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Mafia Heirs #3
Julian's Torment
She's going to pay for the ultimate sin... Defying me.
JULIAN
My hate for the Esposito family goes back a decade. When I was eight years old, Francesca snubbed me.
Back then, I was a nobody. But then Bruno Bernardi adopted me into his famiglia. Now I have money. Power. And my debtors pay for their sins... in blood.
Francesca will experience the full extent of my wrath. We're classmates now, but the school won't protect her.
At The University, money rules over all. And Francesca's got nothing but her name now... that, and a target between her pretty little legs.
FRANCESCA
When I was a little girl, I made a fatal mistake. I offended Julian, now one of the Bernardi heirs.
I was a bratty little girl then, but now, I have nothing. Watching my family fall apart and our riches being taken away from us has broken me.
I thought I could deal with it all.
Until Julian.
He wants to degrade and humiliate me.
He wants to destroy me.
He wants to play wicked little games to bring me to my knees and pledge my allegiance.
But I will not kneel for him. I'd rather take his torment than admit he's my Master. He can't break me.
Or can he?
Julian's Torment is the third book of the Mafia Heirs series. All books can be read as standalones. This is a dark mafia romance.
JULIAN
My hate for the Esposito family goes back a decade. When I was eight years old, Francesca snubbed me.
Back then, I was a nobody. But then Bruno Bernardi adopted me into his famiglia. Now I have money. Power. And my debtors pay for their sins... in blood.
Francesca will experience the full extent of my wrath. We're classmates now, but the school won't protect her.
At The University, money rules over all. And Francesca's got nothing but her name now... that, and a target between her pretty little legs.
FRANCESCA
When I was a little girl, I made a fatal mistake. I offended Julian, now one of the Bernardi heirs.
I was a bratty little girl then, but now, I have nothing. Watching my family fall apart and our riches being taken away from us has broken me.
I thought I could deal with it all.
Until Julian.
He wants to degrade and humiliate me.
He wants to destroy me.
He wants to play wicked little games to bring me to my knees and pledge my allegiance.
But I will not kneel for him. I'd rather take his torment than admit he's my Master. He can't break me.
Or can he?
Julian's Torment is the third book of the Mafia Heirs series. All books can be read as standalones. This is a dark mafia romance.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2021
60 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
About the author
Isabella Starling
103 books2,652 followersUSA Today bestselling author Isabella Starling describes her books with three words: dark, dirty and forbidden.
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CHECK OUT MY INSTAGRAM!
https://www.instagram.com/authorisabe...
VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE!
https://amzn.to/3lhl4R5
VISIT ME ON FACEBOOK!
https://www.facebook.com/authorisabel...
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER!
https://twitter.com/authorstarling
SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTER!
https://subscribepage.com/isabellasta...
And don't forget to join my Facebook group Good Girls Love Bad Boys to be the first to see my new covers, receive ARC opportunities & connect with myself and other readers! We do tons of giveaways and author takeovers too.
Click on the pic below to join!
CHECK OUT MY INSTAGRAM!
https://www.instagram.com/authorisabe...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
February 5, 2022
I really had to think about my rating on this book. I love the author's work and the concept of the book. Let’s start with what I liked first.
Julian had nothing and no one, and Francesca was the mafia princess. Short fee years later, the roles are now reversed. Julian now adopted a wealthy mafia prince. Francesca falls from grace from her father. Both are now in University for troubled children of the mafia. Francesca was severely bullied. My heart went out to her.
While Julian was sent there for being the bad boy,
My concern is Julain is grateful he is adopted, yet he can’t do what he is asked of by his father. Yes, if he didn't do this, there wouldn't be a book. Safety is never an issue with me. I just felt he was a spoiled brat. And as he did have some significant character growth, he still was man child. While the book goes from past to present. (Which I Love) There are too many inconsistencies between the timelines, affecting my enjoyment of the book.
Overall I did enjoy the book; I didn’t love it.
February 3, 2022
3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Mafia Romance (University)
Story: 3.5/5
Enjoyment: 3.85/5
Dark Level: 1.5/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes
Male: Revengeful
Series: Book 3
Pages: loc. 2597
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
WHAT I LIKED:
The concept of this story is one that I like. The boy who had nobody or nothing and the rich mafia princess, whose roles are now reverse. He’s rich with a status and her family has fallen from grace in the mafia community. Julian was adopted later in life and he was a bad boy but really he was having sex with anything that moved with a hole. With his rebellious and bad boy ways, he was sent away to THE UNIVERSITY, an establishment where crime families send their offsprings to mold them. Francesca really had it bad at the University. She was bullied, laughed at and pretty much the gum at the bottom of her shoe was treated better than her. She tried to be strong, but she was not fully there. Throughout the story, it goes between past and present, showing the history between Julian and Francesca, building up to what really happened for him to feel the way he did about her as he despises her. I did not read the other books in the serious but it did not hinder me for catching on to a backstory.
WHAT WAS SO SO:
Some inconsistencies bothered me a bit, nothing major but it affected my enjoyment a bit. I believe Julian is older than Francesca, not in an age gap way. When Francesca was sent to the University, she was 19. When Julian was adopted he was 18 and this is around the time he knew Francesca. So it wasn’t until years later until they met again at the University. The things that went on at the University gave me too much of a high school vibe, so Julian and Francesca acted like 16 year olds and not like they were in an establishment molding these young mafia heads. The best friend or should I say good friend that Francesca met was 15, so basically sometimes the dynamics threw me off a bit. New adult grown or new adult kids.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY
I liked their sex scenes, nothing crazy. It came later on in the book but worth the wait for both characters.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
I like Luciana wish she had her own story. You also had your typical mean girl who was extremely annoying and the biggest bully of all. It was interesting seeing Epilogue with Santino for the next upcoming book.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? Yes. Did I like the story? Yes with a few buts. Would I read the other books in the series? Yes, my curiosity has heighten with this series.
TRIGGERS: assault and bullying
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Style: Dark Mafia Romance (University)
Story: 3.5/5
Enjoyment: 3.85/5
Dark Level: 1.5/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes
Male: Revengeful
Series: Book 3
Pages: loc. 2597
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
WHAT I LIKED:
The concept of this story is one that I like. The boy who had nobody or nothing and the rich mafia princess, whose roles are now reverse. He’s rich with a status and her family has fallen from grace in the mafia community. Julian was adopted later in life and he was a bad boy but really he was having sex with anything that moved with a hole. With his rebellious and bad boy ways, he was sent away to THE UNIVERSITY, an establishment where crime families send their offsprings to mold them. Francesca really had it bad at the University. She was bullied, laughed at and pretty much the gum at the bottom of her shoe was treated better than her. She tried to be strong, but she was not fully there. Throughout the story, it goes between past and present, showing the history between Julian and Francesca, building up to what really happened for him to feel the way he did about her as he despises her. I did not read the other books in the serious but it did not hinder me for catching on to a backstory.
WHAT WAS SO SO:
Some inconsistencies bothered me a bit, nothing major but it affected my enjoyment a bit. I believe Julian is older than Francesca, not in an age gap way. When Francesca was sent to the University, she was 19. When Julian was adopted he was 18 and this is around the time he knew Francesca. So it wasn’t until years later until they met again at the University. The things that went on at the University gave me too much of a high school vibe, so Julian and Francesca acted like 16 year olds and not like they were in an establishment molding these young mafia heads. The best friend or should I say good friend that Francesca met was 15, so basically sometimes the dynamics threw me off a bit. New adult grown or new adult kids.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY
I liked their sex scenes, nothing crazy. It came later on in the book but worth the wait for both characters.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
I like Luciana wish she had her own story. You also had your typical mean girl who was extremely annoying and the biggest bully of all. It was interesting seeing Epilogue with Santino for the next upcoming book.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? Yes. Did I like the story? Yes with a few buts. Would I read the other books in the series? Yes, my curiosity has heighten with this series.
TRIGGERS: assault and bullying
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
February 16, 2022
This was a great read from this writing duo ! I love the bully trope and was super excited to read this the writing is excellent I loved the characters captivating storyline overall a very enjoyable read! Loved this fast paced mafia bully romance!
February 1, 2022
Julian and Francesca’s story was very startling and surreal. The tides have changed the poor young man Julian becomes a powerful Bernardi and the affluent family that Francesca is from falls from grace and their roles are reversed.
The majority of this story takes place at The University, which is a school for mafia heirs and heiresses. Francesca is bullied and pushed around and Julian is the king of the school.
This story was, at times, very intense and at other times heart warming. And it was so good!
The majority of this story takes place at The University, which is a school for mafia heirs and heiresses. Francesca is bullied and pushed around and Julian is the king of the school.
This story was, at times, very intense and at other times heart warming. And it was so good!
January 28, 2022
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : none
Hero : Julian
Heroine : Francesca
Pace of the story : Fast
Angst Rating : 4/10
Heat Rating : 5/10
Triggers Involved : Humiliation
Plot Summary :
Julian and Francesca knew each other before their lives got changed forever. They were in love before Francesca ruined it all. She snubbed the man she loved , destroying him to a life of pain and suffering . But now things are different. Francesca was the one who was ruined because her family and Julian had risen ranks.
This time when he saw Francesca , it wouldn't be her looking down her nose on him. He will take all the revenge he has ever wanted and so much. He will ruin her and enjoy it.
Overall Opinion :
Damn , I have been waiting for this one ever since I read a snippet of the book in the last book of this series. Isabella always has this tinge of darkness in her books that attract me!
This one was a standalone , dark , enemies to lovers , second chance romance. I found that the story was good but it was a bit too abrupt for me. The way one moment Julian was taking joy in publicly humiliating Francesa and then Forgiving her the next, gave me a whiplash lmao. Also certain things in the storyline did not make sense to me. Like about Bruno. Why did he do that? And why were his actions sort of dismissed so abruptly. Like I said , It seemed rushed to me. I liked the steamy scenes and the ensign too , I just wish it had been a bit more smoother.
That being said , this one was a good one time read for me. The book is pretty short so It didn’t take me a long time to finish it!
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February 11, 2022
In a role reversal, Julian impoverished meets and is immediately infatuated with Francesca who upon learning of his social status, rebuffs him. Years later, Francesca whose family is now scorned and lost all their money attends university on scholarship where Julian, bad boy favorite and affluent adopted son of a mafia boss, scorns her.
This story was an easy read, quick pace with an undercurrent of sexual tension. The issues I had were the fluidity of the story. Where I would expected storyline transitions, they were a little disjointed. Also, the heroine was not very endearing even when she was in a position of less social power. She just came across as selfish. Finally, the book felt like a mixture of disparate themes that didn't align themselves -- high school bully romance, which I love, crossed with mafia and set un university. While college aged, the activity and characters read more like high school.
I generally enjoy these authors for entertaining reading with possessive antiheroes and a hint of darkness, but this story faltered a bit in execution. I remain overall interested in this series.
This story was an easy read, quick pace with an undercurrent of sexual tension. The issues I had were the fluidity of the story. Where I would expected storyline transitions, they were a little disjointed. Also, the heroine was not very endearing even when she was in a position of less social power. She just came across as selfish. Finally, the book felt like a mixture of disparate themes that didn't align themselves -- high school bully romance, which I love, crossed with mafia and set un university. While college aged, the activity and characters read more like high school.
I generally enjoy these authors for entertaining reading with possessive antiheroes and a hint of darkness, but this story faltered a bit in execution. I remain overall interested in this series.
January 29, 2022
Julian and Francesca have a past and what will happen when they have to face each other again?
Both Julian and Francesca were in love but it was ruined. Now their relationship is in the past and the only thing they have now is heartbreak and revenge.
Can they let go of their past and move on?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Both Julian and Francesca were in love but it was ruined. Now their relationship is in the past and the only thing they have now is heartbreak and revenge.
Can they let go of their past and move on?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2022
DNF 60%
Because i found out from their past chapter that they were together all the way.
Meaning that after that, he became a manwhore and fucked any hole he could find.
I knew he was a dick but i never thought and knew before 60% that they did more than talking.
Now i can get it that when she lied to her father (mind you, to save their ass) he was hurt, but still, i can't stand the fact that after that he fucked around , while she didn't.
What a waste of time :'(
Look, i didn't care about his ways while they weren't an item, but i truly thought that they were never intimate!!!!!! i hate when this happens, when we have past and present chapters and i find out really LATE some ugly stuff that make me remove instantly the book. :(
Look, if they were only kissing back then i wouldn't have any problem with it.
Because i found out from their past chapter that they were together all the way.
Meaning that after that, he became a manwhore and fucked any hole he could find.
I knew he was a dick but i never thought and knew before 60% that they did more than talking.
Now i can get it that when she lied to her father (mind you, to save their ass) he was hurt, but still, i can't stand the fact that after that he fucked around , while she didn't.
What a waste of time :'(
Look, i didn't care about his ways while they weren't an item, but i truly thought that they were never intimate!!!!!! i hate when this happens, when we have past and present chapters and i find out really LATE some ugly stuff that make me remove instantly the book. :(
Look, if they were only kissing back then i wouldn't have any problem with it.
February 2, 2022
Julian and Francesca have a bully-type romance with the story going back and forth between past and present to show the progression from when they were younger and what happened between them. The chemistry is great. I did have issues with their ages and the way they behaved as it seemed as though they were younger than they actually were.
March 6, 2022
Julian's Torment by Isabella Starling and Raven Scott is book Three in the Mafia Heirs Series but can be a standalone book. This is the story of Julian and Francesca. Julian has a dislike for Francesca because he feels she snubbed him and treated him badly when they where younger. Now in their present day they find themselves both going to a school for the troubled. But he is now in power where she is the lower one getting bullied. Enjoyed their story and highly recommend these two authors!
February 4, 2022
I received a copy of this book form the publisher/author to review.
JULIAN
My hate for the Esposito family goes back a decade. When I was eight years old, Francesca snubbed me. Back then, I was a nobody. But then Bruno Bernardi adopted me into his famiglia. Now I have money. Power. And my debtors pay for their sins...in blood...
Francesca will experience the full extent of my wrath. We're classmates now, but the school won't protect her. At The University, money rules over all. And Francesca's got nothing but her name now...that, and a target between her pretty little legs.
FRANCESCA
When I was a little girl, I made a fatal mistake. I offended Julian, now one of the Bernardi heirs. I was a batty little girl then, but now I have nothing. Watching my family fall apart and our riches being taken away from us has broken me. I thought I could deal with it all. Until Julian. He wants to degrade and humiliate me. He wants to degrade and humiliate me. He wants to destroy me. He wants to play wicked little games to bring me to my knees and pledge my allegiance. But I will not kneel for him. I'd rather take his torment than admit he's my Master. He can't break me. Or can he?
This is the third book in the Mafia Heirs Series from Raven Scott and Isabella Starling. Each book can be read as a standalone. If you haven't read the first two in the series you can read this book without having done that but I so suggest that you read those books too because they are absolutely amazing.
Julian and and Francesca have known each other for years. She was the rich girl and he was the poor boys from the wrong tracks. He has an attraction to her and when he approaches her he was snubbed or maybe it wasn't really a snub and he just didn't know it. But this all lead to a brief affair that was super intense. When her father finds out about them, death threats are flying all over the place and that is the end of them. No closure no nothing for them and Julian is very very angry about it too. Now years have passed and Francesca or I guess I should say that her family has lost everything. They were once rich and now struggle for any and everything they have and this really broke Francesca. Meanwhile Julian was dealt a hand that ended up putting him right in the middle of the very rich and powerful Beneradi family. He was adopted by them and instantly rich and an heir. They are a mafia family also. Now that circumstances have changed and Julian is a totally different person he is out to hate, humiliate and punish Francesca. At the same time thought he really wants to have all the control over her while protecting and saving her. Francesca is broken and things just keep getting worse and worse for her but she is still at The University where all the kids are loaded and have power but she is the total opposite of all that now and Julian she knows is out to get her and make her pay. What's a girl to do?? Well you have to read to find out. I don't even think that I read the blurb for this book I just knew from reading the other two that this one was the one that I was waiting on to read and I loved every single second. Filled with secrets and lies, deception, enemies that have to be taken out and a couple that still want each other as much as they always did but are now different people. It has twists and turns that will keep you guessing what is going to happen and it is smoking hot. What's not to love about that. You need this book in your life. I am so in love with all of them but this one just might be my favorite one of them all!!
JULIAN
My hate for the Esposito family goes back a decade. When I was eight years old, Francesca snubbed me. Back then, I was a nobody. But then Bruno Bernardi adopted me into his famiglia. Now I have money. Power. And my debtors pay for their sins...in blood...
Francesca will experience the full extent of my wrath. We're classmates now, but the school won't protect her. At The University, money rules over all. And Francesca's got nothing but her name now...that, and a target between her pretty little legs.
FRANCESCA
When I was a little girl, I made a fatal mistake. I offended Julian, now one of the Bernardi heirs. I was a batty little girl then, but now I have nothing. Watching my family fall apart and our riches being taken away from us has broken me. I thought I could deal with it all. Until Julian. He wants to degrade and humiliate me. He wants to degrade and humiliate me. He wants to destroy me. He wants to play wicked little games to bring me to my knees and pledge my allegiance. But I will not kneel for him. I'd rather take his torment than admit he's my Master. He can't break me. Or can he?
This is the third book in the Mafia Heirs Series from Raven Scott and Isabella Starling. Each book can be read as a standalone. If you haven't read the first two in the series you can read this book without having done that but I so suggest that you read those books too because they are absolutely amazing.
Julian and and Francesca have known each other for years. She was the rich girl and he was the poor boys from the wrong tracks. He has an attraction to her and when he approaches her he was snubbed or maybe it wasn't really a snub and he just didn't know it. But this all lead to a brief affair that was super intense. When her father finds out about them, death threats are flying all over the place and that is the end of them. No closure no nothing for them and Julian is very very angry about it too. Now years have passed and Francesca or I guess I should say that her family has lost everything. They were once rich and now struggle for any and everything they have and this really broke Francesca. Meanwhile Julian was dealt a hand that ended up putting him right in the middle of the very rich and powerful Beneradi family. He was adopted by them and instantly rich and an heir. They are a mafia family also. Now that circumstances have changed and Julian is a totally different person he is out to hate, humiliate and punish Francesca. At the same time thought he really wants to have all the control over her while protecting and saving her. Francesca is broken and things just keep getting worse and worse for her but she is still at The University where all the kids are loaded and have power but she is the total opposite of all that now and Julian she knows is out to get her and make her pay. What's a girl to do?? Well you have to read to find out. I don't even think that I read the blurb for this book I just knew from reading the other two that this one was the one that I was waiting on to read and I loved every single second. Filled with secrets and lies, deception, enemies that have to be taken out and a couple that still want each other as much as they always did but are now different people. It has twists and turns that will keep you guessing what is going to happen and it is smoking hot. What's not to love about that. You need this book in your life. I am so in love with all of them but this one just might be my favorite one of them all!!
January 30, 2022
<3.5 stars> Another delicious story in this delicious Mafia Heirs series. This one dials up the bully trope, with the disgraced mafia princess and the former nobody now turned wealthy playboy. We get to see our characters off to the University, where crime families' kiddos get sent to shape their minds. Isabella and Raven deliver yet another action packed, fast paced, sexy story. THis one is highly entertaining, and I enjoyed both characters, though I felt a bit rushed and there were parts that felt inconsistent or unclear to me, especially with the back and forth timelines. I wish we’d had a bit more time to sit in a few decisions or moments- but I also appreciated how digestible the story is. All in all, enjoyable.
February 4, 2022
This series just keeps getting better and better. This is the story of Julian Bernardi and Francesca Esposito. Julian was a “nobody” until Bruno Bernardi “adopted” him. Francesca was a mafia princess – until her father betrayed the mafia. Now, she has nothing but a scholarship to the “University”. Francesca is tormented at the University and things become even worse when she sees Julian. They had a history and it did not end on good terms – she had snubbed him at a party when she found out he was just a server. Julian never got over this and wanted his revenge!
This story is very dark, very intense and contains bullying, manipulation, passion, violence, jealousy, growth, betrayal and revenge. There were a few twists and I was drawn in to this story from the beginning. I cannot wait to see what happens next in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story is very dark, very intense and contains bullying, manipulation, passion, violence, jealousy, growth, betrayal and revenge. There were a few twists and I was drawn in to this story from the beginning. I cannot wait to see what happens next in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 6, 2022
Julian is a member of the Bernardi family as he was taken in when he was young. Francesca snubbed him as a young girl and he never lets his enemies get away with anything. He will have Francesca on her knees for him. Francesca was a bratty little girl until her family lost everything. Now she's at the mercy of Julian for a slight in their youth. An interesting bully romance.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout.
January 26, 2022
This was an interesting story. Somethings that happen too Francesca, some might not like at all. Julian & Francesca have a past and Julian wants too humiliate her like she did him. I wasn’t sure of Julian at first but he grew in me. I really glad how Julian’s & Francesca story ended.
I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
February 3, 2022
When Julian sees Francesca at the same university he goes to he makes it his mission to drive her crazy but the years have changed them both. Francesca was just trying to keep her head above water given how her father has changed her dynamics do to decisions he made and the last thing she needs is Julian’s torment but he’s about to see how far she’s willing to go to keep her family ok!
February 8, 2022
It was a good story. Julian perfect OT JP.
Francesca was a bit soft, and easily used/bullied.. Didn't see much fighting from her.
This is an ARC review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Francesca was a bit soft, and easily used/bullied.. Didn't see much fighting from her.
This is an ARC review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 17, 2022
This was the 3rd book in the series and is Francesca and Julian’s story a enemies to lovers one. One of my favorite kind of reads and these two authors hit it right on. I loved it from the very first chapter. It’s dark and addicting for sure even through there are times you want to strangle Julian, it will be so worth reading to see what happens. I can’t wait for the next book to come!!
January 31, 2022
Received an ARC for honest review
I am a huge fan of Raven Scott and Isabella Starling and this series delivers. I always find myself immediately wanting more when I finish a book and this one is no different.
This is the 3rd book in the Mafia Heirs series which is focused on Julian Bernardi who is the most recent adopted son of Mafia Kingpin, Bruno Bernardi. Julian was raised by a negligent, drunk father and through a turn of fortune, is adopted into a wealthy mafia family. The story centers on Julian transitioning from a life of "have not" to "have" and what comes with that, how this changes him and his views, and ultimately who he will become.
The main female character is Francesca Esposito who was raised a Mafia princess and through a different set of circumstances loses her status as her family's fortunes change. Julian and Francesca have an undeniable chemistry and are drawn together, however, they find themselves on opposite sides of wealth at various, pivotal times, each experiencing the highs and lows of the mafia lifestyle. Julian and Francesca each do some needed growing throughout the storyline and ultimately get their HEA.
Highly recommend this book and series.
I am a huge fan of Raven Scott and Isabella Starling and this series delivers. I always find myself immediately wanting more when I finish a book and this one is no different.
This is the 3rd book in the Mafia Heirs series which is focused on Julian Bernardi who is the most recent adopted son of Mafia Kingpin, Bruno Bernardi. Julian was raised by a negligent, drunk father and through a turn of fortune, is adopted into a wealthy mafia family. The story centers on Julian transitioning from a life of "have not" to "have" and what comes with that, how this changes him and his views, and ultimately who he will become.
The main female character is Francesca Esposito who was raised a Mafia princess and through a different set of circumstances loses her status as her family's fortunes change. Julian and Francesca have an undeniable chemistry and are drawn together, however, they find themselves on opposite sides of wealth at various, pivotal times, each experiencing the highs and lows of the mafia lifestyle. Julian and Francesca each do some needed growing throughout the storyline and ultimately get their HEA.
Highly recommend this book and series.
February 3, 2022
My favourite of the series!
Julian's Torment is the third installment in the Mafia Heirs Series and can be read as a standalone.
I loved the concept of this book: poor boy is enchanted with rich girl and snubbed (under false pretense), comes for her again and they live an intense and short term young affair until her father cathches them and ends everything under a death threat. There was no closure, but there's lot of anguish and anger, specially on Julian's part and a lot of want too on both sides.
Couple years later, their roles are reversed and with it Julian's will to despise, humiliate and punish but, at the same time, to control, protect and save.
This is a very engaging narrative, with some mystery and hidden agendas, secrets to perserve, enemies to take down and a girl to claim, once and for all.
Why 4 stars and not 5?
I had wished for more intimacy or games of seduction earlier in the story - I would have liked to feel their connection and desire to the point of not being able to keep their hand of each other, even if it was just one time - and the last 25% of the book felt a bit rushed, imo. I needed a little more development in the final and a big lesson to her parents.
Julian's Torment is the third installment in the Mafia Heirs Series and can be read as a standalone.
I loved the concept of this book: poor boy is enchanted with rich girl and snubbed (under false pretense), comes for her again and they live an intense and short term young affair until her father cathches them and ends everything under a death threat. There was no closure, but there's lot of anguish and anger, specially on Julian's part and a lot of want too on both sides.
Couple years later, their roles are reversed and with it Julian's will to despise, humiliate and punish but, at the same time, to control, protect and save.
This is a very engaging narrative, with some mystery and hidden agendas, secrets to perserve, enemies to take down and a girl to claim, once and for all.
Why 4 stars and not 5?
I had wished for more intimacy or games of seduction earlier in the story - I would have liked to feel their connection and desire to the point of not being able to keep their hand of each other, even if it was just one time - and the last 25% of the book felt a bit rushed, imo. I needed a little more development in the final and a big lesson to her parents.
February 8, 2022
Julian’s Torment is Book 3 in the ‘Mafia Heirs’ series and tells the story of Julian, a heir in the powerful Bernardi crime family, and Francesca Esposito, princess in a once mighty Mafia family who have fallen on hard times and are now destitute. In the past, they were in love but Francesca snubbed Julian and he has held a deep grudge against her ever since. Now, years later, he finally has a chance to wreak his vengeance on her and bring her to her knees.
As with the previous books in this series, it’s a dark and delicious story that is both captivating and intriguing from the very first page. It’s an enemies-to-lovers, second chance, dark Mafia romance that can be read as a standalone but I would recommend reading the previous two books as they give you an insight into the family.
So, if you’re a fan of dark and twisted, hot and steamy Mafia romance then this series of books is for you. You won’t be disappointed. Overall, a really great must read! Can’t wait for further instalments in this series.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As with the previous books in this series, it’s a dark and delicious story that is both captivating and intriguing from the very first page. It’s an enemies-to-lovers, second chance, dark Mafia romance that can be read as a standalone but I would recommend reading the previous two books as they give you an insight into the family.
So, if you’re a fan of dark and twisted, hot and steamy Mafia romance then this series of books is for you. You won’t be disappointed. Overall, a really great must read! Can’t wait for further instalments in this series.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 9, 2022
I normally thoroughly enjoy the books of these author's that's why I'm surprised to find myself in this position of not being able to give my usual review. While the premise was good something got lost in the translation since there were quite a few inconsistencies that took away from the power of the story and the attention to detail that we normally receive from these author's was missing. The fact that Julien was adopted and he was very grateful to be adopted but then when the time comes and the family calls on him he's not going to do whatever they ask of him? That didn't ring true I know for storyline purposes it was written this way but it doesn't make sense character wise. It also seemed like their ages didn't match up they were supposed to be the same age but it seemed like Julian was older than Francesca but it wasn't very clear and they both acted immature so. I think that you should read this book and make up your own mind as this is only my opinion based on what I thought after I read this book and everyone has different opinions.
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.
April 22, 2022
Disgraced Famiglia
In the past, before Bruno adopted Julian, his societal status was beneath those of the mafia. A waiter when he first lays eyes on Francesca Esposito, principessa di famiglia, and is entranced. Unfortunately, his hopes immediately get crushed When she makes him feel lower than a commoner, a mere servant.
Fast forward to and Julian is now a Mafia Capo's son of the Bernardi famiglia and Francesca, well her family has been disgraced with all that's left in her life being the scholarship to The University. Continuously disappointing his father, Julian gets sent away to The University, a special training facility for Mafia heirs.
This book in this area is literally and figuratively just jumped all over the place. It felt like it was quickly written, I do not say no matter what Bruno is still my favorite character. But how these all parallel yet overlap differs. What happens in the book prior truly didn't happen the book after. I noted that in book 2 from book 1 and now I'm book 3 from book 2.
Hoping the fourth book holds up like the second book did. Second book, Ryan's storyline, just before my favorite so far.
In the past, before Bruno adopted Julian, his societal status was beneath those of the mafia. A waiter when he first lays eyes on Francesca Esposito, principessa di famiglia, and is entranced. Unfortunately, his hopes immediately get crushed When she makes him feel lower than a commoner, a mere servant.
Fast forward to and Julian is now a Mafia Capo's son of the Bernardi famiglia and Francesca, well her family has been disgraced with all that's left in her life being the scholarship to The University. Continuously disappointing his father, Julian gets sent away to The University, a special training facility for Mafia heirs.
This book in this area is literally and figuratively just jumped all over the place. It felt like it was quickly written, I do not say no matter what Bruno is still my favorite character. But how these all parallel yet overlap differs. What happens in the book prior truly didn't happen the book after. I noted that in book 2 from book 1 and now I'm book 3 from book 2.
Hoping the fourth book holds up like the second book did. Second book, Ryan's storyline, just before my favorite so far.
December 8, 2024
Julian’s Torment is the third installment in the Mafia Heirs series. This one is penned by Raven Scott and focuses on the Bernardi Crime family and in particular Julian, another adopted son of Bruno’s. Readers witness the romantic journey of Francesca Esposito and Julian Bernardi. In this character driven plot, readers witness the evolution of the main characters. Ms. Scott uses flashbacks and internal monologue to help readers get a better understanding of the lead characters through their backstories. Ms. Scott’s primary and secondary characters are multi-dimensional. Her command at using literary devices such as a dual POV, creation of outstanding dialog, and descriptive language contribute to moving her plot along. As in the other books in this series, the sex scenes were a bit raw. I did not appreciate the cruelty amongst the students of the Mafia University. The cruelty demonstrated by the students and Francesca’s pafents, as well as the archaic view of women as chattle seemed out of place. This was the least favorite of the books in this series. I felt both Julian and Francesca was juvenile.
January 30, 2022
What happens when fate turns the tables and the beautiful, rich girl becomes the poor outcast while the poor boy becomes the rich guy at the top of the social circle?
This was a good dark romance! There’s a lot of history between Julian and Francesca and not all of it good. Neither one of them has been able to forget what happened between them. One is regretful while the other is looking to torment.
There are moments of questionable behavior, and some that made me happy. I loved it when Francesca stood up to Miss Ricci! But I also hated how she treated Luciana when she wanted to go to the party. Julian was itching for revenge, but I loved how he couldn’t help but look out for Francesca.
This book was very good and I also liked the first two in the series. I’m definitely looking forward to Santino’s book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a good dark romance! There’s a lot of history between Julian and Francesca and not all of it good. Neither one of them has been able to forget what happened between them. One is regretful while the other is looking to torment.
There are moments of questionable behavior, and some that made me happy. I loved it when Francesca stood up to Miss Ricci! But I also hated how she treated Luciana when she wanted to go to the party. Julian was itching for revenge, but I loved how he couldn’t help but look out for Francesca.
This book was very good and I also liked the first two in the series. I’m definitely looking forward to Santino’s book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2022
Julian's Torment, book three in the Mafia Heirs series follows youngest adopted son of Bruno Bernardi, Julian and the daughter of a competing mafia family, Francesca Esposito. Julian and Francesca meet before Julian is adopted and working as a waiter at a local mafia event. Though the pair are immediately attracted to one another, Julian's status as 'the help' keeps them apart. Now it's been years later, and the Esposito family have been shamed and her family's fortune taken from them. Now that both of the teens are sent to The University, a school specifically for the children of mafia families, their paths cross and Julian can't wait to take his revenge. But what happens when old feelings resurface? Will Julian be able to stick to his original plan? Or will their feelings reignite the spark between them?
February 8, 2022
Julian and Francescas story switches between present day and the past, although I enjoyed the story I feel like some of the past excerpts maybe should have came a bit earlier.
Comments about their past betrayal and relationships were a bit confusing in the beginning as you were only really aware of a 5 minute meeting they’d had on the balcony until later in the book when there are more flash backs revealed.
Julian seems to go from rags to riches when he is adopted at 18 while Francesca life goes the opposite way when her father betrays the mafia. They both end up at the university together where Francesca life continues to get worse as she is bullied for her fathers deeds, Julian really wants to hate her and make her life hell so that she suffers but there’s a fine line between love and hate and a history between the pair.
3. stars
Comments about their past betrayal and relationships were a bit confusing in the beginning as you were only really aware of a 5 minute meeting they’d had on the balcony until later in the book when there are more flash backs revealed.
Julian seems to go from rags to riches when he is adopted at 18 while Francesca life goes the opposite way when her father betrays the mafia. They both end up at the university together where Francesca life continues to get worse as she is bullied for her fathers deeds, Julian really wants to hate her and make her life hell so that she suffers but there’s a fine line between love and hate and a history between the pair.
3. stars
February 9, 2022
I have to say as much as I enjoyed reading it I didn't love it. I've read several of Isa's book's and loved them and I've just found Raven's book's and I'm loving them, but this book I felt like the 2 Mc's were Francesca who absolutely couldn't buy a clue about trying to keep herself on the DL over the disgrace with her family and she still kept falling for the mean girls antics ugh I kept thinking she was going to grow a backbone and take that girl Adrianne down or at least stand up for herself to afraid that if she did the retaliation would be worse, but sometimes you have to stop being a doormat and letting people wipe their feet on you. Julian throughout the book was acting like a man child I wanted to pop him upside his head for being an idiot. I'm going to stop there and just say again I did enjoy reading this book and liked it, but I didn't love it like the others in this series.
February 10, 2022
Julian's Torment is the third book in the Mafia Heirs series. A Dark Mafia Romance. An enemy to lover, hate-to-love, bully turned poor, rags to riches, and revenge fueled. This is Francesca and Julian story. Julian was poor and Francesca bullied and snubbed him. He had harbored grudge for the Esposito family which goes back a decade for looking down on him. But then Bruno Bernardi adopted him into his famiglia. It's a role reversal because now Julian has money and power and she will feel his wrath. The two meet again at an university for mafia children to hone in on their skills. Her family now has nothing and he wants to degrade, humiliate, and break her. The story was fast paced and captivating with intriguing characters. It was easy to follow.
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 4, 2022
Julian's Torment is book 3 in the series and it is a dark mafia romance. This is Julian and Francesca's story. This book has murder, mystery, suspense, sex, and drama. Julian and Francesca have a past history that didn't end very well and left them both with unresolved feelings. Julian wants to hurt her for what happened but at the same time finds himself wanting to protect her.
She has to go through a society shunned for something her father did. What would you do if one day you were rich and then you lost it all? She now has to deal with the mean girls when that was who she used to be. All in all this was a very good book that kept me highly entertained! After reading the epilogue I'm looking forward to reading Santino's book!!!!
She has to go through a society shunned for something her father did. What would you do if one day you were rich and then you lost it all? She now has to deal with the mean girls when that was who she used to be. All in all this was a very good book that kept me highly entertained! After reading the epilogue I'm looking forward to reading Santino's book!!!!
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