This is not your typical historical romance, this story is dark, at times depressing, violent and well just plain awesome!

Mina Mason is the sister of the crime lord, Joaquin, leader of the Kings gang. Charlie is Mina's love and a member of a rival gang, the Chapmans. I was expecting a Romeo and Juliet type story with a happy ending - but what I really got was a story of love conquering all.

The Kings and the Chapmans have maintained a truce for years, but all that changes when Charlie stands up to a fellow gang member in defense of Mina. With his life in jeopardy and her brother trying to marry her off to a business associate, there seems to be no way these two can have a HEA.

I give Ms. Monroe a lot of credit, I have read thousands of books and never had I ever read one like this. I was sure this book was going to end sadly and badly, but she pulled off a believable miracle.

I would highly recommend this novella, but be warned, this is not a light, happy, fluffy read - it is down and dirty. I could be read as a stand alone, but I would recommend reading the entire series in order for the best reader experience.

This book was a standard pre-Victorian romance between Mina, the sister of the leader of one of the leading gangs the Kings, and Charlie, a member of the rival Chapman gang. What was unique about this story was that it doesn't involve the nobility, but everyday people. The book shows that class differences didn't just exist between the nobility and the common people, but between all levels. The one thing that I wish was expanded upon was Mina and Charlie's history. I really like friends-to-lovers romances, and while a few memories were recalled, there was room for more to deepen the emotional connection between the two, instead of just relying on the characters to say they have developed this relationship/love.

I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

As promised, an honest review in exchange for this ARC. A story that has been told for ages. Romeo & Juliet. The Hatfields & The Macoys. Pretty woman. I have to say that I prefer a book that has a bit more bit. Although there was some here, it was just a bit flat for my tastes.