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She’s determined to escape this ruthless mafia world.

He’ll do anything to make her his bride.


Maximo Pontrelli

Four years, eleven days, and three hours… that’s how long I’ve been in love with Elena.

Now that I’ve taken my seat as don of the Pontrelli family, I need a wife.

Finally, it’s time to claim my queen.

My obsession.

My forever.


Elena Pontrelli

I will never marry a mafia man.

I’ve returned to New York City to say goodbye to my family.

I’m starting a new life far, far away from here.

Where the monsters can’t touch me ever again.

When my protector unexpectedly proposes marriage, and won’t take no for an answer, I do what I must.

I run.



~ Bookish Heroine

~ Forced Marriage

~ He Falls First

~ Obsessed Hero

~ Forced Proximity

~ Runaway Bride

~ Touch Her and Die


Brutal Proposal is a standalone in the Twisted Arrangements series. It can be read as a standalone, but there are spoilers of the previous books. This story picks up right where Corrupt Promises left off. Maximo and Elena's story is a dark contemporary mafia romance with spice, drama, and a HEA. Please check the TWs.

379 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 24, 2026

63 people are currently reading
296 people want to read

About the author

Cassia Quinn

12 books261 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
Profile Image for Mairi Swan.
534 reviews42 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 20, 2026
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.
This is a dark-ish mafia, forced marriage, unrequited, with an obsessive hero who seems more cinnamon roll than dark and a wounded heroine that overcomes all her fears and becomes more than she expected.
It's an interconnected standalone and while reading the previous story I was curious about Elena's story. What happened? How did she manage to overcome her abduction? This story has it all explained. Even who was the culprit. But I'm not a snitch, you have to read it by yourself to find out.
So we have an obsessive hero, Maximo, who would do anything for her except one thing, to let her go. Therefore he forces her into marriage. Meanwhile, the heroine, Elena, is still having trouble with her abductors, even though they are no longer any issue and she tries to gain herself the freedom she wants to have but then she wakes up married and all plans scatter through the wind.
There's some back stabbing, some anger management, some stupid decisions but she somewhat changes her mind and feels comfortable in this relationship. The hero, though a Mafia man, was more like a cinnamon roll than your typical macho mafia guy but I loved him. I actually thought he was really cute through his embarrassment and trying to do things for Elena's pleasure.
Of course there's some action towards the end that makes your heart beat a little bit faster but eventually everything works out and they live happily ever after.
It's my fourth (or fifth? I don't remember for sure) book that I'm reading from this author and every time I am more than content while reading these stories. The writing has a pleasant flow without making it tiresome and the story is coming together smoothly.
Now I have to wait for the next one where we'll be reading Maximo's sister and her bodyguard. That would be fun.
16 reviews
May 27, 2025
I just finished forever fake and I just can't waitt for elena and maximo's bookk
Profile Image for Jessica Young .
58 reviews
February 24, 2026
I couldn’t wait for this one!! I wanted to see how Elena and Maximo ended up together. I love how Elena finds her footing and rises above being just a Mafia princess. The courage she finds in the end was the perfect ending for her.

The neat part is that we were introduced to Elena and Maximo a tiny bit in the other books, which really made heightened my anticipation for this book. It’s fun to see the continuation of other characters from the series as well. While you can read these as standalones, you definitely get a richer story by reading Stolen Vows first.

I really enjoy the way Cassia writes and tells a story. There’s a great balance of push and pull between good and definitely morally gray characters. I haven’t read many Mafia series, but Twisted Arrangements is my favorite series!!

The playlist is Awesome ❤️❤️
Profile Image for Susan McWhinney.
679 reviews9 followers
March 3, 2026
Ah The Obsessive Don who has stayed in the shadows following everything Elena for four years. He knew the moment he set eyes on her as her distant protector that she would one day be his.
As with all dark Mafia stories the backstory has many elements to it, and keeps your eyes stuck to the pages wanting more! Reading the other books in this amazing series is a must.
Elena has been kidnapped in an earlier book in this series and still suffers from nightmares and wants nothing to do with her old life. And that is a problem for Maximo, as he is the new Don of the Pontrelli Family. And Elena is HIS!
His love and devotion for Elena is unstoppable. He wants to have her love him as he loves her!
Arriving back to New York, Elena already has plans to flee. New York only brings back the horrors of when she was kidnapped. A time in her life that she would rather forget.
As with all Mafia stories there is a lot of darkness in the back story as Max and Elena try to find a happy medium that they can co exist together. Elena planning her escape doesn't realise that Maximo finds her plans on her computer.....and so the timeline for his marriage to her is brought forward. He intends to keep her with him, whatever it takes! Just your usual Mafia drama.....
A sassy strong woman has emerged from her prior trauma and Elena refuses to allow any Mafia Don or his associates to frighten her anymore.
I loved this story in its entirety and with all the ups and downs, plus all the Mafia drama that evolves as the story develops keeps you vested in Elena forgiving Max as he forces her to become his wife under duress.
What starts as mixed feelings for Elena towards Max.....one being high on her list is hatred for Max and anything associated to the Mafia families.
But feelings do changes as the story unfolds and Elena finds that during their honeymoon she begins to feel an attraction towards her husband!
Plenty of open door spice as they find that love blooms from an unsteady start.
But all best are off as there is a rat within the Italian Mafia families and Elena is kidnapped.
Maximo is happy to give up his own life if it means that Elena is saved.
Of course a great twist in the story as both Elena and Maximo's sister, Julianna fight for their lives and try to escape their kidnappers.
As with all Mafia families they band together to help their own and Maximo is rescued by Dimitri, who then takes him to Elena and Julianna where he finds that Elena has already disposed of one of her Kidnappers and he ends the other.
Love has no bounds in this story as old and new relationships are formed....and as for the next instalment in this amazing series....none other than Julianna and her bodyguard Niall Bane in Forbidden Bride!

“That’s my sister! You’re a dead man, Niall Bane.”......
Can't wait!!









146 reviews
February 24, 2026
Brutal Proposal is the fifth book in the Twisted Arrangement series. Elena has been terrified of the mafia world for a while. She went through some trauma a few years ago and went to Italy to heal there. She met Maximo her protector, but didn’t think anything of it since they rarely talked. She liked him but she was also scared of men. Back in New York she has made a decision to say goodbye to her family. She wants to start a new life somewhere else where she can be away from the mafia world and live out her dreams. There no one can ever hurt her again. However, the minute she lands she’s shocked to see Maximo there telling her that she’s gonna live with him while she gets adjusted. She’s blindsided even more when he proposes they get married in order for him to solidify his leadership as Don. She does not want to be trapped in this life, but he’s making it very hard for her.

Maximo Pontreli has been in love with Elena a long time. From the minute, he met her something about her just drew him to her. He’s been waiting for the day he can finally make her his bride. He’s been waiting for years and now that she’s finally back in New York, he is not gonna waste his opportunity. The moment she arrives, he picks her up at the airport and tells her that she will now live with him for her protection. When he finds out she’s planning on leaving, he proposes to her. He will not make this easy for her and will not let her run. If she does, he will find her and bring her back. He knows she feels something for him, but she’s afraid. He’s trying to be patient but is tired of waiting. Will she give into how she feels or run away?

Cassia Quinn had me in tears. All Elena has ever wanted to do is escape the mafia life. Even if she does like Maximo, she doesn’t know if she can trust him because he represents everything she hates. I felt bad for Maximo. He didn’t know how to go about it. He could’ve just told her how he felt, but instead he felt he had to strong arm her into being his wife rather than let her fall in love with him. The chemistry is undeniable which led to very beautiful moments between them. The sweeter he was with her, the more she fell for him. However, she was still conflicted about her feelings. She never knew if he was being honest or playing her. This was definitely an emotional roller coaster. I was on the edge of my seat. I was crying, laughing, and sometimes I was yelling at my kindle. It was filled with drama, danger, hilarious banter, betrayal, romantic, moments, suspense, and many shocking twists. I’m so happy there is one more. I love these couples.
Profile Image for kymagirl.
6,511 reviews89 followers
March 4, 2026
He’ll stop at nothing to claim her. She’ll do anything to escape him.

Elena thought she could outrun the past, but the mafia world is impossible to escape. After years away, she returns to New York, determined to say goodbye to the family that abandoned her and start fresh. But when her protector, Maximo, proposes an unyielding marriage, her freedom feels further out of reach than ever.

Maximo has always wanted Elena, not just as a family obligation, but as the woman he believes is meant to be his. Now that he’s the don, his obsession grows darker, and his control over her tightens. With each passing day, Elena feels drawn to him, despite every instinct telling her to flee. But obsession doesn’t let you go so easily.

Their dynamic shifts from forceful proximity to an intense clash of wills. Power, passion, and pain intertwine as they struggle to claim their truths. Elena must decide if she can ever be free or if Maximo’s unrelenting hold is the future she never wanted but can’t walk away from.

Elena, scarred by her past and determined to escape the mafia world, confronts her growing attraction to Maximo. She learns to navigate her fears and discovers her own capacity for love. Maximo, obsessed with control, transforms as he realizes his feelings for Elena go beyond possession, showing tenderness and emotional depth. Their relationship evolves into a complex, intertwined bond where trust, passion, and understanding help them forge a future together.

A dark, hot, enemies to lovers mafia romance where power, control, and obsession collide. It’s a story of survival, trust, and the struggle for freedom in a world built on dominance. Elena fights against a past that won’t let go, while Maximo’s determination to claim her tests their limits. Bound by fate and dark desires, they confront love, fear, and the messy journey of healing.

The Elevator Pitch: A woman, scarred by a past she can’t escape, returns to a city that still haunts her, only to be bound by a possessive protector who wants nothing more than to claim her. As their passions and power struggles collide, the line between obsession and love blurs, and both must face the dark shadows of their desires. In a world built on control and domination, they’ll fight for freedom, trust, and a future neither of them ever imagined.

Heat Level: 🔥🔥 Hot
196 reviews7 followers
February 26, 2026
Brutal Proposal is the fifth book in the Twisted Arrangement series. Elena just wants to escape the mafia life and heal in peace, but the second she touches down in New York to say goodbye to her family, Maximo Pontreli—the man who’s been secretly pining for her for four years—is there to hijack her plans. He’s the new Don and decides the only way to keep her from running is to force her into a marriage she never asked for. It’s that classic "he falls first and falls harder" energy, and I was hooked from the very first page!

Can we talk about Maximo for a second? For a ruthless mafia man, he is such a surprising cinnamon roll when it comes to Elena. I loved seeing this "macho" guy get flustered and focus entirely on her pleasure; it made him so much more lovable than your typical cold-hearted lead. Elena’s journey was also so moving—she’s wounded and terrified of the world he represents, but her growth into a woman who finds her own strength was beautiful to watch. The chemistry between them is undeniable, but it’s definitely an emotional rollercoaster. I went from crying to yelling at my Kindle, especially with all the backstabbing, danger, and the shocking reveal of who was actually behind her past abduction!

The story flows at breakneck speed, and before I knew it, I was at the epilogue with a huge smile on my face. It’s got the perfect blend of drama, hilarious banter, and just enough suspense to keep your heart racing. I’m already desperate for the next book (the sister and the bodyguard?! Sign me up!), but for now, I’m just basking in this HEA. I’m not a snitch so I won’t reveal the culprit here, but I’ve posted my full "conspiracy theory" and all my favorite highlights on Goodreads—link in bio to see the breakdown! 📖✨
Profile Image for Amanda Boudnauth.
13 reviews
March 2, 2026
This book is a page turner, I started it last night and fell asleep while reading, then I spent the entire morning finishing it. I read it as a standalone, even though it’s the 5th book in the series. Elena and Maximo were a great couple to read. Maximo is utterly obsessed with Elena and I’m here for it, he’s the definition of “he falls first and falls harder”.

The is a story full of romance, family and betrayals. The chemistry between Elena and Maximo is brilliant. Maximo doesn’t won’t let her go, typical mafia man things…but I love how even though ehe does crazy things to keep her with him, he respects her. He’s genuinely interested in what stories she writes and he is patient with her, fully aware of the trauma that haunts her. One thing that I love is that he knows the difference between punishment and actually hurting his partner.

Elena doesn’t want to continue her life in the mafia after being traumatized after getting kidnapped by enemies and it still haunts her to this day. She’s then forced into a marriage with Maximo, the Pontrelli Don after she comes back to New York, where the mafia is. All she wants is to start a new life in peace, but Maximo is making it very difficult for her to achieve this life. Her character grows signinficantly throughout the book, she decides not to let what happened to her hold her back from what she wants.

Maximo has been waiting four years for Elena to be his. She caught his attention the moment they met each other. He knew she’s the only one for him. He won’t let anyone separate them. He shows his love in his own way, but he always does his best to be sweet to her and to be the man she wants.

I’ll definitely be reading the other books in the series!
43 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 20, 2026
If you’re looking for a gripping mafia romance that will consume you from the very first page, "Brutal Proposal" by Cassia Quinn is an absolute must-read! It is a dark, intense, and incredibly addictive story where the fight for freedom clashes with a dangerous obsession.

​Why is it worth reading?

​A Hero Who Takes No Prisoners: Maximo Pontrelli is the definition of "he falls first." His devotion to Elena borders on obsession—he counts every second until he can finally claim her as his queen. He is the kind of hero who would burn the world down for his woman (the touch her and die trope at its finest!).

​A Strong and Determined Heroine: Elena is no fragile doll. Her desperate desire to escape the monsters of her past and her fight for a life of her own make you root for her from the very beginning.

​Tension You Can Cut With a Knife: The forced marriage and runaway bride motifs create an incredible dynamic. The forced proximity between these two generates sparks that practically burn through the pages.

​In Short:
​This is the perfect read for fans of darker themes, where love is possessive, loyalty is absolute, and escape is... nearly impossible. Cassia Quinn has created a world where the line between protector and monster is razor-thin, making this story impossible to put down!

​My Rating: 5/5 ⭐

Huge thank you to Cassia Quinn for the ARC! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Elsa Reyna.
476 reviews10 followers
March 2, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five Stars — Addictive, Emotional, and So Worth It

This book completely surprised me in the best way. What started as a mafia romance quickly turned into something deeper and more emotionally layered than I expected. I couldn’t stop flipping pages — every chapter pulled me further in.

The hero isn’t your typical cold, untouchable mafia boss. Yes, he’s powerful and possessive, but there’s a vulnerability in his internal monologue that adds so much depth to his character. Watching him fall — and fall hard — was honestly one of my favorite parts.

The heroine has a sharp tongue and a stubborn streak a mile wide. She definitely made me want to shake her a few times, but in a way that made the tension even better. It’s obvious what’s happening between them long before she’s ready to admit it, which makes the slow unraveling of her feelings so satisfying.

There are twists woven throughout that genuinely caught me off guard, keeping the story fresh and unpredictable. And can we talk about the fact that there’s NO third-act breakup? That alone deserves applause.

Tropes you’ll love:
• Mafia king energy
• Strong-willed heroine
• Virgin heroine
• Obsessed and protective hero
• He falls first
• Arranged/forced marriage

Spice level: 🌶🌶🌶½ — perfectly balanced with the emotional depth.

If you’re looking for a mafia romance that delivers tension, devotion, and a satisfying payoff without unnecessary drama at the end, this one absolutely delivers.
Profile Image for Angelina.
356 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 2, 2026
(I was given an ARC to give an honest review)

Another awesome addition to this awesome series! There are 2 main reason's for whether I dislike a character. 1) It's simply the Author fell short in building their character/personality, and I just can't relate or get a feel for them or 2) the Author writes their character so well, that they get me to dislike them as a person verses a character in a book. With me it's a delicate balance, I don't want to dislike a character, but at the same time, I know it will be an awesome read if I'm disliking the person, not the character. This brings me to Elena. In the beginning I almost hated her, she seemed very self centered, her not being able to decide what she wanted, doing something (I won't say what) she knew she shouldn't do, but did anyway. The point between me disliking a character, to where I start to like them, my mind get's it answer, "Was I not liking this character, or was I not liking the person?" About half way through the book, I got my answer, I was disliking the person. So Bravo!
Maximo, I liked him right away. He gave me all the things I like about Mafia men. A little un-hinged, obsessive, dark and yes, being an asshole! He also had a soft side he was willing to share with only Elena. This had all the things I love about the Mafia/Romance genre. There are ones that are WAY darker that I tend to steer clear of, I like the ones that have, 2 great MC's, suspense, great story plot, has some darkness, but not over the top, a little violence, romance, and scorching hot sex scenes. If you want any soft love scenes, this isn't the book for you, all the scenes are intense and panty melting!
Cassia, you've done it again! I loved every minute of Elena's and Max's journey! I'm actually thinking of re-reading this series, but I may wait until Julianna's book. (which I can't wait for!) I'm thinking she may be the last book. When the release date is announced maybe I re-read the series then to get all up to date with the previous characters, then when Julianna's book comes out, they will all be fresh in my mind. ^.^ I hope I will get the honor to get a ARC for that one as well! ^.^
Side Note:
I love the covers of all the books in this series. They are gorgeous and eye catching. You may not want a book judged by it's cover, but with me it's the first thing I notice. Many of the books I read it's because the cover caught my attention. So guess you can say, I do judge a book by it's covers. lol
67 reviews
March 2, 2026
ARC Review

This is a dark Mafia Romance filled with trauma, healing, obsession, tension, drama, action, friendship, family, love and growth. Cassia had me at the edge of my seat with this one and I am so so happy I got to read Maximo and Elena's story.

Our MMC has waited long enough for our FMC. He has loved her for years, the yearning is strong with this one. He knows she needs time and wont do anything until everything is in place however not everything is meant to be planned, sometimes things just happen in the moment, screw the consequences

Our FMC was born into the mafia world but after traumatic events and years staying away she plans to leave for good. However life doesn't always go according to your specific plan, people may have other ideas. Sometimes you dont know what you truly want until you take a step in one direction to realise it may not be the right one and once you figure it out, everything changes and there is no going back.

After each book I have read by Cassia I think I am more excited for the next couple in the series thanks to the teasers she leaves at the end of each book and honestly they just get better so definitely looking forward to the last couples book in the series.
Profile Image for Jessica Cam.
539 reviews5 followers
March 3, 2026
I felt for Elena in the Corrupt Promises. This girl has been through some trauma. She finally feels brave enough to come home from Italy to see her family. But the new Don, Maximo insist that she lives with him until he deems she allowed to live on her own. As soon as she steps foot in their house, she can tell their rare interactions had an impact on him. He has paid attention to her favorite things and made sure she is surrounded by them and feels welcome. Maximo goes feral for Elena soon telling her they will be getting married. This made Elena feel trapped all over again lie she was several year prior. He realizes that he has to earn her love and respect. This man makes mistake after mistake, I get it, he loves her and can never love another. And even though he went about it the wrong way, I loved it! He knew he wanted her, and she wanted him. He knew no one would love her like he would, take care of her or protect her like he would. I love how fierce and strong Elena became and how Maximo unconditionally loves her!
Profile Image for Fatima Barry.
159 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 21, 2026
I am so grateful to have received this as an ARC copy for my honest opinions

This book was absolute PERFECTION ✨ I have no notes! I love Elena and Maximo as separate characters and also them together. They complete each other so well. The way that this man yearns for her and the love they share in this is so palpable.

I love Elena, she reminds me so much of myself and probably many other readers as well. I love how she’s not weak but she’s also not fiery like her sister. She has her own spark and I enjoy that so much.

Now MAXIMO PONTRELLI…. The perfect book boyfriend. He is a literal dream and I am obsessed with this man. I don’t think I like him more than Dimitri but he’s a really close match.

The found family…everything. Loved getting crumbs of all the others, especially my man Dimitri and my girl Arianna.

The plot was plotting as always and I absolutely binged this book. I can’t wait for Forbidden Bride, currently gnawing at the bars of my enclosure for it.
Profile Image for Alyssa.
188 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 22, 2026
I received this as an ARC COPY and so happy that I did. I have read all of the arrangement series books and have been waiting for this one. Can I just say I absolutely loved Maximo he was freaking amazing!! I love how Elena overcame her fears and issues I just wish she had trusted Maximo a little more but I understand her reluctance because of her past trauma. I also hated that she didn’t communicate with her cousins and sister more because they could have helped her so many times. I do love how she did take her life back and fight back when she needed to. I loved their HEA. My only thing was I wish her and Maximo hadn’t been cousins cause that was a little issue for me even though they were still second cousins it was kind of an ick factor but not enough for me to hate it or not enjoy this book and loved the outcome. I definitely recommend it
Profile Image for Alimay.
528 reviews7 followers
February 28, 2026
ARRANGED BRUTALLY

Elena's story is an absolute must read in this series. The Pontrelli women have been through so much tragedy and trauma and none so much as Elena. Her vulnerability and emotions are written with such poise that you can feel them on the page, but it's Maximo's love and belief in her strength that really draws her out of her shell. The men in this series do not disappoint in their continued need to protect, possess and empower these women, Maximo may be brutish in his actions but it is backed by his unwavering love and loyalty. These characters are beautifully written and the story is full of description, depth and twisted goodness. Cassia Quinn has created a series that will draw you, keep you invested in their story and have you staying up for just one more chapter!
Profile Image for Megan .
108 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 21, 2026
*arc review*

Okay so lemme just be clear, I live for mafia romances. This one, this one’s gotta be one of my favourite. It’s dark, intense, the twists are twisty, the tension is everything. The fact this dark mafia don is so obsessed with the mafia princess? Hell, that alone is everything. Maximo is obsessedd with Elena from the minute he sees her, and I mean what’s better than an obsessed man?😮‍💨 elena, she’s been through a lot, probably mildly traumatised but she’s a badass, that one scene just proves it, but you’ll have to read if you wanna know what I’m talking about 👀

I loved this honestly, I can’t wait to see what happens in the next one with Niall and Julianna because I just know it’s gonna be as good 😮‍💨🖤
Profile Image for Petra.
1,527 reviews
February 25, 2026
Brutal Proposal is another great mafia romance in the Twisted Arrangements series.
I absolutely loved this book! Elena and Maximo are a perfect match, even if it might not seem that way at first. The story is captivating and kept me on the edge of my seat, especially towards the end! And Elena is a much stronger character than you might initially think.

~~The very thought devastates me. If I let her go, she’ll take my heart with her. I’ll slowly die in her absence. She’s the only one for me, always has been and always will be.~~(Maximo)

~~He feels like home. Finally, I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be in this world. “I love you.”~~(Elena)

I received an arc of this ebook, and this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
557 reviews4 followers
March 4, 2026
Not as good as the first one

It started out good but went down the rabbit whole very quickly. The MMC turned into a needy wimp. It was ridiculously unrealistic that a mafia Don has not had sex in 4 years. The MFC turned into a betraying spy which endangered a lot of people including gang sexual abuse. The mfc's punishment was being beat with a belt which I expected. However using a belt on her vagina and then taking her brutally was unacceptable for me. I don't understand what authors choose to go to such extremes, shock value maybe? All I know is that it spoils the book for me sexual abuse is not romantic especially by the MMC. I quit reading the book at this point. For these reasons I would not recommend this book.
2,771 reviews34 followers
February 22, 2026
Wow this was a must read. The characters and the plot wouldn't let go from start to finish.

After Mafia princess Elena spent time in Italy after being held prisoner, she returns to America to her family but Mafia Don Maximo has other plans for her.

Maximo and Elena were so right for each other. At first she fought everything Mafia stood for especially the bull dozing Maximo. But aside from the friction that was always there, the attraction grew to irresistible. Maximo wasn't taking no for an answer.

Plot was excellent, characters perfect for the story and I was left wanting more. The writing was easy read and such a pleasure. Can't ask for more!!
Profile Image for Sarabeth.
235 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 24, 2026
Cottage vibes mafia romance (not hockey lol) ✨️

Tropes/synopsis:
Forbidden love (2nd cousin) mafia romance - they don't grow up together. Vrgin FMC and MMC captures the FMC to protect her.

I dont advise this be read as a standalone as it build upon the previous books and a lot happened throughout the series. While the story had a recap, you still wouldn't appreciate this story as much.

Smut scale: 🌶🌶🌶.75
This books has some detailed sex scenes in the second half of the book, with s couple fade to black/closed door references. Bad girl kink and spanking throughout 🍑🖐 Maximo was obsessed with Elena and I loved how he treated her like a queen and did not rush her into anything. The cottage sex scenes were my favorite 💖

Favorite quotes:
"Is that...metal?" 😈👀
"You're a very strange man." "Perhaps. But I'm your very strange man." 😂
Profile Image for Lisa Bing.
6,368 reviews70 followers
February 24, 2026
This was such a great addition to the series and I loved Maximo and Elena together. They fit so well but their journey was a tough one. Expect to feel all the feels in this one, that's for sure. She's got past trauma and only wants to escape the mafia world. However, she's beyond tough and finds her way to becoming an awesome mafia princess ;D Maximo is so devoted to her and has been for years. He went about things in a manner that I wouldn't have chosen but we need tension, drama and twists to be fully engaged...am I right? ;P Of course, we've got lots of that in here, and plenty of hot chemistry, so expect to be glued to your reader when you crack this baby open. So good!
Profile Image for Milena.
7 reviews
March 1, 2026
This was a decent mafia romance that kept me turning the pages. The hero was softer than I'm used to. His inner thoughts showed more emotion than other similar heroes.
The female character annoyed me at times when she was being stubborn (it was obvious to me that she was falling for him but she kept lying to herself).
There were some unexpected twists that took me by surprise.
One of the best things about this book- there is no 3rd act break up.
Some tropes:
*Mafia hero
*sassy heroine
*virgin heroine
*possessive and obsessive hero
*he falls first
*arranged/forced marriage
Spice- 🌶🌶🌶 .5.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Carrie.
151 reviews8 followers
March 3, 2026
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
This is book number 5 of an interconnected series. I read the first 4 so i’m totally caught up and made this read even better. I love a good mafia read and this one did not disappoint! The chemistry between Maximo and Elena was clearly there and i loved them. Maximo is a true protecter of Elena. He has loved her for a long time. There are a lot of different layers in this book which made it interesting and kept my attention as a reader. This is the type of book that you put others in the back burner to read this one instead 😝 Cassia definitely knows how to write good plots! Totally recommend to others!
198 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 19, 2026

I am perfect for you

Elena and Maximo Pontrelli's love story is sensational. Elena is the twin sister who was hiding out in Italy. We've read about her before through the cousins' and her sister's "Twisted Arrangements". These two are unconventional for sure. But even with all the baggage they have personally keeping us entertained, this is a Mafia story. There is so much action going on in this book but it flows at break neck speed. Before you know it you're at the epilogue with a huge smile on your face. I can't wait for the next book Cassia knows how to hold you hostage lol!
42 reviews2 followers
February 24, 2026
Another amazing addition to this series! I would have loved to see a stronger FMC—someone who really fought for what she wanted. While the author stayed true to her characterization, I just couldn’t fully connect with her.

And the MMC—wow—what an egomaniac! He was incredibly bossy at times. But honestly, that’s part of what I love about the Mafia/Romance genre.

Thank you to the author for the ARC. I’m grateful for the opportunity and hope I’ll have the honor of receiving an ARC for the upcoming books as well.

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175 reviews5 followers
February 25, 2026


Ahh I loved this book its so good 🤌🏻🤌🏻Maximo and Elena Love them. I love How Cassia Quinn writes Obsessed MMC😭I mean Maximo is so down bad for her. And always keeps her first😭🤌🏻brings her all fantasies true all her books, a fancy cabin only for them spend time reading Kill me I was so swoony😭Both of them are so good🤌🏻🌚Love LOve it. I love all Cassia Quinn books🤌🏻🤌🏻She is my favourite mafia romance author now 🥰🩷

And Now I am excited for Niall and Julianna’s book - Bodyguard ~Mafia Princess 🔥🔥🔥all those snippets in this book I am so so excited for Forbidden Bride🧚🏻‍♀️
Profile Image for K Webz.
2,066 reviews
February 25, 2026
Brutal Proposal is a combination of drama, danger, suspense, chemistry, betrayal and great banter. Maximo and Elena have a complicated relationship, as he represents everything she hates (mafia) and wants to escape and he has been in love with her for four years.

As their relationship plays out, it is an emotional roller coaster. When he hears she is leaving, he forces her to marry him and while she may be attracted to him, she has trust issues. As their relationship progresses, a softer sweeter side of Maximo emerges and Elena can’t help but fall for him.
Profile Image for Crystal.
6 reviews
March 3, 2026
ARC Review:

This story brings a new twist to mafia romance with an MMC like Maximo who's passionate feelings makes him both dangerous and sexy as sin. As much as our FMC Elena wants to run and hide from the mafia world and the danger it brings, how can she deny a man willing to make her dreams and fantasies a reality. We love to see such a big, strong, and dangerous man be brought to his very knees by the depth of his yearning for the woman who owns his heart.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Johanna.
2,583 reviews45 followers
March 4, 2026
Book 5 of the Twisted Arrangements series. Can be read as a standalone.

'Finally, it’s time to claim my queen.
My obsession.
My forever.'

The characters were very compelling and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. Another great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend!

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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