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A Devil's Pawn: Dark Billionaire Mafia Romance
Sophia
The mafia world was never for me, but fate enveloped me in its darkness, and I fell in love with the dark-hearted devil. His father may have tried to use me as a pawn, but Massimo never did.
He thinks he can end the age-old feud between the Roselli and Cassone crime families and bring peace where none is wanted by anyone but us.
I know the Cassones, and the vengeance and hatred that burns in their souls for the enemies, and whether Massimo sees it for what it is, that same hatred burns inside of his father too.
Once an enemy always an enemy.
And our rivals know exactly how to get their way too.
Massimo
The dark-haired beauty came to me because of a double cross, supposed to be nothing more than a Devil’s Pawn.
My father, don of the Jersey City crime family, thought taking a daughter would right the wrongs of the Cassones.
I didn’t expect to fall in love with the youngest princess of a rival family, but no matter how forbidden, she is the light in my dark-hearted soul.
As a self-made billionaire, I usually get what I want, but this is no simple ask. No one wants to see a Roselli and Cassone together.
As eldest, soon to be given the reins as Boss, I’m laying down the rules and taking charge.
Sophia Maria Cassone, that woman wrapped in an innocent smile with a body made for sin is going to be mine. I’m done playing games. Because all is fair in love and war.
A Devil’s Pawn is the explosive second book in the Jersey City Kings series by international bestselling author, Via Mari. It is a deliciously dark, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, mafia romance. It includes an over-the-top possessive anti-hero, kidnapping, spanking and light bondage.
You will love this trilogy where the passion is fiery, the loyalty is fierce, and the stakes are high. Each novel in this collection builds to the next and they are most enjoyably read from beginning to end with a guaranteed HEA in the final book. 18 +
The mafia world was never for me, but fate enveloped me in its darkness, and I fell in love with the dark-hearted devil. His father may have tried to use me as a pawn, but Massimo never did.
He thinks he can end the age-old feud between the Roselli and Cassone crime families and bring peace where none is wanted by anyone but us.
I know the Cassones, and the vengeance and hatred that burns in their souls for the enemies, and whether Massimo sees it for what it is, that same hatred burns inside of his father too.
Once an enemy always an enemy.
And our rivals know exactly how to get their way too.
Massimo
The dark-haired beauty came to me because of a double cross, supposed to be nothing more than a Devil’s Pawn.
My father, don of the Jersey City crime family, thought taking a daughter would right the wrongs of the Cassones.
I didn’t expect to fall in love with the youngest princess of a rival family, but no matter how forbidden, she is the light in my dark-hearted soul.
As a self-made billionaire, I usually get what I want, but this is no simple ask. No one wants to see a Roselli and Cassone together.
As eldest, soon to be given the reins as Boss, I’m laying down the rules and taking charge.
Sophia Maria Cassone, that woman wrapped in an innocent smile with a body made for sin is going to be mine. I’m done playing games. Because all is fair in love and war.
A Devil’s Pawn is the explosive second book in the Jersey City Kings series by international bestselling author, Via Mari. It is a deliciously dark, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, mafia romance. It includes an over-the-top possessive anti-hero, kidnapping, spanking and light bondage.
You will love this trilogy where the passion is fiery, the loyalty is fierce, and the stakes are high. Each novel in this collection builds to the next and they are most enjoyably read from beginning to end with a guaranteed HEA in the final book. 18 +
177 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2026
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5 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sophia
The mafia world was never for me, but fate enveloped me in its darkness, and I fell in love with the dark-hearted devil. His father may have tried to use me as a pawn, but Massimo never did.
He thinks he can end the age-old feud between the Roselli and Cassone crime families and bring peace where none is wanted by anyone but us.
I know the Cassones, and the vengeance and hatred that burns in their souls for the enemies, and whether Massimo sees it for what it is, that same hatred burns inside of his father, too.
Once an enemy, always an enemy.
And our rivals know exactly how to get their way, too.
Massimo
The dark-haired beauty came to me because of a double cross, supposed to be nothing more than a Devil’s Pawn.
My father, don of the Jersey City crime family, thought taking a daughter would right the wrongs of the Cassones[Via M1].
I didn’t expect to fall in love with the youngest princess of a rival family, but no matter how forbidden, she is the light in my dark-hearted soul.
As a self-made billionaire, I usually get what I want, but this is no simple ask. No one wants to see a Roselli and Cassone together.
As eldest, soon to be given the reins as Boss, I’m laying down the rules and taking charge.
Sophia Maria Cassone, that woman wrapped in an innocent smile with a body made for sin, is going to be mine. I’m done playing games. Because all is fair in love and war.
This billionaire dark over-the-top mafia enemies-to-lovers romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is engulfed by darkness, violence, danger, and grit, and characters who are an over-the-top possessive anti-hero who is exuding power/wealth, violence, danger, and more, and a female heroine who is both resilient, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with a devil's pawn, 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, humor, suspense that is sure to leave readers on the edge of their seats, forced proximity, kidnapping, spanking, light bondage, chaos/drama, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, trilogy where the passion is fiery, the loyalty is fierce, the stakes are hight, guaranteed HEA, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with a devil's pawn and an explicit dark mafia enemies-to-lovers over-the-top romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly dangerous, lustful, and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The mafia world was never for me, but fate enveloped me in its darkness, and I fell in love with the dark-hearted devil. His father may have tried to use me as a pawn, but Massimo never did.
He thinks he can end the age-old feud between the Roselli and Cassone crime families and bring peace where none is wanted by anyone but us.
I know the Cassones, and the vengeance and hatred that burns in their souls for the enemies, and whether Massimo sees it for what it is, that same hatred burns inside of his father, too.
Once an enemy, always an enemy.
And our rivals know exactly how to get their way, too.
Massimo
The dark-haired beauty came to me because of a double cross, supposed to be nothing more than a Devil’s Pawn.
My father, don of the Jersey City crime family, thought taking a daughter would right the wrongs of the Cassones[Via M1].
I didn’t expect to fall in love with the youngest princess of a rival family, but no matter how forbidden, she is the light in my dark-hearted soul.
As a self-made billionaire, I usually get what I want, but this is no simple ask. No one wants to see a Roselli and Cassone together.
As eldest, soon to be given the reins as Boss, I’m laying down the rules and taking charge.
Sophia Maria Cassone, that woman wrapped in an innocent smile with a body made for sin, is going to be mine. I’m done playing games. Because all is fair in love and war.
This billionaire dark over-the-top mafia enemies-to-lovers romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is engulfed by darkness, violence, danger, and grit, and characters who are an over-the-top possessive anti-hero who is exuding power/wealth, violence, danger, and more, and a female heroine who is both resilient, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with a devil's pawn, 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, humor, suspense that is sure to leave readers on the edge of their seats, forced proximity, kidnapping, spanking, light bondage, chaos/drama, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, trilogy where the passion is fiery, the loyalty is fierce, the stakes are hight, guaranteed HEA, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with a devil's pawn and an explicit dark mafia enemies-to-lovers over-the-top romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly dangerous, lustful, and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book 2, A Devil’s Pawn, takes up right where Book 1, Sealed with a Kiss left off. Massimo is determined to keep Sophia for his own and her family safe even if he has to go against his father’s and the family’s wishes. Sophia finds herself falling for the devil that is her husband, Massimo Roselli. Their families have been enemies for decades but these two plan to end the feud. After all love conquers all, but is love in the cards for these two? Do these two find a way into each other’s hearts while their enemies creep closer and closer. Book 2 is a whirlwind of events and emotions: deceit, revenge, trust, passion, loyalty, rats in the ranks, kidnappings, family feuds and so much more. Throw in a dominant, possessive male and a feisty, innocent female who is slowly becoming corrupted in the bedroom and you have a very exciting storyline.
I highly recommend this series, which must be read in order. As for this reader, I can’t wait to see what happens next in book 3 of the Jersey City Kings.
2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars
I highly recommend this series, which must be read in order. As for this reader, I can’t wait to see what happens next in book 3 of the Jersey City Kings.
2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars
February 19, 2026
In the second book, Massimo and Sophia are wed against others’ wishes. They know their love and loyalty are above board. He banks the marriage will last more than one year; the terms set. When Massimo discovers who really put the hit out on their territory, they will pay. He is being surrounded by enemies; at times it seems even his father is one. He still protects Sophia’s family from others.
There are hits out on his family and Sophia. Two other families want what they believe they are owed. One, jilted by Massimo. The other, using the Cassones to cover up their involvements in shady dealings. Massimo will have to call in help from a family we are all too familiar with…the Larussio’s. Will this be their only involvement? Just when things seem almost like they are under control, Massimo’s father once again is bound and determined to make him buckle under his terms and thumb. What is going on that his father knows and he does not? What and who will pay the costs? Find out in the next installment.
There are hits out on his family and Sophia. Two other families want what they believe they are owed. One, jilted by Massimo. The other, using the Cassones to cover up their involvements in shady dealings. Massimo will have to call in help from a family we are all too familiar with…the Larussio’s. Will this be their only involvement? Just when things seem almost like they are under control, Massimo’s father once again is bound and determined to make him buckle under his terms and thumb. What is going on that his father knows and he does not? What and who will pay the costs? Find out in the next installment.
February 11, 2026
I voluntarily reviewed "A DEVIL'S PAWN"
I was hooked right from the start so full of intrigue, danger, secrets, danger, steamy scenes, revenge, deceit, rivals, enemies circling make you want to keep reading.
Sophie Cassone was wanting to be involved in a Mafia War between the Roseeli's her families rival for years.
Massimo Roselli's father might have gried to use Sophie as a pawn to bring peace between their families no one wants it but them.
Sophie went to Massimo because of a double cross she was only suppose to be used as a pawn he didn't expect to fall hard for the youngest princess of their rival family.
Massimo a self made billionaire & eldest in line to become Boss can change the rules, he'll do anything to protect Sophie & her family even kill his own.
Will Massimo & Sophie get their HEA considering no one wants a Roselli & Cassone to be together definitely a must read you so won't be disappointed its a page turner to the end.
I was hooked right from the start so full of intrigue, danger, secrets, danger, steamy scenes, revenge, deceit, rivals, enemies circling make you want to keep reading.
Sophie Cassone was wanting to be involved in a Mafia War between the Roseeli's her families rival for years.
Massimo Roselli's father might have gried to use Sophie as a pawn to bring peace between their families no one wants it but them.
Sophie went to Massimo because of a double cross she was only suppose to be used as a pawn he didn't expect to fall hard for the youngest princess of their rival family.
Massimo a self made billionaire & eldest in line to become Boss can change the rules, he'll do anything to protect Sophie & her family even kill his own.
Will Massimo & Sophie get their HEA considering no one wants a Roselli & Cassone to be together definitely a must read you so won't be disappointed its a page turner to the end.
Review of advance copy
Book 2 of the Jersey City Kings series. For maximum enjoyment read the books in series order.
'A deliciously dark, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, mafia romance. It includes an over-the-top possessive anti-hero, kidnapping, spanking and light bondage.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and compelling and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and exciting and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'A deliciously dark, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, mafia romance. It includes an over-the-top possessive anti-hero, kidnapping, spanking and light bondage.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and compelling and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and exciting and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Devil’s Pawn Book 2 of the Jersey City Kings series picks up seamlessly from book 1 and does not disappoint. Nothing will stop Massimo from marrying Sophia and he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her. Sophia is definitely coming into her own in this book and her trust in Massimo is unwavering. There are twists, turns and drama that keep you engaged throughout, not to mention the red hot romance that Massimo and Sophia share. Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review her work as part of her ARC team. I am impatiently awaiting book three of this well written series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5/5⭐️
Continuing from the first book in the Jersey City Kings trilogy, Sophia and Massimo are finally married, as per their one year arrangement (at least that’s what Sophia thinks!). But danger continues to lurk around them.
Despite the forces which are intent on breaking up their marriage, over time the trust between them continues to strengthen and I loved how they communicated and cleared up any misunderstandings without unnecessary drama.
The book ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the epic ending that is to come.
Continuing from the first book in the Jersey City Kings trilogy, Sophia and Massimo are finally married, as per their one year arrangement (at least that’s what Sophia thinks!). But danger continues to lurk around them.
Despite the forces which are intent on breaking up their marriage, over time the trust between them continues to strengthen and I loved how they communicated and cleared up any misunderstandings without unnecessary drama.
The book ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the epic ending that is to come.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The heat is on! I cannot believe the way this book ended! Talk about a cliffhanger. KA-BOOM! Yet, thankfully it starts right where book one left off. Massimo and Sophia's relationship keeps growing stronger despite their family's rivalry. Massimo is determined to make Sophia his no matter what the cost and Sophia is standing by her man. I need my hands on the next book in the Jersey City Kings series to find how it all ends.
February 12, 2026
Absolutely loving the "the Jersey City Kings series!"
Is it possible for Sophia and Massimo to end their family's feud?
This sure is one intense story to find out!
Sophia is coming into her own! Strengthening with Massimo's guiding hand.
But forces are against them!
Action-packed.
Intense.
Steamy.
Oh and though I knew it was coming...the dreaded cliff-hanger!
Wait?
It's going to be so hard.
Dastardly Ms. Mari! Just dastardly!
Is it possible for Sophia and Massimo to end their family's feud?
This sure is one intense story to find out!
Sophia is coming into her own! Strengthening with Massimo's guiding hand.
But forces are against them!
Action-packed.
Intense.
Steamy.
Oh and though I knew it was coming...the dreaded cliff-hanger!
Wait?
It's going to be so hard.
Dastardly Ms. Mari! Just dastardly!
Review of advance copy
The story continues, and is still engaging with the main characters ' growth. We are still trying to find out more about the forces really behind this unrest, and another cliffhanger. I am hoping resolution is just as good. A few missing words but doesn't detract from overall story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Sophia and Massimo continue in this second book as a great couple. This book held hints of danger and chaos. Twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. This was a page turner for sure. It was intense and I enjoyed devouring this. I am so in love with these two. I can’t wait for the third and final book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Massimo and Sophia's story continue, and we get a deeper look into their drama with another cliffhanger. It is filled with dramatic twists and turns like the first and had me all caught up in our main characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second book continues with Massimo and Sophia's, enemies to lovers, story. Massimo has to keep trying to unravel himself from familial obligations without causing any adverse complications while also trying to keep Sophia and her family safe. Enjoying the twist and turns that keep me guessing. (Im)patiently waiting for the conclusion.
Review of advance copy
Hot hot hot. This book has it all. A great story that will grab you and keep you reading. Characters that you will love and are so hot, you will be in trouble and moves along at a pace that makes for an easy and enjoyable read. This book will not disappoint. It needs to be at the top of our TBR list, no doubt about it.
February 6, 2026
Devil's Pawn book two in the Jersey City King's series continues with Massimo and Sophia's story. Danger, intrigue, surprises and steam in this captivating riveting story with well-developed characters. Can't wait for book three!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This second installment of the series definitely kept me on my toes. I enjoyed this more than the first book and loved seeing Sophia consistently show her strength and maturity despite her youth. Her loyalty to her family is admirable but time will only tell if it's reciprocal. I can't wait for the last book to see how Massimo decides to get from under all the hurdles.
February 13, 2026
An addictive intense story with so many crazy good twists throughout the story. main characters were multi layered and relatable. Action packed scenes. Secrets, danger, sizzling chemistry. definitely recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The continuation of Sophia and Massimo's story in the second book in the Jersey City Kings series was unputdownable. From Sophia coming into her own, Massimo with his protect her or die, and the forces against them, I was on the edge of my seat!
Review of advance copy
Continuing Sophie and Massimos story of forbidden love between rival families, Massimo is a man who gets what je wants but when no one wants the two families united the war within might outway the one of the heart, well written steamy fast paced, desires, action and another cliffy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Intense, exciting, unexpected twists and turns with two dysfunctional patriarchs.Two wonderful main characters who never know what’s going to happen next. Can not wait for the Third and Final book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second book in The Jersey Kings series delivers suspense from the beginning. As Sophia finds her footing and learns more about the families, Massimo becomes increasingly protective of Sophia. Family tensions rise, and I can't wait for book 3. I look forward to seeing how the story continues.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved it! Massimo and Sophia continue to grow together despite outside forces and their interference. It’s intense and full of suspense, twists and turns, drama, and a cliffhanger ending that will leave you wanting more. Can’t wait for the final book!
February 11, 2026
This is the second book in the Jersey City Kings series. I loved Massimo and Sophia’s story. It’s action packed, their chemistry is sizzling hot, the plot is gripping and the twists and turns kept me on my toes! Awesome series.
February 15, 2026
Massimo’s Kitten
The deal was marriage for a year. But Massimo will never give Sophia up. Never! She is his kitten and he will do everything to keep her purring with delight under his hands and his body!
The deal was marriage for a year. But Massimo will never give Sophia up. Never! She is his kitten and he will do everything to keep her purring with delight under his hands and his body!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Massimo and Sophia continue to deal with threats to themselves, their families and business. The intensity and suspense is over the top. Looking forward to the final installment.
February 11, 2026
And the action-packed story continues with Massimo and Sophia's wedding. There's something about their story that keeps me glued to the pages unwilling to put the book down. I think it's the fact that Massimo's determined not to let anything or anyone including his dad intrude on the bliss he has found in Sophia. I'm sure there's going to be plenty more edge of your seat action in book three for us readers to look forward to.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I looked forward to this second book in this series and what a mind-blowing story! It takes up where we left off with Massimo and Sophia taking the next step in their relationship. But not everyone is happy about it and will stop at nothing to prevent them from being together. There are many twists and turns that will make your head spin! I enjoyed the continuing journey that Massimo and Sophia took me on. I rooted for them throughout and fell even more in love with Massimo as he will do anything to protect her. As for Sophia, she is really coming into her own in this story and it really made me love her character even more. But with so many outsiders trying to interfere, I wasn’t sure what the outcome would be! Their chemistry is even more sizzling and their love for each other so much more profound. I am anxious for the next installment as the cliffhanger I was left with absolutely stopped me in my tracks!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews