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Her Chains Her Choice: A Power Dynamics Contract Relationship Mafia Romance
Some cages are chosen, and some monsters are worth the chains.
Emmaleen
Twenty-one days until homelessness, nineteen demerits, and one chance at $31,750.
I am laser focused on my goal of getting the hell out of Riverview, PA—and Giovanni Bavga, mob boss, secret poet, in possession of a Lambo and the world’s most amazing green eyes—is my first-class ticket. All I have to do is everything he tells me for the next seven days.
My chains, my choice... until choosing him became the only freedom worth having.
Giovanni
Power isn’t something you take—it something given.
The demerit system was supposed to control Emmaleen Rourke but apparently, Little Miss Take didn’t get the memo. Now I'm the one losing control. Men like me don't fall first. We don't fall at all. In the circles I run in, caring about someone is the most dangerous mistake a man can make.
My game, my rules... until breaking them for her became the only win that mattered.
The Last to Fall series is an intense deep dive into the psyche of possession, obsession, and what one man will do to keep the woman he loves alive. Because some cages are chosen, and some monsters are worth the chains.
Inside the pages you can
Mafia Romance
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Inferno Heat
Power Dynamics
Contract Relationship
Fish Out of Water
Trauma Bonding
Touch of Taboo
Emmaleen
Twenty-one days until homelessness, nineteen demerits, and one chance at $31,750.
I am laser focused on my goal of getting the hell out of Riverview, PA—and Giovanni Bavga, mob boss, secret poet, in possession of a Lambo and the world’s most amazing green eyes—is my first-class ticket. All I have to do is everything he tells me for the next seven days.
My chains, my choice... until choosing him became the only freedom worth having.
Giovanni
Power isn’t something you take—it something given.
The demerit system was supposed to control Emmaleen Rourke but apparently, Little Miss Take didn’t get the memo. Now I'm the one losing control. Men like me don't fall first. We don't fall at all. In the circles I run in, caring about someone is the most dangerous mistake a man can make.
My game, my rules... until breaking them for her became the only win that mattered.
The Last to Fall series is an intense deep dive into the psyche of possession, obsession, and what one man will do to keep the woman he loves alive. Because some cages are chosen, and some monsters are worth the chains.
Inside the pages you can
Mafia Romance
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Inferno Heat
Power Dynamics
Contract Relationship
Fish Out of Water
Trauma Bonding
Touch of Taboo
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2026
54 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Huss
144 books9,094 followersJ.A. Huss never wanted to be a writer and she still dreams of that elusive career as an astronaut. She originally went to school to become an equine veterinarian but soon figured out they keep horrible hours and decided to go to grad school instead. That Ph.D wasn’t all it was cracked up to be (and she really sucked at the whole scientist thing), so she dropped out and got a M.S. in forensic toxicology just to get the whole thing over with as soon as possible.
After graduation she got a job with the state of Colorado as their one and only hog farm inspector and spent her days wandering the Eastern Plains shooting the shit with farmers. After a few years of that, she got bored. And since she was a homeschool mom and actually does love science, she decided to write science textbooks and make online classes for other homeschool moms. She wrote more than two hundred of those workbooks and was the number one publisher at the online homeschool store many times, but eventually she covered every science topic she could think of and ran out of shit to say.
So in 2012 she decided to write fiction instead. That year she released her first three books and started a career that would make her a New York Times bestseller and land her on the USA Today Bestseller’s List eighteen times in the next three years. Her books have sold millions of copies all over the world, the audio version of her semi-autobiographical book, Eighteen, was nominated for a Voice Arts Award and an Audie award in 2016 and 2017 respectively, her audiobook Mr. Perfect was nominated for a Voice Arts Award in 2017, and her book, Taking Turns, was nominated for an Audie Award in 2018. Johnathan McClain is her first (and only) writing partner and even though they are worlds apart in just about every way imaginable, it works.
She lives on a ranch in Central Colorado with her family.
After graduation she got a job with the state of Colorado as their one and only hog farm inspector and spent her days wandering the Eastern Plains shooting the shit with farmers. After a few years of that, she got bored. And since she was a homeschool mom and actually does love science, she decided to write science textbooks and make online classes for other homeschool moms. She wrote more than two hundred of those workbooks and was the number one publisher at the online homeschool store many times, but eventually she covered every science topic she could think of and ran out of shit to say.
So in 2012 she decided to write fiction instead. That year she released her first three books and started a career that would make her a New York Times bestseller and land her on the USA Today Bestseller’s List eighteen times in the next three years. Her books have sold millions of copies all over the world, the audio version of her semi-autobiographical book, Eighteen, was nominated for a Voice Arts Award and an Audie award in 2016 and 2017 respectively, her audiobook Mr. Perfect was nominated for a Voice Arts Award in 2017, and her book, Taking Turns, was nominated for an Audie Award in 2018. Johnathan McClain is her first (and only) writing partner and even though they are worlds apart in just about every way imaginable, it works.
She lives on a ranch in Central Colorado with her family.
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April 23, 2026
Giovanni is control personified, he never strays outside the lines. He plans for every scenario. Emmaleen is chaos, pure and simple. She is intelligent, but still a walking disaster. When they play this game, the stakes are high. Will either of them win or will they both lose?
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm obsessed with this book. I devoured it in one sitting. Excellent narrative and plot. The characters were phenomenal. Loved the MMC Giovanni, he's always calculating, planning and making moves. And Emmaleen is an excellent FMC, guarded, aware, fierce, doesn't give in, and is calculating. These two characters are perfectly matched. I loved their dynamics and chemistry. This author writes in such an eloquent way that the words hit with precision, hitting their mark to deliver details and/or points. The poise is controlled, balanced and deliberate. It is clear and concise giving you verbiage that paints a visual image in your mind that you can picture what is happening or even what's going on. The words come across poetically at times while other times they come out with precision aiming for a specific point to be made. It is well thought out planned verbiage to drive home the bigger overall picture. It draws you in, sinks its claws into you, and holds you captive from the very first chapter. This story progresses with a nice, even pacing. The buildup, the secrets, the revelations, the twists and turns all hit the mark at the perfect moment. I was quite literally glued to the pages deciphering and unraveling the key points of the plot. I could sense what these characters were feeling. I also felt that build up to so much more and got that feeling of what was potentially coming, the way things were possibly going to end, and how it was going to all pull together. The plot in this is layered with information that eventually leads up to the final nail in the coffin that comes in the end. An unexpected yet satisfying ending. It's a masterfully crafted narrative. It interrogates you with the words in a good way. It takes a hold of you reeling you in into the story dropping tidbits of information along the way, feeding that need to know more. When you read words such as Cerebus with a bad perm, liquid asphalt, apex predators, human black hole, gargling gravel, a fever dream, terrified woodpecker, psychological taffy, caffeine-addicted kangaroo, and Satan gargling gravel, it's like a word mural of varying things that are occurring in this narrative that delivers a carefully thought out description. The phrasing paints a vivid image that pushes the artistic quality of the writing. Overall, this book is a brilliant well crafted masterpiece. I cannot wait for the next part of the story. I highly recommend grabbing a copy of this. Thanks so much to the author for a copy of this. All thoughts and opinions are my own and freely expressed.
Favorite lines:
"Freedom isn't found in escape, but in the deliberate choice of which chains to wear."
"Little Miss Take isn't just hiding behind words-- she's wielding them like weapons."
Favorite lines:
"Freedom isn't found in escape, but in the deliberate choice of which chains to wear."
"Little Miss Take isn't just hiding behind words-- she's wielding them like weapons."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
While there is some romantic elements, and some Mafia activities, this book is primarily about the power. She a bit mysterious, and He notices her right away. Knows she's different. She's days away from homelessness and just got fired from her minimum paying job when he steps in and makes an offer she really can't afford to reject. To him, it's about control and letting everyone know just who's in charge. She just needs to survive. Both characters are closed off. Not revealing much about themselves. Both are smart though, and are able to get glimpses between the cracks in the walls they've put up. As far as the Mafia angle goes, there isn't too much going on. It's mostly threats in the air, but there is some death. As for the romance, well... it's there but it's also not. He's not trying to woo her. She's not trying to impress him. Neither want's to like the other, and they try to deny any feelings they may have. There is some sexual content, but it's more about that power, once again, and part of the deal... not so much because of the attraction and want. (Though that could just be their denial.) It's quit elegantly written. (Heck, there are even poems included.) ;) There is a book two coming (not sure how many total are planned,) so this isn't the end of their story, but it also doesn't end with a cliffhanger, so you can finish it here if you so desire and won't feel like you are missing out on anything. If Mafia romances aren't your jam, you could probably still enjoy this one as that Mafia parts aren't too overwhelming. It reads a little more like a Billionaire romance with a little more danger. It alternates POVs. Due to some of the subject matters, this is more suited for mature readers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is quintessential JA Huss, taken to the next level. When the author says this story is a power dynamics contract relationship, she's not playing around. So much of this first book exuded power in many different ways. Gianni Bavga is power, personified. Every aspect of his life is a thesis on how the extreme control he exerts in his life translates to power in every activity. From the conversations he has, to the businesses he controls, to the very image he projects to the masses, the image of power proceeds him in every room he enters.
Gianni's plan is to exert all of that power over Emmaleen Rourke when he hires her to be his personal assistant, but Emmaleen has plans of her own. Rising to every challenge Gianni throws at her, their relationship starts as one of what appears to be very cat and mouse, but Emmaleen knocks Gianni off balance very early in his plans.
I loved Gianni's use of the demerit system in his game of power over Emmaleen, but she catches on to his game very quickly. She is a very smart woman, a genuine wordsmith who turns the tables on Gianni when she uses her extensive knowledge of words to turn the tables on him and she starts gathering information of her own, all through reading between the lines of what he tells her.
Getting involved with an infamous mafia family is like entering a whole other world for Emmaleen, but in reality, the concept of a man on a power trip is not new to her at all, unfortunately. And when Gianni uncovers this detail, it shifts the power dynamic between them. I wouldn't classify this as a romance in the traditional sense, but we were getting there in the final few chapters, and after that ending, I think we'll see much more of one in the next book.
Gianni's plan is to exert all of that power over Emmaleen Rourke when he hires her to be his personal assistant, but Emmaleen has plans of her own. Rising to every challenge Gianni throws at her, their relationship starts as one of what appears to be very cat and mouse, but Emmaleen knocks Gianni off balance very early in his plans.
I loved Gianni's use of the demerit system in his game of power over Emmaleen, but she catches on to his game very quickly. She is a very smart woman, a genuine wordsmith who turns the tables on Gianni when she uses her extensive knowledge of words to turn the tables on him and she starts gathering information of her own, all through reading between the lines of what he tells her.
Getting involved with an infamous mafia family is like entering a whole other world for Emmaleen, but in reality, the concept of a man on a power trip is not new to her at all, unfortunately. And when Gianni uncovers this detail, it shifts the power dynamic between them. I wouldn't classify this as a romance in the traditional sense, but we were getting there in the final few chapters, and after that ending, I think we'll see much more of one in the next book.
April 28, 2026
“Power isn’t something you take, it’s something given.” Giovanni
“My chains, my choice…until choosing him became the only freedom worth having.” Emmaleen
Wow!!! It’s been three days since I finished reading and listening to this powerful story and my head is still spinning with the impact it had on me and my heart is still wrapped around these two damaged characters.
My first impression of Giovanni was that he needed some chaos in his ordered world. I saw him as selfish, demanding, closed off, and too rich for the real world. He really intrigued me. There were a lot of whys that begged to be answered. I knew there had to be more under that Tom Ford suit, and there is.
Emmaleen is a bada$$ chick who is determined to get away from her desperate situation. It’s clear that she has had a lot of setbacks but she’s not giving up. When she’s offered $31,750 by Giovanni to do whatever he tells her to do for seven days, she makes the choice to accept his offer. Although she’s not used to following orders, how bad can it be? She quickly finds out. He has plotted a series of tasks for Emmaleen to complete that challenges her in ways she never anticipated. She meets them with the tenacity of a bulldog, earning Giovanni’s respect and more. 🔥
This is the perfect story for a wordsmith like JA Huss to write. She was able to immediately involve me in the story and hold me in her web of multifaceted characters who evoked every emotion. Julie is also a master at creating visual imagery with her words.
I also highly recommend the audiobook of Her Chains Her Choice. The narration by Jason Clark and Samantha Summers is the chef’s kiss!!💋 I can’t wait for the next book in this series!!
“My chains, my choice…until choosing him became the only freedom worth having.” Emmaleen
Wow!!! It’s been three days since I finished reading and listening to this powerful story and my head is still spinning with the impact it had on me and my heart is still wrapped around these two damaged characters.
My first impression of Giovanni was that he needed some chaos in his ordered world. I saw him as selfish, demanding, closed off, and too rich for the real world. He really intrigued me. There were a lot of whys that begged to be answered. I knew there had to be more under that Tom Ford suit, and there is.
Emmaleen is a bada$$ chick who is determined to get away from her desperate situation. It’s clear that she has had a lot of setbacks but she’s not giving up. When she’s offered $31,750 by Giovanni to do whatever he tells her to do for seven days, she makes the choice to accept his offer. Although she’s not used to following orders, how bad can it be? She quickly finds out. He has plotted a series of tasks for Emmaleen to complete that challenges her in ways she never anticipated. She meets them with the tenacity of a bulldog, earning Giovanni’s respect and more. 🔥
This is the perfect story for a wordsmith like JA Huss to write. She was able to immediately involve me in the story and hold me in her web of multifaceted characters who evoked every emotion. Julie is also a master at creating visual imagery with her words.
I also highly recommend the audiobook of Her Chains Her Choice. The narration by Jason Clark and Samantha Summers is the chef’s kiss!!💋 I can’t wait for the next book in this series!!
May 4, 2026
Reviewed an advance copy received from the author
I have not read a book from J.A Huss in quite some time. I take a chance on this one and was not by any means disappointed. From the first page to the cliffhanger of an ending, I was absolutely capitative by this storyline and the characters.
If you are looking for a storyline where you get a mafia romance, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, power dynamics, contract relationship and a slow burn high heat that will have you turning the pages to see what is going to happen this is the one for you to definitely read.
You enter into a world of control, consequences, and calculated chaos with Emmaleen and Giovanni. Emmaleen is days away from being homeless and was just fired from her minimum paying job when Giovanni steps in and makes her an offer she absolutely cannot refuse. But Emmaleen is guarded aware of everything and extremely fierce. She knows something more is going on with Giovanni than him just wanting to help her.
From the moment Giovanni laid eyes on Emmaleen he knew there was something about her that he could not ignore. She is different and he couldn't walk away if he tired. But the plan is to exert all of his power over her, but she has plans of her own. Emmaleen is smart and turns the tables on Giovanni. Chaos isn't the word when it comes to these two, Emmaleen is the chaos and Giovanni is the order.
This is a storyline about obsession, possession, intensity, twists and turns with a quiet buildup of mystery. You will be captivated from the first page to the last. The chemistry is off the charts with a slow burn high heat dynamic.
I absolutely loved reading this book. The storyline alone draws you in with the power dynamics you dont see coming and the contract relationship that becomes so much more. Emmaleen and Giovanni bring the storyline to live in the most amazing way.
I could not get enough of these two and want so much more. For being the first in the last to fall series J.A Huss started this series off with quite a bang.
"My chains, my choice until choosing him became the only freedom worth having."
"Freedom isnt found in escape but in the deliberate choice of which chains to wear.
I have not read a book from J.A Huss in quite some time. I take a chance on this one and was not by any means disappointed. From the first page to the cliffhanger of an ending, I was absolutely capitative by this storyline and the characters.
If you are looking for a storyline where you get a mafia romance, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, power dynamics, contract relationship and a slow burn high heat that will have you turning the pages to see what is going to happen this is the one for you to definitely read.
You enter into a world of control, consequences, and calculated chaos with Emmaleen and Giovanni. Emmaleen is days away from being homeless and was just fired from her minimum paying job when Giovanni steps in and makes her an offer she absolutely cannot refuse. But Emmaleen is guarded aware of everything and extremely fierce. She knows something more is going on with Giovanni than him just wanting to help her.
From the moment Giovanni laid eyes on Emmaleen he knew there was something about her that he could not ignore. She is different and he couldn't walk away if he tired. But the plan is to exert all of his power over her, but she has plans of her own. Emmaleen is smart and turns the tables on Giovanni. Chaos isn't the word when it comes to these two, Emmaleen is the chaos and Giovanni is the order.
This is a storyline about obsession, possession, intensity, twists and turns with a quiet buildup of mystery. You will be captivated from the first page to the last. The chemistry is off the charts with a slow burn high heat dynamic.
I absolutely loved reading this book. The storyline alone draws you in with the power dynamics you dont see coming and the contract relationship that becomes so much more. Emmaleen and Giovanni bring the storyline to live in the most amazing way.
I could not get enough of these two and want so much more. For being the first in the last to fall series J.A Huss started this series off with quite a bang.
"My chains, my choice until choosing him became the only freedom worth having."
"Freedom isnt found in escape but in the deliberate choice of which chains to wear.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Emmaleen Rourke is going to be evicted from the homeless shelter in 21 days and she just lost her job. Mafia boss, Giovanni Bravga, is intrigued with her poise when he spies her waitressing at an event and then happens to drive by her job the next day as she’s being fired. He immediately hires her to be his assistant and so the game begins. Giovanni is all order while Emmaleen is all chaos and he’s determined to assert his control over her until she surrenders to him. What he doesn’t understand is that while Emmaleen is broke, she’s not broken, not yet, and she is determined to see her contract through to the very end. Despite him setting nearly impossible tasks with a demerit system for each failure, trying to fire her twice and taking her to a sex party, Emmaleen refuses to capitulate. The rewards system at the end of her contract with no demerits will allow her a fresh start, dependent on no one. When I started this book, I had no idea how I was going to root for this couple. I’ve been in Emmaleen’s corner from the start but Giovanni was too much to take at times until suddenly he wasn’t. Their chemistry and banter is chef’s kiss and I truly loved watching them intellectually cat and mouse each other. Giovanni seems to come alive the more time he spends with her and Emmaleen is continually fascinated by each layer he reveals to her. The book ends on a cliffhanger but like Emmaleen, I’m in it until the end. Her Chains, Her Choice, I highly recommend making it yours. I received an advanced copy of this book and am providing my 100% honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.
Oh, how excited I was to pick up this book and read it. Actually, pick it up in book form. It has been a while since I held a book and felt the magic that it always brings when you're holding the pages in your hand. I will go ahead and tell you that once you pick this book up, you will not be laying it down. This is the story of Giovanni and Emmaleen. From the moment he laid eyes on Emmaleen he knew there was something about her that he could not ignore. He knows that she is different and he couldn't walk away if he tired. She is a girl who is about to be homeless. She no longer has a job since she just got fired and the streets are not where she wants to be living. When he steps in, it is with an offer she can't refuse. So, now that I have told you how they came to meet, I don't think I can tell you much more. These are two very closed off character's that you have to discover things about as you are reading. Giovanni is all about control. Every move he makes is controlled. His thoughts are locked down and controlled. Everyone knows who is in control when he is in a room. I don't know that I would call this a love story because I'm not so sure these two know how to do feelings like that. Now that I have said that don't freak out. This book is so very good. Like I said I couldn't put it down. I had to know what was going to happen.
Oh, how excited I was to pick up this book and read it. Actually, pick it up in book form. It has been a while since I held a book and felt the magic that it always brings when you're holding the pages in your hand. I will go ahead and tell you that once you pick this book up, you will not be laying it down. This is the story of Giovanni and Emmaleen. From the moment he laid eyes on Emmaleen he knew there was something about her that he could not ignore. He knows that she is different and he couldn't walk away if he tired. She is a girl who is about to be homeless. She no longer has a job since she just got fired and the streets are not where she wants to be living. When he steps in, it is with an offer she can't refuse. So, now that I have told you how they came to meet, I don't think I can tell you much more. These are two very closed off character's that you have to discover things about as you are reading. Giovanni is all about control. Every move he makes is controlled. His thoughts are locked down and controlled. Everyone knows who is in control when he is in a room. I don't know that I would call this a love story because I'm not so sure these two know how to do feelings like that. Now that I have said that don't freak out. This book is so very good. Like I said I couldn't put it down. I had to know what was going to happen.
March 18, 2026
I received an ARC review copy from the author and this is my honest review. Thank you for the opportunity
(4.5 ⭐️ 🌶️🌶️.5)
Her Chains, Her Choice is a fast paced read, you want to keep reading to know what going to happen next!
Emmaleen is our FMC, she is homeless, working shit jobs, and about to be kicked out on the street.
Giovanni is our MMC, mob boss, arrogant, high class, acts like he owns the world!
There was a lot of descriptive writing that I didn’t feel was necessary for the story. But it does bring it more to life and gives you that feeling that you’re actually there.
Emmaleen agrees to work for Giovanni after he witnesses her completely failing at her jobs, breaking glass wear at a party, dropping a wedding cake.. Giovanni has a detailed outline of the next 7 days of her working for him, rules, punishments! If she is successful and doesn’t mess up she will receive $31,750! Life changing for Emmaleen.
Day 1 already a disaster.. because why wouldn’t it be? lol
Well day 1 turned into day 6 real fast after Giovanni taking Emmaleen to his family’s mansion and partaking in a “sex”’party, naughty time with Emmaleen against a door and by the pool.. the family reunion definitely didn’t end how he was hoping for.
And now to wait for book 2 and see what this double or nothing entails!
(4.5 ⭐️ 🌶️🌶️.5)
Her Chains, Her Choice is a fast paced read, you want to keep reading to know what going to happen next!
Emmaleen is our FMC, she is homeless, working shit jobs, and about to be kicked out on the street.
Giovanni is our MMC, mob boss, arrogant, high class, acts like he owns the world!
There was a lot of descriptive writing that I didn’t feel was necessary for the story. But it does bring it more to life and gives you that feeling that you’re actually there.
Emmaleen agrees to work for Giovanni after he witnesses her completely failing at her jobs, breaking glass wear at a party, dropping a wedding cake.. Giovanni has a detailed outline of the next 7 days of her working for him, rules, punishments! If she is successful and doesn’t mess up she will receive $31,750! Life changing for Emmaleen.
Day 1 already a disaster.. because why wouldn’t it be? lol
Well day 1 turned into day 6 real fast after Giovanni taking Emmaleen to his family’s mansion and partaking in a “sex”’party, naughty time with Emmaleen against a door and by the pool.. the family reunion definitely didn’t end how he was hoping for.
And now to wait for book 2 and see what this double or nothing entails!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my gosh!!!
It’s been a little while since I’ve read a JA Huss book and I am kicking myself because damn, I’ve forgotten how addictive her words are. From the first to the last page I was invested in everything Emmaleen and Giovani
Giovanni is cold and calculated. Always planning his moves and needing to be in control of everything around him.
Emmaleen is guarded, aware of everything and extremely fierce. No matter what she’s been through she won’t let it break her.
The two of them together? So much fun. They both test others limits, they’re equally determined to win and it’s been so exciting watching both of them try.
Their story is told in one day, they’ve know each other one single day and it is utter chaos, I loved every second of it.
JA Huss brought us a brilliant and descriptive storyline with characters that are brought to life easily. The writing flows easily and will have you hooked.
Her Chains Her Choice is a fast paced mafia romance. It’s dark, it’s delicious and utterly addictive. I couldn’t get enough.
If you love
* Enemies to Lovers
* Slow Burn / High Heat
* Power Dynamics
* Forced Proximity
* Contract Relationship
* Fish Out of Water
* Trauma Bonding
* Touch of Taboo
then you’ll enjoy this one.
It’s been a little while since I’ve read a JA Huss book and I am kicking myself because damn, I’ve forgotten how addictive her words are. From the first to the last page I was invested in everything Emmaleen and Giovani
Giovanni is cold and calculated. Always planning his moves and needing to be in control of everything around him.
Emmaleen is guarded, aware of everything and extremely fierce. No matter what she’s been through she won’t let it break her.
The two of them together? So much fun. They both test others limits, they’re equally determined to win and it’s been so exciting watching both of them try.
Their story is told in one day, they’ve know each other one single day and it is utter chaos, I loved every second of it.
JA Huss brought us a brilliant and descriptive storyline with characters that are brought to life easily. The writing flows easily and will have you hooked.
Her Chains Her Choice is a fast paced mafia romance. It’s dark, it’s delicious and utterly addictive. I couldn’t get enough.
If you love
* Enemies to Lovers
* Slow Burn / High Heat
* Power Dynamics
* Forced Proximity
* Contract Relationship
* Fish Out of Water
* Trauma Bonding
* Touch of Taboo
then you’ll enjoy this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story drops you straight into a world of control, consequences, and calculated chaos. Emmaleen is desperate, running out of time, and willing to take a risk that most people wouldn’t even consider. Giovanni, on the other hand, thrives on power and structure, until she walks in and quietly starts unravelling both.
What I loved most is how intense and intimate this feels right from the start. The power dynamics are strong, but it’s layered. There’s tension, curiosity, and this constant push-pull that keeps you turning the pages. It’s about control and what happens when control starts slipping.
The writing pulls you deep into their heads. You understand why, even when it’s messy or questionable. Giovanni’s need for order versus Emmaleen’s chaos creates this addictive contrast, and their chemistry? Immediate and undeniable, with just the right amount of danger.
There’s also a quiet buildup of mystery woven throughout that makes everything feel bigger than what’s on the surface. You can tell there’s more coming, more secrets, more emotional fallout and I’m already bracing for it.
Thank you so much JA Huss for sending me a #gifted copy.
All opinions are my own 🖤
What I loved most is how intense and intimate this feels right from the start. The power dynamics are strong, but it’s layered. There’s tension, curiosity, and this constant push-pull that keeps you turning the pages. It’s about control and what happens when control starts slipping.
The writing pulls you deep into their heads. You understand why, even when it’s messy or questionable. Giovanni’s need for order versus Emmaleen’s chaos creates this addictive contrast, and their chemistry? Immediate and undeniable, with just the right amount of danger.
There’s also a quiet buildup of mystery woven throughout that makes everything feel bigger than what’s on the surface. You can tell there’s more coming, more secrets, more emotional fallout and I’m already bracing for it.
Thank you so much JA Huss for sending me a #gifted copy.
All opinions are my own 🖤
April 29, 2026
The story is just as captivating as the illustrations in the book.
Let me start by saying I read the book before reading the kindle version. The book is beautiful. It killed me to wrinkle the pages but after starting it I couldn’t put it down. I read the entire thing in one sitting and now I’m patiently waiting for book two. Thankfully, it releases next month.
The story just flowed. When I read I like to guess what comes next because, to be honest, most books are predictable. I guessed wrong 90% of the time with this book. That’s why I couldn’t put it down. Emmaleen and Giovanni are the main characters. At first I was unsure of Giovanni’s character but by the end you grow to love him just as I think Emmaleen does too. He’s a man born into a world where he had to stay alert to survive. She’s lost everything and offered a job for one week where she can earn $31,750 dollars. That kind of money is a drop in that hat for him but will drastically change her life if she can get through the week without demerits. The power play between the two is intense and so intriguing to follow. I cannot wait for book two!
Let me start by saying I read the book before reading the kindle version. The book is beautiful. It killed me to wrinkle the pages but after starting it I couldn’t put it down. I read the entire thing in one sitting and now I’m patiently waiting for book two. Thankfully, it releases next month.
The story just flowed. When I read I like to guess what comes next because, to be honest, most books are predictable. I guessed wrong 90% of the time with this book. That’s why I couldn’t put it down. Emmaleen and Giovanni are the main characters. At first I was unsure of Giovanni’s character but by the end you grow to love him just as I think Emmaleen does too. He’s a man born into a world where he had to stay alert to survive. She’s lost everything and offered a job for one week where she can earn $31,750 dollars. That kind of money is a drop in that hat for him but will drastically change her life if she can get through the week without demerits. The power play between the two is intense and so intriguing to follow. I cannot wait for book two!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The FMC, Emmaleen Rourke, at first glance, appears to be a down-on-her-luck desperate woman trying to catch a break. When our MMC, mob boss, Giovanni Bavga, first sees her, he notices something different in the way she carries herself. He offers her a job as his assistant and devises a series of challenges to test her resolve and is impressed with her resourcefulness. The story is told from a dual point of view so it's fun to hear Giovanni's musings about Emmaleen, and it's even more inciteful to hear Emmaleen's thoughts and conclusions about her boss. Giovanni's planned out his challenges to see how Emmaleen reacts, and she continues to turn the tables on him when she doesn't "perform" as he expects.
A series of events occur which "flip the script", giving Emmaleen the fresh start she strove for at the beginning of the book. But surprise, she chooses an alternate course setting us up for the next book!
Jason Clarke voices the growly, self-assured Giovanni, and Samantha Summers does a great soapbox rant when Emmaleen nears the end of her rope! Great casting!
A series of events occur which "flip the script", giving Emmaleen the fresh start she strove for at the beginning of the book. But surprise, she chooses an alternate course setting us up for the next book!
Jason Clarke voices the growly, self-assured Giovanni, and Samantha Summers does a great soapbox rant when Emmaleen nears the end of her rope! Great casting!
May 3, 2026
Power Dynamic Contract with the Mafia
Emmaleen (MFC) Single broken & homeless, currently living in a woman’s shelter, struggling to get through her days in jobs not meant to set people like her up for success, but rather keep them down and struggling.
Giovanni (MMC) Single OTT Alpha Mafia member with extreme wealth, he possesses considerable power and control over himself and others.
He comes from a world where family ties mean everything and nothing like what Emily can imagine, where even the smallest acts can have lasting consequences, severe consequences in one’s life or those that surround you.
Emily unknowingly agrees to a game with Giovanni, before she knows the rules and consequences. She agrees to this for a chance at a new beginning, an actual chance to get out of her current circumstances, she just has to last 7 days and win.
I enjoyed this story, at the power dynamics and hearing Emily’s story.
Emmaleen (MFC) Single broken & homeless, currently living in a woman’s shelter, struggling to get through her days in jobs not meant to set people like her up for success, but rather keep them down and struggling.
Giovanni (MMC) Single OTT Alpha Mafia member with extreme wealth, he possesses considerable power and control over himself and others.
He comes from a world where family ties mean everything and nothing like what Emily can imagine, where even the smallest acts can have lasting consequences, severe consequences in one’s life or those that surround you.
Emily unknowingly agrees to a game with Giovanni, before she knows the rules and consequences. She agrees to this for a chance at a new beginning, an actual chance to get out of her current circumstances, she just has to last 7 days and win.
I enjoyed this story, at the power dynamics and hearing Emily’s story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
JA Huss is a master of words. The way she builds the scenes, develops her characters, and conveys their internal thoughts is remarkable, you not only understand what they’re feeling, but also why they are the way they are.
This power dynamic-driven story unfolds over the course of a single day (mostly). Despite the slow build of this new world, the character development and sharp dialogue keep you hooked. As the book progresses, we’re given deeper emotional insight into the characters’ perspectives.
The wit woven into this story is gold. I’ve read numerous books from JA Huss across various genres, and she never disappoints.
I’m not sure what the next book with Giovanni and Emmaleen will bring, but I have no doubt it’ll be intense and satisfying
A huge thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity.
This power dynamic-driven story unfolds over the course of a single day (mostly). Despite the slow build of this new world, the character development and sharp dialogue keep you hooked. As the book progresses, we’re given deeper emotional insight into the characters’ perspectives.
The wit woven into this story is gold. I’ve read numerous books from JA Huss across various genres, and she never disappoints.
I’m not sure what the next book with Giovanni and Emmaleen will bring, but I have no doubt it’ll be intense and satisfying
A huge thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was super excited to get an ARC of this book and an actual real book!! It was the first time I have read an actual book in a long time usually I read ebooks.
Her Chains Her Choice pulled me in right from the start. I loved Emmaleen right off. She is down on her luck and is fully aware that her choices to survive could put herself in danger. Giovanni is a Mob Boss that thrives on control but deep down I think he is good at heart. He is the kind of bad boy we all love. In true JA Huss fashion this book draws you in immediately and leaves you wanting more. The chemistry between Emmaleen and Giovanni is fabulous and the banter between them makes you keep turning the pages!!! A definite must read for me. I didn't want this one to end but now I can't wait for book 2.
Her Chains Her Choice pulled me in right from the start. I loved Emmaleen right off. She is down on her luck and is fully aware that her choices to survive could put herself in danger. Giovanni is a Mob Boss that thrives on control but deep down I think he is good at heart. He is the kind of bad boy we all love. In true JA Huss fashion this book draws you in immediately and leaves you wanting more. The chemistry between Emmaleen and Giovanni is fabulous and the banter between them makes you keep turning the pages!!! A definite must read for me. I didn't want this one to end but now I can't wait for book 2.
Review of advance copy
(3.9 Stars)
Emmaleen Rourke needs to make her debt go away and soon. Not only is she having disasters happen over and over she also needs a place to stay. Giovanni Bavga offers her a solution to her problems. Be his employee but there are rules and consequences if you break them. Whatever he says, she must follow but can he keep to his own rules or will he start to catch feelings for mysterious Emmaleen? This is a slow building story that picks up a little past mid way when the story really gets interesting. What is Emmaleen’s secret and will Giovanni’s game end well for them both? Ending on a cliffhanger, I’m excited to see what happens next. Told in first person and dual POV
Emmaleen Rourke needs to make her debt go away and soon. Not only is she having disasters happen over and over she also needs a place to stay. Giovanni Bavga offers her a solution to her problems. Be his employee but there are rules and consequences if you break them. Whatever he says, she must follow but can he keep to his own rules or will he start to catch feelings for mysterious Emmaleen? This is a slow building story that picks up a little past mid way when the story really gets interesting. What is Emmaleen’s secret and will Giovanni’s game end well for them both? Ending on a cliffhanger, I’m excited to see what happens next. Told in first person and dual POV
Review of advance copy
Giovanni Bagva, mobster, businessman, likes to have order and control in every aspect of his life. Emmaleen Rourke, jobless, soon to be homeless, her life is messy and chaotic. He offers her a job as his assistant for one week and will pay her $31,750 dollars. She thinks this is the opportunity she needs till she learns the rules and consequences. I loved that this story was full of little details and intrigue. I can’t wait for the rest of the story! What secret is Emmaleen hiding? Will Giovanni learn how to share his feelings?
Review of advance copy received from Author
I recommend reading this book!
Unique story with unexpected events. Definitely not a cookie cutter story ( I read about 100 books a year and come across many)!. This was a book I ate up and hated to have to put down but couldn'twait to get back to. Clever. I am very much anticipating the next installment.
Emmaleen, the female lead, has a strong character.
I felt the supressed emotions, and there are many.
Giovanni, the male lead, is enigmatic and his end game slowly reveals itself. However, I feel there is more to come.
Thought provoking and clever story.
Unique story with unexpected events. Definitely not a cookie cutter story ( I read about 100 books a year and come across many)!. This was a book I ate up and hated to have to put down but couldn'twait to get back to. Clever. I am very much anticipating the next installment.
Emmaleen, the female lead, has a strong character.
I felt the supressed emotions, and there are many.
Giovanni, the male lead, is enigmatic and his end game slowly reveals itself. However, I feel there is more to come.
Thought provoking and clever story.
April 28, 2026
It has been awhile since I read JA so when I had the opportunity for Her Chains Her Choice I jumped at it! The dynamic between these two is palpable and addictive, very much about power, chaos, danger, struggle and attraction. Emmaleen has so many layers and is very much in quite the predicament. She’s strong but vulnerable. Giovanni…..everything he thought he knew, everything he planned and all his power is finally tested when he meets her. Watching walls crumble, feelings grow and the loss of control is delicious!
April 30, 2026
I was so excited for this book...
....and with good reason! Mafia...but Julie style. I was hooked from the first page, as usual with a JA book. When this new mafia book was shared I knew we were in for a ride! The demerit system had my mouth dropping but also had the devil on my should rubbing his hands with excitement! Genius really. Her in the car, yep that would be me! I am so beyond ready for the next book and have no idea what direction it will go. And just to tack on...that cover...I'm living for it. Beautiful.
....and with good reason! Mafia...but Julie style. I was hooked from the first page, as usual with a JA book. When this new mafia book was shared I knew we were in for a ride! The demerit system had my mouth dropping but also had the devil on my should rubbing his hands with excitement! Genius really. Her in the car, yep that would be me! I am so beyond ready for the next book and have no idea what direction it will go. And just to tack on...that cover...I'm living for it. Beautiful.
May 4, 2026
A little bit different type of mafia romance than what I am used to which is a welcome change. Both MC-s grow on you as you get to know them and their characters reveal themselves. The power plays are gripping, the stakes are high, the spice is spicing. I absolutely loved how this story was delivered in audio. Jason Clarke never disappoints and Samantha Summers made a great first impression since this was my first listen from her. For me a book is 5 star when it makes me feel this much. When it makes me giggle, my stomach clench or makes my skin prickle. Can not wait for the next book.
Review of advance copy
This story reminds me of a train wreck you just can’t look away from. Nothing is quite what it appears at first in this enthralling tale. Emmaleen makes me feel so many emotions, I don’t want to pity her, but. I want to completely hate Giovanni for his machinations but then he shows some true feelings instead of just being a user. The mafia bits we think in this genre aren’t prevalent thank goodness. The sexy times are almost sadistic but still hot AF. What will the next installment bring?
April 21, 2026
Power dynamics, check. Choice of how to wear your chains, check. This is a story of how to wield your power when it’s been out of your grasp for as long as you can remember. And how to make your own choices when everything around you is a game with odds stacked against you. No drama. Just a slow burn power play and I can’t wait for more. Emmaleen’s word wielding is epically comical and precise. Giovanni’s control is as firm as his Italian suit, but can it be peeled off?
Read
April 22, 2026As always Julie sucks you into another crazy beautiful world she had created. I loved this book. I mean I haven't read a book from her I didn't like. I really like the main characters she created for this dark Mafia romance. I love a great Enemies to Lovers and this book did not disappoint. I can't wait for the next book in this series and to listen to the audiobook.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been hooked on this author’s words since Rook and Ronin! She has a way with writing characters that you fall in love with, your heart breaks for them or beats faster when something crazy is happening. This book was excellent! The MMC hot, a little scary but exactly what I needed.
May 1, 2026
love it
I’ll be honest, I don’t think this author can disappoint. A bit of a different take on the whole mob boss thing and I am so here for it. Can’t wait for the next book
I’ll be honest, I don’t think this author can disappoint. A bit of a different take on the whole mob boss thing and I am so here for it. Can’t wait for the next book
May 6, 2026
🤩4 stars🤩
Review of advance copy received from Author
A JA Huss book is a treasure trove of carefully curated words and intricate, layered plotting. Her Chains Her Choice is, without a doubt, a perfect example of a writer in complete command of her creation. The chapters alternate between our two 'antagonists'. Giovanni and Emmaleen are together in a battle of control and survival, drawing us inexorably into each skirmish, as Emmaleen embarks on a quest to prevent drowning in societal impoverishment, and Giovanni, weaving an intricate web in which to wrap her in his silk chains. Their internal dialogue reveals so much while serving to enhance the positions occupied by both. Then, there are the unexpected, the twists that you don't see coming. The interactions that reveal much more than anticipated as the characters flesh out and gain deeper dimensions. And, suddenly, the danger...bigger sharks are circling, and the stakes pile higher, while vulnerabilities manifest themselves. The game's afoot, and it's intense! Fantastic! Absolutely 5++ 🌟 💖💖💖💖💖
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