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Dark Hearts #2
Where Wild Hearts Dance
Hate is too small a word for the way I feel about Benito Bernadi, the Di Santo’s consigliere. If Benito hadn’t ruined the Falconi family two years ago, they wouldn’t have dragged their son – my best friend – across 50 States, and I wouldn’t have given Federico my V card as a parting gift.
My sister’s marriage to the don of the Di Santo mafia family makes it hard to avoid Benito’s rock solid presence and smoldering glares. But when he goes and buys the office above my dance studio, escaping him is impossible.
He knows just how to get under my skin and he’ll stop at nothing to do so. Shooting my stalker in the head? Tick. Treating me like I belong to him. Tick. Flashing his inked chest and corded biceps when he thinks I’m not looking? Tick, tick, tick.
Just when my head has been emptied of sharp put-downs, and filled with the feel of Benito’s rough hands on my thighs and searing lips on my throat, Federico Falconi comes home.
And he’s no longer a scorned boy. He’s a man with a chip on his shoulder, a loaded gun in his waistband and a thirst for revenge.
And he’s going to make me choose.
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Mafia romance ~ Enemies to lovers ~ Touch her and d^e ~ Opposites attract ~ Possessive & jealous MMC ~ Feisty FMC
My sister’s marriage to the don of the Di Santo mafia family makes it hard to avoid Benito’s rock solid presence and smoldering glares. But when he goes and buys the office above my dance studio, escaping him is impossible.
He knows just how to get under my skin and he’ll stop at nothing to do so. Shooting my stalker in the head? Tick. Treating me like I belong to him. Tick. Flashing his inked chest and corded biceps when he thinks I’m not looking? Tick, tick, tick.
Just when my head has been emptied of sharp put-downs, and filled with the feel of Benito’s rough hands on my thighs and searing lips on my throat, Federico Falconi comes home.
And he’s no longer a scorned boy. He’s a man with a chip on his shoulder, a loaded gun in his waistband and a thirst for revenge.
And he’s going to make me choose.
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Mafia romance ~ Enemies to lovers ~ Touch her and d^e ~ Opposites attract ~ Possessive & jealous MMC ~ Feisty FMC
448 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2025
76 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
August 27, 2025
This book and this author are so damn underrated wtf. I loved Benito and Contessa. She was just a straight-up baddie like when she dropped her bikini in front of him HOLY SHIT. 🔥🤭She gives major Gianna vibes no wonder I liked her so much. The story was interesting and honestly really hooking. I actually liked this more than the first book. She’s a new author but she’s doing her thing and I respect that. Technically I’d give this book a solid 3.5 stars but since she’s new and I wanna support her I gave it 4 (might change it back to 3 though because I’m indecisive as hell) but it really was good and kept me entertained. Now let’s talk about the cons. Benito was a little too nonchalant for me like if he’s ass just had a bit more personality and some actual spice in his character I would’ve liked this book SO much more. 🙄 And what he did to Contessa? Weird as fuck okay. I started this book at 5 stars in my mind but then it kinda dropped toward the end because they just started fucking all the time. Like I don’t mind the spice at all I love spice but I wanted more than that. I wanted more tension more chemistry more push and pull more yearning and build-up not just constant sex. Everything started slow which I actually loved because it was the perfect amount of slow burn but then the ending picked up too fast. Benito needed to do more growling and yearning and actually fight for her instead of hiding like a scared little puppy. And Contessa should’ve stood her ground more and made him work for it. Overall for a new author this was really good and she has so much potential but with more tension and character development this book could’ve been something really special for me
May 1, 2025
I highly recommend reading first Where Dark hearts devour, where you meet the Di Santo crime family.
In this second book we get a captivating mafia plot, well developed, with rivals to lovers vibes and steamy romance.
I loved this book. The tension between Benito and Tessa was wonderful. Chef's kiss.
In this second book we get a captivating mafia plot, well developed, with rivals to lovers vibes and steamy romance.
I loved this book. The tension between Benito and Tessa was wonderful. Chef's kiss.
April 3, 2025
A huge, huge thank you to Victoria Holliday for the ARC of Where Wild Hearts Dance!
I'd fallen in love with this series after reading Where Dark Hearts Devour and could not wait for the next instalment! This book follows Trilby's sister Contessa and Benito who is part of the Di Santo family.
Benito and Contessa have never seen eye to eye especially after Benito ruined her best friend's family and sent them running. When they become closer due to the relationship between Trilby and Cristiano, Benito can't help but get under her skin. He becomes her protector because someone needs to do it.
The spicy scenes between the two of them show how much chemistry they have. The scene with the ice? Holy hell Batman. I could not get enough of these two.
But just as they thought everything was going well, Federico Falconi comes home. And he's arrived with a chip on his shoulder and a thirst for revenge. Leading Benito to believe Contessa is working with him to overthrow the Di Santos.
Can Contessa prove to Benito she can be trusted? Or are they doomed to fail?
I cannot wait for the next instalment especially after reading the ending of this book! I'll be eagerly awaiting it!
I'd fallen in love with this series after reading Where Dark Hearts Devour and could not wait for the next instalment! This book follows Trilby's sister Contessa and Benito who is part of the Di Santo family.
Benito and Contessa have never seen eye to eye especially after Benito ruined her best friend's family and sent them running. When they become closer due to the relationship between Trilby and Cristiano, Benito can't help but get under her skin. He becomes her protector because someone needs to do it.
The spicy scenes between the two of them show how much chemistry they have. The scene with the ice? Holy hell Batman. I could not get enough of these two.
But just as they thought everything was going well, Federico Falconi comes home. And he's arrived with a chip on his shoulder and a thirst for revenge. Leading Benito to believe Contessa is working with him to overthrow the Di Santos.
Can Contessa prove to Benito she can be trusted? Or are they doomed to fail?
I cannot wait for the next instalment especially after reading the ending of this book! I'll be eagerly awaiting it!
October 13, 2025
3,8⭐️
Книга цікава, герої сподобались, розвиток їх стосунків теж, чоловік зі шрамами зовні та дівчина зі шрамами всередині 💔
Але був момент під час «викрадення» який мені не зайшов, він тут був лишній, тому знижена оцінка.
Книга цікава, герої сподобались, розвиток їх стосунків теж, чоловік зі шрамами зовні та дівчина зі шрамами всередині 💔
Але був момент під час «викрадення» який мені не зайшов, він тут був лишній, тому знижена оцінка.
April 16, 2025
Squeals. This was the highly anticipated second book that I needed in this world, and it did not friggin disappoint!!
it was sizzling, spicy, love hate relationship with added danger, and action packed laced with sassiness and banter, all wrapped up with the thin line of love and hate 😍
Now you know i love a mafia read and this is a dark mafia read and let me friggin tell you Benito is an obsessive man with a darkness who doesn’t trust BUT incomes Tessa and that protectiveness shines through!
"𝙁𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚. 𝙎𝙚𝙚𝙢𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙖 𝙗𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙖 𝙜𝙞𝙧𝙡𝙨 𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮𝙨."
The way Victoria has captured Tessa's vunerabilities was beautiful and really pulls on your heart strings. However, Tess was fiesty and sassy, and the combination of Tessa and Benito was extraordinary 👌
This is a phenomal and captivating read, and I honestly couldn't put this down and will be rereading pronto to re fall in love with these two!!
it was sizzling, spicy, love hate relationship with added danger, and action packed laced with sassiness and banter, all wrapped up with the thin line of love and hate 😍
Now you know i love a mafia read and this is a dark mafia read and let me friggin tell you Benito is an obsessive man with a darkness who doesn’t trust BUT incomes Tessa and that protectiveness shines through!
"𝙁𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙙𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚. 𝙎𝙚𝙚𝙢𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙖 𝙗𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙖 𝙜𝙞𝙧𝙡𝙨 𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮𝙨."
The way Victoria has captured Tessa's vunerabilities was beautiful and really pulls on your heart strings. However, Tess was fiesty and sassy, and the combination of Tessa and Benito was extraordinary 👌
This is a phenomal and captivating read, and I honestly couldn't put this down and will be rereading pronto to re fall in love with these two!!
April 20, 2025
Oooo I am just loving this series!
She has nothing but hate for the Di Santo’s consigliere. Benito Bernardi ruined it all. He was the reason the Falconi family had to leave the country, taking her best friend away with her B card in his back pocket.
Now her sister is marrying the Di Santo don there is no getting away from him. But when he moves into the office space above her dance studio it is made impossible to avoid him.
Just as things begin to change between the pair, Frederico Falconi comes home and he has a chip on his shoulder, a gun in his waistband and a thirst for revenge.
He also wants to make her choose.
I loved this one! It’s the second book in the series and follows Trilby’s sister Contessa. And it was a perfect enemies to lovers.
I loved the chemistry between Contessa and Benito. The spicy scenes were hot as hell! But I enjoyed how well matched they both were.
Both have this brutal past, issues with trust and are slightly dark and wild when it comes to the bedroom stuff (if you get what I mean).
So it was great seeing their growth throughout the book.
I hope to see more of them as they were a great pair and I look forward to what the next book brings.
She has nothing but hate for the Di Santo’s consigliere. Benito Bernardi ruined it all. He was the reason the Falconi family had to leave the country, taking her best friend away with her B card in his back pocket.
Now her sister is marrying the Di Santo don there is no getting away from him. But when he moves into the office space above her dance studio it is made impossible to avoid him.
Just as things begin to change between the pair, Frederico Falconi comes home and he has a chip on his shoulder, a gun in his waistband and a thirst for revenge.
He also wants to make her choose.
I loved this one! It’s the second book in the series and follows Trilby’s sister Contessa. And it was a perfect enemies to lovers.
I loved the chemistry between Contessa and Benito. The spicy scenes were hot as hell! But I enjoyed how well matched they both were.
Both have this brutal past, issues with trust and are slightly dark and wild when it comes to the bedroom stuff (if you get what I mean).
So it was great seeing their growth throughout the book.
I hope to see more of them as they were a great pair and I look forward to what the next book brings.
June 30, 2025
This is the second part of the series, and I am excited to see what the future holds for Sera and Andreas. This installment focuses on Tess and Benny. Tess has a strong aversion to Benny. Benny, on the other hand, is drawn to her despite her evident dislike. He perceives her as a risk and takes charge of ensuring her safety. This results in a clash of wills that gradually transforms into a sultry and passionate romance. Predictably, an unexpected event or person intervenes, causing chaos in their relationship and prompting them to part ways due to issues of mistrust and self-destructive tendencies. Ultimately, the story reaches a satisfying conclusion with a happily-ever-after ending and further developments.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 17, 2025
Oh my , I so loved Where Wild Hearts Dance. It's the perfect dark mafia romance with just the right amount of love-hate relationship between Tessa and Beni mixed with revenge and the years long rivalry that triggered the events unfolding in the story. Loved those glimpses in Trilby and Cristiano's story and the further involvement of the Castellanos with the Di Santos. That glimpse in the events from Tessa's past explain a lot about her and her fear of entering the mafia society. She's so smart and fierce and still she refuses to feel fear . And that irritate Benito . Big time. Oh boy , that banter between them was chef's kiss. The angst and the tension were palpable. And it became even bigger when Tessa confessed her secret to Benito. And that attracted him even more to her. Those two had that crazy chemistry between them and they were steaming hot together. That rivalry war around them throw a big dark shadow over them and their relationship and Beni lost it there for a hot minute. And I was totally surprised when Cristiano got to play the role of an advisor for his advisor. It was good when Tessa parted ways with her former best friend for good and I'm still surprised how clueless Federico was about the events around him . That major twist of the events at the end kept me on the edge of my seat for a couple of chapters. Was so happy for Beni to fix his relationship with Tessa and for that grand declaration in front of their family. But that plot twists that happened at the wedding. Nope . I expected some of it but not the rest. Really? Now I can't wait for for Sera's story because with that cliffhanger and that plot twist it will be an angsty one with probably the slowest burn ever. Because the Castellano girls know how to hold a grudge when betrayed. All I can say again is . Really? After that ending Victoria Holliday is the cliffhanger queen of the mafia romance.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book.
April 18, 2025
I was so excited to read Tess and Benito's story after seeing their tension filled interaction at the end of Where Dark Hearts Devour. This book did not disappoint! A perfect enemies to lovers story, with slow burn and verbal sparring. So many moments were such a tease but led to the greatest payoff.
When I read Where Dark Hearts Devour last year, I remember being swept away into the story and becoming so invested in the characters. Everything just hit me right in the feels and I absolutely love when I find authors who have this magic. Reading this book continued the magic for me. I smiled so hard reading the glimpses of Trilby and Cristiano's continued romance and eventual wedding. It was woven so well into the book and didn't take away from the real stars of Tess and Benito. They were gone for each other from the moment they first locked eyes, it was so funny how hard they tried to deny it. Every moment of tension and pointed barbs built upon itself and peeled back the layers of who they really were. Perfect for each other. Wild and reckless and dark. Benito was unhinged and I loved every second of it. I had to grab my jaw off the floor so many times, lol!
The last 100 pages or so were such a whirlwind, I had no idea how things were going to end up. I was not expecting that reveal at the end and now it just makes me so excited to read Sera's book. I highly, highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mafia romances, or if you've never read this genre, pick up the first book in this series. This series will turn you into a fiend for them. So amazing!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When I read Where Dark Hearts Devour last year, I remember being swept away into the story and becoming so invested in the characters. Everything just hit me right in the feels and I absolutely love when I find authors who have this magic. Reading this book continued the magic for me. I smiled so hard reading the glimpses of Trilby and Cristiano's continued romance and eventual wedding. It was woven so well into the book and didn't take away from the real stars of Tess and Benito. They were gone for each other from the moment they first locked eyes, it was so funny how hard they tried to deny it. Every moment of tension and pointed barbs built upon itself and peeled back the layers of who they really were. Perfect for each other. Wild and reckless and dark. Benito was unhinged and I loved every second of it. I had to grab my jaw off the floor so many times, lol!
The last 100 pages or so were such a whirlwind, I had no idea how things were going to end up. I was not expecting that reveal at the end and now it just makes me so excited to read Sera's book. I highly, highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mafia romances, or if you've never read this genre, pick up the first book in this series. This series will turn you into a fiend for them. So amazing!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 6, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Review: Victoria has done it again! Not only did I love the first book in this series Where Dark Hearts Devour which I highly recommend reading first, but I also ate up every single page for Where Wild Hearts Dance. If you have never experienced the books or writing of this author, you are missing out because these books are phenomenal and should be on everyone's TBR.
This story follows Contessa who is the sister of Trilby and Benito who is the consigliere to the Di Santo family. Contessa hates Bentio with every fiber of her being after her best friend Fed and his family are ran out of the state by Benito or so she thinks. Benito finds himself infatuated with Tess when he finds out that she has no self-awareness and takes on the role to protect her even taking some things to extreme measures to be closer to her. 3 years after Fed leaves Tess he makes his return with revenge in mind. Will Benito turn on Tess and think she is helping him? Will they make it out of this unscathed? This book leaves off on a cliffhanger to set up for book 3 and I seriously can't wait to find out what happens next.
Thank you so much to the amazing and fantastic Victoria Holliday for allowing me to be a part of her ARC team and for getting a chance to be a part of this journey with these characters.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Review: Victoria has done it again! Not only did I love the first book in this series Where Dark Hearts Devour which I highly recommend reading first, but I also ate up every single page for Where Wild Hearts Dance. If you have never experienced the books or writing of this author, you are missing out because these books are phenomenal and should be on everyone's TBR.
This story follows Contessa who is the sister of Trilby and Benito who is the consigliere to the Di Santo family. Contessa hates Bentio with every fiber of her being after her best friend Fed and his family are ran out of the state by Benito or so she thinks. Benito finds himself infatuated with Tess when he finds out that she has no self-awareness and takes on the role to protect her even taking some things to extreme measures to be closer to her. 3 years after Fed leaves Tess he makes his return with revenge in mind. Will Benito turn on Tess and think she is helping him? Will they make it out of this unscathed? This book leaves off on a cliffhanger to set up for book 3 and I seriously can't wait to find out what happens next.
Thank you so much to the amazing and fantastic Victoria Holliday for allowing me to be a part of her ARC team and for getting a chance to be a part of this journey with these characters.
April 8, 2025
I am incredibly grateful to be part of the ARC team for Victoria Holliday and to have access to the amazing stories she creates. Why, you might ask? Because I get front-row seats to stories like this one. After reading the first book in the series, I wasn’t sure how I would feel about Tess’s story, as she was somewhat of an enigma to me. However, I was pleasantly surprised. Benito and Contessa quickly became one of my favorite couples, and I think they will stay that way for a while.
Tess’s personality really resonated with me, and I was thrilled when Benito was able to look beyond the layers she used to present herself to the world and truly understand her. The depth of their connection was beautifully portrayed, and it was rewarding to see their bond grow.
In terms of plot, while I thoroughly enjoyed the story, I do think a bit more angst could have made it even more compelling—though that’s just my personal preference. Regardless, I’m beyond excited to see this series gaining momentum and hope it receives the recognition it truly deserves. Victoria's writing skills continue to evolve with every story, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Tess’s personality really resonated with me, and I was thrilled when Benito was able to look beyond the layers she used to present herself to the world and truly understand her. The depth of their connection was beautifully portrayed, and it was rewarding to see their bond grow.
In terms of plot, while I thoroughly enjoyed the story, I do think a bit more angst could have made it even more compelling—though that’s just my personal preference. Regardless, I’m beyond excited to see this series gaining momentum and hope it receives the recognition it truly deserves. Victoria's writing skills continue to evolve with every story, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
April 16, 2025
Imagine a guy following you for three years, and you do nothing about it because it's not that dangerous (sure). But then, your brother-in-law's consigliere shoots the stalker in the middle of the day. 😏
But the twist? He didn't do it because he was stalking you Instead, he smelled your hair, and he was too close for his liking. Sounds like an interesting plot, right? Well Where the Wild Hearts Dance is about Contessa, whose sister married the Italian don, and she has hated his consigliere for 3 years now! The reason? He is the reason why she had to lose her virginity to her best friend. 👀
Years later, the hate keeps growing, but now they both find each other stealing glances, slight touches, teasing, banters and whatnot.
Benito is possessive with a capital P. He does a lot of things to be with Tessa, and some are legal; well, most of them are, of course, illegal. 😩🤌🏻 He noticed the small change in her behaviour, how she always chooses other's happiness before hers. LOVE THIS MAN❤🔥
YOU WILL FALL IN LOVE WITH THEIR BANTERS AND THE WAY BENITO LOVES TESSA 💅🏻
But the twist? He didn't do it because he was stalking you Instead, he smelled your hair, and he was too close for his liking. Sounds like an interesting plot, right? Well Where the Wild Hearts Dance is about Contessa, whose sister married the Italian don, and she has hated his consigliere for 3 years now! The reason? He is the reason why she had to lose her virginity to her best friend. 👀
Years later, the hate keeps growing, but now they both find each other stealing glances, slight touches, teasing, banters and whatnot.
Benito is possessive with a capital P. He does a lot of things to be with Tessa, and some are legal; well, most of them are, of course, illegal. 😩🤌🏻 He noticed the small change in her behaviour, how she always chooses other's happiness before hers. LOVE THIS MAN❤🔥
YOU WILL FALL IN LOVE WITH THEIR BANTERS AND THE WAY BENITO LOVES TESSA 💅🏻
April 14, 2025
Wow, what a fantastic 2nd book.
Victoria has done it again, I loved the 1st book When Dark Hearts Denvour, and this is just as brilliant, highly recommend both.
This book follows Trilby's sister Contessa & Bentino, who is the consigliere of the Di Santo family.
They always say love and hate collide.
When Tess's best friend says he and his family have been forced to move away and it's all because of Bantino Tess hates him with a Vengeance, she blames him for a big thing that happend in her life that could have been prevented.
Bantino is obsessed with Tess and makes its his mission to protect her, to be close to her.
Years after her best friend returns for revenge, will Bentino think Tess has been playing him all along that is all been game to her, or will they get out of this unaffected?
Definitely one to read and again ending on a brilliant cliffhanger, ready for the next instalment 😍 roll on book 3.
Victoria has done it again, I loved the 1st book When Dark Hearts Denvour, and this is just as brilliant, highly recommend both.
This book follows Trilby's sister Contessa & Bentino, who is the consigliere of the Di Santo family.
They always say love and hate collide.
When Tess's best friend says he and his family have been forced to move away and it's all because of Bantino Tess hates him with a Vengeance, she blames him for a big thing that happend in her life that could have been prevented.
Bantino is obsessed with Tess and makes its his mission to protect her, to be close to her.
Years after her best friend returns for revenge, will Bentino think Tess has been playing him all along that is all been game to her, or will they get out of this unaffected?
Definitely one to read and again ending on a brilliant cliffhanger, ready for the next instalment 😍 roll on book 3.
April 8, 2025
Where Wild Hearts Dance
I am seriously not okay! I have never been so mad ever. I was so not ready for this book to end and to end on a cliffhanger! I have so many questions so many!! But I will say this was absolutely so good. Just like book one. This is packed with so much plot and some spice. But the plot in Victoria’s books are seriously chefs kiss. The characters are wonderful. I seriously fell in love with Tess and Benny. I want to jump in this book so bad! The way she writes these characters is absolutely amazing. From there past, to the present, and a sneak peeks at the future. I really hope in book 3 we get the rest of Tess and bennys story but more importantly Sera’s story to our stranger that appears at the end of the book. I need more to that story. We get a taste. Small but still. Either way you flip it we need more of it!!!
I am seriously not okay! I have never been so mad ever. I was so not ready for this book to end and to end on a cliffhanger! I have so many questions so many!! But I will say this was absolutely so good. Just like book one. This is packed with so much plot and some spice. But the plot in Victoria’s books are seriously chefs kiss. The characters are wonderful. I seriously fell in love with Tess and Benny. I want to jump in this book so bad! The way she writes these characters is absolutely amazing. From there past, to the present, and a sneak peeks at the future. I really hope in book 3 we get the rest of Tess and bennys story but more importantly Sera’s story to our stranger that appears at the end of the book. I need more to that story. We get a taste. Small but still. Either way you flip it we need more of it!!!
April 16, 2025
Where Wild Hearts Dance is a dark, mafia romance. Contessa (Tessa) sees her best friend’s uncle getting shot by Benito and his men. She blames him for everything, including the fact that her best friend and his family had to leave, miles and miles away.
Now, three years later, her sister is getting married to the don of the mafia family and she still blames Benito. Until she learns the truth behind everything.
Since Benito came back in Tessa’s life a few months ago, he feels very protective of her. Okay, her sister is getting married to his boss, but still, he wants to protect her at no cost.
In between the hateful conversations they’ve had, I thought it would happen sooner for them to get together in the heat of the moment. But everything I though they would kiss, the author made something happen for them to part ways. What a way to build up the tension between them. I loved it.
Now, three years later, her sister is getting married to the don of the mafia family and she still blames Benito. Until she learns the truth behind everything.
Since Benito came back in Tessa’s life a few months ago, he feels very protective of her. Okay, her sister is getting married to his boss, but still, he wants to protect her at no cost.
In between the hateful conversations they’ve had, I thought it would happen sooner for them to get together in the heat of the moment. But everything I though they would kiss, the author made something happen for them to part ways. What a way to build up the tension between them. I loved it.
April 5, 2025
So in love with this story! Contessa and Benito. Benito is consigliere to the Di Santo family. The new Don is married to Contessa's sister. Benito has always been intrigued with Contessa as she glares at him with hatred in her eyes. This is a long slow burn before he realizes why she hates him so much. One thing builds on another until she has no choice but to trust Benito. Benito trusting her is a harder hill to climb. Love these two together, they understand one anothers wounds. More to come in book three!
April 8, 2025
Book started slow but it easily wrapped me up! After book 1 (Where Dark Hearts Devour) I was so eager to read Tess and Bennys story. While I do love me some spice like ASAP I will say when Tess and Benny finally go together it seems a bit rushed even with the tension building but it doesn't take away from their story and the spice. Fed coming back I wanna I say I called it but I didn't not see the ending coming at all. Again Victoria left me thirsty and on a cliff hanger and I’m anxious for book 3.
April 14, 2025
(Mafia romance, enemies to lovers, slow burn, she's a dancer, lots of tension, steam and spice!)
This steamy, slow burn mafia romance had me on the edge of my seat! The enemies to lovers vibes amped up the tension so much that when the slow burn paid out it was FIRE!
In this book you get a detailed and captivating mafia plot, well developed and interesting characters and delicious tension and banter.
I really enjoyed book one and this book, book two, was a great read! That ending and cliffhanger has me feral for more!
This steamy, slow burn mafia romance had me on the edge of my seat! The enemies to lovers vibes amped up the tension so much that when the slow burn paid out it was FIRE!
In this book you get a detailed and captivating mafia plot, well developed and interesting characters and delicious tension and banter.
I really enjoyed book one and this book, book two, was a great read! That ending and cliffhanger has me feral for more!
April 14, 2025
Second instalment of the Mafia series from Victoria Holliday & it definitely didn't disappoint! This story focuses on Tessa, the third daughter who is an up and coming dancer. Her childhood friend has to flee the area, however in the three years since he departs, Tessa finds herself falling for one of Cristiano's right hand men Benito. I love the crossover of the characters from the first instalment and this really does end on a cliffhanger. Genuinely looking forward to the third instalment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2025
I went into this book without reading the first one, it can be read as a standalone but I will be going back to read the first. It got me hooked instantly! They’re both completely obsessed but can’t see it under all their banter. Contessa blames Benito for driving her best friend away & he hates how careless she is with her life, after getting rid of her stalker. So many twists & it ends in a cliffhanger that you don’t see coming!
April 14, 2025
And this was another great installment in this series.
You could feel the hatred that Tess had for Benito. Their tension was top notch. Tess was fiesty and sassy and I loved her snappy comebacks. Benito pushed her buttons just right.
Don't even get me started on their sexual chemistry is was spicy has hell!
It was good being back with group again - this world that @victoriahollidaywrites is just amazing. Looking forward to the next book!
4.5 stars
You could feel the hatred that Tess had for Benito. Their tension was top notch. Tess was fiesty and sassy and I loved her snappy comebacks. Benito pushed her buttons just right.
Don't even get me started on their sexual chemistry is was spicy has hell!
It was good being back with group again - this world that @victoriahollidaywrites is just amazing. Looking forward to the next book!
4.5 stars
July 31, 2025
It’s a shame because I realllyyyy liked this one, but that basement scene completely ruined everything for me.
I get that there has to be a conflict in every novel, but this one felt unjustified, rushed and just plain fucking stupid.
I cant’t believe a tiny misunderstanding led to her essentially getting r@p£d.
Im going to give it three stars because I really enjoyed the rest of the story, and I’m going to pretend that this part of the book never happened lmao
😒😒😒😒
I get that there has to be a conflict in every novel, but this one felt unjustified, rushed and just plain fucking stupid.
I cant’t believe a tiny misunderstanding led to her essentially getting r@p£d.
Im going to give it three stars because I really enjoyed the rest of the story, and I’m going to pretend that this part of the book never happened lmao
😒😒😒😒
April 15, 2025
Well what a mixed bag...in a good way! Lots of darkness, twists and gun fights. But, also unexpected lightness on occasion. I love Benito and Tess together; they just work!
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
April 6, 2025
Full RTC
April 15, 2025
⭐ 4.5/5
🌶 3/5
🔥 Dual POV
Okay, I loved the first book in the Dark Hearts series, but this one? It might have stolen the top spot. The tension between Benito and Contessa was everything. You could feel it radiating off the page. Contessa can’t stand Benito—he drove away her best friend and left her fuming. But the minute he walks back into her life? All those fiery emotions return… and not all of them are rage.
The enemies-to-lovers vibes were immaculate. There’s this push and pull between them that had me hooked. Benito reads Contessa like a book—he knows what she wants even when she won’t say it out loud, and that energy? Chef’s kiss. And Benito himself? Whew. Damaged, dangerous, and just the kind of mafia enforcer we love. His whole “I don’t care about anyone” act crumbles the second Contessa walks into the room.
If you love mafia romance, enemies to lovers, and dirty talk that makes you blush, this one needs to be on your TBR. 🔥
🌶 3/5
🔥 Dual POV
Okay, I loved the first book in the Dark Hearts series, but this one? It might have stolen the top spot. The tension between Benito and Contessa was everything. You could feel it radiating off the page. Contessa can’t stand Benito—he drove away her best friend and left her fuming. But the minute he walks back into her life? All those fiery emotions return… and not all of them are rage.
The enemies-to-lovers vibes were immaculate. There’s this push and pull between them that had me hooked. Benito reads Contessa like a book—he knows what she wants even when she won’t say it out loud, and that energy? Chef’s kiss. And Benito himself? Whew. Damaged, dangerous, and just the kind of mafia enforcer we love. His whole “I don’t care about anyone” act crumbles the second Contessa walks into the room.
If you love mafia romance, enemies to lovers, and dirty talk that makes you blush, this one needs to be on your TBR. 🔥
April 17, 2025
After reading the first book in the series I was so excited to dive into this one. This book is about Tess and Benito. Absolutely love them both. Benito is protective and obsessed. After learning that Tess is really sweet and he sees that she is not who he thinks she is he’s all in. They’ve hated each other for years. I loved seeing their relationship grow also love mafia romance. I was hooked beginning to end. Lots of twist and turns. I need book 3 asap!!!
April 18, 2025
This series just keeps getting better and better!! I adored the love-hate pull Tess and Benito had going on, add in the revenge plot and past traumas, and it really makes this story keep you on the edge of your seat. The drama in the last couple of chapters was so unexpected!! I was ready for the happy ending, not to be left in shock!😲 Bring on book 3🙌🏼
April 16, 2025
They always say there is a thin line between love and hate, and Gabriella's feelings toward Benito are just that, but she's not willing to admit it. She blames Benito for her best friend leaving town and being coerced into giving away something of herself that she wasn't ready to. But she can't fight her feelings, and when she learns the truth, she decides to open her heart. This series is fantastic!!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 31, 2025
This book made me gasp audibly so many times I think it did make people question what I was reading. And when I say gasp...I mean GASP! This book did not disappoint. You know how sometimes you get a second book and you think it's not as good as the first one. Not this one, I actually think this one out did the first one. There were twists, obviously not expected, and continuation given to where the first one left off. I won't get into too much detail because I don't want to spoil you so I will leave it at that but what I can tell you is this book most likely will be one of my top reads for this year.
Thank you to Victoria Holliday for sending me an ARC to read and review. And again, apologies for the delay on getting this review up sooner.
Thank you to Victoria Holliday for sending me an ARC to read and review. And again, apologies for the delay on getting this review up sooner.
June 24, 2025
OH my GOD!!!! Words can’t express how much I loved this book!!
There’s not a dull moment reading this, there’s violence, murder, abduction, stalking, smut, and MORE!!!
This is a real enemies to lovers, she hates him with her whole entire being. It’s written so well, I constantly wanted to know what was happening next. I need the third book asap please!!!😭
I was absolutely ravenous for this book, and towards the end? Jaysus! I got whiplash from all the twists and turns the story took! I LOVED IT.
“Do you still hate me, Contessa?”
“With every fibre of my being, Bernadi.”
There’s not a dull moment reading this, there’s violence, murder, abduction, stalking, smut, and MORE!!!
This is a real enemies to lovers, she hates him with her whole entire being. It’s written so well, I constantly wanted to know what was happening next. I need the third book asap please!!!😭
I was absolutely ravenous for this book, and towards the end? Jaysus! I got whiplash from all the twists and turns the story took! I LOVED IT.
“Do you still hate me, Contessa?”
“With every fibre of my being, Bernadi.”
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