What do you think?
Rate this book
Barresi Crime Family #2
In the Shadows
Kidnapped and claimed as the spoils of war. My captor is dark, demented, and dangerous — everything I was warned to stay away from. Yet, I’m drawn to him like a moth to a flame, and the lust that fans the fire is evolving into something else… something that could wreck me if I let it take hold. His name strikes fear into anyone who crosses him, but despite the warnings of even those close to him, I’ve allowed myself to fall for the prodigal prince of New Orleans’ underground criminal empire. Possession is nine-tenths of the law, but Luca never had any use for the law, anyway. The crime lord owns me. No longer pretending, the passion between us burns white-hot, but Luca has enemies everywhere. As the heat rises, so does the threat from an unseen enemy with a very clear message — they’re coming for Luca and will destroy everything and everyone that stands in their way. When the enemy storms the gates, will we rise together from the ashes of war? Or will we go down in flames when they raze his empire to the ground?
In the Shadows is part two of a three part series. It can be read as a stand-alone and has its own HFN, but the story continues from the first book and into the third. It’s recommended to read the books in order, beginning with Eyes of Stone. This book has mature content that’s intended for audiences 18+, including situations which may be triggering for some.
In the Shadows is part two of a three part series. It can be read as a stand-alone and has its own HFN, but the story continues from the first book and into the third. It’s recommended to read the books in order, beginning with Eyes of Stone. This book has mature content that’s intended for audiences 18+, including situations which may be triggering for some.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2020
41 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
July 30, 2020
Really enjoyable mafia romance.
I picked this book up on Booksprout and did not read book 1, but thought the author did a good job of dropping in enough of the backstory from the first book that I had no trouble following what had happened to the point of book 2.
I loved the strength of the characters, particularly the heroine, who is strong but not foolish. Heroines who constantly make TSTL decisions really aggravate me and I liked the maturity these characters displayed.
This book is plenty steamy, but the heart of it is Emily and Luca's love story which grows and develops through this book in ways that were a pleasure to read.
The book lost a star for me on the cliffhanger, though. I'm truly tired of cliffhangers, particularly when this isn't a particularly long book.
I would recommend this book for lovers of mafia romance and I will look for other books by this author.
I picked this book up on Booksprout and did not read book 1, but thought the author did a good job of dropping in enough of the backstory from the first book that I had no trouble following what had happened to the point of book 2.
I loved the strength of the characters, particularly the heroine, who is strong but not foolish. Heroines who constantly make TSTL decisions really aggravate me and I liked the maturity these characters displayed.
This book is plenty steamy, but the heart of it is Emily and Luca's love story which grows and develops through this book in ways that were a pleasure to read.
The book lost a star for me on the cliffhanger, though. I'm truly tired of cliffhangers, particularly when this isn't a particularly long book.
I would recommend this book for lovers of mafia romance and I will look for other books by this author.
July 28, 2020
This is the 2nd book in the Barressi series but its the first book ive read. I hadnt read the first one. Following Crime Bosses son Luca and his relationship with Emily. Luca has two different faces, the hardened, dangerous man and the tender, caring one towards Emily. Two sides of the same coin. Dante (Luca's brother) has to kill when hes given an order but its a twisted choice and one with repercussions. I liked both Luca and Dante even with all the had to do for their family but i also loved how Emily was completely unafraid to speak her mind. Even when confronted by Luca's father & Crime Boss. She didnt back down. Loved Luca and Emily's book and now ive read book 2 i might have to get book 1 as well. This was such a great read though
June 20, 2019
This was a roller-coaster reading and I love it!!
Now I need the next book ASAP!
Now I need the next book ASAP!
July 21, 2019
I definitely liked the first one better. This one kinda went in a few directions, but I still loved it. The scene with Luca and Emily ... kind of killed me.
I’ve grown to love these characters so much; I can’t wait for the next book, but I also don’t want it to end.
I’ve grown to love these characters so much; I can’t wait for the next book, but I also don’t want it to end.
July 26, 2020
The beginning
This is book 2 in the series. Emily and Luca continue their story. They have passed a great obstacle but it was only the beginning. Emily learns what it means to live within the familiar and what it entails.
I enjoyed that this book followed through with Emily’s full story. It includes her feelings that anyone could relate to. Also how Emily comments that she knows she might be overreacting on her feelings but what else can she do. That makes Emily more relatable because at one point or another that is how anyone has felt. We also see another side of Luca where we can connect to him too. I started to see him as a person rather than just the dangerous man he is. He starts to let Emily into his shell in his own way.
The cliffhanger has me want the next book now.
This is book 2 in the series. Emily and Luca continue their story. They have passed a great obstacle but it was only the beginning. Emily learns what it means to live within the familiar and what it entails.
I enjoyed that this book followed through with Emily’s full story. It includes her feelings that anyone could relate to. Also how Emily comments that she knows she might be overreacting on her feelings but what else can she do. That makes Emily more relatable because at one point or another that is how anyone has felt. We also see another side of Luca where we can connect to him too. I started to see him as a person rather than just the dangerous man he is. He starts to let Emily into his shell in his own way.
The cliffhanger has me want the next book now.
May 14, 2019
This is an amazing book about the son of a mafia crime boss named Luca who falls in love with a young woman named Emily. It seems he kidnapped Emily before, but she has fallen in love with him, accepting all the crimes he commits. There are great sex scenes. One main theme of the book is that a man must commit a murder when ordered so hat he can join the mafia family. Luca's brother, Dante, is ordered to commit such a murder. But who must he murder, and who gave the order to do so? Many suspenseful events happen, and the reader should be warned that the book ends on a cliffhanger, but I highly recommend reading it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 18, 2019
Lucas has found his one and only in Emily. Willing to face condemnation from his mafia family for her and hesitant to reveal his criminal activities in fear of losing her, he made for a great dark alpha male hero.
I loved the way he tried to be as upfront with Emily as he could, always worrying about her safety.
After being rescued and saved by Lucas and removing Andre from her life, Emily willingly walked into the relationship with her eyes wide open.
Lots of intrigue and romance whenever these two got together as Emily tried to assimilate into Lucas’s life.
There was a nice HFN, but still many questions left without answers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the way he tried to be as upfront with Emily as he could, always worrying about her safety.
After being rescued and saved by Lucas and removing Andre from her life, Emily willingly walked into the relationship with her eyes wide open.
Lots of intrigue and romance whenever these two got together as Emily tried to assimilate into Lucas’s life.
There was a nice HFN, but still many questions left without answers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2019
This is book 2 in the Barresi Series and as in the first book, this author reels you in from the first page through and past the final cliffhanger scene. The story is interesting and definitely holds your attention throughout the action and twists. The characters are vivid, vibrant, and absolutely memorable. Although Luca forced Emily to come with him, the are now an inseparable loving couple. Fantastic read!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2019
This is the 2nd book I've read written by Lux Miller; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I will definitely be reading more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
July 27, 2020
Love, passion, hot!
Book 2
Emily is still the woman the Barresi men need. Yes I do say Men because the brothers both need her! She’s honest, loving and a little fire ball when it comes to putting them in their place!
Luca is even more in love and I appreciate that his character is an alpha but bows to his queen!
This is a true definition of power couple! I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Book 2
Emily is still the woman the Barresi men need. Yes I do say Men because the brothers both need her! She’s honest, loving and a little fire ball when it comes to putting them in their place!
Luca is even more in love and I appreciate that his character is an alpha but bows to his queen!
This is a true definition of power couple! I can’t wait to see what happens next!
August 7, 2020
This is the first book (that I can remember) I have read by this author. I didn't read the first one, this book has made me want to go back and read the first one so that's what I shall do.
Anyway this book is a little dark, in all the right places. I really enjoyed the story and the characters.. time to go find more books by Lux 🖤
The main characters are how I like my main characters with a lot of personality, strong and alpha .. such a good book ,🖤
Anyway this book is a little dark, in all the right places. I really enjoyed the story and the characters.. time to go find more books by Lux 🖤
The main characters are how I like my main characters with a lot of personality, strong and alpha .. such a good book ,🖤
August 10, 2020
Lux Miller has an edge that makes her characters show a soft side which can switch in a nano second, you can feel the love and destruction as it happens. Luca and Emily need to find what's real or is this as people are saying a flavour of the month. Omg what a cliffhanger, I don't know if I'm coming or going, the anticipation is slowly dragging me down the rabbit hole of can't breathe scared to breathe incase I miss something, am really loving this. I voluntarily reviewed this book.
October 18, 2020
This is a continuation of Luca and Emily's story. I could not put this down, I am enthralled with the Baressi family. You will not be disappointed, even though the author leaves us with a cliffhanger. We are given insight into Luca and see more of him than the enforcer his father has made him into. Emily is a strong character and she learns how to live in the mafia family she has come to love. A must read, so excited for book 3!!
May 28, 2019
I found this to be a superb storyline that grabs you right from the start keeping you engrossed and on edge throughout the whole book!
Great characters that will keep your interest extremely well. The chemistry, sweetness, and twists in plot kept things interesting.
Add in drama and steamy passion and you have a good read.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Great characters that will keep your interest extremely well. The chemistry, sweetness, and twists in plot kept things interesting.
Add in drama and steamy passion and you have a good read.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2019
book 2 in the Barresi Series and as in the first book, this author reels you in from the first page through and past the final cliffhanger scene.The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2019
This was a great sequel in the continuing saga and the drama continues to build as the story progresses. I can feel the dynamic changing between the two main characters as emotions are further engaged. I loved how the author created a lasting image in my head of their encounters through imaginative dialogue and realistic reactions. Wonderful. Recommend
July 17, 2020
Second book in the series does not disappoint. Lux Miller has given us another look into the lives of the Barresi's crime family and we get introduced to Mama Barresi and Noemi, Luca and Dante's younger sister. This story does not disappoint, you will want to read the book to find out what is happening with Luca, Emily and Dante. Personally I cannot wait for book 3.
July 18, 2020
Loved it, must read. The chemistry between her characters is amazing. Total shocker for me, actually didn't see a few things coming, which is not something that usually happens. It's like a cross between Romeo and Juliet mixed with Sopranos or The Godfather. I really enjoyed it and can't wait for more.
July 29, 2020
I love this series !! Fabulous writing with amazing strong characters and not just Lucas and Emily. The life of the mafia as it unfolds and not just the action but the actual living. Oh and the huge twist this one has might just have you baffled. Can’t wait for more !!
I received this as an ARC and this is my honest and voluntary review.
I received this as an ARC and this is my honest and voluntary review.
September 28, 2020
This trilogy would be so much better if it was condensed into one book. Too much sex, weird unnecessary storylines and characters... Idk I was disappointed overall. They're having sex once a chapter and it just got to be too much. I get it, you like him but... Also we barely learn anything about Emily till the third book. Which is why they should be combined into one.
May 17, 2019
OMG, what another great read, exciting and a page turner!!! The characters were great and the author really knows how to involve the reader. The pages jump out at the reader.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 21, 2019
I 'm now super excited for the next installment! Just like the first book, this one sucked me in. It had suspense, intrigue, steam, and is twisted. So good!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2019
She had been kidnapped and he had used her until she become totally his. He is strong, dark and powerful. They have fallen in love but will that be enough when danger comes for him? See if it is
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2020
Another great read in this series!! If you are looking for a mafia book with lots of drama, action, and heat, this series is for you! This particular book does leave off in a cliffhanger so I’ll be starting book three straight away!
June 27, 2020
Lots of action in this one and I love the development of relationships between the characters and not just between the lovers. Dante is a big part of this book and it gives another layer of depth to the story. Lots of hot action and plots galore. Looking forward to the finale.
July 18, 2020
In the Shadows is really good! Emily learns how to live with the mafia, she never imagine it but they would do anything to keep her safe. I love the way she acts with Luca and Dante. So many secrets and she still manages to keep up with them. Can't wait for the third one!
July 25, 2020
Book two is absolutely amazing. It's a great continuation of the series. The character growth is worked into each character thoroughly. The author does a great job following and executing the flow from book one into book two. I can't wait to see what else she has to offer in the next book.
August 17, 2020
Omg this book was so freaking good even better than the first. I love lucas and their relationship the fire and the chemistry is was so good. The action, suspence and that cliffhanger is making me want to skip sleep and get started on the third book already. Definitely five stars from me!!
August 22, 2020
WOW. Just wow. This book was amazing. This series has sucked me in and I can't stop reading about Emily and Luca. I'm so excited to see where this goes. Lux Miller is a genius! You don't want to miss out on this series.
May 23, 2019
I really enjoyed this series it kept me interested from the beginning and I never wanted it to end.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews