Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Romancing the Mob Boss Series #1

Romancing the Mob Boss

Rate this book
Trina Hathaway is a waitress in a Las Vegas strip joint who spends a romantic evening with a good looking hunk she met at the club. Hoping to see him again, but not disappointed when she doesn’t, she goes on with her life. But a week later, when she interviews for a job at the renowned PaLargio Hotel and Casino on the Vegas Strip, and discovers that the owner of the hotel is the man she had slept with, a man who very much wishes to rekindle what they had captured that passionate night, her entire life spirals into a new and dramatic world where family ties and ever-increasing violence ropes them in.

Reno Gabrini is a man’s man who knew, the first time he spent an evening with her, that Trina was the woman for him. But he soon discovers that capturing her heart was not going to be as easy as ordering his minions around, especially with his mob connections that keeps their romance in a constant state of uncertainty. But his love for Trina makes him bound and determined to do all he can to keep her, even if it means forsaking all others.

In an interracial romance that tests the very essence of love, Reno and Trina discovers that there are no easy answers, and no perfect endings, but that their love and devotion to each other can help them find the way.

245 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 15, 2011

41 people are currently reading
1190 people want to read

About the author

Mallory Monroe

166 books331 followers
Mallory Monroe, a pseudonym of award-winning, bestselling literary author Teresa McClain-Watson, has well over a hundred bestselling books under her name. They include MaeBelle Marie, the Alex Drakos Romantic Suspense series, the Oz Drakos series, the Reno Gabrini (Mob Boss) series, the Mick Sinatra series, the Sal Gabrini series, the Tommy Gabrini series, the Big Daddy Sinatra series, the Trevor Reese series, the Rags to Romance series, the Teddy Sinatra series, the Boone and Charly series, the Monk Paletti series, the President's Boyfriend series, and the President's Girlfriend/Dutch and Gina series. She has also worked as an executive editor for many years and as an investigator for three. Recently widowed, she has attended Florida State University, Florida A & M. University, the University of North Florida, and the University of Mississippi at Oxford Summer Law Institute. A law school dropout, she holds a Master's degree in history and education and credits God Almighty for ALL of her success. Visit mallorymonroebooks.com or austinbrookpublishing.com for updates and more information on all of her titles. See also amazon.com/author/teresamcclainwatson.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
521 (42%)
4 stars
318 (25%)
3 stars
241 (19%)
2 stars
103 (8%)
1 star
45 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
Profile Image for Savannah- Quad Motherin' Book Readin' Diva.
230 reviews34 followers
September 22, 2013
Good. Grief.

This had SO much potential and I can tell Ms. Monroe has a lot of potential for storytelling. But it did not come to fruition in this book, lol.

For one, I had to assume that the way she had Reno & Co. speaking was her attempt at maybe a NY/Bronx/Italian wise guy accent?? I don't know. But it was like wiseguy + hoodrat rolled into one. Inconsistent and kind of sorry.

Two, what is UP with the persistent, repetitive, COMPLETELY overzealous usage of the freakin word "pound" with this book? I mean, literally it got to the point where I started laughing hysterically every time they went to bed because I knew it would be a matter of two or three lines in before the almight POUND came at my eyeballs. And she didn't even restrict it to using it once-per-sex scene. It was used multiple times in EVER...SINGLE...ONE! Please, give me a break! It really was ridiculous. And irritating.

This writer has some talent in terms of telling a story. But she was in way too big a hurry to get to what I imagine she considered the meaty parts and completely ignored the rest. We keep hearing how Reno considers Trina such a good person, but to be honest, I saw zero evidence of why he thought that way about her. None whatsoever. In fact, I got NO sense of who Trina even was, let alone that she was some angel.

2 stars because 1 wouldn't credit the fact that it really did have great potential and Reno COULD be a fascinating character if better developed and fleshed out. But 3? Nah. Fuhgetaboutit. lol
Profile Image for Bodea.
748 reviews12 followers
March 28, 2012
The plot was actually pretty good. It held my interest and I liked the characters well enough. I think with a bit of editing, it could be a three star book. The sexy times were not well written though. At all. Period. If I had to read the word pound one more time my eyes were going to roll back into my head never to return.
Profile Image for Lady Raven RAVE!.
1,824 reviews1,506 followers
November 13, 2011

http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com / for book lovers and readers.

BRIEF SUMMARY
Trina is a waitress in Las Vegas, trying to make a living. While in Vegas, she meets Reno, who is Italian and the owner of the Palargio Hotel and Casino. After falling for Reno, Trina learns that he could be connected to the mob. With her discovery, Trina must decide if she can weather the storm with Reno.

THOUGHTS

I really enjoyed this book, but there are a few ‘BUTS’ that really had me disputing the rating I wanted to give the book. The story definitely felt like 4 stars, but my enjoyment felt like 3.5 stars.

I think the author captured the mobster feel of the story and that is what I liked about the story. Both characters had appeal that I also enjoyed reading. Trina, she seems to be a strong female but a bit naïve at times. I definitely felt as though she gave in a bit easily to Reno, but then again, Reno was irresistible. Reno was definitely your alpha male that few or many females like to read about in their books. He was commanding and a bit impatient at times throughout the book. However, he still had sex appeal that made up for a few of his characteristics.

The ‘BUTS’ that I felt while reading, I was not a fan of the bedroom scenes most of the times. I’m not expecting erotica, but a few times I felt that the minute their clothes came off it was over. In addition, when I knew they were going to have sex, I bet myself that the word pound and banging were going to be used each time. Sometimes, and not all the time, I felt that it detracts from the moments that were meant to be special. My reason for saying this, it felt like every sex scene was the same, clothes off, in, pound, and over. It wasn’t to the point where it prevented me from enjoying the plot of the story. As I say this, this is my personal taste, and it is not meant in a mean way towards the author.

As for the rest of the story, I enjoyed the plot that was unfolding between Reno’s family and rival mobsters, as it involves murder and revenge.

Story: GOOD
Intimacy: FAIR to GOOD
Enjoyment: FAIR to GOOD

Website: http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com


Profile Image for Emily.
5,878 reviews551 followers
February 17, 2017
Trina Hathaway is anxious to see if the interview she has at PaLargio Hotel and Casino will lead to the management job she has applied for. What she doesn't expect is that the owner is the man she just spent a night with. Reno Gabrini knew when he saw Trina he had to have her but he never expected to fall hard for the strong woman who has no problem putting him in his place. He needs to tell her he is the son of a mob boss, will she be able to stay by his side once she learns the truth.

This had a few problems, the story itself was good but some of the dialogue was too much. I liked Trina and Reno together, definitely had chemistry.
Profile Image for B*tchy.
271 reviews53 followers
July 22, 2016
Fun story, but the grammar is pretty horrible. Also, it's spelled "Luigi", not "Louwegie." I am excited to read the rest knowing the crossover between the characters and her other books.
Profile Image for Layeshia.
379 reviews
Read
October 9, 2015
The Ultimate Mob connection!

What better connection is there to have with the mob boss than being his lady?! There really is no higher position especially if he loves you and you love him. The only thing that can spoil this love match is uncertainty. Reno and Trina genuinely have a strong attraction to each other which turns eventually rather quickly into love. So there is no question there. The problem happens when Reno's father who is a total badass and definitely a mob boss gets into it with another mob boss is where the problem stems from because Reno has to put it into it. And this puts them in the middle of something that he does not want to be in at all. Reno and Trina's fate is sealed however when Reno's father and brother are killed. This was a good story I'm going on to the next installment. <3
Profile Image for Carolyn.
15 reviews1 follower
September 2, 2011
Romancing the Mob Boss is a passionate and entertaining IR read! Trina and Reno, the main characters, share an amazing connection. Although past relationships, "the mob," and family troubles test often the durability of the couple's love.

What I enjoyed most about the narrative is that Dominic "Reno" Gabrini, is not a typical "hero", as stated in the story, "he's no saint." He's a strong man who makes no excuses for his actions or family connections. I loved that the story took place in Las Vegas--one of my favorite cities!

Romancing the Mob Boss is definitely worth reading and a "keeper." I would also enjoy reading a sequel; I need to know what happen next in the couple's life!
Profile Image for Melk.
7 reviews
Read
November 13, 2015
Sheesh. He pounds her on 25 separate occasions >:


But then there was that one time when he was too emotionally distraught and he, (and I quote) "..didn't pound her the way he usually did, he caressed her with his lovemaking"





Girl whet....

lolol
Profile Image for Samantha.
986 reviews2 followers
May 19, 2015
There were so many flaws with this book that it took away from me really enjoying it. I found myself not liking Reno. The way he spoke was ridiculous. The repetitive use of words in the same conversation drove me nuts. Then I couldn't even handle the sex scenes. Too much "pounding" and nothing else.
Profile Image for Mspraise50.
1,597 reviews65 followers
November 27, 2013
I loved it. It was a great read and I love how Reno loves Trina and wants to protect her from the dangers of his life.
Profile Image for Tiffany.
423 reviews19 followers
September 5, 2018
2.5 disappointing stars.

I started out with the Mick Sinatra series and moved to Alex Drakos. I then moved on to Charles Sinatra. I only got through the 2nd book and decided I wanted to start reading this series. In all honesty, I don’t know where the entire series starts.

Anyways, um, what was this? I thought the entire story was extremely rushed. The very first night, she has unprotected sex with Reno. She heard about his past with other women and didn’t think to get tested or wear a condom?!

I didn’t like Trina. She’s secretive about her past, who she is and family but hounds Reno about his family and mob ties. We know nothing about Trina. Joey could have been right when he said that she could have been the police.

This was a turn off and sadly, I’m not sure that I want to continue with this series. 😔
Profile Image for Bennita.
1,041 reviews31 followers
November 27, 2012
Could have given this four stars but some serious editing is needed. Also, Reno's dialect had me stumped. I wasn't sure if he was speaking broken english or if he was a thug from the hood. I expected him to sound more intelligent, since he was a respected business man. Other than that, the story held my attention and kept me wondering what would happen next. Trina was a strong character that didn't take no bull****! Reno finally met his match with her but his softer side shone through, which made him more likeable. Overall, it was a good read and I'm anxious to read the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Tanielle.
Author 0 books38 followers
April 9, 2015
Rough but alright. Trina was a bit too gullible for me in this one. On one hand she had backbone and on the other she was a puppet. Reno's character seemed so stereotypical that it was kind of insulting. The way he talked and interacted seemed like a bad mob movie interpretation. He went from tough guy to crying his eyes out in a paragraph. The situation with his family was brief and not really believable. If his father was as strong as we should believe what happened shouldn't have happened. Aside from all the errors in the book the story line was thin at best. Hopefully the next one will be better.
Profile Image for Tank.
325 reviews16 followers
July 17, 2013
Nice story and good dialogue that is often funny. However, the constant use of "pounded" and "banged" to describe lovemaking was beyond tedious. I can only hope the author's word choice improves as the series progresses. I do love the dynamic between Tree & Reno.
Profile Image for Stephanie Pittman.
249 reviews5 followers
March 2, 2015
Good grief I'm in love!!!!!!

Well this was a gift from a friend and I read it slowly just to get the full taste this man Reno and his boo Tree. If you want to know what had me laughing, cheering and singing this couple praise. Come get the book
Profile Image for Leslie.
149 reviews4 followers
March 24, 2016
This book is such a good read. I didn't know what was going to happen next. Reno, that man is something special and he is tough, loyal, and has a heat that is special. You will love this book.
180 reviews
December 30, 2016
This book was amazing. I fell in love with Reno and Trina in the third chapter. OMG. I just wished I was Trina. Reno falls hard for her. Love it. Love it.!!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Lisa.
12 reviews4 followers
November 20, 2015
interesting read

I was pleasantly surprised and read the book cover to cover in one day. The h and H are believable and likable, despite the wise guy and ghetto language.
529 reviews4 followers
March 2, 2019
A Very Good and Sensual Interracial Romantic Thriller

Remaining The Mob Boss (The Mob Boss Series Book 1) is a very good and sensual interracial romantic thriller that earned a rating of four stars. Dominic Gabrini also known as Reno fell in love with Katrina Marie Hathaway. She was struggling to make a living and he owned a hotel and casino. They had to overcome a lot of obstacles to find their happy marriage. I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to everyone who enjoys reading very good romantic thrillers.
55 reviews
January 17, 2022
The start of Greatness

This is the beginning of a great series. I wait on the next installment of this series like some people wait on their stimulus check 😂 (I thought that was super funny). I recommend this series and the author 100%. I first read this book years ago but didn’t realize I hadn’t left a rating until today when I reread this book. Am telling you every book in this series represents everything a woman wants in a relationship.
126 reviews2 followers
July 14, 2017
Uncertain

How to even begin, Trina was childish and immature. The way her and Reno spoke was something to be desired, a complete turn off. I am not sure what was missing, but the book fell flat! I wish I could get my money back, for a over priced book. It should of been priced at $0.99!!!
.
466 reviews
January 5, 2019
Meeting Your Destiny

This first book in this series introduces you to Reno Gabrini and his family. I love how Reno is depicted in this book, protective, strong but vulnerable. Trina, independent, feisty and gutsy. A defined plot and diverse characters keeps you engaged in the story. I definitely want more.
Profile Image for Jennell Brown.
Author 27 books51 followers
December 6, 2021
This book had me laughing and not because it was funny it was just the way Reno spoke. I'm not American but I'm used to hearing some of these slangs in movies. It fits the Italian stereotype. And the names ..couldn't be more Italian, the author uses Italian names that are used in movies.
The book was okay and I liked it.
Profile Image for Miya Alexander.
179 reviews20 followers
May 8, 2019
✨ 1.7 Stars ✨
It wasn’t the best but the potential was there. Through out the whole book I was like this is going to be a one star read. It was only in the end I was like I guess I’ll make it 1.7 Stars cause it was a cool ending. To that effect I don’t know if I’m going to continue the series.
Profile Image for Nycskpe.
766 reviews
June 3, 2022
🥰🥰🥰

Great stay to a very long series! I'm late to the game here so, I am already familiar with these 2 characters. However, it is great learning how they started and to have the back story.
56 reviews
January 23, 2019
This book got me hook and i cant put it down. Good story, love it
Profile Image for Fern.
753 reviews14 followers
February 11, 2019
I am a little disappointed in the writing style for this author and now I am going to read the sequel to this book (#2). I hope that it will be better.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.