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Ruby Realm Duet #1
An Exclusive Game
Alessa de Luca always gets what she wants.And now she wants me.I'm a federal agent sworn to take down Alessa, the charismatic Mafia princess who runs an illicit empire. But as I infiltrate her exclusive private members’ club in an undercover operation, there’s an undeniable spark between us.Wanting her is dangerous. Falling for her is forbidden. And loving her?Well, that could get me killed.But Alessa seems hell-bent on seducing me. And the closer we get, the closer my team gets to taking her down.The line between attraction and deception is blurring. Then, when a web of lies threatens to destroy us both, I'm forced to make an impossible decision.Will I choose the law?Or love?***A daring FBI agent infiltrates a dazzling empire of secrets, shadows, and seduction ruled by a magnetic Mafia heiress in this enemies to lovers, cat-and-mouse Sapphic Mafia romance.This is a steamy F/F Mafia romance with some dark elements and a lot of angst. Content notes are available on the Copyright page.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 11, 2023
208 people are currently reading
357 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
June 29, 2024
4 Stars
I think Persephone Black has something really great going on with her style of releasing books as a duology. Of course, the story has some weight on whether a reader picks up the second book too and so far (I’ve read 6 of her books now) all books are exciting, addictive and promising.
Alessa’s and Natalie’s story is quite interesting given that it’s surrounded in deceit and games. Alessa’s character has her image/persona down pat. She’s a siren. Juno is an ice queen. Caitlin is fiery. And Natalie? Well, that was the issue for me, I couldn’t pin the character down in my head. There’s what or how she thinks of herself and how Alessa sees her and they are very different sides. Add to that her Natalie Moreau character and I was just at a loss. I’m not sure if that was a conscious effort by the author or just how I interpreted the situation? Anyway, the whole mystery surrounding the character added to the allure.
Undercover stories always make me cringe and feel sick and this one was no exception. It’s still worth reading despite my physical reactions to the topic.
I think Persephone Black has something really great going on with her style of releasing books as a duology. Of course, the story has some weight on whether a reader picks up the second book too and so far (I’ve read 6 of her books now) all books are exciting, addictive and promising.
Alessa’s and Natalie’s story is quite interesting given that it’s surrounded in deceit and games. Alessa’s character has her image/persona down pat. She’s a siren. Juno is an ice queen. Caitlin is fiery. And Natalie? Well, that was the issue for me, I couldn’t pin the character down in my head. There’s what or how she thinks of herself and how Alessa sees her and they are very different sides. Add to that her Natalie Moreau character and I was just at a loss. I’m not sure if that was a conscious effort by the author or just how I interpreted the situation? Anyway, the whole mystery surrounding the character added to the allure.
Undercover stories always make me cringe and feel sick and this one was no exception. It’s still worth reading despite my physical reactions to the topic.
December 2, 2024
This could have been exceptional 😭
frtc
frtc
October 13, 2023
A 10🌟 dear readers 😉
Captivating, rollercoaster emotions with intense 🔥.... Prepare to be blown away from excitement in this fantastic love story. I need to read book 2 and if there will be more ahead. Please P. Black, im hooked.
Captivating, rollercoaster emotions with intense 🔥.... Prepare to be blown away from excitement in this fantastic love story. I need to read book 2 and if there will be more ahead. Please P. Black, im hooked.
November 11, 2025
I am conflicted about this one.
On one hand, I really loved the setup of this story. The concept of an FBI agent going undercover and getting close to her target in order to bust illegal activities only to fall for her is incredibly intriguing and Black does a really good job of creating a suspenseful and tense atmosphere.
The plot was easy to follow and I enjoyed the small twists and subversions that we had through the story, I think where the book really falls flat is the characters, they were just sooooo....Dull. Which equated to the romance also feeling quite dull.
I don't like the trope of someone who is supposedly incredibly good at their job becomes a complete idiot because of thier attraction, and that's kinda what we get with both Natalie and Alessa, they are both interesting characters individually, but together their chemistry feels forced and I feel like story could've gained value if it allowed them to be more witty and intelligent with each other. I wanted them to keep trying to outsmart each other I wanted banter that felt like two smart yet good-hearted minds battling it out, but it was just lacking.
Overall 3 stars 🌟🌟🌟 with a hope that the second book allows for better exploration of their chemistry.
On one hand, I really loved the setup of this story. The concept of an FBI agent going undercover and getting close to her target in order to bust illegal activities only to fall for her is incredibly intriguing and Black does a really good job of creating a suspenseful and tense atmosphere.
The plot was easy to follow and I enjoyed the small twists and subversions that we had through the story, I think where the book really falls flat is the characters, they were just sooooo....Dull. Which equated to the romance also feeling quite dull.
I don't like the trope of someone who is supposedly incredibly good at their job becomes a complete idiot because of thier attraction, and that's kinda what we get with both Natalie and Alessa, they are both interesting characters individually, but together their chemistry feels forced and I feel like story could've gained value if it allowed them to be more witty and intelligent with each other. I wanted them to keep trying to outsmart each other I wanted banter that felt like two smart yet good-hearted minds battling it out, but it was just lacking.
Overall 3 stars 🌟🌟🌟 with a hope that the second book allows for better exploration of their chemistry.
December 1, 2024
Content warnings: alcohol, explicit sex scenes.
Rep: Natalie (MC) is cis, white, and lesbian. Alessa (MC) is cis, white, and lesbian.
This was all kinds of excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot. The narrators of the audio were perfect for this and I have immediately ordered the second audio to continue this series!
Rep: Natalie (MC) is cis, white, and lesbian. Alessa (MC) is cis, white, and lesbian.
This was all kinds of excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot. The narrators of the audio were perfect for this and I have immediately ordered the second audio to continue this series!
August 10, 2025
I really enjoyed this book and only gave it four stars because I found the romance too rushed - especially under the circumstances. But I look forward to seeing how it all plays out in the follow-up!
Additionally, narrator Avery Reid’s recording equipment seems inferior to Quinn Riley’s so every time it switches to her it just doesn’t sound as good. It distracts.
Additionally, narrator Avery Reid’s recording equipment seems inferior to Quinn Riley’s so every time it switches to her it just doesn’t sound as good. It distracts.
March 5, 2024
I have no time to write a review I MUST immediately read the next in this series. *runs to kindle store*
March 29, 2025
Persephone does it again! I love sapphic mafia books and this author does them so well. I love the duets. Highly recommend if you’re new to dark romance and want to dip your toe in!
This books is written in first person with 2x POV’s. Femme/Femme. Undercover. Opposites attract. Forbidden romance. Sapphic Mafia. 2x spicy scenes.
Narrators Quinn Riley and Avery Reid did a fantastic job at this book.
This books is written in first person with 2x POV’s. Femme/Femme. Undercover. Opposites attract. Forbidden romance. Sapphic Mafia. 2x spicy scenes.
Narrators Quinn Riley and Avery Reid did a fantastic job at this book.
July 17, 2025
Ruby Realm Duet
I love these mafia romances by Persephone Black! There is no doubt that I will read them all! The Ruby Realm Duo was awesome - just a few reasons why:
Mafia princess vs. FBI agent
Undeniable attraction
A little cat & mouse play
An undercover operation
Secret dealings/activity to undermind a mafia don
Corruption within the federal agency
I read these two books back to back within a day! So good!
I love these mafia romances by Persephone Black! There is no doubt that I will read them all! The Ruby Realm Duo was awesome - just a few reasons why:
Mafia princess vs. FBI agent
Undeniable attraction
A little cat & mouse play
An undercover operation
Secret dealings/activity to undermind a mafia don
Corruption within the federal agency
I read these two books back to back within a day! So good!
November 7, 2023
Alessa is a businesswoman with a heart of gold and more than a touch of the dominatrix in her soul.
dnf
January 9, 2024DNF @ 35%
I was really really down for this entire concept of a Mafia princess and the FBI agent who is honey trapping her, but was hoping for some sexual tension or sexy banter by this point
I was really really down for this entire concept of a Mafia princess and the FBI agent who is honey trapping her, but was hoping for some sexual tension or sexy banter by this point
August 16, 2025
If there’s one thing a mafia romance will do, it will have you rooting for the mafia
August 23, 2025
The detective in this book is so incompetent, it's an achievement. Three stars for the sex scenes and because Alessa is an interesting character, but I'm being generous because this wasn't very good. I'm not picking up a mafia romance for the sexy mafia lady to earnestly run a soup kitchen.
October 14, 2023
Wow! what a story!
I loved that it connects to Her Mafia’s Bride. Seeing Juno and Catlin warmed my heart! Can’t wait for the next book. This one was so exciting to read and had so much action. The characters, the tension, and the steamy scenes were 🔥🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved that it connects to Her Mafia’s Bride. Seeing Juno and Catlin warmed my heart! Can’t wait for the next book. This one was so exciting to read and had so much action. The characters, the tension, and the steamy scenes were 🔥🌶️🌶️🌶️
October 15, 2023
love it best read in ages!!
I love this and the enigmatic Alessa and Natalie are just wonderful I can’t wait for their next story xxx 💖💖
I love this and the enigmatic Alessa and Natalie are just wonderful I can’t wait for their next story xxx 💖💖
February 17, 2024
I love every damn bit of this book. The story, the characters, the plot, and the twists — was a total “incendiary” as per Alessa de Luca’s words.
I’m not going to lie, I am an avid reader of the mafia books, but when I came across this SAPPHIC MAFIA duet my world literally changed. As a fellow sapphic girl, I didn’t know representation could be read from this kind of trope, and I am never going back.
I’m not going to lie, I am an avid reader of the mafia books, but when I came across this SAPPHIC MAFIA duet my world literally changed. As a fellow sapphic girl, I didn’t know representation could be read from this kind of trope, and I am never going back.
April 18, 2025
I have officially entered my Black Hole Era—and there is no coming back.
Since diving into Persephone Black’s Sapphic Mafia Universe, I’ve been in a state of absolute blissful captivity. These duets—The Underworld Duet, Bianchi Family Duet, Ruby Realm Duet, and Red Rivals Duet—are the kind of dark, deliciously intense, emotionally layered romances that refuse to let go until you’ve consumed every last word. And then? You hit replay.
Each story feels like its own world, richly built with high-stakes tension, devastatingly compelling characters, and a level of sapphic yearning that delivers—hard. Black doesn’t just write mafia romance—she elevates it. There’s blood, betrayal, forced proximity, forbidden love, vengeance, and ICE QUEENS who will freeze your heart before slowly, achingly melting into puddles of longing and love. I mean, YES please.
From the ruthless mercenary who kidnaps a bride on her wedding day, to a street-racing Irish mob daughter begrudgingly falling for her billionaire enemy, to an undercover fed losing herself in the velvet-laced world of a ladies-only mafia nightclub, to two deadly rivals whose passion burns hotter than the bullets flying around them—every duet is an experience.
And let’s talk about the audiobook narrators, because they are next-level phenomenal. Paige Reisenfeld, Aleksi Graves, Avery Reid, Quinn Riley, Megan Wicks, and Allie Shae—these voices are the characters. They don’t just read the story; they breathe it. It’s sultry, cinematic, and completely immersive. I’ve gasped. I’ve clutched my imaginary pearls. I’ve stared into space mid-scene wondering how I’ll recover (spoiler: I haven’t).
The steam? STEAMING. The sapphics? SAPPHICING. The suspense? Suspending.
These duets are gripping, intoxicating, and—quite frankly—addictive as hell.
What I love most is how Persephone Black crafts these complex women—ruthless yet vulnerable, loyal yet fractured, terrifying yet so damn lovable. The romance always lands with deep emotional payoff. The slow burns burn. The character arcs arc. The tension? Chef’s kiss.
I haven’t binge-read (or binge-listened) an author like this in a long time, and I truly cannot stop myself. This universe has swallowed me whole and I’m not asking for rescue. If you’re even remotely into sapphic romance, mafia drama, or morally grey women who love hard and fight harder—start here.
10/10. No notes. Only obsession.
GIMME MOOOOOOREEEEEE!!!!!
Since diving into Persephone Black’s Sapphic Mafia Universe, I’ve been in a state of absolute blissful captivity. These duets—The Underworld Duet, Bianchi Family Duet, Ruby Realm Duet, and Red Rivals Duet—are the kind of dark, deliciously intense, emotionally layered romances that refuse to let go until you’ve consumed every last word. And then? You hit replay.
Each story feels like its own world, richly built with high-stakes tension, devastatingly compelling characters, and a level of sapphic yearning that delivers—hard. Black doesn’t just write mafia romance—she elevates it. There’s blood, betrayal, forced proximity, forbidden love, vengeance, and ICE QUEENS who will freeze your heart before slowly, achingly melting into puddles of longing and love. I mean, YES please.
From the ruthless mercenary who kidnaps a bride on her wedding day, to a street-racing Irish mob daughter begrudgingly falling for her billionaire enemy, to an undercover fed losing herself in the velvet-laced world of a ladies-only mafia nightclub, to two deadly rivals whose passion burns hotter than the bullets flying around them—every duet is an experience.
And let’s talk about the audiobook narrators, because they are next-level phenomenal. Paige Reisenfeld, Aleksi Graves, Avery Reid, Quinn Riley, Megan Wicks, and Allie Shae—these voices are the characters. They don’t just read the story; they breathe it. It’s sultry, cinematic, and completely immersive. I’ve gasped. I’ve clutched my imaginary pearls. I’ve stared into space mid-scene wondering how I’ll recover (spoiler: I haven’t).
The steam? STEAMING. The sapphics? SAPPHICING. The suspense? Suspending.
These duets are gripping, intoxicating, and—quite frankly—addictive as hell.
What I love most is how Persephone Black crafts these complex women—ruthless yet vulnerable, loyal yet fractured, terrifying yet so damn lovable. The romance always lands with deep emotional payoff. The slow burns burn. The character arcs arc. The tension? Chef’s kiss.
I haven’t binge-read (or binge-listened) an author like this in a long time, and I truly cannot stop myself. This universe has swallowed me whole and I’m not asking for rescue. If you’re even remotely into sapphic romance, mafia drama, or morally grey women who love hard and fight harder—start here.
10/10. No notes. Only obsession.
GIMME MOOOOOOREEEEEE!!!!!
October 19, 2023
Alessa is a Mafia princess who runs an exclusive all-women club with a hidden gambling operation. Natalie is an undercover FBI agent posing as an heiress in an effort to get close enough to Alessa to uncover the criminal aspects of her operation. Neither expects feelings.
This is the first book in a two-book series, with the resolution (HEA) coming in the yet-to-be-published second book. It's similar in that respect to the first two Mafia books this author has published.
I was very engaged in the book to try to figure out how Natalie was going to reconcile her feelings for Alessa with her law enforcement mission. The author does a good job of revealing some of the grayer areas of Alessa's operation that muddies Natalie's very black and white vision of good and evil.
Still, Natalie herself while an interesting character doesn't quite convince us why Alessa is willing to abandon her no-strings player life for this woman.
This is the first book in a two-book series, with the resolution (HEA) coming in the yet-to-be-published second book. It's similar in that respect to the first two Mafia books this author has published.
I was very engaged in the book to try to figure out how Natalie was going to reconcile her feelings for Alessa with her law enforcement mission. The author does a good job of revealing some of the grayer areas of Alessa's operation that muddies Natalie's very black and white vision of good and evil.
Still, Natalie herself while an interesting character doesn't quite convince us why Alessa is willing to abandon her no-strings player life for this woman.
July 11, 2024
Very hot and very interesting mystery built up between an FBI agent on the biggest case of her life, who genuinely begins to feel stirrings of a familiarity and even love for this big bad mafia girl, Alessa De Luca. Powerful, seductive, enticing.
Just what the FBI agent can't get herself into. Difficult position for Alessa as well when she finally starts questioning the truth in this mystery woman's presence.
The ending was predictable at least a little, but I thought it wasn't far from the truth.
Now, the other truth is that while they could get her on charges for money laundering and illegal gambling, if she had papers to run and operate that with mafia support, she may very well and easily get off all the charges. It has happened. Now let's see what the second and final is all about.
Just what the FBI agent can't get herself into. Difficult position for Alessa as well when she finally starts questioning the truth in this mystery woman's presence.
The ending was predictable at least a little, but I thought it wasn't far from the truth.
Now, the other truth is that while they could get her on charges for money laundering and illegal gambling, if she had papers to run and operate that with mafia support, she may very well and easily get off all the charges. It has happened. Now let's see what the second and final is all about.
December 7, 2024
I love the story and I love Alessas character, but as someone mentioned before I didn't get to know Natalie at all. Also she seems way to insecure to be an undercover agent for such a mission. I guess. The steamy scenes didn't impress me much. It feels like pulled from a collection of sentences that I have read before and I didn't feel as if there is an emotional passionate connection between them. I wish them getting together would have been edged out a little but to make it hotter. The swallen language usenof Alessa feels a little bit too cliché for me and takes away from her personality. I loved it anyways and am excited to continue with Part two right now.
June 3, 2024
pretty good addition
A pretty good addition to this universe Persephone has created. Not my favorite per se but still good. Alessa and Natalie were cute but the way they fell in love kinda…suspended belief for me? Particularly on Natalie’s part…which kinda made it a miss for me. I understand insta love and fate and all of that…but with an FBI agent who’s supposed to be a goodie two shoes I expected a bit more struggle. That being said it was a pretty short book so maybe that’s why. Looking forward for a redemption arc and reading the second book tho
A pretty good addition to this universe Persephone has created. Not my favorite per se but still good. Alessa and Natalie were cute but the way they fell in love kinda…suspended belief for me? Particularly on Natalie’s part…which kinda made it a miss for me. I understand insta love and fate and all of that…but with an FBI agent who’s supposed to be a goodie two shoes I expected a bit more struggle. That being said it was a pretty short book so maybe that’s why. Looking forward for a redemption arc and reading the second book tho
October 26, 2023
Thrilling
Perceptions of evil and good can often be misconstrued to what social conditions that are taught to us by laws or other people’s preconceived notions of it. This is mostly how we measure good and evil. Although the most authentic way we should view good / evil is through acts in which we behave as human beings. Are we acting out of kindness, empathy, deceit or greed? And when love is on the line, how will you perceive that person that could be your HEA?
Perceptions of evil and good can often be misconstrued to what social conditions that are taught to us by laws or other people’s preconceived notions of it. This is mostly how we measure good and evil. Although the most authentic way we should view good / evil is through acts in which we behave as human beings. Are we acting out of kindness, empathy, deceit or greed? And when love is on the line, how will you perceive that person that could be your HEA?
February 19, 2024
Good Mafia book
Alessa is trying to make her club Ruby Realm a place that is safe but the illegal gambling is hidden so nobody know but the members of the club. She also helps saves women that are forced into trafficking and helps at the soup kitchen. Mafia by blood and trying to making a living. Natalie is an FBI agent that wants a promotion and uses her sexuality to get her there. But after she meets Alessa the lines blurred. She wants her but can't not when thing go bad.
Alessa is trying to make her club Ruby Realm a place that is safe but the illegal gambling is hidden so nobody know but the members of the club. She also helps saves women that are forced into trafficking and helps at the soup kitchen. Mafia by blood and trying to making a living. Natalie is an FBI agent that wants a promotion and uses her sexuality to get her there. But after she meets Alessa the lines blurred. She wants her but can't not when thing go bad.
August 16, 2024
Well I picked this up on a whim and I was not disappointed, I flew through it in less than 2 days and I need to dive into the sequel right away.
I really liked both Natalie and Alessa's characters although I developed a particular soft spot for Natalie. I really enjoyed the slow burn between them that just kept building until sparks flew. I quite enjoyed Natalie's struggle with the shades of grey morality she was forced to reckon with, I cant wait to see how things play out in book 2.
I really liked both Natalie and Alessa's characters although I developed a particular soft spot for Natalie. I really enjoyed the slow burn between them that just kept building until sparks flew. I quite enjoyed Natalie's struggle with the shades of grey morality she was forced to reckon with, I cant wait to see how things play out in book 2.
May 13, 2025
Really enjoyed this read. Alessa is so much more than she’s portrayed in Her Mafia Bride series. The ending of this book broke me a little but thankfully book 2 finishes the story off perfectly for readers. Definitely worth reading but I’d recommend doing this book alongside A Dangerous Prize to ensure you make the most of the storyline.
June 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
An Exclusive Game" is a forbidden romance that explores the murky line between right and wrong. The chemistry between Alessa and Natalie is electric and only intensifies as the story unfolds. Quinn Riley and Avery Reid deliver outstanding narration, bringing a rich, sultry emotion to every scene. I look forward to reading book 2!
An Exclusive Game" is a forbidden romance that explores the murky line between right and wrong. The chemistry between Alessa and Natalie is electric and only intensifies as the story unfolds. Quinn Riley and Avery Reid deliver outstanding narration, bringing a rich, sultry emotion to every scene. I look forward to reading book 2!
October 13, 2025
I didn’t even know this was one of my favorite genres until I stumbled upon this masterpiece. What stood out the most to me was how Alessa manages to be both incredibly strong and beautifully soft at the same time — she’s easily one of my favorite sapphic characters ever. The way the story unfolds between her and Natalie is so well written and addictive, it left me wanting more.
December 14, 2025
4/5
Alessa is such a fun character! She acts like a social butterfly for her business and to hide her looniness. Natalie has a strong sense of justice but that starts to shift or to be redefined as she gets to know Alessa and her work more and more.
Sometimes I wonder why not combine the 2 books in the series into 1 so that I don't need to go get another book haha!
Alessa is such a fun character! She acts like a social butterfly for her business and to hide her looniness. Natalie has a strong sense of justice but that starts to shift or to be redefined as she gets to know Alessa and her work more and more.
Sometimes I wonder why not combine the 2 books in the series into 1 so that I don't need to go get another book haha!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews