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Revenge Brides: The Vece Familia #1
Claiming His Mafia Princess
My world collapses when my older brother bids me to a mafia enforcer and loses.
He’s the man they call a beast, a monster—now my husband-to-be.
A high-stakes poker game with rivals tears my life apart.
No bet is off the table; cars, homes, and even women.
He carries me out kicking and screaming claiming me as his prize.
My life is no longer mine.
Underneath the long black coat, I discover a muscular, handsome man hidden from the world.
His unexpected kindness starts to confuse my hatred.
His strong arms pull me from my misery and into his private world of passion.
He wipes the tears from my eyes, telling me I belong to him.
His body touching mine makes me beg for more.
No man has ever touched me this way.
I can’t stop him, but the shiver of fear still lurks beneath.
I can’t ignore a promise of pleasure I’ve never known.
Accepting my fate, I’m nothing more than a poker chip….
He’s the man they call a beast, a monster—now my husband-to-be.
A high-stakes poker game with rivals tears my life apart.
No bet is off the table; cars, homes, and even women.
He carries me out kicking and screaming claiming me as his prize.
My life is no longer mine.
Underneath the long black coat, I discover a muscular, handsome man hidden from the world.
His unexpected kindness starts to confuse my hatred.
His strong arms pull me from my misery and into his private world of passion.
He wipes the tears from my eyes, telling me I belong to him.
His body touching mine makes me beg for more.
No man has ever touched me this way.
I can’t stop him, but the shiver of fear still lurks beneath.
I can’t ignore a promise of pleasure I’ve never known.
Accepting my fate, I’m nothing more than a poker chip….
191 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2024
206 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
August 15, 2024
I really like forced/arranged mafia books and this one was an okay read. For me there wasn’t enough tension, anger, feelings between the MC’s given the circumstances. I think there could have been more chemistry, more building up their feelings. The drama was good, but could have been explored better. The ending felt a bit rushed.
Their spicy moments were a bit too repetitive and could have explored more.
I would like more variety in the places or in the process.
I liked Nevio a lot, he was super sweet and gentle, despite his harsh upbringing. He wasn’t your typical macho alpha mafia men.
Overall it was a good read with room for improvement.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Their spicy moments were a bit too repetitive and could have explored more.
I would like more variety in the places or in the process.
I liked Nevio a lot, he was super sweet and gentle, despite his harsh upbringing. He wasn’t your typical macho alpha mafia men.
Overall it was a good read with room for improvement.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 15, 2025
good, but plot holes made a bumpy read
I really liked the bones of this story—I think if the author had invested in a editor this book COULD’VE been stellar, a 5 star read. It had a lot of great things about it:
The hero. OOF, I LOOOOVED him!! He has disfiguring birthmark and has been relegated to the shadows of the mafia, bullied and ridiculed and I loved his vulnerability and the way he yearned for someone to see HIM, beyond the birthmark. He also didn’t come off as a manwhore and I would’ve loved to know if he was a virgin, but there’s no mention whatsoever of a past.
I liked the heroine a lot less than the hero. She does really dumb shit, like take off when she knows there’s a threat against her. But her sweetness with the hero and the way she gave herself to him made me soften towards her. I also loved that she belonged only to the hero, she was innocent and she gives herself only to him.
But heres where I had a huge problem and where this book lost me:
BEWARE: SPOILERS AHEAD!!! READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!
So the hero gives the heroine a gift that has a tracking device in it. Hes able to use it the first time shes in trouble. BUT when the second time comes around, theres no mention of why he couldn’t find her thru the tracker. If it was ripped off her, why wasnt it mentioned? Or if she left it at home? Not a word. Its almost as if the author forgot about this VERY IMPORTANT detail she had used earlier in the book.
And the typos—-ughhhh, there were so many and they made entire passages clunky and disjointed. GET. A. DAMN. EDITOR!
And then there was this really ASININE scene where the heroine *almost* gets raped by the hero’s brother; hero beats him to a pulp, and then 5 minutes later its all forgiven, with the brother acting sheepish and apologetic. The entire scene was the definition of WTF?!? Why would the brother be attacking the heroine? Why would the hero so quickly forgive him? Why would the brother do a complete 180 and act all embarrassed?! If youre gonna go with an unhinged rapist brother, go for it, but dont turn it around and make him a “aw shucks, geez sorry” clown 5 mins later.
And maybe, just maybe I could’ve looked past the plot hole and the typos IF the ending hadn’t sucked so hard—there’s no real epilogue, no babies, just a rushed anti-climactic ending.
The possibility of a good story was here, but it was drowned out by all the BS
SAFE. hero’s past isn’t mentioned at all, but he comes off celibate, maybe a virgin. Heroine is a virgin and belongs only to her hero. No cheating or sharing. No ow drama, lots unwanted OM drama: heroine is almost raped by one OM, attacked and beaten severely by main OM villain. There is on page violence against heroine. No real epilogue, no babies, an abrupt ending with a very weak HEA
I really liked the bones of this story—I think if the author had invested in a editor this book COULD’VE been stellar, a 5 star read. It had a lot of great things about it:
The hero. OOF, I LOOOOVED him!! He has disfiguring birthmark and has been relegated to the shadows of the mafia, bullied and ridiculed and I loved his vulnerability and the way he yearned for someone to see HIM, beyond the birthmark. He also didn’t come off as a manwhore and I would’ve loved to know if he was a virgin, but there’s no mention whatsoever of a past.
I liked the heroine a lot less than the hero. She does really dumb shit, like take off when she knows there’s a threat against her. But her sweetness with the hero and the way she gave herself to him made me soften towards her. I also loved that she belonged only to the hero, she was innocent and she gives herself only to him.
But heres where I had a huge problem and where this book lost me:
BEWARE: SPOILERS AHEAD!!! READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!
So the hero gives the heroine a gift that has a tracking device in it. Hes able to use it the first time shes in trouble. BUT when the second time comes around, theres no mention of why he couldn’t find her thru the tracker. If it was ripped off her, why wasnt it mentioned? Or if she left it at home? Not a word. Its almost as if the author forgot about this VERY IMPORTANT detail she had used earlier in the book.
And the typos—-ughhhh, there were so many and they made entire passages clunky and disjointed. GET. A. DAMN. EDITOR!
And then there was this really ASININE scene where the heroine *almost* gets raped by the hero’s brother; hero beats him to a pulp, and then 5 minutes later its all forgiven, with the brother acting sheepish and apologetic. The entire scene was the definition of WTF?!? Why would the brother be attacking the heroine? Why would the hero so quickly forgive him? Why would the brother do a complete 180 and act all embarrassed?! If youre gonna go with an unhinged rapist brother, go for it, but dont turn it around and make him a “aw shucks, geez sorry” clown 5 mins later.
And maybe, just maybe I could’ve looked past the plot hole and the typos IF the ending hadn’t sucked so hard—there’s no real epilogue, no babies, just a rushed anti-climactic ending.
The possibility of a good story was here, but it was drowned out by all the BS
SAFE. hero’s past isn’t mentioned at all, but he comes off celibate, maybe a virgin. Heroine is a virgin and belongs only to her hero. No cheating or sharing. No ow drama, lots unwanted OM drama: heroine is almost raped by one OM, attacked and beaten severely by main OM villain. There is on page violence against heroine. No real epilogue, no babies, an abrupt ending with a very weak HEA
August 30, 2024
She is everything.
She is my world.
My universe.
My life.
My love.
“I would burn in the fire of a thousand suns to keep you safe.”
There was more telling than showing. I also found a lot of mistakes that got in the way, I don't know if that was due to it being an ARC. I did adore how he called her "baby girl." We are told he's dangerous, we are told he's a shadow, a monster, deadly but we never really see that side of him.
I received a free copy of this book and I voluntarily reviewed it.
She is my world.
My universe.
My life.
My love.
“I would burn in the fire of a thousand suns to keep you safe.”
There was more telling than showing. I also found a lot of mistakes that got in the way, I don't know if that was due to it being an ARC. I did adore how he called her "baby girl." We are told he's dangerous, we are told he's a shadow, a monster, deadly but we never really see that side of him.
I received a free copy of this book and I voluntarily reviewed it.
August 14, 2024
“This world knew the moment she was born that she would one day belong to me”
Dalila Vece is the only daughter to the Vece Family. She is the princess that all the men (Masaccio “Más”/Tuomo/Rufino “Red”/ Celso) protect or so she thought. She has never been kissed, touched, gone on a date all because she is too precious to leave the premises. There is something going on because her eldest brother and next in line for boss is Masaccio (twin #1) is in a mood and it looks like all her brothers are being pulled in for a meeting with her father, Vincent. But she is always in the dark because women don’t do anything in the mafia but stay in the kitchen and take care of the children. On the night of poker, where all the monsters of the mafia come to play. But her father is not staying and she begins to get worried he is leaving his brothers in charge and something bad is gonna happen. Nevio is known as the shadow monster. He has a blood red birthmark on his face that travels onto his chest and even though he is the eldest son and should be the heir to his father’s empire he is just the enforcer because he was born defective, or so his father and brother tell him all the time. So he is the quiet enforcer with a deathly reputation. He is known as deaf or mute because he doesn’t speak. He is at the Poker night and something is off. The father’s are missing from this night and Masaccio just put his sister up for grabs in the winning pot.
I was hooked into the story on the first chapter. Hannah Rio has a way with words and building this world of darkness, betrayal, the under belly of the world. This book has just a little bit of everything. Mafia wars, kidnapping, arranged marriage, sold to the enemy, hot and passionate scenes, the side of a monster no one sees and the monster that will walk into hell to get his girl. I seriously can’t wait for the other books to come out. Vece Familia is going to be an intense series. Every girl needs a man that…”I would burn in the fire of a thousand suns to keep you safe.”
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dalila Vece is the only daughter to the Vece Family. She is the princess that all the men (Masaccio “Más”/Tuomo/Rufino “Red”/ Celso) protect or so she thought. She has never been kissed, touched, gone on a date all because she is too precious to leave the premises. There is something going on because her eldest brother and next in line for boss is Masaccio (twin #1) is in a mood and it looks like all her brothers are being pulled in for a meeting with her father, Vincent. But she is always in the dark because women don’t do anything in the mafia but stay in the kitchen and take care of the children. On the night of poker, where all the monsters of the mafia come to play. But her father is not staying and she begins to get worried he is leaving his brothers in charge and something bad is gonna happen. Nevio is known as the shadow monster. He has a blood red birthmark on his face that travels onto his chest and even though he is the eldest son and should be the heir to his father’s empire he is just the enforcer because he was born defective, or so his father and brother tell him all the time. So he is the quiet enforcer with a deathly reputation. He is known as deaf or mute because he doesn’t speak. He is at the Poker night and something is off. The father’s are missing from this night and Masaccio just put his sister up for grabs in the winning pot.
I was hooked into the story on the first chapter. Hannah Rio has a way with words and building this world of darkness, betrayal, the under belly of the world. This book has just a little bit of everything. Mafia wars, kidnapping, arranged marriage, sold to the enemy, hot and passionate scenes, the side of a monster no one sees and the monster that will walk into hell to get his girl. I seriously can’t wait for the other books to come out. Vece Familia is going to be an intense series. Every girl needs a man that…”I would burn in the fire of a thousand suns to keep you safe.”
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 4, 2024
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book from Book Sirens for an honest review.
I kept finding typos within the first few fifty pages, the female main character is very annoying and quite frankly stupid considering her background and position. There is also a gross overuse of the miscommunication trope. The brother won't say anything, the husband doesn't say anything, and the FMC is a brat just for being a brat, even though it is explained multiple times that she was raised in the Mafia and she knows better than to rebel...but rebels anyway? She knows that she is in danger, she trusts Nevio but doesn't trust him so she decides to run away from the security detail and get caught by the big bad guy anyway, who the other characters are just conveniently talking about at the same time.
Characters are very one-dimensional, they are only defined by their roles in the Mafia as it lends to the story but what does Delila enjoy? What does Nevio have going for him besides his reputation (which he always mentions)? And the writing does a lot more TELLING than showing, so much of the characters telling us what is going to happen, or what has happened, or "the drive was uneventful" or "I knew I won the poker game." Which is another thing - HOW did he win the poker game? How did the brother make sure he won? There are no details! I didn't even know he won until he said that he won. There was no exchange - no tension other than what the MMC was building up in his own mind. We didn't actually SEE the game happen, didn't SEE his interactions with anyone else besides seeing FMC in the kitchen for the first time.
I wanted to enjoy it - the concept of this book and the second book are very good! Just the execution really needs work. The characters need to be people, not caricatures. Even if there isn't an overall plot, then the reader relies on the strength of the characters and their relationships. But if they are just paper cutouts of what people could be, why would we root for them to succeed?
I kept finding typos within the first few fifty pages, the female main character is very annoying and quite frankly stupid considering her background and position. There is also a gross overuse of the miscommunication trope. The brother won't say anything, the husband doesn't say anything, and the FMC is a brat just for being a brat, even though it is explained multiple times that she was raised in the Mafia and she knows better than to rebel...but rebels anyway? She knows that she is in danger, she trusts Nevio but doesn't trust him so she decides to run away from the security detail and get caught by the big bad guy anyway, who the other characters are just conveniently talking about at the same time.
Characters are very one-dimensional, they are only defined by their roles in the Mafia as it lends to the story but what does Delila enjoy? What does Nevio have going for him besides his reputation (which he always mentions)? And the writing does a lot more TELLING than showing, so much of the characters telling us what is going to happen, or what has happened, or "the drive was uneventful" or "I knew I won the poker game." Which is another thing - HOW did he win the poker game? How did the brother make sure he won? There are no details! I didn't even know he won until he said that he won. There was no exchange - no tension other than what the MMC was building up in his own mind. We didn't actually SEE the game happen, didn't SEE his interactions with anyone else besides seeing FMC in the kitchen for the first time.
I wanted to enjoy it - the concept of this book and the second book are very good! Just the execution really needs work. The characters need to be people, not caricatures. Even if there isn't an overall plot, then the reader relies on the strength of the characters and their relationships. But if they are just paper cutouts of what people could be, why would we root for them to succeed?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️ (Several open door spicy scenes, that weren't overly explicit)
Received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I went into this book blind, and a first time author for me. I was immediately drawn in by Dalila. I tend to be more drawn into Mafia stories that portray a shelter girl, finding her voice. And Dalila was just that. Plus she made me laugh "I am not even allowed a damn dog in case it bites me. As though all dogs just automatically bite." Well like my grandma used to say they have teeth 🤣.
This book is a great reminder of trusting the process, because I was about to be very heartbroken that she went from praising her brothers to being gambled away in a poker game.
Remember ladies and gentlemen, it's always the quiet ones that end up being the undercover super freaks.
Beauty and The Beast was never one of my favorite Disney movies growing up, other than the music, but after this year of getting back into reading, I'm starting to have a soft spot for Beauty and the Beast retellings.
I loved Dalila, a little spitfire who was not taking her fate laying down. Nevio was a misunderstood sweetheart towards Dailia. And I enjoyed reading their love story.
I wish this book was longer, and the characters were more fleshed out, because the ending was a little rushed, and I felt like I didn't get to know anyone well. The time skips were slightly confusing, but nothing to lose sleep over.
First book by this author, and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
🌶️🌶️ (Several open door spicy scenes, that weren't overly explicit)
Received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I went into this book blind, and a first time author for me. I was immediately drawn in by Dalila. I tend to be more drawn into Mafia stories that portray a shelter girl, finding her voice. And Dalila was just that. Plus she made me laugh "I am not even allowed a damn dog in case it bites me. As though all dogs just automatically bite." Well like my grandma used to say they have teeth 🤣.
This book is a great reminder of trusting the process, because I was about to be very heartbroken that she went from praising her brothers to being gambled away in a poker game.
Remember ladies and gentlemen, it's always the quiet ones that end up being the undercover super freaks.
Beauty and The Beast was never one of my favorite Disney movies growing up, other than the music, but after this year of getting back into reading, I'm starting to have a soft spot for Beauty and the Beast retellings.
I loved Dalila, a little spitfire who was not taking her fate laying down. Nevio was a misunderstood sweetheart towards Dailia. And I enjoyed reading their love story.
I wish this book was longer, and the characters were more fleshed out, because the ending was a little rushed, and I felt like I didn't get to know anyone well. The time skips were slightly confusing, but nothing to lose sleep over.
First book by this author, and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
August 22, 2024
Her Unexpected Guardian Angel -
As the only female in the family, Dalila had been extremely protective all her life, so she was extremely upset when her marriage was arranged via bet on poker night. Nevio had always been seen as an oddball, but he knew he something wasn’t right and stepped up to claim Dalila, when her brother offered her as part of the winning pot during the poker game. Their marriage may have started out on the wrong foot, but Nevio’s attraction for Dalila grew the ,ore time they spent together.
Unfortunately, Dalila’s life was placed in jeopardy just before Nevio could uncover the truth behind the reason she was offered as a prize on poker, but he was luckily able to resolve the problem quickly. However, finding out the truth didn’t keep Dalila safe, as she again found herself in a dire situation, but Nevio did everything possible to not only rescue her, but also deal with the threat to her permanently, so they could get back on track towards the happy life they were building.
This emotionally challenging and suspense-filled story had everything you would expect in a mafia romance, but it had an added morally corrupt twist you will never expect, that will have you squirming on the edge of your seat. I really enjoyed reading this story, so if this book is the start to the Vece Familia Series, then I am definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
As the only female in the family, Dalila had been extremely protective all her life, so she was extremely upset when her marriage was arranged via bet on poker night. Nevio had always been seen as an oddball, but he knew he something wasn’t right and stepped up to claim Dalila, when her brother offered her as part of the winning pot during the poker game. Their marriage may have started out on the wrong foot, but Nevio’s attraction for Dalila grew the ,ore time they spent together.
Unfortunately, Dalila’s life was placed in jeopardy just before Nevio could uncover the truth behind the reason she was offered as a prize on poker, but he was luckily able to resolve the problem quickly. However, finding out the truth didn’t keep Dalila safe, as she again found herself in a dire situation, but Nevio did everything possible to not only rescue her, but also deal with the threat to her permanently, so they could get back on track towards the happy life they were building.
This emotionally challenging and suspense-filled story had everything you would expect in a mafia romance, but it had an added morally corrupt twist you will never expect, that will have you squirming on the edge of your seat. I really enjoyed reading this story, so if this book is the start to the Vece Familia Series, then I am definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 16, 2024
The Vece Familia Mafia is in trouble, and much to their horror, Masaccio, Rufino, Celso, and Tuomo Vece realize their father Vincent sold their sister to the sickest mafia man, Malone, to save himself. Masaccio tries to prevent this trade and save his sister by “gambling” her away in a poker game. Nevio, a much-feared mafia enforcer wins her, and soon realizes Masaccio wanted him to win Dalila so he could marry her and protect her. Instead of seeing the monster everyone thinks Nevio to be, Dalila sees him as a handsome, kind man and they begin a passionate marriage. Unfortunately, Dalila still gets taken hostage, and the Vece brothers and Nevio have to fight to get her back.
Goodness, these characters, considered to be “monsters, murderers, criminals and all of the very bottom of the barrel of humanity,” were scary! Rio did a fantastic job describing them because I swear my skin was crawling when I read about them. Poor Dalila is just a pawn in a vicious game of death and dishonor. The storyline was well paced with lots of twists and had me on the edge of my seat until the end. Rio also did a good job with world-building that will ultimately lead to more books in the series. I definitely recommend this book for readers that like mafia, enemies to lovers, age gap, dark and steamy romance stories. Oh, did I mention the cover model is HOT!?
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Goodness, these characters, considered to be “monsters, murderers, criminals and all of the very bottom of the barrel of humanity,” were scary! Rio did a fantastic job describing them because I swear my skin was crawling when I read about them. Poor Dalila is just a pawn in a vicious game of death and dishonor. The storyline was well paced with lots of twists and had me on the edge of my seat until the end. Rio also did a good job with world-building that will ultimately lead to more books in the series. I definitely recommend this book for readers that like mafia, enemies to lovers, age gap, dark and steamy romance stories. Oh, did I mention the cover model is HOT!?
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2024
ARC Review 🤍
4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
This story wasn’t a long one but still had a very well written plot. It captures your interest very early on. I really enjoyed the side of Nevio that only Dalila was able to bring out of him. Their story wasn’t the conventional love story but it was special nonetheless. 💕
I am excited to see what comes next in the Vece family. I am itching for Mas’ story.
Nevio, the scary ghost man that everyone is terrified of, goes to a poker night one evening. He stumbles upon Dalila and is immediately mesmerized by her. When he overhears her oldest brother using her as a winning in his poker game - Nevio knows what he needs to do. He needs to win that poker game. That way, Dalila will be his. In their world that means she will have to become his wife.
Dalila is ripped away from her home in the middle of the night and is forced to marry Nevio without any explanation. She knows of him as being the terrifying silent ghost man that has a track record of killing a lot of people. What she doesn’t expect is that her new husband has a soft spot for her. He will never hurt her. Only protect and show her the love she always deserved. When the truth is revealed of why her brother was so insistent on selling her off - her world is flipped upside down.
Tropes -
- Mafia Romance
- Forced Marriage
- Kidnapping
- Forced Proximity
- Virgin FMC
4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
This story wasn’t a long one but still had a very well written plot. It captures your interest very early on. I really enjoyed the side of Nevio that only Dalila was able to bring out of him. Their story wasn’t the conventional love story but it was special nonetheless. 💕
I am excited to see what comes next in the Vece family. I am itching for Mas’ story.
Nevio, the scary ghost man that everyone is terrified of, goes to a poker night one evening. He stumbles upon Dalila and is immediately mesmerized by her. When he overhears her oldest brother using her as a winning in his poker game - Nevio knows what he needs to do. He needs to win that poker game. That way, Dalila will be his. In their world that means she will have to become his wife.
Dalila is ripped away from her home in the middle of the night and is forced to marry Nevio without any explanation. She knows of him as being the terrifying silent ghost man that has a track record of killing a lot of people. What she doesn’t expect is that her new husband has a soft spot for her. He will never hurt her. Only protect and show her the love she always deserved. When the truth is revealed of why her brother was so insistent on selling her off - her world is flipped upside down.
Tropes -
- Mafia Romance
- Forced Marriage
- Kidnapping
- Forced Proximity
- Virgin FMC
August 28, 2024
What happens when your brothers lose you in a poker game to a man that you don’t even know. Well you get married. This is the opening premise of Claiming his Mafia Princess. Dalila is the only girl in a family of brothers. She is shelters as the only daughter but she has a rebellious streak that seems to be causing an issue with her father and brothers. When her brothers host a regular poker night her oldest brother proposes the winner gets his sister as a bride. When Dalila is awoken later that night to her oldest brother and Nevio she rages and cries as he carries her away. Nevio doesn’t understand exactly what is going on but he is drawn to Dalila and vows to keep her safe from not only a bad match when he wins the game, but also the unspoken words behind why her brother insists she leaves that night.
I immediately loved the entire premise of this book and I am glad I took a chance and snatched a copy on Hidden Gems. It was entertaining with a morally grey MMC and a little bit of Instalove sprinkled in. You even have a bit of mystery to find out why this all happened the way it did. You have a little TSTL vibes based on Dalila’s rebellious and stubborn streak but it advances the story in a way that makes sense. Overall, cute story and I am looking forward to seeing how Dalila’s brothers meet their matches.
I immediately loved the entire premise of this book and I am glad I took a chance and snatched a copy on Hidden Gems. It was entertaining with a morally grey MMC and a little bit of Instalove sprinkled in. You even have a bit of mystery to find out why this all happened the way it did. You have a little TSTL vibes based on Dalila’s rebellious and stubborn streak but it advances the story in a way that makes sense. Overall, cute story and I am looking forward to seeing how Dalila’s brothers meet their matches.
August 16, 2024
A Dark mafia romance. This story is not as dark as some of the books in the mafia genre that I have read, but in saying that, it is story of a Mafia Princess being given to a dark Mafia enforcer against her will. Her Eldest brother lost her in a poker game, and her life changed dramatically when she became Nevio's wife.
Not knowing the real reason behind her family gambling her away like a commodity, Dalila decides she will find out what is happening herself, within her own mafia family.
Danger does lurk around every corner, and as Nevio lets her meet up with her father, the effects of being in the mafia come into play. First an unwanted marriage to a man who does not know her then a kidnapping, and a near death experience all occur within a matter of weeks. Being with Nevio should keep the dangers at bay, but the one person everyone fears, due to his brutality, is determined to have what was promised to him by Dalila's father.
Known as the shadow, even Nevio could not keep Dalila safe.
A rollercoaster ride, with not as much angst as I would have liked in a Mafiaso book, but still worth a read.
4 stars from me!
Not knowing the real reason behind her family gambling her away like a commodity, Dalila decides she will find out what is happening herself, within her own mafia family.
Danger does lurk around every corner, and as Nevio lets her meet up with her father, the effects of being in the mafia come into play. First an unwanted marriage to a man who does not know her then a kidnapping, and a near death experience all occur within a matter of weeks. Being with Nevio should keep the dangers at bay, but the one person everyone fears, due to his brutality, is determined to have what was promised to him by Dalila's father.
Known as the shadow, even Nevio could not keep Dalila safe.
A rollercoaster ride, with not as much angst as I would have liked in a Mafiaso book, but still worth a read.
4 stars from me!
August 27, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Life is hard in the mafia world, especially for Dalila. She was raised by her father and four brothers, being the only female in the house entailed her to be traditional and have her place in the kitchen for them. Until one tragic night where her oldest brother bets her hand in marriage during the mafia poker night. Nevio, one of the strongest men in their world knew he had to get her away so no other man could cause harm and he did just that, he won her.
You follow along the storyline learning the true reason as to why she was sold off and the plot only thickens from there. The forced/arranged marriage played in both of their favor as they both learned what love truly feels like.
The only reason I gave it a 4/5 was due to a few grammar mishaps, misspellings happen and it’s doesn’t fully break the story if you understand what it’s meant to say. Overall a good read.
Life is hard in the mafia world, especially for Dalila. She was raised by her father and four brothers, being the only female in the house entailed her to be traditional and have her place in the kitchen for them. Until one tragic night where her oldest brother bets her hand in marriage during the mafia poker night. Nevio, one of the strongest men in their world knew he had to get her away so no other man could cause harm and he did just that, he won her.
You follow along the storyline learning the true reason as to why she was sold off and the plot only thickens from there. The forced/arranged marriage played in both of their favor as they both learned what love truly feels like.
The only reason I gave it a 4/5 was due to a few grammar mishaps, misspellings happen and it’s doesn’t fully break the story if you understand what it’s meant to say. Overall a good read.
August 18, 2024
Wow, this isn't a really dark mafia family kind of story, it's much more focused on the main couple and how their relationship develops but that was so beautiful to read!
The story starts off at a poker night where the main couple, Dalila and Nevio meet briefly but she's asleep when her brother decides to up the stakes of the game by offering her virginity and hand in marriage. Nevio decides he needs to be the one to win to protect her from the other options around the table. What starts with a gamble becomes an epic love story of connection, support and real happiness that neither of them saw coming.
There are challenges to overcome but this is a beautiful story with drama and intimacy, a real classic love story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story starts off at a poker night where the main couple, Dalila and Nevio meet briefly but she's asleep when her brother decides to up the stakes of the game by offering her virginity and hand in marriage. Nevio decides he needs to be the one to win to protect her from the other options around the table. What starts with a gamble becomes an epic love story of connection, support and real happiness that neither of them saw coming.
There are challenges to overcome but this is a beautiful story with drama and intimacy, a real classic love story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2024
This book was action packed from start to finish. The players involved seemed to have varying intentions, leaving Nevio and Dalila to piece things together in their own. Yeah, yhat would be easier if they had ANY kind if relationship. But first, they have to learn to trust eachother.
As the story progresses, more is learned about the shadowy figure that us Nevio (the past that shaped the man he's become). Dalila, the spoiled Mafia princess, certainly gains a new appreciation for her cushy life, and it's not all roses. Yet the question remains, can they trust eachother fully, and will unity be enough to stop what's headed straight for them?
My only wish is that this book was longer. I'm hoping the brothers get a story, and we see more of Nevio and Dalila in the future.
As the story progresses, more is learned about the shadowy figure that us Nevio (the past that shaped the man he's become). Dalila, the spoiled Mafia princess, certainly gains a new appreciation for her cushy life, and it's not all roses. Yet the question remains, can they trust eachother fully, and will unity be enough to stop what's headed straight for them?
My only wish is that this book was longer. I'm hoping the brothers get a story, and we see more of Nevio and Dalila in the future.
August 22, 2024
When I read the blurb of the book, I was immediately interested because it sounded just like the type of book I usually enjoy, however there were some things that didn't feel quite right. Firstly, I felt like the story was really rushed and I also found the writing to be slightly confusing. Secondly, the relationship between the main characters was so weird, because he "wins" her in a poker game and then they start feeling this connection between them and are immediately in love...like what?? Even though I didn't love the book, I thought the plot was somewhat interesting and I did read it in a day, so do with that information what you will.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 4, 2024
It was a good quick read. I liked the story, at first it seemed like the mfc was a bratty shallow character and I wasn't sure I would like her. She changed pretty quickly although she had a very big lack of self preservation and common sense at times. I liked Nevio's character and how kind and understanding he was. I kind of felt like he had a right to be annoyed and angry with her sometimes but he never was. There were a few minor spelling and editing issues, and i would have liked a epilogue a few years later maybe to see if they have children, but overall, it was a good read and I would read the next addition to the series
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
September 9, 2024
Excellent. Entertaining. Romantic. Tragic. Dangerous. It’s got everything.
Dalila‘s brother plans a poker game when Nevio is there and makes sure Nevio wins. But what does he win, what is his prize? You guessed it, Dalila, his sister. No one, even Dalila and Nevio, know what is really going on and why he is in such a rush to get her married. Nevio is the black sheep of his family and everyone considers him damaged goods, unable to lead, and not worthy of his father‘s love, but Dalila only sees those cool, blue, trusting, loving eyes that he has for her. A tangled web of lies and deceit, but with the most wonderful happily ever after ending. You would never believe that two people could love each other so much just after a few days. I positively loved it. And I’m sure you will too.
Dalila‘s brother plans a poker game when Nevio is there and makes sure Nevio wins. But what does he win, what is his prize? You guessed it, Dalila, his sister. No one, even Dalila and Nevio, know what is really going on and why he is in such a rush to get her married. Nevio is the black sheep of his family and everyone considers him damaged goods, unable to lead, and not worthy of his father‘s love, but Dalila only sees those cool, blue, trusting, loving eyes that he has for her. A tangled web of lies and deceit, but with the most wonderful happily ever after ending. You would never believe that two people could love each other so much just after a few days. I positively loved it. And I’m sure you will too.
October 1, 2024
Another in a series of stories about the mafia, a strong and "dark" man and an innocent and shy princess. But in this story he is not perfectly beautiful and that makes him different from the others. His tenderness and gentleness towards his wife is somewhat surprising. From kidnapping, arranged marriage to rival mafia settlements and imperfect family relationships, this story has a little bit of everything, including romance and passion. All in all, the book is not bad, but it didn't knock me off my feet, so I can say that it entered the top 10 best read. I would definitely recommend anyone who likes this topic to read it and make their own judgement, because opinions are individual, as are tastes.
October 2, 2024
It was ok. It was good I’ll not lie but not the best out there. Author claims it’s a dark romance, it’s not.
The MFC was initially kinda forced into it but it takes like one car ride from her house to MMC’s house that too like minutes after she was carried out of her bed midnight to make her fall for him and accept that they are going to marry. There is not one bit dark. It’s a very quick read. Things that were promised were not delivered and nothing is concrete. The conflict keeps changing with every dialogue. It’s not a forced marriage. She willingly marries and they fall in love very quickly.
There was no depth to the plot. Things seemed like they were put there just because people like to read them. It was all patchy and unnecessary.
The MFC was initially kinda forced into it but it takes like one car ride from her house to MMC’s house that too like minutes after she was carried out of her bed midnight to make her fall for him and accept that they are going to marry. There is not one bit dark. It’s a very quick read. Things that were promised were not delivered and nothing is concrete. The conflict keeps changing with every dialogue. It’s not a forced marriage. She willingly marries and they fall in love very quickly.
There was no depth to the plot. Things seemed like they were put there just because people like to read them. It was all patchy and unnecessary.
March 26, 2025
"3.5 Stars - A Promising but Flawed Mafia Romance" 🤓
Dalila, a young Mafia Princess, is forced into a complicated situation when she's won by Nevio, a ruthless enforcer with a troubled past.
When Dalila is taken by a ruthless man, Nevio's desperate search for her adds an intense layer to the story. While some plot threads, like the tracking device, felt overlooked, the overall narrative remained engaging. It was there once before.. but no mention of it second time.
The story had some minor mistakes, but the author's attempt to balance the darker themes with the blossoming romance was commendable. I liked it, but felt it could have been even more compelling with further development.
Dalila, a young Mafia Princess, is forced into a complicated situation when she's won by Nevio, a ruthless enforcer with a troubled past.
When Dalila is taken by a ruthless man, Nevio's desperate search for her adds an intense layer to the story. While some plot threads, like the tracking device, felt overlooked, the overall narrative remained engaging. It was there once before.. but no mention of it second time.
The story had some minor mistakes, but the author's attempt to balance the darker themes with the blossoming romance was commendable. I liked it, but felt it could have been even more compelling with further development.
September 3, 2024
This book was a quick, fun read with a Beauty & the Beast twist set in the mafia world. Dalila, a sheltered mafia princess, ends up as the prize in a high-stakes poker game. But Nevio, sensing something's off, decides he’s going to win her, and he does.
Dalila’s life flips upside down when she’s forced to marry Nevio. She’s scared, confused, and unsure what to expect from this dangerous man. But Nevio surprises her with a side no one else sees — he’s protective, kind, and even loving.
It’s a short story, but I really enjoyed it! I would’ve liked a bit more spice, but it was still a great read.
Dalila’s life flips upside down when she’s forced to marry Nevio. She’s scared, confused, and unsure what to expect from this dangerous man. But Nevio surprises her with a side no one else sees — he’s protective, kind, and even loving.
It’s a short story, but I really enjoyed it! I would’ve liked a bit more spice, but it was still a great read.
September 20, 2024
I enjoy dark mafia stories as there is always a lot of pushback between the MC and FMC.
This one is not dark at that level. It is actually sweet on the MCs part as he really wants the FMC .. to cherish and protect her.
There are outside actions that brought them together .. a reason for her brother to offer her as the payout on a card game…
Don’t get me wrong there is the normal mafia type stuff .. unaliving, kidnapping .. but there is more good than bad.
There are also numerous typos and editing issues that I don’t expect when a book is already live and able to be purchased.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This one is not dark at that level. It is actually sweet on the MCs part as he really wants the FMC .. to cherish and protect her.
There are outside actions that brought them together .. a reason for her brother to offer her as the payout on a card game…
Don’t get me wrong there is the normal mafia type stuff .. unaliving, kidnapping .. but there is more good than bad.
There are also numerous typos and editing issues that I don’t expect when a book is already live and able to be purchased.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 1, 2024
He may be the first born, but he will never be the head of the family, so he becomes a shadow. Having to attend the poker game to save face the last thing he expects to win is a wife. However when he learns that Mas is putting his sister on the table, he knows that he has to win to keep her safe. Lila knows that one day she will have to marry for the family, but never expects it to be so soon or to Nev, the man that everyone is afraid of. As she leaves the truth about what is really going on in her family, she realizes that she is exactly where she needs to be.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2024
OMG 😱 this was another great book. It was a steamy page turner and the suspense was incredible intense. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t even put it down. Dalila and Nevio chemistry was sexual tension and the physical attraction was sensation and passionate. Life was chaos between them. She was the mafia princess and he was the mafia enforcer. I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones
August 18, 2024
Not what I was expecting but I loved it. I loved Nevio and the compassion he showed Dalila before and after their marriage. I loved the many sides to him and especially the ones that only Dalila saw. She is danger and he will do anything to keep her safe. The story has been very well thought out and presented in such a way that it makes you want to read more. This is a story that I would highly recommend .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksirens and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksirens and are voluntarily leaving a review.
September 8, 2024
It was cute, spicy, and adventures but it felt like it was missing something. I wish we could have had more time with main characters getting to know each other. I know it was insta-love which was cute as well but I wanted Dalila to at least get to know his middle name lol, that would have made it 5 stars for me. Needless to say I still liked it and would recommend to any friends who enjoy mafia romance and I look forward to the other books in this series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 16, 2024
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story was about Dalila Vece she is a Mafia Princess and Nevio he is a poker player an Enforcer a killer. She is not happy with what happened to her, but surprised that Nevio was known as a monster but to her he was gentle with her, their chemistry between them was hot and steamy. There also was kidnapping, arranged marriage, sold to the enemy, hot and passionate scenes, with sides of a monster no one sees but her.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story was about Dalila Vece she is a Mafia Princess and Nevio he is a poker player an Enforcer a killer. She is not happy with what happened to her, but surprised that Nevio was known as a monster but to her he was gentle with her, their chemistry between them was hot and steamy. There also was kidnapping, arranged marriage, sold to the enemy, hot and passionate scenes, with sides of a monster no one sees but her.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 28, 2024
Nev and Lila. He stays in the showsows and is feared. Shes a sister that has been bet in a poker game that her brother loses to Nev. He only excepted the bet to win because letting any of the others win would be her downfall. She finds out not only does her brother betray her but her father as well. Well written a great read and couldnt put it down.
Theres abuse, betrayal, kidnapping, love, and could put it down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Theres abuse, betrayal, kidnapping, love, and could put it down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 19, 2024
From Bad Circumstances to Book Husband
Dalila and Nevio are the couple that just get each other despite how much of an unlikely pair they seem to be. He’s bad on the outside to everyone else but quickly climbs the charts of a great book husband-good just for her. Nev continues to do right by Lila and give this unconventional marriage the best start it can have and I am here for it.
My first Hannah Rio book and I can’t wait to explore more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dalila and Nevio are the couple that just get each other despite how much of an unlikely pair they seem to be. He’s bad on the outside to everyone else but quickly climbs the charts of a great book husband-good just for her. Nev continues to do right by Lila and give this unconventional marriage the best start it can have and I am here for it.
My first Hannah Rio book and I can’t wait to explore more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 23, 2024
What can I not say about this book? It is absolutely mind blowing, a page turner, and shows you that no matter what you look like love is only skin deep inside is where it is. Delila gets gambled off in a poker to a man that everyone calls a monster because of a scar he was born with. But there’s a secret why! Delila learns that the man is the sweetest man ever. Nevio Instantly falls in love and can’t believe he actually got to marry her but something happened that make you question love, family, and trust. Will Delila and Nevio have the happy ever after they’ve wanted?
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