What do you think?
Rate this book
Original Sin #2
Brutal Legacy
Loving her cost me my youth, my freedom and nearly my life… It’s only right, I take the same from her. A dark mafia second chance romance featuring an ex-special forces Mafia underboss, an arranged marriage made in hell, and the feisty, headstrong object of his obsession. Elio's story.
480 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2025
400 people are currently reading
1,662 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
Read
April 4, 2025Hmm, I'm not quite sure how to express my thoughts on this. 😂 But the most important thing to say is that this book is made just for the safety gang out there! 🥰
Like, this is a SAFE second chance romance, free from those annoying double standards and misogyny. Also, I think this is exactly how the "It's always been you" microtrope is meant to play out. 🤭💗
Spoilers! Spoilers! Spoilers! And loooong review. 🫣
=================
Anyway, into the story. Elio (34) and Georgia (33) first crossed paths when they were just 20 and 19. He was working at her family's stable, and over time, they fell in love. They both had dreams of getting married, starting a family, and eventually leaving that town behind. So, when Elio found the courage, he told her dad that he was in love with her, and wanted to marry her. The prick rich man thought no one was good enough for his daughter, so he set up a scheme that led to Elio being imprisoned for theft. Then the awful father fed Georgia a bunch of outrageous lies, claiming that Elio had skipped town after stealing his money. She was skeptical of her father's words at first and spent months waiting for his return. But he never did, as he was in prison, enduring daily beatings, all thanks to her father.
I'm not exactly sure how long she waited for him, but I feel like it was around a year, or maybe I'm off on that (I can't remember anymore 🥲)??? Anyway, she has a gay best friend who's also looking to leave that town because he can't be himself there. The townsfolk were judgmental, and his family would cut him off. He suggested that they get married in order to receive his inheritance, which would allow them to travel to America and begin a new life there. So that's what they did.
Ren (H from Unholy Vows, boss of Elio in the present time) helped Elio get out of prison, and he also told him that Georgia got married. This broke something in Elio, and since then he has focused his attention on other things just to forget her and her "betrayal". He became a soldier for a few years, and after that, he became the second in command of Ren.
In the present time, Georgia's father is currently in prison, awaiting his trial. His corrupt ways finally caught up with him. So, he struck a deal: he won’t spill the mafia’s secrets as long as Ren and his men keep his daughter safe. Ren figured it was best to send his top guy, Elio, to go get Georgia. They're not just trying to keep their secrets safe; there's also another family that Georgia's dad double-crossed, and these people also want their revenge.
Long story short, they met again as Elio kidnapped Georgia. She didn't recognize him, but for some reason he felt familiar to her. His eye color was his most distinct feature, but since it was different (he has contact lens), she felt confused. It also didn't help that Elio kept his identity a secret, not even sharing his name with her.
=================
I had fun with it because of the faithfulness of the MCs to each other. It's rare to come across a second-chance story where there's celibacy involved in BOTH characters because, more often than not, it's always the FMC who has to live like a nun.
While I really enjoyed that part of the book, these two did a helluva push and pull that went on until about the 80% mark or so. They finally had their real conversation about what happened to them right at the 87% mark. 😶
In the first half, they showed how much they couldn't stand each other, and then in the second half, physical stuff got added, but they skipped over the serious conversations that probably should've happened first. I think I would've liked the story even more if I knew that everything had been sorted out before they got back together. I mean, 14 years is a long time to just ignore their history and what went down in between. 🤷♀️
And while I do understand that Elio's angry, some of his actions still come across as mean and asshole-y. He wasn't the only one who got hurt, but he sure acted like he was the only one with a broken heart. He often makes decisions without checking in with Georgia to see if she's on board with it. She's more like a hostage since a lot of what went down here was her following Elio's orders and meeting up with his demands. 😕 Not saying he didn't do anything for her, I mean, her studio and penthouse were obviously swoonworthy, but still.
Sure, something has changed in their dynamic during the last 20%, but I think that was a bit too late for my taste. Also, it's probably just me, but I feel like he went on punishing her way longer than what would be fair for something she didn't even do. And she just went along with it and didn't fight him. I mean, she did try, but then her attraction and hormones got the best of her, so it's still no use. It's ridiculous how Georgia claims to be mad at him, yet she didn't really put up much of a fight. She basically just let Elio do whatever he wanted with her and her life. 🙃
Ugh. Now this becomes somewhat rant-y, and that's not what I'm even aiming for. 🥲
I really did have fun with some parts, but there’s definitely something off about their dynamics, and I just can't pinpoint it exactly. This one, like the others, has its ups and downs. Every reader is different, and as always, to each their own. I still would recommend this if readers want to read a story that shows that true loves will stand the test of time and that despite the pain, people will always find their way back to each other against all odds.
As for the suspense part, the ending of the bad guy was actually anticlimactic, but maybe because that's not what the author wants to focus on. So, idk.
Overall, they still got back together and were finally on their way to making their younger selves' dreams come true. All in all, I still think it was worth the read. I just don't know what to rate it, so I'm leaving it blank for now. I might come back to update it if the mood strikes.
Book info:
- Second chance (14 yrs)
- Both celibate (I know, RARE!)
- Organized crime romance
- Forced marriage
- Violence
- Kidnapping
- PTSD
- Panic attacks
- Microchipping
- Suicidal ideation
- No cheating, OM/OW, separation
- HEA (married)
- Bonus epilogue (thru newsletter, planning to have a baby)
Notes:
- OW1. Not really. In the beginning of the book, when Elio was following his target, a woman approached him, flirted with him, and groped him. He's not interested at all and shoved her away, but this scene pissed me off. It doesn’t matter who it is; touching someone without their consent is just not okay. So I was angry FOR him.
- OW2. When they went to a boutique store to buy Georgia some clothes, a saleslady tried to flirt with him despite him telling her that Georgia is his wife. Apparently the woman didn't care, but Elio do, so he shut her down right away.
- OM1. Georgia got married to her gay best friend. I think they were married for a decade before he died. She was living with him and his partner. They're just good friends and nothing more.
- OM2. She was supposed to marry someone else to get her protection. Actually, she got married to the OM, but Elio had enough of the scene in front of him and unalived the man, then he asked the same priest to marry them. 😂
- Celibate. They were real celibate; there's no BS where either of them tried to sleep with other people, only that it didn't work. Both of them were just not interested; I mean, Georgia was legally married, and Elio can't stand the idea of touching other women.
Like, this is a SAFE second chance romance, free from those annoying double standards and misogyny. Also, I think this is exactly how the "It's always been you" microtrope is meant to play out. 🤭💗
Spoilers! Spoilers! Spoilers! And loooong review. 🫣
=================
Anyway, into the story. Elio (34) and Georgia (33) first crossed paths when they were just 20 and 19. He was working at her family's stable, and over time, they fell in love. They both had dreams of getting married, starting a family, and eventually leaving that town behind. So, when Elio found the courage, he told her dad that he was in love with her, and wanted to marry her. The prick rich man thought no one was good enough for his daughter, so he set up a scheme that led to Elio being imprisoned for theft. Then the awful father fed Georgia a bunch of outrageous lies, claiming that Elio had skipped town after stealing his money. She was skeptical of her father's words at first and spent months waiting for his return. But he never did, as he was in prison, enduring daily beatings, all thanks to her father.
I'm not exactly sure how long she waited for him, but I feel like it was around a year, or maybe I'm off on that (I can't remember anymore 🥲)??? Anyway, she has a gay best friend who's also looking to leave that town because he can't be himself there. The townsfolk were judgmental, and his family would cut him off. He suggested that they get married in order to receive his inheritance, which would allow them to travel to America and begin a new life there. So that's what they did.
Ren (H from Unholy Vows, boss of Elio in the present time) helped Elio get out of prison, and he also told him that Georgia got married. This broke something in Elio, and since then he has focused his attention on other things just to forget her and her "betrayal". He became a soldier for a few years, and after that, he became the second in command of Ren.
In the present time, Georgia's father is currently in prison, awaiting his trial. His corrupt ways finally caught up with him. So, he struck a deal: he won’t spill the mafia’s secrets as long as Ren and his men keep his daughter safe. Ren figured it was best to send his top guy, Elio, to go get Georgia. They're not just trying to keep their secrets safe; there's also another family that Georgia's dad double-crossed, and these people also want their revenge.
Long story short, they met again as Elio kidnapped Georgia. She didn't recognize him, but for some reason he felt familiar to her. His eye color was his most distinct feature, but since it was different (he has contact lens), she felt confused. It also didn't help that Elio kept his identity a secret, not even sharing his name with her.
=================
I had fun with it because of the faithfulness of the MCs to each other. It's rare to come across a second-chance story where there's celibacy involved in BOTH characters because, more often than not, it's always the FMC who has to live like a nun.
While I really enjoyed that part of the book, these two did a helluva push and pull that went on until about the 80% mark or so. They finally had their real conversation about what happened to them right at the 87% mark. 😶
In the first half, they showed how much they couldn't stand each other, and then in the second half, physical stuff got added, but they skipped over the serious conversations that probably should've happened first. I think I would've liked the story even more if I knew that everything had been sorted out before they got back together. I mean, 14 years is a long time to just ignore their history and what went down in between. 🤷♀️
And while I do understand that Elio's angry, some of his actions still come across as mean and asshole-y. He wasn't the only one who got hurt, but he sure acted like he was the only one with a broken heart. He often makes decisions without checking in with Georgia to see if she's on board with it. She's more like a hostage since a lot of what went down here was her following Elio's orders and meeting up with his demands. 😕 Not saying he didn't do anything for her, I mean, her studio and penthouse were obviously swoonworthy, but still.
Sure, something has changed in their dynamic during the last 20%, but I think that was a bit too late for my taste. Also, it's probably just me, but I feel like he went on punishing her way longer than what would be fair for something she didn't even do. And she just went along with it and didn't fight him. I mean, she did try, but then her attraction and hormones got the best of her, so it's still no use. It's ridiculous how Georgia claims to be mad at him, yet she didn't really put up much of a fight. She basically just let Elio do whatever he wanted with her and her life. 🙃
Ugh. Now this becomes somewhat rant-y, and that's not what I'm even aiming for. 🥲
I really did have fun with some parts, but there’s definitely something off about their dynamics, and I just can't pinpoint it exactly. This one, like the others, has its ups and downs. Every reader is different, and as always, to each their own. I still would recommend this if readers want to read a story that shows that true loves will stand the test of time and that despite the pain, people will always find their way back to each other against all odds.
As for the suspense part, the ending of the bad guy was actually anticlimactic, but maybe because that's not what the author wants to focus on. So, idk.
Overall, they still got back together and were finally on their way to making their younger selves' dreams come true. All in all, I still think it was worth the read. I just don't know what to rate it, so I'm leaving it blank for now. I might come back to update it if the mood strikes.
Book info:
- Second chance (14 yrs)
- Both celibate (I know, RARE!)
- Organized crime romance
- Forced marriage
- Violence
- Kidnapping
- PTSD
- Panic attacks
- Microchipping
- Suicidal ideation
- No cheating, OM/OW, separation
- HEA (married)
- Bonus epilogue (thru newsletter, planning to have a baby)
Notes:
- OW1. Not really. In the beginning of the book, when Elio was following his target, a woman approached him, flirted with him, and groped him. He's not interested at all and shoved her away, but this scene pissed me off. It doesn’t matter who it is; touching someone without their consent is just not okay. So I was angry FOR him.
- OW2. When they went to a boutique store to buy Georgia some clothes, a saleslady tried to flirt with him despite him telling her that Georgia is his wife. Apparently the woman didn't care, but Elio do, so he shut her down right away.
- OM1. Georgia got married to her gay best friend. I think they were married for a decade before he died. She was living with him and his partner. They're just good friends and nothing more.
- OM2. She was supposed to marry someone else to get her protection. Actually, she got married to the OM, but Elio had enough of the scene in front of him and unalived the man, then he asked the same priest to marry them. 😂
- Celibate. They were real celibate; there's no BS where either of them tried to sleep with other people, only that it didn't work. Both of them were just not interested; I mean, Georgia was legally married, and Elio can't stand the idea of touching other women.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Shelved as 'to-be-read'
April 3, 2025ETA: CELIBATE FOR 14 YEARS???? FUCK YES BABY THAT'S MY TYPA MANNNN WHEEEEWWWWW
IT’S SAFE AAAAAAYYYYYY🥳🥳🥳 In my review for KOTC, I mentioned that I was scared because I DESPISE second chance romances due to the double standards in them most of the time but THANKFULLY, this author writes safe stories so WHOOP WHOOP CAN’T WAIT TO READ THIS SOON!!!!
IT’S SAFE AAAAAAYYYYYY🥳🥳🥳 In my review for KOTC, I mentioned that I was scared because I DESPISE second chance romances due to the double standards in them most of the time but THANKFULLY, this author writes safe stories so WHOOP WHOOP CAN’T WAIT TO READ THIS SOON!!!!
April 11, 2025
Georgia and Elio were from two different worlds, but as the old adage goes, love knows no bounds. Having worked hard to prove himself as a stand-up guy, the City Boy gathers his courage and is determined to win over Prosecutor Bellisario.
Moving to California, leaving her homeland of Italy and the pain it holds behind, Georgia spends the next 14 years surviving, but never thriving. But a call from her father’s attorney sets off a series of events and revelations she never could have anticipated.
Brutal Legacy was, in fact, brutal. My heart took a beating as we waited for the misunderstandings and secrets to be revealed. While I’m not always a huge fan of the “misunderstanding” trope, I really did enjoy Georgia and Elio’s story. The action and suspense were enough to keep me engaged while their history had me pounding my fists until everything was out in the open. I do wish there had been a bit more finesse to the big exposé, but it was such a relief when all these big feelings secrets were revealed.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🥰😢😬🥵😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Action, Dark, Suspense
✨ Tropes: Arranged Marriage, Bad Boy x Good Girl, Enemies-to-Lovers, Forced Proximity, Kidnapped/Captive, Mafia/Bratva/Organized Crime, Miscommunication, Rich Boy x Poor Girl, Second Chance
💫 Microtropes: Alphahole, Boy Obsessed, OTT Jealous/Possessive, MINE!, Touch-Her-and-💀, Used as Pawn, Virgin MMC/FMC
💋 Kinks: 🍑, Dirty Talk
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will leave your panties wet and reaching for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: DubCon, Unalìvíng, Vìolençė, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Brutal Legacy is part of the Original Sin series of interconnected standalones.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
Moving to California, leaving her homeland of Italy and the pain it holds behind, Georgia spends the next 14 years surviving, but never thriving. But a call from her father’s attorney sets off a series of events and revelations she never could have anticipated.
Brutal Legacy was, in fact, brutal. My heart took a beating as we waited for the misunderstandings and secrets to be revealed. While I’m not always a huge fan of the “misunderstanding” trope, I really did enjoy Georgia and Elio’s story. The action and suspense were enough to keep me engaged while their history had me pounding my fists until everything was out in the open. I do wish there had been a bit more finesse to the big exposé, but it was such a relief when all these big feelings secrets were revealed.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🥰😢😬🥵😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Action, Dark, Suspense
✨ Tropes: Arranged Marriage, Bad Boy x Good Girl, Enemies-to-Lovers, Forced Proximity, Kidnapped/Captive, Mafia/Bratva/Organized Crime, Miscommunication, Rich Boy x Poor Girl, Second Chance
💫 Microtropes: Alphahole, Boy Obsessed, OTT Jealous/Possessive, MINE!, Touch-Her-and-💀, Used as Pawn, Virgin MMC/FMC
💋 Kinks: 🍑, Dirty Talk
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will leave your panties wet and reaching for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: DubCon, Unalìvíng, Vìolençė, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Brutal Legacy is part of the Original Sin series of interconnected standalones.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
Read
March 28, 2025I got an ARC yaaay. I signed up for it just because it calls to me (I just had the intuition that it would be great)
I will be as honest as possible with no filter. Now I haven't read it yet but I skimmed first to check the safety details.
FOR MY SAFETY GANG
Man, I think Mila Kane made this for us!!!!!
This is a second chance romance but so far as I have skimmed; it is safe.
It has both v leads and both are faithful; has only ever been with each other despite the separation. That is to the extent of what I can say for now.
I can see that I would really enjoy this and to my safety gang out there. I am claiming it, this is written just for us!!!!
RTC!!
I will be as honest as possible with no filter. Now I haven't read it yet but I skimmed first to check the safety details.
FOR MY SAFETY GANG
Man, I think Mila Kane made this for us!!!!!
This is a second chance romance but so far as I have skimmed; it is safe.
It has both v leads and both are faithful; has only ever been with each other despite the separation. That is to the extent of what I can say for now.
I can see that I would really enjoy this and to my safety gang out there. I am claiming it, this is written just for us!!!!
RTC!!
April 4, 2025
“Because loving you isn’t something a man can recover from — or forget. It’s a lifelong condition.”
I read Unholy Vows back in December of 2023, and it's been living in my head rent free ever since. It seems like Brutal Legacy will have the same effect, because I've been obsessing over the story since I picked it up.
I genuinely think Mila Kane is the best mafia romance author I've ever read, I can't find a single fault with any of her stories.
The writing here is perfect, the characters are well-developed, the plot is exciting, and the romance is painfully beautiful.
There's a dual timeline, I loved both the past and present chapters equally, but I gotta say that the past ones had me in such a strong grip, I couldn't wait to get back to them because I NEEDED to know what went wrong between Elio and Georgia.
The tension between the two of them was criminally good and leaping off the page. I felt their pain as if it was my own, and there was A LOT of it.
One of the things I liked most about this, is that neither of them had ever been with anyone else before each other, or since, that's what I call commitment!!!
Also, all the romantic lines *swoons*, Mila Kane can WRITE-write. I have sooo many highlights.
I really did not want this book to end, though I did want them to finally communicate which came near the end, buuut still. I'm a mess okay, I've been HURT by this book and all I can say is thank you.
I loved seeing Renato & Charlie again, and getting to know Giada and Bran whose book I have not yet read (I'll remedy that soon, fear not).
Then there's Massimo who may or may not have stolen the show in a scene or two, I can tell I'm going to love his story as well.
Now, while you can read this as a standalone, I'd recommend you go back and read Unholy Vows first, because it's so much better with the added context. But please, if you love reading mafia books, give this author a try, because you're seriously missing out by not reading her.
*Thank you to the author and Grey's Promotions for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
I read Unholy Vows back in December of 2023, and it's been living in my head rent free ever since. It seems like Brutal Legacy will have the same effect, because I've been obsessing over the story since I picked it up.
I genuinely think Mila Kane is the best mafia romance author I've ever read, I can't find a single fault with any of her stories.
The writing here is perfect, the characters are well-developed, the plot is exciting, and the romance is painfully beautiful.
There's a dual timeline, I loved both the past and present chapters equally, but I gotta say that the past ones had me in such a strong grip, I couldn't wait to get back to them because I NEEDED to know what went wrong between Elio and Georgia.
The tension between the two of them was criminally good and leaping off the page. I felt their pain as if it was my own, and there was A LOT of it.
One of the things I liked most about this, is that neither of them had ever been with anyone else before each other, or since, that's what I call commitment!!!
Also, all the romantic lines *swoons*, Mila Kane can WRITE-write. I have sooo many highlights.
I really did not want this book to end, though I did want them to finally communicate which came near the end, buuut still. I'm a mess okay, I've been HURT by this book and all I can say is thank you.
I loved seeing Renato & Charlie again, and getting to know Giada and Bran whose book I have not yet read (I'll remedy that soon, fear not).
Then there's Massimo who may or may not have stolen the show in a scene or two, I can tell I'm going to love his story as well.
Now, while you can read this as a standalone, I'd recommend you go back and read Unholy Vows first, because it's so much better with the added context. But please, if you love reading mafia books, give this author a try, because you're seriously missing out by not reading her.
*Thank you to the author and Grey's Promotions for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
April 1, 2025
Brutal Legacy was angsty as hell and I was here for it! Well, mostly! Let me explain.
This was our chance to learn what made Elio so broody. I got interested in him when reading King of the Cage, which was his sister, Giada's romance. He is ex-military and now is a mercenary type underboss for the Mafia. He is closed off and unemotional most of the time and now we find out why.
Turns out that he was in love 14 years ago. Her name is Georgia and she's recently been widowed, because of her father's connections, she needs to be protected. So meddling Renato, sends him to retrieve her... for an arranged marriage to someone else. I'm sure that will go just as planned!
The tension and angst between them is through the roof! Only a love that burned bright, could cause a fallout like this. As we uncover what tore them apart, they have to unravel the lies that they've been told and believed all these years. It's painful and "brutal" in all the best ways.
My biggest struggle with this, is the same as with many Second Chance romances. It was a misuse of flashbacks for me. I'm sorry, but nothing pulls me out of the tension happening in the present, like taking us back to watching it all fall apart. I really could not care less. That is a personal preference. I want you to tell me with the current context and pull in just what I need to know. Again, there are very few romances that include this many flashbacks that work completely for me. If that is not an issue for you, then this will be a winner!
I did love watching them reconnect and letting go of the lies they have believed. There was also top tier pining and devotion that they didn't even realize they were doing until confronted with it.
4 Stars
3.5 on the spice scale
CW: Violence, kidnapping, captivity, suicidal ideation (including a situation of Russian Roulette with themselves), PTSD, panic attacks, microchipping, and surveillance
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*
This was our chance to learn what made Elio so broody. I got interested in him when reading King of the Cage, which was his sister, Giada's romance. He is ex-military and now is a mercenary type underboss for the Mafia. He is closed off and unemotional most of the time and now we find out why.
Turns out that he was in love 14 years ago. Her name is Georgia and she's recently been widowed, because of her father's connections, she needs to be protected. So meddling Renato, sends him to retrieve her... for an arranged marriage to someone else. I'm sure that will go just as planned!
The tension and angst between them is through the roof! Only a love that burned bright, could cause a fallout like this. As we uncover what tore them apart, they have to unravel the lies that they've been told and believed all these years. It's painful and "brutal" in all the best ways.
My biggest struggle with this, is the same as with many Second Chance romances. It was a misuse of flashbacks for me. I'm sorry, but nothing pulls me out of the tension happening in the present, like taking us back to watching it all fall apart. I really could not care less. That is a personal preference. I want you to tell me with the current context and pull in just what I need to know. Again, there are very few romances that include this many flashbacks that work completely for me. If that is not an issue for you, then this will be a winner!
I did love watching them reconnect and letting go of the lies they have believed. There was also top tier pining and devotion that they didn't even realize they were doing until confronted with it.
4 Stars
3.5 on the spice scale
CW: Violence, kidnapping, captivity, suicidal ideation (including a situation of Russian Roulette with themselves), PTSD, panic attacks, microchipping, and surveillance
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*
April 5, 2025
safety : 100% safe
no cheating
dual V both each other's first everything
both celibate during the seperation of 14 years
no real owd, just 2 women hitting on him and him shutting them down
omd: -she married her gay bff to be able to escape her dad and mmc thought she left him for om
- she was also forced to marry OM and he kissed her at the wedding but Elio stopped it.
Elio and Georgia made it to my favorite MMCs list, i loved both of them
so the start was a bit slow for me when he first went to get her. it felt off for some reason idk if i was sensing the discomfort threw my phone😂 but i can't pinpoint what was off about their dynamic/ chemistry at first
spoilers ahead?
things i liked :
- everything about their past, reading about how sweet and gentle and romantic Elio was as a boy broke my heart for him💔💔 he turned from a romantic boy who wrote her poems to this vicious killer without her
-the celibacy of course, and it was full 100% celibacy none of that " i tried to be with women and failed " HE NEVER TRIED neither has she. most mmcs swear on their lives that they still loved the fmc yet they whored around, but Elio HATED her for 14 years and still wouldn't be with any other woman.
- the writing was amazing, it's been so long since i've read such amazing beautiful writing in a dark romance book usually they're so meh and mediocre, but this one really scratched an itch.
- how he REALLY hated her at first for what he thought she did, and despite that he was still very much into her, and protected her.
- i was so happy that tommaso found love and died in his arms despite not getting enough time together, when Georgia was talking to Elio about how they were soulmates it made me so sad for drew having lost the man he loved 💔
-i also loved that Tommaso took Georgia with him to America when he saw how heartbroken she was
- how Elio began to change as he accepted his feelings and that he and georgia will always be endgame, how we started to see glimpses of his old poetry spewing self😭💙
what i disliked / felt unbelievable :
- her not recognizing him. i mean sure if they were kids when they seperated i'd understand but the last time she saw him he was a whole grown 20 year old yet she didn't recognize him because he had his signature green eyes covered with contacts... she was still very suspicious and had a feeling that it was him but she still wasn't sure
- i was kinda icked out that she was attracted to him before knowing he was Elio, even if it WAS him.. 14 years of celibacy then she just let a random dude who kidnapped her finger her ?
- I hated how Giada attacked her and threatened her with a knife. i get that Elio is her brother BUT Georgia was literally hostage and forced to marry a man who " hates " her, yet miss Giana im a tech genius im better than everyone else decided to scare her more and put a knife to her throat. that really pissed me off
-Georgia's forgiving Toni and wanting her back as her bodyguard after her betrayal 💀💀 im sorry but Tony had the option TO NOT betray them and possibly get them both killed, she could have told Elio that her wife was kidnapped.
- the overly long seperation, 14 years felt too much tbh .. unless the seperation was caused by a tragedy ( which this was not it was just lies and schemes), then seperation should be more than 10 years
- i loved how they were only a few months apart not those ungodly age gaps, i also loved how georgia was in her 30s
- it took WAY TOO MUCH time to resolve their little misunderstanding/ conflict... they only had like 10% as a real couple
no cheating
dual V both each other's first everything
both celibate during the seperation of 14 years
no real owd, just 2 women hitting on him and him shutting them down
omd: -she married her gay bff to be able to escape her dad and mmc thought she left him for om
- she was also forced to marry OM and he kissed her at the wedding but Elio stopped it.
Elio and Georgia made it to my favorite MMCs list, i loved both of them
so the start was a bit slow for me when he first went to get her. it felt off for some reason idk if i was sensing the discomfort threw my phone😂 but i can't pinpoint what was off about their dynamic/ chemistry at first
spoilers ahead?
things i liked :
- everything about their past, reading about how sweet and gentle and romantic Elio was as a boy broke my heart for him💔💔 he turned from a romantic boy who wrote her poems to this vicious killer without her
-the celibacy of course, and it was full 100% celibacy none of that " i tried to be with women and failed " HE NEVER TRIED neither has she. most mmcs swear on their lives that they still loved the fmc yet they whored around, but Elio HATED her for 14 years and still wouldn't be with any other woman.
- the writing was amazing, it's been so long since i've read such amazing beautiful writing in a dark romance book usually they're so meh and mediocre, but this one really scratched an itch.
- how he REALLY hated her at first for what he thought she did, and despite that he was still very much into her, and protected her.
- i was so happy that tommaso found love and died in his arms despite not getting enough time together, when Georgia was talking to Elio about how they were soulmates it made me so sad for drew having lost the man he loved 💔
-i also loved that Tommaso took Georgia with him to America when he saw how heartbroken she was
- how Elio began to change as he accepted his feelings and that he and georgia will always be endgame, how we started to see glimpses of his old poetry spewing self😭💙
what i disliked / felt unbelievable :
- her not recognizing him. i mean sure if they were kids when they seperated i'd understand but the last time she saw him he was a whole grown 20 year old yet she didn't recognize him because he had his signature green eyes covered with contacts... she was still very suspicious and had a feeling that it was him but she still wasn't sure
- i was kinda icked out that she was attracted to him before knowing he was Elio, even if it WAS him.. 14 years of celibacy then she just let a random dude who kidnapped her finger her ?
- I hated how Giada attacked her and threatened her with a knife. i get that Elio is her brother BUT Georgia was literally hostage and forced to marry a man who " hates " her, yet miss Giana im a tech genius im better than everyone else decided to scare her more and put a knife to her throat. that really pissed me off
-Georgia's forgiving Toni and wanting her back as her bodyguard after her betrayal 💀💀 im sorry but Tony had the option TO NOT betray them and possibly get them both killed, she could have told Elio that her wife was kidnapped.
- the overly long seperation, 14 years felt too much tbh .. unless the seperation was caused by a tragedy ( which this was not it was just lies and schemes), then seperation should be more than 10 years
- i loved how they were only a few months apart not those ungodly age gaps, i also loved how georgia was in her 30s
- it took WAY TOO MUCH time to resolve their little misunderstanding/ conflict... they only had like 10% as a real couple
April 11, 2025
THE MAN WAS CELIBATE FOR 14 FUCKING YEARS ??!!? COME OVER HERE RIGHT NOW ELIO !!!! 🙌🏼 house is cleaned, food is on the table, laundry is done, and as many kids as you motherfucking want 🧎🏻♀️
something about this book just did it for me. i was feeling ALL the feels. sobbing, fuming, grabbing my rose the next second. ugh i knew elio would completely ruin me. i’m so down bad for him it’s insane.
this is a mafia romance, best friends to lovers to betrayal to hostage to lovers, arranged marriage, fashion designer fmc + heartbroken mmc, ex-military, on the run, miscommunication, forbidden, flashbacks, duo pov 🖤
georgia and elio’s forbidden relationship was so beautiful 😭 i loved reading about how they couldn’t help but be drawn to each other all those years ago. the way they’re so perfect together makes my heart yearn for it too. i sobbed so much while reading this and i literally don’t even know why. it was just so emotional and i feel like they’re going to be my favorite couple in this new series 🥹
elio’s life was full of pain and suffering. he had to grow up so fast. he knew he couldn’t take care of his sister while also trying to survive living in the streets at such a young age. he’s a thief and when one day he stole from a man who shouldn’t be messed with, he finds himself living out in the barnes and stables of the home to a mafia boss. he meets georgia and instantly they just connected. they would sneak off together and learn about one another. they were planning to leave together but when elio was sent out to deliver a couple items, he completely falls off the face of the earth. when georgia finds out what happened … hearts are broken. souls are lost. and hatred fueled the fire.
the i fell so hard for elio even when he was being such a dick to georgia is so illegal 🤭
“i’m good with my restraints.” YEAH BOY SHOW ME 😩 the mouth and aura of this man is so fucking hot it’s insane. i wish i got to know a bit more about what he went through but honestly it didn’t take away anything from his character development at all.
i’m still tearing up from this book. someone sedate me PLEASE 🧎🏻♀️ absolutely loving this series so far and i can’t wait to continue with the rest as it comes out !!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
something about this book just did it for me. i was feeling ALL the feels. sobbing, fuming, grabbing my rose the next second. ugh i knew elio would completely ruin me. i’m so down bad for him it’s insane.
this is a mafia romance, best friends to lovers to betrayal to hostage to lovers, arranged marriage, fashion designer fmc + heartbroken mmc, ex-military, on the run, miscommunication, forbidden, flashbacks, duo pov 🖤
georgia and elio’s forbidden relationship was so beautiful 😭 i loved reading about how they couldn’t help but be drawn to each other all those years ago. the way they’re so perfect together makes my heart yearn for it too. i sobbed so much while reading this and i literally don’t even know why. it was just so emotional and i feel like they’re going to be my favorite couple in this new series 🥹
elio’s life was full of pain and suffering. he had to grow up so fast. he knew he couldn’t take care of his sister while also trying to survive living in the streets at such a young age. he’s a thief and when one day he stole from a man who shouldn’t be messed with, he finds himself living out in the barnes and stables of the home to a mafia boss. he meets georgia and instantly they just connected. they would sneak off together and learn about one another. they were planning to leave together but when elio was sent out to deliver a couple items, he completely falls off the face of the earth. when georgia finds out what happened … hearts are broken. souls are lost. and hatred fueled the fire.
the i fell so hard for elio even when he was being such a dick to georgia is so illegal 🤭
“i’m good with my restraints.” YEAH BOY SHOW ME 😩 the mouth and aura of this man is so fucking hot it’s insane. i wish i got to know a bit more about what he went through but honestly it didn’t take away anything from his character development at all.
i’m still tearing up from this book. someone sedate me PLEASE 🧎🏻♀️ absolutely loving this series so far and i can’t wait to continue with the rest as it comes out !!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 10, 2025
Loved it by the end ❤
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: second chance
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I have to say, I normally love Mila Kane's books, but I did struggle with this one in the beginning. I had a hard time getting into it and it wasn't helped by the multiple flashbacks. I ended up putting it down, but came back to it and ended up loving it. The hero was completely obsessed and the pacing picked up quite a bit with more action and angst between the MCs.
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: second chance
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I have to say, I normally love Mila Kane's books, but I did struggle with this one in the beginning. I had a hard time getting into it and it wasn't helped by the multiple flashbacks. I ended up putting it down, but came back to it and ended up loving it. The hero was completely obsessed and the pacing picked up quite a bit with more action and angst between the MCs.
April 5, 2025
This book had so much potential but it fell flat and pissed me off. 2 stars for 14 years of celibacy. "It's always been you" done right.
But the push and cruelty from the H went on way. Too. Long. When i saw i had read 90% of the book and there was no time to grovel i basically gave up and skimmed. A 14 yr miscommunication trope is not okay. Elio could have found her, fought harder, TALKED...but no. He treated her like garbage and basically had 0 remorse when he found out the truth. So it was 400 pages of me waiting for an epic blow up and grovel but it fell so flat. Why wasn't he more pissed off??? Why didn't get feel worse about how terribly he treated her?? I'm so disappointed.
But the push and cruelty from the H went on way. Too. Long. When i saw i had read 90% of the book and there was no time to grovel i basically gave up and skimmed. A 14 yr miscommunication trope is not okay. Elio could have found her, fought harder, TALKED...but no. He treated her like garbage and basically had 0 remorse when he found out the truth. So it was 400 pages of me waiting for an epic blow up and grovel but it fell so flat. Why wasn't he more pissed off??? Why didn't get feel worse about how terribly he treated her?? I'm so disappointed.
April 7, 2025
"Beneath the frozen river,
currents still run"
5 thousand stars please
*sighhhh leaning towards the floor*
this book was so cute it make me giggle.
there were times i wanted to shake them both for being so stubborn and stupid at the same time.
their miscommunication was rasing my bp i am sure. everything they decided to shutup instead of speak it was facepalm for me.
i really enjoyed the back and forth b/w the part and present their past broke me heart honestly but also made me mad becoz there were so many ways they could've tried to connect but they didnt...ummm 🙄🙄 idiots.
though loved loved this book...but she doesnt recognize his face even though he just grew up and became a man?? lol lets be real i mean its not like he changed his face entirely for her NOT to recognize him lolol. as if the contacts will change his entire appearance? i mean lol? very sus.
but anyway, i enjoyed this book sooo much he is such a daddy definitely another book boyfriend.
His entire demeanor was so old romance/gentlemanly type-ish?? idk like chosing to sleep on the floor?? that was so cute awww 😍😍 but dont get me wrong he made me sweat numerous time sksks...he's very hot 🔥💦
i love how this author makes the fmcs realistic...like she is in her thirties and her life is falling apart, her plans didnt workout and all. i was sick of reading about fmcs who've become ceo's or partners at their firms before even 27-28 ughh so that was nice for a change.
I CANNOT WAIT FOR MASSIMO'S STORY OMG HE GOT ME BLUSHING ALREADY 😚
currents still run"
5 thousand stars please
*sighhhh leaning towards the floor*
this book was so cute it make me giggle.
there were times i wanted to shake them both for being so stubborn and stupid at the same time.
their miscommunication was rasing my bp i am sure. everything they decided to shutup instead of speak it was facepalm for me.
i really enjoyed the back and forth b/w the part and present their past broke me heart honestly but also made me mad becoz there were so many ways they could've tried to connect but they didnt...ummm 🙄🙄 idiots.
though loved loved this book...but she doesnt recognize his face even though he just grew up and became a man?? lol lets be real i mean its not like he changed his face entirely for her NOT to recognize him lolol. as if the contacts will change his entire appearance? i mean lol? very sus.
but anyway, i enjoyed this book sooo much he is such a daddy definitely another book boyfriend.
His entire demeanor was so old romance/gentlemanly type-ish?? idk like chosing to sleep on the floor?? that was so cute awww 😍😍 but dont get me wrong he made me sweat numerous time sksks...he's very hot 🔥💦
i love how this author makes the fmcs realistic...like she is in her thirties and her life is falling apart, her plans didnt workout and all. i was sick of reading about fmcs who've become ceo's or partners at their firms before even 27-28 ughh so that was nice for a change.
I CANNOT WAIT FOR MASSIMO'S STORY OMG HE GOT ME BLUSHING ALREADY 😚
April 13, 2025
Now, this is my kind of second chance romance
April 1, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Tropes:
Arranged Marriage
Tracking/Stalking
Ex-Military Hero
Dark Mafia World
Second Chance
Protective and possessive Hero
Enemies to Lovers
Fiesty Heroine
Quotes:
"You're my wife. You're mine to protect until the day I die. Mine." The last left me in a possessive growl.
"I wanted to be that boy she'd loved. The one who could have deserved her one day. Not this broken man who I'd become. An assassin, a ghoul, a stain on the world."
"I'd always been her most devoted worshipper, even when I thought I hated her."
The way Mila Kane writes these mafia stories!! OOF! I'm like a kid at the candy store!! I cannot get enough!!! I will gobble up anything she writes!!
Brutal Legacy is a second chance romance --- Elio and Georgia are young lovers but are ripped apart - neither of them fully understanding the entire story. And then years go by and they're forced into each other's lives again and even though they hate each other, Elio can't help himself and still needs to be possessive and protective of Georgia. He cannot help it. And I love a possessive protector!!
I do want to mention... I have sort of read Mila's books out of order... I don't think you need to necessarily read them in order .... but I recommend it because they're all interconnected and you'll see cameos of other characters from other books. I will need to go back to the beginning after this and start there. I also didn't read the first book (Unholy Vows) of this duet because this was an ARC and needed to be read soon... But I will definitely be going back to read it because I love all the characters she writes.
Thank you Mila for the ARC! I so loved it!!
Tropes:
Arranged Marriage
Tracking/Stalking
Ex-Military Hero
Dark Mafia World
Second Chance
Protective and possessive Hero
Enemies to Lovers
Fiesty Heroine
Quotes:
"You're my wife. You're mine to protect until the day I die. Mine." The last left me in a possessive growl.
"I wanted to be that boy she'd loved. The one who could have deserved her one day. Not this broken man who I'd become. An assassin, a ghoul, a stain on the world."
"I'd always been her most devoted worshipper, even when I thought I hated her."
The way Mila Kane writes these mafia stories!! OOF! I'm like a kid at the candy store!! I cannot get enough!!! I will gobble up anything she writes!!
Brutal Legacy is a second chance romance --- Elio and Georgia are young lovers but are ripped apart - neither of them fully understanding the entire story. And then years go by and they're forced into each other's lives again and even though they hate each other, Elio can't help himself and still needs to be possessive and protective of Georgia. He cannot help it. And I love a possessive protector!!
I do want to mention... I have sort of read Mila's books out of order... I don't think you need to necessarily read them in order .... but I recommend it because they're all interconnected and you'll see cameos of other characters from other books. I will need to go back to the beginning after this and start there. I also didn't read the first book (Unholy Vows) of this duet because this was an ARC and needed to be read soon... But I will definitely be going back to read it because I love all the characters she writes.
Thank you Mila for the ARC! I so loved it!!
March 31, 2025
Not me, reading the entire book before realizing that supporting characters Bran and Giada were from King of the Cage, ALSO by Mila Kane. Doh. The funny part about that is one of my review comments on that one was that I wished we saw more of Giada's hacking skills and we definitely saw A LOT more of that in this book. I honestly wish we saw more of Bran in this book as well.
But back to THIS book. I'm coming to learn that I really enjoy Mila Kane's writing and characters. MMC Elio couldn't be any more different from Bran if he tried and yet he is equally appealing in his own broody, tortured way. And TWELVE YEARS of mutual pining?! TWELVE. YEARS. That was unexpected, but also made my cold, dead heart flutter a little bit.
I would have liked to know more about Tommaso's illness and his partner, it felt weird how little information we learned about them in spite of being such a massive part of FMC Georgia's life for so long. And I didn't realize going into this book that is was the second in a standalone series. I typically try to read earlier books in that situation, but didn't have time this go around. That said, they are truly standalones and I don't feel like it took away from this one.
This was a slow burn and I really wish there was more spice, but the spice that was in the book was good - 3 out of 5. Other tropes in this book are touch her and die, morally black MMC, second chance, mafia.
But back to THIS book. I'm coming to learn that I really enjoy Mila Kane's writing and characters. MMC Elio couldn't be any more different from Bran if he tried and yet he is equally appealing in his own broody, tortured way. And TWELVE YEARS of mutual pining?! TWELVE. YEARS. That was unexpected, but also made my cold, dead heart flutter a little bit.
I would have liked to know more about Tommaso's illness and his partner, it felt weird how little information we learned about them in spite of being such a massive part of FMC Georgia's life for so long. And I didn't realize going into this book that is was the second in a standalone series. I typically try to read earlier books in that situation, but didn't have time this go around. That said, they are truly standalones and I don't feel like it took away from this one.
This was a slow burn and I really wish there was more spice, but the spice that was in the book was good - 3 out of 5. Other tropes in this book are touch her and die, morally black MMC, second chance, mafia.
April 7, 2025
The H PISSED me off. oh my god, you would think the dual v and 14 years of celibacy would help, but NO. he was such a fucking asshole. UGH.
April 3, 2025
I usually avoid second-chance romances, especially ones with dual timelines, but this book completely took me by surprise. The past and present were woven together so well that, for once, the shifting timelines didn’t frustrate me—it actually made the story more emotional and immersive.
I really liked the FMC. She was strong, resilient, and easy to root for. The MMC, though? He got on my nerves. He was so determined to hate her without even trying to understand what really happened. Thankfully, he did regret his actions later, but I wish he had tried to see the truth sooner.
Another thing that bothered me was how long the misunderstanding dragged on—it wasn’t cleared up until nearly 80% into the book! I kept waiting for that moment of clarity, but it took forever to get there. It would have been so much better if they had talked things out earlier, leaving more room for them to rebuild their relationship.
I also wish there had been some confrontation with the FMC’s father. He played a huge role in their separation, and it felt like he got off too easily.
But what I absolutely loved—the thing that sealed the deal for me—was that both the MMC and FMC were each other’s firsts and stayed celibate after they separated. That little detail made their reunion feel so much more meaningful.
Despite my usual preferences, I really enjoyed this book. It had its frustrating moments, but I couldn’t put it down. Definitely a read worth picking up!
I really liked the FMC. She was strong, resilient, and easy to root for. The MMC, though? He got on my nerves. He was so determined to hate her without even trying to understand what really happened. Thankfully, he did regret his actions later, but I wish he had tried to see the truth sooner.
Another thing that bothered me was how long the misunderstanding dragged on—it wasn’t cleared up until nearly 80% into the book! I kept waiting for that moment of clarity, but it took forever to get there. It would have been so much better if they had talked things out earlier, leaving more room for them to rebuild their relationship.
I also wish there had been some confrontation with the FMC’s father. He played a huge role in their separation, and it felt like he got off too easily.
But what I absolutely loved—the thing that sealed the deal for me—was that both the MMC and FMC were each other’s firsts and stayed celibate after they separated. That little detail made their reunion feel so much more meaningful.
Despite my usual preferences, I really enjoyed this book. It had its frustrating moments, but I couldn’t put it down. Definitely a read worth picking up!
April 3, 2025
Brutal Legacy is the second book in the Original Sin series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Elio had been sweet and caring, and he was so in love with Georgia when they were younger. But after years apart, he changed and became cruel and bitter. He became someone else.
Georgia had been young and in love, and she was full of hope. But after losing Elio, she kind changed too. She didn’t have as much passion as she once had.
When they reconnected, there was so much anger and angst. They hated each other and loved each other.
This was told in dual timeline, so it switched between past and present to show what happened between Elio and Georgia, and it showed how much they’d changed.
Elio was angry, for sure. But he still had that side of him that was sweet and loving and protective, especially when it came to Georgia.
Second chance romance isn’t always my favorite, but this one was great. It had one of my favorite things in second chance romances . The suspense was done well, and I loved seeing Elio and Georgia actually talk and let go of what happened before.
Elio had been sweet and caring, and he was so in love with Georgia when they were younger. But after years apart, he changed and became cruel and bitter. He became someone else.
Georgia had been young and in love, and she was full of hope. But after losing Elio, she kind changed too. She didn’t have as much passion as she once had.
When they reconnected, there was so much anger and angst. They hated each other and loved each other.
This was told in dual timeline, so it switched between past and present to show what happened between Elio and Georgia, and it showed how much they’d changed.
Elio was angry, for sure. But he still had that side of him that was sweet and loving and protective, especially when it came to Georgia.
Second chance romance isn’t always my favorite, but this one was great. It had one of my favorite things in second chance romances . The suspense was done well, and I loved seeing Elio and Georgia actually talk and let go of what happened before.
March 28, 2025
I love Mila Kane's books. They drag you in and keep you hooked until the very end.
Elio and Georgia met when they were young. Her father took him in and gave him a chance, but with one condition, his daughter Georgia was off limits. This only worked for a while. The connection and pull between them was so strong they couldn't stay away from each other. When Elio made a decision to ask for permission to marry Georgia, it was a grave mistake that changed the course of their lives going forward.
When they met again, they were both different and hated each other.
This book was again fantastic. The suspense, spice, and angst were perfectly set, and I couldn't put it down. The storyline was fantastic as well, it was heartbreaking and maddening but beautiful.
I definitely recommend 👌
Elio and Georgia met when they were young. Her father took him in and gave him a chance, but with one condition, his daughter Georgia was off limits. This only worked for a while. The connection and pull between them was so strong they couldn't stay away from each other. When Elio made a decision to ask for permission to marry Georgia, it was a grave mistake that changed the course of their lives going forward.
When they met again, they were both different and hated each other.
This book was again fantastic. The suspense, spice, and angst were perfectly set, and I couldn't put it down. The storyline was fantastic as well, it was heartbreaking and maddening but beautiful.
I definitely recommend 👌
April 3, 2025
I was looking forward to Brutal Legacy, because I have read and enjoyed books by this author.
Sadly, and I really don’t know what it exactly was, but it fell flat for me. Maybe I’ve read too many Mafia books lately, but the arranged marriage trope is running its course for me. I also had a feeling that these families exist in other books and there were too many names dropped early on, that confused me.
I did like the younger Elio and Georgia flashbacks, these were well incorporated between chapters. I also liked that the FMC and MMC were in their 30’s.
I would like to thank the author and Grey’s Promotions for the opportunity to receive an advanced reading copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sadly, and I really don’t know what it exactly was, but it fell flat for me. Maybe I’ve read too many Mafia books lately, but the arranged marriage trope is running its course for me. I also had a feeling that these families exist in other books and there were too many names dropped early on, that confused me.
I did like the younger Elio and Georgia flashbacks, these were well incorporated between chapters. I also liked that the FMC and MMC were in their 30’s.
I would like to thank the author and Grey’s Promotions for the opportunity to receive an advanced reading copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 8, 2025
Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Elio and Georgia
I've been itching for Elio's story since reading King of the Cage. I can't help it, the closed off broody guys always suck me in. And he's ex-military which is another weakness of mine. This man was in love with Georgia 14 years ago and even though it didn't work out he stayed celibate the entire time. Seriously, enough said. I love him.
This is told in a dual timeline to show the past and the present. We get to see Elio and Georgia get together and it not work out. And then we see them now while they navigate their second chance.
I love Mila's writing. She always gives us characters it's impossible to not fall in love with, swoony moments, an intense romance, steamy moments, and lots of action to fit the dark mafia theme. This book was no different. It was hard to put down and so good from start to finish. I would have preferred a bit less of the past and more of the present but that's more of a personal preference than the story or writing.
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Elio and Georgia
I've been itching for Elio's story since reading King of the Cage. I can't help it, the closed off broody guys always suck me in. And he's ex-military which is another weakness of mine. This man was in love with Georgia 14 years ago and even though it didn't work out he stayed celibate the entire time. Seriously, enough said. I love him.
This is told in a dual timeline to show the past and the present. We get to see Elio and Georgia get together and it not work out. And then we see them now while they navigate their second chance.
I love Mila's writing. She always gives us characters it's impossible to not fall in love with, swoony moments, an intense romance, steamy moments, and lots of action to fit the dark mafia theme. This book was no different. It was hard to put down and so good from start to finish. I would have preferred a bit less of the past and more of the present but that's more of a personal preference than the story or writing.
April 5, 2025
the writing was really beautiful
April 3, 2025
Once upon a time there was a girl and a guy. They fell in love and life tore them apart. But that was then and this is now.
Elio Santori, the sottocapo of Renato De Sanctis, has one mission. To kidnap the daughter of a crooked prosecutor and deliver her to her future husband. But this isn’t just any woman, Georgia once held a different place in his life…the woman who held his sealed up heart. As they spend time with each other, secrets of their past uncover and the tragic love story between a homeless young man and his forbidden lover comes to light.
Whew, this book made me feel emotions in a way that I wasn’t anticipating. It wasn’t just an enemies to lovers or second chance romance, it was so much deeper and beyond anything I have read recently.
“Before she’d come into my life, I hadn’t taken pleasure in anything at all. Now my pleasure lived in her smile.”
The contrast between now and then, the flashbacks of their relationship and what went down versus the hardened reality of their present situation was done so well and I found myself riveted by the youthful idealization with its sharp contrast to the pain of their aftermath. The only way I can describe it is like the rose coloured lenses that existed had washed away and now the reality of their miserable separation takes a toll on them both.
Georgia and Elio was truly made for each other. It’s like they haven’t been breathing for the past decade and only until they are reunited once more that they come to life. The chemistry was literally as hot as the sun, whether they were fighting or loving, every second was on fire.
And the biggest thing that stood out to me was how revenant and special their young love felt. I adored the respect and true love between them. This isn’t just your average mafia romance that has insta love or overt sexual attraction as the base of their relationship. No, Georgia and Elio were ride or die and knew they were it for each other. Until they weren’t, of course.
Elio was enigmatic and my heart bled for him on every page. Ladies and gentlemen, this is a MANNNNN 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻 Watching Elio fall for the unattainable beauty that is Georgia felt mesmerizing. Mila Kane has a way with words that has me obsessed (I binged her entire catalog after discovering Wicked Heir a few years ago) and seeing his poetic nature come forward, it’s just so rare to get a mafia man who is so expressive and emotionally intelligent. Even after being so jaded by the perceived betrayal, Elio’s protective nature and inner need to nurture and provide for Georgia was ever present. He is a gem through and through and I fell for this man probably as hard as Georgia did. I know he’s fictional but wow, I can’t even express how amazing Elio was.
I have to give a shoutout to the wedding scene, it was so well written and probably one of the most exhilarating and heart pounding weddings I have ever read. I wasn’t able to anticipate what was going to happen and the adrenaline rush I got from it, bravo 👏🏼
“And I was hers, and she was mine…and no one could take her away from me…and no one ever would.”
This book really hit all the marks for me. It was the best mafia romance that was the perfect balance of plot and relationship. I had FUN reading it (that is, when I wasn’t bawling my eyes out). One thing is for certain, our star crossed lovers Elio and Georgia will stay with me for a long time.
Elio Santori, the sottocapo of Renato De Sanctis, has one mission. To kidnap the daughter of a crooked prosecutor and deliver her to her future husband. But this isn’t just any woman, Georgia once held a different place in his life…the woman who held his sealed up heart. As they spend time with each other, secrets of their past uncover and the tragic love story between a homeless young man and his forbidden lover comes to light.
Whew, this book made me feel emotions in a way that I wasn’t anticipating. It wasn’t just an enemies to lovers or second chance romance, it was so much deeper and beyond anything I have read recently.
“Before she’d come into my life, I hadn’t taken pleasure in anything at all. Now my pleasure lived in her smile.”
The contrast between now and then, the flashbacks of their relationship and what went down versus the hardened reality of their present situation was done so well and I found myself riveted by the youthful idealization with its sharp contrast to the pain of their aftermath. The only way I can describe it is like the rose coloured lenses that existed had washed away and now the reality of their miserable separation takes a toll on them both.
Georgia and Elio was truly made for each other. It’s like they haven’t been breathing for the past decade and only until they are reunited once more that they come to life. The chemistry was literally as hot as the sun, whether they were fighting or loving, every second was on fire.
And the biggest thing that stood out to me was how revenant and special their young love felt. I adored the respect and true love between them. This isn’t just your average mafia romance that has insta love or overt sexual attraction as the base of their relationship. No, Georgia and Elio were ride or die and knew they were it for each other. Until they weren’t, of course.
Elio was enigmatic and my heart bled for him on every page. Ladies and gentlemen, this is a MANNNNN 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻 Watching Elio fall for the unattainable beauty that is Georgia felt mesmerizing. Mila Kane has a way with words that has me obsessed (I binged her entire catalog after discovering Wicked Heir a few years ago) and seeing his poetic nature come forward, it’s just so rare to get a mafia man who is so expressive and emotionally intelligent. Even after being so jaded by the perceived betrayal, Elio’s protective nature and inner need to nurture and provide for Georgia was ever present. He is a gem through and through and I fell for this man probably as hard as Georgia did. I know he’s fictional but wow, I can’t even express how amazing Elio was.
I have to give a shoutout to the wedding scene, it was so well written and probably one of the most exhilarating and heart pounding weddings I have ever read. I wasn’t able to anticipate what was going to happen and the adrenaline rush I got from it, bravo 👏🏼
“And I was hers, and she was mine…and no one could take her away from me…and no one ever would.”
This book really hit all the marks for me. It was the best mafia romance that was the perfect balance of plot and relationship. I had FUN reading it (that is, when I wasn’t bawling my eyes out). One thing is for certain, our star crossed lovers Elio and Georgia will stay with me for a long time.
April 5, 2025
Mila Kane is one of my all time favorite authors. I am obsessed with her stories and love how they all tie together in some way. When I saw this ARC sign up even though I was supposed to take a break from ARCs I signed up INSTANTLY. I legit screamed when I got the email saying I was picked. This is a standalone and it doesn't really spoil any of her other books but there are characters from her other books that appear in this one. I do however reccomend reading all her books because they seriously are so good!
Georgia
She has a smart mouth and I absolutely love her for it. She is unapologetically herself even if her current self is tired. She doesn't back down and speaks her mind. She wishes to be a famous fashion designer and leave her small town. Her whole life changes when she finds her city mouse.
Elio
He was highly trust man in "the family" and followed every order without question. He believes he no longer has a heart and that what killed it was a women named Georgia. He is protective of what he loves and will stop at nothing to save it. Elio is the tragic character in this story. Being punished and hurt over and over for being in love to the point his heart stopped beating and he turned into a robot. He was a poet turned mercenary all because of who his heart decided to love.
This book was so perfectly written and i truly enjoyed the flashbacks. They were perfectly timed and felt like a movie. Always giving the necessary information for a given moment but kept you wanting more.
There was never a moment that dragged out and it felt like such a natural accurate pace. I was sucked in the entire time.
I seriously love when Mila let's us see characters from her other books, it always makes me so happy. Elio's sister is such a badA i really need to read her book again. I also felt like we got massive hints about future books and I cannot wait to read more of her stories.
I didn't have as many notes for this review because I just couldn't put the book down. The ending honestly surprised me a bit and I loved every single second of it.
“Beneath this skin, a world waits to be discovered. Beneath this mundane existence, galaxies stir in wonder. Beneath the frozen river, currents still run. Beneath stone and concrete, seeds push through— And those seeds can lift whole buildings.”
Georgia
She has a smart mouth and I absolutely love her for it. She is unapologetically herself even if her current self is tired. She doesn't back down and speaks her mind. She wishes to be a famous fashion designer and leave her small town. Her whole life changes when she finds her city mouse.
Elio
He was highly trust man in "the family" and followed every order without question. He believes he no longer has a heart and that what killed it was a women named Georgia. He is protective of what he loves and will stop at nothing to save it. Elio is the tragic character in this story. Being punished and hurt over and over for being in love to the point his heart stopped beating and he turned into a robot. He was a poet turned mercenary all because of who his heart decided to love.
This book was so perfectly written and i truly enjoyed the flashbacks. They were perfectly timed and felt like a movie. Always giving the necessary information for a given moment but kept you wanting more.
There was never a moment that dragged out and it felt like such a natural accurate pace. I was sucked in the entire time.
I seriously love when Mila let's us see characters from her other books, it always makes me so happy. Elio's sister is such a badA i really need to read her book again. I also felt like we got massive hints about future books and I cannot wait to read more of her stories.
I didn't have as many notes for this review because I just couldn't put the book down. The ending honestly surprised me a bit and I loved every single second of it.
“Beneath this skin, a world waits to be discovered. Beneath this mundane existence, galaxies stir in wonder. Beneath the frozen river, currents still run. Beneath stone and concrete, seeds push through— And those seeds can lift whole buildings.”
April 7, 2025
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
Spice 🌶🌶
“You’re mine, in this life, and the next… I will never let you go.”
Mila Kane has done it again! Brutal Legacy is a five-star masterpiece that had me hooked from the very first page. No one writes Mafia romance like Mila, her stories are gripping, emotional, and utterly impossible to put down. This book was no exception. I devoured it in one sitting and was left desperate for more.
This story is a storm of heartbreak, betrayal, and a beautifully painful journey toward healing. Told through a dual timeline of ‘then’ and ‘now,’ it slowly unravels the devastating events that shattered Elio and Georgia’s love fourteen years ago. Their past was filled with tenderness and love, but in one cruel moment, everything was destroyed, leaving behind only bitterness and wreckage.
Elio is no longer the boy who once loved Georgia with playful sweetness. That warmth is gone, replaced by a ruthless, hardened man, one hollowed out by betrayal. Georgia, too, has never truly moved on. She’s haunted by the loss of the only love she ever knew, surviving rather than living. Both of them believe the other was responsible for their destruction, but neither knows the brutal truth that tore them apart. When fate forces them back together, the tension is unbearable. Every interaction is laced with pain, longing, and unresolved emotions. The push and pull between them is agonizing, blurring the line between love and hate in a way that only Mila Kane can execute so perfectly. Watching them uncover buried secrets, untangle the lies, and fight their way back to each other was breathtaking. Their chemistry was EVERYTHING!
Second-chance romances are one of my favourite reads, and this one was everything I hoped for. Packed with secrets, misunderstandings, and high-stakes drama, it took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. The way Mila Kane explores the razor-thin line between love and hate made this story unforgettable. Seeing Elio and Georgia fall for each other all over again despite everything was pure magic. It was also great to see returning characters from 'Unholy Vows' & 'king of the Cage'.
Mila never disappoints. Her dark romances always deliver the perfect mix of angst, passion, and spice, and Brutal Legacy was no exception. I already know Massimo’s story is going to be just as intense, the blurb alone has me in a chokehold. I cannot wait for more! I would 100% recommend this book to anyone who loves Mila's other mafia books but also if you love books with a great plots and spice.
Thank you Mila & 'Grey Promotions' for the ARC ❤
Tropes
Mafia
Second Chance
Enemies to lovers
Touch Her & Die
'My Wife'
Ex-military Hero
push & pull
Spice 🌶🌶
“You’re mine, in this life, and the next… I will never let you go.”
Mila Kane has done it again! Brutal Legacy is a five-star masterpiece that had me hooked from the very first page. No one writes Mafia romance like Mila, her stories are gripping, emotional, and utterly impossible to put down. This book was no exception. I devoured it in one sitting and was left desperate for more.
This story is a storm of heartbreak, betrayal, and a beautifully painful journey toward healing. Told through a dual timeline of ‘then’ and ‘now,’ it slowly unravels the devastating events that shattered Elio and Georgia’s love fourteen years ago. Their past was filled with tenderness and love, but in one cruel moment, everything was destroyed, leaving behind only bitterness and wreckage.
Elio is no longer the boy who once loved Georgia with playful sweetness. That warmth is gone, replaced by a ruthless, hardened man, one hollowed out by betrayal. Georgia, too, has never truly moved on. She’s haunted by the loss of the only love she ever knew, surviving rather than living. Both of them believe the other was responsible for their destruction, but neither knows the brutal truth that tore them apart. When fate forces them back together, the tension is unbearable. Every interaction is laced with pain, longing, and unresolved emotions. The push and pull between them is agonizing, blurring the line between love and hate in a way that only Mila Kane can execute so perfectly. Watching them uncover buried secrets, untangle the lies, and fight their way back to each other was breathtaking. Their chemistry was EVERYTHING!
Second-chance romances are one of my favourite reads, and this one was everything I hoped for. Packed with secrets, misunderstandings, and high-stakes drama, it took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. The way Mila Kane explores the razor-thin line between love and hate made this story unforgettable. Seeing Elio and Georgia fall for each other all over again despite everything was pure magic. It was also great to see returning characters from 'Unholy Vows' & 'king of the Cage'.
Mila never disappoints. Her dark romances always deliver the perfect mix of angst, passion, and spice, and Brutal Legacy was no exception. I already know Massimo’s story is going to be just as intense, the blurb alone has me in a chokehold. I cannot wait for more! I would 100% recommend this book to anyone who loves Mila's other mafia books but also if you love books with a great plots and spice.
Thank you Mila & 'Grey Promotions' for the ARC ❤
Tropes
Mafia
Second Chance
Enemies to lovers
Touch Her & Die
'My Wife'
Ex-military Hero
push & pull
April 10, 2025
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
This is a dark mafia romance and it is all consuming from the get go.. Second chance with so much emotions attached to it..
Georgia and Elio were meant to be.
Elio was at a low time in his life and events lead him to be working as a stable hand to save himself from jail. The man that took him in gave him the second chance and his only rule is to stay away from his daughter.
Georgia has big dreams of being a designer and leave from under her father's thumb. And Elio might be the one.
There chemistry and love was undeniable and they couldn't stay away. Then things happen and their world is shattered. We get these scenes throughout the story as back flash, to give us an idea of why they were separated 14 yrs ago. Really makes me sad when couples stay away for that long and to think they could have had it all earlier.
Now Georgia is a widow, broke, her dreams shattered and her life is in danger thanks to her criminal father and 2 Mafia families want her. 1 will torture her and the other will marry her into the family.
Elio is no the sottocapo of a brutal Mafia and he is now merciless,heartless,remorseless and will unalive without an ounce of guilt. Long gone the sweet boy who wanted to be a poet. It's his Job to go and get her, so she can be married off to someone else as he won't be touching ever again. They are both heartbroken blaming the other but deep down neither stopped loving each other.
It was a slow burn and I jut wanted them to find out what happened so they can be together again. What I loved the most was that neither of them have moved with someone else.
But he is allowing someone else to marry her!!!
Will he stop it in time? Can they be together again? When he nearly lost her, honestly my heart was beating as fast as his,because I knew at that moment things were going to change again.
So many twists suspense, action, unaliving, so emotional and spicy
Now Mr Shadow (Massimo) has got me intrigued and I really hope we get his story.
“Because loving you isn’t something a man can recover from — or forget. It’s a lifelong condition.”
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
This is a dark mafia romance and it is all consuming from the get go.. Second chance with so much emotions attached to it..
Georgia and Elio were meant to be.
Elio was at a low time in his life and events lead him to be working as a stable hand to save himself from jail. The man that took him in gave him the second chance and his only rule is to stay away from his daughter.
Georgia has big dreams of being a designer and leave from under her father's thumb. And Elio might be the one.
There chemistry and love was undeniable and they couldn't stay away. Then things happen and their world is shattered. We get these scenes throughout the story as back flash, to give us an idea of why they were separated 14 yrs ago. Really makes me sad when couples stay away for that long and to think they could have had it all earlier.
Now Georgia is a widow, broke, her dreams shattered and her life is in danger thanks to her criminal father and 2 Mafia families want her. 1 will torture her and the other will marry her into the family.
Elio is no the sottocapo of a brutal Mafia and he is now merciless,heartless,remorseless and will unalive without an ounce of guilt. Long gone the sweet boy who wanted to be a poet. It's his Job to go and get her, so she can be married off to someone else as he won't be touching ever again. They are both heartbroken blaming the other but deep down neither stopped loving each other.
It was a slow burn and I jut wanted them to find out what happened so they can be together again. What I loved the most was that neither of them have moved with someone else.
But he is allowing someone else to marry her!!!
Will he stop it in time? Can they be together again? When he nearly lost her, honestly my heart was beating as fast as his,because I knew at that moment things were going to change again.
So many twists suspense, action, unaliving, so emotional and spicy
Now Mr Shadow (Massimo) has got me intrigued and I really hope we get his story.
“Because loving you isn’t something a man can recover from — or forget. It’s a lifelong condition.”
March 31, 2025
Brutal Legacy is a dark second-chance romance of a couple who fell in love when they were young, but were torn apart by lies from someone they trusted leaving their hearts not just broken, but shattered.
When Elio and Georgia's paths are forced to cross 14 years later, neither thought they would ever see each other again. Still, when both of their families have a target on their backs, Elio is ordered to face and fetch the woman who tore his heart out and turned him into the cold-hearted killer he is today. No matter how hard Elio tries to convince himself that he is over Georgia and will never feel love again and before the truth comes out of the past betrayals, they cannot deny the love and attraction they never lost. They just need to survive the current battle with an opposing mafia family that could end their lives before they have the chance to live the life they always dreamed of before they were forced apart over a decade ago.
You can expect the following
• Italian Mafia
• Born/Raised in Italy
• Hometown Sweethearts
• Family Betrayal
• Broken Hearts
• Marriage to Escape
• Lies and Truths
• Hidden Identity
• First and Only Love
• Second Chance
• Enemies to Lovers
• Arranged Marriage
• PTSD
• Ex-Miltary
• Protective Hero
• Spice
• Look at her and die
“Beneath the frozen river, currents still run”
This dark mafia romance has what you expect. A lot of blood, violence, graphic death, and descriptive hot open-door spice. The love interests have had their hearts broken and lived on both sides of the tracks. Rags to riches, riches to rags. There is tension, danger, and suspense. The MMC is threatening but under his scary tactics, he does it all for the only girl he ever loved. The FMC is fiery and doesn't back down until she has no choice. I couldn't put this book down.
I was given an ARC of this book by Valentine PR and Literary Management/Greys Promotions in exchange for an honest review. This book is available on KU as of 4/2/2025
When Elio and Georgia's paths are forced to cross 14 years later, neither thought they would ever see each other again. Still, when both of their families have a target on their backs, Elio is ordered to face and fetch the woman who tore his heart out and turned him into the cold-hearted killer he is today. No matter how hard Elio tries to convince himself that he is over Georgia and will never feel love again and before the truth comes out of the past betrayals, they cannot deny the love and attraction they never lost. They just need to survive the current battle with an opposing mafia family that could end their lives before they have the chance to live the life they always dreamed of before they were forced apart over a decade ago.
You can expect the following
• Italian Mafia
• Born/Raised in Italy
• Hometown Sweethearts
• Family Betrayal
• Broken Hearts
• Marriage to Escape
• Lies and Truths
• Hidden Identity
• First and Only Love
• Second Chance
• Enemies to Lovers
• Arranged Marriage
• PTSD
• Ex-Miltary
• Protective Hero
• Spice
• Look at her and die
“Beneath the frozen river, currents still run”
This dark mafia romance has what you expect. A lot of blood, violence, graphic death, and descriptive hot open-door spice. The love interests have had their hearts broken and lived on both sides of the tracks. Rags to riches, riches to rags. There is tension, danger, and suspense. The MMC is threatening but under his scary tactics, he does it all for the only girl he ever loved. The FMC is fiery and doesn't back down until she has no choice. I couldn't put this book down.
I was given an ARC of this book by Valentine PR and Literary Management/Greys Promotions in exchange for an honest review. This book is available on KU as of 4/2/2025
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2025
✨E-ARC Review✨
I will always devour a Mila Kane book period👏🏼 I was looking forward to Elio’s book every since I read Renato & Charlie’s book. Elio was such a broody character and I was always curious about his story and now we finally have it.
Our FMC, Georgia, and Elio have quite a bit of history. These two met back in Italy after Georgias father took Elio in. Her father had one strict instruction in which his daughter remained completely off limits, but Elio couldn’t deny the connection he had with Georgia and their relationship blossomed.
But of course not everything went to plan and the pair were separated for fourteen years until fate had other plans and put Elio and Georgia back into one another’s paths, when Elio is sent to protect Georgia so her father won’t condemn the DeSanctis family, and to say the distaste these two had for one another would be an understatement. Both of these characters hearts were broken beyond repair due to a misunderstanding between them and they were the only ones who could make one another whole again. While these two spent many years apart they were completely loyal to the memory of each other in which there was no other man or woman for either.
Of course while Elio may claim to hate Georgia he is fiercely protective in which when she is due to marry another man he does in fact claim her, now he does say that he unalived her intended due to him betraying the family but we all knew that was a lie. The tension between these two built so much because as we all know there is a thin line between love and hate and of course it will reach its breaking point👀
I loved this book, the constant back and forth between the characters, the evidence that no matter how much time has passed that they both still cared for one another even if they were reluctant to show it, the possession.
Thank you so much to the author and greys promotions who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
I will always devour a Mila Kane book period👏🏼 I was looking forward to Elio’s book every since I read Renato & Charlie’s book. Elio was such a broody character and I was always curious about his story and now we finally have it.
Our FMC, Georgia, and Elio have quite a bit of history. These two met back in Italy after Georgias father took Elio in. Her father had one strict instruction in which his daughter remained completely off limits, but Elio couldn’t deny the connection he had with Georgia and their relationship blossomed.
But of course not everything went to plan and the pair were separated for fourteen years until fate had other plans and put Elio and Georgia back into one another’s paths, when Elio is sent to protect Georgia so her father won’t condemn the DeSanctis family, and to say the distaste these two had for one another would be an understatement. Both of these characters hearts were broken beyond repair due to a misunderstanding between them and they were the only ones who could make one another whole again. While these two spent many years apart they were completely loyal to the memory of each other in which there was no other man or woman for either.
Of course while Elio may claim to hate Georgia he is fiercely protective in which when she is due to marry another man he does in fact claim her, now he does say that he unalived her intended due to him betraying the family but we all knew that was a lie. The tension between these two built so much because as we all know there is a thin line between love and hate and of course it will reach its breaking point👀
I loved this book, the constant back and forth between the characters, the evidence that no matter how much time has passed that they both still cared for one another even if they were reluctant to show it, the possession.
Thank you so much to the author and greys promotions who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
March 29, 2025
🌟Mafia Dark Romance
🌟Lovers/Enemies/Lovers
🌟Forced Marriage
🌟Second Chance
🌟Angst
🌟Suspense
🌟Betrayal
🌟Forced Proximity
🌟Dual POV
🌟🌶️🌶️🌶️
Told through a compelling dual timeline of ‘then’ and ‘now,’ Brutal Legacy delivers an emotional storm of heartbreak, betrayal, and an achingly beautiful journey toward healing. From the very first page, this story had me in its grip, refusing to let go.
The slow unraveling of what happened fourteen years ago—the event that shattered Elio and Georgia’s once-loving bond—was both mesmerizing and gut-wrenching. Their past was filled with tenderness, an undeniable connection that should have stood the test of time. But one devastating day turned it all to ash, leaving only wreckage in its wake.
Now, Elio is a man hollowed out by betrayal, his warmth stripped away and replaced by brutal ruthlessness. The boy who once loved Georgia with playful sweetness is gone, buried beneath years of anger and pain. Georgia, too, has never recovered. She isn’t living—she’s merely surviving, haunted by the loss of the only love she ever truly knew. Both of them believe the other destroyed them. If only they knew the cruel truth that tore them apart.
When fate forces them to face each other again, emotions run high. The push and pull between them is agonizing, their wounds still raw even after all these years. Watching them untangle the past, uncover long-buried truths, and fight through the pain was frustrating at times but ultimately breathtaking. Their love never died—it endured, waiting for them to find their way back.
With powerful angst, undeniable chemistry, and a deeply satisfying resolution, Brutal Legacy is an unforgettable journey of love, loss, and redemption. A fantastic read.
Special thanks to Grey’s Promo and the author for the gifted copy 🖤
🌟Lovers/Enemies/Lovers
🌟Forced Marriage
🌟Second Chance
🌟Angst
🌟Suspense
🌟Betrayal
🌟Forced Proximity
🌟Dual POV
🌟🌶️🌶️🌶️
Told through a compelling dual timeline of ‘then’ and ‘now,’ Brutal Legacy delivers an emotional storm of heartbreak, betrayal, and an achingly beautiful journey toward healing. From the very first page, this story had me in its grip, refusing to let go.
The slow unraveling of what happened fourteen years ago—the event that shattered Elio and Georgia’s once-loving bond—was both mesmerizing and gut-wrenching. Their past was filled with tenderness, an undeniable connection that should have stood the test of time. But one devastating day turned it all to ash, leaving only wreckage in its wake.
Now, Elio is a man hollowed out by betrayal, his warmth stripped away and replaced by brutal ruthlessness. The boy who once loved Georgia with playful sweetness is gone, buried beneath years of anger and pain. Georgia, too, has never recovered. She isn’t living—she’s merely surviving, haunted by the loss of the only love she ever truly knew. Both of them believe the other destroyed them. If only they knew the cruel truth that tore them apart.
When fate forces them to face each other again, emotions run high. The push and pull between them is agonizing, their wounds still raw even after all these years. Watching them untangle the past, uncover long-buried truths, and fight through the pain was frustrating at times but ultimately breathtaking. Their love never died—it endured, waiting for them to find their way back.
With powerful angst, undeniable chemistry, and a deeply satisfying resolution, Brutal Legacy is an unforgettable journey of love, loss, and redemption. A fantastic read.
Special thanks to Grey’s Promo and the author for the gifted copy 🖤
April 6, 2025
....when the book matches the cover!!!
When The BOOK Matches the COVER???
and let me tell you
THIS BOOK MATCHES THE COVER TO A T
The cover model is fine, and Elio...he is just fine
This man inadvertently ''saves'' (below the belt) himself for a girl he has forced taught himself to hate. The only girl he ever loved, the only one he had ever been with fourteen years ago thinking they would have a long-lasting life together. But external circumstances (cough cough) pushed them apart and he was thrown into a hell that spit out a cold-hearted mercenary. And now his capo wants him to bring that girl so she can marry another and be amalgamated into the family.
I truly enjoyed reading Georgia. How she was forced from her carefree sunny life in an Italian village, thinking she found the lover of her life, to abandonment trauma that followed her to America. She develops serious anxiety issues, and when she is just about learns to cope with her life, she is thrown into a past she didn't even know she was a part of. I loved her tenacity when faced with adversity to keep going and not give up.
The flow of the story was generous, and when these two came together - be it a full-blown argument or the hot and heavy - they just lit up the page with fireworks. I am truly glad I found this author. Her writing style is smooth to read and the emotions and angsts make you keep coming back for more. This book would have been a full 5-stars read except I felt I wasn't pushed off the emotional ledge to make those moments truly gut-wrenching. I hope they develop their style as they keep on writing and I am looking forward to reading more of this author.
April 5, 2025
Brutal Legacy by Mila Kane is a gripping dark romance that is a perfect blend of angst, tension, danger, and steam.
The story follows the tumultuous relationship between Georgia Bellisario and Elio, who was once a loving man but has since been transformed into a ruthless mafia enforcer.
Fourteen years ago, Georgia broke his heart, leaving him for dead. Now, as the sottocapo of a brutal mafia, he is ordered to hunt her down and bring her back.
This story does have a dual timeline, which I loved! The contrast between who Elio was and who he became, was striking. You come to understand what happened all of those years ago and where it went wrong and despite everything that happened, and Elio's hardened exterior, Georgia still remains his obsession and his one weakness.
Mila has a fantastic and addictive writing style, I have quickly become a fan over the years. She masterfully weaves a tale of second chances and enemies-to-lovers with a redemption arc thrown in.
The characters are well-developed and I enjoyed Elios dark and possessive nature. This is in stark contrast to Georgia's soft and caring one. This also adds depth to the characters, making this a book you can't put down.
The tension and hurt between these two was palpable and watching them navigate their future was so good! There was plenty of suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat and twists to keep you guessing.
This was an intense and emotionally charged read that fans of Mafia romances will enjoy! Brutal Legacy is a testament to Mila's storytelling and I am looking forward to more of her work!
The story follows the tumultuous relationship between Georgia Bellisario and Elio, who was once a loving man but has since been transformed into a ruthless mafia enforcer.
Fourteen years ago, Georgia broke his heart, leaving him for dead. Now, as the sottocapo of a brutal mafia, he is ordered to hunt her down and bring her back.
This story does have a dual timeline, which I loved! The contrast between who Elio was and who he became, was striking. You come to understand what happened all of those years ago and where it went wrong and despite everything that happened, and Elio's hardened exterior, Georgia still remains his obsession and his one weakness.
Mila has a fantastic and addictive writing style, I have quickly become a fan over the years. She masterfully weaves a tale of second chances and enemies-to-lovers with a redemption arc thrown in.
The characters are well-developed and I enjoyed Elios dark and possessive nature. This is in stark contrast to Georgia's soft and caring one. This also adds depth to the characters, making this a book you can't put down.
The tension and hurt between these two was palpable and watching them navigate their future was so good! There was plenty of suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat and twists to keep you guessing.
This was an intense and emotionally charged read that fans of Mafia romances will enjoy! Brutal Legacy is a testament to Mila's storytelling and I am looking forward to more of her work!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews