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Redemption #1
Redemption
Part 1 of a two-part series
Makenna:
He's back. After three long, painful years of healing, he's finally back.
I loved Lucio De Campo with all of my heart, but his secret lifestyle destroyed any possible chance of us reconciling. For eight years, I loved him unconditionally and wanted nothing more than to start a family with him, until the night that all hell broke loose. Not only did I discover who he truly was, but the gruesome lifestyle that he led had put me in danger. When he left, I was broken beyond repair and was just now finding myself again. I couldn't let him back in. No matter how bad my heart was yearning for him.
Lucio:
I'm free! After years of living my life under my father's rule, I am finally free.
It took losing the love of my life and freedom for the past three years, but I have finally found my way. I'm a new man, determined to right my wrongs for the woman that I love. Who I am will never change, but I will never allow anyone to hurt her ever again. She's mine. Always has been and always will be. Fiancé or not; we will be together again.
Frankie:
Outcast. Disappointment. Failure.
Those are the words that I have been branded with since the day Lucio walked into my father's restaurant. I went from being next in line to some low level thug within my father's operation. For three years, I plotted against the family that forced away my father's love. They took everything from me, and I was determined to do same.
One night destroyed the lives' of three people and entangled them for years to come. Love, pain, and revenge started it all, but will it also end it?
Makenna:
He's back. After three long, painful years of healing, he's finally back.
I loved Lucio De Campo with all of my heart, but his secret lifestyle destroyed any possible chance of us reconciling. For eight years, I loved him unconditionally and wanted nothing more than to start a family with him, until the night that all hell broke loose. Not only did I discover who he truly was, but the gruesome lifestyle that he led had put me in danger. When he left, I was broken beyond repair and was just now finding myself again. I couldn't let him back in. No matter how bad my heart was yearning for him.
Lucio:
I'm free! After years of living my life under my father's rule, I am finally free.
It took losing the love of my life and freedom for the past three years, but I have finally found my way. I'm a new man, determined to right my wrongs for the woman that I love. Who I am will never change, but I will never allow anyone to hurt her ever again. She's mine. Always has been and always will be. Fiancé or not; we will be together again.
Frankie:
Outcast. Disappointment. Failure.
Those are the words that I have been branded with since the day Lucio walked into my father's restaurant. I went from being next in line to some low level thug within my father's operation. For three years, I plotted against the family that forced away my father's love. They took everything from me, and I was determined to do same.
One night destroyed the lives' of three people and entangled them for years to come. Love, pain, and revenge started it all, but will it also end it?
155 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 2, 2015
84 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie James
14 books5 followersStephanie James is a creative soul with a serious soft spot for love—especially the kind that blooms in multicultural relationships. She writes stories featuring strong women of color, flawed-but-fine heroes, and couples who fight their way through past traumas to earn their happily ever afters.
Stephanie’s playground is contemporary and urban romance, where passion comes in many flavors. Whether you like falling for broody millionaires, irresistible male strippers, or heroes who bring just the right touch of danger, she’s got a story ready to sweep you away (and maybe keep you up past your bedtime).
When Stephanie isn’t holed up in her writing fortress of solitude, she’s braving blistering heat or icy winds on the sidelines of her daughters’ softball games or her son’s soccer matches. And if she’s not doing that, she’s probably wandering through a new city for yet another wildly overpriced cheer competition. Through the chaos of parenting—chaos she admittedly loves—Stephanie still ends each night wrapped in her beloved Comfy, devouring a new romance by a fellow amazing author.
With every book she writes, she leaves a piece of her heart on the page, letting her characters speak through her to tell their messy, magical, multicultural love stories.
Stephanie’s playground is contemporary and urban romance, where passion comes in many flavors. Whether you like falling for broody millionaires, irresistible male strippers, or heroes who bring just the right touch of danger, she’s got a story ready to sweep you away (and maybe keep you up past your bedtime).
When Stephanie isn’t holed up in her writing fortress of solitude, she’s braving blistering heat or icy winds on the sidelines of her daughters’ softball games or her son’s soccer matches. And if she’s not doing that, she’s probably wandering through a new city for yet another wildly overpriced cheer competition. Through the chaos of parenting—chaos she admittedly loves—Stephanie still ends each night wrapped in her beloved Comfy, devouring a new romance by a fellow amazing author.
With every book she writes, she leaves a piece of her heart on the page, letting her characters speak through her to tell their messy, magical, multicultural love stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 6, 2015
Please tell me there's a book 2?! I need a conclusion for Lucio and McKenna and I would also love each of the brothers to get their own book too! Especially Copo! I love mob books and this one definitely didn't disappoint. I'll just be here not patiently waiting on book 2! Lol!
December 7, 2015
Wow
This was one of the best read in a long time. First time reading something by this Author had a few errors but I can overcome that because the story was awesome. I hate cliffhanger right when you're getting to the best part the story ends.
This was one of the best read in a long time. First time reading something by this Author had a few errors but I can overcome that because the story was awesome. I hate cliffhanger right when you're getting to the best part the story ends.
September 7, 2018
Excellent book! What a moving story line. Can't wait to read more from the Arthur.
November 8, 2015
WHEW... let me start off by saying... this book was freaking amazing!!! and I totally did not expect it at all.. actually I was waiting to be let down but nope! I knew when this book hooked me at only 1% it was going to be fanfreakingtastic!
Okay I am going to try to do this without spoilers... going to try really freaking hard.. so bare with me..
The first thing you should know going into the book is that there is a freaking cliffhanger... and a nice one that leaves you like HELL YEAH I can't wait til the next book... does it leave you a little frustrated.. yeah a little but not overwhelmingly because you know some shit is about to go down and now what you are waiting for is to see how everything plays out... actually if you were going to do a cliffhanger.. this is pretty much the way to do it.
Now about the characters... Lucio- Alpha, Italian and hot...which equals a freaking win in my book. OH and ladies and gents... not only do we get Lucio...we get his brothers as well! All of which had something special that adds to the book... I'll leave it there so you all can enjoy them once you read about them
Makenna...Have you ever had so much feeling for a character that you just wanted to give them a hug.. yeah she has been through SO freaking much and to see this little caterpillar turn into a fierce ass butterfly (That is putting it lightly) was so freaking awesome to read and the whole time I was like HELL YEAH GIRL!!!
The connection between the characters makes you fall in love with the story.. Now I will leave it right there because anymore and I will start spoiling stuff.
So with all that being said... I am sooo excited about part 2.. I know that this one just came out a little ago so I maybe in for a wait but I am crossing my fingers that I don't have to wait too long because I really really need to know how this all plays out.
Signing off.. loved every freaking minute of it!
Okay I am going to try to do this without spoilers... going to try really freaking hard.. so bare with me..
The first thing you should know going into the book is that there is a freaking cliffhanger... and a nice one that leaves you like HELL YEAH I can't wait til the next book... does it leave you a little frustrated.. yeah a little but not overwhelmingly because you know some shit is about to go down and now what you are waiting for is to see how everything plays out... actually if you were going to do a cliffhanger.. this is pretty much the way to do it.
Now about the characters... Lucio- Alpha, Italian and hot...which equals a freaking win in my book. OH and ladies and gents... not only do we get Lucio...we get his brothers as well! All of which had something special that adds to the book... I'll leave it there so you all can enjoy them once you read about them
Makenna...Have you ever had so much feeling for a character that you just wanted to give them a hug.. yeah she has been through SO freaking much and to see this little caterpillar turn into a fierce ass butterfly (That is putting it lightly) was so freaking awesome to read and the whole time I was like HELL YEAH GIRL!!!
The connection between the characters makes you fall in love with the story.. Now I will leave it right there because anymore and I will start spoiling stuff.
So with all that being said... I am sooo excited about part 2.. I know that this one just came out a little ago so I maybe in for a wait but I am crossing my fingers that I don't have to wait too long because I really really need to know how this all plays out.
Signing off.. loved every freaking minute of it!
November 24, 2015
Makenna and Lucio have been in love with each other since they were younger. They had to keep their love a secret because of Lucio's father who did not believe in mixing races. Lucio fake girlfriend decided that she wanted more in her relationship with Lucio and set her brother on a pregnant Makenna. One night Makenna was brutally raped and left for dead and once Lucio found out who had hurt his love, he exacted judgement swiftly and it landed him in prison for three years. Those three years Lucio was in prison was not good for either him or Makenna and when his time drew near Lucio learned that Makenna was engaged to another man, however that was not the only thing standing in the way of Lucio and Makenna reuniting. Someone is out for revenge not only against Lucio, but his entire family.
This was a really good read, although I have to say it was obvious that Lucio was going to get Makenna back. Richard was such a dillweed. Looking forward to the next book, I hope it can top this one.
This was a really good read, although I have to say it was obvious that Lucio was going to get Makenna back. Richard was such a dillweed. Looking forward to the next book, I hope it can top this one.
November 9, 2015
A Head Banger!!!
Well thanks for a bang up introduction to another ride or die couple.This union of Lucio and Makenna is so intense and volatile and sexy that you are immediately drawn.The circumstances surrounding them is tragic and it is strengthening.I love that the writer has shown us what an alpha couple can be when they are faced with crazy odds and real love.The interaction between the supporting characters is just as intense and on some instances just as good.This is not primarily a story of gangster family or guy and girl
The writer shows gives a few lessons on love,revenge,lies and willing to sacrifice and to forgive.This is action and drama from beginning to end and you are going to want to follow the next installment because it promises to be a bang! Now my only complaint is that there are quite a few typos that come at critical times and they diminish the point or the scene.Please in the next installment go over with a fine tooth comb.
Well thanks for a bang up introduction to another ride or die couple.This union of Lucio and Makenna is so intense and volatile and sexy that you are immediately drawn.The circumstances surrounding them is tragic and it is strengthening.I love that the writer has shown us what an alpha couple can be when they are faced with crazy odds and real love.The interaction between the supporting characters is just as intense and on some instances just as good.This is not primarily a story of gangster family or guy and girl
The writer shows gives a few lessons on love,revenge,lies and willing to sacrifice and to forgive.This is action and drama from beginning to end and you are going to want to follow the next installment because it promises to be a bang! Now my only complaint is that there are quite a few typos that come at critical times and they diminish the point or the scene.Please in the next installment go over with a fine tooth comb.
November 5, 2015
Wow
If this is Stephanie's first book....she hit it way outta the ballpark....Kenna and Lucio's story is off the chain....the ins and outs started when they were teenagers...sudden tragedy has Lucio out on a deadly revenge journey and he lands in prison..he's out and wants redemption and forgiveness from the love of his life only to find her engaged to an unscrupulous character masquerading as an upstanding citizen...well....let's just say everything became totally complicated when shit hit the fan....truth comes to light..chips fall where they may....a seemingly damsel in distress becomes a warrior...New bonds are forged....and family ties are made stronger...especially when the matriarch is kidnapped...I will wait patiently for the next one...hopefully in time to save mama.
If this is Stephanie's first book....she hit it way outta the ballpark....Kenna and Lucio's story is off the chain....the ins and outs started when they were teenagers...sudden tragedy has Lucio out on a deadly revenge journey and he lands in prison..he's out and wants redemption and forgiveness from the love of his life only to find her engaged to an unscrupulous character masquerading as an upstanding citizen...well....let's just say everything became totally complicated when shit hit the fan....truth comes to light..chips fall where they may....a seemingly damsel in distress becomes a warrior...New bonds are forged....and family ties are made stronger...especially when the matriarch is kidnapped...I will wait patiently for the next one...hopefully in time to save mama.
November 14, 2015
My attention was grabbed right away. I thought I'd read a couple chapters and go to bed after. I ended up reading the entire book. I was too interested in finding out how in the heck one can murder two people in a restaurant full of witnesses and walk out of prison after only serving three years. Lucio serves his time on his own with little to no family support. This gives him time to come to some realizations about his future and whom will be in it. I was happy to read that the author didn't allow Makenna to be a whiney heroine. Yes, she suffered horrible tragedies, but was able to come through with the help of one of her best friends, Royce, and accepting (settling) a relationship with his cousin Ricky. Unfortunate for Ricky, Lucio has always had and still has her heart. Lucio and Makenna have reonnected, watch out.
December 14, 2015
My first book by this author. I read this story on Kindle Unlimited.
This was a great read, the story pulled you in from page 1. The story is fast moving which I love no time to get bored. This is Makenna and Lucio's story. This couple really love each other and someone rob them of the lives together out of jealousy. Even after all this couple have suffered there are people out there still wanting them to suffer some more. Well Makenna has had enough of being a victim and she rise us up to become a ride or die woman fighting right next to her man. Again something I love to see in Crime Family stories.
Just such a shame that the book has been split into to 2 parts and now we have to wait for part 2 to come out before we know how the story ends!
This was a great read, the story pulled you in from page 1. The story is fast moving which I love no time to get bored. This is Makenna and Lucio's story. This couple really love each other and someone rob them of the lives together out of jealousy. Even after all this couple have suffered there are people out there still wanting them to suffer some more. Well Makenna has had enough of being a victim and she rise us up to become a ride or die woman fighting right next to her man. Again something I love to see in Crime Family stories.
Just such a shame that the book has been split into to 2 parts and now we have to wait for part 2 to come out before we know how the story ends!
December 17, 2016
I did not like this book. Oops... here comes the punches...
Wait..I'll explain...Everything just seemed convenient and detached. I can't say I was drawn to any character. There was no chemistry between the Mckenna and Lucio...they didn't seem in love. It's just all on paper. I didn't feel anything throughout the course of the book.. not excitement, wonder...it was just bland for me.
I skimmed a good amount towards the end of the book because I just wanted to get it over with.
Wait..I'll explain...Everything just seemed convenient and detached. I can't say I was drawn to any character. There was no chemistry between the Mckenna and Lucio...they didn't seem in love. It's just all on paper. I didn't feel anything throughout the course of the book.. not excitement, wonder...it was just bland for me.
I skimmed a good amount towards the end of the book because I just wanted to get it over with.
December 3, 2015
Can't wait for number 2!
Wonderful read, pulls you in and keeps you involved. More light reading than a lot of mafia romance centered romances, but that okay. Makes for easier reading. Loved the backstory and the childhood romance aspect. Steamy love scenes, coulda used more in my opinion. Liked the chemistry between the two H/h. The ex fiance and sister were dastardly. Can't wait for the 2nd book!
Wonderful read, pulls you in and keeps you involved. More light reading than a lot of mafia romance centered romances, but that okay. Makes for easier reading. Loved the backstory and the childhood romance aspect. Steamy love scenes, coulda used more in my opinion. Liked the chemistry between the two H/h. The ex fiance and sister were dastardly. Can't wait for the 2nd book!
November 10, 2015
If she don't stop playing!
If she don't stop playing with my emotions where is part? I need that ASAP! This is my first read from this author but she did a good job. Richard but off a little more than he could chew. Kenna was playing no games when it came down to the De Compo family. Can't wait for part 2.
If she don't stop playing with my emotions where is part? I need that ASAP! This is my first read from this author but she did a good job. Richard but off a little more than he could chew. Kenna was playing no games when it came down to the De Compo family. Can't wait for part 2.
February 1, 2020
Wowwww!!!!!
This book is all types of good. There is constant drama and plots. I'm glad I didn't discover this book until the second book was already out. It makes the reading so much better
This book is all types of good. There is constant drama and plots. I'm glad I didn't discover this book until the second book was already out. It makes the reading so much better
November 12, 2015
Oh yeah
Hot Damn! Kenna and Cio make an excellent team! Book was amazing from beginning to end. Love that this Italian man can make grits! Oh I'm in love! Can't wait until book two!! Shout out to Ali and Merit's appearance in the book!
Hot Damn! Kenna and Cio make an excellent team! Book was amazing from beginning to end. Love that this Italian man can make grits! Oh I'm in love! Can't wait until book two!! Shout out to Ali and Merit's appearance in the book!
November 15, 2015
I really enjoyed!!!!
Aaaaahhh I screamed when I realized this book has a part 2. Kindle has to do a better job of notifying us when author's write sequels when it's clear we read one of the books in a series. Now I have to look out for book 2 , snap!!!!
Aaaaahhh I screamed when I realized this book has a part 2. Kindle has to do a better job of notifying us when author's write sequels when it's clear we read one of the books in a series. Now I have to look out for book 2 , snap!!!!
September 27, 2016
Reason I cliffhanger's
I absolutely love the book . However , I read it almost a year ago and I'm still waiting for the sequel! It's definitely worth the read . But, I would wait until the second part of the book has been released if I had to do it again .
I absolutely love the book . However , I read it almost a year ago and I'm still waiting for the sequel! It's definitely worth the read . But, I would wait until the second part of the book has been released if I had to do it again .
July 22, 2020
It was a great read. I loved it
Kenna aka Makenna comes from being a scared woman and victim to a bad ass who willingly to become a ruthless mob member in the Decampo family. After, being involved with her best friend Lucio Decampo and her being beaten to death and losing her unborn children cause Lucio being born in to a crime family she didn't know he was part of a mob family who one of the biggest and powerful families in Chicago. She loss her love to him murdering the 2 people cause her nearly dying and losing their children. He did 3 years in prison. Kenna endured a lot during Cio absence. She tired to move on with her life when Lucio returns. Richard is Makenna's fiancee but he does some file things that cause Kenna to leave him and go back to Lucio. Richard gets involve with Frankie Martello who is after revenge for the Decampo family because Lucio killed his best friend and Decampo broke ties with his father and his family. He trying to gain respect and power back to the Martello family. So to put his plan in action quicker he sends Kenna a video of Richard cheating and snorting so Kenna can leave Richard and go back to Lucio. He wanted to use Kenna as leverage to lurk Lucio his way so he finally get his revenge. When that don't work he somehow gets Lucio mother. Which puts Makenna in rage so she decide to join the family business that Luco Decampo Cio's Dad purpose to her the night she was attacked by Richard . It's a must read.
Kenna aka Makenna comes from being a scared woman and victim to a bad ass who willingly to become a ruthless mob member in the Decampo family. After, being involved with her best friend Lucio Decampo and her being beaten to death and losing her unborn children cause Lucio being born in to a crime family she didn't know he was part of a mob family who one of the biggest and powerful families in Chicago. She loss her love to him murdering the 2 people cause her nearly dying and losing their children. He did 3 years in prison. Kenna endured a lot during Cio absence. She tired to move on with her life when Lucio returns. Richard is Makenna's fiancee but he does some file things that cause Kenna to leave him and go back to Lucio. Richard gets involve with Frankie Martello who is after revenge for the Decampo family because Lucio killed his best friend and Decampo broke ties with his father and his family. He trying to gain respect and power back to the Martello family. So to put his plan in action quicker he sends Kenna a video of Richard cheating and snorting so Kenna can leave Richard and go back to Lucio. He wanted to use Kenna as leverage to lurk Lucio his way so he finally get his revenge. When that don't work he somehow gets Lucio mother. Which puts Makenna in rage so she decide to join the family business that Luco Decampo Cio's Dad purpose to her the night she was attacked by Richard . It's a must read.
September 30, 2020
Lucio and Kenna
This is the second time I've read the book because I had to familiarize myself with this book again before I started book two. It was just as good the second time around. Makenna has been through alot, being raped and losing her unborn children basically because the color of her skin. Her boyfriend Lucio's Italian father don't do the mixing of blood so Lucio fake girlfriend caught feelings and had her brother to attack Kenna in return Lucio kills them both and is sent to prison. It was hard on both of them. Now three years later he's out and a lot has come to light. Ricky, Kenna's now fiance is foul and done teamed up with Frankie who out for revenge and redemption and he's also done kidnapped Lucio's mother. Kenna ready to boss up with her man and all hell bout to break loose.💓💓
This is the second time I've read the book because I had to familiarize myself with this book again before I started book two. It was just as good the second time around. Makenna has been through alot, being raped and losing her unborn children basically because the color of her skin. Her boyfriend Lucio's Italian father don't do the mixing of blood so Lucio fake girlfriend caught feelings and had her brother to attack Kenna in return Lucio kills them both and is sent to prison. It was hard on both of them. Now three years later he's out and a lot has come to light. Ricky, Kenna's now fiance is foul and done teamed up with Frankie who out for revenge and redemption and he's also done kidnapped Lucio's mother. Kenna ready to boss up with her man and all hell bout to break loose.💓💓
September 13, 2020
Redemption: a BWWM romance
Lucio (Cio) De Campo is the son of Chicago's powerful/notorious mafia family. His love for Mckenna (Kenna) knows no bounds. After serving three years in prison, he is back on a quest to win her ❤ again. To be continued... Part 2 is my next read by the author Stephanie James.
9/13/2020.
Lucio (Cio) De Campo is the son of Chicago's powerful/notorious mafia family. His love for Mckenna (Kenna) knows no bounds. After serving three years in prison, he is back on a quest to win her ❤ again. To be continued... Part 2 is my next read by the author Stephanie James.
9/13/2020.
February 2, 2020
Excellently Done...
I am so glad that I waited until the second part was released, because I would have been mad that it ended in a cliffhanger. Now that I have finished this excellent part, I am happy to start the second.
I am so glad that I waited until the second part was released, because I would have been mad that it ended in a cliffhanger. Now that I have finished this excellent part, I am happy to start the second.
March 27, 2020
Well...
Well that was quite a ride. Makenna, did a 180 from a frightened damsel into 'let's fight' hero. Cliffhangers...no. Drama, action, intrigue wrapped in a twisted love story. I will read the next book.
Well that was quite a ride. Makenna, did a 180 from a frightened damsel into 'let's fight' hero. Cliffhangers...no. Drama, action, intrigue wrapped in a twisted love story. I will read the next book.
May 19, 2020
Good Read
I think this author has something going for herself. I love Cio and Kenna story. They have a lot of making up to do. I wish Kenna wasn’t so Mealymouth about life and get with the program.
I think this author has something going for herself. I love Cio and Kenna story. They have a lot of making up to do. I wish Kenna wasn’t so Mealymouth about life and get with the program.
April 25, 2024
Mafia life!
Good story. Wish I had read this story before reading Russian Mutt, Jacapo's story. Love how the story shows the close-knit group the family is and McKenna showing she is that mafia queen.
Good story. Wish I had read this story before reading Russian Mutt, Jacapo's story. Love how the story shows the close-knit group the family is and McKenna showing she is that mafia queen.
February 11, 2020
Wow
On to the next book, I am loving the excitement of your books ms. James I have set myself up to read all that you have written being pieces was my first one.
On to the next book, I am loving the excitement of your books ms. James I have set myself up to read all that you have written being pieces was my first one.
April 11, 2020
Redemption
Redemption by Stephanie James is written with passion, suspense, action, love, betrayal and violence. I love the whole exciting book
Redemption by Stephanie James is written with passion, suspense, action, love, betrayal and violence. I love the whole exciting book
June 23, 2022
4.5 Stars
This book was a pleasant surprise.
I enjoyed both the Hh, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
Defiantly recommend this book
This book was a pleasant surprise.
I enjoyed both the Hh, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
Defiantly recommend this book
August 8, 2024
Dramaaaa
Enjoyed this 1st book In this duet Can't wait to see what the finale is with Frankie and his mess is about
Love the Connection between Lucio And Kayla
Enjoyed this 1st book In this duet Can't wait to see what the finale is with Frankie and his mess is about
Love the Connection between Lucio And Kayla
June 12, 2016
HOT DAMN !!!!
There were times I was a little frustrated with Keena but that ending more than made up for it... This is the type of book once you start you can't put down. This book is definitely worth 5 stars in my opinion. I loved that the author wrote a female character who would go toe to toe for her man and not some save me woman.
There were times I was a little frustrated with Keena but that ending more than made up for it... This is the type of book once you start you can't put down. This book is definitely worth 5 stars in my opinion. I loved that the author wrote a female character who would go toe to toe for her man and not some save me woman.
November 11, 2015
Good
I am so glad she stopped with the pity parties and being the victim. She is stronger and got her man back. It's about to be on. They ain't ready. Looking forward to book 2. I hope it doesn't disappoint because I am looking forward to the love birds tearing up some stuff.
I am so glad she stopped with the pity parties and being the victim. She is stronger and got her man back. It's about to be on. They ain't ready. Looking forward to book 2. I hope it doesn't disappoint because I am looking forward to the love birds tearing up some stuff.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews