What do you think?
Rate this book
Captive #1.75
Innocenza rubata
Sono stata venduta come un oggetto il giorno del funerale di mio padre. Avevo creduto che la sua morte mi avrebbe resa libera, ma non avevo mai compreso realmente cosa significasse vedersi strappare via tutta la libertà. Fino a quel giorno, avevo vissuto in una fantasia da bambina.
Poi, mio fratello mi ha venduta e non ho più potuto permettermi il lusso di essere una bambina. Sono stata portata alla villa di Vicente Rodríguez, affinché lui mi tenga come il suo giocattolino. Quando sarò abbastanza grande, reclamerà la mia innocenza.
La mia unica tregua dalla mia realtà infernale risiede nella compagnia forzata di suo figlio, Adrián. Certe volte, penso che mi detesti. Sa essere freddo e crudele, i suoi ardenti occhi verdi mi guardano torvo. Ma più tempo rimango intrappolata in casa sua, più quegli sguardi diventano accesi, e non soltanto di odio. Fanno bruciare qualcosa anche dentro di me. La mia innocenza non è più mia da concedere, ma Adrián potrebbe essere il primo a reclamarla per sé.
Nota: Innocenza Rubata è il prequel di Bellezza Rapita.
Poi, mio fratello mi ha venduta e non ho più potuto permettermi il lusso di essere una bambina. Sono stata portata alla villa di Vicente Rodríguez, affinché lui mi tenga come il suo giocattolino. Quando sarò abbastanza grande, reclamerà la mia innocenza.
La mia unica tregua dalla mia realtà infernale risiede nella compagnia forzata di suo figlio, Adrián. Certe volte, penso che mi detesti. Sa essere freddo e crudele, i suoi ardenti occhi verdi mi guardano torvo. Ma più tempo rimango intrappolata in casa sua, più quegli sguardi diventano accesi, e non soltanto di odio. Fanno bruciare qualcosa anche dentro di me. La mia innocenza non è più mia da concedere, ma Adrián potrebbe essere il primo a reclamarla per sé.
Nota: Innocenza Rubata è il prequel di Bellezza Rapita.
58 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2020
749 people are currently reading
1145 people want to read
About the author
Julia Sykes
137 books2,012 followersJulia Sykes is a USA Today bestselling author of edgy, emotional romance. When she's not writing, she's usually reading.
Other than reading, her obsessions include iced coffee, unicorns, charcuterie, aged Manchego cheese (or any cheese, really), and fancy dresses.
An American expat, Julia now lives in her adopted, beloved home of York, England. Most days, you can find her wandering the cobbled streets and daydreaming about her next novel.
Other than reading, her obsessions include iced coffee, unicorns, charcuterie, aged Manchego cheese (or any cheese, really), and fancy dresses.
An American expat, Julia now lives in her adopted, beloved home of York, England. Most days, you can find her wandering the cobbled streets and daydreaming about her next novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
January 7, 2019
This is just a super quick prequel to this author's upcoming book STEALING BEAUTY. It is just a brief taste of how Adrián and Valentina meet and fall in love. It is a bit too short and underdeveloped for me to give it anything higher than a 3-star rating, but I can't wait to read their full-length book.
Want to read
April 10, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (1/7/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
I was sold like property on the day of my father’s funeral. I’d thought his death would set me free, but I’d never truly understood what it meant to have all my freedoms stripped away. Until that day, I’d been living in a child’s fantasy.
Then, my brother sells me, and I don’t have the luxury of being a child anymore. I’m taken to Vicente Rodríguez’s estate, to be kept as his plaything. When I’m old enough, he’ll claim my innocence.
My only reprieve from my hellish reality is in the strained companionship I share with his son, Adrián. Sometimes, I think he hates me. He can be cold and cruel, his burning green eyes glowering when he looks at me. But the longer I’m trapped in his home, the more heated those looks become, and not just with hatred. They make something burn within me, too. My innocence is no longer mine to give, but Adrián might be the first one to claim it for himself.
Blurb:
I was sold like property on the day of my father’s funeral. I’d thought his death would set me free, but I’d never truly understood what it meant to have all my freedoms stripped away. Until that day, I’d been living in a child’s fantasy.
Then, my brother sells me, and I don’t have the luxury of being a child anymore. I’m taken to Vicente Rodríguez’s estate, to be kept as his plaything. When I’m old enough, he’ll claim my innocence.
My only reprieve from my hellish reality is in the strained companionship I share with his son, Adrián. Sometimes, I think he hates me. He can be cold and cruel, his burning green eyes glowering when he looks at me. But the longer I’m trapped in his home, the more heated those looks become, and not just with hatred. They make something burn within me, too. My innocence is no longer mine to give, but Adrián might be the first one to claim it for himself.
May 20, 2020
3,5 stelline
Valentina viene strappata via dal rifugio sicuro della sua casa e portata in un mondo estraneo e violento. La crudeltà dell’uomo che l’ aveva appena sequestrata l’aveva dimostrato.
«È solo una bambina!», aveva obiettato la nonna.
Se lo era ripetuta anche lei più e più volte, con forza.
Si era vista togliere quella libertà che, fino ad allora, aveva dato per scontato.
Il suo destino era segnato e non lasciava presagire nulla di buono.
Fortunatamente farà amicizia con Adrian, di poco più grande di lei, che sarà una preziosa compagnia.
Novella breve, non violenta, che termina con un finale sospeso
Valentina viene strappata via dal rifugio sicuro della sua casa e portata in un mondo estraneo e violento. La crudeltà dell’uomo che l’ aveva appena sequestrata l’aveva dimostrato.
«È solo una bambina!», aveva obiettato la nonna.
Se lo era ripetuta anche lei più e più volte, con forza.
Si era vista togliere quella libertà che, fino ad allora, aveva dato per scontato.
Il suo destino era segnato e non lasciava presagire nulla di buono.
Fortunatamente farà amicizia con Adrian, di poco più grande di lei, che sarà una preziosa compagnia.
Novella breve, non violenta, che termina con un finale sospeso
January 9, 2019
Stolen Innocence is a prequel novella to Julia Sykes' full-length novel Stealing Beauty. I think it is a good one that sets the reader up for what to expect in the next book. My heart broke for Valentina when she was sold off like cattle, and separated from her family. In her new home she meets Adrián, who is the son of the man she was sold to. I don't know why he was so rude to her at first, I couldn't really see a reason for it. But I was happy when he got to know and developed feelings for her. He also wanted to protect her from the evil men in the house. My thoughts on Valentina are that she was a bit too naive and unknowing. I was really shocked when she didn't know what sex was while being a big fan of telenovelas. Didn't anyone think to give her some sex ed classes? Overall I think this prequel gave good background information on how the main characters met and how a relationship was developed between them. I am looking forward to Stealing Beauty.
April 20, 2019
This was the set up for Stolen Beauty. It takes place in Colombia and revolves around a 14 year old girl named Valentina. Her father has just died and as part of the drug cartel businesses, her older brother Christian sells her off to a powerful boss, Vincente and his #2, Hugo. She is immediately taken to live with them but is not touched yet as she has not yet formally become a woman. At his estate, she meets his son, Adrian. Slowly Adrian becomes her one saving grace and the two become inseparable. They pledge their love to each other and he says that he will figure out a way to get her out of their before she's defiled. Unfortunately, their hidden relationship is discovered with dire consequence and for both and immediate separation.
And that's basically it folks. Really just a set up for the novel. I can't say it went into depth enough to be engrossing. I felt horrible for Valentina and I hate, hate, hated Hugo and Vincente and the nature of buying a child of course was dark but that was about it.
Am now painstakingly reading through the novel wondering what on earth happened with Julia Sykes. I've read tons of her books and they usually click but that isn't happening so far.
Not a complete waste of time and definitely necessary reading to understand the novel from the get go. But nothing that makes you rush to one click.
And that's basically it folks. Really just a set up for the novel. I can't say it went into depth enough to be engrossing. I felt horrible for Valentina and I hate, hate, hated Hugo and Vincente and the nature of buying a child of course was dark but that was about it.
Am now painstakingly reading through the novel wondering what on earth happened with Julia Sykes. I've read tons of her books and they usually click but that isn't happening so far.
Not a complete waste of time and definitely necessary reading to understand the novel from the get go. But nothing that makes you rush to one click.
January 19, 2019
¨) ¸.•⭐'¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`
❤~🌟~❤4 SHATTERING STARS!❤~🌟~❤
"Valentina was my prey, and she didn’t have a hope of escaping capture."
This short, fast paced prequel by Julia Sykes is a heartwrenching and adrenaline pumping prelude to Valentina and Adrian’s full-length enemies to lovers dark romance, STEALING BEAUTY. My heart broke for all that poor innocent Valentina has been forced to endure after she was sold to a monster by her cruel half-brother, Cristian, to pay off a family debt.
But there is hope in the horizon when Valentina discovers a possible savior in Adrian, her owner's brash, brazenly sexy teenage son who scares her as much as he entices her. Adrian might have inherited a bit of his father's deviant and predatory nature but he becomes his precious "conejita's" most ferocious protector and could be her only escape from her nightmarish existence. But then devastation strikes which may tear these hopelessly love-smitten soulmates asunder forever....
This prequel definitely whets our appetites for more dark twisted passion and edge of your seat mayhem!
(¸.•´ (¸.•`
❤~🌟~❤4 SHATTERING STARS!❤~🌟~❤
"Valentina was my prey, and she didn’t have a hope of escaping capture."
This short, fast paced prequel by Julia Sykes is a heartwrenching and adrenaline pumping prelude to Valentina and Adrian’s full-length enemies to lovers dark romance, STEALING BEAUTY. My heart broke for all that poor innocent Valentina has been forced to endure after she was sold to a monster by her cruel half-brother, Cristian, to pay off a family debt.
But there is hope in the horizon when Valentina discovers a possible savior in Adrian, her owner's brash, brazenly sexy teenage son who scares her as much as he entices her. Adrian might have inherited a bit of his father's deviant and predatory nature but he becomes his precious "conejita's" most ferocious protector and could be her only escape from her nightmarish existence. But then devastation strikes which may tear these hopelessly love-smitten soulmates asunder forever....
This prequel definitely whets our appetites for more dark twisted passion and edge of your seat mayhem!
April 22, 2021
Review for Stolen Innocence – A Dark Romance - by Julia Sykes.
CONTAINS SPOILERS
14 yo Valentina attends her father’s funeral with her half-brother, Andres, and her grandmother (Abuela), and never sheds a tear. Antonio Moreno’s death leaves her eldest half-brother, Cristian, as head of his cocaine empire. During the service, a powerful friend of her father’s, Vicenti Rodreguez, and his right-hand-man, Hugo, leer at her, making her feel uncomfortable. That night, at midnight, Valentina’s woken by her grandmother urgently telling her to get dressed because Cristian is coming to see her. But he doesn’t arrive alone. He’s accompanied by Vicenti, and Hugo. Cristian hands Valentina over as payment for a debt his father incurred. She’s taken away and never sees her half-brother, Andres, or her grandmother, again.
Vicenti’s mistress, Mariana, dresses Valentina for breakfast – tries to make a 14 yo girl appear to be a woman with clothes, hair and makeup. Adrian, Vicenti’s son and heir, is a moody teenager, about 2 years older than Valentina. During her first year of captivity, Valentina is schooled with Adrian. On her 15th birthday, Adrian’s body begins to react to her. During a game of chasey into the woods that borders his father’s estate, Adrian catches her, pins her arms above her head on the ground, and kisses her.
“She’s not mine.”
He has to remind himself she was intended for his father. That night, Adrian visits Valentina’s room and tells her how to masturbate. The next morning, Valentina gets her fist period. Mariana explains that means she’s a woman now, and tells her all about sex. Valentina begins to understand why Vicenti took her as payment. Hugo enters her room intent on taking Valentina, but Adrian tackles him off of her.
“No one touches you. You’re mine.”
Adrian wants Valentina for himself. For a year, Adrian sneaks into her room and lays with her to keep her safe from Hugo, but does nothing other than kiss her, and ensures he’s back in his own room at dawn. At 16, Valentina tells Adrian she loves him. After he admits to loving her, he promises to get her away from the estate. When Valentina is late to breakfast, Mariana catches them in bed together. When she leaves to tell Vicenti, Adrian hastily returns to his own room.
Vicenti and Hugo barge into his room. A fight erupts and Hugo pummels him. Vicente informs Adrian he’s going to California, and if he tries to come back for Valentina, she dies. Thinking his son has taken what was his, Vicente tells Hugo she’s his, but he has to wait until they’re married before he has sex with her.
I was able to read this book in one sitting as this book is a prequel to Stealing Beauty, so there is no happy ending. I will read Stealing Beauty next. I’m a little surprised that this book is available through Amazon given the insinuations toward the end of the book of a 16 yo girl marrying a man with clear intentions of what he intends to do with her. I know in some countries, like my own, the age of consent is 16. However, I also know that female characters (and male characters for that matter) should be conveyed as being 18 or over in any publications.
And I do have a gripe. Throughout the book, there are a lot of instances where text is underlined with broken lines, that have at one stage perhaps been highlighted. I have come across this in many books I have read, and it annoys the absolute crap out of me.
Overall, the writing is good, and the story is pretty fast-paced. I do believe the author should have put some sort of a warning at the beginning of the book for those sensitive to child abuse as this story line could be a trigger for some. That said, I still think this book is a solid 4 star read.
CONTAINS SPOILERS
14 yo Valentina attends her father’s funeral with her half-brother, Andres, and her grandmother (Abuela), and never sheds a tear. Antonio Moreno’s death leaves her eldest half-brother, Cristian, as head of his cocaine empire. During the service, a powerful friend of her father’s, Vicenti Rodreguez, and his right-hand-man, Hugo, leer at her, making her feel uncomfortable. That night, at midnight, Valentina’s woken by her grandmother urgently telling her to get dressed because Cristian is coming to see her. But he doesn’t arrive alone. He’s accompanied by Vicenti, and Hugo. Cristian hands Valentina over as payment for a debt his father incurred. She’s taken away and never sees her half-brother, Andres, or her grandmother, again.
Vicenti’s mistress, Mariana, dresses Valentina for breakfast – tries to make a 14 yo girl appear to be a woman with clothes, hair and makeup. Adrian, Vicenti’s son and heir, is a moody teenager, about 2 years older than Valentina. During her first year of captivity, Valentina is schooled with Adrian. On her 15th birthday, Adrian’s body begins to react to her. During a game of chasey into the woods that borders his father’s estate, Adrian catches her, pins her arms above her head on the ground, and kisses her.
“She’s not mine.”
He has to remind himself she was intended for his father. That night, Adrian visits Valentina’s room and tells her how to masturbate. The next morning, Valentina gets her fist period. Mariana explains that means she’s a woman now, and tells her all about sex. Valentina begins to understand why Vicenti took her as payment. Hugo enters her room intent on taking Valentina, but Adrian tackles him off of her.
“No one touches you. You’re mine.”
Adrian wants Valentina for himself. For a year, Adrian sneaks into her room and lays with her to keep her safe from Hugo, but does nothing other than kiss her, and ensures he’s back in his own room at dawn. At 16, Valentina tells Adrian she loves him. After he admits to loving her, he promises to get her away from the estate. When Valentina is late to breakfast, Mariana catches them in bed together. When she leaves to tell Vicenti, Adrian hastily returns to his own room.
Vicenti and Hugo barge into his room. A fight erupts and Hugo pummels him. Vicente informs Adrian he’s going to California, and if he tries to come back for Valentina, she dies. Thinking his son has taken what was his, Vicente tells Hugo she’s his, but he has to wait until they’re married before he has sex with her.
I was able to read this book in one sitting as this book is a prequel to Stealing Beauty, so there is no happy ending. I will read Stealing Beauty next. I’m a little surprised that this book is available through Amazon given the insinuations toward the end of the book of a 16 yo girl marrying a man with clear intentions of what he intends to do with her. I know in some countries, like my own, the age of consent is 16. However, I also know that female characters (and male characters for that matter) should be conveyed as being 18 or over in any publications.
And I do have a gripe. Throughout the book, there are a lot of instances where text is underlined with broken lines, that have at one stage perhaps been highlighted. I have come across this in many books I have read, and it annoys the absolute crap out of me.
Overall, the writing is good, and the story is pretty fast-paced. I do believe the author should have put some sort of a warning at the beginning of the book for those sensitive to child abuse as this story line could be a trigger for some. That said, I still think this book is a solid 4 star read.
January 4, 2019
What a high impact way to introduce a story.
It has left me wanting to jump into the rest of their story right this very second.
It is full to the brim of feelings and angst. Its heartwarming and heartbreaking all within a very few pages, a real roller coaster.
Honestly, a top notch introduction to what i believe will be one hell of an emotional read.
It has left me wanting to jump into the rest of their story right this very second.
It is full to the brim of feelings and angst. Its heartwarming and heartbreaking all within a very few pages, a real roller coaster.
Honestly, a top notch introduction to what i believe will be one hell of an emotional read.
January 7, 2019
*There are no spoilers for this book in this review. I only state what we know from prior books in relation to this story.*
*This book can be read as a standalone or as part of the series after, "Claiming My Sweet Captive."*
This short book is the fast-paced prequel to Valentina's bigger story, "Stealing Beauty." We see the sad beginning of how she ends up where we know she is going to end up.
This introduction to Valentina's sad tale is hot and heavy and the young romance does give us a glimmer of hope for a moment... but we know from prior books in the series that it isn't going to an easy start for this heroine.
*This book can be read as a standalone or as part of the series after, "Claiming My Sweet Captive."*
This short book is the fast-paced prequel to Valentina's bigger story, "Stealing Beauty." We see the sad beginning of how she ends up where we know she is going to end up.
This introduction to Valentina's sad tale is hot and heavy and the young romance does give us a glimmer of hope for a moment... but we know from prior books in the series that it isn't going to an easy start for this heroine.
January 7, 2019
Valentina is only fourteen years old, still sleeping with her plush doll and unaware of what men and women do. Being sold by her brother in order to cancel out their dead father's debts is the most horrible thing he could ever do to her.
She is then held at a house where she is being leered at while they wait for her to grow up more before she is taken. What develops here is a story of a young girl on the edge of womanhood as she tries to survive.
This is not a book for those younger than 18 years!
I am voluntarily reviewing this book. I received a copy from the author.
She is then held at a house where she is being leered at while they wait for her to grow up more before she is taken. What develops here is a story of a young girl on the edge of womanhood as she tries to survive.
This is not a book for those younger than 18 years!
I am voluntarily reviewing this book. I received a copy from the author.
July 23, 2020
Finito, corro a leggere il seguito
January 23, 2019
This is an introduction to Valentina and Adrian and is no way this going to be a safe read.
Valentina is sold on the day of her father’s funeral by her cruel and unfeeling older brother Christian to settle her father’s debts. Being only fourteen she is to be kept pure until her owner claims her as a woman. Scared and alone in a strange house she finds comfort in Adrian the son of the man who owns her, although she fears him and loves him in equal measure when she is near him that’s when she feels safe.
Adrian resents Valentina but her beauty shakes him to the core and the more he tries to stay away from her the more he can’t resist her. Adrian loves the fear he evokes in her as much as the devotion she has for him. But they both know that this cannot last and before he can send her away the unthinkable happens and they are caught. Leaving them both living a nightmare.
This for a short interlude was a real rollercoaster of emotions to travel and I will be reading the final journey of these two soulmates into whatever darkness awaits them in Stealing Beauty.
Valentina is sold on the day of her father’s funeral by her cruel and unfeeling older brother Christian to settle her father’s debts. Being only fourteen she is to be kept pure until her owner claims her as a woman. Scared and alone in a strange house she finds comfort in Adrian the son of the man who owns her, although she fears him and loves him in equal measure when she is near him that’s when she feels safe.
Adrian resents Valentina but her beauty shakes him to the core and the more he tries to stay away from her the more he can’t resist her. Adrian loves the fear he evokes in her as much as the devotion she has for him. But they both know that this cannot last and before he can send her away the unthinkable happens and they are caught. Leaving them both living a nightmare.
This for a short interlude was a real rollercoaster of emotions to travel and I will be reading the final journey of these two soulmates into whatever darkness awaits them in Stealing Beauty.
November 25, 2023
I read the prior 2 books a few years ago and was interested to hear what happened to his sister. This is her story. I do feel like this didn’t need to be broken up, I was a bit confused as to the fade to black scenes. So did she or didn’t she with him? I am so confused bc the epilogue mentions he took her innocence but it’s implied he didn’t bc she was never his. The father doesn’t seem like the type to wait, and why would he allow his young teenage son to live next to her. Idk the circumstances and the fact no one is ever around seemed weird.
But interesting story, I do think it could have been told in one book though
Reading a few other reviews. They hit the nail on the head “underdeveloped “ is the best word to describe it. I’m assuming this was written after stealing beauty? Again, this could’ve been told in the same book or as a better duet. Idk, things seemed to have taken such a drastic change like we spent the first part of the book her being scared, but also confused about life, her hormones and puberty. He hated her, because he loved her, but it took such a quick turn from them both being confused about their feelings for each other to suddenly being in love. Also his decision suddenly to get her out and save her . Still confused if they did or didn’t or did it just stop at kissing.
But interesting story, I do think it could have been told in one book though
Reading a few other reviews. They hit the nail on the head “underdeveloped “ is the best word to describe it. I’m assuming this was written after stealing beauty? Again, this could’ve been told in the same book or as a better duet. Idk, things seemed to have taken such a drastic change like we spent the first part of the book her being scared, but also confused about life, her hormones and puberty. He hated her, because he loved her, but it took such a quick turn from them both being confused about their feelings for each other to suddenly being in love. Also his decision suddenly to get her out and save her . Still confused if they did or didn’t or did it just stop at kissing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2019
Oh, how the darkness seeps until it is all encompassing.
14 year old Valentina's very brief freedom after the death of her drug lord father, is cruelly ended when her older half brother Christian sells her off to another drug lord~~ Vincente to settle a debt. Despite the attempts of her other half brother Andres & her grandmother she is taken away to Vincente's estate to be his next mistress when she's old enough. And homesick, grieving, lonely & terrified Valentina has no one to trust at Vincente's.
Even Adrian, Vincente's son & heir is cruel & mocking, both dismissive & angry at the arrival of the young girl.
But even though Adrian at the tender age of 17 begins against his will & better judgement to be attacted to & interested by Valentina, he has already developed darker sexual desires & Valentina is completely innocent & untouched.
And she belongs to his father.
This is an excellent foundation for the fleshed out story of Adrian & Valentina to come in 'Stealing Beauty'. This intro was excellent at foreshadowing what is to come, how cruelty pervades Valentina's world, how hope is smashed & raised again & smashed again. The darkness has seeped until it covers Valentina completely, & the reader is left to anxiously hope that she will see a time of light again & hope Adrian is the one to save her.
I cannot wait to read 'Stealing Beauty' after 'Stolen Innocence'.
14 year old Valentina's very brief freedom after the death of her drug lord father, is cruelly ended when her older half brother Christian sells her off to another drug lord~~ Vincente to settle a debt. Despite the attempts of her other half brother Andres & her grandmother she is taken away to Vincente's estate to be his next mistress when she's old enough. And homesick, grieving, lonely & terrified Valentina has no one to trust at Vincente's.
Even Adrian, Vincente's son & heir is cruel & mocking, both dismissive & angry at the arrival of the young girl.
But even though Adrian at the tender age of 17 begins against his will & better judgement to be attacted to & interested by Valentina, he has already developed darker sexual desires & Valentina is completely innocent & untouched.
And she belongs to his father.
This is an excellent foundation for the fleshed out story of Adrian & Valentina to come in 'Stealing Beauty'. This intro was excellent at foreshadowing what is to come, how cruelty pervades Valentina's world, how hope is smashed & raised again & smashed again. The darkness has seeped until it covers Valentina completely, & the reader is left to anxiously hope that she will see a time of light again & hope Adrian is the one to save her.
I cannot wait to read 'Stealing Beauty' after 'Stolen Innocence'.
January 8, 2019
Stolen Innocence: A Dark Romance by Julia Sykes. Valentina is at her father's funeral. She knows her father was a drug dealer and her life has been hard. Now he is dead and she is hoping her life will get better. How wrong she was! After the funeral her older brother has just sold her to one of her father's associate. Vincente has been leering at her in a way a grown man shouldn't. She is only 14 years old. Scared and alone she finds herself living at Vicente's mansion. Adrian is his son. He is slated to takeover for his father. This new girl is a pain in his butt. Eventually their relationship changes. For Valentina Adrian is the only thing from her wanting to kill herself. This is a prequel to Stolen Beauty. This story was good and the ending was one of those endings that have you clutching the pearls while your head explodes. I am so glad I don't have to wait long for the next book. 5 stars.
January 25, 2019
This is the prequel to Stolen Beauty by Julia Sykes. Julia is a very talented author and I’ve enjoyed every book I’ve read by her. Valentina was 14 years old when her father, Antonio Moreno died. She thought his death meant she was finally free from his terror and abuse. She lived on her father’s property in a small house with her Abuela and half brother Andres. Now that Antonio was dead her older half brother Cristian who was only 20 years old would inherit everything including their father’s cocaine empire. Cristian was just as cruel as her father and that was never more clear than the night of her father’s funeral. Abuela woke her up at midnight and told her to get dressed because Cristian was coming to see her. When Cristian arrives he’s not alone he has Vincente Rodriguez and Hugo, his right hand man with him. Vincente comments how young Valentina is and Cristian says so what because she looks like a woman. Antonio owed Vincente quite a lot of money and he’s offered to forgive the debt in exchange for something else. When Abuela and Andres realize exactly what Vincente wants they try to protect Valentina but they’re no match for Cristian. Valentina is plucked from the only home she’s ever known and taken to Vincente’s home where she’ll be groomed for him until she’s of age. Vincente has a son named Adrian who is a few years older than Valentina. Adrian is told Valentina will be joining him in his studies and this angers him. Adrian doesn’t wanna be her babysitter and he doesn’t like how he feels when she’s around.
January 17, 2019
Stolen Innocence is the beginning of a story between two people that have broken soles at such young ages already. Stolen Innocence shows us how Valentina and Adrian become the adults they are. We have 14-year-old Valentina that is taken from her home for her dead father's debt. Her brother sells her to a horrible man that will take her to bed when she is older.
While she is at Vincente's home, she will meet his son and heir Adrian. Needless to say, Adrian wants nothing to do with her either. But over time will those feelings change? Or will she forever be distant for Vincente's bed?
January 8, 2019
Stolen Innocence is the prequel to Stealing Beauty. If the prequel's purpose was to hook me to the story and make me crave the next pages, it was extremely successful. A dark, raw, twisted, dirty and angsty introduction that left me wanting so much more. I can't wait to read more about Valentina and Adrián!
Starting on the funeral day of Valentina's father. She is a part of the underworld family but she managed to keep her innocence with help of her brother and abuela. But she is stolen by Vincente from another more powerful family and thrust into world of confusion, pain and chaos. She meets the aloof and brooding son, Adrián and we are taken to another world. Since it is a short introduction, I can't comment on story or characters completely. But I love the beginning and I am intrigued. I can see the story will have twists and turns with mindgames. And I enjoy them so much! 4 starts and waiting for the next part eagerly!
Starting on the funeral day of Valentina's father. She is a part of the underworld family but she managed to keep her innocence with help of her brother and abuela. But she is stolen by Vincente from another more powerful family and thrust into world of confusion, pain and chaos. She meets the aloof and brooding son, Adrián and we are taken to another world. Since it is a short introduction, I can't comment on story or characters completely. But I love the beginning and I am intrigued. I can see the story will have twists and turns with mindgames. And I enjoy them so much! 4 starts and waiting for the next part eagerly!
June 24, 2020
Maria Antonietta - per RFS
.
Buongiorno fenici, vi presento Innocenza rubata, il prequel di Bellezza rapita di Julia Sykes, un mafia romance di pochi capitoli le cui premesse sono l’introduzione a un romanzo di sicuro successo che a me è piaciuto molto.
Valentina è una bambina di soli quattordici anni quando, subito dopo la morte del padre, viene venduta a Vicente Rodríguez.
Cristian, il fratellastro di Valentina, non si fa scrupoli e, per pagare dei debiti lasciati dal padre prima di morire, decide di barattare la vita della sorellastra.
Quando Valentina viene portata di peso a casa di Vicente, comincia per lei una nuova vita.
Per fortuna il vecchio mafioso decide di aspettare che diventi una donna prima di metterle le mani addosso, ma questo non la esime dagli sguardi sgraditi di Hugo, il braccio destro di Vicente, un uomo disgustoso che tenta addirittura di violentarla pur consapevole che la ragazza è pura ed è destinata al suo capo.
Adrián è l’unico figlio ed erede di Vicente, un ragazzo poco più grande di Valentina che si ritrova a vivere a stretto contatto con la ragazza. Inizialmente non capisce il ruolo di questa estranea che si trova un bel giorno nella stanza adiacente la sua. Quando vede i suoi spazi privati invasi dalla presenza costante di lei ne è irritato ma c’è qualcosa che lo incuriosisce e, con il passare del tempo, il legame tra loro diventa sempre più forte. Adrián si ritrova a essere attratto sessualmente da Valentina, ma la rispetta e non si spingerà mai oltre un bacio. Il ragazzo è molto solo e soffre perché il padre non gli ha mai dedicato del tempo, anzi l’impressione è che sia addirittura infastidito da questo figlio.
Il rapporto con Valentina così diventa sempre più importante e si ritrovano addirittura a dormire insieme la notte.
Il conforto di Adrían è importante per Valentina che sente tanto la mancanza del fratello minore Andrés e della nonna, gli unici familiari che le hanno voluto bene e a cui è stata strappata.
La paura di essere data a Vicente man mano scompare anche perché Adrían dopo averla salvata dall’aggressione di Hugo gli promette di difenderla e di proteggerla sempre. Le giornate passate a studiare con gli insegnanti di Adrían e le passeggiate rilassanti diventano una routine.
Mariana è colei che si prende cura di Valentina, una donna molto bella ma taciturna e fedele a Vicente, il cui ruolo all’interno della famiglia è ambiguo ma che Valentina percepisce essere come quello di un’amante.
Ma questa non è una favola e Adrían è solo un ragazzo. Valentina è un fiore appena sbocciato di una bellezza acerba e peccaminosa. Cosa succederà alla piccola Valentina il giorno in cui scopriranno che il nettare proibito è pronto per essere divorato?
Non sto nella pelle, il finale è da cardiopalma, la lettura è coinvolgente e scorrevole.
La trama mi ha colpita perché questa breve storia d’amore così pura è strutturata in un contesto anomalo e per niente romantico. Una storia nella storia, una bolla creata da due anime che si sono ritrovate per caso a darsi conforto e amore. Valentina e Adrían non possono essere divisi, sono fatti per stare insieme, cosa succederà in Bellezza rapita? Non sto nella pelle!
Vi consiglio di leggerlo!
.
Buongiorno fenici, vi presento Innocenza rubata, il prequel di Bellezza rapita di Julia Sykes, un mafia romance di pochi capitoli le cui premesse sono l’introduzione a un romanzo di sicuro successo che a me è piaciuto molto.
Valentina è una bambina di soli quattordici anni quando, subito dopo la morte del padre, viene venduta a Vicente Rodríguez.
Cristian, il fratellastro di Valentina, non si fa scrupoli e, per pagare dei debiti lasciati dal padre prima di morire, decide di barattare la vita della sorellastra.
Quando Valentina viene portata di peso a casa di Vicente, comincia per lei una nuova vita.
Per fortuna il vecchio mafioso decide di aspettare che diventi una donna prima di metterle le mani addosso, ma questo non la esime dagli sguardi sgraditi di Hugo, il braccio destro di Vicente, un uomo disgustoso che tenta addirittura di violentarla pur consapevole che la ragazza è pura ed è destinata al suo capo.
Adrián è l’unico figlio ed erede di Vicente, un ragazzo poco più grande di Valentina che si ritrova a vivere a stretto contatto con la ragazza. Inizialmente non capisce il ruolo di questa estranea che si trova un bel giorno nella stanza adiacente la sua. Quando vede i suoi spazi privati invasi dalla presenza costante di lei ne è irritato ma c’è qualcosa che lo incuriosisce e, con il passare del tempo, il legame tra loro diventa sempre più forte. Adrián si ritrova a essere attratto sessualmente da Valentina, ma la rispetta e non si spingerà mai oltre un bacio. Il ragazzo è molto solo e soffre perché il padre non gli ha mai dedicato del tempo, anzi l’impressione è che sia addirittura infastidito da questo figlio.
Il rapporto con Valentina così diventa sempre più importante e si ritrovano addirittura a dormire insieme la notte.
Il conforto di Adrían è importante per Valentina che sente tanto la mancanza del fratello minore Andrés e della nonna, gli unici familiari che le hanno voluto bene e a cui è stata strappata.
La paura di essere data a Vicente man mano scompare anche perché Adrían dopo averla salvata dall’aggressione di Hugo gli promette di difenderla e di proteggerla sempre. Le giornate passate a studiare con gli insegnanti di Adrían e le passeggiate rilassanti diventano una routine.
Mariana è colei che si prende cura di Valentina, una donna molto bella ma taciturna e fedele a Vicente, il cui ruolo all’interno della famiglia è ambiguo ma che Valentina percepisce essere come quello di un’amante.
Ma questa non è una favola e Adrían è solo un ragazzo. Valentina è un fiore appena sbocciato di una bellezza acerba e peccaminosa. Cosa succederà alla piccola Valentina il giorno in cui scopriranno che il nettare proibito è pronto per essere divorato?
Non sto nella pelle, il finale è da cardiopalma, la lettura è coinvolgente e scorrevole.
La trama mi ha colpita perché questa breve storia d’amore così pura è strutturata in un contesto anomalo e per niente romantico. Una storia nella storia, una bolla creata da due anime che si sono ritrovate per caso a darsi conforto e amore. Valentina e Adrían non possono essere divisi, sono fatti per stare insieme, cosa succederà in Bellezza rapita? Non sto nella pelle!
Vi consiglio di leggerlo!
Want to read
January 7, 2019#Erotica #freebie #free #DarkRomance
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2SDCwRm
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2CV9gAc
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2VChUe5
Check out our archive: https://goo.gl/WaJD6j
Subscribe to our newsletter: https://goo.gl/SrUf3e
Or join our group: https://goo.gl/RpzyFd
Submit for FREE: https://goo.gl/MqqJv3
List your permafreebies: https://goo.gl/forms/rwaGEU3xXgif64852
changes may occur throughout the day
Merged review:
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2SDCwRm
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2CV9gAc
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2VChUe5
Check out our archive: https://goo.gl/WaJD6j
Subscribe to our newsletter: https://goo.gl/SrUf3e
Or join our group: https://goo.gl/RpzyFd
Submit for FREE: https://goo.gl/MqqJv3
List your permafreebies: https://goo.gl/forms/rwaGEU3xXgif64852
changes may occur throughout the day
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2SDCwRm
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2CV9gAc
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2VChUe5
Check out our archive: https://goo.gl/WaJD6j
Subscribe to our newsletter: https://goo.gl/SrUf3e
Or join our group: https://goo.gl/RpzyFd
Submit for FREE: https://goo.gl/MqqJv3
List your permafreebies: https://goo.gl/forms/rwaGEU3xXgif64852
changes may occur throughout the day
Merged review:
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2SDCwRm
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2CV9gAc
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2VChUe5
Check out our archive: https://goo.gl/WaJD6j
Subscribe to our newsletter: https://goo.gl/SrUf3e
Or join our group: https://goo.gl/RpzyFd
Submit for FREE: https://goo.gl/MqqJv3
List your permafreebies: https://goo.gl/forms/rwaGEU3xXgif64852
changes may occur throughout the day
January 9, 2021
Un livre très court qui retrace la condition de la femme en Colombie et comment elle était traité comme héritage que les hommes se transmettent de génération en génération.
May 30, 2020
RECENSIONE DI CINZIA
VOTO:4,5
Valentina Moreno è convinta che, dopo la morte di suo padre, la sua vita torni a respirare.
Ha solo quattordici anni, non ha mai avuto una madre né una guida, oltre alla nonna materna e al fratellastro Andrès.
Cristian, il suo fratello più grande, è della stessa pasta del padre: freddo, crudele e un manipolatore.
Con la morte del padre, tutto l'impero della droga va per diritto nelle sue mani, ed è proprio in quel momento che la vita di Valentina finisce.
Per coprire gli ingenti debiti che il padre ha lasciato, infatti, Cristian decide di cedere come pagamento la sua stessa sorella e, nonostante non sia altro che una bambina, non si fa nessun tipo di remora nello sfruttarla a suo vantaggio.
Vicente Rodríguez la tiene rinchiusa nella sua fastosa villa, nell'attesa che cresca, diventi una donna a tutti gli effetti, e possa fare di lei ciò che vuole.
È stata strappata alla sua famiglia con il solo scopo di farla diventare un giocattolo nelle mani di quell'uomo senza scrupoli, un'incubatrice per i suoi figli e un pezzo di carne da sfruttare per i suoi scopi malati.
Vicente ha un figlio, Adrìan, di soli due anni più grande di Valentina.
Come primo erede dei Rodrìguez, è destinato a diventare il successore di quell'impero malavitoso e, con quello scopo, viene cresciuto nelle imposizioni e nella violenza, in modo da fargli capire com'è fatto il mondo.
Quando Valentina entra di prepotenza in quella casa, l'istinto di Adriàn è quello di provare odio verso quell'intrusa.
Sa perché è lì, e sa che quella ragazza è destinata a suo padre; ma più passa il tempo e più sente verso di lei un’attrazione quasi viscerale.
A poco a poco i due ragazzi diventano indivisibili e, nonostante Adriàn non l'abbia mai toccata, sa che Valentina è sua fin dentro l'anima.
I sentimenti dei ragazzi crescono con loro, ma sono sempre molto attenti a far sì che nessuno della casa, tanto meno Vicente, li scoprano; basta però un piccolo errore per far implodere il loro sogno impossibile.
Adriàn, ormai maggiorenne, viene allontanato dal suo paese e per Valentina… non c'è più spazio per i sogni, e la dura realtà torna di prepotenza a far parte della sua esistenza.
Le loro promesse vengono infrante e l'odio e il risentimento surclassano presto qualsiasi altro sentimento.
Abbiamo sentito parlare di questa fantomatica sorella nel primo capitolo di questa serie.
Se vi ricordate, Andrès ha subito le peggiori torture nel tentativo di proteggere quella ragazzina a cui era affezionato, e oggi abbiamo un accenno a ciò che le è accaduto.
In questa novella scalfiamo appena la superficie.
Scopriremo come Valentina troverà conforto in Adriàn, quel ragazzo che tanto la spaventa e allo stesso tempo la attira in una rete di consapevolezza; assisteremo al suo realizzarsi femmina e capire cosa voglia dire amare veramente qualcuno.
Passeranno anni prima che Adriàn e Valentina possano rivedersi.
Non saranno più adolescenti innamorati, ma adulti pronti a distruggersi.
E io non vedo l'ora di leggere il libro che segue questa novella :D
Grande Julia Sykes.
In sole 60 pagine ha nutrito e fomentato la mia voglia di SAPERE.
https://bit.ly/2Twik6A
VOTO:4,5
Valentina Moreno è convinta che, dopo la morte di suo padre, la sua vita torni a respirare.
Ha solo quattordici anni, non ha mai avuto una madre né una guida, oltre alla nonna materna e al fratellastro Andrès.
Cristian, il suo fratello più grande, è della stessa pasta del padre: freddo, crudele e un manipolatore.
Con la morte del padre, tutto l'impero della droga va per diritto nelle sue mani, ed è proprio in quel momento che la vita di Valentina finisce.
Per coprire gli ingenti debiti che il padre ha lasciato, infatti, Cristian decide di cedere come pagamento la sua stessa sorella e, nonostante non sia altro che una bambina, non si fa nessun tipo di remora nello sfruttarla a suo vantaggio.
Vicente Rodríguez la tiene rinchiusa nella sua fastosa villa, nell'attesa che cresca, diventi una donna a tutti gli effetti, e possa fare di lei ciò che vuole.
È stata strappata alla sua famiglia con il solo scopo di farla diventare un giocattolo nelle mani di quell'uomo senza scrupoli, un'incubatrice per i suoi figli e un pezzo di carne da sfruttare per i suoi scopi malati.
Vicente ha un figlio, Adrìan, di soli due anni più grande di Valentina.
Come primo erede dei Rodrìguez, è destinato a diventare il successore di quell'impero malavitoso e, con quello scopo, viene cresciuto nelle imposizioni e nella violenza, in modo da fargli capire com'è fatto il mondo.
Quando Valentina entra di prepotenza in quella casa, l'istinto di Adriàn è quello di provare odio verso quell'intrusa.
Sa perché è lì, e sa che quella ragazza è destinata a suo padre; ma più passa il tempo e più sente verso di lei un’attrazione quasi viscerale.
A poco a poco i due ragazzi diventano indivisibili e, nonostante Adriàn non l'abbia mai toccata, sa che Valentina è sua fin dentro l'anima.
I sentimenti dei ragazzi crescono con loro, ma sono sempre molto attenti a far sì che nessuno della casa, tanto meno Vicente, li scoprano; basta però un piccolo errore per far implodere il loro sogno impossibile.
Adriàn, ormai maggiorenne, viene allontanato dal suo paese e per Valentina… non c'è più spazio per i sogni, e la dura realtà torna di prepotenza a far parte della sua esistenza.
Le loro promesse vengono infrante e l'odio e il risentimento surclassano presto qualsiasi altro sentimento.
Abbiamo sentito parlare di questa fantomatica sorella nel primo capitolo di questa serie.
Se vi ricordate, Andrès ha subito le peggiori torture nel tentativo di proteggere quella ragazzina a cui era affezionato, e oggi abbiamo un accenno a ciò che le è accaduto.
In questa novella scalfiamo appena la superficie.
Scopriremo come Valentina troverà conforto in Adriàn, quel ragazzo che tanto la spaventa e allo stesso tempo la attira in una rete di consapevolezza; assisteremo al suo realizzarsi femmina e capire cosa voglia dire amare veramente qualcuno.
Passeranno anni prima che Adriàn e Valentina possano rivedersi.
Non saranno più adolescenti innamorati, ma adulti pronti a distruggersi.
E io non vedo l'ora di leggere il libro che segue questa novella :D
Grande Julia Sykes.
In sole 60 pagine ha nutrito e fomentato la mia voglia di SAPERE.
https://bit.ly/2Twik6A
March 17, 2020
includes (lots of) critique
𝗮𝗺 𝗶 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗽𝗮𝗱 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?!
was what i thought when i started this book. i found some "wattpad-smuts" in this. I compared it to some wattpad smuts i read - how the characters thought. It was almoste exactly 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗺𝗲! I did expect that from a book with the description of getting sold. But it blew my minde that it had such bad parts in there!
don't forget that the "her" is the main character - who is a 𝟭𝟱 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹 the person talking is a 𝟭𝟳 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗯𝗼𝘆.
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗲́ 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀?
Well to be cruel; it is cliché but it also isn't.
if you'd ask me to pick a book between 𝗧𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗻𝗲
i would pick this one
This is for 100% sure 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗮 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝟱𝟬𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗲𝘀
That moment that the writer forgets that she's 14 and he's 16. Some 'seksual' parts are so funny! How he keeps her hands above her head, and how he says that he soulnd't be doing this because she doesn't 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗵𝗶𝗺.
I don't care when this book is writen and in what world/state/country it plays of. But she's a human, humans don't belong to anyone! Only to themselves.
𝗔𝗺 𝗶 𝗴𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝘁𝘄𝗼?
yes
Stealing Beauty
𝗮𝗺 𝗶 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗽𝗮𝗱 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?!
was what i thought when i started this book. i found some "wattpad-smuts" in this. I compared it to some wattpad smuts i read - how the characters thought. It was almoste exactly 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗺𝗲! I did expect that from a book with the description of getting sold. But it blew my minde that it had such bad parts in there!
Quote: "The temptation the f'ck her would overwhelm me if i did"
don't forget that the "her" is the main character - who is a 𝟭𝟱 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹 the person talking is a 𝟭𝟳 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗯𝗼𝘆.
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗲́ 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀?
Well to be cruel; it is cliché but it also isn't.
if you'd ask me to pick a book between 𝗧𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗻𝗲
i would pick this one
This is for 100% sure 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗮 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝟱𝟬𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗲𝘀
Quote: " "you're mine." and from that moment on, i belonged to adrián.
That moment that the writer forgets that she's 14 and he's 16. Some 'seksual' parts are so funny! How he keeps her hands above her head, and how he says that he soulnd't be doing this because she doesn't 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗵𝗶𝗺.
I don't care when this book is writen and in what world/state/country it plays of. But she's a human, humans don't belong to anyone! Only to themselves.
𝗔𝗺 𝗶 𝗴𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝘁𝘄𝗼?
yes
Stealing Beauty
May 1, 2019
This is the prequel to Julia Sykes' newest series "Stolen" and once again she captures what a great story is all about.
After her fathers death Valentina is sold to a drug lord to even a debt and is instantly thrown into her own private hell. Young and innocent she does not grasp the seriousness of her situation at first, until she is finally made aware of by her capture. Adrian is the heir to a drug empire and even though he is not to keen about Valentina at first he quickly finds himself drawn to her. Their relationship stays under the radar until they are finally discovered and Adrian is sent to America to spare Valentinas life. Years go by and suddenly Adrian emerges like a ghost from the past, a man on a mission to finally claim the only woman he ever loved.
This prequel is a quick read but does not take away from what lies ahead in future books. It gives you a first look into who Valentina and Adrian are and the struggles they face. This book is s great intro to "Stealing Beauty", book 1 in Julia's newest series "Stolen".
After her fathers death Valentina is sold to a drug lord to even a debt and is instantly thrown into her own private hell. Young and innocent she does not grasp the seriousness of her situation at first, until she is finally made aware of by her capture. Adrian is the heir to a drug empire and even though he is not to keen about Valentina at first he quickly finds himself drawn to her. Their relationship stays under the radar until they are finally discovered and Adrian is sent to America to spare Valentinas life. Years go by and suddenly Adrian emerges like a ghost from the past, a man on a mission to finally claim the only woman he ever loved.
This prequel is a quick read but does not take away from what lies ahead in future books. It gives you a first look into who Valentina and Adrian are and the struggles they face. This book is s great intro to "Stealing Beauty", book 1 in Julia's newest series "Stolen".
January 9, 2019
I love this author as she knows how to really stoke a fire to have readers salivating at the mouth awaiting the release of the full-length work, Stealing Beauty, coming soon. Here is the introduction to Valentina’s life that is thrown into upheaval at the death of her father by the hands of her “brother.” Adrian is the son of the Vicente, the man to whom Valentina was given. The longer Adrian is around Valentina, the more he desires her. The reader can feel the burning heat between them pulsing through the pages due to the vivid descriptions. Although it is a short, quick read, there are so many elements that draw the reader while giving glimpses of the complete storyline. Well written and intense with a cliffhanger ending, you will be counting down the days until you can find out what happens! I know I am.
I volunteered to read an advance copy and purchased it as well.
I volunteered to read an advance copy and purchased it as well.
January 8, 2019
Holy mother of all dark, dirty, delicious prequels to what is sure to be one of best gritty, forbidden, young love stories ever.
This! This is exactly the fix I needed, Julia! You have really set the bar high with this exceptional start. I am so excited because I know you excel in creating these intense, complex and utterly twisty yet delectable stories that will have me utterly consumed until the very last page. Woot woot - I can't wait for Stolen Beauty!
If you haven't read this author before, start here! You will love every perfect word of this magnificent story. Honestly I am confident this is going to be her best work yet. Complex characters, delicious angst, gritty story and perfectly written and paced. Love, love, love!
This! This is exactly the fix I needed, Julia! You have really set the bar high with this exceptional start. I am so excited because I know you excel in creating these intense, complex and utterly twisty yet delectable stories that will have me utterly consumed until the very last page. Woot woot - I can't wait for Stolen Beauty!
If you haven't read this author before, start here! You will love every perfect word of this magnificent story. Honestly I am confident this is going to be her best work yet. Complex characters, delicious angst, gritty story and perfectly written and paced. Love, love, love!
January 16, 2019
This is a short read and a prequel to Stealing Beauty!!
Stolen Innocence is the prequel to Stealing Beauty.
Intriguing prequel to what it'll be and intense and intriguing story stuck with all kind of emotions!
When she was 14 years old, Valentina was sold to the evil Vincente, a freaking mob monster by her own stupid brother. That's how she happens to meet Adrian, the evil monster's son. Adrian disliked Valentina, but when his feelings had change, and they were in love, his father sends him away. SO FREAKING SAD!!
You need to read this free prequel so that you get an idea of what's to come, and believe me, coming from Author Julia Sykes, you are in for the ride of your life one more time!!
Stolen Innocence is the prequel to Stealing Beauty.
Intriguing prequel to what it'll be and intense and intriguing story stuck with all kind of emotions!
When she was 14 years old, Valentina was sold to the evil Vincente, a freaking mob monster by her own stupid brother. That's how she happens to meet Adrian, the evil monster's son. Adrian disliked Valentina, but when his feelings had change, and they were in love, his father sends him away. SO FREAKING SAD!!
You need to read this free prequel so that you get an idea of what's to come, and believe me, coming from Author Julia Sykes, you are in for the ride of your life one more time!!
August 24, 2025
Prequal novella - mafia, dark
This is a short dark mafia romance novella that ends on a cliffhanger as it is a prequel to the book. FMC is sold to a mafia don creep at age 14yo who for plot reasons doesn’t “take” her, says he’ll wait till she’s a “woman” ((yukkkk I hate them)) and he happens to have a teenage son so they kinda grow up together. They fall in love but of course his dad is powerful and evil so… unhappy cliffhanger at the end of this one. Need to read the next one to see if she gets a satisfying HEA which would require some real revenge.
The way she was sexualised at 14yo was yuk but is it because the characters are yuk? The teenage boy has feels for her as well… dunno. Undecided on the vibes of this one. I’m going to check out the next book.
This is a short dark mafia romance novella that ends on a cliffhanger as it is a prequel to the book. FMC is sold to a mafia don creep at age 14yo who for plot reasons doesn’t “take” her, says he’ll wait till she’s a “woman” ((yukkkk I hate them)) and he happens to have a teenage son so they kinda grow up together. They fall in love but of course his dad is powerful and evil so… unhappy cliffhanger at the end of this one. Need to read the next one to see if she gets a satisfying HEA which would require some real revenge.
The way she was sexualised at 14yo was yuk but is it because the characters are yuk? The teenage boy has feels for her as well… dunno. Undecided on the vibes of this one. I’m going to check out the next book.
January 3, 2019
Man, I love Julia Sykes!!
Valentina's story caught my attention back in Sweet Captivity. Reading the prequel was such a tease and I can't wait for Stealing Beauty to release in a week or so.
Stolen Innocence is the beginning of Valentina and Adrian's story. I'm very familiar with Ms. Sykes' prior works but this must be my favorite so far!
Right off the bat you get a sense of Valentina and Adrian's chemistry, even with her innocence. Then the ending just rips your heart in two. I just finished and my heart is still racing! So good!! If you are a fan of Julia Sykes or a fan of dark romance in general you have to read this book!
Note: I was given an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Valentina's story caught my attention back in Sweet Captivity. Reading the prequel was such a tease and I can't wait for Stealing Beauty to release in a week or so.
Stolen Innocence is the beginning of Valentina and Adrian's story. I'm very familiar with Ms. Sykes' prior works but this must be my favorite so far!
Right off the bat you get a sense of Valentina and Adrian's chemistry, even with her innocence. Then the ending just rips your heart in two. I just finished and my heart is still racing! So good!! If you are a fan of Julia Sykes or a fan of dark romance in general you have to read this book!
Note: I was given an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews