I prefer other books in the Brutal Birthright series, but I still enjoyed this. I think my main thing was pregnancy which I’m not a fan of 🤷🏻‍♀️

⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

I rarely give books 5 stars, but this one definitely deserves a 5 star rating!! So unexpectedly good.

I haven’t read this genre since 50 Shades of Grey…. this book truly has those vibes! The romance was thrilling and so, so, so seductively SPICY!!! I’ve seen mentions of “mafia romance” before and as soon as I realized that’s kinda what this book was, I thought I was doomed. But boy, was a pleasantly surprised that I really, I mean REALLY loved it! Could not put this one down until I finished. Because of this well-written book, I am broadening my horizons and plan to include some spicy romance novels to my library.

It’s a tale of two lovers from very different backgrounds. His is dark and murky, the dedicated son of the Mafia Boss, Hers is of privilege and wealth, the daughter of a controlling ambassador. Upon meeting, they both feel an overwhelming force compelling them to come together, no matter the consequences. They fall in love, have passionate s**, and confess their mutual love. Dante meets Simone’s parents and her father immediately forbids her to see him again. She then falls pregnant and leaves the country for 9 years. They eventually come back together where secrets are revealed, an assassin seeks revenge and soul mates reunited.
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*Thank you NetGalley, BloomBooks, and Sophie Lark for this Advanced Readers Copy*

I've got to say, I loved this book! I don't want to give any spoilers away but my gosh I love this couple! Now I've been wanting to read this series for the longest time and have never picked it up. But since I was granted the chance to read book 4, I just couldn't resist. I'm definitely going to be buying the whole series along with the spinoff series. This book just pushed me in the right direction lol. Although I will say some stuff happened really fast and I was like, "Aww man, I didn't think this would be like wattpad, but then the plot twist happened and I'm like, okay give me more lol!" I need more of these characters, and I've obviously been spoiled for the previous books but that's okay, it just had me wanting to read them more. Amazing read, if you want spice you got it, you want heartbreak, you got it, you want second chance, you got it, you want a happily ever after, you got it!! I can't wait to read the rest of the series!!! Also I do realize that this book series has been out already but I'm pretty sure this just got picked up by a publisher so that's why I can't purchase on Amazon lol!
*Thank you again to NetGalley, BloomBooks, and Sophie Lark for this ARC.*

Will be posted November 25th

I'm now 4 books deep into this series, and I have to say that this one might have been my least favorite. There were still a lot of things that I enjoyed, and I think that it still will be enjoyable for most readers who have enjoyed the first three books. Yet, I found that it felt a little rushed to me, since they seem to be absolutely obsessed with each other the second they meet, and they fall in love with each other without really knowing the other.

The book is divided is pretty much divided in two, with the first half being more about how they meet, fell for each other and pretty much lost each other, and then the present where they reconnect after 9 years. The present section also felt a little rushed, where they seem to fall into bed really fast, despite not really dealing with anything, and discussing what happened...

Overall, it was okay. It wasn't the best of the series, but I still enjoyed it. I'm definitely still going to read the next one, to see Riona's story. And I'm quite curious about Raylan from the little we saw in this book.

★ ★ ★ | 🌶.5

18+ check TWs

Note: I try my hardest to not include spoilers in my reviews. However, spoilers and how you define a spoiler is subjective. Proceed with caution.

*A special thank you to Netgalley and Bloom Books for early access to this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

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As I slowly make my way through this series, I find that my opinions get more and more mixed. Don’t get me wrong, I definitely enjoy reading them. But, I don’t think they are all made equal.

To be completely honest, I wasn’t particularly invested in Dante to begin with. But this book just felt underdeveloped. I felt like there were big questions and things that weren’t addressed or answered.

For example, I can’t believe that we didn’t get a scene with Simone telling her parents to hit the road. Especially considering how abusive they were.

Also, there was no tension or culmination of tension for Simone and Dante. Them seeing each other after 9 years just felt very bland and uneventful.

This might be attributed to the fact that it was insta love from the get go, so I wasn’t sure what they loved about each other that would create the longing.

And Dante was mad for a whole 10 seconds about Henry before he gets over it? Really?

Overall, I felt like the plot was just thrown in there for the sake of throwing it in there. This made the beginning feel super interesting and the end not so much. I think the book would have benefitted from intertwining present day and the past together, instead of completely separating them.

I’m not quite sure Sophie Lark’s writing is for me 100%. I enjoy reading the books, but the quality leaves something to be desired. That being said, I’m interested in Riona’s book so I will be definitely be reading it.

I loved this book. Five stars all around. A second chance romance with polar opposites, lengthy time apart, on top of a life changing secret? Perfection. I thought this book was incredible executed and the character development was on par with Sophie Lark’s writing. I very much enjoyed this book and will be recommending to everyone I know.

I received this ARC via NetGalley and Bloom Books in exchange for an honest review.

In "Bloody Heart" by Sophie Lark, the story revolves around Simone Solomon, a young woman who has been brought up in a world of opulence and strict obedience. Living a life of luxury feels like a gilded cage for Simone, and any sense of freedom seems out of reach.

One fateful night, as Simone finds herself trapped in the back of a limousine, her life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes the unintended target of a mafia member aiming to steal a car. Dante Gallo, a rough and formidable man, encounters Simone in the midst of this chaos, and their attraction becomes undeniable, despite their glaring differences.

However, their intense connection is shattered during a disastrous event that tears them apart. Yet, fate intervenes, granting Simone one more chance to rekindle the flame with the man she can't forget. But there is a secret haunting Simone, a mistake she believes Dante might never forgive her for.

Sophie Lark delivers a gripping story of second chances, forbidden love, and the power of redemption. Through her engaging storytelling, she explores the complex dynamics between Simone and Dante, capturing their intense chemistry and the challenges they face along the way. The juxtaposition of Simone's privileged upbringing and Dante's gritty world adds depth to the narrative, creating a fascinating dynamic that keeps readers captivated.

As the story unfolds, "Bloody Heart" delves into themes of sacrifice, forgiveness, and the lengths we are willing to go for love. Lark expertly crafts emotional moments that tug at the heartstrings, while keeping readers hooked with the anticipation of discovering how Simone's secret will impact their relationship.

Engrossing and passionate, "Bloody Heart" offers a powerful tale of love, redemption, and the courage to embrace second chances, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Sophie Lark's skill in creating compelling characters and weaving together a captivating narrative is sure to leave readers enthralled until the very last page.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC!

It's my first reading to this author, so I didn't really expect much from the book in particular. In the story we are presented with how Simone was kidnapped in her limousine by Dante and how from there they have a chemistry, however; two people from completely different worlds, it is very unlikely that they will stay together, even if they sacrifice everything.

After nine years, they find secrets again that they are afraid of coming to light.

I liked the fluidity with which I was able to read this book because it was a little light. I feel like it's not the big story, but I like books with second chances. In particular, I didn't like this one as much as I expected because I felt almost nothing while reading the protagonists and I could only get excited by the drama there was.

I think it can be a quick and addictive reading because of the drama that surrounds this book.

Thank you to NetGalley, Sophie Lark, and Bloom Books for this advanced eARC.

"Bloody Heart" by Sophie Lark is a dark and enthralling masterpiece that weaves together passion, danger, and intricate characters in a way that leaves an indelible mark on the reader. Lark's writing is nothing short of phenomenal, creating a world that is both chilling and alluring, where every page drips with tension and desire. The characters are exceptionally well-crafted, each with their own flaws and vulnerabilities, making them not only relatable but deeply engaging. The protagonist's journey is a rollercoaster of emotions, and Lark skillfully navigates the complexities of love, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.

The romance in "Bloody Heart" is a visceral experience that sears through the pages. Lark excels at portraying the magnetic connection between the characters, and the chemistry is palpable, igniting the narrative with intensity. The love story unfolds against a backdrop of danger and suspense, adding layers of intrigue that keep the reader hooked. The pacing is impeccable, with suspenseful moments seamlessly interwoven with poignant and steamy encounters, creating a perfect balance that keeps the story both thrilling and emotionally resonant.

Beyond the romance, the plot of "Bloody Heart" is a tapestry of unexpected twists and turns. The author skillfully integrates moments of action, revelation, and self-discovery, maintaining a level of suspense that builds throughout the narrative. Themes of redemption and the impact of choices resonate deeply, adding a thought-provoking layer to the story. Sophie Lark has once again delivered a five-star read that captivates from beginning to end, solidifying her place as a master storyteller in the realm of dark romance.

3⭐️ i will not lie i was expecting so much more from this book. i will say it was a really cute read but not my favorite book from the series. dante deserves the world.

I have been waiting for Dante's book for so long and it did not disappoint! You get glimpses of Dante's surly personality in previous books and bloody heart really explains why. The book starts off in the past and then fast forwards to the present; which I really enjoyed. I think it helped show the characters growth as they become adults and have experienced some life.

I loved Dante and Simone. When they met they were both young 21 and 18. They fall hard and fast. Simone comes from wealth gala's and events where as Dante is a gangster/mafia born. Two opposites that attract. I love a good forbidden romance and this hit the spot for me.

I wish this book was longer just so I could get more of them as a whole and family unit. That being said cannot wait to get my hands on the next book.

Thank you to NetGalley, Sophie Lark, and Bloom Books for this advanced eARC.

I. Love. This. Book. Sophie Lark has a way of writing stories that hurt but also heal, and this is the top contender. I'm not sure I can put into words how much this book means to me but I'll try.

This series was probably the first mafia series I ever attempted to read and I was not sure what to expect when I started. As much as I love the other books in this series before this (Stolen Heir), Bloody Heart blew me away. It put Sophie Lark on my auto-buy author list. The way the two main characters have to go through so much before coming back together was heartwrenching. I was especially hurt knowing everything Simone went through with her family. Having her and Dante get their family in the end genuinely made me cry, even if Dante could have handled certain things a bit better.

This one would be perfect for anyone who loves a good second chance book where there is a secret child/baby. And if you have not yet, definitely check out Sophie Lark's entire backlog. The Brutal Birthright and (connected) Kingmakers series are some of my all-time favorite mafia romances.

A good second chance romance with a decent pregnancy trope. Before going into this book make sure to read the TW because there is some dubious consent a few times. I also hate Simone’s dad with a passion. Never have I been so mad and upset over a parents actions than when her father basically stole her baby while she was hospitalized! Just typing this now is making my blood pressure rise.

I was a bit thrown off when I began reading as I did not realize we would be getting a flashback for half of the book to set up the present. Everything was great until it wasn't. I could have help the temptation to throw my phone across the room when they were ripped apart. When Simone's father took her baby, not only did I want to throw my book across the room, but I want to rip him to pieces. Luckily we got our happily ever after and a happy family reunion.

This book may be the darkest in the series so far. it is filled with angst, pining and of course SPICE. The story between Dante and Simone prove that maybe soulmates do exist.

I admit I expected more, especially considering the male character and his actions in the past. I was anticipating a passionate love story, characters equally fervent, specific and well-explored themes, and above all, a skillful execution. However, it turned out to be the opposite: I'm not even sure I can articulate why they were drawn to each other. Yes, there was a certain sexual attraction, but what came after? Nothing substantial. The characters fail to evoke a particular emotional connection, remaining on the surface. The story seems content with the image of a somewhat rough man and a romantically inclined woman.

Bloody Heart by Sophie Lark is the 4th book in the Brutal Birthright series. This is one of my favorite series and I have loved every book. Bloody Heart is a second chance mafia romance, has dual POV’s, is spicy, with HEA.

Dante Gallo MMC, is the oldest son of mafia boss Enzo Gallo. Dante lives his life like nothing and no one is out of bounds. Simone Solomon FMC, is the youngest daughter of a diplomat, wants to go to design design school where she can design clothes but her father has different plans for her.

On the way to a gala Simone and her father have a disagreement where she decided to wait in the car to calm down. Dante running away from a situation he got into jumps into the first available car drives away with Simone in the back seat. Startled Dante assures her he doesn’t want to hurt and that she will be safe. They end up talking and falling for each other in the short ride. Something happen she moves away.

Fast forward 9 years later and they are reunited when she goes back to Chicago for a job and stays to support her dad. Dante went thru it after Simone left, trying to run from her memory he even joined the military. Simone suffered too but became stronger, put her foot with her father took and her life back. Simone has a secret she’s kept front Dante and she is afraid when he finds out he will never forgive her.

This book had me all over the place you could feel the anguish he suffered through, tried wanted to be enough for Simone and her family so she could love him and they could be together. Simone, my heart broke for her when her parents made decisions for her that were in their best interest and not hers. Since she was raised to do as she was told she went along with it against what she felt. This story was just so well written and I loved it. 4.5 stars!! Thank you Bloom Books and NetGalley for letting me read this in exchange for my honest review.

DANTE & SIMONE! Finally. This one totally lived up to my expectations. What a great nod to the most dangerous game - definitely wasn’t expecting that twist at all. Dante deserved this storyline. Great, quick read!

Bloody Heart by Sophie Lark, book four in the Brutal Birthright series, was AWESOME. I love second chance romances when they're done well, and Lark DELIVERS.

[Warning: Spoilers!]

Simone and Dante have an instant, intense connection, reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet--and like the famous star-crossed lovers, their relationship is fraught with challenges. His mafia ties make him dangerous, and when Simone discovers she's pregnant with his child, she flees to England, hiding her pregnancy from everyone, and they don't see each other for almost a decade.

Years later, Simone is a successful international model, and Dante is still an active member of his mafia family after having served in the military. Neither one of them has successfully moved on, and they've both been living alone, silently heartbroken. She unexpectedly returns to town to support her father's organization, and they reunite under stressful circumstances. But it's immediately apparent that their connection is still just as intense as before.

This is a dark mafia romance. There's violence, in and out of the bedroom, but as far as mafia romances go, it's actually pretty mild. If explicit scenes bother you, this probably isn't the series for you. Also, while this is a series, the books can be read as interconnected stand=alones.

Thank you to Bloom Books and Netgalley for my advance review copy. This is probably my favorite of the series so far, which is saying something because I've enjoyed every single one!

I liked this book from the very beginning, the characters are very likeable and even though Simone gets a little annoying you still route for her.
The story line was fast paced, kept you guessing and invested. I was always wondering what was going to happen next and how the book would end.
I will definitely be continuing with this series and am excited to read the first book, as I ended up not realizing this was a series until I started reading this one. Either way, I really liked that you didn’t have to read the whole series to have this book make sense and to love the characters. I really enjoyed the writing style, it had a wonderful flow and really drew me in. Really liked this book!
Thank you NetGalley for my arc copy, I am leaving this review on my own.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Bloody Heart. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rating: 4/5 stars 1.5/5 spice
I liked the story and thought it was it was well written. I was not a big fan of how this person who has been hunting Dante and Simone got wrapped up. It was very meh in my opinion. I liked how we were able to see the main characters in different times of their life and how even when apart, they were still connected. The ending to me was rushed and I felt like her being pregnant again was just a way to make people not mad.

I’m not a huge fan of the accidental pregnancy or the insta love tropes, which makes it hard for me to rate higher than three stars. I did t like how after 9years and a LOT to discuss, Simone and Dante do nothing but sleep together again. And I really felt like I didn’t get to know Simone very well at all. At the beginning when she was faced with a tough convo, she ran. And then 9 years later she learned nothing and ran again. Didn’t like that

Loved the Aida mentions, she is still my absolute favorite from this series!