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Forbidden #3

Forbidden Love: Marco

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I chose to become a Bellanti… but no one walks away from the Bruno family.

My life was planned for me, down to the smallest detail.
I was to be a gift for a man loyal to my uncle, a pretty little prize.
When I ran away, I did it for love.

I should have known my uncle would never allow it.

They say all’s fair in love and war, but sometimes they’re the same thing.

And nothing about this is fair.

I should be a happy newlywed, burning dinner and stealing kisses.
Instead, I’m a pawn for powerful men to fight over.
But they’ve underestimated my husband.

He’ll do anything to protect the woman he gave his name to.
Despite the Bruno blood that still flows through my veins.
Even if it means going against his own brothers.

I vowed ‘til death do us part… and Marco Bellanti will be the death of me.

Book Three of Three in the angsty, sizzling Forbidden Series.

For the best reading experience...

Broken Bride - Dante (Broken Book 1)
Broken Vow - Dante (Broken Book 2)
Broken Trust - Dante (Broken Book 3)
Forbidden Bride - Marco (Forbidden Book 1)
Forbidden War - Marco (Forbidden Book 2)
Forbidden Love - Marco (Forbidden Book 3)
Captive Bride - Armani (Captive Book 1)
Captive Rival - Armani (Captive Book 2)
Captive Heart - Armani (Captive Book 3)

326 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 23, 2022

393 people are currently reading
199 people want to read

About the author

Stella Gray

64 books746 followers
Stella Gray has always had her head in the clouds and has been writing since she was in high school. A contemporary romance author, she loves dark romances with morally gray men. When she’s not writing, she’s either in the kitchen testing out a new baking recipe or spending time in the great outdoors.

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5 stars
264 (57%)
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138 (30%)
3 stars
44 (9%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Christine B.
554 reviews103 followers
April 11, 2023
Karina being forced by her uncle to betray Marco and his family. How is she going to protect her new family and save members of her own family at the same time? Marco is relieved to have her back, but his brother, Armani, continues to question her loyalties, leaving Karina forever stressed, especially because of the secret she's holding. Marco senses a difference in her and tries to comfort her with his love and devotion, making Karina feel even more guilty... She needs to figure out a solution fast, time is running out.

Who will Karina save her husband or her mother? In the end no one expect the little brother Marco to save the day...Did he or was it just a bandaid? I'm sure the Bruno's will come back with both guns blazing. According to the tatoo man that they finally captured, the Bruno's is responsible for it all their father, mother & sister. Marco gets his HEA but now Armani story is next.
3,247 reviews27 followers
August 29, 2022
Marco and Karina's story continues and wow they fought tooth and nail for their love. The secrets, betrayl ,danger made it a real page turner that I couldn't get enough of.

Beautiful writing and the characters I loved and cheered them on. Can't wait for more from this Author.
Profile Image for FS Meurinne.
Author 2 books134 followers
August 25, 2022
Marco and Karina's story continues with more twists and turns, the book picks up from the previous one, they have to find a way to solve the issue they are in, there are a lot of unexpected things happening, making you be hooked and rooted until you finish the last page. The star-crossed Romeo and Juliet vibes in this story full of mafia and what began with an arranged marriage had me enjoying this plot throughly. This story might be the conclusion to Marco's story but the series will continue for the Bellanti Brother's family, Armani and Candi might be next.



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Profile Image for Dora Harvey.
1,122 reviews11 followers
August 23, 2022
WOW! What can I say! What a perfect ending to this trilogy! To say I love this story is an understatement. Mafia romance has always been one of my favorite sub-genres. I was enthralled from start to finish. Stella Gray has out done herself, another hit with this series...Forbidden! This dark Mafia suspense is raw, emotional, intense, and deliciously addicting. This book continues where the last book left off. Now, Marco and Karina are married, but will Karina’s Mafia boss uncle sit back and say nothing because all’s fair in love and war, right? Will the Brunos go for revenge? Will her uncle put Karina’s life in jeopardy or will he do something more discerning than ever concerning one of his family members? Marco and Karina are full of surprises—I was flabbergasted with the unexpected revelations that happened, but it was jaw-dropping good! It was amazing and my blood was pumping like crazy reading this story. Marco and Karina’s journey is full of deception, hurt, trust, secrets, betrayal, and lies. Lines will be crossed, secrets will be revealed. Despite their differences, these two share an intense and sizzling chemistry that is off-the-charts hot! They push and pull through the whole story, and they will fascinate you and frustrate you at the same time. Stella Gray took me through several emotional gamuts and pushed all my buttons. I feel like I got off a crazy roller coaster ride from hell! There are several twists and turns within the story that will tempt the characters in ways they could have never envisioned. Stella Gray delivered a no holds barred dark romantic Mafia suspense story that grips you to the core as she unleashed an unfiltered, powerful, intriguing, and calculating love story. If you are a fan of the Mafia genre with unscrupulous men, and a dominant man whose actions are as dark as his looks, then this book will astound you. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book and the trilogy! I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Karen_Lee_Reads.
1,301 reviews46 followers
August 23, 2022
Forbidden Love: Marco
(Bellanti Brothers Book 6)
By Stella Gray

Her uncle is using Karina; while he is bound and determined to use her to spy against the Bellanti Brothers, Karina is just as determined to keep her uncle from finding out anything. That alone puts her in a tough position.

Marco is sure that Karina is hiding something from him; he is willing to give her time to get over the kidnapping. He promises to keep her safe and to protect her not just from her family but from Armani as well.

No matter how much she tries to keep information from her uncle, it seems that the war between the two families will continue. Every time a move is made it feels like Sergio Bruno is a step ahead…and when Marco’s life is on the line, Karina is by his side.

Forbidden Love is full of action, from a kidnapping, Armani continuing to look for the mole and an accident that could take a life, readers have so much to take in. All the while Karina is playing a game of cat and mouse with her uncle.

With everything going on around them Marco and Karina are trying hard to learn to trust each other. Both are bound and determined to make their marriage work and the physical attraction between these two is full of steam and hot nights! I have no doubt that Karina will find a way to open up to Marco and tell him all he needs to know to turn the table on Sergio.

From car races, to attacks to a honeymoon Forbidden Love has readers turning pages and cheering on the newlyweds. Of course we also still have Armani looking for the mole in their organization ~ if Armani’s the cat ~ whose the rat?

Forbidden Love is the perfect end to Marco and Karina’s story…the only brother left is Armani and he is a tough nut to crack!
Profile Image for SANDRA.
92 reviews4 followers
November 27, 2024
Woe is Karina 1, 2 and 3

I wholeheartedly believe a Trilogy was unnecessary and it probably,y why Armani has been the only character I find likable.

The author made the same mistake with Karina that she did with Frankie. She tried to portray Karina as endearing, naive,and selfless, but I found her annoying with her ridiculous obsession with Jane Austen and her thinking her and Marco is the modern Romeo and Juliette.

There is also her attempt as portraying Dante and Marco alpha males with a moral compass. FAIL!

The author could not make me believe that any of the attributes that she assigned to the characters(except Armani) were authentic.

Karina’s internal “woe is me” musings were nauseating. She was the consummate perpetual victim in all three books and in complete denial that she more like her uncle and not at all “innocent”! She was the most selfish character to date in my opinion, and her Marco are two peas in pod.

There was also a lot of unnecessary intimate scenes that were clearly added to fill up pages since they were at the most bizarre places/time.

Dante and Frankie are as annoying as ever— especially Frankie COS playing as the virtuous wife/sister/boss lady. I dislike her even more than I did in her series.

I ended up skimming a lot of book 3, because I was over them.

The only character I found remotely tolerable in the two trilogies so far is Armarmi and I am hoping after 6 books in this series, the author will do him justice.
Profile Image for Jesi Blanco.
Author 0 books68 followers
August 23, 2022

Forbidden Love picks up where Forbidden War left off - Karina has been taken by her uncle and Marco is loosing his mind. Karina's uncle has taken her for cryptic motives that could potentially help him gain power over the Bellanti's. But since Karina has become loyal to her husband's family, she is reluctant to be part of her uncle's plans.

And once Karina has been quote unquote rescued they have a lot of ups and downs in the relationship. Karina has a lot of emotional damage from her time with her uncle that involved her ex fiance. Then an accident occurred that involved Marco which, additionally, put her on edge. Marco is trying his best to win back his wife but since he doesn't know what's going on there's he can't figure out how to make that happen.

They do spend a lot of time together and that builds up their relationship more but, of course, Karina has shadows and that causes strain to her emotional and mental well-being.

𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕:
• arranged marriage
• Romeo and Juliet vibes
• boy obsessed
• broody mmc
• forbidden romance
• rival families
• Mafia romance
• morally grey
Profile Image for Lauren - SERIESous Books.
1,863 reviews63 followers
August 25, 2022
**I received a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest voluntary review. All opinions are my own and not influenced by my source.**

I could NOT wait to see how Marco and Karina's story would end!

This one starts with a darker, more action-packed tone that quickly reminds you that there is a mafia element to this family. I loved the suspense it brought and how there is this ongoing drama that weaves its way through all the brother's stories.

I loved how these two fought for their relationship and how they communicated. They really grew their relationship from something that was very instantaneous and initially based on lust to a strong, healthy relationship.

I can't wait for the next Bellanti story!

Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!

Full Review: https://wp.me/p7hLUw-3BT
Actual Rating: 4/5
Profile Image for Meredith (SweetReadsandTreats).
1,214 reviews26 followers
March 20, 2023
Forbidden Love was the happy ending I wanted for Marco and Karina and a resolution of the war between the families. However, there were a few bumps in the road for me as a reader. For the last story, Stella decides to give the Brunos what they wanted, a mole in the Bellanti organization. However in order to achieve this she had to suspend reality a bit which took me a little out of the story. I liked the premise but even the smallest bug couldn’t operate as written. I also struggled a little bit with Marco and Karina’s reunification. I felt like he didn’t assess her needs very well.

Now with that being said, there were a lot of things that I really loved about this story. The way she orchestrated for Karina’s return to the fold and then the eventual payback had just enough grit and gave the story more of a mafia feel than the previous trilogy. I also loved how Marco and Karina finally connected as a team and united front. I always enjoyed the dynamic between them, but the ending Stella gave them was just what I wanted for the story. I can’t wait to dive into the darkest brother’s story with Armani and Candi.
Profile Image for J. Grayland.
Author 7 books127 followers
May 11, 2023
I chose to become a Bellanti… but no one walks away from the Bruno family. My life was planned for me, down to the smallest detail.
I was to be a gift for a man loyal to my uncle, a pretty little prize.
When I ran away, I did it for love. I should have known my uncle would never allow it. They say all’s fair in love and war, but sometimes they’re the same thing. And nothing about this is fair. I should be a happy newlywed, burning dinner and stealing kisses. Instead, I’m a pawn for powerful men to fight over. I have to admit that I really do enjoy these books even though they would have to be the weakest mafia family I have ever come accross in a book, all though in this one we do get a little more of the mafia life together with a little more action and drama. I do lika Marco and Corina they do have a nice chemistry.
Profile Image for Edwina " I LoveBooks" "Deb".
1,440 reviews17 followers
December 3, 2023
AUDIBLE EDITIONS WERE EXCELLANT!!
Final part 3 of Marco and Karina's love story. The Burno and Bellanti have their final war and of course the Bellanti's win. But only after much harm and lost to the Bellanti family. The love between Marco and Karina continues to grow.

However, I didn't like how much harm Sergio Karina's uncle was allowed to get away with. Sergio should have gotten more retribution from the Bellanti's. Unfortunately, he is still out there to bring down and kill everyone in the Bellanti family. I guess this storyline will continue with Armani Bellanti's trilogy.

I felt like I have read this series before. I seem to have known how it would play out. But when I checked my reviews and ratings it didn't show up. I am wondering if it was published under another title at some point.
Profile Image for Chris.
656 reviews
August 17, 2022
I really enjoyed Marco and Karina's final book and the story of their love. There was plenty of non-stop action, secrets, double-crosses, and steaminess between the sheets to keep me turning the pages at a rapid clip. Luckily there was some enjoyable times worked in there too. Marco was pretty swoon-worthy and Karina, while under lots of pressure, still managed to enjoy her man to the fullest. I definitely enjoyed the interaction of all three Bellanti brothers with each of them bringing their own unique qualities to the table. Hopefully, Marco and Karina will be able to live happily ever after, but do any mafia families ever stop looking over their shoulder and relax? Not likely. Looking forward to reading more about this family with Armani's story still to come!
Profile Image for Jennie.
247 reviews7 followers
August 20, 2022
What an ending!!! I have fallen in love with Stella Gray’s writing and the Bellanti Brother’s world she has created. This series was addicting from start to finish. Started off with a Romeo and Juliet rival mafia family forbidden romance with Marco and Karina that took us on a wild, seductive and suspenseful ride. Marco and Karina fought for their love at every turn. Book 3 finally ends the feud between the Bellantis and Brunos or does it? The hints at the end suggest something bigger is brewing. Armani was an interesting character I’m excited to learn more about. The glimpses we get of the intense chemistry between him and Candi is so hot! I can’t wait to read what happens next with Armani and Candi.
3,411 reviews19 followers
August 24, 2022
Forbidden Love is the sixth book in the Bellanti Brothers Series which continues the suspenseful romance between Marco and Karina as he plans with his brothers to find and free his kidnapped wife. Sergio Bruno has kidnapped Karina, implanted a listening device into her wedding ring, and threatened harm upon her loved ones if she does not cooperate as a spy upon the Bellanti Family. This well written book has amazing characters, unexpected plot twists, strong emotions, sizzling passion, mafia action, and a surprising cliffhanger. The next book in this brilliant series is Captive Bride.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.


1,654 reviews8 followers
August 27, 2022
Great ending to Marco and Karina’s story!

This is the continuing story of Marco Bellanti and Karina Bruno – Bellanti. It’s the Bellanti family against the Bruno family. There is competition between Marco and Pietro, who is loyal to the Bruno family, on the racetrack. How will Laura prove the trust between her and the Bellanti family? It’s a conundrum at the least. Lots of planning from the Bellanti brothers to bring in action to this story. Lots of love and steam between Marco and Karina. It was an amazing journey to go on with them, but also with his other brothers, as well. The ending will start the beginning of Armani’s story. Can’t wait to read it next!
1,121 reviews6 followers
September 4, 2022
This book picks up where Forbidden War left us hanging on a cliff with Karina being forced by her uncle to betray her husband's family. How is she going to protect her new family and save members of her own family at the same time? Marco is relieved to have her back, but his brother, Armani, continues to question her loyalties, leaving Karina forever stressed, especially because of the secret she's holding. Marco senses a difference in her and tries to comfort her with his love and devotion, making her feel guilty. She needs to figure out a solution fast before time is running out to save her loved ones. Thrilling ending!
1,571 reviews27 followers
November 24, 2022
The third and final part of Marco and Karina story - and it's all going sku-wiff!

Marco knows he loves her, he's finally admitted to himself that they really are meant to be. But when everything seems to be against you, it can mess with your head which is exactly what happens here!

There are still a lot of secrets, betrayals, close calls with d3ath and a lot of passion between the two.

Theres no denying those Bruno scum are more organised that I originally thought!
Can the Bellantis finally come out on top in one piece?....

A really good read, and a really good series - Definitely recommend :)
Profile Image for Becca.
561 reviews17 followers
November 16, 2023
My Rating: 4.5/5

My Thoughts: An epic and twisted ending to another great trilogy by Stella Gray. Marco and Karina have gone through so much as a couple and separately. I enjoyed this whole trilogy. Karina and Marco are perfect for one another. Karina brings out a softer side of Marco that no one else can. The way they come together in this book made me so happy. Even though Marco is very loyal and tight-knit with his brothers, he never backs down when it comes to Karina. He always stood up for her, and I loved that. I highly recommend this series and cannot wait to read the last Ballanti's brother, Armani's book.
Profile Image for Amour.Rebelle.Reads (Bran.d).
1,546 reviews16 followers
August 27, 2022
Forbidden Love is has everything I love about the Bellantis…it’s packed with family, love, action and betrayal. Armani main goal is to find the mole and he is relentless in his search. We eventually find out who it is & I can’t wait to see where that leads.

Marco & Karina are stronger than ever. Their love knows no bounds even though Uncle Bruno is hell bent on ruining them. In an act of foolish determination Marco sets out a plan to save his family and Karina from her uncle…and his crazy scheme may actually work 🖤


Profile Image for United Indie Book Blog.
4,683 reviews85 followers
September 4, 2022
Forbidden Love is book 3 in the Forbidden Series and they need to be read I order. It finishes up Marco’s and Karina’s story. Karina is put in a hard place and does everything she can to make sure they stay safe. When she finally surrenders and trusts Marco completely is when she is able to fully step into her role as his wife. Marco will do anything to keep her safe and he knows there’s a threat just doesn’t know where it is coming from. The Bellanti brothers are a force and they will protect their own. I’m excited for Armanti’s story and can’t wait to see him fall.

Review by Raychel
Profile Image for Gerry.
1,976 reviews4 followers
September 8, 2022
Great finale to Marco and Karina's story. Karina is kidnapped by her uncle, and forced to spy on the Bellanti brothers. He rigs her engagement ring with a device so he can hear everything around her and threatens her mother's life if she refuses. She tries to never be near them when they discuss any family business. Everyone notices she is acting strangely but she refuses to confide in anyone. This is a wonderful continuation of their story and does have a resolution although it will continue, I'm sure, in the next book. Lots of romantic sex scenes. Really love the Bellanti's!!
837 reviews8 followers
August 14, 2022
The latest book in the series. Marco and Karina are still sizzling together. It is nice to see them getting closer and accepting each other. There are so many shocking twists in the story. Lots of surprises that I didn't expect. Such an amazing series. If you love the first 2 books, you'll love this one even more.... :)

Thanks to the publisher for the arc.


1,684 reviews12 followers
August 16, 2022
Good ending to Marco and Karina's story. She gets sent back to Marco but has a secret she can't share that eats her up inside.
I kept wondering when and how she'd share her secret with Marco and how they were going to come out the other side. There were plenty of ups and downs, tons of sexy scenes, and the ending sets us up for Armani's story coming up soon.
Profile Image for Brandy.
136 reviews1 follower
August 26, 2022
This is the last book in Marco and Karina’s story. Lots of ups and downs for both them. Poor Karina continues to find her footing among a family at odds with hers. They both have to figure out how to protect their family from threats they are all facing. This may conclude their story but, the saga continues with Armani’s story! Can’t wait!
Profile Image for Margarida.
593 reviews15 followers
September 12, 2023
Finished the Forbidden series! These Bellanti brothers are awesome! Love these series. Will have to start the next series in the Bellantis! Lots of action and romance! Although I Loved the Broken series, I think that I loved the Forbidden even more! Have to move on to Armani’s Story😎 these are very spicy romances that are filled with action and romance🔥🔥 I recommend them😉
Profile Image for Lindsay.
2,449 reviews
August 15, 2022
The conclusion to Marco’s story but definitely not the conclusion to the Bellanti saga. I enjoyed this book like I’ve enjoyed the others. It is never a dull moment! I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Shelley.
79 reviews
September 12, 2022
Phenomenal!

I was starting to think this story couldn't get any better and then it does! I can't believe I have to wait so long for Armani's story to really begin and I really can't believe that Candi was the mole the whole time! This should be fantastic!
Profile Image for Jodie Lauren.
1,962 reviews3 followers
February 12, 2023
Marco determined to help his bride. She hadn’t been the same since she has come back from being kidnapped. He has no idea what’s happening but she doesn’t know how to tell him the truth! Will they be able to survive what’s coming!

Xf
859 reviews
June 10, 2023
This was the sixth book in the series and the third in Marco and Karina’s story. The story moved along nicely and there was a resolution to many of the on-going issues of the rest of the series. There was a lot going on throughout the story that kept me engaged.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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