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To Have and To Hold: Arranged marriage stand-alone
Arranged marriage, age-gap, forbidden, forced proximity, Romeo and Juliet vibes, dangerous romance
The Roríguez cartel is spinning out of control, tragedy putting the alliance and our future in question.
I’m Emiliano Ruiz and throughout the last few years, I’ve witnessed my sisters being doled out to members of the Luciano Mafia. The cartel has also taken famiglia women. It doesn’t matter if it’s the Luciano famiglia’s turn to take a bride.
My mind is set—it’s my turn.
I never imagined marrying a young bride until I caught sight of Isabella Luciano. She’s only eighteen, and with her long yellow hair and her big dark eyes, she’s a vision to behold. She sees me through the tinted lens of her father's hatred.
Carmine Luciano’s distain of the cartel and the alliance isn’t a secret. His opinion won’t stop me. I’ll prove to Isabella that even bad men can be good husbands.
No matter what her father says or what happens in our war, Isabella will be mine.
Have you been Aleatha’d?
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD is a stand-alone dangerous Mafia/cartel romance in the “Brutal Vows” series. Each arranged-marriage story is filled with the suspense, intrigue, and heat you’ve come to expect from New York Times bestselling author Aleatha Romig.
The Roríguez cartel is spinning out of control, tragedy putting the alliance and our future in question.
I’m Emiliano Ruiz and throughout the last few years, I’ve witnessed my sisters being doled out to members of the Luciano Mafia. The cartel has also taken famiglia women. It doesn’t matter if it’s the Luciano famiglia’s turn to take a bride.
My mind is set—it’s my turn.
I never imagined marrying a young bride until I caught sight of Isabella Luciano. She’s only eighteen, and with her long yellow hair and her big dark eyes, she’s a vision to behold. She sees me through the tinted lens of her father's hatred.
Carmine Luciano’s distain of the cartel and the alliance isn’t a secret. His opinion won’t stop me. I’ll prove to Isabella that even bad men can be good husbands.
No matter what her father says or what happens in our war, Isabella will be mine.
Have you been Aleatha’d?
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD is a stand-alone dangerous Mafia/cartel romance in the “Brutal Vows” series. Each arranged-marriage story is filled with the suspense, intrigue, and heat you’ve come to expect from New York Times bestselling author Aleatha Romig.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 24, 2025
65 people are currently reading
8708 people want to read
About the author
Aleatha Romig
122 books13k followersAleatha Romig is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author who lives in Indiana, USA. She grew up in Mishawaka, graduated from Indiana University, and is currently living south of Indianapolis, USA. Before she became a full-time author, she worked days as a dental hygienist and spent her nights writing. Now, when she's not imagining mind-blowing twists and turns, she likes to spend her time with her friends and family, including her beloved grandchildren.
Aleatha released her first novel, CONSEQUENCES, in August of 2011. CONSEQUENCES became a bestselling series with five novels and two companions released from 2011 through 2015. The compelling and epic story of Anthony and Claire Rawlings has graced more than a million e-readers. Her next series, INFIDELITY (not about cheating) hit New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today best-seller lists. Aleatha has since released over fifty novels in multiple genres: dark romance, romantic suspense, thriller, and romantic comedy. She went back to her edge of your seat romantic suspense thrillers with her WEB SERIES trilogies, Devil’s Duet, Kingdom Come, and most recently with her suspense series, the Sin series, ready to binge.
The titles keep coming. Be sure to check out her website to stay up to date.
Aleatha is represented by Danielle Sanchez of SBR Media and PR with Wildfire Marketing.
Aleatha released her first novel, CONSEQUENCES, in August of 2011. CONSEQUENCES became a bestselling series with five novels and two companions released from 2011 through 2015. The compelling and epic story of Anthony and Claire Rawlings has graced more than a million e-readers. Her next series, INFIDELITY (not about cheating) hit New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today best-seller lists. Aleatha has since released over fifty novels in multiple genres: dark romance, romantic suspense, thriller, and romantic comedy. She went back to her edge of your seat romantic suspense thrillers with her WEB SERIES trilogies, Devil’s Duet, Kingdom Come, and most recently with her suspense series, the Sin series, ready to binge.
The titles keep coming. Be sure to check out her website to stay up to date.
Aleatha is represented by Danielle Sanchez of SBR Media and PR with Wildfire Marketing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
March 31, 2025
Absolutely loved this! Spicy mafia is my new favorite troph. I couldn't put it down!!
March 24, 2025
To Have and To Hold is the fifth and final book in the Brutal Vows series. Each book in this series can be read as a standalone as each book focuses on one particular couple. However, to get an all-around, full enjoyment, definitely read them in order.
Aleatha is one of my go-to authors for romantic suspense reads. She always creates a story that she has not told before with characters we love. Emiliano is a lieutenant in the Rodriguez cartel and Isabella is the daughter of a copa in the Luciano mafia.
Isabella has been very guarded while she was raised. It's not until she moves in her with cousin that she starts to see things from outside other people's opinions and what she's been told. Emiliano (Em) immediately knows that Isabella is the one for him, but he has an uphill battle ahead of him - in both love and family.
I love how Aleatha ties the dynamics of the cartel/mafic lifestyle and their battles in with the romance and it all blends so perfectly. Isabella learns alot and starts to see where lies are told and decisions she needs to start making for herself.
I want to say so much but don't want to ruin how everything plays out. The writing is spectacular and keeps you engaged the whole time.
If you are looking for a great mafia, romantic suspense - this is it. This entire series is it!
Aleatha is one of my go-to authors for romantic suspense reads. She always creates a story that she has not told before with characters we love. Emiliano is a lieutenant in the Rodriguez cartel and Isabella is the daughter of a copa in the Luciano mafia.
Isabella has been very guarded while she was raised. It's not until she moves in her with cousin that she starts to see things from outside other people's opinions and what she's been told. Emiliano (Em) immediately knows that Isabella is the one for him, but he has an uphill battle ahead of him - in both love and family.
I love how Aleatha ties the dynamics of the cartel/mafic lifestyle and their battles in with the romance and it all blends so perfectly. Isabella learns alot and starts to see where lies are told and decisions she needs to start making for herself.
I want to say so much but don't want to ruin how everything plays out. The writing is spectacular and keeps you engaged the whole time.
If you are looking for a great mafia, romantic suspense - this is it. This entire series is it!
March 12, 2025
Mafia romance at its best.
I loved seeing Isabella grow from a scared eighteen year old girl to a strong eighteen year old woman. When she first agreed to come to San Diego to help her cousin Mia with the apartment she was a bit overwhelmed and scared. But with the help of Emiliano(Em), Liliana and Mia she grew up very quickly and is not only not scared but she is in love. In love with Em and what she does at the apartment and California.
Emiliano knew the minute he laid eyes on Isabella that she was going to be his wife, love at first sight. I loved how protective and loving he is with her, the complete opposite of his scary job with the cartel.
Loved all the suspense in this as well. Great ending to this series.
I loved seeing Isabella grow from a scared eighteen year old girl to a strong eighteen year old woman. When she first agreed to come to San Diego to help her cousin Mia with the apartment she was a bit overwhelmed and scared. But with the help of Emiliano(Em), Liliana and Mia she grew up very quickly and is not only not scared but she is in love. In love with Em and what she does at the apartment and California.
Emiliano knew the minute he laid eyes on Isabella that she was going to be his wife, love at first sight. I loved how protective and loving he is with her, the complete opposite of his scary job with the cartel.
Loved all the suspense in this as well. Great ending to this series.
March 24, 2025
Be prepared because this is a bit of a slow burn. Isabella has been so sheltered that she's slowly learning that the things her parents told her are not the truth.
The Rodriguez cartel is spinning after the loss of their former leader. Emiliano has watched his sisters marry into the Luciano family and famiglia woman marry into the cartel.
Em is ready for it to be his turn, especially after meeting Isabella Luciano. She's young, but she sees him through her father's lens of disdain.
With Isabella now in San Diego and helping Mia, she is starting to see the cartel differently. She's even beginning to see Emiliano differently.
Thanks so much to the author and Wildfire for this ARC to review.
The Rodriguez cartel is spinning after the loss of their former leader. Emiliano has watched his sisters marry into the Luciano family and famiglia woman marry into the cartel.
Em is ready for it to be his turn, especially after meeting Isabella Luciano. She's young, but she sees him through her father's lens of disdain.
With Isabella now in San Diego and helping Mia, she is starting to see the cartel differently. She's even beginning to see Emiliano differently.
Thanks so much to the author and Wildfire for this ARC to review.
March 15, 2025
Isabella has led a sheltered life. We see her grow throughout the story and realize her parents were wrong about many things. I really liked Emiliano and the way he treated Isabella. Despite the age gap, they worked well together. In addition to the romance, the mafia/cartel side of the story kept me in suspense, wondering what was going to happen. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It had the right mix of romance and suspense that kept me reading.
March 23, 2025
A great ending to this series. Add in a forbidden element and a web of lies and you’ll be captivated from the beginning to the end. Em and Isabella chemistry is on fire in this mafia/cartel/age gap storyline that is definitely worth the read.
March 24, 2025
4.5 Stars!
First and foremost I want to give a massive THANK YOU to Aleatha Romig and her team for sending me an ARC of her new book To Have and to Hold. This was such a fun read.
To Have and To Hold is a cartel/mafia romance and is sadly the last book in the Brutal Vows series 😭
This book focuses on our two main characters named Isabella and Emiliano they come from rival cartel/mafia families, and they give us a very enemies-to-lovers and forbidden love kind of romance. Isabella grows up very sheltered and controlled by her father who will not allow her to go to college so he sends her from her home in Kansas City to San Diego to help her cousin Mia with her business. With this small piece of freedom from her father Isabella is able to grow into her own person which is refreshing to see throughout the course of this book because women in the cartel/mafia usually are not allowed to be their own person, most times that is decided for them and I love that the author took that ideology and turned it on its head.
Emiliano on the other hand, is a dangerous man. He is a lieutenant for the cartel. He will not hesitate to kill someone that crosses him, but has an instant soft side for Isabella literally from the moment he meets her at a birthday party. However, how can he be with Isabella if they come from rival families? Especially when this is a family that Isabella's father told her to stay away from. Well, Emiliano isn't going to let that stop him from being with his Isabella and is determined to show her that he can be a good man regardless of his job description.
This book was fantastic!! The action, the suspence, the romantic tension between Izzy and Em left me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading. I am so sad that this series had come to an end, but at least I have a new favorite author.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review**
First and foremost I want to give a massive THANK YOU to Aleatha Romig and her team for sending me an ARC of her new book To Have and to Hold. This was such a fun read.
To Have and To Hold is a cartel/mafia romance and is sadly the last book in the Brutal Vows series 😭
This book focuses on our two main characters named Isabella and Emiliano they come from rival cartel/mafia families, and they give us a very enemies-to-lovers and forbidden love kind of romance. Isabella grows up very sheltered and controlled by her father who will not allow her to go to college so he sends her from her home in Kansas City to San Diego to help her cousin Mia with her business. With this small piece of freedom from her father Isabella is able to grow into her own person which is refreshing to see throughout the course of this book because women in the cartel/mafia usually are not allowed to be their own person, most times that is decided for them and I love that the author took that ideology and turned it on its head.
Emiliano on the other hand, is a dangerous man. He is a lieutenant for the cartel. He will not hesitate to kill someone that crosses him, but has an instant soft side for Isabella literally from the moment he meets her at a birthday party. However, how can he be with Isabella if they come from rival families? Especially when this is a family that Isabella's father told her to stay away from. Well, Emiliano isn't going to let that stop him from being with his Isabella and is determined to show her that he can be a good man regardless of his job description.
This book was fantastic!! The action, the suspence, the romantic tension between Izzy and Em left me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading. I am so sad that this series had come to an end, but at least I have a new favorite author.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review**
March 22, 2025
This book was so good! Isabella is part of the Luciano family and her father has told her that the cartel members are bad, horrible people and to stay away from them. Kinda funny coming from her father since the mafia does the same thing that the cartel members do.
Since it's the summer and Izzy has graduated high school and her father won't permit her to go to college, she goes out to California to help her cousin, Mia, with the tenants at the apartments since Mia is still on maternity leave. When she goes to California she gets to spend time with Emiliano and she discovers just how sheltered her life has been.
Izzy enjoys her time at the apartments and working with the tenants, it takes her a bit to get used to looking past what their jobs are, but she looks past her parents prejudices and sees the women for themselves.
Emiliano falls for Izzy the instant he sees her at his sister's place in Kansas City for his niece's first birthday and is happy to find out that Izzy will be out in California for awhile. He takes it slow with her when he realizes how sheltered she is and helps her to see that the cartel and mafia are the same.
Their friendship slowly morphs and they go on a tour of San Diego where Em shares his feelings and tells her his intentions. Things move fast for them but of course there are obstacles. Love is never easy for the cartel/mafia alliance.
This story was awesome. I'm only sad to see this series come to an end. Hoping for more of the side characters to get their HEAs, I was really hoping for Lilliana to find love!
ARC provided for an honest review.
Since it's the summer and Izzy has graduated high school and her father won't permit her to go to college, she goes out to California to help her cousin, Mia, with the tenants at the apartments since Mia is still on maternity leave. When she goes to California she gets to spend time with Emiliano and she discovers just how sheltered her life has been.
Izzy enjoys her time at the apartments and working with the tenants, it takes her a bit to get used to looking past what their jobs are, but she looks past her parents prejudices and sees the women for themselves.
Emiliano falls for Izzy the instant he sees her at his sister's place in Kansas City for his niece's first birthday and is happy to find out that Izzy will be out in California for awhile. He takes it slow with her when he realizes how sheltered she is and helps her to see that the cartel and mafia are the same.
Their friendship slowly morphs and they go on a tour of San Diego where Em shares his feelings and tells her his intentions. Things move fast for them but of course there are obstacles. Love is never easy for the cartel/mafia alliance.
This story was awesome. I'm only sad to see this series come to an end. Hoping for more of the side characters to get their HEAs, I was really hoping for Lilliana to find love!
ARC provided for an honest review.
March 24, 2025
Reviewed for A Wanton Book Lover Blog
Izabelle Luciano has been warned to stay far away from any of the cartel members her family comes in contact with even though, they are all in business together. Just a naive 18-year-old, Izzy's family has sheltered her from the real world in which they live and work in. But when Izzy is allowed to leave her family and help out her cousin, she packs her bags and heads to sunny California Living with the head of the mafia (as he is Mia's husband) has been nerve-racking but she is settling into her new job and enjoying the company of the older, Emiliano Ruiz. Em became enamored with Izzy at Mia's wedding and has admired her from afar until they are now living and working in the same area. He and Izzy become friends but the two are completely attracted to each other. When Em declares his intentions with Izzy, it begins a romantic race from start to finish to do anything to make Izzy his. Em opens up a whole new world to Izzy and treats her as the treasure she is.
To Have and To Hold is an instant-love story (once Izzy realizes that Em is not everything her father has made his family out to be) that will sweep you off your feet. Emiliano was charming, smooth, and easy to fall into "fiction" love with. The secondary story to Em's and Izzy's is fast-paced, suspenseful, and full of intrigue. To Have and to Hold was an enjoyable one-day read and makes a wonderful edition for the Ruiz/Luciano series.
s
Izabelle Luciano has been warned to stay far away from any of the cartel members her family comes in contact with even though, they are all in business together. Just a naive 18-year-old, Izzy's family has sheltered her from the real world in which they live and work in. But when Izzy is allowed to leave her family and help out her cousin, she packs her bags and heads to sunny California Living with the head of the mafia (as he is Mia's husband) has been nerve-racking but she is settling into her new job and enjoying the company of the older, Emiliano Ruiz. Em became enamored with Izzy at Mia's wedding and has admired her from afar until they are now living and working in the same area. He and Izzy become friends but the two are completely attracted to each other. When Em declares his intentions with Izzy, it begins a romantic race from start to finish to do anything to make Izzy his. Em opens up a whole new world to Izzy and treats her as the treasure she is.
To Have and To Hold is an instant-love story (once Izzy realizes that Em is not everything her father has made his family out to be) that will sweep you off your feet. Emiliano was charming, smooth, and easy to fall into "fiction" love with. The secondary story to Em's and Izzy's is fast-paced, suspenseful, and full of intrigue. To Have and to Hold was an enjoyable one-day read and makes a wonderful edition for the Ruiz/Luciano series.
s
March 24, 2025
To Have and To Hold is the fifth and final book in the Brutal Vows series. Each book in this series can be read as a standalone as each book focuses on one particular couple. However, to get an all-around, full enjoyment, definitely read them in order.
Aleatha is one of my go-to authors for romantic suspense reads. She always creates a story that she has not told before with characters we love. Emiliano is a lieutenant in the Rodriguez cartel and Isabella is the daughter of a copa in the Luciano mafia.
Isabella has been very guarded while she was raised. It's not until she moves in her with cousin that she starts to see things from outside other people's opinions and what she's been told. Emiliano (Em) immediately knows that Isabella is the one for him, but he has an uphill battle ahead of him - in both love and family.
I love how Aleatha ties the dynamics of the cartel/mafic lifestyle and their battles in with the romance and it all blends so perfectly. Isabella learns alot and starts to see where lies are told and decisions she needs to start making for herself.
I want to say so much but don't want to ruin how everything plays out. The writing is spectacular and keeps you engaged the whole time.
If you are looking for a great mafia, romantic suspense - this is it. This entire series is it!
Aleatha is one of my go-to authors for romantic suspense reads. She always creates a story that she has not told before with characters we love. Emiliano is a lieutenant in the Rodriguez cartel and Isabella is the daughter of a copa in the Luciano mafia.
Isabella has been very guarded while she was raised. It's not until she moves in her with cousin that she starts to see things from outside other people's opinions and what she's been told. Emiliano (Em) immediately knows that Isabella is the one for him, but he has an uphill battle ahead of him - in both love and family.
I love how Aleatha ties the dynamics of the cartel/mafic lifestyle and their battles in with the romance and it all blends so perfectly. Isabella learns alot and starts to see where lies are told and decisions she needs to start making for herself.
I want to say so much but don't want to ruin how everything plays out. The writing is spectacular and keeps you engaged the whole time.
If you are looking for a great mafia, romantic suspense - this is it. This entire series is it!
March 26, 2025
This is the final book Aleatha’s Brutal Vow’s series. Even though this is a standalone there would be better enjoyment reading the others in the series first as there are characters who populate throughout. This one had a very strong Romeo and Juliet Vibes. Isabella finally gets a chance to leave her family’s home for a bit to help her cousin Mia and organize the apartments and safety for the women that work for them in their care. Isabella being 18 takes this opportunity to flee the nest away from her parents. Emiliano Ruiz who is 29 & a lieutenant for the cartel and a rival family of Izzy’s, feels a strong connection with her shows her a dangerous man can have a heart. I’m sad the series is over
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
March 24, 2025
In this final book of the series, To Have and To Hold, we have Isabella Luciano, treasured daughter of Carmine Luciano of the Kansas City Mafia who goes out to help her cousin Mia with Wanderlust, the Cartel's club in California. There she is thrust back into the sights of Emiliano Ruiz, who has already been bewitched by her.
All marriages between these groups have been arranged but Em is not going to let Izzy get away. No matter what her father thinks, Em has decided he just has to convince Izzy that she belongs to him. Her innocence is coolingly refreshing and Em shows much more depth and compassion than he did in previous books. These two made the perfect couple. They both grew so much! It was amazing to watch! Loved the ending but hated to see the series end!
All marriages between these groups have been arranged but Em is not going to let Izzy get away. No matter what her father thinks, Em has decided he just has to convince Izzy that she belongs to him. Her innocence is coolingly refreshing and Em shows much more depth and compassion than he did in previous books. These two made the perfect couple. They both grew so much! It was amazing to watch! Loved the ending but hated to see the series end!
March 13, 2025
This is the fifth book in the 'Brutal Vows' series and can be also read as a standalone.
Emiliano is a 29 year old newly promoted lieutenant in the Cartel. He liked the look of Isabella from the Luciano Mafia when he saw her at a wedding. When she arrives in San Diego he does all he can to get close to her.
"I never imagined marrying a young bride until I caught sight of Isabella Luciano. She's only eighteen, and with her long yellow hair and big brown eyes, she's a vision to behold. She sees me, however, through the tinted lense of her father's hatred."
Isabella is the very sheltered daughter of a mafia lieutenant who is against the alliance with the cartel. Thanks to the Capo, she has the opportunity to travel from Kansas to San Diego to help her cousin Mia, wife of el Patrón of the Roríguez cartel. There she gets to know Emiliano.
"Looking up, I blinked, seeing the man I knew to be Catalina's brother." Oh, I'm sorry. Did I get any punch on you?" Emiliano smiled and looked down at his shirt - a blue button-up with sleeves rolled up to show his muscular forearms - then his dark stare came back at me. "No harm no foul."
Isabella has a steep learning and growing curve in this story and it's a joy to see. Emiliano is ready to settle down and is very focused on his goals. Meanwhile Isabella's father still hates the alliance with the cartel and the Mafia are called in to help the Cartel with rival factions.
This has been a fantastic series with its morally grey heroes and women fighting for their rights from within in a highly mysogenistic system.
I've happily been Aleatha’d yet again.
Emiliano is a 29 year old newly promoted lieutenant in the Cartel. He liked the look of Isabella from the Luciano Mafia when he saw her at a wedding. When she arrives in San Diego he does all he can to get close to her.
"I never imagined marrying a young bride until I caught sight of Isabella Luciano. She's only eighteen, and with her long yellow hair and big brown eyes, she's a vision to behold. She sees me, however, through the tinted lense of her father's hatred."
Isabella is the very sheltered daughter of a mafia lieutenant who is against the alliance with the cartel. Thanks to the Capo, she has the opportunity to travel from Kansas to San Diego to help her cousin Mia, wife of el Patrón of the Roríguez cartel. There she gets to know Emiliano.
"Looking up, I blinked, seeing the man I knew to be Catalina's brother." Oh, I'm sorry. Did I get any punch on you?" Emiliano smiled and looked down at his shirt - a blue button-up with sleeves rolled up to show his muscular forearms - then his dark stare came back at me. "No harm no foul."
Isabella has a steep learning and growing curve in this story and it's a joy to see. Emiliano is ready to settle down and is very focused on his goals. Meanwhile Isabella's father still hates the alliance with the cartel and the Mafia are called in to help the Cartel with rival factions.
This has been a fantastic series with its morally grey heroes and women fighting for their rights from within in a highly mysogenistic system.
I've happily been Aleatha’d yet again.
March 17, 2025
A beautiful ending to another one of my favorite series! To Have and To Hold is Izzy & Em's story and it is simply DELICIOUS! I read slowly, devouring each word and all the non-stop action. I didn't want it to end, and yet, as I approached the end, I had to keep turning the pages, desperate to know what would happen! Aleatha Romig's rich, sumptuous descriptions completely captivated my mind and carried me into the story from the first chapter to the last word.
I'm a big "age-gap" fan, and Em and Izzy's age difference did not disappoint. The Cartel Lieutenant's age and experience made him the perfect match for the innocent, sheltered Mafia Princess. I really enjoyed her naivete and her astonishment as her eyes were gradually opened to the world outside her mafia home. Izzy finding her true self and what she wanted in her life were some of my favorite parts of this story. Em, ever the strong Cartel soldier, was oh-so-tender when it came to Izzy. While their relationship evolved quickly and seemed a bit unbelievable at times what with Izzy's innocence, it still was oh-so-satisfying! I couldn't have enjoyed it more.
Grab your copy and dive in to all the action, suspense, and romance! I feel confident this entire Series will completely captivate you like it did me, from start to finish!
I'm a big "age-gap" fan, and Em and Izzy's age difference did not disappoint. The Cartel Lieutenant's age and experience made him the perfect match for the innocent, sheltered Mafia Princess. I really enjoyed her naivete and her astonishment as her eyes were gradually opened to the world outside her mafia home. Izzy finding her true self and what she wanted in her life were some of my favorite parts of this story. Em, ever the strong Cartel soldier, was oh-so-tender when it came to Izzy. While their relationship evolved quickly and seemed a bit unbelievable at times what with Izzy's innocence, it still was oh-so-satisfying! I couldn't have enjoyed it more.
Grab your copy and dive in to all the action, suspense, and romance! I feel confident this entire Series will completely captivate you like it did me, from start to finish!
March 22, 2025
4.5 stars
Finally, this series comes to fitting, exciting, and, yes, romantic conclusions. Complex family Tues have served to bring these families together in ways which bode well for their future.
Emiliano and Isabella are the final pair, and though Isabella is young and has much to learn, her heart knows what it wants and Emiliano is there to ensure she gets tjust what she, and he desires.
The story of this book is intense. So much is happening as the events of the previous books reach a climax! And it is one heck of a send-off to the series! Plotlines are resolved, comeuppances handed out and horrible Carmine is put in his place!
Aleatha just can't do anything wrong in my book, and I am already looking forward to what she comes up with next 💖💖💖💖💖
Finally, this series comes to fitting, exciting, and, yes, romantic conclusions. Complex family Tues have served to bring these families together in ways which bode well for their future.
Emiliano and Isabella are the final pair, and though Isabella is young and has much to learn, her heart knows what it wants and Emiliano is there to ensure she gets tjust what she, and he desires.
The story of this book is intense. So much is happening as the events of the previous books reach a climax! And it is one heck of a send-off to the series! Plotlines are resolved, comeuppances handed out and horrible Carmine is put in his place!
Aleatha just can't do anything wrong in my book, and I am already looking forward to what she comes up with next 💖💖💖💖💖
March 24, 2025
This is the fifth book in this amazing series and this is Emiliano and Isabella’s story.
Isabella has led a sheltered life and has been kept in the dark about what her family does. When Em and Izzy meet the sparks fly, and when her family’s dealing are revealed, he is determined to prove to her they are meant to be together.
This is a well written slow burn, action packed, story, with family dynamics, friendships, emotions, danger, suspense, intrigue, alliances, enemies / lovers, trust, an age gap, revelations, redemption, forced proximity, touch her and die vibes, undeniable chemistry, morally gray, and love, which leads to an entertaining, spicy, and unpredictable, mafia / cartel romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Isabella has led a sheltered life and has been kept in the dark about what her family does. When Em and Izzy meet the sparks fly, and when her family’s dealing are revealed, he is determined to prove to her they are meant to be together.
This is a well written slow burn, action packed, story, with family dynamics, friendships, emotions, danger, suspense, intrigue, alliances, enemies / lovers, trust, an age gap, revelations, redemption, forced proximity, touch her and die vibes, undeniable chemistry, morally gray, and love, which leads to an entertaining, spicy, and unpredictable, mafia / cartel romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
March 23, 2025
Ms. Romig does it again! Held me captive in Em and Izzy's story!
Isabella was protected her entire life.
She had no idea what really happened around her.
What her father did!
She's been denied a college education!
She's to be a good Italian wife and that's it!
Emiliano senses there's something about Isabella.
Could it be love?
He's ready for marriage and he wants Isabella.
But will the marriage be approved!
Will he live to see another day!
It seems a war is imminent!
Emotional, romantic, suspenseful.
Wonderful characters!
I loved it!
Isabella was protected her entire life.
She had no idea what really happened around her.
What her father did!
She's been denied a college education!
She's to be a good Italian wife and that's it!
Emiliano senses there's something about Isabella.
Could it be love?
He's ready for marriage and he wants Isabella.
But will the marriage be approved!
Will he live to see another day!
It seems a war is imminent!
Emotional, romantic, suspenseful.
Wonderful characters!
I loved it!
March 11, 2025
Reviewed by Robyn for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner
In this fifth and final book in the Brutal Vows series, we are gifted the story of Emiliano Ruiz a lieutenant in the Rodriguez cartel and Isabella Luciano who is the daughter of one of the capos in the Luciano Mafia. Both are great characters and perfect together.
The issues that have been brought up in this series, especially for women in these worlds, have been so enlightening but more so their pushback is even better. Isabella certainly has her eyes opened when she goes to live with her cousin, Mia, and her husband—the head of the Rodriguez cartel. Mia is a fantastic character and I was so happy she played quite a big part in this book too. Trying to change people’s perceptions about other people and their ‘so-called’ unsavoury professions is explored well.
Suspense and intrigue create a tense atmosphere while the cartel and mafia members try to find the Bratva boss who has teamed up with a different cartel to create havoc and worse for the Rodriguez cartel. Hand-in-hand is the romance between Emiliano and Isabella, which is so beautiful.
A terrific final story in this sensational series.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
In this fifth and final book in the Brutal Vows series, we are gifted the story of Emiliano Ruiz a lieutenant in the Rodriguez cartel and Isabella Luciano who is the daughter of one of the capos in the Luciano Mafia. Both are great characters and perfect together.
The issues that have been brought up in this series, especially for women in these worlds, have been so enlightening but more so their pushback is even better. Isabella certainly has her eyes opened when she goes to live with her cousin, Mia, and her husband—the head of the Rodriguez cartel. Mia is a fantastic character and I was so happy she played quite a big part in this book too. Trying to change people’s perceptions about other people and their ‘so-called’ unsavoury professions is explored well.
Suspense and intrigue create a tense atmosphere while the cartel and mafia members try to find the Bratva boss who has teamed up with a different cartel to create havoc and worse for the Rodriguez cartel. Hand-in-hand is the romance between Emiliano and Isabella, which is so beautiful.
A terrific final story in this sensational series.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
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March 24, 2025
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.
I read this book in one sitting and I loved every second of it. The chemistry and passion between Emiliano and Isabella was undeniable and sizzling. They were made for each other.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for an arranged marriage, forbidden love, enemies to lovers, forced proximity romance then you’re going to love it.
I read this book in one sitting and I loved every second of it. The chemistry and passion between Emiliano and Isabella was undeniable and sizzling. They were made for each other.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for an arranged marriage, forbidden love, enemies to lovers, forced proximity romance then you’re going to love it.
March 18, 2025
This is book 5 in the “brutal vows” series and absolutely love this one! Mafia/Cartel romance has always been not allowed. Now trying to work together there are more arranged marriages. Emiliano is a 29 year old in the Cartel. He has his eye one Isabella from the Luciano Mafia. But she has no interest in being told who she needs to marry. But spending time together she discovers he’s not as bad as she thought. Secrets are revealed and she starts listening to her heart instead of being told what to do. I couldn’t put this one down before getting to the end. Aleatha blows it out of this world again!
March 31, 2025
Book 5 and the grand finale of this exciting, drama filled, and sexy read.
Told in dual POV Isabella and Emiliano’s story is front and center as we re enter this intricate complicated dysfunctional family.
Fast paced, intense and suspenseful, their story develops with some interesting twists that prove that things are never what they appear.
This author never disappoints with her unique brand of incorporating mafia/cartel romance stories that keep you captivated from beginning to end.
An additional element in enjoying this series is that each book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. The author offers enough back story, so that there’s a seamless flow to the story.
However, reading each book in order offers the maximum enjoyment of the family dynamics.
All the secrets are revealed and what happens so Isabella and Emiliano made this the perfect ending to this series.
Told in dual POV Isabella and Emiliano’s story is front and center as we re enter this intricate complicated dysfunctional family.
Fast paced, intense and suspenseful, their story develops with some interesting twists that prove that things are never what they appear.
This author never disappoints with her unique brand of incorporating mafia/cartel romance stories that keep you captivated from beginning to end.
An additional element in enjoying this series is that each book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. The author offers enough back story, so that there’s a seamless flow to the story.
However, reading each book in order offers the maximum enjoyment of the family dynamics.
All the secrets are revealed and what happens so Isabella and Emiliano made this the perfect ending to this series.
March 11, 2025
I wrote this review for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner.
In this fifth and final book in the Brutal Vows series, we are gifted the story of Emiliano Ruiz a lieutenant in the Rodriguez cartel and Isabella Luciano who is the daughter of one of the capos in the Luciano Mafia. Both are great characters and perfect together.
The issues that have been brought up in this series, especially for women in these worlds, have been so enlightening but more so their pushback is even better. Isabella certainly has her eyes opened when she goes to live with her cousin, Mia, and her husband—the head of the Rodriguez cartel. Mia is a fantastic character and I was so happy she played quite a big part in this book too. Trying to change people’s perceptions about other people and their ‘so-called’ unsavoury professions is explored well.
Suspense and intrigue create a tense atmosphere while the cartel and mafia members try to find the Bratva boss who has teamed up with a different cartel to create havoc and worse for the Rodriguez cartel. Hand-in-hand is the romance between Emiliano and Isabella, which is so beautiful.
A terrific final story in this sensational series.
March 17, 2025
To Have and To Hold shows the battle between love and hate.
The chemistry between Em, a guy with ties to the Cartel, and Isabella who leads a totally sheltered life is undeniable, and their connection is strong.
Em is kind, loyal, generous and very honest. The way in which he loves Izzy is admirable. I think Isabella needed that after sifting through her father’s half truths. I loved how suspenseful the book was, constantly wondering what was coming next. I read this book cover to cover in one sitting. It was that good!
I’ve really come to love these characters and am sad the series is ending. I will actually miss reading about them and being in this world. At the same time, I’m excited for whatever Alethea has
The chemistry between Em, a guy with ties to the Cartel, and Isabella who leads a totally sheltered life is undeniable, and their connection is strong.
Em is kind, loyal, generous and very honest. The way in which he loves Izzy is admirable. I think Isabella needed that after sifting through her father’s half truths. I loved how suspenseful the book was, constantly wondering what was coming next. I read this book cover to cover in one sitting. It was that good!
I’ve really come to love these characters and am sad the series is ending. I will actually miss reading about them and being in this world. At the same time, I’m excited for whatever Alethea has
March 16, 2025
Another great addition to the Brutal Vows series. I have been waiting for Emiliano's to find his HEA and with Isabella, this story does not disappoint. War is a daily occurrence for both the Cartel, finding your hearts soulmate makes the bad moments more sweet. Em is all in with Izzy and it is so endearing to watch their live unfold. Watching Izzy mature and fall in love was a treat. I am sad this is the last book in the series. I will miss these characters.
“You’re mine to have and to hold. I can honestly say I’ve never felt something this strong. It seems I’ve been waiting for you to come into my life. They can’t stop what’s meant to be.”~Em
“You’re mine to have and to hold. I can honestly say I’ve never felt something this strong. It seems I’ve been waiting for you to come into my life. They can’t stop what’s meant to be.”~Em
March 18, 2025
I haven’t read any of the other series but I will be adding them to by TBR immediately! The thrill, the romance, the plot was over all pretty good! It did take me a minute to get into but over all I liked it alot.
March 14, 2025
It feels strange to say a Mafia story is sweet but it was.
She was young and innocent.
He was not!
But with her he was patient and caring.
Together they were perfect.
Not everyone wanted them together but they knew what they wanted.
He would kill for her
She would do anything for him.
I have really enjoyed this series and I think this is my favorite
She was young and innocent.
He was not!
But with her he was patient and caring.
Together they were perfect.
Not everyone wanted them together but they knew what they wanted.
He would kill for her
She would do anything for him.
I have really enjoyed this series and I think this is my favorite
March 13, 2025
I’ve been Aleatha’d again. I’m sad this is the last book in this series. Emiliano and Isabella’s story was every bit as good as all the others. When Izzy is sent to help Mia at Wanderland she gets an eye opening education about the cartel and familigia. Em is kind and helpful and they have an instant love for each other.
Want to read
March 11, 2025Purchased in epub format from Barnes and Noble for my Nook.
March 23, 2025
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD is the fifth and final? Instalment in Aleatha Romig’s contemporary , adult BRUTAL VOWS erotic, Mafia romance series. This is twenty-nine year old, Roriguez Cartel lieutenant Emiliano ‘Em’ Ruiz, and eighteen year old, Luciano Mafia princess Isabella Luciano’s story line. TO HAVE AND TO HOLD can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for backstory and cohesion.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Em and Isabella) TO HAVE AND TO HOLD follows in the wake of Isabella Luciano’s arrival in San Diego, California where she is tasked with helping her cousin Dario’s sister Mia, in the wake of the birth of her child but Isabella believes she is being tested, in the hopes of crawling home with her proverbial tail tucked between her legs . As a princess in the Luciano Mafia, Isabella has been ordered to keep her distance from the Mexican Cartel but two of Isabella’s cousins have married into the Roriguez Cartel, and our heroine is about to lose her heart to their newest Lieutenant. Emiliano ‘Em’ Ruiz is a high ranking member of the Roriguez Cartel, and our hero has fallen for a woman who has been raised to fear, wholly unaware of the workings of the Mafia and Cartel. As Em begins a slow seduction of our story line heroine, the Cartel is pulled into war the Russian Bratva.
The world building follows several paths including the dysfunctional dynamics of the Luciano family. Isabella is nothing more than a naïve pawn for her father’s rise to power but our heroine refuses to stand down when her father demands her return and more. As the Cartel battles for control, Isabella quickly learns about the dangers threatening the man that she loves.
The relationship between Isabella and Em is an age-gap, forbidden love, Romeo and Juliet-esque story of insta-love. Emiliano knows immediately that Isabella is the woman he is hoping to claim as his own but Isabella struggles with the pre-conceived notion that all Cartel members are dangerous killers. Naive and young, raised in a proverbial gilded cage, Isabella quickly settles into life with the Roriguez Cartel, falling for a man who will lay claim to her heart. The $ex scenes are passionate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
Once again, there is a large ensemble of colorful, powerful and energetic secondary and supporting characters, most of whom we met in the previous story lines including Isabella’s new friend Liliana. We are introduced to Isabella’s father Carmine Luciano, and her siblings Noemi and Tony, and her guards Horace and Silas.
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD is a story of power and control, family and restriction, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is engaging and compelling; the romance is seductive; the characters are determined and charismatic.The Brutal Vows series is not as dark or dramatic as some of the other Mafia romance story lines-the quick conflict resolution is subdued but there is plenty of sl&t shaming, which is addressed and condemned..
copy supplied for review
Told from dual first person perspectives (Em and Isabella) TO HAVE AND TO HOLD follows in the wake of Isabella Luciano’s arrival in San Diego, California where she is tasked with helping her cousin Dario’s sister Mia, in the wake of the birth of her child but Isabella believes she is being tested, in the hopes of crawling home with her proverbial tail tucked between her legs . As a princess in the Luciano Mafia, Isabella has been ordered to keep her distance from the Mexican Cartel but two of Isabella’s cousins have married into the Roriguez Cartel, and our heroine is about to lose her heart to their newest Lieutenant. Emiliano ‘Em’ Ruiz is a high ranking member of the Roriguez Cartel, and our hero has fallen for a woman who has been raised to fear, wholly unaware of the workings of the Mafia and Cartel. As Em begins a slow seduction of our story line heroine, the Cartel is pulled into war the Russian Bratva.
The world building follows several paths including the dysfunctional dynamics of the Luciano family. Isabella is nothing more than a naïve pawn for her father’s rise to power but our heroine refuses to stand down when her father demands her return and more. As the Cartel battles for control, Isabella quickly learns about the dangers threatening the man that she loves.
The relationship between Isabella and Em is an age-gap, forbidden love, Romeo and Juliet-esque story of insta-love. Emiliano knows immediately that Isabella is the woman he is hoping to claim as his own but Isabella struggles with the pre-conceived notion that all Cartel members are dangerous killers. Naive and young, raised in a proverbial gilded cage, Isabella quickly settles into life with the Roriguez Cartel, falling for a man who will lay claim to her heart. The $ex scenes are passionate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
Once again, there is a large ensemble of colorful, powerful and energetic secondary and supporting characters, most of whom we met in the previous story lines including Isabella’s new friend Liliana. We are introduced to Isabella’s father Carmine Luciano, and her siblings Noemi and Tony, and her guards Horace and Silas.
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD is a story of power and control, family and restriction, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is engaging and compelling; the romance is seductive; the characters are determined and charismatic.The Brutal Vows series is not as dark or dramatic as some of the other Mafia romance story lines-the quick conflict resolution is subdued but there is plenty of sl&t shaming, which is addressed and condemned..
copy supplied for review
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