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Your Monster: A Billionaire Mafia Dark Romance
FROM EXCITING AUTHOR OF MAFIA ROMANCE ELENA WOODS
Book one in the Boston Blood series
She ran from the monster. Now he is coming to claim her.
Lily Bianchi never asked for a place in the mafia. Born to a mistress and raised in the shadows of Boston’s criminal elite, all she’s ever wanted is a quiet life far from violence and control.
When she accidentally stumbles upon a murder scene, she finds Damiano, the ruthless Boston mafia boss they call Il Demonio, standing over the body, bloodied knife in hand. From that moment on, she becomes his obsession. As their paths tangle and his possessive desire threatens to consume her, Lily runs. But in doing so, she awakens the monster inside him, he is no longer just a man obsessed, but a predator willing to burn the world to the ground to chain her to his side, break her will piece by piece and make her body crave the very cage she swore she'd escape. Lily will have to decide if surrendering to the darkness means losing herself or finding out who she was meant to become all along.
As Damiano hunts down a human trafficking ring operating in his city, he discovers the threat is more personal than he ever imagined. To protect Lily, his little flower, from what’s coming, he will have to keep her close. Even if it is against her will.
He is her captor and her protector. Her monster.
Book one in the Boston Blood series
She ran from the monster. Now he is coming to claim her.
Lily Bianchi never asked for a place in the mafia. Born to a mistress and raised in the shadows of Boston’s criminal elite, all she’s ever wanted is a quiet life far from violence and control.
When she accidentally stumbles upon a murder scene, she finds Damiano, the ruthless Boston mafia boss they call Il Demonio, standing over the body, bloodied knife in hand. From that moment on, she becomes his obsession. As their paths tangle and his possessive desire threatens to consume her, Lily runs. But in doing so, she awakens the monster inside him, he is no longer just a man obsessed, but a predator willing to burn the world to the ground to chain her to his side, break her will piece by piece and make her body crave the very cage she swore she'd escape. Lily will have to decide if surrendering to the darkness means losing herself or finding out who she was meant to become all along.
As Damiano hunts down a human trafficking ring operating in his city, he discovers the threat is more personal than he ever imagined. To protect Lily, his little flower, from what’s coming, he will have to keep her close. Even if it is against her will.
He is her captor and her protector. Her monster.
- GenresForced Proximity
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2026
4 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 3, 2026
Rating: 4.5/5
As no surprise to me, I’m starting my February off with a Mafia Romance. Elena Woods' recent release, Your Monster, is a fast-paced, heart-pumping, spicy romance—just how I like them.
Lily sees something she shouldn’t that involves a mafia boss, Damiano. Of course, she wants to get far away, but Damiano is not having any of that. And talk about obsessive, possessive, jealous type—he is all of that. Damiano has plans for Lily, ones that will help him but also protect her. I loved how Damiano’s feelings evolved from possession to protection to love. I love stories that move quickly, and that’s what Your Monster does.
The spice was hot, and Damiano was quite sweet at times, too. The other part of the plot was the human trafficking, which may be dark to some readers. I enjoyed the story, as well as the characters, and am very excited to see more from this author.
As no surprise to me, I’m starting my February off with a Mafia Romance. Elena Woods' recent release, Your Monster, is a fast-paced, heart-pumping, spicy romance—just how I like them.
Lily sees something she shouldn’t that involves a mafia boss, Damiano. Of course, she wants to get far away, but Damiano is not having any of that. And talk about obsessive, possessive, jealous type—he is all of that. Damiano has plans for Lily, ones that will help him but also protect her. I loved how Damiano’s feelings evolved from possession to protection to love. I love stories that move quickly, and that’s what Your Monster does.
The spice was hot, and Damiano was quite sweet at times, too. The other part of the plot was the human trafficking, which may be dark to some readers. I enjoyed the story, as well as the characters, and am very excited to see more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lily:
"She is light, she is pure, like a white flower blooming in the middle of a battlefield."
Damiano:
He is "dark and dangerous..... [But to] keep it simple. Just Dark."
She's the bright light to his darkness. He is unwilling to let that light slip away! If you love a fiercely devoted main male character, with a touch her and 💀 attitude, this book is for you. Make sure you check trigger warnings, if applicable.
The book does not end on a cliffhanger for the main characters and can be read as a standalone. However, it does have a great teaser of what can come from some some of the other characters in this book, it definitely leaves me wanting more! I would love to read another book from the Boston Blood series.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC and congratulations on your debut published book! 🎉
"She is light, she is pure, like a white flower blooming in the middle of a battlefield."
Damiano:
He is "dark and dangerous..... [But to] keep it simple. Just Dark."
She's the bright light to his darkness. He is unwilling to let that light slip away! If you love a fiercely devoted main male character, with a touch her and 💀 attitude, this book is for you. Make sure you check trigger warnings, if applicable.
The book does not end on a cliffhanger for the main characters and can be read as a standalone. However, it does have a great teaser of what can come from some some of the other characters in this book, it definitely leaves me wanting more! I would love to read another book from the Boston Blood series.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC and congratulations on your debut published book! 🎉
February 19, 2026
“𝘢 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘢𝘴 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘨𝘶𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘪𝘮. 𝘏𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘧𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦, 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘳. 𝘏𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯.”
Your monster is a dark mafia romance that ticks all the boxes I crave in one. It features an obsessive MMC, a touch and ☠️ and plenty of smut. The only min point is that I wished Lily had been stronger and more badass in the whole story. In the beginning and in the end she feels like the strong woman, in the middle, not so…
This book can be read as a standalone but reading the epilogue and a piece from Erin’s story reveals that the other books are connected.
Before reading, please check the trigger warning.
Your monster is a dark mafia romance that ticks all the boxes I crave in one. It features an obsessive MMC, a touch and ☠️ and plenty of smut. The only min point is that I wished Lily had been stronger and more badass in the whole story. In the beginning and in the end she feels like the strong woman, in the middle, not so…
This book can be read as a standalone but reading the epilogue and a piece from Erin’s story reveals that the other books are connected.
Before reading, please check the trigger warning.
January 13, 2026
First, congratulations to Elena Woods on her debut book and thank you for this arc.
3.5⭐️ I’ve read my fair share of captive romances and it’s always hit or miss for me. This first chapter had me completely hooked, but I had a hard time with their relationship. It feels very insta-lust and for me personally that’s just one of my least favorite troupes. I just wish there would’ve been more of a build up between the mcs. The plot though? I loved it, it was intersting and kept you wanting more.
I liked Lily (25) in the beginning, but somewhere in the middle she just fell off for me. Damiano (34) is very OTT obsessed and I think for me he just came off way too strong. I guess I would’ve liked to see more of their relationship grow. I felt chemistry, but it just lacked something. The back and forth I think is what really it made not enjoyable. This book didn’t really fit me, but it may be for you.
3.5⭐️ I’ve read my fair share of captive romances and it’s always hit or miss for me. This first chapter had me completely hooked, but I had a hard time with their relationship. It feels very insta-lust and for me personally that’s just one of my least favorite troupes. I just wish there would’ve been more of a build up between the mcs. The plot though? I loved it, it was intersting and kept you wanting more.
I liked Lily (25) in the beginning, but somewhere in the middle she just fell off for me. Damiano (34) is very OTT obsessed and I think for me he just came off way too strong. I guess I would’ve liked to see more of their relationship grow. I felt chemistry, but it just lacked something. The back and forth I think is what really it made not enjoyable. This book didn’t really fit me, but it may be for you.
February 13, 2026
Thank you to the author, Elena Woods, for an advanced copy of Your Monster! Oh man, where do I even start! I devoured this in one sitting!
Okay, bear with me here… this is like:
365 Days➕Beauty and the Beast✖️Gone Girl➗ (sprinkle)Pride and Prejudice 🟰 Your Monster (but, like, super fucking dark and twisted) Yeah?
If that doesn’t make you wanna read it, I don’t know what will!
Perfect for fans of Deception Trilogy by Rina Kent, The Sweetest Oblivion by Danielle Lori, Ruthless Creatures by J.T. Geissinger, and Bound by Honor by Cora Reilly
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife" - Yes, that’s a Pride and Prejudice quote. But hey, it fits lol And it just so happens that Lily’s has no money, no connections. Her family is pushing her to find a husband because she is 25 years old and “almost past her expiration for marriage” (tell me that’s not some P&P shit!) I loved Lily, she’s not afraid to speak her mind. She’s intelligent and independent.
In comes mother fuckin’ Damiano Santaluccia, a 33 year old Mafia boss, head of the Boston Mafia known as Il Demonio (the Devil).
This man was P O S S E S S I V E from the moment he fucking laid eyes on his “little flower”. And I mean, hunt-her-to-the-ends-of-the-earth-and-then-burn-the-world-down P O S S E S S I V E. He is everything I love (and hate) in a toxic, controlling, possessive *sexy af* villain MMC.
“I have an offer for you.”
“Be my wife.”
The human trafficking side plot wasn’t too in-your-face. (But definitely still read the TW’s). It was definitely a SIDE with the romance and spice taking a front row seat! The supporting characters were top notch! The epilogue was beautiful. And the lil snippet teaser we get at the end is leaving me on the edge of my seat for the next book!
Insta-Lust
Jealousy
Touch Her & Die
Morally Black MMC
Dual POV
Predator x Prey
Obsession x Possession
Kidnapping
Age Gap
“And all I can do is smile, while my fingers itch for her throat and my heart wonders how much longer I can keep pretending I'm a man... when all I really want is to be her monster.”
"My name is Rosa, I am the cook,"
"Mr. Santaluccia requires your presence for breakfast"
'Requires my presence?' I stare at her. Is this some
twisted reenactment of Pride and Prejudice now?
Mr. Darcy politely summoning Elizabeth Bennet for tea, except with a side of kidnapping and psychological warfare?
"The real question is not whether
he loves you. It's whether you're brave enough to claim your place beside him, before he even knows he built it for you."
Okay, bear with me here… this is like:
365 Days➕Beauty and the Beast✖️Gone Girl➗ (sprinkle)Pride and Prejudice 🟰 Your Monster (but, like, super fucking dark and twisted) Yeah?
If that doesn’t make you wanna read it, I don’t know what will!
Perfect for fans of Deception Trilogy by Rina Kent, The Sweetest Oblivion by Danielle Lori, Ruthless Creatures by J.T. Geissinger, and Bound by Honor by Cora Reilly
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife" - Yes, that’s a Pride and Prejudice quote. But hey, it fits lol And it just so happens that Lily’s has no money, no connections. Her family is pushing her to find a husband because she is 25 years old and “almost past her expiration for marriage” (tell me that’s not some P&P shit!) I loved Lily, she’s not afraid to speak her mind. She’s intelligent and independent.
In comes mother fuckin’ Damiano Santaluccia, a 33 year old Mafia boss, head of the Boston Mafia known as Il Demonio (the Devil).
This man was P O S S E S S I V E from the moment he fucking laid eyes on his “little flower”. And I mean, hunt-her-to-the-ends-of-the-earth-and-then-burn-the-world-down P O S S E S S I V E. He is everything I love (and hate) in a toxic, controlling, possessive *sexy af* villain MMC.
“I have an offer for you.”
“Be my wife.”
The human trafficking side plot wasn’t too in-your-face. (But definitely still read the TW’s). It was definitely a SIDE with the romance and spice taking a front row seat! The supporting characters were top notch! The epilogue was beautiful. And the lil snippet teaser we get at the end is leaving me on the edge of my seat for the next book!
Insta-Lust
Jealousy
Touch Her & Die
Morally Black MMC
Dual POV
Predator x Prey
Obsession x Possession
Kidnapping
Age Gap
“And all I can do is smile, while my fingers itch for her throat and my heart wonders how much longer I can keep pretending I'm a man... when all I really want is to be her monster.”
"My name is Rosa, I am the cook,"
"Mr. Santaluccia requires your presence for breakfast"
'Requires my presence?' I stare at her. Is this some
twisted reenactment of Pride and Prejudice now?
Mr. Darcy politely summoning Elizabeth Bennet for tea, except with a side of kidnapping and psychological warfare?
"The real question is not whether
he loves you. It's whether you're brave enough to claim your place beside him, before he even knows he built it for you."
January 14, 2026
I am a dark romance Mafia addict and Elena Woods did not disappoint with this story. It fits perfectly into the Dark Romance genre with the MMC being possessive, obsessed, singular-minded with regard to the FMC and a leader of the Mafia in Boston. He wants Lily, end of subject. He tries to do it the sort of nice way and when she's not agreeable, not only does he go after her, he takes her back, changes their dynamic, doesn't budge an inch and then shows her exactly what it is she does to him. I really liked the supporting cast: Teo especially. The danger side plot Damiano was trying to manage spirals in the third act and I really enjoyed how this affected him.
Lily had her reasons for not wanting to be pigeon-holed into being a Mafia wife and when he explains to her what her refusal did to their relationship, I almost wanted to tell her "girl, you should have seen this coming." She's educated, a professional with a career, and has a hard past, I understood why she made the decisions she made, (Overly-independent, push back against the MMC, feisty heroines are not my cuppa, but the author approached Lily's reasons for not complying with believable reasons that sets the tone of the story.)
The last arc of the book is tense as heck. Damiano did not disappoint this reader who adores a MMC who is in a burn the world down frame of mind. I adored that he was never going to fail her. If you like morally gray mafia MMCs who are super OTT/JP, forced proximity, keeping her for himself, protectiveness that's off the charts, desire that drives him to show her exactly what she does to him, dark themes, and a heroine that overcomes trauma in the arms of her man, pick this book up and be prepared not to sleep.
I was honored to be an early reader for this debut author. I wish her great success!
Lily had her reasons for not wanting to be pigeon-holed into being a Mafia wife and when he explains to her what her refusal did to their relationship, I almost wanted to tell her "girl, you should have seen this coming." She's educated, a professional with a career, and has a hard past, I understood why she made the decisions she made, (Overly-independent, push back against the MMC, feisty heroines are not my cuppa, but the author approached Lily's reasons for not complying with believable reasons that sets the tone of the story.)
The last arc of the book is tense as heck. Damiano did not disappoint this reader who adores a MMC who is in a burn the world down frame of mind. I adored that he was never going to fail her. If you like morally gray mafia MMCs who are super OTT/JP, forced proximity, keeping her for himself, protectiveness that's off the charts, desire that drives him to show her exactly what she does to him, dark themes, and a heroine that overcomes trauma in the arms of her man, pick this book up and be prepared not to sleep.
I was honored to be an early reader for this debut author. I wish her great success!
January 13, 2026
In the vast scape of dark mafia romance, Elena Woods has created a world that less like the traditional love story and more like a high stake’s psychological tug-of-war…..and boy am I here for it! I was captivated from page one and couldn’t put the book down. I was on the edge of my seat page after page clinging to this beautifully mastered world.
This book explores the darker side of devotion, where love looks a lot like possession and the “villain” gets the girl. The beautiful brutality of Your Moster excels at the paradox of possession, the loss of will, and metamorphosis.
Let’s take a second to chat about the character dynamics. The morally grey MMC that leads more to black. A lethal predator who has one singular obsession….Lily. Lily isn’t just a “damsel”, she is a survivor who is exhausted the dark world that threatens to consume her. All she wants is a quiet life away from what her birth determined for her but, what happens when Damiano crashes into her world? What happens when your captor isn’t just your captor but your protector too?
Your Monster is a dark, unapologetic descent into an undeniably hot possessive romance. If you enjoy morally grey antiheroes, predator and prey dynamics, and gritty subplots that add pressure to the spicy romantic tension then absolutely go get this! No seriously don’t walk….run!
Your Monster ask is a cage still a cage if the person keeping the key is the only hope you have of staying alive? It’s haunting and provocative in ways that stay with you long after the final page!
This book explores the darker side of devotion, where love looks a lot like possession and the “villain” gets the girl. The beautiful brutality of Your Moster excels at the paradox of possession, the loss of will, and metamorphosis.
Let’s take a second to chat about the character dynamics. The morally grey MMC that leads more to black. A lethal predator who has one singular obsession….Lily. Lily isn’t just a “damsel”, she is a survivor who is exhausted the dark world that threatens to consume her. All she wants is a quiet life away from what her birth determined for her but, what happens when Damiano crashes into her world? What happens when your captor isn’t just your captor but your protector too?
Your Monster is a dark, unapologetic descent into an undeniably hot possessive romance. If you enjoy morally grey antiheroes, predator and prey dynamics, and gritty subplots that add pressure to the spicy romantic tension then absolutely go get this! No seriously don’t walk….run!
Your Monster ask is a cage still a cage if the person keeping the key is the only hope you have of staying alive? It’s haunting and provocative in ways that stay with you long after the final page!
January 14, 2026
ARC Review – 4 Stars
By the halfway point, Your Monster delivers a dark, gripping mafia romance that leans heavily into obsession, danger, and emotional tension. Lily Bianchi is a resilient, intelligent orphan who has spent her life surviving quietly on the outskirts of a world she never chose. Watching her navigate power, wealth, and violence while holding onto her independence gives the story its emotional core.
Damiano, the Boston mafia boss known as Il Demonio, is unapologetically dark, commanding, and morally grey. His obsession with Lily is intense and consuming, blurring the line between protection and possession. While undeniably magnetic, his over-the-top alpha presence may not work for every reader—but for fans of obsessive, “touch her and die” MMCs, he delivers exactly what the genre promises.
The plot unfolds with strong tension and high stakes, blending slow-burn chemistry, forced proximity, and danger-driven intimacy. While some moments linger longer than necessary on internal monologue or familiar tropes, the emotional pull and escalating conflict keep the pages turning. The supporting cast adds intrigue, even if a few characters could be more fully developed.
Overall, Your Monster is a solid, engaging read for fans of dark mafia romance and morally grey heroes. It doesn’t reinvent the genre, but it executes its themes with confidence and intensity. By this point, you’re fully invested in Lily and Damiano’s dynamic and eager to see how far their obsession—and loyalty—will take them.
By the halfway point, Your Monster delivers a dark, gripping mafia romance that leans heavily into obsession, danger, and emotional tension. Lily Bianchi is a resilient, intelligent orphan who has spent her life surviving quietly on the outskirts of a world she never chose. Watching her navigate power, wealth, and violence while holding onto her independence gives the story its emotional core.
Damiano, the Boston mafia boss known as Il Demonio, is unapologetically dark, commanding, and morally grey. His obsession with Lily is intense and consuming, blurring the line between protection and possession. While undeniably magnetic, his over-the-top alpha presence may not work for every reader—but for fans of obsessive, “touch her and die” MMCs, he delivers exactly what the genre promises.
The plot unfolds with strong tension and high stakes, blending slow-burn chemistry, forced proximity, and danger-driven intimacy. While some moments linger longer than necessary on internal monologue or familiar tropes, the emotional pull and escalating conflict keep the pages turning. The supporting cast adds intrigue, even if a few characters could be more fully developed.
Overall, Your Monster is a solid, engaging read for fans of dark mafia romance and morally grey heroes. It doesn’t reinvent the genre, but it executes its themes with confidence and intensity. By this point, you’re fully invested in Lily and Damiano’s dynamic and eager to see how far their obsession—and loyalty—will take them.
February 12, 2026
4⭐️
“Because she is the light, she is pure, like a white flower blooming in the middle of a battlefield.”
Before I get into my review I want to stress that this is a DARK Mafia Romance. I’m not seeing a lot of reviews that are talking about trigger warnings and in my opinion there is some big ones. Some trigger warnings are but are not limited to: sexual assault (by mmc in my opinion), ptsd, abuse, abduction, gun/knife violence.
Okay now to my review!! I actually really enjoyed this book, the only reason I gave it 4 stars is because morally I feel I cannot give a book with SA 5 stars.
The level of obsessive possession from the MMC was INSANE but I LOVED IT. Damiano is exactly what you think of when you think of an obsessed posessive mafia boss. He is scary, mean, DARK, but he would do anything for Lily (whether she wants him to or not). She is the light to his darkness. Lily however is a spitfire which I wish we got to see more of. His darkness doesn’t scare her, infact it makes her want more of him. I would give the spice level a 3.5/4, definitely spicy but not too spicy!!
The side characters are SO good!! Teo and Luc were my FAVE. I swear I was laughing at least 90% of the time they were in a scene. They may be Damiano’s underlings but they are definitely not scared of him.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait for the next one to come out! Thank you to Elena Woods for sending me a copy of this great work, congratulations on your debut published book! 🩷
“Because she is the light, she is pure, like a white flower blooming in the middle of a battlefield.”
Before I get into my review I want to stress that this is a DARK Mafia Romance. I’m not seeing a lot of reviews that are talking about trigger warnings and in my opinion there is some big ones. Some trigger warnings are but are not limited to: sexual assault (by mmc in my opinion), ptsd, abuse, abduction, gun/knife violence.
Okay now to my review!! I actually really enjoyed this book, the only reason I gave it 4 stars is because morally I feel I cannot give a book with SA 5 stars.
The level of obsessive possession from the MMC was INSANE but I LOVED IT. Damiano is exactly what you think of when you think of an obsessed posessive mafia boss. He is scary, mean, DARK, but he would do anything for Lily (whether she wants him to or not). She is the light to his darkness. Lily however is a spitfire which I wish we got to see more of. His darkness doesn’t scare her, infact it makes her want more of him. I would give the spice level a 3.5/4, definitely spicy but not too spicy!!
The side characters are SO good!! Teo and Luc were my FAVE. I swear I was laughing at least 90% of the time they were in a scene. They may be Damiano’s underlings but they are definitely not scared of him.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait for the next one to come out! Thank you to Elena Woods for sending me a copy of this great work, congratulations on your debut published book! 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
🖤 My review for Your Monster 🖤
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
"Where are you, little flower? I swear to God, I will burn the world down to bring you back"
This book had everything I want in a good, captivating mafia book! From start to finish I was absolutely hooked!!
The plot, spice, writing, characters and development made this book a 5⭐ read!
AND It's Elenas first EVER published book!! 🤯 I'm mind blown!
The book is 275 pages long and I ate it all up in one sitting! I'm not even sorry 😂 it was THAT good!
Lily never wanted a place in the mafia. Growing up with only her mother she was sheltered from that world until her mother sadly passed away and her father summoned her. Sending a car and driver to pick her up.
When Lily was at a big party, being out with her father, stepmother and stepsister she stumbled onto a gruesome murder. When she sees Damiano stand there with a bloody knife in hand and a body on the floor she runs! The one thing she doesn't know is that Damiano likes to hunt!
He becomes obsessed with having her and even though she flees a second time he still hunts her down to have her by his side.
This book is filled with heat and spice action and character you'll absolutely love!!
A million thanks to Elena for giving me this book as an ARC!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
"Where are you, little flower? I swear to God, I will burn the world down to bring you back"
This book had everything I want in a good, captivating mafia book! From start to finish I was absolutely hooked!!
The plot, spice, writing, characters and development made this book a 5⭐ read!
AND It's Elenas first EVER published book!! 🤯 I'm mind blown!
The book is 275 pages long and I ate it all up in one sitting! I'm not even sorry 😂 it was THAT good!
Lily never wanted a place in the mafia. Growing up with only her mother she was sheltered from that world until her mother sadly passed away and her father summoned her. Sending a car and driver to pick her up.
When Lily was at a big party, being out with her father, stepmother and stepsister she stumbled onto a gruesome murder. When she sees Damiano stand there with a bloody knife in hand and a body on the floor she runs! The one thing she doesn't know is that Damiano likes to hunt!
He becomes obsessed with having her and even though she flees a second time he still hunts her down to have her by his side.
This book is filled with heat and spice action and character you'll absolutely love!!
A million thanks to Elena for giving me this book as an ARC!
January 28, 2026
I took a little break from mafia romances to explore other genres, and this book was the perfect one to pull me right back in.
I will always have a soft spot for mafia romance, especially when you mix in arranged marriage and forced proximity. There’s just something so satisfying about watching a heroine try her absolute hardest to hate the hero… and slowly fall for him anyway. That tension and emotional push-and-pull gets me every time.
Lily and Damiano were incredible together. Their dynamic truly gave “king and queen” energy. Lily’s past made her journey even more emotional, and it was impossible not to root for her happiness. What I loved most was how the he consistently showed up for her, always trying to give her the care, stability, and devotion she deserved—even when she wasn’t ready to accept it. Their relationship growth felt powerful, romantic, and deeply earned.
My only complaint? I wasn’t ready to let them go. I finished the book still wanting more of their life together.
I’m so grateful to the author for sending me this ARC, even if I ended up reading it after release. It was absolutely worth the wait and reminded me exactly why I love this genre so much.
I will always have a soft spot for mafia romance, especially when you mix in arranged marriage and forced proximity. There’s just something so satisfying about watching a heroine try her absolute hardest to hate the hero… and slowly fall for him anyway. That tension and emotional push-and-pull gets me every time.
Lily and Damiano were incredible together. Their dynamic truly gave “king and queen” energy. Lily’s past made her journey even more emotional, and it was impossible not to root for her happiness. What I loved most was how the he consistently showed up for her, always trying to give her the care, stability, and devotion she deserved—even when she wasn’t ready to accept it. Their relationship growth felt powerful, romantic, and deeply earned.
My only complaint? I wasn’t ready to let them go. I finished the book still wanting more of their life together.
I’m so grateful to the author for sending me this ARC, even if I ended up reading it after release. It was absolutely worth the wait and reminded me exactly why I love this genre so much.
January 15, 2026
The writing was good. The plot centered around Damiano’s possession of Lily. The danger, power, control and obsession provides all the making of a perfect mafia story. The problem for me was that I couldn’t really connect with the characters. I did however, enjoy the dual POV. I kept wanting Damiano to show his softer side even if just when he was alone with Lily. I did love the way he immediately went after her father when he hit her and practically burned the world down to save her from her captors. That man is protective over what’s his. In the beginning I liked Lily but about a third of the way in I just lost respect for her. It felt like she just gave up even though she didn’t choose this life she decided she would just go along with it. Damiano is everything I hate in a man, dark, obsessive and controlling. It doesn’t matter at all what she wants. His love is possessive. This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys mafia, power, control, instant attraction and touch her and 💀 MMC. I would suggest to read the trigger warnings before reading.
January 22, 2026
Lily wanted normal life being a vet and one day owning an office until she was at wrong place at a wrong time. She witnessed a murder while attending a gala and Damiano aka "Dark" captures her and threatens to marry her.
Lily didn't want the life of dark world so she decides to run and almost make it until she is captured and becomes his captive. She wants to get away but he is always there to keep her. He becomes a monster and she can't get away.
Damiano only has eyes for Lily. She is everything to him except he won't show his emotion nor affection to her. He will protect her until his last breath but she doesn't know yet.
This wasn't what I was expecting. It was great from beginning to the end. I have been reading several dark romance at the same time and this is one was the best. Damiano seems like a typical mafia boss but he only has eyes for her and he will burn the whole city to protect her. He is fierce protector that I love in MMC and strong FMC who fights until the very end.
This is a first time I am reading this author and I can't wait to read her next book. Great start to the series.
Thanks to the Author for the ARC.
Lily didn't want the life of dark world so she decides to run and almost make it until she is captured and becomes his captive. She wants to get away but he is always there to keep her. He becomes a monster and she can't get away.
Damiano only has eyes for Lily. She is everything to him except he won't show his emotion nor affection to her. He will protect her until his last breath but she doesn't know yet.
This wasn't what I was expecting. It was great from beginning to the end. I have been reading several dark romance at the same time and this is one was the best. Damiano seems like a typical mafia boss but he only has eyes for her and he will burn the whole city to protect her. He is fierce protector that I love in MMC and strong FMC who fights until the very end.
This is a first time I am reading this author and I can't wait to read her next book. Great start to the series.
Thanks to the Author for the ARC.
January 30, 2026
Your Monster reminded me exactly why I fell in love with dark romance in the first place. That post-book high is REAL. Elena Woods gave us a monster who doesn’t hesitate, a story that doesn’t drag, and a dark romance that feels classic in the best way. The plot pulls you in immediately with Lily accidentally witnessing a murder, setting off Damiano’s obsession and a dangerous game of claiming, running, and recapture, all while a human trafficking ring operates in the shadows and raises the stakes in a way that feels personal and urgent. Damiano is dangerous, dominant, obsessive, unapologetic, and ruthless, while Lily’s fears and resistance are rooted in trauma and survival and wanting freedom from a life she didn't chose, making their relation intense, messy, and consuming. The balance between darkness, emotion, danger, and spice is perfect. The fact that this is her debut is wild. Absolutely wild. And with the way she teased the Boston Blood world and its side characters, she clearly knows what she’s doing. Elena Woods is officially on my auto-read list.
February 14, 2026
Your Monster by Elena Woods was such an addictive dark romance read for me. From the very beginning, I was completely hooked — the chemistry between the MMC and MFC was fire right from the outset. Their dynamic had that perfect push-pull tension that kept me turning pages because you never quite knew how far things would go next.
I really liked both main characters. The MMC had that dangerous, magnetic presence you expect from a dark mafia romance, while the MFC held her own in a way that made their interactions intense and engaging rather than repetitive. Their relationship felt chaotic in the best way — messy, emotional, and full of tension.
The plot kept a strong pace throughout and I never found myself bored. There was always something happening, whether it was emotional conflict, suspense, or relationship development, which made it an easy book to binge.
This is definitely a darker romance with power imbalances and morally grey characters, so it won’t be for everyone, but if you enjoy obsessive, high-tension relationships and a dangerous atmosphere, this one delivers.
Overall, a gripping start to the series and I’m really looking forward to seeing where the story goes next.
I really liked both main characters. The MMC had that dangerous, magnetic presence you expect from a dark mafia romance, while the MFC held her own in a way that made their interactions intense and engaging rather than repetitive. Their relationship felt chaotic in the best way — messy, emotional, and full of tension.
The plot kept a strong pace throughout and I never found myself bored. There was always something happening, whether it was emotional conflict, suspense, or relationship development, which made it an easy book to binge.
This is definitely a darker romance with power imbalances and morally grey characters, so it won’t be for everyone, but if you enjoy obsessive, high-tension relationships and a dangerous atmosphere, this one delivers.
Overall, a gripping start to the series and I’m really looking forward to seeing where the story goes next.
February 11, 2026
This is the first novel I have read from this author and I will definitely read more.
Lily knows what living in a Mafia family is like, after her mother dies she has to live with her father, head of one of the Boston mafia families but she wants out. She wants her own life running a vet practice.
Her well planned life is turned upside down when she finds herself crossing paths with the mafia boss Damiano. He quickly becomes obsessed and no matter how many times she tries to say no and runs he finds her!
I am not going to give too many spoilers but the book had dark romance and intrigue.
This is the start of a series and I really want to read Erins story next.
There could be triggers for some so please read the trigger warnings.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lily knows what living in a Mafia family is like, after her mother dies she has to live with her father, head of one of the Boston mafia families but she wants out. She wants her own life running a vet practice.
Her well planned life is turned upside down when she finds herself crossing paths with the mafia boss Damiano. He quickly becomes obsessed and no matter how many times she tries to say no and runs he finds her!
I am not going to give too many spoilers but the book had dark romance and intrigue.
This is the start of a series and I really want to read Erins story next.
There could be triggers for some so please read the trigger warnings.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 12, 2026
✨ ARC Review | Your Monster by Elena Woods ✨
This ARC had me hooked from page one—I couldn’t finish it in one sitting, but I desperately wanted to.
A dark mafia romance following Damiano, the Don of all Boston families, and Lily, his total opposite. He’s everything we love in a morally dark MMC, and she’s light, strong, independent, with a heart that doesn’t belong anywhere near his world… and yet 👀
Expect good girl vibes, a touch of bondage, dom/sub tension, open-door spice that’ll have you sweating, and that elite “touch her and die” energy.
Basically? All my favourite tropes done right.
First book in the series and I’m already obsessed—bring on the next one.
📖 Releases TOMORROW: 13 Jan 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ solid 4 stars
This ARC had me hooked from page one—I couldn’t finish it in one sitting, but I desperately wanted to.
A dark mafia romance following Damiano, the Don of all Boston families, and Lily, his total opposite. He’s everything we love in a morally dark MMC, and she’s light, strong, independent, with a heart that doesn’t belong anywhere near his world… and yet 👀
Expect good girl vibes, a touch of bondage, dom/sub tension, open-door spice that’ll have you sweating, and that elite “touch her and die” energy.
Basically? All my favourite tropes done right.
First book in the series and I’m already obsessed—bring on the next one.
📖 Releases TOMORROW: 13 Jan 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ solid 4 stars
January 14, 2026
3.5 stars. Your Monster is a dark mafia romance, and while it isn’t the darkest out there, it definitely has some intense moments. I won’t lie—one scene, for me, went a little beyond dubious consent. However, if you’re okay with the content warnings, at its heart, this story is surprisingly sweet and contains a lot of the well-loved dark romance tropes. This is two characters from different worlds learning to love each other and finding a place in one another’s hearts. If you’re a mafia romance lover, this may very well be your next favourite read.
January 15, 2026
This book is a quick read, it really hooked me in the beginning. I liked the overall disposition of the characters.
I got toward the middle and was just thrown off. I’m not sure why, I liked the book in general but I did struggle to get through it. I feel like “Dark’s” dialogue wasn’t as masculine as I was expecting him to speak.
The things “Dark” did would have put him in prison if he wasn’t a rich man🤣
Overall, it was a good read, props to the author for hitting a lot of different tropes! I can’t wait to see where the rest of the series goes!
I got toward the middle and was just thrown off. I’m not sure why, I liked the book in general but I did struggle to get through it. I feel like “Dark’s” dialogue wasn’t as masculine as I was expecting him to speak.
The things “Dark” did would have put him in prison if he wasn’t a rich man🤣
Overall, it was a good read, props to the author for hitting a lot of different tropes! I can’t wait to see where the rest of the series goes!
February 10, 2026
Your Monster is a fast-paced mafia romance featuring an obsessive, possessive, touch-her-and-💀 MMC, Damiano, and Lilly — his flower with thorns of her own.
The attraction between them is instant, which may not suit all readers. Damiano’s obsession begins the moment he lays eyes on her, while Lilly grapples with conflicting emotions as their dynamic unfolds.
This story delivers a complete HEA, along with a tease of what’s to come with other characters, leaving me curious about where the series may go next. I can’t wait to see what Elena has coming up.
The attraction between them is instant, which may not suit all readers. Damiano’s obsession begins the moment he lays eyes on her, while Lilly grapples with conflicting emotions as their dynamic unfolds.
This story delivers a complete HEA, along with a tease of what’s to come with other characters, leaving me curious about where the series may go next. I can’t wait to see what Elena has coming up.
January 14, 2026
This was an excellent dark mafia romance. From page one it pulled me in and held me captive. I wanted so badly to finish this in one sitting, but was unable to. I loved the way Damiano was so protective of Lily. She was his whether she wanted to be or not. I love his touch her and di3 mentality. And Lilly was such an awesome character as well. This book takes you on a ride and decides when you’re finished. It was hot, chaotic, and really kept you engaged.
January 19, 2026
I flew through Your Monster. The story was so addictive that I genuinely couldn’t put it down.
Lily’s internal monologue was one of my favorite parts—it’s exactly how I imagine a mafia daughter would think: calculated, conflicted, and strong-willed. It made her character feel real and compelling.
And Damiano… I loved him. His possessive nature added so much tension and intensity, and I ate up every scene he was in.
Dark, captivating, and unforgettable.
The girl with the gorgeous gown!!!
Lily’s internal monologue was one of my favorite parts—it’s exactly how I imagine a mafia daughter would think: calculated, conflicted, and strong-willed. It made her character feel real and compelling.
And Damiano… I loved him. His possessive nature added so much tension and intensity, and I ate up every scene he was in.
Dark, captivating, and unforgettable.
The girl with the gorgeous gown!!!
February 20, 2026
I read this as an arc. The writing was a bit awkward, though that may just be a writing style preference. The plot was a bit predictable and I would have liked more character development. I would have liked there to be more overall. It wasn’t amazing, but it wasn’t awful either. This is a debut novel, and the series has potential. Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and I will definitely be reading the next one. From the epilogue, it sounds like the next one will be interesting.
February 20, 2026
Obsessive, possessive, and downright dangerous. Domiano and Lily play a game of cat and mouse, and with dangers of the Mafia and the threats of harm to his little flower, Domiano will burn the world for her.
He is her Monster, to keep her darkness, and she is the anchor to keep him grounded.
Their story is a whirl wind of drama. A fast-paced storyline with dark themes, it's a great read for any dark romance lovers!
I can't wait to read more from this author!
He is her Monster, to keep her darkness, and she is the anchor to keep him grounded.
Their story is a whirl wind of drama. A fast-paced storyline with dark themes, it's a great read for any dark romance lovers!
I can't wait to read more from this author!
February 20, 2026
This book was so good I read it in one sitting. I hooked me from the beginning and it just kept me going. The story was great and the spicy scenes were Amazing! Damiano was dark and dangerous but became the caring man Lilly needed in the end. Lilly was a strong woman in a world of dangerous men and found her man who didn’t want to just own her but have her at his side as an equal. I can’t wait for the next book in the series and hope to see more of Lily and Damiano.
January 15, 2026
Lily and Damiano are opposites in the best way. She does everything she can to avoid him, but he is determined to make her his.
Witty banter, electric chemistry and an MMC who is instantly obsessed with her, this story is a steamy mafia romance that does not disappoint.
And the way he softens just for her… 🔥🔥
I can’t wait for the next instalment of this series!
Witty banter, electric chemistry and an MMC who is instantly obsessed with her, this story is a steamy mafia romance that does not disappoint.
And the way he softens just for her… 🔥🔥
I can’t wait for the next instalment of this series!
January 18, 2026
This one kicks off the Boston Blood series. Damiano is the Don of the Boston families and Lily is the object of his desire. She's a strong and independent FMC who's light and all heart. There is a bit of bondage, dom/sub with open spice that's lovely "to watch". Can't wait to see how the series evolves. Great start!
January 21, 2026
This steamy and oh so spicy dark romance novel took me on an exhilarating ride! Nothing more attractive than when a man says “does it look like I want anyone else?” and Damiano is that man! My ultimate favorite books to read are mafia romance and this book definitely did not disappoint! The spice level, chefs kiss 🤌🏻 My only complaint is I don’t have a Damiano of my own.
February 12, 2026
Lily and Damiano had me laughing and blushing so much in this book. The spice. The plot. It’s a yes yes yes always for me
“Let me,”
“Let me be your monster.”
“Let me be your vengeance,”
“Your darkness. You don’t have to carry this.”
MHM MHM. ✨OBSESSED I’m as obsessed with them as Damiano is with Lily ✨
p.s. he gets a secret tattoo of her👀✨
“Let me,”
“Let me be your monster.”
“Let me be your vengeance,”
“Your darkness. You don’t have to carry this.”
MHM MHM. ✨OBSESSED I’m as obsessed with them as Damiano is with Lily ✨
p.s. he gets a secret tattoo of her👀✨
February 18, 2026
3.5⭐ Captive romances are always a gamble for me. The opening chapter had me completely hooked, but I wasn’t fully sold on the romance. It leaned heavily into insta-lust, which isn’t my favorite trope, and I would’ve loved to see more gradual development between the MCs. The plot, though, was fantastic—interesting, fast-paced, and hard to put down.
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