Review: Legacy (Filthy Marcellos #3.5) by Bethany-Kris

Plot Summary

filth·y (fĭl′thē)

adj. filth·i·er, filth·i·est

1. Covered or smeared with filth; disgustingly dirty.

2. Obscene or offensive.

3. Vile; dirty.

adv. filth·y

1. To an extreme and often disgusting extent.

Newly released from prison after serving a three-year term, Johnathan Marcello just wants to get his head straight, but he's the only one who believes he can do it.

Stepping into her mother's shoes is the very last thing on Catherine Marcello's mind, but it's already too late and she's got her own games to play.

The spotlight wasn't in Andino Marcello's plan, but the Capo might not be given a choice when Cosa Nostra starts looking for la famiglia's next boss.

Being the baby of the family and a good girl is all Lucia Marcello knows, but a little freedom and space could give her the chance to shed those masks.

In the Marcellos, being filthy isn't a birthright, it's earned. A new generation is ready to take their thrones, but it's not that simple.

This family is a legacy and this generation might just be the filthiest yet.

***

PLEASE NOTE: Filthy Marcellos: Legacy is a COMPANION piece to the Marcellos series. It is NOT intended to be a standalone in the series. It is not intended to be a full length story with a formal HEA, but a 20k PREQUEL to a new series featuring the involved characters.

My Review

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Bethany Kris has once again captivated readers with Filthy Marcellos: Legacy, a thrilling and unforgettable addition to the Filthy Marcellos series. This novella masterfully blends drama, passion, and family loyalty, keeping readers hooked from the very first page. Kris’s writing pulls you into the dangerous and complex world of the Marcellos family, making the journey through this story absolutely compelling.

One of the aspects I truly appreciated was the intimate look into the lives of the second generation of the Marcello family. The novella offers a fresh perspective on how these characters have been shaped by their upbringing within the powerful and notorious Marcello family. It delves into their struggles to carve their own identities while being tethered to the weight of family legacy and expectations. Each character—Johnathan, Catherine, Andino, and Lucia—faces unique challenges as they balance their personal desires with the responsibilities thrust upon them. This internal conflict adds a compelling layer to the plot and makes the reader root for each character as they navigate their roles within this powerful mafia family.

Kris also does an excellent job of exploring the relationships between the second-generation Marcellos and their parents. The choices and actions of the older generation have a profound impact on the younger one, shaping their decisions, desires, and outlooks on life. The emotional depth of these interactions is incredibly rich, as we see the tension between wanting to break free from the past while simultaneously respecting it. This exploration of family bonds provides a raw and authentic portrayal of the sacrifices and emotional toll of carrying the weight of a mafia family’s legacy.

Moreover, the novella showcases the nuances of power, authority, and family duty. It’s not just about love and romance—Filthy Marcellos: Legacy explores the immense pressures and responsibilities that come with being part of such an influential and dangerous family. Each character’s growth is earned, and the emotional stakes are high as they struggle to find their place within this web of loyalty and duty.

Bethany Kris has once again proven her ability to craft a story that is equal parts intrigue, passion, and emotional intensity. Filthy Marcellos: Legacy is a brilliant continuation of the series, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what comes next for this captivating family. If you enjoy stories with suspense, romance, and deeply developed characters, this novella is a must-read for fans of the series.