What do you think?
Rate this book
The Mafia Academy #4
Craving My Rival
The final installment of The Mafia Academy Series- A dark enemies to lovers romance set at a mafia boarding school for the sons and daughters of the most powerful mafia lords.
Polina Aminoff
At the Sicuro Academy, the Russians and the Italians give each other a wide berth. We’re bitter enemies after all. So imagine my disbelief when my brother announces that I’m to wed Dante Accardi, next in line to run the Accardi Italian crime family. After the shock subsides, I’m determined to save myself. It’s not until my plan is in full swing that I realize there might be more to Dante than I thought. But those closest to me, those who were supposed to protect me have always hurt me. Now I must decide whether to trust him with my heart or if he’ll just be another person in my life who brings me to my knees.
Dante Accardi
Polina Aminoff is a Bratva brat and an ice princess that I don’t think even an easy-going guy like me can thaw. And I’ve never had an issue melting the panties off a woman before. I’m just as unhappy about our engagement as she is, but my father made it clear—it is my duty to the family. Once we’re forced together, another side of Polina shines and I start to think we could have a future together that doesn’t involve being bitter rivals. But she’s hiding something, I just don’t know what. Which leaves me wondering, can I ever really trust my enemy?
Polina Aminoff
At the Sicuro Academy, the Russians and the Italians give each other a wide berth. We’re bitter enemies after all. So imagine my disbelief when my brother announces that I’m to wed Dante Accardi, next in line to run the Accardi Italian crime family. After the shock subsides, I’m determined to save myself. It’s not until my plan is in full swing that I realize there might be more to Dante than I thought. But those closest to me, those who were supposed to protect me have always hurt me. Now I must decide whether to trust him with my heart or if he’ll just be another person in my life who brings me to my knees.
Dante Accardi
Polina Aminoff is a Bratva brat and an ice princess that I don’t think even an easy-going guy like me can thaw. And I’ve never had an issue melting the panties off a woman before. I’m just as unhappy about our engagement as she is, but my father made it clear—it is my duty to the family. Once we’re forced together, another side of Polina shines and I start to think we could have a future together that doesn’t involve being bitter rivals. But she’s hiding something, I just don’t know what. Which leaves me wondering, can I ever really trust my enemy?
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2023
112 people are currently reading
8011 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 294 reviews
December 14, 2023
The Mafia Academy series has been so much fun. I flew threw every single one of the previous books in the series in one sitting, and Craving My Rival was no different. I loved Dante and Polina together! I'm sad to see these stories come to end, but I had a good time while they lasted.
The only thing I'm kind of upset about is unless I'm forgetting something, we never got to see Mira and Marcello ever actually get married. I would have loved a bonus scene with all the couples getting together for it since it was almost like a running joke at how everyone kept getting married before them or even just a mention that they finally did.
The only thing I'm kind of upset about is unless I'm forgetting something, we never got to see Mira and Marcello ever actually get married. I would have loved a bonus scene with all the couples getting together for it since it was almost like a running joke at how everyone kept getting married before them or even just a mention that they finally did.
July 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5
😈 Content Warnings
• Arranged marriage & forced proximity
• Mafia violence & crime
• Mentioned physical/sexual abuse
• Non-graphic sexual content
• Inter-family tension & scheming   
💕 Tropes
• Enemies-to-lovers
• Alpha mafia heir & cold heroine
• Forced/arranged marriage
• Private school boarding setting
• Dual POV (Polina & Dante)
• Slow burn with high tension   
📖 Perfect for Readers Who Liked/similar books…
• Vow of Revenge (Mafia Academy #1) by P. Rayne
• Coveting the Mafia King’s Sister (same series)
• Twice Shy by Sarah Hogle
🧭 Age Recommendation
16+
💗 Quote
“Once we’re forced together, another side of Polina shines…”  
🎵 Song Match
“Bad Things” by Machine Gun Kelly & Camila Cabello
🌶️.5
😈 Content Warnings
• Arranged marriage & forced proximity
• Mafia violence & crime
• Mentioned physical/sexual abuse
• Non-graphic sexual content
• Inter-family tension & scheming   
💕 Tropes
• Enemies-to-lovers
• Alpha mafia heir & cold heroine
• Forced/arranged marriage
• Private school boarding setting
• Dual POV (Polina & Dante)
• Slow burn with high tension   
📖 Perfect for Readers Who Liked/similar books…
• Vow of Revenge (Mafia Academy #1) by P. Rayne
• Coveting the Mafia King’s Sister (same series)
• Twice Shy by Sarah Hogle
🧭 Age Recommendation
16+
💗 Quote
“Once we’re forced together, another side of Polina shines…”  
🎵 Song Match
“Bad Things” by Machine Gun Kelly & Camila Cabello
January 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
''I don't really like this whole heart thing''
Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- Slight OM/OW drama
- One scene with OW (Chapter 1)
- Violence
- D*ath
- Arranged marriage
- Enemies to lovers
- Mention of past physical abuse
- Physical abuse
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
There is a scene with him and OW in the beginning of Chapter 1, the same night he finds out (before he does though) he is being forced to marry an enemy. It's her giving him a BJ - I skipped it.
After the events of the last book, there must be peace within the world and less violence as both sides (Russians and Italians are at war). To bring that peace, they decide to unite two families and that leaves us with the last remaining eligible heir Dante (who we have met throughout the books - and who was also the biggest manwhore) and Polina aka the ice princess.
The forced arranged marriage is something neither of them want, and they never imagined that they would fall in love with each other.
Polina was very very different than the previous FMC's in this series, she is much more calculated and colder. She has had to place a fake persona within herself to exist and Dante sees right through her.
Dante tries his hardest to welcome her into his life, and despite her best efforts to stay away, she starts to see the man as more than just an idiot manwhore she always believed him to be.
Their progression throughout the book was an eyeopener for both and everyone around.
One thing that shocked me was that Polina's twin brother was constantly physically abusing her throughout their lives. It was heartbreaking having to witness it and knowing she never spoke a word to anyone, until Dante finds out.
Book two of the series remains my favorite.
''I don't really like this whole heart thing''
Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- Slight OM/OW drama
- One scene with OW (Chapter 1)
- Violence
- D*ath
- Arranged marriage
- Enemies to lovers
- Mention of past physical abuse
- Physical abuse
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
There is a scene with him and OW in the beginning of Chapter 1, the same night he finds out (before he does though) he is being forced to marry an enemy. It's her giving him a BJ - I skipped it.
After the events of the last book, there must be peace within the world and less violence as both sides (Russians and Italians are at war). To bring that peace, they decide to unite two families and that leaves us with the last remaining eligible heir Dante (who we have met throughout the books - and who was also the biggest manwhore) and Polina aka the ice princess.
The forced arranged marriage is something neither of them want, and they never imagined that they would fall in love with each other.
Polina was very very different than the previous FMC's in this series, she is much more calculated and colder. She has had to place a fake persona within herself to exist and Dante sees right through her.
Dante tries his hardest to welcome her into his life, and despite her best efforts to stay away, she starts to see the man as more than just an idiot manwhore she always believed him to be.
Their progression throughout the book was an eyeopener for both and everyone around.
One thing that shocked me was that Polina's twin brother was constantly physically abusing her throughout their lives. It was heartbreaking having to witness it and knowing she never spoke a word to anyone, until Dante finds out.
Book two of the series remains my favorite.
November 30, 2023
Dante, Dante, Dante…can the playboy reform his ways and fall for the enemy he’s supposed to marry, or will blood be shed before they make it down the aisle?
This story had an exciting plot. The next-in-line head of the Accardi Family is to wed the sister of the head of the Bratva. Everyone knows the Italians and the Russians don't get along. There is even a feud playing out since the former head of the Bratva was killed by an Italian, but the current head and the Mafia Don both think this will show solidarity and call an end to all the feuding between the families. But honestly, will it be that easy?
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewCMR
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
This story had an exciting plot. The next-in-line head of the Accardi Family is to wed the sister of the head of the Bratva. Everyone knows the Italians and the Russians don't get along. There is even a feud playing out since the former head of the Bratva was killed by an Italian, but the current head and the Mafia Don both think this will show solidarity and call an end to all the feuding between the families. But honestly, will it be that easy?
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewCMR
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
September 10, 2025
3.75-4⭐️ If you want complex literature, move along, this IS NOT THAT. This is pure fluff, spice, and college/mafia drama. 😏😂
I knew this was gonna be the best of the series, and I was right!!! Dante + Polina? Sweet, spicy, chaotic perfection.
Are these 4 stars for deep writing or poetic storytelling? Absolutely not. These are vibes-only stars. Fluffy, silly, bingeable fun with just enough swoon to keep me entertained.
Dante= best MMC of the bunch. Even though I disliked him at the beginning, once he started opening up to our FMC, I couldn’t help but like him. He was possessive when he needed to be, soft and cheeky when it mattered.
Polina= mean girl exterior, soft, sensitive interior, and she wasn’t afraid to claim her man (which Dante adored 😏). I love when an FMC gets territorial over her guy—it’s such an underrated trope.
Did I wish the other couples showed up? Yes. Was “good girl” overused? Also yes. Did I care? Not really.
To sum it up: this series isn’t serious or complex, it’s just pure serotonin. Perfect for a slump, a palate cleanser, or when you want to giggle and kick your feet.
Tropes:
• Reformed manwhore x Ice Queen
• Arranged engagement - they didn’t get married on-page
• Enemies to Lovers
• Cheeky banter
“Are you still fucking Isabelle?”
It was obvious Isabelle’s comment pissed her off, but I assumed that it was just because of how it made Polina look in front of everyone. But the fact that she’s bringing it up now, when it’s just the two of us, makes me think it’s more than that.
“Would you care?” I’m genuinely curious as to her answer.
She stops walking and whips in my direction.
“Of course I’d care. This isn’t some arranged marriage anymore where we’ll show up at the altar, and that’s the beginning of things. We’re being forced to parade around like we’re a happy couple, and you messing around with her undermines me. It makes me look weak and like a fool.”
I step closer to her. “You sure that’s the only reason?”
“You sure the only reason you were pissed about Sasha was because it looked bad?”
My jaw clenches so hard I’m surprised my teeth don’t turn to dust. I think back to the way he had his hand over hers and how she was looking at him… squeezing my eyes shut, I will away the image before I lose my shit.
“I’m not fucking Isabelle. Though she did show up at my room the night we returned, offering herself up. I sent her packing.”
Outrage is clear on Polina’s face, and she turns and stomps back in the direction of the dining hall. “That stupid bitch.”
I snag her around the waist and pull her back against my front. “Easy, tiger. There’s no point in going and starting a brawl. I made it clear to Isabelle that wouldn’t be happening anymore. She knows the score. That’s why she was so pissed tonight.”
To my surprise Polina doesn’t try to pull away from me, and the longer we stand pressed together, the more my dick gets some stupid ideas, so I drop my arms and step back.
“You good now?” I ask.
She turns and faces me, cheeks pink—though I don’t know if that’s from the cold or something else. “Yeah, it’s just… the nerve. Who goes after someone they know is engaged? Have some respect for yourself.”
I knew this was gonna be the best of the series, and I was right!!! Dante + Polina? Sweet, spicy, chaotic perfection.
Are these 4 stars for deep writing or poetic storytelling? Absolutely not. These are vibes-only stars. Fluffy, silly, bingeable fun with just enough swoon to keep me entertained.
Dante= best MMC of the bunch. Even though I disliked him at the beginning, once he started opening up to our FMC, I couldn’t help but like him. He was possessive when he needed to be, soft and cheeky when it mattered.
Polina= mean girl exterior, soft, sensitive interior, and she wasn’t afraid to claim her man (which Dante adored 😏). I love when an FMC gets territorial over her guy—it’s such an underrated trope.
Did I wish the other couples showed up? Yes. Was “good girl” overused? Also yes. Did I care? Not really.
To sum it up: this series isn’t serious or complex, it’s just pure serotonin. Perfect for a slump, a palate cleanser, or when you want to giggle and kick your feet.
Tropes:
• Reformed manwhore x Ice Queen
• Arranged engagement - they didn’t get married on-page
• Enemies to Lovers
• Cheeky banter
“Are you still fucking Isabelle?”
It was obvious Isabelle’s comment pissed her off, but I assumed that it was just because of how it made Polina look in front of everyone. But the fact that she’s bringing it up now, when it’s just the two of us, makes me think it’s more than that.
“Would you care?” I’m genuinely curious as to her answer.
She stops walking and whips in my direction.
“Of course I’d care. This isn’t some arranged marriage anymore where we’ll show up at the altar, and that’s the beginning of things. We’re being forced to parade around like we’re a happy couple, and you messing around with her undermines me. It makes me look weak and like a fool.”
I step closer to her. “You sure that’s the only reason?”
“You sure the only reason you were pissed about Sasha was because it looked bad?”
My jaw clenches so hard I’m surprised my teeth don’t turn to dust. I think back to the way he had his hand over hers and how she was looking at him… squeezing my eyes shut, I will away the image before I lose my shit.
“I’m not fucking Isabelle. Though she did show up at my room the night we returned, offering herself up. I sent her packing.”
Outrage is clear on Polina’s face, and she turns and stomps back in the direction of the dining hall. “That stupid bitch.”
I snag her around the waist and pull her back against my front. “Easy, tiger. There’s no point in going and starting a brawl. I made it clear to Isabelle that wouldn’t be happening anymore. She knows the score. That’s why she was so pissed tonight.”
To my surprise Polina doesn’t try to pull away from me, and the longer we stand pressed together, the more my dick gets some stupid ideas, so I drop my arms and step back.
“You good now?” I ask.
She turns and faces me, cheeks pink—though I don’t know if that’s from the cold or something else. “Yeah, it’s just… the nerve. Who goes after someone they know is engaged? Have some respect for yourself.”
Read
December 1, 2023Available now!
Grab your copy: https://geni.us/cmrpr
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/467Glnr
Grab your copy: https://geni.us/cmrpr
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/467Glnr
March 23, 2025
»You're the only one who's ever really looked, who wanted to see the real me.«
★ ★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑷𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒂 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
Her bitchy attitude was funny and refreshing. I liked the way her frosty behaviour got less over time and she opened up towards Dante. And finally a woman with a back bone!
❥ 𝑫𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆 ࣪⋆✮
He is a man whore and like a lot of mafia men he has double standards I didn‘t appreciate. Still he was kind and caring towards Polina and protects her with his life.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
This was a good conclusion to this series although it was not as good as the previous books. Don‘t get me wrong I liked the plot and the characters but the whole story felt like a repetition of the first book: arranged marriage, enemies to lovers and a sassy woman. I read this book in one sitting regardless although I wished for something new and more unique.
Polina and Dante are like ice and fire. Their banter is good and their dialogue funny most of the time. I liked the fact that Polina was no push over. She stood her ground against Dante and knew her worth.
Overall this was a solid and entertaining mafia romance with good tropes.
𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤?
Yes, it‘s a well done conclusion to this series.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓 ׂㅤ𐙚 ࣪ ⭒
plot: 4/5
spice: 2/5
humor: 4/5
couple/tension: 4/5
world building: 5/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 ᡣ𐭩ྀི₊ ⊹
possessive and protective hero, touch her and die, forced proximity, mafia college, mafia heir x bratva princess, enemies to lovers, arranged marriage, man whore x ice queen
𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
#1 Vow of Revenge ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#2 Corrupting the Innocent ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#3 Coveting the Mafia Kings Sister ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#4 Craving my Rival ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
★ ★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑷𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒂 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
Her bitchy attitude was funny and refreshing. I liked the way her frosty behaviour got less over time and she opened up towards Dante. And finally a woman with a back bone!
❥ 𝑫𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆 ࣪⋆✮
He is a man whore and like a lot of mafia men he has double standards I didn‘t appreciate. Still he was kind and caring towards Polina and protects her with his life.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
This was a good conclusion to this series although it was not as good as the previous books. Don‘t get me wrong I liked the plot and the characters but the whole story felt like a repetition of the first book: arranged marriage, enemies to lovers and a sassy woman. I read this book in one sitting regardless although I wished for something new and more unique.
Polina and Dante are like ice and fire. Their banter is good and their dialogue funny most of the time. I liked the fact that Polina was no push over. She stood her ground against Dante and knew her worth.
Overall this was a solid and entertaining mafia romance with good tropes.
𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤?
Yes, it‘s a well done conclusion to this series.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓 ׂㅤ𐙚 ࣪ ⭒
plot: 4/5
spice: 2/5
humor: 4/5
couple/tension: 4/5
world building: 5/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 ᡣ𐭩ྀི₊ ⊹
possessive and protective hero, touch her and die, forced proximity, mafia college, mafia heir x bratva princess, enemies to lovers, arranged marriage, man whore x ice queen
𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
#1 Vow of Revenge ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#2 Corrupting the Innocent ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#3 Coveting the Mafia Kings Sister ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#4 Craving my Rival ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
June 10, 2025
this was STUNNING!!!
enemies to lovers!? arranged marriage!? mafia romance!? ONE BED!?
THIS WAS THE BEST ONE IN THE SERIES WITHOUTH A DOUBT AND ILL RIDE FOR DANTE & POLINA
PS her middle name is Natalia so this gets an extra 5 stars -- i dont make the rules
Okay also Dante is legit the deinition of reformed playboy (there is a scene with OW in ch 1 but aside from that nothing else) and he is like fine let me give this a chance and then falls AND hard! Honestly this man becoming a one woman man was AMAZING to see and the entire plot felt so so so right to them. Their reationship's pace was peeeeerfect.
Also Polina??? hello??? oh we love an ice queen melting away and seeing how the Bratva and Italian mafias working together and smashing this rivalry was *chef's kiss*
honestly 12/10. would recommend to a friend. let me borrow that neuralyzer and wipe my memory clean so I can read it again.
what a phenomenal time, loved her.
enemies to lovers!? arranged marriage!? mafia romance!? ONE BED!?
THIS WAS THE BEST ONE IN THE SERIES WITHOUTH A DOUBT AND ILL RIDE FOR DANTE & POLINA
PS her middle name is Natalia so this gets an extra 5 stars -- i dont make the rules
Okay also Dante is legit the deinition of reformed playboy (there is a scene with OW in ch 1 but aside from that nothing else) and he is like fine let me give this a chance and then falls AND hard! Honestly this man becoming a one woman man was AMAZING to see and the entire plot felt so so so right to them. Their reationship's pace was peeeeerfect.
Also Polina??? hello??? oh we love an ice queen melting away and seeing how the Bratva and Italian mafias working together and smashing this rivalry was *chef's kiss*
honestly 12/10. would recommend to a friend. let me borrow that neuralyzer and wipe my memory clean so I can read it again.
what a phenomenal time, loved her.
June 28, 2025
A super short and simple read that was an okay palate cleanser and and made me roll my eyes so much and was very cliche. I would recommend this to people that don't really want to read something that will amaze you.
Thank you to Avon and Harper Voyager, P. Rayne, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book. This is my honest review.
Thank you to Avon and Harper Voyager, P. Rayne, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book. This is my honest review.
June 21, 2025
Turns out I do enjoy mafia romance and especially enjoyed Polina in this one! I really liked that I could read this out of order and still understand. I think I may even go back and read the entire series in the correct order!
November 18, 2023
Craving My Rival, book four of the Mafia Academy series-
My rating is 3.5 stars.
This is the first book I’ve read of Piper’s under the name P. Rayne and although this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I have not read any of the other books in the series and I kind of wish I had. Maybe then I’d have a better understanding of the way the actual academy runs and maybe I would have seen more Mafia action. So, I would recommend reading the series in order for the best reading experience.
I was a little disappointed that there wasn’t a lot of Mafia activity or much to do with the actual academy in this book. However, I’m taking the fault with this and not allowing it to bear any weight on my rating. I feel like if I had read the first three books in series, I would have gotten what I was hoping for. My bad.
This is the story of Dante and Polina and their arranged marriage and merging of the Italian Mafia family and the Russian Bratva family. The story itself and the pacing were decent but a bit boring, in my opinion. We follow the Dante and Polina as they are told of their pending marriage and why it’s necessary. They are forced to spend time together and by default, they start to get to know each other better. Some secrets are revealed along the way that have the potential to cause havoc…
Polina was my favorite character, it was nice to watch her let her guard down and really show Dante what kind of woman she was. I liked the way the support characters were written and boy did I dislike Isabelle and Pavel!!! I feel like there was potential for the plot twists to be a lot more exciting than it was. This book started out strong but the momentum faded towards the end.
Overall, a decent read, it just lacked the excitement I needed in the story.
I received an advance reader copy and am leaving my review voluntarily.
My rating is 3.5 stars.
This is the first book I’ve read of Piper’s under the name P. Rayne and although this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I have not read any of the other books in the series and I kind of wish I had. Maybe then I’d have a better understanding of the way the actual academy runs and maybe I would have seen more Mafia action. So, I would recommend reading the series in order for the best reading experience.
I was a little disappointed that there wasn’t a lot of Mafia activity or much to do with the actual academy in this book. However, I’m taking the fault with this and not allowing it to bear any weight on my rating. I feel like if I had read the first three books in series, I would have gotten what I was hoping for. My bad.
This is the story of Dante and Polina and their arranged marriage and merging of the Italian Mafia family and the Russian Bratva family. The story itself and the pacing were decent but a bit boring, in my opinion. We follow the Dante and Polina as they are told of their pending marriage and why it’s necessary. They are forced to spend time together and by default, they start to get to know each other better. Some secrets are revealed along the way that have the potential to cause havoc…
Polina was my favorite character, it was nice to watch her let her guard down and really show Dante what kind of woman she was. I liked the way the support characters were written and boy did I dislike Isabelle and Pavel!!! I feel like there was potential for the plot twists to be a lot more exciting than it was. This book started out strong but the momentum faded towards the end.
Overall, a decent read, it just lacked the excitement I needed in the story.
I received an advance reader copy and am leaving my review voluntarily.
November 18, 2023
“you never got a real proposal from me. or a ring that i picked specifically for you. you deserve both. not just an arrangement that other people made for us. you deserve to know that i’m in this of my own free will. because i want to be.”
i'm a sucker for a reformed playboy golden retriever who becomes a simp for his girl, i really am. and who knew, out of all 4 main male characters, this would be the one. this book surprised me, not because the format was any different than the previous ones in the series, but due to how much of it still felt fresh. like i said in the last book’s review, what i appreciate about these stories the most is how female main characters are portrayed. they were all intrinsically distinct and themselves. whether they wanted to be a part of the life or not, it was up to them in the end, arranged marriage or not, their respective others allowed them to be their own person and grow and be independent within the couple and the mafia. one of my niche favorite tropes is in arranged marriages when he proposes for real by the end of the book, and this didn't disappoint. i will miss this series. i really wanted bianca and mr. smith to have a book, maybe even together, i can definitely see them being a thing. fingers crossed for a second gen or spin off with side characters.
* i was sent an arc by valentine pr in exchange for a honest review
i'm a sucker for a reformed playboy golden retriever who becomes a simp for his girl, i really am. and who knew, out of all 4 main male characters, this would be the one. this book surprised me, not because the format was any different than the previous ones in the series, but due to how much of it still felt fresh. like i said in the last book’s review, what i appreciate about these stories the most is how female main characters are portrayed. they were all intrinsically distinct and themselves. whether they wanted to be a part of the life or not, it was up to them in the end, arranged marriage or not, their respective others allowed them to be their own person and grow and be independent within the couple and the mafia. one of my niche favorite tropes is in arranged marriages when he proposes for real by the end of the book, and this didn't disappoint. i will miss this series. i really wanted bianca and mr. smith to have a book, maybe even together, i can definitely see them being a thing. fingers crossed for a second gen or spin off with side characters.
* i was sent an arc by valentine pr in exchange for a honest review
March 3, 2025
Well this was unexpected. Craving My Rival is book four in The Mafia Academy Series by P.Rayne, but the first book I have read by her. I really enjoyed it and will be going back and reading the other books in the series!
Polina Aminoff is a Russian ice princess who has been told she has to marry the soon to be head of the Italian Mafia. The two of them are nothing alike and are both unhappy with the arrangement. After being resistant to it for a while, they decide to be cordial with one another since they will be spending the rest of their lives together. After a few weeks of hanging out, they realize the other isn’t all that bad. But there are still secrets that are being kept.
I was not expecting to enjoy this so much, but I do have a thing for a good mafia romance. This was a quick “touch her and die” read that I read in less than 24 hours… #noregrets
Polina Aminoff is a Russian ice princess who has been told she has to marry the soon to be head of the Italian Mafia. The two of them are nothing alike and are both unhappy with the arrangement. After being resistant to it for a while, they decide to be cordial with one another since they will be spending the rest of their lives together. After a few weeks of hanging out, they realize the other isn’t all that bad. But there are still secrets that are being kept.
I was not expecting to enjoy this so much, but I do have a thing for a good mafia romance. This was a quick “touch her and die” read that I read in less than 24 hours… #noregrets
November 27, 2023
🌟 Star Rating - 5/5
🔥 Spice Rating - 3/5
What To Expect:
🖤 MF Romance
❤️ Mafia
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
❤️ Arranged Marriage
🖤 Strong FMC
❤️ Alpha MMC
𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘
I haven't read anything by this author before but the blurb completely drew me in and I knew I couldn't resist signing up for it. It was so good and I cannot wait to go back and read the previous books in the series. The author did an amazing job at writing a book both perfectly balanced with plot and character depth, and also managed to capture the emotions felt by the characters effortlessly. I will admit the ending felt slightly rushed, but it felt necessary for the story, and overall the book was really good!
🔥 Spice Rating - 3/5
What To Expect:
🖤 MF Romance
❤️ Mafia
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
❤️ Arranged Marriage
🖤 Strong FMC
❤️ Alpha MMC
𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘
I haven't read anything by this author before but the blurb completely drew me in and I knew I couldn't resist signing up for it. It was so good and I cannot wait to go back and read the previous books in the series. The author did an amazing job at writing a book both perfectly balanced with plot and character depth, and also managed to capture the emotions felt by the characters effortlessly. I will admit the ending felt slightly rushed, but it felt necessary for the story, and overall the book was really good!
July 4, 2024
La verdad no me gustó fue un mal cierre para una saga que nunca llegué a disfrutar por completo.
January 30, 2025
My fave book 🥹🔥💋
January 27, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/6.
🌶🌶🌶.5/5.
This was my first book by P. Rayne and it won't be the last. When I thought I knew where the story was going, the authors proved me wrong which was a pleasant surprise and I so love when there is no break up towards the end.
Dante was a surprise in the best way. At first he seemed cocky, get what I want when I want kinda guy but I quickly discovered the best parts of him. He never saw his future to be linked with his family enemy. However he can't help but appreciate his new fiance and he very quickly realizes that the Polina everyone knows is not the real her and he discovers that he really just wants to get to know her and make their situation the best they can. Like he said: " happy wife, happy life."
I loved Dante. While I didn't love the whorish ways before Polina, he more than made up for it for saying no to any girl who would drop on him and removing himself from the situation.
One of the highlights was definitely a scene where Polina wears possessiveness all over her and I loved it. I was cheering for her!
Polina is seen as the ice queen bee but of course there is more to it than just being mean for the heck of it. I love a heroine like that. I think "cold" heroines are the best type of female characters because when you see what's beneath the cold exterior, you're all in.
She wears a mask because she was hurt and betrayed in a way by the person who she should trust the most so now no one gets the real Polina. Until Dante.
I think Dante and Polina's characters were well balanced because when I thought I was sick of Polina backing out on Dante, Dante just didn't let go and pushed through the final crack in Polina's facade which was the perfect point in the story for me. If it would've been a few more chapters of it then it would've brought this book down a bit for me.
Another one of the highlights besides the one I mentioned above, Polina putting women in her place was chefs kiss. I so love a h who knows what's hers and ain't afraid to show it.
Finally when everything came out in the story and I thought we were of the verge of a break up , Dante surprised me by choosing to believe that Polina wouldn't do that to him even thought she admitted to it. He had faith in her and what they had together and he didn't waiver. Loved that and I loved this book.
This definitely makes me wanna read the rest of the series and I plan to do so soon.
* I read an arc of this book. *
🌶🌶🌶.5/5.
This was my first book by P. Rayne and it won't be the last. When I thought I knew where the story was going, the authors proved me wrong which was a pleasant surprise and I so love when there is no break up towards the end.
Dante was a surprise in the best way. At first he seemed cocky, get what I want when I want kinda guy but I quickly discovered the best parts of him. He never saw his future to be linked with his family enemy. However he can't help but appreciate his new fiance and he very quickly realizes that the Polina everyone knows is not the real her and he discovers that he really just wants to get to know her and make their situation the best they can. Like he said: " happy wife, happy life."
I loved Dante. While I didn't love the whorish ways before Polina, he more than made up for it for saying no to any girl who would drop on him and removing himself from the situation.
One of the highlights was definitely a scene where Polina wears possessiveness all over her and I loved it. I was cheering for her!
Polina is seen as the ice queen bee but of course there is more to it than just being mean for the heck of it. I love a heroine like that. I think "cold" heroines are the best type of female characters because when you see what's beneath the cold exterior, you're all in.
She wears a mask because she was hurt and betrayed in a way by the person who she should trust the most so now no one gets the real Polina. Until Dante.
I think Dante and Polina's characters were well balanced because when I thought I was sick of Polina backing out on Dante, Dante just didn't let go and pushed through the final crack in Polina's facade which was the perfect point in the story for me. If it would've been a few more chapters of it then it would've brought this book down a bit for me.
Another one of the highlights besides the one I mentioned above, Polina putting women in her place was chefs kiss. I so love a h who knows what's hers and ain't afraid to show it.
Finally when everything came out in the story and I thought we were of the verge of a break up , Dante surprised me by choosing to believe that Polina wouldn't do that to him even thought she admitted to it. He had faith in her and what they had together and he didn't waiver. Loved that and I loved this book.
This definitely makes me wanna read the rest of the series and I plan to do so soon.
* I read an arc of this book. *
August 30, 2025
2.5⭐.
Honestly, I didn’t have any expectations for Dante’s book, but this really surprised me — I loved it. I loved his relationship with Polina, loved how understanding he is. I do love Dante, but Polina… well, not so much. I hated her plan to kill Dante by using Sasha. I wasn’t impressed with the ending or how things played out, but whatever. Honestly, while reading the whole series, it never felt like mafia romance to me. I know it’s set in an academy, but it just didn’t have that mafia vibe. I’m honestly just happy to be done with this series and finally take it off my TBR.
Honestly, I didn’t have any expectations for Dante’s book, but this really surprised me — I loved it. I loved his relationship with Polina, loved how understanding he is. I do love Dante, but Polina… well, not so much. I hated her plan to kill Dante by using Sasha. I wasn’t impressed with the ending or how things played out, but whatever. Honestly, while reading the whole series, it never felt like mafia romance to me. I know it’s set in an academy, but it just didn’t have that mafia vibe. I’m honestly just happy to be done with this series and finally take it off my TBR.
dnr-not-safe
January 4, 2025Self note:
The H is a huge manwhore, and in another book from the series, we see him having a threesome with two other women. He also kept flirting with the heroine from the first book.
The H is a huge manwhore, and in another book from the series, we see him having a threesome with two other women. He also kept flirting with the heroine from the first book.
November 20, 2023
At the Sicuro Academy, the Italians and Russians are bitter enemies, until the Aminoff and Accardi families devise a plan to bridge peace. Unfortunately for Dante and Polina, that means they’re forced into an arranged marriage that neither of them wants…
Craving My Rival is a great addition to the Mafia Academy series. I have been wanting to get my hands on Dante’s story for quite some time and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. I found this story to well well-written, entertaining, and filled with delicious tension.
Polina and Dante were a force to be reckoned with. Each one of them was stubborn and held an intensity of their own. On the surface, Polina seemed like a cold-hearted ice queen, but beneath the surface was a woman who just wanted to be loved and not hurt anymore. And Dante was just what the doctor ordered. He was loyal to his family and wasn’t afraid to go after what he wanted. Once he set his sights on making the best of his situation with Polina, all bets were off. I loved the tension and banter between the two of them and despite the bumps they encountered on the way, I couldn’t help but root for these two to find their way to happily ever after.
Craving My Rival was a fantastic read from beginning to end. I loved the intensity of the family dynamics and the drama it created. Polina and Dante’s story was a bit of a slow burn, but I think the slow burn paid off in their case. If I had to make one complaint, it would be about the pacing towards the end. I do feel like it was a bit rushed and that certain things were wrapped up a bit too quickly. And that might just be me. I’m the kind of reader who always wants more.
In the end, I had the best time getting swept up in this story and this series. I can not wait to see what P. Rayne has in store for us next!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Craving My Rival is a great addition to the Mafia Academy series. I have been wanting to get my hands on Dante’s story for quite some time and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. I found this story to well well-written, entertaining, and filled with delicious tension.
Polina and Dante were a force to be reckoned with. Each one of them was stubborn and held an intensity of their own. On the surface, Polina seemed like a cold-hearted ice queen, but beneath the surface was a woman who just wanted to be loved and not hurt anymore. And Dante was just what the doctor ordered. He was loyal to his family and wasn’t afraid to go after what he wanted. Once he set his sights on making the best of his situation with Polina, all bets were off. I loved the tension and banter between the two of them and despite the bumps they encountered on the way, I couldn’t help but root for these two to find their way to happily ever after.
Craving My Rival was a fantastic read from beginning to end. I loved the intensity of the family dynamics and the drama it created. Polina and Dante’s story was a bit of a slow burn, but I think the slow burn paid off in their case. If I had to make one complaint, it would be about the pacing towards the end. I do feel like it was a bit rushed and that certain things were wrapped up a bit too quickly. And that might just be me. I’m the kind of reader who always wants more.
In the end, I had the best time getting swept up in this story and this series. I can not wait to see what P. Rayne has in store for us next!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
November 23, 2023
I have said it before that this is one of my favourite Mafia Romance series and I am addicted to it. The author duo delivered everything I expected and more. The read was an emotional whirlwind and I lost myself in it from the first page. This read is a complete package which left me feeling content by the end.
I was intrigued by Dante from the first book and wanted to unravel all of him. I enjoyed getting to know him and Polina. There banter cracked me up. Where Dante puts on a carefree front Polina, hides behind her mask of being an ice queen (rightly so to protect herself and coz she is a queen).
I was eager to know how they would fall in love as they considered each other there enemy. I could not help but fall in love with them as they fell for each other. Dante acts carefree but he is as ruthless as his other counterparts. Polina is strong, independent and resilient. They are perfect for each other and fit together like missing puzzle pieces.
I was swooning over Dante for his protectiveness and possessiveness. Polina had hardened herself coz of her experience. All she needed was someone she could trust, someone who would protect her. He slowly chipped away her walls and brought out her true self. The spice was off the charts and there chemistry smoking hot enough to burn pages.
Dante's story was a perfect end to the series though I cannot believe that it has come to an end. I hope there is a spin-off where some of my favourite secondary characters get there story. And hopefully there is a novella with Marcello and Mira's wedding. I am excited for the next series.
Thanks to the author duo and Valentine's Promotion for the advanced copy of this amazing read.
I was intrigued by Dante from the first book and wanted to unravel all of him. I enjoyed getting to know him and Polina. There banter cracked me up. Where Dante puts on a carefree front Polina, hides behind her mask of being an ice queen (rightly so to protect herself and coz she is a queen).
I was eager to know how they would fall in love as they considered each other there enemy. I could not help but fall in love with them as they fell for each other. Dante acts carefree but he is as ruthless as his other counterparts. Polina is strong, independent and resilient. They are perfect for each other and fit together like missing puzzle pieces.
I was swooning over Dante for his protectiveness and possessiveness. Polina had hardened herself coz of her experience. All she needed was someone she could trust, someone who would protect her. He slowly chipped away her walls and brought out her true self. The spice was off the charts and there chemistry smoking hot enough to burn pages.
Dante's story was a perfect end to the series though I cannot believe that it has come to an end. I hope there is a spin-off where some of my favourite secondary characters get there story. And hopefully there is a novella with Marcello and Mira's wedding. I am excited for the next series.
Thanks to the author duo and Valentine's Promotion for the advanced copy of this amazing read.
November 26, 2023
The final book in the Mafia Academy series as Dante Accardi finds himself engaged to the enemy in the shape of Bratva princess Polina Aminoff to prevent a war. As with the previous books Craving My Rival sets a fast pace right from the start. Initially Polina comes across as a bit of an ice queen which Dante sees as a challenge, but there are reasons for the façade she wears. Her life hasn’t been easy, and she’s suffered at the hands of her twin brother who blames her for everything that goes wrong in his life. All she wants is to escape. On the surface Dante comes across as being more at ease and relaxed with himself but he has a ruthless streak that, when it appears, leaves you in no doubt that he is dangerous. The development of their relationship was fantastic as they gradually got to know one another especially since they Italian and Russian factors at the school didn’t mix as a rule so they knew little about each other. The chemistry between them was steamy and the banter amusing. The overall plot was enjoyable if a bit predictable when it came to the villain of the story but Craving My Rival is still a fantastic finale to what has been a great series. A particular highlight that I’ve loved has been the bonus epilogues giving a glimpse into the future lives of each couple.
December 8, 2023
I am so so so sad that this series/universe is over!! I honestly think Polina was my favorite character of this entire series, and the enemies to lovers plotline played out really well. We got to know Dante throughout the rest of the other books, and he also did not disappoint.
I loved the depth to Polina's character - on the outside she displays like she is an ice-queen, but underneath she is so much more, and I loved seeing her grow throughout the book. Dante was kind of what I thought Dante was going to be, and not in a bad way! The tension was great between the two, and I liked the slow-burn throughout.
Dante ended up becoming so protective over Polina, and I loved the two developing their trust with one another. I loved the friendships and the idea of family throughout (minus Pavel, obviously). I hope there's a final novella with a final catch-up with the other couples, I think that would be nice.
The ending was so stressful and I always love the epilogues, and this was no different. It's hard to rank all of my favorites, I think Marcello and Mira are still my favs, but Dante and Polina were not far behind!
I'm looking forward to seeing what P. Rayne's next series will be. But for now, I'll definitely miss this universe and these characters. Thank you to P. Rayne and Val PR for a copy in exchange for a review!
I loved the depth to Polina's character - on the outside she displays like she is an ice-queen, but underneath she is so much more, and I loved seeing her grow throughout the book. Dante was kind of what I thought Dante was going to be, and not in a bad way! The tension was great between the two, and I liked the slow-burn throughout.
Dante ended up becoming so protective over Polina, and I loved the two developing their trust with one another. I loved the friendships and the idea of family throughout (minus Pavel, obviously). I hope there's a final novella with a final catch-up with the other couples, I think that would be nice.
The ending was so stressful and I always love the epilogues, and this was no different. It's hard to rank all of my favorites, I think Marcello and Mira are still my favs, but Dante and Polina were not far behind!
I'm looking forward to seeing what P. Rayne's next series will be. But for now, I'll definitely miss this universe and these characters. Thank you to P. Rayne and Val PR for a copy in exchange for a review!
November 24, 2023
Thanks to @authorprayne for the ARC copy.
Polina Aminoff is known as Queen Bitch, but it’s all a facade she built over the years. And who would have thought that Dante Accardi would be the one to see through her and see the real her since he’s arranged to marry her.
I really loved their book and maybe it’s my favourite above all with Marcello’s book.
Their chemistry and banters made me scream.
I loved especially Polina, I empathised with her so much and she deserves everything in the world.
Dante is my fav but I knew this since I read his name the first time in the first book.
The way he is with her, I wish I have someone who loves me and treats me how he loved and treated Polina.
I was not ready for or this journey at the Sicuro Academy to end and I am nostalgic, but can’t wait to read other books of the authors and see what they have in mind.
Polina Aminoff is known as Queen Bitch, but it’s all a facade she built over the years. And who would have thought that Dante Accardi would be the one to see through her and see the real her since he’s arranged to marry her.
I really loved their book and maybe it’s my favourite above all with Marcello’s book.
Their chemistry and banters made me scream.
I loved especially Polina, I empathised with her so much and she deserves everything in the world.
Dante is my fav but I knew this since I read his name the first time in the first book.
The way he is with her, I wish I have someone who loves me and treats me how he loved and treated Polina.
I was not ready for or this journey at the Sicuro Academy to end and I am nostalgic, but can’t wait to read other books of the authors and see what they have in mind.
November 22, 2023
I am really enjoying this series so far. I am so happy to finally read about Dante who always seemed to be so carefree and a total player. It is nice to see him grow and to get to know him better. Same with Polina as she always seemed a bit of the mean girl queen. These two really had sparks flying as they had to spend time together as they were told that they will be married to each other to calm the budding war between the Russians and Italians. When they two finally let their guards down, they were quite sweet together, and you can't help but to root for them.
I received a free advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my fair and honest review.
I received a free advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my fair and honest review.
June 21, 2025
This is the final book in the Mafia Academy series. This series was full of all the feels you would want in a Mafia book, and Craving My Rival was no exception. Although I enjoyed all the books in this seeied this book is perhaps my second favorite in the series (the other one being Vow of Revenge).
This book follows Dante and Polina both from rival families who despise each other and are forced to marry for the sake of helping their families. Their story had suspense, heartache, and so much spice 🥵.
I had such a great time reading this series, I am sad this series is over. I am however a bit disapointed is that we never got to see if Mira and Marcello ended up getting married. Overall I highly recommend this series.
5⭐️
This book follows Dante and Polina both from rival families who despise each other and are forced to marry for the sake of helping their families. Their story had suspense, heartache, and so much spice 🥵.
I had such a great time reading this series, I am sad this series is over. I am however a bit disapointed is that we never got to see if Mira and Marcello ended up getting married. Overall I highly recommend this series.
5⭐️
December 30, 2023
3⭐️ | 3🌶️
This one was a cute ending to the series. I received this one as an ARC not realizing it was the 4th book in the series rather than the third. Although these are interconnected standalones, I do recommend reading all of them because there are prior events in each book that carry on to the next book.
Overall, it was a very quick and spicy read. It had its cringy moments and lacked development in certain areas and although I didn't like this one as much as the first or second ones in the series, it was still enjoyable.
This one was a cute ending to the series. I received this one as an ARC not realizing it was the 4th book in the series rather than the third. Although these are interconnected standalones, I do recommend reading all of them because there are prior events in each book that carry on to the next book.
Overall, it was a very quick and spicy read. It had its cringy moments and lacked development in certain areas and although I didn't like this one as much as the first or second ones in the series, it was still enjoyable.
November 24, 2023
Sadly this is the final book in an amazing series about the Sicura Acedemy.
Just like the others in the series it's about Mafia families and arranged marries that never seen to go as planned. lol
This book is about Polina a Russian ice princess and Dante a playboy on campus.
They are force together to make peace in the family after what happened in book.
Neither want the marriage but Polina takes it into her own hands to make sure it doesn't happen. In the mean while they spend time together and both of the feelings about each other change.
Just when they finally about to tell each other they are in love Polina brother interfers and all hell breaks lose. Didn't see that ending coming..
Gladly they get their happy every after.
Thank you P.Rayne for another incredible series. Can't wait for the next one.
Just like the others in the series it's about Mafia families and arranged marries that never seen to go as planned. lol
This book is about Polina a Russian ice princess and Dante a playboy on campus.
They are force together to make peace in the family after what happened in book.
Neither want the marriage but Polina takes it into her own hands to make sure it doesn't happen. In the mean while they spend time together and both of the feelings about each other change.
Just when they finally about to tell each other they are in love Polina brother interfers and all hell breaks lose. Didn't see that ending coming..
Gladly they get their happy every after.
Thank you P.Rayne for another incredible series. Can't wait for the next one.
November 21, 2023
I received this free eARC novel from the author and Valentine PR. This is my honest review.
Ever since P. Rayne released the Mafia Academy series, I've been obsessed and loving each book. Each one I loved for different reasons and I cannot get enough of them. Polina and Dante couldn't be more disgusted with this arrangement, but seeing both of them come to terms in the fact that they had no idea who the other person REALLY was? It was fantastic to see them learn the real person they were engaged to and how they both fell so hard for each other!
The "enemy" in this novel? I seriously wouldn't have called that in any novel. Do unique and shocking to me.
I absolutely loved this book and this series and I cannot wait to see what else P. Rayne cooks up next!
Ever since P. Rayne released the Mafia Academy series, I've been obsessed and loving each book. Each one I loved for different reasons and I cannot get enough of them. Polina and Dante couldn't be more disgusted with this arrangement, but seeing both of them come to terms in the fact that they had no idea who the other person REALLY was? It was fantastic to see them learn the real person they were engaged to and how they both fell so hard for each other!
The "enemy" in this novel? I seriously wouldn't have called that in any novel. Do unique and shocking to me.
I absolutely loved this book and this series and I cannot wait to see what else P. Rayne cooks up next!
November 30, 2023
Craving my Rival didn’t quite fulfill my…craving.
Now I really enjoyed books 2&3. I didn’t read one but never felt like I missed anything by jumping in mid series. However, this one wasn’t quite as good as the other 2 books. I can’t put my finger on exactly why it felt different but it did.
Maybe because I just didn’t connect with the characters as much as I had hoped. Polina was an okay FMC. She’s built up these walls around herself to protect her vulnerability. Dante is a reformed playboy being forced into a marriage with the enemy basically. Their relationship was kind of bland in my opinion and I didn’t find myself too into whether they made it or not which is unfortunate because I really enjoyed the last 2 books.
I think the authors are on the fence about whether to be truly dark romance or keep it somewhat light. This one just needed a bit more for me.
3.5⭐️
2🌶
Now I really enjoyed books 2&3. I didn’t read one but never felt like I missed anything by jumping in mid series. However, this one wasn’t quite as good as the other 2 books. I can’t put my finger on exactly why it felt different but it did.
Maybe because I just didn’t connect with the characters as much as I had hoped. Polina was an okay FMC. She’s built up these walls around herself to protect her vulnerability. Dante is a reformed playboy being forced into a marriage with the enemy basically. Their relationship was kind of bland in my opinion and I didn’t find myself too into whether they made it or not which is unfortunate because I really enjoyed the last 2 books.
I think the authors are on the fence about whether to be truly dark romance or keep it somewhat light. This one just needed a bit more for me.
3.5⭐️
2🌶
Displaying 1 - 30 of 294 reviews