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Savage Kinge
As the daughter of a judge, everything was black and white—but then I met HIM.
I was never meant to be around men like him—men my father liked to put away.
One night, I was a museum curator with a quiet life.
The next, I was bound and beaten by the monsters my father locked up.
Then he came for me.
Antonio DeLuna isn’t a hero. He’s a ruthless mafia capo with blood on his hands and vengeance in his heart. He didn’t save me out of mercy. He did it to use me.
Now I’m trapped in his fortress, tangled in his world.
He says it’s to keep me safe.
He says I belong to him now.
But the more he touches me, the more I forget the rules I used to live by.
Beneath the danger and darkness is a man who burns just for me.
And I’m starting to burn back.
I should be running.
Instead, I’m falling.
*Savage King is a dark, explosive mafia romance with forced proximity, twisted loyalties, fated obsession, abduction, and a dangerously possessive antihero.
I was never meant to be around men like him—men my father liked to put away.
One night, I was a museum curator with a quiet life.
The next, I was bound and beaten by the monsters my father locked up.
Then he came for me.
Antonio DeLuna isn’t a hero. He’s a ruthless mafia capo with blood on his hands and vengeance in his heart. He didn’t save me out of mercy. He did it to use me.
Now I’m trapped in his fortress, tangled in his world.
He says it’s to keep me safe.
He says I belong to him now.
But the more he touches me, the more I forget the rules I used to live by.
Beneath the danger and darkness is a man who burns just for me.
And I’m starting to burn back.
I should be running.
Instead, I’m falling.
*Savage King is a dark, explosive mafia romance with forced proximity, twisted loyalties, fated obsession, abduction, and a dangerously possessive antihero.
574 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 19, 2025
324 people are currently reading
328 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
August 20, 2025
Title: Savage King (Savage Kings of New York: Book 1)
Author: Bella Ray
Review: I received an (ARC) Advanced Reader Copy for MY honest review for free.
This was my first book by Bella Ray and I was hooked from the get go, it was an absolute banger!
Scarlet is the perfect daughter of a high end Judge, the perfect friend with the perfect career. After a girls night out she is kidnapped and tortured by a ruthless mafia leader as an incentive to sway her father’s ruling in a criminal trial. Her father goes to the only man that can help save her, Antonio DeLuna.
Antonio accepts but when he saves Scarlet and comes face to face his entire world will change. His once blackened heart is awakened and he falls madly in love with her, does he deserve something so precious…
This book had it all, the action, suspense, sexual chemistry and all the sexy hot mafia Dons a girl could want. I loved all the characters although I will say, I was a little worried at first with all the name dropping. I was confused as hell as to who all these people were but it all made sense in the end. I really liked the way Scarlet and Antonio’s relationship played out throughout the book and the possible interconnected characters. The writing style and POV’s were fantastic, so much so that I went searching this author for other books but came up empty handed. I need the next mafia book in this series asap!!
My only feedback would be to make things a bit more spicier as I’m used to a more darker mafia romance and also not to drop so many names as it was hard to keep up on who all these people were. Especially the 5 mafia families, I had to keep going back to the family tree to remember who was whose son ect.
Stars: 4.5/5 ★
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️
Recommend: Yes
Author: Bella Ray
Review: I received an (ARC) Advanced Reader Copy for MY honest review for free.
This was my first book by Bella Ray and I was hooked from the get go, it was an absolute banger!
Scarlet is the perfect daughter of a high end Judge, the perfect friend with the perfect career. After a girls night out she is kidnapped and tortured by a ruthless mafia leader as an incentive to sway her father’s ruling in a criminal trial. Her father goes to the only man that can help save her, Antonio DeLuna.
Antonio accepts but when he saves Scarlet and comes face to face his entire world will change. His once blackened heart is awakened and he falls madly in love with her, does he deserve something so precious…
This book had it all, the action, suspense, sexual chemistry and all the sexy hot mafia Dons a girl could want. I loved all the characters although I will say, I was a little worried at first with all the name dropping. I was confused as hell as to who all these people were but it all made sense in the end. I really liked the way Scarlet and Antonio’s relationship played out throughout the book and the possible interconnected characters. The writing style and POV’s were fantastic, so much so that I went searching this author for other books but came up empty handed. I need the next mafia book in this series asap!!
My only feedback would be to make things a bit more spicier as I’m used to a more darker mafia romance and also not to drop so many names as it was hard to keep up on who all these people were. Especially the 5 mafia families, I had to keep going back to the family tree to remember who was whose son ect.
Stars: 4.5/5 ★
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️
Recommend: Yes
November 7, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ No OWD drama
Might not be for everyone because I lost track of days but when she goes to the doctor she announces she hasn’t been on her birth control for 3 weeks (when she gets kidnapped) and she’s 2 weeks pregnant so they’re married in love and pregnant all in 3 weeks and the books 500+ pages lol I didn’t hate it though and I’ve read crazier
Might not be for everyone because I lost track of days but when she goes to the doctor she announces she hasn’t been on her birth control for 3 weeks (when she gets kidnapped) and she’s 2 weeks pregnant so they’re married in love and pregnant all in 3 weeks and the books 500+ pages lol I didn’t hate it though and I’ve read crazier
June 26, 2025
5 “Passerotta” Stars!!
I absolutely loved this book!! Antonio was everything a capo should be. He was ruthless, cutthroat, and heartless. Except when it came to Scarlet. He fell fast and hard for her. Dare I say at first sight?! He would burn down the whole city to find her and dare someone to touch her, they won’t live to tell about it. I loved how gentle he was with her. But I really loved the banter they had. I’m not use to smiling and laughing in my mafia romances. The MMC is usually so serious they rarely smile or have a sense of humor. But Toni was sarcastic and even joked at times. I fell in love with him right along with Scarlet.
Now Scarlet our fierce and sweet FMC. She was tougher than she realized. She had to be to survive what her own mother put her through for years. She loved herself some Antonio 🥰. I swear every time she looked at that man she had heart eyes 😍 for him. She accepted the mafia lifestyle and all that it entailed. She was proud to stand by Antonio’s side. These two had unbelievable chemistry that jumped off the page.
I highly recommend reading Savage King. It gives you everything you love about mafia romances with a bonus of a little humor which I found quite enjoyable. I can’t wait for the next book!! I give it two thumbs up!!!
I absolutely loved this book!! Antonio was everything a capo should be. He was ruthless, cutthroat, and heartless. Except when it came to Scarlet. He fell fast and hard for her. Dare I say at first sight?! He would burn down the whole city to find her and dare someone to touch her, they won’t live to tell about it. I loved how gentle he was with her. But I really loved the banter they had. I’m not use to smiling and laughing in my mafia romances. The MMC is usually so serious they rarely smile or have a sense of humor. But Toni was sarcastic and even joked at times. I fell in love with him right along with Scarlet.
Now Scarlet our fierce and sweet FMC. She was tougher than she realized. She had to be to survive what her own mother put her through for years. She loved herself some Antonio 🥰. I swear every time she looked at that man she had heart eyes 😍 for him. She accepted the mafia lifestyle and all that it entailed. She was proud to stand by Antonio’s side. These two had unbelievable chemistry that jumped off the page.
I highly recommend reading Savage King. It gives you everything you love about mafia romances with a bonus of a little humor which I found quite enjoyable. I can’t wait for the next book!! I give it two thumbs up!!!
September 4, 2025
Mixed feelings - Mostly because I wanted more
More background. More answers. More.
I am greedy like that 🤷♀️
I did enjoy watching Antoino battle with himself. Not quite denying his desires, yet still not always acknowledging them
I wasn't too happy with Scarlett in the beginning. You knew what your dad does for a living, yet in your own selfish desire to live in denial, you made choices that put him and you in harm's way.
Don't get me wrong,g Scarlett gave as good as she got
I admit the outcome from this latest fubar was quite worth it
Despite his grumbly outer shell, he is all kinds of lickable
The chemistry and tension between these two literally bled off the pages
When it came to Scarlett, Antonio did have a bit of a marshmallow side - not always obvious, but it was in the little things he did and said
There are some darker moments, so if you have triggers, check the warnings
Lots of suspense and twists.
Some you see coming, some that will hit you right out of left field
Looking forward to book 2
More background. More answers. More.
I am greedy like that 🤷♀️
I did enjoy watching Antoino battle with himself. Not quite denying his desires, yet still not always acknowledging them
I wasn't too happy with Scarlett in the beginning. You knew what your dad does for a living, yet in your own selfish desire to live in denial, you made choices that put him and you in harm's way.
Don't get me wrong,g Scarlett gave as good as she got
I admit the outcome from this latest fubar was quite worth it
Despite his grumbly outer shell, he is all kinds of lickable
The chemistry and tension between these two literally bled off the pages
When it came to Scarlett, Antonio did have a bit of a marshmallow side - not always obvious, but it was in the little things he did and said
There are some darker moments, so if you have triggers, check the warnings
Lots of suspense and twists.
Some you see coming, some that will hit you right out of left field
Looking forward to book 2
July 24, 2025
Wow, this was my first book by Bella Ray, and let me tell you, I was absolutely hooked from the very first page! If you're looking for a thrilling, passionate, and action-packed mafia romance, you need to pick this up immediately.
Scarlet's living the "perfect" life until a girls' night out turns into a nightmare: she's brutally kidnapped and tortured by a ruthless mafia leader. He wants to strong-arm her father, a high-end judge, into swaying a criminal trial. Her only hope lies with Antonio DeLuna, the man her father turns to in desperation. Antonio takes the task, but when he comes face-to-face with Scarlet, his world shifts. His hardened heart awakens, and he falls fiercely in love. Does a man like him deserve something so pure?
Chemistry, Action & Unexpected POVs!
This book truly has it all: intense action, nail-biting suspense, sizzling sexual chemistry, and all the sexy, hot mafia dons a girl could ever want! I genuinely loved all the characters. While I admit I was a little overwhelmed by the initial name-dropping and the sheer number of mafia families – I was confused as hell at first and kept flipping back to the family tree! – it all clicked into place by the end.
I particularly enjoyed how Scarlet and Antonio's relationship developed. Their chemistry practically jumped off the page, and their journey was captivating. Scarlet, our fierce and sweet FMC, proved to be tougher than she ever realized, a strength forged by a difficult past. She embraced the mafia lifestyle and stood proudly by Antonio's side, constantly looking at him with heart eyes! 😍
The writing style and multiple POVs were fantastic, adding so much depth. Plus, the ending was a perfect setup for the next book – I can't wait!
A Few Thoughts & What I'm Craving Next
Getting glimpses into both Scarlet's and Antonio's backstories was a definite highlight (though honestly, I would have loved even more!). Also, as mentioned, the initial deluge of names and the five mafia families made it a bit challenging to keep track without constantly referring to the family tree.
All in all, this was an addictive and incredibly satisfying read. If you're a fan of mafia romance with strong characters, high stakes, and undeniable chemistry, you absolutely need to pick this up!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Scarlet's living the "perfect" life until a girls' night out turns into a nightmare: she's brutally kidnapped and tortured by a ruthless mafia leader. He wants to strong-arm her father, a high-end judge, into swaying a criminal trial. Her only hope lies with Antonio DeLuna, the man her father turns to in desperation. Antonio takes the task, but when he comes face-to-face with Scarlet, his world shifts. His hardened heart awakens, and he falls fiercely in love. Does a man like him deserve something so pure?
Chemistry, Action & Unexpected POVs!
This book truly has it all: intense action, nail-biting suspense, sizzling sexual chemistry, and all the sexy, hot mafia dons a girl could ever want! I genuinely loved all the characters. While I admit I was a little overwhelmed by the initial name-dropping and the sheer number of mafia families – I was confused as hell at first and kept flipping back to the family tree! – it all clicked into place by the end.
I particularly enjoyed how Scarlet and Antonio's relationship developed. Their chemistry practically jumped off the page, and their journey was captivating. Scarlet, our fierce and sweet FMC, proved to be tougher than she ever realized, a strength forged by a difficult past. She embraced the mafia lifestyle and stood proudly by Antonio's side, constantly looking at him with heart eyes! 😍
The writing style and multiple POVs were fantastic, adding so much depth. Plus, the ending was a perfect setup for the next book – I can't wait!
A Few Thoughts & What I'm Craving Next
Getting glimpses into both Scarlet's and Antonio's backstories was a definite highlight (though honestly, I would have loved even more!). Also, as mentioned, the initial deluge of names and the five mafia families made it a bit challenging to keep track without constantly referring to the family tree.
All in all, this was an addictive and incredibly satisfying read. If you're a fan of mafia romance with strong characters, high stakes, and undeniable chemistry, you absolutely need to pick this up!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 29, 2025
She’s taken by ruthless mob, boss, in order to control her father a judge. Her father, not knowing what else to do goes to a rival and asks him to extract his daughter to keep her safe. He does it to pack a favor, but when he sees her, his realizes there is more play than he ever thought there would be. She’s beautiful. Has an innocence about her and calls to him in ways. He’s never experienced before. After the trauma, she just experienced she is frightened that he tenderly takes care of her and she quickly grow to trust him. These characters are really well done you get a good solid background on each of them, as well as fully developed characters for the present. Even though this one is along the kidnapping/abduction trope is refreshing because they immediately start building a rapport and a relationship and you watch that grow in the middle of mafia drama, but their relationship is never part of the angst. They are passionately attracted to each other, and their spice is very steamy. He is obsessed with her and she brings a tenderness to his life. He has never experienced before. She has never felt as protected and loved, which gives her the courage to stand at the front of her own life. This book is the first of an upcoming series, and there is a significant amount of mafia drama that runs through it as well as introduction to future lead characters of the next books and the series. While they do have a happily ever after, there is mafia family drama that will continue the ark in the next story. Not exactly a cliffhanger, but definitely continuation of the story. I’m excited for the next book and I hope to get a little life update of this couple so I enjoyed them so much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 9, 2025
Everything about Scarlet is perfect, the only thing is her father keeps warning her she’s got to be careful that she could be in danger with some of his high-profile cases. She doesn’t listen; she doesn’t think that she would be. Until the night that she returns home and things aren’t right, she realises to late she should have listened to her fathers’ warnings.
Quickly she realises that her kidnappers are using her to try to get her father to make a ruling go there way, her father is known for being the one judge that can’t be brought. Hearing what they want Scarlet knows it’s going to be almost impossible for her father to give them everything they want and knows she’s going to be in a world of pain.
Antonio is intrigued when the one judge that can’t be brought comes to him for help, seeing the video of the judge’s daughter something in Antonio changes, she’s almost like an angel. He sees Scarlett as someone that someone like him shouldn’t be able to have, that doesn’t stop him taking her home and putting her in his room, not a guest room like he should. Antonio knows there’s something about Scarlet that he’s struggling to not be around her, which he knows is wrong, continually telling himself it’s to keep her safe until his father’s killer is in jail.
Antonio tries to deny the attraction until he can’t anymore, he thinks that Scarlet feels the same way but he doesn’t feel that he’s worthy of her.
Scarlet knows that Antonio makes her feel safe, protected and will burn the world for her, something she’s never felt before, and she knows that nothing should ever happen, but she’s finding it harder and harder to resist the man that is showing her how he feels not matter how wrong it is.
Quickly she realises that her kidnappers are using her to try to get her father to make a ruling go there way, her father is known for being the one judge that can’t be brought. Hearing what they want Scarlet knows it’s going to be almost impossible for her father to give them everything they want and knows she’s going to be in a world of pain.
Antonio is intrigued when the one judge that can’t be brought comes to him for help, seeing the video of the judge’s daughter something in Antonio changes, she’s almost like an angel. He sees Scarlett as someone that someone like him shouldn’t be able to have, that doesn’t stop him taking her home and putting her in his room, not a guest room like he should. Antonio knows there’s something about Scarlet that he’s struggling to not be around her, which he knows is wrong, continually telling himself it’s to keep her safe until his father’s killer is in jail.
Antonio tries to deny the attraction until he can’t anymore, he thinks that Scarlet feels the same way but he doesn’t feel that he’s worthy of her.
Scarlet knows that Antonio makes her feel safe, protected and will burn the world for her, something she’s never felt before, and she knows that nothing should ever happen, but she’s finding it harder and harder to resist the man that is showing her how he feels not matter how wrong it is.
July 19, 2025
I love a good high-stakes mafia romance, and Savage King by Bella Ray did not disappoint. There is some great storytelling here. It is an instalove mafia romance where Antonio, the mafia capo, falls in love with Scarlet, the daughter of the judge – a judge Antonio is trying to turn to convict the man who killed his father.
I’m usually not a fan of instalove romances, but the author does it well. This was actually one of the longest mafia romances I’ve read at 500 pages, but I didn’t feel like it was a 500-page book. The story flows well, and the chemistry between the characters is HOT. Bella Ray is really great about the buildup and the attraction between the two characters (even though they do have sex… a lot of it).
A pet peeve of mine in mafia romances is when there is no character ARC, and the characters just have a lot of sex and fall in love. Bella Ray doesn’t fall into this trap. You can see real change in both Antonio and Scarlet, and you can see how those changes make them into the perfect couple. I really hope this element is present in the next two books, because it really works here.
There are a lot of characters introduced in this book, which can get a little overwhelming at times. But there is a helpful family tree in the book to help with names. Introducing so many characters in the first book of a trilogy is to be expected, but I got a little confused with some of them. Luckily, the author is good about reminding you who they are. This setup is for the rest of the trilogy coming out later this year, and I’ll definitely be reading them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’m usually not a fan of instalove romances, but the author does it well. This was actually one of the longest mafia romances I’ve read at 500 pages, but I didn’t feel like it was a 500-page book. The story flows well, and the chemistry between the characters is HOT. Bella Ray is really great about the buildup and the attraction between the two characters (even though they do have sex… a lot of it).
A pet peeve of mine in mafia romances is when there is no character ARC, and the characters just have a lot of sex and fall in love. Bella Ray doesn’t fall into this trap. You can see real change in both Antonio and Scarlet, and you can see how those changes make them into the perfect couple. I really hope this element is present in the next two books, because it really works here.
There are a lot of characters introduced in this book, which can get a little overwhelming at times. But there is a helpful family tree in the book to help with names. Introducing so many characters in the first book of a trilogy is to be expected, but I got a little confused with some of them. Luckily, the author is good about reminding you who they are. This setup is for the rest of the trilogy coming out later this year, and I’ll definitely be reading them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 5, 2025
Savage King is suspenseful and a page turning mafia romance. The story is captivating from start to finish, entertaining and an enjoyable read. I didn’t even want to set this book down for a single moment because I was that hooked by the story. The characters are well developed and beautifully executed throughout the story. Savage King is fantastically written, well balanced and beautifully executed by Bella Ray. This is my first novel I’ve read by this author and was blown away by the storyline. Savage King has a fantastic plot, wonderful characters and a breathtaking ending for the main characters. The main characters of this story are Antonio and Scarlet. The chemistry between the main characters is off the charts hot and undeniably irresistible. I loved getting to know both Antonio and Scarlet as well as seeing their story unfolding through the pages of this book. I do love that they have a happy ending to their story with them being happy together as a couple. If you’re looking for a new dark mafia romance novel to read, then you should checkout and give Savage King a read. I’m definitely going to be checking out more of this author’s work in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 14, 2025
OH WOW! This is a first time read for me by Author Bella Ray, and I am very impressed. I have read a lot of dark Mafia romance and this one stands out for me as it includes so much storyline and plot of what Antonio was going through as a Mafia Boss!
The romance was hot on it's heals and there is plenty of heat from the pages as Antonio and Scarlet get to know one another!
It's plot captivates you and as Antonio works to seek vengeance whilst trying to keep his heart intact, was a feat in discipline! Once his eyes locked onto Scarlet he knew he was in trouble....the good kind of course!
An enemies to lovers, he falls first (very quickly) is written with such flair is had me rooting for Antonio all the way from him getting his justice for his father being murdered to wooing Scarlet so acknowledges that he is not the enemy of her or her father, even though he had to make it look like he was a Savage King of his Familia.
The curveballs and the rollercoaster ride are all worth your time as you delve into The Savage Kings of New York Book 1.
I am so looking forward to Book 2, Enrico and Catalina's story.
The romance was hot on it's heals and there is plenty of heat from the pages as Antonio and Scarlet get to know one another!
It's plot captivates you and as Antonio works to seek vengeance whilst trying to keep his heart intact, was a feat in discipline! Once his eyes locked onto Scarlet he knew he was in trouble....the good kind of course!
An enemies to lovers, he falls first (very quickly) is written with such flair is had me rooting for Antonio all the way from him getting his justice for his father being murdered to wooing Scarlet so acknowledges that he is not the enemy of her or her father, even though he had to make it look like he was a Savage King of his Familia.
The curveballs and the rollercoaster ride are all worth your time as you delve into The Savage Kings of New York Book 1.
I am so looking forward to Book 2, Enrico and Catalina's story.
July 1, 2025
This book has a lot going for it. It’s a mafia romance that has some pretty good intrigue and story to it. Clearly the first of a trilogy, I am very interested to see where the story goes in the next two books. The FMC Scarlet and MMC Antonio have great chemistry. The spicy scenes are excellent.
But there’s one thing that this book desperately needs: an editor. There are formatting/spelling/continuity problems throughout—there’s a critical action scene where the author refers to the same character/guard as Al and Umberto. And it needs refining—there are too many scenes that go on too long just talking about how many fancy face creams Scarlet has because you’re beaten over the head with examples of how rich Antonio is.
I really hope that the author is able to rework this book into the fun and sexy romance that it is at its core, without all the distracting rough-draft snags that detracted from my enjoyment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
But there’s one thing that this book desperately needs: an editor. There are formatting/spelling/continuity problems throughout—there’s a critical action scene where the author refers to the same character/guard as Al and Umberto. And it needs refining—there are too many scenes that go on too long just talking about how many fancy face creams Scarlet has because you’re beaten over the head with examples of how rich Antonio is.
I really hope that the author is able to rework this book into the fun and sexy romance that it is at its core, without all the distracting rough-draft snags that detracted from my enjoyment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 24, 2025
A Perfect Storm!!
When a favorite author decides to expand her writing into one of your favorite genres; and knocks it out of the park! Don’t be fooled by the lack of additional stories - yet; I’m thrilled to see this is planned as a three-part series. It is dark, delicious, well-crafted, complex, and fully satisfying. Obviously an experienced and talented author.
I am a fan of the darkish mafia story, and this one fulfills all those points of danger, family, touch-her-and-die, alpha male who is crazy for his match. We have an amazing strong heroine who can hold her own. While hitting all that I hope for in this genre, it is original and I love this authors’ take on the relationships and situations that the reader is gifted with in these pages.
Do yourself a favor and grab this at your earliest convenience!
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
When a favorite author decides to expand her writing into one of your favorite genres; and knocks it out of the park! Don’t be fooled by the lack of additional stories - yet; I’m thrilled to see this is planned as a three-part series. It is dark, delicious, well-crafted, complex, and fully satisfying. Obviously an experienced and talented author.
I am a fan of the darkish mafia story, and this one fulfills all those points of danger, family, touch-her-and-die, alpha male who is crazy for his match. We have an amazing strong heroine who can hold her own. While hitting all that I hope for in this genre, it is original and I love this authors’ take on the relationships and situations that the reader is gifted with in these pages.
Do yourself a favor and grab this at your earliest convenience!
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
July 4, 2025
10/10 must read for Mafia romance lovers! And this is definitely for those who love a possessive, Morally Gray Alpha MMC who take what they want but will burn everything to protect and care for the women they love. Scarlet is taken by the mafia capo, Carlos, to force her father to preside over his case as judge according to his terms alone. Fearing for her life, Judge Lambert goes to the only person he knows with the same grudge against Carlos and the capability to save her. Antonio, capo of another section of the same mafia family, agrees. But one look at Scarlet and he will stop at nothing to make her his and keep her safe. Antonio and Scarlet love story was so much fun to watch unfold. I loved that intensity of their bond! Bonus for those who love endearing nicknames, the one Antonio had for her is sentimental and so adorable! Bella Rae did an incredible job with this book! Well done!
June 11, 2025
WOW! WOW! WOW! This a a dark Mafia story, no doubt about it. I don't usually read dark Mafia but I am so glad I read this one, it is so good! There is action from the beginning straight to the end! The characters are amazing and so memorable. The world building I seamless and so detailed. But the story is where it shines the brightest! It grabbed me from the start! It's soooo good! Antonio is one of the Don's of the five families that control the Mafia with a cold dead heart..he thinks, right up until he see's Scarlet. She steals his heart before she ever meets him. Scarlet is the daughter of a Judge just living a quiet life until she is kidnapped and Antonio rescues her. That's all I'm going to say except seeing Scarlet come into her own was an extremely fun journey! I recommend this book 1000%!
June 14, 2025
This is the first book in the Savage Kings of New York series. Scarlet manages to ignore her father, get kidnapped and find her future husband in quick succession. Her father is a judge on a criminal case for someone Antionio wants to go to jail. When Scarlet is taken, her father asks Antionio to rescue her.
There're some triggers regarding both parents which was handled well by the author. Antonio's sister is a character as well. The business side was paced well, and the romantic relationship was funny and well-paced. However, there was a lull in the middle of the book that really hurt the flow. It picked back up when Scarlet and Gigi left the house. Unfortunately, it was extremely difficult to push through that part. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There're some triggers regarding both parents which was handled well by the author. Antonio's sister is a character as well. The business side was paced well, and the romantic relationship was funny and well-paced. However, there was a lull in the middle of the book that really hurt the flow. It picked back up when Scarlet and Gigi left the house. Unfortunately, it was extremely difficult to push through that part. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 18, 2025
ARC Review: A classic dark mafia romance with everything I love: danger, betrayal, obsession, and a chemistry that burns. Antonio is a ruthless capo with revenge on his mind, but Scarlet changes everything. He saves her to use her… but ends up needing her more than he expected.
Their bond is intense, full of steam, emotion, and healing. I loved watching Antonio go from cold and calculated to fiercely protective. Scarlet’s strength and vulnerability made her easy to root for.
The side characters (Gigi & Vito!) added heart to the story, and the twists kept me hooked. Mafia politics can get a bit tangled, but the emotional payoff? So worth it.
✨ If you love possessive antiheroes and broken heroines who find light in the darkness—Savage King is for you.
Highly recommended! Can't wait for the second book!
I'm leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
Their bond is intense, full of steam, emotion, and healing. I loved watching Antonio go from cold and calculated to fiercely protective. Scarlet’s strength and vulnerability made her easy to root for.
The side characters (Gigi & Vito!) added heart to the story, and the twists kept me hooked. Mafia politics can get a bit tangled, but the emotional payoff? So worth it.
✨ If you love possessive antiheroes and broken heroines who find light in the darkness—Savage King is for you.
Highly recommended! Can't wait for the second book!
I'm leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
June 19, 2025
Savage King by Bella Ray is book 1 in the Savage Kings of New York series…and it is fantastic!! It’s the story of Antonio and Scarlet. Her father is a fiercely strong and unbreakable judge. But, he wants her to be wary. Scarlet, a museum curator, doesn’t pay much heed to his words…until she is taken. Desperate, her father approaches Antonio, who agrees to help…with certain conditions.
This story had me completely absorbed from the first page!!! The words jump off the page. The writing is vibrant, rich, and emotional. Antonio is the perfect mafia capo. Deadly, strong, confident. Scarlet is a bit innocent…but, she has her secrets…great story!!! Tiny issue is throughout the book, it seems like his name is sometimes Toni and sometimes Tony. Which was a little irritating....but, didn't detract from the story!!
This story had me completely absorbed from the first page!!! The words jump off the page. The writing is vibrant, rich, and emotional. Antonio is the perfect mafia capo. Deadly, strong, confident. Scarlet is a bit innocent…but, she has her secrets…great story!!! Tiny issue is throughout the book, it seems like his name is sometimes Toni and sometimes Tony. Which was a little irritating....but, didn't detract from the story!!
June 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"You are fire and fury, strength and softness, my little
passerotta, my heart, my home."
His jaw tightens, his voice dips lower, "I vow to protect
you, to cherish you, to never let you go. I vow to give you
everything—my name, my loyalty, my life, my soul. I vow
that no one will ever touch you, that no one will ever take
you from me.
"You are mine, Scarlet. My barb. My heart. My world.
And I will love you until the day I take my last breath."
———-
I am delighted with Antonio and I enjoyed this story. I don't know what else I could add because I think this is enough.
This is a new author for me and I can't wait for a new book from this series because I know it will be as good as this one.
Thank you author and BookSirens , I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily .
"You are fire and fury, strength and softness, my little
passerotta, my heart, my home."
His jaw tightens, his voice dips lower, "I vow to protect
you, to cherish you, to never let you go. I vow to give you
everything—my name, my loyalty, my life, my soul. I vow
that no one will ever touch you, that no one will ever take
you from me.
"You are mine, Scarlet. My barb. My heart. My world.
And I will love you until the day I take my last breath."
———-
I am delighted with Antonio and I enjoyed this story. I don't know what else I could add because I think this is enough.
This is a new author for me and I can't wait for a new book from this series because I know it will be as good as this one.
Thank you author and BookSirens , I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily .
June 6, 2025
Scarlet is the judges daughter, and knows little of the depths of darkness that resides within the people of the criminal world, and she certainly never thought one would become her saviour. When shes taken and beaten by her fathers latest defendent, he makes a deal with Antonio to save her. Antionio sees this as an opportunity for revenge against his fathers killer, one hes forbidden from commiting, but when he sees Scarlet she brings out a posseaive sode hes never knowm before, and now the stakes are raised, will he be able to protect her, and get his revenge? Well written engaging steamy, desires, captive obsession, well developed characters and story that draws you in from the start I can't wait for more!
June 8, 2025
Wow, what can I say! I absolutely loved this book. It had me giggling from the start, the characters internal dialogues made these two MC’s completely relatable. Antonio is a typical mafia boss, he’s grumpy & closed off. Scarlet is a kidnapped daughter of a Judge who is “rescued” by Antonio & held at his house as leverage against her father. Both their worlds are flipped upside down by the other, Scarlet has always been a good girl, doing the right thing. Antonio had always been the bad boy. But as the days pass, neither of them can deny their feelings. This is a forced proximity love story, with plot twists, 5 star spice & a HEA. I’ve only just finished this but already would love to read it again for the first time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2025
This is the first in a new series, and this is Antonio and Scarlet’s story.
Scarlet is the daughter of a judge, and a museum curator, and when she is attacked and captured by men whom her father has jailed, he is desperate to find her an approaches Antonio, a ruthless mafia capo, for help, but he has his own conditions attached.
This is a well written action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, danger, suspense, intrigue, loyalty, obsession, forced proximity, secrets, revenge, healing, trust, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, twisted, and unpredictable, dark mafia romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Scarlet is the daughter of a judge, and a museum curator, and when she is attacked and captured by men whom her father has jailed, he is desperate to find her an approaches Antonio, a ruthless mafia capo, for help, but he has his own conditions attached.
This is a well written action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, danger, suspense, intrigue, loyalty, obsession, forced proximity, secrets, revenge, healing, trust, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, twisted, and unpredictable, dark mafia romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
June 21, 2025
This is an ARC Review ❤️ and may contain spoilers!
5⭐️s!!!
Antonio and Scarlet had heat from start!
They say opposites attract and they couldn’t be more right when it came to these 2. Antonio, a Mafia Don, and Scarlet, a judges daughter meet when Scarlets dad begs him to help save her life when she was taken and used as blackmail against her dad.
What started as a job and maybe some leverage grows into a steamy relationship that was meant to last ❤️❤️. This was my first read of Bella’s, but I’m already looking forward to the rest of this series!!
You will love this if you want:
⭐️Touch Her and Die Vibes 🥵
⭐️Dark themes
⭐️Possessive MMC
⭐️Mafia
⭐️Suspense
⭐️Forced Proximity
5⭐️s!!!
Antonio and Scarlet had heat from start!
They say opposites attract and they couldn’t be more right when it came to these 2. Antonio, a Mafia Don, and Scarlet, a judges daughter meet when Scarlets dad begs him to help save her life when she was taken and used as blackmail against her dad.
What started as a job and maybe some leverage grows into a steamy relationship that was meant to last ❤️❤️. This was my first read of Bella’s, but I’m already looking forward to the rest of this series!!
You will love this if you want:
⭐️Touch Her and Die Vibes 🥵
⭐️Dark themes
⭐️Possessive MMC
⭐️Mafia
⭐️Suspense
⭐️Forced Proximity
June 22, 2025
ARC Review
Savage king tells the story about the daughter of a judge and a son of cosa nostra, after she’s kidnapped, tortured and rescued by one of the MMC’s enemies.
My Review:
I loved the book, especially the chemistry between the characters that was soo evident throughout the book. The MMC is an OTT/possessive hero with the “touch her and 💀” vibes. So if you’re into that, this book is definitely your cup of tea.
The FMC slowly grew out of her shell and was definitely cementing herself as a “queen” at the second half of the book.
Giving this book 4 stars.
Can’t wait to read Enrico and Catalina’s story. I’m definitely intrigued by the little teasers shown throughout the book!
Savage king tells the story about the daughter of a judge and a son of cosa nostra, after she’s kidnapped, tortured and rescued by one of the MMC’s enemies.
My Review:
I loved the book, especially the chemistry between the characters that was soo evident throughout the book. The MMC is an OTT/possessive hero with the “touch her and 💀” vibes. So if you’re into that, this book is definitely your cup of tea.
The FMC slowly grew out of her shell and was definitely cementing herself as a “queen” at the second half of the book.
Giving this book 4 stars.
Can’t wait to read Enrico and Catalina’s story. I’m definitely intrigued by the little teasers shown throughout the book!
July 17, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow, I was astounded reading this book I couldn't put this book down, the story was a dark mafia romance and the characters were amazing. This story was about Scarlet and Antonio, Scar let, has been warned to be carful, her father is a Judge so when she disappeared, her father went to ask for help from the one man he knows will be able to rescue her. Antonio, a gorgeous ruthless killer, he is asked for help from the Judge. Antonio, said yes with revenge in mind and the Judge will help him send the person to prison he had his own reasons. The heat between Antonio and Scarlet was very spicy hot and delicious.
Wow, I was astounded reading this book I couldn't put this book down, the story was a dark mafia romance and the characters were amazing. This story was about Scarlet and Antonio, Scar let, has been warned to be carful, her father is a Judge so when she disappeared, her father went to ask for help from the one man he knows will be able to rescue her. Antonio, a gorgeous ruthless killer, he is asked for help from the Judge. Antonio, said yes with revenge in mind and the Judge will help him send the person to prison he had his own reasons. The heat between Antonio and Scarlet was very spicy hot and delicious.
June 16, 2025
Anti-Hero....maybe? Antonio and Scarlet are our couple in this story book one of the Savage Kings of NY. She is taken , her father turns to Antonio for help. Once Antonio see her , it is all over with. She will be his only. This story is twisted, it has the ups and downs and twist and turns, the guts and glory. It was steamy and hot. And the drama was at its best, Scarlet might have started this story being in the dark , but she came out of it and into her own light in the end. With her maybe anti-hero man beside her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2025
Antonio and Scarlet’s story, where do I start?
Their story is long, at times confusing as there are so many people it wasn’t always clear who the baddies were. And boy oh boy the baddies were BAD.
Scarlet, whose mother was evil, a father who loved her and she was kidnapped to ensure her judge father made the right rulings in his courtroom.
Antonio is tough, he loves hard and hates with revenge.
Ok, to sum up, this is a long story, a little too long and wordy in my opinion. A happy ending, no cheating and some heat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Their story is long, at times confusing as there are so many people it wasn’t always clear who the baddies were. And boy oh boy the baddies were BAD.
Scarlet, whose mother was evil, a father who loved her and she was kidnapped to ensure her judge father made the right rulings in his courtroom.
Antonio is tough, he loves hard and hates with revenge.
Ok, to sum up, this is a long story, a little too long and wordy in my opinion. A happy ending, no cheating and some heat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2025
Overall, I really enjoyed this book - I WANTED to love it, because I love a good mafia capo getting mushy on a girl, but some of it just didn't hit with me. Loved Antonio as the MMC - some "funny" internal monologue to go with the dark mafia story. Scarlett was a good FMC - but I didn't connect with her as much as I would have liked. I hate as a reader, when you SEE the writing on the wall so to speak ( no spoilers here). It was long, at 500 pages, but I didn't feel too long - and read easily. Way too many names going around for me to keep up with all the side characters - but I can't wait to read more in this "world" now that I'm settled in! Thanks Booksirens for an ARC copy!
December 16, 2025
I was looking for a good mafia romance and I did read this one quickly but I will say that I did skip a bit. If I was in the mood for the mafia plot itself I would have enjoyed it more but I wasn’t in the mood for this at the time.
Scarlett doesn’t seem to have any issues with not talking to any of her friends or family and staying inside his mansion all day and that kinda bothered me. The intro to this book is her going out with her friends like they do every week and I was excited to see their dynamic more but we never got that. I just got bored with her chapters because she said the same things over and over.
Scarlett doesn’t seem to have any issues with not talking to any of her friends or family and staying inside his mansion all day and that kinda bothered me. The intro to this book is her going out with her friends like they do every week and I was excited to see their dynamic more but we never got that. I just got bored with her chapters because she said the same things over and over.
June 10, 2025
OMG my first read from Bella Ray and I am blown away by both the author and the hot and steamy relationship between Antonio and Scarlet. It’s also full of dark mafia suspense that keeps you enthralled in the book’s plot but I must admit the intensity that develops between these two is unbelievably hot, and the fact that the other characters within this book along with the plot carry on I presume into a series which I can’t wait to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 18, 2025
This is my first story by the author!
I am so, so happy DS Productions brought her to my attention!
What's even better…this is the first of the Savage Kings of NY series! YAY!
Ms. Ray brought the right amount of dark to this mafia romance!
The plot was extremely captivating and unusual, in my opinion.
You'll need to read it to see if you agree!
The world-building was done well.
The characters, fantastic.
The steam...singed my fingertips!
I cannot wait to indulge in more Ray stories!
I am so, so happy DS Productions brought her to my attention!
What's even better…this is the first of the Savage Kings of NY series! YAY!
Ms. Ray brought the right amount of dark to this mafia romance!
The plot was extremely captivating and unusual, in my opinion.
You'll need to read it to see if you agree!
The world-building was done well.
The characters, fantastic.
The steam...singed my fingertips!
I cannot wait to indulge in more Ray stories!
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