Black Skies Riviera: An Arranged Marriage Mafia Romance (Cristo Sinners World)
C**A
Speechless!
Wow... just wow.I don't think words can do this book justice. Black Skies Riviera ended up becoming one of my all-time favorite books!First and foremost a huge bravo to Catherine Wiltcher for weaving such an exceptional story with a bewitching and page-turning writing style! Her lyrical prose is spellbinding, and I could feel her intelligence bleeding through the pages.Black Skies Riviera is a tale of crime, secrets and lust, that urges you to keep reading until you've basically inhaled this action bound story.Aiden Knight is an antihero for the ages. His unapologetic nature will intrigue you throughout his whole journey of revenge and ambition.While this deliciously sexy character always stays true to who he is, we also get to see a lot of growth as he gradually finds himself down a path of forgiveness and love. And I strongly highlight that Aiden Knight is one of the most sexy and alluring characters I've ever had the pleasure of reading about.I am in awe of Issa's strength and determination to be there, and go above and beyond for the people she loves. She is not without her flaws (which I like because perfect characters are boring), but you can't help but admire and fall in love with her altruistic nature. I especially loved that while she was thrown in such a shackling situation, she managed to keep her independence throughout the whole book with such grace and character.The chemistry between Aiden and Issa was raw and off the charts hot. There was no shortage of lies, twists, and betrayals in this book, and just when I thought I'd figured something out, Cathrine Wiltcher completely blindsided me with her creativity. There was nothing predictable or cliche about Black Skies Riviera.If I could sent out a mass text and recommend this book to everyone out there in the world I would! Even if mafia romance is not your thing, you have to read this book to simply experience the joy of reading this author's poetic, artistic, and intelligent prose.I loved Black Skies Riviera so so so much!!
C**A
So much more than typical arranged marriage mafia romance
Black Skies Riviera is labeled as an arranged marriage mafia romance. There are tons of stories with this plot. In fact, in the books that take place in the underworld, this type of plot is common and expected. Which criminal lord doesn't want to strengthen his kingdom by forming alliances with key players?Except, Black Skies Riviere is so much more. The story is wrapped in mystery and shocking revelations. It is fast-paced, as it develops in the span of a week. But I didn't mind at all, as it flowed perfectly and I found myself invested in the plot and the characters.Aiden "Raven" Knight rules the Côte d'Azur, where he owns a casino in Monte Carlo and numerous establishments. Through his legit business, he cleans dirty money for various criminal groups, from the Italians to the Russians. There is one thing he desires more than money and blood, and it's to avenge his parents' death. They were murdered 14 years ago and, back then, he had made a deal with the head of the Italian mafia. He agreed to work for Zaccaria in exchange for the names of their assassins.The Raven is cocky and has no filter. He likes his empire, drinking, and living on his huge yacht. After working for Zaccaria, he bows to no one. So when he is forced by Zaccaria to marry Ielena "Issa" Dubova in order to finally have the names he has been waiting for for 14 years, he is angry. His thirst for revenge is so powerful that he goes ahead with the marriage.Issa might be a Bratva princess but she is no one willing to be the perfect trophy wife. She is feisty, defiant, and full of sass. She might be 22 but she is not afraid to speak her mind and let Aiden know what she thinks. Pot meet kettle because these are combustible. Their constant banter is hilarious. Aiden's remarks deserve an award, because he never loses his black humor, not even when odds are against him.Even in the toughest situations, Aiden's words made me laugh. And while the story touches on hards topics, I liked the lightness that the characters brought to it. Plus, the audiobook version is also good. Great job by narrators Elizabeth Russell and Gregory Salinas.
L**E
Brilliant!
I have no words to describe what I just read. I think I may need time to reflect and marinate because nothing that comes to mind at this moment will do this book and Catherine Wiltcher justice. But here goes nothing. I’ve read over 250 books this year, with more than half being contemporary romance and this is by far the best of them all. I was recommended this book after trying the fill the void left behind by The Maddest Obsession. I suspected it would be decent because it’s recommender declared that it was better than Danielle Lori’s book. I didn’t believe her but listen, she told the truth. This book is phenomenal. The writing alone….Wiltcher is a true writer. Not an author, who writes as a past time. I studied literature and writing in college so I have no problem recognizing literally techniques. And this book….this book has it all. The prose is gorgeous. The metaphors. The imagery. The writing simply dazzles. I’ve not been swept away in a very long time. But this book was so immersive, I thought I was on the riviera. I thought I was on the Cristo. Oh and Aidan and Issa! Such characters with depth, wit, and emotional intelligence. Their banter and inner monologues were cerebral. I think they are perhaps the most mature and intelligent characters I’ve ever encountered. It was so refreshing to see these two. They truly came off the page. The story came off the page. I’ve never read a book like this before. A book that left a lingering visceral reaction, page after page. I truly don’t have enough words to describe how satisfying this was. You’ll just have to read it yourself. For now, I’m going to pick up the pieces and savor Wiltcher’s remaining catalogue because I’m afraid there are no other writers like her. Do yourself a favor and read Black Skies Riviera. You won’t regret it.
A**R
Another best!!!
This book is amazing. Aiden Knight and Issa Dubov were strangers but were forced to marry as a means to an end for some big Mafia organization. This story has lots of twists and so many deceitful characters that you can't stop reading just to know what happened next. The book is highly recommended well written and the plot is amazing!!!.
L**E
Amazing
Oh my god!!This book is divine!!I love it! Truly!This is my first book from the author and her mind is absolutely amazing, to create a story like that!The way these characters were developed blew my mind!!Got chills all over the place here!!!I’m already jumping in the Santiago’s trilogy!!❤️❤️❤️
M**E
Thrilling
Catherine Witcher is a new author to me, and she definitely piqued and held my attention with Black Skies Riviera.Her excellent writing style made the difference, and coupled with an utterly thrilling storyline, I couldn't put this story down. Sexy, intense, dangerous, a badass heroine and a panty melting hero, this book had everything I was looking for, and then more.I also applause the author's knowledge (of her researches) of Cannes and Monaco, where the story takes place. The atmosphere was exceptional, and I love picturing her characters and their crazy journey.If you're in the mood for a great mafia, enemies-to-lovers, arranged marriage read, I highly recommend this one. Happy reading!
S**T
AMAZING
For someone who just is a die heart love story fan this is a must read! A quick read which keeps u intrigued to finish in one go!
K**R
A Wondrous Wordsmith -
This SO talented author weaves her words in such a jaw dropping and colourful way, her fluid writing conjuring a truly vivid and real world. The scenes and characters are so graphically described (but effortlessly so - no long winded diatribe in sight) that it’s almost virtual reality - your there with them. An extremely rare talent.Black Skies Riviera brings to life the glamour of Monaco & Southern France and introduces us to Aiden Knight - heartless, at times cruel, empty, hell bent on revenge thrust into marriage with an equally unwilling Bratva Princess. Gripping from page 1 these characters carry secrets from each other in a plot with twists & turns, betrayal, plenty of Mafia/Bratva action, a secret society (it’s got it all going on) and off the charts chemistry on the steamy scale as they barrel toward their HEA. Angst, heartbreak, danger - you feel all of these emotions right along with the characters.....And as if that’s not enough - Dante Santiago makes a cameo appearance stepping out of his Ferrari with all his Alpha male divine/devilish godliness. If you haven’t read Santiago Trilogy yet - it’s a 5* read!!So you’ve probably guessed - I highly recommend this latest novel from Catherine, hooked from the first page. A one-click author who is extraordinary at what she does & one of the best Mafia, Enemies/Lovers authors out there.....
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