I love Sophie Lark's writing!

The second book in the 'Brutal Birthright' series, is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast.
Nessa and Miko are amazing characters. They are well-written and their love was not instant, but slow and exciting.
I enjoyed reading both points of view and how they both felt about each other, trying desperately to remind themselves that they were supposed to be enemies.

The descriptions bring the book to life and the extra art in the pages was everything I needed to add to the experience. The scenery, the fight scenes, the steamy scenes. Everything!

We got to read more about Aida and Callum's lives, getting a few pieces of information about the rest of the siblings.

I, also, fell in love with Marcel and Klara.

while i enjoyed this one more than brutal prince, something was still lacking for me. whether it be the abundance of similes used in the writing, or the characters themselves, i didn’t find myself fully connecting with them. i did like this cohesive plot line compared to the first one. i will continue to give this series a chance

"Stolen Heir" by Sophie Lark is an absolute triumph in the realm of dark romance, delivering a spellbinding narrative that keeps you hooked from the first page to the last. Lark's writing prowess is on full display as she intricately weaves together a tale of danger, passion, and forbidden love. The characters in this novel are brilliantly crafted, each with their own complexities and vulnerabilities that add layers to the story. The chemistry between the protagonists is electric, and the tension between duty and desire creates a captivating dynamic that heightens the emotional stakes.

One of the standout aspects of "Stolen Heir" is Lark's ability to create a vivid and immersive world. The detailed settings and atmospheric descriptions pull the reader into a realm where danger lurks around every corner, and the stakes are higher than ever. The pacing is expertly managed, with suspenseful moments seamlessly blended with intense romantic interludes. The plot twists are unexpected and skillfully executed, keeping the reader guessing and ensuring that every turn of the page is a thrilling experience.

In addition to the enthralling romance and gripping plot, "Stolen Heir" explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the complexities of power. The narrative delves into the characters' internal struggles, adding a layer of depth that elevates the story beyond the typical romance novel. Sophie Lark has crafted a masterful tale that will undoubtedly resonate with fans of dark romance, making "Stolen Heir" a must-read for anyone seeking a captivating, emotionally charged, and beautifully written novel.

This is book two in the Brutal Birthright series. It definitely gave me Beauty and the Beast vibes! Miko and Nessa were definitely opposites but you could feel the tension and the attraction between them. Miko had a gothic vibe to him while nessa was your typical good girl. I enjoyed the character development between both characters. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!

Sophie Lark writes some of the most entertaining and addicting books I have ever read.
This book is no exception.

Stolen Heir is a mafia, beauty and the beast retelling, forbidden love, dark romance story that highlights the captivating dynamic between fated lovers.
This book had my attention 100% of the time and was quick and easy to finish.

Niko's tragic past, forcing his dark and unemotional demeanor is a stark contrast to the FMC, Nessa's, sweet and innocent nature. As sweet as she may seem, she doesn't go down without a fight and that tongue is laced with red hot poison if you get too far out of line.
Their chemistry was truly intoxicating and I couldn't get enough of it.

This book is a MUST READ for anyone who is a fan of dark mafia romances or dark romance retellings.
Thank you Sophie Lark, for another masterfully crafted story.

📖: Stolen Heir
🖋️: Sophie Lark
⭐️: 5 of 5
🌶️: 5 of 5
💬: “I’m sorry. Am I not meeting your expectations as a hostage? Please, enlighten me as to how perceptive you’d be if somebody drugged you and plopped you in the middle of some creepy haunted mansion?”

⚠️: Please check the warnings as this book may not be suitable for all readers. As always, protect your mental health.💛

Tropes, Topics & Themes:
✨Mafia
✨Plot twists
✨Forbidden Lovers
✨Beauty and the Beast Retelling
✨Forced Proximity
✨Slow burn

This is the mafia beauty and beast retelling that you never knew you needed!🔥🔥 I devoured this book. I think this is my favorite so far from the series. (I’ve only read the 2nd and 3rd)

After a horrible event that happened to Miko’s sister. He sets out to get revenge. When caught, his life changes but is it really for the better?

Fast forward to ten years later. Now, Miko is the guy to fear. When he fails a job the guy gets away. He ends up losing his father. So revenge again is on the table for Miko.

“If only it were that easy, my little ballerina…”

Nessa is the youngest in her family and innocent when it comes to the mafia dealings. Yet she finds herself in a situation where Miko using her to get back at her family.

While she’s at his place. These two get to know each other better and the Miko’s plan starts to blur.

Can he allow love in his life? Will he be able to give Nessa back when his plan to make her family hurt comes to an end?

Grab Stolen Heir to find out!

Thank you, Sophie Lark, Sourcebooks Bloom Books, and Netgalley for this EARC! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared on my Instagram @Alexandriavwilliams_ shortly.

"Stolen Heir" by Sophie Lark is an absolute triumph in the realm of dark romance, delivering a spellbinding narrative that keeps you hooked from the first page to the last. Lark's writing prowess is on full display as she intricately weaves together a tale of danger, passion, and forbidden love. The characters in this novel are brilliantly crafted, each with their own complexities and vulnerabilities that add layers to the story. The chemistry between the protagonists is electric, and the tension between duty and desire creates a captivating dynamic that heightens the emotional stakes.

One of the standout aspects of "Stolen Heir" is Lark's ability to create a vivid and immersive world. The detailed settings and atmospheric descriptions pull the reader into a realm where danger lurks around every corner, and the stakes are higher than ever. The pacing is expertly managed, with suspenseful moments seamlessly blended with intense romantic interludes. The plot twists are unexpected and skillfully executed, keeping the reader guessing and ensuring that every turn of the page is a thrilling experience.

In addition to the enthralling romance and gripping plot, "Stolen Heir" explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the complexities of power. The narrative delves into the characters' internal struggles, adding a layer of depth that elevates the story beyond the typical romance novel. Sophie Lark has crafted a masterful tale that will undoubtedly resonate with fans of dark romance, making "Stolen Heir" a must-read for anyone seeking a captivating, emotionally charged, and beautifully written novel.

I like Sophie Lark's writing style. I like her storytelling but I don't like mafia books.

It's me, it's my fault for requesting these book. I really enjoye this book and the parallels to beauty and the beast. I will continue the series because I want to see all the siblings find love.

Thank you NetGalley for the e-arc version of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was the first ever Sophie Lark book I have ever read and I’m so delighted I received this arc because now I can’t wait to dive into more of this world! I can confirm that the books in this series truely do stand alone, as this is 2 in the series and it was a perfect place to start in my opinion. (Did I immediately go out and grab the first book in the series? Yes, I did)

The tropes in this book absolutely SERVED and that’s all thanks to Sophie’s sophisticated and fun writing. I didn’t know what to expect but is heard her name, and I can now see why she’s so popular.

Thank you NetGalley for the eArc copy of this book.

I was very excited to read this as I have heard soo much about Sophie Lark and her amazing brutal birthright series.

This did not disappoint. I'll definitely be going back and reading the whole series. Who doesn't love a good mafia romance!

Stolen Heir is a contemporary mafia retelling of beauty and the beast. Great for fans of enemies to lovers plotlines, Nessa spends.a lot of this book as Miko's captive, so be aware this is a kidnapping story and consequently a little dark and twisted. Spicy and kind of trashy, things in this book have some dubious consent as well so be warned.

Excuse me while I go and melt!! This book was AMAZING!!!! I need to read more from this series so I look forward to reading the next book!

"Stolen Heir," the second book in Sophie Lark's Brutal Birthright series, presents a dark and gothic enemies-to-lovers tale woven with themes of vengeance, innocence, and the transformative power of love. This contemporary retelling of Beauty and the Beast, set against the backdrop of Chicago's underworld, delivers a compelling narrative that combines the delicate artistry of ballet with the brutal world of the mafia.

Nessa Griffin, portrayed as a gentle and compassionate soul, struggles to find her place within her family's notorious mafia empire. Her character, a ballerina, symbolizes purity and grace, a stark contrast to the world of violence and power she is born into. Despite her upbringing, she retains an innocence and a kindness that sets her apart from the legacy of her family's crimes​​​​.

Mikolaj Wilk, known as Miko, emerges as a character hardened by loss and fueled by a desire for revenge against the Griffin family, whom he holds responsible for his father's death. Capturing Nessa as part of his vengeful plot, he is a man driven to the edge, embodying the archetype of the beast in his gothic mansion. Yet, as he finds himself increasingly drawn to Nessa, a complex relationship unfolds, challenging his resolve and the very foundations of his vengeful intentions​​​​.

The narrative arc is intense, beginning with Miko's tragic past, shaping him into a figure seemingly incapable of emotion, except for his need for revenge. In stark contrast, Nessa's sweet and innocent nature, coupled with her unexpected feistiness and cleverness, begins to thaw Miko's frozen heart. The dynamic between captor and captive evolves beautifully, with a growing tension and attraction that leaps off the pages, challenging both characters to reconsider their preconceived notions of each other and their circumstances​​​​.

"Stolen Heir" is adept at delving into the psychology of its characters, exploring the themes of trust, redemption, and the possibility of finding humanity within the darkness. Nessa's unwavering kindness becomes a beacon for Miko, revealing the man beneath the monstrous façade. The novel doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of its setting, yet it threads a delicate balance, creating a narrative that is both raw and tender​​​​.

Sophie Lark's writing is praised for its ability to captivate and imprint the story in the reader's soul, with the book containing moments of unexpected twists and emotional depth. The supporting cast of characters adds richness to the story, providing a backdrop that enhances the main narrative. "Stolen Heir" is not just a romance but an exploration of whether love can truly conquer all, even in a world where the wolves prey on the lambs​​​​.

"Stolen Heir" is a must-read for fans of mafia romance and those who enjoy a story that deftly combines the thrill of danger with the hope of redemption. The book's portrayal of an unlikely romance blossoming in the unlikeliest of places is a testament to Sophie Lark's storytelling prowess. It’s a gripping tale that promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats, questioning the nature of love and the power it has to change even the coldest of hearts.

Not so surprisingly, it’s another Sophie Lark book that I love and had a blast reading. This whole series is extremely addicting and I’m having such a fun time reading these books.

The character dynamic between these two was so intriguing and I loved it so much! The tension was just on a whole new level that I was totally eating up every minute.

This is easily becoming a new favorite series with these characters, the plots, and the dynamics of the story itself. I will always be drawn to Sophie’s books because they are each so incredibly unique and have her voice in such a strong way. I love it!!!

*Thank you Bloom Books and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.*

I like the author, but this book just wasn't for me. I couldn't continue reading it. I couldn't connect with the characters. I despise the cliché of the beautiful virgin falling for the 'beast' who treats her like nothing, and then suddenly he desires her.

please note that the trigger warnings and topes/themes may contain spoilers
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
HEA: yes
spice: several open door scenes
TWs: violence, murder, rape, suicide, stalking, sexual assault, kidnapping, threats, MILD dubious consent, I mean basically Stockholm syndrome.. but in a cute way
standalone: book 2 in the Brutal Birthright Series
final thoughts: once again love the illustrations in these series but TW for some of the scenes that were chosen to be illustrated. So good and plenty of darkness that makes you wonder how they’ll end up becoming lovers – this to me was a great story that is contemporary romance with an actual enemies to lovers storyline. Their relationship was fun to follow and I’m a sucker for a 1st person POV with dual POVs.

read this book if you love

💓 slowburn
🔀 opposites attract
🔫 mafia
🌀 plot twists
🤐 secrets
🤐 miscommunication
☠️ “touch her and die”
🔢 age gap (19/26)
🏝️ forced proximity (captive/captor)
🏉 sports romance (ballet)
😳 forbidden lovers (rival families)
📖 retelling (Beauty and the Beast vibes)
😡 grumpy/sunshine

I’m not ordinarily a huge mafia romance lover, but let me tell you this book proved me wrong. Had some beauty and the beast vibes to it. both MC were very relatable and Miko was *chef’s kiss*. I think I enjoyed it even more than the first book.

Not so surprisingly, it’s another Sophie Lark book that I love and had a blast reading. This whole series is extremely addicting and I’m having such a fun time reading these books.

The character dynamic between these two was so intriguing and I loved it so much! The tension was just on a whole new level that I was totally eating up every minute.

This is easily becoming a new favorite series with these characters, the plots, and the dynamics of the story itself. I will always be drawn to Sophie’s books because they are each so incredibly unique and have her voice in such a strong way. I love it!!!

*Thank you Bloom Books and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.*

This is a good entry into dark romance, I feel. It has the dark mafia world and dark origins for our villainous MMC but it doesn’t get too graphic or scary after that. It’s a good landing point to test if dark romance or mafia romance could be for you. It’s alas spicy but not rushed or over the top, again a great entry point to readers new to spice who want heat without it being too much right at the top.

Miko is really well written. The story starting with his life and what he lost in Poland set up a great character arc for him, so I was able to accept his horrible behaviour in the present knowing the man he’d be able to grow back into. The pacing was also great, I was never bored or left wondering for too long. The story kept me engaged and moved along nicely.

I would have loved more scenes of them together, really falling for each other. While their coming together did not feel rushed, there could have been a lot more smaller moments while they are in the house trapped together to amp up the tension and the longing.

Thank you Source Books and Bloom Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

This book was really amazing! I had a hard time putting it down and just had to play the "soundtrack song" of each scene that had one. I thought it matched up perfectly. I also found it very interesting how a captive and a captor can end up feeling the way they end up feeling. Not sure that can happen for real, but I love that it happened in the book. I would definitely recommend this book to my fellow romance readers. Thank you so much to Bloom Books #bloombooks for allowing me to read this.