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The Wicked Trilogy #1
The Wicked
Rebecca Johnpee bursts onto the dark romance scene with
The Wicked
―where a mafia and heist romance collide in a scorchingly intense and unforgettable tale.
Elio
They call me “The Wicked.”
I’ve earned that name with blood, silence, and the weight of every secret I carry.
As head of the Marino Family, nothing slips past me. Not lies. Not weakness. Not fear.
But when she enters my world…everything tilts.
Zahra
I’m dangerous—and I’ve had to be.
I grew up with men who treated bullets like sugar cubes.
I’ve risen from the streets to create the most notorious gang of thieves in the country. But after a job goes wrong, my crew and I are held captive by The Wicked, and I’ll do just about anything to take advantage of it. Even if it means working with The Wicked and pulling off the biggest heist I’ve ever dreamed of.
I’m dancing with the devil, and the cost might be my body–my very soul.
But I’m willing to pay the price if it means I get him…
Elio
They call me “The Wicked.”
I’ve earned that name with blood, silence, and the weight of every secret I carry.
As head of the Marino Family, nothing slips past me. Not lies. Not weakness. Not fear.
But when she enters my world…everything tilts.
Zahra
I’m dangerous—and I’ve had to be.
I grew up with men who treated bullets like sugar cubes.
I’ve risen from the streets to create the most notorious gang of thieves in the country. But after a job goes wrong, my crew and I are held captive by The Wicked, and I’ll do just about anything to take advantage of it. Even if it means working with The Wicked and pulling off the biggest heist I’ve ever dreamed of.
I’m dancing with the devil, and the cost might be my body–my very soul.
But I’m willing to pay the price if it means I get him…
512 pages, Paperback
First published November 25, 2025
About the author
Rebecca Johnpee
7 books358 followersRebecca Johnpee has been daydreaming epic, too-good-to-be-true scenarios since she discovered the magic in imagination. Once she found the art of putting those vivid scenarios on paper, she set out to make sure her characters found a home in the heart of readers. Today, she writes romance across multiple genres, letting whichever story calls to her lead the way. When she’s not busy crafting new worlds, Rebecca is planning her next adventure to island countries, where she can indulge in her love for the ocean, meet new people, and immerse herself in different cultures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 758 reviews
January 19, 2026
should have stayed on wattpad.
November 25, 2025
Reading this book gives off the same satisfaction as chugging water at 3am. This scratched an itch so far back in my brain and the only way I’ll ever get anything close to the same feeling is with book two in my hands. I NEED IT REBECCA 👹👹
Will never get over the fact that there was not a single dry page for me.
Each character was solid. The plot and the pacing was chefs kiss. I could not have asked for anything more. The difference in povs between zahra and Elio 😫😫 I’m genuinely licking my fingers. This was a ten course meal and I was not ashamed to dig in with my bare hands! 🙏
The way I actually cried fat wet tears like five or six times during the book 😭🤚 what was this madness!! I wasn’t prepared and I’m litch not ready to say goodbye bc what do you meannnnn it over. What do you mean I turned the last page of this book and I don’t have anything more!!! What do you mean this book isn’t even out yet 😫😫😫
Elio is the most entertaining pov to be in. Not always in a happy way 🤚 but boi does he give the best inner monologue.
This guys, THIS is what I’ve been asking for the entire time. Like holy grail type shit. The enemies are CONCRETE ENEMIES and the morally grey mmc is ACTUALLY morally grey. Not some dark mysterious type that uses morally grey as a gimmick when actually he’s a good guy underneath it all, no, Elio is truly so messed in the head it’s terrifying and I could not look away. I don’t even want to. But his story and how he became who he is 😭😭😭😭😭 just stop it. The way I’m DREADING book 2 you don’t understandddddd.
Zahra, you little shit. The way I am so conflicted i genuinely don’t have words. I love her despite it all. She is exactly what I needed to see in an fmc. Like she is the prime example of a complex, morally grey and highly cunning fmc. I love to see it.
The writing takes a second to get used to but once you carry on it just clicks. There’s a reason why the writing is how it is. It makes sense to their character and how it’s the writers stylistic choice.
All in all, I’m gna be thinking about this one for a veryyyy long time that’s for sure.
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Tor Bramble for the ARC! ♥︎
Will never get over the fact that there was not a single dry page for me.
Each character was solid. The plot and the pacing was chefs kiss. I could not have asked for anything more. The difference in povs between zahra and Elio 😫😫 I’m genuinely licking my fingers. This was a ten course meal and I was not ashamed to dig in with my bare hands! 🙏
The way I actually cried fat wet tears like five or six times during the book 😭🤚 what was this madness!! I wasn’t prepared and I’m litch not ready to say goodbye bc what do you meannnnn it over. What do you mean I turned the last page of this book and I don’t have anything more!!! What do you mean this book isn’t even out yet 😫😫😫
Elio is the most entertaining pov to be in. Not always in a happy way 🤚 but boi does he give the best inner monologue.
This guys, THIS is what I’ve been asking for the entire time. Like holy grail type shit. The enemies are CONCRETE ENEMIES and the morally grey mmc is ACTUALLY morally grey. Not some dark mysterious type that uses morally grey as a gimmick when actually he’s a good guy underneath it all, no, Elio is truly so messed in the head it’s terrifying and I could not look away. I don’t even want to. But his story and how he became who he is 😭😭😭😭😭 just stop it. The way I’m DREADING book 2 you don’t understandddddd.
Zahra, you little shit. The way I am so conflicted i genuinely don’t have words. I love her despite it all. She is exactly what I needed to see in an fmc. Like she is the prime example of a complex, morally grey and highly cunning fmc. I love to see it.
The writing takes a second to get used to but once you carry on it just clicks. There’s a reason why the writing is how it is. It makes sense to their character and how it’s the writers stylistic choice.
All in all, I’m gna be thinking about this one for a veryyyy long time that’s for sure.
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Tor Bramble for the ARC! ♥︎
May 19, 2026
⭐️ 4.25 ⭐️ When you dance with the devil, expect the cost to be more than what you bargained for.
I first must admit that I am not a dark mafia romance reader so I have nothing to compare this to. I tried a book once and it was not to my liking so I haven't read anything close to this genre ever again..until I came across The Wicked on NetGalley and it peaked my interest because it had a fair amount of very positive reviews and ratings. I was surprised that a book as such was featured on my beloved BOTM (its not their usual), so that got me even more curious...so here I was approved for an ALC and let me tell you friends, this book EXCEEDED my expectations. The narration was FIRE. I devoured it, I lost track of time and ended up listening to the first 70% in one sitting. This book is full of revenge, a crazy found family, a rock-solid heist (which is the entire plot) two morally gray characters that despise each-other yet are so magnetic when together and the whole story is loaded with danger, tension, blackmail! Just overall really high stakes and characters that are a total smoke-show.
Elio is the king of the mafia kings. He's called 'The Wicked' and owns that title through and through. He is the head of the Marino family and nothing slips past him. He has no heart, no feelings and he's earned his name in cold blood. He is power, silence and control until Zahra enters his world and has the AUDACITY to steal from him. He catches her but makes her and her gang work for him. He hates her but as she challenges him, their attraction grows and tension just escalates between the players.
Elio, initially was a very complicated character to understand. There is so much character depth to him and as the story moves forward, we learn why he is the way he is and you can't help but find your self completely enamored with him. His arc blew me away with all the flashbacks scenes of his past, his childhood, his parents. Not only he had character depth, there is emotional depth and a great depiction of mental health representation in this book--something I did not expect a mafia/romance book to have. Although the POVs alternate, I felt we learned a lot about his side of things--the intimate details, the silent nods, the silent stares. Everything about his character was moody and broody and hot. HES 100% OBSESSIVE and EMOTIONALLY DAMAGED. Marcio Catalano's voice is HEAVEN. OMG HEAVEN! SMOOTH + SEDUCTIVE, VELVETY! He's like La Maison du Chocolat ganache to my ears!!!!!
Zahra is street raised gang leader. She was forced into sex labor at age 16 and has lived a dangerous life since then. She escaped her past, formed a bulletproof gang and unbreakable loyalty, so bullets, knifes and danger really mean nothing to her as she loves to dance around the devil. She is cunning, ruthless and very manipulative. She also doesn't take Elios shit and gives it twice as hard back to him. Their TENSION was killing me. Jaclyn Kelso rhythm and tone was AMAZING. She's had so much variation and distinctiveness that it felt like multiple people were reading the lines! I was so impressed how well handled all the spicy scenes were.. those soft moans, the soft sounds, the whispers. Honestly, I'd just listen to this if you wanted an elevated experience!!
The Wicked reminded me so much of the 2000's peak era for stylish heist movies. Slick, dark and intense, the action scenes were jam packed with criminal energy, high stakes and a bit of a gangster feel to them. I thought of The Italian Job, which is my all-time favorite heist movie because it had a very satisfying revenge-heist structure. The Wicked kind of fell in the same category for me. In the story the entire heist/plot revolves around a painting of dog that ties to criminal secrets and wealth. Since Elio forces Zahra to work for him, the crew becomes entangled in Elio's criminal empire with the heist turning violent and full of schemes.
OK, I am a total goner for this story. JUST LISTEN TO IT!
Narrator: Jaclyn Kelso, Marcio Catalano
Duration: 14 hours 45 minutes
Speed: 1.5x
Many thanks to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio and the author, Rebecca Johnpee for an ALC.
Published: November 25, 2025
I first must admit that I am not a dark mafia romance reader so I have nothing to compare this to. I tried a book once and it was not to my liking so I haven't read anything close to this genre ever again..until I came across The Wicked on NetGalley and it peaked my interest because it had a fair amount of very positive reviews and ratings. I was surprised that a book as such was featured on my beloved BOTM (its not their usual), so that got me even more curious...so here I was approved for an ALC and let me tell you friends, this book EXCEEDED my expectations. The narration was FIRE. I devoured it, I lost track of time and ended up listening to the first 70% in one sitting. This book is full of revenge, a crazy found family, a rock-solid heist (which is the entire plot) two morally gray characters that despise each-other yet are so magnetic when together and the whole story is loaded with danger, tension, blackmail! Just overall really high stakes and characters that are a total smoke-show.
Elio is the king of the mafia kings. He's called 'The Wicked' and owns that title through and through. He is the head of the Marino family and nothing slips past him. He has no heart, no feelings and he's earned his name in cold blood. He is power, silence and control until Zahra enters his world and has the AUDACITY to steal from him. He catches her but makes her and her gang work for him. He hates her but as she challenges him, their attraction grows and tension just escalates between the players.
Elio, initially was a very complicated character to understand. There is so much character depth to him and as the story moves forward, we learn why he is the way he is and you can't help but find your self completely enamored with him. His arc blew me away with all the flashbacks scenes of his past, his childhood, his parents. Not only he had character depth, there is emotional depth and a great depiction of mental health representation in this book--something I did not expect a mafia/romance book to have. Although the POVs alternate, I felt we learned a lot about his side of things--the intimate details, the silent nods, the silent stares. Everything about his character was moody and broody and hot. HES 100% OBSESSIVE and EMOTIONALLY DAMAGED. Marcio Catalano's voice is HEAVEN. OMG HEAVEN! SMOOTH + SEDUCTIVE, VELVETY! He's like La Maison du Chocolat ganache to my ears!!!!!
Zahra is street raised gang leader. She was forced into sex labor at age 16 and has lived a dangerous life since then. She escaped her past, formed a bulletproof gang and unbreakable loyalty, so bullets, knifes and danger really mean nothing to her as she loves to dance around the devil. She is cunning, ruthless and very manipulative. She also doesn't take Elios shit and gives it twice as hard back to him. Their TENSION was killing me. Jaclyn Kelso rhythm and tone was AMAZING. She's had so much variation and distinctiveness that it felt like multiple people were reading the lines! I was so impressed how well handled all the spicy scenes were.. those soft moans, the soft sounds, the whispers. Honestly, I'd just listen to this if you wanted an elevated experience!!
The Wicked reminded me so much of the 2000's peak era for stylish heist movies. Slick, dark and intense, the action scenes were jam packed with criminal energy, high stakes and a bit of a gangster feel to them. I thought of The Italian Job, which is my all-time favorite heist movie because it had a very satisfying revenge-heist structure. The Wicked kind of fell in the same category for me. In the story the entire heist/plot revolves around a painting of dog that ties to criminal secrets and wealth. Since Elio forces Zahra to work for him, the crew becomes entangled in Elio's criminal empire with the heist turning violent and full of schemes.
OK, I am a total goner for this story. JUST LISTEN TO IT!
Narrator: Jaclyn Kelso, Marcio Catalano
Duration: 14 hours 45 minutes
Speed: 1.5x
Many thanks to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio and the author, Rebecca Johnpee for an ALC.
Published: November 25, 2025
March 22, 2026
4 Stars
Admittedly, dark romance is not my usual go-to, but I’m trying to grow as a reader so I thought, why not? Ha!
Right off the bat, this grabbed me by its sharp claws and propelled me down the path of Street - a gang of skilled thieves who dared to rob the infamously depraved Elio Marino. Unfortunately, they get caught, and now, Zahra and her team must work for the fearsome man known as The Wicked.
Elio is contained control personified, an unbreachable deadly lone wolf. He has a very personal plan of justice and revenge in play, and when Street falls into his lap, he sees an opportunity to use them to his own ends instead of killing them. Never for a second does he think the off kilter Zahra would get under his skin, but soon she becomes a life altering irritating itch he can’t scratch. Elio knows he would be far better off if she were dead but nonetheless, he literally can’t pull the trigger as much as his instincts tell him to do so.
Zahra in turn is the complete opposite. Brash, impulsive, she’s an unpredictable opportunist, and she refuses to be beholden to Elio any longer than she needs to. She’s got her own agenda, but begrudgingly admits that the elusive man evokes feelings and desires that she thought were permanently destroyed.
Despite the roller coaster of emotions, despite the flaws of these characters (and they do have many and neither is very likable at this stage) I couldn’t look away, especially from the dangerous enigmatic sexy Elio. The pace is fast, and the action is frequent, which contrasts against the very slow reveals of both Elio and Zahra as they fight, give in, resist, succumb, flee, chase, and surrender to their heady ill advised attraction. It goes beyond their rational reasoning, neither wanting to give up control, neither wanting to be vulnerable.
So yes, this is dark. It’s everything you’d expect a mafia story to contain. Trauma, abuse, depravity, murder, violence, torture. It also has a heist, found family, kidnappings, banter, shoot outs and car chases, a treasure hunt, betrayals, and some oh so nice spice. Despite the massive distrust on both sides, Elio and Zahra admit they can’t stay away from each other no matter how much they desperately want to, no matter that they are always at constant odds with each other.
Overall, know that this first installment barely scratches the surface on their pasts, their motivations, and their ultimate end game. So many secrets abound, and this ends at an expected impasse and cliffhanger. Thankfully, the rest of this trilogy should drop this year, and I look forward to seeing what comes next!!
Thank you to the author and Bramble of Tor Publishing Group via NetGalley for a copy to review honestly
Admittedly, dark romance is not my usual go-to, but I’m trying to grow as a reader so I thought, why not? Ha!
Right off the bat, this grabbed me by its sharp claws and propelled me down the path of Street - a gang of skilled thieves who dared to rob the infamously depraved Elio Marino. Unfortunately, they get caught, and now, Zahra and her team must work for the fearsome man known as The Wicked.
Elio is contained control personified, an unbreachable deadly lone wolf. He has a very personal plan of justice and revenge in play, and when Street falls into his lap, he sees an opportunity to use them to his own ends instead of killing them. Never for a second does he think the off kilter Zahra would get under his skin, but soon she becomes a life altering irritating itch he can’t scratch. Elio knows he would be far better off if she were dead but nonetheless, he literally can’t pull the trigger as much as his instincts tell him to do so.
Zahra in turn is the complete opposite. Brash, impulsive, she’s an unpredictable opportunist, and she refuses to be beholden to Elio any longer than she needs to. She’s got her own agenda, but begrudgingly admits that the elusive man evokes feelings and desires that she thought were permanently destroyed.
Despite the roller coaster of emotions, despite the flaws of these characters (and they do have many and neither is very likable at this stage) I couldn’t look away, especially from the dangerous enigmatic sexy Elio. The pace is fast, and the action is frequent, which contrasts against the very slow reveals of both Elio and Zahra as they fight, give in, resist, succumb, flee, chase, and surrender to their heady ill advised attraction. It goes beyond their rational reasoning, neither wanting to give up control, neither wanting to be vulnerable.
So yes, this is dark. It’s everything you’d expect a mafia story to contain. Trauma, abuse, depravity, murder, violence, torture. It also has a heist, found family, kidnappings, banter, shoot outs and car chases, a treasure hunt, betrayals, and some oh so nice spice. Despite the massive distrust on both sides, Elio and Zahra admit they can’t stay away from each other no matter how much they desperately want to, no matter that they are always at constant odds with each other.
Overall, know that this first installment barely scratches the surface on their pasts, their motivations, and their ultimate end game. So many secrets abound, and this ends at an expected impasse and cliffhanger. Thankfully, the rest of this trilogy should drop this year, and I look forward to seeing what comes next!!
Thank you to the author and Bramble of Tor Publishing Group via NetGalley for a copy to review honestly
January 11, 2026
... I have such mixed feelings about this?
give me a moment
give me a moment
February 19, 2026
the way I knew this book was giving wattpad energy I clocked it so hard lol a girl never forgets her roots
November 14, 2025
This dark mafia romance was outstanding!! It had a great storyline, perfect tropes and I found it to be extremely entertaining! This is the first book in the trilogy and I am so excited to read the next one this author comes out with! It was very well written, picturesque, captivating and well organized. This book is a true enemies to lovers, then possibly enemies again?! It has a Mafia King that you can’t help but fall for. A strong female main character that I really loved! All the family secrets that you end up finding out was wild! The found family trope was a favorite of mine.
This book has banter, tension, and some spicy scenes! The balanced perspectives really stood out to me. The slow burn romance in this novel had me hooked! This book does leave on a cliffhanger, with you wanting more! I was entertained from beginning to end! Be sure to read the content warnings prior to reading the book. I give this a solid 4 out of 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Rebecca Johnpee and Tor Publishing Group | Bramble for the eARC of this incredible book! All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is set to be released on November 25, 2025!
This book has banter, tension, and some spicy scenes! The balanced perspectives really stood out to me. The slow burn romance in this novel had me hooked! This book does leave on a cliffhanger, with you wanting more! I was entertained from beginning to end! Be sure to read the content warnings prior to reading the book. I give this a solid 4 out of 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Rebecca Johnpee and Tor Publishing Group | Bramble for the eARC of this incredible book! All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is set to be released on November 25, 2025!
January 4, 2026
DNF at 53%. Holy moly. How is my first read of 2026 a DNF?
January 3, 2025
I already know this is going to be my bestest 5★ read ever. This book owns my fucking soul.
Will update the review when the book comes out.
Will update the review when the book comes out.
December 12, 2025
I got this book from my Book of the Month subscription. It was listed as extra spicy and gruesome. Instead it was all chaos and no development. Plot holes all over the place. The female lead was unlikeable and spoke like a child. The male lead was boring, I read over 400 pages and can’t even describe him well enough. If you’re looking for a spicy mafia read this is not for you.
Did Not Finish
January 2, 2026dnf 6%
i hate my fucking life.
2026 is definitely not my year.
EVERYONE IS INSUFFERABLE. ESPECIALLY THE FMC.
DEATH ROW
NO STARS
i hate my fucking life.
2026 is definitely not my year.
EVERYONE IS INSUFFERABLE. ESPECIALLY THE FMC.
DEATH ROW
NO STARS
July 19, 2025
when the enemies ENEMIES
December 1, 2025
this was absolutely fuckin perfection
December 8, 2025
Whoever said this book was like the sweetest oblivion needs their phone privileges taken and they need death row
May 18, 2026
The Wicked by Rebecca Johnpee is a Mafia romance that I didn't expect. I've always felt like Mafia romances are very predictable with the same type of MMC and kidnapped FMC who needs rescuing (no hate, I still love them). That was not the case for this book.
Elio is the Mafia Kingpin with a unique personality. There is heavy mental health representation in this book, and I loved that aspect and change in typical storyline. While I don't want to spoil anything, I will say that what you expect from a Book Mafia King is not exactly what you get with Elio. At the beginning, it took me bit to adjust and there were parts of the book that gave me the cringe face but as you understand Elio more, it all makes sense and his mannerisms end up being fascinating (Mental Health Rep is one of my favorite tropes).
As for Zahra, she is truly playing her own game and keeping everyone guessing and on their toes. If you like FMC's that like to be rescued and follow the lead of a strong man, that is not what you will find here. Zahra is witty, chaotic, and has more secrets than the government.
For me, this was a book that grew on me. I was very conflicted with my feelings the first 50% of the book and wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it or not. As the book went on and the storyline and Elio's uniqueness unfolded, I started to love it more and more. I also had the opportunity to immersive read while listening to the audiobook narrated by Jaclyn Kelso and Marcio Catalano (both narrators I had never listened to before). While they delivered a solid performance, it was not the voice I was imagining in my head at first, so it took a bit to adjust (that is a me problem, not a narrator problem).
Overall opinion: I enjoyed the storyline and will continue to book 2. I think in order to enjoy this mafia romance, you have to be in the mood for something different. If you go in expecting a hardened and gruff Mafia Kingpin, you might struggle like I did at first. That being said, if you are like me and find mental health rep relatable and fascinating, you might enjoy this read.
Elio is the Mafia Kingpin with a unique personality. There is heavy mental health representation in this book, and I loved that aspect and change in typical storyline. While I don't want to spoil anything, I will say that what you expect from a Book Mafia King is not exactly what you get with Elio. At the beginning, it took me bit to adjust and there were parts of the book that gave me the cringe face but as you understand Elio more, it all makes sense and his mannerisms end up being fascinating (Mental Health Rep is one of my favorite tropes).
As for Zahra, she is truly playing her own game and keeping everyone guessing and on their toes. If you like FMC's that like to be rescued and follow the lead of a strong man, that is not what you will find here. Zahra is witty, chaotic, and has more secrets than the government.
For me, this was a book that grew on me. I was very conflicted with my feelings the first 50% of the book and wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it or not. As the book went on and the storyline and Elio's uniqueness unfolded, I started to love it more and more. I also had the opportunity to immersive read while listening to the audiobook narrated by Jaclyn Kelso and Marcio Catalano (both narrators I had never listened to before). While they delivered a solid performance, it was not the voice I was imagining in my head at first, so it took a bit to adjust (that is a me problem, not a narrator problem).
Overall opinion: I enjoyed the storyline and will continue to book 2. I think in order to enjoy this mafia romance, you have to be in the mood for something different. If you go in expecting a hardened and gruff Mafia Kingpin, you might struggle like I did at first. That being said, if you are like me and find mental health rep relatable and fascinating, you might enjoy this read.
December 4, 2025
This book is wrongfully characterized as dark romance. There is nothing dark about the (precisely 3) romantic or spicy parts of this book. The characters are severely immature - FMC is annoying and completely insufferable with very few redeeming qualities. MMC is brilliant while also being completely numb? A man in a trench coat is hot???? Idk I wasn’t buying any of it. This book may possibly appeal to fans of Butcher + Blackbird which also was not for me. The first half felt like reading a comic book filled with high-school-aged characters. The storyline almost worked for about 15 minutes in the middle then you were thrown back into a chaotic and underdeveloped wanna-be mafia heist. It felt like the author was trying to do too much and 500 pages was WAY too long. If my OCD had allowed, I would have DNFed this book after the first 100 pages.
February 22, 2026
Honestly, for a mafia romance, I really enjoyed this!! It’s hard to write mafia romance and have it not be so “copy and pasted”. The pace, the burn, the comedy, and the triggers. Perfect!! I did not get along with Zarha AT ALL lmao, but I loved the book overall.
April 27, 2025
DEFINITELY 5★
Cannot wait to see the published version😫 THE WICKED IS COMINGGG
Cannot wait to see the published version😫 THE WICKED IS COMINGGG
November 25, 2025
arc review to come 🖤
January 20, 2026
DNF at page 135. This isn’t interesting at all & frankly all their names are stupid.
November 4, 2025
ATTENTION, if you want ENEMIES to ?lovers? it does not get more enemies than this. THIS is the definition of ENEMIES!!!
I think the MMC threatened and literally attempted to kill the FMC approximately 45 times throughout this book. I gasped outloud many times. 10/10 no notes.
This book was the most MAFIA mafia book I think I’ve ever read. Do not speak to Elio wrong or he’s pulling a gun on you every day everytime.
The FMC Zahra & her ragtag crew of friends are thieves.
The MMC Elio is the leader of the most powerful mafia families in Italy.
The thieves aka “Street” try to steal from the mafia family and are then forced to work for them to do art heists in exchange for their ultimate freedom.
There were a few plot twists throughout this that had me GAGGED.
I LOVED that the FMC of this is middle eastern. She is very witty and funny. I really enjoyed her internal monologue and the banter between characters.
One thing that was a little confusing for me was that the novel is set in Italy and the characters are speaking English (i believe?) but the FMC & MMC speak Spanish to eachother (it’s their special thing).
Why I didn’t give it 5 stars is at some points there were pacing issues.
And at absolutely no point in this story do you ever believe a single character is telling the truth at all whatsoever. The tension is phenomenal and I do feel the chemistry but I really don’t know what is the reality and what is the truth. They are all using eachother and it’s hard to figure out what anyone’s true intentions are. And I felt this way from start to finish. I think that was the author’s point but it made it hard for me to fully love the main characters & their relationship.
That being said, I did have fun. I do plan on immediately continuing the series and am excited to see where the story goes. This is the first book in a trilogy.
CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS before reading. There is a lot of extremely dark back stories.
Thanks to Tor and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
I think the MMC threatened and literally attempted to kill the FMC approximately 45 times throughout this book. I gasped outloud many times. 10/10 no notes.
This book was the most MAFIA mafia book I think I’ve ever read. Do not speak to Elio wrong or he’s pulling a gun on you every day everytime.
The FMC Zahra & her ragtag crew of friends are thieves.
The MMC Elio is the leader of the most powerful mafia families in Italy.
The thieves aka “Street” try to steal from the mafia family and are then forced to work for them to do art heists in exchange for their ultimate freedom.
There were a few plot twists throughout this that had me GAGGED.
I LOVED that the FMC of this is middle eastern. She is very witty and funny. I really enjoyed her internal monologue and the banter between characters.
One thing that was a little confusing for me was that the novel is set in Italy and the characters are speaking English (i believe?) but the FMC & MMC speak Spanish to eachother (it’s their special thing).
Why I didn’t give it 5 stars is at some points there were pacing issues.
And at absolutely no point in this story do you ever believe a single character is telling the truth at all whatsoever. The tension is phenomenal and I do feel the chemistry but I really don’t know what is the reality and what is the truth. They are all using eachother and it’s hard to figure out what anyone’s true intentions are. And I felt this way from start to finish. I think that was the author’s point but it made it hard for me to fully love the main characters & their relationship.
That being said, I did have fun. I do plan on immediately continuing the series and am excited to see where the story goes. This is the first book in a trilogy.
CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS before reading. There is a lot of extremely dark back stories.
Thanks to Tor and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
November 27, 2025
Okay so first off, it takes place in Milan. Yet the characters say “do you like Italian food?” BRUH THEY ARE ITALIAN AND LIVE IN MILAN WHAT DO YOU MEAN!
I liked the first half and then second half had me lost and confused
I liked the first half and then second half had me lost and confused
February 3, 2026
This was very different from a mafia romance and a very different romance novel in general. I was surprised at how slow burn it was. The Wicked reminded me so much of Ocean's 11 which I love. It was giving way more heist than mafia for sure, so if you like heists then you will probably like this book. I really liked the characterization. I wish the next book was focused on Devil, but alas we r getting more Zahra and Elio and a continuation of their story. Im not as invested in them, so not sure if I will continue the series or not.
December 2, 2025
I think this might be the author’s debut, and wow, what an incredible start to a trilogy. Elio truly lives up to “The Wicked,” all quiet power and deadly secrets, while Zahra is fierce, dangerous, and impossible not to look away from. Every interaction between them…🔥🥵
The audiobook narrators, Jaclyn Kelso & Marcio Catalano, did an amazing job bringing these characters to life.
Thank you @macmillan.audio for the gifted ALC and for introducing me to a new author I’ll definitely keep reading.
The audiobook narrators, Jaclyn Kelso & Marcio Catalano, did an amazing job bringing these characters to life.
Thank you @macmillan.audio for the gifted ALC and for introducing me to a new author I’ll definitely keep reading.
May 30, 2026
4.25/5 stars
I'm not even kidding, i think im slightly in love with this author and these characters... especially zahra though holy fuck shes actually so far up with my favourite fmc's - i promise girl please pick me, i could look past the compulsive lying i promise <3 shes actually so funny too because wdym ''I have this disorder where every insult I get materializes into compliments in my head; its like - so rare and incurable'' LMAO
and elio.... i just know youre going to become the most pathetic mmc ever and i #NEEDTHATTTTTTTTTT. i too would fold at the sight and thought of zahra buddy you're not special! that aside... im genuinely so down bad for both of them and i just want the world to be handed over to both of them immediately
book 2 comes out on june 2nd and ive never been more glad that i dont have to wait forever for a follow up cause WHAT was that final 60 pages???? Rebecca i need answers and solutions and i need them now.
I'm not even kidding, i think im slightly in love with this author and these characters... especially zahra though holy fuck shes actually so far up with my favourite fmc's - i promise girl please pick me, i could look past the compulsive lying i promise <3 shes actually so funny too because wdym ''I have this disorder where every insult I get materializes into compliments in my head; its like - so rare and incurable'' LMAO
and elio.... i just know youre going to become the most pathetic mmc ever and i #NEEDTHATTTTTTTTTT. i too would fold at the sight and thought of zahra buddy you're not special! that aside... im genuinely so down bad for both of them and i just want the world to be handed over to both of them immediately
book 2 comes out on june 2nd and ive never been more glad that i dont have to wait forever for a follow up cause WHAT was that final 60 pages???? Rebecca i need answers and solutions and i need them now.
May 27, 2026
I can maybe see the appeal to another reader. Unfortunately the storyline and writing style just aren't me.
I do believe the narrators did very well though. The pace was steady and the characters they portrayed were clear.
I appreciate the audio from macmillan and am giving my opinion freely.
I do believe the narrators did very well though. The pace was steady and the characters they portrayed were clear.
I appreciate the audio from macmillan and am giving my opinion freely.
March 14, 2026
⭐️ONE STAR.. because zero wasn’t an optio. ⭐️
I cannot believe I wasted an entire week of my life reading The Wicked. I love mafia romance! LOVE IT!! Yet somehow this book managed to be… none of that. What even was this? Mafia? Romance? Group therapy gone wrong? Unclear.
Both main characters desperately need therapy and somehow never get their shit together from page one to the end. And Zahra?? She jumps from one brother to another faster than she changes her socks. Loyalty? Character development? A moral compass? Absolutely not.
Also… were they even kidnapped??? Or was it more like a mildly inconvenient road trip with emotional baggage? Because I’m still confused.
And the ending, the so-called “huge cliffhanger”, was nothing more than a what the actual fudge was that bull-loney moment. No shock. No payoff. Just vibes. Bad ones.
Pathetic. Disappointing. Offensive to mafia romance everywhere.
⭐ 1 star. Do not recommend. 🚫📖
#BookReview #MafiaRomanceFail #WhatDidIJustRead #OneStarRead #DNFInSpirit #ReaderRage #WasteOfTime
I cannot believe I wasted an entire week of my life reading The Wicked. I love mafia romance! LOVE IT!! Yet somehow this book managed to be… none of that. What even was this? Mafia? Romance? Group therapy gone wrong? Unclear.
Both main characters desperately need therapy and somehow never get their shit together from page one to the end. And Zahra?? She jumps from one brother to another faster than she changes her socks. Loyalty? Character development? A moral compass? Absolutely not.
Also… were they even kidnapped??? Or was it more like a mildly inconvenient road trip with emotional baggage? Because I’m still confused.
And the ending, the so-called “huge cliffhanger”, was nothing more than a what the actual fudge was that bull-loney moment. No shock. No payoff. Just vibes. Bad ones.
Pathetic. Disappointing. Offensive to mafia romance everywhere.
⭐ 1 star. Do not recommend. 🚫📖
#BookReview #MafiaRomanceFail #WhatDidIJustRead #OneStarRead #DNFInSpirit #ReaderRage #WasteOfTime
December 4, 2025
✨ 5 stars ✨
So… I was reading, and reading. Flipping pages. When I suddenly got interrupted, BY THE ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS page. I need a second book now.
Guys, we all know this came from wattpad, and there is one art the Wattpad authors have mastered, and that is writing banter. This book is no exception, the banter was exquisite.
The thing that a lot of funny books lack, is depth. But even in that category this book delivered. The characters were developed, minor characters included. And the deep connection the main leads had, shone through the story.
'Then why don’t you tell people the truth?”
“No one has ever asked.'
Last but not least, THEY WERE SO HOT. Omg.
'You’re my first. I don’t like a mess, but I’ll take yours any day.'
Looking out for book 2!
So… I was reading, and reading. Flipping pages. When I suddenly got interrupted, BY THE ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS page. I need a second book now.
Guys, we all know this came from wattpad, and there is one art the Wattpad authors have mastered, and that is writing banter. This book is no exception, the banter was exquisite.
The thing that a lot of funny books lack, is depth. But even in that category this book delivered. The characters were developed, minor characters included. And the deep connection the main leads had, shone through the story.
'Then why don’t you tell people the truth?”
“No one has ever asked.'
Last but not least, THEY WERE SO HOT. Omg.
'You’re my first. I don’t like a mess, but I’ll take yours any day.'
Looking out for book 2!
December 13, 2025
Audiobook/BookReview 📖🎧❤️🔥
thank you so much partner @brambleromance @macmillan.audio for the gifted ARC + audiobook!
The Wicked
by Rebecca Johnpee
narrated by Jaclyn Kelso, Marcio Cataland
out now!
Elio
They call me "The Wicked."
I've earned that name with blood, silence, and the weight of every secret I carry.
As head of the Marino Family, nothing slips past me.
Not lies. Not weakness. Not fear.
But when she enters my world...everything tilts.
Zahra
I'm dangerous-and l've had to be.
I grew up with men who treated bullets like sugar cubes.
I've risen from the streets to create the most notorious gang of thieves in the country. But after a job goes wrong, my crew and I are held captive by The Wicked, and I'll do just about anything to take advantage of it. Even if it means working with The Wicked and pulling off the biggest heist I've ever dreamed of.
I'm dancing with the devil, and the cost might be my body-my very soul.
But I'm willing to pay the price if it means I get him...
❤️🔥 My thoughts:
Well dammit that ending!! I’ll just be impatiently waiting for book two Loving The Wicked… In the meantime let’s talk about The Wicked! I split my time equally between physically reading and audiobook listening. Truthfully, I preferred the physical book. The narrators were fine but my imagination with this story and the authors writing was just my cup of tea. It’s fast paced and entertaining as all hell. I have only read a handful of mafia romance but I can see why they are so popular. It’s a pretty dang good enemies to lovers storyline full of morally grey characters . If you enjoy all the touch them and die vibes… you’ll have to give this one a read or a listen. The Wicked is out today 11/25!
Happy reading 📖 🎧❤️🔥
thank you so much partner @brambleromance @macmillan.audio for the gifted ARC + audiobook!
The Wicked
by Rebecca Johnpee
narrated by Jaclyn Kelso, Marcio Cataland
out now!
Elio
They call me "The Wicked."
I've earned that name with blood, silence, and the weight of every secret I carry.
As head of the Marino Family, nothing slips past me.
Not lies. Not weakness. Not fear.
But when she enters my world...everything tilts.
Zahra
I'm dangerous-and l've had to be.
I grew up with men who treated bullets like sugar cubes.
I've risen from the streets to create the most notorious gang of thieves in the country. But after a job goes wrong, my crew and I are held captive by The Wicked, and I'll do just about anything to take advantage of it. Even if it means working with The Wicked and pulling off the biggest heist I've ever dreamed of.
I'm dancing with the devil, and the cost might be my body-my very soul.
But I'm willing to pay the price if it means I get him...
❤️🔥 My thoughts:
Well dammit that ending!! I’ll just be impatiently waiting for book two Loving The Wicked… In the meantime let’s talk about The Wicked! I split my time equally between physically reading and audiobook listening. Truthfully, I preferred the physical book. The narrators were fine but my imagination with this story and the authors writing was just my cup of tea. It’s fast paced and entertaining as all hell. I have only read a handful of mafia romance but I can see why they are so popular. It’s a pretty dang good enemies to lovers storyline full of morally grey characters . If you enjoy all the touch them and die vibes… you’ll have to give this one a read or a listen. The Wicked is out today 11/25!
Happy reading 📖 🎧❤️🔥
November 20, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
Feelings turning the last page: MY HEART HURTS REBECCA I’M IN PHYSICAL PAIN I NEED BOOK 2‼️😭🙃
10-second synopsis: Zahra and her merry band of thieves find themselves in the clutches of Elio Marino aka The Wicked after a job has gone wrong. He offers them their freedom…but everything comes with a price!
Review: WOW I loved this book. It was refreshing and a different take on mafia romance. Zahra and Elio HATE each other you guys and I ATE UP all their interactions. The members of Street had me cackling - the way they talk to and feed off each other is everything. The action throughout had me on the edge of my seat - a perfect balance of action, downtime, and tension🔥🔥.
Zahra is a fantastic FMC who has been through so much and has had to get street smart over the years. Gah I felt for her so much throughout this book. Elio is the same way. He’s such a unique MMC in how he thinks and acts and I honestly love him so much. I just want to give both of them a hug.
The ending had my stomach hurting and I can’t wait for book 2 😅❤️❤️.
The audiobook narration was PHENOMENAL. Jaclyn Kelso is a STAR. With all the different voices for different characters? Fantastic. This was my first Marcio Catalano narration and it will not be my last. I absolutely LOVED him as Elio. Perfectly captured his personality!!!
Check your TWs because there are some dark moments and both Z/E have traumatic childhoods.
Thank you so much to Macmillan Audio for the ALC and Tor and Bramble for the eARC!!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
Feelings turning the last page: MY HEART HURTS REBECCA I’M IN PHYSICAL PAIN I NEED BOOK 2‼️😭🙃
10-second synopsis: Zahra and her merry band of thieves find themselves in the clutches of Elio Marino aka The Wicked after a job has gone wrong. He offers them their freedom…but everything comes with a price!
Review: WOW I loved this book. It was refreshing and a different take on mafia romance. Zahra and Elio HATE each other you guys and I ATE UP all their interactions. The members of Street had me cackling - the way they talk to and feed off each other is everything. The action throughout had me on the edge of my seat - a perfect balance of action, downtime, and tension🔥🔥.
Zahra is a fantastic FMC who has been through so much and has had to get street smart over the years. Gah I felt for her so much throughout this book. Elio is the same way. He’s such a unique MMC in how he thinks and acts and I honestly love him so much. I just want to give both of them a hug.
The ending had my stomach hurting and I can’t wait for book 2 😅❤️❤️.
The audiobook narration was PHENOMENAL. Jaclyn Kelso is a STAR. With all the different voices for different characters? Fantastic. This was my first Marcio Catalano narration and it will not be my last. I absolutely LOVED him as Elio. Perfectly captured his personality!!!
Check your TWs because there are some dark moments and both Z/E have traumatic childhoods.
Thank you so much to Macmillan Audio for the ALC and Tor and Bramble for the eARC!!
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