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Marius Monarco has been in a mafia family his entire life. Raised in it, he's known nothing else. When he is brought to Montana by the head of the Carrillos, he is a fish out of water.

Then he meets two men who will change his life. They open the world to him, showing him that the streets of his youth aren't the only wild and dangerous place for him.

The land stretches out around him, hiding secrets and lies. As he falls in love, he's torn between his new, soft life as a partner and his need to protect those men, using everything in his arsenal to do so.

In a cat and mouse situation, Marius is determined to turn the tables and become the cat in the scenario, unwilling to let anything happen to the two men who have stolen his heart.

Come along for the new ride of a lifetime. The prairie is not prepared for this wiseguy!

391 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 17, 2024

23 people are currently reading
42 people want to read

About the author

Rain Carrington

99 books235 followers
I love writing, it's been my dream for many years, and in October of 2013, when my first book went live on Amazon, that dream came true.

Writing love stories that are centered on flawed but lovable characters is my passion. Finding love between people isn't easy, nor should it be. Even in a book, there have to be obstacles for the story to feel real.

I am a mother of three amazing people, and three adorable fur babies. I live in Colorado but love many other places besides my home. One state in particular is New Mexico, the state where I was born has always held a place in my heart.

People and places make my stories what they are. Each character I've written is a part of me in some way. Each place I write is as well. Adventures come in many ways, and each of my stories has taken me on an adventure that I treasure.

Come with me on my adventures and fall in love with my characters, as I have. I promise, you will love the ride.

https://www.raincarrington.com

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5 stars
24 (58%)
4 stars
12 (29%)
3 stars
2 (4%)
2 stars
2 (4%)
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1 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for Cynthia M Brow.
1,307 reviews17 followers
June 15, 2024
Wiseguy is the first book in the new Carrillo Ranch series by Rain Carrington. This story is about Marius known as Dimples, Dallas, and Ruben. This is a mafia/cowboy story, that I never knew I needed. I love the way Rain writes the characters as they really connect with you. There is so much going on in this story, murders, kidnapping, ranch work, and building a kink club. I wasn't able to put the book down once I started it. Some of the characters are from other books by Rain Carrington but that doesn't stop this from being read as the beginning of a new series. I loved all the characters and world building. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book as a 5 star read.
Profile Image for Joyfully Jay.
9,097 reviews520 followers
July 2, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.

2.75 stars


Wiseguy is the first book in the Carillo Ranch series and involves characters from (what I’m assuming are) the author’s other series.* The first three chapters introduce over over a dozen named characters and the people they’re sleeping with, married to, or in a relationship with, and … it’s a lot. As this is the first book in a series, it’s expected to have more focus on introductions than actions, but I think this book needed fewer side characters.

Personally, I didn’t enjoy the characters or the pace, and while both the writing and plot were solid enough, they just didn’t give me the connection I wanted. If you’re a fan of this author, you stand a good chance of enjoying this book. However, there wasn’t enough cowboy, enough mafia, or enough romance in it for me.

Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.


Profile Image for Sue Milkovich.
1,734 reviews16 followers
June 20, 2024
THIS IS JUST AMAZING!!!!!

CARRILLO RANCH Book #1 is more than 5 Stars for me. This is the beginning of a new Series by RAIN CARRINGTON. It has Mobsters Dante and Blaine Carrillo, building their paradise in the wilds. Main characters Dallas Ranch Manager, Ruben Ranch Hand and Marius Mafia Security. All of these characters have appeared in Rain Carrington books at one time or another. Beloved characters from previous series or stand alones. I've read them all but you don't have to, to enjoy this book. This is a situation that encompasses honor, love, deep kink and snarky subs. Men, Men and more Men. Not to mention no nonsense women who keep them in their place. I hope that everyone enjoys this Book as much as I did. Come meet the men of Carrillo Ranch, it's going to be a wild ride. I can't wait to see how the big dreams of Dante and Blaine are carried out. This has a happily ever after and I loved it. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Jeanette Waters.
2,029 reviews5 followers
June 21, 2024
I haven't read the prior series(s) that introduced many of the characters that populated the early chapters of this book. It was a bit of a slow starter for me. Too many "this is so and so. and this is his husband"s. Dante and Blaine Carrillo (from one of the other series) buy a 64 acre ranch in nowhere Montana. The plan is for it to be their retirement from the Mob home, an inclusive resort for gay and trans... and for families... with a kink club. They're secondaries, or maybe secondary mains. This book's other main characters are, Dallas McIntyre, their ranch manager, Ruben Salazar, one of his ranch hands and Marius Monarco, a wiseguy from an Ohio Carrillo affiliated family.
A bit of angst. 'He works for me' (Ruben) and 'he annoys the f out of me' (Marius). Miscommunications, misplaced jealousy. The book is a third over before Dallas gets his head out of the sand. Just as the story heats up with a possible serial killer, things heat up in the bedroom.
Is there a thing as to much sexy times? This book definitely pushes those boundaries. It's all 'sex, sex, sex... and the mystery. Sex, sex, sex, sex and a little more mystery'. Yes, the sex is kinky, sizzling and quite original. The ending was a little rushed (more content, less sex please). There is a cliffhanger, as the mystery deepens. And a bit of a HFN for the throuple.
The sex, the BDSM, is creative. But I was more interested in the developing relationship. Could have done with a bit more. Which doesn't mean I didn't enjoy reading the book. And dousing my kindle when it started melting from their heat.
Not too quick a read. It can be enjoyed as a stand alone. But my rec would be to read the prior series.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my review.
Profile Image for Fay MMBookworm.
3,083 reviews66 followers
September 1, 2024
❤️🔥A great book for the start of a new series.
A great start as a little prelude of what was to come in a teaser.
Dante, in his 40s was married to Blaine, 34 years, are building a resort where men could be themselves after leaving the Mafia troubles behind while others hadn’t in this.
This book has a number of characters to keep track of as to who was who and how they fitted in to the story.
I loved Dallas at the start as he got them all organized into 3 sections to work in the buildings.
Jace (a single Dom and manager of the Resort), Tango (Security), Roland was the IT guy. Jet well he is the easiest to remember being the vet lol and there are lots more that feature into a non stop story.
This was Dallas, Reubin and Marius romance; the latter two were both mafia men.

It’s not long before things get interesting when the previous owner is missing and Sheriff Ron pays them a visit. Then a mysterious boy in an old photo stumped them who he was.
The dramas start with missing people and then murders which the sheriff takes more visits to the ranch. I didn’t much like old Ronny as he targeted Dante’s ranch with an alternative motive.

Marius and Reubin are great together in their plan to get Dallas. They team up but Dallas is shy about being in a relationship with both especially since he's their boss.
Non-stop things are happening in this story that kept me reading. I loved the chemistry between the three of them. Sexy scenes heat up the sheets, Wiseguy is brilliantly written that kept me glued to the ending.
The book has a great ending and I can't wait to jump into the next book.

*Also Reviewed on mmbookwormreviews.com
Profile Image for Amanda Winter.
838 reviews22 followers
June 25, 2024
Wiseguy is my first read from Rain Carrington and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This novel kicks off a new series that intriguingly combines the worlds of the mafia and cowboys. It’s an MMM story brimming with steamy scenes and a gripping mystery that kept me hooked.

The world-building and character development are impressive. The two distinct worlds were skillfully merged, creating a rich and immersive setting that feels both authentic and exciting. I particularly liked the dynamic between Marius, Ruben and Dallas. Their chemistry is palpable and their interactions are compelling, making their relationship a central highlight of the story.

Marius brings the gritty edge of the mafia, Ruben adds depth with his enigmatic presence and Dallas provides the rugged charm of the cowboy lifestyle. Together, they navigate a web of secrets, danger, and desire, making for a thrilling and passionate read.

The mystery element adds an extra layer of intrigue, enhancing the plot and keeping you guessing until the end. I loved the blend romance, suspense and drama, making this book a page-turner.

I’m looking forward to the next installment in the series. If it's anything like Wiseguy, it promises to be an exciting continuation of a unique and captivating story. This book is a must-read for fans of steamy romances with a twist of mystery and a dash of danger.
Profile Image for Mandy (MP Book Reviews).
4,935 reviews46 followers
July 28, 2024
Marius Monarco has been in a mafia family his entire life. Raised in it, he's known nothing else. When he is brought to Montana by the head of the Carrillos, he is a fish out of water. Then he meets two men who will change his life. They open the world to him, showing him that the streets of his youth aren't the only wild and dangerous place for him. The land stretches out around him, hiding secrets and lies. As he falls in love, he's torn between his new, soft life as a partner and his need to protect those men, using everything in his arsenal to do so. In a cat-and-mouse situation, Marius is determined to turn the tables and become the cat in the scenario, unwilling to let anything happen to the two men who have stolen his heart. The prairie is not prepared for this wiseguy!

This was a good story as the mafia man who is totally at home on the streets had to learn new skills as he became a total fish out of water at a ranch. Thankfully he fell in love with two cowboys who were able to help him (while trying not to laugh). As the whole team struggled to work out who was behind murders and kidnappings, we got to learn more about all the characters in this story. Easy to read, feel and understand. This is an MMM story with mature content and a BSDM-like D/s dynamic.
Profile Image for Judy.
234 reviews
June 25, 2024
I really enjoy Rain Carringtons books. I have read several of her series and each one gets better. If you enjoy men that work hard, play hard and love hard these books are for you. It doesn't hurt that they are "hot" and include responsible BDSM.

I think I found my first Rain Carrington book through a promotion. Unknowingly I read several series out of order (I'm OCD about reading in order) but couldn't put them down.

When I saw that Wiseguy was coming out and one of the "main" side couples had a book set 15 years prior (Dante & Blaine The Family) I had to read it. It was great. (Watch the trigger warnings ⚠️ if you have any).

Sorry I got side tracked, Wiseguy was wonderful. The start of a great, big series. Our three MC's are Dallas, Ruben and Marius (our Wiseguy). Three strong men who each deserve alittle love in their life. They have to fight through some preconceived ideas and of course a villian or two but they eventually get their HEA. The set-up for the series is great and I can't wait to read more about the guys on Carrillo Ranch.

I highly recommend this book. Enjoy!!
Profile Image for Theresa Derwin.
1,136 reviews43 followers
June 26, 2024
Murder He Rode
Wiseguy (Carillo Ranch book 1)
Author: Rain Carrington

From what I can tell, this is book one in a spin off from the Hell Bent for Leather series, featuring characters from previous books.
The concept is interesting and quite different; Dante (a mob boss) is setting up a gay BDSM resort in cowboy country, with Cowpokes, a cowboy themed kink club.
He's hired ranch hand Dallas to be the ranch manager after buying the property from an old guy called Harrison.
Harrison has gone missing.
Dallas has had a crush on Ruben for a while, and when one of the mafia guys Marius turns up to work he's attracted to him too.
Amidst it all there a large ranch crew, the local sherrif daily and another woman from the town gone missing.
It isn't long before there's a dead body, and despite Dallas being hesitant, a poly relationship starts between them.
Whilst I liked some of the characters, the ideas and story arcs, and the kink stuff is good, there were quite a few structure, grammatical and pacing issues that detracted from the enjoyment of the book.
A strong edit would resolve some of the issues and the ideas have a lot of potential.
A good read but not a great one.
Profile Image for Suzanne Irving.
2,730 reviews24 followers
June 27, 2024
Wild ride of a story

Rain Carrington writes marvelous cowboy stories especially and this one crosses over with mafia and the Hell Bent for Leather books. You don’t have to have read any of the other books that adjoin this new series but you might have a hard time keeping everyone straight. You don’t really need to know all their backstories to enjoy this crossover type of book though because you can just enjoy the tale of Marius, Ruben and Dallas. That’s one of the other things that Ms Carrington is good at, threesoms, triads, throuples, whatever you want to call them. She is is really good at having the guys thinking about how they feel. Does that make sense? I mean that she writes their internal thoughts especially how conflicted they feel. Add in k1nk and lots of s€xy times and you have another great read. There is a big mystery running through this book that drives a lot of what is going on but I will let you discover that yourself. Have fun ya’ll.
Profile Image for Malissa Hilton.
627 reviews2 followers
July 3, 2024
Wonderful

Cowboys, Ranch hands, and Mobsters. Yep I’m here for it. I have read a lot of Rain Carrington’s Books and I just want to say she hasn’t disappointed. Wiseguy is tremendous. This book is strong, sweet, rough, exciting, and suspenseful. You will laugh, get mad, want to throw you kindle or phone (whichever you are reading from). The emotions are real. Three unlikely guys form a relationship. Dallas, the ranch manager did his best to ward off Marius the mobster, and Ruben his ranch hand. But with these two determined men, Dallas finds himself in the middle of a relationship and he’s not even mad about it. All they want to do is keep one another safe along with the entire ranch from a killer. This book is five stars ⭐️ straight up, hands down. Way to go Rain Carrington! 💜
Profile Image for Deb Kel.
2,448 reviews8 followers
June 25, 2024
Wiseguy is the first book in the new Carrillo Ranch series which if this book is anything to go by is going to be another goodun by Rain. Even though this is a new series we do see characters from previous books which I felt was a nice touch but doesn't impact you following if you haven't met before! Such a well written storyline that had everything Mafia/Cowboy trope, murder, kidnapping and of course brilliant characters! As usual Rain has excelled at character development which really helps you relate and bond to the characters. Absolutely loved Marius, Dallas, and Ruben - so much mmm heat! Looking forward to the next book in the series
Profile Image for Nina Diab.
5,306 reviews51 followers
July 16, 2024
A mafia/cowboy MMM romance and boy was it steamy! I loved the setting of Carrillo Ranch.

'They were building a resort. A massive resort, a place where men could get away from city living and have some fun, and at night, head to the kink club disguised as a barn. That was the hope and dream of the smooth Italian man walking on the dark ranch that first night.'

Yup- I'm here for it! A lot of characters were thrown at me early on and I kind of zoned out who was who was who. I liked our triad Marius, Dallas, and Ruben. I liked the dynamic between them and their chemistry sizzled. I also liked their banter. 4 stars.
Profile Image for K-Me.
2,845 reviews
June 24, 2024
Very excited about this spinoff series. I do recommend reading Rain's series in order. A phenomenal job of keeping characters flowing across series. This first book gives a background and spends some good time letting us get to know all the various surrounding characters. So descriptive of our main three men as well. I could picture pretty Dallas and his guy's Ruben and Marius. Tons of spice between three very real men from various backgrounds. I really loved the Montana ranch setting as a getaway for those who needed a break and a safe place to enjoy the lifestyle.
Profile Image for Ida Umphers.
5,543 reviews48 followers
June 26, 2024
Absolutely loved seeing the way this book meshed with others I've enjoyed by Rain Carrington. I loved the details about running the ranch and the plans Dante and Blaine have for it. It was also interesting to watch Marius try to fit into this new environment and then find he's going to need some skills in Montana he might have thought he could leave behind. The relationships are great with plenty of steam as well as emotionally satisfying. I'm really looking forward to more in this series.
Profile Image for Bkwrm24.
1,890 reviews14 followers
June 29, 2024
4.5 Stars ⭐️

This book was fantastic, this series is most definitely going to be something that I will gobble up! Rain Carrington had me hooked on the Mafia meets cowboy trope without even reading one word, after reading holy hell I'm done!!! It had action, adventure, sweet times and the sexy times will light the world on fire 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥. I cannot wait to see what happens next 😬.

* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Profile Image for Kendra Patterson.
996 reviews11 followers
June 15, 2024
This is a well written book that had me hooked from page one. The world and character building are well done. The chemistry between the characters is felt. The story is good and has some nice twists. Marius has some adjustments to make but he'll do it to have what he needs. The three MCs blend well together. Definitely worth the read.
2,325 reviews16 followers
June 23, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I enjoyed it, it’s the first book of a new series bringing mafia and cowboys together this is a mmm story with a lot of steamy scenes, we also have a mystery as well. The world building and characters were good and I did like Marius, Ruben and Dallas together and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
16.7k reviews155 followers
June 25, 2024
He has been a mafia man since he was born and he is now going to be sent to a new city. There he will meet two different men and he will learn a new way to live. How will it all go? Will he learn a new way to live? See how it will all go
Profile Image for Natasha Lynn Harris.
1,976 reviews1 follower
June 30, 2024
New to Me Author

An MMM story with steam, an amazing love story and a mystery that kept me turning the pages. The world building and characters were good and Marius, Ruben and Dallas, were absolutely fantastic together.
Profile Image for Sharon.
925 reviews
July 1, 2024
Rain Carrington writes great cowboy books. This one is absolutely is in the top. There is so much going on here. We have the wilds of the west, murder, kisses, lies and stealing, hot makeout dates, no nonsense women and the start of a kink club. Highly recommended.
1,060 reviews1 follower
July 1, 2024
Who knew I wanted a mafia/cowboy story?!?????!! I didn't want to put this book down and while I hate cliffhangers, I will wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Dee.
734 reviews22 followers
July 6, 2024
This MMM book is a unique combo. We have mafia, cowboys, and Kink clubs. There's murder and mayhem to keep you engaged.
925 reviews5 followers
July 12, 2024
Good start to a new series. I enjoyed reading about all the characters and thought it was well written. Look forward to reading the next book. I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
Profile Image for Cathy Brockman.
Author 5 books95 followers
December 11, 2024
This book has a lot going and is tge beginning of a series so lots of buildup...and building!
Dante is building an entire resort with a kink club as centerpiece. Dante is a Mobster that is creating his own town and hoping to open by Pride but lots of things get in the way, such as missing people and some dead bodies.
There are lots of appearances from characters from other of Rain Carrington's series and though you'd understand the characters better it's not necessary you read all the books ( but you will want to!)
There's lots of heat and kink as Dallas, Marius and Ruben develops a relationship.
If you like Mobsters ooops wiseguys, cowboys, construction workers, comouter geeks( hackers) with lots of kink.. ooh baby put out the fires oh wait! No firemen! This needs fixed!
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