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Cavaliere
Wren
My entire adult life has been spent around overbearing, in your face men. The kind of men you see walking down the street and know they are the threat. I thought I had seen it all. Nothing could prepare me for running head first into the most dangerous threat of all. The one that stole my heart.
Matteo
I realized a long time ago that in order to live this life, you’re going to need to get very comfortable with always being one knock away from death answering the door. Loyalty means everything, but that doesn’t stop them from wanting your demise. I wasn’t prepared for someone to run into my world to save me. Until her. The one that fate brought me.
My entire adult life has been spent around overbearing, in your face men. The kind of men you see walking down the street and know they are the threat. I thought I had seen it all. Nothing could prepare me for running head first into the most dangerous threat of all. The one that stole my heart.
Matteo
I realized a long time ago that in order to live this life, you’re going to need to get very comfortable with always being one knock away from death answering the door. Loyalty means everything, but that doesn’t stop them from wanting your demise. I wasn’t prepared for someone to run into my world to save me. Until her. The one that fate brought me.
Unknown Binding
First published December 6, 2024
75 people are currently reading
301 people want to read
About the author
D. Vessa
7 books102 followersD. Vessa is a romantic suspense author who loves a morally gray alpha, the color black and a good Aperol Spritz. She lives on the east coast with her family. When she is not writing she spends her time running from her problems, and wondering what color to dye her hair next.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
April 19, 2025
1,5 🤔⭐️s
It wasn’t well delivered or developed.
While the mcs had great 🔥 chemistry, I found their connection lacking somehow…
Matters were not fully explored and the ending was rushed.
It wasn’t well delivered or developed.
While the mcs had great 🔥 chemistry, I found their connection lacking somehow…
Matters were not fully explored and the ending was rushed.
November 30, 2024
I recently finished Cavaliere by @authordvessa, and realized that maybe I do like mafia romances more than I thought I did!! Nothing against them, they just kinda weren't on my radar... UNTIL NOW!
This age gap, mafia romance with blood play and the ultimate touch her and die vibes, was such a delicious read. I can’t wait to read more in this family and this world!
Here are a couple things I really loved about Cavaliere:
1. This was incredibly well written. There was such a good pace and plot to the story overall, that I never felt like it dragged, nor did I feel it was lacking anything. Everything was brought together seamlessly and perfectly. I seriously craved more and more and couldn't stop reading it.
2. I loved Matteo’s fierceness and protectiveness, but also how he loved that Wren didn’t bow down at all times. That’s a true king who has found his queen! Their push and pull of him telling her what to do and her telling him he couldn’t was delicious and definitely intrigued him more than it upset him, which I really enjoyed. I also really loved how he didn’t lie to her. He was honest with her that she wouldn’t necessarily like some of the things he told her, but he promised he would never lie.
3. I love a curvy girl with bad luck but a good heart, and that was Wren to a T. Wren was such a good person at her core, despite having such a terrible upbringing. I loved that even though she cursed herself for doing it, she still helped out Matteo at the very beginning of the story, ultimately sealing her fate as his obsession.
4. Wren’s and Delaney’s relationship was GOALS! I loved how when they came together on the page you could just tell that they had that instant best friend chemistry. They really were those friends who could be apart for years and come back together like no time had passed. ALSO, Delaney would go against the mob for this bitch! She doesn’t give a fuck!!! I cannot wait for Delaney to meet her man (*ahem* it better be Scotch!), and see this foursome have some wicked date nights.
5. I loved how Cain could take a softer approach in this book as he wasn’t the MMC. I loved seeing the almost brotherly protectiveness he had over Wren, and how he was brought in often to help Matteo, solidifying their “working relationship”.
6. I loved the new guys we met in this one, namely Alessio, Gio, and Aldo.
I am super intrigued by Alessio. I like that he is a bit of a wild card in that I’m not sure what his personality is going to be just yet. He definitely has my attention haha.
Gio is…Gio. I definitely can see why he is a fan favorite and that dude is CRAZY! But his story is going to be so fun to dive into. I can’t wait to see the woman who can wrangle him. Will she be a demure, princess type? Or will she be even more batshit crazy than him? I can’t wait to find out 😉
I already think Aldo is going to be my favorite because he’s wicked smart, a healer, emotionally mature…but you know dude can throw down just like the rest of them!! I have my eye on him for sure…and my hands…and anything else he wants put on him. He can have.
7. As there were in Cain, there were so many good lines in this book. Here are some of my favorites:
--
--
--
--
--
--
Thank you to D. Vessa for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
This age gap, mafia romance with blood play and the ultimate touch her and die vibes, was such a delicious read. I can’t wait to read more in this family and this world!
Here are a couple things I really loved about Cavaliere:
1. This was incredibly well written. There was such a good pace and plot to the story overall, that I never felt like it dragged, nor did I feel it was lacking anything. Everything was brought together seamlessly and perfectly. I seriously craved more and more and couldn't stop reading it.
2. I loved Matteo’s fierceness and protectiveness, but also how he loved that Wren didn’t bow down at all times. That’s a true king who has found his queen! Their push and pull of him telling her what to do and her telling him he couldn’t was delicious and definitely intrigued him more than it upset him, which I really enjoyed. I also really loved how he didn’t lie to her. He was honest with her that she wouldn’t necessarily like some of the things he told her, but he promised he would never lie.
3. I love a curvy girl with bad luck but a good heart, and that was Wren to a T. Wren was such a good person at her core, despite having such a terrible upbringing. I loved that even though she cursed herself for doing it, she still helped out Matteo at the very beginning of the story, ultimately sealing her fate as his obsession.
4. Wren’s and Delaney’s relationship was GOALS! I loved how when they came together on the page you could just tell that they had that instant best friend chemistry. They really were those friends who could be apart for years and come back together like no time had passed. ALSO, Delaney would go against the mob for this bitch! She doesn’t give a fuck!!! I cannot wait for Delaney to meet her man (*ahem* it better be Scotch!), and see this foursome have some wicked date nights.
5. I loved how Cain could take a softer approach in this book as he wasn’t the MMC. I loved seeing the almost brotherly protectiveness he had over Wren, and how he was brought in often to help Matteo, solidifying their “working relationship”.
6. I loved the new guys we met in this one, namely Alessio, Gio, and Aldo.
I am super intrigued by Alessio. I like that he is a bit of a wild card in that I’m not sure what his personality is going to be just yet. He definitely has my attention haha.
Gio is…Gio. I definitely can see why he is a fan favorite and that dude is CRAZY! But his story is going to be so fun to dive into. I can’t wait to see the woman who can wrangle him. Will she be a demure, princess type? Or will she be even more batshit crazy than him? I can’t wait to find out 😉
I already think Aldo is going to be my favorite because he’s wicked smart, a healer, emotionally mature…but you know dude can throw down just like the rest of them!! I have my eye on him for sure…and my hands…and anything else he wants put on him. He can have.
7. As there were in Cain, there were so many good lines in this book. Here are some of my favorites:
“We are all just going through the motions until we find a semi-comfortable level of chaos.”
--
“Now, as much as it makes my cock throb, be a good girl and remove the knife from my throat.”
--
“There’s just something about a man who will kill someone for touching you that makes my kitty tingle. Matteo definitely does that to me.”
--
“Keep glaring at me like that, Tesoro, and I’ll bend you over my desk and spank that sweet ass raw.”
--
“Being an adult is like an amusement park ride-you’re so excited and full of optimism when you turn eighteen, and then you wake up one day and realize this actually isn’t fun, and you want to throw up.”
--
“Anyone that tells you a sharp wing doesn’t make them feel like a bad bitch is a liar. It’s an instant confidence booster. Am I going to fight or fuck someone? The world will never know.”
--
“You’re flowing through my veins, Tesoro. I feel like a fucking addict, wondering when I’m going to get my next fix of this pretty, tight, little cunt.”
Thank you to D. Vessa for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
December 10, 2024
Who doesn't love an obsessed mafia boss who is ruthless to the world but a total goner for his girl? Meet Matteo Adduci 😘
Cavalier is a slightly dark read but the characters are anything but. I loved Matteo and Wren. These two were characters that were sexy and hilarious! Their meet cute is definitely unique and their love story was full of laughs, surprises and some stabby good times. I loved their journey, not a dull moment in sight! Not to mention the side characters (looking at you Gio and Aldo!) and the cameo of Daddy Cain! *sigh*
If you haven't read D. Vessa, I highly recommend. She writes inspiring and strong women and protective, dominant men that will leave you wanting more! Ravenna Heights is the new IT spot people. I can't wait to go back!
Favorites Bits:
🖤 The Meet Cute 😂
🖤 Matteo's crew - Gio, Aldo, Alessio 🔥🔥🔥
🖤 Matteo getting stabby for Wren and Wren getting worked up over it!
SAFETY INFO:
Cavalier is a slightly dark read but the characters are anything but. I loved Matteo and Wren. These two were characters that were sexy and hilarious! Their meet cute is definitely unique and their love story was full of laughs, surprises and some stabby good times. I loved their journey, not a dull moment in sight! Not to mention the side characters (looking at you Gio and Aldo!) and the cameo of Daddy Cain! *sigh*
If you haven't read D. Vessa, I highly recommend. She writes inspiring and strong women and protective, dominant men that will leave you wanting more! Ravenna Heights is the new IT spot people. I can't wait to go back!
Favorites Bits:
🖤 The Meet Cute 😂
🖤 Matteo's crew - Gio, Aldo, Alessio 🔥🔥🔥
🖤 Matteo getting stabby for Wren and Wren getting worked up over it!
SAFETY INFO:
November 18, 2024
I devoured CAVALIERE and couldn’t get enough! There’s snarky, badass Wren and Matteo..the delectable Mafia kingpin with a soft spot for his lady, that both completely won my heart. And Matteo… he’s officially my new book boyfriend, and I don’t hand out that title lightly. Also, he falls first? Consider me obsessed with this trope now.
The plot was unique, and every single side character had their own shine, leaving me wanting more (::cough cough::). Oh, and the spice? Absolutely spicing.
I loved everything about CAVALIERE so much so that I’m already ready for a reread!
The plot was unique, and every single side character had their own shine, leaving me wanting more (::cough cough::). Oh, and the spice? Absolutely spicing.
I loved everything about CAVALIERE so much so that I’m already ready for a reread!
November 20, 2024
This is now my favorite book of d.vessa Matteo and Wren have me hooked the way she Is fighter,strong,and smartmouth of her.matteo so many good things about that man the way he is with his family with Wren especially he freaking melts me in every way. His ma omg I love her she just has that mom love presence, his whole family I love .I was so excited to see Cain in the book as well . Delaney is ride or die for sure
Gio cracks me up with his crazy self
The spicy scene were so good I definitely had reread those scenes a few times cause yes Wren get it
Gio cracks me up with his crazy self
The spicy scene were so good I definitely had reread those scenes a few times cause yes Wren get it
December 22, 2024
Okay I’m always up for a mafia read and this book was amazing !!! I freaking DEVOURED this book !!!!! I kept seeing it around IG and on Goodreads and I’m so glad I picked it up 😮💨 !!!
“I’m going to make sure you’re comfortable and taken care of, tesoro. You have my word.”
I LOVED BOTH MCS !!!! Wren was just a fucking hilarious and stabby fmc ! I legit loved her and found myself laughing so many times at her internal monologue 🤣 she was legit my favorite and I lived for how much she loved pissing Matteo off. The banter was honestly everything in this book 😭😂
“You’re playing with fire here, tesoro,” Matteo growls.
“Good thing I love the heat.”
MATTEO MY GOD. I pictured him as an old school mobster you’d see in movies with just the way he was described. He was just an alpha mafia boss, always getting what he wanted until an independent and funny woman runs into his life (literally) and I was LIVING for it and the way he was down bad for Wren 🙂↕️ she was so insecure about her figure being a plus sized woman and he didn’t give 2 fucks about it and it made me love him even more than I already did and the way he cherished her and swore to protect her 😭😭😭
“I don’t want to date you. I want you to be mine.”
Overall I really did enjoy this book and I honestly hope there’s more in the future about the brothers because I will definitely be reading if so 😩😩
5 ★
🌶️🌶️🌶️
*mafia
*obsessive and possessive MMC
*touch her and die
*stabby fmc
*banter
*blood and knife play
“I’m going to make sure you’re comfortable and taken care of, tesoro. You have my word.”
I LOVED BOTH MCS !!!! Wren was just a fucking hilarious and stabby fmc ! I legit loved her and found myself laughing so many times at her internal monologue 🤣 she was legit my favorite and I lived for how much she loved pissing Matteo off. The banter was honestly everything in this book 😭😂
“You’re playing with fire here, tesoro,” Matteo growls.
“Good thing I love the heat.”
MATTEO MY GOD. I pictured him as an old school mobster you’d see in movies with just the way he was described. He was just an alpha mafia boss, always getting what he wanted until an independent and funny woman runs into his life (literally) and I was LIVING for it and the way he was down bad for Wren 🙂↕️ she was so insecure about her figure being a plus sized woman and he didn’t give 2 fucks about it and it made me love him even more than I already did and the way he cherished her and swore to protect her 😭😭😭
“I don’t want to date you. I want you to be mine.”
Overall I really did enjoy this book and I honestly hope there’s more in the future about the brothers because I will definitely be reading if so 😩😩
5 ★
🌶️🌶️🌶️
*mafia
*obsessive and possessive MMC
*touch her and die
*stabby fmc
*banter
*blood and knife play
March 28, 2025
4.5/5
D. Vessa has done it again! This world has sucked me in and I absolutely cannot wait to see if there are more books in store (for DD or the Adduci family).
The tension, the possessiveness, the FMC not putting up with his possessiveness? *Chef's kiss*
Sometimes a possessive man can be overwhelming in a book, but when the FMC can give it right back and push all the buttons in defiance, the tension that comes with it is beautiful.
If you haven't jumped into this world, give Cain a read. If you read and loved Cain, give Matteo a read in Cavaliere!
D. Vessa has done it again! This world has sucked me in and I absolutely cannot wait to see if there are more books in store (for DD or the Adduci family).
The tension, the possessiveness, the FMC not putting up with his possessiveness? *Chef's kiss*
Sometimes a possessive man can be overwhelming in a book, but when the FMC can give it right back and push all the buttons in defiance, the tension that comes with it is beautiful.
If you haven't jumped into this world, give Cain a read. If you read and loved Cain, give Matteo a read in Cavaliere!
February 1, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! The writing, story, pacing and spice all worked well and kept me interested.
Wren is a perfect mixture of a vulnerable, but tough FMC and I fell in love with her. Matteo is just the perfect red flag book boyfriend and Wren is a lucky gal.
I can't wait to read more by this author and I highly recommend this one!
Wren is a perfect mixture of a vulnerable, but tough FMC and I fell in love with her. Matteo is just the perfect red flag book boyfriend and Wren is a lucky gal.
I can't wait to read more by this author and I highly recommend this one!
November 18, 2024
To say I enjoyed this book is putting it lightly. I have basically read it twice already, lol. I went back looking for something and got drawn back in and ended up rereading pretty much the entire book.
Wren is a woman that lives on the rough side of town in a cheap apartment and works as a waitress at the Dirty Devils Bar. One day while out for her daily run, Matteo, the head of the Italian Mafia, literally crashed into her life. She had no idea at the time that stopping to save his life was going to be a life-altering decision.
Wren is an independent woman with an I don’t take sh*t from anyone mentality that sometimes gets her in trouble but is something that turns Matteo on. Even though Matteo is the boss and a man that doesn’t take no for an answer, he has a soft side that he only shows to Wren. With the way these two characters spark with each other, there is no wonder why they are fire both in and out of the bedroom.
D. Vessa does a great job of bringing these characters personalities to life and making this book one that is hard to put down and one that keeps you invested in the story so much you have to continue reading until the end.
As someone who loves Mafia books, I was excited to read this book, and I was not disappointed. It has the perfect mix of action, romance, and drama.
If you enjoy Touch her and 💀, he falls first, forced proximity, and books that feature a FMC that gives the MMC a run for his money, then this is the next book that needs to be on your list to read. It releases December 6, so put it on your TBR list until then and go grab Cain, which is available now if you haven’t read it yet, so you have a background for those characters that make an appearance in this book, including Cain, the owner of the bar Wren works at.
I cannot wait to see what D. Vessa writes next. Hoping it is another Dirty Devils book or the next Adducci Mafia book, but regardless, I know I will not be disappointed.
Wren is a woman that lives on the rough side of town in a cheap apartment and works as a waitress at the Dirty Devils Bar. One day while out for her daily run, Matteo, the head of the Italian Mafia, literally crashed into her life. She had no idea at the time that stopping to save his life was going to be a life-altering decision.
Wren is an independent woman with an I don’t take sh*t from anyone mentality that sometimes gets her in trouble but is something that turns Matteo on. Even though Matteo is the boss and a man that doesn’t take no for an answer, he has a soft side that he only shows to Wren. With the way these two characters spark with each other, there is no wonder why they are fire both in and out of the bedroom.
D. Vessa does a great job of bringing these characters personalities to life and making this book one that is hard to put down and one that keeps you invested in the story so much you have to continue reading until the end.
As someone who loves Mafia books, I was excited to read this book, and I was not disappointed. It has the perfect mix of action, romance, and drama.
If you enjoy Touch her and 💀, he falls first, forced proximity, and books that feature a FMC that gives the MMC a run for his money, then this is the next book that needs to be on your list to read. It releases December 6, so put it on your TBR list until then and go grab Cain, which is available now if you haven’t read it yet, so you have a background for those characters that make an appearance in this book, including Cain, the owner of the bar Wren works at.
I cannot wait to see what D. Vessa writes next. Hoping it is another Dirty Devils book or the next Adducci Mafia book, but regardless, I know I will not be disappointed.
December 9, 2024
"Bad girls get punished
And you, my Tesoro, have been a very bad girl"
Rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ .75
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
What to expect
🖤 Mafia Dark Romance
🌶 Age Gap
🖤 He falls first
🌶 Italian Nickname
🖤 Touch her and 💀
🌶 Forced Proximity
🖤 Amazong Side Characters
🌶 Bite play
🖤 Obsessed MMC
Wren and Matteo 🖤🖤
This is my first book by D.Vessa and I'm smitten by Matteo. The book has all my favorite tropes from age gap to Forced Proximity. And Vessa did justice to each and every trope and character.
Wren our FMC, a sassy queen and independent as f**k and she is so strong. I love how she put everyone in their place if they try to mess with her and how smartly she fight back with Matteo and never bow down to his sh*t.
Matteo, my handsome and hot MMC. He is morally grey and Obsessed with the girl who saved him during an accident. The moment he saw her, he made up his mind that he will keep her no matter what. As she was his tesoro.. ahhh I love the name.
Matteo is powerful but he becomes powerless when it comes to Wren. He was aware of his protective tendencies and he knows everything is okay until Wren is safe and is with him. Both Wren and Matteo complement each other.
I loved how beautifully the characters were written. How each detail was kept in mind.
"I don't miss the way your eyes heat when I'm around. You can say you are not mine until you're blue in the face, but you body doesn't lie. It knows who you belong to."
But this book has so many layers.. it's raw, emotional, and thrilling. It shows you every aspect of dark romance laced with all the vulnerabilities.
It is a must read.. 🖤🖤
And you, my Tesoro, have been a very bad girl"
Rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ .75
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
What to expect
🖤 Mafia Dark Romance
🌶 Age Gap
🖤 He falls first
🌶 Italian Nickname
🖤 Touch her and 💀
🌶 Forced Proximity
🖤 Amazong Side Characters
🌶 Bite play
🖤 Obsessed MMC
Wren and Matteo 🖤🖤
This is my first book by D.Vessa and I'm smitten by Matteo. The book has all my favorite tropes from age gap to Forced Proximity. And Vessa did justice to each and every trope and character.
Wren our FMC, a sassy queen and independent as f**k and she is so strong. I love how she put everyone in their place if they try to mess with her and how smartly she fight back with Matteo and never bow down to his sh*t.
Matteo, my handsome and hot MMC. He is morally grey and Obsessed with the girl who saved him during an accident. The moment he saw her, he made up his mind that he will keep her no matter what. As she was his tesoro.. ahhh I love the name.
Matteo is powerful but he becomes powerless when it comes to Wren. He was aware of his protective tendencies and he knows everything is okay until Wren is safe and is with him. Both Wren and Matteo complement each other.
I loved how beautifully the characters were written. How each detail was kept in mind.
"I don't miss the way your eyes heat when I'm around. You can say you are not mine until you're blue in the face, but you body doesn't lie. It knows who you belong to."
But this book has so many layers.. it's raw, emotional, and thrilling. It shows you every aspect of dark romance laced with all the vulnerabilities.
It is a must read.. 🖤🖤
November 20, 2024
"Love in the shadow of danger." If you’re looking for a romance that pairs fierce loyalty with undeniable chemistry, Cavaliere is your next read.
✨ Why You Should Read It:
• Wren: A resilient and strong heroine who knows how to handle herself around dangerous men but still finds herself shaken by Matteo's intensity.
• Matteo: A brooding, loyal antihero who's lived his life on the edge, only to find salvation in the unlikeliest of places—Wren.
• Romance: This isn’t your typical love story. It’s raw, gritty, and laced with the kind of emotional depth that keeps you hooked.
• Danger and Suspense: The ever-present threat of betrayal and death adds a thrilling layer to their story, making the stakes impossibly high.
💔 What to Expect:
• Passionate, heart-stopping moments as Wren and Matteo navigate a love born in chaos.
• A gritty look into loyalty, betrayal, and the sacrifices made in a world where danger is just a knock away.
• A story that balances vulnerability with unrelenting strength, proving love can bloom even in the darkest corners.
📖 Overall: Cavaliere is a rollercoaster of danger, romance, and devotion. D. Vessa delivers an emotionally charged and suspenseful narrative perfect for readers who love antiheroes, strong heroines, and high-stakes love stories.
💣 Step into a world where loyalty is everything, danger is constant, and love is the greatest risk of all. 💣
#Cavaliere #DVessa #DarkRomance #RomanticSuspense #AntiheroRomance #StrongHeroine #SteamyRomanceReads #DangerousLove #Bookstagram #MorallyGreyHeroes #HighStakesRomance #LoyaltyAndBetrayal #RomanceReaders #EpicLoveStory
✨ Why You Should Read It:
• Wren: A resilient and strong heroine who knows how to handle herself around dangerous men but still finds herself shaken by Matteo's intensity.
• Matteo: A brooding, loyal antihero who's lived his life on the edge, only to find salvation in the unlikeliest of places—Wren.
• Romance: This isn’t your typical love story. It’s raw, gritty, and laced with the kind of emotional depth that keeps you hooked.
• Danger and Suspense: The ever-present threat of betrayal and death adds a thrilling layer to their story, making the stakes impossibly high.
💔 What to Expect:
• Passionate, heart-stopping moments as Wren and Matteo navigate a love born in chaos.
• A gritty look into loyalty, betrayal, and the sacrifices made in a world where danger is just a knock away.
• A story that balances vulnerability with unrelenting strength, proving love can bloom even in the darkest corners.
📖 Overall: Cavaliere is a rollercoaster of danger, romance, and devotion. D. Vessa delivers an emotionally charged and suspenseful narrative perfect for readers who love antiheroes, strong heroines, and high-stakes love stories.
💣 Step into a world where loyalty is everything, danger is constant, and love is the greatest risk of all. 💣
#Cavaliere #DVessa #DarkRomance #RomanticSuspense #AntiheroRomance #StrongHeroine #SteamyRomanceReads #DangerousLove #Bookstagram #MorallyGreyHeroes #HighStakesRomance #LoyaltyAndBetrayal #RomanceReaders #EpicLoveStory
November 19, 2024
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved Wren and Matteo’s story! From their first interaction to the epilogue I was obsessed! D. Vessa blew me away with her debut Cain and continued to write a great book with Cavaliere.
Wren:
She has so much sass and spunk it’s hard not to love her. I was laughing to much every time she didn’t take any of Matteo’s or anyone else’s shit. Her friendship with Delaney was such a fun part of the book. You could feel Matteo’s blood pressure rising every time Wren was told to do something she didn’t want to do and I was LIVING for it. Honestly Wren is who I aspire to be when I grow up lol
Matteo:
He is your typical morally grey Italian mafia boss. He goes from hating everyone to being obsessed with Wren after she helps him after a car accident. The way Matteo so begrudgingly admits to his feelings was so good. The feelings we get out of Matteo any time something happens to Wren are descriptive and powerful in the way that you can feel his guilt and regret and his need to just make sure she’s okay, nothing else matters until Wren is taken care of.
The other characters in this books also just made this all the more better. If you’ve read Cain, then you understand the Cain cameos were so perfect and I loved every minute of them. Aldo, Gio, and Alessio had me laughing from the shit they gave Matteo throughout the book. I’ve also learned that handwritten notes are my new favorite micro trope🫣
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved Wren and Matteo’s story! From their first interaction to the epilogue I was obsessed! D. Vessa blew me away with her debut Cain and continued to write a great book with Cavaliere.
Wren:
She has so much sass and spunk it’s hard not to love her. I was laughing to much every time she didn’t take any of Matteo’s or anyone else’s shit. Her friendship with Delaney was such a fun part of the book. You could feel Matteo’s blood pressure rising every time Wren was told to do something she didn’t want to do and I was LIVING for it. Honestly Wren is who I aspire to be when I grow up lol
Matteo:
He is your typical morally grey Italian mafia boss. He goes from hating everyone to being obsessed with Wren after she helps him after a car accident. The way Matteo so begrudgingly admits to his feelings was so good. The feelings we get out of Matteo any time something happens to Wren are descriptive and powerful in the way that you can feel his guilt and regret and his need to just make sure she’s okay, nothing else matters until Wren is taken care of.
The other characters in this books also just made this all the more better. If you’ve read Cain, then you understand the Cain cameos were so perfect and I loved every minute of them. Aldo, Gio, and Alessio had me laughing from the shit they gave Matteo throughout the book. I’ve also learned that handwritten notes are my new favorite micro trope🫣
November 20, 2024
ARC Review
I have been waiting for this since I came across a TikTok promoting Cain so I was absolutely thrilled to be picked for an ARC. I had such a hard time putting this book down! I would consider Cavaliere “mafia lite” because it is first and foremost a spicy romance with some mafia seasonings.
This book had me at the dedication.
“To all of the bitches who use bitch as a term of endearment.”
Wren is a strong, independent woman who doesn’t put up with people’s shit. She is honestly such a relatable character. Her best friend, Delaney, keeps telling her not to go running by herself but she does anyway and stumbles upon a car wreck. Matteo is instantly intrigued by the woman who saved him so he breaks into her house to say thank you.
It is a bit instalove-y so if that is not your thing, just be aware. But we love our morally grey men here and Matteo is definitely that. At the same time, I could definitely feel what Matteo was going through after seeing Wren at the motel. I loved how he tried telling Wren what to do and she was having NONE of that.
I only wish we got to see more of the conflict. I don’t want to spoil anything but we never really get the why, other than wanting power. Also I wish we got to see you know who’s ending on page but I understand that is not everyone’s thing.
I loved seeing the character’s from Cain. And I love the relationship Matteo had with his family. I loved watching the boys tease him and rag on him. I can’t wait to see what is in store for all of them!
I have been waiting for this since I came across a TikTok promoting Cain so I was absolutely thrilled to be picked for an ARC. I had such a hard time putting this book down! I would consider Cavaliere “mafia lite” because it is first and foremost a spicy romance with some mafia seasonings.
This book had me at the dedication.
“To all of the bitches who use bitch as a term of endearment.”
Wren is a strong, independent woman who doesn’t put up with people’s shit. She is honestly such a relatable character. Her best friend, Delaney, keeps telling her not to go running by herself but she does anyway and stumbles upon a car wreck. Matteo is instantly intrigued by the woman who saved him so he breaks into her house to say thank you.
It is a bit instalove-y so if that is not your thing, just be aware. But we love our morally grey men here and Matteo is definitely that. At the same time, I could definitely feel what Matteo was going through after seeing Wren at the motel. I loved how he tried telling Wren what to do and she was having NONE of that.
I only wish we got to see more of the conflict. I don’t want to spoil anything but we never really get the why, other than wanting power. Also I wish we got to see you know who’s ending on page but I understand that is not everyone’s thing.
I loved seeing the character’s from Cain. And I love the relationship Matteo had with his family. I loved watching the boys tease him and rag on him. I can’t wait to see what is in store for all of them!
November 17, 2024
Book Review
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
✨Mafia Romance
✨He falls first
✨Touch her and ☠️
✨Forced Proximity
Fav quote: “I don’t miss the way your eyes heat when I’m around. You can say you’re not mine until you’re blue in the face, but your body doesn’t lie. It knows who you belong to. ”
This book is absolutely amazing! I devoured it so quickly! It sucked me in and I couldn’t stop reading!!
Matteo, mmmm I love how grouchy but soft he is. He’s possessive, stalkerish and knows what he wants and won’t back down until he gets what he wants. He’s a don’t mess with me but turns into a teddy bear for Wren.
Wren is a feisty little thing who gives Matteo a run for his money. Rightfully so! She takes nothing from anyone and ready with a come back instantly! She’s loyal, hard around the edges but she fell for him even before she could admit it! I love her bestie Delaney and their relationship!
I loved how this book brought Cain back in and the dirty devils! Because I needed them back! This books was well written and. Enjoyed every single bit of it!
I can’t wait to see what else D has up her sleeve!’
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
✨Mafia Romance
✨He falls first
✨Touch her and ☠️
✨Forced Proximity
Fav quote: “I don’t miss the way your eyes heat when I’m around. You can say you’re not mine until you’re blue in the face, but your body doesn’t lie. It knows who you belong to. ”
This book is absolutely amazing! I devoured it so quickly! It sucked me in and I couldn’t stop reading!!
Matteo, mmmm I love how grouchy but soft he is. He’s possessive, stalkerish and knows what he wants and won’t back down until he gets what he wants. He’s a don’t mess with me but turns into a teddy bear for Wren.
Wren is a feisty little thing who gives Matteo a run for his money. Rightfully so! She takes nothing from anyone and ready with a come back instantly! She’s loyal, hard around the edges but she fell for him even before she could admit it! I love her bestie Delaney and their relationship!
I loved how this book brought Cain back in and the dirty devils! Because I needed them back! This books was well written and. Enjoyed every single bit of it!
I can’t wait to see what else D has up her sleeve!’
November 18, 2024
✨ 𝚂𝚙𝚘𝚒𝚕𝚎𝚛𝚜 ✨
𝚃𝚒𝚝𝚕𝚎/𝙰𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛:
Cavaliere - D. Vessa
𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
𝙼𝚊𝚒𝚗 𝙲𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜:
- Wren
- Matteo
𝚀𝚞𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚜:
“I knew I got good vibes from her. She just has this aura.”
"My Ma didn’t raise a fool. I know something that’s rare when I see it, and Wren? She’s rare."
"What you and I have is rare. People go their whole lives searching for the kind of connection we have."
𝚂𝚢𝚗𝚘𝚙𝚜𝚒𝚜:
Wren is on a run when she comes across a car that's crashed into a tree. Apparently, it's bad karma to mess with the dying man's wishes. So so listens to the stranger and calls for help.
𝚃𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚜:
I know this book is about Wren and Matteo but I need to start this off by saying Gio is my all time favorite person. Anyways. This book was SO good. I've read for 420 books this year and I have to say this will be in my top 5. I loved the storyline, characters and the spice level was 🔥 This was a wonderful read and I can't wait/hope to read Gio's story soon!
𝚃𝚛𝚘𝚙𝚎𝚜:
• Age gap
• He falls first & hard
• Touch her and 👋🏻
• Wonderful family
• Mafia
𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎:
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐:
I Did Something Bad - Taylor Swift
𝚃𝚒𝚝𝚕𝚎/𝙰𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛:
Cavaliere - D. Vessa
𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
𝙼𝚊𝚒𝚗 𝙲𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜:
- Wren
- Matteo
𝚀𝚞𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚜:
“I knew I got good vibes from her. She just has this aura.”
"My Ma didn’t raise a fool. I know something that’s rare when I see it, and Wren? She’s rare."
"What you and I have is rare. People go their whole lives searching for the kind of connection we have."
𝚂𝚢𝚗𝚘𝚙𝚜𝚒𝚜:
Wren is on a run when she comes across a car that's crashed into a tree. Apparently, it's bad karma to mess with the dying man's wishes. So so listens to the stranger and calls for help.
𝚃𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚜:
I know this book is about Wren and Matteo but I need to start this off by saying Gio is my all time favorite person. Anyways. This book was SO good. I've read for 420 books this year and I have to say this will be in my top 5. I loved the storyline, characters and the spice level was 🔥 This was a wonderful read and I can't wait/hope to read Gio's story soon!
𝚃𝚛𝚘𝚙𝚎𝚜:
• Age gap
• He falls first & hard
• Touch her and 👋🏻
• Wonderful family
• Mafia
𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎:
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐:
I Did Something Bad - Taylor Swift
November 21, 2024
Ahhh, this book was soo good! D Vessa did amazing! I absolutely loved her debut book Cain and she blew me away again with this book! This world she has created and all of the characters in it have entrapped me and have me begging for more! I loved Wren, who is the FMC in this book! She is feisty, witty, curvy, and can hold her own! Matteo is every book girlies dream! He’s possessive, obsessive, and was instantly wanting to claim Wren a his own! The plot in this story was amazing and the spice was soo good! Some parts of this book has me squealing and just added perfect details to the book! I cannot wait to see what D has next! Her writing is truly captivating and incredible! 10/10 recommend this book!
November 19, 2024
I thought this was such a refreshing version of a dark romance! Dark is my fav, but it often stresses me out hardcore and this was written in a way where it didn't make me crazy anxious the entire book. FMC was relatable and hilarious especially with her "inner monolouge" and I usually don't care for most FMC's so make this book much more enjoyable for me. MMC is everything though, as always, he is sooo good and I love that she included a "doppelganger" reference! Has a Happy Ending, good story line, great character building and well placed spice! Overall well worth the read! I hope she writes Gio's story next 😈 he sounds fun!
November 18, 2024
This is above all other Mafia books I've read! 😵💫 I was sucked in and left in a spiral! Aye!
Wren and Matteo were giggle worthy! The constant back and forth. Strong characters brilliantly written making you feel like you know them personally. Matteo is an obsessive, stalkerish guy who wants what he wants and will get it. Wren is a sassy little thing who makes Matteo work for it. Why not? 😏
Get this on your TBR list ASAP!
Thank you so much for letting me ARC review! I absolutely loved this story!
Wren and Matteo were giggle worthy! The constant back and forth. Strong characters brilliantly written making you feel like you know them personally. Matteo is an obsessive, stalkerish guy who wants what he wants and will get it. Wren is a sassy little thing who makes Matteo work for it. Why not? 😏
Get this on your TBR list ASAP!
Thank you so much for letting me ARC review! I absolutely loved this story!
November 21, 2024
3.75🌟 3🔥 1.5🖤
A good Mafia Romance. Definitely a great palette cleanser. The FMC is not a wallflower, not for anyone, and that made this a fun read. She's light on the snark, and her refusal to be the helpless victim added to this for me. I love a strong-willed FMC, especially one that doesn't shrink herself in the presence of the MMC.
While the MMC was a bit dominant, being a Mafia character, he wasn't the typical rough around the edges, 'bow to me' type. His love of family and his need to be with her made him endearing.
I enjoyed the story. It was medium spice and low on the dark scale.
A good Mafia Romance. Definitely a great palette cleanser. The FMC is not a wallflower, not for anyone, and that made this a fun read. She's light on the snark, and her refusal to be the helpless victim added to this for me. I love a strong-willed FMC, especially one that doesn't shrink herself in the presence of the MMC.
While the MMC was a bit dominant, being a Mafia character, he wasn't the typical rough around the edges, 'bow to me' type. His love of family and his need to be with her made him endearing.
I enjoyed the story. It was medium spice and low on the dark scale.
November 22, 2024
Let's start off with the fact that I usually only finish 1 book per week as a busy mom of 2 toddlers. I finished this in 2, YES TWO, days!
A bartender for a biker bar and the head of the Italian Mafia in their city.
He's obsessed first, but she gets his finger prints tattooed on her hips for her birthday and surprises him with it. 🥵🥵🥵
As far as the actual plot though, yes, read it. He gets into a car accident. She finds him and calls for help. Turns out someone was trying to murder him and now they are coming after her too. Just read it!
A bartender for a biker bar and the head of the Italian Mafia in their city.
He's obsessed first, but she gets his finger prints tattooed on her hips for her birthday and surprises him with it. 🥵🥵🥵
As far as the actual plot though, yes, read it. He gets into a car accident. She finds him and calls for help. Turns out someone was trying to murder him and now they are coming after her too. Just read it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2024
Author D. Vessa's Dark Mafia story “Cavaliere” was an exciting read filled with action, steam, romance, great banter, and excellent side characters. There was certainly not one lull in the story, and I eagerly read through the pages without wanting to stop. I loved Wren’s character. She can hold her own. Yet she has a vulnerable side as well. Matteo is truly the epitome of a Mafia leader but does and wants only the best for Wren.
I’m hoping there will be more from the other characters in the book, as it seems there was some setup for it. “Cavaliere” was an excellent read.
I’m hoping there will be more from the other characters in the book, as it seems there was some setup for it. “Cavaliere” was an excellent read.
November 17, 2024
Cavaliere - a quick mafia dark romance story
the FMC, Wren finds herself running by a car crash scene, and went to go help. But little did she know who she really helped out, a man in the Mafia.
Wren tries to go back to her normal life, but she could not stop thinking about the man she saved.
I loved the back and forth between Wren & Matteo, she certainly did not go down without a fight… a true strong FMC indeed. I love when characters get tattoos for their person
November 19, 2024
This one reads really well, and I would have finished it in one sitting if I didn't need to work. The story flows really well, and the characters are likeable. A few notes
- until about 50% of the book, I would have said that the book had a story along a good amount of smut, but sadly the story revolved around the characters rather than the mystery
- the side characters were all super interesting, but nothing much is revealed about them
- the mystery in the book had a good start, but not a good finish. It felt like the characters took over and the author forgot about the details of the mystery. It wasn't well delivered.
I received an ARC.
- until about 50% of the book, I would have said that the book had a story along a good amount of smut, but sadly the story revolved around the characters rather than the mystery
- the side characters were all super interesting, but nothing much is revealed about them
- the mystery in the book had a good start, but not a good finish. It felt like the characters took over and the author forgot about the details of the mystery. It wasn't well delivered.
I received an ARC.
November 22, 2024
I received an ARC for this one, and it’s my first ever ARC. Thank you, D Vessa 🫶
📝PLOT: I really enjoyed it! Wren happens upon Matteo’s wrecked car and saves his life. Later, Matteo goes to see her and is basically instantly obsessed with her. Wren turns out to be a little obsessed too (yay!). Anyways, there’s someone making moves to take Matteo out of the game, and now that includes trying to take Wren out also. So Matteo’s crazy 🍑 goes over the top with protecting her. That man is bananas lol
♥️ROMANCE: I enjoyed that they’re instantly into each other, and then quickly in love. There was no mess or fuss with OW or OM drama. They’ve got the sparks on all levels
🌶️SPICE: This was pretty spicy, and I was here for it 😍 I’d give it like a 2.5🌶️ There were a few things he’d say/do that had me melting, omg
👩❤️👨MCs: Wren is a fun character with tons of sass and craziness, but she also has her baggage and insecurities. One of them being, believing some things are too good to last. Her love language is def words of affirmation. Matteo is a little freak that loves having Wren give him stress lines 😂 Also, he doesn’t flip flop between his feelings. They’re both SO funny and both believe the other is crazy lol
👫SIDE CHARACTERS: They are awesome and crack me up! I loved seeing Cain’s funny self (from the book Cain). Delaney is the BEST girl friend. And Rio’s family are hilarious with their constant trolling of Matteo, AKA the head of the their mafia family. It’s just so hilarious 😂
4⭐️2.5🌶️
🔫Mafia Romance
🧐Instant Attraction
🏃♂️➡️He Falls First
🪢Forced Proximity
🤝You’re Mine Vibes
💀Touch Her and Perish
👥Dual POV
♥️HEA
🗓️Releases on 12/06
Side note, you don’t need to read Cain to enjoy Cavaliere.
📝PLOT: I really enjoyed it! Wren happens upon Matteo’s wrecked car and saves his life. Later, Matteo goes to see her and is basically instantly obsessed with her. Wren turns out to be a little obsessed too (yay!). Anyways, there’s someone making moves to take Matteo out of the game, and now that includes trying to take Wren out also. So Matteo’s crazy 🍑 goes over the top with protecting her. That man is bananas lol
♥️ROMANCE: I enjoyed that they’re instantly into each other, and then quickly in love. There was no mess or fuss with OW or OM drama. They’ve got the sparks on all levels
🌶️SPICE: This was pretty spicy, and I was here for it 😍 I’d give it like a 2.5🌶️ There were a few things he’d say/do that had me melting, omg
👩❤️👨MCs: Wren is a fun character with tons of sass and craziness, but she also has her baggage and insecurities. One of them being, believing some things are too good to last. Her love language is def words of affirmation. Matteo is a little freak that loves having Wren give him stress lines 😂 Also, he doesn’t flip flop between his feelings. They’re both SO funny and both believe the other is crazy lol
👫SIDE CHARACTERS: They are awesome and crack me up! I loved seeing Cain’s funny self (from the book Cain). Delaney is the BEST girl friend. And Rio’s family are hilarious with their constant trolling of Matteo, AKA the head of the their mafia family. It’s just so hilarious 😂
4⭐️2.5🌶️
🔫Mafia Romance
🧐Instant Attraction
🏃♂️➡️He Falls First
🪢Forced Proximity
🤝You’re Mine Vibes
💀Touch Her and Perish
👥Dual POV
♥️HEA
🗓️Releases on 12/06
Side note, you don’t need to read Cain to enjoy Cavaliere.
November 17, 2024
This is a crazy amazing book. Sucked me in and I just could not stop. Mafia story but unlike one I have read before I’m just wanting to spill all the details. Wren is one amazing MFC and her life changes in an instant the minute she does a good deed.
December 6, 2024
Listen babe, if you give me a smutty age gap book I’ll read it. If you give me a smutty age gap mafia book that well written with a curvy FMC and power struggles, well…..I may just order your entire back catalogue 🤣
Absolutely fucking smashed this one!
Absolutely fucking smashed this one!
November 19, 2024
I absolutely loved Cavaliere. The banter between Matteo and Wren was one of the best I’ve seen. This definitely a he falls first Mafia boss is really a softy when it comes to Wren. Very well written and watching their story unfold was amazing. If it’s not already on your TBR add it now and get it when it comes out on 12/6!
January 2, 2025
honestly, this started out so good but quickly went downhill.. most of the sex talk made my ovaries cough and the rest was just cliché with a side of a forgotten plot
November 6, 2024
After the reading slump I’ve been in I sure needed this book! I would have read this in a day if my life aloud it, it was so good!
Matteo is this wall of steel on the outside but an absolute teddy bear in the inside only to Wren. He is totally and completely obsessed with her. An unhinged, burn the world down for her. Whereas Wren is very feisty and guarded. She doesn’t have very many friends and doesn’t trust easy. Then she meets Matteo and he starts breaking them down slowly.
Wren also knows all the right buttons to push to get under his skin and it had me rolling. lol. The chemistry they both share is undeniable! The way she wrote that spice was absolute fire.🔥 Then we have Delaney her best friend who I also go a kick out of but was so loyal to Wren. Gio was another one of my favorites! He humor and how unhinged he was just did something to me🤭
Matteo is this wall of steel on the outside but an absolute teddy bear in the inside only to Wren. He is totally and completely obsessed with her. An unhinged, burn the world down for her. Whereas Wren is very feisty and guarded. She doesn’t have very many friends and doesn’t trust easy. Then she meets Matteo and he starts breaking them down slowly.
Wren also knows all the right buttons to push to get under his skin and it had me rolling. lol. The chemistry they both share is undeniable! The way she wrote that spice was absolute fire.🔥 Then we have Delaney her best friend who I also go a kick out of but was so loyal to Wren. Gio was another one of my favorites! He humor and how unhinged he was just did something to me🤭
November 6, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
"Be a good girl for me , Tesoro"
Matteo the Italian speaking touch her and die protective MMC will have you drooling over him everytime you turn around along with some of his other spicy family members 🤤
Cavaliere is part of the Ravena Heights world by D.Vessa and is the first book in the Adduci series. Intertwined with the Dirty Devils series you don't need to read Cain first but..... I highly suggest grabbing both books 😉. I dove head first into Cain and fell in love and Cavaliere proved to be nothing short of the same feelings.
D.Vessa has a way of keeping her readers engaged and her character building is phenomenal!
I can't wait to continue reading more into the two series as the progress 🖤
🌶🌶🌶🌶
"Be a good girl for me , Tesoro"
Matteo the Italian speaking touch her and die protective MMC will have you drooling over him everytime you turn around along with some of his other spicy family members 🤤
Cavaliere is part of the Ravena Heights world by D.Vessa and is the first book in the Adduci series. Intertwined with the Dirty Devils series you don't need to read Cain first but..... I highly suggest grabbing both books 😉. I dove head first into Cain and fell in love and Cavaliere proved to be nothing short of the same feelings.
D.Vessa has a way of keeping her readers engaged and her character building is phenomenal!
I can't wait to continue reading more into the two series as the progress 🖤
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