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Wrong Bride. Right Capo.: A Forced Marriage Age Gap Mafia Romance
She wasn’t supposed to be mine…
until she became the weapon that could wreck my empire—
and the mother of the baby I never knew I had.
On the day I was meant to marry her sister,
Isabella Rossi was shoved into my arms instead—
quiet, bookish, and dangerous in ways no man ever anticipates.
I only needed a wife for power.
For the deal that would protect my empire.
What I got was a battle I didn’t see coming.
Because, in my world, betrayal runs deepest in blood.
And the traitors within my family will learn a hard
I’m not a man who breaks.
I’m the man who breaks others...
Isabella might have been the wrong bride at my altar…
but she's just the right weapon I’ll use to make every last one of those traitors bleed—especially now that she’s carrying my heir.
This is Dominic and Isabella’s story. A Dark Mafia romance with all the tropes you
Enemies To LoversForced MarriageSecret BabyOpposite AttractsWrong Bride At The AltarA Possessive Don Who Kills For His WomanA Feisty HeroineTouch Her And Die Vibes… A Whole Lot Of Them!
And If you’ve devoured Ezra, Elio, and Cortez’s stories, you know how filthy and dark the Savage Mafia Emperors in my stories go. Expect nothing less for Dominic’s story!
Coming soon in Fall of 2025. Release date will be brought forward accordingly.
Title + Cover Reveal + Full Book Description coming soon.
until she became the weapon that could wreck my empire—
and the mother of the baby I never knew I had.
On the day I was meant to marry her sister,
Isabella Rossi was shoved into my arms instead—
quiet, bookish, and dangerous in ways no man ever anticipates.
I only needed a wife for power.
For the deal that would protect my empire.
What I got was a battle I didn’t see coming.
Because, in my world, betrayal runs deepest in blood.
And the traitors within my family will learn a hard
I’m not a man who breaks.
I’m the man who breaks others...
Isabella might have been the wrong bride at my altar…
but she's just the right weapon I’ll use to make every last one of those traitors bleed—especially now that she’s carrying my heir.
This is Dominic and Isabella’s story. A Dark Mafia romance with all the tropes you
Enemies To LoversForced MarriageSecret BabyOpposite AttractsWrong Bride At The AltarA Possessive Don Who Kills For His WomanA Feisty HeroineTouch Her And Die Vibes… A Whole Lot Of Them!
And If you’ve devoured Ezra, Elio, and Cortez’s stories, you know how filthy and dark the Savage Mafia Emperors in my stories go. Expect nothing less for Dominic’s story!
Coming soon in Fall of 2025. Release date will be brought forward accordingly.
Title + Cover Reveal + Full Book Description coming soon.
419 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 10, 2026
About the author
Valencia Rose
19 books82 followersValencia Rose is an Indie Author who loves to create a world of love and happy ever afters for her readers to escape from the crazy times we currently live in. She loves to breathe life into sizzling hot stories revolving around Sexy Billionaires, Alpha Bosses and Dominant Playboys who will stop at nothing to get who they want, when they want and how they want.
If you like Steamy Contemporary Romance books, make sure to subscribe to Valencia's Club to grab your very own copy of one of her latest steamy romance novellas for free here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/8h4cfh6qfv. And as a member of Valencia's Romance Club you get to receive first dibs on her new releases, share your feedback and suggestions about what stories you'd love to read more of in her books and which hot bad boys you'd like to see more of on her covers. You can also drop her an email anytime at Valencia@ValenciaRoseAuthor.com.
If you like Steamy Contemporary Romance books, make sure to subscribe to Valencia's Club to grab your very own copy of one of her latest steamy romance novellas for free here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/8h4cfh6qfv. And as a member of Valencia's Romance Club you get to receive first dibs on her new releases, share your feedback and suggestions about what stories you'd love to read more of in her books and which hot bad boys you'd like to see more of on her covers. You can also drop her an email anytime at Valencia@ValenciaRoseAuthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
April 15, 2026
Weak weak weak
Spoilers
A good girl doesn't have to be weak, a push over and a doormat.
First you twin, father and step mother treats you like trash, thier slave and physical abuse you.
Day after you married, you are having coffee with your daddy and he is being soooo nice to you and gave you a bracelet. The man just the day before hit you, tossed you on the ground and would of done more. Please, that was just to dumb.
Sure all her back talk you act like this makes her strong but really just a child and brat begging for attention.
How she would trust her family after years of abusive is just sad and shameful. She is out, never has to go back.
Tell your husband, have a conversation but noooo that is way to hard.
I really wanted to like this but just couldn't. So fake and over the top.
I want a strong female who knows her worth, who doesn't forgive abuse and forgives at a drop of a dime.
But of course you will have her "save the day" this was eye roll.
But hey love how she lets the step mom who abused her be in her daughters life.
This was not a happy ending for me, is was just sad she was still the little girl wanting to be loved I stead of protecting her daughter
Spoilers
A good girl doesn't have to be weak, a push over and a doormat.
First you twin, father and step mother treats you like trash, thier slave and physical abuse you.
Day after you married, you are having coffee with your daddy and he is being soooo nice to you and gave you a bracelet. The man just the day before hit you, tossed you on the ground and would of done more. Please, that was just to dumb.
Sure all her back talk you act like this makes her strong but really just a child and brat begging for attention.
How she would trust her family after years of abusive is just sad and shameful. She is out, never has to go back.
Tell your husband, have a conversation but noooo that is way to hard.
I really wanted to like this but just couldn't. So fake and over the top.
I want a strong female who knows her worth, who doesn't forgive abuse and forgives at a drop of a dime.
But of course you will have her "save the day" this was eye roll.
But hey love how she lets the step mom who abused her be in her daughters life.
This was not a happy ending for me, is was just sad she was still the little girl wanting to be loved I stead of protecting her daughter
April 21, 2026
This book was written like a wattpad mafia romance. The writing was mediocre and the characters lacked true depth. Isabella was a pushover and a whiny little crybaby. She let her sister walk all over her, her dad treat her like shit, and her husband push her around.
Dominic was controlling in a way I don’t like in mafia books. He was demanding and didn’t trust Isabella. The sex was decent. But again, Dominic lacks depth. Isabella just couldn’t get past the ugly twin mentality. Her nerdy personality and lack of personality.
Isabella just instantly trust her dad after all the abuse she suffered? That’s crazy girl. But someone as insecure and spineless as her would. All she wants is validation. The ending with Elena being manipulated by the father was a lame save for their relationship.
What did I like about this book? I wonder as I write this review. The smut? Possibly. The plot? No. The characters? Absolutely not. The ending? Definitely not.
Dominic was controlling in a way I don’t like in mafia books. He was demanding and didn’t trust Isabella. The sex was decent. But again, Dominic lacks depth. Isabella just couldn’t get past the ugly twin mentality. Her nerdy personality and lack of personality.
Isabella just instantly trust her dad after all the abuse she suffered? That’s crazy girl. But someone as insecure and spineless as her would. All she wants is validation. The ending with Elena being manipulated by the father was a lame save for their relationship.
What did I like about this book? I wonder as I write this review. The smut? Possibly. The plot? No. The characters? Absolutely not. The ending? Definitely not.
Did Not Finish
June 25, 2026One of these days, the Watt-pad writers are going to collaborate with the AI prompt writers and we may actually get a decent book. Or maybe a bigger mess. Who really knows? Anyways, this is of the Watt-pad mess variety, so I noped out.
April 17, 2026
DNF @ 53%. I tried, but the writing style is not working for me. The characters could all blow themselves up and I would not give a shit. I got nothing from this…no emotional connection to the characters at all. The female lead is annoying and behaves like a child. I just can’t anymore 🤷🏻♀️🥴
April 12, 2026
2.5⭐ There were weird jumps in the story, especially at the end. It was definitely insta-attraction with hostility, which is fine. But to go from that to love and trust in the matter of a chapter? That was harder to accept.
August 16, 2026
i don’t understand the five star reviews
I hardly ever review but whilst the storyline had promise it lacked detail. It felt like a draft of a story rather than the finished product.
This story takes form of every other mafia/marriage plot but has some interesting variations. I really struggled with the writing, very little descriptive writing and characters lacked proper development.
I hardly ever review but whilst the storyline had promise it lacked detail. It felt like a draft of a story rather than the finished product.
This story takes form of every other mafia/marriage plot but has some interesting variations. I really struggled with the writing, very little descriptive writing and characters lacked proper development.
June 28, 2026
Well that was terrible.
Writing felt all over the place, read more like a Wattpad book than anything else. New characters added every few pages, and absolutely zero romance, just pure smut, and not great smut at that. Should’ve DNF but I’m determined not to do that in 2026.
Writing felt all over the place, read more like a Wattpad book than anything else. New characters added every few pages, and absolutely zero romance, just pure smut, and not great smut at that. Should’ve DNF but I’m determined not to do that in 2026.
June 28, 2026
Dit was een goede sidewuest boek 👌🏻
De reading speed is weer net zo aan als max verstappen
De reading speed is weer net zo aan als max verstappen
July 1, 2026
stoic hero
What a rough start to a marriage! Dominic and Isabella are tricked into marriage by her conniving, abusive father.Gradually their walls are taken down, a little at a time. They survive betrayal, a war and almost die. Finally, after months of distrust, they finally acknowledge love and start to heal. A very happy ending. Well written story with good plot. Would recommend this to anyone who wants the “ugly duckling” to be revealed as the beautiful swan they were always.
What a rough start to a marriage! Dominic and Isabella are tricked into marriage by her conniving, abusive father.Gradually their walls are taken down, a little at a time. They survive betrayal, a war and almost die. Finally, after months of distrust, they finally acknowledge love and start to heal. A very happy ending. Well written story with good plot. Would recommend this to anyone who wants the “ugly duckling” to be revealed as the beautiful swan they were always.
June 18, 2026
Mafia King-Falls
Dominic is your typical Mafia King. He is ruthless and makes it seem like he has no heart due to his past. What happened to him as a young boy shouldn’t happen and the fact he feels it was his fault- heartbreaking. He is really a softie when the right woman comes along. She truly brought him to his knees. Bella is one strong young lady who has her share of bullies and her mental state is weakened. She feels what people have purposefully told her. But Dominic shows her she is loved and beautiful. But these two don’t have it easy and have to fight for what they want. Great start to a great series of books.
Dominic is your typical Mafia King. He is ruthless and makes it seem like he has no heart due to his past. What happened to him as a young boy shouldn’t happen and the fact he feels it was his fault- heartbreaking. He is really a softie when the right woman comes along. She truly brought him to his knees. Bella is one strong young lady who has her share of bullies and her mental state is weakened. She feels what people have purposefully told her. But Dominic shows her she is loved and beautiful. But these two don’t have it easy and have to fight for what they want. Great start to a great series of books.
April 13, 2026
This is Wrong Bride Right Capo by Valencia Rose and is part of the Reign of Mafia Capos series.
This book was really well written and I loved watching Dominic defend Bella. The neglect and abuse she suffered at home was enough to make me cry. But the way Dominic loved her and made her feel whole was so endearing and sweet.
This is a mafia romance so please keep in mind this is semi dark and some things may trigger you. Please make the best decision for yourself based of the description of the book.
Bella ended up being the fill in bride when her sister ran the day of the wedding. Now she is being forced by her horrible father to marry the scariest capo she’s ever known. Little does she know it’s the same man who gave her the best, most memorable one night stand of her life the night before.
Dominic is the Capo of the Moretti Mafia and is known for his cold nature and ruthlessness in business. He doesn’t do sweet or loving, and is very irritated by the bride swap at his wedding but he is also a little excited as he remembers her sweet, curvy body from the night before. But can he keep himself in check or will he fall for his new wife?
I loved and hated these two. Individually I get them but together sometimes I just shook my head. I can’t with the miscommunication but I’m seeing the whole picture while they only see their half. Like the AI video. Ugh it was so awful and I can totally imagine what Bella was feeling but Dom seeing it and saying it was a fake and could tell just by looking at it was annoying. I loved that he immediately thought of what Bella would think if she saw it. But he didn’t react in time. Again I saw the whole picture but poor Bella sat at home crying her eyes out over something that was a lie.
This was an amazing story and if you’ve never read Valencia’s work I highly suggest you give her a read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was really well written and I loved watching Dominic defend Bella. The neglect and abuse she suffered at home was enough to make me cry. But the way Dominic loved her and made her feel whole was so endearing and sweet.
This is a mafia romance so please keep in mind this is semi dark and some things may trigger you. Please make the best decision for yourself based of the description of the book.
Bella ended up being the fill in bride when her sister ran the day of the wedding. Now she is being forced by her horrible father to marry the scariest capo she’s ever known. Little does she know it’s the same man who gave her the best, most memorable one night stand of her life the night before.
Dominic is the Capo of the Moretti Mafia and is known for his cold nature and ruthlessness in business. He doesn’t do sweet or loving, and is very irritated by the bride swap at his wedding but he is also a little excited as he remembers her sweet, curvy body from the night before. But can he keep himself in check or will he fall for his new wife?
I loved and hated these two. Individually I get them but together sometimes I just shook my head. I can’t with the miscommunication but I’m seeing the whole picture while they only see their half. Like the AI video. Ugh it was so awful and I can totally imagine what Bella was feeling but Dom seeing it and saying it was a fake and could tell just by looking at it was annoying. I loved that he immediately thought of what Bella would think if she saw it. But he didn’t react in time. Again I saw the whole picture but poor Bella sat at home crying her eyes out over something that was a lie.
This was an amazing story and if you’ve never read Valencia’s work I highly suggest you give her a read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 4, 2026
Unlikable characters
spoilers
I did not like the start of this book where she had a trashy one night stand with the MC. It's unusual for a mafia daughter to be sexually active they're usually . that they're married it takes all of the mystery and angst out of it, also he treats her rude and cold. Then he want sex and of course she hates him but she is dripping wet and begging. The more he mistreats her handcuffs being hit with riding crop nipple clamps. I wish authors would come up with new realistic dialogue instead of the same copy and paste in so many of the mafia books. It makes it so hard to stay engaged so many inconsistencies in one page men are making fun of her looks and the next one they're saying how absolutely stunning she is. This book is all over the place. I scrolled to the end and it was predictable and corny. However I disliked that even though she was pregnant he beat her her red and bruised. I don't mind a little rough forceful Alpha male. However I do not consider pain foreplay. If pain is so great why don't they put clamps on the man's testicles LOL I struggled with this book but someone else might like this it was not my type of romance
spoilers
I did not like the start of this book where she had a trashy one night stand with the MC. It's unusual for a mafia daughter to be sexually active they're usually . that they're married it takes all of the mystery and angst out of it, also he treats her rude and cold. Then he want sex and of course she hates him but she is dripping wet and begging. The more he mistreats her handcuffs being hit with riding crop nipple clamps. I wish authors would come up with new realistic dialogue instead of the same copy and paste in so many of the mafia books. It makes it so hard to stay engaged so many inconsistencies in one page men are making fun of her looks and the next one they're saying how absolutely stunning she is. This book is all over the place. I scrolled to the end and it was predictable and corny. However I disliked that even though she was pregnant he beat her her red and bruised. I don't mind a little rough forceful Alpha male. However I do not consider pain foreplay. If pain is so great why don't they put clamps on the man's testicles LOL I struggled with this book but someone else might like this it was not my type of romance
April 25, 2026
Isabella went with her sister into a club because the next day her sister is going to marry one of the moretti mafia , when she was grapping something from the floor she felt some liquid onto her cleavage, when she looked up she realized that in front of her was a gorgeous man and the liquid was his wine .instead he helped her up ,he tells her watch were you’re going next time.
With anger she went to the patio alone, and there she met him again, he was teasing her because she was angry and then they finished making out.
The day of the marriage arrived , her father went to her room and grabbed her, took her to another room were the maids were waiting with a wedding dress on their hands.
Then she realized that the bride was herself , she was told that her sister ran away and she had to sacrifice her life.
When she met the man at the altar she couldn’t believe that the same man she was going to marry is the same man she met the night before.
An amazing mafia story that I enjoyed reading
With anger she went to the patio alone, and there she met him again, he was teasing her because she was angry and then they finished making out.
The day of the marriage arrived , her father went to her room and grabbed her, took her to another room were the maids were waiting with a wedding dress on their hands.
Then she realized that the bride was herself , she was told that her sister ran away and she had to sacrifice her life.
When she met the man at the altar she couldn’t believe that the same man she was going to marry is the same man she met the night before.
An amazing mafia story that I enjoyed reading
April 13, 2026
I absolutely loved this page-turner. It was well written and while I think the spacing on each paragraph was strange, it worked well! I loved the start to Isabella and Dominic's relationship. From the start, I absolutely despised Elena and Isabella's dad and stepmom - something just felt off about both of them. The progression of Dominic's love towards Isabella was amazing. The book is dual-POV which made learning about Dominic's world easier. Reading how Dominic defends Isabella makes me want someone to defend me like that. The change in the sibling relationship reminds me of the relationship that has grown between my siblings and I over the years. Absolutely loved the ending!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2026
A solid four
I enjoy reading this book. I will say it felt very familiar. I guess this trope is one that’s used often. I thought the impromptu meeting was done. Well it was believable. I think the dynamic between the sisters was rushed so didn’t really pick up on that as much did appreciate the tension between the main characters. I think it was a bit unrealistic for her to turn into superwoman and escape and come back, but it was for the book all in all the spice with spicing so it was good. Apologies for any typos. This was voice to text.
I enjoy reading this book. I will say it felt very familiar. I guess this trope is one that’s used often. I thought the impromptu meeting was done. Well it was believable. I think the dynamic between the sisters was rushed so didn’t really pick up on that as much did appreciate the tension between the main characters. I think it was a bit unrealistic for her to turn into superwoman and escape and come back, but it was for the book all in all the spice with spicing so it was good. Apologies for any typos. This was voice to text.
April 27, 2026
What a book to read!
This book is by far one of the best that I habe read in my top 10 of books. This book will leave you speechless and hanging by a thread all at the same time. I gave this book 5 stars because it deserves it. Sitting on the edge of your seat, nail bitting scenes, and man, the scenes behind closed doors. For once I am speechless as I don't know what else to put. Great book! I highly recommend.
This book is by far one of the best that I habe read in my top 10 of books. This book will leave you speechless and hanging by a thread all at the same time. I gave this book 5 stars because it deserves it. Sitting on the edge of your seat, nail bitting scenes, and man, the scenes behind closed doors. For once I am speechless as I don't know what else to put. Great book! I highly recommend.
May 4, 2026
I couldn’t put this down! It was the perfect mix of mafia, plot, action and spice. Our FMC is the unwanted sister and ends up becoming the bride when her sister runs away on her wedding day. Dominic is closed off and jaded but he sees Bella’s worth even if it’s only transactional at first. He’s so possessive of anyone that touches or even talks about his wife. This was my first book by this author and won’t be my last.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I've read many books from this author. This is a dark romance, set in a very violent world. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I really like the premise of the book. The story itself was very engrossing & well-developed. It captured my interest from the very beginning. I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this book!
It's written in a dual point of view style with the chapters going back & forth between the main characters. It helps you understand where each are coming from & why they act in certain ways.
The main characters are Isabella & Dominic. Isabella is the unwanted daughter of the Don of the Rossi Mafia. Dominic is a business mogul & the Don of the Moretti Mafia. They meet at a club & are attracted to each other. They have an encounter. Due to circumstances beyond her control, Isabella is forced into an arranged marriage with Dominic to solidify an alliance between their families. They don't want to have feelings for each other, but the attraction is strong. The book does a good job showing this struggle. At the same time, Dominic has been experiencing problems with his mafia business. He is determined to uncover the responsible parties & exact his revenge. The more time Isabella & Dominic spend together, the more they get to know each other. Their chemistry is combustible, whether they like it or not. The closer Dominic gets to finding his enemies, the more dangerous things become. As Isabella's search for the truth puts her in jeopardy, Dominic realizes how dire the situation is. The threat must be dealt with. Long-held secrets come to light. Isabella & Dominic must decide whether or not they have a future together. There are many twists & turns that keep this book interesting.
There's a lot of spice in the story. The many secondary characters, good & bad (some very bad), help flesh out the world of the story. I love how sassy, strong & courageous Isabella turns out to be. I really like the friendship between Dominic & Matteo. I applaud Isabella's plans to help others like her. The book does a good job dealing with trauma & healing. I really appreciate the growth arcs of the characters over the course of the story. I don't want to say any more so as not to spoil anything. You really should read this story. This book is definitely a must read!
I received a free ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
It's written in a dual point of view style with the chapters going back & forth between the main characters. It helps you understand where each are coming from & why they act in certain ways.
The main characters are Isabella & Dominic. Isabella is the unwanted daughter of the Don of the Rossi Mafia. Dominic is a business mogul & the Don of the Moretti Mafia. They meet at a club & are attracted to each other. They have an encounter. Due to circumstances beyond her control, Isabella is forced into an arranged marriage with Dominic to solidify an alliance between their families. They don't want to have feelings for each other, but the attraction is strong. The book does a good job showing this struggle. At the same time, Dominic has been experiencing problems with his mafia business. He is determined to uncover the responsible parties & exact his revenge. The more time Isabella & Dominic spend together, the more they get to know each other. Their chemistry is combustible, whether they like it or not. The closer Dominic gets to finding his enemies, the more dangerous things become. As Isabella's search for the truth puts her in jeopardy, Dominic realizes how dire the situation is. The threat must be dealt with. Long-held secrets come to light. Isabella & Dominic must decide whether or not they have a future together. There are many twists & turns that keep this book interesting.
There's a lot of spice in the story. The many secondary characters, good & bad (some very bad), help flesh out the world of the story. I love how sassy, strong & courageous Isabella turns out to be. I really like the friendship between Dominic & Matteo. I applaud Isabella's plans to help others like her. The book does a good job dealing with trauma & healing. I really appreciate the growth arcs of the characters over the course of the story. I don't want to say any more so as not to spoil anything. You really should read this story. This book is definitely a must read!
I received a free ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Isabella had suddenly been told by her father that she was replacing her sister Elena, being given to Dominic Moretti
Isabella had never known the love of her father only her mother who had been killed in an accident, then along had come a stepmother that had hated her like her father and she had been tormented and bullied relentlessly.
Worse though was the pain she has suffered when her own twin sister the one they considered to be beautiful as she did not have her red hair and curves had even abandoned her, tormented her and ignored her so when she had been told that Elena had run on the eve of her wedding and that she was the replacement she knew her life had come to an end.
Dominic had hated that he had been tricked by his supposed new in law but when he has seen Isabella and had watched the way that she stood up to him even though she was scared he had slowly felt his walls begin to crumble. The first time that he had actually allowed her into his heart he had realised that they could have something special if only he could discover who was leaking information about his organisation.
Isabella had been able to see that Dominic was under terrible strain and even though he was the first person to actually ever go out of their way to make her happy, he had even built a library for her and filled it with her favourite authors.
Then someone had tried to kill her, they had run her car off the road and had shot her just as Dominic had reached her and fought alongside his second to remove her from an alley filled with gun men, it was the first time ever he nearly got himself shot because he failed to notice the risks around him when he saw how scarred Isabella was.
I guarantee that the twists and turns of this story will hold you transfixed right to the very last page, I look forward to more books in this series.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Isabella had never known the love of her father only her mother who had been killed in an accident, then along had come a stepmother that had hated her like her father and she had been tormented and bullied relentlessly.
Worse though was the pain she has suffered when her own twin sister the one they considered to be beautiful as she did not have her red hair and curves had even abandoned her, tormented her and ignored her so when she had been told that Elena had run on the eve of her wedding and that she was the replacement she knew her life had come to an end.
Dominic had hated that he had been tricked by his supposed new in law but when he has seen Isabella and had watched the way that she stood up to him even though she was scared he had slowly felt his walls begin to crumble. The first time that he had actually allowed her into his heart he had realised that they could have something special if only he could discover who was leaking information about his organisation.
Isabella had been able to see that Dominic was under terrible strain and even though he was the first person to actually ever go out of their way to make her happy, he had even built a library for her and filled it with her favourite authors.
Then someone had tried to kill her, they had run her car off the road and had shot her just as Dominic had reached her and fought alongside his second to remove her from an alley filled with gun men, it was the first time ever he nearly got himself shot because he failed to notice the risks around him when he saw how scarred Isabella was.
I guarantee that the twists and turns of this story will hold you transfixed right to the very last page, I look forward to more books in this series.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2026
This book was a good start, but in no way was it ready to be published yet. The FMC was weak and just dumb, there was not much chemistry, and the author's writing was truly a problem.
You have this woman who has been overlooked and mistreated her entire life, to the point where her father hits her and forces her to marry someone, and the next day she totally believes he is turning over a new leaf with a gift and apology? Seriously? I suspected that bracelet from the very first minute. The fact that she would wear it all the time, too, just astounds me.
Then, our bland MMC throws her out as soon as he finds it. Doesn't let her explain or even think about what he is actually doing. Just tosses her out. Then later, when it is proven she didn't have anything to do with it, he says that he must love her because he didn't kill her for it. This is why there was no chemistry. I didn't feel anything, and just because he didn't kill her doesn't mean he loves her. And that's all the apology and grovel we get from him, too.
My biggest concern with this book, though, was the writing. With every chapter, the author will build up the drama and action, and then end the chapter at that point. But the next chapter doesn't take over and there is no followthrough to anything. The next chapter is usually a few days later, and starts it all over again. We don't get any continuation or fallout from their actions.
Then, at the end, Isabella just shows up at the attack?! She somehow manages to escape from her falther off page and makes her way to save the day. It is explained later how it happens, but it just clunky as hell.
I had decided to read this, even though it was the first in a series and there are no others out, yet. I'm glad I didn't wait, though, as I am perfectly fine just skipping the others. The writing style just annoyed me, and I don't want to have to deal with that again.
You have this woman who has been overlooked and mistreated her entire life, to the point where her father hits her and forces her to marry someone, and the next day she totally believes he is turning over a new leaf with a gift and apology? Seriously? I suspected that bracelet from the very first minute. The fact that she would wear it all the time, too, just astounds me.
Then, our bland MMC throws her out as soon as he finds it. Doesn't let her explain or even think about what he is actually doing. Just tosses her out. Then later, when it is proven she didn't have anything to do with it, he says that he must love her because he didn't kill her for it. This is why there was no chemistry. I didn't feel anything, and just because he didn't kill her doesn't mean he loves her. And that's all the apology and grovel we get from him, too.
My biggest concern with this book, though, was the writing. With every chapter, the author will build up the drama and action, and then end the chapter at that point. But the next chapter doesn't take over and there is no followthrough to anything. The next chapter is usually a few days later, and starts it all over again. We don't get any continuation or fallout from their actions.
Then, at the end, Isabella just shows up at the attack?! She somehow manages to escape from her falther off page and makes her way to save the day. It is explained later how it happens, but it just clunky as hell.
I had decided to read this, even though it was the first in a series and there are no others out, yet. I'm glad I didn't wait, though, as I am perfectly fine just skipping the others. The writing style just annoyed me, and I don't want to have to deal with that again.
April 11, 2026
Great Dark Mafia Romance
A brilliantly dark mafia romance, full of action, drama, forced marriage, enemies to lovers, an obsessive & possessive MMC, a defiant FMC, violence, steamy romance, touch her and ☠️ , suspense, danger, power struggle and passion with some fabulous twists.
Isabella has always been the unwanted twin, with red hair rather than her beautiful sister's blonde. She'd always felt alone and never wanted, but after her sister runs on her wedding day (arranged by their father with the most powerful, and ruthless Don in the city), she's made to take her place as a replacement bride.
Dominic had seen his father betrayed and killed when he was young. After exacting revenge he had taken over the mafia family and become known as the king. He grumpy and deadly, and doesn't do feelings, but after marrying Bella he can't help but feel possessive, and protective, towards her. Though he takes her ruthlessly and then makes it clear that she's to stay away from him, he can't stop thinking about her. When she's looked at wrong or spoken of rudely, he reacts with punishments, and when she's attacked he'll burn the city down to protect her.
"You are wanted Princess," he whispers. "More than you know. You're mine. And I'll put you on your knees a thousand times, to show you what you do to me, if that's what it takes to make you believe it."
And
"I don't share Princess."
A great story by Valencia Rose which I couldn't put down and would recommend if you love:
❤️🔥 Enemies to Lovers
❤️🔥 Forced Marriage
❤️🔥 Age Gap
❤️🔥 Possessive Obsessed Antihero
☠️ “Touch Her and D!e” Vibes
☠️ “Who Did This to You?”
❤️🔥 Surprise Pregnancy
❤️🔥 Grumpy & Defiant
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A brilliantly dark mafia romance, full of action, drama, forced marriage, enemies to lovers, an obsessive & possessive MMC, a defiant FMC, violence, steamy romance, touch her and ☠️ , suspense, danger, power struggle and passion with some fabulous twists.
Isabella has always been the unwanted twin, with red hair rather than her beautiful sister's blonde. She'd always felt alone and never wanted, but after her sister runs on her wedding day (arranged by their father with the most powerful, and ruthless Don in the city), she's made to take her place as a replacement bride.
Dominic had seen his father betrayed and killed when he was young. After exacting revenge he had taken over the mafia family and become known as the king. He grumpy and deadly, and doesn't do feelings, but after marrying Bella he can't help but feel possessive, and protective, towards her. Though he takes her ruthlessly and then makes it clear that she's to stay away from him, he can't stop thinking about her. When she's looked at wrong or spoken of rudely, he reacts with punishments, and when she's attacked he'll burn the city down to protect her.
"You are wanted Princess," he whispers. "More than you know. You're mine. And I'll put you on your knees a thousand times, to show you what you do to me, if that's what it takes to make you believe it."
And
"I don't share Princess."
A great story by Valencia Rose which I couldn't put down and would recommend if you love:
❤️🔥 Enemies to Lovers
❤️🔥 Forced Marriage
❤️🔥 Age Gap
❤️🔥 Possessive Obsessed Antihero
☠️ “Touch Her and D!e” Vibes
☠️ “Who Did This to You?”
❤️🔥 Surprise Pregnancy
❤️🔥 Grumpy & Defiant
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2026
I didn't finish this story because it was very predictable, with a very repetitive plot; and had characters that were unremarkable. The story's flow seemed off as well as the plot, itself. The writing style didn't resonate with me. I felt the plot was all over the place trying to do too much to lengthen the story vs., just staying on point.
I could not connect with a FMC that had NO self esteem or confidence and who instead of trying to rectify what she had endured by her ENTIRE family after a forced marriage, took no initiative to change herself. She was everyone's doormat with little to change herself even after being forced into a marriage her sister fled. Bella's entire family was a waste of time and yet, she still couldn't cut ties with them. Bella's character is the epitome of a being a completely naïve character. Her father gives her a silver bracelet with a recording device so he can get all the information he needs to bring down her husband and she thinks it is peace offering after he has spent his entire life physically, mentally and verbally abusing her?
Domenic is just another dominate a.........hole who requires complete submission not only in bed, but in everyday life. He wants to control everything she does. How many grown women need permission to visit their family for a few hours? I am over a BDSM relationship that is purely based upon a need to dominate the other person during sex. Give me a sensual well written sex or love scene and I am in, but dominate sex is just that, down and dirty sex.
I could not connect with a FMC that had NO self esteem or confidence and who instead of trying to rectify what she had endured by her ENTIRE family after a forced marriage, took no initiative to change herself. She was everyone's doormat with little to change herself even after being forced into a marriage her sister fled. Bella's entire family was a waste of time and yet, she still couldn't cut ties with them. Bella's character is the epitome of a being a completely naïve character. Her father gives her a silver bracelet with a recording device so he can get all the information he needs to bring down her husband and she thinks it is peace offering after he has spent his entire life physically, mentally and verbally abusing her?
Domenic is just another dominate a.........hole who requires complete submission not only in bed, but in everyday life. He wants to control everything she does. How many grown women need permission to visit their family for a few hours? I am over a BDSM relationship that is purely based upon a need to dominate the other person during sex. Give me a sensual well written sex or love scene and I am in, but dominate sex is just that, down and dirty sex.
Review of advance copy
Dominic is possessive, demanding, and a bit grumpy, but Bella is not a pushover, which makes their push and pull dynamic really enjoyable to read. This book gives us mafia action that shows just how deadly and possessive he is. He does get his hands dirty, so this isn’t mafia-lite, and it definitely has a dark romance edge.
The book only had two hiccups for me. First, there was a moment where Isabella appears somewhat abruptly, which made me think I had skipped a page or missed something. The explanation does come later, but the way it was revealed felt a bit retroactive and briefly interrupted the flow.
Second, there is a “call me daddy” moment later on that felt out of place. I enjoy a good daddy romance when that dynamic is built into the story, but this book did not have that tone earlier on, so it felt a bit randomly added. It did not ruin the book for me, but it did take me out of the scene for a second.
Overall, I really enjoyed Dominic and Bella together. And if a line like “Say you’re unwanted again…I dare you. I’ll f*ck the lie out of you” piques your interest, you will likely enjoy this book. I know I need more, so excuse me while I go devour more books by this author.
Ratings Explained:
★☆☆☆☆ – This book wasn’t for me
★★☆☆☆ – I didn’t like it
★★★☆☆ – It was okay
★★★★☆ – I liked it
★★★★★ – I loved it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The book only had two hiccups for me. First, there was a moment where Isabella appears somewhat abruptly, which made me think I had skipped a page or missed something. The explanation does come later, but the way it was revealed felt a bit retroactive and briefly interrupted the flow.
Second, there is a “call me daddy” moment later on that felt out of place. I enjoy a good daddy romance when that dynamic is built into the story, but this book did not have that tone earlier on, so it felt a bit randomly added. It did not ruin the book for me, but it did take me out of the scene for a second.
Overall, I really enjoyed Dominic and Bella together. And if a line like “Say you’re unwanted again…I dare you. I’ll f*ck the lie out of you” piques your interest, you will likely enjoy this book. I know I need more, so excuse me while I go devour more books by this author.
Ratings Explained:
★☆☆☆☆ – This book wasn’t for me
★★☆☆☆ – I didn’t like it
★★★☆☆ – It was okay
★★★★☆ – I liked it
★★★★★ – I loved it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 12, 2026
I was hooked from page one! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This dark mafia romance pulls you in immediately. Bella is the second twin in a mafia family that always wanted sons. Growing up, she was belittled and made to feel unloved, constantly living in the shadow of her twin sister, Elena. In her own mind, she’s the “ugly duckling.”
Dominic is the ruthless leader of the most powerful mafia group in New York. After his mother’s death, he vowed never to let anyone get close to him. He is set to marry Elena—but when she runs away on their wedding day, Bella is forced to take her place.
This is an enemies-to-lovers story with forced proximity, packed with tension. At one point, Dominic believes Bella is a traitor and thinks he should kill her—but he can’t bring himself to do it. There’s no shortage of drama, spice, and jaw-dropping twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. I was completely wrong about who I thought the villain was.
Told from both Bella’s and Dominic’s perspectives, the dual POV provides deep insight into their characters. From red-hot scenes to brutal mafia confrontations, this book never lets up. I loved how Bella gains confidence over the course of the story. A thrilling and unforgettable read!
I received a free advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This dark mafia romance pulls you in immediately. Bella is the second twin in a mafia family that always wanted sons. Growing up, she was belittled and made to feel unloved, constantly living in the shadow of her twin sister, Elena. In her own mind, she’s the “ugly duckling.”
Dominic is the ruthless leader of the most powerful mafia group in New York. After his mother’s death, he vowed never to let anyone get close to him. He is set to marry Elena—but when she runs away on their wedding day, Bella is forced to take her place.
This is an enemies-to-lovers story with forced proximity, packed with tension. At one point, Dominic believes Bella is a traitor and thinks he should kill her—but he can’t bring himself to do it. There’s no shortage of drama, spice, and jaw-dropping twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. I was completely wrong about who I thought the villain was.
Told from both Bella’s and Dominic’s perspectives, the dual POV provides deep insight into their characters. From red-hot scenes to brutal mafia confrontations, this book never lets up. I loved how Bella gains confidence over the course of the story. A thrilling and unforgettable read!
I received a free advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2026
I've read several books by this author and enjoy her writing style and character development. Her stories grab and pull you in so they are hard to put down until it's done. This is written in a dual point of view with each chapter going back and forth between the main characters.
This is the story of Isabella and Dominic. Isabella has always been in her beautiful twin sister Elena's shadow and is the unwanted daughter of the Don of the Rossi Mafia. Her father wants an alliance with Dominic who's the new Don of the Moretti Mafia. Elena is the daughter that was originally supposed to marry Dominic but Isabella ends up forced to marry Dominic in her place. Dominic is upset by the last minute bride switch. Dominic is a possessive Alpha that won't let anyone talk about or upset his new bride without serious consequences because she belongs to him. Isabella starts to show her fierceness by standing up for herself and starts to develop feelings for Dominic. There are several twists and turns as Dominic negotiates being a new Don.
This was a really great book that I couldn't put down until I finished it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the story of Isabella and Dominic. Isabella has always been in her beautiful twin sister Elena's shadow and is the unwanted daughter of the Don of the Rossi Mafia. Her father wants an alliance with Dominic who's the new Don of the Moretti Mafia. Elena is the daughter that was originally supposed to marry Dominic but Isabella ends up forced to marry Dominic in her place. Dominic is upset by the last minute bride switch. Dominic is a possessive Alpha that won't let anyone talk about or upset his new bride without serious consequences because she belongs to him. Isabella starts to show her fierceness by standing up for herself and starts to develop feelings for Dominic. There are several twists and turns as Dominic negotiates being a new Don.
This was a really great book that I couldn't put down until I finished it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 25, 2026
Bad soap opera writing - 1 & 2 sentence paragraphs which thankfully make this easy to skim. Her twin sister runs away leaving the neglected, abused sister to be forced into her wedding gown and married to the big bad Mafia guy. He plans to control and ignore her because 'my principles are set in stone.' 'I'll enjoy taming this one.' 'You'll smile when you're told, sit when you're told and fucking talk when you're told.' Laughable words. 'Watch them; I don't want any surprise attacks.'
Then her abusive father shows up 24 hours later to beg her forgiveness. She accepts his gift in hopes maybe, this time, he'll love her. I get it; she's been abused all her life. The first time he 'held her' was when he walked her down the aisle, after he slapped her hard. Then Dominic is on a rooftop with a rifle watching three gang leaders before shooting. Then he's home and gets abusive with Bella. Subjects, locations, change randomly. This is too dumb to read. 'così stupido.' DNF.
Then her abusive father shows up 24 hours later to beg her forgiveness. She accepts his gift in hopes maybe, this time, he'll love her. I get it; she's been abused all her life. The first time he 'held her' was when he walked her down the aisle, after he slapped her hard. Then Dominic is on a rooftop with a rifle watching three gang leaders before shooting. Then he's home and gets abusive with Bella. Subjects, locations, change randomly. This is too dumb to read. 'così stupido.' DNF.
April 28, 2026
3 stars just because it had potential. But did not deliver as promised. The TikTok videos for it and the book description is misleading. It’s mafia. It’s touch her and die. But the storyline of the FMC being mistreated just fails. She supposedly ugly or unwanted but yet the MMC is immediately drawn to her. Others find her attractive. Her physical description doesn’t even lead you to think she is unattractive. Just weird how forced that idea was. Plot holes throughout. I finished it but had zero attachment to the characters. If Enemies to Lovers is your thing, this won’t satisfy your cravings. Or at least it didn’t mine. Age gap didn’t even really factor into the story at all. Just blah.
May 24, 2026
Poorly written - has no flow, characters are one dimensional and though the trope was great, the story line and plot was rubbish. He’s also 42 marrying this extremely young thing, labelling women he’s slept with as whores and sluts - as if he’s not sleeping around and behaving like one himself. When we’re in his pov, he just comes off as an arrogant ahole and when we’re in her pov it doesn’t seem like she loves him (rightly so - there’s nothing to love there) but why do I want to read about a middle aged/ old man screwing someone half his age if it doesn’t even have a good plot and angst? DNF
July 1, 2026
I don’t like when blurbs lie, he doesn’t find out she’s pregnant till the end. Overall I liked this book despite its many faults. The author’s voice grabbed me from the beginning and kept hold most of the booking. I really liked how the FMC stood up for herself when interacting with MMC. For MMC I was hoping he would be OTT obsessive jealous time and he was just mid. He’s also getting his ass kicked by the bad guy most of the booking which was not attractive. The whole sub plot was way too predictable everything was obvious from the get go so time spent on it was just wasted. The wrap up at the end was way too long and I skimmed through it. I am not sure if I would try this author again.
July 29, 2026
This was an enjoyable read that kept me hooked with plenty of family drama, emotional tension, and angst. The chemistry between the characters was one of the highlights for me. I loved that the FMC was outspoken, confident, and never afraid to stand her ground, while the MMC brought a strong, dominant presence that balanced their dynamic perfectly.
If you're a fan of billionaire and mafia romances filled with high-stakes family conflict, intense chemistry, and memorable characters, this book is definitely worth picking up. I had a great time reading it and would happily recommend it to anyone who enjoys the genre.
If you're a fan of billionaire and mafia romances filled with high-stakes family conflict, intense chemistry, and memorable characters, this book is definitely worth picking up. I had a great time reading it and would happily recommend it to anyone who enjoys the genre.
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