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Made #8
Cherished Union
When the woman he cherishes above all else has been hurt… his inner demons come out to play.
Adelina Gallo’s life changed in the blink of an eye. She always knew that she’d be used to further her family’s connections.
Hayden Gallagher is portrayed as a monster. Someone that Adelina should be fearful of.
But Ade knows differently, she’s seen a side to him that not many do and she’ll do anything to keep the man she’s falling head over heels for from danger.
Even if it means doing things she never thought she would do.
Hayden Gallagher has made more mistakes than he can count. His actions have led to some devastating times. But the moment he married Adelina Gallo he thought it was a second chance.
His wife is soft, sweet, and pure. She’s everything that he’s not, and he cherishes her for it. He vows to do everything in his power to protect her.
But when his enemies circle it’s more than just his life on the line.
Can Hayden and Adelina survive the war that’s coming, or will they fall just like so many others have?
Adelina Gallo’s life changed in the blink of an eye. She always knew that she’d be used to further her family’s connections.
Hayden Gallagher is portrayed as a monster. Someone that Adelina should be fearful of.
But Ade knows differently, she’s seen a side to him that not many do and she’ll do anything to keep the man she’s falling head over heels for from danger.
Even if it means doing things she never thought she would do.
Hayden Gallagher has made more mistakes than he can count. His actions have led to some devastating times. But the moment he married Adelina Gallo he thought it was a second chance.
His wife is soft, sweet, and pure. She’s everything that he’s not, and he cherishes her for it. He vows to do everything in his power to protect her.
But when his enemies circle it’s more than just his life on the line.
Can Hayden and Adelina survive the war that’s coming, or will they fall just like so many others have?
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 25, 2022
98 people are currently reading
254 people want to read
About the author
Brooke Summers
57 books705 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Brooke Summers is a Mafia Romance author and is best known for her Made Series.
Brooke lives on the West Coast of Ireland with her daughter and husband where her stories come to life.
Brooke is represented by Nikki Groom at SBR Media.
Brooke lives on the West Coast of Ireland with her daughter and husband where her stories come to life.
Brooke is represented by Nikki Groom at SBR Media.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
August 19, 2022
CHERISHED UNION is the eighth instalment in Brooke Summers’ contemporary adult MADE dark, erotic, Mafia romance series. This is thirty year old Hayden Gallagher, and twenty-five year old Adelina Gallo’s story line. CHERISHED UNION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
NOTE: Some of the events of CHERISHED UNION cross over with, and run parallel to some of the events of book seven EXPLOSIVE UNION.
WARNING: Due the to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from several first person perspectives including Hayden and Adelina, CHERISHED UNION focuses on the arranged marriage between thirty year old Hayden Gallagher and twenty-five year old Adelina Gallo. In an effort to secure more power in the criminal underworld, the Gallagher and Gallo families merged with the marriage of Rocco Gallo and Jade Gallagher (Explosive Union), and Hayden and Adelina but after their first meeting life for Adelina begins to spiral out of control, and the Gallagher family must rally the proverbial troops in an effort to protect our story line heroine, and her thirteen year old sister Vivi. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Hayden and Adelina, and the potential fall-out as the Gallagher family must strike first before they lose everyone they love.
Meanwhile the ongoing war with the Masters, a rival crime family, continues to threaten the lives of the Gallagher family, and in this, Hayden, his siblings and their father enact a plan to stop the war, once and for all.
Adelina Gallo is an innocent and has been groomed to be the perfect mobster wife but Adelina and her sister Vivi have been ignored and relegated to the background all of their lives, and in this, Adelina’s brothers open their eyes to the truth about their family, and the dark secrets hidden behind the ‘hallowed’ walls. Hayden Gallagher grew up in a loving family but has always known his world would be a life of crime. Killing and torture is nothing knew or foreign to our story line hero but when his wife continues to be on the receiving end of abuse and attacks, Hayden knows that to protect Adelina, the ‘enemy’ will have to be taken out.
The relationship between Hayden and Adelina is an arranged marriage of which neither one is happy or expecting a happily ever after but Hayden knows immediately that Adelina is the woman to call to his heart, a heart he had always thought deadly and cold. Hayden’s reputation precedes his introduction to our story line heroine, and in this Adelina fears for her safety whether with her family or with the man who has sworn to protect her. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and charismatic secondary and supporting characters including both Hayden and Adelina’s siblings and their parents. The requisite evil has many faces-not everyone will survive.
CHERISHED UNION is a story of family and relationships, abuse, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, loss and grief, acceptance and love. The premise is heart breaking, emotional and dark; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are dynamic, determined and desperate.
www.thereadingcafe.com
NOTE: Some of the events of CHERISHED UNION cross over with, and run parallel to some of the events of book seven EXPLOSIVE UNION.
WARNING: Due the to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from several first person perspectives including Hayden and Adelina, CHERISHED UNION focuses on the arranged marriage between thirty year old Hayden Gallagher and twenty-five year old Adelina Gallo. In an effort to secure more power in the criminal underworld, the Gallagher and Gallo families merged with the marriage of Rocco Gallo and Jade Gallagher (Explosive Union), and Hayden and Adelina but after their first meeting life for Adelina begins to spiral out of control, and the Gallagher family must rally the proverbial troops in an effort to protect our story line heroine, and her thirteen year old sister Vivi. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Hayden and Adelina, and the potential fall-out as the Gallagher family must strike first before they lose everyone they love.
Meanwhile the ongoing war with the Masters, a rival crime family, continues to threaten the lives of the Gallagher family, and in this, Hayden, his siblings and their father enact a plan to stop the war, once and for all.
Adelina Gallo is an innocent and has been groomed to be the perfect mobster wife but Adelina and her sister Vivi have been ignored and relegated to the background all of their lives, and in this, Adelina’s brothers open their eyes to the truth about their family, and the dark secrets hidden behind the ‘hallowed’ walls. Hayden Gallagher grew up in a loving family but has always known his world would be a life of crime. Killing and torture is nothing knew or foreign to our story line hero but when his wife continues to be on the receiving end of abuse and attacks, Hayden knows that to protect Adelina, the ‘enemy’ will have to be taken out.
The relationship between Hayden and Adelina is an arranged marriage of which neither one is happy or expecting a happily ever after but Hayden knows immediately that Adelina is the woman to call to his heart, a heart he had always thought deadly and cold. Hayden’s reputation precedes his introduction to our story line heroine, and in this Adelina fears for her safety whether with her family or with the man who has sworn to protect her. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and charismatic secondary and supporting characters including both Hayden and Adelina’s siblings and their parents. The requisite evil has many faces-not everyone will survive.
CHERISHED UNION is a story of family and relationships, abuse, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, loss and grief, acceptance and love. The premise is heart breaking, emotional and dark; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are dynamic, determined and desperate.
www.thereadingcafe.com
August 24, 2022
This is the 8th book in this amazing series. Adeline is the oldest daughter in her family, and she was brought up being groomed to become the docile and perfect mafia wife, as she always knew she would enter an arranged marriage to merge the Italian and Irish mafia families. Hayden may portray himself as a monster, but Ade sees a side of him that not many do. This is a well written story which is fast paced, dark, raw, gritty, and intriguing, with family, danger, suspense, action, violence, emotions, humor, loyalty, heartbreak, guilt, tension, and leads to a steamy romance which is a compelling page turner.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 22, 2022
Hayden is still beating himself up for everything that has happened in the past. Then he has his own up coming nuptials to go through with.
Adeline has always known she would have an arranged marriage. She knows Hayden has reputation, but nothing can be as bad as things have been.
Can these two troubled characters find happiness?
This story was packed with action and suspense. I loved every minute! I was so pleased Hayden’s story, followed Jade’s, especially after the ending of the previous book.
Adeline has always known she would have an arranged marriage. She knows Hayden has reputation, but nothing can be as bad as things have been.
Can these two troubled characters find happiness?
This story was packed with action and suspense. I loved every minute! I was so pleased Hayden’s story, followed Jade’s, especially after the ending of the previous book.
September 26, 2022
Cherished Union was a wonderful addition to the Made series. I'm still reeling over two deaths that occur in the book, one a new character and another whose been around since book 1. This book pulled at the heartstrings but also brought out the vindictive side of me. Hero Hayden may be known as the Assassin, someone to be feared and who will probably be the last thing you see before dying, but the last thing he'll do is hurt a woman, particularly his woman. After being betrothed to the daughter of the Italian mob, Hayden is not happy but will do his duty. However even before being married, Hayden loses his shit more than once over his fiancee being hurt. His protective and obsessive side go into overdrive and the last thing he'll let happen is anyone hurt his family. Unfortunately this book does not go easy on Hayden or Adelina. Both are put through the ringer more than once and while it's a struggle getting back up, they manage. Coming out on top will not be easy and they'll have to lean on each other more than most. Adelina may have been raised in the family but she's always been revered only for her looks and as a pawn in a larger game. Luckily Hayden goes out of his way to be everything she needs and be the support she's never received from her family. At this point I don't even care whose story is left, I'm locked in and I can't wait for the next one! But still moment of silence for the two characters lost in the book, took me by surprise and I'm still not handling it well :(
August 16, 2022
Cherished Union is the eighth book in the Made series by Brooke Summers. Although in theory you could read this story on its own and it would make sense I would recommend reading the whole series as the characters and books are interconnected. There are back stories galore where the other characters are concerned and it would definitely enhance the reading experience so you get the full picture of the whole Gallagher/Bianchi/ Gallo family dynamics/ history.
Just like the other stories in this series I couldn’t put this book down, it was fast paced and the chemistry between Ade and Hayden fairly sizzled off the page. There was lots of action but also gut wrenching heartbreak.
Hayden Gallagher is well and truly enmeshed in his family’s business and has been training to be a pivotal player from a young age and Hayden has quite the reputation. He’s known as the Assassin in the cage not caring if his opponents are alive, dead or incapacitated at the end of the fight.
He’s now been made Underboss of Chicago and whilst this is something he’s always been working towards it’s clear Hayden feels tremendous guilt at how he’s got there. While Hayden carried on with his life his sister Jade took the fall and went to prison for something Hayden did. For a man who values his family above all else the horrors Jade endured in his name weigh heavily on him.
To strengthen his family it’s been arranged that he would marry Adelina (Ade) Gallo. Hayden really doesn’t want to marry but his loyalty is with his family and will do anything to further their cause.
Adelina is the oldest daughter of the Gallo family and is sister to Rocco Jade’s husband. It’s fair to say that Adelina whole life has been geared to securing a husband who will strengthen the Gallo Family and she has been groomed to be the perfect wife. Unfortunately all is not what it seems in the Gallo family with Adelina bearing the brunt of her fathers temper suffering horrendous physical abuse at his hands unbeknownst to her brothers. Until things go to far and Adelina is lucky to survive, she and her younger sister Vivi manage to escape their parents with Hayden welcoming not only Adelina into his family but taking on Vivi as well.
Whilst Adelina has been raised to be quite the docile Italian Mafia woman she is anything but seeking to educate herself rather than just be just the pretty face her parents see her as. Adelina has been brought up to respect and honour her family but she knows her own mind and with Hayden by her side she is confident in her abilities and they are quite the team.
It’s clear that Hayden will do anything to protect those he loves and boy does he love Adelina. He was definitely not expecting to have feelings for his wife who has been no more than a pawn in her family’s business but she’s the one pure thing in his dark world and he loves and cherishes her above all else. While initially scared of her new situation I loved how Adelina embraced and ran with everything thrown at her and she seemed to go from strength to strength that was until the world was collapsing around them. Adelina’s reaction to this was very real and nuanced with how she dealt with the devastating aftermath and managed not only her grief but her new normal. She’s always been the pretty face but now she sees herself as damaged even though those around her see a strong capable woman.
With enemies close at hand looking for revenge this story has so many twists and turns as well as the ultimate heartbreak. I mean it was absolutely heart wrenching. People have been killed off in the previous books but this one really took my breath away. The reaction to this took this story to another level. Ultimately Hayden and Ade need to overcome all of the obstacles thrown at them. Be it danger from rival families as well as Adelina’s own parents, this book definitely does not disappoint. It’s one emotional ride full of family drama, intrigue, grief, revenge and also unexpected friendships. With a family who will stop at nothing to protect each other and those they love I would highly recommend this and all the stories within the Made series. The characters are well rounded with a gripping storyline which hooks in right from the beginning.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Just like the other stories in this series I couldn’t put this book down, it was fast paced and the chemistry between Ade and Hayden fairly sizzled off the page. There was lots of action but also gut wrenching heartbreak.
Hayden Gallagher is well and truly enmeshed in his family’s business and has been training to be a pivotal player from a young age and Hayden has quite the reputation. He’s known as the Assassin in the cage not caring if his opponents are alive, dead or incapacitated at the end of the fight.
He’s now been made Underboss of Chicago and whilst this is something he’s always been working towards it’s clear Hayden feels tremendous guilt at how he’s got there. While Hayden carried on with his life his sister Jade took the fall and went to prison for something Hayden did. For a man who values his family above all else the horrors Jade endured in his name weigh heavily on him.
To strengthen his family it’s been arranged that he would marry Adelina (Ade) Gallo. Hayden really doesn’t want to marry but his loyalty is with his family and will do anything to further their cause.
Adelina is the oldest daughter of the Gallo family and is sister to Rocco Jade’s husband. It’s fair to say that Adelina whole life has been geared to securing a husband who will strengthen the Gallo Family and she has been groomed to be the perfect wife. Unfortunately all is not what it seems in the Gallo family with Adelina bearing the brunt of her fathers temper suffering horrendous physical abuse at his hands unbeknownst to her brothers. Until things go to far and Adelina is lucky to survive, she and her younger sister Vivi manage to escape their parents with Hayden welcoming not only Adelina into his family but taking on Vivi as well.
Whilst Adelina has been raised to be quite the docile Italian Mafia woman she is anything but seeking to educate herself rather than just be just the pretty face her parents see her as. Adelina has been brought up to respect and honour her family but she knows her own mind and with Hayden by her side she is confident in her abilities and they are quite the team.
It’s clear that Hayden will do anything to protect those he loves and boy does he love Adelina. He was definitely not expecting to have feelings for his wife who has been no more than a pawn in her family’s business but she’s the one pure thing in his dark world and he loves and cherishes her above all else. While initially scared of her new situation I loved how Adelina embraced and ran with everything thrown at her and she seemed to go from strength to strength that was until the world was collapsing around them. Adelina’s reaction to this was very real and nuanced with how she dealt with the devastating aftermath and managed not only her grief but her new normal. She’s always been the pretty face but now she sees herself as damaged even though those around her see a strong capable woman.
With enemies close at hand looking for revenge this story has so many twists and turns as well as the ultimate heartbreak. I mean it was absolutely heart wrenching. People have been killed off in the previous books but this one really took my breath away. The reaction to this took this story to another level. Ultimately Hayden and Ade need to overcome all of the obstacles thrown at them. Be it danger from rival families as well as Adelina’s own parents, this book definitely does not disappoint. It’s one emotional ride full of family drama, intrigue, grief, revenge and also unexpected friendships. With a family who will stop at nothing to protect each other and those they love I would highly recommend this and all the stories within the Made series. The characters are well rounded with a gripping storyline which hooks in right from the beginning.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 19, 2022
This book is part of a series. If you haven't read any of the books prior to this you will be confused. There are several books before this one, it's the 8th in the series. All the books revolve around the mafia world of Irish, Italian and various other crime syndicates. The primary family is an Irish one. Adelina is part of an Italian family and is expected to marry into Hayden's family, an Irish one. Their marriage is arranged, just like her older brothers was. Similar to other books in this series readers should be aware that there are potentially triggering subjects such as violence against women depicted in the book. Hayden has a violent ruthless reputation and Adelina is worried about marrying him, but agrees to go through the marriage. Events happen and Hayden shows himself to be softer hearted than Adelina thought. This book contains a lot of violence and action. Both of the families have turmoil and drama throughout the story. There are also several heartwrenching moments and one i particular just broke my heart. I thought the author did an excellent job adding humor into the story, it's not all violence and action there's humor and family loyalty. The family members aren't just loyal, they care about each other and the author did a great job showing their love for each other. This story also does a good job showing a lot of the main characters growing as people and becoming better people in general. There are also plenty of steamy scenes between Hayden and Adelina throughout the majority of the book. There's a little bit of light BDSM in this story, very light. If you're not into BDSM I think you could still enjoy this book it's so light on it. Similar to the other books in the series the men are alpha posessive men and the women may seem timid and submissive, but they aren't always what they seem. I was drawn into this book and felt that I was right there with the characters, I felt so immersed in the story, I love that! I enjoyed this story as much as the others and look forward to reading about the next couple.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2022
First I have to say that I absolutely LOVE Hayden! We met him in Jade's book and he quickly became on of my favorites. So needless to say, I was so stoked when I learned he'd be getting his own book.
Adeline (Ade) and her little sister have been extremely sheltered their whole lives knowing that their only purpose to her parents is to be married off so her father can obtain more power. She didn't expect the kindness she received from Hay. Ade has always been the perfectly behaved daughter with a bit of a backbone that she hides to please her parents and brothers until her parents turn into monsters. She has a lot of resentment towards their brothers because they haven't really shown much in the way of love (*sigh* men). Once the brothers and Hayden find out what Ade has been enduring, they quickly step up and start trying to show their sisters how much they love them. Hayden is really a gift from the heavens for Ade. They're nothing like each other expected and they fall hard. Hayden is constantly trying to protect Ade from those close to her and her enemies both because he's kind and also because he's still struggling from the guilt of his sister being hurt in prison after she takes the fall for a crime he committed.
I can't really go too much in the plot without giving spoilers and these books are just too darn good to spoil. Suffice to say that even though these books are all standalones, I highly recommend reading all of them because the world building is fantastic. WTG Brooke on another success!
Adeline (Ade) and her little sister have been extremely sheltered their whole lives knowing that their only purpose to her parents is to be married off so her father can obtain more power. She didn't expect the kindness she received from Hay. Ade has always been the perfectly behaved daughter with a bit of a backbone that she hides to please her parents and brothers until her parents turn into monsters. She has a lot of resentment towards their brothers because they haven't really shown much in the way of love (*sigh* men). Once the brothers and Hayden find out what Ade has been enduring, they quickly step up and start trying to show their sisters how much they love them. Hayden is really a gift from the heavens for Ade. They're nothing like each other expected and they fall hard. Hayden is constantly trying to protect Ade from those close to her and her enemies both because he's kind and also because he's still struggling from the guilt of his sister being hurt in prison after she takes the fall for a crime he committed.
I can't really go too much in the plot without giving spoilers and these books are just too darn good to spoil. Suffice to say that even though these books are all standalones, I highly recommend reading all of them because the world building is fantastic. WTG Brooke on another success!
August 25, 2022
Cherished Union is a dark romance featuring an arranged marriage between Adelina and Hayden that will strengthen the bonds between the Italian mafia and the Irish mob. Neither want this marriage but they’ll do their duty to their respective families and as far as Hayden is concerned the minute he put his ring on Ade’s finger she became his and when someone threatens her safety, no one is safe from his vengeance.
This is my first book by Brooke Summers and I’m joining the ‘Made’ series on the eighth book in. Did this spoil Cherished Union for me? No, it just means I’ve added another seven books to my ever increasing TBR pile . The plot for this book is fast paced with threats coming from several angles and had enough drama, intrigue and suspense to keep me up all night reading. It’s a tale of both family and famiglia and the ties that bind them, both blood and loyalty. Of love, loss and heartbreak and ultimately of vengeance against anyone who would dare harm any member of the Gallagher clan. With a wonderful hero and heroine in Adelina and Hayden and just enough smexy scenes between them to keep things hot and a fantastic secondary cast of characters, I loved this introduction to Brooke Summers writing, and fortunately for me, I’ve got the previous books to read now instead of having to wait for this author to release the next book in the series for my next fix of the Gallagher clan.
This is my first book by Brooke Summers and I’m joining the ‘Made’ series on the eighth book in. Did this spoil Cherished Union for me? No, it just means I’ve added another seven books to my ever increasing TBR pile . The plot for this book is fast paced with threats coming from several angles and had enough drama, intrigue and suspense to keep me up all night reading. It’s a tale of both family and famiglia and the ties that bind them, both blood and loyalty. Of love, loss and heartbreak and ultimately of vengeance against anyone who would dare harm any member of the Gallagher clan. With a wonderful hero and heroine in Adelina and Hayden and just enough smexy scenes between them to keep things hot and a fantastic secondary cast of characters, I loved this introduction to Brooke Summers writing, and fortunately for me, I’ve got the previous books to read now instead of having to wait for this author to release the next book in the series for my next fix of the Gallagher clan.
August 24, 2022
Cherished Union is the eighth book in Brooke Summers Made series. While these books are technically stand-alones, told in dual pov, with the interwoven main characters and family dynamics I highly recommended starting from book one.
Cherished Union sees the arranged marriage of Hayden Gallagher and Adelina Gallo. Hayden is very much a part of the family business. He’s an Underboss and completely ruthless, though also plagued by guilt from past actions. Delicate Ade brings out his fiercely protective side and when these two come together fireworks will fly.
“Never show fear, dove,” he whispers. “And you are beautiful without even trying. Never let anyone tell you otherwise.”
This is a story about the lengths Hayden and Ade will go to while protecting their family. It is the perfect blend of violence, revenge, heartbreak and romance. If you love Mafia romance, pick up Brooke Summers made series today. And if you don’t, read it anyway. These books are a hidden gem not to be missed. The Gallagher family is amazing!
Cherished Union sees the arranged marriage of Hayden Gallagher and Adelina Gallo. Hayden is very much a part of the family business. He’s an Underboss and completely ruthless, though also plagued by guilt from past actions. Delicate Ade brings out his fiercely protective side and when these two come together fireworks will fly.
“Never show fear, dove,” he whispers. “And you are beautiful without even trying. Never let anyone tell you otherwise.”
This is a story about the lengths Hayden and Ade will go to while protecting their family. It is the perfect blend of violence, revenge, heartbreak and romance. If you love Mafia romance, pick up Brooke Summers made series today. And if you don’t, read it anyway. These books are a hidden gem not to be missed. The Gallagher family is amazing!
August 7, 2022
Cherished Union is the eighth installment in the Made series by Brooke Summers. This full-length standalone mafia romance book can be read by itself but is part of an interconnected series. This book is fast-paced and brimming with action, suspense, danger, sizzling chemistry, heartache, and so much more.
Hayden Gallagher is the underboss of the Gallagher crime syndicate in Chicago. He is known as the Assassin because he is a ruthless cage fighter that often kills or paralyzes his opponents. He has spent the last several years carrying an overwhelming amount of guilt because his sister, Jade, was sentenced to years in prison where she was abused because she took the fall for his crime. She has been released and arranged to marry Rocco Gallo to strengthen their family ties. She seems mentally and emotionally stable, but Hayden suffers daily with the guilt. Hayden is arranged to marry Rocco’s little sister, the young and beautiful Adelina Gallo. He doesn’t want the union but puts family business above his personal desires and moves forward with the engagement.
Adelina has been groomed her entire life to be the silent dutiful wife of a future mafia king. Her father is the cold and callous Italian leader, Aldo Gallo. She knows her place in this world and agrees to marry Hayden. Adelina is simply her father’s pawn and physically abuses her behind closed doors. She takes the brunt of the beatings to protect her innocent 13-year-old sister, Vivi. Aldo almost kills Adelina and everyone finds out. Hayden swoops in and takes Adelina and Vivi away from their monster of a father and pathetic excuse of a mother. This should be a happily-ever-after but in the mafia it is never that easy or simple.
Hayden and Adelina must face grave danger from rival families and Adelina’s father. Can Hayden protect his wife from his enemies? What will it cost him and everyone else to go against powerful mafia families? Will Adelina ever love Hayden despite their forced union neither wanted?
Readers will definitely feel so many emotions while reading this book. There is so much action with danger, grief and loss, happy times, and scorching hot spicy scenes. I was rooting for Hayden to annihilate Aldo and celebrated when Adelina got her revenge. Some main characters were killed off and I was so upset by one in particular, but I understand it had to happen to make the revenge so much sweeter. Overall this was a very exciting book and I am going to go back and read the others in the series!
Tropes: Mafia romance, arranged marriage, age-gap, virgin heroine
Heat: 5/5
Hayden Gallagher is the underboss of the Gallagher crime syndicate in Chicago. He is known as the Assassin because he is a ruthless cage fighter that often kills or paralyzes his opponents. He has spent the last several years carrying an overwhelming amount of guilt because his sister, Jade, was sentenced to years in prison where she was abused because she took the fall for his crime. She has been released and arranged to marry Rocco Gallo to strengthen their family ties. She seems mentally and emotionally stable, but Hayden suffers daily with the guilt. Hayden is arranged to marry Rocco’s little sister, the young and beautiful Adelina Gallo. He doesn’t want the union but puts family business above his personal desires and moves forward with the engagement.
Adelina has been groomed her entire life to be the silent dutiful wife of a future mafia king. Her father is the cold and callous Italian leader, Aldo Gallo. She knows her place in this world and agrees to marry Hayden. Adelina is simply her father’s pawn and physically abuses her behind closed doors. She takes the brunt of the beatings to protect her innocent 13-year-old sister, Vivi. Aldo almost kills Adelina and everyone finds out. Hayden swoops in and takes Adelina and Vivi away from their monster of a father and pathetic excuse of a mother. This should be a happily-ever-after but in the mafia it is never that easy or simple.
Hayden and Adelina must face grave danger from rival families and Adelina’s father. Can Hayden protect his wife from his enemies? What will it cost him and everyone else to go against powerful mafia families? Will Adelina ever love Hayden despite their forced union neither wanted?
Readers will definitely feel so many emotions while reading this book. There is so much action with danger, grief and loss, happy times, and scorching hot spicy scenes. I was rooting for Hayden to annihilate Aldo and celebrated when Adelina got her revenge. Some main characters were killed off and I was so upset by one in particular, but I understand it had to happen to make the revenge so much sweeter. Overall this was a very exciting book and I am going to go back and read the others in the series!
Tropes: Mafia romance, arranged marriage, age-gap, virgin heroine
Heat: 5/5
August 17, 2022
I don’t even know where to begin HOLY MFKN WOW…. Here I thought Jade’s book had broke me nope not at all Ade and Hayden’s book freaking broke me. Hayden is a freaking rock star he is so protective of not only his family but Ade and her sister as well. I freaking loath Ade’s mother and father their family dynamic is nothing like the Gallagher’s and when Hay and Ade marry she finally gets what a family feels like. Watching their story unfold was both heart warming and gut wrenching with everything these two have been through. Hayden still feeling guilty from what happened to Jade and Ade suffering in silence to protect her sister. The enemies are thick and are around every corner. Hayden and Ade balance one another so well their chemistry is off the charts but their love runs soul deep. Hayden was instantly taken by Ade. I love the Gallagher’s so freaking much they just bring in new additions as if they have been their for years. I also love the friendship the Ade develops with to me who was known as the black sheep of family and they have a truly special bond she was there for Ade when she needed her the most. I love this series so much these men are ruthless and unforgiving and the ladies are no different. They all fight and love hard. The heat and spice between these two will have you panting Hayden is a whole other level of sexy let me tell you!!! This is a must read series.
August 15, 2022
Hayden is living a life of regret, a prisoner of his own demons as he tries to deal with his sister’s sacrifice and the fallout from it. The last thing he wants to do is marry a spoiled mafia princess like Adelina Gallo. But there’s more going on behind the scenes in the Gallo house and Addie is not the “doll” that Hayden thinks. She has a steely core combined with a love and compassion that defies the odds when you think of what she has to put up with. This mafia merger wedding is not what you might assume and Hayden and Adelina are about to start their relationship off with a bang. This series keeps getting better and better. Just when you think the author cannot create a better couple than the one you’ve read, bam, out comes a new dynamic duo. Hayden and Adelina are the perfect balance between edgy and sweet, each one complimenting the other. Obviously this is a mafia style romance so there’s plenty of action and danger, lots of heat with a bit of spiciness, but also some tenderness. If you’ve read the other books in this series, which I highly recommend that you do, you will see a lot of familiar faces and you can catch up on all that’s going on with the Gallagher family. Both leads are strong in their own way. I can’t wait for the next one to come out! 5 stars must read. I voluntarily read and reviewed an arc copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
August 17, 2022
Cherish Union is the eight book in the Made Book series . This is a phenomenal addition to this series. The story was captivating and beautifully written and it hooked me from the very beginning and kept me intrigued until the very last page.
The plot was absolutely phenomenal. It was gripping, intriguing, addictive and fast paced with suspense, revenge, twists & turns . It was eloquently written with no loopholes and the characters were well developed. The story was captivating with perfect dose of romance, intrigue, angst and heartbreak.
An arranged marriage between Hayden and Adelina to strengthen the family ties . Hayden doesn’t want to marry but he can do anything for his family. I loved the chemistry and connection between these two. Both these characters just won my heart and I was totally rooting for them. I don’t want to give any spoilers go in blindly and this book will keep you hooked. It was sure a pageturner and an emotional roller coaster.
Though all the books in this series are standalone but are interconnected , you can read it as standalone but I would highly recommend reading all the books in this series. It’s honestly a hidden gem not to be missed. Highly recommend this book.
The plot was absolutely phenomenal. It was gripping, intriguing, addictive and fast paced with suspense, revenge, twists & turns . It was eloquently written with no loopholes and the characters were well developed. The story was captivating with perfect dose of romance, intrigue, angst and heartbreak.
An arranged marriage between Hayden and Adelina to strengthen the family ties . Hayden doesn’t want to marry but he can do anything for his family. I loved the chemistry and connection between these two. Both these characters just won my heart and I was totally rooting for them. I don’t want to give any spoilers go in blindly and this book will keep you hooked. It was sure a pageturner and an emotional roller coaster.
Though all the books in this series are standalone but are interconnected , you can read it as standalone but I would highly recommend reading all the books in this series. It’s honestly a hidden gem not to be missed. Highly recommend this book.
August 21, 2022
It’s a 4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌙 for me.
As true to the title as a story can go, this relation is cherished in more ways than I can count. The story is based on Hayden & Adelina and their arranged union made solely on family background. Seeing Mafia arranged union turn into something fierce is what I love the most. They both have their rough pasts and have a lot of darkness in them on different levels but seeing them fight gives the positive vibes and kept me hooked to know what happens further. With all the enemies lingering and tragedies happening, it’s a roller coaster ride. I adore how beautifully the story is written and conveys every emotion perfectly. Reading this book made me want to read other books in the series too.
As true to the title as a story can go, this relation is cherished in more ways than I can count. The story is based on Hayden & Adelina and their arranged union made solely on family background. Seeing Mafia arranged union turn into something fierce is what I love the most. They both have their rough pasts and have a lot of darkness in them on different levels but seeing them fight gives the positive vibes and kept me hooked to know what happens further. With all the enemies lingering and tragedies happening, it’s a roller coaster ride. I adore how beautifully the story is written and conveys every emotion perfectly. Reading this book made me want to read other books in the series too.
August 24, 2022
Have some tissues because this bus hits you like a bus in the feels! I've never wanted to punch a figurative character so much in my life!!! I love the main families but once you read it you'll know who should be whacked!
This book is sweet, aggravating, and tear jerking all at once. If you like Mafia tales you may like this one!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is sweet, aggravating, and tear jerking all at once. If you like Mafia tales you may like this one!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2022
5 Stars for Cherished Union by Brooke Summers
This book can be read as a stand-alone but it is part of an interconnected series.
Great characters in Adelina and Hayden
Arranged marriage
Mafia setting Italian and Irish
Sizzling chemistry
Interesting storyline and plot
Strong heroine
Some funny and snarky dialog
Happily ever after
Great read !! I recommend this series and author as well ..
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book can be read as a stand-alone but it is part of an interconnected series.
Great characters in Adelina and Hayden
Arranged marriage
Mafia setting Italian and Irish
Sizzling chemistry
Interesting storyline and plot
Strong heroine
Some funny and snarky dialog
Happily ever after
Great read !! I recommend this series and author as well ..
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2022
This is Hayden and Adelina's story. This book has everything from betrayal, pain, love, loss to revenge and reclaiming love to move on. It's the 8th book in the series and Ms. Summers doesn't disappoint in giving her readers what they need. I felt every emotion in this book and I'm looking forward to Alessio's story with Gabs.
August 25, 2022
Cherished Union is an action-packed story that kept me glued to the pages. Hayden and Adelina are endearing and had me cheering for them right from the beginning. This may be the eighth story in the series, but it is one of the best in my opinion!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2022
I wasn't sure how I felt about Hayden before but I ended up loving him. Ade is different from the other women in this series but she has a strength to her that makes her perfect for Hayden. Like the other books, this one has emotions, steam and action. It's a great addition to the Made series.
August 27, 2022
The 8th installment of the Made Series knocks it out of the park. It's so hard to write a review without giving away spoilers, but if you love arranged marriage, an alpha H who loves the h, action-packed story and spice, you will love this one.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 8, 2022
Hayden is Jade’s brother and he has not forgiven himself yet for what happens to Jade while she was in jail. The events that led to Jade being arrested are revealed in this book and serve as the main revenge plot through the story as Hayden learns to move forward from what happened. We also have the arranged marriage of Hayden and Adelina Gallo, Rocco Gallo’s younger sister. Rocco is Jade’s husband. Ade has been sheltered but emotionally tormented throughout her life by her parents and once the abuse turns physical, the Gallo siblings, with the support of the Gallagher clan, realize what is happening and band together to protect Ade and the youngest Gallo, Viv.
I loved reading about Hayden and how he is fiercely protective of his family and new wife. He encourages her and supports her in her endeavors and shows her the strong familial ties within the Gallagher clan. Ade herself is a strong female and learns to support herself and to protect her husband. She finds new friendships with the Gallagher clan as well. Between the two of them, we can instantly feel their connection and love for one another.
Along the way, we get plenty of mafia action and suspense as well as a whirlwind of emotions as we follow Hayden and Ade. There is a lot of endearing moments, sad moments, and triumphant moments. It was also great to see familiar and new faces.
Overall this was an enjoyable read and I cannot wait for the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved reading about Hayden and how he is fiercely protective of his family and new wife. He encourages her and supports her in her endeavors and shows her the strong familial ties within the Gallagher clan. Ade herself is a strong female and learns to support herself and to protect her husband. She finds new friendships with the Gallagher clan as well. Between the two of them, we can instantly feel their connection and love for one another.
Along the way, we get plenty of mafia action and suspense as well as a whirlwind of emotions as we follow Hayden and Ade. There is a lot of endearing moments, sad moments, and triumphant moments. It was also great to see familiar and new faces.
Overall this was an enjoyable read and I cannot wait for the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 17, 2022
Adelina (I love that name) is the daughter of a mafia man. She's been put in an arranged marriage with Hayden. At first they don't care for each other but I was happy to see there wasn't any hatred or deep feelings there. They just didn't want to be forced to marry.
Things change though, Adelina's father becomes abusive and Hayden catches wind. He goes into protective mode and feelings develop.
I really enjoyed reading this. It had romance, steam, mystery and action- a bit of everything. Five stars!
important bits:
virgin heroine
no OM/OW
no cheating
safe
tropes- dark mafia, arranged marriage
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Things change though, Adelina's father becomes abusive and Hayden catches wind. He goes into protective mode and feelings develop.
I really enjoyed reading this. It had romance, steam, mystery and action- a bit of everything. Five stars!
important bits:
virgin heroine
no OM/OW
no cheating
safe
tropes- dark mafia, arranged marriage
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 17, 2022
What a book.
After the epic ending of the previous one, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it, and it didn't disappoint.
It was everything I was hoping for and more.
The only reason it isn't on my top reads list (like many others by this talented author), is only because there was more steam than I'm used to from this author.
That didn't stop it breaking me though, so because of this I'm shutting up as I'm worried I'll give something away.
From the sounds of it, the next book will be the same and I can't wait.
After the epic ending of the previous one, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it, and it didn't disappoint.
It was everything I was hoping for and more.
The only reason it isn't on my top reads list (like many others by this talented author), is only because there was more steam than I'm used to from this author.
That didn't stop it breaking me though, so because of this I'm shutting up as I'm worried I'll give something away.
From the sounds of it, the next book will be the same and I can't wait.
August 18, 2022
Book eight in the series brings Hayden and Adelina's story. The author brings strong characters and weaves a great mafia romance. It's a fast paced story filled with action, danger and suspense along with the steamy romance. It's well written with descriptive scenes, moves fluidly and is a terrific read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
August 17, 2022
Hayden and Adeline go into their arranged marriage with problems from her parents, violence ,and tragedies throughout both their families. They do manage to get to know and depend on each other. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
August 16, 2022
Phenomenal doesn't even begin to cover this! I am absolutely enthralled with it and have been from day one and I cant wait to continue this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2022
This author hit it out of the park with this book. Wow!! Adelina is the bomb, she is right up there with Jade which has been my all time favorite until Adelina now I believe they are tied. This is a phenomenal book. Adelina has been through hell and back on more occasions than you can count but she keeps going. Even though she feels she is weak the people around her prove to her she is anything but. I absolutely fell in love with Hayden, not only did he take care of Adelina but her sister as well. What a man!! He may have been a monster to those that went up against his family but he was so sweet and caring to Adelina. I absolutely loved this couple. I can only imagine what this author has in store for the next couple. I so can not wait. I highly highly recommend this book and series.
August 14, 2022
Cherished Union is book eight in the Made series and Hayden and Adelina's story. The emotions this book out me through were wild. This book hurt me put me on the edge of my seat and put me back together at the end. I can't wait to read what's next.
August 29, 2022
Cherished Union is book eight in Brooke’s Made Series and is the story of Hayden Gallagher and Adelina Gallo.
This series is an absolute must read for Mafia/Mob/Bratva readers and all the leading ladies are strong, fierce and brave in their own ways, there are no shrinking violets or damsels in distress here.
Adelina has lead a sheltered life as a mafia princess but has endured pain and trauma, she just wants freedom to be herself but finds herself in an arranged marriage to Hayden Gallagher a notoriously violent man.
This pair worked so well together as a couple and once again Brooke has delivered a mafia romance with action, plot and heart.
This series is an absolute must read for Mafia/Mob/Bratva readers and all the leading ladies are strong, fierce and brave in their own ways, there are no shrinking violets or damsels in distress here.
Adelina has lead a sheltered life as a mafia princess but has endured pain and trauma, she just wants freedom to be herself but finds herself in an arranged marriage to Hayden Gallagher a notoriously violent man.
This pair worked so well together as a couple and once again Brooke has delivered a mafia romance with action, plot and heart.
August 6, 2022
This is one of my favourite Mafia series. I never have trouble remembering characters from from one book in the series to the next because they stick in my head. This story is about Hayden Gallagher, who carries so much guilt about what his sister Jade has endured on his behalf. His dad has arranged a strong alliance between his family and the Gallos, with two Gallaghers marrying two Gallos. From the minute Hayden lays eyes on Adelina, he is taken by her gentle sweetness. There are many dangerous enemies lurking everywhere, and justice and revenge for one’s family are paramount. Adelina’s trust in Hayden humbles him, their dynamic is so special. I love the expanding Gallagher family, and how their closeness encompasses the new additions. It might be the eighth book in the series but it still feels fresh & exciting.
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