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Blood is Blue: A Forbidden Mafia Romance
NO ONE WALKS AWAY FROM A GUERRESI
They certainly don’t break the heart of one to join the NYPD and live to tell the tale.
But Elda Sarto did.
Six years ago, after yet another night ending with Leo Guerresi in cuffs, Elda made the hardest choice of her leaving behind the boy she loved and the mafia family that raised her to chase a dying dream.
Now she’s back in New York as one of the youngest detectives in the NYPD. But Leo’s not the reckless boy she left behind.
He’s a feared Capo, ruling his corner of the underworld with unforgiving brutality—and a grudge that burns hotter than ever.
When a missing girl ties Elda’s case to Leo’s empire, their paths collide… at gunpoint.
Thrown together by an investigation threatening both of their lives, Elda risks everything she’s fought for.
And Leo must decide how far he’s willing to go to protect the woman who left him for the other side.
Old wounds resurface.
Buried emotions ignite.
In a city built on loyalty and blood,
there’s nothing more dangerous than a history that refuses to stay buried.
They certainly don’t break the heart of one to join the NYPD and live to tell the tale.
But Elda Sarto did.
Six years ago, after yet another night ending with Leo Guerresi in cuffs, Elda made the hardest choice of her leaving behind the boy she loved and the mafia family that raised her to chase a dying dream.
Now she’s back in New York as one of the youngest detectives in the NYPD. But Leo’s not the reckless boy she left behind.
He’s a feared Capo, ruling his corner of the underworld with unforgiving brutality—and a grudge that burns hotter than ever.
When a missing girl ties Elda’s case to Leo’s empire, their paths collide… at gunpoint.
Thrown together by an investigation threatening both of their lives, Elda risks everything she’s fought for.
And Leo must decide how far he’s willing to go to protect the woman who left him for the other side.
Old wounds resurface.
Buried emotions ignite.
In a city built on loyalty and blood,
there’s nothing more dangerous than a history that refuses to stay buried.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 20, 2025
12 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
H.Z. Kore
2 books25 followersHana has a criminology degree that sits in a cracked frame and gets far more use fueling stories about forbidden love, broken loyalties, and characters who should know better—yet never do.
When she’s not writing morally questionable romance, she’s stressing out HR at her corporate job, feeding the local crows (they know too much), losing at online chess, or rage-quitting video games she once called “relaxing.” She also occasionally gets through her endless TBR list.
Her debut novel, Blood Is Blue, is a high-stakes mafia romance full of sharp edges, slow burns, and one very inconvenient love story.
When she’s not writing morally questionable romance, she’s stressing out HR at her corporate job, feeding the local crows (they know too much), losing at online chess, or rage-quitting video games she once called “relaxing.” She also occasionally gets through her endless TBR list.
Her debut novel, Blood Is Blue, is a high-stakes mafia romance full of sharp edges, slow burns, and one very inconvenient love story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 22, 2025
I’m a little bias—as the author ;)
(I’ve always wanted to say that)
(I’ve always wanted to say that)
July 25, 2025
Blood is Blue is my first dip into the mafia romance genre, and as someone who loves The Sopranos and The Godfather, I was not disappointed. The world-building is rich and grounded—it’s clear the author has done her research. This isn’t one of those romances that could work with a billionaire or a cowboy instead; the story needs this setting. The criminal underworld isn’t just a backdrop—it’s woven into every part of the plot, elevating the stakes and the characters.
There’s a procedural intensity to the action that keeps you gripped, and the romance—full of yearning and regret-laced angst—hits hard. The spicy scenes are not just there for the sake of it; they’re purposeful, character-driven, and fit seamlessly into the story. Leo isn't the easiest male lead to love, but that’s what makes him feel real. And Elda? She knows they shouldn’t be together, but their chemistry still sizzles off the page.
If you're after a romance that’s gritty, emotional, and deeply rooted in its world, this is it.
There’s a procedural intensity to the action that keeps you gripped, and the romance—full of yearning and regret-laced angst—hits hard. The spicy scenes are not just there for the sake of it; they’re purposeful, character-driven, and fit seamlessly into the story. Leo isn't the easiest male lead to love, but that’s what makes him feel real. And Elda? She knows they shouldn’t be together, but their chemistry still sizzles off the page.
If you're after a romance that’s gritty, emotional, and deeply rooted in its world, this is it.
September 15, 2025
I need to preface this review by saying Mafia Romances are pretty low on my favourite type of reads ..
BUT THIS WAS *CHEFS KISS* 😍
I genuinely could not put this book down, Leo and Elda are EVERYTHING. The storyline, the chemistry, the vibes .. absolutely immaculate.
Hana's writing style is absolutely captivating and the pace of this book was top tier! The character building was phenomenal, and I felt like I was a character in the book myself, I felt immersed from start to finish!
BUT THIS WAS *CHEFS KISS* 😍
I genuinely could not put this book down, Leo and Elda are EVERYTHING. The storyline, the chemistry, the vibes .. absolutely immaculate.
Hana's writing style is absolutely captivating and the pace of this book was top tier! The character building was phenomenal, and I felt like I was a character in the book myself, I felt immersed from start to finish!
September 7, 2025
Solid 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Watch full no spoiler review @DarinasReads here https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8SecUFU/
So much better than “Caught Up”!
The tension between two characters, the chemistry is tangible, palpable.
Usually I am not a big fan of romances. But I love it so much! I love every character, even side characters. I was rooting to Mella and Vanessa, both side characters, so much and I want to read Mella’s POV so so so much!
Main characters both have baggage of hurt and history of betrayal. Their worlds don’t and shouldn’t collide. Yet they are drawn together like magnets.
With double POVs and switches from present to past we get to know them better little by little.
Until the very end I had no idea where they end up. Their relationship or lack of is a careless dance on edge of a very sharp blade. Any tipping to any side could destroy both. Their future together is impossible. Yet the chemistry is undeniable. Their relationship is a kind of “strike a match and watch the world burn”.
This world is painted in such rich colors, it’s so vivid and alive! Nothing in it is black and white. It has its own life-like grey area where good and bad clash and mix.
I have so many questions. Like how does the author know all this? Is this all pure fiction or is there a base for it? How the author can write about New York so masterfully that I felt being there is a mystery for me.
Does the gangster mob word really value and cherish chastity and bride’s “purity” so much? Do they really arrange marriages?
The ending!!!!!! Are you kidding meeeee????? I screamed so loud at the end, I woke my husband. He thought I fell and hurt myself. This is what endings like these do to me!!!!
Watch full no spoiler review @DarinasReads here https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8SecUFU/
So much better than “Caught Up”!
The tension between two characters, the chemistry is tangible, palpable.
Usually I am not a big fan of romances. But I love it so much! I love every character, even side characters. I was rooting to Mella and Vanessa, both side characters, so much and I want to read Mella’s POV so so so much!
Main characters both have baggage of hurt and history of betrayal. Their worlds don’t and shouldn’t collide. Yet they are drawn together like magnets.
With double POVs and switches from present to past we get to know them better little by little.
Until the very end I had no idea where they end up. Their relationship or lack of is a careless dance on edge of a very sharp blade. Any tipping to any side could destroy both. Their future together is impossible. Yet the chemistry is undeniable. Their relationship is a kind of “strike a match and watch the world burn”.
This world is painted in such rich colors, it’s so vivid and alive! Nothing in it is black and white. It has its own life-like grey area where good and bad clash and mix.
I have so many questions. Like how does the author know all this? Is this all pure fiction or is there a base for it? How the author can write about New York so masterfully that I felt being there is a mystery for me.
Does the gangster mob word really value and cherish chastity and bride’s “purity” so much? Do they really arrange marriages?
The ending!!!!!! Are you kidding meeeee????? I screamed so loud at the end, I woke my husband. He thought I fell and hurt myself. This is what endings like these do to me!!!!
September 7, 2025
Girl! Im so proud of you! this was fantastic - what an absolutely brilliant cast of characters. My heart was in my ass the last 10% of this book
September 2, 2025
Blood is Blue is such a ride. I don’t usually read mafia romance, but this one won me over completely. The pacing is sharp, the writing keeps you hooked, and the sparks between Elda and Leo are impossible to ignore. I also loved Mella and all her spice. Her friendship with Elda brought such warmth, and those scenes balanced the darker moments perfectly.
And that ending? Hana, how dare you. I need book two immediately. 🩸💙
And that ending? Hana, how dare you. I need book two immediately. 🩸💙
September 12, 2025
This book?! For a Debut Author? I was so impressed!!
The backstory? The connection between both couples past and present that go with the hatred they had for one another? Was amazing
I loved their back and forth, the sexual tension was delicious as well!
I was so impressed by how in depth this book was and I learnt so many new words I had never heard of before as well
The Cliffhanger had me SHOOKED
5 ⭐️
The backstory? The connection between both couples past and present that go with the hatred they had for one another? Was amazing
I loved their back and forth, the sexual tension was delicious as well!
I was so impressed by how in depth this book was and I learnt so many new words I had never heard of before as well
The Cliffhanger had me SHOOKED
5 ⭐️
September 2, 2025
I LOVED this book so much! It was everything i wanted in a forbidden mafia romance and i was GAGGING for the spicy scenes. I can't wait for the next book to come out. I need to read it this instant.
August 29, 2025
Read this book a few days ago and I’m still thinking about some of the characters and twists. I read heaps of Mafia/bratva/mob romances but this one was really refreshing and different. Perfectly flawed characters.
October 8, 2025
DEBUT NOVEL?! Hana my friend, you are a genius <3
** this book is free on Kindle Unlimited & everyone should read this xx **
This was such a bingeable, intense and fun read!
We follow along Elda (FMC) and Leo (MMC) who have known one another since childhood and dated for a period of time. Leo's father is mafia boss making them all a very powerful family.
We get both past and present tense chapters while we deep dive into them dating in the past and how they are reunited in the present.
After going there separate ways Elda becomes a cop which essentially means she constantly has a target on her back from the people of her past and the cops she now works with.
Elda's precinct have a huge case they are working on and Leo's family is of course a little bit intertwined in this case which leads to her running into him and her old friends multiple times ..
Torn between her past and present Elda tries to focus on the case and the girls that need saving, but with so many moving pieces and a very elusive criminal lots of secrets come to light the closer they get to solving everything.
The storyline was so captivating and the last chapter - ugh.
What a roller-coaster - I will be not so patiently waiting for book 2 now.
** this book is free on Kindle Unlimited & everyone should read this xx **
This was such a bingeable, intense and fun read!
We follow along Elda (FMC) and Leo (MMC) who have known one another since childhood and dated for a period of time. Leo's father is mafia boss making them all a very powerful family.
We get both past and present tense chapters while we deep dive into them dating in the past and how they are reunited in the present.
After going there separate ways Elda becomes a cop which essentially means she constantly has a target on her back from the people of her past and the cops she now works with.
Elda's precinct have a huge case they are working on and Leo's family is of course a little bit intertwined in this case which leads to her running into him and her old friends multiple times ..
Torn between her past and present Elda tries to focus on the case and the girls that need saving, but with so many moving pieces and a very elusive criminal lots of secrets come to light the closer they get to solving everything.
The storyline was so captivating and the last chapter - ugh.
What a roller-coaster - I will be not so patiently waiting for book 2 now.
August 4, 2025
If you want a light-hearted, witty, and action-packed story with a darker undertone, mystery, and lovable characters, H.Z. Kore's Blood is Blue is a must-read to add to your TBR. I saw this story on TikTok and counted down the days till its release. The cover is absolutely stunning. Samantha Sanderson Marshall of Smash Designs did a tremendous job. It definitely lived up to my expectations, far exceeding them.
For starters, the premise is very inviting. The setting in New York tells me instantly that it will be action packed. I find reading investigation stories/mysteries in the past, I find it difficult to follow sometimes due to many of the intricacies going above my head to the point I struggle to enjoy the story. I found this story was easy to follow and still left me reeling for more. As someone currently in school for forensic science, I loved being able to reflect on my courses while reading this story.
My absolute favourite part of the story comes from the characters themselves. I found Elda witty, realistic, and quite likeable. H.Z. Kore wrote her emotions like I was watching a play unfold in front of me. I could tell how passionate she was and loved how she stands her ground while not being afraid to express her emotions. Leo, I could also see the character development that went into this story. As a pair, I found their interactions funny in certain exchanges (Without spoiling the story). Many times I was laughing giddy and then trying to keep my gasps quiet.
The side characters in this story were all complex and unique. While reading, I treated them as additional main characters.
After reading this story, I wanted more and can't wait for the sequel (If there is one, please tell me there is one). Well done, H.Z. Kore, I can't wait to see what you write next.
For starters, the premise is very inviting. The setting in New York tells me instantly that it will be action packed. I find reading investigation stories/mysteries in the past, I find it difficult to follow sometimes due to many of the intricacies going above my head to the point I struggle to enjoy the story. I found this story was easy to follow and still left me reeling for more. As someone currently in school for forensic science, I loved being able to reflect on my courses while reading this story.
My absolute favourite part of the story comes from the characters themselves. I found Elda witty, realistic, and quite likeable. H.Z. Kore wrote her emotions like I was watching a play unfold in front of me. I could tell how passionate she was and loved how she stands her ground while not being afraid to express her emotions. Leo, I could also see the character development that went into this story. As a pair, I found their interactions funny in certain exchanges (Without spoiling the story). Many times I was laughing giddy and then trying to keep my gasps quiet.
The side characters in this story were all complex and unique. While reading, I treated them as additional main characters.
After reading this story, I wanted more and can't wait for the sequel (If there is one, please tell me there is one). Well done, H.Z. Kore, I can't wait to see what you write next.
October 1, 2025
I've read my share of mafia romances and this one right here is one of the best.
July 31, 2025
6 Star Mafia Romance
I absolutely loved this book! I would give it 6 stars if I could.
I can't say enough about the character depth and the storyline. It was so compelling and I was hanging off of every word. You can tell that research was done and this is not a surface-level book - time, patience and heart went into it.
*kinda spoiler* Big cliffhanger at the end of this book - A lot of unanswered questions that I'm looking forward to finding out.
Hana, you knocked this out of the park and I need a book 2 whenever you have it in you! But for now, I'll patiently wait for a special edition pre-order because I need the physical copy on my shelf 🖤
I absolutely loved this book! I would give it 6 stars if I could.
I can't say enough about the character depth and the storyline. It was so compelling and I was hanging off of every word. You can tell that research was done and this is not a surface-level book - time, patience and heart went into it.
*kinda spoiler* Big cliffhanger at the end of this book - A lot of unanswered questions that I'm looking forward to finding out.
Hana, you knocked this out of the park and I need a book 2 whenever you have it in you! But for now, I'll patiently wait for a special edition pre-order because I need the physical copy on my shelf 🖤
September 26, 2025
I pulled out of retirement with writing reviews and using goodreads. So you know this is about to be good!
Blood is Blue absolutely blew me away! This book had me giggling, kicking my feet, and even yelling at the characters in frustration (in the best way). I found myself loving and hating the characters at the same time, which just shows how well they were written.
The pacing was perfect!!! Every twist and reveal gave me those “ah-ha!” moments where everything suddenly clicked, and details from earlier came back full circle. It was so satisfying to see the threads come together.
And that ending… arghhh!!! I’m still thinking about it. This story gave me every emotion I wanted and more, it was honestly perfect.
Highly recommend if you want a book that will completely pull you in and not let go.
Blood is Blue absolutely blew me away! This book had me giggling, kicking my feet, and even yelling at the characters in frustration (in the best way). I found myself loving and hating the characters at the same time, which just shows how well they were written.
The pacing was perfect!!! Every twist and reveal gave me those “ah-ha!” moments where everything suddenly clicked, and details from earlier came back full circle. It was so satisfying to see the threads come together.
And that ending… arghhh!!! I’m still thinking about it. This story gave me every emotion I wanted and more, it was honestly perfect.
Highly recommend if you want a book that will completely pull you in and not let go.
September 21, 2025
4.5⭐️
OMG that ending 🤯 I was not ready for it and I need book 2 yesterday!
The balance of cop drama, mystery, romance, crime and mafia vibes was executed so well. The pacing was perfect and had me hooked from chapter one. There are so many different avenues you are following in this story that you are genuinely invested in everything and don’t know where to look!
And all this is in a debut novel for the author!
I urge anyone to read this even those not usually into this genre as it is also not my go to because it was amazing!
OMG that ending 🤯 I was not ready for it and I need book 2 yesterday!
The balance of cop drama, mystery, romance, crime and mafia vibes was executed so well. The pacing was perfect and had me hooked from chapter one. There are so many different avenues you are following in this story that you are genuinely invested in everything and don’t know where to look!
And all this is in a debut novel for the author!
I urge anyone to read this even those not usually into this genre as it is also not my go to because it was amazing!
January 18, 2026
This was one of my first mafia romance books and I went in blind hehe
I really enjoyed this, the plot was really well written and the suspense to know what was happening put me on edge!
The tension and chemistry between Leo and Elda was next level and I was always waiting to see when something would happen.
And the ending HAD ME VERY ANGRY because I need book 2 asap!
For a debut novel it was so good and everyone should read it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I really enjoyed this, the plot was really well written and the suspense to know what was happening put me on edge!
The tension and chemistry between Leo and Elda was next level and I was always waiting to see when something would happen.
And the ending HAD ME VERY ANGRY because I need book 2 asap!
For a debut novel it was so good and everyone should read it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
October 3, 2025
Blood is Blue by H Z Kore was such a gripping contemporary mafia romance! I was hooked from the very beginning. I absolutely loved the storyline, the characters, and especially that nail-biting cliffhanger ending. Kore has done an incredible job creating a world full of danger, passion, and intensity which made me pick up the book and inhale as many pages as possible in every free moment.
The only reason this isn’t a full 5 stars is because the lack of professional editing did affect the flow and ease of reading at times. But honestly, that doesn’t take away from what is an amazing debut novel. This is definitely a must-read for mafia romance lovers, and I really hope Kore keeps writing, her storytelling talent deserves to be picked up by a great publisher.
I can’t wait to see what happens next!
The only reason this isn’t a full 5 stars is because the lack of professional editing did affect the flow and ease of reading at times. But honestly, that doesn’t take away from what is an amazing debut novel. This is definitely a must-read for mafia romance lovers, and I really hope Kore keeps writing, her storytelling talent deserves to be picked up by a great publisher.
I can’t wait to see what happens next!
October 7, 2025
This was my first mafia romance second if you count caught up.
And boy did I have a good time.
If you like the sopranos and svu thennnn ya gonna love this book those were the vibes I was getting.
So gripping. But that ending….. holy shit I need more asap.
And boy did I have a good time.
If you like the sopranos and svu thennnn ya gonna love this book those were the vibes I was getting.
So gripping. But that ending….. holy shit I need more asap.
January 5, 2026
I cannot express how much I need book 2 right now!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it had me gripped and engaged the whole way through.
I liked the characters most of the time, and although I’m not a huge fan of second chance romance, I actually quite enjoyed some of the flashback chapters.
I felt a lot of anger with how Elda was treated and I was impressed overall with the emotions the author was able to draw from me.
I was constantly wanting to read this book, every night before I went to sleep and every morning as soon as I woke up, I was reading it.
Can’t wait for book 2!
Characters - 9/10
Atmosphere - 9/10
Writing - 8/10
Plot - 9/10
Intrigue - 10/10
Logic - 8/10
Enjoyment - 10/10
4.5⭐️
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it had me gripped and engaged the whole way through.
I liked the characters most of the time, and although I’m not a huge fan of second chance romance, I actually quite enjoyed some of the flashback chapters.
I felt a lot of anger with how Elda was treated and I was impressed overall with the emotions the author was able to draw from me.
I was constantly wanting to read this book, every night before I went to sleep and every morning as soon as I woke up, I was reading it.
Can’t wait for book 2!
Characters - 9/10
Atmosphere - 9/10
Writing - 8/10
Plot - 9/10
Intrigue - 10/10
Logic - 8/10
Enjoyment - 10/10
4.5⭐️
July 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – My first mafia romance and now I’m feral for more
If you’ve seen my Bookmarked Tuesdays interview with Hana (aka H.Z. Kore herself), then you already know I am obsessed with this book. Blood is Blue is explosive, emotional, and everything I didn’t know I needed in a mafia romance.
This was my first time diving into the genre and let me tell you, what an introduction. Elda and Leo? The definition of tension. It’s giving star-crossed lovers, bulletproof trauma, and chemistry so sharp it might just slice you. The angst? Premium. The stakes? Sky high. The emotional damage? Worth it.
From around the 50% mark, I felt the tension coil tighter and tighter. I was practically crawling out of my skin, overwhelmed in the best (worst?) way. And just when I thought I couldn’t take it anymore, it peaks in the final chapters with the biggest cliffhanger. Hana, you know exactly what you're doing, and I am both in awe and agony.
Elda is fierce, determined, and loyal to her own sense of justice, while Leo is the kind of dangerous you should absolutely run from… and yet, here we are, rooting for every stolen moment between them. The way their shared past bleeds into every interaction? Chef’s kiss.
And then there’s Mella, my queen, my chaos gremlin, my absolute favourite. She is the walking definition of "scene-stealer" and I need her story yesterday.
Also, major props to Hana for creating such a gritty, cinematic world filled with morally grey characters, layered loyalties, and banter that had me cackling one minute and clutching my chest the next.
I cannot wait for book two. Like. Need. It. Now.
If you’ve seen my Bookmarked Tuesdays interview with Hana (aka H.Z. Kore herself), then you already know I am obsessed with this book. Blood is Blue is explosive, emotional, and everything I didn’t know I needed in a mafia romance.
This was my first time diving into the genre and let me tell you, what an introduction. Elda and Leo? The definition of tension. It’s giving star-crossed lovers, bulletproof trauma, and chemistry so sharp it might just slice you. The angst? Premium. The stakes? Sky high. The emotional damage? Worth it.
From around the 50% mark, I felt the tension coil tighter and tighter. I was practically crawling out of my skin, overwhelmed in the best (worst?) way. And just when I thought I couldn’t take it anymore, it peaks in the final chapters with the biggest cliffhanger. Hana, you know exactly what you're doing, and I am both in awe and agony.
Elda is fierce, determined, and loyal to her own sense of justice, while Leo is the kind of dangerous you should absolutely run from… and yet, here we are, rooting for every stolen moment between them. The way their shared past bleeds into every interaction? Chef’s kiss.
And then there’s Mella, my queen, my chaos gremlin, my absolute favourite. She is the walking definition of "scene-stealer" and I need her story yesterday.
Also, major props to Hana for creating such a gritty, cinematic world filled with morally grey characters, layered loyalties, and banter that had me cackling one minute and clutching my chest the next.
I cannot wait for book two. Like. Need. It. Now.
September 13, 2025
Wow!!!! This book took me by surprise! It was a Mafia, Cop, thriller vibes, it was so good.
I am not a second chance lover and I was a little on the fence with this one at the beginning. I had tiny issue on the pacing with the location for just the first couple of chapters. Then I got into it and I was SUCKED in. I mean the twists, the turns, the tension between our MC’s. OMG! I was pacing, heart pounding, sweating and just giddy with nerves. I had that moment where you sit up and scream no no no no several times. OMG!!!!!! H.Z. Kore, pulled these nerve wracking emotions out of me. I have missed Mafia romance and this one was a freaking brilliant one. I love the whole Cop vs Mafia, moral dilemmas, what is “actually” right and wrong. The PLOT WAS PLOTTING!!!!!!! And then, because the author is the best, she decides to leave us on the most horrible cliff hanger. And not like a small one where, let’s see where this goes but MID A CHAOTIC SCENE!!!!! I need book to rtfn! I highly recommend. I could not put this book down. 4,5 Stars!
I am not a second chance lover and I was a little on the fence with this one at the beginning. I had tiny issue on the pacing with the location for just the first couple of chapters. Then I got into it and I was SUCKED in. I mean the twists, the turns, the tension between our MC’s. OMG! I was pacing, heart pounding, sweating and just giddy with nerves. I had that moment where you sit up and scream no no no no several times. OMG!!!!!! H.Z. Kore, pulled these nerve wracking emotions out of me. I have missed Mafia romance and this one was a freaking brilliant one. I love the whole Cop vs Mafia, moral dilemmas, what is “actually” right and wrong. The PLOT WAS PLOTTING!!!!!!! And then, because the author is the best, she decides to leave us on the most horrible cliff hanger. And not like a small one where, let’s see where this goes but MID A CHAOTIC SCENE!!!!! I need book to rtfn! I highly recommend. I could not put this book down. 4,5 Stars!
December 23, 2025
Blood is Blue
"She was the air in my lungs. Until she wasn’t. And I’ve been a breathless man since."
I need book 2 now please!! I was invested in this book and didn't want it to end. When I saw that I only had 40 minutes left in the book, I knew we were going to be left hanging. And now I will be impatiently waiting for the next book lol. I need to know what happens. I have so many questions.
Elda and Leo were boyfriend and girlfriend once upon a time. They were even more than that they were engaged. They promised the world to each other, but sometimes life doesn't go the way you plan. Sadly, that was the case for them. Leo lives in the grey area and Elda couldn't look past it anymore. Especially since she wanted to be a cop. Leo couldn't have someone like that in his life so they parted ways. Until she came back, and they kept running into each other. Those old feelings return, but it changes nothing in their circumstances. Can they find a way to make it work? Or are they still doomed to live a life apart?
"She was the air in my lungs. Until she wasn’t. And I’ve been a breathless man since."
I need book 2 now please!! I was invested in this book and didn't want it to end. When I saw that I only had 40 minutes left in the book, I knew we were going to be left hanging. And now I will be impatiently waiting for the next book lol. I need to know what happens. I have so many questions.
Elda and Leo were boyfriend and girlfriend once upon a time. They were even more than that they were engaged. They promised the world to each other, but sometimes life doesn't go the way you plan. Sadly, that was the case for them. Leo lives in the grey area and Elda couldn't look past it anymore. Especially since she wanted to be a cop. Leo couldn't have someone like that in his life so they parted ways. Until she came back, and they kept running into each other. Those old feelings return, but it changes nothing in their circumstances. Can they find a way to make it work? Or are they still doomed to live a life apart?
April 5, 2026
I usually avoid Mafia books, but after a few friends raved about it and I had read maybe one too many fluffy romances I was finally in the mood to give it a go. I am so glad I did. Leo and Elda are now living in my brain, and that ending? Miiiiii! The drama! The emotions! It was all just so interesting and kept me hooked, I escaped socialising at Easter lunch just to read it.
I know I’m enjoying a story when I immediately want to be inside the heads of the other characters in the book and hear their stories as well. Everyone had something interesting about them and I feel this world can only expand into something even greater which I cannot wait to read in the future.
I’m also very thankful I don’t mind a good cliff hanger, especially if it gets me saying what the fuck out loud 🤣
Thank you Hana
I know I’m enjoying a story when I immediately want to be inside the heads of the other characters in the book and hear their stories as well. Everyone had something interesting about them and I feel this world can only expand into something even greater which I cannot wait to read in the future.
I’m also very thankful I don’t mind a good cliff hanger, especially if it gets me saying what the fuck out loud 🤣
Thank you Hana
October 16, 2025
This mafia romance masterpiece is as real as it gets! He's a mafia boss and she's the (clean) cop who loves him. . . Can you even IMAGINE?
Just like a mafia boss, H Z Kore will command your attention right out of the gate. Page 1, chapter 1 . . Blood is Blue is an authentic 100% out of the park - home run!
It is a gritty, unbridled and seriously blush worthy infusion of love, lust, betrayal, double crosses, retaliation, vengeance, chaos, bullets, blood and in perfect measure . . . just the right amount of spice.
Destined for awards, movie &/or television adaptations. I enjoyed this more than the television adaptation of The Sopranos.
More please H Z Kore
The Man Behind the Curtain, Author Melanie Rodgers
Just like a mafia boss, H Z Kore will command your attention right out of the gate. Page 1, chapter 1 . . Blood is Blue is an authentic 100% out of the park - home run!
It is a gritty, unbridled and seriously blush worthy infusion of love, lust, betrayal, double crosses, retaliation, vengeance, chaos, bullets, blood and in perfect measure . . . just the right amount of spice.
Destined for awards, movie &/or television adaptations. I enjoyed this more than the television adaptation of The Sopranos.
More please H Z Kore
The Man Behind the Curtain, Author Melanie Rodgers
January 29, 2026
I’ve always tiptoed around mafia romance, unsure if the whole ordeal was for me. Turns out… it’s not that hard to fall into at all. The story starts at a slower pace, which actually works perfectly especially if you’re a beginner It gives you time to settle in before the tension starts simmering and the guns a-blazing.
For context, my only real experience with cops and guns comes from Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Hawaii Five-O 😅 and whatever action movies my dad or husband puts on the telly. So watching these two worlds collide, mixed in with second chances, yearning, and that delicious slow-burn tension was surprisingly enjoyable.
Safe to say, I had a great time with this one.
For context, my only real experience with cops and guns comes from Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Hawaii Five-O 😅 and whatever action movies my dad or husband puts on the telly. So watching these two worlds collide, mixed in with second chances, yearning, and that delicious slow-burn tension was surprisingly enjoyable.
Safe to say, I had a great time with this one.
August 21, 2025
5 Stars / 2.5 Spice
‘Blood is Blue’ by H.Z Kore is a thrilling blend of mafia romance and detective suspense that kept me turning pages like a woman possessed.
My Thoughts:
I devoured this book in two days. My Kindle practically became an extension of my hand because I couldn’t tear myself away from Elda and Leo’s world. H.Z. Kore delivers a gripping, emotionally layered narrative filled with tension, heartache, longing—and yes, spice.
What really impressed me was the depth of the side characters. Each one felt fully fleshed out, adding richness and complexity to the story without stealing the spotlight from our leads. There’s a real sense of a world beyond just the central romance.
If you're beginning your descent into the world of dark mafia romance, ’Blood is Blueis the perfect gateway drug. It hits all the genre beats—danger, morally grey decisions, forbidden chemistry, slow-burning tension, violence, and intense emotional stakes—all wrapped up in a sharply plotted mystery.
I’m still reeling. No spoilers here but prepare to scream internally (or not-so-internally) by the end. H.Z. Kore owes me sleep and sanity.
The Plot:
After leaving behind a haunting past, Elda now lives by the law as a detective. But when she requests a transfer to care for her ailing uncle, she’s sent right back to the city she once ran from. And it doesn’t take long before she collides with the very person she left behind—Leo, her first love and now a powerful mafia capo.
The boy she once loved is still there, buried beneath a hardened, brutal exterior shaped by violence and time. Their reunion is anything but soft. Tensions rise, old emotions flare, and a new case forces them to work in dangerously close quarters.
The Characters:
Elda is fierce, principled, and sharp-tongued. A detective with a backbone of steel and a heart she tries to hide behind her badge. She's as stubborn as she is loyal, and her dynamic with Leo is chef’s kiss—electric, volatile, and deeply emotional.
Leo is the epitome of a calm, calculating mafia leader. Cold on the outside, loyal to a fault on the inside, and terrifyingly powerful. But with Elda? He cracks. There's vulnerability in him that only she can draw out and watching that happen is absolutely addictive.
The Tropes:
Forbidden Love
Second Chance
Morally Grey
Dual POV
Dark Mafia Romance
Cop vs Mafia
If you love edge-of-your-seat tension, fiery chemistry, and morally messy choices, ’Blood is Blue’ needs to be at the top of your TBR.
‘Blood is Blue’ by H.Z Kore is a thrilling blend of mafia romance and detective suspense that kept me turning pages like a woman possessed.
My Thoughts:
I devoured this book in two days. My Kindle practically became an extension of my hand because I couldn’t tear myself away from Elda and Leo’s world. H.Z. Kore delivers a gripping, emotionally layered narrative filled with tension, heartache, longing—and yes, spice.
What really impressed me was the depth of the side characters. Each one felt fully fleshed out, adding richness and complexity to the story without stealing the spotlight from our leads. There’s a real sense of a world beyond just the central romance.
If you're beginning your descent into the world of dark mafia romance, ’Blood is Blueis the perfect gateway drug. It hits all the genre beats—danger, morally grey decisions, forbidden chemistry, slow-burning tension, violence, and intense emotional stakes—all wrapped up in a sharply plotted mystery.
I’m still reeling. No spoilers here but prepare to scream internally (or not-so-internally) by the end. H.Z. Kore owes me sleep and sanity.
The Plot:
After leaving behind a haunting past, Elda now lives by the law as a detective. But when she requests a transfer to care for her ailing uncle, she’s sent right back to the city she once ran from. And it doesn’t take long before she collides with the very person she left behind—Leo, her first love and now a powerful mafia capo.
The boy she once loved is still there, buried beneath a hardened, brutal exterior shaped by violence and time. Their reunion is anything but soft. Tensions rise, old emotions flare, and a new case forces them to work in dangerously close quarters.
The Characters:
Elda is fierce, principled, and sharp-tongued. A detective with a backbone of steel and a heart she tries to hide behind her badge. She's as stubborn as she is loyal, and her dynamic with Leo is chef’s kiss—electric, volatile, and deeply emotional.
Leo is the epitome of a calm, calculating mafia leader. Cold on the outside, loyal to a fault on the inside, and terrifyingly powerful. But with Elda? He cracks. There's vulnerability in him that only she can draw out and watching that happen is absolutely addictive.
The Tropes:
Forbidden Love
Second Chance
Morally Grey
Dual POV
Dark Mafia Romance
Cop vs Mafia
If you love edge-of-your-seat tension, fiery chemistry, and morally messy choices, ’Blood is Blue’ needs to be at the top of your TBR.
December 23, 2025
Wow! Just Wow!! This contemporary mafia romance had me in a chokehold for the few days I was reading it. I absolutely loves this book and would highly recommend if Mafia books with angst, slow burn, spice and a lot of plot!
The characters where loveable, hateable and despicable as well.
I fell in love with Dom from the beginning, Leo had me loving and hating him, Mella was such a charismatic character with so much Spunk! I can go on about all the characters as there were quite a few throughout that were so engaging.
I cannot wait for book two! 5 Star read for sure!
The characters where loveable, hateable and despicable as well.
I fell in love with Dom from the beginning, Leo had me loving and hating him, Mella was such a charismatic character with so much Spunk! I can go on about all the characters as there were quite a few throughout that were so engaging.
I cannot wait for book two! 5 Star read for sure!
March 9, 2026
I have been looking for a book to help me with my writing slump. Writing dystopian fiction, I do love me a good mafia romance to completely switch off and swap "worlds" for a bit. This book is amazing I have to say. Easy to read and pull you in quite quickly. I am an ADHD reader so that's very good :). Having said that the writing style is not too easy and not too complicated, just perfect. The story line was weaved nicely with flashbacks and the ending...how shall I say: My heart was racing and I am still shattered! When is Nr2 coming???
August 6, 2025
Did I just become a Mafia Romance girlie?
Yes I did!
This story had me on edge the entire way through!
I got frustrated with the slow burn. So frustrated that I had to walk around my house in anticipation...
But when it finally happens we sre rewarded with fire works... so hold on in there!!!
The tension 🤌
The yearning 🤌
The entire story 🤌🤌🤌🤌🤌🤌
I am in the edge of my seat waiting for book 2!
Yes I did!
This story had me on edge the entire way through!
I got frustrated with the slow burn. So frustrated that I had to walk around my house in anticipation...
But when it finally happens we sre rewarded with fire works... so hold on in there!!!
The tension 🤌
The yearning 🤌
The entire story 🤌🤌🤌🤌🤌🤌
I am in the edge of my seat waiting for book 2!
November 23, 2025
Spectacular- give me 14 more.
Finished this in a day- quite literally could not put it down.
Now I am screaming at that cliffy…….
I can’t get over that this is a debut novel- the writing was impeccable. The way I cared about everyone in this book and not just the main two characters. The tension, the storyline, the spice?!?!?! Perfect.
I need the second book immediately. And I could name 10 characters that must have their own book.
Finished this in a day- quite literally could not put it down.
Now I am screaming at that cliffy…….
I can’t get over that this is a debut novel- the writing was impeccable. The way I cared about everyone in this book and not just the main two characters. The tension, the storyline, the spice?!?!?! Perfect.
I need the second book immediately. And I could name 10 characters that must have their own book.
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