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Dangerous Beauty #2

A Mafia Princess

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Carterina Anastacia Stone wakes up from the most terrifying experience of her life to find that her life has been totally flipped upside down. Nathan Salerno is her gorgeous fiancé she can't remember even meeting, and the mother she thought abandoned her, is demanding to be a part of her life.

Lies. Secrets. The truth. Each of them has a deadly consequence that seem to guarantee that Nathan and Carter will have to spend their entire lives looking over their shoulders. Carter feels like a walking target and Nathan's determined to make her feel safe again. While revelations threaten to pull them apart, Carter and Nathan fight hard to keep their love strong.

454 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 28, 2014

111 people are currently reading
232 people want to read

About the author

Michelle Hardin

6 books223 followers
Michelle Hardin is a dreamer from a town called Warrensburg in the Heart of the United States…Missouri…She is a graduate of Columbia College with a Bachelors in Psychology that she hugs close to her heart every night before bed. Michelle Hardin is a thinker. Her love and addiction to the romance genre began when she read 50 Shades of Grey on a dare. After she read that sexy little masterpiece, she immersed herself in everything Romance and became an avid reader.
For the longest month Michelle wondered if she could write a novel, if she could tell a captivating story. And one day-after her sister told her to just do it already-she decided to try it out. She started writing a story about a girl named Keira that just entered college and would eventually fall in love with the son of a mafia boss…then she scrapped it…She restarted and began a story about the tortured son of a Mafia boss that falls in love with a waitress from a small town…she scrapped that one too…finally she began Dangerous Beauty. The story started off as “the son of a Mafia boss meets girl”, then it became the son of a Mafia boss meets the Daughter of a hit-man.
And thus her passion for writing began.
Michelle spends her days writing novels and planning for the future. She enjoys creating stories that entertain, shock, and pull heart strings. Dangerous Beauty was the first chance she took at writing and she hopes with all her little heart that people enjoy reading her books as much as she enjoys writing them.

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5 stars
490 (69%)
4 stars
149 (20%)
3 stars
58 (8%)
2 stars
10 (1%)
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3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
Profile Image for Mspraise50.
1,597 reviews65 followers
September 1, 2014

This is Part II in this new Mafia IR story with Nathan “Russian” Salerno and Carterina Anastacia Steel. This is Nathan and Carter’s story along with Nathan’s Crew (Luca, Kyle, Mickey, Dante) and Anastacia Steel and Angelo Salerno they are Carter’s mother and Nathan’s father.

Part II picks up where Part I finished with Carter hurt and suffering memory loss due to the trauma she went through. The author very skilfully gets you to feel the tension and anxiety of all who love Carter when they realise she does not remember who they all are except for Kyle. However, when she hears Nathan calling her name..... the way in which the author describes this scene was extremely tender and moving and you will need to read it for yourself.

I want to share my thoughts about the book without giving you spoilers but it is difficult because I want to share the parts that really got to me. I will try.

Some readers told the author that in Part I they did not feel the story was a love story because the book did not speak to their relationship enough. Well in this book the author addresses that issue and spends a lot of time exploring Carter and Nathan’s relationship the up and the downs. What I also enjoyed about this aspect of the story is that at the same time the author draws the parallel between the relationship of the parents Anastacia and Angelo alongside their children and elements of the relationships are compared. I felt the love from Part I and I thought Carter and Nathan were totally in tune with one another.

There was less action in this story more information about Carter’s life and why her mum appeared to have abandoned her. We get to understand Anastacia a lot more. She had quite a few relationships with men who all knew each other. Anastacia’s life was complicated and very messy and that mess is now spilling over into Carter and Nathan’s lives. This leads to secrets, lies, betrayal, murder and vengeance! Some mysteries are solved and questions answered. Like the mystery surrounding Robert Steel is unravelled and that is a shocker. The fact that Anastacia is still married to her now enemy is another shocker. Carter’s true parentage is revealed that is another shocker although I had figured this out during the story. The only unanswered question for me is the mystery surrounding Carter and Kyle’s relationship. When Anastacia finds out that Kyle and Carter were not intimate in their relationship she was relieved. Why would she be relieved if Kyle is not her child and Carter is not related to Kyle in some way? I hope this mystery will be solved in Part III 3 of the series. Plus I want to know whether the person Carter meets in the castle who is trying to help her is her sibling!!

Carter comes back from the trauma of her shooting and shows us again why men and women need to be afraid of her as she becomes the Princess of the Mafia!!

Nathan shows why he is called The Russian and is to be feared when he delivers a beat down to someone who disrespects his mother’s memory. I loved that!! Nathan is going to start a war because folks who do not know what he is capable of have messed with his family and principally his wife. He is about to unleash all kinds of hell on the world and I cannot wait to read about it.

I took my time reading this book I did not want to miss anything in my haste to finish it. The story was an engrossing page turner which I did not want to end. I still feel that this is one of the best mafia series that I have read. I love, love that the leading lady is as bad-ass as her husband and is working right alongside him and is not pretending that she does not know what her husband does for a living because she is taking care of business right alongside him.

Great series I would highly recommend this book and series! Definitely a 5 star plus read. I cannot wait for book 3!!!

Well done Patrice Hardin you did it again.


Profile Image for Musings of A Romance Junkie.
311 reviews92 followers
January 18, 2015
Ok mafia fans, get your 1-click fingers ready because this installment of Dangerous Beauty does not disappoint!

I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of this story, and let me tell you, Michelle Hardin has stepped her game up! She gives us classic mafia drama: Complex, compelling characters, steamy romance, over-the-top action, witty dialogue, and a closet full of secrets and lies!

If you've read part 1 (which you definitely should before even attempting to read part 2), you know it ended with the mysterious Anastacia Stone revealing herself to the world and to her daughter. Part 2 bring us the story of Anastacia, who she is and how she came to be the BAB that she is known, loved, and hated for. She is a very complex woman torn between upholding her mental and emotional toughness and being the soft-hearted, loving mother to the daughter she's vowed to protect at all costs-even at the risk of her daughter hating her for life. We also get to know more about Angelo Salerno, mob boss numero uno, father of Nathan, keeper of secrets, and the love of someone's life.

Nathan and Carterina are the real stars here, don't get it twisted. I have fallen in love with this couple. To be as young a they are, Nate and Carter are so deeply in love and have their sh*t together better than their parents' Angelo and Anastacia do. While we see them develop as a power couple, it is also so enjoyable to see that father/son, mother/daughter tandem between the couple and their parents unfold in this story.

This story has so many delicious plot twists. that you'll be like WAAAT?! I'm just so pleased with the overall development of these characters. I CANNOT wait for part 3 because I know it is going to be off the chain! FIVE STARS!
Profile Image for Elle1986.
456 reviews31 followers
November 26, 2015
Wow oh wow...

Okay this is going to be quick because I need to move on to the next book. I liked this book, I of course enjoyed it a little better than the first one. The only thing that bugged me was carter and her mother's interaction sometimes, it felt like she was a small child the way that her mother spoke to her and the way she responded.. yeah that bugged the hell out of me... not that she couldn't show respect but her responses were that of a 12 year old... GLADLY that didn't last and seemed to only to have been after ana and angelo fussed.

Other than that I loved the book, the ending has my mouth agaped... so I am off to the next one.

Signing off... yeah no sign off I don't have time need to read! LOL

Profile Image for DeeReads.
2,284 reviews
September 17, 2018
Loving this series... so many twists and turns in DB 2 that kept me on the edge of my seat. Loved how Nathan and Carter's relationship is getting stronger even with Carter's missing mother, Anastacia Stone.

I strongly recommend the series if you love gritty mafia stories with great detail!


5 DB stars *****
Profile Image for °BeauutiLovve.
427 reviews3 followers
August 29, 2014
When I first started reading,this came to mind "Set Me Free" by Leela James because of the relationship with Nat mom and dad. Now Carter in the state she was in "Simplythings" by Miguel was playin in my mind then it went to "Fall For You" by Leela James then I though of "Better" by Chriserrs Michelle. The whole time while I was reading I had a smile on my face, sad a little and I laugh. Ana & Angelo " Think about You" played because of the love still there " Tell Me You Love Me" Leela James, "Rollercoaster" by Toni & Babyface, "Love and War" by Anthony Hamilton also Tamar played too, They were too much together.Now when the drama unfolded and the depression kicked in "Talk to Me" by Mary J Blige played then my went to "Down on Love" by Kelly Rowland. I really can keep going because this book was to good, I loved everything about this book, so much came out some lies, some truths. I can't wait for part 3. Its going to be great, I know it. Great job Michelle buy the books.........I hope we get part 3 by Christmas
Profile Image for Sophia.
284 reviews7 followers
September 20, 2014
WHAT THE ACTUAL F**K!! This book gets better and better!! The twist and turns!! The secrets and lies!! Michelle Hardin you are killin me!! My heart can't take anymore. Excuse my language.
Profile Image for Rachel Wheeler.
1,615 reviews11 followers
April 10, 2017
Amazing read!!!

Just amazing!!! Typically 2nd books tend to be boring but so far this Series is non stop go go go. I can't believe how great this series is so far! I love the secondary cast and all the what ifs and I can't believe that" moments! The endings have been cliffhangers so be prepared to read the next book immediately! I can barely take the time to write this before I begin the next book! What laundry? What kids? I have a job? LOL not until I finish these books!
Profile Image for Tashia.
23 reviews
September 25, 2014
MINOR SPOILER ALERT!
This series is nothing like any of the other mob/mafia novels I have read. I’m reading more mob/mafia novels; they seem to be my favorite now. Most of the books I’ve read, whether the guy was in the mob or he was a hit man, there’s always a woman who becomes a victim and she wants no part in that lifestyle. Books such as the Double Dragon series by Violette Dubrinsky and the Disastrous Series by E.L Montes both parties no longer wanted to live that kind of life. Books such as Nikolai (Her Russian Protector) by Roxie Rivera is an example of the man no longer wishes to continue, but doesn’t have much of choice and the wife stands by him although it can be difficult. The Dangerous Beauty series is the total opposite of all those books combined. Both parties come from dangerous families. I love Carter; she isn’t your typical mob girlfriend turned wife. Like the other female characters, she too needs protection. However, she can defend herself as well. She has skills no other woman I have read about has and she enjoys doing what she does.
I can’t wait for the third one to come out because based on previous experience; I’ve read books where the third book took forever to come out. If I paid attention, I would have made note that the third one wasn’t out yet. I have a rule now that I made for myself to save the trouble of growing impatient after reading the first book or first two books in a series, lol. No matter how good the preview and the book reviews are if the continuation or the full series as a whole isn’t out yet, I’ll save the excitement for when all the books are available to purchase, lol.
Profile Image for Chella.
121 reviews
November 4, 2014
Carterina begins to make a name for herself as not only the wife to "The Russian" but as a Mafia princess. Feared and lusted by men & envied by women, she works side by side with the Salerno family as they continue to build their empire. Now the mother she's never known has returned and is asking to be a part of her life. Carter has always known how to survive, never how to forgive. Nathan will do anything to shield his beautiful rose from those who hunt her. Protecting her is his priority but in doing so, information kept from Carter become secrets Nathan doesn't share. She's had a life full of them and no matter how much love she has for Nathan, she's simply not having it. Between the testy waters of their new marriage & attempting to let go of the past, Carterina finds there's more secrets about her life that haven't been told. And with these new secrets, she has now moved to the top of a very high list. A list meant for those who actually mean her harm.
Profile Image for Hilda.
116 reviews10 followers
February 16, 2015
The term "and the plot thickens..." is a severe understatement in this series. I enjoyed it but will have to go back for a re-read to make sure I know who's who, what and where for book 3. This series is filled with many twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge. When you think you know what's next, there is another surprise. This happens throughout the book, not just the end. Kudos to a young author whose creative imagination keeps us guessing. I enjoyed book 1 more than book 2, but can't wait for book 3. There are many untold stories and questions that I imagine would require a book on Ana's life from her point of view. I would welcome that especially as I question the brotherhood/friendship of Angelo and Cesare pertaining to Ana. If I was Angelo, I'd be pissed, then and now. PS I love the Originals but wish there was a woman in there somewhere.
Profile Image for Catarina Swartz.
215 reviews1 follower
December 7, 2014
Well what can I say, Michelle Hardin has written a masterpiece, that leaves you intrigued and wanting more. In Part 2, just as you think Nathan and Carter/Caterina has found their Happy ever after, they are ripped apart again.

If you love a book that is filled with mystery, suspense blood and guts you will love this series.

You will be happy and sad, you'll meet new characters, and you will continue to love Nathan and Carter/Caterina.

Book 1 leaves you shocked by the appearance of Carter's Mother, book 2 is filled with more twists and more pain. You will be left hanging for more. I hope Michelle Hardin doesn't take long to release Part 3, and I hope the bond and love that Nathan and Carter/Caterina can survive.

I gave this book 5 stars and and really love this series so far. It would be a series I would recommend to those who love a good mafia love story.
Profile Image for Bailey Miller.
1 review1 follower
February 6, 2015
I rarely ever come across a second book in a series that is even as amazing (EVEN BETTER!) than the first book. Sooooooo much happened in this book, its like back to back craziness!

I am writing this review after this my 4th time reading this book. That may sound crazy to some, but if you've read this book, you know that there's so much going on that you have to read it multiple times to fully take everything in.

Ms. Michelle is a genius. No other Mafia Romance series can compare. A must read :) <3
Profile Image for Kelly .
406 reviews10 followers
July 12, 2018
AWESOME!

I love this couple!! He's hot & badass....she's hot & badass and together purely explosive! They love each other totally....faults and all.

Now mama Ana is a hot mess...who hasn't she slept with?! She totally loves Carterina so that's in her favor....and she's badass as well. A therapist can make bank with this group, though!

I love this story, cliffhanger and all! A definite must read...kudos to the author!
Profile Image for Lucretia.
393 reviews
September 3, 2014
The story line was awesome, the plot awesome, the connections awesome, the emotion awesome, and the love awesome. One of the things I loved about this book was that the men where all gorgeous and they all had a strength. I adored the names of the characters it was so on point. It was amazing to see how these feared killers loved their families freely and unconditionally. This was one of my favorite series and I can’t wait for book 3. The SHOCKS just keep coming!!!!!!
6 reviews
September 11, 2014
Great Book

This book is so awesome. I rated part 1 and I continue to be impressed with this writer, she is so talented. Again I can't wait for the next part 3rd installment. Continue to bring it like this and Lord only knows what good things will bring. Thank you and hurry up with the next part.
Profile Image for Ragatnia Clara.
Author 1 book24 followers
September 13, 2014
Book 1 easily got me captivated and the characters never failed to engage. This same applied on book 2 which I didn't expect to come out quite faster than any other sequel I'd been waiting for. So yes, after reading the book 2, I can't wait to read the final installment!

Profile Image for Debbie.
25 reviews
September 20, 2014
ROLL ON BOOK 3!! I can hardly wait for the next sequel. I was hoping this book would be just as good or on par with the first one. Michelle Hardin did not disappoint. As with the first story I didn't want this book to end.
Profile Image for Lynnai .
626 reviews
July 7, 2016
Mafia princess

Book two of this series was even better than the first. I couldn't put it down. There was so much suspense and drama. The information about the Steele's, Stone's, and Ana's pasts was a surprise. Can't wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Tracey .
32 reviews
April 21, 2017
Excellent story telling.

Highly recommended. The author keeps you engaged from the beginning to the end. Each character has layers of secrets. The twists and turns in the story are riveting. I look forward to completing the saga.
Profile Image for kimberly m. laughlin.
2 reviews
August 30, 2014
Awesome

I am sooo hooked on this suspense! The drama is way better than watching on tv. When is the next book out?
Profile Image for JemmaT.
414 reviews11 followers
September 1, 2014
Can I say wow!!!!

I could not ....no I refused to out this book until it was done....Loved it can't wait for the next one
Profile Image for Erika.
238 reviews6 followers
September 4, 2014
I am upset. Part 2 was soooo good! But I have to wait for part 3! I hope it will be out soon. Definitely a page turner. I love all of the characters in this story. So many twists and turns.
Profile Image for Mmoseley.
76 reviews3 followers
September 14, 2014
Omg this book was so good! I can't wait until book 3 !
Profile Image for Cammyjoe.
1,429 reviews8 followers
August 10, 2019
Fantabulous!!!

Lawwwwd , that was delicious!! My, ...! I can't get enough of this series, so much twist and turns, so much mysteries and delicious drama. The love between Nathan, (her Bubby) and his Carterina is beyond words, they were destined to be together and absolutely NO ONE will stop them. Lot of enemies have tried ... for different reasons, but the day of reckoning ...

Incredible characters and the storyline is awesome.
Sorry, book 3 is waiting for me!! At revoir!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews

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