Reviewing both books together.
3.75 stars. More character development would have bumped this up.
Persephone Black’s Bianchi Family Duet—Her Mafia Bride and Her Mafia Queen—was an enjoyable experience filled with a gripping whodunit, angst that kept me on my toes, and very satisfying spice! I listened to the audiobooks, and Avery Reid and Quinn Riley were perfect for their roles, bringing Caitlin O’Sullivan and Juno Bianchi to life with engaging performances! Their portrayal added so much depth and emotion to the characters, and I especially loved the accents—something I couldn’t have imagined as vividly on my own.
At the start, Caitlin, the daughter of a mob boss, leads a modest life centered around her family but has a wild side as an adrenaline junkie and skilled street racer. Her life takes a dramatic turn when her father forces her into a marriage of convenience with Juno Bianchi, the ruthless, ice-queen heiress to the notorious Bianchi Family. After the briefest of enemies-to-lovers scenarios, their relationship becomes intense and passionate, rife with twists, misunderstandings, and undeniable chemistry. Together, they navigate a world of love, loyalty, family obligations, secrets, and betrayal.
The spice in these books is hot, with physical chemistry that leaps off the page. The intimate scenes are well-written and serve the plot, often bringing the characters closer or helping them reconnect after conflicts and separations. However, the romance itself leans more toward physical attraction driving emotional connection, catering to the mafia and mystery plotlines over a traditional romantic build. If you’re okay with an “I’m attracted to you and we have great sex, so I love you” approach to romance, you’ll enjoy this dynamic. The emotional and physical storylines do come together for a satisfying ending.
While I’m usually not a fan of the miscommunication trope, it plays a key role in the conflict here. Given the mafia setting where secrets, half-truths, and savior complexes are commonplace, it felt appropriate. Caitlin and Juno are deeply flawed and opposites in every way: fire and ice, control and chaos. Their behavior reflects these traits.
The writing was solid overall, with some wonderfully descriptive and immersive moments. That said, a fair few times I found myself wishing for more “showing” rather than “telling,” particularly in scenes that seemed to have had the perfect opportunity for significant character development as well as romance. Still, the pacing and storytelling kept me hooked throughout.
Trigger warnings should definitely be noted, as the story includes loss of a parent, a psychotic break, violence, and killing.
Overall, I liked these books. I’m not sure if I’d reread them, but I’m glad I experienced them. If you enjoy dual POVs, fiery romance, and an intense mafia setting, you should check out Her Mafia Bride and Her Mafia Queen!