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Hell's Kitchen #1
Hell's Kitchen
From International Bestselling authors Callie Hart and Lili St. Germain comes a tale of two families co-existing in a melting pot of violence, murder and drugs in the seedy underbelly of New York City.
Hell’s Kitchen
Theo and Sal Barbieri are brothers, tasked by their Mafioso father Roberto with a very clear purpose: kidnap Kaitlin McLaughlin. The beautiful daughter of Roberto’s Irish enemy. It’s high time Kaitlin was punished for her father’s sins—not to mention, her own.
And Operation: Kidnap Kaitlin is a roaring success… until it isn’t. When Kaitlin escapes into the busy streets of New York City, it’s a race against the clock to find her before Sal and Theo become the hunted.
Zeth Mayfair has traded his life as a hitman for a quieter existence, but it isn’t long before the past catches up with him in the form of Roberto Barbieri. Will he succumb to the lure of power that Roberto is offering? Or will he retaliate by killing every last Barbieri in New York to get them off his back?
Jason Ross is running. Woken in the night by a tip that the Gypsy Brothers are coming for him, he packs a bag and gets his girlfriend the hell out of dodge. Arriving in New York City in the midst of a heatwave is one thing, but being tailed by an entire drug cartel is another.
Worlds collide in Hell’s Kitchen as secrets come to light and sins are punished. Because we might be different in the light of day, but in the darkness, we’re all connected somehow.
Hell’s Kitchen is a serial comprising three volumes: Hell’s Kitchen, Tribeca and Bleecker Street.
Hell’s Kitchen
Theo and Sal Barbieri are brothers, tasked by their Mafioso father Roberto with a very clear purpose: kidnap Kaitlin McLaughlin. The beautiful daughter of Roberto’s Irish enemy. It’s high time Kaitlin was punished for her father’s sins—not to mention, her own.
And Operation: Kidnap Kaitlin is a roaring success… until it isn’t. When Kaitlin escapes into the busy streets of New York City, it’s a race against the clock to find her before Sal and Theo become the hunted.
Zeth Mayfair has traded his life as a hitman for a quieter existence, but it isn’t long before the past catches up with him in the form of Roberto Barbieri. Will he succumb to the lure of power that Roberto is offering? Or will he retaliate by killing every last Barbieri in New York to get them off his back?
Jason Ross is running. Woken in the night by a tip that the Gypsy Brothers are coming for him, he packs a bag and gets his girlfriend the hell out of dodge. Arriving in New York City in the midst of a heatwave is one thing, but being tailed by an entire drug cartel is another.
Worlds collide in Hell’s Kitchen as secrets come to light and sins are punished. Because we might be different in the light of day, but in the darkness, we’re all connected somehow.
Hell’s Kitchen is a serial comprising three volumes: Hell’s Kitchen, Tribeca and Bleecker Street.
113 pages, ebook
First published February 28, 2015
68 people are currently reading
3599 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
June 7, 2016
With two of my favorite authors collaborating on this work, I knew it had to be fantastic! This was a short, fast-paced read, packed full of action. Featuring two rival mob families, abduction and plenty of sex appeal, this first book in the series held my attention from start to finish.
With multiple separate, but related, stories going on at the same time, I was impressed with how easy it was to keep everything straight. We start off with two brothers, Theo and Sal Barbieri, sent by their father, Roberto the Butcher, to kidnap Kaitlin McLaughlin, the daughter of the Irish mob boss. Sounds simple enough for two men born in raised in the Mafia.
At first, things are going smoothly. The pair pose as drivers and pick up Kaitlin, along with her bodyguard, Gracie. However, things quickly unravel once the ladies figure out that they aren't who they say they are.
From that point forward, I found myself laughing a lot at Theo and Sal. They were like keystone cops, fumbling everything. It was surprising, but highly entertaining. I kept thinking, "What in the world are they going to do next?"
Eventually, they crash the limo and Kaitlin makes a break for it. Theo and Gracie get locked in a battle of wills. Sal gives chase to Kaitlin.
From that point forward, the storyline splits. We get varying viewpoints of these interconnected events, occurring simultaneously. Additionally, we are provided with brief glimpses of some of our favorite characters from these authors' earlier works. Zeth and Sloane, as well as Jase and Julz, make an appearance. I'm sure that their involvement in the series will be fleshed out more in later books.
While Sal couldn't catch Kaitlyn, he does abduct Scarlett, the waitress who helped her get away. Sal is determined to make Scarlett confess Kaitlin's whereabouts. However, he quickly discovers that the threat of death doesn't work well on somebody with a death wish.
Similarly, Theo and Gracie are stuck in a stand-off. Nobody knows better than Theo, that this screw-up will cost him and his brother their lives. His father will not hesitate to kill them. He is determined to find Kaitlin and he needs Gracie's help to do that.
Of course, each brother is trying to repair the damage they've done while also fighting their attraction for their captives. There are plenty of sexually charged moments that will keep you waiting for lines to finally be crossed and for walls to come down. Unfortunately, that doesn't happen in this first book.
The book ends with everything up in the air, as expected for the first in a series. I wanted to jump right into the next one immediately and therein lies the problem. Although this short book was released well over a year ago, with the next book originally expected to be released a few months later, it still hasn't happened!
I really should remember to check to be sure the entire series is complete before diving into this sort of thing, but I didn't and now I'm stuck! So yes, this was a fantastic book. But no, I wouldn't recommend that you start it until the other books are released. From what I can see, there is no clear expected release date for the next book or the others. Unless you enjoy being frustrated, hold off.
With multiple separate, but related, stories going on at the same time, I was impressed with how easy it was to keep everything straight. We start off with two brothers, Theo and Sal Barbieri, sent by their father, Roberto the Butcher, to kidnap Kaitlin McLaughlin, the daughter of the Irish mob boss. Sounds simple enough for two men born in raised in the Mafia.
At first, things are going smoothly. The pair pose as drivers and pick up Kaitlin, along with her bodyguard, Gracie. However, things quickly unravel once the ladies figure out that they aren't who they say they are.
From that point forward, I found myself laughing a lot at Theo and Sal. They were like keystone cops, fumbling everything. It was surprising, but highly entertaining. I kept thinking, "What in the world are they going to do next?"
Eventually, they crash the limo and Kaitlin makes a break for it. Theo and Gracie get locked in a battle of wills. Sal gives chase to Kaitlin.
From that point forward, the storyline splits. We get varying viewpoints of these interconnected events, occurring simultaneously. Additionally, we are provided with brief glimpses of some of our favorite characters from these authors' earlier works. Zeth and Sloane, as well as Jase and Julz, make an appearance. I'm sure that their involvement in the series will be fleshed out more in later books.
While Sal couldn't catch Kaitlyn, he does abduct Scarlett, the waitress who helped her get away. Sal is determined to make Scarlett confess Kaitlin's whereabouts. However, he quickly discovers that the threat of death doesn't work well on somebody with a death wish.
Similarly, Theo and Gracie are stuck in a stand-off. Nobody knows better than Theo, that this screw-up will cost him and his brother their lives. His father will not hesitate to kill them. He is determined to find Kaitlin and he needs Gracie's help to do that.
Of course, each brother is trying to repair the damage they've done while also fighting their attraction for their captives. There are plenty of sexually charged moments that will keep you waiting for lines to finally be crossed and for walls to come down. Unfortunately, that doesn't happen in this first book.
The book ends with everything up in the air, as expected for the first in a series. I wanted to jump right into the next one immediately and therein lies the problem. Although this short book was released well over a year ago, with the next book originally expected to be released a few months later, it still hasn't happened!
I really should remember to check to be sure the entire series is complete before diving into this sort of thing, but I didn't and now I'm stuck! So yes, this was a fantastic book. But no, I wouldn't recommend that you start it until the other books are released. From what I can see, there is no clear expected release date for the next book or the others. Unless you enjoy being frustrated, hold off.
July 15, 2015
NOW LIVE!
4.5 Stars
What happens when the genius minds of Lili Saint Germain and Callie Hart combine? This entertaining as fuck book. These ladies are on my auto buy list with their individual work, but as a team? They're an absolute powerhouse. I have loved both Blood & Roses and the Gypsy Brothers series. But when these two worlds collide? It's sure to be one epic fucking ride.
Before I get to my review, allow me to address a few key points if you're planning on reading this book...
1. If you have not read the Gypsy Brothers series, this book does have several plot spoilers from it that may be lost on you.
2. If you have not read the Blood & Roses series, this book does have several plot spoilers that may also be lost on you.
3. If you haven't read BOTH of those series, there are quite a few crossovers and plot intricacies that may also be lost on you.
Essentially, what I'm trying to tell you here is that you would enjoy this series a hell of a lot more if you read those 2 series first. While you wouldn't necessarily be lost, you just wouldn't have quite as much appreciation for the characters or their connecting stories if you haven't read them yet.
Hell's Kitchen has quite a few POVs packed into a little over 100 pages. Where usually I'd find that to be way too much and convoluted, the fact that the authors not only made it work here but it actually added to the story is certainly no small feat. EVERY single POV added something into the story and allowed to tie into the next one. It was so intricately woven together that I never once found myself confused or annoyed but simply enjoying the ride. So who are the key players in Hell's Kitchen? Let's do a roll call...
The Barbiery brothers The sons to the current Italian mafioso of New York, Roberto. Roberto is a cold hearted and ruthless kingpin that spares no one in his gain for power and vengeance, not even his sons. When his Irish enemy does him wrong, what best way to get revenge than to kidnap his daughter, Kaitlin, and to charge his two sons with it.
Kaitlin McLaughlin has a very short POV that gives the reader just enough insight into her vapidness and better understanding of her character. This is definitely no 17 year old girl you'll find yourself sympathizing with. She's one spoiled and vicious little bitch.
Gracie; Kaitlin's bodyguard and all around bad bitch. Now you know I love me a snarky and kick-ass heroine, and Gracie was that and so much more. She was taken into the McLaughlin fold at an early age and feels a bond with Kaitlin's father even though babysitting his spoiled little princess is not what she wants to be wasting her time on. The last thing she expects is to be caught in a chase with the sons of their Italian enemy.
Scarlett Winchester (Oh and I see what you did with her last name there, you clever girls. I love that!) Is a down on her luck actress that is currently attempting to put together the tatters of her previous life. Lost in a constant haze of drugs and alcohol if only to drown out the demons of the past and a mistake from 9 months ago that cost her everything.
In short, the woman is one hot mess. But while she may be broken, she still has a mouth on her and she can use snark as her weapon of choice, which definitely made for some awesome banter.
Zeth motherfucking Mayfair. Does the man even need an introduction. Zeth is trying to move on with his life together with Sloane. While he will never exactly live on the straight and narrow, he certainly has no desires to answer to anyone else now that he is no longer under the thumb of Charlie, his past 'employer'. Too bad that Roberto wants to take over Charlie's old territory, and he's very aware of Zeth's reputation and has no issues trying to get him back into the fold...and when a proposition doesn't do, a threat will suffice.
Jason Ross. Dealing with the fallout of what happened with his father and the MC, Jason and Juliette are on the run from the Columbian Cartel. Their current hiding place? Non other that New York. And you just KNOW that when all these worlds combine, it's going to be one hell of a ride. There's also the mention of Elliot, though he never has a POV here...at least not yet.
So there you have it, the seven key players of Hell's Kitchen, though I would say that the Barbiery brothers, Scarlett and Gracie are the main focus. I absolutely loved how the authors managed to tie together all of these POVs into one intricately woven story. If you're looking for the grit of GB, you won't find that here, but it doesn't really advertise to be that. What it is, is an entertaining, humorous, action-packed and thrilling ride that combines the worlds of B&R and GB along with some new players to give you another addicting series. I read this in one sitting, completely incapable of setting it down for even a second. I'm already practically salivating for the next installment and can't wait to see what happens next with all these characters.
ARC courtesy of authors in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
4.5 Stars
We're kidnapping a teenager. We should be wearing balaclavas and overalls, not fucking Armani suits."
What happens when the genius minds of Lili Saint Germain and Callie Hart combine? This entertaining as fuck book. These ladies are on my auto buy list with their individual work, but as a team? They're an absolute powerhouse. I have loved both Blood & Roses and the Gypsy Brothers series. But when these two worlds collide? It's sure to be one epic fucking ride.
Before I get to my review, allow me to address a few key points if you're planning on reading this book...
1. If you have not read the Gypsy Brothers series, this book does have several plot spoilers from it that may be lost on you.
2. If you have not read the Blood & Roses series, this book does have several plot spoilers that may also be lost on you.
3. If you haven't read BOTH of those series, there are quite a few crossovers and plot intricacies that may also be lost on you.
Essentially, what I'm trying to tell you here is that you would enjoy this series a hell of a lot more if you read those 2 series first. While you wouldn't necessarily be lost, you just wouldn't have quite as much appreciation for the characters or their connecting stories if you haven't read them yet.
Hell's Kitchen has quite a few POVs packed into a little over 100 pages. Where usually I'd find that to be way too much and convoluted, the fact that the authors not only made it work here but it actually added to the story is certainly no small feat. EVERY single POV added something into the story and allowed to tie into the next one. It was so intricately woven together that I never once found myself confused or annoyed but simply enjoying the ride. So who are the key players in Hell's Kitchen? Let's do a roll call...
The Barbiery brothers The sons to the current Italian mafioso of New York, Roberto. Roberto is a cold hearted and ruthless kingpin that spares no one in his gain for power and vengeance, not even his sons. When his Irish enemy does him wrong, what best way to get revenge than to kidnap his daughter, Kaitlin, and to charge his two sons with it.
Kaitlin McLaughlin has a very short POV that gives the reader just enough insight into her vapidness and better understanding of her character. This is definitely no 17 year old girl you'll find yourself sympathizing with. She's one spoiled and vicious little bitch.
Gracie; Kaitlin's bodyguard and all around bad bitch. Now you know I love me a snarky and kick-ass heroine, and Gracie was that and so much more. She was taken into the McLaughlin fold at an early age and feels a bond with Kaitlin's father even though babysitting his spoiled little princess is not what she wants to be wasting her time on. The last thing she expects is to be caught in a chase with the sons of their Italian enemy.
Scarlett Winchester (Oh and I see what you did with her last name there, you clever girls. I love that!) Is a down on her luck actress that is currently attempting to put together the tatters of her previous life. Lost in a constant haze of drugs and alcohol if only to drown out the demons of the past and a mistake from 9 months ago that cost her everything.
In short, the woman is one hot mess. But while she may be broken, she still has a mouth on her and she can use snark as her weapon of choice, which definitely made for some awesome banter.
Zeth motherfucking Mayfair. Does the man even need an introduction. Zeth is trying to move on with his life together with Sloane. While he will never exactly live on the straight and narrow, he certainly has no desires to answer to anyone else now that he is no longer under the thumb of Charlie, his past 'employer'. Too bad that Roberto wants to take over Charlie's old territory, and he's very aware of Zeth's reputation and has no issues trying to get him back into the fold...and when a proposition doesn't do, a threat will suffice.
Jason Ross. Dealing with the fallout of what happened with his father and the MC, Jason and Juliette are on the run from the Columbian Cartel. Their current hiding place? Non other that New York. And you just KNOW that when all these worlds combine, it's going to be one hell of a ride. There's also the mention of Elliot, though he never has a POV here...at least not yet.
So there you have it, the seven key players of Hell's Kitchen, though I would say that the Barbiery brothers, Scarlett and Gracie are the main focus. I absolutely loved how the authors managed to tie together all of these POVs into one intricately woven story. If you're looking for the grit of GB, you won't find that here, but it doesn't really advertise to be that. What it is, is an entertaining, humorous, action-packed and thrilling ride that combines the worlds of B&R and GB along with some new players to give you another addicting series. I read this in one sitting, completely incapable of setting it down for even a second. I'm already practically salivating for the next installment and can't wait to see what happens next with all these characters.
ARC courtesy of authors in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
February 28, 2015
4.5 STARS! ★★★★☆
"You know who I am, sweetheart. I'm the enemy."
Let me just say that Callie and Lili are amazing dark romance authors on their own and put them together, you're gonna expect some really dark and messed up stuffs going on in this read, right? Or maybe a whole lot of violence and blood shedding? Wrong. Well hold onto your guns & knives, these two ladies just raised a whole new level of Hell with this collaboration because Hell's Kitchen is nothing like I've read before and took me by a complete surprise!
Two households war, two brothers and two women who got caught in the crossfire of it all in the heart of NYC; Theo and Sal Barbeiri are sent on a mission by their notorious father, Roberto to kidnap the daughter of their Irish rival mafia head. Sounds like an easy task when you do the math, two Italian boys versus one spoilt daddy's girl. But just when everything that could possibly go wrong seriously goes wrong, buckle up for Operation Gone Awry.
Right off the prologue, I knew I was gonna be taken on for one thrilling ride and indeed it was but boy, I wasn't expecting the direction these authors took BUT I LOVED IT! It's deliciously dark, it's edgy plus sexy and believe it or not, it was one helluva damn entertaining read. I don't know what possessed those two ladies while they wrote this one but I'm pretty sure they made it their personal mission to make their readers laugh maniacally in even the most dire situations.
I know, trust me that sounds pretty unbelievable coming from those two who had written some damn f*cked up stuffs in the past but you will be completely surprised by what this dynamic duo is capable of.
I loved the unpredictability that came with every chapter and with each new character coming into play, the transitions of multiple POVs came off smoothly and not to mention, the entire story was paced so well that I found myself devouring the entire thing in no time. A wonderful balance of action-packed scenes (man-on-lady fight OMFG), the sizzling undercurrent of sexual tensions, the dark humor that leapt off these pages AND VOILA you'll get the unexpected birthchild of Hart Saint Germain.
Also, what happens when Lili's Gypsy Brothers series and Callie's Blood & Roses series all collide in one place? All I can say is that fans of both series will be in for one mighty treat and you'll be needing some cold showers thereafter (I know I did). Well someone surely turned the heat up because the re-acquaintance of your favorite characters from both series will have your Kindle burning up to an all-time high!
It goes without saying that this read easily lands itself on my Top 2015 reads shelf. My only wish is that it was a longer read rather than a prequel novella length but overall, I felt the ladies did a fantastic job setting up some amazing groundwork to set the wheels in motion for the next instalments. It ends with a mini cliffy twist but just enough to keep you on your toes for the next one!
Callie Hart & Lili St Germain, you've completely outdone yourselves with this one, I LOVE IT! I NEED MORE.
Hell's Kitchen is the first part of the Hell's Kitchen trilogy and is a collaboration work between Callie Hart and Lili St Germain.
ARC kindly provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
"You know who I am, sweetheart. I'm the enemy."
Let me just say that Callie and Lili are amazing dark romance authors on their own and put them together, you're gonna expect some really dark and messed up stuffs going on in this read, right? Or maybe a whole lot of violence and blood shedding? Wrong. Well hold onto your guns & knives, these two ladies just raised a whole new level of Hell with this collaboration because Hell's Kitchen is nothing like I've read before and took me by a complete surprise!
Two households war, two brothers and two women who got caught in the crossfire of it all in the heart of NYC; Theo and Sal Barbeiri are sent on a mission by their notorious father, Roberto to kidnap the daughter of their Irish rival mafia head. Sounds like an easy task when you do the math, two Italian boys versus one spoilt daddy's girl. But just when everything that could possibly go wrong seriously goes wrong, buckle up for Operation Gone Awry.
Right off the prologue, I knew I was gonna be taken on for one thrilling ride and indeed it was but boy, I wasn't expecting the direction these authors took BUT I LOVED IT! It's deliciously dark, it's edgy plus sexy and believe it or not, it was one helluva damn entertaining read. I don't know what possessed those two ladies while they wrote this one but I'm pretty sure they made it their personal mission to make their readers laugh maniacally in even the most dire situations.
I know, trust me that sounds pretty unbelievable coming from those two who had written some damn f*cked up stuffs in the past but you will be completely surprised by what this dynamic duo is capable of.
I loved the unpredictability that came with every chapter and with each new character coming into play, the transitions of multiple POVs came off smoothly and not to mention, the entire story was paced so well that I found myself devouring the entire thing in no time. A wonderful balance of action-packed scenes (man-on-lady fight OMFG), the sizzling undercurrent of sexual tensions, the dark humor that leapt off these pages AND VOILA you'll get the unexpected birthchild of Hart Saint Germain.
Also, what happens when Lili's Gypsy Brothers series and Callie's Blood & Roses series all collide in one place? All I can say is that fans of both series will be in for one mighty treat and you'll be needing some cold showers thereafter (I know I did). Well someone surely turned the heat up because the re-acquaintance of your favorite characters from both series will have your Kindle burning up to an all-time high!
It goes without saying that this read easily lands itself on my Top 2015 reads shelf. My only wish is that it was a longer read rather than a prequel novella length but overall, I felt the ladies did a fantastic job setting up some amazing groundwork to set the wheels in motion for the next instalments. It ends with a mini cliffy twist but just enough to keep you on your toes for the next one!
Callie Hart & Lili St Germain, you've completely outdone yourselves with this one, I LOVE IT! I NEED MORE.
Hell's Kitchen is the first part of the Hell's Kitchen trilogy and is a collaboration work between Callie Hart and Lili St Germain.
ARC kindly provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2015
Hell's Kitchen is LIVE! * Amazon US * Amazon UK * Amazon AUS * iBooks * Barnes & Noble * Kobo * Smashwords *
This is a luscious story of an underground world.
Hell's Kitchen is the much anticipated collaboration between the crazily good writing minds of Callie Hart and Lili Saint Germain. On the surface it's about a feud between the Barbieri and McLaughlin families but, of course, in true Hart Saint Germain style, there's so much more going on. Characters both old and new are presented to us within the layers of this brilliantly told underworld story that has humour, personality, feisty charismatic characters, sexiness and pure grit.
Here are some of the players:
Kaitlin McLaughlin: Feisty, spoilt, tough and the daughter of Paddy McLaughlin
Gracie O'Connor: Body guard to Kaitlin. Very competent and SEXY. She owns her role and wants to belong to the McLaughlin family.
Scarlett Winchester: Nine month ago her life devastatingly changed. She's hooked on pills and alcohol. Fearless with sass and a feisty personality making her maybe seem more courageous than she really is.
Theo and Sal, the Barbieri brothers I LOVE them already, their individual personalities shine through the prose making them a highlight attraction in this Mafia style story. Their father, Roberto, "..has a medieval mentality and can hold a grudge like no one else on earth," and who best to enforce his grudges but his two boys? Do things always go to plan? That's something each reader will discover for themselves.
The layered story is entwined with action, grittiness and humour. The way each character is introduced into the story, the way it all unfolds, is highly engaging. I found myself smiling and laughing at witty comments and outrageous moments, then grimacing at the edgier elements. I love the way all the entire story arc is tied together. The array of characters having their own starring role in the prose. I'm not usually a fan of multiple perspectives and usually find a compulsion to skip through to my favourite couple but within the context of this story it worked perfectly. I wanted to know about them all, each individual scene caught my attention and left me wanting more. I thought I may be confused with the switches but a I wasn't, the transitions worked and the focus of the story in it's entirety never wavers. The way the characters lace through the book in bite-size pieces, sets the tone and the scene of this underground world and the characters who reside there to perfection.
Encountering a favourite couple from the Gypsy Brothers was just brilliant and I imagine fans of Blood and Roses will feel the same about the role of much loved characters from that series.
The underground world of Lili Saint Germain and Callie Hart has collided and I'm holding on tight because it's going to be a bumpy, dramatic, intense gritty ride. The ending was an 'OMG' moment for me. I love the way it left me anticipating the next book, not feeling like I'm hanging off a cliff but that I've just watched the first of a great TV series. I'm so ready for the next episode to be uncovered and to watch the developing relationships between the various characters. If you love stories with plenty of action, bags of personality, intriguing characters, gritty goings on with a dark edge and the element of the unexpected this is up there with the best and NOT TO BE MISSED! Hell's Kitchen is a great start to a series that I think is going to develop into something very special.
**Reading notes:
My reading history with these authors are....
Lili Saint Germain: I've read the entire Gypsy Brothers series and Cartel
Callie Hart: I've only read Rebel (I am yet to read the entire Blood and Roses series)
#ProblemsOfABookAddict
There are spoilers for the Gypsy Brothers and Blood & Roses in terms of who survives and who ends up with whom.... My feeling in terms of spoiling Blood and Roses for myself is, one generally gets a sense of these outcomes whilst reading and if I leave a big enough time gap then I will go back to the Blood and Roses series refreshed so I believe I'll still feel the intensity of the series. The decision to read subsequent series out of order is always tricky but I've no regrets. HELL'S KITCHEN is BRILLIANT and the series is not to be missed.
My favourite teasers from the authors...
EXCERPT
Hell’s Kitchen is book #1 of a three-part serial romantic-suspense series; is currently offered at $0.99.
Tribeca book #2 in the Hell's Kitchen series is due for release: 5th May 2015 *EXCLUSIVE iBooks pre-order link*
Sign up to the Hell's Kitchen newsletter
Advanced copy received from the authors, via PREMA Romance, in exchange for an honest review
This is a luscious story of an underground world.
Hell's Kitchen is the much anticipated collaboration between the crazily good writing minds of Callie Hart and Lili Saint Germain. On the surface it's about a feud between the Barbieri and McLaughlin families but, of course, in true Hart Saint Germain style, there's so much more going on. Characters both old and new are presented to us within the layers of this brilliantly told underworld story that has humour, personality, feisty charismatic characters, sexiness and pure grit.
Here are some of the players:
Kaitlin McLaughlin: Feisty, spoilt, tough and the daughter of Paddy McLaughlin
Gracie O'Connor: Body guard to Kaitlin. Very competent and SEXY. She owns her role and wants to belong to the McLaughlin family.
Scarlett Winchester: Nine month ago her life devastatingly changed. She's hooked on pills and alcohol. Fearless with sass and a feisty personality making her maybe seem more courageous than she really is.
Theo and Sal, the Barbieri brothers I LOVE them already, their individual personalities shine through the prose making them a highlight attraction in this Mafia style story. Their father, Roberto, "..has a medieval mentality and can hold a grudge like no one else on earth," and who best to enforce his grudges but his two boys? Do things always go to plan? That's something each reader will discover for themselves.
The layered story is entwined with action, grittiness and humour. The way each character is introduced into the story, the way it all unfolds, is highly engaging. I found myself smiling and laughing at witty comments and outrageous moments, then grimacing at the edgier elements. I love the way all the entire story arc is tied together. The array of characters having their own starring role in the prose. I'm not usually a fan of multiple perspectives and usually find a compulsion to skip through to my favourite couple but within the context of this story it worked perfectly. I wanted to know about them all, each individual scene caught my attention and left me wanting more. I thought I may be confused with the switches but a I wasn't, the transitions worked and the focus of the story in it's entirety never wavers. The way the characters lace through the book in bite-size pieces, sets the tone and the scene of this underground world and the characters who reside there to perfection.
Encountering a favourite couple from the Gypsy Brothers was just brilliant and I imagine fans of Blood and Roses will feel the same about the role of much loved characters from that series.
The underground world of Lili Saint Germain and Callie Hart has collided and I'm holding on tight because it's going to be a bumpy, dramatic, intense gritty ride. The ending was an 'OMG' moment for me. I love the way it left me anticipating the next book, not feeling like I'm hanging off a cliff but that I've just watched the first of a great TV series. I'm so ready for the next episode to be uncovered and to watch the developing relationships between the various characters. If you love stories with plenty of action, bags of personality, intriguing characters, gritty goings on with a dark edge and the element of the unexpected this is up there with the best and NOT TO BE MISSED! Hell's Kitchen is a great start to a series that I think is going to develop into something very special.
**Reading notes:
My reading history with these authors are....
Lili Saint Germain: I've read the entire Gypsy Brothers series and Cartel
Callie Hart: I've only read Rebel (I am yet to read the entire Blood and Roses series)
#ProblemsOfABookAddict
There are spoilers for the Gypsy Brothers and Blood & Roses in terms of who survives and who ends up with whom.... My feeling in terms of spoiling Blood and Roses for myself is, one generally gets a sense of these outcomes whilst reading and if I leave a big enough time gap then I will go back to the Blood and Roses series refreshed so I believe I'll still feel the intensity of the series. The decision to read subsequent series out of order is always tricky but I've no regrets. HELL'S KITCHEN is BRILLIANT and the series is not to be missed.
My favourite teasers from the authors...
EXCERPT
Hell’s Kitchen is book #1 of a three-part serial romantic-suspense series; is currently offered at $0.99.
Tribeca book #2 in the Hell's Kitchen series is due for release: 5th May 2015 *EXCLUSIVE iBooks pre-order link*
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Advanced copy received from the authors, via PREMA Romance, in exchange for an honest review
March 3, 2015
★★★★ 4 Stars ★★★★
Now LIVE!
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1M1QCBc
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1Ea98bb
Mafiosi brothers Theo & Sal Barbieri have a job to do, they have been tasked by their father Roberto to kidnap Kaitlin, the daughter of his Irish rival Paddy McLaughlin.
Things do not exactly go to plan and we are left with a comical but lethal mix of lust and fast paced action. If you think you have an idea where this book is going, you'd be wrong.
Gracie and Scarlett are the women who get caught in the crossfires of the sexy Italian brothers and instead of accepting their fate, they both turn out to be Bad Ass with a capital 'B', The men have met their match and they are most definitely distracted from finishing the job that their father has set for them.
I loved that the girls in this book didn't behave as you'd typically expect. I also loved the sex, but then again I didn't expect anything less.
Throw in Zeth & Sloane from Callie Hart's Blood & Roses series, and Jase & Julz from Gypsy Brothers and you have yourselves a shit hot new series. A bit confusing with all the many POV's but other than that I loved it!
This is book 1 in the trilogy, and it is recommended that you have read the aforementioned series by Hart and Saint Germain first.
ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
Now LIVE!
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1M1QCBc
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1Ea98bb
Mafiosi brothers Theo & Sal Barbieri have a job to do, they have been tasked by their father Roberto to kidnap Kaitlin, the daughter of his Irish rival Paddy McLaughlin.
Things do not exactly go to plan and we are left with a comical but lethal mix of lust and fast paced action. If you think you have an idea where this book is going, you'd be wrong.
Gracie and Scarlett are the women who get caught in the crossfires of the sexy Italian brothers and instead of accepting their fate, they both turn out to be Bad Ass with a capital 'B', The men have met their match and they are most definitely distracted from finishing the job that their father has set for them.
"Who the fuck is this woman? My dick wants to find out. The rest of me? I'm not so sure.
She's so unhinged, she's almost...scaring me."...
I loved that the girls in this book didn't behave as you'd typically expect. I also loved the sex, but then again I didn't expect anything less.
Throw in Zeth & Sloane from Callie Hart's Blood & Roses series, and Jase & Julz from Gypsy Brothers and you have yourselves a shit hot new series. A bit confusing with all the many POV's but other than that I loved it!
This is book 1 in the trilogy, and it is recommended that you have read the aforementioned series by Hart and Saint Germain first.
ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
Want to read
January 6, 2016
I am so excited to get started. Yeah I probably should have read Gypsy Brothers first. I want to read them all. This time thing or lack thereof is a serious problem. I am starting with series written by both Callie Hart and Lili St. Germain.
Books in Hell’s Kitchen Series should be read in order:
Part 1: Hell’s Kitchen
Part 2: Tribeca
Part 3: Bleecker Street
March 3, 2015
Title: Hell's Kitchen
Series: Hell's Kitchen,#1
Author: Hart St Germain
Release date: 2nd March, 2015
Rating: 4.5 stars
Cliffhanger: Yes
HEA:
Callie Hart and Lili Saint Germain have taken an eclectic bunch of characters, blended them with revenge driven plot and produced a high energy intriguing foundation to what I have no doubt will be a masterpiece.
Everyone knows how much I love Callie's Blood & Roses Series but for shame, this is the first time I would have read anything by Lili St Germain. I feel like this is the part where I need to
The story focuses on the rivalry between the Italian Barbieri family and the Irish McLaughlin family. Theo and Sal Barbieri are tasked by their Mafioso father to kidnap his rivals daughter, Kaitlin.
I tried to hate the Barbieri boys, I really did. I wanted to be shocked and appalled the lengths they would go to in the name of retribution. On the surface I was, but deep down..
It's safe to say the plans goes awry, hilariously, entertainingly awry. I wasn't expecting that but I so welcomed it. Being dragged into the fold are two amazingly strong, kick ass females who hold their own against the Barbieri boys.
I welcomed the cross over between characters from both Authors other work. Some I met for the first time and some I knew very well, say one Zeth Mayfair.
On a serious note, I really loved what Callie and Lili have done here so far with the story. I'm hedging my bets on who to trust but can't even begin to fathom which direction we are going to take next. But with the shocking statement made at the end I'm sure it will be a nail biting ride.
Copy kindly Provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Thank You!
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July 23, 2016
4.5 It's Gettin' Hot in the Kitchen Stars!!!
Woah! This book is like a wild, high-speed car chase, on crack with cops chasing your ass, and shooting at you while doing so!! Go ahead and clear a few hours because once you start this puppy you will NOT be able to walk away from it until
Basically, as soon as it starts up, we meet Roberto Barbieri, head of the Barbieri family extraordinaire, with some deep ties. Roberto has an order for his sons that seems simple enough, until of course it isn't. Now, this is Italian mafia and in Italian mafia, family is EVERYTHING!!! However, apparently the rules don't apply to Roberto, either that or he is just a ruthless bastard with an agenda because he makes it abundantly clear to his sons that if they screw this up, it will be the last mistake they make.
Soo, intercept the limo picking up teenaged Kaitlin McLaughlin, daughter of the Barbieri's head rival, Irish mafia head, Paddy McLaughlin, and get her to daddy. Easy enough for Theo and Sal Barbieri to pull off right?
Well...
After reading that first chapter, I just assumed we were in for some type of forbidden love triangle perhaps between these two brothers and the little Irish princess. WRONG!!! That is not what goes down here whatsoever.
Like I said, this book is a wild ride, and it is surprisingly funny too...like, laugh your ass off funny. Because for as deadly and intimidating as Theo and Sal are, every single thing that can go wrong, does for them on this job, and it is hilarious to read. They both have this very snarky, dry sense of humor that will have you cracking up, and make what's going on around you in the story that much easier to handle...because some if it is pretty gruesome. Like, I don't think I will ever look at a deep fryer quite the same way again! LOL!!!
And the very last thing that they expect is for the two women that royally fucked up their day, to be the ones that they can't stop thinking about...in their own private, totally in denial, fucked up way.
Really this book read to me like an episode of The Sopranos or 24 or whatever your fave high-paced show is. Yes, there is a lot of set up and it's quick, but it is seriously kick ass and was just a fun read.
Oh, oh, oh... and some old friends from The Blood & Roses Series AND The Gypsy Brothers Series do tie in here which was pretty fun and crazy!!!
And finally, in true Callie Hart and Lili St. Germain fashion, this one ends in a huge twist.
All in all, the beginning that what I am sure will be a very fun and sexy, kick ass series!! :)
March 1, 2015
✻ BOYS vs GIRLS ✻
Hell’s Kitchen is a story of two rivalling mafia families. Things heat up right away when the Barbieri boys are instructed to abduct the daughter of their enemy.
”The sins of the father are visited upon the heads of his children.”
Besides the uniqueness of two authors collaborating on a story ...it has viewpoints from all the main characters. Having the voices for that many characters was a new experience for me because in other books I’ve only seen it done in third person.
Two couples make a cameo in this series; one from each authors previous work. I have not read Lili St. Germain’s series: Gypsy Brothers so I wasn’t not familiar with the back story on her characters. Which I don’t think matters because their role, so far, added to the steaminess of the story.
I, however, did know the other couple in the story, Zeth & Sloane. I read their series last week and all I can say is WOW! Blood & Roses rocked my world.
Overall, Hell’s Kitchen is a quick read with lots of action. One of my favorite parts is how the authors ended the story. The twist at the end had me doing an evil grin. ♥ One more thing since I was asked a couple times if this was about the TV show -> Hell’s Kitchen with Chef Ramsey. No, Hell’s Kitchen is a neighborhood in Manhattan.
TEAM BARBIERI or connected to the Barbieri's:
Roberto - Italian mafia and dad to Theo and Sal.
Theo - brother to Sal. Their father, Roberto, wants them to kidnap his rivals daughter, Kaitlyn.
Sal - brother to Theo.
TEAM McLAUGHLIN or connected to the McLaughlin's:
Patrick - Irish mafia and dad to Kaityln
Kaityln - daughter to a man in the Irish mafia. Spoiled.
Gracie - Kaitlyn's body guard.
Scarlett - waitress, ex-con, former actress. Takes a steady diet of booze and pills.
CAMEOS from other series:
Zeth/Sloane - Blood & Roses series
Jase/Julz - Gypsy Brothers
SERIES:
Continuing story.
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
Hell’s Kitchen is a story of two rivalling mafia families. Things heat up right away when the Barbieri boys are instructed to abduct the daughter of their enemy.
”The sins of the father are visited upon the heads of his children.”
Besides the uniqueness of two authors collaborating on a story ...it has viewpoints from all the main characters. Having the voices for that many characters was a new experience for me because in other books I’ve only seen it done in third person.
Two couples make a cameo in this series; one from each authors previous work. I have not read Lili St. Germain’s series: Gypsy Brothers so I wasn’t not familiar with the back story on her characters. Which I don’t think matters because their role, so far, added to the steaminess of the story.
I, however, did know the other couple in the story, Zeth & Sloane. I read their series last week and all I can say is WOW! Blood & Roses rocked my world.
Overall, Hell’s Kitchen is a quick read with lots of action. One of my favorite parts is how the authors ended the story. The twist at the end had me doing an evil grin. ♥ One more thing since I was asked a couple times if this was about the TV show -> Hell’s Kitchen with Chef Ramsey. No, Hell’s Kitchen is a neighborhood in Manhattan.
TEAM BARBIERI or connected to the Barbieri's:
Roberto - Italian mafia and dad to Theo and Sal.
Theo - brother to Sal. Their father, Roberto, wants them to kidnap his rivals daughter, Kaitlyn.
Sal - brother to Theo.
TEAM McLAUGHLIN or connected to the McLaughlin's:
Patrick - Irish mafia and dad to Kaityln
Kaityln - daughter to a man in the Irish mafia. Spoiled.
Gracie - Kaitlyn's body guard.
Scarlett - waitress, ex-con, former actress. Takes a steady diet of booze and pills.
CAMEOS from other series:
Zeth/Sloane - Blood & Roses series
Jase/Julz - Gypsy Brothers
SERIES:
Continuing story.
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
March 18, 2015
Holy hell what did I just read?? This story seriously takes on a life of it’s own and I am not sure where things are going, but the start was addicting.
Hell’s Kitchen is set in NYC amongst organized crime and the story begins with us meeting Theo and Sal Barbieri. They are the son’s of Roberto, the mob boss, and the story begins with him telling them they are to kidnap Kaitlin McLaughlin. Kaitlin is the daughter of Roberto’s enemy and known as the Irish princess. Seems easy enough right, well with Hart Saint Germain at the helm you know that won’t be the case.
Like I was saying things are not what they seem and once things blow up in their face the story quickly escalates. I cannot stand when books are spoiled especially a book like this, where there are so many different elements and surprising twists. So I will just into my thoughts and let you discover the plot as it unfolds.
My thoughts. I read a whole lot of serials and I love when they start off strong, it just opens up a tons of possibilities. This first installment was everything it should be. We get a strong background and there is plenty of room to grow and build. I love how the characters are being developed and are all unique. I like how the women are strong willed and determined. I love how the guys are sexy and charming, even in this darker story I was laughing out loud during some moments.
Naturally, we get plenty of hot as sin scenes and get to meet some of our favorite characters. I honestly can’t tell you where things are going. Just from this beginning I have my own theories and hopes for the story and I can’t wait to see how things unfold. I love how unique Callie Hart and Lili Saint Germain’s writing is and together they blew me away. I am so looking forward to how this story unfolds.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Hell’s Kitchen is set in NYC amongst organized crime and the story begins with us meeting Theo and Sal Barbieri. They are the son’s of Roberto, the mob boss, and the story begins with him telling them they are to kidnap Kaitlin McLaughlin. Kaitlin is the daughter of Roberto’s enemy and known as the Irish princess. Seems easy enough right, well with Hart Saint Germain at the helm you know that won’t be the case.
Like I was saying things are not what they seem and once things blow up in their face the story quickly escalates. I cannot stand when books are spoiled especially a book like this, where there are so many different elements and surprising twists. So I will just into my thoughts and let you discover the plot as it unfolds.
My thoughts. I read a whole lot of serials and I love when they start off strong, it just opens up a tons of possibilities. This first installment was everything it should be. We get a strong background and there is plenty of room to grow and build. I love how the characters are being developed and are all unique. I like how the women are strong willed and determined. I love how the guys are sexy and charming, even in this darker story I was laughing out loud during some moments.
Naturally, we get plenty of hot as sin scenes and get to meet some of our favorite characters. I honestly can’t tell you where things are going. Just from this beginning I have my own theories and hopes for the story and I can’t wait to see how things unfold. I love how unique Callie Hart and Lili Saint Germain’s writing is and together they blew me away. I am so looking forward to how this story unfolds.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2017
"You know who I am, sweetheart. I'm the enemy."
WOWWWZA.
I knew when I picked this bad boy up I was in for a wild ride, and I was NOT disappointed.
Hell’s Kitchen starts off with two brothers, Theo & Sal Barbieri, getting ordered by their father Roberto “The Barber of Brooklyn” Barbieri, to kidnap the daughter of their Irish rival mafia head.
Sounds easy, right? WRONG. After their failed attempt, everything goes to hell and maniacally two other women get involved in this shoddy kidnap attempt.
"We're kidnapping a teenager. We should be wearing balaclavas and overalls, not fucking Armani suits."."
The story features the POV of each character that is involved and flows seamlessly throughout, while also reacquainting readers with some other beloved characters from the ladies’ other novels.
I expected this story to be crazy, fast paced, action packed, and filled with dire situations and twists and turns, and that it was. Things I was not expecting, though? For it to be SO FUNNY. I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I laughed out loud while reading this! It’s filled with so much dry humor I actually had to put my kindle down a few times from throwing my head back with laughter.
The only thing I do wish was that it was a little longer. It was so well written I just couldn’t help but want MORE! But with that being said, Callie Hart & Lili St. Germain did an amazing job setting the storyline up I can tell it’s going to lead towards some crazy drama and I can't wait for the rest of the installments. I devoured this thing in no time and I am dying for what comes next!
Oh, and on a final note, Zeth’s appearance? Sweet Baby Jesus I almost forgot how much I love that dirty, dark man.
"We're not done yet, Angry girl".
UGH I SWEAR TO CHRIST all he has to say is that nickname and I am done for.
Hell's Kitchen is the first part of the Hell's Kitchen Trilogy and is a collaboration work between Callie Hart and Lili St. Germain. While this can be read without reading the Gypsy Brothers and Blood and Roses series, I do think reading those first will just enhance the experience ;). Also - this book contains some spoilers from both of the series.
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*I received an ARC via PREMA Romance in exchange for an honest review*
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January 16, 2015Coming soon! Pre-order links will be available shortly.
Roberto Barbieri is known in the Kitchen by many names: Bobby B. The Barber of Brooklyn. Il Assassino. My brother and I call him Father. No matter what name you call him by, when Roberto Barbieri tells you do something, you do it. No questions asked. And you do not fuck it up.
Money.
Power.
Sex.
Blood.
It all hangs in the balance.
And in this world?
Somebody always loses.
Roberto Barbieri is known in the Kitchen by many names: Bobby B. The Barber of Brooklyn. Il Assassino. My brother and I call him Father. No matter what name you call him by, when Roberto Barbieri tells you do something, you do it. No questions asked. And you do not fuck it up.
Money.
Power.
Sex.
Blood.
It all hangs in the balance.
And in this world?
Somebody always loses.
March 3, 2015
3 Slightly Underwhelmed Stars-
LIVE on AMZ - http://amzn.to/1AS7kRM (.99)
Hell's Kitchen may very well be a case of wrong expectations for me. After reading several of both the Gypsy Brothers and Blood & Roses books, I was expecting everything as dark, gritty, and hawt as we got there. Not so much.
The gist of Hell's Kitchen is two mafia families colliding. The Italian mafia family, the Barbieri's, are abducting the daughter of the Irish mafia head, Pappy McLaughlin. Salvatore and Theo are assigned to the task of abducting Kaitlin McLaughlin. Except everything that can go awry does.
Here's the thing- Hell's Kitchen seems like complete satire or parody to the dark and grit of typical mafia books. These two guys reminded me of the characters of Dumb and Dumber movie. Right down to the black Lincoln limo, suits, and black cabbie hat, the flashbacks to D&D were constant!
They're complete goofballs but also mafia goofballs, at that. It WAS funny. It wasn't dark and gritty to me, though. Yes, does mafia happenings occur in this book- for sure- abductions, murder, etc. So mixing comedy with that trope just didn't fit wonderful for me. All I kept thinking is, "These guys are idiots and they're letting these women BEST them!"
I found myself a bit confused with the entire plot of this book because there's so many characters, each getting their own POV. So plot lines were spread here, there and everywhere. Throw in cameo sex scenes from Jase/Julz and Zeth/Sloane and we've got ourselves a mass confusion in my head.
Seven different POVs (out of eleven chapters) in this book-
Sal Barbieri- Italian mafia son #1 (son of Roberto Barbieri) He's an idiot. I found him hilarious. Not hot...just a total Jim Carey dork.
Theo Barbieri- Italian mafia son #2 (son of Roberto Barbieri) Another idiot but slightly less so. We shall compare him to Jeff Daniels.
Kaitlin McLaughlin- Irish Mafia daughter (daughter to Pappy McLaughlin)- spoiled, drug-abusing, tramp.
Gracie O'Connor- Kaitlin's security guard. I liked her character. Tough.
Scarlett Winchester- Ex-movie star, ex-con. Works in diner caught in the crossfire of the failed abduction..
Jase/Julz- Characters from Gypsy Bros. Not sure what their roll will be here other than FUCKHOT sex.
Zeth/Sloane- Characters from Blood & Roses. Not sure what their roll will be here other than FUCKHOT sex.
There's your seven POVs! Hell's Kitchen reads like a prequel to the series. It's a novella and doesn't leave with a cliffy but without much of any conclusion either. It just ends in the middle of the current plotline.
So, not an entire bust for me. I found the book enjoyable but in a parody kind of way. Will I read book two? Maybe. I just wish I felt more invested in it, I guess. It's tagged under dark (more gray because there was a murder scene); it's tagged thriller (um, nope); I'd like to introduce a new tag...call it MobCom. Perfect!
So, go into this read with an open mind and not expecting all things Gypsy Bros. or B &R and also be prepared to find yourself laughing at some of their antics. Just don't expect any sort of resolution just yet. I have friends that LOVED this book so maybe it's just me that feels slightly disappointed...
Favorite Quotes-
"I have to fight to not come inside her as soon as her slick walls are squeezing me tight. For a moment, I can't breathe. I can't think. All I can do is let my eyes shut, and tense to stop my dick from coating the inside of her warm pussy with my load." Jase
"Color stay lip color is hot, but not when it won't wash off your balls." Sal
Advanced readers copy received by author in exchange for an HONEST review. Quotes taken from this pre-published copy and may change in finished product.
June 6, 2015
Type: Book 1 of 3 from Hell’s Kitchen novella series
POV: First Person – Multiple
Rating:
Theo and Sal of the Barbieri clan were tasked by their father to exact revenge by kidnapping the daughter of their rival Irish clan boss. The job was supposed to be simple. Get the girl and bring her back in one piece.
Kaitlin McLaughlin’s kidnapping turned complicated when she had a tough female bodyguard that would do anything to be in good grace of the big boss. One city was certainly not big enough for two rival families.
Callie Hart and Lili St. Germain are among my favorite romantic thriller/suspense authors. So when they combined creativity, I expect nothing less than explosive result. They certainly delivered on that.
I needed a bit of time to get into the groove when I first started reading. There were a lot of characters introduced very quickly and things happened before you could take a breath.
After I got acquainted well enough with who’s who and their roles, it all fell into place nicely. I love that the book is fast pace. It kept my attention and kept me on my toes.
I love both of the Barbieri brothers, but my favorite is Theo. He’s the older, more ambitious one.
I love Sal too. He was more of a dickhead. But the scene when he came back to
his home and found a surprise was memorable.
I like Scarlet. I’m interested to know more about her. Gracie was ok, but I’m not particularly fond of her.
My favorite scene in the book was definitely the storeroom scene with Theo taunting Gracie while “taking care” of someone else. That was hot.
I love that the authors’ characters from previous books made appearance but it was too brief. Their roles were yet to reach full potential.
Personally, I don’t think you need to read Blood & Roses series by Callie Hart or The Gypsy Bothers series by Lili St. Germain to enjoy this. There was enough background for you to be in the loop.
If you love fast pace, action pack with sexiness in between, Hell’s Kitchen would satisfy your need.
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
POV: First Person – Multiple
Rating:
Theo and Sal of the Barbieri clan were tasked by their father to exact revenge by kidnapping the daughter of their rival Irish clan boss. The job was supposed to be simple. Get the girl and bring her back in one piece.
Kaitlin McLaughlin’s kidnapping turned complicated when she had a tough female bodyguard that would do anything to be in good grace of the big boss. One city was certainly not big enough for two rival families.
Callie Hart and Lili St. Germain are among my favorite romantic thriller/suspense authors. So when they combined creativity, I expect nothing less than explosive result. They certainly delivered on that.
I needed a bit of time to get into the groove when I first started reading. There were a lot of characters introduced very quickly and things happened before you could take a breath.
After I got acquainted well enough with who’s who and their roles, it all fell into place nicely. I love that the book is fast pace. It kept my attention and kept me on my toes.
I love both of the Barbieri brothers, but my favorite is Theo. He’s the older, more ambitious one.
I love Sal too. He was more of a dickhead. But the scene when he came back to
his home and found a surprise was memorable.
I might be a person nobody knows, a girl with my face turned down to the pavement so nobody sees me, but I see them. I see all of them. I hear them.
I like Scarlet. I’m interested to know more about her. Gracie was ok, but I’m not particularly fond of her.
My favorite scene in the book was definitely the storeroom scene with Theo taunting Gracie while “taking care” of someone else. That was hot.
I love that the authors’ characters from previous books made appearance but it was too brief. Their roles were yet to reach full potential.
Personally, I don’t think you need to read Blood & Roses series by Callie Hart or The Gypsy Bothers series by Lili St. Germain to enjoy this. There was enough background for you to be in the loop.
If you love fast pace, action pack with sexiness in between, Hell’s Kitchen would satisfy your need.
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
September 18, 2015
OHHHHH mennn....
I need the next book like NOW!!!!!!!!
Don't ask me what this book is about because besides telling you it's a mafia novel I would be spoiling all the fun if I told you more.
What I can tell you is that I freking loved and enjoyed this book.
If you are then you need to pick up this novel and not put it down until you finish reading it :P
The duo Callie and Lili did it again and I can't wait to see what's installed for us in the next books because this one ends with a cliffhanger and it leaves you wanting more.
And this could totally be a line from this book because I love a bad ass heroin and this novel has more then one tough and powerful woman :D
I need the next book like NOW!!!!!!!!
Don't ask me what this book is about because besides telling you it's a mafia novel I would be spoiling all the fun if I told you more.
What I can tell you is that I freking loved and enjoyed this book.
If you are then you need to pick up this novel and not put it down until you finish reading it :P
The duo Callie and Lili did it again and I can't wait to see what's installed for us in the next books because this one ends with a cliffhanger and it leaves you wanting more.
And this could totally be a line from this book because I love a bad ass heroin and this novel has more then one tough and powerful woman :D
March 8, 2015
4.5 stars!
The Barbieri brothers have one task, or should I say order, given to them by their father, the king of the east coast Italian mafia. Salvatore and Theo need to get the enemy's Irish daughter, Kaitlin McLaughlin back to their father unscathed. She lives in LA, and will be arriving via plane, on this hot New York morning.
It's too bad that nothing is turning out as planned. As their mark slips through their fingers, the brothers are separated and each end up taking a woman with them to try to find out where Kaitlin has gone. Gracie is Kaitlin's bodyguard, which Theo has a hold of. And Sal has come across a waitress that knows where Kaitlin went.
Stakes are high, and payment will mean bloodshed. The brothers need to find their objective. Too bad they keep getting themselves into situations that deter them from what needs to get done.
After reading both the Blood and Roses and the Gypsy Brothers series, I became an instant fan of Callie Hart and Lili St. Germain. When I found out they were collaborating, it was an instant "must read". These two sure know how to write great action-packed situations, that leave you dying to find out what happens next. I'm loving the characters and the gritty storyline that follows them. A guaranteed page turner.
Even though this was a short introduction to the story, it was still filled with so many things. Not only was I satisfied to get the different POV's from all the characters, but having the main characters from both authors series intertwined with the new story, was icing on the cake. Loved getting little snippets from Jase and Zeth.
I'm already loving the four main characters. The predicaments that they're all finding themselves in are not only intense, but funny, and maybe a little hot. The sexual tension is starting to rise, which is always a plus.
I'm also very curious to see what becomes of Kaitlin...
The quintessential mafia princess has gotten herself into a bad situation, and I feel like she will deserve whatever happens to her.
Would definitely recommend this, especially if you have already read and liked the other series mentioned. It's not necessary to read those series, but I feel like I got into this pretty easily, knowing their writing style. Cannot wait to see what will happen next!
The Barbieri brothers have one task, or should I say order, given to them by their father, the king of the east coast Italian mafia. Salvatore and Theo need to get the enemy's Irish daughter, Kaitlin McLaughlin back to their father unscathed. She lives in LA, and will be arriving via plane, on this hot New York morning.
It's too bad that nothing is turning out as planned. As their mark slips through their fingers, the brothers are separated and each end up taking a woman with them to try to find out where Kaitlin has gone. Gracie is Kaitlin's bodyguard, which Theo has a hold of. And Sal has come across a waitress that knows where Kaitlin went.
Stakes are high, and payment will mean bloodshed. The brothers need to find their objective. Too bad they keep getting themselves into situations that deter them from what needs to get done.
After reading both the Blood and Roses and the Gypsy Brothers series, I became an instant fan of Callie Hart and Lili St. Germain. When I found out they were collaborating, it was an instant "must read". These two sure know how to write great action-packed situations, that leave you dying to find out what happens next. I'm loving the characters and the gritty storyline that follows them. A guaranteed page turner.
Even though this was a short introduction to the story, it was still filled with so many things. Not only was I satisfied to get the different POV's from all the characters, but having the main characters from both authors series intertwined with the new story, was icing on the cake. Loved getting little snippets from Jase and Zeth.
I'm already loving the four main characters. The predicaments that they're all finding themselves in are not only intense, but funny, and maybe a little hot. The sexual tension is starting to rise, which is always a plus.
I'm also very curious to see what becomes of Kaitlin...
The quintessential mafia princess has gotten herself into a bad situation, and I feel like she will deserve whatever happens to her.
Would definitely recommend this, especially if you have already read and liked the other series mentioned. It's not necessary to read those series, but I feel like I got into this pretty easily, knowing their writing style. Cannot wait to see what will happen next!
March 2, 2015
☆ I received an ARC via PREMA Romance in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! ☆
Amazon US
Amazon UK
.:If you can't stand the heat, get the hell out of the kitchen:.
Hell’s Kitchen reminded me of Gypsy Brothers meets The Santini Brothers and a little Pepper Winters mixture.
Everything had a foreboding kind of feel, tinged in a growing entangled web that kept getting bigger and bigger.
The whole plot structure had a complex stand, integrated with chaotic and dark themes for control and ultimate power. It put me as a reader, literally in the hot seat, as I got to see everything unfold, interweave, and how different parties vying for the same integral goal, while using every means possible to make each other bow down and ensure total domination.
My only real qualm about this first novel, is that there was a bit much going on in this one book. Made me a bit flustered with keeping up with all that was happening and stay on track with its hectic (yet complex) pacing.
Other than that, I felt that it was a great start, with the seeds planted, and now to see where they sow. Or what they reap.
Pretty interesting cliffhanger, I must say!
Callie and Lili are definitely forces to be reckoned with in the writing world! When alone they are awesome, but when put together, they are unbeatable! I can't wait for bk2!
Amazon US
Amazon UK
.:If you can't stand the heat, get the hell out of the kitchen:.
Hell’s Kitchen reminded me of Gypsy Brothers meets The Santini Brothers and a little Pepper Winters mixture.
Everything had a foreboding kind of feel, tinged in a growing entangled web that kept getting bigger and bigger.
The whole plot structure had a complex stand, integrated with chaotic and dark themes for control and ultimate power. It put me as a reader, literally in the hot seat, as I got to see everything unfold, interweave, and how different parties vying for the same integral goal, while using every means possible to make each other bow down and ensure total domination.
My only real qualm about this first novel, is that there was a bit much going on in this one book. Made me a bit flustered with keeping up with all that was happening and stay on track with its hectic (yet complex) pacing.
Other than that, I felt that it was a great start, with the seeds planted, and now to see where they sow. Or what they reap.
Pretty interesting cliffhanger, I must say!
Callie and Lili are definitely forces to be reckoned with in the writing world! When alone they are awesome, but when put together, they are unbeatable! I can't wait for bk2!
February 10, 2015
Now available to pre-order on iBooks!
http://bit.ly/HKpreorder
http://bit.ly/HKpreorder
March 4, 2015
"Pigs are an excellent way of clearing up a mess, though. They’ll eat anything. Accountants. Pimps. Prostitutes. Your progeny, if they crash a car on the George Washington Bridge and allow the teenaged daughter of your sworn enemy to escape."
Hell’s Kitchen
Theo and Sal Barbieri are brothers, tasked by their Mafioso father Roberto with a very clear purpose: kidnap Kaitlin McLaughlin. The beautiful daughter of Roberto’s Irish enemy. It’s high time Kaitlin was punished for her father’s sins—not to mention, her own.
And Operation: Kidnap Kaitlin is a roaring success… until it isn’t. When Kaitlin escapes into the busy streets of New York City, it’s a race against the clock to find her before Sal and Theo become the hunted.
Sounds kickass, yeah? It was.
When you meet Theo and Sal, you don't actually believe they're dangerous mafia sons. They're quite silly, if I'm honest. I mean, man, their plans aren't the best ones. I can come up with so much better, dark and violent plans. Just saying.
Anyhow, they're really funny. I enjoyed reading them a lot. They couldn't catch a break and the situations they got themselves into were the best!
Plus, it doesn't hurt they both are Italian hotties.
There are like 8 POVs in this book,
I was expecting something more. I mean, hello, mafia biz going on, right? But this book was
So, the kick ass part?
Guys, meet Gracie O'Conner.
Bodyguard extraordinaire.
Seriously, she's like wow.
You gotta love her, though. She's one tough bitch.
I absolutely loved her character. She gave me the chills everytime she thought about possible ways to escape from whenever she was.
It's only fair to say that the truly stars in this book were the ladies.
Then we have Scarlet Winchester, a former Hollywood star and junkie waitress. This chick got caught in the crossfires of the kidnap and what a hot mess she is. Although she's in great pain and she's an addict she still have this fire in her. Suicidal, yes. Sarcastic bitch? For sure. Kickass girl? Definitely.
That's the thing here: where the Barbieri brother fail to show badassery, these ladies show up and are awesome.
Kaitlin McLaughlin aka the girl who was supposed to be taken but you know how that turned out is really crazy. I mean, you wouldn't guess she's a murderer. I didn't. Bat shit crazy she was but a tiny part of really felt sorry for her at the end of her chapter, though.
Alright, so, why only three stars?
Overall it was a quick read and a really interesting book but that was it.
Well, I didn't like how short the book was. Things were getting really interesting and then it was over. Not gonna lie, that last part was pretty cool but still.
And I really wanted to see more things done the way Roberto does. I really liked that bastard.
I hope the next book's longer. Way longer and we get to see how these girls make Theo and Sal go nuts and also more blood.
March 10, 2015
HOLY SHIT BALLS BATMAN!!!!
+++ 5 ADRENALINE FILLED STARS!!! +++
Hell’s Kitchen was a witty, action packed book that will have you on the edge of your seat the entire time.
Immediately, on the first page we dive into the dark underbelly of the mafia and we’re introduced to the boss, Roberto Barbieri. He’s Italian and he’s mean, also known as “The Barber of Brooklyn”. Why was he given this nickname? Well he’s got this awesome technique of slitting people’s throats leaving behind a bloody mess ;)! Anyways, Roberto is a ruthless motherfucker who doesn't play around. I sure as hell would never cross him. He soon orders his two sons, Theo and Sal, to kidnap the daughter of his Irish rival, Paddy McLaughlin. Easy peasy right? NOT!
What starts out as ‘pick-Kaitlin-up-with-her-one-bodyguard’ instantly turns into a wild car chase. The clean cut plan goes to hell and crazily enough, more people get involved in “operation kidnap Kaitlin”. That’s when…
I knew this story would be dark, gritty, and twisted with elements of shock but I didn't expect it to also be funny with sexy banter. I loved Theo and Sal’s dry sense of humor and their sexy snarky mouths lol. In those moments, you really get to see Callie and Lili’s personalities shine through the pages.
What I loved most is getting a piece of every character and of course the amazing cameos by two very sexy and beloved characters; Zeth Mayfair (Blood & Roses series) and Jase Ross (Gypsy Brothers series). Their chapters were definitely considered bonuses and sent me into full fan-girl mode.
This is the start of a badass TEAM!!! Callie Hart and Lili St. Germain, together are a force to be reckon with. For I will be reading everything these ladies write; together or separate. You ladies are my two favorite AUSSIES and I love your faces!!
Blogger Note: It ends in cliffy that has you wanting book 2 STAT!
* ARC kindly provided for an honest review. *
+++ 5 ADRENALINE FILLED STARS!!! +++
Hell’s Kitchen was a witty, action packed book that will have you on the edge of your seat the entire time.
Immediately, on the first page we dive into the dark underbelly of the mafia and we’re introduced to the boss, Roberto Barbieri. He’s Italian and he’s mean, also known as “The Barber of Brooklyn”. Why was he given this nickname? Well he’s got this awesome technique of slitting people’s throats leaving behind a bloody mess ;)! Anyways, Roberto is a ruthless motherfucker who doesn't play around. I sure as hell would never cross him. He soon orders his two sons, Theo and Sal, to kidnap the daughter of his Irish rival, Paddy McLaughlin. Easy peasy right? NOT!
What starts out as ‘pick-Kaitlin-up-with-her-one-bodyguard’ instantly turns into a wild car chase. The clean cut plan goes to hell and crazily enough, more people get involved in “operation kidnap Kaitlin”. That’s when…
I knew this story would be dark, gritty, and twisted with elements of shock but I didn't expect it to also be funny with sexy banter. I loved Theo and Sal’s dry sense of humor and their sexy snarky mouths lol. In those moments, you really get to see Callie and Lili’s personalities shine through the pages.
What I loved most is getting a piece of every character and of course the amazing cameos by two very sexy and beloved characters; Zeth Mayfair (Blood & Roses series) and Jase Ross (Gypsy Brothers series). Their chapters were definitely considered bonuses and sent me into full fan-girl mode.
This is the start of a badass TEAM!!! Callie Hart and Lili St. Germain, together are a force to be reckon with. For I will be reading everything these ladies write; together or separate. You ladies are my two favorite AUSSIES and I love your faces!!
Blogger Note: It ends in cliffy that has you wanting book 2 STAT!
* ARC kindly provided for an honest review. *
March 5, 2015
Since I'm a big fan of Callie Hart's previous work (can't wait for another Rebel book BTW), I'll definitely read the next book in this series.
But I'll give this book only 3 stars for now because I expected more. Actually no, not more. Maybe less. Because sometimes less is more, right?
Maybe a bit less of comical, unreal situations, a bit less of forced, fake felt badassness... I don't know. Whatever. Too much or not...
And that's what counts, I guess.
As for guys in this book, OMG...
Except for Zeth and Jase, of course. But we get just a tiny bits of them.
To be honest the only part I really loved was the Zee and Sloane chapter! These two are probably one of my most favorite couples ever! <3<3<3
I don't know, maybe all I need is to get used to these whole bunch of new people that were introduced so fast in this relatively short book. (So far I could definitely connect to Scarlett. She felt more real then any other character)
One last thing. If you're planning to read this book as a first by any of these two authors, please don't. Go read Blood and Roses or Gypsy Brothers series first. Those are really great! IMO, a must read if you want to try this book.
May 12, 2017
Not for me, at all..
Rate: 1.5 stars.
Rate: 1.5 stars.
June 8, 2017
4 Crazy brothers STARS
Disfruté y me divertí mucho con este libro, pero también me decepcionó. Lo único que me hizo darle 4 estrellas fue el humor negro e involuntario de los protagonistas.
La historia comienza con Roberto Barbieri, jefe de la mafia italiana, mandando a sus hijos Sal y Theo a secuestrar a la hija del jefe de la mafia irlandesa.
Roberto fue mi personaje favorito, fue el único al que le creí lo cruel y sanguinario, inclusive con sus hijos.
Sal y Theo
No sé qué decir de ellos, me agradaron, pero no les creí nada que lo que decían. Se supone que son príncipes de la mafia, pero se comportan como novatos, realizan los errores más tontos y su personalidad es absurda. Lo único que los salva es lo atractivos que son y que tengo debilidad por los italianos.
Las mujeres de este libro, pfffff no tengo nada positivo que decir de ellas. La forma en que afrontan sus problemas es tan tonta que termina siendo divertido.
Desde hace tiempo tenía muchas ganas de leer una historia que se desarrollara en la cocina del infierno, y cuando vi este libro y que además era un proyecto de estas dos autoras, me emociono mucho.
Ambas autoras entrelazaron personajes de sus libros pasados, con esta historia.
Creo que fue lo peor que Lili Saint Germain pudo hacer, porque:
1- Nos muestra a Jase y Julie, después del final de la serie de Gypsy Brothers. Cuando en este momento ella está publicando la precuela de esa serie. Y aunque ella ya aclaro que Jase y Julie tendrán su propio libro en el 2016, me parece demasiado confuso seguirle la pista a cada suceso de manera cronológica. Mal jugado por parte de esta autora.
2- Es un libro corto, y meter estos 2 capítulos con los personajes de otros libros me pareció una pérdida de tiempo.
En conclusión: Pero este libro no fue nada lo que esperaba. Y no que sea malo, simplemente me sorprendió que una historia que se desarrolla en medio de una guerra de mafias, se tornara tan divertida. Además, al ser un proyecto de 2 autoras esperaba un libro un poco más largo.
Disfruté y me divertí mucho con este libro, pero también me decepcionó. Lo único que me hizo darle 4 estrellas fue el humor negro e involuntario de los protagonistas.
La historia comienza con Roberto Barbieri, jefe de la mafia italiana, mandando a sus hijos Sal y Theo a secuestrar a la hija del jefe de la mafia irlandesa.
Roberto fue mi personaje favorito, fue el único al que le creí lo cruel y sanguinario, inclusive con sus hijos.
Sal y Theo
No sé qué decir de ellos, me agradaron, pero no les creí nada que lo que decían. Se supone que son príncipes de la mafia, pero se comportan como novatos, realizan los errores más tontos y su personalidad es absurda. Lo único que los salva es lo atractivos que son y que tengo debilidad por los italianos.
Las mujeres de este libro, pfffff no tengo nada positivo que decir de ellas. La forma en que afrontan sus problemas es tan tonta que termina siendo divertido.
Desde hace tiempo tenía muchas ganas de leer una historia que se desarrollara en la cocina del infierno, y cuando vi este libro y que además era un proyecto de estas dos autoras, me emociono mucho.
Ambas autoras entrelazaron personajes de sus libros pasados, con esta historia.
Creo que fue lo peor que Lili Saint Germain pudo hacer, porque:
1- Nos muestra a Jase y Julie, después del final de la serie de Gypsy Brothers. Cuando en este momento ella está publicando la precuela de esa serie. Y aunque ella ya aclaro que Jase y Julie tendrán su propio libro en el 2016, me parece demasiado confuso seguirle la pista a cada suceso de manera cronológica. Mal jugado por parte de esta autora.
2- Es un libro corto, y meter estos 2 capítulos con los personajes de otros libros me pareció una pérdida de tiempo.
En conclusión: Pero este libro no fue nada lo que esperaba. Y no que sea malo, simplemente me sorprendió que una historia que se desarrolla en medio de una guerra de mafias, se tornara tan divertida. Además, al ser un proyecto de 2 autoras esperaba un libro un poco más largo.
March 21, 2015
HMPH! I do not even know where to begin. I was confused the whole book. From the 7 POV's (go to Allison ❤️Will Never Conquer Her TBR❤️'s review for a list of those POV's and a kick-ass review that says everything I felt.) to the plot that never developed, I was left lost and craving for more. I thought this was going to have grit, be dark and a thriller, um, nope! This was more a comedy, what with the silly internal dialogue and the women who overpowered the men, to the MOBSTERS who were not powerful enough, or strong enough to maintain control. I think it was all the sex they kept thinking about that kept them distracted. Because this was more of an erotic comedy than a mafia book.
I do believe I might know why this book didn't click with me (besides what I mentioned above), I haven't read any of the other books written by these authors yet (even though I do have two on my Kindle), so without the background knowledge of those involved, I was never able to connect with them. Each person/couple was just like a bomb going off in my head, shattered pieces flying everywhere, and I was never able to put them back together again. So my recommendation, if you haven't read Lili St. Germain Gypsy Brothers series and Callie Hart Blood & Roses series, then chances are great that you will be as confused as me, so read those books first!
**EDITED** After speaking with several friends who read this book and the two series above, it is not necessary to have read either series before this one. ***
*ARC provided in exchange for honest review.*
I do believe I might know why this book didn't click with me (besides what I mentioned above), I haven't read any of the other books written by these authors yet (even though I do have two on my Kindle), so without the background knowledge of those involved, I was never able to connect with them. Each person/couple was just like a bomb going off in my head, shattered pieces flying everywhere, and I was never able to put them back together again. So my recommendation, if you haven't read Lili St. Germain Gypsy Brothers series and Callie Hart Blood & Roses series, then chances are great that you will be as confused as me, so read those books first!
**EDITED** After speaking with several friends who read this book and the two series above, it is not necessary to have read either series before this one. ***
*ARC provided in exchange for honest review.*
March 1, 2015
Review: Surj
Lili Saint Germain is renowned for giving her readers raw, gritty, no holds barred stories that delve deep into the world of the criminal underbelly. Whether it's the world of the mafia or the MC, you know that you're going to need to don your big girl panties because the chances are, what you read will make your stomach roll, it will make you flinch and it will make you scared to turn the next page in fear of what you might find. Blood, guts and gore are a walk in the park for this author but they all fit seamlessly into the captivating stories she gives us. So when I heard she was partnering up with Callie Hart to give us a new series entitled "Hell's Kitchen," I was beyond excited. The title itself gave me the impression this was going to be yet another book that didn't fit into any one genre and I was right. Did it matter that it wasn't a conventional romance? Absolutely not because what I got was one crazy ass story line that packed quite the punch right from the word go. I was very quickly addicted to what unraveled before me and it wasn't difficult to fall in love with the characters I was introduced to.
Told from multiple POV, I was given the stories of several different characters. Was it confusing? Not at all. In fact, from Theo and Sal to Kaitlin and Gracie, Zeth and of course Jase, Juliette and Elliott, each of their journeys intrigued me. None of them were as I initially thought they were and I loved finding out their dirty little secrets, their hopes, dreams and fears and in some cases their worst nightmares. But the one thing that kept me reading like a crazed woman was the fact that all of these stories were somehow intertwined and I couldn't wait for it all to come to a head because I knew that it would be that, that would make for explosive reading.
Each of the characters definitely contributed something different to the story line but what I wasn't expecting with humour... as in laugh out loud humour. Theo and Sal should have been men that put the fear of god into me but instead, their antics had me rolling around with laughter. I should have despised them but to be honest, I kinda saw them as lovable rogues. And as for the women... they were feisty and full of sass, giving as good as they got. Girl power was definitely rife in this book that's for sure.
Hart Saint Germain have ensured that their writing was as visual as possible in "Hell's Kitchen" which meant this book played out like a film in my head. Some of the scenes were just brilliant... the fight scene between Gracie and Theo was written to perfection and then of course there was the whole undercurrent of sexual tension when Gracie was taken up to Theo's apartment. To be honest, I don't think I could pick a favourite scene because there were so many. That's how good the writing was in this book.
"Hell's Kitchen" was a fantastic introduction to what looks to be an amazing series. The ground work has been laid, the characters have been introduced. Now it's time to sit back and watch the fireworks start... because they will start, that's a definite and when they do, I have a feeling loyalties will be tested, blood will be spilled and death? Well that will be a given. but who will take a bullet? The mind boggles with ideas.
I could't rate "Hell's Kitchen" anything less than ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ A job well done to Hart Saint Germain. This partnership (which ever which way it has worked) has definitely been a successful one.
Lili Saint Germain is renowned for giving her readers raw, gritty, no holds barred stories that delve deep into the world of the criminal underbelly. Whether it's the world of the mafia or the MC, you know that you're going to need to don your big girl panties because the chances are, what you read will make your stomach roll, it will make you flinch and it will make you scared to turn the next page in fear of what you might find. Blood, guts and gore are a walk in the park for this author but they all fit seamlessly into the captivating stories she gives us. So when I heard she was partnering up with Callie Hart to give us a new series entitled "Hell's Kitchen," I was beyond excited. The title itself gave me the impression this was going to be yet another book that didn't fit into any one genre and I was right. Did it matter that it wasn't a conventional romance? Absolutely not because what I got was one crazy ass story line that packed quite the punch right from the word go. I was very quickly addicted to what unraveled before me and it wasn't difficult to fall in love with the characters I was introduced to.
Pigs are an excellent way of clearing up a mess. They'll eat anything. Accountants. Pimps. Prostitutes. Your progeny, if they crash a car on the George Washington bridge and allow the teenage daughter of your sworn enemy to escape.
Told from multiple POV, I was given the stories of several different characters. Was it confusing? Not at all. In fact, from Theo and Sal to Kaitlin and Gracie, Zeth and of course Jase, Juliette and Elliott, each of their journeys intrigued me. None of them were as I initially thought they were and I loved finding out their dirty little secrets, their hopes, dreams and fears and in some cases their worst nightmares. But the one thing that kept me reading like a crazed woman was the fact that all of these stories were somehow intertwined and I couldn't wait for it all to come to a head because I knew that it would be that, that would make for explosive reading.
People say drowning is a peaceful way to die. But I've been drowning for nine months, and I can tell you, there's nothing peaceful about clawing at the air in front of you every time you wake up in the morning unable to breathe, trying to stay afloat.
Each of the characters definitely contributed something different to the story line but what I wasn't expecting with humour... as in laugh out loud humour. Theo and Sal should have been men that put the fear of god into me but instead, their antics had me rolling around with laughter. I should have despised them but to be honest, I kinda saw them as lovable rogues. And as for the women... they were feisty and full of sass, giving as good as they got. Girl power was definitely rife in this book that's for sure.
"You aren't a damsel in distress sweetheart. you nearly killed me."
"You wanna go another round? I feel like I was a little off my game before. What with just having been in a car crash and all."
Hart Saint Germain have ensured that their writing was as visual as possible in "Hell's Kitchen" which meant this book played out like a film in my head. Some of the scenes were just brilliant... the fight scene between Gracie and Theo was written to perfection and then of course there was the whole undercurrent of sexual tension when Gracie was taken up to Theo's apartment. To be honest, I don't think I could pick a favourite scene because there were so many. That's how good the writing was in this book.
"Hell's Kitchen" was a fantastic introduction to what looks to be an amazing series. The ground work has been laid, the characters have been introduced. Now it's time to sit back and watch the fireworks start... because they will start, that's a definite and when they do, I have a feeling loyalties will be tested, blood will be spilled and death? Well that will be a given. but who will take a bullet? The mind boggles with ideas.
I've got that feeling in my gut. The one that tells me I'll be emptying my clip before the day's finished. Hopefully into somebody else, and not into my own skull.
I could't rate "Hell's Kitchen" anything less than ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ A job well done to Hart Saint Germain. This partnership (which ever which way it has worked) has definitely been a successful one.
February 26, 2015
★Complimentary Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review★
TITLE: Hell's Kitchen
SERIES: (Hell's Kitchen #1)
AUTHOR: Callie Hart & Lili St Germain
GENRE: Dark | Romance
RELEASE DATE: March 03RD 2015
MY RATING: ★★★★
What I loved about this book, even though it was short it did pack a lot within those pages and had me sitting on the edge of my seat wondering what the authors were going to throw at me next, I'd definitely love to see where they are going with this series..
I was gifted this ebook via the authors in exchange for an honest review and in keeping with my side of the bargain the reason why I am not 5 staring this book is for me (and this is only my opinion so please keep that in mind) it was hard keeping up with each and every character as each new chapter it would go backwards and forwards between them and for me it kind of lost the easy flow of the story..
It also states that this is a dark read I would typically say it's gritty but not dark but that all really depends on you as the reader and how often you take a walk on the dark side of books..
If you have followed Lili St Germain through her Seven Brothers series you will be thrilled to know that you are given a snippet from our most loved characters from that series, it felt like I was coming home after a long break and I just devoured the pages within this book where they appeared..
Will add more to my review later
TITLE: Hell's Kitchen
SERIES: (Hell's Kitchen #1)
AUTHOR: Callie Hart & Lili St Germain
GENRE: Dark | Romance
RELEASE DATE: March 03RD 2015
MY RATING: ★★★★
What I loved about this book, even though it was short it did pack a lot within those pages and had me sitting on the edge of my seat wondering what the authors were going to throw at me next, I'd definitely love to see where they are going with this series..
I was gifted this ebook via the authors in exchange for an honest review and in keeping with my side of the bargain the reason why I am not 5 staring this book is for me (and this is only my opinion so please keep that in mind) it was hard keeping up with each and every character as each new chapter it would go backwards and forwards between them and for me it kind of lost the easy flow of the story..
It also states that this is a dark read I would typically say it's gritty but not dark but that all really depends on you as the reader and how often you take a walk on the dark side of books..
If you have followed Lili St Germain through her Seven Brothers series you will be thrilled to know that you are given a snippet from our most loved characters from that series, it felt like I was coming home after a long break and I just devoured the pages within this book where they appeared..
Will add more to my review later
March 10, 2015
What just happened to my mind????
I loved every f*cking minute of it. Each chapter could have been it's own book. Callie and Lil wrote their asses off. By far the one of the best damn books of the year. There are 8 POV's and they nailed it. I thought I could tell who wrote what when, but easily lost my way. The prose was so engrossing. I can't go point by point because it was just too good. I love Mafia/MC/Badass boy style sagas. This book does not disappoint.
The end...
Is all I can say... start this series and you won't be sorry!!!
I loved every f*cking minute of it. Each chapter could have been it's own book. Callie and Lil wrote their asses off. By far the one of the best damn books of the year. There are 8 POV's and they nailed it. I thought I could tell who wrote what when, but easily lost my way. The prose was so engrossing. I can't go point by point because it was just too good. I love Mafia/MC/Badass boy style sagas. This book does not disappoint.
The end...
Is all I can say... start this series and you won't be sorry!!!
July 3, 2016
Can you imagine how pissed I was when I got to the end of this book???
Ha ha... cute and creepy at the same time huh?
This book was so freaking AMAZING and book 2 still hasn't been released!! I'm angry!!
Honestly, I'm not sure what I imagined or expected when I saw that these two fantastic authors would be collaborating on a new series. I just assumed it would be great. THEY DELIVERED!!
I got to see Zeth and Sloane. I saw Jace and Julz. And how hot were the additions of Sal and Theo Barbieri??? Those two brothers brought the funny and had me laughing my ass off.
There was action, suspense, drama, sex, sarcasm, badassness, hilarity, and all the other good sh!t that can be found in the works of these writers.
I guess I'll just patiently wait for the next book in the series.
XO
Ha ha... cute and creepy at the same time huh?
This book was so freaking AMAZING and book 2 still hasn't been released!! I'm angry!!
Honestly, I'm not sure what I imagined or expected when I saw that these two fantastic authors would be collaborating on a new series. I just assumed it would be great. THEY DELIVERED!!
I got to see Zeth and Sloane. I saw Jace and Julz. And how hot were the additions of Sal and Theo Barbieri??? Those two brothers brought the funny and had me laughing my ass off.
There was action, suspense, drama, sex, sarcasm, badassness, hilarity, and all the other good sh!t that can be found in the works of these writers.
I guess I'll just patiently wait for the next book in the series.
XO
February 14, 2017
Started off a bit rocky but I ended up liking the different chapters from different people.
March 4, 2015
It's LIVE!!!!!
Amazon http://amzn.to/1AxmIho
Amazon UK http://amzn.to/1F2cn1s
Amazon Aus http://bit.ly/1M3QwuC
iBooks Preorder http://bit.ly/iBooksHK (coming soon)
Sign up to the Hell's Kitchen newsletter: http://eepurl.com/beYVNr
**crazily smiled thru this**
They did it! My two favorite authors teamed up and delivered to their fans!!! If you have read either one of these authors, you know they go their own way. So it's no surprise that as I was reading this I had NO IDEA what to 'label' it.
It's so WITTY!!! But it's not a comedy. It's INTENSE! But it's not 'heavy'. It's SEXY!!! But it's not erotic. (Well, there is that one scene....and then that one....oh and then THAT one. So maybe it is lol) My point was (to myself), It's Hart Saint Germain and that's really all I need to know <3 It's BRILLIANT. And it's FUN. It reads like I'm watching it play out on television. (Now that would be too cool to see!!!)
You can tell when you're reading it, how much fun these two had writing for us and I can't wait to see where they take us on this journey w/the Barbieri Brothers :)) Sign me up to go ANYWHERE Theo is headed!
Theo and his younger brother Sal are tasked w/kidnapping one 17yr old girl. The problem, she's not your average teen girl (which I'm sure would be hell enough for them lol). No she's the daughter of their Irish enemy. And she expects ppl to 'bow down' to her every need. Everything that happens from page one had me completely engaged. The way all the characters were connected and then the AWESOME cameos of Jase and Zeth?? How they made perfect sense being in this book. LOVED!!!
Highly recommend this read!
The MOST asked question......
Do you have to have read both authors series to read Hell's Kitchen? NO. It's set up where you have the option to skip over Jase or Zeth chapters. Or if you're like me, you just read it and it doesn't bother you. In fact it's exciting when this happens to me, I love finding new couples in books and going back to read their stories. So there ya go!
HAPPY READING <3
Amazon http://amzn.to/1AxmIho
Amazon UK http://amzn.to/1F2cn1s
Amazon Aus http://bit.ly/1M3QwuC
iBooks Preorder http://bit.ly/iBooksHK (coming soon)
Sign up to the Hell's Kitchen newsletter: http://eepurl.com/beYVNr
**crazily smiled thru this**
They did it! My two favorite authors teamed up and delivered to their fans!!! If you have read either one of these authors, you know they go their own way. So it's no surprise that as I was reading this I had NO IDEA what to 'label' it.
It's so WITTY!!! But it's not a comedy. It's INTENSE! But it's not 'heavy'. It's SEXY!!! But it's not erotic. (Well, there is that one scene....and then that one....oh and then THAT one. So maybe it is lol) My point was (to myself), It's Hart Saint Germain and that's really all I need to know <3 It's BRILLIANT. And it's FUN. It reads like I'm watching it play out on television. (Now that would be too cool to see!!!)
You can tell when you're reading it, how much fun these two had writing for us and I can't wait to see where they take us on this journey w/the Barbieri Brothers :)) Sign me up to go ANYWHERE Theo is headed!
Theo and his younger brother Sal are tasked w/kidnapping one 17yr old girl. The problem, she's not your average teen girl (which I'm sure would be hell enough for them lol). No she's the daughter of their Irish enemy. And she expects ppl to 'bow down' to her every need. Everything that happens from page one had me completely engaged. The way all the characters were connected and then the AWESOME cameos of Jase and Zeth?? How they made perfect sense being in this book. LOVED!!!
Highly recommend this read!
The MOST asked question......
Do you have to have read both authors series to read Hell's Kitchen? NO. It's set up where you have the option to skip over Jase or Zeth chapters. Or if you're like me, you just read it and it doesn't bother you. In fact it's exciting when this happens to me, I love finding new couples in books and going back to read their stories. So there ya go!
HAPPY READING <3
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