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The Fausti Family #6
Ruler of Hearts
After the war that almost took my husband from me, life felt settled—as settled as it could be when you belonged to the infamous Fausti famiglia .
Enemies retreated, and the life we created in New York seemed to be moving us in the right direction. Until things took an unexpected turn. When my husband denied his father’s offer to rule the Fausti kingdom, the monsters came out of hiding, and unexpected circumstances led us home to the small town where it had all begun for us.
When we arrived, we found that everything we had left behind had waited for us to return, and new challenges showed up uninvited. Home might have been where the heart was, but life would never be the same.
Book VI in an eight-part Royal Organized Crime Romance saga.
Enemies retreated, and the life we created in New York seemed to be moving us in the right direction. Until things took an unexpected turn. When my husband denied his father’s offer to rule the Fausti kingdom, the monsters came out of hiding, and unexpected circumstances led us home to the small town where it had all begun for us.
When we arrived, we found that everything we had left behind had waited for us to return, and new challenges showed up uninvited. Home might have been where the heart was, but life would never be the same.
Book VI in an eight-part Royal Organized Crime Romance saga.
810 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 16, 2021
67 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
About the author
Bella Di Corte
32 books1,004 followersBella Di Corte writes criminal romance that will steal your heart. She brings to life stories of men who walk the line between irredeemable and savable, and the women who force them to feel. She’s known for her rich world building and strong characters. She’s also an International Bestselling Author.
Apart from writing, Bella loves to spend time with her husband, daughter, family, and four dogs. She also loves to read, listen to music, cook recipes that were passed down to her, and take photographs.
Bella was born and raised in New Orleans, a place she considers a creative playground.
Apart from writing, Bella loves to spend time with her husband, daughter, family, and four dogs. She also loves to read, listen to music, cook recipes that were passed down to her, and take photographs.
Bella was born and raised in New Orleans, a place she considers a creative playground.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 30, 2025
This review WILL 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: ✨✨✨✨✨
“There’s no saving you now. No one can stand against me. I’m too formidable. And you’re all mine. Tutto mio. Forever.”
First Impressions
Ruler of Hearts is the 6th installment in the Fausti family saga and this is a very LONG book haha It did take a while to fully get into the story. It does have moments where it drags at times but once it hits....it will hit you HARD!!! I absolutely adored it deeply. There is something beautiful in how this couple grows together. And this is WHY I love epic saga pairings. And this is the first time I have seen it in a dark romance. Although I don't really consider these books "Dark Romance" it feels closer to contemporary romance with dark elements to it, if that makes sense. I think if you like edgier romantic suspense with mafia family aspects, then this saga is definitely for you. And from what I know most of her books are all connected to each other, so this series you do want to read first.
She came forward and rested her forehead against my chest. “My skull shields my brain. My backbone protects my spine. Your rib shelters my heart,” she said in Italian. “Behind your bones, your strength, I find a place to rest.”
First Line
It was so quiet in our refurbished brownstone in Brooklyn, in the Park Slope Historic District, that I could hear the snow swirling outside of our picture window, a million susurrations floating around in then night.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Brando
The Heroine: Scarlett
“Despite it all and nothing, mio marito, I love you so much it hurts to breathe sometimes. Out of all I’ve done in my life, out of all of the accomplishments and accolades, the best thing I’ve ever done—the best thing I am—is being your wife, Brando Piero Fausti.”
Summary
Brando and Scarlett have settled in their home in New York City, after having to flee from Italy and having two enemies that could cause problems for them. Brando turned down his father's offer to take over the family business, but he knows that won't be the end of things and once Luca is out of prison....things will heat up but for now he wants to take this time with Scarlett and build their life in the states. Brando and Scarlett will have to face up to some demons, some monsters hiding tracking them and their relationship will be challenged in ways that they don't expect....and some uunexpected surprises along the way that will either break their relationship or fortify it even stronger...
“Roses are classic. Romantic. A reminder that all beauty comes with a price—their thorns can make you bleed.”
What I Loved
This pairing of Brando and Scarlett are simply perfection in so many ways. They are truly magic together especially when they decide to actually talk to each other and work out issues as a team...that is where their connection shows such deep layers and seeing the intimacy between grow stronger and more concrete with each challenge is what really makes this series "chefs kiss" good. In Ruler of Hearts, our couple is facing some things. Now much of this book is just seeing them living their lives. Scarlett is dancing still and there are some problems with them. Scarlett is exhausted from her career, Brando is jealous of her dancing partner and they are getting much media attention from it. Brando wants to be supportive but he is also seeing the strain it is putting on her and on their relationship.
matter what I do—you need to remember too. You are mine. Death can’t even take that away from me. Those words are mine. I’ve claimed them since that night in the snow. All mine. You alone. Even if you don’t remember, Scarlett Fausti, I do.
But there is also other aspects that is causing strain. Brando can't get over not having kids, he has issues from his childhood that is causing him to doubt and have reservations and its hurting Scarlett because she wants children more than anything but she won't deceive him into it, she wants him by her side and she is trying to accept that children may never be in her life with him. But what happens when fears come alive for Brando....will he stand by Scarlett's side or break completely? Well you will find out. But I will say the third act was just right. We really see how Brando has to face his fears and that Scarlett is HIS wife and you see how his literal soul gets pushed to the limits....but he comes out in the end being the true hero we know him to be. And the moment when he holds his little girl for the first time and truly accepts being a father??? I BROKE!!!! Literally. It was worth all the angst and conflicts building in this book to see him see the true joy of having a child and how that changes you for the better. Bella Di Corte hit this book hard. And while there were elements that I wish was done a bit differently, I was more than thrilled to be along for the ride. But now I am terrified for book 7.....because Luca will be fully on the scene and I just know it will have me on the edge of my seat.
Men could be as strong as iron, but when it came to a woman’s love and comfort, there was nothing in this world stronger—and I dared anyone to tell me otherwise. It could heal when nothing else was able to. It could hold back the forces of death long enough to see the man through to the other side. It was the antidote to all sickness, and the relief in all circumstances. It could make a man smile when he had nothing or everything to lose. I was my wife’s armor in this life, but she was the strength of my heart.
What I Struggled With
The only thing I am not a big fan of is all this inner angst when they have been together for years. Now we see great character growth in the conflicts that they have together, but some things like jealousy and not working out issues with honest communication, should NOT be a problem with how long they have been together. It was how the conflicts was written in this book that kept it from being a 6 star read.
I never believed in magic until I saw you dancing, my wife. I never believed in love until you touched my hand, my wife. I never believed in transcendence until I made love to you, my wife. I never believed in forever, until you became my wife.
Overall View
Ruler of Hearts is a epic saga tale that digs deep into the heartbreak of the soul, the battle that wages from within, it reflects the true facets of the human condition, of fighting to heal and to embrace the beauty that love and life has to offer. AN UTTER GEM OF BRILLIANCE IN EPIC LOVE THAT KEEPS FIGHTING!
“You are my heart. Your lifeblood sustains mine. Not my equal; you are more powerful than me.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense, Dark Romance
Character Types: Mafia, Dancer/Ballerina, Alpha Male/Protector
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Tear Jerker, World Building A Focus, One True Pairing
Tropes: Epic Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Nicole Fox
Cora Reilly
JM Darhower
Song This Book Inspires
Beautiful People by Ed Sheeran
Recommendation For Reading Order
YES ----you need to read these books in order
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
March 2, 2021
Just when you thought you couldn’t love or be more in love with Brando Fausti anymore than you already have Bella goes and add 101 more reasons and solidifies why Brando is just the perfect man 🤩
I’ve loved reading and seeing Brando and Scarletts love and relationship grow and evolve from when we first met them in Man if Honour to Ruler of Hearts has just been so magical and beautiful 😍
Ruler was a good addition to the saga and I enjoyed reading it. I would have given it 5 stars if not for the fact that there was little involvement of the secondary characters. Don’t get me wrong I loved Ruler and how this book really focused on Brando and Scarletts relationship more than any of the other books because they went through so much in the early stages of their relationship as well as the early years of their marriage and were apart from each other for 45% of their relationship and had a lot of people coming in between their marriage and that was why this book felt refreshing to read.
That being said I still missed the involvement and input of the secondary characters. Yes they were there and in the background of Brando and Scarletts story but unlike the other books, in Ruler they were more mentioned in passing and didn’t get much depth from them unlike in the other books. I understand that because some of these secondary characters will get their own books and Bella didn’t want to spoil their books by going into depth and we did get some when they were in New York and I was ok with that and thought there was going to be more but as the book went on it became less and less. I missed the conversations that Brando would either have with Rocco or with all his brothers or him getting wisdom from Uncle Tito. Or Scarletts conversations with Maggie Beautiful or the other women such as Rosaria. Or any scene where Maggie Beautiful steals the show 😂.
Because what made me fall in love with this series and got lost and consumed by this world that Bella created was the relationship of not only Brando and Scarlett which is beautiful but also the relationships and love between the main and secondary characters, their comradeship, their interactions, their input and their banter that made the other books such a joy to read that I just felt that something was missing from this book.
But all in all it was a great book. Beautiful and well written where it just sucks you into the Fausti world from the first page until the end. Thank you Bella 😊. I can’t wait to read the next instalment and see more of the Fausti men and their wives and families. Especially seeing where things would lead with Luca and Maggie Beautiful 😍😍
I’ve loved reading and seeing Brando and Scarletts love and relationship grow and evolve from when we first met them in Man if Honour to Ruler of Hearts has just been so magical and beautiful 😍
Ruler was a good addition to the saga and I enjoyed reading it. I would have given it 5 stars if not for the fact that there was little involvement of the secondary characters. Don’t get me wrong I loved Ruler and how this book really focused on Brando and Scarletts relationship more than any of the other books because they went through so much in the early stages of their relationship as well as the early years of their marriage and were apart from each other for 45% of their relationship and had a lot of people coming in between their marriage and that was why this book felt refreshing to read.
That being said I still missed the involvement and input of the secondary characters. Yes they were there and in the background of Brando and Scarletts story but unlike the other books, in Ruler they were more mentioned in passing and didn’t get much depth from them unlike in the other books. I understand that because some of these secondary characters will get their own books and Bella didn’t want to spoil their books by going into depth and we did get some when they were in New York and I was ok with that and thought there was going to be more but as the book went on it became less and less. I missed the conversations that Brando would either have with Rocco or with all his brothers or him getting wisdom from Uncle Tito. Or Scarletts conversations with Maggie Beautiful or the other women such as Rosaria. Or any scene where Maggie Beautiful steals the show 😂.
Because what made me fall in love with this series and got lost and consumed by this world that Bella created was the relationship of not only Brando and Scarlett which is beautiful but also the relationships and love between the main and secondary characters, their comradeship, their interactions, their input and their banter that made the other books such a joy to read that I just felt that something was missing from this book.
But all in all it was a great book. Beautiful and well written where it just sucks you into the Fausti world from the first page until the end. Thank you Bella 😊. I can’t wait to read the next instalment and see more of the Fausti men and their wives and families. Especially seeing where things would lead with Luca and Maggie Beautiful 😍😍
April 19, 2021
4.5 stars
February 18, 2021
Another amazing book in the Fausti Saga! I am so in love with these characters, this family. Gah! I feel like I’m living their lives alongside them. These books are real, raw, and romantic. Ruler of Hearts is really kicking it up a notch. Things are happening that I have been waiting a long time to see and I am just LOVING every minute! This is also the time we start to see more of those mafia elements coming into play. I am just so intrigued and I can’t wait to see what happens next for Brando and Scarlett!
February 18, 2021
Ruler of Hearts: A Royal Organized Crime Romance (The Fausti
Family #6)
Written by: Bella Di Corte
Ruler of Hearts could mean so many things. The Fausti Four, Brando, Rocco, Dario and Romeo would each be considered a Ruler of a Heart. In fact my feeling is there is a darker meaning. I could be wrong, the Fausti Four certainly rule at least four hearts.
The younger branch of the Fausti Family tree having all become very close have now moved to New York City. Ruler of Hearts begins two years after Brando is saved from the yacht and Scarlett is now the Principle Dancer for the American Ballet Theatre. Some things have stayed constant and others have changed to fit into American life.
Some Fausti Family members have become enamored with Social Media, one of the best parts of book six is about Romeo who happens to run two instagram pages…I will leave you to find out what they are both about.
Although time has passed there is still danger and Scarlett and Brando’s two biggest nemeses are still out there. Nemours and Ettore are still a threat to Scarlett and Brando and Luca at least for the time being is keeping Ettore in line. With as much protection as is possible life seems to be moving smoothly, but there often can be problems that crop up from someone’s past and this happens again in New York. Old friends are mentioned and now we see where stories can intertwine.
In book six, Bella Di Corte, magnificent wordsmith she is, gives readers so much to take in and process, a wedding, a new venture, a return to home, a fight that turns two characters against each other and of course a heart.
We continue to see the growth in the love that is shared between Brando and Scarlett, they are as one and that can be wonderful and it can cause problems, yet they still work as a unit.
What Bella Di Corte has given us is, as I say, a saga of love, loss, beauty, grief and in the end she always leaves readers wanting. What next? What do the Fausti’s (every one of them) have in store for readers and who will be introduced into our saga and will others leave? You cannot put these books down, when you think you know what is next, it’s proven you really know nothing and so you just hang on for the ride she is taking readers on. Readers, tighten your seat belts this ride might get bumpy!
Family #6)
Written by: Bella Di Corte
Ruler of Hearts could mean so many things. The Fausti Four, Brando, Rocco, Dario and Romeo would each be considered a Ruler of a Heart. In fact my feeling is there is a darker meaning. I could be wrong, the Fausti Four certainly rule at least four hearts.
The younger branch of the Fausti Family tree having all become very close have now moved to New York City. Ruler of Hearts begins two years after Brando is saved from the yacht and Scarlett is now the Principle Dancer for the American Ballet Theatre. Some things have stayed constant and others have changed to fit into American life.
Some Fausti Family members have become enamored with Social Media, one of the best parts of book six is about Romeo who happens to run two instagram pages…I will leave you to find out what they are both about.
Although time has passed there is still danger and Scarlett and Brando’s two biggest nemeses are still out there. Nemours and Ettore are still a threat to Scarlett and Brando and Luca at least for the time being is keeping Ettore in line. With as much protection as is possible life seems to be moving smoothly, but there often can be problems that crop up from someone’s past and this happens again in New York. Old friends are mentioned and now we see where stories can intertwine.
In book six, Bella Di Corte, magnificent wordsmith she is, gives readers so much to take in and process, a wedding, a new venture, a return to home, a fight that turns two characters against each other and of course a heart.
We continue to see the growth in the love that is shared between Brando and Scarlett, they are as one and that can be wonderful and it can cause problems, yet they still work as a unit.
What Bella Di Corte has given us is, as I say, a saga of love, loss, beauty, grief and in the end she always leaves readers wanting. What next? What do the Fausti’s (every one of them) have in store for readers and who will be introduced into our saga and will others leave? You cannot put these books down, when you think you know what is next, it’s proven you really know nothing and so you just hang on for the ride she is taking readers on. Readers, tighten your seat belts this ride might get bumpy!
October 16, 2021
So much happened in this book! Bella really pulled at my heartstrings with this one. My crew... My Fausti fam, they're living in their own reality, carving out their little corner of the world. Enemies lurk, yet the doom and gloom from previous books doesn't seem to be ever-present. New York City is like the little break they all needed to settle in and breathe.
And yet... Things get tweaked here and there, and reality comes rushing back on. Just like that, Bella has my heart in my throat, my pulse racing, and my nerves going wild.
What I love about this series is that she's truly created a book world to immerse yourself in. This is no one-and-done type of read. By the end, she'll have given us 8 books of Brando, Scarlett, and this whole Fausti crew. There aren't many fictional families that I love, but this one is definitely one of them.
And yet... Things get tweaked here and there, and reality comes rushing back on. Just like that, Bella has my heart in my throat, my pulse racing, and my nerves going wild.
What I love about this series is that she's truly created a book world to immerse yourself in. This is no one-and-done type of read. By the end, she'll have given us 8 books of Brando, Scarlett, and this whole Fausti crew. There aren't many fictional families that I love, but this one is definitely one of them.
March 14, 2023
Ruler of Hearts is the 6th (and longest book) in The Fausti Family series. I've been obsessed with this series and the characters since last December. I read the first few books fairly quickly but now that I'm reaching the end, and the longer books, I've been slowing down, not only due to a lack of time but also to savor the story and the characters I love so much.
I swear Brando and all of his brothers have my heart. Each has a distinct personality, and I love reading about each one and their love for each other.
But Brando is my heart. He really is. He's just so... FINE.
He and Scarlett are perfect together, no matter what situation is thrown at them they are able to overcome the challenge and come out even stronger and more in love. It's just a beautiful romance and soul-deep love they have for each other. In this book, they are dare I say... stable? I mean they have their fights, but they are pretty comfortable in their relationship, but I mean after 5 books I would hope so ;).
But all that doesn't mean Brando is no longer his over-the-top, control freak alpha gorgeous self. If anything he is even more so because he wants to safeguard Scarlett more than ever with so many enemies out there just waiting to make their move.
Even though I loved Ruler of Hearts I did rate it 4 stars. I love Brando's brothers so much and I feel like they weren't as involved in this book as they were in the previous ones, especially Rocco who is my favorite. There were some other things here and there throughout the book that just made me take points off, but I still loved the story and cannot wait to dive into book 7!
I swear Brando and all of his brothers have my heart. Each has a distinct personality, and I love reading about each one and their love for each other.
But Brando is my heart. He really is. He's just so... FINE.
He and Scarlett are perfect together, no matter what situation is thrown at them they are able to overcome the challenge and come out even stronger and more in love. It's just a beautiful romance and soul-deep love they have for each other. In this book, they are dare I say... stable? I mean they have their fights, but they are pretty comfortable in their relationship, but I mean after 5 books I would hope so ;).
But all that doesn't mean Brando is no longer his over-the-top, control freak alpha gorgeous self. If anything he is even more so because he wants to safeguard Scarlett more than ever with so many enemies out there just waiting to make their move.
Even though I loved Ruler of Hearts I did rate it 4 stars. I love Brando's brothers so much and I feel like they weren't as involved in this book as they were in the previous ones, especially Rocco who is my favorite. There were some other things here and there throughout the book that just made me take points off, but I still loved the story and cannot wait to dive into book 7!
February 11, 2025
OMG, OMG.... This Book 📚📖 Was Well Worth the Wait
The quote from Oscar Wilde is so true here..."The Truth is Rarely Pure and Simple. I have waited for this story and so when my pre-ordered book slid into my Kindle I was so happy. I finally got started on my book yesterday and I have to say Bella Di Corte you brought joy to my heart 💜. This story exceeded my expectations and best of all Bella doesn't just give us two or three hundred pages, no we get 800 pages and more. I will definitely not give away what happened but I can sorta give you a synopsis.
There is Part One - brothers have homes in NY because Ballerina Girl aka Scarlett is still 🩰 dancing because she is after all a World famous Prima. Ballerina. The brothers and extended family are preparing for Romeo, who is one of my favorite brothers and of course he's going to marry Juliette, which we learn about in 📚 5.
Then Part two finds them back in New Orleans because of a family emergency. Secrets are revealed and betrayals are discovered but it was so good that I read it through the night.
Part three finds the brothers back in Tuscany, Italy and I believe this part made me laugh and cry brought joy to my heart
I will close with this quote from the author of this book Bella Di Corte , this is of course Brando talking to Scarlett..." I never believed in magic until I saw you dancing my wife. I never believed in Love 💕 until you touched my hand, my wife. I never believed in transcendence until I made love to you, my wife. I never believed in forever, until you became my wife.
What i would like to say is that Bella is very poetic and if you love Mafia family Book series get the Fausti Family Saga. I am excited to read 📚📖 Book seven. I can't wait for them to appear on Bella Di Corte's Store. I love the Beautiful years of the Fausti Family and all the extended family.
I started reading this series again and I just finished this book 6 and it was better the second time around. I started because I had just read King of Italy, Rocco's book and it was so good and because I have to wait for the next book of Bella's I decided to read about the beautiful years of Brando and Scarlett and all their good and bad times. This is a book I bought from Bella's store. I purchased all the books that pertained to the Fausti Family even though I have them on Kindle also.
The quote from Oscar Wilde is so true here..."The Truth is Rarely Pure and Simple. I have waited for this story and so when my pre-ordered book slid into my Kindle I was so happy. I finally got started on my book yesterday and I have to say Bella Di Corte you brought joy to my heart 💜. This story exceeded my expectations and best of all Bella doesn't just give us two or three hundred pages, no we get 800 pages and more. I will definitely not give away what happened but I can sorta give you a synopsis.
There is Part One - brothers have homes in NY because Ballerina Girl aka Scarlett is still 🩰 dancing because she is after all a World famous Prima. Ballerina. The brothers and extended family are preparing for Romeo, who is one of my favorite brothers and of course he's going to marry Juliette, which we learn about in 📚 5.
Then Part two finds them back in New Orleans because of a family emergency. Secrets are revealed and betrayals are discovered but it was so good that I read it through the night.
Part three finds the brothers back in Tuscany, Italy and I believe this part made me laugh and cry brought joy to my heart
I will close with this quote from the author of this book Bella Di Corte , this is of course Brando talking to Scarlett..." I never believed in magic until I saw you dancing my wife. I never believed in Love 💕 until you touched my hand, my wife. I never believed in transcendence until I made love to you, my wife. I never believed in forever, until you became my wife.
What i would like to say is that Bella is very poetic and if you love Mafia family Book series get the Fausti Family Saga. I am excited to read 📚📖 Book seven. I can't wait for them to appear on Bella Di Corte's Store. I love the Beautiful years of the Fausti Family and all the extended family.
I started reading this series again and I just finished this book 6 and it was better the second time around. I started because I had just read King of Italy, Rocco's book and it was so good and because I have to wait for the next book of Bella's I decided to read about the beautiful years of Brando and Scarlett and all their good and bad times. This is a book I bought from Bella's store. I purchased all the books that pertained to the Fausti Family even though I have them on Kindle also.
August 21, 2021
My book husband. 💗
I find it so hard to review these books. My word will never do it justice. Just know this series is so special. It is my favorite mafia romance EVER. Bella is an incredible writer. Her words are lovely. Everything in this book has meaning. Her writing is like poetry. Everything flows so well. Once you start reading you won't be able to stop.
If you haven't read this series. please go and read Man of Honor. It's the beginning of Scarlet's and Brando's relationship. There very young. Each book tell her life story.
Out of all the books this one is the most upsetting. There is a part of this book that hit me hard. I needed a moment to take it all in. 😩 😭
A day later still heart broken. This book was so upsetting for me. Lots and lots of pain in this one.
❤️💔
I find it so hard to review these books. My word will never do it justice. Just know this series is so special. It is my favorite mafia romance EVER. Bella is an incredible writer. Her words are lovely. Everything in this book has meaning. Her writing is like poetry. Everything flows so well. Once you start reading you won't be able to stop.
If you haven't read this series. please go and read Man of Honor. It's the beginning of Scarlet's and Brando's relationship. There very young. Each book tell her life story.
Out of all the books this one is the most upsetting. There is a part of this book that hit me hard. I needed a moment to take it all in. 😩 😭
A day later still heart broken. This book was so upsetting for me. Lots and lots of pain in this one.
❤️💔
7-tbr-ooit
April 4, 2022
August 25, 2022
I melted into this book, into every word, it trapped me in their love. Brando and Scarlet are two souls beautifully paired together.
It really does make me pause to think of a time when they weren’t together, and how deeply they felt about that, how hurt they were, how they needed one another together to feel whole. I loved how we had so much forgiveness in this book, how we returned to Paris, and the house on Snow, how they came full circle and have the present and the future ahead of them.
Separation of any kind doesn’t work for them, I think it’s because their heart doesn’t know it’s just temporary, it’s just for now. With danger lurking in the shadows from Ettore and Nemours it definitely has Brando on edge.
Gosh, we get so much of Brando and Scarlett in this book. I adored it, as soon as I open their book I fall into them. I completely just let go and wrap myself up in their bubble. I loved their Brooklyn brownstone house and Christmas, seeing the famiglia.
Again, it’s aesthetically so vivid, so warm. We have a wedding for a Fausti brother ( I won’t say :) ) We have the ongoing rivalry between the Stones and Faustis. ROH just felt like more!
More danger, more heartbreak, more intrigue, more sensuality, and more love. I crave more and more and I already feel so sad about getting so close to finishing their saga, but I must! :)
Brotherhood really stood out to me in this book. Between the Faustis, they surround one another, a big thing happens and by the end they only grow stronger. Between Mitch and Mick, who have always rivaled but to realize how bittersweet it really was between them.
AND LUCA!! How mysterious you almost don’t feel real. He has had a haunting presence from the beginning and in this book to get him. OOF I didn’t know if I should run away from you or towards you. Maggie Beautiful your scenes! and your scene with Brando. Intense! All the tears. When he calls her “Mamma.”
Side note: Pastina is medicine I agree! Lol
I wanted to say so much but I don’t want to reveal too much but my heart is so so full! And the danger has me holding my breath! 🥀🩸!
February 24, 2021
I’ve got to say, once again Bella knocked it outta the park! This is the 6th installment of The Beautiful Years. If you’re reading this, and haven’t read them yet, I have no idea what you’re waiting for! If you’re unsure or unfamiliar with her work, go back and check out my other reviews of them, and of her Gangsters of New York trilogy, then read them all!
With this installment we’re living in New York; and where one Fausti goes, so follow the others. It’s a fantastic telling of life, married to your Other Half, while marrying into the most powerful mafia family in the world, and being a world-renowned Prima Ballerina. It has all the BIG, to be expected, storylines of the mafia, the famous part; but it also has the “I’m just a girl, and you’re just my guy” parts. It brings in all the crazy left field things life throws at you, while tossing in a few “OMG! Did that just happen” moments. There’s the pageantry, the poignancy, the unpredictability that happens in life, but written in a way you can see it happening. You know someone the exact same thing happened to. You know someone in the same situation. You feel for the characters & the storyline; and just when you think you’ve got ahold on where it’s going BAM! a true-to-life twist. And then you turn the page and get a “to be continued in Book #7” so you toss your Kindle across the room and curse Bella out. (Then you run over, grab your Kindle, & hope you have enough time to reread the first 6 books before a book #7 comes out!)
Anyway.... where was I? Oh, if you haven’t read Book #6, you need to! If you’ve read the GoNY series, you need to read The Beautiful Years series. If you’ve read TBY, go read the GoNY. If you’re in the fence about reading her, just do it! You’ll thank me!
Annie, you’re gonna be the death of either me or my Kindle.
With this installment we’re living in New York; and where one Fausti goes, so follow the others. It’s a fantastic telling of life, married to your Other Half, while marrying into the most powerful mafia family in the world, and being a world-renowned Prima Ballerina. It has all the BIG, to be expected, storylines of the mafia, the famous part; but it also has the “I’m just a girl, and you’re just my guy” parts. It brings in all the crazy left field things life throws at you, while tossing in a few “OMG! Did that just happen” moments. There’s the pageantry, the poignancy, the unpredictability that happens in life, but written in a way you can see it happening. You know someone the exact same thing happened to. You know someone in the same situation. You feel for the characters & the storyline; and just when you think you’ve got ahold on where it’s going BAM! a true-to-life twist. And then you turn the page and get a “to be continued in Book #7” so you toss your Kindle across the room and curse Bella out. (Then you run over, grab your Kindle, & hope you have enough time to reread the first 6 books before a book #7 comes out!)
Anyway.... where was I? Oh, if you haven’t read Book #6, you need to! If you’ve read the GoNY series, you need to read The Beautiful Years series. If you’ve read TBY, go read the GoNY. If you’re in the fence about reading her, just do it! You’ll thank me!
Annie, you’re gonna be the death of either me or my Kindle.
March 10, 2021
In Ruler of Hearts, Brando and Scarlett have proven why they are just that – Ruler of Hearts (ours!). The swoon factor is strong. As if we needed another reason to be in love with Brando? Or to want Scarlett to be real so we can be her friend? And, as always, the secondary characters bring so much life to this world! I can’t wait for more of them, and I do want so much more!!
Previous books had given a sense of being Mafia Romance, but there is so much more now. You can literally feel it in each part, getting thicker and more tangled in both the famiglia and the romance. The monsters are not hiding under the bed or in the closet any longer. The danger grows, but so does the strength of our lovers.
Ruler of Hearts draws you in so deep. Bella’s writing makes it feel so real, almost like you are watching a documentary. The ending leaves you wanting more. No, the ending leaves you needing more! Luckily, there are 5 books to re-read, along with the incredible Gangs of New York series, while waiting for the more.
Previous books had given a sense of being Mafia Romance, but there is so much more now. You can literally feel it in each part, getting thicker and more tangled in both the famiglia and the romance. The monsters are not hiding under the bed or in the closet any longer. The danger grows, but so does the strength of our lovers.
Ruler of Hearts draws you in so deep. Bella’s writing makes it feel so real, almost like you are watching a documentary. The ending leaves you wanting more. No, the ending leaves you needing more! Luckily, there are 5 books to re-read, along with the incredible Gangs of New York series, while waiting for the more.
March 31, 2021
The Fausti Famiglia are back!
Whilst I loved catching up with the Fausti's, I wasn't totally enthralled with this book. It was too slow paced for me, so much so that I stopped reading halfway through, read another series and then came back to finish. It just didn't keep me gripped like the other books in this series.
Where the starts off, it is 2 years later and the whole family is living in New York where Scarlett is dancing and Romeo has got his Juiliette and they are now engaged... At this point I had to stop reading and go to check on Goodreads to make sure I hadn't missed another book somewhere along the way as I couldn't believe we missed the whole story of how Romeo and Juiliette got together. That would have been a good story especially with the Stones involved (if I have missed this book somewhere, please point me in the right direction!)
All in all, I enjoyed the book for the fact that its a continuation of Scarlett and Brando's story, but for me there wasn't enough action.
Whilst I loved catching up with the Fausti's, I wasn't totally enthralled with this book. It was too slow paced for me, so much so that I stopped reading halfway through, read another series and then came back to finish. It just didn't keep me gripped like the other books in this series.
Where the starts off, it is 2 years later and the whole family is living in New York where Scarlett is dancing and Romeo has got his Juiliette and they are now engaged... At this point I had to stop reading and go to check on Goodreads to make sure I hadn't missed another book somewhere along the way as I couldn't believe we missed the whole story of how Romeo and Juiliette got together. That would have been a good story especially with the Stones involved (if I have missed this book somewhere, please point me in the right direction!)
All in all, I enjoyed the book for the fact that its a continuation of Scarlett and Brando's story, but for me there wasn't enough action.
March 6, 2021
This was so worth the wait, and I am so happy to be back in the Fausti world!! After the heartbreak of War of Monsters, I was so ready to go back to New York and Louisiana with Scarlett and Brando. Bella’s writing is so vivid and rich, I actually felt like I was back home in Louisiana. Reading her books literally feels like coming home, I didn’t realize how much I missed the Famiglia until all my favorite characters started making appearances - Uncle Tito, Maggie Beautiful, Romeo, Mitch, Violet, they’re all here in one beautiful package. At long last, we finally meet Luca, and learn more about the Fausti/Stone feud. The New York, Louisiana, and Italian backdrops are spectacular, the stories of the other characters are woven throughout, but Brando and Scarlett remain the heart of the story. Their obsession with and devotion to each other is the absolute best in romance right now. The Beautiful Years, indeed...
A million thanks for the ARC, i read it twice, I completely loved it.
A million thanks for the ARC, i read it twice, I completely loved it.
February 19, 2021
An Epic love story is how I have described Brando and Scarlett in past reviews and that is exactly how I will continue to describe it as it is just fitting. Brando and Scarlett are always fighting some force that is trying desperately to break them apart, yet with sheer determination and will they seem to overcome it all. This series is about love and family, but also has true heartbreak, loss and hurt woven in, and I love how the author deals with these elements honestly and doesn't just gloss over it. I end up feeling like I am living these stories right along with the Fausti family and to me that is the sign of a well written book. I cannot recommend this series enough.
ARC via Buoni Amici Press for an honest review
ARC via Buoni Amici Press for an honest review
March 2, 2021
Just amazing!! This book will take you from the highest highs to the lowest lows. By lows, I am saying to have a box of Kleenex next to you. There are secrets that are finally revealed. Promises are broken, pain, and suffering. Then the most joyous occasions. Danger still lurks about for Scarlet and Brando, but not as sneaky as it has been in the past. It is more in your face now.
I don't dare go into specifics as I know I will give away spoilers or burst into tears. This is a must-read book. It is a very long book with long chapters, but all the best books are all like that.
As with all of Bella's books her writing pulls you in and won't let you go until the last page has been read. One her best books to date. That is saying something as I love all her books.
I don't dare go into specifics as I know I will give away spoilers or burst into tears. This is a must-read book. It is a very long book with long chapters, but all the best books are all like that.
As with all of Bella's books her writing pulls you in and won't let you go until the last page has been read. One her best books to date. That is saying something as I love all her books.
February 16, 2021
Ruler of Hearts by Bella Di Corte. This is a true saga, know this going in that you will want to put your whole mind and heart into this story and allow it the time it deserves. To be read, to be devoured. Brando and Scarlett have such an amazing and unconditional love story. So intense and beautifully written, you want it to keep going and going. Just like any true and committed relationship this story has the most important elements of patience, perseverance, and most importantly passion. The authors’ writing style is so emotional and passionate; you feel the characters as you read the story. I highly recommend this book, series, and author to others.
February 20, 2021
♥️♥️♥️so much love for this book and series and author!!
I loved this story. I have read all the previous books, even the ones about Eva and Gabriel and lotus and Michael! Love how all of their lives intersect, and i am thrilled with the brando fausti life/ love saga unfolding. Scarlett and Brando have an amazing love ... these books make you feel the heat and intensity of every second.. ups and downs... gah they are such an emotional journey. Needless to say i am anxiously awaiting the next book, am a HUGE fan of both this story and ALL of the authors others! Also i am so excited to see more of the mysterious leon, LUCA FAUSTI! 😍
I loved this story. I have read all the previous books, even the ones about Eva and Gabriel and lotus and Michael! Love how all of their lives intersect, and i am thrilled with the brando fausti life/ love saga unfolding. Scarlett and Brando have an amazing love ... these books make you feel the heat and intensity of every second.. ups and downs... gah they are such an emotional journey. Needless to say i am anxiously awaiting the next book, am a HUGE fan of both this story and ALL of the authors others! Also i am so excited to see more of the mysterious leon, LUCA FAUSTI! 😍
February 21, 2021
AMAZING READ!!!! 5 star book!!
Bella Di Corte you did it again! I read this book in 4 days and I am so in love. I have read every sing book in this series and I am happy that there will be more.
First of all, her writing is on point and it takes you into a different world. I get all of the feels in this book. I’m literally obsessed with Brando and Scarlett. The dips and turns this book takes you is mind blowing.
This book picks up from the last one and it’s about their life in New York. Scarlett and Brando run into a few obstacles they have to get through like her dance career and family drama. I am very excited for the next book!
Bella Di Corte you did it again! I read this book in 4 days and I am so in love. I have read every sing book in this series and I am happy that there will be more.
First of all, her writing is on point and it takes you into a different world. I get all of the feels in this book. I’m literally obsessed with Brando and Scarlett. The dips and turns this book takes you is mind blowing.
This book picks up from the last one and it’s about their life in New York. Scarlett and Brando run into a few obstacles they have to get through like her dance career and family drama. I am very excited for the next book!
March 6, 2021
"Fausti Four !!!!!!!
I have been with this series from the beginning and Girl you are Rockin my World with "BrandPow"😇😇😇. This series is awesome each story leaves you wanting more right then, I don't have the words to express as the saga continues with these strong alpha Bad Boys known as the "Fausti Four"and the women who captures their heart, and now I'm really anxious for the man of the hour" Luca Fausti "😊😊 and Maggie Beautiful she is Beautiful. Again you are Rockin this series also can you shorten that August date just asking 😊 , so again Well Done Author !!!!!
I have been with this series from the beginning and Girl you are Rockin my World with "BrandPow"😇😇😇. This series is awesome each story leaves you wanting more right then, I don't have the words to express as the saga continues with these strong alpha Bad Boys known as the "Fausti Four"and the women who captures their heart, and now I'm really anxious for the man of the hour" Luca Fausti "😊😊 and Maggie Beautiful she is Beautiful. Again you are Rockin this series also can you shorten that August date just asking 😊 , so again Well Done Author !!!!!
March 22, 2021
Oof. I don’t remember the past 5 books having the same amount of uhhh, spicy, uhh scenes as this one.
I fell in love w the Fausti 4 all over again. My poor heart. But I thoroughly enjoyed it even though there wasn’t any major things that happened in terms of drama and craziness. Except for that one huge part of the book, but yk what I mean.
The thing that really made me like this was the banter between the characters and it made the very very slow pace more bearable.
I fell in love w the Fausti 4 all over again. My poor heart. But I thoroughly enjoyed it even though there wasn’t any major things that happened in terms of drama and craziness. Except for that one huge part of the book, but yk what I mean.
The thing that really made me like this was the banter between the characters and it made the very very slow pace more bearable.
March 31, 2021
Holy so much happens in this part I couldn't stop reading! The love between Brando and Scarlett, is the love everyone wishes to find, it consumes all. There is loss, hatred, vengeance, excitement and so much love in this part, like the rest. This read like the rest, has everything readers want in a book, everything that keeps us wanting to turn to pages and wish for it to never end. There will never be a Brando Scarlett book I will not immediately fall in love with.
February 20, 2021
This is one of the most brilliantly written series I have ever read. I love all the characters. The Fausti Four, their beautiful strong courageous women, their fierce protective demeanor. I can imagine their beauty, their romantic way of speaking, their endless love. Sigh...
I cannot wait for more.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book.
I cannot wait for more.
I read and reviewed a copy of this book.
February 21, 2021
Book 6 of the Fausti Family is just as awe inspiring as the first five books. The journey of Brando and family is a wonderful journey filled with all of the feels. Enemies return, love blooms, heartache and family responsibilities all come together in the intriguing story. I rarely give five stars but this story just calls to me and I cannot wait for more. Well done Bella!!
March 13, 2021
This is the 6th book in the series and I do recommend reading them in order. Brando and Scarlett’s life had settled somewhat until his father wants him to become leader of the family. They end up going home where everything started. Fast-paced emotional read with loads of drama, suspense and steam. The characters and their story really draw you in. I loved it.
March 17, 2021
Another outstanding book to this series
I just love this series, I feel so drawn into this family, that I am on this journey with them I am blown away. This series deserves to be a tv series fantastic love story with the twist of added Mafia, it is well written and a credit to the author Bella Do Corte
Love it love it love
I just love this series, I feel so drawn into this family, that I am on this journey with them I am blown away. This series deserves to be a tv series fantastic love story with the twist of added Mafia, it is well written and a credit to the author Bella Do Corte
Love it love it love
March 31, 2021
Wow!!!!
You are such a detailed writer! I simply get lost on your books. Can’t wait for next book in this series. The only thing I do not like about your books is that I miss Brando so much😊😊 I appreciate the fact that you stick to your release dates, so many authors have list me as a fan because they push books back 7 months at a time. That you for all your hard work.
You are such a detailed writer! I simply get lost on your books. Can’t wait for next book in this series. The only thing I do not like about your books is that I miss Brando so much😊😊 I appreciate the fact that you stick to your release dates, so many authors have list me as a fan because they push books back 7 months at a time. That you for all your hard work.
November 10, 2021
Another amazing book!!!! Each book in this series is so different from the previous book. There were times that the book felt slow but it would pick up again. This book had some twists and turns that I did not see coming. I am so excited to continue with the series. Bella Di Corte is an extraordinary writer.
December 10, 2021
Another great addition to the series
I love following this family, they take us through great struggles and also great joys. The love and loyalty is shown throughout, as well as their challenges.
I would like to have seen a bit more action I guess, but I'm still enjoying following their lives as they move forward.
I love following this family, they take us through great struggles and also great joys. The love and loyalty is shown throughout, as well as their challenges.
I would like to have seen a bit more action I guess, but I'm still enjoying following their lives as they move forward.
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