Steffanie Holmes is the author of steamy historical and paranormal romance. Her books feature clever, witty heroines, wild shifters, cunning witches and alpha males who get what they want.
Before becoming a writer, Steffanie worked as an archaeologist and museum curator. She loves to explore historical settings and ancient conceptions of love and possession. From Dark Age Europe to crumbling gothic estates, Steffanie is fascinated with how love can blossom between the most unlikely characters.
Steffanie lives in New Zealand with her husband and a horde of cantankerous cats. Learn more about Steffanie at her website: www.steffanieholmes.com. She also writes dark science fiction under the name S C Green.
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When I tell some people that I read self-pub they somehow seem to think that my standards must be very low to actually like those books. They are wrong. Just like in regular publishing there are of course writers that are a better fit for me and writers that I don't like, but mostly the quality of the indie published books is amazing. In Steffanie Holmes' case it's even that amazing that I'm reading a contemporary maffia romance and I love it.
And I mostly love it because there are so many things at stake, there's so much happening, there is so much going on. I feel like every new book we discover more connections, more people involved, more deals gone wrong. And every book we learn something new about our heroine that changes the entire game. Those books are one big rollercoaster and when reading I have the adrenaline rushing through my veins and the need to read faster and faster.
Although the cliffhanger of this book isn't that different from the cliffhanger of the previous one, the cliffhangers might be the one thing I'm not a huge fan of when it comes to Holmes, mostly because they are brutal, the characters have grown and learned and are in an entirely different place right now. Where they were trying to wait to get free from the gangs in the previous books, they are now part of it. And if they want to survive they have to play.
The world in this book is brutal, lethal and at some times even sickening. It's the kind of world I never would have wanted to get in touch with, although most characters involved probably feel that way. I like how, in her own way, our heroine is trying to change the world a little. She won't make the world perfect and I'm sure she will keep on committing crimes, but still. I can't wait to see how the series ends in the next book!
Now that Brutus is gone there are only 2 Imperators left: Constantine Dio and Nero Lucian standing between Claudia and her destiny. With the help of George, and her 3 faithful guardians/lovers, she will begin to take the necessary steps to become the head of the August family, something that drives Anthony crazy since his cousin does not make it easy for him to protect her. One of the characters that has surprised me the most in this book has been Cleo, the bad bitch of the school, it turns out that she is even more rotten than we thought, but she is still no match for Claudia August. How much this girl likes her knives and branding people with fire. The relationship between Gabriel, Eli, Noah and Claudia progresses and there are a few steamy scenes in the book. 🔥🔥🔥🔥 After discovering Claudia's secret that she herself didn't know, I can't wait to know what she's going to do in the end. Will everyone be happily ever after or will it all end in a bloodbath?
Her princes call her Claws, but her name is Claudia August. She will protect the people she loves by any means necessary. If that means she has to kill her uncle and take over the August family business, so be it. She just has to find him first. While they search for answers to their many questions, Claudia and her friends will discover just how intertwined the rich and powerful, and the criminal enterprises in Emerald Beach have become. While she still poses as Mackenzie Malloy, a high school trip for the senior class to Germany will lead to a discovery that could derail Claudia's plans to take over her father's empire. Wow, beautifully well written, compelling and intriguing characters fighting to find out the ugly truths about their loved ones that have been lost. Sizzling hot and sexy read with some suspense, violence, unexpected and sometimes surprising twists in the plot kept me glued to the pages of this book. I love this series, and can hardly wait for the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
My goodness just when i thought id gotten my head around and worked out what was going on in this series something else happens that completely throws me. So much more so in this book i thought. Trips to Germany and England for Claudia and the guys - Noah, Eli and Gabriel uncover new information/secrets that give all of them an insight into things they thought they already knew. Family in particular are the ones that have the knives out and are certainly more vicious & underhand. Now part of the Triumvirate or so it would seem Claudia has to watch her back even more but her inner sanctum of hand picked family step up for her. This series is getting darker and bloodier. That just makes it hold my interest so much more. Its a brilliant read
I read the previous books and was really digging this series, but I'm giving up on it now because Claudia just agreed to marry Nero and Constantine and I'm giving up on HER. I just don't give a crap about how she's going to try to get herself out of this conundrum.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Steffanie, you are a mind trip. This series just gets better and more in depth. With twist and turns and so many angles, it feels like I'm on a thriller rollercoaster ride. So much mystery and suspense. My Broken Crown was filled with drama and action. As soon as we get answers for one thing, ten more pop up. I feel as though Claudia has really come into herself as a character. With the love and support of her boys, friends and family, Claws is slowly proving that she isn't one to be trifled with, that she really is a queen. I feel for each one of her boys. Eli, Noah and Gabriel. As these guys go on their journey with Claudia, they're each finding out that they once believed, isn't real. Noah is left reeling after hearing the truth about his mother as is Gabriel, who has always felt guilty over the death of his friend. Together this group is like the scooby gang, trying to uncover the truth. Their investigations lead to things they never would have imagined. Steffanie Holmes definitely took me on another suspenseful journey with this story. I was hoping the series would end with this book, but once again, Steff has left us hanging with yet another cliffhanger. What are you doing to me woman? I need book #4 My Savage Empire ASAP.
“But my three boyfriends wearing the August seal? It does me in. They have my back, no matter what. The protector. The fallen angel. The dark mirror.”
What an intriguing book! This dark romance includes everything that keeps me glued to the pages, obviously it’s dark, it’s devious, suspenseful, has bullies and it’s steamy. A well thought out plot, with an array of absolutely fabulous characters. Ms Holmes has a devious mind, that will keep you guessing what’s going on and you’ll be changing your mind constantly. I’m just glad that the next book My Savage Empire is being released on the 30th of August or in a fortnight. Unsure if it’s the conclusion, I’m thinking it will be but only time will tell.
The triumvirate is unbalanced and all are becoming a little unhinged with the upcoming Saturnalia. Claudia makes an entrance into the underworld that leaves Anthony seething. It all makes more sense once he tells her a secret he’s been keeping. With her three boyfriends by her side she is finally happy, however they are not so happy with the deal she made with the devils. She takes a stance to put things back the way they were which ruffles feathers, so she best watch her back.
Talk about being on the edge of your seat! This book just keeps getting better and better along with more of the mystery coming to light. Claudia and her princes have a lot to contend with and it looks like it's not quite over. She may be the daughter of a mobster (maybe) but she loves her princes and will do anything to save them. Eli with his animals, Noah in his darkness and Gabriel with his music and pain but it doesn't stop there as you will see in this next installment of Stonehurst Prep.
Honestly I can't say enough when it comes to the style and knowledge this author graces us with. The characters grab you by the heart and don't let go. You don't know if sometimes you love them or hate them but each new piece of the puzzle draws you closer to the feel of the Claudia and her family to which you become a part of. This is a must read series for those that love mystery, darkness, debauchery and so much more. Very well written!
I love this series. More secrets are revealed and some questions are answered. What Claudia thought was true she finds out has all been lies. I really don't want to give anything away and you have to start at book one. All the boys have a special place and role in this book. Claudia is slowly building her family and she is ready to take a stand and fight for her empire along with her happily ever after. Claudia is no longer content to hide in the shadows. There are words of wisdom her father told her that are used a lot in this book "Never forgot that only those you love can truly betray you." These words feel like a foreshadow for book four and I have so many theories none of which are answered in this book but keep me salivating for more. I love books that keep you guessing and this book does that. I wish I could give this series more than 5 stars because it is just that good.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Claudia (Claws aka Mackenzie) and her men (Noah, Eli and Gabriel), still have plenty of more secrets to uncover, and there will be plenty of blood to spill. Can she finally claim the August empire? Or will all her battles be in vain? You will need to read the others before this, to get the best experience, and the journey will certainly get bloody and be dark, but what would you expect from a story dealing with the criminal elements? I loved and couldn't put this book down, it had twists, romance, the drawing together of an odd ball family (that seems to make sense), and the characters keep drawing me in more. I can't wait to find out what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Secrets, secrets, and more secrets. Revenge so sweet!!! Claudia and her newly made “family” have learned more and more secrets. About her heritage and her guys’ families (which are just as corrupt as her crime boss family). Her guys and other innocents have been hurt by the Triumvirate, and she is bent on taking them all out. Even a peer of the realm who thinks he’s safe as a Lord of England. Anyone that hurt her, her three guys, and any other innocent victims. She might be the product of several crime bosses but she is better than them. She has love in her heart, a sense of loyalty, and justice. Family is what you make it and she might not have any living relatives, but that family she has made needs her protection and she will protect them. Even die trying.
My Broken Crown This book starts off with a bang, literally, Claudia/Mackenzie is shot! Brutus is dead, who shot Claudia? She must admit that she is not who her boys think she is. While she pretends to be Mackenzie she is Claudia August, daughter of the Mob boss. She is the heir and will set things right. But her journey through revenge leads to more questions than answers. She must keep her boys safe and close. So many twists and turns. Who can you trust? Intriguing characters, mafia, and a compelling mystery will keep you reading far into the night. How are the guys and their families involved? Grab this book for an entertaining ride!
This author has become one of my favorites and this series had me on the edge of my seat than once. You have so many twists and turns that you won't know whether you are coming or going. Claudia isn't the only one affected by the stones that are turned over and what she thought she knew about herself is one more lie. Without giving to much away I can tell you that this has violence, multiple partner sexual conduct, suspense, and so much more that you won't even realize you've reached the end until the cliff hanger. Highly recommended!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
One step closer to the finale! Surprising revelations, plot twists, and steamy love scenes in this third book of the series and still so many questions that need answers.
Claudia might be the shrewdest, toughest, most butt kicking heroine ever but her heart melts for her guys. Eli, Gabe and Noah are committed heart and soul to her and to helping her take back what is rightfully hers through any means necessary.
I am sure there are more shocking reveals to come but I can't wait to read the book four and finally know EVERYTHING!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This review is for the series. I enjoyed this RH/organized crime/friends-to-enemies-to-lovers series. What really made it for me is the heroine is the kind I'd want to be friends with. She is strong, kinda crazy and hilarious. Her guys each bring something to the table. It is filled with crazy twists, suspense and heat. The only downfall to this series is there are a number of mild plot holes within the books and from book to book. I hope this author gets some good beta readers and/or editor because her imaginative storytelling is enjoyable.
We finally find out some deep truths in book 3. As Claudia figures out where Mackenzie really is, what happened to the Malloys, who framing her boys, what happened to Dylan, how is she really going to set Antony free, and can she really run an empire by herself? Everything comes crashing down every time Claudia turns around or thinks she is one step ahead. Can her and the boys survive? Book 3 ends on a cliffhanger leaving you with more questions then answers.
Wow, i cant believe the direction this story is taking! There is so much action and so many twists!! I think i am still trying to get my head around everything that took place in this book! I'm really loving the characters and enjoying how their chemistry is really heating up! This has some really dark themes, but i can sense things are going to get more intense in the next book......Cant wait!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oh. My. God! What did I just read?! I’m honestly so in love with this series so far. Steffanie Holmes has done amazing work with these characters and the story development. It honestly feels like your right there, feeling and seeing what the characters are.
Claudia and her princes are just so perfect for each other! Eli with his kind heart, Gabriel and his soulfulness, and Noah with his darkness. They literally are made for Claudia! And that cliffhanger?!!! Fudge! I need book 4 now!!!
This series lost me completely. The characters get lost in the plot too. As much as I like some weird crazy plot, I need some realistic elements and this is not it. I can't believe the author added Yara. Why? What's her purpose? I don't understand how they all forgot about Mac as soon as she disappears. Wouldn't finding her their priority? It's mindblowing.
Grammar errors, continuity errors. This series needs a good edit too.
I enjoyed reading this book , it has a good storyline. The interaction and chemistry between the characters is wonderful, this book is entertaining and filled with action and adventure. I can't wait for more from this author. I received this book as a FREE ARC copy to read and I voluntarily leave this review.
This is one of my favorite dark RH harem reads as Claws is just as dark and twisted as her men, maybe even more so. I’m still not a huge fan of Eli but damn the steam in this book was intense! The twists and turns just keep on coming. Beware of the huge cliffhanger! I can’t wait to see how their story ends.
Personally I can't handle animals being mistreated in any way so that threw me off. I put down the book for a few weeks then continued. Didn't help that my own little precious passed while I was reading those chapters. The storyline is ok. I may finish when I'm feeling better about life itself.
The book was So good and I am ready to read The next one. I am hoping I am wrong about who is behind some of the things that has happened to Claudia. She so does not need any more betrayals. I love the dynamic with her and the boys and what we have found out and mystery that is still needed to be solved. Read this series.
Oh my, I thought the first two in this series were good but this one knocked me for a loop. There's still plenty of prep school drama and romance between Claes and her three dashing gentlemen, but the mob drama and issues with the real MacKenzie really puck up in this one. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading this one.
This might be the first TikTok book I read on recommendation and could not enjoy. I finished the series because I have to give the book a real chance. But this was just too much for me. And that says a lot. I Read 300 books a year and had a hard time finishing series. I skin read a lot towards the end.
Holy smokes this is one twist I didn’t expect from this situation to come to fruition. Mackenzie has made a huge impact in the whole situation that has led to a huge change that could affect everyone involved. I hope for her sake that she figures it out quickly. I can’t wait to see what’s next
There were a lot of secrets revealed in this book, mainly due to a lot of blackmail and intimidation. Although I like the series, this book just wasn’t my favorite. But by this time (book 3), I’m pretty invested in the story and characters, and things appear to be getting even more dangerous.
Jeez louise this book was a twisted tale that goes from animal abuse, human trafficking , drugs and assassins. Revelations, controlling family. But also a coming together, a peace between them and what's right.
Started out with a bang, built with increasing complexity and "wow didn't think of that" moments. I was completely drawn in until the end which was a *spoiler alert* cliffhanger!! Well done, Steffanie:)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The series continues to immerse the reader in a dark world of secrets. Just when you think you figured it out, the story goes in another direction. The ending is quite a cliffhanger.