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Hellfire Mafia
My Quince, hidden in shadows, saves the light.
Quince "Hunch" Romano stole me from the limelight—a monster with a heart he swore was broken. His family wants me dead, while he wants me as a means to end the war between us.
Hunch believes he's my cage, but I'm falling for the beast who keeps me captive.
Hellfire Mafia is a loose retelling of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Act 2 has Beauty and the Beast vibes, while Act 3 evokes Romeo and Juliet—but with a HEA.
Quince "Hunch" Romano stole me from the limelight—a monster with a heart he swore was broken. His family wants me dead, while he wants me as a means to end the war between us.
Hunch believes he's my cage, but I'm falling for the beast who keeps me captive.
Hellfire Mafia is a loose retelling of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Act 2 has Beauty and the Beast vibes, while Act 3 evokes Romeo and Juliet—but with a HEA.
- GenresRetellingsDark
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 26, 2025
1 person is currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Audrey Halliwell
15 books95 followersAudrey Halliwell writes messy, twisty, can’t-look-away romance.
The kind where the other woman has secrets, the ex-fiancé still lingers, and the plot twists slap you like a betrayal at brunch. If you’ve ever screamed at your Kindle, rewritten endings in your head, or fallen in love with a character who absolutely should’ve known better, you’re in the right place.
Audrey blames her obsession with dramatic romance on her mother—she was watching soap operas in elementary school and devouring V.C. Andrews and Gossip Girl by middle school. Armed with a college degree and an unapologetic love for emotional chaos, Audrey writes stories where women stumble through heartbreak, betrayal, and obsession before reclaiming their power.
Her heroines might be messy, but they always find their glow-up.
When she’s not plotting angsty love triangles or crafting emotionally ruined men with great hair, you’ll find her designing something on Canva or rereading her favorite tropes like it’s self-care.
The kind where the other woman has secrets, the ex-fiancé still lingers, and the plot twists slap you like a betrayal at brunch. If you’ve ever screamed at your Kindle, rewritten endings in your head, or fallen in love with a character who absolutely should’ve known better, you’re in the right place.
Audrey blames her obsession with dramatic romance on her mother—she was watching soap operas in elementary school and devouring V.C. Andrews and Gossip Girl by middle school. Armed with a college degree and an unapologetic love for emotional chaos, Audrey writes stories where women stumble through heartbreak, betrayal, and obsession before reclaiming their power.
Her heroines might be messy, but they always find their glow-up.
When she’s not plotting angsty love triangles or crafting emotionally ruined men with great hair, you’ll find her designing something on Canva or rereading her favorite tropes like it’s self-care.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
March 16, 2025
HELLFIRE MAFIA BY UDREY HALLIWELL
Release date set for the 26th of March 2025.
This retelling of the hunch back of Notre Dame with beauty and the beast and romeo and Juliet vibes mixed in with dark mafia romance was interesting.
I thought the whole premise was different.
Thank you to the author for allowing me an early copy of this book
Release date set for the 26th of March 2025.
This retelling of the hunch back of Notre Dame with beauty and the beast and romeo and Juliet vibes mixed in with dark mafia romance was interesting.
I thought the whole premise was different.
Thank you to the author for allowing me an early copy of this book
March 20, 2025
I did enjoy this a lot I loved the characters and their connection. Watching their love grow was so beautiful but I often found the flow of the plot a little choppy and hard to follow at times.
Having it be a retelling of Hunchback Of Notre Dame with Beauty And The Beast and Romeo and Juliet vibes and dark mafia was really interesting I enjoyed that alot. I think it maybe just needed to go through another editing stage it could’ve easily been rated higher.
Having it be a retelling of Hunchback Of Notre Dame with Beauty And The Beast and Romeo and Juliet vibes and dark mafia was really interesting I enjoyed that alot. I think it maybe just needed to go through another editing stage it could’ve easily been rated higher.
March 16, 2025
Quince and Esmara are the strongest love story! I loved the blend of Hunchback of Notredom, Beauty and the Beast and Romeo and Juliet. The love they share may be able to stop a long standing war between their fathers. You MUST read this book to find out everything.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 18, 2025
*****I received this free ebook from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Part beauty and the beast, Part hunchback of Notre Dame. . Part Romeo and Juliet. With two feuding mafia families romance can be dangerous. Hunch kidnaps Esmara. for her safety. What could go wrong?
Part beauty and the beast, Part hunchback of Notre Dame. . Part Romeo and Juliet. With two feuding mafia families romance can be dangerous. Hunch kidnaps Esmara. for her safety. What could go wrong?
March 31, 2025
Arc: The writing style was good. The story overall was put together for a smut book. The storyline just wasn’t for me but can see why others would like it.
March 14, 2025
I was initially really interested by the premise of this book.
A hunchback of Notre Dame retelling, mixed in with some Romeo & Juliet, along with a sprinkle of Beauty and the Beast? Sign me the f up.
Unfortunately, the execution didn’t live up to the idea.
The beginning section was such a confusing experience. It lacked sentence variation, with every line being very short and blunt. This made it seem very mechanical with little emotion, and it fell into the trap of doing more telling than showing.
Then, just before part 2 started, the writing style abruptly changed up completely. From then on, it seemed like chunks of text had been shoved together, with the tone and style changing between different conversations, place descriptions, and sex scenes.
Speaking of the sex… It was handled really strangely. It was like both of them had a personality transplant as soon as the clothes came off. Hunch became mega dominant, and Esmara became super seductive and sultry.
(And what was with the mega pee pee stamina Hunch had?? He would finish and then just keep going?? What a stallion.)
Finally, there were a bunch of continuity issues throughout, for example; they would be in one place and then suddenly be in a different place in the room, or he would lift her up when he’s already lifted her up.
The one good thing I will say is that Esmara had so much personality… but only at first. Her initial conversation with Hunch was so bizarre but it was also unique and gave her so much vibrancy. This quickly faded to grey in the middle of the book though and she lost her spunk, becoming really bland.
If the author reads this… I think you had an amazing idea! But I would seriously recommend doing a couple of more editing passes to make the whole thing more cohesive.
Would I read again? No
Would I recommend it? Not in its current form
My star rating: ★★
Note: I received an ARC version from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
My unhinged book rating system:
★★★★★+ fucking fantastic, give me ten more like it. Bury me with it. First thing I'd save if my house was on fire.
★★★★★ sheeesh this shit was good. Would definitely buy a special edition of it for my trophy shelf and rant about it to my book bestie.
★★★★ a fun read. Not necessarily the best thing to ever grace this good earth, but would check out other works from this author.
★★★ this was not my cup of tea (or glass of wine) but it had some redeemable qualities that made me keep reading.
★★ well… that was definitely a thing. This book was just not it for me. Most likely forced myself to finish while crying on the inside.
★ what the ever loving fuck were my eye balls just forced to perceive? DNF’d and metaphorically chucked out the window.
Disclaimer: Writing a book is an incredible feat and I admire anyone who has managed it. This is just my personal opinion - take it or toss it as you see fit.
A hunchback of Notre Dame retelling, mixed in with some Romeo & Juliet, along with a sprinkle of Beauty and the Beast? Sign me the f up.
Unfortunately, the execution didn’t live up to the idea.
The beginning section was such a confusing experience. It lacked sentence variation, with every line being very short and blunt. This made it seem very mechanical with little emotion, and it fell into the trap of doing more telling than showing.
Then, just before part 2 started, the writing style abruptly changed up completely. From then on, it seemed like chunks of text had been shoved together, with the tone and style changing between different conversations, place descriptions, and sex scenes.
Speaking of the sex… It was handled really strangely. It was like both of them had a personality transplant as soon as the clothes came off. Hunch became mega dominant, and Esmara became super seductive and sultry.
(And what was with the mega pee pee stamina Hunch had?? He would finish and then just keep going?? What a stallion.)
Finally, there were a bunch of continuity issues throughout, for example; they would be in one place and then suddenly be in a different place in the room, or he would lift her up when he’s already lifted her up.
The one good thing I will say is that Esmara had so much personality… but only at first. Her initial conversation with Hunch was so bizarre but it was also unique and gave her so much vibrancy. This quickly faded to grey in the middle of the book though and she lost her spunk, becoming really bland.
If the author reads this… I think you had an amazing idea! But I would seriously recommend doing a couple of more editing passes to make the whole thing more cohesive.
Would I read again? No
Would I recommend it? Not in its current form
My star rating: ★★
Note: I received an ARC version from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
My unhinged book rating system:
★★★★★+ fucking fantastic, give me ten more like it. Bury me with it. First thing I'd save if my house was on fire.
★★★★★ sheeesh this shit was good. Would definitely buy a special edition of it for my trophy shelf and rant about it to my book bestie.
★★★★ a fun read. Not necessarily the best thing to ever grace this good earth, but would check out other works from this author.
★★★ this was not my cup of tea (or glass of wine) but it had some redeemable qualities that made me keep reading.
★★ well… that was definitely a thing. This book was just not it for me. Most likely forced myself to finish while crying on the inside.
★ what the ever loving fuck were my eye balls just forced to perceive? DNF’d and metaphorically chucked out the window.
Disclaimer: Writing a book is an incredible feat and I admire anyone who has managed it. This is just my personal opinion - take it or toss it as you see fit.
March 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Unfortunately, this book did not live up to my expectations. The hunchback of note dame meets beauty and the beast meets Romeo and Juliet. I’ll admit the curiosity of how these three things come together was overwhelming. The execution…. Not so much.
Starting with the writing style, I really wasn’t impressed. I think it was very rushed and lacking in detail when it pertains to the story building. (But best believe the smutty scenes were detailed. More on that later.) Personally, it was giving YA quality with adult context.
I personally could have overlooked the writing style if the characters didn’t match the same energy. Both were so incredibly immature and naive. At first, it was too terrible until the ending and Esmara started acting like a straight up spoiled child. Paired with the writing, it definitely rubbed me the wrong way.
The storyline, though promising, was mediocre. I honestly did not get the conflict at all. I understand why “Hunch’s” father felt the need to retaliate, but I definitely didn’t understand why Hunch’s family was wronged in the first place. Think petty high school drama between mafia bosses lol. And then Hunch feeling like he needed to kidnap Esmara to protect her…. Yeah, don’t get that. I just didn’t understand his obsession with her. There wasn’t enough story building to get me on board with that at all.
And then Hunch’s plan to breed her to save her…. WTH lol.
I will say the smut was certainly on point. Of all the negative opinions I have about this book, I can’t deny that the author can seriously write some spice! Some of those scenes had me legitimately flushed lol. If the same amount of effort was put in the retest of the book as the spicy parts, I would be totally singing a different tune right about now.
Despite my opinions, I would recommend this book to a very specific audience. If you are looking for a quick read and specifically want more spice than storyline, this is right up your alley. Especially if you are into forced proximity with a breeding kink.
If you are someone who loves a great story with a sprinkle of spice, this is not the book for you.
As for me, I definitely didn’t hate it but I would have enjoyed it a lot more if the storyline and characters were better developed.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Unfortunately, this book did not live up to my expectations. The hunchback of note dame meets beauty and the beast meets Romeo and Juliet. I’ll admit the curiosity of how these three things come together was overwhelming. The execution…. Not so much.
Starting with the writing style, I really wasn’t impressed. I think it was very rushed and lacking in detail when it pertains to the story building. (But best believe the smutty scenes were detailed. More on that later.) Personally, it was giving YA quality with adult context.
I personally could have overlooked the writing style if the characters didn’t match the same energy. Both were so incredibly immature and naive. At first, it was too terrible until the ending and Esmara started acting like a straight up spoiled child. Paired with the writing, it definitely rubbed me the wrong way.
The storyline, though promising, was mediocre. I honestly did not get the conflict at all. I understand why “Hunch’s” father felt the need to retaliate, but I definitely didn’t understand why Hunch’s family was wronged in the first place. Think petty high school drama between mafia bosses lol. And then Hunch feeling like he needed to kidnap Esmara to protect her…. Yeah, don’t get that. I just didn’t understand his obsession with her. There wasn’t enough story building to get me on board with that at all.
And then Hunch’s plan to breed her to save her…. WTH lol.
I will say the smut was certainly on point. Of all the negative opinions I have about this book, I can’t deny that the author can seriously write some spice! Some of those scenes had me legitimately flushed lol. If the same amount of effort was put in the retest of the book as the spicy parts, I would be totally singing a different tune right about now.
Despite my opinions, I would recommend this book to a very specific audience. If you are looking for a quick read and specifically want more spice than storyline, this is right up your alley. Especially if you are into forced proximity with a breeding kink.
If you are someone who loves a great story with a sprinkle of spice, this is not the book for you.
As for me, I definitely didn’t hate it but I would have enjoyed it a lot more if the storyline and characters were better developed.
April 10, 2025
This is a crossover retelling mafia book. It's split into three parts. The first is the hunchback of notre dame, the second is beauty and the beast, and the third is Romeo an juliet. Its told in dual POV between Hunch and Esmara. Hunch has been hidden away ever since a rival gang targeted his family and his mother was killed and he was badly injured in a bombing. Esmara is the mafia princess of the rival gang but is intentionally oblivious to the things happening around her. While Hunch leaves the safety of his cathedral he sees Esmara and is immediately smitten unknowing of who she is and who her family is. When he does find out he tries to save her from his family by kidnapping her.
Hunch is the sweetest. His self esteem and self worth are so low he can't see how amazing he is. He tries to do his best for everyone and his protectiveness is intense. I had no doubt throughout the whole story that he would do absolutely ANYTHING to protect Esmara. I basically wanted to just give Hunch a big hug the entire book because he is so precious.
Esmara may have gotten on my nerves a tad. But it was so minute. In the end I loved her will. She stood up to anyone to make sure she was heard. She was a pretty strong character. The end plan to flush Hunch out seemed so weak. I didn't understand how that plan resulted in the eye opening epiphany it did for Hunch but I'm glad it did.
Esmara and Hunch's dads were so aggravating. Their pride led to so much misfortune for their kids. I wanted to punch some sense into each of them. They did come around somewhat towards the end but Esmara's dad and his need to be on Hunch's good side so badly also didn't match up with how the story went.
The story was cute and I did enjoy it. It was towards the end where things didn't fully make sense with the tone but it was still entertaining to read. The epilogue had my heart. I loved those two and where they ended up after everything.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
Hunch is the sweetest. His self esteem and self worth are so low he can't see how amazing he is. He tries to do his best for everyone and his protectiveness is intense. I had no doubt throughout the whole story that he would do absolutely ANYTHING to protect Esmara. I basically wanted to just give Hunch a big hug the entire book because he is so precious.
Esmara may have gotten on my nerves a tad. But it was so minute. In the end I loved her will. She stood up to anyone to make sure she was heard. She was a pretty strong character. The end plan to flush Hunch out seemed so weak. I didn't understand how that plan resulted in the eye opening epiphany it did for Hunch but I'm glad it did.
Esmara and Hunch's dads were so aggravating. Their pride led to so much misfortune for their kids. I wanted to punch some sense into each of them. They did come around somewhat towards the end but Esmara's dad and his need to be on Hunch's good side so badly also didn't match up with how the story went.
The story was cute and I did enjoy it. It was towards the end where things didn't fully make sense with the tone but it was still entertaining to read. The epilogue had my heart. I loved those two and where they ended up after everything.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
March 14, 2025
Thanks netgalley and publisher for the e-arc.
Overall rating 2.5, and my lowest ever is two so rounding up to three is generous for this. Firstly, the concept was amazing and that was what pulled me in, a retelling?! Sign me up, mafia and dark romance wow. But meh, it all failed in those categories. They felt too teenager to me, they way they both act and converse, even the mafia part of the family and the said war was too comical to be taken seriously. Her early body betrayal too, she was as her realization too was too worldy in a way of materialistic and pampered, and the way i expected him to be just naive since he was a teenager when he was first hidden, but bammm he was wordly in terms that yes he'd spent prior years already being in used in the business then having that decision being his first mafia one, doesn't add up to me. Everything unfolded so fast in the begining, it was not good. The only mafia thing here, was his family getting killed and him killing, but other than that, when he was tortured and all i couldn't get past the whiny tone of conversation. Also, it felt like the author for reaching for a lot on this, they lost focus om character building for the main characters. I was disappointed with the spice but more so on the storytelling.
Overall rating 2.5, and my lowest ever is two so rounding up to three is generous for this. Firstly, the concept was amazing and that was what pulled me in, a retelling?! Sign me up, mafia and dark romance wow. But meh, it all failed in those categories. They felt too teenager to me, they way they both act and converse, even the mafia part of the family and the said war was too comical to be taken seriously. Her early body betrayal too, she was as her realization too was too worldy in a way of materialistic and pampered, and the way i expected him to be just naive since he was a teenager when he was first hidden, but bammm he was wordly in terms that yes he'd spent prior years already being in used in the business then having that decision being his first mafia one, doesn't add up to me. Everything unfolded so fast in the begining, it was not good. The only mafia thing here, was his family getting killed and him killing, but other than that, when he was tortured and all i couldn't get past the whiny tone of conversation. Also, it felt like the author for reaching for a lot on this, they lost focus om character building for the main characters. I was disappointed with the spice but more so on the storytelling.
March 17, 2025
"My Quince, hidden in the shadows, saves the light."
Forget everything you think you know about retellings. Hellfire Mafia isn't just a nod to classics; it's a full-blown, reimagining that will leave you breathless. Quince "Hunch" Romano is forged in the fires of a brutal war, a man who steals the heroine not for malice, but for a twisted kind of protection. His heart beats with a raw intensity that pulls you in from the very first page.
This isn't your typical captive romance. It's a dark, gritty exploration of love amidst chaos. The author masterfully weaves elements of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Beauty and the Beast, and Romeo and Juliet into a seamless, electrifying narrative. Act 2, with its undeniable Beauty and the Beast undertones, showcases the tender vulnerability beneath Hunch's monstrous facade. You see the man he could be, the man the heroine sees.
The author doesn't shy away from the darkness, but ultimately, love triumphs. Hellfire Mafia is a must-read for anyone craving a dark, passionate romance with a unique twist. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, a story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.
I received a complimentary ARC copy. This review is my own and voluntary.
4.5 stars.
Forget everything you think you know about retellings. Hellfire Mafia isn't just a nod to classics; it's a full-blown, reimagining that will leave you breathless. Quince "Hunch" Romano is forged in the fires of a brutal war, a man who steals the heroine not for malice, but for a twisted kind of protection. His heart beats with a raw intensity that pulls you in from the very first page.
This isn't your typical captive romance. It's a dark, gritty exploration of love amidst chaos. The author masterfully weaves elements of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Beauty and the Beast, and Romeo and Juliet into a seamless, electrifying narrative. Act 2, with its undeniable Beauty and the Beast undertones, showcases the tender vulnerability beneath Hunch's monstrous facade. You see the man he could be, the man the heroine sees.
The author doesn't shy away from the darkness, but ultimately, love triumphs. Hellfire Mafia is a must-read for anyone craving a dark, passionate romance with a unique twist. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, a story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.
I received a complimentary ARC copy. This review is my own and voluntary.
4.5 stars.
March 11, 2025
A dark mafia romance where love thrives in the shadows.
📓Brief Description (Spoiler-Free):
- Quince “Hunch” Romano locked Esmara in his gothic cathedral.
- He claims love is his weakness, but there is a man beneath the monster.
- Can Esmara break through the darkness, or will it consume them both?
- Hellfire Mafia blends dark romance with hints of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Beauty and the Beast, and Romeo and Juliet, with a guaranteed HEA.
❤️ What I Loved:
- The classic “touch her and die” energy from the MMC.
- The characters of Hunch and Esmara were fun to follow - loved the dual POV.
🤔 What I Would Change:
- I found some plot points were rushed, whereas others felt dragged out.
📚 Recommended For:
- Fans of Katee Robert, H. D. Carlton, and Sophie Lark
- Readers who enjoy gothic romance, dark mafia, and/or retellings
💭Final Thoughts & Rating:
- I’m so appreciative of NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing me with the opportunity to review an advanced copy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📓Brief Description (Spoiler-Free):
- Quince “Hunch” Romano locked Esmara in his gothic cathedral.
- He claims love is his weakness, but there is a man beneath the monster.
- Can Esmara break through the darkness, or will it consume them both?
- Hellfire Mafia blends dark romance with hints of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Beauty and the Beast, and Romeo and Juliet, with a guaranteed HEA.
❤️ What I Loved:
- The classic “touch her and die” energy from the MMC.
- The characters of Hunch and Esmara were fun to follow - loved the dual POV.
🤔 What I Would Change:
- I found some plot points were rushed, whereas others felt dragged out.
📚 Recommended For:
- Fans of Katee Robert, H. D. Carlton, and Sophie Lark
- Readers who enjoy gothic romance, dark mafia, and/or retellings
💭Final Thoughts & Rating:
- I’m so appreciative of NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing me with the opportunity to review an advanced copy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 8, 2025
This story is loosely based on beauty and the beast, The hunchback of notre dame and some elements of Romeo and Juliette. It follows Quince “Hunch” Romano and Esmara Barbu in a mafia romance with two sides against one another.
This was good plot and it was enjoyable, I liked how protective Quince was of Esmara when she needed him he was there to help her. Esmara was a good female lead that knew what she wanted and went for it (Quince). I do feel that the explicit scenes overpowered the plot a little but did appreciate the growth of the relationship. The love that grew between the both of them was lovely to see bloom no matter what their families said. For Esmara to love Quince scars and all was so beautiful and to finally see Quince receive the love that he deserved was heartwarming after what he has been through.
I recommend this book but check trigger warnings before you go into reading !
This was good plot and it was enjoyable, I liked how protective Quince was of Esmara when she needed him he was there to help her. Esmara was a good female lead that knew what she wanted and went for it (Quince). I do feel that the explicit scenes overpowered the plot a little but did appreciate the growth of the relationship. The love that grew between the both of them was lovely to see bloom no matter what their families said. For Esmara to love Quince scars and all was so beautiful and to finally see Quince receive the love that he deserved was heartwarming after what he has been through.
I recommend this book but check trigger warnings before you go into reading !
March 17, 2025
*Note: I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley to read and review*
This was a tough book to get through.
Hellfire Mafia had the potential to be an intriguing read, but unfortunately, it missed the mark for me.
While the writing itself isn’t terrible, the story feels like an outright imitation of the works it claims to be “inspired” by rather than a fresh take. The resemblance is so strong that it often felt like a direct mimicry rather than a creative retelling.
I found myself cringing more times than I could count, and some scenes were so uncomfortable that I struggled to get through them.
It’s disappointing because I was initially drawn in by the premise—I usually enjoy retellings of classic stories like Hades and Persephone or Peter Pan and Wendy—but this one just didn’t deliver. Instead of being compelling or unique, it felt strange and underwhelming.
I had high hopes, but in the end, Hellfire Mafia fell flat.
This was a tough book to get through.
Hellfire Mafia had the potential to be an intriguing read, but unfortunately, it missed the mark for me.
While the writing itself isn’t terrible, the story feels like an outright imitation of the works it claims to be “inspired” by rather than a fresh take. The resemblance is so strong that it often felt like a direct mimicry rather than a creative retelling.
I found myself cringing more times than I could count, and some scenes were so uncomfortable that I struggled to get through them.
It’s disappointing because I was initially drawn in by the premise—I usually enjoy retellings of classic stories like Hades and Persephone or Peter Pan and Wendy—but this one just didn’t deliver. Instead of being compelling or unique, it felt strange and underwhelming.
I had high hopes, but in the end, Hellfire Mafia fell flat.
March 26, 2025
Hellfire Mafia by Audrey Halliwell
Pub date: March 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This book is a loose retelling of Hunchback of Notre Dame, Beauty and the Beast, and Romeo and Juliet. It is a dark mafia romance, make sure to check TW before reading.
I found the concept to be super cool! The setting was also interesting and I could picture it well in my head from the descriptions the author made. I felt like it had a lot of potential, but I found a lot of it to be a little repetitive. I also felt like most of the book was dragged out and it struggled to keep my attention.
I read some reviews other readers have posted just to see their input as well, and there seems to be a general consensus that there needed to be a bit more editing.
I did enjoy reading it, and again the concept was neat, so I decided to give it three stars. Thank you for the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book!
(Tagged book/review for NetGalley)
Pub date: March 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This book is a loose retelling of Hunchback of Notre Dame, Beauty and the Beast, and Romeo and Juliet. It is a dark mafia romance, make sure to check TW before reading.
I found the concept to be super cool! The setting was also interesting and I could picture it well in my head from the descriptions the author made. I felt like it had a lot of potential, but I found a lot of it to be a little repetitive. I also felt like most of the book was dragged out and it struggled to keep my attention.
I read some reviews other readers have posted just to see their input as well, and there seems to be a general consensus that there needed to be a bit more editing.
I did enjoy reading it, and again the concept was neat, so I decided to give it three stars. Thank you for the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book!
(Tagged book/review for NetGalley)
April 16, 2025
I really wanted to like this book a lot more than I did and I can see a great story here but it honestly needs a lot of work still. I love the idea of a retelling of classic stories but I think she should have focused on just one in this book. I found the writing to be very choppy in parts and there were a handful of inconsistencies in the story as well which really took me out of the book. Both Quince and Esmara seemed kind of immature and I think their connection needed more buildup, some of their dialogue was really cringey as well. There were parts that were starting to draw me in but then it would get overshadowed by an inconsistency or the way they were talking to each other. Again, I do think this could be a great story and could see myself having giving it a higher rating if it just went through some more editing.
I received a free ARC of this book from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received a free ARC of this book from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 16, 2025
Thank you to the author and the publisher for sharing a copy of this book with me on NetGalley!!!
Wow. Dark, twisted, complicated and hunchback of notre dame retelling mafia romance. It’s a lot, isn’t it? But it’s exactly what I thought it would be. Entertaining, spicy as heck, dark as heck and fast. So I can’t say anything bad about it. Of course, check your trigger warnings before getting into this book. It’s definitely a lot darker than some dark romances so I would recommend you, if you’re new to the genre to start from something else. If you’re not new to the genre and you’re curious, then definitely dive right into it. You have to know that this is more on the side of a stálkêr romance with kïdnäpping involved. But if this is the kind of dark romance that you like, then it’s perfect. Also Hunch … is not that bad in the end. Very in the end. A big bad monster who would burn down the city for her and only her … but also with extreme possessive tendencies !!! Have fun !!!
Wow. Dark, twisted, complicated and hunchback of notre dame retelling mafia romance. It’s a lot, isn’t it? But it’s exactly what I thought it would be. Entertaining, spicy as heck, dark as heck and fast. So I can’t say anything bad about it. Of course, check your trigger warnings before getting into this book. It’s definitely a lot darker than some dark romances so I would recommend you, if you’re new to the genre to start from something else. If you’re not new to the genre and you’re curious, then definitely dive right into it. You have to know that this is more on the side of a stálkêr romance with kïdnäpping involved. But if this is the kind of dark romance that you like, then it’s perfect. Also Hunch … is not that bad in the end. Very in the end. A big bad monster who would burn down the city for her and only her … but also with extreme possessive tendencies !!! Have fun !!!
March 13, 2025
I want to say thank you to the author, the publisher and netgalley for this book
Hellfire Mafia is a loose retelling of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Act 2 also has Beauty and the Beast vibes, while Act 3 evokes Romeo and Juliet—but with a HEA
This book overall is a 3 stars, the mafia romance was written well and the dynamics between the families were on point
I think the main reason I marked this down was purely becuase it seemed very quick to get into what was going on and no lead up to it, like I felt that I needed an extra book before hand (there are sprinkling of backstory though, just needed more ??)
The characters were in their late 20s but it was obvious especially for the mmc that they were very immature and hadn't experienced alot
This is worth a read if you want a dark romance but check trigger warnings and tropes
Hellfire Mafia is a loose retelling of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Act 2 also has Beauty and the Beast vibes, while Act 3 evokes Romeo and Juliet—but with a HEA
This book overall is a 3 stars, the mafia romance was written well and the dynamics between the families were on point
I think the main reason I marked this down was purely becuase it seemed very quick to get into what was going on and no lead up to it, like I felt that I needed an extra book before hand (there are sprinkling of backstory though, just needed more ??)
The characters were in their late 20s but it was obvious especially for the mmc that they were very immature and hadn't experienced alot
This is worth a read if you want a dark romance but check trigger warnings and tropes
March 27, 2025
This was dark and twisted and I absolutely loved it! When I tell you I ate this one up! This is a hunchback, beauty and the beast, Romeo and Juliet combo retelling. I loved Quince's character. I think he was an absolute sweetheart. Did he go about things the wrong way? Maybe kidnapping wasn't the way to go, but hey.. it worked out for him. Esmara on the other hand, her character sometimes just aggravated me. I feel like she was in the situation and just not really asking the right questions or trying to understand what was going on, she just went with it. Quince was definitely the one that carried the story for me. His past is dark and tragic. He lost most of his life and was still so sweet and caring and loving. It broke my heart that he didn't think he was deserving of love or affection. I loved how this ended. This was definitely worth the read!
March 8, 2025
"Hellfire Mafia" was a quick read based loosely on The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Beauty and the Beast, with a bit of Romeo and Juliet tied in. At times the complete unrealistic story line had me laughing with the absurdity but weaved in was a bit of romance. I enjoyed watching the romance between Quince "Huck" and Esmara unfold (though again, totally unrealistic) and how they fought for each other, against their feuding crime families. I also appreciate that Esmara could see beyond Quince's scars and love him for who he was, not what he looked like.
Be aware of trigger warnings before you venture into this story.
Thank you to Audrey Halliwell and Net Galley for the ARC for an honest review.
Be aware of trigger warnings before you venture into this story.
Thank you to Audrey Halliwell and Net Galley for the ARC for an honest review.
March 16, 2025
Overall, this was an engaging read that skillfully combines a dark theme with a retelling of classic fairy tales. The story features strong male and female leads who successfully navigate narratives inspired by "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," "Beauty and the Beast," and ultimately culminate in "Romeo and Juliet," all while incorporating a dark mafia element. The chemistry between Esmara and Quince had just the right amount of spice for me. I found that the story maintained its momentum until the end, and I was hoping for their happily ever after. I would love to see more development of their story and family backgrounds, as well as more detailed character descriptions to enhance the overall narrative. This book is perfect for those who enjoy breeding tropes and spicy romance.
March 12, 2025
Rating 3.5 stars but of course Goodreads doesn’t allow 1/2 stars.
This book was so interesting! I loved how it incorporated The Hunchback, B&B, and R&J. Audrey intertwined the characters stories with these stories perfectly!
Hellfire Mafia wasn’t bad but it wasn’t great. It was a good fast read. I wanted to hug the MMC so many times, his internal conflicts were very relatable and heartbreaking. The FMC was so compassionate and admirable.
This book did feel kind of cobbled together and lacked depth. I wanted more of the characters and their backstory.
It also focuses more on the FMC and MMC than the mafia aspect.
This book was so interesting! I loved how it incorporated The Hunchback, B&B, and R&J. Audrey intertwined the characters stories with these stories perfectly!
Hellfire Mafia wasn’t bad but it wasn’t great. It was a good fast read. I wanted to hug the MMC so many times, his internal conflicts were very relatable and heartbreaking. The FMC was so compassionate and admirable.
This book did feel kind of cobbled together and lacked depth. I wanted more of the characters and their backstory.
It also focuses more on the FMC and MMC than the mafia aspect.
March 28, 2025
I had high hopes for this book but struggled getting into it. Some parts in certain chapters did not make any sense. I wish there wasn’t such a lack of details…. I like my world building and character development. Too much effort was spent on the spicy scenes, rather than the story, which left me wanting. I did not fall in love with the characters. The premise of Romeo and Juliet/ Beauty and the Beast was interesting, however the execution was lacking. I forced myself to finish this book. I am sure a lot of readers will enjoy this book, it just wasn’t for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 21, 2025
This book was far better than I expected it to be in the first few pages. I held on with the expectation of it being a cheesy replica with a spin of Hunchback of Notre Dam, however it took me for a tailspin. I felt like I was always hanging on itching to turn the page to get more invested into the story. The MMC is devoted and in the beginning you don’t want to love him but his character grows on you throughout the book. I was shocked with the first few chapters. I do think the author needs to add a few more trigger warnings, I personally was fine with the events in the book but I know some people could be very triggered. Overall, this was a quick and grasping read.
March 8, 2025
Overall this was a fast paced spicy read that combines a dark theme with fairytale. The story has strong male and female leads that successfully transition through the story from Hunchback of Notre Dame to Beauty and the Beast and finally ending with Romeo and Juliet while combining a dark mafia aspect too. For parts of the story the spice overpowers the story line, but I think that’s only because the story between Quince and Esmara is such a quick read. I’d love it if there was more about their story, family histories and have more detailed characters included to expand the whole picture.
March 16, 2025
Unfortunately this was a DNF for me. I love dark romance and love story book retellings but I could only get 25% through it. The writing of the main characters just felt too immature to me. The fact that it immediately started with him kidnapping her and immediately wanting to breed her was also not something I was enjoying. I was really hoping to like it but knew if I didn't like it within 25% it probably would not get better. Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for allowing me to opportunity to read this arc.
May 22, 2025
Hellfire Mafia by Audrey Halliwell
For me, this story was an emotional rollercoaster ride, and I loved it. Hunch first acted as a mafia man, ended up killing his mom, and badly injuring himself. His father then locked him up from the outside in a cathedral, and told everyone he was dead. This story has so many twists and turns in it, I highly recommend this story. I cried so much during this story, I had a hard time putting the book down till I found a happier spot. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is my honest opinion.
For me, this story was an emotional rollercoaster ride, and I loved it. Hunch first acted as a mafia man, ended up killing his mom, and badly injuring himself. His father then locked him up from the outside in a cathedral, and told everyone he was dead. This story has so many twists and turns in it, I highly recommend this story. I cried so much during this story, I had a hard time putting the book down till I found a happier spot. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is my honest opinion.
March 10, 2025
This book was a fast paced spicy read.
Now for me I prefer when the spice feels like an addition to the book rather than the book an addition to spice and mostly this but was the latter, their was a few times I felt as though it WAS a bit overshadowed by the smut but it wasn’t too bad.
Overall I really enjoyed this hunch back of notre dame/romeo and Juliet mash up type book it was a really interesting read.
Now for me I prefer when the spice feels like an addition to the book rather than the book an addition to spice and mostly this but was the latter, their was a few times I felt as though it WAS a bit overshadowed by the smut but it wasn’t too bad.
Overall I really enjoyed this hunch back of notre dame/romeo and Juliet mash up type book it was a really interesting read.
March 9, 2025
3.5 rounded up to 4. Perfect if you enjoy breeding tropes and spice. I felt the characters were too juvenile for being mid, late twenties. While the words were there of emotional attachment, I didn’t feel it through the characters. But I still enjoyed the read and the hunchback x beauty and the beast mafia retelling
March 11, 2025
The consept sounds great but is written in a way where it lacks emotion and has repetitive language. There are points that should be very emotional for the character to remember and instead presented in an informative way. This also impacts general dialog where the conversations don't flow naturally and again feel more informative.
March 19, 2025
I have never read a Hunchback of Notre Dame retelling before, and I can say I really enjoyed it. “Hunch” was so cute for someone who could be a bad guy, and that he wasn’t. His obsession to save Esmara, but also when he finds out who she is and what that means to him, made my heart hurt. Let’s not forget Esmara and her feared love and dedication to Hunch.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
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