What do you think?
Rate this book
The Vigliano Underworld #1
Of Violent Lineage
“My heart, if anyone in this world is going to kill you, it’s going to be me…”
After destroying the Lombardi family and rising to power as one of the infamous Mob Bosses of New York City, Giovanni Vigliano has finally achieved all his goals. But his territory is threatened by the traditional families he reigns over and they will only be satisfied one way: If Giovanni takes Isabella Lombardi, daughter of his enemy, as his wife.
A pawn to her family and new husband, Isabella is caught up in a deadly game of chess, where one wrong move could end with her being permanently removed from the board. Determined to avenge her family, Isabella begins to spy on the Vigliano family…only to find herself falling in love with its members.
However, the Vigliano’s enemies strike from the shadows and aim for those closest to her. To protect everything she holds dear, Isabella will go to ends she never thought herself capable of…and prove once and for all that she is of violent lineage.
After destroying the Lombardi family and rising to power as one of the infamous Mob Bosses of New York City, Giovanni Vigliano has finally achieved all his goals. But his territory is threatened by the traditional families he reigns over and they will only be satisfied one way: If Giovanni takes Isabella Lombardi, daughter of his enemy, as his wife.
A pawn to her family and new husband, Isabella is caught up in a deadly game of chess, where one wrong move could end with her being permanently removed from the board. Determined to avenge her family, Isabella begins to spy on the Vigliano family…only to find herself falling in love with its members.
However, the Vigliano’s enemies strike from the shadows and aim for those closest to her. To protect everything she holds dear, Isabella will go to ends she never thought herself capable of…and prove once and for all that she is of violent lineage.
Kindle Edition
Published September 19, 2021
43 people are currently reading
1244 people want to read
About the author
Bree Porter
13 books1,302 followersBree Porter came screaming into the world on Valentine’s Day, so she never had any choice but to be addicted to romance. Now she spends her day swooning over soulmate love and getting flagged by the government for her internet searches, all while conveniently ignoring her university assignment deadlines.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
September 30, 2021
4.25⭐️
i loved this so much and i NEED the next book like ASAP please. i just need to know what's gonna happen. now, this would've been a 5 star read if the beginning wasn't slow. formatting of the texts also had a few problems but i didn't really care.
i love giovanni so much. i mean this MAN. man of my goddamn dreams. he's what i call a COLD but HOT motherfucker. that scene with the glass... i'm woahh. i teared up because giovanni being a single parent is making me so emotional.
that ending is just something i'll be thinking about until the next book comes out. i swear i'm in shock. i love how twisted and haunted this is. PLEASE I NEED THE NEXT BOOK. i hate cliffhangers and i actually can't stop thinking of this book. i'm selfish i just wanna know what will happen ugh.
“ The world around me was a confusing and dangerous twist, but within the walls of his embrace, were peaceful and clear and safe.”
i loved this so much and i NEED the next book like ASAP please. i just need to know what's gonna happen. now, this would've been a 5 star read if the beginning wasn't slow. formatting of the texts also had a few problems but i didn't really care.
i love giovanni so much. i mean this MAN. man of my goddamn dreams. he's what i call a COLD but HOT motherfucker. that scene with the glass... i'm woahh. i teared up because giovanni being a single parent is making me so emotional.
that ending is just something i'll be thinking about until the next book comes out. i swear i'm in shock. i love how twisted and haunted this is. PLEASE I NEED THE NEXT BOOK. i hate cliffhangers and i actually can't stop thinking of this book. i'm selfish i just wanna know what will happen ugh.
September 16, 2021
*ARC provided for an honest review*
Of Violent Lineage is the first book of The Vigliano Underworld and the beginning to Giovanni and Isabella’s story. Ever since Bree mentioned this book I knew I was going to fall for these characters and their story!! It did not disappoint at all.
Isabella has always felt second to everything, especially when it came to her family. Her personality is honestly one of the things I absolutely love about her. She’s fierce and strong and never backs down. The way she carries her emotions so openly makes her stand out. She feels things strongly and that’s something I really connected with her on. With Giovanni, his character was intriguing to me. He honestly reminded me a lot of Alessandro from The Rocchetti Dynasty series. I LOVE the way he’s always there for his daughter and puts her above everything else. To everyone else he’s ruthless but with her he’s the best dad and someone that always brings comfort and love.
Of Violent Lineage is such a great introduction to the series and to Giovanni and Isabella’s story. It has moments that give you all the emotions. Bree Porter never fails to capture them all and write them so well. I literally couldn’t put this book down. I need the second book soon because after that ending I have to know what happens next!
Of Violent Lineage is the first book of The Vigliano Underworld and the beginning to Giovanni and Isabella’s story. Ever since Bree mentioned this book I knew I was going to fall for these characters and their story!! It did not disappoint at all.
Isabella has always felt second to everything, especially when it came to her family. Her personality is honestly one of the things I absolutely love about her. She’s fierce and strong and never backs down. The way she carries her emotions so openly makes her stand out. She feels things strongly and that’s something I really connected with her on. With Giovanni, his character was intriguing to me. He honestly reminded me a lot of Alessandro from The Rocchetti Dynasty series. I LOVE the way he’s always there for his daughter and puts her above everything else. To everyone else he’s ruthless but with her he’s the best dad and someone that always brings comfort and love.
Of Violent Lineage is such a great introduction to the series and to Giovanni and Isabella’s story. It has moments that give you all the emotions. Bree Porter never fails to capture them all and write them so well. I literally couldn’t put this book down. I need the second book soon because after that ending I have to know what happens next!
July 17, 2025
4⭑
This is my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. I loved everything about Isabella. She’s such a bad ass heroine and honestly I hope she kills her mum in the next book iykyk.
I absolutely LOVE the single dad trope and Giovanni as a dad was just sooooo cute. He’s such a grumpy mafia man but to then see him be so sweet towards his daughter.. ugh I can’t deal with it🥺😩.
I knew going into this book that it ended on a cliff hanger but omg!!!!!!! The way I need my hands on the next book NOWWWWW.
This is my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. I loved everything about Isabella. She’s such a bad ass heroine and honestly I hope she kills her mum in the next book iykyk.
I absolutely LOVE the single dad trope and Giovanni as a dad was just sooooo cute. He’s such a grumpy mafia man but to then see him be so sweet towards his daughter.. ugh I can’t deal with it🥺😩.
I knew going into this book that it ended on a cliff hanger but omg!!!!!!! The way I need my hands on the next book NOWWWWW.
September 21, 2021
Of Violent Lineage is the first book of the universe Vigliano Underworld, and we will know about the history of Isabella Lombardi and Giovanni Vigliano who have appeared in his the previous books.
This author is maturing her writing with each new book, and we can see, the story is getting more firmer and becoming more serious, and i as a big fan of this author i’m very proud, this book was an incredible read for me, i didn't think i would enjoy it so much because i’m not a revenge trope person, it's just a shame to be so small!
Isabella is a character with a strong personality, and from her first moments we can see that, she is very strong, and very intelligent, she is different from all the characters from Bree, and i have to confess that it took a long time for her conquer me, but in the end you can't not like her.
Giovanni... yes, this one captivated me a lot! as always i always go more towards the male characters LOL he's a character that's is so interesting to read, he's totally cool, and quiet, but he's sweet to his daughter, he has a dark past and i need and i want Bree to work more on this in the next book, because we can't understand him in this book.
I wish i could say about the two of them as a couple... but we don't see them acting like a couple, i think they have some exchanges but they're not 100% a couple, they exhale chemistry, that we can't deny.. the hot scenes made me hot but no we had more than two kisses throughout the book and we didn't have sex... that intrigued me, hopefully in the next book we can see a little more of their relationship, as a couple.
I couldn't not talk about her... Marzia Vigliano... can i already say she's my favorite character in the whole book? this kid is perfect in every way, she has all the energy and personality of Gio, and sometimes she even reminded me of Izzy, she has a strong personality but she is also sweet at the same time, i loved how Bree worked on her.. she's so smart, and i loved her passion for dinosaurs.
The book is very short, but i liked everything a lot... but i thought the ending was totally rushed, i couldn't capture the emotions from any side, and i didn't understand it very well, i was very confused... i hope the author works differently in the next book , i’m already anxious to seeing this family that captivated me so much.
This author is maturing her writing with each new book, and we can see, the story is getting more firmer and becoming more serious, and i as a big fan of this author i’m very proud, this book was an incredible read for me, i didn't think i would enjoy it so much because i’m not a revenge trope person, it's just a shame to be so small!
Isabella is a character with a strong personality, and from her first moments we can see that, she is very strong, and very intelligent, she is different from all the characters from Bree, and i have to confess that it took a long time for her conquer me, but in the end you can't not like her.
Giovanni... yes, this one captivated me a lot! as always i always go more towards the male characters LOL he's a character that's is so interesting to read, he's totally cool, and quiet, but he's sweet to his daughter, he has a dark past and i need and i want Bree to work more on this in the next book, because we can't understand him in this book.
I wish i could say about the two of them as a couple... but we don't see them acting like a couple, i think they have some exchanges but they're not 100% a couple, they exhale chemistry, that we can't deny.. the hot scenes made me hot but no we had more than two kisses throughout the book and we didn't have sex... that intrigued me, hopefully in the next book we can see a little more of their relationship, as a couple.
I couldn't not talk about her... Marzia Vigliano... can i already say she's my favorite character in the whole book? this kid is perfect in every way, she has all the energy and personality of Gio, and sometimes she even reminded me of Izzy, she has a strong personality but she is also sweet at the same time, i loved how Bree worked on her.. she's so smart, and i loved her passion for dinosaurs.
The book is very short, but i liked everything a lot... but i thought the ending was totally rushed, i couldn't capture the emotions from any side, and i didn't understand it very well, i was very confused... i hope the author works differently in the next book , i’m already anxious to seeing this family that captivated me so much.
April 14, 2023
Of Violent Lineage is a very interesting way to start a new series, with very intriguing characters. The protagonists are such an interesting duo and their story is as messy as their feelings and backstories in general; both Giovanni Vigliano and Isabella Lombardi are certainly very complexes characters that had had a lot to deal with already. That’s pretty clear and to be seen while reading it, and you kinda feel like it’s only getting worse throughout every page, and by the end? You just confirm it. Well, I just really hate cliffhangers and am very excited how their story follows. And I need to say I love Marzia Vigliano, she’s the cutest and sweetest and I love her relationship not only with her dad but also the bond she’d created with Isabella.
September 26, 2021
I like to summarize my reviews in 3 main thoughts so:
1. If I end up reading the 2nd book it will be solely and purely for the relationship between the 7yo kid and the heroine
2. My cereal box has more personality than Giovanni Vigliano and that's a fact.
3. Is it really a cliffhanger if one can see it coming from miles away? asking for a friend...
Just like in Kingpin's Foxglove and Empress of Poisons, the plot here promised more than it delivered. Isabella Lombardi has always been second in everything; daughter, wife, mother. Never enough for anyone, but now her moment to shine came from the hand of an arranged marriage with the enemy, Giovanni Vigliano, and the burden of being the one responsible for restoring power to her family. Now this sounds good, but I had two major problems here; First is the thing with time, as in that I don't know how much time passed from the beginning of the book to that end, and that conditioned the way in which I perceived the development of the relationship between the hero and the heroine.
The second thing was the development of the characters and the relationship itself. The romantic aspect was much more telling than doing, and that's why I don't understand the rush in the love confessions at the end of the story considering that this is a duet and there's more time to develop it properly. Add to that that they BARELY talked and spent time together during the development of the book, so I really don't understand where all these feelings are coming from... the romance was really lacking during the course of the story to try to evoke such angst in the last chapters. And then there's Giovanni Vigliano's personality... or lack thereof. From the beginning he was described as cold and impasive (kinda like Dante Cavallaro), only showing signs of being human when he was around his daughter Marzia, so my logical thinking was that yes, he was going to be a asshole to Isabella at first, to then warm up to the idea of her, developing feelings and taking their relationship to the next level, but nope. They did take their relationship to a physical level, but there were never any signs of feelings developing in between, that's why the ending surprised me a bit because it seemed to come out of nowhere. Also, we got POVs from him, but they didn't add anything to the story.
About Isabella, I liked her and her hard-to-anticipate personality. My only problem was the scene with her brother because throughout the book she's described going through a lot of emotions, not being able to hide any of them and, therefore, being someone VERY passionate, so it was quite dissonant the way she was able to betray him, giving him just a little thought after murdering him and then moving on with her life. Yeah, they weren't close, but anyway it was mentioned how he was the one who taught her how to dance and looked for monsters in her room at night so for me it was just an example that she can't be trusted.
My favorite part and the way I got to the end was Marzia and her relationship with Isabella. She was really cute and funny, and I loved to see how this relationship between stepdaughter and stepmother evolved so that goodbye scene was really sad for me and now I'm a bit heartbroken for both of them :(.
And the cliffhanger... disappointing. Maybe I'm too smart for my own good, or someone else's detective skills suck (JUST KIDDING!!! no offense), but it was obvious to me where this was heading so the reveal came as no surprise. Now I'm only intrigued to know how Isabella will take this news considering the way in which being the second Isabella shaped her life. Also, if her mother doesn't die in a painful way I'm throwing hands!
1. If I end up reading the 2nd book it will be solely and purely for the relationship between the 7yo kid and the heroine
2. My cereal box has more personality than Giovanni Vigliano and that's a fact.
3. Is it really a cliffhanger if one can see it coming from miles away? asking for a friend...
Just like in Kingpin's Foxglove and Empress of Poisons, the plot here promised more than it delivered. Isabella Lombardi has always been second in everything; daughter, wife, mother. Never enough for anyone, but now her moment to shine came from the hand of an arranged marriage with the enemy, Giovanni Vigliano, and the burden of being the one responsible for restoring power to her family. Now this sounds good, but I had two major problems here; First is the thing with time, as in that I don't know how much time passed from the beginning of the book to that end, and that conditioned the way in which I perceived the development of the relationship between the hero and the heroine.
The second thing was the development of the characters and the relationship itself. The romantic aspect was much more telling than doing, and that's why I don't understand the rush in the love confessions at the end of the story considering that this is a duet and there's more time to develop it properly. Add to that that they BARELY talked and spent time together during the development of the book, so I really don't understand where all these feelings are coming from... the romance was really lacking during the course of the story to try to evoke such angst in the last chapters. And then there's Giovanni Vigliano's personality... or lack thereof. From the beginning he was described as cold and impasive (kinda like Dante Cavallaro), only showing signs of being human when he was around his daughter Marzia, so my logical thinking was that yes, he was going to be a asshole to Isabella at first, to then warm up to the idea of her, developing feelings and taking their relationship to the next level, but nope. They did take their relationship to a physical level, but there were never any signs of feelings developing in between, that's why the ending surprised me a bit because it seemed to come out of nowhere. Also, we got POVs from him, but they didn't add anything to the story.
About Isabella, I liked her and her hard-to-anticipate personality. My only problem was the scene with her brother because throughout the book she's described going through a lot of emotions, not being able to hide any of them and, therefore, being someone VERY passionate, so it was quite dissonant the way she was able to betray him, giving him just a little thought after murdering him and then moving on with her life. Yeah, they weren't close, but anyway it was mentioned how he was the one who taught her how to dance and looked for monsters in her room at night so for me it was just an example that she can't be trusted.
My favorite part and the way I got to the end was Marzia and her relationship with Isabella. She was really cute and funny, and I loved to see how this relationship between stepdaughter and stepmother evolved so that goodbye scene was really sad for me and now I'm a bit heartbroken for both of them :(.
And the cliffhanger... disappointing. Maybe I'm too smart for my own good, or someone else's detective skills suck (JUST KIDDING!!! no offense), but it was obvious to me where this was heading so the reveal came as no surprise. Now I'm only intrigued to know how Isabella will take this news considering the way in which being the second Isabella shaped her life. Also, if her mother doesn't die in a painful way I'm throwing hands!
September 17, 2021
I was deeply obssessed with Giovanni even before we see him. I don't know why, because all we knew about him was that he was one of lorenzo's bastards sons. We've met his twin very briefly in TRQ and in KF my Giovanni entered the scene. I annoyed Bree so so much asking info for them that the poor girl had to write the book just to get rid of me.
The first time we've met Isabella was at Don Piergiorgio's funeral in TRQ. Sophia commented on her beauty, feeling a little jealous.
As we already knew from the tarkhanov series, don lombardi, isabella's father, lost his throne to Giovanni Vigliano and therefore a marriage of convenience was arranged. Giovanni, by being illegitimate, feared that the conservative Cosa Nostra wouldn't show him respect and the only remedy was to marry someone from the lombardi family. And who better than Vitale's daughter Isabella? Left without her family, with only one ally, isabella fights to survive and to get revenge on the man who ruined her family and killed many people she hold dear. Getting revenge would also help her getting her life dream come true.
Of Violent Lineage is the perfect introduction to the new york italian mafia. We meet new characters, each with their stories. Either lucrezia mourning her husband, vincent dealing with guilt and desperate for the woman he loves or angelo trying to protect the person he loves the most by shaking hands with the enemy, they all paint a tableau vivant of italian mafia. None more than the man himself, Giovanni Vigliano. He became one of my favorite heroes. His strength, his no-nonsense approach, his hotness and yes his blue eyes ( i have a weakness for blue eyes men) make him a major babe. But most of all, i think is his maturity. I have no patience for cliche heroes, which are all the same, acting recklessly and immature but being overrated. With Bree, the fact that her characters are originals is a fact. Isabella is also a proof of that. She shares Sophia's ambition and elena's anger. But she is also very different from them, she doesn't have sophia's manipulative ways nor elena's sarcasm. She is devoted to her family, dying to prove her worth, something neither sophia nor elena share. Isabella and Giovanni's love life starts slowly. You can feel their chemistry from the start but they are both unwilling to give in to the fire they awaken in each other. One of the things i love most about her is that she didn't acted like a delicate flower afraid of her shadow around him. She was very demanding from the start and happy to let him know his shortcomings ( that vase can attest to that). And their scenes were hot. I mean hot, baby. And his jealousy🥵🥵🥵.
But he is not the only one who inspires new feelings in isa's heart. There is also marzia, giovanni's daughter. Her relationship with her stepmother evolves so beautifully, that baby needed a mother so much. Shy at first, but later on their closeness is so sweet.
I don't know how i will survive till the second book arrives because that cliffhanger....
I loved this book so so much. It surpassed my expectations and it made me appreciate Bree even more. She really gets better with every book she writes.
I recieved an ARC for an honest review. Of Violent Lineage is the first book in the Vigliano Underworld series and can be read as a standalone.
The first time we've met Isabella was at Don Piergiorgio's funeral in TRQ. Sophia commented on her beauty, feeling a little jealous.
As we already knew from the tarkhanov series, don lombardi, isabella's father, lost his throne to Giovanni Vigliano and therefore a marriage of convenience was arranged. Giovanni, by being illegitimate, feared that the conservative Cosa Nostra wouldn't show him respect and the only remedy was to marry someone from the lombardi family. And who better than Vitale's daughter Isabella? Left without her family, with only one ally, isabella fights to survive and to get revenge on the man who ruined her family and killed many people she hold dear. Getting revenge would also help her getting her life dream come true.
Of Violent Lineage is the perfect introduction to the new york italian mafia. We meet new characters, each with their stories. Either lucrezia mourning her husband, vincent dealing with guilt and desperate for the woman he loves or angelo trying to protect the person he loves the most by shaking hands with the enemy, they all paint a tableau vivant of italian mafia. None more than the man himself, Giovanni Vigliano. He became one of my favorite heroes. His strength, his no-nonsense approach, his hotness and yes his blue eyes ( i have a weakness for blue eyes men) make him a major babe. But most of all, i think is his maturity. I have no patience for cliche heroes, which are all the same, acting recklessly and immature but being overrated. With Bree, the fact that her characters are originals is a fact. Isabella is also a proof of that. She shares Sophia's ambition and elena's anger. But she is also very different from them, she doesn't have sophia's manipulative ways nor elena's sarcasm. She is devoted to her family, dying to prove her worth, something neither sophia nor elena share. Isabella and Giovanni's love life starts slowly. You can feel their chemistry from the start but they are both unwilling to give in to the fire they awaken in each other. One of the things i love most about her is that she didn't acted like a delicate flower afraid of her shadow around him. She was very demanding from the start and happy to let him know his shortcomings ( that vase can attest to that). And their scenes were hot. I mean hot, baby. And his jealousy🥵🥵🥵.
But he is not the only one who inspires new feelings in isa's heart. There is also marzia, giovanni's daughter. Her relationship with her stepmother evolves so beautifully, that baby needed a mother so much. Shy at first, but later on their closeness is so sweet.
I don't know how i will survive till the second book arrives because that cliffhanger....
I loved this book so so much. It surpassed my expectations and it made me appreciate Bree even more. She really gets better with every book she writes.
I recieved an ARC for an honest review. Of Violent Lineage is the first book in the Vigliano Underworld series and can be read as a standalone.
September 21, 2021
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: adult mafia romance, age gap, arranged marriage, single dad, cold hero/sassy heroine
💭
This was such a pleasant read!! As always, Bree has a way to grab my attention, and this was no exception.
It all starts when Giovanni Vigiliano wins the Lombardi territory and forces Isabella's parents to surrender. But as expected, they don't accept their lose and they decide to run away. Before leaving, Isabella's mom forces her to spy on Giovanni to help them regain their territories and power.
So when Isabella becomes Giovanni's second wife, she starts her job. At first it's easy to spy on him, but slowly she gets attached to him and his daughter.
I freaking adore Isabella, definitely Bree's best character to date!!! I love how strong, proud and smart she is. She might be a little noisy sometimes, but to me she is adorable and deserves all the love.
As for Giovanni, he is too cold and quite for my taste, and if it wasn't for his POV, I wouldn't have figured him out. I wish he was a bit more expressive towards Izzy, but well I hope on book two we see him open up to his feelings.
Now to me the star of the story is little Marzia!! She has quite a strong personality and I love how slowly she grow attached to Izzy. Their scenes are freaking adorable and I'm praying for more scenes of them on book two 🥺
The only thing I didn't like were the last two chapters. The book is amazing, but then we get to the last two chapters and wtf? I'm confused af because nothing made sense to me, but I hope Bree explains everything on the next book.
Anyway, I think slowly Bree's writting keeps getting better and her stories more solid, which makes me so happy for her. If you like any of the tropes mentioned above, make sure to grab the book next week!! You will NOT regret it.
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: adult mafia romance, age gap, arranged marriage, single dad, cold hero/sassy heroine
💭
This was such a pleasant read!! As always, Bree has a way to grab my attention, and this was no exception.
It all starts when Giovanni Vigiliano wins the Lombardi territory and forces Isabella's parents to surrender. But as expected, they don't accept their lose and they decide to run away. Before leaving, Isabella's mom forces her to spy on Giovanni to help them regain their territories and power.
So when Isabella becomes Giovanni's second wife, she starts her job. At first it's easy to spy on him, but slowly she gets attached to him and his daughter.
I freaking adore Isabella, definitely Bree's best character to date!!! I love how strong, proud and smart she is. She might be a little noisy sometimes, but to me she is adorable and deserves all the love.
As for Giovanni, he is too cold and quite for my taste, and if it wasn't for his POV, I wouldn't have figured him out. I wish he was a bit more expressive towards Izzy, but well I hope on book two we see him open up to his feelings.
Now to me the star of the story is little Marzia!! She has quite a strong personality and I love how slowly she grow attached to Izzy. Their scenes are freaking adorable and I'm praying for more scenes of them on book two 🥺
The only thing I didn't like were the last two chapters. The book is amazing, but then we get to the last two chapters and wtf? I'm confused af because nothing made sense to me, but I hope Bree explains everything on the next book.
Anyway, I think slowly Bree's writting keeps getting better and her stories more solid, which makes me so happy for her. If you like any of the tropes mentioned above, make sure to grab the book next week!! You will NOT regret it.
September 20, 2021
*ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for a honest review
Since Bree announced Of Violent Lineage I was very excited to read and finally meet Isabella and Giovanni, and when I learned that would have betrayal trope I was even more excited. The book reads fluidly, I read it in a short time because the events unfolded quickly and accurately.
Isabella was a character that I didn't connect with at first maybe because I imagined her in a different way, but by the end of the book she had conquered me and I hope that in the second book she has even more development. She is a woman who only wants to be loved and chosen as first choice, a fact that makes her much more inclined to understand her. And I loved how she expressed the feelings and thoughts in her paintings.
Giovanni has won me over from the beginning, maybe I have a soft spot for men who have a dark past and don't open up easily. I love that he is indifferent to others, but every night he tells a bedtime story to Marzia, I loved their healthy father-daughter relationship. I wish he had had more development on this book and I hope that in the next one some questions about his past can be answered.
Marzia my love, oh how I love this girl! She was light in this book, no other words to describe, I loved her from the first moment, Bree gave her such an amazing personality that at the age of 7 she enchanted me with her intelligence, kindness and sense of the world.
I really missed Izzygio scenes as a couple, we had very few parts of them even interacting. However, you can see that they have chemistry and the seed of love was planted for the next book to work on it, I loved their hots even though there wasn't a real sex scene.
The issue in the book was the betrayal trope, I thought that part happened very quickly, like him finding out, in this case the ending and maybe the next book will bring that part back. A wish for the next book is that it’s bigger and that they have a development as a couple and as people, and that some questions are answered and worked on. I know Bree will give Izzygio the best outcome!
I can't wait for Leodiana, they were mentioned and my god I already feel that their book will be very good! I'm too anxious already!
September 29, 2021
THAT MF ENDING???? OMFG
September 21, 2021
Of Violent Lineage was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and it definitely did not disappoint .
Everything from how the characters were built such as Isabella's mischievous mind ,artistic spirit and deeply loving heart to Giovanni's External apathy and indifference to his ability to always prioritize and protect the one's he dearly cares about (especially his daughter),to of course the star of the show herself Miss Martzia who not only stole my heart but Isabella's as well managing to turn the sarcastic woman -who was never shown love by her own mother- take onto and execute the role of a mother ,friend and companion To Giovanni's daughter exceptionally and getting shown unconditional love for the first time in her life in return.
Additionally, the ever lasting sexual tension along with the feelings of possessiveness and jealousy the two main characters shared regarding each other worked as a great distraction from the secrets lurking between them and the lingering betrayal and plot twists that were to follow
Ending this review with a sense of and excitement and fear of what's to follow in the second installment and more importantly anticipation to see Giovanni ,Isabellla and little Martzia put back the pieces of their own little family
Everything from how the characters were built such as Isabella's mischievous mind ,artistic spirit and deeply loving heart to Giovanni's External apathy and indifference to his ability to always prioritize and protect the one's he dearly cares about (especially his daughter),to of course the star of the show herself Miss Martzia who not only stole my heart but Isabella's as well managing to turn the sarcastic woman -who was never shown love by her own mother- take onto and execute the role of a mother ,friend and companion To Giovanni's daughter exceptionally and getting shown unconditional love for the first time in her life in return.
Additionally, the ever lasting sexual tension along with the feelings of possessiveness and jealousy the two main characters shared regarding each other worked as a great distraction from the secrets lurking between them and the lingering betrayal and plot twists that were to follow
Ending this review with a sense of and excitement and fear of what's to follow in the second installment and more importantly anticipation to see Giovanni ,Isabellla and little Martzia put back the pieces of their own little family
September 25, 2021
The book wasn’t completely bad however it was quite a fast pace for first book of the trilogy. The plot and the cliffhanger is what I am looking forward to, not so much the characters. Still shocked that Bree Porter decided to show the character in love ( completely ) so quickly. It doesn’t matter sense.🤷🏽♀️
November 7, 2025
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4.25/5)
If loyalty is a weapon, then love is the trigger — and this story pulled it without mercy.
This book didn’t just enter my reading life — it barged in like a well-dressed mafia boss with a gun in one hand and trauma in the other. I went in expecting some spice, some danger, some good ol’ mafia chaos — but what I received was political warfare layered with forbidden devotion. I was breathless, not because of steamy scenes, but because of the consuming tension between Giovanni and Isabella. Even knowing a cliffhanger was coming did not prepare me. I am simultaneously devastated and impressed.
---
Brief Summary
Isabella Lombardini enters a marriage with Giovanni Vigliano — not for love, but as a pawn in her parents’ strategic game. She is raised inside manipulation so thick you’d need a chainsaw to cut through it. Giovanni, the ruthless and calculating Capo, has trust issues that are practically part of his bloodstream. What unfolds is a marriage filled with power, deception, whispered conspiracies, and brutal consequences — all while Mahanattan’s mafia families watch, hungry for blood or victory.
---
Atmosphere, Tone & Setting
The atmosphere is pure tactical elegance. Bree Porter paints Mahanattan’s underworld with tension you can taste — smoky bars, luxurious estates, meetings that feel like countdowns to death. The tone is sharp, political, and emotionally suffocating in the best way. Every chapter is a reminder: no one is safe, especially not your heart.
---
Characters
Giovanni Vigliano is perfectly written:
Cold. Strategic. Brutal. Yet soft as silk for the few he loves — particularly his daughter, Marzia. His duality? Exquisite.
Isabella Lombardini is a brilliantly complex protagonist — smart, fierce, yet tragically tied to the people who break her most. Her strength doesn’t roar… it bleeds.
Supporting characters shine too — especially Marzia. The scenes of Giovanni being a gentle father? Instant serotonin.
Meanwhile, Isabella's parents? Certified villains with PhDs in Psychological Warfare.
---
Crictical Analysis
No actual full-on spice yet, but my god — the tension could fuel the national power grid.
A hand touch? A breath too close? I was malfunctioning. The slowest burn of all slow burns — and somehow, the absence of explicit intimacy made their connection feel more forbidden, more dangerous, and infinitely more addictive.
♦ Pacing & Craft Critique
While the book is a masterpiece of strategy and character design, there were moments where pacing stumbled:
— Some emotional beats ended too quickly
— A few scene transitions felt rushed
— Certain high-impact moments needed more breathing room
Particularly the healing scenes after Giovanni’s injury — where deeper vulnerability could’ve blossomed even more. Minor flaws, but visible.
♦ Plot & Political Depth
This book takes mafia politics seriously.
No cartoon villains. No “mafia, but make it cute.”
Every decision has consequence. Every alliance is a threat. And that constant escalation of stakes? Immaculate. The final twist — Isabella saving Giovanni — was such poetic irony that I had to close the book and stare into the void for a minute.
♦ The Ending (my heart is not okay)
The cliffhanger is criminal and should be trialled at The Hague.
But… it also cements this book’s brilliance.
Isabella being manipulated by those who should protect her — again — is painful, but so psychologically accurate to her trauma. It hurt. And that means it worked.
---
Final Verdict
A Violent Lineage is a proper mafia romance — vicious politics, layered characters, passion that simmers like a loaded gun, and a story that respects its darkness. If you want a love story dipped in danger instead of sugar — you will devour this.
✔ Mafia done right
✔ Emotional intelligence
✔ Unforgettable tension
✘ Cliffhanger that will emotionally assassinate you
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely.
Will I recover?
Absolutely not.
If loyalty is a weapon, then love is the trigger — and this story pulled it without mercy.
This book didn’t just enter my reading life — it barged in like a well-dressed mafia boss with a gun in one hand and trauma in the other. I went in expecting some spice, some danger, some good ol’ mafia chaos — but what I received was political warfare layered with forbidden devotion. I was breathless, not because of steamy scenes, but because of the consuming tension between Giovanni and Isabella. Even knowing a cliffhanger was coming did not prepare me. I am simultaneously devastated and impressed.
---
Brief Summary
Isabella Lombardini enters a marriage with Giovanni Vigliano — not for love, but as a pawn in her parents’ strategic game. She is raised inside manipulation so thick you’d need a chainsaw to cut through it. Giovanni, the ruthless and calculating Capo, has trust issues that are practically part of his bloodstream. What unfolds is a marriage filled with power, deception, whispered conspiracies, and brutal consequences — all while Mahanattan’s mafia families watch, hungry for blood or victory.
---
Atmosphere, Tone & Setting
The atmosphere is pure tactical elegance. Bree Porter paints Mahanattan’s underworld with tension you can taste — smoky bars, luxurious estates, meetings that feel like countdowns to death. The tone is sharp, political, and emotionally suffocating in the best way. Every chapter is a reminder: no one is safe, especially not your heart.
---
Characters
Giovanni Vigliano is perfectly written:
Cold. Strategic. Brutal. Yet soft as silk for the few he loves — particularly his daughter, Marzia. His duality? Exquisite.
Isabella Lombardini is a brilliantly complex protagonist — smart, fierce, yet tragically tied to the people who break her most. Her strength doesn’t roar… it bleeds.
Supporting characters shine too — especially Marzia. The scenes of Giovanni being a gentle father? Instant serotonin.
Meanwhile, Isabella's parents? Certified villains with PhDs in Psychological Warfare.
---
Crictical Analysis
No actual full-on spice yet, but my god — the tension could fuel the national power grid.
A hand touch? A breath too close? I was malfunctioning. The slowest burn of all slow burns — and somehow, the absence of explicit intimacy made their connection feel more forbidden, more dangerous, and infinitely more addictive.
♦ Pacing & Craft Critique
While the book is a masterpiece of strategy and character design, there were moments where pacing stumbled:
— Some emotional beats ended too quickly
— A few scene transitions felt rushed
— Certain high-impact moments needed more breathing room
Particularly the healing scenes after Giovanni’s injury — where deeper vulnerability could’ve blossomed even more. Minor flaws, but visible.
♦ Plot & Political Depth
This book takes mafia politics seriously.
No cartoon villains. No “mafia, but make it cute.”
Every decision has consequence. Every alliance is a threat. And that constant escalation of stakes? Immaculate. The final twist — Isabella saving Giovanni — was such poetic irony that I had to close the book and stare into the void for a minute.
♦ The Ending (my heart is not okay)
The cliffhanger is criminal and should be trialled at The Hague.
But… it also cements this book’s brilliance.
Isabella being manipulated by those who should protect her — again — is painful, but so psychologically accurate to her trauma. It hurt. And that means it worked.
---
Final Verdict
A Violent Lineage is a proper mafia romance — vicious politics, layered characters, passion that simmers like a loaded gun, and a story that respects its darkness. If you want a love story dipped in danger instead of sugar — you will devour this.
✔ Mafia done right
✔ Emotional intelligence
✔ Unforgettable tension
✘ Cliffhanger that will emotionally assassinate you
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely.
Will I recover?
Absolutely not.
September 20, 2021
Honestly, I'm still trying to comprehend what just happened. I absolutely devoured this book. I wish I hadn't because I already miss Isabella and Giovanni and Marzia.
Firstly, Giovanni and Isabella's chemistry was amazing. Giovanni was honestly just so intense that I was immediately drawn to him. Once I hit 33% (yes, I have that percentage marked in my brain because i took a break once I read those lines) I was completely gone for Gio.
I was a bit confused by Isabella's character at first, but once i read more and understood more about her character, I began to realise why she was the way she was. Only at one point in this book did I feel so enraged by her, but at the same time I understood why she did what she did. Isabella seeks validation and acceptance from the one person who will never give it to her; her mother.
Giovanni and Isabella are like a match made in heaven. Not only is their relationship so intense that I wanted to scream at them to just kiss each other, but their individual relationships with Marzia prove even more how much they're meant for each other.
Giovanni is a perfect father. He never slacks off on his daughter, he gives her whatever she wants and treats her like a princess. Isabella is the exact other half of a parent that Marzia needs. Both of then are so attentive and protective of Marzia that I think if someone even woke her up from a nap they'd be pissed.
And here's the one thing that just made OVL that much more amazing for me; their relationship wasn't based on sex or sexual tension. Yes, they lusted after one another (as they should) but their want for one another didn't grow from that. Building the tension between couples without making sex heavily involved is something a lot of books fail at but OVL is definitely not one of those.
To end this off before I spoil the entire book; BREE, I NEED THE SECOND BOOK RIGHT NOW PLEASE AND THANK YOU I WANT ISABELLA, GIOVANNI AND MARZIA BACK
-
idek what to say i just want isabella, giovanni and marzia back
-
rtc
Firstly, Giovanni and Isabella's chemistry was amazing. Giovanni was honestly just so intense that I was immediately drawn to him. Once I hit 33% (yes, I have that percentage marked in my brain because i took a break once I read those lines) I was completely gone for Gio.
I was a bit confused by Isabella's character at first, but once i read more and understood more about her character, I began to realise why she was the way she was. Only at one point in this book did I feel so enraged by her, but at the same time I understood why she did what she did. Isabella seeks validation and acceptance from the one person who will never give it to her; her mother.
Giovanni and Isabella are like a match made in heaven. Not only is their relationship so intense that I wanted to scream at them to just kiss each other, but their individual relationships with Marzia prove even more how much they're meant for each other.
Giovanni is a perfect father. He never slacks off on his daughter, he gives her whatever she wants and treats her like a princess. Isabella is the exact other half of a parent that Marzia needs. Both of then are so attentive and protective of Marzia that I think if someone even woke her up from a nap they'd be pissed.
And here's the one thing that just made OVL that much more amazing for me; their relationship wasn't based on sex or sexual tension. Yes, they lusted after one another (as they should) but their want for one another didn't grow from that. Building the tension between couples without making sex heavily involved is something a lot of books fail at but OVL is definitely not one of those.
To end this off before I spoil the entire book; BREE, I NEED THE SECOND BOOK RIGHT NOW PLEASE AND THANK YOU I WANT ISABELLA, GIOVANNI AND MARZIA BACK
-
idek what to say i just want isabella, giovanni and marzia back
-
rtc
September 21, 2021
4,5 violent stars
I am in love with this book. IN LOVE, I tell you.
Isabella and Giovanni 's story is hands down one of my favourites this year. I literally couldn't stop reading from the very first chapter. Isabella's personality is so refreshing. She's actually become one of my faves heroines. Oh and little Marzia... She warmed my heart and I felt so much love for her. The dynamic between Giovanni/Marzia and Isabella is incredibly fantastic and captivating. I just love them all so much.
Overall, Of Violent Lineage is a single dad, arranged marriage, age gap, mafia romance, filled with passion, emotion and unexpected twists and turns. Isabella is one sassy heroine and Giovanni a cold hero which makes their story even more addictive in my opinion.
Why not five stars if you liked it that much? you may ask. Well I have to say the pace of the story was a bit too fast for my liking and some scenes were so rushed it made my head spin, hence the 4,5 star review.
With that being said, I highly recommend this book.
“He is the enemy, the bastard usurper. He is wearing a crown that does not belong to him. Steal it back, Isabella.”
I am in love with this book. IN LOVE, I tell you.
Isabella and Giovanni 's story is hands down one of my favourites this year. I literally couldn't stop reading from the very first chapter. Isabella's personality is so refreshing. She's actually become one of my faves heroines. Oh and little Marzia... She warmed my heart and I felt so much love for her. The dynamic between Giovanni/Marzia and Isabella is incredibly fantastic and captivating. I just love them all so much.
“Keep your heart to yourself, Isabella. He will destroy it.”
Overall, Of Violent Lineage is a single dad, arranged marriage, age gap, mafia romance, filled with passion, emotion and unexpected twists and turns. Isabella is one sassy heroine and Giovanni a cold hero which makes their story even more addictive in my opinion.
Why not five stars if you liked it that much? you may ask. Well I have to say the pace of the story was a bit too fast for my liking and some scenes were so rushed it made my head spin, hence the 4,5 star review.
With that being said, I highly recommend this book.
September 26, 2021
aaAaaAAAHHHHHH ms porter sure does know how to make me kick, scream and wail at the end of her books with my NEED for more!!!!
possibly more detailed rtc, but another fabulous intro into a detailed, rich mafia world, with a refreshingly independent and capable heroine and a wonderfully psychotic Don as a husband. also, a daughter who just about steals your heart from the beginning. fast paced, fun, just the right amount of ruthlessness sprinkled in... and there's nothing better than a character realizing they actually have the ability to *have* feelings...through falling for the other one. something about those psychopathic characters... they're just mwah!
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
possibly more detailed rtc, but another fabulous intro into a detailed, rich mafia world, with a refreshingly independent and capable heroine and a wonderfully psychotic Don as a husband. also, a daughter who just about steals your heart from the beginning. fast paced, fun, just the right amount of ruthlessness sprinkled in... and there's nothing better than a character realizing they actually have the ability to *have* feelings...through falling for the other one. something about those psychopathic characters... they're just mwah!
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
October 2, 2021
This was incredible
October 3, 2023
ELES SÃO A MINHA MAIS NOVA FAMÍLIA!!!!
Juro, não consigo nem descrever o quanto que eu amei esse livro! A Isabella e o Giovanni são apaixonantes e eu tô devastada que não tenha o segundo livro já lançado. BREE PORTER VOCÊ ME PAGA.
Amei conhecer os dois, ver a diferença de personalidade entre eles: onde a Isabella é extremamente emocional, o Giovanni consegue controlar bem suas emoções, quase não sentí-las. E é lindo de ver ele começando a sentir por ela, sendo que antes só a Marzia era capaz de fazer ele sentir.
As cenas deles com a Marzia, inclusive aqueceram meu coração. ELES SÃO A MINHA FAMÍLIAAAAA. Juro, cada cena com um toque familiar me deixava sorrindo boba e eu amei ver a Isabella se introduzindo na família, se aproximando da Marzia até que elas ficaram realmente com um relacionamento de mãe e filha. É a coisa mais linda do mundo!!!
Esse final do livro despedaçou meu coração, meu deus, eu só queria minha família feliz e o que que eu recebo? Dor atrás de dor. Não terei paz até o segundo livro lançar.
Enfim, amei muito toda a experiência do livro, amei os personagens, a história, TUDO. Com certeza entraram na minha lista de favs. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
P.S.: foi meu primeiro livro lido completamente em inglês, tô muito feliz que consegui fazer isso!!!
Juro, não consigo nem descrever o quanto que eu amei esse livro! A Isabella e o Giovanni são apaixonantes e eu tô devastada que não tenha o segundo livro já lançado. BREE PORTER VOCÊ ME PAGA.
Amei conhecer os dois, ver a diferença de personalidade entre eles: onde a Isabella é extremamente emocional, o Giovanni consegue controlar bem suas emoções, quase não sentí-las. E é lindo de ver ele começando a sentir por ela, sendo que antes só a Marzia era capaz de fazer ele sentir.
As cenas deles com a Marzia, inclusive aqueceram meu coração. ELES SÃO A MINHA FAMÍLIAAAAA. Juro, cada cena com um toque familiar me deixava sorrindo boba e eu amei ver a Isabella se introduzindo na família, se aproximando da Marzia até que elas ficaram realmente com um relacionamento de mãe e filha. É a coisa mais linda do mundo!!!
Esse final do livro despedaçou meu coração, meu deus, eu só queria minha família feliz e o que que eu recebo? Dor atrás de dor. Não terei paz até o segundo livro lançar.
Enfim, amei muito toda a experiência do livro, amei os personagens, a história, TUDO. Com certeza entraram na minha lista de favs. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
P.S.: foi meu primeiro livro lido completamente em inglês, tô muito feliz que consegui fazer isso!!!
September 25, 2021
rtc...
3.5
3.5
September 21, 2021
In a world where violence is king and criminals can either be dons and capos, the Vigliano Underworld is born. A world where violence, war, and crime has ran deep for generations, and the current and future generations can be identified as “of Violent Lineage”. This is the world that birthed Isabella and Giovanni and led to their love story.
It’s not your typical love story, but one which started violently (i.e. the fall of the Lombardi famiglia) and an arranged marriage. Isabella isn’t the typical Mafia princess. She wasn’t spoiled nor properly loved. She was the rebellious mafia princess. Why? She was always known to be second best at everything – not the original. When her sister, the original Isabella, passed away, her parents birthed he as the replacement of her dead sister. Unfortunately for Isabella, her parents would always compare her to the elder and most beloved sister. They never saw her as an individual but a replacement. A broken replacement according to her mother.
After the fall of the Lombardi famiglia, she was given the opportunity to save her family by marrying the new Don of the New Vigliano Famiglia.
Her mom said, “The fate of the Lombardi’s rides on your shoulders, darling.”
This sweet word, a term of endearment, such as “darling” was never spoken to her by her mom. Isabella was never seen as perfect nor needed. Now, she is being introduced to emotions, which she never received growing up. Now, she was needed, wanted, and most of all “perfect” in the eyes of her mother. So, when she was given this opportunity, she went in whole heartedly. She really wanted to be the savior and the perfect daughter, finally. She will become the new Lombardi spy to help bring down the Vigliano famiglia. She had all these emotions deep inside of her until she met, Giovanni.
In many ways, Giovanni and Isabella were similar as he too was stationed in second place. Due to his mother being a mistress, her kids will never be known as part of the family but bastards, illegitimate, unlike the children who were born of his wife, legitimate. Therefore, always second. The rejection of his father led him and his siblings to have a miserable life. Since he wasn’t able to be a part of his father’s family nor have any standing in his famiglia, Giovanni ventured out on his own path to make himself known and legitimate by taking over the Lombardi Famiglia. While Isabella was coming to terms with the idea of helping her family bring down the new Don, Giovanni was finalizing his stronghold over the Lombardi’s and marrying Isabella would just cement his conquest and allow his ascension as being the new Don. In his mind, Isabella was merely a tool to help him get what he wanted – the destruction of the Lombardi’s and his rise to the throne as the new Don.
What he didn’t expect was the impact that Isabella would have on his life personally. What Isabella didn’t expect was how deep she would fall in love with Giovanni and his daughter (The scenes which I truly loved was the connection between Isabella and Giovanni’s daughter, Marzia). New connections were gradually made and a new family was born just as a new famiglia was established.
Of Violent Lineage gives everything from childhood issues, mafia dynamics, to the forming of a love story. Even though the two characters were brought up differently, they were similar in many ways. Their journey will play out in this story, but how will it end? Both Giovanni and Isabella went into this marriage with different agendas, one being a spy and the other cementing his power over this new territory. How will their story unfold? Will Isabella be able to spy on Giovanni and overthrow his new empire? Will he able to trust her fully? Will Isabella end up choosing Giovanni and Marzia over becoming the perfect daughter? Will either one of them achieve their goals? Or would it end in disappointment and disaster?
Go grab yourself a copy. You will not be disappointed. Please note - the ending is a cliffhanger! A really good cliffhanger! I’m already wishing, that I had a copy of Part 2 in my hands.
Side Note: One thing that I really love about these series is how powerful the female characters are in them. They’re not the typical spoiled princesses – they have character and power!
***I was provided an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion***
Of Violent Lineage
It’s not your typical love story, but one which started violently (i.e. the fall of the Lombardi famiglia) and an arranged marriage. Isabella isn’t the typical Mafia princess. She wasn’t spoiled nor properly loved. She was the rebellious mafia princess. Why? She was always known to be second best at everything – not the original. When her sister, the original Isabella, passed away, her parents birthed he as the replacement of her dead sister. Unfortunately for Isabella, her parents would always compare her to the elder and most beloved sister. They never saw her as an individual but a replacement. A broken replacement according to her mother.
After the fall of the Lombardi famiglia, she was given the opportunity to save her family by marrying the new Don of the New Vigliano Famiglia.
Her mom said, “The fate of the Lombardi’s rides on your shoulders, darling.”
This sweet word, a term of endearment, such as “darling” was never spoken to her by her mom. Isabella was never seen as perfect nor needed. Now, she is being introduced to emotions, which she never received growing up. Now, she was needed, wanted, and most of all “perfect” in the eyes of her mother. So, when she was given this opportunity, she went in whole heartedly. She really wanted to be the savior and the perfect daughter, finally. She will become the new Lombardi spy to help bring down the Vigliano famiglia. She had all these emotions deep inside of her until she met, Giovanni.
In many ways, Giovanni and Isabella were similar as he too was stationed in second place. Due to his mother being a mistress, her kids will never be known as part of the family but bastards, illegitimate, unlike the children who were born of his wife, legitimate. Therefore, always second. The rejection of his father led him and his siblings to have a miserable life. Since he wasn’t able to be a part of his father’s family nor have any standing in his famiglia, Giovanni ventured out on his own path to make himself known and legitimate by taking over the Lombardi Famiglia. While Isabella was coming to terms with the idea of helping her family bring down the new Don, Giovanni was finalizing his stronghold over the Lombardi’s and marrying Isabella would just cement his conquest and allow his ascension as being the new Don. In his mind, Isabella was merely a tool to help him get what he wanted – the destruction of the Lombardi’s and his rise to the throne as the new Don.
What he didn’t expect was the impact that Isabella would have on his life personally. What Isabella didn’t expect was how deep she would fall in love with Giovanni and his daughter (The scenes which I truly loved was the connection between Isabella and Giovanni’s daughter, Marzia). New connections were gradually made and a new family was born just as a new famiglia was established.
Of Violent Lineage gives everything from childhood issues, mafia dynamics, to the forming of a love story. Even though the two characters were brought up differently, they were similar in many ways. Their journey will play out in this story, but how will it end? Both Giovanni and Isabella went into this marriage with different agendas, one being a spy and the other cementing his power over this new territory. How will their story unfold? Will Isabella be able to spy on Giovanni and overthrow his new empire? Will he able to trust her fully? Will Isabella end up choosing Giovanni and Marzia over becoming the perfect daughter? Will either one of them achieve their goals? Or would it end in disappointment and disaster?
Go grab yourself a copy. You will not be disappointed. Please note - the ending is a cliffhanger! A really good cliffhanger! I’m already wishing, that I had a copy of Part 2 in my hands.
Side Note: One thing that I really love about these series is how powerful the female characters are in them. They’re not the typical spoiled princesses – they have character and power!
***I was provided an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion***
Of Violent Lineage
7-tbr-ooit
September 27, 2021Dayam... Bree Porter, FB 27-09-2021:
Going On A Break (For An Unknown Amount of Time); I won’t be publishing for the rest of the year.
So it will be a while, if ever, before this series is finished.
Going On A Break (For An Unknown Amount of Time); I won’t be publishing for the rest of the year.
So it will be a while, if ever, before this series is finished.
September 21, 2021
*ARC received for an honest review*
Of Violent Lineage is book 1 in The Vigliano Underworld series. I was so excited to read this book. And I wasn't disappointed.
Bree Porter has easily become one of my favourite author in the past year. The last series I read the of her was such a serve. And it made me happy to be back in her mafia world.
OVL started of with Giovanni Vigliano, the Don of Vigliano family conquered the Lombardis, one of the old Italian crime family. In order to severe the bond between two families, Giovanni had to marry, Isabella Lombardi, the second daughter of the Lombardis.
Isabella Lombardi was one of those characters that I really confusing n couldn't connect with in the start. But as the story went on, I started to understand her n why she is the way she is. She is really strong n fierce. She never let's anyone walk over her n she doesn't give up. She doesn't hide her emotions n let it show on the outside. Yet she is so vulnerable. All her life she wanted to be loved n be put first from the people she cared about or called family. Ngl she did piss me of at times but she grew on me. And by the end I really loved her.
Giovanni Vigliano was a dilf. And he had every quality that is required to be a ruthless mafia boss. He was really cold, intimidating n closed. He had a really dark past that made him the way he was. Despite that, he was a wonderful father. He would go far n beyond for his daughter.
Marzia Vigliano is my little sunshine. That baby is so intelligent n so far ahead for her age. She was literally a breath of fresh air. I loved her so much. She deserves the whole world. I loved her relationship with Gio. It was so clear that she adored her father. And I loved her relationship with Izzy too. It was so cute to watch them interact. And the way she really has Izzy wrapped around her fingers. 😂🤣😂🤣
IsaGio really served as a couple. They had an amazing chemistry n the sexual tension between them was so intense. They both went head to head at times which was interesting to read. They are really perfect for each other.
The only problem I had was that I felt the revelation of Isabella's secret n the ending was kinda rushed. I wanted it be a bit better. But I hope in the next book, we get to see more development.
The book ended with a cliffhanger in the usual Bree way. I really want the next book rn. Im literally dying to read what is going to happen next.
Overall this book was an easy read. And it served.
Thank you, Bree Porter for giving me the arc.
Of Violent Lineage is book 1 in The Vigliano Underworld series. I was so excited to read this book. And I wasn't disappointed.
Bree Porter has easily become one of my favourite author in the past year. The last series I read the of her was such a serve. And it made me happy to be back in her mafia world.
OVL started of with Giovanni Vigliano, the Don of Vigliano family conquered the Lombardis, one of the old Italian crime family. In order to severe the bond between two families, Giovanni had to marry, Isabella Lombardi, the second daughter of the Lombardis.
Isabella Lombardi was one of those characters that I really confusing n couldn't connect with in the start. But as the story went on, I started to understand her n why she is the way she is. She is really strong n fierce. She never let's anyone walk over her n she doesn't give up. She doesn't hide her emotions n let it show on the outside. Yet she is so vulnerable. All her life she wanted to be loved n be put first from the people she cared about or called family. Ngl she did piss me of at times but she grew on me. And by the end I really loved her.
Giovanni Vigliano was a dilf. And he had every quality that is required to be a ruthless mafia boss. He was really cold, intimidating n closed. He had a really dark past that made him the way he was. Despite that, he was a wonderful father. He would go far n beyond for his daughter.
Marzia Vigliano is my little sunshine. That baby is so intelligent n so far ahead for her age. She was literally a breath of fresh air. I loved her so much. She deserves the whole world. I loved her relationship with Gio. It was so clear that she adored her father. And I loved her relationship with Izzy too. It was so cute to watch them interact. And the way she really has Izzy wrapped around her fingers. 😂🤣😂🤣
IsaGio really served as a couple. They had an amazing chemistry n the sexual tension between them was so intense. They both went head to head at times which was interesting to read. They are really perfect for each other.
The only problem I had was that I felt the revelation of Isabella's secret n the ending was kinda rushed. I wanted it be a bit better. But I hope in the next book, we get to see more development.
The book ended with a cliffhanger in the usual Bree way. I really want the next book rn. Im literally dying to read what is going to happen next.
Overall this book was an easy read. And it served.
Thank you, Bree Porter for giving me the arc.
September 19, 2021
The Vigliano Underworld is the newest series in Bree Porter’s ever growing mafia world and it follows Isabella Lombardi a passionate artist with an interest in family ‘business’ and Giovanni Vigliano the head of the Vigliano mob and father of 7 year old princess Marzia!
I was interested in these two since the day they were mentioned and introduced - i mean age gap, arranged marriage AND single dad trope? all in a mafia setting? SIGN ME UP!
I was so glad to receive the arc and I must say this book is one of my favourites from Bree (which is surprising because i ADORED each and every book i’ve read of hers).
I loved the way Isabella became a part of their little family and the scenes of the three of them were probably some of my favourite. I also enjoyed reading the way izzy and Gio’s relationship developed. He was so perfectly cold in the beginning and watching couples slowly come together is always so rewarding.
I already cant wait for the second book because that ending !!!!!!! I always expect a dramatic ending in these books but wow i was on the edge of my seat when reading and I’m already theorising about the next instalment!
arc provided in exchange for an honest review.
I was interested in these two since the day they were mentioned and introduced - i mean age gap, arranged marriage AND single dad trope? all in a mafia setting? SIGN ME UP!
I was so glad to receive the arc and I must say this book is one of my favourites from Bree (which is surprising because i ADORED each and every book i’ve read of hers).
I loved the way Isabella became a part of their little family and the scenes of the three of them were probably some of my favourite. I also enjoyed reading the way izzy and Gio’s relationship developed. He was so perfectly cold in the beginning and watching couples slowly come together is always so rewarding.
I already cant wait for the second book because that ending !!!!!!! I always expect a dramatic ending in these books but wow i was on the edge of my seat when reading and I’m already theorising about the next instalment!
arc provided in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2021
ARC R/V
OVL is so rich and captivating that you will read this in one sitting!
As always, Bree Porter has a special way of bringing all her characters to life. I fell in love with Gio and Izzy instantaneously!
Both have unique personalities, with faults that they embrace wholeheartedly. Their inner thoughts, background and interactions were PERFECT, I couldn’t get enough. OVL definitely delivers on plot, as there is SO much going on you will be enthralled!
Only downfall for this book is how fast paced it is, as some major plot points felt rushed. A little more detail, background or character reflection would have been beneficial and pack more of an emotional punch. All in all, just wish there was MORE .. of everything lol.
“Empty, was my first thought as I took him in. He’s empty … I bet if you yelled into his mouth, it would echo”
“Threats are a type of currency in this world, Isabella. Spend them wisely.”
OVL is so rich and captivating that you will read this in one sitting!
As always, Bree Porter has a special way of bringing all her characters to life. I fell in love with Gio and Izzy instantaneously!
Both have unique personalities, with faults that they embrace wholeheartedly. Their inner thoughts, background and interactions were PERFECT, I couldn’t get enough. OVL definitely delivers on plot, as there is SO much going on you will be enthralled!
Only downfall for this book is how fast paced it is, as some major plot points felt rushed. A little more detail, background or character reflection would have been beneficial and pack more of an emotional punch. All in all, just wish there was MORE .. of everything lol.
“Empty, was my first thought as I took him in. He’s empty … I bet if you yelled into his mouth, it would echo”
“Threats are a type of currency in this world, Isabella. Spend them wisely.”
November 19, 2021
I love it!!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
This story was captivating and so well written. The storyline was addicting to read that I couldn’t stop putting it down. Isabella is strong minded and rebellious that I enjoyed reading her POV. I like the relationship between Mariza and her, where Isabella cared for Mariza, despite her plans that she needs to do. Giovanni is a cold and ruthless leader with many secrets that I’m curious to know more. Despite his coldness, his love for to Mariza (his daughter) was wonderful to read. I’m always a sucker for reading single dad. Giovanni and Isabella together was fill with angst and chemistry. His possessiveness towards Isabella was my favorite. The push and pull between them was fun to read and I can’t wait to see more of their relationship. The cliffhanger at the end got me wanting more and curious about what’s going to happen. Highly recommend!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
This story was captivating and so well written. The storyline was addicting to read that I couldn’t stop putting it down. Isabella is strong minded and rebellious that I enjoyed reading her POV. I like the relationship between Mariza and her, where Isabella cared for Mariza, despite her plans that she needs to do. Giovanni is a cold and ruthless leader with many secrets that I’m curious to know more. Despite his coldness, his love for to Mariza (his daughter) was wonderful to read. I’m always a sucker for reading single dad. Giovanni and Isabella together was fill with angst and chemistry. His possessiveness towards Isabella was my favorite. The push and pull between them was fun to read and I can’t wait to see more of their relationship. The cliffhanger at the end got me wanting more and curious about what’s going to happen. Highly recommend!
February 13, 2022
did not expect to binge this in two and a half hours but
December 24, 2021
3.5 stars
This is one of those books that has been downloaded on my kindle for a while and 1am Hollie has decided to pick up and read. I enjoyed this - like pretty much every BP book I have read and I’m gutted to see that book two isn’t out yet or has nothing about when we can expect it.
I won’t lie, this isn’t any different from any other mafia book and has all the same cliches we have claimed to love, but this book is well written and leaves on enough of a cliffhanger that early morning me went searching for the second book.
I liked the pacing, the characters and the stepmother/stepdaughter element. I liked how the romance was building and they never rushed into anything which was nice to see in a mafia romance.
I am curious to see how the final book plays out (although I can imagine) and I’ll be glad to pick it up when it’s out!
This is one of those books that has been downloaded on my kindle for a while and 1am Hollie has decided to pick up and read. I enjoyed this - like pretty much every BP book I have read and I’m gutted to see that book two isn’t out yet or has nothing about when we can expect it.
I won’t lie, this isn’t any different from any other mafia book and has all the same cliches we have claimed to love, but this book is well written and leaves on enough of a cliffhanger that early morning me went searching for the second book.
I liked the pacing, the characters and the stepmother/stepdaughter element. I liked how the romance was building and they never rushed into anything which was nice to see in a mafia romance.
I am curious to see how the final book plays out (although I can imagine) and I’ll be glad to pick it up when it’s out!
December 29, 2021
The beginning of this book was pretty slow but I’m really excited for book two, I have a feeling it’s really going to pick up. I enjoyed how slow burn Isabella and Giovannis relationship was, sometimes with the arranged marriage trope couples fall in love way too easily. It really should take a good amount of time to fall in love with someone you don’t even like.
Also love the single parent trope and kids in romance in general. It’s so wholesome watching them become a little family.
Three stars because it was slow and I was annoyed with Isabella the entire time. Like you’re really going to spy for your shitty parents? I get the childhood trauma, but please…
Also love the single parent trope and kids in romance in general. It’s so wholesome watching them become a little family.
Three stars because it was slow and I was annoyed with Isabella the entire time. Like you’re really going to spy for your shitty parents? I get the childhood trauma, but please…
September 20, 2021
You will have power and respect. You will have fear."
I completed this book in two sittings. The plot is gripping.
This is the first book in a brand new series by Bree Porter. It's a great introduction into new Mafia World.
Giovanni Vigiliano wins the Lombardi territory in New York. Isabella father was the ruler.
Giovanni will do anything to be King. Even marry the daughter of his enemy. Isabella becomes her family's meal ticket, they believe the only way for her family to get there territory back is by having Isabella marry Giovanni and to learn what he's up to and how he took control.
Isabella becomes his wife. There relationship isn't the usual mafia relationship I've read before it's not insta love which I like. Giovanni stays the cold, emotionless man he is all the way through. Yes they get stremy together and wow it's hot. Giovanni is a man who is set in his ways. He doesn't trust anyone. The only soft side you see to him is with his daughter. There relationship is incredible. Marzia is from his first married. She honestly turns this book into something sweet. Her and Isabella together are adorable. Isabella adapts to motherhood so naturally. She is a great character, she made me laugh a lot. She is so strong, she doesn't back down at all to Giovanni. Her story is sad at parts. Her family don't treat her well. She misplaced with them.
The plot is great I can't wait for the next book. I hope the wait isn't too long.
There were a couple of parts I didn't love, they are parts that happen that aren't explained at all for example the woman in his office, the mother getting into there hope then suddenly disappearing?
But I am hoping they will be explained in the next book.
I completed this book in two sittings. The plot is gripping.
This is the first book in a brand new series by Bree Porter. It's a great introduction into new Mafia World.
Giovanni Vigiliano wins the Lombardi territory in New York. Isabella father was the ruler.
Giovanni will do anything to be King. Even marry the daughter of his enemy. Isabella becomes her family's meal ticket, they believe the only way for her family to get there territory back is by having Isabella marry Giovanni and to learn what he's up to and how he took control.
Isabella becomes his wife. There relationship isn't the usual mafia relationship I've read before it's not insta love which I like. Giovanni stays the cold, emotionless man he is all the way through. Yes they get stremy together and wow it's hot. Giovanni is a man who is set in his ways. He doesn't trust anyone. The only soft side you see to him is with his daughter. There relationship is incredible. Marzia is from his first married. She honestly turns this book into something sweet. Her and Isabella together are adorable. Isabella adapts to motherhood so naturally. She is a great character, she made me laugh a lot. She is so strong, she doesn't back down at all to Giovanni. Her story is sad at parts. Her family don't treat her well. She misplaced with them.
The plot is great I can't wait for the next book. I hope the wait isn't too long.
There were a couple of parts I didn't love, they are parts that happen that aren't explained at all for example the woman in his office, the mother getting into there hope then suddenly disappearing?
But I am hoping they will be explained in the next book.
September 24, 2021
Of violent lineage is a mafia romance by Bree Porter . It is the first book in the The Vigliano Underworld series and the start of Isabella and Giovanni’s story.
I really enjoyed reading this. I think it is a great read with strong characters and storyline. I also really enjoyed the prologue. It gave the book a great, strong start and got me hyped for the rest of the book.
Isabella is an amazing heroine! I really like her character, as her personality is fantastic. She’s fierce, strong, ambitious and incredibly strong willed. One thing is for certain- that girl never backs down. I also love how emotive she is. How she feels strongly in everything she does. But I especially like her anger. It makes her extra fierce and imperfect. Which might be the main reason I like her character, she isn’t perfect. She is seen as the ‘second best’ and I think that allows me to understand and connect to her more.
And Giovanni... I do like his character, however I feel like we haven’t even touched the surface with him. I feel like there is more to him than what we read in this book and I can’t wait to find it out. One thing I do love about him is his relationship to his daughter. Let’s just say I swooned.
The only thing I didn’t like was the last few chapters, simply because it was confusing and I didn’t know what was happening. But it didn’t stop this from being a great read.
I think OVL is a great read and I can’t wait to read part 2. Especially after that cliff hanger 😫.
Thanks for the ARC! 💗
STARS:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶🌶
I really enjoyed reading this. I think it is a great read with strong characters and storyline. I also really enjoyed the prologue. It gave the book a great, strong start and got me hyped for the rest of the book.
Isabella is an amazing heroine! I really like her character, as her personality is fantastic. She’s fierce, strong, ambitious and incredibly strong willed. One thing is for certain- that girl never backs down. I also love how emotive she is. How she feels strongly in everything she does. But I especially like her anger. It makes her extra fierce and imperfect. Which might be the main reason I like her character, she isn’t perfect. She is seen as the ‘second best’ and I think that allows me to understand and connect to her more.
And Giovanni... I do like his character, however I feel like we haven’t even touched the surface with him. I feel like there is more to him than what we read in this book and I can’t wait to find it out. One thing I do love about him is his relationship to his daughter. Let’s just say I swooned.
The only thing I didn’t like was the last few chapters, simply because it was confusing and I didn’t know what was happening. But it didn’t stop this from being a great read.
I think OVL is a great read and I can’t wait to read part 2. Especially after that cliff hanger 😫.
Thanks for the ARC! 💗
STARS:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶🌶
Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews