Reviews with content warning for Violence - Heavy Crown

This was, quite honestly, a disappointing finish to this series. Unfortunately. Maybe it’s because I was looking forward to Sebs story so much, or maybe it’s because there’s that bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye to this world and these characters I’ve grown to love (or we’ll, at least partially, I’ll still be reading the spin off series obvs) but I don’t think so.

I just thought the story was all over the place. I’m not a fan of insta love, which meant that the pacing of Sebs and Yelenas romance wasn’t great for me. And they were both being so damn naive and stupid about it all??? Like these are people in their mid to late twenties who grew up in the mafia world all their lives - they sure as hell don’t act like it. In parts I felt like they were acting as immaturely as Dante and Simone had been doing in the first part of their book, difference being those two had <I>actually</I> been young and didn’t know any better.

Also I’ve said countless times before I don’t like miscommunication trope and that stays true until the end of time

I also didn’t like all the family conflict, especially with Dante. It made me sad.

But hey, I guess at least I got more Miko/Nessa content :/

And that twist? Well, I didn’t see that coming, not in that capacity. I was reading all of that with a gaping mouth and hoping it was all just a nightmare squeeze. And then I cried. And after that, I felt like the plot just picked up even more and there was just too much happening with not enough detail to any of it. I guess that’s why this entire series ranged between 3 and 4 stars for me, despite really loving a lot of the characters, because I just can’t connect as well to this rapid pace. That’s just a preference tho - I know there’s at least as many people out there who feel the same way about slow burn (which I adore).

All that to say, it wasn’t what I expected, I guess, and it’s probably the weakest book in my mind. I know I also rated the first book only 3 stars, and I wouldn’t take it back bc that’s how I felt about the book, but throughout the series Aida and Cal have definitely become my favorites, I have such a soft spot for them, probs bc they were the most consistent cameos thorough all five books.

And I <I>am</I> excited for the Kingsmaker series, don’t get me wrong, I still do enjoy Larks writing a lot - in that “this is a fast read that doesn’t require too much out of me emotionally but is entertaining and smutty” way. Nothing wrong with that.

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dark emotional tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Loveable characters? Yes

4.0

I have been looking forward to Seb's book since the incident on the dock in Brutal Prince. I knew I was going to love Seb even more after reading his story and I'm happy to say I was not disappointed. Seb is a naturally sweet & caring character but he will step tf up to protect you when it's needed. He is the biggest cinnamon roll in the streets, and dom in the sheets!! (Excuse me Seb, is that YOU??!)

His love interest Yelena, however, was very vanilla for me. Although I didn't much care for her, Yelena and Sebastian made a sweet couple.

IF YA'LL THOUGHT CAL & AIDA'S WEDDING WAS WILD, JUSTTT YOU WAIT! This book packs a punch with twists & all the action! Miss Sophie sure knows how to keep you invested in the story and these characters.

I especially loved seeing the Gallo siblings work together and fight for their family. I especially love Aida. My love for her knows no bounds!

I am sad that the Brutal Prince series has come to an end, but up next is The Kingmakers && I am SOO ready for it!!!

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