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Single Chances #1
Down the Aisle
Adam is ready to spoil you rotten and do whatever it takes to keep you safe. Are you ready for him?
As a mafia boss, Adam Santini has spent years building his empire under a façade of normalcy. The last person he expects to capture his heart is sweet, single mother Eliza. His obsession is instant, and he's determined to be a light in her dark world, even as he hides his own demons.
Eliza Huyen is barely holding her life together in the windswept town of Seaside, Oregon. The last thing she needs is complications while watching her back, but that's exactly what she gets when her son tugs on the sleeve of a charming man who seems too good to be true.
As Eliza lets him into her life, she feels something she hasn't felt in a long time—hope. But when her past comes for her with fury, everything falls apart. Even Adam's dark secret comes into the light to protect the woman he's come to love.
Adam refuses to let her go, so can Eliza embrace his darkness and find safety in his arms, or will her fears tear them apart with everything else?
THIS IS A COZY DARK ROMANCE THAT WILL HAVE SENSITIVE THEMES AND TOPICS. PLEASE READ THE TW/CW PAGE IN THE FRONT OF THE BOOK BEFORE CONTINUING FOR YOUR OWN MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING!!!
As a mafia boss, Adam Santini has spent years building his empire under a façade of normalcy. The last person he expects to capture his heart is sweet, single mother Eliza. His obsession is instant, and he's determined to be a light in her dark world, even as he hides his own demons.
Eliza Huyen is barely holding her life together in the windswept town of Seaside, Oregon. The last thing she needs is complications while watching her back, but that's exactly what she gets when her son tugs on the sleeve of a charming man who seems too good to be true.
As Eliza lets him into her life, she feels something she hasn't felt in a long time—hope. But when her past comes for her with fury, everything falls apart. Even Adam's dark secret comes into the light to protect the woman he's come to love.
Adam refuses to let her go, so can Eliza embrace his darkness and find safety in his arms, or will her fears tear them apart with everything else?
THIS IS A COZY DARK ROMANCE THAT WILL HAVE SENSITIVE THEMES AND TOPICS. PLEASE READ THE TW/CW PAGE IN THE FRONT OF THE BOOK BEFORE CONTINUING FOR YOUR OWN MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING!!!
- GenresDark RomanceContemporary
436 pages, Paperback
Published February 11, 2025
12 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Rose Chase
8 books128 followersRose Chase, a dedicated nurse and loving mother to two boys, discovered her passion for storytelling in middle school on online forums and Wattpad. Despite her busy life, she delves into the captivating realm of contemporary romance, with a particular fascination for dark romance and morally gray characters. Through her skillful storytelling, Rose navigates the intricate dance between love, desire, and the shadows of human nature. When not saving lives or caring for her family, she immerses herself in the world of fiction, inviting readers to explore the depths of love and passion while confronting the complexities of the human heart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
February 15, 2025
A cozy romcom with few light mafia elements here & there. Truly a 'don't judge a book by its cover' ahhh book. Why? Because it contains many intense spicy scenes (I'm not complaining though🤤).
Adam Santini is less a mafia boss with some morally grey moments but more a soft and obsessed pookie😂❤️.
Eliza is hiding herself and her son, Asher from her abusive husband. She meets Adam at a grocery store, insta love happens and Adam becomes obsessed with her from the first sight. Both are hiding secrets from each other. My only issue with this book- I wanted more mafia stuff 😭.
This book really gave me a sweet tooth lol like he was always praising her (my praise kink is fully satisfied rn🤭🤭). There's a lot of degradation too iykyk. Definitely recommend.
"𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐠𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐞'𝐝 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐚 𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭'𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬."
"𝑨 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒆𝒏. 𝑴𝒚 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒆𝒏." 🥵🦋✨
Adam Santini is less a mafia boss with some morally grey moments but more a soft and obsessed pookie😂❤️.
Eliza is hiding herself and her son, Asher from her abusive husband. She meets Adam at a grocery store, insta love happens and Adam becomes obsessed with her from the first sight. Both are hiding secrets from each other. My only issue with this book- I wanted more mafia stuff 😭.
This book really gave me a sweet tooth lol like he was always praising her (my praise kink is fully satisfied rn🤭🤭). There's a lot of degradation too iykyk. Definitely recommend.
"𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐠𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐞'𝐝 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐚 𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭'𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬."
"𝑨 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒆𝒏. 𝑴𝒚 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒆𝒏." 🥵🦋✨
February 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️.5
Thank you so much to the Author and Bubbly PR for the ARC of Down the Aisle, I truly appreciate the privelage to read a book before release.
I really wanted to love this book, the tropes were right up my ally! I sadly just could not get into the story, right from the start I wanted to DNF but pushed through as I felt it deserved it. I really loved the concept but it sadly missed the mark for me. This is a bit of a chunky book, personally I feel if half of it was cut out and fleshing of characters was added in and more focus on the plot this could take the book to a solid 4 stars.
Things I liked:
✨️ the story idea
✨️the ending
✨️ Adam's relationship with Asher
Things I disliked
💥 The pacing
💥 The insta love (it just hit too hard and not in a good way)
💥 The way Adam lied to her
💥 The way Eliza forgave Adam so fast and it basically felt like a bilp in the story
💥 I felt like Eliza had no personality to me, I just could not connect with her no matter how much I read.
💥Breaking into her house??? TWICE?! Once to place cameras and another to stage a break in so she would move in with you???
💥 Adam was like the thrift store version of Josh from Lights Out.
💥 The Mafia felt like the sub plot of sub plots it wasn't a very big focus.
💥 Eliza calling Adam bub... it gave me the biggest ick and I'm not sure why 😬
Thank you so much to the Author and Bubbly PR for the ARC of Down the Aisle, I truly appreciate the privelage to read a book before release.
I really wanted to love this book, the tropes were right up my ally! I sadly just could not get into the story, right from the start I wanted to DNF but pushed through as I felt it deserved it. I really loved the concept but it sadly missed the mark for me. This is a bit of a chunky book, personally I feel if half of it was cut out and fleshing of characters was added in and more focus on the plot this could take the book to a solid 4 stars.
Things I liked:
✨️ the story idea
✨️the ending
✨️ Adam's relationship with Asher
Things I disliked
💥 The pacing
💥 The insta love (it just hit too hard and not in a good way)
💥 The way Adam lied to her
💥 The way Eliza forgave Adam so fast and it basically felt like a bilp in the story
💥 I felt like Eliza had no personality to me, I just could not connect with her no matter how much I read.
💥Breaking into her house??? TWICE?! Once to place cameras and another to stage a break in so she would move in with you???
💥 Adam was like the thrift store version of Josh from Lights Out.
💥 The Mafia felt like the sub plot of sub plots it wasn't a very big focus.
💥 Eliza calling Adam bub... it gave me the biggest ick and I'm not sure why 😬
February 16, 2025
I received this book for free to review but that in no way shapes my opinion!
Down the Aisle has some light mafia elements amongst a cute rom com feel. It’s not completely like life time with the FMC being a single mom and previous dv past. I think down deep we all want someone like Adam who’s so protective. It’s hard to not want him for yourself.. Overall, one of my favorites from Rose Chase!
Down the Aisle has some light mafia elements amongst a cute rom com feel. It’s not completely like life time with the FMC being a single mom and previous dv past. I think down deep we all want someone like Adam who’s so protective. It’s hard to not want him for yourself.. Overall, one of my favorites from Rose Chase!
dnf
September 4, 2025DNF @ 7%
February 17, 2025
Everything Rose writes is gold.
I love every single thing
I love every single thing
February 21, 2025
A Cozy Dark Romance, So Sweet It Will Rot Your Teeth.
Definitely don't judge a book by its cover! ESPECIALLY NOT THIS ONE.
This might seem like a cute, innocent book, but it has some mildly dark themes. Honestly, this book is perfect for someone who wants to dip their toes in dark romance, or if your cerious about BDSM this would be the perfect book to try! If you are curious about dark romance and dont know where to start, this is perfect. The main character is a super sweet caring man. He is almost to sweet.. what makes this book dark is his job which makes him morally grey, and the couple explores BDSM. The female is a dv survivor. Please check your trigger warnings before reading. I will leave those below.
This is a beautiful awareness for DV survivors. And for current victims, I hope you find this book and use it to keep fighting. Not everyone is able to escape safely, but I hope you find a way out eventually and that you are safe. I hope this inspires hope for someone out there.
This book has a happy ending.
I love how they break down of the BDSM and it's rules. And Adam is the perfect teacher! He not only is he a DOM but he also knows the rules and how to take things slow. This not a fast-paced book so if you don't like a slow burn than this is not the book for you.
Tigger Warnings:
Explicit language
Explicit violence
Sexual violence
Abuse
Drugs and Alcohol
Open door scenes
Dub-con
Consensual-non-concent
BDSM elements and tones
Mentions of assault
Edge play
And the big one.......
DOMESTIC ABUSE is talked about throughout the entire book.
If any of this is going to harm your mental health please don't read this!
If nothing triggers you then be prepared for:
THINGS AREN'T ALWAYS AS THEY SEEM!
EVERYONE HERE HAS A SECRET!
(Oh, and the coolest part is that Eliza moves to Seaside Oregon. I was living there up until very recently. That was one of the reasons why I had to read it. Plus, I love most of Rose's books...)
The main male character is a Mafia boss who owns several establishments.. This man is the sweetest, cheesiest guy I've ever read. He has a this too good to be true vibe. He takes care of Eliza in a way a man should. He reads her body language and realizes she has experienced a trauma in her past. He does move at her own pace because of this. Now he did a background check, on Eliza and Asher's and found 0 records of dv in her past. Its actually pretty boring and find nothing other than birthdays and yearly check-up visits small. He is very suspicious and thinks she's hiding something, but he definitely doesn't know what. Not only does he fall for Eliza, but he falls for her son too (in a dad way, not a creepy way)! (Which I love, by the way, I love that he loves Asher. I don't know how many men out there wouldn't even think about dating someone with a kid. I found this element so refreshing). I think it was so cute that Asher was the one to connect with Adam first.
Now remember how I said he moves at her own pace, well yes and no. The grey area is that he forces himself into her life. He has been planning on ways to make them permanent in his life. He isn't being completely honest about it either. Not only that, but he isn't being completely honest about his line of work. He doesn't make any moves on Eliza unless she allows, and she gives consent. He is willing to break BDSM down and find out what her limits are.. she is the one who brings up the BDSM first. He has been into BDSM for a long time, and he knows that the DOM is not in charge it's actually the SUB who is in charge. Besides that, he is probably the sweetest guy ever you will ever meet. His toxic trait is he is a bit cocky and he always gets what he wants. That is the definition of toxic lol. But we love him anyway.
Eliza has her own secrets, but for good reason. Her ex is abusive. She was with him for 10 years. She was given a new identity. Her son is what made her decide to leave him. She didn't want him to grow up thinking that it was ok. They both get a clean slate. She works two jobs, and not only that, she takes her son to both jobs. She is scared about her ex finding them so she does everything in her power, not to let that happen. I related to Eliza somewhat. Eliza's toxic trait is she is living life in fear. Adam makes her feel free again. Every time she cringed I cringed with her. I could feel her pain through the paper.
Ok, I loved this book. Don't get me wrong, I think this is great for beginner dark romance girlys. It was cute. Adam is perfect for Eliza. I love that the book mentions how important self care is and that every parent needs them. My partner and I dont have the option for someone to watch our three kids, but we make sure we do at least one thing together and something separately. I didn't realize until recently how important that is, so thank you, Rose, for putting that into your story. I also loved that not only did she have a hard past but she was also a mom as well. There are so many women who are going to be able to relate. Not just a mom but a struggling single mom! You don't see a struggling single mom very often.
I know this is fake and not real at all.
However, there were some things that bothered me.
For someone who is trying to lay low. She let's him in a little too fast. Yes, he does force himself on to her life (literally). I feel like this was too easy all of it. Maybe that's why I say it's perfect for beginners. I don't know, but it just didn't sit well with me.
Adam is a little too sweet for my taste personally, and maybe that's why I think this was all a little too easy. But maybe I'm not into that much praise? Maybe that's it im not sure honestly I finished because I wanted to see how this ended.. This is a me problem not the author. this is all my personal preference, which is why I'm not giving this any less than 4 stars. Plus, I love most of Rose's writing style. Thank you. I think this is perfect for people who have been in that type of situation. You don't get to see very many single moms with a trauma have a happy ending! This deserves recognition.
Cute read! I'm glad I read it! I would definitely recommend it to someone who is curious about dark romance...
Quotes:
There’s my little rose with her thorns ( this is going to be a sticker and I'm going to it some place special. My favorite line!)
Definitely don't judge a book by its cover! ESPECIALLY NOT THIS ONE.
This might seem like a cute, innocent book, but it has some mildly dark themes. Honestly, this book is perfect for someone who wants to dip their toes in dark romance, or if your cerious about BDSM this would be the perfect book to try! If you are curious about dark romance and dont know where to start, this is perfect. The main character is a super sweet caring man. He is almost to sweet.. what makes this book dark is his job which makes him morally grey, and the couple explores BDSM. The female is a dv survivor. Please check your trigger warnings before reading. I will leave those below.
This is a beautiful awareness for DV survivors. And for current victims, I hope you find this book and use it to keep fighting. Not everyone is able to escape safely, but I hope you find a way out eventually and that you are safe. I hope this inspires hope for someone out there.
This book has a happy ending.
I love how they break down of the BDSM and it's rules. And Adam is the perfect teacher! He not only is he a DOM but he also knows the rules and how to take things slow. This not a fast-paced book so if you don't like a slow burn than this is not the book for you.
Tigger Warnings:
Explicit language
Explicit violence
Sexual violence
Abuse
Drugs and Alcohol
Open door scenes
Dub-con
Consensual-non-concent
BDSM elements and tones
Mentions of assault
Edge play
And the big one.......
DOMESTIC ABUSE is talked about throughout the entire book.
If any of this is going to harm your mental health please don't read this!
If nothing triggers you then be prepared for:
THINGS AREN'T ALWAYS AS THEY SEEM!
EVERYONE HERE HAS A SECRET!
(Oh, and the coolest part is that Eliza moves to Seaside Oregon. I was living there up until very recently. That was one of the reasons why I had to read it. Plus, I love most of Rose's books...)
The main male character is a Mafia boss who owns several establishments.. This man is the sweetest, cheesiest guy I've ever read. He has a this too good to be true vibe. He takes care of Eliza in a way a man should. He reads her body language and realizes she has experienced a trauma in her past. He does move at her own pace because of this. Now he did a background check, on Eliza and Asher's and found 0 records of dv in her past. Its actually pretty boring and find nothing other than birthdays and yearly check-up visits small. He is very suspicious and thinks she's hiding something, but he definitely doesn't know what. Not only does he fall for Eliza, but he falls for her son too (in a dad way, not a creepy way)! (Which I love, by the way, I love that he loves Asher. I don't know how many men out there wouldn't even think about dating someone with a kid. I found this element so refreshing). I think it was so cute that Asher was the one to connect with Adam first.
Now remember how I said he moves at her own pace, well yes and no. The grey area is that he forces himself into her life. He has been planning on ways to make them permanent in his life. He isn't being completely honest about it either. Not only that, but he isn't being completely honest about his line of work. He doesn't make any moves on Eliza unless she allows, and she gives consent. He is willing to break BDSM down and find out what her limits are.. she is the one who brings up the BDSM first. He has been into BDSM for a long time, and he knows that the DOM is not in charge it's actually the SUB who is in charge. Besides that, he is probably the sweetest guy ever you will ever meet. His toxic trait is he is a bit cocky and he always gets what he wants. That is the definition of toxic lol. But we love him anyway.
Eliza has her own secrets, but for good reason. Her ex is abusive. She was with him for 10 years. She was given a new identity. Her son is what made her decide to leave him. She didn't want him to grow up thinking that it was ok. They both get a clean slate. She works two jobs, and not only that, she takes her son to both jobs. She is scared about her ex finding them so she does everything in her power, not to let that happen. I related to Eliza somewhat. Eliza's toxic trait is she is living life in fear. Adam makes her feel free again. Every time she cringed I cringed with her. I could feel her pain through the paper.
Ok, I loved this book. Don't get me wrong, I think this is great for beginner dark romance girlys. It was cute. Adam is perfect for Eliza. I love that the book mentions how important self care is and that every parent needs them. My partner and I dont have the option for someone to watch our three kids, but we make sure we do at least one thing together and something separately. I didn't realize until recently how important that is, so thank you, Rose, for putting that into your story. I also loved that not only did she have a hard past but she was also a mom as well. There are so many women who are going to be able to relate. Not just a mom but a struggling single mom! You don't see a struggling single mom very often.
I know this is fake and not real at all.
However, there were some things that bothered me.
For someone who is trying to lay low. She let's him in a little too fast. Yes, he does force himself on to her life (literally). I feel like this was too easy all of it. Maybe that's why I say it's perfect for beginners. I don't know, but it just didn't sit well with me.
Adam is a little too sweet for my taste personally, and maybe that's why I think this was all a little too easy. But maybe I'm not into that much praise? Maybe that's it im not sure honestly I finished because I wanted to see how this ended.. This is a me problem not the author. this is all my personal preference, which is why I'm not giving this any less than 4 stars. Plus, I love most of Rose's writing style. Thank you. I think this is perfect for people who have been in that type of situation. You don't get to see very many single moms with a trauma have a happy ending! This deserves recognition.
Cute read! I'm glad I read it! I would definitely recommend it to someone who is curious about dark romance...
Quotes:
There’s my little rose with her thorns ( this is going to be a sticker and I'm going to it some place special. My favorite line!)
May 31, 2025
This was a fun and easy read. This is described as a cozy dark romance, and I can agree with that. It is def on the lighter spectrum of dark romance because while there are dark themes it didn't feel like a dark and heavy book. I will say I read some pretty dark stuff at times so please keep that in mind because what could be the lighter end of dark for me might be dark for others. I will also say that sometimes I forgot this was a dark romance but then Adam would do something and I would be like oh yea and it was usually those moments that were my favorite because Adam would been this super sweet guy who was just so obsessed with Eliza who just wants to take care of her and be there for her and her son but to do that he sometimes did some crazy and unhinged things which again I loved. Trying not to give clues away. Now he is supposed to be the head of a Mafia, and the trope does say secret mafia, but I sometimes forgot there was he was in the Mafia so if you're looking for a mafia book this might not be the book for you.
Now with Eliza, I really liked her. She was a survivor who is doing everything she can to take care of herself and her child and I loved that about her. I will say she did her best to stay firm and say no to Adam and in some ways, she did win but in others Adam did have a way of convincing her to let him help out where he could regardless of if she said no. So, her strength is a little softer but at the end you do see she has some bite to her as well.
I will say for me the plot in the middle did dip for me a little and felt a little long and maybe could have been cut down just a smidge but overall, I enjoyed the plot and characters. It is definitely an easy page turner and might be a good starter for those wanting to dip their toes into dark romance.
This book is about Eliza who after drugging her abusive husband ran away under a hidden identity to get her and her baby to safety. Thankfully with her best friends help she is able to land on her feet. She is surviving but it's a struggle and as a single mom she can't afford any distractions especially when she fears that somehow her husband will find her and who knows what would happen then. So, when her son in the middle of a grocery store tugs on a handsome man's sleeve, she knows that she needs to resist him no matter how charming he is. But as he charming as she finds him, he seems just as taken by her and her son that he persists in being there wanting to get to know them and take care of them that she starts to let him into their lives. But as the she starts to feel hope again; she starts to wonder if this is too good to be true and if when the other shoe is going to drop and take a turn for the worse. Unfortunately, she is correct because her hidden past comes for her with a vengeance that everything starts to fall apart. But the thing is she wasn't the only one in the relationship with a dark secret and Adam is not going to let anyone take his light from him no matter how bloody it gets.
I received an ARC Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Now with Eliza, I really liked her. She was a survivor who is doing everything she can to take care of herself and her child and I loved that about her. I will say she did her best to stay firm and say no to Adam and in some ways, she did win but in others Adam did have a way of convincing her to let him help out where he could regardless of if she said no. So, her strength is a little softer but at the end you do see she has some bite to her as well.
I will say for me the plot in the middle did dip for me a little and felt a little long and maybe could have been cut down just a smidge but overall, I enjoyed the plot and characters. It is definitely an easy page turner and might be a good starter for those wanting to dip their toes into dark romance.
This book is about Eliza who after drugging her abusive husband ran away under a hidden identity to get her and her baby to safety. Thankfully with her best friends help she is able to land on her feet. She is surviving but it's a struggle and as a single mom she can't afford any distractions especially when she fears that somehow her husband will find her and who knows what would happen then. So, when her son in the middle of a grocery store tugs on a handsome man's sleeve, she knows that she needs to resist him no matter how charming he is. But as he charming as she finds him, he seems just as taken by her and her son that he persists in being there wanting to get to know them and take care of them that she starts to let him into their lives. But as the she starts to feel hope again; she starts to wonder if this is too good to be true and if when the other shoe is going to drop and take a turn for the worse. Unfortunately, she is correct because her hidden past comes for her with a vengeance that everything starts to fall apart. But the thing is she wasn't the only one in the relationship with a dark secret and Adam is not going to let anyone take his light from him no matter how bloody it gets.
I received an ARC Copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2025
Dedication: To all the victims and survivors: You matter. Don’t give up. You are important to someone out there, your true family, your child(ren), and, most importantly, yourself. You are a rose waiting to bloom, so don't stop until the world sees your beauty and worth.
&
To the single mothers out there (and every book girlie) who wants a morally grey man to sweep them off their feet and spoil them, Adam's gonna take care of you real good. So, spread your legs and be good ;)
Eliza (FMC): 28 • Single Mom • Barely Holding it Together • Hyper-independent • Sunshine in the Darkness •
Adam (MMC): 36 • Organized Crime Boss • Golden German Shepherd Energy • Takes Protection Duty Very Seriously •
Tropes:
🌹 Secret Mâfia Boss x Single Mom
🖤 Small PNW Town
🌹 Touch Her & 💀
🖤 Nicknames
🌹 He Cooks For Her
🖤 Man Obessed
🌹 Healing
🖤 Morally Grey
🌹 Cozy Dark Romcom
🖤 Found Family
🌹 Grumpy x Sunshine
🖤 Second Chance at Love
🌹 Adorable Child Sidekick
🖤 Mental Health Rep
Rating: 💀💀💀 (3⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (dirty talk, praise, toys as teammates, D/s, 👅, 💦, self pleasure, edging, BD$M, somnophilia, 🍑 play, c0ckw@rm1ng, impact play, br33ding, O denial, 💥 on command)
T/W: DV (referenced), escaping DV (on page), panic attack (on page), SA (referenced), manipulation (on page), scars (on page), violence (on page), infidelity (not MCs, referenced), narcotics use (not MCs, referenced)
“An angel was the last thing I'd be in life, but for her, I'd put on my broken halo and bloodied, tattered wings.”
This was a totally different take on a mâfia book.
Down the Aisle is a darkish romance that weaves together themes of obsession, redemption, and second chances. Adam is a morally grey mâfia billionaire, enigmatic and ruthless to the world, yet impossibly tender toward the one woman who challenges his control—Eliza, a single mother fleeing an abusive past.
From the moment they cross paths, his fixation on her is undeniable. He is brooding, powerful, and unyielding in his protection of her, a stark contrast to his otherwise ruthless nature. She, on the other hand, is trying to rebuild her life, navigating the shadows of her trauma while striving for independence.
One of the book’s strongest elements is the Adam’s unwavering devotion to the Eliza. His obsession, while intense, never feels cruel or possessive in a way that diminishes her strength.
The reason I gave this book 3 stars was due to the extremely slow momentum of the plot, making the story feel longer than necessary. The pacing suffers from excessive internal dialogue, making certain sections feel overly drawn out.
Overall, Down the Aisle delivers on the allure of a dark romance with a powerful yet broken hero and a resilient heroine seeking a fresh start. If you enjoy mâfia romance with emotionally complex characters, this book is worth picking up.
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
&
To the single mothers out there (and every book girlie) who wants a morally grey man to sweep them off their feet and spoil them, Adam's gonna take care of you real good. So, spread your legs and be good ;)
Eliza (FMC): 28 • Single Mom • Barely Holding it Together • Hyper-independent • Sunshine in the Darkness •
Adam (MMC): 36 • Organized Crime Boss • Golden German Shepherd Energy • Takes Protection Duty Very Seriously •
Tropes:
🌹 Secret Mâfia Boss x Single Mom
🖤 Small PNW Town
🌹 Touch Her & 💀
🖤 Nicknames
🌹 He Cooks For Her
🖤 Man Obessed
🌹 Healing
🖤 Morally Grey
🌹 Cozy Dark Romcom
🖤 Found Family
🌹 Grumpy x Sunshine
🖤 Second Chance at Love
🌹 Adorable Child Sidekick
🖤 Mental Health Rep
Rating: 💀💀💀 (3⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (dirty talk, praise, toys as teammates, D/s, 👅, 💦, self pleasure, edging, BD$M, somnophilia, 🍑 play, c0ckw@rm1ng, impact play, br33ding, O denial, 💥 on command)
T/W: DV (referenced), escaping DV (on page), panic attack (on page), SA (referenced), manipulation (on page), scars (on page), violence (on page), infidelity (not MCs, referenced), narcotics use (not MCs, referenced)
“An angel was the last thing I'd be in life, but for her, I'd put on my broken halo and bloodied, tattered wings.”
This was a totally different take on a mâfia book.
Down the Aisle is a darkish romance that weaves together themes of obsession, redemption, and second chances. Adam is a morally grey mâfia billionaire, enigmatic and ruthless to the world, yet impossibly tender toward the one woman who challenges his control—Eliza, a single mother fleeing an abusive past.
From the moment they cross paths, his fixation on her is undeniable. He is brooding, powerful, and unyielding in his protection of her, a stark contrast to his otherwise ruthless nature. She, on the other hand, is trying to rebuild her life, navigating the shadows of her trauma while striving for independence.
One of the book’s strongest elements is the Adam’s unwavering devotion to the Eliza. His obsession, while intense, never feels cruel or possessive in a way that diminishes her strength.
The reason I gave this book 3 stars was due to the extremely slow momentum of the plot, making the story feel longer than necessary. The pacing suffers from excessive internal dialogue, making certain sections feel overly drawn out.
Overall, Down the Aisle delivers on the allure of a dark romance with a powerful yet broken hero and a resilient heroine seeking a fresh start. If you enjoy mâfia romance with emotionally complex characters, this book is worth picking up.
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
February 18, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
My first book by Rose and it was a pleasant read.
TW must be checked.
Eliza's story will break your heart. She has escaped her abusive husband with a newborn and has started a new life. She is very suspicious and timid. Her experience has made her this broken angel.
Adam was fantastic. He is a Mafia Don but now leads a normal life while his mafia business are run quietly in the background. He is a Dom and cares for his loved ones dearly. His character was very carefree and amazing.
He was not expecting a little toddler to change his life, as he was walking down a supermarket aisle..
Once he saw the mother his life goals wee set. Eliza was everything he didn't know he needed.
I loved how he could see she was broken and he handles all her insecurities one by one. It would be hard for anyone to resist him when he steps up and loves Asher like his own. The way he treats her like a Queen. His tactics may be questionable but his intentions were all good (kind of) haha.
He has 30 days to prove to Eliza what kind of man he is and how she deserves to be treated. He was utterly besotted with them.
He also slowly taught her how to be a Sub.
When they finally get together it is very hot. There were some kinks I didn't know exists and it was wow. I loved seeing Eliza grow in confidence bit by bit. I liked how real it was, as you don't just get over 10 years of abuse. It took time and it all felt genuine.
Can they really have an honest relationship if both of them are hiding a truth? What will happen when her ex finds her and when Adams truth comes out? Read and find out.
This was funny, romantic, heartbreaking, emotional, love and spice.
"Please, just let me take care of you, Eliza. Let me spoil you and be your ray of sunshine, at least for today. Let me be your angel."
"You are it for me, Eliza, just know that."
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
My first book by Rose and it was a pleasant read.
TW must be checked.
Eliza's story will break your heart. She has escaped her abusive husband with a newborn and has started a new life. She is very suspicious and timid. Her experience has made her this broken angel.
Adam was fantastic. He is a Mafia Don but now leads a normal life while his mafia business are run quietly in the background. He is a Dom and cares for his loved ones dearly. His character was very carefree and amazing.
He was not expecting a little toddler to change his life, as he was walking down a supermarket aisle..
Once he saw the mother his life goals wee set. Eliza was everything he didn't know he needed.
I loved how he could see she was broken and he handles all her insecurities one by one. It would be hard for anyone to resist him when he steps up and loves Asher like his own. The way he treats her like a Queen. His tactics may be questionable but his intentions were all good (kind of) haha.
He has 30 days to prove to Eliza what kind of man he is and how she deserves to be treated. He was utterly besotted with them.
He also slowly taught her how to be a Sub.
When they finally get together it is very hot. There were some kinks I didn't know exists and it was wow. I loved seeing Eliza grow in confidence bit by bit. I liked how real it was, as you don't just get over 10 years of abuse. It took time and it all felt genuine.
Can they really have an honest relationship if both of them are hiding a truth? What will happen when her ex finds her and when Adams truth comes out? Read and find out.
This was funny, romantic, heartbreaking, emotional, love and spice.
"Please, just let me take care of you, Eliza. Let me spoil you and be your ray of sunshine, at least for today. Let me be your angel."
"You are it for me, Eliza, just know that."
February 28, 2025
3.5-4/5 ⭐️
5 🌶️
I really enjoyed this story a lot. This was a pager turner for me as I kept wanting to know more. The beginning gave me thriller vibes and reminded me so much of the movie “enough” with JLO. I loved the storyline. A single and broken and lost mom finding her true love from a man you would never expect.
Eliza is so lost , broken, insecure and has the lowest self esteem, she is strong and works hard as hell for her son Asher.
Adam is a mafia boss with a heart of gold for the ones he loves. He holds true to his word, is protective and loving. He is also demanding and always gets what he wants.
At the beginning I really thought Adam was super creepy and awkward. He fell in love with Eliza ASAP, Had his hands all over her in the second interaction and Eliza let him! I assumed she would be way more hesitant and weary of other men. Personally I felt like she let him in way too quickly and I would’ve preferred if they had more interactions before these events and the obsession started.
This was my first type of dark romance like this and mafia type book, it was new to me and I didn’t know what to expect. I love spice, I loved the obsession and the stalker vibes as I feel it goes well with dark romance and the story. I also learnt a lot about the BDSM lifestyle that was new to me as well. Although I felt like the one part with the machine for 2 hours was very unrealistic (maybe not ? Idk) but it had be saying “no way that would happen”
Regardless of those dislikes , I still think this is a great read. I felt like it was heart-warming.. the love Adam gave Eliza basically saving her and healing her inner demons, helping her flourish and become a new and happy woman. Loving Asher like his own and creating a life together and the story itself were my personal highlights.
Thank you Rose and BBPR for the ARC!
5 🌶️
I really enjoyed this story a lot. This was a pager turner for me as I kept wanting to know more. The beginning gave me thriller vibes and reminded me so much of the movie “enough” with JLO. I loved the storyline. A single and broken and lost mom finding her true love from a man you would never expect.
Eliza is so lost , broken, insecure and has the lowest self esteem, she is strong and works hard as hell for her son Asher.
Adam is a mafia boss with a heart of gold for the ones he loves. He holds true to his word, is protective and loving. He is also demanding and always gets what he wants.
At the beginning I really thought Adam was super creepy and awkward. He fell in love with Eliza ASAP, Had his hands all over her in the second interaction and Eliza let him! I assumed she would be way more hesitant and weary of other men. Personally I felt like she let him in way too quickly and I would’ve preferred if they had more interactions before these events and the obsession started.
This was my first type of dark romance like this and mafia type book, it was new to me and I didn’t know what to expect. I love spice, I loved the obsession and the stalker vibes as I feel it goes well with dark romance and the story. I also learnt a lot about the BDSM lifestyle that was new to me as well. Although I felt like the one part with the machine for 2 hours was very unrealistic (maybe not ? Idk) but it had be saying “no way that would happen”
Regardless of those dislikes , I still think this is a great read. I felt like it was heart-warming.. the love Adam gave Eliza basically saving her and healing her inner demons, helping her flourish and become a new and happy woman. Loving Asher like his own and creating a life together and the story itself were my personal highlights.
Thank you Rose and BBPR for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2025
Loved loved loveddddd. I need an Adam like yesterday!
I loved how this book showed single mothers and DV survivors in such a respectful and positive light that you can’t help but love every second of each page. I honestly loved how even after meeting Adam Eliza’s hardworking and badass single mom persona never changed and she still kept that mindset instead of changing her mind after meeting Adam.
Eliza is a single mother who managed to survive her DV relationship with her ex. She raised her kid on her own making ends meet while still giving her baby the love and affection he needed. I love the representation that went into her character and loved how adamant she was to making a happy life for her baby. She is also so hard working even if she doesn’t have to work as much after meeting Adam she still wants to have that control in her life and wants to have a sense of power in a way which I love.
Adam is a mafia thug that is as scary as a cuddly bear but can pounce and shred someone in seconds if needed. He stepped up because he really wanted for the kids benefit rather than just being focused on Eliza. He brought both Eliza and the baby to his life with no issue or complaint and I loved ittttt. I loved how he acted so sweet around Eliza and Asher but was so different when doing business. I loved the way he acted so much and his dominate side as well.
The chemistry between Adam and Eliza was so beautiful, extravagant, fire inducing, I saw fireworks each time I read. I loved their tension and banter and how they each melted for each other when the time came or when they needed to ground each other.
I loved this book so much that I couldn’t even put down for a second!
Rate: 5🌟
I loved how this book showed single mothers and DV survivors in such a respectful and positive light that you can’t help but love every second of each page. I honestly loved how even after meeting Adam Eliza’s hardworking and badass single mom persona never changed and she still kept that mindset instead of changing her mind after meeting Adam.
Eliza is a single mother who managed to survive her DV relationship with her ex. She raised her kid on her own making ends meet while still giving her baby the love and affection he needed. I love the representation that went into her character and loved how adamant she was to making a happy life for her baby. She is also so hard working even if she doesn’t have to work as much after meeting Adam she still wants to have that control in her life and wants to have a sense of power in a way which I love.
Adam is a mafia thug that is as scary as a cuddly bear but can pounce and shred someone in seconds if needed. He stepped up because he really wanted for the kids benefit rather than just being focused on Eliza. He brought both Eliza and the baby to his life with no issue or complaint and I loved ittttt. I loved how he acted so sweet around Eliza and Asher but was so different when doing business. I loved the way he acted so much and his dominate side as well.
The chemistry between Adam and Eliza was so beautiful, extravagant, fire inducing, I saw fireworks each time I read. I loved their tension and banter and how they each melted for each other when the time came or when they needed to ground each other.
I loved this book so much that I couldn’t even put down for a second!
Rate: 5🌟
February 17, 2025
**check triggers before starting**
Oh my God, I can’t even begin to describe how amazing and insanely hot this book is! It’s truly a gem, and I’m so thankful for whatever sign led me to it. I’m beyond glad I picked it up because it had me completely hooked from start to finish. I managed to finish it in just two days—I could’ve done it sooner, but I had to sleep and deal with other things. Even while doing those, I couldn’t stop thinking about this story.
Eliza is such a sweetheart, and my heart breaks for everything she endured over ten long years. The way this book addresses DV is both powerful and sensitive, making it a standout read. Pairing this heavy topic with B*SM, the author handled it brilliantly. The way the D/S scenes were written felt like I was taking a masterclass on how it works😂 And the steamy scenes—they were so intense they left me completely flustered!
Adam is the definition of a morally gray character, and I absolutely fell in love with him. His patience, care, and support for Eliza were incredibly touching. How can a man be so thoughtful yet so irresistibly hot? He’s truly the complete package. I loved how he could be gentle one moment and rough the next (if you know what I mean 🤭). And the two epilogues? Absolutely perfect. They tied everything together beautifully and left me completely satisfied.
I can’t recommend this book enough! The author is officially on my auto-buy list now. If you’re into stories featuring B*SM, especially the D/S dynamic, a morally ambiguous yet perfect male lead, a sweet and strong female lead, the cutest little munchkin named Asher, and all while tackling the heavier topic of DV, this book is a must-read. It’s that freaking good!
Oh my God, I can’t even begin to describe how amazing and insanely hot this book is! It’s truly a gem, and I’m so thankful for whatever sign led me to it. I’m beyond glad I picked it up because it had me completely hooked from start to finish. I managed to finish it in just two days—I could’ve done it sooner, but I had to sleep and deal with other things. Even while doing those, I couldn’t stop thinking about this story.
Eliza is such a sweetheart, and my heart breaks for everything she endured over ten long years. The way this book addresses DV is both powerful and sensitive, making it a standout read. Pairing this heavy topic with B*SM, the author handled it brilliantly. The way the D/S scenes were written felt like I was taking a masterclass on how it works😂 And the steamy scenes—they were so intense they left me completely flustered!
Adam is the definition of a morally gray character, and I absolutely fell in love with him. His patience, care, and support for Eliza were incredibly touching. How can a man be so thoughtful yet so irresistibly hot? He’s truly the complete package. I loved how he could be gentle one moment and rough the next (if you know what I mean 🤭). And the two epilogues? Absolutely perfect. They tied everything together beautifully and left me completely satisfied.
I can’t recommend this book enough! The author is officially on my auto-buy list now. If you’re into stories featuring B*SM, especially the D/S dynamic, a morally ambiguous yet perfect male lead, a sweet and strong female lead, the cutest little munchkin named Asher, and all while tackling the heavier topic of DV, this book is a must-read. It’s that freaking good!
February 14, 2025
"𝐷𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐴𝑖𝑠𝑙𝑒" is a dark romance that really pulls you in from the first page. Eliza’s journey as a survivor is intense, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way. Her relationship with Adam is equally compelling—he’s protective, obsessive, and totally devoted, which I know is a favorite for many fans of dark romance. But while their connection is electric, I couldn’t help but wish their romance developed a little more slowly to really build that emotional tension.
The pacing of the plot is fast, and while it’s exciting, I did feel like the mafia elements could’ve been explored more. Adam’s criminal world doesn’t feel as immersive as it could, which made it harder to fully connect to the high-stakes drama surrounding their relationship. Still, I couldn’t put the book down. The themes of survival, trust, and healing are powerful, and Chase does an amazing job portraying Eliza’s emotional journey.
I loved the strong emotional payoff at the end—it’s a satisfying blend of passion, protection, and growth. The writing is atmospheric and really lets you feel the characters' longing and fear, though a few repetitive internal monologues and long dialogue scenes slowed things down a bit.
Overall, "𝐷𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐴𝑖𝑠𝑙𝑒" is a fantastic read for fans of dark romance who enjoy high emotional stakes, passionate chemistry, and a gripping survival story.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5 stars)
The pacing of the plot is fast, and while it’s exciting, I did feel like the mafia elements could’ve been explored more. Adam’s criminal world doesn’t feel as immersive as it could, which made it harder to fully connect to the high-stakes drama surrounding their relationship. Still, I couldn’t put the book down. The themes of survival, trust, and healing are powerful, and Chase does an amazing job portraying Eliza’s emotional journey.
I loved the strong emotional payoff at the end—it’s a satisfying blend of passion, protection, and growth. The writing is atmospheric and really lets you feel the characters' longing and fear, though a few repetitive internal monologues and long dialogue scenes slowed things down a bit.
Overall, "𝐷𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐴𝑖𝑠𝑙𝑒" is a fantastic read for fans of dark romance who enjoy high emotional stakes, passionate chemistry, and a gripping survival story.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5 stars)
February 13, 2025
Down the Aisle by Rose Chase
Review: 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So don't let the cover fool you on this one. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE the cover/art for this one and it definitely does go with one side of the story but when you look at it you may just think it's all sweet Romance, right? Well, Rose Chase had not only brought the sweet in the story but also the spicy and dark. With hints of Dark Romance, traumatic/abusive pasts, secret Mafia Boss, and BDSM scenes, this was a combo read for sure. Adam is in the Mafia and runs into single mom Eliza "Down the Aisle" of a grocery store, and after that, she will only ever be his. Adam gives you an amazing mix of the Morally Grey Mafia Boss with vibes of "touch her and you die" as well as the Golden Retriever lover to Eliza where she is his Queen and shall be treated as such. Eliza has had a traumatic past dealing with her abusive ex-husband and must run and hide to survive with her son. Rose Chase created a story of second chances at love and life. This story has so many layers, secrets, and surprises for both Adam and Eliza. I really enjoyed the storyline on this one. I loved seeing Eliza's growth throughout the story, even with everything against her. Rose Chase wrote a captivating story with her words that pulled me right in. This won't be my last read from her.
Review: 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So don't let the cover fool you on this one. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE the cover/art for this one and it definitely does go with one side of the story but when you look at it you may just think it's all sweet Romance, right? Well, Rose Chase had not only brought the sweet in the story but also the spicy and dark. With hints of Dark Romance, traumatic/abusive pasts, secret Mafia Boss, and BDSM scenes, this was a combo read for sure. Adam is in the Mafia and runs into single mom Eliza "Down the Aisle" of a grocery store, and after that, she will only ever be his. Adam gives you an amazing mix of the Morally Grey Mafia Boss with vibes of "touch her and you die" as well as the Golden Retriever lover to Eliza where she is his Queen and shall be treated as such. Eliza has had a traumatic past dealing with her abusive ex-husband and must run and hide to survive with her son. Rose Chase created a story of second chances at love and life. This story has so many layers, secrets, and surprises for both Adam and Eliza. I really enjoyed the storyline on this one. I loved seeing Eliza's growth throughout the story, even with everything against her. Rose Chase wrote a captivating story with her words that pulled me right in. This won't be my last read from her.
February 14, 2025
Down the Aisle was a beautifully woven story of obsession, redemption, and second chances. From the very beginning, Adam pulled me in—his presence was impossible to ignore. There was something magnetic about the way he stepped in, offering quiet strength to Eliza without even knowing the full weight of what she’d been through. His devotion wasn’t just love—it was an all-consuming need to protect, to cherish, to make sure she never had to fight alone again. And Asher? Absolutely adorable. His moments with Adam were some of the sweetest parts of the book.
Eliza’s journey was written with such care. She carried so much—fear, doubt, a relentless need to stand on her own—and I admired how the author allowed her to navigate all of that without stripping her of her independence. She wasn’t reckless, but she wasn’t weak either. Even when she let Adam in, there was always this quiet resistance, this push and pull between wanting to trust him and needing to protect herself. It made every step of their relationship feel real, like something earned rather than given too easily.
This book wasn’t just a romance—it was an emotional experience. The kind that lingers long after the last page. If you love stories that balance darkness with tenderness, strength with vulnerability, and passion with heart, Down the Aisle is one you don’t want to miss.
Eliza’s journey was written with such care. She carried so much—fear, doubt, a relentless need to stand on her own—and I admired how the author allowed her to navigate all of that without stripping her of her independence. She wasn’t reckless, but she wasn’t weak either. Even when she let Adam in, there was always this quiet resistance, this push and pull between wanting to trust him and needing to protect herself. It made every step of their relationship feel real, like something earned rather than given too easily.
This book wasn’t just a romance—it was an emotional experience. The kind that lingers long after the last page. If you love stories that balance darkness with tenderness, strength with vulnerability, and passion with heart, Down the Aisle is one you don’t want to miss.
February 15, 2025
After running away from her abusive husband with her young son, Eliza is determined to keep herself hidden for her and her sons safety. It's hard to do so when mafia boss Adam takes a liking to them both and wants nothing more than to love and protect them.
I can't imagine the anguish and the hurt and the mental heartbreak of someone in an abusive relationship. There were times I had a hard time just reading about how lowly Eliza felt about herself.
The relationship between Adam and Eliza was so complex. It was so heart warming seeing how he was with her son and she is fighting hard to keep Adam at bay...but she just can't because he won't let her. And the whole Dom/Sub part of their relationship was...just wow. In a good way!
I will say this...I called Adam a dumb a** because of a slip up. I won't go into details about it because I don't want to spoil it, but I stand by my insult lol. This story really covered the whole process of building one self up and even at the temptation to go back, she still grew.
I'm babbling now. This is a deep story that is heavy on healing from years of abuse and how being part of a compext relationship heals her in more ways than just one. I would check your trigger warnings for this one because it's not just abuse but also in a Dom/Sub relationship.
I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would and this book is now available.
I can't imagine the anguish and the hurt and the mental heartbreak of someone in an abusive relationship. There were times I had a hard time just reading about how lowly Eliza felt about herself.
The relationship between Adam and Eliza was so complex. It was so heart warming seeing how he was with her son and she is fighting hard to keep Adam at bay...but she just can't because he won't let her. And the whole Dom/Sub part of their relationship was...just wow. In a good way!
I will say this...I called Adam a dumb a** because of a slip up. I won't go into details about it because I don't want to spoil it, but I stand by my insult lol. This story really covered the whole process of building one self up and even at the temptation to go back, she still grew.
I'm babbling now. This is a deep story that is heavy on healing from years of abuse and how being part of a compext relationship heals her in more ways than just one. I would check your trigger warnings for this one because it's not just abuse but also in a Dom/Sub relationship.
I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would and this book is now available.
March 24, 2025
Eliza has escaped her abusive cop husband to start a new life with her baby and a fake identity when she runs into a charming man at the grocery store that her baby instantly takes a liking to. He embeds himself into her life and decides that she’s his now. Adam is actually a mafia don and is ready to get revenge on her behalf to start a new family with her without her ever finding out who he actually is but all the secrets might catch up with both of them.
This was kind of a weird book, it didn’t get interesting until almost 80% into it. Adam doesn’t act like a mafioso. There’s no way he could just retire and be a stay at home dad like he is. He doesn’t have the attitude or the actions. This is also completely out of line controlling. I’ve seen some pretty unhinged controlling doms but this is next level manipulating her fear. And if he had the resources he claims to then he would’ve been able to sniff out her fake identity much easier than he did. There’s no way her friend is CIA level good. The fake medical records are already a little much. A regular fake identity for starting over wouldn’t have all that back several years. It just felt off the whole time. The spice was fun sometimes but the dom/sub relationship was not very healthy. Just didn’t love it. The multiple epilogues made it better but the pace was suppper slow.
This was kind of a weird book, it didn’t get interesting until almost 80% into it. Adam doesn’t act like a mafioso. There’s no way he could just retire and be a stay at home dad like he is. He doesn’t have the attitude or the actions. This is also completely out of line controlling. I’ve seen some pretty unhinged controlling doms but this is next level manipulating her fear. And if he had the resources he claims to then he would’ve been able to sniff out her fake identity much easier than he did. There’s no way her friend is CIA level good. The fake medical records are already a little much. A regular fake identity for starting over wouldn’t have all that back several years. It just felt off the whole time. The spice was fun sometimes but the dom/sub relationship was not very healthy. Just didn’t love it. The multiple epilogues made it better but the pace was suppper slow.
February 13, 2025
ARC Review
Let me just say, Down The Aisle completely swept me off my feet! This cozy dark romance had me hooked from the start, especially with the morally gray Adam—a mafia boss with a soft side. His instant obsession with Eliza is both intense and incredibly touching.
I've been sick for a week, and reading this was like an amazing, relaxing gift that truly lifted my spirits. Eliza’s struggles really pulled at my heartstrings. The way she navigates her past while trying to keep her son safe is so powerful. I appreciated how the book addresses heavy topics like domestic violence with sensitivity. Pairing that with steamy BDSM elements was done so well that I found myself flustered in all the right ways!
Adam is everything I love in a character—thoughtful yet irresistibly hot. His support for Eliza through her challenges was so heartwarming. The chemistry between them is off the charts, and those two epilogues? Perfection! They tied up everything beautifully and left me feeling completely satisfied.
If you’re into dark romances with rich characters and emotional depth, this book is an absolute must-read. Just a heads-up: check the trigger warnings, as it dives into some heavy issues. This book is that fantastic!
Let me just say, Down The Aisle completely swept me off my feet! This cozy dark romance had me hooked from the start, especially with the morally gray Adam—a mafia boss with a soft side. His instant obsession with Eliza is both intense and incredibly touching.
I've been sick for a week, and reading this was like an amazing, relaxing gift that truly lifted my spirits. Eliza’s struggles really pulled at my heartstrings. The way she navigates her past while trying to keep her son safe is so powerful. I appreciated how the book addresses heavy topics like domestic violence with sensitivity. Pairing that with steamy BDSM elements was done so well that I found myself flustered in all the right ways!
Adam is everything I love in a character—thoughtful yet irresistibly hot. His support for Eliza through her challenges was so heartwarming. The chemistry between them is off the charts, and those two epilogues? Perfection! They tied up everything beautifully and left me feeling completely satisfied.
If you’re into dark romances with rich characters and emotional depth, this book is an absolute must-read. Just a heads-up: check the trigger warnings, as it dives into some heavy issues. This book is that fantastic!
February 16, 2025
“𝓘'𝓭 𝓼𝓽𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓬𝓱𝓸𝓸𝓼𝓮 𝓱𝓮𝓻. 𝓔𝓿𝓮𝓻𝔂 𝓽𝓲𝓶𝓮. 𝓝𝓸 𝓶𝓪𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓷𝓪𝓶𝓮, 𝓷𝓸 𝓶𝓪𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓹𝓪𝓼𝓽, 𝓼𝓱𝓮 𝔀𝓪𝓼 𝓶𝓲𝓷𝓮.”
This was such a great story I ate these two up and little Asher will just steal your heart from the beginning.
This follows Eliza who is currently hiding from her abusive ex husband and her whole world revolves around her son Asher. Until one faithful grocery store trip when Asher decides to cling to a man in the aisle is when Adam crosses Eliza’s path.
Adam is currently the head of the mafia but deals more with the legit side until needed. From the moment Asher grabs him he is obsessed and will do whatever to get them you truly cannot help but love him especially how he takes care of her.
While this is on the softer side of dark romance it still has dark elements check your cws and tws.
~~What to Expect~~
🥀Mafia Boss X Single Mom
🥀Age Gap 8 years
🥀Small Town
🥀Secret Identity
🥀Dark Rom-Com
🥀Forced Proximity
🥀Black Cat X Golden Retriever
🥀Hurt/Comfort
🥀No 3rd Act Breakup
🥀Billionaire
~~Quote~~
🖤There’s my little rose with her thorns
🖤An angel was the last thing I’d be in life, but for her I’d put on my broken halo and bloodied tattered wings.
🖤It was obvious that whoever was writing our story up in the shy wanted to line things up for us.
This was such a great story I ate these two up and little Asher will just steal your heart from the beginning.
This follows Eliza who is currently hiding from her abusive ex husband and her whole world revolves around her son Asher. Until one faithful grocery store trip when Asher decides to cling to a man in the aisle is when Adam crosses Eliza’s path.
Adam is currently the head of the mafia but deals more with the legit side until needed. From the moment Asher grabs him he is obsessed and will do whatever to get them you truly cannot help but love him especially how he takes care of her.
While this is on the softer side of dark romance it still has dark elements check your cws and tws.
~~What to Expect~~
🥀Mafia Boss X Single Mom
🥀Age Gap 8 years
🥀Small Town
🥀Secret Identity
🥀Dark Rom-Com
🥀Forced Proximity
🥀Black Cat X Golden Retriever
🥀Hurt/Comfort
🥀No 3rd Act Breakup
🥀Billionaire
~~Quote~~
🖤There’s my little rose with her thorns
🖤An angel was the last thing I’d be in life, but for her I’d put on my broken halo and bloodied tattered wings.
🖤It was obvious that whoever was writing our story up in the shy wanted to line things up for us.
February 17, 2025
Down the Aisle by Rose Chase is the ultimate cozy dark romance vibes with a dash of mafia drama. Eliza is a total queen—a single mom who's survived the worst and is just trying to give her son a fresh start in Seaside, Oregon. Enter Adam Santini, a mafia boss hiding his demons behind charm and sweetness (yep, he’s totally swoon-worthy, despite the whole criminal thing). The instant chemistry between them is fire, but trust? Eliza's got a major guard up, and I respect that.
I loved Eliza’s strength—she’s a survivor through and through, but what I liked most was that her strength isn't just in saying "no." It's in letting herself trust Adam, even when it’s hard. Adam, though? He's got that mafia boss swagger, and honestly, the way he tries to "help" her even when she says no was a little bit of a soft spot for him. His obsession with her is a lot but also kind of irresistible.
This book is a rollercoaster of secrets, suspense, and heated romance. Both Eliza and Adam are hiding their pasts—she’s got an abusive ex to run from, and he’s got his mafia ties—and it’s a big question of whether their worlds will collide or not. It’s dark, it’s messy, and it’s the kind of romance that makes you hold your breath. But be warned—check your trigger warnings first because the dark moments are real.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved Eliza’s strength—she’s a survivor through and through, but what I liked most was that her strength isn't just in saying "no." It's in letting herself trust Adam, even when it’s hard. Adam, though? He's got that mafia boss swagger, and honestly, the way he tries to "help" her even when she says no was a little bit of a soft spot for him. His obsession with her is a lot but also kind of irresistible.
This book is a rollercoaster of secrets, suspense, and heated romance. Both Eliza and Adam are hiding their pasts—she’s got an abusive ex to run from, and he’s got his mafia ties—and it’s a big question of whether their worlds will collide or not. It’s dark, it’s messy, and it’s the kind of romance that makes you hold your breath. But be warned—check your trigger warnings first because the dark moments are real.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 16, 2025
With the secrets they were both keeping from each other I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop throughout the whole book. They do discuss some pretty heavy topics so I definitely recommend looking at the trigger warnings before you read just to make sure you aren’t blindsided. That being said, I don’t know if I’d truly call this one a dark romance because it felt so much lighter than some of the other dark romances I’ve read.
Adam might have been the softest morally grey MMC i’ve ever read. He has all the tendencies you’d expect of a morally grey Mafia Boss…installing cameras in his FMC’s house, staging a break in so she had to come live with him, breaking into her house to make her breakfast in the mornings as an attempt at wooing her. He also watches her sweet little boy every day while she works, draws her baths and does all sorts of other sweet things you’d expect from a cinnamon roll MMC.
I can’t wait to see what comes next with this series because I have a feeling as the world expands it will only draw me in more.
Adam might have been the softest morally grey MMC i’ve ever read. He has all the tendencies you’d expect of a morally grey Mafia Boss…installing cameras in his FMC’s house, staging a break in so she had to come live with him, breaking into her house to make her breakfast in the mornings as an attempt at wooing her. He also watches her sweet little boy every day while she works, draws her baths and does all sorts of other sweet things you’d expect from a cinnamon roll MMC.
I can’t wait to see what comes next with this series because I have a feeling as the world expands it will only draw me in more.
February 23, 2025
3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
“It is going to hurt, but how much it does, and the damage can be controlled by you.”
Very promising storyline. I wanted to love it but somewhere along the way it just kinda fell off.
Eliza is skittish and keeps to herself. Adam is over the top and will do anything to keep himself in her life. It’s marketed as a cozy dark rom com, but I felt it learned more towards satire more often than not. Eliza calling Adam “bub” really gave me the ick.
The pacing was off, I felt the insta love was very rushed but somehow it simultaneously was dragged out. Definitely could’ve been 100ish pages shorter.
I did love the connection between Adam and Asher. There were some parts referring to her healing that really tugged at my heart strings. Especially the epilogue.
The spice was okay. Some scenes/language was hot AF but at the same time some scenes could’ve been shorter. The Dom/sub vibe didn’t hit the way I prefer.
I loved the boat scene. Would’ve appreciated more mafia vibes from the mafia boss.
4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
“It is going to hurt, but how much it does, and the damage can be controlled by you.”
Very promising storyline. I wanted to love it but somewhere along the way it just kinda fell off.
Eliza is skittish and keeps to herself. Adam is over the top and will do anything to keep himself in her life. It’s marketed as a cozy dark rom com, but I felt it learned more towards satire more often than not. Eliza calling Adam “bub” really gave me the ick.
The pacing was off, I felt the insta love was very rushed but somehow it simultaneously was dragged out. Definitely could’ve been 100ish pages shorter.
I did love the connection between Adam and Asher. There were some parts referring to her healing that really tugged at my heart strings. Especially the epilogue.
The spice was okay. Some scenes/language was hot AF but at the same time some scenes could’ve been shorter. The Dom/sub vibe didn’t hit the way I prefer.
I loved the boat scene. Would’ve appreciated more mafia vibes from the mafia boss.
February 17, 2025
Down the Aisle is the first book in Rose Chase's Single Chances series. It is a dark romantic comedy and my first by this author. This is a mafia romance, but more on the light side.
The book is a dual PoV that follows Eliza and Adam. Eliza has relocated to a small town with her small child to get away from an abusive situation. She has taken on a new identity and has worked hard to cover her tracks. A chance encounter at a grocery store, she meets Adam. There is an instant attraction between the two, but Eliza has her guard up. Eliza is not the only one who has secrets! Adam is involved with the mafia and is known to be ruthless.
I love the evolution of Eliza’s character into a strong woman. Adam is utterly devoted to Eliza and her kiddo. Without knowing her true identity, he leaps in head-first and spoils and protects them. The book had some delicious hot and steamy spice.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
The book is a dual PoV that follows Eliza and Adam. Eliza has relocated to a small town with her small child to get away from an abusive situation. She has taken on a new identity and has worked hard to cover her tracks. A chance encounter at a grocery store, she meets Adam. There is an instant attraction between the two, but Eliza has her guard up. Eliza is not the only one who has secrets! Adam is involved with the mafia and is known to be ruthless.
I love the evolution of Eliza’s character into a strong woman. Adam is utterly devoted to Eliza and her kiddo. Without knowing her true identity, he leaps in head-first and spoils and protects them. The book had some delicious hot and steamy spice.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
February 17, 2025
Had the marvelous opportunity to read Rose's new novel Down The Aisle, thank you for the ARC!
I really enjoyed this book as a whole, it is somewhat dark without being too much and we see a strong personality in Elisa, our FMC. She has been through so many things and is so resilient because of this, that when she catches Adam's eyes, she feels its almost too good to be true.
Personally I have never read mafia romances, and I think this touches pretty lightly on this aspect of Adam's profession, which I enjoyed as we focused more on these 2 character's relationship start and flourish.
Story wise its great, I just did feel at times it loosened and then came back to the point. Pretty great first read of mine of the author.
Tropes:
💍Mafia boss
💍Single mom
💍”who did this to you”
💍good spice
💍light BDSM
Important: revise TW/CW listed on the first pages before starting the book🫶🏻
I really enjoyed this book as a whole, it is somewhat dark without being too much and we see a strong personality in Elisa, our FMC. She has been through so many things and is so resilient because of this, that when she catches Adam's eyes, she feels its almost too good to be true.
Personally I have never read mafia romances, and I think this touches pretty lightly on this aspect of Adam's profession, which I enjoyed as we focused more on these 2 character's relationship start and flourish.
Story wise its great, I just did feel at times it loosened and then came back to the point. Pretty great first read of mine of the author.
Tropes:
💍Mafia boss
💍Single mom
💍”who did this to you”
💍good spice
💍light BDSM
Important: revise TW/CW listed on the first pages before starting the book🫶🏻
February 19, 2025
I was so excited sitting down to read this book. You know that you will be hit right in the feels when your book opens with a dedication to DV survivors and single mothers. Down The Aisle more than met the promise of being a cozy dark romance.
Meet Adam: the sunshine MMC who is by no stretch of the imagination a good guy, but in spite of his position within the West Coast Mafia he is good to her (and her little boy).
Meet Eliza: the grumpy FMC who's past casts dark shadows over her present. Her bravery allowed her to flee her abusive ex with her 3 month old son. A year later she is still terrified of this man and cautious of all newcomers in her life.
I love the juxtaposition in this story, the play between good and evil and how the characters contradict expectations for where they fall on this spectrum as you dive in. Rose draws you into the characters feelings of discomfort, uncertainty, fear, anger, pain, and hope as it leads to a beautiful HEA.
Meet Adam: the sunshine MMC who is by no stretch of the imagination a good guy, but in spite of his position within the West Coast Mafia he is good to her (and her little boy).
Meet Eliza: the grumpy FMC who's past casts dark shadows over her present. Her bravery allowed her to flee her abusive ex with her 3 month old son. A year later she is still terrified of this man and cautious of all newcomers in her life.
I love the juxtaposition in this story, the play between good and evil and how the characters contradict expectations for where they fall on this spectrum as you dive in. Rose draws you into the characters feelings of discomfort, uncertainty, fear, anger, pain, and hope as it leads to a beautiful HEA.
February 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
@rose.chase.author, I absolutely adored this one. You also absolutely broke my heart, LOL. The way Eliza moves, flinches, and is afraid but bold after the physical and mental abuse was so incredibly well written I couldn't help but cry. You showed her trauma and her bravery in the best way. When I tell you, coming from someone growing up with this in the home. Well done. Not only did Eliza go through something so horrible, but she escaped and started a new life with her son. Going about her day to day and meeting the one and the only Mafia boss who is a steamy sweetheart, Adam. He stops at nothing to make her his and seek revenge for her.
Make sure you preorder this one. You have to dive into this and experience it for yourself.
@rose.chase.author, thank you so much for letting me be a part of the ARC team. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
🌶🌶🌶
@rose.chase.author, I absolutely adored this one. You also absolutely broke my heart, LOL. The way Eliza moves, flinches, and is afraid but bold after the physical and mental abuse was so incredibly well written I couldn't help but cry. You showed her trauma and her bravery in the best way. When I tell you, coming from someone growing up with this in the home. Well done. Not only did Eliza go through something so horrible, but she escaped and started a new life with her son. Going about her day to day and meeting the one and the only Mafia boss who is a steamy sweetheart, Adam. He stops at nothing to make her his and seek revenge for her.
Make sure you preorder this one. You have to dive into this and experience it for yourself.
@rose.chase.author, thank you so much for letting me be a part of the ARC team. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
February 16, 2025
I very much enjoyed getting to know Adam and Eliza intimately! I had the pleasure of ARC reading this book and enjoyed it immensely! Their love story was so amazing to see unfold on the pages...especially the healing power of Adam's love for Eliza! I am a sucker for a single-parent romance and this did not disappoint!
If you love mafia romance, get this book!
If you love he falls first, get this book!
If you love healing love, get this book!
If you love single-parent romance, get this book!
If you love to see the heroine come into her own with the help of the MMC, get this book!
If you love spicy encounters and BDSM, get this book!
If you love an alpha male, get this book!
If you love surprise chuckles, get this book!
If you love mafia romance, get this book!
If you love he falls first, get this book!
If you love healing love, get this book!
If you love single-parent romance, get this book!
If you love to see the heroine come into her own with the help of the MMC, get this book!
If you love spicy encounters and BDSM, get this book!
If you love an alpha male, get this book!
If you love surprise chuckles, get this book!
February 17, 2025
TLDR: if you aren’t a critical reader, you’ll enjoy the book.
All the credit to the author for not downplaying the aftermath of leaving an abusive relationship.
The spicy scenes and conflict scenes – where Eliza faces her ex – are well-written and thoroughly enjoyable.
But…
I was hurt in my suspension of disbelief several times when important details came out of nowhere with no heads up and no decent explanation.
Secondly, Adam’s personality gave me whiplash. While this might be realistic in real life, its not something I value in my romance heroes.
I really looked forward to reading this novel, it seemed to be right up my alley, and thematically, it was. Above mentioned points kept me from enjoying it fully.
All the credit to the author for not downplaying the aftermath of leaving an abusive relationship.
The spicy scenes and conflict scenes – where Eliza faces her ex – are well-written and thoroughly enjoyable.
But…
I was hurt in my suspension of disbelief several times when important details came out of nowhere with no heads up and no decent explanation.
Secondly, Adam’s personality gave me whiplash. While this might be realistic in real life, its not something I value in my romance heroes.
I really looked forward to reading this novel, it seemed to be right up my alley, and thematically, it was. Above mentioned points kept me from enjoying it fully.
February 26, 2025
2.5/5⭐️
I love how Adam spoils Eliza and Asher though he does employ some shady methods to get what he wants. As a mafia romance, there isn’t much violence here initially. In fact it had more of a romcom feeling to it, especially in the earlier parts of the book.
I loved that Adam cooks for her and feeds her well constantly. He truly treats her like a queen. But there were also moments when his obsession took over in a bad way. His motives were true but the execution was not as expected.
The ending veered more towards dark romance and we see the outcome of both Adam and Eliza’s secrets being revealed. Personally, I would have preferred it if they had been more honest and revealed the secrets earlier on. There was too much dishonesty between them, in my personal opinion.
I love how Adam spoils Eliza and Asher though he does employ some shady methods to get what he wants. As a mafia romance, there isn’t much violence here initially. In fact it had more of a romcom feeling to it, especially in the earlier parts of the book.
I loved that Adam cooks for her and feeds her well constantly. He truly treats her like a queen. But there were also moments when his obsession took over in a bad way. His motives were true but the execution was not as expected.
The ending veered more towards dark romance and we see the outcome of both Adam and Eliza’s secrets being revealed. Personally, I would have preferred it if they had been more honest and revealed the secrets earlier on. There was too much dishonesty between them, in my personal opinion.
April 1, 2025
Let me start off with saying I absolutely LOVE Rose Chase and her books! The only reason this one is a 4 star instead of a 5 is I personally don’t like the manipulation done on Adam’s part. The rest of the book however is amazing. And the *explicit* scenes you can skim past without ruining the story at all! I love Adam and Eliza’s love story and the touch her and die aspect of this book. Along with Eliza’s back story this book brings out all sorts of emotions and reactions! The ending itself is so adorable! I can’t wait for next year for book two nor can I wait for the rest of her books this year! If you like bully, hero, finding yourself, cat and mouse, touch her and die, and romance books you won’t be disappointed!
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