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The Brasi Family: A Dark Mafia Romance

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“If she ever looks me in my eyes, her soul belongs to me—and that’s my weakest asset.”

From Jatoria C., the author of The Devil Wears Baccarat series, comes a dark urban romance that blurs the line between love and obsession.

In Aboydo Cape, the name Brasi is more than a legacy—it’s a warning.
Navy Brasi, a detective who operates outside the law, commands both respect and fear. With mafia blood running deep in his veins and underworld connections that could silence anyone, Navy’s power is as absolute as it is dangerous.
Love was never part of his plan. But Marli Thompson changes that.

She’s defiant, untouchable, and strong enough to hate the Brasi family with everything in her.
She’d rather burn them to the ground than fall into their trap.
But Navy doesn’t take no for an answer. His obsession with Marli goes beyond desire—it’s a compulsion, a dangerous pull he can’t ignore.
And he’ll do anything—manipulate, corner, control—to keep her close.

Marli knows what the Brasi family is capable of.
She’s spent her life building walls against them, protecting herself from the very kind of power Navy wields.
But love doesn’t bow to reason.
As Navy closes in, Marli finds herself caught in a dangerous game of power, secrets, and psychological warfare.
His every move chips away at her defenses, his every glance sends her spiraling.
And when dark truths—like her brother’s blood on Brasi hands—surface, their fragile bond fractures under the weight of betrayal.

In The Brasi Family, love is a savage trap, where devotion and destruction walk hand in hand.
This is a story for readers who crave gritty romance, possessive alpha males, and heroines who fight for their freedom—even when the odds are against them.
If you’re ready for a love story that bites back, welcome to the family.

198 pages, Paperback

Published April 6, 2025

556 people are currently reading
305 people want to read

About the author

Jatoria C.

20 books193 followers

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5 stars
634 (59%)
4 stars
272 (25%)
3 stars
132 (12%)
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25 (2%)
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7 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
Profile Image for Toya  Davis-Stokley.
2,581 reviews105 followers
April 4, 2025
This one started off a bit slow, but when it picked up. 🤯 Navy and Marli were at each other's necks, and it was amusing to witness. However, when we got the first body, I was ready to help solve the crimes as I thought I knew who was behind it all. Well..... nope wrong on all accounts. 🤣 I was surprised actually at who was behind it all, but I probably shouldn't have been.

Navy went from charming to a raving psychopath in zero point five seconds. Sir, what is really wrong with you? 👀 Marli was his no matter what anyone had to say, including Marli. She better get with the program or else. The back and forth with Marli trying to stand her ground was good for a hot minute, until Navy got the upper hand. I wish we had more of a background story on Navy, to understand him better. Did something happen that made him this way? Are the parents responsible? Cause somebody did something! 🤷🏿‍♀️

Did Navy really love Marli, or did his obsession with her make him believe he did? Poor Marli broke in that basement and hadn't been right since. How the hell do you love a man after all that sis? 😤 It was hard for me to believe that there was love between these two with all the chaos happening. Then that wack ass attempt Marli? Really? 👀 Them crazies deserve each other, cause don't nobody else want to deal with that ish! 🤯 The entire Brasi family is insane, but why? Will I read the next book? Uhhh... yes. Yes, I will. 🤣🤣

Profile Image for perfectlyamberb.
653 reviews28 followers
March 31, 2025
Is it love?

This book was a wild ride. Navy and Marli had an interesting dynamic, and I was interested to see how things would jump off between them, and adding in the killer storyline had me really interested. Jatoria's writing always hooks me, especially when she's writing her unhinged MMCs. Now where this book lost me is the romance between Navy and Marli; I couldn't quite believe it. At no point did Navy do anything for Marli to love him; in fact, she should have continued running from him. Honestly, Navy never really seemed to care about Marli’s feelings at any point, and because of that I just couldn't believe the romance between them.
Profile Image for ↬ Ⓛ.
386 reviews712 followers
April 1, 2025
Disappointed is an understatement 🙂‍↕️💔
Profile Image for Melly.
120 reviews5 followers
April 1, 2025
If you looking for cute & fluffy romance.. this ain’t that. This is for my true DARK ROMANCE girlies who get it!

Some people get it and others don’t and that’s ok! I just had to give a disclaimer!

Read the trigger warnings!

Navy & Marli journey was very unconventional. Enemies to lovers! Stockholm Syndrome for sure, but a time was had! And I enjoyed this story so much. I was happy to see Mason, Tylee & MJ make an appearance from time to time & I can’t wait to see what the other Brasi family members have going on
Profile Image for Neek Brown.
98 reviews14 followers
April 14, 2025
The Brasi Family" by Jatoria C. is an exhilarating thrill ride that grips you from the very first page and doesn’t let go. With its powerful character dynamics and unpredictable plot, this book delivers a compelling story that will leave readers eagerly turning the pages.

Central to the story is Marli, a formidable police detective whose tough exterior conceals a heart burdened by a difficult past. Despite her personal struggles, Marli remains steadfast and committed, embodying the strength and resilience of someone who truly shows up for her community. She is the epitome of a strong woman who refuses to take any nonsense, until her path crosses with Navy Brasi.

Navy, an enigmatic and unhinged figure, belongs to one of the most prestigious families in Aboydo Cape. His unpredictable nature and magnetic presence create an irresistible pull that captivates Marli, weaving a complex and enthralling narrative. Their interactions are charged with tension and chemistry, making for a compelling read.

The story is packed with unexpected twists and turns that will have you exclaiming, "WTF!" The suspense is masterfully crafted, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the intricate web of family secrets and personal vendettas.

"The Brasi Family" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a tale of intrigue and intense emotional stakes. Just be sure to check your triggers as you delve into this captivating world. I highly recommend this story for its profound character development and thrilling plot. Jatoria C. has truly created a masterpiece that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jaleesa.
410 reviews63 followers
May 28, 2025
This was a time…..

You know this book gave me whiplash. I was vibing with Navy and Marli, the tension was building perfect and then PLOT TWIST. This is definitely for my dark romance girlies. I had fun but I don’t want nothing to do with them Brasi’s…..they a little too crazy for me. Lol.
Profile Image for Crimson.
615 reviews4 followers
April 30, 2025
Loved it

Yes!!!!! Baby, Jatoria C don't miss miss when it comes to these unhinged men!!!!! This book had me in tears laughing. Y'all just read the damn book.
Profile Image for Kathryn.
629 reviews15 followers
August 6, 2025
OMG, I have no words. This was a crazy ride but I enjoyed it. This entire family is crazy so this series should be a fun ride.
Profile Image for NeiNey.ThaReadinDoula.
293 reviews11 followers
April 18, 2025
Dark Romance girlies, pull up real quick!

First off—check your triggers, for real. This one ain’t for the faint. You been warned.

Now let’s get into it. Jatoria? Sis did not come to play. That pen game? Dedication on ten. Respectfully.

So boom—we back in Aboydo Cape and babyyyy, we diving deeper into Navy “Nepo” Brasi and Marli “Scallywag” Thompson. Yup, that Marli…the same one that had Navy squirming when Mason dared to bring her name up at his wedding to Tylee. That part had me weak!

But listen, Aboydo Cape? It’s in shambles behind a whole chain of wild events that had me sittin’ there stuck like…nah, what did I just read? And right in the middle of the chaos? Navy and Marli get pulled into each other’s orbit in a way that neither of ‘em was ready for.

Navy came through with that big energy—made it real clear who was running the town and who was clockin’ his attention. Marli included. That man had me nervous, no lie. But let’s talk about Marli tho—she don’t scare easy. She’s bold, unbothered, and not afraid to talk her ish. She got that mouth, that attitude, and that presence. She’s solid. And the way her and Navy clashed? Whew. The tension, the banter, the chemistry—it was all too much in the best way.

Even back when they were younger, the vibe between them was chaotic as hell. And Navy? He stayed checking her whenever she thought she had the upper hand. Letting her know quick, he’s Chief for a reason. Real boss energy.

And don’t get me started on The Brasi Family. Loyalty runs deep with them. Like, Navy’s sister? I was side-eyeing shorty like—ma’am, are you okay?? She don’t play either.

Oh, and I loved the little cameos and character nods from Jatoria’s other stories—she really wove it all in smooth.

This right here? This is how dark romance is supposed to feel. Spicy, gritty, messy in the best way. I was all in. And that ending?? Jaw. On. Floor.

Solid 4.5 stars. Certified spicy. Can’t wait to see what’s next.
Profile Image for Lexi .
107 reviews3 followers
April 1, 2025
This quick read was a wild ride! Navy is insane—a billionaire police chief and a full-blown psychopath 🫣But watching him fall for his best detective, Marli? Absolutely chaotic in the best way. But also SIR are you ok lololol

Honestly, the entire Brasi family is nuts, and I loved every second of it. And let’s talk about the spice—because whew! Navy is a freaking freak! This book was funny, shocking, and hot as hell. I’m definitely reading more from Jatorica!
Profile Image for Selena Nicole.
246 reviews12 followers
May 7, 2025
The Brasi Family was not what I had expected. It's dark yes but the romance was non-existent in my opinion.
Profile Image for JazzReads .
1,089 reviews32 followers
April 1, 2025
I really enjoyed Navy and Marli story because it was dark and unhinged. I love the little enemies to lovers aspect in the book. I am really looking forward to the other siblings stories because Navy was unhinged but I feel like his siblings are on a different level. I really enjoy the introduction to the town and the different connections the family has to the town. Overall good book.
Profile Image for tanessia ford.
4,010 reviews
April 2, 2025
let’s go

Bruhhh I so wasn’t prepared for the fu**kery that ensued!All I have to say is buckle up buttercup! Because you are in for one hell of a ride. If you thought Mason was hell you haven’t seen nothing yet with the Brasi family! These siblings are about to shake things up! And I’m so ready for it! Let’s go!
Profile Image for LadyLovesToRead.
158 reviews4 followers
April 1, 2025
This book so so many turns it kept my head spinning...
Just when you think you know what's happening you definitely dont...
10/10 no note would definitely recommend
Profile Image for Arnell  Peterson .
1,030 reviews35 followers
April 1, 2025
Man this girl can write some dark romance stories. I was so invested from the first page….lawd that Navy was truly unhinged.
Profile Image for Monique.
473 reviews23 followers
April 2, 2025
I won’t yuck anyone’s yum but this wasn’t it for me. Based on the synopsis of the book I thought I’d like the premise. But the story didn’t really play out that way, and it left me a little disappointed. I thought there would be more of a cat & mouse between the two main characters but nope, he just decided to be beyond unhinged. I wasn’t feeling their romance. He did absolutely nothing to earn her affection & they had zero chemistry as a couple IMO. I mean he was nuts so I get his “love” but it didn’t feel believable when she was all “I think I love him”. …i was looking for more.
4 reviews1 follower
April 10, 2025
terrible

Not only was the sentence structure of this book quite terrible and elementary, the plot made absolutely no sense. I am looking at the other comments and just wondering if we all read the same book.
45 reviews
April 10, 2025
Dnf 24%
Too many unnecessary words... just 47pages of unnecessary descriptions and think pieces
Profile Image for Charmy Reads.
445 reviews15 followers
May 1, 2025
What more needs to be said other than this is the crazy and unhinged bestie of Mason Neiman. I think he may be a little crazier than Mason. At least Mason didn't drive his lady to the point of insanity. Navy wanted Marli and made sure the he got her by any means.

This is definitely one that I say check your TW before you read and buckle up for an interesting ride.
Profile Image for KierstenReads.
84 reviews4 followers
May 24, 2025
I’m new to this author but there seems to be a strong demonic theme that’s just thrown in the two series I’ve read and super randomly. I don’t know how to feel about it….

Was it love? I don’t think so.
Was it entertaining? At times.
Recommend? How bored are you?
Profile Image for Latifah.
69 reviews
April 6, 2025
——Here’s my review with spoilers——

I was expecting great things when I started reading this book & then it just switched up out of nowhere & a lot started happening too quick lool. It felt like i read 2/3 different books in one😭😩 Each act of the book felt like a different theme it threw me off a little. We went from the police & fighting crimes to being forced to marry then locked up and essentially giving into the situation. Overall the book really has a lot of potential if there was just more of a build up in certain areas & not a switch up of the theme of the book throughout too much. It’s actually written well I just wish it gave me more development in certain parts.

So let me explain my reasons..

Navy and Marly went from hating eachother to him giving her innuendos and flirting, eating with her family etc out of nowhere. I feel like there was no build to it considering they’ve hated eachother for years, not a single inclination that they even found each other attractive then all of a sudden he’s telling her to dream of him?? Lool, idk maybe i just like a good lead up / chase. Also the book bio said her brothers blood was on he/his family’s hands so i assumed there would be something on that but idk if i missed / skimmed that part cos i didnt get any of that at all?? Besides the scene at the beginning at his funeral we didnt get anything else on it loll. So idk maybe i missed something there..

I enjoy a good obsessive, rough around the edges/dominating man but Navy just came off too toxic (& not in a ‘i love you so much i would do anything for you’ cute type of way, more like an obsessed psycho so it just wasn’t cute at times 🤣. Its like he forced (brainwashed) her to fall in love with him whereas, I prefer for FMCs to get to that point naturally & have the MMC at least work/earn her love. He didn’t deserve it in my opinion; I suppose it was just different reading it happen in this way for the first time. In my opinion the whole locking her in a cell part was unnecessary lool, im still not 100% convinced she fell in love with him out of her own volition or if it was cos of the trauma and brainwashing from the cell💀

His whole family is absolutely insane🤣 Even his friends. Firstly how can MJ be 10yrs old but talks like he’s 16-18????? I didn’t understand that lmaoo. & his sister Sage is probably the craziest female side character ive ever read, when she drank the blood from Leon’s heart I said “okay was that necessary?!” 😭😭We moved to thriller at that point😂

Tbh that scene along with the scene finding out Navy was the serial killer threatening Marly were probs the two most intriguing parts of the book for me😬😅 Mainly due to the shock factor, I thought Steve was behind it all the whole time🤣 But that part also threw me off because after everything the public never questioned who the killer was & it was like they all just forgot about it - considering no1 but her and his family knew Navy was behind it, I’d have thought it would have continued being an investigation or something but its like that plot point was just dropped (maybe i missed something again🤣).
Marly’s parents irritated me especially at the end when it was clear she was trying to escape a psycho but they didn’t care about her at allllll💀

I’m giving this a 2/5😩
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Mz_MELLO YELLO from the BAY.
442 reviews9 followers
March 31, 2025
Unhinged like NO Other!!!

There’s a new definition of unhinged and it’s in this read here. Our girl did it again and when I say this man and family of like no other, I mean just that! This was a different level of dark -lol

So check it, something is off about the entire town of Aboydo Cape 🤣 and The Brasi Family! But to find out the entire town is ran and owned by the Brasi Family -🫣😳!

First let me say how I enjoy getting update on Mason & Tylee! Ok, now that that’s over, let talk about ole Navy Brasi! This man here is worst than Mason -🤣 but so serious! Sad part is he can get away with anything that he does. Not only is this man Chief of police but he OWNS IT! I’m floored!! Who would ever love man as unhinged as Navy, I didn’t think anyone cause it’s this man way out no way until Marli comes back home and join the force after working with the FBI! Now in all honesty I thought he disliked this woman because he was calling her “scallywag” and I hollered every time he called her that! But to my surprise this man still loved her down! The things he did and would contour to do until she married him left me speechless! Not just that, two unhinged men are best friends - him and Mason! I promise the world not ready for that 🫣!

Marli, not knowing what she was signing up for when she moved back home, was in for a ride of her life. Oh but my girl got a rude awakening and a ring -🤣! After following leads for some crimes, the truth is slapped in her face with an ultimatum! Babe when I say that ultimatum was like no other, I mean just that. The things my girl went through would’ve had me tap out probably sooner than she did but she wasn’t no punk for a minute! She stuck it out and stuck to her gins until she couldn’t no more - lol! Soundproof jail cell in the basement had me FLOORED!! When she moved back home, she definitely didn’t think she was be married before actually really dating! Question, how you try to escape and can’t!

The overall family - Lets discuss! The entire family has that Adam’s Family vibe 🤣🤣! Sage who’s the mayor, the only sister is more unhinged than Navy and the order brothers! Then there’s the other brothers - Quill (neurosurgeon), Rise (Pilot & own the airport), Wise (bank owner) & Cloud (criminal attorney). So when I say you can’t do nothing in Aboydo Cape, you can’t! But one thing for sure and 2 for certain, they have each other’s backs like no other! They assist each other with whatever needs to happen and only family can calm each other down! When I say they All help each other, that includes the parents! Listen this read let me speechless and on the edge of my seat eager to know what’s about to happen! That happily ever after comes in the most toxic and unhinged way but I love it! Now I’m ready to see what Quill got going on as the new he received was one he did not want to hear 🤣🤣!
192 reviews2 followers
April 8, 2025
Decent Read

This book started out great. In the small town of Aboydo Cape. Detective's Steve and Marli was hunting who they thought was a unknown a serial killer. Marli life seems to be in danger because of notes left behind after each death targeting her for cases she worked on in the past. I thought Navy Brasi was just a no nonsense, arrogant, introvert who was the Police Captain but he also owned the Police Department. About 46% in the book is when it went down hill from me and became predictable. The Brasi Family don't understand the word "NO". The have the mentality that they can do what they want to whomever they choose because they own the Police Department, Hospital, Airport, Law Offices, etc. Any and everybody supposed to bend at their will. Steve and Marli learned this the hard way. Hell I understand why the first two victims were killed. After learning about what they were doing to kids. It's what happened to Steve that had me side eyeing Navy. Steve was grieving. His outburst towards Marli was natural. Although I realized he was in his feelings too because Marli wouldn't give him the attention he wanted when he was flirting with her. Marli father also got on my nerve. I know the man was a Pastor but it was hard to believe he never learned to turn off that title when it came to his daughter. It's like he was too busy judging her. I'm also wondering why he never found out what was going on in his Church with one of his so called trusted Deacons. Navy obsession wasn't the problem. It's his actions to get Marli attention and force her to marry that was the problem. I actually was hoping that Marli stayed true to herself and found a way out but of course it was predictable that she ends up falling in love with Navy. Sage weird ass seems like her admiration for Navy goes beyond him being her brother. I would've liked at least a backstory on how Navy, Quill, Rise, Cloud, and Sage was actually adopted and was it legal. What happened to their parents and how did they end up with Mr and Mrs. Brasi because something isn't right. The family seems more like a cult. I am looking forward to Quill story. He seems like he's a mess.
Profile Image for Rise.
1,508 reviews
May 15, 2025
The Brasi Family by Jatoria C. is a dark, emotionally charged exploration of trauma, obsession, and the blurred lines between love and control. Set within the urban fiction genre, the story introduces Navy—a deeply damaged and unforgettable character whose behavior is shaped by a profoundly toxic upbringing.

The novel delves into the disturbing dynamics of Navy’s adoptive family, revealing how a childhood of manipulation and cruelty created a fractured man. His relationship with Marli is intense and unsettling, marked by psychological control, forced marriage, and emotional captivity. And yet, the author masterfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers emotionally engaged, even as the subject matter grows darker and more complex.

Jatoria C. doesn’t romanticize the violence or trauma but rather presents it as part of the characters’ deeply rooted psychological scars. The story ultimately moves toward what the author frames as a “happy ever after,” challenging the reader to consider what healing looks like for people shaped by pain.

This book is recommended for readers who appreciate dark romance, intense psychological narratives, and morally complex characters. However, please be advised that The Brasi Family contains mature and potentially triggering content, including themes of forced marriage, psychological manipulation, and confinement.

A powerful and unsettling read that lingers long after the final page.

Profile Image for Evie.
131 reviews2 followers
May 27, 2025
The Brasi Family For the Win!

Navy Brasi blows Mason Neiman out of the water. I thought Mason set the bar for wild, but Navy vaults right over it. From the moment he shows up, you’ll wonder how one guy can stir up this much chaos. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, the twist lands and you realize Navy’s ten steps ahead of his best friend in the unhinged department.

I loved spotting familiar faces from books one and two. Navy and Mason’s bond adds extra spark, and the glimpses of Navy’s siblings make me crave more. I need a full-on parents’ story to see what kind of madness bred this crew. The plot moves with sly tricks, and the characters bring the heat.

At its heart, the story follows Navy and Marli as they stumble into love. Marli steals every scene with her razor-sharp thoughts and laugh-out-loud moments. She counterbalances Navy’s chaos perfectly. You’ll never guess how it all ends—one minute you think you have it figured out, the next you’re the one on the floor, stunned.

If you picked up the first two Mason Neiman novels, you owe it to yourself to continue with the Brasi saga. This installment runs short but hits so many sweet spots that you’ll wish it went on forever. Grab it and get ready for a ride you won’t see coming.









Profile Image for MOmo.
183 reviews4 followers
October 24, 2025
this book got me hollering, laughing and side eyeing some characters

Oh yessss, jatoria c did her thing with this book. I thought I had met unhinged until I met the mmc in this book, lmaooo. Infact, the whole brasi family are in a different frequency. This book focuses on marli and navy. Navy is one of the adopted kids in the brasi family and if quite the head of the police department who has secretly fancied his worker, marli. Marli is the daughter of a Pentecostal father who has returned to her hometown that’s practically owned by the brasi family. As we read and explore these characters stories, from the serial killings happening to the threats that marli is facing, we try connecting the dots and figuring out what exactly is going on in this community and what role the brasi family has in it. Now imagine all of this plot without fitting smut and spice? Definitely not a jatoria c joint because whatttt, she gave us passion, obsessed mmc and also smutty smutty vibes. I loveddd the characters and marli and her stubborn self. Also loved navy and his obsessive self. Fun read!
Profile Image for Natea.
59 reviews
April 8, 2025
I liked Marli and Navy as individuals but I aint like them together! Omg. Like I loved how spunky and strong she was in the beginning and their like "enemies to lovers" vibes at first. But the way he had to like really break her down for her to comply. Like I get a little break but it was like really breaking down lol. So her spunk was a little gone after that. His point wasn't to break her but to see how she would mentally handle herself, so I get that - I just missed her spunk.

I loved Mason's cameo because I literally love him. I liked his friendship with Navy. I think they complimented each other very well.

Marli and Navy ended up being cute together- because although im conflicted about her tiny loss of spunk, the life they built together was beautiful. He didnt have to wear his tough exterior with her and neither did she. Okay, as Im typing this maybe they both softened for each other? This is why book discussions are important LMAO.

Also, Im looking forward to the sisters story - she is literally insane.
Profile Image for TACORA MCCLUNEY.
2,531 reviews11 followers
April 1, 2025
I fkn loved it!!!!

If you looking for a five star read then look no further because baby this is it. If you looking for a five star read with that deranged BDE then baby look no further because this is it. And if you looking for a five star read with that deranged BDE where the nicca gonna gonna get who he wants by any means necessary (even locking her in a homemade jail) then BABY THIS IS IT!!!!!! I see why Mason and Navy are best friends. Crazy recognize crazy. Navy got Mason beat tho. Well ion know which is worse, root working on solitary confinement. What I do know is Navy and his whole family are certifiable. If you like dark romance then you're gonna want to see what Jatoria C. bringing. I can't wait to see what Quills crazy looks like.💘💘
Profile Image for Tyler Dent.
193 reviews
April 3, 2025
i knew from mason book that nay and his family were a little off but damn navy was crazy asf. whole time i thought it was steve weird ass since he had a little anger issues showing when marli would reject him but plot twist it wasn’t him. marli pussy got navy psychotic ass tweaking out and put his ass to sleep. leon the ex boyfriend definitely was a stalker how you cheat on her and have a baby on her and still expect her to wanna be with you, showing up at places unannounced to see her because she cut off all contact with you is crazy and then trying to help her leave after navy already beat you up like yea you deserved to get got.. the friendship between navy and mason is funny asf and you can really see why they friends, i love how they be spoiling each other kids.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews

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