Take a photo of a barcode or cover
4.12 AVERAGE
4.12 AVERAGE
This is a dark, emotionally heavy and violent organized crime story with star crossed lovers spanning two decades.
I love how the author writes such beautiful and lyrical words about extremely dark and ugly situations and characters. It’s a very enjoyable juxtaposition.
I love the way she adds bits of humor and heartfelt moments in the middle of all the brutality and sorrow.
A lot of these warmer moments happen with secondary characters who play major parts in the story.
There are a lot of cameo appearances by characters from the authors previous books.
It adds a bit of warmth with that familiarity.
Even if you haven’t read all of those books, you still feel the characters bonds. (I’ve not read all of them.)
The story is incredibly intense from beginning to the end.
It’s action packed, a lot of the story involves Frankie and his path to vengeance for his family, himself and his beloved Ada.
There’s a lot of twists and turns as he navigates his way to his end goals.
It’s a very violent and grief filled story. It was much more emotionally heavy than I expected.
The romance is insta love, not my personal favorite. The insta love and their separation by circumstances for most of the book caused a disconnect for me.
I understood their desire and devotion for/to each other, I didn’t feel it.
I did take into account the type of fated, star crossed romance that this is, so I understand that and I adjusted my expectations.
The sex.. the steamy, spicy scenes are rough and very unique.
They involved some very interesting and slightly twisted requests and props and I liked that side of them. They are definitely not sweet, soft or romantic when they grabbed their rare stolen moments together.
I didn’t fall in love with them as a couple.
However, I did fall in love with the characters individually. They all have big personalities, interesting backgrounds and complex emotions.
I liked the writing, I think the pace was great.
The vibe and tension was strong and well written.
The end is very satisfying, I was really rooting for the characters. They’ve all been to hell and back a few times over.
There’s a few surprises along the way, some I guessed some I didn’t. They still worked well for the story even the ones I suspected.
Overall I enjoyed the story, I just didn’t love the romance. More specifically it wasn’t enough romance for me to love that part.
I’ve read the author before and loved her writing, characters and stories and I’ll continue to read this authors books.
This one was very good, I just was expecting an epic love story that I personally didn’t get.
I think plenty of people will love both parts of this story, it’s a very personal preference.
I love how the author writes such beautiful and lyrical words about extremely dark and ugly situations and characters. It’s a very enjoyable juxtaposition.
I love the way she adds bits of humor and heartfelt moments in the middle of all the brutality and sorrow.
A lot of these warmer moments happen with secondary characters who play major parts in the story.
There are a lot of cameo appearances by characters from the authors previous books.
It adds a bit of warmth with that familiarity.
Even if you haven’t read all of those books, you still feel the characters bonds. (I’ve not read all of them.)
The story is incredibly intense from beginning to the end.
It’s action packed, a lot of the story involves Frankie and his path to vengeance for his family, himself and his beloved Ada.
There’s a lot of twists and turns as he navigates his way to his end goals.
It’s a very violent and grief filled story. It was much more emotionally heavy than I expected.
The romance is insta love, not my personal favorite. The insta love and their separation by circumstances for most of the book caused a disconnect for me.
I understood their desire and devotion for/to each other, I didn’t feel it.
I did take into account the type of fated, star crossed romance that this is, so I understand that and I adjusted my expectations.
The sex.. the steamy, spicy scenes are rough and very unique.
They involved some very interesting and slightly twisted requests and props and I liked that side of them. They are definitely not sweet, soft or romantic when they grabbed their rare stolen moments together.
I didn’t fall in love with them as a couple.
However, I did fall in love with the characters individually. They all have big personalities, interesting backgrounds and complex emotions.
I liked the writing, I think the pace was great.
The vibe and tension was strong and well written.
The end is very satisfying, I was really rooting for the characters. They’ve all been to hell and back a few times over.
There’s a few surprises along the way, some I guessed some I didn’t. They still worked well for the story even the ones I suspected.
Overall I enjoyed the story, I just didn’t love the romance. More specifically it wasn’t enough romance for me to love that part.
I’ve read the author before and loved her writing, characters and stories and I’ll continue to read this authors books.
This one was very good, I just was expecting an epic love story that I personally didn’t get.
I think plenty of people will love both parts of this story, it’s a very personal preference.
2.5⭐️Heavy on the dark mafia, a little too light on the romance.
Firstly, I know he had his reasons but he too far too long to save her.
In fact so heavy on the dark themes (R especially) I felt uncomfortable when the MC’s made love, especially the gun scene. Too much.
I absolutely loved the Santiago series so I’m quite surprised how little I liked this.
Firstly, I know he had his reasons but he too far too long to save her.
In fact so heavy on the dark themes (R especially) I felt uncomfortable when the MC’s made love, especially the gun scene. Too much.
I absolutely loved the Santiago series so I’m quite surprised how little I liked this.
A London Villain
Cristo Sinners World
By: Catherine Wiltcher
Narrated by: Aaron Smith, Evelyn Rose
Star crossed lovers set in the world of mafia, how can it go wrong? Catherine Wiltcher is the best at romantic suspense and this was not exception to her talent. Frankie takes Ada's virginity on a dare, but that one time, that one action has their hearts hooked together forever. His love is on the edge of obsession, so when Ada is taken away for the life she was destined to, he made it his focus to get her back. Truly dark, and gritty Wiltcher gives us a fantastic listen plotted with twists and turns I didn't see coming. I didn't know who to trust and if their love would stand the test of time. Fourteen years is a long time and their journey is extremely messy! Loved this one as I do each of Wiltcher's books. She is a one click for me.
Aaron Smith and Evelyn Rose are both new narrators to me, and all I can say is WOW! The perfect casting for this story, their British accents brought the story and locations alive like a movie in my mind. Smith is the gritty, dangerous Frankie, and his voice held all of his feelings. Rose is Ada, a little innocent in the beginning, but as she matures, so does the emotions in her voice. I loved these two and will be watching for more narrations by them.
Cristo Sinners World
By: Catherine Wiltcher
Narrated by: Aaron Smith, Evelyn Rose
Star crossed lovers set in the world of mafia, how can it go wrong? Catherine Wiltcher is the best at romantic suspense and this was not exception to her talent. Frankie takes Ada's virginity on a dare, but that one time, that one action has their hearts hooked together forever. His love is on the edge of obsession, so when Ada is taken away for the life she was destined to, he made it his focus to get her back. Truly dark, and gritty Wiltcher gives us a fantastic listen plotted with twists and turns I didn't see coming. I didn't know who to trust and if their love would stand the test of time. Fourteen years is a long time and their journey is extremely messy! Loved this one as I do each of Wiltcher's books. She is a one click for me.
Aaron Smith and Evelyn Rose are both new narrators to me, and all I can say is WOW! The perfect casting for this story, their British accents brought the story and locations alive like a movie in my mind. Smith is the gritty, dangerous Frankie, and his voice held all of his feelings. Rose is Ada, a little innocent in the beginning, but as she matures, so does the emotions in her voice. I loved these two and will be watching for more narrations by them.
Judging from the vibe Santiago’s giving off, any connection to God just left the .
What a f*cking book it was fire
What a f*cking book it was fire
Sometimes, when reading a great story, you become immersed and feel every part of the story as it unfolds. A London Villain was one of those stories. From the first page, until the end, I was devoted and committed to Frankie and Ada's story. The words making me feel and reel from every fight, every kiss, every wrong that is unleashed on these fated lovers.
This was a love story written from the heart, and it bled through the pages. This young couple living on the adage of "no regrets", waiting and hoping for the day they will be reunited and become one, against all odds. Ada living through an abundance of pain and devastation, striving for the end and hoping for her happily ever after. While Frankie struggles with revenge and karma, looking to inflict on others what was done to him and those he loves.
Catherine Wiltcher has written a beautiful story of love and passion and I would give it 10 stars if I could.
This was a love story written from the heart, and it bled through the pages. This young couple living on the adage of "no regrets", waiting and hoping for the day they will be reunited and become one, against all odds. Ada living through an abundance of pain and devastation, striving for the end and hoping for her happily ever after. While Frankie struggles with revenge and karma, looking to inflict on others what was done to him and those he loves.
Catherine Wiltcher has written a beautiful story of love and passion and I would give it 10 stars if I could.
This book is heavy.
A lot of heartache.
A lot of darkness.
But we reach an HEA
This is Frankie and Ada’s love story.
It’s a very intense insta-love story which normally is my least favorite trope but I love Catherine Wiltcher’s writing too much to pass one up.
I can look it over when two characters meet, fall in love, and have raunchy sex all in one go. Believable? No.
But it helps to understand the intense passion between these two flawed characters.
Ada is a prisoner. She’s horribly abused and its, at times, hard to read. Her life is brutal but never fails to give up.
Frankie has been learning the skills he needs to seek revenge on the man who killed everyone he’s ever loved and cares for, mainly his father.
When these two cross paths, everything changes. Ada has someone to live for. To fight for. And Frankie’s plan on revenge slightly change when the very man he plans to kill has Ada in his grips.
Tons of twists and turns. A few I predicted from the start but I was still invested in the story from start to finish.
Not my favorite story from this author BUT my favorite characters she did bring alive did make appearances.. Santiago anyone? Grayson? Yes.
I’m even more excited for a secondary characters story- and that’s Viper. He’s past is absolutely tragic and I’m really rooting for his story to be a 5⭐️.
A lot of heartache.
A lot of darkness.
But we reach an HEA
This is Frankie and Ada’s love story.
It’s a very intense insta-love story which normally is my least favorite trope but I love Catherine Wiltcher’s writing too much to pass one up.
I can look it over when two characters meet, fall in love, and have raunchy sex all in one go. Believable? No.
But it helps to understand the intense passion between these two flawed characters.
Ada is a prisoner. She’s horribly abused and its, at times, hard to read. Her life is brutal but never fails to give up.
Frankie has been learning the skills he needs to seek revenge on the man who killed everyone he’s ever loved and cares for, mainly his father.
When these two cross paths, everything changes. Ada has someone to live for. To fight for. And Frankie’s plan on revenge slightly change when the very man he plans to kill has Ada in his grips.
Tons of twists and turns. A few I predicted from the start but I was still invested in the story from start to finish.
Not my favorite story from this author BUT my favorite characters she did bring alive did make appearances.. Santiago anyone? Grayson? Yes.
I’m even more excited for a secondary characters story- and that’s Viper. He’s past is absolutely tragic and I’m really rooting for his story to be a 5⭐️.
dark
emotional
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I love a good revenge story and this book was good even great(if not for the hot-headed hero).
This was fast paced and I devoured it, the beginning was so intriguing and catchy and I just couldn’t put it down. Frankie and Ada’s story is so sad but beautiful in their devotion to each other from first sight.
It was kind of unrealistic how quickly they fell though, almost five minute interaction then they’re professing undying love for each other and having sex at their second interaction after another barely 10 minute interaction, even one night stands have better buildups. Due to this instalove, couldn’t really enjoy and understand the romance and sex scenes.
Frankie was so annoying with his impulsiveness and hotheadedness, almost always getting his people in trouble. I think the last quarter of the book could have been avoided if only the hero stuck to Santiago’s plan, sheesh. He was so annoying.
Ada, my girl, a queen and more. She was so resilient and strong. I loved that she was the one who got to end her abuser’s life. A great revenge book
This was fast paced and I devoured it, the beginning was so intriguing and catchy and I just couldn’t put it down. Frankie and Ada’s story is so sad but beautiful in their devotion to each other from first sight.
It was kind of unrealistic how quickly they fell though, almost five minute interaction then they’re professing undying love for each other and having sex at their second interaction after another barely 10 minute interaction, even one night stands have better buildups. Due to this instalove, couldn’t really enjoy and understand the romance and sex scenes.
Frankie was so annoying with his impulsiveness and hotheadedness, almost always getting his people in trouble. I think the last quarter of the book could have been avoided if only the hero stuck to Santiago’s plan, sheesh. He was so annoying.
Ada, my girl, a queen and more. She was so resilient and strong. I loved that she was the one who got to end her abuser’s life. A great revenge book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Still 5 stars after rereading)
''We were never strangers, Ada. Just lovers undiscovered''
Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Physical/s*xual assault/abuse
- Mention of r*pe
- Mention of human trafficking
- Descriptive violence/torture/d*ath
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
(I am adding to my original review since I have a few more things to say after rereading it)
''Brotherhood is brotherhood, but Ada is my whole world''
I have waited for Frankie’s story for so long and my oh my did it live up to my expectations! There were moments where my heart hurt too much, and I needed to take a breather from continuing. So many things were instantly revealed that you wondered what else could possibly happen or go on as the book progressed.
The true evil were the scums who hurt and destroyed lives for their own gain. Taking so much innocence to feed their sick and twisted greed and needs.
''You broke for us, Ada, and that makes you the fucking moon and the stars''
Ada and Frankie have the most beautiful and saddest love story. It spans 2 decades. I love how strong they were and how much they loved each other. The fact that they went on 14 years without seeing one another, speaking or being in the same country is torture. I loved the moment they are finally able to be together again.
''For fourteen years, I lived for you
The books he would send her in secret throughout the years to remind her of their love. The fact Frankie was CELIBATE the entire time. That’s 14 years of patience and absolute love. Their commitment for each other was wonderful to see in such a fucked up world they lived in.
I did figure out the potential twist early on regarding Bambi, but I didn’t care because I loved this book. I think the way it played out was just phenomenal. You could tell there was a secret between about existence when Viper and her both Frankie different answers as to how she was related to Viper. I do wish we had gotten her real name; I am assuming it's not Alex and hopefully we find out in either A London Viper or her own book A London Thief! and I also wonder if she will be paired off with another next gen character??
''O’Sullivan’s reaction when he sees the tall Colombian standing next to Ada is a fucking religious experience''
I loved seeing Grayson and Santiago. I love that the books all somehow tie in together in the most important way. The power Santiago holds though, his presence is always the darkest shadow, but you know having him by your side will give you a victory worth having. We also got the shortest scene with Edier in it.
''Saying goodbye to an old friend''
Roisin though, listen her death hit me hard. She had nothing to hold onto for 18 years, but she survived the entire time and did so much good without anyone knowing except for Viper. The fact he was there for her in her last moments and let her die in peace and comfort was such a beautiful thing to give her after almost two decades of pain and unimaginable torture.
Catherine is an instant buy for me. She never disappoints with her incredible stories and characters. I honestly can’t wait for Vipers story and anything that she writes. She can’t do no wrong in my eyes and each book I have read has stayed with me.
❤️
''We were never strangers, Ada. Just lovers undiscovered''
Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Physical/s*xual assault/abuse
- Mention of r*pe
- Mention of human trafficking
- Descriptive violence/torture/d*ath
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
(I am adding to my original review since I have a few more things to say after rereading it)
''Brotherhood is brotherhood, but Ada is my whole world''
I have waited for Frankie’s story for so long and my oh my did it live up to my expectations! There were moments where my heart hurt too much, and I needed to take a breather from continuing. So many things were instantly revealed that you wondered what else could possibly happen or go on as the book progressed.
The true evil were the scums who hurt and destroyed lives for their own gain. Taking so much innocence to feed their sick and twisted greed and needs.
''You broke for us, Ada, and that makes you the fucking moon and the stars''
Ada and Frankie have the most beautiful and saddest love story. It spans 2 decades. I love how strong they were and how much they loved each other. The fact that they went on 14 years without seeing one another, speaking or being in the same country is torture. I loved the moment they are finally able to be together again.
''For fourteen years, I lived for you
The books he would send her in secret throughout the years to remind her of their love. The fact Frankie was CELIBATE the entire time. That’s 14 years of patience and absolute love. Their commitment for each other was wonderful to see in such a fucked up world they lived in.
I did figure out the potential twist early on regarding Bambi, but I didn’t care because I loved this book. I think the way it played out was just phenomenal. You could tell there was a secret between about existence when Viper and her both Frankie different answers as to how she was related to Viper. I do wish we had gotten her real name; I am assuming it's not Alex and hopefully we find out in either A London Viper or her own book A London Thief! and I also wonder if she will be paired off with another next gen character??
''O’Sullivan’s reaction when he sees the tall Colombian standing next to Ada is a fucking religious experience''
I loved seeing Grayson and Santiago. I love that the books all somehow tie in together in the most important way. The power Santiago holds though, his presence is always the darkest shadow, but you know having him by your side will give you a victory worth having. We also got the shortest scene with Edier in it.
''Saying goodbye to an old friend''
Roisin though, listen her death hit me hard. She had nothing to hold onto for 18 years, but she survived the entire time and did so much good without anyone knowing except for Viper. The fact he was there for her in her last moments and let her die in peace and comfort was such a beautiful thing to give her after almost two decades of pain and unimaginable torture.
Catherine is an instant buy for me. She never disappoints with her incredible stories and characters. I honestly can’t wait for Vipers story and anything that she writes. She can’t do no wrong in my eyes and each book I have read has stayed with me.
❤️
All reviews posted at Tales of Love, Life, and Murder
This is a heavy read and very dark but so very worth it. Frankie’s story pulled me in from the first page and Ada’s life is heartbreaking in every way. Their love is the only good thing in her world. The author paints such vivid pictures with her words, I was on an emotional rollercoaster the whole time. It’s an action-packed story and I couldn’t put this book down because I needed to know what happened next. Some of the scenes are tough to read because I was so invested in these characters, but they got their HEA and I loved every minute of it.