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Innocent Intentions: A Dark Kidnapping Mafia Romance
He made me miss my coffee run when he murdered those two men in an alley.
Now he brings it to me in bed every morning. So… that’s where I’m at.
MARGOT
I was just trying to be helpful. A hot stranger left his credit card behind at the café.
I followed him outside to return it. To do a good deed.
I didn’t mean to overhear his phone call.
I definitely didn’t mean to hear phrases like “cut out his tongue” and “shoot on sight.”
And I absolutely didn’t mean to witness a double homicide.
Which, to be fair, could’ve arguably been self-defense.
Now, I’m in his house. Wearing his clothes. Sleeping in his bed.
Eating dinner with him every night like a married couple.
And don’t even get me started on his ridiculous
He says I’m his.
That I belong to him.
He calls it our bed and our home.
He’s a psychopathic killer hiding behind custom suits.
I should be afraid. I should be trying to escape.
But with every heated gaze and tempting touch…
It’s starting to feel less like captive and more like choice.
And that terrifies me more than he ever could.
MATTHIAS
She followed me. I didn’t even know. She walked straight into my world,
tripping over a dumpster trying to get away, begging for her freedom.
God, I love when she begs.
Really, it’s her fault I took her.
What was I supposed to do? Let her go?
She saw too much. I didn’t have a choice.
Now she’s in my house.
Infiltrating every room.
Filling it with her laughter, her mess, her sass,
and her ridiculously named lazy, oversized excuse for a guard dog.
They’ve moved in like they belong here.
And somehow… they’re consuming my mind.
She doesn’t know it yet.
But she was mine the second those big, beautiful eyes locked with mine
as she swore her innocent intentions.
I won’t let her go.
Because I keep what’s mine.
This is a dark, mafia romance built on instant obsession, forced proximity by his design, and one very bad decision. He took her to ensure her silence. Now he’ll do anything to make her stay. Intended for readers 18+.
Now he brings it to me in bed every morning. So… that’s where I’m at.
MARGOT
I was just trying to be helpful. A hot stranger left his credit card behind at the café.
I followed him outside to return it. To do a good deed.
I didn’t mean to overhear his phone call.
I definitely didn’t mean to hear phrases like “cut out his tongue” and “shoot on sight.”
And I absolutely didn’t mean to witness a double homicide.
Which, to be fair, could’ve arguably been self-defense.
Now, I’m in his house. Wearing his clothes. Sleeping in his bed.
Eating dinner with him every night like a married couple.
And don’t even get me started on his ridiculous
He says I’m his.
That I belong to him.
He calls it our bed and our home.
He’s a psychopathic killer hiding behind custom suits.
I should be afraid. I should be trying to escape.
But with every heated gaze and tempting touch…
It’s starting to feel less like captive and more like choice.
And that terrifies me more than he ever could.
MATTHIAS
She followed me. I didn’t even know. She walked straight into my world,
tripping over a dumpster trying to get away, begging for her freedom.
God, I love when she begs.
Really, it’s her fault I took her.
What was I supposed to do? Let her go?
She saw too much. I didn’t have a choice.
Now she’s in my house.
Infiltrating every room.
Filling it with her laughter, her mess, her sass,
and her ridiculously named lazy, oversized excuse for a guard dog.
They’ve moved in like they belong here.
And somehow… they’re consuming my mind.
She doesn’t know it yet.
But she was mine the second those big, beautiful eyes locked with mine
as she swore her innocent intentions.
I won’t let her go.
Because I keep what’s mine.
This is a dark, mafia romance built on instant obsession, forced proximity by his design, and one very bad decision. He took her to ensure her silence. Now he’ll do anything to make her stay. Intended for readers 18+.
434 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 15, 2025
35 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Hallaron
2 books12 followersEllie Hallaron is an author and lifelong storyteller, always turning ordinary moments into something worth retelling.
She fell in love with books early on, and growing up, the only punishment that ever stuck was having them taken away. Novels have always felt like home, first as a reader, now as a writer.
Ellie writes emotionally charged romance with depth, intensity, and heroes you probably shouldn't fall for… but absolutely will.
When she’s not writing, she’s usually with friends and family who patiently endure her spirals over fictional characters, or she’s dreaming up the next story.
She’s thrilled to finally share her words with readers. And she’s just getting started.
STALK ELLIE ONLINE HERE:
TikTok: @EllieHallaron.Author
Instagram: @EllieHallaron.Author
She fell in love with books early on, and growing up, the only punishment that ever stuck was having them taken away. Novels have always felt like home, first as a reader, now as a writer.
Ellie writes emotionally charged romance with depth, intensity, and heroes you probably shouldn't fall for… but absolutely will.
When she’s not writing, she’s usually with friends and family who patiently endure her spirals over fictional characters, or she’s dreaming up the next story.
She’s thrilled to finally share her words with readers. And she’s just getting started.
STALK ELLIE ONLINE HERE:
TikTok: @EllieHallaron.Author
Instagram: @EllieHallaron.Author
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 14, 2025
Okay so when I started this book I didn’t think I was going to like it. The writing seemed a little juvenile, maybe even leaning towards the cringy side. We start with meeting Matthias and he introduces each one of his brothers and then he’s like “then there’s me, Matthias Montclair” and I was like oh gosh. It was like watching one of those teen movies where the main character is narrating the whole thing and introducing the viewers to his life. But alas, it did get better from there.
Margot had me laughing from the jump. She was quirky and kind of ditzy but funny. Her inner musings where she talks to herself in her head did get really annoying after a while though. It was like her and the voice in her head were two different people and the voice in her head contradicted everything she thought or said out loud. I could have done without all of that. She also gave me whiplash at certain points. One minute she’s all into Matty and then she was calling him a murderer and then she’s into him and then calling him psycho. I was like girl pick a lane!! She had BBS as well which got annoying at times. I was never really mad at Matty but she was multiple times but could never stick to her guns because she got wet every time he yelled at her.
I actually liked Matthias from early on. The first meeting when he threatened to hurt her and her dog I was like wow what an asshole but we see from his POV that hes so enamored with Margot that he would never hurt her. And then the first time he meets her dog is so freaking cute. I loved that Margo called him Matty knowing he hated it at first. Matty is so down bad for Margot. This was pretty insta in my opinion because by like 10% he’s thinking of their future babies. By 20% he’s so hopelessly in love with her. He’s super obsessive and possessive of her. He’s actually so sweet. When he found out the way to keep her was through romance he did little cute things. But I hate that it didn’t last long. Once he found out he could get her through doing sexual things that kind of got put on the back burner. He still did cute things but their sexual relationship seemed the forefront. But throughout it all the only thing he cared about was her. He even cried for her once or twice. And the way he proposed to her was soo cute!!!
Now OW. There’s very brief OW drama. In the first chapter Matty is at a gala and he has a date, though he even forgot he was there with her, he briefly thinks about taking her home to hook up but he dismisses it quickly because he’s just not interested. By the time he meets Margot he hasn’t been with anyone in months and for the whole entire book Margot is the only girl he ever thinks about. He can’t even stomach the thought of being with anyone else which I loved!! BUT he was definitely a manwhore before he met her. There were a few things mentioned that shows he got around. The OW shows up later at another gala and tries to get with Matty but he shuts it down. I do wish he would have shut it down before Margot did though, he was silent for too long for my liking. But he does shut her down pretty brutally.
This book was probably 100 pages too long. The chapters were really short which caused this book to have 86 freaking chapters with two epilogues!!
I’m really hoping not all of the brothers are manwhores though. We see that Seb is definitely one which bums me out because I liked him. I just wish authors would realize that a lot of readers are just so sick of the manwhore trope. We don’t want to read about yet another man who will sleep with anything only to be “tamed” by the FMC. A MMC that’s possessive and obsessive is so much better when they are selective with their partners, that makes it all the more better when they get with the FMC. In my opinion of course.
I’m excited Roman’s book is next because he’s my favorite brother!! Especially meeting his FMC at the end of this and seeing them together he’s soo cute with her!!
SAFETY & TWs
No cheating
no true ow drama
no om drama
no break up.
Small age gap (26?/34)
no virgins
attempted SA on FMC (not by MMC)
kidnapping (by MMC and others)
torture and murder.
Abuse to FMC (not by MMC)
HEA.
Margot had me laughing from the jump. She was quirky and kind of ditzy but funny. Her inner musings where she talks to herself in her head did get really annoying after a while though. It was like her and the voice in her head were two different people and the voice in her head contradicted everything she thought or said out loud. I could have done without all of that. She also gave me whiplash at certain points. One minute she’s all into Matty and then she was calling him a murderer and then she’s into him and then calling him psycho. I was like girl pick a lane!! She had BBS as well which got annoying at times. I was never really mad at Matty but she was multiple times but could never stick to her guns because she got wet every time he yelled at her.
I actually liked Matthias from early on. The first meeting when he threatened to hurt her and her dog I was like wow what an asshole but we see from his POV that hes so enamored with Margot that he would never hurt her. And then the first time he meets her dog is so freaking cute. I loved that Margo called him Matty knowing he hated it at first. Matty is so down bad for Margot. This was pretty insta in my opinion because by like 10% he’s thinking of their future babies. By 20% he’s so hopelessly in love with her. He’s super obsessive and possessive of her. He’s actually so sweet. When he found out the way to keep her was through romance he did little cute things. But I hate that it didn’t last long. Once he found out he could get her through doing sexual things that kind of got put on the back burner. He still did cute things but their sexual relationship seemed the forefront. But throughout it all the only thing he cared about was her. He even cried for her once or twice. And the way he proposed to her was soo cute!!!
Now OW. There’s very brief OW drama. In the first chapter Matty is at a gala and he has a date, though he even forgot he was there with her, he briefly thinks about taking her home to hook up but he dismisses it quickly because he’s just not interested. By the time he meets Margot he hasn’t been with anyone in months and for the whole entire book Margot is the only girl he ever thinks about. He can’t even stomach the thought of being with anyone else which I loved!! BUT he was definitely a manwhore before he met her. There were a few things mentioned that shows he got around. The OW shows up later at another gala and tries to get with Matty but he shuts it down. I do wish he would have shut it down before Margot did though, he was silent for too long for my liking. But he does shut her down pretty brutally.
This book was probably 100 pages too long. The chapters were really short which caused this book to have 86 freaking chapters with two epilogues!!
I’m really hoping not all of the brothers are manwhores though. We see that Seb is definitely one which bums me out because I liked him. I just wish authors would realize that a lot of readers are just so sick of the manwhore trope. We don’t want to read about yet another man who will sleep with anything only to be “tamed” by the FMC. A MMC that’s possessive and obsessive is so much better when they are selective with their partners, that makes it all the more better when they get with the FMC. In my opinion of course.
I’m excited Roman’s book is next because he’s my favorite brother!! Especially meeting his FMC at the end of this and seeing them together he’s soo cute with her!!
SAFETY & TWs
No cheating
no true ow drama
no om drama
no break up.
Small age gap (26?/34)
no virgins
attempted SA on FMC (not by MMC)
kidnapping (by MMC and others)
torture and murder.
Abuse to FMC (not by MMC)
HEA.
June 18, 2025
This book is sooooo good. I’ve never really been into the mafia/ dark romance genre, but this book!! It opened me up to a whole new genre and I’m so happy about it.
Innocent Intentions is the perfect mix of sexy, funny, and intriguing. All the characters show depth and the plot keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Margot is a fun and relatable main character that you will love instantly.
Matthias is so hot and possessive in a way that wants you to know more. His attitude and protectiveness are exciting to read.
Benny is of course such a cutie pie.
I love reading both points of view because it really allows you to know what’s happening in the background with both Matthias and Margot when it wouldn’t be so obvious from just Margot’s perspective.
Innocent Intentions is one of my favorite books now and I can’t wait for the rest of the Syndicate series to come out!
Innocent Intentions is the perfect mix of sexy, funny, and intriguing. All the characters show depth and the plot keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Margot is a fun and relatable main character that you will love instantly.
Matthias is so hot and possessive in a way that wants you to know more. His attitude and protectiveness are exciting to read.
Benny is of course such a cutie pie.
I love reading both points of view because it really allows you to know what’s happening in the background with both Matthias and Margot when it wouldn’t be so obvious from just Margot’s perspective.
Innocent Intentions is one of my favorite books now and I can’t wait for the rest of the Syndicate series to come out!
July 10, 2025
Holy Wow!!! 🔥🔥🔥
I haven't read a lot of Mafia romances, but Innocent Intentions has changed that for me! The fact that this is a debut book is wild!! I was instantly hooked from the very first page!
Tropes:
🥵Dark Mafia Romance
🥵Touch her and 💀
🥵Captor/Captive
🥵Morally Grey MMC/ Witty & Sassy FMC
Margot is now one of my favorite FMCs! From her wit and sass, to her internal monologue, she had me laughing out loud SO many times, and it's not surprise why Matthias calls her Spitfire! Matthias is morally grey in all the best ways: possessive, obsessive, will hurt anyone who so much as looks the wrong way at his girl, but also sweet and caring. The banter between the two was hilarious, the spice was incredibly hot 🥵, and the beautiful relationship they built while trying to navigate the Mafia world they live in was everything I wanted and more! The plot kept me on the edge of my seat, and I can't wait to see where it leads throughout the series. Also, I need Roman's book, like yesterday😍!
Thank you so much Ellie for allowing me to be apart of the ARC team in exchange for an honest review! I can't wait to continue reading more of The Syndicate Series❤️
I haven't read a lot of Mafia romances, but Innocent Intentions has changed that for me! The fact that this is a debut book is wild!! I was instantly hooked from the very first page!
Tropes:
🥵Dark Mafia Romance
🥵Touch her and 💀
🥵Captor/Captive
🥵Morally Grey MMC/ Witty & Sassy FMC
Margot is now one of my favorite FMCs! From her wit and sass, to her internal monologue, she had me laughing out loud SO many times, and it's not surprise why Matthias calls her Spitfire! Matthias is morally grey in all the best ways: possessive, obsessive, will hurt anyone who so much as looks the wrong way at his girl, but also sweet and caring. The banter between the two was hilarious, the spice was incredibly hot 🥵, and the beautiful relationship they built while trying to navigate the Mafia world they live in was everything I wanted and more! The plot kept me on the edge of my seat, and I can't wait to see where it leads throughout the series. Also, I need Roman's book, like yesterday😍!
Thank you so much Ellie for allowing me to be apart of the ARC team in exchange for an honest review! I can't wait to continue reading more of The Syndicate Series❤️
July 11, 2025
I read lots of books, and mafia books are my favorite! Innocent intentions has the perfect amount of build up, banter, spice, action.
Margot isn't weak or naive. Yes, she's a little goofy and has some insecurities (don't we all?) but she's charming, loving, and fiery. She feels real-and I love that.
Matthias is a beautiful mastermind, a soft dom, who knows what he wants and will do whatever it takes to get it. The way he pays attention to Margot's preferences and uses them to implant himself into her life? Yes, please. I'll take all my coffees in bed and lots of romantic dinners please!
I read the first 2/3 of this book in one sitting- I was intrigued by how their relationship started and developed- Matthias' growing obsessive and Margot fighting her attraction- when they came together it was 🔥
*Some spoilers ahead*
Once I got to the scene where the main characters were going to attend a gala, I predicted that Margot would be kidnapped. I liked how the author chose to showcase how each characters handled the kidnapping. It made me love the MMC and FMC more, but also I'm excited to read about viscous Roman, grumpy Dom, and tenacious Bash.
Margot isn't weak or naive. Yes, she's a little goofy and has some insecurities (don't we all?) but she's charming, loving, and fiery. She feels real-and I love that.
Matthias is a beautiful mastermind, a soft dom, who knows what he wants and will do whatever it takes to get it. The way he pays attention to Margot's preferences and uses them to implant himself into her life? Yes, please. I'll take all my coffees in bed and lots of romantic dinners please!
I read the first 2/3 of this book in one sitting- I was intrigued by how their relationship started and developed- Matthias' growing obsessive and Margot fighting her attraction- when they came together it was 🔥
*Some spoilers ahead*
Once I got to the scene where the main characters were going to attend a gala, I predicted that Margot would be kidnapped. I liked how the author chose to showcase how each characters handled the kidnapping. It made me love the MMC and FMC more, but also I'm excited to read about viscous Roman, grumpy Dom, and tenacious Bash.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2025
This was my first mafia romance and let me tell you—I didn’t just dip a toe in, I did a full dramatic swan dive...and I regret nothing.
Matthias? A walking red flag wrapped in hazard lights and oh so much heat. I ate it up. Dominating, unhinged, and somehow still tender? Do not pass go. Straight to jail. (But like…jail at my house😘)
Margot? She’s a firecracker with a credit card and a death wish. Her brain-to-mouth filter is broken in the best way, and I adored her like the messy BFF who’d definitely get you arrested, but also bail you out.
Yes, it’s spicy (Lord, is it spicy), but there’s substance under the covers. See what I did there. Family drama, character depth, emotional carnage—and a dog. In a castle. Come on.
Ellie Hallaron absolutely slayed her debut. Her writing is sharp, sexy, and full of life. Ellie, thank you for letting me dive headfirst into your beautifully twisted world. I truly hope this book crushes it (in the best way), and I’m wishing you all the success in the world. Can’t wait to see what you do next!
4.5⭐
Thank you to Ellie Hallaron for this advanced reader copy. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Matthias? A walking red flag wrapped in hazard lights and oh so much heat. I ate it up. Dominating, unhinged, and somehow still tender? Do not pass go. Straight to jail. (But like…jail at my house😘)
Margot? She’s a firecracker with a credit card and a death wish. Her brain-to-mouth filter is broken in the best way, and I adored her like the messy BFF who’d definitely get you arrested, but also bail you out.
Yes, it’s spicy (Lord, is it spicy), but there’s substance under the covers. See what I did there. Family drama, character depth, emotional carnage—and a dog. In a castle. Come on.
Ellie Hallaron absolutely slayed her debut. Her writing is sharp, sexy, and full of life. Ellie, thank you for letting me dive headfirst into your beautifully twisted world. I truly hope this book crushes it (in the best way), and I’m wishing you all the success in the world. Can’t wait to see what you do next!
4.5⭐
Thank you to Ellie Hallaron for this advanced reader copy. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 13, 2025
I loved this book! Matthias Montclair is everything you want in a morally grey MMC. He's dangerous, obsessive, and completely devoted to Margot. And Margot? She's absolutely hilarious with her internal monologue and sass! I was laughing out loud constantly.
This book is full of mafia vibes, forced proximity, spice, and amazing banter. I couldn't put it down and finished it in one sitting! The fact that this is Ellie Hallaron's debut novel is incredible because her writing is sharp and addictive.
I would highly recommend for dark romance lovers who enjoy touch her and ☠️ vibes, possessive MMCs, and witty FMCs! The family dynamics with Matthias's brothers add so much depth too. I'm already dying for Roman's book next!
The Syndicate Series is definitely going on my auto-buy list! 💜
This book is full of mafia vibes, forced proximity, spice, and amazing banter. I couldn't put it down and finished it in one sitting! The fact that this is Ellie Hallaron's debut novel is incredible because her writing is sharp and addictive.
I would highly recommend for dark romance lovers who enjoy touch her and ☠️ vibes, possessive MMCs, and witty FMCs! The family dynamics with Matthias's brothers add so much depth too. I'm already dying for Roman's book next!
The Syndicate Series is definitely going on my auto-buy list! 💜
July 3, 2025
From the first page, I was hooked. Matthias Montclair is everything you want in a morally grey anti-hero—dangerous, obsessive, violently tender, and deeply conflicted. He walks the line between menace and protector so beautifully that I honestly forgot how to breathe every time he called Margot "spitfire." And Margot? ICON. Her inner monologue is hilarious, chaotic, and heartbreakingly relatable. She's the kind of FMC who refuses to shut up, even when she’s in danger—and I adored her for it.
Ellie Hallaron’s writing is sharp, sexy, and shockingly funny. The pacing is perfect, the tension is off the charts, and the spice? Oh... the SPICE. Let’s just say Matthias has a mouth on him—in more ways than one—and I will never be the same.
But it’s not just spice and banter. There’s emotional depth, family dynamics, real character development, and a genuinely suspenseful plot that never once lets up. And the dog? The castle? The soft moments buried inside the chaos?? Obsessed.
This is Ellie's debut novel and I am shooketh by the level of talent on display here. If this is book one, I can’t even imagine what we’re getting with the next story. WE BETTER GET THE NEXT STORY!
If you love:
✨ morally grey men who would kill for you (literally)
✨ chaotic heroines with wit, sass, and a death wish
✨ mafia worlds with real heart behind the bloodshed
✨ laugh-out-loud banter and red flag romance done right
Then read this book. Read it yesterday.
Ellie Hallaron—please don’t ever stop writing.
Ellie Hallaron’s writing is sharp, sexy, and shockingly funny. The pacing is perfect, the tension is off the charts, and the spice? Oh... the SPICE. Let’s just say Matthias has a mouth on him—in more ways than one—and I will never be the same.
But it’s not just spice and banter. There’s emotional depth, family dynamics, real character development, and a genuinely suspenseful plot that never once lets up. And the dog? The castle? The soft moments buried inside the chaos?? Obsessed.
This is Ellie's debut novel and I am shooketh by the level of talent on display here. If this is book one, I can’t even imagine what we’re getting with the next story. WE BETTER GET THE NEXT STORY!
If you love:
✨ morally grey men who would kill for you (literally)
✨ chaotic heroines with wit, sass, and a death wish
✨ mafia worlds with real heart behind the bloodshed
✨ laugh-out-loud banter and red flag romance done right
Then read this book. Read it yesterday.
Ellie Hallaron—please don’t ever stop writing.
July 9, 2025
can a possessive mafia man kidnap me and make me fall in love with him?? is that too much to ask?
the fact that Innocent Intentions is a DEBUT is crazy to me!! this was so so good!!! sometimes when I read mafia romances, i tend to care more about the mafia storyline than the romance but in this one i cared soooo much about both! i really loved the characters. Margot is an easy character to relate to and you want Matthias as soon as we get introduced to him.
there were some heavy moments, as well as some lighthearted ones that actually made me laugh.
one of my favorite things was the family dynamic. it's not entirely cold and calculating like other mafia families can be. the parents actually gave a shit about their kids and although the brothers do bicker, you can tell they truly love each other.
i am foaming at the mouth for Roman's book 🥵🥵🥵
Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
the fact that Innocent Intentions is a DEBUT is crazy to me!! this was so so good!!! sometimes when I read mafia romances, i tend to care more about the mafia storyline than the romance but in this one i cared soooo much about both! i really loved the characters. Margot is an easy character to relate to and you want Matthias as soon as we get introduced to him.
there were some heavy moments, as well as some lighthearted ones that actually made me laugh.
one of my favorite things was the family dynamic. it's not entirely cold and calculating like other mafia families can be. the parents actually gave a shit about their kids and although the brothers do bicker, you can tell they truly love each other.
i am foaming at the mouth for Roman's book 🥵🥵🥵
Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2025
I was not sure what to expect when I started reading this book, but quickly started to enjoy it. The MMC is morally grey and instantly obsessed with the FMC, he does very questionable things at times. The FMC is written so well that you could see her as a woman in the real world. If you love dark romance that has light moments I would recommend it, as well as check triggers if you have any.
July 9, 2025
I received this book as an ARC and if you’re a reader who loves dark romance, mafia men vs the Bratva, and possessive MMCs then pick this up!
Our MMC doesn’t hold back when it comes to keeping your FMC under tight lock and key. Watching their relationship grow and how their dynamics change though the story is both exciting and intriguing to see how all of those choices play out in the end. There’s even a little betrayal along the way!
Our MMC doesn’t hold back when it comes to keeping your FMC under tight lock and key. Watching their relationship grow and how their dynamics change though the story is both exciting and intriguing to see how all of those choices play out in the end. There’s even a little betrayal along the way!
July 3, 2025
Wow! Innocent Intentions was such an incredible book! Dark Romance at its finest!
The story follows Margot, who overhears something she shouldn't have. To keep her from not speaking to the authorities, Matthias kidnaps her so he can figure out what to do. But what will he do, when this beautiful, spitfire of a woman is all he can think about?
The writing is incredible, and the story line kept me hooked - I could not put this book down!
Tropes, etc:
- Dark / Mafia Romance
- Kidnapper × Captive
- MMC Obsessed and Posessive
- Delicious Spice
Check your Trigger warnings!
I cannot wait to see wait the author writes next!
The story follows Margot, who overhears something she shouldn't have. To keep her from not speaking to the authorities, Matthias kidnaps her so he can figure out what to do. But what will he do, when this beautiful, spitfire of a woman is all he can think about?
The writing is incredible, and the story line kept me hooked - I could not put this book down!
Tropes, etc:
- Dark / Mafia Romance
- Kidnapper × Captive
- MMC Obsessed and Posessive
- Delicious Spice
Check your Trigger warnings!
I cannot wait to see wait the author writes next!
July 14, 2025
Firstly, amazing book that will end a reading slump. I have been in a slump for 3 months and this book brought my reading passion back to life.
The way the author created this universe is **chefs kiss**. It left me wanting any crumbs about her next book.
The fact that she did not only make me fall in love with the main character but the side character and a dog.
The authors way of words made you love a character, hate a character and finally understand a character.
The book:
- Grumpy/ sunshine (don't let this decive you the female has a back born whose light won't get dimmed).
-Dark romance
-Spicy
-Banter
-Perfect balance between the dark themes and romance.
Please give this a read it's worth every minute.
The first time I am writing a review, showcasing my love for it. I read countless books but this book brought me back to life.
The way the author created this universe is **chefs kiss**. It left me wanting any crumbs about her next book.
The fact that she did not only make me fall in love with the main character but the side character and a dog.
The authors way of words made you love a character, hate a character and finally understand a character.
The book:
- Grumpy/ sunshine (don't let this decive you the female has a back born whose light won't get dimmed).
-Dark romance
-Spicy
-Banter
-Perfect balance between the dark themes and romance.
Please give this a read it's worth every minute.
The first time I am writing a review, showcasing my love for it. I read countless books but this book brought me back to life.
July 14, 2025
An absolute must read! The absolute humour and beauty of this book was to die for! I honestly couldn't not get enough! The banter between Matthias and Margot was so well written. The story had a little bit of everything. It was such an unique story and I loved every bit of it! A 1000/10 recommend.
July 17, 2025
I can’t express how much i love this book. This is Ellie’s debut novel, and she did a phenomenal job. Her writing is enthralling and will 100% have you craving more. The book is dual perspectives, which i love! As the reader, we get to dive into Matthias’ obsession for Margot as well as Margot’s confused feelings towards him.
If you like romance of any sort, i highly recommend “Innocent Intentions.” The forced proximity and tension between Matthias and Margot had me DEVOURING this book. I love that Matthias is immediately obsessed with Margot the moment he lays his eyes on her. Additionally, the conflicts between the Montclair’s and the Bratva will have you on the edge of your seat.
I am so excited for rest of the Syndicate series to be released! I can’t recommend “Innocent Intentions” enough. Go read it already!
If you like romance of any sort, i highly recommend “Innocent Intentions.” The forced proximity and tension between Matthias and Margot had me DEVOURING this book. I love that Matthias is immediately obsessed with Margot the moment he lays his eyes on her. Additionally, the conflicts between the Montclair’s and the Bratva will have you on the edge of your seat.
I am so excited for rest of the Syndicate series to be released! I can’t recommend “Innocent Intentions” enough. Go read it already!
July 19, 2025
Okay, I will not lie, this book was not for me. I felt like Matthias fell too much on the side of serial killer psychopath instead of just being an adorably possessive mafia man. I think what I struggled with was the fact that he truly did isolate her from literally everyone and everything she knew and force her to become wholly dependent on him. Her “rebellions” were cute to him and not a testament to the fact that she truly deserved a say in her own life. HOWEVER, I do understand that this type of thing is a lot of other reader’s cups of tea, so I don’t want to hate on it too much. I get it. I have loved some pretty problematic stories in my time, too. I did read this book pretty quickly, so clearly it was entertaining to me, so that is why I did ultimately decide to give it a three star rating.
July 15, 2025
Whewww this one was one for the dark romance readers! I am obsessed with mafia romances so when I say it had everything you could want in a MMC ( Matthias) that is a true touch her and die, possessive, who may or may not be the captor who ends up being the man she needs.
Dark mafia
Touch her and ☠️
Morally grey MMC 😜
Emotional Rollercoaster 👀
Spice spice spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
We all want the hero in the end. But some hero’s look different and Margot doesn’t know what she’s in for but oh boy does she give it right back!
Thank you for letting me be apart of your arc team!
Dark mafia
Touch her and ☠️
Morally grey MMC 😜
Emotional Rollercoaster 👀
Spice spice spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
We all want the hero in the end. But some hero’s look different and Margot doesn’t know what she’s in for but oh boy does she give it right back!
Thank you for letting me be apart of your arc team!
July 10, 2025
3.5⭐️ 3🌶️
ARC Review - For a debut novel, this was a great book. Matthias (Matty) is part of the Montclair Syndicate (Mafia) and meets Margot who has unknowingly become a target of the Bratva (Russian Mafia). He takes her hostage and ends up falling fast and hard for her.
I love a slow burn and this was far from it.. It was they meet.. boom.. he is obsessed. The timing felt off for some of the book. That being said I would still recommend this book and I don't think this is the last we will be seeing of the Montclaire family!
ARC Review - For a debut novel, this was a great book. Matthias (Matty) is part of the Montclair Syndicate (Mafia) and meets Margot who has unknowingly become a target of the Bratva (Russian Mafia). He takes her hostage and ends up falling fast and hard for her.
I love a slow burn and this was far from it.. It was they meet.. boom.. he is obsessed. The timing felt off for some of the book. That being said I would still recommend this book and I don't think this is the last we will be seeing of the Montclaire family!
July 14, 2025
MAN! Can you say a book had me hooked! I loved this book from the 1st page until the very last page!! I love a good Mafia romance book! BUT this one was like no other it was a nice breath of fresh air I enjoyed both characters!! I cant wait for more from this author! fan for life!
September 8, 2025
3.5⭐️!
Enjoyed this! For a Debut it was very good! Love a mafia romance love the captor captive! The insta love wasn’t really for me but still felt it was a really good read and super excited for book 2!
Enjoyed this! For a Debut it was very good! Love a mafia romance love the captor captive! The insta love wasn’t really for me but still felt it was a really good read and super excited for book 2!
July 12, 2025
I’ll start this review by saying that I don’t really read dark mafia romances, but I decided to try this book to step out of my comfort zone. It was a very quick read that I finished in less than a day. The story made me feel a mix of emotions — sometimes it made me laugh, other times it left me frustrated.
Oh, Matthias – such a modest person you are. Truly a god’s gift to women 🤣🤣🤣
The plot moves extremely fast, and some situations felt a bit rushed, especially considering how serious they were. I also found it difficult to connect with the main female character and understand some of her decisions.
That being said, for a debut, it was quite a solid effort, especially since I don’t normally pick up dark romance. Overall, while the story wasn’t always easy for me to relate to, it definitely kept my attention, and I’m curious to see what happens in the next book.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. I wish you lots of inspiration and can’t wait to see what ideas you come up with next!
Oh, Matthias – such a modest person you are. Truly a god’s gift to women 🤣🤣🤣
The plot moves extremely fast, and some situations felt a bit rushed, especially considering how serious they were. I also found it difficult to connect with the main female character and understand some of her decisions.
That being said, for a debut, it was quite a solid effort, especially since I don’t normally pick up dark romance. Overall, while the story wasn’t always easy for me to relate to, it definitely kept my attention, and I’m curious to see what happens in the next book.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. I wish you lots of inspiration and can’t wait to see what ideas you come up with next!
September 13, 2025
Unhinged MMC
Wow what a journey. If you love unhinged MMC and plus size FMC with her "Puppy" and she is an audiobook narrator you will love the book.
Wow what a journey. If you love unhinged MMC and plus size FMC with her "Puppy" and she is an audiobook narrator you will love the book.
July 22, 2025
Loved the writing so much. I love how obsessed he was with her from the beginning and how she didn't give in that easily. I absolutely love the kidnapping trope and this was the perfect book for it.
Can't wait for the sequels...
Can't wait for the sequels...
August 26, 2025
If I had to sum up Innocent Intentions by Ellie Hallaron in two words: rushed and frustrating.
The book starts strong — the FMC is set up as independent, capable and someone I thought I’d root for. And then… she meets the MMC, looks at him, and within a page or two she’s letting him get away with literally anything. Kidnapping her? Confined to a mansion? Cutting her off from her parents and the entire world? All waved off because “he’s so hot.” Like… seriously??
From there, her whole personality just evaporates. Suddenly she’s no longer interested in her job, her life, her independence — she’s content spending months doing nothing but sleeping, eating, reading, and falling in love with her captor. I went in expecting mafia clichés: insta-love, a possessive MMC, frustratingly improbable setups. But this book cranked it up to an unbearable level. Whole weeks and months were skipped over with barely an incident in between. It didn’t feel like a story so much as a rushed outline.
And about that possessive MMC? Instead of intriguing or swoony, his brand of control went straight into unrealistic, improbable, and downright maddening. Honestly, the controlling behavior was so over the top that I wasn’t even rolling my eyes — I was irritated.
To be fair, it slowed down a little near the end and got slightly better, but the damage was already done. This book didn’t make me swoon or sigh — it made me scream in frustration.
The book starts strong — the FMC is set up as independent, capable and someone I thought I’d root for. And then… she meets the MMC, looks at him, and within a page or two she’s letting him get away with literally anything. Kidnapping her? Confined to a mansion? Cutting her off from her parents and the entire world? All waved off because “he’s so hot.” Like… seriously??
From there, her whole personality just evaporates. Suddenly she’s no longer interested in her job, her life, her independence — she’s content spending months doing nothing but sleeping, eating, reading, and falling in love with her captor. I went in expecting mafia clichés: insta-love, a possessive MMC, frustratingly improbable setups. But this book cranked it up to an unbearable level. Whole weeks and months were skipped over with barely an incident in between. It didn’t feel like a story so much as a rushed outline.
And about that possessive MMC? Instead of intriguing or swoony, his brand of control went straight into unrealistic, improbable, and downright maddening. Honestly, the controlling behavior was so over the top that I wasn’t even rolling my eyes — I was irritated.
To be fair, it slowed down a little near the end and got slightly better, but the damage was already done. This book didn’t make me swoon or sigh — it made me scream in frustration.
July 9, 2025
Innocent Intentions is Ellie Hallaron’s dark and addictive debut novel and it's perfect for mafia romance lovers. Matthias (yes, 6’4” and alpha to the core) is a billionaire business mogul with family ties to the mob. Margot is a reclusive financial analyst with a spicy side hustle as a romance audiobook narrator. Their worlds collide after a tense encounter outside of a coffee shop… which ends in Matty kidnapping her. For dark romance readers, this is exactly the kind of morally gray, “touch her and die” chaos we live for.
Matty’s instant obsession with Margot is both sweet and eh... mildly concerning, but the chemistry between them is intense. Margot’s internal conflict is written with care—she knows she shouldn’t want him, but that doesn’t stop her heart. I also loved the found family dynamic with Matty’s brothers, who ultimately rally to protect Margot.
This book is packed with dark romance tropes - be sure to check trigger warnings:
🔥 Kidnapping /forced proximity
🔥 Alpha MMC + Feisty FMC
🔥 Mafia world
🔥 Slow burn + spice
🔥 Found family
🔥 Obsession, tension, and emotional stakes
This is steamy, funny, and surprisingly emotional. Hallaron’s voice is fresh, and I am definitely looking forward to the next book in The Syndicate Series. I received an early copy of this book and am posting this honest review.
Matty’s instant obsession with Margot is both sweet and eh... mildly concerning, but the chemistry between them is intense. Margot’s internal conflict is written with care—she knows she shouldn’t want him, but that doesn’t stop her heart. I also loved the found family dynamic with Matty’s brothers, who ultimately rally to protect Margot.
This book is packed with dark romance tropes - be sure to check trigger warnings:
🔥 Kidnapping /forced proximity
🔥 Alpha MMC + Feisty FMC
🔥 Mafia world
🔥 Slow burn + spice
🔥 Found family
🔥 Obsession, tension, and emotional stakes
This is steamy, funny, and surprisingly emotional. Hallaron’s voice is fresh, and I am definitely looking forward to the next book in The Syndicate Series. I received an early copy of this book and am posting this honest review.
July 15, 2025
ARC Review 3.5 ⭐️
Innocent Intentions by Ellie Hallaron definitely delivers if you’re in the mood for something dark, dramatic, and steamy. It's a mafia romance, so expect possessiveness, danger, and a heavy dose of morally gray behavior. The plot kicks off with the main character getting kidnapped after overhearing a murder confession, and from there, it spirals into a twisted kind of Stockholm syndrome romance where she starts falling for her captor.
The spice? Solid. If that’s your priority, you’ll probably be satisfied. The tension is intense, and there’s no shortage of heat between the leads.
But for me, the height-difference trope (he’s the classic 6’4” alpha, she’s a tiny 5-foot innocent girl) was just... overdone. It feels like a recycled dynamic I’ve read too many times, and it made the relationship harder to take seriously. I wish there had been a bit more nuance or originality in the characters themselves.
That said, if you’re not looking for realism and just want something addictive and wild to tear through, Innocent Intentions works as a solid palate cleanser. It’s not lighthearted by any means, but it doesn’t ask you to think too hard either, just buckle up and enjoy the chaos.
Innocent Intentions by Ellie Hallaron definitely delivers if you’re in the mood for something dark, dramatic, and steamy. It's a mafia romance, so expect possessiveness, danger, and a heavy dose of morally gray behavior. The plot kicks off with the main character getting kidnapped after overhearing a murder confession, and from there, it spirals into a twisted kind of Stockholm syndrome romance where she starts falling for her captor.
The spice? Solid. If that’s your priority, you’ll probably be satisfied. The tension is intense, and there’s no shortage of heat between the leads.
But for me, the height-difference trope (he’s the classic 6’4” alpha, she’s a tiny 5-foot innocent girl) was just... overdone. It feels like a recycled dynamic I’ve read too many times, and it made the relationship harder to take seriously. I wish there had been a bit more nuance or originality in the characters themselves.
That said, if you’re not looking for realism and just want something addictive and wild to tear through, Innocent Intentions works as a solid palate cleanser. It’s not lighthearted by any means, but it doesn’t ask you to think too hard either, just buckle up and enjoy the chaos.
July 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Innocent Intentions is a dark mafia romance that pulls you in right from the start and doesn’t let go. You’ll find yourself falling for the villain — if you can even call him that — and questioning where your loyalties lie. It’s definitely a possessive, “I own you” romance with a twist of kidnapping, and I am so here for it.
I absolutely loved the FMC in this book — there’s something so real about her. She’s relatable, funny, and strong in all the right ways. The Montclair crime family is at the center of this story, and honestly, I think I adore all the brothers. The plot is gripping, with a few surprises thrown in that I truly didn’t see coming.
The spice? Absolute fire. It’s steamy but tastefully done, adding to the chemistry and tension between the characters. The story and plotline feel believable for the world it’s set in, and I enjoyed every second of it. I’m already highly anticipating the next book — I need more of the Montclairs!
Innocent Intentions is a dark mafia romance that pulls you in right from the start and doesn’t let go. You’ll find yourself falling for the villain — if you can even call him that — and questioning where your loyalties lie. It’s definitely a possessive, “I own you” romance with a twist of kidnapping, and I am so here for it.
I absolutely loved the FMC in this book — there’s something so real about her. She’s relatable, funny, and strong in all the right ways. The Montclair crime family is at the center of this story, and honestly, I think I adore all the brothers. The plot is gripping, with a few surprises thrown in that I truly didn’t see coming.
The spice? Absolute fire. It’s steamy but tastefully done, adding to the chemistry and tension between the characters. The story and plotline feel believable for the world it’s set in, and I enjoyed every second of it. I’m already highly anticipating the next book — I need more of the Montclairs!
July 23, 2025
dnf
I liked the premise, and even though it was kind of insta-lovey, I enjoyed the start of the book. But it just got so bad after that.
At the beginning, the FMC was somewhat strong and didn’t let the MMC walk all over her. She stood her ground, argued with him, and didn’t let him get away with everything he wanted. But after a while, she was just like, “But he’s so hot,” and let him do whatever he wanted. I absolutely hated it.
I normally really like possessive MMCs, but Matthew was just bad. Allegedly, they were already halfway in love, but he still didn’t trust her. And when he eventually gave her phone back, he blocked the functions for making calls and sending messages. Are you kidding me? And she was just like, “OMG, he’s so nice. He even gave me my phone back.” Like, girl, get it together.
I liked the premise, and even though it was kind of insta-lovey, I enjoyed the start of the book. But it just got so bad after that.
At the beginning, the FMC was somewhat strong and didn’t let the MMC walk all over her. She stood her ground, argued with him, and didn’t let him get away with everything he wanted. But after a while, she was just like, “But he’s so hot,” and let him do whatever he wanted. I absolutely hated it.
I normally really like possessive MMCs, but Matthew was just bad. Allegedly, they were already halfway in love, but he still didn’t trust her. And when he eventually gave her phone back, he blocked the functions for making calls and sending messages. Are you kidding me? And she was just like, “OMG, he’s so nice. He even gave me my phone back.” Like, girl, get it together.
December 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2
I read this book so I would be familiar with the series. What exactly does that mean? Well I was lucky to be picked to ARC reader the third book of the series and the author suggested that I read the first two books.
This book hit the right notes for me. A morally gray MMC and a sarcastic FMC who is not afraid to stand up to anyone. The story of Matthias and Margot has the perfect combination of laughter, drama and spice. Both Matty and Margot unexpectedly find themselves in uncharted waters and I enjoyed watching them navigate their feelings for each other. And the puppy? Oh Benny Boo Boo is the best side character.
I read this book over two days on a weekend even though it’s approximately 400 pages; proving it kept me engaged and wanting more.
I read this book so I would be familiar with the series. What exactly does that mean? Well I was lucky to be picked to ARC reader the third book of the series and the author suggested that I read the first two books.
This book hit the right notes for me. A morally gray MMC and a sarcastic FMC who is not afraid to stand up to anyone. The story of Matthias and Margot has the perfect combination of laughter, drama and spice. Both Matty and Margot unexpectedly find themselves in uncharted waters and I enjoyed watching them navigate their feelings for each other. And the puppy? Oh Benny Boo Boo is the best side character.
I read this book over two days on a weekend even though it’s approximately 400 pages; proving it kept me engaged and wanting more.
December 31, 2025
This is my first book by Ellie Hallaron and I loved it! I loved the story of Margot & Matty. Margot had such a spunky personality and Matty was your typical man!
A couple of things that drove me nuts was the sweetheart, sweet girl comments on every page! It was a bit much. Margot at times seemed a little too immature.
I did love that she narrated books and wanted to continue working. I also adored Benny!!!!!
Overall, this was a quick read and a good read! Can’t wait to read book 2!
A couple of things that drove me nuts was the sweetheart, sweet girl comments on every page! It was a bit much. Margot at times seemed a little too immature.
I did love that she narrated books and wanted to continue working. I also adored Benny!!!!!
Overall, this was a quick read and a good read! Can’t wait to read book 2!
June 17, 2025
I am so ready for Innocent Intentions to come out!! The tension, the chaos, the romance!!! I had the opportunity to read this book as a beta reader and I was immediately obsessed. I have the strongest praises for this book and highly recommend it for those looking for a dark romance. The release date can’t come fast enough!
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