Coerced Queen by Charmaine Pauls

Charmaine Pauls brings Anya and Saverio's heartbreaking and obsessive love story to a climactic finish in Coerced Queen. There was angst, unrequited love, found family, betrayal, sacrifice, redemption, as well as incredible character development from both Anya and Saverio. There were so many unforgettable moments that brought tears to my eyes—from Saverio's struggle to live on after the attack to Anya's determination to save both her husband and daughter, I loved it all. While Saverio and Anya did frustrate me at times because of their stubbornness, I was very happy with how the author resolved their conflict. They were both in love with each other, but Saverio's constant denial of it prevented him from acknowledging the truth and telling Anya. He was always in love with her. Saverio's obsessive and possessive love for Anya was still addicting to read about just like it did when he first threatened and controlled her in Coerced Kiss. And yet, there's no denying that their relationship has shifted. Anya is no longer the innocent young woman seduced by Saverio but a fierce mother and wife who would do anything for her family. Saverio's precious treasure had become a powerful queen in her own right.

“You’re more than my match in every way… You're the reason I breathe. You’re my most precious treasure.”

In the end, I loved how all of Anya and Saverio's dreams came true because they were able to find love in each other. The epilogue was so sweet and I loved seeing how happy, peaceful, and content their lives had become after everything. Raphael Morelli and Anya's mother got what they deserved. Even though Saverio was never able to reconcile with his own father, he took all of that pain and turned it into love for his family and children. It was incredible to see. I hope that Charmaine Pauls will write a series or book for Dante because that man deserves a heroine just as amazing as himself—especially after everything he had done for Saverio and Anya. I loved all of the secondary characters, especially Livy who was like the mother Anya always wanted. Fans of dark and mafia romance will absolutely love this book as it features a tortured and possessive hero who will do anything to keep his beloved heroine. The trilogy began their love story as a "cat and mouse" relationship but it eventually transformed into a "game of chess" where the queen was the most powerful piece of all. I highly recommend this trilogy to those who are looking for an emotional and steamy read!

*This ARC was generously provided by the author for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★★