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The Casella Brothers #1
The Casella King
Ezra
They call me King, but it’s just the mask I wear to conceal the true evil behind it. If I wasn’t born into this life, the life of bloodshed and murder, I’m afraid there wouldn’t be anything on Earth that could satiate my thirst. Not for the thrill that comes from killing a man, no. That doesn’t last long. Nothing could fill the void where I store countless bodies and souls, only to thirst for something more. To feel something other than emptiness.
Its my turn to continue the Casella bloodline, and I will do it my way. Striking a deal with her was the first part of my plan to get my family off my back, but she doesn't know that I plan to keep her. Even if she begs me to let her go, I will make her see just how much she belongs in my world.
Aries
I thought the only evil in my life would be my drunk father, but it turns out, there is something darker that lies in wait for me. Meeting Ezra was the easiest part of my story, its everything that came after that was difficult. He is everything they say he is and more, but there is something about the way he looks at me, the way he only sees me, that terrifies me.
They say everyone has their own demons that they wrestle with daily, but Ezra doesn’t. He embraces them and treats them like his friends. What scares me the most is how the darkness within me awakens every time he’s near, like his abyss snuffs out the light within me. It spreads into my veins, consuming me, until I no longer know who I am without him.
Please note, this is a dark romance book. Please read trigger warnings on authors website before diving in!
They call me King, but it’s just the mask I wear to conceal the true evil behind it. If I wasn’t born into this life, the life of bloodshed and murder, I’m afraid there wouldn’t be anything on Earth that could satiate my thirst. Not for the thrill that comes from killing a man, no. That doesn’t last long. Nothing could fill the void where I store countless bodies and souls, only to thirst for something more. To feel something other than emptiness.
Its my turn to continue the Casella bloodline, and I will do it my way. Striking a deal with her was the first part of my plan to get my family off my back, but she doesn't know that I plan to keep her. Even if she begs me to let her go, I will make her see just how much she belongs in my world.
Aries
I thought the only evil in my life would be my drunk father, but it turns out, there is something darker that lies in wait for me. Meeting Ezra was the easiest part of my story, its everything that came after that was difficult. He is everything they say he is and more, but there is something about the way he looks at me, the way he only sees me, that terrifies me.
They say everyone has their own demons that they wrestle with daily, but Ezra doesn’t. He embraces them and treats them like his friends. What scares me the most is how the darkness within me awakens every time he’s near, like his abyss snuffs out the light within me. It spreads into my veins, consuming me, until I no longer know who I am without him.
Please note, this is a dark romance book. Please read trigger warnings on authors website before diving in!
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 27, 2024
92 people are currently reading
1063 people want to read
About the author
C.B. Frey
5 books87 followersC.B. Frey is a dark romance author from Sydney and the author of The Casella Brothers series.
She thrives in the dark, finding beauty in the twisted and forbidden. She writes dark romance with a raw edge, filled with brooding villains and love that burns with toxic obsession. Her readers have dubbed her characters as messy, flawed and irresistibly compelling.
She thrives in the dark, finding beauty in the twisted and forbidden. She writes dark romance with a raw edge, filled with brooding villains and love that burns with toxic obsession. Her readers have dubbed her characters as messy, flawed and irresistibly compelling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
July 29, 2024
"My skin burns when you are not near, and my eyes search only for you in a sea of people. you drive me fucking crazy that there is no room for me to think about anything else. you occupy every inch inside my brain, like a migraine rattling my mind until I give in, except I welcome it. I crave it..... I crave you."
Do you want more? you need to read 'The Casella King' bt C.B. Frey
This book if flipping amazing. A marriage deal, forced proximity, spice, and a Mafia God! What more do you need?
Please read trigger warnings before wanting to read
Do you want more? you need to read 'The Casella King' bt C.B. Frey
This book if flipping amazing. A marriage deal, forced proximity, spice, and a Mafia God! What more do you need?
Please read trigger warnings before wanting to read
March 9, 2024
Now this is what a Mafia romance should be!! Fake/forced marriage, power, blood, murder, death, family! I cannot get over how much this book draws you in! I didn't want to put it down, but at the same time I for sure did not want it to end. If you love dark romances this book is for you. As always make sure you know your triggers before picking up this book as it wont be for everyone. However I will recommend it until I am blue in the face!!
February 28, 2024
“Whilst whilst whilst whilst” he stated in a husky voice.
July 17, 2024
Look the first 200 pages was good then they went and complicated it and I got lost
The spice level was 🌶️🌶️🌶️
And he’s actually crazy like insane for her but they kinda lost me after that 🫣
The spice level was 🌶️🌶️🌶️
And he’s actually crazy like insane for her but they kinda lost me after that 🫣
February 28, 2024
OMG soooo easily a 5 star read!
C.B Frey has outdone herself with this steamy mafia romance 🥵🔥
The story follows a wedding planner named Aries who is struggling with the weight of supporting her alcoholic father & a mafia boss Ezra who is trying to find his ground as the new leader and king after his father’s death at the hands of the enemy.
The two strike up a deal to benefit the both of them and though their plan was to keep things strictly professional, they quickly learn that it’s not so easy! 😏 The two of them are learning that though they’re from two different walks of life, they’re not so different after all…
If you’re anything like me you’ll fall in love with Ezra’s character very quickly. And just like Airies, it’s easy to become enticed with the power that comes from knowing that a man will do ANYTHING for you but bows to nobody else 😍
This book is full of spice, emotion, thrill & passion. Highly recommended for those who are fans of ‘touch her and you die’ & marriage of convenience tropes! 💀❤️
It’s a wild ride and one you’ll enjoy 😉
C.B Frey has outdone herself with this steamy mafia romance 🥵🔥
The story follows a wedding planner named Aries who is struggling with the weight of supporting her alcoholic father & a mafia boss Ezra who is trying to find his ground as the new leader and king after his father’s death at the hands of the enemy.
The two strike up a deal to benefit the both of them and though their plan was to keep things strictly professional, they quickly learn that it’s not so easy! 😏 The two of them are learning that though they’re from two different walks of life, they’re not so different after all…
If you’re anything like me you’ll fall in love with Ezra’s character very quickly. And just like Airies, it’s easy to become enticed with the power that comes from knowing that a man will do ANYTHING for you but bows to nobody else 😍
This book is full of spice, emotion, thrill & passion. Highly recommended for those who are fans of ‘touch her and you die’ & marriage of convenience tropes! 💀❤️
It’s a wild ride and one you’ll enjoy 😉
February 28, 2024
Ezra Ezra Ezra... Mafia King.
Wow.
This book was well executed! Every chapter, every page, every twist, spice, and thrill.
The chemistry between Aries & Ezra was fire! The spice holy heck the spice Ezra is a dominant and loves to watch Aries Beg!
The plot twist, the heart break, the cliff hangers, Every page has you turning to the next to just finish it!
I think everything in the book tied in together perfectly, no detail was left out or over indulged. The s³x scenes were heated and hot!!
His Mama I could just picture her constantly feeding her boys food!
This book if definitely my top 5 mafia dark romance books for 2024!!!
You have outdone yourself C.
If you haven't read her other book "the diverge" I consider you add to your TBR list! It's not a dark romance but it will have your heart shattered into pieces and put back together again I cried so much and fell in love with that book too!
Ugh I need some Erza in my bed
Wow.
This book was well executed! Every chapter, every page, every twist, spice, and thrill.
The chemistry between Aries & Ezra was fire! The spice holy heck the spice Ezra is a dominant and loves to watch Aries Beg!
The plot twist, the heart break, the cliff hangers, Every page has you turning to the next to just finish it!
I think everything in the book tied in together perfectly, no detail was left out or over indulged. The s³x scenes were heated and hot!!
His Mama I could just picture her constantly feeding her boys food!
This book if definitely my top 5 mafia dark romance books for 2024!!!
You have outdone yourself C.
If you haven't read her other book "the diverge" I consider you add to your TBR list! It's not a dark romance but it will have your heart shattered into pieces and put back together again I cried so much and fell in love with that book too!
Ugh I need some Erza in my bed
February 18, 2024
When a King needs a Queen.
I absolutely love a mafia read and this from CB Frey was just so good!! A deliciously dark MMC and the feisty FMC who agrees to be his.
In this book: Mafia King needing a bride, a Wedding Planner, an arrangement, troubled pasts, brotherly love, falling hard, possessive, proving yourself, touch her & d!e, secrets and hidden cameras!
Ezra, the newly crowned Casella family King is being pressured into continuing the family line, only he’s not interested in who his dear Mama selects. Then Aries catches his attention (or rather her colourful language does) and he’s intrigued. As is she at his… proposal.
This was such a struggle to put this down as it kept me constantly wanting more. The story is well paced with plenty of action and spice and the introduction of some fab side characters to feature in the next book. I cannot wait for Nico’s story!
I absolutely love a mafia read and this from CB Frey was just so good!! A deliciously dark MMC and the feisty FMC who agrees to be his.
In this book: Mafia King needing a bride, a Wedding Planner, an arrangement, troubled pasts, brotherly love, falling hard, possessive, proving yourself, touch her & d!e, secrets and hidden cameras!
Ezra, the newly crowned Casella family King is being pressured into continuing the family line, only he’s not interested in who his dear Mama selects. Then Aries catches his attention (or rather her colourful language does) and he’s intrigued. As is she at his… proposal.
This was such a struggle to put this down as it kept me constantly wanting more. The story is well paced with plenty of action and spice and the introduction of some fab side characters to feature in the next book. I cannot wait for Nico’s story!
March 7, 2024
Okaaaaaaay, the long and short of it… This book will always be in the back of my mind. Ezra’s heart is a wonderful as that man’s mouth. Oof! YES! PLEASE 😮💨
As far as the plot goes, there were quite a few things I did not see coming, that kinda tore me apart for a bit. The emotions the characters expressed, the way they spoke to each other, the push and pull was fantastic! Chefs kiss 🤌🏻
Spice you ask??? There is nothing holy about the way this is written, you want spice…. Here, have a whole lot of juicy material for later 😋
Five star read and then some…tbh, I went back and read it a second time before coming here for a review. I loved the story that much!! 💜💜💜💜💜
As far as the plot goes, there were quite a few things I did not see coming, that kinda tore me apart for a bit. The emotions the characters expressed, the way they spoke to each other, the push and pull was fantastic! Chefs kiss 🤌🏻
Spice you ask??? There is nothing holy about the way this is written, you want spice…. Here, have a whole lot of juicy material for later 😋
Five star read and then some…tbh, I went back and read it a second time before coming here for a review. I loved the story that much!! 💜💜💜💜💜
February 28, 2024
I was entertained, whilst also thinking this is not good.
July 19, 2024
Nothing this author writes will ever disappoint me
Read this if you love unhinged mafia who gives 0 fks .. except when he’s actually fking. He gives a lot then.
Read this if you love unhinged mafia who gives 0 fks .. except when he’s actually fking. He gives a lot then.
February 27, 2024
As the new King of the Casella family, Ezra is expected to take a wife, something he isn’t keen on the idea of. In a moment of madness and rebellion, he spots Aries, a woman who isn’t from the mafia way of life and who sparks his interest. Despite the general feelings surrounding bringing an outsider into the community, he propositions her to a marriage of convenience, which typically becomes real.
There is a darkness about Ezra’s character. He is rough, primal, and possessive while taking great delight in killing his enemies and then having mad, spicy times with Aries while still covered in other people’s blood. He recognises something in Aries that calls to his darkness, and he encourages her to evoke her own darkness, especially when dealing with things in her past that have hurt her, like her ex.
“I am very well acquainted with the darkness that lives within me, but you, sweetheart, could use a lesson to see that the abyss which claws at you from within could be your liberation.”
As the first book in the series, it does a great job of building up the world and also setting the scene with not only the story but the whole character development as we meet a mixture of allies and enemies as well as characters who will get their own book in the series.
This isn’t your typical love story, but Ezra has some very pretty words that, in his own dark and stoic way, had me swooning.
“I thought I could let you go, sweetheart, but you’re stuck with me,” I whisper into her hair, and she murmurs nonsense. “Until each and every atom in my body dissipates into nothingness.”
“I kiss her with everything I have whirling inside me—hate, greed, power, lust, love—and I hope to a god I don’t believe in that she somewhat feels the same for me.”
It has me excited for the series with the mix of darkness, danger, and desire, and I can’t wait to see what is to follow in the next books, with threats still lurking and even more at risk now.
There is a darkness about Ezra’s character. He is rough, primal, and possessive while taking great delight in killing his enemies and then having mad, spicy times with Aries while still covered in other people’s blood. He recognises something in Aries that calls to his darkness, and he encourages her to evoke her own darkness, especially when dealing with things in her past that have hurt her, like her ex.
“I am very well acquainted with the darkness that lives within me, but you, sweetheart, could use a lesson to see that the abyss which claws at you from within could be your liberation.”
As the first book in the series, it does a great job of building up the world and also setting the scene with not only the story but the whole character development as we meet a mixture of allies and enemies as well as characters who will get their own book in the series.
This isn’t your typical love story, but Ezra has some very pretty words that, in his own dark and stoic way, had me swooning.
“I thought I could let you go, sweetheart, but you’re stuck with me,” I whisper into her hair, and she murmurs nonsense. “Until each and every atom in my body dissipates into nothingness.”
“I kiss her with everything I have whirling inside me—hate, greed, power, lust, love—and I hope to a god I don’t believe in that she somewhat feels the same for me.”
It has me excited for the series with the mix of darkness, danger, and desire, and I can’t wait to see what is to follow in the next books, with threats still lurking and even more at risk now.
February 22, 2024
“To all the girls who like them tall, dark and psycho”
The question remains is who is more psycho?
If you are here for a lovey dove love story, look elsewhere, Ezra’s ruthlessness and brutal nature only increases the more he falls it does not diminish… and his type of love is anything but common consensus of ‘Love’
This book is just WOW!
The book follows Aries, who comes from a broken home, her mother died, and her father is a drunk, and has come from a pretty messed up previous relationship and has decided a happily ever after is not something she expects for herself, even if she is surrounded by love in her career choice.
It Follows along Ezra’s life, more of a flash back type of story for him, how he has to rise up to become the don of the mafia even after he has been groomed for the position all his life, He follows closely behind a pretty ruthless predecessor.
It’s rare that you follow a mafia book, where once the Don starts to fall loses his brutalness, however Ezras ruthlessness and brute force increases throughout the story, What also increases is the chemistry of these two! It is all FLAMES! His version of love is not to fall into her light but to draw her darkness out
The question remains is who is more psycho?
If you are here for a lovey dove love story, look elsewhere, Ezra’s ruthlessness and brutal nature only increases the more he falls it does not diminish… and his type of love is anything but common consensus of ‘Love’
This book is just WOW!
The book follows Aries, who comes from a broken home, her mother died, and her father is a drunk, and has come from a pretty messed up previous relationship and has decided a happily ever after is not something she expects for herself, even if she is surrounded by love in her career choice.
It Follows along Ezra’s life, more of a flash back type of story for him, how he has to rise up to become the don of the mafia even after he has been groomed for the position all his life, He follows closely behind a pretty ruthless predecessor.
It’s rare that you follow a mafia book, where once the Don starts to fall loses his brutalness, however Ezras ruthlessness and brute force increases throughout the story, What also increases is the chemistry of these two! It is all FLAMES! His version of love is not to fall into her light but to draw her darkness out
June 1, 2025
le voy a dar 3 estrellas xq me atrapó.
peeeeero, vamos a aclarar algunas cosas.
este libro es un loco, la trama un loco que todo pasa de la nada y te quedas tieso.
es mi primer libro de mafia y dónde matan gente like for real y debo decir que me gustó más de lo que pensé.
ezra ta lokito pero que hoooooot!!!!! el con su oscuridad y siendo el rey de la mafia me tocó las fibras necesarias
todo lo sexual muy hot 10/10 cochino y bastante duro, todo lo que una chica necesita.
- "She's more than alright, she's the bullet in my guns, the blood in my veins, but mostly, she's the reason i think i'm starting to believe we can be loved" cómo te vas a sentir así ezra !!!!!
- " i thought i could let you go, sweetheart, but you're stick with me, until each and every atom in my body dissipates into nothingness" ✊🏼✊🏼✊🏼
el concepto de soy capaz de quemar todo y matar a todo el mundo para estar con vos honestamente me compró, que decir, soy solo una chica
peeeeero, vamos a aclarar algunas cosas.
este libro es un loco, la trama un loco que todo pasa de la nada y te quedas tieso.
es mi primer libro de mafia y dónde matan gente like for real y debo decir que me gustó más de lo que pensé.
ezra ta lokito pero que hoooooot!!!!! el con su oscuridad y siendo el rey de la mafia me tocó las fibras necesarias
todo lo sexual muy hot 10/10 cochino y bastante duro, todo lo que una chica necesita.
- "She's more than alright, she's the bullet in my guns, the blood in my veins, but mostly, she's the reason i think i'm starting to believe we can be loved" cómo te vas a sentir así ezra !!!!!
- " i thought i could let you go, sweetheart, but you're stick with me, until each and every atom in my body dissipates into nothingness" ✊🏼✊🏼✊🏼
el concepto de soy capaz de quemar todo y matar a todo el mundo para estar con vos honestamente me compró, que decir, soy solo una chica
February 29, 2024
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An absolute rollercoaster of a book, the plot kept taking turns and there was no chance to catch your breath. I always love a slightly deranged, morally greyish black MMC that would raze the world for the one he loves, The Casella King certainly delivered. The fact that Aries steps into the darkness, takes control and becomes part of Ezra's world brings me great joy, too many times the wife just stands by making demands of humanity and mercy, looking pretty. In this book the FMC takes her rightful place as Queen beside her determinedly deranged King. I am already excited for the next book, Nico intrigues me and I am eager to se how his relationship with Aries develops.
An absolute rollercoaster of a book, the plot kept taking turns and there was no chance to catch your breath. I always love a slightly deranged, morally greyish black MMC that would raze the world for the one he loves, The Casella King certainly delivered. The fact that Aries steps into the darkness, takes control and becomes part of Ezra's world brings me great joy, too many times the wife just stands by making demands of humanity and mercy, looking pretty. In this book the FMC takes her rightful place as Queen beside her determinedly deranged King. I am already excited for the next book, Nico intrigues me and I am eager to se how his relationship with Aries develops.
February 15, 2024
I loved this book I would have devoured it in one day if I didn’t need to goto work, I ended up loving Ezra and his darkness and how perfect him and Aries were for each other. I like the twists and turns of this book and the dynamics of the characters
And the spice was even better!! Highly recommend
And the spice was even better!! Highly recommend
March 1, 2024
This book completely blew me away!!!
I’ve never really been a fan of romance in general and have only recently taken a dive into the dark mafia romance genre and this book has SOLIDIFIED my love for the genre…
I could not put it down….. I stopped reading the book I was in the middle of and devoured this in 2 sittings!!!
I’m not going to give anything away but dark mafia romance readers need to add this to their TBR!!!
I’ve never really been a fan of romance in general and have only recently taken a dive into the dark mafia romance genre and this book has SOLIDIFIED my love for the genre…
I could not put it down….. I stopped reading the book I was in the middle of and devoured this in 2 sittings!!!
I’m not going to give anything away but dark mafia romance readers need to add this to their TBR!!!
July 28, 2024
I loved them so much
February 26, 2024
The Casella King did not disappoint! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️I loved how Aries is not from the mafia world but she is turn has her own demons and darkness. Ezra is the mafia heir turned king in the beginning of the book. The banter between Aries and Ezra is great. I enjoyed seeing how Aries embraced her darkness and feelings. The growth I see from the cold hearted Ezra while still being himself the cold dark mafia leader is written beautifully. Then there's Nico the brother. Darcy the mafia princess from their nemesis. I can't wait to read their story. I hope to see more of Aries and Darcy and how they navigate Darcy's unwanted marriage/friendship.
February 27, 2024
No spoiler review!
OMG! This book was so so full of spice and the plot was fantastic! It was one of my favorite reads of the year and I read it in a day! It is a dark romance so check your trigger warning but it has some big plot twists along the way and I’m so excited for book number 2! This book will for sure be a re read for me!
OMG! This book was so so full of spice and the plot was fantastic! It was one of my favorite reads of the year and I read it in a day! It is a dark romance so check your trigger warning but it has some big plot twists along the way and I’m so excited for book number 2! This book will for sure be a re read for me!
July 11, 2024
“We are all broken in our own way, and it's up to us to determine if it's worth staying broken or to mend these cracks and fortify them. “
Ezra & Aries
I freaking loved this story. It really took me by surprise and turned out even better than I thought starting it.
It’s got all those mafia elements, alpha male, possessive, obsessive, darkish vibes, but it’s so much more.
I love how Ezra isn’t afraid to let Aries stand in her power. Cheering her on, pushing her to be herself. It made me fall for him despite his cruel, ruthless, feral, unhinged and dark side. He’s not a good man by any means and yet he’s got that soft spot for Aries, she’s got all the power to bring him to his knees if she would like. It’s an all consuming love story that makes you weak in the knees if you can see through the darkish sides. I love how the two of them find each other, find solace, love, care, being yourself and letting your deepest desires roam free. They are made for each other, that's a thing that's certain. We’ve got some really steamy and smutty scenes that bring out the possessive and obsessive side of Ezra. We got a mafia story full of revenge, enemies, threats and war. We all have darkness inside of us, but in a world like this one they are in it’s a must to let out your dark side and revel in it.
If your not up for an all consuming love, dark mafia elements, blood, revenge, vengeance and torture scenes, then don’t read this book.
If you love an unhinged, feral, alpha male with blood on his hands, a FMC that’s one heck of a tough b*tch and who’s not afraid or startled by any of this then read this book now.
February 26, 2024
I received this ARC for an honest review 😁
Wow just wow !! My god this book had me in a choke hold so much I couldnt put it down!! Never have I read something and been hooked by both MC's they are everything.
Their chemistry is fire, his whole life is Mafia , following his dads rules to become one of the top dogs and he uses everything in his power to protect the people he loves.
Aries is amazing, I loved reading her character grow into the bad ass she is with the help of Ezra 😁
This book had it all from.start to finish and couldnt read it fast enough 😁.
100% recommend this book because it has it all 😁
Enjoy because I sure did !!
Wow just wow !! My god this book had me in a choke hold so much I couldnt put it down!! Never have I read something and been hooked by both MC's they are everything.
Their chemistry is fire, his whole life is Mafia , following his dads rules to become one of the top dogs and he uses everything in his power to protect the people he loves.
Aries is amazing, I loved reading her character grow into the bad ass she is with the help of Ezra 😁
This book had it all from.start to finish and couldnt read it fast enough 😁.
100% recommend this book because it has it all 😁
Enjoy because I sure did !!
February 26, 2024
Aries and Ezra pulled me in from the start, i absolutely loved their story the darkness the love the obsession Ezra feels from the beginning just pulls you in and keeps you wanting more . I can’t wait to read book two and see how the rest of the characters develop
February 27, 2024
I received this book as an ARC,
I enjoyed this book! I feel like it should have been another 100 pages longer is my only thing. Other than that, I really enjoyed the little bits of Italian culture thrown in!
I enjoyed this book! I feel like it should have been another 100 pages longer is my only thing. Other than that, I really enjoyed the little bits of Italian culture thrown in!
March 6, 2024
No spoilers book review 🥀
4.81/5 ✨
3.7/5 🌶️
Aries absolutely has my heart, she’s surprisingly the most relatable maf!a wife I’ve read about so far haha. I’m pretty sure she’s also the first fmc that I’ve read who has short hair?
Also I’m learning I’m all for revenge plotlines 😮💨
If you love arranged marriage maf!a tropes, this is absolutely a read for you! It hits all the right spots and the spice does spice 🌶️
I can’t wait for the next one!!
(**I only deducted some minor points solely for a certain scene I didn’t necessarily vibe with but that’s completely my opinion! I’d still highly recommend this as a 5/5✨read)
4.81/5 ✨
3.7/5 🌶️
Aries absolutely has my heart, she’s surprisingly the most relatable maf!a wife I’ve read about so far haha. I’m pretty sure she’s also the first fmc that I’ve read who has short hair?
Also I’m learning I’m all for revenge plotlines 😮💨
If you love arranged marriage maf!a tropes, this is absolutely a read for you! It hits all the right spots and the spice does spice 🌶️
I can’t wait for the next one!!
(**I only deducted some minor points solely for a certain scene I didn’t necessarily vibe with but that’s completely my opinion! I’d still highly recommend this as a 5/5✨read)
February 29, 2024
Wow this book put me in such a book slump let me tell you. I enjoyed it so much. The fmc is developed really well, you understand why she is the way she is, her darkness is kind of glossed over a bit but i guess it’s more that internal feeling than physical darkness. The decisions she makes are very on par for her. Especially as someone who is struggling with her own self development. The mmc is a bit more vague, the things he’s done and how dark he really is, is a little bit of a mystery. Their connection and chemistry is done really well, it’s very physical for them both. Something that they didn’t really expect and something they don’t really have control over. The plot is very centred around them developing their dynamic and around her navigating his world along with him navigating his new position in his world. The story was really captivating, there was only a couple of nit picky things I noticed. One was the transition from one particular chapter to another, there is a time jump there and I’ll try to put it in a way that doesn’t spoil what the chapter is about but it kind of jumps right into the day and skips the weeks leading up to it. It was a little confusing but I just went with it. The other picky thing was the @nal play which wasn’t descriptive enough in the sense that there wasn’t enough preparation for the act of it to be realistic. Unfortunately it isn’t as simple as just sticking your thumb up there like the author would have you believe. Preparation and especially lubrication is needed whether it only be some of her personal lubrication, is still better than none. In reference to the spice, it was definitely spicing like 5/5 spice. Its frequent, its descriptive, its hot as hell. Other than those two small nit picky things I absolutely loved reading it and as I said it’s put me in a bit of book slump. Overall I’m putting it at a 4.5/5, it’s a great read. Especially if you like dark romance and mafia, touch her and you’ll be unalived, lots of spice and unaliving. Definitely definitely recommend.
June 3, 2024
Absolute trash of the first water. If you read this, accept that you are solely reading it for the decent smut scenes and you will probably be entertained. If you read this thinking the story itself will entertain you, grip you, or at least not result in eye rolls, I regret to inform that you will be sadly disappointed.
I am not entirely convinced this book had an editor. If it did, I’m not entirely convinced they read it. Firstly, the writing is poor, as in some sentences just do not make grammatical sense type poor. This same haphazardness carries through to the storyline - the protagonists ex-fiancé is first introduced as “Leo” in Chapter 1 only to be referred to as “Ray” from Chapter 12 onward.
The sequence of events seems to take place over the course of about 3 months, if that, so the pace (even for a fake marriage trope) feels insane. The dialogue between the characters is incredibly cringe and stilted because of this fast pace. Seemingly humans also have rapid healing times in this universe, as a gunshot wound to the chest only lays you out for 2 weeks tops, then you are back to normal not even a mention of a scar or any other recovery time. Any obstacle that arises for this mafia family also seems to be dealt with in only one of two ways - can you marry it? No? Can you kill it? Yes? Ok done sorted.
The smut? If you liked 50 shades of gray you’ll probably get along with it just fine.
I am not entirely convinced this book had an editor. If it did, I’m not entirely convinced they read it. Firstly, the writing is poor, as in some sentences just do not make grammatical sense type poor. This same haphazardness carries through to the storyline - the protagonists ex-fiancé is first introduced as “Leo” in Chapter 1 only to be referred to as “Ray” from Chapter 12 onward.
The sequence of events seems to take place over the course of about 3 months, if that, so the pace (even for a fake marriage trope) feels insane. The dialogue between the characters is incredibly cringe and stilted because of this fast pace. Seemingly humans also have rapid healing times in this universe, as a gunshot wound to the chest only lays you out for 2 weeks tops, then you are back to normal not even a mention of a scar or any other recovery time. Any obstacle that arises for this mafia family also seems to be dealt with in only one of two ways - can you marry it? No? Can you kill it? Yes? Ok done sorted.
The smut? If you liked 50 shades of gray you’ll probably get along with it just fine.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Finished in under 24 hours while also doing mundane activities, literally could not put it down.
The way C.B Frey made me have all the feels in a single book is just something else.
Aries and Ezra, what a match made in hell. The darkness of these two together is chefs kiss. Their characters couldn’t have been written more perfectly.
The plot, the twists and the god damn spice. I really didn’t want it to end.
I’m so damn excited for Nico and Darcy story and hopefully get to see a bit more of Aries and Ezra, because we always need more belt action.
Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to read your book, I’m truely blessed.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Finished in under 24 hours while also doing mundane activities, literally could not put it down.
The way C.B Frey made me have all the feels in a single book is just something else.
Aries and Ezra, what a match made in hell. The darkness of these two together is chefs kiss. Their characters couldn’t have been written more perfectly.
The plot, the twists and the god damn spice. I really didn’t want it to end.
I’m so damn excited for Nico and Darcy story and hopefully get to see a bit more of Aries and Ezra, because we always need more belt action.
Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to read your book, I’m truely blessed.
May 10, 2025
Have you ever come across an author randomly and then you end up binge reading all her books? That's me right now.
I read the casella sin the other day which is the third book in this series so I went back to read the other two books too. This book is book one.
The Casella King by C.B. Frey centers on Ezra Casella, the newly appointed head of the Casella crime family, who is forced to marry to continue the family legacy. Well this man said fuck you all.. if I'm doing this, then I'm doing it my way. 🤭
Instead of choosing a bride from within the mafia world, he proposes a marriage of convenience to Aries, a wedding planner with no ties to organized crime.
Aries, dealing with her own troubled past and complicated family life, finds herself drawn into Ezra's dangerous world. As their relationship evolves, both characters confront their inner demons, and realize that they're more similar than they thought they were.
Okay hear me out. EZRA??? Ezra baby I love you. He is a complex, dark, and magnetic anti-hero. His power? Unstoppable. His love? Ruthless. He’s feared by many, trusted by few, and entirely unafraid to spill blood to protect what’s his.
He appeared emotionally guarded, at least in the beginning, but beneath his cold, calculating exterior, lies a man capable of intense loyalty and obsessive love—especially when it comes to Aries.
And Aries?? I loved her too. Yes she's a wedding planner but she's not naive. Yes she's vulnerable but she doesn't fall easily—she resists Ezra’s control, questions his motives, and demands to be seen as more than just a pawn in his game. Her dynamic with Ezra is hottt because she challenges him emotionally in ways no one else does.
Like omg I seriously did not expect to like this series so much. On my way to read the casella ruin. 🙂↔️
Rating: 4★
What to expect:
☠️ Marriage of Convenience
☠️ Possessive/Obsessive hero
☠️ Touch Her and You Die
☠️ Slow Burn with High Tension
☠️ Found Family vs. Blood Family
☠️ Dark Past / Healing Together
☠️ Forced Proximity
☠️ Morally Gray Hero
I read the casella sin the other day which is the third book in this series so I went back to read the other two books too. This book is book one.
The Casella King by C.B. Frey centers on Ezra Casella, the newly appointed head of the Casella crime family, who is forced to marry to continue the family legacy. Well this man said fuck you all.. if I'm doing this, then I'm doing it my way. 🤭
Instead of choosing a bride from within the mafia world, he proposes a marriage of convenience to Aries, a wedding planner with no ties to organized crime.
Aries, dealing with her own troubled past and complicated family life, finds herself drawn into Ezra's dangerous world. As their relationship evolves, both characters confront their inner demons, and realize that they're more similar than they thought they were.
Okay hear me out. EZRA??? Ezra baby I love you. He is a complex, dark, and magnetic anti-hero. His power? Unstoppable. His love? Ruthless. He’s feared by many, trusted by few, and entirely unafraid to spill blood to protect what’s his.
He appeared emotionally guarded, at least in the beginning, but beneath his cold, calculating exterior, lies a man capable of intense loyalty and obsessive love—especially when it comes to Aries.
And Aries?? I loved her too. Yes she's a wedding planner but she's not naive. Yes she's vulnerable but she doesn't fall easily—she resists Ezra’s control, questions his motives, and demands to be seen as more than just a pawn in his game. Her dynamic with Ezra is hottt because she challenges him emotionally in ways no one else does.
Like omg I seriously did not expect to like this series so much. On my way to read the casella ruin. 🙂↔️
Rating: 4★
What to expect:
☠️ Marriage of Convenience
☠️ Possessive/Obsessive hero
☠️ Touch Her and You Die
☠️ Slow Burn with High Tension
☠️ Found Family vs. Blood Family
☠️ Dark Past / Healing Together
☠️ Forced Proximity
☠️ Morally Gray Hero
February 26, 2024
4.75/5 Aries stars to Ezra's darkness!!
"For her, I will go further into the darkness until there isn't a shred of light left. Even if I never reemerge."
Omg I’m in loveeee. I literally started this at 11pm and read it in one sitting. Who needs sleep when you have Ezra Casella?!
Aries gets her dress stuck while rushing to organise a wedding when a charming man comes to her rescue. Little did she know he happens to be the ‘Casella King’ and he has a proposal she just can’t refuse. I super recommend if you wanna read about how she becomes his beacon of light while learning to embrace a lil darkness of her own!!
Ezra truly is deliciously unhinged. I loved the way we get to see his character go from emotionless to finding his own version of a dark, all consuming kind of love (iykyk). I loved the way Aries’ character bloomed in the darkness. The character development overall was amazing. Period. And the way we see them build not just the physical connection but the emotional one too?! *mwah* chefs kiss
The plot was so nicely paced (the last 20% picks up a little quicker which is a breath of fresh air cause it doesn't drag). The action was fun but I personally would’ve loved to read more 🤭 I also would’ve loved to see more from the other side characters but in a way it lowkey added to the mystery. Maybe I’m just delulu who knows haha
There were some moments that lacked in a bit of depth or got a lil repetitive but it doesn’t change the experience at all (in my opinion). Overall, bestie, I adore you and I cannot wait to see what you have in store for book two!! I revived a copy of this and am leaving this honest review voluntarily <3
"For her, I will go further into the darkness until there isn't a shred of light left. Even if I never reemerge."
Omg I’m in loveeee. I literally started this at 11pm and read it in one sitting. Who needs sleep when you have Ezra Casella?!
Aries gets her dress stuck while rushing to organise a wedding when a charming man comes to her rescue. Little did she know he happens to be the ‘Casella King’ and he has a proposal she just can’t refuse. I super recommend if you wanna read about how she becomes his beacon of light while learning to embrace a lil darkness of her own!!
Ezra truly is deliciously unhinged. I loved the way we get to see his character go from emotionless to finding his own version of a dark, all consuming kind of love (iykyk). I loved the way Aries’ character bloomed in the darkness. The character development overall was amazing. Period. And the way we see them build not just the physical connection but the emotional one too?! *mwah* chefs kiss
The plot was so nicely paced (the last 20% picks up a little quicker which is a breath of fresh air cause it doesn't drag). The action was fun but I personally would’ve loved to read more 🤭 I also would’ve loved to see more from the other side characters but in a way it lowkey added to the mystery. Maybe I’m just delulu who knows haha
There were some moments that lacked in a bit of depth or got a lil repetitive but it doesn’t change the experience at all (in my opinion). Overall, bestie, I adore you and I cannot wait to see what you have in store for book two!! I revived a copy of this and am leaving this honest review voluntarily <3
February 27, 2024
💀 The Casella King by is a spectacular dark mafia romance. While yes, this is a romance, it is far from sunshine and roses. It is dark, ruthless, violent, and wonderfully debauched. The plot starts off at a steady pace and the all of a sudden it really gets going into some intense action.
🖤I really liked Aries’s character. While having to deal with difficult complex life situations she is struggling with her inner demons and trying to take care of supporting her family members. She is sharp resolute and ambitious. Once she gets a little nudge in the right direction and some emotional support, she begins to find, understand and accept her true self. Ezra has to be one of my absolute favorite mafia men. He is morally black, completely unhinged, impulsive and authoritative. He knows who he is and has learned to embrace his alluring, deviant darkness. He is direct and dominant yet has accepted that at times he needs to listen and yield to more compromising behavior. Oooooooh and let’s not forget to mention, Ezra‘s filthy mouth. He speaks the most sinfully, sensual words and you’ll want to keep an ice cold beverage close by. The chemistry and dynamic between Ezra and Aries is volatile and once the tiny snowball of lust and desire starts to fall an avalanche of impassioned emotion completely consumes them.
💀I enjoyed The Casella King very much. Great plot filled with action, twist, turns and steamy passion this book has it all. This is a must read for any lover of dark mafia romance. I look forward to Darcy and Nico‘s story. I feel like that is going to be an explosive story.
🖤I really liked Aries’s character. While having to deal with difficult complex life situations she is struggling with her inner demons and trying to take care of supporting her family members. She is sharp resolute and ambitious. Once she gets a little nudge in the right direction and some emotional support, she begins to find, understand and accept her true self. Ezra has to be one of my absolute favorite mafia men. He is morally black, completely unhinged, impulsive and authoritative. He knows who he is and has learned to embrace his alluring, deviant darkness. He is direct and dominant yet has accepted that at times he needs to listen and yield to more compromising behavior. Oooooooh and let’s not forget to mention, Ezra‘s filthy mouth. He speaks the most sinfully, sensual words and you’ll want to keep an ice cold beverage close by. The chemistry and dynamic between Ezra and Aries is volatile and once the tiny snowball of lust and desire starts to fall an avalanche of impassioned emotion completely consumes them.
💀I enjoyed The Casella King very much. Great plot filled with action, twist, turns and steamy passion this book has it all. This is a must read for any lover of dark mafia romance. I look forward to Darcy and Nico‘s story. I feel like that is going to be an explosive story.
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