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Restless Kings #1
Rise of the King
Forevers don’t exist when you’re on the run.
Amelia cannot get attached—not to the town or the people in it.
And definitely not to the tall, dark, and handsome mafia prince who sweet-talks his way past her carefully built walls.
Why put yourself through that, knowing it’ll all be ripped away when you leave?
And she will have to leave.
This life isn’t hers to keep.
Sam calls her Snow, like the fairy-tale princess.
But her life is far from a fairy tale.
Even a prince can’t change that.
For Sam Beneventi, there’s a difference between his family and The Family.
He’s been raised to one day take control of The Family, putting that above all else.
Strength and power are all that matter.
Weakness isn’t an option. It’s an excuse. And Sam never makes excuses.
Until his future walks into his life and blows it up with one single bullet.
When the lost princess stumbles into this mafia prince’s city, all bets are off.
And Amelia is all he sees.
To keep her safe, it’s time for Sam to take control.
To take the throne.
To wear the crown.
It’s time for the Rise of the King.
Amelia cannot get attached—not to the town or the people in it.
And definitely not to the tall, dark, and handsome mafia prince who sweet-talks his way past her carefully built walls.
Why put yourself through that, knowing it’ll all be ripped away when you leave?
And she will have to leave.
This life isn’t hers to keep.
Sam calls her Snow, like the fairy-tale princess.
But her life is far from a fairy tale.
Even a prince can’t change that.
For Sam Beneventi, there’s a difference between his family and The Family.
He’s been raised to one day take control of The Family, putting that above all else.
Strength and power are all that matter.
Weakness isn’t an option. It’s an excuse. And Sam never makes excuses.
Until his future walks into his life and blows it up with one single bullet.
When the lost princess stumbles into this mafia prince’s city, all bets are off.
And Amelia is all he sees.
To keep her safe, it’s time for Sam to take control.
To take the throne.
To wear the crown.
It’s time for the Rise of the King.
381 pages, Hardcover
First published November 23, 2021
1273 people are currently reading
3124 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 493 reviews
December 28, 2021
3,5 💘💘💘🌟s❗️
An enjoyable light-mafia romance read!
Sam and Amelia were both very likeable and strong characters.
I liked that Sam decided to change his relationship of two-years-friendship with Amelia into a romantic one. The transition was beautiful and their chemistry amazing.
It was very well written and kept my interest, had interesting plot twists, was very well paced and had a lovely epilogue!
There were so many characters that appeared from the The Kings of Kroydon Hills series (which I haven’t read) that my head was aching trying to keep up with all of them. It would have worked definitely better for me if I had read the KKH series prior.
An enjoyable light-mafia romance read!
Sam and Amelia were both very likeable and strong characters.
I liked that Sam decided to change his relationship of two-years-friendship with Amelia into a romantic one. The transition was beautiful and their chemistry amazing.
It was very well written and kept my interest, had interesting plot twists, was very well paced and had a lovely epilogue!
There were so many characters that appeared from the The Kings of Kroydon Hills series (which I haven’t read) that my head was aching trying to keep up with all of them. It would have worked definitely better for me if I had read the KKH series prior.
December 8, 2021
*Thank you to the author and Social Butterfly PR for an eARC of this book.*
Rise of the King is the beginning of a new mafia series that is very unique. I don't think I have read one quite like it before. I don't want to spoil what makes it so unique, but I think it you are a fan of mafia romance, you will be surprised how it all plays out.
Amelia is a baker and she has an interesting friendship with Sam, who is a mafia prince she has known for a few years now. He is a regular in her life and he keeps and eye on her whether she wants him to or not. When some ghosts from her past begin to haunt her and she is thrown closer to Sam than ever before, things get very complicated.
Sam is fascinated by Amelia, who he calls Snow like a fairy tale princess, and he can't seem to stay away from her. When things in his life escalate he doesn't want her involved, even though he can't stay away. But not all of the bad things happening have to do with The Family, and it might not be him who is the dangerous one.
This book was a breath of fresh air in a lot of ways. It was a friends to lovers, slow burn of a mafia romance. I had a great time with it. I am intrigued in where this series will go next.
4/5 stars
Rise of the King is the beginning of a new mafia series that is very unique. I don't think I have read one quite like it before. I don't want to spoil what makes it so unique, but I think it you are a fan of mafia romance, you will be surprised how it all plays out.
Amelia is a baker and she has an interesting friendship with Sam, who is a mafia prince she has known for a few years now. He is a regular in her life and he keeps and eye on her whether she wants him to or not. When some ghosts from her past begin to haunt her and she is thrown closer to Sam than ever before, things get very complicated.
Sam is fascinated by Amelia, who he calls Snow like a fairy tale princess, and he can't seem to stay away from her. When things in his life escalate he doesn't want her involved, even though he can't stay away. But not all of the bad things happening have to do with The Family, and it might not be him who is the dangerous one.
This book was a breath of fresh air in a lot of ways. It was a friends to lovers, slow burn of a mafia romance. I had a great time with it. I am intrigued in where this series will go next.
4/5 stars
February 8, 2022
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
My first 5 star read of the year!!! This book had everything I could ask for and more than I was expecting. It had romance, mystery, suspense, amazing friendships, and an added surprise that I absolutely loved but won't say what it was to avoid spoilers. When I first read Bella Matthews' debut book over a year ago I quickly fell in love with her writing and I knew she was going to end up being a favorite of mine. And I was right even though it's taken me this long to read another one of her books. Which was only because my mood changed and I got more into reading PNR and that became my focus.
Amelia and Sam really had it all and I loved getting to see their relationship progress from friends to more. The lighter parts to this book and characters blended very well with the darker ones. Sam was actually a really cute character, which isn't something I was expecting to say about a mafia guy but the soft side to his personality was so fun to see. And it made the interactions with Amelia all the better and kept a smile on my face.
Bottom line, this is a must read book and I'm already dying to get my hands on more. This starts off a new series but it does include characters from the
The Kings of Kroydon Hills series and getting little hints about those side characters has me racing to go finish that series.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
My first 5 star read of the year!!! This book had everything I could ask for and more than I was expecting. It had romance, mystery, suspense, amazing friendships, and an added surprise that I absolutely loved but won't say what it was to avoid spoilers. When I first read Bella Matthews' debut book over a year ago I quickly fell in love with her writing and I knew she was going to end up being a favorite of mine. And I was right even though it's taken me this long to read another one of her books. Which was only because my mood changed and I got more into reading PNR and that became my focus.
Amelia and Sam really had it all and I loved getting to see their relationship progress from friends to more. The lighter parts to this book and characters blended very well with the darker ones. Sam was actually a really cute character, which isn't something I was expecting to say about a mafia guy but the soft side to his personality was so fun to see. And it made the interactions with Amelia all the better and kept a smile on my face.
Bottom line, this is a must read book and I'm already dying to get my hands on more. This starts off a new series but it does include characters from the
The Kings of Kroydon Hills series and getting little hints about those side characters has me racing to go finish that series.
November 21, 2021
This is the type of book you don’t stop reading.
It’s 3am, and my heart feels full and complete.
Honestly, I loved this book so much I couldn’t even stop.
The book follows Amelia and Sam. And let me tell you, they’re soulmates.
This book had me laughing, gasping, plotting and all in a span of a couple of hours.
It was really well written, the plot was there and intriguing and didn’t let you go.
There were 2 major plot lines, that had me almost throwing my phone to the wall.
It was so beautifully written, especially the ending!
I honestly love when books give you a little more after their HEA.
Their banter, their fights, their teasing was so so good! Their chemistry was amazing, you could feel it.
I’ve never read a book by Bella M. but this is an author I will be checking out. And I can’t wait for Scarlet’s story!
I will be recommending this book as it was a good story!
Tropes: mafia romance. Heroine in danger. Badass heroine. Alpha male/mob boss. Strangers to lovers.
Romance: 3/5. It’s a mafia romance, you can’t expect the cutesy cliche romance
Spicy: 4/5! So good! Not smutty but close enough. They felt classy
It’s 3am, and my heart feels full and complete.
Honestly, I loved this book so much I couldn’t even stop.
The book follows Amelia and Sam. And let me tell you, they’re soulmates.
This book had me laughing, gasping, plotting and all in a span of a couple of hours.
It was really well written, the plot was there and intriguing and didn’t let you go.
There were 2 major plot lines, that had me almost throwing my phone to the wall.
It was so beautifully written, especially the ending!
I honestly love when books give you a little more after their HEA.
Their banter, their fights, their teasing was so so good! Their chemistry was amazing, you could feel it.
I’ve never read a book by Bella M. but this is an author I will be checking out. And I can’t wait for Scarlet’s story!
I will be recommending this book as it was a good story!
Tropes: mafia romance. Heroine in danger. Badass heroine. Alpha male/mob boss. Strangers to lovers.
Romance: 3/5. It’s a mafia romance, you can’t expect the cutesy cliche romance
Spicy: 4/5! So good! Not smutty but close enough. They felt classy
December 17, 2021
Solid world build. Easy to follow. It is clear everyone's place. Storyline, for me felt similar to previous reads along the mafia genre. It was hot at times, but the excitement was predictable. I found the secondary characters more entertaining than the FMC and MC.
I am looking forward to the Kings series...those characters seem more my speed.
Happy reading,
DD 💕
I am looking forward to the Kings series...those characters seem more my speed.
Happy reading,
DD 💕
March 11, 2025
So...
I disliked this book with a passion.
I'll admit I'm not the biggest fan of mafia romances and present tense is not my favorite writing choice, but those are nothing more than personal preferences, and even though typically they'd be enough to dampen my enjoyment of a book, through the years I've actually read books that I ended up liking despite including one or both of these elements.
What I found awful about this book were both the dialogues and the tone.
The ways the characters talked and interacted were unrealistic and, frankly, ridiculous. They communicated by spewing these long, info-dumpy soliloquies, explicitly verbally stating plot points, every single thought and feeling either main character had, and everything that was already plenty obvious from a very basic context analysis.
Hate is a strong word, but it comes close to how I felt every time any character opened their mouth.
Regarding the tone, it was all over the place. The mood of this book was so weird and inconsistent.
Mood is one of the most important things when it comes to writing a good, engaging book. It's what gives a novel its atmosphere, what lets the reader know, through word choice and setting, what we should be feeling. Mafia romances are typically on the darker, grittier side, and to create the right vibe, writers pick and choose their wording to convey this.
But that wasn't the case with this novel. Here, the tone and mood were completely whack. Sam (MMC) was supposed to be a threatening, scary mafia boss, but at times, he behaved like a spoiled toddler.
I can't take seriously a grown man that pouts over cookies. Especially given the fact that this book wasn't a romantic comedy. What, in a different context, may have been cute or sweet, here was just excruciatingly cringey. Because serious mafia romances are not the right place to have powerful men behave like little kids.
There was out-of-place joking, grinning, and laughing during times of grieving and mourning, or instances when the characters were supposed to be grave and solemn. There were random bouts of crying from a girl who was supposedly super self-sufficient and badass. Not only were there inconsistencies tone-wise, but also character-personality-wise.
The only reason I read this book (well, actually I only read a little more than 50%, the other half I just skimmed because I was fed up with it) was because I signed up to review the second title in this series. I'd believed each book could be read as a stand-alone, but that was quickly proven incorrect barely half a chapter in, so I had to hit pause on that one and get through this one first.
Frankly, even though this was the first book of the Restless Kings series, it also relied very heavily on characters and events that I'm guessing have been introduced/taken place in other books, because there were a crap ton of them that showed up or were mentioned in the course of this story with no further explanation of who they were, as if I should have already been familiar with them. Which didn't help improve my overall impression of this book in the slightest.
In good conscience, I can't recommend this book. But my opinion seems to be on the wildly unpopular side, given the exceptionally high rating this novel has. Maybe I'm just overly picky or wasn't in the right mood to read this one 🤷🏻♀️.
2.5⭐
April 6, 2022
Back in February, specifically 02/10 lol, I was scrolling thru Goodreads and a reviewer I follow wrote “My first 5 star read of the year!!!” as part of her review for this book so I said to myself “why not?” and let me tell you guys something … it was one of the best reading decisions I have ever made! #truestory She put Bella Matthews on my radar that day and I haven’t stopped devouring her words since!
Rise of the King was/is one of the most unexpected stories that I have read in a very long time. There is not one specific aspect of the story that stood out because all of it stood out. It’s a blend of suspense with mystery and anticipation. It’s a story of family, friendship, and love. It’s a romance journey between two people as much as it’s a growth journey for those two same people. It’s a magnificently orchestrated sequence of events that fit together like puzzle pieces you don’t see coming. It’s a story of fate that develops and unfolds in a fascinating chain of circumstances that will have you riveted to the story to the point of a sleepless night!
My heart felt like it could hold no more when I finished this book. I felt every single thing that occurred in this journey. The writing is so incredibly easy yet complex at the same time. When I finished, my first thought was “wow, that’s how you write a story with a ton of moving parts and have the reader breeze right thru it like it was any old plot!” Well done!
Sidenote: I didn’t review this story back in February because (I don’t even know why lol) but over this weekend I re-read it before I dove into Broken King and I have to tell you that I loved it just as much today, a mere couple of months after I first read it, as the day I first read it. This is a story you will reread time and again and you’ll love it it every single time. #trust
Rise of the King was/is one of the most unexpected stories that I have read in a very long time. There is not one specific aspect of the story that stood out because all of it stood out. It’s a blend of suspense with mystery and anticipation. It’s a story of family, friendship, and love. It’s a romance journey between two people as much as it’s a growth journey for those two same people. It’s a magnificently orchestrated sequence of events that fit together like puzzle pieces you don’t see coming. It’s a story of fate that develops and unfolds in a fascinating chain of circumstances that will have you riveted to the story to the point of a sleepless night!
My heart felt like it could hold no more when I finished this book. I felt every single thing that occurred in this journey. The writing is so incredibly easy yet complex at the same time. When I finished, my first thought was “wow, that’s how you write a story with a ton of moving parts and have the reader breeze right thru it like it was any old plot!” Well done!
Sidenote: I didn’t review this story back in February because (I don’t even know why lol) but over this weekend I re-read it before I dove into Broken King and I have to tell you that I loved it just as much today, a mere couple of months after I first read it, as the day I first read it. This is a story you will reread time and again and you’ll love it it every single time. #trust
March 7, 2022
Loved it!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5)
Trope: friends to lovers
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥
Amelia is a girl in hiding. And when her top notch gun skills draw the attention of a mafia prince, she's afraid to hope for any kind of forever. Once Sam Beneventi has Amelia in his sights, he can be patient, but he's not letting go - regardless of the major curve balls heading their way.
I really enjoyed this story! At first, I did feel kind of lost, like there was a character dynamic I was supposed to know about , but didn't. It did clear up and then we get an interesting storyline that is well written with a perfect amount of twists and turns. I loved Sam and Amelia together, they truly seemed perfect for each other. Really looking forward to Scarlet's book!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5)
Trope: friends to lovers
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥
Amelia is a girl in hiding. And when her top notch gun skills draw the attention of a mafia prince, she's afraid to hope for any kind of forever. Once Sam Beneventi has Amelia in his sights, he can be patient, but he's not letting go - regardless of the major curve balls heading their way.
I really enjoyed this story! At first, I did feel kind of lost, like there was a character dynamic I was supposed to know about , but didn't. It did clear up and then we get an interesting storyline that is well written with a perfect amount of twists and turns. I loved Sam and Amelia together, they truly seemed perfect for each other. Really looking forward to Scarlet's book!
December 11, 2021
I couldn’t put this down. I loved all of Bella Matthews books. But this one? Hands down my favorite. I can’t wait to read more in this series. Hooked!
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November 23, 2021
Seriously, what can't Bella write?! Sports, tick, Swoony, tick, Spicy, tick, Funny, tick, and now Mafia?! BIG TICK!
Bella is the most versatile author I have come across, and seeing the different styles and plots that have evolved from her book baby (All in) to now with Rise of the King, well it's just been such a pleasure to witness.
Bella's words, characters and world building are like liquid gold, so beautiful and captivating. Shes created the most amazing community in Kroydon Hills, every time we get gifted a new book it's a whole new piece to the puzzle and it's so exciting and amazing to see a compete 360° view of everything that's going on from everyone's different perspectives.
There's never going to be enough words to do this justice. This has to be spoiler free because we're a little way off release yet and also you have to go into this without knowing where it's going to take you, because WOW, it is one intricate and intense plot, and it's going to have you glued to your Kindles the second you pick it up.
If you've been following the Kings of Kroydon Hills series then you're going to have already met beautiful Amelia and sexier than sin, Mafia Prince Sammy Beneventi. Oh gosh, when I tell you this man is SO FINE, I mean I drool over him, I swoon over him, HE 👏🏻 IS 👏🏻 EVERYTHING 👏🏻
The whole book is so diverse, I've read my fair share of mafia, and I know it's a favourite trope for a lot of us in this community and lemme tell you the mafia scene was on point! Executed to perfect! You've got parts that are going to make you laugh, make you get hearts in your eyes and parts that are going to make you break a sweat. Its vivid, exciting and the twists will keep you on your toes!
Rise of the King is 100% perfection, wrapped up in all that good stuff we seek. So if you love all of these things too then I IMPLORE you to get your hands all over Sammy as soon as you can, because this is *chefs kiss*
Bella is the most versatile author I have come across, and seeing the different styles and plots that have evolved from her book baby (All in) to now with Rise of the King, well it's just been such a pleasure to witness.
Bella's words, characters and world building are like liquid gold, so beautiful and captivating. Shes created the most amazing community in Kroydon Hills, every time we get gifted a new book it's a whole new piece to the puzzle and it's so exciting and amazing to see a compete 360° view of everything that's going on from everyone's different perspectives.
There's never going to be enough words to do this justice. This has to be spoiler free because we're a little way off release yet and also you have to go into this without knowing where it's going to take you, because WOW, it is one intricate and intense plot, and it's going to have you glued to your Kindles the second you pick it up.
If you've been following the Kings of Kroydon Hills series then you're going to have already met beautiful Amelia and sexier than sin, Mafia Prince Sammy Beneventi. Oh gosh, when I tell you this man is SO FINE, I mean I drool over him, I swoon over him, HE 👏🏻 IS 👏🏻 EVERYTHING 👏🏻
The whole book is so diverse, I've read my fair share of mafia, and I know it's a favourite trope for a lot of us in this community and lemme tell you the mafia scene was on point! Executed to perfect! You've got parts that are going to make you laugh, make you get hearts in your eyes and parts that are going to make you break a sweat. Its vivid, exciting and the twists will keep you on your toes!
Rise of the King is 100% perfection, wrapped up in all that good stuff we seek. So if you love all of these things too then I IMPLORE you to get your hands all over Sammy as soon as you can, because this is *chefs kiss*
December 2, 2021
“You’ve always been mine, Snow. I just needed you to catch up.”
And with that one sentence, Sam absolutely melted me.
Not only was Sam patient, caring and loving, he was also protective, all kinds of delicious sexiness, wrapped in an alpha package.
Amelia wormed her way into my heart long ago and I couldn't be more happy for her to get her HEA.
It may have come with a lot of struggles, uncertainty, worry, and loss but no one deserved it more than Snow.
I'm always a little gobsmacked when I finish one of Bella's books. Between the crazy these characters possess (it's the best possible kind), the suspense, the steam, the feelings... I'm always in a state of awe—and lusting over fictional characters—when I finish.
And the tease for the next book? *Chef's kiss* I'm definitely here for that one.
And with that one sentence, Sam absolutely melted me.
Not only was Sam patient, caring and loving, he was also protective, all kinds of delicious sexiness, wrapped in an alpha package.
Amelia wormed her way into my heart long ago and I couldn't be more happy for her to get her HEA.
It may have come with a lot of struggles, uncertainty, worry, and loss but no one deserved it more than Snow.
I'm always a little gobsmacked when I finish one of Bella's books. Between the crazy these characters possess (it's the best possible kind), the suspense, the steam, the feelings... I'm always in a state of awe—and lusting over fictional characters—when I finish.
And the tease for the next book? *Chef's kiss* I'm definitely here for that one.
November 23, 2021
Our queen Bella has done it again. I don’t see how I fall in love with her characters more with each book. Even as each series branches out.
Sammy is such the alpha. I love he is the big bad mafia boss to everyone. Then to Amelia he is nothing but a big teddy bear. Amelia is one tough cookie and we see that she is not even close to being a weak as she thinks she is. If there are two people who belong together it’s these two.
I could have read a whole other book about Sam and Amelia and I don’t think it would be enough. These two are amazing together and I hope we get more of them in the rest of this series.
Also Bella you know I have to thro out there I am extremely happy that you gave me a little dose of Coop in there. Because we all know Coop is mine!!
Sammy is such the alpha. I love he is the big bad mafia boss to everyone. Then to Amelia he is nothing but a big teddy bear. Amelia is one tough cookie and we see that she is not even close to being a weak as she thinks she is. If there are two people who belong together it’s these two.
I could have read a whole other book about Sam and Amelia and I don’t think it would be enough. These two are amazing together and I hope we get more of them in the rest of this series.
Also Bella you know I have to thro out there I am extremely happy that you gave me a little dose of Coop in there. Because we all know Coop is mine!!
December 9, 2021
Yay!!!! Sam's story is finally here! And we find out why Amelia was on the run. I love this series and I'm delighted that we get to experience all of the Kingston family with the start of this series. I can't wait for Scarlets book, its gonna take some man to break the Ice Queen!
April 24, 2025
Okay, okay, okay, okay… I just finished this book and, honestly, it was an absolute masterpiece, okay? Did you not get that? It was FANTASTIC. Let’s be clear: this author did not come to play. She gave us a parade of tropes that cover everything. We’ve got sports romance, best friend’s brother, stepbrother, accidental situation, accidental baby—everything. Literally every trope you can imagine is here.
But what makes this book special? The fact that it has everything and executes it perfectly. We get a beautiful friends-to-lovers arc, intense action, plot twists, and let’s not forget—an absolutely divine man who, listen to me, kisses the ground you walk on. And the female lead? Please. Amelia is simply outstanding. Strong, determined, unforgettable. I’m officially obsessed with her.
And Samuel… oh, Samuel. What can I even say about you? I have to admit, I started reading this author’s books a bit out of order. I read one where he appeared, got intrigued, and then jumped into the one about his daughter. But of course, after that I had to know the backstory between her parents. And now? Now it all makes sense. It was brutally good. Truly, not a single badly written line.
This book is so well done from start to finish, I have zero complaints. I’m giving it, without hesitation, the best five stars I’ve handed out in the past 24 hours. And now, the only thing I need is for this author to write more mafia books like this—intense, full, unforgettable.
But what makes this book special? The fact that it has everything and executes it perfectly. We get a beautiful friends-to-lovers arc, intense action, plot twists, and let’s not forget—an absolutely divine man who, listen to me, kisses the ground you walk on. And the female lead? Please. Amelia is simply outstanding. Strong, determined, unforgettable. I’m officially obsessed with her.
And Samuel… oh, Samuel. What can I even say about you? I have to admit, I started reading this author’s books a bit out of order. I read one where he appeared, got intrigued, and then jumped into the one about his daughter. But of course, after that I had to know the backstory between her parents. And now? Now it all makes sense. It was brutally good. Truly, not a single badly written line.
This book is so well done from start to finish, I have zero complaints. I’m giving it, without hesitation, the best five stars I’ve handed out in the past 24 hours. And now, the only thing I need is for this author to write more mafia books like this—intense, full, unforgettable.
October 2, 2025
“The whole city will kneel down to me, but I’ll only ever kneel for you.”
Lord I love a good mafia romance & The Beneventis just do something to me. I couldn’t wait for Sam & Amelia’s story & it was everything I hoped for & more🖤 Sam is the definition of touch her & ☠️
Lord I love a good mafia romance & The Beneventis just do something to me. I couldn’t wait for Sam & Amelia’s story & it was everything I hoped for & more🖤 Sam is the definition of touch her & ☠️
December 9, 2021
Wow wow wow!!!! Couldn’t put it down! Sam and Amelia are so perfect.
September 4, 2022
Listened in audio.
Rise Of The King is my first Bella Matthews book but it definitely won’t be my last.
This is a mafia, friends to romance book with some lol moments that I wasn’t expecting and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The tension and the friendship between Sam and Amelia was amazing but my favourite thing about the whole book was the big bad mafia boss who had an obsession with baked goods!
I can’t wait to read more books in this series as I loved the side characters.
Rise Of The King is my first Bella Matthews book but it definitely won’t be my last.
This is a mafia, friends to romance book with some lol moments that I wasn’t expecting and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The tension and the friendship between Sam and Amelia was amazing but my favourite thing about the whole book was the big bad mafia boss who had an obsession with baked goods!
I can’t wait to read more books in this series as I loved the side characters.
December 8, 2021
Unputdownable, Totally Swoony, Sexy and loaded with mafia action ride ahead 😍😍
AHH.. Oh my.. I couldn't put down this book at all. Even though it's freaking late in the night, but I couldn't get enough of Sam and Amelia. Gorgeous freaking Gorgeous.
Page 1 and I was swept away with the dangerous tone set at the beginning itself. Amelia has been taught to be the best shot and since then has lived her life on the run. But now that she's settled and made friends who are more like family to her in this town, she doesn't really want to leave.
Sam.. THAT MAN.. OH MY. SIGH!! 😍😍
Sam's wants Amelia right from the time he set his eyes on her. But has given her space and time and yet protects her. He's obliged to The Family that his father is boss of and one day, Sam will be taking his place.
What he didn't anticipate was the girl of his dreams to have a past full of secrets and how both their worlds unknowingly would collide.
I adorer Sam just the way he does Amelia. He's dangerous and yet when it comes to the people he loves, there's nothing he wouldn't do to protect them.
I loved that man for how incredible he was with Amelia and sure about wanting her as the only woman. How even though he has to tackle major problems in a row yet for him she's his queen.
This one was such a fantastically perfect mix of Swoony Romance, all the feels, lies and deceit and action and secrets and danger. I felt like I had a scrumptious, simply delightful full course dinner date meal with this one.
Trust me on this. READ READ IT. Don't dive into the blurb but just dive into this delectable read. Sam and Amelia will totally blow your mind and will take you on an incredible journey.
Loved loved this one. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
AHH.. Oh my.. I couldn't put down this book at all. Even though it's freaking late in the night, but I couldn't get enough of Sam and Amelia. Gorgeous freaking Gorgeous.
Page 1 and I was swept away with the dangerous tone set at the beginning itself. Amelia has been taught to be the best shot and since then has lived her life on the run. But now that she's settled and made friends who are more like family to her in this town, she doesn't really want to leave.
Sam.. THAT MAN.. OH MY. SIGH!! 😍😍
Sam's wants Amelia right from the time he set his eyes on her. But has given her space and time and yet protects her. He's obliged to The Family that his father is boss of and one day, Sam will be taking his place.
What he didn't anticipate was the girl of his dreams to have a past full of secrets and how both their worlds unknowingly would collide.
I adorer Sam just the way he does Amelia. He's dangerous and yet when it comes to the people he loves, there's nothing he wouldn't do to protect them.
I loved that man for how incredible he was with Amelia and sure about wanting her as the only woman. How even though he has to tackle major problems in a row yet for him she's his queen.
This one was such a fantastically perfect mix of Swoony Romance, all the feels, lies and deceit and action and secrets and danger. I felt like I had a scrumptious, simply delightful full course dinner date meal with this one.
Trust me on this. READ READ IT. Don't dive into the blurb but just dive into this delectable read. Sam and Amelia will totally blow your mind and will take you on an incredible journey.
Loved loved this one. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
November 29, 2021
Rise of the King
(Restless Kings #1)
Written by: Bella Matthews
Rise of the King was an easy book to get into.
The prologue sets up the history we need to know when it comes to Samuel (Sam) and Amelia. From that point on readers are taken through a wild ride on the Sam and Amelia train…and boy does Amelia have a lot of “stops” on this journey.
Amelia is running from a past that she is sure will cause her harm if she is caught. She’s been living in Kroydon Hills for six months, she feels safe and is finally able to stay in one spot for a while. Opening her own bakery has always been a dream for her and it’s been keeping her busy. She needs to be busy! She has a few friends; her closest friend is Bella Sinclair. Her life gets a bit more interesting when she arrives at Bella’s house and finds not just Bella but two others being threatened. The two others just happen to be Sebastian (Bash) Beneventi and his older brother Samuel. It’s this meeting that introduces Amelia and Sam to each other. One of them will deny their attraction the other one will wait until they win the prize. The prize being Amelia!
Sam Beneventi is currently the underboss for The Family, (mafia) and eventually will take over his father’s position as the head of the The Family. The day he met Amelia was the first stop in what will be a truly amazing ride for her. Sam likes to call her Snow White (Snow for short). He is loving his attraction to her, she tries to deny her attraction to him but soon her heart and mind begin to acknowledge their attraction.
Although readers aren’t privy to most of the day-to-day work Sam does, we do get to be involved in some things, watching how Sam works and seeing how he is always willing to make sure his Snow is protected. In Rise of the King, Author Bella Matthew’s gives readers a true hero in Sam with a Princess – Amelia (Snow) who needs to learn how to trust and love after having to question how much of her real life was made up and will she ever belong.
Of course, I’m leaving out a whole wack of things, but that’s for you the reader to find out about. I will tell you this though, this story kept me turning pages, rooting for Sam and Amelia and getting a good laugh now and again. A good read, with some angst and a lot of love.
(Restless Kings #1)
Written by: Bella Matthews
Rise of the King was an easy book to get into.
The prologue sets up the history we need to know when it comes to Samuel (Sam) and Amelia. From that point on readers are taken through a wild ride on the Sam and Amelia train…and boy does Amelia have a lot of “stops” on this journey.
Amelia is running from a past that she is sure will cause her harm if she is caught. She’s been living in Kroydon Hills for six months, she feels safe and is finally able to stay in one spot for a while. Opening her own bakery has always been a dream for her and it’s been keeping her busy. She needs to be busy! She has a few friends; her closest friend is Bella Sinclair. Her life gets a bit more interesting when she arrives at Bella’s house and finds not just Bella but two others being threatened. The two others just happen to be Sebastian (Bash) Beneventi and his older brother Samuel. It’s this meeting that introduces Amelia and Sam to each other. One of them will deny their attraction the other one will wait until they win the prize. The prize being Amelia!
Sam Beneventi is currently the underboss for The Family, (mafia) and eventually will take over his father’s position as the head of the The Family. The day he met Amelia was the first stop in what will be a truly amazing ride for her. Sam likes to call her Snow White (Snow for short). He is loving his attraction to her, she tries to deny her attraction to him but soon her heart and mind begin to acknowledge their attraction.
Although readers aren’t privy to most of the day-to-day work Sam does, we do get to be involved in some things, watching how Sam works and seeing how he is always willing to make sure his Snow is protected. In Rise of the King, Author Bella Matthew’s gives readers a true hero in Sam with a Princess – Amelia (Snow) who needs to learn how to trust and love after having to question how much of her real life was made up and will she ever belong.
Of course, I’m leaving out a whole wack of things, but that’s for you the reader to find out about. I will tell you this though, this story kept me turning pages, rooting for Sam and Amelia and getting a good laugh now and again. A good read, with some angst and a lot of love.
April 5, 2024
“The whole city will kneel down to me, but I’ll only ever kneel for you.”
Do you like mafia romances? What about when he falls first? How about when he uses all his mafia power to keep her safe and secure, even though she can defend herself? This book has all that and more. This was my first Bella Matthews book, and it won’t be my last. Sam and Amelia are forever embedded in my heart, and I absolutely love the found family vibes in this series. The sibling banter alone will force a cheesy grin on your face.
This is the first book in a series of standalones. We met the main characters for book 2 in this story, and it seems like it’s a fiery (her) + broody (him) match. Cannot wait. 👀
If you enjoy books by J.T. Geissinger or T.L. Swan, you should check these out.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
Do you like mafia romances? What about when he falls first? How about when he uses all his mafia power to keep her safe and secure, even though she can defend herself? This book has all that and more. This was my first Bella Matthews book, and it won’t be my last. Sam and Amelia are forever embedded in my heart, and I absolutely love the found family vibes in this series. The sibling banter alone will force a cheesy grin on your face.
This is the first book in a series of standalones. We met the main characters for book 2 in this story, and it seems like it’s a fiery (her) + broody (him) match. Cannot wait. 👀
If you enjoy books by J.T. Geissinger or T.L. Swan, you should check these out.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
December 8, 2021
After reading The Kings of Kroydon Hills series, I definitely was excited about the Kingstons' stories. And it was so worth the read because Sam and Amelia's story was a great intro to the series already.
Right from the moment they met, Sam has always felt really protective over Amelia. For two years, he has been by her side to protect and support her as much as he can. Until Sam decided it's time for them to shift their relationship romantically. And what a great journey that was, watching them navigate their relationship while Sam is taking over the mafia business. He's alpha but he shows his sweet and soft side just for Amelia because he knows that she needed him to ground her especially after finding her long-lost family.
It's kind of rare to swoon for a mafia romance, or maybe that's just me. But Sam was definitely swoon-worthy and you don't want to deprive yourself of a little bit of Sam. I'm definitely excited for this new series and definitely for the Kingstons' stories. I can't wait for Scarlett's story next.
Right from the moment they met, Sam has always felt really protective over Amelia. For two years, he has been by her side to protect and support her as much as he can. Until Sam decided it's time for them to shift their relationship romantically. And what a great journey that was, watching them navigate their relationship while Sam is taking over the mafia business. He's alpha but he shows his sweet and soft side just for Amelia because he knows that she needed him to ground her especially after finding her long-lost family.
It's kind of rare to swoon for a mafia romance, or maybe that's just me. But Sam was definitely swoon-worthy and you don't want to deprive yourself of a little bit of Sam. I'm definitely excited for this new series and definitely for the Kingstons' stories. I can't wait for Scarlett's story next.
January 18, 2024
An exception
In the first 10 % of this book I raged with so many discrepancies and inaccuracies, it made me lose my mind. I had to take a step back and clear my head and move on.
Yet I won’t hesitate to say this again and again - A note to authors, as readers, we pay attention - so whether it be in just one book or over a series, stay consistent and do your research, just like they taught you throughout school and writing papers. You keep notes. That’s what good writing is… just saying 💁🏻♀️
In the first 10 % of this book I raged with so many discrepancies and inaccuracies, it made me lose my mind. I had to take a step back and clear my head and move on.
Yet I won’t hesitate to say this again and again - A note to authors, as readers, we pay attention - so whether it be in just one book or over a series, stay consistent and do your research, just like they taught you throughout school and writing papers. You keep notes. That’s what good writing is… just saying 💁🏻♀️
December 9, 2021
We meet Amelia, she's fleeing from an unsafe past and end up in Sam's city.
Amelia vows not to get attached to anyone then she meets Sam, the mafia prince.
Amelia catches Sam's attention straight away, and he vows to protect her.
All the while fighting an invisible enemy. On the countdown to find out who it is.
I loved the plot, such an addictive story full of action, spice, and drama.
I loved Amelia, her feistiness and independence was everything.
As a new reader to Bella i loved this book and am eager to read more.
If you enjoy Mafia Romance books with an possessive wont take no for an alpha male this is for you.
Looking forward to more of the series.
Amelia vows not to get attached to anyone then she meets Sam, the mafia prince.
Amelia catches Sam's attention straight away, and he vows to protect her.
All the while fighting an invisible enemy. On the countdown to find out who it is.
I loved the plot, such an addictive story full of action, spice, and drama.
I loved Amelia, her feistiness and independence was everything.
As a new reader to Bella i loved this book and am eager to read more.
If you enjoy Mafia Romance books with an possessive wont take no for an alpha male this is for you.
Looking forward to more of the series.
October 26, 2022
4.5 stars! My first book by the author and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
November 23, 2021
One of a kind, this strong confident man with a beautiful heart redefines the lines of love and loyalty! Sam and Amelia bring a passionate vulnerability that will sweep you off your feet and steal your breath away! This extremely enjoyable spin off gets five stars and leaves me eager for more of the Restless Kings!
November 23, 2021
I absolutely love how Bella brings her characters to life for us, she always makes me want to continue reading until I finish her books and this one is no exception it had all the feels that I love in a book and I can't wait to see what she puts out next... Go read this you won't regret it .
December 16, 2021
You know its a good book when you love the supporting characters as much as the leads.
This is my first time reading anything from this author and for me it ticked all the boxes.
There was an intriguing mafia plot, Sam & Amelia as friends and then lovers was well written, but what really is great in this book is all the dialogue between the characters, there is wit, sarcasm, humor, sass, anger and love and it is what really makes the book.
This is start, of what will be a great series.
This is my first time reading anything from this author and for me it ticked all the boxes.
There was an intriguing mafia plot, Sam & Amelia as friends and then lovers was well written, but what really is great in this book is all the dialogue between the characters, there is wit, sarcasm, humor, sass, anger and love and it is what really makes the book.
This is start, of what will be a great series.
Read
December 10, 2021Can’t wait to read this book hurry up December 😍😍
August 28, 2023
“This isn’t over, Amelia. I’ll do anything to make sure you’re safe. I guaranteed that yesterday. You’re safe. I protect what’s mine. And you, Snow, are mine. So, this isn’t over.” ❤️
4.5 ⭐️
✨Mafia
✨Friends to Lovers
✨Alpha male/badass heroine
Amelia has moved to Kroydon Hills to start a new life as a baker. When meeting up with her friend, she meets Sam. Sam, a mafia prince, immediately wants to know more about her and where she came from. However, she’s trying to keep that under lock and key. But Sam has his tools. Even after what Sam finds out, Amelia’s world is about to completely change. Sam is determined to keep his princess safe, no matter what it takes.
This was such a great read! This story grasped my attention so quickly and it kept it until the very end. I did not want this story to end!! This was a great mafia romance, but not too dark. Amelia and Sam are the ultimate badass couple. They’re both strong and loyal, and I loved both of them as a couple and individually. And the way this rolls into the Kingston family is perfect. I am so excited to read the rest of this series. I’m absolutely obsessed with this family!
Bella Matthews has instantly become an auto-read author for me. Her books capture your attention instantly, and make you want to keep on reading to find out what happens next. I love how everything ties together and the Kingstons will always hold a place in my heart. ❤️
4.5 ⭐️
✨Mafia
✨Friends to Lovers
✨Alpha male/badass heroine
Amelia has moved to Kroydon Hills to start a new life as a baker. When meeting up with her friend, she meets Sam. Sam, a mafia prince, immediately wants to know more about her and where she came from. However, she’s trying to keep that under lock and key. But Sam has his tools. Even after what Sam finds out, Amelia’s world is about to completely change. Sam is determined to keep his princess safe, no matter what it takes.
This was such a great read! This story grasped my attention so quickly and it kept it until the very end. I did not want this story to end!! This was a great mafia romance, but not too dark. Amelia and Sam are the ultimate badass couple. They’re both strong and loyal, and I loved both of them as a couple and individually. And the way this rolls into the Kingston family is perfect. I am so excited to read the rest of this series. I’m absolutely obsessed with this family!
Bella Matthews has instantly become an auto-read author for me. Her books capture your attention instantly, and make you want to keep on reading to find out what happens next. I love how everything ties together and the Kingstons will always hold a place in my heart. ❤️
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