What do you think?
Rate this book
Russo Royals #3
Dark Kingdom
A fully Standalone Arranged Marriage Dark Romance novel
He wants me. He wants to break me.
We knew this war would come.
I'm the pawn to secure the kingdom.
Only, no one bothered to tell me.
He's ten years older.
Tall, dark...and deadly.
He's no prince charming.
He's the Huntsman.
Harsh. Relentless. Possessive.
I want to run from him.
And yet...
Every time he touches me,
I burn for more.
When he steals my innocence...
I find my body betraying me.
I lose myself.
Giving him...all of me.
Despite my shame, I beg for more.
This man that will become...my husband.
He wants me. He wants to break me.
We knew this war would come.
I'm the pawn to secure the kingdom.
Only, no one bothered to tell me.
He's ten years older.
Tall, dark...and deadly.
He's no prince charming.
He's the Huntsman.
Harsh. Relentless. Possessive.
I want to run from him.
And yet...
Every time he touches me,
I burn for more.
When he steals my innocence...
I find my body betraying me.
I lose myself.
Giving him...all of me.
Despite my shame, I beg for more.
This man that will become...my husband.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 26, 2021
472 people are currently reading
354 people want to read
About the author
Shanna Handel
81 books847 followersShanna Handel is an Internationally Bestselling author of high-heat romantic suspense. If you like plot-heavy page turners with lots of heat and an HEA with found family, this author is for you.
Sign up for Shanna’s newsletter to hear about new releases:
https://www.shannahandelromance.com/
Sign up for Shanna’s newsletter to hear about new releases:
https://www.shannahandelromance.com/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
February 26, 2022
it was aight for me. enjoyable but didn't like it that much.
February 21, 2021
Dark Kingdom is the third installment of The Russo Royals Series by Shanna Handel.
I was so ready for Italy again. I am loving all of these arranged marriage books! Our new favorite Italian Mafia Families are back with Lance and Cecily’s story in Dark Kingdom.
Set in idyllic Italy. Let's go back to the world of Castles, Italian Mafia families and strong family ties, we are back with another arranged marriage story. Lance, the eldest of the Russo family wants to marry his own Mafia princess, just like his younger brother Luca who recently married Esme.
We recall that in the second book, Dark Throne, Cecily was feeling lonely. She’s 20, and the youngest daughter in a world of overprotective older brothers. She can hardly talk to a man, let alone kiss one.
Lance takes control over his desires and arranges the marriage between him and his bride to be. Along the way we encounter danger, feel outraged for Cecily, and ultimately love their story.
Dark Kingdom had the most fairy tale vibes and historical elements of the two prior Russo Royal reads. It was as though I was reading a modern fairy tale at times. I enjoyed this book and LOVE this new series! I missed Shanna Handel’s writing ever since the Bachman Series.
I’m impressed by her ability to write contemporary fiction and still incorporate classic fairy tale elements. In a way we’re brought back to simpler times which you get a feel for in Shanna’s books. In Dark Kingdom as well as the prior two Russo Royal books, classic elements of family are involved. You are transplanted in a world where Mafia Royalty exists in the beautiful Italian countryside.
I look forward to the next book. I love that we are able to see a bit of what it to come in every read and I LOVE that I am seeing many more books in the future with this family.
I am so grateful to be provided this ARC. I am leaving my honest opinion. I truly loved this story, love the family, characters, and series. After getting just a taste of what’s to come I am yearning for the next one!
I was so ready for Italy again. I am loving all of these arranged marriage books! Our new favorite Italian Mafia Families are back with Lance and Cecily’s story in Dark Kingdom.
Set in idyllic Italy. Let's go back to the world of Castles, Italian Mafia families and strong family ties, we are back with another arranged marriage story. Lance, the eldest of the Russo family wants to marry his own Mafia princess, just like his younger brother Luca who recently married Esme.
We recall that in the second book, Dark Throne, Cecily was feeling lonely. She’s 20, and the youngest daughter in a world of overprotective older brothers. She can hardly talk to a man, let alone kiss one.
Lance takes control over his desires and arranges the marriage between him and his bride to be. Along the way we encounter danger, feel outraged for Cecily, and ultimately love their story.
Dark Kingdom had the most fairy tale vibes and historical elements of the two prior Russo Royal reads. It was as though I was reading a modern fairy tale at times. I enjoyed this book and LOVE this new series! I missed Shanna Handel’s writing ever since the Bachman Series.
I’m impressed by her ability to write contemporary fiction and still incorporate classic fairy tale elements. In a way we’re brought back to simpler times which you get a feel for in Shanna’s books. In Dark Kingdom as well as the prior two Russo Royal books, classic elements of family are involved. You are transplanted in a world where Mafia Royalty exists in the beautiful Italian countryside.
I look forward to the next book. I love that we are able to see a bit of what it to come in every read and I LOVE that I am seeing many more books in the future with this family.
I am so grateful to be provided this ARC. I am leaving my honest opinion. I truly loved this story, love the family, characters, and series. After getting just a taste of what’s to come I am yearning for the next one!
February 21, 2021
If you love the Bachman family, fasten your seatbelt for the Russo and Romano families sagas. Sexy Alpha men who don't take no for an answer, and between these two families there are SO many of them! In this case, it's Lance Romano, the eldest son, going after the bride he wants, Cecily Russo, whether she wants it or not. The arrangements have been made already but nobody told the bride! This is a red hot sizzling story that brings in more new characters that will no doubt spark new books for the series, and with Shanna Handel we just can't get enough!
February 19, 2021
I was disappointed in the way Lance told Cecily of her fate to marry him. She wss treated worse than chattel. I would have liked him to have the decency and integrity to talk to her before taking her!! Sad tears!
Would it have been so hard to be honest and adult rather than using brute force and hormones???? Smh. Brute force is never the answer. You can get more flies with honey than with vinegar!! It takes a tragedy before Lance learns not to be a hard headed oaf. I enjoyed Lance's wake up call. He deserved it. I lost a lot of respect for Cecily constantly cow towing to Lance and being his doormat. I wanted her to have more strength of character. I expected and wanted more from these characters and was disappointed in both, sadly.
Would it have been so hard to be honest and adult rather than using brute force and hormones???? Smh. Brute force is never the answer. You can get more flies with honey than with vinegar!! It takes a tragedy before Lance learns not to be a hard headed oaf. I enjoyed Lance's wake up call. He deserved it. I lost a lot of respect for Cecily constantly cow towing to Lance and being his doormat. I wanted her to have more strength of character. I expected and wanted more from these characters and was disappointed in both, sadly.
February 28, 2021
BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR
Once again, Ms. Shanna Handel has spun an intriguing tale, a mafia ‘Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf,’ with secrets and truths. The story continues from the first two books, Dark Crown and Dark Throne, but could be read stand-alone. The story is a tale of two reigning families, the Russo and Romano families. One has long-term ties to the area; the other is newer but as powerful, if maybe not more so. Combined with another marriage makes them more powerful together.
The story will have Cecily Russo shocked at the way her overprotective family is so eager to welcome Lance Romano. At a poker party of the men, her brothers allow Lance to have her sit on his lap as he teachers her the game—her mother will enable them to walk unchaperoned in the woods. Who are these people, and why have they changed?
“It doesn’t matter what I want—Mama would never let her Little Red Cowgirl Boots go tromping off into the woods with the Big Bad Wolf, anyhow. What in the world is going on here?”
Lance is a man who is known to be will all the pretty women in the village. He has never worried about it—but things are changing—and that means changes in his lifestyle.
“Lance is a man whore, a party boy, a playboy. He can have any woman he wants, and he has.”
The new relationship between Cecily and Lance has her baffled. Why is her family, her very over-protective family, so quickly welcoming Lance into their home? Letting her sit on his lap and take walks into the woods? The chemistry between them is strong; even with him older and her somewhat naïve, they click. She is sassy, and he is dominant and calls her out on her mouth, and shows her quickly who is boss and who will listen when instructed.
“This dark hair, your milky skin. Those pretty rosebud lips. You look like a little Snow White.”
“A Snow White with seven deadly men guarding her instead of dwarves.”
“Yes, with a father and six older brothers, you’re almost impossible to access.”
The story has the good, the bad, and the ugly of mafia families. It has its secrets, mystery, suspense, danger, and then a romance and passion. While Lance is a man of the world, Cecily is naïve but will learn the ways between a man and woman quickly with Lance.
“His massive body curves around me like a cocooned prison of heaven and hell, sin and sex.”
“This union with Cecily—I can feel in my soul.”
“Oh, dearie, you’d like a man between your thighs! Poof! Here’s one for all of eternity. Enjoy!”
As this story takes on life and death danger, an attack on the Russo castle, while Lance and Cecily are walking in the woods—they hear gunfire and get a text to run. Then a text to flee to a cabin in the woods to stay safe. But what happens the next day is full of surprises. Has another enemy set up the Russo and Romano families? How will Lance and Cecily survive the ordeal?
“Hold on, my prince, we are almost to safety.”
While the story does not end on a cliffhanger, it does have a teaser in the epilogue that leads into the next story. I’m hooked on this new series and look forward to the next book, Dark Forest. These stories have minor violence, explicit sex scenes, power exchange, dominance, and submission.
Once again, Ms. Shanna Handel has spun an intriguing tale, a mafia ‘Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf,’ with secrets and truths. The story continues from the first two books, Dark Crown and Dark Throne, but could be read stand-alone. The story is a tale of two reigning families, the Russo and Romano families. One has long-term ties to the area; the other is newer but as powerful, if maybe not more so. Combined with another marriage makes them more powerful together.
The story will have Cecily Russo shocked at the way her overprotective family is so eager to welcome Lance Romano. At a poker party of the men, her brothers allow Lance to have her sit on his lap as he teachers her the game—her mother will enable them to walk unchaperoned in the woods. Who are these people, and why have they changed?
“It doesn’t matter what I want—Mama would never let her Little Red Cowgirl Boots go tromping off into the woods with the Big Bad Wolf, anyhow. What in the world is going on here?”
Lance is a man who is known to be will all the pretty women in the village. He has never worried about it—but things are changing—and that means changes in his lifestyle.
“Lance is a man whore, a party boy, a playboy. He can have any woman he wants, and he has.”
The new relationship between Cecily and Lance has her baffled. Why is her family, her very over-protective family, so quickly welcoming Lance into their home? Letting her sit on his lap and take walks into the woods? The chemistry between them is strong; even with him older and her somewhat naïve, they click. She is sassy, and he is dominant and calls her out on her mouth, and shows her quickly who is boss and who will listen when instructed.
“This dark hair, your milky skin. Those pretty rosebud lips. You look like a little Snow White.”
“A Snow White with seven deadly men guarding her instead of dwarves.”
“Yes, with a father and six older brothers, you’re almost impossible to access.”
The story has the good, the bad, and the ugly of mafia families. It has its secrets, mystery, suspense, danger, and then a romance and passion. While Lance is a man of the world, Cecily is naïve but will learn the ways between a man and woman quickly with Lance.
“His massive body curves around me like a cocooned prison of heaven and hell, sin and sex.”
“This union with Cecily—I can feel in my soul.”
“Oh, dearie, you’d like a man between your thighs! Poof! Here’s one for all of eternity. Enjoy!”
As this story takes on life and death danger, an attack on the Russo castle, while Lance and Cecily are walking in the woods—they hear gunfire and get a text to run. Then a text to flee to a cabin in the woods to stay safe. But what happens the next day is full of surprises. Has another enemy set up the Russo and Romano families? How will Lance and Cecily survive the ordeal?
“Hold on, my prince, we are almost to safety.”
While the story does not end on a cliffhanger, it does have a teaser in the epilogue that leads into the next story. I’m hooked on this new series and look forward to the next book, Dark Forest. These stories have minor violence, explicit sex scenes, power exchange, dominance, and submission.
June 7, 2021
Dark Kingdom continues the saga of Shanna Handel’s Russo Royals series. In this third book, readers get deeper look into two former supporting characters—Cecily Ann Russo and Lance Romano. Cecily is the young, innocent, and sheltered niece of Vincent Russo, the patriarch of the Russo family. Lance is the oldest of the Romano sons. He oversees the family’s winery and underground private gambling facility. Lance is ten years older than Cecily. Despite his years as a playboy, Lance is attracted to Cecily and realizes he needs her. He brokers an arranged marriage for her with her older brother, Aldo. Their union would further strengthen the bond between the Romano and Russo family. The collateral damage of the Romano family secret wreaks havoc on their romantic journey.
I enjoy Ms. Handel’s writing style and her use of a dual-prong plot, as well as a dual POV. Her dual-prong plot includes the romantic journey between Cecily and Lance and the mystery behind the Romano’s family secret. She masterfully creates outstanding dialog—both conversational and internal monologues that allow readers to better get to know her characters. Her skill with descriptive language is remarkable as she paints captivating scenes. The scene where Cecily and Lance are attacked in the forest and her confrontation with a stranger was riveting. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more in this series. Way to go, Ms. Handel.
I enjoy Ms. Handel’s writing style and her use of a dual-prong plot, as well as a dual POV. Her dual-prong plot includes the romantic journey between Cecily and Lance and the mystery behind the Romano’s family secret. She masterfully creates outstanding dialog—both conversational and internal monologues that allow readers to better get to know her characters. Her skill with descriptive language is remarkable as she paints captivating scenes. The scene where Cecily and Lance are attacked in the forest and her confrontation with a stranger was riveting. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more in this series. Way to go, Ms. Handel.
February 21, 2021
Lance Romano is a man who gets what he wants. After years of playing the field, he sets his sights on innocent, sweet Cecily Russo.
Determined to fortify the connection between the Romanos & the Russos he will marry Cecily, no matter if she wants to or not. Lance is a strong, dominant man. He knows Cecily is the one for him and he will move heaven & earth to have her.
Cecily had led a very sheltered life due to her overprotective six older brothers. Having Lance pay attention to her, plays havoc with her ordinary, boring life. She resents his dominant behaviour and his bossy ways, but can't resist him. When the enemy attacks, they find themselves fleeing for their life, but Cecily knows Lance will keep her safe. In their way to HEA they will meet three mysterious women in the forest, outrun an asassin and bring to light old buried secrets. During all this, their devotion to one another will shine through, making sure to bring their love story to an happy end.
This is the 3rd installment in the "Dark" series and as usual Shanna Handel does not disappoint. This is a story of a strong woman, the stern, protective and loving man by her side and the large, boisterous family they are both part of. I was happy to find out that the next book in the series will be Aldo's story and I can't wait to read it.
Determined to fortify the connection between the Romanos & the Russos he will marry Cecily, no matter if she wants to or not. Lance is a strong, dominant man. He knows Cecily is the one for him and he will move heaven & earth to have her.
Cecily had led a very sheltered life due to her overprotective six older brothers. Having Lance pay attention to her, plays havoc with her ordinary, boring life. She resents his dominant behaviour and his bossy ways, but can't resist him. When the enemy attacks, they find themselves fleeing for their life, but Cecily knows Lance will keep her safe. In their way to HEA they will meet three mysterious women in the forest, outrun an asassin and bring to light old buried secrets. During all this, their devotion to one another will shine through, making sure to bring their love story to an happy end.
This is the 3rd installment in the "Dark" series and as usual Shanna Handel does not disappoint. This is a story of a strong woman, the stern, protective and loving man by her side and the large, boisterous family they are both part of. I was happy to find out that the next book in the series will be Aldo's story and I can't wait to read it.
October 15, 2022
The first book was four stars definitely Insta love but I enjoyed it. and then the second book I was like so they are just going to repeat the same thing, spanking sex constantly Insta love and although I did not really vibe with it as much I gave it three stars but this again the same fucking formula, it’s ridiculous. I suffered getting through this one cause this is insta love as well but somethings just don’t make sense. Also, what is the obsession with spanking can do nothing the original. in the first book, Vincent was obsessed with her from before he even met her they had a backstory. The second book although, not as good had a backstory where Luca was in love with her but in this book, she did not know him. They had literally no chemistry. I hate it. I literally only read it to finish the series and because it was short
another complaint is the constant sex scenes.
In the first book I was like oh spicy I like it then the second book I was like OK it’s a lot of unnecessary sex scenes not but this book they literally were fucking in the woods and then they went to a cabin and fucked there for no reason at all and I don’t think they like each other. It is the sexual tension not even tension cause they had barely any it’s sexual attraction. I saw it in the first two books, where Vincent was this dominant man and in the second book where Luca was this portrayed bully who was always protecting his wife on the shadows, even as children, but what is lance other than annoying.
In conclusion, I hate this book
another complaint is the constant sex scenes.
In the first book I was like oh spicy I like it then the second book I was like OK it’s a lot of unnecessary sex scenes not but this book they literally were fucking in the woods and then they went to a cabin and fucked there for no reason at all and I don’t think they like each other. It is the sexual tension not even tension cause they had barely any it’s sexual attraction. I saw it in the first two books, where Vincent was this dominant man and in the second book where Luca was this portrayed bully who was always protecting his wife on the shadows, even as children, but what is lance other than annoying.
In conclusion, I hate this book
February 23, 2021
The saga of the Russo/Romano families continues in this new action packed spanking romance from Ms. Handel. This time Lance, brother to Luca, is abandoning his playboy ways and has set his sights on courting Vincent’s young niece Cecily. Cecily is all for this until she discovers that deals have been made behind her back and she is to have no say in the matter. Then her rebellious independent personality, and natural brattiness, comes out in a BIG way. Sparks fly and spankings ensue! Their relationship is fraught with drama caused from within and without. Lots of action, intrigue and romance. There are even some more revealing details about Lucas mother’s murder and her assailant. There is so much to enjoy about this series and each story can be read and enjoyed on a stand-alone basis but it is just so much better if you have read the previous ones first. I strongly recommend that. As has been her habit in the past, Ms. Handel provides an interesting insight into the next book in the Epilogue. There is no cliff hanger, as the story is complete with it’s HEA, just a wee look ahead. 5 Stars
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2021
Donna L
5.0 out of 5 stars Let The Hunt Begin
Reviewed in the United States on February 26, 2021
Verified Purchase
Shanna Handel’s ability to draws you in from the beginning of this story is
compelling.Her characters are well thought out in this modern day take on
a fairy tale. I lost myself in this mafia-themed world with all of it's danger.
Lance was my kind of hero. Protective and commanding. He was rich and
smooth just like hot chocolate on a cold day.Yummy!! What a firecracker
Cecily turned out to be. Sweet, innocent, but so sassy and feisty. She relied
on that strength to keep them both safe and out of harm's way.
Fate and family played an intrinsic role that unified the Romano and the Russo
families.The only problem was that no one asked Cecily who was shooting
flames.
Lance’s playboy days were over.He was determined to have the one woman who touched his soul. Cecily spoke to him in ways that he had never known, but what a battle he had on his hands with his spitfire.
The inclusion of the secondary characters played an intrinsic role adding depth
to the storyline. The emotional growth of Cecily was the hero of this book for
me. Fans of mafia romance stories will fall in love with this book just how I have.
November 16, 2021
Dark Kingdom is the third book in the Dark Royals series. It could be read as a stand alone, but characters and storylines from previous books are mentioned. When Lance sees Cecily, he knows that she will be his, but with being a rival’s princess, he will have to go for a hunt. Their connection is instant, but with danger stalking them, will they survive the woods safely enough to trust one another with their hearts?
Oh yay, I just loved this book! Lance and Cecily had a ton of chemistry and I loved their scenes right from the very beginning! I barely put this book down, and that was only for emergencies haha! Cecily was so sweet, wanting so badly to have a man crave and cherish her, and I think she was brave, especially when she was in the woods with Lance. Dominant, possessive, and protective, Lance was the perfect alpha male for Cecily. I loved that this book started off as definitely Lance’s way was the only way, but as his feelings for Cecily grew, his thought process shifted to incorporate her feelings and needs as well - unless something interferes with her safety. Both are focused on each other, on the passion they can draw from one another, and will selflessly keep the others safe. This book did a great job with being a stand alone, but was richer knowing the previous books and storylines. There’s definitely a storm brewing for the future books and I look forward to reading more in this series!
Oh yay, I just loved this book! Lance and Cecily had a ton of chemistry and I loved their scenes right from the very beginning! I barely put this book down, and that was only for emergencies haha! Cecily was so sweet, wanting so badly to have a man crave and cherish her, and I think she was brave, especially when she was in the woods with Lance. Dominant, possessive, and protective, Lance was the perfect alpha male for Cecily. I loved that this book started off as definitely Lance’s way was the only way, but as his feelings for Cecily grew, his thought process shifted to incorporate her feelings and needs as well - unless something interferes with her safety. Both are focused on each other, on the passion they can draw from one another, and will selflessly keep the others safe. This book did a great job with being a stand alone, but was richer knowing the previous books and storylines. There’s definitely a storm brewing for the future books and I look forward to reading more in this series!
March 5, 2021
I absolutely love the way Shanna Handel can create a world, include such perfectly strong characters with strong opinions and beliefs, and wrap the entire storyline with a plot that pulls me in and pulls me along so quickly there is no time for anything else. 'Dark Kingdom' is her third book in the "Russo Royals" series and it's epic. Lance is the playboy of his family with a passion for fast cars and fast women when he relaxes. Cecily is the seventh child of six very large, very over-protective brothers who have been spoiled and pampered her entire life. Their families had been rivals for many generations until Aldo and Esme were married and brought the families together. Lance brokers a marriage between himself and Cecily with her family without having spoken to Cecily. When she discovers what he's done she doesn't know which emotion she wants to play into. There is such chemistry between these two, it's undeniable. There's a bit of danger that surfaces that leave loose ends that I know Ms. Handel will close eventually. But the story between Lance and Cecily is one you don't want to miss.
February 24, 2021
Enjoyable characters and plot, possibly not quite as engaging as the previous book
As always, the book was well written with a good selection of characters and plot and although I did not find it quite as engaging as the previous book I still enjoyed it and would recommend the read.
Lance had explained that it was their fate to marry him and yet he had no respect for her and his regard was simply awful. He was a liar and a cheat and dishonest and was terrible husband material, he was a brute and a bully and he made me cringe.
Also, Cecily was in some cases not very strong in that she constantly bowed to his will but this was because of fear and self-preservation, this was well written and sadly is a common occurrence and this author has written the book very well and I am sure that there will be those that are able to associate with this situation.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
As always, the book was well written with a good selection of characters and plot and although I did not find it quite as engaging as the previous book I still enjoyed it and would recommend the read.
Lance had explained that it was their fate to marry him and yet he had no respect for her and his regard was simply awful. He was a liar and a cheat and dishonest and was terrible husband material, he was a brute and a bully and he made me cringe.
Also, Cecily was in some cases not very strong in that she constantly bowed to his will but this was because of fear and self-preservation, this was well written and sadly is a common occurrence and this author has written the book very well and I am sure that there will be those that are able to associate with this situation.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
February 25, 2021
Lance Romano, oldest Romano son, wine maker and all around HOTTIE!
He likes fast cars and fast women....until Cecily Russo. One conversation with her and he's hooked! (Who wouldn't want that kind of guy?!?)
Cecily is the baby of her family, with 6 brothers watching over her...she never had a chance LOL. But then her brother, Aldo, arranges her marriage with Lance. Let just say she wasn't completely happy about that.
Sparks fly between these two, in more ways than one, and I'm here for it! The passion is intense.
And then there's some serious action with another family and a family secret we've all been curious about....that's gonna knock you over, it did me!
Once again Shanna gave us a phenomenal read AND there's even a little tidbit, a little hinty hint, on what I'm hoping is the next book!
He likes fast cars and fast women....until Cecily Russo. One conversation with her and he's hooked! (Who wouldn't want that kind of guy?!?)
Cecily is the baby of her family, with 6 brothers watching over her...she never had a chance LOL. But then her brother, Aldo, arranges her marriage with Lance. Let just say she wasn't completely happy about that.
Sparks fly between these two, in more ways than one, and I'm here for it! The passion is intense.
And then there's some serious action with another family and a family secret we've all been curious about....that's gonna knock you over, it did me!
Once again Shanna gave us a phenomenal read AND there's even a little tidbit, a little hinty hint, on what I'm hoping is the next book!
February 27, 2021
OMG! I loved this story! I have been a fan of Shanna Handel for a long time now. I can't get enough of her stories. I loved the interactions between Lance and Cecily. I was thrilled to finally read their story. I was caught up in the action from the first page.
Lance has arranged to marry Cecily Russo only she doesn't know it at first. She has been protected by the men in her family her whole life and couldn't understand at first why they were different around Lance Romano. She has been attracted to him but wants to wait until marriage. At first, Lance wants to marry her to strength the bond between her family and his. Soon it becomes much more though. Will they be able to work things out to find happiness in their life together?
I received an ARC from the author/publisher for an honest review.
Lance has arranged to marry Cecily Russo only she doesn't know it at first. She has been protected by the men in her family her whole life and couldn't understand at first why they were different around Lance Romano. She has been attracted to him but wants to wait until marriage. At first, Lance wants to marry her to strength the bond between her family and his. Soon it becomes much more though. Will they be able to work things out to find happiness in their life together?
I received an ARC from the author/publisher for an honest review.
March 21, 2021
United Tales
Lance Romano, eldest of the Romano brothers overseas the winery part of their kingdom. Looking to bind the two reigning families together, Russo's and the Romano's, he sets his sights on the Italian mafia king's niece, Cecily.
From man whore, party boy, playboy to an insta-lust to love monotonous relationship within the span of two days together. This storyline is reminiscent of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves; each book in the series leans towards one fairy tale title. Replace dwarves with men (six brothers and her father) and Lance is the huntsman vice prince and this one though.
Secrets also get further unfolded, but still leave a few questions unanswered. Especially now with two other families on the table in which they must unite against, the Russo's and Romano's versus the Meralos and Bianchi's.
Lance Romano, eldest of the Romano brothers overseas the winery part of their kingdom. Looking to bind the two reigning families together, Russo's and the Romano's, he sets his sights on the Italian mafia king's niece, Cecily.
From man whore, party boy, playboy to an insta-lust to love monotonous relationship within the span of two days together. This storyline is reminiscent of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves; each book in the series leans towards one fairy tale title. Replace dwarves with men (six brothers and her father) and Lance is the huntsman vice prince and this one though.
Secrets also get further unfolded, but still leave a few questions unanswered. Especially now with two other families on the table in which they must unite against, the Russo's and Romano's versus the Meralos and Bianchi's.
March 26, 2021
This is the third instalment in the Russo Royals series. Like the others, this can be read and enjoyed as a standalone read, although there is an overlying story arc that may leave you unfulfilled if you're not aware of it. I loved most of this story. Cecily and Lance were wonderful characters and I just love a guy who knows what he wants and is all in on the relationship, even before the woman. Taking that into account, I didn't like the way the families organised the marriage before asking Cecily, but we're not supposed to like it since this provides tension in the story. I did find that as the story went on it felt like the setting changed and became less Italian-feel and more of an American fantasy feel, but overall I enjoyed this quick, easy read.
February 24, 2021
Cecily is the youngest and only daughter of the Russos. Lance has decided that he wants to marry Cecily so he talks to her older brothers and father to get their blessing. It is all arranged, but someone forgets to tell Cecily. Well, not really, Cecily's agreement was not really necessary. But, Cecily likes Lance, she just considers him high handed. Lance expects her obedience and Cecily goes over his knee if she doesn't. I enjoyed the book, but I do wish that Lance hadn't been such an a**. He does mellow by the end of the book and they get their HEA.
I received an advance copy and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an advance copy and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 2, 2021
I loved this book. It is a very quick read for a very full book. It's very well written and described. I loved Cecily and was glad that she got her own story, she deserved it. Playboy Lance found what was good for him! All the characters are very well written and described. Even though this is in the middle of a series (hopefully) it can be read as a stand alone but I have read all the books and I can highly recommend each one. I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book and I very highly recommend it. There are lots of erotic, spicy sexy scenes and other elements to hold the readers.
February 20, 2021
Dark Kingdom was a great story, the plot was dark, it was packed with several emotions, the book was written well. Shanna Handel did a great job on the book.
Cecily and Lance's journey wasn't an easy at all. Lance was a hard man, you'll feel many thing for the man. It didn't matter what Cecily went through, she was a fighter, she'd do what she had to.
Lance and Cecily's journey may have had many bumps along the way but they were drawn to each other.
I enjoyed this story.
Thanks, Shanna Handel. Good work :)
Cecily and Lance's journey wasn't an easy at all. Lance was a hard man, you'll feel many thing for the man. It didn't matter what Cecily went through, she was a fighter, she'd do what she had to.
Lance and Cecily's journey may have had many bumps along the way but they were drawn to each other.
I enjoyed this story.
Thanks, Shanna Handel. Good work :)
February 22, 2021
Cecily has been protected by several older brothers and her entire family. She watches her friends go on dates and even get married and she yearns for a man of her own. What she doesn't plan for is a man who goes to her family first before even asking her on a date. When Lance starts coming around more and none of her family jumps in to save her, she knows something is up. She knows of his reputation. She will fight him, and keep her virginity for her future husband. Or will she?! Loved it from beginning to end! I love that he grows up and knows what he wants. So glad he woke up!
March 3, 2021
I enjoyed the back and forth between Lance and Cecily. They are both strong willed and witty. The love they have for their family and the desire to protect them is strong with them both. Even though Cecily knows that uniting for the safety of their families is a good idea, she's going to make Lance work for it. This book had a different vibe than the first two in the series, almost a fairly tale feeling. I'm interested to see where this takes us. I loved getting to know Aldo in this book and I'm excited for his story.
March 7, 2021
Cute
I don’t know why I keep reading these books. I do not like when men act like they get to decide everything. Threatening to spank and he heroine is a major pet peeve. And yet, I still kept reading. This was actually probably my favorite book in this series. However, she suddenly flips the script and says she gets to have an opinion about things and they hardly ever argue. Yeah no. The switch was too abrupt. And as usual, she used the epilogue to set up for the next book. I can’t stand that.
I don’t know why I keep reading these books. I do not like when men act like they get to decide everything. Threatening to spank and he heroine is a major pet peeve. And yet, I still kept reading. This was actually probably my favorite book in this series. However, she suddenly flips the script and says she gets to have an opinion about things and they hardly ever argue. Yeah no. The switch was too abrupt. And as usual, she used the epilogue to set up for the next book. I can’t stand that.
October 17, 2021
Beautiful love waiting to happen!
The Romanos was a long time enemy of the Russos. But with the arranged marriage between Lance and Cecily, the alliance was stronger. Dark kingdom was also the beginning for Aldo to find his true love with Briar Rosa. Cecily was upset with Lance because he had arranged the marriage with her parents and brothers but he didn’t ask her. True love always prevail and they were happily married. I enjoyed reading this series of Russo Royals and highly recommend because the story was well written and it keeps you interested.
The Romanos was a long time enemy of the Russos. But with the arranged marriage between Lance and Cecily, the alliance was stronger. Dark kingdom was also the beginning for Aldo to find his true love with Briar Rosa. Cecily was upset with Lance because he had arranged the marriage with her parents and brothers but he didn’t ask her. True love always prevail and they were happily married. I enjoyed reading this series of Russo Royals and highly recommend because the story was well written and it keeps you interested.
February 23, 2021
Lots of emotions in the third book of this series. Lance and Cecily have an arranged marriage but she never knew about it until it was time. Needless to say, she's not happy but he's NOT letting her go. there is a bit more darkness in this book but it wasn't overwhelming. There are twists and turns and an almost tragedy. Will Lance and Cecily stay together or will the darkness tear them apart? Another awesome book!!!!
February 28, 2021
Another wonderfully engaging story with two interesting characters. She’s a bit naive in my opinion and he takes advantage of that which made me unhappy with him. However they definitely have great chemistry and the scenes between them are laced with an incredibly steamy intensity. I totally loved the ending. I can’t wait to read more of this awesome series. Recommend.
I received a copy of this book so I could provide an honest review.
I received a copy of this book so I could provide an honest review.
March 1, 2021
Lance had always been a player but now he had made the agreement, marriage to Cecily bringing stronger ties between two families. Someone should have sent a memo to Cecily even with her sheltered protected life she didn't want to be a trade to Lance. I could definitely see Lance as a hunter with Cecily as the maiden. Lance got the jackpot when he got Cecily read the book and you will know why. Fabulous read. I voluntarily reviewed this book.
March 3, 2021
I was quite prepared to like this book but by the time Cecily and Lance were getting attacked in the forest it then entered the realm of fantasy. Briar Rose and her sisters...this sounded like a bad take off of a fairy tale. At this point the language of the characters became stilted and annoying. I loved most of the author’s Bachman series but I won’t read anymore of this series. This was the first and last one I will read.
March 8, 2021
Loved Lance and Cecily's story.
What a great read. After Lance sees Cecily for the first time, he no longer wishes to be with any other woman but her. In order for that to happen he must arrange a marriage with her family. Even though Cecily is very interested in Lance, she doesn't like the idea of a marriage without actually being asked. This is a great read and I highly recommend it!
What a great read. After Lance sees Cecily for the first time, he no longer wishes to be with any other woman but her. In order for that to happen he must arrange a marriage with her family. Even though Cecily is very interested in Lance, she doesn't like the idea of a marriage without actually being asked. This is a great read and I highly recommend it!
February 20, 2023
Spice was amazing, plot was okay, MMC made my mouth water. I don't I think story could've been better developed and seemed a little unrealistic with her being a virgin but quick and hot read.
Tropes are mafia, arranged marriage, close proximity, virgin
After 2 brief encounters she was all he was thinking about and when the topic of an arranged marriage to her is brought up her jumps at the chance and she barely knows what's going on.
Tropes are mafia, arranged marriage, close proximity, virgin
After 2 brief encounters she was all he was thinking about and when the topic of an arranged marriage to her is brought up her jumps at the chance and she barely knows what's going on.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews