What do you think?
Rate this book
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.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2026
3 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
April 1, 2026
4.5- I wish this was longer! It was so good, it had me hooked from the very beginning. I could not stop thinking about it. It was so fun watching Lily challenge Damiano. Damiano is your morally gray man who is head of the mafia in Boston. He has touch her and die vibes and the possessive and obsessive traits he displays for Lily are fire. We get moments of internal dialouge with Lily and Damiano that provide humor to the book. The spice, the plot, the violence, the characters, all great! Can't wait for book 2
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! 🎉
April 12, 2026
I’m questioning my morals and sanity as I absolutely loved this dark mafia romance! The MMC is a walking red flag; but who doesn’t love a morally corrupt, dangerous man who is willing to burn the world down for his ‘‘little flower’? The instant attraction and infatuation, where he falls first!? I was hooked and gobbling up this story.
I loved the dynamic between both characters; a powerful MMC, used to getting what he wants, paired with a strong, stubborn fmc who doesn’t instantly submit or swoon like all the other girls he’s used to. I love the way this story plays out and the character development you get to see. I cannot wait for book 2!
Thank you so much Elena Woods for letting me ARC read this rollercoaster of a book!!😆❣️
I loved the dynamic between both characters; a powerful MMC, used to getting what he wants, paired with a strong, stubborn fmc who doesn’t instantly submit or swoon like all the other girls he’s used to. I love the way this story plays out and the character development you get to see. I cannot wait for book 2!
Thank you so much Elena Woods for letting me ARC read this rollercoaster of a book!!😆❣️
February 26, 2026
I almost read this in one sitting, and honestly, that says everything.
“Your Monster” is a captivating dark mafia romance that hooked me from the very first chapter. The intrigue is immediate, the tension is sharp, and there’s a constant undercurrent of danger that makes it impossible to put down.
This story leans into its darker elements unapologetically, but what I loved most is how beautifully the light shines through. Amidst the violence and power struggles, there’s a romantic thread that feels genuine, emotional, and deeply compelling. The balance between darkness and tenderness is handled so well.
The pacing is one of the strongest aspects of this book. It moves quickly without ever feeling rushed, and there are no unnecessary details weighing it down. Every scene feels purposeful, adding either to the tension, the world-building, or the emotional depth of the characters.
Lily and Damiano are richly developed and incredibly engaging. Their dynamic is layered, intense, complex, and magnetic. You can feel the chemistry, the stakes, and the emotional pull between them in every interaction.
Overall, this was a wonderful read and one that kept me glued to the screen from start to finish. If you love dark mafia romance with strong characters, emotional depth, and addictive pacing, this one absolutely deserves a spot on your TBR.
“Your Monster” is a captivating dark mafia romance that hooked me from the very first chapter. The intrigue is immediate, the tension is sharp, and there’s a constant undercurrent of danger that makes it impossible to put down.
This story leans into its darker elements unapologetically, but what I loved most is how beautifully the light shines through. Amidst the violence and power struggles, there’s a romantic thread that feels genuine, emotional, and deeply compelling. The balance between darkness and tenderness is handled so well.
The pacing is one of the strongest aspects of this book. It moves quickly without ever feeling rushed, and there are no unnecessary details weighing it down. Every scene feels purposeful, adding either to the tension, the world-building, or the emotional depth of the characters.
Lily and Damiano are richly developed and incredibly engaging. Their dynamic is layered, intense, complex, and magnetic. You can feel the chemistry, the stakes, and the emotional pull between them in every interaction.
Overall, this was a wonderful read and one that kept me glued to the screen from start to finish. If you love dark mafia romance with strong characters, emotional depth, and addictive pacing, this one absolutely deserves a spot on your TBR.
March 14, 2026
"Little Flower, anywhere you bloom is a place I will gladly worship."
Insert swooning here, such a good mafia romance. Lilly has grown up surviving and making moves for herself. She is strong and wants a life where she is seen and can focus on things she is passionate about. Damiano is the don and gets what he wants. BUT who falls first?!
Your Monster has a fast to medium pace with a world that's easy to absorb. The characters are like-able and the story contains some character development. The semi slow burn, tension and way the love between the FMC and MMC unfolds is great. There is spice but it just enhances the story to me.
If you love possessive and brooding mafia men, check out Your Monster. Damiano may just be your next book boyfriend!
Insert swooning here, such a good mafia romance. Lilly has grown up surviving and making moves for herself. She is strong and wants a life where she is seen and can focus on things she is passionate about. Damiano is the don and gets what he wants. BUT who falls first?!
Your Monster has a fast to medium pace with a world that's easy to absorb. The characters are like-able and the story contains some character development. The semi slow burn, tension and way the love between the FMC and MMC unfolds is great. There is spice but it just enhances the story to me.
If you love possessive and brooding mafia men, check out Your Monster. Damiano may just be your next book boyfriend!
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.
April 23, 2026
Absolutely loved this book and can't wait for the next! Damiano is protective, and loves in a quiet way that's perfectly him.
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.
April 15, 2026
Little flower and Dark.
The obsession is instant for Damiano and Lily had no problem making him work for it. She is feisty, clever, smart, and ramps up his obsessive nature with her attitude. Their dynamic grows into something truly beautiful when all the care underneath their actions comes to light. I love how Lily protects him and defends him and their commitment and loyalty to one another. Overall great book. Had me laughing, shocked, and feeling all the spice. Cannot wait to see the next book with Erin… let the hacking games begin!!
The obsession is instant for Damiano and Lily had no problem making him work for it. She is feisty, clever, smart, and ramps up his obsessive nature with her attitude. Their dynamic grows into something truly beautiful when all the care underneath their actions comes to light. I love how Lily protects him and defends him and their commitment and loyalty to one another. Overall great book. Had me laughing, shocked, and feeling all the spice. Cannot wait to see the next book with Erin… let the hacking games begin!!
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!
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!!!
April 9, 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.
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."
April 23, 2026
I absolutely devoured Your Monster by Elena Woods. This book had me hooked from the very first chapter and did not let go. If you love dark mafia romance with obsession, tension, and that delicious push and pull between danger and desire, this one delivers on every level.
Lily completely pulled me in. She is not your typical mafia heroine and that is what made her feel so real. She has spent her whole life trying to stay invisible, trying to escape a world she never chose, and you can feel that desperation for something normal. Watching her get pulled right back into that darkness, especially in the most intense way possible, had me glued to every page.
And then there is Damiano. Wow. He is everything you want in a dark romance antihero. Ruthless, possessive, completely unhinged when it comes to Lily, but still layered in a way that makes you understand him even when you probably should not. The nickname Il Demonio fits him perfectly because he truly walks that line between man and monster. The obsession, the control, the way he refuses to let her go… it is intense, consuming, and honestly addictive to read.
The chemistry between them is electric. Every interaction feels charged with tension, whether it is fear, anger, or something much deeper building underneath. The dynamic of captor and protector creates this constant emotional conflict that kept me completely invested. You are always questioning where the line is and whether Lily is losing herself or discovering a version of herself she never allowed before.
I also loved that there was more going on beyond just their relationship. The storyline with the human trafficking ring added depth and stakes that made everything feel even more urgent and personal. It was not just about obsession, it was about survival, power, and control in a world that does not forgive weakness.
This book is dark, emotional, and full of tension in the best way. It is one of those reads where you keep telling yourself just one more chapter and suddenly it is 2am and you are still turning pages.
If you are into morally gray men, obsessive love, and dark mafia vibes with high stakes and intense emotions, you need this on your TBR immediately.
Five stars without a doubt. I am already counting down for the next book in this series.
Lily completely pulled me in. She is not your typical mafia heroine and that is what made her feel so real. She has spent her whole life trying to stay invisible, trying to escape a world she never chose, and you can feel that desperation for something normal. Watching her get pulled right back into that darkness, especially in the most intense way possible, had me glued to every page.
And then there is Damiano. Wow. He is everything you want in a dark romance antihero. Ruthless, possessive, completely unhinged when it comes to Lily, but still layered in a way that makes you understand him even when you probably should not. The nickname Il Demonio fits him perfectly because he truly walks that line between man and monster. The obsession, the control, the way he refuses to let her go… it is intense, consuming, and honestly addictive to read.
The chemistry between them is electric. Every interaction feels charged with tension, whether it is fear, anger, or something much deeper building underneath. The dynamic of captor and protector creates this constant emotional conflict that kept me completely invested. You are always questioning where the line is and whether Lily is losing herself or discovering a version of herself she never allowed before.
I also loved that there was more going on beyond just their relationship. The storyline with the human trafficking ring added depth and stakes that made everything feel even more urgent and personal. It was not just about obsession, it was about survival, power, and control in a world that does not forgive weakness.
This book is dark, emotional, and full of tension in the best way. It is one of those reads where you keep telling yourself just one more chapter and suddenly it is 2am and you are still turning pages.
If you are into morally gray men, obsessive love, and dark mafia vibes with high stakes and intense emotions, you need this on your TBR immediately.
Five stars without a doubt. I am already counting down for the next book in this series.
March 14, 2026
Your Monster by Elena Woods dives straight into the dark romance genre with a story that is intense, obsessive, and morally complicated. The novel follows Lily Bianchi, a woman who has spent her life on the edges of Boston’s mafia world. As the daughter of a mistress, she has never truly belonged anywhere and has always longed for a quiet life far removed from violence. That fragile hope shatters the night she accidentally witnesses a murder and meets Damiano, the ruthless mafia boss known as Il Demonio.
From the moment Lily sees him standing over a body with blood on his hands, the story locks into a dangerous dynamic. Damiano becomes fascinated with her in a way that is both terrifying and magnetic. His obsession drives much of the tension in the novel, creating a relationship that blurs the line between captor and protector. The story leans heavily into the dark romance trope of possession and control, which will appeal to readers who enjoy intense, morally gray characters and high emotional stakes.
Lily’s struggle is at the heart of the narrative. She spends much of the book fighting the pull of a world she never wanted, while also confronting the unsettling attraction she feels toward the man who embodies everything she fears. Her internal conflict gives the story depth, especially as she questions whether surrendering to the darkness means losing herself or discovering a hidden strength within it.
Damiano is written as a classic dark romance antihero. He is dangerous, ruthless, and utterly consumed by his fixation on Lily. Yet the story also frames him as someone who believes he is protecting what belongs to him. That tension between menace and devotion is what fuels the book’s central relationship and keeps the emotional stakes high.
Overall, Your Monster is a gripping dark romance filled with obsession, danger, and emotional turmoil. Readers who enjoy mafia settings, possessive antiheroes, and stories that explore the pull between fear and desire will likely find themselves drawn into Lily and Damiano’s volatile world. The novel embraces the darkness of its premise while asking whether love can survive in a place where power and control rule everything.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
From the moment Lily sees him standing over a body with blood on his hands, the story locks into a dangerous dynamic. Damiano becomes fascinated with her in a way that is both terrifying and magnetic. His obsession drives much of the tension in the novel, creating a relationship that blurs the line between captor and protector. The story leans heavily into the dark romance trope of possession and control, which will appeal to readers who enjoy intense, morally gray characters and high emotional stakes.
Lily’s struggle is at the heart of the narrative. She spends much of the book fighting the pull of a world she never wanted, while also confronting the unsettling attraction she feels toward the man who embodies everything she fears. Her internal conflict gives the story depth, especially as she questions whether surrendering to the darkness means losing herself or discovering a hidden strength within it.
Damiano is written as a classic dark romance antihero. He is dangerous, ruthless, and utterly consumed by his fixation on Lily. Yet the story also frames him as someone who believes he is protecting what belongs to him. That tension between menace and devotion is what fuels the book’s central relationship and keeps the emotional stakes high.
Overall, Your Monster is a gripping dark romance filled with obsession, danger, and emotional turmoil. Readers who enjoy mafia settings, possessive antiheroes, and stories that explore the pull between fear and desire will likely find themselves drawn into Lily and Damiano’s volatile world. The novel embraces the darkness of its premise while asking whether love can survive in a place where power and control rule everything.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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 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! 🩷
February 25, 2026
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was an addiction: the good, the bad, and the ugly. I finished it faster than I’ve read any book before… I needed this book more than I needed oxygen. [Nods to the author, since this is close to a quote from the book in a non-plagiaristic way!]
Weirdly, this book reminded me of the Phantom of the Opera. Like Christine, our FMC Lily is torn between the light and the darkness... but in modern day Boston with mafia, and violence, and guns. [oh my!] And like the Phantom, our MMC Damiano is about as morally dark as it gets without managing to be pure evil. But unlike the Phantom, he’s HOT. [So sorry to the great Gerard Butler; you wore a mask in the movie, so your hotness score took a hit. I don’t make the rules.]
There’s some spice in this one, y’all. And it’s not always clearly consensual, so check trigger warnings before reading, please!
What can I say? I am a sucker for the allure of darkness, especially when I’m safe and cozy in a well lit room, reading from distance. I enjoy morally gray/dark love interests. And I love stories when one of the central conflicts is that choice between light and dark.
If you like those things, too, then read this book ASAP.
Also, the end of the book sets up the next one perfectly - with no cliffhangers! I need book 2 right now please and thank you.
This book was an addiction: the good, the bad, and the ugly. I finished it faster than I’ve read any book before… I needed this book more than I needed oxygen. [Nods to the author, since this is close to a quote from the book in a non-plagiaristic way!]
Weirdly, this book reminded me of the Phantom of the Opera. Like Christine, our FMC Lily is torn between the light and the darkness... but in modern day Boston with mafia, and violence, and guns. [oh my!] And like the Phantom, our MMC Damiano is about as morally dark as it gets without managing to be pure evil. But unlike the Phantom, he’s HOT. [So sorry to the great Gerard Butler; you wore a mask in the movie, so your hotness score took a hit. I don’t make the rules.]
There’s some spice in this one, y’all. And it’s not always clearly consensual, so check trigger warnings before reading, please!
What can I say? I am a sucker for the allure of darkness, especially when I’m safe and cozy in a well lit room, reading from distance. I enjoy morally gray/dark love interests. And I love stories when one of the central conflicts is that choice between light and dark.
If you like those things, too, then read this book ASAP.
Also, the end of the book sets up the next one perfectly - with no cliffhangers! I need book 2 right now please and thank you.
March 1, 2026
“So, what you’re offering is for me to be… what? Your guard dog against meddling mothers and a broodmare to carry your heirs all in one?”
It was almost a one-sitting read for me—I was hooked from the very first chapter. The pacing is addictive, with no unnecessary delays before the chemistry ignites and the action takes off. The character development is woven seamlessly into the plot, allowing us to truly understand the two main characters without ever slowing the momentum.
The dual POV works beautifully, offering insight into moments that could easily be misunderstood. Seeing both sides adds depth and tension in all the right places.
Lily and Damiano’s story begins when she accidentally stumbles into a room and witnesses a murder. As the feared head of the Boston mafia, Damiano is a man people don’t cross—and Lily knows she should fear him. Yet despite the danger, they’re drawn to each other like moths to a flame. When Damiano decides she belongs to him, Lily runs—but predators don’t give up their prey so easily.
I loved that Lily is a strong FMC who doesn’t simply fold under Damiano’s possessive dominance. She challenges him, balancing his intensity with resilience and wit. Their banter is sharp and engaging, making every interaction crackle with tension. Damiano is the definition of a morally gray, possessive alpha—his dominance is unquestionable, some of his choices are morally dubious, yet he is undeniably and completely captivated by Lily. Meanwhile, Lily’s heart, mind, and body are at war—but ultimately, she finds her perfect match.
Your Monster is a dark, unapologetic dive into a fiercely possessive romance. If you enjoy morally gray antiheroes, predator-and-prey dynamics, and gritty subplots that heighten the romantic tension, this one is absolutely for you
It was almost a one-sitting read for me—I was hooked from the very first chapter. The pacing is addictive, with no unnecessary delays before the chemistry ignites and the action takes off. The character development is woven seamlessly into the plot, allowing us to truly understand the two main characters without ever slowing the momentum.
The dual POV works beautifully, offering insight into moments that could easily be misunderstood. Seeing both sides adds depth and tension in all the right places.
Lily and Damiano’s story begins when she accidentally stumbles into a room and witnesses a murder. As the feared head of the Boston mafia, Damiano is a man people don’t cross—and Lily knows she should fear him. Yet despite the danger, they’re drawn to each other like moths to a flame. When Damiano decides she belongs to him, Lily runs—but predators don’t give up their prey so easily.
I loved that Lily is a strong FMC who doesn’t simply fold under Damiano’s possessive dominance. She challenges him, balancing his intensity with resilience and wit. Their banter is sharp and engaging, making every interaction crackle with tension. Damiano is the definition of a morally gray, possessive alpha—his dominance is unquestionable, some of his choices are morally dubious, yet he is undeniably and completely captivated by Lily. Meanwhile, Lily’s heart, mind, and body are at war—but ultimately, she finds her perfect match.
Your Monster is a dark, unapologetic dive into a fiercely possessive romance. If you enjoy morally gray antiheroes, predator-and-prey dynamics, and gritty subplots that heighten the romantic tension, this one is absolutely for you
March 2, 2026
Damiano ruined my peace and I let him.
This book pulled me in so quietly that I didn’t even realize when it stopped being a story and started becoming a fixation. It has everything a dark romance should. Power. Danger. Emotional tension. But it’s the restraint that makes it unforgettable.
Damiano isn’t loud about who he is. He doesn’t need to prove anything. He just exists with this calm, controlled intensity that makes every interaction feel heavier. The chocolate brown eyes with that hint of amber, the rare softness that slips through, the way he calls her “little flower” like it’s both reverence and possession. It was over for me before I even realized it.
What made this story hit deeper was Lily. She isn’t weak in his world. She’s learning it, surviving it, and finding her place in it. Her thoughts, her fears, and her quiet strength add so much depth. The emotional push and pull between them feels real. Their connection isn’t simple or easy. It feels inevitable.
There’s darkness here. Real danger. Moments that feel intense and unsettling. But there’s also softness in unexpected places, and that contrast makes everything feel more personal.
This book didn’t give me butterflies.
It gave me obsession.
It gave me something that stayed with me long after I finished reading. And honestly, I don’t think I’ll recover from him anytime soon. 🖤
This book pulled me in so quietly that I didn’t even realize when it stopped being a story and started becoming a fixation. It has everything a dark romance should. Power. Danger. Emotional tension. But it’s the restraint that makes it unforgettable.
Damiano isn’t loud about who he is. He doesn’t need to prove anything. He just exists with this calm, controlled intensity that makes every interaction feel heavier. The chocolate brown eyes with that hint of amber, the rare softness that slips through, the way he calls her “little flower” like it’s both reverence and possession. It was over for me before I even realized it.
What made this story hit deeper was Lily. She isn’t weak in his world. She’s learning it, surviving it, and finding her place in it. Her thoughts, her fears, and her quiet strength add so much depth. The emotional push and pull between them feels real. Their connection isn’t simple or easy. It feels inevitable.
There’s darkness here. Real danger. Moments that feel intense and unsettling. But there’s also softness in unexpected places, and that contrast makes everything feel more personal.
This book didn’t give me butterflies.
It gave me obsession.
It gave me something that stayed with me long after I finished reading. And honestly, I don’t think I’ll recover from him anytime soon. 🖤
April 26, 2026
I have mixed feelings about Damiano. He's a dark, obsessive, possessive, and ruthless man, yet tender with his beloved.
Damiano is drawn to Lily and becomes obsessed with her. She's attracted to him but also repulsed by the world they live in.
Damiano does everything he can to get to know her. At a dinner party, he proposes marriage, but she rejects him—a grave mistake. Seeking her freedom, she runs away—another big mistake. She awakens the monster within.
Damiano dedicates himself to finding her, and when he succeeds, he's no longer the gentleman who invaded her space. He's more ruthless, and his new proposal hurts Lily.
I loved the plot development; Damiano softened a bit and was willing to do anything for her.
I could have given him a better rating, but I couldn't; I hated the way he treated her. The attraction was mutual, and he could have been more chivalrous when he started living with her, but he chose to be a monster.
⚠️Advisory⚠️
Your Monster is a dark romance and contains non-consent/dubious consensual dynamics (NC/DC), violence, threats, psychological tension, crime, human trafficking, and morally grey characters. There is also mention of emotional child abuse and depiction of PTSD.
This book is intended for mature readers who are comfortable reading dark romance and mafia-related dark content.
Damiano is drawn to Lily and becomes obsessed with her. She's attracted to him but also repulsed by the world they live in.
Damiano does everything he can to get to know her. At a dinner party, he proposes marriage, but she rejects him—a grave mistake. Seeking her freedom, she runs away—another big mistake. She awakens the monster within.
Damiano dedicates himself to finding her, and when he succeeds, he's no longer the gentleman who invaded her space. He's more ruthless, and his new proposal hurts Lily.
I loved the plot development; Damiano softened a bit and was willing to do anything for her.
I could have given him a better rating, but I couldn't; I hated the way he treated her. The attraction was mutual, and he could have been more chivalrous when he started living with her, but he chose to be a monster.
⚠️Advisory⚠️
Your Monster is a dark romance and contains non-consent/dubious consensual dynamics (NC/DC), violence, threats, psychological tension, crime, human trafficking, and morally grey characters. There is also mention of emotional child abuse and depiction of PTSD.
This book is intended for mature readers who are comfortable reading dark romance and mafia-related dark content.
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!
March 13, 2026
I read this all in one night, I love reading a good mafia book before bed. Lily and Damiano meet when Lily accidentally sees something she shouldn’t have and Damiano decides that she will be his. She never wanted the mafia life, she just want to be a veterinarian, but Damiano plans to keep her.
They have an amazing dynamic. I love how they spoke to one another during their first few encounters. When they were dancing together and had their first dinner together, their connection was immaculate. I did feel like that connection fell off a little after he captured her when she ran away from him.
Lily is the daughter of a mafia mistress, grew up with just her mother until she passed away. Her father took her in and her stepmother didn't like her. She did everything she could to be independent and works for herself, never relying on her family.
Damiano is a Boston mafia boss, a ruthless man who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. He wants to spend is life with Lily and will stop anything that separates them, even Lily herself.
Please look at the trigger warnings before reading this book. There is SA (by the mmc in my opinion) and a subplot with human trafficking.
Thank you Elena Woods for writing this book and allowing me to read this ARC!
They have an amazing dynamic. I love how they spoke to one another during their first few encounters. When they were dancing together and had their first dinner together, their connection was immaculate. I did feel like that connection fell off a little after he captured her when she ran away from him.
Lily is the daughter of a mafia mistress, grew up with just her mother until she passed away. Her father took her in and her stepmother didn't like her. She did everything she could to be independent and works for herself, never relying on her family.
Damiano is a Boston mafia boss, a ruthless man who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. He wants to spend is life with Lily and will stop anything that separates them, even Lily herself.
Please look at the trigger warnings before reading this book. There is SA (by the mmc in my opinion) and a subplot with human trafficking.
Thank you Elena Woods for writing this book and allowing me to read this ARC!
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.
March 1, 2026
Oh, he’s a monster alright, the kind of monster you don’t just want in your bed, but standing right beside you.
At nine years old, Lily’s life changed forever, and it wasn't exactly a fairytale. She eventually manages to escape, but her freedom is short-lived; her father drags her back to Boston to fulfill her 'duty' as a daughter of the criminal elite. That’s when she encounters Damiano. He is obsessed, relentless, and becomes the one monster she never saw coming.
I picked this up on Friday and finished it by Saturday—it was just that good. I was hooked within minutes of the first chapter. The storyline flows like a silk dress sliding down your skin, but it carries a sharp bite, like the click of stilettos on marble at a high-stakes party you never wanted to attend.
Lily has spent most of her life trying to outrun the Mafia, only to fall directly into the hands of the man who runs it. What choices will she make? How will he change her? And can she live with the woman she’s becoming? Grab your copy and dig in; once you enter Damiano and Lily’s world, there’s no turning back.
At nine years old, Lily’s life changed forever, and it wasn't exactly a fairytale. She eventually manages to escape, but her freedom is short-lived; her father drags her back to Boston to fulfill her 'duty' as a daughter of the criminal elite. That’s when she encounters Damiano. He is obsessed, relentless, and becomes the one monster she never saw coming.
I picked this up on Friday and finished it by Saturday—it was just that good. I was hooked within minutes of the first chapter. The storyline flows like a silk dress sliding down your skin, but it carries a sharp bite, like the click of stilettos on marble at a high-stakes party you never wanted to attend.
Lily has spent most of her life trying to outrun the Mafia, only to fall directly into the hands of the man who runs it. What choices will she make? How will he change her? And can she live with the woman she’s becoming? Grab your copy and dig in; once you enter Damiano and Lily’s world, there’s no turning back.
March 4, 2026
This book wasn’t just a read — it was an addiction! I devoured it in one sitting and would’ve gladly canceled plans(work) to keep going.
It gave me dark The Phantom of the Opera energy — a heroine torn between light and darkness, and a hero who fully embraces being the monster. Damiano Santaluccia, Boston mafia boss known as Il Demonio, is possessive from the first glance. Not jealous. Not protective. Burn-the-world-down possessive. Toxic? Yes. Sexy? Also yes.
The spice is strong — and not always clearly consensual — so definitely check trigger warnings. This is unapologetically dark romance. The human trafficking subplot stays in the background while the obsession, tension, and push-pull dynamic take center stage.
Perfect for fans of mafia romance with morally gray (okay, morally black) heroes. No cliffhanger, but the setup for Book 2? Brutal in the best way.
I’m obsessed — and I need the next book immediately.
It gave me dark The Phantom of the Opera energy — a heroine torn between light and darkness, and a hero who fully embraces being the monster. Damiano Santaluccia, Boston mafia boss known as Il Demonio, is possessive from the first glance. Not jealous. Not protective. Burn-the-world-down possessive. Toxic? Yes. Sexy? Also yes.
The spice is strong — and not always clearly consensual — so definitely check trigger warnings. This is unapologetically dark romance. The human trafficking subplot stays in the background while the obsession, tension, and push-pull dynamic take center stage.
Perfect for fans of mafia romance with morally gray (okay, morally black) heroes. No cliffhanger, but the setup for Book 2? Brutal in the best way.
I’m obsessed — and I need the next book immediately.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews