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Branded Bloodlines #0.5
The Sacrifice
A Mafia Romance Novella
An heiress lives by one rule: do what needs to be done.
To secure my family’s safety and future, I agree to marry a Beauchamp with one condition: I pick the brother.
It won’t be Carter, the oldest, the golden boy. It won’t be Tatum, the youngest with the stop-traffic looks, either.
It will be Khai, the outcast brother condemned to the shadows after being injured in a devastating car accident five years ago. As the outsider in my own family, I get him, and a connection is essential for my grand plan. The wedding must happen immediately. There’s no time to waste. And no more nurses and hospitals. I'll be Khai’s sole caretaker, the one to help him regain his health—whatever it takes—because in the end, I’ll need him strong.
If Khai protects me, so what? He’s a means to an end. If he cares for me more than anyone ever has, it means nothing. It can’t, because loving Khai will cost me what I want most: revenge.
An heiress lives by one rule: do what needs to be done.
To secure my family’s safety and future, I agree to marry a Beauchamp with one condition: I pick the brother.
It won’t be Carter, the oldest, the golden boy. It won’t be Tatum, the youngest with the stop-traffic looks, either.
It will be Khai, the outcast brother condemned to the shadows after being injured in a devastating car accident five years ago. As the outsider in my own family, I get him, and a connection is essential for my grand plan. The wedding must happen immediately. There’s no time to waste. And no more nurses and hospitals. I'll be Khai’s sole caretaker, the one to help him regain his health—whatever it takes—because in the end, I’ll need him strong.
If Khai protects me, so what? He’s a means to an end. If he cares for me more than anyone ever has, it means nothing. It can’t, because loving Khai will cost me what I want most: revenge.
171 pages, ebook
Published September 7, 2026
About the author
Deena LeVon
3 books34 followersAward-winning dark, mafia, and dystopian romance author Deena LeVon writes gritty, morally-gray characters who may or may not be the good guys. Her debut novel, THE PRODIGAL, releases October 20, 2026, following her prequel novella, THE SACRIFICE, with more high-stakes love stories and anti-hero chaos on the way.
Deena's pre-published manuscripts have won multiple Maggie Awards from Georgia Romance Writers, with additional finalist honors from RWA's Vivian Award and Sisters in Crime's Eleanor Taylor Bland Award.
She grew up in Nova Scotia and now lives in Atlanta with her family. Deena is a member of Sisters in Crime, the Atlanta Writers Club, and Georgia Romance Writers.
Deena's pre-published manuscripts have won multiple Maggie Awards from Georgia Romance Writers, with additional finalist honors from RWA's Vivian Award and Sisters in Crime's Eleanor Taylor Bland Award.
She grew up in Nova Scotia and now lives in Atlanta with her family. Deena is a member of Sisters in Crime, the Atlanta Writers Club, and Georgia Romance Writers.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
September 10, 2026
This book put me in my villain-romance era. The spice is chef's kiss, the danger is real, and Khai's brooding, sexy energy lives rent-free in my head now. If you love dark mafia romance with a heroine who can hold her own and a hero worth the angst, this is the book!
October 28, 2026
"𝑰'𝒎 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝑳𝒖𝒏𝒂. 𝑮𝒆𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒑𝒂𝒚."
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
A MAFIA NOVELLA?!
SAY LESS.
I’M SEATED.
MY KINDLE IS CHARGED.
AND MY MORALS HAVE OFFICIALLY LEFT THE BUILDING.
DEENA LEVON, PLEASE FEED MY QUESTIONABLE LITERARY HABITS.
AND BABES?
SHE DELIVERED.
Four stars, two peppers, and one complaint that I will be submitting directly to the fictional mafia headquarters.
IT. WAS. TOO. SHORT.
I NEED MORE.
MORE MAFIA POLITICS.
MORE DANGEROUS MEN.
MORE ARRANGED MARRIAGE NONSENSE.
MORE OF THE BROODING, EMOTIONALLY GUARDED MAN STANDING IN THE CORNER LOOKING LIKE HE’D RATHER BE ANYWHERE ELSE.
Because apparently that’s my type.
SHOCKING. NOBODY SAW THAT COMING. 😈
Let’s meet Luna Pierce.
Our girl has spent years feeling like an outsider within her own family.
Never quite good enough.
Never quite valued.
Always fighting for the acceptance she should never have had to earn.
OH, LOVELY. ANOTHER FAMILY THAT NEEDS A GROUP THERAPY SESSION AND A LENGTHY LECTURE ABOUT BASIC HUMAN DECENCY.
But when violence tears through her family and her brother is taken, Luna finds herself facing an impossible choice.
She needs to secure his freedom.
And the solution?
A marriage alliance with the Beauchamp family.
AH, YES. MAFIA DIPLOMACY.
BECAUSE WHY SIGN A PEACE TREATY WHEN YOU CAN SIMPLY MARRY SOMEONE OFF?!
Honestly, the entire organized crime community could use a workshop on conflict resolution.
But Luna isn’t about to surrender every bit of control.
If she’s going to marry a Beauchamp, she has one condition.
SHE CHOOSES THE BROTHER.
And does she choose Carter, the polished golden boy?
NOPE.
What about Tatum, the dangerously handsome younger brother?
ABSOLUTELY NOT.
SHE WANTS KHAI.
The outcast.
The brother who’s been living in the shadows since a devastating car accident changed his life five years earlier.
The man everyone seems to have underestimated.
LUNA. DARLING. YOU REALLY WALKED INTO A MAFIA NEGOTIATION AND STARTED SELECTING A HUSBAND LIKE YOU WERE RECRUITING YOUR FAVORITE MORALLY QUESTIONABLE BOOK BOYFRIEND.
AND I SUPPORT YOUR CONFIDENCE.
Khai Beauchamp has endured more than his share of hardship.
After his accident, he’s withdrawn from much of his family’s world.
He’s guarded.
He’s isolated.
And he isn’t exactly expecting a beautiful woman to announce that she intends to marry him.
SIR, YOU WERE MINDING YOUR BUSINESS AND SUDDENLY BECAME SOMEONE’S ENTIRE MARRIAGE STRATEGY.
I WOULD HAVE QUESTIONS TOO.
Because why him?
What does Luna actually want?
And what is she hiding behind that determined exterior?
OH, KHAI. BABY.
YOU’RE ABOUT TO FIND OUT THAT YOUR NEW WIFE HAS MORE SECRETS THAN A GOVERNMENT INTELLIGENCE AGENCY.
And THAT is what makes this setup so entertaining.
Luna isn’t simply looking for a husband.
She’s playing a much bigger game.
Revenge is driving her decisions, and marrying Khai is part of a plan she isn’t ready to reveal.
I LOVE A WOMAN WITH AMBITION.
IS THE AMBITION SLIGHTLY CONCERNING?
ABSOLUTELY.
BUT WE’RE READING MAFIA ROMANCE.
NORMAL DECISION-MAKING WAS NEVER PART OF THE PACKAGE.
What I especially appreciated was the connection between Luna and Khai.
They’re both outsiders in their own ways.
Both have experienced rejection and disappointment from the people who should have supported them.
And there’s something compelling about two people who have been overlooked beginning to recognize each other’s worth.
Khai isn’t simply a damaged man waiting for someone to fix him.
His accident has shaped his circumstances, but it hasn’t erased his intelligence, his strength, or his ability to make his own choices.
AND I LOVE THAT LUNA DOESN’T IMMEDIATELY DISMISS HIM THE WAY OTHERS HAVE.
Their arrangement may begin as a strategy, but there’s genuine potential for something deeper.
Luna wants to help Khai regain his independence.
Khai begins looking out for Luna.
And somewhere between the complicated family politics and their increasingly questionable marriage arrangement…
THESE TWO START CARING ABOUT EACH OTHER.
OH, HOW INCONVENIENT.
Because feelings are a VERY serious complication when your entire plan depends on keeping secrets.
LUNA, BABES. YOU CANNOT PUT REVENGE ON THE WEDDING REGISTRY AND EXPECT THE MARRIAGE TO REMAIN EMOTIONALLY UNCOMPLICATED.
But that’s the delicious tension of it all.
The attraction.
The uncertainty.
The growing protectiveness.
And the knowledge that when Luna’s secrets finally come to light, everything could change.
And Khai?
OH, I DO LOVE A QUIETLY DANGEROUS MAN.
Not necessarily the loudest person in the room.
Not the one constantly reminding everyone how powerful he is.
But the one who observes, understands, and becomes absolutely formidable when someone he cares about is threatened.
THE BROODING ONES ALWAYS GET ME.
Add in the fact that Khai is devoted to his dog?
BABES.
A morally gray mafia man who loves his dog?!
THAT IS NOT FAIR PLAY.
HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO MAINTAIN EVEN A SHRED OF OBJECTIVITY?!
And the chemistry between Luna and Khai was another highlight.
Two peppers, plenty of attraction, and that delicious arranged-marriage tension where neither person is entirely sure how much of the relationship is strategy and how much is becoming real.
THE MARRIAGE MAY BE BUSINESS, DARLINGS, BUT THE FEELINGS HAVE CLEARLY NOT READ THE CONTRACT.
I also enjoyed the mystery surrounding the families.
Because there are secrets everywhere.
Old grievances.
Hidden motives.
Dangerous alliances.
And the ever-present question of who can actually be trusted.
ANSWER: PROBABLY NOBODY.
WELCOME TO ORGANIZED CRIME.
The Keepers add another layer of uncertainty, and the power struggles surrounding the Beauchamp and Pierce families give the story plenty of intrigue.
I appreciated that the romance wasn’t the only thing happening.
Luna has her own motivations.
Khai has his own struggles.
And the larger conflict creates consequences beyond whether these two will fall in love.
ALTHOUGH, FOR THE RECORD, I WOULD VERY MUCH LIKE THEM TO FALL IN LOVE.
THANK YOU.
Now, here’s where my complaint comes in.
DEENA.
WE NEED TO DISCUSS THE LENGTH.
Because this story had SO MUCH POTENTIAL FOR MORE.
The complicated family dynamics.
Khai’s past.
Luna’s revenge.
The political maneuvering.
The development of their relationship.
BABES, YOU CANNOT HAND ME ALL OF THESE DELICIOUS INGREDIENTS AND THEN ANNOUNCE THAT DINNER IS OVER.
I WAS STILL EATING.
I wanted more time with these characters.
More opportunities to explore their individual histories.
More moments where the emotional connection could develop alongside the suspense.
And more room for the aftermath of all those dangerous decisions.
That’s really the difficulty with a novella like this.
The shorter format keeps everything moving, but when the characters and premise are interesting, I inevitably start wishing the author had given them a full-length novel.
MY GREED KNOWS NO BOUNDS WHEN IT COMES TO FICTIONAL MAFIA MEN.
And I refuse to apologize.
Still, I appreciate how much Deena managed to pack into a shorter story.
There was romance.
Danger.
Family conflict.
Revenge.
And a hero whose quiet intensity made him especially compelling.
FINAL VERDICT:
Four stars and two peppers for a deliciously entertaining mafia novella featuring an arranged marriage, a determined heroine, an overlooked hero, and enough dangerous family secrets to keep everyone suspicious.
The Sacrifice gave me so many things I love about mafia romance: questionable alliances, hidden agendas, protective instincts, and two characters who have every reason to guard their hearts.
Luna is smart, determined, and willing to make difficult decisions to achieve her goals.
Khai is guarded, intriguing, and much more than the man his family has underestimated.
Together, they make a fascinating pair.
My only real complaint?
I WANTED MORE OF THEM.
More development. More intrigue. More time in their wonderfully complicated world.
Deena LeVon, you absolutely have my attention.
Now, Luna?
YOU REALLY WALKED INTO A ROOM FULL OF MAFIA HEIRS, PICKED THE MOST BROODING ONE, AND ANNOUNCED HE WAS GOING TO BE YOUR HUSBAND.
ICONIC BEHAVIOR.
And Khai?
SIR, YOUR NEW WIFE HAS A REVENGE PLAN, A COLLECTION OF SECRETS, AND ABSOLUTELY NO INTENTION OF PLAYING NICE.
CONGRATULATIONS ON THE MARRIAGE.
YOU TWO ARE GOING TO BE EVERYONE’S PROBLEM.
FOUR STARS. TWO PEPPERS. AND ONE READER DEMANDING THAT THE NEXT MORALLY GRAY MAFIA MAN RECEIVE A CONSIDERABLY LARGER PAGE COUNT. 🖤🔪😈
Tropes: Dark Mafia Romance • Arranged Marriage • Marriage of Convenience • Revenge Plot • Morally Gray MMC • Protective Hero • Injured MMC • Family Betrayal • Forced Proximity • Touch Her and Die
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
A MAFIA NOVELLA?!
SAY LESS.
I’M SEATED.
MY KINDLE IS CHARGED.
AND MY MORALS HAVE OFFICIALLY LEFT THE BUILDING.
DEENA LEVON, PLEASE FEED MY QUESTIONABLE LITERARY HABITS.
AND BABES?
SHE DELIVERED.
Four stars, two peppers, and one complaint that I will be submitting directly to the fictional mafia headquarters.
IT. WAS. TOO. SHORT.
I NEED MORE.
MORE MAFIA POLITICS.
MORE DANGEROUS MEN.
MORE ARRANGED MARRIAGE NONSENSE.
MORE OF THE BROODING, EMOTIONALLY GUARDED MAN STANDING IN THE CORNER LOOKING LIKE HE’D RATHER BE ANYWHERE ELSE.
Because apparently that’s my type.
SHOCKING. NOBODY SAW THAT COMING. 😈
Let’s meet Luna Pierce.
Our girl has spent years feeling like an outsider within her own family.
Never quite good enough.
Never quite valued.
Always fighting for the acceptance she should never have had to earn.
OH, LOVELY. ANOTHER FAMILY THAT NEEDS A GROUP THERAPY SESSION AND A LENGTHY LECTURE ABOUT BASIC HUMAN DECENCY.
But when violence tears through her family and her brother is taken, Luna finds herself facing an impossible choice.
She needs to secure his freedom.
And the solution?
A marriage alliance with the Beauchamp family.
AH, YES. MAFIA DIPLOMACY.
BECAUSE WHY SIGN A PEACE TREATY WHEN YOU CAN SIMPLY MARRY SOMEONE OFF?!
Honestly, the entire organized crime community could use a workshop on conflict resolution.
But Luna isn’t about to surrender every bit of control.
If she’s going to marry a Beauchamp, she has one condition.
SHE CHOOSES THE BROTHER.
And does she choose Carter, the polished golden boy?
NOPE.
What about Tatum, the dangerously handsome younger brother?
ABSOLUTELY NOT.
SHE WANTS KHAI.
The outcast.
The brother who’s been living in the shadows since a devastating car accident changed his life five years earlier.
The man everyone seems to have underestimated.
LUNA. DARLING. YOU REALLY WALKED INTO A MAFIA NEGOTIATION AND STARTED SELECTING A HUSBAND LIKE YOU WERE RECRUITING YOUR FAVORITE MORALLY QUESTIONABLE BOOK BOYFRIEND.
AND I SUPPORT YOUR CONFIDENCE.
Khai Beauchamp has endured more than his share of hardship.
After his accident, he’s withdrawn from much of his family’s world.
He’s guarded.
He’s isolated.
And he isn’t exactly expecting a beautiful woman to announce that she intends to marry him.
SIR, YOU WERE MINDING YOUR BUSINESS AND SUDDENLY BECAME SOMEONE’S ENTIRE MARRIAGE STRATEGY.
I WOULD HAVE QUESTIONS TOO.
Because why him?
What does Luna actually want?
And what is she hiding behind that determined exterior?
OH, KHAI. BABY.
YOU’RE ABOUT TO FIND OUT THAT YOUR NEW WIFE HAS MORE SECRETS THAN A GOVERNMENT INTELLIGENCE AGENCY.
And THAT is what makes this setup so entertaining.
Luna isn’t simply looking for a husband.
She’s playing a much bigger game.
Revenge is driving her decisions, and marrying Khai is part of a plan she isn’t ready to reveal.
I LOVE A WOMAN WITH AMBITION.
IS THE AMBITION SLIGHTLY CONCERNING?
ABSOLUTELY.
BUT WE’RE READING MAFIA ROMANCE.
NORMAL DECISION-MAKING WAS NEVER PART OF THE PACKAGE.
What I especially appreciated was the connection between Luna and Khai.
They’re both outsiders in their own ways.
Both have experienced rejection and disappointment from the people who should have supported them.
And there’s something compelling about two people who have been overlooked beginning to recognize each other’s worth.
Khai isn’t simply a damaged man waiting for someone to fix him.
His accident has shaped his circumstances, but it hasn’t erased his intelligence, his strength, or his ability to make his own choices.
AND I LOVE THAT LUNA DOESN’T IMMEDIATELY DISMISS HIM THE WAY OTHERS HAVE.
Their arrangement may begin as a strategy, but there’s genuine potential for something deeper.
Luna wants to help Khai regain his independence.
Khai begins looking out for Luna.
And somewhere between the complicated family politics and their increasingly questionable marriage arrangement…
THESE TWO START CARING ABOUT EACH OTHER.
OH, HOW INCONVENIENT.
Because feelings are a VERY serious complication when your entire plan depends on keeping secrets.
LUNA, BABES. YOU CANNOT PUT REVENGE ON THE WEDDING REGISTRY AND EXPECT THE MARRIAGE TO REMAIN EMOTIONALLY UNCOMPLICATED.
But that’s the delicious tension of it all.
The attraction.
The uncertainty.
The growing protectiveness.
And the knowledge that when Luna’s secrets finally come to light, everything could change.
And Khai?
OH, I DO LOVE A QUIETLY DANGEROUS MAN.
Not necessarily the loudest person in the room.
Not the one constantly reminding everyone how powerful he is.
But the one who observes, understands, and becomes absolutely formidable when someone he cares about is threatened.
THE BROODING ONES ALWAYS GET ME.
Add in the fact that Khai is devoted to his dog?
BABES.
A morally gray mafia man who loves his dog?!
THAT IS NOT FAIR PLAY.
HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO MAINTAIN EVEN A SHRED OF OBJECTIVITY?!
And the chemistry between Luna and Khai was another highlight.
Two peppers, plenty of attraction, and that delicious arranged-marriage tension where neither person is entirely sure how much of the relationship is strategy and how much is becoming real.
THE MARRIAGE MAY BE BUSINESS, DARLINGS, BUT THE FEELINGS HAVE CLEARLY NOT READ THE CONTRACT.
I also enjoyed the mystery surrounding the families.
Because there are secrets everywhere.
Old grievances.
Hidden motives.
Dangerous alliances.
And the ever-present question of who can actually be trusted.
ANSWER: PROBABLY NOBODY.
WELCOME TO ORGANIZED CRIME.
The Keepers add another layer of uncertainty, and the power struggles surrounding the Beauchamp and Pierce families give the story plenty of intrigue.
I appreciated that the romance wasn’t the only thing happening.
Luna has her own motivations.
Khai has his own struggles.
And the larger conflict creates consequences beyond whether these two will fall in love.
ALTHOUGH, FOR THE RECORD, I WOULD VERY MUCH LIKE THEM TO FALL IN LOVE.
THANK YOU.
Now, here’s where my complaint comes in.
DEENA.
WE NEED TO DISCUSS THE LENGTH.
Because this story had SO MUCH POTENTIAL FOR MORE.
The complicated family dynamics.
Khai’s past.
Luna’s revenge.
The political maneuvering.
The development of their relationship.
BABES, YOU CANNOT HAND ME ALL OF THESE DELICIOUS INGREDIENTS AND THEN ANNOUNCE THAT DINNER IS OVER.
I WAS STILL EATING.
I wanted more time with these characters.
More opportunities to explore their individual histories.
More moments where the emotional connection could develop alongside the suspense.
And more room for the aftermath of all those dangerous decisions.
That’s really the difficulty with a novella like this.
The shorter format keeps everything moving, but when the characters and premise are interesting, I inevitably start wishing the author had given them a full-length novel.
MY GREED KNOWS NO BOUNDS WHEN IT COMES TO FICTIONAL MAFIA MEN.
And I refuse to apologize.
Still, I appreciate how much Deena managed to pack into a shorter story.
There was romance.
Danger.
Family conflict.
Revenge.
And a hero whose quiet intensity made him especially compelling.
FINAL VERDICT:
Four stars and two peppers for a deliciously entertaining mafia novella featuring an arranged marriage, a determined heroine, an overlooked hero, and enough dangerous family secrets to keep everyone suspicious.
The Sacrifice gave me so many things I love about mafia romance: questionable alliances, hidden agendas, protective instincts, and two characters who have every reason to guard their hearts.
Luna is smart, determined, and willing to make difficult decisions to achieve her goals.
Khai is guarded, intriguing, and much more than the man his family has underestimated.
Together, they make a fascinating pair.
My only real complaint?
I WANTED MORE OF THEM.
More development. More intrigue. More time in their wonderfully complicated world.
Deena LeVon, you absolutely have my attention.
Now, Luna?
YOU REALLY WALKED INTO A ROOM FULL OF MAFIA HEIRS, PICKED THE MOST BROODING ONE, AND ANNOUNCED HE WAS GOING TO BE YOUR HUSBAND.
ICONIC BEHAVIOR.
And Khai?
SIR, YOUR NEW WIFE HAS A REVENGE PLAN, A COLLECTION OF SECRETS, AND ABSOLUTELY NO INTENTION OF PLAYING NICE.
CONGRATULATIONS ON THE MARRIAGE.
YOU TWO ARE GOING TO BE EVERYONE’S PROBLEM.
FOUR STARS. TWO PEPPERS. AND ONE READER DEMANDING THAT THE NEXT MORALLY GRAY MAFIA MAN RECEIVE A CONSIDERABLY LARGER PAGE COUNT. 🖤🔪😈
Tropes: Dark Mafia Romance • Arranged Marriage • Marriage of Convenience • Revenge Plot • Morally Gray MMC • Protective Hero • Injured MMC • Family Betrayal • Forced Proximity • Touch Her and Die
October 19, 2026
Luna has been an outcast from her family for years. Knowing how much her father disliked her still hurts. No matter how much she tries nothing seems to change. Until the night her father is shot and her brother Micah is taken. Now all of a sudden she is sent to negotiate her brother's return from the Beauchamp family. Khai has been in the background of his family since his car accident. Never fully recovering from his injuries he stays on the outskirts and leave his father and brothers to the family business and The Keepers. Now hes stood next to a wall listening to the negotiations between his family and Luna Pierce. She's a beautiful woman trying to get her brother released. Knowing his family this won't be an easy negotiation. Then he hears her offer herself in marriage not to his brothers but him. Why. What has he got to offer her. What game is she playing. This is a complicated story, that really does play with your head. There isn't only the complex dynamics between the two families but there's also The Keepers, who are always in the background. Just who can be trusted. Can Luna ever be respected and valued by her family. What secrets is she keeping from Khai. Will she be able to break through his carefully constructed walls. Just how far will Khai go to protect what's his. Will either be able to find true peace. This is the first book in this series and I'm looking forward to seeing where it leads
October 17, 2026
✨ ARC Review ✨
We have rival families and an arranged marriage in this story, but the storyline, suspense, and mafia politics make it even more fun! 🔥
I love that our FMC is smart and strong and tries her best to get closer to the hubby she chose (even if it’s for revenge 👀). And when Khai and Luna start becoming protective of each other while falling in love, things get even more interesting from there! ❤️🔥
Can’t wait to read the next story!
Thank you for the ARC, Deena & Hambright PR! 💛
We have rival families and an arranged marriage in this story, but the storyline, suspense, and mafia politics make it even more fun! 🔥
I love that our FMC is smart and strong and tries her best to get closer to the hubby she chose (even if it’s for revenge 👀). And when Khai and Luna start becoming protective of each other while falling in love, things get even more interesting from there! ❤️🔥
Can’t wait to read the next story!
Thank you for the ARC, Deena & Hambright PR! 💛
September 10, 2026
Dark and twisted stuff—in the best way! Khai Beauchamp is everything I want in a morally gray hero — broken, possessive, and dangerous in all the right ways. And oh, so sexy. In walks Luna from a rival family ready to take him on. This is exactly the kind of high-stakes, forced-proximity dark romance I live for. Devoured this in one sitting!
November 1, 2026
I loved this dark mafia romance with heart! It was a quick, compelling read that kept me up past my bedtime, and I’ve already queued up The Prodigal to see what happens next!
October 9, 2026
4.5⭐|2🌶️|6%🌶️ frequency
I love getting free prequels to test new-to-me authors 😎
I saw an ARC opportunity for book 1 of this series, but because Deena is a new-to-me author, I didn't know if I wanted to take it or not.
I mean, I love supporting small indie authors. And all the tropes for the first book are just so great.
So I took this free prequel. Read it. And? Yeah, you read this review, so yes, I loved it 😁
And let me tell you something...
I absolutely didn't see any of the things that happened in this book coming. OK, for sure I saw that Khai and Luna would fall in love, but it's a romance book, so it's necessary 😉
Still, there are so many things happening, even in the short form of a novella 😱
At the beginning of the book, I thought I knew what would come. Not just for this book, but the next one too. But believe me, nothing of that happened 🙈
Khai and Luna are cute, but they are also kind of dangerous. Khai is broken. After a car accident, he's disabled, and besides his dog, he doesn't really want anyone else around him 🥺 But men that are so cute with their dogs, they are the absolute best 🥰 And the way he protects Luna, OMG 🤩
I'm not saying much more. I've already said a lot for a novella 🙈
It really is a great prequel, and I'm excited to read more by Deena 🩷
It really is a great prequel and I'm excited to read more by Deena 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
I love getting free prequels to test new-to-me authors 😎
I saw an ARC opportunity for book 1 of this series, but because Deena is a new-to-me author, I didn't know if I wanted to take it or not.
I mean, I love supporting small indie authors. And all the tropes for the first book are just so great.
So I took this free prequel. Read it. And? Yeah, you read this review, so yes, I loved it 😁
And let me tell you something...
I absolutely didn't see any of the things that happened in this book coming. OK, for sure I saw that Khai and Luna would fall in love, but it's a romance book, so it's necessary 😉
Still, there are so many things happening, even in the short form of a novella 😱
At the beginning of the book, I thought I knew what would come. Not just for this book, but the next one too. But believe me, nothing of that happened 🙈
Khai and Luna are cute, but they are also kind of dangerous. Khai is broken. After a car accident, he's disabled, and besides his dog, he doesn't really want anyone else around him 🥺 But men that are so cute with their dogs, they are the absolute best 🥰 And the way he protects Luna, OMG 🤩
I'm not saying much more. I've already said a lot for a novella 🙈
It really is a great prequel, and I'm excited to read more by Deena 🩷
It really is a great prequel and I'm excited to read more by Deena 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
October 24, 2026
"The Sacrifice" is a standalone, novella-length prequel to the Branded Bloodlines series. Going into it, I assumed that the couple from this book (Khai and Luna) would also be the MCs in the first book of the main series, but that one focuses on Khai's brother Tatum (and I'm really excited to read it).
For a book of well under 200 pages, this is surprisingly well-paced and complete-feeling. It's rare to find a romance novella that doesn't feel instalove-y, but the romance pacing was balanced and engaging here. Luna is exactly the kind of FMC I'm in the mood for right now, confident and kick-ass, and Khai is the kind of MMC I didn't know I was looking for-- quiet, emotionally vulnerable at times, but lethal.
I'd recommend this one to fans of mafia/organized crime romance who want their FMCs independent and bold, but not so much so that they become reckless. You'll have a good time with it if you enjoy:
⁀➴ enemy families brought together by a marriage of convenience (initiated by the FMC)
⁀➴ grumpy, brooding MMCs with surprising emotional depth beneath the surface
⁀➴ acts of service as a love language between the MCs
⁀➴ protective MMCs and FMCs
Overall: 4.75 stars
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Emotional damage: 💔💔
Character chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 💀💀💀 (mostly from the external world, not the romance dynamic)
Note: the author gifted me a free copy in exchange for a review— thank you!— but the review you just read is 100% my experience and honest opinion, straight from my chaotic brain. I don’t use AI for any of my reviews or content, including this one.
For a book of well under 200 pages, this is surprisingly well-paced and complete-feeling. It's rare to find a romance novella that doesn't feel instalove-y, but the romance pacing was balanced and engaging here. Luna is exactly the kind of FMC I'm in the mood for right now, confident and kick-ass, and Khai is the kind of MMC I didn't know I was looking for-- quiet, emotionally vulnerable at times, but lethal.
I'd recommend this one to fans of mafia/organized crime romance who want their FMCs independent and bold, but not so much so that they become reckless. You'll have a good time with it if you enjoy:
⁀➴ enemy families brought together by a marriage of convenience (initiated by the FMC)
⁀➴ grumpy, brooding MMCs with surprising emotional depth beneath the surface
⁀➴ acts of service as a love language between the MCs
⁀➴ protective MMCs and FMCs
Overall: 4.75 stars
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Emotional damage: 💔💔
Character chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 💀💀💀 (mostly from the external world, not the romance dynamic)
Note: the author gifted me a free copy in exchange for a review— thank you!— but the review you just read is 100% my experience and honest opinion, straight from my chaotic brain. I don’t use AI for any of my reviews or content, including this one.
October 13, 2026
⭐ 4 Stars! ⭐
Okay, this was actually a really good little novella! I went into it not knowing exactly what to expect, but let me tell you, this little baby packed a punch! 😂
We've got mafia, rituals, forced marriages, betrayal, and all the delicious chaos that comes with this kind of world. And somehow, the author managed to squeeze all of that into a novella! I was entertained from beginning to end.
Now, I do have a couple of complaints. First, the writing could definitely use some polishing. There were moments when it just didn't flow as well as I would've liked. And second... "willy dinky." MA'AM. WHAT?! 😭😂 Please, for the love of everything, never use that phrase again. Just no. Absolutely not. I'm begging you.
BUT, and this is a big but, the writing issues didn't stop me from enjoying the story. I was invested, I wanted to keep reading, and I genuinely had a good time with it.
For a prequel novella that sets the stage for the first book, I think this was a great start! I'm already intrigued by this world and cannot wait to see where the story goes. I'm just hoping the writing is a little more polished in the next one.
Overall, a really entertaining novella that delivers a whole lot of drama in a tiny package! Bring on book one! 🖤
Okay, this was actually a really good little novella! I went into it not knowing exactly what to expect, but let me tell you, this little baby packed a punch! 😂
We've got mafia, rituals, forced marriages, betrayal, and all the delicious chaos that comes with this kind of world. And somehow, the author managed to squeeze all of that into a novella! I was entertained from beginning to end.
Now, I do have a couple of complaints. First, the writing could definitely use some polishing. There were moments when it just didn't flow as well as I would've liked. And second... "willy dinky." MA'AM. WHAT?! 😭😂 Please, for the love of everything, never use that phrase again. Just no. Absolutely not. I'm begging you.
BUT, and this is a big but, the writing issues didn't stop me from enjoying the story. I was invested, I wanted to keep reading, and I genuinely had a good time with it.
For a prequel novella that sets the stage for the first book, I think this was a great start! I'm already intrigued by this world and cannot wait to see where the story goes. I'm just hoping the writing is a little more polished in the next one.
Overall, a really entertaining novella that delivers a whole lot of drama in a tiny package! Bring on book one! 🖤
October 25, 2026
ARC Review The Sacrifice Deena Levon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Branded Bloodlines 0.5
This book was such an intriguing and intense read! I really enjoyed the dark mafia atmosphere, the family drama, and the tension surrounding Luna and Khai’s relationship. The story pulled me in with its mix of revenge, loyalty, and complicated emotions, making me curious to see how everything would unfold.
I especially enjoyed the arranged marriage trope and the dynamic between the main characters. Luna is determined to do whatever it takes to protect her family and get her revenge, while Khai brings that brooding, mysterious energy that makes a morally gray character so interesting. Their relationship adds another layer of tension to the story, and I loved how their connection develops while both have their own motives.
Overall, this was an engaging mafia romance with intriguing characters, family secrets, and enough drama to keep things interesting. I would have loved a little more time with the characters, but it was still an enjoyable read, and I’m definitely curious to see what comes next in the Branded Bloodlines series!
Tropes:
•Dark Romance
•Mafia Romance
•Forbidden Love
•Enemies to Lovers
•Touch her and Die
•Arranged Marriage
•Forced Proximity
•Found Family
CW:
•Death
•Abuse
•Sex
•Violence
•Profanity
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Branded Bloodlines 0.5
This book was such an intriguing and intense read! I really enjoyed the dark mafia atmosphere, the family drama, and the tension surrounding Luna and Khai’s relationship. The story pulled me in with its mix of revenge, loyalty, and complicated emotions, making me curious to see how everything would unfold.
I especially enjoyed the arranged marriage trope and the dynamic between the main characters. Luna is determined to do whatever it takes to protect her family and get her revenge, while Khai brings that brooding, mysterious energy that makes a morally gray character so interesting. Their relationship adds another layer of tension to the story, and I loved how their connection develops while both have their own motives.
Overall, this was an engaging mafia romance with intriguing characters, family secrets, and enough drama to keep things interesting. I would have loved a little more time with the characters, but it was still an enjoyable read, and I’m definitely curious to see what comes next in the Branded Bloodlines series!
Tropes:
•Dark Romance
•Mafia Romance
•Forbidden Love
•Enemies to Lovers
•Touch her and Die
•Arranged Marriage
•Forced Proximity
•Found Family
CW:
•Death
•Abuse
•Sex
•Violence
•Profanity
October 20, 2026
""𝑰'𝒎 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝑳𝒖𝒏𝒂. 𝑮𝒆𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒑𝒂𝒚.""
Special thanks to @deenalevonauthor @hambright_pr for the #gifted epub in exchange for an honest review.
➡️ swipe for synopsis 👉🏼
𝙈𝙔 𝙍𝙀𝙑𝙄𝙀𝙒:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was way better than i expected it to be. I didnt really know what I was getting myself into because of course I signed up for book 2 before reading it was a series. I know...shocker.
But this one was amazing. The tension thats pulled throughout this was perfect. I read this in 1 sitting! And cmon, Khai and Luna = swoon.
I love these two together. Even through all each of them has been through before they found each other. Just wow. I think my jaw was open the whole book. I absolutely loved this and cant wait to jump right into the next one.
🐍Enemies to lovers
🐍Mafia
🐍Secret society
🐍Forced proximity
🐍Surprise pregnancy
🐍Falling in love
ℚ𝕆𝕋𝔻❓️⁉️❓️Date someone who talks in their sleep or someone who snores like a chainsaw?
.
.
.
🏷
The Sacrifice . Deena LeVon . Hambright PR . Dark Romance . Mafia Romance . Dark Mafia Romance . Enemies to Lovers .
#hambrightpr #deenalevon #darkromance #darkmafiaromance
Special thanks to @deenalevonauthor @hambright_pr for the #gifted epub in exchange for an honest review.
➡️ swipe for synopsis 👉🏼
𝙈𝙔 𝙍𝙀𝙑𝙄𝙀𝙒:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was way better than i expected it to be. I didnt really know what I was getting myself into because of course I signed up for book 2 before reading it was a series. I know...shocker.
But this one was amazing. The tension thats pulled throughout this was perfect. I read this in 1 sitting! And cmon, Khai and Luna = swoon.
I love these two together. Even through all each of them has been through before they found each other. Just wow. I think my jaw was open the whole book. I absolutely loved this and cant wait to jump right into the next one.
🐍Enemies to lovers
🐍Mafia
🐍Secret society
🐍Forced proximity
🐍Surprise pregnancy
🐍Falling in love
ℚ𝕆𝕋𝔻❓️⁉️❓️Date someone who talks in their sleep or someone who snores like a chainsaw?
.
.
.
🏷
The Sacrifice . Deena LeVon . Hambright PR . Dark Romance . Mafia Romance . Dark Mafia Romance . Enemies to Lovers .
#hambrightpr #deenalevon #darkromance #darkmafiaromance
September 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Sacrifice: A Novella by Deena Levon
Okay, Deena Levon! 👏🏾 This novella was such a quick but captivating read! The Sacrifice pulled me in from the beginning and had me wanting to know what was going to happen next. I love when a novella can give you emotion, tension, and a storyline that actually stays with you—and Deena definitely delivered!
The characters drew me in, and the story had me thinking about just how far someone is willing to go for the people or things they love. There were definitely moments that made me stop and say, “Oh, wow!” 😮💨
I won’t give anything away because you need to experience the story for yourself, but if you're looking for a short, intriguing read with emotion, drama, and enough twists to keep you turning the pages, definitely give The Sacrifice a try.
Congratulations, Deena, on your book! ❤️📚 I’m looking forward to seeing what you come up with next!
5 stars from me! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Sacrifice: A Novella by Deena Levon
Okay, Deena Levon! 👏🏾 This novella was such a quick but captivating read! The Sacrifice pulled me in from the beginning and had me wanting to know what was going to happen next. I love when a novella can give you emotion, tension, and a storyline that actually stays with you—and Deena definitely delivered!
The characters drew me in, and the story had me thinking about just how far someone is willing to go for the people or things they love. There were definitely moments that made me stop and say, “Oh, wow!” 😮💨
I won’t give anything away because you need to experience the story for yourself, but if you're looking for a short, intriguing read with emotion, drama, and enough twists to keep you turning the pages, definitely give The Sacrifice a try.
Congratulations, Deena, on your book! ❤️📚 I’m looking forward to seeing what you come up with next!
5 stars from me! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 24, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐ ARRANGED MARRIAGE
I’m not typically much of a novella reader, but The Sacrifice really surprised me! I genuinely enjoyed this one and thought it was such a great introduction to the series.
The connection between the main characters was so good, and I really loved getting to see how their relationship came to be. Their dynamic pulled me in, and I found myself wanting to know more about them and where their story would go.
For a shorter story, it did exactly what a prequel should do—it gave me enough of the characters and world to get invested without feeling like I was missing something. It definitely left me interested in seeing what happens next and made me want to continue on with the series.
A really good prequel and a great introduction to what I’m hoping is going to be an exciting series!
I’m not typically much of a novella reader, but The Sacrifice really surprised me! I genuinely enjoyed this one and thought it was such a great introduction to the series.
The connection between the main characters was so good, and I really loved getting to see how their relationship came to be. Their dynamic pulled me in, and I found myself wanting to know more about them and where their story would go.
For a shorter story, it did exactly what a prequel should do—it gave me enough of the characters and world to get invested without feeling like I was missing something. It definitely left me interested in seeing what happens next and made me want to continue on with the series.
A really good prequel and a great introduction to what I’m hoping is going to be an exciting series!
October 23, 2026
I can fully admit that I am an emotional person; I was crying before I even made it through the first chapter. This is the first time I've ever read anything by this author. I don't want to go into details about the book, but let's just say that I love Luna and Khai. In my opinion, this was an expertly written book. At no time did I lose interest. I did have to stop reading several times because I was shaking so badly—sometimes with fear, sometimes with adrenaline, and other times I was just crying. I only had two issues: one, I wish the book was longer, and two, I don't ever want to hear "winky dinky" ever again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 27, 2026
"The Sacrifice" is a standalone, novella-length prequel to the Branded Bloodlines series. I originally expected Khai and Luna to be the main couple in the first book, but that story actually centers on Khai’s brother Tatum—which I’m really looking forward to reading.
Though it’s under 200 pages, the story feels impressively complete and well-paced. Romance novellas often lean toward instalove, but here the relationship unfolds at a balanced and engaging pace. Luna is exactly the kind of FMC I’m drawn to right now—confident and kick-ass—while Khai is the MMC I didn’t know I needed: quiet, sometimes emotionally vulnerable, yet lethal.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Though it’s under 200 pages, the story feels impressively complete and well-paced. Romance novellas often lean toward instalove, but here the relationship unfolds at a balanced and engaging pace. Luna is exactly the kind of FMC I’m drawn to right now—confident and kick-ass—while Khai is the MMC I didn’t know I needed: quiet, sometimes emotionally vulnerable, yet lethal.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 7, 2026
This is exactly what I want out of a novella! The FMC can hold her own, the MMC has always been in the shadows of his family, and their forced marriage blooms beautifully. This prequel had the perfect amount of character development and fast paced action that meant I did not want to put the book down. I finished it in one sitting and immediately wanted to dive into book one of the series!
Thank you to Hambright PR and the author for a gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶🌶
🔹️🔹️Tropes🔹️🔹️
Dark Mafia Romance
Arranged Marriage
Enemies to Lovers
Underdog Hero
Badass Heroine
Touch Her and D*e
Criminal Dynasties
Forced Proximity
High-Stakes Loyalty
Morally Gray Characters
Thank you to Hambright PR and the author for a gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶🌶
🔹️🔹️Tropes🔹️🔹️
Dark Mafia Romance
Arranged Marriage
Enemies to Lovers
Underdog Hero
Badass Heroine
Touch Her and D*e
Criminal Dynasties
Forced Proximity
High-Stakes Loyalty
Morally Gray Characters
November 2, 2026
The Sacrficie is part of the Branded Bloodlines Series.
Luna is the outcast of her family, but in dire circusmtances she has to step up and negotiate with her enemy. She has a plan and nothing, not even her own heart, will stop her from accomplishing her goals. Luna was a strong character, and I loved every interaction she had with Khai. He had hidden away since his accident years earlier, but there is something about the more time they spend together which gets the other to view things differently.
Luna is the outcast of her family, but in dire circusmtances she has to step up and negotiate with her enemy. She has a plan and nothing, not even her own heart, will stop her from accomplishing her goals. Luna was a strong character, and I loved every interaction she had with Khai. He had hidden away since his accident years earlier, but there is something about the more time they spend together which gets the other to view things differently.
September 25, 2026
5⭐
a special thank you to my dearest friend, Priya, for sending me her aunt's novella to review! I can't wait for the next novels to come 🤞🏻
quick paced, action packed, dual perspective. contains a badass FMC willing to throw herself into marriage for her family and a dark MMC who protects her from his own. need I say more?
"I'm not just going to marry Khai. I'm going to make him love me so deeply he'll turn on his own blood and help us get the revenge we deserve."
a special thank you to my dearest friend, Priya, for sending me her aunt's novella to review! I can't wait for the next novels to come 🤞🏻
quick paced, action packed, dual perspective. contains a badass FMC willing to throw herself into marriage for her family and a dark MMC who protects her from his own. need I say more?
"I'm not just going to marry Khai. I'm going to make him love me so deeply he'll turn on his own blood and help us get the revenge we deserve."
November 3, 2026
I only picked up this novella because I got an ARC opportunity for book one (The Prodigal), and OH, this is the mafia romance I didn’t know I needed!
It’s short, but so well done! It kept me guessing at every turn, and the ending genuinely caught me by surprise. I was hooked from start to finish!
Honestly, I wish the next books continued focusing on the MCs of this novella because I really enjoyed following their story, and I’m not ready to let them go just yet!
It’s short, but so well done! It kept me guessing at every turn, and the ending genuinely caught me by surprise. I was hooked from start to finish!
Honestly, I wish the next books continued focusing on the MCs of this novella because I really enjoyed following their story, and I’m not ready to let them go just yet!
November 9, 2026
Wow. This novella completely surprised me.
What started as a marriage of convenience story quickly turned into something so much deeper. Khai had my whole heart. What started as a strategic marriage turned into a surprisingly emotional love story filled with healing, loyalty, and some serious swoon worthy moments. The way these two understood each other because they were both treated as outsiders by their families just hit differently. This was short, but it delivered everything I wanted.
What started as a marriage of convenience story quickly turned into something so much deeper. Khai had my whole heart. What started as a strategic marriage turned into a surprisingly emotional love story filled with healing, loyalty, and some serious swoon worthy moments. The way these two understood each other because they were both treated as outsiders by their families just hit differently. This was short, but it delivered everything I wanted.
October 12, 2026
Thank you HambrightPR and Deena LeVon for the ARC!
Holy blazing balls this is good.
Now, I’ve read my fair share of mafia romances but this is so good. The plot, refreshing yet aligned with your typical mafia book, the romance even better I engulfed this book.
🌶️🌶️
🖤🖤🖤
This mafia world is actually perfect and I cannot wait to read all the books that I know will eventually come out!
Holy blazing balls this is good.
Now, I’ve read my fair share of mafia romances but this is so good. The plot, refreshing yet aligned with your typical mafia book, the romance even better I engulfed this book.
🌶️🌶️
🖤🖤🖤
This mafia world is actually perfect and I cannot wait to read all the books that I know will eventually come out!
September 11, 2026
Deena Levon, you had me from jump. This book is a fantastic page turner and the characters will leave you wanting more! I love a strong well written female character and the intrigue of two BOSS mafia family’s.
I’m a fan and look forward to further publishings from you! 👏🏾🥂👏🏾
I’m a fan and look forward to further publishings from you! 👏🏾🥂👏🏾
October 28, 2026
I went into this book blind, what a delight, I absolutely loved it. Khai and Luna simply amazing, they lit up pages, so many twists and turns. I immediately downloaded the Prodigal I can't wait.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 4, 2026
This is a prequel to the Branded Bloodlines series. It’s a forced marriage (of sorts) story with a bit of a twist! An heiress gets to choose her own husband. There’s danger, secrets and drama in this dark mafia love story. An awesome prequel.
October 20, 2026
Loved this short spicy novella intro into the mafia world of The Keepers. This was a short intro into two mafia families that have it out for each other. Onto The Prodigal. Thank you for letting me read and review.
October 23, 2026
To prove herself and save her brother, she suggests a marriage but she picks which of the 3 brothers. Full intent on taking the family down. But, can she avoid falling in love?
September 8, 2026
Red flags? Check. A heroine who doesn't need saving? Check. A hero with more serious baggage, and I am HERE for it. The Sacrifice hooked me from page one and did not let go. It's a mafia drama, a slow-burn romance that actually earns its heat, and an ending that left me desperate for more. Could not put this down.
October 12, 2026
These two and their families! There’s definitely something wrong with them (in the best way possible)!
Wanting back in her family, Luna is sent to parley with the Beauchamps to get her brother back and ends up offering herself to be married into the family as payment. Only, she doesn’t choose the obvious choice; she goes for the quiet, hides-from-the-spotlight brother Khai. Khai doesn’t want a wife or really a relationship at all, so he goes along with this more for Luna’s brother who saved him once. Only, Luna’s stubborn and eventually works her way under his skin. So what happens when Khai learns it was all a part of a plan?
Luna and Khai get their happy ending in this standalone novella in a series.
These two were so great together! I loved how Luna quickly switched to wanting to help Khai figure out his issues and get him back to better health. Though that could have been more along the lines of her original plan to seduce him and needed him better for that. It would be interesting to know how much Khai’s father knew of his oldest son, Carter’s, plans and what it would all mean for the family. While he seemed surprised, that could have all been an act to save face with the secret society.
I received a review copy from Hambright PR, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wanting back in her family, Luna is sent to parley with the Beauchamps to get her brother back and ends up offering herself to be married into the family as payment. Only, she doesn’t choose the obvious choice; she goes for the quiet, hides-from-the-spotlight brother Khai. Khai doesn’t want a wife or really a relationship at all, so he goes along with this more for Luna’s brother who saved him once. Only, Luna’s stubborn and eventually works her way under his skin. So what happens when Khai learns it was all a part of a plan?
Luna and Khai get their happy ending in this standalone novella in a series.
These two were so great together! I loved how Luna quickly switched to wanting to help Khai figure out his issues and get him back to better health. Though that could have been more along the lines of her original plan to seduce him and needed him better for that. It would be interesting to know how much Khai’s father knew of his oldest son, Carter’s, plans and what it would all mean for the family. While he seemed surprised, that could have all been an act to save face with the secret society.
I received a review copy from Hambright PR, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 14, 2026
Wow. THE SACRIFICE is a fantastic solid foundation to the BRANDED BLOODLINES series. My emotions ran the full gamut here. Luna and Khai start their relationship in a very unconventional way, both being quite sure how it was going to go . . . then fate said, “hold my beer.”
THE SACRIFICE is a great read. Just be sure to mind your triggers. I love dark romances. After all, I am morally gray.
*** Recommended
MMC:
✨Khai
FMC:
✨Luna
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Series:
✨Book 0.5: Branded Bloodlines
Tropes:
👉mafia romance
👉enemies to lovers
👉strong
👉strong fmc
👉arranged marriage
👉touch her and ☠️
👉possessive mmc
👉scarred mmc
Triggers:🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥18+
💥 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, mf, open🚪sex
💥profanity
💥violence, abuse, trauma
💥death
💥jealousy
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
THE SACRIFICE is a great read. Just be sure to mind your triggers. I love dark romances. After all, I am morally gray.
*** Recommended
MMC:
✨Khai
FMC:
✨Luna
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA
Series:
✨Book 0.5: Branded Bloodlines
Tropes:
👉mafia romance
👉enemies to lovers
👉strong
👉strong fmc
👉arranged marriage
👉touch her and ☠️
👉possessive mmc
👉scarred mmc
Triggers:🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥18+
💥 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, mf, open🚪sex
💥profanity
💥violence, abuse, trauma
💥death
💥jealousy
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 28, 2026
A book that is difficult to put down once you start reading. It keeps you on edge from the very beginning. The story unfolds with plenty of twists and turns. It is an action-packed book full of drama, suspense, romance, and betrayal, but most of all about loyalty, combined with a mafia vibe. Larger-than-life characters and dysfunctional families—it has everything you can ask for. The characters grow beautifully with every chapter.
The story begins with a girl named Luna, who becomes an accidental bride in a rival mafia family. What will happen when her cover is blown? What happens when the family discovers she only married for an advantage over them? Will she survive? Where do her loyalties lie? All these questions arise as you read the book.
I rate it 4 out of 5. An excellent read.
The story begins with a girl named Luna, who becomes an accidental bride in a rival mafia family. What will happen when her cover is blown? What happens when the family discovers she only married for an advantage over them? Will she survive? Where do her loyalties lie? All these questions arise as you read the book.
I rate it 4 out of 5. An excellent read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews