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Hunter
Born into blood, I was a mafia princess. Raised in hiding, I was a Californian sweetheart.
The day my father sold my thirteen year old body to pay off a five year old debt was the day my mother stole me in the dead of night. She protected me as she was supposed to.
My father may have been the king, but my mother was the queen.
The mafia blood was hers.
That was ten years ago. Now… the devil was on the loose.
Carlo ‘Hunter’ Rosso was my father’s right hand man and the boy I’d loved since I could tie my own shoelaces. He was always the most ruthless and the most deadly of all the children.
He’d thought I was dead until the day his assignment was given: Kill Adriana and Alexandria Romano. Kill the princess, and definitely kill the queen.
What he didn’t know was that the queen was dead, and the princess had taken her throne.
Blood didn’t lie. It smeared, distorted, stained. But it didn’t lie.
My father was going to learn the hard way that the empire he’d stolen belonged to me.
And so did Carlo ‘Hunter’ Rosso.
(HUNTER is a standalone erotic romance with elements of suspense. There will be strong adult themes throughout.)
The day my father sold my thirteen year old body to pay off a five year old debt was the day my mother stole me in the dead of night. She protected me as she was supposed to.
My father may have been the king, but my mother was the queen.
The mafia blood was hers.
That was ten years ago. Now… the devil was on the loose.
Carlo ‘Hunter’ Rosso was my father’s right hand man and the boy I’d loved since I could tie my own shoelaces. He was always the most ruthless and the most deadly of all the children.
He’d thought I was dead until the day his assignment was given: Kill Adriana and Alexandria Romano. Kill the princess, and definitely kill the queen.
What he didn’t know was that the queen was dead, and the princess had taken her throne.
Blood didn’t lie. It smeared, distorted, stained. But it didn’t lie.
My father was going to learn the hard way that the empire he’d stolen belonged to me.
And so did Carlo ‘Hunter’ Rosso.
(HUNTER is a standalone erotic romance with elements of suspense. There will be strong adult themes throughout.)
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2016
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570 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
March 25, 2016
I have been so intrigued by Blaire Drake’s writing since I saw the blurb for Dear Professor, so naturally I had to jump into this one. I didn’t actually read they blurb and was so pleasantly surprised with the unexpected suspenseful plot.
Adriana is just a child when she is woken in the middle of the night by her mother and flees from her home. Her mother saves her that night because her father, a mafia leader, sold her to the highest bidder. Her and her mother escape leaving that world behind in order to save Adriana’s life.
The story then starts years later and Addy is now an adult. Her mother has passed away and she is left trying to figure out what to do next. What she wants to do is get revenge on her father. She hasn’t worked out all the details, but she feels she owes it to her mother. Her plan is put on hold when her father’s assassin arrives to kill her, but not just any assassin, but the boy she has loved her whole life.
Hunter isn’t the boy he once was, he is now a cold blooded killer. I love love stories so naturally this is when the story really took off for me. I loved seeing them reconnect and watching them fall in love as adults. I wish there was a little less suspense and twists and more love story, but that’s just me and my preference. I could see a lot of my friends really enjoying the suspenseful side and loving this one.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Teaser created by me with stock images purchased from depositphotos.
Adriana is just a child when she is woken in the middle of the night by her mother and flees from her home. Her mother saves her that night because her father, a mafia leader, sold her to the highest bidder. Her and her mother escape leaving that world behind in order to save Adriana’s life.
The story then starts years later and Addy is now an adult. Her mother has passed away and she is left trying to figure out what to do next. What she wants to do is get revenge on her father. She hasn’t worked out all the details, but she feels she owes it to her mother. Her plan is put on hold when her father’s assassin arrives to kill her, but not just any assassin, but the boy she has loved her whole life.
Trust no one.
People will hurt you to help themselves.
Blood doesn’t lie.
I was alone. I had no one. If I wanted to carry on with this, I had to do it myself.
Hunter isn’t the boy he once was, he is now a cold blooded killer. I love love stories so naturally this is when the story really took off for me. I loved seeing them reconnect and watching them fall in love as adults. I wish there was a little less suspense and twists and more love story, but that’s just me and my preference. I could see a lot of my friends really enjoying the suspenseful side and loving this one.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Teaser created by me with stock images purchased from depositphotos.
March 30, 2016
4 'Kill me or fuck me' Stars
"Addy I need you to come with me. now." Those were the words that changed Adriana Romano's life ten years ago when she was only thirteen years old. Her mother, the Queen of the Romano family, took her away from her home when she learned that her father had sold her to cover a debt. When Adriana was taken away she didn't just leave behind her home, she left her best friend. But when he shows up out of no where after ten years, she knows it's definitely not a happy reunion.
Carlo 'Hunter' Rosso had a piece of him break the day he was told his best friend had died. For ten years he has mourned her loss and there hasn't been a day that he didn't think of her. So when he's told that she's alive after all this time apart he should be ecstatic, right? He's more tormented than anything when he finds out, though, because now he's been ordered to kill her.
I loved the mystery that was involved in this story. There was a lot that we had to figure out, and it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Even Hunter was a bit of a mystery since the author made it so that readers couldn't tell is he could actually be trusted or not. It kept the story exceptionally interesting.
Adriana was a intriguing character and I enjoyed getting to see her grow throughout the story. The character development was amazing in this book, and I especially liked getting how we saw Adriana go from the unsure woman we first met, to the new reigning Queen of the Romano family.
Overall, this was a thrilling tale of young love that has grown into a dark battle between two hearts. I loved Hunter and Adriana's story and the intensity of it. I wouldn't classify it as a dark book really, but it did have some dark aspects to it that added a bit more interest to it.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
"Addy I need you to come with me. now." Those were the words that changed Adriana Romano's life ten years ago when she was only thirteen years old. Her mother, the Queen of the Romano family, took her away from her home when she learned that her father had sold her to cover a debt. When Adriana was taken away she didn't just leave behind her home, she left her best friend. But when he shows up out of no where after ten years, she knows it's definitely not a happy reunion.
Carlo 'Hunter' Rosso had a piece of him break the day he was told his best friend had died. For ten years he has mourned her loss and there hasn't been a day that he didn't think of her. So when he's told that she's alive after all this time apart he should be ecstatic, right? He's more tormented than anything when he finds out, though, because now he's been ordered to kill her.
I loved the mystery that was involved in this story. There was a lot that we had to figure out, and it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Even Hunter was a bit of a mystery since the author made it so that readers couldn't tell is he could actually be trusted or not. It kept the story exceptionally interesting.
Adriana was a intriguing character and I enjoyed getting to see her grow throughout the story. The character development was amazing in this book, and I especially liked getting how we saw Adriana go from the unsure woman we first met, to the new reigning Queen of the Romano family.
Overall, this was a thrilling tale of young love that has grown into a dark battle between two hearts. I loved Hunter and Adriana's story and the intensity of it. I wouldn't classify it as a dark book really, but it did have some dark aspects to it that added a bit more interest to it.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2016
★★★ 3 stars...Or less :/ ★★★
This book started of promising enough.Great blurb,beautiful writing and a superb prologue,which might I add,raised my expectations for this book up a few notched because how suspense packed and bad-assed the characters seemed..
And well,Once the actual story started,the whole plot of wheeled down hill from there.
My biggest problem with this book was actually the Heroine.The BLURB PROMISED ME a kick-assed revenge thirsty mafia queen,instead what did I get ?
A 23 year old who acts like she's still in high school and goes around barking orders because she's the president of the student body and their new PROM Queen.Duh.
“Get your ass into that goddamn building, rent a car, and get me the fuck out of California before I tear you so many new assholes you'll be shitting out of your armpits.”
There is difference between commanding respect and demanding respect.
It's one thing to order people around when you ARE queen and have earned your title and another,to just go around randomly ordering your friends,who clearly have no respect for you because you've done nothing so far but sitting in your house and feeding tuna to your cat ever half an hour.
I get that she's in hiding and I get that she wants her family business back.But tell me,HOW is just walking in and killing your dad for his throne such a great plan.When you have NO CONNECTIONS,NO CONTACTS,NO AMMO and Clearly NO actual TRAINING,other than taking your gun for a round at your local shooting range,just to get the gist of it.
Her character was so inconsistent she not only gave me,BUT all the other characters in this book wiplashs with all her talks of being THE QUEEN seconds before running of like a scared little bunny,the moment she hears a gun-shot somewhere.
“She looked terrified.
The bravado and determination she'd shown just minutes ago had quickly morphed into a 'fucking run' instinct that radiated from her with her fear. Her bright blue eyes were wide with shock, as though she couldn't believe what was happening.”
Your A MAFIA QUEEN right,princess ? Hope your ready to get used to the sound of gunshots if your still planning on taking over your father's kingdom soon. ;/
Other than the writing,the only thing that save this book for me was the hero and a handful of the secondary characters.Hunter is your expected charming male lead,completely in love with his childhood best friend and determined to protect her from all sources of evil as long as he stays alive.
“I wondered how many more people I'd have to kill to even get to Adriana.
Five. Ten. Fifty. I didn't care. I'd take down an entire country for her if that's what it took to keep her safe.”
There was also a few other secondary characters that popped in and out after delivering the necessary information,needed to get the plot going,before disappearing again.
But By far,my favorite character was actually the Heroine's dead mother.Now She was A true QUEEN.If she didn't keep showing up in crucial turning points of the plot,P.S: I LOVE YOU style,by leaving cash and maintaining several safe house for her daughter,just in case.The hero and heroine would have probably perished a long time ago and never reached the climax and finish the story.
*Sign* At least it ended well.The last 15% turned out good hence the 3 star rating.In fact the climax got over super fast.But I didn't mind,by that point,I just wanted the whole thing to end.I kind of dragged this book on for three whole days by choosing to study my Pathology Textbook,over reading this novel EVEN though it was a WEEKEND.So yeah,now you know.
The sad part is,I actually LIKED the author's style of writing..In fact if you just picked these two characters and actually put them in a high school/new adult collage setting,this whole thing could have actually WORKED as an angsty first love romance read.
The bad boy and his sad princess,who ends up finding themselves in their love for each-other..or something.
Would I recommend this read ? Or be reading the squeal,if released?
Don't think I need to specifically answer this question after all my ranting above.
So yeah.Just No.
P.S: THIS BOOK IS NOT A DARK READ.Not sure how it ended up in the Dark Reads Listopia.But I repeat this is NOT Dark.
This book started of promising enough.Great blurb,beautiful writing and a superb prologue,which might I add,raised my expectations for this book up a few notched because how suspense packed and bad-assed the characters seemed..
And well,Once the actual story started,the whole plot of wheeled down hill from there.
My biggest problem with this book was actually the Heroine.The BLURB PROMISED ME a kick-assed revenge thirsty mafia queen,instead what did I get ?
A 23 year old who acts like she's still in high school and goes around barking orders because she's the president of the student body and their new PROM Queen.Duh.
“Get your ass into that goddamn building, rent a car, and get me the fuck out of California before I tear you so many new assholes you'll be shitting out of your armpits.”
There is difference between commanding respect and demanding respect.
It's one thing to order people around when you ARE queen and have earned your title and another,to just go around randomly ordering your friends,who clearly have no respect for you because you've done nothing so far but sitting in your house and feeding tuna to your cat ever half an hour.
I get that she's in hiding and I get that she wants her family business back.But tell me,HOW is just walking in and killing your dad for his throne such a great plan.When you have NO CONNECTIONS,NO CONTACTS,NO AMMO and Clearly NO actual TRAINING,other than taking your gun for a round at your local shooting range,just to get the gist of it.
Her character was so inconsistent she not only gave me,BUT all the other characters in this book wiplashs with all her talks of being THE QUEEN seconds before running of like a scared little bunny,the moment she hears a gun-shot somewhere.
“She looked terrified.
The bravado and determination she'd shown just minutes ago had quickly morphed into a 'fucking run' instinct that radiated from her with her fear. Her bright blue eyes were wide with shock, as though she couldn't believe what was happening.”
Your A MAFIA QUEEN right,princess ? Hope your ready to get used to the sound of gunshots if your still planning on taking over your father's kingdom soon. ;/
Other than the writing,the only thing that save this book for me was the hero and a handful of the secondary characters.Hunter is your expected charming male lead,completely in love with his childhood best friend and determined to protect her from all sources of evil as long as he stays alive.
“I wondered how many more people I'd have to kill to even get to Adriana.
Five. Ten. Fifty. I didn't care. I'd take down an entire country for her if that's what it took to keep her safe.”
There was also a few other secondary characters that popped in and out after delivering the necessary information,needed to get the plot going,before disappearing again.
But By far,my favorite character was actually the Heroine's dead mother.Now She was A true QUEEN.If she didn't keep showing up in crucial turning points of the plot,P.S: I LOVE YOU style,by leaving cash and maintaining several safe house for her daughter,just in case.The hero and heroine would have probably perished a long time ago and never reached the climax and finish the story.
*Sign* At least it ended well.The last 15% turned out good hence the 3 star rating.In fact the climax got over super fast.But I didn't mind,by that point,I just wanted the whole thing to end.I kind of dragged this book on for three whole days by choosing to study my Pathology Textbook,over reading this novel EVEN though it was a WEEKEND.So yeah,now you know.
The sad part is,I actually LIKED the author's style of writing..In fact if you just picked these two characters and actually put them in a high school/new adult collage setting,this whole thing could have actually WORKED as an angsty first love romance read.
The bad boy and his sad princess,who ends up finding themselves in their love for each-other..or something.
Would I recommend this read ? Or be reading the squeal,if released?
Don't think I need to specifically answer this question after all my ranting above.
So yeah.Just No.
P.S: THIS BOOK IS NOT A DARK READ.Not sure how it ended up in the Dark Reads Listopia.But I repeat this is NOT Dark.
April 3, 2016
Review to come.
ARC was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
ARC was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2016
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Blaire Drake. Immediately when I hear this author’s name, I think of her book, Dear Professor, which was wickedly sexy and steamy. And so when I found out that she was releasing another book, I knew I had to get my hands on it.
“My name, Adriana, was dark. My nickname, scuro, was dark. My life, a mafia princess, was dark. My father had no idea what he’d done. One day, he would pay. He would atone for his sins. I would make sure of it.”
Unlike her first book which had the forbidden and sexy undertone, Hunter was very different. Though this book had the sexy element weaved into the story line, it wasn’t the main focus. This book was more a mafia suspense. Yes, Blaire Drake had incorporated a romance aspect but it was mainly more suspense in my opinion.
So what happens when the hunter becomes the prey? When a mafia princess makes her return and gets revenge on the man who ruined her life? Can the prey become the hunter?
“The boy I'd once loved was now a monster. Nothing more than a cold-blooded killer. Or was he?”
When it comes to mafia romantic suspense story lines, I don’t like to say much in my reviews since the best part in truly enjoying the book is going through all the unsuspecting twist and turns, discovering revelations and experiencing the passion between a trained assassin and a mafia princess. Yes, there will be heartbreak, loss, passion, violence, revenge, and danger but there is also a raging inferno of desire and love. So if you are ready to experience a whirlwind of love and danger, then hold on tight as Blaire Drake tells the story of a mafia princess who is on the hunt for love and justice and of a trained assassin who is on the hunt for redemption, absolution, and love.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Blaire Drake
Blaire Drake. Immediately when I hear this author’s name, I think of her book, Dear Professor, which was wickedly sexy and steamy. And so when I found out that she was releasing another book, I knew I had to get my hands on it.
“My name, Adriana, was dark. My nickname, scuro, was dark. My life, a mafia princess, was dark. My father had no idea what he’d done. One day, he would pay. He would atone for his sins. I would make sure of it.”Unlike her first book which had the forbidden and sexy undertone, Hunter was very different. Though this book had the sexy element weaved into the story line, it wasn’t the main focus. This book was more a mafia suspense. Yes, Blaire Drake had incorporated a romance aspect but it was mainly more suspense in my opinion.
So what happens when the hunter becomes the prey? When a mafia princess makes her return and gets revenge on the man who ruined her life? Can the prey become the hunter?
“The boy I'd once loved was now a monster. Nothing more than a cold-blooded killer. Or was he?”When it comes to mafia romantic suspense story lines, I don’t like to say much in my reviews since the best part in truly enjoying the book is going through all the unsuspecting twist and turns, discovering revelations and experiencing the passion between a trained assassin and a mafia princess. Yes, there will be heartbreak, loss, passion, violence, revenge, and danger but there is also a raging inferno of desire and love. So if you are ready to experience a whirlwind of love and danger, then hold on tight as Blaire Drake tells the story of a mafia princess who is on the hunt for love and justice and of a trained assassin who is on the hunt for redemption, absolution, and love.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Blaire Drake
March 28, 2016
Adriana was once a Mafia princess. But when her father sold her body to pay-off a heavy debt, her mother stole her away during the night and she was raised in hiding. Now, years later, with the queen dead, the princess all grown up and her father determined to hide the fact that another claim to his ill-gotten throne still exists- a ruthless killer is sent to put an end to her life.
Hunter once loved a girl. But after her death he was left with a black hole in his heart and the only method he could use to cope was to become a violent and emotionless assassin. When he is sent on a mission to kill the girl he thought was dead he doesn’t know if he has it in him. Decisions will have to be made but one thing is certain: this will all end in blood.
The dynamic between Hunter and Addy made for a very interesting romance and apart from all the angst and tension you could shake a gun at, it was also filled with some great chemistry that resulted in explosive sexy times. Hunter is your typical alpha and though he feels fiercely protective towards Adriana, he is also torn between his heart and his sense of duty. Addy is strong and sassy and ready to take her rightful place at the throne but it is hard to trust Hunter, even if her heart and body are wildly attracted to him.
With so many players involved, each with their own stake in the game, it is hard to discern who can be trusted and who should be feared. This was an interesting read with lots of violence, intrigue and twists and as mentioned, some insane chemistry laced with moments of epic romance. As hot as it was fun, Hunter comes greatly recommended for those seeking a bit of thrilling action in their erotic romance.
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
Hunter once loved a girl. But after her death he was left with a black hole in his heart and the only method he could use to cope was to become a violent and emotionless assassin. When he is sent on a mission to kill the girl he thought was dead he doesn’t know if he has it in him. Decisions will have to be made but one thing is certain: this will all end in blood.
The dynamic between Hunter and Addy made for a very interesting romance and apart from all the angst and tension you could shake a gun at, it was also filled with some great chemistry that resulted in explosive sexy times. Hunter is your typical alpha and though he feels fiercely protective towards Adriana, he is also torn between his heart and his sense of duty. Addy is strong and sassy and ready to take her rightful place at the throne but it is hard to trust Hunter, even if her heart and body are wildly attracted to him.
With so many players involved, each with their own stake in the game, it is hard to discern who can be trusted and who should be feared. This was an interesting read with lots of violence, intrigue and twists and as mentioned, some insane chemistry laced with moments of epic romance. As hot as it was fun, Hunter comes greatly recommended for those seeking a bit of thrilling action in their erotic romance.
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
March 23, 2016
☆ I received an ARC via Inkslinger PR in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ☆
What would you do if you were woken up in the middle of the night and given the choice of your freedom or being collateral for your father? Well, for Alexandria Romano, the Queen of the Romano mafia, her daughter's life is not up for negotiation and she'll do whatever it takes to keep her daughter safe. Even if that means stealing away in the night and disappearing. For now. Until she take her revenge on her no good, tyrannical husband.
Now years later, and with the Queen dead and the Princess all grown up, Adrianna, is tired of hiding and knows that her time is winding down until her father's people track her down to kill her. It's only a matter of time until her father's #1 hitman comes to take her out.
Enter Hunter Rosso. Hunter Rosso is the most notorious assassin for Adrianna's father, Enzo Romano, and has gilded the reputation of being both ruthless and deadly. That is, until, he is given the task of killing the ghost of a girl he once loved-- and of whom he believed to be dead.
Murdering people has always been Hunter's strong point. But, killing the love of his life would destroy him.
And with Adrianna planning on taking out her own father and claiming what's rightfully hers, love and loyalties will be tested in blood, mayhem, and grit. How far is she willing to risk when its not just her life on the line, but those she loves?
This was an interesting story--- with nothing wrong with it, although some parts I did skim and want the pacing to speed up a little.
I'm actually hoping that there will be a book sequel as I would love the author to expand on some of the other characters as well. But, I'm sure time will tell if author Blaire Drake decides to indulge on my wishes... ;)
What would you do if you were woken up in the middle of the night and given the choice of your freedom or being collateral for your father? Well, for Alexandria Romano, the Queen of the Romano mafia, her daughter's life is not up for negotiation and she'll do whatever it takes to keep her daughter safe. Even if that means stealing away in the night and disappearing. For now. Until she take her revenge on her no good, tyrannical husband.
Now years later, and with the Queen dead and the Princess all grown up, Adrianna, is tired of hiding and knows that her time is winding down until her father's people track her down to kill her. It's only a matter of time until her father's #1 hitman comes to take her out.
Enter Hunter Rosso. Hunter Rosso is the most notorious assassin for Adrianna's father, Enzo Romano, and has gilded the reputation of being both ruthless and deadly. That is, until, he is given the task of killing the ghost of a girl he once loved-- and of whom he believed to be dead.
Murdering people has always been Hunter's strong point. But, killing the love of his life would destroy him.
And with Adrianna planning on taking out her own father and claiming what's rightfully hers, love and loyalties will be tested in blood, mayhem, and grit. How far is she willing to risk when its not just her life on the line, but those she loves?
This was an interesting story--- with nothing wrong with it, although some parts I did skim and want the pacing to speed up a little.
I'm actually hoping that there will be a book sequel as I would love the author to expand on some of the other characters as well. But, I'm sure time will tell if author Blaire Drake decides to indulge on my wishes... ;)
March 27, 2016
4.0 Princepessa & Cacciatore STARS!!!
What was life, really? It sure as hell wasn't a mixture of love and honesty. It was closer to a clusterfuck of bullshit and lies.
Hunter is my first Blaire Drake book and I would say, the author managed to deliver a good story with a good plot. This action filled drama of a mafia princess and her hunter is worth devouring.More than the panty wetting scenes and a damn hot lead that will make your panties melt, this story is raw,intense, heart gripping and just good that will make you captivated from the start 'til the end.
My name, Adriana, was dark. My nickname, scuro, was dark.
My life, a mafia princess, was dark.
My father had no idea what he’d done.
One day, he would pay.
He would atone for his sins.
I would make sure of it.
What will you do if you're a mafia princess and your bestfriend whom you love since you were young was sent to kill you?That same bestfriend whom you thought you'll marry someday?The bestfriend who promised to protect you?Much worse what if both of you have goals to pursue,what would likely to prevail?
Sneaking away from California and across the country. Into New York. Find the Hamptons house my father was happily living in... the one that belonged to me... And kill him.
Rage. It was everything. I was trained to be unfeeling. To be permanently numb. There was no emotion in my job. I was an assassin. Silent. Deadly.
Me or him? My life, or his? What did he value more? I don't know that either.
Holeeee shit!!!I honestly love this book. I'm a sucker for Mafia story and sure this one does not diasppoint. I love the portrayal of the characters and to be honest it was written flawlessly. Reading this made me on the edge and that adrenaline rush?wow!!I was just there reading planning to read just a chapter or two but I really can't put it down. The story as it progresses became more suspenseful. I like how the author make it's pacing not too fast nor too slow..just balanced. The writings too are full of emotion and was very descriptive. The characters are worth digging,not just the lead but the secondary ones too.
And did I say Hunter is hot???uh..uh..not just him but the scenes!!!wow!!!this author surely knows how to play a roller coaster ride of emotions. I will not talk much...You have to read this to know what I'm talking about, but just a glimpse though because I'm a tease like that ;)
“You still have time to make me stop. I meant it, Addy.” Two of his fingers trailed up the inside of my thigh, coming dangerously close to my wet pussy. “I don't want to ruin you. I don't play nice, but the second my mouth is on your cunt, I won't be fucking playing at all.”
Overall, I love this book and I'm so glad I was given an ARC. The experience that I went through with this is just awesome. Good job to the author!!If this is not a series yet??Please make it one since I wanted to know more about Gaige and Angelo.
Death? No. I didn't fear death. A part of me welcomed it. Welcomed the silence, the peace, the black abyss. I figured that when it came, I'd be Alice jumping down the rabbit hole, except there would be no Wonderland, only numbness.
April 27, 2016
3.5 stars.
March 24, 2016
Mafia princess vs the assassin vs the Godfather. What an intense ride! I'd not read anything like this book before. Sure, I'm Italian, so I've seen "The Godfather" movies and had an idea what to expect. So wrong. This book was one of those tales where you had no idea how it was going to end. Both the anti-hero and heroine were beyond complex. Their personalities were difficult, layered with past tragedies and present regrets. The smutty bits were wicked hot, but the dirty talk...that was where it was at! I love an alpha that can talk filth and still be sexy as sin. Fab read. I'd recommend to anyone who wants a fast paced, unusual love story with a whole lot of edge.
"From start to finish, Hunter was action packed, thoughtful, heat-filled, and an intensely wild ride! Watch our for Blaire Drake, she is a force to reckon with in the erotic romance world."
"From start to finish, Hunter was action packed, thoughtful, heat-filled, and an intensely wild ride! Watch our for Blaire Drake, she is a force to reckon with in the erotic romance world."
April 5, 2016
Hunter is a white hot thriller with an exquisite combination of danger, sex and intrigue.
I have a thing for dark, dangerous men—especially when they are tied to the mafia. It’s like my lady bits just spontaneously combust. And Hunter happens to be a perfect read for spontaneously combusting parts, panties on fire, and danger afoot! I feel like I was swept away into the perfect movie. Hot, hunky men. Strong, gorgeous women. Adventure. Guns. Blood. Oh, yessssss!
Anyone who’s ever loved and lost, or been betrayed, will understand Adriana Romano. She is sassy and strong and doesn’t lay her heart on the line for anyone. Revenge is a dish best served cold, or in her case, in the cold.
When you fall in love with your best friend at an early age like Carlo ‘Hunter’ Rosso and that love is ripped from you in a split second, your life is forever changed. Until the day you are summoned to kill the person you love.
I am not sure I’ll even be able to adequately articulate my feelings about this book. It’s movie magic, it’s fast-paced and intriguing. It’s the kind of book you start and don’t look up from until you finish it. Then you look around and take a deep breath. Then, you click back and hope for more. Because by the end, you crave more. Just more.
Now Gaige, Angelo… maybe? Baby? Please?? ~ Heather, 5 Dangerous stars
~~~
Hunter is the second book I have read of Blaire Drake’s and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was dark and twisted, hot and sexy, and oh so good!
Adriana is a kick-ass heroine. She is a mafia princess who is feisty and sassy and doesn’t take shit from anyone. After being taken away from her home when she was thirteen, she has lived a good life. But she still missed her Hunter.
Hunter aka Carlo was the first boy she ever loved. He protected her throughout childhood and when she disappeared, he was torn apart. With nothing to live for, he became her father’s assassin. He was a monster trained to kill anyone and everyone.
“The boy I’d once loved was now a monster. Nothing more than a cold-blooded killer.”
So what happens when Hunter is sent to kill Adriana and her mother, the Queen?
“It was fucking wrong. I shouldn’t have a goddamn hard on over her. I was supposed to kill her…Not kiss her and get a boner.”
I loved Adriana and Hunter together! They knew to how to push each other’s buttons which was just hot. This story had quite a few twists and turns, and you never knew who was on whose side. I couldn’t put it down! I definitely look forward to more from Ms. Drake! ~ Tiffany, 4 stars
I have a thing for dark, dangerous men—especially when they are tied to the mafia. It’s like my lady bits just spontaneously combust. And Hunter happens to be a perfect read for spontaneously combusting parts, panties on fire, and danger afoot! I feel like I was swept away into the perfect movie. Hot, hunky men. Strong, gorgeous women. Adventure. Guns. Blood. Oh, yessssss!
Anyone who’s ever loved and lost, or been betrayed, will understand Adriana Romano. She is sassy and strong and doesn’t lay her heart on the line for anyone. Revenge is a dish best served cold, or in her case, in the cold.
When you fall in love with your best friend at an early age like Carlo ‘Hunter’ Rosso and that love is ripped from you in a split second, your life is forever changed. Until the day you are summoned to kill the person you love.
I am not sure I’ll even be able to adequately articulate my feelings about this book. It’s movie magic, it’s fast-paced and intriguing. It’s the kind of book you start and don’t look up from until you finish it. Then you look around and take a deep breath. Then, you click back and hope for more. Because by the end, you crave more. Just more.
Now Gaige, Angelo… maybe? Baby? Please?? ~ Heather, 5 Dangerous stars
~~~
Hunter is the second book I have read of Blaire Drake’s and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was dark and twisted, hot and sexy, and oh so good!
Adriana is a kick-ass heroine. She is a mafia princess who is feisty and sassy and doesn’t take shit from anyone. After being taken away from her home when she was thirteen, she has lived a good life. But she still missed her Hunter.
Hunter aka Carlo was the first boy she ever loved. He protected her throughout childhood and when she disappeared, he was torn apart. With nothing to live for, he became her father’s assassin. He was a monster trained to kill anyone and everyone.
“The boy I’d once loved was now a monster. Nothing more than a cold-blooded killer.”
So what happens when Hunter is sent to kill Adriana and her mother, the Queen?
“It was fucking wrong. I shouldn’t have a goddamn hard on over her. I was supposed to kill her…Not kiss her and get a boner.”
I loved Adriana and Hunter together! They knew to how to push each other’s buttons which was just hot. This story had quite a few twists and turns, and you never knew who was on whose side. I couldn’t put it down! I definitely look forward to more from Ms. Drake! ~ Tiffany, 4 stars
March 27, 2016
Addictive, suspenseful and freakin HOT! The Princess is kick ass and Hunter won my heart. Full review to come!
March 28, 2016
I was intrigued by this book from the start. I love Mafia books. The crime, the suspense, the angst...all of it. I couldn't wait to dive in.
Adrianna Romono was born a Mafia princess. Her mother was the Queen. Due to a horrific decision her father makes, Adrianna and her mother go on the run at age thirteen. She leaves behind a mafia princess enchanted life and the boy who she was inseparable from.
Carlo "Hunter" Rosso believes his best friend and childhood love is dead. Until he finds out that she isn't and her father has ordered him to kill her and her mother. He's become a ruthless assassin for her father. Thus begins the journey of old wounds, damaged souls and potential hope.
I had a little bit of a problem connecting with Adrianna sometimes. At one point, she's this head strong woman, ready to take on her Mafia boss father and then she's suddenly unsure and comes off a little meek. It was contradicting, which is normal for people but it kept me from truly connecting with her at all times. I liked the take control and don't take any crap Adrianna.
Hunter. Oh, Hunter. He's been a love struck puppy with Adriana since they were kids. You can see his turmoil throughout the entire book. His struggle between the man he is now and the boy who always loved her.
"She calmed the tornado that was my soul, and she had no idea."
I really liked him. The only thing that set me back a little with him was how quickly he was to trust people. It looked like he was super cautious but sometimes his heart put blinders on him.
Overall, I liked it. If you are looking for a solid Mafia book, pick this up and try it.
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
Adrianna Romono was born a Mafia princess. Her mother was the Queen. Due to a horrific decision her father makes, Adrianna and her mother go on the run at age thirteen. She leaves behind a mafia princess enchanted life and the boy who she was inseparable from.
Carlo "Hunter" Rosso believes his best friend and childhood love is dead. Until he finds out that she isn't and her father has ordered him to kill her and her mother. He's become a ruthless assassin for her father. Thus begins the journey of old wounds, damaged souls and potential hope.
I had a little bit of a problem connecting with Adrianna sometimes. At one point, she's this head strong woman, ready to take on her Mafia boss father and then she's suddenly unsure and comes off a little meek. It was contradicting, which is normal for people but it kept me from truly connecting with her at all times. I liked the take control and don't take any crap Adrianna.
Hunter. Oh, Hunter. He's been a love struck puppy with Adriana since they were kids. You can see his turmoil throughout the entire book. His struggle between the man he is now and the boy who always loved her.
"She calmed the tornado that was my soul, and she had no idea."
I really liked him. The only thing that set me back a little with him was how quickly he was to trust people. It looked like he was super cautious but sometimes his heart put blinders on him.
Overall, I liked it. If you are looking for a solid Mafia book, pick this up and try it.
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
March 31, 2016
After really enjoying Blaire Drake's first book "Dear Professor" , I was curious to read her new release Hunter. This one of course was a whole different pretense. Hunter started with a girl and her mother disappearing off in the middle of the night , then flipped to ten years later. Ten years ago, Adriana aka Addy and her mother Alexandria discovered that her father had sold her off as part of a debt and in order to save Addy, her mother planned for them to escape and run away and be safe which they had for ten years . Addy is known as the Princess of a Mafia clan. Her mother was the Queen as it ran in her bloodlines but her father wanted to be the Don and be the one in charge and as long as Addy and her mother were alive that would never happen. Flip to present time and Addy is now 23 years old and her mother has been dead for the past couple of years, she finally thought she had nothing to worry about. Though things are about to change as her father has discovered that they are alive and has sent his best assassin to kill them . Hunter aka Carlo has been an assassin for Addy's father since he was young and is the best there is and now he has been sent to kill Addy and her mother. It's not going to be an easy task as Addy has not only protection but when they reconnect, the love and chemistry that they had when they were younger is still there and now that they are adults it's even stronger. With a three day deadline until her father sends someone else, can Hunter keep Addy safe and himself alive ? For me , I found the pace a bit slow for my liking as it started off really intense and exciting and then once we got to the twenty years later, it started to slow but if you love Mobster stories and Assassin tales then you will love Hunter by Blaire Drake.
March 22, 2016
If you are a fan of Mafia Romance books then this is the book for you!
Alexandria the queen of the Romano family took matters into her own hands and saved the person she loved the most, Adrianna. Years laters the princess has now become the queen and is ready to take her rightful place as boss of the family. Someone from Addy’s past comes into play and my derail her plans for the hostile takeover.
Hunter Russo, the assassin to Enzo Romano is given an assignment that shakes him to his core. To kill someone he thought was dead long ago and now after years of not feeling those feels come back in full force. The problem is he is not that teenager he was before oh no he was colder, harder and facing a major dilemma. Her life or his.
this book has some dark aspects to it but it does not go in depth into it but it is put out their. Their is also a one sided triangle I felt so bad for him. being a mafia romance book this will keep you on the edge of your seat waiting for what happens next. I will say it again this author can write a good story. Their was enough background information and the characters developed beautifully. The story flowed well even with the flashbacks it kept a steady pace.
ARC was provided by the author in exchange for a honest review.
Alexandria the queen of the Romano family took matters into her own hands and saved the person she loved the most, Adrianna. Years laters the princess has now become the queen and is ready to take her rightful place as boss of the family. Someone from Addy’s past comes into play and my derail her plans for the hostile takeover.
Hunter Russo, the assassin to Enzo Romano is given an assignment that shakes him to his core. To kill someone he thought was dead long ago and now after years of not feeling those feels come back in full force. The problem is he is not that teenager he was before oh no he was colder, harder and facing a major dilemma. Her life or his.
this book has some dark aspects to it but it does not go in depth into it but it is put out their. Their is also a one sided triangle I felt so bad for him. being a mafia romance book this will keep you on the edge of your seat waiting for what happens next. I will say it again this author can write a good story. Their was enough background information and the characters developed beautifully. The story flowed well even with the flashbacks it kept a steady pace.
ARC was provided by the author in exchange for a honest review.
March 22, 2016
** ARC provided by the author for an honest review **
What happens when the hunter becomes the prey? When one women holds the power to both destroy and redeem a man who's lost his soul?
Adriana had a childhood no child should ever be subjected to. Knowing only fear, darkness and evil. One boy was the only source of light and love until they were parted and one day her savoir became her executioner.
A life on the run and years later these two come together. Hunter has been given orders that if he carries out will be the final nail in his coffin. What I mean by that is that there will never be a chance for him being a human again. Hunter is faced with an unspeakable choice. What happens after the choice is made is a story filled with violence, loss, heartache, love, passion, retribution and redemption.
How far will the hunter go to come back from the depths of evil? Will one girl get back all the things she has lost and been denied to her? How will love overcome?
Read this thrilling, heart pounding, sexy and dark read and find out.
What happens when the hunter becomes the prey? When one women holds the power to both destroy and redeem a man who's lost his soul?
Adriana had a childhood no child should ever be subjected to. Knowing only fear, darkness and evil. One boy was the only source of light and love until they were parted and one day her savoir became her executioner.
A life on the run and years later these two come together. Hunter has been given orders that if he carries out will be the final nail in his coffin. What I mean by that is that there will never be a chance for him being a human again. Hunter is faced with an unspeakable choice. What happens after the choice is made is a story filled with violence, loss, heartache, love, passion, retribution and redemption.
How far will the hunter go to come back from the depths of evil? Will one girl get back all the things she has lost and been denied to her? How will love overcome?
Read this thrilling, heart pounding, sexy and dark read and find out.
March 20, 2016
******************MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS****************
Hunter, oh Hunter I loved him, but the boy always knew how to point out the obvious, "I picked up the box and looked at it. Slowly, I looked back at her. “So let me get this straight. You want to travel across the country, kill your father, and take over a multi-million dollar family business that deals in very dark, very illegal practices, but you can't set up a disposable cell phone?” Hunter is seriously the king of smart-a**ery, “really,” I drawled, relishing the hot water beating against the back of my neck. “You walk in here stark naked, drop to your knees to suck my ***k, and then you're surprised when I eff the hell outta you.” I really liked this book, Hunter could be scary at times but that boy was whipped where Addy was concerned.
May 6, 2016
Find this review and more at Ramblings From This Chick
Hunter is the second book I have read from Blaire Drake, and I really enjoyed it! This standalone story had a lot of action and steam, and I liked the characters a lot. I am already looking forward to reading more from Blaire Drake and I hope that she writes more in this world.
Adriana and her mother fled when she was a child after her mob boss father sold her. With just her mom and the man that became like a father to her, Adriana left behind her best friend and first love Hunter. Now ten years later, Carlo "Hunter" Rosso is her father's assassin and has been sent to kill her after learning that she didn't die ten years prior as he had been told. But Adriana is determined to take the throne since the mafia blood is on her mother's side and was never her father's to have.
I really liked both Addy and Hunter. These two had a ton of chemistry and history, and I really liked how they had so much between them even after all the time that they were apart. They were both different people than they were as kids though, and each had a lot to learn about who they had become. Addy was strong and determined and I liked her a lot. Hunter had a darkness to him from all that he had been through and done, yet when it came to Addy he had a vulnerable and softer side that was good to see as well. While I felt their connection was still strong after all the time that had passed, I would have liked to have seen them spending a bit more time together and reconnecting. There was quite a bit of push and pull between them, and I never felt like we got to see them fully reconnect here.
I think part of the reason that I felt like we didn't get to see them reconnect as much as I would have liked is because the focus seemed to be more on the suspense and mafia action here than the romance. The romance almost felt like a sub-plot rather than what was driving the story. I had hoped that we would get to see more development when it came to the romance and Hunter and Addy's relationship, but that didn't happen as much as I would have liked. I will say that I did like them together when they weren't pushing each other away or focusing on all that they had been through, and I liked where things ended. I just would have liked to have been given more of them actually working on their relationship and seeing how they made the transition to more. I really hope that we get more in this world though as I said before. Addy's friends Angelo and Gaige were great, and I would love to get more of each of them! If you like some steam and suspense, I would definitely give this one a shot. Just make sure that you know that this isn't stricly a romance novel, and that the suspense and action portion is quite a bit of the story before diving in.
**ARC Provided by Inkslinger PR**
Hunter is the second book I have read from Blaire Drake, and I really enjoyed it! This standalone story had a lot of action and steam, and I liked the characters a lot. I am already looking forward to reading more from Blaire Drake and I hope that she writes more in this world.
Adriana and her mother fled when she was a child after her mob boss father sold her. With just her mom and the man that became like a father to her, Adriana left behind her best friend and first love Hunter. Now ten years later, Carlo "Hunter" Rosso is her father's assassin and has been sent to kill her after learning that she didn't die ten years prior as he had been told. But Adriana is determined to take the throne since the mafia blood is on her mother's side and was never her father's to have.
I really liked both Addy and Hunter. These two had a ton of chemistry and history, and I really liked how they had so much between them even after all the time that they were apart. They were both different people than they were as kids though, and each had a lot to learn about who they had become. Addy was strong and determined and I liked her a lot. Hunter had a darkness to him from all that he had been through and done, yet when it came to Addy he had a vulnerable and softer side that was good to see as well. While I felt their connection was still strong after all the time that had passed, I would have liked to have seen them spending a bit more time together and reconnecting. There was quite a bit of push and pull between them, and I never felt like we got to see them fully reconnect here.
I think part of the reason that I felt like we didn't get to see them reconnect as much as I would have liked is because the focus seemed to be more on the suspense and mafia action here than the romance. The romance almost felt like a sub-plot rather than what was driving the story. I had hoped that we would get to see more development when it came to the romance and Hunter and Addy's relationship, but that didn't happen as much as I would have liked. I will say that I did like them together when they weren't pushing each other away or focusing on all that they had been through, and I liked where things ended. I just would have liked to have been given more of them actually working on their relationship and seeing how they made the transition to more. I really hope that we get more in this world though as I said before. Addy's friends Angelo and Gaige were great, and I would love to get more of each of them! If you like some steam and suspense, I would definitely give this one a shot. Just make sure that you know that this isn't stricly a romance novel, and that the suspense and action portion is quite a bit of the story before diving in.
**ARC Provided by Inkslinger PR**
March 29, 2016
*I received an ARC from InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review*
Thank you so much InkSlinger PR for sending me a copy of this book! I was so happy to see it on my kindle!! I'm honored and grateful!! This is going down as a favorite of 2016! <3
5 stars!!!
I'm quite drawn to mafia romance books and this one immediately caught my eye. This is a mafia book done right and I loved every bloody second of it. It was so intense at times i'd have to put down my Kindle and just breathe for a moment. The world Ms. Drake created is one that's sexy, terrifying at times, and very engaging. I learned how to say a lot of cuss words in Italian so that is an extra bonus. ;) I wish i was Hunter's Principessa. This is one of those books you can't put down until you reach the last page. I loved the writing style and how it kept me hooked from the beginning of the story so i'm definitely going to be checking out more of Ms. Drake's work!
Adriana Romano 'Addy' was a character that in one second could be a total sweetheart then she could scare you silent with just one word. She became stronger the more the story progressed. I was thrilled when she took matters into her own hands. Addy was sassy , funny, and strong-willed. She was a kick butt heroine that demanded respect. The friendship between her and Gaige really warmed my heart. Also, her cat Rossi is my favorite pet from any book of all time! Their encounters together had me in tears.
Carlo 'Hunter' Rosso was a character that was so ruthless and at times cold hearted. He had no remorse for the things he did. It was entertaining to see him challenge Adriana and how similar yet different they were. She showed him his true worth and that he was defined by more than just the life he led. He was funny, sweet when he wanted to be, intimidating, and most of the time frustrating. He surprised me and I really dug this cold blooded bad boy. I'm glad I got to experience what he was going through as well. He's definitely a new favorite book boyfriend of mine.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for an action pack read that deals with the mafia and a love that is so wrong it's right. Bump this up on your TBR list and One click this bad boy right now! Can Gaige have his own book too? I adored that ladies man. 5 stars all around!
Thank you so much InkSlinger PR for sending me a copy of this book! I was so happy to see it on my kindle!! I'm honored and grateful!! This is going down as a favorite of 2016! <3
5 stars!!!
I'm quite drawn to mafia romance books and this one immediately caught my eye. This is a mafia book done right and I loved every bloody second of it. It was so intense at times i'd have to put down my Kindle and just breathe for a moment. The world Ms. Drake created is one that's sexy, terrifying at times, and very engaging. I learned how to say a lot of cuss words in Italian so that is an extra bonus. ;) I wish i was Hunter's Principessa. This is one of those books you can't put down until you reach the last page. I loved the writing style and how it kept me hooked from the beginning of the story so i'm definitely going to be checking out more of Ms. Drake's work!
Adriana Romano 'Addy' was a character that in one second could be a total sweetheart then she could scare you silent with just one word. She became stronger the more the story progressed. I was thrilled when she took matters into her own hands. Addy was sassy , funny, and strong-willed. She was a kick butt heroine that demanded respect. The friendship between her and Gaige really warmed my heart. Also, her cat Rossi is my favorite pet from any book of all time! Their encounters together had me in tears.
Carlo 'Hunter' Rosso was a character that was so ruthless and at times cold hearted. He had no remorse for the things he did. It was entertaining to see him challenge Adriana and how similar yet different they were. She showed him his true worth and that he was defined by more than just the life he led. He was funny, sweet when he wanted to be, intimidating, and most of the time frustrating. He surprised me and I really dug this cold blooded bad boy. I'm glad I got to experience what he was going through as well. He's definitely a new favorite book boyfriend of mine.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for an action pack read that deals with the mafia and a love that is so wrong it's right. Bump this up on your TBR list and One click this bad boy right now! Can Gaige have his own book too? I adored that ladies man. 5 stars all around!
April 1, 2016
In the mafia, family is everything; blood is the only thing that matters. For Adriana, though, her blood is exactly why she becomes a pawn in a power play, and for her safety, her mother, the mafia queen, hides her away from anyone who can harm her. But 10 years later, Adriana’s life is once again in jeopardy, and with her mother’s death, the only person she can trust is herself because the boy who had always protected her, cared for her, and fought her battles for her becomes the assassin whose been ordered to end her life, forcing both of them to figure out where his loyalty lies and if there’s anything left of the boy who loved her underneath the soulless monster that’s been created.
Hunter is a story of double crossing, lies, and manipulation – darkness and demons reign over all parts of the storyline, and it’s hard to tell who to trust and who’s willing to shoot you in the back. There’s a lot of history between the hunter and his prey that complicates not only Hunter’s mission but also the steps that need to be taken for Adriana to reclaim the empire that has always been hers.
Blaire Drake clearly illustrates Hunter’s tortured soul through his nightmares and fears. Being owned by a sadistic bastard and losing the one person who kept his heart alive turned Carlo into a cold-blooded killer. His demons run rampant and the only one who seems to quiet them is the one person he’s been told to kill. Hunter is a bit of a contradiction and the dual parts of his personality are showcased throughout the text as he makes decisions that both hurt and heal Adriana.
Adriana is definitely a strong heroine, and even though she hasn’t had many opportunities to prove her strength when she knows she no longer has a choice, but to reclaim her mother’s business by taking out her father, she shows exactly what she’s made of and why Mafioso Principessa is the perfect name to describe her.
While Adriana and Hunter’s relationship heats up throughout the text, the focus of the storyline is more on keeping Adriana alive and ending the reign of terror of her power hungry father. The suspense is written well, and it remains unclear who’s on whose side until all details are revealed, causing readers to be on edge as they work to figure out who Adriana can trust and if she’s going to make her father pay and her mother proud.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Hunter is a story of double crossing, lies, and manipulation – darkness and demons reign over all parts of the storyline, and it’s hard to tell who to trust and who’s willing to shoot you in the back. There’s a lot of history between the hunter and his prey that complicates not only Hunter’s mission but also the steps that need to be taken for Adriana to reclaim the empire that has always been hers.
Blaire Drake clearly illustrates Hunter’s tortured soul through his nightmares and fears. Being owned by a sadistic bastard and losing the one person who kept his heart alive turned Carlo into a cold-blooded killer. His demons run rampant and the only one who seems to quiet them is the one person he’s been told to kill. Hunter is a bit of a contradiction and the dual parts of his personality are showcased throughout the text as he makes decisions that both hurt and heal Adriana.
Adriana is definitely a strong heroine, and even though she hasn’t had many opportunities to prove her strength when she knows she no longer has a choice, but to reclaim her mother’s business by taking out her father, she shows exactly what she’s made of and why Mafioso Principessa is the perfect name to describe her.
While Adriana and Hunter’s relationship heats up throughout the text, the focus of the storyline is more on keeping Adriana alive and ending the reign of terror of her power hungry father. The suspense is written well, and it remains unclear who’s on whose side until all details are revealed, causing readers to be on edge as they work to figure out who Adriana can trust and if she’s going to make her father pay and her mother proud.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
April 24, 2016
Give me a Mafia -related- book and I'm all in. I just love them. They are dangerous in their own way, and I am always alert and waiting for the other shoe to drop while reading. Mafia -related- books are full of adernaline , and never ending action.
“I might have forgotten what your voice sounds like and what it feels like when you touch me, but I'd never forget your eyes.” And my heart would never forget to skip a beat when he's close, and my soul would never forget to reach out for his. “I looked into them too many times to forget them.”
Hunter is one hell of an assasin -and a hunter-. I LOVED HIM! His emotions and feelings were a shocker. I didn't see him coming. He was a perfect surprise while reading. He had his own style and he was different. I loved the way he loved Adriana. He knew nothing but her and saw no one beyond her. He let her stew and be angry, but he pushed her harder than anyone. He didn't mind staying by her and giving her the stage all to herself.
He had more than one personality.
The assasin and the lover.
The human and the killer.
The boy, before and after Addy.
He looked everything like I remembered, but nothing like I dreamed.
I didn't like Adriana. She frustrated me. She was cold and I didn't feel the love towards Hunter. She was just so hung up on the future/power and the past. I didn't understand her and I didn't want to.
I couldn't connect with her.
I respected her confidence and strong personality. But I felt that Hunter deserved so much better.
He loved her too much to notice/care.
If any part of my dark soul wasn't tainted with blood, I was sure it was the part that still loved her.
I felt like something was missing through out the book. I liked it, but I didn't love it. I enjoyed it; but I was in no hurry to finish it. I struggled at some points to finish the book, but still something attracted me.
She looked like... peace. I knew she was anything but. She was chaos and danger and temptation threaded with darkness.
I needed more at the end. I felt like it was lacking something. It didn't blow me away or satisfy me. I felt like starting all over.
I guess that was the curse of loving your best friend. There was no one there to hold your hand when you had a broken heart.
Mafia is never easy. You can never come out alive. But Hunter stayed strong. He changed and developed. But she will always be his princess and he will always be her hunter.
“I might have forgotten what your voice sounds like and what it feels like when you touch me, but I'd never forget your eyes.” And my heart would never forget to skip a beat when he's close, and my soul would never forget to reach out for his. “I looked into them too many times to forget them.”
Hunter is one hell of an assasin -and a hunter-. I LOVED HIM! His emotions and feelings were a shocker. I didn't see him coming. He was a perfect surprise while reading. He had his own style and he was different. I loved the way he loved Adriana. He knew nothing but her and saw no one beyond her. He let her stew and be angry, but he pushed her harder than anyone. He didn't mind staying by her and giving her the stage all to herself.
He had more than one personality.
The assasin and the lover.
The human and the killer.
The boy, before and after Addy.
He looked everything like I remembered, but nothing like I dreamed.
I didn't like Adriana. She frustrated me. She was cold and I didn't feel the love towards Hunter. She was just so hung up on the future/power and the past. I didn't understand her and I didn't want to.
I couldn't connect with her.
I respected her confidence and strong personality. But I felt that Hunter deserved so much better.
He loved her too much to notice/care.
If any part of my dark soul wasn't tainted with blood, I was sure it was the part that still loved her.
I felt like something was missing through out the book. I liked it, but I didn't love it. I enjoyed it; but I was in no hurry to finish it. I struggled at some points to finish the book, but still something attracted me.
She looked like... peace. I knew she was anything but. She was chaos and danger and temptation threaded with darkness.
I needed more at the end. I felt like it was lacking something. It didn't blow me away or satisfy me. I felt like starting all over.
I guess that was the curse of loving your best friend. There was no one there to hold your hand when you had a broken heart.
Mafia is never easy. You can never come out alive. But Hunter stayed strong. He changed and developed. But she will always be his princess and he will always be her hunter.
March 31, 2016
What I liked:
The premise of the story: mother & daughter escape ruthless mafia husband and father. Father sends an assassin to find them and kill them. However, the assassin hired to kill them has a close tie to the mafia princess - they grew up best friends, he was her protector and now he has to kill her or he will be killed. But most of all, don't underestimate the queen...
I enjoyed reading how mother & daughter "escape" (albeit it was a very short scene) - there was a lot of action in this book but this part was the only "action" I actually liked. It was the only part of the book I felt any adrenaline.
What I didn't like was the execution of the premise! There was so much potential, but for me, this story fell short.
I was really looking for a kick-ass heroine but honestly, Adriana irritated the eff out of me. She was young and just so bratty - she didn't exude badassness that I thought she should've/could've. And she's supposed to head the mafia?
And then oh how I wish this book was proofread & edited better. The typos & grammar really got in the way. This book read like it was written by 3 different people quite honestly.
I did appreciate all the Italian translations though! If nothing else, this book will teach you how to swear in Italian like a pro! (No really, I really really liked this!!!)
The sex scenes were hot hot hot but not enough to save this book, unfortunately. Of course this is just my opinion.
The premise of the story: mother & daughter escape ruthless mafia husband and father. Father sends an assassin to find them and kill them. However, the assassin hired to kill them has a close tie to the mafia princess - they grew up best friends, he was her protector and now he has to kill her or he will be killed. But most of all, don't underestimate the queen...
I enjoyed reading how mother & daughter "escape" (albeit it was a very short scene) - there was a lot of action in this book but this part was the only "action" I actually liked. It was the only part of the book I felt any adrenaline.
What I didn't like was the execution of the premise! There was so much potential, but for me, this story fell short.
I was really looking for a kick-ass heroine but honestly, Adriana irritated the eff out of me. She was young and just so bratty - she didn't exude badassness that I thought she should've/could've. And she's supposed to head the mafia?
And then oh how I wish this book was proofread & edited better. The typos & grammar really got in the way. This book read like it was written by 3 different people quite honestly.
I did appreciate all the Italian translations though! If nothing else, this book will teach you how to swear in Italian like a pro! (No really, I really really liked this!!!)
The sex scenes were hot hot hot but not enough to save this book, unfortunately. Of course this is just my opinion.
March 28, 2016
4.5 wickedly hot, sexy, suspenseful stars.
Hunter from start to finish is a hot and heavy read that gripped me, stole my breath, made my heart pound and my head spin.
This book consumed me and it electrified me. A raw, intense buzz builds while reading Hunter. Tantalising twists and turns threw me off course and kept me fully addicted to each and every page, I devoured each and every word and loved each and every second.
Hunter himself is a deep, dark character that I was instantly drawn to. His spark and his passion grabbed me and help me captive so much so that the part near the ending nearly destroyed me. Adriana, is the epitome of girl power and strength. The connection Adriana and Hunter share is explosive, burning hot and real.
Mafia books usually aren't my thing, I read them but I don't always connect as all the families can sometimes confuse me and I lose track of the story but Blaire does a really good job of using that to an advantage and produces an intoxicating tantalising read.
Hunter from start to finish is a hot and heavy read that gripped me, stole my breath, made my heart pound and my head spin.
This book consumed me and it electrified me. A raw, intense buzz builds while reading Hunter. Tantalising twists and turns threw me off course and kept me fully addicted to each and every page, I devoured each and every word and loved each and every second.
Hunter himself is a deep, dark character that I was instantly drawn to. His spark and his passion grabbed me and help me captive so much so that the part near the ending nearly destroyed me. Adriana, is the epitome of girl power and strength. The connection Adriana and Hunter share is explosive, burning hot and real.
Mafia books usually aren't my thing, I read them but I don't always connect as all the families can sometimes confuse me and I lose track of the story but Blaire does a really good job of using that to an advantage and produces an intoxicating tantalising read.
March 24, 2016
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. To read more reviews like this one, check out Obsessive Book Nerd!
I found the synopsis of Hunter very intriguing. I just wish I would have enjoyed it more. I really liked the book, at first, then I started to get bored. I guess, with books about the mafia, the characters have to be dominating, untrustworthy and rough around the edges. I mean, duh right? Don't get me wrong, I expected it, but soon as I thought a character felt "normal", they'd go and do or say something that just made me not like them.
While I did find myself speed reading through some parts, the story was good. The pacing was a little slow in parts. But I think the downfall for me was the character development. I just didn't love Adriana and Hunter.
I found the synopsis of Hunter very intriguing. I just wish I would have enjoyed it more. I really liked the book, at first, then I started to get bored. I guess, with books about the mafia, the characters have to be dominating, untrustworthy and rough around the edges. I mean, duh right? Don't get me wrong, I expected it, but soon as I thought a character felt "normal", they'd go and do or say something that just made me not like them.
While I did find myself speed reading through some parts, the story was good. The pacing was a little slow in parts. But I think the downfall for me was the character development. I just didn't love Adriana and Hunter.
March 21, 2016
"Death? No. I didn't fear death. A part of me welcomed it. Welcomed the silence, the peace, the black abyss. I figured that when it came, I'd be Alice jumping down the rabbit hole, except there would be no Wonderland, only numbness."
"People change, and so does love. I did't want a gentle brush of his fingertips on my skin. I wanted a bruising grasp on my hips. I didn't want a delicate kiss. I wanted my bottom lip bitten. I didn't want my heart stolen. I wanted my breath fucked out me. I didn't want the boy I fell for. I wanted the man he was."
Full review to come!
"People change, and so does love. I did't want a gentle brush of his fingertips on my skin. I wanted a bruising grasp on my hips. I didn't want a delicate kiss. I wanted my bottom lip bitten. I didn't want my heart stolen. I wanted my breath fucked out me. I didn't want the boy I fell for. I wanted the man he was."
Full review to come!
March 28, 2016
DNF @ chapter twelve.
The blurb says "... What he didn’t know was that the queen was dead, and the princess had taken her throne. Blood didn’t lie. It smeared, distorted, stained. But it didn’t lie.
My father was going to learn the hard way that the empire he’d stolen belonged to me..."
There was no strong queen in this book. Not one bit. She was weak and boring and I was waiting for her to die.
The blurb says "... What he didn’t know was that the queen was dead, and the princess had taken her throne. Blood didn’t lie. It smeared, distorted, stained. But it didn’t lie.
My father was going to learn the hard way that the empire he’d stolen belonged to me..."
There was no strong queen in this book. Not one bit. She was weak and boring and I was waiting for her to die.
April 5, 2016
I had higher hopes for this book. It was pretty well written, but it was still missing something that could have made it better. It wasn't bad by any means - far from it - but it wasn't amazing either.
WHO IN THE WORLD IS THIS AUTHOR? I have some ideas, but I will keep it to myself until s/he reveals their own identity.
WHO IN THE WORLD IS THIS AUTHOR? I have some ideas, but I will keep it to myself until s/he reveals their own identity.
October 20, 2017
3 stars
It started out well but then declined afterwards. I liked the hero but i hated the heroine, she just got on my nerves as the book went along. I ended up rushing through it after the 57% mark.
The first half was passionate and funny with their continuous banters and the love-hate background. The characters came out as strong and determined but then the heroine messed the other half of the book with her TSTL moments which were just too much and if i first view her as strong,she just ended up being a big talker. She bragged about being strong but hid behind the hero durring most of the action scenes. She didn't prove she was worth the hero. He was strong but still admitted his faults.
I Finally gave 3 stars only because of carlo" hunter" who ended up being a hero worth reading.
It started out well but then declined afterwards. I liked the hero but i hated the heroine, she just got on my nerves as the book went along. I ended up rushing through it after the 57% mark.
The first half was passionate and funny with their continuous banters and the love-hate background. The characters came out as strong and determined but then the heroine messed the other half of the book with her TSTL moments which were just too much and if i first view her as strong,she just ended up being a big talker. She bragged about being strong but hid behind the hero durring most of the action scenes. She didn't prove she was worth the hero. He was strong but still admitted his faults.
I Finally gave 3 stars only because of carlo" hunter" who ended up being a hero worth reading.
December 1, 2018
I have never read a mafia book that I enjoyed and found really good- was really hoping this would be the one because I loved Drake's other book, but it was not to be. I'm just fed up with these angst filled, pretentious characters who tell each a lot about how badass and awesome and scary they are but never actually do anything remotely awe-inspiring??? Why does every book have these same characters??? Is this the first lesson they teach you in Steamy-Angsty-Mafia-Romance101??
March 30, 2016
LEEANN'S REVIEW
4 STARS
This book literally hits the ground running & continues to be fast paced almost all the way through. In the middle it slows down a bit, but then it picks up again &
continues all the way through to the end.
So Addy is a teenage mafia princess.. Who is on the run with her mother, the mafia queen. The only way to get their lives back is to kill her father.
Easier said than done.
Now Addy is an adult and has had a few assasination attempts against her, she has decided it is time to come up with a plan & get her life back.
Hunter was Addy’s best friend growing up, he is now her fathers top assasinator. He was sent to kill her. Now he finds he is helping her.
As with all good not well thought out plans, thisngs don’t quite work out how they expected. In fact things go from bad t worse, and then worse again and neither of them
Know if they will make oit out alive.
There isn’t a lot of humour on this book. It is more on the dark side. There is lots of sexy & lots of action packed drama. These are 2 young people who essetially are victims of circumstance.
They are also young and in love and we all know when you are fighting for your life, this is not always a great combination. During their journey they each dicover a lot about themselves
and by the end you can see how this had made them not only stronger individuals, but also a stronger couple. Although this is a work of fiction, I know most authors that write this genre tend to
do quite a bit of research into the workings of the mafia & it is really scary that they will not hesitate to kill their own blood if it is deemed necessary.
As Addy & Hunter are both young they have a lot of growing up to do & a very short time in which to do it. The authors writing allowed them to develop at an age appropriate rate which is great. You
didn’t get to the end and suddenly have them behaving like 50 year olds. I really liked that. I also liked that although they found themselves in violent situations, they always managed to maintain a level
of common sense & keep their wits about them.
If you have some time up your sleeve & enyou reading books that are a bit on the darker side but not too over the top that you don’t know if you want to finish then you will enjoy this one.
It is fast paced, has shades of dark and light in is a gerally good entertaining story, then I recommend you one click it & get reading!!
TRACY'S REVIEW
3.5 STARS
Adriana was the princess of a mafia family. 10 years ago in the middle of the night her and her mother went on the run from her father. The man who wanted to sell the body of his own daughter. Leaving behind Carlo, the man she loved and her father’s right hand man. Now 10 years later, and her mother dead, she became the one person she wanted to be. The queen. With her father ordering her death, he will realize who actually rules the family. And who will control Carlo the “Hunter”.
I have gone back and forth on this review. While I did like the story I found that some parts were a little slow moving. I am not one for mafia stories, half the time I think they depict the wrong side of the mob. But this one was different for me since it was more about the female line within the family. I am a sucker for a bad ass female who takes what she wants, and in this case that happened to be a very sexy mafia man. So I suppose it was a win win for me!
4 STARS
This book literally hits the ground running & continues to be fast paced almost all the way through. In the middle it slows down a bit, but then it picks up again &
continues all the way through to the end.
So Addy is a teenage mafia princess.. Who is on the run with her mother, the mafia queen. The only way to get their lives back is to kill her father.
Easier said than done.
Now Addy is an adult and has had a few assasination attempts against her, she has decided it is time to come up with a plan & get her life back.
Hunter was Addy’s best friend growing up, he is now her fathers top assasinator. He was sent to kill her. Now he finds he is helping her.
As with all good not well thought out plans, thisngs don’t quite work out how they expected. In fact things go from bad t worse, and then worse again and neither of them
Know if they will make oit out alive.
There isn’t a lot of humour on this book. It is more on the dark side. There is lots of sexy & lots of action packed drama. These are 2 young people who essetially are victims of circumstance.
They are also young and in love and we all know when you are fighting for your life, this is not always a great combination. During their journey they each dicover a lot about themselves
and by the end you can see how this had made them not only stronger individuals, but also a stronger couple. Although this is a work of fiction, I know most authors that write this genre tend to
do quite a bit of research into the workings of the mafia & it is really scary that they will not hesitate to kill their own blood if it is deemed necessary.
As Addy & Hunter are both young they have a lot of growing up to do & a very short time in which to do it. The authors writing allowed them to develop at an age appropriate rate which is great. You
didn’t get to the end and suddenly have them behaving like 50 year olds. I really liked that. I also liked that although they found themselves in violent situations, they always managed to maintain a level
of common sense & keep their wits about them.
If you have some time up your sleeve & enyou reading books that are a bit on the darker side but not too over the top that you don’t know if you want to finish then you will enjoy this one.
It is fast paced, has shades of dark and light in is a gerally good entertaining story, then I recommend you one click it & get reading!!
TRACY'S REVIEW
3.5 STARS
Adriana was the princess of a mafia family. 10 years ago in the middle of the night her and her mother went on the run from her father. The man who wanted to sell the body of his own daughter. Leaving behind Carlo, the man she loved and her father’s right hand man. Now 10 years later, and her mother dead, she became the one person she wanted to be. The queen. With her father ordering her death, he will realize who actually rules the family. And who will control Carlo the “Hunter”.
I have gone back and forth on this review. While I did like the story I found that some parts were a little slow moving. I am not one for mafia stories, half the time I think they depict the wrong side of the mob. But this one was different for me since it was more about the female line within the family. I am a sucker for a bad ass female who takes what she wants, and in this case that happened to be a very sexy mafia man. So I suppose it was a win win for me!
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