This book completely took me by surprise in the best way - what a ride!
The story is a dark mafia romance with elements of "who did this to you," second chance, "it's always been you," and one incredibly strong FMC.
Helen, the main FMC, was born into the mafia world. Desperate to escape its clutches, she runs away - only to fall right back into it when she falls for her boss, Jonathan, who just so happens to be part of a rival mafia gang. Thrust back into the dark world the mafia entails, Helen navigates the dangers and trauma that follow. Meanwhile, Jonathan shows just how devoted a man in love can be.
The pacing of the book is great, and the writing style makes it so easy to read. There are plenty of silent chuckle moments in the first half and lots of sharp, witty banter that kept me smiling. The spice doesn't really kick in until around 40% (and who doesn't love a delicious slow burn?). But when it does… it's full of praise, kink, teasing, and serious heat! 🔥
Then came that massive turning point on page 166 (IFYKYK) 😱 I half-saw it coming, but it still left me shocked. From that moment on, the story gets dark, with the whole tone shifting in the most gut-wrenching way. There are heart-warming moments, but also moments where I was literally saying, "what the actual fuck?!" - especially when the timeline suddenly jumped 17 years.
Now, I read the blurb and the trigger warnings, but the first half of the book still lulled me into believing this was just a cosy little office romance with some light mafia vibes. I assure you, the second half of the book will completely shatter that notion. The story becomes so dark, raw, and full of twists and turns that I constantly had my jaw on the floor. The pain, the emotion, the shock - I was absolutely hooked!
I also loved the moments of feminine rage and how Helen was ultimately the one who saved herself. Add in the multiple little subplots (none of which were confusing - despite not having read the rest of the interconnected series), and it honestly felt like I was binge-watching a multi-season TV show in one sitting.
This book made me laugh, gasp, and cry for the characters. It’s beautifully written, brutal at times, but so worth the ride it takes you on.
Just a note - I highly recommend checking the trigger warnings before diving in, as the book covers some very dark topics and the details can be graphic.
If you’re after a dark romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat, trying to unravel the mysteries weaved while having your heart broken then stitched back together with a burning heat - then this one’s for you!
Very grateful for the opportunity to read this ARC - the book truly blew me away!