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De Salvo Family #1
Rescued by the Mafia
Iris Jayne is a survivor. But her past continues to haunt her…
Her new life threatens to crumble with the discovery that her ex has followed her across state lines. Stranded, vulnerable, and terrified, Iris only has one man to call—a sexy stranger who had previously offered his comfort and his help. Her new employer, Dante De Salvo.
Calling on Dante changes everything. For the first time in her life, she feels protected.
But can she really commit to marrying a mafia man, even if he stirs her desires with every touch?
Or is this deadly, powerful man exactly what she needs to find her own inner fire?
Dante “the Dragon” De Salvo takes what he wants and isn’t afraid to burn down anyone or anything in his way. And from the moment he lays eyes on her, he knows Iris is meant to be his.
She’s skittish, terrified of an enemy she thought she’d already escaped, and absolutely too good for him. None of that matters. Dante is determined to destroy everything that threatens her. Neither her ex, nor the up-and-coming gang trying to cut in on his turf, will come between them.
He won’t just make Iris his woman. He’ll make her his queen.
Her new life threatens to crumble with the discovery that her ex has followed her across state lines. Stranded, vulnerable, and terrified, Iris only has one man to call—a sexy stranger who had previously offered his comfort and his help. Her new employer, Dante De Salvo.
Calling on Dante changes everything. For the first time in her life, she feels protected.
But can she really commit to marrying a mafia man, even if he stirs her desires with every touch?
Or is this deadly, powerful man exactly what she needs to find her own inner fire?
Dante “the Dragon” De Salvo takes what he wants and isn’t afraid to burn down anyone or anything in his way. And from the moment he lays eyes on her, he knows Iris is meant to be his.
She’s skittish, terrified of an enemy she thought she’d already escaped, and absolutely too good for him. None of that matters. Dante is determined to destroy everything that threatens her. Neither her ex, nor the up-and-coming gang trying to cut in on his turf, will come between them.
He won’t just make Iris his woman. He’ll make her his queen.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 23, 2024
109 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Rose Wulf
50 books136 followersBeing a published author has always been my dream.
For years I wrote (and wrote and wrote) for no one's sake but my own. I took creative writing classes in college, and I finally became published in 2012.
Though my first publisher and I parted ways, I found a place that felt like home in 2014 when I landed with Evernight Publishing. I truly could not be more grateful than I am for Evernight's author loyalty and support.
As of the start of 2023, I have 2 completed series to my name - Elemental and Night Shadows - as well as one ongoing, the Dark Light series. I also have several standalone fantasies and fairytales to help bolster my booklist.
To date I have won 3 Reader's Choice Awards for my work!
It remains my dream to be a successful author. To earn a living off what I love: writing!
For years I wrote (and wrote and wrote) for no one's sake but my own. I took creative writing classes in college, and I finally became published in 2012.
Though my first publisher and I parted ways, I found a place that felt like home in 2014 when I landed with Evernight Publishing. I truly could not be more grateful than I am for Evernight's author loyalty and support.
As of the start of 2023, I have 2 completed series to my name - Elemental and Night Shadows - as well as one ongoing, the Dark Light series. I also have several standalone fantasies and fairytales to help bolster my booklist.
To date I have won 3 Reader's Choice Awards for my work!
It remains my dream to be a successful author. To earn a living off what I love: writing!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 3, 2026
terrific Mafia Romance
I really liked this book, it is the book in a Mafia Romance series that is new to me as well as the writer being new to me too.
This book has a lot of action and some excellent smutty scenes that I enjoyed, I think you will enjoy it as well
I really liked this book, it is the book in a Mafia Romance series that is new to me as well as the writer being new to me too.
This book has a lot of action and some excellent smutty scenes that I enjoyed, I think you will enjoy it as well
March 24, 2024
Rescued by the Mafia is the author's first attempt at a mafia trope, and I have to say they've done a really good job. It's definitely dark and detailed, and a lot of time and effort has gone into building up the world in which the story takes place and the characters too, as we are introduced to Dante and his family as well as his new love interest, Iris.
The relationship between Dante and Iris is very fast-paced and almost rushed, but I felt like it fit Dante's personality perfectly, as he was very over-the-top, possessive, and protective, so his behaviour towards Iris made sense, but at the same time, he was gentle and supportive with her and allowed her to take things at her pace, so it was great to see the different sides of his character.
Iris isn't fazed by Dante's involvement in the mafia at all. Her ex, who is now stalking her, was a police officer and extremely abusive, even breaking her bones! So she knows that the good guys aren't always good, and the way Dante looks after her makes her feel safe and genuinely cared for for the first time. She really comes out of her shell with him, and she isn't afraid to ask for what she wants.
It was spicy, dangerous, and full of twists and drama, and I look forward to the next book in the series.
The relationship between Dante and Iris is very fast-paced and almost rushed, but I felt like it fit Dante's personality perfectly, as he was very over-the-top, possessive, and protective, so his behaviour towards Iris made sense, but at the same time, he was gentle and supportive with her and allowed her to take things at her pace, so it was great to see the different sides of his character.
Iris isn't fazed by Dante's involvement in the mafia at all. Her ex, who is now stalking her, was a police officer and extremely abusive, even breaking her bones! So she knows that the good guys aren't always good, and the way Dante looks after her makes her feel safe and genuinely cared for for the first time. She really comes out of her shell with him, and she isn't afraid to ask for what she wants.
It was spicy, dangerous, and full of twists and drama, and I look forward to the next book in the series.
March 25, 2024
I knew once I had started to read Rescued by the Mafia that this was going to be one of those books that you just don’t want to put down. I am absolutely loved this book and my only complaint was that I wanted more.
Iris has a story and is trying to put her life back together, she is a woman who is hunted by her past. A past that has brought her down, but she is a survivor and got out though she is still hiding. Lucky to obtain a job in a prestigious restaurant she meets Dante, a man that pulls her in, a man who intrigues her and a man who doesnt scare her. When she is left stranded, alone and scared she turns to the one person who brought her a comfort.
She has been through so much and this man Dante (the dragon), a mafia man brings her peace, comfort and protection. He is willing to do what ever it takes to keep this woman safe. All it took was one look and she was his.
These two have an instant connection and I love his sweet name for her “Snapdragon”. I love how his darkness, and his need for control does not face her. He brings out her inner Queen by showing her that she is worth everything. This is a dark mafia read, that is steamy and hits all the right spots. Can’t wait for more.
Iris has a story and is trying to put her life back together, she is a woman who is hunted by her past. A past that has brought her down, but she is a survivor and got out though she is still hiding. Lucky to obtain a job in a prestigious restaurant she meets Dante, a man that pulls her in, a man who intrigues her and a man who doesnt scare her. When she is left stranded, alone and scared she turns to the one person who brought her a comfort.
She has been through so much and this man Dante (the dragon), a mafia man brings her peace, comfort and protection. He is willing to do what ever it takes to keep this woman safe. All it took was one look and she was his.
These two have an instant connection and I love his sweet name for her “Snapdragon”. I love how his darkness, and his need for control does not face her. He brings out her inner Queen by showing her that she is worth everything. This is a dark mafia read, that is steamy and hits all the right spots. Can’t wait for more.
March 3, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Steam: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Mafia
Dark
Morally Grey
Hurt Her And I’ll Hurt You
Friends To Lovers
J/P MMC
Survivor FMC
MF Romance
Dante (The Dragon) is the head of the DeSalvo crime family. He rules with an iron fist and his orders are followed to the letter. He doesn’t do distractions or weaknesses.
Enter Iris Jayne, fiery red hair and all, to meet her Dragon. She’s a domestic abu$e survivor currently on the run from her ex. Dante gives her the safety and unshakable love she’s never experienced before.
Her past and enemies from his present threaten the new couple from all sides. Will they cling to each other or will their love burn out?
This was a fast paced, dark mafia romance that hit all the sweet spots. Dante is over protective of everyone in his charge in all the best ways. Iris Jayne’s character blossoms throughout to become a force in her own right. Their chemistry together is sweet and steamy. A great read.
Steam: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Mafia
Dark
Morally Grey
Hurt Her And I’ll Hurt You
Friends To Lovers
J/P MMC
Survivor FMC
MF Romance
Dante (The Dragon) is the head of the DeSalvo crime family. He rules with an iron fist and his orders are followed to the letter. He doesn’t do distractions or weaknesses.
Enter Iris Jayne, fiery red hair and all, to meet her Dragon. She’s a domestic abu$e survivor currently on the run from her ex. Dante gives her the safety and unshakable love she’s never experienced before.
Her past and enemies from his present threaten the new couple from all sides. Will they cling to each other or will their love burn out?
This was a fast paced, dark mafia romance that hit all the sweet spots. Dante is over protective of everyone in his charge in all the best ways. Iris Jayne’s character blossoms throughout to become a force in her own right. Their chemistry together is sweet and steamy. A great read.
April 6, 2024
4.5/5 Stars
This one was tough for me. I want to give it 5 stars but it's 3rd person POV and while it's done much better than others I've read, and it does work *for the most part* 3rd pov just takes away from the character development in my opinion. It erases some of the suspense and the banter because you're seeing it from all sides instead of one at a time.
Outside of that- perfect book. It's got spice, drama, violence, romance everything you need for 5 star mafia romance.
Dante is equal parts terrifying mafia leader and romantic devoted partner to Iris.
Iris is a victim who through the support of her found family finds the strength to face her Demons.
I'm fully invested in any and all additional stories that exist in this world.
This one was tough for me. I want to give it 5 stars but it's 3rd person POV and while it's done much better than others I've read, and it does work *for the most part* 3rd pov just takes away from the character development in my opinion. It erases some of the suspense and the banter because you're seeing it from all sides instead of one at a time.
Outside of that- perfect book. It's got spice, drama, violence, romance everything you need for 5 star mafia romance.
Dante is equal parts terrifying mafia leader and romantic devoted partner to Iris.
Iris is a victim who through the support of her found family finds the strength to face her Demons.
I'm fully invested in any and all additional stories that exist in this world.
April 23, 2024
The was a really good book. I like everything about it except how quickly Iris fell for Dante. I don’t believe someone that had been abused would fall that quickly for such a dominant man. Even though the author explained it, I just have a hard time believing it. But that in itself is one little detail compared to the rest of the book which was smoking hot! I did love how quickly he just decided that she was his and that was that! I love how strong Iris was, being able to stick with Dante through all of his “business” dealings. The spice was out of this world. The rest of the story was great and I loved the characters! I would definitely recommend this book for someone looking for a good mafia book!
July 14, 2025
He falls first, but I fell hardest!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The beginning of the book was a little rough - it almost became a DNF. There was a lot of suspension of belief on how easily the traumatized FMC trusted and went into a relationship with the MMC. By chapter five, however, I was enraptured. The extreme protectiveness of the MMC was heartwarming. The more graphic, violent parts of the book were written beautifully! Their relationship was adorable and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series! For a first attempt at a mafia trope, I am thoroughly impressed!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The beginning of the book was a little rough - it almost became a DNF. There was a lot of suspension of belief on how easily the traumatized FMC trusted and went into a relationship with the MMC. By chapter five, however, I was enraptured. The extreme protectiveness of the MMC was heartwarming. The more graphic, violent parts of the book were written beautifully! Their relationship was adorable and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series! For a first attempt at a mafia trope, I am thoroughly impressed!
November 17, 2024
THE DRAGON CAN RESCUE ME ANYDAY!
I am a little late to the De Salvo Family Saga and I am so glad I can read these books back to back. I started with Book 4 and it didn’t detract from the reading, in fact it had me reaching for Book 1.
Being Rescued by the Mafia is everything it means, our broken and in desperate need of love FMC, finds that and so much more in The Dragon of the De Salvo Family. Dante is everything you could wish for in a mafia book boyfriend, strong, loyal, dependable and sexy as sin. From his strength, Iris grows as a woman and as the future queen that Dante sees in her. This is a wonderfully written story, with characters to love and laugh with and side characters just begging for their own happily ever after. I cannot wait to see where the De Salvo Family goes from here but the underlying storyline that is inevitably what ties this saga together is going to pack a punch.
I am a little late to the De Salvo Family Saga and I am so glad I can read these books back to back. I started with Book 4 and it didn’t detract from the reading, in fact it had me reaching for Book 1.
Being Rescued by the Mafia is everything it means, our broken and in desperate need of love FMC, finds that and so much more in The Dragon of the De Salvo Family. Dante is everything you could wish for in a mafia book boyfriend, strong, loyal, dependable and sexy as sin. From his strength, Iris grows as a woman and as the future queen that Dante sees in her. This is a wonderfully written story, with characters to love and laugh with and side characters just begging for their own happily ever after. I cannot wait to see where the De Salvo Family goes from here but the underlying storyline that is inevitably what ties this saga together is going to pack a punch.
September 4, 2024
Running scared
I decided to read this book because I thought it was a bbw dark Mafia romance, but I didn't feel the fmc was plus size but it didn't stop me reading the whole and enjoying it. Iris is on the run from her ex and finds herself in the path of a man his total opposite. Dante didn't want a wife, but when he meets iris he can't help but be drawn to her. The dragon and his snapdragon bond and become a unit as he deals with her demons and his enemies.
I decided to read this book because I thought it was a bbw dark Mafia romance, but I didn't feel the fmc was plus size but it didn't stop me reading the whole and enjoying it. Iris is on the run from her ex and finds herself in the path of a man his total opposite. Dante didn't want a wife, but when he meets iris he can't help but be drawn to her. The dragon and his snapdragon bond and become a unit as he deals with her demons and his enemies.
May 2, 2024
3.8 stars! I really enjoyed it! It def felt more like a movie since everything was in 3rd person, but it was enjoyable, kinda low angst considering and a neat ending. There are some trigger warnings, so I would def read those before hand; but anything I didn’t really want to read I skimmed past it. I’m def intrigued for the next books!
August 19, 2024
So good!
To start off, this book has some of my all time favorite tropes!
He falls first
OTT
Wounded dove
Touch her and ☠️
Dante is possessive, but he wants Iris to fly. He gives her wings and strength, no shutting her away. This book is one chef's kiss after another.
I will 100% be binging this author. I'm so glad there are more books in the series!
To start off, this book has some of my all time favorite tropes!
He falls first
OTT
Wounded dove
Touch her and ☠️
Dante is possessive, but he wants Iris to fly. He gives her wings and strength, no shutting her away. This book is one chef's kiss after another.
I will 100% be binging this author. I'm so glad there are more books in the series!
August 21, 2024
Exceptional
This book had me hooked from the first few pages. It was exciting, spicy and intense. It was a story of vengeance and retribution. A story that wholeheartedly makes you cheer for the dark side. Dante is like an avenging angel doling our punishments for anyone who has ever hurt Iris. It was delicious and worth the lack of sleep.
This book had me hooked from the first few pages. It was exciting, spicy and intense. It was a story of vengeance and retribution. A story that wholeheartedly makes you cheer for the dark side. Dante is like an avenging angel doling our punishments for anyone who has ever hurt Iris. It was delicious and worth the lack of sleep.
December 23, 2024
It didn't click with me
It had all the troops i love , Jo alpha protective H and a sweet innocent h but over here more than the H i didn't like the female.
There was no personality to her and i really don't know why did the H fell in love with her.
In short she was forgettable and not at all endearing.
It had all the troops i love , Jo alpha protective H and a sweet innocent h but over here more than the H i didn't like the female.
There was no personality to her and i really don't know why did the H fell in love with her.
In short she was forgettable and not at all endearing.
April 2, 2024
Such a great book! It reminds me of my first spicy book I read a year ago and I so loved the spice, the romance, the characters grow amazingly in the story and im so excited to see where it goes in book two!!
May 5, 2024
he falls first!
I just had to start off with that! I love the he falls first trope and somehow it’s just so much hotter when he’s mafia. lol
I totally enjoyed this book! The warehouse scenes were pretty violent and graphic so be aware of your triggers before reading.
I just had to start off with that! I love the he falls first trope and somehow it’s just so much hotter when he’s mafia. lol
I totally enjoyed this book! The warehouse scenes were pretty violent and graphic so be aware of your triggers before reading.
July 11, 2024
Great Book
I had a very hard time putting this book down! There is much sweetness besides ruthlessness. Dante Dr Salvo is a good boss. He attracts only bad men and takes care of family left alone if one of his men is killed.
I had a very hard time putting this book down! There is much sweetness besides ruthlessness. Dante Dr Salvo is a good boss. He attracts only bad men and takes care of family left alone if one of his men is killed.
August 14, 2024
I don’t think so. If Iris has suffered from physical abuse, then she’d be a lot more standoffish toward Dante. It just doesn’t add up. I didn’t get too far into the story before I found it all too implausible. Therefore, I didn’t finish.
March 23, 2024
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and I can honestly state that I very much enjoyed this somewhat dark, mafia romance. Dante “the Dragon” De Salvo is head of the mob and Iris Jayne’s new boss at the restaurant she just started working at. He’s instantly obsessed with her, especially after she reaches out to him for help when her abusive ex shows up. I liked the story, but if I she were to rewrite it, I would ask for a prologue establishing Iris’ back story more. I struggled the first couple of chapters. Iris is a bit of a badass, and definitely not like the typical ‘damsel in distress’ for this kind of story.
Alpha hero, he falls first, touch her and die vibe, with a found family touch. Graphic sex and violence, but I didn't feel any triggers. Author's website will have specific trigger warnings I am sure. If it were a movie, this would be rated R. 4/5 stars overall, 4/5 hearts for romance, 4/5 guns for violence, and 3/5 flames for spice.
I will definitely recommend!
Alpha hero, he falls first, touch her and die vibe, with a found family touch. Graphic sex and violence, but I didn't feel any triggers. Author's website will have specific trigger warnings I am sure. If it were a movie, this would be rated R. 4/5 stars overall, 4/5 hearts for romance, 4/5 guns for violence, and 3/5 flames for spice.
I will definitely recommend!
May 9, 2024
I want a hero like this one. He was amazing. Taking care of her was so
Incredible and the heat was off the charts.
💗🔥🌟📚💗🔥🔥📚🌟🔥💗🔥🔥🌟📚💗🔥🌟
Incredible and the heat was off the charts.
💗🔥🌟📚💗🔥🔥📚🌟🔥💗🔥🔥🌟📚💗🔥🌟
May 18, 2024
Disliked wishy washy Iris. Dragon and Iris overreacted to Jarod's protection of Iris. DNF.
June 6, 2024
Good read
The mmc instantly falls for the Fmc. She is a survivor of domestic abuse and therefore a very strong woman.
The mmc instantly falls for the Fmc. She is a survivor of domestic abuse and therefore a very strong woman.
August 1, 2024
amazing story line
I absolutely loved this book! Perfect mix of steamy and suspense. Also some drama which keeps you on your toes!
I absolutely loved this book! Perfect mix of steamy and suspense. Also some drama which keeps you on your toes!
August 15, 2024
this was good. pretty standard, although some of the romance was tooth-achingly sweet, but the action & gore made up for it lol
August 22, 2024
WOW! I love Dante and Iris, they're just soo good together! Such a wonderful and beautiful healing love story! Soo soo good and soo soo H.O.T I absolutly loved it! 😍❤️🔥🥰
August 22, 2024
3.5 stars - it was a bit more gentle than I wanted. Very few errors, likeable MMC and FMC. No conflict between the main characters which I actually missed.
August 31, 2024
Loved It!
Rose Wulf is a new author for me, I am so pleased I have found her thanks to a recommendation. If you like a strong male lead character you will love this book.
Rose Wulf is a new author for me, I am so pleased I have found her thanks to a recommendation. If you like a strong male lead character you will love this book.
September 18, 2024
2.5 stars instant love
December 3, 2024
Loved, Epic story, outstanding writing!!
There are not enough adjectives to describe how awesome this book is! Loved it, first book with this author but far from the last!
There are not enough adjectives to describe how awesome this book is! Loved it, first book with this author but far from the last!
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December 30, 2024DNF @ 74%
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews