Zeb: A Hawaiian Mafia Romance: Book Two

by Nalani Titcomb

Zeb Lehua has been in love with Mahina Tillman since he was twelve years old. They endured over two decades of separation as family and a misguided sense of honor tore him away.

But now he’s back.

When she needed him the most, he once again became her protector and now they're getting the second chance he’d always yearned for.

Yet, his life and business are constantly exposed to danger, with lurking threats around every corner.

Where is it coming from, and why does it seem to center around Mahina and her family?

Zeb needs to stay one step ahead of their enemies because he and Mahina are soul mates and he won’t lose her again.

Zeb Lehua will destroy everything and everyone in his path. He will burn the world down for Mahina Tillman.

~

Zeb is the second book in the Hawaiian Mafia Romance series. It is highly recommended to read Mahina first as Zeb begins where Mahina left off on a cliffhanger. The books should be read in order for the best experience. All books are full-length novels.

This is a mafia romance that contains dark themes that may be triggering to some. At its core, this is a love story with spice, violence, and drama. However, it tackles sensitive topics like sex trafficking, portraying the harsh realities of abuse in its various forms - sexual, mental, and physical - and depicting acts of killing and murder.

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 7, 2024

About the author

Nalani Titcomb was born and raised on the beautiful Islands of Hawaii. She’s a single mother to an amazing son, whom she says is her greatest accomplishment. Family and faith are most important to her. Nalani began her writing journey after Hawaii went into its second complete lockdown during the Covid19 pandemic and self-published her first book, The Dark Side of Paradise, in 2020.

Reviews

[Nanii’s Book Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

How is it possible that I love so many characters in this book? Zeb obviously being number one on my list. I loved how he cared for Benjamin as if he were his own and when Ada came into the picture, I didn’t think I could love him more. Mahina & Zeb’s relationship is everything. Mahina’s brother was such an A-hole, he definitely gave “I’m jealous of my family vibes” and it was NOT cute. I loved Levi and his loyalty to Zeb which extended to Mahina and Benjamin. I am super excited for his book to come out and I’d love to see him around the family more. Caution: This book contains the topic of child trafficking.

𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐫 ↴
This is an Advanced Reader copy. Although this book was given to me as an ARC my thoughts are my own. Thank you to Nalani Titcomb and Booksirens for the ARC opportunity!

🫧 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 📖

[Natasha Durgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!!

This book had me hooked from the first page. Throughout the book it felt like I was there living in the story! The twists and turns had me audibly gasping! I highly recommend everyone reading this book!

[A Brew Story · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I could tell you how many emotional rollercoasters this book took me on. I was not ready. At one point, I started crying and had to walk away from the book for a bit. I was quite literally afraid to look. What a great book Nalani. So freaking good.

[Amanda Price (LifeWithAmandaP) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
2/5 🌶️🌶️

-

What to Expect:
☀️Mafia Romance
🌊Best Friends to Lovers
☀️Second Chance
🌊She’s Mine!
☀️Single Mom
🌊Touch Her & 🔥💀🔥
☀️HOT&STEAMY!
🌊Protective MMC
☀️CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS!!!
🌊Book 2

-

Welp, Nalani Titcomb absolutely knocked it out of the park with Zeb! This second book picks up right where Mahina left off, and from page one, it had me REELED IN! Zeb and Mahina’s relationship deepens in such a beautiful way, and watching him fully embrace the role of protector—not just to Mahina, but to Benjamin as well (love a god ole step daddy ;))—had me swooning so hard. There’s a perfect blend of romance, action, and suspense, and let me tell you, the spice in this one? Chef’s kiss! If you thought book one was intense, just wait until you dive into this!

One of my favorite things about this book (aside from Zeb himself, obviously) was how much we got to see of the side characters. Levi’s loyalty to Zeb and Mahina added so much depth to the story, and I’m beyond excited to get his book next. On the flip side, Mahina’s brother was the ABSOLUTE WORST—I swear every time he was on page, I wanted to throw my Kindle. And speaking of emotions, Zeb doesn’t shy away from darker themes, especially surrounding child trafficking, so definitely CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS before diving in. Nalani does an incredible job balancing the heavy moments with lighter, swoon-worthy ones, making this such a well-rounded read.

Overall, Zeb delivered everything I wanted—action, romance, spice, and a gripping storyline that kept me glued to my kindle. Seeing Mahina and Zeb’s relationship grow stronger, and witnessing their little family come together, was so heartwarming. And THAT ENDING?! I need Levi’s book immediately!!!!!

[The Booktrovert Records · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review
🐢Zeb 🦈
Book 2 of the Hawaiian Mafia Romance Series
Written By: @nalanititcomb

Overall: 4/5
Overall plot: 4/5
Character development: 4/5
Pace: 4/5
World building: 4/5
Spice 🌶️: 2/5

Book 2 of the Hawaiian Mafia Romance series picks up right where Mahina (book 1) concludes and boy did Nahali take us for a ride. If you haven’t read book 1, stop! 🚫 Read Mahina before you do so you’ll understand the character dynamics and also know what’s going on here.

Zeb and Mahina’s relationship just gets better and it’s been so great reading how the relationship between Benjamin and Zeb is blossoming! There’s more intrigue into Zeb’s “organization” and world than the first book. There’s also more about Mahina’s older brother and Levi in this book.

Zeb’s love for Mahina continues to grow and doesn’t want to waste any more time since this is his shot, he’s finally got the girl of his dreams but Mahina needs to adjust and doesn’t quite get a break until a big bang at the end and they’re finally able to take a breather as their family grows.

⚠️ A word of caution: be sure to check the trigger warnings, as there are active topics of child trafficking throughout the book. ⚠️

Overall, I’d recommend this book if you like to read a dark-themed mafia second chance romance with some spice.

Tropes:
🐢 Mafia Romance
🦈 Second Chance
🐢 Best Friends to Lovers
🦈 Single Mom
🐢 Touch Her and I’ll Burn the World Down Around You!
🦈 She’s Mine

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Mahina, the prequel to Zeb, and leaving the book with a cliffhanger that defines "plot twist," I immediately picked up Zeb. 


The book Zeb picks up where the book Mahina leaves off, immediately following the long-awaited requited love scene between Zeb and Mahina. With Zeb's life-altering truth spoken allowed, Mahina recenters and changes course with her perspectives on relationships in her life. As she and Zeb continue to grow in their relationship, the Hawaiian "organization" Zeb heads becomes more clear to Mahina. Although technically the mafia, Zeb's role, as well as the role of his people, is to irridaticate the "bad" that the law is unable to manage. Caught in the beginning of an internal family war in the organization centering around human trafficking, Mahina and Zeb work together to create a safe haven for their family and survivors of the war. 


Zeb answers all the questions Mahina asked. With high octane scenes and continued intricate dynamics, as well as more spicy scenes, Zeb was even more captivating than Mahina. This series only gets better as the story continues, and I can't wait to jump into Levi next!

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

“He was her life, and she couldn't fathom how she had managed to survive without his love for so long.”

Nalani! What an incredible way to continue Mahina and Zeb’s story!!! If you’re looking for a mafia romance, set in Hawaii, with elements of romance and suspense, I highly recommend checking this book out (*important note: you need to read Mahina first to understand the events in Zeb). This book does touch upon some tough topics so please check warnings before reading.

After the events of the first book, Zeb and Mahina are faced with some new challenges. Despite this, the two show unconditional love for each other and do everything they can to protect their families from harm. We see a lot more romantic moments between Zeb and Mahina, which were so sweet.

Nalani does a wonderful job of captivating readers with her writing. The storyline was amazing and the cliffhanger left me wanting more immediately! I highly recommend checking this book out!!! I can’t wait for Levi’s book!

[LC · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zeb
Hawaiian Mafia Romance
Book Two
By Nalani Titcomb

Oh the twist! That mangy b@d didn’t die! Oh Mahina and Jammies, how will they deal with it?!

Zeb starts where we left off and in Zeb we see him more clearly through the lens of his work and his love for family. He’s found out about the disloyalty of his Uncle and others and now he finds himself needing to clean house. While that is all happening, he is solidifying his relationship with Mahina, Jammies, and her family.

Oh my goodness! This book was a roller coaster ride of betrayal, love, hope, and loss. I have to say it again, it is totally worth staying up all night to read! Nalani Titcomb is a wonderful writer. She weaves magic and romance together is a way that feels new. She builds a strong family unit in the Tillman’s and the Lehua’s. Her descriptions of Hawaii make me wish I could visit. I will finish Levi this weekend. I really want to see how this story ends.

[Ruchi Reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚📚 REVIEW 📚📚 

Book    :  Zeb: A Hawaiian Mafia Romance: Book Two (Hawaiian Mafia Romance series 2)
Author : Nalani Titcomb
Format: Kindle Edition
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Nalani Titcomb's latest release was the perfect second installment of the heartwarming story of Zeb Lehua, who was deeply in love with Mahima Tillman.

Their struggle to overcome the odds and embrace the present while infusing their lives with positivity and love resonated deeply with me. The author skillfully crafted their journey, delivering a deeply emotional and captivating read.

The book served as a fitting conclusion to this enchanting duet, leaving me fully immersed in their world.

Overall, it was a testament to the power of love and resilience, reminding us of the beauty found in life's challenges and triumphs.

[Lauren Curley · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 Stars
🌶 - Spice Level

Zeb's Book 2 gives you insight and POV on from Book 1 as it starts right where it left off for Zeb and Mahina. They are presented with more challenges due to the fall out from the soon to be ex-husband to the uncle Charlie in the Zeb's Zehua family. As there are twists and turns for the mysteries and betrayal, Zeb and Mahina continue by moving in together. Zeb fills in the role of Jammy's father.

I loved getting to see more of Zeb's part of this story and how he came to be the leader after his father passed along with the tutelage from his uncle. There's some spice between Zeb and Luna, but it's more the story that keeps you engaged. I'm curious about the next book as Levi will be flushed out further as the underboss of Zeb. He's a quiet enforcer and doles out the commands to the rest of the Mafia's organization.


Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Previous Release Date: May 7, 2024

[Booktokqutiepie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well this steamy little read picks up right where Mahina left off thank goodness!

Didn’t think I could like Zeb more but I was so wrong, as the relationship between him and Mahina blossomed the genuine step daddy vibes with Benjamin….swoon worthy!

Why is everyone all the sudden making amazing step daddies on page, y’all trying to get me to drop my hubby so I can get a big boi step daddy? lol

The side characters in this wet my appetite fully for Levi’s book, seeing him extending his love and protection to all of the, really endeared him to me

Thank goodness Levi was already out when I hit the end of this one cause I went right in to the next.

I will say just like with Mahina there are so,e serious triggers in this book ie child trafficking so make sure you check the list before you dive in.

Overall this was another 4⭐️ for me with a bit more spice upping it to a 3🌶️

[Arshiya Mazher · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5

This book was more than what I was expecting. The twists in this book were very nice and the story line was beautiful. All the characters in this book stole my heart.
Ada and Benjamin are the most beautiful children that anyone could ask for. The love that Zeb gives these children is out of the world. Mafia man, or as Mahina says, these Mobsters, have a lot of love and affection in their heart no mater what their exterior shows.
The ending of this book had me crying (obviously can’t spoil) but it was absolutely worth it. There’s not one thing I would change about this book.
Zeb and Mahina have such a beautiful relationship. The past they shared the future they’re building the present life they make so happy and content will you have emotionally dying. Their relationship is just absolutely perfect.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you were missing the spice from Mahina, you can be assured that you will get your fill of it in this book! I mean, chapter one featured the first of many smexy scenes between Mahina and Zeb. Nalani took me on an emotional and scorching, hot ride with this duet!

I loved Zeb's nickname for Mahina "Petal". Every time that he called her that, I swooned. I truly could not get enough of these two together. Zeb oozed touch her and d!e vibes! The aftercare scene was touching and hot. A man who pleasures his woman and cares for her afterwards...yes, please.

This may be the end of this duet, but readers may not have seen the last of these two as Mahina's sister, Levi gets her own story next.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book picks up the story where Mahina left off and runs with it

Mahina, Zeb's Hene, is one gutsy mama as we saw at the end of book 1. Now she has to learn to navigate a relationship with Zeb as an equal partner, not like it was with Kenneth.

Zeb, caught between black and white, takes no chances when it comes to Hene (aka Petal) and Benjamin's well-being.

Nalani Titcomb's wonderful vocabulary and writing skills absorbed me, the way of life, celebrations, passion and descriptions of Hawaii were up there in my opinion.

It's difficult to leave a thorough review because these books must be read in series & I'm desperate for Levi's story.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Navina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I already loved the first Book and now this?
Miss Titcomb what's up with this sequel. It's spicy, sweet, heartwarming and has a really good "Touch what's mine and you ..." vibe.

Book two starts where book one ends and if you read book one you know it ends with a cliffhanger where your mouth is wide open.

Mahina and Zeb are a power couple. And the relationship to their Son and yes I say THEIR because nobody can tell me Zeb doesn't love him as his own, is so heartwarming.

I can't even say that much because I don't want to be a Spoiler. The only thing I will say is. I loved this sequel and can't wait to read the third book with Levi and Lulani as the prota.

The series contains Dark themes that could trigger some so be careful.

[angellia pai · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Follow-up

The story picked up where “Mahina” left off. The fast pace was wonderful without feeling rushed and there were no (unintended) loose ends as far as plot and characters are concerned. The spice was much more frequent, and tasteful with much of it being closed door. The relationships between characters were so tangible that I felt a part of the family. There was much more POV from Zeb, being as he is the namesake for this book. We get some glimpses of his past, prior to his return to the island. We really get to know his cousin-brother, Levi; which is the perfect setup for the third book.

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book picks up right where book 1 ends and there were some twists and turns I should have seen coming but didn’t and others came out of left field (completely surprised me).

I loved how we got to see Zeb and Mahina’s relationship grow more and find out more about the past (won’t say anything else so I don’t spoil anything). I loved so many of the characters and of course hated others. I really liked how this booked ended and can’t wait to start reading my ARC of Levi’s story (book 3).

The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because it didn’t grab me as much as the first one did but I still really liked it.

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5⭐ again, no questions needed

this book was everything and more. the beautiful relationship between Zeb and Mahina and their own families are just the best to read. I especially love how they communicated so thoroughly instead of hiding stuff of each other. The close knit family always makes me cry and laugh.

Zeb, the man you are omg. The greenest flag ever. Want a mafia book boyfriend who's all green no red? Zeb Lehua is the man for you. Also every characters are so well written; protagonists, side characters, and villains. Benjamin and Mahina officially wins best mom-son book duo 🫶🫶

Would recommend this book but note that it has spice and lots of o/her sensitive topics.

[Alexandra Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zeb is book 2 in the mafia series and picks up right where book 1 , Mahina, leaves off. This book is so well written and beautifully executed that you can feel the Hawaiian breeze and see the ocean crashing into the sand. Mahina and Zeb begin to navigate through life together and explore their new life as a blended family and all the joy and drama that comes with a law following family meshing with a mafia. Both have family drama and both only want the safety of those that mean the most to them. This book has spice, humor, suspense, and drama that everyone can relate to! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book!

[SusieQ_Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book two in Nalani Titcomb's Hawaiian Mafia romance series is titled "Zeb". The story picks up after the highly combustible ending and surprising tidbit that Ms. Titcomb left us with in "Mahina". I'm still not sure I forgive her, but I won't tell you, so I don't spoil the surprise. Zeb Lehua is one morally grey dude with a huge heart. I loved his relationships with Benjamin and little Ada. Mahina loves and trusts him unconditionally, and when a threat to her appears to be tied to betrayal within his organization, all bets are off.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and am anxiously waiting for the next one. This world is so beautifully crafted and written I can almost feel like I’m back in Hawaii again. Mahina and Zeb have traveled a long road to get back to each other. Benjamin is turning into a wonderful man and Ada will get her happy ever after. Both families are safe for the time being and Uncle Charlie will make a mistake because is incapable of thinking anyone could possibly be better than himself.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Nichole Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally flew through this book. I just had to know what happened after being left with a cliffhanger in Book 1, Mahina. This one was even better than the last. Mahina and Zeb's relationship and chemistry is so so much more in this book and I loved it. His love and protectiveness for her and her son is amazing. This one wasn't so much of a slow burn, and is packed full of action and surprises. I really love all the side characters as well, her family and Levi. I'm so looking forward to reading more about Levi in the next book!

[Cheyanna Curry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zeb is messy, emotional, and honestly a little heartbreaking.

Watching two people who clearly love each other struggle through trauma, secrets, and fear of losing each other was a lot… but in a way that felt real.

Zeb isn’t perfect. He makes frustrating, painful choices… but you understand why, and that makes it harder to hate him.

This story dives into heavy topics, so definitely check content warnings… but it also shows love, loyalty, and what it means to choose someone fully, even when it’s hard.

And yes… Kenneth gets what he deserves.

[BecReadReview · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you read book 1, you know the Author left us HANGING. Book 2 starts with that intensity of what's next. The love between Zeb & Hene is told in such a way that it's all engulfing and leaves you all warm and tingling. Zeb's character is grey yet you absolutely will fall in love with him. Nalani as usual weaves the story is such sweet manner which makes you enjoy every happines, pain, good, bad and keep coming back for more. Looking forward to Levi!

[Jordan Fiest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zeb is book two of the Hawaiian Mafia Romance Series.

This book starts off right where it left us with book one. But we get to focus more on Zeb and his inner workings. We get to see his future with Mahina develop more. These two go through a lot to be together and get their HEA. There are a lot of secrets revealed and shocking discoveries. We really get a lot of action and suspense throughout the story, but especially near the last quarter. It was an edge of your seat ride.

[Reads by Mama T · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book of this series and I’m safe to report the cliffhanger the 1st book ends on, positively redeemed some of my thoughts in this one!

Second chance romance always sucks me in and especially with Zeb protective of Mahina against her own brother, however their relationship builds in this one!

Zeb is definitely German Shepherd vibes!

Between juggling life and business needs danger and threats are a constant but he is heroine at all costs for Mahina and those close to them.

[Thuy Cu · Rating 5 out of 5]

The tension in this book can be felt throughout the whole story! And also intense! This is book two and it start from where we left off from book one, Mahina.
The relationship to Zeb and Mahina is very passionate and sweet. At the end of the book was nerve wracking and all I wanted was to read what happens next. I enjoyed the book a lot and can recommend reading this one

[Anne Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the books I have read by this author, the previous story about Mahini was great and this follow up did not disappoint. Cannot wait for the next book. Definitely need to read in order but you will not be disappointed.


I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Crystal McCarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Zeb! I could not put this book down. The chemistry between Zeb and Mahina is amazing. They're love is so strong. The bond between Zeb and little Ada is the most adorable thing. He's such a softie for her. Also the way he loves Mahina's son Benjamin like his own is so sweet. This book has love, family and some thrilling action. Everything you could want in a story and more!

[Jenn O'Leary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zeb is the exciting, emotional conclusion of Zeb & Mahina's story.
It picks up where Mahina left off, and Nalani keeps you on the edge of your seat wanting to find out what happens next.
This was a really enjoyable read and I can't wait for more Hawaiian Mafia Romance!