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New York Mafia aka Lost DeLuca Sisters #3
Little Dove
Lazaro
She’s the long-lost daughter of a Mafia Don, and now she’s their target. My job is find her, protect her, and bring her back to the family she never knew. But Amara isn’t what I expected. She’s fierce, stubborn, and determined not to let anyone—or the demons she’s been fighting—control her life. She doesn’t trust me yet, but she will. I’ll shield her from the dangers closing in and give her the family she’s always deserved. Because Amara Stanley is mine, and I protect what’s mine—even if she tries to push me away.
Amara
It all happened so fast—a stranger crashing into my life and tearing down everything I thought I knew. Lazaro Cattaneo says he’s here to protect me, to bring me back to meet members of a family I never knew existed. Except, his world is nothing but danger, lies, and power plays. He’s intense, possessive, and impossible to ignore. Every time I try to push him away, he shows me a side of him I don’t expect—one that makes my heart race and my defences falter. I’ve spent my life fighting to survive, but can I trust the man who claims I’m his? Or am I doomed to be hurt all over again?
**Each book in the series will have a new couple, but there is a continuing story arc through each book. It is recommended to start from the first book of the series, Little Mouse for best enjoyment.
She’s the long-lost daughter of a Mafia Don, and now she’s their target. My job is find her, protect her, and bring her back to the family she never knew. But Amara isn’t what I expected. She’s fierce, stubborn, and determined not to let anyone—or the demons she’s been fighting—control her life. She doesn’t trust me yet, but she will. I’ll shield her from the dangers closing in and give her the family she’s always deserved. Because Amara Stanley is mine, and I protect what’s mine—even if she tries to push me away.
Amara
It all happened so fast—a stranger crashing into my life and tearing down everything I thought I knew. Lazaro Cattaneo says he’s here to protect me, to bring me back to meet members of a family I never knew existed. Except, his world is nothing but danger, lies, and power plays. He’s intense, possessive, and impossible to ignore. Every time I try to push him away, he shows me a side of him I don’t expect—one that makes my heart race and my defences falter. I’ve spent my life fighting to survive, but can I trust the man who claims I’m his? Or am I doomed to be hurt all over again?
**Each book in the series will have a new couple, but there is a continuing story arc through each book. It is recommended to start from the first book of the series, Little Mouse for best enjoyment.
470 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 21, 2025
334 people are currently reading
517 people want to read
About the author
Emily Rose
29 books561 followersI live in New Brunswick, Canada with my husband and our two dogs,
Remi and Sako (pronounced Say-co). When I’m not writing, I’m
playing fetch with the dogs, talking to my parents for endless amounts
of hours, annoying the crap out of my husband, or just enjoying life
with my friends.
Writing has been a part of my life since I was about 12. I started
out just writing short stories or silly knock-offs of my favorite shows
or movies. Soon, though, I realized just how much I loved to write.
How often my mind would wander and think of characters and where
they could go. They became real to me, and I would start to write. I
used to fill up notebooks and pads of paper when I got an idea. It
would be an obsession, almost, to get on paper. Then, when I was old
enough to have a computer, I started there.
Now, I’m 28 years old and I finally hit that button. The one that
I’ve thought about it over and over again for the past 16 years. There is
no greater joy, or fear, at realizing you’ve just accomplished something
that you’ve wanted to do for so very long. That is my greatest accomplishment
and I look forward to hitting that button on many more.
Remi and Sako (pronounced Say-co). When I’m not writing, I’m
playing fetch with the dogs, talking to my parents for endless amounts
of hours, annoying the crap out of my husband, or just enjoying life
with my friends.
Writing has been a part of my life since I was about 12. I started
out just writing short stories or silly knock-offs of my favorite shows
or movies. Soon, though, I realized just how much I loved to write.
How often my mind would wander and think of characters and where
they could go. They became real to me, and I would start to write. I
used to fill up notebooks and pads of paper when I got an idea. It
would be an obsession, almost, to get on paper. Then, when I was old
enough to have a computer, I started there.
Now, I’m 28 years old and I finally hit that button. The one that
I’ve thought about it over and over again for the past 16 years. There is
no greater joy, or fear, at realizing you’ve just accomplished something
that you’ve wanted to do for so very long. That is my greatest accomplishment
and I look forward to hitting that button on many more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
March 28, 2025
This book drove me nuts. I enjoyed the first one a ton, the second one I wasn’t a huge fan of, and this was just ridiculous. The plot is being lost the more that she writes. And why is almost the entire thing just dialog? Pages and pages and pages of dialog and not a lot else. They go into a room and then the entire chapter is them talking and being all over each other, whether it’s the main characters or the mains from other books. I don’t get the insta love in this one at all either considering her history of SA and abuse from her foster families. If I had went through that, I would not immediately fall for a mafia asshole who claims I’m his after knowing me 2 seconds. And why does everyone in this damn house have like Stockholm syndrome? They act like everything these dudes are doing is completely normal and totally fine. I just don’t get it. I forced my way through it but I wasn’t happy about it
February 22, 2025
Weak addition..
This was the worst one yet. Enjoyed previous two book with storyline that had interesting female lead. This one had the leading female as a hair stylist, weak, boring, and mouthy. Nothing interesting about the female and the chemistry was weak in my opinion. The OW drama was a joke when the h didn't put her in her place. The storyline is predictable and boring. Don't care to continue to read with the repetitive push n pull as the main angst. Disappointed that the author made the heroine as a boring uninteresting character. Hair stylist with having a SA background does not equal a strong h. Lost interest and DNF a t 35%.
This was the worst one yet. Enjoyed previous two book with storyline that had interesting female lead. This one had the leading female as a hair stylist, weak, boring, and mouthy. Nothing interesting about the female and the chemistry was weak in my opinion. The OW drama was a joke when the h didn't put her in her place. The storyline is predictable and boring. Don't care to continue to read with the repetitive push n pull as the main angst. Disappointed that the author made the heroine as a boring uninteresting character. Hair stylist with having a SA background does not equal a strong h. Lost interest and DNF a t 35%.
October 5, 2025
The series kind of lost its way—the story started to feel repetitive and dragged on too much.
May 28, 2025
Unfortunately, the plot dragged through most of this novel. There wasn't even much of a pressing conflict. As the series has progressed, I've noticed it has had a annoying tendency to mellow out the heroines from their once staunch personalities to helpless, indistinguishable cut-outs, and this book was no exception. I barely recognize the Gia from the cunning, albeit battered protagonist from the first book. She frequently breaks down and seems like a puppet to a constantly growling Nico. Alessio's "boo bear" flirtatious shtick has gotten old, and I long tired of the Caruso and Cattaneos' hostility towards Dante. It just makes them all look so immature, and I want to be allured by the MLIs.
As always, the MLI relentlessly pursued the heroine who bears a striking resemblance to her starring female relatives from the prior books. I understand that they all come from a lineage of strong genes, but it makes the story dull when they basically all have the same bland, brown-haired features with a few deviations, especially when we are supposed to believe that the men fell in love with them at first sight. So, you're telling me that a small tweak in the angle of Amara's jaw was enough to make Lazaro swoon over her, but not Gia? I think that they could be distinguished a lot more descriptively for the sake of setting a story that sounds fresh --- there is nothing wrong with the combination of physical traits they were given, I must clarify, but rather how carelessly everything felt to be thrown together.
There were a lot of words on the pages, but nothing felt to be fully fleshed out like we saw in the first book. The second book kind of clung onto that mystique at that start, but there was a clear decline in quality that infiltrated this sequel. I wanted to like this novel because the first book was one of the few mafia romances to really grip me, with strong exposition, a dynamic story and intriguing characters. We were exposed to a world that was lush and hinted at infinite possibilities --- the narrative promised potential, but didn't dangle a lack of constraint that verged on cartoonish surrealism. The plot twist where we found out there are countless female babies smuggled out besides the ones we already know, that crushed the immersion, and the conflicts since then have felt unbelievable. There are no real losses unlike the first shootout we saw between Nico and Gia's family, and because the protagonists have become overpowered they basically fly through any challenge that comes their way. You know what to expect by the end of each book, which is acceptable, but it'd be nice if the journey to reach that happy resolution was more dynamic.
As always, the MLI relentlessly pursued the heroine who bears a striking resemblance to her starring female relatives from the prior books. I understand that they all come from a lineage of strong genes, but it makes the story dull when they basically all have the same bland, brown-haired features with a few deviations, especially when we are supposed to believe that the men fell in love with them at first sight. So, you're telling me that a small tweak in the angle of Amara's jaw was enough to make Lazaro swoon over her, but not Gia? I think that they could be distinguished a lot more descriptively for the sake of setting a story that sounds fresh --- there is nothing wrong with the combination of physical traits they were given, I must clarify, but rather how carelessly everything felt to be thrown together.
There were a lot of words on the pages, but nothing felt to be fully fleshed out like we saw in the first book. The second book kind of clung onto that mystique at that start, but there was a clear decline in quality that infiltrated this sequel. I wanted to like this novel because the first book was one of the few mafia romances to really grip me, with strong exposition, a dynamic story and intriguing characters. We were exposed to a world that was lush and hinted at infinite possibilities --- the narrative promised potential, but didn't dangle a lack of constraint that verged on cartoonish surrealism. The plot twist where we found out there are countless female babies smuggled out besides the ones we already know, that crushed the immersion, and the conflicts since then have felt unbelievable. There are no real losses unlike the first shootout we saw between Nico and Gia's family, and because the protagonists have become overpowered they basically fly through any challenge that comes their way. You know what to expect by the end of each book, which is acceptable, but it'd be nice if the journey to reach that happy resolution was more dynamic.
May 23, 2025
Amara Stanley lives in a town that does not want her, life for her is between a rock and a hard place though. If she could leave she would but money makes the world go round and hers is at a stand still. Having a huge hunk of a man show up to get his hair cut is out of the norm and when Lazaro goes to protect her from a threat she didn't even know she had she is not sure what to make of it. Evidently she is a the long lost daughter of a Mafia Don and has siblings out there, can she trust Lazaro is telling her the truth?
A bit different then the previous books. I thought this was action packed and liked the fact that Amara is unlike then the other girls and the banter between her and Lazaro is entertaining. Fast paced and another great read in the series, I am very curious about the next book. Can't wait.
A bit different then the previous books. I thought this was action packed and liked the fact that Amara is unlike then the other girls and the banter between her and Lazaro is entertaining. Fast paced and another great read in the series, I am very curious about the next book. Can't wait.
February 20, 2025
Book 3 in The De Luca Sisters series and I highly recommend you start at book 1, Little Mouse.
Here we have Amara who is living in a small town where she's treated like dirt! We know there's a story there and we know it's not right the way she's being treated. But what we don't know, is why there is suddenly this massive dude protecting her in a shoot out while basically kidnapping her!
She's been through a lot, which includes abuse so it's a must that you check the TWs.
I liked the way it was written, she's quite open (obviously not straight away!) but when she finally tells Lazaro what happened to her, she's open when it comes to s3x and s3xual acts, how she feels, what she does and doesn't like etc. He's patient with her and the way he listens to her, the way he understands what she's saying and how he contains his anger for her, around her, is well written also!
The two families are still working together trying to find the rest of the girls and I loved when they come together, watching the small group grow and them all become closer is sweet as.
I enjoyed it. 3.5/4
Here we have Amara who is living in a small town where she's treated like dirt! We know there's a story there and we know it's not right the way she's being treated. But what we don't know, is why there is suddenly this massive dude protecting her in a shoot out while basically kidnapping her!
She's been through a lot, which includes abuse so it's a must that you check the TWs.
I liked the way it was written, she's quite open (obviously not straight away!) but when she finally tells Lazaro what happened to her, she's open when it comes to s3x and s3xual acts, how she feels, what she does and doesn't like etc. He's patient with her and the way he listens to her, the way he understands what she's saying and how he contains his anger for her, around her, is well written also!
The two families are still working together trying to find the rest of the girls and I loved when they come together, watching the small group grow and them all become closer is sweet as.
I enjoyed it. 3.5/4
February 10, 2025
This was such an amazing addition to the series. Amara is this amazing pillar of strength and resilience dispite her past and her current life. She has been through some awful things but still has no problem bringing Larenzo to his knees (literally) when he’s way out of line. She is by far my favorite FMC in this series. Then you have Larenzo who is this uber possessive alpha male yet is so gentle with Amara that you can’t help but fall in love with him. I’m so obsessed with this story!!!
March 4, 2025
I enjoyed this very much. I loved how deep Lazaro felt for Amara right away and he learned how to gain her trust and affection. I liked how Amara developed her relationship with him and how her relationship with everyone else evolved as well. I enjoyed all past characters from other books and am excited to see where the story goes
August 3, 2025
1.5* Convoluted crazy and ridiculous plots, loads and loads of mistakes, and the mfc gets over ptsd and severe trauma overnight! 😡
Sorry but that was terrible! The plot was all over, Nico is horrible to everyone but Gia, there’s way too many inconsistencies that it spoilt it, and there’s barely any romance as the men are constantly talking about all their enemies and who they are aligned with. It gets absolutely ridiculous as the two De Luca brothers and their sons make alliances with everyone and it’s just stupid! There’s even more secret passageways in this one and it’s silly! No one knew about all these passageways! The author calls people by their first name sometimes ot their surnames at others and that’s really confusing. The men were mentioning about Gallo all the time and I didn’t have a clue who he was till later on it clicked he was SEAMUS GALLO. Then there’s the mistakes and there’s loads of them, ranging from people calling the wrong man father, to weird jumps in the timeline that aren’t explained. Amara had an horrific childhood that has left her with series ptsd and trauma yet she gets over it overnight and all her fears as well, without any counselling! 😡😡😡 I’m really sorry but I found this book too depressing as well. There’s no joy or laughter in this one. In Sienna’s book Alessio was really funny and so was Sienna in this one Amara is angry, frightened, upset, most of the time and there’s no joking around. Obviously she’s a very different character to Sienna but even Gia made me laugh with Nico.
Lazaro for some bizarre reason is sent on his own to pick Amara up from the little town she lives in. Her secret family are soon hot on their tail so they hide in a secret underground facility until help arrives. (Another secret passage???🙄🙄🙄) Lazaro is instantly smitten with his ‘little dove,’ (Their nicknames are weird especially during sex.) and of course he gets way too dominating with her and nearly frightens her off. Amara at first is really angry and doesn’t trust anyone as she thinks they will betray her or hurt her. Amara really didn’t make sense to me. She still lives in a town that hates her and abuses her daily. WHY? Her two cousins Gia and Sienna and Rori really help her to settle in and that part is sweet. There’s a HUGE amount of talking and plotting in this one and hardly any romance at all. Lazaro and Amara barely see each other, they barely talk and Amara hardly knows anything about Lazaro.
I don’t know what happened with this book. Did the author get fed up of writing this series? After Alessio and Sienna’s book which I really enjoyed, this is a huge letdown.
Sorry but that was terrible! The plot was all over, Nico is horrible to everyone but Gia, there’s way too many inconsistencies that it spoilt it, and there’s barely any romance as the men are constantly talking about all their enemies and who they are aligned with. It gets absolutely ridiculous as the two De Luca brothers and their sons make alliances with everyone and it’s just stupid! There’s even more secret passageways in this one and it’s silly! No one knew about all these passageways! The author calls people by their first name sometimes ot their surnames at others and that’s really confusing. The men were mentioning about Gallo all the time and I didn’t have a clue who he was till later on it clicked he was SEAMUS GALLO. Then there’s the mistakes and there’s loads of them, ranging from people calling the wrong man father, to weird jumps in the timeline that aren’t explained. Amara had an horrific childhood that has left her with series ptsd and trauma yet she gets over it overnight and all her fears as well, without any counselling! 😡😡😡 I’m really sorry but I found this book too depressing as well. There’s no joy or laughter in this one. In Sienna’s book Alessio was really funny and so was Sienna in this one Amara is angry, frightened, upset, most of the time and there’s no joking around. Obviously she’s a very different character to Sienna but even Gia made me laugh with Nico.
Lazaro for some bizarre reason is sent on his own to pick Amara up from the little town she lives in. Her secret family are soon hot on their tail so they hide in a secret underground facility until help arrives. (Another secret passage???🙄🙄🙄) Lazaro is instantly smitten with his ‘little dove,’ (Their nicknames are weird especially during sex.) and of course he gets way too dominating with her and nearly frightens her off. Amara at first is really angry and doesn’t trust anyone as she thinks they will betray her or hurt her. Amara really didn’t make sense to me. She still lives in a town that hates her and abuses her daily. WHY? Her two cousins Gia and Sienna and Rori really help her to settle in and that part is sweet. There’s a HUGE amount of talking and plotting in this one and hardly any romance at all. Lazaro and Amara barely see each other, they barely talk and Amara hardly knows anything about Lazaro.
I don’t know what happened with this book. Did the author get fed up of writing this series? After Alessio and Sienna’s book which I really enjoyed, this is a huge letdown.
February 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Mafia Romance Perfection! A Dark, Dangerous, and Heartfelt Ride ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Who doesn’t love a big, bad, hunky mafia man? And Lazaro? Whew—he’s everything you could want in a dark and dangerous mafia hero. Big (and I mean big), tall, brooding, and let’s not forget that dirty mouth—hot, hot, hot! 🔥
If you’ve read the first two books in The Lost DeLuca Sisters series by Emily Rose, you already know there’s a deep, emotional background at play. While Little Dove (Book 3) can be read as a standalone, trust me—you’ll want to devour the first two books to get the full, rich experience. They set the stage perfectly for what might be the most heartbreaking and moving story yet.
This time, it’s Amara’s turn—the next lost DeLuca sister to be found. And who’s the man to find her? None other than Lazaro, who storms in with all his “touch her and die” energy (loved this vibe!). From the moment he lays eyes on her, he knows—Amara is his Little Dove. But Lazaro also realizes that winning her trust means treading carefully. After everything Amara has endured since childhood (get those tissues ready, you’ll need them!), her walls are high, and rightfully so.
Amara isn’t just a damsel in distress—she’s strong, wary, and more than capable of holding her own. But she’s broken in ways that will shatter your heart. Watching Lazaro, along with her found family, piece her back together is a beautiful journey of healing, trust, and unconditional love.
The chemistry between Lazaro and Amara? Off the charts! Their connection is undeniable, and you’ll be rooting for them every step of the way. But don’t think this story is all romance—Emily Rose ramps up the danger in this third instalment. As the hunt for the remaining DeLuca sister intensifies, shocking secrets come to light, including a gut-wrenching twist that will leave you reeling.
This series keeps getting better with every book. Little Dove isn’t just a mafia romance—it’s a story of healing, trust, and finding safety in the most unexpected arms. The perfect blend of dark romance, sizzling chemistry, and emotional depth. If you’re not reading this series yet, what are you waiting for?!
Who doesn’t love a big, bad, hunky mafia man? And Lazaro? Whew—he’s everything you could want in a dark and dangerous mafia hero. Big (and I mean big), tall, brooding, and let’s not forget that dirty mouth—hot, hot, hot! 🔥
If you’ve read the first two books in The Lost DeLuca Sisters series by Emily Rose, you already know there’s a deep, emotional background at play. While Little Dove (Book 3) can be read as a standalone, trust me—you’ll want to devour the first two books to get the full, rich experience. They set the stage perfectly for what might be the most heartbreaking and moving story yet.
This time, it’s Amara’s turn—the next lost DeLuca sister to be found. And who’s the man to find her? None other than Lazaro, who storms in with all his “touch her and die” energy (loved this vibe!). From the moment he lays eyes on her, he knows—Amara is his Little Dove. But Lazaro also realizes that winning her trust means treading carefully. After everything Amara has endured since childhood (get those tissues ready, you’ll need them!), her walls are high, and rightfully so.
Amara isn’t just a damsel in distress—she’s strong, wary, and more than capable of holding her own. But she’s broken in ways that will shatter your heart. Watching Lazaro, along with her found family, piece her back together is a beautiful journey of healing, trust, and unconditional love.
The chemistry between Lazaro and Amara? Off the charts! Their connection is undeniable, and you’ll be rooting for them every step of the way. But don’t think this story is all romance—Emily Rose ramps up the danger in this third instalment. As the hunt for the remaining DeLuca sister intensifies, shocking secrets come to light, including a gut-wrenching twist that will leave you reeling.
This series keeps getting better with every book. Little Dove isn’t just a mafia romance—it’s a story of healing, trust, and finding safety in the most unexpected arms. The perfect blend of dark romance, sizzling chemistry, and emotional depth. If you’re not reading this series yet, what are you waiting for?!
February 21, 2025
Amazing read
Its time for Amara and Lazaro story
This is the 3rd book in the lost DeLuca sisters series and is following the of Gia and Sienna resuce and them falling in love but war is still gearing up following the battles and the search for other Deluca girls.
Amara is a hairdresser in a small town where things have not been easy for her from childhood abuse the foster system and the townspeople treatment she has a lack of trust in anyone especially for a man who shows up from out of nowhere and bullets start flying and your life turned upside down and she is now mafia daughter and has male members of this family after her, a man who is intense stubborn and possessive and knocking walls around her heart not to mention getting to know the female members her family and the other females which is something she struggles with. Also dealing with being in the middle of war with new serects coming to light can she navigate this new world and come out the other side with her heart whole.
Lazaro is the enforcer to the underboss from Italy and sent to get to amara before her family does and from the moment they meet he is gone and his possessive alpha male side comes through and need to protect this woman takes over and he will make her I but needs to get her to safety and then work on his claim. But with war getting heated he is pulled in many directions.
This book has drama action alpha maleness humour and teaser of the next book it is well written and dual point of view can be read stand lone but would be better read I order with previous books little mouse first then little rabbit to full experience of the book
Its time for Amara and Lazaro story
This is the 3rd book in the lost DeLuca sisters series and is following the of Gia and Sienna resuce and them falling in love but war is still gearing up following the battles and the search for other Deluca girls.
Amara is a hairdresser in a small town where things have not been easy for her from childhood abuse the foster system and the townspeople treatment she has a lack of trust in anyone especially for a man who shows up from out of nowhere and bullets start flying and your life turned upside down and she is now mafia daughter and has male members of this family after her, a man who is intense stubborn and possessive and knocking walls around her heart not to mention getting to know the female members her family and the other females which is something she struggles with. Also dealing with being in the middle of war with new serects coming to light can she navigate this new world and come out the other side with her heart whole.
Lazaro is the enforcer to the underboss from Italy and sent to get to amara before her family does and from the moment they meet he is gone and his possessive alpha male side comes through and need to protect this woman takes over and he will make her I but needs to get her to safety and then work on his claim. But with war getting heated he is pulled in many directions.
This book has drama action alpha maleness humour and teaser of the next book it is well written and dual point of view can be read stand lone but would be better read I order with previous books little mouse first then little rabbit to full experience of the book
February 10, 2025
Absolutely frickin’ delicious!
Little Dove by Emily Rose ticked all the boxes and had me by the throat within the first few pages.
Who doesn’t love a dark, possessive & obsessive mafia hitman melting up their kindle? You’ll find no complaints here!
Amara… what a soldier! The girl sure had been through some shit, though instead of making her a weak little mess, it just strengthened her spine— I loved her!
Lazaro and Amara together?… well, what yummy reading.
I received this book as an ARC, and honestly I’ve found ARC reading can be a little hit and miss— essentially you’re putting time and effort into a book that you choose to take on after reading a teeny snippet, praying that it satisfies your tastes with usually no feedback or anything to go by & sometimes there can be regrets: (So many books in so little time and all that)…
NO REGRETS!!
I’m not usually in the business of spreading 5⭐️ ratings like confetti— I’m one of these snippy Judge Judy types that can’t write a novel for sh*t though act as if I’m judge an executioner of the book world, acting like my review stars come out of my paycheck…
Credit where credit is due though, and this book was just… so much YES, & small disclaimer— I actually ‘fell ill’ and HAD to cancel on dinner plans when this book took me hostage… WORTH IT!
I received an ARC for this title in the hopes of my voluntarily leaving an honest review— which I’ve obviously decided to supply.
Little Dove by Emily Rose ticked all the boxes and had me by the throat within the first few pages.
Who doesn’t love a dark, possessive & obsessive mafia hitman melting up their kindle? You’ll find no complaints here!
Amara… what a soldier! The girl sure had been through some shit, though instead of making her a weak little mess, it just strengthened her spine— I loved her!
Lazaro and Amara together?… well, what yummy reading.
I received this book as an ARC, and honestly I’ve found ARC reading can be a little hit and miss— essentially you’re putting time and effort into a book that you choose to take on after reading a teeny snippet, praying that it satisfies your tastes with usually no feedback or anything to go by & sometimes there can be regrets: (So many books in so little time and all that)…
NO REGRETS!!
I’m not usually in the business of spreading 5⭐️ ratings like confetti— I’m one of these snippy Judge Judy types that can’t write a novel for sh*t though act as if I’m judge an executioner of the book world, acting like my review stars come out of my paycheck…
Credit where credit is due though, and this book was just… so much YES, & small disclaimer— I actually ‘fell ill’ and HAD to cancel on dinner plans when this book took me hostage… WORTH IT!
I received an ARC for this title in the hopes of my voluntarily leaving an honest review— which I’ve obviously decided to supply.
February 26, 2025
Emily Rose delivers a compelling mix of romance, suspense, and mafia intrigue in Little Dove, the third installment of the De Luca Sisters series. Amara’s journey from struggling small-town hairstylist to a woman caught in the dangerous web of her family’s mafia past is gripping from start to finish. The novel thrives on its dark, tension-filled atmosphere, where gossip isn't just harmful—it’s a weapon.
Amara is a well-crafted protagonist, battling both external threats and internal conflicts as she learns shocking truths about her heritage. Her chemistry with Lazaro is undeniable—intense, brooding, and filled with just the right amount of possessiveness to make dark romance lovers swoon. Their dynamic walks a fine line between protection and control, creating a slow-burning yet charged relationship that keeps the pages turning.
The novel does a fantastic job balancing action and emotional depth, with plenty of high-stakes moments that push Amara to the edge. The spice is definitely present, adding a sensual layer to the tension-filled relationship between Amara and Lazaro.
Overall, Little Dove is a thrilling and steamy ride that fans of mafia romance will devour. It’s a perfect blend of danger, passion, and self-discovery, making it a solid four-star read. If you love protective antiheroes, high-stakes drama, and just the right amount of spice, this one is for you.
Amara is a well-crafted protagonist, battling both external threats and internal conflicts as she learns shocking truths about her heritage. Her chemistry with Lazaro is undeniable—intense, brooding, and filled with just the right amount of possessiveness to make dark romance lovers swoon. Their dynamic walks a fine line between protection and control, creating a slow-burning yet charged relationship that keeps the pages turning.
The novel does a fantastic job balancing action and emotional depth, with plenty of high-stakes moments that push Amara to the edge. The spice is definitely present, adding a sensual layer to the tension-filled relationship between Amara and Lazaro.
Overall, Little Dove is a thrilling and steamy ride that fans of mafia romance will devour. It’s a perfect blend of danger, passion, and self-discovery, making it a solid four-star read. If you love protective antiheroes, high-stakes drama, and just the right amount of spice, this one is for you.
March 12, 2025
”When I said you’re mine, Amara, I meant it to the day we die. Not until something else comes along, or because of something someone says or wills. I will say it over and over again until everyone understands that, including you. Forever, Amara. You and me, we are forever.”
I absolutely loved Lazaro and Amara. i do want to say though, i have read the others books in this series and i was a bit confused on characters in the beginning. there isn’t any type of “refresh” on who’s who which made it a bit hard to follow at first. If i was reading these back to back vs as they’re released, that likely wouldn’t be an issue.
Amara’s story is so incredibly sad. being with her bio family would’ve had it’s own demons but to hear what she went through in foster care so was disheartening. Lazaro finding her and being the one to take care of her and show her love for the first time was so amazing. He took such great care of her and did everything in his power to make her comfortable.
-mafia romance
-healing from trauma
-found family
-strong, independent FMC
-he falls first
TW: Amara has a rough childhood that included SA which is described
Couple gets their HEA but overall storyline has a small cliffhanger.
I absolutely loved Lazaro and Amara. i do want to say though, i have read the others books in this series and i was a bit confused on characters in the beginning. there isn’t any type of “refresh” on who’s who which made it a bit hard to follow at first. If i was reading these back to back vs as they’re released, that likely wouldn’t be an issue.
Amara’s story is so incredibly sad. being with her bio family would’ve had it’s own demons but to hear what she went through in foster care so was disheartening. Lazaro finding her and being the one to take care of her and show her love for the first time was so amazing. He took such great care of her and did everything in his power to make her comfortable.
-mafia romance
-healing from trauma
-found family
-strong, independent FMC
-he falls first
TW: Amara has a rough childhood that included SA which is described
Couple gets their HEA but overall storyline has a small cliffhanger.
October 5, 2025
The cliffhanger this left on oh my lord!!! I don’t know what I’m going to do until the next book comes out so far I’ve only seen the Kindle version but I want to complete my collection of the hardback book I’m so pumped up this book was amazing and emotional and not like the other books. At first I was really conflicted because the FMC just didn’t seem to know what she wanted like LM and LR this FMC just seemed more along for the ride then would disregard the MMC. But slowly we are more introduced to her world and let me just say the “smut” was more heartfelt and intimate than both of the books. I caught myself in aw of the MMC’s patience, consideration and love for the FMC that made their relationship all the more special and unique from both of the other books, and the bathtub scene. 🥹🥹🥹 it’s also so amazing getting to see how the other characters have developed and how their relationships make them stronger, freaking Alessio and Sieanna 😍😍 Nico with his grumpy behavior and Gia there to comfort him through all the hard times and we can’t forget Pietro. That man is so wise and has everyone’s best interest and definitely has the “touch them and die” vibe. There’s just not enough compliments for this book or series and I just can’t wait for the next one Boo Bears!! 🐻
February 25, 2025
Amara is living a miserable life in a small town where everyone acts like she is a homewrecker and worse. When Lazaro shows up and a gun fight breaks out they barley escape. Her life as she knew it was over. She learns so many truths in a small amount of time. Amara is a tough smart mouthed, spitfire who has no problem throwing a punch. She has been through so much in her life and has come out even stronger. She struggles with many aspects of PTSD but is very resilient.Lazaro knew Amara was his from the first moment he saw her but the more he learns the harder he falls. he is sweet and caring with her but the possessive jealous side comes out often. While he wants to take every part of her he is diligent in understanding how far he can push her and how much control he has to give her back. This series is fantastic, full of secrets, twists, betrayals and suspense and hot steam. When you start to think you have things figured out you are hit with another twist and that one in the end just blew my mind. All the characters have such amazing story lines and development there are so many layers to each one character that you learn new things in each book. While this story is Amara and Lazaros you have so much going on around them with all the other characters it gives you the full immersion of this world. I devoured it. Can't wait for what's to come. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review.
March 1, 2025
ARC Review - Loved Lazaro and Amara's book. This book was full of love and passion and showing how people can over come some of worst fears in life. Amara has been through hell and back her whole life. When Lazaro shows up and saves her from her family that she didn't even know existed she didn't know what to do her fight or flight instinct were at war. Lazaro works hard to get them out of a sticky situation and has to explain a story that sounds like the plot of a movie. Lots of truths come out in this book that can help or hinder. Lazaro works hard to win over Amara and when they come together thier chemistry is off the charts. You will laugh, cry and be on the edge of your seats with this read. Emily always has a way to bring her characters together and this book is worth the read. If you have read any of the series I would recommend starting with Little Mouse. Thank you for another great read Emily. Happy Reading all.
February 21, 2025
Amara, a sassy and sarcastic woman, finds herself trapped in a town where she's constantly ostracized. But when Lazaro, a brooding and possessive mafia enforcer, walks into her hairdressing shop, her life takes a thrilling turn.
Amara's past is riddled with trauma, and Lazaro's arrival throws her into a world of danger and passion. He's sent to protect her, but he falls head over heels for her instantly. Their connection is electric, but Amara's guarded heart and past trauma makes it a slow burn, which works really well with the story, and in regards to their budding relationship.
Lazaro's possessiveness borders on obsession, but his fierce love for Amara shines through. He's not your typical mafia man; he's surprisingly sensitive and tries to understand Amara's pain.
The writing is exquisite, the plot is intricate, and gets better the more you read and the romance is slow-burning and intense. Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with angst, secrets, and heart-stopping action. The blend of humor and suspense, left me on the edge of my seat with a cliffhanger that had me begging for more!
Amara's past is riddled with trauma, and Lazaro's arrival throws her into a world of danger and passion. He's sent to protect her, but he falls head over heels for her instantly. Their connection is electric, but Amara's guarded heart and past trauma makes it a slow burn, which works really well with the story, and in regards to their budding relationship.
Lazaro's possessiveness borders on obsession, but his fierce love for Amara shines through. He's not your typical mafia man; he's surprisingly sensitive and tries to understand Amara's pain.
The writing is exquisite, the plot is intricate, and gets better the more you read and the romance is slow-burning and intense. Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with angst, secrets, and heart-stopping action. The blend of humor and suspense, left me on the edge of my seat with a cliffhanger that had me begging for more!
February 20, 2025
Amara is one tough woman. Don't call her "cute" or order her to eat, even if you are just looking out for her wellbeing. She will punch you where it really hurts. Lazaro learns this the hard way. Yet, he was already addicted to Amara and suffering for her is worth it.
I love when a guy calls the woman that he cares for a nickname. It is so endearing. That is Lazaro calling Amara "dolcezza".
"Kissing him is dangerous"
Amara is a great addition to Lazaro and his family. Everyone loves her including Lazaro's father. He did admit that he would choose Amara over his son that she has that to hold on to. In this book, we discover more about the DeLuca sisters' past lives. What a shocker! As more secrets are reveals, other twists are thrown in. Emily sure loves to keep me on the edge of my seat! I need the next book now.
I love when a guy calls the woman that he cares for a nickname. It is so endearing. That is Lazaro calling Amara "dolcezza".
"Kissing him is dangerous"
Amara is a great addition to Lazaro and his family. Everyone loves her including Lazaro's father. He did admit that he would choose Amara over his son that she has that to hold on to. In this book, we discover more about the DeLuca sisters' past lives. What a shocker! As more secrets are reveals, other twists are thrown in. Emily sure loves to keep me on the edge of my seat! I need the next book now.
June 7, 2025
I hate insta love, but I tried to give this book a shot since everyone in TikTok seemed to love it. It sucked. It's just dialogue, the plot is almost irrelevant and the characters are just unlikeable. I liked the FMC, but that's it. The characters were lame. I don't think the author knew what she was writing, probably just went with the flow without an actual outline.
I tried to ignore the fact that as soon as they met the MMC wanted to marry her, like, It's not the first book that I've read that has that trope. But everything went way too fast. It just felt dumb.
And the plot is stupid, or maybe I couldn't follow it since the book isn't organized. One paragraph might be full of information and in the following one they don't talk about it anymore. And there aren't actual paragraphs, just bad dialogues between characters you don't care about.
Overall, it's a bad book.
I tried to ignore the fact that as soon as they met the MMC wanted to marry her, like, It's not the first book that I've read that has that trope. But everything went way too fast. It just felt dumb.
And the plot is stupid, or maybe I couldn't follow it since the book isn't organized. One paragraph might be full of information and in the following one they don't talk about it anymore. And there aren't actual paragraphs, just bad dialogues between characters you don't care about.
Overall, it's a bad book.
February 12, 2025
Oh my gosh, this series just keeps getting better! I think Lazaro is quickly becoming a favorite and Amara is pretty great too. Sexy, exciting and lots of intrigue make these stories amazing. Love watching the new characters and getting reacquainted with crew from the previous books. Alessio and his “Boo Bearing” Nico never gets old…that man is a little cracked…but hilarious! Rory and Alonzo dancing around each other. One minute flirting and the next she’s threatening to sic her dog on him…they need their own story! The plot just keeps getting thicker and the mystery amps up the farther we get into the stories ! I loved this addition to an amazing series and I’m looking forward to what, and who, comes next! Great job, Ms. Rose, you’ve got my attention.
February 12, 2025
O, Little Dove!
As innocent as the title sounds, there is nothing innocent about this book. This might be my favourite book of the series, yet. After everything that Amara has been through she is still so innocent and trying to protect herself even when she has a family behind her who would give their lives protecting her. But she will eventually understand that blood doesn’t matter when it comes to their chosen family. Then there is Lazaro…The big man has fallen and has fallen hard and fast. The love he portrays towards Amara is out of this world, swoon worthy. The interaction between the De Luca siblings and Rori makes my heart happy. One just knows this lot will become the best of friends.
As innocent as the title sounds, there is nothing innocent about this book. This might be my favourite book of the series, yet. After everything that Amara has been through she is still so innocent and trying to protect herself even when she has a family behind her who would give their lives protecting her. But she will eventually understand that blood doesn’t matter when it comes to their chosen family. Then there is Lazaro…The big man has fallen and has fallen hard and fast. The love he portrays towards Amara is out of this world, swoon worthy. The interaction between the De Luca siblings and Rori makes my heart happy. One just knows this lot will become the best of friends.
February 16, 2025
Amara is a lost De Luca daughter. Lazaro is the Mafia enforcer who volunteers to bring her home. Problem, Amara doesn't know she is a De Luca and her life has ensured she is a strong, independent business woman who has learned to not rely on anyone. Watching Lazaro, a man who expected to be obeyed without question, become the man Amara needs and watching Amara figure out she needs Lazaro is why I keep reading romances. I love HEAs the couples journey to get there. This the third book of the Lost De Luca Sister series and more is unveiled. There is a good balance of light to dark. Amara's thoughts I found laugh out loud funny. To get the most enjoyment of this book, you need to read Little Mouse and Little Rabbit first. I can't wait for the next one!!
February 21, 2025
Mafia romance
Alpha male
Strong FMC
Past Abuse/Violent trauma
Found Family
Found Family
End in a small cliffhanger
Amara has lived a very hard and tragic life. She does not trust anyone and that is no different when her tall dark, handsome client saves her.
Lazaro mission is to find Amara before her family does. A family she knows nothing about and a family who does not care what happens to her only wants her for their own person gain.
Lazaro as much as he is a true Mafia Alpha male, has a soft spot for Amara. He falls quick and falls hard. However he understands her trauma and will stop at nothing to show her that there is kindness and love in this world. He will climb any hill and fight every battle to show her the kind of love she deserves. Even if the person he has to fight is Amara herself.
This series is so good and this latest addition is no different. Cannot wait for the next one
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Alpha male
Strong FMC
Past Abuse/Violent trauma
Found Family
Found Family
End in a small cliffhanger
Amara has lived a very hard and tragic life. She does not trust anyone and that is no different when her tall dark, handsome client saves her.
Lazaro mission is to find Amara before her family does. A family she knows nothing about and a family who does not care what happens to her only wants her for their own person gain.
Lazaro as much as he is a true Mafia Alpha male, has a soft spot for Amara. He falls quick and falls hard. However he understands her trauma and will stop at nothing to show her that there is kindness and love in this world. He will climb any hill and fight every battle to show her the kind of love she deserves. Even if the person he has to fight is Amara herself.
This series is so good and this latest addition is no different. Cannot wait for the next one
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
February 16, 2025
How can I not rate this 5 stars!? This whole series is absolutely amazing. Trigger warnings should definitely be checked. Lazaro quickly became my favourite among the men with his determined , patient (not a lot but enough) and understanding way he was with Amara. Little dove had me swooning , yes he is still jealous and possessive but luckily Amara is not afraid to set him straight. She is a survivor and has an amazing strength that cannot be denied.I loved how all the men stood by their woman all supporting them and I loved even more how the woman are creating a family that will forever stay strong an unwavering bond.
February 25, 2025
Little Dove! more like Little Warrior!
I wasn’t sure what to expect before I read this book. Would the heroine be like Gia or like Sienna. But Maura went through so much trauma in her short life that she became strong like steel, a warrior that would not allow anyone to hurt her ever again. In walks Lazaro, who takes one look at the fiery woman and decides she belongs to him, even before knowing her true history! Maura tries so hard to keep him away, but he is determined to show her what she means to him, especially after finding out more about her past! He will kill for her, and she will let him! Such a great story! I loved it!
I wasn’t sure what to expect before I read this book. Would the heroine be like Gia or like Sienna. But Maura went through so much trauma in her short life that she became strong like steel, a warrior that would not allow anyone to hurt her ever again. In walks Lazaro, who takes one look at the fiery woman and decides she belongs to him, even before knowing her true history! Maura tries so hard to keep him away, but he is determined to show her what she means to him, especially after finding out more about her past! He will kill for her, and she will let him! Such a great story! I loved it!
February 12, 2025
This book is 500 pages of perfection. This series just keeps getting better and better as it goes. I like the patience, the passion, the dedication and obsession. I like how the FMC actually acts, thinks, doubts, and hesitates with certain things like someone would who actually went through trauma like she did. It wasn't just something that happened and then brushed away to move along with the story. There's real character development. Just like the other books, there's more twists and turns added to the background of the sisters. I can't wait to see what happens next.
February 14, 2025
Small town hair salon owner, Amara, has had a traumatic past and the townsfolk don’t treat her kindly. She doesn’t know she is one of the lost De Luca girls. Yet.
Tall, dark and very handsome Lazaro is sent to collect Amara and bring her into the family. Events take a dramatic turn as soon as they meet.
I loved this story, Amara is strong and feisty and Lazaro has his work cut out to getting his own way. A great storyline, plenty of twists, turns, action, suspense, revelations and an ending that has left me excited to get my hands on the next book.
Tall, dark and very handsome Lazaro is sent to collect Amara and bring her into the family. Events take a dramatic turn as soon as they meet.
I loved this story, Amara is strong and feisty and Lazaro has his work cut out to getting his own way. A great storyline, plenty of twists, turns, action, suspense, revelations and an ending that has left me excited to get my hands on the next book.
February 21, 2025
***ARC REVIEW***
Name: Little Dove
By: Emily Rose
Rate: 5 🌟
~This is so far my favorite book from this series... The action, the twists and turns... Just loved it all.. This story will drag you in and will not let you go. Amara FMC is sure one independent woman despite everything she has been through. She also hates when people tell her what to do... I love her feistiness. I did enjoy how she gave herself the chance to share what happened to her to those who will fight for her... Reading all that made me cry. Now let's talk about the tension between her and Larenzo... Like can we say holy hotness.... The way he was patient and gave her the best $3X was a uufff.... This story is now stuck in my head.... Can't wait for the next one.
Name: Little Dove
By: Emily Rose
Rate: 5 🌟
~This is so far my favorite book from this series... The action, the twists and turns... Just loved it all.. This story will drag you in and will not let you go. Amara FMC is sure one independent woman despite everything she has been through. She also hates when people tell her what to do... I love her feistiness. I did enjoy how she gave herself the chance to share what happened to her to those who will fight for her... Reading all that made me cry. Now let's talk about the tension between her and Larenzo... Like can we say holy hotness.... The way he was patient and gave her the best $3X was a uufff.... This story is now stuck in my head.... Can't wait for the next one.
February 20, 2025
One of my favourite mafia series. The books just keep getting better and better!. This author has managed a good balance between the romantic side of the story and the mafia wars. Good plot, action packed, well written spice that will have you curling your ties. I think Lazaro is the sweetest, yes, he is jealous over jealous but he treats Amara with such sweetness and love, giving her time, taking into consideration her past. Chefs kiss .
Seeing their relationship unfold was beautiful.
As always I enjoyed seeing the other women and men in this book too.
Seeing their relationship unfold was beautiful.
As always I enjoyed seeing the other women and men in this book too.
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