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Wounded King
My job is simple. Keep the patient alive.
Even when the patient is Marcello Orsi—NYC’s most feared mafia heir.
The moment he hit the ER, every nurse on the ICU floor refused to take him. I was the only one who didn’t run.
He came in with four bullets in his body and death on his heels.
He wasn’t supposed to survive.
But men like him don't give up, not even to death. And when his eyes land on me, it’s like I’m the reason he fought his way back—saying my name like it was always meant to be his.
I was just supposed to keep him alive. Not get pulled into his world. Not feel safe in his arms. Not fall.
But something from my past is stirring. Something I was never supposed to find.
And the moment it surfaces, I realize the only man who can protect me…
is the last man I should trust with my secrets.
I saved his life.
Now he might be the only one who can save mine.
Or destroy me.
*Wounded King is the second book in the Savage Kings of New York series.
A dark, explosive mafia romance with twisted loyalties, a hidden past, simmering obsession, and a dangerously possessive antihero.
Even when the patient is Marcello Orsi—NYC’s most feared mafia heir.
The moment he hit the ER, every nurse on the ICU floor refused to take him. I was the only one who didn’t run.
He came in with four bullets in his body and death on his heels.
He wasn’t supposed to survive.
But men like him don't give up, not even to death. And when his eyes land on me, it’s like I’m the reason he fought his way back—saying my name like it was always meant to be his.
I was just supposed to keep him alive. Not get pulled into his world. Not feel safe in his arms. Not fall.
But something from my past is stirring. Something I was never supposed to find.
And the moment it surfaces, I realize the only man who can protect me…
is the last man I should trust with my secrets.
I saved his life.
Now he might be the only one who can save mine.
Or destroy me.
*Wounded King is the second book in the Savage Kings of New York series.
A dark, explosive mafia romance with twisted loyalties, a hidden past, simmering obsession, and a dangerously possessive antihero.
- GenresMafia Romance
676 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 23, 2025
93 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 14, 2025
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.
Where do I started??? It was an unexpectedly amazing reading and it got me so engrossed that I couldn't put it down. It was a moment (I rarely have this thought) to call in sick so I could finish it. But as I'm not rich enough I had to pause it.
It is a mafia-nurse, dark, angsty romance with a hurt/comfort (which is in my top 3 favourite tropes). The writing is so smooth that you read like 50 pages and you don't even realise it. It has a couple of repetitive scenes that got me confused but I believe it's before editing so I passed them like a nuisance.
Though all are taking place in the span of a couple of months it feels like a slow burn as it describes everything from the surroundings to the feelings without making it tiresome. Especially in the beginning where the hero is in a coma.
I loved their relationship and I loved the connection between the heroine and the second in command (maybe we'll have his story with Pippa later in the series?). Also the side characters were well written and it filled the pages meaningful.
I loved that I felt all the feelings throughout these pages (I'm not usually fond of lengthy novels). It has angst, curiosity, sadness, betrayal, humour, happiness and now I've finished I don't know what to do with myself. Definitely going to check the rest of this Author's work as I'm really curious to see the rest of the Capos' stories. I mean who wouldn't be curious to read a story with a bomb in the wedding cake?
Where do I started??? It was an unexpectedly amazing reading and it got me so engrossed that I couldn't put it down. It was a moment (I rarely have this thought) to call in sick so I could finish it. But as I'm not rich enough I had to pause it.
It is a mafia-nurse, dark, angsty romance with a hurt/comfort (which is in my top 3 favourite tropes). The writing is so smooth that you read like 50 pages and you don't even realise it. It has a couple of repetitive scenes that got me confused but I believe it's before editing so I passed them like a nuisance.
Though all are taking place in the span of a couple of months it feels like a slow burn as it describes everything from the surroundings to the feelings without making it tiresome. Especially in the beginning where the hero is in a coma.
I loved their relationship and I loved the connection between the heroine and the second in command (maybe we'll have his story with Pippa later in the series?). Also the side characters were well written and it filled the pages meaningful.
I loved that I felt all the feelings throughout these pages (I'm not usually fond of lengthy novels). It has angst, curiosity, sadness, betrayal, humour, happiness and now I've finished I don't know what to do with myself. Definitely going to check the rest of this Author's work as I'm really curious to see the rest of the Capos' stories. I mean who wouldn't be curious to read a story with a bomb in the wedding cake?
November 1, 2025
ARC Review, thx Bella Ray
I was looking for a good mafia story with a doctor/nurse, but unfortunately, this book is also boring and unrealistic. Bella Ray is a new to me author, and I started with high expectations. Unfortunately, everything was over the top. I'm a nurse myself, and the injuries were far too pronounced. That's what makes the whole thing so unrealistic. A serious gunshot wound would have been enough. In my opinion, the book has too many pages, many of them filled with s@x, boring s@x. All in all, the book unfortunately didn't convince me. I won't post this review on Amazon so as not to disparage the author. The content is a matter of taste, and unfortunately, it doesn't suit my taste.
⭐️ 2/5
🌶 2/5
I was looking for a good mafia story with a doctor/nurse, but unfortunately, this book is also boring and unrealistic. Bella Ray is a new to me author, and I started with high expectations. Unfortunately, everything was over the top. I'm a nurse myself, and the injuries were far too pronounced. That's what makes the whole thing so unrealistic. A serious gunshot wound would have been enough. In my opinion, the book has too many pages, many of them filled with s@x, boring s@x. All in all, the book unfortunately didn't convince me. I won't post this review on Amazon so as not to disparage the author. The content is a matter of taste, and unfortunately, it doesn't suit my taste.
⭐️ 2/5
🌶 2/5
October 12, 2025
Wounded King had me hooked from the first page. Well, that wasn’t a simple job: nobody wanted it. Everyone was scared. Even Violet, but she never refuses to help, and that courage threw her straight into Marcello Orsi’s dangerous world.
Marcello isn’t just a mafia heir: he’s fire, obsession, and devotion all at once. Watching him fall for Violet, seeing her shake his world and make him feel, was thrilling, heartbreaking, and scorching. She made him recognize that what he felt for her was love. She made him feel.
This book has everything: betrayal, secrets, money, revenge, bullets, loyalty, love, non-stop tension, and steamy, scorching moments. Violet’s past, her hidden ancestry, and the chaos surrounding her make the story irresistible. And while I paused at how easily she accepted his money, she’s no gold digger; she’s real, proud, fierce, and has her own dreams which he helps make come true.
I devoured this almost 500-page book in one sitting... 400 pages gone before I realized it. I couldn’t put it down. The action, twists, and heat kept me glued. And just when I thought everything was going to be alright, another bad thing happened, and their world almost shattered!
Luciano and Alejandro stole my heart too; it’s always the men who get me!
The ending left me breathless. The enemies are gone (at least the ones they know about), but their ghosts linger. War is coming... and I cannot wait for Raffael’s story. But for now, they’ve got their happy ending!
Bella Ray outdid herself: dark, intense, emotional, addictive. Dark romance authors are truly outdoing themselves lately.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marcello isn’t just a mafia heir: he’s fire, obsession, and devotion all at once. Watching him fall for Violet, seeing her shake his world and make him feel, was thrilling, heartbreaking, and scorching. She made him recognize that what he felt for her was love. She made him feel.
This book has everything: betrayal, secrets, money, revenge, bullets, loyalty, love, non-stop tension, and steamy, scorching moments. Violet’s past, her hidden ancestry, and the chaos surrounding her make the story irresistible. And while I paused at how easily she accepted his money, she’s no gold digger; she’s real, proud, fierce, and has her own dreams which he helps make come true.
I devoured this almost 500-page book in one sitting... 400 pages gone before I realized it. I couldn’t put it down. The action, twists, and heat kept me glued. And just when I thought everything was going to be alright, another bad thing happened, and their world almost shattered!
Luciano and Alejandro stole my heart too; it’s always the men who get me!
The ending left me breathless. The enemies are gone (at least the ones they know about), but their ghosts linger. War is coming... and I cannot wait for Raffael’s story. But for now, they’ve got their happy ending!
Bella Ray outdid herself: dark, intense, emotional, addictive. Dark romance authors are truly outdoing themselves lately.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 7, 2025
This is the third book in the series, and I must say it was brutal in every way. The story revolves around Violet and Marcello, two characters whose paths cross when he is seriously injured and she, as a nurse, must take charge of caring for him until he recovers. However, nothing is as simple as it seems. Violet carries dark secrets from her past, secrets that should never have come to light and that now put her safety at risk. At the same time, the tricks and dangers of Marcello's world threaten both of their lives.
As Violet cares for Marcello, deep and inevitable feelings begin to develop between them. But she knows that the world he belongs to is dangerous, and that's why she tries to get away. However, fate brings them together again when Violet finds herself in grave danger and Marcello becomes her only protector. This time, he isn't willing to let her go so easily.
Throughout the plot, the two must fight together to survive and defend their love against everything that surrounds them. The revelation of Violet's true identity and the secrets surrounding her past were a complete surprise; they truly left me speechless.
I loved the relationship between the two: how their love grows little by little, how Marcello opens up and, at a crucial moment, tells Violet exactly what she needed to hear. And Violet loved her; she deserved to be happy, and in Marcello she found refuge, strength, and unconditional support.
Now, all I can say is that I'm eagerly awaiting the next book. Many truths were revealed in this book, and that leads us to what will happen in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As Violet cares for Marcello, deep and inevitable feelings begin to develop between them. But she knows that the world he belongs to is dangerous, and that's why she tries to get away. However, fate brings them together again when Violet finds herself in grave danger and Marcello becomes her only protector. This time, he isn't willing to let her go so easily.
Throughout the plot, the two must fight together to survive and defend their love against everything that surrounds them. The revelation of Violet's true identity and the secrets surrounding her past were a complete surprise; they truly left me speechless.
I loved the relationship between the two: how their love grows little by little, how Marcello opens up and, at a crucial moment, tells Violet exactly what she needed to hear. And Violet loved her; she deserved to be happy, and in Marcello she found refuge, strength, and unconditional support.
Now, all I can say is that I'm eagerly awaiting the next book. Many truths were revealed in this book, and that leads us to what will happen in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 17, 2025
The story started off strong with the patient/nurse storyline however my attention started to fade further into the story once feelings started to developed. It just felt very surface level. The spice was lukewarm and was quickly dismissed. It felt like a lot of filler, I think easily 200 pages or more can be removed. By the time I got to the epilogue and reading almost 600 pages the epilogue was a let down. Overall good concept just wasn’t for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 15, 2025
This one is Violet and Marcello's story and book three in the Savage Kings of New York series. Where the prior two stories were really good but had some flow issues, this one sailed right on through. It answered enough questions and left enough lose threads hanging that I'm not sure if they all will be wrapped up in the last book.
Violet is a strong female lead. Were the other two leads tended to hide their strength at times, it was simply a part of Violet. We meet her as an ICU nurse who accepts the assignment to be Marcello's nurse. She has to deal with his second in command (who grows on you - picture me begging for Lorenzo and Pippa's book PLEASE), his sister (she had her own issues), a doctor who was threatened, a "fiancé" who was comic relief and just disappeared, a mother (who the reader knew she was hiding something), and her patient who managed to fall for her during his stay.
Marcello made an appearance in book two. He's his own man who has a way of getting answers. He can't say he loves Violet but it's obvious to everyone. He wants answers and works with the other sons to move the organization forward.
Felix - he's an alpha cat who thinks he's a dog and loves to pester Alejandro and being spoiled by Zia Rosa. Warning when Alejandro comes back from shopping for him, do not be drinking or eating - I was laughing hysterically.
This one had equal romance/spice & business. Definitely worth a rare five star. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Violet is a strong female lead. Were the other two leads tended to hide their strength at times, it was simply a part of Violet. We meet her as an ICU nurse who accepts the assignment to be Marcello's nurse. She has to deal with his second in command (who grows on you - picture me begging for Lorenzo and Pippa's book PLEASE), his sister (she had her own issues), a doctor who was threatened, a "fiancé" who was comic relief and just disappeared, a mother (who the reader knew she was hiding something), and her patient who managed to fall for her during his stay.
Marcello made an appearance in book two. He's his own man who has a way of getting answers. He can't say he loves Violet but it's obvious to everyone. He wants answers and works with the other sons to move the organization forward.
Felix - he's an alpha cat who thinks he's a dog and loves to pester Alejandro and being spoiled by Zia Rosa. Warning when Alejandro comes back from shopping for him, do not be drinking or eating - I was laughing hysterically.
This one had equal romance/spice & business. Definitely worth a rare five star. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2025
Title: Wounded King (Savage Kings of New York: Book 3)
Author: Bella Ray
Review: This is the third instalment of the Savage Kings of New York series where we meet Marcello Orsi and nurse Violet.
You get a snippet from the previous book on Marcello, who has been shot and is rushed to hospital where he has a fierce nurse looking after him. Now we get the whole picture on how he ended up there. The timeline seems to coincide around the same timeframe for every book just different point of view on where each MMC and FMC are at the time.
After Marcello is betrayed by one of his own, he is left fighting for his life at the hospital with multiple gun shot wounds. Marcello is placed in a medically induced coma so his body has a chance to heal but just when you think things couldn't get any worse, men are sent to finish the job. With nurse Violet in charge of Marcello's recovery, she begins to form an emotional connection with him (even know he is asleep) and won't let anyone get in the way.
When Marcello wakes, he makes Violet an offer she can't refuse. Even know her mother strongly disagrees Violet agrees to be his outpatient nurse.
Their connection continues to grow and they can't deny the sexual chemistry between them.
Secrets never stay hidden in La Famiglia, with the men closing in on their Don and Violet's family history revealed, who will come out on top.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. There was so much to unpack, especially on Violet's side, but I was totally hooked from the first chapter. Just my personal opinion - I didn't really vibe with Violet's character and felt that their connection was more on the surface level. I did really love all the interconnecting players in this series, they pop in and out throughout. The smut was okay but a little repetitive at times. I can't wait for the next book in this series, it's going to be a heartbreaker I just know it!
Stars: 4.5/5 ★
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Recommend: Yes
Author: Bella Ray
Review: This is the third instalment of the Savage Kings of New York series where we meet Marcello Orsi and nurse Violet.
You get a snippet from the previous book on Marcello, who has been shot and is rushed to hospital where he has a fierce nurse looking after him. Now we get the whole picture on how he ended up there. The timeline seems to coincide around the same timeframe for every book just different point of view on where each MMC and FMC are at the time.
After Marcello is betrayed by one of his own, he is left fighting for his life at the hospital with multiple gun shot wounds. Marcello is placed in a medically induced coma so his body has a chance to heal but just when you think things couldn't get any worse, men are sent to finish the job. With nurse Violet in charge of Marcello's recovery, she begins to form an emotional connection with him (even know he is asleep) and won't let anyone get in the way.
When Marcello wakes, he makes Violet an offer she can't refuse. Even know her mother strongly disagrees Violet agrees to be his outpatient nurse.
Their connection continues to grow and they can't deny the sexual chemistry between them.
Secrets never stay hidden in La Famiglia, with the men closing in on their Don and Violet's family history revealed, who will come out on top.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. There was so much to unpack, especially on Violet's side, but I was totally hooked from the first chapter. Just my personal opinion - I didn't really vibe with Violet's character and felt that their connection was more on the surface level. I did really love all the interconnecting players in this series, they pop in and out throughout. The smut was okay but a little repetitive at times. I can't wait for the next book in this series, it's going to be a heartbreaker I just know it!
Stars: 4.5/5 ★
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Recommend: Yes
October 23, 2025
ropes insta-attraction, scarred/disabled hero, nurse/patient, class difference. Interconnected standalone.
Marcello and Violet. This is an interconnected standalone from Bella Ray. You do not need to read the other books to follow this story.
It starts with Marcello getting ambushed and shot. He is in a coma and some of the nurses are scared to care for him because he is very clearly mafia, and some of the staff have been threatened. Violet volunteers to be his nurse and keeps an eye out for him. Violet has to save him more than once from being killed while he’s comatose. Once he’s awake, he asks Violet to be his private at home nurse while he fully recovers. She agrees. She has a strange family dynamic with her mother and brother. Her mother is cagey about her father, always just saying he died. He is later revealed and the truth about her mother is unraveled, with help from Marcello.
There is action and suspense and a lot of hidden truths uncovered in this story. The spice is plentiful without being overbearing. You can not help but to love the main characters (and most of the side characters). It ends with the set up for the next book that I cannot wait to sink into. Bella has become one of my favorite authors.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marcello and Violet. This is an interconnected standalone from Bella Ray. You do not need to read the other books to follow this story.
It starts with Marcello getting ambushed and shot. He is in a coma and some of the nurses are scared to care for him because he is very clearly mafia, and some of the staff have been threatened. Violet volunteers to be his nurse and keeps an eye out for him. Violet has to save him more than once from being killed while he’s comatose. Once he’s awake, he asks Violet to be his private at home nurse while he fully recovers. She agrees. She has a strange family dynamic with her mother and brother. Her mother is cagey about her father, always just saying he died. He is later revealed and the truth about her mother is unraveled, with help from Marcello.
There is action and suspense and a lot of hidden truths uncovered in this story. The spice is plentiful without being overbearing. You can not help but to love the main characters (and most of the side characters). It ends with the set up for the next book that I cannot wait to sink into. Bella has become one of my favorite authors.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 22, 2025
Affinity Star read!!!!!! 💫
Loved this book!!!!
It is one of my favorites for the year. And I also couldn’t put this book down because I love it that much and I wanted to see what happens next in the book.📖
First I want to thank the author Bella Ray and Booksprout for giving me an ARC of this book.
I didn’t really like Violet’s mom and that she didn’t tell Violet and her siblings about their father.
I liked her siblings Elaine and Sebastian in this book.📖
I liked that Violet saved Marcello’s life at the hospital where she worked at and also was his nurse at his house too. I love Marcello’s sister Sophia but I felt sad when she was hurt in this book. I liked Luciano Marcello’s right hand man and how he was with Violet more into the book. I hated Marcello’s father Carlos in this book and also how he treated Violet in the beginning of the book. Didn’t like Mina and how she treated Violet and wouldn’t leave Marcello alone but then he made her leave.
I loved Marcello’s nickname for Violet was Chirps because it reminded of birds chittering when he was in a coma. I liked Marcello’s housekeeper Zia Rosa in this book too. And I was happy when they fell in love together. I loved Violet’s friend Pippa too. And I loved how violet took care of other people when she was at Marcello’s house. I was so happy when Violet and her siblings meant their father again and began a relationship with him again. I loved how Marcello protected Violet throughout this book too. I didn’t like the bad guys in this book. And I was so happy they got a happy ending together and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series and other books by this author. I recommend this book and series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Loved this book!!!!
It is one of my favorites for the year. And I also couldn’t put this book down because I love it that much and I wanted to see what happens next in the book.📖
First I want to thank the author Bella Ray and Booksprout for giving me an ARC of this book.
I didn’t really like Violet’s mom and that she didn’t tell Violet and her siblings about their father.
I liked her siblings Elaine and Sebastian in this book.📖
I liked that Violet saved Marcello’s life at the hospital where she worked at and also was his nurse at his house too. I love Marcello’s sister Sophia but I felt sad when she was hurt in this book. I liked Luciano Marcello’s right hand man and how he was with Violet more into the book. I hated Marcello’s father Carlos in this book and also how he treated Violet in the beginning of the book. Didn’t like Mina and how she treated Violet and wouldn’t leave Marcello alone but then he made her leave.
I loved Marcello’s nickname for Violet was Chirps because it reminded of birds chittering when he was in a coma. I liked Marcello’s housekeeper Zia Rosa in this book too. And I was happy when they fell in love together. I loved Violet’s friend Pippa too. And I loved how violet took care of other people when she was at Marcello’s house. I was so happy when Violet and her siblings meant their father again and began a relationship with him again. I loved how Marcello protected Violet throughout this book too. I didn’t like the bad guys in this book. And I was so happy they got a happy ending together and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series and other books by this author. I recommend this book and series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 8, 2025
"That smile of hers is absolutely devastating. It wreaks havoc with my entire system"
Oh my heart. I have a soft spot for mafia romances. This I read as a standalone even though it's part of a series. I didn't feel lost or confused at all and I didn't feel like I was missing any puzzle pieces so I think it's safe to say if you haven't read the others it'll be ok. (I will definitely be going back and reading the others)
I loved Violet! She is relatable and her inner dialogue made me laugh especially when she argues with herself. Marcello is a strong MMC. he had me 🥵. "She's going to make me feel something, isn't she?" Yes yes she is.. I thoroughly enjoyed reading his perspective and witnessing him falling for violet. His protectiveness over her had me swooning. Luciando is great too. The banter throughout with everyone is really good!
There's multiple storylines to this which I enjoyed. It kept the book fast paced and busy so there wasn't a boring moment.
Thank you booksprout for my free advance copy. I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
Oh my heart. I have a soft spot for mafia romances. This I read as a standalone even though it's part of a series. I didn't feel lost or confused at all and I didn't feel like I was missing any puzzle pieces so I think it's safe to say if you haven't read the others it'll be ok. (I will definitely be going back and reading the others)
I loved Violet! She is relatable and her inner dialogue made me laugh especially when she argues with herself. Marcello is a strong MMC. he had me 🥵. "She's going to make me feel something, isn't she?" Yes yes she is.. I thoroughly enjoyed reading his perspective and witnessing him falling for violet. His protectiveness over her had me swooning. Luciando is great too. The banter throughout with everyone is really good!
There's multiple storylines to this which I enjoyed. It kept the book fast paced and busy so there wasn't a boring moment.
Thank you booksprout for my free advance copy. I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
October 13, 2025
Buckle up because you are going for a Ride! Marcello and Violet's book was everything I hoped it would be and more..so much more! When Marcello is gunned down and taken to the hospital Violet, an ICU nurse, is called in because everyone else is a fraud to take care of him. While she is caring for him she is threatened, she protects him and she starts falling for him. When he is released from the hospital Marcello hires Violet to be his private nurse while he recovers. From there adventure and action happens...a lot of it! Along with some steamy action. I loved this book and I love this series! The characters are so well written and so richly developed I can't help but love them. The story is gripping and exciting. Always leading you somewhere you didn't expect. Bella Ray has done a masterful job of keeping each book complete in itself while maintaining the golden thread or plot that runs through them all keeping them connected. I really can't wait for the next book...Raffael and Sophia's story Shadow King. Happy reading!
October 7, 2025
Violet has no information about her father. All she knows is that he died. Her job as a ICU nurse brings her into the mafia world. Someone wanted Marcello dead. He has been shot in the head and body. In the ICU ward, Violet is his nurse and eventually as his private nurse when he is discharged.
This book pulls the reader in and holds your attention until the very end. The characters are well drawn and very enjoyable. Violet is a smart, honest and very feisty woman. Marcello is a possessive man who has been attracted to Violet from the beginning. They have extreme chemistry and it appears on the pages! You can easily envision the many secondary characters from Luciano, Sophia and even Mina! I enjoyed the banter between the characters and the interactions gave the characters more depth.
This is a new author for me and I am glad I found another author to follow.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book pulls the reader in and holds your attention until the very end. The characters are well drawn and very enjoyable. Violet is a smart, honest and very feisty woman. Marcello is a possessive man who has been attracted to Violet from the beginning. They have extreme chemistry and it appears on the pages! You can easily envision the many secondary characters from Luciano, Sophia and even Mina! I enjoyed the banter between the characters and the interactions gave the characters more depth.
This is a new author for me and I am glad I found another author to follow.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 15, 2025
I’ve been impatiently waiting for this book, & it hasn’t disappointed!
I love the dynamic between Violet & Marcello. She’s the only nurse brave enough to take Marcello on as a patient after he’s been gunned down. Marcello’s scary bodyguard might frighten her, but Violet has fire in her belly, & Luciano isn’t enough to make her back down.
But even as Violet begins to fall for her patient, she can’t seem to talk herself out of it. When Marcello finally wakes from his coma & sets his eyes on Violet, he knows he has to have her - & have her he does! There are some amazing spicy scenes ❤️🔥
The plot twists hidden in this book are genius, & each one leaves you stunned whilst simultaneously answering questions you had.
Wounded King is a fabulous mafia dark romance with a highly possessive & obsessive MMC, the most innocent & fiery nurse FMC, & the cat that’s like a dog & will defend himself at all costs 😂
I love the dynamic between Violet & Marcello. She’s the only nurse brave enough to take Marcello on as a patient after he’s been gunned down. Marcello’s scary bodyguard might frighten her, but Violet has fire in her belly, & Luciano isn’t enough to make her back down.
But even as Violet begins to fall for her patient, she can’t seem to talk herself out of it. When Marcello finally wakes from his coma & sets his eyes on Violet, he knows he has to have her - & have her he does! There are some amazing spicy scenes ❤️🔥
The plot twists hidden in this book are genius, & each one leaves you stunned whilst simultaneously answering questions you had.
Wounded King is a fabulous mafia dark romance with a highly possessive & obsessive MMC, the most innocent & fiery nurse FMC, & the cat that’s like a dog & will defend himself at all costs 😂
October 31, 2025
Dark Mafia Romance at its Best!!
Someone is trying to kill Marcello Orsi. Shortly after we “meet” him, he is in the hospital with multiple gunshot wounds. Violet is his ICU nurse. Many have declined taking Marcello as their patient, and her mother is not thrilled, but she is drawn to the man who has a presence even in a coma.
As she cares for him, and talks to him, her voice cuts through the darkness. Marcello nicknames her Chrips for the sweet birdlike sound of her voice that helped him to recover. The chemistry is real, though inappropriate. When he leaves the hospital early, he makes her an offer she cannot refuse to continue as his private nurse.
Politics, family, complications, a snarky cat, a feisty best friend, HGTV home makeovers, death threats and danger from unexpected places. A robust read, thoroughly entertaining, and engaging. Divine!
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
Someone is trying to kill Marcello Orsi. Shortly after we “meet” him, he is in the hospital with multiple gunshot wounds. Violet is his ICU nurse. Many have declined taking Marcello as their patient, and her mother is not thrilled, but she is drawn to the man who has a presence even in a coma.
As she cares for him, and talks to him, her voice cuts through the darkness. Marcello nicknames her Chrips for the sweet birdlike sound of her voice that helped him to recover. The chemistry is real, though inappropriate. When he leaves the hospital early, he makes her an offer she cannot refuse to continue as his private nurse.
Politics, family, complications, a snarky cat, a feisty best friend, HGTV home makeovers, death threats and danger from unexpected places. A robust read, thoroughly entertaining, and engaging. Divine!
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
November 5, 2025
The banter between Violet and Marcelo crackles with wit and tension, making their chemistry impossible to ignore. The story is packed with twists, emotional depth, and plenty of spice, while the side characters add richness and dimension to the dark, dangerous world they inhabit.
Bella Ray does a great job of peeling back the layers of both Violet and Marcelo, showing how their vulnerabilities and strength intertwine as their relationship evolves. I did wish for a bit more detail about Violet’s mother and her “side life,” which felt slightly underexplored.
This is the second book in the Savage Kings series, and while it connects beautifully with the larger world, it can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone—you’ll just appreciate the details even more if you’ve read the first.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bella Ray does a great job of peeling back the layers of both Violet and Marcelo, showing how their vulnerabilities and strength intertwine as their relationship evolves. I did wish for a bit more detail about Violet’s mother and her “side life,” which felt slightly underexplored.
This is the second book in the Savage Kings series, and while it connects beautifully with the larger world, it can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone—you’ll just appreciate the details even more if you’ve read the first.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 17, 2025
Sit down and get ready for a really fast ride as this story is not one that you can leave alone fir long.
Violet is the nurse in charge of him and on awakening he is told just how she has saved his life even getting hurt in the process.
Employed and working as his private nurse but a nurse and a very steamy love affair behinds.
First things first is working out who tried to kill him and then dealing with them accordingly, fish bate, but then he is a mob boss with a lot of clout.
The killings still keep coming, a father Violet thought dead is very much alive and a sister missing with no clue as to where she us.
I found this story has it all as you could want in a mafia romance, killing, threats, revenge but so much love.
Violet is the nurse in charge of him and on awakening he is told just how she has saved his life even getting hurt in the process.
Employed and working as his private nurse but a nurse and a very steamy love affair behinds.
First things first is working out who tried to kill him and then dealing with them accordingly, fish bate, but then he is a mob boss with a lot of clout.
The killings still keep coming, a father Violet thought dead is very much alive and a sister missing with no clue as to where she us.
I found this story has it all as you could want in a mafia romance, killing, threats, revenge but so much love.
October 31, 2025
I received a copy for my honest review, and as a new author to me, I was not disappointed. I picked up Wounded King expecting high stakes—and it delivers. The story throws us into the gritty underworld of New York, where Marcello Orsi, wounded, dangerous, and more monster than man, must rely on Violet, the nurse who refuses to walk away when everyone else does. Their connection comes fast, fierce, and fraught with secrets. I appreciated how Ray leans into the “dark mafia romance” tropes (possessive anti-hero, forced proximity, hidden pasts) with energy and unapologetic heat.
If you’re looking for something gentle… this is not it. But if you’re ready to be pulled into a dangerous, obsessive love story with heart beneath the chaos, this one hits hard.
If you’re looking for something gentle… this is not it. But if you’re ready to be pulled into a dangerous, obsessive love story with heart beneath the chaos, this one hits hard.
November 1, 2025
Review draft
This is an ARC Review ❤️ and may contain spoilers!
5⭐️s!!!
This is the 3rd book in this series. I LOVED reading Marcello & Violets’ story. 😍😍
The book starts with Marcello in the hospital after being shot and is in a coma. All of the nurses are scared to take care of the very obviously mafia tied patient In comes Violet. She not only steps up to take care of him, but saves his life more than once while he is incapacitated!
There are tons of twists and turns, the book will keep you on the edge of your seat!
You will love this if you want:
⭐️Touch Her and Die Vibes 🥵
⭐️Dark themes
⭐️Possessive MMC
⭐️Mafia
⭐️Suspense
⭐️Forced Proximity
⭐️Nurse/Patient
This is an ARC Review ❤️ and may contain spoilers!
5⭐️s!!!
This is the 3rd book in this series. I LOVED reading Marcello & Violets’ story. 😍😍
The book starts with Marcello in the hospital after being shot and is in a coma. All of the nurses are scared to take care of the very obviously mafia tied patient In comes Violet. She not only steps up to take care of him, but saves his life more than once while he is incapacitated!
There are tons of twists and turns, the book will keep you on the edge of your seat!
You will love this if you want:
⭐️Touch Her and Die Vibes 🥵
⭐️Dark themes
⭐️Possessive MMC
⭐️Mafia
⭐️Suspense
⭐️Forced Proximity
⭐️Nurse/Patient
November 8, 2025
I absolutely love the beginning of this book - up until he brings her home for good. Their first night together is pretty steamy, but I don't remember much of the spice after that.
We get more of the underlying plot tying the Kings together in this book, but it feels a little clunky. I started to lose interest when she began weaving all the characters in from other books, which took away from the MCs story. I liked Marcello and Violet, but I loved Lucciano and was sad that he was faded out of the latter part of the book.
Also, what gives with the first italicized sentence in each chapter telling us how long it's been since the end of the previous chapter, only to have the time frame reiterated in the next sentence? I don't know why that bothered me - drove me crazy!!!
We get more of the underlying plot tying the Kings together in this book, but it feels a little clunky. I started to lose interest when she began weaving all the characters in from other books, which took away from the MCs story. I liked Marcello and Violet, but I loved Lucciano and was sad that he was faded out of the latter part of the book.
Also, what gives with the first italicized sentence in each chapter telling us how long it's been since the end of the previous chapter, only to have the time frame reiterated in the next sentence? I don't know why that bothered me - drove me crazy!!!
October 11, 2025
This is book 3 of Savage Kings of New York. What starts out as taking care of an injured mob boss becomes so much more. This is a compelling story of violence, death and destruction where your enemies might be closer than you think. Violet is a nurse who is now caring for Marcella. She should fear him but only grows closer. My favorite part of this story is the surprises the author has for the readers. This is a book I didn't want to put down and now find myself wanting to go back and read the first 2 books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 23, 2025
Well, this book was a pleasant surprise.
It was my first time reading this author's work, and it certainly won't be my last.
The book is not one of the shorter ones (550 pages), but it wasn't boring at all, which is helped by some witty dialogue. The writing and story flow are very enjoyable and fluid.
The multiple plots and multiple characters in the story make the book interesting. You quickly fall in love with the main male and female characters, and the chemistry between them is genuine. I like the author's writing, and I'll look for more of her books. If you enjoy reading mafia books and morally gray men, this book is definitely for you.
It was my first time reading this author's work, and it certainly won't be my last.
The book is not one of the shorter ones (550 pages), but it wasn't boring at all, which is helped by some witty dialogue. The writing and story flow are very enjoyable and fluid.
The multiple plots and multiple characters in the story make the book interesting. You quickly fall in love with the main male and female characters, and the chemistry between them is genuine. I like the author's writing, and I'll look for more of her books. If you enjoy reading mafia books and morally gray men, this book is definitely for you.
November 1, 2025
Thank you Booksprout and @bellarayromance for this arc.
This is a new author for me and I was pleasantly surprised with this mafia romance.
This starts out with a bang.. literally!
Marcello, a mafia heir gets shot and Violet is a ICU nurse who agrees to take care of him. He ends up in a coma and Violet ends up being hired as his private nurse.
Marcello protects Violet and her cat to start with, then ends up protecting her family due to betrayals and of course shocking secrets.
This book is full of action, angst, healing, mafia heir& ICU nurse, family, and spice!
Story 4.5⭐️
Characters: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 3🌶️.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a new author for me and I was pleasantly surprised with this mafia romance.
This starts out with a bang.. literally!
Marcello, a mafia heir gets shot and Violet is a ICU nurse who agrees to take care of him. He ends up in a coma and Violet ends up being hired as his private nurse.
Marcello protects Violet and her cat to start with, then ends up protecting her family due to betrayals and of course shocking secrets.
This book is full of action, angst, healing, mafia heir& ICU nurse, family, and spice!
Story 4.5⭐️
Characters: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 3🌶️.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2025
This was not for me. It seems to me that I should have read the previous books first. This book was way too long for absolutely no reason. It was so boring. It started off good and I thought it was going to go somewhere and it did not. The sex was boring. I couldn't get into Violet being okay with killing so quickly and vocal about it since she is a nurse. Entirely too many characters that disrupted the flow of the storyline. The repetitive chapters. The story continues into the next book which I will not be reading.
November 1, 2025
This is a must read for mafia romance lovers. This book is really well written. The beginning pulled me and the action kept me hooked. I was genuinely interested in every aspect of the story. The main characters were interesting and dynamic. They were clearly well thought out. As a romance novel, I was surprised by how interesting the power struggle was. I want to keep reading and find out more about the world Bella Ray has created.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 10, 2025
Violet is a nurse dedicated to her profession and probably why she was only one to take on Marcello when he came in with wounds that should have been his end. But soon shes dragged into the criminal world he thrives in, but her past isnt so easy to get away from either. As sparks fly will Marcello be able to kee her safe and his? Well written engaging steamy desires drama action and more a great addition to the series
Read
October 24, 2025Oh my gosh - absolutely loved this book. Best one in this series so far and I’m so in love with Marcello. His love story with Violet is so sweet and yet holds just as much spice and heat as the 2 previous books. This one is thigh clenchingly good and I can’t wait to see what comes on Book 4. Fabulous Bella Ray - you are becoming a firm favourite.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2025
ICU nurse Violet tends comatose Marcello, then becomes his private nurse. Attacks force him to shield her—and her cat. Shocking family secrets explode, pulling them closer as Marcello discovers real love. His hesitation to confess nearly costs everything when Violet is gravely injured in a ambush. Jaw-dropping thrill ride.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 20, 2025
Violet & Marcello
Love Luciano & Pippa
Written in both H/h poin of view. Sometimes when i read Marcello part for his mind related to his feelings about Violet, i get the “girl” vibe not the macho mafia man that able to kill someone with his bare hands. Feel the contradiction in his character.
There’s no chapter number but at the heading is ikon/logo hanging cat (this supposedly “Felix” the cat) it is for Violet and Phoenix for Marcello
Love Luciano & Pippa
Written in both H/h poin of view. Sometimes when i read Marcello part for his mind related to his feelings about Violet, i get the “girl” vibe not the macho mafia man that able to kill someone with his bare hands. Feel the contradiction in his character.
There’s no chapter number but at the heading is ikon/logo hanging cat (this supposedly “Felix” the cat) it is for Violet and Phoenix for Marcello
December 26, 2025
Could've been better
## I liked this, but didn't love it. Mainly because there were just too many characters. All the Dons and Capos.... dozens of characters. Probably setting up future books. Maybe even a past series. However, it definitely took attention away from THIS book. I DID however like the romance. Both hero and heroine were interesting characters and had fabulous chemistry.
## I liked this, but didn't love it. Mainly because there were just too many characters. All the Dons and Capos.... dozens of characters. Probably setting up future books. Maybe even a past series. However, it definitely took attention away from THIS book. I DID however like the romance. Both hero and heroine were interesting characters and had fabulous chemistry.
October 19, 2025
Loved it!!
OMG, Loved reading Wounded King. This book was so good I couldn’t put it down. So many twist and turns and action packed too. The chemistry between Violet and Marcello was spicy and super HOT. Loved their story and can’t wait for the next book Shadow King, Raffael and Sophia’s story to come out!!
OMG, Loved reading Wounded King. This book was so good I couldn’t put it down. So many twist and turns and action packed too. The chemistry between Violet and Marcello was spicy and super HOT. Loved their story and can’t wait for the next book Shadow King, Raffael and Sophia’s story to come out!!
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