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Breaking Lucia #2
Taming Lucia
Am I their partner... or their pet?
Victor promised me that I'd be one of the team. That I'll stand at his side, helping him mastermind my father's demise. I'll direct Saint to finding our enemies, and I'll tell Angelo when to pull the trigger.
So why does it feel like they're humoring me? Why is every single victory only followed by another humiliation? I need to prove to them that I'm important to their operation. I need to prove that I'm not expendable.
I need them to need me, or else I might end up shattered in pieces so small, there's no way to put me back together.
Note: This work contains extremely dark themes with potentially triggering content. Read at your own discretion.
Victor promised me that I'd be one of the team. That I'll stand at his side, helping him mastermind my father's demise. I'll direct Saint to finding our enemies, and I'll tell Angelo when to pull the trigger.
So why does it feel like they're humoring me? Why is every single victory only followed by another humiliation? I need to prove to them that I'm important to their operation. I need to prove that I'm not expendable.
I need them to need me, or else I might end up shattered in pieces so small, there's no way to put me back together.
Note: This work contains extremely dark themes with potentially triggering content. Read at your own discretion.
322 pages, ebook
First published December 28, 2021
203 people are currently reading
483 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
February 9, 2022
This ended up being a solid 4 stars! Especially considering the ending. So many mixed opinions....I don't recommend this to any of my GR friends ;)
Pros:
✔️ Strong heroine. She fights back, but not in a stupid way.
She isn't an OTT badass. I hate it when authors have young heroines that turn into badass fighting machines that can expertly wield knives and guns with no previous training. This heroine can shoot a gun, but she isn't better than the men around her who have years of experience on her. In this book she's trying to learn as much as she can about the organization and people around her.
✔️ Each MMC has unique personalities. This is important to me in RH.
Furthermore, there are interpersonal dynamics, power plays going on between all the MMCs that was interesting to watch play out. A MMF dynamic is not my first go-to choice when reading, but it worked very very well here, partly because the characterization was good.
✔️ Power exchange dynamics well executed.
There is absolutely no safe, sane, and consensual BDSM going on in this book. However, the authors clearly have experience writing BDSM, because they took power exchange dynamics and played with it in interesting ways with all the characters. There are constant power maneuvers going on between every single character. This held my attention, despite not all the kinks being to my tastes.
✔️ Overall the writing style was just good. Sometimes I'd read something that disgusted me, yet I couldn't put the book down because the writing and characterization was....good.
✔️ This is full of dark-humour. I don't know where to start - like Angelo being a rose gardner or Victor's reaction to the ending being like 'we should have left her in the closet for one more hour.' A pet peeve I have is trashy reads like this taking themselves too seriously. This series hasn't done that, thank god.
✔️ I struggle a lot with RH and have no idea why I continue to read it. Somehow I'm 100% buying into the RH dynamic here. Probably because the guys are just using her as a convenient toy that lives nearby in their organization and currently find her useful to their operations. That seems plausible. You can see how they've all grown attached to her and there's room for more development.
Cons
❌ Some of the kinks and things that happen are frankly gross. There's a lot of crudeness in this story. This is filthy dirty and depraved. It's to the point that I'd almost be embarrassed if any of my GR friends read this book.
ETA: I'm coming back to say I don't mean to kink shame :) Even I found some of the scenes hot. Others were....unnerving? Just, there's something about the way the authors write the scenes that push my limits.
Trigger Warnings:
Safety:
Cliffhanger: Yes, this is a trilogy and has a whopping cliffhanger.
I think fans of No Good Deed by Emma Cole will like this book. The crudeness and trash level is about the same. I like this better because it's better written.
Pros:
✔️ Strong heroine. She fights back, but not in a stupid way.
She isn't an OTT badass. I hate it when authors have young heroines that turn into badass fighting machines that can expertly wield knives and guns with no previous training. This heroine can shoot a gun, but she isn't better than the men around her who have years of experience on her. In this book she's trying to learn as much as she can about the organization and people around her.
✔️ Each MMC has unique personalities. This is important to me in RH.
Furthermore, there are interpersonal dynamics, power plays going on between all the MMCs that was interesting to watch play out. A MMF dynamic is not my first go-to choice when reading, but it worked very very well here, partly because the characterization was good.
✔️ Power exchange dynamics well executed.
There is absolutely no safe, sane, and consensual BDSM going on in this book. However, the authors clearly have experience writing BDSM, because they took power exchange dynamics and played with it in interesting ways with all the characters. There are constant power maneuvers going on between every single character. This held my attention, despite not all the kinks being to my tastes.
✔️ Overall the writing style was just good. Sometimes I'd read something that disgusted me, yet I couldn't put the book down because the writing and characterization was....good.
✔️ This is full of dark-humour. I don't know where to start - like Angelo being a rose gardner or Victor's reaction to the ending being like 'we should have left her in the closet for one more hour.' A pet peeve I have is trashy reads like this taking themselves too seriously. This series hasn't done that, thank god.
✔️ I struggle a lot with RH and have no idea why I continue to read it. Somehow I'm 100% buying into the RH dynamic here. Probably because the guys are just using her as a convenient toy that lives nearby in their organization and currently find her useful to their operations. That seems plausible. You can see how they've all grown attached to her and there's room for more development.
Cons
❌ Some of the kinks and things that happen are frankly gross. There's a lot of crudeness in this story. This is filthy dirty and depraved. It's to the point that I'd almost be embarrassed if any of my GR friends read this book.
ETA: I'm coming back to say I don't mean to kink shame :) Even I found some of the scenes hot. Others were....unnerving? Just, there's something about the way the authors write the scenes that push my limits.
Trigger Warnings:
Safety:
Cliffhanger: Yes, this is a trilogy and has a whopping cliffhanger.
I think fans of No Good Deed by Emma Cole will like this book. The crudeness and trash level is about the same. I like this better because it's better written.
December 29, 2021
Dark Mafia RH
At the end of book 1, Lucia agreed to work with Victor, Saint and Angel. Unfortunately, she is anything but a partner. Did I expect things to change? Yes. Did they? Nooooo. This book is filled with moments of humiliation and degradation efforts. As a reader, I truly felt the humiliation that Lucia was experiencing.The writing is so good and depicts the situation so perfectly.
The characters continue their development and the story gets very interesting. Lucia learns to manipulate on a better b level than she previously did. She doesn't quite hold her own, but she her character is getting stronger mentally. I see the path the authors are going to bring out the best Lucia she can be.
I cannot praise this second book enough. I'll be counting the days until the next book!
If you prefer the dark side, this one is for you. You will never look at a gun the same way! Please review the TW before beginning this book. Highly recommend.
I was provided an ARC copy for my honest review.
At the end of book 1, Lucia agreed to work with Victor, Saint and Angel. Unfortunately, she is anything but a partner. Did I expect things to change? Yes. Did they? Nooooo. This book is filled with moments of humiliation and degradation efforts. As a reader, I truly felt the humiliation that Lucia was experiencing.The writing is so good and depicts the situation so perfectly.
The characters continue their development and the story gets very interesting. Lucia learns to manipulate on a better b level than she previously did. She doesn't quite hold her own, but she her character is getting stronger mentally. I see the path the authors are going to bring out the best Lucia she can be.
I cannot praise this second book enough. I'll be counting the days until the next book!
If you prefer the dark side, this one is for you. You will never look at a gun the same way! Please review the TW before beginning this book. Highly recommend.
I was provided an ARC copy for my honest review.
July 7, 2023
Like the first book this was ok. Main male leads Saint, Angel, and Victor still abuse the heroine Lucia. At least Lucia puts up a good fight back against the guys, she is no door mat. This isn't a romance, mostly one scene after another of smut. It's not bad smut, but it would be nice if there were some feelings between the characters, to show that they actually cared for one another on some level. I mean we get one scene at the end of this book where Angel pretty much realizes he knows nothing about Lucia, and it bothers him (good). I just hope that in the next book we get the guys feeling some level of remorse / want to try to care for Lucia outside of a physical relationship.
Also what kind of bothered me in this series is that we don't know any of the characters' ages nor where any of this is taking place. I am assuming this is somewhere in the US? Or is it in Italy? They mention Angel's brother's ex-mother in law lives in Venice? I don't know, kind of wish we would get some context.
Also what kind of bothered me in this series is that we don't know any of the characters' ages nor where any of this is taking place. I am assuming this is somewhere in the US? Or is it in Italy? They mention Angel's brother's ex-mother in law lives in Venice? I don't know, kind of wish we would get some context.
fm-mfm-why-choose
November 15, 2023DNF - no rating - clearing out my paused shelf
I love the MM books these authors write, so I'm not exactly sure why the Why Choose/poly MFMM books aren't working for me, but I'm tired of forcing myself to continue with it. The writing style seems different and that's okay, just not into it.
I love the MM books these authors write, so I'm not exactly sure why the Why Choose/poly MFMM books aren't working for me, but I'm tired of forcing myself to continue with it. The writing style seems different and that's okay, just not into it.
March 15, 2022
This book wrecked me. You could really feel everything that Lucia went through and the guys were such pricks. Yet never took blame or saw why she wanted to leave. They never once took in consideration what she wanted or needed. They just kept taking, abusing, humiliating, and degrading her. She was completely badass though, she never let them break her.
We get another side of Saint in this one. He has a submissive side, "good boy" kink, insecure about his sexually and place in the team.
▪︎ Chapter 9 that scene with Angelo and Lucia at the shooting range, was fucked up as hell. 🔫 in her 🙀
▪︎ God, Victor's way of teaching humility was awful. Especially humiliating her in front of the gaurds and allowing them to touch her anywhere. Chapters 11 & 12 made me so mad and I hated all three of the guys. Like to the point I wanted to stop reading. Victor and Angelo were the biggest assholes, while Saint was weak and just went with the flow. I would have rather slept on the floor than in his bed with his narcissistic ass.
▪︎ Chapter 13 Saint saying that he, Angelo, and Victor respect Lucia was a crock of shit. They hadn't at that point, they were still treating her as an object and blow-up doll.
▪︎ Chapter 15 🥵👅🔥 testing Saint's boundaries. Lucia gets him to finger Angelo. The whole scene was hot-af
▪︎ Chapter 20 🥵👅🔥pushing Saint again with Lucia & Victor. Even better than chapter 15
▪︎ Chapter 30 I could really feel the hatered Lucia had for the guys. Because I was right there with her.
▪︎ Chapter 31 pages 278-281 😭
We get another side of Saint in this one. He has a submissive side, "good boy" kink, insecure about his sexually and place in the team.
▪︎ Chapter 9 that scene with Angelo and Lucia at the shooting range, was fucked up as hell. 🔫 in her 🙀
▪︎ God, Victor's way of teaching humility was awful. Especially humiliating her in front of the gaurds and allowing them to touch her anywhere. Chapters 11 & 12 made me so mad and I hated all three of the guys. Like to the point I wanted to stop reading. Victor and Angelo were the biggest assholes, while Saint was weak and just went with the flow. I would have rather slept on the floor than in his bed with his narcissistic ass.
▪︎ Chapter 13 Saint saying that he, Angelo, and Victor respect Lucia was a crock of shit. They hadn't at that point, they were still treating her as an object and blow-up doll.
▪︎ Chapter 15 🥵👅🔥 testing Saint's boundaries. Lucia gets him to finger Angelo. The whole scene was hot-af
▪︎ Chapter 20 🥵👅🔥pushing Saint again with Lucia & Victor. Even better than chapter 15
▪︎ Chapter 30 I could really feel the hatered Lucia had for the guys. Because I was right there with her.
▪︎ Chapter 31 pages 278-281 😭
July 16, 2024
although it had smut of 50 trigger warnings, it was so boring. Skipped from 67% to the end for finally some interesting plot where it had a cliffhanger. Authors could've tossed out this entire book and go straight to the 3rd one because I can't tell you a single thing that happened relevant to the plot. I was also tired of the annoying FMC being undecided if she had stockholm syndrome or not.
June 19, 2024
At the end of the last book, Lucia pulled a gun on Victor and he promised that the four of them could be partners in running their mafia and taking out her father and finance Pavone.
At the start of this book, things seem to be going…okay? I mean, they’re not fine by any means and Lucia spends a lot of time as either arm candy or generally being left out. At first she’s sort of satisfied with this and takes some time to learn about her surroundings and the day to day running of the house. She gains the respect of some of the guards and gets to know Victor, Angelo and Saint a little better as people (although they show little interest in getting to know her as a person).
This doesn’t last for long though; she lets her emotions control her one too many times and Victor punishes her for it. In the process of her punishment, she is humiliated publicly, loses the respect of some of the guards and anger, bitterness and hatred take root.
Lucia begins to form a plan, slowly working to take back some of her control, and to exercise more control over the guys by exploiting their weaknesses and manipulating them. She uses Victor’s own game against all three of them. Victor realises what she’s doing but allows it to continue, and Lucia is unsure why.
We come to the climax of this story when Victor takes a punishment ‘too far’ and is convinced by Angelo and Saint to end the punishment earlier than planned. Victor is unsure and argues that the punishment needs to go on for longer, but relents and allows it to end. Lucia is shaken by the punishment and her change in behaviour as a result is upsetting to Saint and Angelo. They attempt to cheer her up and offer to take her out on a date to make her feel better and prove that they care about her. All seems to be going well on the date, until the guys realise that Lucia has spent a little too long in the bathroom…
Trigger and Content Warnings:
Dub/non con
D/s
Gunplay
Somnophilia
Total sensory deprivation
Total isolation
Free use
Humiliation (public and private)
Femdom
M/M play
Bondage
Edging
Spanking
Whipping (belt)
Piercing
Violence
Murder
Dismemberment
Blood/gore
Drugging
Captivity
**Please check trigger warnings before reading. Look after yourself, your mental health is important. You are loved and you matter**
🌶️ - medium to high
At the start of this book, things seem to be going…okay? I mean, they’re not fine by any means and Lucia spends a lot of time as either arm candy or generally being left out. At first she’s sort of satisfied with this and takes some time to learn about her surroundings and the day to day running of the house. She gains the respect of some of the guards and gets to know Victor, Angelo and Saint a little better as people (although they show little interest in getting to know her as a person).
This doesn’t last for long though; she lets her emotions control her one too many times and Victor punishes her for it. In the process of her punishment, she is humiliated publicly, loses the respect of some of the guards and anger, bitterness and hatred take root.
Lucia begins to form a plan, slowly working to take back some of her control, and to exercise more control over the guys by exploiting their weaknesses and manipulating them. She uses Victor’s own game against all three of them. Victor realises what she’s doing but allows it to continue, and Lucia is unsure why.
We come to the climax of this story when Victor takes a punishment ‘too far’ and is convinced by Angelo and Saint to end the punishment earlier than planned. Victor is unsure and argues that the punishment needs to go on for longer, but relents and allows it to end. Lucia is shaken by the punishment and her change in behaviour as a result is upsetting to Saint and Angelo. They attempt to cheer her up and offer to take her out on a date to make her feel better and prove that they care about her. All seems to be going well on the date, until the guys realise that Lucia has spent a little too long in the bathroom…
Trigger and Content Warnings:
Dub/non con
D/s
Gunplay
Somnophilia
Total sensory deprivation
Total isolation
Free use
Humiliation (public and private)
Femdom
M/M play
Bondage
Edging
Spanking
Whipping (belt)
Piercing
Violence
Murder
Dismemberment
Blood/gore
Drugging
Captivity
**Please check trigger warnings before reading. Look after yourself, your mental health is important. You are loved and you matter**
🌶️ - medium to high
December 28, 2021
**Disclaimer I have received an ARC of this book and I'm leaving my honest review. All my opinions are my own.**
First of all, thank you so much for the chance of reading an ARC of Taming Lucia. This was another of my most anticipated reads and I'm so happy that I got one.
This won't be a coherent review because all my feelings are all over the floor and I can't put them into words.
Wow. This book is darker than the first one. And damn right, I enjoyed every moment of it. In this book the reader is presented with a dilemma: after how things ended in book one, is Lucia going to be Victor, Angelo and Saint's partner, or not? But it's not only that, Victor's organization is receiving threats in the form of body parts. Really. Body parts. They suspect who is behind this, and they try to figure out how to stop it.
Now, the way they all three have evolved is amazing. I loved seeing Lucia be more confident on herself about what she wants and how she gets it. It was amazing how manipulative she can be, I was loving her so much while reading some scenes. *Screams into a pillow because!!!!* Also I really felt bad for her in some scenes, it broke my heart to see her trying to adapt to this hard situation with no better options. But she's so strong and she can face whatever it's thrown at her. Then there's the relationship with the boys. Saint is so precious. I love all three, but I have a sweet spot for Saint, and all he's been through. Lucia's firm hand with him was so hot hot hot. I hope he gets past his issues and can enjoy his time with the rest. *If you know, you know.* Then we have Angelo and Victor. Oh boy. These two. These two are two strong son of a biscuit eater. I love them at one point, then the next moment they irritated me so much! Istg!!!
And the ending. THAT. F******. ENDING. ARE YOU KIDDING ME??? Please give me the next book, please?? I can't believe it'll be the last one, because apparently it's a trilogy. I certainly want more of these characters.
I enjoyed this book very much. It's very fast paced and addicting. I. Loved. It. And I can't wait to see how things evolve in the next one, given what happens in the end of this one...it's going to be really interesting.
Total rating: 5 / ⭐
First of all, thank you so much for the chance of reading an ARC of Taming Lucia. This was another of my most anticipated reads and I'm so happy that I got one.
This won't be a coherent review because all my feelings are all over the floor and I can't put them into words.
Wow. This book is darker than the first one. And damn right, I enjoyed every moment of it. In this book the reader is presented with a dilemma: after how things ended in book one, is Lucia going to be Victor, Angelo and Saint's partner, or not? But it's not only that, Victor's organization is receiving threats in the form of body parts. Really. Body parts. They suspect who is behind this, and they try to figure out how to stop it.
Now, the way they all three have evolved is amazing. I loved seeing Lucia be more confident on herself about what she wants and how she gets it. It was amazing how manipulative she can be, I was loving her so much while reading some scenes. *Screams into a pillow because!!!!* Also I really felt bad for her in some scenes, it broke my heart to see her trying to adapt to this hard situation with no better options. But she's so strong and she can face whatever it's thrown at her. Then there's the relationship with the boys. Saint is so precious. I love all three, but I have a sweet spot for Saint, and all he's been through. Lucia's firm hand with him was so hot hot hot. I hope he gets past his issues and can enjoy his time with the rest. *If you know, you know.* Then we have Angelo and Victor. Oh boy. These two. These two are two strong son of a biscuit eater. I love them at one point, then the next moment they irritated me so much! Istg!!!
And the ending. THAT. F******. ENDING. ARE YOU KIDDING ME??? Please give me the next book, please?? I can't believe it'll be the last one, because apparently it's a trilogy. I certainly want more of these characters.
I enjoyed this book very much. It's very fast paced and addicting. I. Loved. It. And I can't wait to see how things evolve in the next one, given what happens in the end of this one...it's going to be really interesting.
Total rating: 5 / ⭐
January 2, 2022
What a way to start the new year! HOLY HELL!!! This book is just as dubious and dare I say maybe a tad bit darker than the first book! My dark soul devoured this book, and now I am reeling from the things that happen.. I mean I am trying to word this review without giving any spoilers. I do not want to ruin this for anyone. Please note this book has triggers.
Lucia continues to grow and become stronger. There were times I felt the need to reach in and smack Victor, Angel, & Saint upside the head, but I won't elaborate too much on that. Just know a junk punch crossed my mind a time or two. They are just as devious and delicious as they were in the first book. Still pushing boundaries & testing uncharted waters between all four of them! The violence, twists, and turns will have you on the edge of your seat needing to know what will happen next.
Now I get to sit and wait for the next book so I can see just how everything plays out.
Lucia continues to grow and become stronger. There were times I felt the need to reach in and smack Victor, Angel, & Saint upside the head, but I won't elaborate too much on that. Just know a junk punch crossed my mind a time or two. They are just as devious and delicious as they were in the first book. Still pushing boundaries & testing uncharted waters between all four of them! The violence, twists, and turns will have you on the edge of your seat needing to know what will happen next.
Now I get to sit and wait for the next book so I can see just how everything plays out.
November 23, 2025
Dark romance
Why choose- MFMM
Toxic relationship
Multi POV - 1st person POV
Dual narration - TJ Clark, Evan Parker, Branden Davis-Butler & Kayden Lukakis
Book 2 Breaking Lucia
*not a standalone, need to read book 1 first
Content Notes:
Dub/noncon, D/s, gunplay, somnophilia, total sensory deprivation, humiliation, public humiliation, femdom, m/m anal, m/f anal play, bondage, edging, spanking, whipping (with belt), piercing, violence
I am begging Lucia to get out of this situation. I feel so sad for her. This is definitely dark, not a ton of “romance” happening in this yet. I am hoping for more in book 3.
These MMCs are absolutely terrible to Lucia, the things that this girl has to go through in this book.
The narrators did a great job. I truly felt this story come alive.
Please check your trigger warnings before diving into this book.
Why choose- MFMM
Toxic relationship
Multi POV - 1st person POV
Dual narration - TJ Clark, Evan Parker, Branden Davis-Butler & Kayden Lukakis
Book 2 Breaking Lucia
*not a standalone, need to read book 1 first
Content Notes:
Dub/noncon, D/s, gunplay, somnophilia, total sensory deprivation, humiliation, public humiliation, femdom, m/m anal, m/f anal play, bondage, edging, spanking, whipping (with belt), piercing, violence
I am begging Lucia to get out of this situation. I feel so sad for her. This is definitely dark, not a ton of “romance” happening in this yet. I am hoping for more in book 3.
These MMCs are absolutely terrible to Lucia, the things that this girl has to go through in this book.
The narrators did a great job. I truly felt this story come alive.
Please check your trigger warnings before diving into this book.
December 29, 2021
This is the second book in this incredible trilogy and continues straight on from when the first book ended. Lucia comes into her own in this story, and she needs to prove to Victor, Saint, and Angelo, that she is not expendable, and that she is a vital part of their operation. Lucia is stronger and she can manage any challenges that are thrown her way. This is a mindblowing storyline and ends in a jaw dropping cliffy. This is a well written story which is fast paced, and is dark, raw, gritty, intriguing, thrilling, and with danger, suspense, and is emotionally charged. I look forward to reading the conclusion off this phenomenal trilogy. These talented authors have done an outstanding job in weaving this intricate story.
January 1, 2022
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
OMG this is definitely a very dark read though I was still captivated from start to finish. Lucia finally starts figuring out who she is by the end of this book. The guys may be doing their best to break her but they just might make her stronger instead. Either way this makes for quite the roller coaster read as this all plays out. I am looking forward to the next book to see how the dynamics work out in the end. Makes for a riveting dark read that contains all sorts of triggers. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
OMG this is definitely a very dark read though I was still captivated from start to finish. Lucia finally starts figuring out who she is by the end of this book. The guys may be doing their best to break her but they just might make her stronger instead. Either way this makes for quite the roller coaster read as this all plays out. I am looking forward to the next book to see how the dynamics work out in the end. Makes for a riveting dark read that contains all sorts of triggers. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
December 30, 2021
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Taming Lucia picks up right where Breaking Lucia ended. She thought she'd be treated as an equal and earn respect as the partner Victor promised her she would be. But Victor wouldn't be Victor if he didn't keep humiliating and manipulating her.
This is a dark romance but to be honest, I would not use those two words to describe this story. Sick? Yes! Twisted? Defenitely! Cringe worthy? Abso-fucking-lutely!
Romance? There is no such thing in here. BUT it's heading in that direction. Though very, very slowly.
Like the first book I got uncomfortable multiple times. And like the first book there is no shortage of sex. A bit too much, but then again this story would not be the same without. There were however two scenes that were 🔥🔥
I loved this book and can't wait for book three. Bring it!
Taming Lucia picks up right where Breaking Lucia ended. She thought she'd be treated as an equal and earn respect as the partner Victor promised her she would be. But Victor wouldn't be Victor if he didn't keep humiliating and manipulating her.
This is a dark romance but to be honest, I would not use those two words to describe this story. Sick? Yes! Twisted? Defenitely! Cringe worthy? Abso-fucking-lutely!
Romance? There is no such thing in here. BUT it's heading in that direction. Though very, very slowly.
Like the first book I got uncomfortable multiple times. And like the first book there is no shortage of sex. A bit too much, but then again this story would not be the same without. There were however two scenes that were 🔥🔥
I loved this book and can't wait for book three. Bring it!
January 16, 2022
Taming Lucia
Hmmm....I'm not sure how to feel about this series. It's definitely well written. I guess the demeaning and degrading bs that they put Lucia through is off putting to me, but not enough that I'll be reading the next book. Like I said it's well written and I'm really hoping better things for Lucia. So I'll be patiently waiting for the next release.
Hmmm....I'm not sure how to feel about this series. It's definitely well written. I guess the demeaning and degrading bs that they put Lucia through is off putting to me, but not enough that I'll be reading the next book. Like I said it's well written and I'm really hoping better things for Lucia. So I'll be patiently waiting for the next release.
April 23, 2022
4.5⭐️
5🌶
⚠️TRIGGERS UPON TRIGGERS⚠️
________________
I swear the triggers get heavier as the series goes on. So enter with caution. This is not for the faint of heart.
I adored this book, but I adored book 1 more. The characters had some amazing spice scenes. They all push each other’s boundaries in all he wrong ways.
I’m diving into book 3 to finish the series!!
5🌶
⚠️TRIGGERS UPON TRIGGERS⚠️
________________
I swear the triggers get heavier as the series goes on. So enter with caution. This is not for the faint of heart.
I adored this book, but I adored book 1 more. The characters had some amazing spice scenes. They all push each other’s boundaries in all he wrong ways.
I’m diving into book 3 to finish the series!!
December 3, 2025
(Audio)
I really enjoy these characters. And the overarching story. But I do think these books are too long. Book 1 and 2 could have been one book and It would have had a faster pace and a better outcome in my opinion.
3.5⭐️
3🌶️
4🎧
I really enjoy these characters. And the overarching story. But I do think these books are too long. Book 1 and 2 could have been one book and It would have had a faster pace and a better outcome in my opinion.
3.5⭐️
3🌶️
4🎧
December 1, 2025
Lucia is a standout heroine: strong, complicated, and easy to root for. Her dynamic with the male lead is electric — part clash, part connection, all addictive. The pacing is tight, the dialogue lands, and the world feels immersive without ever getting bogged down.
What I loved most is the balance of intensity and vulnerability. Amid the twists and dark edges, the characters’ emotional depth really shines, making the ending hit even harder.
If you like character-driven stories with heat, heart, and high stakes, Taming Lucia is absolutely worth the read.
What I loved most is the balance of intensity and vulnerability. Amid the twists and dark edges, the characters’ emotional depth really shines, making the ending hit even harder.
If you like character-driven stories with heat, heart, and high stakes, Taming Lucia is absolutely worth the read.
March 14, 2023
I Give this Book a 4/5 Star Rating.
Cliffhanger(?): Yes
Relationship Type: RH>Reverse Harem: MMFM
M/M(?): Yes
Heat: 4-4.5/5
Romance: 3(?)/5
Drama: 3.5-4(?):5
Suspense: 3.5-4(?):5
Pacing: Mid, but also kinda Fast Mid in a way.
Dark(?): 2/5, May be darker for others.
This Book to me was definitely all over the place, I’m not entirely sure how I feel about it but I’m still jumping into the next book right now, so review is short.
Cliffhanger(?): Yes
Relationship Type: RH>Reverse Harem: MMFM
M/M(?): Yes
Heat: 4-4.5/5
Romance: 3(?)/5
Drama: 3.5-4(?):5
Suspense: 3.5-4(?):5
Pacing: Mid, but also kinda Fast Mid in a way.
Dark(?): 2/5, May be darker for others.
This Book to me was definitely all over the place, I’m not entirely sure how I feel about it but I’m still jumping into the next book right now, so review is short.
March 20, 2022
This book is fucked up. But am I going to read the next book? YES
This book is among the darkest book I’ve read and contains many triggers like noncon and dubcon sex, public humiliation, gun play, noncon bondage, somnophilia kink, spanking and belt beating.
Characters:
Lucia - I love her. She’s so strong and despite everything she went through from those three psychos, she still manage to protect her mind and heart from falling for them. I feel like crying and cursing every time Lucia was humiliated and being called loose slut. Like come on, just because she slept around she gets to be called a slut and a whore? When men slept around what happens? Nobody called them a manwhore. So sexist. I freaking love the ending of this book. She deserves to escape from them.
Victor - I hate him so much. He is the worst among the three. He’s a dominant freak. The public humiliation? The ass beating with belt? Tie, blindfold, gagged, ear plugged and hung Lucia in the closet? I can understand how broken Lucia feels when Victor promised her as famiglia but then treat her like some sex toy. He’s so desperate to break Lucia and turn her into his sex pliant kitten.
Angelo - This man, ugh. I don’t really hate him. And the gun play? That’s hot. I kinda like him but not really. Sometimes he’s good sometimes he’s out of the way.
Santino - Apparently, he’s the good one (among the three) and it’s understandable that some people has somnophilia kink. The threesome (MMF) of him with Lucia and Angelo and also him, Lucia and Victor is spicy okay hahaha. I like them because Lucia is in power in those scenes. I also like that he stands up for Lucia at the end of the book.
I just wish next book Loving Lucia will have some real love because there is no pure romance here. Can’t wait for the updates !!
This book is among the darkest book I’ve read and contains many triggers like noncon and dubcon sex, public humiliation, gun play, noncon bondage, somnophilia kink, spanking and belt beating.
Characters:
Lucia - I love her. She’s so strong and despite everything she went through from those three psychos, she still manage to protect her mind and heart from falling for them. I feel like crying and cursing every time Lucia was humiliated and being called loose slut. Like come on, just because she slept around she gets to be called a slut and a whore? When men slept around what happens? Nobody called them a manwhore. So sexist. I freaking love the ending of this book. She deserves to escape from them.
Victor - I hate him so much. He is the worst among the three. He’s a dominant freak. The public humiliation? The ass beating with belt? Tie, blindfold, gagged, ear plugged and hung Lucia in the closet? I can understand how broken Lucia feels when Victor promised her as famiglia but then treat her like some sex toy. He’s so desperate to break Lucia and turn her into his sex pliant kitten.
Angelo - This man, ugh. I don’t really hate him. And the gun play? That’s hot. I kinda like him but not really. Sometimes he’s good sometimes he’s out of the way.
Santino - Apparently, he’s the good one (among the three) and it’s understandable that some people has somnophilia kink. The threesome (MMF) of him with Lucia and Angelo and also him, Lucia and Victor is spicy okay hahaha. I like them because Lucia is in power in those scenes. I also like that he stands up for Lucia at the end of the book.
I just wish next book Loving Lucia will have some real love because there is no pure romance here. Can’t wait for the updates !!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2022
3.5/5 Stars
Possible spoilers.
I read both the first and second in this series in the space of a couple of days and absolutely devoured them. The spice is top-notch and there is no such thing as holding back, which I LOVE.
I gave the first book a 4/5 stars and the only reason I dropped the rating for this book is purely selfish. Victor, one of the three male leads, is my favourite. He terrifies me, drives me wild and he's addictive. I often found myself begging alongside Lucia for his approval.
This brings me to why I dropped half a star. When Lucia starts to show more of her strength and her character begins to develop, I had hoped that Victor would soften, just a little.
Don't get me wrong, him because he's practically soulless and he doesn't give anything away. But with this book I found myself wishing he'd offer Lucia just a hint and what was behind the cold mask. A tiny thread of respect or maybe even a hint at affection outside of the manipulation.
Nevertheless, I cant wait to read the next book.
Possible spoilers.
I read both the first and second in this series in the space of a couple of days and absolutely devoured them. The spice is top-notch and there is no such thing as holding back, which I LOVE.
I gave the first book a 4/5 stars and the only reason I dropped the rating for this book is purely selfish. Victor, one of the three male leads, is my favourite. He terrifies me, drives me wild and he's addictive. I often found myself begging alongside Lucia for his approval.
This brings me to why I dropped half a star. When Lucia starts to show more of her strength and her character begins to develop, I had hoped that Victor would soften, just a little.
Don't get me wrong, him because he's practically soulless and he doesn't give anything away. But with this book I found myself wishing he'd offer Lucia just a hint and what was behind the cold mask. A tiny thread of respect or maybe even a hint at affection outside of the manipulation.
Nevertheless, I cant wait to read the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2022
And tame her they do
This book contains extremely dark themes, and may not be for you, please head to the authors website for the full list of triggers, readers discretion advised.
The one thing that Lucia wanted was her freedom, her freedom to make her own choices, to have her voice heard, to belong, to be part of a team, but Victor’s psychological machinations on Lucia’s mental state may be his undoing.
Victor uses Lucia to his advantage, playing her like a piece on a chessboard, to help wheedle out those that would likely betray him and his counterparts, only when it suits him, rendering her useless when she’s of no use to him, but to his own disbelief Lucia pits herself against his men, men who took advantage of her, of their own free will, comes out victoriously.
These men are no short of being possessive, wicked and depraved, as Lucia continues to endure abject submission, degradation, humiliation, and sensory deprivation, even though she gave herself to them freely, through it all she continues to show her fiery strength and determination, she fights them at every turn, her resolve never wavering.
Riding on a high, Lucia coaxed Saint out of his shell, took him past his comfort zone, having him exploring another side of himself, one he doesn’t feel comfortable exploring, praising him, all the whilst Victor watches him give to his basest needs, changing them all on a fundamental level.
But Lucia makes a fatal mistake, having stepped out of line by speaking out, and when she attempts to seek help from Angelo and Saint, it costs her severely, physically, psychological, mentally and emotionally. They begin to question Victor’s motives, believing that Lucia has learnt her lesson, saying that he’s gone too far. Victor doesn’t like disloyalty and puts them in there place, causing a discord between all three.
But what they don’t realise is that Lucia has been plotting her escape, she puts her plan into action, Angelo and Saint do notice that her behaviour is off, only giving off subtle hints, only when she doesn’t return, do they learn what has happened to Victor, do they piece everything together and when they work out that she played them all, furthermore disclosing bits of information that she gained, aiding her escape, do they begin to point fingers at each other, neither three tasking any responsibility for the predicament they put themselves in, for they are all at fault for where they are and how thing’s ended, for the end is only the beginning for Lucia, for she makes the ultimate sacrifice, by returning home to her father and subsequently Pavone.
This story is told from different POV, it will take you on a wild ride, having you turn page after page. This book had me from beginning to end, it told a telling story, this author definitely knows how to write.
This book has it all slow burn dark romance, alpha dominant men, a woman who gives as good as she gets, dark humour, mafia related themes, roller coaster of emotions, drama, action, loyalty, jealousy, madness, mayhem, intrigue, revenge, vengeance, violence, murder, adrenaline seeking suspense, twists, turns, truths.
Reading this story, it enables the readers to really connect with the characters, and as the story unfolds the readers see the development and growth from the characters singularly and together.
And those MM, MF, MFM and MFMM s*x scenes, including those BDSM elements were steamy, yet sensual, dirty, hot, intense, physical, provocative, it had all the angry angst, hate, pleasure and passion one would except. Victor, Angelo and Saint take what they want without consequence, each giving Lucia the pain and pleasure she deserve, their possessive and obsessive need for control and dominance, it was off the charts and had all of the feels.
Onto book three ….
This book contains extremely dark themes, and may not be for you, please head to the authors website for the full list of triggers, readers discretion advised.
The one thing that Lucia wanted was her freedom, her freedom to make her own choices, to have her voice heard, to belong, to be part of a team, but Victor’s psychological machinations on Lucia’s mental state may be his undoing.
Victor uses Lucia to his advantage, playing her like a piece on a chessboard, to help wheedle out those that would likely betray him and his counterparts, only when it suits him, rendering her useless when she’s of no use to him, but to his own disbelief Lucia pits herself against his men, men who took advantage of her, of their own free will, comes out victoriously.
These men are no short of being possessive, wicked and depraved, as Lucia continues to endure abject submission, degradation, humiliation, and sensory deprivation, even though she gave herself to them freely, through it all she continues to show her fiery strength and determination, she fights them at every turn, her resolve never wavering.
Riding on a high, Lucia coaxed Saint out of his shell, took him past his comfort zone, having him exploring another side of himself, one he doesn’t feel comfortable exploring, praising him, all the whilst Victor watches him give to his basest needs, changing them all on a fundamental level.
But Lucia makes a fatal mistake, having stepped out of line by speaking out, and when she attempts to seek help from Angelo and Saint, it costs her severely, physically, psychological, mentally and emotionally. They begin to question Victor’s motives, believing that Lucia has learnt her lesson, saying that he’s gone too far. Victor doesn’t like disloyalty and puts them in there place, causing a discord between all three.
But what they don’t realise is that Lucia has been plotting her escape, she puts her plan into action, Angelo and Saint do notice that her behaviour is off, only giving off subtle hints, only when she doesn’t return, do they learn what has happened to Victor, do they piece everything together and when they work out that she played them all, furthermore disclosing bits of information that she gained, aiding her escape, do they begin to point fingers at each other, neither three tasking any responsibility for the predicament they put themselves in, for they are all at fault for where they are and how thing’s ended, for the end is only the beginning for Lucia, for she makes the ultimate sacrifice, by returning home to her father and subsequently Pavone.
This story is told from different POV, it will take you on a wild ride, having you turn page after page. This book had me from beginning to end, it told a telling story, this author definitely knows how to write.
This book has it all slow burn dark romance, alpha dominant men, a woman who gives as good as she gets, dark humour, mafia related themes, roller coaster of emotions, drama, action, loyalty, jealousy, madness, mayhem, intrigue, revenge, vengeance, violence, murder, adrenaline seeking suspense, twists, turns, truths.
Reading this story, it enables the readers to really connect with the characters, and as the story unfolds the readers see the development and growth from the characters singularly and together.
And those MM, MF, MFM and MFMM s*x scenes, including those BDSM elements were steamy, yet sensual, dirty, hot, intense, physical, provocative, it had all the angry angst, hate, pleasure and passion one would except. Victor, Angelo and Saint take what they want without consequence, each giving Lucia the pain and pleasure she deserve, their possessive and obsessive need for control and dominance, it was off the charts and had all of the feels.
Onto book three ….
December 4, 2025
Taming Lucia, the second installment in the dark romance trilogy by Raissa Donovan and Addison Wolf, picks up immediately where the previous book left off, plunging readers back into a world of moral ambiguity and power struggles. Narrated by the impressive ensemble cast of TJ Clark, Evan Parker, Branden Davis-Butler, and Kayden Lukakis, the audiobook delivers a raw, gritty experience that manages to be even darker than its predecessor.
The central tension of the novel revolves around a broken promise. At the conclusion of the first book, Lucia secured a vow from Victor that she would be a partner in their mafia organization, working alongside them to take down her father and her fiancé, Pavone. However, the reality she faces is far more humiliating. Instead of a seat at the table, Lucia finds herself treated as a pet or mere arm candy, excluded from the actual operations even as the organization faces gruesome threats in the form of delivered body parts. The narrative poses the lingering question: is she a partner, or is she expendable?
What makes this installment compelling is seeing Lucia refuse to be a doormat. While she initially attempts to learn the ropes quietly, gaining some respect from the guards, her emotions eventually lead to a harsh punishment from Victor that results in public humiliation. Rather than breaking, this fuels a shift in Lucia. It is fascinating to watch her regain a sense of agency by exploiting the men’s weaknesses and manipulating them using Victor’s own tactics—a game Victor recognizes but strangely allows to continue. She evolves from a victim into a calculated player, proving she is strong enough to face whatever is thrown at her.
The dynamic with the men—Victor, Angelo, and Saint—is complex, infuriating, and deeply erotically charged. Victor remains the ruthless leader, pushing punishments to limits that eventually cause even Angelo and Saint to intervene. Saint is portrayed as a troubled soul who surprisingly responds to Lucia’s firm hand, while Angelo begins to have a belated epiphany that he knows almost nothing about Lucia as a human being. Readers should be prepared that this is not a traditional romance; it is heavy on smut and power plays, with a distinct lack of emotional tenderness for much of the story. It is only toward the end, following a punishment that crosses a line, that the men attempt to rectify their behavior with a date night to prove they care.
The pacing is incredibly fast, rushing toward a climax where that seemingly reparative night out goes wrong when Lucia disappears in the bathroom, leading to a jaw-dropping cliffhanger. The narration elevates the material significantly, with the four voice actors distinctively bringing the tension and personality of each character to life, making the heat and the violence feel visceral. Despite some minor world-building frustrations regarding vague settings and character ages, Taming Lucia is a thrilling, emotionally charged bridge to the final book that leaves the listener desperate to see if Lucia will finally solidify her place as a partner or if she is destined to remain a pawn.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The central tension of the novel revolves around a broken promise. At the conclusion of the first book, Lucia secured a vow from Victor that she would be a partner in their mafia organization, working alongside them to take down her father and her fiancé, Pavone. However, the reality she faces is far more humiliating. Instead of a seat at the table, Lucia finds herself treated as a pet or mere arm candy, excluded from the actual operations even as the organization faces gruesome threats in the form of delivered body parts. The narrative poses the lingering question: is she a partner, or is she expendable?
What makes this installment compelling is seeing Lucia refuse to be a doormat. While she initially attempts to learn the ropes quietly, gaining some respect from the guards, her emotions eventually lead to a harsh punishment from Victor that results in public humiliation. Rather than breaking, this fuels a shift in Lucia. It is fascinating to watch her regain a sense of agency by exploiting the men’s weaknesses and manipulating them using Victor’s own tactics—a game Victor recognizes but strangely allows to continue. She evolves from a victim into a calculated player, proving she is strong enough to face whatever is thrown at her.
The dynamic with the men—Victor, Angelo, and Saint—is complex, infuriating, and deeply erotically charged. Victor remains the ruthless leader, pushing punishments to limits that eventually cause even Angelo and Saint to intervene. Saint is portrayed as a troubled soul who surprisingly responds to Lucia’s firm hand, while Angelo begins to have a belated epiphany that he knows almost nothing about Lucia as a human being. Readers should be prepared that this is not a traditional romance; it is heavy on smut and power plays, with a distinct lack of emotional tenderness for much of the story. It is only toward the end, following a punishment that crosses a line, that the men attempt to rectify their behavior with a date night to prove they care.
The pacing is incredibly fast, rushing toward a climax where that seemingly reparative night out goes wrong when Lucia disappears in the bathroom, leading to a jaw-dropping cliffhanger. The narration elevates the material significantly, with the four voice actors distinctively bringing the tension and personality of each character to life, making the heat and the violence feel visceral. Despite some minor world-building frustrations regarding vague settings and character ages, Taming Lucia is a thrilling, emotionally charged bridge to the final book that leaves the listener desperate to see if Lucia will finally solidify her place as a partner or if she is destined to remain a pawn.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 9, 2024
I was really hoping for Lucia to take that gun and run at the of last book, but… she didn‘t.
Then I was hoping for the guys to appreciate her a little more and for their relationship to develop after she saved Victor‘s ass, but… they didn‘t. In book 2 we just get more of the same. Lucia is forced into pretty much every sexual interaction by being threatened with something worse. It‘s like the authors know no sane person could consent to these guys after what they‘ve done and without them showing a hint of remorse. So, since they need the spicy scenes to happen, they give our heroine a neat excuse and push those scenes from non-con to dub-con. There is no romance between the characters, the book pretty much moves from one kinky scene to the next, some on the lighter side next some as dark as I’ve ever read. Comparing to the Royals of Forsyth (the obvious comparison I guess), by the end of the second book, we can usually sense some tender feelings between the characters (mutually!), though they still hurt each other. This reads more like a chain of humiliation and abuse of the powerless heroine, while the men delude themselves into thinking she’s into it.
I didn‘t even enjoy Saints bi-awakening since it felt stilted and unnatural. Who can be talked into anal with a guy, enjoy it and then still pretend they are not bi? Also Lucia cajoling him to do these things felt icky. I‘d have preferred him to get there himself. Since I just read Zodiac Academy, I can’t help comparing to Caleb and Seth. Saint and Angelo fall short on so many accounts.
So when Lucia *finally* decided to run, I was pretty damn happy. That’s what should’ve happened after the first book and we could’ve done without the second one altogether.
Now why did I give 3 stars if this is my review? I haven’t given up hope completely. I’m hanging in there, praying for the guys to EAT THEIR HEARTS OUT, so I can be vindicated after forcing myself through all this abuse.
P.S. After reading some reviews: Lucia is not a strong heroine to me. She lets them trample all over her and any attempts to stand up for herself are feeble and short-lived.
P.S.S. reducing the rating because I did not get what I came for in the series, which makes this book an absolute waste of my time.
Then I was hoping for the guys to appreciate her a little more and for their relationship to develop after she saved Victor‘s ass, but… they didn‘t. In book 2 we just get more of the same. Lucia is forced into pretty much every sexual interaction by being threatened with something worse. It‘s like the authors know no sane person could consent to these guys after what they‘ve done and without them showing a hint of remorse. So, since they need the spicy scenes to happen, they give our heroine a neat excuse and push those scenes from non-con to dub-con. There is no romance between the characters, the book pretty much moves from one kinky scene to the next, some on the lighter side next some as dark as I’ve ever read. Comparing to the Royals of Forsyth (the obvious comparison I guess), by the end of the second book, we can usually sense some tender feelings between the characters (mutually!), though they still hurt each other. This reads more like a chain of humiliation and abuse of the powerless heroine, while the men delude themselves into thinking she’s into it.
I didn‘t even enjoy Saints bi-awakening since it felt stilted and unnatural. Who can be talked into anal with a guy, enjoy it and then still pretend they are not bi? Also Lucia cajoling him to do these things felt icky. I‘d have preferred him to get there himself. Since I just read Zodiac Academy, I can’t help comparing to Caleb and Seth. Saint and Angelo fall short on so many accounts.
So when Lucia *finally* decided to run, I was pretty damn happy. That’s what should’ve happened after the first book and we could’ve done without the second one altogether.
Now why did I give 3 stars if this is my review? I haven’t given up hope completely. I’m hanging in there, praying for the guys to EAT THEIR HEARTS OUT, so I can be vindicated after forcing myself through all this abuse.
P.S. After reading some reviews: Lucia is not a strong heroine to me. She lets them trample all over her and any attempts to stand up for herself are feeble and short-lived.
P.S.S. reducing the rating because I did not get what I came for in the series, which makes this book an absolute waste of my time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2022
Donovan & Wolf ring in the New Year with the much-anticipated second novel in the Lucia trilogy. The story opens with our put-upon heroine up in arms (or should I say...up in *arm*) about her new duties in the famiglia.
One thing I really love about *Taming* is how effortlessly it oscillates between funny and depraved (or maybe I just have a messed up sense of humor? lol).
Reader be warned, this is still a dark, dark book, even darker than the first one. The guys put Lucia through hell, but in a measured, tender sort of way rather than a snuffy sort of way. They break her down only to build her back up, and vice versa.
While there is more seggs than plot (I'm certainly not complaining), the story is nevertheless rich in characterization. We get to see so much vulnerability not just in Lucia, but in all of the gang, particularly Saint. When our leading lady flips the script on him and gives him a taste of what she's been subjected to...it's utterly delicious. "Good boy!"
It's a very insular narrative, with most of the story taking place at the gaudy mansion where they run their operation (though we do get a glimpse into the wider mafia community, offering just enough world-building to ground the story without detracting from the meatier stuff).
I think the thing I love most about *Taming Lucia*, and the whole series really, is how character-driven it is. There are definitely moments where I feel absolutely devastated for Lucia, and find myself hating the menfolk with ever fiber of my being. And then...there's the rest of the time, when I'm so intrigued and invested in all of them, the way the four of them fit together so terribly wonderfully.
Which is not unlike how Lucia herself feels. Talk about an absolute mind-f***!
The third can't come soon enough, especially with that cliffhanger!
One thing I really love about *Taming* is how effortlessly it oscillates between funny and depraved (or maybe I just have a messed up sense of humor? lol).
Reader be warned, this is still a dark, dark book, even darker than the first one. The guys put Lucia through hell, but in a measured, tender sort of way rather than a snuffy sort of way. They break her down only to build her back up, and vice versa.
While there is more seggs than plot (I'm certainly not complaining), the story is nevertheless rich in characterization. We get to see so much vulnerability not just in Lucia, but in all of the gang, particularly Saint. When our leading lady flips the script on him and gives him a taste of what she's been subjected to...it's utterly delicious. "Good boy!"
It's a very insular narrative, with most of the story taking place at the gaudy mansion where they run their operation (though we do get a glimpse into the wider mafia community, offering just enough world-building to ground the story without detracting from the meatier stuff).
I think the thing I love most about *Taming Lucia*, and the whole series really, is how character-driven it is. There are definitely moments where I feel absolutely devastated for Lucia, and find myself hating the menfolk with ever fiber of my being. And then...there's the rest of the time, when I'm so intrigued and invested in all of them, the way the four of them fit together so terribly wonderfully.
Which is not unlike how Lucia herself feels. Talk about an absolute mind-f***!
The third can't come soon enough, especially with that cliffhanger!
August 10, 2023
UGHHHHHHHHH this series is everything!!! It is so dirty and depraved but I can't help but want more from it. In my opinion, this book is even hotter than the first which got 5 spicy stars from me. In fact, this book has me wanting to read more BDSM books now after reading about some of the stuff done to Lucia in this book.
Victor is certainly a depraved asshole who seemingly doesn't care about any of the humiliations that he puts Lucia through. He's very into rope and toy play so if that's your kink, keep reading. There is one scene in particular where Lucia is made to dress in a maid's outfit and I'm not gonna lie, I was really into it even if it was really humiliating for her as a woman. Not to mention I just really love different types of sex toys and teasing in my erotica books so Victor is really high up on my list of reasons to like this series.
Angelo's romance is very violent and one scene in particular was very difficult to read but I still really like him because of all the men in this book series. I actually feel like he treats Lucia the best of all three men. I really grew to love him in the 3rd book so keep that in mind if you're still on the fence about him after this book. Plus the anal scenes with him had me just quivering. NGL Lucia is right not to trust Angelo at first but to me he becomes the hero that she needs.
I feel like most reader reviews mention how nice and sweet Saint is but to me he's the biggest asshole of the series because he won't admit that what he does to Lucia is bad. He really likes her unconscious but to me that's the worst type of noncon. Plus he's always acting like he loves Lucia but I just really don't see any type of romantic love from any of the men in this series. Saint is really just a dick that can't admit who he really is in any way, shape, or form.
Victor is certainly a depraved asshole who seemingly doesn't care about any of the humiliations that he puts Lucia through. He's very into rope and toy play so if that's your kink, keep reading. There is one scene in particular where Lucia is made to dress in a maid's outfit and I'm not gonna lie, I was really into it even if it was really humiliating for her as a woman. Not to mention I just really love different types of sex toys and teasing in my erotica books so Victor is really high up on my list of reasons to like this series.
Angelo's romance is very violent and one scene in particular was very difficult to read but I still really like him because of all the men in this book series. I actually feel like he treats Lucia the best of all three men. I really grew to love him in the 3rd book so keep that in mind if you're still on the fence about him after this book. Plus the anal scenes with him had me just quivering. NGL Lucia is right not to trust Angelo at first but to me he becomes the hero that she needs.
I feel like most reader reviews mention how nice and sweet Saint is but to me he's the biggest asshole of the series because he won't admit that what he does to Lucia is bad. He really likes her unconscious but to me that's the worst type of noncon. Plus he's always acting like he loves Lucia but I just really don't see any type of romantic love from any of the men in this series. Saint is really just a dick that can't admit who he really is in any way, shape, or form.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2021
My jaw is still on the floor. Honestly, there was not a single way for me to anticipate how this book was going to go and I am blown away by the intricate writing that went into it.
We last left Lucia as becoming a partner with Victor, Angelo and Saint. She is anything but a partner in this book and her frustration is PALPABLE. Lucia’s character is written in such a way that we feel so much of what she’s going through. For a good portion of this book, she seems to come into her own. She learns to bend a guard to her will, albeit in a very risky way. Lucia learns how to psychologically and subtly work Saint, the “softer” of the three. She even gets to stand beside Victor to control Saint and we are cheering for her the whole way. Alas, that was not to last.
Of the three, Victor is the most cagey of all. He orchestrates the utter degradation and humiliation of Lucia time and time again. Of course, Saint and Angelo are more than happy to go along with Victor’s plans. Until they’re not. I keep talking about Lucia coming into her own, but Angelo and Saint take a piece of their own as well, with Victor as the target.
I can’t even begin to get into all the reasons this book deserves more than a paltry 5 stars; my review would be too long. There are layers upon layers of plot and character development woven throughout the pages. This ends on a jaw dropping cliffhanger, so be prepared. Heed the warnings because you will be tested. But mostly, sit back and enjoy the thrill ride that is Taming Lucia.
*I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
We last left Lucia as becoming a partner with Victor, Angelo and Saint. She is anything but a partner in this book and her frustration is PALPABLE. Lucia’s character is written in such a way that we feel so much of what she’s going through. For a good portion of this book, she seems to come into her own. She learns to bend a guard to her will, albeit in a very risky way. Lucia learns how to psychologically and subtly work Saint, the “softer” of the three. She even gets to stand beside Victor to control Saint and we are cheering for her the whole way. Alas, that was not to last.
Of the three, Victor is the most cagey of all. He orchestrates the utter degradation and humiliation of Lucia time and time again. Of course, Saint and Angelo are more than happy to go along with Victor’s plans. Until they’re not. I keep talking about Lucia coming into her own, but Angelo and Saint take a piece of their own as well, with Victor as the target.
I can’t even begin to get into all the reasons this book deserves more than a paltry 5 stars; my review would be too long. There are layers upon layers of plot and character development woven throughout the pages. This ends on a jaw dropping cliffhanger, so be prepared. Heed the warnings because you will be tested. But mostly, sit back and enjoy the thrill ride that is Taming Lucia.
*I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
October 18, 2025
DNFed at 30%. I can handle pitch dark stuff. I can handle extreme violence. I am just so pissed at the MMCs to continue. Nothing I'd read in this book is sexy, it is just dehumanizing and humiliating for power play.
I did like book 1 a lot at 4 stars, but this book had none of the good traits from it. The characters show zero remorse and zero development despite the ending of book 1 which gave us hope. There is no aftercare, there is no hurt and comfort here, just torture for the sake of torture. Mind games for fun. And I dislike it most when its public humiliation, it truly makes the heroine feel like a Fcktoy and an object. It doesn't have the hurt and comfort and romantic element to be considered dark romance, nor is it hot enough to be deemed erotic horror. It achieves nothing but disgusts me and makes me loath the MMCs. Such a disappointing experience when I liked book 1 so much.
Like I have loved morally gray heroes, who do even more crazy shit to the heroine, but they change, they grow to care about her in a way, or show us there is a slight bit of goodness in them, not this book. So this isn't a good mindfuck where I am questioning my morals or that the MMCs have complicated and conflicting emotions towards the heroine, this is just irredeemable characters doing stuff that's not even my kink.
After reading reviews from this book and the next, it is clear I won't like the rest of series and that there is no way to come back from this. Better not to waste my time with it. Such a shame, the series had so much potential only to flop the next two books.
I did like book 1 a lot at 4 stars, but this book had none of the good traits from it. The characters show zero remorse and zero development despite the ending of book 1 which gave us hope. There is no aftercare, there is no hurt and comfort here, just torture for the sake of torture. Mind games for fun. And I dislike it most when its public humiliation, it truly makes the heroine feel like a Fcktoy and an object. It doesn't have the hurt and comfort and romantic element to be considered dark romance, nor is it hot enough to be deemed erotic horror. It achieves nothing but disgusts me and makes me loath the MMCs. Such a disappointing experience when I liked book 1 so much.
Like I have loved morally gray heroes, who do even more crazy shit to the heroine, but they change, they grow to care about her in a way, or show us there is a slight bit of goodness in them, not this book. So this isn't a good mindfuck where I am questioning my morals or that the MMCs have complicated and conflicting emotions towards the heroine, this is just irredeemable characters doing stuff that's not even my kink.
After reading reviews from this book and the next, it is clear I won't like the rest of series and that there is no way to come back from this. Better not to waste my time with it. Such a shame, the series had so much potential only to flop the next two books.
January 1, 2022
I received an Arc for my honest opinion of this book. This review is my own opinions, please bear that in mind when reading!!
Taming Lucia picks up where we left in book one. I was both excited and nervous for book two because I wanted so badly to read more from these authors and see the story grow but I also needed to see something more from Lucia, there is nothing more I can’t stand in a book than a woman who doesn’t come to her own sense and know what she is worth. I was so glad when I saw just that!! Lucia finds her feet, she learns that she can have what she wants and how to get it, she learns the power she has over these men even if she does give them the illusion that they hold all the cards.
It was amazing to see all three guys develop too. While we learn some about them in book one, book two let’s the readers in deeper and while they may make me want to rip my hair out at times and slap them with a hardback book in the face, it’s worth it.
There are triggers so do pay attention to the trigger warnings. Book two gets darker than book one, but if you are fine with the triggers then I would 100% recommend this series. The world, the characters, the storyline and backstory told by these incredibly talented writers is unique and worth every star I’ve given and more.
Taming Lucia picks up where we left in book one. I was both excited and nervous for book two because I wanted so badly to read more from these authors and see the story grow but I also needed to see something more from Lucia, there is nothing more I can’t stand in a book than a woman who doesn’t come to her own sense and know what she is worth. I was so glad when I saw just that!! Lucia finds her feet, she learns that she can have what she wants and how to get it, she learns the power she has over these men even if she does give them the illusion that they hold all the cards.
It was amazing to see all three guys develop too. While we learn some about them in book one, book two let’s the readers in deeper and while they may make me want to rip my hair out at times and slap them with a hardback book in the face, it’s worth it.
There are triggers so do pay attention to the trigger warnings. Book two gets darker than book one, but if you are fine with the triggers then I would 100% recommend this series. The world, the characters, the storyline and backstory told by these incredibly talented writers is unique and worth every star I’ve given and more.
January 26, 2022
Victor, Angel and Saint 🔥
“𝑅𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉! 𝐼’𝓂 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝑔𝑜𝑜𝒹 𝑜𝓃𝑒, 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓃𝒾𝒸𝑒 𝑜𝓃𝑒, 𝒷𝑒𝒸𝒶𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝐼’𝓂 𝓃𝑜𝓉 𝒶 𝓋𝒾𝑜𝓁𝑒𝓃𝓉 𝓅𝓈𝓎𝒸𝒽𝑜 𝓁𝒾𝓀𝑒 𝒜𝓃𝑔𝑒𝓁 𝑜𝓇 𝓈𝑜𝓂𝑒 𝒾𝓃 𝒸𝑜𝓃𝓉𝓇𝑜𝓁, 𝒹𝑜𝓂𝒾𝓃𝒶𝓃𝓉 𝒻𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓀 𝓁𝒾𝓀𝑒 𝒱𝒾𝒸𝓉𝑜𝓇.”
Poor Saint! You have to feel for him. Out of the three, Saint’s sitting at the bottom of the pack, with his dressing, overthinking everything. At least as he said “he’s not going to lock me up in a ******* trunk.” Quick to defend necro vs somnophilia too. Out of the three mc’s I tend to enjoy Saint more than Victor or Angel. They have three entirely different personalities, hard to achieve. Angel, makes me wonder where is loyalty is sometimes.
Joking aside, love seeing Lucia gradually try to find her place.
“𝐻𝑒𝓇 𝒶𝒷𝒾𝓁𝒾𝓉𝓎 𝓉𝑜 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹 𝒶 𝓈𝒾𝓉𝓊𝒶𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓈𝒶𝓎 𝒿𝓊𝓈𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓇𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝒹𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝑔𝑒𝓉 𝓈𝑜𝓂𝑒𝒷𝑜𝒹𝓎 𝓉𝑜 𝒷𝑒𝓃𝒹, 𝓉𝒽𝑜𝓊𝑔𝒽, 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉’𝓈 𝓈𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒱𝒾𝒸𝓉𝑜𝓇 𝓌𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹 𝒶𝒹𝓂𝒾𝓇𝑒.”
Lucia has skills, she’s smart and wants to be seen as a partner in their relationship, not just a toy or trophy. Hard won when they continue to degrade her. Asserting herself in increments, only to have power removed again—I suspect they’ll all suffer after pushing her too far.
Second in the trilogy, ending with a cliffhanger, it’s not as fast paced as book one. It sets the scene for the finale perfectly.
Read the sample/warning. This might not be your usual read.
“𝑅𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉! 𝐼’𝓂 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝑔𝑜𝑜𝒹 𝑜𝓃𝑒, 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓃𝒾𝒸𝑒 𝑜𝓃𝑒, 𝒷𝑒𝒸𝒶𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝐼’𝓂 𝓃𝑜𝓉 𝒶 𝓋𝒾𝑜𝓁𝑒𝓃𝓉 𝓅𝓈𝓎𝒸𝒽𝑜 𝓁𝒾𝓀𝑒 𝒜𝓃𝑔𝑒𝓁 𝑜𝓇 𝓈𝑜𝓂𝑒 𝒾𝓃 𝒸𝑜𝓃𝓉𝓇𝑜𝓁, 𝒹𝑜𝓂𝒾𝓃𝒶𝓃𝓉 𝒻𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓀 𝓁𝒾𝓀𝑒 𝒱𝒾𝒸𝓉𝑜𝓇.”
Poor Saint! You have to feel for him. Out of the three, Saint’s sitting at the bottom of the pack, with his dressing, overthinking everything. At least as he said “he’s not going to lock me up in a ******* trunk.” Quick to defend necro vs somnophilia too. Out of the three mc’s I tend to enjoy Saint more than Victor or Angel. They have three entirely different personalities, hard to achieve. Angel, makes me wonder where is loyalty is sometimes.
Joking aside, love seeing Lucia gradually try to find her place.
“𝐻𝑒𝓇 𝒶𝒷𝒾𝓁𝒾𝓉𝓎 𝓉𝑜 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹 𝒶 𝓈𝒾𝓉𝓊𝒶𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓈𝒶𝓎 𝒿𝓊𝓈𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓇𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝒹𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝑔𝑒𝓉 𝓈𝑜𝓂𝑒𝒷𝑜𝒹𝓎 𝓉𝑜 𝒷𝑒𝓃𝒹, 𝓉𝒽𝑜𝓊𝑔𝒽, 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉’𝓈 𝓈𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒱𝒾𝒸𝓉𝑜𝓇 𝓌𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹 𝒶𝒹𝓂𝒾𝓇𝑒.”
Lucia has skills, she’s smart and wants to be seen as a partner in their relationship, not just a toy or trophy. Hard won when they continue to degrade her. Asserting herself in increments, only to have power removed again—I suspect they’ll all suffer after pushing her too far.
Second in the trilogy, ending with a cliffhanger, it’s not as fast paced as book one. It sets the scene for the finale perfectly.
Read the sample/warning. This might not be your usual read.
February 1, 2022
Wow! Honestly, I don't know where to start, my emotional are all over the place but, I can tell you I have been shaking throughout the entire book.
Loved the characters they were so, so dark but, then you had Saint that was a bit softer and kinder.I have real a lot of dark romances in my time but, this one was the darkest, I found myself uneasy and on edge the whole time.
The story was suspenseful, and it got more intense when body parts start showing up. A page turner, that is what this story was.
Lucia though, was our favorite character, we really felt bad for her and how these men treated her. We loved when she asserted herself and was feisty, and she never how to manipulate like the masters.
Overall, this was one compelling read filled with a lot of darkness and one intense read. The sex scenes were intense and some might call them hot. I will say this story and its characters are not for the faint of heart, and this is not a story for you if you have triggers. Wow! What and ending, we don't know what to say other than we are still reeling hours later after putting the book down.
Loved the characters they were so, so dark but, then you had Saint that was a bit softer and kinder.I have real a lot of dark romances in my time but, this one was the darkest, I found myself uneasy and on edge the whole time.
The story was suspenseful, and it got more intense when body parts start showing up. A page turner, that is what this story was.
Lucia though, was our favorite character, we really felt bad for her and how these men treated her. We loved when she asserted herself and was feisty, and she never how to manipulate like the masters.
Overall, this was one compelling read filled with a lot of darkness and one intense read. The sex scenes were intense and some might call them hot. I will say this story and its characters are not for the faint of heart, and this is not a story for you if you have triggers. Wow! What and ending, we don't know what to say other than we are still reeling hours later after putting the book down.
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