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The Fausti Family #5
War of Monsters
A Royal Organized Crime Romance
History books are written about why men go to war. Religion. Land. Oil. And the most dangerous reason of all—a woman, the kind worth risking your heart for. My wife, Scarlett Fausti, was that woman. She sparked a war amongst the world’s most dangerous men.
Enemies had attacked us from the inside, from the outside, thirsty for blood and ready to spill more for power. No one in our world could be trusted, except for a few. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.
My adversaries were ready to see me on my knees. Only one person could bring me there, though— that woman, my wife. But as it’s been said, all’s fair in love and war, and to keep her alive, to keep her safe, I’d willingly fall at the feet of monsters.
Book V in an eight-part Royal Organized Crime Romance saga.
** Previously released as The Beautiful Years V **
History books are written about why men go to war. Religion. Land. Oil. And the most dangerous reason of all—a woman, the kind worth risking your heart for. My wife, Scarlett Fausti, was that woman. She sparked a war amongst the world’s most dangerous men.
Enemies had attacked us from the inside, from the outside, thirsty for blood and ready to spill more for power. No one in our world could be trusted, except for a few. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.
My adversaries were ready to see me on my knees. Only one person could bring me there, though— that woman, my wife. But as it’s been said, all’s fair in love and war, and to keep her alive, to keep her safe, I’d willingly fall at the feet of monsters.
Book V in an eight-part Royal Organized Crime Romance saga.
** Previously released as The Beautiful Years V **
710 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 14, 2019
142 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
About the author
Annie Rose Welch
14 books692 followersBorn and raised in New Orleans, Annie has a habit of shortening her words and telling long stories. She speaks with a southern flair and cooks with it too. At the tender age of twenty- one, she hitched up her wagons (took her first plane ride) and moved out west to the big shake (California). Her passion for writing began one sleepless night when she imagined a gorgeous woman and a man with maniacal hair floating above her like lightning bugs falling from the sky. Curious about them, their story, and why they were floating around in her head, she sat down and penned (typed) her first novel, Marigny Street. A dream come true for her, she hasn’t stopped writing since. She loves a damn good love story, always has, no matter what the genre. She is particularly moved by imperfect love that in its own unique way is perfect, the notion of love at first sight, soul mates, and things that are generally out of the norm.
When she’s not writing she enjoys dabbling in photography and finding new, inspirational music to add to her collection. She currently resides in Texas (where everything really is bigger) with her husband, daughter, and their three peculiar dogs, Boudreaux, Tabasco, and Vanna Loo (who, call her crazy, bark with an accent).
For lagniappe (a little extra), a virtual cup of café au lait and beignets, please visit Annie’s website:
www.annierosewelch.com
When she’s not writing she enjoys dabbling in photography and finding new, inspirational music to add to her collection. She currently resides in Texas (where everything really is bigger) with her husband, daughter, and their three peculiar dogs, Boudreaux, Tabasco, and Vanna Loo (who, call her crazy, bark with an accent).
For lagniappe (a little extra), a virtual cup of café au lait and beignets, please visit Annie’s website:
www.annierosewelch.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 21, 2024
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.5
First Impressions
War of Monsters is the fifth book in the "Fausti Family" series and this is where we continue the epic saga of Dante and Scarlett. In this one, they have recovered mostly from a mutual loss, they are delving into some family drama and they are brought into a family conflict and an enemy that they won't be ready for. They will go on a journey of self doubt, growth, healing and learning what it means to fight for each other as a couple. And that sometimes it takes risks and putting burdens on each other as a side effect.
First Line
The thought of a woman could rouse a man during the final countdown when he's a second away from losing.
What I Loved
There were many aspects that I enjoyed in this one. The atmosphere and world building in this book was (at no shock to me or anyone that has read this series) to be utterly captivating. We are taken to Italy and Sicily and man I just felt like I was there, there is something so captivating about this author and how she just builds a story that gives you the best feels. We get to return to Brando and Scarlett and I just loved returning to them again. The plot was so action packed, there was so much going on with this one here. So you definitely need to buckle your seat belts because this author really builds the tension and thrills in a way that you have never seen before. The heart and feels is so in tune with this pair. You just FEEL so much for this couple and what they have to face and overcome and its pretty rough at times that is for sure!
What I Struggled With
I mostly struggled with the pacing in this one. First this book is a CHUNKER at 700 pages so it takes a while to get through and I didn't do my due diligence on that one so that is why this has been taking a week to read because I have just been reading a little bit each day. Then we have the pacing was a bit slow at times and I just wish it had been more fast paced at times.
Overall View
I found my heart and soul in this book....the author will bring you into a story that you will NOT be ready for ....so be ready for a wild ride of thrills and emotion!
Favorite Quote(s)
He was my place, and I felt lost without a map.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Romantic Suspense, Dark Romance
Character Types: Mafia, Ballerina (Dancer)
Themes: Married Couple Pairing, Tear Jerker, World Building A Focus
Tropes: Epic Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Nicole Fox
Meghan March
Serena Akeroyd
Song This Book Inspires
Lost You by Snoh Aalegra
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes You NEED to read these in order or the plot won't make sense
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
February 5, 2021
Omg this book is simply amazing. I’ve loved all the books in the Fausti Saga but this one has upped the game for sure! Things are getting more and more intense and action packed and I am loving every single moment.
Something I love that a lot of books are missing is the actual act of being together, doing every day things- the mundane even. I live for those moments and seeing how the couples interact. However, many romance reads are all drama and angst for most of the book, then they get together and boom- epilogue.
The Fausti Saga is different. It’s this beautiful and heartbreaking tale of a lifetime of love, trials, and tribulations. It is truly the story of Brando and Scarlett’s LIFE. The ups and downs, the tests and the rewards. Although their life is anything but mundane.
They truly have an absolutely beautiful life.
I swoon so freaking hard for Brando. He is everything a book hero should be. Such perfection.
I am enjoying these books so much. This series is such a mood. It’s like I’m living this story alongside the characters, like I’m really there. It’s unique and awesome. I can’t wait to read the next book!
Something I love that a lot of books are missing is the actual act of being together, doing every day things- the mundane even. I live for those moments and seeing how the couples interact. However, many romance reads are all drama and angst for most of the book, then they get together and boom- epilogue.
The Fausti Saga is different. It’s this beautiful and heartbreaking tale of a lifetime of love, trials, and tribulations. It is truly the story of Brando and Scarlett’s LIFE. The ups and downs, the tests and the rewards. Although their life is anything but mundane.
They truly have an absolutely beautiful life.
I swoon so freaking hard for Brando. He is everything a book hero should be. Such perfection.
I am enjoying these books so much. This series is such a mood. It’s like I’m living this story alongside the characters, like I’m really there. It’s unique and awesome. I can’t wait to read the next book!
February 10, 2021
It took me nearly 2 weeks to finish this book cuz hellooo 700 pages..sheesh..but within those 700 pages is a world that I wanna live and die in with my very own Brando Fausti...sigh!!! The Fausti brothers and their loved ones find themselves as targets this time around..they have trouble coming at them from all angles with not much help from the head of the Famiglia which is their uncle Lothario Fausti. I am dying for book 6 which is gonna take Brando and Scarlett to New York where she is going to the Principal dancer and finish out her career but they still have enemies to look out for and I can’t wait to see where all this is gonna lead.
August 9, 2020
I don't know what I am going to do until another Beautiful Years comes out and I just finished reading this one. I loved Brando because of the love he has for Scarlett. There are soulmates and then there are soulmates. Scarlett brings out the best in Brando and he brings out the best in her. This story was all that I knew it would be and then some. There are so many subplots within the main story of Brando and Scarlett. There is the story of Rocco, Brandon's brother and a couple of months younger than him. Lover of family and loyal to a fault. He was raised for the lifestyle that they lead unlike Brando but he accepts the hierarchy of the Italian mob family that the oldest son is the head of the family after the father is no longer able to be. Rocco can't help that his blood line is so that he is gorgeous just like his brother and a lover of women and food of course first all loyal to his brothers. Then their is Romeo the brother who looks the most like Brando and who is closest to his brother. Brando and him bonded in this part V of the saga and I just found him gorgeous, loving and loyal to family. He is the youngest of the brothers but don't get it twisted because he is lover man don't think he can't be ruthless if he has to. Then their is Dario and Carmen, he finally marries her and they go through life threatening trials which draws them closer to one another, they get married in this series. Then their is Donato and his wife,Chiara, he is gorgeous loving and loyal to his brothers. We cannot forget about Uncle and Doctor Tito and his wife Valentina. Everyone has a story in this series and of course they are still all together in Italy still. We can't forget about Scarlett's family her mother and father, Everett and her sister Charlotte. We meet new characters and their is a reunion of characters from one of the other series. I love this book. I could talk about it all day. Since I can't write the whole story in this review I would highly recommend this Part V of the Series Beautiful Years the Fausti Family be purchased and read, you will not regret it. This series has not disappointed. This part V was just as long as some of the parts of this series but I still can't get enough of it. Annie Rose Welch, I salute you for a story so compelling, amazing that I can see and feel the characters. Can't wait for the next story in this series.
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.
January 13, 2021
War of Monsters: A Royal Organized Crime Romance (The Fausti
Family #5)
Written by Bella Di Corte
With a title like this, what can go wrong? EVERYTHING
I didn’t learn this tidbit in this book, but I realized that reading a saga (and that is exactly what these books are), opens readers up to learning more in some parts of the saga than others.
War of Monsters, gives us more history on both families. Scarlett’s family learns so many things in this book, the most important, is they really had no idea who Maja really was and for that matter Pnina’s family background really was.
We garner more insight as to how good or not so good Lothario is at leading the famiglia. It’s a given and we are aware he feels threatened by Brando. Yet, we readers know that Brando will protect his beloved, even if it attacks come from within the family.
As the title prepares us, there will be War, but before War there will be battles and during those battles lives will be lost. With those lost lives will come grief and revenge.
There is already suspicion that there is a spy in their midst, but who and why? As the story builds we will find out and one we once cared for will earn our distrust.
I won’t tell you that the 700 plus pages can’t be read in a day, start early enough and you might be able to do it. This book however, packs many punches, things happen we don’t expect; we are blindsided with information as we weep for lives lost.
I’m ready for book six, New York City is next and with that more puzzle pieces will be exposed and we readers can’t wait for those pieces to make themselves known.
Bella Di Corte has truly given us Brando and Scarlett’s Beautiful Years so now we wait to see what will be added into their journal next.
Family #5)
Written by Bella Di Corte
With a title like this, what can go wrong? EVERYTHING
I didn’t learn this tidbit in this book, but I realized that reading a saga (and that is exactly what these books are), opens readers up to learning more in some parts of the saga than others.
War of Monsters, gives us more history on both families. Scarlett’s family learns so many things in this book, the most important, is they really had no idea who Maja really was and for that matter Pnina’s family background really was.
We garner more insight as to how good or not so good Lothario is at leading the famiglia. It’s a given and we are aware he feels threatened by Brando. Yet, we readers know that Brando will protect his beloved, even if it attacks come from within the family.
As the title prepares us, there will be War, but before War there will be battles and during those battles lives will be lost. With those lost lives will come grief and revenge.
There is already suspicion that there is a spy in their midst, but who and why? As the story builds we will find out and one we once cared for will earn our distrust.
I won’t tell you that the 700 plus pages can’t be read in a day, start early enough and you might be able to do it. This book however, packs many punches, things happen we don’t expect; we are blindsided with information as we weep for lives lost.
I’m ready for book six, New York City is next and with that more puzzle pieces will be exposed and we readers can’t wait for those pieces to make themselves known.
Bella Di Corte has truly given us Brando and Scarlett’s Beautiful Years so now we wait to see what will be added into their journal next.
November 22, 2019
Part V of Brando and Scarlett's journey is action packed and intense, leaving off with another beautiful ending, giving hope that someday these two might finally have some real peace. They go through a lot in this installment, the famiglia business isn't pretty you know. And the aftermath has our couple jockeying for who loves whom most, whose pride will win out, and who will bow first to the other.
I adore this series and fell even more in love with Brando and Scarlett Fausti. Can't wait for Part VI!
ARC via Buoni Amici Press for an honest review.
Review/Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
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August 20, 2021
*I received this book as a gift in exchange for my honest opinion.
O.M.GOODNESS!!!!! I just can't with this series you guys! Not only am I completely in love with each and every character, I LITERALLY dream about them!!!!
Where do I begin? There is just so many things that happen in this one. Still running from certain monsters, Scarlett and Brando find myself running from monsters they didn't even know were monsters (don't worry, you'll understand that one once you read the book). So here's my dilemma, SO much happens in this that I feel like I could totally give away a lot just by reviewing it. Let me try...
Scarlett and Brando's love for each other is like no other. Everyone not only knows it, they feel it. And now that Brando refuses to leave without Scarlett by his side, others are picking up on Scarlett's special "power", creating a new threat to not only them personally, but the war. So how do they keep themselves safe? Good question. Because it seems like no matter where they go, they're found.
Family will betray you at some point in la famiglia. Those you trusted, will betray you. Second guessing everything and everyone is the only way to survive. Never let your guard down and above all else........Never give up on those you love!!!!
O.M.GOODNESS!!!!! I just can't with this series you guys! Not only am I completely in love with each and every character, I LITERALLY dream about them!!!!
Where do I begin? There is just so many things that happen in this one. Still running from certain monsters, Scarlett and Brando find myself running from monsters they didn't even know were monsters (don't worry, you'll understand that one once you read the book). So here's my dilemma, SO much happens in this that I feel like I could totally give away a lot just by reviewing it. Let me try...
Scarlett and Brando's love for each other is like no other. Everyone not only knows it, they feel it. And now that Brando refuses to leave without Scarlett by his side, others are picking up on Scarlett's special "power", creating a new threat to not only them personally, but the war. So how do they keep themselves safe? Good question. Because it seems like no matter where they go, they're found.
Family will betray you at some point in la famiglia. Those you trusted, will betray you. Second guessing everything and everyone is the only way to survive. Never let your guard down and above all else........Never give up on those you love!!!!
June 30, 2021
For me, this is the best book of the series at this moment. Of course, I missed the ballet part but the mafia side of the things really turn this book into 5 stars. FINALLY, MAFIA ACTION.
I am pissed about the Lothario, who deserve to die painfully, situation and want Brando to claim his seat at the head of the Fausti family.
The baby part and grief for Matteo were heartbreaking still. They are only a couple who want to be happy and their best life.
The part where Scarlett fight her jealous sister had me screaming 'HALLELUJAH' cause it was late delivery and Charlotte deserve this. But Matteo's family and story with Maja was more to cause jealousy between Brando and Scarlett so for me or could be more explored or could be erased completed.
I am pissed about the Lothario, who deserve to die painfully, situation and want Brando to claim his seat at the head of the Fausti family.
The baby part and grief for Matteo were heartbreaking still. They are only a couple who want to be happy and their best life.
The part where Scarlett fight her jealous sister had me screaming 'HALLELUJAH' cause it was late delivery and Charlotte deserve this. But Matteo's family and story with Maja was more to cause jealousy between Brando and Scarlett so for me or could be more explored or could be erased completed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2021
I read this as paperback back in April and somehow forgot to track it here
June 22, 2021
This series just keeps getting better and better!
Have you ever read a book that seemed like it went on forever? I don't mean because it was boring; but rather the complete opposite....because there was so much going on, so much happening and you're not sure your heart can take much more! That is this book! With each book in this series, I think, 'it can't get anymore intense', and then the next one does! I'm not sure I'll survive the next 3 after this one. As the title claims, the war between the factions has escalated and lines within the Fausti famiglia have been drawn, putting Scarlett and Brando in some harrowing situations.
I am not usually a fan of series...particularly when all the books deal with the same H and h. In most of those types of series, there's just a lot of break-ups and getting back together for stupid reasons, only to add needless angst and extend the story, when the story could have been told in one or two books at most. So here I am reading an 8 book series about Brando Piero Fausti and Scarlett Rose Fausti and loving every minute of it. Why you ask? Because this series works for the following reasons.
First, there are so many players...allies, antagonists and protagonists...in this story; not just to Brando and Scarlett, or between the factions, but also from within each faction. (We are dealing with several crime syndicates...the French, the Italians (which include the reigning Fausti famiglia and the Sanguisughe, Italians who want the Fausti power, money and control) and even a Russian assassin.) Within the factions there are subfactions (the ones in control and their supporters and the ones who want control. Alliances are formed and broken. There are doublecrosses and spies within. There is greed for money, power and control at play from within as well as without. All of this makes the events that occur in this book believable. It forms a cohesive story that just works.
Second, the characters are written so well they have come to life. The become your family, your friends and your enemies. You become so invested in them that you feel every emotion to the core ... the danger, the fear, the desparation, the hurt, the hate, the anger, the joy, and always, always, the all-consuming love between Brando and Scarlett, even when they are angry with each other. Both are willing to die to save the other, yet neither is capable of living with out the other.
Finally, while there are several hair-raising events in each book (this one has some doozies), the events are resolved at the end of each book so no major cliff hangers. The difference is that the back-story, the plotting and scheming of their enemies is still ongoing, they are still out there so you know more is still to come and Brando and Scarlett are not yet free of that life. Will they stay and Brando reign or will they finally be able to walk away and be free of it? That is what keeps you reading.
I have never read a romance series (especially one this long) that has so captivated me and just won't let go! I was up till after 4:00 in the morning finishing this one....it was well worth it. Thank God I'm retired and don't have to get up and go to work in the morning! Can't wait to see what happens next!
Have you ever read a book that seemed like it went on forever? I don't mean because it was boring; but rather the complete opposite....because there was so much going on, so much happening and you're not sure your heart can take much more! That is this book! With each book in this series, I think, 'it can't get anymore intense', and then the next one does! I'm not sure I'll survive the next 3 after this one. As the title claims, the war between the factions has escalated and lines within the Fausti famiglia have been drawn, putting Scarlett and Brando in some harrowing situations.
I am not usually a fan of series...particularly when all the books deal with the same H and h. In most of those types of series, there's just a lot of break-ups and getting back together for stupid reasons, only to add needless angst and extend the story, when the story could have been told in one or two books at most. So here I am reading an 8 book series about Brando Piero Fausti and Scarlett Rose Fausti and loving every minute of it. Why you ask? Because this series works for the following reasons.
First, there are so many players...allies, antagonists and protagonists...in this story; not just to Brando and Scarlett, or between the factions, but also from within each faction. (We are dealing with several crime syndicates...the French, the Italians (which include the reigning Fausti famiglia and the Sanguisughe, Italians who want the Fausti power, money and control) and even a Russian assassin.) Within the factions there are subfactions (the ones in control and their supporters and the ones who want control. Alliances are formed and broken. There are doublecrosses and spies within. There is greed for money, power and control at play from within as well as without. All of this makes the events that occur in this book believable. It forms a cohesive story that just works.
Second, the characters are written so well they have come to life. The become your family, your friends and your enemies. You become so invested in them that you feel every emotion to the core ... the danger, the fear, the desparation, the hurt, the hate, the anger, the joy, and always, always, the all-consuming love between Brando and Scarlett, even when they are angry with each other. Both are willing to die to save the other, yet neither is capable of living with out the other.
Finally, while there are several hair-raising events in each book (this one has some doozies), the events are resolved at the end of each book so no major cliff hangers. The difference is that the back-story, the plotting and scheming of their enemies is still ongoing, they are still out there so you know more is still to come and Brando and Scarlett are not yet free of that life. Will they stay and Brando reign or will they finally be able to walk away and be free of it? That is what keeps you reading.
I have never read a romance series (especially one this long) that has so captivated me and just won't let go! I was up till after 4:00 in the morning finishing this one....it was well worth it. Thank God I'm retired and don't have to get up and go to work in the morning! Can't wait to see what happens next!
October 16, 2021
This freaking book! First, I can't believe it was 700 pages because I devoured it in a week (that's fast for me haha). The tempo that this author set for this book was just right. After the high angst from the previous book, I thought maybe this author would take it easy on us, but nope, with a title like War of Monsters I should have known it would put another strangle-hold on my heart.
The whole gang is back, living and thriving in Italy, and Brando and Scarlett are unwillingly becoming more and more embedded into the mafia famiglia. There's an influx of new characters and I'm thankful that this author has a character list at the beginning of every book.
Brando and Scarlett truly love the life they're living in Italy, and the found-family vibe that they have going on at their villa is it's own kind of beautiful because you know those Fausti brothers have found what been missing since Brando entered the picture and vice versa.
In this book, allegiances get tested, allies becomes foes, and our two loves must persevere through the biggest test of their relationship and special connection.
I love love loved it, and I'm so excited with where this author is taking the story! New York baby!
The whole gang is back, living and thriving in Italy, and Brando and Scarlett are unwillingly becoming more and more embedded into the mafia famiglia. There's an influx of new characters and I'm thankful that this author has a character list at the beginning of every book.
Brando and Scarlett truly love the life they're living in Italy, and the found-family vibe that they have going on at their villa is it's own kind of beautiful because you know those Fausti brothers have found what been missing since Brando entered the picture and vice versa.
In this book, allegiances get tested, allies becomes foes, and our two loves must persevere through the biggest test of their relationship and special connection.
I love love loved it, and I'm so excited with where this author is taking the story! New York baby!
December 21, 2019
Another beautiful installment of The Beautiful Years! This is a very engaging story! I fell more in love with Brando and Scarlett; so many layers to each of them. They are truly soulmates! There is a lot going on in this book and I am looking forward to the continuation of this story. There are so many great subplots with the other characters in this story as well!
One of the best things about this author is how beautifully descriptive her stories are! She writes in a manner that easily transports you to the scene!
Despite the unease, I danced with my husband underneath a heaven filled with stars, lemon and roses perfuming the air, perhaps a hint of Chianti, those ghosts of grapes long past, an undertone to their stronger counterparts, the air thick with love and heat and this magical violinist serenading us with the song of his heart."
We settled into quiet, though the villa around us was live with noise. Laughter. Whirling of the wind from outside. The susurrus of the lace curtains fluttering in time to the gusts. Mitch's lingering music selection serenading us under a marbled heaven that sparkled with stars. Walls yawned. Floors stretched.
I would most heartedly recommend this series. Every books seems better and better than the last. Start with The Beautiful Years Book I! You will not be disappointed!
One of the best things about this author is how beautifully descriptive her stories are! She writes in a manner that easily transports you to the scene!
Despite the unease, I danced with my husband underneath a heaven filled with stars, lemon and roses perfuming the air, perhaps a hint of Chianti, those ghosts of grapes long past, an undertone to their stronger counterparts, the air thick with love and heat and this magical violinist serenading us with the song of his heart."
We settled into quiet, though the villa around us was live with noise. Laughter. Whirling of the wind from outside. The susurrus of the lace curtains fluttering in time to the gusts. Mitch's lingering music selection serenading us under a marbled heaven that sparkled with stars. Walls yawned. Floors stretched.
I would most heartedly recommend this series. Every books seems better and better than the last. Start with The Beautiful Years Book I! You will not be disappointed!
November 14, 2021
At the conclusion of the last book, I had a lot of hope that book 5 will bring Brando closer to his brothers. Yes we finally get Brando bonding with his brothers and, not only this, we see Scarlett’s relationship grow with the Fausti brothers and family members.
With new bonds and family dynamics taking root, there’s still traitors in their midst. The twisted grip Nemours has on Scarlett and Brando starts to shift with every betrayal and the rise of other vicious monsters.
I’ll never think of a lifetime Brando and Scarlett are never together. In this book, we experience their depth of love and devotion. There are many moments, as a reader, where all you can do is scream. War of Monsters is unlike the previous books! You need to prepare yourself for heartbreak and deceit.
.
At about 800-pages this book took me the longest to read, 7 days. I savored this book compared to the rest. But I am so excited to start book 6, Ruler of Hearts. Y’all we only have 2 books left in the series! I’m not ready for the saga of Brando and Scarlett to end.
With new bonds and family dynamics taking root, there’s still traitors in their midst. The twisted grip Nemours has on Scarlett and Brando starts to shift with every betrayal and the rise of other vicious monsters.
I’ll never think of a lifetime Brando and Scarlett are never together. In this book, we experience their depth of love and devotion. There are many moments, as a reader, where all you can do is scream. War of Monsters is unlike the previous books! You need to prepare yourself for heartbreak and deceit.
.
At about 800-pages this book took me the longest to read, 7 days. I savored this book compared to the rest. But I am so excited to start book 6, Ruler of Hearts. Y’all we only have 2 books left in the series! I’m not ready for the saga of Brando and Scarlett to end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2020
5.0 out of 5 stars My Favorite couple Brando and Scarlett.....Ballerina Girl and Handsome Italian....Just Loved it.
Reviewed in the United States on November 21, 2019
Verified Purchase
I don't know what I am going to do until another Beautiful Years comes out and I just finished reading this one. I loved Brando because of the love he has for Scarlett. Their is soulmates and then their are soulmates. Scarlett brings out the best in Brando and he brings out the best in her. This story was all that I knew it would be and then some. Their is so many subplots within the main story of Brando and Scarlett. Their is the story of Rocco, Brandon's brother and a couple of months younger than him. Lover of family and loyal to a fault. He was raised for the lifestyle that they lead unlike Brando but he accepts the hierarchy of the Italian mob family that the oldest son is the head of the family after the father is no longer able to be. Rocco can't help that his blood line is so that he is gorgeous just like his brother and a lover of women and food of course first all loyal to his brothers. Then their is Romeo the brother who looks the most like Brando and who is closest to his brother. Brando and him bonded in this part V of the saga and I just found him gorgeous, loving and loyal to family. He is the youngest of the brothers but don't get it twisted because he is lover man don;t think he can't be ruthless if he has to. Then their is Dario and Carmen, he finally marries her and they go through life threatening trials which draws them closer to one another, they get married in this series. Then their is Donato and his wife,Chiara, he is gorgeous loving and loyal to his brothers. We cannot forget about Uncle and Doctor Tito and his wife Valentina. Everyone has a story in this series and of course they are still all together in Italy still. We can't forget about Scarlett's family her mother and father, Everett and her sister Charlotte. We meet new characters and their is a reunion of characters from one of the other series. I love this book. I could talk about it all day. Since I can't write the whole story in this review I would highly recommend this Part V of the Series Beautiful Years the Fautusi Family be purchased and read, you will not regret it. This series has not disappointed. This part V was just as long as some of the parts of this series but I still can't get enough of it. Annie Rose Welch, I salute you for a story so compelling, amazing that I can see and feel the characters. Can't wait for the next story in this series. Even though I received an ARC copy of this book I still purchased it on my Amazon Kindle because I want to sow into her life because I love her books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Reviewed in the United States on November 21, 2019
Verified Purchase
I don't know what I am going to do until another Beautiful Years comes out and I just finished reading this one. I loved Brando because of the love he has for Scarlett. Their is soulmates and then their are soulmates. Scarlett brings out the best in Brando and he brings out the best in her. This story was all that I knew it would be and then some. Their is so many subplots within the main story of Brando and Scarlett. Their is the story of Rocco, Brandon's brother and a couple of months younger than him. Lover of family and loyal to a fault. He was raised for the lifestyle that they lead unlike Brando but he accepts the hierarchy of the Italian mob family that the oldest son is the head of the family after the father is no longer able to be. Rocco can't help that his blood line is so that he is gorgeous just like his brother and a lover of women and food of course first all loyal to his brothers. Then their is Romeo the brother who looks the most like Brando and who is closest to his brother. Brando and him bonded in this part V of the saga and I just found him gorgeous, loving and loyal to family. He is the youngest of the brothers but don't get it twisted because he is lover man don;t think he can't be ruthless if he has to. Then their is Dario and Carmen, he finally marries her and they go through life threatening trials which draws them closer to one another, they get married in this series. Then their is Donato and his wife,Chiara, he is gorgeous loving and loyal to his brothers. We cannot forget about Uncle and Doctor Tito and his wife Valentina. Everyone has a story in this series and of course they are still all together in Italy still. We can't forget about Scarlett's family her mother and father, Everett and her sister Charlotte. We meet new characters and their is a reunion of characters from one of the other series. I love this book. I could talk about it all day. Since I can't write the whole story in this review I would highly recommend this Part V of the Series Beautiful Years the Fautusi Family be purchased and read, you will not regret it. This series has not disappointed. This part V was just as long as some of the parts of this series but I still can't get enough of it. Annie Rose Welch, I salute you for a story so compelling, amazing that I can see and feel the characters. Can't wait for the next story in this series. Even though I received an ARC copy of this book I still purchased it on my Amazon Kindle because I want to sow into her life because I love her books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 29, 2020
War Monsters were broken into Four Parts. It is so awesome to see the development of these two soul mates. I don't know what you can call Brando and Scarlett if their is word to describe that they are more than soul mates. When someone is in your blood that when they are hurting you know. You know what they are thinking before they say it out loud often times you don't even have to say things out loud because they look at one another and know. I hated that Scarlett has to go through so much but that is the point of this series. That even though she didn't know she had signed up for the mafia connection part of Brando's life she is totally in love with him. When you have loved someone since you were 16 and maybe before and that you are that rib that they Lord says in the bible he took to create a help mate for man. That is who Brando and Scarlett are. Women hate her because of who she is, aka Ballerina Girl and men love her for just that reason, she is grace and beauty in motion that few people can attain to. Women love Brando but it doesn't matter what they want from Brando, his heart has been given to his one and only love Scarlett, long time ago. Their is no sharing, with family or friends. His brother Rocco has a marriage where he doesn't mind sharing because he is not satisfied just with Rosario or she is not just satisfied with him but that is not what Brando and Scarlett can or will allow in their relationship. He even asks his brother Romeo who is a younger version of Brando, who looks and acts most like him, to take care of Scarlett if something were to happen to him. So this story takes us through the many wars that are thrust upon them one of his brothers hurt and and losing Fausti family members. There is a wedding that takes place in this book which leaves Romeo as the only brother not married and then their is Donato the cousin who marries finally in this book. It really was a power packed Book but all of her books about the Fausti Family Saga are because there is so much drama going on with a Royal Mafia Family from Italy and on the other Hand with their wealth comes the Mafia family side of the family, The head of the Family Marizo is gone and that leaves the brothers and the strongest one Luca, Lucious Leonne Fausti, the Lion the strongest of all the brothers but he is in prison in America in New Orleans for killing a young woman and her unborn child. He did not mean to but when you drive drunk and angry things happen. But he is paying his time. I am actually wondering if somehow Luca will eventually get out of prison in one of these three books that are left of this tale. Books 6-8 ought to be even more awesome, because their is still so much more to tell. What will happen with Romeo. How and where will Brando and Scarlett end up living? What will happen with Ettore, Brando's Uncle who was next in line to head the family until in his attempt to kill Brando, killed his father instead. Then their is Lothario who has assumed power because Luca is in prison and Ettore is on the run and he cannot act without permission from his brother. This is a beautiful powerful family that is made up of beautiful women and gorgeous men who are educated and strong and have the family values of the old school Italian family. I just love it can't you tell. Even though I read the beautiful years I was able to read this series and get a fresh perspective on the Fausti Family. This story is so well written and I would encourage you to buy the whole series.
March 2, 2022
War Monsters were broken into Four Parts. It is so awesome to see the development of these two soul mates. I don't know what you can call Brando and Scarlett if their is word to describe that they are more than soul mates. When someone is in your blood that when they are hurting you know. You know what they are thinking before they say it out loud often times you don't even have to say things out loud because they look at one another and know. I hated that Scarlett has to go through so much but that is the point of this series. That even though she didn't know she had signed up for the mafia connection part of Brando's life she is totally in love with him. When you have loved someone since you were 16 and maybe before and that you are that rib that they Lord says in the bible he took to create a help mate for man. That is who Brando and Scarlett are. Women hate her because of who she is, aka Ballerina Girl and men love her for just that reason, she is grace and beauty in motion that few people can attain to. Women love Brando but it doesn't matter what they want from Brando, his heart has been given to his one and only love Scarlett, long time ago. Their is no sharing, with family or friends. His brother Rocco has a marriage where he doesn't mind sharing because he is not satisfied just with Rosario or she is not just satisfied with him but that is not what Brando and Scarlett can or will allow in their relationship. He even asks his brother Romeo who is a younger version of Brando, who looks and acts most like him, to take care of Scarlett if something were to happen to him. So this story takes us through the many wars that are thrust upon them one of his brothers hurt and and losing Fausti family members. There is a wedding that takes place in this book which leaves Romeo as the only brother not married and then their is Donato the cousin who marries finally in this book. It really was a power packed Book but all of her books about the Fausti Family Saga are because there is so much drama going on with a Royal Mafia Family from Italy and on the other Hand with their wealth comes the Mafia family side of the family, The head of the Family Marizo is gone and that leaves the brothers and the strongest one Luca, Lucious Leonne Fausti, the Lion the strongest of all the brothers but he is in prison in America in New Orleans for killing a young woman and her unborn child. He did not mean to but when you drive drunk and angry things happen. But he is paying his time. I am actually wondering if somehow Luca will eventually get out of prison in one of these three books that are left of this tale. Books 6-8 ought to be even more awesome, because their is still so much more to tell. What will happen with Romeo. How and where will Brando and Scarlett end up living? What will happen with Ettore, Brando's Uncle who was next in line to head the family until in his attempt to kill Brando, killed his father instead. Then their is Lothario who has assumed power because Luca is in prison and Ettore is on the run and he cannot act without permission from his brother. This is a beautiful powerful family that is made up of beautiful women and gorgeous men who are educated and strong and have the family values of the old school Italian family. I just love it can't you tell. Even though I read the beautiful years I was able to read this series and get a fresh perspective on the Fausti Family. This story is so well written and I would encourage you to buy the whole series.
July 1, 2022
Bella Di Corte writes a stunning saga with The Fausti Family. There are memories being made between the dangerous moments. There is enough time that fills my heart up between violence. I am never distracted by the family, the family enriches the story. The author writes vividly, its so pleasing to our senses. And when it’s Scarlett and Brando, everything feels like candlelight, it feels like warmth, and love, and sometimes red, because they burn so much for one another. Those around them want what they have, because truly there is no love like their’s.
I feel so much, it’s like getting haunted by something beautiful. I welcome it, I want to feel it all. I mourn when it’s the end. When I finished War of Monsters I feel at a lost, because I long for Brando and his Ballerina Girl. It’s book 5 and I have to keep going, and yet I am still longing like they are, for the couple on Snow. Their house and where their dreams were made, to when Brando sees Scarlett dancing from the window. They make me take pause! Because their love is like no other that I have read !!!!
There is no doubt about how loyal Brando is to Scarlett. In this story you will see him cross the line for her, sacrifice and kill. The scenes felt like a movie. Betrayal is running rapid and yet, they have their own arsenal. Combine that with frying cannoli, and the females having to hide on a farm, its both light and dark and fucking fantastic!!!
Luca and his aurora is so loud !! I need !!!
“I can slit your throat faster than they can pull a trigger. I won’t be the only monster to die in this room.”
I place a kiss over her heart, leaving my mouth there to feel the echoes of her life that beat in time to mine.
“You’re ready,” she whispered. “I am too. Voglio sbiadirti dentro di te.” “I want to fade into you.”
“You are my wife. My life. My family. My flesh, blood, and bone. My world. My heaven when we’re together and my hell when we’re apart.”
Scarlett the empath and Brando the lion. I can’t wait to cherish the next book.
I feel so much, it’s like getting haunted by something beautiful. I welcome it, I want to feel it all. I mourn when it’s the end. When I finished War of Monsters I feel at a lost, because I long for Brando and his Ballerina Girl. It’s book 5 and I have to keep going, and yet I am still longing like they are, for the couple on Snow. Their house and where their dreams were made, to when Brando sees Scarlett dancing from the window. They make me take pause! Because their love is like no other that I have read !!!!
There is no doubt about how loyal Brando is to Scarlett. In this story you will see him cross the line for her, sacrifice and kill. The scenes felt like a movie. Betrayal is running rapid and yet, they have their own arsenal. Combine that with frying cannoli, and the females having to hide on a farm, its both light and dark and fucking fantastic!!!
Luca and his aurora is so loud !! I need !!!
“I can slit your throat faster than they can pull a trigger. I won’t be the only monster to die in this room.”
I place a kiss over her heart, leaving my mouth there to feel the echoes of her life that beat in time to mine.
“You’re ready,” she whispered. “I am too. Voglio sbiadirti dentro di te.” “I want to fade into you.”
“You are my wife. My life. My family. My flesh, blood, and bone. My world. My heaven when we’re together and my hell when we’re apart.”
Scarlett the empath and Brando the lion. I can’t wait to cherish the next book.
January 29, 2021
Corrupted Wars
While continuing to delve more deeply into Scarlett and Brando's relationship and intertwined feelings, it branches out into all the sub characters. Well, not truly being in the sub characters POV, almost every paragraph is linking them and their lives and what is going on in their world vice Scarlett and Brando's.
This one leans heavily on Scarlett's empath ability, tending towards being a spiritual and superstitious read throughout.
A lot is going on and seems to finally be more of a corruption of the kingdom than the prior books title, however this was definitely about war between monsters. All the books so far have been long reads, this is one lengthy book! 799 pages and is broken up into different parts.
I gotta say though... Bad luck looms over Scarlett like a dark cloud. Wow! When in comparison to the other books in the series, this one actually ends with a HEA but still a cliffhanger
While continuing to delve more deeply into Scarlett and Brando's relationship and intertwined feelings, it branches out into all the sub characters. Well, not truly being in the sub characters POV, almost every paragraph is linking them and their lives and what is going on in their world vice Scarlett and Brando's.
This one leans heavily on Scarlett's empath ability, tending towards being a spiritual and superstitious read throughout.
A lot is going on and seems to finally be more of a corruption of the kingdom than the prior books title, however this was definitely about war between monsters. All the books so far have been long reads, this is one lengthy book! 799 pages and is broken up into different parts.
I gotta say though... Bad luck looms over Scarlett like a dark cloud. Wow! When in comparison to the other books in the series, this one actually ends with a HEA but still a cliffhanger
February 7, 2023
War of Monsters is the fifth installment in The Fausti Family series. It takes place primarily in Italy following Brando and Scarlett as they grow into their new-found family of the Fausti "Royal Crime" Family. There is of course lots of drama between the couple, but honestly, this is more action based, in opposition to the past couple of books where they were more character-based. I really enjoyed that because this book is approx. 600 pages so I needed some action to keep my interest, especially since this took me about a month to read (I started a new college semester so I haven't had a ton of free time).
Brando is still the perfect man, caring and loving, but only hard and protective. I love seeing him and his brothers interact, you can tell they all care and love each other even though Brando only met them recently.
I can't wait to dive into the next book and read what Bella Di Corte has in store for Brando and Scarlett as they are in New York City.
Brando is still the perfect man, caring and loving, but only hard and protective. I love seeing him and his brothers interact, you can tell they all care and love each other even though Brando only met them recently.
I can't wait to dive into the next book and read what Bella Di Corte has in store for Brando and Scarlett as they are in New York City.
February 7, 2021
I love this series on the Fausti family. I’m there with them in whatever beautiful home/castle/cottage and country they are in, I’ve even been in the trunk of a car with Scarlett and ready to slit the crazy female doctor’s throat with my shoe blades. Brando and Scarlett are real people in a not normal circumstance regarding the family’s business and dangers from the creeps trying to lasso the magic of Scarlett’s dancing. They stay true to their relationship through all the danger and hurts. I find myself learning the Italian language as they speak. I’ve laughed, cried, gasped, shouted and swooned. Their famiglia is my famiglia. In the book anyway. Bella Di Corte is an amazing writer and I am now one of her biggest fans. I’m ready for the next book in the series and hope to learn more of Rocco and the other brothers’ relationships as well.
March 12, 2024
Speachless
Spoiler***
I loved that this book showed not only how strong Scarlett has become and her gift elevated but how strong Brando used to be in his conviction to save his wife and be her man.
True that Scarlett doesn’t always listen, but she is strong willed and hard headed. I don’t think that Brando would like her to be completely submissive. Same for Brando- his pride almost gets him killed and he is fine with that thought. But he doesn’t really understand that with his death, he would take Scarlett with him. She wants only to be by his side in life and death.
I truly enjoyed this book and the series so far. Definitely a recommend but only if you read it in order.
Spoiler***
I loved that this book showed not only how strong Scarlett has become and her gift elevated but how strong Brando used to be in his conviction to save his wife and be her man.
True that Scarlett doesn’t always listen, but she is strong willed and hard headed. I don’t think that Brando would like her to be completely submissive. Same for Brando- his pride almost gets him killed and he is fine with that thought. But he doesn’t really understand that with his death, he would take Scarlett with him. She wants only to be by his side in life and death.
I truly enjoyed this book and the series so far. Definitely a recommend but only if you read it in order.
August 17, 2020
Beautiful love story!!
What an amazing series!! These books have everything you can ask for, off the charts, soul deep love, heart pounding action, lies, betrayals, humor.... simply amazing!! The connection between brando and scarlett is so alive and beautiful!! Wonderful story telling..... totally worth the read!! Although my favorite scene comes from a few books back.... when maggie beautiful wrecks and the old man she borrowed the car with sits his hair on fire hahahaha 😂 hilarious!!! Just LOVED THIS SERIES!!!
What an amazing series!! These books have everything you can ask for, off the charts, soul deep love, heart pounding action, lies, betrayals, humor.... simply amazing!! The connection between brando and scarlett is so alive and beautiful!! Wonderful story telling..... totally worth the read!! Although my favorite scene comes from a few books back.... when maggie beautiful wrecks and the old man she borrowed the car with sits his hair on fire hahahaha 😂 hilarious!!! Just LOVED THIS SERIES!!!
November 6, 2021
The book is breathtaking. I am at a loss for words of what to say. It left me breathless. So much happened and I felt so many emotions while reading it. The connection between Brando and Scarlett is stronger than ever. I really love the struggles that they faced because it just strengthed their bond and the issues that they had within their marriage felt realistic. This book had a lot more mafia elements than the previous books and I really enjoyed it. Bella Di Corte is just a phenomenal writer.
March 3, 2021
This is the 5th book in the series and I do recommend reading them in order. Scarlett and Brando’s story continues. The Fausti family is in danger and have little help. Scarlett is watching her back as she is dancing in New York before she retires. Can Brando keep her safe? Fast-paced read with loads of drama, suspense and the characters have lots of depth. The chemistry is steamy and the story has lots of twists and turns that keep you glued to your e-reader. I really liked it.
September 25, 2021
Tumultuous and heart stoppingly emotional journey
This is my second time through this series, obviously, it was good enough the first time. It's even better the second time around a year or more later.
I think Scarlett does most of her growth and self discovery in this book. Their relationship is put to the test, as always, marriage is hard work for both. But such a beautiful love story. I'm looking forward to reading book 6 again, then the last two books for the first time.
This is my second time through this series, obviously, it was good enough the first time. It's even better the second time around a year or more later.
I think Scarlett does most of her growth and self discovery in this book. Their relationship is put to the test, as always, marriage is hard work for both. But such a beautiful love story. I'm looking forward to reading book 6 again, then the last two books for the first time.
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August 29, 2020This is my first series by Annie Rose Welch and I was pleasantly surprised with this great read. Very detailed and keeps your attention. I am looking forward to the next books. I found these when Machiavillian came across my feed on Amazon and am so glad it did. Moving to the Saving Angels series next..
January 29, 2021
My heart is a puddle of goo. I am so in love with Brando. His dependency on Scarlett for his happiness, his heartbeat, his sanity. He is sexy, deep, and so beautiful. I envision a world filled with his brothers, cousins, family. Mamma Mia. I swear my heart is in my mouth as I read this amazing series, and I am anxiously waiting for more.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book.
March 8, 2021
Every single book in this series i have absolutely loved! I think this was the best yet. Brando and Scarlett are what we all aspire to be, they are not just soul mates, they are so much more.
Each read is getting more and more intense, full of action, and just trying to read so fast to get to the next page to see what happens. I can't wait for more of these two.
Each read is getting more and more intense, full of action, and just trying to read so fast to get to the next page to see what happens. I can't wait for more of these two.
December 20, 2020
A thrilling story that kind of feels like a punch in the gut but then quickly turns into a satisfying enjoyment it's oddly unique and gratifying
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.
July 3, 2020
Hands down addicted to this series. I can’t wait for the next book!!
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