The star quarterback and the elusive mob princess are written in the stars…
Hunter Saint Warren set eyes on Gabriela Regina Bellafiore four hundred and seventeen days ago. Ever since then, he’s been hooked.
The football player can’t stop thinking about the red-haired beauty with blue eyes and playful banter. She’s an extroverted party girl and he’s an introvert who prefers standing in the corner of a crowded room. They couldn’t be more opposite.
But sparks fly after an encounter on a moonlit night and a hot revenge kiss on the dance floor. Their chemistry or attraction can’t be denied. Coupled with the fact that they’re now neighbors and share the same class, it’s getting harder for them to resist each other.
A threat to Gabriela’s safety pushes them even closer together. But Gabriela doesn’t do romantic relationships. Only short flings. Her past shaped her into the person she is today. Yet Hunter is unknowingly breaking down all her walls and rules, determined to show her he can be the one she needs. And deep down, Gabriela knows that nobody else will ever treat her the way Hunter does. Like a goddess and the very center of his world. All she needs to do is take a chance on the man who’s slowly turning into her everything.
My Treasured Obsession is the first book in the My Everything Forever interconnected standalone series. It's a new adult university sports romance with mafia elements, strong language, romantic and steamy moments. Reader discretion is advised.
This book was so much fun to read. The main characters in this book have sort of opposite personalities but they complement each other so well resulting in a beautiful dynamic between them. I loved seeing so many familiar characters in this book it just added so much more to my anticipation for future Marzy Opal books. One thing I also absolutely loved is all the different backgrounds in cultures/ethnicities of the characters in this book!
My Treasured Obsession follows Gabriela, a mob princess who avoids serious relationships, and Hunter, a popular quarterback who has liked her for a long time. Their story starts as a real friendship and slowly turns into love, which feels natural and easy to believe. The conversations are fun, and the connection between them feels genuine. Hunter’s devotion is sweet and caring, showing love in a respectful and reassuring way.
At first, the romance felt a little too fast, and the instant attraction was VERY appealing in the beginning. The early part of the story was hard to fully enjoy, but as the book went on, the characters grew and the relationship became more meaningful. Those later moments changed the overall impression, and finishing the book felt worth it!
The side characters add a lot to the story. The friendships feel supportive and real, and Gabriela’s family brings humor and warmth. Small details, like Luna, make the story even more charming. The way praise and emotional support are shown in the relationship makes the romance feel close and meaningful. While the book could have gone deeper in some parts, it is still a very enjoyable and satisfying read!
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️ Tropes: forced proximity, opposites attract, he falls first and harder, found family, romantic suspense
Marzy Opal is back with the much awaited first book in the My Everything Forever Series, My Treasured Obsession. What’s a guy to do when he sees the girl of his dreams illuminated by the moonlight? Offer to dance with her to make her ex jealous of course.
Like a fallen angel exiled from the heavens, now roaming the Earth and tormenting every man and woman with her seductive aura. Every delineation on her person had been crafted to sheer magnificence, as though she were amongst the crème de la crème.
For Hunter Saint Warren it’s love at first sight but his new neighbor, Gabriela Regina Bellafiore, has been burned one too many times by love. When Gabby and Hunter kiss on the dance floor, she wants to keep things platonic afterwards while fighting her attraction to him...but that's proven hard to do when he turns out to be her new neighbor. When someone breaks in to Gabby’s apartment the reliable Hunter offers to help keep Gabby safe. As Gabby and Hunter start to spend more time together they begin to realize that love can find you when you least expect it.
Hunter was a masterpiece. Never in my life had I come across a man of this calibre, his physicality only a shard composing his overall magnificence. Though I’d only been acquainted with small parts of it, I knew it was his heart that made him all the more beautiful to me.
Hunter is a character with many layers. He’s a shy footballer with a dirty mouth. He knows what he wants, to be with Gabriela, and he’ll do whatever it takes to get a real chance with her. Hunter may be a bit introverted but he really comes out of his shell when getting to know his girl. Hunter really is such a sweet book boyfriend. He takes care of both Gabby and her cat, Luna. Any guy who is also great with animals is the ultimate swoon. He even teaches her to drive!
He was beginning to feel like my forever. And the energy inside of me bordered on unhinged. I wanted to mark him as mine in a way that was visible to the entire world. So every onlooker knew to keep their interest to themselves.
There’s more to Gabby than what meets the eye. Gabby is a more extroverted character but I think her and Hunter complement each other well. Gabby has a heart of gold and is more than just a party girl. Gabby hasn’t had the best experience when it comes to guys so when Hunter is ready to put it all on the line for her she doesn’t know what to make of it yet. Gabby is no damsel in distress but I really appreciate the fact that she was willing to ask for help and be smart when her life was in danger.
”You want to know why, doll?”Kiss. ”It’s because I worship you like a religion.”Kiss.”You’re the sweetest victory I’ve ever known.”Kiss.”You’re my treasured obsession, Gabriela. One I’ll continue to show my devotion to until I die.
I love a book with forced proximity! When the characters try to avoid each other but the universe keeps throwing them together. After meeting at a party, Gabby and Hunter turn out to be neighbors and classmates. Gabby and Hunter’s friends wanted them to be together as much as I wanted them to be together. I love how Marzy Opal’s books not only focus on the romance but also make sure to emphasize the importance of friendships as well. I think that makes the characters seem more well rounded and I love getting to know the side characters.
This is a romance novel with a hint of suspense. The main love story really holds your attention but the suspense aspect keeps you on a hook. I didn’t guess who the stalker was so I was shocked with the final reveal. The love scenes are definitely high on the spiciness scale. I think the intimate scenes really add to the plot and help showcase how the romance between Gabby and Hunter flourishes. Overall, I think this was a great read and had me squealing and kicking my feet. The book ends with a HEA and there’s no cheating.
“I would do anything for you, Gabriela,” Hunter confessed, gazing into my eyes with so much love. “You’re my everything.” He kissed my lips. “Forever.”
this is my first marzy opal book but it will not be last. i really enjoyed the way she writes.
our fmc Gabriela is a mob princess and she avoids serious relationship.she had been hurt by man before. Hunter is our mmc. he is the quarterback of the football team. omg the man yearned alot in this book. he always like gabriella.
Even thou they started dating early in the book their relationship progressed slowly. hunter knows what he want from the relationship. I loved how sweet and caring he was toward Gabriela. she deserve the attention and love. I also liked the side characters. The pacing of the book was so good. i can't wait to read more of her books.
This book had my attention the entire way through. I’ve read this author before and I enjoyed the book I read (Corrupted by You) and I enjoyed this book as well! This book thought it was a fun time. It was fun and it was an easy read for me.
The thing I loved about this book was that the characters loved each other so deeply. Not just Hunter being whipped but so was Gabriela. They really loved each other and you can like feel it as you’re reading it. I love the side characters and I would love to read a book about them because they also add to the story.
“To me, you’re the embodiment of all the stars all the heaven I will ever know”
“My pretty rich boy. My tender principe. My sweet undoing”
This book had absolutely no business being 500+ pages long. That was such an immediate turnoff to me. I love Marzy but this was frustrating. It would have been much better at 300 pages.
He is the ultimate cinnamon roll but like he will also ice you like the cinnamon roll he is and yes I do mean make you a sticky mess. He has a slutty snake thigh tattoo, a pierced nipple, and is the most down bad man I think I’ve ever read.
He laid eyes on her a year ago and they haven’t left her since. She is his complete opposite. He is an introvert while she is a party girl extrovert. He’s been obsessed. She sees them as only friends but he is so down bad and absolutely desperate and determined to get out of the friend zone.
We have a meddlesome friend group. So meddlesome his best friend arranges for them to be next door neighbors.
There is some romantic suspense thrown in.
He spoiles the absolute fuck out of her.
I don’t want to give too much away but THANK YOU MARZY & LoveNotesPR for the ARC. & it was the COOLEST THING EVER to be mentioned in the acknowledgements 🥹🥹 ILY!!
I enjoyed falling in love with these two as they did with each other. Hunter was completely captivated by Gabriela from beginning to end and it was so enduring to read. The progression of the two was natural and captivating. Hunter has got it bad! I literally swooned reading this book. There were so many sweet moments between these two. Also, some very spicy times as well.
One thing Ms Marzy never fails at doing is the secondary characters she creates. From Josh’s funny antics to Gabriela’s parents and most importantly the girls friendship. I loved it all. It brings so much more to the story and leaves you with crumbs of the people you’re slowly falling for and wanting more from. I am so excited this will be a new series. I can’t wait for what’s next, I truly love the whole bunch!
And I can’t forget Ms Queen Luna!! She was the real star of this book!
“Hunter had unravelled me. Peeled back all my layers, glanced at my center, plucked the essence of my soul and shaped it in a way where he could tuck it in the space next to his own. All my walls were down, my defenses broken, and yet I’d never felt safer. Or adored, cherished, and worshipped like the very goddess he claimed I was.”
A mafia princess and a football quarterback. What a unique mix. But I loved the idea. In always looking for a more original feel to books and this one has it. I loved how outspoken Gabriella was. She was the “speak your mind and do your thing” kind of woman. And Hunter was a more quiet kind of guy but had a dirty mouth. lol I loved that about him. It was fun too seeing that he was a quarterback yet he was so shy and quiet. Not your average party kind of guy. A kiss at a dance to make an ex jealous sparked so much more in that moment. This book was a really good read. Gabriella had someone break into her place, and Hunter was right there to protect her and keep her safe. Oh and turns out they’re neighbors lol. A sweet and romantic book with some chaos in it. Great characters, each one written so well. I truly entire reading this. It has just the right amount of everything.
This book draaaagged for me. If you’re in the mood for 90% smut and 10% plot, congrats – you’ve found it. Sure, there’s a sprinkle of character development, but I never felt like I actually got to know anyone beyond the bedroom.
Gabriela is a mafia princess dealing with some vague threats, and her dad is convinced he’s caught the right guy… even though the dude admits to some things but not the actual threat made against her. Problem solved, everyone go back to normal. We slide right back into chapter after chapter of Hunter and Gabriela hooking up until – SURPRISE – the stalker pops back up. And I’m sorry, but you’re telling me a mafia king didn’t have eyes on his daughter? Didn’t notice she was being followed? I just don't see it.
There were a few funny moments sprinkled in, but nothing that made me eager to pick the book back up. I just don't see myself continuing the series as I wasn't particularly drawn to any of the side characters.
Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I loved this book! A great mafia princess romance book!! I loved the great relationships shown in this book from Gabriela/Anna/Layla to Hunter/Josh/Cade/Shaun/Sam. I loved Gabriela and Hunter’s story!!! I can’t wait to read book 2!!
thank you love notes pr and marzy opal for this arc. my treasured obsession was so good. i love a long book but make it a long romance with a mafia princess, longing and some suspense im seated. hunter has become my new favorite book boyfriend. hunter was so thoughtful, protective, a real lover and yearner. hunter was also nasty asf with a praise kink and i loved every second of it. before hunter told gabriela that he loved her and was in love with her he showed her with quiet love by being there for her, supporting her, reassuring her, daily words of affirmations, giving her what she wanted and needed without her having to ask, taking a horror class with her even though he was scared of horror movies, reading the books she loved and giving her annotated copies. gabriela ex made her think she was too needy and unworthy of love so even though she felt deep feelings for hunter she kept trying to convince herself and hunter that they’d only be just friends until she thought he was losing hunter for good, then she took that leap and trusted hunter with her heart and he showed her how a queen should be treated. gabriela didn’t play about hunter either she was just as protective and selfish over him as he was of her. her love confession after hunter got stabbed was so heartwarming because you could really see how in love they were with each other before fully voicing it. tom claiming he was in love with gabriela and that’s why he was stalking her and took her was crazy, he was absolutely crazy and delusional like how you end things with her and move on quickly but get mad at her for doing the same and then claim you love her like that’s insanity and i was happy to see him meet his end. i can’t wait to see everyone else love story
My Treasured Obsession is about the story of Gabriela, a mob princess, and Hunter, a star quarterback.
After a messy breakup, Gabriela is determined not to fall in love. She keeps her relationships short, lasting only a few weeks, because she doesn’t want anything long-term. Meanwhile, Hunter has been crushing on her for over a year, ever since the first time he saw her.
They started off as friends, and their friendship was truly lovely, Hunter was always there for Gabriela When they finally crossed into a relationship, it was everything and more. I loved their banter, their drives, the time they spent together, their adoration for each other, and Hunter’s obsession 🥹 Not in a dangerous way, but in the way every woman deserves to be loved and cherished.
I also loved that the author didn’t portray Hunter as someone who didn’t value education despite being a star athlete. He had dreams beyond football and took his academics seriously.
Their friends were another highlight, the support, advice, and love they shared were exactly what a friend group should be. I also loved Gabriela’s family, especially her parents. I might have enjoyed reading about them a little too much (just kidding). I honestly wish there was a book about her parents and their love story because their scenes had me laughing out loud. And of course, dear Luna. I almost made the decision to get a cat because of her. She was so adorable, the way she adored Hunt and loved her mama was incredibly sweet.
I also loved how praise played a role in their relationship, they knew exactly what the other needed and expressed it in a way that felt intimate and affirming.
Guys, I read the spiciest book of 2025 for me!! WOW, My Treasured Obsession by Marzy Opal is that girl.
When I saw this was a dark sports romance, I knew I was immediately going to love this because it combined two of my favorite sub-genres of romance genres. I will say the relationship between our FMC Gabriela and MMC Hunter was a bit of insta lust to insta love at the beginning, but I personally loved it because it worked in their dynamic. When we get introduced to Hunter in the beginning, we already know that when he first saw Gabriela a year earlier that he only had eyes for her, and when he got the chance to kiss her for the first time, he took it and ran with it. When Gabriela kissed Hunter for the first time, she felt the spark but wanted to keep this platonic, because she had been burned by love in the past and was afraid of it happening with Hunter. But we all know how that story goes, hahah. Because after that kiss, Hunter knew in that moment he would do whatever it took to make Gabriela his, and I LOVE THAT TROPE! As the book goes on, though, what I really loved was that even though their relationship started as insta lust, we got to see them both grow together and overcome hurdles and form a love that is just so meaningful, that it made their love even better.
Now, if you are a fan of found family, lovable side characters, forced proximity, romantic suspense, and heavy on the spice. You'll love this book by Marzy Opal! And totally need to add it to your TBR in 2026.
I loved the dynamic between the characters — the outgoing, confident girl paired with the shy, introverted man. Their relationship was sweet and gentle, yet full of passion. Hunter, the MMC, was something else. A true gentle giant who became obsessed with Gabby from the moment he saw her. He’s the walking definition of “touch her and you die,” no exaggeration.
Gabby, the FMC, was such a fierce force. I adored her confidence, even though I struggled with her a bit at the start — her own thoughts kept getting in the way, and she could be stubborn. But once she finally let herself fall? Oh. My. God. The spice, the chemistry, the soft moments… they had it all. And Luna, their cat? I swear, if I could jump into the book and steal her, I would.
The side characters also stole my heart. Her parents? I need their book yesterday. Sam and Anna, Shaun and Hera — I need all their stories immediately. The crumbs were chef’s kiss.
Overall, if you’re in the mood for a romance that blends sweetness, obsession, a touch of suspense, and an abundance of chemistry, this book absolutely delivers. Hunter’s protective tenderness, Gabby’s bold charm, and the lovable side cast make the whole story addictive and so easy to sink into.
If you love gentle giants, confident heroines, and a perfectly balanced dash of spice, My Treasured Obsession is a must-read.
An Absolute Page-Turner! Marty Opal has done it again! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 "My Treasured Obsession" is an addictive, tension-filled, new adult romance that I could not put down! If you love the opposites-attract trope, an obsessed hero who falls first, and a touch of thrilling suspense, this book is for you. What I loved: * 🏈 Hunter! Wow. This football quarterback is everything—an introvert alpha who treats his girl like a queen, but knows exactly how to talk dirty. His instant obsession with Gabriela (Darcy) had me absolutely swooning. * 👑 Gabriela (Darcy). Sassy, a self-proclaimed "mob princess," and a total force of nature. I loved watching her challenge her own rules for Hunter. Her character arc was fantastic. * 🔥 The Chemistry. The forced proximity and banter between Hunter and Darcy was electric from page one. Marty Opal perfectly balances the sweet moments with some serious spice. * 🕵️♀️ The Suspense. The mafia elements and underlying mystery kept me guessing and added an extra layer of depth to the romance. This book delivers on all its promises: sports romance, strong hero/heroine dynamic, and an intense, satisfying HEA. Marty Opal’s writing style is engaging and flows effortlessly. Highly recommend picking this up! Can't wait for whatever Marzy writes next. Happy reading! 💚
10/10 would recommend this book to friends and family.
tropes: forced proximity, he falls first, suspense, opposites attract, found family, mafia princess x football quarterback, outgoing x shy
After reading and being beyond obsessed with Corrupted By You, I was so excited to see Marzy Opal’s new book, My Treasured Obsession hit my inbox. As the first installment of the My Everything Forever series, it did not disappoint.
If you like a man obsessed, some mystery (as always), banter and tension, then this book is for you. The mafia princess x football quarterback was so fun to read. With Gabby’s fiery personality and Hunter’s loving side, the characters were easy to fall in love with. Making an ex jealous? I’m here for it.
Hunter will do whatever he has to, to get his girl and we.are.here.for.it.
You all know what I’m going to say. GIVE ME FORCED PROXIMITY AND I’LL BE HAPPY. **tryyyy to avoid eachother but you CANT** (maniacal laughter) me giggling and kicking my feet while reading that. try, try again you guys.
AND CAN I SAY HOW BADLY I WANT SHAUN AND HERA’S BOOK? Since we met them in CBY I need to know their STORY. The glimpses of them were everything.
“I would do anything for you, Gabriela,” Hunter confessed, gazing into my eyes with so much love. “You’re my everything.” He kissed my lips. “Forever.”
My Treasured Obsession by Marzy Opal is a new adult college sports romance with mafia elements, plenty of banter, and steamy moments between its leads. One of the strongest elements for me was the male main character. He is a very yearning and devoted character whose attraction to the heroine is constant and earnest, and I genuinely appreciated how invested he was in winning her over. The fast pacing also kept the pages turning, which I know many readers enjoy in new adult romance.
That said, the speed often came at the expense of emotional build up. While the story felt quick and energetic, it sometimes felt rushed, with events unfolding very rapidly and not enough grounding in character development. Because of this, the romance felt a bit superficial at times. The quick transitions between scenes did not leave much room for me to connect deeply with Gabriela’s journey, and although the tension was there, it lacked the depth I was hoping for.
Overall, My Treasured Obsession is not a bad book at all, and I can easily see why many readers will enjoy the vibes, chemistry, and fast pace. It just was not my type of story. For me, it earns 2 stars, with some strong moments and a great MMC, but pacing and emotional connection kept it from being a memorable read.
"I remember everything about you like it's my goddamn career, Gabby."
Oh God—Hunter is perfection. I cannot shut up about all the things he did for Gabby to make her the happiest girl in the world.
They say it’s important for a man to consider how his actions affect his partner—that’s what real care looks like. And Hunter? He absolutely understood the assignment. This man is a walking, talking green flag—ugh! I just want to wrap him around myself 🥹
This book is literally a guide on “How to Treat Your Girl Right”, and I thank Marzy Opal for giving us Hunter.
To be someone’s obsession the way Gabby was Hunter’s? A dream come true for girls everywhere. No misunderstandings, clean and clear communication, endless compliments, and supporting the hell out of each other. And no, I’m definitely not forgetting how much of a badass Gabriela is. I adore her style, her confidence, and her “don’t mess with my loved ones” attitude—chef’s kiss 💋
Luna is the cherry on top. A pet like her can never go wrong, period. And Gabby’s girlfriends? Phenomenal. Once again, I’m here stressing over healthy female friendships.
Last—but definitely not least—Gabby’s parents 😉 Honestly, I was more invested in their romance. Guilty. 💖
Woooooooowie, these two!!!!!!! 🔥🔥🔥🔥 I was so excited for Hunter and Gabby’s story and it did not disappoint. These two had insane chemistry and when they were together… I’m still blushing!
I enjoyed the character development for Gabby and Hunter during this story and how they found a true partner and supporter in each other. I loved that each of them were able to see their worth in a relationship with each other compared to how they were treated by their exes.
Hunter was a man obsessed from the beginning and he just wanted Gabby to realize how good they could be together. I wanted to shake Gabby in the beginning because I just wanted her to realize how perfect they were for each other!!!! And once they were together for real, omg 🥵 Hunter was a gentleman in the streets and a FREAKKKKKK in the sheets!!!!!! Gabby, you are a lucky girl!!!!
I really did enjoy this story but felt it did drag from time to time. I loved the glimpses of other couples and can’t wait for the next book!!!!
So honestly, I really went into this book thinking that it was a young adult romance that took place with them being in college with the way that some of it was worded in the tropes. And with what I read I was not really expecting much smut but it does have actually quite a bit. It is not young adult like I thought it was. I would definitely check your trigger warnings if you have any. I normally the longer list of triggers. It has the better for me. I've always been that way though I have yet to find one that triggers me. This book I absolutely love the development he fell first before he even really knew her like he had known her from mutual friends and kind of just over time developed that love. So when they first really talk, you can see how that development from his friends group to knowing her has developed into more of a strong love instead of an obsession of love. In a way, I do love that he falls first before she does because you don't see that in a lot of new adult College books. A lot of what you see in a college romance is she falls first. He falls second.
An Emotional, Character‑Driven Romance Worth Savoring I received My Treasured Obsession as an ARC from Love Notes PR, and wow — this book is a journey. At just over 500 pages, it’s richly written, immersive, and full of emotional depth. The author crafts a story that pulls you in from the first chapter, and the character growth is genuinely beautiful to watch unfold. Gabby’s trauma is handled with care, nuance, and intention. Her path toward healing and self‑worth felt heartfelt and believable, and Hunter’s devotion to her shines through in every scene. The author’s attention to detail — from Gabby’s outfits to the way Hunter sees her — is absolutely fantastic. My only critique is the amount of internal monologuing around their obsession with each other. While their connection is intense and meaningful, I personally could have done with a little less repetition of that theme. Still, this author has absolutely earned a spot on my “must‑read again” list. Her storytelling is engaging, her characters are vivid, and her writing style is one I’ll be returning to.
Que livro lindo. Confesso que, sendo que o casal estava bem a meio do livro, fiquei cheia de ansiedade, a achar que iria haver algum third act breakup ou assim. Mas, felizmente, não era nada disso. O Hunter é a maior green flag que já vi em livros. Completamente louco pela Gabriela, antes sequer de ela saber, e mostrando-lhe como o amor pode ser lindo e simples. A Gabby tem os seus traumas que a fizeram deixar de acreditar no amor para si mesma. No entanto, aos poucos, vai baixando as suas defesas, e deixando o Hunt entrar. Estes dois são lindos. A forma como ambos ficam mais confiantes e em paz juntos é fantástica. Quanto ao plot do mistério, I mean, eu nunca desconfiei. Apanhou-me completamente desprevenida. Vamos também falar do quão fofa é a Luna? E o quão spicy são a nossa doll e o nosso pretty boy?? Quero ler mais da autora, mas confesso que não dei 5 estrelas porque o livro tem mais de 600 páginas, e penso que não era necessário. Mas, sem ser isso, adorei.
My Treasured Obsession has a strong core concept and ultimately, that is what kept me reading. The pairing of a star quarterback and a guarded mob princess is intriguing and I genuinely enjoyed Hunter and Gabriela as characters. Their chemistry is clear and there are moments where their connection really shines.
That said, the execution didn’t fully live up to the promise. The story felt longer than necessary, with several sections that could have been condensed without losing the impact of the story. At times the pacing dragged and there were parts of the plot that felt scattered, making the narrative feel unfocused rather than unfolding smoothly.
Overall, this is a solid idea with appealing characters and an interesting blend of sports romance and mafia elements. With stronger editing and a more streamlined structure, it could have been much more impactful. A good concept that just didn’t quite stick the landing for me.
While reading this book, I really loved the way Hunter was with Gabby from the beginning, how he really tried and successfully integrated himself into her life, driving her to school or, in general, doing nice gestures simply because he wanted to and obviously loved to see her smile. He was truly down bad for her in every way possible I loved every min of it. As well as seeing the ups and downs they went through together, no matter what happened, they were always leaning on each other for support through the hard times. I also loved the relationship Gabby had with her friends always so supportive truly showing up for her telling her the things she needed to hear it was truly a lovely thing to see. There would be some things I would change about the ending but there was a lot I liked about it as well overall
I really wanted to like this one, but unfortunately it just didn’t work for me. The biggest issue was the length. 500+ pages felt wildly unnecessary for the story being told. The pacing dragged a lot, and the plot often felt messy instead of immersive.
The mafia aspect was honestly not it. It felt underdeveloped and didn’t add much tension or depth, which was disappointing since it’s a big selling point. As for the romance, Gabriella and Hunter’s relationship didn’t fully convince me. Their connection felt rushed and forced rather than something that naturally grew on the page.
There were moments I enjoyed, but overall the story could have benefited so much from tighter editing and stronger focus. Sadly, this one just wasn’t for me.
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Marzy Opal for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This follows MMC Hunter, a very popular quarterback, and Gabriela, a mob princess.
Gabriela avoids any serious relationships and Hunter has liked her for a long time and wants a serious relationship with her. Their friendship turns to love and it was a wonderful ride reading about it.
They have an instant attraction to each other and this book becomes spicy! There is a major plot twist, suspense, great family dynamics, wonderful supportive friendships, and plenty of spice.
The side characters added depth and support both of them. Gabriela's family brings additional humor to the story and that has always been something I look for in a good book!
Thank you @marzyopal and @lovenotes.pr for the opportunity to read and review this.
Story: 4.5⭐️ Characters: 4.5🌶️ Character growth: 4.5⭐️ Spice: 3.5🌶️
thanks to love notes pr and marzy opal for an arc of this book!
unfortunately this book was not for me, i think i am not a mafia romance girl tbh and this sealed that deal. this book took me way too long to read as i was not wanting to reach for it and i almost did dnf it.
this book is dual pov and follows gabriella, a mob princess and hunter, the popular guy on campus. lowkey did not like hunter at all, his obsession with gabby was kinda weird as he was obsessed with her before she really got to know him.
this book was also super smut heavy and normally that's great but in this book, i think i just wasn't vibing them as a couple and the way hunter was talking icked me out massively lol
First, I want to thank Love Notes Pr for this arc. If you love mafia romance with a lot of smut & an obsessive Mmc then this will be the book for you. I really wanted to love it but I think personally mafia books are no longer up my alley which makes me sad because they used to be my favorite. Hunter’s actions towards Gabriela were so sweet and caring, how he noticed all the things she loved and would simply do them to make her happy. Gabriela letting down her walls was sweet to see how she was when she let herself feel. I also really loved the friendships in this book and how well they all are intertwined. This isn’t a bad book, it’s actually a decent read, just not for me but it could be your favorite! This is my honest review. 2.5✨