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The Mobster's Secret : Fake Marriage Italian Mafia
Elena
I’ve never understood what the big deal is about falling in love. Why do women want that so badly? History is filled with stories of women who gave their all to a man only to be betrayed in the end. No, I’ll leave all thoughts of love and romance to my sisters. I just want to focus on finishing my doctorate and starting my career. But when my father reveals his plans for me, my only chance of escaping one dangerous man is to seek safety in the arms of another. Roarke isn’t just any man, though—he’s my bodyguard. And I’m starting to realize the draw I feel toward him might just be love. But when my bodyguard becomes my husband to protect me, can I convince him to stay after the danger has passed? Or am I just as destined for heartbreak as all the women I’ve read about in my history books?
Roarke
I’m in love with my client. I have been since the moment I first saw her picture. She’s off limits and I’m damaged goods, tormented by nightmares of warfare and violence. I’m not worthy of a woman like Elena. So, I’ve resigned myself to the fact that being her bodyguard, her protector, is the closest I’ll ever get to making her mine. That is until she asks me to marry her. But her proposal isn’t about love; it’s as practical as she is. The only way to escape an arranged marriage to a psychopath is to marry me instead. I can’t turn her down though, so I’ll just have to figure out how I’m going to keep her once the dust settles. Because with my ring on her finger, there is no doubt. Elena is mine. Til death do us part.
Lords of New York is an unputdownable, highly addictive series about four powerful organized crime families. Each book is a standalone, guaranteed safe, HEA, high heat, virgin heroines, and the powerful men they captivate. Cassi
Lords of New York
Bride for the Mobster
The Mobster's Secret
The Mobster's Dancer
Handling His Chaos
Resisting the Mobster
Hacking the Mob
The Mobster's Promise
Heart of the Mobster
Villians of New York is a highly addictive, unputdownable series featuring the Bratva and their unique stories. Each is a standalone, that compliments the other if you choose to read in order. All Guaranteed safe, high heat, morally gray heroes, and their virgin heroines. Enjoy! Cassi
Villians of New York Bratva
Pakhan's Forbidden Bride
The Bratva's Temptation
The Bratva's Secret
The Bratva's Obsession
I’ve never understood what the big deal is about falling in love. Why do women want that so badly? History is filled with stories of women who gave their all to a man only to be betrayed in the end. No, I’ll leave all thoughts of love and romance to my sisters. I just want to focus on finishing my doctorate and starting my career. But when my father reveals his plans for me, my only chance of escaping one dangerous man is to seek safety in the arms of another. Roarke isn’t just any man, though—he’s my bodyguard. And I’m starting to realize the draw I feel toward him might just be love. But when my bodyguard becomes my husband to protect me, can I convince him to stay after the danger has passed? Or am I just as destined for heartbreak as all the women I’ve read about in my history books?
Roarke
I’m in love with my client. I have been since the moment I first saw her picture. She’s off limits and I’m damaged goods, tormented by nightmares of warfare and violence. I’m not worthy of a woman like Elena. So, I’ve resigned myself to the fact that being her bodyguard, her protector, is the closest I’ll ever get to making her mine. That is until she asks me to marry her. But her proposal isn’t about love; it’s as practical as she is. The only way to escape an arranged marriage to a psychopath is to marry me instead. I can’t turn her down though, so I’ll just have to figure out how I’m going to keep her once the dust settles. Because with my ring on her finger, there is no doubt. Elena is mine. Til death do us part.
Lords of New York is an unputdownable, highly addictive series about four powerful organized crime families. Each book is a standalone, guaranteed safe, HEA, high heat, virgin heroines, and the powerful men they captivate. Cassi
Lords of New York
Bride for the Mobster
The Mobster's Secret
The Mobster's Dancer
Handling His Chaos
Resisting the Mobster
Hacking the Mob
The Mobster's Promise
Heart of the Mobster
Villians of New York is a highly addictive, unputdownable series featuring the Bratva and their unique stories. Each is a standalone, that compliments the other if you choose to read in order. All Guaranteed safe, high heat, morally gray heroes, and their virgin heroines. Enjoy! Cassi
Villians of New York Bratva
Pakhan's Forbidden Bride
The Bratva's Temptation
The Bratva's Secret
The Bratva's Obsession
117 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2026
20 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
Cassi Hart
208 books360 followersCassi lives to write brazen OTT, insta-love, short stories, about possessive alphas and the women they love. Stories that will leave you satisfied, and maybe blushing a little. Cassi loves pedicures, being pampered in any way possible, her darling golden Princess, amazing coffee, and traveling to anywhere warm.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
January 13, 2026
"I want everything, I realize. Her heart, body, and soul." ~Roarke
This book was about Elena, 22, the next Marino sister, who was a college student working on her PhD. She was not looking for love, marriage, and didn't want anything to do with it. She talked a good game, she had a plan for her life, no time for the chemical endorphins reacting that caused feelings of love, her view point ((😂)), I figured this might be a fun change in the series. It wasn't quite what I thought it would be. When Elena's brother-in-law Matteo hired a well respected Roarke O'Shea, 34, an ex-military man who specialized in protection and safety, Roarke had a security firm, to watch over his wife's. younger siblings, I was on board. Roarke fell instantly when he looked at Elena's photo.📸😍
Now. Somehow, the story was already ahead of itself when the story began if that makes sense. Roarke had already been guarding Elena for 2 weeks. I thought there would be banter, her pushing him away then pulling him back, some flirty exchanges as these 2 developed feelings. Building blocks. But no. It never happened. Elena wanted him instantly. Slight spoiler: Chapter 2 in her bedroom where no bodyguard would dare be in unless he was checking the perimeter or there was a threat.🙄 What happened to all the love avoidance? When did she want him? Again, no character growth. Just telling no showing of these developments.
The story does move along with other dramatic flare, many expected moves, especially the ending, as well as the dastardly Marino parents once again forcing another daughter into a worse marriage arrangement with a much older cruel Russian bratva. One rumored to have unalived his previous wives and his older son. Giovanni Marino has to be the worst father with his greed and undermining shady dealings. Elena's mother was no better.🙉 No more college for you, Elena. Marriage. Now. When had Yuri BaIshov ever seen Elena years ago? Her parents where not in the same circles as these mobsters. Hence the deal with Matteo. So was Elena under the age of 18 back then?😬 It was confusing. The arranged marriage has already happened twice, will the next books follow a similar pattern for the rest of the sisters, and the entire series? And why are none of these sisters speaking to each other over these manipulations from their parents? Will Gia stop being a ballerina, too? I'm wondering how the next book will play out?
The fake marriage was introduced. Slight running. Rough and hard alone time for Elena and Roarke.🥵🔥🥵🔥 Even Roarke and his PTSD and nightmares were touched on but not talked about between the couple. I did enjoy meeting the O'Shea family. They were. interesting and brightened up the story. Especially Fiona. Even Alexei. It got wrapped up too easily... but okay. I won't spoil that here. Question: why do the MFCs always go into situations where they have to be rescued? They know the danger, they can't be surprised when it happens. Roarke was likable. Elena, ehh. After 5yrs she should not have to question things about love from her partner. That was weird. Happy reading.*•>§<•*🖤🖤🖤
Overall rating 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
🚩🚩Check the TWs. 18+ read.🚩🚩
🧑🏽✈️💋👩🏫Thank you to Ms Hart. The opinions shared here are my honest thoughts on the story I read.👩🏫💋🧑🏽✈️
This book was about Elena, 22, the next Marino sister, who was a college student working on her PhD. She was not looking for love, marriage, and didn't want anything to do with it. She talked a good game, she had a plan for her life, no time for the chemical endorphins reacting that caused feelings of love, her view point ((😂)), I figured this might be a fun change in the series. It wasn't quite what I thought it would be. When Elena's brother-in-law Matteo hired a well respected Roarke O'Shea, 34, an ex-military man who specialized in protection and safety, Roarke had a security firm, to watch over his wife's. younger siblings, I was on board. Roarke fell instantly when he looked at Elena's photo.📸😍
Now. Somehow, the story was already ahead of itself when the story began if that makes sense. Roarke had already been guarding Elena for 2 weeks. I thought there would be banter, her pushing him away then pulling him back, some flirty exchanges as these 2 developed feelings. Building blocks. But no. It never happened. Elena wanted him instantly. Slight spoiler: Chapter 2 in her bedroom where no bodyguard would dare be in unless he was checking the perimeter or there was a threat.🙄 What happened to all the love avoidance? When did she want him? Again, no character growth. Just telling no showing of these developments.
The story does move along with other dramatic flare, many expected moves, especially the ending, as well as the dastardly Marino parents once again forcing another daughter into a worse marriage arrangement with a much older cruel Russian bratva. One rumored to have unalived his previous wives and his older son. Giovanni Marino has to be the worst father with his greed and undermining shady dealings. Elena's mother was no better.🙉 No more college for you, Elena. Marriage. Now. When had Yuri BaIshov ever seen Elena years ago? Her parents where not in the same circles as these mobsters. Hence the deal with Matteo. So was Elena under the age of 18 back then?😬 It was confusing. The arranged marriage has already happened twice, will the next books follow a similar pattern for the rest of the sisters, and the entire series? And why are none of these sisters speaking to each other over these manipulations from their parents? Will Gia stop being a ballerina, too? I'm wondering how the next book will play out?
The fake marriage was introduced. Slight running. Rough and hard alone time for Elena and Roarke.🥵🔥🥵🔥 Even Roarke and his PTSD and nightmares were touched on but not talked about between the couple. I did enjoy meeting the O'Shea family. They were. interesting and brightened up the story. Especially Fiona. Even Alexei. It got wrapped up too easily... but okay. I won't spoil that here. Question: why do the MFCs always go into situations where they have to be rescued? They know the danger, they can't be surprised when it happens. Roarke was likable. Elena, ehh. After 5yrs she should not have to question things about love from her partner. That was weird. Happy reading.*•>§<•*🖤🖤🖤
Overall rating 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
🚩🚩Check the TWs. 18+ read.🚩🚩
🧑🏽✈️💋👩🏫Thank you to Ms Hart. The opinions shared here are my honest thoughts on the story I read.👩🏫💋🧑🏽✈️
January 14, 2026
She gave him her hand to survive. He took her heart without asking.
Elena doesn’t believe in love stories. She believes in finishing her doctorate, making a life on her own terms, and staying far away from anything that feels like surrender. But when her father arranges her marriage to a violent mobster, her only escape is marrying the one man who was never meant to cross the line. Roarke is just her bodyguard. Until he isn’t.
Roarke is a soldier turned protector, haunted by memories he can’t erase and convinced he doesn’t deserve anything good. But when Elena asks him to marry her, he doesn’t think twice. What starts as a way out turns into something much harder to control. Protecting her was the job. Wanting her is what could ruin them both.
Their fake marriage becomes a fight to survive and then something deeper. The pull between them is intense, but it’s the trust and vulnerability they share that make it real. Roarke finds peace for the first time. Elena learns she doesn’t have to carry everything alone. Years later, they’re still choosing each other.
Elena grows from a guarded, skeptical woman into someone willing to risk everything for something real. Roarke lowers his walls and discovers love doesn't make him weak. It makes him whole. What begins in fear becomes a bond built on trust, loyalty, and fire that never burns out.
A dark, steamy, age gap, fake marriage, mafia bodyguard romance with a possessive protector, virgin heroine, and emotional intensity, exploring trauma, identity, survival, control, vulnerability, and the redemptive power of love. It’s about reclaiming agency when your choices are gone, finding safety in the one person who truly sees you, and choosing love not because it’s easy, but because it’s everything.
The Elevator Pitch: A woman on the brink of being forced into a violent arranged marriage finds her only escape in a bodyguard who swore he’d never cross the line. What starts as a fake marriage for protection turns into a fiercely emotional bond neither of them saw coming. With danger closing in and feelings running deep, this is a high-stakes romance about trust, trauma, and a love that won’t let go.
Elena doesn’t believe in love stories. She believes in finishing her doctorate, making a life on her own terms, and staying far away from anything that feels like surrender. But when her father arranges her marriage to a violent mobster, her only escape is marrying the one man who was never meant to cross the line. Roarke is just her bodyguard. Until he isn’t.
Roarke is a soldier turned protector, haunted by memories he can’t erase and convinced he doesn’t deserve anything good. But when Elena asks him to marry her, he doesn’t think twice. What starts as a way out turns into something much harder to control. Protecting her was the job. Wanting her is what could ruin them both.
Their fake marriage becomes a fight to survive and then something deeper. The pull between them is intense, but it’s the trust and vulnerability they share that make it real. Roarke finds peace for the first time. Elena learns she doesn’t have to carry everything alone. Years later, they’re still choosing each other.
Elena grows from a guarded, skeptical woman into someone willing to risk everything for something real. Roarke lowers his walls and discovers love doesn't make him weak. It makes him whole. What begins in fear becomes a bond built on trust, loyalty, and fire that never burns out.
A dark, steamy, age gap, fake marriage, mafia bodyguard romance with a possessive protector, virgin heroine, and emotional intensity, exploring trauma, identity, survival, control, vulnerability, and the redemptive power of love. It’s about reclaiming agency when your choices are gone, finding safety in the one person who truly sees you, and choosing love not because it’s easy, but because it’s everything.
The Elevator Pitch: A woman on the brink of being forced into a violent arranged marriage finds her only escape in a bodyguard who swore he’d never cross the line. What starts as a fake marriage for protection turns into a fiercely emotional bond neither of them saw coming. With danger closing in and feelings running deep, this is a high-stakes romance about trust, trauma, and a love that won’t let go.
January 17, 2026
4,5 stars
,, A chroi.
He murmurs the words against my skin as he moves inside me, and
this time I need to know. "What does it mean?" I whisper breathlessly.
He pulls back to look at me, eyes blazing with emotion. "My heart," he says, his voice rough. "A chroi means my heart. My beloved. That's what you are to me, Elena.”
,, A chroi.
He murmurs the words against my skin as he moves inside me, and
this time I need to know. "What does it mean?" I whisper breathlessly.
He pulls back to look at me, eyes blazing with emotion. "My heart," he says, his voice rough. "A chroi means my heart. My beloved. That's what you are to me, Elena.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
He's everything she never knew she'd ever want in her life.
Roarke O’Shea is now living in NYC, but he still wakes up smelling smoke, feeling the heat, and remembering how he couldn't breathe. The mission had failed, and half of his unit was lost in that desert operation.
Shortly after waking from the three short hours of sleep that ended with his flashback, he receives a phone call from Matteo Rossi. Mob boss don Matteo Rossi. He wants to hire Roark's security firm to protect one of Matteo's new sisters-in-law, Elena. She's twenty-three and a college student working on her doctorate degree. His father-in-law is associated with Mafia business, but he is not a member. Sofia doesn't want her sisters involved with any Mafia members unless absolutely necessary. Matteo loves his wife and wants to honor her wishes. He promises Roarke a hefty fee and will also owe Roarke a personal favor. However, mob bosses are known for turning against people, promises or no promises.
Politicians and A-list celebrities are the main clients for Roarke's company. But he's curious about this proposal. He asks for their dossiers to be sent to him. He plans to study them and then turn down the job. Ah, the best-laid plans of mice and men. The first picture he receives is of the most beautiful woman he's ever seen. He doesn't even need to know anything else about her. He's taking the job even without knowing her name or anything else about her.
Elena, the second eldest daughter, is the most realistic of the three remaining sisters. She knows that love is the biggest scam of them all. Love gives men the power to control women while the women climb the social ladder. In her mind, sex has nothing to do with love. How else can you explain four daughters produced from a marriage filled with indifference, dislike, or hate, not love?
She turned to books at an early age and has studied classical art and the Italian Renaissance but without romanticizing it. Her goal of earning her doctorate degree is nearing completion. She plans to then become a tenured art history professor.
Her sister, Gia, teases that Elena is the next to marry. Elena tells her that since Gia is only a year younger than her, she could be the next bride. But Gia is a ballerina, and she doesn't want to marry before her career ends, and she's certain she'll have at least ten more years before that would occur. Besides, everyone knows that as soon as a ballerina becomes pregnant, the changes to her body will forever diminish her dancing abilities. Despite these beliefs, she's getting quite cozy with Matteo's brother, Dante. Although Elena realizes that her sister, Sofia, and Matteo are now deeply in love with each other, she really doesn't want any more of her sisters involved with mobsters.
As they return from Sofia and Matteo's second wedding service, the important service since the first one was huge and meant to be a show of power. This one was the wedding of Sofia's dreams, small with only people she loves in attendance—her parents were not invited. Besides, the first time they wed, they didn't even care for one another.
As they return from the wedding, Elena is summoned to her patients' house. Roarke is not allowed to accompany her to the meeting with her parents. Her parents summoned her to announce that they've found her a husband—Yuri Balshov. Her intended is not only the pakhan, or boss, of a NYC Bratva family, but he's also known for his sadistic personality. He's a full-blown psychopath who's in his sixties and has had four previous wives, the last three of whom all died mysteriously. But it would be a very strategic marriage for her parents. However, if it occurs, she may not even make it to her twenty-fourth birthday.
Her father, Giovanni Marino, is in a business deal with Yuri, but Yuri wants to be a member of the family first. Her father has obtained the marriage license. He and her mother, Bianca, will witness the vows. Yuri and an officiant are on the way. If she refuses, she has two other sisters. They threaten to have him marry Bella, but she's only seventeen and a high school senior. Besides, state law wouldn't allow it to happen. But there's Gia... She's on her way to achieving her dream of being a prima ballerina and is getting ready to go on her first tour.
Matteo and Yuri are sworn enemies. Matteo won't be back in time to stop the wedding. Once the marriage occurs, Matteo's hands will be tied. If he tries to do anything about it, it will start a war.
She mistakenly thought her father would be happy marrying off Sofia to a Mafia don, but he's trying to cover both sides of the mobs. She has to do something to stall this until she can contact Matteo. She asks to use the restroom. Her father allows it but takes her phone. She flees to the front door, where Roarke had been left to wait for her. He's not there, but she spots him outside the front of the house. Luckily the butler, Thornton, wasn't visible anywhere, so she rushes outside, and as they flee by cab, she explains what her father is trying to do.
Roarke has crossed the line with Elena. He broke the first rule of the company. NEVER get involved with a client before, during, or after a job. His indiscretion could ruin O’Shea Protection Services, which was founded in Ireland by his father before the family came to the US when he was a boy. One word to her father, and he's a dead man and the company is destroyed.
She's been drawn to her bodyguard, Roarke. In fact, she admits to herself that she might actually be in love with him, or at least drawn to him. Would he consider marrying her to save her? There's only one way to know for sure, and that's to ask him, if she can build up her courage to ask. She finally says, “I need you to marry me, Roarke.”
Would he marry her? She's the answer to all the dreams he's ever had but never thought would be answered. But a sadistic psychopath isn't just about to step aside. He'd rather die first. That can be arranged...
I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Roarke O’Shea is now living in NYC, but he still wakes up smelling smoke, feeling the heat, and remembering how he couldn't breathe. The mission had failed, and half of his unit was lost in that desert operation.
Shortly after waking from the three short hours of sleep that ended with his flashback, he receives a phone call from Matteo Rossi. Mob boss don Matteo Rossi. He wants to hire Roark's security firm to protect one of Matteo's new sisters-in-law, Elena. She's twenty-three and a college student working on her doctorate degree. His father-in-law is associated with Mafia business, but he is not a member. Sofia doesn't want her sisters involved with any Mafia members unless absolutely necessary. Matteo loves his wife and wants to honor her wishes. He promises Roarke a hefty fee and will also owe Roarke a personal favor. However, mob bosses are known for turning against people, promises or no promises.
Politicians and A-list celebrities are the main clients for Roarke's company. But he's curious about this proposal. He asks for their dossiers to be sent to him. He plans to study them and then turn down the job. Ah, the best-laid plans of mice and men. The first picture he receives is of the most beautiful woman he's ever seen. He doesn't even need to know anything else about her. He's taking the job even without knowing her name or anything else about her.
Elena, the second eldest daughter, is the most realistic of the three remaining sisters. She knows that love is the biggest scam of them all. Love gives men the power to control women while the women climb the social ladder. In her mind, sex has nothing to do with love. How else can you explain four daughters produced from a marriage filled with indifference, dislike, or hate, not love?
She turned to books at an early age and has studied classical art and the Italian Renaissance but without romanticizing it. Her goal of earning her doctorate degree is nearing completion. She plans to then become a tenured art history professor.
Her sister, Gia, teases that Elena is the next to marry. Elena tells her that since Gia is only a year younger than her, she could be the next bride. But Gia is a ballerina, and she doesn't want to marry before her career ends, and she's certain she'll have at least ten more years before that would occur. Besides, everyone knows that as soon as a ballerina becomes pregnant, the changes to her body will forever diminish her dancing abilities. Despite these beliefs, she's getting quite cozy with Matteo's brother, Dante. Although Elena realizes that her sister, Sofia, and Matteo are now deeply in love with each other, she really doesn't want any more of her sisters involved with mobsters.
As they return from Sofia and Matteo's second wedding service, the important service since the first one was huge and meant to be a show of power. This one was the wedding of Sofia's dreams, small with only people she loves in attendance—her parents were not invited. Besides, the first time they wed, they didn't even care for one another.
As they return from the wedding, Elena is summoned to her patients' house. Roarke is not allowed to accompany her to the meeting with her parents. Her parents summoned her to announce that they've found her a husband—Yuri Balshov. Her intended is not only the pakhan, or boss, of a NYC Bratva family, but he's also known for his sadistic personality. He's a full-blown psychopath who's in his sixties and has had four previous wives, the last three of whom all died mysteriously. But it would be a very strategic marriage for her parents. However, if it occurs, she may not even make it to her twenty-fourth birthday.
Her father, Giovanni Marino, is in a business deal with Yuri, but Yuri wants to be a member of the family first. Her father has obtained the marriage license. He and her mother, Bianca, will witness the vows. Yuri and an officiant are on the way. If she refuses, she has two other sisters. They threaten to have him marry Bella, but she's only seventeen and a high school senior. Besides, state law wouldn't allow it to happen. But there's Gia... She's on her way to achieving her dream of being a prima ballerina and is getting ready to go on her first tour.
Matteo and Yuri are sworn enemies. Matteo won't be back in time to stop the wedding. Once the marriage occurs, Matteo's hands will be tied. If he tries to do anything about it, it will start a war.
She mistakenly thought her father would be happy marrying off Sofia to a Mafia don, but he's trying to cover both sides of the mobs. She has to do something to stall this until she can contact Matteo. She asks to use the restroom. Her father allows it but takes her phone. She flees to the front door, where Roarke had been left to wait for her. He's not there, but she spots him outside the front of the house. Luckily the butler, Thornton, wasn't visible anywhere, so she rushes outside, and as they flee by cab, she explains what her father is trying to do.
Roarke has crossed the line with Elena. He broke the first rule of the company. NEVER get involved with a client before, during, or after a job. His indiscretion could ruin O’Shea Protection Services, which was founded in Ireland by his father before the family came to the US when he was a boy. One word to her father, and he's a dead man and the company is destroyed.
She's been drawn to her bodyguard, Roarke. In fact, she admits to herself that she might actually be in love with him, or at least drawn to him. Would he consider marrying her to save her? There's only one way to know for sure, and that's to ask him, if she can build up her courage to ask. She finally says, “I need you to marry me, Roarke.”
Would he marry her? She's the answer to all the dreams he's ever had but never thought would be answered. But a sadistic psychopath isn't just about to step aside. He'd rather die first. That can be arranged...
I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
January 14, 2026
Elena
I’ve never understood what the big deal is about falling in love. Why do women want that so badly? History is filled with stories of women who gave their all to a man only to be betrayed in the end. No, I’ll leave all thoughts of love and romance to my sisters. I just want to focus on finishing my doctorate and starting my career. But when my father reveals his plans for me, my only chance of escaping one dangerous man is to seek safety in the arms of another. Roarke isn’t just any man, though—he’s my bodyguard. And I’m starting to realize the draw I feel toward him might just be love. But when my bodyguard becomes my husband to protect me, can I convince him to stay after the danger has passed? Or am I just as destined for heartbreak as all the women I’ve read about in my history books?
Roarke
I’m in love with my client. I have been since the moment I first saw her picture. She’s off limits, and I’m damaged goods, tormented by nightmares of warfare and violence. I’m not worthy of a woman like Elena. So, I’ve resigned myself to the fact that being her bodyguard, her protector, is the closest I’ll ever get to making her mine. That is, until she asks me to marry her. But her proposal isn’t about love; it’s as practical as she is. The only way to escape an arranged marriage to a psychopath is to marry me instead. I can’t turn her down, though, so I’ll just have to figure out how I’m going to keep her once the dust settles. Because with my ring on her finger, there is no doubt. Elena is mine. Til death do us part.
This contemporary Italian mafia arranged marriage, insta love romance, is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is engulfed by darkness, danger, violence, and grit, and characters who are a dangerous, violent, morally gray alpha hero mobster who is exuding power/wealth, obsession/possessive, and his virgin heroine bride, who are both resilient, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling, the mobster's secret in this Italian mafia arranged marriage, Elena and Roarke's story, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, in this Lords of New York series, which is unputdownable, featuring the Bratva and their unique stories with a guaranteed safe, high heat, morally grey heores, and their virgin heroines, chaos/drama, suspense that is sure to leave readers on the edge of their seats, betrayal, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the mobster's secret in this Italian Mafia arranged marriage based in New York that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly dangerous, lustful, emotional, and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve never understood what the big deal is about falling in love. Why do women want that so badly? History is filled with stories of women who gave their all to a man only to be betrayed in the end. No, I’ll leave all thoughts of love and romance to my sisters. I just want to focus on finishing my doctorate and starting my career. But when my father reveals his plans for me, my only chance of escaping one dangerous man is to seek safety in the arms of another. Roarke isn’t just any man, though—he’s my bodyguard. And I’m starting to realize the draw I feel toward him might just be love. But when my bodyguard becomes my husband to protect me, can I convince him to stay after the danger has passed? Or am I just as destined for heartbreak as all the women I’ve read about in my history books?
Roarke
I’m in love with my client. I have been since the moment I first saw her picture. She’s off limits, and I’m damaged goods, tormented by nightmares of warfare and violence. I’m not worthy of a woman like Elena. So, I’ve resigned myself to the fact that being her bodyguard, her protector, is the closest I’ll ever get to making her mine. That is, until she asks me to marry her. But her proposal isn’t about love; it’s as practical as she is. The only way to escape an arranged marriage to a psychopath is to marry me instead. I can’t turn her down, though, so I’ll just have to figure out how I’m going to keep her once the dust settles. Because with my ring on her finger, there is no doubt. Elena is mine. Til death do us part.
This contemporary Italian mafia arranged marriage, insta love romance, is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is engulfed by darkness, danger, violence, and grit, and characters who are a dangerous, violent, morally gray alpha hero mobster who is exuding power/wealth, obsession/possessive, and his virgin heroine bride, who are both resilient, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling, the mobster's secret in this Italian mafia arranged marriage, Elena and Roarke's story, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, in this Lords of New York series, which is unputdownable, featuring the Bratva and their unique stories with a guaranteed safe, high heat, morally grey heores, and their virgin heroines, chaos/drama, suspense that is sure to leave readers on the edge of their seats, betrayal, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the mobster's secret in this Italian Mafia arranged marriage based in New York that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly dangerous, lustful, emotional, and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Mobster’s Secret by Cassi Hart is a fast-paced, swoony mob romance that leans hard into one of the most irresistible tropes out there: fake marriage to your devoted bodyguard. Emotional, protective, and deliciously intense, this installment in the Lords of New York series delivers high stakes, instant connection, and a hero who falls first—and never looks back.
Elena has never believed in love. As a doctoral student focused on her future, she’s seen enough history—and enough real-life betrayal—to know that romance rarely ends well for women. Unfortunately, her father has other plans. When he attempts to trade her future to a dangerous Russian mob boss, Elena’s only escape is a marriage of convenience. The catch? The man she chooses is Roarke—her bodyguard, her protector, and the one man she never planned to fall for.
Roarke is completely undone by Elena from the very start—literally from a photo. Haunted by his past and convinced he’s not worthy of her, he’s resigned himself to protecting her from the sidelines…until she asks him to marry her. What begins as a practical arrangement quickly becomes something far more intense, as Roarke’s unwavering devotion and fierce protectiveness make it clear that this marriage may be fake—but his feelings are anything but.
The danger escalates quickly when Elena’s family attempts to force her into a brutal mob alliance, raising the tension and giving Roarke plenty of moments to shine. His “touch her and die” energy is on full display, and the chemistry between him and Elena is immediate, addictive, and steamy. Cassi Hart excels at instalove, and this story delivers that rush without apology.
Elena and Roarke’s connection feels tender despite the chaos around them, and the guaranteed HEA leaves you satisfied and eager for more. With intriguing glimpses of future couples and the familiar pull of powerful families and dangerous secrets, The Mobster’s Secret is a must-read for fans of protective bodyguards, fake marriages, and fast, fiery mob romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elena has never believed in love. As a doctoral student focused on her future, she’s seen enough history—and enough real-life betrayal—to know that romance rarely ends well for women. Unfortunately, her father has other plans. When he attempts to trade her future to a dangerous Russian mob boss, Elena’s only escape is a marriage of convenience. The catch? The man she chooses is Roarke—her bodyguard, her protector, and the one man she never planned to fall for.
Roarke is completely undone by Elena from the very start—literally from a photo. Haunted by his past and convinced he’s not worthy of her, he’s resigned himself to protecting her from the sidelines…until she asks him to marry her. What begins as a practical arrangement quickly becomes something far more intense, as Roarke’s unwavering devotion and fierce protectiveness make it clear that this marriage may be fake—but his feelings are anything but.
The danger escalates quickly when Elena’s family attempts to force her into a brutal mob alliance, raising the tension and giving Roarke plenty of moments to shine. His “touch her and die” energy is on full display, and the chemistry between him and Elena is immediate, addictive, and steamy. Cassi Hart excels at instalove, and this story delivers that rush without apology.
Elena and Roarke’s connection feels tender despite the chaos around them, and the guaranteed HEA leaves you satisfied and eager for more. With intriguing glimpses of future couples and the familiar pull of powerful families and dangerous secrets, The Mobster’s Secret is a must-read for fans of protective bodyguards, fake marriages, and fast, fiery mob romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
January 16, 2026⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Mobster’s Secret (Lords of New York, Book 2) by Cassi Hart
The Mobster’s Secret delivers everything I want in a mafia romance: danger, devotion, forced proximity, and a hero who is absolutely gone for his woman long before she realizes it herself.
Elena is a standout heroine—intelligent, driven, and refreshingly pragmatic. Her skepticism about love makes perfect sense given her academic background and family history, and it makes her emotional journey feel earned rather than rushed. I loved that she isn’t naïve about the world she lives in, yet still brave enough to make a bold move when her future is threatened.
Roarke? Peak protective bodyguard energy. Quiet, damaged, loyal to a fault, and deeply in love with Elena from the very beginning. His internal struggle—believing he isn’t worthy of her while being completely devoted to her safety—is classic in the best way. The fake marriage trope works beautifully here, especially because for Roarke, it’s never fake. Once that ring is on her finger, he is all in.
The chemistry between them simmers and then ignites, with high heat balanced by emotional depth. I also appreciated that the danger feels real without overwhelming the romance. The arranged marriage threat, the mafia backdrop, and Roarke’s PTSD all raise the stakes without dragging the story down.
This book is protective, possessive, and romantic in a way that feels comforting rather than toxic—very much a “touch her and die” vibe paired with genuine care and respect. If you love bodyguard-to-husband, fake marriage turning very real, and a hero who would burn the world down to keep his wife safe, The Mobster’s Secret is an easy recommendation.
Cassi Hart continues to make Lords of New York completely binge-worthy. 🔥💍🖤.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Mobster’s Secret delivers everything I want in a mafia romance: danger, devotion, forced proximity, and a hero who is absolutely gone for his woman long before she realizes it herself.
Elena is a standout heroine—intelligent, driven, and refreshingly pragmatic. Her skepticism about love makes perfect sense given her academic background and family history, and it makes her emotional journey feel earned rather than rushed. I loved that she isn’t naïve about the world she lives in, yet still brave enough to make a bold move when her future is threatened.
Roarke? Peak protective bodyguard energy. Quiet, damaged, loyal to a fault, and deeply in love with Elena from the very beginning. His internal struggle—believing he isn’t worthy of her while being completely devoted to her safety—is classic in the best way. The fake marriage trope works beautifully here, especially because for Roarke, it’s never fake. Once that ring is on her finger, he is all in.
The chemistry between them simmers and then ignites, with high heat balanced by emotional depth. I also appreciated that the danger feels real without overwhelming the romance. The arranged marriage threat, the mafia backdrop, and Roarke’s PTSD all raise the stakes without dragging the story down.
This book is protective, possessive, and romantic in a way that feels comforting rather than toxic—very much a “touch her and die” vibe paired with genuine care and respect. If you love bodyguard-to-husband, fake marriage turning very real, and a hero who would burn the world down to keep his wife safe, The Mobster’s Secret is an easy recommendation.
Cassi Hart continues to make Lords of New York completely binge-worthy. 🔥💍🖤.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 16, 2026
Roarke is struggling still with nightmares from his service days and now Matteo Rossi, a man who has been groomed to run the family business, wants to hire Roarke to provide protection for his wife’s sisters as they make their way to her to attend she and Matteo’s wedding. She’s afraid that if they don’t have protection her father could marry them to unscrupulous men to elevate his own position. She doesn’t want that to happen and she knows it could. She doesn’t trust her father at all. Matteo sends their dossiers to Roarke and as soon as he sees Elena’s picture, he’s hooked! No further thinking required. He’s taking the job! And when he gets her alone? He’s ravenous for her!
When her parents inform her she’s going to marry Yuri Balshov, she declines. He’s a creepy man and he’s at least four decades older than she is! Of course that doesn’t matter to them, but when she has her chance, she runs out of the house and sees Roarke, she runs to him and begs him to leave…now!
Roarke is furious when he hears what her father plans for Elena. NO! She is HIS! The old lecher is not going to get his hands on Elena. She begs him to marry her instead, so she won’t be sold to that despicable man!
He agrees to marry her to save her from that fate. When Yuri manages to grab Elena, he will move heaven and earth to find her. He gets help from an unlikely source…Alexei, Yuri’s son. They go to rescue Elena and Yuri pulls a gun out. In the scuffle, Alexei’s bullet finds its mark and his father is no longer a problem for anyone. But Elena is now worried. Will Roarke still want to marry her now that Yuri is dead?
It’s another winner from Cassi Hart. A solid 5 star read. This story has all the feels that you expect from Cassi…you will not be disappointed!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When her parents inform her she’s going to marry Yuri Balshov, she declines. He’s a creepy man and he’s at least four decades older than she is! Of course that doesn’t matter to them, but when she has her chance, she runs out of the house and sees Roarke, she runs to him and begs him to leave…now!
Roarke is furious when he hears what her father plans for Elena. NO! She is HIS! The old lecher is not going to get his hands on Elena. She begs him to marry her instead, so she won’t be sold to that despicable man!
He agrees to marry her to save her from that fate. When Yuri manages to grab Elena, he will move heaven and earth to find her. He gets help from an unlikely source…Alexei, Yuri’s son. They go to rescue Elena and Yuri pulls a gun out. In the scuffle, Alexei’s bullet finds its mark and his father is no longer a problem for anyone. But Elena is now worried. Will Roarke still want to marry her now that Yuri is dead?
It’s another winner from Cassi Hart. A solid 5 star read. This story has all the feels that you expect from Cassi…you will not be disappointed!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2026
From Protection To FOREVER LOVE 💕
Mobsters Secret : Lords Of New York Book 2 ; Cassi Hart Tells The Story of The Second Sister In The Marino Family ! Different Than The First One Where Her Sister Believed In LOVE 💕 ! Still Her Family Betrothed Her Someone She Didn’t Know Or Want ! This One Doesn’t Believe In Love 💕 and Her Family Betrothed Her To Someone So , Old , Evil , And Violent ! She Couldn’t Let it Happen ! Turning To Her , Handsome ! Protective ! Bodyguard ! Asking Him To Marry Her ! Can He Save Her From This Terrible Position Her Family Put Her In ? Will She Finally Believe In LOVE 🥰 ! Elena Marino Was One Of The Daughters In The Marion Family . They Used There Daughters To There Advantage To Get Further ahead In Business Dealings . Not Caring About The Consequences For There Daughters Lives, Safety , Or Happiness ! Betrothed To The Head Of The Russian Bratva Yuri Balshov A Sixty Year Old Man Going On His 5 Wife ! Roark O’Shea Owned His Own Protection Service Company With His Family . His Family Was from Ireland . He Had been in The Military where he came back With Terrible Nightmares ! Making Him Feel Not Worthy To Marry someone ! Elena and Roarke meet when Matteo Rossi Her Sisters Husband Hires Him To Be Her Bodyguard ! Watching Her and Making Sure To Is Protected They Both Start Go Feel An Attraction ! There It Begins ! When Her Parents Force The Marriage She Asks Him Yo Marry Her ! What Can He Say But Yes ! He Would Never Let Harm Come To Her ! Both Needing Each Other ! FINDING LOVE 💕 AND COMFORT ! HIS PROTECTION ! KEEPING HER SAFE ! Warms Your Heart ❤️ ! A Feel Good Story !
Mobsters Secret : Lords Of New York Book 2 ; Cassi Hart Tells The Story of The Second Sister In The Marino Family ! Different Than The First One Where Her Sister Believed In LOVE 💕 ! Still Her Family Betrothed Her Someone She Didn’t Know Or Want ! This One Doesn’t Believe In Love 💕 and Her Family Betrothed Her To Someone So , Old , Evil , And Violent ! She Couldn’t Let it Happen ! Turning To Her , Handsome ! Protective ! Bodyguard ! Asking Him To Marry Her ! Can He Save Her From This Terrible Position Her Family Put Her In ? Will She Finally Believe In LOVE 🥰 ! Elena Marino Was One Of The Daughters In The Marion Family . They Used There Daughters To There Advantage To Get Further ahead In Business Dealings . Not Caring About The Consequences For There Daughters Lives, Safety , Or Happiness ! Betrothed To The Head Of The Russian Bratva Yuri Balshov A Sixty Year Old Man Going On His 5 Wife ! Roark O’Shea Owned His Own Protection Service Company With His Family . His Family Was from Ireland . He Had been in The Military where he came back With Terrible Nightmares ! Making Him Feel Not Worthy To Marry someone ! Elena and Roarke meet when Matteo Rossi Her Sisters Husband Hires Him To Be Her Bodyguard ! Watching Her and Making Sure To Is Protected They Both Start Go Feel An Attraction ! There It Begins ! When Her Parents Force The Marriage She Asks Him Yo Marry Her ! What Can He Say But Yes ! He Would Never Let Harm Come To Her ! Both Needing Each Other ! FINDING LOVE 💕 AND COMFORT ! HIS PROTECTION ! KEEPING HER SAFE ! Warms Your Heart ❤️ ! A Feel Good Story !
January 14, 2026
Short but addictive so hang on you won’t put it down until the last page has been turned. Roarke sexy as all get out broken soldier who feels like he failed his unit while out in the desert, yet the nightmare hasn’t left him no matter how many years pass rarely sleeps and when he gets a call from mob boss to hire his security firm as a security detail to protect his sister-in-law. Elena is working on her doctorate degree with a sister who doesn’t want her involved with the mafia in anyway so Matteo the boss reaches out to request the protection services the only thing Roarke doesn’t work with his kind usually but takes the information to read over it intending to refuse the job until he sees her picture knowing she belongs with him so accepting the job is his only option. Elena the second oldest doesn’t believe in love really she feels like believes it allows men to control you, sex and love are two different things because that is all she has seen growing up in a home where her parents were married she has three sister but yet her parents dislike one another, treat one another badly, so she has read what love should be in books but her goal is to become a history professor despite her dreams her parents inform her she is to be married to the pakhan but a horrible individual who has been married four times prior and all his previous wives have died she feels she won’t make it to her next birthday, will she reach her sister’s husband in time, will Roarke risk his company saving her, will her father really get what he deserves I mean really so not father of the year, and will she find the happiness she wasn’t looking for?
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book 2 in Cassi Hart's Lords of New York Mafia Series is Sofia's Sister Elena and her Irish bodyguard Roarke's story.
Now that Sofia is happily married, Elena's parents are still striving to climb the social ladder and become more powerful.
They have arranged another marriage of convenience, which unfortunately includes Elena!
Once home from Sofia and Matteo's second wedding, Elena is summoned to see her parents.
She is cut off from Roarke and when she realises why, with her parents holding a marriage license in their hands and demanding she marry Yuri Balshov who is the pakhan of a NYC bratva family. An elderly man who is known for his cruelty and the fact that all his previous wives have mysteriously "died" . Why would they want Elena with such a man??!!
Elena plans her escape from her parents home, straight into the arms of Roarke.
She demands he "save" her from her parents and when she suggests he marry her....he obliges. (Of course!!) Roarke has had deep seated feelings for Elena since the first time he saw her, so it was no hardship for him to fill her request.
Both have insta attraction towards each other, and of course our pure Elena wants Roarke to help her with her virginity!! Hell YEH!!
Hot and spicy in all the right places as Roarke makes sure he consummates his marriage to Elena.
As with all mafia stories there has to be some drama and Yuri wants Elena, whether she is married to Roarke or not.....
An overall satisfying quick read that ticks all the boxes!
Now that Sofia is happily married, Elena's parents are still striving to climb the social ladder and become more powerful.
They have arranged another marriage of convenience, which unfortunately includes Elena!
Once home from Sofia and Matteo's second wedding, Elena is summoned to see her parents.
She is cut off from Roarke and when she realises why, with her parents holding a marriage license in their hands and demanding she marry Yuri Balshov who is the pakhan of a NYC bratva family. An elderly man who is known for his cruelty and the fact that all his previous wives have mysteriously "died" . Why would they want Elena with such a man??!!
Elena plans her escape from her parents home, straight into the arms of Roarke.
She demands he "save" her from her parents and when she suggests he marry her....he obliges. (Of course!!) Roarke has had deep seated feelings for Elena since the first time he saw her, so it was no hardship for him to fill her request.
Both have insta attraction towards each other, and of course our pure Elena wants Roarke to help her with her virginity!! Hell YEH!!
Hot and spicy in all the right places as Roarke makes sure he consummates his marriage to Elena.
As with all mafia stories there has to be some drama and Yuri wants Elena, whether she is married to Roarke or not.....
An overall satisfying quick read that ticks all the boxes!
Review of advance copy
Absolute perfection wrapped in a short read! There's, honestly, nothing i didn't love about this book. It checked all my book boxes and then some. So beyond good!
The story centers around Elena and Roarke. Roarke is hired by Elena's new brother-in-law, Matteo, who is a mafia don, to be a bodyguard for her and her sisters. Roarke wasn't going to take the job, but the second he seen Elena's picture, he couldn't turn the job down. He wanted her.
Elena has an attraction to her bodyguard, but she knows nothing could ever come of it. Besides, seeing how cold her parents' marriage is, she has no faith in love. Unexpectedly, things happen between her and Roarke, but he puts the breaks on it before things go too far. However, Elena believes it's because he didn't really want her, which couldn't be further from the truth. The following day, Elena is requested home by her parents, only to learn she's being forced to marry a horrible man, Yuri Balshov, the NYC bratva pakhan, who's four decades older, all for the sake of power gain. She knows if the marriage happens, she'll end up dead with all the terrible things she's heard about Yuri, so she turns to Roarke for help, help in the form of marriage. Will this unconventional marriage lead to a happily ever after beyond their wildest dreams, or is it the beginning of the end for Roarke and Elena.
This was, by far, one of the best short reads I've ever read. The plot, the spice, EVERYTHING was done perfectly. I cannot recommend this enough!! I'd give ten stars if I could.
The story centers around Elena and Roarke. Roarke is hired by Elena's new brother-in-law, Matteo, who is a mafia don, to be a bodyguard for her and her sisters. Roarke wasn't going to take the job, but the second he seen Elena's picture, he couldn't turn the job down. He wanted her.
Elena has an attraction to her bodyguard, but she knows nothing could ever come of it. Besides, seeing how cold her parents' marriage is, she has no faith in love. Unexpectedly, things happen between her and Roarke, but he puts the breaks on it before things go too far. However, Elena believes it's because he didn't really want her, which couldn't be further from the truth. The following day, Elena is requested home by her parents, only to learn she's being forced to marry a horrible man, Yuri Balshov, the NYC bratva pakhan, who's four decades older, all for the sake of power gain. She knows if the marriage happens, she'll end up dead with all the terrible things she's heard about Yuri, so she turns to Roarke for help, help in the form of marriage. Will this unconventional marriage lead to a happily ever after beyond their wildest dreams, or is it the beginning of the end for Roarke and Elena.
This was, by far, one of the best short reads I've ever read. The plot, the spice, EVERYTHING was done perfectly. I cannot recommend this enough!! I'd give ten stars if I could.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2026
A Marriage of Convenience with Real Stakes and Real Feelings!
The Mobster’s Secret hooked me fast and didn’t let go. This is one of those stories where the setup is tense from page one, but the emotional payoff is what really sticks.
Elena is refreshingly practical—smart, focused, and skeptical about love for very good reasons. I loved that she isn’t swooning for the idea of romance; she’s trying to survive and protect her future. Watching her be forced into an impossible choice, then turn it into something on her own terms, made her a strong and believable heroine.
Roarke is the definition of quiet intensity. He’s loyal, scarred, and painfully aware of his own flaws, which makes his devotion hit harder. His struggle—wanting Elena while believing he doesn’t deserve her—adds real depth to the bodyguard-turned-husband trope. The fake marriage doesn’t feel gimmicky here; it feels necessary, dangerous, and emotional.
What really worked for me was how the relationship evolves. The tension between duty and desire, protection and possession, felt earned. Their connection grows in the small moments as much as the high-stakes ones, and when Roarke finally claims Elena as his wife, it carries weight far beyond the ring.
If you enjoy mafia romance with protective heroes, smart heroines, and a fake marriage that turns into something fierce and genuine, this one delivers. It’s intense, emotional, and very hard to put down.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Mobster’s Secret hooked me fast and didn’t let go. This is one of those stories where the setup is tense from page one, but the emotional payoff is what really sticks.
Elena is refreshingly practical—smart, focused, and skeptical about love for very good reasons. I loved that she isn’t swooning for the idea of romance; she’s trying to survive and protect her future. Watching her be forced into an impossible choice, then turn it into something on her own terms, made her a strong and believable heroine.
Roarke is the definition of quiet intensity. He’s loyal, scarred, and painfully aware of his own flaws, which makes his devotion hit harder. His struggle—wanting Elena while believing he doesn’t deserve her—adds real depth to the bodyguard-turned-husband trope. The fake marriage doesn’t feel gimmicky here; it feels necessary, dangerous, and emotional.
What really worked for me was how the relationship evolves. The tension between duty and desire, protection and possession, felt earned. Their connection grows in the small moments as much as the high-stakes ones, and when Roarke finally claims Elena as his wife, it carries weight far beyond the ring.
If you enjoy mafia romance with protective heroes, smart heroines, and a fake marriage that turns into something fierce and genuine, this one delivers. It’s intense, emotional, and very hard to put down.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**Never Wanted Love!**
"Mobster’s Secret" is the second book in the Lords of New York series. When Roarke receives a call from Matteo, the ruthless mobster, he is asked to hire his family’s security team to protect Matteo’s sister-in-law. Roarke never expected to fall for Elena the moment he saw her photo; he knew she was meant to be his. However, as the second daughter, Elena has always prioritized her studies and has never wanted to find love, especially after witnessing her parents’ troubled marriage growing up.
After meeting Roarke, she feels a connection to him that she has never experienced before. When her parents put her in a dangerous situation with the Pakhan Bratva, Roarke decides to enter into a fake marriage to keep Elena safe. As they navigate their circumstances, the lines between fake and real begin to blur, and they can no longer deny their attraction to each other. The tension between them sparks as danger closes in.
I couldn’t put down Roarke and Elena’s short instalove story; it kept me on the edge of my seat. The book is packed with family drama, suspense, and entertaining banter from Roarke's side. It features just the right amount of a possessive, protective alpha male and a strong, independent female lead, along with plenty of spice, making it enjoyable to read in one sitting. I am excited to see what happens next in the series as we learn more about the characters!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"Mobster’s Secret" is the second book in the Lords of New York series. When Roarke receives a call from Matteo, the ruthless mobster, he is asked to hire his family’s security team to protect Matteo’s sister-in-law. Roarke never expected to fall for Elena the moment he saw her photo; he knew she was meant to be his. However, as the second daughter, Elena has always prioritized her studies and has never wanted to find love, especially after witnessing her parents’ troubled marriage growing up.
After meeting Roarke, she feels a connection to him that she has never experienced before. When her parents put her in a dangerous situation with the Pakhan Bratva, Roarke decides to enter into a fake marriage to keep Elena safe. As they navigate their circumstances, the lines between fake and real begin to blur, and they can no longer deny their attraction to each other. The tension between them sparks as danger closes in.
I couldn’t put down Roarke and Elena’s short instalove story; it kept me on the edge of my seat. The book is packed with family drama, suspense, and entertaining banter from Roarke's side. It features just the right amount of a possessive, protective alpha male and a strong, independent female lead, along with plenty of spice, making it enjoyable to read in one sitting. I am excited to see what happens next in the series as we learn more about the characters!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2026
Elena’s sister Sofia is married to mob boss Matteo Rossi, and wouldn’t you know it, their arranged marriage turned into something real. Elena, however, is not a romantic in any way, thinking of love as a chemical reaction with a temporary high.
And then came Roarke. He’s her bodyguard, employed by Matteo to watch over Elena. Now she’s realizing there might be something to this love thing.
There’s the hurdle of her parents coldly forcing her into an engagement with a sixty-year-old bratva leader, and it’s just the impetus she needs to find someone else to marry, and fast. First choice? Roarke.
This book is a bit darker towards the end, but don’t worry, there are only happy endings here. Roarke was all in with Elena just from looking at her picture. He knew he’d do whatever it took to keep her safe, and to make her his. I love seeing Elena discover that being in love is not the curse she took it for, and is definitely not just a temporary high. Her chemistry with Roarke is instant, which steams up the story.
I really enjoyed this story. That’s probably because this author is one of my favorites, and I’ll read anything she writes. If you like steam, you’ll find it here, but that steam does come from a place of love, and it’s important to point that out.
I’m looking forward to seeing what the author has in store for the rest of the series. I imagine a lot of it will be interconnected, so it will be fun to see who falls in love next.
And then came Roarke. He’s her bodyguard, employed by Matteo to watch over Elena. Now she’s realizing there might be something to this love thing.
There’s the hurdle of her parents coldly forcing her into an engagement with a sixty-year-old bratva leader, and it’s just the impetus she needs to find someone else to marry, and fast. First choice? Roarke.
This book is a bit darker towards the end, but don’t worry, there are only happy endings here. Roarke was all in with Elena just from looking at her picture. He knew he’d do whatever it took to keep her safe, and to make her his. I love seeing Elena discover that being in love is not the curse she took it for, and is definitely not just a temporary high. Her chemistry with Roarke is instant, which steams up the story.
I really enjoyed this story. That’s probably because this author is one of my favorites, and I’ll read anything she writes. If you like steam, you’ll find it here, but that steam does come from a place of love, and it’s important to point that out.
I’m looking forward to seeing what the author has in store for the rest of the series. I imagine a lot of it will be interconnected, so it will be fun to see who falls in love next.
Review of advance copy
The Mobster’s Secret by Cassi Hart was such a fun follow-up in the Lords of New York series. This book focuses on Elena (one of the sisters from book one) and Roarke, who’s part of the Irish security team hired to protect her and her sisters—and yes, it delivers on the fake marriage with my bodyguard trope in the best way.
Roarke falls first (and basically falls from a photo), and honestly, that instant devotion is one of my favorite things about Cassi Hart’s books. Elena falls fast too, and their chemistry is immediate and addictive. This is insta-love done exactly how I like it—no dragging things out, just intense feelings and protective vibes right from the start.
The stakes get high when Elena’s parents try to sell her off to a dangerous, unhinged Bratva Pakhan who’s more than willing to kidnap her to get what he wants. Roarke’s protectiveness really shines here, and the tension kept me glued to the pages.
I also loved the little glimpses of future characters sprinkled throughout the story. They’re just enough to get you excited and absolutely chomping at the bit for the next book. If you love fast-paced mob romance, fake marriages, devoted bodyguards, and insta-love you can’t get enough of, this one is a must-read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Roarke falls first (and basically falls from a photo), and honestly, that instant devotion is one of my favorite things about Cassi Hart’s books. Elena falls fast too, and their chemistry is immediate and addictive. This is insta-love done exactly how I like it—no dragging things out, just intense feelings and protective vibes right from the start.
The stakes get high when Elena’s parents try to sell her off to a dangerous, unhinged Bratva Pakhan who’s more than willing to kidnap her to get what he wants. Roarke’s protectiveness really shines here, and the tension kept me glued to the pages.
I also loved the little glimpses of future characters sprinkled throughout the story. They’re just enough to get you excited and absolutely chomping at the bit for the next book. If you love fast-paced mob romance, fake marriages, devoted bodyguards, and insta-love you can’t get enough of, this one is a must-read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Elena comes from a powerful, organized crime family and does not believe in love. The family is all about arranged marriages, and her parents don't seem to love each other. Along comes Roarke, hired to watch over her. When Elena's parents try to force a marriage, Roarke is not going to let that happen.
I really liked these two. Roarke was very protective of Elena and truly cared for her. She was a survivor and was not willing to go down without a fight. The two of them brought the heat in this book, and they had a strong connection!
I'm really enjoying this series!
Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat Intensity: 3 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Roarke & Elena
Nickname: Tesoro Mio
Darkness: 1 out of 5 🖤
Type of book: MF, Fast Burn, Dual 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Standalone Novella
Title: Lords of New York Series- The Mobster's Secret: Book 2
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: HEA
*OTT Possessive, obsessive, dominant, loyal and protective MMC
*Eyes only for her
*Mafia
*Marriage of Convenience/Arranged Marriage
*V FMC
*No cheating or sharing
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+
*I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily writing this review.
I really liked these two. Roarke was very protective of Elena and truly cared for her. She was a survivor and was not willing to go down without a fight. The two of them brought the heat in this book, and they had a strong connection!
I'm really enjoying this series!
Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat Intensity: 3 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Roarke & Elena
Nickname: Tesoro Mio
Darkness: 1 out of 5 🖤
Type of book: MF, Fast Burn, Dual 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Standalone Novella
Title: Lords of New York Series- The Mobster's Secret: Book 2
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: HEA
*OTT Possessive, obsessive, dominant, loyal and protective MMC
*Eyes only for her
*Mafia
*Marriage of Convenience/Arranged Marriage
*V FMC
*No cheating or sharing
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+
*I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily writing this review.
Review of advance copy
The Mobster's Secret, the second title in the Lords Of New York series is another great read by Cassi Hart.
Again, the plot of this mafia instalove romance and the blend of protectiveness, spice, drama and suspense, had me hooked quickly.
Elena, the second daughter in the Marino family gets ambushed with an arranged marriage to a Bratva pakhan and turns to Roarke, the older, protection specialist and her bodyguard for help in the form of a fake marriage.
Both Roarke and Elena are engaging, strong main characters with him battling an instant attraction, and her, presenting a strong sense of determination for self-preservation whilst still trying to protect her younger sisters without upsetting the balance of power amongst the mafia families provide an intriguing story.
The chemistry and steam that develop once Roarke and Elena marry at city hall sizzles on the wedding night and once danger makes an appearance true and deep feelings become apparent leading to the satisfying HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Again, the plot of this mafia instalove romance and the blend of protectiveness, spice, drama and suspense, had me hooked quickly.
Elena, the second daughter in the Marino family gets ambushed with an arranged marriage to a Bratva pakhan and turns to Roarke, the older, protection specialist and her bodyguard for help in the form of a fake marriage.
Both Roarke and Elena are engaging, strong main characters with him battling an instant attraction, and her, presenting a strong sense of determination for self-preservation whilst still trying to protect her younger sisters without upsetting the balance of power amongst the mafia families provide an intriguing story.
The chemistry and steam that develop once Roarke and Elena marry at city hall sizzles on the wedding night and once danger makes an appearance true and deep feelings become apparent leading to the satisfying HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 14, 2026
4.5 stars
This is book two in the author’s Lords of New York series featuring the most powerful crime families in New York. Unless I missed something however, the only crime family mentioned here (with the exception of the bad guy) was the Rossi family from book one (Bride for the Mobster). Roarke, our MMC, owned a private security company with his family and was a bodyguard to our FMC, Elena, so I’m not sure unless it’s talking about the Rossi sister in laws being family.
ANYway, this is a hot little read. Not too long; probably not taking much more than an hour and a half to read but jam packed with sweetness and steam and an obsessed MMC. I absolutely loved that he wasn’t overly macho—he definitely wasn’t a pushover, don’t get me wrong, instead, he was just right. Sweet, sexy and protective of the woman he fell for at first sight, Roarke was the perfect MMC for this storyline; too bad he isn’t real. 4.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book two in the author’s Lords of New York series featuring the most powerful crime families in New York. Unless I missed something however, the only crime family mentioned here (with the exception of the bad guy) was the Rossi family from book one (Bride for the Mobster). Roarke, our MMC, owned a private security company with his family and was a bodyguard to our FMC, Elena, so I’m not sure unless it’s talking about the Rossi sister in laws being family.
ANYway, this is a hot little read. Not too long; probably not taking much more than an hour and a half to read but jam packed with sweetness and steam and an obsessed MMC. I absolutely loved that he wasn’t overly macho—he definitely wasn’t a pushover, don’t get me wrong, instead, he was just right. Sweet, sexy and protective of the woman he fell for at first sight, Roarke was the perfect MMC for this storyline; too bad he isn’t real. 4.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 14, 2026
After Elena’s sister Sophia married Matteo Rossi, he wanted to protect his sisters-in-law and hired Roarke’s Security Agency for the job. Roarke was hesitant to work for a mafia family until he saw Elena’s picture and fell completely in love at first sight. While Matteo and Sophia were on their honeymoon, Elena’s parents requested her to come to the house alone. Of course Roarke would not allow that but he wasn’t allowed in the meeting. Her father ambushed Elena and had contracted with a Russian Bratva leader to marry Elena that very afternoon. The Russian was a 60 yr old man known as a psychopath and was suspected of killing a couple of his wives. Elena is able to escape the house with Roarke and convinces him to marry her to keep the Russian away from her family. An exciting and suspenseful storyline with intense and believable characters.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This one is Roarke & Elena's story. Roarke is a bodyguard without mafia connections. There were some issues still with this but the story between the two main characters seemed to be a bit smoother. There was one scene at the beginning of the book which should have been rewritten to not just wham bam you're both here even though the prior events make it a complete out of body leap of faith. The other issue revolves around the Rossi & Marino families. The Rossi family is supposed to be powerful, and Matteo threaten the Marino parents if they intervene or try something with the girls and yet, they did just that without fear. Even though Matteo was away, they could have gone to his family for protection, yet they didn't. It's just a bit off. Some tweaks would have helped this flow better. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
❤️ Roarke & Elena
ARC Review
The Mobster's Secret by Cassi Hart, Book 2 in Lords of New York Series and literally takes place at the same time Bride for the Mobster is ending. (Cassi does a mini back story recap.) As the title states *Mobster* but Roarke is Elena's bodyguard (and is the owner of an elite worldwide protection services company)... he isn't a Mobster or connected to the Mafia. 🧐 🤔 It is an ägë-gäp (12 years), 14% in - first ƙïṣṣ & öṛäl for Elena, some suspense happens, vïrgïn FMC, continued horrible greediness from Elena's Parents, slight opposite-attracts, Roarke is obessed with Elena, 43% in - ṣëxƴ tïmës finally happen füllƴ, (...ṣlämṣ föwäṛɗ, ïmpälịṅg më... 🙄). I know I am definitely tired hearing that description. There is an HEA and an Epilogue - 5 years in the future.
ARC Review
The Mobster's Secret by Cassi Hart, Book 2 in Lords of New York Series and literally takes place at the same time Bride for the Mobster is ending. (Cassi does a mini back story recap.) As the title states *Mobster* but Roarke is Elena's bodyguard (and is the owner of an elite worldwide protection services company)... he isn't a Mobster or connected to the Mafia. 🧐 🤔 It is an ägë-gäp (12 years), 14% in - first ƙïṣṣ & öṛäl for Elena, some suspense happens, vïrgïn FMC, continued horrible greediness from Elena's Parents, slight opposite-attracts, Roarke is obessed with Elena, 43% in - ṣëxƴ tïmës finally happen füllƴ, (...ṣlämṣ föwäṛɗ, ïmpälịṅg më... 🙄). I know I am definitely tired hearing that description. There is an HEA and an Epilogue - 5 years in the future.
January 14, 2026
In this book we meet Elena ( Sofia’s sister from book 1) who has been assigned a bodyguard by her brother in law Matteo( the mmc from book 1) her bodyguard is Roarke ex soldier now running the family protection company, dealing with demons which is just lightly touched upon. One look at her and he becomes besotted and it looks like the feeling is mutual when Elena is desperate for his help when she learns her parents ( who are despicable human beings btw) want to marry her off to a much, much older and dangerous Bratva leader. Their journey to a hea is filled with great MCs, drama,great sibling relationships some we met in book 1 but the introduction of Roarkes siblings brought extra laughter and sassiness particularly Fiona, and the spice was an added bonus too. Can’t wait for the next story.
January 18, 2026
Storyline is gripping, intense and emotionally charged. The attraction and close proximity between a bodyguard and his client proves to much to bear for Elena and Roarke to deny. Elena is summoned back home after attending her sister’s private wedding and sharing a passionate embrace with her bodyguard. Her parents have arranged a marriage for her with a cruel and dangerous man whom has previously been married with all of his wives dying under suspicious circumstances.
She flees with the help of her bodyguard and asks him desperately to save her from this cruel fate by marrying her.
Roarke is in love with Elena and agrees to marry her. Unfortunately danger looms ever closely and lines will be crossed in addition to new alliances being established.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She flees with the help of her bodyguard and asks him desperately to save her from this cruel fate by marrying her.
Roarke is in love with Elena and agrees to marry her. Unfortunately danger looms ever closely and lines will be crossed in addition to new alliances being established.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 18, 2026
Another fantastic Cassi Hart story. The Lord of New York series is quickly becoming a fav.
For Elena there's no thoughts of love. She's a doctoral student who's focused on her future and independence, she's been betrayed too many times. Her father has plans for Elena's future and they include an arranged marriage to a Russian mob boss. She will not go quietly and figures out a way out. The way is a marriage of convenience and the lucky guy.... her bodyguard, Roarke. Problem, she falls for him. Roarke's been all in for Elena from the beginning but he's resigned himself to be her silent protector. That is until she pops the question to him. That's when the feelings come out and Elena finds that Roarke is completely in love with her and he realizes that she is completely in love with Roarke.
For Elena there's no thoughts of love. She's a doctoral student who's focused on her future and independence, she's been betrayed too many times. Her father has plans for Elena's future and they include an arranged marriage to a Russian mob boss. She will not go quietly and figures out a way out. The way is a marriage of convenience and the lucky guy.... her bodyguard, Roarke. Problem, she falls for him. Roarke's been all in for Elena from the beginning but he's resigned himself to be her silent protector. That is until she pops the question to him. That's when the feelings come out and Elena finds that Roarke is completely in love with her and he realizes that she is completely in love with Roarke.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was a really good and quick read for me. I could not put it down as it took a turn I was not expecting. Roarke is perfection, not perfect. And I love it so much. He’s got damage and struggles. But he loves fiercely and is loyal to a fault. He will do anything to protect the people he cares about and their loved ones too. Elena is just as dedicated to the ones she cares about. While not understanding various aspects of life (emotions, behaviors, desires) she feels them intensely and with her whole self. I cared about all of the characters, side and man alike. In such a short read it’s amazing how much character development and detailed scenes Cassi managed to get. And I applaud the ending. I didn’t know how things were gonna go but I am so happy with how it did. More please!
January 13, 2026
Book 2 of the Lords of New York series. Can be read as a standalone.
'Lords of New York is a highly addictive series about four powerful organized crime families. Each book is a standalone, high heat, virgin heroines, and the powerful men they captivate.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and dark and obsessive and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. All in all a great addition to the series. 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.
'Lords of New York is a highly addictive series about four powerful organized crime families. Each book is a standalone, high heat, virgin heroines, and the powerful men they captivate.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and dark and obsessive and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. All in all a great addition to the series. 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.
January 13, 2026
This was a fun follow-up to book one. Roarke gets hired by Matteo (book one) to guard his new sisters-in-law. Roarke, upon seeing Elena's pic for the first time, is fully smitten. Sadly, her parents aren't finished with trying to use their daughters to climb the social ladder, and have planned for her to marry an old man in the Bratva who has a list of deceased wives...yikes! Of course, she runs to Roarke for safety and a quick marriage to him is their best defense against this plan ;) Expect to get caught up in the action, drama, danger and spice in this insta-love romance. I'm looking forward to the next book. Good fun!
Review of advance copy
Elena and her sisters get bodyguards after her sister Sofia married into the mafia family. Roarke is head over heals as soon as he sees Elena who is studying for her PHD but her father has his own plans for her to marry into the Russian Mafia to a man much older and had four wife’s that died mysteriously but Roarke and Elena get married just to spoil her fathers plans. It’s a good thing they both had plans for each other.
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.
January 13, 2026
An unwelcome, dangerous situation can help two people to be together, to take a leap against one's restraint, unsuitability.
Glad these two found each other because they're great for one another.
Surprisingly, a day goes by, and without a negative disruption, they can proceed with their plan. After that, they should return to their secure place and stay there until they are sure they aren't in danger.
Dumb luck that the head of crime is without backup.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Glad these two found each other because they're great for one another.
Surprisingly, a day goes by, and without a negative disruption, they can proceed with their plan. After that, they should return to their secure place and stay there until they are sure they aren't in danger.
Dumb luck that the head of crime is without backup.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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