The greatest gifts aren't always wrapped in paper...
Call me a grinch but Christmas sucks. Always has. So when there’s an opportunity at work to infiltrate the Zicari Syndicate during their Christmas Eve bash, I jump at the chance.
The plan is simple: assume the identity of a seductive mafia mistress with dangerous tastes, and infiltrate the underground crime kingdom. I am prepared for the risks, but the unwanted attention is something entirely new. Specifically from Marco, the wickedly handsome younger brother and right-hand man of the monstrous Stefan Zicari.
Marco isn’t my intended target, but he has a hidden agenda of his own. Instead of killing me, he proposes we form an unlikely alliance. We’ll play pretend, with me standing in as Marco’s newest fling so that we can collect the evidence needed to bring down his brother’s criminal empire for good. And if we’re lucky, Stefan will be in handcuffs before jolly old Saint Nick comes down the chimney.
But things are quickly shifting between us. It’s not long before our acting crosses the line into something real, tempting, and dangerous. Being together can jeopardize everything we’ve worked for and get us killed.
Our charade was only supposed to be for the Christmas holiday, but now I’m wishing I could be Marco’s Mafia mistress all year long.
A Mafia Mistress for Christmas is a holiday mafia romance novella. This story is a quick read that contains some darker themes and lots of heat.
This was a short mafia holiday read and it was really good with all the best parts being action filled and smutty enough. I will say though that I started to question it at first because right when "Natasha" walks into the party, Marco automatically can tell that she is a spy.. other than that, the story line was great for a fast paced book.
A decent read, but felt rushed…but it’s a novella..?Never read a mafia romance before so I am not sure if this is how it normally goes..Very insta-love.
Lacey is an undercover FBI agent. Marco is brother to notorious Mob boss to Stefan Zacari of the Zacari family. When her and her partner develop a plan to infiltrate and take down the Zacari family, never did she expect to meet Marco and fall head over heels for the second in command.
This little novella was full of steam, and I wanted so much more. Lacey and Marco were a wildfire of emotions. I was rooting for them from page one.
The HEA at the end was everything and more. I very much enjoyed this read, I just wish it was longer.
*Overall 4/5 *Heat? 4/5 *Fast burn *Dual first person POV *Ends on HEA
Rating: ⭐️⭐️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ —> this is a modified rating based on my rating scale in my Goodreads bio. There were not tons of spicy scenes, however there wasn’t much of a plot; granted this is a novella, so you can’t do much with a plot with a small number of pages. I wouldn’t say there was enough spice to make spice the plot which is why I came at the spice rating above • When you look at my rating, please keep in mind I am not a mafia dark romance girlie. You may ask me, ‘why did you read this, Elizabeth?’ Well, for one, this was one of the reads for my book club this month; and two, why not try new sub-genres to see how it goes!
If you are looking for a spicy Christmas read, I would say this doesn’t have tons of spice, I was expecting more; but like I said it could be because of the length of the book.
Also- some spice scenes were so short… like common!
I thought this short and spicy book was an amazing read! I love mafia and was pleasantly surprised at how it captivated me. This was sexy, adventurous, and had a great plot for a short read that was easily binge-able. This was my first Brooke Harper book and I can’t wait to read more.
I mean I feel like it only makes sense in the mafia world to like fall in love/ become obsessed with each other in 48 hours but like HERE FOR IT 🤌🏼🥵
I felt like this book totally had the potential to be a longer novel but still as a Novella it got to the point without any extra shit and the chemistry was THERE 😈
Like I said, Marco??🥵 ya id be his mistress too 😬🥵
Lacey never liked Christmas, with her relationship with her mother as restrained as it is, she jumps head first for an opportunity to work on a case during the holiday. The thing is the assignment requires her to go undercover as a mafia mistress, and she was never good at pretending but still determined to do it anyway. Lo and behold, she was caught before she even managed to sneak into the party where a criminal deal was supposed to happen. Marco Zicari, the syndicate second-in-command caught her and offered to strike a deal with her to take down his own brother, It turns out Stefan, the head of the Syndicate has become unhinged and out of control for a while, and he wanted to stop him once and for all. Things are quickly shifting between with that much sexual tension between them, can they come out from this dangerous plan without getting killed?
This book was actually fun to read, it’s full of tension, and it’s thrilling to see them together attempting to take down Stefan. Their first meeting was interesting, I didn’t expect Lacey to be caught right at first glance (she’s not a very good cop now isn’t she?). They were hot for each other pretty much right away, this was instalust turned into instalove, Marco literally said the “L” word the very next day. I have read Brooke Harper’s book before, and she wrote hot and kinky smut, and I Iove it. I recommend this book if you like to read a holiday novella with some thrill and steamy sexy time.
The premise was good, but the execution failed the idea.
I usually don't mind instant love - i love it actually - but this book's instant love trope is so fast that even I questioned myself if I skipped a chapter or three for that matter. I understand that love at first sight exists, but the execution of that trope is cringe worthy that I want to roll my eyes until all I can see is black.
Lacey, FMC, was supposed to be this badass agent, but there is only one scene that showcases this. She's always horny and super mega ultra boring. Not to mention that her whole personality revolves around how "small" she is. She's small. I know. I heard/see it the first time. I'm not illiterate. It honestly made me scoff so much that I feel like I'm starting to cough because of it. She's weak, and she's whiny. You can not change my mind.
Marco, our MMC, is plain as white rice. He's not undesirable or anything. He's just, well, there. I really don't have anything bad to say about him, but there's nothing good that I could say to him either. There's that.
Stefan, on the other hand, is the best character in this book (in my opinion). I wanted to know him. His complexity is captivating, and although he's a straight-up criminal with a murder background, he's intriguing. I wanted to know what happened to him that made him as deprived and paranoid as he is now. There was no context of their father's death, so I was left wanting more.
All in all, I really like the writing style of this book. It was easy to get hooked to, and I can't put it down until I'm finished with it.
Ok, so this is not your usual Christmas cheerful read BUT it does have a gorgeous Christmasty HEA! And it's heartening too, it's about a Mafia kingpin with a conscience. There's something so exceptionally HOT about Mafia guys who know exactly how to be tender, loving and sexy as heck! And Marco is that in abundance....
Lacey is an undercover FBI agent, tasked with uncovering and taking down notorious Zicari Mafia brothers, Marco is one of those brothers and he's not exactly how she imagined he would be. Stefan, the other brother, well, THAT'S an entirely different story! Geez, he's seriously unhinged! Lacey is totally out of her depth, landing herself in some serious s*it, both physically and oh boy, when I say physically, I MEAN PHYSICALLY! Her life and her heart are in danger...but heck, same applies for Marco. Once he catches his first glimpse of her, she does something to her, yep, PHYSICALLY!
It was a quick and intense read, with very interesting characters and the events played out were dramatic. The instant attraction Lacey and Marco had was more lust than like but heck, what lovely delicious scenes those were! I liked the fact that Marco really wanted to go straight, be straight and the only way was to bring his brother down, who's completely off his rocker. The lies and deception, both Lacey and Marco played out beautifully in a glimpse of what Mafia life looks like, full of suspicion, violence and guns aplenty! Great short story.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "A MAFIA MISTRESS FOR CHRISTMAS" OMG!!! this was such a interesting, entertaining, intense, wild roolerciaster ride full of suspense, angst, danger, secrets, lies, betrayal, steamy hot scenes, violence, brutal abuse, twists that make for a very addicting page turner. Lacey Matthews is an FBI agent her BF & partner Wes catch a high priority case it's Christmas a holiday she hates, reasons from her past, he went to the Boss for her to get this case that could mean a promotion for both of them if they can take down the Mafia in Kingstead, Stefan Zicari heads the organization his brother Marco second in command. Wes plans for Lacey to go the event Stefan planned for Charity as Natasha Moretti to get close to Stefan for information but it Marco his brother who spots her & knows immediately she won't get through security so he intercepts her, he makes arrangements for her to be his fake mistress to take down his brother Stefan needs to be stopped & he wants to dismantle the organization, his brother is insane & getting worse by the day, he wants Lacey to help him get what he needs to do it a win win for them both. I definitely recommend to get this riviting rollercoaster ride full of intense crazy moments when Stefan goes off the rails, abusive to his finance, Marco & Lacey become an item both extremely attracted to each other, will they survive what Stefan has planned, will they get a HEA, its a must read you don't want miss, a very enjoyable Mafia Christmas Novella I loved the characters they really pulled you into all the chaos. EXCELLENT DARK TWISTED MAFIA ROMANCE I LOVED IT 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤
Lacey is a Federal Agent and she has just been offered a plum yet dangerous assignment to go under cover. If Lacey and her Partner Wes can pull off this assignment, it would mean a promotion for them. However, Lacey is to find the undercover assignment was more dangerous then she realized. Because who would of thought she would be in danger of losing her heart to Marco Zicaris of the Mafia family, she was trying to get inside information on, to take them down. Marco saw her and realized what she was right away and saved her from being found out by his brother Stefan. Stefan Zicaris has gone to far and Marco wanted him taken down, he has broken his promise to his mother not to get involved in drugs. Stefan had set a deal with with Ermilo Cironer, called the Viper. When the first shipment Stefan was to give Ermilo, the drug mules were caught at the airport and with no product, how will Stefan resolve the problem? Will Marco be able to save Lacey and get her the information she will need to take down Marco? Will the Viper let him live? The interpersonal stories of the characters makes this story of twists and turns, one that does not allow you to but the book down to see how it will end.
A wonderfully dark and joyful Christmas smutty story!
Story line: 4/5 Smut: 3.5/5 (I want more! LOL!)
Lacey Matthews is a law enforcer who lands a life changing case during a holiday she hates. Lacey must seduce one of the Zicari brothers in order to gain information to bring down the family syndicate but what she finds is an unlikely Christmas surprise. Marco Zicari hates Christmas just as much as he hates his brother. When this unknown woman walks into his life, Marco sees an opportunity to unchain himself to this life. They come up with a plan to work together as a fake couple to take down the syndicate although working so intimately lines start to blur. What was real and fake became less important.
I love mafia and Christmas especially characters that hate the holiday but then see the beauty in it later. Lacey letting go and embracing her fake role was amazing. Marco's inter feelings and thoughts were the snarky comedic relief that was needed. The chemistry between Lacey and Marco felt both realistic and passionate. It is a dirty, naughty Christmas novella to get you in the mood. I only wish that Lacey and her mother's relationship was explained a bit more. I also kind of wish that the story would continue. Overall a great holiday read!
Immersing myself in this brisk mafia holiday read was an unexpectedly thrilling experience. The narrative excelled in delivering action-packed sequences intertwined with just the right amount of steamy moments. However, I found myself momentarily skeptical at the onset when Marco instantly discerned 'Natasha' as a spy upon her arrival at the party—a minor point that seemed slightly too convenient.
Nevertheless, the story swiftly gained momentum, offering a captivating and fast-paced plot that kept me engrossed. The tale was skillfully structured, utilizing its brevity to its advantage by delivering an engaging and entertaining storyline that didn't compromise on intensity.
While this quick read had a few minor hiccups, particularly in its immediate character insights, it more than compensated with its well-executed action and alluring narrative pace. It's a testament to the author's ability to craft an engaging plot within a concise format. Overall, a commendable addition to the genre that provided a satisfying blend of action, intrigue, and passionate encounters, making it a compelling read for those seeking a thrilling mafia-themed escapade.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A Mafia Mistress for Christmas is a short and steamy, OTT, instalove, Christmas-themed, mafia dark romance. Lacey is a sassy and driven FBI agent. Marco is the hunky younger brother of Stefan Zicari, the notorious, ruthless, and sadistic mafia leader. When Lacey lands the assignment to try and infiltrate the Zicari syndicate, she never expects to have an ally in Marco. He is tired of his crazy brother and has wanted to take down the syndicate for some time. Lacey poses as his mistress Natasha, and things get S-T-E-A-M-Y!! These two were throwing some serious heat, and feelings get blurred between fantasy and reality. Holy hot chemistry 🔥🥵. Will they succeed in taking down Stefan? And can their unconventional love make it?? I loved this couple and story. My only complaint is that I wish it was longer. Marco was totally swoon-worthy, and Lacey was a badass. And the HEA was absolutely amazing. This was my first Brooke Harper novel but not my last!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
B.H. Have written such Amazing books i loved her book a mafia mistress for Christmas . I love following lacey in her journey and i loved to read her growth as a character…. I just really love the Way this authors writes… all the books she write is always soo good and always keeps me on my toes… the Way she write is soo intresting.. i have loved all the books i have read by her… i love laceys story and i love watching her realstionship with marco grow stronger and stronger…. I really loved the story and the characters… i loved that we Got introduced to new characters… this is a really intresting story.. i´m so exicted to read the second and contuine the jouney with these character
I highly recommed that people read her book mafia mistress for Christmas and if you haven’t read this book yet Then What are you waiting for you are really missing out on something …
A Mafia Mistress For Christmas by Brooke Harper is a thrilling and spicy dark mafia Christmas romance novella. The FBI is sending Lacey into a "charity” event hosted by the Zacari Syndicate. However, Marco the younger brother of Stephan the head of Zacari notices her and realizes she is law enforcement. Marco decides to team up with her to take his brother and the Syndicate down. Can Lacey trust him and pose as his Mistress For Christmas?
This was a fast-paced, fast-burn 5-star story that I quickly read in a day. There was plenty of excitement as readers follow Lacey and Marco as they try to keep ahead of the criminals and keep things professional when they both feel a pull towards one another. There is a lot at stake with Stephan being paranoid and unpredictable. Things heat up quickly between Lacey and Marco with plenty of spice for the holidays. If you enjoy dark steamy mafia romance you will love this holiday hit.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow, I was so captivated reading this book with plans that kept changing when other people got involved, and to think, Lacey an Agent is taking up the appearance of someone else to get into a Christmas party she thought it was a good plan, it was just her luck Marco Zicari could tell she didn't belong, that she is not who she says she is. Marco is taking advantage of this with his own plan with the Zicari Syndicate. Lacey and Marco are working together but they seem to be getting closer, it is like a magnetic pull between them. Will these two survive if the plan fails. I loved this page turner, betrayal, lies, deceit, secrets, anger, revenge, arrogance, passion and lots more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love Brooke Harper’s writing. It is always gripping and pulls you in but doesn’t let go until you reach the end. This one is no different. It quickly pulled me in and kept me glued to it. It is a quicker read but very intriguing and original. I really enjoyed Lacey and Marco’s chemistry and personalities. They have such great banter and chemistry that it is felt throughout the story. This story has a lot packed into it in such a short amount of time. But, it is not so short that you feel like you are missing something. The flow of the story is superb. It is packed with drama, suspense, and intrigue. The mafia aspect was a great draw for the story. However, it is not your usual mafia story. It is original and that makes it so much better. I love how it ended. It is absolutely a stunning story that is a must read.
If you love quick, sark and steamy, insta attraction mafia Christmas romances then a Mafia Mistress for Christmas by Brooke Harper is just the story you’re looking for! This one is a super fast read that jumps right in and takes you on quite the adrenaline rush of a ride!
Lacey is an FBI agent on a mission to Prove herself by taking down a head of the mafia—however to do that, she has to go in under cover and let’s just say that’s not her strong suit and she’s quickly discovered. But luckily by the hot and sexy second in command who happens to be the brother of the head of the Zicaris family. But lucky for Lacey, Marco also wants to take down his brother and an agreement is soon reached. And boy do the sparks fly! Things heat up fast in this story, so buckle up as our duo find themselves in quite the entangled weave of deceit!
The plan was to infiltrate the party, not become involved with the bad boy hero. But no plan survives contact with the enemy and if our hero and heroine want to succeed, they are going to have to work together. Figuring out what comes after that is an entirely different issue.
This is something of an erotic romance with a mafia theme to it. The story is well written and easy to read with a simple setup. The real stars however, are our characters. Both leads are well developed and just made for each other. They might have a few reservations at start, oh and a dangerous mission to complete, but those are just minor inconveniences. Overall, I quite enjoyed this story and definitely look forward to more from this author.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Spicy and fast, Brooke Harper still manages to give us a plot chockful of intrigue and danger. Lacey's undercover skills are put to the test when Marco quickly realizes her cover story is a sham, and she presents the perfect solution to help remove his brother from a rapidly devolving situation. Stefan's unhinged and unstable personality is the right kind of crazy to drape the plot of a fast book, and he brings a sense of danger that is immediate. It is a novella, but it won't FEEL like a novella. Over all the risky behaviors, is the tension between Lacey and Marco. Brooke is spectacular at ruining panties with these hot interludes, and Mafia Mistress for Christmas is no different. It is all the best things about a holiday romance book, with the expected spice and danger of Brooke Harper's mafia reads.
It thoroughly enjoyed this Novella/short story about Lacey the FBI agent and Marco the hot Mafia bad boy. When charged with taking down Stefan Zicari and the Zicari syndicate, Lacey dons a costume imitating a matia socialite to attend a charity ball to do some snooping. Little was she expecting the tall dark and handsome little brother Zicari to not only identify her but offer his help to finally bring thr syndicate down! Assuming the role of Marcos mistress so as to wave off eager eyes, you discover if Lacey cam keep everything professional or if she's gonna toe to line to get the proof she needs?!
Thw writing style is fab, I enjoyed more by this Author a few months ago. There's plenty of suspense and heat and a perfect HEA for the lovely pair 🩷🩷
This was a hot novella! I was pulled in immediately and read in one sitting. Despite being a quick read, the characters were very well written and developed. I love Brooke Harper, she creates characters and develops them so beautifully! You immediately love both the FMC and MMC. Lacey is smart and strong while s being vulnerable and naive. Marco is total alpha! He's a rough and tough Mafia man but also has morals. These two together are hot!! They have instant chemistry and instant attraction! You can't help but root for them, both for their mission and for their attraction. This is a story full of intrigue, action, secret identities, twists and so much spice!!
An undercover FBI agent and the brother to a notorious mob boss?!?! What could go wrong - or right? Harper delivers a well written novella length romance that is full of dark mafia danger and plenty of steamy chemistry all happening during Christmas. Our main characters are Lacey (said FBI agent) and Marco (said brother). It's an insta lust / love read so pretty far-fetched but a wonderful escape into a fast-paced story that will leave you breathless with all the danger and deliciously dark steaminess. I loved it's no fuss no muss type story and while I don't always love an insta romance, this one was captivating and thrilling from the very beiginning and I couldn't help loving it!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.