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The Russo Mafia #2
The Favor Collector
I never should have stolen from the mafia. But the gorgeous, scarred stranger I had a one-night-stand with didn’t come with a last name—he came with my name on his lips.
And like the irresponsible menace I am, I walked out with the one thing I shouldn’t have touched.
The worst part is he comes for me. Matteo doesn’t forgive or forget. He corners me. Gives me an ultimatum with consequences I can’t escape. Then collects the favor I now owe him.
The favor? Pretend to be his girlfriend while he hunts the mole whose betrayal almost got him killed last year.
And it should be simple. But nothing about Matteo is.
Each touch turns into a claim, each kiss into something possessive. It doesn’t take long before I can’t tell where the performance ends and our obsession begins.
Matteo Russo isn’t just a man—he’s the very fire that’s tried to kill him twice. And me… I’m the moth that can’t resist the tattooed and scarred flame.
The Favor Collector is the second book in the Russo Mafia series, featuring the Russo family. Each book is a standalone with a HEA. This is a spicy dark mafia, favor-driven, possessive antihero romance, which features explicit scenes of both a violent and a sexual nature.
And like the irresponsible menace I am, I walked out with the one thing I shouldn’t have touched.
The worst part is he comes for me. Matteo doesn’t forgive or forget. He corners me. Gives me an ultimatum with consequences I can’t escape. Then collects the favor I now owe him.
The favor? Pretend to be his girlfriend while he hunts the mole whose betrayal almost got him killed last year.
And it should be simple. But nothing about Matteo is.
Each touch turns into a claim, each kiss into something possessive. It doesn’t take long before I can’t tell where the performance ends and our obsession begins.
Matteo Russo isn’t just a man—he’s the very fire that’s tried to kill him twice. And me… I’m the moth that can’t resist the tattooed and scarred flame.
The Favor Collector is the second book in the Russo Mafia series, featuring the Russo family. Each book is a standalone with a HEA. This is a spicy dark mafia, favor-driven, possessive antihero romance, which features explicit scenes of both a violent and a sexual nature.
343 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 15, 2026
41 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
About the author
B. Lybaek
33 books436 followersBibi is a dark romance author who is addicted to coffee, Piña coladas, and chocolate... all the beautiful things that make life go around.
She loves talking about herself in third person, it makes her feel special. She lives in the North East of England, in a small town no one has ever heard of. Her household (herself and her boyfriend of 10 years) is ruled by their feline mistress who puts the 'tude in Tortitude.
Bibi recently changed her pen name from Ren Blakely to B. Lybaek. A pure vanity move as she wanted to see her real name on her books #NamesMatters
You can find Bibi all over the internet.. probably procrastinating.
https://linktr.ee/b.lybaek
She loves talking about herself in third person, it makes her feel special. She lives in the North East of England, in a small town no one has ever heard of. Her household (herself and her boyfriend of 10 years) is ruled by their feline mistress who puts the 'tude in Tortitude.
Bibi recently changed her pen name from Ren Blakely to B. Lybaek. A pure vanity move as she wanted to see her real name on her books #NamesMatters
You can find Bibi all over the internet.. probably procrastinating.
https://linktr.ee/b.lybaek
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
January 15, 2026
The roller coaster these two went on is my new favorite ride. 😍😎🥵
February 1, 2026
Mafia Enforcer - Matteo's prologue at the beginning of this book gave us a much needed taste of his background story to kinda understand his way of thinking throughout it. In turn it played off perfectly with Raven's sarcastic and witty energy. One steamy night together and one stolen memento led to Matteo to offer Raven an opportunity that she couldn't ignore. Becoming his girlfriend to help him weed out a mole. Only it brought on some hilarious scenarios including meeting Matteo's cousins. Which was just comedy gold and had me cracking up laughing. I just loved this book. It was a killer read.
February 2, 2026
⭐️4🌶️3💧0
This is book 2 in the series but can absolutely be read as a standalone.
I fell in love with these two almost instantly! It was a thoroughly enjoyable right from the start. It really makes a good book when the characters have great chemistry and banter- and these two have just that!! The book is fast paced and will be over before you realise, leaving you wanting more!!
#fakedating #ons #mafiaromance #possessivemmc
This is book 2 in the series but can absolutely be read as a standalone.
I fell in love with these two almost instantly! It was a thoroughly enjoyable right from the start. It really makes a good book when the characters have great chemistry and banter- and these two have just that!! The book is fast paced and will be over before you realise, leaving you wanting more!!
#fakedating #ons #mafiaromance #possessivemmc
January 15, 2026
4.25⭐️
I really enjoyed this story! These two characters I fell in love with! This story sucked me in from the beginning and didn’t let me go until the end! I thoroughly enjoyed this story! I highly recommend!
I really enjoyed this story! These two characters I fell in love with! This story sucked me in from the beginning and didn’t let me go until the end! I thoroughly enjoyed this story! I highly recommend!
January 31, 2026
Loved Raven and Matteo's story. The story is dark, sexy, and their banter is so good. I love that Raven is a headstrong FMC and Matteo recognizes it and is able to be possessive but not stifling!
I am loving this series and can't wait to read more!
I am loving this series and can't wait to read more!
January 5, 2026
There’s no lighter way to trap a woman 🔥
Raven, has moved back the US from France and acquires a job with a PR company. Hosting a venue for her work, she meets a rather unforgettable man and goes home with him. She also suffers from kleptomania taking little items from the men she sleeps with, except this time she’s taken something of sentimental value from Matteo Russo. He tracks her down and gives her two options, 10 favors or 1 specific favor. Caught between a rock and a hard place, Raven is pulled into Matteo’s world of fire and destruction!
𝙽𝚘𝚙𝚎. 𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚍𝚎𝚊𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚗𝚘𝚠.
𝙿𝚒𝚗 𝚒𝚝.
I enjoyed this one more than the first, loved Raven’s comebacks and the fact she ‘pins’ thoughts in her head. Matteo comes across hardened to life but his soft side for her 🫠 The spice in this one seemed spicier than the first 🌶️. I did find it a little predictable but the story flowed so well and kept me turning the pages. Though they can be read as standalone, the characters are interconnected which I liked kept the family in your head.
Raven, has moved back the US from France and acquires a job with a PR company. Hosting a venue for her work, she meets a rather unforgettable man and goes home with him. She also suffers from kleptomania taking little items from the men she sleeps with, except this time she’s taken something of sentimental value from Matteo Russo. He tracks her down and gives her two options, 10 favors or 1 specific favor. Caught between a rock and a hard place, Raven is pulled into Matteo’s world of fire and destruction!
𝙽𝚘𝚙𝚎. 𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚍𝚎𝚊𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚗𝚘𝚠.
𝙿𝚒𝚗 𝚒𝚝.
I enjoyed this one more than the first, loved Raven’s comebacks and the fact she ‘pins’ thoughts in her head. Matteo comes across hardened to life but his soft side for her 🫠 The spice in this one seemed spicier than the first 🌶️. I did find it a little predictable but the story flowed so well and kept me turning the pages. Though they can be read as standalone, the characters are interconnected which I liked kept the family in your head.
January 21, 2026
The Favor Collector is spicy, witty, and unputdownable. It is the second book in The Russo Mafia Series. The book is a standalone but I recommend reading The Toy Collector first because you do get to revisit a few characters. Plus it is an amazing read as well. But The Favor Collector is written so well you won't be lost. Raven has a one night stand with a sexy, scarred, tatted, dangerous, stranger. After her phenomenal night she decides to sneak out and take a momento. It turns out said object is very important to the man. And the man just so happens to be Matteo Russo, the enforcer of The Russo Mafia. Matteo demands his property back as well as a favor in return. Matteo and Raven are one of my favorite couples. Raven is feisty, confident, and hilarious. She is not intimidated by anyone and easily adapts to the mafia lifestyle. She also introduced me to mental pins. Matteo is obsessive, possessive, dominant, and absolutely delicious! The spice, banter, and pure chemistry between Little Thief and Firestarter is perfection. It also doesn't hurt that he is in charge of a spicy club and decides to fulfill some of her fantasies. Although I loved the last book I loved Matteo and Raven more! I can't wait to see what happens in The Debt Collector.
January 15, 2026
A FAVOR WORTH OWING!
The Russo Mafia Series from B. Lybaek continues with The Favor Collector it kicks off with heat and a bang and it doesn't slow down for anyone. With thieving, assassination attempts, duplicity and hidden agendas, what this story doesn’t have is time for the reader to sleep! Matteo Russo is a complex enforcer mafia man, gathering favors to call in when he deems it prudent but when he meets Raven, neither are prepared for the chemistry, the connection and possessive feelings that ignites like a C4 explosive. Matteo's past is coming back to haunt him and Raven is caught in the crossfire, how these two navigate the treacherous mafia world and their developing feelings is a story any reader will love to stay up late for. The banter and witty repertoire between not just the main characters but with the extended cast brings the balance of lightheartedness to the dark and gritty story of a little thief and her firestarter.
The Russo Mafia Series from B. Lybaek continues with The Favor Collector it kicks off with heat and a bang and it doesn't slow down for anyone. With thieving, assassination attempts, duplicity and hidden agendas, what this story doesn’t have is time for the reader to sleep! Matteo Russo is a complex enforcer mafia man, gathering favors to call in when he deems it prudent but when he meets Raven, neither are prepared for the chemistry, the connection and possessive feelings that ignites like a C4 explosive. Matteo's past is coming back to haunt him and Raven is caught in the crossfire, how these two navigate the treacherous mafia world and their developing feelings is a story any reader will love to stay up late for. The banter and witty repertoire between not just the main characters but with the extended cast brings the balance of lightheartedness to the dark and gritty story of a little thief and her firestarter.
January 15, 2026
There’s no relaxing and taking it easy with this book.. it’s edge of your seat stuff from start to finish! The reader is thrown into Matteo’s world from the first page and, before long, Raven also becomes part of it but she is able to give as good as she gets!
I loved these two main characters, “Firestarter” and “Little Thief” are just the perfect names for them and they compliment each other so well. I was glad to see that, at times, Raven was able to surprise Matteo, something that he definitely didn’t seem used to. He just can’t keep away though and would happily burn the world down for her.
There is an undercurrent of tension and suspense running through the book together with some super spicy scenes and unexpected twists. However, there are also scenes that caused me to smile, especially those including some of Raven’s humorous and witty comments. The final epilogue was a perfect ending.
Thank you for the early copy.
I loved these two main characters, “Firestarter” and “Little Thief” are just the perfect names for them and they compliment each other so well. I was glad to see that, at times, Raven was able to surprise Matteo, something that he definitely didn’t seem used to. He just can’t keep away though and would happily burn the world down for her.
There is an undercurrent of tension and suspense running through the book together with some super spicy scenes and unexpected twists. However, there are also scenes that caused me to smile, especially those including some of Raven’s humorous and witty comments. The final epilogue was a perfect ending.
Thank you for the early copy.
January 15, 2026
He collects favors, and he came to collect
The Favor Collector
ARC reead
I have not read a mafia romance where our FMC steals from him......
Blurb
I never should have stolen from the mafia. But the gorgeous, scarred stranger I had a one-night stand with didn't come with a last name- he came with my name on his lips.
This entire read had me hooked. Our FMC has a attitude and is witty.
Our scarred and tatted MMC he likes to collect things. Mainly favors that he can use at a later time. Let's just say his newest favor comes with some perks and a attitude.
He is hell bent on finding out who wants him deleted and he is having a dang good time while he does it.
This was a fun read. I enjoyed every pages. The witty comebacks from both had me rolling. The suspense leaves you wanting more. You need to add this to your TBR
It is apart of the Russo Mafia series.
The Favor Collector
ARC reead
I have not read a mafia romance where our FMC steals from him......
Blurb
I never should have stolen from the mafia. But the gorgeous, scarred stranger I had a one-night stand with didn't come with a last name- he came with my name on his lips.
This entire read had me hooked. Our FMC has a attitude and is witty.
Our scarred and tatted MMC he likes to collect things. Mainly favors that he can use at a later time. Let's just say his newest favor comes with some perks and a attitude.
He is hell bent on finding out who wants him deleted and he is having a dang good time while he does it.
This was a fun read. I enjoyed every pages. The witty comebacks from both had me rolling. The suspense leaves you wanting more. You need to add this to your TBR
It is apart of the Russo Mafia series.
January 20, 2026
The Favor Collector ; The Russo Mafia Series Book 2 ) Dark Mafia , Fake Dating, One Night Stand !!! Dark , delicious and Uttely addictive. That’s exactly what Matteos and Ravens story was and is . I have to say these two just might be my absolute favorite couple so far. It all starts with one unforgettable steamy one night stand and a stolen keepsake . Raven gets pulled into Matteos world and from that moment on everything is turned on its axis . The feelings that start to develop between them and the insane chemistry they share ( omg ) you could literally feel the steam and the sparks coming right off the pages . I loved these two so so much. All the different layers to their characters as well as the complexities in their relationship. All the twists and turns and secrets , the drama and the obstacles, the love , the passion, the humor and witty banter . I seriously could devour it fast enough.
January 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was my first time reading B. Lybaek, and it definitely won’t be my last. The writing style is easy-flowing, engaging, and makes the story fly by.
Raven and Matteo were such a perfect match. Their chemistry was off the charts from the start, and I loved that Raven wasn’t the typical shy, reserved heroine—she can truly hold her own. The relationship developed naturally, with that delicious “touch her/him and die” vibe, and their banter had me laughing out loud in parts. Their dynamic was both sweet and fun, and I couldn’t get enough of them together.
The only thing I wished for was more interaction with the cousins, because they added an interesting layer and I would’ve loved to see more of that dynamic.
Overall, this was a really easy and enjoyable read, and I’m definitely planning to continue with Rafe’s story.
Thank you for the ARC!
This was my first time reading B. Lybaek, and it definitely won’t be my last. The writing style is easy-flowing, engaging, and makes the story fly by.
Raven and Matteo were such a perfect match. Their chemistry was off the charts from the start, and I loved that Raven wasn’t the typical shy, reserved heroine—she can truly hold her own. The relationship developed naturally, with that delicious “touch her/him and die” vibe, and their banter had me laughing out loud in parts. Their dynamic was both sweet and fun, and I couldn’t get enough of them together.
The only thing I wished for was more interaction with the cousins, because they added an interesting layer and I would’ve loved to see more of that dynamic.
Overall, this was a really easy and enjoyable read, and I’m definitely planning to continue with Rafe’s story.
Thank you for the ARC!
January 25, 2026
Absolutely loved this! I was dragged into Matteo's explosive world straight from the start and couldn't put this fast paced, well written, book down.
Matteo is the Mafia enforcer who collects favours and after one steamy night with Raven (who leaves with a stolen memento), Matteo has no option but to track her down and call in a favour-to use her to find a mole in his organisation. What follows is a fast paced, firery, spicy read that twists and turns unexpectedly and wow, what an ending!
Matteo and Raven are the perfect match, I loved how strong and feisty Raven's character is, she meets Matteo head on, always challenging him. The chemistry between her 'Fireststarter' and his 'Little Thief' is beyond hot, filled with 'touch her and die' vibes and so much banter.
These two strong characters will remain in my heart for a long time, really can't recommend this book enough.
Matteo is the Mafia enforcer who collects favours and after one steamy night with Raven (who leaves with a stolen memento), Matteo has no option but to track her down and call in a favour-to use her to find a mole in his organisation. What follows is a fast paced, firery, spicy read that twists and turns unexpectedly and wow, what an ending!
Matteo and Raven are the perfect match, I loved how strong and feisty Raven's character is, she meets Matteo head on, always challenging him. The chemistry between her 'Fireststarter' and his 'Little Thief' is beyond hot, filled with 'touch her and die' vibes and so much banter.
These two strong characters will remain in my heart for a long time, really can't recommend this book enough.
February 26, 2026
It is easily in my Top 5 reads of the year.
If you’re looking for a dark mafia romance that grabs you by the throat from chapter one and doesn't let go, The Favor Collector is your next obsession. I devoured this book the second it hit my Kindle and I’m already desperate for more!
This isn't just a romance; it’s an adrenaline-fueled ride through the Russo Mafia world. It is packed with:
* Serious Spice
* High Angst
* Dark themes (Definitely take a look at the CW to make sure this is for you!)
Raven is the definition of a ball of fire! She’s independent and feisty and a collector of trophies— if I do say so myself 👀
Matteo is your ultimate dark, bossy, broody enforcer. He’s a man who knows what he wants and he always gets what he wants. But what he wasn’t prepared for was a girl like Raven.
If you’re looking for a dark mafia romance that grabs you by the throat from chapter one and doesn't let go, The Favor Collector is your next obsession. I devoured this book the second it hit my Kindle and I’m already desperate for more!
This isn't just a romance; it’s an adrenaline-fueled ride through the Russo Mafia world. It is packed with:
* Serious Spice
* High Angst
* Dark themes (Definitely take a look at the CW to make sure this is for you!)
Raven is the definition of a ball of fire! She’s independent and feisty and a collector of trophies— if I do say so myself 👀
Matteo is your ultimate dark, bossy, broody enforcer. He’s a man who knows what he wants and he always gets what he wants. But what he wasn’t prepared for was a girl like Raven.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Matteo, mafia enforcer, ‘Firestarter’
Raven, chaos gremlin, ‘Little Thief’
Actions have consequences and those bring Raven into Matteo’s orbit, first as someone he can use, but the chemistry between these two is so flammable and can’t be put out.
Not to say that Matteo doesn't make some mistakes, especially when it comes to Tony and Raven. But he’s a fast learner!
I loved Raven’s attitude, snarky humour and inability to stop talking! Her meeting with the other Russo cousins was brilliant. Raven takes no prisoners and meets Matteo head on, challenging him in all the best ways.
The spice is so, so, burn down your world🔥🌎🔥, hot and the 🕯️ play was 🥵🔥🥵
You’ve heard the phrase of burning the world for the one you love? Well Matteo can, will and does.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Raven, chaos gremlin, ‘Little Thief’
Actions have consequences and those bring Raven into Matteo’s orbit, first as someone he can use, but the chemistry between these two is so flammable and can’t be put out.
Not to say that Matteo doesn't make some mistakes, especially when it comes to Tony and Raven. But he’s a fast learner!
I loved Raven’s attitude, snarky humour and inability to stop talking! Her meeting with the other Russo cousins was brilliant. Raven takes no prisoners and meets Matteo head on, challenging him in all the best ways.
The spice is so, so, burn down your world🔥🌎🔥, hot and the 🕯️ play was 🥵🔥🥵
You’ve heard the phrase of burning the world for the one you love? Well Matteo can, will and does.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
January 18, 2026
I loved this story and these character's. These 2 mc's took me on a wild ride. Matteo and Raven shared a night together, and resulted in her taking something meaningful from him, since she has a lil problem of being a kleptomaniac. He tracks her down and gives Raven an offer she can't refuse... she can have 10 favors or 1 very special favor... pretend to be his girlfriend while he tries to catch the mole who betrayed him, and almost got him killed last year. Oh what's a girl to do, since she knew she shouldn't have stolen from the mafia.
What started off as pretend soon crossed the lines into real as they grow closer as their chemistry of what drew them together in the first place was waiting on the match to be lit.
I definitely would recommend grabbing this book.
What started off as pretend soon crossed the lines into real as they grow closer as their chemistry of what drew them together in the first place was waiting on the match to be lit.
I definitely would recommend grabbing this book.
January 18, 2026
Matteo, the MAN that you are! I honestly liked him more than Lorenzo. Between both men, they are very intriguing, but there was just something about Matteo that I liked more.
I've read a lot of Mafia Boss romances, but not very many Enforcer ones, and I really enjoyed how well this book/story was written. B. Lybeck really knows how to capture her readers with the stories she writes. Every book I've read by her, I've thoroughly enjoyed. The way she writes her stories is the type that you can't put down because you have to know what happens next. I liked how Raven was portrayed in the story. She and Matteo were a perfect match.
The moment Raven stole a precious momento, she should have realized what she was in for. The phrase "playing with fire" came to mind when reading this book.
I've read a lot of Mafia Boss romances, but not very many Enforcer ones, and I really enjoyed how well this book/story was written. B. Lybeck really knows how to capture her readers with the stories she writes. Every book I've read by her, I've thoroughly enjoyed. The way she writes her stories is the type that you can't put down because you have to know what happens next. I liked how Raven was portrayed in the story. She and Matteo were a perfect match.
The moment Raven stole a precious momento, she should have realized what she was in for. The phrase "playing with fire" came to mind when reading this book.
January 20, 2026
Wow - another fabulous read in this series of interconnected stories! This one is about Raven and Matteo. When Raven steals a most precious object, Matteo tracks her down and convinces her she owes him a favour. The rollercoaster of events that mark the start of their relationship is as twisted and unexpected as it is intriguing and emotional. The emotions are so deep and real as things unfold and the plot thickens with surprising twists that nobody could see coming. I loved how Raven's sassy character was such a perfect match for Matteo's quick wit and mafia enforcer nature. I loved how possessive both Raven and Matteo were of the other and how their relationship changed and developed.
I also loved seeing the snippets of Enzo and Piper from the Toy collector.
I also loved seeing the snippets of Enzo and Piper from the Toy collector.
February 2, 2026
The Favor Collector is the second book in the Russo Mafia series. This can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the first book in the series,The Toy Collector. This is Matteos and Ravens story.
You have:
🖤Anti-hero
🖤Dark Romance
🖤Disability representation, (MMC is missing an eye and Scarred
🖤Fake Dating
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Grumpy/Sunshine
🖤🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
🖤Mafia
🖤OTT Jealous/Possessive
🖤Revenge
🖤Standalone
🖤HEA
This was so freaking good! There was so much chemistry and tention between Raven and Matteo, you can literally cut it with a knife. It did take me a bit to get into it but B. Lybaek's Storytelling is captivating and definitely had me hooked about a quarter of the way in. Definitely looking forward to the next book.
You have:
🖤Anti-hero
🖤Dark Romance
🖤Disability representation, (MMC is missing an eye and Scarred
🖤Fake Dating
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Grumpy/Sunshine
🖤🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
🖤Mafia
🖤OTT Jealous/Possessive
🖤Revenge
🖤Standalone
🖤HEA
This was so freaking good! There was so much chemistry and tention between Raven and Matteo, you can literally cut it with a knife. It did take me a bit to get into it but B. Lybaek's Storytelling is captivating and definitely had me hooked about a quarter of the way in. Definitely looking forward to the next book.
January 16, 2026
The Favor Collector is dark, funny, emotional, and full of twists.
Matteo’s prologue had me hooked right away. Getting his backstory made everything he does later make sense, especially once Raven crashes into his life with her chaotic, snarky energy.
One steamy night and one stolen keepsake pulls Raven straight into Matteo’s world. He needs a fake girlfriend to help him find a mole, and she needs to pay back the favor she owes.
Their chemistry is explosive, their banter is sharp, and the spice is 🔥🥵🔥🥵🔥🥵
Matteo makes mistakes, but he learns fast, and his devotion is intense.
If you enjoy mafia romance with big chemistry, sharp humor, and scorching spice, this series is a must read!!
Matteo’s prologue had me hooked right away. Getting his backstory made everything he does later make sense, especially once Raven crashes into his life with her chaotic, snarky energy.
One steamy night and one stolen keepsake pulls Raven straight into Matteo’s world. He needs a fake girlfriend to help him find a mole, and she needs to pay back the favor she owes.
Their chemistry is explosive, their banter is sharp, and the spice is 🔥🥵🔥🥵🔥🥵
Matteo makes mistakes, but he learns fast, and his devotion is intense.
If you enjoy mafia romance with big chemistry, sharp humor, and scorching spice, this series is a must read!!
February 1, 2026
The Favor Collector by B. Lybaek was fan-freaking-tastic!!! I devoured this book the minute it arrived on my Kindle, and I am left wanting more. I thought the storyline was original, page-turning, and filled with drama, action, suspense, angst, and spice. I am obsessed with the Russo Mafia series, and this book is in my top five for this year. I thought the characters were well written and had an intense and undeniable chemistry. This book is a dark romance and touches on dark themes and topics, so check the CW to make sure this book is for you. B. Lybaek has created a dark and exciting world with this series, and the characters are just as dark and thrilling.
Raven is a collector of certain trophies. I loved her independence, feistiness, and loyalty to her family. Matteo was the enforcer of his family. He is dark, broody, and bossy. He is focused and determined to get what he wants, but didn’t account for a fireball of a woman to come into his complicated life. I loved how this book just picked up the pace in chapter one and didn’t stop until the end. I was on the edge of my seat the whole way through this book and loved the OMG moments the most. I can’t wait to see what comes next in this series!!!
Raven is a collector of certain trophies. I loved her independence, feistiness, and loyalty to her family. Matteo was the enforcer of his family. He is dark, broody, and bossy. He is focused and determined to get what he wants, but didn’t account for a fireball of a woman to come into his complicated life. I loved how this book just picked up the pace in chapter one and didn’t stop until the end. I was on the edge of my seat the whole way through this book and loved the OMG moments the most. I can’t wait to see what comes next in this series!!!
February 1, 2026
Whew absolutely loved Matteo and Raven!! This might be my new favorite B. Lybaek book!!! Raven is a great MFC, she’s strong, witty and independent with sharp comebacks!! I loved that she would take little “trophies” from the men she would sleep with 🤭 her character was just so good!! Matteo is the enforcer for the family!! He is a dark, broody and bossy guy who’s very focused and determined to get what he wants! But he never expected a fiery woman to complicate his life!!
This book starts off with a fast pace and doesn’t let up the whole time!! It keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole ride!! This is definitely a must read!!! I can’t wait to see what next with this series!!!
This book starts off with a fast pace and doesn’t let up the whole time!! It keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole ride!! This is definitely a must read!!! I can’t wait to see what next with this series!!!
February 2, 2026
This story was incredibly spicy, thrilling and highly entertaining from beginning to end. It’s dark, twisted and violent, which I absolutely love in a dark romance.
Matteo and Raven keep us laughing, rolling our eyes and squirming from all of the insanely intense and utterly heated exchanges they have. The banter was perfection, but the spice was chef’s kiss. These two knew how to heat up the pages and keep us begging for more.
The writing was fantastic, the plot was so intense that it had me on the edge of my seat guessing on all of the who, what and why’s, and the final epilogue ending was just perfect.
Loved it.
Matteo and Raven keep us laughing, rolling our eyes and squirming from all of the insanely intense and utterly heated exchanges they have. The banter was perfection, but the spice was chef’s kiss. These two knew how to heat up the pages and keep us begging for more.
The writing was fantastic, the plot was so intense that it had me on the edge of my seat guessing on all of the who, what and why’s, and the final epilogue ending was just perfect.
Loved it.
January 6, 2026
I am a sucker for a good mafia book and this did not disappoint! It started off immediately with a dark background of the MMC getting attacked and leaving him with scars internally and externally. Once we jump forward to him meeting Raven all bets are off. She was feisty and didn’t give a single care what people thought of her. Their chemistry was amazing and strong and led to some deliciously spicy scenes. From there she was deemed his little thief and things just kept getting better and better. This entire book kept me on my toes and provided such amazing details the entire time.
January 17, 2026
This book was so good. I fell in love with Matteo right from the start . He had me hooked with his whole demeanour and attitude I wanted to devour him. Raven was epic I loved her attitude and how she held no graces or airs she was unapologetically herself and she was hilarious and took no shit from anyone and boy did she match Matteo’s energy perfectly. These two were so good as a team. The banter was so good between them and the whole dynamic. If you like mafia, forced proximity, he falls first, then you will like this one.
February 2, 2026
love an ironic nickname
4.5/5 ⭐️
I truly enjoy this book overall!
I was so excited when the gift of mercy was literally/figuratively blown up! From the 80% mark I was yelling and cussing at the antagonist! It was so good
The spice was good, the fmc and the mmc are a perfect match for each other. I love how she take life by the horns and shows it who’s boss. Included showing Matteo who she is.
I would love more action and a little less spice, spice is good but I did find myself skimming several scenes.
4.5/5 ⭐️
I truly enjoy this book overall!
I was so excited when the gift of mercy was literally/figuratively blown up! From the 80% mark I was yelling and cussing at the antagonist! It was so good
The spice was good, the fmc and the mmc are a perfect match for each other. I love how she take life by the horns and shows it who’s boss. Included showing Matteo who she is.
I would love more action and a little less spice, spice is good but I did find myself skimming several scenes.
January 15, 2026
This book was so good! The first book The Toy Collector was amazing but this one The Favor Collector was just wow! 🤯
This is the second book in the Russo mafia series and revolves, mostly about Raven and Matteo.
Each person in this family has their specialty and Matteo‘s is collecting favors in return for helping or providing someone with what they need. Raven after spending a night with Mateo steals something that is precious to him and owes him a favor.
The beginning and evolution of their story was just wonderful. I highly suggest this book and this series.
I received an advanced review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the second book in the Russo mafia series and revolves, mostly about Raven and Matteo.
Each person in this family has their specialty and Matteo‘s is collecting favors in return for helping or providing someone with what they need. Raven after spending a night with Mateo steals something that is precious to him and owes him a favor.
The beginning and evolution of their story was just wonderful. I highly suggest this book and this series.
I received an advanced review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 15, 2026
I devoured Matteo and Raven's story! It had me from the start. I enjoyed their first meeting. We even get some delicious spice too. 😉
As the story progresses, we get to see their relationship become so much more.
The back and forth and the chemistry was off the charts.
In addition, we got a few twists, some humor, emotional moments, and steam.
All in all, this was another fantastic read by B. Lybaek!
As the story progresses, we get to see their relationship become so much more.
The back and forth and the chemistry was off the charts.
In addition, we got a few twists, some humor, emotional moments, and steam.
All in all, this was another fantastic read by B. Lybaek!
January 15, 2026
3.5 stars
The Favor Collector by B. Lybaek
I found the writing clear and easy to read, but the story itself never really pulled me in. I struggled to connect with the plot and never felt especially invested in the characters, which made it hard to fully enjoy the book.
That’s not to say this isn’t a good book. The quality of the writing is there, it just wasn’t a story that worked for me personally.
⭐ 3.5 stars
The Favor Collector by B. Lybaek
I found the writing clear and easy to read, but the story itself never really pulled me in. I struggled to connect with the plot and never felt especially invested in the characters, which made it hard to fully enjoy the book.
That’s not to say this isn’t a good book. The quality of the writing is there, it just wasn’t a story that worked for me personally.
⭐ 3.5 stars
January 17, 2026
I liked this! It's Raven & Matteo's story & it was fire! They have an unforgettable evening together; unfortunately, she has a bad habit & takes something of sentimental value from him. He tracks her down & so it begins! He's trying to find out who the leak is in his organization & she's recruited to help him. There's a lot happening here, she gets drawn into his world & danger surrounds them both. Loved the spice & the story! Recommend this book & author!
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