Member Reviews
Johnny "Romeo" Montanna is the enemy, a man she should stay far away from, but she can't, as he is the man that owns her heart. They started as a little fling, something that feelings shouldn't have had no part in, but somehow they found their way in. But now obligations to their families and rival gangs have made their presence known and pretty much put a stop to things before they ever really had a chance to let those feelings take flight.
Now they are enemies, forced to keep their distance from one another, even if their hearts continue to push them together!
The pages of Love Grudge will have you at their mercy from start to finish, this well penned enemies to lovers story is bound to keep you entertained and on the edge of your seat! These two were never supposed to fall in love, let alone have anything to do with one another, but their hearts got involved and they never had a chance. They fought so much adversity and every step they took closer to one another the more dangerous things got. It wasn't an easy fall at all as they had so much standing in their way, but their hearts wouldn't give up and eventually they won out and these two found the happy they deserved!
I loved this newest offering from Ms. Fernando, it was packed with intensity, emotion, and steam... my three favorite things in an enemies to lovers read and it's characters were pretty amazing too! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, via NetGalley, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Love Grudge is a modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet. Johnny and Julianna are part of rival MC's. A chance meeting will set in motion events that will change not only their lives forever but everyone they know. I enjoyed finding out about the history of the club rivalry especially as we find out at the same time as the main characters. Although her future was decided for her a long time ago Julianna is hopeful that she can find a way out of her arranged marriage. It was nice to read about a woman who wasn't a victim. instead she is strong and resourceful and determined to prove she can rule just as well as any man. I liked how Johnny after slight hesitation was all in and that they supported each other. For me the storyline wasn't too dark but focused more on the forbidden love element of the relationship. A good story with likeable characters.
This was such a great modern retelling of Romeo and Juliette - luckily without the 💀
Johnny and Julianna were never meant to fall in love. Not only is she already promised to another man by her controlling family but worse than that she’s from an MC that is a sworn enemy. Their love seems doomed!
Plenty of action, great spice and an ending that made me very happy. I’d definitely recommend if you’re looking to start a great new series.
I devoured this brand new title in a new outstanding series Love Grudge by Chantal Fernando.
A fun, spicy and downright captivating story.
This is a quick paced book with an engaging story line, gripping writing and likeable characters that will keep you on your toes.
I loved this swoony erotic romance.
The only bad thing about this book is that I finished it in one sitting and I desperately want more!
Thank You NetGalley and Carina Press for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!
It's been quite some time since I've read a Chantal Fernando book; this one does not disappoint.
Love Grudge is the exciting first book in the Angels and Devils MC series and follows the story of Romeo and Julianna. Love Grudge is a modern take on Romeo and Juliet with rival motorcycle clubs. If you know the story of Romeo and Juliet, then you know no good can come from a romance between Romeo and Julianna. Try as they might, Romeo and Julianna couldn't stay apart no matter how hard they tried. The stakes were high for these two characters and I couldn't wait to see how everything would come together in the end.
The Love Grudge kicks off the Angels and Devils MC series with one heck of a start and I look forward to reading more in the future.
What if Romeo and Juliet had a happy ending? What if the story was set in a contemporary world of two warring biker clubs? And what if women had more rights and respect in the biker world? This story answers all those questions and more with a ton of steamy scenes thrown in for good measure!
Love Grudge is the first book in the Angels and Devils MC Series by Chantal Fernando. This is a Romeo and Juliet type tale with the typical forbidden love aspect between dueling families. I’m not typically one for the romeo and juliet type romane but with the motorcycle theme, this one surprisingly worked for me!
Johnny ‘Romeo’ Montanna is so close to getting everything he’s worked so hard for. With his father reaching his 50th birthday, the Devil’s MC is going to soon be handed to him and he’ll become the new President… But something dire is about to step in his path… While his brain wants the patch, his heart may be looking in a different deadlier direction.
Julianna Callisto is the heir to the Angel’s MC, which means she is arranged to marry a man who will soon become the new president of the Angel’s MC…. only Julianna has a new direction she wants to take the MC in, she wants to become the new president… Only her father is strict on her marrying his right hand man.
When Julianna runs into Romeo at her grandfather’s funeral, sparks fly between the two and a forbidden tale is weaved. Now Romeo will do everything in his power to make Julianna his, even if that includes going against his family….
My Thoughts:
Oh My CROW! You know that moment when you don’t realize you miss something until you pick it up and give it a read… That’s how I feel about Chantal Fernando! This is an author who is a master at her craft. She also happens to be one of my favorite Authors when it comes to writing intrancing MC romances! It’s been too long since I last picked up a novel from her. I’m craving a reread on a few series I fell in love with long ago.
But back to Love Grudge! This novel took me on a journey, and I never wanted to step off this ride! For starters, I loved the fact that Romeo and Julianna were both from families who were generational sworn enemies. I also loved the fact that this generational curse was about to be broken. I think this may have been my favorite aspect of the novel.
So let’s start with Julianna. Julianna is probably one of the most independent characters I’ve read in a long time. I loved her fire and her drive for success. I loved the determination she felt when it came down to her legacy. There were times I actually felt angry for her and the situation she was put in in regards to her legacy. I especially loved those special moments her grandmother (Libby Rose) and Julianna shared. These two had more of a mother/daughter relationship than she shared with even her own mother.
And then we have Romeo! I loved Romeo and all his swoony and possessive ways. I loved his overall vibe. This man is definitely a man I would want in my corner at all times. I loved the dangerous vibes he put off, but I also loved the way he was gentle and caring towards Julianna. My heart swooned when he confessed his love to her. When I say swoon, I mean heart eyes and a goofy smile on my face.
The only issue I had with Love Grudge, I would have liked to see the reconnection between two characters in this novel. I’m not going to mention who, due to spoilers. But I wanted more of those moments. There’s another scene I wanted a bit more from, that I thought was a bit too short. Due to spoilers I won’t mention any more of that scene either… Those are the only two reasons why i dropped a star on my rating.
Overall, I have to say, I loved Love Grudge! Chantal Fernando has a way of bringing her readers into her stories and places them on the sidelines. It felt like I was living this tale right alongside Romeo and Julianna. I can’t wait to see where this series leads!!
Love Grudge is a captivating modern adaptation of the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet. In this riveting story, we are introduced to Johnny and Julianna, who find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other. However, their love is hindered by the fact that they belong to rival biker MCs. Julianna is trapped in an arranged marriage, intended to secure her position as the leader of her club, while Johnny is destined to inherit his own club. It appears that their love is doomed from the start, with seemingly no way for them to be together.
This enthralling narrative encompasses the elements of darkness, enemies-turned-lovers, and forbidden love. It strikes the perfect balance between action and passion, providing readers with an exhilarating experience. Chantal Fernando skillfully weaves a fresh and unique twist into this classic tale, making it a truly enjoyable read.
Chantal Fernando is one of my must read authors, her books and the way she writes the world of Motorcycle clubs and their old ladies gets me every time.
This author writes her stories so well that by the end of the book you are truly invested in the characters and their love stories that you feel like you are there with them.
My only complaint about this book was that i felt like the ending was rushed a little and that Romeo and Julianna's story could have been one m0re book.
I have read all of this authors books and she never disappoints. I'm so excited that she started a new MC series. This is a Romeo and Juliette style. True love finds its way in this spicy MC romance.
What was going through the mind of Julianna? Listen, I'm all for "I am woman, hear me roar." I believe women shouldn't be limited in what they want to do with their life. If they want to run a company, go for it! If they want to be a housewife, go for it! If they want to be a mom, go for it! If they want to be president, go for it! But why would a motorcycle club with patched men only in the club . . . be a possibility for a woman to be the president of it? Why? I have to say I'm baffled by this story in some ways.
For Julianna, she will be third generation "running" of this motorcycle club. Her grandparents started the Angels and the president is hereditary through the either the male child or the husband of the female child. What kind of f-ed up rule is this? Apparently one that is prevalent throughout history. And how did that go? Swimmingly if we look at the European royalty or the Asian dynasties. Still, I have to give Julianna props for thinking she can take it over. *climbs onto my soap box* This plot device is so far out there and difficult for me to swallow. I'm not a fan of motorcycle club books. Yes, yes, then why do I read them? I don't know either. However, I do know that there are only about 4 to 5 authors who write motorcycle club series that I will read. Ms. Fernando is one of them. The reason being is that they sugarcoat and romanticize it to the point that it isn't realistic to how motorcycle clubs normally run. And I'm okay with it. I like it this way. Even so, this one is way out there for me that I wore a stupefied look on my face the entire time I read it. *climbs off soap box*
Back to the erotic romance at hand. Julianna and Romeo cross paths and sparks fly. Their grandparents have history and it isn't good. Once the skeletons come out of the closet it becomes drama central. Before Romeo and Julianna are willing to bring everything out into the open, their sneaking around makes their illicit love affair steamy hot. They get it on and burn the sheets up. They are a match sexually and personality wise. I like how Romeo is supportive of Julianna. Even though Julianna wants to be the number 1 in her MC, she still understands how the MC culture works and tries her best to follow and respect it for Romeo's sake. Still, this MC isn't like the Boy Scouts deciding to let girls in. It is much more change than I think the MC can tolerate. Whilst this is a happily ever after at the end of this book, I'm not seeing the best of things unfolding in the future. I am kind of on the side that let men keep their own motorcycle clubs as their "boys club". What I don't agree with in this story is how the Angels wanted to just use Julianna's skills in earning legit money yet give her nothing in return. That is completely unacceptable. Plus the guy she is to marry is a total dud.
There are a few surprises in this story that made it interesting. A couple of them I guessed and one that completely blindsided me. I like when authors can blindside me. This erotic romance is recommended to progressive MC readers who love star crossed lover themes.
"She’s a walking red flag, yet all I can see right now is a carnival."
Love Grudge by Chantal Fernando had me on the edge of my seat the whole time I read this book through the the betrayals along with secrets I did not see coming. This story is a new version Romeo & Juliet Love story of Forbidden Romance, Enemies to Lovers and an Arranged Marriage its a must read romance
Rating ⭐️5/5
Spice 🌶️5/5
OMG Yes!! Chantel.. you outdid yourself with this book. Romeo & Julianna were fire!
Romeo Born to lead the Devils MC and Juilanna the Angels MC Princess and rightful Heir to become the leader..
For Julianna - living in a world where they dont think a woman is allowed or should be allowed to run a MC - She has been pawned off to one of her fathers right hand men.. and he will then lead the MC
On a chance meeting.. these two who are enemies.. know they cannot and should not be together, because of a grudge that goes way back.. but when the feelings start to grow what are these enemies to do?
Chantel.. you are a master with your words.. I have loved everything you have written.. I can not wait for more.. I am hoping for more from this series..
Love Grudge was the gripping first book in the Angels & Devils MC series and with the Romeo and Juliet vibes this story was thrilling, forbidden and passionate. A love story set in the dangerous world of two waring clubs with a long history of holding grudges.
Romeo is on the verge of becoming Prez of the Devils, he's been preparing for a long time to take over his family's legacy so he can't afford any distractions.
Julianna is the granddaughter of the enemy, a rival club, he shouldn't want her but he does.
I loved the connection and the chemistry between Romeo and Julianna they were drawn together even though it was forbidden. They had so much in common, they're both ambitious, dedicated and loyal to their clubs. They fight for what they believe in and they'll go to war for each other.
Their story was fast paced, intense, spicy and dangerous, a gripping page turner from start to finish and I need more.
"She’s a walking red flag, yet all I can see right now is a carnival."
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️.5/5
What to expect
🌻 Modern day Romeo & Juliet retelling
🌻 Sworn Enemies to lovers
🌻 Arranged marriage
🌻 Posessive MMC
🌻 Headstrong FMC
🌻 Forbidden love
🌻 Rival Motorcycle clubs
🌻 Dual first-person POV
🌻 Fast pace story
🌻 Spice
My Thoughts
Johnny "Romeo" Montanna and Julianna Castillo were the heirs to rival MCs, and sworn enemies by association.
Julianna Castillo is confident, headstrong, and an overall powerhouse of a woman. From a young age, her father had arranged for her to be married to his choice of successor, Victor. The time for the arrangement to become a reality was fast approaching and Julianna was determined to do whatever it took to delay the marriage as long as she could.
Johnny "Romeo" Montanna is loyal, protective (a bit more than a little possessive), and has no desire for anything beyond sex - until Julianna.
"You can always sense what a woman wants and needs if you pay attention. And I do. To every gasp, every moan."
Can love really conquer all? Will they be able to break the generation rivalry and find peace amongst the MCs? Or will their love lead to their damnation? Fernando tells a tale full of lust turned into love, spice, drama, biker club turmoil, and a twist I never saw coming. Love Grudge was a fast-paced, page-turning, beautifully written modern-day rendition of the timeless classic of Romeo and Juliet.
“My bounty is as boundless as the sea, My love as deep; the more I give to thee, The more I have, for both are infinite.”
The novel dives deep into the complexities of love, duty, and loyalty, making it a compelling read for fans of intense romance and MC dramas.
The characters of Romeo and Julianna are well-crafted, with their individual struggles and conflicts adding layers to the narrative. Fernando skillfully captures the tension between duty and desire as Romeo grapples with his responsibilities to the Devils MC and his love for Julianna, the granddaughter of a man who has caused turmoil within the club. The emotional depth of their connection resonates throughout the story, creating a compelling central dynamic.
The novel excels in creating a vivid portrayal of the MC world, complete with its own set of rules, conflicts, and power struggles. The author's writing style effectively immerses readers in the gritty atmosphere, adding authenticity to the tale. The tension and rivalries between the Devils and Angels MCs provide a gripping backdrop, setting the stage for a love story that transcends the boundaries of loyalty and rivalry.
The pacing of the plot is well-maintained, with a good balance of emotional moments and action sequences. The narrative unfolds with a sense of urgency, keeping readers invested in the fate of the characters. The author navigates the complexities of the love story and the MC politics with finesse, creating a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and exhilarating.
Chantal Fernando's "Love Grudge" is a gripping tale that explores the sacrifices and challenges of love in the face of duty and loyalty. With well-drawn characters and a vividly depicted MC world, this novel is sure to appeal to fans of intense romance and motorcycle club dramas, earning it a solid 4-star rating.
📖: Love Grudge
🖋️: Chantal Fernando
🗓️: 12/26
⭐️: 5 of 5
🌶️: 5 of 5
💬: “Dinner with my future husband. Then to my lover’s house for a night of hot sex. What a fucking life I live.”
Tropes, Topics & Themes:
✨Romeo and Juliet retelling
✨Arranged marriage
✨Rival MCs groups
✨Spicy
A love triangle that creates two rival MCs, a forbidden romance, and a war building. Can Romeo and Julianna make the ultimate change to bring things back to how they should have been all along?
This Romeo and Juliet retelling motorcycle club style was fun and refreshing. I truly loved it! Can’t wait to check out more books by this author.
With the presidency of Devils MC was passed down from his grandfather to his father. Now, it’s time for Romeo to become president. The role he’s been raised in his whole life.
“I’m not leaving my birthright. This doesn’t belong to Victor—it belongs to me.”
It’s Julianna’s birthright to take over the Angels MC but their world is always being run by men. She is arranged to marry Victor. She won’t give up easily. Fighting for a change and what’s hers. She ends up falling for the new president of the Angels MC.
“I really want this, and I’m not going to let anything stand in the way of me becoming the next president.”
Victor isn’t going to back down from going after what he’s always wanted. Which causes a lot of problems between the Devils and Angels.
This book kept me on my toes! From secrets I never saw coming. From betrayals, forbidden love, spicy fun scenes. I read this book so fast. You will not want to miss out on this book!
“And this is one love grudge that will never be let go.”
Thank you, Chantal Fernando, Harlequin, and Netgalley for this EARC! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared on my Instagram @Alexandriavwilliams_ shortly.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin-Romance and Chantal Fernando for allowing me to review this ARC of Love Grudge!
Love Grudge is a modern revamp of Romeo and Juliet. Characters "Romeo" or Johnny and Julianna fall for each other; however, are both in rival biker MCs. With Julianna set to marry a man in an arranged marriage so he can head up her club and Romeo set to become the heir to his club there doesn't seem like there is a way for them to be together.
This story has the darkness and the enemies to lovers but forbidden love. It has action and spice, but not too much of it. I enjoyed this retelling of a classic with a different spin. I'd recommend it to those that love a little bit of a darker male main character, darker lifestyle, and those that root for true love to win!
Love Grudge is a sort of Romeo and Juliet take on the Motorcycle World and who would be better to tell that story than Chantal Fernando!!
My only complaint is that I found the plot in the middle of the book dragged a bit, compared to the beginning and the end, which is why it took me a while to get through. But overall, it was a cute and entertaining read.
Such a fun take on Romeo and Juliette! The motorcyle club spin, was great! I went into reading this thinking it was going to be tragic, but the story really only resembles Romeo and Juliette in the sense of feuding families and forbidden love. I liked the MCs Romeo and Julianna, they had good chemistry, and there romance didn't feel too rushed or forced. My only complaint is that, I found the plot in the middle of the book dragged a bit, compared to the beginning and the end, which is why it took me awhile to get through. But overall it was a cute and entertaining read.