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Bellanti Brothers #7
Captive Bride: Armani
I was supposed to get close to him…but Armani keeps his secrets closer.
Everyone knows that Armani is the most dangerous Bellanti brother.
No one knows what he’s capable of.
I do know there is nothing he won’t do for his family.
For months, I’ve interacted with the dark, broody man.
The way he looks at me moves the earth under my feet.
His touch makes my skin tingle.
But I’ve had my own agenda.
Then after a night I can’t remember, I wake up naked in his bed.
He’s sitting at my side, a cruel smile on his face.
Now I'm his captive--and his wife.
We might share his Bellanti name, but I'll never share my heart.
Book One of Three in the all-new angsty, sizzling Captive Series.
Everyone knows that Armani is the most dangerous Bellanti brother.
No one knows what he’s capable of.
I do know there is nothing he won’t do for his family.
For months, I’ve interacted with the dark, broody man.
The way he looks at me moves the earth under my feet.
His touch makes my skin tingle.
But I’ve had my own agenda.
Then after a night I can’t remember, I wake up naked in his bed.
He’s sitting at my side, a cruel smile on his face.
Now I'm his captive--and his wife.
We might share his Bellanti name, but I'll never share my heart.
Book One of Three in the all-new angsty, sizzling Captive Series.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2022
415 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
About the author
Stella Gray
64 books744 followersStella 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
April 11, 2023
It’s an ongoing goal for Dante Bellanti to get out of the mafia since their father passed. However they aren't too sure that Armani wants out. Candi has worked at The Bellanti Winery for two years. Her best friend is a Bruno and her and her uncle talked Candi into going to work and to spy on the Bellanti family to get information. Her best friend’s uncle is the Bruno mafia family whose goal is to rule the mafia world. Although Marco found a way to shut him up, the Bruno's are determined to rule it all. Little do Candi know Is Armani knows she is the mole. So he convince her to move in so he and his brothers can keep a closer watch. Candi believes that she is finally getting what she wanted a relationship with Armani. To say the least, they’ve been attracted to one another for all the time she’s worked there. This story shows Armani’s softer side, going into his dark side. When Candi convinces Armani to take her to Vegas Candi gets a little to close to the truth and when she wakes she is now the new Mrs Bellanti. Now Candi is torn between helping her best friend who has lied to her all these years and the man she now falling for Armani Bellanti...
November 22, 2022
✨UMMM YESSSS✨
We all know I absolutely love @stellagrayauthor (who is underrated in my opinion) but CAPTIVE BRIDE was AMAZING!
I will admit I got a little frustrated with Candi, but that’s only because I love this family and they will stop at nothing to protect it, and she comes waltzing in and well that’s all I can say…
But Armani wasn’t born yesterday and his plan is brilliant from the beginning.
And then shit hits the fan and a switch is flipped in him and it’s the hottest, most dominating switch! So yay for Candi for flipping that for me!
Y’all this might be my favorite Stella Gray book, but that’s also hard because I really love them all, but ARMANI BELLANTI WHEW GIRRRLLLLL you are gonna need some water! 🥵🥵🥵
We all know I absolutely love @stellagrayauthor (who is underrated in my opinion) but CAPTIVE BRIDE was AMAZING!
I will admit I got a little frustrated with Candi, but that’s only because I love this family and they will stop at nothing to protect it, and she comes waltzing in and well that’s all I can say…
But Armani wasn’t born yesterday and his plan is brilliant from the beginning.
And then shit hits the fan and a switch is flipped in him and it’s the hottest, most dominating switch! So yay for Candi for flipping that for me!
Y’all this might be my favorite Stella Gray book, but that’s also hard because I really love them all, but ARMANI BELLANTI WHEW GIRRRLLLLL you are gonna need some water! 🥵🥵🥵
March 7, 2023
Its a nice steamy read if you shut down your brain for a while and try not to guess where the story is going coz you might guess it right if you use your brain properly 😂😂
Most of the "TWISTS" were predictable from the get go but still I enjoyed some of the smuty scenes tho Candy and Armani's relationship was very unconvincing for me since the beginning..
Most of the "TWISTS" were predictable from the get go but still I enjoyed some of the smuty scenes tho Candy and Armani's relationship was very unconvincing for me since the beginning..
December 8, 2022
Each book in this series gets better and better. Stella always has everything that I love in her mafia books. I have been patiently waiting for Armani and Candi’s story. Their flirt game has been strong throughout Dante and Marco’s stories.
Captive Bride is full of lies and betrayal…we definitely get to see Armani’s dark side—both in and out of the bedroom🖤🔥. He is both sexy AF and a little terrifying😳 Especially now that he knows Candi’s secrets…
Ummm holy Godfather Batman…that ending👀🫣
Captive Bride is full of lies and betrayal…we definitely get to see Armani’s dark side—both in and out of the bedroom🖤🔥. He is both sexy AF and a little terrifying😳 Especially now that he knows Candi’s secrets…
Ummm holy Godfather Batman…that ending👀🫣
November 24, 2022
Captive Bride: Armani
(Bellanti Brothers Book 7)
By Stella Gray
Armani Bellanti is my kind of mobster! He would give his life to save a family member. He is determined to make sure anyone who could hurt his family will be hunted down and dealt with. He knows there is a mole in their organization and he knows who it is. He also knows to stay alive he needs to keep his friends close and his enemies closer. Candi is one of his enemies.
Candi has been drawn into the crazy that is the mob! She’s supposed to spy on the Bellanti family. Pass on information, she thinks she is doing a good thing; ultimately she ends up realizing she is being used by the person who she is spying for.
Armani’s plan is to use Candi to plant information, to use her and in order to make it look real he marries her in Vegas.
Author Stella Gray has given readers the perfect beginning of her new series.
Captive Bride is full of suspense, lies and emotion. There is a very heavy underlying attraction between Candi and Armani and as the game gets darker the chance for someone to be hurt grows.
Their story holds your attention, you may end up saying No, No, No don’t do that as you are reading. I could not put this book down and each time you thought it couldn’t get worse it does.
In Candi’s words “…keeps lighting fires inside of me. Little fires all over.” She is talking about her attraction to Armani and how he makes her feel, yet the way things are going those fires may not just be emotions, they may be warnings of what is to come.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series because that ending…damn!
(Bellanti Brothers Book 7)
By Stella Gray
Armani Bellanti is my kind of mobster! He would give his life to save a family member. He is determined to make sure anyone who could hurt his family will be hunted down and dealt with. He knows there is a mole in their organization and he knows who it is. He also knows to stay alive he needs to keep his friends close and his enemies closer. Candi is one of his enemies.
Candi has been drawn into the crazy that is the mob! She’s supposed to spy on the Bellanti family. Pass on information, she thinks she is doing a good thing; ultimately she ends up realizing she is being used by the person who she is spying for.
Armani’s plan is to use Candi to plant information, to use her and in order to make it look real he marries her in Vegas.
Author Stella Gray has given readers the perfect beginning of her new series.
Captive Bride is full of suspense, lies and emotion. There is a very heavy underlying attraction between Candi and Armani and as the game gets darker the chance for someone to be hurt grows.
Their story holds your attention, you may end up saying No, No, No don’t do that as you are reading. I could not put this book down and each time you thought it couldn’t get worse it does.
In Candi’s words “…keeps lighting fires inside of me. Little fires all over.” She is talking about her attraction to Armani and how he makes her feel, yet the way things are going those fires may not just be emotions, they may be warnings of what is to come.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series because that ending…damn!
January 27, 2023
Armani Bellanti has intrigued me from the first time he was introduced in Broken Bride, Dante and Frankie’s story. I am beyond excited to finally get his and Candi’s story. This book had me captivated from the start. It was seductive, thrilling, and angsty. Candi is playing a dangerous game and thinks she won’t get caught, but Armani is always one step ahead. Their sizzling, passionate chemistry jumps off the page. This story is full of twists and turns, suspense, and angst. You want to feel sorry for Candi but she sealed her fate when she believed her best friend over what she’s witnessed her whole time as the Bellanti’s wine sales person and Frankie’s friend. However, Armani is holy smokes dangerous, dark, hot and swoon worthy. I am so excited to see what happens next and can’t wait to see how Armani and Candi ’s love story goes from tragedy to happily ever after.
November 26, 2022
From the beginning of The Bellanti Series, it's clear that there's some serious attraction between Armani and Candi yet neither act on it.
At the end of the second trilogy, info came to light about Candi and it set the tone for this trilogy!
When Armani proposes a 6 month long 'arrangement', she's all in - but it's not long until she realises there's nothing that gets past Bellanti - especially Armani Bellanti - and now she's trapped...
A good read, it's quite sad that Candi was so silly and easily lead, but such is life 🤷🏻♀️
It's intense, a lot of secrets, backstabbing and betrayals as well as a family who will go to any lengths to protect their own...
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
At the end of the second trilogy, info came to light about Candi and it set the tone for this trilogy!
When Armani proposes a 6 month long 'arrangement', she's all in - but it's not long until she realises there's nothing that gets past Bellanti - especially Armani Bellanti - and now she's trapped...
A good read, it's quite sad that Candi was so silly and easily lead, but such is life 🤷🏻♀️
It's intense, a lot of secrets, backstabbing and betrayals as well as a family who will go to any lengths to protect their own...
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
December 1, 2022
I’ve been waiting for Armani and Candi’s story since I read the first book in this series. I was not disappointed!
Candi isn’t just a hard working wine salesperson, but is the mole from the Bruno’s. I don’t think we actually find out why she’s gathering information for them, but she plays a good actress even though she always says she doesn’t.
Armani of course is two steps ahead and devises a trap for her.
We get to see real attraction and maybe even real feelings until everything goes horribly wrong for Candi.
I can’t wait to see what happens in the next books and if the Bruno’s will just let them be and live lives outside of the mob
Candi isn’t just a hard working wine salesperson, but is the mole from the Bruno’s. I don’t think we actually find out why she’s gathering information for them, but she plays a good actress even though she always says she doesn’t.
Armani of course is two steps ahead and devises a trap for her.
We get to see real attraction and maybe even real feelings until everything goes horribly wrong for Candi.
I can’t wait to see what happens in the next books and if the Bruno’s will just let them be and live lives outside of the mob
December 2, 2022
This is book 7 of the Bellanti Brothers. Armani and Candi’s story. The story is intriguing, so many secrets to discover, I love a good suspense with my romance and this story has it. The book hooked me from the start, I can't wait to unveil it all. Armani is a super interesting character that you will fall in love with, such an alpha. This is a darker story and so I can't wait for the next one.
October 10, 2023
This series is so addictive. Really love it! All the mafia dealings and their way of life, all is very well described. Moving on to the next one…😉
March 1, 2024
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
🥵
Mafia Romance, violence, forced Marriage.
💋💋
🥵
Mafia Romance, violence, forced Marriage.
December 1, 2022
What a start to the trilogy! That ending though! I'm going to very impatiently waiting for the next book lol. Candi and Armani have such great chemistry, and the story is packed full of lies, deceit, and drama - Captive Bride is a real page turner, and you'll be hooked from the very first page. I can't wait for more!
November 20, 2022
I was looking forward to Armani’s book and it doesn’t disappoint. He’s just as dark and sinful as you might think. I enjoyed the dynamics in this book and I’m looking forward to reading the next in the series.
November 21, 2022
Captive bride held my interest from the first page, it follows a wine seller and a mafia family.
This is an interconnected series however I’ve only read this book and didn’t have a hard time connecting the dots.
It is book 1 of 3 so currently incomplete and leaves off on a cliffhanger.
-
This is an interconnected series however I’ve only read this book and didn’t have a hard time connecting the dots.
It is book 1 of 3 so currently incomplete and leaves off on a cliffhanger.
-
December 15, 2022
We’re left there with that teaser for the next book?!?!?!?? And now have to wait months?!!!?!?
Candi works as a seller of wines and we learn very early on that she’s also spying for someone on the Bellanti family. Only, they actually know what she’s doing and are humoring her. So much so that Armani moved Candi in with him to keep her closer.
But Candi still thinks the Bellanti is up to no good and is the reason they have a fire at their docks. But when she walks in on something she’s not supposed to see, Armani marries her to keep her closer and flip who she’s the mole for.
This is book one in a trilogy and leaves off on a cliffhanger.
I was immediately drawn into this world and loved the chemistry between Candi and Armani. I can’t wait to see how her being in love with him will play out and if Armani will eventually admit that he has feelings for her too. I also can’t wait to see how dark this tale gets as it skirts a dark romance just a bit. And I can see it getting worse before getting better!
I received an advanced review copy for free from the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Candi works as a seller of wines and we learn very early on that she’s also spying for someone on the Bellanti family. Only, they actually know what she’s doing and are humoring her. So much so that Armani moved Candi in with him to keep her closer.
But Candi still thinks the Bellanti is up to no good and is the reason they have a fire at their docks. But when she walks in on something she’s not supposed to see, Armani marries her to keep her closer and flip who she’s the mole for.
This is book one in a trilogy and leaves off on a cliffhanger.
I was immediately drawn into this world and loved the chemistry between Candi and Armani. I can’t wait to see how her being in love with him will play out and if Armani will eventually admit that he has feelings for her too. I also can’t wait to see how dark this tale gets as it skirts a dark romance just a bit. And I can see it getting worse before getting better!
I received an advanced review copy for free from the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 13, 2023
edited to include audiobook review
Ever since I read Marcos' story, I've been intrigued by Armani. He was described almost as the "enforcer" of their mafia shenanigans. His story revolves around figuring out who their mole is. There's been so many things happen to Frankie (Dante's wife) and her sisters, as well as with Karina (Marcos' wife). Frankie reveals to Candi or Cassandra (Armani's love interest) that Armani has always been the one who's made her feel comfortable when she went to live in the house. Now, it's Candi's turn to dragged into the house with these three men and their wives.
Armani wants proposes a somewhat indecent proposal to Candi where she must live in their house and share a bedroom with Armani. Eventually, they find themselves involved in so much more than sharing a bed and warmth. Rings are nested on their fingers. And the mole Armani has been set out to find - well, it's closer than the brothers thought. Armani suspects her. Everything bad that happens to their wine warehouses seems to point to Candi.
Reading and listening to books are different experiences. I don't know why at the time, I felt like I didn't quite enjoy the book when I first read it. Not in terms that I didn't like it but in terms of that I read it too fast. Listening to it now, I feel like I've got a better understanding of what's happening.
As usual book 1 ends in a cliffhanger that will continue into book 2.
𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕:
• arranged marriage/forced marriage
• billionaire romance
• boss x employee/workplace romance
• boy + girl obsessed
• captive romance
• dark and broody mmc
• enemies with benefits
• forced proximity/one bed
• grumpy x sunshine elements
• mafia romance
• morally grey
January 13, 2024
Great start to the story, good chemistry with everyone. Not a lot of mafia stuff, or family issues especially with the Winery. Time to see if Candi gets out of the doghouse, and how does she work it out with her bestie.
November 30, 2022
Wow! Page turner indeed! This story is captivating, sexy, steamy, intriguing, intense, emotional rollercoaster, and dangerously addictive—it will keep you on the edge of your seat!
All’s fair in love and war, right? But what happens when the line between the two becomes blurred? I was not expecting that cliffhanger! I was thinking this story was going to go one way when BAM—out of nowhere it turns! This is book 7 of the Bellanti Brothers, and this is Armani Bellanti and Candi Gallagher’s story. Candi is ensnared between Armani and her BFF and confidant, Juliana, who is related to Sergio Bruno, nemesis of the Bellantis. “I was supposed to get close to him…but Armani keeps his secrets closer. There is nothing he won’t do for his family.” Will fate force Candi to choose between love and betrayal? Candi has always had a crush on Armani—the dark, brooding, and more than a little dangerous Bellanti brother. Although Candi worked for the Bellantis, she did something that put Armani and his family in danger. Not of her own volition, but that of the Brunos. Now, the Bellanti’s nemesis is trying to start a war again making the truce null and void. The threat against Armani’s life and that of his family is now more discernible than ever. Armani feels deceived by Candi, the beautiful feisty, sassy and obstinate woman he propositioned to live with him for six months. “You keep your friends close, your enemies closer….” What will Armani do now? Did Candi betray Armani? Who will Candi prove her loyalty to—Armani or Juliana? What happens next? Well, read this amazing story and find out—you won’t regret it! 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 powerful, addictive, intriguing, and all-consuming Mafia romantic story that will lure you into the wee hours and beyond. I highly RECOMMEND this book! I can’t wait to read the next book. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
All’s fair in love and war, right? But what happens when the line between the two becomes blurred? I was not expecting that cliffhanger! I was thinking this story was going to go one way when BAM—out of nowhere it turns! This is book 7 of the Bellanti Brothers, and this is Armani Bellanti and Candi Gallagher’s story. Candi is ensnared between Armani and her BFF and confidant, Juliana, who is related to Sergio Bruno, nemesis of the Bellantis. “I was supposed to get close to him…but Armani keeps his secrets closer. There is nothing he won’t do for his family.” Will fate force Candi to choose between love and betrayal? Candi has always had a crush on Armani—the dark, brooding, and more than a little dangerous Bellanti brother. Although Candi worked for the Bellantis, she did something that put Armani and his family in danger. Not of her own volition, but that of the Brunos. Now, the Bellanti’s nemesis is trying to start a war again making the truce null and void. The threat against Armani’s life and that of his family is now more discernible than ever. Armani feels deceived by Candi, the beautiful feisty, sassy and obstinate woman he propositioned to live with him for six months. “You keep your friends close, your enemies closer….” What will Armani do now? Did Candi betray Armani? Who will Candi prove her loyalty to—Armani or Juliana? What happens next? Well, read this amazing story and find out—you won’t regret it! 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 powerful, addictive, intriguing, and all-consuming Mafia romantic story that will lure you into the wee hours and beyond. I highly RECOMMEND this book! I can’t wait to read the next book. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
December 13, 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 think I've been waiting for Armani's book since the first Bellanti Brother novel. That sexual tension and edge of danger has been stealing the show for me in all the other books since and I can't wait to uncover the truth behind the middle Bellanti brother.
I was a little surprised by how tame this book was for the vast majority of it given how ruthless Armani has been in the past and the proposed drama. But I didn't mind getting a less suspenseful start because it gave Candi and Armani time to grow as the lead characters. They have been important side characters in the past but mysterious ones so I enjoyed slowly peeling back their layers and finding their true selves.
There's plenty of heat though. WOWZA these two have some intense chemistry! Their moments of passion where everything I wanted it to be after waiting 6 books for their story. I loved watching them fight their connection while trying to remain loyal to their respective families. It's forbidden romance at its finest!
The overarching Bellanti Family dramatic plotline picks up in the latter half of this novel with a vengeance. That's when the danger and the darkness seeps in to take this story to another level. I really love how I have no idea where this is going to go...and I can't wait to find out!
Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!
Full Review: TBP
Actual Rating: 4/5
I think I've been waiting for Armani's book since the first Bellanti Brother novel. That sexual tension and edge of danger has been stealing the show for me in all the other books since and I can't wait to uncover the truth behind the middle Bellanti brother.
I was a little surprised by how tame this book was for the vast majority of it given how ruthless Armani has been in the past and the proposed drama. But I didn't mind getting a less suspenseful start because it gave Candi and Armani time to grow as the lead characters. They have been important side characters in the past but mysterious ones so I enjoyed slowly peeling back their layers and finding their true selves.
There's plenty of heat though. WOWZA these two have some intense chemistry! Their moments of passion where everything I wanted it to be after waiting 6 books for their story. I loved watching them fight their connection while trying to remain loyal to their respective families. It's forbidden romance at its finest!
The overarching Bellanti Family dramatic plotline picks up in the latter half of this novel with a vengeance. That's when the danger and the darkness seeps in to take this story to another level. I really love how I have no idea where this is going to go...and I can't wait to find out!
Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!
Full Review: TBP
Actual Rating: 4/5
October 30, 2023
🎧 AUDIO REVIEW 🎧
Narrators: Stephanie Rose & Aaron Shedlock
This is the story of the 3rd brother in the Belanti family (though he is the middle brother). He has decided that Candi, who works for thier vinyard in sales, is a mole for the Bruno family. So he decides to keep her close to him. So he has her move in and tells her that she needs to give him 6 months to make her fall in love with him..... well she does. And her friend thinks that it's great because then she can spy on the Belanti family better if she is living in thier compound.
Well let's just say that it doesn't go the way she plans. Candi starts to fall in love with Armani and begins feeling like she is actually a part of the family..... until she goes with Armai to Vegas..... and that is when things take a turn for her. This is book 1 of 3 and with the slight cliffhanger that ended this book I am chomping at the bit to finish this review so that I can go start the next book!
The narration was great! Stephanie and Aaron were perfection! And I am looking forward to hearing more about Candi & Armani from them. There was a good amount of spice in this book, but kinda lacking in the swoon and angst department. And I am loving the story line. I feel like there will be more swooning later on when Armani starts to fall for Candi and his walls start to come down.... that is probably when the angst will arrive too!!
Story 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Swoon 😍😍😍
Angst 💔💔💔
Narration 👏👏👏👏👏
Narrators: Stephanie Rose & Aaron Shedlock
This is the story of the 3rd brother in the Belanti family (though he is the middle brother). He has decided that Candi, who works for thier vinyard in sales, is a mole for the Bruno family. So he decides to keep her close to him. So he has her move in and tells her that she needs to give him 6 months to make her fall in love with him..... well she does. And her friend thinks that it's great because then she can spy on the Belanti family better if she is living in thier compound.
Well let's just say that it doesn't go the way she plans. Candi starts to fall in love with Armani and begins feeling like she is actually a part of the family..... until she goes with Armai to Vegas..... and that is when things take a turn for her. This is book 1 of 3 and with the slight cliffhanger that ended this book I am chomping at the bit to finish this review so that I can go start the next book!
The narration was great! Stephanie and Aaron were perfection! And I am looking forward to hearing more about Candi & Armani from them. There was a good amount of spice in this book, but kinda lacking in the swoon and angst department. And I am loving the story line. I feel like there will be more swooning later on when Armani starts to fall for Candi and his walls start to come down.... that is probably when the angst will arrive too!!
Story 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Swoon 😍😍😍
Angst 💔💔💔
Narration 👏👏👏👏👏
November 28, 2022
YES! I knew a book about Armani Bellanti was going to be dark and delicious, and I was right! This is Book #7, but it is the first book in this series to be about Armani and his somewhat devious mind. I totally enjoyed getting a look into what makes him do what he does. He's very Alpha, very controlling, and very much in charge of keeping what's his safe!
Armani knows there is a mole in their family business and he has a pretty good idea who it is. As Armani says, "keep your friends close and your enemies closer." He does exactly that in this book, manipulating his suspect mole, the somewhat naive Candi, and keeping her very close. Their personal relationship has been simmering for years, but Armani is about to turn that pot up to a boil. The chemistry between them is combustible! Of course, Candi has her own agenda which she's not doing a great job at sticking to. Armani is a formiddable force to reckon with, that's for sure! I could not stop turning the pages.
This story is just getting started, but it was filled with intrigue, action and steaminess that was off-the-charts hot. Some of the mob stuff is downright creepy. I'm loving Armani and screaming my head off at naive Candi. I can't wait to find out what happens next. Get this series on your TBR list and enjoy!
Armani knows there is a mole in their family business and he has a pretty good idea who it is. As Armani says, "keep your friends close and your enemies closer." He does exactly that in this book, manipulating his suspect mole, the somewhat naive Candi, and keeping her very close. Their personal relationship has been simmering for years, but Armani is about to turn that pot up to a boil. The chemistry between them is combustible! Of course, Candi has her own agenda which she's not doing a great job at sticking to. Armani is a formiddable force to reckon with, that's for sure! I could not stop turning the pages.
This story is just getting started, but it was filled with intrigue, action and steaminess that was off-the-charts hot. Some of the mob stuff is downright creepy. I'm loving Armani and screaming my head off at naive Candi. I can't wait to find out what happens next. Get this series on your TBR list and enjoy!
December 1, 2022
He moves closer, to the edge of the desk, then leans against it while looking down at me.
Lion, meet mouse.
Fuck.
“No. I’m saying you’re mine for six months.” His dark eyes dare me to argue.
—
Y’all. This book sucked me in. Addictive and free flowing we find Candi in a predicament after Armani asked her to move in under false pretenses for work and telling her she’d fall in love with him within 6 months — the amount of time he wanted her to stay.
With Juliana’s coaxing, she’s dead center of a dangerous game as she’s supposed to be feeding information on the family back to take them down. Her lines start to become blurred as she sees the Bellanti for who they really are intimately. Being played from every side, she struggles to keep secrets hidden.
Playing a deadly game in a house of dangerous men, she has to watch her step every waking moment.
The 50% on, I was invested in the story, the characters. Everything. I’m pretty sure I sat crying… a lot of it. To see what Candi goes through as a whole, the betrayal and the consequences of her actions in the den of wolves. We got to see both of Armani, and got to see the intimacy of their family and the pride they have making their top shelf wine.
The characters were rich in depth and well enough written to make me fall in love with them, then hate, then love again. And enough to shock me with the switch of Armani and his family after the big shocking moment happens. I am SO excited for the next chapter in Armani and Candis story and I absolutely cannot wait.
Lion, meet mouse.
Fuck.
“No. I’m saying you’re mine for six months.” His dark eyes dare me to argue.
—
Y’all. This book sucked me in. Addictive and free flowing we find Candi in a predicament after Armani asked her to move in under false pretenses for work and telling her she’d fall in love with him within 6 months — the amount of time he wanted her to stay.
With Juliana’s coaxing, she’s dead center of a dangerous game as she’s supposed to be feeding information on the family back to take them down. Her lines start to become blurred as she sees the Bellanti for who they really are intimately. Being played from every side, she struggles to keep secrets hidden.
Playing a deadly game in a house of dangerous men, she has to watch her step every waking moment.
The 50% on, I was invested in the story, the characters. Everything. I’m pretty sure I sat crying… a lot of it. To see what Candi goes through as a whole, the betrayal and the consequences of her actions in the den of wolves. We got to see both of Armani, and got to see the intimacy of their family and the pride they have making their top shelf wine.
The characters were rich in depth and well enough written to make me fall in love with them, then hate, then love again. And enough to shock me with the switch of Armani and his family after the big shocking moment happens. I am SO excited for the next chapter in Armani and Candis story and I absolutely cannot wait.
skim-read
April 28, 2023I think this works better when I skim read the author’s books. She always has very strong first books and then the tension and story is less strong in the subsequent books like we’re losing steam. But skim reading through this makes the book much more enjoyable?
This trilogy is part of an overarching series of the Bellanti Brothers with Dante (and the oldest brother) being the first set of 3, Marco (the youngest) being the next set of 3, and now we’re here with Armani (the middle child) at the end.
I read the first 2 Dante books so I did know I wanted Armani’s books and I guess the rest didn’t really draw me in? But I skim read this one and enjoyed it.
These books aren’t particularly DARK dark romance when it comes to mafia romances, but they’re okay. I think it helps here that Armani is the one character that has embraced the mafia lifestyle while in the first 2 books with Dante, I don’t think we even saw him hold a gun. It was weird.
I like Candi. She is mid/late-20s and very business minded. Very opinionated and strong willed. Also, has a cute fluffy cat. Armani is NOT cat person, but I wonder if they’ll have a lot of cats by the end of the series just because he claims he hates them so much. He’ll come around I think.
This trilogy is part of an overarching series of the Bellanti Brothers with Dante (and the oldest brother) being the first set of 3, Marco (the youngest) being the next set of 3, and now we’re here with Armani (the middle child) at the end.
I read the first 2 Dante books so I did know I wanted Armani’s books and I guess the rest didn’t really draw me in? But I skim read this one and enjoyed it.
These books aren’t particularly DARK dark romance when it comes to mafia romances, but they’re okay. I think it helps here that Armani is the one character that has embraced the mafia lifestyle while in the first 2 books with Dante, I don’t think we even saw him hold a gun. It was weird.
I like Candi. She is mid/late-20s and very business minded. Very opinionated and strong willed. Also, has a cute fluffy cat. Armani is NOT cat person, but I wonder if they’ll have a lot of cats by the end of the series just because he claims he hates them so much. He’ll come around I think.
December 9, 2022
Captive Bride is the first book in the Captive Series which is the intriguing story of Armani Bellanti, the security expert and protector of the Bellanti Mafia Family, and Candi Gallagher, the top sales representative for the Bellanti vineyards who has a major secret. Both Candi and Armani are attracted to each other but he suspects she may be a mole trying to infiltrate the family’s business which could endanger the Bellanti family members. Armani develops a plan to have Candi under close observation and hopefully uncover her secrets, however, she has no intention of revealing her secrets. This is a well written dark mafia romance with fantastic characters, steamy chemistry, unexpected twists, suspense, distrust, and a surprising cliffhanger. I highly recommend this addictive read by Stella Gray. The story of Armani and Candi continues in the next book, Captive Rival.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 11, 2023
I was supposed to get close to him…but Armani keeps his secrets closer. Everyone knows that Armani is the most dangerous Bellanti brother. No one knows what he’s capable of. I do know there is nothing he won’t do for his family. For months, I’ve interacted with the dark, broody man. The way he looks at me moves the earth under my feet. His touch makes my skin tingle. But I’ve had my own agenda. Okay Now about Armani Bellanti who in book 1 was a quiet, broody computer geek decided to somehow in this series swap personalities with his brither Dante who is the head of the family, tough and broody. Now Armani runs the family and is the brutal one who dishes out the punishment and torture ( even though in the first series he apparently hated violence as he couldn't get it out of his mind). I just did not like him at all, I cannot understand why no-one new more about Candy in this book and it did leave it on a cliffhanger.
December 23, 2023
My Rating: 5/5
My Thoughts: Stella Gray's books are so underrated. Her stories are captivating, steamy, and filled with angst and drama. I love binge-reading her books. I have been waiting to read Armani's story since the beginning. He's always been the cold and calculative brother of the three Ballanti brothers. After reading Marco's story with the ending twist I was excited to see how Candi's story would play out with this family. Candi works for the Ballanti's winery and is close friends with Frankie - Dante's wife. She has always had flirtatious banter with Armani. No one could've expected that she was a spy for a rival family. Armani's methods of getting information out of Candi are futile. Add a few twists and drama; what they thought was true could turn their world upside down as revelations emerge. I can't wait to continue their story and unveil more of the mystery between these two.
My Thoughts: Stella Gray's books are so underrated. Her stories are captivating, steamy, and filled with angst and drama. I love binge-reading her books. I have been waiting to read Armani's story since the beginning. He's always been the cold and calculative brother of the three Ballanti brothers. After reading Marco's story with the ending twist I was excited to see how Candi's story would play out with this family. Candi works for the Ballanti's winery and is close friends with Frankie - Dante's wife. She has always had flirtatious banter with Armani. No one could've expected that she was a spy for a rival family. Armani's methods of getting information out of Candi are futile. Add a few twists and drama; what they thought was true could turn their world upside down as revelations emerge. I can't wait to continue their story and unveil more of the mystery between these two.
December 10, 2022
I've always enjoyed the flirtatious banter between our heroine, Candi, and our Hero, Armani, when she was first introduced in the first series with Dante and Frankie. Although not mandatory, the reader would have greater appreciation for the details that unfold in this story if the stories are read in order, especially since the playful dynamic between Candi and Armani, takes a turn in the opposite direction. Armani uncovers information that continues to threaten his family's lives as they try to leave their father's mafia legacy behind. Spending more time together Armani shows his warm, Dr. Jekyll moments (usually while they're in bed), but can flip into his darker Mr. Hyde persona which has Candi constantly worrying whether he will uncover her secrets. The intrigue is only beginning since this story leaves us hanging for the next book!
February 7, 2023
The start of Armani and Candi’s story, and what a start it is!
It’s an ongoing goal for Armani and his brothers to get out of the mafia since their father passed. They own a winery as a start. Candi has worked there for two years, being talked into it by her best friend to get information from the Bellanti’s. Her best friend’s uncle is an opposing mafia family whose goal is to rule the mafia world. Is Armani onto her being the mole? To say the least, they’ve been attracted to one another for all the time she’s worked there. This story shows Armani’s softer side, going into his dark side. Will Candi find out she’s got a dark side, too? When were they married? Was she lied to by her best friend? Such a wonderful and intriguing, mysterious, dark, suspenseful, steamy start to this story.
It’s an ongoing goal for Armani and his brothers to get out of the mafia since their father passed. They own a winery as a start. Candi has worked there for two years, being talked into it by her best friend to get information from the Bellanti’s. Her best friend’s uncle is an opposing mafia family whose goal is to rule the mafia world. Is Armani onto her being the mole? To say the least, they’ve been attracted to one another for all the time she’s worked there. This story shows Armani’s softer side, going into his dark side. Will Candi find out she’s got a dark side, too? When were they married? Was she lied to by her best friend? Such a wonderful and intriguing, mysterious, dark, suspenseful, steamy start to this story.
November 30, 2022
I'm already a fan of Stella Gray and I love the bellanti brothers from Broken Bride (Dante and Frankie) ,but I have to say that Armani story been my favorite so far I can't wait for the next 2 books to be published. Spoiler alert! Armani offer Candi A deal, to move with him for 6 months. He want her close cause he found out she is spying for his rivals the Bruno family. Candi's best friend convinced her to spy for the Brunos since she is a Bruno niece. Armani and Candi story have a lot of sexy steaming scenes. But the story have a lot of intrigue and turns I read it in just one night cause I could not put the book down.
December 3, 2022
This book is full of lies, deciet and betrayal.
Tricked into a relationship where she is unknowingly held captive, Candi is then forced into a marriage.
But there is an attraction between her and Amani that can't be ignored.
This is a mafia romance and not everything is roses and sunshine. There are dark parts to this story that ends in a cliffhanger.
Candi's niavety is a little annoying at times but you soon realise that she just wants to see the good in people.
Amani is the darkest of the Ballanti brothers, whose stories are told before this one.
I have not read the other stories and I could easily follow along this story line.
Tricked into a relationship where she is unknowingly held captive, Candi is then forced into a marriage.
But there is an attraction between her and Amani that can't be ignored.
This is a mafia romance and not everything is roses and sunshine. There are dark parts to this story that ends in a cliffhanger.
Candi's niavety is a little annoying at times but you soon realise that she just wants to see the good in people.
Amani is the darkest of the Ballanti brothers, whose stories are told before this one.
I have not read the other stories and I could easily follow along this story line.
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