Ruthless Desires Vol. 1

Ruthless Desires #1-3

by Elira Firethorn

Three hitmen who'll stop at nothing to get revenge—until they meet her.

Wren is the sweet barista who always lights up with Elliot, Rhett, and Oliver walk into her shop. All three of the guys are drawn to her, but they know getting closer to Wren would put her life at risk. But after a chance encounter at a masquerade ball and one night together, these men are all forced to face one undeniable

None of them can resist her. And now, they may not have to.

But can they keep her—and each other—safe from their enemies?

Genres: Dark Romance, Why Choose, Emotional, Drama, Mafia Romance, Audiobook

554 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 28, 2025

About the author

Elira Firethorn is an author of dark, steamy, suspenseful romance. Writing has been her passion since she was fourteen years old, and it continues to be her favorite pastime—aside from reading.

Reviews

[briebriereads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book that I have read by Elira and I loved the spicy, MMMF, why choose themes in the book. Every single make in the book was so great to the FMC.
The audiobook was amazing and there were no foreign noises.
There was so much that happened, and I was constantly on the edge of my seat, but I wanted it to be known how much I loved the book. I looked forward to continuously listening!

[Lemon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Plot: 3.5/5 • Smut: 5/5 ————-> They’re hit men. She’s a barista. Every friday the three of them would go to her coffee shop and visit. After a bad break up she decides to go to a valentines dance where the three men are. Whoops. She winds up in their bed. Wonder how that happened? 🤭


This is way more smut than plot. And if you’re anything like me, sometimes that’s exactly what weee looking for. In this gem we also get lots of MM and plenty of group action.


There’s no third act break up. There is a climax with guns drawn. (like I said there’s sommmmmme plot) Worth the read if that’s what you’re in to. 😉

[Amber L · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good polyamory story with lots of thrills, suspense. Development of the relationship between the MCs seemed appropriate. At the start was worried that the author wouldn't show the physical aspect of the MMCs relationship however later in the story it is showcased.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Katelin Cole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, I think this a a pretty cute MMMF mafia romance. I do like how sweet all of the MMCs are to each other and the FMC with respecting consent, and I’m a sucker for when the boyfriends are also boyfriends.

I think I would have connected to the characters more if there was more plot on the front end, instead of jumping into the spice so quickly. We got a lot more plot in the last book which I did enjoy! I would have liked to learn a little more about the guys’s relationship and how it formed, as well as more insight into their dynamic before introducing Wren.

I’ll be reading Volume 2 next and look forward to seeing more character development.

[Amanda | escapetoerilea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruthless Desires Vol 1 by Elira Firethorn
Contains a bonus prequel, Blissful Masquerade, Perfect Convergence, and Undying Resilience

Thank you to Blush Audiobooks and Elira for entrusting me with these early listening copies!

Multiple POVs, why choose (MMMF), morally grey MMCs, bookish FMC, touch her and 💀, consent kings, good girl, extra spicy, mental health rep, traumatic backgrounds, 🐝DSM elements, revenge plot
Please read the trigger warnings

Narration by Tempest Mensah, Blake Lockheart, PJ Freebourn, Michael Gallagher
I really enjoyed these narrators' performances! I liked how each of the guys was voiced by a different narrator and I felt that their voices fit each of the men so well! All of them had excellent pacing and emotion that kept me sucked in!

Elliot, Rhett, and Oliver discover the coffee shop Wren works at while they are searching for a new regular Friday spot. The guys are all smitten with her (as she is with them!) and as they keep returning, they start to fantasize about bringing her into their relationship. But they are hitmen, and decide they need to stay away to keep her safe. Until they run into her at a masquerade and take the plunge. Soon Wren is indeed drawn into their dangerous world, but they all find they can't let each other go!

I really enjoyed this first collection of this series! With the prologue, we got to see them all meeting and got the slow burn and pining. Then as the rest of the books got going, we were further introduced to the main arc of the series as well as more history of the characters. And of course the guys starting to weave Wren into their relationship. I so enjoyed the relationships the men had coming into these books. They are together and unapologetic about it, and I love how they take care of each other. They also all have things they are dealing with and the care that is taken with their mental health between them all is heart warming. There was so much that felt real about them - from the trauma they are still dealing with, to discussion a few times about one of the partners not wanting to jump into the bed play for various reasons, to open conversations about being themselves. I thought it was so interesting that the author specifically doesn't physically describe the main characters so the reader can visualize them as they want. I love these characters together and I was so glad I had volume two to immediately dive into!

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can they keep her—and each other—safe from their enemies?

This is my first time reading a book by Elira, and it won't be my last. She did a wonderful job with the MMMF romance. This book was thrilling and suspenseful with a lot of chemistry between all characters.

Elliot, Rhett, and Oliver have been in each others lives forever they have an unbreakable bond. Now they are out for revenge and don't want to have anyone else to worry about except each other. That is until they meet Wren, who works at the coffee shop they go to. They all feel somewhat of a connection to her but lay off because she has a boyfriend. Now that said boyfriend is out of the picture, what will they do?

I love the spicy scenes, but it was weird how they ended part 1 and jumped right into them being together, basically... That is just my opinion, though other than that, I loved it. I can't wait for more.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant book, polyamorous relationship develops between 3 male friends already in a committed relationship. The addition of a female completes their family. Great characters, believable bond between them all. Fantastic background story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three hit men (Oliver, Elliott, and Rhett) develop a crush on Wren the barista at their new favorite coffee shop. They try to keep their distance because they have a lot of enemies and do not want to put her in danger. It becomes impossible for them to resist her when she shows up to a masquerade ball after a horrible breakup with her boyfriend. From then on, Wren becomes a part of their world.

[Julia_bookdark.ig dark_julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was amazing, this book is MMMF, and mm are boyfriend, they are just so sweet to each others, it’s a mafia romance, this book have a great plot and it’s keep getting better, the revenge with spice that is spicing.
Tropes:
🖤MMMF
🖤mafia romance
🖤bdsm
🖤revenge plot

4,5/⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️/spice

[Niamhyyy12 · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️

MMMF
⚔️
Hit men vs barista
Bdsm
Fast pace
Revenge plot

Fast paced series but with each book we get more into the plot- which honestly keep you more engaged- writing is 💋- would say the main plot is a slow one but it’s a revenge story so that makes sense BUT the spice MAN the spice in the series is one of my favourite 🥵🌶️🌶️🌶️-
AND 👏THE 👏MEN 👏 ARE 👏ALSO 👏 BOYFRIEND 🙌🏼
you literally get a bit of everything from these spicy scenes and they just get better each time

I don’t have a favourite out of the men… okay Rhett is my favourite by a little tiny bit… I love them all plus wren honestly I’m jealous of them and their relationship 😩🥲, these men will do anything for this woman.


If anyone knows me they would know this is one of my top favourite RH man even one of my top favourite series overall- I always recommend this series to everyone, 1000% deserves more attention and more hype
this was the series that got me back into reading and honestly I can’t get these men and wren out of my head after 4 years of reading this for the first time!
seeing that more added bonus have been added Into 2 extended editions I rannn to sign up for the arcs.. thank you again for the arc as honestly needed it because the books I been reading lately have been massive fails and I been in the worst slump ever this year 😩 well onto books 2!!

[PlotTwist&Tea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Imagine walking into a coffee shop and finding yourself emotionally stalked (in the most consensually concerning way) by three morally gray investment banker-types… who also moonlight as hitmen. Sounds like a LinkedIn fantasy gone feral? Welcome to Ruthless Desires—a slow-brewed blend of angst, trauma, cinnamon-sweet pining, and knife-wielding foreplay.

This is a prequel, which means you’ll be sipping more buildup than spice—but it’s worth it. The story centers around Oliver, Elliot, and Rhett, our homicidally hot trio, and Wren—the sweet barista with a spine of steel and a boyfriend who deserves to be launched into the sun. Each man has his own flavor of obsession: charming and impulsive (Oliver), emotionally intelligent and protective (Elliot), and emotionally constipated but clearly simping in secret (Rhett).

Wren? She’s exhausted, underappreciated, and running on caffeine, fantasy novels, and the slow realization that maybe three men quietly stalking you with lattes is better than one gaslighting boyfriend who won’t pay the rent.


What Works:
• Dialogue so intimate it makes your toes curl.
• Non-toxic poly dynamic that feels soft and safe (except for the murder).
• Wren is actually relatable—an exhausted millennial with book covers she designed herself and dreams of sleeping uninterrupted.
• Realistic trauma portrayal. These men are NOT magically healed—there’s therapy, PTSD spirals, insomnia, and messy emotional repression. Delicious.


What’ll Make You Clutch Your Pearls:
Trigger Warnings (see full list in the book, but here’s a peek):
• Violence and murder (with various weapons and brutal methods)
• Childhood abuse, trauma, and suicidal ideation
• BDSM and blood play (including knife play and cutting—consensual but intense)
• Mental health challenges, gaslighting, dissociation, PTSD
• Toxic relationship dynamics (not between the MCs)
• Domestic violence (backstory), emotional neglect, and cheating (off-page)

Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶 (Builds later; this one teases and toys)
Emotional Damage: 8.5/10
Obsessive Boyfriend Fantasy Meter: 12/10


Final Sip:
This book is what happens when emotional support murderers meet a cinnamon roll who’s been through way too much. It’s cozy, gut-wrenching, and quietly unhinged. You won’t find insta-love here. You’ll find trauma bonding, cappuccino flirting, and enough romantic tension to fuel a thousand therapy sessions. And honestly? I’ll take my coffee with a side of revenge and three emotionally broken boyfriends, please.

⭐ Rating: 4.75/5.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nikki'J' · Rating 3 out of 5]

A teaser reel caught my attention for this book and it had plenty to like about it.

Hitman - check
Reverse Harem - check
Touch her & d!e vibes - check
Protective Alphas - check
Danger -check
Suspense - check

So, I thought I had found a win. This is a series already written divided into two books. Ruthless Desires Volume One contains 3 books and a novella.
Ruthless Desires Prequel (Novella)
Blissful Masquerade
Perfect Convergence
Undying Resilience

The novella is a quick introduction to the characters and how they meet.

Blissful Masquerade is everything that happens after that initial connection. After betrayal by her boyfriend her friend pushes her to attend the ball, she got tickets for. She’s surprised to see her coffee shop customers there, but it makes her evening something she could have never thought to hope for. One night, becomes one weekend, becomes maybe forever won’t be long enough. The danger the guys face is what holds them back from her but letting her go seems like a mistake.

Perfect Convergence is what happens moving forward after what was meant to only be a weekend of fun. Deciding to see where a relationship could go, they dive in headfirst. Elliot’s concerns aren’t unwarranted but none of them can deny the pull to Wren is like nothing they’ve ever experienced apart from with each other. The secrets they are keeping could ruin it all. What they don’t expect is Wren getting mixed up in one of their jobs or her reaction to finding out the truth.

Undying resilience is when things get really serious and the danger steps up a notch. Wren has been taken and is being tortured and tormented by her capture. He plans to punish the guys by making sure they watch Wren suffer. Unfortunately for Wren they are out of town completing a job and have no idea they have lost the woman they are all falling in love with. When they find out the promise to make the man behind it suffer and will save Wren at all costs.

Elliot, Rhett, and Oliver are the three best friends who suffered a lose as teens and turned into hitman out for revenge. They are more like brothers and have made their own family. They are also in love with each other.

Each has a different back story. Elliot is from a wealthy family that haven’t always had his best intentions but aren’t horrible parents. Oliver has a fantastic mother and loving sister, his family life was simple, but he was happy. Rhett’s father was not a good man and he had a tumultuous childhood and after the loss of his sister it broke his family further, he only survived with the help of his found family, Elliot and Oliver.

Elliot is kind of the brains. He’s a planner and he’s the one the guys rely on to make sure they never get caught. His brains are what has him struggling with accepting Wren, not because he doesn’t want her but because having her could get her hurt and be a weakness for them. His fear over losing Oliver and Rhett can be crippling at times, he doesn’t know what it would cost him to lose Wren.
Oliver is the more easy going of the three, to be expected with a more balanced family life. His feelings are close to the surface but he also suffers from serious anxiety the other two are his staunchest protectors. Oliver is the fastest to fall for Wren. He’s the one that lightens their souls, but he also needs them just as much. They understand him like no one else, until Wren.
Rhett is the most broken. His lose as a teen and the torment from his father broke something in him. Despite how much he loves Elliot and Oliver showing them how deep his feelings go isn’t something he is able to do often. His pain affects them all but Wren coming into their life starts to heal that broken part.

Wren is a sweet girl living her simple life. She’s got a boyfriend she’s hoping to marry and while she despises her stepfather her mother is somewhat supportive. At least she thinks so until her relationship falls apart and her mother’s overbearing presence only lets her know how much she’s tried to control her.

There were plenty of ups and downs throughout the books and the idea of for this series was solid. Even the plot gave high hopes. I read the books pretty easily and there were great moments that had me on the edge. I did struggle with some parts of the book but I’m interested in finding out how these four manage to end their enemy and live happily ever after. Volume two for the answers.

Happy Reading

[Audio book lover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruthless Desires Vol. 1 sets the tone for a dark, fast-paced, and addictive series that only promises to dig deeper with every installment. Elira Firethorn delivers a revenge-driven story where obsession, danger, and undeniable chemistry collide. This opening volume doesn’t just introduce you to the world of Wren, Elliot, Rhett, and Oliver it pulls you right into the storm that binds them together.

What stood out most to me is how cleverly this volume is structured. By including a prequel alongside three novellas, Firethorn gives us a layered look at how the men first came together before Wren enters the picture. It makes the emotional tension even more compelling once their lives intertwine. Wren brings a quiet strength and vulnerability that balances perfectly with the men’s darkness, and together, their dynamic is nothing short of magnetic. This isn’t just a romance it’s a dangerous game of loyalty, obsession, and survival.

The cliffhanger at the end? Brutal in the best way. It left me desperate to dive straight into the next volume.

The Story
Three hitmen bound by revenge—Elliot, Rhett, and Oliver—find their carefully controlled lives shaken when Wren, the sweet barista who unknowingly captured their attention, crosses their path. A masquerade ball leads to one night that changes everything, binding them in ways none of them expected. But with enemies lurking and secrets unraveling, their growing connection could put them all in danger.

What I Loved
✔️ The clever structure of including a prequel + novellas that deepen the backstory.
✔️ Wren’s softness and strength contrasted with the men’s obsessive, morally grey edges.
✔️ The raw intensity of their chemistry high-heat with BDSM woven in seamlessly.
✔️ The revenge plot simmering beneath it all, promising more with each book.
✔️ A cliffhanger ending that makes it impossible not to continue.

🎧 Narration
Tempest Mensah, Blake Lockheart, PJ Freebourn, and Michael Gallagher absolutely nailed this performance. I loved that each man had his own narrator their voices fit Elliot, Rhett, and Oliver perfectly, each adding nuance and emotion that made their characters come alive. Tempest Mensah gave Wren exactly the warmth and strength she needed. Excellent pacing, flawless emotion this wasn’t just narration, it was an experience.

Tropes
Dark Romance
Revenge Plot
Hitmen MMCs
Morally Grey / Obsessive Heroes
High Heat + BDSM
Found Family Vibes
Cliffhanger Ending

Final Thoughts
Ruthless Desires Vol. 1 is the perfect start to a dark, fast-paced, and utterly addictive series. The writing is sharp, the dynamics are electric, and the narration elevates every scene. If you love morally grey heroes, obsessive chemistry, and revenge-fueled stories that keep you on the edge of your seat, this one belongs on your list. I’m already hooked and ready for more.

[Michelle Frater · Rating 4 out of 5]

This first volume kicks things off with a prequel plus three addictive novellas—Blissful Masquerade, Perfect Convergence, and Undying Resilience—and it wastes no time in pulling you in. The prequel sets the stage beautifully, showing how Elliot, Rhett, and Oliver first found one another and forged a bond that’s already unbreakable before Wren ever enters their world. These men work together, live together, and protect each other with a ferocity that borders on devotion. Oh, and they’re also hitmen on a revenge mission, because why not? Enter Wren, the soft-spoken barista who unknowingly disrupts their carefully controlled lives. When the guys stumble into her coffee shop, all three fall hard and fast, instantly obsessed, but they’re determined to keep her at arm’s length to protect her from their dangerous reality. Unfortunately for their self-control, Wren notices them too. Week after week, sparks fly, and she’s just as drawn to them as they are to her. Burned out, emotionally drained, and done with her failing relationship (good riddance, truly), Wren makes a last-minute decision to attend a masquerade ball where fate throws her straight into the path of the three men she can’t stop thinking about. One unforgettable weekend changes everything, binding them together in ways none of them anticipated. Although they are unapologetically morally grey, each MMC shines with a distinct personality: Oliver is confident, playful, and impulsive; Elliot is reserved, steady, and fiercely protective; and Rhett is the brooding trifecta of grumpy, silent, and intense. Add in layered trauma and vulnerabilities for all four characters, and suddenly this story has real emotional weight. Wren’s quiet strength and resilience balance the men’s darkness perfectly, creating a dynamic that’s utterly compelling. And yes, the spice is scorching and relentless (swords absolutely do cross), but it never feels gratuitous. Every heated moment is rooted in care, protection, and obsession. There are some kinky elements mixed in, so definitely check the trigger warnings, but they’re woven naturally into the story. Though the novellas are short, they’re packed to the brim with tension, emotion, and momentum. You’ll be shocked at how fast you fly through them. And that cliffhanger? Brutal. You’ll be smashing that “buy now” button for volume two before you even catch your breath. If you love morally grey heroes, obsessive chemistry, and revenge-driven romance that keeps you glued to the page, this series deserves a top spot on your TBR.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jocelyn Delarosa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Rating: ⭐ 4.25/5
Spice Rating: 🌶️4/5
Narration Rating: 🎧 4.5/5

Ruthless Desires Vol. 1 by Elira Firethorn is the perfect dark, addictive start to a series that had me hooked from the first chapter. This volume includes a prequel, Blissful Masquerade, along with Perfect Convergence and Undying Resilience, which makes it feel both layered and complete while still leaving me desperate for more. I would say this is like part one of an Omnibus.

The story follows Elliot, Rhett, and Oliver, three hitmen bound together by love and revenge, who stumble into the coffee shop where Wren works. What starts as stolen glances and distanced pining slowly unravels into obsession, vulnerability, and a connection none of them can resist. Wren’s softness balances out the darkness these men carry around in secret, and their dynamic together was just soooo magnetic.

What I loved most was how this wasn’t just about the spice (though trust me, there’s plenty, and it’s *chef's kiss*). This story was emotional and about trauma, healing, and the reality of what it is like carrying scars given to you by even some of the closest people who should protect you in your life. These guys aren’t magically fixed because of Wern; they continued to battle PTSD, insomnia, and emotional repression, and I loved how much care Elira Firethorn took in writing this to properly represent. Wren was also so relatable, exhausted with her mundane life but still super resilient, and I found myself rooting for her happiness as much as the romance.

The narration was fantastic. Tempest Mensah brought so much life to Wren's character when she needed it the most, while Blake Lockheart, PJ Freebourn, and Michael Gallagher each nailed the voices of the men and made them each unique. Having each MMC voiced separately gave the story even more depth and made their emotions for one another just absolutely perfect!

Overall, Ruthless Desires Vol. 1 is dark and seriously addictive. It’s a perfect mix of found family, morally grey obsession, MC chemistry, and revenge. And yes...the cliffhanger ending was brutal but in the best way. I jumped into Volume 2 immediately!

[Charlotte (MsTiggy) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (4/5 chili peppers)

Elira Firethorn’s Ruthless Desires: Volume One plunges readers into a dark, intoxicating world of revenge, loyalty, and raw passion. This why-choose, mafia-style romance serves up all the spice you could wish for, centering on three brooding, enigmatic hit men who bring a lonely barista into their orbit for a weekend that transforms all their lives.

I was immediately hooked by the high-stakes premise: our heroine swept away by three men with secrets as dark as their suits, and a thirst for vengeance that’s matched only by their growing fixation on her. The chemistry between every possible pairing is electric, and Firethorn does not shy away from turning up the heat. Lovers of spicy romance in every configuration will not be disappointed.

What elevates this story are the undercurrents of vulnerability. The characters’ past traumas, especially the heroine’s emotional scars from a toxic upbringing, lend emotional depth and realism to what could otherwise be a straightforward dark romance. It’s refreshing to see trauma treated with nuance rather than as a plot device, and I appreciated the exploration of how each character’s past influences their present relationships.

My main quibble - and the reason for my four-star rating - is that the characters’ histories are only hinted at. We see glimpses of pain and resilience, but I wanted a deeper dive into the backstory: What exactly made these men so damaged, and our heroine so guarded? Hopefully, the next installment will build on these tantalizing hints and give us a fuller portrait of who these characters are beneath their masks.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Overall, Ruthless Desires: Volume One is a deliciously dark, satisfyingly spicy read that left me eager for more. If you enjoy morally gray heroes, slow-burn emotional healing, and a heroine who holds her own in a world of danger, you’ll devour this book. Here’s hoping Volume Two answers some of the burning questions left smoldering in the ashes.

[Natasha · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️ ☆☆ (2.5–3 stars)

Ruthless Desires Volume One promises a dark, suspenseful “why choose” romance full of revenge, danger, loyal men, and plenty of spice. This extended volume includes the prequel plus the first three books (Blissful Masquerade, Perfect Convergence, and Undying Resilience), giving readers a big chunk of the series in one set.

The setup is strong: Wren, a sweet barista, finds herself pulled into the orbit of three hitmen—Elliot, Rhett, and Oliver—each of whom is drawn to her but knows the risks of letting her too close. A masquerade ball, one unforgettable night, and the dangers of their underworld lives set the stage for a romance that should feel both intense and all-consuming.

I really wanted to love this story—I love why choose romances, especially with dark edges—but I struggled to connect. The spice was enjoyable and well-written, but I didn’t feel the deeper emotional connection between Wren and the men. Their chemistry often read more physical than layered, and I had trouble fully buying into the relationship dynamics. By the time I got halfway through Perfect Convergence, I found myself losing momentum.

I usually prefer to binge on completed series in one go. While Ruthless Desires is complete across two volumes (with Volume One and Volume Two available), I just wasn’t pulled deeply enough into the relationships to want to binge straight through. The world and setup are intriguing, and I can see why fans of the trope might find it addictive—I just personally didn’t feel the spark I was hoping for to carry me through the series.

If you’re looking for dark suspense, protective hitmen, and lots of spice, Ruthless Desires Volume One delivers. But if you want a deep, emotional connection between FMC and MMCs, you might come away wanting more, as I did.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Ruthless Desires Vol. 1" by Elira Firethorn, brought to life by the voices of Tempest Mensah, PJ Freebourn, Blake Lockheart, and Michael Gallagher, is a book I wish I could give more than five stars!

This first volume cleverly includes a prequel along with three short novellas. I absolutely love when a book does this, as the prequel gave me great insight into how Elliot, Rhett, and Oliver first came together. These three men work together, live together, and share a deep bond, and I found them fiercely protective of one another even before Wren entered the picture.

Wren is the sweet barista who catches their eye, and though they initially hesitate to bring her into their dangerous world (they have a rather unconventional job as hitmen), one chance encounter changes everything. After a very wholesome and spicy weekend together, it's clear none of them can resist her. What struck me most is how evident the love between the characters is, even before Wren joins them, and how beautifully that love expands to include her.

I was hooked from the very first page. The character development felt amazing, allowing me to feel like I truly knew Wren, Oliver, Rhett, and Elliot. Interestingly, the author keeps physical descriptions vague, which I wasn't sure about at first, but I grew to love how it let my imagination create my own vision of the characters.

The plot kept me on the edge of my seat, constantly needing to know what happens next. The complex past turmoil and trauma that bind these four together make the story so compelling, and the romance feels incredibly pure and true. The narration was supremely well done; the narrators truly brought the characters and their emotions to life.

I promise, once you start this series, you won't want to put it down! I'm already so excited to dive into Volume 2 to see where their revenge journey takes them next.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[HEATHER · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨Audiobook Review✨

If you like Mafia Romance with a lot of SPICE then this book is going to be for you! This is a Why Choose MMMF. I haven't read anything like this before so I wanted to give this one a try. I did enjoy the story in this book I just wish there was a lot more story and less of the spice. I know desire is in the title but I still like a good story line. I just started the second volume and that one so far seems to have more story so I'm hoping that one will be more my style.

The narrators Tempest Mensah, PJ Freebourn, Blake Lockheart and Michael Gallagher did a good job narrating this story. They have smooth voices and they will hold your attention throughout the book.

Wren is a barista at a local coffee shop and is the sweetest! She ends up meeting three guys Elliott, Rhett and Oliver who become regulars at the coffee shop. One night she runs into these men at a Masquerade Ball and no one can resist each other. They end up asking her to spend the weekend with them and spoil her.

These men are the sweetest when it comes to how much they care for Wren. She will always be taken care of and they will make sure she gets whatever she wants. I do love their connection with each other. The guys have known each other for years and they are perfect together. They each offer something to one another and it makes their relationship work. Adding Wren into the mix helps even more because she brings things they needed to the table as well.

This is a spicy, mafia romance that will have you blushing, swooning, get emotional, make you jaw drop and will leave you needing the next volume. I would recommend this audiobook. I look forward to the next volume in this series.

Thank you Elira Firethorn and Blush Audio for allowing me to listen to this ALC for my honest opinion.

[Caren · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a quick read for me. I flew right through it. This book has potential to be exceptional. I like the softness that Wren brings to them, especially Rhett, as they bring the hard (no pun intended), reality to her. I like that the men love each other as they all start to fall for her.

I do wish that there would've been more background on the guys. You do get a rough picture of them and their younger selves but nothing to really sink your teeth into. It did give some of Wren's past relationship, but I wanted more. I wanted to hate her ex as much as she did. Plus, to have such doubts about "all men" she had to have more than just 1 ex that did her wrong.

This book has a way for pulling you in. The want for more is there through the entire thing. I would continue the series just to see what happens, but I do believe that it needs something more. Sometimes for me some books have too many descriptive scenes, but this one didn't have much of any real descriptions of things. Not even the guys. I know that they are tall, handsome.. but it needed more. Like what color eyes, the description of the way they made her feel instead her just getting chills. They way she falls for them in 2 days, I wanted to feel that. I wanted to get the way down and dirty of each of them. All the good and bad.
Now there was a lot of sexual scenes, but they could've had more spice, more description and more aftercare. Like being tied up, even with silk, leaves redness and soreness.
Seems I might be all over the place with this one but like I said it did pull me in and I completed the book in less than a day. So, I hope that you get to enjoy this one too.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lovelettelore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three men, one weekend, and a bond too strong to break. 🖤

📖 Ruthless Desires, Vol. 1 by E. Firethorn
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
Genre: Dark why-choose romance / Erotica
TW: Abuse, Death, Violence, Profanity, Sex (⚠️ full TW list is long—please check before reading!)

Wren is a quiet barista whose Fridays are brightened by three men in suits who always stop by the café. A little flirting, a little banter, but nothing more—until a Valentine’s Day masquerade changes everything. One stolen night leads to a weekend of passion with Rhett, Elliot, and Oliver… who turn out to be assassins on a bloody path of revenge.

This book hooked me fast. It’s a collection of four short novellas, but it flowed seamlessly. I related to Wren’s book-nerd heart and loved watching her grow from a timid barista into someone bold, fierce, and sure of herself. Her connection with the three men felt so layered—each relationship different, but all built on the same foundation: love, care, and absolute loyalty. Even before Wren, they were already a couple, and I adored that dynamic.

Yes, this book is long. Yes, it’s smut-heavy. But it’s erotica at its best. The spice is scorching and constant, yet never shallow—it’s tied deeply to how they care for and protect one another. They do mental health check-ins, look after each other’s safety, and show the kind of tenderness that makes most real-life men look bad. And honestly? I ate it all up.

If you liked Den of Vipers but wanted more depth (and more pages), this one’s for you. I’m already reaching for Volume 2.

Thank you BookSirens and E. Firethorn for this ARC!

Tropes:
💍 Why choose (MMMF)
🖤 Obsessed MMCs
🛡 Protective MMCs
⚖️ Morally grey
🎲 High stakes
💀 “Touch her and 💀”
❤️‍🔥 The BFs are BFs too
🎯 Revenge plot
💸 Filthy rich MMCs

[SJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark why choose romance MMMF

I've been wanting to read this series for a while now and I'm so excited I was able to get the collection in 2 books instead of 6. This Book includes the prequel and books 1-3.
It's a dark, twisted, sexy, emotional journey that had me at moments either gasping, sighing, or sitting on the edge of my seat.

I loved that Elira Firethorn included a playlist to listen to and a Pinterest storyboard to give us some visual inspiration.

As lengthy as this story seems I devoured the pages. I loved the characters and that the author purposefully left out most of the physical descriptors. It left me free to picture each MC as I wished along with the author's intent on their personalities.
The story revolves around 3 men and a woman. With multiple POV it's so nice to understand the motives and thoughts behind each MC. They each have unique personalities.

The MCs are:
Oliver is the confident, playful, flirty, witty guy.
Rhett is the tough, silent, stoic, grumpy, intense guy.
Elliot is a little nerdy, intellectual, reserved type.
Wren is sweet, kind, and resilient.
There are so many layers to these amazing characters.

Each of the MCs brings a different piece to the relationship dynamics with one another and altogether. The spice was scorching hot. The chemistry and passion between them had me overheating and fanning myself.

Contains:
Morally-gray
Steamy scenes
Kink
Protective
Emotional
Mental health
Hitmen
and so much more...

This was a fantastic thrilling, suspenseful, sexy delicious plot full of twists and an absolute wild fun ride! I'm so eager to get to the next collection in the series.

[Jasmin · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤:
🖤MMMF
❤️Why Choose
🖤Dark Romance
❤️High Heat
🖤Morally Grey Man
❤️Touch Her / Him and Die
🖤BDSM
❤️OBSESSED MMC’s

Intended for 18 and over also please check out the TW’s before reading!!

✨AUDIO ALC 🎧 REVIEW ✨

Ruthless Desires volume 1 audio includes a prequel that gives us an insight of how our characters meet and books 1-3. The story is well written and does have enough twist and turns to keep you listening. It was really good narrated by @tempest.mensah @pjvoice_official @blakelockheart @mikegallaghervo and they all did an amazing job. The character development and chemistry is amazing and the spice was spicing🥵 between all four characters. Wren, Rhett, Oliver, and Elliot are so Perfect together.

Rhett, Oliver, and Elliot 3 hitman who have a relationship with one another (YES THEY ARE ALL BOYFRIENDS🤭) walk in to a coffee shop and are drawn to Wren the Barista and she can’t help be drawn to them as well. Like an instant attraction and connection between all four of them. The 3 guys were unsure of letting Wren inside their inner circle because they didn’t want to put her in danger but after a masquerade ball and one night together all 3 guys can’t resist her.

Can't wait to listen to Volume 2 and see what happens next! Highly recommend.

Thanks Elira Firethorn, BlushAudiobooks and VPR for the ALC in exchange of my review!❤️

[Katie Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first volume of Ruthless Desires contains a prequel and 3 short novellas. I love when a book comes with a prequel element as it allows us as readers to understand our characters a bit further. The prequel offers us an insight of how our characters meet.

Oliver, Rhett and Elliott are a close trio, the work, live and all have a relationship with one another- and these men are fiercely protective of one another. After the trio laid eyes on the cute barista named Wren they couldn’t deny that she has now entered that equation.

These men have quite an unconventional job *cough* H!tm3n *cough* and at first they were unsure if they wanted to to bring Wren into their circle for her safety but those thoughts were quickly discarded are they spent a very wholesome and spicy weekend together👀

I think what I love about this story most of all is the love between the characters is very evident even before our FMC joins the group and when she does join that love extends even further.👏🏼

This first volume explores the revenge journey that our MMCs are on and how Wren is now on that journey with them. I cannot wait to dive into volume two and see where that journey goes even further.

Thank you to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭

[Jennifer Braswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A hitmen why-choose with male mains who will stop at nothing to protect what is theirs… I literally couldn't stop reading this!!

The book starts out with our three male main characters who are already in a closed relationship and have been for a long time who are hired hitmen out for revenge. One day they enter a coffee shop and all to be instantly obsessed with the barista who is the female main character, Wren.

Wren is at a low point in her current relationship but notices that week after week these three men come in and talk to her. After months of small interactions with them, she ends up in a place to welcome their advances and this is where the story really takes off.

Volume one only spans roughly two weeks but sooo much happens within those two weeks that it almost seems rushed. While I did absolutely love the plot and can not wait to read volume two because of the cliffhanger it leaves you on, I do feel that some of the parts of the relationship felt rushed.

Fair warning, the ending will leave you wanting more because so much is left unknown. Who is Andrew? Will they get revenge? Why did Lugo know where Jordan was? …. So much left to find out!

**I did receive an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[alexandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 🌟
Boyfriends who are also boyfriends? Say less, I’m OBSESSED 🥹

This was my first book by Elira and trust me when i tell you that it will NOT be the last 🖤 it was SUCH a blast and I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to these characters when it ended (thankfully I had the second book ready to dive into right away 🤭). I’ll always be a sucker for reverse harem, but this story gets major bonus points for giving us boyfriends who are also boyfriends 🥹 The MMCs are so sweet with each other and with the FMC, and the way they care about and respect one another made the romance feel extra special 😭

One specific thing I loved was how the author didn’t pin down specific physical descriptions for the main characters. That choice gave me the freedom to imagine them however I wanted, and it made the whole reading experience even more immersive.

Overall, this is a super cute MMMF mafia romance with all the sweetness, steam, and found-family vibes my heart could want. I’d love a whole book just about how the guys originally got together, because their bond is so strong and fun to watch unfold. For now though, I’m just so glad this series isn’t over cause I can’t wait for more time with this crew 🤭❤️‍🔥🌟

[Jodi Fry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruthless Desires is a MMMF dark, why choose romance.

Wren is a barista, when 3 guys walk in to the coffee shop she works at she cant help but stop and stare 🖤

The MMC's -

Oliver ; The sweet, kind, caring artistic one
Rhett - The brooding, grumpy, deep, quiet one
Elliott - The cheeky, confident, flirty, charismatic one

The boys are boyfriends and have been together for a long time. Their dynamic is beautiful, all bringing different things to the relationship.
We then have Insta Lust when they catch a glimpse of Wren, but sook this turns into more.

The boys are on a mission to get close to a dangerous person who killed Rhetts little sister, A Revenge Mission.

They are initially hesitant to bring Wren in to their dangerous lives but they cannot stay away any longer......


These guys become crazy, Possesive, Obsessive over Wren. when a guy is rude to her in the coffee shop, they track him down and burn his house down!!

Tropes & Microtropes -

Good boy/Good Girl
Show me what you like
Mine
Begging
Praise & degradation

Spice level 3/5

I cannot wait to see what happens in volume 2.

I received this ARC & ALC in exchange for an honest review 🖤

[Tanvi Sutar · Rating 4 out of 5]

ALC Review 🎧

Ruthless Desires Vol. 1 was such a wild ride—dark, steamy, and impossible to put down.

Wren is such a sweet barista, but once she crosses paths with Rhett, Oliver, and Elliot—three hitmen out for revenge—her world completely changes. What starts as simple stolen glances at the coffee shop quickly spirals into obsession, danger, and one unforgettable night at a masquerade ball.

I really loved the dynamics between all four characters. Wren has this softness and quiet strength that balances so well with the guys, and the men? Dark, morally grey, obsessive, and fiercely protective in the best way. Their chemistry together is intense—definitely high-heat, with some BDSM elements that fit the story perfectly.

Listening on audio made the whole experience even better. The narrators brought so much life into the tension, obsession, and tenderness between the characters that it honestly made it hard to hit pause.

If you enjoy why-choose romances with dangerous MMCs, protective obsession, and plenty of spice, I’d definitely recommend this one. I can’t wait to see where the series goes next!

✨ Huge thanks to the author for the opportunity to listen to this ALC.

[Savanna Hamrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

🤗

I honestly did not expect it to have 3 books in this one book but I honestly enjoyed it. This is the first book I read from the author. It’s a MMMF romance. The three MMCS are together and they go to a coffee shop one morning and see Wren (FMC) behind the counter and next thing you know they start going to that shop every Friday morning. I was happy that we got one on one scenes with each other and group scenes. I absolutely love the different POVS of the four characters. The men opened up somewhat towards Wren and she did the same but is still getting there. Rhett has a lot of self healing to do for himself. Oliver my BOO🥰🥰 you ran off after Wren was taken and my heart literally stopped🤨😩 Elliot my nerdy/ leader man😏 Wren my shy outgoing girl…. What happend to you was extremely awful and I’m glad you got your revenge and I’m glad the three Men with you helped you heal somewhat show you can show your body to them again. You took control and I love that! Other than this I would of loved more plot in the beginning instead of spice not that I minded the spice just would of liked more of a plot than we got that more towards the end, I’m excited to read Volume 2.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wren comes to the attention of Elliot, Oliver, and Rhett when they go to the coffee shop where she works. Over the coming weeks, they keep returning under the guise of coffee, but it's to see her.

Wren is not in a healthy relationship with Adam, her boyfriend, but she is not at the point where she can call it quits. But that point is closer than she thinks when she realises what he's been doing.

When Wrens happens to meet them at a party she is attending, is she interested in doing something out of her comfort zone with them? From there, the relationship develops quickly. But the men are keeping something big from her. How will she feel if she finds out who they are and what they are capable of? Will she see life from their perspective? Can she 'fit in' with their lifestyle? Now that they have Wren, can they let her walk away when she fits in so smoothly with them?

The four of them have to face their deepening feelings for each other, and the consequences of getting caught up in the world the men operate in.

Their story continues in Volume Two.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.