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King
An Enemies to Lovers, Secret Pregnancy Dark Mafia Romance
Giovanni
I loved her in secret. I buried her in silence.
Now, she’s back with the one thing I can’t deny—my son.
Zina appears at my wife’s funeral like a ghost from hell with a boy who has my eyes.
She says she wants justice. She wants me to accept him.
But I know she wants power.
She’s poison in a black dress. And I crave every damn drop.
I can’t think straight around her—her scent in my sheets, her fire in my veins.
Her scent haunts me. Her body still begs for mine.
Zina wants the kingdom I built…and I want her.
If I’m not careful, she’ll take it. Piece by piece.
Zina
I was his wild obsession. His hidden sin.
I loved him, but SHE wore his ring.
Giovanni Rivas swore he loved me. Then he left me to rot in silence.
I disappeared—pregnant, heartbroken, and erased.
Now his wife is gone, and I’m done hiding.
But this time, I’m not his mistress—I’m his reckoning.
I want what was promised to me long ago—my place beside him.
I see the way he looks at me…he remembers my taste.
He still hungers for my body.
But he tells me I’m a threat.
I tell him I’m just getting started.
King is the first book in Shattered A Mafia Romance Series, but it can be read as a complete standalone. This is a full-length novel with no cheating. This six-book series follows the Rivas family and the twisted tales of love, hate, secrets, and lies that tie them together and shatter them apart.
Giovanni
I loved her in secret. I buried her in silence.
Now, she’s back with the one thing I can’t deny—my son.
Zina appears at my wife’s funeral like a ghost from hell with a boy who has my eyes.
She says she wants justice. She wants me to accept him.
But I know she wants power.
She’s poison in a black dress. And I crave every damn drop.
I can’t think straight around her—her scent in my sheets, her fire in my veins.
Her scent haunts me. Her body still begs for mine.
Zina wants the kingdom I built…and I want her.
If I’m not careful, she’ll take it. Piece by piece.
Zina
I was his wild obsession. His hidden sin.
I loved him, but SHE wore his ring.
Giovanni Rivas swore he loved me. Then he left me to rot in silence.
I disappeared—pregnant, heartbroken, and erased.
Now his wife is gone, and I’m done hiding.
But this time, I’m not his mistress—I’m his reckoning.
I want what was promised to me long ago—my place beside him.
I see the way he looks at me…he remembers my taste.
He still hungers for my body.
But he tells me I’m a threat.
I tell him I’m just getting started.
King is the first book in Shattered A Mafia Romance Series, but it can be read as a complete standalone. This is a full-length novel with no cheating. This six-book series follows the Rivas family and the twisted tales of love, hate, secrets, and lies that tie them together and shatter them apart.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2025
139 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
January 30, 2026
This is a Mafia Second Chance Romance, and this is the first book in the Shattered Pieces series. The first couple chapters I enjoyed, but then I started not liking it. I hated the not trusting thing going on in this book, and I felt the same things kept coming up. This book just drove me crazy because we just kept going over the same things over and over. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
May 4, 2025
The typos kill the story
I think the book could be great...the lack of grammatical editing made it impossible to even get 10% the way through it though. I gave up after counting over 25 errors in the first 20 pages.
I think the book could be great...the lack of grammatical editing made it impossible to even get 10% the way through it though. I gave up after counting over 25 errors in the first 20 pages.
May 6, 2025
I really enjoyed this book . I couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I got so invested in Giovanni and Zain. I loved that it kept me guessing and felt all the feelings reading this story and did not see the ending coming at all. I has grief, heartache mafia bosses , drama , the spice was spicing . This book tocked all the boxes for ne and can't wait to see what comes next! A gripping read.
May 24, 2025
This book was emotional from page 1. I wasn’t expecting the beginning of a book to begin like it did We got to see Giovanni and Zina characters through everything that happens. There was spice mixed with suspense . By the end I had to find out what was going to happen. I was not prepared for this ending!! I can not wait for the next one!!.
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.
May 7, 2025
I’ll be honest — this book just didn’t work for me. While I usually enjoy mafia romances with complicated family drama and secret children, King fell flat because of both the characters and how their motivations were handled.
First, Giovanni’s character really disappointed me. I don’t mind morally grey heroes, but he came off more spineless and indecisive than powerful or commanding. He cheated on his wife Bella, didn’t own up to it, couldn’t control his family, and wavered constantly between lusting after Zina and doubting her. It was frustrating watching him avoid every important conversation by jumping into bed with Zina instead. It didn’t even feel like steamy tension — more like a plot device to drag the story.
Zina’s point about Giovanni using her “for entertainment in the dark hours” and discarding her in daylight was spot-on. He couldn’t even admit to his sons that he cheated on their mother, but was quick to backhand them for lashing out at Zina. The hypocrisy was just too much. His handling of his sons was terrible — Santino, in particular, called him out rightly for moving on too soon after Bella’s death, and Giovanni responded by grabbing his collar and brushing it off as irrelevant. Then he expected his sons to be fine with a rushed wedding? Honestly, Santino’s reaction felt the most realistic and justified.
For a mafia romance, there was also barely any mafia content. A few vague mentions of random rivals popped in and out without any weight or buildup. Giovanni didn’t come across as a leader of an underworld empire at all — he made rash, emotional decisions and seemed clueless half the time.
The blurb also said “no cheating”, which is misleading. The affair happens before Bella dies, and even if Bella didn’t know, readers do — so yes, it counts as cheating. If I’d known that upfront, I wouldn’t have picked up the book.
Lastly, the ending confused me. It promised a HEA (happily ever after), but there was nothing satisfying or conclusive about it in this book. Just more doubts, rushed decisions, and unresolved conflicts.
Overall, while some readers who like cheating tropes or heavy angst might enjoy this, it wasn’t for me. The writing and editing were clean, and the cover looked good — but the character inconsistency and weak plot dropped it to 2 stars for me. I won’t be continuing the series.
⚠️ Content warnings: past infidelity, grief, cancer (mentioned), family conflict, mafia violence, objectifying intimate scenes.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
First, Giovanni’s character really disappointed me. I don’t mind morally grey heroes, but he came off more spineless and indecisive than powerful or commanding. He cheated on his wife Bella, didn’t own up to it, couldn’t control his family, and wavered constantly between lusting after Zina and doubting her. It was frustrating watching him avoid every important conversation by jumping into bed with Zina instead. It didn’t even feel like steamy tension — more like a plot device to drag the story.
Zina’s point about Giovanni using her “for entertainment in the dark hours” and discarding her in daylight was spot-on. He couldn’t even admit to his sons that he cheated on their mother, but was quick to backhand them for lashing out at Zina. The hypocrisy was just too much. His handling of his sons was terrible — Santino, in particular, called him out rightly for moving on too soon after Bella’s death, and Giovanni responded by grabbing his collar and brushing it off as irrelevant. Then he expected his sons to be fine with a rushed wedding? Honestly, Santino’s reaction felt the most realistic and justified.
For a mafia romance, there was also barely any mafia content. A few vague mentions of random rivals popped in and out without any weight or buildup. Giovanni didn’t come across as a leader of an underworld empire at all — he made rash, emotional decisions and seemed clueless half the time.
The blurb also said “no cheating”, which is misleading. The affair happens before Bella dies, and even if Bella didn’t know, readers do — so yes, it counts as cheating. If I’d known that upfront, I wouldn’t have picked up the book.
Lastly, the ending confused me. It promised a HEA (happily ever after), but there was nothing satisfying or conclusive about it in this book. Just more doubts, rushed decisions, and unresolved conflicts.
Overall, while some readers who like cheating tropes or heavy angst might enjoy this, it wasn’t for me. The writing and editing were clean, and the cover looked good — but the character inconsistency and weak plot dropped it to 2 stars for me. I won’t be continuing the series.
⚠️ Content warnings: past infidelity, grief, cancer (mentioned), family conflict, mafia violence, objectifying intimate scenes.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2025
***3½ stars***
King by Hannah Rio is the first book in the Shattered Hearts: A Mafia Romance Series. This also happens to be the first book I have read from author Hannah Rio. I’ve been trying to broaden my horizons and experience different authors this year. The synopsis for Hannah Rio’s book KING had me immediately wanting to read this book! The synopsis speaks for itself so if you want to know what this book is about, check it out!
Giovanni has just had his life ripped apart for the past year. He watched his beloved wife battle cancer and then lose her fight. Now it’s taking all the power he has to keep his three sons from unraveling into their grief. But to make matters worse, a blast from his past comes back into the picture with a sixteen-year-old secret standing by her side.
Zina has waited the past sixteen years to tell the love of her life that he fathered a son and she would’ve waited as long as his wife was still in the picture. She’s not about dismantling a family she initially knew nothing about. But now, it’s Zina’s time to show her son who his father is and be given the Rivas last name. And she’ll fight like hell to see her son get the name he deserves.
What Zina doesn’t grasp though, is Giovanni’s three sons are not about to let her step into their lives with a fight of their own. It’s a matter of life or death and where Zina is concerned they’ll quickly choose her death over her life.
My Thoughts:
I read this book in one day! Hannah Rio had me consumed with her words! Sure, there were a few storyline issues for me that initially had me rating this book a 3 ½ star rating. But at the end of the day, I had trouble putting this one down! I will be reading more from this author very soon.
Let’s talk about the characters. Starting with Zina. I have to say, timing is everything, and introducing her sixteen-year-old son on the day of the father’s wife’s funeral is not perfect timing. Of course, the man is going to be relentless and not want to hear your words. He’s in mourning. Give it a few weeks. I do have to say, it made for some wonderfully dramatic moments! So when it comes to Zina, she does not have good timing in situations. But where she lacks in the timing she makes up in the persistence category. This woman knows what she wants and she’ll do anything in her power to see it happens. She is also fiercely stubborn and a tad bit manipulative. Her character had me scratching my head and wondering what the hell she was up to. But at the end of the day, she is a caring mother who only wants what's right for her son.
And then we have Giovanni. Giovanni is cold, calculated, and dark when he needs to be. Only the people closest to him see his soft side. And Zina used to be one to see his gentlest side. Now, he doesn’t know what to make of Zina and her son and I loved the back-and-forth array of emotions he showed throughout the first half of this novel. This man was all caught up in his emotions, and it showed. I do have to say, he was my least-liked character in this novel. There were moments when I wanted to shake him and remind him that he was the KING of the RIVAS MAFIA! He has the power to seek out answers on his own. He doesn’t need a handler to do his dirty work. But no matter how much I screamed at my Kindle, the man just wouldn’t listen to me… I liked him during the first half because I understood his turmoil. After conversations were had, feelings were exchanged, words were proclaimed… the back and forth started to feel forced and wrong. And here is the perfect time to talk about my rating and why I decided to rate this book 3 ½ stars. I loved the premise and the storytelling was amazing. What I didn’t like was the back-and-forth between Zina and Giovanni. At first, his pushing her away was understandable due to his circumstances. But, in my opinion, after the fourth or fifth time, it started to feel a bit emotionally abusive. I could have done with a recollection earlier on and a hand in telling his sons to bite the big one over the constant push-and-pull method. It seemed like once I started to like these two together, they were suddenly torn apart by misguided accusations…
My initial plan was to drop my rating to 3 stars…. But then Hannah Rio did the impossible! She pulled the rug out from under my feet and shocked the hell out of me with that ending. My heart felt like it fell into my stomach. Now, I have to keep reading this series to find out what happens to Zina and the Rivas family. And that is why I added a ½ star back to my rating. I need answers and hopefully, I will find them in the next book, Queen! We shall see
King by Hannah Rio’s tropes is labeled as Enemies To Lovers, Secret Pregnancy, and Dark Mafia Romance. The enemies-to-lovers vibe was strong as is the dark mafia romance. I do have to make a claim, this is not a secret pregnancy romance… this is a Secret Child romance or as I have labeled it, SURPRISE! You’re a daddy romance. When Zina walks back into Giovanni’s life sixteen years later, she brings with her a sixteen-year-old son. So if you decided to pick this one up due to the secret pregnancy aspect, you won’t find that here.
Overall, King by Hannah Rio was a like for me. I wanted this one to be a love and I thought it would be during the first half of the novel. But we can’t always get what we want. I needed a little less emotional warfare back and forth to feel the connection between Zina and Giovanni. But I am intrigued to keep reading and see where Zina finds herself during this crazy journey she set for herself.
_________
Find me here:
The Staircase Reader
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Bookbub
King by Hannah Rio is the first book in the Shattered Hearts: A Mafia Romance Series. This also happens to be the first book I have read from author Hannah Rio. I’ve been trying to broaden my horizons and experience different authors this year. The synopsis for Hannah Rio’s book KING had me immediately wanting to read this book! The synopsis speaks for itself so if you want to know what this book is about, check it out!
Giovanni has just had his life ripped apart for the past year. He watched his beloved wife battle cancer and then lose her fight. Now it’s taking all the power he has to keep his three sons from unraveling into their grief. But to make matters worse, a blast from his past comes back into the picture with a sixteen-year-old secret standing by her side.
Zina has waited the past sixteen years to tell the love of her life that he fathered a son and she would’ve waited as long as his wife was still in the picture. She’s not about dismantling a family she initially knew nothing about. But now, it’s Zina’s time to show her son who his father is and be given the Rivas last name. And she’ll fight like hell to see her son get the name he deserves.
What Zina doesn’t grasp though, is Giovanni’s three sons are not about to let her step into their lives with a fight of their own. It’s a matter of life or death and where Zina is concerned they’ll quickly choose her death over her life.
My Thoughts:
I read this book in one day! Hannah Rio had me consumed with her words! Sure, there were a few storyline issues for me that initially had me rating this book a 3 ½ star rating. But at the end of the day, I had trouble putting this one down! I will be reading more from this author very soon.
Let’s talk about the characters. Starting with Zina. I have to say, timing is everything, and introducing her sixteen-year-old son on the day of the father’s wife’s funeral is not perfect timing. Of course, the man is going to be relentless and not want to hear your words. He’s in mourning. Give it a few weeks. I do have to say, it made for some wonderfully dramatic moments! So when it comes to Zina, she does not have good timing in situations. But where she lacks in the timing she makes up in the persistence category. This woman knows what she wants and she’ll do anything in her power to see it happens. She is also fiercely stubborn and a tad bit manipulative. Her character had me scratching my head and wondering what the hell she was up to. But at the end of the day, she is a caring mother who only wants what's right for her son.
And then we have Giovanni. Giovanni is cold, calculated, and dark when he needs to be. Only the people closest to him see his soft side. And Zina used to be one to see his gentlest side. Now, he doesn’t know what to make of Zina and her son and I loved the back-and-forth array of emotions he showed throughout the first half of this novel. This man was all caught up in his emotions, and it showed. I do have to say, he was my least-liked character in this novel. There were moments when I wanted to shake him and remind him that he was the KING of the RIVAS MAFIA! He has the power to seek out answers on his own. He doesn’t need a handler to do his dirty work. But no matter how much I screamed at my Kindle, the man just wouldn’t listen to me… I liked him during the first half because I understood his turmoil. After conversations were had, feelings were exchanged, words were proclaimed… the back and forth started to feel forced and wrong. And here is the perfect time to talk about my rating and why I decided to rate this book 3 ½ stars. I loved the premise and the storytelling was amazing. What I didn’t like was the back-and-forth between Zina and Giovanni. At first, his pushing her away was understandable due to his circumstances. But, in my opinion, after the fourth or fifth time, it started to feel a bit emotionally abusive. I could have done with a recollection earlier on and a hand in telling his sons to bite the big one over the constant push-and-pull method. It seemed like once I started to like these two together, they were suddenly torn apart by misguided accusations…
My initial plan was to drop my rating to 3 stars…. But then Hannah Rio did the impossible! She pulled the rug out from under my feet and shocked the hell out of me with that ending. My heart felt like it fell into my stomach. Now, I have to keep reading this series to find out what happens to Zina and the Rivas family. And that is why I added a ½ star back to my rating. I need answers and hopefully, I will find them in the next book, Queen! We shall see
King by Hannah Rio’s tropes is labeled as Enemies To Lovers, Secret Pregnancy, and Dark Mafia Romance. The enemies-to-lovers vibe was strong as is the dark mafia romance. I do have to make a claim, this is not a secret pregnancy romance… this is a Secret Child romance or as I have labeled it, SURPRISE! You’re a daddy romance. When Zina walks back into Giovanni’s life sixteen years later, she brings with her a sixteen-year-old son. So if you decided to pick this one up due to the secret pregnancy aspect, you won’t find that here.
Overall, King by Hannah Rio was a like for me. I wanted this one to be a love and I thought it would be during the first half of the novel. But we can’t always get what we want. I needed a little less emotional warfare back and forth to feel the connection between Zina and Giovanni. But I am intrigued to keep reading and see where Zina finds herself during this crazy journey she set for herself.
_________
Find me here:
The Staircase Reader
Bookbub
April 30, 2025
Giovanni and Zina share a past relationship that puts a cloud on their future. There is a lot of mistrust and distrust, and someone is looking to destroy their relationship before it has a chance to bloom. There was so much going on with the background characters that it was difficult to relate to Zina and Giovanni as a couple.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 2, 2025
Another great start to a new series by Hannah Rio!
Second chances are meant to be happy reunions with long lost loves, but for Zina and Giovanni their love was a very rocky road, and so not happy!
Being Giovanni's best kept secret, Zina returns with their son, 16 y.o Guido, He was married when they had their affair and he chose his wife and 3 sons over her. She loved him then and she still loves him now!
Unfortunately for Zina she returns on the day of Gio's wife's funeral....something that I was a bit baffled with, as why would any one do that?
So, to say Giovanni and his 3 sons were not impressed with her presence is an understatement!
As she embeds herself in his life again Gio realizes even after all these years he never fell out of love with Zina and only settled with his wife and sons. His sons do not make it easy for Zina, as she tries to win them all over. Threats on her life nearly a daily occurrence. where these threats were coming from she did not know.
They begin to re-establish their relationship, but there are enemies around that do not want Zina and Giovanni to be together. Fighting against all odds, Gio professes his love for Zina only months after losing his wife and marries Zina. Zina is happy and so glad that he has accepted Guido as his son. Usual Mafia drama unfolds and leads to unexpected events and threats and leading to something I have to say, did not see coming...
The soft cliff hanger leaves you wanting more, especially about the Mafia King, Gio's no.1 rival!
Bring on book 2, Queen as I am hoping for more clarification in regards to Zina and what she did for 16 years before returning to Gio! There is a lot left to the imagination as some topics were skirted around and then not expanded upon at all in the book, as you expect some form of explanation or clarification, which is not given. In saying that this book is still a good read that has you vested till the end and in Gio and his sons accepting Zina and Guido into their lives.
Second chances are meant to be happy reunions with long lost loves, but for Zina and Giovanni their love was a very rocky road, and so not happy!
Being Giovanni's best kept secret, Zina returns with their son, 16 y.o Guido, He was married when they had their affair and he chose his wife and 3 sons over her. She loved him then and she still loves him now!
Unfortunately for Zina she returns on the day of Gio's wife's funeral....something that I was a bit baffled with, as why would any one do that?
So, to say Giovanni and his 3 sons were not impressed with her presence is an understatement!
As she embeds herself in his life again Gio realizes even after all these years he never fell out of love with Zina and only settled with his wife and sons. His sons do not make it easy for Zina, as she tries to win them all over. Threats on her life nearly a daily occurrence. where these threats were coming from she did not know.
They begin to re-establish their relationship, but there are enemies around that do not want Zina and Giovanni to be together. Fighting against all odds, Gio professes his love for Zina only months after losing his wife and marries Zina. Zina is happy and so glad that he has accepted Guido as his son. Usual Mafia drama unfolds and leads to unexpected events and threats and leading to something I have to say, did not see coming...
The soft cliff hanger leaves you wanting more, especially about the Mafia King, Gio's no.1 rival!
Bring on book 2, Queen as I am hoping for more clarification in regards to Zina and what she did for 16 years before returning to Gio! There is a lot left to the imagination as some topics were skirted around and then not expanded upon at all in the book, as you expect some form of explanation or clarification, which is not given. In saying that this book is still a good read that has you vested till the end and in Gio and his sons accepting Zina and Guido into their lives.
May 24, 2025
Giovanni and Zina… I’ve got mixed feelings on this one.
Initially, I thought that this would be a bit of a heartbreak novel - we open on Giovanni’s wife’s funeral, and I thought it would lead into reluctance to start a new relationship….
WRONG!!!
A few pages later, and I was raging!!! Giovanni and his sons are the biggest pieces of sh!t to walk the earth and I wanted Zina to string them up by their ba!!s. Normally, I don’t side with the ‘mistress’ and how she went about it, but after what he did to her 16 years earlier - rain fire baby…
Gio… for a mafia boss is a coward, a bully and a fool. His sons are not much better…
By 40% though, I was ready to throw my kindle. Why the f**k would she start chasing him and comforting him about his wife. He CHEATED, DISCARDED you, treats you like a wh**e, thinks and acts like you are betraying him, treats you and your son like cr*p.
Then he SA’s you to prove a point.
And his sons…. don;t get me started on Santino and Fabio - I would happy m**der them in their sleep.
I thought she had a spine - looks like she had it removed. When there is a murder plot against you, and you just forgive them??? Ugh!
While I loved the book and found it really engaging, I would have loved to see some kind of grovel from Gio. It’s dark, but his betrayals were really rough, and surely he felt some kind of remorse for how he treated her. The fact that the ‘hero’ was so wishy-washy, even after they resumed their relationship made me so cranky - my heart was breaking for Zina.
Despite loving this book… my ideal ending would have been Zina lops his head, and she rules the underworld as queen. This ending… oh my god!!!!!
Woman! Holy effing he!! What a cliffhanger!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Initially, I thought that this would be a bit of a heartbreak novel - we open on Giovanni’s wife’s funeral, and I thought it would lead into reluctance to start a new relationship….
WRONG!!!
A few pages later, and I was raging!!! Giovanni and his sons are the biggest pieces of sh!t to walk the earth and I wanted Zina to string them up by their ba!!s. Normally, I don’t side with the ‘mistress’ and how she went about it, but after what he did to her 16 years earlier - rain fire baby…
Gio… for a mafia boss is a coward, a bully and a fool. His sons are not much better…
By 40% though, I was ready to throw my kindle. Why the f**k would she start chasing him and comforting him about his wife. He CHEATED, DISCARDED you, treats you like a wh**e, thinks and acts like you are betraying him, treats you and your son like cr*p.
Then he SA’s you to prove a point.
And his sons…. don;t get me started on Santino and Fabio - I would happy m**der them in their sleep.
I thought she had a spine - looks like she had it removed. When there is a murder plot against you, and you just forgive them??? Ugh!
While I loved the book and found it really engaging, I would have loved to see some kind of grovel from Gio. It’s dark, but his betrayals were really rough, and surely he felt some kind of remorse for how he treated her. The fact that the ‘hero’ was so wishy-washy, even after they resumed their relationship made me so cranky - my heart was breaking for Zina.
Despite loving this book… my ideal ending would have been Zina lops his head, and she rules the underworld as queen. This ending… oh my god!!!!!
Woman! Holy effing he!! What a cliffhanger!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2025
This novel had me hooked from the very beginning. The mystery surrounding who was after the family kept me constantly guessing—I truly didn’t see the ending coming, which made the story all the more satisfying. The plot moved at a perfect pace, with each chapter seamlessly flowing into the next. It was just the right length, keeping me engaged without ever feeling dragged out.
While the storyline was compelling, I found the romantic scenes a bit too detailed and frequent for my taste. They didn’t always feel essential to the plot, but I can see how fans of steamy romance novels would find them well-written and enjoyable.
One recommendation I would make is for the author, Hannah, to include more detailed trigger warnings. Certain scenes were surprisingly dark and graphic, and a bit of forewarning would have helped prepare readers for those moments.
The characters were a strong point in this book—some were instantly lovable, while others I couldn’t stand—but that range only added depth and realism to the story. They made the narrative feel alive and emotionally layered.
Overall, this was a great read that kept me on my toes, and I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up the second book in the series. If you're looking for a gripping story with suspense, complex characters, and a heavy dose of romance, this might just be the book for you.
While the storyline was compelling, I found the romantic scenes a bit too detailed and frequent for my taste. They didn’t always feel essential to the plot, but I can see how fans of steamy romance novels would find them well-written and enjoyable.
One recommendation I would make is for the author, Hannah, to include more detailed trigger warnings. Certain scenes were surprisingly dark and graphic, and a bit of forewarning would have helped prepare readers for those moments.
The characters were a strong point in this book—some were instantly lovable, while others I couldn’t stand—but that range only added depth and realism to the story. They made the narrative feel alive and emotionally layered.
Overall, this was a great read that kept me on my toes, and I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up the second book in the series. If you're looking for a gripping story with suspense, complex characters, and a heavy dose of romance, this might just be the book for you.
August 12, 2025
King is a very emotional story. It was enjoyable from the very beginning. It was my first book from this author and won't be my last.
Gio is at the funeral of his dead wife with his family and three sons. He is so heartbroken after watching the love of his life battle a long bout with cancer. She meant so much to him and it was easy to feel the emotions he was feeling. He knows he has to stay strong for his sons. On his worst possible day he sees a woman he knew from his past, Zina. She has a son by her side and she has come to talk to Gio about it.
Zina comes at the worst time for Gio to tell him about the son he fathered many years ago. She has had all this time to tell him so I was confused why she just now told him. When she confronts Gio, he doesn't want to talk to her but she insists on talking to him. Gio's sons hear some of their conversation and become very angry and hostile toward Zina's son. What will happen to Zina and Gio's relationship? Will he find out her son is his son? You have to read this one to find out. I look forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gio is at the funeral of his dead wife with his family and three sons. He is so heartbroken after watching the love of his life battle a long bout with cancer. She meant so much to him and it was easy to feel the emotions he was feeling. He knows he has to stay strong for his sons. On his worst possible day he sees a woman he knew from his past, Zina. She has a son by her side and she has come to talk to Gio about it.
Zina comes at the worst time for Gio to tell him about the son he fathered many years ago. She has had all this time to tell him so I was confused why she just now told him. When she confronts Gio, he doesn't want to talk to her but she insists on talking to him. Gio's sons hear some of their conversation and become very angry and hostile toward Zina's son. What will happen to Zina and Gio's relationship? Will he find out her son is his son? You have to read this one to find out. I look forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2025
I've enjoyed other books by this author and was looking forward to the start of a new series by her. Based on this book I'm not so sure. I didn't warm to any of the characters really, except for Guido, the newly discovered son. I know this is fiction and some belief has to be suspended but I think the author asked too much of us and wanted us to forgive adultery for the sake of a storyline, which we didn't really get. Why did Gio have an affair with Zina 16 years ago? What were the circumstances? Gio's other three sons, considering they were young adults, with the exception of Dante, were childish and spiteful. Gio, as the head of a mafia family, seemed to be emotionally all over the place and missed obvious clues along the way and didn't follow up on instructions he'd given.
In some respects the ending twist was deserved.
All in all quite a disappointing read. Saying that - will I read the next book in the series? Yes, as I'd like to know what the characters do next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In some respects the ending twist was deserved.
All in all quite a disappointing read. Saying that - will I read the next book in the series? Yes, as I'd like to know what the characters do next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 30, 2025
Wow, what a rollercoaster of emotions Zina and Giovanni’s story is! Sixteen years ago, they had a passionate affair, but Giovanni made the tough choice to stay with his wife, leaving Zina heartbroken. Fast forward to the present, and we find ourselves at his wife’s funeral—what a twist! Zina shows up with a son Giovanni never knew existed! Can you imagine the tension? His sons are obviously not thrilled, and there's that classic mafia drama where everyone's got their own agenda.
Zina is determined to rekindle their relationship and build a bond between Giovanni and his son, fighting against all odds! The struggle and turmoil keep ramping up in such an exciting way. And just when you think you have it all figured out, the author throws in a surprise twist that leaves you breathless and eager for the next book! I'm on the edge of my seat, anxiously waiting to see where this incredible journey goes next!
Zina is determined to rekindle their relationship and build a bond between Giovanni and his son, fighting against all odds! The struggle and turmoil keep ramping up in such an exciting way. And just when you think you have it all figured out, the author throws in a surprise twist that leaves you breathless and eager for the next book! I'm on the edge of my seat, anxiously waiting to see where this incredible journey goes next!
May 14, 2025
At first glance, I thought I would love this story, but unfortunately it was very hard for me to get into. The whole premise was fine until it took place at Gio’s wife’s funeral. I just could not accept that this was in any way acceptable for Zina to do. The events that followed made things much worse in my eyes.
But, I had to keep reading. There was so much subterfuge, testing of loyalties, and testing of character. Gio didn’t make a lot of good decisions, either. He came off as a weak man in ways that counted. But still I read, and you will, too. As much as I could not forgive these two, I had to stick with the story to see what happened. It was an advance copy I received, so I always read those to the end. It does have an HEA, but you will have to decide for yourself if these two deserve it.
But, I had to keep reading. There was so much subterfuge, testing of loyalties, and testing of character. Gio didn’t make a lot of good decisions, either. He came off as a weak man in ways that counted. But still I read, and you will, too. As much as I could not forgive these two, I had to stick with the story to see what happened. It was an advance copy I received, so I always read those to the end. It does have an HEA, but you will have to decide for yourself if these two deserve it.
June 5, 2025
This was a rollercoaster ride! Started out at Giovanni's wife funeral where Zina shows up with a secret she's held for 16 years. That's how long ago Gio stopped his affair with her and sent her away brokenhearted.
However, Zina's return is marred by unexpected threats to the Rivas family.
Everyone including Gio, suspects Zina knows more than she admits and this creates greater animosity between her and Gio's sons.
With suspicion floating around her, Zina vows to figure out who is behind all the recent events on her own as nobody believes she's innocent.
With everything she wants hanging in the balance, Zina tries her best, but the enemy is closer than anyone could have anticipated and she might be too late to save her new family.
This book ends on a dramatic cliffhanger so be ready to read the book "Queen".
Enjoyed this and looking forward to the next book.
However, Zina's return is marred by unexpected threats to the Rivas family.
Everyone including Gio, suspects Zina knows more than she admits and this creates greater animosity between her and Gio's sons.
With suspicion floating around her, Zina vows to figure out who is behind all the recent events on her own as nobody believes she's innocent.
With everything she wants hanging in the balance, Zina tries her best, but the enemy is closer than anyone could have anticipated and she might be too late to save her new family.
This book ends on a dramatic cliffhanger so be ready to read the book "Queen".
Enjoyed this and looking forward to the next book.
July 16, 2025
In book one of the Shattered Pieces Series, King, Giovanni Rivas is burying his wife, Bella. His mistress, Zina, from sixteen years ago shows up at the funeral. Zina Lucas has decided she has waited long enough. It was time for Giovanni to meet his son Guido and for them to be a family. This was the first book I have read by Hannah Rio. I felt like she did a great job on Zina's personality but not so good a job on Giovanni's. The book itself was the kind of book you don't put down easily especially if you like mafia tales. I received a late advance review copy therefore don't know if the typos were corrected by publication. I did enjoy this book and am looking forward to reading book two in the series, Queen.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 28, 2025
What an ending!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'm still trying to process it… I was crying while reading the end.😭
I get the feeling that the sons have toward Zina but I don't get why they never change. And then Zina, I love her but she is way to sweet and soft. So unless there is still some kind of plottwist we still have to uncover in the next books, I don't get why everything keeps on getting chances from her. Giovianni's acting toward Zina angered me, he needs to make up his mind.
I'm looking forward to the next books 😍 I hope we can unravel some secrets from this story in the next books!
It is an easy and captivating read, once I started I needed to read the rest to know how it ended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'm still trying to process it… I was crying while reading the end.😭
I get the feeling that the sons have toward Zina but I don't get why they never change. And then Zina, I love her but she is way to sweet and soft. So unless there is still some kind of plottwist we still have to uncover in the next books, I don't get why everything keeps on getting chances from her. Giovianni's acting toward Zina angered me, he needs to make up his mind.
I'm looking forward to the next books 😍 I hope we can unravel some secrets from this story in the next books!
It is an easy and captivating read, once I started I needed to read the rest to know how it ended.
May 22, 2025
This was a good book overall. Not very much in the way of mafia stuff but the dark romance, forbidden love, second chance, surprise child was all there.
The mmc Giovanni is the “King of the underworld” and on the day of his wife’s death his lover, Zina, from over a decade before resurfaces with her 16 year old son demanding to be let into his life and given a second chance.
The drama in this family was so fraught with tension it was crazy. You could feel the hate coming off the kids just reading the book. This is book one of the series and it kept my attention. I can’t wait to read book two as this one left us on a cliff hanger.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The mmc Giovanni is the “King of the underworld” and on the day of his wife’s death his lover, Zina, from over a decade before resurfaces with her 16 year old son demanding to be let into his life and given a second chance.
The drama in this family was so fraught with tension it was crazy. You could feel the hate coming off the kids just reading the book. This is book one of the series and it kept my attention. I can’t wait to read book two as this one left us on a cliff hanger.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 7, 2025
I lovedddd this book! this is my first book by this author and i truly loved it!
There’s something about an FMC who isn’t fragile or weak and knows exactly what she wants! sign me tf up!
i actually can’t wait for the rest in the series as this author is for sure going on my list to remember!
I have a list of authors i love to check once a month of new book announcements and updates. that list is slowly growing, there’s a spot for important ones i absolutely love and minor ones! ugh.
loved this book though, and it has everything you want in a mafia book. 5/5
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There’s something about an FMC who isn’t fragile or weak and knows exactly what she wants! sign me tf up!
i actually can’t wait for the rest in the series as this author is for sure going on my list to remember!
I have a list of authors i love to check once a month of new book announcements and updates. that list is slowly growing, there’s a spot for important ones i absolutely love and minor ones! ugh.
loved this book though, and it has everything you want in a mafia book. 5/5
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 10, 2025
A Complicated Second Chance -
I was so intrigued hooked on the story with the way it had me guessing and going through a myriad of feelings as I turned the pages. The drama, betrayal, steamy scenes, angst and suspense had me so engrossed in the story, that I couldn’t stop reading once I started, but most importantly my mind was truly blown, as I didn’t see the ending coming at all. You will definitely enjoy reading this gripping story just as much as I did. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was so intrigued hooked on the story with the way it had me guessing and going through a myriad of feelings as I turned the pages. The drama, betrayal, steamy scenes, angst and suspense had me so engrossed in the story, that I couldn’t stop reading once I started, but most importantly my mind was truly blown, as I didn’t see the ending coming at all. You will definitely enjoy reading this gripping story just as much as I did. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 13, 2025
4.5 stars!
Although there were a bunch of grammatical errors, the overall story was good and kept my attention. The story started out fast and then slowed down in the middle. The ending, however, felt rushed and I feel like there could have been just a little more. The story line between Giovanni and Zina was fierce and fueled by passion. A second chance at love with a tragic ending. Overall, I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Hannah Rio!
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Although there were a bunch of grammatical errors, the overall story was good and kept my attention. The story started out fast and then slowed down in the middle. The ending, however, felt rushed and I feel like there could have been just a little more. The story line between Giovanni and Zina was fierce and fueled by passion. A second chance at love with a tragic ending. Overall, I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Hannah Rio!
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 22, 2025
I enjoy a good enemies-to-lovers story, but I didn’t like how the characters shifted back and forth between being enemies and lovers throughout the book. It felt like a constant cycle with Gio. I liked Zina’s character, but she made some poor decisions. I also wish there had been more focus on Gio and his son, whom he hadn’t met for 16 years. Overall, it was a quick read and enjoyable, but it ends on a cliffhanger and doesn’t offer a happily ever after.
I received this book
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received this book
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 26, 2025
DNF at 43%. This book is objectively AWFUL. It isn't just that the editing is sloppy. The whole thing is sloppy. The characters are unlikeable. At times they were almost bipolar. Zina is selfish and Gio is weak. And don't get me started on the names. Guido? Romeo? Finally, the author clearly has done no research on how the mafia realistically works. Gio is a beta, indecisive and weak. Men like him don't rise to lead an organized crime organization, and if they inherit the position, they don't hold onto it for very long.
May 29, 2025
This is my second story by Ms. Rio. I will definitely read more and definitely the next in this series.
I just adore the intensity of the mafia trope!
This is the first, and is Giovanni and Zina's story!
"But this time, I’m not his mistress—I’m his reckoning."
Will Gio get his just deserts?
There is a chemistry that can't be denied! There's proof of that!
Will Zina become Gio's queen?
Very interesting dynamics in this story.
My gosh, the ending! Just you wait and see!
I just adore the intensity of the mafia trope!
This is the first, and is Giovanni and Zina's story!
"But this time, I’m not his mistress—I’m his reckoning."
Will Gio get his just deserts?
There is a chemistry that can't be denied! There's proof of that!
Will Zina become Gio's queen?
Very interesting dynamics in this story.
My gosh, the ending! Just you wait and see!
May 29, 2025
King” by Hannah Rio
-An intense and dark story. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.
Zina is bold, relentless, and deeply flawed—her timing and tactics spark drama.
Giovanni is emotionally conflicted, powerful yet surprisingly weak where it counts.
The mafia setting adds spice and suspense to their twisted second-chance story.
While intense and dramatic, the romance never quite hits the mark emotionally.
I tried but just couldn’t like this story.
-An intense and dark story. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.
Zina is bold, relentless, and deeply flawed—her timing and tactics spark drama.
Giovanni is emotionally conflicted, powerful yet surprisingly weak where it counts.
The mafia setting adds spice and suspense to their twisted second-chance story.
While intense and dramatic, the romance never quite hits the mark emotionally.
I tried but just couldn’t like this story.
June 17, 2025
This is the first book in the Shattered Pieces: A Mafia Romance Series. While the storyline was compelling, I’ve got mixed feelings on this one. It just didn't wow me like many of the other books I've read by Rio. Although it took me a little longer to finish it I did stick through till the end. I guess it just wasn't my cup of tea. I still look forward to reading more from the series, I'm not giving up on it yet.
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.
September 20, 2025
Wow, I was not ready. Giovanni had no clue that the serpent was in the lair. I am flabbergasted. Zina was a really sweet person and she should have told Giovanni the truth. She was scared though, and it shows. I am still in shock because I thought they were gonna have a happy ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Apparently they will not get that happy ending the way we expected. If you have not read this book then you are missing out. Book 2 I’m coming to see you.
September 25, 2025
Wow. King completely swept me off my feet! Hannah Rio delivers a dark, intense, and steamy story that kept me glued to the page from start to finish. The chemistry between the characters is electric, the tension is palpable, and the emotional depth had me fully invested in their journey. I loved how the plot balanced suspense, romance, and raw emotion—Rio knows how to make a story addictive.
If you’re looking for a book that’s thrilling, passionate, and impossible to put down, King is an absolute must-read. I can’t wait to see what Hannah Rio writes next!
If you’re looking for a book that’s thrilling, passionate, and impossible to put down, King is an absolute must-read. I can’t wait to see what Hannah Rio writes next!
May 10, 2025
Ends in a cliffhanger.
I cannot believe the misspellings and mistakes in the grammar in this book. The main characters are not good. How Zina can keep forgiving Giovanni for how he treats her and keeps accusing her of betraying him is beyond me. His sons treat treat her badly, too. Despite how awful they are to her , she wants to help and protect her. The ending left a lot to be desired. I will not be reading the next book.
I cannot believe the misspellings and mistakes in the grammar in this book. The main characters are not good. How Zina can keep forgiving Giovanni for how he treats her and keeps accusing her of betraying him is beyond me. His sons treat treat her badly, too. Despite how awful they are to her , she wants to help and protect her. The ending left a lot to be desired. I will not be reading the next book.
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