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Faking it with the Mafia Protector: A Mafia Romance
I agreed to a fake marriage with a mafia enforcer.
Falling for him was never supposed to happen.
One spilled coffee turned my world upside down.
Rushing to work, I collided with Matteo Rossi.
His strong, tattooed hands caught me before I fell.
His gun caught my eye before I could breathe.
I ran.
But men like Matteo don’t let go that easily.
He noticed me.
The bruises on my arm.
The fear in my eyes.
The mark left by my violent Bratva ex, his enemy.
That night he’s waiting at the bar where I work.
And his solution is as ruthless as it is marry him.
Fake vows, real protection, and a way for him to get revenge on his rival.
Matteo’s hatred is cold and consuming.
But the moment he touches me, it’s clear revenge isn’t the only thing he craves.
His grip is possessive.
His control is absolute.
I should be terrified. Instead, I’m unraveling.
My Bratva ex won’t back down.
What started as protection has painted a target on everyone I love.
Now Matteo is ready to start a war.
And once a man like him decides you’re his…
There’s no escape without blood.
Falling for him was never supposed to happen.
One spilled coffee turned my world upside down.
Rushing to work, I collided with Matteo Rossi.
His strong, tattooed hands caught me before I fell.
His gun caught my eye before I could breathe.
I ran.
But men like Matteo don’t let go that easily.
He noticed me.
The bruises on my arm.
The fear in my eyes.
The mark left by my violent Bratva ex, his enemy.
That night he’s waiting at the bar where I work.
And his solution is as ruthless as it is marry him.
Fake vows, real protection, and a way for him to get revenge on his rival.
Matteo’s hatred is cold and consuming.
But the moment he touches me, it’s clear revenge isn’t the only thing he craves.
His grip is possessive.
His control is absolute.
I should be terrified. Instead, I’m unraveling.
My Bratva ex won’t back down.
What started as protection has painted a target on everyone I love.
Now Matteo is ready to start a war.
And once a man like him decides you’re his…
There’s no escape without blood.
- GenresRomance
398 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 5, 2026
152 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Willa Wilde
5 books17 followersWilla Wilde writes steamy, high-stakes mafia romance where dangerous men fall hard and never let go. Expect morally gray anti-heroes, fierce heroines, and twists that will leave your jaw on the floor and your Kindle overheating.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received an Advanced Copy and leaving a review.
This was an arranged relationship to get close to Sierra's ex ordered by Matteo's Don. The book starts off a little slow as it introduces the main characters and builds their relationship over two short weeks with pictures and public displays all to draw out Sierra's psycho ex....with a few unexpected twists until they actually get to the wedding. This is my first time reading this author and I thought it was good.
This was an arranged relationship to get close to Sierra's ex ordered by Matteo's Don. The book starts off a little slow as it introduces the main characters and builds their relationship over two short weeks with pictures and public displays all to draw out Sierra's psycho ex....with a few unexpected twists until they actually get to the wedding. This is my first time reading this author and I thought it was good.
February 6, 2026
Right from the start, I knew I wasn’t going to put this book down. I couldn’t because Matteo was fixated on marrying Sierra. Matteo was a complex guy. On the surface level, he appeared to be that stoic Mafia type—without feelings, ruthless—that guy. But with Sierra, he was more. She brought out more. And he shared more of himself with her. There was a vulnerable side that no one else knew, other than his mother. I love that.
And just like Matteo, Faking it with the Mafia Protector had layers too. The romance developing between Sierra and Matteo, the feud between the two Mafias, Sierra’s ex-boyfriend, and Sierra’s journey to build her self-confidence. I loved how everything came full circle at the end. The story was all done with some humorous quips as well. The spice was just right, too.
Thank you to Author Willa Wilde for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
And just like Matteo, Faking it with the Mafia Protector had layers too. The romance developing between Sierra and Matteo, the feud between the two Mafias, Sierra’s ex-boyfriend, and Sierra’s journey to build her self-confidence. I loved how everything came full circle at the end. The story was all done with some humorous quips as well. The spice was just right, too.
Thank you to Author Willa Wilde for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 3, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
ARC Review
Thank you to the author for this amazing mafia rom-com ARC
This book is a dark mafia slow-burn rom-com centered around an arranged marriage of convenience, and I am obsessed.
Our MMC is a mafia enforcer–coded gentleman with just a touch of mama’s boy energy (the good kind). He has lines he absolutely will not cross:
“Some lines you don’t cross, and hurting women is mine.”
He’s also a biker, deeply protective, and genuinely concerned about the FMC’s safety and well-being. Bonus points: he brings her into his world and teaches her self-defense—which very much matters as the story unfolds.
His mission?
“Get close to her. Close enough to draw him out.”
“I frown. ‘You want me to date her?’”
“No. I want you to marry her.”
EXCUSE ME???
And when he first sees her:
“She doesn’t know it yet, but she just became my new favorite weapon.”
I was gone. Immediately.
The FMC is just as compelling. When she says:
“My stomach does something complicated. Part dread, part curiosity, part something else I refuse to name.”
—you know this book is going to hit and that their spark is gonna catch fire. 🔥 Her internal dialogue is humorous, relatable, and sharp, which gives this book that rom-com edge even while things stay dark and dangerous.
The arranged wedding planning? Surprisingly cute and genuinely funny. The awkward meet-the-family and in-law scenes had me smiling the entire time. Watching this gruff, emotionally constipated enforcer navigate domestic situations was chef’s kiss.
And the spice? Exquisite.
“I groan. ‘You’re going to be the death of me.’”
“‘But what a way to go.’”
She bites her lower lip, eyes locked on mine. Fuck it.”
Iconic.
Both MCs are deeply tortured, and there’s real emotional depth to the story. Neither of them is ready to admit their feelings, and that tension?
Delicious. Painful. Perfect slow burn.
⚠️ Spoilers ahead
Her sister-in-law betrays her—and I am still mad about it.
Then she kills her deranged stalker rival mafia ex.
She takes her power back. It was chefs kiss!
I was punching the air.
Absolutely phenomenal book. Perfect ending. I finished this genuinely happy and fully invested in this world, and I hope there is more to this mafia universe.
This is a must-read. No notes…. OTHER THAN READ IT! Thats an order😘🖤📖🔥
ARC Review
Thank you to the author for this amazing mafia rom-com ARC
This book is a dark mafia slow-burn rom-com centered around an arranged marriage of convenience, and I am obsessed.
Our MMC is a mafia enforcer–coded gentleman with just a touch of mama’s boy energy (the good kind). He has lines he absolutely will not cross:
“Some lines you don’t cross, and hurting women is mine.”
He’s also a biker, deeply protective, and genuinely concerned about the FMC’s safety and well-being. Bonus points: he brings her into his world and teaches her self-defense—which very much matters as the story unfolds.
His mission?
“Get close to her. Close enough to draw him out.”
“I frown. ‘You want me to date her?’”
“No. I want you to marry her.”
EXCUSE ME???
And when he first sees her:
“She doesn’t know it yet, but she just became my new favorite weapon.”
I was gone. Immediately.
The FMC is just as compelling. When she says:
“My stomach does something complicated. Part dread, part curiosity, part something else I refuse to name.”
—you know this book is going to hit and that their spark is gonna catch fire. 🔥 Her internal dialogue is humorous, relatable, and sharp, which gives this book that rom-com edge even while things stay dark and dangerous.
The arranged wedding planning? Surprisingly cute and genuinely funny. The awkward meet-the-family and in-law scenes had me smiling the entire time. Watching this gruff, emotionally constipated enforcer navigate domestic situations was chef’s kiss.
And the spice? Exquisite.
“I groan. ‘You’re going to be the death of me.’”
“‘But what a way to go.’”
She bites her lower lip, eyes locked on mine. Fuck it.”
Iconic.
Both MCs are deeply tortured, and there’s real emotional depth to the story. Neither of them is ready to admit their feelings, and that tension?
Delicious. Painful. Perfect slow burn.
⚠️ Spoilers ahead
Her sister-in-law betrays her—and I am still mad about it.
Then she kills her deranged stalker rival mafia ex.
She takes her power back. It was chefs kiss!
I was punching the air.
Absolutely phenomenal book. Perfect ending. I finished this genuinely happy and fully invested in this world, and I hope there is more to this mafia universe.
This is a must-read. No notes…. OTHER THAN READ IT! Thats an order😘🖤📖🔥
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2026
is there more for Matteo & Sierra ?
I loved this story. Yes, it has well written explicit scenes between the main characters and yes there is violence. But still ! Matteo is the violent Enforcer for the Andretti Mafia. But there is still so much good in him and the Andretti Mafia leader Don Lorenzo really cares for his people; like family ! Especially his weapon, Matteo Rossi.
On the other hand Viktor Ilyin is a super duper evil man who is working hand in hand with a Russian Bratva trying to take over the Andretti territory. They don't care about anyone at all ! They will use whoever they want, even sacrificing their own people. They are inhuman ! Sierra Dixon was duped into Viktor's net because he was so charming and attentive but after he became abusive and she began to see that he was in a violent Bratva; she dumps him. But soon learns that no one EVER dumps him and he begins to stalk her because he has always wanted her from the first time he saw her at that bar where she worked. He turns even more violent when she continues to resist him. He sees her with Matteo and becomes enraged !
Sierra is confused and refuses marriage until she can no long when she realizes how dangerous the threat is from Viktor. Sierra has such a loving family, who are afraid for her especially after Viktor and they don't know all of what she went through. The fun starts when they both start to "caught feelings" for each other. Because they really don't want to get marries..at first. There are times when Matteo lets her get closer and then shuts her out because he's afraid to put a bigger target on her back. I loved how tender he is with his only family; his Ma:Mrs. Rossi. One of my favorite phrases was about how he hated for her at Chemo thinking great he's waiting for poison to cure poison. So true ! Matteo wants Vikto dead in the worst way. He tried to kill him before and is making a new dangerous brain destroying drug that kills. He's killed many of their men and now Matteo just has to wait and draw him out.
I loved how there was not only dangers but passion, surprises, unexpected betrayal and a smashing finish. All leading up to a Sweet ending.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this story. Yes, it has well written explicit scenes between the main characters and yes there is violence. But still ! Matteo is the violent Enforcer for the Andretti Mafia. But there is still so much good in him and the Andretti Mafia leader Don Lorenzo really cares for his people; like family ! Especially his weapon, Matteo Rossi.
On the other hand Viktor Ilyin is a super duper evil man who is working hand in hand with a Russian Bratva trying to take over the Andretti territory. They don't care about anyone at all ! They will use whoever they want, even sacrificing their own people. They are inhuman ! Sierra Dixon was duped into Viktor's net because he was so charming and attentive but after he became abusive and she began to see that he was in a violent Bratva; she dumps him. But soon learns that no one EVER dumps him and he begins to stalk her because he has always wanted her from the first time he saw her at that bar where she worked. He turns even more violent when she continues to resist him. He sees her with Matteo and becomes enraged !
Sierra is confused and refuses marriage until she can no long when she realizes how dangerous the threat is from Viktor. Sierra has such a loving family, who are afraid for her especially after Viktor and they don't know all of what she went through. The fun starts when they both start to "caught feelings" for each other. Because they really don't want to get marries..at first. There are times when Matteo lets her get closer and then shuts her out because he's afraid to put a bigger target on her back. I loved how tender he is with his only family; his Ma:Mrs. Rossi. One of my favorite phrases was about how he hated for her at Chemo thinking great he's waiting for poison to cure poison. So true ! Matteo wants Vikto dead in the worst way. He tried to kill him before and is making a new dangerous brain destroying drug that kills. He's killed many of their men and now Matteo just has to wait and draw him out.
I loved how there was not only dangers but passion, surprises, unexpected betrayal and a smashing finish. All leading up to a Sweet ending.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2026
Protective Mafia Romance with Emotional Depth — A Solid 4-Star Read
I received an ARC of Faking it with the Mafia Protector, and overall this was an enjoyable, emotionally driven mafia romance that hits many of the tropes readers of the genre love.
Matteo is very much the classic broody, dangerous, hyper-protective mafia hero. He’s calm, controlled, and intimidating in that quiet way that works really well for this type of story. If you enjoy the “touch her and you’re dead” vibe, he absolutely delivers. Sierra, on the other hand, is written as a strong but realistically traumatized heroine. She’s dealing with a genuinely unsettling ex and past abuse, and I appreciated that she wasn’t portrayed as helpless. She has agency, backbone, and a clear desire to protect herself, which made her easy to root for.
The romance leans slow burn, with a fake-relationship setup that allows the emotional connection to build gradually. The chemistry is solid and believable, relying more on tension, small moments, and emotional proximity than instant fireworks. When the romance does deepen, it feels earned rather than rushed, which was one of the stronger aspects of the book.
That said, this wasn’t a perfect read for me. The pacing is uneven, especially in the first half, where some scenes felt longer than necessary and slowed the momentum. On the flip side, parts of the conflict resolution toward the end felt rushed, as if certain plot threads were wrapped up too quickly. I also wanted more development of the mafia world itself—it mostly serves as atmosphere rather than a fully fleshed-out element of the story.
While Matteo is compelling, he does lean heavily into familiar mafia romance archetypes. He’s well written, but readers looking for a more unique or surprising hero may find him somewhat predictable. Still, his dynamic with Sierra and his protective instincts keep him engaging.
Overall, Faking it with the Mafia Protector is an emotional, trope-forward romance with strong character chemistry and satisfying romantic tension. Despite some pacing issues and missed opportunities for deeper world-building, it’s a solid choice for fans of protective mafia heroes, fake relationships, and healing-focused love stories.
I received an ARC of Faking it with the Mafia Protector, and overall this was an enjoyable, emotionally driven mafia romance that hits many of the tropes readers of the genre love.
Matteo is very much the classic broody, dangerous, hyper-protective mafia hero. He’s calm, controlled, and intimidating in that quiet way that works really well for this type of story. If you enjoy the “touch her and you’re dead” vibe, he absolutely delivers. Sierra, on the other hand, is written as a strong but realistically traumatized heroine. She’s dealing with a genuinely unsettling ex and past abuse, and I appreciated that she wasn’t portrayed as helpless. She has agency, backbone, and a clear desire to protect herself, which made her easy to root for.
The romance leans slow burn, with a fake-relationship setup that allows the emotional connection to build gradually. The chemistry is solid and believable, relying more on tension, small moments, and emotional proximity than instant fireworks. When the romance does deepen, it feels earned rather than rushed, which was one of the stronger aspects of the book.
That said, this wasn’t a perfect read for me. The pacing is uneven, especially in the first half, where some scenes felt longer than necessary and slowed the momentum. On the flip side, parts of the conflict resolution toward the end felt rushed, as if certain plot threads were wrapped up too quickly. I also wanted more development of the mafia world itself—it mostly serves as atmosphere rather than a fully fleshed-out element of the story.
While Matteo is compelling, he does lean heavily into familiar mafia romance archetypes. He’s well written, but readers looking for a more unique or surprising hero may find him somewhat predictable. Still, his dynamic with Sierra and his protective instincts keep him engaging.
Overall, Faking it with the Mafia Protector is an emotional, trope-forward romance with strong character chemistry and satisfying romantic tension. Despite some pacing issues and missed opportunities for deeper world-building, it’s a solid choice for fans of protective mafia heroes, fake relationships, and healing-focused love stories.
February 4, 2026
I love a good mafia romance and this one does not disappoint. It was very hard to put it down and continue with real life...which sadly kept getting in my way of enjoying Matteo to the fullest!
Matteo, the broody Enforcer for the Mafia has secrets. Buried so deep he has kept himself functional by not bringing them to the surface. This made him good at his job as the Enforcer.
But all bets are off when he literally runs into Sierra, fleeing the arms of Viktor....Matteo's number one enemy!
Chasing a lead to get to Viktor, Matteo's personal and his boss's enemy, finds that Viktor has a connection to Sierra, one that his boss, Lorenzo is willing to exploit.
He wants Matteo to marry Sierra to flush Viktor out and then they get the info they need and dispose of him, for good.
This story weaves a tale of two people learning to trust one another. Sierra, who was Viktor's ex, wanted nothing to with any more mafia men at all. But she soon realised that perhaps keeping the fierce deeply broody Mafia Enforcer close may help keep Viktor away from her and keep her alive.
Loved the entire storyline as Matteo struggles with developing feelings towards Sierra. Feelings he is unwilling to accept. Then there is Sierra, who after a horrifying encounter at her flat, ends up living with Matteo..in the spare room, of course...for a little while LOL
He cared for her and tried valiantly to protect her and when he gets stood up at the alter he knows Viktor is the reason.
She is betrayed by someone she trusted. Now she is at Viktor's mercy, as he attempts to rid himself of her through his human trafficking racket!
Do Sierra and Matteo get their HEA...of course they do, but oh boy the hoops these guys have to jump to get there is intense.
If you love a good mafia story, then this one is for you. I loved it!
Matteo, the broody Enforcer for the Mafia has secrets. Buried so deep he has kept himself functional by not bringing them to the surface. This made him good at his job as the Enforcer.
But all bets are off when he literally runs into Sierra, fleeing the arms of Viktor....Matteo's number one enemy!
Chasing a lead to get to Viktor, Matteo's personal and his boss's enemy, finds that Viktor has a connection to Sierra, one that his boss, Lorenzo is willing to exploit.
He wants Matteo to marry Sierra to flush Viktor out and then they get the info they need and dispose of him, for good.
This story weaves a tale of two people learning to trust one another. Sierra, who was Viktor's ex, wanted nothing to with any more mafia men at all. But she soon realised that perhaps keeping the fierce deeply broody Mafia Enforcer close may help keep Viktor away from her and keep her alive.
Loved the entire storyline as Matteo struggles with developing feelings towards Sierra. Feelings he is unwilling to accept. Then there is Sierra, who after a horrifying encounter at her flat, ends up living with Matteo..in the spare room, of course...for a little while LOL
He cared for her and tried valiantly to protect her and when he gets stood up at the alter he knows Viktor is the reason.
She is betrayed by someone she trusted. Now she is at Viktor's mercy, as he attempts to rid himself of her through his human trafficking racket!
Do Sierra and Matteo get their HEA...of course they do, but oh boy the hoops these guys have to jump to get there is intense.
If you love a good mafia story, then this one is for you. I loved it!
February 5, 2026
Mafia romances will always hold a special place in my heart, why? No idea, but when they are done right, they turn out like this book did. Faking it with the Mafia Protector by Willa Wilde is a steamy, dark(ish) romance with an anti-hero at the heart of it. Trigger warnings are posted, check before reading.
Matteo is an enforcer for the Mafia, he is hired muscle and he can keep a secret. Secrets are what keep the mafia world from falling into chaos. A chance encounter with Sierra, the ex to his and his boss number one enemy, literally crashes into him, he knows he must move fast. Sierra is just trying to live her life, get it back on track after leaving her abusive ex-boyfriend Viktor. Viktor who works for the Bratva. Sierra has sworn off men, especially men that have anything to do with the mafia, she learned her lessons in the form of hurtful words and bruises. Matteo is then ordered by his Don, Lorenzo to use Sierra, marry her and do whatever it takes to bring Viktor down.
The book starts off slow, but quickly builds in plot and drama as things progress. Sierra and Matteo slowly start to learn to trust one another, even though they both have trust issues. When Sierra first agrees to marry Matteo, I thought the book was going in a different direction, but I am happy to have been wrong. The more time the pair spend together the more they want their relationship to be real, even if it leads them to more danger in the long run. Matteo is everything you expect an alpha enforcer for the mafia to be, morally grey and willing to do just about anything for those he is loyal to. What more could you ask for in a mafia romance, there is drama there is spice, there are kidnappings and torture, but through it all Sierra and Matteo make it through to the end.
3.8 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️
Tropes:
🖤 Mafia Romance
🖤 Fake Marriage
🖤 Morally Grey Anti-Hero
Matteo is an enforcer for the Mafia, he is hired muscle and he can keep a secret. Secrets are what keep the mafia world from falling into chaos. A chance encounter with Sierra, the ex to his and his boss number one enemy, literally crashes into him, he knows he must move fast. Sierra is just trying to live her life, get it back on track after leaving her abusive ex-boyfriend Viktor. Viktor who works for the Bratva. Sierra has sworn off men, especially men that have anything to do with the mafia, she learned her lessons in the form of hurtful words and bruises. Matteo is then ordered by his Don, Lorenzo to use Sierra, marry her and do whatever it takes to bring Viktor down.
The book starts off slow, but quickly builds in plot and drama as things progress. Sierra and Matteo slowly start to learn to trust one another, even though they both have trust issues. When Sierra first agrees to marry Matteo, I thought the book was going in a different direction, but I am happy to have been wrong. The more time the pair spend together the more they want their relationship to be real, even if it leads them to more danger in the long run. Matteo is everything you expect an alpha enforcer for the mafia to be, morally grey and willing to do just about anything for those he is loyal to. What more could you ask for in a mafia romance, there is drama there is spice, there are kidnappings and torture, but through it all Sierra and Matteo make it through to the end.
3.8 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️
Tropes:
🖤 Mafia Romance
🖤 Fake Marriage
🖤 Morally Grey Anti-Hero
Review of advance copy received from Author
Willa Wilde has stolen my heart with yet another of her mafia men!
Matteo is a perfect blend of alpha male, possessive, obsessive and morally gray hero.
He is ordered to marry Sierra in an effort to piss off/provoke her psychotic ex who just happens to be Bratva and Matteo’s sworn enemy. Sierra is a bartender who is just trying to live her life after her abusive relationship. She is being forced to navigate a dangerous and treacherous world to survive.
This was the kind of story that made me want to hurry through it to find out what happens next while simultaneously not wanting it to end…what a conundrum😵💫.
I loved the drama, the tension, and the laugh out loud moments. This book was sexy and suspenseful with a sprinkle of jaw dropping moments, and those last few chapters are absolute stunners 😳🫣😵💫. Then we finally get to their happily ever after and I found myself shedding some unexpected tears of joy.
Willa Wilde continues to prove that she is an amazing storyteller and continues to be one of my favorite authors to read. It was impossible to put the book down and I loved every moment on every page.
I was happy to receive an advance review copy of Faking it with the Mafia Protector for free, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
Matteo is a perfect blend of alpha male, possessive, obsessive and morally gray hero.
He is ordered to marry Sierra in an effort to piss off/provoke her psychotic ex who just happens to be Bratva and Matteo’s sworn enemy. Sierra is a bartender who is just trying to live her life after her abusive relationship. She is being forced to navigate a dangerous and treacherous world to survive.
This was the kind of story that made me want to hurry through it to find out what happens next while simultaneously not wanting it to end…what a conundrum😵💫.
I loved the drama, the tension, and the laugh out loud moments. This book was sexy and suspenseful with a sprinkle of jaw dropping moments, and those last few chapters are absolute stunners 😳🫣😵💫. Then we finally get to their happily ever after and I found myself shedding some unexpected tears of joy.
Willa Wilde continues to prove that she is an amazing storyteller and continues to be one of my favorite authors to read. It was impossible to put the book down and I loved every moment on every page.
I was happy to receive an advance review copy of Faking it with the Mafia Protector for free, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm a first time reader of Willa Wilde and was very impressed with the quality of her work.
This is the story of Matteo and Sierra. Sierra left her abusive ex but he stalks her and refuses to let her go which is how Matteo ends up crossing her path when he's tracking Victor for revenge.
Matteo is a Mafia enforcer and want to settle a score with Sierra's ex. He's ordered by his Don to get close to Sierra for information and marry her in an effort to piss off/provoke her psychotic ex to reveal himself who just happens to be Bratva and Matteo’s sworn enemy.
Sierra is a bartender who is just trying to move in with her life after her abusive relationship. She agrees to a marriage of convience with Matteo for protection from her ex. The more time Matteo spends with Sierra makes him realize he wants his relationship with her to be real when things get more dangerous then expected.
This is a Mafia love story with death, torture, kidnapping, and betrayal that finally ends in a HEA.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the story of Matteo and Sierra. Sierra left her abusive ex but he stalks her and refuses to let her go which is how Matteo ends up crossing her path when he's tracking Victor for revenge.
Matteo is a Mafia enforcer and want to settle a score with Sierra's ex. He's ordered by his Don to get close to Sierra for information and marry her in an effort to piss off/provoke her psychotic ex to reveal himself who just happens to be Bratva and Matteo’s sworn enemy.
Sierra is a bartender who is just trying to move in with her life after her abusive relationship. She agrees to a marriage of convience with Matteo for protection from her ex. The more time Matteo spends with Sierra makes him realize he wants his relationship with her to be real when things get more dangerous then expected.
This is a Mafia love story with death, torture, kidnapping, and betrayal that finally ends in a HEA.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is Matteo and Sierra's book. I'm not sure what book everyone else read but it's simply ok. The first few chapters were good and the storyline was interesting. Then it went off track and drug until the last chapter. I had to fight to finish the book. While that last chapter was really good, it didn't make up for the difficulty getting there. It seemed as if there were three different authors. The first had promising storylines and threads that were being pulled a bit slow but worked with the storyline. Matteo is after Sierra's ex. Her ex doesn't want to let go. They agree to marry to draw him out. Then it goes off into quicksand. I kept wanting it to get back on track, but it just kept pulling me under. The last chapter was splendid. A betrayal you didn't see coming, the strength that Sierra found, etc. The advice I have is toss everything when Matteo meets her family to the last chapter and rewrite it. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 10, 2026
Very interesting well written story. Sierra dates someone who turns out to be bratva and it turns into an abusive relationship so she breaks up with him but he refuses to accept that and stalks her. Matteo is mafia and wants to take out her ex so his pakhan instructs him to marry her to lure him out. It will be a legal wedding but fake relationship and they can divorce when her ex is caught. Lots of events happen which leads to them both developing feelings first the other but keep it secret. As the real but fake wedding approaches plot twists happen u don’t see coming meanwhile both now want a real marriage but can’t trust their own judgement due to past hurts and trauma.
Great well developed characters, great world building.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Great well developed characters, great world building.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was such a beautiful read. It has mafia, marriage of convenience, close proximity, grumpy sunshine, and so much more.
The story follows Matteo and Sierra. Sierra has just left an abusive ex who refuses to let her go, while Matteo belongs to a rival mafia family and wants her ex taken out. They enter a marriage-of-convenience arrangement, with Matteo marrying Sierra to draw her ex out.
I really enjoyed how the author wrote Matteo’s character—how closed off he is and how slowly, naturally he lets Sierra in and falls for her. Sierra grounding Matteo and becoming his safe space was one of my favorite parts of the story, especially seeing how she also falls for him along the way.
This is a 4-star read for me, and I definitely recommend it.
Thank you to the author for this ARC
The story follows Matteo and Sierra. Sierra has just left an abusive ex who refuses to let her go, while Matteo belongs to a rival mafia family and wants her ex taken out. They enter a marriage-of-convenience arrangement, with Matteo marrying Sierra to draw her ex out.
I really enjoyed how the author wrote Matteo’s character—how closed off he is and how slowly, naturally he lets Sierra in and falls for her. Sierra grounding Matteo and becoming his safe space was one of my favorite parts of the story, especially seeing how she also falls for him along the way.
This is a 4-star read for me, and I definitely recommend it.
Thank you to the author for this ARC
Review of advance copy
Faking it with the Mafia Protector is a steamy Contemporary romance whose MFC Sierra literally runs into her future spilling iced coffee all over the shirt of MMC Matteo Rossi.
Mafia enforcer Matteo has been keeping an eye on his enemy Viktor when he encounters Sierra, and decides right then and there she is going to be his, and as he finds out later, Viktor also happened to be her ex.
Their complicated story soon unfolds with intrigue, crime family dynamics, a marriage of convenience, drama, and passion which entwines into a nicely written narrative that has the pages flying by way to quickly before reaching a well earned HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mafia enforcer Matteo has been keeping an eye on his enemy Viktor when he encounters Sierra, and decides right then and there she is going to be his, and as he finds out later, Viktor also happened to be her ex.
Their complicated story soon unfolds with intrigue, crime family dynamics, a marriage of convenience, drama, and passion which entwines into a nicely written narrative that has the pages flying by way to quickly before reaching a well earned HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2026
Absolutely loved this book. Matteo, mafia enforcer, is told to marry Sierra so that he can get close to her ex, Viktor, as he is the enemy. Sierra agrees because she needs protection and Viktor threatens to harm her family. What starts out as a fake relationship slowly evolves into real feelings as Matteo slowly allows his walls to come down and let Sierra in, and Sierra slowly begins to trust in Matteo and that he will be there for her. What I liked about this story:
❤️Sierra's has a lovely, closely knit family
🤗Matteo's mom instantly accepts Sierra
🔪Touch her & die vibes 😈
💔A family member's betrayal and that person gets what is deserved
🔥Sierra and Matteo have great chemistry once they open up to each completely
Looking forward to the next in series.
❤️Sierra's has a lovely, closely knit family
🤗Matteo's mom instantly accepts Sierra
🔪Touch her & die vibes 😈
💔A family member's betrayal and that person gets what is deserved
🔥Sierra and Matteo have great chemistry once they open up to each completely
Looking forward to the next in series.
Review of advance copy
Okay, I’m in love with this one. Sierra and Matteo were awesome. Talk about an unconventional way of protecting her lol. But it was great how it drew out his rival, especially considering this was Sierra’s ex. And Matteo didn’t even hesitate to make sure the guy never out hands on her again. This book was a definite page turner. I giggled when the families met and the wedding planning. But this also held an intensity to it. Kidnapping, danger, betrayal. This book brought it all. And it was written in a way that held the perfect depth. Nothing felt surface level at all. It flowed well, was easy to follow. I really enjoyed this.
March 2, 2026
This was a bit different from my usual read, but I was completely pulled in. Sierra’s accidental collision with Matteo sets everything in motion and he doesn’t just notice her, he sees the bruises, the fear, and the danger chasing her.
The fake marriage for protection trope is one I love, but the emotional shift from strategic to real felt especially intense here. Matteo is ruthless and possessive, yet unexpectedly tender in the way he cares for Sierra.
Dark, tense, and full of protective energy with real emotional payoff. I loved watching “fake” slowly turn into something neither of them could control.
The fake marriage for protection trope is one I love, but the emotional shift from strategic to real felt especially intense here. Matteo is ruthless and possessive, yet unexpectedly tender in the way he cares for Sierra.
Dark, tense, and full of protective energy with real emotional payoff. I loved watching “fake” slowly turn into something neither of them could control.
January 29, 2026
This book was an absolute page-turner! I found myself completely absorbed, if I didn’t have to do things like eat, sleep and work I could have read it all in one go.
The chemistry between Matteo and Sierria is incredible, making their relationship a highlight of the story. The book is a fantastic blend of suspense, romance, betrayal, and stalker vibes, with plenty of “OMG” moments. The sunshine/grumpy dynamic adds an extra layer of charm.
As a first-time reader of this author, I am thoroughly impressed and look forward to reading more of their work. A big thank you for the ARC!
The chemistry between Matteo and Sierria is incredible, making their relationship a highlight of the story. The book is a fantastic blend of suspense, romance, betrayal, and stalker vibes, with plenty of “OMG” moments. The sunshine/grumpy dynamic adds an extra layer of charm.
As a first-time reader of this author, I am thoroughly impressed and look forward to reading more of their work. A big thank you for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Willa Wilde did it again, it is a surprise to no one she wrote another highly entertaining book!
Some people have a gift when it comes to telling a certain type of stories, and I'm convinced she is meant to write sexy, posessive and unhinged mafia men. I was captured from the beginning and had a hard time putting the book down.
The MMC is a perfect mix of alpha and a little bit petty. He becomes obsessed and I loveee a man who loses it while protecting his woman.
Thanks for this e-ARC, I'm really looking forward to the author's next works.
Some people have a gift when it comes to telling a certain type of stories, and I'm convinced she is meant to write sexy, posessive and unhinged mafia men. I was captured from the beginning and had a hard time putting the book down.
The MMC is a perfect mix of alpha and a little bit petty. He becomes obsessed and I loveee a man who loses it while protecting his woman.
Thanks for this e-ARC, I'm really looking forward to the author's next works.
February 6, 2026
'Matteo’s hatred is cold and consuming.
But the moment he touches me, it’s clear revenge isn’t the only thing he craves.'
Plot was intriguing and intense and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. The characters carried the story and they were so very compelling and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But the moment he touches me, it’s clear revenge isn’t the only thing he craves.'
Plot was intriguing and intense and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. The characters carried the story and they were so very compelling and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Matteo is the Mafia protector, killer, and a man out to settle a score.
Sierra is a bartender in Vegas. She broke up with her abusive Bratva boyfriend and he's not accepting her break-up.
Matteo's Don tells him to get close to her for information on her ex and to do that he needs to marry her. He asks her to marry him as a business arrangement and protection from her ex.
What they don't expect is feeling how right they feel together in and out of the bedroom, and how they love each despite their arrangement. They want their relationship to be real.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sierra is a bartender in Vegas. She broke up with her abusive Bratva boyfriend and he's not accepting her break-up.
Matteo's Don tells him to get close to her for information on her ex and to do that he needs to marry her. He asks her to marry him as a business arrangement and protection from her ex.
What they don't expect is feeling how right they feel together in and out of the bedroom, and how they love each despite their arrangement. They want their relationship to be real.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Get ready to go on a page turning, heart ripping, sunshine-grumpy adventure. This was a really good read. I honestly couldn't put it down. The story is very well written and characters that are so believable that you can feel there emotions from the page. I love how the author has used correct gun safety training in the book.
This was my first adventure with this author now I can't wait to go on the next one.
This was my first adventure with this author now I can't wait to go on the next one.
Review of advance copy
Matteo is on the hunt for Victor, so when he sees him go after a girl he is determined to find out who she is to him. When he realizes that she is in danger and tells his boss. They decide that the best way to get him out of hiding is to have Matteo marry her. When things get more dangerous then anyone expected he realizes that it is no longer fake.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book yanked me straight out of a reading slump and kept me hooked. It has just enough darkness to stay gripping without being heavy, with emotional backstories that add depth rather than drag things down.
The spice isn’t over-the-top, but it’s definitely there — just enough to let your imagination do the work. Add in strong romance, solid mafia vibes, an easy addictive read, and a genuinely satisfying HEA, and I was sold. Highly recommend.
This book yanked me straight out of a reading slump and kept me hooked. It has just enough darkness to stay gripping without being heavy, with emotional backstories that add depth rather than drag things down.
The spice isn’t over-the-top, but it’s definitely there — just enough to let your imagination do the work. Add in strong romance, solid mafia vibes, an easy addictive read, and a genuinely satisfying HEA, and I was sold. Highly recommend.
February 17, 2026
I voluntarily reviewed "FAKING IT WITH THE MAFIA PROTECTOR " a copy from the author it's an amazing well written intriguing intense drama full of danger, fear, betrayal, secrets, abuse violence, action, steam, making not wanting to stop reading.
Matteo Rossi is the Enforcer for the Moretti Mafia Don Lorenzo who treats his people like family especially Matteo unlike Viktor who's head of the Bratva wanting their territory & willing to do a thing to get it even sacrifice his own.
Sierra Dixon was once taken in by Viktors charm at first but he soon showed his violent side the abuse caused her to leave him, he starts stalking her when he sees her with Matteo he gets enraged, she use to a loving family.
Matteo backs off not wanting Sierra to be hurt by Viktor he tried to kill once, he's creating a drug that's dangerous to the brain he wants him dead waiting to draw him out.
Will Matteo & Sierra make their fake marriage that was to protect her from Viktor be for real it's a must read love story you absolutely can't miss you won't be disappointed.
Matteo Rossi is the Enforcer for the Moretti Mafia Don Lorenzo who treats his people like family especially Matteo unlike Viktor who's head of the Bratva wanting their territory & willing to do a thing to get it even sacrifice his own.
Sierra Dixon was once taken in by Viktors charm at first but he soon showed his violent side the abuse caused her to leave him, he starts stalking her when he sees her with Matteo he gets enraged, she use to a loving family.
Matteo backs off not wanting Sierra to be hurt by Viktor he tried to kill once, he's creating a drug that's dangerous to the brain he wants him dead waiting to draw him out.
Will Matteo & Sierra make their fake marriage that was to protect her from Viktor be for real it's a must read love story you absolutely can't miss you won't be disappointed.
Review of advance copy
Mafia, exciting, terrifying
A beautiful mafia love story with all the action. Sierra has no idea she dated a monster until it’s too late. Matteo asks for her help to end the Bratva killer, marry me. Sierra agrees and the action begins, death, kidnapping, betrayal, and finally an HEA for them both.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A beautiful mafia love story with all the action. Sierra has no idea she dated a monster until it’s too late. Matteo asks for her help to end the Bratva killer, marry me. Sierra agrees and the action begins, death, kidnapping, betrayal, and finally an HEA for them both.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
I loved this story. I loved the characters of Mateo and Sierra, especially Mateo’s. I love the author's writing style; it's so smooth, and the plot is excellent. I would love to read more books by this author. I highly recommend this book, it's very entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2026
A strong 4 star book. I didn’t want to put this book down. Matteo is a good balance of alpha, protective and attentive mafia man. I felt sorry for Sierra but she’s strong and fights to stand up against her ex. Her and Matteo have the chemistry to keep you turning the pages to see how he’s going to protect her. Loved this book.
February 11, 2026
I enjoyed this book. Matteo and Sierra's romance was very intense. These characters appealed to me, and I thought the attraction and chemistry between them was potent and steamy. The storyline was filled with an enticing mix of drama, danger, emotion, spice, action and twists.
Review of advance copy received from Author
amazing book!
February 7, 2026
What can i say? I love a man who sees a hurt woman and just decides to protect her. I will definetly be picking up the rest of the series
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