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Inked
Leaving violence and darkness behind, Nicolas has built a new life away from his Mafia family. He has fought for his freedom and has no intention of going back, content with his life as a tattoo artist surrounded by his chosen family.
Headstrong, motivated, tomboy Skylar has given up her lifelong dream of being a doctor and is now relegated to the role of a wealthy businessman's future trophy wife. But beneath the glamorous surface lies a chilling truth that binds her to a monster.
When chance throws the two of them together, Nicolas discovers the danger Skylar's exposed to, and the past comes to exact its toll.
Torn between his hard-won freedom and the woman who unknowingly captured his heart, Nicolas faces a brutal choice.
Headstrong, motivated, tomboy Skylar has given up her lifelong dream of being a doctor and is now relegated to the role of a wealthy businessman's future trophy wife. But beneath the glamorous surface lies a chilling truth that binds her to a monster.
When chance throws the two of them together, Nicolas discovers the danger Skylar's exposed to, and the past comes to exact its toll.
Torn between his hard-won freedom and the woman who unknowingly captured his heart, Nicolas faces a brutal choice.
- GenresMafia Romance
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2023
9 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Sienna Zini
26 books45 followersHi there!
I'm Sienna, and when I'm not writing spicy happily-ever-afters, you might find me reading, whipping up a delicious meal, reveling in the beauty of nature, or exploring new corners of the world.
After years spent crunching numbers and growing my accounting company, always weaving stories in my head, I finally took the leap in 2022 and pursued my lifelong dream of publishing my first book.
What fuels my passion? A deep love for a good story and the many characters who take root in my mind, demanding their tales be told.
The joy of bringing heartwarming love stories to life keeps me constantly creating, so stay tuned for what's coming next!
I'm Sienna, and when I'm not writing spicy happily-ever-afters, you might find me reading, whipping up a delicious meal, reveling in the beauty of nature, or exploring new corners of the world.
After years spent crunching numbers and growing my accounting company, always weaving stories in my head, I finally took the leap in 2022 and pursued my lifelong dream of publishing my first book.
What fuels my passion? A deep love for a good story and the many characters who take root in my mind, demanding their tales be told.
The joy of bringing heartwarming love stories to life keeps me constantly creating, so stay tuned for what's coming next!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 27, 2023
My thoughts- This book is not what I expected from reading the summary. It is about a son of a mafia boss. He doesn't want to be involved in the family business, but he gets pulled back in when he sees a girl that needs help escaping her mafia-associated fiance. The chemistry between Nick and Skylar was palpable, but it was almost insta-love, even though they had met as children. To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect, as this is not my usual genre, but I am glad that I gave it a shot, but this is not a re-read for me. There is a huge cliffhanger….so prepare yourself to want to go immediately into the next book, which isn’t out until February 2024. I would say it was a solid 3.5/5, since I am not a mafia trope lover. If mafia romances and revenge are your trope, definitely give this a try.
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***I received this book in exchange for an honest review. It will be released on October 31.***
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***I received this book in exchange for an honest review. It will be released on October 31.***
October 24, 2023
It's a mafia romance, but the scenes of violence aren't graphically detailed. The book is told from two different POV, and it's not made clear at the beginning of each chapter which POV it is, which was sometimes confusing.
I really enjoyed this book. I had trouble putting it down and finished it without realizing it. I was shocked when I saw it was the last page! Even though the author, Sienna, had warned me. I can't wait for book 2!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I really enjoyed this book. I had trouble putting it down and finished it without realizing it. I was shocked when I saw it was the last page! Even though the author, Sienna, had warned me. I can't wait for book 2!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
October 18, 2023
This book tells a fascinating love story between the two young MCs, each with their own POV, beautifully told.
The reader is captivated not only by the plot, which is eventful as expected in a mafia scenario, but also by Nicolas and Skylar's past which is revealed as the chapters progress.
At the center of the story there are certainly the two MCs, whose growth is fascinating to follow. But their environment is also well outlined, and this helps to make the story solid and credible.
I particularly liked how well the book conveyed Nick's difficulties in getting out of the mafia world. Nick is a complex character, relentless both in the violence that he is forced to commit and in his dedication to pursuing Skylar's good. Sky is initially portrayed as shy and plain (without spoilers I can say that it is because of the situation he is experiencing). As the book progresses, though, it becomes apparent that she is a strong and resilient woman.
The underlying theme is masterfully conveyed and revealed right from the title: the tattoo (i.e. beauty) that covers the scar (i.e. the memory of painful experiences).
I highly recommend reading Inked and I look forward to the book that will conclude the story!
The reader is captivated not only by the plot, which is eventful as expected in a mafia scenario, but also by Nicolas and Skylar's past which is revealed as the chapters progress.
At the center of the story there are certainly the two MCs, whose growth is fascinating to follow. But their environment is also well outlined, and this helps to make the story solid and credible.
I particularly liked how well the book conveyed Nick's difficulties in getting out of the mafia world. Nick is a complex character, relentless both in the violence that he is forced to commit and in his dedication to pursuing Skylar's good. Sky is initially portrayed as shy and plain (without spoilers I can say that it is because of the situation he is experiencing). As the book progresses, though, it becomes apparent that she is a strong and resilient woman.
The underlying theme is masterfully conveyed and revealed right from the title: the tattoo (i.e. beauty) that covers the scar (i.e. the memory of painful experiences).
I highly recommend reading Inked and I look forward to the book that will conclude the story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2023
I really enjoyed this story! I feel like this is a 4.5 star read after finishing this book so I decided on 4! Even though the things I liked outweighed anything I didn’t I think 4 stars fits best but it’s a 4.5!
The main tropes in this book are mafia and found family. I really liked the dynamic between the two main characters and how they decided to tell their story. They both had baggage and had to figure out how they fit together.
I do feel like the first half of the book was a lot slower than the second. I found myself putting it down after finishing a chapter. I think so much time had passed with the characters during the first half of the book and at the beginning of the next chapter I would get a little confused until I got further into the next chapter and realized what was going on.
Otherwise I liked what I read, the story itself kept me interested wanting to know what would happen next, and that ending! I am in shock and didn’t really see that outcome coming! I am excited to read the second book in the duology!
This book was given as an eARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to read your book!
The main tropes in this book are mafia and found family. I really liked the dynamic between the two main characters and how they decided to tell their story. They both had baggage and had to figure out how they fit together.
I do feel like the first half of the book was a lot slower than the second. I found myself putting it down after finishing a chapter. I think so much time had passed with the characters during the first half of the book and at the beginning of the next chapter I would get a little confused until I got further into the next chapter and realized what was going on.
Otherwise I liked what I read, the story itself kept me interested wanting to know what would happen next, and that ending! I am in shock and didn’t really see that outcome coming! I am excited to read the second book in the duology!
This book was given as an eARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to read your book!
November 20, 2023
Dark mafia, arranged marriage, romance, and explicit and detailed violence (not recommended if these scenes are triggers for you). I completed reading this book last week and took some time to compose this review because the book left me with conflicting thoughts. I enjoyed the story and the main characters, and the secondary characters, both in their construction and development, along with the suspense and tension in many scenes, left me breathless. I was shocked by the ending. The dual point of view was essential for understanding the perspectives of both protagonists, but I found it confusing at times; the distinction was not always clear, and one had to continue reading to discern who was speaking. However, I was left with the feeling that something is missing. I am very curious to read the sequel to the book.
I received this book as an ARC (Advanced Reader's Copy), and I'm delighted to share my honest thoughts about it.
I received this book as an ARC (Advanced Reader's Copy), and I'm delighted to share my honest thoughts about it.
February 3, 2024
First I have to say that I’m not sure if this was a translation or what but there were definitely mistakes that could be caught in editing, mainly grammar/phrasing which is the only reason it only got 4 stars from me, that being said the story itself was so good I didn’t really mind! This was a whirlwind of emotions. It had me sucked in from the very beginning. Nicolas' struggle with who he is, who his family is (both his bio-family and his 'real' family) his self hatred. It was dark and gritty and emotional. Skylar was an amazing character too, even after everything she had been through- her determination to help Nicolas, to be by his side... their love is so beautiful. That ending though- honestly I LOVE a good cliffhanger but thank goodness I don't have long to wait for the next one because I have got to know what's going on! Definitely looking forward to book two!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2024
I am not into mafia literature, but I do like a good romance, which is why I got interested in this book. I like that it has a bit of everything: romance and suspense. It is very readable, and the first person POV makes it interesting to follow. The author gets into the head of her characters and it's easy to identify with them.
The plot itself is not one you can easily predict, so Sienna has done a great job. I struggled to get some of the ins and outs of what exactly is going on but that was totally on me, as I tried to read when I wasn't in top form and struggled to keep up with the mafia characters. For me, the main interest is the romance side of the story, but if you are into mafia stories, you will surely get the plot better than me. I just have no experience in those books.
I like the psychology of the characters; they are well caught and realistic. Great book!
The plot itself is not one you can easily predict, so Sienna has done a great job. I struggled to get some of the ins and outs of what exactly is going on but that was totally on me, as I tried to read when I wasn't in top form and struggled to keep up with the mafia characters. For me, the main interest is the romance side of the story, but if you are into mafia stories, you will surely get the plot better than me. I just have no experience in those books.
I like the psychology of the characters; they are well caught and realistic. Great book!
October 16, 2023
Can you ever really outrun your past? Inked follows the story of Nicolas and Skylar, who are both scarred by troubled circumstances. Their journey is full of emotional growth and self acceptance. This book kept me on my toes with all of its twists and turns! If you like a little suspense with your mafia romance, this is the book for you! Inked does end on a cliffhanger. Check trigger warnings ⚠️ before reading.
Read if you love:
▪️Found families
▪️Self discovery
▪️Mafia romance
▪️Protective MMCs
Genre/type: Mafia romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3.5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Series or standalone: First book in a duet
Tropes or themes: Mafia, Touch Her and Die, Found Family, Cliffhanger, Morally Grey MMC
Read if you love:
▪️Found families
▪️Self discovery
▪️Mafia romance
▪️Protective MMCs
Genre/type: Mafia romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3.5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Series or standalone: First book in a duet
Tropes or themes: Mafia, Touch Her and Die, Found Family, Cliffhanger, Morally Grey MMC
November 11, 2023
All through this wonderful story, Nicolas and Skylar have to grapple with their desires and the consequences of their actions. Nick has fought hard and has sacrificed so much to break free from his family and the dark name and past he carries, but when he meets Skylar and he discovers the secrets she is keeping and the terrible sacrifice she is about to make, he is willing to do anything in his power to save her and keep her safe.
This story will stick with you long after its ending (and be warned, the end is shocking and will make you beg for more). It is an emotionally intense read, where the lines between right and wrong get constantly challenged. The characters are complex, fiercely protective, authentic and real. There is a beautiful balance between the mafia setting and plot and the spicy chemistry and romance. Must read!
November 11, 2023
What a great start to this series. You just need to keep in mind that it appears to be translated from another language so some of the translation is probably word for word and might not make immediate sense. But once you get past that and get deeper into the novel you can appreciate the character development. One thing I noticed was he often refers to himself as stupid or a loser, and it’s a little repetitive. But I did truly enjoy the banter and chemistry between the two main characters. It totally gave me the “best friends little sister” vibes ever though she is not. It ends in a cliffhanger and I cannot wait to see what happens next!
September 25, 2023
Inked is a mafia redeemed novel. I have to be honest, I didn't think I would like it! I don't like redemption when it come to my book mafia men but Sienna gives a really interesting turn on the story.
The abuse Skylar suffered marks a big part of her relationship with the other characters. Moreover the same could be said of Nicolas
There is something that has been bugging me though: what happened with Gabe!?
And the ending! My god! That cliffhanger...I'm desperately waiting for the next book!
I was given this ARC for providing an honest review
The abuse Skylar suffered marks a big part of her relationship with the other characters. Moreover the same could be said of Nicolas
There is something that has been bugging me though: what happened with Gabe!?
And the ending! My god! That cliffhanger...I'm desperately waiting for the next book!
I was given this ARC for providing an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2023
This is a story of love between two young MC's each with their own POV. You will be captivated by the plot which is eventful which you can and should expect with a mafia story. This is about the son of a mafia boss and he doesn't want to be involved in the family buisness, but he gets pulled in when he sees a damsal in distress. Skylar and Nick had chemistry which you could feel flying off the pages.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2023
I loved this book!
The chemistry between the main characters sizzles off the pages, adding depth and emotion to the romance. The backdrop of the mafia world adds an element of danger and intrigue, creating a perfect blend of love and suspense.
I highly recommend this book to all romance and suspense fans—it's a captivating and memorable read that will stay with you long after you've finished it.
The chemistry between the main characters sizzles off the pages, adding depth and emotion to the romance. The backdrop of the mafia world adds an element of danger and intrigue, creating a perfect blend of love and suspense.
I highly recommend this book to all romance and suspense fans—it's a captivating and memorable read that will stay with you long after you've finished it.
February 3, 2024
★★★★★/★★★★★
This story will take you on an emotional roller coaster. I loved seeing Skylar and Nicolas’ story unfold. Sienna Zini did an amazing job building these characters and the story. I was intrigued and wanting to know more throughout the whole story. I loved getting to see characters that weren’t perfect and had flaws and trauma which was written beautifully. Getting to see their inner conflict and how that ultimately helps bring them together and better understand each other.
This story will take you on an emotional roller coaster. I loved seeing Skylar and Nicolas’ story unfold. Sienna Zini did an amazing job building these characters and the story. I was intrigued and wanting to know more throughout the whole story. I loved getting to see characters that weren’t perfect and had flaws and trauma which was written beautifully. Getting to see their inner conflict and how that ultimately helps bring them together and better understand each other.
February 6, 2024
If you are looking for a Mafia romance with an unusual story this is the book to read. I am not one to read books with cliff hangers. In fact I do my best to avoid them at all costs. But for some reason, I started reading this book, which kept me intrigued until the end. I have already got the second book of this series Engraved. This is definitely a book with original plot twists so it will keep you on your toes. Kudos to the author for coming up with this story line.
March 6, 2024
Escaping his father’s Mafia family is more difficult than Nick thought. He thinks he’s found a way. But like that famous line from the Godfather:
Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.
This book is a page turner. and Sienna Zini deserves a wide audience.
Inked has romance, intrigue, and is unputdownable. It’s the second book in the past week that I read in a matter of days. Inked is so engaging that I picked up the sequel and am now thirty pages into Engraved.
Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.
This book is a page turner. and Sienna Zini deserves a wide audience.
Inked has romance, intrigue, and is unputdownable. It’s the second book in the past week that I read in a matter of days. Inked is so engaging that I picked up the sequel and am now thirty pages into Engraved.
March 22, 2024
4 STARS FOR INKED!
“I’ll be the one to make your scars disappear if you want me to, but you have to take control here. It’s you; you’re the one who decides whether to take me. Trust me.”
“I have no idea of what I am doing, Nick. I don’t…”
“You know what you want. Listen to your body and to your heart.”
Perfect mix of sweet, spicy & fun!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 2 is definitely on my next reading radar!
“I’ll be the one to make your scars disappear if you want me to, but you have to take control here. It’s you; you’re the one who decides whether to take me. Trust me.”
“I have no idea of what I am doing, Nick. I don’t…”
“You know what you want. Listen to your body and to your heart.”
Perfect mix of sweet, spicy & fun!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 2 is definitely on my next reading radar!
November 14, 2023
This book has a lot of emotion in it. I really enjoyed the story line - it was a twist on an arranged marriage/mafia type book and I was here for it. I loved that FMC was such a strong woman - she went through so much. I loved the tenderness of the MMC that he tried to hide. This book started the journey and I am excited to see where it ends up in the next one.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 20, 2024
I didn’t think the summary of this book matched the book really well, but overall I really liked it! There is a cliffhanger at the end so if you read this, you’re going to have to read the next one right after!!! I like the modus trope, I’ve never read one before so this was a first for me!
I received this book, for an honest review and I would definitely recommend it!
I received this book, for an honest review and I would definitely recommend it!
March 24, 2024
Roller coaster
I love this book. The way it was written, the way it kept me on my toes, the way the characters grow and suffer together just to find the one thing they need.
Engraved is next on my list, and if anybody is reading this review, I urge you to read this book and its sequel, too. It's nothing like anything I've read before.
I love this book. The way it was written, the way it kept me on my toes, the way the characters grow and suffer together just to find the one thing they need.
Engraved is next on my list, and if anybody is reading this review, I urge you to read this book and its sequel, too. It's nothing like anything I've read before.
October 15, 2023
I loved this this book puts a twist on your typical mafia romance story! There’s a little steam but the story builds up to it slowly. The ending killed me I can’t wait for the next book to find out what comes next!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book for an honest review*
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book for an honest review*
October 24, 2023
Inked is an interesting twist on mafia romance and best friend's brother that I really enjoyed. Nick and Sky are the kind of couple you find yourself rooting for from the start. Reader beware, there is a cliffhanger ending, so be prepared to wait for the second book! 👀
November 18, 2023
Lord can I say that I love this book! Definitely one of my favorite books I have read. Recommend it!
I cried when he had to go back into the life that he worked so hard for the stay away just for her! Ehhh I love it and so will you! 🩵
I cried when he had to go back into the life that he worked so hard for the stay away just for her! Ehhh I love it and so will you! 🩵
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2024
Wow! What did I get myself into? Sienna’s world of mafia and love is incredible! The characters are worth falling for and the story is a rollercoaster of emotion and action!
Ready for book 2! Counting down the days!
Ready for book 2! Counting down the days!
January 25, 2024
I wasn’t prepared for how engaging I would find this book. I tore through it, reading every spare minute I could find. I’m so glad the author has asked me to be an ARC reader for Book 2–I get to dive right in!
May 18, 2024
This is my first time reading a mobster romance, and I’m so glad this was the book that introduced me to this genre. The main characters are strong in diffident ways and manage to be each others strength. Definitely kept me engaged and running to get the sequel.
October 4, 2023
This is a compulsively readable story of family, love, loss and grief, full of emotion, heartbreaks and many surprises, with a fine characterisation and writing. I loved it.
January 26, 2024
This was pretty good!! I don’t typically read Mafia based books but. It was well written and left me hanging on for more
February 10, 2024
It was a hard book to get drawn into but once you get more into it, it's great. I'm very glad I didn't stop reading it. It is a mafia story but it has a little bit of other plots to it.
February 9, 2024
Mafia romance described from 2 POv and honestly absolutely amazing the writing is brilliant just couldn't put it down
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews