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Queen of the Night
Frankie Baxter knows what it means to lose everything. Because once upon a time, she did. And being the oldest daughter of a mafia Don means going nowhere unguarded. Too bad she’s run off anyone who might stand a chance at keeping her safe.
Now, even a quiet night out with her girlfriends requires she spend some quality time under the watchful eye of the last remaining bodyguard willing to risk his neck to babysit, her ex-best friend, Charlie Morrow. The only man on Earth who seems to delight in pushing every single one of her buttons.
Not that any of that matters, though, when one of the Five Families, a rival organization hellbent on a hostile takeover of her father’s territory, comes for her, forcing her and Charlie to head to the one place nobody is brave enough to attack: her grandmother’s house.
Five days. One impromptu road trip. A mountain of secrets. And sexual tension so blistering it threatens to scar whoever makes the first move.
Of course, unlocking the vault of whispered conversations and previously classified family lore isn’t all it’s cracked up to be for Frankie. Especially when her best friend, turned enemy, turned lover, is a werewolf who’s been keeping her at arm’s length for her own safety.
Turns out a night with the big bad wolf never looked so good.
Now, even a quiet night out with her girlfriends requires she spend some quality time under the watchful eye of the last remaining bodyguard willing to risk his neck to babysit, her ex-best friend, Charlie Morrow. The only man on Earth who seems to delight in pushing every single one of her buttons.
Not that any of that matters, though, when one of the Five Families, a rival organization hellbent on a hostile takeover of her father’s territory, comes for her, forcing her and Charlie to head to the one place nobody is brave enough to attack: her grandmother’s house.
Five days. One impromptu road trip. A mountain of secrets. And sexual tension so blistering it threatens to scar whoever makes the first move.
Of course, unlocking the vault of whispered conversations and previously classified family lore isn’t all it’s cracked up to be for Frankie. Especially when her best friend, turned enemy, turned lover, is a werewolf who’s been keeping her at arm’s length for her own safety.
Turns out a night with the big bad wolf never looked so good.
130 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 22, 2022
About the author
Elizabeth Muse
6 books54 followersElizabeth is a (mostly!) dark romance author, a trope aficionado, a Mary Sue stan, a beanie baby hoarder, a single mom, pure chaotic evil, and a pitch wars alum who looks like a cinnamon roll but could kill you.
She specializes in spicy disasters, enemies to lovers, tragic backstories, grumpy villains falling for sunshine heroes too good for this world, bad boys and girls reformed by the power of love, arranged marriages, fake relationships, and second chances.
In her ridiculously limited free time, Elizabeth enjoys playing board games, experimenting in the kitchen, and trying desperately to cuddle her two demon kitties.
She specializes in spicy disasters, enemies to lovers, tragic backstories, grumpy villains falling for sunshine heroes too good for this world, bad boys and girls reformed by the power of love, arranged marriages, fake relationships, and second chances.
In her ridiculously limited free time, Elizabeth enjoys playing board games, experimenting in the kitchen, and trying desperately to cuddle her two demon kitties.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
June 14, 2023
4 stars for the whole book but that end...? Very... Interesting to say the least. Elizabeth Muse really pulled a 180 on us with that plot twist. That's all I'll say
July 9, 2023
I must admit, although I found myself frustrated with this story, I couldn’t stop reading. This author sure can write and grab my attention. The heroine, Francis, was a petulant brat for most of this book, but by the end I came to finally like her. As for Charlie, he was a seemingly unkillable werewolf enforcer for the mob, who was also a Beta and a consigliere. See that right there? That confusion… that was me! I didn’t really understand the motives for most of this story except for how Francis’s brother died, and that scene was A LOT. Probably the best scene out of the book because it was all there. I didn’t have to question anything because it was all laid out for me. As for the rest of the book, I’m still unclear how Francis’s dad is the Alpha, yet she’s human and she also rules them all. But clearly I enjoyed this story well enough.
May 15, 2024
I started reading "Queen Of The Night" when I got into bed, and I finished it before going to sleep. This 148-page story is something most of us can inhale faster than we can finish our iced coffees. With that being said, I was pleasantly surprised by the depth this short standalone held within its pages.
"Queen Of The Night" is a werewolf mafia romance, but primarily it explores the evolution of friends to enemies to friends to lovers (with a few werewolves thrown in). I truly loved it for what it is. This book is not an epic fantasy or a brain-puzzling mystery. It's a spice-friendly, adult paranormal romance that is short, to the point, and feels like a hug for your brain. While reading this story, I felt every single emotion. I don't know if it's because I connected with the female main character's grief or something else, but I genuinely thought it was the perfect feel-good book to read right before bed.
After seeing some of the other reviews, I feel like "Queen Of The Night" is being judged too harshly for what it isn't, rather than appreciated for what it is. This is a feel-good, warm and fuzzy standalone story that primarily focuses on the romantic buildup due to its limited number of pages. I believe the author did an exceptional job setting the scene, crafting the dialogue in the right places, and navigating the narrative effectively. I loved it, and the next time I need a break from hefty books that leave me feeling drained and hungover, I will likely revisit this one.
"Queen Of The Night" is a werewolf mafia romance, but primarily it explores the evolution of friends to enemies to friends to lovers (with a few werewolves thrown in). I truly loved it for what it is. This book is not an epic fantasy or a brain-puzzling mystery. It's a spice-friendly, adult paranormal romance that is short, to the point, and feels like a hug for your brain. While reading this story, I felt every single emotion. I don't know if it's because I connected with the female main character's grief or something else, but I genuinely thought it was the perfect feel-good book to read right before bed.
After seeing some of the other reviews, I feel like "Queen Of The Night" is being judged too harshly for what it isn't, rather than appreciated for what it is. This is a feel-good, warm and fuzzy standalone story that primarily focuses on the romantic buildup due to its limited number of pages. I believe the author did an exceptional job setting the scene, crafting the dialogue in the right places, and navigating the narrative effectively. I loved it, and the next time I need a break from hefty books that leave me feeling drained and hungover, I will likely revisit this one.
February 4, 2022
I saw a tidbit from this book in a video on TikTok and decided I had to pick it up. I AM SO GLAD I DID!!!
It’s so amazing! A unique twist on some really cool tropes. Mafia and werewolf romance with some delicious spice! A few awesome quotes! I’ll put them on my Goodreads. A man who’s pro s*x toys?!? Gimme more! A heroine who loves reading spice? Yes girl! Y’all - there’s even a touch of praise kink. :D
Also, the language in the book is incredible! It’s a first person book with the descriptive language of a third person book. The character and world building is outstanding and it’s a 2 1/2 hour novella! It’s so impressive.
Heads up - the author includes a TW page in this book. One with a link and a QR code to the author’s website. Head it. I’ve read some mafia romance…I’m not a fan of dark romance, but I’m not a stranger to secondary character violence…but chapter 12 was intense. The violence was graphic and intense. It wasn’t overly gratuitous or anything like that, but it was graphic. If you want to skip the triggers, but not the book, just don’t read the italicized part at the beginning of chapter 12. It’s all alluded to before and after so you’ll miss a little description, but you’ll still understand the book. If graphic violence is on your TW shopping list, this is the book for you!
Overall - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 chili peppers 🌶🌶🌶🌶
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Ms. Muse has a new reader for life!
It’s so amazing! A unique twist on some really cool tropes. Mafia and werewolf romance with some delicious spice! A few awesome quotes! I’ll put them on my Goodreads. A man who’s pro s*x toys?!? Gimme more! A heroine who loves reading spice? Yes girl! Y’all - there’s even a touch of praise kink. :D
Also, the language in the book is incredible! It’s a first person book with the descriptive language of a third person book. The character and world building is outstanding and it’s a 2 1/2 hour novella! It’s so impressive.
Heads up - the author includes a TW page in this book. One with a link and a QR code to the author’s website. Head it. I’ve read some mafia romance…I’m not a fan of dark romance, but I’m not a stranger to secondary character violence…but chapter 12 was intense. The violence was graphic and intense. It wasn’t overly gratuitous or anything like that, but it was graphic. If you want to skip the triggers, but not the book, just don’t read the italicized part at the beginning of chapter 12. It’s all alluded to before and after so you’ll miss a little description, but you’ll still understand the book. If graphic violence is on your TW shopping list, this is the book for you!
Overall - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 chili peppers 🌶🌶🌶🌶
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Ms. Muse has a new reader for life!
June 23, 2023
This was a quick, steamy, dark werewolf novel. There were many elements that I enjoyed but overall I had too many questions left unanswered to give this higher than 3 stars. I feel like there definitely needs to be another novel after this one. I really enjoyed the romance element between the two main characters. The novel alternated between their point of views and I enjoyed both of their perspectives.
Frankie knows nothing of the werewolf world and has just lost her brothers to violence. Charlie has been sworn to protect her but has secretly loved her. The two must go on a road trip to get her to safety. Along the way they must confront what they are feeling but also have to stay safe.
There were some interesting twists that I wish the author had explored a little more. Overall, this book definitely has potential and I would be interested to read
Frankie knows nothing of the werewolf world and has just lost her brothers to violence. Charlie has been sworn to protect her but has secretly loved her. The two must go on a road trip to get her to safety. Along the way they must confront what they are feeling but also have to stay safe.
There were some interesting twists that I wish the author had explored a little more. Overall, this book definitely has potential and I would be interested to read
June 24, 2023
I kinda went blind into this and I'm glad i did.
It's a spicy werewolf x mafia x dark romance, red riding hood retelling and i really enjoyed it!
That plot twist and the end really did it for me!!!
You definitely have to check TWs because there's a couple graphic violence scenes on it so you gotta be prepared!
Elizabeth did it again, she never disappoints!!!
Thank you so much Elizabeth for this ARC 🙏🏻
It's a spicy werewolf x mafia x dark romance, red riding hood retelling and i really enjoyed it!
That plot twist and the end really did it for me!!!
You definitely have to check TWs because there's a couple graphic violence scenes on it so you gotta be prepared!
Elizabeth did it again, she never disappoints!!!
Thank you so much Elizabeth for this ARC 🙏🏻
August 2, 2023
Queen of the Night by Author Elizabeth Muse.
This book is a spicy werewolf mafia romance with dual POVs of the FMC and MMC. It gives off a current spicy werewolf version of the Little Red Riding Hood Fairytale. Elizabeth Muse had me flipping pages and picking the book back up every chance I had to find out how Frankie and Charlie's lives would tangle or untangle. I was on the edge of my seat multiple times envisioning the story going on way, and surprised and some of the twists and turns throughout the book. Check the Trigger Warnings due to there being a few violent scenes that may trigger some readers.
I found Frankie's character to be a bit on the annoying and immature the first half of the book. It did get improve in the second half of the book. I enjoyed how much Charlie was the "typical" broody male who eventually evolved throughout the book. The plot twists were one of my favorite parts of this book.
There were a couple parts where I felt that the story lacked character building or jumped around a little bit. Once I went back a couple pages and reread to make sure I didn't miss anything. I personally wanted more of an ending. Although I enjoyed the ending, it did feel a bit rushed. The epilogue was nice but again I wanted more. All in All I gave this book a 3/5 stars and a 2/5 spice level. I really enjoyed this book and I do recommend reading it. For me it was quick read and a perfect palate cleanser.
I did received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is a spicy werewolf mafia romance with dual POVs of the FMC and MMC. It gives off a current spicy werewolf version of the Little Red Riding Hood Fairytale. Elizabeth Muse had me flipping pages and picking the book back up every chance I had to find out how Frankie and Charlie's lives would tangle or untangle. I was on the edge of my seat multiple times envisioning the story going on way, and surprised and some of the twists and turns throughout the book. Check the Trigger Warnings due to there being a few violent scenes that may trigger some readers.
I found Frankie's character to be a bit on the annoying and immature the first half of the book. It did get improve in the second half of the book. I enjoyed how much Charlie was the "typical" broody male who eventually evolved throughout the book. The plot twists were one of my favorite parts of this book.
There were a couple parts where I felt that the story lacked character building or jumped around a little bit. Once I went back a couple pages and reread to make sure I didn't miss anything. I personally wanted more of an ending. Although I enjoyed the ending, it did feel a bit rushed. The epilogue was nice but again I wanted more. All in All I gave this book a 3/5 stars and a 2/5 spice level. I really enjoyed this book and I do recommend reading it. For me it was quick read and a perfect palate cleanser.
I did received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 1, 2023
This is my first experience with a work by Elizabeth Muse. I enjoyed her writing style. I've read mafia stories, and shifter stories, but never read them combined. It was a very interesting read. I felt it kind of jumped around a bit, other than that I really liked it. I look forward to reading more of Elizabeth's works.
This is a voluntary review of an advance reader copy. These are my own thoughts and opinions about this book.
This is a voluntary review of an advance reader copy. These are my own thoughts and opinions about this book.
February 1, 2022
Uhm excuse me, this had no right being so dang good!!
First off, I absolutely devoured this in one sitting. There was no point at which I felt bored or thought that I wanted to put it down for a moment. I needed answers and more of the action, and I needed it now!
Even for a novella, there is so much world-building and getting to know the characters. As someone who really needs to connect with characters to enjoy a book, this checked every single box. There was so much plot even in such a small amount of time, and I loved seeing the world develop as Frankie stumbled her way through it.
And the *intimate scenes*......chef's kiss! As someone who is just now diving into the world of smut....I thoroughly enjoyed this smutty novella!
If you like werewolves, mafia stories, smut, or all 3, then you definitely need to check this amazing new series out!
First off, I absolutely devoured this in one sitting. There was no point at which I felt bored or thought that I wanted to put it down for a moment. I needed answers and more of the action, and I needed it now!
Even for a novella, there is so much world-building and getting to know the characters. As someone who really needs to connect with characters to enjoy a book, this checked every single box. There was so much plot even in such a small amount of time, and I loved seeing the world develop as Frankie stumbled her way through it.
And the *intimate scenes*......chef's kiss! As someone who is just now diving into the world of smut....I thoroughly enjoyed this smutty novella!
If you like werewolves, mafia stories, smut, or all 3, then you definitely need to check this amazing new series out!
June 6, 2023
“She was going to be queen. Of everything and everyone. I couldn’t be her king.”
I have never read anything quite like this, and I absolutely devoured it! Queen of the Night is a spicy Red Riding Hood mafia retelling with a werewolf, a road trip, and a bodyguard situation. I love when Elizabeth writes a car scene and this one was 🥵🔥
Frankie and Charlie have some fabulous enemies-to-lovers banter that had me seriously chuckling and landed in swoonworthy “it’s always been you” moments.
This author’s books are a must read for me and always a fun time!
You’ll find —
Fated Mates
“One Night Only”
Enemies to Lovers
Alpha MC
Forced Proximity
Thankful for the opportunity to read a review copy of the rerelease!
I have never read anything quite like this, and I absolutely devoured it! Queen of the Night is a spicy Red Riding Hood mafia retelling with a werewolf, a road trip, and a bodyguard situation. I love when Elizabeth writes a car scene and this one was 🥵🔥
Frankie and Charlie have some fabulous enemies-to-lovers banter that had me seriously chuckling and landed in swoonworthy “it’s always been you” moments.
This author’s books are a must read for me and always a fun time!
You’ll find —
Fated Mates
“One Night Only”
Enemies to Lovers
Alpha MC
Forced Proximity
Thankful for the opportunity to read a review copy of the rerelease!
June 20, 2023
This is my first book from Elizabeth Muse! I really like her writing style. Queen of the Night is a Red Riding Hood retelling. I absolutely loved the banter between Charlie and Frankie. The spice and tension was amazing. This novella was such a quick, easy and well written read!
Tropes
Only one bed ❤️
Alpha MC 🖤
Mafia ❤️
Werewolves 🖤
Retelling ❤️
Forced proximity 🖤
Fated mates ❤️
Enemies to lovers 🖤
Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this amazing novella!!!
Tropes
Only one bed ❤️
Alpha MC 🖤
Mafia ❤️
Werewolves 🖤
Retelling ❤️
Forced proximity 🖤
Fated mates ❤️
Enemies to lovers 🖤
Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this amazing novella!!!
July 21, 2024
It’s a fine read. The beginning you’re tossed into the deep end and the end quickly hits you.
August 10, 2024
Short read. Read whole thing on kindle on a flight. Sweet story. Spicy, but not too spicy. Got on stuff your kindle day
July 17, 2023
2.5 rounded to 3, trying to account for this only being <150 pages.
The plot was good but it had the potential to be so much more. It has all the elements going on, mafia romance, but with a truly loving father, werewolves, friends to enemies to lovers and forced proximity. But with so much going on, it would have benefited from more upfront world building to tie it all together. I would have loved to meet Nonna and also have seen more flashbacks of the Frankie and Charlie as teenagers.
TLDR, for the short format this was a good mafia werewolf romance.
I read an ARC.
The plot was good but it had the potential to be so much more. It has all the elements going on, mafia romance, but with a truly loving father, werewolves, friends to enemies to lovers and forced proximity. But with so much going on, it would have benefited from more upfront world building to tie it all together. I would have loved to meet Nonna and also have seen more flashbacks of the Frankie and Charlie as teenagers.
TLDR, for the short format this was a good mafia werewolf romance.
I read an ARC.
June 28, 2022
I've never read a book like this, have never wanted to read a book like this, and never even anticipated doing so. Still, I was pleasantly surprised with how attached I got to Charlie, Frankie, and their relationship. Though a quick ending with an overall fast plot due to novella length, I didn't see the end coming. And up until the last page, I was bummed thinking Frankie and Charlie wouldn't end up together, even when the hint as to how it worked was mentioned not one chapter prior. Wonderfully done.
August 30, 2023
A dark retelling/reimagination of Little Red Riding Hood with Mafia and werewolves
⭐ ⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶/5
This story could have been great. The ideas are there, but it failed to deliver. So many potholes and uncompleted storylines. It could have been so much longer. You're left wondering about so many things for a standalone story. It feels like the author had the sex scene and the ending scene in her head and couldn't find enough words to tell the rest of the story. Plus side, I loved that the MMC was the inexperienced V while being this alpha male character that was refreshing.
⭐ ⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶/5
This story could have been great. The ideas are there, but it failed to deliver. So many potholes and uncompleted storylines. It could have been so much longer. You're left wondering about so many things for a standalone story. It feels like the author had the sex scene and the ending scene in her head and couldn't find enough words to tell the rest of the story. Plus side, I loved that the MMC was the inexperienced V while being this alpha male character that was refreshing.
May 28, 2024
Dive headfirst into the thrilling, steamy world of Queen of the Night, where Elizabeth Muse masterfully blends the dangerous allure of mafia intrigue with the raw, supernatural twist of paranormal romance. This book is a powder keg of tension, secrets, and sizzling moments that will have you flipping the pages faster than a bullet flies.
🐺 Frankie Baxter: Mafia Princess with a Wild Heart 🐺
Frankie is not just any mafia princess. She's fiery, fiercely independent, and has a knack for trouble. After losing everything once, she’s determined not to let her guard down again—except when it comes to Charlie, her ex-best friend and the last bodyguard daring enough to handle her. Frankie's spirited nature and vulnerability make her a heroine you can't help but root for, especially as her world spirals into chaos.
🌑 Charlie Morrow: The Werewolf Bodyguard with a Secret 🌑
Charlie is the definition of a protective alpha with a twist—literally. As a werewolf, he’s got more than just mafia goons to worry about. His dual nature adds an irresistible layer of complexity to his character, especially as his past with Frankie comes back to haunt him in the most intense ways. His struggle between duty and desire, human and beast, makes every interaction with Frankie crackle with forbidden excitement.
🔥 From Spark to Inferno: A Love Rekindled Against All Odds 🔥
The chemistry between Frankie and Charlie is explosive, with every snarky exchange and heated glance pulling you deeper into their tumultuous relationship. From friends to frenemies to lovers, their journey is a wild ride of emotions, packed with moments that are as tender as they are tempestuous. The forced proximity on their road trip to grandma’s house? It turns up the heat to scorching levels, making every encounter between them a battle of wills and passion.
🚗 A Road Trip Packed with Peril and Passion 🚗
As Frankie and Charlie dodge bullets and betrayal, the stakes are as high as the tension between them. Each mile they cover not only brings them closer to safety but also deeper into a web of secrets that could change everything. The backdrop of their escape is filled with danger and the thrill of the unknown, setting the perfect stage for their fiery romance to unfold.
🌟 Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Thrill-Seekers and Romance Lovers Alike 🌟
Queen of the Night is more than just a paranormal romance or a mafia tale; it's a heart-pounding, steamy adventure that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. Elizabeth Muse has created a compact yet complete world filled with characters that are gritty, real, and incredibly engaging. The twists? They’ll shock you. The romance? It’ll captivate you. The ending? It’ll leave you desperate for more.
🐺 Frankie Baxter: Mafia Princess with a Wild Heart 🐺
Frankie is not just any mafia princess. She's fiery, fiercely independent, and has a knack for trouble. After losing everything once, she’s determined not to let her guard down again—except when it comes to Charlie, her ex-best friend and the last bodyguard daring enough to handle her. Frankie's spirited nature and vulnerability make her a heroine you can't help but root for, especially as her world spirals into chaos.
🌑 Charlie Morrow: The Werewolf Bodyguard with a Secret 🌑
Charlie is the definition of a protective alpha with a twist—literally. As a werewolf, he’s got more than just mafia goons to worry about. His dual nature adds an irresistible layer of complexity to his character, especially as his past with Frankie comes back to haunt him in the most intense ways. His struggle between duty and desire, human and beast, makes every interaction with Frankie crackle with forbidden excitement.
🔥 From Spark to Inferno: A Love Rekindled Against All Odds 🔥
The chemistry between Frankie and Charlie is explosive, with every snarky exchange and heated glance pulling you deeper into their tumultuous relationship. From friends to frenemies to lovers, their journey is a wild ride of emotions, packed with moments that are as tender as they are tempestuous. The forced proximity on their road trip to grandma’s house? It turns up the heat to scorching levels, making every encounter between them a battle of wills and passion.
🚗 A Road Trip Packed with Peril and Passion 🚗
As Frankie and Charlie dodge bullets and betrayal, the stakes are as high as the tension between them. Each mile they cover not only brings them closer to safety but also deeper into a web of secrets that could change everything. The backdrop of their escape is filled with danger and the thrill of the unknown, setting the perfect stage for their fiery romance to unfold.
🌟 Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Thrill-Seekers and Romance Lovers Alike 🌟
Queen of the Night is more than just a paranormal romance or a mafia tale; it's a heart-pounding, steamy adventure that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. Elizabeth Muse has created a compact yet complete world filled with characters that are gritty, real, and incredibly engaging. The twists? They’ll shock you. The romance? It’ll captivate you. The ending? It’ll leave you desperate for more.
July 10, 2023
This book hit me at the right time. I love a good shifter romance, and add in a mafia element…”chef’s kiss.” Elizabeth Muse weaves a tale as old as time in the mafia romance trope, yet she takes a unique divergence with a creative lore surrounding Alphas, Omegas, Betas, and how pack magic relates to mafia families.
I was all in and devoured this book in less than 24 hours. Multiple POV, fated mates, a strong FMC, and a virgin MMC – what!!! While the author does note a few TW, this is by far tame compared to other dark romances that are notched on my bedpost. But don’t pass this book up, even if really dark is what you’re looking for.
The FMC and MMC are besties from childhood, but they made it to at least second base while growing up together. Then tragedy strikes. Now they are adults and the MMC is tasked with protecting his queen. SPOILER: She doesn’t even know what she is or will become.
This is not a why choose – it is a MF only, and he’s definitely not into sharing.
One thing I didn’t like: this is a standalone, and while that normally wouldn’t be an issue, in this case it felt as if there were many loose ends that needed tidying up. Who are the other families? What are their connections to Frankie’s family? What does Frankie as Queen look like? I need one more smexy time moment between Frankie and Charlie at the end!!! And so many more (but listing might cause too much of a spoiler effect).
Please don’t let that dissuade you – move this baby up on your TBR.
Thank you Book Sirens for providing me with this book for an honest review.
I was all in and devoured this book in less than 24 hours. Multiple POV, fated mates, a strong FMC, and a virgin MMC – what!!! While the author does note a few TW, this is by far tame compared to other dark romances that are notched on my bedpost. But don’t pass this book up, even if really dark is what you’re looking for.
The FMC and MMC are besties from childhood, but they made it to at least second base while growing up together. Then tragedy strikes. Now they are adults and the MMC is tasked with protecting his queen. SPOILER: She doesn’t even know what she is or will become.
This is not a why choose – it is a MF only, and he’s definitely not into sharing.
One thing I didn’t like: this is a standalone, and while that normally wouldn’t be an issue, in this case it felt as if there were many loose ends that needed tidying up. Who are the other families? What are their connections to Frankie’s family? What does Frankie as Queen look like? I need one more smexy time moment between Frankie and Charlie at the end!!! And so many more (but listing might cause too much of a spoiler effect).
Please don’t let that dissuade you – move this baby up on your TBR.
Thank you Book Sirens for providing me with this book for an honest review.
July 4, 2023
MMC/FMC- Charlie and Frankie
POV- 3rd person (prologue and epilogue), 1st person dual. This was very weird and made the prologue and epilogue feel like they were completely separate from the story.
Genre- Mafia Romance
Genre- Paranormal Romance
Sub Genre- Shifters (werewolves)
Heat- they did the thing, he took a vacation, and they named the parts.
Standalone? Y
Cliffhanger? N
HEA/HFN? Y
Triggers- extreme graphic violence, explicit erotic content, language.
Tropes- Former BFFs, Childhood Sweethearts, Friends to Lovers/Enemies to Lovers, Fated Mates, V Card, That Might Be Bigger Than My TBR List, Love On The Run.
What I liked- I always like a good F2L romance and I enjoyed this one. The chemistry was also palpable. Good world building.
What I didn’t- this story would be better if it were to be expanded. I’m okay with the fact that we are dropped in the middle of the story, because the exposition eventually covers that. But the ending seemed very sudden and left a lot of questions. Also, I have an issue with the book calling the FMC “ruined”. Yes, the author was trying to avoid saying straight out that the FMC had been s. assaulted (or r.’d), presumably to lessen the potential trigger. But implying that a woman is ruined or lesser because she has been s. assaulted is very much Not Cool.
Verdict- I’d recommend it. It’s an innovative take on the PNR genre.
I received an advance review copy for free and this is my honest, voluntary review.
POV- 3rd person (prologue and epilogue), 1st person dual. This was very weird and made the prologue and epilogue feel like they were completely separate from the story.
Genre- Mafia Romance
Genre- Paranormal Romance
Sub Genre- Shifters (werewolves)
Heat- they did the thing, he took a vacation, and they named the parts.
Standalone? Y
Cliffhanger? N
HEA/HFN? Y
Triggers- extreme graphic violence, explicit erotic content, language.
Tropes- Former BFFs, Childhood Sweethearts, Friends to Lovers/Enemies to Lovers, Fated Mates, V Card, That Might Be Bigger Than My TBR List, Love On The Run.
What I liked- I always like a good F2L romance and I enjoyed this one. The chemistry was also palpable. Good world building.
What I didn’t- this story would be better if it were to be expanded. I’m okay with the fact that we are dropped in the middle of the story, because the exposition eventually covers that. But the ending seemed very sudden and left a lot of questions. Also, I have an issue with the book calling the FMC “ruined”. Yes, the author was trying to avoid saying straight out that the FMC had been s. assaulted (or r.’d), presumably to lessen the potential trigger. But implying that a woman is ruined or lesser because she has been s. assaulted is very much Not Cool.
Verdict- I’d recommend it. It’s an innovative take on the PNR genre.
I received an advance review copy for free and this is my honest, voluntary review.
July 31, 2022
Queen of the Night
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
POV: Dual 1st Person
M/F
Stand Alone? This where my issue lies because I am not sure. I feel like I missed info (possibly in another book) that had me confused and feeling like there were huge glaring holes in the story. So maybe?
I can’t really explain fully my reasoning for two stars short of a 5 ⭐️ review without spoilers and I really hate to give spoilers. This is a me thing, but I really did feel like I was missing some information that may have filled in some holes. I am not sure if this info is conveyed in another book that happens in this world or if the information is just missing but basically some things didn’t add up for me. This mixed with words I had to take time to look up (without knowing the language being spoken) because they weren’t in any way translated ( ie “how dare he call me a ____” or just putting the translation in italics) really diminished my enjoyment of the story. The premise is good, the plot was good, I just feel like more detail is needed for how the hierarchy works and how certain things could be kept from her for so long. It gets three stars though because if I would have had the information that I felt was missing this story would have been exceptional.
Happy Reading my Friends!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
POV: Dual 1st Person
M/F
Stand Alone? This where my issue lies because I am not sure. I feel like I missed info (possibly in another book) that had me confused and feeling like there were huge glaring holes in the story. So maybe?
I can’t really explain fully my reasoning for two stars short of a 5 ⭐️ review without spoilers and I really hate to give spoilers. This is a me thing, but I really did feel like I was missing some information that may have filled in some holes. I am not sure if this info is conveyed in another book that happens in this world or if the information is just missing but basically some things didn’t add up for me. This mixed with words I had to take time to look up (without knowing the language being spoken) because they weren’t in any way translated ( ie “how dare he call me a ____” or just putting the translation in italics) really diminished my enjoyment of the story. The premise is good, the plot was good, I just feel like more detail is needed for how the hierarchy works and how certain things could be kept from her for so long. It gets three stars though because if I would have had the information that I felt was missing this story would have been exceptional.
Happy Reading my Friends!
July 23, 2023
I had really high hopes for this book when I was reviewing the general premise - a mafia-esque, paranormal (werewolves) romance read that resembled a Red Riding Hood (RRH) retelling. I was SO ready for that story… unfortunately, what I got was something kind of resembling that, but with the break-neck speed of the plot and underdeveloped storyline, I was left disappointed.
The main characters were - meh. After reading the story summary, I expected the FMC to be this RRH bad-ass… but I got Frankie, a spoiled brat who was hardly exceptional. Charlie was hardly giving the Daddy vibes expected to match Frankie's brattiness and I was disappointed that his story and background weren't fully developed. The spice was decent - but the love story happened was too rushed, in my opinion. (They're suddenly in love after one spicy scene?!)
The end of the book came and went before I even knew what happened. Like, how did we get here? The events leading up to the ending were… a stretch. (I can't say more without giving spoilers!)
I had high expectations for this book, but unfortunately they fell flat. I would have liked to have read a more evenly paced novel, further character development and backgrounds, and more dimension added to the RRH retelling premise.
[I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.]
The main characters were - meh. After reading the story summary, I expected the FMC to be this RRH bad-ass… but I got Frankie, a spoiled brat who was hardly exceptional. Charlie was hardly giving the Daddy vibes expected to match Frankie's brattiness and I was disappointed that his story and background weren't fully developed. The spice was decent - but the love story happened was too rushed, in my opinion. (They're suddenly in love after one spicy scene?!)
The end of the book came and went before I even knew what happened. Like, how did we get here? The events leading up to the ending were… a stretch. (I can't say more without giving spoilers!)
I had high expectations for this book, but unfortunately they fell flat. I would have liked to have read a more evenly paced novel, further character development and backgrounds, and more dimension added to the RRH retelling premise.
[I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.]
June 10, 2023
" 'It's my job to take care of you, Principessa,' I repeated. 'All of you. Let me, damnit.' "
Mafia and werewolves? Automatic 5 stars. All the tropes get twisted for the better and you just don't expect what's coming.
Muse's writing style is so unique, as Queen of the Night is told in 1st person, but written like 3rd. It's very unique and makes it so interesting.
I still can't believe this was a novella. Told in such a short period of time, but you get so much backstory, character development, and more.
All the references, jokes, even inside jokes, made Queen of the Night that much more interesting and I fell in love from the first page.
Charlie and Frankie make such a great couple, and I definitely need more. Elizabeth Muse is definitely an author that I will read more of.
tropes // only one bed, Alpha MC, mafia, werewolves, retelling, forced proximity, Fated Mates, enemies to lovers
tw // graphic violence, panic attacks, nightmares, murder, blood, gore, violence, death of parents, death of family members, kidnapping
*Note: Elizabeth Muse gives a list of trigger warnings at the beginning of QotN. If any of them are not good for you, please do not read this novella. Graphic violence is shown in Ch. 12. Use caution and stay safe.*
Mafia and werewolves? Automatic 5 stars. All the tropes get twisted for the better and you just don't expect what's coming.
Muse's writing style is so unique, as Queen of the Night is told in 1st person, but written like 3rd. It's very unique and makes it so interesting.
I still can't believe this was a novella. Told in such a short period of time, but you get so much backstory, character development, and more.
All the references, jokes, even inside jokes, made Queen of the Night that much more interesting and I fell in love from the first page.
Charlie and Frankie make such a great couple, and I definitely need more. Elizabeth Muse is definitely an author that I will read more of.
tropes // only one bed, Alpha MC, mafia, werewolves, retelling, forced proximity, Fated Mates, enemies to lovers
tw // graphic violence, panic attacks, nightmares, murder, blood, gore, violence, death of parents, death of family members, kidnapping
*Note: Elizabeth Muse gives a list of trigger warnings at the beginning of QotN. If any of them are not good for you, please do not read this novella. Graphic violence is shown in Ch. 12. Use caution and stay safe.*
April 4, 2024
Werewolf hierarchy, check. Unrequited love, check. Spicy tension, check. Organized crime consortia, check. When Frankie can’t even go out with her girlfriends without a bodyguard, she is not expecting her ex-best friend to be the bodyguard. It’s a good thing Charlie came along at her father’s request, because now they are on the run and he is doing everything in his power to keep the princess safe.
“Oh, okay. And is your TBR,” I emphasized the acronym, “long?” “Longer than your d*ck,” she quipped, clearly trying to get a rise out of me. “Oh my,” I gasped theatrically. “That is long.”
From the blurb of this story, you will know where it’s going. The situation is not hard story to figure out, BUT I did have an issue with the big lack of backstory into Frankies family. You’re just shoved right into Frankie needing a bodyguard and *boom* she’s on the run. It made for an easy read, but I really needed more substance in the story. The werewolf lore that was created was fun, a little different from what you are used to. That said, the spicy scenes are just that…spicy!
TW/CW: Graphic Violence, PTSD, Kidnapping, Implied Sexual Assault, Deceased Family
I received an advance review copy for an honest review.
“Oh, okay. And is your TBR,” I emphasized the acronym, “long?” “Longer than your d*ck,” she quipped, clearly trying to get a rise out of me. “Oh my,” I gasped theatrically. “That is long.”
From the blurb of this story, you will know where it’s going. The situation is not hard story to figure out, BUT I did have an issue with the big lack of backstory into Frankies family. You’re just shoved right into Frankie needing a bodyguard and *boom* she’s on the run. It made for an easy read, but I really needed more substance in the story. The werewolf lore that was created was fun, a little different from what you are used to. That said, the spicy scenes are just that…spicy!
TW/CW: Graphic Violence, PTSD, Kidnapping, Implied Sexual Assault, Deceased Family
I received an advance review copy for an honest review.
July 22, 2023
ARC review for 'Queen of the Night' by Elizabeth Muse
Wow, this story is something different and as suprising as good in the end.
We have to worlds collide: mafia and werewolves. An unexpected combination, but so flowlesly excited.
The are five families in charge. And they all want power.
Francis is the last living descendant of the Fanucci family, after all her four brothers were slaughtered before her in an attempt to gain the power.
Charlie was her childhood friend, first love, but he abandoned her in her most desperate times and know when he's back she can't contain her hate. But her heart wants something else.
On the night that will change everything for the second time, Francis is on the run for her life and her lineage. And Charlie is there with her, to protect, to love and to make Francis a future queen.
I loved the story: it was interesting, fast, engaging with sudden plot twist and it would be great to explore this world again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow, this story is something different and as suprising as good in the end.
We have to worlds collide: mafia and werewolves. An unexpected combination, but so flowlesly excited.
The are five families in charge. And they all want power.
Francis is the last living descendant of the Fanucci family, after all her four brothers were slaughtered before her in an attempt to gain the power.
Charlie was her childhood friend, first love, but he abandoned her in her most desperate times and know when he's back she can't contain her hate. But her heart wants something else.
On the night that will change everything for the second time, Francis is on the run for her life and her lineage. And Charlie is there with her, to protect, to love and to make Francis a future queen.
I loved the story: it was interesting, fast, engaging with sudden plot twist and it would be great to explore this world again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 26, 2024
“It’s my job to take care of you, Principessa,” I repeated. “All of you."
I was excited to read this book. But I believe there were many missed opportunities to make it a great book.
1. The background story at the beginning was very confusing. I tried to grasp what was going on.
2. It is described as dark romance yet there is nothing dark about the H and h.
3. Too many things felt unexplained. Why was he asked to stay away. Why was she in danger because of him? Why was she kept in the dark?
4. The ending felt abrupt.
5. The epilogue would have added to the story if it had been written as an extension of the story, it was a summary of what happened to them in the future.
6. Don't werewolves have super sensitive smell? He never mentioned smelling her need?
7. There was a scene that is talked about that had happened in a dream. Not that scene is one that readers would have enjoyed to witness. It would have added lots of angst to the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was excited to read this book. But I believe there were many missed opportunities to make it a great book.
1. The background story at the beginning was very confusing. I tried to grasp what was going on.
2. It is described as dark romance yet there is nothing dark about the H and h.
3. Too many things felt unexplained. Why was he asked to stay away. Why was she in danger because of him? Why was she kept in the dark?
4. The ending felt abrupt.
5. The epilogue would have added to the story if it had been written as an extension of the story, it was a summary of what happened to them in the future.
6. Don't werewolves have super sensitive smell? He never mentioned smelling her need?
7. There was a scene that is talked about that had happened in a dream. Not that scene is one that readers would have enjoyed to witness. It would have added lots of angst to the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 28, 2024
Decent book. I felt like it all went kinda fast and I was expecting more. I was expecting Frankie to talk to Charlie about what happened to her brothers and I was expecting the story to go slower. I was also surprised that she was kidnapped and then everything was fine right after. It just didn't seem like there was a lot of build up. I was expecting the people who killed her brothers to appear somewhere else in the story with her getting revenge. But instead she gets kidnapped and a man helps her escape, it was easy and then boom the book was over.
Also so many things were not addressed
1) Frankie's dad sending Charlie away which is why he wasn't there for her. It was never addressed
2) Frankie and Charlie didn't talk about what happened that night. The huge scar she had they never talked about it. I was expecting her to open up to Charlie and talk to him, but it never happened.
I just felt like there were a lot of loose ends that weren't addressed. The ending also felt very rushed.
Also so many things were not addressed
1) Frankie's dad sending Charlie away which is why he wasn't there for her. It was never addressed
2) Frankie and Charlie didn't talk about what happened that night. The huge scar she had they never talked about it. I was expecting her to open up to Charlie and talk to him, but it never happened.
I just felt like there were a lot of loose ends that weren't addressed. The ending also felt very rushed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2024
\\\\\ 3.5 \\\\\
This was honestly a pretty decent read. I cannot resist a fated mates story mixed with mafia! It was quick to read, a perfect amount of spice and action packed story. If you are in need of a little something before starting a heavy book, this one is the perfect palette cleanser!
Read if you like:
🔥 fated mates
🔥 mafia
🔥 enemies to lovers
🔥 bodyguard
🔥 forced proximity
🔥 stories on the shorter side
I really liked that the story instantly grabbed my attention. The double POV made it so enjoyable, and even though it took a while for the FMC to grow on me, I liked Charlie instantly. I'm gonna be honest, I had a lot of questions throughout my reading and I feel like I still had many questions after it ended, so maybe this story would have benefited more pages or a second book, I don't know, but it could be confusing at time. It was a fun read and I would have been happy to continue so yeah, it's one of those short reads where you really feel it's short and you kinda miss something.
The plot was interesting, those flashbacks and all and the dark side of it all, I enjoyed it a lot. So that left me with mixed feelings, cause on one part, I liked it and read it pretty fast, but on another part I needed more. I also sometimes questioned our MCs decisions, many situations could have been avoided if they had said something sooner and this got a little bit frustrating, but then, the action we got cause of it was good soooo nevermind, haha!
I recommend reading this one if you are into these tropes cause it's a great story with twists, action and steamy scenes and I'd be up for more books in that world.
Thanks to the author for my copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
This was honestly a pretty decent read. I cannot resist a fated mates story mixed with mafia! It was quick to read, a perfect amount of spice and action packed story. If you are in need of a little something before starting a heavy book, this one is the perfect palette cleanser!
Read if you like:
🔥 fated mates
🔥 mafia
🔥 enemies to lovers
🔥 bodyguard
🔥 forced proximity
🔥 stories on the shorter side
I really liked that the story instantly grabbed my attention. The double POV made it so enjoyable, and even though it took a while for the FMC to grow on me, I liked Charlie instantly. I'm gonna be honest, I had a lot of questions throughout my reading and I feel like I still had many questions after it ended, so maybe this story would have benefited more pages or a second book, I don't know, but it could be confusing at time. It was a fun read and I would have been happy to continue so yeah, it's one of those short reads where you really feel it's short and you kinda miss something.
The plot was interesting, those flashbacks and all and the dark side of it all, I enjoyed it a lot. So that left me with mixed feelings, cause on one part, I liked it and read it pretty fast, but on another part I needed more. I also sometimes questioned our MCs decisions, many situations could have been avoided if they had said something sooner and this got a little bit frustrating, but then, the action we got cause of it was good soooo nevermind, haha!
I recommend reading this one if you are into these tropes cause it's a great story with twists, action and steamy scenes and I'd be up for more books in that world.
Thanks to the author for my copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
February 28, 2024
Frankie is the only child left of Don Baxter. After her brothers came to save her, they were all killed in horrible ways in front of her. I cried my eyes out during the flashbacks. Charles, or Charlie, was her bestie growing up. However, he left her when they were getting too close because he knew that he could never have her. He became her new bodyguard and things went to absolute heck. I found myself chewing on my nails, laughing, giggling and wincing a lot during this book. There is so much that Frankie doesn’t know about her family, but Charlie does. Weird stuff happens and Charlie has to protect her, and boy the fight scenes are both hot and scary. I adored this book and I can’t wait for another set in this world because it totally fascinated me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 12, 2024
I read this novella in just a couple hours, so it's safe to say I was pretty hooked from the start. It was cute, it had banter, it had spice, and I really enjoyed EM's writing style. It was a light and fun read for me.
We get the mafia, werewolves, trauma, romance and so much more. I loved the childhood best friend to enemies to lovers trope. I loved the characters. With that being said, the only reason I'm giving this 3.5 stars is because I truly think this story would've THRIVED in a longer format. There was just so much more I wanted to explore with these characters and this world!
I will definitely continue to follow Elizabeth Muse to see if she does anything more with this story (or anything similar for that matter), and I hope you do too! Worth picking up and adding to your TBR.
We get the mafia, werewolves, trauma, romance and so much more. I loved the childhood best friend to enemies to lovers trope. I loved the characters. With that being said, the only reason I'm giving this 3.5 stars is because I truly think this story would've THRIVED in a longer format. There was just so much more I wanted to explore with these characters and this world!
I will definitely continue to follow Elizabeth Muse to see if she does anything more with this story (or anything similar for that matter), and I hope you do too! Worth picking up and adding to your TBR.
March 3, 2023
I'm not usually into Mafia romance but this sounded interesting and the price was right so I gave it a shot. I made it 20% in before I realized that it's a werewolf romance which I really don't care for. The werewolf Mafia theme was just the last straw because I was really confused from the start. I genuinely thought I'd accidentally started in the middle in a series because there were constant unexpected references to previous events. It took several chapters to figure out who'd died before the start of the book and I still don't know what's up with her scar. What kind of scar? Where is it? Why is Charlie so mad? If she kept it private then how does he know about it?
I don't want to read a mediocre written, confusing, werewolf Mafia book so I'm dnf-ing at 22%.
I don't want to read a mediocre written, confusing, werewolf Mafia book so I'm dnf-ing at 22%.
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