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The After Another Series #3
One Second After Another
There’s only one way this can end … Penny Dunsworth isn’t hiding. Not anymore. An assassin turned legend, AWOL from her organization and hunted from all sides, nothing is going to stop her from finishing what she started. By the time she’s done with The Elite, no truth will be left untold, and maybe—just maybe—she can go back ... That is if she can make it out alive. Luca Puzza only wanted to help. His obsession with the white ghost has left him alone, estranged from his own world and family, and in constant danger. That doesn’t mean he’s going to give up. Besides, if he found her once, then he can do it again. And this time, he won’t be the one letting her go. There’s too much on the line to fail. She dares to wish for a life after pain. He dares to think they could have it. But it only takes one second for everything to change—one mistake could end it all. Some say legends never die. But what happens when they do? * One Second After Another is book 3 in the After Another trilogy. It follows the same couple – Luca and Penny – from present to past, and back again. The books must be read in order. Be warned, the trilogy discusses a subject that may be triggering.
151 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 9, 2020
26 people are currently reading
176 people want to read
About the author
Bethany-Kris
107 books4,260 followersThe author of too many novels to count, Bethany-Kris is a Canadian, lover of much, and mother to four sons, a glaring of cats, and a pack of dogs. A small town in Eastern Canada where she was born and raised is where she has always called home. With her boys under her feet, a snuggling cat, barking dogs, and a spouse calling over his shoulder, she is nearly always writing something ... when she can find the time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 6, 2022
2.5 stars
Review for all 3 books:
1st book is set in the present and let’s us meet the hero and heroine.
2nd book is all about the past (meh)
3rd book is about resolving the conflict so they can have the HEA
And all 3 books were equally boring with the 2nd being the hardest to care for.
Not my usual response to a BK book, but I was bored. The story didn’t captivate me and the hero and heroine didn’t either.
The heroine’s background should have made me empathetic towards her life choices and her as a person who has overcome a lot, but I just didn’t like the plot and most importantly I couldn’t connect with her or the hero.
They were both very bland. I didn’t feel like they had chemistry and their relationship development also didn’t convince me they were in love.
The plot also had a lot of holes and some things were beyond the realm of possibility.
Overall, this was one of the worst books I’ve read by BK.
Review for all 3 books:
1st book is set in the present and let’s us meet the hero and heroine.
2nd book is all about the past (meh)
3rd book is about resolving the conflict so they can have the HEA
And all 3 books were equally boring with the 2nd being the hardest to care for.
Not my usual response to a BK book, but I was bored. The story didn’t captivate me and the hero and heroine didn’t either.
The heroine’s background should have made me empathetic towards her life choices and her as a person who has overcome a lot, but I just didn’t like the plot and most importantly I couldn’t connect with her or the hero.
They were both very bland. I didn’t feel like they had chemistry and their relationship development also didn’t convince me they were in love.
The plot also had a lot of holes and some things were beyond the realm of possibility.
Overall, this was one of the worst books I’ve read by BK.
October 23, 2020
5 “Restart” Stars
I knew going into book 3 that I was going to be in for a heart jarring journey. Penny has one thing left to do in her quest and she will stop at nothing even if it keeps her from going back. Luca has only ever wanted to be there for Penny, to be by her side and offer his help. But sometimes, missions need to be done alone.
What I loved most throughout this trilogy is Penny’s growth. She has had so much hurt in her life. She had to learn to trust and to love and even though she was gone for 5 years, she needed that time to become the strong, determined, willfull Penny who was taking names and kicking ass. But what about Luca, where does he fit in with Penny and her mission? Can there be a Penny and Luca?
This trilogy went full circle. There was anguish, heartbreak, vengeance, as well as compassion, redemption, love and trust. I loved how Cross Donati played another pivotal role in Penny’s life and getting more Naz, Roz and little Cross made the story even more emotional in my mind.
All I can say is if you want to read a beautifully emotional story that is high on feelings, this trilogy shouldn’t be missed. Bethany Kris is a masterful storyteller that truly knows how to bring the rawest of emotions out in her writing. A best trilogy of 2020!!
*advanced copy generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
I knew going into book 3 that I was going to be in for a heart jarring journey. Penny has one thing left to do in her quest and she will stop at nothing even if it keeps her from going back. Luca has only ever wanted to be there for Penny, to be by her side and offer his help. But sometimes, missions need to be done alone.
What I loved most throughout this trilogy is Penny’s growth. She has had so much hurt in her life. She had to learn to trust and to love and even though she was gone for 5 years, she needed that time to become the strong, determined, willfull Penny who was taking names and kicking ass. But what about Luca, where does he fit in with Penny and her mission? Can there be a Penny and Luca?
This trilogy went full circle. There was anguish, heartbreak, vengeance, as well as compassion, redemption, love and trust. I loved how Cross Donati played another pivotal role in Penny’s life and getting more Naz, Roz and little Cross made the story even more emotional in my mind.
All I can say is if you want to read a beautifully emotional story that is high on feelings, this trilogy shouldn’t be missed. Bethany Kris is a masterful storyteller that truly knows how to bring the rawest of emotions out in her writing. A best trilogy of 2020!!
*advanced copy generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
November 12, 2020
Disappointed, Penny annoyed me throughout the story and Luca never figured out what he wanted to do. This story was just off. This didn’t feel like a conclusion.
November 21, 2020
I finally got the time to write this review so first of all, I want to make it clear that just because I received an ARC means I'm going to lie, I'm going to stay true always.
What I like:
-I loved the action and how I was on the edge of my seat 24/7 with this book. (I'm not into action books even less with mafia books, but this book really did it for me)
- I actually felt so connected to Penny through this series, it was what kept me going.
- I liked how the book wraps up in general the series was great.
What I didn't like so much:
-There wasn't much romance.
- I haven't read Naz & Roz books so I was very lost at first but I think is better to read them first. (that's something I didn't like because of how lost I was until I heard Cross name)
If you are looking for a mafia romance, I don't think this series is for you 90% of each one of these books is about action and suspense the other 10% left is romance.
I do think the series is worth it, I loved this series with my heart, Penny really made me feel less alone and more understand.
What I like:
-I loved the action and how I was on the edge of my seat 24/7 with this book. (I'm not into action books even less with mafia books, but this book really did it for me)
- I actually felt so connected to Penny through this series, it was what kept me going.
- I liked how the book wraps up in general the series was great.
What I didn't like so much:
-There wasn't much romance.
- I haven't read Naz & Roz books so I was very lost at first but I think is better to read them first. (that's something I didn't like because of how lost I was until I heard Cross name)
If you are looking for a mafia romance, I don't think this series is for you 90% of each one of these books is about action and suspense the other 10% left is romance.
I do think the series is worth it, I loved this series with my heart, Penny really made me feel less alone and more understand.
November 7, 2020
4.25 Stars
One Second After Another is the conclusion of the story of Penny and Luca, and like the first two books in this series, the author takes readers on a roller coaster of emotions.
Luca and Penny were great characters from beginning to end, but my favorite part of the story was being able to keep up with Penny's growth throughout her journey. She has been through so much and suffered a lot and as soon as I finished this trilogy I got the feeling that finally Penny came out on the other side stronger.
I am not going to go into the details of the story because I believe that every reader should experience the whirlwind of emotions that the author's writing passes on to readers with this story, but I can say that I really liked this trilogy, and that finally these characters completed the full circle of your journey
The After another Trilogy brings a story that stuck me from beginning to end and that I recommend to anyone who likes dark reading, with mystery, romance is an emotional journey from beginning to end.
➖➖➖
One Second After Another é a conclusão da história de Penny e Luca , e assim como os dois primeiros livros dessa série a autora leva os leitores a uma montanha russa de emoções.
Luca e Penny foram ótimos personagens do começo ao fim, mas minha parte favorita da história foi poder acompanhar o crescimento de Penny ao longo de sua jornada. Ela já passou por tanta coisa e sofreu muito e assim que terminei essa trilogia fiquei com o sentimento que finalmente Penny saiu do outro lado mais forte.
Eu não vou entrar em detalhes da história porque acredito que todo leitor deve experimentar o turbilhão de emoções que a escrita da autora passa aos leitores com essa história, mas posso dizer que eu gostei muito dessa trilogia , e que finalmente esses personagens completaram o círculo completo de sua jornada
The After another Trilogia traz uma história que me prendeu do começo ao fim e que eu recomendo a quem gosta de uma leitura dark, com mistério, romance é uma jornada emocional do começo ao fim
I Received an unreleased copy of this book
One Second After Another is the conclusion of the story of Penny and Luca, and like the first two books in this series, the author takes readers on a roller coaster of emotions.
Luca and Penny were great characters from beginning to end, but my favorite part of the story was being able to keep up with Penny's growth throughout her journey. She has been through so much and suffered a lot and as soon as I finished this trilogy I got the feeling that finally Penny came out on the other side stronger.
I am not going to go into the details of the story because I believe that every reader should experience the whirlwind of emotions that the author's writing passes on to readers with this story, but I can say that I really liked this trilogy, and that finally these characters completed the full circle of your journey
The After another Trilogy brings a story that stuck me from beginning to end and that I recommend to anyone who likes dark reading, with mystery, romance is an emotional journey from beginning to end.
➖➖➖
One Second After Another é a conclusão da história de Penny e Luca , e assim como os dois primeiros livros dessa série a autora leva os leitores a uma montanha russa de emoções.
Luca e Penny foram ótimos personagens do começo ao fim, mas minha parte favorita da história foi poder acompanhar o crescimento de Penny ao longo de sua jornada. Ela já passou por tanta coisa e sofreu muito e assim que terminei essa trilogia fiquei com o sentimento que finalmente Penny saiu do outro lado mais forte.
Eu não vou entrar em detalhes da história porque acredito que todo leitor deve experimentar o turbilhão de emoções que a escrita da autora passa aos leitores com essa história, mas posso dizer que eu gostei muito dessa trilogia , e que finalmente esses personagens completaram o círculo completo de sua jornada
The After another Trilogia traz uma história que me prendeu do começo ao fim e que eu recomendo a quem gosta de uma leitura dark, com mistério, romance é uma jornada emocional do começo ao fim
I Received an unreleased copy of this book
January 21, 2021
I never cared for Penny as an adult. I felt bad for her but didn't like how she abandoned the people she loved. Luca needed more direction which he did not find by the end of the story. The romance didn't work for me. They never seemed like a team.
November 12, 2020
Rating: 2 -2.5 stars
Luca, as the unwavering hero, was by far my favorite part of this series, especially in this final book. Penny’s opening persona as a lady James Bond-ish character was cool, too. What surprised me was at nearly 70% into book 3, I’ve realized a lot of time was spent on Luca looking for Penny again, a recurring theme since that happened a lot in book 1. In hindsight, I’ve also come to conclude when all the pivotal plot pieces/players are combined and put side by side it’s all sort of out there, folks. Along with the nagging feeling this might have been wrapped up better in one book, if the filler troubled teenage content revolving around Penny in book 2 had been left out, that is.
The disturbing notion/trigger content that was the basis of Penny’s pain, suffering wasn’t a good springboard for me personally to prop up this series. What can I say? We all have our personal preferences. That simply isn’t content I want to come across in my romantic reads.
Despite the eyebrow raising, did that really just happen, split second scenario near the end, I was quite surprised the book meandered a bit after that before a brief reunion then very abrupt ending. It didn’t actually feel like a complete ending to me. Like a director yelling, “That’s a wrap!” before the movie actually ended.
Filthy Marcellos and The Chicago War were epic reads for me. This one, well, not so much. It had some twists I didn’t expect but the writing wasn’t up to par with the two series I just mentioned.
Title: One Second After Another, Series: The After Another Trilogy, Author: Bethany-Kris, Pages: 182, pub date: 11/9/20, not a stand-alone, must read books in order, on-going storyline, graphic smex, some violence, references to very disturbing trigger content.
Book 1 - One Step After Another
Book 2 - One Breath After Another
Book 3 - One Second After Another
(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. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author, publisher, or any PR firm.)
Luca, as the unwavering hero, was by far my favorite part of this series, especially in this final book. Penny’s opening persona as a lady James Bond-ish character was cool, too. What surprised me was at nearly 70% into book 3, I’ve realized a lot of time was spent on Luca looking for Penny again, a recurring theme since that happened a lot in book 1. In hindsight, I’ve also come to conclude when all the pivotal plot pieces/players are combined and put side by side it’s all sort of out there, folks. Along with the nagging feeling this might have been wrapped up better in one book, if the filler troubled teenage content revolving around Penny in book 2 had been left out, that is.
The disturbing notion/trigger content that was the basis of Penny’s pain, suffering wasn’t a good springboard for me personally to prop up this series. What can I say? We all have our personal preferences. That simply isn’t content I want to come across in my romantic reads.
Despite the eyebrow raising, did that really just happen, split second scenario near the end, I was quite surprised the book meandered a bit after that before a brief reunion then very abrupt ending. It didn’t actually feel like a complete ending to me. Like a director yelling, “That’s a wrap!” before the movie actually ended.
Filthy Marcellos and The Chicago War were epic reads for me. This one, well, not so much. It had some twists I didn’t expect but the writing wasn’t up to par with the two series I just mentioned.
Title: One Second After Another, Series: The After Another Trilogy, Author: Bethany-Kris, Pages: 182, pub date: 11/9/20, not a stand-alone, must read books in order, on-going storyline, graphic smex, some violence, references to very disturbing trigger content.
Book 1 - One Step After Another
Book 2 - One Breath After Another
Book 3 - One Second After Another
(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. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author, publisher, or any PR firm.)
November 9, 2020
*** 5 A new beginning Stars ***
"There were always worse monsters waiting in the wings. Penny was only one of them."
Picking up right where the last book left off, One Second After Another started things off with a dark and delectable bang. How are Penny & Luca going to get their happy ending when someone so evil want's to keep them apart? Or better yet will Penny let her vengeance consume her whole. . . leaving nothing but ashes in her wake? If you know anything about Luca, the man never gives up. His sights are on the white ghost and he will do whatever it takes to protect what is his. Nothing and no one will keep him away from Penny. Not even death.
The After Another Trilogy was a journey of finding a deep and abiding love in the most unconventional ways. From Penny's resilience and fortitude to Luca's black-and-white view and his eventual redemption. The love and utter devotion Luca had for Penny and his willingness to be vulnerable to her and see the woman behind the mask. Penny has gone through so much, survived such brutality, abuse yet Luca is there every step of the way to pick up the pieces.
I absolutely adored reading this series. It's dark and demented featuring a scared heroine and a scrumptious anti-hero who becomes a long lost knight in shining armor. This series is not faint for the heart, its painful and full of angst...but worthy of all the stars.
"There were always worse monsters waiting in the wings. Penny was only one of them."
Picking up right where the last book left off, One Second After Another started things off with a dark and delectable bang. How are Penny & Luca going to get their happy ending when someone so evil want's to keep them apart? Or better yet will Penny let her vengeance consume her whole. . . leaving nothing but ashes in her wake? If you know anything about Luca, the man never gives up. His sights are on the white ghost and he will do whatever it takes to protect what is his. Nothing and no one will keep him away from Penny. Not even death.
The After Another Trilogy was a journey of finding a deep and abiding love in the most unconventional ways. From Penny's resilience and fortitude to Luca's black-and-white view and his eventual redemption. The love and utter devotion Luca had for Penny and his willingness to be vulnerable to her and see the woman behind the mask. Penny has gone through so much, survived such brutality, abuse yet Luca is there every step of the way to pick up the pieces.
I absolutely adored reading this series. It's dark and demented featuring a scared heroine and a scrumptious anti-hero who becomes a long lost knight in shining armor. This series is not faint for the heart, its painful and full of angst...but worthy of all the stars.
November 14, 2020
In the previous books of the series Penny was able to wreak some vengeance on those that irrevocably changed her life and left her emotionally scarred but the person who set the whole experience in motion remains unscathed. She is not about to walk away until she gets the satisfaction she needs and will do whatever is necessary to ensure that happens, but she wasn’t prepared for the determination of Luca.
Luca not only finds himself in a dangerous situation, but Penny is gone and there is nothing to won’t do to not only get her back but to ensure she realizes the only place she belongs is with him. He is equal parts strength and swoon as every action he takes illustrates the depth of his feelings for Penny and he won’t rest until they are together and safe.
This story takes us on quite the ride as the characters draw you in and after all they have been through if anyone deserves a happy ending it is this couple.
Luca not only finds himself in a dangerous situation, but Penny is gone and there is nothing to won’t do to not only get her back but to ensure she realizes the only place she belongs is with him. He is equal parts strength and swoon as every action he takes illustrates the depth of his feelings for Penny and he won’t rest until they are together and safe.
This story takes us on quite the ride as the characters draw you in and after all they have been through if anyone deserves a happy ending it is this couple.
October 15, 2020
BK captured my heart with Luca and Penny’s story. This trilogy is so heartbreakingly beautiful. The author has penned a story that will have you so enthralled from page 1 in One Step After Another to the final page in One Second After Another. The After Trilogy had me on a rollercoaster of emotions. There was no epilogue but I feel the end was just... perfect. The conclusion to this trilogy has come full circle as we have seen their past, their present and now their future; it left me feeling satisfied and had my heart feeling so full. My heart hurt for Penny and Luca throughout the series but as always BK had mended it by the end of the final book with her superb writing. Sometimes it has to hurt before things get better. This is one of those stories. Epic!
tbr-kindle-doc
October 19, 2020
I'm ready, are YOU?!
Releasing November 9th! Pre-order your copy today!
Amazon:https://geni.us/OneSecond
iTunes:https://apple.co/3g3lkjc
Nook:https://bit.ly/313XKyG
Kobo:https://bit.ly/2DYf5jI
November 12, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
This story was an incredible conclusion to The After Another Trilogy. Bethany-Kris captivated me with this book. I couldn't get enough of Luca and Penny's story. One Second After Another by Bethany-Kris is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
This story was an incredible conclusion to The After Another Trilogy. Bethany-Kris captivated me with this book. I couldn't get enough of Luca and Penny's story. One Second After Another by Bethany-Kris is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
November 14, 2020
I have read all of the books written by Bethany-Kris and I believe without a doubt this the best story Bethany-Kris has authored so far. I picked it up and didn't lay it down until I finished it. There are not enough words to describe the emotional roller-coaster going on in my mind as the story drew to a close. Stunned to say the least. I love Luca, he is not going to let Penny go this time. Except how will they survive with everyone after them and the White Ghost is not stopping this time. Read this book and be ready for an extraordinary journey of love, pain, and anguish!
April 24, 2021
My review applies to all three parts of the trilogy. This story probably features the most beta hero I've ever come upon in a Bethany-Kris novel. The plot line held a lot of potential but overall the trilogy just left me completely dissatisfied. The best part is the second instalment that goes back to the time when Penny, the heroine, comes into Naz' and Roz' family.
The ending is so open, there's no real closure after all the hoopla that went on. They never truly had a chance to settle down as a couple after all the action which is why a good closure in a fast paced book is so vital to me, the reader, being satisfied.
I also didn't like that there's no real solution to the hero's situation with the mafia and his studies. His father is dissatisfied because he never became a made man, his mother because he never finished his studies as a lawyer. It is said he has a successful career but there's not a lot of talk about it as he's solely preoccupied with finding Penny. Nevertheless he's still his best friend Naz', the future don of the Donati family, right hand man, even though he's not made.
A lot of things don't add up. Since this author's work is no longer available through KU (with the exception for #1 and #3 of this trilogy) I have become reluctant to shell out money for her works. So far her more recent work mostly left me dissatisfied, hence my unwillingness to shell out 4-5€ per book.... which I wouldn't mind would her work still deliver as it did in the past.
D+ for first and third instalment, B for the second one, it's by far the most gripping and interesting part of the trilogy.
The ending is so open, there's no real closure after all the hoopla that went on. They never truly had a chance to settle down as a couple after all the action which is why a good closure in a fast paced book is so vital to me, the reader, being satisfied.
I also didn't like that there's no real solution to the hero's situation with the mafia and his studies. His father is dissatisfied because he never became a made man, his mother because he never finished his studies as a lawyer. It is said he has a successful career but there's not a lot of talk about it as he's solely preoccupied with finding Penny. Nevertheless he's still his best friend Naz', the future don of the Donati family, right hand man, even though he's not made.
A lot of things don't add up. Since this author's work is no longer available through KU (with the exception for #1 and #3 of this trilogy) I have become reluctant to shell out money for her works. So far her more recent work mostly left me dissatisfied, hence my unwillingness to shell out 4-5€ per book.... which I wouldn't mind would her work still deliver as it did in the past.
D+ for first and third instalment, B for the second one, it's by far the most gripping and interesting part of the trilogy.
August 24, 2022
This was one fantastic read that was action-packed from beginning to end. An awesome story that was filled with intrigue and suspense. I was glued to the page from the moment we started reading. Bethany Kris never disappoints I thought the conclusion to this story ended perfectly, and I have to say I never saw that ending coming, and I was pleasantly pleased.
Luca and Penny made an awesome couple and I loved they were just perfect for one another. Their chemistry was off the charts and the romantic entanglement was messy but, super hot.
Along with such much heartache that came along with this story, there also was a lot of love. Little Cross just melted your heart, Cree is my new hero! Penny will be a character that will live in our hearts forever she will be a memorable character never to be forgotten for all the pain and suffering he had to endure to becoming a completely new woman to revenging herself and all those that became before and after her, all the while knowing when it is said all said and done she will probably forfeit her own life. We fell in love with the broken women, but, we loved the clever warrior so much more.
Overall, a fantastic read from beginning to end that came with an amazing cast of characters. Cross Donati, I didn't think we could fall in love with your character anymore but, you proved us wrong we loved that you had Penny's back always and forever!
Loved, Loved, Loved It!
Luca and Penny made an awesome couple and I loved they were just perfect for one another. Their chemistry was off the charts and the romantic entanglement was messy but, super hot.
Along with such much heartache that came along with this story, there also was a lot of love. Little Cross just melted your heart, Cree is my new hero! Penny will be a character that will live in our hearts forever she will be a memorable character never to be forgotten for all the pain and suffering he had to endure to becoming a completely new woman to revenging herself and all those that became before and after her, all the while knowing when it is said all said and done she will probably forfeit her own life. We fell in love with the broken women, but, we loved the clever warrior so much more.
Overall, a fantastic read from beginning to end that came with an amazing cast of characters. Cross Donati, I didn't think we could fall in love with your character anymore but, you proved us wrong we loved that you had Penny's back always and forever!
Loved, Loved, Loved It!
November 15, 2020
This was the ending I was hoping for!
Full of all the super swing emotions these characters were living, the ending to this trilogy was tense, edge of your seat suspense…
Penny’s goal hadn’t changed but the road had taken her, and Luca, down some very different (then they expected) paths. Family was involved in every step in some really surprising and twisty ways. From tender moments to spine-chilling confrontations, surprises kept this story hurtling at super-sonic pace to what at first seemed an almost quiet climax. Yeah, I wasn’t right about that either…
The bond between them took many hits over a short period of time but it held through it all. Even though they both kept their feelings for the other at arm’s length each decision was weighed on how it would affect them both. Despite the outcomes… Through anything that came their way…
I wished the ending had more but maybe that means there is a follow up to their story – I sure hope so!!
June 4, 2021
I enjoyed the Trilogy, but I didn't love it like I expected to with this author. The male lead fell short for me and the chasing throughout the book didn't do it for me. For some reason it was missing the spark I normally get from this author. I usually have the whole stomach dropping several times and that never happened and I truly missed that part.
November 10, 2020
One Second After Another is the third book in this heartbreaking trilogy by Bethany Kris. The three books combined show us the journey of Penny Dunsworth as she avenges the wrongs committed against her by the people who are supposed to love her the most.
Some of the themes that run deeply through these books are that of having the agency to make your own family, being vulnerable enough to love someone deeply and fiercely, and experiencing the power of loyalty. Penny's family was corrupted and rotted from the inside, so when she had the chance to create a new family with Naz and Roz, she took that chance. However, that core nuclear family also extended to Luca and Cross, whose reach and influence affected her even each day she was gone. Penny's been used all her life, ignored and changed, now hunted by mercenaries, but her actions in this book are deliberate and calculated. Willing to save the people she loves, she puts her own life on the line, dredging up the deep and painful parts of her past and displaying them for all to see. The memories, the pictures, the videos are a reminder of her own living demons, those she needs to exorcise and destroy to rid the world of monsters.
The true hero of this story is Penny. Even Luca admitted "I never tried to save you- that was everybody else's job. I only ever wanted to help." Bethany Kris wrote such a dynamic character, one with a warped body, a broken soul, and a shattered heart. But don't believe for one second that someone needed to save Penny, or that there was anything ugly about her. Instead, her story is that of the transformative power of taking charge of your own life, of being resilient, of breaking apart only to be reborn again to experience a new life. Not many people get to restart, but Penny is finally liberated from her past and free from the psychological torment of her parents, and that right there encapsulates the beauty of life: hope and rebirth.
Some of the themes that run deeply through these books are that of having the agency to make your own family, being vulnerable enough to love someone deeply and fiercely, and experiencing the power of loyalty. Penny's family was corrupted and rotted from the inside, so when she had the chance to create a new family with Naz and Roz, she took that chance. However, that core nuclear family also extended to Luca and Cross, whose reach and influence affected her even each day she was gone. Penny's been used all her life, ignored and changed, now hunted by mercenaries, but her actions in this book are deliberate and calculated. Willing to save the people she loves, she puts her own life on the line, dredging up the deep and painful parts of her past and displaying them for all to see. The memories, the pictures, the videos are a reminder of her own living demons, those she needs to exorcise and destroy to rid the world of monsters.
The true hero of this story is Penny. Even Luca admitted "I never tried to save you- that was everybody else's job. I only ever wanted to help." Bethany Kris wrote such a dynamic character, one with a warped body, a broken soul, and a shattered heart. But don't believe for one second that someone needed to save Penny, or that there was anything ugly about her. Instead, her story is that of the transformative power of taking charge of your own life, of being resilient, of breaking apart only to be reborn again to experience a new life. Not many people get to restart, but Penny is finally liberated from her past and free from the psychological torment of her parents, and that right there encapsulates the beauty of life: hope and rebirth.
November 13, 2020
Absolutely stunning conclusion to a spectacular trilogy! Although this is a mafia adjacent series it still has all the intense suspense and swoon-worthy romance of this outstanding author's Cosa Nostra stories that I love, love, love. Luca is a dream hero as the third generation of fierce Donati family's right hand to the boss. But Luca turned his back on his legacy to chase a ghost. The White Ghost. She's the troubled young woman with a horrific past that ran to keep those she loves safe and maybe find a way to overcome her past. She gets help from an unexpected person and Penny becomes a badass assassin on a mission to end those that hurt her. Luca and his best friends, Naz and Roz, can't let go of the young woman that became part of their family. Luca spent years tracking her in hopes of bringing her home. Just when he find her, and what a reunion it is, Penny slips out of his hands again and leaves him in peril as The League captures him. It's a tense situation as Luca life is the hands of those that want Penny. Will the Donatis let him go? Penny's after the person that hurt her the worse. Her mother. But she's got killers after her as the Elite and The League hunt her plus she pulls a twist that has another group after her too. It deadly suspense as Luca and Penny have a fateful reunion that's all fire and steamy love. They're fabulous as they are desperate to end the evil and find away to have a future. It looks impossible but never say never. It's an interesting end and seemed a little rushed to me. I wanted an epilogue but maybe there's another story coming with these terrific characters. I'm not ready for Cross or little Cross to fade away. I love this Donati mafia family that's on its fourth generation of fantastic characters and so much love. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC. 4.5 STARS
November 10, 2020
The final chapter of Penny’s story. After deserting the League, she goes to NY to finish what she started. But there it is more difficult than ever bc not only the Elite( the pedophile organization run by her mother and grandfather) are hunting her, but also the League. But she’s gone too far to back down now, so she devices a suicide plan that will give her enough time to kill her mother. What she didn’t count was that Luca wasn’t going to give up easily and that he would find her again.
She and Luca spend some days together while they let the plan take its course, and in those Penny plays with the idea of an after, although she knows that it will be difficult with all the danger that surrounds her.
Finally the reunion with her adoptive family arrives, the moment between Penny and Roz super emotional 😭.
Cross Sr. will help Penny on her mission again(God, how much I ❤️that character).
There are some many moments in this book that I thought it was going to end tragically... But luckily there is a HEA at the end.
I would ❤️ to see more about Penny and Luca, since in this trilogy Penny’s revenge plays a leading role and their relationship takes a back seat.
And Cross Jr... I ❤️him, another character who deserves a book.😉
I don’t want this world to end. I’ve been hooked on BK’s underground world since I read the Marcellos and with each book I have become more and more addicted.
Although we seen some of the League through Penny, Renzo Zulla, Alessio and Corrado Guzzi, there can still be more stories and characters.🙏
Also Diego Zulla’s story also deserves a small continuation.😉
What I said before, this world and these characters they would not have to end, at least not yet.
She and Luca spend some days together while they let the plan take its course, and in those Penny plays with the idea of an after, although she knows that it will be difficult with all the danger that surrounds her.
Finally the reunion with her adoptive family arrives, the moment between Penny and Roz super emotional 😭.
Cross Sr. will help Penny on her mission again(God, how much I ❤️that character).
There are some many moments in this book that I thought it was going to end tragically... But luckily there is a HEA at the end.
I would ❤️ to see more about Penny and Luca, since in this trilogy Penny’s revenge plays a leading role and their relationship takes a back seat.
And Cross Jr... I ❤️him, another character who deserves a book.😉
I don’t want this world to end. I’ve been hooked on BK’s underground world since I read the Marcellos and with each book I have become more and more addicted.
Although we seen some of the League through Penny, Renzo Zulla, Alessio and Corrado Guzzi, there can still be more stories and characters.🙏
Also Diego Zulla’s story also deserves a small continuation.😉
What I said before, this world and these characters they would not have to end, at least not yet.
October 23, 2020
This book, this whole series, was just phenomenal. Penny, for me, was such a relatable character. Her pain, her highs, her lows, her drive. In this book she was in the most danger yet, and the need to see her make it out of everything okay had me at the edge of my seat the whole story. With so many people trying to hunt her down, there wasn't a moment to breathe. But there were plenty of moments to fall deeper in love with her and Luca, with the way they would do anything for each other, with the way they trusted each other. And Luca, the way he understood Penny, and if he didn't understand, he knew that whatever she did was what she needed to, just made my heart want to grab him and never let go. He's searched for her for years and he was not going to let anything take her away.
Of course, because Penny was determined to end those who'd brought her pain, and with that came people wanting to end her life before she could achieve her goal, there was lots of action. The ending ripped my heart apart and then put the pieces back together.
It was great to see Cross, little Cross (although he'd hate me calling him that lol), Naz, and Roz again. Great book. Great series.
Of course, because Penny was determined to end those who'd brought her pain, and with that came people wanting to end her life before she could achieve her goal, there was lots of action. The ending ripped my heart apart and then put the pieces back together.
It was great to see Cross, little Cross (although he'd hate me calling him that lol), Naz, and Roz again. Great book. Great series.
November 9, 2020
4.5 stars
No one can comprehend how excited I was when I finally got to read this beauty. With this series BK outdid herself because we got deeply flawed characters with heartbreaking backstories but with such a wonderful character and will to do good and to try to make a better world not for themselves but for everyone.
I absolutely loved Penny, more than once I wanted to hug her while sucker punch everyone who tried to hurt her.
Luca... my sweet Luca. BK has a way of making male characters so... perfect that you just can't help to fall in love with them, and in this case it wasn't an exception.
Little Cross made himself partially the star of this book and I absolutely adored him. That child is the perfect combination of his parents plus his grandparents. Can't wait to read more about him.
Overall the story in this book was the perfect ending for the story (I did wanted to see our villain suffer more but) it was the end everyone but mostly Penny deserved.
Thank you to the author for the chance to read the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
No one can comprehend how excited I was when I finally got to read this beauty. With this series BK outdid herself because we got deeply flawed characters with heartbreaking backstories but with such a wonderful character and will to do good and to try to make a better world not for themselves but for everyone.
I absolutely loved Penny, more than once I wanted to hug her while sucker punch everyone who tried to hurt her.
Luca... my sweet Luca. BK has a way of making male characters so... perfect that you just can't help to fall in love with them, and in this case it wasn't an exception.
Little Cross made himself partially the star of this book and I absolutely adored him. That child is the perfect combination of his parents plus his grandparents. Can't wait to read more about him.
Overall the story in this book was the perfect ending for the story (I did wanted to see our villain suffer more but) it was the end everyone but mostly Penny deserved.
Thank you to the author for the chance to read the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2020
The end is here, and I LOVED reading every word of it.
Here we are at the end of Luca and Penny’s journey( for now fingers crossed). The accumulation of all events in the first two books that transpired all comes to ahead. I don’t want to go into the details because that would be giving away the story.
I admire Penny because even though it was hard, she did what she had to do to protect the ones that showed her love and protected her, and most of all she became something greater against all her odds. Not many people survive coming from the things she’s dealt with in life.
Luca, of course, I love the fact that she doesn’t treat Penny as a victim. He sees her and he loves her despite everything else. All he wants to do is help her, like how can you not love a guy like him.
Long live the White Ghost and the Wolf.
FYI to enjoy the pleasure of reading this masterpiece by Bethany-Kris please start with book 1 of this trilogy, One Step After Another followed by One Breath After Another.
Happy Reading
Here we are at the end of Luca and Penny’s journey( for now fingers crossed). The accumulation of all events in the first two books that transpired all comes to ahead. I don’t want to go into the details because that would be giving away the story.
I admire Penny because even though it was hard, she did what she had to do to protect the ones that showed her love and protected her, and most of all she became something greater against all her odds. Not many people survive coming from the things she’s dealt with in life.
Luca, of course, I love the fact that she doesn’t treat Penny as a victim. He sees her and he loves her despite everything else. All he wants to do is help her, like how can you not love a guy like him.
Long live the White Ghost and the Wolf.
FYI to enjoy the pleasure of reading this masterpiece by Bethany-Kris please start with book 1 of this trilogy, One Step After Another followed by One Breath After Another.
Happy Reading
November 14, 2020
Just in case y'all aren't looking at the title closely, One Second After Another is the third book in The After Another TRILOGY, and that means that you cannot skip steps by not reading books 1 & 2. This trilogy has really messed me up in the best ways as Penny is a heroine to end all heroines. Her strength was my favorite part as she knew she didn't need anyone to take care of her business, so she was definitely going to go out EPICALLY this round. That doesn't mean that I didn't love our yummy anti-hero Luca because I did, I'm just all about #GirlPower first. My emotions have been ruined as I've gone through the wringer with Penny, and I know that they'll never be the same. The twists were intense once again (f-bombs were dropping like crazy), the action is bigger, the betrayals are brutal, dirty secrets have come to light, and the development of these two was leveled up since both had mean pasts with demons sticking to them leading to trust issues. I'll never ever get enough of the brilliant Bethany-Kris, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
October 22, 2020
Each time I read a book by BK, it becomes my favourite. So I guess I will add this one to the list. The AA trilogy addresses delicate topics, and is very well executed. It's an intense story which is excruciating and soul stirring.
In this finale Luca is put in a position where he has to go after Penny once again. She is a ghost who isn't easy to find. She is finally able to put her past to rest even if she has to make sacrifices. They work together for a while, but this time she has more to lose. So she does what she does best and in the process leaves Luca in limbo. He is hopeful though. He doesn't give up. Will she get out of this situation to keep her promises?
Luca and Penny are great main characters. Their emotions are palpable and I was right along with them during the good and the bad times. It's always good to see the Donatis. Little Cross is leaving his mark and I really do hope to see more of him when he's all grown up. A gripping trilogy.
I was kindly issued with an eARC and the views expressed are my personal opinion.
In this finale Luca is put in a position where he has to go after Penny once again. She is a ghost who isn't easy to find. She is finally able to put her past to rest even if she has to make sacrifices. They work together for a while, but this time she has more to lose. So she does what she does best and in the process leaves Luca in limbo. He is hopeful though. He doesn't give up. Will she get out of this situation to keep her promises?
Luca and Penny are great main characters. Their emotions are palpable and I was right along with them during the good and the bad times. It's always good to see the Donatis. Little Cross is leaving his mark and I really do hope to see more of him when he's all grown up. A gripping trilogy.
I was kindly issued with an eARC and the views expressed are my personal opinion.
June 5, 2021
I'm a sucker for anything Bethany Kris, I think I read almost every book she has written. while reading this book at the first chapter I didn't connect the dots and realized they were in Cat and Cross's world. (I smiled so much, Cross and Cat are my all time fav)
It been a while since I re-read any books from their world, I dived in harder after I knew. I waited until I finished the three books to write my review, the books wore beautifully written, as always. the heroin was a badass, I loved her so much. I almost stopped reading because it was so overwhelming to read about her suffering. the plot twist was mind-blowing, but I would have loved it more if Catty was involved. I love that woman so much. the Hero was gentle, nice, understanding, and loving. his mind was made and he went after what he wanted, Her.
I loved little Cross scenes so much, it figures that Naz&Ros's kid would be a genius too.
I would love an outtake maybe a novella? in the near future to check on Penny.
It been a while since I re-read any books from their world, I dived in harder after I knew. I waited until I finished the three books to write my review, the books wore beautifully written, as always. the heroin was a badass, I loved her so much. I almost stopped reading because it was so overwhelming to read about her suffering. the plot twist was mind-blowing, but I would have loved it more if Catty was involved. I love that woman so much. the Hero was gentle, nice, understanding, and loving. his mind was made and he went after what he wanted, Her.
I loved little Cross scenes so much, it figures that Naz&Ros's kid would be a genius too.
I would love an outtake maybe a novella? in the near future to check on Penny.
November 10, 2020
Another astonishing read 5Stars
Bethany Kris is one of few authors I can take a book blindly&I know I won’t regret, cos she delivers outstanding writing every.single.time.
One Second After Another couldn’t be different, just like two previous books in the series Luca’s&Penny’s story, hooked me totally&I couldn’t put it down… perfectly drawn characters, story line, finally filling all the blanks&gaps, kept me well in suspense about what happens next… What can I say - just blown me away…. Well, just like any of her books in Commission World emotional roller coaster guaranteed.
Bethany Kris is one of few authors I can take a book blindly&I know I won’t regret, cos she delivers outstanding writing every.single.time.
One Second After Another couldn’t be different, just like two previous books in the series Luca’s&Penny’s story, hooked me totally&I couldn’t put it down… perfectly drawn characters, story line, finally filling all the blanks&gaps, kept me well in suspense about what happens next… What can I say - just blown me away…. Well, just like any of her books in Commission World emotional roller coaster guaranteed.
November 12, 2020
One Second After Another by Bethany-Kris is a romantic suspense. This is the third and final book in The After Another Trilogy.
The book does come with a caution "The book discusses triggering topics that may be uncomfortable for some. Please be advised and read at your own discretion."
Bethany-Kris did an amazing job wrapping up this trilogy! This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster I never wanted to get off. I absolutely loved the relationship between Luca and Penny.
I look forward to reading more of Bethany-Kris work in the future. Absolutely amazing! A Must Read Series!
I would highly recommend this series if you like romantic suspense.
The book does come with a caution "The book discusses triggering topics that may be uncomfortable for some. Please be advised and read at your own discretion."
Bethany-Kris did an amazing job wrapping up this trilogy! This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster I never wanted to get off. I absolutely loved the relationship between Luca and Penny.
I look forward to reading more of Bethany-Kris work in the future. Absolutely amazing! A Must Read Series!
I would highly recommend this series if you like romantic suspense.
November 16, 2020
The conclusion to the After Trilogy. Penny is determined to finish what she started.
Everyone is after them, but the White Ghost isn’t going to back down this time. One thing Luca knows he may not be going to let Penny go this time, but he knows he doesn’t have to try to save her, he just wants to help her.
Luca lets Penny know all he wants to do it help her, she can come back if she just stops running, he will help her, but there a lot looking for her and wanting her dead, and it won’t be easy. Will Penny allow Luca’s to help and be her strength while she’s trying to get free from her past and restart her future.
Another amazing read by Bethany Kris.
Everyone is after them, but the White Ghost isn’t going to back down this time. One thing Luca knows he may not be going to let Penny go this time, but he knows he doesn’t have to try to save her, he just wants to help her.
Luca lets Penny know all he wants to do it help her, she can come back if she just stops running, he will help her, but there a lot looking for her and wanting her dead, and it won’t be easy. Will Penny allow Luca’s to help and be her strength while she’s trying to get free from her past and restart her future.
Another amazing read by Bethany Kris.
November 2, 2020
I have loved this trilogy so much the story of Penny and Luca had so much action and suspense that I was invested in them from book one. Penny is out on her own and although I was willing her to win this very personal mission I was worried for her. Luca was determined to hold onto her this time no matter the obstacles which may just be his own life. I loved the storyline over the three books and the way I was continually on the edge of my seat trying to anticipate what was going to happen. My only complaint is that it was over too soon and that ending chapter wasn't long enough to satisfy my love for these characters.
I haven't read a book by this author that hasn't thrilled me and kept me reading from start to finish. This is a series and author I would recommend in a heartbeat.
I haven't read a book by this author that hasn't thrilled me and kept me reading from start to finish. This is a series and author I would recommend in a heartbeat.
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