Over My Obsidian Heart

by Sierra Marie, Sierra Mojica

Anger. Greed. Humiliation.
That is what thrives in my world. Control over my life is something I have never been able to grasp a hold of.
Now, the leader of La Caìda is forcing me to become his wife with the help of my mother, and my little sister’s safety steers my cooperation. But the problem with being a part of his mafia world is that they yearn to know my secrets. Secrets that can uproot my whole life, secrets I planned on taking to my grave.
I can’t help but be consumed with the question why me. Why me for his wife, why me for this life?
Now I am faced with the most troubling question of them What am I capable of doing to keep my secrets from being exposed?

Genres: Dark Romance

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 24, 2024

About the author

Hello!
I wanted to share a little about me. I am a huge book loving nerd- I read all kinds of genres. Definitely a mood reader! I just released my debut novel Unmarked Grave and am currently working on a couple more books. I have ADHD and am bouncing around the two stories- so I am also a mood writer!
I love all bookish things, but I am also a mother of three and I work full time in the Emergency Room as a tech. I keep busy and I do not know what a day off is. I am socially shy, but pushing myself out there and I am very excited to embark on this new journey!

Reviews

[Avrial || Bookish.and.blissful · Rating 4 out of 5]

~ just finished thoughts

this is one of my first mafia romances, and I think I enjoyed it.

major warnings for rape not between the main couple, violence, attempted suicide with the MC, drug use, child abuse and neglect, murdered more thoughts TK

✻ Mafia Romance
✻ Dark Romance
✻ Family Secrets
✻ Multiple Partners

[Morgan Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my very first mafia romance and when I got chosen to read this ARC, I honestly wasn’t sure if it was going to be my thing or not. I remember I was standing outside with my dogs and decided to read the first page on my phone and I said out loud “YUP!” and proceeded to go in and immediately read the first 100 pages. As this isn’t my typical genre (although I have been expanding into more type of romance books this year) I wasn’t sure what to expect. I loved the story. It’s told through 3 POVs and each character has a very clear and distinct voice. I found this book super easy to read and had I not had an insane work week, I honestly probably would have read it all in one sitting. I love the banter between all of the characters, especially Amelia and the boys. It had some spice, but not an obscene amount. I love that it centers around these men who are meant to be evil or bad, but in reality, they’re a bunch of teddy bears and really care for their people. Amelia definitely gives off like a Celaena/Aelin type of vibe (where are my TOG people?!) and you can tell that her story will be a phoenix from the ashes character development. The story does end on a cliffhanger which for me is painful because I NEED THE NEXT BOOK!

Also- side note- I had to message the author about a few things and she is so sweet and lovely to speak with!

The book comes out July 24th- add it to your TBR already!

[Dee | myliteraryera · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in awe.

[ 5 ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩]
[ 3 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ ]

This story captivated me from the very first page, through to the end.

Sierra had put into words, so beautifully the turmoil and struggles the MC’s face throughout each of their journeys. I haven’t been so captured by emotional writing like this in a while.

Each chapter flowed extremely well into another. You get the TRI-POV which I love. It’s always interesting to understand how each MC’s brain works.
The character depth was very detailed.
The whole story line, with all its plots and twists was executed extremely well.

I felt so many raw emotions, not realising the depth that portrays itself just from the Authors words.
I finished this is one sitting.
I am writing this review at 4am.
I was determined to find out how it all ended.
Sierra we immediately need book 2 please 🖤

Thank you immensely for writing this piece of art.
For including your Author notes. 🖤

I want so bad to include specific details, but readers will just need to enjoy the journey this story takes them to have the full impact of the writing!

[Hannah Fincik · Rating 4 out of 5]

First I have bone to pick with how the book ended…………

4 stars
1.5 on 🌶️
Loved the book!

I was a little sideways at the beginning with all of the jumping around on time frames, but my brain figured it out lol

I would highly recommend looking at the trigger warning page before starting the book.

I loved melis fire and spunk! We love a strong fmc.
Barnette was a tough nutt to crack for a minute, but I sensed his appreciation and adoration to meli soon after starting the book.
Dean is just the golden retriever, and I love it!

I was not expecting the scene between meli and dean though, but I was here for it lol or the scene at the warehouse with meli and Richard!!

You’ve got suspense throughout the entire book, never knowing how the turn of events goes. The good, the bad and the ugly happen, and I would say there’s a happy ending, but.. you’ll have to read for yourself!

[Elizabeth Springs · Rating 5 out of 5]

BESTIE!!!!!!!! Why did you do this to me?!? 😭😭😭

This book is absolutely AMAZING!!!! I did not want to put it down!!! Over my obsidian heart by Sierra Marie will you have you feeling all of the emotions!! I love the banter between the main characters!! There are some twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat!!!! I cannot say enough amazing things about this author but one of my favorite things about her is she puts personal experiences into her writing making you feel like you are there in the story with them!! I need book 2 NOW!!!! Oh man!

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was not prepared for the child SA. When I read the TW it just stated SA. I had to skip the detailed SA for my own mental health. That was the only thing I couldn't deal with. It was a good story other than that. It ended on a cliffhanger unfortunately. I would love to read book two ASAP. I am worried about Derrick and if he will be ok. I absolutely love Dean he is a sweetheart for sure. Barnette is ok I'm still not sure about him. Amelia is annoying because of the choices she makes. A lot of the time she acts like she has no common sense.

[Anastacia · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75⭐️’s

This was a really good read and I genuinely enjoyed the story from beginning to end. That being said, there were definitely some flaws with the writing. I noticed quite a few typos and a handful of plot inconsistencies. But honestly, for an indie author, I think this was really well done. Give this book an editor and a publisher, and I think those little issues would disappear because the story itself is absolutely there.

I loved watching Amelia’s relationships with the guys slowly develop. I do wish we’d gotten a little more time with Derrick though. It felt like he kind of disappeared in the second half, and I wanted to see more of that friendship and connection grow. And the slow burn?? I’m so here for it. We only got a tiny glimpse of Amelia’s badass side, and now I’m just waiting for her to fully unleash it in the next book. I have a feeling she’s going to surprise everyone.

[Brittany Pickard · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

I am bit conflicted with this review. I liked it a s enjoyed it but also at the same time almost didn’t. My heart hurts for Amelia and all the trauma she has been through! I am pissed as her sorry excuse of a mother. Amelia is so strong willed and determined but also so depressed. It was hard to read those two sides to her change so quickly. Anyone with depression understands that feeling completely and its horrible. I liked each of the men, the same but different and all great to be there and protect Amelia the way she never has been before. Talk about a slow burn because all you get are two scenes of spice. This was an emotional roller coaster of feelings. I will say that ending has me invested and I absolutely need to continue this story in the next book.

[SlashReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Over my Obsidian Heart
By Sierra Marie

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/2🌶🌶
-Arranged Marriage
-Mafia
-Found Family
-Child Abuse
-SA/DV/Rape
-Bullying
-Murder
-Suicide and Suicidal ideation

This story was poignant. I was deeply invested in the characters and story. I am very interested in book two as this one ends on a cliffhanger.

Multi POVs from FMC and both MMCs. Flashback scenes help give you more background into the characters' fundamental thoughts and beliefs. I won't classify as a why choose *yet, but it has the beginnings of a why choose.

Amelia, 23, is a deeply troubled FMC. She lives in a trailer with her drug addict mother and 12 year old sister, whom she selflessly cares and protects. Her mother has sold Amelia to Barnette, the leader of the La Caida mafia. Barnette and his men, Dean and Derrick, threaten Amelia with the ultimatum either she marries him or he marries her sister when she's of age. Amelia, under duress, leaves to go live with them, and honestly, it's all downhill from there for Amelia. Poor girl can't catch a break to save her life, literally.

Barnette plays his cards close to the vest and keeps his true emotions hidden, even from those closest to him. His right hand, Dean, however, is more forthcoming and honest in his feelings and intentions. Thus begins the love triangle.Derrick is an interesting third who takes a backseat to Dean and Barnette but does play an important role in the story.

This is a dark romance focused largely on Amelia getting to know her new reality and rediscovering who TF she is after years of living for other people. Turns out, she's a bit of a badass.

[Scotti · Rating 5 out of 5]

WRECKED!! This book spoke volumes to me. I deal with so much as Amelia does. CPS, a mother that never loved me, SA as a child and a mother that denies it. so it hit home. This book had so much warmth and love that she needed so much. The 3 guys are so protective over her and her mental health!! Amelia is just a girl trying to survive life and keep her sister safe and healthy when her mother sells her to mafia king Barnett. She is uprooted and thrown into a life of money she is not used to. She is used to fighting for even food. She ends up falling for 2 men and getting even more confused. Finally one day she cannot handle it anymore and attempts to end it all. I cried with her when she woke up and fell in Barnetts arms. When I say I was up and down with Amelia the while time!! I cannot wait for book two. I need her badass to come back and find Andie. Dean and Barnett I feel will be there guns blazing as well. I can't wait. 🥰🥰

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abso-fucking-lutely loved this book! The plot was perfect! The characters were amazing! The emotional and mental strings were pulled! There is nothing I would change about this book. I can't wait to read the sequel and look forward to more works by Sierra.

[JC :) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3.5, but rounded up to a 4 :)
Spice Level: 1.5 (Slowish Burn) lol

One thing I really enjoy when reading is finding the connections between the plot and the title. The fascination about Obsidian was a really different and interesting detail to the book which I really liked.

Characters: Dean is my absolute favorite and I loved watching the relationship between them grow. It didn't feel rushed at all and I felt like I could feel and appreciate the spark they had.
I had a major gut feeling 50% in about who Andie actually was to her, so I was super excited about guessing correctly and I really liked that twist!

There were some "holes" in the writing, just a few little places where things were described out of order which left me a little confused but nothing major.
The actual book ending and the authors note at the end had me bawling my eyes out. As a mother, it unlocked one of my deepest fears.

Honorable Mention Moments: I LAUGHED OUT LOUD when he called her a porcupine. Idk why, but it was hilarious!
"Knowledge is what makes a dangerous woman. An ignorant woman already digs her own grave. Do not be foolish" I loved this quote!

Thank you again for choosing me to be an ARC reader for this book. I'm looking forward to Book 2! :)

[Davenia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my favorite book. The plot sounded really good but I honestly found some parts to be rather predictable. Book ended on a cliffhanger that I was also able to predict around 50% of the way through 😅

I think if you’re looking for a quick read with light spice but still has some dark themes, I’d recommend.

[Mary Fournier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put this book down! What is a little sleep deprivation anyways…. This was such a suck you in and leave you in a choke hold kind of book. The FMC has so many layers to her and was so real. I loved that she wasn’t made to just swoon right away and that there was building of rapport. And the ending….. UGHHHHHHHH!!!! Let’s just say that I need book 2 to come ASAP!

[Milahtje · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️,✨
🌶️

This was my first ARC read so thanks to the author!

Let me start with this first:

In the beginning it was very hard to get into the story. I didn’t hate it, but it is my first trio POV and I found out that I don’t like that much. The story it self is written good and I actually like the way Sierra writes. You can really feel the emotions of all the characters in this story. The only thing that I didn’t like was that the mafia king wasn’t giving more bad guy vibes. But that’s how I see it.

Also the fact that Andrea is Amelia her child was not very shocking to me, because I found out somewhere in the beginning already.

What did surprised me is the ending, because wtf!?
Even tho I wasn’t that big of a fan I’m very curious about the second book!

Also I wished Amelia ended up with Dean.(oops)
They had so much more chemistry than with Barnette.

Overall it was a 3,5 star read for me.

(Don’t forget, this book comes out 24th of July😉)

[Samreadsbooks28 · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, it ended on a cliffhanger and it makes me want more! This book was a whirlwind and a half! There were a lot of plot twists and turns and shocking moments. The FMC went through a lot and finding out that her sister is actually her daughter and she was taken advantage of at the age of 11 or 12 (since she’s 23 in the book), made my heart drop so hard. Then she falls for not only the MMC but the best friend too. She’s forced into a marriage due to a drug deal from the mother. This was an amazing story and the author has done an amazing job. I’m feeling all of the feels at the moment as I write this but I will tell you this, if you haven’t read this book yet, July 24th is the release date! Be careful of the trigger warnings and I highly recommend it hands down! Also cannot wait for book 2!!

[Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to get an ARC copy of this book. This was my first Sierra Marie book and it won't be my last. This book had me in a grip from the first page. I instantly fell in love with every one of these characters. I laughed and I cried. The ending had me in such a choke hold! I'm still speechless. And I honestly can't put into words how I feel about this story. It has been a long time since a book has left me feeling this way. But that ending! I cannot wait to get my hands on the second book. I HAVE to know what happens. I can't recommend this book enough!

[Little Ghost Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wild ride this was! If you love fast paced mafia romance with some darkness, you then this is for you! This book has so many twists and surprise reveals that will keep you reading way past your bedtime. This book also depicts trauma and mental health in a raw, realistic way that will bring on the tears. Our main character Amelia, who's had anything but an easy life, finds herself entangled with the La Caìda, led by mafia king Barnette Reyes. This story dives deep into Amelia's past trauma and deep secrets while she tries to navigate a dangerous new world. The cliffhanger ending is killer and I can't wait for the next installment. This book officially releases on July 24th and you are going to love it!

[Ashley Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy mf shit, Sierra Marie has done it again. If I didn't have to work, this would have been DEVOURED in one sitting. The characters are amazing and you can really feel the emotions coming off of the main character, Amelia. The mental health rep is strong in this book, please be sure to check your triggers before diving in. I loved every character (maybe not Ramona or the bad guys) even the side characters are so charming and likeable. To learn that parts of this came from Sierras own real life experiences was heartwrenching and I have to insist you read the authors note at the end. Book 2 is already in the works and I absolutely cannot wait!

[Bianca · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 🌟

Wow. This was a book filled with unexpected twists, turns, and heartache. I could not put it down and ended up finishing it in one sitting. This story takes you on a roller coaster of emotions and leaves you hanging on the craziest of cliffhangers.

(Seriously, though, when does the next one come out?)

Highlights/tropes:
▪️Mafia
▪️Triple POV (and done so, so well)
▪️Why choose
▪️Arranged marriage/marriage of convenience
▪️Touch her and ☠️
▪️Slow burn but spicy
▪️Mental illness representation (FMC struggles with PTSD and depression)

Be sure to check the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book as this goes into descriptive detail with some dark, disturbing topics.

I received this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Savanna Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Just wow! I was given the opportunity to be given a copy of this book and I am leaving a voluntary review of my thoughts.

This book had me crying, laughing and everything in between! Highly recommend this book but please please check your trigger warnings as your mental health matters. I was unable to put this book down as Amelia is such a spitfire (gotta love a strong FMC). I feel pained for her with everything she has gone through in her life. Just be aware this book does leave you on a cliffhanger and I just about threw my phone once I finished it!! ❤️❤️ There is some spice but not too much I would rate the spice maybe a 3.5/5⭐️.

[Kim Says It's Time To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy Toledo batman!!!! That was incredible. So freaking good. I cannot wait for the next book. I'm already dying to get my hands on it. This book was incredible. I cannot recommend it enough. Definitely want to read the TW listed before reading. There's some parts that could be triggering to some people.

[Gemma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I NEED BOOK TWO

I was given the opportunity to read an early copy of this book, and I am so grateful.

Since starting the book, I was unable to put this down it has been a long time since I read a book in one sitting, but nothing was making me put this down.

I laughed and cried reading this and would seriously recommend. But please read the trigger warnings first.

Definitely in my top 5 books of the year. Well done Sierra I can't wait to read more.

[Amanda LeAnne · Rating 5 out of 5]

GIVE ME MOREEEEEEE........

If you're looking for a good slow burn mafia throuple romance, this book is for you!

Amelia, who is the FMC, is being married off to Barnette who's the Mafia King himself, in exchange for her mother who's a strung-out drug addict to stay safe from people she's done wrong to. Amelia refuses to go, until she finds out if she doesn't go, then he will take her little sister, and keep her locked away until she's old enough to marry him.

Amelia struggles with a lot in this book mentally so be prepared for some scenes that may be hard to read. She has 3 men (Barnette, Dean and Derrick), who despite taking her for the wrong reasons, find that they all want to protect her and keep her safe. And in their world of crime, weapons and drugs, keeping her safe might just become the biggest challenge of their lives.

There's twists and turns, there are laughs and cries, and it was an amazing start to an amazing series!!!! I highly recommend this read and please check TWs.

Rating: 5⭐
Spicy: 2🌶️

[Mackenzie Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I got chosen to read this ARC I was so excited because if there is one thing I love it is Mafia romances with a fiery main character! And let me tell you this book did not disappoint!
The characters in this book are so well written and you can truly feel all the emotions that the author wants you to feel! I was at first a bit nervous because I thought that this book would be just another basic Mafia romance but I am so happy to say that it was anything but!!!! There is always a twist and turn being thrown at you and I never expected most of the events that popped up in this book! I was in a trance turning the pages just waiting to see what dropped next because I was so involved with the drama! Also the absolute HEAT that the romance in this book brings! I was on my couch sweatinggg!! I applaud Amelia for being able to stand her own to these men because I sure couldn't! The spice is the perfect level and not overly done and borderline concerning like you see in a lot of books now which is something I am very thankful for!
Amelia especially called out to me because I feel like she is a perfect way to tell the story of a girl with a broken spirit figuring out her why in life and her reason to fight and the author truly had me rooting for her this whole book.
A quote that stood out to me:
"I have always been so careful, always waiting for the next shoe to drop, because as I already know from time and time again that shoe is going to be slammed down."
- I feel like this quote is one of the reasons Amelia stood out to me. She truly portrays the feelings of what it is like when you get burned time and time again and have no choice but to build a wall up around yourself! One of my favorite parts of this book was watching that ice around Amelia slowly start to melt and her allowing love into her life. The author did an amazing job in this book giving relatable characters that didn't seem like some far fetched fictional Mafia group but people with real feelings and real problems that you can actually relate to and I applaud her for that because it is not easy!

Please go read this book everyone you will not regret it!! Already counting down the days for the second book to be released because there is no way I can sit still at night after that cliff hanger!

[Kelsey Bell · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’d like to start this review with acknowledging that mental health struggles, particularly major depressive disorder, are not written about enough. I appreciated the glimpse into that dark tunnel, and it was done with a lot of courage. It didn’t feel gratuitous or indulgent, it was definitely necessary for the story. But, my three stars are generous. I would normally had offered two, but that courage to write the tough stuff is worth the three. That said, this book was a rough read for me. Lots of plot holes that distracted the heck out of me… weird motivations, random character connections, odd and unrealistic actions throughout the book. (What about the visit to get pics and visit Andrea? I thought they were on a couch, but they are getting out of bed? What about salmonella with all that old ass food? Why did we have to throw in the MM couple at the last minute? We went weeks without mentioning Andrea and then all of a sudden she’s the most important thing? And the phone thing?) I could tell the author was taking a chance on us, but she could have used a friendly alpha reader taking note of the sections that didn’t make sense. Those moments really pulled me away from the story.

Also - any intimacy without talking about birth control or being responsible adults, that just cringes me. Ugh. Particularly with this subject matter. WTH.🤦🏼‍♀️

[Leah Hortin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm having a hard time rating this... I can tell the author but their heart and soul into it, and there were sections that were stunning and heartbreaking but also a lot that was confusing, unrealistic dialogue (especially for 13 year olds), and a little too obvious for my liking. The plot idea is SO good and the first chapters sucked me in. What was really lacking for me was relationship development with the two MMC's. The (only) two spicy scenes came out of left field which really pulled me out of the moment. (Also, random side note, any time there is not a conversation about birth control, I'm internally screaming.) I think this book could have benefited from another 100 pages or so which is something I rarely say. The cliffhanger ending was just rude. lol...

Tropes and triggers: Mafia, forced marriage, love triangle, detailed SA, alcohol and drug abuse, detailed pedophilia, pregnancy, detailed birth, child neglect, depression, detailed suicide attempt, gore, gun violence, kidnapping, physical violence, bullying

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so grateful for my first ARC to have been Over My Obsidian Heart! This is a spicy why choose mafia romance and man did it blow my expectations out of the water. Truly a 5 ⭐️ read. I urge you to read this book! I absolutely loved the characters and the story had me hooked from the beginning to end. I experienced every emotion you could think of while reading it. I did cry at the end but it was so worth it. I absolutely love the FMC (she is bad a*** let me tell you, she will blow you away!) and the two MMCs 🥵🤭. They are both swoon worthy and you will find yourself loving both of them despite them being polar opposites. This book does touch on some very heavy topics so please check the TW but it is a beautiful complex story with twists and turns throughout & I truly appreciate the perspective it provided on mental health. I am already dying to get my hands on the next book! I highly recommend this to anyone who loves spicy mafia romance/why choose, it will NOT disappoint.

[Oᴄᴛᴀᴠɪᴀ · Rating 1 out of 5]

I am sorry to say that I DNF'd this book.

I really wanted to enjoy this book, having met the author and purchasing the second book. To say I was annoyed by like page 35 was an understatement. One of the things I kept thinking was that I wished the author took more time explaining and showing what was happening in the story than the time it takes to describe what everyone is wearing. On top of it, this book was full of dialogue but not enough plot and what was actually happening to the characters.

The page I DNF'd was 164, in the middle of a sex scene. My last straw was when the FMC start to miraculously squirt after a few seconds, and one of the MMC's starts to mansplain squirting to her with a textbook definition of what that is.

Like I said I didn't want to DNF this book as I really wanted to enjoy the story. But between the random sex scene, the no plot and the editorial errors I just cannot continue this series.

[ljamison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amelia has had a tough life. Her mother has severe addictions which cause her to do really stupid and careless things. Such as arrange for Amelia to marry Barnette the leader of La Caida so that he will settle her debts. Now Amelia is one tough cookie. She has really grown up fighting everyone and truly has had no support or mothering. The one thing Amelia really seems to love and care about is her younger sister. Now Barnette is kind and generous and tries to get along with Amelia but, her prickly behavior keeps them apart. In fact I really thought this was just a basic arranged marriage to a mafia leader, but there are lots of hidden facets and agendas in this book which surprised me. It didn’t feel like a typical mafia book. This was a great story with Barnette and his two brothers Dean and Derrick. These three men have known each other since they were children, they trust and respect each other. Dean is a real softie and he loves to take care of Amelia. He spends a lot of time talking to her and loves to pick out her clothes. I enjoyed this first book of the duet. This book ended with a cliffhanger. Please check the trigger warnings there are some sensitive issues.