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Kastaris Greek Mafia #1
Beneath Scarred Vows
An Arranged Marriage Dark Mafia Romance
He gave me a ring. Then set a man on fire.
When my uncle forced me to marry Ares Kastaris, the ruthless new Don of the Greek mafia, they expected tears. Expected fear.
But I felt nothing.
Because long before this, when my family was taken from me, I stopped feeling anything at all.
And Ares can't bring back what's already buried in ash.
But this powerful, possessive, and dangerous man won't stop until I'm fully his – mind, body, and soul.
Ares doesn't look away from my broken pieces.
He sees every wall I've built and breaks through them, making me feel things I never thought I would.
Now I'm part of his empire.
Claimed by a man I didn't ask for, but who might be the first to ever see me.
The real me.
And when betrayal rips me away from him, we finally understand why we were brought together.
Ares won't negotiate.
He won't stop.
He'll tear the world apart to bring me back into his arms.
This dark, steamy arranged marriage mafia romance
🔥 Possessive, Obsessive Morally Grey Hero🔥 Scarred, Strong Heroine🔥 Forced Arranged Marriage🔥 Touch Her and Die Vibes🔥 Forced Proximity🔥 Indifferent to Love (at first)🔥 Virgin Heroine🔥 Greek Mafia🔥 Standalone with HEABook 1 of The Kastaris Greek Mafia Series, but can be read as a standalone. Contains mature themes, graphic content, and high-heat spicy scenes.
He gave me a ring. Then set a man on fire.
When my uncle forced me to marry Ares Kastaris, the ruthless new Don of the Greek mafia, they expected tears. Expected fear.
But I felt nothing.
Because long before this, when my family was taken from me, I stopped feeling anything at all.
And Ares can't bring back what's already buried in ash.
But this powerful, possessive, and dangerous man won't stop until I'm fully his – mind, body, and soul.
Ares doesn't look away from my broken pieces.
He sees every wall I've built and breaks through them, making me feel things I never thought I would.
Now I'm part of his empire.
Claimed by a man I didn't ask for, but who might be the first to ever see me.
The real me.
And when betrayal rips me away from him, we finally understand why we were brought together.
Ares won't negotiate.
He won't stop.
He'll tear the world apart to bring me back into his arms.
This dark, steamy arranged marriage mafia romance
🔥 Possessive, Obsessive Morally Grey Hero🔥 Scarred, Strong Heroine🔥 Forced Arranged Marriage🔥 Touch Her and Die Vibes🔥 Forced Proximity🔥 Indifferent to Love (at first)🔥 Virgin Heroine🔥 Greek Mafia🔥 Standalone with HEABook 1 of The Kastaris Greek Mafia Series, but can be read as a standalone. Contains mature themes, graphic content, and high-heat spicy scenes.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 22, 2025
About the author
Gabriella Blackrose
16 books22 followersWelcome, dark romance lovers.
I'm Gabriella Blackrose, and I write steamy, high-stakes mafia romances set in an interconnected world. My books are filled with morally gray men who would burn down a city for the woman they love and the fierce, complicated heroines who challenge them at every turn.
If you crave obsession, forbidden tension, touch-her-and-die protectiveness, and slow-burn danger that explodes into heat, you're in the right place.
Fair warning: these stories might ruin you for nice fictional boyfriends forever, but honestly, isn't that half the fun? 😂
When I'm not writing, I'm chatting with readers, untangling new betrayals, and expanding the world where my mafia families rise.
I'm Gabriella Blackrose, and I write steamy, high-stakes mafia romances set in an interconnected world. My books are filled with morally gray men who would burn down a city for the woman they love and the fierce, complicated heroines who challenge them at every turn.
If you crave obsession, forbidden tension, touch-her-and-die protectiveness, and slow-burn danger that explodes into heat, you're in the right place.
Fair warning: these stories might ruin you for nice fictional boyfriends forever, but honestly, isn't that half the fun? 😂
When I'm not writing, I'm chatting with readers, untangling new betrayals, and expanding the world where my mafia families rise.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
November 23, 2025
This was a light mafia trope. Not much was happening, almost becoming boring.
I liked the writing, there was a good balance between conversation and inner-monologue. I liked that Ares was not a manwhore and nothing was mentioned about his past, no crazy ex from the past, no other women, no cheating, no comparing her to other women. It was refreshing for once.
I don't think Ares and Katerina had real chemistry. Their relationship, even though it was a slow burn, developed very fast because in the first part of the book nothing was really happening. That scene with Ares’ sister felt random together with what happened right after.
Ares wasn’t convincing as a don. He need help from ‘friends’ to find out who was behind the shooting. The rest of the book he wasn’t doing anything important either, just telling his brothers to figure it out. And all they gathered were rumours. He supposedly runs a logistic company, but needed Katerina, who did an internship years ago to tell him what was being shipped? Come one now. Also, the whole club thing was cringe. It gave me the creeps.
I also didn’t like their fight towards the end. Katerina had no problem slapping him, but when he reacted she was hurt, demanded an apology and even then she threatened to not forgive him. How about you apology for slapping him too, little brat.
I already know, I don’t like Theo.
The answer is she didn't, because there has been zero interaction between them, except for Calli and even that was shallow.
I liked the writing, there was a good balance between conversation and inner-monologue. I liked that Ares was not a manwhore and nothing was mentioned about his past, no crazy ex from the past, no other women, no cheating, no comparing her to other women. It was refreshing for once.
I don't think Ares and Katerina had real chemistry. Their relationship, even though it was a slow burn, developed very fast because in the first part of the book nothing was really happening. That scene with Ares’ sister felt random together with what happened right after.
Ares wasn’t convincing as a don. He need help from ‘friends’ to find out who was behind the shooting. The rest of the book he wasn’t doing anything important either, just telling his brothers to figure it out. And all they gathered were rumours. He supposedly runs a logistic company, but needed Katerina, who did an internship years ago to tell him what was being shipped? Come one now. Also, the whole club thing was cringe. It gave me the creeps.
I also didn’t like their fight towards the end. Katerina had no problem slapping him, but when he reacted she was hurt, demanded an apology and even then she threatened to not forgive him. How about you apology for slapping him too, little brat.
I already know, I don’t like Theo.
When did Katerina become family to Theo? To any of them? When did she stop being a transaction and start being something we would all die for?
The answer is she didn't, because there has been zero interaction between them, except for Calli and even that was shallow.
January 25, 2026
The book was going so, so well, until we get to the part where Ares puts his hands on Katerina in violence with the goal to hurt her. Sure, emotions were high, and this is a book so I get it's part of the story. Still, not acceptable in my book, but even more unexceptable because it is never really addressed from Ares' POV. I needed to read about him drowning in guilt for choking his wife. I needed him to loath himself. Sure, he apologizes but only after Katerina bring it up and literally asks him to do so. This part of the storyline ruined the book for me.
That being said, if I overlook all that, it's a good read. Ares cares for his wife even though he wont admit to it from early on in their relationship. They have tenderness, spice, and some banter. I loved once Katerina began to open up and feel comfortable around Ares. The part where he makes her truly see herself and realize that she is beautiful and strong, and her scar just adds to it. Of course I love a good touch-her-and-die moment which we get a few of. The epilogue was amazing and hilarious!
This is my first book by this author and I am intrigued. Hopefully the next book doesn't have abuse between the main characters.
That being said, if I overlook all that, it's a good read. Ares cares for his wife even though he wont admit to it from early on in their relationship. They have tenderness, spice, and some banter. I loved once Katerina began to open up and feel comfortable around Ares. The part where he makes her truly see herself and realize that she is beautiful and strong, and her scar just adds to it. Of course I love a good touch-her-and-die moment which we get a few of. The epilogue was amazing and hilarious!
This is my first book by this author and I am intrigued. Hopefully the next book doesn't have abuse between the main characters.
June 30, 2026
Spoiler but also I wish I’d had known this before reading, and not wasted my time.
MMC puts hands on the FMC, like truly strangling her. ZERO groveling after, a weak ass apology and she lets it go!!!! Like GIRL stand up, get off the floor. I’d rather her have shot him than forgiven him like that.
MMC puts hands on the FMC, like truly strangling her. ZERO groveling after, a weak ass apology and she lets it go!!!! Like GIRL stand up, get off the floor. I’d rather her have shot him than forgiven him like that.
March 22, 2026
Started good.
*SPOILERS*
It started really good with a stereotypical mafia romance featuring a fmc acting anything but typical. The mmc also ended up slightly different than the usual monster .
Then she does the typical tstl act of leaving the safe haven on her own in order to do a little joyriding despite knowing it's dangerous. She gets the guard at the gate killed but it doesn't rally phase her. She should have known that would happen, having not only grown up in the life but she also watched her husband of 15 minutes burn a man alive just the day before. I let her ridiculous choice slide with the excuse that it was an opportunity to showcase his softness toward her whereas I usually dnf when I come across this exact scene in other books.
The book was also a bit boring, I skipped much of the business chat, but I stuck with it and it wasn't too bad.
Mostly cliché, and mostly boring, spice leads up to a very confusing bdsm club scene that just came out of nowhere and could have been achieved literally anywhere else with a couple mirrors. And then, voila, after being forced to confront her body in a mirror, her insecurities and body image issues are fixed! If only every woman had a man to command them into improving their mental issues. Ha! No.
Then the ultimate fail. He gets angry after she disagrees with him over business matters and after working "so hard" to gain her trust he blows it all (for me, not for her, she forgives him 2 days later after the bare minimum of apologies and a load of rationalizing) with some very harsh words and he chokes her. She still has a sore throat 2 days later. He doesn't feel bad and only apologizes, lightly, a few days later. He doesn't really regret it.
The main action, where the opinion that got her choked and slammed into the wall is proven correct, is crammed into the last 5% of the book and immediately after that, the 9 months later prologue. Which I skipped. Ares was just too gross and the author really didn't cover domestic violence well with this. Do I believe someone, especially someone raised to be violent, might have a moment where they lose control on their wife? Yes I do. Over something much bigger than what happened in this book perhaps. Do I believe the wife would forgive him? Of course. Happens all the time. I'm not reading fiction for that though. I want the guy to grovel and be wracked with guilt, prove himself and win her back over though. This did not happen in any way. He abused her and then literally the book was over.
Disappointment. Won't be reading any more from this author.
*SPOILERS*
It started really good with a stereotypical mafia romance featuring a fmc acting anything but typical. The mmc also ended up slightly different than the usual monster .
Then she does the typical tstl act of leaving the safe haven on her own in order to do a little joyriding despite knowing it's dangerous. She gets the guard at the gate killed but it doesn't rally phase her. She should have known that would happen, having not only grown up in the life but she also watched her husband of 15 minutes burn a man alive just the day before. I let her ridiculous choice slide with the excuse that it was an opportunity to showcase his softness toward her whereas I usually dnf when I come across this exact scene in other books.
The book was also a bit boring, I skipped much of the business chat, but I stuck with it and it wasn't too bad.
Mostly cliché, and mostly boring, spice leads up to a very confusing bdsm club scene that just came out of nowhere and could have been achieved literally anywhere else with a couple mirrors. And then, voila, after being forced to confront her body in a mirror, her insecurities and body image issues are fixed! If only every woman had a man to command them into improving their mental issues. Ha! No.
Then the ultimate fail. He gets angry after she disagrees with him over business matters and after working "so hard" to gain her trust he blows it all (for me, not for her, she forgives him 2 days later after the bare minimum of apologies and a load of rationalizing) with some very harsh words and he chokes her. She still has a sore throat 2 days later. He doesn't feel bad and only apologizes, lightly, a few days later. He doesn't really regret it.
The main action, where the opinion that got her choked and slammed into the wall is proven correct, is crammed into the last 5% of the book and immediately after that, the 9 months later prologue. Which I skipped. Ares was just too gross and the author really didn't cover domestic violence well with this. Do I believe someone, especially someone raised to be violent, might have a moment where they lose control on their wife? Yes I do. Over something much bigger than what happened in this book perhaps. Do I believe the wife would forgive him? Of course. Happens all the time. I'm not reading fiction for that though. I want the guy to grovel and be wracked with guilt, prove himself and win her back over though. This did not happen in any way. He abused her and then literally the book was over.
Disappointment. Won't be reading any more from this author.
June 13, 2026
Ares and Katerina’s story was a compelling and emotionally engaging romance that held my attention from beginning to end. Their relationship developed in a way that felt both intense and rewarding, and it was fascinating to watch their connection deepen throughout the novel. Ares’s determination to protect Katerina demonstrated the depth of his feelings and added significant emotional weight to their journey.
Katerina’s character was particularly impactful. The loss of her family and the hardships she endured could easily have defined her, yet she consistently displayed remarkable strength and resilience. One of her most admirable qualities was her willingness to stand up to Ares. From the outset, she challenged him and remained steadfast in her convictions, which made her a strong and memorable heroine.
Initially, I found Ares difficult to connect with because of the way he treated Katerina. However, as the story progressed and more of his background was revealed, his actions became easier to understand. His loyalty and devotion to his family were especially noteworthy, particularly in light of the trauma surrounding his father’s fate. The responsibility he felt for protecting those he cared about added depth and complexity to his character.
The supporting cast also contributed greatly to the story. Theo, Dimitri, and Calli brought warmth, humor, and additional emotional depth, and their family dynamic enriched the overall narrative.
One of the most meaningful aspects of the romance was Ares’s ability to see beyond Katerina’s physical scars. The scar she carried from the fire that claimed her family never diminished his feelings for her. His acceptance and unwavering affection underscored the sincerity of their relationship and made their connection even more compelling.
Another memorable moment was Katerina’s willingness to risk her own safety to save Calli. This act highlighted her courage and selflessness, while Ares’s care for her afterward further emphasized the strength of his love and devotion.
Sebastian served as an effective antagonist, and his treatment of Katerina made him easy to dislike. His presence created significant tension throughout the story, and it was satisfying to see justice ultimately prevail. I also appreciated Ares’s determination to protect and defend those he loved.
I enjoyed learning about Katerina’s passion for sketching, as it added another dimension to her character and provided insight into how she coped with her experiences.
The chemistry between Ares and Katerina was strong and believable. Their emotional bond complemented their physical attraction, creating a romance that felt both passionate and meaningful.
The conclusion was highly satisfying. Seeing Ares rescue Katerina and witnessing them achieve the happiness they had fought so hard for provided a rewarding ending. The revelation that they were expecting a child added an uplifting final touch to their story.
Overall, this was an emotional, romantic, and action-filled novel that explored themes of love, family, healing, and redemption. Ares and Katerina’s journey was both engaging and memorable, and it left me eager to continue the series and read more from this talented author.
Katerina’s character was particularly impactful. The loss of her family and the hardships she endured could easily have defined her, yet she consistently displayed remarkable strength and resilience. One of her most admirable qualities was her willingness to stand up to Ares. From the outset, she challenged him and remained steadfast in her convictions, which made her a strong and memorable heroine.
Initially, I found Ares difficult to connect with because of the way he treated Katerina. However, as the story progressed and more of his background was revealed, his actions became easier to understand. His loyalty and devotion to his family were especially noteworthy, particularly in light of the trauma surrounding his father’s fate. The responsibility he felt for protecting those he cared about added depth and complexity to his character.
The supporting cast also contributed greatly to the story. Theo, Dimitri, and Calli brought warmth, humor, and additional emotional depth, and their family dynamic enriched the overall narrative.
One of the most meaningful aspects of the romance was Ares’s ability to see beyond Katerina’s physical scars. The scar she carried from the fire that claimed her family never diminished his feelings for her. His acceptance and unwavering affection underscored the sincerity of their relationship and made their connection even more compelling.
Another memorable moment was Katerina’s willingness to risk her own safety to save Calli. This act highlighted her courage and selflessness, while Ares’s care for her afterward further emphasized the strength of his love and devotion.
Sebastian served as an effective antagonist, and his treatment of Katerina made him easy to dislike. His presence created significant tension throughout the story, and it was satisfying to see justice ultimately prevail. I also appreciated Ares’s determination to protect and defend those he loved.
I enjoyed learning about Katerina’s passion for sketching, as it added another dimension to her character and provided insight into how she coped with her experiences.
The chemistry between Ares and Katerina was strong and believable. Their emotional bond complemented their physical attraction, creating a romance that felt both passionate and meaningful.
The conclusion was highly satisfying. Seeing Ares rescue Katerina and witnessing them achieve the happiness they had fought so hard for provided a rewarding ending. The revelation that they were expecting a child added an uplifting final touch to their story.
Overall, this was an emotional, romantic, and action-filled novel that explored themes of love, family, healing, and redemption. Ares and Katerina’s journey was both engaging and memorable, and it left me eager to continue the series and read more from this talented author.
June 20, 2026
Ares and Katerina. This was a decent book. I feel like not a lot happened, it was a lot of Katerina coming out of her shell, which was nice to see but I didn’t feel like their chemistry was very palpable. Ares was difficult to like in the beginning, he was cold and unnecessarily callous towards Kat, and for no reason. They weren’t enemies. Her uncle was his ally and the marriage benefited him. So it felt more like he was just asserting dominance for the sake of it.
Both MCs were written sort of immature and callous. When Kat sneaks out to get a little freedom and breathe for once, something I was all for, it gets the guard who believed her lie killed by Ares. And I was expecting big regret and conflict about it but she sort of shrugs, a calls him disgusting and walks out. It was so cold and removed from empathy that it was slightly jarring. I think that guard getting killed had more emotional impact on me than much of the book lol.
I liked the development of their dynamic, though it felt a bit forced, but I warmed to both MCs eventually. But the sex club was a weird scene, and could have been just as effective at home. It felt like the author was trying to then up the “dark factor” as well as introduce Theo and his proclivities.
The conflict scene in Ares’ office in the final third really bothered me. Kat does slap him when he says some particularly mean things during their disagreement, but then he retaliates by putting his hands around her throat and choking her. She never loses consciousness, but she can’t breathe for several seconds and it’s stated multiple times her throat is sore days later. It was such a jarring shift from what they’d been building between them, but what was worse was Ares’ actions afterwards. We even get his POV, and there’s no remorse or shame. When he finally speaks to her again 2 days later, he’s cold, closed off and actually says “I’m not here to apologize.” Instead he forces her to set up a meeting with the person she was defending in the argument. It was gross and frankly felt out of the character. She does make him sort of apologize and threatens him if he ever touches her like that again, but the whole thing felt awkward, and his “remorse and apology” felt forced. When things go south at the meeting and Kat is taken, all is basically forgotten as he is desperate to save her and she’s desperate to be saved. They gloss over the whole incident.
I don’t know, I’m all for morally gray but that kind of lapse in character from an MC towards the MFC with no remorse or shame behind it? Turned me off. We blink and it’s 9 months later in the epilogue.
3⭐️ for being good writing and entertaining, but the MCs both needed a little work.
Both MCs were written sort of immature and callous. When Kat sneaks out to get a little freedom and breathe for once, something I was all for, it gets the guard who believed her lie killed by Ares. And I was expecting big regret and conflict about it but she sort of shrugs, a calls him disgusting and walks out. It was so cold and removed from empathy that it was slightly jarring. I think that guard getting killed had more emotional impact on me than much of the book lol.
I liked the development of their dynamic, though it felt a bit forced, but I warmed to both MCs eventually. But the sex club was a weird scene, and could have been just as effective at home. It felt like the author was trying to then up the “dark factor” as well as introduce Theo and his proclivities.
The conflict scene in Ares’ office in the final third really bothered me. Kat does slap him when he says some particularly mean things during their disagreement, but then he retaliates by putting his hands around her throat and choking her. She never loses consciousness, but she can’t breathe for several seconds and it’s stated multiple times her throat is sore days later. It was such a jarring shift from what they’d been building between them, but what was worse was Ares’ actions afterwards. We even get his POV, and there’s no remorse or shame. When he finally speaks to her again 2 days later, he’s cold, closed off and actually says “I’m not here to apologize.” Instead he forces her to set up a meeting with the person she was defending in the argument. It was gross and frankly felt out of the character. She does make him sort of apologize and threatens him if he ever touches her like that again, but the whole thing felt awkward, and his “remorse and apology” felt forced. When things go south at the meeting and Kat is taken, all is basically forgotten as he is desperate to save her and she’s desperate to be saved. They gloss over the whole incident.
I don’t know, I’m all for morally gray but that kind of lapse in character from an MC towards the MFC with no remorse or shame behind it? Turned me off. We blink and it’s 9 months later in the epilogue.
3⭐️ for being good writing and entertaining, but the MCs both needed a little work.
March 2, 2026
BENEATH SCARRED VOWS
THE KASTARIS GREEK MAFIA SERIES BOOK 1
GABRIELLA BLACKROSE
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Rating System (as of 8/14/2025):
⭐: It was a struggle to read. I almost DNF
⭐⭐: This could have been so much better.
⭐⭐⭐: Good/Average
⭐⭐⭐⭐: Great book. I will probably reread it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: I absolutely loved this book.
***********************************************************************
Triggers:
🚩Off Page Death of Parents
🚩Violence
🚩Kidnapping
Tropes:
💕MF Romance
💕Arranged Marriage
💕MF Romance
💕Hate to Love
💕Touch Her and Die
💕Part of a Series (Book 1)
**********************************************************************
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
Spice Level Rating System (as of 9/4/25)
🔥: Clean. Handholding. Kissing.
🔥🔥: Non-Descriptive/Implied on Page Sex
🔥🔥🔥: Hot-Descriptive on Page Sex
🔥🔥🔥🔥: So Hot—Do Not Read in Public
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥: Oh My-BDSM. Blood Play. Smut.
************************************************************************
Quote:
He gave me a ring. Then set a man on fire.
Summary:
As a child, the FMC survived a fire that claimed the lives of her entire family. She has been living with her uncle. FMC has survived by having little to no emotions. FMC and MMC are brought together in an arranged marriage. FMC is not what the MMC expected. He makes it his mission to unthaw this ice queen. HEA.
Review:
This is the first book I have read by this author. The premise of the book was good. I found myself wanting to see this couple together. However, it just all happened to fast. The pacing of the story felt off to me. I wanted the story to be flushed out a bit more. Having said that the story is ok.
Mafia Romance Authors Recommendations:
Neva Altaj
T J Maguire
Maggie Cole
Luna Mason
Isa Oliver
Cora Reilly
Vaya Thorn
BIBLIODARLING | BOOKISH LIFE, TBRs & READING CHALLENGES GROUP (GOODREADS)
https://www.goodreads.com/group/invit...
*****************************************************************************
FOLLOW ME ON:
INSTAGRAM📢
https://www.instagram.com/bibliodarling/
SUBSTACK📢 https://open.substack.com/pub/mterron...
TIKTOK📢
https://www.tiktok.com/@bibliodarling...
WATTPAD📢
BiblioDarling (@BiblioDarling) - Wattpad
INKITT📢
https://inkitt.com/BiblioDarling
THE KASTARIS GREEK MAFIA SERIES BOOK 1
GABRIELLA BLACKROSE
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Rating System (as of 8/14/2025):
⭐: It was a struggle to read. I almost DNF
⭐⭐: This could have been so much better.
⭐⭐⭐: Good/Average
⭐⭐⭐⭐: Great book. I will probably reread it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: I absolutely loved this book.
***********************************************************************
Triggers:
🚩Off Page Death of Parents
🚩Violence
🚩Kidnapping
Tropes:
💕MF Romance
💕Arranged Marriage
💕MF Romance
💕Hate to Love
💕Touch Her and Die
💕Part of a Series (Book 1)
**********************************************************************
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
Spice Level Rating System (as of 9/4/25)
🔥: Clean. Handholding. Kissing.
🔥🔥: Non-Descriptive/Implied on Page Sex
🔥🔥🔥: Hot-Descriptive on Page Sex
🔥🔥🔥🔥: So Hot—Do Not Read in Public
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥: Oh My-BDSM. Blood Play. Smut.
************************************************************************
Quote:
He gave me a ring. Then set a man on fire.
Summary:
As a child, the FMC survived a fire that claimed the lives of her entire family. She has been living with her uncle. FMC has survived by having little to no emotions. FMC and MMC are brought together in an arranged marriage. FMC is not what the MMC expected. He makes it his mission to unthaw this ice queen. HEA.
Review:
This is the first book I have read by this author. The premise of the book was good. I found myself wanting to see this couple together. However, it just all happened to fast. The pacing of the story felt off to me. I wanted the story to be flushed out a bit more. Having said that the story is ok.
Mafia Romance Authors Recommendations:
Neva Altaj
T J Maguire
Maggie Cole
Luna Mason
Isa Oliver
Cora Reilly
Vaya Thorn
BIBLIODARLING | BOOKISH LIFE, TBRs & READING CHALLENGES GROUP (GOODREADS)
https://www.goodreads.com/group/invit...
*****************************************************************************
FOLLOW ME ON:
INSTAGRAM📢
https://www.instagram.com/bibliodarling/
SUBSTACK📢 https://open.substack.com/pub/mterron...
TIKTOK📢
https://www.tiktok.com/@bibliodarling...
WATTPAD📢
BiblioDarling (@BiblioDarling) - Wattpad
INKITT📢
https://inkitt.com/BiblioDarling
April 12, 2026
Beneath Scarred Vows
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I look forward to reading more. The story is well written and easy to understand. It does have a few grammatical errors, but the quality of the story itself is captivating.
Our MFC, Katerina, is used by her uncle as a bargaining chip to form an alliance. Understandably she’s unhappy and makes it known the first 25% of the book by being defiant anywhere she can. Her behavior gets old quickly, but her attitude changes once she realizes that Ares is nothing like her uncle or the life she previously lived.
The MMC, Ares, is closed off but not unkind to Katerina. He’s recently become Don after the death of his father and, because of the circumstances surrounding his father’s death, is very distant and paranoid. He places all the blame and responsibility on himself to keep the family safe.
The book focuses on seeing the two broken characters (her family died in a house fire and she’s the sole survivor and his father was murdered) come together to help each other heal and becoming stronger. They have some hiccups along the way, but ultimately it’s a very sweet story. There’s a disagreement towards the end, but no third act breakup.
Although this couple’s book can be read as a standalone, it is somewhat of a cliffhanger as the overall plot isn’t resolved in this book. The epilogue is used to set up the readers of the following book. I highly recommend reading them in order to understand the overlying plot for the family.
NO CHEATING.
Spice is 2/5
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I look forward to reading more. The story is well written and easy to understand. It does have a few grammatical errors, but the quality of the story itself is captivating.
Our MFC, Katerina, is used by her uncle as a bargaining chip to form an alliance. Understandably she’s unhappy and makes it known the first 25% of the book by being defiant anywhere she can. Her behavior gets old quickly, but her attitude changes once she realizes that Ares is nothing like her uncle or the life she previously lived.
The MMC, Ares, is closed off but not unkind to Katerina. He’s recently become Don after the death of his father and, because of the circumstances surrounding his father’s death, is very distant and paranoid. He places all the blame and responsibility on himself to keep the family safe.
The book focuses on seeing the two broken characters (her family died in a house fire and she’s the sole survivor and his father was murdered) come together to help each other heal and becoming stronger. They have some hiccups along the way, but ultimately it’s a very sweet story. There’s a disagreement towards the end, but no third act breakup.
Although this couple’s book can be read as a standalone, it is somewhat of a cliffhanger as the overall plot isn’t resolved in this book. The epilogue is used to set up the readers of the following book. I highly recommend reading them in order to understand the overlying plot for the family.
NO CHEATING.
Spice is 2/5
September 20, 2026
I want to rate this higher, I just can’t!
I thought this was a solid read. Katerina and Ares had great chemistry and I really enjoyed their relationship…and then he put his hands on her.
Look, she slapped him first and that was wrong, too. But the man was so blinded by his need for revenge he refused to listen to his wife, who he had thought so highly of that he brought her into the business. When she went back on him, he disrespected her verbally, she slapped him, and he started choking her out.
It seemed so out of the blue for his character and how he treated Katerina throughout the rest of the book. Honestly, I was disgusted. And his apology was kind of bullshit. There was no groveling time because she gets kidnapped and then once she’s saved, all their problems are over. No????
There were quite a few noticeable grammar issues but I was fine with them because I was really enjoying the book, but that scene just brought my mood wayyyy down.
I think this is a good read but him putting hands on her really put a damper on the book and I just can’t give a higher rating because of it.
I thought this was a solid read. Katerina and Ares had great chemistry and I really enjoyed their relationship…and then he put his hands on her.
Look, she slapped him first and that was wrong, too. But the man was so blinded by his need for revenge he refused to listen to his wife, who he had thought so highly of that he brought her into the business. When she went back on him, he disrespected her verbally, she slapped him, and he started choking her out.
It seemed so out of the blue for his character and how he treated Katerina throughout the rest of the book. Honestly, I was disgusted. And his apology was kind of bullshit. There was no groveling time because she gets kidnapped and then once she’s saved, all their problems are over. No????
There were quite a few noticeable grammar issues but I was fine with them because I was really enjoying the book, but that scene just brought my mood wayyyy down.
I think this is a good read but him putting hands on her really put a damper on the book and I just can’t give a higher rating because of it.
June 14, 2026
I love the gripping emotions of the characters!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars
I absolutely loved this book! My usual genre is much darker—typically erotic horror—so this isn’t the type of book I normally gravitate toward. However, I am so glad I gave it a chance.
What truly captured me was the emotion. The author did an incredible job creating characters I genuinely cared about. I especially loved the dynamic between Ares and Katarina. They were fun, engaging, and had great chemistry that kept me turning the pages.
While the story does contain some dark elements, it wasn’t as dark as my typical reads. Instead, it offered a wonderful balance of romance, emotion, tension, and character development. I found myself completely invested in their journey and rooting for them every step of the way.
If you’re looking for a story with heart, memorable characters, and a romance that feels genuine, I highly recommend this book. I’m so happy I discovered it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars
I absolutely loved this book! My usual genre is much darker—typically erotic horror—so this isn’t the type of book I normally gravitate toward. However, I am so glad I gave it a chance.
What truly captured me was the emotion. The author did an incredible job creating characters I genuinely cared about. I especially loved the dynamic between Ares and Katarina. They were fun, engaging, and had great chemistry that kept me turning the pages.
While the story does contain some dark elements, it wasn’t as dark as my typical reads. Instead, it offered a wonderful balance of romance, emotion, tension, and character development. I found myself completely invested in their journey and rooting for them every step of the way.
If you’re looking for a story with heart, memorable characters, and a romance that feels genuine, I highly recommend this book. I’m so happy I discovered it!
July 28, 2026
The story is okay if you’re looking for a fast and light Mafia reading. Ares and Katerina’s journey truly went from strangers-to-lovers and then they went back to enemies for a while since Ares was paranoid and didn’t know whether Katerina was truly on his side.
One thing I must slightly disagree was how fast Katerina’s change went. She went from someone who literally had no feelings and was lifeless, into someone who was suddenly brave, energetic and sarcastic in a span of few pages. I guess it should make sense since the story’s plot was fast but I couldn’t help but imagine if would be better if she were to stay lifeless for a few more chapters since she was told to have a very tragic backstory (family got burned and she has a big scar on her right).
Nonetheless, I love Ares and the way he was kind to Katerina (in his own way). He wasn’t ignorant like the usual Mafia men I read and he was quite respective towards Katerina.
One thing I must slightly disagree was how fast Katerina’s change went. She went from someone who literally had no feelings and was lifeless, into someone who was suddenly brave, energetic and sarcastic in a span of few pages. I guess it should make sense since the story’s plot was fast but I couldn’t help but imagine if would be better if she were to stay lifeless for a few more chapters since she was told to have a very tragic backstory (family got burned and she has a big scar on her right).
Nonetheless, I love Ares and the way he was kind to Katerina (in his own way). He wasn’t ignorant like the usual Mafia men I read and he was quite respective towards Katerina.
September 10, 2026
The writing isn't horrible, grammatically and stylistically. As for plotting and character development, the only reason for this book seems to be to set readers up for other books. How did I miss that this is part of a ridiculously long series and that it has a cliffhanger ending? FMC holds information that could have been extracted had MMC not killed the wife's kidnapper. Then, for almost a year, the Don just forgets about the info so that one brother can conveniently get the next book. Guess what? NOT interested. At the part of the book when MMC puts his hands on FMC (strangling her in anger for disagreeing with him) in a violent, abusive, near-deadly manner, I was out. There is zero coming back from that. ZERO. There are no characters this writer could ever create that could allow me to trust her writing if she thinks a wife abuser is an admirable hero. I won't be wasting any time with this author in the future.
August 3, 2026
Katerina and Ares
Katerina started out as a cold fish. But she was just indifferent. In survival mode. And Ares worked to get her to feel something. It worked out and she thawed. He falls in love. They both have past trauma and together they handle it and grow together. That’s what I like most about the plot. It takes work to get past some issues.
There is a big fight where Ares gets physically and verbally violent with Katerina by putting his hand on her which leads to the 3rd act breakup. I think he should’ve groveled more. She should not have been so easy to forgive. They work it out and get their HEA.
But a subplot is unresolved. He still didn’t know who killed his father, who actually wanted Katerina dead and who is the big bad villain behind everything. So while it isn’t a cliffhanger, it did lead to Theo’s book next.
Katerina started out as a cold fish. But she was just indifferent. In survival mode. And Ares worked to get her to feel something. It worked out and she thawed. He falls in love. They both have past trauma and together they handle it and grow together. That’s what I like most about the plot. It takes work to get past some issues.
There is a big fight where Ares gets physically and verbally violent with Katerina by putting his hand on her which leads to the 3rd act breakup. I think he should’ve groveled more. She should not have been so easy to forgive. They work it out and get their HEA.
But a subplot is unresolved. He still didn’t know who killed his father, who actually wanted Katerina dead and who is the big bad villain behind everything. So while it isn’t a cliffhanger, it did lead to Theo’s book next.
September 24, 2026
Ares is the newly crowned Don of the Greek mafia in Chicago and a portion of Greece. When he’s offered a bride to cement an alliance he takes her.
Katarina is the bride. Her parents and brother were killed in a house fire she barely survived. When her not-so-beloved uncle marries her off she couldn’t care less. What is one prison when compared with another?
Only they realize that they have more in common than they realize.
This story lacked depth in the plot. Katarina goes from nearly catatonic in her emotional reactions to things to caring with no real reason. She just woke up one day and thought how nice this new family was and maybe she should give them a try. Ares suddenly is infatuated with his wife and again, no real reason why.
Oh, and he strangles her but it’s all ok because she got kidnapped and he realizes he can’t live without her. He barely even apologized. Just nope.
The story needs more editing and proofreading.
Katarina is the bride. Her parents and brother were killed in a house fire she barely survived. When her not-so-beloved uncle marries her off she couldn’t care less. What is one prison when compared with another?
Only they realize that they have more in common than they realize.
This story lacked depth in the plot. Katarina goes from nearly catatonic in her emotional reactions to things to caring with no real reason. She just woke up one day and thought how nice this new family was and maybe she should give them a try. Ares suddenly is infatuated with his wife and again, no real reason why.
Oh, and he strangles her but it’s all ok because she got kidnapped and he realizes he can’t live without her. He barely even apologized. Just nope.
The story needs more editing and proofreading.
November 24, 2025
I enjoyed Katerina’s character immensely in this book, especially in the beginning. I like when female characters aren’t immediately falling over and forgetting themselves as soon as they meet a handsome MMC or just brushing to the side their feelings about the situation they may find themselves in, especially where it is not the female’s choice. I want their anger and strength to remain for longer than it takes them to get to a bedroom in these types of stories.
Katerina wasn’t giving an inch, she wasn’t giving the emotional response that a man expected her to simply because she is a woman. I even think Katerina could have kept that distance for a bit longer, but at least it was present here versus most of what you see in similar stories of this genre.
Katerina wasn’t giving an inch, she wasn’t giving the emotional response that a man expected her to simply because she is a woman. I even think Katerina could have kept that distance for a bit longer, but at least it was present here versus most of what you see in similar stories of this genre.
September 22, 2025
5 ⭐️ Read
I loved the romance between Ares and Katerina!!!
And I loved how he protected her in this book.
I felt sad for Katerina and what happened to her family.
At first I didn't like Ares and what he did to Katerina but getting into the book I liked Ares.
I liked Ares brothers Theo and Dimitri and sister Calli.
And I loved how strong Katerina was and also fought against Ares in the beginning of this book and the end too.
Ares also feels like he has to protect his family because of what happened to his dad. And I loved the things that Ares did for Katerina in this book. I loved how protective Ares was over Katerina. And I loved how they fell in this book. This was an spicy read too. And he loved her even though she had a scar from the fire that took her family. And I loved how Katerina saved Ares's sister Calli and getting hurt because of it and Ares took care of her.
And I loved that he took care of the bad people that hurt his family. And I hated the Sebastian in this book and what he did to Katerina . I loved that Katerina love to sketch in this book. And I loved that Ares saved Katerina at the end of the book and they had an happy ending together and that they were having an baby at the end of this book and I can't wait to read other books in this series and by this author.
I loved the romance between Ares and Katerina!!!
And I loved how he protected her in this book.
I felt sad for Katerina and what happened to her family.
At first I didn't like Ares and what he did to Katerina but getting into the book I liked Ares.
I liked Ares brothers Theo and Dimitri and sister Calli.
And I loved how strong Katerina was and also fought against Ares in the beginning of this book and the end too.
Ares also feels like he has to protect his family because of what happened to his dad. And I loved the things that Ares did for Katerina in this book. I loved how protective Ares was over Katerina. And I loved how they fell in this book. This was an spicy read too. And he loved her even though she had a scar from the fire that took her family. And I loved how Katerina saved Ares's sister Calli and getting hurt because of it and Ares took care of her.
And I loved that he took care of the bad people that hurt his family. And I hated the Sebastian in this book and what he did to Katerina . I loved that Katerina love to sketch in this book. And I loved that Ares saved Katerina at the end of the book and they had an happy ending together and that they were having an baby at the end of this book and I can't wait to read other books in this series and by this author.
February 13, 2026
It was OK; better than some Mafia stories I've read lately. The beginning was very good but the rest of the story lacked the depth. The writing became superficial. He rescues her in the last chapter and then we are bounced to an epilogue 9 months later. You can guess why it's 9 months. This story basically ends on a cliffhanger if you care about who is behind all the Mafia action, plus it's a setup for the next story. I probably won't read more.
The Mafia action is good although I wish more connection had been made between what happens between Greece and Chicago (of all places).
The pace is slow. No idea why a BDSM club was introduced except as a setup for Theo's story.
The Mafia action is good although I wish more connection had been made between what happens between Greece and Chicago (of all places).
The pace is slow. No idea why a BDSM club was introduced except as a setup for Theo's story.
Read
March 22, 2026Ok - first in the series, 3 brothers, 1 sister. she’s supposed to be the emotionless FMC and he the hard cold MMC, that lasted maybe 10% in, by 40% open hearts, then they had a fight at about 75% but the underlying mafia mystery drama is what actually runs predominantly through the story, not really the conflict in the relationship. I had almost DNF at about 30%, but with some skipping made it to the end. I wouldn’t read again, but I’m considering the other books in the series
I know these stories are formulaic, but I prefer if the relationship/emotional conflict and the MCs are darker, stronger, more substantial part of the story, not the mystery.
I know these stories are formulaic, but I prefer if the relationship/emotional conflict and the MCs are darker, stronger, more substantial part of the story, not the mystery.
November 16, 2025
The book starts off strong, promising a gripping mafia romance with two protagonists who appear confident and sharp-witted. Their chemistry during the arranged-marriage setup is intriguing and sets high expectations. Unfortunately, as the story progresses, both characters begin to feel oddly inconsistent—almost like completely different people from the ones introduced at the start. This shift weakens the emotional impact and makes the later chapters less engaging. Still, the premise has potential, and fans of the genre may enjoy it despite the uneven character development
March 31, 2026
Fast Read and Was Just Okay
Got through this pretty fast and it was okay. I found some parts a bit unbelievable - like she’s a virgin and has been kept sheltered but gives a good enough bj to get her husband off. She’s inexperienced in sex but her husband takes her to a sex club for some self discovery. Talk about jumping in head first. It’s a typical mafia story and won’t stand out for me.
Got through this pretty fast and it was okay. I found some parts a bit unbelievable - like she’s a virgin and has been kept sheltered but gives a good enough bj to get her husband off. She’s inexperienced in sex but her husband takes her to a sex club for some self discovery. Talk about jumping in head first. It’s a typical mafia story and won’t stand out for me.
April 21, 2026
this book had no business hiding from me after such a long time because wth i actually resonated with the fc abt survival. I have to be honest this book had me in a chokehold and i absolutely devoured each and every word miss gabriella wrote because idc what anyone says Ares is the man, i dont think some of yall understand the works of the mafia because he was pretty upfront and interacting with katerina. AND Katerina i love your soul, she is so fiery
July 4, 2026
Enjoyed this immensely
I enjoyed this book very much. I loved that Ares and Katerina found their footing right away and we're together the entire book. Of course there was one hiccup that was close to a third act breakup, which I hate and a lot of times won't finish the book because of it.
Thankfully this was a very short sort of breakup, really just a huge fight, so I was able to hang on and finish the book.
It was well worth it and I'm looking forward to the next book!
I enjoyed this book very much. I loved that Ares and Katerina found their footing right away and we're together the entire book. Of course there was one hiccup that was close to a third act breakup, which I hate and a lot of times won't finish the book because of it.
Thankfully this was a very short sort of breakup, really just a huge fight, so I was able to hang on and finish the book.
It was well worth it and I'm looking forward to the next book!
May 22, 2025
Pretty good
I like the storyline and the characters. The descriptive writing pulled you in and made you feel like you were there. Although I thought 27 was too old for this situation that started at 14 it lost some of its realism with that long time span. I would recommend this book.
I like the storyline and the characters. The descriptive writing pulled you in and made you feel like you were there. Although I thought 27 was too old for this situation that started at 14 it lost some of its realism with that long time span. I would recommend this book.
January 25, 2026
The writing in this book was really good. I did enjoy Katerina’s character a lot .. I still feel like I needed more tho.. like I needed a little more glimpse into Katerina’s father and Ares father life .. I needed more build up for Dmitri’s and Theo’s story. I don’t have anything bad to say about the book but nothing great to say about it either .
March 24, 2026
Beneath Scarred Vows : An Arranged Marriage Dark Mafia Romance (The Master's Greek Mafia Series Book
This book was absolutely delish and I didn't find anything dangerous about it, that we were warned about before reading it content. It was so exciting at times, kept the story interesting from the beginning. Romance bloom right away from the characters in this series. ENJOY!!
This book was absolutely delish and I didn't find anything dangerous about it, that we were warned about before reading it content. It was so exciting at times, kept the story interesting from the beginning. Romance bloom right away from the characters in this series. ENJOY!!
April 11, 2026
it was ok and i love the strong and brave female lead EXCEPT i still cant forget how the ml actually ch0ked her like in actual not spicy way like wtf bro??? anyway lowkey imagine them as ates and mercan lol
also!!! can we be creative with names next?? like katherina?? elena??? what next?? amara?? tatia?? like lowkey tired of all of these tvd wannabe character
also!!! can we be creative with names next?? like katherina?? elena??? what next?? amara?? tatia?? like lowkey tired of all of these tvd wannabe character
April 19, 2026
A decent start
I thought this was a good book overall and a decent start to a series. I think there was a lot of typical mafia story components that made it somewhat predictable. But compelling enough that I will be reading the next book. While it can be read as a stand alone as far as the MMC & FMC there is the an overall storyline that continues.
I thought this was a good book overall and a decent start to a series. I think there was a lot of typical mafia story components that made it somewhat predictable. But compelling enough that I will be reading the next book. While it can be read as a stand alone as far as the MMC & FMC there is the an overall storyline that continues.
May 16, 2026
loved it
The characters, the plot, the suspense was really well done! I didn’t want to pause my reading at all, Ares and Katerina definitely pushed and pulled each other to healing in many ways. They truly became each other’s strength and weakness. At the end though, this whole book was beautifully done!
The characters, the plot, the suspense was really well done! I didn’t want to pause my reading at all, Ares and Katerina definitely pushed and pulled each other to healing in many ways. They truly became each other’s strength and weakness. At the end though, this whole book was beautifully done!
July 9, 2026
i liked this! it starts off as a forced/arranged marriage but they quickly grow to like each other and Ares helps Katerina with the trauma she endured from losing her family. We get an HEA for the main couple but it felt a bit abrupt and the over arching story is unfinished
-forced/arranged marriage
-greek mafia
-possessive/obsessive MMC
-touch her and die
-forced proximity
-virgin FMC
-forced/arranged marriage
-greek mafia
-possessive/obsessive MMC
-touch her and die
-forced proximity
-virgin FMC
July 21, 2026
Let me just say that I loved everything about this book. Ares is a Don, leader, protector but a great brother. Then we have Katerina who lost her family at just 14 and scarred. She’s strong even though she doesn’t believe it. These two together was perfection. They both helped each other. Recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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