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Raw Bloody Power
Two households, both alike in dignity.
In fair Verona where we lay our scene...
Except Verona is Manhattan, and the only tragedy here is the fact I can’t paint the streets red with rival blood. Hers especially. Ivory Belucci isn’t just the daughter of the adversary.
She’s the bane of my existence.
Once upon a time I loved her, but some betrayals cut beyond skin deep. So deep, in fact, I warned her never to return. She didn’t listen, leaving me no choice but to wage a war outside the lines of our families decades-old vendetta. Hit after hit, I have the upper hand… until suddenly, I don’t.
A new player enters the chat.
And now I need her help.
Secretly working with her will prove to be a grave mistake, though, because the iron wall that once stood between us crumbles to ash under the pressures of a past love unresolved and a lethal lust neither one of us can ignore. Yet as we straddle the fine line between love and hate, we’re quickly forced back into the sobering reality that we can never be.
He might have her father’s blessing, but he’ll never have what’s mine.
I am the heir to the Guerra throne, and Ivory will take her rightful place as my Queen.
Curse of the star-crossed lovers be damned.
**Please Raw Bloody Power is NOT a dark romance. It is mafia with a morally grey MMC hellbent on making his ex pay for her sins until another man slides into the picture and hate becomes jealousy. Some scenes contain a range of grey-dark content, but it is not a dark romance in its entirety.
In fair Verona where we lay our scene...
Except Verona is Manhattan, and the only tragedy here is the fact I can’t paint the streets red with rival blood. Hers especially. Ivory Belucci isn’t just the daughter of the adversary.
She’s the bane of my existence.
Once upon a time I loved her, but some betrayals cut beyond skin deep. So deep, in fact, I warned her never to return. She didn’t listen, leaving me no choice but to wage a war outside the lines of our families decades-old vendetta. Hit after hit, I have the upper hand… until suddenly, I don’t.
A new player enters the chat.
And now I need her help.
Secretly working with her will prove to be a grave mistake, though, because the iron wall that once stood between us crumbles to ash under the pressures of a past love unresolved and a lethal lust neither one of us can ignore. Yet as we straddle the fine line between love and hate, we’re quickly forced back into the sobering reality that we can never be.
He might have her father’s blessing, but he’ll never have what’s mine.
I am the heir to the Guerra throne, and Ivory will take her rightful place as my Queen.
Curse of the star-crossed lovers be damned.
**Please Raw Bloody Power is NOT a dark romance. It is mafia with a morally grey MMC hellbent on making his ex pay for her sins until another man slides into the picture and hate becomes jealousy. Some scenes contain a range of grey-dark content, but it is not a dark romance in its entirety.
636 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2024
46 people are currently reading
341 people want to read
About the author
Dee Garcia
45 books851 followersDee Garcia is a voracious fan of romance novels and a long time lover of the written word. Her mission is to craft unique, compelling stories that will give her readers a place to briefly escape the trials and tribulations of everyday reality. With headstrong heroine's who don't need a man to stand on their own two feet, Dee hopes to leave her mark in the Indie world, one plot twist at a time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
June 26, 2025
Rtc after i wake up 🙂↕️
November 12, 2024
ARC Review for Raw Bloody Power by Dee Garcia❤️🔥
I feel incredibly lucky to have received an arc to this book. It’s been a while since I’ve read a mafia romance book so I’m glad I was able to read one at a time where I’m in a reading slump, which I’m not in one anymore thanks to this book!!
Raw Bloody Power captured my attention straight from the beginning. I found it to be entertaining in the “enemies to-“ aspect of the story, there were extremely “fanning myself” moments *whew!!*, and the Romeo and Juliet vibes were there in the sense that it’s not a retelling of Shakespeare’s Tragedy retelling it just has some inspired similarities that give off Romeo and Juliet vibes. Ya know?
In this book you have the beautiful Ivory Belucci, owner of a bakery and baker, while also working for her father, who’s a Don. Then there’s Rio Guerra, a sexy, motorcycle-riding man who’s the Guerra heir, ready to assume the Don role when the time eventually comes. He’s super involved in the family business while keeping his younger brothers in line as they work in the actual family business that is a Pizzeria.
The hate between them is still burns bright eleven years after their breakup until Rio has to set aside his supposed dislike for his ex and approaches Ivory for her help when it comes to a rival, which then ignites their fiery and breathtaking enemies with benefits rendezvous (and more of the story). So hotttt!!!!!
In my opinion, the book is definitely worth a read!
🫀Romeo & Juliet vibes
🫀Italian mob
🫀Rival families
🫀Enemies with benefits
🫀Enemies to lovers
🫀Hate to love you
🫀He falls first
🫀Second chance
🫀Touch her and die
🫀No 3rd act break-up
BOOK RELEASES NOVEMBER 14TH, GET READY!!!!
I feel incredibly lucky to have received an arc to this book. It’s been a while since I’ve read a mafia romance book so I’m glad I was able to read one at a time where I’m in a reading slump, which I’m not in one anymore thanks to this book!!
Raw Bloody Power captured my attention straight from the beginning. I found it to be entertaining in the “enemies to-“ aspect of the story, there were extremely “fanning myself” moments *whew!!*, and the Romeo and Juliet vibes were there in the sense that it’s not a retelling of Shakespeare’s Tragedy retelling it just has some inspired similarities that give off Romeo and Juliet vibes. Ya know?
In this book you have the beautiful Ivory Belucci, owner of a bakery and baker, while also working for her father, who’s a Don. Then there’s Rio Guerra, a sexy, motorcycle-riding man who’s the Guerra heir, ready to assume the Don role when the time eventually comes. He’s super involved in the family business while keeping his younger brothers in line as they work in the actual family business that is a Pizzeria.
The hate between them is still burns bright eleven years after their breakup until Rio has to set aside his supposed dislike for his ex and approaches Ivory for her help when it comes to a rival, which then ignites their fiery and breathtaking enemies with benefits rendezvous (and more of the story). So hotttt!!!!!
In my opinion, the book is definitely worth a read!
🫀Romeo & Juliet vibes
🫀Italian mob
🫀Rival families
🫀Enemies with benefits
🫀Enemies to lovers
🫀Hate to love you
🫀He falls first
🫀Second chance
🫀Touch her and die
🫀No 3rd act break-up
BOOK RELEASES NOVEMBER 14TH, GET READY!!!!
July 1, 2025
Omgggg
the princess can save herself in this one, but she has to know that her prince will always defend her honor!!!
RIO AND IVORY WERE EVERYTHIN!!
The rivalry between families translating to him hating her as a kid without being able to explain this claim he wanted to her fear not realising he was just crushing hard on her.
their chemistry? palpitable
their love? obssesive
intimacy? wholesome
matter of fact, they were infatuated with one another jeeezzz.
the whole Benedikt plot? I actually liked this storytelling in a mafia romance, violence and SA aside (I can always go without this in my books for the fmc) but the aftermath and Rio and Ivory's dad team up kinda made up for it.
wowww why do I always leave good books sit so long in my tbr shelf 😭.
PS. hottest bike scene I have ever read was in this book.
the princess can save herself in this one, but she has to know that her prince will always defend her honor!!!
RIO AND IVORY WERE EVERYTHIN!!
The rivalry between families translating to him hating her as a kid without being able to explain this claim he wanted to her fear not realising he was just crushing hard on her.
their chemistry? palpitable
their love? obssesive
intimacy? wholesome
matter of fact, they were infatuated with one another jeeezzz.
the whole Benedikt plot? I actually liked this storytelling in a mafia romance, violence and SA aside (I can always go without this in my books for the fmc) but the aftermath and Rio and Ivory's dad team up kinda made up for it.
wowww why do I always leave good books sit so long in my tbr shelf 😭.
PS. hottest bike scene I have ever read was in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2024
I’m honestly searching for the right words because I am obsessed with this incredible mafia romance! This book gave me everything I could possibly want and more. The plot gripped me from page one, and I felt like I was right there in New York, experiencing every single emotion along with the characters.
Rio (the MMC) and Ivory (the FMC) are the epitome of true enemies-to-lovers from rival families, and their relationship is absolutely something to behold. Dee Garcia has perfectly crafted these characters to be dynamic and complex, watching them grow and change over the years gives such depth to their story. If you’ve ever loved someone fiercely and faced the possibility of losing them, this book will hit you straight in the heart. Ivory is feisty, intelligent, and fearless. And Rio… oh my gosh. He’s going to be your next favorite morally gray boyfriend. Tall, dark, tatted, ruthless, foul-mouthed, and spicy, with a devotion to Ivory (and his family!) that won me over instantly. He will do anything to anyone who stands in his way or touches what he considers his. The spice Rio brings? GOD TIER.
The ending had me on the edge of my seat with all its twists and turns, including some intense mafia-style action I couldn’t stop reading. And the ending? Completely satisfying. My only complaint is that I can’t read this book again for the first time—it was that good! Go read this book; you’ll be as obsessed with it as I am!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (I’d honestly rank this in my infinity stars), 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rio (the MMC) and Ivory (the FMC) are the epitome of true enemies-to-lovers from rival families, and their relationship is absolutely something to behold. Dee Garcia has perfectly crafted these characters to be dynamic and complex, watching them grow and change over the years gives such depth to their story. If you’ve ever loved someone fiercely and faced the possibility of losing them, this book will hit you straight in the heart. Ivory is feisty, intelligent, and fearless. And Rio… oh my gosh. He’s going to be your next favorite morally gray boyfriend. Tall, dark, tatted, ruthless, foul-mouthed, and spicy, with a devotion to Ivory (and his family!) that won me over instantly. He will do anything to anyone who stands in his way or touches what he considers his. The spice Rio brings? GOD TIER.
The ending had me on the edge of my seat with all its twists and turns, including some intense mafia-style action I couldn’t stop reading. And the ending? Completely satisfying. My only complaint is that I can’t read this book again for the first time—it was that good! Go read this book; you’ll be as obsessed with it as I am!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (I’d honestly rank this in my infinity stars), 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
November 14, 2024
Dark romance lovers need this book!
Raw, Bloody Power brings readers into a tempestuous world of forbidden love, fierce rivalries, and a tangled web of deception and desire. The writing is dark, evocative, and visceral, allowing readers to feel every stab of betrayal and every spark of passion that ignites between Rio and Ivory. It’s an intoxicating read that will keep you hooked till the last page.
Perfect for fans of dark romance who love complex characters and tension that bleeds from the page. Dee Garcia delivers a relentless, unforgettable romance, reminding us that sometimes the most dangerous kind of love is the one you thought you'd left behind.
Raw, Bloody Power brings readers into a tempestuous world of forbidden love, fierce rivalries, and a tangled web of deception and desire. The writing is dark, evocative, and visceral, allowing readers to feel every stab of betrayal and every spark of passion that ignites between Rio and Ivory. It’s an intoxicating read that will keep you hooked till the last page.
Perfect for fans of dark romance who love complex characters and tension that bleeds from the page. Dee Garcia delivers a relentless, unforgettable romance, reminding us that sometimes the most dangerous kind of love is the one you thought you'd left behind.
January 4, 2025
there’s a rioivory shaped hole in my heart. i love these two so bad. second chance enemies to lovers who go from guns to the head and knives to throats to the filthiest mind numbing sex and all consuming love. i absolutely devoured this. dee garcia, i love you. never stop writing!
January 20, 2025
Where to start, if you enjoy a mafia romance with added intrigue, secrets and lies, revenge, violence, forced marriage, and spice…yeah, lots of spice 🥵 etc. This is the book for you.
Our FMC is part of the Belucci family our MMC the Guerra’s, they have been rivals for years. He starts off bullying her through school, it gets worse going into high school before they end up secretly together, however as you might assume the course of true love never runs smooth. Suffice to say we are thrown into their tumultuous lives, where hurt and revenge cause more heartache. A villain is cast into the mixture but has he been a fly on the wall longer than they know 🤔
I couldn’t put this book down, it’s dual POV with past interludes and sporadically another person POV. It has everything a mafia romance needs and more, well written and concise. Read the trigger warnings though. It does had an HEA eventually 😎
Our FMC is part of the Belucci family our MMC the Guerra’s, they have been rivals for years. He starts off bullying her through school, it gets worse going into high school before they end up secretly together, however as you might assume the course of true love never runs smooth. Suffice to say we are thrown into their tumultuous lives, where hurt and revenge cause more heartache. A villain is cast into the mixture but has he been a fly on the wall longer than they know 🤔
I couldn’t put this book down, it’s dual POV with past interludes and sporadically another person POV. It has everything a mafia romance needs and more, well written and concise. Read the trigger warnings though. It does had an HEA eventually 😎
December 14, 2024
Heavy on the 4.5 stars.
Im usually a slow reader and I can't believe how quickly I DEVOURED this book. I am literally in love with Rio... like he's hitting the big league of Zade, Xaden and Malachi for me.
The writing style started off a little bit clunky with the whole breaking the 4th wall situation that felt weird to me but to be honest I don't even care. this is a Desert Island Keeper... I will be buying the physical copy.
Now all I'm thinking is... wtf do I read next? like I feel like a need a min 😭
Im usually a slow reader and I can't believe how quickly I DEVOURED this book. I am literally in love with Rio... like he's hitting the big league of Zade, Xaden and Malachi for me.
The writing style started off a little bit clunky with the whole breaking the 4th wall situation that felt weird to me but to be honest I don't even care. this is a Desert Island Keeper... I will be buying the physical copy.
Now all I'm thinking is... wtf do I read next? like I feel like a need a min 😭
November 7, 2024
143 Rio 🥺
I don’t even like mafia romance but from now on written by Dee I do
I don’t even like mafia romance but from now on written by Dee I do
November 14, 2024
OMG!! This story was INCREDIBLE!!! The way that it RIPPED every freaking emotion out of me and had me in an utter chokehold was insane. I literally felt it all. I laughed, giggled, screamed, yelled and fell hopelessly in love with these fierce and strong characters. This was a true enemies-to-lovers story (with some intense bullying) and sort of like a modern dark Romeo and Juliet story.
Ivory is one hell of a tough cookie. She’s sassy, feisty, strong and incredibly witty. Growing up being bullied by Rio has taught her how to be fearless and protective of herself. The things she had to put up with would have broken most young women, but it only made Ivory more badass in the end. As an adult, she is better equipped to go toe to toe with angry Rio.
Rio is the epitome of a morally gray man. He’s angry, dangerous, powerful, sexy and with one hell of a dirty filthy mouth on him. I just wanted to jump into the book and climb him like a tree! He made me so deliciously hot and horny, and I could not get enough of his dark temper either. The way that he will do anything to punish Ivory while trying to possess her was HOT but also made me yell WTF a few times too. He goes to all kinds of twisted lengths just to prove she’s his!
The back-and-forth banter and the push and pull for power between Ivory and Rio was something I was unprepared for. These two are so fierce in their convictions, passionate in their fight for truth and love, and will do anything and everything to protect their families. Even if it meant destroying something so undeniably perfect, like love.
“Tell me what’s standing in the way of me having you so I can do us both a favor and get rid of the problem.”
The spice – OMG – the spice was deliciously insane, kinky, titillating and SO FREAKING HOT that my body was ready to combust just from the way these two danced around each other. And then when they do give into the incredible desire wafting off both of them OMG – I DIED from the heat. Be prepared with a fully charged buzzy friend while reading how delicious Ivory and Rio are together.
Brilliantly written with amazing characters that give us their raw and unfiltered emotions, which actually broke my heart a time or two while devouring their story. And with a plot that was dark, twisted, suspenseful, violent, and with such palpable emotional turmoil and anger that it just pours off the pages!
I devoured every single moment! Definitely one of the best mafia stories I have read this year!
Ivory is one hell of a tough cookie. She’s sassy, feisty, strong and incredibly witty. Growing up being bullied by Rio has taught her how to be fearless and protective of herself. The things she had to put up with would have broken most young women, but it only made Ivory more badass in the end. As an adult, she is better equipped to go toe to toe with angry Rio.
Rio is the epitome of a morally gray man. He’s angry, dangerous, powerful, sexy and with one hell of a dirty filthy mouth on him. I just wanted to jump into the book and climb him like a tree! He made me so deliciously hot and horny, and I could not get enough of his dark temper either. The way that he will do anything to punish Ivory while trying to possess her was HOT but also made me yell WTF a few times too. He goes to all kinds of twisted lengths just to prove she’s his!
The back-and-forth banter and the push and pull for power between Ivory and Rio was something I was unprepared for. These two are so fierce in their convictions, passionate in their fight for truth and love, and will do anything and everything to protect their families. Even if it meant destroying something so undeniably perfect, like love.
“Tell me what’s standing in the way of me having you so I can do us both a favor and get rid of the problem.”
The spice – OMG – the spice was deliciously insane, kinky, titillating and SO FREAKING HOT that my body was ready to combust just from the way these two danced around each other. And then when they do give into the incredible desire wafting off both of them OMG – I DIED from the heat. Be prepared with a fully charged buzzy friend while reading how delicious Ivory and Rio are together.
Brilliantly written with amazing characters that give us their raw and unfiltered emotions, which actually broke my heart a time or two while devouring their story. And with a plot that was dark, twisted, suspenseful, violent, and with such palpable emotional turmoil and anger that it just pours off the pages!
I devoured every single moment! Definitely one of the best mafia stories I have read this year!
November 9, 2024
Raw Bloody Power
Dee Garcia
✨ Enemies to Lovers
✨ Second Chance
✨ Touch her and die
✨ Enemies with benefits
✨ Morally Grey MMC
✨ Rival Families
✨ He falls first
“𝒯𝑒𝓁𝓁 𝓂𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉’𝓈 𝓈𝓉𝒶𝓃𝒹𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝒶𝓎 𝑜𝒻 𝓂𝑒 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓈𝑜 𝐼 𝒸𝒶𝓃 𝒹𝑜 𝓊𝓈 𝒷𝑜𝓉𝒽 𝒶 𝒻𝒶𝓋𝑜𝓇 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝑔𝑒𝓉 𝓇𝒾𝒹 𝑜𝒻 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓅𝓇𝑜𝒷𝓁𝑒𝓂.”
LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS BOOK. I waited so long to read this, from the first trope graphic I saw I said “yup, I need that in my life.” I was not wrong. Dee absolutely smashed it out of the park with this. I was consumed by this book from the dedication pages. Rio and Ivory where do I even start…
Rio and Ivory are the ultimate portrayal of true enemies-to-lovers, torn between rival families, and their tumultuous relationship is nothing short of mesmerizing. Dee has woven these characters into a symphony of raw intensity and depth, with each page capturing their evolution like a dance that is equal parts breathtaking and heartbreaking. For anyone who has ever loved with a ferocity that makes the thought of loss unbearable, this story will strike a chord straight to your soul.
Ivory is the embodiment of wit, courage, and unapologetic fire, while Rio—prepare yourself—is destined to be your next irresistible, morally grey obsession. Picture this: tall, dark, inked from neck to knuckles, exuding danger, and armed with a razor-sharp tongue that could cut glass. His relentless dedication to Ivory and his family had me spellbound from the start. And the way he handles those who dare threaten his world? Unflinchingly savage. The heat Rio brings? Simply god-tier, leaving sparks that linger long after the final page.
Thank you Dee for writing such an amazing masterpiece. It was absolute perfection.
⚠️🚨 Content Warnings: For your mental health please review them and ensure that you will not be affected. Your mental health matters, while I love Rio I don’t want him triggering you🚨⚠️
Dee Garcia
✨ Enemies to Lovers
✨ Second Chance
✨ Touch her and die
✨ Enemies with benefits
✨ Morally Grey MMC
✨ Rival Families
✨ He falls first
“𝒯𝑒𝓁𝓁 𝓂𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉’𝓈 𝓈𝓉𝒶𝓃𝒹𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝒶𝓎 𝑜𝒻 𝓂𝑒 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓈𝑜 𝐼 𝒸𝒶𝓃 𝒹𝑜 𝓊𝓈 𝒷𝑜𝓉𝒽 𝒶 𝒻𝒶𝓋𝑜𝓇 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝑔𝑒𝓉 𝓇𝒾𝒹 𝑜𝒻 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓅𝓇𝑜𝒷𝓁𝑒𝓂.”
LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS BOOK. I waited so long to read this, from the first trope graphic I saw I said “yup, I need that in my life.” I was not wrong. Dee absolutely smashed it out of the park with this. I was consumed by this book from the dedication pages. Rio and Ivory where do I even start…
Rio and Ivory are the ultimate portrayal of true enemies-to-lovers, torn between rival families, and their tumultuous relationship is nothing short of mesmerizing. Dee has woven these characters into a symphony of raw intensity and depth, with each page capturing their evolution like a dance that is equal parts breathtaking and heartbreaking. For anyone who has ever loved with a ferocity that makes the thought of loss unbearable, this story will strike a chord straight to your soul.
Ivory is the embodiment of wit, courage, and unapologetic fire, while Rio—prepare yourself—is destined to be your next irresistible, morally grey obsession. Picture this: tall, dark, inked from neck to knuckles, exuding danger, and armed with a razor-sharp tongue that could cut glass. His relentless dedication to Ivory and his family had me spellbound from the start. And the way he handles those who dare threaten his world? Unflinchingly savage. The heat Rio brings? Simply god-tier, leaving sparks that linger long after the final page.
Thank you Dee for writing such an amazing masterpiece. It was absolute perfection.
⚠️🚨 Content Warnings: For your mental health please review them and ensure that you will not be affected. Your mental health matters, while I love Rio I don’t want him triggering you🚨⚠️
November 6, 2024
I had the honour of reading this book as an arc read and loved every second of it
This book follows Rio and Ivory. They are from opposing mafia families, and have been brought up to hate each other, but found themselves falling in love when they were younger. Unfortunately it wasn’t to last and after an incident that Ivory found herself in that Rio was too incensed to listen to reason about, he told her that she was dead to him and if he ever saw her again he would make her life miserable
We fast forward several years, and Ivory is back. Rio decides to take matters into his own hands, living up to his threat and burning her bakery to the ground, before infiltrating her father’s shipment, causing Ivory a lot of headaches. Fortunately Ivory doesn’t take it lying down and fights back
Things continue to escalate when Rio persuades Ivory to distract Benedikt (the head of another mafia family, who has infiltrated one of Rio’s shipments) one evening with the promise of giving her the shipment back, and she does, but she takes it a step further, going in a date with him and infuriating Rio, who warns her off him. She doesn’t listen and life takes a dark turn
When the war starts to effect other family members, Rio decides to do the one thing he swore he wouldn’t and teach Ivory a lesson, which leads to some very hot spice and the start of a new chapter in both of their lives, but it comes with even more danger and both of them almost losing their lives
I loved this book from page one. It was an incredible read 🖤🖤🖤
This book follows Rio and Ivory. They are from opposing mafia families, and have been brought up to hate each other, but found themselves falling in love when they were younger. Unfortunately it wasn’t to last and after an incident that Ivory found herself in that Rio was too incensed to listen to reason about, he told her that she was dead to him and if he ever saw her again he would make her life miserable
We fast forward several years, and Ivory is back. Rio decides to take matters into his own hands, living up to his threat and burning her bakery to the ground, before infiltrating her father’s shipment, causing Ivory a lot of headaches. Fortunately Ivory doesn’t take it lying down and fights back
Things continue to escalate when Rio persuades Ivory to distract Benedikt (the head of another mafia family, who has infiltrated one of Rio’s shipments) one evening with the promise of giving her the shipment back, and she does, but she takes it a step further, going in a date with him and infuriating Rio, who warns her off him. She doesn’t listen and life takes a dark turn
When the war starts to effect other family members, Rio decides to do the one thing he swore he wouldn’t and teach Ivory a lesson, which leads to some very hot spice and the start of a new chapter in both of their lives, but it comes with even more danger and both of them almost losing their lives
I loved this book from page one. It was an incredible read 🖤🖤🖤
November 9, 2024
Copy received from the author. Voluntarily reviewing and all opinions are objective and my own.
Wow. Just. Wow. This book consumed me. This was everything that’s right in the romance genre right now. It’s a mafia romance but different from typical mafia romances, but in a good way. Like it felt super realistic, that the characters worked normal jobs and the crime we got wasn’t over the top.
This is a Romeo and Juliet inspired second-chance romance that truly just worked on every level. We get through a series of flashbacks that Rio and Ivory were childhood friends, turned high school relationship, who planned on running away from their feuding families to be together. Something happens to break them up, and skip a decade later, the two hate one another, existing on different sides of their family’s ongoing feud while dealing with their own personal one.
The romance is beautifully built up through a series of crazy interactions. The banter between the characters is everything and the spice is top-notch. The way these two reconnected was pure perfection that had me cheering for them every step of the way.
This is just so well written. The dialogue was modern and natural to common speech patterns, so it felt very casual to read. Realistic. Like the characters were truly real. Everything I’ve read by this author has been a hit for me, so this isn’t all that surprising either.
Favourite Quote :
All they need to know is Ivory Belucci is off-limits for everyone. Everyone except me.
Wow. Just. Wow. This book consumed me. This was everything that’s right in the romance genre right now. It’s a mafia romance but different from typical mafia romances, but in a good way. Like it felt super realistic, that the characters worked normal jobs and the crime we got wasn’t over the top.
This is a Romeo and Juliet inspired second-chance romance that truly just worked on every level. We get through a series of flashbacks that Rio and Ivory were childhood friends, turned high school relationship, who planned on running away from their feuding families to be together. Something happens to break them up, and skip a decade later, the two hate one another, existing on different sides of their family’s ongoing feud while dealing with their own personal one.
The romance is beautifully built up through a series of crazy interactions. The banter between the characters is everything and the spice is top-notch. The way these two reconnected was pure perfection that had me cheering for them every step of the way.
This is just so well written. The dialogue was modern and natural to common speech patterns, so it felt very casual to read. Realistic. Like the characters were truly real. Everything I’ve read by this author has been a hit for me, so this isn’t all that surprising either.
Favourite Quote :
All they need to know is Ivory Belucci is off-limits for everyone. Everyone except me.
November 14, 2024
Happy Release Day!
ARC REVIEW
5🩸
Raw Bloody Power totally sucked me in! This book isn’t just any mafia romance—it’s intense, gritty, and packed with the raw, messy emotions that make Rio and Ivory’s enemies-to-lovers story so addictive. Both MCs are fiercely independent and strong-willed, yet their chemistry is off the charts, and their history makes every interaction between them feel supercharged. Ivory’s fire and Rio’s ruthless, morally gray side make them the perfect match, even if it’s the kind that might burn the whole world down in the process.
I loved how Dee crafted them with so much depth and backstory. The flashbacks of them as childhood friends and their fiery present-day interactions gave me such a sense of who they are and why they’re so drawn to each other, even through all the revenge, betrayal, and pain. And don’t get me started on Rio! He’s everything you want in a dark romance lead—intense, dangerously loyal, and devoted to his family, but with a vulnerable side you don’t see coming. His loyalty to Ivory despite the feud, and his brutal approach to keeping her safe, were exactly the kind of god-tier spice that keeps you hooked.
The action scenes are wild, and Dee doesn’t skimp on the mafia intensity, but it’s done in a way that feels grounded and realistic. I found myself reading late into the night, desperate to know what happens to their ending. RBP is packed with all the tension, drama, and spice every book lover could ask for so it’s definitely a must read!
ARC REVIEW
5🩸
Raw Bloody Power totally sucked me in! This book isn’t just any mafia romance—it’s intense, gritty, and packed with the raw, messy emotions that make Rio and Ivory’s enemies-to-lovers story so addictive. Both MCs are fiercely independent and strong-willed, yet their chemistry is off the charts, and their history makes every interaction between them feel supercharged. Ivory’s fire and Rio’s ruthless, morally gray side make them the perfect match, even if it’s the kind that might burn the whole world down in the process.
I loved how Dee crafted them with so much depth and backstory. The flashbacks of them as childhood friends and their fiery present-day interactions gave me such a sense of who they are and why they’re so drawn to each other, even through all the revenge, betrayal, and pain. And don’t get me started on Rio! He’s everything you want in a dark romance lead—intense, dangerously loyal, and devoted to his family, but with a vulnerable side you don’t see coming. His loyalty to Ivory despite the feud, and his brutal approach to keeping her safe, were exactly the kind of god-tier spice that keeps you hooked.
The action scenes are wild, and Dee doesn’t skimp on the mafia intensity, but it’s done in a way that feels grounded and realistic. I found myself reading late into the night, desperate to know what happens to their ending. RBP is packed with all the tension, drama, and spice every book lover could ask for so it’s definitely a must read!
November 14, 2024
Happy Release Day!
ARC REVIEW
5🩸
Raw Bloody Power totally sucked me in! This book isn’t just any mafia romance—it’s intense, gritty, and packed with the raw, messy emotions that make Rio and Ivory’s enemies-to-lovers story so addictive. Both MCs are fiercely independent and strong-willed, yet their chemistry is off the charts, and their history makes every interaction between them feel supercharged. Ivory’s fire and Rio’s ruthless, morally gray side make them the perfect match, even if it’s the kind that might burn the whole world down in the process.
I loved how Dee crafted them with so much depth and backstory. The flashbacks of them as childhood friends and their fiery present-day interactions gave me such a sense of who they are and why they’re so drawn to each other, even through all the revenge, betrayal, and pain. And don’t get me started on Rio! He’s everything you want in a dark romance lead—intense, dangerously loyal, and devoted to his family, but with a vulnerable side you don’t see coming. His loyalty to Ivory despite the feud, and his brutal approach to keeping her safe, were exactly the kind of god-tier spice that keeps you hooked.
The action scenes are wild, and Dee doesn’t skimp on the mafia intensity, but it’s done in a way that feels grounded and realistic. I found myself reading late into the night, desperate to know what happens to their ending. RBP is packed with all the tension, drama, and spice every book lover could ask for so it’s definitely a must read!
ARC REVIEW
5🩸
Raw Bloody Power totally sucked me in! This book isn’t just any mafia romance—it’s intense, gritty, and packed with the raw, messy emotions that make Rio and Ivory’s enemies-to-lovers story so addictive. Both MCs are fiercely independent and strong-willed, yet their chemistry is off the charts, and their history makes every interaction between them feel supercharged. Ivory’s fire and Rio’s ruthless, morally gray side make them the perfect match, even if it’s the kind that might burn the whole world down in the process.
I loved how Dee crafted them with so much depth and backstory. The flashbacks of them as childhood friends and their fiery present-day interactions gave me such a sense of who they are and why they’re so drawn to each other, even through all the revenge, betrayal, and pain. And don’t get me started on Rio! He’s everything you want in a dark romance lead—intense, dangerously loyal, and devoted to his family, but with a vulnerable side you don’t see coming. His loyalty to Ivory despite the feud, and his brutal approach to keeping her safe, were exactly the kind of god-tier spice that keeps you hooked.
The action scenes are wild, and Dee doesn’t skimp on the mafia intensity, but it’s done in a way that feels grounded and realistic. I found myself reading late into the night, desperate to know what happens to their ending. RBP is packed with all the tension, drama, and spice every book lover could ask for so it’s definitely a must read!
![Profile Image for ✮⋆˙ Cleo [ depressingly studying :( ].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1764293246i%2F188881717._UX200_CR0%2C33%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
October 20, 2025
Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 4/5 🌶
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, forbidden, rival mafia families, OTT possessive mmc, enemies with benefits.
what a fucking ride this book was..
when i tell u how obsessed i was starting this book off, istg im not even joking. this book had everything AND MORE that i was looking for. I had never read a soft-ish mafia book ( only in the mafia aspect, NOTHING ELSE ) before so this was for sure a surprise. I just loved this book soo fucking much i can't even put into words.
Their texts, their banters and everything was just so spot on, I fell in love from the first page. This is exactly how you do an enemies-to-lovers.The love triangle between Bendikt, Ivory and Rio reminded me of the IT Ends With Us One, and.. it honestly did not disappoint.
Ivory is so sassy and she kept Rio on his toes which I, of course, ate up. The part i loved about her was that she was so comfortable and confident with herself THROUGHOUT the book, which is really rare to see in many books, much less ones with a mafia plot.
Needless to say, the spice was TOP TIER. I was foaming at the mouth for the spicy scenes and they're lowkey probably gonna stay imprinted in my head for the next few weeks.
TRIGGER WARNING:
There are some common triggers for sure which you should know about in the beginning of the book, but ( im not trying to spoil it ) there is some unconsentual stuff happening ( not between the mcs ) at the end of the book, so please take it slow and read the triggers THOROUGHLY beforehand.
XOXO <3
Spice: 4/5 🌶
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, forbidden, rival mafia families, OTT possessive mmc, enemies with benefits.
what a fucking ride this book was..
when i tell u how obsessed i was starting this book off, istg im not even joking. this book had everything AND MORE that i was looking for. I had never read a soft-ish mafia book ( only in the mafia aspect, NOTHING ELSE ) before so this was for sure a surprise. I just loved this book soo fucking much i can't even put into words.
Their texts, their banters and everything was just so spot on, I fell in love from the first page. This is exactly how you do an enemies-to-lovers.The love triangle between Bendikt, Ivory and Rio reminded me of the IT Ends With Us One, and.. it honestly did not disappoint.
Ivory is so sassy and she kept Rio on his toes which I, of course, ate up. The part i loved about her was that she was so comfortable and confident with herself THROUGHOUT the book, which is really rare to see in many books, much less ones with a mafia plot.
Needless to say, the spice was TOP TIER. I was foaming at the mouth for the spicy scenes and they're lowkey probably gonna stay imprinted in my head for the next few weeks.
TRIGGER WARNING:
There are some common triggers for sure which you should know about in the beginning of the book, but ( im not trying to spoil it ) there is some unconsentual stuff happening ( not between the mcs ) at the end of the book, so please take it slow and read the triggers THOROUGHLY beforehand.
XOXO <3
November 14, 2024
Wow...holy book hangover!!! I completely DEVOURED this book! Dee Garcia is a new to me author and boy was I pleasantly surprised! FINALLY a book where you get all the mafia details and ins/outs. There are so many mafia books out there where they don’t focus much on the details but this book lays everything down on the table. Rio is as unhinged as it gets ladies and gents! While I have read a ton of “enemies to lovers” and with it being one of my fav tropes, this book....you guys...I have never read a more “enemy” vibe in any other book I don’t think. Which, when the “lovers” part comes into play, makes it that much better.
Rio and Ivory fell in love when they were younger. They knew their families were rivals so they planned on running away together. Up until Rio walks in on Ivory in bed with his best friend. Obviously some hurtful things were said and Rio completely cut Ivory off, she moves away, they’re done. Fast forward to 11 years later, Ivory decides to open a bakery back in her hometown. The same city that Rio told her to stay away from otherwise there would be consequences to pay.
The spice in this book *once the spice hits*...is FILTHY, RAW, and UNHINGED. I.ATE.IT.UP!!!! Not only is Rio nothing less than a delicious Dom, Ivory can definitely hold her own and bring Rio to his knees *quite literally*. This is a MUST read and you need to immediately download on Nov. 14th.
Rio and Ivory fell in love when they were younger. They knew their families were rivals so they planned on running away together. Up until Rio walks in on Ivory in bed with his best friend. Obviously some hurtful things were said and Rio completely cut Ivory off, she moves away, they’re done. Fast forward to 11 years later, Ivory decides to open a bakery back in her hometown. The same city that Rio told her to stay away from otherwise there would be consequences to pay.
The spice in this book *once the spice hits*...is FILTHY, RAW, and UNHINGED. I.ATE.IT.UP!!!! Not only is Rio nothing less than a delicious Dom, Ivory can definitely hold her own and bring Rio to his knees *quite literally*. This is a MUST read and you need to immediately download on Nov. 14th.
November 19, 2024
I fell in love with this book as a Beta reader and I don't think my words will do it justice. I love a good mafia trope along with enemies to lovers, and I am obsessed!!
Rio was raised to dislike Ivory's family since birth thus becoming her personal bully. Until feelings changed, and so deep in love, they planned on running away together. But plans take a turn when Rio walks in on Ivory in bed with his best friend. Thinking he was played for a fool, Rio completely cuts Ivory out of his life. Now 11 years later, Ivory decides to move back home and open a bakery. The same city Rio told her to stay away from or there would be consequences. Little did he know, she doesn't listen very well.
This book gives enemies to lovers a whole new meaning. Mafia with a Romeo and Juliet vibe, yes please!! And the spice between these two is oh so delicious, your gonna want to bake a cake in Crocs. *if you know, you know* The chemistry and passion they still hold for each other most definitely can be felt as they can't seem to keep their hands off one another. *wink, wink* Rio is very much the alpha-hole when it comes to Ivory, but she can hold her own and bring this sexy man to his knees. And please lets not forget he has brothers. From one family business to another, they will have you intrigued and wanting more. I HIGHLY recommend this book!!
Rio was raised to dislike Ivory's family since birth thus becoming her personal bully. Until feelings changed, and so deep in love, they planned on running away together. But plans take a turn when Rio walks in on Ivory in bed with his best friend. Thinking he was played for a fool, Rio completely cuts Ivory out of his life. Now 11 years later, Ivory decides to move back home and open a bakery. The same city Rio told her to stay away from or there would be consequences. Little did he know, she doesn't listen very well.
This book gives enemies to lovers a whole new meaning. Mafia with a Romeo and Juliet vibe, yes please!! And the spice between these two is oh so delicious, your gonna want to bake a cake in Crocs. *if you know, you know* The chemistry and passion they still hold for each other most definitely can be felt as they can't seem to keep their hands off one another. *wink, wink* Rio is very much the alpha-hole when it comes to Ivory, but she can hold her own and bring this sexy man to his knees. And please lets not forget he has brothers. From one family business to another, they will have you intrigued and wanting more. I HIGHLY recommend this book!!
November 24, 2024
Ivory (F) & Rio (M) are cuties that just want to love each other (LET THEM LIVEEEEEE!) Rio though, he’s a bully that doesn’t know how to deal with his Ivory related emotions. Think about that boy on the playground that terrorizes you because he likes you and doesn’t know how to handle it. That’s Rio 😂
They’re from rival mafia families, with hate going back generations. Rio starts off with bullying her, but that changes in high school. They start a secret love affair, and are all set to say “the hell” with family rivalries and get their HEA. Unfortunately, something happens and they break up instead. I would best describe it as bully ➡️ lovers ➡️ enemies (with a splash of bully) ➡️ lovers. There’s an 11 yr gap from the hs break up and their reconciliation. What I liked about it, is that even though they’re already broken up in the opening chapter, we already know they loved with each other. So you get to deal with the pent up emotions of love and hate. You don’t feel the original fall, but you do get to experience the emotional turmoil and their breaking points that leads to reconciliation 🥳
🌶️SPICE: 🥹 I’d say like a 4🌶️
📝PLOT: It felt like a true enemies to lovers & star crossed lovers. Their families being rivals played a huge role in their relationship. Also, the crap that Rio did? WILD. How are you going to ban her from going to NY period? Lmao. I’d personally be dragging his 🍑 down the street by his ear, but hey…to each their own lol
👫MCs: Rio was a jacka$$ sometimes, and Ivory could’ve been more b!tchier to Rio (for my liking). But, I still loved them. They’re ridiculous, petty, funny, ride or die, h0rny little rabbits, and adorable once they stop fighting their feelings. Bonus points that Rio was the first to jump in (both times) 🖤
✍️AUTHOR’S WRITING: I love Dee’s writing style. It’s so easy to follow and I’m always laughing at the banter and MC’s inner monologues.
🏍️Second Chance
🏍️Enemies to Lovers
🏍️Rival Mafia Families
🏍️Past & Present
🏍️3-Yr Age Gap
🏍️Dual POV
🏍️HEA
🚨Read the content warning
They’re from rival mafia families, with hate going back generations. Rio starts off with bullying her, but that changes in high school. They start a secret love affair, and are all set to say “the hell” with family rivalries and get their HEA. Unfortunately, something happens and they break up instead. I would best describe it as bully ➡️ lovers ➡️ enemies (with a splash of bully) ➡️ lovers. There’s an 11 yr gap from the hs break up and their reconciliation. What I liked about it, is that even though they’re already broken up in the opening chapter, we already know they loved with each other. So you get to deal with the pent up emotions of love and hate. You don’t feel the original fall, but you do get to experience the emotional turmoil and their breaking points that leads to reconciliation 🥳
🌶️SPICE: 🥹 I’d say like a 4🌶️
📝PLOT: It felt like a true enemies to lovers & star crossed lovers. Their families being rivals played a huge role in their relationship. Also, the crap that Rio did? WILD. How are you going to ban her from going to NY period? Lmao. I’d personally be dragging his 🍑 down the street by his ear, but hey…to each their own lol
👫MCs: Rio was a jacka$$ sometimes, and Ivory could’ve been more b!tchier to Rio (for my liking). But, I still loved them. They’re ridiculous, petty, funny, ride or die, h0rny little rabbits, and adorable once they stop fighting their feelings. Bonus points that Rio was the first to jump in (both times) 🖤
✍️AUTHOR’S WRITING: I love Dee’s writing style. It’s so easy to follow and I’m always laughing at the banter and MC’s inner monologues.
🏍️Second Chance
🏍️Enemies to Lovers
🏍️Rival Mafia Families
🏍️Past & Present
🏍️3-Yr Age Gap
🏍️Dual POV
🏍️HEA
🚨Read the content warning
November 3, 2024
Rio and Ivory's tale is like a modern-day Romeo and Juliet, complete with a family feud that could rival any soap opera! Growing up with Rio was no picnic for Ivory; he was the king of bullies! But when love and hate dance a tango, it leads to a dramatic showdown that seals their fate.
Fast forward eleven years, and Ivory struts back into New York, freshly minted from Harvard and ready to launch her bakery, Sweet Cheeks—a delicious homage to her grandma and a big fat “Not today, Rio!” Her sweet victory takes a fiery twist, though, when disaster strikes and her bakery goes up in smoke.
Hats off to Dee for weaving this rollercoaster of surprises and revelations—she's knocked it out of the park with this story!
Things to know
Bullying • Waterboarding • Non-consensual heavy petting • Masked man • Brief knife play • Dub con • You’ll never look at Coca Cola the same • Sexual degradation • Sexual assault • Sexual violence • Forced weapon insertion • Forced poisoning • Tight spaces • Drowning • Second chance • Italian mob • Rivial family • Virgin FMC • He falls first • OM drama • Enemies with benefits • touch her and die • no 3rd act break up
Fast forward eleven years, and Ivory struts back into New York, freshly minted from Harvard and ready to launch her bakery, Sweet Cheeks—a delicious homage to her grandma and a big fat “Not today, Rio!” Her sweet victory takes a fiery twist, though, when disaster strikes and her bakery goes up in smoke.
Hats off to Dee for weaving this rollercoaster of surprises and revelations—she's knocked it out of the park with this story!
Things to know
Bullying • Waterboarding • Non-consensual heavy petting • Masked man • Brief knife play • Dub con • You’ll never look at Coca Cola the same • Sexual degradation • Sexual assault • Sexual violence • Forced weapon insertion • Forced poisoning • Tight spaces • Drowning • Second chance • Italian mob • Rivial family • Virgin FMC • He falls first • OM drama • Enemies with benefits • touch her and die • no 3rd act break up
November 14, 2024
This one had me in a chokehold. I loved everything Ivory, and the words that came out of her mouth were things I could feel coming out of mine in response to the events happening in the book. I think she might be my spirit animal. She’s this spitfire of a bakery owner with the coolest pups, and she doesn’t back down from a challenge. Rio is a rival and part of another mafia family, but we also find out that there’s history between the two. The history had me in my feelings NGL. So while Rio has so many attractive qualities that could draw someone to him like bees to honey, he’s also a red flag. BUT there’s always that guy you just can’t quit and you have to weigh whether the red flags are worth the drama. Now that Ivory is back and Rio is making good on his threat to get rid of her, they’re ready to engage in their own personal vendetta war—constantly trying to outmaneuver each other regardless of collateral damage. Rio draws Benedikt into their battle, not realizing how far Ivory would go to engage him in their play nor how badly it would backfire, bringing destruction to all of them. Now they both have to figure out where their loyalty lies once and for all to move forward.
November 15, 2024
4.5 stars
I have been a fan of this author since her very first book. When she took a time out because of her burnout, I was bummed. For a while there, I was saddened by the fact that it was looking like she might not be coming back from this break. So, color me surprised when I heard about this book.
From the very first paragraph, I was hooked. This author has a way of crafting a sentence that packs a wallop. Even though this has a Romeo and Juliet-type theme to it, it was uniquely her own. She created multifaceted characters. You could see and feel the connection in an immersive story. Were there a couple areas that I wished had been fleshed out? Yes. However, that wasn't enough for me to not still enjoy the story. Was this her best book or favorite of mine? Again, No. However, knowing what a big accomplishment and miracle it was that this book was even written made me appreciate it in ways that made it even more special.
Huge congratulations to this author. I hope it gives her the boost of confidence she needs and energizes her battery to prevent burnout for a very long time.
I have been a fan of this author since her very first book. When she took a time out because of her burnout, I was bummed. For a while there, I was saddened by the fact that it was looking like she might not be coming back from this break. So, color me surprised when I heard about this book.
From the very first paragraph, I was hooked. This author has a way of crafting a sentence that packs a wallop. Even though this has a Romeo and Juliet-type theme to it, it was uniquely her own. She created multifaceted characters. You could see and feel the connection in an immersive story. Were there a couple areas that I wished had been fleshed out? Yes. However, that wasn't enough for me to not still enjoy the story. Was this her best book or favorite of mine? Again, No. However, knowing what a big accomplishment and miracle it was that this book was even written made me appreciate it in ways that made it even more special.
Huge congratulations to this author. I hope it gives her the boost of confidence she needs and energizes her battery to prevent burnout for a very long time.
November 15, 2024
Dee Garcia is back and better than ever with "Raw Bloody Power." If you love enemies-to-lovers/mafia romances with a sinfully sexy morally grey character, a feisty heroine, and Romeo and Juliet vibes, then you need to read this book! It is packed with danger, suspense, spice, family drama, and revenge.
Their families are rivals, but Rio and Ivory fell for each other in secret. Rio thought Ivory abandoned him when she left. He hates her. Now, she's back, and he's determined to make her life hell and make her pay for breaking his heart. Hold on to your seats, ladies! These two take revenge to another level. Despite their hatred for each other, the sexual tension burns bright. Is it true what they say... There's a fine line between love and hate.
The plot is gripping and intense. I was entertained from beginning to end. I was on the edge of my seat with the wild twists and turns, wondering what would happen next. The characters are complex but also amazing. They went through a lot and grew a lot from the beginning of the story. I can't get enough of them! I am excited to see what this author has in store for us next!!!
Their families are rivals, but Rio and Ivory fell for each other in secret. Rio thought Ivory abandoned him when she left. He hates her. Now, she's back, and he's determined to make her life hell and make her pay for breaking his heart. Hold on to your seats, ladies! These two take revenge to another level. Despite their hatred for each other, the sexual tension burns bright. Is it true what they say... There's a fine line between love and hate.
The plot is gripping and intense. I was entertained from beginning to end. I was on the edge of my seat with the wild twists and turns, wondering what would happen next. The characters are complex but also amazing. They went through a lot and grew a lot from the beginning of the story. I can't get enough of them! I am excited to see what this author has in store for us next!!!
November 19, 2024
★★★★☆
Well, well, well, Dee Garcia has done it again. Dee has made me fall in love with another couple written by them. Rio and Ivory were so amazing! Their love and banter was absolutely everything. Getting to see their relationship rebloom into love... again after so mang years was phenomenal.
I will warn you Rio is 100% THAT MAN! He's possessive (though past him was a bully to a whole other level) and completely head over heels in love with Ivory. He protects her in his presence and out of it. Ivory is the one that was hesistant about his advances towards her and how easily he pulled her back into his web. She can’t deny that her feelings for him rekindled.
⭑⭑⭑ 𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒 (to be edited)⭑⭑⭑
- italian mob in NYC, enemies to lovers, curvy women rep, touch her & yk, rival families, second chance romance, he falls first, enemies with benefits, morally grey mmc, romeo & juliet vibes, no 3rd act break up, impact play
November 15, 2024
Am I the only one who heard Romeo and Juliet by Sylk-E. Fyne playing in the background for most of the book? It must've been just me then.
Dee Garcia has done it again. This is how you come back from a hiatus!!! Raw Bloody Power had every single element that you could want from a twist on R&J. Rio is this fine ssa specimen of a man. This man right here had me twisted in kinds of positions. I love me some Rio, tall, dark and handsome. Tatted and he's such an ssahole that duhhh, I see red flags left and right and guess what? I, like Ivory, ran straight into that clusterfk of red flags. One thing I love about Dee's writing is that she always has a FMC badssa bishhh! No doubt about it, Ivory can hold her own. This story is most definitely a touch her and die, I know wtf you are at all times, you can't hide from me, etc.... vibes.
This is not one story that you want to sleep on. DO NOT ADD IT TO THE BACK OF YOUR TBR! Runnn and read it now. I promise the first page will have you stuck for the entire book! One Clicker for sure! XOXO
Dee Garcia has done it again. This is how you come back from a hiatus!!! Raw Bloody Power had every single element that you could want from a twist on R&J. Rio is this fine ssa specimen of a man. This man right here had me twisted in kinds of positions. I love me some Rio, tall, dark and handsome. Tatted and he's such an ssahole that duhhh, I see red flags left and right and guess what? I, like Ivory, ran straight into that clusterfk of red flags. One thing I love about Dee's writing is that she always has a FMC badssa bishhh! No doubt about it, Ivory can hold her own. This story is most definitely a touch her and die, I know wtf you are at all times, you can't hide from me, etc.... vibes.
This is not one story that you want to sleep on. DO NOT ADD IT TO THE BACK OF YOUR TBR! Runnn and read it now. I promise the first page will have you stuck for the entire book! One Clicker for sure! XOXO
November 19, 2024
⭐️4.5
🌶️4
I was lucky enough to read this book as an arc and wow! This book had me at the dedication! I could not out it down and loved every minute of it.
This is a modern, thrilling and dark take on Romeo and Juliet with a HEA
The book follows Rio and ivory on a rollercoaster of love to hate to love again! I loved getting to know both the MMC and FMC, both are stubborn and strong headed to the point you don’t think it will work but there love comes through even when they hate each other and there families rivalry said it was not to be. (True love always wins) Rio is a strong tattooed morally grey mafia man and ivory is a curvy fierce mafia princess with a spark. Just amazing!
The writing was just *chefs kiss* I loved seeing the story from the multiple points of view and well as the flash backs in to there past I could not get enough! I can’t forget the spice 🥵 so well written. I’m honestly hoping for more of their story or more books from their world.
Please do check the trigger warnings! Happy reading.
November 14, 2024
Tropes:
⚜️ Enemies to lovers
⚜️Italian mobster
⚜️ Romeo and Juliet-ish vibes
⚜️ NO thrid act breakups
⚜️ Touch her and 💀
⚜️He falls first
Spice: 4,5
I was lucky enough to get a copy as a ARC-reader, and I’m very grateful for it ❤️
This book kept dragging me in, and I didn’t want it to end. The banter is top notch, yet their story is well written, and drags and pulls you in, as if you were experiencing it yourself.
It’s a Romeo and Juliet re-telling, so they are from opposing Mafia families, and therefore hate each other with a great passion.
Fast forward, he is hellbent in seeking revenge, and he does cause her some headaches.
But I think it was a refreshing take on having real enemies to lovers, instead of instalove that tends to be a theme in mafia stories.
Mafia is my weakness, so when I saw mafia on the list, I was instantly peaked. It’s not a dark romance, but there is elements of morally grey character. But still enough for me to love it.
⚜️ Enemies to lovers
⚜️Italian mobster
⚜️ Romeo and Juliet-ish vibes
⚜️ NO thrid act breakups
⚜️ Touch her and 💀
⚜️He falls first
Spice: 4,5
I was lucky enough to get a copy as a ARC-reader, and I’m very grateful for it ❤️
This book kept dragging me in, and I didn’t want it to end. The banter is top notch, yet their story is well written, and drags and pulls you in, as if you were experiencing it yourself.
It’s a Romeo and Juliet re-telling, so they are from opposing Mafia families, and therefore hate each other with a great passion.
Fast forward, he is hellbent in seeking revenge, and he does cause her some headaches.
But I think it was a refreshing take on having real enemies to lovers, instead of instalove that tends to be a theme in mafia stories.
Mafia is my weakness, so when I saw mafia on the list, I was instantly peaked. It’s not a dark romance, but there is elements of morally grey character. But still enough for me to love it.
November 23, 2024
It’s like a movie 🍿
5/5 ⭐️ 4/5 🌶️
This was my first Dee Garcia book and it did NOT disappoint!! Honestly it felt like I was watching a movie, character development was amazing!!
This is not your typical mafia romance. There are so many other factors that play into it. There’s history, rival families and unexpected twists! Literally on the edge of your seat can’t put it down!! The way the story is written there is very visual descriptions, you are living in the scene.. that being said, check your trigger warnings.. but it was so good!!
There’s no indication that there will be additional interconnected books however, I’m really excited to see what unfolds there are several opportunities to continue a series!! I love when there is a friend group or family with ties to possibilities!!
Dee wrote this so well! This is definitely an author I would love to read again. I’m excited to see what else she releases!!
5/5 ⭐️ 4/5 🌶️
This was my first Dee Garcia book and it did NOT disappoint!! Honestly it felt like I was watching a movie, character development was amazing!!
This is not your typical mafia romance. There are so many other factors that play into it. There’s history, rival families and unexpected twists! Literally on the edge of your seat can’t put it down!! The way the story is written there is very visual descriptions, you are living in the scene.. that being said, check your trigger warnings.. but it was so good!!
There’s no indication that there will be additional interconnected books however, I’m really excited to see what unfolds there are several opportunities to continue a series!! I love when there is a friend group or family with ties to possibilities!!
Dee wrote this so well! This is definitely an author I would love to read again. I’m excited to see what else she releases!!
November 7, 2024
I’ve been trying to decide how to word this review. I am quite literally at a loss for words. This book may have just changed my outlook on mafia romance books!
A modern day retelling of Romeo and Juliet is very much the vibe of Rio and Ivory’s story. Being from rival mafia families in NY Rio makes it his job to bully Ivory throughout school. And when she dares to come back to Manhattan years later he continues to terrorize her. But these enemies can’t deny their feelings any longer. Will their love survive or will another threat end one of their lives?
This book has it all; enemies to lovers, second chance, masktok, bikertok, booktok, knife play and all the spice your little heart could desire. I laughed, cried, screamed, held my breath and kicked my feet! These apps limit me to a 5 star rating but it’s worth so much more!
*Check trigger warnings before reading.
A modern day retelling of Romeo and Juliet is very much the vibe of Rio and Ivory’s story. Being from rival mafia families in NY Rio makes it his job to bully Ivory throughout school. And when she dares to come back to Manhattan years later he continues to terrorize her. But these enemies can’t deny their feelings any longer. Will their love survive or will another threat end one of their lives?
This book has it all; enemies to lovers, second chance, masktok, bikertok, booktok, knife play and all the spice your little heart could desire. I laughed, cried, screamed, held my breath and kicked my feet! These apps limit me to a 5 star rating but it’s worth so much more!
*Check trigger warnings before reading.
November 15, 2024
For most of this book I caught myself singing the ol skool song Romeo and Juliet by Sylk-E. Fyne. If you know, you know. Going into this book, I was totally engrossed in Dee's words as usual. I never knew how much I missed reading her words. As usually Miss. Garcia pulled us into the world that Rio and Ivory lived in.
Rio being a hot AF man who is tatted and rides a bike, insert wet emoji. He is the best ahole that you will love to hate and then love again. Ivory, Ivory, Ivory. All I can say without giving anything away is... Same girl, same. You have a tough AF woman who have had a bunch of things thrown her way, but she ensures rises up on top and does it so bossbish like!
This is not a story to push to the back of your TBR. This needs to be right up front and ready to read as soon as it releases! This book will want you to message the author with a bunch of explicits, do it, she luvs that ish!
Rio being a hot AF man who is tatted and rides a bike, insert wet emoji. He is the best ahole that you will love to hate and then love again. Ivory, Ivory, Ivory. All I can say without giving anything away is... Same girl, same. You have a tough AF woman who have had a bunch of things thrown her way, but she ensures rises up on top and does it so bossbish like!
This is not a story to push to the back of your TBR. This needs to be right up front and ready to read as soon as it releases! This book will want you to message the author with a bunch of explicits, do it, she luvs that ish!
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