What do you think?
Rate this book
DeLuca Duet #2
Worth of Waste
DeLuca Duet, Part Two
The Chicago Mob is the same as it has always been—violent, greedy, and excessive. The Outfit families have turned their backs when they were needed the most one too many times, but Dino DeLuca didn’t expect anything different.
His whole life has been lived for the Outfit—for his family.
He has a whole new set of reasons to live and fight now.
Karen Martin makes Dino change all the rules.
He’s finally ready to show everyone just how much waste is truly worth in the mafia, and just how far one will go for freedom from it all.
He’s learned these lessons well.
Too well.
Author’s Note: The DeLuca Duet is a standalone duet with a HEA ending that can be read independently.
The Chicago Mob is the same as it has always been—violent, greedy, and excessive. The Outfit families have turned their backs when they were needed the most one too many times, but Dino DeLuca didn’t expect anything different.
His whole life has been lived for the Outfit—for his family.
He has a whole new set of reasons to live and fight now.
Karen Martin makes Dino change all the rules.
He’s finally ready to show everyone just how much waste is truly worth in the mafia, and just how far one will go for freedom from it all.
He’s learned these lessons well.
Too well.
Author’s Note: The DeLuca Duet is a standalone duet with a HEA ending that can be read independently.
233 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2017
40 people are currently reading
637 people want to read
About the author
Bethany-Kris
107 books4,259 followersThe author of too many novels to count, Bethany-Kris is a Canadian, lover of much, and mother to four sons, a glaring of cats, and a pack of dogs. A small town in Eastern Canada where she was born and raised is where she has always called home. With her boys under her feet, a snuggling cat, barking dogs, and a spouse calling over his shoulder, she is nearly always writing something ... when she can find the time.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
February 10, 2019
3.75 Stars
Ce l'hai fatta, Dino!
Not many authors are capable of writing a credible mafia love story. More often than not, mafia romances are just cliche love stories with a few mafia terms thrown here and there. But Bethany-Kris has created her own fictional mafia world so authentic that it feels like watching a good mafia movie. I’m really looking forward to reading the rest of her books.
If you’re looking for a typical insta-lovish dominant alpha mafia story, you won’t find it here. This duet is quite a realistic slow burn romance with a complex mafia background story. That is exactly why I enjoyed it. The mafia world fascinates me.
If you’re looking for a perfect book boyfriend, you won’t find him here either. The hero is troubled, flawed and doesn’t offer the heroine much. But I liked him. He’s far from your typical mafia heroes. Not a manwhore. Not an asshole. Loner. Loyal. Patient. Extremely protective. Silent type.
And if you're looking for a perfect heroine, look elsewhere. I mean, the heroine is likable and strong but she has weaknesses. She deserves a medal for patience and tolerance. But I won't hold it against her. Nothing is black and white in life. There’s a lot of grey.
This isn’t the best mafia story I’ve read. It's not the hottest either. But it's definitely original and very enjoyable. It explains some of the events from the Chicago series and adds to the story as a whole. And despite the fact that this duet can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the Chicago series first, especially book one.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment: 3.75/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 5/5
Hero(es): 4/5
Heroine: 4/5
Secondary characters: 4/5
Hotness/steam: 3/5
Romance: 3.5/5
Angst: 3.5/5
Darkness level: 3/5
Humor: 2/5
Depth of the book: 4/5
POV: dual, 3rd person
Triggers:
Ce l'hai fatta, Dino!
Not many authors are capable of writing a credible mafia love story. More often than not, mafia romances are just cliche love stories with a few mafia terms thrown here and there. But Bethany-Kris has created her own fictional mafia world so authentic that it feels like watching a good mafia movie. I’m really looking forward to reading the rest of her books.
If you’re looking for a typical insta-lovish dominant alpha mafia story, you won’t find it here. This duet is quite a realistic slow burn romance with a complex mafia background story. That is exactly why I enjoyed it. The mafia world fascinates me.
If you’re looking for a perfect book boyfriend, you won’t find him here either. The hero is troubled, flawed and doesn’t offer the heroine much. But I liked him. He’s far from your typical mafia heroes. Not a manwhore. Not an asshole. Loner. Loyal. Patient. Extremely protective. Silent type.
And if you're looking for a perfect heroine, look elsewhere. I mean, the heroine is likable and strong but she has weaknesses. She deserves a medal for patience and tolerance. But I won't hold it against her. Nothing is black and white in life. There’s a lot of grey.
This isn’t the best mafia story I’ve read. It's not the hottest either. But it's definitely original and very enjoyable. It explains some of the events from the Chicago series and adds to the story as a whole. And despite the fact that this duet can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the Chicago series first, especially book one.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment: 3.75/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 5/5
Hero(es): 4/5
Heroine: 4/5
Secondary characters: 4/5
Hotness/steam: 3/5
Romance: 3.5/5
Angst: 3.5/5
Darkness level: 3/5
Humor: 2/5
Depth of the book: 4/5
POV: dual, 3rd person
Triggers:
August 8, 2019
I wasn't sure if I was ready to read the conclusion of this duet. I was pretty clear on what to expect after reading Deathless & Divided. Well I couldn't be more wrong!! There were so many surprises in store for me in this book.
Dino DeLuca was trapped. Although his uncle, Mr. Evil himself, Ben, set him up, he was still obligated to him. In order to keep everyone he loved safe, he had to play by Ben's rules. It was utterly tragic to have to see him lead two lives: the one he wanted with Karen and that of a made man. The pressure he felt and the many ways he had to manipulate his life were their own special kinds of torture.
Dino still felt less than. Undeserving and unworthy. But in this book I finally got to see him start to accept his slivers of happiness. I lived for his smile and every second that he was able to spend with his family. In the end, Dino achieved exactly what he had set out to accomplish: to protect his siblings and to follow his heart with Karen.
Sidenote: I haven't finished the Chicago War series, but I hope all of the real "bad guys" (those I've REALLY come to despise) die slow and painful deaths! *wink* *fingers crossed*
Release Date: February 6, 2017
Genre: Mafia Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 3rd person
Steam: 3 out of 5
Book Type: Book 2 of the DeLuca Duet
Dino DeLuca was trapped. Although his uncle, Mr. Evil himself, Ben, set him up, he was still obligated to him. In order to keep everyone he loved safe, he had to play by Ben's rules. It was utterly tragic to have to see him lead two lives: the one he wanted with Karen and that of a made man. The pressure he felt and the many ways he had to manipulate his life were their own special kinds of torture.
Dino still felt less than. Undeserving and unworthy. But in this book I finally got to see him start to accept his slivers of happiness. I lived for his smile and every second that he was able to spend with his family. In the end, Dino achieved exactly what he had set out to accomplish: to protect his siblings and to follow his heart with Karen.
Sidenote: I haven't finished the Chicago War series, but I hope all of the real "bad guys" (those I've REALLY come to despise) die slow and painful deaths! *wink* *fingers crossed*
Release Date: February 6, 2017
Genre: Mafia Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 3rd person
Steam: 3 out of 5
Book Type: Book 2 of the DeLuca Duet
February 6, 2017
4 "worth it" stars
Worth of Waste is a book 2 and a conclusion to the DeLuca duet were we finally get a full picture of who actually Dino DeLuca is, in this story of one man's proof of worth against the life that doomed him as an individual, that smuggled him and oppressed him from fully living. It's a story of one man's fulfilling the promises, it's a one man's fight for freedom of choice and freedom of life in repressed, cruel and brutal world of mafia. It's a story of a man marked as filth and a waste of worth as a Capo, man who was judged by the sins of his father and targeted as liability, who will raise above them all, and embark from the shadows in a survival of the fittest, smartest and patient while setting in motion long awaited plans that will shake the foundation of the mafia families
What had once seemed like such a strong foundation of people within an organization that had managed to control the city of Chicago for the better part of almost a century, had now started to crumble under the weight of suspicion and anger.
These motions, even though they go against everything he was born and brought into, will eventually set himself free, while he protects the woman he loves
Dino did not want Karen involved. Not with his people. Not with his life. Not with the…mafia.
and does the right thing by his remaining kins.
He'd done what he promised his parents all those years ago when he buried them; he'd taken care of his siblings the best way he knew how.
This crime/action drama is moderately paced and is slowly build up in gradation towards the end cluminating in revelation of the events that left us intrigued in the Chicago series where we first meet Dino DeLuca, a man no one cared about, a man who was underestimated but who outlived and outsmarted the very clutches of mafia world.
Bethany-Kris knows her craft, and she sure knows the secrets of the mafia world and how to keep them alluring and more interesting in each and every one of her books.
***ARC generously provided by the author Bethany-Kris in exchange for an honest review***
August 10, 2019
**Reread August 2019**
I loved the conclusion to Dino and Karen's story even more this time around, despite that I felt the melancholy and poignant vibe a lot more. Dino lived a desperately sad and brutal life, and this really shows through so strongly throughout his story. But to his dark despondency there is Karen, his light and calm in a world that never had that for him.
This duet is why I love to read.
**Original review**
I floved this, so damn hard. A fantastic end to one of my very favourite series ever. From The Chicago Wars I had a pretty good idea of where Dino and Karen's story was going to end, but that in no way detracted from the epicness that I've just had the pleasure of reading.
I loved Dino and Karen in Waste of Worth and adored them in this one. The author had plenty of opportunity to go into flashback mode and I'm so thrilled that she didn't. She's got such a gift of giving me all the detail I want and need without over-saturating the story or allowing the boredom to kick in. In fact I found myself skimming to find out what was going to happen next and had to force myself to slow down, go back and read what I'd just skimmed. I love it when a book grabs me like this, where sleep is just not necessary because reading becomes way more important. This happens when I read a BK book and this one was no different. Add to this no cheating, no ex drama, no ridiculous misunderstandings and you have magic!
Thank you BK for giving us Dino's story, it was bloody fantastic.
I loved the conclusion to Dino and Karen's story even more this time around, despite that I felt the melancholy and poignant vibe a lot more. Dino lived a desperately sad and brutal life, and this really shows through so strongly throughout his story. But to his dark despondency there is Karen, his light and calm in a world that never had that for him.
This duet is why I love to read.
**Original review**
I floved this, so damn hard. A fantastic end to one of my very favourite series ever. From The Chicago Wars I had a pretty good idea of where Dino and Karen's story was going to end, but that in no way detracted from the epicness that I've just had the pleasure of reading.
I loved Dino and Karen in Waste of Worth and adored them in this one. The author had plenty of opportunity to go into flashback mode and I'm so thrilled that she didn't. She's got such a gift of giving me all the detail I want and need without over-saturating the story or allowing the boredom to kick in. In fact I found myself skimming to find out what was going to happen next and had to force myself to slow down, go back and read what I'd just skimmed. I love it when a book grabs me like this, where sleep is just not necessary because reading becomes way more important. This happens when I read a BK book and this one was no different. Add to this no cheating, no ex drama, no ridiculous misunderstandings and you have magic!
Thank you BK for giving us Dino's story, it was bloody fantastic.
February 6, 2017
4.5 stars
What a bittersweet curtain of closure this book provided, and what a stunning conclusion to Dino DeLuca's story! This book made the reader privy to the undercover plans Dino was forging in the Chicago War series. Without giving too much away, the delicate balancing act that was Dino's life was a tangle of half-truths along with other promises he made and was determined to uphold. Protecting his siblings was one of his primary goals, but in the end, he followed his heart, too.
I thoroughly savored this story!
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**
What a bittersweet curtain of closure this book provided, and what a stunning conclusion to Dino DeLuca's story! This book made the reader privy to the undercover plans Dino was forging in the Chicago War series. Without giving too much away, the delicate balancing act that was Dino's life was a tangle of half-truths along with other promises he made and was determined to uphold. Protecting his siblings was one of his primary goals, but in the end, he followed his heart, too.
I thoroughly savored this story!
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**
August 9, 2019
Okay so about half way through this I actually remembered. I remembered what I couldn’t while reading the previous book.
So again this is a good well written book.
And again I struggled with the hopelessness of Dino’s life. This book was better early on because I knew we’d get our HEA and all would be good. Then I remembered and wondered where it was going from there.
While I enjoyed this I still felt weighed down by Dino’s life. But Karen and JD provide some much welcome relief.
So again this is a good well written book.
And again I struggled with the hopelessness of Dino’s life. This book was better early on because I knew we’d get our HEA and all would be good. Then I remembered and wondered where it was going from there.
While I enjoyed this I still felt weighed down by Dino’s life. But Karen and JD provide some much welcome relief.
Read
February 11, 2017Now on Kindle Unlimited!
Enter the giveaway for a chance at one of two signed copies of Waste of Worth:
https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/dis...
Grab your copy below:
The DeLuca Duet is now in Kindle Unlimited! <3
Waste of Worth
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N6GKD8H
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01N6GKD8H
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01N6GKD8H
Worth of Waste:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSYT78K
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01MSYT78K
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MSYT78K
Enter the giveaway for a chance at one of two signed copies of Waste of Worth:
https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/dis...
Grab your copy below:
The DeLuca Duet is now in Kindle Unlimited! <3
Waste of Worth
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N6GKD8H
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01N6GKD8H
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01N6GKD8H
Worth of Waste:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSYT78K
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01MSYT78K
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MSYT78K
June 16, 2017
***** 4 Stars *****
Cannot be read as a standalone.
I really enjoyed this story. As Dino is finishing up his sentence, Karen is living a normal life as a single parent. Her life is stable and good. She has a job that makes her happy and a son that brings her joy. But when Dino finally gets out, the problems from before come back harder.
I loved the touching moments about Dino and his son. They truly warmed my heart. But Dino needs to think of a solution if he wants to be with his family.
Dino and Karen try to make it work, but things are always going against them. Throughout the story, you'll see bits and pieces from The Chicago War series. Reading that series isn't required for this duet, but you might enjoy it more because a lot of the other characters are mentioned. You'll also probably have an idea on how Dino solves his problems.
Cannot be read as a standalone.
I really enjoyed this story. As Dino is finishing up his sentence, Karen is living a normal life as a single parent. Her life is stable and good. She has a job that makes her happy and a son that brings her joy. But when Dino finally gets out, the problems from before come back harder.
I loved the touching moments about Dino and his son. They truly warmed my heart. But Dino needs to think of a solution if he wants to be with his family.
Dino and Karen try to make it work, but things are always going against them. Throughout the story, you'll see bits and pieces from The Chicago War series. Reading that series isn't required for this duet, but you might enjoy it more because a lot of the other characters are mentioned. You'll also probably have an idea on how Dino solves his problems.
February 6, 2017
5 STARS
Ahh what an ending! I loved this series and while this is a stand alone duet, it was the perfect way to wrap things up for the Chicago outfit.
Most mafia stories are about the life, about men accepting or loving the life, this one is different. Dino DeLuca was born into the mob, trapped by la famiglia, and punished for the sins of the father. He's raised to believe he's less than. His only reason to live is to protect his family and then he has another reason, another family.
This story flips the traditional mob story on its sides as he strives to get out. His story shines a light on the price one pays, the sacrifices and scars that are their own burden. And if on the slim chance there is a light at the end of the tunnel, the way out is no easy path.
Bethany gives us one beautifully heartbreaking story with love, hope and a HEA! I loved this duet, so much so, I read this book in one sitting! I just needed to know Dino got the ending he deserved!
**ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
For more reviews and blog posts.
Ahh what an ending! I loved this series and while this is a stand alone duet, it was the perfect way to wrap things up for the Chicago outfit.
Most mafia stories are about the life, about men accepting or loving the life, this one is different. Dino DeLuca was born into the mob, trapped by la famiglia, and punished for the sins of the father. He's raised to believe he's less than. His only reason to live is to protect his family and then he has another reason, another family.
This story flips the traditional mob story on its sides as he strives to get out. His story shines a light on the price one pays, the sacrifices and scars that are their own burden. And if on the slim chance there is a light at the end of the tunnel, the way out is no easy path.
Bethany gives us one beautifully heartbreaking story with love, hope and a HEA! I loved this duet, so much so, I read this book in one sitting! I just needed to know Dino got the ending he deserved!
**ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
For more reviews and blog posts.
April 6, 2020
AL FIN PUEDO DESCANSAR EN PAZ!!!
Este libro era lo que mi alma lectora necesitaba para poder dormir tranquila.
ADVERTENCIA Si no has leído la serie The Chicago War sobre todo el primer libro no leas esta reseña y si ya leíste la serie necesitas leer esta Duología
La historia continúa justo después de terminar el libro anterior y avanza hasta los sucesos ocurridos durante el libro Deathless & Divided y ahora si conocemos como Dino planeó toda la guerra para destruir a las cabezas del Outfit empezando por su tío Ben.
Aunque en ese libro si pensé que todas la cosas que ocurrieron muchos no se las merecían como la muerte de Terrance Trentini, ahora sí creo que era justo.
Dino hizo todo por sus hermanos por los amigos de sus hermanos y la futura generación que él veía que podían hacer algo mejor para la organización y al mismo tiempo para el estar libre y feliz con la mujer que ama, porque si alguien a lo largo de estos 6 libros merecía ser feliz era Dino DeLuca.
Creo que este libro es una conclusión excelente para toda esta serie un poco agridulce porque sabemos como acaba todo pero al menos fue un cierre.
Este libro era lo que mi alma lectora necesitaba para poder dormir tranquila.
ADVERTENCIA Si no has leído la serie The Chicago War sobre todo el primer libro no leas esta reseña y si ya leíste la serie necesitas leer esta Duología
La historia continúa justo después de terminar el libro anterior y avanza hasta los sucesos ocurridos durante el libro Deathless & Divided y ahora si conocemos como Dino planeó toda la guerra para destruir a las cabezas del Outfit empezando por su tío Ben.
Aunque en ese libro si pensé que todas la cosas que ocurrieron muchos no se las merecían como la muerte de Terrance Trentini, ahora sí creo que era justo.
Dino hizo todo por sus hermanos por los amigos de sus hermanos y la futura generación que él veía que podían hacer algo mejor para la organización y al mismo tiempo para el estar libre y feliz con la mujer que ama, porque si alguien a lo largo de estos 6 libros merecía ser feliz era Dino DeLuca.
Creo que este libro es una conclusión excelente para toda esta serie un poco agridulce porque sabemos como acaba todo pero al menos fue un cierre.
March 15, 2017
*ARC received from author in exchange for a review
Wow, this was sooo not an easy road for Dino and Karen!
This picks up right where the first book ended. Right from the get go, I wondered how these 2 will ever find their happy ending. Dino, as you learned from the first book, has not had an easy life. And he was in prison, for cryin’ out loud!
But when there's a will, there’s a way, as they say. Lucky for Dino, Karen loves him unconditionally. It allowed Dino to plan knowing that Karen is there for him. It’s poignant and commendable to see how these 2 fought for what they want, especially Dino.
Dino’s a made guy but he’s not high enough in the pecking order. So Dino has very little control over his own life. And to have a family member above him as vile as his uncle, it was a harsh life. Karen just wants to be with Dino. But as an outsider that Dino wants to stay as an outsider, it’s not easy street for her either.
This might sound weird but Dino and Karen’s story made me melancholic. For a couple of people who wants the simple things, it was anything but. The measures that Dino had to take to get to their HEA had me jumpy the whole time because it truly felt the rug can be pulled underneath them at any second. Along the way, their times together felt so limited that you can’t help but savor it the way they did.
Their HEA ending was probably the best outcome anyone can ask for given their circumstances. I’m just glad these 2 got to that point in one piece. Sigh…
Wow, this was sooo not an easy road for Dino and Karen!
This picks up right where the first book ended. Right from the get go, I wondered how these 2 will ever find their happy ending. Dino, as you learned from the first book, has not had an easy life. And he was in prison, for cryin’ out loud!
But when there's a will, there’s a way, as they say. Lucky for Dino, Karen loves him unconditionally. It allowed Dino to plan knowing that Karen is there for him. It’s poignant and commendable to see how these 2 fought for what they want, especially Dino.
Dino’s a made guy but he’s not high enough in the pecking order. So Dino has very little control over his own life. And to have a family member above him as vile as his uncle, it was a harsh life. Karen just wants to be with Dino. But as an outsider that Dino wants to stay as an outsider, it’s not easy street for her either.
This might sound weird but Dino and Karen’s story made me melancholic. For a couple of people who wants the simple things, it was anything but. The measures that Dino had to take to get to their HEA had me jumpy the whole time because it truly felt the rug can be pulled underneath them at any second. Along the way, their times together felt so limited that you can’t help but savor it the way they did.
Their HEA ending was probably the best outcome anyone can ask for given their circumstances. I’m just glad these 2 got to that point in one piece. Sigh…
July 14, 2020
" Ya no se aferraba a su corazon y alma. Se las habia dado a las personas que eran mucho mas dignas que el. "
Me es imposible poner en palabras lo mucho que senti con este libro. Es cierto que lo espere ansiosa despues de haber terminado el primer tomo y aun asi no imagine que mientras pasaba las paginas de esta novela iba a sentir tanto. Felicidad, tristeza, angustia, enfado ... pase por todas esas emociones y muchas mas que no soy capaz de describir mientras volvia a adentrarme en la historia de amor de Dino y Karen.
Worth Of Waste narra una historia tan intensa y emocional que es imposible leerla y no pasar por una montaña rusa de sentimientos, la trama es adictiva y esta muy bien hilada, los personajes son tan complejos y bien dibujados que da gusto conocerlos con cada pagina, y por si todas esas razones no fueran suficientes para darle una oportunidad a DeLuca Duet, debes tener en cuenta que el estilo de Bethany Kris es muy muy atipico a la par que impresionante.
" Asi es como se siente morit por dentro. "
No voy a negar que durante gran parte de la novela temi ansiosamente llegar al final, y en esta ocasion no fue solo por mi deseo de que no se terminara, sino debido a mi miedo de que la autora decidiera darle un final tan desolador y desgarrador como el que muchas personas esperamos despues de leer Deathless & Divided, y aunque si que siento que fue un desenlace agridulce, creo que es el final perfecto para Dino, por lo que me alegro de que Bethany se decidiera por esa opcion.
Esta bilogia acaba de escalar muchos puestos entre mis favoritos de esta escritora, no solo porque me sorprendio en muchas ocasiones, sino tambien porque siento que la historia de Karen y Dino es unica e indescriptible.
" No habia tal cosa como una vida sin un alma. "
En resumen, Worth Of Waste fue un libro magnifico, especial y lleno de potencia que me enamoro desde la primera frase hasta la ultima. Dino y Karen se acaban de ganar un lugar permanente en mi alma con su preciosa relacion.
P. D. : Espero que Junior aparezca en mas novelas de este mundo o incluso que Bethany escriba su propia historia de amor.
4.5 Estrellas!!
February 6, 2017
5 +++ - worth - stars
How much waste is worth and how much worth is waste?
Is worth given or is it something you either have or don't ?
"He saw himself as disposable.
He didn't want to be loved because he didn't deserve to be."
Worth of waste by Bethany-Kris is part two of DeLuca Duet . The books should be read in the following order:
One -
January 9th 2017
Two -
coming February 6th 2017
They can be read as a standalone though the story is slightly connected to her
series. Though the Duet can be read as a complete standalone if you want to know more about Dino ( and I'm sure you will) Chicago Wars series will be of great use.
Worth of waste is a continuation of Dino and Karen's fight to be happy. It starts right after the events of the first part.
Dino is in prison and more than ready to return to what he was stolen - his heart and soul. But the Outfit is for life and Karen is not a part of it. He cannot simply quit but he cannot live with snakes either. Something must be done and quickly. Just a little nudge to start what was brewing for a long time - The War.
Worth of waste is not a book. It's a fight. Fight for happiness, betterness, freedom, family. For me this book was one of the most emotional books by Bethany. It was like putting salt on raw wounds - painful but needed to be done.
I like the characters. Junior was a bright ray of light in it. I loved reading scenes with him. They always put a smile on my face. Dino and Karen changed in this book. The became stronger but caring and full of life.
" His home was where his heart was, and his heart was with the people who made it beat. "
I cried and smiled at the ending of this duet. It was just what I wanted Dino to have. Freedom
Thank you, Bethany- Kris for this wonderful journey!
*** ARC was provided to me by an amazing author Bethany-Kris in exchange for an honest review
How much waste is worth and how much worth is waste?
Is worth given or is it something you either have or don't ?
"He saw himself as disposable.
He didn't want to be loved because he didn't deserve to be."
Worth of waste by Bethany-Kris is part two of DeLuca Duet . The books should be read in the following order:
One -
January 9th 2017Two -
coming February 6th 2017They can be read as a standalone though the story is slightly connected to her
series. Though the Duet can be read as a complete standalone if you want to know more about Dino ( and I'm sure you will) Chicago Wars series will be of great use.Worth of waste is a continuation of Dino and Karen's fight to be happy. It starts right after the events of the first part.
Dino is in prison and more than ready to return to what he was stolen - his heart and soul. But the Outfit is for life and Karen is not a part of it. He cannot simply quit but he cannot live with snakes either. Something must be done and quickly. Just a little nudge to start what was brewing for a long time - The War.
Worth of waste is not a book. It's a fight. Fight for happiness, betterness, freedom, family. For me this book was one of the most emotional books by Bethany. It was like putting salt on raw wounds - painful but needed to be done.
I like the characters. Junior was a bright ray of light in it. I loved reading scenes with him. They always put a smile on my face. Dino and Karen changed in this book. The became stronger but caring and full of life.
" His home was where his heart was, and his heart was with the people who made it beat. "
I cried and smiled at the ending of this duet. It was just what I wanted Dino to have. Freedom
Thank you, Bethany- Kris for this wonderful journey!
*** ARC was provided to me by an amazing author Bethany-Kris in exchange for an honest review
February 10, 2017
This is such a satisfying journey and conclusion for Dino DeLuca. As a reader of the Chicago Wars series, I knew what the outcome and the ending, but there are a lot of unanswered questions and I need to experience Dino's journey and bask in his hard earned happiness and peace.
I'm worried that this second book of the duet is going to delve into all the mafia politics again, but it seems like this time around more time is dedicated for Dino and Karen to solidify once again that Dino is man worth loving and Karen is so understanding of his plight. Her trust in him never waver and she is willing to accept him as he is despite the tumultuous situation.
Honestly, I sorta skim off whenever the evil uncle came into the page, although I do find his predicament satisfying. The chain effect that set of by Dino is intriguing and some extra information came to light from the event that took place in Chicago Wars.
Overall, this is definitely a must read for fans of Chicago Wars and Dino DeLuca. Thank you for Bethany for writing this for all her fans.
I'm worried that this second book of the duet is going to delve into all the mafia politics again, but it seems like this time around more time is dedicated for Dino and Karen to solidify once again that Dino is man worth loving and Karen is so understanding of his plight. Her trust in him never waver and she is willing to accept him as he is despite the tumultuous situation.
Honestly, I sorta skim off whenever the evil uncle came into the page, although I do find his predicament satisfying. The chain effect that set of by Dino is intriguing and some extra information came to light from the event that took place in Chicago Wars.
Overall, this is definitely a must read for fans of Chicago Wars and Dino DeLuca. Thank you for Bethany for writing this for all her fans.
February 7, 2017
I knew this story would turn me inside out and wreck me. Knowing the inevitable, I tried to go in hard. Desensitized. Go hard or go home, right?
Although my walls were high, my battle armor in place, Bethany-Kris battled and CONQUERED each brick, each chink with every single word written! Oh my gawd! When indulging in a Kris novel, one must expect an emotional ride complete with tears, chocolate, and alcohol for solace. But good gravy! Worth of Waste is at another level! How is it we thought Dino to be a cold, unfeeling, inhuman monster? There is truth to the old adage.....never judge a book by its cover. As readers, we not only seriously underestimated Dino, but we underestimated his love for his family. His sacrifices in this story..... I. AM. HUMBLED.
I cannot allow this to be first and last time reading this two book series or the Chicago series that inspired it. If you are a true lover of the mafia genre, this series is for you. Thank you Bethany for an amazing ride!
Five stars!
Although my walls were high, my battle armor in place, Bethany-Kris battled and CONQUERED each brick, each chink with every single word written! Oh my gawd! When indulging in a Kris novel, one must expect an emotional ride complete with tears, chocolate, and alcohol for solace. But good gravy! Worth of Waste is at another level! How is it we thought Dino to be a cold, unfeeling, inhuman monster? There is truth to the old adage.....never judge a book by its cover. As readers, we not only seriously underestimated Dino, but we underestimated his love for his family. His sacrifices in this story..... I. AM. HUMBLED.
I cannot allow this to be first and last time reading this two book series or the Chicago series that inspired it. If you are a true lover of the mafia genre, this series is for you. Thank you Bethany for an amazing ride!
Five stars!
October 29, 2022
Dino deserve everything.
June 1, 2021
OMFG! I don't know what to say, I'm speechless, I was hopeful and uuuggg I cried at the possibility that it was true! AND IT WAS TRUE! DINO IS ALIVE!
I think this duet definitely became my favorite, BK is a genius, she made me feel so much about these books. Dino my boy, I'm still crying people.
I was scared to read these books but I think now was the right time, I loved it.
Español
OMFG! No se que decir, estoy sin palabras, tenia esperanza y uuuggg lloré por la posibilidad de que fuera cierto ¡Y ERA CIERTO! ¡DINO ESTA VIVO!
Creo que este dueto definitivamente se convirtió en mi favorito, BK es una genia, ella me hizo sentir tanto con estos libros. Dino mi amor me encanta. Todavía estoy llorando gente.😭
Tenía miedo de leer estos libros pero creo que ahora fue el momento indicado, me encantó.
I think this duet definitely became my favorite, BK is a genius, she made me feel so much about these books. Dino my boy, I'm still crying people.
I was scared to read these books but I think now was the right time, I loved it.
Español
OMFG! No se que decir, estoy sin palabras, tenia esperanza y uuuggg lloré por la posibilidad de que fuera cierto ¡Y ERA CIERTO! ¡DINO ESTA VIVO!
Creo que este dueto definitivamente se convirtió en mi favorito, BK es una genia, ella me hizo sentir tanto con estos libros. Dino mi amor me encanta. Todavía estoy llorando gente.😭
Tenía miedo de leer estos libros pero creo que ahora fue el momento indicado, me encantó.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2017
Fans of Bethany-Kris’ The Chicago War series need no introduction when it comes to Dino DeLuca. His character took center stage in Book 1, Deathless and Divided, as murder and mayhem broke out among four rival Chicago mobster families. At that point, most of us only saw him as the quintessential, uncaring mafioso brother of Theo and Lily, who seemed determined to save his own skin and didn’t care if he ruined their lives in the process. We were only given glimpses there were possibly more to him that meets the eye.
Well, my mafia romance book-loving friends, things were definitely different than they seemed. Dino did have demons, some real but many self-imposed. He didn’t dare dream of ever finding peace and happiness considering the hold the mob had on him, especially the perpetual choke hold of his evil, cruel Uncle Ben. Thankfully for him, the author gave him the unconditional love of a good woman who wants nothing more than to drive that darkness away and bring him only love and happiness.
Getting the full Dino details and his decision to take matters into his own hands was like watching a complex jigsaw puzzle you’ve struggled to put together suddenly fit together perfectly. Oh, it is so wonderfully wicked what ultimately happens to Uncle Ben, folks, but it is barely mentioned here. If you want the full scoop on that James Bond type ending, you just got to read book 1 of The Chicago War to see how karma in the form of a ghost gives him his just and final reward. You know what they say about payback? It begins with a “B”. Well, think again. In this case, it starts with a “D”. I’ll leave you and your imagination to ponder on that clue until you read Deathless and Divided and discover it for yourself.
So here’s to hoping we haven’t seen the last of Dino and his lady love. With a little help from his family and a few mafia made associates, I have every confidence Bethany-Kris may not be finished with him yet. Here’s to keeping my mafioso book-loving fingers crossed he’ll turn up again in another of her great mafia romance series.
Title: Worth of Waste, Series: DeLuca Duet, Part 2, Author: Bethany-Kris, Pages: 266, not a stand-alone, need to read part 1 first, mafia romance, mob violence, sweet/patient heroine, alpha tough good guy hero who has a tragic past, a few smexy scenes with lusty language, OTT evil family villain, Part 1 story line takes place before book 1 of The Chicago War (Deathless and Divided) but this can be considered an independent 2 part series, romance safe read, no cheating, no love triangle, no OW/OM drama.
The Chicago War: The Complete Series review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
DeLuca Duet:
Book 1 - Waste of Worth, 1/9/17, Pages: 254
My review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 2 - Worth of Waste, 2/2/6/17, Pages: 266
(This review is based on advanced reader copy provided via the author in exchange for an unbiased, fair review. No compensation was provided to this reviewer, nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer and author/publisher.)
Well, my mafia romance book-loving friends, things were definitely different than they seemed. Dino did have demons, some real but many self-imposed. He didn’t dare dream of ever finding peace and happiness considering the hold the mob had on him, especially the perpetual choke hold of his evil, cruel Uncle Ben. Thankfully for him, the author gave him the unconditional love of a good woman who wants nothing more than to drive that darkness away and bring him only love and happiness.
Getting the full Dino details and his decision to take matters into his own hands was like watching a complex jigsaw puzzle you’ve struggled to put together suddenly fit together perfectly. Oh, it is so wonderfully wicked what ultimately happens to Uncle Ben, folks, but it is barely mentioned here. If you want the full scoop on that James Bond type ending, you just got to read book 1 of The Chicago War to see how karma in the form of a ghost gives him his just and final reward. You know what they say about payback? It begins with a “B”. Well, think again. In this case, it starts with a “D”. I’ll leave you and your imagination to ponder on that clue until you read Deathless and Divided and discover it for yourself.
So here’s to hoping we haven’t seen the last of Dino and his lady love. With a little help from his family and a few mafia made associates, I have every confidence Bethany-Kris may not be finished with him yet. Here’s to keeping my mafioso book-loving fingers crossed he’ll turn up again in another of her great mafia romance series.
Title: Worth of Waste, Series: DeLuca Duet, Part 2, Author: Bethany-Kris, Pages: 266, not a stand-alone, need to read part 1 first, mafia romance, mob violence, sweet/patient heroine, alpha tough good guy hero who has a tragic past, a few smexy scenes with lusty language, OTT evil family villain, Part 1 story line takes place before book 1 of The Chicago War (Deathless and Divided) but this can be considered an independent 2 part series, romance safe read, no cheating, no love triangle, no OW/OM drama.
The Chicago War: The Complete Series review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
DeLuca Duet:
Book 1 - Waste of Worth, 1/9/17, Pages: 254
My review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 2 - Worth of Waste, 2/2/6/17, Pages: 266
(This review is based on advanced reader copy provided via the author in exchange for an unbiased, fair review. No compensation was provided to this reviewer, nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer and author/publisher.)
November 21, 2020
Sufrí con este libro desde el principio, fue horrible.
Me molesté un poquito con Karen por no pensar las cosas e ir a ver a Dino a la cárcel, pero realmente entendí su desesperación por respuestas, no sabía que hacer la pobre con su vida.
Todo el principio fue muy triste con ella sola embarazada y Dino preso. Cuando el bebé nace y el abogado le da la foto a Dino lloré.
Cuando se reencuentran fue muy lindo, amo que Dino sabía todo el daño que le causaba a Karen y que se disculpara siempre por todo.
Admito que fue horrible cada vez que hacía una promesa, como que no se iba a perder otro cumpleaños de JD o que no la iba a volver a dejar sola. Eso me tenía destruída porque ajá ya sabía su final.
Todo lo que Dino hace por sus hermanos es simplemente hermoso, como siempre los cuidó como pudo y como trató de dejarlo en buenas situaciones antes de irse. Si se nota como Theo intenta acercarse, más que todo luego de que se encuentra con Karen y ve al bebé, pero ya la relación estaba muy maltratada y no funcionaba.
Me gustó que Theo estuviera pendiente de Karen y el niño hasta después de la explosión.
Hablando de la explosión... MARICO QUE MIERDA??? Estaba demasiado atacada porque se supone que esto tenía un final feliz, pero se fue acercando el momento de la muerte de Dino y nada parecía feliz en mi opinión. Se ve como Dean ve lo de la radio, como Dino sospecha que algo no está bien, como Tommy le advierte en la iglesia que Joel y los Artinos planeaban deshacerse de él ese mismo día. Y que horrible ese momento donde se monta en el carro, prende el radio y nota que algo está mal e intenta salir.
Y SALE VOLANDO SOBRE UNA PARED.
No puedo todavía creer que Dino sobrevive, al final del libro hay una nota de BK que dice que en Chicago War ella dejó eso abierto, tipo no se encontró cuerpo, nunca hubo como tal una escena de su muerte (solo Lily gritando, nada más cerca), pero igual yo creía que era verdad por los encuentros de Karen y JD con Theo. De verdad me jodió horrible con ese final, me encantó.
Después de tanto sufrimiento en su vida, Dino merecía ser libre y le tocó sufrir varias heridas más por la bomba y huir fingiendo su muerte para lograrlo. Por fin pudo estar donde quería, junto a Karen y su hijo, lejos de todo lo relacionado a la mafia. Igual le da una vuelta de vez en cuando a sus hermanos y sabe cosas de ellos, pero nunca se acerca.
En serio este libro me hizo sentir muchas muchas cosas y lo amé. No esperaba ese plot twist y aunque a veces soy de las que odia que todo el mundo sobrevive en ciertas historias, aquí no me importa. No iba a soportar leer su muerte y que Karen tuviera que seguir sola su vida con JD sin su papá.
Definitivamente voy a seguir leyendo.
Me molesté un poquito con Karen por no pensar las cosas e ir a ver a Dino a la cárcel, pero realmente entendí su desesperación por respuestas, no sabía que hacer la pobre con su vida.
Todo el principio fue muy triste con ella sola embarazada y Dino preso. Cuando el bebé nace y el abogado le da la foto a Dino lloré.
Cuando se reencuentran fue muy lindo, amo que Dino sabía todo el daño que le causaba a Karen y que se disculpara siempre por todo.
Admito que fue horrible cada vez que hacía una promesa, como que no se iba a perder otro cumpleaños de JD o que no la iba a volver a dejar sola. Eso me tenía destruída porque ajá ya sabía su final.
Todo lo que Dino hace por sus hermanos es simplemente hermoso, como siempre los cuidó como pudo y como trató de dejarlo en buenas situaciones antes de irse. Si se nota como Theo intenta acercarse, más que todo luego de que se encuentra con Karen y ve al bebé, pero ya la relación estaba muy maltratada y no funcionaba.
Me gustó que Theo estuviera pendiente de Karen y el niño hasta después de la explosión.
Hablando de la explosión... MARICO QUE MIERDA??? Estaba demasiado atacada porque se supone que esto tenía un final feliz, pero se fue acercando el momento de la muerte de Dino y nada parecía feliz en mi opinión. Se ve como Dean ve lo de la radio, como Dino sospecha que algo no está bien, como Tommy le advierte en la iglesia que Joel y los Artinos planeaban deshacerse de él ese mismo día. Y que horrible ese momento donde se monta en el carro, prende el radio y nota que algo está mal e intenta salir.
Y SALE VOLANDO SOBRE UNA PARED.
No puedo todavía creer que Dino sobrevive, al final del libro hay una nota de BK que dice que en Chicago War ella dejó eso abierto, tipo no se encontró cuerpo, nunca hubo como tal una escena de su muerte (solo Lily gritando, nada más cerca), pero igual yo creía que era verdad por los encuentros de Karen y JD con Theo. De verdad me jodió horrible con ese final, me encantó.
Después de tanto sufrimiento en su vida, Dino merecía ser libre y le tocó sufrir varias heridas más por la bomba y huir fingiendo su muerte para lograrlo. Por fin pudo estar donde quería, junto a Karen y su hijo, lejos de todo lo relacionado a la mafia. Igual le da una vuelta de vez en cuando a sus hermanos y sabe cosas de ellos, pero nunca se acerca.
En serio este libro me hizo sentir muchas muchas cosas y lo amé. No esperaba ese plot twist y aunque a veces soy de las que odia que todo el mundo sobrevive en ciertas historias, aquí no me importa. No iba a soportar leer su muerte y que Karen tuviera que seguir sola su vida con JD sin su papá.
Definitivamente voy a seguir leyendo.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2021
https://www.instagram.com/p/CDH0jCylo...
“¿Crees que podrías ser feliz conmigo cada día y no solo un par de días a la semana?
La historia de Dino DeLuca es una de las que no sabías que necesitabas leer hasta que lo haces.
El primer libro me gustó porque nos introducen a los dos personajes, Karen y Dino. Como era su vida en el “antes”. Creo que yo le puse un comentario así “el mejor maldito libro que he leído de Bethany”.
“No había tal cosa como una vida sin un alma.”
En esta segunda parte, tenemos el “durante”. Dino y Karen, peleando por su futuro. Este libro tenía la particularidad de que nos describiría algunos de los acontecimientos ocurridos en “Deathless & Divided”, es por esta razón que pase todo el libro con el corazón en la mano, temiendo y deseando a la vez. Me sentí tan triste, tan feliz, regresó el odio por ciertos personajes (Ben y los Artino). Sabiendo lo que pasaba en la historia de Lily, tenía un nudo en la garganta y cuando se acercaba ese momento casi me volví loca.
“Conocí a una chica una vez y ella solo tuvo que hablar para hacerme sonreír.”
Agradezco a Bethany tanto, por traerme esta historia tan hermosa. Los momentos en familia fueron tan lindos. Es un libro que me sacó muchas lágrimas internas con sus momentos tan desgarradores y emotivos. Tuvo un final agridulce (no soy la única que lo dice), pero a la vez era la única manera.
Es una de las mejores historias que he leído de la autora. Tan llena de sentimientos. Quería y no quería terminar.
¿Llegara el día donde tendremos un “después”?
“Te veré pronto.”
“¿Crees que podrías ser feliz conmigo cada día y no solo un par de días a la semana?
La historia de Dino DeLuca es una de las que no sabías que necesitabas leer hasta que lo haces.
El primer libro me gustó porque nos introducen a los dos personajes, Karen y Dino. Como era su vida en el “antes”. Creo que yo le puse un comentario así “el mejor maldito libro que he leído de Bethany”.
“No había tal cosa como una vida sin un alma.”
En esta segunda parte, tenemos el “durante”. Dino y Karen, peleando por su futuro. Este libro tenía la particularidad de que nos describiría algunos de los acontecimientos ocurridos en “Deathless & Divided”, es por esta razón que pase todo el libro con el corazón en la mano, temiendo y deseando a la vez. Me sentí tan triste, tan feliz, regresó el odio por ciertos personajes (Ben y los Artino). Sabiendo lo que pasaba en la historia de Lily, tenía un nudo en la garganta y cuando se acercaba ese momento casi me volví loca.
“Conocí a una chica una vez y ella solo tuvo que hablar para hacerme sonreír.”
Agradezco a Bethany tanto, por traerme esta historia tan hermosa. Los momentos en familia fueron tan lindos. Es un libro que me sacó muchas lágrimas internas con sus momentos tan desgarradores y emotivos. Tuvo un final agridulce (no soy la única que lo dice), pero a la vez era la única manera.
Es una de las mejores historias que he leído de la autora. Tan llena de sentimientos. Quería y no quería terminar.
¿Llegara el día donde tendremos un “después”?
“Te veré pronto.”
February 9, 2017
** 4.5 stars **
February 7, 2017
5 "He regrets nothing" Stars
ARC was provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
I don't know where or how to start... This book is and will be one of my favorites for this 2017.
One of those I could not stop to thinking.
One of those where my heart squeezes but it makes me smile.
I must be honest and confess that, I was afraid of the end, so much that I postponed it for weeks. I just felt that something bad was happening and the so promised HEA in the end was going to be bittersweet.
Dino, Dino, Oh Dino.
This man stole my heart.
He didn't accept that his destiny was controlled.
He destroyed all the walls, broke all the ropes that bound him to be a victim and took the matter by his hands.
His decisions triggered reactions that made him free and find his happiness.
Unleashing a background story for the TCW Series where it solves questions.
I must confess that I haven't read the TCW Series and feel that I have read in a correct order since I can't imagine how the readers should feel with Dino's story there.
I still feel overwhelmed by the end but happy to have filled myself with courage and finish this story.
Highly recommend!
No sé por donde comenzar... Este libro es y será uno de mis favoritos de este 2017.
Uno del cual no puedo dejar de pensar.
Uno de esos donde se me aprieta el corazón pero me hace sonreír.
Debo ser honesta y confesar que, tenía miedo de su final tanto que lo pospuse por semanas. Sólo sentía que algo malo iba a pasar y que el tan prometido HEA al final iba a ser agridulce.
Dino, Dino, Oh Dino.
Este hombre robó mi corazón.
Él no aceptaba que su destino fuera controlado.
Rompió toda aquella cuerda que lo amarraba a ser una victima y tomó el asunto por sus manos.
Sus decisiones desencadenaron reacciones que lo hizo ser libre y encontrar su felicidad.
Desencadenando una historia de fondo para la Serie TCW donde nos resuelve interrogantes.
Debo confesar que no he leído la Serie TCW y siento que he leído en un orden correcto ya que no me imagino como debieron sentirse los lectores con el desenlace de Dino.
Me siento aún abrumada por final pero feliz de haberme llenado de valor y terminar esta historia.
Muy recomendable!
ARC was provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
I don't know where or how to start... This book is and will be one of my favorites for this 2017.
One of those I could not stop to thinking.
One of those where my heart squeezes but it makes me smile.
I must be honest and confess that, I was afraid of the end, so much that I postponed it for weeks. I just felt that something bad was happening and the so promised HEA in the end was going to be bittersweet.
Dino, Dino, Oh Dino.
This man stole my heart.
He didn't accept that his destiny was controlled.
He destroyed all the walls, broke all the ropes that bound him to be a victim and took the matter by his hands.
His decisions triggered reactions that made him free and find his happiness.
Unleashing a background story for the TCW Series where it solves questions.
I must confess that I haven't read the TCW Series and feel that I have read in a correct order since I can't imagine how the readers should feel with Dino's story there.
I still feel overwhelmed by the end but happy to have filled myself with courage and finish this story.
Highly recommend!
No sé por donde comenzar... Este libro es y será uno de mis favoritos de este 2017.
Uno del cual no puedo dejar de pensar.
Uno de esos donde se me aprieta el corazón pero me hace sonreír.
Debo ser honesta y confesar que, tenía miedo de su final tanto que lo pospuse por semanas. Sólo sentía que algo malo iba a pasar y que el tan prometido HEA al final iba a ser agridulce.
Dino, Dino, Oh Dino.
Este hombre robó mi corazón.
Él no aceptaba que su destino fuera controlado.
Rompió toda aquella cuerda que lo amarraba a ser una victima y tomó el asunto por sus manos.
Sus decisiones desencadenaron reacciones que lo hizo ser libre y encontrar su felicidad.
Desencadenando una historia de fondo para la Serie TCW donde nos resuelve interrogantes.
Debo confesar que no he leído la Serie TCW y siento que he leído en un orden correcto ya que no me imagino como debieron sentirse los lectores con el desenlace de Dino.
Me siento aún abrumada por final pero feliz de haberme llenado de valor y terminar esta historia.
Muy recomendable!
April 11, 2017
Ahhh Bethany- Kris, you have done my heart right. So right. That ending made my night and then some. I hoped beyond hope that things would turn out that way.
Ok, so if you haven't realized it yet.... I loved this book. Dino, aww my poor baby Dino. He sacrificed so much for his siblings without them even knowing it. Every decision he made was as much about them as it was about himself. Karen just solidified herself in this book. She stayed loyal and was always determined to give Dino the chance to make things right. Their relationship, without Dino needing to hide so much, just got better and better... and sexier. Junior, omg, just the cutest. Very much the typical hyper baby who's running up the walls, but smiles at you and makes your day. It was so adorable getting to see Dino as a dad.
There was action and a few deaths and some manipulations, but quite frankly, I didn't care what Dino did, as long as he got his happiness. *Shrugs*
And again, that ending. I cannot even say how happy I was to read how things ended.
Ok, so if you haven't realized it yet.... I loved this book. Dino, aww my poor baby Dino. He sacrificed so much for his siblings without them even knowing it. Every decision he made was as much about them as it was about himself. Karen just solidified herself in this book. She stayed loyal and was always determined to give Dino the chance to make things right. Their relationship, without Dino needing to hide so much, just got better and better... and sexier. Junior, omg, just the cutest. Very much the typical hyper baby who's running up the walls, but smiles at you and makes your day. It was so adorable getting to see Dino as a dad.
There was action and a few deaths and some manipulations, but quite frankly, I didn't care what Dino did, as long as he got his happiness. *Shrugs*
And again, that ending. I cannot even say how happy I was to read how things ended.
July 4, 2020
4,5 Estrellas.
Ame este libro!!! Por lejos esta es la pareja que mas me ha gustado de todos los protagonistas de BK. 😍😍😍
Me quede con una sensación agridulce despues de leer el final de la historia de amor entre Dino y Karen, aunque no pude pedir un final mejor, solo espero que en algún momento sepamos más de ellos.
Ame este libro!!! Por lejos esta es la pareja que mas me ha gustado de todos los protagonistas de BK. 😍😍😍
Me quede con una sensación agridulce despues de leer el final de la historia de amor entre Dino y Karen, aunque no pude pedir un final mejor, solo espero que en algún momento sepamos más de ellos.
January 29, 2023
4.5 Stars
I devoured Worth of Waste in one day. The writing flowed effortlessly no matter whether the story was reflecting on the good times or the bad. Whereas my head was spinning at the end of Waste of Worth (Part One of the DeLuca Duet) with Worth of Waste, what I experienced was calm and contentment. Don’t get me wrong, I wanted more, but there was a sense of closure to Dino DeLuca’s story.
During The Chicago War Series, Dino was a character who stayed under the radar of his siblings and his counterparts within the mob. Now having finished this duet, it is evident why he did what he did. His life was full of tragedy, but it was his attempts to distance his siblings and Karen from suffering the same that set him apart.
Dino fought hard to keep Karen out of the prying eyes of his cruel uncle. With both Karen and Dino being mature characters, they were able to sustain hope in each other during the toughest of challenges. They exuded compatibility when they spent time together, finding joy in the simple art of companionship. When they ventured out on rare occasions, their appreciation of these stolen moments was heartwarming.
The story is far from smooth or sweet, and it is harsh with harrowing situations to face. There were numerous reminders of the frailty of life. Neither Dino nor Karen took their good fortune for granted. Unexpected circumstances dictated the choices they made, embracing each situation to keep their promises to each other. Their son, JD, provided the symbol of hope and light hearted moments of reprieve that mirrored Karen and Dino’s dreams for the future.
Karen’s patience was saintly. A couple of her decisions caused concern, mainly because she acted out of desperation rather than careful consideration. Her vulnerability was as endearing as her stoic stance in standing by Dino. Abiding by his wishes, accepting his fate and being the one that added the sunshine to his life. A warmth he thought would be denied to him because of his heritage.
I doubt I will ever tire of reading about the DeLuca siblings. They have all survived the horrors that would have quashed many a soul. Their memories blazoned into their hearts, fueling their resolve to find happiness beyond the clutches of the monster who remained a threat to them. The DeLuca Duet is a story I was curious but sceptical about how it would stay true to what was known. Dino’s departure required acceptance of the facts on my part. Having enjoyed both books in this series, that’s an aspect I am willing to embrace for the sake of a great story overall.
Dino’s story is unusual because it’s a mafia romance where the main characters do not embrace the lifestyle nor is it cast in a favourable light. Not that the other mafia novels are either, but hey – I get so wrapped up in the drama I willingly accept the horror and inevitable rivers of blood flowing between the romance! While the ending left me wanting more, I loved it. I’m not sure if it was good luck on not being interrupted or whether the writing enabled me to read the book in one day. Whatever the reason, this duet has been a delight to read!
I received an advanced copy of this book
I devoured Worth of Waste in one day. The writing flowed effortlessly no matter whether the story was reflecting on the good times or the bad. Whereas my head was spinning at the end of Waste of Worth (Part One of the DeLuca Duet) with Worth of Waste, what I experienced was calm and contentment. Don’t get me wrong, I wanted more, but there was a sense of closure to Dino DeLuca’s story.
During The Chicago War Series, Dino was a character who stayed under the radar of his siblings and his counterparts within the mob. Now having finished this duet, it is evident why he did what he did. His life was full of tragedy, but it was his attempts to distance his siblings and Karen from suffering the same that set him apart.
Dino fought hard to keep Karen out of the prying eyes of his cruel uncle. With both Karen and Dino being mature characters, they were able to sustain hope in each other during the toughest of challenges. They exuded compatibility when they spent time together, finding joy in the simple art of companionship. When they ventured out on rare occasions, their appreciation of these stolen moments was heartwarming.
The story is far from smooth or sweet, and it is harsh with harrowing situations to face. There were numerous reminders of the frailty of life. Neither Dino nor Karen took their good fortune for granted. Unexpected circumstances dictated the choices they made, embracing each situation to keep their promises to each other. Their son, JD, provided the symbol of hope and light hearted moments of reprieve that mirrored Karen and Dino’s dreams for the future.
Karen’s patience was saintly. A couple of her decisions caused concern, mainly because she acted out of desperation rather than careful consideration. Her vulnerability was as endearing as her stoic stance in standing by Dino. Abiding by his wishes, accepting his fate and being the one that added the sunshine to his life. A warmth he thought would be denied to him because of his heritage.
I doubt I will ever tire of reading about the DeLuca siblings. They have all survived the horrors that would have quashed many a soul. Their memories blazoned into their hearts, fueling their resolve to find happiness beyond the clutches of the monster who remained a threat to them. The DeLuca Duet is a story I was curious but sceptical about how it would stay true to what was known. Dino’s departure required acceptance of the facts on my part. Having enjoyed both books in this series, that’s an aspect I am willing to embrace for the sake of a great story overall.
Dino’s story is unusual because it’s a mafia romance where the main characters do not embrace the lifestyle nor is it cast in a favourable light. Not that the other mafia novels are either, but hey – I get so wrapped up in the drama I willingly accept the horror and inevitable rivers of blood flowing between the romance! While the ending left me wanting more, I loved it. I’m not sure if it was good luck on not being interrupted or whether the writing enabled me to read the book in one day. Whatever the reason, this duet has been a delight to read!
I received an advanced copy of this book
February 7, 2017
*ARC provided by author.*
4.5 finally have some closure stars.
*Thank you BK for hearing our pleas for this series*
Oh that end...the epilogue...
"Dino was going to keep letting them be fine.
They didn't need him now.
He'd done his job.
He'd kept his promises."
All unanswered questions, all suspicions, theories and doubts were all answered and eased with these two books. Dino was always a character I wanted more on. I wanted his story, I wanted his past, I wanted...HIM LOL! He's a man who has had a hard life. Who has had to face, work under and obey people who turned their backs on him and his siblings violent upbringing and parents murder.
His life in the Chicago Outfit has made him into a cold emotionless man.
It was really hard for me to read about how Theo and Lily acted towards him. I know he never showed/acted in a loving, caring manner towards his siblings... but they will never know what Dino went through to make their lives as close to heaven as he could while he lived in hell.
I'm so...completely satisfied. Each DeLuca sibling got their HEA, after all they've been through they deserved the happiness they have.
God I'm so happy and heart broken at the same. Loved this.
Oh and I have to add this...LOL...Karen, God was she annoying. Doing stupid stuff like showing up at the prison and then later on almost going into the police station to talk to Dino right after a detective visited her wanting info on Dino and she claimed to know nothing!!!??? Damn stupid head. She knows who he is, who he's involved with (Mafia) and that is not some joke sweetheart...that's life and damn death and she just...is so stupid. I was screaming at her to "think of JD think of JD"... Lord please help this woman.
4.5 finally have some closure stars.
*Thank you BK for hearing our pleas for this series*
Oh that end...the epilogue...
"Dino was going to keep letting them be fine.
They didn't need him now.
He'd done his job.
He'd kept his promises."
All unanswered questions, all suspicions, theories and doubts were all answered and eased with these two books. Dino was always a character I wanted more on. I wanted his story, I wanted his past, I wanted...HIM LOL! He's a man who has had a hard life. Who has had to face, work under and obey people who turned their backs on him and his siblings violent upbringing and parents murder.
His life in the Chicago Outfit has made him into a cold emotionless man.
It was really hard for me to read about how Theo and Lily acted towards him. I know he never showed/acted in a loving, caring manner towards his siblings... but they will never know what Dino went through to make their lives as close to heaven as he could while he lived in hell.
I'm so...completely satisfied. Each DeLuca sibling got their HEA, after all they've been through they deserved the happiness they have.
God I'm so happy and heart broken at the same. Loved this.
Oh and I have to add this...LOL...Karen, God was she annoying. Doing stupid stuff like showing up at the prison and then later on almost going into the police station to talk to Dino right after a detective visited her wanting info on Dino and she claimed to know nothing!!!??? Damn stupid head. She knows who he is, who he's involved with (Mafia) and that is not some joke sweetheart...that's life and damn death and she just...is so stupid. I was screaming at her to "think of JD think of JD"... Lord please help this woman.
February 6, 2017
***ARC PROVIDED FOR REVIEW***
Don't let the 3 stars fool you. It was good. It wasn't intricate while remaining light and fun like the previous novel but it took a more serious tone and fill in gaps we weren't even aware of.
From I read the blurb I already figured out the ending and it was exactly as I called it. I even jokingly said it as a suggestion to the author on Instagram where her silence spoke louder than if she was to deny it all. Still, I was antsy after page one and wanted to zoom my kindle to the end just to make sure I was right. I didn't though and for that I am glad because it heightened my experience and made me appreciate the different view point of the Chicago Outfit series that led to the final outcome for 'Worth of Waste'.
If I didn't love Dino and Karen before then I love them even more now. They are the least complicated and most brutally honest couple I have ever had the pleasure of meeting in real and fiction life. They don't overdo the traits that make them compatible and I can see these two people together forever. They are soulmates and I don't even believe in that crap!
I would have loved more time spent showing us how Dino plot the attacks because Bethany-Kris has proved herself a master story teller when it comes to the strategies and plays of the mafia world.
Dino has always been my favourite character from the Outfit series and if you are a fan also then you will appreciate the closure and warmth this novel provided for all those individuals who didn't see him as nothing more than a memory of 'Deathless & Divided'. I felt ever tear, scream and profanity. It was definitely worth the wait.
Don't let the 3 stars fool you. It was good. It wasn't intricate while remaining light and fun like the previous novel but it took a more serious tone and fill in gaps we weren't even aware of.
From I read the blurb I already figured out the ending and it was exactly as I called it. I even jokingly said it as a suggestion to the author on Instagram where her silence spoke louder than if she was to deny it all. Still, I was antsy after page one and wanted to zoom my kindle to the end just to make sure I was right. I didn't though and for that I am glad because it heightened my experience and made me appreciate the different view point of the Chicago Outfit series that led to the final outcome for 'Worth of Waste'.
If I didn't love Dino and Karen before then I love them even more now. They are the least complicated and most brutally honest couple I have ever had the pleasure of meeting in real and fiction life. They don't overdo the traits that make them compatible and I can see these two people together forever. They are soulmates and I don't even believe in that crap!
I would have loved more time spent showing us how Dino plot the attacks because Bethany-Kris has proved herself a master story teller when it comes to the strategies and plays of the mafia world.
Dino has always been my favourite character from the Outfit series and if you are a fan also then you will appreciate the closure and warmth this novel provided for all those individuals who didn't see him as nothing more than a memory of 'Deathless & Divided'. I felt ever tear, scream and profanity. It was definitely worth the wait.
February 26, 2017
I'd give this 2 1/2 stars if possible. It's not the worst, but still boring to me. Maybe I'd be more invested in Dino if I'd read the Chicago Wars
series first.
series first.
June 28, 2021
Puro sufrimiento este libro pero como yo soy masoquista, me encantó.
November 6, 2025
¡Dino está vivo!
No podía empezar con otra frase que no fuera esa. Sufrí mucho cuando Dino muere al final de Deathless & Divided, y cuando me enteré que Dino tenía su propia biología mantuve al 100% mi esperanza de que estuviera vivo.
Este libro continúa donde quedó el libro anterior. Dino está preso por un año y miedo (por culpa de su tío Ben, ese maldito malnacido), y Karen debe salir adelante sola y con un bebé.
Lo que me gusta de Karen es que es una mujer fuerte e independiente, es paciente y no saca conclusiones precipitadas, siempre espera por una respuesta antes de tomar cualquier decisión. No es dramática ni exagerada, y es muy abierta sobre sus emociones.
¿Y el efecto que tiene en Dino? Él puede ser todo lo abierto que quiera sobre sus sentimientos o pensamientos y Karen siempre estará ahí para escucharlo y comprenderlo.
Me dolió que ella estuviera dispuesta a conformarse con lo poco que Dino le daba, dispuesta a tenerlo solo un par de días a la semana con la incertidumbre de si él estará ahí cuando despierte a la mañana siguiente o no. Pero supongo que eso hace el amor, estar dispuesta a esperar.
El pequeño Junior también se llevó mi corazón. Es tan adorable, y ama profundamente a su padre, cada vez que Dino llega a casa él no puede apartar la mirada de su padre.
Y ese final me dió tanta paz como la que le dió a Dino al ver a sus hermanos apoyándose entre ellos y felices. Poder estar en paz y permitirse ser feliz es lo mínimo que Dino se merecía.
No podía empezar con otra frase que no fuera esa. Sufrí mucho cuando Dino muere al final de Deathless & Divided, y cuando me enteré que Dino tenía su propia biología mantuve al 100% mi esperanza de que estuviera vivo.
Este libro continúa donde quedó el libro anterior. Dino está preso por un año y miedo (por culpa de su tío Ben, ese maldito malnacido), y Karen debe salir adelante sola y con un bebé.
Lo que me gusta de Karen es que es una mujer fuerte e independiente, es paciente y no saca conclusiones precipitadas, siempre espera por una respuesta antes de tomar cualquier decisión. No es dramática ni exagerada, y es muy abierta sobre sus emociones.
¿Y el efecto que tiene en Dino? Él puede ser todo lo abierto que quiera sobre sus sentimientos o pensamientos y Karen siempre estará ahí para escucharlo y comprenderlo.
Me dolió que ella estuviera dispuesta a conformarse con lo poco que Dino le daba, dispuesta a tenerlo solo un par de días a la semana con la incertidumbre de si él estará ahí cuando despierte a la mañana siguiente o no. Pero supongo que eso hace el amor, estar dispuesta a esperar.
El pequeño Junior también se llevó mi corazón. Es tan adorable, y ama profundamente a su padre, cada vez que Dino llega a casa él no puede apartar la mirada de su padre.
Y ese final me dió tanta paz como la que le dió a Dino al ver a sus hermanos apoyándose entre ellos y felices. Poder estar en paz y permitirse ser feliz es lo mínimo que Dino se merecía.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews