!

Amazing!

That warehouse scene!
Chefs kiss!
684 reviews5 followers
October 26, 2024
Queen!!

Firstly, I am not a huge re-reader, even if I love a book because I enjoy the unknown of a book and falling into the world. However, I re-read Broken Princess before this one and I loved it the second time just as much as the first. To the point I didn’t realise I’d given it 4⭐️ and changed it to 5⭐️

Now onto the sequel. Dammmmmn!
Book 1 ended on a cliffhanger and you need to have read that book to follow this one.

This book is just as fast paced, psycho, revenge filled and spicy as the first!
We follow our FMC Aurora ‘Rory’ as she takes over as Mafia Don, not only after escaping her psycho husband who’s spent years torturing her, but after the loss of her father and being a female Don. She doesn’t have it easy but she’s so kickass and strong!

I love how in control and no nonsense she is! The MMC’s Enzo, Benny, Sinclair and Nico are her brutal guards as well as her heart and soul. They will do anything to protect her, while fighting her enemies but not just for her, alongside her.

I love the story of these books, the ease of the plot, the fast but not rushed pace, the just unhinged characters that were still endearing.

My top, top points of this book that I loved had to be the dynamic of the FMC and her men. She was a strong and fierce FMC who could look after herself, no damsel in distress here, she could take as good as she gave! Which I loved. Yes the MMC’s wanted to protect her, but they always did it with respect, they saw her strength and played with it, they never undermined her!

My other absolute high point was the spicy scenes! Not just for the spice, which was *chef’s kiss* but again the relationship and dynamics. It’s so hard and rare to get BDSM, Dom/Sub relationships across that don’t come across as ‘he thinks he’s Dom because he tells her what to do but there’s no respect’ this was all about the care and trust in the relationship!

I love that Rory was only ever sub and sub space in scenes. She wasn’t submissive at all daily, which is what it’s all about. That she was the Dom with one MMC, while a sub to another (switch) worked perfectly with the MMC she was a Dom too (won’t say which so no spoilers). Loved the dynamic of all the characters as they grew, their family grew and their trust grew.

I am a huge fan of why choose with M/F & M/M dynamics and ⚔️, especially when the plot isn’t about labels but the people and the relationships they develop with each other and the person rather than on defining a ‘sexuality’

Those truly was a captivating read from the very start.
I think I know which characters will have the spin off books, which I can’t wait for, I love a strong side character that doesn’t take from the main plot but leads you into something more later down the line.

Fantastic story, characters, writing and author! Love!! Can’t wait to see what’s next!!

5⭐️4🌶️

I was very fortunate to receive this book as an Arc but the views and opinions given have been completely my own.
Thank you @authorlaurabennett for the opportunity.
Profile Image for Tehmeena.
164 reviews7 followers
November 6, 2024
~Arc Review!~

Content Warnings;
Explicit S3xual Content. Contains sensitive topics and discussions within this book. Please check before reading.

Tropes;
🌹 Dual POVs
🌹 Protective/Unhinged MMCs
🌹 Badass-B FMC
🌹 Reverse Harem
🌹 Psychopathic Ex
🌹 Crime/Vengeance
🌹 Strong FMC
🌹 Spice/BDSM
🌹 Dark Mafia Romance

Oh. My. Lordt.
I am so happy with this one. This was so satisfying after the way the first one ended. I won't be giving away ANY spoilers so I'll keep it very vague because you will have to read it for yourself to understand my excitement! Please do read the first book because this is the second installment, you will need to do so to put all the dots together otherwise it might be a little confusing.

As hooked as I am from book one, book two only strengthened the intrigue! I'm so pleased Aurora and her guys got their revenge. Brutal Queen is everything I've been hoping for and more. The way they always supported her, always stood by her was so amazing - literally her forever bodyguards. Benedict, Enzo, Sinclair and Nico own my heart. And Aurora (aka Rory) has become such a badass-B after the traumatic sh*t she has been through, it makes my heart ache for her. I've been cheering for her from day one. Love her and how strong she's become by the end of this book as well.

The plotline is paced just right for me, not too fast and not too slow, there's something to keep your mind occupied. There's a lot of dark spice - please check your triggers - and this is why choose dark romance/reverse harem with a strong dash of mafia vibes thrown in. Also, there's anguish, banter, BDSM, mafia wars, vengeance, hot and spicy scenes, roller-coaster of emotions, trauma healing, family and loyalty, joy and love, and so much more...

If you're a fan of all of the above, then this is the book for you - add it to your TBR! You won't regret it.

Out of Fives;
🌹 Cover: ✨✨✨✨
🌹 Heat: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
🌹 Passion: 💋💋💋💋
🌹 Darkness: 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
🌹 Romance: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
🌹 Vengeance: 🔪🔪🔪🔪🔪
🌹 Angst: 💔💔💔💔
🌹 Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌹 Character Development: 👍👍👍👍👍
🌹 World Building: 🌍🌏🌍🌏🌏
🌹 Would I recommend? Yes!
🌹 Book Received: Kindle Edition.
🌹 Pages: 418.
🌹 Chapters: 38, icluding two epilogues.
🌹 Overall Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Dahlia’s Library.
170 reviews5 followers
November 4, 2024
ARC REVIEW_ Brutal Queen by Laura Bennett

Tropes:

Why choose MMFMM
Female leader
Vengeance
Healing from trauma
She rescues him
Mafia war
Psychopathic ex

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

This has been one of my most anticipated books of the year, and of course, Laura delivered an almost perfect conclusion to this duet. I say "almost" because I didn’t want it to end! I’m hoping with all my heart that we’ll get more of the guys and Aurora in future installments because I can’t imagine my reading life without these incredible characters.
In the first book, Broken Princess, Laura introduced us to a group of scattered, perhaps broken, men. When Rory reenters their lives, she gives them a purpose they didn’t realize they needed: to love, adore, and protect her above all else.In this second book, they do all that and more. We fall even deeper for Benny’s humor, Sinclair’s unwavering care for the group, Enzo’s profound sense of sacrifice for his family and the woman he loves, and Nico—who reveals he’s much more than the monster he pretends, or perhaps believes himself, to be, except when it comes to his beloved Bambi and his phoenix. Throughout the story, their relationships evolve in such a profound way that they form a family, bound by their determination to protect one another.
The anguish you feel while reading about Enzo’s struggles, and how empty the house and their lives seem without him, is almost tangible. And the joy when they are finally reunited? Absolutely overwhelming and heartfelt.
It’s truly beautiful to see the love, affection, and unwavering loyalty among them—not just from the boys toward Rory, but from the entire network of capos who would defend their Don at any cost. The massive plot twist Laura threw in the middle had me screaming, and it impacted each character in such compelling ways. I also loved how Sinclair steps up to support Benny when he needs it most. And of course, the spicy scenes? They’re breathtakingly well-written and exhilarating.
We can't forget the cherry on top—Max’s ending. The way Rory and Enzo finally close that chapter of their lives was as creative as it was painful, and it couldn’t have been more satisfying.
I’m beyond excited to read Stefano and Dr. Em’s story next!
Profile Image for Catte Coelho.
Author 5 books69 followers
March 9, 2025
This duet took me by surprise and was such an enjoyable read! When I finished, I was left with a deep sense of peace, knowing that everyone had found their safe space in each other. It was so satisfying to witness the evolution of these characters and their relationships.

This book reminded me why Reverse Harem is my favorite trope—because love and happiness have no limits. And these characters? They are definitely that for each other.

Aurora has officially become one of my favorite FMCs. Let’s be real—this woman is a BADDIE with balls of steel. The respect she’s earned is more than fair; she fought for it with her blood, sweat, and tears.

The boys? They are everything they should be and then some. Sinclair, though… Sinclair is everything. I adore Nico (he’s easily tied for first place with Sinclair in my heart), but if I had to choose, Sinclair owns me. There’s just no caregiver like him.

And can we please talk about the relationship between Sinclair, Benny, and Nico? Their development and chemistry flowed so naturally, and I need an extra chapter of just them. I WANT MORE.

I absolutely love when sexuality is fluid, when characters explore, and when we get to witness their journey of self-discovery. It’s raw, beautiful, and so well done here.

The same goes for the dom/sub dynamic between Aurora and Enzo—so well-executed and refreshing! It’s rare to see an FMC take on a dominant role, and I loved that element of surprise.

The plot isn’t overly complex, but it doesn’t need to be. Like I said in my review of the first book—it makes sense, it’s compact, and it serves its purpose perfectly.

For me, this series truly shines in its relationships: the found family, the Reverse Harem dynamics, and the connections between the characters. Plus, it leaves so much room for future stories! I need more of Stefano and Doc Em, Dom and Gabriella, and Luc and the girl who was rescued.

I’ll be eagerly waiting to read those stories.
Profile Image for Lisa Gilfillan.
42 reviews1 follower
October 26, 2024

And Laura does it again! I cannot express the love i have for all the main and side characters and this story line!

Max - good riddance! The happiness i felt when he met his end, would have loved a longer drawn out torture for him but thats just me and my hatred of him, i could have read an entire other book of just torture scenes and it wouldnt have been enough🔪

Aurora - Badass FMC, loved seeing her become Don Bianci and the way she ran things - Fair but fuck around and find out and the love she had for her men was just *chefs kiss*

I think this is the first RH book i have read where i dont have a clear favourite amongst the men 😱 i just adored them all equally. Zo, Sin, Nico and Benny are the most lovable book boyfriends ever 😍 and the spicy scenes my good lord they were incredible and so well written. Would love to have a further into the future update on them and the relationship between Benny and Sin and how that progresses, more with all 5 of them and how their dynamics are, Nico and Bennys relationship is amazing and they got each other rings! That made me so happy! Sin and his wonderful caring and nurturing ways but oh so dominant And Enzo 🥺 The end of book one had me sobbing for him and it continued in book 2, he deserves everything good and whole in this world 💔

The side characters that are in these books make me look forward to their own books as they brought so much do the story, i absolutely adore Doc Em! Looking forward to seeing what comes with her.

Basically i just need MORE!! It has become an obsession and i want to live in this world.

I received a copy of this book from the Author as an arc reader. My opinions are not swayed in any way and i am completely honest good or bad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Tracy  Hanes.
285 reviews267 followers
March 13, 2025
Wow, this duet had everything I love in a reading experience! A mafia why-choose romance packed with action? Say no more—I’m all in! I devoured both books and couldn’t get enough.

Aurora’s journey from a Broken Princess to a Brutal Queen was everything I could have hoped for. She starts off as a pawn, sold off to maintain peace in the ruthless mafia world, only to end up with the worst possible husband—Max De Luca. And let me tell you, Max might just be one of the most despicable MMCs I’ve ever encountered. He’s a villain through and through—sadistic, cruel, and absolutely relentless in his torment of Aurora. She endures years of suffering at his hands, so when the De Luca family needs to clean house, Max doesn’t hesitate to “handle” her. Left for dead, Aurora's fate seems sealed—until the Bastards, the cleanup crew, discover who she really is.

Instead of finishing the job, these men save her, nurse her back to health, and ignite a fire for revenge within her. And let’s talk about them—Sin, Benny, Zo, and Nico. In a why-choose romance, it can be tough to make each love interest stand out, but Laura nails it. Each of them brings something unique to the story, not just in their connection to Aurora but also in their dynamic with each other. And yes, this is an MMFMM romance, so there’s some sword-crossing, along with BDSM elements and some very dark themes—definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in.

If dark mafia why-choose romances are your thing, this is a must-read! I can’t wait to continue the series and hopefully get more from side characters like Doc Em. Solid 4.25 stars from me!
Profile Image for &#x1f339;.
222 reviews
October 29, 2024
I was lucky enough to be chosen to be an ARC reader.

The books starts off right as Broken Princess ends. We see the fallout from that spectacular ending, the group trying to find a new normal, but now with a hole in their hearts. My own heart was in my throat reading these early scenes.

We see Auroras growth as Don Bianchi; a powerful, kick arse leader, bringing in a new era for the Bianchi Family. It’s an empowering feeling reading about a woman who is the boss, not only commanding a group but doing it well and with respect. She’s absolutely shining and in her element. I did a little happy dance when I saw Auroras name at the top of the family tree at the start of the book.

The group individually and as a whole are beautiful to see together. The D/s dynamic within the group flows so well and the spicy scenes are extremely hot. I fell for Sinclair and Benny just that little bit more in this book.

The side characters are fantastic. I especially love Stefano and Katerina. Katerina is another strong, takes-no-nonsense woman and I cannot wait to see her go head to head with Stefano in what I hope will be their own book.

As for Max. Let’s just say he is one of my most hated villains and he deserved everything coming to him.

This is a fantastic conclusion to the duet which I very much recommend it you’re into;

Dark Mafia
Why choose (MMMFM)
Strong woman
Vengeance
306 reviews2 followers
November 4, 2024
This is the second installment in The Bianchi Chronicle Duology, picking up immediately after the intense cliffhanger of the first book. Aurora, Sinclair, Nico, and Benny believe that Enzo is dead, killed by Max. However, they soon discover that Enzo is very much alive, imprisoned and tortured by Max to feed his dark desires. Driven by a fierce need for vengeance against Max for what he’s done to her family and Enzo, Aurora embarks on a mission to rescue him. Aurora is determined to hunt Max down and end his reign of terror.

In this gripping sequel, Aurora truly steps into her power, embodying the queen we all knew she could be. She challenges the outdated norms of the syndicate, which traditionally favored a strong male leader while relegating women to mere accessories—seen but not heard. Before assuming her role as Don Bianchi, she cleans house, bringing in a circle of strong women to support and advise her. Her main goal of this book is to bring Max De Luca down.

The banter among Aurora and her four male companions is delightful, adding an engaging layer to the narrative. This book also features several spicy scenes, with some twists on BDSM. I loved reading this book and eagerly anticipate the next one, which will spotlight everyone’s favorite outspoken Doctor and Stefano.
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