What do you think?
Rate this book
Girl Anonymous
The Godfather meets West Side Story in this twisty, darkly romantic thriller from New York Times bestselling author Christina Dodd. A dangerous blast sends a girl into hiding to escape a deadly family feud…
As a child, Maarja Daire saw her mother ignite an explosion that killed vengeful mob boss Benoit Arundel—and herself—to save Maarja’s life. Maarja’s been on the run ever since…fleeing from intimacy, from love, from consequences.
Now an adult, Maarja hides in plain sight as a fine arts mover, transporting priceless belongings. Work for a new client brings her to the mansion where the fateful blast from her childhood occurred. There she meets Dante, the ruthless, scarred and brooding Arundel family boss. He watches her with dark intent…but does he remember her? Will he use her to take revenge for his father’s death? A chance turn of events earns her his trust, when she courageously leaps into flames to rescue his mother. And what happens between them in the darkness sets their worlds on fire, as Maarja recklessly abandons her lifelong caution and self-imposed isolation.
Dante calls the urgency between them Fate. Maarja denies him, struggles against his domination and fights the slow erosion of her resistance. When he vows to end the ancient feud, his hidden enemies seize the opportunity to destroy him and the woman he will do anything to protect. Bound together by destruction, passion and destiny, Dante and Maarja must navigate uncharted depths of betrayal and loss, to create a new beginning…before the flames of the vendetta consume them.
As a child, Maarja Daire saw her mother ignite an explosion that killed vengeful mob boss Benoit Arundel—and herself—to save Maarja’s life. Maarja’s been on the run ever since…fleeing from intimacy, from love, from consequences.
Now an adult, Maarja hides in plain sight as a fine arts mover, transporting priceless belongings. Work for a new client brings her to the mansion where the fateful blast from her childhood occurred. There she meets Dante, the ruthless, scarred and brooding Arundel family boss. He watches her with dark intent…but does he remember her? Will he use her to take revenge for his father’s death? A chance turn of events earns her his trust, when she courageously leaps into flames to rescue his mother. And what happens between them in the darkness sets their worlds on fire, as Maarja recklessly abandons her lifelong caution and self-imposed isolation.
Dante calls the urgency between them Fate. Maarja denies him, struggles against his domination and fights the slow erosion of her resistance. When he vows to end the ancient feud, his hidden enemies seize the opportunity to destroy him and the woman he will do anything to protect. Bound together by destruction, passion and destiny, Dante and Maarja must navigate uncharted depths of betrayal and loss, to create a new beginning…before the flames of the vendetta consume them.
Kindle Edition
First published March 11, 2025
209 people are currently reading
1024 people want to read
About the author
Christina Dodd
100 books5,908 followersUpcoming:
— 6/30/26 TEACH THE TORCHES TO BURN: Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #3 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
New and Now!
—MUCH ADO ABOUT MISTLETOE: Daughter of Montague Christmas novella https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— THUS WITH A KISS I DIE Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #2
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA Historical Fiction Trade Paperback Once upon a time a young couple met and fell in love. You probably know that story, and how it ended (hint: badly). Only here’s the thing: That’s not how it ended at all…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
— WELCOME TO GOTHIC: A Gothic novella in ebook (at last!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— WHAT DREAMS MAY COME Daughter of Montague novella 1.5 "I’m the daughter of Romeo and Juliet. Yes, that Romeo and Juliet. No, they didn’t die in the tomb…" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— GIRL ANONYMOUS “Crackling sexual chemistry and a few love scenes guaranteed to scorch readers’ fingers as they turn the pages." — ⭐️ Booklist
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Readers become writers, and Christina has always been a reader. Ultimately she discovered she liked to read romance best because the relationship between a man and a woman is always humorous. A woman wants world peace, a clean house, and a deep and meaningful relationship based on mutual understanding and love. A man wants a Craftsman router, undisputed control of the TV remote, and a red Corvette which will make his bald spot disappear.
When Christina’s first daughter was born, she told her husband she was going to write a book. It was a good time to start a new career, because how much trouble could one little infant be?
Ha! It took ten years, two children and three completed manuscripts before she was published. Now her suspense, paranormal, historical, and mystery novels have been translated into 30 languages and sold more than 15 million copies in print. Praised for her “brilliantly etched characters, polished writing, and unexpected flashes of sharp humor that are pure Dodd” (Booklist), her award-winning books have landed on numerous Best of the Year lists and, much to her mother's delight, Dodd was once a clue in the Los Angeles Times crossword puzzle. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest, where her 700 lavender plants share the yard with her husband’s various “Big Projects,” including a treehouse, zipline, and their very own Stonehenge.
Enter Christina’s worlds and join her mailing list for humor, book news and entertainment (yes, she’s the proud author with the infamous three-armed cover) at christinadodd.com. For more information on A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA, visit daughterofmontague.com. Her legions of fans know that when they pick up a Christina Dodd book, they'll find the story, "Wildly entertaining, wickedly witty!"
Christina is married to a man with all his hair and no Corvette, but many Craftsman tools.
(Source: http://www.christinadodd.com )
— 6/30/26 TEACH THE TORCHES TO BURN: Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #3 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
New and Now!
—MUCH ADO ABOUT MISTLETOE: Daughter of Montague Christmas novella https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— THUS WITH A KISS I DIE Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #2
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA Historical Fiction Trade Paperback Once upon a time a young couple met and fell in love. You probably know that story, and how it ended (hint: badly). Only here’s the thing: That’s not how it ended at all…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
— WELCOME TO GOTHIC: A Gothic novella in ebook (at last!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— WHAT DREAMS MAY COME Daughter of Montague novella 1.5 "I’m the daughter of Romeo and Juliet. Yes, that Romeo and Juliet. No, they didn’t die in the tomb…" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— GIRL ANONYMOUS “Crackling sexual chemistry and a few love scenes guaranteed to scorch readers’ fingers as they turn the pages." — ⭐️ Booklist
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Readers become writers, and Christina has always been a reader. Ultimately she discovered she liked to read romance best because the relationship between a man and a woman is always humorous. A woman wants world peace, a clean house, and a deep and meaningful relationship based on mutual understanding and love. A man wants a Craftsman router, undisputed control of the TV remote, and a red Corvette which will make his bald spot disappear.
When Christina’s first daughter was born, she told her husband she was going to write a book. It was a good time to start a new career, because how much trouble could one little infant be?
Ha! It took ten years, two children and three completed manuscripts before she was published. Now her suspense, paranormal, historical, and mystery novels have been translated into 30 languages and sold more than 15 million copies in print. Praised for her “brilliantly etched characters, polished writing, and unexpected flashes of sharp humor that are pure Dodd” (Booklist), her award-winning books have landed on numerous Best of the Year lists and, much to her mother's delight, Dodd was once a clue in the Los Angeles Times crossword puzzle. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest, where her 700 lavender plants share the yard with her husband’s various “Big Projects,” including a treehouse, zipline, and their very own Stonehenge.
Enter Christina’s worlds and join her mailing list for humor, book news and entertainment (yes, she’s the proud author with the infamous three-armed cover) at christinadodd.com. For more information on A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA, visit daughterofmontague.com. Her legions of fans know that when they pick up a Christina Dodd book, they'll find the story, "Wildly entertaining, wickedly witty!"
Christina is married to a man with all his hair and no Corvette, but many Craftsman tools.
(Source: http://www.christinadodd.com )
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews
March 17, 2025
This one is a bit of a head scratcher for me. I'm not sure if I'm supposed to read it as a romantic-suspense, or a fantasy or some combination of both. This is not the first time Christina Dodd has thrown a bit of the fantasy/mysticism in her writing, and it does make for an intriguing plot. My advice: suspend reality and fall into the blood feuds, vendettas, and ancient family secrets. My one burning question is: If Maarja Daire was in mortal danger from the Arundel Family why didn't she change her name and move across the country from them? Answer: Then there wouldn't be a book.
Maarja Daire is the last of a Romani family that the Arundel Family has sworn from ancient times to eradicate from the earth. This tale has been passed through the generations and Maarja was part of a Daire plot for revenge when she as just four that didn't go well. Now she is twenty-seven and works as a fine arts mover. She had done her best to stay under the radar, but some things are meant to be and her current job to move the treasures of the Arundel Family has her back in the scene of the crime. She is almost done when an explosion rips through the building and Maarja attempts to save the injured matriarch, Raine Arundel, which earns her the gratitude and a lot more from the family scion, Dante Arundel.
Dante Arundel is trying his best to move the family into legal business ventures. His efforts have met with resistance and not he fears they may have caused the death of his mother. The blast was intentional and now Dante has to figure out who is responsible. The blast also brought him face to face with Maarja Daire. A centuries old blood vendetta and the means to end it are about to play out, if he can keep them both alive.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Maarja Daire is the last of a Romani family that the Arundel Family has sworn from ancient times to eradicate from the earth. This tale has been passed through the generations and Maarja was part of a Daire plot for revenge when she as just four that didn't go well. Now she is twenty-seven and works as a fine arts mover. She had done her best to stay under the radar, but some things are meant to be and her current job to move the treasures of the Arundel Family has her back in the scene of the crime. She is almost done when an explosion rips through the building and Maarja attempts to save the injured matriarch, Raine Arundel, which earns her the gratitude and a lot more from the family scion, Dante Arundel.
Dante Arundel is trying his best to move the family into legal business ventures. His efforts have met with resistance and not he fears they may have caused the death of his mother. The blast was intentional and now Dante has to figure out who is responsible. The blast also brought him face to face with Maarja Daire. A centuries old blood vendetta and the means to end it are about to play out, if he can keep them both alive.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
April 2, 2025
This is a well-written, entertaining, steamy romantic suspense novel. It has a likable female protagonist, an engaging male protagonist, an interesting and diverse cast of secondary characters, mystery, intrigue, wit, a touch of humor, twists and turns, and a satisfying conclusion. Ms. Dodd never disappoints her readers! I listened to the audio version of this novel and the narrator, Ms. Vanessa Johansson, does an outstanding job voicing the characters.
March 22, 2025
Ummm…. This was… a choice.
So, the premise sounded great. It’s billed as suspense and thriller. This was neither. It was like… half baked paranormal romantic suspense… ish.
Tons of plot holes, some plot cop-outs, the “suspense” was not suspenseful…. There was some paranormal-esque vibes… but no real reasoning or answers. To call it a thriller was just a lie. No thrills to be had. Not even a thr.
Look I love romance. I love suspense. I love thrillers. I love genre hopping. This was not a blend of them, but more like she couldn’t choose and didn’t know how to pick so half-a**ed all three.
There are others who have put their reviews way more succinctly than I have here, but… ah… yeah, it just didn’t do it for me.
So, the premise sounded great. It’s billed as suspense and thriller. This was neither. It was like… half baked paranormal romantic suspense… ish.
Tons of plot holes, some plot cop-outs, the “suspense” was not suspenseful…. There was some paranormal-esque vibes… but no real reasoning or answers. To call it a thriller was just a lie. No thrills to be had. Not even a thr.
Look I love romance. I love suspense. I love thrillers. I love genre hopping. This was not a blend of them, but more like she couldn’t choose and didn’t know how to pick so half-a**ed all three.
There are others who have put their reviews way more succinctly than I have here, but… ah… yeah, it just didn’t do it for me.
April 19, 2025
Christina Dodd is one of my favorite authors thanks to her Cape Charade series which I read the first book of and gave it an easy 5 stars. I have been trying to read more of her other books now and when I saw Girl Anonymous it was a no brainer for me to read it. I believe this is my first mafia romance book (or maybe second?) and it is fully unique and steamy AF. I loved Maarja and Dante and the tension between the two was off the charts. I will say I was more invested at the beginning of the book and things did get a little weird, but this was such a fun read that I can’t be mad at it.
The audiobook was decent, and I did enjoy Vanessa Johansson as the narrator, but I think this is a book where having duet narration would have made it amazing. I couldn’t really get behind Johanssons’ voice for Dante, and hearing a male voice for him would have been 👌🏼. Girl Anonymous definitely came across as a dark romantic thriller for me and the body count continues to rise as we get through the book. I did find myself getting sidetracked while listening to it as well as being a little confused which is essentially what brought my rating down a bit. However, if you want a steamy thriller with a mafia family vibe this is a great pick!
I received a complimentary e-galley and advance listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
My Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Audiobook Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Book Rating: ⭐⭐⭐💫
The audiobook was decent, and I did enjoy Vanessa Johansson as the narrator, but I think this is a book where having duet narration would have made it amazing. I couldn’t really get behind Johanssons’ voice for Dante, and hearing a male voice for him would have been 👌🏼. Girl Anonymous definitely came across as a dark romantic thriller for me and the body count continues to rise as we get through the book. I did find myself getting sidetracked while listening to it as well as being a little confused which is essentially what brought my rating down a bit. However, if you want a steamy thriller with a mafia family vibe this is a great pick!
I received a complimentary e-galley and advance listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
My Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Audiobook Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Book Rating: ⭐⭐⭐💫
March 30, 2025
Girl Anonymous by Christina Dodd
Contemporary dark mafia paranormal romantic suspense with erotica and dominance elements.
Two families at war. The last generation. Kill? Hide? Or is there another solution?
Maarja Daire is the last in her line. She’s been hiding her heritage since she was young when her mother and mob boss Benoit Arundel were killed in an explosion.
Maarja can “read” antiques and rare art, knowing the history and legitimacy of the items she helps transport. When an explosion occurs a second time at the same address as Maarja and her team are packing, she gains the trust of current mob boss Dante Arundel. The two are like magnets, sexual drawn to each other, unable to walk away. Dante believes a truce is the only solution as his enemies try to take advantage of his obsession with Maarja.
I haven’t read much dark romance yet although I’m know it’s really popular right now.
I felt Maarja was being coerced or compelled the whole time by Dante and that her feelings weren’t real. There is a “happy” ending to this romance but apparently I don’t trust as easily as Maarja.
Contemporary dark mafia paranormal romantic suspense with erotica and dominance elements.
Two families at war. The last generation. Kill? Hide? Or is there another solution?
Maarja Daire is the last in her line. She’s been hiding her heritage since she was young when her mother and mob boss Benoit Arundel were killed in an explosion.
Maarja can “read” antiques and rare art, knowing the history and legitimacy of the items she helps transport. When an explosion occurs a second time at the same address as Maarja and her team are packing, she gains the trust of current mob boss Dante Arundel. The two are like magnets, sexual drawn to each other, unable to walk away. Dante believes a truce is the only solution as his enemies try to take advantage of his obsession with Maarja.
I haven’t read much dark romance yet although I’m know it’s really popular right now.
I felt Maarja was being coerced or compelled the whole time by Dante and that her feelings weren’t real. There is a “happy” ending to this romance but apparently I don’t trust as easily as Maarja.
August 7, 2025
The cover and description of this book made me believe this was going to be a suspense type story, but it definitely was not. It’s basically soft porn with bad words thrown around randomly and several storylines all thrown together that ends up being a hot mess.
February 20, 2025
I am here for the VIBES.
Is this book a masterpiece? No, not at all. Is it entertaining? Decently yes. Is it what I expected? Also, not at all.
I am a huge fan of Christina Dodd and much of her older work. She has been a huge part of my reading life since I was 13 years old, a little young I know but I had an aunt who corrupted me. I think that this is the key reason why I finished this book in its entirety despite the obvious flaws.
This book tries to blend paranormal with well.. the normal in a way that's just disconnected. The book doesn't fully explain the paranormal aspects of the story and weaves it in at the oddest of times, while insisting that the rest of the world is as it should be. I would have loved if the book leaned more into the magical/mystical/gypsy aspect of the story more, threading it into the entire family and not just our FMC, Maarja. Even the explanation of Maarja's powers are lacking and they only seem to pop up at the most convenient of times, leaving you scratching your head as to how this plot point ties in.
The thriller aspect of the story was absolutely top tier. I loved not knowing what was happening next, especially as someone actively tries again and again to kill our main couple. The book keeps you guessing as to who the culprit could be, except even here I do find one plot hole that I found was easily overlooked until you start to think about it. Regardless, everything comes to a head in a beautiful way, getting wrapped up nice and neatly in a bow at the end of the book.
The romance aspect is a bit... strange. The book leans heavily into the magical threads when it comes to the relationship between Maarja and Dante. "Fate" being used as the excuse throughout the story as to how they ended up together, rushed as it was. They had no ties between them, that we knew of, and yet they ended up in the shower together and were intimate. Then Dante starts insisting that she is pregnant immediately the next day, once again claiming "Fate". This part did make me hesitate in continuing the story, but I pushed through and again,... the vibes were there.
This book has so many flaws but I think that's kind of where the beauty lies. It was an entertaining read and after all isn't that the point of reading? To be entertained. I would liken this book to Fourth Wing, Twilight and even Fifty Shades of Grey in that its not the best literature, but it is engaging and had me laughing.
The narrator was amazing and her voice was so soothing. She even handled the male voices well.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Audio for an ALC of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Is this book a masterpiece? No, not at all. Is it entertaining? Decently yes. Is it what I expected? Also, not at all.
I am a huge fan of Christina Dodd and much of her older work. She has been a huge part of my reading life since I was 13 years old, a little young I know but I had an aunt who corrupted me. I think that this is the key reason why I finished this book in its entirety despite the obvious flaws.
This book tries to blend paranormal with well.. the normal in a way that's just disconnected. The book doesn't fully explain the paranormal aspects of the story and weaves it in at the oddest of times, while insisting that the rest of the world is as it should be. I would have loved if the book leaned more into the magical/mystical/gypsy aspect of the story more, threading it into the entire family and not just our FMC, Maarja. Even the explanation of Maarja's powers are lacking and they only seem to pop up at the most convenient of times, leaving you scratching your head as to how this plot point ties in.
The thriller aspect of the story was absolutely top tier. I loved not knowing what was happening next, especially as someone actively tries again and again to kill our main couple. The book keeps you guessing as to who the culprit could be, except even here I do find one plot hole that I found was easily overlooked until you start to think about it. Regardless, everything comes to a head in a beautiful way, getting wrapped up nice and neatly in a bow at the end of the book.
The romance aspect is a bit... strange. The book leans heavily into the magical threads when it comes to the relationship between Maarja and Dante. "Fate" being used as the excuse throughout the story as to how they ended up together, rushed as it was. They had no ties between them, that we knew of, and yet they ended up in the shower together and were intimate. Then Dante starts insisting that she is pregnant immediately the next day, once again claiming "Fate". This part did make me hesitate in continuing the story, but I pushed through and again,... the vibes were there.
This book has so many flaws but I think that's kind of where the beauty lies. It was an entertaining read and after all isn't that the point of reading? To be entertained. I would liken this book to Fourth Wing, Twilight and even Fifty Shades of Grey in that its not the best literature, but it is engaging and had me laughing.
The narrator was amazing and her voice was so soothing. She even handled the male voices well.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Audio for an ALC of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
April 7, 2025
This book is not a "fast-paced psychological suspense of betrayal and vigilante justice in a mafia crime family". This book is some sort of 50 shades meets a discovery of witches with some twilight thrown in. not for me, or maybe it would've been if i'd known what to expect.
March 1, 2025
Maybe it’s because I just read an amazing suspenseful thriller, but this one totally missed the mark for me. I had a hard time connecting to the characters and I wasn’t a fan of the writing style.
February 21, 2025
The Godfather meets West Side Story? Um, yes please!! I was so excited to read this based on that description alone. Girl Anonymous is a romantic thriller, which made me want to read it even more.
As a young girl, Maarja witnessed her mother and Benoit Arundel, a mob boss, be killed in an explosion. Since then she has been living on the run. Fast forward to now. Maarja is a fine arts transporter. Her job takes her to a mansion where she meets Dante, the new boss of the Arundel family. Does Dante know who Maarja really is? Will he want revenge on her or use her because of his father’s death? But then Maarja saves Dante’s mother and everything changes between them. Dante wants to end the feud between their families, but his enemies view this as an opportunity to destroy both Dante and Maarja. Will their relationship make it? Will the feud end? Will Dante’s enemies win?
This is my first Christina Dodd book and I really enjoyed it. I loved the mesh between the thriller genre and the romance genre. The West Side Story vibes added in a third love of mine. The combination was amazing. Chef’s kiss.
Combining genres into one can be difficult, but I thought this was executed very well. It had a good amount of both action/mystery and romance.
I listened to the audiobook version and thought the narrator did very well.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and Harlequin Audio. This has not impacted my review in any way. Thank you Netgalley and Harlequin!
As a young girl, Maarja witnessed her mother and Benoit Arundel, a mob boss, be killed in an explosion. Since then she has been living on the run. Fast forward to now. Maarja is a fine arts transporter. Her job takes her to a mansion where she meets Dante, the new boss of the Arundel family. Does Dante know who Maarja really is? Will he want revenge on her or use her because of his father’s death? But then Maarja saves Dante’s mother and everything changes between them. Dante wants to end the feud between their families, but his enemies view this as an opportunity to destroy both Dante and Maarja. Will their relationship make it? Will the feud end? Will Dante’s enemies win?
This is my first Christina Dodd book and I really enjoyed it. I loved the mesh between the thriller genre and the romance genre. The West Side Story vibes added in a third love of mine. The combination was amazing. Chef’s kiss.
Combining genres into one can be difficult, but I thought this was executed very well. It had a good amount of both action/mystery and romance.
I listened to the audiobook version and thought the narrator did very well.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and Harlequin Audio. This has not impacted my review in any way. Thank you Netgalley and Harlequin!
December 5, 2025
THIS BOOK IS NOT ABOUT THE MAFIA
March 13, 2025
Wow! This book has all the Wow’s – it drops you straight into the action and never slows down. Everyone is a suspect and the twists and turns throughout the book keep you guessing. I loved the link to the town of Gothic although many of the characters from previous books did not make an appearance in this one. This is primarily an action-packed thriller but the romance between the two main characters is a central part of the plot and the book goes back and forth between present and events in their childhood as their relationship develops. Overall, a great, quick read. Bb The views expressed here are my own. I was provided an ARC of this book.
July 28, 2025
This is a Mafia Mystery/ Psychological Suspense. I read this book by listening to the audiobook, and I did enjoy the narrator. There were parts of this book I really enjoyed, but there were parts I did not like. Also, I thought parts were boring and just not needed. I did like how the book end/wrapped up. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
March 7, 2025
Maarja Daire's family has been the sworn enemy of the Arundel family ever since her mother and the Arundel mob boss were killed in an explosion. Now a fine arts mover, Maarja is working for the Arundel family in the same place tragedy occurred all those years ago.
She's working to move their priceless collection when another explosion occurs. Doing whatever is necessary to save the family matriarch from the fire puts Maarja squarely in the sights of Dante, the new head of the family.
Part old-world customs, part mafia romance, part Romani lore, this genre mashup is just what my reader's heart needed. A dark mafia thriller with a spicy romance and otherworldly touches kept me glued to the page and I devoured this one in one sitting. The complex twists, turns, and surprises coupled with the concept if destiny and fate made it impossible to put down.
She's working to move their priceless collection when another explosion occurs. Doing whatever is necessary to save the family matriarch from the fire puts Maarja squarely in the sights of Dante, the new head of the family.
Part old-world customs, part mafia romance, part Romani lore, this genre mashup is just what my reader's heart needed. A dark mafia thriller with a spicy romance and otherworldly touches kept me glued to the page and I devoured this one in one sitting. The complex twists, turns, and surprises coupled with the concept if destiny and fate made it impossible to put down.
March 13, 2025
Christina Dodd's new book is here!!! GIRL ANONYMOUS
I had the privilege of being able to experience this fantastic book ahead of it's release date of 3/11/25, and let me tell you, GET IT!!!!!! You will not be disappointed, Christina's book has it all intrigue, love, battles, love, victory and more love. The intricate plot keeps you engaged and anxious for the next words.
Maarja works with fine arts and oversees moving her clients pieces when it all goes wrong. Rescued by her client Dante, they team up to...... Now that I have you wondering put GIRL ANONYMOUS on your reading list
I had the privilege of being able to experience this fantastic book ahead of it's release date of 3/11/25, and let me tell you, GET IT!!!!!! You will not be disappointed, Christina's book has it all intrigue, love, battles, love, victory and more love. The intricate plot keeps you engaged and anxious for the next words.
Maarja works with fine arts and oversees moving her clients pieces when it all goes wrong. Rescued by her client Dante, they team up to...... Now that I have you wondering put GIRL ANONYMOUS on your reading list
March 27, 2025
Wow, this was one helluva ride. You step in that rollercoaster, fasten your seatbelt, and have just enough time to utter a little gasp, and then you're off. No turning back. You know the feeling: nervous anticipation followed by genuine fear. You shove your hands in front of your eyes and start screaming.
The exhilaration!
Of course, I didn't scream while reading this book, but I wanted to. I did speak out loud while reading, though. I verbally slapped Dante on the head, quite a lot of times - as did Maarja, so don't you worry - before we actually became very good friends.
What a family! I'm so glad to have gotten to know and love them.
....
And I'm so glad they are not my family, and I live far, far away from them.
;-)
The exhilaration!
Of course, I didn't scream while reading this book, but I wanted to. I did speak out loud while reading, though. I verbally slapped Dante on the head, quite a lot of times - as did Maarja, so don't you worry - before we actually became very good friends.
What a family! I'm so glad to have gotten to know and love them.
....
And I'm so glad they are not my family, and I live far, far away from them.
;-)
March 5, 2025
A dark and twisty thriller romance with a little magic sprinkled in, so many genres in one book can get muddled but Christina Dodd pulled it off! This was West Side Story meets the Godfather meets Romeo and Juliet (without the suicide) in today’s world and so exciting to read. Dante at first made me a little nervous that we were seeing a kidnapping vibe but I ended up loving his character and his protector side. The dueling families and forbidden love bringing everything together with a little violence and a lot of spice were such a great combo! Such a good book, trust me you’re going to love it!
Once again, thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for my ARC copy! This was another hit IMO! 🤩🏆
Once again, thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for my ARC copy! This was another hit IMO! 🤩🏆
March 3, 2025
I loved this book! There is mystery - who's trying to take over the Arundel family? Action packed, explosions, murders! Romance, great sex, true love. This was a definite page turner for me, I hated putting it down when life interfered with my reading. Dante and Maarja are great main characters and their families and friends are well written also, even the baddies are well done. The ending is very satisfying.
I feel very lucky to have received this book early - that had no bearing on my review, I love everything I’ve read by this author.
I feel very lucky to have received this book early - that had no bearing on my review, I love everything I’ve read by this author.
February 14, 2025
Book Review: Girl Anonymous
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Christina Dodd @christinadoddbooks
Publisher: Harlequin Trade Publishing @harlequinbooks Harlequin Audio @harlequin_audio
Thank you @netgalley for my ARC and ALC.
Girl Anonymous is a heart-pumping, action-packed romance that will leave you breathless, a juicy soap opera infused with a healthy dose of sizzling passion and a deep sense of hope. The narrative follows Maarja Daire, a resilient woman who has been rising above her past since her mother and the notorious mob boss, Benoit Arundel, met their demise. Now, grown and living under an assumed identity, Maarja works as a fine arts mover, but her past reemerges when she is compelled to return to the mansion where the events transpired. Enter Dante, the brooding Arundel family boss, whose rugged visage and dark gaze seem to pierce through Maarja's carefully constructed life, offering her a chance at redemption. When fate brings them together, and she rescues his mother from a fire, the sparks flying between them could ignite a wildfire of transformation. As Maarja confronts her inner demons and the pull of her attraction to Dante, she is forced to face her past and the perilous vendetta still targeting her, emerging stronger and more determined. Christina Dodd crafts a narrative akin to a runaway train, replete with twists and turns, as Maarja and Dante's relationship deepens amidst betrayal, vengeance, and passion, ultimately leading to a powerful, emotional tale of love, survival, and redemption. Girl Anonymous is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for growth, forgiveness, and love, tempered with a healthy dose of sarcasm and wit. Featuring a strong female lead, a mysterious love interest, and danger lurking in the shadows, this novel is a must-read for fans of romantic suspense, inspiring readers to hold onto hope and believe in the potential for positive change. Fantastic book.
#GirlanonymousBook #BookLovers #ReadingCommunity #Bookstagram #FictionAddict #ReadMoreBooks #LiteraryJourney #BookRecommendation #BookLover #BookCommunity #BookNerd #ReadingAddict #Bookstagram #Bibliophile #BookAddict #BooksOfInstagram #ReadersOfIG
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Christina Dodd @christinadoddbooks
Publisher: Harlequin Trade Publishing @harlequinbooks Harlequin Audio @harlequin_audio
Thank you @netgalley for my ARC and ALC.
Girl Anonymous is a heart-pumping, action-packed romance that will leave you breathless, a juicy soap opera infused with a healthy dose of sizzling passion and a deep sense of hope. The narrative follows Maarja Daire, a resilient woman who has been rising above her past since her mother and the notorious mob boss, Benoit Arundel, met their demise. Now, grown and living under an assumed identity, Maarja works as a fine arts mover, but her past reemerges when she is compelled to return to the mansion where the events transpired. Enter Dante, the brooding Arundel family boss, whose rugged visage and dark gaze seem to pierce through Maarja's carefully constructed life, offering her a chance at redemption. When fate brings them together, and she rescues his mother from a fire, the sparks flying between them could ignite a wildfire of transformation. As Maarja confronts her inner demons and the pull of her attraction to Dante, she is forced to face her past and the perilous vendetta still targeting her, emerging stronger and more determined. Christina Dodd crafts a narrative akin to a runaway train, replete with twists and turns, as Maarja and Dante's relationship deepens amidst betrayal, vengeance, and passion, ultimately leading to a powerful, emotional tale of love, survival, and redemption. Girl Anonymous is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for growth, forgiveness, and love, tempered with a healthy dose of sarcasm and wit. Featuring a strong female lead, a mysterious love interest, and danger lurking in the shadows, this novel is a must-read for fans of romantic suspense, inspiring readers to hold onto hope and believe in the potential for positive change. Fantastic book.
#GirlanonymousBook #BookLovers #ReadingCommunity #Bookstagram #FictionAddict #ReadMoreBooks #LiteraryJourney #BookRecommendation #BookLover #BookCommunity #BookNerd #ReadingAddict #Bookstagram #Bibliophile #BookAddict #BooksOfInstagram #ReadersOfIG
February 2, 2025
As a fan of Christina Dodd’s books, I was thrilled when I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I was especially excited to read this one because it was described as The Godfather meets West Side Story, which sounded so unique and interesting. To my delight, it was indeed intriguing and fresh.
Girl Anonymous satisfied my desire for a romantic thriller. I really enjoyed the dangerous elements and the dark edge to some of the characters. I especially loved the tie to Gothic, California, City of Lost Souls, which is the setting of my favorite series by this author. This was full of high stakes and heart pounding moments. I will say that it took me a few chapters to get into this one, but then I was hooked. If you want an action-packed thriller with lots of heat, some magical realism, and fated lovers, this is one you must read.
Girl Anonymous satisfied my desire for a romantic thriller. I really enjoyed the dangerous elements and the dark edge to some of the characters. I especially loved the tie to Gothic, California, City of Lost Souls, which is the setting of my favorite series by this author. This was full of high stakes and heart pounding moments. I will say that it took me a few chapters to get into this one, but then I was hooked. If you want an action-packed thriller with lots of heat, some magical realism, and fated lovers, this is one you must read.
March 21, 2025
When I started to read this story it had the feel of a Harlequin romance. Then there was the sex, the swearing accompanied by attitudes of the 1950's. This story is "neither fish, nor fowl, nor good red meat". Not what I expected from this author and not what I was looking for. One of the main characters is supposed to resemble Vlad the Impaler. Charming. Pick a genre, any genre, and then please develop it. This mishmash is not worthy of you.
June 15, 2025
Fast paced romantic suspense with paranormal elements
Dante and Maarje's families have been enemies for hundreds of years following a long-ago act of violence that initiated a blood feud. The pair first meet as young children when the vendetta continues with an explosion that kills his father and her mother. They reconnect more than 20 years later. Maarje is working as a fine arts mover when another explosion targets Dante's home; she risks her life to save his mother. Dante and Maarje realize that they are both in danger.
This is a page turning mystery as the couple tries to figure out who is in pursuit. There are lots of potential villains and twists, turns and surprises. The final outcome surprised me.
The book also has supernatural aspects. The families are linked by an ancient reliquary that symbolizes the origins of the feud. Dante's and Maarje's relationship has echoes of fate and callbacks to a mythological era when love created life and justice triumphed.
And, there's romance. Initially, there's a lot of static and mistrust between the couple. As they partner to escape and fight their enemies, they gain respect and trust for one another. There's also a lot of heat and chemistry and the idea that a marriage may finally end the war between their tribes.
There are some darker elements to the story. Dante's father was a violent, immoral and coercive man. As Dante and Maarje investigate their enemies, they learn more about the father's misdeeds and victims.
Dante and Maarje's families have been enemies for hundreds of years following a long-ago act of violence that initiated a blood feud. The pair first meet as young children when the vendetta continues with an explosion that kills his father and her mother. They reconnect more than 20 years later. Maarje is working as a fine arts mover when another explosion targets Dante's home; she risks her life to save his mother. Dante and Maarje realize that they are both in danger.
This is a page turning mystery as the couple tries to figure out who is in pursuit. There are lots of potential villains and twists, turns and surprises. The final outcome surprised me.
The book also has supernatural aspects. The families are linked by an ancient reliquary that symbolizes the origins of the feud. Dante's and Maarje's relationship has echoes of fate and callbacks to a mythological era when love created life and justice triumphed.
And, there's romance. Initially, there's a lot of static and mistrust between the couple. As they partner to escape and fight their enemies, they gain respect and trust for one another. There's also a lot of heat and chemistry and the idea that a marriage may finally end the war between their tribes.
There are some darker elements to the story. Dante's father was a violent, immoral and coercive man. As Dante and Maarje investigate their enemies, they learn more about the father's misdeeds and victims.
June 14, 2025
It's Christina Dodd!
I loved this book!
Twist and twain, and unexpectedly humorous at completely inappropriate times. While still falling into slight fantasy, it was still so very relatable.
The two main characters had me laughing while they ran from killers, trying to figure out the " who", and completely falling for one another. But, Maaja, she had my heart. Composed, realistic, happy in her tiny "own home", while prosaically moving through life with no intentions of working and enjoying her single, quiet, life.
Dante, I adored him, but well, the heroine runs this novel.
He was stoic, seemingly mean, and completely happy upsetting Maaja's little world.
Together these two took the reader on a ride that unexpectedly was fun.
In between the bombs, things showing up where they shouldn't, deadly rides on the Pacific Coast Highway,fun.
Maaja was always so composed that Dante often wondered in his thoughts. However, Maaja's thoughts were entertaining and completely expected during many of the twists during this couple's rather unusual courtship.
I loved every moment !
K
PS It would be awesome if her sisters had their own stories!
I loved this book!
Twist and twain, and unexpectedly humorous at completely inappropriate times. While still falling into slight fantasy, it was still so very relatable.
The two main characters had me laughing while they ran from killers, trying to figure out the " who", and completely falling for one another. But, Maaja, she had my heart. Composed, realistic, happy in her tiny "own home", while prosaically moving through life with no intentions of working and enjoying her single, quiet, life.
Dante, I adored him, but well, the heroine runs this novel.
He was stoic, seemingly mean, and completely happy upsetting Maaja's little world.
Together these two took the reader on a ride that unexpectedly was fun.
In between the bombs, things showing up where they shouldn't, deadly rides on the Pacific Coast Highway,fun.
Maaja was always so composed that Dante often wondered in his thoughts. However, Maaja's thoughts were entertaining and completely expected during many of the twists during this couple's rather unusual courtship.
I loved every moment !
K
PS It would be awesome if her sisters had their own stories!
March 13, 2025
Love this author. I have read every book. This was action packed. Grabbed you from the beginning and kept you on your toes. There were twists you saw coming and some you didn’t. Loved the “family” aspect of both the mafia and the foster types.
March 23, 2025
Another winner from Christina Dodd! I hope we are going to see more about Maarja’s sisters.
March 24, 2025
Christina Dodd brings the sizzle! I was completely engaged in this novel right from the beginning. Each character is interesting, fully developed and comes alive right from the beginning. The story is fast paced and the integrate plotting provides unforeseeable twists and turns throughout with the best twist at nearly the end of the book. My only complaint is that I want more! What does the future hold for secondary characters Alex, Octavia and Raine? Is there more to the Saint Rees Fine Arts Movers?
April 28, 2025
So much potential in the plot of this book. Very much a twisted Romeo and Juliet but left me feeling like it could have been so much better.
May 29, 2025
A great book that moved at a rapid pace, although additional background into the characters would’ve helped paint a better picture. Would recommend still!
March 24, 2025
Girl Anonymous is a mysterious, darker read with plenty of action packed moments. There's also a romantic side that you wouldn't expect between two conflicting backgrounds. This page- turner has many twists and turns. A definite read if you're a fan of, The Sopranos and The Godfather.
March 18, 2025
Dante and Maarja come from feuding families (think Romeo and Juliet) but fate brings them together in an explosion which sets in motion a plot to flush out the traitors/threats to their lives. This novel is full of fast paced action broken up by steamy sex scenes. The town called Gothic makes a cameo appearance too!
(I received a copy of the book- in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.)
(I received a copy of the book- in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews