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The Women of the Mafia #2
The Mafia's Daughter
Not yet published
Expected 20 Jan 26Capable and intelligent, Collins O’Brien was the obedient, favorite daughter of the deceased Irish mobster. Now, she’s just a woman trying to survive medical school, while hiding her weekly Saturday night adventures. After all, she’s not as perfect as she appears.
When the notorious Capo of the Bruno family, sends a marriage contract for her on the eve of her sister revealing The Games, a trio of deadly trials that determine the second-in-command of her family’s clan, she has to think fast. With no other choice, she claims to be engaged already to Hayes Monticello, her sister’s best friend.
Arrogant, hot and possessive, Hayes, the bane of her existence, has been her bodyguard since she was a kid—and is completely off limits. But right now, he’s her only hope.
Together, they agree to a tenuous deal—he’ll pretend to be the perfect fiancé, if she’ll help him win the Games. Once he’s Second, he can stop the contract and their relationship will end.
But when childish irritation gives way to forbidden passion, will the engagement remain fake? Or will their love be drowned by the incoming storm of deception and betrayal as Hayes’ dark past comes to light. And endangers them both.
When the notorious Capo of the Bruno family, sends a marriage contract for her on the eve of her sister revealing The Games, a trio of deadly trials that determine the second-in-command of her family’s clan, she has to think fast. With no other choice, she claims to be engaged already to Hayes Monticello, her sister’s best friend.
Arrogant, hot and possessive, Hayes, the bane of her existence, has been her bodyguard since she was a kid—and is completely off limits. But right now, he’s her only hope.
Together, they agree to a tenuous deal—he’ll pretend to be the perfect fiancé, if she’ll help him win the Games. Once he’s Second, he can stop the contract and their relationship will end.
But when childish irritation gives way to forbidden passion, will the engagement remain fake? Or will their love be drowned by the incoming storm of deception and betrayal as Hayes’ dark past comes to light. And endangers them both.
- GenresMafia Romance
345 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 20, 2026
21 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
E.D. Crowe
8 books61 followersE.D Crowe is a new author who runs on coffee, chaos, and unhealthy amounts of dark chocolate.
When not writing (which is a lot), she can be found howling at the moon, crafting potions in her kitchen or swooning over the deranged villains.
She has two Australian Shepherds who think they’re lap dogs, three feral children, and a golden retriever husband who is as far from the villain as possible.
Want to see new releases before they're announced? Sign up here: http://eepurl.com/iWvDCk
Want to chat about my books? Join my Coven (Facebook Reader group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/55189...
When not writing (which is a lot), she can be found howling at the moon, crafting potions in her kitchen or swooning over the deranged villains.
She has two Australian Shepherds who think they’re lap dogs, three feral children, and a golden retriever husband who is as far from the villain as possible.
Want to see new releases before they're announced? Sign up here: http://eepurl.com/iWvDCk
Want to chat about my books? Join my Coven (Facebook Reader group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/55189...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
January 12, 2026
The Mafia's Daughter, book 2 in The Women of the Mafia series.
This book is so dang good!!! FMC Collins is just trying to finish medical school, and enjoy her weekly evening performance where she secretly gets to show a bit of her dark side off to strangers. In a horrible twist, one of the rival mafia leaders plan to have Collins as his wife, but he's a brutal man who only uses and breaks women. Collins is concerned her sister, Maeve (Ace) has more regard for what is best for the clan vs caring about Collins, and makes a rash decision to say that she is engaged....to Hayes. MMC Hayes, Maeve's best friend, is taken completely off guard, as he already had a plan in place to prevent the contract. Hayes and Collins agree to their fake engagement, until the clan games for second in command, has finished.
This story is delectably dark and twisted, and I loved every second of it! First, I appreciate how much actual mafia action we get in these stories, this is not just a mafia romance, but a true mafia story with romance. The author holds no punches when it comes to the mafia aspects of the story, and I am here for it. Collins is not the "good girl" that everyone thinks she is, but has a very dark side, one that happens to match perfectly to Hayes. Hayes, of course, has secretly wanted Collins forever, but O'Brien sisters are off limits, a decree from Maeve. But now? Hayes finally has the opportunity to make Collins truly HIS. Hayes and Collins dark sides are match for match, as they discover secrets about each other and slowly wonder if this "fake" engagement might be something real.
So much action in this story too, I could not put this book down, there was a new turn at every chapter with the looming war between two mafia clans, the clan games taking place, and Hayes and Collins' explosive chemistry. I enjoyed getting to know Maeve and Killian's characters better as well, and I really look forward to the next book between them, their love/hate for each other is just going to make for a perfect story!
Some fav quotes:
"Does it add a bit of taboo, knowing my sister's best friend, the man who annoys me to no end, is out there? That he's seen my naked body, lusted over it all like the rest? That I know, he never looks away? Absolutely."
"But when the woman you're in love with starts to strip? You park your ass in the chair and thank God for the small gift. It was a deeply held secret. I'm in love with Maeve's younger sister."
"She's a viper, with a bite strong enough to bring down a man three times her size, hidden inside this tiny package of big green eyes and plump lips. She puts me in my place, and f***, if I don't enjoy it."
"Because Hayes is hot-royally, exquisitely hot, in a way men shouldn't be. With strong hands, a chiseled body and vicious blue eyes, he is a walking thunderstorm ready to unleash torrents of chaos all over my life."
""You're completely, utterly, mine.""
"This beautiful creature to my side is as dirty as the rest of us, and if it doesn't warm the black soul inside my chest to feel a kinship with her."
""Baby, you've always belonged to me. You've just never realized it.""
"I'm drenched. Something about Hayes hurting someone else-for me, has turned my mind into mush and that deranged side perks up, wanting more. Including, wondering how good would he taste?"
"He sees the darkness and lets it consume him. Then, he asks for more."
""You show me the darkest bits of your soul and trust me with it-and I feel more at home in the dark with you, than I ever did alone in the light.""
""Viper, you could cut out my heart, hand it to me and I would say thank you. I'll let you do anything you want to me-as long as you say you're mine.""
Thank you so much to Grey's Promotions and the author for a copy of this book!
This book is so dang good!!! FMC Collins is just trying to finish medical school, and enjoy her weekly evening performance where she secretly gets to show a bit of her dark side off to strangers. In a horrible twist, one of the rival mafia leaders plan to have Collins as his wife, but he's a brutal man who only uses and breaks women. Collins is concerned her sister, Maeve (Ace) has more regard for what is best for the clan vs caring about Collins, and makes a rash decision to say that she is engaged....to Hayes. MMC Hayes, Maeve's best friend, is taken completely off guard, as he already had a plan in place to prevent the contract. Hayes and Collins agree to their fake engagement, until the clan games for second in command, has finished.
This story is delectably dark and twisted, and I loved every second of it! First, I appreciate how much actual mafia action we get in these stories, this is not just a mafia romance, but a true mafia story with romance. The author holds no punches when it comes to the mafia aspects of the story, and I am here for it. Collins is not the "good girl" that everyone thinks she is, but has a very dark side, one that happens to match perfectly to Hayes. Hayes, of course, has secretly wanted Collins forever, but O'Brien sisters are off limits, a decree from Maeve. But now? Hayes finally has the opportunity to make Collins truly HIS. Hayes and Collins dark sides are match for match, as they discover secrets about each other and slowly wonder if this "fake" engagement might be something real.
So much action in this story too, I could not put this book down, there was a new turn at every chapter with the looming war between two mafia clans, the clan games taking place, and Hayes and Collins' explosive chemistry. I enjoyed getting to know Maeve and Killian's characters better as well, and I really look forward to the next book between them, their love/hate for each other is just going to make for a perfect story!
Some fav quotes:
"Does it add a bit of taboo, knowing my sister's best friend, the man who annoys me to no end, is out there? That he's seen my naked body, lusted over it all like the rest? That I know, he never looks away? Absolutely."
"But when the woman you're in love with starts to strip? You park your ass in the chair and thank God for the small gift. It was a deeply held secret. I'm in love with Maeve's younger sister."
"She's a viper, with a bite strong enough to bring down a man three times her size, hidden inside this tiny package of big green eyes and plump lips. She puts me in my place, and f***, if I don't enjoy it."
"Because Hayes is hot-royally, exquisitely hot, in a way men shouldn't be. With strong hands, a chiseled body and vicious blue eyes, he is a walking thunderstorm ready to unleash torrents of chaos all over my life."
""You're completely, utterly, mine.""
"This beautiful creature to my side is as dirty as the rest of us, and if it doesn't warm the black soul inside my chest to feel a kinship with her."
""Baby, you've always belonged to me. You've just never realized it.""
"I'm drenched. Something about Hayes hurting someone else-for me, has turned my mind into mush and that deranged side perks up, wanting more. Including, wondering how good would he taste?"
"He sees the darkness and lets it consume him. Then, he asks for more."
""You show me the darkest bits of your soul and trust me with it-and I feel more at home in the dark with you, than I ever did alone in the light.""
""Viper, you could cut out my heart, hand it to me and I would say thank you. I'll let you do anything you want to me-as long as you say you're mine.""
Thank you so much to Grey's Promotions and the author for a copy of this book!
January 12, 2026
Thank you Greys Promotion and E.D. Crowe for the ARC for an honest review! 🩶
This book has SOOOOO many triggers so be warned but this book I think destroyed me because it was so good and so bad—in the this was dark for me. 😭
I stayed up determined to finish this and it didn’t disappoint!! THE DARKNESS IN THIS BOOK. The vulnerability, the protection, the strength, the love…ugh so good but so dark i cant!
You will need to just read this for yourself and prepare to read a pick me up after…maybe? 😩👀
This book has SOOOOO many triggers so be warned but this book I think destroyed me because it was so good and so bad—in the this was dark for me. 😭
I stayed up determined to finish this and it didn’t disappoint!! THE DARKNESS IN THIS BOOK. The vulnerability, the protection, the strength, the love…ugh so good but so dark i cant!
You will need to just read this for yourself and prepare to read a pick me up after…maybe? 😩👀
January 9, 2026
A woman raised to obey. A man willing to burn the world.
4.75 ⭐️ | 4.25 🌶️
E.D. Crowe did not come to play with The Mafia’s Daughter, the second instalment in the Women Of The Mafia series and honestly? I devoured it.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of book one, so I already knew Crowe’s writing style and the brutal, seductive world she was building. But this book? This one is rawer, darker, and far more twisted in the best possible way. The stakes are higher, the emotions cut deeper and the characters feel painfully, achingly human.
Collins O’Brien is a fascinating FMC. On the surface, she’s composed, brilliant, and dutiful: the perfect mafia daughter. Beneath that? She’s exhausted, scarred, and quietly suffocating under expectations she never chose. Groomed from childhood to be the clan’s doctor, shaped by trauma, illness, and loss, Collins is strong in a way that feels real: not glamorous, not effortless, but earned. Her internal battle for autonomy is one of the most compelling threads in the story.
And then there’s Hayes Monticello. Arrogant, possessive, infuriating and devastatingly loyal. The bodyguard-best-friend-forbidden-love dynamic is executed so well here. Hayes has loved Collins in silence for years and the tension that simmers between them? Electric. Their fake engagement trope is deliciously messy, charged with unspoken truths, longing and a constant sense of “this is going to implode, isn’t it?”
What really got me, though, was their relationship. It’s not polished or pretty. It’s raw, deep, frustrating, tender, and painfully honest. The way childish irritation gives way to something far more dangerous and intimate feels natural and earned. No insta-love, no easy answers, just two deeply flawed people trying to survive a world designed to own them.
The plot is fast-paced and ruthless, full of twists that kept me hooked from page one. I told myself I’d read “a few chapters.” Reader, I finished it in one sitting, responsibilities be damned.
Dark, unhinged, emotional, and intoxicating, The Mafia’s Daughter is the kind of book that grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go.
Thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the e-ARC, and congratulations to E.D. Crowe on the upcoming release (January 20th). I cannot wait for the third instalment, Maeve and Killian already have me in a chokehold.
Highly recommend if you love dark romance, forbidden tension, morally grey men, and women fighting to reclaim their destiny.
4.75 ⭐️ | 4.25 🌶️
E.D. Crowe did not come to play with The Mafia’s Daughter, the second instalment in the Women Of The Mafia series and honestly? I devoured it.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of book one, so I already knew Crowe’s writing style and the brutal, seductive world she was building. But this book? This one is rawer, darker, and far more twisted in the best possible way. The stakes are higher, the emotions cut deeper and the characters feel painfully, achingly human.
Collins O’Brien is a fascinating FMC. On the surface, she’s composed, brilliant, and dutiful: the perfect mafia daughter. Beneath that? She’s exhausted, scarred, and quietly suffocating under expectations she never chose. Groomed from childhood to be the clan’s doctor, shaped by trauma, illness, and loss, Collins is strong in a way that feels real: not glamorous, not effortless, but earned. Her internal battle for autonomy is one of the most compelling threads in the story.
And then there’s Hayes Monticello. Arrogant, possessive, infuriating and devastatingly loyal. The bodyguard-best-friend-forbidden-love dynamic is executed so well here. Hayes has loved Collins in silence for years and the tension that simmers between them? Electric. Their fake engagement trope is deliciously messy, charged with unspoken truths, longing and a constant sense of “this is going to implode, isn’t it?”
What really got me, though, was their relationship. It’s not polished or pretty. It’s raw, deep, frustrating, tender, and painfully honest. The way childish irritation gives way to something far more dangerous and intimate feels natural and earned. No insta-love, no easy answers, just two deeply flawed people trying to survive a world designed to own them.
The plot is fast-paced and ruthless, full of twists that kept me hooked from page one. I told myself I’d read “a few chapters.” Reader, I finished it in one sitting, responsibilities be damned.
Dark, unhinged, emotional, and intoxicating, The Mafia’s Daughter is the kind of book that grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go.
Thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the e-ARC, and congratulations to E.D. Crowe on the upcoming release (January 20th). I cannot wait for the third instalment, Maeve and Killian already have me in a chokehold.
Highly recommend if you love dark romance, forbidden tension, morally grey men, and women fighting to reclaim their destiny.
January 9, 2026
ARC Review of ‘The Mafia’s Daughter’ by ED Crowe.
This story pulled me in real quick so I was able to finish this within a few hours!
Book 2 delves in the story if Hayes and Collins.
Hayes, the one that got away from the Bruno Mafia and manages to get in the O’Brian syndicate. Working himself up to be Maeve’s right hand.
So many skeletons in this man’s closet, he really is good in his job taking care of ‘business’ with their enemies.
But his soft spot is Collins, who he has loved since they were young.
Collins, one of the daughters of Ferguson, cruel previous boss of the O’Brian clan, that’s until he was ‘gently’ removed.
She is supposed to be the kind, soft and demure daughter, going through medical school.
But she has something dark inside if her, courtesy of her upbringing.
And she too has had a crush on Hayes since childhood.
Their love story is of a push and pull, till they finally get together and chemistry blasts through.
Their 🌶️ is delicious, although some scenes I wished there was a shower involved before diving in🫣🤣. But 🌶️ nonetheless.
The subplots weave naturally throughout the book and are enjoyable to keep the intrigue up.
Would definitely want to read more installments of this series.
4/5⭐️
This story pulled me in real quick so I was able to finish this within a few hours!
Book 2 delves in the story if Hayes and Collins.
Hayes, the one that got away from the Bruno Mafia and manages to get in the O’Brian syndicate. Working himself up to be Maeve’s right hand.
So many skeletons in this man’s closet, he really is good in his job taking care of ‘business’ with their enemies.
But his soft spot is Collins, who he has loved since they were young.
Collins, one of the daughters of Ferguson, cruel previous boss of the O’Brian clan, that’s until he was ‘gently’ removed.
She is supposed to be the kind, soft and demure daughter, going through medical school.
But she has something dark inside if her, courtesy of her upbringing.
And she too has had a crush on Hayes since childhood.
Their love story is of a push and pull, till they finally get together and chemistry blasts through.
Their 🌶️ is delicious, although some scenes I wished there was a shower involved before diving in🫣🤣. But 🌶️ nonetheless.
The subplots weave naturally throughout the book and are enjoyable to keep the intrigue up.
Would definitely want to read more installments of this series.
4/5⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a wild ride The Mafia's Daughter was! I don't know what it says about me. But I absolutely loved how Collins embraced all her sided. You know it's true love just by the things Hayes is willing to do for Collins. This may not be your "typical" romance, but I don't think "typical" would work for them.
This is a darrrrkkkk romance. Please check your trigger warnings. Because this is a definite recommendation from me.
This is a darrrrkkkk romance. Please check your trigger warnings. Because this is a definite recommendation from me.
January 13, 2026
Another fantastic book by E.D. Crowe. the writing is great, plot is amazing and that SPICE... Nothing can touch it.
I loved this story... I am a sucker for a fake marriage for sure. I love how the FMC came into her own. Of course not without the help of our MMC. What a great romance for them as well. And the plot!!! I loved how it connected all the characters we have met so far and the "mafia' dynamics. Such an interesting story and I can't want to see more unfold.
I am hooked on this Family! The Series is killer (pun intended). I can't wait for the next installment. I realllllyyyyy hope we get more on Maeve & Killian!!! Fingers crossed!
I loved this story... I am a sucker for a fake marriage for sure. I love how the FMC came into her own. Of course not without the help of our MMC. What a great romance for them as well. And the plot!!! I loved how it connected all the characters we have met so far and the "mafia' dynamics. Such an interesting story and I can't want to see more unfold.
I am hooked on this Family! The Series is killer (pun intended). I can't wait for the next installment. I realllllyyyyy hope we get more on Maeve & Killian!!! Fingers crossed!
December 15, 2025
beta read- will give full review after ARC but trust me, its 5 stars
January 11, 2026
Rating: 5 ☆
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Pub: January 20, 2026
Thank you to @greyspromo for this ARC!
Tropes:
-Older sibling’s best friend
-Fake fiancée
-Forced proximity
-Mafia romance
This book owned me from page one. I could barely put it down!! What starts as a mafia marriage-contract-and-bodyguard setup spins into this electric, high-stakes duet of survival, strategy, and enemies-to-lovers tension that only gets more unhinged in the best ways. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time!
“Rest, baby. You’ve had a rough day. I’ll fight the monsters while you sleep.”
Collins was such a badass FMC—capable, brilliant, calculating, and far less perfect than everyone assumes. I loved how she navigated med school, family politics, and her secret Saturday adventures all while refusing to be a pawn in the Irish mob’s marriage games. She doesn’t just endure the chaos—she outsmarts it, and I was cheering for her every chapter. I also really loved her sister, Maeve, who was also a badass.
Then there’s Hayes—arrogant, possessive, infuriatingly hot, and the exact kind of off-limits that makes you want to break rules. Their fake engagement + strategic alliance gave tension, partnership, and betrayal all rolled into one. The slow shift from mutual irritation to forbidden passion was deliiiicious.
And the plot? So. Much. Plot. Deadly trials. Secret pasts. Power plays. Mafia clans. The Games themselves added such a sharp, clever layer and raised the stakes beyond just romance. While this had a decent amount of spice, it didn’t take away from the plot which I appreciated.
Honestly? I’m already mourning the fact it’s over.
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Pub: January 20, 2026
Thank you to @greyspromo for this ARC!
Tropes:
-Older sibling’s best friend
-Fake fiancée
-Forced proximity
-Mafia romance
This book owned me from page one. I could barely put it down!! What starts as a mafia marriage-contract-and-bodyguard setup spins into this electric, high-stakes duet of survival, strategy, and enemies-to-lovers tension that only gets more unhinged in the best ways. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time!
“Rest, baby. You’ve had a rough day. I’ll fight the monsters while you sleep.”
Collins was such a badass FMC—capable, brilliant, calculating, and far less perfect than everyone assumes. I loved how she navigated med school, family politics, and her secret Saturday adventures all while refusing to be a pawn in the Irish mob’s marriage games. She doesn’t just endure the chaos—she outsmarts it, and I was cheering for her every chapter. I also really loved her sister, Maeve, who was also a badass.
Then there’s Hayes—arrogant, possessive, infuriatingly hot, and the exact kind of off-limits that makes you want to break rules. Their fake engagement + strategic alliance gave tension, partnership, and betrayal all rolled into one. The slow shift from mutual irritation to forbidden passion was deliiiicious.
And the plot? So. Much. Plot. Deadly trials. Secret pasts. Power plays. Mafia clans. The Games themselves added such a sharp, clever layer and raised the stakes beyond just romance. While this had a decent amount of spice, it didn’t take away from the plot which I appreciated.
Honestly? I’m already mourning the fact it’s over.
Review of advance copy
ARC Review
A spicy mafia tale that had me from the start. It is woven with so much story. Never quite read a mafia book of its kind. We're talking about packing a punch. As the FMC of the story is a wild rebellious soul, but she had more to her than meets the eye. Although doesn't want others to know the secrets she keeps. While someone she knows, watches her closer than she can ever imagine. Forcing these main characters into a forbidden, fake engagement, one is the siblings best friend, and it is a “she's mine” vibe from early on.
Absolutely a delicious, stunning written work I could not put down. Finished within hours of starting. This is my first book read by this author. I definitely was not disappointed. I only wished it was double in size. What a wild ride! Fully action packed, more story than smut but when it was hot, it was a scorcher. Loved this, five stars! I highly recommend it!
A spicy mafia tale that had me from the start. It is woven with so much story. Never quite read a mafia book of its kind. We're talking about packing a punch. As the FMC of the story is a wild rebellious soul, but she had more to her than meets the eye. Although doesn't want others to know the secrets she keeps. While someone she knows, watches her closer than she can ever imagine. Forcing these main characters into a forbidden, fake engagement, one is the siblings best friend, and it is a “she's mine” vibe from early on.
Absolutely a delicious, stunning written work I could not put down. Finished within hours of starting. This is my first book read by this author. I definitely was not disappointed. I only wished it was double in size. What a wild ride! Fully action packed, more story than smut but when it was hot, it was a scorcher. Loved this, five stars! I highly recommend it!
January 12, 2026
What a read. This is how you do mafia romance. You get all of it—the violence, the heat, the romance, the impossible choices, the trauma—every element done right. E.D. Crowe gives you just enough to keep you hooked until you hit that absolutely explosive ending.
Her writing is phenomenal. The storytelling is phenomenal. Honestly, everything I’ve read by her has been amazing. If you love fantasy, mafia, dark romance, and men who are powerful yet fiercely devoted—obsessive, protective, and unapologetic about loving their women—this is for you.
There’s a lot to unpack when it comes to trauma, much of it carefully alluded to through out until you have eto facet if Italy’s the case. The first book; The Mafia Bride focuses on the baby sister, Sloan. This book centers on the middle daughter, Collins. The final book in the trilogy will be about Maeve.
These are interconnected standalones, that can be read as it own story but has the same family/world with different past traumas and every single one is worth the read.
As always, your mental health matters, check your triggers
Her writing is phenomenal. The storytelling is phenomenal. Honestly, everything I’ve read by her has been amazing. If you love fantasy, mafia, dark romance, and men who are powerful yet fiercely devoted—obsessive, protective, and unapologetic about loving their women—this is for you.
There’s a lot to unpack when it comes to trauma, much of it carefully alluded to through out until you have eto facet if Italy’s the case. The first book; The Mafia Bride focuses on the baby sister, Sloan. This book centers on the middle daughter, Collins. The final book in the trilogy will be about Maeve.
These are interconnected standalones, that can be read as it own story but has the same family/world with different past traumas and every single one is worth the read.
As always, your mental health matters, check your triggers
January 15, 2026
FUCK TO THE FUCK YES
What more could you what?????? I’m actually obsessed with these two. Like it literally starts out with her showing her entire goodies to a dirty club….
“Forever & a day” 😭😭😭😭
What more could you what?????? I’m actually obsessed with these two. Like it literally starts out with her showing her entire goodies to a dirty club….
“Forever & a day” 😭😭😭😭
January 10, 2026
”if there was anyone who i would let see all my broken pieces, it was always going to be you”
i loved this! wasn’t sure at first because “the games” was giving gladiator in my head but thankfully, that wasn’t the case!
Both Collin’s and Hayes have had a crush for pretty much the entire time they’ve known each other. Collin’s thought there was no way Hayes was interested and Hayes didn’t want to go there with his best friend (and chief’s) little sister.
But when an enemy comes knocking with a marriage proposal for Collin’s that her sister seems to be considering, Collin’s tells her that she’s already engaged..to Hayes.
She thinks they can fake an engagement to get her sister off her back and they can call it quits once Hayes wins The Games.. but now that Hayes has a chance with his dream girl? He’s never letting her go
-fake engagement
-sister’s best friend
-bodyguard romance
-forced proximity
-mafia
-medical student/dancer FMC
-mutual pining
-OTT protective/possessive
-touch her and die
i loved this! wasn’t sure at first because “the games” was giving gladiator in my head but thankfully, that wasn’t the case!
Both Collin’s and Hayes have had a crush for pretty much the entire time they’ve known each other. Collin’s thought there was no way Hayes was interested and Hayes didn’t want to go there with his best friend (and chief’s) little sister.
But when an enemy comes knocking with a marriage proposal for Collin’s that her sister seems to be considering, Collin’s tells her that she’s already engaged..to Hayes.
She thinks they can fake an engagement to get her sister off her back and they can call it quits once Hayes wins The Games.. but now that Hayes has a chance with his dream girl? He’s never letting her go
-fake engagement
-sister’s best friend
-bodyguard romance
-forced proximity
-mafia
-medical student/dancer FMC
-mutual pining
-OTT protective/possessive
-touch her and die
January 13, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
Mafia? Fake engagement? Yes and yes. This book pulled me in from the start. Collins’ older sister Maeve is the mafia boss. When the rival mafia boss wants a contract to marry Collins, she lies and tells Maeve shes engaged to Hayes, Maeve’s best friend.
I had so much fun reading this book because it was so different than a lot of the mafia books. The chemistry between Hayes and Collins from the beginning was 🔥. The games Maeve held to choose Maeve’s second in command were fun and kept me turning the pages. I loved how Collins was finally able to embrace who she was after working through her past. Also, how does one find a fake fiancé like Hayes? I would like to sign up for one. Im so excited for Maeve and Killian’s story 💜
Mafia? Fake engagement? Yes and yes. This book pulled me in from the start. Collins’ older sister Maeve is the mafia boss. When the rival mafia boss wants a contract to marry Collins, she lies and tells Maeve shes engaged to Hayes, Maeve’s best friend.
I had so much fun reading this book because it was so different than a lot of the mafia books. The chemistry between Hayes and Collins from the beginning was 🔥. The games Maeve held to choose Maeve’s second in command were fun and kept me turning the pages. I loved how Collins was finally able to embrace who she was after working through her past. Also, how does one find a fake fiancé like Hayes? I would like to sign up for one. Im so excited for Maeve and Killian’s story 💜
January 18, 2026
Oh Hayes!!! I absolutely fell in love with Hayes and Collins’ love story. A tale of what you think will never be, both loving each other from a far then finding the other half of their soul with forced proximity. The enduring love that all these characters have for each other even though they are in a mafia and all show it with violence is just a beautiful thing to read. Men who will but the world for their woman is why I love dark romance! I absolutely loved how Collins found herself and allowed her past to help shape her future with Hayes instead of being scared of it. “Hayes without you, I’m a boat lost at sea, but with you? I’m home.” I can’t wait to see Maeve and Killians story! I received this book as an ARC. This is my voluntary and honest review!
January 9, 2026
This is a new author for me. The blurb caught my attention & I was hooked from the start. I love a fmc who doesn’t play & shows her confidence. Collins has her own insecurities & life hasn’t been easy on her. Her family runs the clan. She is one of the younger siblings. But she didn’t leave that world unscathed. Then comes her sister’s best friend. We all love when we fall in love with someone we can’t have. Hayes. Bad boy who will do anything for the woman he loves. Possessive to the core. Touch her and die. Though he has his own demons to battle he will face them for her, Collins. These 2 will have challenges to face but will their love make it through? Or will they loose it to that dark world they live in?? From beginning to end you will be hooked. I loved it & can’t wait to see the next book in the series to come.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Collins was the middle daughter who was smart and wanted to be a doctor. Her sister is in charge of the Irish clan and will do whatever is needed to keep the clan safe. If it means selling a family member to another family if it is good for the clan. Hayes is her sister's right hand person. They take care of each other. Collins has had a crush on him forever. When a contract comes in for Collins, she tells her sister that she is already engaged, to her right hand man. This is the start of a good dark romance that has tons of action and a storyline that keeps you reading to the last page.
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
January 13, 2026
I did not expect this book to be what it was. Hayes is sort of unhinged in his own way, not as much as Killian, but still unhinged nonetheless. And then collins has a darkness that calls to Hayes’s darkness, they are basically made for one another. But they both have past traumas which just depends their connection that they already have by being forced to be around each other, since he was placed as her bodyguard. this book was amazingly written because of the main characters backstories, their storyline, the plot of collins navigating and finding herself in the life of the mafia world, the dramas that ensue of being in the mafia world, finding comfort in each other, and so much more. Such a great read and book overall. LOVED!
January 14, 2026
I found this book so good to read. From the first page I was hooked, I did not read the first book so unsure whether things would make a little bit more sense but it was still enjoyable without added information.
I would highly recommend this book if you like Mafia romances
I would highly recommend this book if you like Mafia romances
Review of advance copy received from Author
thanks Grey's PR for the ARC
I don't read this type of book (mafia) but God! it was good!
"Forever and a day" 🥹
I loved Hayes and Collins, how protective they're of each other. how much love they have for each other.
I can't wait to read book no. 3
because... oh dear Killian. Can't wait to read about him and Maeve
I don't read this type of book (mafia) but God! it was good!
"Forever and a day" 🥹
I loved Hayes and Collins, how protective they're of each other. how much love they have for each other.
I can't wait to read book no. 3
because... oh dear Killian. Can't wait to read about him and Maeve
Review of advance copy received from Autre
ARC Review
4,5/5⭐️
I really liked Collins and Hayes story ❤️ ! It was dark, spicy and action-packed. I've felt so much emotions while reading this 🥹. I also really liked the characters. They were dark, protective, but also, a little bit funny at times. The double POVs helped me understand them more and get to know their respective traumas ❤️🩹. The story was easy to follow and fast to read. There were some of my favorite tropes, such as : found-family, "touch her and die" and fake engagement ❤️ They were all brought into the story perfectly 🤩. I also really liked the "Games", that upped the stakes of this story. Overall, I really liked it and if you love dark Mafia romance, I totally recommend it 😍. As always, check the TWs !
Favorite quote 📚
"Forever and a day"
4,5/5⭐️
I really liked Collins and Hayes story ❤️ ! It was dark, spicy and action-packed. I've felt so much emotions while reading this 🥹. I also really liked the characters. They were dark, protective, but also, a little bit funny at times. The double POVs helped me understand them more and get to know their respective traumas ❤️🩹. The story was easy to follow and fast to read. There were some of my favorite tropes, such as : found-family, "touch her and die" and fake engagement ❤️ They were all brought into the story perfectly 🤩. I also really liked the "Games", that upped the stakes of this story. Overall, I really liked it and if you love dark Mafia romance, I totally recommend it 😍. As always, check the TWs !
Favorite quote 📚
"Forever and a day"
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Ate this up in 1 sitting. Loved the story, characters and the author's style of writing.
Cant wait for book 3 to come out.
Cant wait for book 3 to come out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
This was intense! There was so much drama and I loved it!! This was so good!!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
This was intense! There was so much drama and I loved it!! This was so good!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hayes was soo swoon worthy! This family is filled with dark pasts and trauma, but damn do they love fiercely. Enjoyed this ride! Recommend to anyone who loves a mafia romance!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Forever & A Day
Hayes & Collins both loved each other for a while but neither said anything. Hayes has been Collins' sister's best friend. He's been her body guard. So much taboo but that just makes it even better! After Book 1 & Book 2 seeing all that Maeve has done for her sister's was amazing! I'm so happy that Collins got Hayes to agree to her crazy claim, but we all knew he would! That man is head over heels for her! And who doesn't love a psycho hitter?
Hayes & Collins both loved each other for a while but neither said anything. Hayes has been Collins' sister's best friend. He's been her body guard. So much taboo but that just makes it even better! After Book 1 & Book 2 seeing all that Maeve has done for her sister's was amazing! I'm so happy that Collins got Hayes to agree to her crazy claim, but we all knew he would! That man is head over heels for her! And who doesn't love a psycho hitter?
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book I read it in one day couldn't put it down the twists and turns this book has and when you thought you knew what was goinf to happen it turns to another way highly recommend
January 10, 2026
A dark mafia romance where the plot twists were jaw dropping. The spice was 🥵. This was an easy read & I didn’t want to put the book down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is not a book for the feint hearted, it is deeply disturbing with unspeakable depravity but it also has deep passion, unconditional love and mandatory loyalty.
Collins O'Brian is the middle daughter of a merciless mafia boss, she was thrust into medical school so that she could be the clans medic, she was trained by her brutal father from a young age, training that will leave deep lasting scars, scars that no one could see.
Hayes Monticello was the best friend of Maeve O'Brian, Maeve was the oldest of the sisters and the feared leader of the O'Brian mafia family, she and Hayes shared deep seated, painful, soul destroying secrets that drew them together.
Hayes had been Collins bodyguard from an early age, they had a close love/hate relationship, but he was the only person who made Collins feel safe, the only person that she could rely on.
When Roman Capo, the brutal, ruthless leader of the Capo mafia family, a family who were the hated enemies of the O'Brian's, demanded Collins hand in marriage in order to form an alliance, Collins was horrified, she knew that her sister would put the clan before her safely so she formed a plan, a plan to have a fake engagement with Hayes, the only person who Maeve would think twice about hurting.
This is the story of Collins and Hayes as they gradually discover a deep, torrid love but it is anything but a straightforward journey, the characters are so complex and unemotional, their hatred and fears run deep, throw in Killian Linwood, Maeve's ruthless right hand man, a man who has a distrust, jealous resentment of Maeve and Hayes friendship and would do anything to sever it, a man who knows Hayes deepest secret, and you have a story that will have you reading into the night, a story that will stay with you.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
Collins O'Brian is the middle daughter of a merciless mafia boss, she was thrust into medical school so that she could be the clans medic, she was trained by her brutal father from a young age, training that will leave deep lasting scars, scars that no one could see.
Hayes Monticello was the best friend of Maeve O'Brian, Maeve was the oldest of the sisters and the feared leader of the O'Brian mafia family, she and Hayes shared deep seated, painful, soul destroying secrets that drew them together.
Hayes had been Collins bodyguard from an early age, they had a close love/hate relationship, but he was the only person who made Collins feel safe, the only person that she could rely on.
When Roman Capo, the brutal, ruthless leader of the Capo mafia family, a family who were the hated enemies of the O'Brian's, demanded Collins hand in marriage in order to form an alliance, Collins was horrified, she knew that her sister would put the clan before her safely so she formed a plan, a plan to have a fake engagement with Hayes, the only person who Maeve would think twice about hurting.
This is the story of Collins and Hayes as they gradually discover a deep, torrid love but it is anything but a straightforward journey, the characters are so complex and unemotional, their hatred and fears run deep, throw in Killian Linwood, Maeve's ruthless right hand man, a man who has a distrust, jealous resentment of Maeve and Hayes friendship and would do anything to sever it, a man who knows Hayes deepest secret, and you have a story that will have you reading into the night, a story that will stay with you.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
Review of advance copy
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dark, depraved and downright delicious! The Mafia’s Daughter is a fast-paced dark romance that had me completely hooked.
The story follows Collins O’Brien, the dutiful favourite child of deceased mob boss, Ferguson O’Brien. At the start of the book, even though her sister is now leading the clan, Collins is still trying to remain the obedient daughter. She stays under the radar and works hard to complete medical school, just like her father had wanted her to. However, when faced with the prospect of being married off to the notorious leader of a rival family, Collins decides that enough is enough. In a moment of desperation, she claims that she’s already engaged…to her sister’s best friend and right-hand man, Hayes Monticello.
I found Collins to be a really compelling FMC. She presents herself to the world as being calm and composed, but underneath it all she feels suffocated by the expectations that have been placed upon her. Scarred from a traumatic childhood, there’s a darkness in Collins that she struggles to come to terms with. That is, until Hayes shows her how to embrace the depravity.
Hayes Monticello is a man who knows what he wants. And what he wants is Collins! I really enjoyed the dynamic between these two. Their banter and chemistry was brilliant, resulting in some delicious spice!
The Mafia’s Daughter is book two in a series of interconnected stand-alones and is perfect for readers who love dark romance filled with unhinged, dangerous characters.
⚠️ Make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading.
Thank you so much to E. D. Crowe and Grey’s Promotions for my ARC.
Tropes:
💙 Fake engagement
🐍 Intelligent, emotionally scarred FMC
💙 Protective & possessive MMC
🐍 Older sibling’s best friend
💙 Forced proximity
🐍 Dual POV
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dark, depraved and downright delicious! The Mafia’s Daughter is a fast-paced dark romance that had me completely hooked.
The story follows Collins O’Brien, the dutiful favourite child of deceased mob boss, Ferguson O’Brien. At the start of the book, even though her sister is now leading the clan, Collins is still trying to remain the obedient daughter. She stays under the radar and works hard to complete medical school, just like her father had wanted her to. However, when faced with the prospect of being married off to the notorious leader of a rival family, Collins decides that enough is enough. In a moment of desperation, she claims that she’s already engaged…to her sister’s best friend and right-hand man, Hayes Monticello.
I found Collins to be a really compelling FMC. She presents herself to the world as being calm and composed, but underneath it all she feels suffocated by the expectations that have been placed upon her. Scarred from a traumatic childhood, there’s a darkness in Collins that she struggles to come to terms with. That is, until Hayes shows her how to embrace the depravity.
Hayes Monticello is a man who knows what he wants. And what he wants is Collins! I really enjoyed the dynamic between these two. Their banter and chemistry was brilliant, resulting in some delicious spice!
The Mafia’s Daughter is book two in a series of interconnected stand-alones and is perfect for readers who love dark romance filled with unhinged, dangerous characters.
⚠️ Make sure to check the trigger warnings before reading.
Thank you so much to E. D. Crowe and Grey’s Promotions for my ARC.
Tropes:
💙 Fake engagement
🐍 Intelligent, emotionally scarred FMC
💙 Protective & possessive MMC
🐍 Older sibling’s best friend
💙 Forced proximity
🐍 Dual POV
Review of advance copy
This was an interesting story that I really enjoyed reading! I felt like it was a bit too long in places and occasionally got lost in too much spice. I felt like there were elements of the story that needed more development but instead the characters just had to have each other immediately, say for example, in a hospital closet. I guess that's not uncommon in contemporary romance novels but I just felt like it was overdone here between two characters who had a relatively new romantic relationship. But like I said, the storyline was interesting and I was definitely pulled in and wanted to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next.
As for character development, there was a "nemesis" you could definitely get behind hating in this one! With the main characters, however, early in the book I didn't love them and I think that was because they were just not as thoroughly developed as I would have liked in a book this long, but by the end of the book I found the characters more compelling. I should add that this book is part of a series and I didn't read the first book so I suspect reading that would have given more context to the story and made the characters feel more well-rounded.
Overall this is an enjoyable read that you will like if you are into "Mafia-light" books. It's meant to be dark romance but I found it pretty mild as far as dark reads go. So if that is your genre then you will be highly satisfied with this story. Hats off to the author for writing an excellent book in this niche!
Note that I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
As for character development, there was a "nemesis" you could definitely get behind hating in this one! With the main characters, however, early in the book I didn't love them and I think that was because they were just not as thoroughly developed as I would have liked in a book this long, but by the end of the book I found the characters more compelling. I should add that this book is part of a series and I didn't read the first book so I suspect reading that would have given more context to the story and made the characters feel more well-rounded.
Overall this is an enjoyable read that you will like if you are into "Mafia-light" books. It's meant to be dark romance but I found it pretty mild as far as dark reads go. So if that is your genre then you will be highly satisfied with this story. Hats off to the author for writing an excellent book in this niche!
Note that I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
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