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Morelli Family #1
Married to the Mobster
An alternative cover edition can be found here
Years ago I saved his life, and we spent one hot night together before he disappeared. Now this bad boy's all grown up, and living a dangerous life. But when his Family decides to send a message to my father, it's my life on the line.
Only he can't bring himself to do it when he realizes who I am.
He bargains for my life.
He argues to keep me as a hostage instead of killing me.
He even agrees to marry me, but not for love.
Marrying me is the only way he can repay the debt he owes me.
He tells me he'll keep me alive only as long as his Boss allows it.
What he doesn't know is that I've loved him since the first moment I laid eyes on him. I'll take him any way I can get him. Sleeping with the enemy never felt so good...
But is there someone else who wants me dead?
Years ago I saved his life, and we spent one hot night together before he disappeared. Now this bad boy's all grown up, and living a dangerous life. But when his Family decides to send a message to my father, it's my life on the line.
Only he can't bring himself to do it when he realizes who I am.
He bargains for my life.
He argues to keep me as a hostage instead of killing me.
He even agrees to marry me, but not for love.
Marrying me is the only way he can repay the debt he owes me.
He tells me he'll keep me alive only as long as his Boss allows it.
What he doesn't know is that I've loved him since the first moment I laid eyes on him. I'll take him any way I can get him. Sleeping with the enemy never felt so good...
But is there someone else who wants me dead?
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 9, 2020
1365 people are currently reading
2552 people want to read
About the author
Leighton Greene
40 books368 followersLeighton Greene has been writing stories since she was old enough to hold a pencil. Her first book was a choose-your-own-adventure style book about deciding what to eat for breakfast. It didn't shake the New York Times bestseller list, but she still has a copy of it.
After spending some time writing in academia, fanfiction and corporate reporting, Leighton decided she should probably do what she actually wanted to do, which was to write commercial fiction. So she did. She writes gay romance and, when the mood strikes, erotica as L.J. Greene.
Leighton lives with her partner and her cockatiel on the east coast of Australia.
(Source: Amazon.com)
After spending some time writing in academia, fanfiction and corporate reporting, Leighton decided she should probably do what she actually wanted to do, which was to write commercial fiction. So she did. She writes gay romance and, when the mood strikes, erotica as L.J. Greene.
Leighton lives with her partner and her cockatiel on the east coast of Australia.
(Source: Amazon.com)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 420 reviews
August 2, 2023
Why are authors allergic to groveling?
Sex ≠ an adequate apology
Sex ≠ an adequate apology
November 12, 2021
dnf @ 40%.
i'm just not feeling this.😔
i'm just not feeling this.😔
May 16, 2023
*4.5* An incredibly unique idea to have an arranged gay marriage in a mobster book! This mafia story is relationship heavy, and I appreciate that. It’s a lighter and doesn’t take itself too seriously.
The main joy of reading this story was the character of Finch. Unashamedly just himself. Raised in wealth, and surrounded by luxury, he is used to being high on life (and other things).
I’ve been blessed with beauty as well as brains, with a mouth made for sucking dick as much as talking smack. That mouth has got me into trouble before, and it will again, no doubt.
His weekends are spent partying, dancing at clubs, one night stands, and he knows exactly what he wants as soon as he sets his eyes on Luca.
The way his hips move in those black skinny jeans, the way he winds his body as he dances alone, eyes half-closed but with all eyes on him, the way he blocks out the world: it all suggests he’s confident, cocky, too sure of himself.
Luca isn’t your standard, every day mafia man.
Growing up gay in a tough neighborhood with the inability to pretend to be something you’re not means you get used to pain, fast.
There is an underlying softness to Luca, which you would not normally find in a mobster family. He’s had a very tough life, but there is something about Finch that draws him in.
From their marriage vows, to the yacht, not to mention the tattoo, this story was refreshing and unique. Crazy hot sex scenes and a sweet intimate connection between these two, had me downloading book two!
Ends with cliffhanger.
The main joy of reading this story was the character of Finch. Unashamedly just himself. Raised in wealth, and surrounded by luxury, he is used to being high on life (and other things).
I’ve been blessed with beauty as well as brains, with a mouth made for sucking dick as much as talking smack. That mouth has got me into trouble before, and it will again, no doubt.
His weekends are spent partying, dancing at clubs, one night stands, and he knows exactly what he wants as soon as he sets his eyes on Luca.
The way his hips move in those black skinny jeans, the way he winds his body as he dances alone, eyes half-closed but with all eyes on him, the way he blocks out the world: it all suggests he’s confident, cocky, too sure of himself.
Luca isn’t your standard, every day mafia man.
Growing up gay in a tough neighborhood with the inability to pretend to be something you’re not means you get used to pain, fast.
There is an underlying softness to Luca, which you would not normally find in a mobster family. He’s had a very tough life, but there is something about Finch that draws him in.
From their marriage vows, to the yacht, not to mention the tattoo, this story was refreshing and unique. Crazy hot sex scenes and a sweet intimate connection between these two, had me downloading book two!
Ends with cliffhanger.
September 15, 2023
A mafia story with an actual plot, pretty well done. The writing style is beautiful and the characters are pretty perfect.
Finch is wonderfully different. I loved him with all my heart. Uniquely sassy with brains and strength.
I’ve got a devil in me that makes me say stupid shit, makes me take chances just to see what happens. A curious devil. 🤡
Well, and Luca has a thick head, he was really annoying sometimes, even if he just wanted to protect.
I need him to be miserable in this marriage, because one moment of joy in front of the wrong person will kill him. 🙄
The beginning of this marriage infuriated me, it was so not nice and the miscommunication or non-communication was the worst. Luckily Finch found his footing and got Luca on the right track.
And as for the sexy parts, you have to read for yourself. I can only say this much ... pretty amazing.
I turn and lean on the island counter, pulling my asscheeks open for him. There’s a deep silence behind me, so I glance over my shoulder and give him a sly smile. “Come on. Cream me, baby.” 🤩🥵🤩
Finch is wonderfully different. I loved him with all my heart. Uniquely sassy with brains and strength.
I’ve got a devil in me that makes me say stupid shit, makes me take chances just to see what happens. A curious devil. 🤡
Well, and Luca has a thick head, he was really annoying sometimes, even if he just wanted to protect.
I need him to be miserable in this marriage, because one moment of joy in front of the wrong person will kill him. 🙄
The beginning of this marriage infuriated me, it was so not nice and the miscommunication or non-communication was the worst. Luckily Finch found his footing and got Luca on the right track.
And as for the sexy parts, you have to read for yourself. I can only say this much ... pretty amazing.
I turn and lean on the island counter, pulling my asscheeks open for him. There’s a deep silence behind me, so I glance over my shoulder and give him a sly smile. “Come on. Cream me, baby.” 🤩🥵🤩
May 23, 2024
Reread/Relisten #2: May 2024
Yes, my mood made me change series because I could feel a slump forming if I didn't switch it up! But anyways, the third book is on Everand for Audio, so I am doing a reread of the first two to get prepared for the third! And this was a great time again, I mean who doesn't like a sassy twink and his macho mob boss of a husband haha!
Reread/Relisten #1: December 2023
Because I missed the audio and these two! Now on to book 2!
And from Leighton Greene's FB Page she is going to be releasing the audios for the rest of the series within the next year/year and a half!! woot woot!
Original Read/Listen: October 2023
Audio: 5 stars love Michael Ferraiuolo. Audio can be found on Everand (Scribd)!
Book: 4-4.5 stars
This was a pleasant surprise, and I actually really enjoyed this book! I can’t wait to jump in to book 2!
Luca’s attitude for a lot of the book was annoying, but once he got his head out of his ass and opened up to Finch it became better! And Finch, I loved his character haha he was right amount of sass and strong!
Overall great find!
Yes, my mood made me change series because I could feel a slump forming if I didn't switch it up! But anyways, the third book is on Everand for Audio, so I am doing a reread of the first two to get prepared for the third! And this was a great time again, I mean who doesn't like a sassy twink and his macho mob boss of a husband haha!
Reread/Relisten #1: December 2023
Because I missed the audio and these two! Now on to book 2!
And from Leighton Greene's FB Page she is going to be releasing the audios for the rest of the series within the next year/year and a half!! woot woot!
Original Read/Listen: October 2023
Audio: 5 stars love Michael Ferraiuolo. Audio can be found on Everand (Scribd)!
Book: 4-4.5 stars
This was a pleasant surprise, and I actually really enjoyed this book! I can’t wait to jump in to book 2!
Luca’s attitude for a lot of the book was annoying, but once he got his head out of his ass and opened up to Finch it became better! And Finch, I loved his character haha he was right amount of sass and strong!
Overall great find!
March 1, 2021
5 stars story!! Gah! I fucking loved this book! So happy it is a series!
July 27, 2021
I'm in a mobster romance kinda mood. I admit, it took me several chapters to get into this book. But, once I really got to know how each hero ticked, I really enjoyed the way the heroes began to trust and communicate together. Don't get me wrong, there were plenty of times I wanted to knock these two knuckleheads upside the head, but I really loved how, in the end, devoted they are to one another.
Not only are they a force to be reckoned with, together as a team, I feel like they can conquer just about anything thrown their way. Together. Forever.
4.5 stars rounded up, because it did take me a while to really get invested in these men and their story. Otherwise, it would be a five star read for me.
Not only are they a force to be reckoned with, together as a team, I feel like they can conquer just about anything thrown their way. Together. Forever.
4.5 stars rounded up, because it did take me a while to really get invested in these men and their story. Otherwise, it would be a five star read for me.
dropped
August 17, 2022dnf @40%
Once more I need to acknowledge that mafia romances are just not my cuppa - despite a promising premise. This one started out pretty cool actually but soon I got annoyed by the typical behaviour induced by mobster life and bored by the plot. So I called it quits at around 40% and just skipped to the end to see where it ends. And what can I say. I didn’t care.
Once more I need to acknowledge that mafia romances are just not my cuppa - despite a promising premise. This one started out pretty cool actually but soon I got annoyed by the typical behaviour induced by mobster life and bored by the plot. So I called it quits at around 40% and just skipped to the end to see where it ends. And what can I say. I didn’t care.
Read
May 2, 2021Oh, I just hate this book. I’m not going to rate it because it’s well written, but I just don’t like the main characters. Luca wants to be the head of a crime family , but he’s a wimp. He’s afraid of all the other families. Finn is a total bore. He’s arrogant, pushy, and a down right creep. I felt sorry for him a little after the wedding. Luca was so awful that I would have walked out. He put up with it. I’m sure there’s an HEA, but to be honest I don’t care.
dnf
March 30, 2022Nope, not for me. Not a fan of hot and cold to the point of being ridiculous.
January 3, 2024
I am NOT going back for more.
![Profile Image for annob [on hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1674812294i%2F68231680._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
December 11, 2022
4+ stars!
Normally I'm not a fan of mafia romances, but I do love this author's writing style. Baby bird Finch was fabulously self-confident. Up and coming Luca, whose ambition and brooding was equally appealing. Even though I had figured out the ending twist early on, I highly enjoyed their story. It had a fast paced, dangerous vibe I liked. On to their sequel right away!
Normally I'm not a fan of mafia romances, but I do love this author's writing style. Baby bird Finch was fabulously self-confident. Up and coming Luca, whose ambition and brooding was equally appealing. Even though I had figured out the ending twist early on, I highly enjoyed their story. It had a fast paced, dangerous vibe I liked. On to their sequel right away!
![Profile Image for Megan [At The Cottage].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1634561405i%2F25103878._UY200_CR50%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
August 17, 2022
MM Romance
Mafia-Arranged Marriage-Instalove
Part 1 of a Duet (HFN-No cliffhanger)
3 Stars ⭐️
I’m trying to read books I own because my kindle is where books go to die. Luckily, this gem was free as was its sequel but at this point I am not sure if I care enough to continue on. I liked this at first but as time went on, I found myself laughing at the sheer absurdity of this book because not only was Luca not very “mobstery” despite being a Capo but the dialogue at times had me cringing. If I didn’t own this there is a high possibility I would have DNF’d it but saying that, it did seem to improve as time went on and I never felt bored.
I was hoping the sex scenes would have had a bit of daddy kink at some point because Finch was such a brat and if Luca is this wannabe mob boss, why not play up on that? Finch actually reminded me of Kit from “Lure (A Hitman’s Bait)” by Gianni Holmes which is probably why I wanted the daddy kink and if this one was anything like that book, the wagging dialogue would have made more sense. (See Below) It definitely would have made the sex scenes less repetitive but some were still hot when the dialogue wasn’t creeping me out. I’ll provide some examples of the cringe 😬 factor.
~At 38%…”I’m sitting behind him, and I take in the sight of his perfect ass, beautiful balls hanging below, and his cock, hard and wagging under his belly.”
~My note says: Wagging? Like a dog’s tail? Wtf
~So, imagine my surprise when at 64% this appears and then I can’t stop laughing. 🤣🤣: ”He’s thick and still filling out, so it wags like a tail as he crawls onto the bed, on top of me.”
~And then this little gem appears in almost the next sentence: ”I give his shaft some strokes, pulling him into my mouth like I’m milking a cow”
~Like Ew.
Why is it so hard to DNF a book you own? But then around 75% this book picks up and I’m not sure if what happened was unexpected or if I just wasn’t paying attention but it was interesting enough for me to finish this book and think 🤔 “Reading book two sounds like a good idea” 🤣🤣 Will I read it? Usually when the sequel of a duet is out, I rush to read that shit immediately but considering I fed the cats, did a load of laundry, cleaned the kitchen, wrote this review etc instead of picking it right up when I own it at that, it makes me think it might be awhile before I get aboard this train ride again. Luckily for me it had a HFN so I feel no need to rush back to it although even if it was a true cliffhanger, I can’t say I would have rushed back anyway. 😂😂
This entire review contradicts itself constantly but Luca did that throughout the entire book so at least I’m staying somewhat consistent. But because of that maybe don’t take this review too seriously because I obviously have no idea how I actually feel. 😂😂
Mafia-Arranged Marriage-Instalove
Part 1 of a Duet (HFN-No cliffhanger)
3 Stars ⭐️
I’m trying to read books I own because my kindle is where books go to die. Luckily, this gem was free as was its sequel but at this point I am not sure if I care enough to continue on. I liked this at first but as time went on, I found myself laughing at the sheer absurdity of this book because not only was Luca not very “mobstery” despite being a Capo but the dialogue at times had me cringing. If I didn’t own this there is a high possibility I would have DNF’d it but saying that, it did seem to improve as time went on and I never felt bored.
I was hoping the sex scenes would have had a bit of daddy kink at some point because Finch was such a brat and if Luca is this wannabe mob boss, why not play up on that? Finch actually reminded me of Kit from “Lure (A Hitman’s Bait)” by Gianni Holmes which is probably why I wanted the daddy kink and if this one was anything like that book, the wagging dialogue would have made more sense. (See Below) It definitely would have made the sex scenes less repetitive but some were still hot when the dialogue wasn’t creeping me out. I’ll provide some examples of the cringe 😬 factor.
~At 38%…”I’m sitting behind him, and I take in the sight of his perfect ass, beautiful balls hanging below, and his cock, hard and wagging under his belly.”
~My note says: Wagging? Like a dog’s tail? Wtf
~So, imagine my surprise when at 64% this appears and then I can’t stop laughing. 🤣🤣: ”He’s thick and still filling out, so it wags like a tail as he crawls onto the bed, on top of me.”
~And then this little gem appears in almost the next sentence: ”I give his shaft some strokes, pulling him into my mouth like I’m milking a cow”
~Like Ew.
Why is it so hard to DNF a book you own? But then around 75% this book picks up and I’m not sure if what happened was unexpected or if I just wasn’t paying attention but it was interesting enough for me to finish this book and think 🤔 “Reading book two sounds like a good idea” 🤣🤣 Will I read it? Usually when the sequel of a duet is out, I rush to read that shit immediately but considering I fed the cats, did a load of laundry, cleaned the kitchen, wrote this review etc instead of picking it right up when I own it at that, it makes me think it might be awhile before I get aboard this train ride again. Luckily for me it had a HFN so I feel no need to rush back to it although even if it was a true cliffhanger, I can’t say I would have rushed back anyway. 😂😂
This entire review contradicts itself constantly but Luca did that throughout the entire book so at least I’m staying somewhat consistent. But because of that maybe don’t take this review too seriously because I obviously have no idea how I actually feel. 😂😂
December 16, 2020
"What do you know?" I ask.
"You're crazy like I'm crazy," he says.
I'm legitimately surprised that I enjoyed and loved this. I get why most people are giving this the 3 stars treatment but honestly I didn't care. Love the politics, the characters, and the hot sizzling unconventional romance. The writing is very fast-paced so no dull moments for me in here even though Finch and Luca infuriated me at times. Excited for the next one!
August 13, 2025
I have neither the time nor the inclination to write a proper review for this one 😅 I may have considered dropping this had I not been listening to the audiobook, but Michael F did a phenomenal job, particularly with the variety of Italian and Irish mobster voices he used. I'm always astonished at the sheer number of voices he can manage in a single book! 😌 In the end, I kept listening and ended up enjoying it once things picked up ✌🏻
April 29, 2024
I read (KU) and listened (Hoopla) to this book and liked it both ways. The narrator is top notch. He did such an amazing job at distinguishing voices and vibes. I've said it before and I'll say it again- it's literally their job, but so many narrators can't with the separate voices.
Anyhoo. Some things to know/tropes:
🏳🌈 mobster
🏳🌈 forced marriage
🏳🌈 "your crazy matches my crazy"
🏳🌈 drug use, not always in the fun way :/
🏳🌈 Meet cute brush with death (The mc's words lol. He definitely has that crazy that says "I don't care if I die" which I really like in a book).
🏳🌈 strict top/bottom
I looooove Finch's sass. I love his ego and his death wish and his determination to get and keep his man. Even at the end when he .
I also liked Luca. Not as much. I like how despite being gay he refused to give up his dream of being a uh..mob boss? I mean, we all gotta have dreams right. He's not letting a bunch of homophobic NY Mobsters hold him back. No. And he's amazing at his job. So much so he's able to not let his emotions get in the way of him getting ahead. Until Finch that is. I love how fast the first few chapters of the book move. I love when a story jumps in with two feet. Hits the ground running. All that jazz. Can't wait to read book two!
Anyhoo. Some things to know/tropes:
🏳🌈 mobster
🏳🌈 forced marriage
🏳🌈 "your crazy matches my crazy"
🏳🌈 drug use, not always in the fun way :/
🏳🌈 Meet cute brush with death (The mc's words lol. He definitely has that crazy that says "I don't care if I die" which I really like in a book).
🏳🌈 strict top/bottom
I looooove Finch's sass. I love his ego and his death wish and his determination to get and keep his man. Even at the end when he .
I also liked Luca. Not as much. I like how despite being gay he refused to give up his dream of being a uh..mob boss? I mean, we all gotta have dreams right. He's not letting a bunch of homophobic NY Mobsters hold him back. No. And he's amazing at his job. So much so he's able to not let his emotions get in the way of him getting ahead. Until Finch that is. I love how fast the first few chapters of the book move. I love when a story jumps in with two feet. Hits the ground running. All that jazz. Can't wait to read book two!
April 22, 2020
For some reason I have been really into mob themed books lately so I jumped at the opportunity to read this bad boy. And, I liked it. It was sexy, enjoyable and did scratch that mob themed itch I have been having. But, I spent a lot of this book wanting to bang my head against a wall...especially towards the end. There were some choices, misunderstandings and just plain drama that I could’ve lived without. Despite that if you’re looking for an enjoyable book -- this could be it for you!
3.5 stars/b>
3.5 stars/b>
March 22, 2021
Interesting and slightly different take on a m/m mobster romance.
This starts when Finch and Luca meet 5 years prior to the main events of the story, and before Luca is ever the big boss of one of the Italian mob families in NYC. Even when they meet 5 years later, Luca is making his way up, but he still isn't in a position of huge power yet. This is them kinda making their way to the top as a team, although Luca tries to push that away at every opportunity.
When these two meet in the 5 years prior, there is instant attraction, and Finch is looking for another quick fuck in a club, as he's been doing for quite a while, but things are different with Luca. Not only because Luca has to deal with mob stuff and runs into trouble that Finch also stumbles on, but because by the end of the night Finch is declaring that he loves Luca.
But they've just met, and even though Luca feels something too, he's trying to make his way up in the mob world, and Finch isn't a part of it.
But 5 years later, Finch is taken by Luca's men - well, technically Luca works for a Capo, someone who has their own little gang within the whole of the crime family, but Luca does most of the work for the guy - and they meet face to face after 5 years. The Capo wants Finch dead - because of Finch's father who was a part of the Irish mob but has now gone "straight" and legal and all that -but Luca talks to the Don and is able to convince him to let Finch live with a marriage of convenience, to keep Finch's father reigned in.
And so these two get married. It's supposed to be a forced thing. Luca tries to act like it is, because the Capo hates Luca and hates Finch and wants them dead, but as long as they seem like they hate the forced marriage, they'll live. But if he sees that it's real between them, he'll kill them, even if it goes against the Don's wishes.
And Luca already feels a protectiveness over Finch, and so he runs pretty hot and cold with Finch. Because he wants to seem like he doesn't want it, but he totally does, and there are times he gives in to Finch.
I personally got frustrated with the hot and cold thing at times. It felt like Luca did it so much that it got a little jarring. One second he was acting like he didn't like Finch and that he would "never love him" and the next he was caring for him and worried about him and a little soft with him. It was fine at first, but after awhile it got tiring. He told Finch the 411 at times, but I felt like he never fully laid it all out on the line so Finch would understand completely. Not until later in the book, which caused unnecessary angst and tension, imo.
I also didn't always quite love Finch, tbh. I liked him, and I felt for him, and I even understood his outlook on life because of what he'd been through. I even felt he was a badass MF and I loved when he stood up to Luca. But at times, more early on, he got on my nerves a little. He wasn't always likable, imo. I can't even exactly pinpoint it, but I wasn't always loving this character.
Not to say I didn't come to love him or that I disliked him or anything. He just wasn't my favorite all the time. But I kind felt that with Luca too with his hot and cold routine, so hence the 4 stars instead of 5 stars. Also part of that star off is that it took a bit for me to feel the chemistry between these two. It came eventually, but I wasn't quite feeling it at first.
But otherwise, I enjoyed this a lot. I liked seeing something different with this mobster tale. Luca wasn't already a boss, and he didn't even know how to be refined or how to dress to impress, or how rich people did little things like just which forks to use during dinner. Which makes sense, as Luca wasn't born into the mob life, and grew up poor. And that's where Finch, who did grow up rich, comes in to teach his man how to look the part. Luca already knew how to be intimidating and smart and calculating. He just didn't know how to look it it as well.
These two truly are a team, as Finch wanted from the start. I do look forward to reading the second in this series with Luca as the boss, and seeing how he becomes a Boss to be feared, with his angel at his side.
This starts when Finch and Luca meet 5 years prior to the main events of the story, and before Luca is ever the big boss of one of the Italian mob families in NYC. Even when they meet 5 years later, Luca is making his way up, but he still isn't in a position of huge power yet. This is them kinda making their way to the top as a team, although Luca tries to push that away at every opportunity.
When these two meet in the 5 years prior, there is instant attraction, and Finch is looking for another quick fuck in a club, as he's been doing for quite a while, but things are different with Luca. Not only because Luca has to deal with mob stuff and runs into trouble that Finch also stumbles on, but because by the end of the night Finch is declaring that he loves Luca.
But they've just met, and even though Luca feels something too, he's trying to make his way up in the mob world, and Finch isn't a part of it.
But 5 years later, Finch is taken by Luca's men - well, technically Luca works for a Capo, someone who has their own little gang within the whole of the crime family, but Luca does most of the work for the guy - and they meet face to face after 5 years. The Capo wants Finch dead - because of Finch's father who was a part of the Irish mob but has now gone "straight" and legal and all that -but Luca talks to the Don and is able to convince him to let Finch live with a marriage of convenience, to keep Finch's father reigned in.
And so these two get married. It's supposed to be a forced thing. Luca tries to act like it is, because the Capo hates Luca and hates Finch and wants them dead, but as long as they seem like they hate the forced marriage, they'll live. But if he sees that it's real between them, he'll kill them, even if it goes against the Don's wishes.
And Luca already feels a protectiveness over Finch, and so he runs pretty hot and cold with Finch. Because he wants to seem like he doesn't want it, but he totally does, and there are times he gives in to Finch.
I personally got frustrated with the hot and cold thing at times. It felt like Luca did it so much that it got a little jarring. One second he was acting like he didn't like Finch and that he would "never love him" and the next he was caring for him and worried about him and a little soft with him. It was fine at first, but after awhile it got tiring. He told Finch the 411 at times, but I felt like he never fully laid it all out on the line so Finch would understand completely. Not until later in the book, which caused unnecessary angst and tension, imo.
I also didn't always quite love Finch, tbh. I liked him, and I felt for him, and I even understood his outlook on life because of what he'd been through. I even felt he was a badass MF and I loved when he stood up to Luca. But at times, more early on, he got on my nerves a little. He wasn't always likable, imo. I can't even exactly pinpoint it, but I wasn't always loving this character.
Not to say I didn't come to love him or that I disliked him or anything. He just wasn't my favorite all the time. But I kind felt that with Luca too with his hot and cold routine, so hence the 4 stars instead of 5 stars. Also part of that star off is that it took a bit for me to feel the chemistry between these two. It came eventually, but I wasn't quite feeling it at first.
But otherwise, I enjoyed this a lot. I liked seeing something different with this mobster tale. Luca wasn't already a boss, and he didn't even know how to be refined or how to dress to impress, or how rich people did little things like just which forks to use during dinner. Which makes sense, as Luca wasn't born into the mob life, and grew up poor. And that's where Finch, who did grow up rich, comes in to teach his man how to look the part. Luca already knew how to be intimidating and smart and calculating. He just didn't know how to look it it as well.
These two truly are a team, as Finch wanted from the start. I do look forward to reading the second in this series with Luca as the boss, and seeing how he becomes a Boss to be feared, with his angel at his side.
August 15, 2022
“Just waiting for your kiss, Prince Charming.”
“Oh, I’m no prince, angel. But I don’t think you want a prince, do you? “I pull off the rest of my clothes and his breath catches as he gets an eyeful of my cock. I crawl onto the bed, over his body. “No, I think you prefer trash like me, don’t you?” I make my way up, knees on either side of his arms, dick wagging around in his face. “I think you like getting dirty with the rats and then washing yourself clean when you’re done. Isn’t that right?”
— Mafia romance
— mobster/poor little rich kid
— hookup-to-lovers
— kidnapping
— marriage of convenience
— insta-love
— hurt/comfort
— steamy
Was this predictable? Yes. Did I give a damn? Nuh-uh. Why? Cause that shit was entertaining! Yeah it really played hard into the dysfunctional poor little rich boy falling for a thuggish mobster trope, but I just didn’t care. Don’t expect this to tax your brain cells, but it’s fun nonetheless.
Finch, the son of a powerful and rich Boston kingpin, and Luca, a foot soldier rising in the New York mob, have an unforgettable one night stand, a night where Finch also ends up saving Luca’s life when he’s attacked by a rival crew. Finch falls hard for Luca that night and knows that he’s the man for him forever, but Luca is young and ambitious and has no place in his life for a relationship. Yet Finch leaves an impression on Luca that he can never forget.
Finch and Luca unexpectedly cross paths five years later when Luca is ordered to kidnap and murder Howard Fincher Donovan III—not knowing that this is the same “Finch” who continues to haunt his memories. Luca can’t bring himself to kill Finch and is ordered by his Don to marry him as punishment and as a means of gaining leverage on Finch’s father. But lots of people still want Finch dead and before long Luca realizes that he’s no longer protecting Finch out of a sense of obligation, but because he loves him. Plus bonus points, they have lots and lots of steamy sex.
“Oh, I’m no prince, angel. But I don’t think you want a prince, do you? “I pull off the rest of my clothes and his breath catches as he gets an eyeful of my cock. I crawl onto the bed, over his body. “No, I think you prefer trash like me, don’t you?” I make my way up, knees on either side of his arms, dick wagging around in his face. “I think you like getting dirty with the rats and then washing yourself clean when you’re done. Isn’t that right?”
— Mafia romance
— mobster/poor little rich kid
— hookup-to-lovers
— kidnapping
— marriage of convenience
— insta-love
— hurt/comfort
— steamy
Was this predictable? Yes. Did I give a damn? Nuh-uh. Why? Cause that shit was entertaining! Yeah it really played hard into the dysfunctional poor little rich boy falling for a thuggish mobster trope, but I just didn’t care. Don’t expect this to tax your brain cells, but it’s fun nonetheless.
Finch, the son of a powerful and rich Boston kingpin, and Luca, a foot soldier rising in the New York mob, have an unforgettable one night stand, a night where Finch also ends up saving Luca’s life when he’s attacked by a rival crew. Finch falls hard for Luca that night and knows that he’s the man for him forever, but Luca is young and ambitious and has no place in his life for a relationship. Yet Finch leaves an impression on Luca that he can never forget.
Finch and Luca unexpectedly cross paths five years later when Luca is ordered to kidnap and murder Howard Fincher Donovan III—not knowing that this is the same “Finch” who continues to haunt his memories. Luca can’t bring himself to kill Finch and is ordered by his Don to marry him as punishment and as a means of gaining leverage on Finch’s father. But lots of people still want Finch dead and before long Luca realizes that he’s no longer protecting Finch out of a sense of obligation, but because he loves him. Plus bonus points, they have lots and lots of steamy sex.
July 24, 2022
DNF at 44%
Main issues: a lot of internal monologue, and Luca's hot and cold act is really dragging on me. I liked the idea, but I “paused” this for over a year and never came back so….nah.
Main issues: a lot of internal monologue, and Luca's hot and cold act is really dragging on me. I liked the idea, but I “paused” this for over a year and never came back so….nah.
November 21, 2023
Audio - 5 + Stars
Story - 4 Stars
Story - 4 Stars
January 9, 2021
This is the sort of Book you either like or Dnf. As you can tell by my rating I enjoyed it.
It started off a bit "out there" but I stuck to it and it got infinitely better as it went along, and ended brilliantly. Lucas was a bit annoying but Finch had my heart (after I got used to him lol) and together they were great.
There is quite a lot of heat in this so consider yourself duly notified. It didn't take away from the story so I really didn't mind.
I will certainly be reading the subsequent books in the series.
It started off a bit "out there" but I stuck to it and it got infinitely better as it went along, and ended brilliantly. Lucas was a bit annoying but Finch had my heart (after I got used to him lol) and together they were great.
There is quite a lot of heat in this so consider yourself duly notified. It didn't take away from the story so I really didn't mind.
I will certainly be reading the subsequent books in the series.
April 5, 2022
What can I say about this book that hasn’t been said before? I really loved it and I adored Finch so so much!!! Medium angst, mafia romance with 2 interesting characters (Finch more than Luca) and an engaging plot. Very good!
September 10, 2022
DNF @ 10%.
I can't even with this. This is just ridiculous.
I can't even with this. This is just ridiculous.
April 14, 2025
Entretenido, divertido, emocionante
Finch está acostumbrado a unas vida de excesos, alcohol, drogas, sexo, todos los días todo el día, solo para olvidar su soledad. Pero un día conoce a un hombre en un bar, y siente la conexión, pero después de una noche desaparece. No vuelve a saber nada de el hasta años después, cuando se encuentra dentro de la lucha entre grupos de la mafia italiana e irlandesa. En ese momento su vida vuelve a cambiar, pero será suficiente? Tendrá por con su felices para siempre?
Esta lectura resultó una sorpresa agradable, fue entretenido, divertido, lleno de acción e intriga. Me gustó mucho el personaje de Finch, pero también me gustó mucho los secundarios. La trama es sencilla, pero bien manejada, y con un final que resultó casi predecible, pero interesante.
Estoy segura de leer el próximo de la serie, y ver cómo nuestros perros se apoderan de la cuidad de New York.
Finch está acostumbrado a unas vida de excesos, alcohol, drogas, sexo, todos los días todo el día, solo para olvidar su soledad. Pero un día conoce a un hombre en un bar, y siente la conexión, pero después de una noche desaparece. No vuelve a saber nada de el hasta años después, cuando se encuentra dentro de la lucha entre grupos de la mafia italiana e irlandesa. En ese momento su vida vuelve a cambiar, pero será suficiente? Tendrá por con su felices para siempre?
Esta lectura resultó una sorpresa agradable, fue entretenido, divertido, lleno de acción e intriga. Me gustó mucho el personaje de Finch, pero también me gustó mucho los secundarios. La trama es sencilla, pero bien manejada, y con un final que resultó casi predecible, pero interesante.
Estoy segura de leer el próximo de la serie, y ver cómo nuestros perros se apoderan de la cuidad de New York.
January 7, 2024
Finch laying down the law to his mobster husband is my favorite genre of Finch.
"It's our honeymoon, and we will spend time together and we WILL get to know each other."
"That fucking husband of mine sneaks into my bed at night like I'm his boy on the side instead of his ball and chain."
💀💀💀💀💀FINCH
"You'll be home for dinner every night. If you want to go committing crimes every night that's fine but you'll be here for a sit down meal every night."
You tell him, Finch. That awful wedded husband of yours has no manners! Mobster husbands these days, honestly!
And yet, somehow, after all his horrid words, what finally gets me is this.
"Tell Finch that he knows me."
Awwwwwww. My emotionally constipated Luca😫😫😫
It appears that this year, I am continuing to be as easily scammed by men as I have been in the past.
Overall a good-ish book. Good enough that I'll definitely read the next one.
Michael Ferraiuolo is amazing in this BTW.
"It's our honeymoon, and we will spend time together and we WILL get to know each other."
"That fucking husband of mine sneaks into my bed at night like I'm his boy on the side instead of his ball and chain."
💀💀💀💀💀FINCH
"You'll be home for dinner every night. If you want to go committing crimes every night that's fine but you'll be here for a sit down meal every night."
You tell him, Finch. That awful wedded husband of yours has no manners! Mobster husbands these days, honestly!
And yet, somehow, after all his horrid words, what finally gets me is this.
"Tell Finch that he knows me."
Awwwwwww. My emotionally constipated Luca😫😫😫
It appears that this year, I am continuing to be as easily scammed by men as I have been in the past.
Overall a good-ish book. Good enough that I'll definitely read the next one.
Michael Ferraiuolo is amazing in this BTW.
May 25, 2021
2.5 stars rounded up because there were too many things I didn't like that happened in the first 50% and then we got to ride on the miscommunication express for a few chapters...but at the same time, I couldn't put it down. It's sometimes ridiculous and over the top, but it's got some damn sexy times, and, like a good soap opera, it sucked me in even when it was making me roll my eyes...hard.
But it's honestly not all that bad. Truly. It's got a good pace, and I was drawn into the plot even if I could see the twist coming from a mile away, and I was truly hopeful for a happy ending for Fitch and Luca. They get their HFN but it's definitely a setup towards a series. All in all, it was ultimately a fun escapism read with too many loose threads for me to rate higher.
✌️
But it's honestly not all that bad. Truly. It's got a good pace, and I was drawn into the plot even if I could see the twist coming from a mile away, and I was truly hopeful for a happy ending for Fitch and Luca. They get their HFN but it's definitely a setup towards a series. All in all, it was ultimately a fun escapism read with too many loose threads for me to rate higher.
I wonder how time has changed him. I read once that the cells in our body gets totally replaced every seven years, so he’s still got a few that I’ve touched before. Now I’ll get to know all those new cells, too.
✌️
April 11, 2020
I'm on a Leighton Greene marathon since read the Rough Love series, and I just NEED to read everything by her - so when is the perfect time to release a new book, now why yes.
I LOVE the writing style, the way the characters communicate, how they interact with each other and how they fell in love.
Finch and Luca were two amazing and hot headed character. Loved their first meeting, and loved the second much better. The Mob life and the whole wedding was so cool. But the best?! That Luca wasn't the rich badass sob, no, he was poor, and just wanted to be the best and be rich and to be able to give Finch everything he needs.
Finch was so awesome, I loved him so much, his character was really good. His mouth, his heart and his sould - beautiful. And loved how he loved Luca and was the happiest that he got to married to the love of his life. Their love story was so unique and so awesome. And it was so good to see them step closer and closer to the life they wanted. How cool it was how Finch made the best self of Luca. Bought him suits and clothes, taught him wich silverware wich, how to chose wine to the dinner, and how to be the badass mob he wants to be. Finch wanted to give New York to Luca. And Luca wanted to give Finch everything. They were perfect for each other and I just swooned every time while reading. So so good.
And the cover! Oh god, the cover! It is SO perfect for the story! I love when the cover is this amazing and perfect match for the story.
This story was amazing and I loved every page of it. And I need more Luca and Finch♥
I LOVE the writing style, the way the characters communicate, how they interact with each other and how they fell in love.
Finch and Luca were two amazing and hot headed character. Loved their first meeting, and loved the second much better. The Mob life and the whole wedding was so cool. But the best?! That Luca wasn't the rich badass sob, no, he was poor, and just wanted to be the best and be rich and to be able to give Finch everything he needs.
Finch was so awesome, I loved him so much, his character was really good. His mouth, his heart and his sould - beautiful. And loved how he loved Luca and was the happiest that he got to married to the love of his life. Their love story was so unique and so awesome. And it was so good to see them step closer and closer to the life they wanted. How cool it was how Finch made the best self of Luca. Bought him suits and clothes, taught him wich silverware wich, how to chose wine to the dinner, and how to be the badass mob he wants to be. Finch wanted to give New York to Luca. And Luca wanted to give Finch everything. They were perfect for each other and I just swooned every time while reading. So so good.
And the cover! Oh god, the cover! It is SO perfect for the story! I love when the cover is this amazing and perfect match for the story.
This story was amazing and I loved every page of it. And I need more Luca and Finch♥
September 13, 2021
perfect mafia romance
Luca and Finch have smoking hot chemistry from the day they met. Their meet cute is quite bloody.
Fast forward 5 years…Luca covers his scars well. Finch notices. Their love is strong and a bit violent. It works. The story is filled with betrayal and intrigue. I really loved the Family dynamic.
I’m excited we get another book with them.
Highly recommend this book!
Luca and Finch have smoking hot chemistry from the day they met. Their meet cute is quite bloody.
Fast forward 5 years…Luca covers his scars well. Finch notices. Their love is strong and a bit violent. It works. The story is filled with betrayal and intrigue. I really loved the Family dynamic.
I’m excited we get another book with them.
Highly recommend this book!
September 6, 2023
DNF ~39%
Disappointing. The characters were one-dimensional OTT caricatures lacking any kind of depth or nuance. The concept of the fake marriage was pretty ridiculous in context, as was Luca's reasons for treating his new husband like trash--it was so forced in an attempt to be edgy. This whole thing had me rolling my eyes, especially because I know this author is capable or writing characters with complexity and darkness that feels gritty and real instead of whatever the fuck this was.
Disappointing. The characters were one-dimensional OTT caricatures lacking any kind of depth or nuance. The concept of the fake marriage was pretty ridiculous in context, as was Luca's reasons for treating his new husband like trash--it was so forced in an attempt to be edgy. This whole thing had me rolling my eyes, especially because I know this author is capable or writing characters with complexity and darkness that feels gritty and real instead of whatever the fuck this was.
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