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Prestian #3

Degrees of Control

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A mafia-connected billionaire and innocent mafia princess are forced together to fend off their rivals. When the enemies surface, will their shot at love survive? As one of the most powerful men in the world, I will do whatever it takes to keep Katarina safe from our enemies, even if I have to protect the headstrong princess from herself.Katarina flees from the brutality of the criminal underworld, the label of being daughter to the ruthless crime boss, and away from me.Forced together in a dangerous power struggle with the ruthless crime family, neither of us can deny the sheer magnetism of our growing devotion. But our rivals strike back with a vengeance, and things go disastrously wrong.Katarina is forced to fight back with all the instincts of her birthright. The daughter of the brutal kingpin goes head-to-head with our enemies.But will our love survive the rival’s vendetta and the stark realities in this ruthless world?Degrees of Control is the explosive third book in the Cruel Deceptions collection by Via Mari. It is a deliciously dark, forced proximity, opposites attract, billionaire mafia romance. You will love this collection where the passion is fiery, loyalty is fierce, and the stakes are high. This story is full of suspenseful twists and turns, leaving you on the edge of your seat one moment and fanning yourself the next. Each novel builds on the next. It is most enjoyable read from beginning to end with a guaranteed HEA in the final book, Degrees of Power.

238 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 5, 2017

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99 people want to read

About the author

Via Mari

51 books498 followers

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5 stars
144 (58%)
4 stars
69 (27%)
3 stars
25 (10%)
2 stars
5 (2%)
1 star
4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
2 reviews
May 5, 2017
Via is truly a star. The contents are so well built that it keeps you fully engrossed in it and equally keeps you excited & eager to read more about the story. I am desperately waiting for the series to reach its climax. Book 3 comes with a halt to Katarina's fairy tale as her plans are abruptly altered when she learns a prearranged strategy to entice the man responsible for the upheaval in their world precipitates the need to appear happily engaged to the onlooking world. Katarina feels herself in a state of perplexity as she cannot resist herself from Chase and might have to reconsider her decision. Again a great work by Via. Good Going.
Profile Image for Anna.
214 reviews6 followers
December 14, 2017
Having Control...

In this book there was issues of trust and being able to control the feelings that erupt.
In all three books ìnnocence, acceptance and control every thing that Katarina is having to learn at same time loving Chace so much.
In this book you get to see how both Katarina and Chace handle the situations that occurs to how Katarina tries to accept but has a hard time and here Chace trying to protect her, her family his and close friends and trying to control the situations.
This book has made me clearer on the plot and has me more and more loving all the character's especially Chase and Katarina. In understanding this series you will need to read all of them to understand that there are many degrees to how ìnnocence to acceptance and to be able to control and then having them all in or on the same level.
Via Mari has written the most intriguing series that I've ever read and now I'm finally getting into the 4th book Degrees of Power can't wait to read to see how Via Mari ends this series, ,,or is it??
Profile Image for Samuel Bravo.
2 reviews
May 5, 2017

Here comes the third one to increase my love and respect for the author Via Maria. Via you are slowly slowly climbing to the top to claim my most favorite authors honour. This Book 3 comes up with an intense situation where Katarina meets the situation of her life and she declines Chase's marriage proposal. However under the compulsion of their emotional and sexual needs, Katarina must reconsider her personal convictions and face right or wrong head on if they are to transcend their differences. As usual, I finished it at a single go and the more I am reading the books of this series, the more I am getting super excited to complete this entire series...Waiting eagerly for Book 4 to see whats next !!!!!!
Profile Image for Ola Adamska.
2,881 reviews26 followers
December 6, 2017
I had doubts about this series when it was compared to 50 Shades... that this series will fail me like the one by EL James.
This one is about the same but completely different! Characters are strong and full.
Chase is so considerate when he says that kind o relationship is about trust - that's true and can't be omitted. Strong, masculine and commanding.
Katarina - in book 1 she was understanding and trying to do everything she could do for this relationship. Here she starts doubting and tries to find a truth about what had really happened. She thinks the worst as Chase hadn't told her anything.
Will they manage t stay as a couple, trust issues will be defeated?
1 review
May 5, 2017
I have become a huge Via Mari's fan after reading the book 1 & 2 of Degree of Innocence so when I saw she had written the book 3 I knew I just had to read it immediately. This series comes with an emotional roller coaster for Katarina as she learns about the prearranged strategy and gets herself into a situation where she must reconsider her decision again. Loved this book too.. Great book 3 story and good pacing.. Really connected with the main characters and previous books. Can't wait to read more from this author in the future.
Profile Image for DianaC-Bookaholic And.
352 reviews3 followers
December 15, 2017
As if this story was not intense enough, here comes this third installment with one huge wow factor, jaw dropping, heart stopping moments.

Chase and Kate once again managed to turn the heat with their sizzling love, passion and loyalty like no other.

If you're looking for an intense, alpha billionaire then Mr. Chase Prestian is your man.

Via Mari once again delivers another exceptional book. I can not wait to see how this series comes to an end.

I voluntarily review an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Bobbi Wagner.
4,999 reviews63 followers
September 29, 2017
Degrees of Control (A Prestian Series Book 3) by Via Mari is the third book in her A Prestian series. I highly suggest that you read the previous two books as this one picks up where the last left off, you will be missing an awesome series. I love this series. This author's writing style is suck that she pulls you into the story from the first word and will keep you engaged until the very end. Her attention to details are just awesome. She makes you feel like you are right there with the characters. Her characters are connectable, lovable and true to life. They will take you on a roller coaster ride that you won't want to get off. Their twists and turns will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat one minute and the next needing ice water. This is the continuation of Kate and Chase's story. This story picks up where Chase has proposed to Kate and she declined. With danger lurking in the shadows, they are forced to pretend the are engaged. This is where the story picks up and the action, suspense and of course you can't miss their hot, steamy sex. Are they in danger? Is their freedom threatened? When the situation deems her to take control will she be able to do it? I love these characters, they are so strong. I loved that we get to see another side of Kate in this book. I won't give anything away so you will have to read their story. She shows strength and guts that we have not seen before. She does have some issues with trust and right and wrong. At times, she makes me mad because she is so strong headed to see what is best. Chase is just the gorgeous hero in this story. He is controlling and just wants things done his way. He is a little soft when it comes to her. There is a twist in here that you won't see coming that left me yelling at my kindle. I love his character such the alpha. I also enjoy the secondary characters in this book. They really do make the story flow and it wouldn't be the same without them. Some are lovable and others you won't like as much as always in a story. I couldn't put this story down! I highly recommend you read this story from first book to the last. I can't wait to read book four. You have to see what happens to Kate and Chase. Will Kate learn to trust Chase?
Profile Image for Angela.
8,256 reviews121 followers
November 30, 2018
5 Stars

Degrees of Control is the third book in the Prestian series by Via Mari. It is an erotic romantic suspense- full of emotion, highs and lows, mystery, action, danger, secrets, danger, passion, and more. I have been really enjoying this series, zipping my way through each book just because I need to know what’s going to happen. I had high expectations for this book and am happy to say that it was just as good as the first two, and definitely kept me hooked the whole way through. This book should be read as part of the series as there is a bridging story that continues from book to book, plus there are all the character introductions and other relevant information that you will need in order to really appreciate the story/series- so I strongly advise you to read the first two books before starting off on this one.
After the events in the previous book this one picks up with Kate deciding that Chase’s choices aren’t for her and has turned down his marriage proposal. But circumstances arise where she will need to play along and put up a front of being a happy couple. With their chemistry simmering just below the surface, it doesn’t take much for their passions to unleash. But with so much still up in the air, Katarina has some decisions to make……
Kate really frustrated me a lot through this story with all her trust issues, being hard to get along with, and generally being difficult and stubborn- placing herself and others in danger. I wanted to yell at her at times.
There is plenty of suspense and the tension was built to a very high level- which had me on the edge of my seat a lot of the time. There were a few unexpected developments and twists which kept thing quite interesting and had me clamouring to know how it all works out. Bring on the next book!

Thank you, Ms. Mari!
Profile Image for Amber.
489 reviews63 followers
December 16, 2017
This book just put me through an emotional gauntlet! I went from mad to happy and all the emotions in between. This series just keeps getting better and better, and with each book I just get even more emotionally invested in the characters.
I love that this book was a little bit darker and had lots of action. I couldn't put it down until I finished and now I HAVE to read book four ASAP.
If your looking for an emotional, action filled, and sinfully sexy series I definitely recommend this one.
Profile Image for Debbie  Victorino.
448 reviews10 followers
July 7, 2020
Must read.
This is the 3rd book in this series and another great book from this author.Chase has proposed to Katarino she won't accept. Chase will stop at nothing to get her. These 2 were together from necessity, but the sexual tension is unbelievable between them. Can they get together,? Can they accept each others issues good and bad? Grab the book to find out you won't sorry. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Tori Carlson.
89 reviews21 followers
December 16, 2017
I was challenged to read all of this series in a matter of days. Now normally I take my time to savor it but....with this series I didn't need time. I needed more, more of Chase and Kate, more of their emotions and story. I couldn't put these books down as I devoured each and every one of them with more enthusiasm than the last.

This baby is worth the read, but I do suggest reading the first two first, otherwise you might get a wee bit lost.
Profile Image for Laid-Back Book Bitches.
360 reviews99 followers
December 5, 2017
OMG I love this series so much!!!! With every book I have been addicted and looking forward to the next book....... I do believe this book is my favorite so far. With this book Chase and Katarina are facing ups and downs, surprised me. I can not wait til to start book 4. These books are the up there on my favorite reads of 2017!
Profile Image for tania.
426 reviews2 followers
December 16, 2017
What can I say this book has me drawn in from the start.

I loved all the twist and turns of the whole story, chase's is still by far my favourite character.

I would recommend this books loads and it is one of my top 10 fav reads

Fives stars well deserved
Profile Image for Pam TroupeJones.
15 reviews
December 16, 2017
"Degrees of Control" Takes an intresting spin in in the beginning! It does not disappoint at all because just keeps building upon that and around it. It so Amazing how Chase can handle Kate and her father mother. Him knowing everything.Ms Mari
Great job
3 reviews
May 7, 2017
Excellent read. Love the heroine and hero and the plot. Reminds me of the books for author E. L. James.
370 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2017
Getting better

I really enjoyed reading this one. I think both characters made a point and each had a good stance on why their relationship was in the state it was.
Profile Image for Staci.
450 reviews1 follower
December 4, 2017
My goodness

Can't these two catch a break. So much excitement in this book, almost a few teary moments too. But the love is so great
363 reviews
December 16, 2017
Wow

A fake relationship, family turning on each other for power, deadly drugs, and now a wedding to plan, this story had it all
Not to mention how hot the bedroom play time was
Profile Image for Becky Ballenger.
664 reviews19 followers
January 20, 2018
Heck yessss!!!!! I need more!!!!!! Via, you’re AHHHHMAZING!!!!! I cannot wait for the end of this series!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Renee.
743 reviews21 followers
June 28, 2017
2 stars

I almost DNFd because this story dragged. I thought it would end at the end of this book but come to find out there is actually a fourth book that isn't out yet. I honestly don't think I will wait for it to come out because, frankly, I'm just not invested in these character's lives any longer.
Katerina became a hated character in this installment. She started off in the beginning of the series as understanding and willing to do and put up with what was required of her for the benefit of her relationship and security but in this book she became petulant, argumentative, and basically broke up with Chase because of a lack of trust. Chase was hoping she would trust him but she expected and believed the worse of him instead. Of course less than 24 hours later she was back in his bed and saying she wanted to try to work through their problems. Then a few days later she was back to accusing him of every wrongdoing. Her actions put him, herself, and everyone else in extreme danger. I have rarely read about a character that was so annoying and unworthy of a relationship.
At this point I would have advised the hero - Chase- to write her off. I teared up a couple times, not for her or the loss of her relationship but for him, because the woman he loves thinks he's a monster when he's never done anything but try to protect her.
After this far into the story and facing her childish behavior I would advise my friends not o even start the first book. Maybe it gets better and because an awesome love story but I don't think I'll ever find out.
Sorry, wish I could say something more positive. All along I complained about the writing but the story itself made me want to continue but now with this character and her behavior I just want to shake her and make her beg this wonderful man for forgiveness. Unfortunately she doesn't and he never expected her to, so disappointing. But as the reader I wanted to see some groveling
Profile Image for Kathy Rouchelle .
969 reviews15 followers
December 14, 2017
Yep, just when I thought that Katarina's character was smart, she goes and does something stupid! You will have to read for yourself because I'm not telling. With that exception, I continue to love this story and the characters. The intrigue continues to mount as the drama begins to unfold regarding the cartel and who the possible "rat" could be. Danger lurks around every corner but Chase makes sure that everyone that he and Katarina care for are protected and safe. That is until the plan that they have set in motion takes an unexpected turn when Katarina does her stupid and their plans go a little sideways on top of that. But it does make for a thrilling nail biting scene. This book will have your emotions rolling from one end of the spectrum to the other and you will find it hard to put this book down for even a minute. It is a great, fast paced read that will have you turning pages as fast as you can read. The one constant in this story is the love between Chase and Katarina and those hotter than Hates bedroom scenes (that don't always take place in the bedroom). In this particular spectrum of the story, her training continues in the art of BDSM and she is enjoying each and every excruciatingly satisfying experience.

This is a great read, great series and I highly recommend it!!!
Profile Image for Maura.
2,180 reviews6 followers
November 21, 2018
This is Book 3 in the Prestian Series and I'm a little torn on this one. I truly thought this was the last book in the series but it turns out there is a 4th book. I'm ok with that. What I'm bummed about is that I am not as in love with the female protagonist as I was in the first 2. This book series moves at a really quick pace, so it's natural that her feelings would change that fast also. HOWEVER, at times she is just down right mean. As I write this review, I realize that's what makes a story good - having FEELINGS about a character instead of just being indifferent. For that reason, I will read the fourth to find out how it all wraps up.

This is a series that has intrigue and drama - It's a roller coaster of drama and emotions. It has some cute and quirky moments and some dark and dangerous elements as well. At times it's a perfect balance and at times it leans heavily to one side.

The story is developed and well plotted and this series MUST be read in order or it will make no sense. Please don't do the author the disservice of reading out of order.



Profile Image for Sara Oxton.
3,791 reviews17 followers
November 15, 2018
Degrees of Control by Via Mari a four-star read you will want to control. This is the third book in the Prestian Series and I would definitely recommend you read them in order to get the whole story, if you started with this one you wouldn’t go back as the main character Katarina grows on you during the first two books and in this one you would just hate her if you didn’t know the background, I did and I still had moments with her. Chase is someone many will love, and overall I did, I just had moments with him too, there are some heavy sexy scenes in this series and they really do have a place and depth to them that pulls the story together. The suspense and drama in this read are great and will keep you hooked all the way through.
Profile Image for Fawn Michaels.
Author 2 books9 followers
January 23, 2018
I like the chemistry between Chase and Kate. Its hot and steamy. But, Kate just started to annoy me in this book. One minute she's all in love with Chase and wants a future with him. Next, she's like I don't know how we can be together if we don't have trust. I mean seriously make up your mind.

I did like all the suspense this book had! I had quite a few OMG moments. And I teared up in a few spots I read. But all in all it wasn't to bad!

I voluntarily agreed to read this book and this is my honest review!
Profile Image for Melissa.
439 reviews4 followers
November 24, 2017
I enjoyed this book the most. Between Katarina and Chase and their romance. Their ups and downs going on, which was a bit surprising, I still enjoy their story. Hoping Jenny finds her happy ending too! Reading the next book!
Profile Image for Sarah DeLong.
1,755 reviews1 follower
January 30, 2021
Third book in the Prestian Series, we get to see more of Katrina's issues with trust and learn more of her and Chase's relationship. You must read books one and two in the series to get the full benefit of the story.
Profile Image for Suzannah Safi.
Author 17 books7 followers
May 5, 2017
This book gets better and better. If you are a fan of erotic romance, and Fifty Shads of Gray, you must read this one.
3 reviews
May 11, 2017
I read the first two books, it’s getting better, and better, this author is a master in showing suspense in the events and emotions. Excellent read!
3 reviews
May 14, 2017
Loved the 3rd book and can't wait for book 4 in the series. I highly recommend for erotic romance fans.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews

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