Beauty and the Daddy

by Milli Rabbit

In the mafia, they call me The Beast of New York.

And she’s the beautiful virgin who just made a mistake.

Belle is a gorgeous disaster—kind, selfless, and with curves that make me want to take her innocence.

I’m a broken widower doing a terrible job of raising my six‑year‑old daughter.

The throne to my father’s empire is up for grabs, and there are only two

My brother—the family man with heirs to take over.

Or me—the hot‑mess single dad with violent tendencies.

So when Belle—the innocent daughter of a man who owes my family millions—walks into my office, I know exactly how her father will pay.

Her hand in marriage.

An heir to secure my throne.

I’m not a nice guy.

In this story, the Beast doesn’t beg.

And the Beauty might not make it out alive.

this take on Beauty and the Beast isn’t a fairy tale. This man is dangerous, but you’ll get your HEA.

356 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 6, 2025

Reviews

[april ♡ probably reading smut - safety reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 He was the Beast, but I became the reason he built the castle around us.

TROPES:
-dark mafia
-forced marriage/debt
-single dad

This book was great! It’s a very loose retelling of Beauty and the Beast, which I enjoyed. The MMC is known as the Beast of New York, and the FMC is a beauty in her own right.

She’s given to him on a silver platter by her father, who owes him millions. The first time they meet, sparks fly. They can’t resist their attraction to each other. Originally, Luca just wanted her for a few nights but that soon changes to forever.

This book has all the tropes I love, as well as some great kinks that I enjoyed! This is a new-to-me author, but I’ll definitely keep my eye on them to read their past and future books. 5/5!

SAFETY:
Virgin/manwhore: virgin heroine, unknown past for hero but his wife has been dead for 5 years.
OM/OW: none
Cheating/sharing: none
Triggers: murder, payment for debt in the form of a father handing over his adult daughter to the mafia don, pregnancy
Kinks: rough smex, dirty talk, praise, hand necklaces
HEA?: yes!

[TheBookishLibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Beast, His Beauty, And a family worth fighting for ❤️✨

Beauty and the Daddy by Milli Rabbit is everything I love in a dark mafia romance. It’s spicy, emotional, and packed with heart-melting family moments that balance the danger and desire perfectly.

The story follows Belle Donovan, a strong, protective woman who suddenly finds her life turned upside down when her father’s failing business puts her in debt to Luca Moretti, the infamous Beast of New York. To settle what her father owes, Belle becomes the payment, her hand in marriage to a man who terrifies and ignites fear in everyone. Luca’s attraction to Belle is clear from the start, he’s possessive and protective of her in that intense and consuming way that only a mafia man can be. As for Belle… well that intense feeling is very much mutual… 🥵 🔥 🌶️

✨ “No one talks about what’s mine,” he says. “No one disrespects you. Ever.” ✨

Luca might be a feared mafia boss, but behind closed doors, he’s a devoted single dad to his six-year-old daughter Sofia - the big, scary man who makes her packed lunches and attempts to just about cook spaghetti. His soft side is something only Belle, Sofia, and their pets get to see, and it’s the found family love you wish to see. His relationship with Sofia is heartwarming, and the bond that grows between Belle and Sofia is absolutely adorable. Watching Belle step into their world and win both their hearts felt natural and touching.

Their home life adds so much charm too. Bruno, the supposedly scary Great Dane who only eats socks, and Meatball, Belle’s sassy cat who runs the house, bring lightness and humor to the story.

The romance between Belle and Luca is insta-love but written so well that it feels real and consuming. The chemistry is off the charts, and it gets spicy real quick, but there’s also tenderness and deep emotion underneath it all.

✨ “I’ll never touch another woman,” he whispers, raw and certain. “You’ve ruined me for anyone else.”

“Good,” I whisper. “Let’s ruin each other.” ✨

Luca’s possessiveness and devotion to Belle are swoon-worthy, and Belle isn’t your typical naive or helpless mafia heroine. She’s bold, protective, and not afraid to stand her ground, especially when it comes to keeping her family safe. She knows what she wants and she’ll take it.

✨ ”I’m an impatient man. If you want to leave, do it now because I won’t guarantee I’ll stop once I start, sweetheart.”

“Who said I’ll let you stop?” ✨

< spoiler >The secret pregnancy, the twists and betrayals, and the constant tension kept me hooked from start to finish.< / spoiler > There’s never a dull moment, every chapter brings something new, whether it’s emotional depth, danger, or heat.

I absolutely loved this book. I adore mafia men who love fiercely, protectively, and without hesitation, and Luca Moretti is exactly that. A dangerous man with a soft spot for the people he loves most, his daughter, his dog, and the woman who changes everything.

🖤 Mafia Boss
🫶Single Dad
💍 Sold to Pay Debt / Arranged Marriage
🔥 Virgin FMC
🐾 Found Family (pets included!)
🤰 Secret Pregnancy
💞 Possessive, Protective MMC
✨ HEA Guaranteed

[Sonia N. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Belle and Luca

This book was okay. I didn’t hate it but it was predictable. I did really like the epilogues. They were cute and funny.

[Shelley G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Belle is a 26 yo vurgin woman whose father hid his company was in financial troubler for years. He had borrowed millions from the mafia and couldn’t repay it so sold his daughter to the don luka moretti to clear the debt. Belle is shocked and horrified but immediately upon meeting Luca the chemistry if off the charts. He takes her virginity then insists on an engagement then marriage. But family isn’t happy he’s planning to marry a poor nobody with no mafia connections and betrayal is close at hand. Luka must do every to protect this woman he’s fascinated by who he’s coming to care for plus find the traitor and handle the council all while being drawn to belle and they can’t keep their hands off each other. Belle finds out Luka has a 6 yrs ago old daughter and she has to deal with everyone whispering about her and how she’s no good plus her rage at her father selling her like property to save his own skin.
Amazing rich characters, wonderful plot with twists, spicy, heat, emotion, a precocious smart child funny pets and more.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rebecca Unsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beauty and the Daddy is a dark mafia romance. It features Belle and Luca. Luca is the head of a Mafia group, he's also known as the Beast and accepts Belle's hand in marriage in return for a debt her father owes him. Luca is instantly attracted to Belle and vise versa even though she doesn't want to be. Belle starts to see a softer side to Lucas especially when he's with his daughter Sofia and soon gets close to his daughter as well as Luca. Trouble soon hits the family home and Belle shows that along with Luca they will stop at nothing to protect their family.

I absolutely loved this book, the characters are fantastic. Luca is your typical Mafia boss but seeing the softer side when he's with his daughter is heartwarming. I also loved seeing Belle be protective towards her new family and the beautiful relationship between her and Sofia. The family pets add the humour and brings a lightness to the story. This story kept me hooked not only with its action, twists, danger but also with emotion and heart melting moments too.

[An · Rating 4 out of 5]

To settle his debt, Belle Donovan's father gives her to Luca Moretti, head of the New York mob and widower with a young child.

Luca knows exactly what his world is; violent and brutal. That's why he needs something more for his kid,  kindness and a soft place to land.

While he fights his enemies to claim his father's empire, he must protect his family and needs Belle to fulfill a role. However, with an enemy closer than he knows,  he can't afford to get distracted and Belle is proving to be an epic distraction.

Belle knows the man they call 'Beast of New York' is not gentle or easy, but has worked to be such with her. Now, she's fearful he will discover the secret she's been keeping from him and be treated as an enemy.

With a council that questions his decisions, an enemy closing in and Belle still reeling from the life shes been thrust into, will they survive or perish?

This was a good read. It had me guessing how it would all end and if Belle would learn to survive her new world.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a Dark Mafia Romance where Luca, the Don and Beast of NY and Bella who has been given to Luca for her father’s debt discover a new way of life with deceit, death and unexplained emotions. The instant attraction they have for one another has them both jumping right in! Bella enjoys her 1st time being intimate and can’t wait for more. Being thrown into the Mafia world Bella learns quickly that she’s under Luca’s control and protection and his rules are to be obeyed. It’s beautiful to see how Sofia, Luca’s adorable little girl gravitates towards Bella and the relationship they have is one of pure joy. As their engagement and impending wedding approaches the old guards and his brother show they are not happy with an outsider and trouble comes to them causing security breaches and danger. Bella grows into a strong woman in her new world taking steps to figure out who’s responsible for the attacks and they plan together how to eliminate them for good! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Pico1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It had a great love story, a lot of action, and a lot of emotion. Luca is a mafia boss who was widowed when his wife was murdered, and was left with a child, Sofia, who is now 6 years old. Belle is the daughter of a man who borrowed a lot of money from Luca, and can’t pay it. As a result, the payment is Belle, who he delivers to Luca. At first she feels like a prisoner, but in time a warm, loving and respectful relationship develops between Belle and Luca, helped by the fact that Sofia loves Belle and considers her to be her new “momma.” There is a lot of violence caused by Declan, the brother of Luca and some of it is quite graphic, but contributes to the action and the eventual HEA. I really liked Belle and Luca – both were intelligent and determined. I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Avid MC Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't judge a book by its cover! If you thought this book was a frivolous, light-hearted romance then you're in for a pleasant surprise. This book has depth, and the characters are more than one dimensional. Belle is sold to the Beast of New York, Luca, to cover her father's debt. She is drawn to Luca despite his reputation and Luca sees that there is more to Belle than just her beauty. This is a true Beauty and the Beast story as Belle does tame the Beast.

The Mafia Council frowns upon Belle and attempts to convince Luca not to marry her but Luca is determined that Belle will be his in every way. There are undercurrents of betrayal from Luca's enemies, family, and the Council but Luca vows to protect Belle with is life.

There are attempts to kill both Luca and Belle, a secret baby, a family betrayal, and plenty of romance. This is a must read!

[Aleksandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beauty and the Daddy by Milli Rabbit is a spicy, emotional dark mafia romance that hits all the right notes. Belle Donovan is forced to marry Luca Moretti — the infamous Beast of New York — to repay her father’s debt, and what follows is a mix of danger, passion, and unexpectedly tender family moments.

Luca’s fierce devotion to Belle and his sweet relationship with his daughter, Sofia, give this story its heart. The chemistry between Belle and Luca is off the charts (and yes, things get steamy fast!). I loved the blend of tension, warmth, and humor — especially from the family pets who steal every scene.

The insta-love felt a little rushed, and some mafia subplots could’ve used more depth, but overall, it’s a fast, fiery, and satisfying read for fans of protective antiheroes and bold heroines. A solid 4 out of 5 stars — dark, sweet, and deliciously addictive.

[Marsha Graniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beauty and the Daddy is a modern Beauty and the Beast retelling with Mafia vibes. This is Belle and Luca's story, filled with hidden secrets and a surprise baby. I love how similar the story is to the original, but with a darker side. Belle is repaying her father's debt to the Luca, the Mafia beast, but things get more complicated when feelings start to form. I love how the connection Belle has with Luca's daughter, Sofia, and how she starts to feel something more for the Beast. I love their chemistry and how they want to protect each other when things start to threaten them. I really enjoyed their story and can't wait to read more.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tedra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok

Nothing grand. Writing was good.
Felt at times the MMC wasn't all that powerful if some rumors from his brother could derail his support so fast.
Didn't get why she wanted to not tell the mmc about being pregnant nor why she needed so many prenatal visits in a single month? Seriously 3? That early on?
Nor did I understand the way he reacted to her not telling him she was preggers.

Like everyone overreacted or didnt react enough in this book.
Major eye roll you know after f-cking in the hallway with cameras on, f-cking on the balcony with cameras on. And everyone can hear so we gotta read all that everytime they screw.
How shes so loud, everyone can hear them. Over & over we get it

Plus eww, there's a kid there too

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Belles fathers failing buisness owes millions to the Moretti family inperticular Luca, one of two heirs to the family, though his brother is the more likely candidate having already got heirs, Luca is known and feared as the beast, a single father trying his best to raise his 6yr old daughter Sofia. When he comes across Belle he knows exactly how her fathers debt will be paid, by her hand in marriage to him. What Belle doesnt expect is to see the man and father thats hidden behind the beast. But when she learns of the war shes been dragged into and that shes carrying another heir, will she be able to stand by the beasts side? Wll written engaging steamy desires drama action and more

[laura.lovesreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book blew me away. It’s a little while since I read a darker romance, but this one got me hooked again.
It’s the first work I’ve read from this author, but won’t be my last.

It’s everything and more of what a good mafia, dark romance story should be.

There is tension, danger, kindle melting chemistry, steamiest steam, an "arranged" beginning, devotion, protectiveness, twists and turns and a happy ever after.

And their family life and his two personas are making this book special and give it depth.

The book flowed naturally and you don’t register the time fly by, while reading it.

A true delight!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Merilu Keenum · Rating 4 out of 5]

Milli Rabbit’s spin on Beauty and the Beast is a clever Mafia, forced proximity, virgin FMC, and single dad story with lots of laughs, sweet moments, and just enough danger to keep it chaotic! Belle is mesmerized by Luca from her first sight of him and he’s surprised to feel so possessive. The chemistry is intense and very spicy: she’s inexperienced, but so responsive! I love their bantering, the protectiveness he shows, and her kindness for his daughter. Throw in a huge dog, a fat cat, and some betrayal to keep the adrenaline flowing! I loved the epilogues: so moving and emotional!!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gladys · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this dark and twisted take on the Beauty and The Beast fairytale. There is a lot of intensity here but also plenty of emotions and feelings, as well as lovely sprinklings of cuteness, and sweetness. I thought Belle and Luca were great characters. You could easily see their resemblance to the original characters, but the author made them more layered and complex. Sofia, Luca's daughter and the pets too were scene and heart stealing additions that added an extra layer of richness and realism into the mix and altogether helped solidify a great book.

[Simone Haeseler · Rating 5 out of 5]

You have to excuse the question, why he would agree to spent 7 mil on a woman he never met, with this kind of money and connections he can have every woman he wants, that is what history teach us, no matter how you look. But apart from that it was a good book, funny and witty writing and dialogues. I found her behavior a bit strange and the brother a bit creepy, but he was nice in his mafia way. All in all a good solid read.

[Kylo Badgley-Glover · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really fun mafia retelling of beauty and the beast. Belle’s father finds himself in over his head with the mafia and uses his most valuable asset; his daughter to settle the debt. Lucky for Belle she and Luca have incredible chemistry and what unfolds is a suspenseful, sexy romp with a familiar yet fresh twist. If you are looking for a fast paced, spicy, mafia romance this will hit the spot!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beast becomes the husband.

He was he Beast. Feared by everyone. Sofia was the Virginia. Dreams of family of her own, babies, loving
husband. Real life happens. Sofia's father falters I his debts. Contacts Luca.. offers his daughter for payment.
This book was so wonderful. I loved it. Couldn't put it down.
ALL the good traits of a Mafia book are in this book. There are some triggers. But all in all... I give it 5 STARS.

[Amanda M · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars
A dark mafia romance with plenty of spice. Belle and Luca were a perfect match in this. These two characters have chemistry. The plot is on point. There's even some twists and turns. This story held my interest from page one until the very end. Overall, it's a good solid story that I enjoyed reading.

Thanks to the author for an advance copy. My opinions are my own and freely expressed.

[MsRoman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beauty and the Daddy: A Dark Mafia, Age Gap Romance (Broken Boss Daddies) By: Milli Rabbit. Belle Donovan is giving as a debt to Luca Moretti and that is how the story unravels. However, Declan Moretti has an agenda which will have you thinking is she really a debt or someone else. It’s a great story which will explain so much at the end .

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This intriguing story has fairytale vibes in names. Luca is the head of a mafia family who accepts Belle's hand in marriage when her father uses her as leverage for a debt owed. It starts their path that is filled with dangerous drama and family dynamics that had me cheering them on to finding their path to happiness.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lian Carver · Rating 4 out of 5]

a great book to read, a mafia based retelling of beauty and the beast. the storyline is great and grips you from the start.

This book has everything emotions, danger, desire and spice.

Highly recommend to anyone who loves Mafia and wants a loose retelling of a childhood favorite beauty and the beast.

[Kay · Rating 1 out of 5]

Well, this was a let-down. The premise was good, but there were so many inconsistencies. Several times, I reread a page to make sure I wasn't missing something. This book should've ended up on my DNF shelf, but I skimmed through, sure I wouldn't miss anything important, since nothing flowed and details were all over the place.

[Sammie Rodriguez · Rating 1 out of 5]

I think I made it to chapter 3. DNF.
How do we go from here dad selling her, to them living together to straight to banging a virgin. She was on my nerves so fast, and she was “waiting for the right guy” but within a day she’s banging the beast? He’s so scary yet so gentle with her so fast? Bleh.

[barbie hartman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dark & twisted version of Beauty and the Beast...

That takes place within the world of the mafia. Belle and Luca's story grabbed my interest on page one. Get ready for opulence, violence, hidden agendas, life-altering secrets, combustible passion, betrayal and justice. This love story has clever dialogue and memorable characters, action and suspense.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc review I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. In this story can belle tame the beast or will she break where there is betrayal, wars ,hope, love and forgiveness. Fantastic.

[Foodiegirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Belle and Luca, they have an incredible chemistry. This a sexy suspenseful story with a twist. This beauty and the beast is a mafia tale, Belle’s father uses her to settle his debt to the mafia. This mafia romance is a deliciously hot romantic suspense novel.

[Marilyn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mafia Don falls for ordinary woman!

Loved how Belle and Luca meet! Bell's dad sells her to Luca to pay off his debt. At first belle is mad but attracted to Luca. She soon falls for him and he is obsessed with her but someone is trying to kill them. Loved the ending. Great story.

[Mary Ellen Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beauty and the Daddy

The story itself was a good story. The problem I had with it was the timeline. You had her pregnant. You were confused when she got pregnant. You had the wedding was supposed to be the next day. The next day she is flying to Rome.