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Secret Confession
He was never meant to touch her. Now he’ll never let her go.
When Courtney receives a terrifying threat, her brother insists she hide in the one place no one would dare come near—Morelli Mansion. She never expects to be under the watchful eye of Maximus Morelli.
Feared. Revered. Untouchable.
He’s her brother’s boss. Thirty-two years older, and carved from danger itself.
He’s also the only man who’s ever made her truly feel.
Maximus knows he should keep his distance. She’s too innocent. Too off-limits.
But when she breaks his rules and steps into his world, he doesn’t just want her—he needs her.
What begins as protection quickly spirals into something far more dangerous—something raw and consuming.
She offers him her trust, her body, her firsts.
He offers her a single, brutal If she stays, she’s his.
Because Maximus doesn’t love like a gentleman. He claims. He owns.
And once he decides she’s his, nothing will stop him from keeping her.
He’ll make her feel safe. Then he’ll make her his—no matter what it costs.
AUTHOR NOTE
Secret Confession is a dark, addictive prequel to the Rivals of Blackthorn series. Set before Prized Possession, this standalone novella features a possessive mafia antihero, a virgin heroine, forced proximity, and a sizzling Daddy/protection dynamic. Includes spicy scenes, and dark themes; check content warnings.
While Secret Confession can be read on its own, the characters do crossover with the other books in the series. If you want to binge the series, this is the recommended reading
Secret ConfessionPrized PossessionMutual Obsession
The Rivals of Blackthorn Series is set in Emma Luna's Beautifully Brutal World, and whilst you don't have to read the books in the Beautifully Brutal series before reading the Rivals of Blackthorn, there are characters that crossover, and it may contain minor spoilers. If you'd like to read in order, start with Black Wedding in The Beautifully Brutal Series first.
When Courtney receives a terrifying threat, her brother insists she hide in the one place no one would dare come near—Morelli Mansion. She never expects to be under the watchful eye of Maximus Morelli.
Feared. Revered. Untouchable.
He’s her brother’s boss. Thirty-two years older, and carved from danger itself.
He’s also the only man who’s ever made her truly feel.
Maximus knows he should keep his distance. She’s too innocent. Too off-limits.
But when she breaks his rules and steps into his world, he doesn’t just want her—he needs her.
What begins as protection quickly spirals into something far more dangerous—something raw and consuming.
She offers him her trust, her body, her firsts.
He offers her a single, brutal If she stays, she’s his.
Because Maximus doesn’t love like a gentleman. He claims. He owns.
And once he decides she’s his, nothing will stop him from keeping her.
He’ll make her feel safe. Then he’ll make her his—no matter what it costs.
AUTHOR NOTE
Secret Confession is a dark, addictive prequel to the Rivals of Blackthorn series. Set before Prized Possession, this standalone novella features a possessive mafia antihero, a virgin heroine, forced proximity, and a sizzling Daddy/protection dynamic. Includes spicy scenes, and dark themes; check content warnings.
While Secret Confession can be read on its own, the characters do crossover with the other books in the series. If you want to binge the series, this is the recommended reading
Secret ConfessionPrized PossessionMutual Obsession
The Rivals of Blackthorn Series is set in Emma Luna's Beautifully Brutal World, and whilst you don't have to read the books in the Beautifully Brutal series before reading the Rivals of Blackthorn, there are characters that crossover, and it may contain minor spoilers. If you'd like to read in order, start with Black Wedding in The Beautifully Brutal Series first.
- GenresDark Romance
134 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2025
7 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 5, 2025
If reading a book could result in pregnancy, this would be the one that would get me. I started reading this at one in the morning and was left with only a few chapters when I had to go to work. I literally spent all day thinking about this book and just wanted to get home to finish it. I honestly wish this story spanned over several books. I could not get enough of Courtney and Maximus. This can be read as a standalone but is also the prequel to other books set in this world. I've already read one of them and was obsessed. Now I can't wait to read the third as well as a related series by this author that has some crossover characters. What a perfect way to start the weekend.
August 27, 2025
This is the prequel to the Blackthorn series,
Courtney and Maximus sure was both special and amazing to read about. I just loved and adore them.
Secret Confession is a forbidden, forced proximity, age gap romance that is short, spicy and extremely addictive.
It’s short, fast paced, age-gap, mafia romance and so much more, you just don’t want to miss out on it.
Courtney and Maximus sure was both special and amazing to read about. I just loved and adore them.
Secret Confession is a forbidden, forced proximity, age gap romance that is short, spicy and extremely addictive.
It’s short, fast paced, age-gap, mafia romance and so much more, you just don’t want to miss out on it.
August 5, 2025
‼️ TRIGGER WARNINGS‼️
Emma Luna’s *Secret Confession* is a tantalizing prequel that sets the stage for her *Rivals of Blackthorn* series, diving headfirst into a world of danger, desire, and dark romance.
With masterful storytelling and complex characters, this novella grips you from the very first page.
The story revolves around Courtney, a young woman thrust into a perilous situation who seeks refuge in the imposing Morelli Mansion. Little does she know that her brother's boss, Maximus Morelli, a man cloaked in danger and desire, will be the one to watch over her.
Maximus, with his possessive nature and intimidating presence, embodies the classic antihero. His infatuation with Courtney ignites a spiral of thrilling tension as he struggles with his feelings while enforcing a boundary that he knows he should uphold.
What truly stands out for me is the author’s ability to weave the themes of protection and possession into a deeply satisfying story. Maximus's determination to keep Courtney safe quickly escalates to an all consuming need that questions the line between love and control. Their chemistry is electric, fraught with longing, especially as Courtney navigates her innocence in a world filled with shadows and secrets.
The author captures the essence of forced proximity so well 🥵
The tension that builds as Courtney and Maximus are thrust into close quarters intensifies both the emotional stakes and the romance, we witness Courtney’s transformation from a frightened girl to a confident woman willing to embrace her desires.
As for the themes of power dynamics, *Secret Confession* does not shy away from exploring the complexities inherent in a relationship built on trust and surrender. The Daddy/protection dynamic adds another layer to their relationship, creating a unique and spicy element that will keep you turning those pages. 😜
In conclusion, *Secret Confession* is an addictive and enthralling read that balances darkness with deep emotional connections.
Emma Luna has created a compelling introduction to the *Rivals of Blackthorn* series. (Although I’ve read Prized Possession and Mutual Obsession already.)
If you enjoy dark romances with strong character development, sizzling chemistry, and complex themes, this novella is an absolute must read.
Prepare to be captivated by Maximus and Courtney’s journey….. a story that lingers long after the last page is turned.
🦋
Emma Luna’s *Secret Confession* is a tantalizing prequel that sets the stage for her *Rivals of Blackthorn* series, diving headfirst into a world of danger, desire, and dark romance.
With masterful storytelling and complex characters, this novella grips you from the very first page.
The story revolves around Courtney, a young woman thrust into a perilous situation who seeks refuge in the imposing Morelli Mansion. Little does she know that her brother's boss, Maximus Morelli, a man cloaked in danger and desire, will be the one to watch over her.
Maximus, with his possessive nature and intimidating presence, embodies the classic antihero. His infatuation with Courtney ignites a spiral of thrilling tension as he struggles with his feelings while enforcing a boundary that he knows he should uphold.
What truly stands out for me is the author’s ability to weave the themes of protection and possession into a deeply satisfying story. Maximus's determination to keep Courtney safe quickly escalates to an all consuming need that questions the line between love and control. Their chemistry is electric, fraught with longing, especially as Courtney navigates her innocence in a world filled with shadows and secrets.
The author captures the essence of forced proximity so well 🥵
The tension that builds as Courtney and Maximus are thrust into close quarters intensifies both the emotional stakes and the romance, we witness Courtney’s transformation from a frightened girl to a confident woman willing to embrace her desires.
As for the themes of power dynamics, *Secret Confession* does not shy away from exploring the complexities inherent in a relationship built on trust and surrender. The Daddy/protection dynamic adds another layer to their relationship, creating a unique and spicy element that will keep you turning those pages. 😜
In conclusion, *Secret Confession* is an addictive and enthralling read that balances darkness with deep emotional connections.
Emma Luna has created a compelling introduction to the *Rivals of Blackthorn* series. (Although I’ve read Prized Possession and Mutual Obsession already.)
If you enjoy dark romances with strong character development, sizzling chemistry, and complex themes, this novella is an absolute must read.
Prepare to be captivated by Maximus and Courtney’s journey….. a story that lingers long after the last page is turned.
🦋
August 21, 2025
First things first, a huge thank you to Emma Luna for giving me the chance to read Secret confession before it even got out AND for it being the first ever physical copy of an ARC i ever got!!
How that's possible you might ask...it if you meet her at a signing event (RARELONDON 💯✨) and you know the magic password 🤭✨
Now enough hype, let's talk tropes !
Age gap
DDLG X DADDY
Praise/degradation
Virgin FMC x Experienced MMC
Somnophilia
CNC (consensual non consent)
I loved it! I'm not a huge fan of the DDLG trope but i loved it in this book. Possibly blaming Maximus Morelli for everything 🤭✨
He is a dirty talk GOD and he gives meaning to "eye contact" (iykyk 👀✨).
As for trigger warnings, these include mentions of child abuse/neglect, mentions of use of drags (not hy main couple) and death of parent due to overdose, stalking, torture.
This is a mafia romance after all and someone threatened the FMC. What more did you expect?
The prequel novella that concludes Emma Luna's "Rivals of Blackthorn" series was definitely worth the wait ! From the moment I read a single sentence in "mutual obsession" and knew that Courtney ends up with Maximus, I was sold ! Having read it now i can say it lived up to my expectations!!
4/5 ⭐ definitely check it out and dive into the rivals of blackthorn series!!
How that's possible you might ask...it if you meet her at a signing event (RARELONDON 💯✨) and you know the magic password 🤭✨
Now enough hype, let's talk tropes !
Age gap
DDLG X DADDY
Praise/degradation
Virgin FMC x Experienced MMC
Somnophilia
CNC (consensual non consent)
I loved it! I'm not a huge fan of the DDLG trope but i loved it in this book. Possibly blaming Maximus Morelli for everything 🤭✨
He is a dirty talk GOD and he gives meaning to "eye contact" (iykyk 👀✨).
As for trigger warnings, these include mentions of child abuse/neglect, mentions of use of drags (not hy main couple) and death of parent due to overdose, stalking, torture.
This is a mafia romance after all and someone threatened the FMC. What more did you expect?
The prequel novella that concludes Emma Luna's "Rivals of Blackthorn" series was definitely worth the wait ! From the moment I read a single sentence in "mutual obsession" and knew that Courtney ends up with Maximus, I was sold ! Having read it now i can say it lived up to my expectations!!
4/5 ⭐ definitely check it out and dive into the rivals of blackthorn series!!
August 7, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the prequel and the last book in the Rivals of Blackthone Series. This is the story of Maximus and Courtney. She is hiding out in the Morelli Mansion after she received a threat. her brother insisted she would be safe there and no one would dare to come near the house. Here she finds herself begin watched by Maximus Morelli, her brother's boss. He is thrirty two years older than Courtney and very much off limits. However, he wants what he wants and she loves to break the rules. However, I don't know that she realized just how all consuming this man would be. He doesn't ask he doesn't take he owns and when he own he owns fiercely and never lets go. This is a novella and it is so smoking hot that you never want it to end. It sure didn't feel like I read a novella. It feels like a full story and I read it all in one sitting. I was not able to put it down. This is a book you do not want to miss. This story also takes place before Prized Possession and I suppose you could read this book and then dive into Prizes Possession. You don't want to miss it.
This is the prequel and the last book in the Rivals of Blackthone Series. This is the story of Maximus and Courtney. She is hiding out in the Morelli Mansion after she received a threat. her brother insisted she would be safe there and no one would dare to come near the house. Here she finds herself begin watched by Maximus Morelli, her brother's boss. He is thrirty two years older than Courtney and very much off limits. However, he wants what he wants and she loves to break the rules. However, I don't know that she realized just how all consuming this man would be. He doesn't ask he doesn't take he owns and when he own he owns fiercely and never lets go. This is a novella and it is so smoking hot that you never want it to end. It sure didn't feel like I read a novella. It feels like a full story and I read it all in one sitting. I was not able to put it down. This is a book you do not want to miss. This story also takes place before Prized Possession and I suppose you could read this book and then dive into Prizes Possession. You don't want to miss it.
August 2, 2025
“Bad girls who break the rules get punished, and you’ve been a very bad girl.”
💙 Secret Confession by Emma Luna 💙
Secret Confession is a novella in the Rivals of Blackthorn series by Emma Luna. I was lucky enough to receive the ARC of Maximus and Courtney's story and what a story it was!!
“That’s exactly what you should be doing. I’m the predator and you’re the prey, Little Lamb. You run because if I catch you, bad things will happen."
Short, sweet and spicy? This book is giving it all. I devoured this book so fast and absolutely loved it. After only getting brief meetings with both the MCs in the previous books in the series I was excited to learn more about them.
“You’re different. I want it all with you.”
I loved Courtney's sweet and positive personality and yet she still had a dark streak. Maximus. What can I say. He gives off megawatt daddy energy. The filth that came out of his mouth was insane 🥵 I absolutely loved the chemistry between them and honestly didn't want the book to end.
“You won’t lose me. I’m yours for as long as you’ll have me,”
Quick, easy read with a great storyline and a happy ending. This is out on the 5th so go pre-order!
💙 Age gap
🖤 Forbidden
💙 Touch her and 💀
🖤 Forced proximity
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
💙 Secret Confession by Emma Luna 💙
Secret Confession is a novella in the Rivals of Blackthorn series by Emma Luna. I was lucky enough to receive the ARC of Maximus and Courtney's story and what a story it was!!
“That’s exactly what you should be doing. I’m the predator and you’re the prey, Little Lamb. You run because if I catch you, bad things will happen."
Short, sweet and spicy? This book is giving it all. I devoured this book so fast and absolutely loved it. After only getting brief meetings with both the MCs in the previous books in the series I was excited to learn more about them.
“You’re different. I want it all with you.”
I loved Courtney's sweet and positive personality and yet she still had a dark streak. Maximus. What can I say. He gives off megawatt daddy energy. The filth that came out of his mouth was insane 🥵 I absolutely loved the chemistry between them and honestly didn't want the book to end.
“You won’t lose me. I’m yours for as long as you’ll have me,”
Quick, easy read with a great storyline and a happy ending. This is out on the 5th so go pre-order!
💙 Age gap
🖤 Forbidden
💙 Touch her and 💀
🖤 Forced proximity
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
July 31, 2025
Great short and spicy prequel to the Rivals of Blackthorn series. Focuses on Courtney and Maximus.
The chemistry between Courtney and Maximus was great and the spice kept spicing. I loved the teach me/show me moments between them.
I highly recommend checking this book out if you’re in the mood for a short and fast-paced mafia romance with tropes like age gap (32 years), forced proximity, forbidden romance, possessive & protective MMC, primal play and, of course, lots of spice.
“Now I see where you get your people skills from. He’s even more of a moody bastard than you are.”
“Bad girls who break the rules get punished, and you’ve been a very bad girl.”
“If you can look me in the eye while I’m coming down another girl’s throat, you can do so while I’m talking to you.”
“I’m the predator and you’re the prey, Little Lamb. You run because if I catch you, bad things will happen.”
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
The chemistry between Courtney and Maximus was great and the spice kept spicing. I loved the teach me/show me moments between them.
I highly recommend checking this book out if you’re in the mood for a short and fast-paced mafia romance with tropes like age gap (32 years), forced proximity, forbidden romance, possessive & protective MMC, primal play and, of course, lots of spice.
“Now I see where you get your people skills from. He’s even more of a moody bastard than you are.”
“Bad girls who break the rules get punished, and you’ve been a very bad girl.”
“If you can look me in the eye while I’m coming down another girl’s throat, you can do so while I’m talking to you.”
“I’m the predator and you’re the prey, Little Lamb. You run because if I catch you, bad things will happen.”
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
August 4, 2025
What a Book!!! Personally, there’s nothing I would change about it!
This is a prequel to the Rivals of Blackthorn Series by Emma Luna. This book follows Maximus and Courtney and the Tropes for the book are: 32 Year Age Gap, Touch her and Die, Forbidden, Virgin FMC and Brothers Boss are to name a few.
I really enjoyed the pace of this book, there was the right amount of plot for me and the spice didn’t take away from that. To me the plot and spice was perfectly balanced and meant that I could enjoy the storyline and still get to know the characters and their backgrounds.
I read this before the others in the series which can be done as it is a standalone prequel. I think it was a perfect introduction to the characters and their world. The descriptions of the world building were excellent, so it was easy to visualise the setting which is something I personally like. I want to be able to see the story whilst reading it and this definitely delivered that.
The spice, well that was amazing!! Definitely read the trigger warnings for this before reading. But overall the spice was well written and it flowed well within the story.
This is my first Emma Luna book and this did not disappoint!! I will certainly be reading more from Emma in the near future!
This is a prequel to the Rivals of Blackthorn Series by Emma Luna. This book follows Maximus and Courtney and the Tropes for the book are: 32 Year Age Gap, Touch her and Die, Forbidden, Virgin FMC and Brothers Boss are to name a few.
I really enjoyed the pace of this book, there was the right amount of plot for me and the spice didn’t take away from that. To me the plot and spice was perfectly balanced and meant that I could enjoy the storyline and still get to know the characters and their backgrounds.
I read this before the others in the series which can be done as it is a standalone prequel. I think it was a perfect introduction to the characters and their world. The descriptions of the world building were excellent, so it was easy to visualise the setting which is something I personally like. I want to be able to see the story whilst reading it and this definitely delivered that.
The spice, well that was amazing!! Definitely read the trigger warnings for this before reading. But overall the spice was well written and it flowed well within the story.
This is my first Emma Luna book and this did not disappoint!! I will certainly be reading more from Emma in the near future!
August 1, 2025
Wowza, the spice-to-plot ratio in this one was off the charts, just the way us booktok girlies like it! 🔥 After hearing about Maximus and Courtney in the other Rivals of Blackthorn books, you could say I was pretty intrigued about how they came to be, so I was definitely ready to dive into this novella. Despite the overall motivating factor of the events in this book, it was quite a bit lighter on the mafia side than I was expecting, given who Maximus is. I loved that despite the taboo nature of their relationship, they were exactly what the other needed - a match made in the bedroom for sure! 😜 I would’ve loved for this to have been a full-length novel and get to be more a part of their getting to know one another. I was really hoping for some more background from the both of them that a novella simply doesn’t have time for. If you enjoy age-gap mafia romances with all the spice, you’re going to love this quick read!
August 2, 2025
I absolutely adored the story between Courtney and Maximus. It felt like the closure I needed for their story!
The spice: 🌶🌶🌶
The plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I'm absolutely loving this series so far, its so worth reading. It gives off "touch her and die" vibes, so is literally right up my street!
I love how the meeting with Miles went in the opposite direction than what I thought it would! I was expecting it to take a bad turn but was relieved when he accepted the relationship.
I love the relationship that Courtney has with Miles, the protective older brother/sweet younger sister vibe is lovely to read and really refreshing.
I literally laughed out loud when Marcus walked in on them!🤣 poor guy was scarred for life!
Emma Luna, you've done it again 🤩 you're an auto-buy author for me now, and I'm slowly making my way through your books and loving each one! x
The spice: 🌶🌶🌶
The plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I'm absolutely loving this series so far, its so worth reading. It gives off "touch her and die" vibes, so is literally right up my street!
I love how the meeting with Miles went in the opposite direction than what I thought it would! I was expecting it to take a bad turn but was relieved when he accepted the relationship.
I love the relationship that Courtney has with Miles, the protective older brother/sweet younger sister vibe is lovely to read and really refreshing.
I literally laughed out loud when Marcus walked in on them!🤣 poor guy was scarred for life!
Emma Luna, you've done it again 🤩 you're an auto-buy author for me now, and I'm slowly making my way through your books and loving each one! x
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2025
This is the prequel to the Blackthorn series, Courtney who is Miles younger sister is being threatened, and the plan is to have her stay with Maximus Morelli, her brother’s boss. He is the first man who ever made her feel any bit of attraction. He tells her to stay out of his wing and they will not have any problems. She rarely sees Maximus and takes upon herself to break his rules. She sees him with one of the women he sees, he knows she is watching and interested.
This starts them down a new path, she wants to be the woman with him. When he claims her there will be no other man, she does not need to fight it as she wants no other.
This a sizzling read, the characters despite the large age gap are perfectly matched.
This starts them down a new path, she wants to be the woman with him. When he claims her there will be no other man, she does not need to fight it as she wants no other.
This a sizzling read, the characters despite the large age gap are perfectly matched.
August 5, 2025
This is the prequel to a new series, and this is Countney and Maximus’ story.
When Coutney becomes a target, and received a dangerous threat, her brother moves her to a place that is safe, and where nobody can tough her, Morelli Mansion. Maximus is Courtney’s brother’s boss, and she brings out his protective instincts.
This is a quick, fast paced read, with family, friendships, emotions, danger, suspense, intrigue, forced proximity, forbidden romance, obsession, secrets, and undeniable chemistry, which leads to an entertaining, and compelling page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
When Coutney becomes a target, and received a dangerous threat, her brother moves her to a place that is safe, and where nobody can tough her, Morelli Mansion. Maximus is Courtney’s brother’s boss, and she brings out his protective instincts.
This is a quick, fast paced read, with family, friendships, emotions, danger, suspense, intrigue, forced proximity, forbidden romance, obsession, secrets, and undeniable chemistry, which leads to an entertaining, and compelling page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
July 31, 2025
A dark, fast-paced prequel that brings the heat and sets the stage for the Rivals of Blackthorn series. It introduces readers to Maximus Morelli and Courtney, two characters brought together by danger, secrecy, and a tangled web of desire. And while the writing is strong and the story intense, the age-gap dynamic and certain kink elements weren’t a personal fit for me. That said, fans of taboo mafia romance with possessive antiheroes and forbidden tension will find a lot to enjoy here. Emma Luna doesn’t hold back. This one’s for readers who like their romance bold, dark, and dangerous.
August 5, 2025
Emma Luna knows how to write the touch her and 💀 trope so well! I love this prequel!
Secret Confession is a forbidden, forced proximity, age gap romance that is short and spicy! I absolutely loved Maximus and Courtney. This book was such a good one to read. I would recommend to check any trigger warnings, but overall I loved every second of it. Emma Lunas writing is just something I really enjoy.
I’m excited for more from this author. I definitely recommend this book for others. I also recommend reading Emma Luna!
Secret Confession is a forbidden, forced proximity, age gap romance that is short and spicy! I absolutely loved Maximus and Courtney. This book was such a good one to read. I would recommend to check any trigger warnings, but overall I loved every second of it. Emma Lunas writing is just something I really enjoy.
I’m excited for more from this author. I definitely recommend this book for others. I also recommend reading Emma Luna!
August 5, 2025
Well, well, well!
Ms. Luna certainly has captured my interest with this deliciously dirty novella!
"A dark, addictive prequel to the Rivals of Blackthorn series," and I was there for every single minute!
Maximus knows Courtney should be off-limits, but she's as sweet as the cookies and brownies she's been baking! He's finding it hard to resist her!
What is Miles going to think? Say?
I'm so ready to continue the series!
Ready to dive into the dark, deep end with Ms. Luna and her characters!
Ms. Luna certainly has captured my interest with this deliciously dirty novella!
"A dark, addictive prequel to the Rivals of Blackthorn series," and I was there for every single minute!
Maximus knows Courtney should be off-limits, but she's as sweet as the cookies and brownies she's been baking! He's finding it hard to resist her!
What is Miles going to think? Say?
I'm so ready to continue the series!
Ready to dive into the dark, deep end with Ms. Luna and her characters!
September 11, 2025
This short story about Courtney and Maximus and how they got together is a spicy insight into how they got together and how their relationship grew from nothing to everything in a short period of time. I loved how honest and innocent Courtney was at the start and how that changed as she discovered her sensuality. I love how Maximus was so gentle with her, and although he tried to resist her, he just couldn't hold back any longer. I thoroughly enjoyed this side story set alongside the Rivals of Blackthorn storyline.
July 15, 2025
I completely devoured this spicy age gap read from Emma.
I've been in a complete book slump, and when I was kindly given this super early, of course I had to devour it in one sitting. Courtney is such a sweet character, I loved that we saw her explore herself in this book and that she wasn't afraid to ask Maximus what she wanted.
If you're after a spicy, dark mafia romance with a good old age gap - then look no further, Emma has you covered with this!
I've been in a complete book slump, and when I was kindly given this super early, of course I had to devour it in one sitting. Courtney is such a sweet character, I loved that we saw her explore herself in this book and that she wasn't afraid to ask Maximus what she wanted.
If you're after a spicy, dark mafia romance with a good old age gap - then look no further, Emma has you covered with this!
August 6, 2025
Dark and delicious… I am an Emma Luna FAN. There is always a good story filled with danger and SPICE !! This book was just that. We get an age-gap (32) , virgin FMC and an all consuming mmc with touch her and ouch! As a novella this book does not disappoint or fall short in anyway .. if your a dark romance, mafia fan I highly recommend this book as a prequel to Emma’s exciting mafia world. Please look for authors notes with regards to content awareness.
August 7, 2025
How Courtney and Maximus came to be. Due to a threat on her life because of her brother Miles, she goes to stay with Maximus. Thus how the age gap taboo relationship begins aside from the pet names he gave her it was hot. I thought I was going to pee my pants when Miles caught them. lol Things get quite steamy but there is also revenge on the one who was threatening Courtney and it’s not pretty. Short but good with a nice ending
August 21, 2025
I’ve always wondered how Courtney and Maximus got together and I wasn’t dispointed with their story - infact it left me wanting more. This book is hot; very hot with so much desire and attraction. Maximus was given the job to keep Courtney safe by letting her stay at his house, but this just brought out his protective side. What I love is she is able to explore herself and goes after what she wants. If you want a hot, sweet, spicy story then is the book for you.
August 23, 2025
Yet another amazing story from Emma! Courtney and Maximus lacked very little in the spice department, and also checked all the boxes for protector/daddy/professor. Watch Courtney blossom with Maximus is next level, and seeing Maximus discover who he truly is was heart warming. This wasn’t just a spicy read, it also hit me right in the feels. This is a magnificent series and I cannot wait to see what comes next!
July 28, 2025
This is a prequel/novella for the Rivals of Blackthorn series.
Maximus is the father of Marcus from the first book called Prized Possession. Courtney is the 19 yr old sister of Jacob from the second book called Mutual Obsession.
Maximus takes Courtney in when she has a stalker. Age gap, forced proximity tropes work well in this mafia romance. I highly recommend the series.
Maximus is the father of Marcus from the first book called Prized Possession. Courtney is the 19 yr old sister of Jacob from the second book called Mutual Obsession.
Maximus takes Courtney in when she has a stalker. Age gap, forced proximity tropes work well in this mafia romance. I highly recommend the series.
August 5, 2025
I must tell you that Secret Confession packs some heat!! This hot and spicy prequel/novella to Emma Luna’s Rivals of Blackthorn series might leave you needing a cold shower or two. I couldn’t get enough of Courtney and Maximus.
I will admit that one particular kink that Maximus and Court practice is not usually for me. However, with Maximus being who he is and the age gap between them, I couldn’t imagine their interactions any other way. I absolutely love witnessing a dangerous, alpha male stake his claim on a woman. It was particularly enjoyable learning how their secret became uncovered.
Secret Confession is another must-read by Emma Luna. I am absolutely loving this series, and highly recommend that you read The Beautifully Brutal Series too.
5 stars
I will admit that one particular kink that Maximus and Court practice is not usually for me. However, with Maximus being who he is and the age gap between them, I couldn’t imagine their interactions any other way. I absolutely love witnessing a dangerous, alpha male stake his claim on a woman. It was particularly enjoyable learning how their secret became uncovered.
Secret Confession is another must-read by Emma Luna. I am absolutely loving this series, and highly recommend that you read The Beautifully Brutal Series too.
5 stars
August 5, 2025
Another fantastic book by Emma Luna. This book focuses on Courtney and her desires becoming awakened by Maximus. They have a big age cap but them coming together is 🔥. The book is super spicy as they explore each other - in every way. A perfect short read.
August 14, 2025
hot and filthy
Maximus is a filthy talker. Lol. I love the age gap forbidden trope, add in some d@ddy k!NK and I’m sold. This just lacked a little something. Might have been because it was so short. I don’t really know. It was still good but not quite great.
Maximus is a filthy talker. Lol. I love the age gap forbidden trope, add in some d@ddy k!NK and I’m sold. This just lacked a little something. Might have been because it was so short. I don’t really know. It was still good but not quite great.
August 2, 2025
Love an age gap,emma luna did not disappoint with this one everyone needs this in there life.on the hunt for a daddy now haha
August 6, 2025
I really enjoyed reading Courtney and Maximus. These two can really get your heartrate up. It was such and enjoyable story to read.
August 18, 2025
pretty good for a novella. some parts seemed rushed and I kinda wish there could've been more depth but I realize thats tough in shorter books.
August 18, 2025
I was so excited to discover this was a prequel to the series, and Courtney and Maximus' story!
Courtney moves into his mansion to be safe, after receiving messages from a stalker. She is supposed to keep to her side of the mansion, but of course, she can't resist the temptation of discovering more about Maximus. Her defiance unexpectedly starts something between them.
This is an age gap, mafia, forced proximity romance and I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was another great read from this author.
Courtney moves into his mansion to be safe, after receiving messages from a stalker. She is supposed to keep to her side of the mansion, but of course, she can't resist the temptation of discovering more about Maximus. Her defiance unexpectedly starts something between them.
This is an age gap, mafia, forced proximity romance and I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was another great read from this author.
August 29, 2025
*Please read your triggers*
Courtney - Receives a terrifying threat, with the agreement of her brother Courtney moves into the Morelli mansion. When she was looking for safety, she found something much more forbidden.. Love!
Maximus - Offers his mansion to Courney for safety while her brother and his son do their job yo track down and eliminate the threat. When offering his home for safety, he wasn't expecting to find love within his four walls..
This is a beautifully written dark Mafia Romance novel.
It's dark, it's spicy and gripping novel. One of many tropes, the forced proximity, did not disappoint!!
This is not the first novel of this authors I have read, and I can honestly say it will not be the last.
The way this author brings her dark romance novels alive is amazing! The spice is spicing in this novel.
This is a prequel novella for the Rivals of Blackthorn series. This series does not disappoint!!
If you are looking for a dark, twisty Mafia Romance with a lot of spice, then this series is for you! It does not disappoint. As always, check your trigger warnings!!
Courtney - Receives a terrifying threat, with the agreement of her brother Courtney moves into the Morelli mansion. When she was looking for safety, she found something much more forbidden.. Love!
Maximus - Offers his mansion to Courney for safety while her brother and his son do their job yo track down and eliminate the threat. When offering his home for safety, he wasn't expecting to find love within his four walls..
This is a beautifully written dark Mafia Romance novel.
It's dark, it's spicy and gripping novel. One of many tropes, the forced proximity, did not disappoint!!
This is not the first novel of this authors I have read, and I can honestly say it will not be the last.
The way this author brings her dark romance novels alive is amazing! The spice is spicing in this novel.
This is a prequel novella for the Rivals of Blackthorn series. This series does not disappoint!!
If you are looking for a dark, twisty Mafia Romance with a lot of spice, then this series is for you! It does not disappoint. As always, check your trigger warnings!!
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