The Mafia does not allow for fairytales. There is no place in the Mafia for weakness. No place for love.
Amelia Conte I live on the edge of shadow, existing in two worlds that are vastly contrasted. Five years ago, I swore the darkness would never permeate the daylight and in doing so, I have chosen to forgo happiness, to deny myself love. I have never wanted someone I couldn't have so badly. He is everything I have ever craved, all that I have denied myself in the name of duty. His dominance a soothing balm to my weary heart, coaxing a submission I cannot allow. The Fox is not made for softness.
Rhodes Alexander The need to protect is carved into the very foundation of my being. I thrive within the confines of hairpin triggers, my craft honed from my years spent as a Special Operations sniper. I don't hesitate, I don't second guess. Amelia Conte is a siren song, calling to the jagged remnants of my soul. Her loneliness is but a beacon leading me home - to her. Her yielding would be a death sentence, far too much for me to ask of a heart that has nothing left to give.
The demons lurking in her darkness do not scare me. I'll fortify her defenses and then take them out, one by one.
The Fox is a dark mafia romance that contains heavy themes and material suitable only for adults. Full TW/CW are available on author's socials and website.
There’s something so beautiful about a book that transcends its genre. This is not just a romance story or a mafia book. This is a story that depicts how raw and real the journey of healing truly is. It’s a stunning tale of what it means to be both strong and weak; broken and whole; demanding and submissive; brave and terrified. This is the tale of a woman finding not only love, but herself.
Amelia’s story is one of the more heartbreaking I have read this year. She’s been through so much with so little gained. She fights every day for the bare minimum, especially when it comes to the respect any man would easily have. She’s so brave and fierce, but also so horribly shattered. Being in her head allows you to fully understand her mental health struggles and the way her past is so deeply woven into her present—how it haunts her. I love her with my whole heart, and I truly think her story is one that will change lives.
Rhodes is a perfect MMC, and I love that he doesn’t shine more than Ames. It truly is her story, and he’s more than willing to let it be. Don’t get me wrong, he’s definitely his own person and a well fleshed out character. His depiction of PTSD is so raw. He’s an incredibly devoted and driven man, and I like how he is willing to bow down to Amelia while also taking control in the ways she needs.
Overall this story is fucking incredible. I love how well Nox sets up further books, and I think this series is going to be one of my all time favorites for life.
Hi yes hello. Do you like stabby FMCs? Do you like protective MMCs but not so protective that the FMC can’t be her own person?
Well let me introduce you to Amelia and Rhodes. These two complemented each other in all the best ways, a calm to each other’s storms. There’s baking, there’s a consent king and there’s of course tears because Nova loves to cause emotional damage-but I accept it gladly. Looking forward to what she brings next 🫶🏼
Nova Nox wrote an amazing female lead that not only displays how fierce the FMC is but also shows the inner emotional journey of healing. On a personal note, I’ve always liked reading mafia romances because in some ways I’ve always felt “seen,” coming from a not-so-pretty background of the same environment. The FMC fights to keep her place among the table of men while having a supportive MMC. Thank you Nova Nox so much for giving us this story.
2.5 This book had a lot of promise, but fell a little flat for me as far as plot. The relationship, trauma healing, and spice were chef's kiss.
I really loved the concept of this story, with a woman outfit leader and a sniper love interest. However, the mafia side of this story was a little lacking for me. Nothing REALLY happened. I loved the relationship between the two main characters, which is why it's a two and a half star read for me, but man, I wish there was a little more plot in the mafia world. Just a little more twist and turns. Like we get one scene where Ames gets hurt, but that was about it. We didn't get to see anything with the gun cartels, and dealings, we didn't really get to see her flex on that with the other families. I just wanted a little more. Spice was great, and the relationship between Ro and Ames was wonderful. I could have used a little more stalking in the beginning since it was hinted at. Also, we never got an answer to why Duncan was being an ass and distant to Parker. I was honestly waiting for a betrayal. I'm curious if this series will continue so we can get a few more answers, but we'll see.
I was lucky enough to receive this ARC from the lovely Nova Nox. This was my first dark mafia romance and it did not disappoint!
Amelia Conte has a hard exterior as a mafia boss, but inside she is anything but.
The true story lies not within the mafia politics, but with the romance between Amelia and Rhodes. Rhodes is the absolute perfect man for a broken woman. He is gentle and kind. Understanding and loyal. Not to mention, HOT!
There are so many quote worthy words in this story. It is raw and full of deep emotions.
The ending weaves a nice conclusion and room for more!
Tropes: Ride or Die Sisterhood Black Cat X German shepherd Stabby FMC Mafia dark romance Impact play/BDSM Morally grey characters Touch him and
Main Characters: Amelia & Rhodes
Stand out lines/quotes: You’re a goddess I do not deserve. Never have, never will.
My Thoughts: Nova. Girl. You did the damn thing I love this! You left me with some questions, so I’m going to need the next book so I can get them answered please. Amelia was a fantastic FMC, she was this strong, bad ass, boss babe but she’s also fragile, delicate and totally lovable. Rhodes was finger lickin deliciousness. Not only is he hot, he’s a good man with all the right moves.
There are a lot of mafia romances out there, but I haven’t read anything like The Fox. For a woman to be the Head of the families is not typical for these books. But Amelia Conte not only does the damn thing, but she does it WELL. The amount of turmoil she goes through to get to where she is will rip your heart out, but you’ll be more than happy to let Rhodes kiss it better.
Rhodes is this deliciously straightforward enigma of a man that has zero issues going after what he wants. He can be stoic and reserved, but also emotional and soft. I’ve never wanted to be a “good girl” so bad.
Dark mafia romances aren’t my usual vibe, but I enjoyed every bit of The Fox and can’t wait to see this world expand! Nova Nox’s debut is one that everyone needs to get their hands on!
The Fox by Nova Nox is a thrilling dive into the world of Mafia, power, and transformation. Amelia Conte has spent her life in the shadows of the Mafia, following in her father’s footsteps after his passing to become the head of the family. In a world where women are treated as little more than pawns, Amelia refuses to be silenced. Instead, she becomes "The Fox," a ruthless Mafia boss with a deadly affinity for knives and a heart hardened by years of trauma.
Amelia’s journey is not for the faint of heart—she’s endured unimaginable pain and built walls of steel around herself. But when Rhodes walks into her life, he begins the slow process of breaking down those walls, helping her confront her demons and embrace the possibility of love and happiness. The dynamic between them is electric, and their relationship is beautifully written, full of deep emotional growth and healing. Rhodes' unwavering support for Amelia, even in her darkest moments, makes their bond truly special.
Despite her powerful role in the Mafia, Amelia is more than just The Fox. Behind closed doors, she’s a woman trying to find herself and deal with her own vulnerabilities. Watching her evolve from a hard-edged boss to someone capable of love and trust was incredibly rewarding. The tragedy and the fight for survival Amelia faces only deepen the story, with Rhodes always by her side, making their relationship even more captivating.
The book sets up intriguing possibilities for a sequel, especially with the shady character of Duncan, Amelia’s Underboss. I do wish we had seen more of Amelia in her "Fox" persona, but her journey toward vulnerability was compelling in its own right. Overall, The Fox is an exciting Mafia romance, packed with suspense, heartache, and healing. I can’t wait to see where the story goes next! Highly recommend this book to fans of Mafia romances and complex, resilient female protagonists.
DARK MAFIA ROMANCE WHERE SHE'S THE LEADER OF THE MAFIA? YES 100% YES
5/5 ⭐
Amelia Conte, also known as The Fox, is head of the Conte family, leader of her city and never showing an ounce of emotion, because in her line of work emotions got you k!lled. Enter Rhodes Alexander the guy at Parker's coffee shop (Amelia's BFF) that hasn't stopped showing up every morning at the exact same time she does. And he's also trying to get her number and failing miserably. Until one day, things turn the opposite way and well... you'll need to read the story to know the rest.
TRUST ME YOU WANT TO READ THIS STORY, I WAS HOOKED FROM THE FIRST LINE AND OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG I WANT A RHODES IN MY LIFE, HE IS MY PERFECT MAN (sobs in chronically single 😩) and AMELIA!! My heart broke so many times while reading her story but it also showed me a beautiful tale of healing and getting back up stronger than before, and most importantly, not alone.
GO AHEAD AND READ THIS BOOK, I'LL GARANTEE YOU WON'T REGRET IT!!!!!!!!!!!
What a beautiful take on a Mafia romance!! This was a wonderful surprise. Honestly, I thought I would read a typical Mafia story, with this stunning FMC with no feelings and full of violence. However, what Nova Nox wrote was a deep character struggling to push through her trauma in a world where she was expected to fail.
I loved that the business aspect was a huge part of the plot but the sole focus. Instead, the author introduced us to Rhodes, a complex MMC that ended up winning all of our hearts. He is what every woman should expect in their partners: someone who has her back and loves her unconditionally.
Don't get me wrong—the action and "Mafia" part of the story are amazing, too. It is very real in that we see the dangers the FMC faces at any minute of her life. Also, I need some answers that I know Nova left unmentioned as a hook for book 2.
This was a fantastic book, and I can't wait to read anything else that this author will publish. Thank you so much for the ARC!!
✨ugh, this was so good. I LIVE FOR a stabby boss babe fmc and Amelia Conte was just that. Head of the mafia, and such a bad ass. And then Rhodes, oh gods, he was DREAMY. this was such a good book, AND A DEBUT MIGHT I ADD…absolutely amazing. The story, the spice…I was on the edge of my seat, I laughed, I cried, I was sweating. Rhodes has a mouth on him and it just made me melt. This book was just so so good.
ARC Review l Releases 12/15 Mafia romance with a twist!
Amelia, aka The Fox, takes control of her father's Outfit after his death. Getting to read about a woman in charge of the mafia was perfect. The book does a great job of showing the power Amelia has while also showing her very real struggles in this male dominated world.
Rhodes comes into her life in a classic he falls first and promises to do everything he can to have her back while still supporting her. I LOVE MMC who figures out how to balance being supportive, dominating, and protective all at the same time.
Rachel does such a beautiful job of weaving the darkness of mafia with the softness and beauty of a romance story. If you love a book with a powerful woman, swoony moments, sizzling spice, a strong female friendship, and cozy vibes, then this story is for you. I adore this feisty FMC who can use her hands to knead sourdough or to flip a 🔪 on an enemy. Absolutely glorious idea. 🙌🏻 I also LOVE the focus on body image in a dark book. It wasn’t just reading a mafia story- it was connecting with a woman who has had the odds stacked against her since she was born.
This book is deliciously satisfying, I could've read another 500 pages of Amelia and Rhodes. Female rage, woman led mafia, he falls first (and hard), multilingual characters, spice, sex, love, fresh bread, lavender lattes. This book will give you all the feels, mental health reps, female empowerment, and a very nice love for knives. I don't want to give up too much but YOU NEED IT
Beautiful story of romance, spice, power, and rising above a scaring past! Nova's debut novel paints a different story of what we believe the Mafia is.
This book is so beautiful and raw, one of my favorites of the year. The author does such an amazing job of breaking and healing both the main character and the reader, a testament to her skill as a debut author. Every feeling and thought is laid bare so eloquently, a stepping stone to Amelia and Rhodes’ journeys throughout the book.
My favorite aspect of this novel though isn’t just the writing or the feeling it evokes, it’s not even the romance aspect (AND IT IS DELISH!), but I love the scenes where Amelia’s complete and utter badassery is on display. Where she slithers into the role of the fox and dons the mask she needs as queen of the underworld. She’s concise, lethal, and lets no one harm what she loves. It’s a reminder that we’re all capable of taking no shit, even in heels and red lipstick.
My second favorite part of the book was the friendship between Amelia and Parker. Parker is strong and loyal, and they would clearly take a bullet for each other—or dole one out to protect them.
Though, like Amelia says, guns are archaic. She would definitely use her favorite knife.
I’ve only read one other mafia dark romance, and The Fox is the perfect introduction to the genre for any who are also starting out. I can safely say I’m in love with this book! Stabby FMC? Check. Morally grey characters? Check. Found family vibes? Absolutely.
Amelia was everything! I’d bow down to our Family Conte mafia queen without hesitation. I need more badass, curvy FMCs who can wield knives like they’re born for it. And Rhodes? Instant swoon. He’s a supportive, sweet, dominant MMC who is also a consent king. I mean, where do I sign up? Individually, these two are a force, but they were even stronger together and their chemistry was off the charts. I loved the way Nova built their relationship and getting to see them be vulnerable with each other.
Parker’s and Amelia’s friendship was one of my favorite parts of the book. Their friendship was everything—so beautiful and real. The emotional moments between them really hit me in the feels, and I definitely teared up more than once at how deep their loyalty and love ran. I also loved how The Fox delved into healing and empowerment. The way Rhodes helped Ames embrace her body and build confidence was so heartwarming. Plus, the way he was helping her heal from such a traumatic past was absolutely perfect. Honestly, I couldn’t have picked a better time to read this book. I really needed the healing and empowerment messages in my life!
Big thanks to Nova Nox for letting me join the ARC team! I’m beyond excited for your debut, and now I can’t wait for Parker’s story.