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Hidden Deceit

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"I’d wanted her to take the initiative to kiss me, lower those walls of hers a little, but seeing her offering herself to me, being alone with her and knowing there would be no interruptions, my patience had run out."

Hidden Deceit is book #1 of the Genovese Empire series, and it is an arranged marriage story.

Caitlin Moore
Living in Chicago had never been a problem. Sure, I heard all the rumours about the different crime families, but that was a world away from me. Or so I thought.
I was a blissfully naïve woman channeling her way through a part-time job and college classes.
One night that all changed when I picked the wrong dark alley to walk down and came face to face with my fate.
Dominic Genovese was a dangerous man, and now he had his sights set on me.

Dominic Genovese
Being the heir to the Chicago-born Italian crime family was a responsibility I took serious.
My family were the most feared in the city, but lately, the Russians seem to be forgetting that and think they can do whatever they want on my streets.
When little Caitlin crosses my path, neither of us are prepared for the whirlwind of secrets and mistruths that will come with it.
The second my eyes land on hers, she's mine. She just doesn't know it yet.

Will Dominic be able to handle all the secrets that come with his new bride?
More importantly, will Caitlin run when she finds out how deep down the rabbit hole she has fallen?
Or will they rise above the tide of secrets and face them together?

476 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2025

1 person is currently reading
6 people want to read

About the author

Lizzie James

46 books324 followers
Lizzie James is a USAT Bestselling Author that lives in the valleys of South Wales, UK with her family.

Working full time for her local authority keeps her busy but her free time is spent in her favourite pursuits of writing, reading, listening to music and travelling.

She is passionate about her writing and cooperatively works with a team of authors to support her fellow indie authors.

She writes contemporary romance and MM romances. Don't ask her to pick a favourite genre because she will read anything.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Meg Hall.
100 reviews1 follower
November 27, 2025
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC copy of Hidden Deceit, which was particularly exciting as this was my very first mafia romance read—and I believe it was Lizzie James's first venture into the genre as well. I really enjoyed the book; it was fast-paced, which kept the story moving without any sluggish lulls. The narrative switches between the perspectives of Caitlin and Dominic, providing great insight into both characters.

The story begins with Caitlin in Chicago. After work, she accidentally walks down a dark alley, witnesses a mafia hit, and hides behind a bin. Suddenly, Dominic appears, pulling a gun and forcing her into his car. She's terrified, thinking she's going to die, only to arrive at his house and find her adopted parents there. It is revealed that her parents are part of the Irish Mafia (a fact humorously tied to her love of potatoes), and that Dominic belongs to the Italian Mafia. They have an arranged marriage to unite the two families against the encroaching Russian Mafia.

A major complication is Caitlin's true lineage: she is the lost daughter of the Russian Don. Her mother had an affair with a member of the Irish Mafia, ran away with the child (Caitlin), and entrusted her to her boyfriend's brother, who became Caitlin’s adopted father. Therefore, she was raised by her biological uncle and aunt, but carries Russian blood, which is a significant issue since the Italian and Irish families despise the Russians. Caitlin had absolutely no idea about any of this; her parents had kept their mafia connections completely secret. Dominic, on the other hand, was well aware of her identity when he found her, having just been told to choose a wife from a list that included her picture.

Dominic is controlling, which is common in the mafia romance genre, but I appreciated that he showed twisted care for her. He insisted that his wife be treated with respect, demanding that if his men didn't respect Caitlin, they didn't respect him. However, it took speaking to his mother for Dominic to realize how truly blindsided Caitlin was—she was just an ordinary girl working and attending college. His mother ultimately tells him that since Caitlin will be his wife regardless, he must decide whether he wants her to be a happy partner or an enemy. Despite the lack of choice for poor Caitlin, they are both physically attracted to each other, which adds to the tension.

The Russian Mafia, led by Dmitry, views Caitlin as the missing "Princessa" and actively tries to steal her away. A frightening incident occurs at a party where a supposed Irish Mafia member calls her away, only to be revealed as a Russian operative who attempts to attack her, leading to a major shootout. This event makes Dominic fiercely protective. Dmitry, in particular, declares her his wife, adding intense drama to their situation. The spicy scenes were very hot, especially given Dominic’s reluctance to consummate their relationship until after the wedding, a tradition he respected, contrasting his past with other women. Caitlin, having only been in love once before, was nervous but found his commitment sweet.

The wedding is supposed to be a major unification of the two mafias, but Caitlin’s parents don't show up. Though initially upset with them for the secrecy, she had come to understand they were trying to protect her from the dangerous Russian Mafia, whose women are reportedly treated poorly. They believed the power of the Italian Mafia, with Dominic (the next Don) as her husband, would provide better security against Dmitry’s active threats. The mysterious absence of her parents is a major concern, and the book's ending—oh my gosh—I did not expect that conclusion! It makes me eager for the next book.

Overall, I really liked Hidden Deceit and I might have caught the bug for mafia romances, though I'm still figuring out the trope of subservient women and the inherent misogyny in the genre. I genuinely liked both Dominic and Caitlin. She never fully lost her spirit, pushing back against the expectation to simply be a submissive wife and insisting on returning to university. I also enjoyed the humorous moments and the friendships she forms with other members of the Italian Mafia. The abruptness of the ending was shocking, and I sincerely hope Lizzie James writes a sequel soon!
Profile Image for Whispered Secrets.
652 reviews22 followers
December 1, 2025
I was engrossed in the first chapter probably the first few pages. Caitlin? She is normal girl attending college and living her life independently of drama or is she? That’s the life she thinks she has but honestly she’s so wrapped up in mafia life she didn’t even know it and she was unable to escape it. Even though her birth mother gave her life to make it happen. Caitlin had no idea that when she walked down that deserted alley her life would change in an instant. Lies, betrayal and secrets would be unleashed. The man who “kidnapped her…well that’s a story for you to read yourself.
Dominic was living life as the next in line to be Don of the Italian Mafia when his father called him into his office and explained that it was time for him to take a wife. His first thought was I’ll do my duty but no one woman will ever hold me down. He didn’t intend to have a marriage of love or happiness. He expected to marry a mafia princess and leave her home to raise the kids while he cont his Wiley ways as he saw fit…of coarse he would be discreet and she would need to be as well. It would be a marriage of convenience, a business transaction only. Until I was handed an envelope of a few women he was to choose from. The moment his eyes laid upon hers…she was his and his entire thought process changed. Then during a shoot down in a dark abandoned alley he found her, huddled in a ball next to the garbage cans…and both their worlds would be turned upside down. Man the mystery, the passion even the lies and deceit were on point. Everything was perfect…until it wasn’t…Now I have to wait for book 2! I’m not a happy camper about that ending Lizzie! How could you do this to me?! How heartless can you be? Okay you have one chance to fix my broken heart…I expect great things for them ALL in book 2. Not Dominic or Matteo they can burn in a fire for all I care…but the rest of coarse…
45 reviews
December 19, 2025
Hidden Deceit was a gripping read filled with secrets, emotional tension, and unexpected twists. The author does a great job creating an atmosphere of mystery, keeping me constantly questioning characters’ motives and wondering who could truly be trusted. The suspense builds steadily, making it hard to put the book down.

I really enjoyed the emotional depth of the story, especially how betrayal and trust are explored within personal relationships. The main character felt relatable, and her reactions to unfolding events made the story feel grounded despite the dramatic turns. The writing style is smooth and engaging, which makes the story flow well.

However, there were moments where certain reveals felt a bit predictable, and I wished some plot twists had been explored more deeply before being resolved. A few side characters also could have used more development to fully match the impact of the central conflict.

Still, Hidden Deceit delivers a compelling mix of drama and suspense. It’s an enjoyable read with strong emotional stakes, and I’d definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy stories centered on secrets, lies, and complicated relationships.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sam Oneill.
307 reviews23 followers
November 29, 2025
Caitlin - finished working and was heading home to what seemed like a normal day, however things took a turn she wasn't expecting while walking down a dark alley to get home.
Instead she witnessed a murder happen.

Dom - knew when he saw Caitlin's photo that she was his chosen arranged bride, little did he know that she would witness him shooting a spy.

Caitlin is handed over to Dom for an arranged marriage by her family. She has been kept in the dark about her who her family are.

This book has so many twists and turns with the Mafia.

This is the first book is this genre by this author and I can honestly say she has done an amazing job! This is one of my favourite reads of 2025!

This is a beautifully written Mafia Romance, one which caught me hook line and sinker.

The way this author has created this storyline and characters were brilliantly done!

It has tense but slow burn romance, which the build up was amazingly done.

This story does end on a cliffhanger, one which made me gasp and tear up! I can't wait for the next installment of this series.

This is the first novel of this authors I have read and I can hands down say it will not be the last.

I would highly recommend this author and her work!
Profile Image for MJ Hitchener.
25 reviews1 follower
November 29, 2025
Wow! Where do I start? For this to be your first Mafia book you have smash it!

It’s full of everything you want and expect in a mafia story! Suspense, tension, violence, romance, smut and everything in between.

I don’t think there are enough words to describe what I felt reading this. Did I binge read? Yes I absolutely did!

I think I melted right from the start and I very much want my own Dominic. To see the big dark mafia man who doesn’t do romance and feelings finally come alive when he meets Caitlin is actually so sweet. On top of that the whole ‘touch her and die’ vibe, it just makes him the perfect guy.

Caitlin with her multiple personalities, going from shy to strong little kitten makes me love her more and it’s the perfect balance.

Can I believe the ending?! NO, you’ve destroyed me! I’m hysterical and I need the next book NOW please!

Honestly though I beg you, please don’t leave me a blubbering mess for too long because I don’t know how long I can wait without knowing..

💜 Arranged Marriage
💜 Alphas In Charge
💜 Irish Bride
💜 Touch Her and Die
💜 Morally Grey
💜 Italian Mafia
Profile Image for marcusneedsanothershelf.
43 reviews
November 30, 2025
​🛑 You Guys. Stop Everything. (Hidden Deceit Review) 🛑
​My Rating: Five out of Five Stars (Duh).

​Okay, I just finished reading Hidden Deceit and I have to talk about it. This book has consumed my thoughts all week, and I'm not even mad about it.

​Knowing this is Lizzie James’s first step into the Mafia subgenre makes this even more impressive. She absolutely nailed the dynamic between Caitlin and Dominic. That whole forbidden push and pull thing? It was fantastic. He's the ruthless Mafia boss who claimed her instantly, and she's trying to hold onto her sanity. The tension is seriously palpable, it’s dominant, dangerous, and makes the chemistry between them totally explosive.

​But I need to prepare you for the end. That cliffhanger? It's not just a little tease; it is genuinely BRUTAL. I was sitting here, totally reeling and staring blankly at my phone when it was over. I immediately needed to know what happens next.

​If you love a super intense, high-stakes romance that keeps you hooked from start to finish, you absolutely need to add this to your list!
107 reviews5 followers
November 30, 2025
The premise of the story was good, with Caitlin being shielded from her mafia heritage but then forced into an arranged marriage. It started off exciting with Caitlin and Dominic's meeting.

There were glimpses of parts of the story that I would have loved to seen explored more. The main action only started in the last 5% of the book and ended on a cliffhanger.

I do believe this will be done in the next book, however I feel it would have been more enjoyable to be condensed into one book.

Whilst it was enjoyable overall, I personally feel parts of the story, especially the romance side, felt repetitive throughout.

I liked Dominic as a MMC and like that he was possessive buy also caring and reassuring as well. He knew what he wanted and stuck by it regardless of the consequences.

This was a good introduction for Lizzie James into the mafia romance genre. It will be interesting to see how the story unfolds in book 2.

Thank you to Lizzie James for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3,349 reviews70 followers
November 30, 2025
Hidden Deceit ( The Genovese Empire Series Book 1 ) Oh My Gosh Guys !!!! This is my first read by Lizzie James and most definitely will not be my last !!! I mean really Where The Heck have I been ? Why is this the first time I’ve actually read one of her fantastic books ? Hidden Deceit really was and is everything I ever could have asked for . Dark Mafia -Crime Families, Arranged Marriages , intriguing and suspenseful, secrets , revelations, revenge , all the steamy and emotional charged moments that will have you reeling with so many different emotions. Characters and relationships filled with so many different layers and complexities. Caitlin and Dominic may have been complete opposites but phew , when they were together sparks 🔥 literally flew in every sense of the word . The connection they shared and the chemistry between them , I was on the edge of my seat the whole way through and I couldn’t devour their story fast enough.
Profile Image for Kirsty.
34 reviews
December 2, 2025
* Arc Review *

First of all, thankyou for giving me the chance to arc read this, secondly... HELLO DOMINIC!!
If you love forced marriage, dominating MMC's, mafia romance, dark and delish spice... here you go >:)

Dom & Caitlins story is an total whirlwind of highs and lows - especially when Caitlins true lineage is revealed.
Dominic is your typical dominating, possessive male... with a respectful side (such as waiting till after marriage to... you know...)
Even though she is 'forced' to marry Dom, she is treat like a QUEEN... the ye'old, if you don't respect her then you don't respect me.

I can't wait for the next book, it is going to be insane.
I'd never heard of the author before this, but dayum, I need more Lizzie!! Excuse me with that ending?

p.s. kinda wanna take a walk down a dark alley... kinda don't?

Profile Image for Caithlin.
127 reviews
November 21, 2025
This book is kinda fast paced but that also means you end up binging the whole book quickly. Caitlin just had her whole life turned upside down when Dominic decided he would claim her as his. You might think that he should just hurry up and marry her, but he wants to make her comfortable with him. He actually wants her to want to be there with him. Dimitri's trying to get Caitlin for himself because of some supposed claim he thinks he has. This book isn't really dark, but it gets darker at the end.. I have a strong feeling book 2 will be a lot darker and I can't wait for it. Lizzie James is trying to make us all crazy with that cliffhanger and ending! It will have you holding your breath waiting for book 2.
29 reviews1 follower
November 30, 2025
Mafia Romance 🔫❤️
Arranged Marriage 💍
Enemies to lovers

🌶🌶🌶🌶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I loved how fast paced the book was, keeping the tension going throughout. I loved the slightly different take on Mafia and arranged marriage as they all tend to be similar and it really worked!!

Caitlin and Dominic are quite literally thrown into an arranged marriage, with families fueding over where Caitlins true lineage lies and who is truly her "husband" The tension between them grows and you can see the relationship building quickly but with lots of outside influence who gets the woman....

Erm lizzie lizzie lizzie I need book 2 yesterday 🤣
5,079 reviews28 followers
January 30, 2026
Caitlin was living her life going to college, renting an apartment near campus, walking to and from nothing out of the ordinary. One day not paying much attention to her surroundings she catches the attention of Dominic Genovese when she sees something she should not have. He is next in line to lead the Genovese Mafia, he does not know her lineage. She has ties to the Russian mafia and an Irish godfather, she will make him a good match.

There is a lot more going on than an arranged marriage, plenty of danger and secrets to be revealed and ends on a cliffhanger.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kelly Riddles.
7 reviews
November 24, 2025
Omg I couldn't put this book down. A story of love at first sight for the heir to the Italian Mob. Just a picture was all it took. Unfortunately 2 other Mob families, Irish and Russian are looking for Caitlin. Originally she is petrified for her life, but Dominic is the only one she can trust.
Lizzie has written this book so well, so many twists and turns you don't know who Caitlin and Dominic can trust. This story has everything from Mobs, love, sex, fantasies, guns and an obsessed and protective lover.
I can't wait for the next book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Gemma Osment.
275 reviews
December 12, 2025
This is the 1st book I've read from this author and it won't be the last..
Oh caitlyn and dom,I absolutely love them..caitlyn is your everyday girl just leaving work when she comes across something she shouldn't have seen,but dom knows who she is due to her being one of the photos that he had to chose a bride from.
There are twists and turns that u won't see coming,it is a slow burn but you follow these characters and watch them grow as the book goes on..
It does end on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to read it
Profile Image for Johanna.
1,890 reviews41 followers
January 2, 2026
This is Book 1 of The Genovese Empire series. A great start and I cannot wait to read more.

The plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. The characters were what drove the story and they were so very dark and possessive and complex and complicated and perfect together. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jackie.
363 reviews5 followers
November 28, 2025
What a read. Lizzie James for your 1st maffia book it's great.
when catlin witness's a crime,(wrong place wrong time) she is taken to the Genovese household where Dominic takes charge. Little does she know about her past or who she really is. Dominic is 2nd in command, but when he announces he is to wed Catlin all hell breaks lose. It's a gripping story with plenty of action in both departments.
Profile Image for Angi.
1,349 reviews
November 8, 2025
What a way to kick off this series! Caitlin and Dominic what a dynamic pairing. They’re are surrounded by secrets and lies. The chemistry that these two have is palpable. There is action and twists in every page. Can’t wait for book 2 and to see what surprises Lizzie James has for us next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jenia Tortora.
1,235 reviews3 followers
November 23, 2025
Caitlin was living her life when things changed after her encounter with Dominic. Chemistry is off the charts but the twists and turns are just as good. It’s a great story that will suck you in from start to finish.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rachael Masterson.
4 reviews3 followers
December 1, 2025
What can I say but wow Lizzie you give me everything I love in Mafia romances !! Excellent writing and i couldn’t put it down the book hang over is real for this one and I might just have to reread it this book gives you everything you want out of a Mafia romance and even more and I can’t recommend it enough
Profile Image for Merry Jelks-Emmanuel.
13.5k reviews155 followers
December 30, 2025
This captivating story grabs you and takes you along a thrilling journey with Caitlin and Dominic. It is an arranged marriage that turns Caitlins life sideways and had me all caught up in the twists and turns that this story takes.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
12.2k reviews75 followers
December 31, 2025
The author has given us a heart pounding story that pulls us into the lives of Dominic and Caitlin. The intriguing story keeps us turning the pages with an arranged marriage, secrets, connection, danger and steam.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for brenda hurley.
1,387 reviews7 followers
November 5, 2025
I enjoyed read this book I couldn’t put it down turning the pages. I thought the story was interesting and was well written that kept you reading. I can’t wait to read from Lizzie James. I recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
309 reviews2 followers
November 18, 2025
Oh my gosh !!
This was such a good one.
I mean mafia romance is my jam.
Lately, I’ve been in a reading slump.
But, this one 😳😮‍💨it was HOT.
I love the instant possessiveness and the immediate obsession.
I cannot wait for the next one.
😩😩😩

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
84 reviews1 follower
November 29, 2025
Once I started this book I couldn’t put it down! This book is fast paced, but well thought out. The characters have a good built. There’s twist and turns. It ends on a huge cliff hanger and I can’t wait for book two. I NEED to know what happens. You’ll absolutely love Caitlin and Dominic.
20 reviews
December 31, 2025
Brilliant book, very good storyline and very well written.

Furious at the cliffhanger 😂 cannot wait to read the next book!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Shannon Godwin.
3,050 reviews31 followers
November 11, 2025
A great start to a new series! This book is filled with deceit, lies and twists. A great mafia book that you will not want to put down. I can’t wait for the next book to see where she takes us.
Profile Image for Megan Nicholl.
29 reviews
November 30, 2025
What a book for your first mafia romance! The tension between Dominic and Caitlin just kept me hooked. Cannot wait to read book 2!
Profile Image for Nate.
24.2k reviews19 followers
January 19, 2026
Hidden deceit was Dominic and Caitlin’s story. It was an intriguing and intense read for me. Am voluntarily leaving this review.
Profile Image for Janene .
105 reviews7 followers
November 29, 2025
Brilliant read, the relationship between Dominic and Caitlin was great to read, the tension between the 2 kept you wanting to read more. The dynamic between Dominic and his trusted me I loved. Nico 😍 what a story I need book 2 now 😂
19 reviews
November 29, 2025
I love caitlin and Dominic, I could not put this book down! It’s fast-paced with well-developed characters and plenty of twists and turns. I needed to know what happens next. The ending has a major cliffhanger, and now I’m counting the days until book two.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews

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