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Finding Hope
Thirteen years ago, Carlo Moretti watched the girl he loved slide into a tomb—though lies were the only thing buried in there.
They told him she was dead.
They told him to forget her.
He couldn’t.
When a single phone call reveals Francesca Rossi is alive, Carlo will do anything to get her back.
He and his best friend must return to Sicily—the one place he swore off forever.
To confront the father who abandoned him.
And face a world of secrets, power, and blood.
The past didn’t just take her from him.
It shaped the lie that destroyed them both.
Taking her will ignite a war.
But losing her again?
That would destroy what little humanity he has left.
For fans of dark mafia romance, forbidden love, second chances, steamy open-door scenes with a sprinkling of MM, found family, and emotional high stakes.
They told him she was dead.
They told him to forget her.
He couldn’t.
When a single phone call reveals Francesca Rossi is alive, Carlo will do anything to get her back.
He and his best friend must return to Sicily—the one place he swore off forever.
To confront the father who abandoned him.
And face a world of secrets, power, and blood.
The past didn’t just take her from him.
It shaped the lie that destroyed them both.
Taking her will ignite a war.
But losing her again?
That would destroy what little humanity he has left.
For fans of dark mafia romance, forbidden love, second chances, steamy open-door scenes with a sprinkling of MM, found family, and emotional high stakes.
453 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2026
16 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Bushmills
11 books38 followersSamantha Bushmills writes steamy, emotionally charged romance that blends spice, heartache, and healing, with authentic mental health representation at its core. She’s the author of The Hope Trilogy, the interconnected standalone Severed Hope, and her latest release, Choosing Hope—a darkly tender MMF romance about shame, desire, and second chances.
She lives in the southwest of France with her husband, two teenage daughters, and a love for travel, cooking, and cocktails.
She lives in the southwest of France with her husband, two teenage daughters, and a love for travel, cooking, and cocktails.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Carlo has been close to my heart since his introduction, but watching him flourish in Finding Hope as he fought to get Chess back was incredible. His devotion to her is breathtaking, the kind of love where he would burn down the world to protect her after everything she endured being kidnapped, hidden away, and abused for thirteen years. This is a story of love lost and found, forgiveness, and Carlo’s determination to give Chess the life and freedom she deserves. I found him frustrating at first because of his impulsiveness, but his deep adoration for Chess completely won me over. Chess is resilient, strong, and courageous. Her forgiving nature and quiet optimism highlight her strength and make her the perfect match for Carlo. The story was gripping, emotional, and impossible to put down, and Carlo and Chess truly deserve the world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
After reading Choosing Hope, which follows Spencer's journey, I had so many questions about Carlo. Finding Hope not only brought me answers I was looking for and so much more. When the truth surfaces about someone Carlo has been grieving, the series of twists and truths exposed comes in. Spencer is trying to keep Carlo focused and guided but Carlo loves being in charge. This book has a phenomenal combination of second chance romance while slow burn into learning through healing. I am amazed to see the unfolding of truths and the foundations of honesty in this book. I throughly enjoyed the intensity, complex mature emotions, banter, spice and most of all ... the depths in which is Carlo. ✨️📚✨️
January 30, 2026
I had the opportunity to receive an advanced reader’s copy of Finding Hope by Samantha Bushmills. After reading Choosing Hope, which followed Spencer, I was really glad to finally get Carlo’s story, especially since he was mentioned so often in that book.
Finding Hope follows Carlo and Francesca and the trials and tribulations they face in order to be together. I truly enjoyed this book and found myself reaching for my Kindle often because I wanted to see what would happen next. It answered a lot of the questions I had about Carlo and helped me better understand his actions and mindset in Choosing Hope. There were moments when I genuinely felt bad for him, as he often felt unwanted and had already lost one of the only people he truly loved.
I also really enjoyed watching Chess grow throughout the story. She didn’t let her situation overrun her life, and once she was back with Carlo, she allowed love to take over. She didn’t keep herself hidden from him, which really showed that theirs is a true love and that these two were made for each other.
My only real complaint was the length. I felt like the story could have ended perfectly at chapter 37, and everything after that might have worked better as a novella.
As a heads-up for readers, this book includes MM and MMF scenes, as well as some heavier subject matter.
Finding Hope follows Carlo and Francesca and the trials and tribulations they face in order to be together. I truly enjoyed this book and found myself reaching for my Kindle often because I wanted to see what would happen next. It answered a lot of the questions I had about Carlo and helped me better understand his actions and mindset in Choosing Hope. There were moments when I genuinely felt bad for him, as he often felt unwanted and had already lost one of the only people he truly loved.
I also really enjoyed watching Chess grow throughout the story. She didn’t let her situation overrun her life, and once she was back with Carlo, she allowed love to take over. She didn’t keep herself hidden from him, which really showed that theirs is a true love and that these two were made for each other.
My only real complaint was the length. I felt like the story could have ended perfectly at chapter 37, and everything after that might have worked better as a novella.
As a heads-up for readers, this book includes MM and MMF scenes, as well as some heavier subject matter.
February 15, 2026
So I had a soft spot for Carlo after reading Choosing Hope and after the revelation that his one love wasn't dead I knew this one was gonna be good. Carlo has not had an easy life and the one constant has been his best friend Spencer. They lost Chess at a very young age and while Spencer met Sophie and moved on Carlo has been, to a degree, stuck in the past. He has lived his life to the max but he hasn't really been living. When Carlo discovers that Chess is still alive he has one goal and that is to get his girl back. Chess was forced into marriage and has had to live a caged life. While she has been kept comfortable she has also had to experience things no-one should endure but she is strong and resilient and has made the most of her captivity.
Chess and Carlo are end game for each other despite having to navigate their time apart and everything that happened in those years!
I really enjoyed their story and I enjoyed how the dynamic worked between Spencer and Sophie and Carlo and Chess.
This was another book I had the privilege of Beta reading and it was so much fun. You do not need to read Choosing Hope to enjoy Finding Hope.
Chess and Carlo are end game for each other despite having to navigate their time apart and everything that happened in those years!
I really enjoyed their story and I enjoyed how the dynamic worked between Spencer and Sophie and Carlo and Chess.
This was another book I had the privilege of Beta reading and it was so much fun. You do not need to read Choosing Hope to enjoy Finding Hope.
January 31, 2026
Thank you Samantha for allowing me to be a part of your ARC team ❤️
This book had me in a chokehold the entire time. From the first chapter to the last, I was invested. Carlo thought the woman he loved had “expired” (for the web professionalism), but he’d found out through his sickly father that she had in fact been very much alive for the past 13 years. Married to another man. This hurt him, but he went off to find her.
This book was so intense. I loved the twists and turns. I was literally on the edge of my seat the entire time. I was gripping my iPad like it was my lifeline. Holding my breath waiting for what came next. I loved the two of them together. They were explosive, and oh my, that spice level! 🥵🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book was so good, it’ll be one that will stay in the forefront of my mind for a very long time. Please tell me there’s another one? Physical copy? I’m gonna run over now and check lol.
This book had me in a chokehold the entire time. From the first chapter to the last, I was invested. Carlo thought the woman he loved had “expired” (for the web professionalism), but he’d found out through his sickly father that she had in fact been very much alive for the past 13 years. Married to another man. This hurt him, but he went off to find her.
This book was so intense. I loved the twists and turns. I was literally on the edge of my seat the entire time. I was gripping my iPad like it was my lifeline. Holding my breath waiting for what came next. I loved the two of them together. They were explosive, and oh my, that spice level! 🥵🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book was so good, it’ll be one that will stay in the forefront of my mind for a very long time. Please tell me there’s another one? Physical copy? I’m gonna run over now and check lol.
January 11, 2026
I have waited and hoped for this book. The whole series has been phenomenal, and Finding Hope added so much to the storyline. I will say that within the first few chapters, you get a bomb dropped on you. I mean, who would have thought!! The story of Carlo and Spencer has always been close to my hearts they never wavered from their love. But Chess and Carlo is a true love story that just makes your heart warm. I highly recommend this book and the whole series. Samantha is the queen of writing love stories, and every book just gets better and better.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story was a beautiful reminder of resilience, healing, and finding yourself again. The FMC is strong and self-made, reclaiming who she is after everything she’s endured, while the MMC is emotionally lost, believing he’s already lost the love of his life. Watching him realize she was never truly gone and learning to let himself be happy again; was both tender and heartbreaking. Their reconnection feels emotional, earned, and deeply satisfying, making this a powerful story about rediscovered love and personal growth.
February 2, 2026
This was my first book by Samantha and what a book! It is based around two key characters - Carlo and Chess who have known each other since they were children. The spice is off the page hot 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 and the storyline was fantastic!!!! The emotions of the characters felt so real for not just the two main characters but the other characters in the book.
The storyline was based on an event and it builds from there. I cannot give too many details of the book without giving spoilers but this is a must read for you!!!
I am off to read the rest of Samantha's books 📖❤️
The storyline was based on an event and it builds from there. I cannot give too many details of the book without giving spoilers but this is a must read for you!!!
I am off to read the rest of Samantha's books 📖❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC READ. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶🌶🌶
I hadnt read the first book but this was still a 5 star read for me! I am now going back and reading book one.
I adored Carlos and Chess! I loved the relationship of Spencer and Sophie and Carlos and Chess! I love a mafia romance and this book seriously had me hooked. I loved the flashbacks so you could get a sense of just what the relationship was like before she "died". I love a dual POV it gives me everything I need! The spicy scenes was spicy!
I hadnt read the first book but this was still a 5 star read for me! I am now going back and reading book one.
I adored Carlos and Chess! I loved the relationship of Spencer and Sophie and Carlos and Chess! I love a mafia romance and this book seriously had me hooked. I loved the flashbacks so you could get a sense of just what the relationship was like before she "died". I love a dual POV it gives me everything I need! The spicy scenes was spicy!
January 30, 2026
Carlo never stopped loving Francesca even when he was told she had died. So when he finally found out 13 years after from his dying father that she was in fact still alive and married to a mob boss.
Carlo”s best friend Spencer makes sure to keep him grounded, whilst also reuniting with a love he thought dead.
Francesca and Carlos love stood the test of time and is shows that their love is deep and real.
This an emotional reconnection of true love.
Carlo”s best friend Spencer makes sure to keep him grounded, whilst also reuniting with a love he thought dead.
Francesca and Carlos love stood the test of time and is shows that their love is deep and real.
This an emotional reconnection of true love.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Finding Hope was the mafia book i didnt know it needed. it checked all my boxes. I laughed, I cried, I threw my kindle when Carlo pissed me off with his ridiculous overprotective nature. I have not had a book take me through all those emotions in a while. I loved watching Chess overcome everything after being captive for 13 years. Basically having Stockholm syndrome. please tell me there will be a book about their future together!!!
February 2, 2026
While I did enjoy this book by the end of it, I had some mixed feelings about it throughout the book. I really loved seeing Carlo, Spencer and Chessy relationship develop separately and together. It makes me want to go back and read the story with Sophie to see the full picture of them. The book was a little slow for me. I found myself really wanting to stop, but pushing through because I knew it would pick up (which it did) So overall I did really enjoy it
January 18, 2026
This is a delightful story. An easy read that is hard to put down. Carlos and Chess’s story begins tragically and ends beautifully. A little spicy but perfectly readable if spicy isn’t really your thing. Deeply emotional, devoted to family and full of love, I highly recommend this read. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
January 28, 2026
So so so good!! I have zero complaints about this book. Chapter one was all it took to have me HOOKED.
Carlo and Chess's story is so beautiful. He proved over and over he would do anything for his woman. Spencer and Sophie were so solid in the story too. The created family in all of them together was perfect.
Carlo and Chess's story is so beautiful. He proved over and over he would do anything for his woman. Spencer and Sophie were so solid in the story too. The created family in all of them together was perfect.
January 30, 2026
If you are looking for suspense, lots of spice and true love, “Finding Hope” is for you. The story is about Carlos finds out his true love isn’t dead but was sold to a mafia don and Carlos’s quest to rescue her. It’s hot seeing Carlos be sweet and still be the super dom he is. Make sure you read “Choosing Hope” first.
February 13, 2026
Love it!
This book is about betrayal, lost love and a second chance. Carlo and Chess’s story is emotional. Thirteen years of grief and unanswered questions explode when they find each other. Their love is deep. Carlo is very protective. It’s dramatic, passionate, and full of love. I highly recommend it.
This book is about betrayal, lost love and a second chance. Carlo and Chess’s story is emotional. Thirteen years of grief and unanswered questions explode when they find each other. Their love is deep. Carlo is very protective. It’s dramatic, passionate, and full of love. I highly recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am in awe of this story. it's heartfelt and warming with enough edge and spice to keep you interested. The two main couples in this story are amazing and their love knows no bounds. if you like mafia romance this is for you
January 29, 2026
I received this book as an ARC . This is a new author for me and it was well written with characters that were well developed and a story that kept you turning the pages. I’ll go back and read the earlier books in this series as I need more of these characters and their history.
February 4, 2026
*Arc review*
Oh i enjoyed this one, it was stunningly beautiful.
CARLOS'S story, every minute of it. I love the dynamics of all the characters and the character growth of carlos was just lovely to read, he deserved this book.
Thank you samantha for sending this to me
Oh i enjoyed this one, it was stunningly beautiful.
CARLOS'S story, every minute of it. I love the dynamics of all the characters and the character growth of carlos was just lovely to read, he deserved this book.
Thank you samantha for sending this to me
January 30, 2026
A gripping and passionate read that stuck with me long after the final page. It was compelling and dangerous, power and resilience second chance romance novel that you won't regret picking up.
February 1, 2026
Great book!
January 30, 2026
This emotional story pulled me in from the start. I can’t imagine learning after more than a decade the person you loved wasn’t dead but alive. Chess was such a strong female character even more so after everything she’s been through. Carlo was complex, stubborn and totally a goner for Chess.
January 7, 2026
Another absolutely inCREDIBLE read from Samantha Bushmills.
I feel beyond blessed to be part of her team, and even more honored to have read this story.
Carlo is one of those characters that’s been so close to my
heart since he was introduced, and watching him absolutely FLOURISH in this story in order to get Chess back was incredible.
Chess’s character was more than I ever could have asked for. She is resilient, strong, courageous, and a downright badass.
The story was so well put together and the writing beautiful.
5⭐️
I feel beyond blessed to be part of her team, and even more honored to have read this story.
Carlo is one of those characters that’s been so close to my
heart since he was introduced, and watching him absolutely FLOURISH in this story in order to get Chess back was incredible.
Chess’s character was more than I ever could have asked for. She is resilient, strong, courageous, and a downright badass.
The story was so well put together and the writing beautiful.
5⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Auteur
This book is a 3.75✨️for me. It is totally worth a read,
They say, you never forget your 1st love. That is true. No matter who it is, it’s stays with you forever. Francesca, Carlos and Spencer are proof of true love and commitment.
She was dead and Carlos sorrow remained a permanent awareness in his heart.
Now, the truth comes to light and reveals that Francesca is alive. Carlos is overwelmed, enraged and devastated. Spencer stayed by his side, sharing his strength and calm, keeping him upright. They both need to find her. Carlos wants her back in his life, Spencer wants Carlos to find his happy ever after.
These characters are endearing and nothing less than real. Their honesty and loyalty are admirable. Their integrity is what I love most about them. They are unapologetic for who they are individually and to each other.
The mafia is the plot that brings the story together. Filled with twists and turns, I was entertained from start to finish.
On the downfall of this ARC review, I feel like subsential details could be added to the plot development. It all went too fast from one plan to another, missing the apprehension of whats to come. Also, more character buildup and sharing the vilains true anger and darkness would help to genuinely hate them, making the story more gut-wrenching. I just wish we had more background about all the other characters.
I'll finish with this quote from the book...
"Sometimes life is complicated. But love can be simple: show up, tell the truth, hold on."
They say, you never forget your 1st love. That is true. No matter who it is, it’s stays with you forever. Francesca, Carlos and Spencer are proof of true love and commitment.
She was dead and Carlos sorrow remained a permanent awareness in his heart.
Now, the truth comes to light and reveals that Francesca is alive. Carlos is overwelmed, enraged and devastated. Spencer stayed by his side, sharing his strength and calm, keeping him upright. They both need to find her. Carlos wants her back in his life, Spencer wants Carlos to find his happy ever after.
These characters are endearing and nothing less than real. Their honesty and loyalty are admirable. Their integrity is what I love most about them. They are unapologetic for who they are individually and to each other.
The mafia is the plot that brings the story together. Filled with twists and turns, I was entertained from start to finish.
On the downfall of this ARC review, I feel like subsential details could be added to the plot development. It all went too fast from one plan to another, missing the apprehension of whats to come. Also, more character buildup and sharing the vilains true anger and darkness would help to genuinely hate them, making the story more gut-wrenching. I just wish we had more background about all the other characters.
I'll finish with this quote from the book...
"Sometimes life is complicated. But love can be simple: show up, tell the truth, hold on."
February 2, 2026
Thirteen years ago, Carlo Moretti watched the girl he loved slide into a tomb—though lies were the only thing buried in there.
They told him she was dead.
They told him to forget her.
He couldn’t.
When a single phone call reveals Francesca Rossi is alive, Carlo will do anything to get her back.
He and his best friend must return to Sicily—the one place he swore off forever.
To confront the father who abandoned him.
And face a world of secrets, power, and blood.
The past didn’t just take her from him.
It shaped the lie that destroyed them both.
Taking her will ignite a war.
But losing her again?
That would destroy what little humanity he has left.
For fans of dark mafia romance, forbidden love, second chances, steamy open-door scenes with a sprinkling of MM, found family, and emotional high stakes.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Tropes: Dark Mafia Romance, Forbidden Love, Second Chances, Spice, MM/MF/MMF Romance, Found Family, Emotional High Stakes, Open Door, Kidnapping and Captivity, Forbidden Love, Lies & Betrayal, Abandonment, Secrets/Power/Blood, Suspense, Contemporary.
Finding Hope by Samantha Bushmills.
It all started with Spencer’s story in Choosing Hope and it now continues with Carlo’s story in Finding Hope and I love that we get to read Carlo’s story because he was mentioned over and over again in Choosing Hope and while I was reading that book, I wanted to read his story so much.
In Finding Hope we got the chance to follow Carlo and Francesca and all the trials and travails Carlo and Francesca faced together, all in their desperate bid to be together. And I found myself truly loving this story and I found myself wishing I could reread their story over again for the first time again as I just loved it that much while I waited hoping that eventually we’d get the next chapter of their story and find out what happened to them next.
Finding Hope truly was special as it answered the questions that I had been waiting to have answered about Carlo and honestly it helped me to understand Carlo, his actions, and his mindset in Choosing Hope so much better. And there were so many times my heart broke for Carlo as he felt as though he was unwanted (a feeling I know far to well) and sadly he had already lost the one person he truly loved and he felt truly loved him and saw him for who he truly was.
One of the other things that I really enjoyed was watched the growth and development Chess went through in Finding Hope. She never once let her situation penetrate and take over her entire life, and as soon as she was back with Carlo, she freely and happily let Carlo take over. She never hid away from him; she proved in this moment that the love that the two of them shared was one of true love and that they were truly meant for each other.
I do feel that I have to warn you, as not all readers enjoy MM, that there are scenes that include MM as well as MMF scenes plus some heavier subject matter so please be sure to read the trigger warnings.
I love the way that Samantha can dive into the character’s relationship’s, feelings, and their innate behaviours in this beautiful emotive and relatable way. Samantha has an ability to humanise all the characters she develops and she can make you believe in all of them and have you urging them towards their own HEA.
Samantha has this perfect ability to write some amazing spice scenes that include a lot of detailed open-door scenes. I love spice and I appreciate when the spicey scenes help to move the story forward and help the reader understand the progression of all the relationships and the developments and the characters feelings.
Finding Hope is such a beautiful story that is so well written about love, loss, finding love again & giving that love space to just be. I loved this book just as much as I loved Choosing Hope. I recommend that you read Choosing Hope before you read Finding Hope.
I highly recommend both books.
They told him she was dead.
They told him to forget her.
He couldn’t.
When a single phone call reveals Francesca Rossi is alive, Carlo will do anything to get her back.
He and his best friend must return to Sicily—the one place he swore off forever.
To confront the father who abandoned him.
And face a world of secrets, power, and blood.
The past didn’t just take her from him.
It shaped the lie that destroyed them both.
Taking her will ignite a war.
But losing her again?
That would destroy what little humanity he has left.
For fans of dark mafia romance, forbidden love, second chances, steamy open-door scenes with a sprinkling of MM, found family, and emotional high stakes.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.
Tropes: Dark Mafia Romance, Forbidden Love, Second Chances, Spice, MM/MF/MMF Romance, Found Family, Emotional High Stakes, Open Door, Kidnapping and Captivity, Forbidden Love, Lies & Betrayal, Abandonment, Secrets/Power/Blood, Suspense, Contemporary.
Finding Hope by Samantha Bushmills.
It all started with Spencer’s story in Choosing Hope and it now continues with Carlo’s story in Finding Hope and I love that we get to read Carlo’s story because he was mentioned over and over again in Choosing Hope and while I was reading that book, I wanted to read his story so much.
In Finding Hope we got the chance to follow Carlo and Francesca and all the trials and travails Carlo and Francesca faced together, all in their desperate bid to be together. And I found myself truly loving this story and I found myself wishing I could reread their story over again for the first time again as I just loved it that much while I waited hoping that eventually we’d get the next chapter of their story and find out what happened to them next.
Finding Hope truly was special as it answered the questions that I had been waiting to have answered about Carlo and honestly it helped me to understand Carlo, his actions, and his mindset in Choosing Hope so much better. And there were so many times my heart broke for Carlo as he felt as though he was unwanted (a feeling I know far to well) and sadly he had already lost the one person he truly loved and he felt truly loved him and saw him for who he truly was.
One of the other things that I really enjoyed was watched the growth and development Chess went through in Finding Hope. She never once let her situation penetrate and take over her entire life, and as soon as she was back with Carlo, she freely and happily let Carlo take over. She never hid away from him; she proved in this moment that the love that the two of them shared was one of true love and that they were truly meant for each other.
I do feel that I have to warn you, as not all readers enjoy MM, that there are scenes that include MM as well as MMF scenes plus some heavier subject matter so please be sure to read the trigger warnings.
I love the way that Samantha can dive into the character’s relationship’s, feelings, and their innate behaviours in this beautiful emotive and relatable way. Samantha has an ability to humanise all the characters she develops and she can make you believe in all of them and have you urging them towards their own HEA.
Samantha has this perfect ability to write some amazing spice scenes that include a lot of detailed open-door scenes. I love spice and I appreciate when the spicey scenes help to move the story forward and help the reader understand the progression of all the relationships and the developments and the characters feelings.
Finding Hope is such a beautiful story that is so well written about love, loss, finding love again & giving that love space to just be. I loved this book just as much as I loved Choosing Hope. I recommend that you read Choosing Hope before you read Finding Hope.
I highly recommend both books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
FINDING HOPE by SAMANTHA BUSHMILLS
Thirteen years after being told the love of his life died, Carlo Moretti discovers that not only is she still alive but she is in an intolerable situation, one that neither of them can abide.
Determined to rescue Francesca Rossi, Carlos will do ANYTHING it takes to set her free, whatever the cost to himself…..
—————————————
*** THIS IS AN ADULT BOOK SUITABLE FOR 18+ READERS. IT IS IMPORTANT YOU CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE STARTING AS IT INCLUDES MANY TOPICS THAT SOME MAY FIND UNCOMFORTABLE OR TRAUMATIC ***
I was fortunate enough to read the book prior to this one, CHOOSING HOPE by Samantha and although it certainly wasn’t the type of book I would naturally be drawn to I decided to give it a shot and am so glad I did. I thoroughly enjoyed it and was anxious to read this, Carlos’ and Chess’ story, so am so grateful to Samantha for an early read of this fascinating book.
Again, at first glance ‘Finding Hope’ seemed to be everything I don’t find particularly appealing in a book - there is a MM relationship, memories of a previous MMF relationship and Mafia involvement ( usually a real no no for me). However I adored ‘Choosing Hope’ so much and was therefore invested in learning more.
I absolutely recommend you read ‘Choosing Hope’ before this one as it will give you a greater understanding of the characters involved and an insight into their complex relationship.
Finding Hope is Carlo Moretti’s story of love lost and found, of desire, of desperation, of forgiveness, and his determination to give Francesca Rossi the freedom and life she deserves.
At first I found Carlo incredibly frustrating, his impulsiveness, his rashness, the way he put others in danger for his own desires. But as the story progresses his utter adoration for Chess, his desire to give her everything she wants, brought me round, and by the end I was willing him to get his HEA. He has heart and wants to do the right thing but sometimes his actions are questionable.
Chess’ forgiving nature and persistent optimism was heartwarming , the way she found any small flicker of positive, even in those who had severely wronged her, spoke to her resilient nature and highlighted the characteristics that attracted Carlo to her.
The story was complex but well thought through and very interesting. I genuinely couldn’t put the darn thing down. I even found the mafia side interesting- a sub genre I normally avoid at all costs. The intricacies of the relationships and how it affected people’s actions were fascinating.
I loved the inclusion of Spencer and Sophie in this book, particularly how Spencer was able to not only continue but actually deepen his relationship with Carlos, and how he was able to calm Carlos somewhat and steer his actions. I loved the dynamic between the four characters, the way they supported each other.
I am in awe of Ms Bushmills ability to delve deep into the character’s relationships, feelings and behaviours in an emotive and relatable manner. Her ability to humanise her characters makes you believe in them and urge them towards their HEA.
Yes, this book is very spicy with many detailed open door scenes. I’m not a fan of too much spicy action but I didn’t feel that any of the scenes in this story were superfluous, rather they aid the readers ability to understand the progression of the relationships and their developing feelings.
I read an ebook copy of this book, at around 450 pages and with a male model cover and good editing, I highly recommend this delightful story.
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Dark Mafia Romance
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Open Door Spice 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 MM/MF/MMF Spice Scenes
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Kidnapping and Captivity
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Forbidden Love
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Second Chance
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Found Family
Thirteen years after being told the love of his life died, Carlo Moretti discovers that not only is she still alive but she is in an intolerable situation, one that neither of them can abide.
Determined to rescue Francesca Rossi, Carlos will do ANYTHING it takes to set her free, whatever the cost to himself…..
—————————————
*** THIS IS AN ADULT BOOK SUITABLE FOR 18+ READERS. IT IS IMPORTANT YOU CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE STARTING AS IT INCLUDES MANY TOPICS THAT SOME MAY FIND UNCOMFORTABLE OR TRAUMATIC ***
I was fortunate enough to read the book prior to this one, CHOOSING HOPE by Samantha and although it certainly wasn’t the type of book I would naturally be drawn to I decided to give it a shot and am so glad I did. I thoroughly enjoyed it and was anxious to read this, Carlos’ and Chess’ story, so am so grateful to Samantha for an early read of this fascinating book.
Again, at first glance ‘Finding Hope’ seemed to be everything I don’t find particularly appealing in a book - there is a MM relationship, memories of a previous MMF relationship and Mafia involvement ( usually a real no no for me). However I adored ‘Choosing Hope’ so much and was therefore invested in learning more.
I absolutely recommend you read ‘Choosing Hope’ before this one as it will give you a greater understanding of the characters involved and an insight into their complex relationship.
Finding Hope is Carlo Moretti’s story of love lost and found, of desire, of desperation, of forgiveness, and his determination to give Francesca Rossi the freedom and life she deserves.
At first I found Carlo incredibly frustrating, his impulsiveness, his rashness, the way he put others in danger for his own desires. But as the story progresses his utter adoration for Chess, his desire to give her everything she wants, brought me round, and by the end I was willing him to get his HEA. He has heart and wants to do the right thing but sometimes his actions are questionable.
Chess’ forgiving nature and persistent optimism was heartwarming , the way she found any small flicker of positive, even in those who had severely wronged her, spoke to her resilient nature and highlighted the characteristics that attracted Carlo to her.
The story was complex but well thought through and very interesting. I genuinely couldn’t put the darn thing down. I even found the mafia side interesting- a sub genre I normally avoid at all costs. The intricacies of the relationships and how it affected people’s actions were fascinating.
I loved the inclusion of Spencer and Sophie in this book, particularly how Spencer was able to not only continue but actually deepen his relationship with Carlos, and how he was able to calm Carlos somewhat and steer his actions. I loved the dynamic between the four characters, the way they supported each other.
I am in awe of Ms Bushmills ability to delve deep into the character’s relationships, feelings and behaviours in an emotive and relatable manner. Her ability to humanise her characters makes you believe in them and urge them towards their HEA.
Yes, this book is very spicy with many detailed open door scenes. I’m not a fan of too much spicy action but I didn’t feel that any of the scenes in this story were superfluous, rather they aid the readers ability to understand the progression of the relationships and their developing feelings.
I read an ebook copy of this book, at around 450 pages and with a male model cover and good editing, I highly recommend this delightful story.
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Dark Mafia Romance
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Open Door Spice 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 MM/MF/MMF Spice Scenes
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Kidnapping and Captivity
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Forbidden Love
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Second Chance
👨🏻❤️👨🏼👩🏻❤️👨🏼 Found Family
Review of advance copy received from Author
Years ago, when Carlo’s father took Francesca away from him, he was determined to stop at nothing to get her back, but when he was told she had been taken and killed, he lost a part of himself that he has spent the last 13 years without. When his mother comes clean and admits that Chess has been in Sicily all along, he is determined to tear down every wall to get to her. Realizing that he needs a better plan than storming the gates of a mafia don’s compound, Spencer helps him assemble a group of allies to devise a plan to get Chess out, without bringing the wrath of Sicily down on them.
Francesca is the reluctant wife of a mafia don. Told by her guardians that it was the only way to keep her safe, she initially thought that Carlo would come save her, but when she finds out that she has been officially declared dead, she accepts that no one is coming. Now after thirteen years, and unable to produce an heir, she is trapped in the manor, with seemingly no way out. Until she is told that Carlo is now aware she is alive, and for the first time in over a decade, she has hope. However, she knows that leaving will not be as easy as walking through the doors, so she needs to decide whether the chance at happiness is worth the risk.
I received an early copy of this book from the author after reading Choosing Hope and it exceeded my expectations. I fell in love with Carlo in the last book and the glimpses we got of his relationship with Chess left me wanting to know more of their story, so I was thrilled to find out she was alive at the end of the book and even happier that we got their full story. Watching them fall in love all over again so many years later made it clear that none of those feelings ever went away. I also loved how involved Spencer and Sophie are in this book, as I wasn’t really sure how that dynamic would play out, but watching them both embrace Chess with open simply reiterated the fact that she was the missing piece in the relationship all along.
Francesca is the reluctant wife of a mafia don. Told by her guardians that it was the only way to keep her safe, she initially thought that Carlo would come save her, but when she finds out that she has been officially declared dead, she accepts that no one is coming. Now after thirteen years, and unable to produce an heir, she is trapped in the manor, with seemingly no way out. Until she is told that Carlo is now aware she is alive, and for the first time in over a decade, she has hope. However, she knows that leaving will not be as easy as walking through the doors, so she needs to decide whether the chance at happiness is worth the risk.
I received an early copy of this book from the author after reading Choosing Hope and it exceeded my expectations. I fell in love with Carlo in the last book and the glimpses we got of his relationship with Chess left me wanting to know more of their story, so I was thrilled to find out she was alive at the end of the book and even happier that we got their full story. Watching them fall in love all over again so many years later made it clear that none of those feelings ever went away. I also loved how involved Spencer and Sophie are in this book, as I wasn’t really sure how that dynamic would play out, but watching them both embrace Chess with open simply reiterated the fact that she was the missing piece in the relationship all along.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Having ARC read Choosing Hope & loving it, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Finding Hope - & it didn’t disappoint.
Carlo has had it rough his entire life, being shipped off from Sicily to England at 6 years old, his parents being absent, being sent to boarding school. & that’s just the start of his pain. In Choosing Hope we discovered his story, & his bond with Spencer & Francesca (Chess). But a big piece of Carlo died when Chess did, & he never recovered. For 13 years he held her in his heart, never having a relationship knowing they wouldn’t hold a candle to Chess.
When his mother rings out of the blue one day & says his father is dying & wants to see him, Carlo tells her exactly what he thinks of that! But when she tells him that Chess is alive, his whole world flips upside down.
Carlo travels to his father’s with Spencer & together they try & make sense of what happened all those years ago, & figure out how they get Chess back.
It isn’t as easy as they hope it will be, & Chess has many obstacles to overcome from her time as a Mafia Don’s wife, but when Carlo & Chess finally reunite it’s beautiful. He holds space for her, lets her make her own choices & gives her the freedom she hadn’t had for 13 years.
When a bomb is thrown at the pair of them (not literally!), Carlo does what Carlo does best & flees. He shuts down & he runs. But Spencer & Chess are there to put him back together, reminding him he is more than he believes he is.
This is a beautiful story about love, loss, finding love again & allowing it space to just be. I absolutely loved it.
Carlo has had it rough his entire life, being shipped off from Sicily to England at 6 years old, his parents being absent, being sent to boarding school. & that’s just the start of his pain. In Choosing Hope we discovered his story, & his bond with Spencer & Francesca (Chess). But a big piece of Carlo died when Chess did, & he never recovered. For 13 years he held her in his heart, never having a relationship knowing they wouldn’t hold a candle to Chess.
When his mother rings out of the blue one day & says his father is dying & wants to see him, Carlo tells her exactly what he thinks of that! But when she tells him that Chess is alive, his whole world flips upside down.
Carlo travels to his father’s with Spencer & together they try & make sense of what happened all those years ago, & figure out how they get Chess back.
It isn’t as easy as they hope it will be, & Chess has many obstacles to overcome from her time as a Mafia Don’s wife, but when Carlo & Chess finally reunite it’s beautiful. He holds space for her, lets her make her own choices & gives her the freedom she hadn’t had for 13 years.
When a bomb is thrown at the pair of them (not literally!), Carlo does what Carlo does best & flees. He shuts down & he runs. But Spencer & Chess are there to put him back together, reminding him he is more than he believes he is.
This is a beautiful story about love, loss, finding love again & allowing it space to just be. I absolutely loved it.
February 7, 2026
Just wow, couldn’t put this book down! I found this book to be a phenomenal Mafia romance novel. This book was amazing start to finish and gave you all the feels. The author gave us a second chance romance, a forbidden romance, secrets, lies and a love story that truly never died.
I loved the development of the characters all around. Samantha did a great job at making all the characters have a true human aspect to them that made them very relatable. Our FMC is on her journey of finding herself again. She is smart, witty and unconditionally herself. Our MMC is a lost soul who is slowly learning to be himself again once he finds his missing piece in life. He is loving, caring, will burn the world down for those he loves and is extremely hardheaded.
I loved getting to know the whole story behind Chessy, Carlo and Spencer. Even when she brought in additional characters into the mix it blended seamlessly into the storyline.
This is my first book from Samantha and while I haven’t read the other books in this series, I am adding them to by list now! Thank you Samantha for letting me be apart of the ARC team for this book!
I loved the development of the characters all around. Samantha did a great job at making all the characters have a true human aspect to them that made them very relatable. Our FMC is on her journey of finding herself again. She is smart, witty and unconditionally herself. Our MMC is a lost soul who is slowly learning to be himself again once he finds his missing piece in life. He is loving, caring, will burn the world down for those he loves and is extremely hardheaded.
I loved getting to know the whole story behind Chessy, Carlo and Spencer. Even when she brought in additional characters into the mix it blended seamlessly into the storyline.
This is my first book from Samantha and while I haven’t read the other books in this series, I am adding them to by list now! Thank you Samantha for letting me be apart of the ARC team for this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️ 2.5🌶️
Finding hope is a dark mafia romance that follows Carlo and Francesca. He is the son of a mafia boss who runs his own business and she is someone from his past that he thought he lost forever. Following Carlo finding out she is still alive he goes home to Sicily to see his father, who is dying, to get family background/history that he wasn’t privy to before now. Francesca was sold to forge an alliance with another mafia family and she has been expected to give the family an heir but her family helps her to keep that from happening. The rest of the story follows Carlo as he tries to save Francesca from the Geletini family and how they eventually get to have their HEA. Over all this is a phenomenal story and I personally will be coming back for another book! I’ve already read Severed Hope and it to is a phenomenal book so I am sure the others are just as good!
Finding hope is a dark mafia romance that follows Carlo and Francesca. He is the son of a mafia boss who runs his own business and she is someone from his past that he thought he lost forever. Following Carlo finding out she is still alive he goes home to Sicily to see his father, who is dying, to get family background/history that he wasn’t privy to before now. Francesca was sold to forge an alliance with another mafia family and she has been expected to give the family an heir but her family helps her to keep that from happening. The rest of the story follows Carlo as he tries to save Francesca from the Geletini family and how they eventually get to have their HEA. Over all this is a phenomenal story and I personally will be coming back for another book! I’ve already read Severed Hope and it to is a phenomenal book so I am sure the others are just as good!
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