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Heirs of the Organized #1
Weaponized
Love is a dangerous game…and she's the perfect weapon. A femme fatale mafia princess meets her dark, brooding match in this searing opposites-attract new adult romance
Gráinne
I belong to the mob.
I’m a beautiful, seductive pawn—a weapon in my family’s extensive armory.
It’s why I’m at St. Agnes. Catering to America’s richest and most corrupt, the college is the perfect place to get a world-class education and secure my father’s legacy.
My orders? Choose one of the men on my father’s list and make him want to marry me.
My only rule? Don’t fall in love.
Luca
Most people view me as my brother’s enforcer.
The son of a powerful mafia don, I scare people. Intimidate them until they do what I—what we—want.
Those who aren’t after my family connections think I’m a monster.
But not Gráinne.
She wants me despite my darkness—maybe even because of it.
The problem? She was never meant to be mine.
Heirs of the Organized
Book 1: Weaponized
Book 2: Scandalized
Gráinne
I belong to the mob.
I’m a beautiful, seductive pawn—a weapon in my family’s extensive armory.
It’s why I’m at St. Agnes. Catering to America’s richest and most corrupt, the college is the perfect place to get a world-class education and secure my father’s legacy.
My orders? Choose one of the men on my father’s list and make him want to marry me.
My only rule? Don’t fall in love.
Luca
Most people view me as my brother’s enforcer.
The son of a powerful mafia don, I scare people. Intimidate them until they do what I—what we—want.
Those who aren’t after my family connections think I’m a monster.
But not Gráinne.
She wants me despite my darkness—maybe even because of it.
The problem? She was never meant to be mine.
Heirs of the Organized
Book 1: Weaponized
Book 2: Scandalized
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 8, 2025
64 people are currently reading
549 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Kilburn
5 books18 followersDespite a reading addiction that takes up most of her free time, Kelly Kilburn loves to write her own romance novels. She’s an absolute sucker for a morally grey hero with a twisted path toward happily-ever-after.
Kelly lives in Pittsburgh, Pa., with her partner in crime (otherwise known as her husband) and occasionally their daughter (when she deems them worthy of a visit from college). When she’s not immersed in a romance, Kelly often can be found drinking copious amounts of coffee while watching the deer play in the woods outside her window.
Kelly lives in Pittsburgh, Pa., with her partner in crime (otherwise known as her husband) and occasionally their daughter (when she deems them worthy of a visit from college). When she’s not immersed in a romance, Kelly often can be found drinking copious amounts of coffee while watching the deer play in the woods outside her window.
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August 29, 2025Book Title: Weaponized - Heirs of the Organized Book 1
Author(s): Kelly Kilburn
Publisher(s): Harlequin Romance/Carina Press
Available on KU? ✅
Audiobook? 🙅🏼♀️
🍿 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴: I’m fairly certain that Weaponized by Kelly Kilburn is my very first mafia romance and I was into it. There is quite a bit of action which meant there weren’t any dull moments, and the spice was spicing. 🌶️🍆
🤩 𝚃͏𝚑͏𝚎͏ 𝙱͏𝚎͏𝚜͏𝚝͏ 𝙱͏𝚒͏𝚝͏𝚜͏: I am glad that this is the first book in a new series, and I am hoping Gráinne and Luca will make an appearance in the next book even if it isn’t directly about them. Their chemistry was hot, hot, hot all the way through and there are plenty of open-door scenes throughout the story. I loved how close Gráinne and her brother were, as well as Luca’s relationship with his brother Matteo. The alternating viewpoints between Gráinne and Luca kept things interesting, and I especially loved the second half of the book which had a lot of action. Plus, Gráinne was pretty badass, and she was extremely easy to love as our FMC.
💭 𝘊𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴: There is definitely violence in this book, and I would suggest checking triggers prior to reading, but it was a fantastic debut. I thought it was the perfect length at just over 300 pages, and I was completely caught up in the characters and the story. Luca was such a droolworthy MMC, and he along with the other characters came to life perfectly thanks to Kilburn's writing. I can’t wait to dive into the next book of the series when it comes out!
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 📁🍆👰🏼♀️🥊
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
𝙼𝚢 𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Author(s): Kelly Kilburn
Publisher(s): Harlequin Romance/Carina Press
Available on KU? ✅
Audiobook? 🙅🏼♀️
🍿 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴: I’m fairly certain that Weaponized by Kelly Kilburn is my very first mafia romance and I was into it. There is quite a bit of action which meant there weren’t any dull moments, and the spice was spicing. 🌶️🍆
🤩 𝚃͏𝚑͏𝚎͏ 𝙱͏𝚎͏𝚜͏𝚝͏ 𝙱͏𝚒͏𝚝͏𝚜͏: I am glad that this is the first book in a new series, and I am hoping Gráinne and Luca will make an appearance in the next book even if it isn’t directly about them. Their chemistry was hot, hot, hot all the way through and there are plenty of open-door scenes throughout the story. I loved how close Gráinne and her brother were, as well as Luca’s relationship with his brother Matteo. The alternating viewpoints between Gráinne and Luca kept things interesting, and I especially loved the second half of the book which had a lot of action. Plus, Gráinne was pretty badass, and she was extremely easy to love as our FMC.
💭 𝘊𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴: There is definitely violence in this book, and I would suggest checking triggers prior to reading, but it was a fantastic debut. I thought it was the perfect length at just over 300 pages, and I was completely caught up in the characters and the story. Luca was such a droolworthy MMC, and he along with the other characters came to life perfectly thanks to Kilburn's writing. I can’t wait to dive into the next book of the series when it comes out!
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 📁🍆👰🏼♀️🥊
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
𝙼𝚢 𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 4, 2025
.˚ ₍ 🪐 ₎ Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin - Romance, and the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
⎯⎯✧ ꩜ ✧⎯⎯
🌟 3.75
.˚ ₍ 💌 ₎ Summary
⤿ Gráinne's purpose was always to serve her family, with her beauty and seduction she is expected to be a weapon to benefit the mob and her father has ensured that it stays that way for her entire life. Her father then sends Gráinne to St. Agnes, a school for the richest and most corrupt, under the instruction to seduce and marry one of the four men he has chosen. This is easy enough, but things get complicated when she starts to fall for Luca, a monster, and the son of a powerful Mafia don and he is one of her four options. The only problem? Gráinne soon becomes attached to Luca, and she will do anything to save the people she loves, even if it means betraying her father.
⎯⎯✧ ꩜ ✧⎯⎯
.˚ ₍ 🧸 ₎ My Thoughts & Impressions
⤿ Though this book was VERY insta-lust, I found myself deeply attached to both Gráinne and Luca. Their sizzling chemistry was great, and though the plot was a bit lacking, for a debut novel it was not bad by any means. I have to admit I cried multiple times while reading this and overall it was an enjoyable, and quick read.
⎯⎯✧ ꩜ ✧⎯⎯
.˚ ₍ 🩰 ₎ Writing Style
⤿ The first 20% of the books wasn't great in my opinion, though it got exponentially better after that. Some of the things in the book, (such as the characters constantly stuttering, and the repeated use of the word "like" even when it wasn't needed) caused the writing style to seem a bit wattpad-ish, but for a debut novel, it was impressive and I would love to read more in this series.
⎯⎯✧ ꩜ ✧⎯⎯
.˚ ₍ 🍒 ₎ TW (Trigger Warnings)
⤿ Weaponized contains highly explicit sexual content, as well as descriptions of alcohol drug use, graphic violence, torture, kidnapping, murder, and sexual assault (not between main characters).
⎯⎯✧ ꩜ ✧⎯⎯
yumi 💖
🪻‧₊˚ pre read┆tysm to NetGalley and Harlequin - Romance for the chance to read this eARC! I love Mafia romance as well as college romance so I'm super excited to dive into this one <3
⎯⎯✧ ꩜ ✧⎯⎯
🌟 3.75
.˚ ₍ 💌 ₎ Summary
⤿ Gráinne's purpose was always to serve her family, with her beauty and seduction she is expected to be a weapon to benefit the mob and her father has ensured that it stays that way for her entire life. Her father then sends Gráinne to St. Agnes, a school for the richest and most corrupt, under the instruction to seduce and marry one of the four men he has chosen. This is easy enough, but things get complicated when she starts to fall for Luca, a monster, and the son of a powerful Mafia don and he is one of her four options. The only problem? Gráinne soon becomes attached to Luca, and she will do anything to save the people she loves, even if it means betraying her father.
⎯⎯✧ ꩜ ✧⎯⎯
.˚ ₍ 🧸 ₎ My Thoughts & Impressions
⤿ Though this book was VERY insta-lust, I found myself deeply attached to both Gráinne and Luca. Their sizzling chemistry was great, and though the plot was a bit lacking, for a debut novel it was not bad by any means. I have to admit I cried multiple times while reading this and overall it was an enjoyable, and quick read.
⎯⎯✧ ꩜ ✧⎯⎯
.˚ ₍ 🩰 ₎ Writing Style
⤿ The first 20% of the books wasn't great in my opinion, though it got exponentially better after that. Some of the things in the book, (such as the characters constantly stuttering, and the repeated use of the word "like" even when it wasn't needed) caused the writing style to seem a bit wattpad-ish, but for a debut novel, it was impressive and I would love to read more in this series.
⎯⎯✧ ꩜ ✧⎯⎯
.˚ ₍ 🍒 ₎ TW (Trigger Warnings)
⤿ Weaponized contains highly explicit sexual content, as well as descriptions of alcohol drug use, graphic violence, torture, kidnapping, murder, and sexual assault (not between main characters).
⎯⎯✧ ꩜ ✧⎯⎯
yumi 💖
🪻‧₊˚ pre read┆tysm to NetGalley and Harlequin - Romance for the chance to read this eARC! I love Mafia romance as well as college romance so I'm super excited to dive into this one <3
July 2, 2025
This book had a slow start, but then was so much fun to read! By chapter three, I was completely hooked. One thing I would note is that this book is definitely not dark academia - the college setting is barely a factor in the plot and the romance. That said, it was still a fun read, especially with the correct expectations.
I loved the romance in this. Gráinne and Luca were so toxic and so codependent from basically the moment they met, and I ate up every moment of it. Luca was so inexperienced but such a softie for her and only her, and man obsessed is one of my favorite relationship dynamics to read.
The plot was interesting, focused on mafia politics, familial dysfunction, and betrayal. I wish there’d been more of it, and more Gráinne’s badass-ness - if there had been, this easily would have been a five star read for me. This book had a lot of spice, more than there was plot, but I knew that going in.
I’d recommend to fans of instalust, touch-her-and-die, and predators getting what they deserve.
Huge thank you to Kelly Kilburn, Carina Press, and Harlequin Romance for the advance review copy! All opinions are my own!
I loved the romance in this. Gráinne and Luca were so toxic and so codependent from basically the moment they met, and I ate up every moment of it. Luca was so inexperienced but such a softie for her and only her, and man obsessed is one of my favorite relationship dynamics to read.
The plot was interesting, focused on mafia politics, familial dysfunction, and betrayal. I wish there’d been more of it, and more Gráinne’s badass-ness - if there had been, this easily would have been a five star read for me. This book had a lot of spice, more than there was plot, but I knew that going in.
I’d recommend to fans of instalust, touch-her-and-die, and predators getting what they deserve.
Huge thank you to Kelly Kilburn, Carina Press, and Harlequin Romance for the advance review copy! All opinions are my own!
December 20, 2025
I liked this! It was a little insta-love and mushy but a fun story overall. If it was going to be a mafia story though I would’ve liked to see a bit more of that aspect rather than just knowing they’re part of the families.
I’ll be reading the next one for sure though!
I’ll be reading the next one for sure though!
September 19, 2025
4.5 🌟
"Beauty is a burden that can be weaponized." (Pg 9)
Mafia Romance
Gráinne is basically a mafia princess on the hunt for her prince, courtesy of orders from her father. She was bred to be ruthless, cunning, dangerous... and drop dead gorgeous. The candidates didn't stand a chance, let alone the unlikely underdog.
"All of my life, I’ve been a temptress. This is the first time I’ve been tempted." (Pg 51)
Gráinne... she finds herself in uncharted territory on a couple of fronts and doesn't quite know how to react or think. It's kind of cute. Like the tables have turned.
Love the relationships that form, the angst, and heartbreak. It's a mafia romance, but not really wholly dark or sadistic (except for a specific point) as some tend to be. I mean, there are dark aspects, but the majority of it happened off-page and in the past. It was gratifying. Revenge. Just deserves. HEA mafia style.
"I would seek vengeance with both a clear head and bloody fists. I would refine my demon into a weapon of precision. That was how I would become both the man and the monster my angel needed." (Pg 306)
eARC courtesy of NetGalley / Harlequin / Carina Press
"Beauty is a burden that can be weaponized." (Pg 9)
Mafia Romance
Gráinne is basically a mafia princess on the hunt for her prince, courtesy of orders from her father. She was bred to be ruthless, cunning, dangerous... and drop dead gorgeous. The candidates didn't stand a chance, let alone the unlikely underdog.
"All of my life, I’ve been a temptress. This is the first time I’ve been tempted." (Pg 51)
Gráinne... she finds herself in uncharted territory on a couple of fronts and doesn't quite know how to react or think. It's kind of cute. Like the tables have turned.
Love the relationships that form, the angst, and heartbreak. It's a mafia romance, but not really wholly dark or sadistic (except for a specific point) as some tend to be. I mean, there are dark aspects, but the majority of it happened off-page and in the past. It was gratifying. Revenge. Just deserves. HEA mafia style.
"I would seek vengeance with both a clear head and bloody fists. I would refine my demon into a weapon of precision. That was how I would become both the man and the monster my angel needed." (Pg 306)
eARC courtesy of NetGalley / Harlequin / Carina Press
July 30, 2025
4 Angel stars
3.75🌶
3.75🌶
July 16, 2025
ARC Review: Weaponized
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Weaponized is a dark, spicy mafia romance with a fun twist—this time, it’s the heroine who’s the real weapon. Gráinne is confident, cunning, and totally in control. She knows exactly how to use her looks and charm to get what she wants, and honestly, it’s refreshing to see a FMC who leads when it comes to the spice.
Luca, the broody enforcer type, brings the grit and intensity you’d expect in a mafia romance, but it’s Gráinne who often feels more dangerous. Their chemistry is electric, especially with that opposites-attract tension, but they fall for each other fast—maybe too fast. That quick love arc made the spicy scenes feel a little drawn out since there wasn’t quite enough emotional build-up to balance things out.
The pacing is a bit uneven and the plot hits some familiar beats, but there’s enough suspense and drama to keep things interesting. If you’re into dominant heroines, morally gray MMCs, and steamy power plays, this one’s worth picking up. It’s not perfect, but it’s definitely a fun ride.
Thank you to @hqn_shamelessromantics @kellykilburnauthor and @netgalley for providing me with an ARC to review!
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Weaponized is a dark, spicy mafia romance with a fun twist—this time, it’s the heroine who’s the real weapon. Gráinne is confident, cunning, and totally in control. She knows exactly how to use her looks and charm to get what she wants, and honestly, it’s refreshing to see a FMC who leads when it comes to the spice.
Luca, the broody enforcer type, brings the grit and intensity you’d expect in a mafia romance, but it’s Gráinne who often feels more dangerous. Their chemistry is electric, especially with that opposites-attract tension, but they fall for each other fast—maybe too fast. That quick love arc made the spicy scenes feel a little drawn out since there wasn’t quite enough emotional build-up to balance things out.
The pacing is a bit uneven and the plot hits some familiar beats, but there’s enough suspense and drama to keep things interesting. If you’re into dominant heroines, morally gray MMCs, and steamy power plays, this one’s worth picking up. It’s not perfect, but it’s definitely a fun ride.
Thank you to @hqn_shamelessromantics @kellykilburnauthor and @netgalley for providing me with an ARC to review!
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July 2, 2025Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance, Crime, New Adult Romance
Miniseries
Heirs of the Organized (Book #1)
Miniseries
Heirs of the Organized (Book #1)
June 9, 2025
*I was given this book as an eArc but my review is based solely on my own thoughts and opinions*
I loved it! It’s a good mafia romance, has all the things you would want. I love the mmc Luca. The troubled silent but tough and sweet types are actually my fav. He was very loveable but also you knew he could mess you up. I do feel like the mfc could have had more depth, I didn’t get much of her personality, but I was still rooting for her. She was made into a soldier, to be fake and not herself so getting to be her for the first time in her life must have been a big change but I still would have like to get to know her better as a person and personality. Nonetheless, it was an easy read as in I didn’t want to put it down! Side characters are likeable and fun. I hope we get a sequel for some of the other character love stories! I know the next one is of two of them, but hope we get even more! I’m invested now
4-4.5 stars :)
I loved it! It’s a good mafia romance, has all the things you would want. I love the mmc Luca. The troubled silent but tough and sweet types are actually my fav. He was very loveable but also you knew he could mess you up. I do feel like the mfc could have had more depth, I didn’t get much of her personality, but I was still rooting for her. She was made into a soldier, to be fake and not herself so getting to be her for the first time in her life must have been a big change but I still would have like to get to know her better as a person and personality. Nonetheless, it was an easy read as in I didn’t want to put it down! Side characters are likeable and fun. I hope we get a sequel for some of the other character love stories! I know the next one is of two of them, but hope we get even more! I’m invested now
4-4.5 stars :)
July 11, 2025
I actually have no words for how much I enjoyed this book! This was my first book by this author and I will 100% be reading the second. Gráinne was a strong powerful woman living a wealthy life where men rule and women are looked upon as trophies. Her cruel father has used her as a pawn her whole entire life. Luca, my sweet Luca. Such a shy yet so so so dominant man. Watching him open up and obsess over Gráinne was everything.
I think the side characters were well thought of and I loved the role they played. The author set this book up perfectly for Elizabeth and Matteo to get their own book and I’m honestly looking so forward to that. I loved the pacing, the plot/storyline, I liked the character development, I wish there was a bit more grovelling at the end. Other than that it was a really strong first book to the series.
Read if you like:
-Mafia romance
-Who did this to you?
-Strong FMC/Femme Fetale
-Shy but morally grey MMC
-First Love
-Forbidden Romance
-Mafia/Elite School
Thank you Harlequin Romance + Shameless PR for this arc!
I think the side characters were well thought of and I loved the role they played. The author set this book up perfectly for Elizabeth and Matteo to get their own book and I’m honestly looking so forward to that. I loved the pacing, the plot/storyline, I liked the character development, I wish there was a bit more grovelling at the end. Other than that it was a really strong first book to the series.
Read if you like:
-Mafia romance
-Who did this to you?
-Strong FMC/Femme Fetale
-Shy but morally grey MMC
-First Love
-Forbidden Romance
-Mafia/Elite School
Thank you Harlequin Romance + Shameless PR for this arc!
July 30, 2025
3.2⭐️
I would like to start by saying that this brought back memories of middle school me reading one direction/YA fanfics on wattpad.
I think the story was fun it was a mix of mafia/university setting which was fun.
Grainne was a fun FMC and I think could’ve been more badass but overall l liked her.
Luca I think is definitely on the spectrum not in nerdy way but in the shy idk if she likes me way and now that I’m writing this idk if that makes sense.
I liked both characters but I think their relationship advanced way too quickly so it felt cheesy.
I would like to start by saying that this brought back memories of middle school me reading one direction/YA fanfics on wattpad.
I think the story was fun it was a mix of mafia/university setting which was fun.
Grainne was a fun FMC and I think could’ve been more badass but overall l liked her.
Luca I think is definitely on the spectrum not in nerdy way but in the shy idk if she likes me way and now that I’m writing this idk if that makes sense.
I liked both characters but I think their relationship advanced way too quickly so it felt cheesy.
July 11, 2025
This book was a lot of fun if you enjoy mafia books. While plenty of dark things happen, the main characters themselves are easy to love and root for - and their obsession with each other was more sweet than dark. The internal monologues of the characters were much more human and relatable than you sometimes see in mafia romance.
Black cat badass FMC, enforcer MMC is a secret cinnamon roll, families are enemies, with some found family vibes
4.25 stars rounded up
Black cat badass FMC, enforcer MMC is a secret cinnamon roll, families are enemies, with some found family vibes
4.25 stars rounded up
May 30, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! I love mafia romance stories and this one did not disappoint. The only thing I wish is that we would have seen more interaction between Gráinne and her father. I feel like her relationship with him could have been expanded upon more. If you are looking for a very spicy college mafia romance do not hesitate on picking this one up! I cannot wait to read the stories of the other characters soon!
June 17, 2025
First Thank you for choosing me to be an ARC reader for this book.
Second. I really loved this book. Mafia is one of my favorite tropes. And I loved the twist it had. It wasn’t your normal mafia dad sold daughter or she had to marry certain man for an alliance. Yes it was very very similar but it had a little twist. You’ll see when you read what I mean.
And I love broken each of them feel yet how strong they are. And how he is such a teddy bear inside.
I also loved the character development of the main characters. You gave us so much without to much. So many authors I feel give to much and make book too long and readers lose track and you didn’t.
You made me feel so much for them. My heart broke for them. A definite read. Especially for all the mafia lovers out there!!!! Oh yeah I can’t forget the most important part lol. The spice was definitely spicing lol.
Second. I really loved this book. Mafia is one of my favorite tropes. And I loved the twist it had. It wasn’t your normal mafia dad sold daughter or she had to marry certain man for an alliance. Yes it was very very similar but it had a little twist. You’ll see when you read what I mean.
And I love broken each of them feel yet how strong they are. And how he is such a teddy bear inside.
I also loved the character development of the main characters. You gave us so much without to much. So many authors I feel give to much and make book too long and readers lose track and you didn’t.
You made me feel so much for them. My heart broke for them. A definite read. Especially for all the mafia lovers out there!!!! Oh yeah I can’t forget the most important part lol. The spice was definitely spicing lol.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
Grainne was raised to survive in a world full of power and control, and Luca? He’s the storm waiting at the edge of it all. Together, their story is a slow descent into something dangerously irresistible. You can feel the weight of every glance, every choice, every word left unsaid.
This is not your light and fluffy romance. It’s dark, emotional, and beautifully tense. Luca and Grainne are unforgettable—flawed, layered, and so easy to become obsessed with. This book consumed me, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
❤️🔥 Forbidden love
❤️🔥 Angsty, spicy
❤️🔥 Irish x Italian mafia
❤️🔥 Opposites attract
❤️🔥 Standalone in a new series
❤️🔥“Touch her and I’ll unalive you”
❤️🔥 Jealous, morally gray hero
❤️🔥 Femme fatale
❤️🔥 Unique college setting
❤️🔥 HEA
2 of my favourite quotes:
“Angel, I’m all tied in knots over you.”
“He really is beautiful up close”
🌶️🌶️
Grainne was raised to survive in a world full of power and control, and Luca? He’s the storm waiting at the edge of it all. Together, their story is a slow descent into something dangerously irresistible. You can feel the weight of every glance, every choice, every word left unsaid.
This is not your light and fluffy romance. It’s dark, emotional, and beautifully tense. Luca and Grainne are unforgettable—flawed, layered, and so easy to become obsessed with. This book consumed me, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
❤️🔥 Forbidden love
❤️🔥 Angsty, spicy
❤️🔥 Irish x Italian mafia
❤️🔥 Opposites attract
❤️🔥 Standalone in a new series
❤️🔥“Touch her and I’ll unalive you”
❤️🔥 Jealous, morally gray hero
❤️🔥 Femme fatale
❤️🔥 Unique college setting
❤️🔥 HEA
2 of my favourite quotes:
“Angel, I’m all tied in knots over you.”
“He really is beautiful up close”
July 10, 2025
* I had the opportunity to read this as an eArc, but my review is based on my own opinions.*
I must say I mostly enjoy reading mafia/underworld themed books/novels and I must say, that this one really outdid my expectations.
I just finished reading the book, and I’m still thinking about it—which in my opinion is always a good sign. What really stood out to me were the characters. Luca and Gráinne aren’t your typical leads, unlike most mafia/underworld themed books the fmc is often represented as weak, whereas Gráinne is not. She is bad-ass and is someone that can stand up for herself.
I found myself invested in them pretty early on, not just because of what was happening around them, but because of who they are and how they respond to everything thrown their way.
Also the spice is really well-written and perfect for the new adult genre. I highly recommend the book!
Thank you for the ARC team for the copy.
I must say I mostly enjoy reading mafia/underworld themed books/novels and I must say, that this one really outdid my expectations.
I just finished reading the book, and I’m still thinking about it—which in my opinion is always a good sign. What really stood out to me were the characters. Luca and Gráinne aren’t your typical leads, unlike most mafia/underworld themed books the fmc is often represented as weak, whereas Gráinne is not. She is bad-ass and is someone that can stand up for herself.
I found myself invested in them pretty early on, not just because of what was happening around them, but because of who they are and how they respond to everything thrown their way.
Also the spice is really well-written and perfect for the new adult genre. I highly recommend the book!
Thank you for the ARC team for the copy.
July 6, 2025
Weaponized, Heirs of The Organized 1, by Kelly Kilburn: Book Review
Many thanks to Harlequin Books & the Author for the eARC!
“Beauty is a burden that can be weaponized. Under its shiny veneer, the core can be sharp, jagged, and ugly.”
Genre:
Dark Romance
New Adult Dark Romance
Contemporary
Tropes & Themes:
Mafia Princess
Irish Mob Family
Dark Academia
New Adult/NA themes: College Parties, Lecture Hall, Campus Life
TWs ☑ (Typical of Dark Romance, including violence, torture, kidnapping, SA)
Insta-Lust-to-Love
Mafia Alliances & Boundaries
Tortured Hero
Morally-gray characters
Past Trauma
Protective Older Brother
“Gráinne, don’t disappoint me. You won’t like the consequences.”
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Gráinne O’Toole, eldest daughter of Cormac O’Toole, New York’s ruthless head of the Irish Mob, was born to fulfill her Da’s wishes. Out of his own self-interest, he’s trained her like a soldier to be a femme fatale, use her pretty face and surgically sculpted figure to get into enemy territory and take her target down to his knees: through seduction or violence, (both of which she is fully capable). Under the veil of her beauty is a college-educated street fighter with smarts and a fierce loyalty to her family, but at her own expense. Her father’s latest assignment for his daughter is to seduce and marry one of four expected Mafia Heirs, to advance her Da’s self-interested ulterior motives. She’s understands her role as a Mafia princess, after all it was the life she was born into and she’s never challenged her role. But when she attends St. Agnes University, a grooming ground that strengthens or denies Mafia alliances, and where marriages are arranged out of duty to family, not love — this break from her Father has her considering new possibilities, chasing her college dreams, and even falling in love. As a Junior in college, her older and overprotective brother, Rowan, keeps her in his sights and introduces her to who’s who around campus, including the men in the thick folder her father left her to study. But one of those men has her absolutely flustered… second-guessing everything from her feelings, to a sense of overall betrayal she feels when she gets closer than she ever expected to the Larozzi family, a powerful Italian Mafia clan.
"If you wrapped sunshine in grace and then dipped it in honey, you’d have that very girl. Yeah, I know what I sound like. I said what I said. Thing is, I don’t go for girls like that . I know what they see when they look at me. I’m too much of everything and not enough of anything, so I don’t expect her to focus on me. But she does. I’m not sure if she feels the weight of my stare or what, but she locks eyes with mine and doesn’t turn away."
Luca Larozzi is a beast, devoted to his family, college studies, and the Mafia world he understands all too well as the son of Victor Larozzi, NY Italian Mafia Boss. When Rowan O’Toole introduces his sister to him, he’s mesmerized by her in ways he’s never felt, but acting on those feelings doesn’t come as easy to him as his twin brother and other buddies.
Told in dual POV offered more expansive story world-building in addition to the all important “two sides of the same story.” Often one perspective would pick up in the next chapter, a seamless transition between Gráinne and Luca’s POVs that made for a smooth reading experience.
Weaponized, a NA Dark Romance, is a wonderful debut by Author Kelly Kilburn. I loved these characters so much, especially Gráinne, Rowan, and Luca. I read this novel quicker than usual (for me) in two sittings, and even though I’ve read my weight in Mafia romances this year, this one surprised me in the best way. Weaponized is fresh with a new, unique concept: a college romance with a Mafia backdrop. And it just worked. The plot came together beautifully — dark and lyrical like a Lana Del Rey song. One unlikely but true pairing that burned hot and quickly, only for that same spark to be snuffed out by misunderstandings and bad alliances. This dark romance evokes a rollercoaster range of intense emotions, perfect for readers who crave the (fictional ) and contrasting combinations of lust and fear, love and disgust, pain and pleasure, and vengeance and forgiveness.
I’m glad this book is part of a series and I hope Rowan gets his own story someday!
5 stars, or beautiful heartshaped-Celtic knots!
Full Review: https://awellreadwomanblog.wordpress....
Many thanks to Harlequin Books & the Author for the eARC!
“Beauty is a burden that can be weaponized. Under its shiny veneer, the core can be sharp, jagged, and ugly.”
Genre:
Dark Romance
New Adult Dark Romance
Contemporary
Tropes & Themes:
Mafia Princess
Irish Mob Family
Dark Academia
New Adult/NA themes: College Parties, Lecture Hall, Campus Life
TWs ☑ (Typical of Dark Romance, including violence, torture, kidnapping, SA)
Insta-Lust-to-Love
Mafia Alliances & Boundaries
Tortured Hero
Morally-gray characters
Past Trauma
Protective Older Brother
“Gráinne, don’t disappoint me. You won’t like the consequences.”
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Gráinne O’Toole, eldest daughter of Cormac O’Toole, New York’s ruthless head of the Irish Mob, was born to fulfill her Da’s wishes. Out of his own self-interest, he’s trained her like a soldier to be a femme fatale, use her pretty face and surgically sculpted figure to get into enemy territory and take her target down to his knees: through seduction or violence, (both of which she is fully capable). Under the veil of her beauty is a college-educated street fighter with smarts and a fierce loyalty to her family, but at her own expense. Her father’s latest assignment for his daughter is to seduce and marry one of four expected Mafia Heirs, to advance her Da’s self-interested ulterior motives. She’s understands her role as a Mafia princess, after all it was the life she was born into and she’s never challenged her role. But when she attends St. Agnes University, a grooming ground that strengthens or denies Mafia alliances, and where marriages are arranged out of duty to family, not love — this break from her Father has her considering new possibilities, chasing her college dreams, and even falling in love. As a Junior in college, her older and overprotective brother, Rowan, keeps her in his sights and introduces her to who’s who around campus, including the men in the thick folder her father left her to study. But one of those men has her absolutely flustered… second-guessing everything from her feelings, to a sense of overall betrayal she feels when she gets closer than she ever expected to the Larozzi family, a powerful Italian Mafia clan.
"If you wrapped sunshine in grace and then dipped it in honey, you’d have that very girl. Yeah, I know what I sound like. I said what I said. Thing is, I don’t go for girls like that . I know what they see when they look at me. I’m too much of everything and not enough of anything, so I don’t expect her to focus on me. But she does. I’m not sure if she feels the weight of my stare or what, but she locks eyes with mine and doesn’t turn away."
Luca Larozzi is a beast, devoted to his family, college studies, and the Mafia world he understands all too well as the son of Victor Larozzi, NY Italian Mafia Boss. When Rowan O’Toole introduces his sister to him, he’s mesmerized by her in ways he’s never felt, but acting on those feelings doesn’t come as easy to him as his twin brother and other buddies.
Told in dual POV offered more expansive story world-building in addition to the all important “two sides of the same story.” Often one perspective would pick up in the next chapter, a seamless transition between Gráinne and Luca’s POVs that made for a smooth reading experience.
Weaponized, a NA Dark Romance, is a wonderful debut by Author Kelly Kilburn. I loved these characters so much, especially Gráinne, Rowan, and Luca. I read this novel quicker than usual (for me) in two sittings, and even though I’ve read my weight in Mafia romances this year, this one surprised me in the best way. Weaponized is fresh with a new, unique concept: a college romance with a Mafia backdrop. And it just worked. The plot came together beautifully — dark and lyrical like a Lana Del Rey song. One unlikely but true pairing that burned hot and quickly, only for that same spark to be snuffed out by misunderstandings and bad alliances. This dark romance evokes a rollercoaster range of intense emotions, perfect for readers who crave the (fictional ) and contrasting combinations of lust and fear, love and disgust, pain and pleasure, and vengeance and forgiveness.
I’m glad this book is part of a series and I hope Rowan gets his own story someday!
5 stars, or beautiful heartshaped-Celtic knots!
Full Review: https://awellreadwomanblog.wordpress....
December 5, 2025
I enjoyed this book. Love a badass female book. If you want a book where the female kicks butt, this is one of them. Happy reading
Grainne was told by her father that she was only conceived to be a femme fatale. To be used for his gain and power in the mafia/crime world. She was studying in NYU but now her father has her transfer to St. Agnes University in search of a husband. She is giving four options, the heirs to the crime families. Her father tells her he is more inclined to the Larozzi heir Matteo because he thinks he will take over not the older twin Luca. But Grainne falls for Luca the broody and mean looking twin. She falls in love with him and his passiveness. So she decides to play along with her father’s plan, in the meantime her brother Rowan is planning to take their narcissist dad out. The first night she is spying on the twins she learns one of his closed friends is trying to rape a girl so she kicks his ass. Giovanni tells a different story that he was jumped by the girl’s boyfriend and his friends and that he never tried to rape the girl. But his story doesn’t add up and they know he is lying about something. Giovanni discovers that it was Grainne who kicked his ass so he doesn’t like her. She also makes it clear she is not interested in him so his ego takes a hit. He plots against Grainne by placing surveillance cameras in her apartment and discovers a conversation she had with her had were she tells him Luca will propose and the plan is going accordingly. He lies to Luca about her cheating on him with the Irish heir and then play the recording for him. Luca goes crazy and calls Grainne a whore and kicks her out of his house without letting her explain. Grainne tries to tell Luca the truth about her dad and why she lied but Giovanni prevents her from seeing Luca and tries to attack her. Grainne again kicks his ass and he tells his friends he was jumped. Grainne goes to Luca’s dad and tells him everything her dad has done and is planning. She just ask that if he takes retribution he leaves her sister, mom and brother out of it. She sacrificed her self to save her family. Rowan finds out about the cameras and confronts Luca. Luca learns the truth but is too late because Giovanni kidnaps Grainne and ties her down trying to rape her, he beats her because even tied up she fights him. She manages to send a distress signal by pressing the tracker she has on her necklace. Luca receives the notification and goes to find her but when he gets there she it out and beaten. She recovers they set her dad up and Rowan is able to take him out making it look like it was the Russians. Luca and Grainne get back together and he proposes to her.
Grainne was told by her father that she was only conceived to be a femme fatale. To be used for his gain and power in the mafia/crime world. She was studying in NYU but now her father has her transfer to St. Agnes University in search of a husband. She is giving four options, the heirs to the crime families. Her father tells her he is more inclined to the Larozzi heir Matteo because he thinks he will take over not the older twin Luca. But Grainne falls for Luca the broody and mean looking twin. She falls in love with him and his passiveness. So she decides to play along with her father’s plan, in the meantime her brother Rowan is planning to take their narcissist dad out. The first night she is spying on the twins she learns one of his closed friends is trying to rape a girl so she kicks his ass. Giovanni tells a different story that he was jumped by the girl’s boyfriend and his friends and that he never tried to rape the girl. But his story doesn’t add up and they know he is lying about something. Giovanni discovers that it was Grainne who kicked his ass so he doesn’t like her. She also makes it clear she is not interested in him so his ego takes a hit. He plots against Grainne by placing surveillance cameras in her apartment and discovers a conversation she had with her had were she tells him Luca will propose and the plan is going accordingly. He lies to Luca about her cheating on him with the Irish heir and then play the recording for him. Luca goes crazy and calls Grainne a whore and kicks her out of his house without letting her explain. Grainne tries to tell Luca the truth about her dad and why she lied but Giovanni prevents her from seeing Luca and tries to attack her. Grainne again kicks his ass and he tells his friends he was jumped. Grainne goes to Luca’s dad and tells him everything her dad has done and is planning. She just ask that if he takes retribution he leaves her sister, mom and brother out of it. She sacrificed her self to save her family. Rowan finds out about the cameras and confronts Luca. Luca learns the truth but is too late because Giovanni kidnaps Grainne and ties her down trying to rape her, he beats her because even tied up she fights him. She manages to send a distress signal by pressing the tracker she has on her necklace. Luca receives the notification and goes to find her but when he gets there she it out and beaten. She recovers they set her dad up and Rowan is able to take him out making it look like it was the Russians. Luca and Grainne get back together and he proposes to her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2025
Weaponized is the debut novel by Kelly Kilburn, and it is a compelling mafia romance. It is the first book in the Heirs of the Organized book series. Mafia romance is not a genre I’ve read before, but I really enjoyed this novel. The characters were complex and entertaining, and the book cover is gorgeous. I devoured this book in one day!
Weaponized is the story of Gráinne and Luca, two college students and young adult heirs to different mafia families. Gráinne’s father, an Irish mob boss and sociopath, has ordered her to transfer to St. Agnes University and find a suitable man to seduce and marry. This book is described as a dark academia romance, and most of the characters are college students in their early 20s.
The author introduces Gráinne and Luca to the reader by their violent and morally grey past experiences. Throughout the rest of the novel, in dual POV, the reader sees the many different facets of each character's lives. These characters are fascinating in the juxtaposition of their mafia ties and their commitment to their studies, friends, and families. In many ways, they are normal college students, which is not what you would expect for members of the mafia.
Gráinne and Luca’s love story is as tender and passionate as it is unexpected. Luca was not one of Gráinne’s father’s top choices for her, but when they meet, both are instantly drawn to each other. Their intense chemistry and deep affection for each other were a powerful part of this novel. These characters had a wonderful love story, which further redeemed them in my opinion.
Stories about the mafia are not always interesting to me, but I loved the portrayal of the mafia family members and their daily lives in the Sopranos. Weaponized is a great story about the real lives of the children of mafia families and how they grow up, which is fascinating. This novel exceeded my expectations, particularly for a debut author.
Thank you to Kelly Kilburn, Carina Press, and NetGalley for an advance reader’s copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Weaponized is the story of Gráinne and Luca, two college students and young adult heirs to different mafia families. Gráinne’s father, an Irish mob boss and sociopath, has ordered her to transfer to St. Agnes University and find a suitable man to seduce and marry. This book is described as a dark academia romance, and most of the characters are college students in their early 20s.
The author introduces Gráinne and Luca to the reader by their violent and morally grey past experiences. Throughout the rest of the novel, in dual POV, the reader sees the many different facets of each character's lives. These characters are fascinating in the juxtaposition of their mafia ties and their commitment to their studies, friends, and families. In many ways, they are normal college students, which is not what you would expect for members of the mafia.
Gráinne and Luca’s love story is as tender and passionate as it is unexpected. Luca was not one of Gráinne’s father’s top choices for her, but when they meet, both are instantly drawn to each other. Their intense chemistry and deep affection for each other were a powerful part of this novel. These characters had a wonderful love story, which further redeemed them in my opinion.
Stories about the mafia are not always interesting to me, but I loved the portrayal of the mafia family members and their daily lives in the Sopranos. Weaponized is a great story about the real lives of the children of mafia families and how they grow up, which is fascinating. This novel exceeded my expectations, particularly for a debut author.
Thank you to Kelly Kilburn, Carina Press, and NetGalley for an advance reader’s copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 6, 2025
Weaponized is a unique new adult romance. While it has some aspects in common with other stories - the academic setting and mafia family dynamics - the combination in this story is different than others. The FMC, Grainne, is the daughter of an Irish crime lord, but she's not just a pawn in the family's game. While she's been trained to serve her father's political needs - as a "femme fatale" type character, able to seduce men easily but still tough enough to bring them down - she no longer wants to be part of her father's game.
Grainne is unique in that in addition to not being helpless and beautiful, she's also very strong, well-trained, and whip-smart. She doesn't want to just find a husband and further her standing in the mafia world - she wants to continue with her academic goals and have a real career. I found myself rooting for her at every turn, even when she got into some tricky spots.
This love story is also very well done. Grainne and the MMC, Luca, truly have something special - in this story, the drama comes from outside, and it's how they weather the storms that creates the interest. Luca is not the typical mafia son - yes, he does bad things and he's in the world, but there is something darker there that makes it hard for him to be open. Grainne's love for him changes him in a way that is really heart-warming.
There's tons of spice here, but some slow burn and intervening drama too. The spice is well-written and not too dark - perfect for the new adult genre. Highly recommend!
Thanks to the ARC team for an advance copy of this book!
Grainne is unique in that in addition to not being helpless and beautiful, she's also very strong, well-trained, and whip-smart. She doesn't want to just find a husband and further her standing in the mafia world - she wants to continue with her academic goals and have a real career. I found myself rooting for her at every turn, even when she got into some tricky spots.
This love story is also very well done. Grainne and the MMC, Luca, truly have something special - in this story, the drama comes from outside, and it's how they weather the storms that creates the interest. Luca is not the typical mafia son - yes, he does bad things and he's in the world, but there is something darker there that makes it hard for him to be open. Grainne's love for him changes him in a way that is really heart-warming.
There's tons of spice here, but some slow burn and intervening drama too. The spice is well-written and not too dark - perfect for the new adult genre. Highly recommend!
Thanks to the ARC team for an advance copy of this book!
June 19, 2025
Very much a touch her and die vibe mixed with INSTA LUST. Heavy on the insta lust. Forbidden romance too.
I’ve recently started getting into mob/mafia romance and this was a short and relatively sweet book that allowed me to get more into the trope.
I really enjoyed Gráinne as a character and found her well matched to Luca. The first bit of the book was a bit of a drag with some cringey sentences like “"At the ripe age of twenty, I now glide rather than walk. My smile is dazzling. My lips are just pink and puffy enough.
My golden hair is long, thick, and shiny."
but I started cheering for them when I was about 40% in. And the sentences got SO much better. We’re talking about”Every scar, every doubt, every ounce of fear and heartache had been worth it to make her mine. She may be an angel who knows the darkness, but she will always be my light. And, I may be a monster, but I will be the only weapon she will need for the rest of our lives.” Cliche but I loved it!
As a debut novel I think it’s well written with room for improvement as the series progresses. The author has established an interesting universe and set up the book so that there’s a chance for other characters to get books in the future.
If you love a cliche mafia/mob romance this is the perfect book for you! Plus it gives off real college campus vibes
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin - Romance, and the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve recently started getting into mob/mafia romance and this was a short and relatively sweet book that allowed me to get more into the trope.
I really enjoyed Gráinne as a character and found her well matched to Luca. The first bit of the book was a bit of a drag with some cringey sentences like “"At the ripe age of twenty, I now glide rather than walk. My smile is dazzling. My lips are just pink and puffy enough.
My golden hair is long, thick, and shiny."
but I started cheering for them when I was about 40% in. And the sentences got SO much better. We’re talking about”Every scar, every doubt, every ounce of fear and heartache had been worth it to make her mine. She may be an angel who knows the darkness, but she will always be my light. And, I may be a monster, but I will be the only weapon she will need for the rest of our lives.” Cliche but I loved it!
As a debut novel I think it’s well written with room for improvement as the series progresses. The author has established an interesting universe and set up the book so that there’s a chance for other characters to get books in the future.
If you love a cliche mafia/mob romance this is the perfect book for you! Plus it gives off real college campus vibes
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin - Romance, and the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2025
🔥 WEAPONIZED by Kelly Kilburn
Heirs of the Organized #1
📅 On Sale: July 8, 2025
💀 Love is a dangerous game… and she’s the perfect weapon.
This spicy, pulse-pounding mafia romance absolutely delivered. Set in a world where loyalty is currency and secrets are fatal, Weaponized throws you straight into the fire with Gráinne, an Irish mafia princess, and Luca, the Bratva enforcer she should never fall for. But love doesn’t play by the rules—and neither do they.
🌶️ Enemies to lovers
🖤 Forbidden romance
💣 Mafia families at war
🔥 Dirty talk + poetic softness
🗡️ She’s meant to seduce… but he’s the one who disarms her.
I DEVOURED this book. The tension? Crackling. The spice? Perfection. The vulnerability in Luca's character? UGH. My entire soul. And don’t even get me started on the twists—this one is packed with betrayal, longing, and the kind of morally gray romance that keeps you hooked.
If you loved Savage Lands, Vicious, or Ruthless People, you NEED to meet Gráinne and Luca. This is BookTok mafia romance gold—no notes.
🧡 Thank you @HQNshamelessRomantics and @HarlequinBooks for the ARC!
#Weaponized #HQNShamelessRomantics #HarlequinBooks #MafiaRomance #OppositesAttract #EnemiesToLovers #SpicyRomance #NewAdultRomance #RomanticSuspense #DangerousLove #MorallyGrayMen #RomanceBookstagram #DarkRomanceReads #DebutAuthorToWatch #BookishAndDangerous #JulyReleases #BookstagramRecs
Heirs of the Organized #1
📅 On Sale: July 8, 2025
💀 Love is a dangerous game… and she’s the perfect weapon.
This spicy, pulse-pounding mafia romance absolutely delivered. Set in a world where loyalty is currency and secrets are fatal, Weaponized throws you straight into the fire with Gráinne, an Irish mafia princess, and Luca, the Bratva enforcer she should never fall for. But love doesn’t play by the rules—and neither do they.
🌶️ Enemies to lovers
🖤 Forbidden romance
💣 Mafia families at war
🔥 Dirty talk + poetic softness
🗡️ She’s meant to seduce… but he’s the one who disarms her.
I DEVOURED this book. The tension? Crackling. The spice? Perfection. The vulnerability in Luca's character? UGH. My entire soul. And don’t even get me started on the twists—this one is packed with betrayal, longing, and the kind of morally gray romance that keeps you hooked.
If you loved Savage Lands, Vicious, or Ruthless People, you NEED to meet Gráinne and Luca. This is BookTok mafia romance gold—no notes.
🧡 Thank you @HQNshamelessRomantics and @HarlequinBooks for the ARC!
#Weaponized #HQNShamelessRomantics #HarlequinBooks #MafiaRomance #OppositesAttract #EnemiesToLovers #SpicyRomance #NewAdultRomance #RomanticSuspense #DangerousLove #MorallyGrayMen #RomanceBookstagram #DarkRomanceReads #DebutAuthorToWatch #BookishAndDangerous #JulyReleases #BookstagramRecs
June 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
Tropes: mafia romance, opposites attract, protector/bodyguard, virgin-ish hero, gentle giant, found family, not-slow-burn-but-still-slow
Weaponized was everything I didn’t know I needed in a mafia romance. Luca is a Bratva enforcer—huge, intimidating, and the definition of a beastly man—but with the heart of a poet and the emotional vulnerability that absolutely gutted me in the best way. He’s not a virgin, but the way he experiences intimacy with Grainne? Let’s just say when he comes in his pants, it’s not cringe—it’s so pure and so good I wanted to hug him.
Grainne is fierce, stubborn, and constantly trying to claw back control from the men in her life—including her psychotic Irish mob boss father. I loved her dynamic with Elizabeth, and the way she pushes back on the chaos around her. But I won’t lie, her tendency to overreact and jump to conclusions (looking at you, Bratva dinner scene) got on my nerves sometimes.
That said, the chemistry? 🔥 The tension between her and Luca is thick and so satisfying. The banter, the longing, the slow-but-not-too-slow progression—it all worked. And Luca’s dirty talk upgrade? I about melted right then and there.
Also: Gianni is trash. Matteo, where were you?
If you like emotionally soft men in morally gray worlds, a little action, a lot of heart, and a hero who feels real, Weaponized is for you
Tropes: mafia romance, opposites attract, protector/bodyguard, virgin-ish hero, gentle giant, found family, not-slow-burn-but-still-slow
Weaponized was everything I didn’t know I needed in a mafia romance. Luca is a Bratva enforcer—huge, intimidating, and the definition of a beastly man—but with the heart of a poet and the emotional vulnerability that absolutely gutted me in the best way. He’s not a virgin, but the way he experiences intimacy with Grainne? Let’s just say when he comes in his pants, it’s not cringe—it’s so pure and so good I wanted to hug him.
Grainne is fierce, stubborn, and constantly trying to claw back control from the men in her life—including her psychotic Irish mob boss father. I loved her dynamic with Elizabeth, and the way she pushes back on the chaos around her. But I won’t lie, her tendency to overreact and jump to conclusions (looking at you, Bratva dinner scene) got on my nerves sometimes.
That said, the chemistry? 🔥 The tension between her and Luca is thick and so satisfying. The banter, the longing, the slow-but-not-too-slow progression—it all worked. And Luca’s dirty talk upgrade? I about melted right then and there.
Also: Gianni is trash. Matteo, where were you?
If you like emotionally soft men in morally gray worlds, a little action, a lot of heart, and a hero who feels real, Weaponized is for you
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2025
This is a new series by Kelly Kilburn, and my first read by this author. What I loved about this book even though it seemed insta-love, she let the relationship grow it wasn't rushed, these two college kids had enough obstacles in their way as you will find out when you start reading. This is a college romance, dual POV touch her and die, and he falls first kind of book. The relationship is intense and the chemistry perfect.
Love is a dangerous game…and she's the perfect weapon. A femme fatale mafia princess meets her dark, brooding match in this searing opposites-attract new adult romance
Gainee is an heir to her mafia family and her father is Irish Mob Boss, and he's a sociopath and has decided that his daughter is changing colleges, he transfers her to ST. Agnes University to find a suitable man to seduce and marry. She is to choose between 4 men, so far none of them appeal to her until her eyes meet Luca, their eyes lock onto each other. Her father isn't happy he was his least favorite pick, but a heart wants what a heart wants, even if it wants Luca who is heir to a Mafia family as well, and it isn't what either family really wants.
"When I told you that you were everything, I meant it. You make my life worth living. You make every day brighter just by being in it. While I will never know what I did to deserve you, I will never let you go."
Love is a dangerous game…and she's the perfect weapon. A femme fatale mafia princess meets her dark, brooding match in this searing opposites-attract new adult romance
Gainee is an heir to her mafia family and her father is Irish Mob Boss, and he's a sociopath and has decided that his daughter is changing colleges, he transfers her to ST. Agnes University to find a suitable man to seduce and marry. She is to choose between 4 men, so far none of them appeal to her until her eyes meet Luca, their eyes lock onto each other. Her father isn't happy he was his least favorite pick, but a heart wants what a heart wants, even if it wants Luca who is heir to a Mafia family as well, and it isn't what either family really wants.
"When I told you that you were everything, I meant it. You make my life worth living. You make every day brighter just by being in it. While I will never know what I did to deserve you, I will never let you go."
September 5, 2025
Real Rating: 3.5
I'll start off by saying that this is insta-lust. Both MCs are instantly drawn to each other, and while I did think they were cute with each other, it was very much insta-lust/love. Despite that, I really enjoyed the characters. I liked how instinctual Grainne's management of Luca's temper was, and not even in a toxic way?? Like they both made each other better people and I loved that for them. They had a lot of cute moments, and I was wholly invested in their relationship.
I do wish we got more badassery from Grainne - we get told she's a femme fatale and we do get to see people fall head over heels for her, but I wanted a bit more in terms of seeing her use her skills. I also wanted to see Luca take on more with his father, he's mostly one dimensional due to his temper, but he seemed like he had the mind for heading up the Family, and I wish we got to see more of that play out.
Otherwise, this was such an addictive read. I sped through it - the tension between the MCs and the tension of the mob drama propelled the story and I couldn't look away, I was so invested. Definitely recommend if you want a quick read with some spice and an easily remedied conflict.
TW: kidnapping, torture, blood, violence, mutilation, attempted rape, injury detail; mentions sexual assault
Plot: 3/5
Characters: 4/5
World Building: 2.5/5
Writing: 3.5/5
Pacing: 3/5
Overall: 3.5/5
eARC gifted via NetGalley by Carina Press via Harlequin Romance in exchange for an honest review.
I'll start off by saying that this is insta-lust. Both MCs are instantly drawn to each other, and while I did think they were cute with each other, it was very much insta-lust/love. Despite that, I really enjoyed the characters. I liked how instinctual Grainne's management of Luca's temper was, and not even in a toxic way?? Like they both made each other better people and I loved that for them. They had a lot of cute moments, and I was wholly invested in their relationship.
I do wish we got more badassery from Grainne - we get told she's a femme fatale and we do get to see people fall head over heels for her, but I wanted a bit more in terms of seeing her use her skills. I also wanted to see Luca take on more with his father, he's mostly one dimensional due to his temper, but he seemed like he had the mind for heading up the Family, and I wish we got to see more of that play out.
Otherwise, this was such an addictive read. I sped through it - the tension between the MCs and the tension of the mob drama propelled the story and I couldn't look away, I was so invested. Definitely recommend if you want a quick read with some spice and an easily remedied conflict.
TW: kidnapping, torture, blood, violence, mutilation, attempted rape, injury detail; mentions sexual assault
Plot: 3/5
Characters: 4/5
World Building: 2.5/5
Writing: 3.5/5
Pacing: 3/5
Overall: 3.5/5
eARC gifted via NetGalley by Carina Press via Harlequin Romance in exchange for an honest review.
December 18, 2025
I really am such a sucker for a mafia romance, and Weaponized absolutely scratched that itch for me. Gráinne is the kind of FMC I love! She’s sharp, trained, strategic, and fully aware of how dangerous the world around her is. She’s been shaped into a weapon her whole life, and watching her navigate that while still wanting more for herself was so impactful. And Luca… listen. Broody, tattooed, morally gray enforcer who’s built like a menace but is emotionally soft and lowkey clueless when it comes to feelings? Immediate yes. Their connection is fast, intense, and full of tension, but it still gives you time to feel the shift from lust to something deeper, which made it so satisfying.
I flew through this book and could’ve easily read it in one sitting. The chemistry between Gráinne and Luca is insane, and I loved how emotionally raw Luca is beneath all that muscle and rage — he really falls first, and it works. The found family vibes are always my favorite, but the next generation trying to break toxic cycles added layers I wasn’t expecting. I did find myself wanting a bit more depth in some of the mafia politics, but it honestly just made me more excited for future books in the series. Dark romance with tension, heart, spice, and a down bad enforcer who would burn the world for his girl? I’m in.
I flew through this book and could’ve easily read it in one sitting. The chemistry between Gráinne and Luca is insane, and I loved how emotionally raw Luca is beneath all that muscle and rage — he really falls first, and it works. The found family vibes are always my favorite, but the next generation trying to break toxic cycles added layers I wasn’t expecting. I did find myself wanting a bit more depth in some of the mafia politics, but it honestly just made me more excited for future books in the series. Dark romance with tension, heart, spice, and a down bad enforcer who would burn the world for his girl? I’m in.
July 4, 2025
Luca and Gráinne 🥰
I’m always looking for new authors to read and was very lucky to find her new book Weaponized!!!!
This is the story of Gráinne O’Toole, trained to be a seductress to get informations on other organizations families. Her father, Cormac is a crazy calculate man who will use anyone, even his own children, to get what he wants. She have to seduce one of the four en on his list and marry him. He wants Matteo Larozzi but she is falling for his brother twin brother Luca. He she felt hard. Luca is the silent one. The one word man. Have a bad reputation of having a short fuse. But he is not that at all. Will she betrayed her father mission to be with Luca or will she follow his orders?
Finally a FMC who’s willing to fight for the love for her man. Luca is awestruck by her and love her for her strength and determination. Having bad relationships, Luca is learning to trust, to love again. She’s straight forward in the relationship and Luca is just following her. She will be the one teaching him everything, if you know what I mean 😉 This is a true love story of two damaged souls being healed up together with love.
I highly recommend this book!!! I read it in one sitting!! 5 ⭐️
I’m always looking for new authors to read and was very lucky to find her new book Weaponized!!!!
This is the story of Gráinne O’Toole, trained to be a seductress to get informations on other organizations families. Her father, Cormac is a crazy calculate man who will use anyone, even his own children, to get what he wants. She have to seduce one of the four en on his list and marry him. He wants Matteo Larozzi but she is falling for his brother twin brother Luca. He she felt hard. Luca is the silent one. The one word man. Have a bad reputation of having a short fuse. But he is not that at all. Will she betrayed her father mission to be with Luca or will she follow his orders?
Finally a FMC who’s willing to fight for the love for her man. Luca is awestruck by her and love her for her strength and determination. Having bad relationships, Luca is learning to trust, to love again. She’s straight forward in the relationship and Luca is just following her. She will be the one teaching him everything, if you know what I mean 😉 This is a true love story of two damaged souls being healed up together with love.
I highly recommend this book!!! I read it in one sitting!! 5 ⭐️
May 31, 2025
Thank you Harlequin - Romance and Netgalley for the eARC copy of this book!
3.75 ⭐️ rounded up!
Okay listen up mafia girlies: Kelly has knocked it OUT OF THE PARK with this debut! This had the fun twist of our fmc, Gráinne, being a femme fetal raised to be beautiful, unassuming, and deadly.
On the flip side, our mmc was a fairly inexperienced mafia don’s son with a lot of trauma. The entire book I just wanted to give Luca a hug :(
This was such a fun little mafia adventure and this mismatched couple stole my heart. I really liked the “college for mafia kids, politicians kids, etc.” Although this book only really talks about the school aspect primarily in the beginning, I hope one of the future books have more of the college kid aspect to it.
I do wish there was more to the ending, but I wonder if parts of this will overlap into the next book? It seemed to tie up all loose ends in quick succession and then end quickly, which isn’t a big deal but I wanted more! Either way, I am really excited to read about the next couple + the other couple teased in this book as the series continues!
✨Please be sure to check TWs before reading✨
3.75 ⭐️ rounded up!
Okay listen up mafia girlies: Kelly has knocked it OUT OF THE PARK with this debut! This had the fun twist of our fmc, Gráinne, being a femme fetal raised to be beautiful, unassuming, and deadly.
On the flip side, our mmc was a fairly inexperienced mafia don’s son with a lot of trauma. The entire book I just wanted to give Luca a hug :(
This was such a fun little mafia adventure and this mismatched couple stole my heart. I really liked the “college for mafia kids, politicians kids, etc.” Although this book only really talks about the school aspect primarily in the beginning, I hope one of the future books have more of the college kid aspect to it.
I do wish there was more to the ending, but I wonder if parts of this will overlap into the next book? It seemed to tie up all loose ends in quick succession and then end quickly, which isn’t a big deal but I wanted more! Either way, I am really excited to read about the next couple + the other couple teased in this book as the series continues!
✨Please be sure to check TWs before reading✨
May 13, 2025
Weaponized by Kelly Kilburn is an enemies-to-lovers mafia romance that was surprising and griping. Grainne has been groomed to be a weapon by her father, utilizing her beauty, knowledge, and strength to seduce men for the good of the family. Luca is viewed as his brothers enforcer, son of a powerful mobster Don, and overall monster. Grainne is assigned to choose a husband, one of four potential sons from powerful families, while attending college at St. Agnes. What she does not expect, is to actually fall in love. I was blown away by this book and could barely put it down! There is certainly some dark content, so check the warnings at the beginning of the book. I was really impressed by the development of the characters, how their back stories were introduced, the progression of the relationships, and overall flow of the book. I cannot wait to see what comes next in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin - Romance, and the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin - Romance, and the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2025
“When I told you that you were everything, I meant it. You make my life worth living. You make every day brighter just by being in it. While I will never know what I did to deserve you, I will never let you go.” 💜
I haven’t read a mafia romance book in a very long time but after reading Weaponized I’ve realized how much it’s a genre I actually enjoy! This book was super well done and I felt that it was a perfect blend of plot and spice! The book is relatively fast-paced and it kept me hooked all the way through!
The tension between Gráinne and Luca before they got together was intense and their chemistry was insane. They’re definitely up there in terms of hottest couples I’ve ever read. Even though their relationship started out practically as insta-lust, I truly loved their relationship progression!
If you love mafia romance; a college setting; dual pov; touch her and ☠️; he falls first; an overprotective morally grey MMC; and opposites attract, then definitely check out this debut book! Weaponized releases on July 8!
Thank you so much to Harlequin for an advanced copy!
Also, how gorgeous is that book cover! 😍
I haven’t read a mafia romance book in a very long time but after reading Weaponized I’ve realized how much it’s a genre I actually enjoy! This book was super well done and I felt that it was a perfect blend of plot and spice! The book is relatively fast-paced and it kept me hooked all the way through!
The tension between Gráinne and Luca before they got together was intense and their chemistry was insane. They’re definitely up there in terms of hottest couples I’ve ever read. Even though their relationship started out practically as insta-lust, I truly loved their relationship progression!
If you love mafia romance; a college setting; dual pov; touch her and ☠️; he falls first; an overprotective morally grey MMC; and opposites attract, then definitely check out this debut book! Weaponized releases on July 8!
Thank you so much to Harlequin for an advanced copy!
Also, how gorgeous is that book cover! 😍
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