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Sapphires and Snakes
"If we're destroying each other, I won't be the only one gouged to pieces."
The awaited conclusion of Tamayo and Zarina’s story is finally here! The second book in the Cardinal Families Series pushes each of them to the brink of choice—between power and ego, between safety and desire. The map of Louredo is changing and whoever doesn’t grab a seat, gets left behind.
Grab your copy and claim your seat at the table.
ZARINA GALLO
I trusted my parents. Then they tried to sell me off to pay their debts. Now, I’m trusting Andrea Tamayo. She promised she’d protect me, made me kneel and sign my name in blood for the privilege. But when Marcus Accardi makes his move, she can’t save me. No one can.
Except me.
I refuse to be a helpless damsel in Italian leather heels. I’ll do whatever it takes to escape Marcus’s brutal hands, even if it means betraying the one ally I have left. It’s me or Tamayo, and I have more to lose.
ANDREA TAMAYO
Everything I’ve worked so hard to grasp is within my reach if I just take it. For a decade, I’ve sought revenge on the Gallo Family. They left me for dead, wrecked my body, my faith, and now they’re about to lose everything they took from me.
If I can stand to ruin my fake fiancée, Zarina Gallo.
With the prize so close, I can’t stop now. I can’t allow her to soften me. Not even if it means betraying her to achieve all I’ve ever worked toward. It’s me or Zarina, and I have more to gain.
The Cardinal Families Series is meant for adult readers. Find a full list of content warnings at lexiealynnbooks-dot-com .
The awaited conclusion of Tamayo and Zarina’s story is finally here! The second book in the Cardinal Families Series pushes each of them to the brink of choice—between power and ego, between safety and desire. The map of Louredo is changing and whoever doesn’t grab a seat, gets left behind.
Grab your copy and claim your seat at the table.
ZARINA GALLO
I trusted my parents. Then they tried to sell me off to pay their debts. Now, I’m trusting Andrea Tamayo. She promised she’d protect me, made me kneel and sign my name in blood for the privilege. But when Marcus Accardi makes his move, she can’t save me. No one can.
Except me.
I refuse to be a helpless damsel in Italian leather heels. I’ll do whatever it takes to escape Marcus’s brutal hands, even if it means betraying the one ally I have left. It’s me or Tamayo, and I have more to lose.
ANDREA TAMAYO
Everything I’ve worked so hard to grasp is within my reach if I just take it. For a decade, I’ve sought revenge on the Gallo Family. They left me for dead, wrecked my body, my faith, and now they’re about to lose everything they took from me.
If I can stand to ruin my fake fiancée, Zarina Gallo.
With the prize so close, I can’t stop now. I can’t allow her to soften me. Not even if it means betraying her to achieve all I’ve ever worked toward. It’s me or Zarina, and I have more to gain.
The Cardinal Families Series is meant for adult readers. Find a full list of content warnings at lexiealynnbooks-dot-com .
- GenresRomanceButch Femme
276 pages, Hardcover
Published November 6, 2025
15 people are currently reading
2559 people want to read
About the author
Lexie A. Lynn
3 books23 followersLexie A. Lynn grew up in Iowa and traded those cornfields for the historical cobblestones of Europe, for the colorful temples of South Korea, for the moody pines of the Pacific Northwest, where she currently resides. Now, she thrives in queer community and attends as many BTS concerts as she can afford. And no matter how many roots she puts down, she’ll never stop chasing new adventures in foreign countries.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 12, 2025
5 - ⭐️ well book 2 has solidified this as the best mafia romance series I’ve ever read. The ladies are smart. The action is tense. The femme lead isn’t a damsel in distress. The story is interesting. I am completely invested in their relationship. I love the ending and I’m giddy for book 3.
November 5, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of
Sapphires and Snakes!
As always, all opinions are my own and this review is being left voluntarily.
✨ Adult Sapphic Mafia Romance
✨ First Person, Dual POV
✨ 3.5/5 Spice Level
✨ Book 2 in a Series
✨ Rep: Filipino MC, lesbian MC, nonbinary SC, trans SC, gay SC
I recommend if you enjoy…
- the first book in the series
- mafia romance
- touch her and die
- only a sub for her
- femme x masc
- fake engagement
- rivals to lovers
- found family
Content warnings after review.
General thoughts…
Easily one of my most anticipated sequels of 2025! I read the first book, Rubies and Revenge, earlier this year, and I was obsessed. Mafia romance has been historically a bit hard for me to get into for a few different reasons… that was not the case with Rubies and Revenge. I was hooked from the start and stayed hooked because of the insane chemistry between Tamayo and Zarina. With the last book leaving off on a cliffhanger, I was desperate to get my hands on Sapphires and Snakes. Happy to report I was not disappointed. It picked up right where the previous book left off giving an action-packed start. All the elements I loved from the first book continued through the second book. I was thrilled to be back with Tamayo and Zarina and find out what happens next.
Some things I loved…
- Tamayo! She’s 100% book girlfriend material. I’m obsessed with her. She’s really giving ruthless gangster with a heart of gold underneath. I loved getting to know her better and seeing more sides of her. I appreciate the complexity of her character.
- While Tamayo is my favorite, Zarina is a great character as well! I love that she isn’t some damsel in distress. She’s intelligent and complex in her own right. Both Tamayo and Zarina are always thinking (and plotting?). They both are two steps ahead of where they seem.
- Found family. There are so many side characters to love. Tamayo has so many marginalized people she goes to bat for (emphasis on the gangster with a heart of gold trope), but Pat and Zarina’s relationship is so genuine. I loved getting their scenes together.
- The pacing is great. Between the spice, the action, and the feels, it’s hard to stop turning pages to go to bed…
Some things to consider…
- This is the second book in the series. It cannot be read without reading the first book.
- The series isn’t complete, but this book ended with a satisfying ending imo. So waiting for the next shouldn’t be too much of a hardship (unlike after the first book).
Final thoughts…
If someone were to ask me for a sapphic mafia romance recommendation, this would be the series I’d recommend. I’m not a huge re-reader, but I just might have to re-read them before the next book comes out……. Highly recommend, and I’m excited to see what Lexie comes out with in the future. I know I’ll be scrambling to get my hands on whatever it is.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
kidnapping/attempted kidnapping, mafia/gang violence, de*th/m*rder, weapons, sexism, ethnocentrism, marijuana, misgendering, deadnaming
✨ Adult Sapphic Mafia Romance
✨ First Person, Dual POV
✨ 3.5/5 Spice Level
✨ Book 2 in a Series
✨ Rep: Filipino MC, lesbian MC, nonbinary SC, trans SC, gay SC
I recommend if you enjoy…
- the first book in the series
- mafia romance
- touch her and die
- only a sub for her
- femme x masc
- fake engagement
- rivals to lovers
- found family
Content warnings after review.
General thoughts…
Easily one of my most anticipated sequels of 2025! I read the first book, Rubies and Revenge, earlier this year, and I was obsessed. Mafia romance has been historically a bit hard for me to get into for a few different reasons… that was not the case with Rubies and Revenge. I was hooked from the start and stayed hooked because of the insane chemistry between Tamayo and Zarina. With the last book leaving off on a cliffhanger, I was desperate to get my hands on Sapphires and Snakes. Happy to report I was not disappointed. It picked up right where the previous book left off giving an action-packed start. All the elements I loved from the first book continued through the second book. I was thrilled to be back with Tamayo and Zarina and find out what happens next.
Some things I loved…
- Tamayo! She’s 100% book girlfriend material. I’m obsessed with her. She’s really giving ruthless gangster with a heart of gold underneath. I loved getting to know her better and seeing more sides of her. I appreciate the complexity of her character.
- While Tamayo is my favorite, Zarina is a great character as well! I love that she isn’t some damsel in distress. She’s intelligent and complex in her own right. Both Tamayo and Zarina are always thinking (and plotting?). They both are two steps ahead of where they seem.
- Found family. There are so many side characters to love. Tamayo has so many marginalized people she goes to bat for (emphasis on the gangster with a heart of gold trope), but Pat and Zarina’s relationship is so genuine. I loved getting their scenes together.
- The pacing is great. Between the spice, the action, and the feels, it’s hard to stop turning pages to go to bed…
Some things to consider…
- This is the second book in the series. It cannot be read without reading the first book.
- The series isn’t complete, but this book ended with a satisfying ending imo. So waiting for the next shouldn’t be too much of a hardship (unlike after the first book).
Final thoughts…
If someone were to ask me for a sapphic mafia romance recommendation, this would be the series I’d recommend. I’m not a huge re-reader, but I just might have to re-read them before the next book comes out……. Highly recommend, and I’m excited to see what Lexie comes out with in the future. I know I’ll be scrambling to get my hands on whatever it is.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
kidnapping/attempted kidnapping, mafia/gang violence, de*th/m*rder, weapons, sexism, ethnocentrism, marijuana, misgendering, deadnaming
December 22, 2025
honestly, what the fuck? this was nothing short of amazing. i stayed up way past EXHAUSTED to finish this. indeed in my top 3 mafia romances EVER. i'm so excited for book 3. what am i going to do with myself until august of 2026? 😩
October 9, 2025
First off I would like to thank Lexie A. Lynn and That Bookish Coven for sending me this advanced copy. To say I devoured it would be putting it mildly. I finished the first book and could not wait to dive into the second.
In "Sapphires and Snakes"," the story picks up right where the previous book left off, plunging readers into the criminal underworld of Zarina Gallo, a mafia princess navigating family conflict with no information to guide her. Andrea Tamayo, a captivating woman who is Zarina's solution but with that brings its own set of complications.
Together, these two women must grapple with a central dilemma: is revenge worth pursuing at the cost of love? The highlight of the book is its portrayal of strong female leads. Zarina's strength lies in her fierce independence and determination to create her own agency, who evolves into her own savior. Andrea, on the other hand, wields a different kind of power, forged in the circumstances that has made her a commanding leader. Their different strengths create chemistry that drives the story forward.
While this book captivates with its intense character-driven plot, it leaves one yearning for a peek into the future of Zarina and Andrea's relationship. A glimpse into how their personal and professional bonds evolve would have added a satisfying layer to an already enthralling tale. Nevertheless, this book is the perfect read for those who love their female leads strong, high-stakes drama high, and lots of sexual tension.
In "Sapphires and Snakes"," the story picks up right where the previous book left off, plunging readers into the criminal underworld of Zarina Gallo, a mafia princess navigating family conflict with no information to guide her. Andrea Tamayo, a captivating woman who is Zarina's solution but with that brings its own set of complications.
Together, these two women must grapple with a central dilemma: is revenge worth pursuing at the cost of love? The highlight of the book is its portrayal of strong female leads. Zarina's strength lies in her fierce independence and determination to create her own agency, who evolves into her own savior. Andrea, on the other hand, wields a different kind of power, forged in the circumstances that has made her a commanding leader. Their different strengths create chemistry that drives the story forward.
While this book captivates with its intense character-driven plot, it leaves one yearning for a peek into the future of Zarina and Andrea's relationship. A glimpse into how their personal and professional bonds evolve would have added a satisfying layer to an already enthralling tale. Nevertheless, this book is the perfect read for those who love their female leads strong, high-stakes drama high, and lots of sexual tension.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐/🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
First of all Thank you for this ARC. I enjoyed this book even more than the first one!
If you like strong female leads, danger, scheming, betrayal, lies and sexual tension, than this book is for you. I definitely was rooting for Zarina and Tamayo. Their relationship evolved from enemies to something more and definitely complicated and that had me on the edge of my seat. The sexual tension was palpable and the scenes that followed were exquisite.
I really liked the emotional growth and depth and the way the story unfolds. Its pace is exactly right and the ending is what you would hope for.
Definitely a recommend!
First of all Thank you for this ARC. I enjoyed this book even more than the first one!
If you like strong female leads, danger, scheming, betrayal, lies and sexual tension, than this book is for you. I definitely was rooting for Zarina and Tamayo. Their relationship evolved from enemies to something more and definitely complicated and that had me on the edge of my seat. The sexual tension was palpable and the scenes that followed were exquisite.
I really liked the emotional growth and depth and the way the story unfolds. Its pace is exactly right and the ending is what you would hope for.
Definitely a recommend!
November 7, 2025
After finishing Book one I needed to get my hands on this asap and I went through it in a day. I loved Rubies and Revenge and I found Sapphires and Snakes to be even better, I was hooked on the tension the moment I started it (picking up from Book 1's cliffhanger ending) and couldnt put it down.
The end made me happy *feet kicks* but while the plotline that began in Book 1 is finished the story feels far from done and I hope to see more in this series, maybe with some of the side characters (Pat and Angie please) but even Zarina and Tamayo's story feels like there is still more to be told.
The end made me happy *feet kicks* but while the plotline that began in Book 1 is finished the story feels far from done and I hope to see more in this series, maybe with some of the side characters (Pat and Angie please) but even Zarina and Tamayo's story feels like there is still more to be told.
November 11, 2025
I don't think I was as nearly drawn into the first half of this book as I was book one. The pacing felt a little off, and certain time skips just didn't feel right and made things feel choppy. I was hoping there would be more romantic development as well.
Despite my feelings of the first half though, they were all resolved by the second half. After around the 50% mark I was hooked. I loved the character development we got. I loved seeing Zarina being an absolute badass and I feel like the story was wrapped up in a very satisfying way. If you love mafia romance, and sapphic stories you will love this duology.
Despite my feelings of the first half though, they were all resolved by the second half. After around the 50% mark I was hooked. I loved the character development we got. I loved seeing Zarina being an absolute badass and I feel like the story was wrapped up in a very satisfying way. If you love mafia romance, and sapphic stories you will love this duology.
November 16, 2025
3.25/5
Like the first book in the series, this book is a fast read and not particularly good. I found myself not caring about what would happen to the main characters because I didn't feel connected to them at all. Maybe I'm just not the right audience.
I think the author is trying to hard to make us believe the plot is more high-stake than it is. The characters are very diverse to the point I think the author is just trying to check off boxes. It also feels quite preachy. I know those are important issues to address but again they feel too heavy-handed. All in all, this book is quite forgettable.
Like the first book in the series, this book is a fast read and not particularly good. I found myself not caring about what would happen to the main characters because I didn't feel connected to them at all. Maybe I'm just not the right audience.
I think the author is trying to hard to make us believe the plot is more high-stake than it is. The characters are very diverse to the point I think the author is just trying to check off boxes. It also feels quite preachy. I know those are important issues to address but again they feel too heavy-handed. All in all, this book is quite forgettable.
September 23, 2025
ARC Review of Sapphires and Snakes by Lexie Lynn
After finishing Rubies and Revenge, I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next, and Sapphires and Snakes didn’t let me down. The sequel takes everything I loved about the first book—the danger, betrayal, the furnace 🔥 between Zarina and Tamayo —and raises the stakes even higher.
Zarina is forced to confront the consequences of her family’s world and lies while Tamayo continues to wrestle with her need for revenge. Their relationship, which started as a calculated move, has surpassed to “things are complicated”. Complicated is an understatement. I loved watching their walls break down, and the intensity of their attraction was insanely hot!
Lexie Lynn keeps the story gripping from start to finish. The action and twists had me on edge, but what I enjoyed just as much were the quieter moments that showed the depth of the characters. That balance of chaos and intimacy made the book impossible to put down.
If Rubies and Revenge pulled me into Louredo, Sapphires and Snakes made me want to stay there—even if it’s dangerous. It’s sharper, darker, and more addictive than the first, and it’s left me hopeful for a third trip down south. Is it wrong if I want to be called princess now?!
After finishing Rubies and Revenge, I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next, and Sapphires and Snakes didn’t let me down. The sequel takes everything I loved about the first book—the danger, betrayal, the furnace 🔥 between Zarina and Tamayo —and raises the stakes even higher.
Zarina is forced to confront the consequences of her family’s world and lies while Tamayo continues to wrestle with her need for revenge. Their relationship, which started as a calculated move, has surpassed to “things are complicated”. Complicated is an understatement. I loved watching their walls break down, and the intensity of their attraction was insanely hot!
Lexie Lynn keeps the story gripping from start to finish. The action and twists had me on edge, but what I enjoyed just as much were the quieter moments that showed the depth of the characters. That balance of chaos and intimacy made the book impossible to put down.
If Rubies and Revenge pulled me into Louredo, Sapphires and Snakes made me want to stay there—even if it’s dangerous. It’s sharper, darker, and more addictive than the first, and it’s left me hopeful for a third trip down south. Is it wrong if I want to be called princess now?!
November 4, 2025
The follow-up to Tamayo and Zarina’s story absolutely delivered! I’ve been waiting for this continuation, and wow—Lexie A. Lynn did not hold back. 💅🏼
We’ve got LGBTQ+ rep that shines, mafia politics dripping with tension, and enough secrets to fill a vault. The emotional stakes are high, the chemistry is electric, and every page feels like a power play wrapped in passion and danger.
The world of Louredo is expanding, and I was so here for the family drama, the twists, and the morally gray choices. If you love your romance fierce, fierce, and a little bit feral—this one’s for you.
We’ve got LGBTQ+ rep that shines, mafia politics dripping with tension, and enough secrets to fill a vault. The emotional stakes are high, the chemistry is electric, and every page feels like a power play wrapped in passion and danger.
The world of Louredo is expanding, and I was so here for the family drama, the twists, and the morally gray choices. If you love your romance fierce, fierce, and a little bit feral—this one’s for you.
October 20, 2025
I absolutely devoured this book!
I love that Zarina was a bit softer and squishier with Tamayo in this one while still being the spit fire, boss lady she is. This book had me kicking my feet and giggling but also biting my nails and sitting on the edge of my seat. It had it all and I am obsessed with Tamayo and Zarina, I could read a dozen more books about them.
I love that Zarina was a bit softer and squishier with Tamayo in this one while still being the spit fire, boss lady she is. This book had me kicking my feet and giggling but also biting my nails and sitting on the edge of my seat. It had it all and I am obsessed with Tamayo and Zarina, I could read a dozen more books about them.
November 7, 2025
So good!
I loved the first book in this series, and somehow this one was even better. There isn't a ton of downtime, it grabs you and keeps you on the edge the whole time. I don't think there could have been a better ending.
I loved the first book in this series, and somehow this one was even better. There isn't a ton of downtime, it grabs you and keeps you on the edge the whole time. I don't think there could have been a better ending.
November 11, 2025
Great Book 2
Zarina and Tamayo take on everyone! Lots of action and spice and a princess who saves herself! Tie that in with a love story and some rotten mafia dons and you have a story you should read! Can’t wait for the next book!
Zarina and Tamayo take on everyone! Lots of action and spice and a princess who saves herself! Tie that in with a love story and some rotten mafia dons and you have a story you should read! Can’t wait for the next book!
December 16, 2025
Yes! We got book 2! I loved how Zarina figured out what people were hiding from her. This was such an awesome enemies to lovers story. Andrea did an awesome job of stepping up and showing Zarina that she cares and that her actions are true. I’m so excited that Zarina figured out how to help herself out of an awful predicament and that turned out to be the best thing to happen.
November 13, 2025
Okay not as good as the first book but still an A+
December 23, 2025
By far, a superior sequel! Full of action and romance, and heartbreak. Lynn does an amazing job of keeping this book unpredictable, you never know where it's going.
October 16, 2025
STARS 5 stars
SPICE hot
CHEMISTRY excellent
ANGST high
SLOW BURN no
CLIFFHANGER no
CHARACTERS Tamayo and Zarina
FAVORITE QUOTE/QUOTES
I want to cradle her between my arms and make her feel safe from anyone laying a harmful hand on her ever again. ___ I want her.
And the words still echo in my ears as I follow after her. I make you feel safe.
A LITTLE ABOUT THE BOOK & I IT MADE ME FEEL
I was so lucky to get my hands on this book early! Normally I’m a patient reader, but the cliffhanger at the end of Rubies and Revenge left me absolutely breathless. I honestly didn’t know how I’d make it to November without finding out what happened to Zarina and Tamayo. I couldn't stop thinking about their fate.
Lexie A. Lynn knows how to pull readers in. Every clue, every detail, fits together into a suspenseful romance that I devoured.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THE CHARACTERS
Zarina and Tamayo stole my heart. On the outside they were guarded, but inside they had already given everything to each other. Watching them fall in love was sweet and powerful.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THE BOOK
The best part of this series is Lexie herself. Her writing is captivating, emotional, and unforgettable. I cannot wait to see what she gives us next.
MY FAVORITE PART
What I loved most was the way everything came together in the end. I won’t spoil anything, but just know it ends with a bang. When the secrets finally come out and the characters get a glimpse of who was really pulling the strings, the angst is absolutely gut wrenching. I love when a romance can make me feel that deeply, and this one did exactly that.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE
I LOVED EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS BOOK
TROPES
Mafia, forced marriage, sapphic
SPICE hot
CHEMISTRY excellent
ANGST high
SLOW BURN no
CLIFFHANGER no
CHARACTERS Tamayo and Zarina
FAVORITE QUOTE/QUOTES
I want to cradle her between my arms and make her feel safe from anyone laying a harmful hand on her ever again. ___ I want her.
And the words still echo in my ears as I follow after her. I make you feel safe.
A LITTLE ABOUT THE BOOK & I IT MADE ME FEEL
I was so lucky to get my hands on this book early! Normally I’m a patient reader, but the cliffhanger at the end of Rubies and Revenge left me absolutely breathless. I honestly didn’t know how I’d make it to November without finding out what happened to Zarina and Tamayo. I couldn't stop thinking about their fate.
Lexie A. Lynn knows how to pull readers in. Every clue, every detail, fits together into a suspenseful romance that I devoured.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THE CHARACTERS
Zarina and Tamayo stole my heart. On the outside they were guarded, but inside they had already given everything to each other. Watching them fall in love was sweet and powerful.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THE BOOK
The best part of this series is Lexie herself. Her writing is captivating, emotional, and unforgettable. I cannot wait to see what she gives us next.
MY FAVORITE PART
What I loved most was the way everything came together in the end. I won’t spoil anything, but just know it ends with a bang. When the secrets finally come out and the characters get a glimpse of who was really pulling the strings, the angst is absolutely gut wrenching. I love when a romance can make me feel that deeply, and this one did exactly that.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE
I LOVED EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS BOOK
TROPES
Mafia, forced marriage, sapphic
November 6, 2025
I absolutely devoured this book!
I love that Zarina was a bit softer and squishier with Tamayo in this one while still being the spit fire, boss lady she is. This book had me kicking my feet and giggling but also biting my nails and sitting on the edge of my seat. It had it all and I am obsessed with Tamayo and Zarina, I could read a dozen more books about them.
I love that Zarina was a bit softer and squishier with Tamayo in this one while still being the spit fire, boss lady she is. This book had me kicking my feet and giggling but also biting my nails and sitting on the edge of my seat. It had it all and I am obsessed with Tamayo and Zarina, I could read a dozen more books about them.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews