Captivated

by Bethany-Kris

A shadow meets the light … When someone needs to disappear, the Chicago mob calls on Joe Rossi. A man who can move without a sound, and kill without a word, they don’t call him the Shadow for nothing. This time, it’s a New York crime family in need of his skills, but it takes one glimpse of her to make him agree to the job. Liliana Marcello is every inch a principessa della mafia. Her life has taught her to be wary of strangers, yet her ballet career contradicts everything by putting her on display. It’s a man with a dark smile and a constantly changing demeanor that makes her feel safe again, but it’s the unknown that holds her back. It takes one look … One dance …One word … One smile to captivate a man. And one second to kill a woman because of it, too. Not all monsters hide in the shadows. How are you supposed to see them coming?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Mafia Romance, Dark, Adult, Abuse, Crime

260 pages, Paperback

First published July 9, 2018

About the author

The 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.

Reviews

[Natalie ~ The Biblioholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

And the Queen of mafia romance has done it again! I don’t know how she does it, but Bethany-Kris has once again outdone herself. How does she constantly give me exactly what I need? She gives me these characters that grab at my freaking soul! They touch some part of me that I didn’t even know existed. She evokes emotions that I didn’t even know I had in me. And every time I pick up one of her books, no matter the subject, no matter the consequences, no matter what she puts me through, all I ever feel is an almost overwhelming outpouring of love. I love you, woman! For gifting me with your words, your incredibly well-thought out and amazingly constructed plots, and for the beauty of the characters that you create.

I have so much to say about Joe, so let me deal with Liliana first.

She played her character beyond just the dancing, and perhaps even, took the persona on for the moments she was on stage.
It was amazing.
She was beautiful.
He thought, at first sight, she had kind of captivated him. And seeing her like this only added to that strange enchantment, really. - Joe

I loved that she was a ballerina and was serious about her art, however she acknowledged that it wasn’t going to be her life and that she had a plan for her future. Girl had goals! Okay, she’s obviously a principessa della mafia and the much loved daughter of Lucian and Jordyn. So she’s already ahead in points. Lucian was always my favorite Marcello (don’t tell Dante or Gio). Add in the fact that she’s John’s sister (and you already know how much I flove me some John) so my love for her is pretty much guaranteed. And then she had to be not only a survivor, but an all around amazing person. How could I not love her? She was completely self-aware, had no issues admitting when she was wrong or unsure, and had the gigantic heart that was always a winning feature of her family. What’s not to love? And the way she loved Joe?

Alright, so Joe. How can I sum up how I feel about Joe? How can I make you understand how incredible this character was for me? I’m sure I won’t even do him justice, but that’s okay because you’re going to get this book and find out for yourself.

Joe was the epitome of what all heroes (anti-heroes) created by this author encapsulate. He was charming, handsome, dominant, confident, intelligent, observant, considerate, kind, respectful, assertive, to-the-point, sexy, serious, funny, and loving. There are so many more adjectives I could list out, but I think you get the point. He. Was. Awesome!! What first drew me to him was how much he reminded me of his father, Damian Rossi. Now I so easily fell in love with Damian when I read Deathless and Divided. He was just so easy to love! I adored his silence, his integrity, his honor, his love, his everything. He was a feared assassin, The Ghost, and his son Joe (The Shadow) was like a mini-D and I couldn’t have been happier.

The author was right. Antoni Bialy really does make a great Joe. Thanks!

From the moment his eyes met hers, Joe was all about Liliana. He didn’t rush, he didn’t push, he didn’t press. He knew she was his person and she knew he was hers. They were meant to be and it was obvious to everyone. I loved how he didn’t fight it, but rather embraced the inevitability of it. I loved so much about this man. He was a cold-blooded killer and yet he had so much warmth to him. It was evident in the way he treated his parents, his brother, his sister, his peers, his elders, but most importantly, it was clear in how he treated Liliana. Very quickly, she became his world, which was both a blessing and a curse. She was a distraction in the best of ways. He was happier than he’d ever been. And for someone who never did relationships, he was confused by how eager he was to shackle himself to her. LOVED HIM!!

There were tons of issues that Joe and Liliana had to work through in order to achieve their happy ending but I was so happy to see that the issues didn’t stem from them. Lives are in danger and thankfully these two had armies made up of the Marcellos and the Rossis to have their backs. This story was at once sexy and romantic with plenty of thrills and terror to shake things up. I have no clue what’s going to happen to these families or whose story will turn up next on my kindle, but I can absolutely assure you that I will always stay tuned!

✫✫✫ ARC provided for an honest review ✫✫✫

Release: July 9, 2018 | Genre: Mafia Romance | Dual POV - 3rd person | Heat: 4 | Standalone - character crossover

[✰ Liz ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

★4.5★

"Life. Love. Forever."

Captivated is a non-stop action mafia romance with smoking hot passion and tender romance. Joe Rossie is a highly respected Chicago hitman for the mob. When he is called to New York City to assist in a special project for a New York crime family, he meets the beautiful mafia princess Liliana Marcello and he is completely captivated by her. Liliana is a professional ballet dancer who is no stranger to the idiosyncrasies of the life of a crime family. Although she has been focused on her career and tried to stay away from love, Liliana is drawn to Joe and the two form an instant connection. When passion transforms into deep love, Liliana begins to trust Joe with her heart. Joe feels an authentic connection to Liliana and yet, he knows that when she finds out the truth about why he is in Chicago, he might lose her forever.

"Joe didn’t relent the second his mouth was back on her pussy. He was the starving man, and she was the fucking feast spread out before him."

"You want me to pet that pussy?"

Told in dual POV, Captivated is packed with action, suspense, and intrigue. The characters are complex and the plot takes off like a race car on a NASCAR track. In other words, you better buckle up because the plot is full of twists and turns that will make you catch your breath and stop your heart. The connection between Joe and Liliana is explored thoroughly as each moment seamlessly flows into the next. The dirty talking dialogue delivered by Joe is sure to leave any reader swooning and begging for more! The passion and romance between the two are smoking hot and I could not turn the page fast enough to see what would happen next.

Overall, I highly recommend Captivated to readers who enjoy action, romance, passion, and good old-fashioned mafia fun! With an alpha hero and his beautiful dancer, this stand-alone romance will melt your kindle and your heart. This is my first Bethany-Kris read and I can guarantee it will not be my last. I am officially hooked and cannot wait for my next Bethany-Kris read.

*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!

For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[Bethany-Kris]

Joe Rossi and Liliana Marcello

NOW LIVE!

Amazon US | https://amzn.to/2tU0XQa
Amazon UK | https://amzn.to/2lX5ahv
Amazon CA | https://amzn.to/2tWl1Bo
Amazon AUS | https://amzn.to/2NqDhLB

Cover revealed!



Cover by London Miller.
Photo by Michael Stokes.
Model: Antoni Bialy

[Bev · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re-read October 2019 - Loved it just as much this time around, this author just does it for me

Original review
Captivated. That I was, totally and utterly.

Only Bethany-Kris can take two young characters, give them “old souls” and make it all about them rather than their ages. And she did it with Joe and Liliana to perfection, once I started their story I never gave it another thought. There’s no NA drama or melodramatics

Another thing I adore about her writing is her characters. I love the way they love each other, I love that it’s not rushed, they fall into like before falling in love. It’s just so real and believable. I fell so hard for both Joe and Liliana who are absolutely perfect for each other. Joe is just incredible, gah that man had me (a grandma!) swooning so many times it’s ridiculous! Liliana is quietly strong, despite what she survived.

Captivated is a gentler read than her other mafia books, its more relationship driven though we still get to catch up with the Marcello and Rossi famiglia; and there’s a good suspense line running through but still, the focus is all on Joe and Liliana. BK made them work for their happy but wow! Was it ever worth the work. Fan-bloody-tastic

All the stars for this one, I LOVED it!

[Snow · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 'Tesoro' stars

Joseph/Joe Rossi (the son of Damien and Lily Rossi, Chicago Outfit)

"When the Outfit wants someone gone...they send the Shadow." Because he moved quietly, as though he wasn't there at all. Because he blended in with the crowd, and was never really seen. Because in darkness, and in the shadows, he was the most dangerous.

and The Marcellos called upon his services...
More in fact, Lucian Marcello had a personal agenda and a retaliation in game but the risks of having a Marcello name in the public eye concerning the matter would have to be avoid at all costs...

the task seemed simple, it was what Joe did-eliminating marks - for far long as he was inducted in the field of Made men, at the age of 15...but something with this particular marks spiked his doubtful nature...and the moment his sight was set on Lucian's daughter, Liliana Marcello , the instant pull made this task even more intense, cause she was more than the etheral beauty, who moved with grace, like floating on water and when his duties futhered towards guarding her from the shadows, her features and her dancing became even more alluring...

Liliana turned into someone else, too, when she danced. Some kind of human-angel hybrid moving across the stage with the kind of grace and beauty he hadn't quite seen before... It was amazing. She was beautiful.

Just then, after they both fall into the bliss of mutual chemistry and the feelings develop, so do the bits and pieces of the dreadful events that Liliana went through, fall into the complete picture and Joe's task becomes more personal than ever, when the love of his life once again finds herself in life danger, and only nano-seconds count in saving her...

Once again, I simply loved this story...sure, it wasn't the absolute perfection, if there's even such a thing... and sure the theme is nothing you haven't already read about in one way or the other, of course, it had little bits of this and that, that could have been different BUT then again, I couldn't care less about it all, cause generally speaking, It felt bloody good, and it was, in fact, the perfect story for ME!

P.s. Bethany, you know, I thought I couldn't love my all time fave Marcello -Lucian, more than I already do...but you have proven me wrong LOL

Hopelessly devoted Lucian's biatch! Lol😉

And just to conclude this last bit of my ranting, this story was easy flowing filled with passion, tension and action with recognizable mark of Bethany's writing style and, to me, it was, simply put- captivating!


***ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***

[Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 “The One”Stars


This story Captivated Me Completely and Stole My Heart. Joe Rossi and Liliana Marcello knew from a glance that there was a “something” between them. A something that lit a spark, that ignited a flame, that started slow and cautiously, but eventually combusted.

The Marcello Family and The Rossi Family come from different states but live the same life. Two different Cosa Nostra families that don’t mix unless a favor is needed. And when a Marcello needs a specific favor, Joe Rossi is asked. Beginning with the trip from Chicago to NYC, the captivating writing of this author begins to weave a journey filled with a purpose, a mystery, an infatuation, and a sassy and fiery relationship that grows into a love story. I literally couldn’t stop reading about Joe and Liliana.

Joe is the strong, dominant, silent type of man......like a Shadow. He has a special skill set within the Rossi family. He loves his family but his life within the family is written in stone. Liliana is a Marcello principessa. Her father is Lucien Marcello. She’s a dancer, a survivor and a bit sassy. They have a quick and dynamic banter that is high on sexual tension and snarky retorts. They find an ease with one another that is both surprising and calming in each other’s eyes. But their journey is filled with omissions that will test them because of the life they lead and who they are.

But this story, besides being about Joe and Liliana, is also infused with members of both families. They play key roles in the story as well as in this couple’s relationship. Joe and Liliana’s relationship occurs because of business between the two families. So while this is a love story, it is also very much a story within a story, of righting a wrong, and of finally handling an issue that has gone on far too long unhandled.

I also loved the relationship between Joe and Liliana’s father, Lucien. Both men were men of few words and were very similar. Watching Joe walk the tightrope of protecting Liliana and also falling in love with her, while her father was ever present was another element of the story that shined for me. And while there wasn’t a lot of intersection between Joe and Johnathan, Liliana’s brother, there was a scene that melted my heart. And then I could start on Joe and his brother, Cory. So much of this story I absolutely loved, loved loved!!

I highly recommend this book to.....
#MafiaRomanceLovers
#EroticLovers
#RomanticSuspenseLovers
#OrganizedCrimeLovers

*advance copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review*

[XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook review. I’m hooked on Bethany-Kris Mafia books. She has this ability to create these worlds whose imagery, mechanics, and characters I can immerse myself in with very little effort.

The plot hooked me from the start. I felt the connection between Liliana Marcello and Joe Rossi like if I was there watching it happen. They had great chemistry. As individuals, they were more realistic because they had flaws and made mistakes.

There were a couple of grammatical/prose issues I noted. For example: “Her excuse was on the lip of her tongue.” I don’t know if it was the author or the narrator but it didn’t occur often enough for it to detract from the full experience.

The narrator, Daniel James Lewis, had a great voice overall. His portrayal of Joe’s dirty talk was particularly good. I had to speed up the pace a little but that may just be due to personal preference. The one area of opportunity to note were in the transitions between scenes. They jumped within the same chapter and there was no clear marker that the scene was changing. Perhaps a pause would’ve helped.

Complimentary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow I just loved this book.

That one line could actually be my review. Anything else just seem unnecessary. So it’s going to be brief.

Joe Rossi is an amazing character. But then he’s Damian’s son so I didn’t expect anything else. I loved him from the get go.
He was captivated by Liliana the instant he caught sight of her.
Liliana was equally drawn to Joe. She’s the Marcello principessa. But past events have left her feeling wary and unsure. But Joe feels safe.

I only have one complaint. It it ended far too soon. I wanted more.

[Malene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Captivated is my first book from Bethany Kris and it won’t be my last. I enjoy a good mafia romance and with Captivated the author has created a very entertaining story. I was immersed immediately thanks to her writing which was straight to the point, no holding back, and intriguing characters. Joe and Liliana caught my attention from the start and their connection was instant. Joe is a fascinating man who kills or make people disappear. One would think his soul would be very dark but he has mastered the skill of being a killer. Knows how to separate the two. Joe and the other persona who kills which he names Shadow.
Liliana who’s part of the mafia environment thanks to her father is not scared or dumb when it comes to Joe. Their relationship is exciting, thrilling and very sexy. After being introduced to Joe and Liliana’s family and can’t wait to read their stories. A wonderful introduction to this new to me author.

4 Tesoro Stars

[Dilek VT · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is either too bad, like really too bad, or not my cuppa at all. Can't bother to think and decide... wasted a lot of my time already :((((

* Note to self: Do not ever try anything else from this writer.

[A Klue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivated is exactly how I felt while reading this book, my fellow mafia romance book loving friends. You know what I’m talking about. When you have a long list of things you really should be doing, but instead find yourself pinned to your chair reading page after page because you just can’t help yourself.

It also perfectly describes how Joe Rossi felt the moment he first laid eyes on sweet Liliana Marcello. She had him even moments before their first official hello. One glance and he was pretty much head over heels, folks. Liliana likewise couldn’t seem to break his mesmerizing stare or control the chemistry that constantly sizzled between them. I loved that consistent connection between them.

A young, smoldering, sexy like version of Brad Pitt sporting a playful smirk as he conversed with and got to know Liliana kept coming to mind. A calm, quiet, but lethal when necessary mobster man, who preferred solitude and shadows, she brought out a side of him seldom seen by others. Fortunately for her, his dark side didn’t think twice about dishing out vengeance to eliminate threats and delve out justice mafioso style.

Liliana’s sweet but resilient, damsel in distress character’s big reveal is something you’ll need to brace yourself for, folks, including a series of events that unfold that do not let up until every single aspect has been dealt with.

Though you don’t have to read any previous books to enjoy this one, there are several sub-characters and riveting past mafioso family history you’ll more fully appreciate and mentally tap into if you’ve read The Filthy Marcellos and Chicago War series. Lucian, Liliana’s father, especially is one character I highly recommend you get to know up close and personal. I’ve always had a special sweet spot for this particular Marcellos brother. His love for his daughter has no limits, just like his connection with his lady love wife. I think you’ll be captivated by their HEA, as well.

Romance Safety Gang: Romance safe, no cheating, no love triangle, no OW drama. Both have been celibate awhile. Joe didn’t come across as a manho. No OM drama...except a jealous/abusive ex-boyfriend scenario. Disturbing, brutal beating. Not sure if he raped her a year earlier.

Title: Captivated, Author: Bethany-Kris, Pages: NL, stand-alone but part of a linked series, mafia backdrop, good guy mobster hero, sweet/resilient ballerina heroine, graphic violence, not a manho, romance safe, no love triangle, no cheating, no OW/OM drama, jealous/abusive ex-boyfriend.

(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/PR firm.)

[Grecia Robles · Rating 2 out of 5]

Bethany-Kris es una experta y especialista en crear historias de mafia romance. Algunas de sus series pertenecen al mismo mundo y están conectadas pero no se parecen entre sí tienen algo único.
Pero siempre hay historias mejores que otras unas que han sido impresionantes y otras meh.

Este libro cae en la segunda categoría, la historia fue entretenida por lapsos, los personajes no son malos pero tampoco brillan pero sobre todo encontré muchas cosas muy absurdas e incongruentes que hizo que la historia fuera poco creíble.

Joe Rossi es la sombra el ejecutor que contra el Oufit de Chicago para que le hagan su trabajo sucio pero de una manera que no deje rastro, prácticamente es lo mismo que hacía su padre que es nada más ni menos que Damian el protagonista del primer libro de la serie The Chicago War y es contratado por la familia Marcello de la Cosa Nostra en NY.
Liliana Marcello es hija de Lucian protagonista del primer libro de la serie Dirty Marcellos

No quería hacer spoilers pero va a ser inevitable así que aquí va Joe es contratado para matar a dos tipo de alto perfil un senador y el jefe de la policía pero en el camino se le encomienda cuidar de Liliana
Lo que no sabe es que todo está conectado con ella ya que el hijo del senador era novio de Liliana, era controlador, abusivo y la golpeó hasta casi matarla pero como hijo de una persona influyente no le hacen nada.
Hasta la vuelve atacar la secuestra estando bajo el cuidado de Joe el fucking ejecutor del Outfit I mean.. WTF?!!!!
El tipo no solo jodió con una poderosa organización de mafiosos sino con DOS.

Lo que no puedo creer se me hace inconcebible es que Lucian y Dante no hacen nada que por la policía, una policía que ya estaba comprada, que no pudieron ellos sobornar a un juez o que se yo.
Los hicieron ver como tontos, unos novatos con cero inteligencia son MAFIOSOS se pasan la ley por el arco del triunfo.

Y la nueva generación muy decepcionante a Joe nos lo pintan muy parecido a su padre pero NOOOPE, Damian era inteligente, implacable y nunca hubiera cometido los errores que cometió Joe.

Esta historia se me hizo inverosímil, si el villano el abusador de Liliana hubiera sido otro mafioso parte de una poderosa familia y que fuera su esposo lo entendería pero ni así o sea es sobrina e hija del Don y el underboss.

No todo fue malo hubo momentos lindos entre Liliana y Joe y sobre todo Cory el hermano de Joe que fue el único inteligente y que hizo algo.

[Ari Reavis · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Received from author*

Well, it comes as absolutely no surprise that I loved this book. I was ecstatic to meet the Rossi's again and see some of the Chicago outfit men, and of course my precious Marcello's.
Joe, The Shadow, was a quiet mystery and it took nothing more than a look for Liliana to get under his skin and mask. She was everything Joe needed to open up and he was exactly what she needed to trust again. I loved seeing her passion and sacrifices for ballet throughout the book. Their sex scenes....Joe was quite the filthy talker and I loved it.
He came to NY for a job and once all the pieces came together on why he'd gotten the job in the first place, I WAS READY FOR VENGEANCE! I really enjoyed reading about the relationships Joe and Liliana have with their siblings.
The ending had my heart beating like I'd run a marathon with anxiety and worry, but I loved the action and suspense. The epilogue was beautiful and made my heart so happy.

[Ezi Chinny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bethany-Kris came through on this one. It was fully of passion, mystery, suspense and lots of cameos of characters from her prior novels. The narrator Daniel James Lewis was a really good choice for Joe Rossi because there wasn't excessive emotion in his voice, he was rather chill/calm just like Joe was described.

Joe Rossi is the "shadow" enforcer for the Chicago Outfit (mafia) and he avoids being seen and heard. When he is called to New York to handle a problem and Joe didn't expect to find the eldest daughter of the Boss so captivating. Liliana Marcello, a ballet dancer, wasn't really wanting a relationship but she couldn't help her intense attraction to the man who was working with her father. Both of them were similar in that they are private people who were clear in what they wanted. They didn't make unnecessary demands and they just enjoyed themselves together. Joe and Liliana had that palpable chemistry that made me giddy.

[Carlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

If Bethany-Kris writes it, I read it. I'm always up for mafia blood shed, the dialogue she writes so well, and the sexy moments the characters share when the world isn't all guns and action. Captivated has been a long-awaited book for me, I've been dying to know about the ballerina Bethany-Kris has been writing about since she first started hinting about her. Liliana Marcello, daughter of Lucian Marcello, is graceful, delicate, and fairly naive when it comes to her family's name and profession. Aware of her role as principesa, she doesn't ask questions, she doesn't snoop, and up until the arrival of Joe she's never been curious. Joe Rossi, son of Damien and Lily Rossi of the Chicago Outfit, is as handsome as he is strong. He reveals to Liliana a side of himself that he keeps closed off when amongst made men, showing that he is soft and sweet.

"He was the worst kind of sinner. It never seemed to matter."

In New York on business for the Marcellos, Joe knows better than to reveal his interest in Lucian's daughter, but something about her calls to him. Whether it is her graceful way of walking, her captivating way of dancing, or the strength she reveals when avoiding the advances of a former flame, he cannot stop thinking about her. Distraction is dangerous though, especially when you're the Shadow, a hitman no one can detect with two marks to be had in New York. When they are pushed together by circumstance the two give in to the chemistry, though the past and secrets have a way of pushing them apart. Joe wants Liliana for himself, but more than anything, he wants to protect her from the darkness that is trying to haunt her once again.

"Liliana saw Joe. She has deen him. That was enough for her."

I LOVED Joe and I loved Liliana. They are young characters, one very aware of his role in the Chicago Outfit and one principesa who has embraced her family none-the-wiser of their roles in the New York mafia. Joe is immature in many ways, but also so mature in ways he seems to young to be. He has seen things, yet he holds onto his faith and his hope. Liliana has been dealt a bad had in recent past, thriving most when she's on stage dancing and left cowering and withering when the name connected to her recent past is brought up. The two share instant chemistry, the kind of chemistry that should be ignored due to the nature of Joe's visit, and yet it works for them. It's a hot push and pull, filled with blush-worthy smut. While it is a complicated connection, built on lust and secrets, it is still a relationship you root for.

"Liliana saw Joe. She has deen him. That was enough for her."

Captivated is classic crime family romance, but with a youthful touch that I really enjoyed. Joe's view of his role as the Shadow for the Outfit is unique and Liliana's distance from her own family was very different from previous Bethany-Kris principesa characters. There was just the right amount of suspense, crime, and romance to make this mafia fiction lover happy.

ARC provided.

[Kim Brewing · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anytime I am in a but of a slump I know right where to go - a Bethany-Kris book!!

Joe and Liliana are both children of the mob. One totally entrenched in the lifestyle and one living on the fringes but with just one glance their lives change. This story has it all and I soaked up every word. A great standalone, but with names that will be recognizable to a Bethany-Kris reader.

[Kate]

DNF 31%

[S.M. West · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, the cover is ENOUGH to want to make you pick up this book! BUT let me tell you, the story is just as gorgeous! Dare I say CAPTIVATING!!!

I loved Joe and Liliana's story and didn't want it to end. Not only was this an amazing love story with two characters that you can't help but root for from the moment they step on the pages, it was also filled with thrills and chills like only BK can give!!

Bethany has a way of drawing you in and you don't even realize. Like Joe, the moment he saw Liliana, he was mesmerized by her, and so was I. I wanted to know more and couldn't wait for those two to get started. And at times, I was on the edge of my seat or clutching my chest or simply going gaga over Joe.

I highly recommend this book and can't wait for more!

*ARC generously provided by the author.*



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[S. Popi · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 + stars because that was fricking intense...

I'm very frustrated that no matter how much I try, I can't write a review to do this book any justice.
I can't say it took me by surprise how flawless this story was because I've read all of Bethany-Kris books and I know that for me, she is the best mafia writer bar none
But the intensity, oh God... I have no words to explain how this book left me.
My head's still spinning.

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's start off by saying that this is a new author for us, and we are really enjoying her stories.

I really enjoyed this tale, it was griping suspenseful and a really great love story. I have to say I really loved the main characters, Joe and Liliana were complete opposites yet fit each other so well. One thing they do have in common is that they are both from powerful crime families.

Liliana's career as a ballet dancer keeps her very busy which keeps her away from the family business, although she is not naive about her father and brother's she is not privy to how they conduct their business and I really feel she doesn't really know just how powerful and dangerous they really are.

Liliana and Joe form an instant connection, he too is from a Mafia family based in Chicago. This story reminded me a little bit of the story Beauty and the Beast.

I loved the chemistry and the connection that was there between these to as they made a cute couple their courtship was somewhat of a train wreck waiting to happen yet, they were super sexy and hot together when they came together for some hot and dirty sex. Lol, Joe is keeping secrets their entire courtship, first because it was family business and then to protect her. How do you court the girl you are crazy about without her realizing in actuality you are guarding her and not just a job ?

I have to say that I haven't really read a lot of the Mafia romance gene but, I have to say that the story kept me interested and turning the pages until the very end. The story had a great cast of characters and some twists and turns and a few surprises.

I loved both Liliana and Joe from the onset of the story, but, Joe became my favorite character this time around. Joe just kept surprising me at every turn because he kept doing things out of his comfort zone and out of character for him and also kept straying from the plan and then gets involved with finding out more about the job he was hired to do, things he never ever does. The cool and collected man is everything but, as Liliana has him totally off his game. Lol

"Grinning"

Overall we enjoyed this story as I found the characters to be love-able, intriguing, mysterious and that it had just the right amount of drama and suspense. I also loved the author style of writing and would love to read more books by her, and will have to start with one of her mafia series for sure.

We loved it !

[Mia Bui · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Joe Rossi & Lilliana Marcello. I love that the Marcello legacy continues to live on through their children. Their kids are just as good if not better than the OG’s- each a little more ruthless, a little sassier, and SEXIER!

Love at first sight/read with these two. Lilliana an exquisite ballerina who suffers a traumatic relationship with a crazy admirer with political connections- the plot twists and turns and it was so interesting to see Lucian in a different light-worried father, almost a bit helpless- his hands are tied in this one- which leads him to seeking out-ghosts son- SHADOW- Mr Joe Rossi- (bk’s muse- look him up you won’t regret it 🤤)

I will say what I love most about this book was the peek into the other Marcello and Rossi kids. Cory and Joe’s dynamic was a hoot...hoping to see Cory in the future. Liliana and her sisters- great to see some of their perspective on their brother-John (from loyalty & dishonored)- as an avid BK reader it was nice to tie it into that book.

If you’re new to Bethany-Kris’s world or a seasoned vet like me; you’ll be blissfully captivated (see what I did there 😉), laugh at the shit that comes out of those dirty alpha men, blown away by the strength of these women, and have your heart strings tugged guaranteed. Happy reading, you’re in for a treat! ♥️

[Fanny · Rating 2 out of 5]

Captivated es la peor con diferencia de las novelas de la segunda generacion de los Marcellos. No solo percibi la historia muy fria y sin vida, sino que ademas, la pareja protagonista me resulto forzada y nada atractiva.

Otro aspecto que no me convencio nada fue la trama en si, todo tiene un punto muy incoherente e infantil, creo sinceramente que las actitudes de estos personajes no concuerdan en lo absoluto con lo que venimos conociendo de ellos en los libros anteriores, algo similar me paso con Haven ( la protagonista femenina de Duty, Vow y One Last Time ) que de un libro al siguiente, su caracter cambio drasticamente.

En cuanto a la " historia de amor ", no tengo otra palabra para describirla que gris, en mi opinion, no tiene nada destacable o profundo, aunque no es una sorpresa puesto que Joe y Liliana tampoco destacan como unos grandes personajes, es mas, creo que eran mejores como personajes secundarios que como principales, tal vez asi, no se hubiese notado tanto lo planos y basicos que son.

Para terminar, Captivated tiene algunos detalles que no son del todo horribles, pero la verdad es que en este caso lo bueno no aplaca lo malo, no es una lectura que recomendaria completamente, siento que la autora tiene otras muchas creaciones que la dejan en un lugar mejor que esta.

2 Estrellas!

[MelissaB · Rating 4 out of 5]

** 3.5 stars **

This book felt a little Young Adult to me, the hero was 21 or so. The story was fine, I felt like the parents of the main characters were too much of a focus of the story but overall it was fine.

[Sammy ❤️Just Let Me Read Blog ❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivated was a sexy and suspenseful story that completely blew me away. Bethany-Kris is absolutely brilliant in this genre and she proves it once again with Joe and Liliana's story, weaving together heartfelt and emotional romance with just the right mix of suspense and angst.

Bethany-Kris writes her characters so well, bringing their feelings emotions to life through her words. I loved the way Joe and Liliana came together; the sweet, sheltered ballerina and the deadly enforcer known as Shadow. The pull between them was fierce from the moment they laid eyes on each other, and only grew stronger as the story went on. Liliana wasn't a typical mafia princess; she had her own dreams and ambitions apart from her family. She was a great mix of softness and strength. I love all of this author's heroes, but I have to say that Joe Rossi is currently sitting at the top of my list. He was such an intriguing man, cold and ruthless and fiercely loyal. Yet there was another side to him that he showed Liliana, one that was sweet and funny and charming. His affection for her was positively swoon-worthy. I enjoyed the different facets to his personality, and I especially loved the single-minded protectiveness that he displayed where Liliana was concerned. The tension between them was so well-written, and the intimate scenes were H-O-T. Joe in the bedroom was a special kind of treat for the reader. He and Liliana complimented each other perfectly, and the sex between them got hotter and hotter with each scene. The connection they forged went way beyond the physical, and the author really made me believe in this couple and their feelings for each other.

The storyline was incredibly well done, and I especially enjoyed the build up to the suspense that took place later in the story. The author did a great job with a topic that affects so many victims, silent and otherwise. The mafia elements worked perfectly with the romance, adding to the depth and intensity of Joe and Liliana's story. I loved reconnecting with the Marcello family again, as well as the Rossi/DeLuca family. Bethany-Kris has created such an amazing fictional world with these characters and their stories, spanning from New York to Chicago to Toronto, and it's really great catching up with all of the characters I love from the other books. Captivated is by far one of my top reads so far this year, and I cannot wait for more of these fantastic mafia stories from Bethany-Kris.

[Tzelina · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Tesoro stars!! Such a sweet story !! A great combination of Marcello's and Chicago Outfit!! I really love those books of Bethany Kris!! Excellent read!!

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

He is her Shadow.
She is his Light.

Captivated by Bethany-Kris is a story of Liliana Marcello and Joe Rossi. Both grew up in the same kind of life, both know what to expect but being in so way alike they are so much different.

Liliana is a princess of The Marcello family. She loves dancing and ballet. She seems so fragile but under her facade she is much tougher than she seems. She has a backbone and she proved a lot of times that she is a strong personality. I loved it in her. She is not a china doll. She is so much more.

Joe is a Shadow. He is not seen and it's the most vital thing in his line of work. On the outside he seems cold and unemotional but in reality he is capable of such tender feeling one cannot even dream about.

They were connected under "work" circumstances but in the end it turned out to be more than work.

I loved this book. It was a pure pleasure to read it. Bethany managed to do it it again - to show that she is a real Mafia queen. This book is full of everything. I was smiling, I was crying, I was rooting for them and for me it's the one thing that matters. Their love story is hard and complicated but I loved every letter of it! Thank you for this ride and for a chance to read this masterpiece. A must read for everyone!

[Expresso · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you didn’t know, now you KNOW! Bethany-Kris is on FIRE!!! I can say with complete confidence this is probably one of the best, most phenomenal stories Bethany-Kris has written!

I could convey the obvious...flawless scenes and characters. I could convey the richness of the history of both families incorporated throughout the story. OR I can tell you about chapter 16!!! Have you ever read a story and you knew without a doubt something wasn’t kosher with a character? And then something happens and you’re like “I KNEW it!”????? Bethany-Kris not only stepped outside the box with Captivated, she stepped on it, kicked it, destroyed it, and put it back together to serve as a table for lunch! She absolutely NAILED it, knocked it out of the park, and DESTROYED me! I am soooo ecstatic to experience this richer deeper side. I want more! I need more!

You want this book. Trust me!

Five stars!

[Michelle [Helen Geek] · Rating 5 out of 5]

March 2019 -- 5 Stars

[Izzie d · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joe and Liliana.
This is a perfect mix of the Marcello and Chicago War series as it's the next generation.
Joe is Damian Rossi 'Ghost' and Lily's son and Liliana, is Lucian Marcello and Jordyn's daughter.
I don't want to explain too much so as not to spoil it.
I have marked this as an insta love because as soon as they set eyes on each other they feel a pull but it takes time and work for them to sort things out to be together.
Their getting together is not simple due to 'business' and Joe is a very guarded private person and so is Liliana but due to different reasons to Joe.
The reader gets to see lots of sceñes with the Marcellos and also the Rossi's, which is a real treat.
The book is a little more gritty as the Gillian is really not very nice but there is nothing graphic.
No cheating, they are only for each other once they've met.
HEA.

💓💕💞

🔫🌹💐


ARC.

[Ana Laura Coronel Blanes · Rating 4 out of 5]

No tenía ninguna expectativa con este libro y me sorpendió para bien. Me encantó.

"—Cuando el Outfit quiere que alguien se vaya —aclaró Joe—, envían a la Sombra.
Porque se movía silenciosamente, como si no estuviera allí en absoluto. Porque se mezcló con la multitud, y nunca fue visto realmente. Porque en la oscuridad, y en las sombras, era el más peligroso."

Joe Rossi es la Sombra. Es a quien el Outfit llama para eliminar a alguien sin dejar rastro, al igual que hacia su padre Damian Rossi en Deathless & Divided ( The Chicago War 1 ). Sin embargo esta vez es contratado por la familia Marcello, de la Cosa Nostra en Nueva York. Le encomiendan matar a dos hombres importantes, pero a Joe no le gusta no saber el motivo y sobre todo si hay algo misterioso en ello. Por supuesto, termina encontrando la verdad.

Liliana Marcello es la hija de Lucian Marcello ( Filthy Marcellos 1 ). Ella es una bailarina de ballet que tiene un pasado que la atormenta. Me dolió leerla sufrir y tener que someterse a un hombre que solo la lastimaba. Pero ella fue fuerte. Y tiene a una muy buena terapeuta (Cara Rossi) para ayudarla a afrontar esa mala experiencia.

Entonces, si, está conectado el trabajo de Joe con Liliana. Además de que por un tiempo se le pide a Joe que cuide de Liliana.

"—Escucha —dijo su hermana después de una larga pausa—, si encuentro a un tipo que me mira como Joe te miraba la noche que se conocieron, entonces me consideraría afortunada. Los tipos que miran a las chicas de esa manera van a seguir volviendo, créeme."

Hay algo asombroso en la manera en la que ambos quedan cautivados por el otro desde el momento en que se ven por primera vez. Joe no puede apartar su mirada de ella y ella no puede esperar a verlo de nuevo. Esto es casi como un instalove.

Si hay algo que no me gustó fue que Liliana simplemente asumía cosas y no dejaba que Joe se explicara o hablara, como si esperara lo peor de él. Si bien explica que lo hace como mecanismo de defensa debido a una desagradable experiencia en el pasado con un hombre, todavía estaba esperando que dejara que Joe hablara.

Y también hay algo que no me convenció, que es cuando secuestran a Liliana y Joe no escucha absolutamente nada. Es decir, todo esta sucediendo a menos de dos metros de él y él seguía durmiendo. Completamente noqueado.

Disfrute volver a leer a los hermanos Marcellos con unos cuantos años encima. Realmente no me decepcionan. Incluso Lucian, quien no estaba entre mis favoritos se ganó mi cariño y respeto en este libro. Y es que es tan buen padre. Sinceramente pensé que sería el más difícil de tratar como padre, pero él simplemente se hace a un lado en las relaciones de sus hijos y les deja esa libertad a sus hijas que quizás muchas mujeres no tienen en su mundo. Y lo deja muy claro cuando Joe le habla sobre pedirle una cita a Liliana, no es a él a quien tiene que preguntarle porque es totalmente decisión de su hija aceptar o no.

"—Te amo más que a nada —le dijo.
—Siempre te amaré, Liliana. ¿Me dejarás mostrarte?
—¿Cuándo? —le preguntó.
Joe ni siquiera tuvo que pensarlo.
—Por siempre."

Aquí algunas cosas que me gustaron muchísimo:
>La dinámica de la familia Rossi. Amé la relación entre Joe y Cory, espero ver más de ella en el libro de Cory.
>Dante diciéndole a Damian que deberia estar orgulloso de su hijo, después de verlo en modo asesino, y Theo respondiendo que lo estaban.
>Lucian dándose cuenta desde el principio de la conexión que había entre Liliana y Joe.
>Giovanni Marcello. Es todo lo que voy a decir.
>Liliana siendo una bailarina de ballet que se toma en serio lo que hace, pero a la vez sabiendo que no iba a ser su vida entera y teniendo um plan para su futuro. Demostró que el ballet a veces no lo es todo, que puede ser algo pasajero y está bien.

No tuve suficiente de este par.