Ruined By Protection

Feretti Syndicate #5

by Sherry Blake

When he touches me I don't see a killer.
I see salvation.Isolation, gaslighting, punishment.
I married a man who smirked while he broke me.
Who threatened to murder my parents.
Now I'm running from his abuse to hide with my cousin, who recently married into the Feretti mafia cosca.
Ensconced in their fabulous mansion I encounter a dangerous phantom - the only man who ever made me feel alive.
For just one unforgettable night.
Matteo Caruso. Dark eyes. Skillful hands. Expert mouth. Ruthless killer
My husband will never let me go but Matteo swears to guard me with his life. And wreak vengeance for every single one of the battle scars decorating my body.
His protection comes with a price I'm not sure I can pay.
But when he touches me, I remember what it feels like to be worshipped instead of owned.
He kills for duty, for loyalty, for family.
But will he also kill for love?
I'm starting to think some prices are worth paying.

But have I escaped one violent monster only to be captured by the possessive obsession of another?*Ruined By Protection is a full-length dark mafia, forced proximity, second chance romance loaded with angst, passion, secrets, lies, twists and most of all, a ton of steam heat. No cheating and a guaranteed HEA.

This is the fifth book in Feretti Syndicate mafia series. Each book in this series features a different couple and can be read as a standalone, but for maximum enjoyment, follow the recommended reading order.

Feretti Syndicate Reading Order & Tropes 1. Ruined By Revenge (Damiano & Zoe)
Arranged Marriage, Age Gap, Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Possessive/Jealous Alpha Male

2. Ruined By Blood (Enzo & Sienna)
Age Gap, Kidnapping, Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers, Possessive/Jealous Alpha Male, Scarred hero, Who did this to you?, Good Girl/Bad Boy

3. Ruined By Rhapsody (Noah & Evelyn)
Age Gap, Kidnapping, Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers, Possessive/Jealous Alpha Male, Scarred hero, Who did this to you?

4. Ruined By Capture (Alessio & Melania)
Age Gap, Kidnapping, Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers, OTT Possessive/Jealous Alpha Male, Tortured hero

5. Ruined By Protection (Matteo & Hazel)
Age Gap, Forced Proximity, Second Chance, OTT Possessive/Jealous Alpha Male, He Falls First, Who did this to you?

Genres: Romance

498 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 22, 2025

Reviews

[Vicki Mckeegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed all of the series so far, just disappointed I have to wait now to read the last in the series Lucrezia’s story. Roll on November

[Raecharmed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hazel is a bartender, and Matteo is in town for mafia business. One night they had a connection and ended sharing an amazing night together. Hazel left before he woke up and he didn't know her last name or number to reach out. Hazel moved on and gets married to a psychopath that loves trying to break her. After the last time he hit her share runs to get away and goes to where her cousin Evelyn is in New York. However, nothing could prepare her for finding out the Matteo would be there with her cousin to pick her up. Matteo worries about why Hazel is there and if she is a spy. Its doesn't take long before he learns the truth. Hazel learns that once they family protects you, its forever. Matteo slowly builds things anew between them. Can Hazel claim the life she now wants with her past coming for her? Will her husband find her?

This is an amazing story that once you start it you won't want to put it down. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that any book lover would enjoy.

I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for Bad Boy Update.

[BP34 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the Feretti Syndicate series and each book features a different couple. This book is Matteo and Hazel’s story and it’s one you don’t want to miss. They met at a bar three years earlier and had an explosive night together. He never forgot that night and their chemistry was off the charts. Her cousin married into the Feretti crime family and she invited her to stay at the mansion to her escape her abusive husband. A second chance for Matteo and Hazel. This book is a dark mafia romance that’s overflowing with steam, danger and drama. Wow, a page turner that’s hard to put down. A standalone with an HEA and no cliffhanger. A great addition to the series. I read a free advance copy via Bad Boy Updates and voluntarily chose to write a review.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 5 in this series and now it’s Matteo’s turn to feel what the others have felt in previous books Meeting Hazel in a bar and connecting with her and having one heck of an evening together and never forgetting. Then they come into each other’s lives 3 years later when Hazel comes to town to get away from her abusive husband. When she see Matteo at the airport with Evelyn, she’s not sure why he’s there but soon find out. The Feretti family is going to help her and works for the family. That’s all I’m giving away, this series has been a good one to read. Good chemistry, loyalty and a family that is all about the love they have for each other. Great read to put on your list. #badboyupdate

[Kristen Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 5th DELICIOUS book in the Feretti Syndicate Mafia Series by Sherry Blake and OMG!!! Absolutely LOVE this series! I cannot wait to read the next one that comes out NOV 30th! Matteo... holy hell!! Fierce, Loyal, Protective, HOT!!! Team Matteo all the way for me! Hazel is a bartender that happens to meet Matteo at a hotel bar and the connection is instant! 3 years later though.... the plot thickens! This book was by far my favorite of the series! I don't want to give an spoilers so the only thing I am going to say is.... THIS IS A MUST READ!!! Definitely read this series in order because it makes these books that much better!

[K. Smock · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!! This is the fifth book in the Feretti Crime family. This is Matteo's and Hazel's story. Hazel's cousin is married into the Feretti family and invites her to come and stay to get away from her abusive husband. The family has decided to protect her, and Matteo is the one to do it. They had met years earlier and had one night of passion that neither of them has forgotten. This is a good second chance mafia romance with lots of action that keeps you reading to the last page.

I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story!!

This is the fifth book in this phenomenal series and this is Matteo and Hazel's story.
This is a well written story which has found family, friendships, emotions, loyalty, trauma, heartbreak, danger, suspense, intrigue, challenges, manipulation, healing, making choices, second chances, undeniable chemistry, and love which leads to an entertaining, twisted, and unpredictable addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Danielle Marlowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hazel and Matteo's journey was a rollercoaster, their journey was bumpy, many ups and downs but these two were strong, fighters and well matched, their connection and chemistry was off the charts, they were good together. I enjoyed their journey, this is a great story, I'd suggest reading. Sherry Blake did a great job on the plot, it's strong and written well. Thank you, Sherry Blake. Great work :)

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The journey that Matteo and Hazel take is a spectacular story. I have enjoyed reading every book in the Feretti Syndicate series, so I knew I would love this one just as much. Hazel and Matteo get a second chance after Hazel leaves an absolute horrible situation with her husband. Matteo and Hazel are perfect for each other and I loved every one of their interactions. The connection that they share is absolutely amazing and I enjoyed reading through it.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the series and it doesn't disappoint.
Matteo and Hazel had one amazing night together three years ago but when they meet again she is running from her abusive husband.
The chemistry is still there between them but will she accept his help to protect her.
I loved how they were together but when he tries to get to her by threatening her family Matteo does what he has to to keep them safe.
A must read.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Linda Stokes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hazel has been with an abusive husband. She finally works up the courage to leave and goes to stay with her cousin who is married to a Feretti. When Hazel gets there she sees a man she had met before, Matteo. Matteo says he will protect her from her husband. Will Matteo be able to protect not only Hazel but her family? Will Matteo and Hazel fall in love?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Bad Boy Update

Fantastic Second Chance Mafia romance!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book!! I love this series and Matteo and Hazel's story may be the best yet. They had one night together, then she disappeared from his life. Now he is tasked with protecting her, while trying to keep her at a distance. He was the one good thing that happened in her life, but can she trust him to protect her, while she tries to protect her heart. So many twists and turns, you can't help but love the characters flaws and all. Loved it! I received this ARC from Bad Boy Updates.

[Belle · Rating 3 out of 5]

My heart breaks over domestic violence and women being completely manipulated. After their night together, neither of them can really get over how good it was, but they both move on. I don’t know, it was good, and I liked how everything developed, but somehow the deeper emotional layer was missing. The ending also felt a bit like ‘and then this happened’, too much and too little at the same time. The tension just faded.

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hazel and Matteo had an unforgettable intimate night years ago and find themselves reconnected when she comes to stay with her cousin who married into a crime family for protection against her abusive husband. Ruined by Protection is an action-pack drama that kept me engaged until the last page.
I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her life with her husband has been hell and her body is covered in scars. She manages to escape and find a place she may finally be safe. Unfortunately the one man who made her body sing in joy rather than pain is there. He is a killer and he wants to kill the man who hurt her. Will he kill for love? See what will happen

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this mafia family who protect everyone in their family, whether blood related or not. Hazel is escaping from her abusive ex. She runs to her cousin, Evelyn in New York. She is taken to the Feretti mansion. Matteo remembers Hazel from 3 years ago and one unforgettable night. Will Hazel's ex find her? Will Matteo admit his feelings for Hazel? Great story!!

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book! Matteo and hazel spent one night together in Austin then sneak out now three years later she's in danger from her husband and flees to new York, Matteo will do anything to protect her and being the enforcer for the mafia has it's advantages. Will they get their second chance or is it to late?

[Amber Landon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matteo is a the man!

I love how Sherry Blake builds a story. It’s creative and engaging and you don’t want to stop reading. The characters she creates pulls you in - Matteo and Hazel are no different. I read this book in one day the first time and I have reread it attest three times. All her books are a good read, but this one is one of my faves! Highly recommended!

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc review For a honest review in my own words on a book I read . Hazel has two men in her life both are different ,but the same , only one does things to protect .I love this beautiful story your going to love this book

[Cat1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matteo and Hazel

Good, solid story. Matteo and Hazel have a wonderful chemistry. They are able to come together and grow during tough times. You'll enjoy the story. Great series.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read all six books in this series in four days - I’m absolutely shattered! This one has to be my favourite. I don’t want to ruin anything but if this is your type of book then this IS your book.

[Violet Patterson · Rating 1 out of 5]

What happened to this series? I am seriously only reading them at this point to get to Lucretia’s story. Hazel was insufferable. And there were so many incongruities and pointless scenes. Ugh. Why so long?

[Maria Byrne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book

Omg what a story can't cope. But loved everything about it and can't wait to download the next book and get started . Highly recommend to friends and read the whole series

[Jodie Lauren · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hazel and Matteo shared a hot night together. Years later she married to someone else but he is worse than she ever could have known. Running from him is dangerous but she has no choice and now Matteo is back!

Xx

[Magic book club · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Lisbeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Aburrido.

[Miriam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Een second chance maffia verhaal, leest weer lekker weg, op naar het laatste deel