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Kingdoms #1
Knocked Up by the Beast
I used to believe in fairy tales.
And then I met him.
They call him the beast.
Shadows danced under his cold eyes, but all I saw was his fire.
He pressed me up against the walls of his castle, and growled against my neck that I belonged to him. He made a dark flower bloom inside me, awakening a hunger that I didn't even know existed.
I gave myself to him.
I let him dominate every inch of me. I let him hold my heart and see every corner of my soul.
When it was his turn to do the same, it all went dark.
I get a peek into his real world for the first time--a world of ruthless criminals and savage monsters.
His baby grows inside me as long-hidden secrets start to unravel--each of them bigger than the last.
Real intentions surface.
I discover that everything I once believed to be true is really a lie.
There are no such things as fairy tales.
And only time will tell if I dodged a bullet or made the biggest mistake of my life.
Welcome to 'Kingdoms.' Each book is a fairy-tale based contemporary standalone set in the criminal underworld of Chicago. If you like your romance steamy and bordering on the dark side with twists that will have your heart racing, you've come to the right place. HEA always.
And then I met him.
They call him the beast.
Shadows danced under his cold eyes, but all I saw was his fire.
He pressed me up against the walls of his castle, and growled against my neck that I belonged to him. He made a dark flower bloom inside me, awakening a hunger that I didn't even know existed.
I gave myself to him.
I let him dominate every inch of me. I let him hold my heart and see every corner of my soul.
When it was his turn to do the same, it all went dark.
I get a peek into his real world for the first time--a world of ruthless criminals and savage monsters.
His baby grows inside me as long-hidden secrets start to unravel--each of them bigger than the last.
Real intentions surface.
I discover that everything I once believed to be true is really a lie.
There are no such things as fairy tales.
And only time will tell if I dodged a bullet or made the biggest mistake of my life.
Welcome to 'Kingdoms.' Each book is a fairy-tale based contemporary standalone set in the criminal underworld of Chicago. If you like your romance steamy and bordering on the dark side with twists that will have your heart racing, you've come to the right place. HEA always.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 27, 2020
1407 people are currently reading
1285 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
December 29, 2020
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 3/5
Sexual: SEX-CITINGLY GOOD
Enjoyment: 4/5
Male: Mysterious, Tall, Rich, Sexy & Alpha
Series: Book 1
Pages : kindle location 5416
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
I had different emotions while reading this book. The best way to describe it, it felt like I was reading two novels in one. From the beginning up to 41% I thought wow, they are going superfast and wasn’t sure how to feel. However, as the story became more interesting, I was unable to take my eyes away. All these characters started coming out of nowhere, and it was like a gangsta soap opera, so juicy. Not to say the beginning was bad, but the flow was a little different for me.
Leo, was so mysterious, and I love his take charge super alpha attitude. Belle, I enjoyed her innocence. Sometimes I thought, girl, what are you doing, run! I enjoyed their chemistry together and Leo’s infatuation with Belle.
Overall, it was a little different in the way the author started and finished. I can tell you when I got to the end, I definitely felt a little sad, because all the other characters, I want to know now what happen! So excited to see if there will be more books because there is so much to be told.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s definitely about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the stories you read. I hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 3/5
Sexual: SEX-CITINGLY GOOD
Enjoyment: 4/5
Male: Mysterious, Tall, Rich, Sexy & Alpha
Series: Book 1
Pages : kindle location 5416
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
I had different emotions while reading this book. The best way to describe it, it felt like I was reading two novels in one. From the beginning up to 41% I thought wow, they are going superfast and wasn’t sure how to feel. However, as the story became more interesting, I was unable to take my eyes away. All these characters started coming out of nowhere, and it was like a gangsta soap opera, so juicy. Not to say the beginning was bad, but the flow was a little different for me.
Leo, was so mysterious, and I love his take charge super alpha attitude. Belle, I enjoyed her innocence. Sometimes I thought, girl, what are you doing, run! I enjoyed their chemistry together and Leo’s infatuation with Belle.
Overall, it was a little different in the way the author started and finished. I can tell you when I got to the end, I definitely felt a little sad, because all the other characters, I want to know now what happen! So excited to see if there will be more books because there is so much to be told.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s definitely about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the stories you read. I hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 20, 2021
This is a contemporary mafia retelling of beauty and the beast, So after Belles father is caught stealing Belle travels to the isolated Blackwood estate deep in the forest and here encounters the mysterious owner Leo Blackwood, In exchange for her father's release Belle agrees to work for Leo as his housekeeper.
So this initially failed to grab me I found the initial interactions between Leo and Belle very fast
and It all just seemed very cliche with very limited build-up.
But if insta-lust and insta-love is your jam then this may not be an issue for you, I don’t mind it sometimes if it feels right but for the story here it just didn’t.
I then found Belle to be very indecisive over just what she actually wants and that irritated me.
She constantly puts up walls that are the polar opposite to what she says she wants but then doesn’t stick to her decisions and her thought process itself just seemed immature and juvenile.
Leo equally irritated me he has no backbone when it comes to Belle, he could have been such a great character but comes across as so bland.
Also some of his choices just plain confused me one being the business with Nico and Leo sending Luna in his stead, Belle was in danger and I get that Leo felt pulled in half but one was his past and the other his future would he have been able to live with himself if he’d miscalculated the situation, well it just didn’t sit well with me one little bit.
That aside the second half of this was much better than the first but there was still a lot of very far fetched scenarios and I wasn’t always convinced of the authenticity of some of them.
The writing itself was Ok but I did cringe at some of the dirty talk between Leo and Belle it was just so over the top.
This one wasn’t quite for me unfortunately it happens.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of knocked up by the beast.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
September 25, 2021
4 stars ⭐️
I really don’t know whether I liked this book or not, it’s one that I had to work to get into, but it kept me interested to finish it to find out how it ended. I didn’t really click with it, I don’t know why. The storyline was good, it had plenty of mystery. I think I found it hard to relate to the characters, I don’t know 🤷♀️. But I’m sure others out there will enjoy it. It is riddled with emotional baggage, but that only adds to the mystery. Overall, I did enjoy the read, but I just don’t know why it didn’t move me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really don’t know whether I liked this book or not, it’s one that I had to work to get into, but it kept me interested to finish it to find out how it ended. I didn’t really click with it, I don’t know why. The storyline was good, it had plenty of mystery. I think I found it hard to relate to the characters, I don’t know 🤷♀️. But I’m sure others out there will enjoy it. It is riddled with emotional baggage, but that only adds to the mystery. Overall, I did enjoy the read, but I just don’t know why it didn’t move me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 31, 2020
First time author and I am HAPPY
This is a modern retelling of beauty and the Beast in Mafia style 😌 can this get any better
Loved everything the MC's (Belle and Leo) were Perfect , the secondary characters God don't know were to Begin, Belle's sisters , Luna and Nico , Leo's sister and father , all characters were special and interesting, this was steamy (the sex was freaking HOT) angsty heart pounding and mystery LOVED IT ❤ and enjoyed everything
So excited about Luna and Nico
This is a modern retelling of beauty and the Beast in Mafia style 😌 can this get any better
Loved everything the MC's (Belle and Leo) were Perfect , the secondary characters God don't know were to Begin, Belle's sisters , Luna and Nico , Leo's sister and father , all characters were special and interesting, this was steamy (the sex was freaking HOT) angsty heart pounding and mystery LOVED IT ❤ and enjoyed everything
So excited about Luna and Nico
December 29, 2020
*ARC received for honest review*
I'm a whore for fairytale retellings, especially when it's a Beauty and the Beast one so it's no suprise that I jumped at the chance to read this book. I mean, who doesn't want to read about a dominating, dark, alpha, huge hunk of a man that has a twisted side AND he belongs to the mafia? Sign me the fuck up. Yeah, unfortunately, I didn't get what I wanted. The beast was sappy. He was so whipped, he seemed weak and Belle was just plain old boring. What makes it disappointing for me is that it felt like I was just given everything to me on a plate as soon as the characters met. No. Give me angst. Give me longing. Give me the chase. Give me something interesting.
The story truly picks up after the 55% mark so you'd have to be truly patient for the mafia themes to kick in. I found one side character more alpha and interesting than the Beast and honestly, it was HIS story that kept me reading.
Overall, I've read several retellings and this one doesn't have anything to make it stand out or make it memorable by any means.
I'm a whore for fairytale retellings, especially when it's a Beauty and the Beast one so it's no suprise that I jumped at the chance to read this book. I mean, who doesn't want to read about a dominating, dark, alpha, huge hunk of a man that has a twisted side AND he belongs to the mafia? Sign me the fuck up. Yeah, unfortunately, I didn't get what I wanted. The beast was sappy. He was so whipped, he seemed weak and Belle was just plain old boring. What makes it disappointing for me is that it felt like I was just given everything to me on a plate as soon as the characters met. No. Give me angst. Give me longing. Give me the chase. Give me something interesting.
The story truly picks up after the 55% mark so you'd have to be truly patient for the mafia themes to kick in. I found one side character more alpha and interesting than the Beast and honestly, it was HIS story that kept me reading.
Overall, I've read several retellings and this one doesn't have anything to make it stand out or make it memorable by any means.
December 29, 2020
A take on the classic Beauty and the Beast tale with a mafia twist. Belle had spent her entire life in Silver Falls with her two sisters and inventor father, but she craves for something more, not just a new place to see but someone to love and be loved by. When her father phones telling his daughters of a misunderstanding at a house in the forest, Belle senses somethings not right and leaves to find her father.
Leo knew the moment he first heard Belle's voice in the phone to her father that he had to see her, but when she arrives to help her father he knows he can not let her leave. So when Belle offers herself as his house keeper until Christmas in exchange for letting her father go, he accepts. Belle feels drawn to Leo just as Leo feels drawn to her but will that all change when she sees the man hidden in the shadows and what secrets he hides? Is Leo the only one close to Belle hiding secrets? Can Belle and Leo over come the danger heading their way for a HEA? This is well written story with an engaging storyline that's in depth and developed, nicely paced through out. Woth action suspense, violence desires, trust, loyalty, betrayals love and loss.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Leo knew the moment he first heard Belle's voice in the phone to her father that he had to see her, but when she arrives to help her father he knows he can not let her leave. So when Belle offers herself as his house keeper until Christmas in exchange for letting her father go, he accepts. Belle feels drawn to Leo just as Leo feels drawn to her but will that all change when she sees the man hidden in the shadows and what secrets he hides? Is Leo the only one close to Belle hiding secrets? Can Belle and Leo over come the danger heading their way for a HEA? This is well written story with an engaging storyline that's in depth and developed, nicely paced through out. Woth action suspense, violence desires, trust, loyalty, betrayals love and loss.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 17, 2021
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Reading this almost felt like reading two different books.
When her father is caught trespassing in a mysterious man’s castle and accused of stealing a precious jewel, Belle offers herself in her father’s stead as recompense for the alleged pilferage. What Belle doesn’t expect is the soul-deep attraction she feels toward the stranger when he accepts her offer to remain with him for three months as his housekeeper. The stranger - referred to as a beast by Belle’s father - keeps his face hidden in the shadows for fear of frightening her away. But when Belle finally sees Leo, she doesn’t back away. Instead, she moves forward.
Now this may sound like the beginnings of a fairy tale retelling, and it certainly felt that way to me with its deep, dark forest; hidden palace, hot stranger, and peculiar bargain, but it’s not. This is, instead, a completely contemporary story that executes a quick switchback shortly after Belle agrees to remain with Leo.
From here, the book turns into an insta-love obsession on both character’s parts. I mean, as soon as the front door closes on Belle’s father, Belle and Leo are pretty much getting it on on the foyer floor. And right then, Leo voices his plan to impregnate Belle and make her his forever. Creeper much? For her part, Belle isn’t too bothered by this, actually.
And this is pretty much where the fairy tale-feel ends. As events unfold, we are witness to a dark Mafia romance, which is quite a switch from the charming fairy tale-like exposition of the tale.
That isn’t to say this is a bad thing, because it’s not; the story carries itself on its own merit because the writing is pretty darn solid. And make no mistake; there is quite a bit of erotica in it, and they are not short scenes, either. Leo is the quintessential dirty talker, and Belle doesn’t do too badly herself.
Aside from the quick plot switch, the biggest dings I’m giving the book are for its title and cover. The title is really completely repulsive; I’m surprised I even chose to read the book because it was that much of a turn off. Secondly, Leo is described as having long, golden hair and dark blue eyes. The dude on the cover is NOT Leo.
I would be open to reading more from author Aria Blue because I feel she has some real writing talent. I hope, however, she rethinks her titles and cover choices more carefully next time.
Reading this almost felt like reading two different books.
When her father is caught trespassing in a mysterious man’s castle and accused of stealing a precious jewel, Belle offers herself in her father’s stead as recompense for the alleged pilferage. What Belle doesn’t expect is the soul-deep attraction she feels toward the stranger when he accepts her offer to remain with him for three months as his housekeeper. The stranger - referred to as a beast by Belle’s father - keeps his face hidden in the shadows for fear of frightening her away. But when Belle finally sees Leo, she doesn’t back away. Instead, she moves forward.
Now this may sound like the beginnings of a fairy tale retelling, and it certainly felt that way to me with its deep, dark forest; hidden palace, hot stranger, and peculiar bargain, but it’s not. This is, instead, a completely contemporary story that executes a quick switchback shortly after Belle agrees to remain with Leo.
From here, the book turns into an insta-love obsession on both character’s parts. I mean, as soon as the front door closes on Belle’s father, Belle and Leo are pretty much getting it on on the foyer floor. And right then, Leo voices his plan to impregnate Belle and make her his forever. Creeper much? For her part, Belle isn’t too bothered by this, actually.
And this is pretty much where the fairy tale-feel ends. As events unfold, we are witness to a dark Mafia romance, which is quite a switch from the charming fairy tale-like exposition of the tale.
That isn’t to say this is a bad thing, because it’s not; the story carries itself on its own merit because the writing is pretty darn solid. And make no mistake; there is quite a bit of erotica in it, and they are not short scenes, either. Leo is the quintessential dirty talker, and Belle doesn’t do too badly herself.
Aside from the quick plot switch, the biggest dings I’m giving the book are for its title and cover. The title is really completely repulsive; I’m surprised I even chose to read the book because it was that much of a turn off. Secondly, Leo is described as having long, golden hair and dark blue eyes. The dude on the cover is NOT Leo.
I would be open to reading more from author Aria Blue because I feel she has some real writing talent. I hope, however, she rethinks her titles and cover choices more carefully next time.
December 31, 2020
Book Title: Knocked Up By The Beast
Author: Aria R. Blue
Format: E-Book
Book Title: The book title is absolutely appropriate to the story.
Book Cover: The cover is HOT and will make you melt in all the right places.
My review:
The story is a re-telling of beauty and the beast and also has a mafia theme sprinkled through the second half of the story! The element of age gap adds that hotness factor to the story for me! I am a sucker for fairy tale retelling especially with it is about Beauty and the Beast but for some reason I couldn't enjoy the book to its full potential.
I expected the book to have an alpha hero who'd be a little more growl-y and not give in easily. That there be angst and slow burn but the hero turned out to be very puppy-ish. The story also felt a little dragged and could do without a couple of chapters. But I did love how Leo was protective of Belle. When Leo and Belle were together the chemistry was off the charts!
Belle on the other hand is this naïve innocent girl who feels that she doesn't fit anywhere and is filled with curiosity and craves a life that is filled with love and wants her own happily ever after! Even though she's innocent, she has this innate ability to distinguish right from wrong and has a backbone to stand for her own self!
Overall, I'd say the book is one time read but is spicy enough that you'll need a DND sign outside your bedroom because you'll be left panting!
Final Verdict
Title: 4/5
Cover: 4/5
Plot:3.5/5
Characters:3/5
Language and Vocabulary: 4/5
Final overall rating:3/5
Author: Aria R. Blue
Format: E-Book
Book Title: The book title is absolutely appropriate to the story.
Book Cover: The cover is HOT and will make you melt in all the right places.
My review:
The story is a re-telling of beauty and the beast and also has a mafia theme sprinkled through the second half of the story! The element of age gap adds that hotness factor to the story for me! I am a sucker for fairy tale retelling especially with it is about Beauty and the Beast but for some reason I couldn't enjoy the book to its full potential.
I expected the book to have an alpha hero who'd be a little more growl-y and not give in easily. That there be angst and slow burn but the hero turned out to be very puppy-ish. The story also felt a little dragged and could do without a couple of chapters. But I did love how Leo was protective of Belle. When Leo and Belle were together the chemistry was off the charts!
Belle on the other hand is this naïve innocent girl who feels that she doesn't fit anywhere and is filled with curiosity and craves a life that is filled with love and wants her own happily ever after! Even though she's innocent, she has this innate ability to distinguish right from wrong and has a backbone to stand for her own self!
Overall, I'd say the book is one time read but is spicy enough that you'll need a DND sign outside your bedroom because you'll be left panting!
Final Verdict
Title: 4/5
Cover: 4/5
Plot:3.5/5
Characters:3/5
Language and Vocabulary: 4/5
Final overall rating:3/5
January 10, 2021
Belle finds her Beast - with a yummy mafia twist
This is my first read by Aria and I am impressed with how well she adapted the fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast into a modern day mafia romance. I love how the story progressed and secrets were revealed slowly rather than all in your face at once...and if you love filthy talking, scarred heroes you are gonna love Leo. This story has it all - a beautiful young woman that is just as strong willed as she is full of love; a hero with a heart of gold, a dirty mouth, and a few secrets - the chemistry between these two are off the charts!! - and a plot that will take you thru some twists and turn but have you smiling by the end. This is on the lighter side of what I usually read, but I definitely enjoyed it none the less.
This is my first read by Aria and I am impressed with how well she adapted the fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast into a modern day mafia romance. I love how the story progressed and secrets were revealed slowly rather than all in your face at once...and if you love filthy talking, scarred heroes you are gonna love Leo. This story has it all - a beautiful young woman that is just as strong willed as she is full of love; a hero with a heart of gold, a dirty mouth, and a few secrets - the chemistry between these two are off the charts!! - and a plot that will take you thru some twists and turn but have you smiling by the end. This is on the lighter side of what I usually read, but I definitely enjoyed it none the less.
December 13, 2022
DNF at 35%
I wanted to like this series. I love a fairytale retelling. This story started off almost young adult fairytale and then flipped to very spicy. Then back to young fairytale story. It was a bit of whiplash. It got a little silly and I just couldn't continue. Not for me.
I wanted to like this series. I love a fairytale retelling. This story started off almost young adult fairytale and then flipped to very spicy. Then back to young fairytale story. It was a bit of whiplash. It got a little silly and I just couldn't continue. Not for me.
September 7, 2025
would recommend to a friend
February 15, 2021
Who doesn’t like a modern Beauty and the Beast retelling?
Belle lives with her two sisters and father in a small town. But when he gets caught stealing, Belle offers to trade places with him; she’ll work for Leo and her father goes free. What she didn’t expect was to fall for Leo almost instantly.
But Leo had secrets he can’t share. And when someone threatens Belle’s life, he turns to his old life to make sure she’s safe. Only things aren’t always what they seem.
Belle and Leo get their happy ending in this stand-alone book.
I loved how Leo was described as a beast for having a beard and longer hair. And it seems like he had a birthmark covering half his face as well, which he tried to hide. Belle may have been a bit too naive for twenty-two, and I don’t get how Leo didn’t hurt her more the first time they had sex, as it was her first time and he was described as having another arm down there.
I received an advanced review copy for free from Book Sirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Belle lives with her two sisters and father in a small town. But when he gets caught stealing, Belle offers to trade places with him; she’ll work for Leo and her father goes free. What she didn’t expect was to fall for Leo almost instantly.
But Leo had secrets he can’t share. And when someone threatens Belle’s life, he turns to his old life to make sure she’s safe. Only things aren’t always what they seem.
Belle and Leo get their happy ending in this stand-alone book.
I loved how Leo was described as a beast for having a beard and longer hair. And it seems like he had a birthmark covering half his face as well, which he tried to hide. Belle may have been a bit too naive for twenty-two, and I don’t get how Leo didn’t hurt her more the first time they had sex, as it was her first time and he was described as having another arm down there.
I received an advanced review copy for free from Book Sirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Want to read
June 20, 2024🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/20/2022)! 🎁
June 11, 2021
🌶️🌶️🌶️ for the spicy stuff
⭐ ⭐ for the actual plot
Oh god, this chick is SO indecisive. Like woman, WHAT DO YOU WANT! Not even going to lie, I didn't properly finish this book. I skimmed, SKIMMED, the last 10 percent. What kind of conflict was that? GOD! I thought this was Beauty and the Beast meets MAFIA! This was not mafia-worthy conflict, and I'm so disappointed, because I really really wanted to like this book.
If you're gonna read it for the spice, by all means..Leo does not disappoint, just saying 🌶️
-
BookSirens review
Disappointed. That’s how I felt when I finished this book. Both the plot, of book 1 and book 2, drew me in, and so too did the cover. I mean, how could I not be excited about this book? It’s supposed to be a modern Beauty and the Beast retelling meets the mafia, with a bookworm heroine and a beastly hero with a soft spot for his Belle, and his Belle only.
Like I expected, it was a love/lust at first sight story. Usually not my cup of tea, but I let it slide because it was a B&tB retelling, one of my favorite fairytales. It’s what I had expected, but what I had really hoped for was a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers. Think about it. Wouldn’t that make more sense in this story? Belle is literally traded by her own father to a man he doesn’t know, a man he doesn’t trust, one even he doesn’t want to be around. Wouldn’t it make sense for Belle to feel only anger or resentment towards Leo? She’s trapped in a big and strange place, is not allowed to venture out to certain places, is one of three inhabitants and can’t freely come and go as she pleases. But I let it all slide, because of course I did. Again, it was supposed to be B&tB meets mafia, of course I’d let it slide.
Now correct me if I’m wrong, but this is supposed to take place in the modern world, right? Chicago, USA. In the 2010’s or 2020’s. Which is why I was so, so confused by all the fantasy elements/details they kept in this modern retelling. The red-headed woman, the disfigurement, the necklace, the forbidden wing? But besides the ‘fantasy’ in this, I was also confused by so many details and questions that were left unanswered. Mainly the red-headed woman and the disfigurement. WHO was that woman? WHY had she said what she said? HOW did she know about Belle’s situation and her supposed future? And the disfigurement? HOW did that happen? They never told us, really. And that really bothered me. They could’ve worked that into the story really well, made him go from Prince to Beast with a little backstory for his discoloration.
And this all brings me back to the ‘retelling’ of Beauty and the Beast. Why, pray tell, did they have to leave so many of the fairytale’s elements in this retelling? Those details, for me, were so unnecessary and left unexplained. They ended up not making much sense to me. The forbidden wing, for example. The rose, I liked. It was a ring turned necklace and back into a ring, instead of it being an actual rose. I liked that, a lot. But everything else? I did not. Unfortunately.
The plot itself sounded so, so good. But the execution of it all? It could’ve been much, much better. At least in my opinion.
For one, the drama in this all was not my favorite. It was drama for the sake of drama. And the family? The men? Maybe it’s just me, but I’m so used to reading mafia romance with heroes who are stone-cold killers, but always a sweetheart for their women. But Leo? So, so soft. And his father? I thought they were much too emotional in this story.
The conflict in this was not what I had expected nor hoped for. It was very underwhelming and unsatisfying. But that was honestly not on Leo.
Now the characters? Oh Lord. Words to describe our heroine? Annoying, obnoxious, indecisive. The indecisiveness was the thing that really, really, really bothered me about Belle. Back at home, with her two sisters and her father, she was the one who made most of the decisions, she was the one putting food on the table, the one who kept the family together. But as soon as she leaves her home and starts living in the Blackwood estate, suddenly she’s indecisive about everything. Every decision she made annoyed me to no end. I did not like Belle.
Leo, compared to Belle, was much more tolerable. Sure, he was a scary and grumpy man. Yes, he was the size of a bear. Yes, he looked murderous. And yes, he was annoyingly in love with Belle. But really, he was also the kind of man many would want. He’s caring, he’s attentive and he would literally do anything and everything Belle wanted. So yes, Leo was much more tolerable compared to Belle.
I really wanted to like this book, but unfortunately for me, that was not the case. But if you’re just looking for a smutty book, plot not too important? Go right ahead. Belle and Leo are so horny for each other and the first explicit scene was at the 14% mark, so yeah.
For the entire book, I’d rate it a 2 stars.
For the spice alone? Well, I’ll rate it 3.5 red-hot chili-peppers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐ ⭐ for the actual plot
Oh god, this chick is SO indecisive. Like woman, WHAT DO YOU WANT! Not even going to lie, I didn't properly finish this book. I skimmed, SKIMMED, the last 10 percent. What kind of conflict was that? GOD! I thought this was Beauty and the Beast meets MAFIA! This was not mafia-worthy conflict, and I'm so disappointed, because I really really wanted to like this book.
If you're gonna read it for the spice, by all means..Leo does not disappoint, just saying 🌶️
-
BookSirens review
Disappointed. That’s how I felt when I finished this book. Both the plot, of book 1 and book 2, drew me in, and so too did the cover. I mean, how could I not be excited about this book? It’s supposed to be a modern Beauty and the Beast retelling meets the mafia, with a bookworm heroine and a beastly hero with a soft spot for his Belle, and his Belle only.
Like I expected, it was a love/lust at first sight story. Usually not my cup of tea, but I let it slide because it was a B&tB retelling, one of my favorite fairytales. It’s what I had expected, but what I had really hoped for was a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers. Think about it. Wouldn’t that make more sense in this story? Belle is literally traded by her own father to a man he doesn’t know, a man he doesn’t trust, one even he doesn’t want to be around. Wouldn’t it make sense for Belle to feel only anger or resentment towards Leo? She’s trapped in a big and strange place, is not allowed to venture out to certain places, is one of three inhabitants and can’t freely come and go as she pleases. But I let it all slide, because of course I did. Again, it was supposed to be B&tB meets mafia, of course I’d let it slide.
Now correct me if I’m wrong, but this is supposed to take place in the modern world, right? Chicago, USA. In the 2010’s or 2020’s. Which is why I was so, so confused by all the fantasy elements/details they kept in this modern retelling. The red-headed woman, the disfigurement, the necklace, the forbidden wing? But besides the ‘fantasy’ in this, I was also confused by so many details and questions that were left unanswered. Mainly the red-headed woman and the disfigurement. WHO was that woman? WHY had she said what she said? HOW did she know about Belle’s situation and her supposed future? And the disfigurement? HOW did that happen? They never told us, really. And that really bothered me. They could’ve worked that into the story really well, made him go from Prince to Beast with a little backstory for his discoloration.
And this all brings me back to the ‘retelling’ of Beauty and the Beast. Why, pray tell, did they have to leave so many of the fairytale’s elements in this retelling? Those details, for me, were so unnecessary and left unexplained. They ended up not making much sense to me. The forbidden wing, for example. The rose, I liked. It was a ring turned necklace and back into a ring, instead of it being an actual rose. I liked that, a lot. But everything else? I did not. Unfortunately.
The plot itself sounded so, so good. But the execution of it all? It could’ve been much, much better. At least in my opinion.
For one, the drama in this all was not my favorite. It was drama for the sake of drama. And the family? The men? Maybe it’s just me, but I’m so used to reading mafia romance with heroes who are stone-cold killers, but always a sweetheart for their women. But Leo? So, so soft. And his father? I thought they were much too emotional in this story.
The conflict in this was not what I had expected nor hoped for. It was very underwhelming and unsatisfying. But that was honestly not on Leo.
Now the characters? Oh Lord. Words to describe our heroine? Annoying, obnoxious, indecisive. The indecisiveness was the thing that really, really, really bothered me about Belle. Back at home, with her two sisters and her father, she was the one who made most of the decisions, she was the one putting food on the table, the one who kept the family together. But as soon as she leaves her home and starts living in the Blackwood estate, suddenly she’s indecisive about everything. Every decision she made annoyed me to no end. I did not like Belle.
Leo, compared to Belle, was much more tolerable. Sure, he was a scary and grumpy man. Yes, he was the size of a bear. Yes, he looked murderous. And yes, he was annoyingly in love with Belle. But really, he was also the kind of man many would want. He’s caring, he’s attentive and he would literally do anything and everything Belle wanted. So yes, Leo was much more tolerable compared to Belle.
I really wanted to like this book, but unfortunately for me, that was not the case. But if you’re just looking for a smutty book, plot not too important? Go right ahead. Belle and Leo are so horny for each other and the first explicit scene was at the 14% mark, so yeah.
For the entire book, I’d rate it a 2 stars.
For the spice alone? Well, I’ll rate it 3.5 red-hot chili-peppers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2024
man has a dirty mouth and mind
Great book but I was left with questions I’m not sure all will be answered in the next book. But the couple, Belle and Leo get their happy ending in this one!
This is a retelling of beauty and the beast in a modern day setting.
***spoilers
Belle (middle sis) lives at home with her two sisters, Hazel (oldest) and Julie (youngest), and their father. Their father is an inventor, and he is very focused on his projects. Even when he spends time with his daughters, he’s not mentally there. The girls have accepted it, and tried to enjoy the time that they have with him. Hazel is mute by choice. She went to New York, but came back and hasn’t said one word since she’s come back. She will communicate silently. Clearly something traumatic happened there, but there’s not even a hint, hopefully it’s in another book. Ivy is a wild and free young woman who loves to paint. Belle is the caretaker of the family and she loves to read.
Bell has a secret that she has kept from everybody including her family: when she went to her dance in high school, her date Kane r%fied her and took clotheless pictures of her and showed the school. She stays hidden in the shadows after that but she feels the town still looking at her with disgust, even though she is almost 22. Kane grew up to be the sheriff.
Belle gets a call from her father saying he’s in a situation because he is accused of stealing from Leo, who everybody calls the beast. Her father does tell her not to come.
Belle, of course goes to rescue her father. Instead of Leo, calling the police Belle offers to clean his house for three months and hopes that he won’t get Kane involved.
Leo is a wealthy man living in a mansion in the woods. He also has secrets. Even though it doesn’t reveal the secrets till later, they are he is a part of a Chicago mafia, and there is a woman, Luna, that lives with him. He is protecting her from her husband, Nico. Luna has a child, Thomas. The last secret that makes no sense and it doesn’t explain in any way shape or form is that Leo has a daughter, Kelsey. She is not his biologically, but somebody left her on his doorstep and he has become guardian over her. But that’s all the book says it doesn’t go into detail, so I’m super confused about that. Hopefully in another book, it explains. He also has a sister, Ivy that is away in college.
Belle is told not to go into the west wing. This is where Leo is keeping his secrets. They have an instant attraction and they make out but they don’t go all the way as she feels it’s wrong because he’s gonna be her boss. They get over it and and they end up getting together.
Belle sees Luna and she’s immediately jealous thinking that Leo has many women. Leo, instead of coming clean, which is understandable, because they did just meet, evades a lot of her questions. so of course she’s left confused.
Nico attempts to shoot at them when they’re on a date, to get Leo’s attention because he just wants to talk to his wife Luna, who he knows is with Leo.
This makes Leo feel he’s got to go back to Chicago to tie up loose ends so his mafia background won’t come back to Belle. Leo leaves her, letting her know that he will be gone for a couple of months. Belle knows that she’s pregnant at this moment, but doesn’t get a chance to tell Leo before he leaves. Belle stays with her family back at their cottage. Leo leaves four female bodyguards to protect her and watch over her.
Leo reconciled with his father for their past. Ivy, Leo sister, wants to be part of the mafia and his training under their father. A lot of back-and-forth mafia business happens, but you find out that it was all staged by Leo’s father, because he wanted Leo to come home to reconcile. There isn’t a true war. Leo‘s father is dying from cancer.
Nico abduct, Ivy and Belle, in order to force Leo to let him talk to Luna. Leo calls Luna and ask for a favor for her to come and talk to him so he doesn’t hurt Ivy or Belle. Luna Luna pretends to want to be with him to get the upper hand and save the girls. Even though Luna was pretending, the feelings were real as she still does love her husband she just can’t get over whatever betrayal he did. It doesn’t even begin to touch on this. Nico does not know that he has a child.
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot: 👩🏻💻📑📑📑📑
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Red Flags: 🚩🚩🚩
Kinks: 🫦🫦🫦
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😫🤬🥵😍 🫤
Ending: 👩🏻❤️👨🏻 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
Great book but I was left with questions I’m not sure all will be answered in the next book. But the couple, Belle and Leo get their happy ending in this one!
This is a retelling of beauty and the beast in a modern day setting.
***spoilers
Belle (middle sis) lives at home with her two sisters, Hazel (oldest) and Julie (youngest), and their father. Their father is an inventor, and he is very focused on his projects. Even when he spends time with his daughters, he’s not mentally there. The girls have accepted it, and tried to enjoy the time that they have with him. Hazel is mute by choice. She went to New York, but came back and hasn’t said one word since she’s come back. She will communicate silently. Clearly something traumatic happened there, but there’s not even a hint, hopefully it’s in another book. Ivy is a wild and free young woman who loves to paint. Belle is the caretaker of the family and she loves to read.
Bell has a secret that she has kept from everybody including her family: when she went to her dance in high school, her date Kane r%fied her and took clotheless pictures of her and showed the school. She stays hidden in the shadows after that but she feels the town still looking at her with disgust, even though she is almost 22. Kane grew up to be the sheriff.
Belle gets a call from her father saying he’s in a situation because he is accused of stealing from Leo, who everybody calls the beast. Her father does tell her not to come.
Belle, of course goes to rescue her father. Instead of Leo, calling the police Belle offers to clean his house for three months and hopes that he won’t get Kane involved.
Leo is a wealthy man living in a mansion in the woods. He also has secrets. Even though it doesn’t reveal the secrets till later, they are he is a part of a Chicago mafia, and there is a woman, Luna, that lives with him. He is protecting her from her husband, Nico. Luna has a child, Thomas. The last secret that makes no sense and it doesn’t explain in any way shape or form is that Leo has a daughter, Kelsey. She is not his biologically, but somebody left her on his doorstep and he has become guardian over her. But that’s all the book says it doesn’t go into detail, so I’m super confused about that. Hopefully in another book, it explains. He also has a sister, Ivy that is away in college.
Belle is told not to go into the west wing. This is where Leo is keeping his secrets. They have an instant attraction and they make out but they don’t go all the way as she feels it’s wrong because he’s gonna be her boss. They get over it and and they end up getting together.
Belle sees Luna and she’s immediately jealous thinking that Leo has many women. Leo, instead of coming clean, which is understandable, because they did just meet, evades a lot of her questions. so of course she’s left confused.
Nico attempts to shoot at them when they’re on a date, to get Leo’s attention because he just wants to talk to his wife Luna, who he knows is with Leo.
This makes Leo feel he’s got to go back to Chicago to tie up loose ends so his mafia background won’t come back to Belle. Leo leaves her, letting her know that he will be gone for a couple of months. Belle knows that she’s pregnant at this moment, but doesn’t get a chance to tell Leo before he leaves. Belle stays with her family back at their cottage. Leo leaves four female bodyguards to protect her and watch over her.
Leo reconciled with his father for their past. Ivy, Leo sister, wants to be part of the mafia and his training under their father. A lot of back-and-forth mafia business happens, but you find out that it was all staged by Leo’s father, because he wanted Leo to come home to reconcile. There isn’t a true war. Leo‘s father is dying from cancer.
Nico abduct, Ivy and Belle, in order to force Leo to let him talk to Luna. Leo calls Luna and ask for a favor for her to come and talk to him so he doesn’t hurt Ivy or Belle. Luna Luna pretends to want to be with him to get the upper hand and save the girls. Even though Luna was pretending, the feelings were real as she still does love her husband she just can’t get over whatever betrayal he did. It doesn’t even begin to touch on this. Nico does not know that he has a child.
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot: 👩🏻💻📑📑📑📑
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Red Flags: 🚩🚩🚩
Kinks: 🫦🫦🫦
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😫🤬🥵😍 🫤
Ending: 👩🏻❤️👨🏻 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
January 9, 2021
A Tale for True Romantics
Despite its coarse title, Knocked Up by the Beast is a novel for true romantics. However, you must be a dreamer and a believer to fully embrace its Beauty-&-the-Beast-inspired storyline. It’s a good job Aria Blue’s engaging first-person narration is able to keep you turning the pages.
The opening chapters are surprisingly sweet as events draw Belle and Leo together. Given the title, I expected crime, violence, and foul language. Instead, they read like the sweet romances beloved by Hallmark Chanel viewers. Indeed, the notions of true love introduced in the second chapter will appeal to Stephenie Meyer’s fangirls.
However, unlike Twilight, explicit sexual thoughts and actions soon invade the narrative. Up until Belle and Leo meet, this book could happily sit on the shelves of a Sunday School library. After that, Bella Swan would faint. By the midpoint of the story, we learn why this romance novel is subtitled A Mafia Romance.
The second half of this book is more like an organized crime novel. Its plotline and tone make it feel like a completely different book. That isn’t a bad thing because it means you will get two books in one. First, you read a gothic romance set in a country mansion with a witch and other fairytale characters. Second, you read a crime novel in an urban setting with the same characters but much more realism.
With secrets in the West Wing reminiscent of the Mad Woman in the Attic and mobsters going crazy in the streets of Chicago, there are plenty of shocks and surprises to keep the reader interested. Unlike many novels, this romance does not sag in the middle. The midpoint is where the story pacing really picks up. Both Belle and Leo are given bigger things to worry about.
As the various plotlines are resolved in the final chapters, you won’t be disappointed. As I said, this is a novel for romantics. There are plenty of smiles to go around along with a few loose ends left hanging to hint at later books in the series to come.
I gave this book 4/5. For me, the initial chapters read more like a fantasy than a contemporary romance. Also, I didn’t feel like the two protagonists really had to struggle to get together. There were not enough emotional barriers for them to push through. I liked the second half of the book much more. The stakes were higher and the conflicts easier to perceive. That made the resolution all the sweeter.
Despite its coarse title, Knocked Up by the Beast is a novel for true romantics. However, you must be a dreamer and a believer to fully embrace its Beauty-&-the-Beast-inspired storyline. It’s a good job Aria Blue’s engaging first-person narration is able to keep you turning the pages.
The opening chapters are surprisingly sweet as events draw Belle and Leo together. Given the title, I expected crime, violence, and foul language. Instead, they read like the sweet romances beloved by Hallmark Chanel viewers. Indeed, the notions of true love introduced in the second chapter will appeal to Stephenie Meyer’s fangirls.
However, unlike Twilight, explicit sexual thoughts and actions soon invade the narrative. Up until Belle and Leo meet, this book could happily sit on the shelves of a Sunday School library. After that, Bella Swan would faint. By the midpoint of the story, we learn why this romance novel is subtitled A Mafia Romance.
The second half of this book is more like an organized crime novel. Its plotline and tone make it feel like a completely different book. That isn’t a bad thing because it means you will get two books in one. First, you read a gothic romance set in a country mansion with a witch and other fairytale characters. Second, you read a crime novel in an urban setting with the same characters but much more realism.
With secrets in the West Wing reminiscent of the Mad Woman in the Attic and mobsters going crazy in the streets of Chicago, there are plenty of shocks and surprises to keep the reader interested. Unlike many novels, this romance does not sag in the middle. The midpoint is where the story pacing really picks up. Both Belle and Leo are given bigger things to worry about.
As the various plotlines are resolved in the final chapters, you won’t be disappointed. As I said, this is a novel for romantics. There are plenty of smiles to go around along with a few loose ends left hanging to hint at later books in the series to come.
I gave this book 4/5. For me, the initial chapters read more like a fantasy than a contemporary romance. Also, I didn’t feel like the two protagonists really had to struggle to get together. There were not enough emotional barriers for them to push through. I liked the second half of the book much more. The stakes were higher and the conflicts easier to perceive. That made the resolution all the sweeter.
May 29, 2021
“I already know that she’s not going to make it easy for me. But I will fight with my dying breath that if that’s what it takes to win her heart.”
A Beauty and the Beast retelling, with a mafia twist, and throw in age gap as well? Sign me up! When I heard about this book I jumped at the chance to read it because I love a good mafia romance.
When Belle’s father is caught breaking in and trying to steal something from a large estate in the middle of the forest, she comes to his aid and meets the owner of the estate Leo Blackwood. There is an instant connection that both Belle and Leo feel, so she makes an offer to stay and work for Leo as a housekeeper for 3 months in exchange for her father being let go and the police not being involved. Leo agrees to the offer because all he can think about is having her in his home. While Belle knows that she feels a connection with Leo she tries to keep things professional but it doesn’t last very long. The chemistry between Leo and Belle is explosive and they can’t keep their hands off each other and soon fall in love. However, Leo is keeping secrets from Belle because he’s afraid that it will turn her away from him.
While this book is said to be a mafia romance it’s actually very light in regards to the mafia politics that I’m accustomed to reading. I was actually really okay with that because what I love most about the mafia romance is the protective and possessive nature of the male MC and we still got that in this book. I don’t always go for the instalove stories but I really liked that Leo knew from the beginning that Belle was for him and he was going to wait however long it took for her to realize it as well.
I really enjoyed getting to know Belle and Leo and learning their stories. And the steam in this book is crazy hot! I was definitely fanning myself more than a few times because of the sex scenes. I also loved the secondary characters, especially Julie, Ivy, and Luna, and I’m hoping to read more about them in future books.
This is the first book that I’ve read by this author and I really enjoyed it so I’ll definitely be checking out more books by her.
“I was going to wait for you for an entire lifetime, if that’s what it took. Do you know why?”
“Why?” she whispers.
”Because you’re worth it. You’re a gift, Belle. You’re the only pure thing in my cursed life, and I would be a fool to not fight for your love.”
A Beauty and the Beast retelling, with a mafia twist, and throw in age gap as well? Sign me up! When I heard about this book I jumped at the chance to read it because I love a good mafia romance.
When Belle’s father is caught breaking in and trying to steal something from a large estate in the middle of the forest, she comes to his aid and meets the owner of the estate Leo Blackwood. There is an instant connection that both Belle and Leo feel, so she makes an offer to stay and work for Leo as a housekeeper for 3 months in exchange for her father being let go and the police not being involved. Leo agrees to the offer because all he can think about is having her in his home. While Belle knows that she feels a connection with Leo she tries to keep things professional but it doesn’t last very long. The chemistry between Leo and Belle is explosive and they can’t keep their hands off each other and soon fall in love. However, Leo is keeping secrets from Belle because he’s afraid that it will turn her away from him.
While this book is said to be a mafia romance it’s actually very light in regards to the mafia politics that I’m accustomed to reading. I was actually really okay with that because what I love most about the mafia romance is the protective and possessive nature of the male MC and we still got that in this book. I don’t always go for the instalove stories but I really liked that Leo knew from the beginning that Belle was for him and he was going to wait however long it took for her to realize it as well.
I really enjoyed getting to know Belle and Leo and learning their stories. And the steam in this book is crazy hot! I was definitely fanning myself more than a few times because of the sex scenes. I also loved the secondary characters, especially Julie, Ivy, and Luna, and I’m hoping to read more about them in future books.
This is the first book that I’ve read by this author and I really enjoyed it so I’ll definitely be checking out more books by her.
“I was going to wait for you for an entire lifetime, if that’s what it took. Do you know why?”
“Why?” she whispers.
”Because you’re worth it. You’re a gift, Belle. You’re the only pure thing in my cursed life, and I would be a fool to not fight for your love.”
December 29, 2020
Leo Blackwood has lived at Blackwood Estates with his secrets for a long time. The townspeople of Silver Falls are not aware of his mansion in the forest. Thus, when Belle Carpenter’s father is caught in the Blackwood mansion with Leo’s Rose Diamond pendant, Leo knows something is fishy. When Leo hears Belle’s voice over her father’s cellphone, he decides he is willing to make a trade Mr. Carpenter’s freedom for Belle’s. Three months.
This is the first novel I have read by Aria R. Blue. This modern twist to the “Beauty and the Beast” story is quite steamy and intriguing. Within the first 20 pages, it is obvious that Leo and Belle are going to end up together. Belle is at the mansion for about an hour when things between her and Leo get hot and heavy. I did enjoy the role-playing between Leo and Belle that seemed effortless. The intimate scenes between them were insanely steamy and hot. The flirtatious dialogue between the two was delicious and kept me reading well into the night. The pace of the novel is fast-paced at the beginning, however, slows down more than halfway through the novel. I felt the Chicago storyline was long and not that necessary. The mafia scenes acted as backstory for Leo and gave insight into his issues, but otherwise did not add much more depth to the plot. I would have liked to have known the details of the incident that led to Leo’s physical deformity.
There are several prominent secondary characters in this novel. They all have secrets that are screaming out for their own novels. The mafia scenes in this novel are not as detailed as I have read in other mafia-related novels, such as Liliana Rhodes Made Man Series. Aria R. Blue’s novel ends on a HEA. I’m looking forward to the next book in the novel to see what happens with some of the secondary characters and if Leo and Belle make another appearance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the first novel I have read by Aria R. Blue. This modern twist to the “Beauty and the Beast” story is quite steamy and intriguing. Within the first 20 pages, it is obvious that Leo and Belle are going to end up together. Belle is at the mansion for about an hour when things between her and Leo get hot and heavy. I did enjoy the role-playing between Leo and Belle that seemed effortless. The intimate scenes between them were insanely steamy and hot. The flirtatious dialogue between the two was delicious and kept me reading well into the night. The pace of the novel is fast-paced at the beginning, however, slows down more than halfway through the novel. I felt the Chicago storyline was long and not that necessary. The mafia scenes acted as backstory for Leo and gave insight into his issues, but otherwise did not add much more depth to the plot. I would have liked to have known the details of the incident that led to Leo’s physical deformity.
There are several prominent secondary characters in this novel. They all have secrets that are screaming out for their own novels. The mafia scenes in this novel are not as detailed as I have read in other mafia-related novels, such as Liliana Rhodes Made Man Series. Aria R. Blue’s novel ends on a HEA. I’m looking forward to the next book in the novel to see what happens with some of the secondary characters and if Leo and Belle make another appearance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 30, 2020
When Belle's father gets caught stealing from a large estate outside of town, she rushes to his aid. The owner, Leo Blackwood, is more than happy to exchange calling the cops for having Belle live with him as a housekeeper for 3 months. But as soon as the door closes behind Belle's father, he makes it clear that his intentions for her are far different. While Belle is on board with his passions, she wants to keep their relationship professional while she's in his service. He's nearly impossible to resist, but the secrets that surround him make her hesitant to give away her heart.
I have very mixed emotions about this book because it took a turn about halfway through and made me feel like I was suddenly transported to a different story. The first part of the story revolved almost solely around Belle and Leo living it up at his estate. The second part saw them carrying on in separate lives. Belle was with her family and Leo was dealing with his mafia ties. And speaking of those mafia ties, I had a really tough time buying into that aspect of the story. Maybe if the book had leaned heavily into the mafia angle throughout, I wouldn't have felt like it was so unnatural to focus on later.
Belle was pretty up and down in terms of maturity, but that didn't shock me considering she's a young, small-town h paired with an older, dominant H. I never quite got a grasp on his facial differences and what about them was so ghastly to most people. When he came clean to Belle and some of the mysteries of the story were revealed, I found some of the truth to be random and unnecessary.
This is meant to be a contemporary retooling of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, but there were very brief. vague, and unexplained pseudo-mystical elements in the middle and end of the book. Overall, the story was fine. I just wished that it had lived up to my expectations a bit more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have very mixed emotions about this book because it took a turn about halfway through and made me feel like I was suddenly transported to a different story. The first part of the story revolved almost solely around Belle and Leo living it up at his estate. The second part saw them carrying on in separate lives. Belle was with her family and Leo was dealing with his mafia ties. And speaking of those mafia ties, I had a really tough time buying into that aspect of the story. Maybe if the book had leaned heavily into the mafia angle throughout, I wouldn't have felt like it was so unnatural to focus on later.
Belle was pretty up and down in terms of maturity, but that didn't shock me considering she's a young, small-town h paired with an older, dominant H. I never quite got a grasp on his facial differences and what about them was so ghastly to most people. When he came clean to Belle and some of the mysteries of the story were revealed, I found some of the truth to be random and unnecessary.
This is meant to be a contemporary retooling of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, but there were very brief. vague, and unexplained pseudo-mystical elements in the middle and end of the book. Overall, the story was fine. I just wished that it had lived up to my expectations a bit more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 30, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was interesting. I'm not always a fan of different takes on classic fairytales, but sometimes the twists of classics is what makes it interesting. A few things excited me about this book:
1. Twist on a classic
2. It is labeled as a Dark Romance, which is usually Mafia or gang related if you aren't familiar. Sometimes it's fun to step away from reality
3. Belle has two mysterious sisters
Not sure if the author intends to take the book down other routes with her sisters, but I'd be interested to read them if she did. The book was pretty solidly written. There are a few things to prepare yourself for though, there is a level of fantasy and mysticism that the author introduces, which is not my favorite, but there you have it.
One of the things I love about romance is watching the development of the character's emotions and feelings develop...there was some of that here, but the instalust was pretty hard. It was one of those situations where the two protagonists were immediately infatuated and wanted to do it. The sex scenes were okay. You need to be good with a level of rough and name calling when you read this book to enjoy the sex scenes. There is a fair share of them as well, so be prepared for that.
The part that I wish the author had introduced earlier in the story was the mafia ties of Leo. It didn't come until a little over 50% into the book, which in my opinion, is too late as it became almost the sole focus for the last 50% of the book. There were a lot of loose ends at the end of the book, but to be honest, they didn't really matter unless you were hyper invested in the other characters.
All in all, it is a good read if you're looking for a fantasy to escape into.
This book was interesting. I'm not always a fan of different takes on classic fairytales, but sometimes the twists of classics is what makes it interesting. A few things excited me about this book:
1. Twist on a classic
2. It is labeled as a Dark Romance, which is usually Mafia or gang related if you aren't familiar. Sometimes it's fun to step away from reality
3. Belle has two mysterious sisters
Not sure if the author intends to take the book down other routes with her sisters, but I'd be interested to read them if she did. The book was pretty solidly written. There are a few things to prepare yourself for though, there is a level of fantasy and mysticism that the author introduces, which is not my favorite, but there you have it.
One of the things I love about romance is watching the development of the character's emotions and feelings develop...there was some of that here, but the instalust was pretty hard. It was one of those situations where the two protagonists were immediately infatuated and wanted to do it. The sex scenes were okay. You need to be good with a level of rough and name calling when you read this book to enjoy the sex scenes. There is a fair share of them as well, so be prepared for that.
The part that I wish the author had introduced earlier in the story was the mafia ties of Leo. It didn't come until a little over 50% into the book, which in my opinion, is too late as it became almost the sole focus for the last 50% of the book. There were a lot of loose ends at the end of the book, but to be honest, they didn't really matter unless you were hyper invested in the other characters.
All in all, it is a good read if you're looking for a fantasy to escape into.
January 18, 2021
I surprisingly enjoyed this retelling with a big touch of mafia. I love mafia related books so this was what was drawing me in the most!
The first sex scene is kind of messy and overdone. Its also in the very beginning and I wished it was a teeny tiny bit more out written. I could not feel any sexual tension between them maybe because this sex scene was too early on for my liking.
I would have wished for some more thoughts other than just „Oh I‘m hard lets bang the shit out of that girl“ and „Oh he’s so hot and I‘m so horny so make me cum“.
Some other little things bothered me in the beginning but I guess it was just the first third that was really slow for me.
After that I got to see that the author just tried to show the instant and deep connection between Belle and Leo.
Because after the first third I was blown away!!
And when we got to see what’s up with Leo and why he has some secrets I was hooked.
I loved how deep Leo cared for Belle and how she opened up for him.
Belle was feisty and curious and never feared Leo for what he was. She was interested in his character and wanted to know everything he was afraid telling her.
Belle valued Leo for what he was and didn‘t condemned him because of his face and I found that so sweet and tender.
I really liked how possessive and alpha Leo is and how he admires Belle. Besides his possessiveness he respects her decisions so bonus points for consent.
This book was intense, sexy, gripping and full of affectioness moments.
It’s a solid 4 star read for me :)
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The first sex scene is kind of messy and overdone. Its also in the very beginning and I wished it was a teeny tiny bit more out written. I could not feel any sexual tension between them maybe because this sex scene was too early on for my liking.
I would have wished for some more thoughts other than just „Oh I‘m hard lets bang the shit out of that girl“ and „Oh he’s so hot and I‘m so horny so make me cum“.
Some other little things bothered me in the beginning but I guess it was just the first third that was really slow for me.
After that I got to see that the author just tried to show the instant and deep connection between Belle and Leo.
Because after the first third I was blown away!!
And when we got to see what’s up with Leo and why he has some secrets I was hooked.
I loved how deep Leo cared for Belle and how she opened up for him.
Belle was feisty and curious and never feared Leo for what he was. She was interested in his character and wanted to know everything he was afraid telling her.
Belle valued Leo for what he was and didn‘t condemned him because of his face and I found that so sweet and tender.
I really liked how possessive and alpha Leo is and how he admires Belle. Besides his possessiveness he respects her decisions so bonus points for consent.
This book was intense, sexy, gripping and full of affectioness moments.
It’s a solid 4 star read for me :)
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 22, 2021
A modern mafia spin on this classic fairytale! Leo Blackwood and Belle Carpenter come from different worlds and one fateful day changed everything! Belle takes up the role as housekeeper at Blackwood Estate after her father was caught stealing a priceless piece of jewelry. In exchange for her service, Leo Blackwood wouldn’t turn in her father to the police. From the start there was something between them and it wasn’t long before they acted on those feelings. However, Leo has to confront his criminal past before he can have any kind of future with Belle.
I thought this book was okay. I knew it was a spin on Beauty and the Beast but after the first few chapters I realized I didn’t like the concept. I feel like there were certain things from the original fairy tale that just didn’t fit into this, mainly the witch and her prophecy and the Kane Cavenaugh character. I feel like they should have been done differently or I could have done without them. Also, going from Blackwood Estate to Chicago, the whole vibe of the book changed. It went from fairy tale feelings to gangster and it just didn’t flow well because of that. I would have enjoyed this as two separate books. One major thing I couldn’t get over was the sex talk. The way they were talking was totally not my thing and it was super cringy.
Overall, the book was okay. I would recommend it if you don’t have anything else lined up to read but it honestly wouldn’t be my first choice.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
I thought this book was okay. I knew it was a spin on Beauty and the Beast but after the first few chapters I realized I didn’t like the concept. I feel like there were certain things from the original fairy tale that just didn’t fit into this, mainly the witch and her prophecy and the Kane Cavenaugh character. I feel like they should have been done differently or I could have done without them. Also, going from Blackwood Estate to Chicago, the whole vibe of the book changed. It went from fairy tale feelings to gangster and it just didn’t flow well because of that. I would have enjoyed this as two separate books. One major thing I couldn’t get over was the sex talk. The way they were talking was totally not my thing and it was super cringy.
Overall, the book was okay. I would recommend it if you don’t have anything else lined up to read but it honestly wouldn’t be my first choice.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
March 7, 2023
Aria R Blue about melted my kindle with her Beauty and the Beast modern retelling
Hot diggity damn I thought my Kindle was gonna catch on fire and melt in my hands.
🥀
First time reading this author & I am SO HAPPY! This book has me in a chokehold, the high I have from this book 🥵🫠
🥀
This modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast in Mafia style can this get any better? It sure can…
🥀
Loved Belle and Leo, they were perfect.The chemistry between these two was off the charts. If you love filthy talking scarred heroes? Then you’ll LOVE LEO BLACKWOOD.🫠 This story has it all - a beautiful young hopeless romantic woman that is just as strong as she is full of love; a strong alpha hero with a heart of gold, a dirty mouth and few secrets. The steamy smut in this book… THE SEX WAS FUCKING FIRE!!! 🥵🔥 Angsty, heart pounding and mystery, I LOVED IT ALL!!!
🥀
Side characters a lot of times in most books that I have read lack something for me but these side characters are amazing like Oh My God I don't know where to begin with how Aria wrote her side characters: Belle’s sisters, Luna, Nico, Ivy (Leo’s sister) and Leo’s father, all them were so special and interesting.
🥀
And now I know why Beauty and the Beast was always my favorite Disney princess movie. It was preparing me for my love of books and smutty retellings.
🥀
Thank you Aria for this beautiful modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast with this Mafia twist.
🥀
PS… I need more modern smutty retellings like this book right here. Preferably Beauty and the Beast!
🥀
Hot diggity damn I thought my Kindle was gonna catch on fire and melt in my hands.
🥀
First time reading this author & I am SO HAPPY! This book has me in a chokehold, the high I have from this book 🥵🫠
🥀
This modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast in Mafia style can this get any better? It sure can…
🥀
Loved Belle and Leo, they were perfect.The chemistry between these two was off the charts. If you love filthy talking scarred heroes? Then you’ll LOVE LEO BLACKWOOD.🫠 This story has it all - a beautiful young hopeless romantic woman that is just as strong as she is full of love; a strong alpha hero with a heart of gold, a dirty mouth and few secrets. The steamy smut in this book… THE SEX WAS FUCKING FIRE!!! 🥵🔥 Angsty, heart pounding and mystery, I LOVED IT ALL!!!
🥀
Side characters a lot of times in most books that I have read lack something for me but these side characters are amazing like Oh My God I don't know where to begin with how Aria wrote her side characters: Belle’s sisters, Luna, Nico, Ivy (Leo’s sister) and Leo’s father, all them were so special and interesting.
🥀
And now I know why Beauty and the Beast was always my favorite Disney princess movie. It was preparing me for my love of books and smutty retellings.
🥀
Thank you Aria for this beautiful modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast with this Mafia twist.
🥀
PS… I need more modern smutty retellings like this book right here. Preferably Beauty and the Beast!
🥀
August 26, 2021
RECEIVED THIS FREE ARC FOR AN HONEST REVIEW! So we have yet another interpretation of a fairytale and let me tell you, I was expecting way more than I got. I'm not a fan of the constant re-telling of stories past. It then becomes extremely annoying and unoriginal. I chose to read this book because I thought that the Mafia twist would be what breaks the mold. It didn't. For a dark Mafia romance, it was pretty tame. The book was pretty much split in half with the first half being about the fairytale (a very naughty version, that I was not mad at) and then all of a sudden halfway through the book… we're in the Mafia. Even the "don't go to the west wing…" part of the fairytale was NOT what you expected. It went ALL THE WAY LEFT. The family war was completely unrealistic and to read the plot twist, I was literally like "are you freaking kidding me? Who does that?". The author did happen to pull out a couple of tears but there was a lot just left unknown. We switch over to Leo's POV when we start talking about the Mafia, so I'm not sure WHY we couldn't do that when he confronted the Sheriff? Also, what the hell happened to Hazel? And who was the fortune teller lady and why was she there? Will she come back for Luna's story. What was the point of Nico and Luna in the story, I mean really? I know he was the antagonist but his reasoning was dumb and not believable. But hey. You win some, you lose some.
June 24, 2021
CW: death of a parent
I absolutely loved this book. I laughed, I cried, I fanned myself a few times, and I’d happily do it again!
Belle lives with her father and 2 sisters in Silver Falls. One day their father doesn’t come home and it isn’t until they receive a phone call from their father, that they understand he’s been taking prisoner by Leo.
Leo hears Belle’s voice over the phone and demands she come to retrieve her father. After threatening police involvement (Kane, the chief, is an ass) Belle offers to be Leo’s housekeeper in exchange for her father going free. Leo of course accepts and Belle is left alone with the imposing Leo.
It doesn’t take long for Leo to seduce Belle and I am here for every bit of it. She tries to keep their relationship professional but they grow closer and closer everyday. Leo is hurt in a shooting and some time later, he reveals that he is the son of one of a mafia man.
For her safety he returns Belle (who is pregnant but doesn’t tell him) back to her family and goes to his father. Turns out his family is at war with another family and he must step in to ensure no harm comes to Belle. Leo hates his father but they eventually rekindle their relationship (this is where I cried). After a lot of bs, secrets, and revenge, Belle and Leo end up happily ever after.
Loved this book so much!
I absolutely loved this book. I laughed, I cried, I fanned myself a few times, and I’d happily do it again!
Belle lives with her father and 2 sisters in Silver Falls. One day their father doesn’t come home and it isn’t until they receive a phone call from their father, that they understand he’s been taking prisoner by Leo.
Leo hears Belle’s voice over the phone and demands she come to retrieve her father. After threatening police involvement (Kane, the chief, is an ass) Belle offers to be Leo’s housekeeper in exchange for her father going free. Leo of course accepts and Belle is left alone with the imposing Leo.
It doesn’t take long for Leo to seduce Belle and I am here for every bit of it. She tries to keep their relationship professional but they grow closer and closer everyday. Leo is hurt in a shooting and some time later, he reveals that he is the son of one of a mafia man.
For her safety he returns Belle (who is pregnant but doesn’t tell him) back to her family and goes to his father. Turns out his family is at war with another family and he must step in to ensure no harm comes to Belle. Leo hates his father but they eventually rekindle their relationship (this is where I cried). After a lot of bs, secrets, and revenge, Belle and Leo end up happily ever after.
Loved this book so much!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2021
Excellent, steamy read
Really excellent book.
A modern retelling of beauty and the beast, although from what I can tell, far from being ugly, all the "beast" had was a large port wine birth mark on his face, even though he's described as being hideous and terrifying to look at, so that's not really ideal...
A really good read, that kept me hooked and always wanting to read "just one more chapter".
A few interesting twists and turns along the way, some really interesting characters and sub plots, some of which were left dangling, hopefully to be explored in later books, although the main story is wrapped up nicely.
Some very well written steamy scenes, but they fit well with the story rather than the story being written around sex - it wasn't just smut for the sake of having it, it was smut, but smut that enhanced the story (it is an erotic romance after all).
Very well written, I can't think of any typos off the top of my head although it's been a few days since I finished the book, so there may well have been a couple, but there definitely wasn't an abundance of them because that I would have remembered!
I would definitely recommend this book, and I've already downloaded the next in the series but there's a few (dozen) books ahead of It in my tbr pile yet, but I can't wait to read all about lunas story and find out what went so wrong for them!
Really excellent book.
A modern retelling of beauty and the beast, although from what I can tell, far from being ugly, all the "beast" had was a large port wine birth mark on his face, even though he's described as being hideous and terrifying to look at, so that's not really ideal...
A really good read, that kept me hooked and always wanting to read "just one more chapter".
A few interesting twists and turns along the way, some really interesting characters and sub plots, some of which were left dangling, hopefully to be explored in later books, although the main story is wrapped up nicely.
Some very well written steamy scenes, but they fit well with the story rather than the story being written around sex - it wasn't just smut for the sake of having it, it was smut, but smut that enhanced the story (it is an erotic romance after all).
Very well written, I can't think of any typos off the top of my head although it's been a few days since I finished the book, so there may well have been a couple, but there definitely wasn't an abundance of them because that I would have remembered!
I would definitely recommend this book, and I've already downloaded the next in the series but there's a few (dozen) books ahead of It in my tbr pile yet, but I can't wait to read all about lunas story and find out what went so wrong for them!
October 17, 2024
I used to believe in fairy tales. And then I met him . They call him the Beast. Cold, calculating eyes watched my every move. He pushed me up against the walls of his castle, and growled against my neck that he owned me now. But beneath the savage, I glimpsed a man. I gave myself to him. I let him learn every inch of my curves and glimpse every corner of my heart. When it was his turn to do the same, it all went dark. I get a peek into his real world for the first time—a world of ruthless killers and heartless criminals. His baby grows inside me as long-buried secrets start to unravel—each of them more devastating than the last. Real intentions surface. I discover that everything I once believed to be true is really a lie. There are no such things as fairy tales. And only time will tell if I dodged a bullet or made the biggest mistake of my life.
Oh wow this was a wonderful mafia romance book and extremely enjoyable. I like the idea of a beauty and the beast storyline mafia style and the sexual chemistry between Leo and belle was smoking hot. The book was a joy to read and very difficult to put down and I read the book in one day. This is the first book I've read by Aria R. Blue and wow she is a fabulous author and I shall be reading more of her books in the future.
Oh wow this was a wonderful mafia romance book and extremely enjoyable. I like the idea of a beauty and the beast storyline mafia style and the sexual chemistry between Leo and belle was smoking hot. The book was a joy to read and very difficult to put down and I read the book in one day. This is the first book I've read by Aria R. Blue and wow she is a fabulous author and I shall be reading more of her books in the future.
January 6, 2021
Insta love mafia romance!
by sewsummore
Belle promised to work for Leo Blackwood for three months and in return, Leo agreed not to prosecute her father for attempted robbery. For some time Belle wished to get away from all her family's problem's and this was a perfect opportunity to getaway. When she first met Leo she was not afraid unlike most people when they first meet him. Leo was a lonely man who lived alone in a mansion hidden in the woods. Most people were afraid of him because of his disfigurement and large size and thought him dangerous, including her father. However, Belle was never afraid of him. Leo became fascinated by Belle! She was an innocent, caring young woman who found herself helpless to resist the wounded, caring man who yearned for her company. Belle soon found herself falling in love with her beast, while Leo's fascination turns into an enduring love for Belle. Leo has a dark past that he fears will destroy their love but Belle has a hidden strength that allows her to rise above all the pain and become the woman she was meant to be.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
by sewsummore
Belle promised to work for Leo Blackwood for three months and in return, Leo agreed not to prosecute her father for attempted robbery. For some time Belle wished to get away from all her family's problem's and this was a perfect opportunity to getaway. When she first met Leo she was not afraid unlike most people when they first meet him. Leo was a lonely man who lived alone in a mansion hidden in the woods. Most people were afraid of him because of his disfigurement and large size and thought him dangerous, including her father. However, Belle was never afraid of him. Leo became fascinated by Belle! She was an innocent, caring young woman who found herself helpless to resist the wounded, caring man who yearned for her company. Belle soon found herself falling in love with her beast, while Leo's fascination turns into an enduring love for Belle. Leo has a dark past that he fears will destroy their love but Belle has a hidden strength that allows her to rise above all the pain and become the woman she was meant to be.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
September 25, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My review for Knocked Up By The Beast by Aria R. Blue is mixed. Thus isn't my first book by her. I actually read the 2nd book in this series first. I would definitely recommend reading them in order. The story lines are intertwined.
I will start with my positives. I love this modern retelling of the Beauty and the Beast story. The updates in the characters are fitting. Modern Belle is basically helping to support her family. Her dad has his problems the least of which is his hyper focus on his work to point of ignoring his family. Leo, the modern Beast, is the son of a mobster. He has fled the life but gets drawn back in.
What I think could be improved is the looseness in the story. I want the story to be a little tighter. While I realize the author doesn't want to reveal everything when it is a part of a series, the story felt very disjointed. The way Leo spoke when he was trying to seduce Belle, just didn't fit what I expect from the character. I can't really explain why but this I felt was a flaw. Overall I think Knocked Up by the Beast is worth the read.
My review for Knocked Up By The Beast by Aria R. Blue is mixed. Thus isn't my first book by her. I actually read the 2nd book in this series first. I would definitely recommend reading them in order. The story lines are intertwined.
I will start with my positives. I love this modern retelling of the Beauty and the Beast story. The updates in the characters are fitting. Modern Belle is basically helping to support her family. Her dad has his problems the least of which is his hyper focus on his work to point of ignoring his family. Leo, the modern Beast, is the son of a mobster. He has fled the life but gets drawn back in.
What I think could be improved is the looseness in the story. I want the story to be a little tighter. While I realize the author doesn't want to reveal everything when it is a part of a series, the story felt very disjointed. The way Leo spoke when he was trying to seduce Belle, just didn't fit what I expect from the character. I can't really explain why but this I felt was a flaw. Overall I think Knocked Up by the Beast is worth the read.
October 26, 2022
The title gives it away
It is so deliciously bad. A dark romance retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Oh it's awful, and it doesn't mean to be. It's so delightfully unaware of how absolutely cringe worthy it's supposed to be that it takes itself seriously. It ends up being really endearing.
The love scenes are for a very specific audience, and most readers will either loathe them or roll their eyes. I enjoyed them.
The plot is convoluted and ridiculous. The Disney fairytale plot is tossed for something that doesn't work. In no world does the later half of the book make sense.
The characters are attempts at modernized fairy tale characters. They are less successful than Once Upon A Time. Throw out the Disney template and start with the dark romance. Ivy may be more successful in that sphere.
The writing is really trying. The plot and the characters are already a handicap. Then ya add no research and the very specific filter of dark romance. You would have to be a great writer to pull it off.
The pacing is slower than molasses in January. Any moments of high tension are quickly panned away from.
It is so deliciously bad. A dark romance retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Oh it's awful, and it doesn't mean to be. It's so delightfully unaware of how absolutely cringe worthy it's supposed to be that it takes itself seriously. It ends up being really endearing.
The love scenes are for a very specific audience, and most readers will either loathe them or roll their eyes. I enjoyed them.
The plot is convoluted and ridiculous. The Disney fairytale plot is tossed for something that doesn't work. In no world does the later half of the book make sense.
The characters are attempts at modernized fairy tale characters. They are less successful than Once Upon A Time. Throw out the Disney template and start with the dark romance. Ivy may be more successful in that sphere.
The writing is really trying. The plot and the characters are already a handicap. Then ya add no research and the very specific filter of dark romance. You would have to be a great writer to pull it off.
The pacing is slower than molasses in January. Any moments of high tension are quickly panned away from.
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