Desire

Men of Inked Sinners #5

by Chelle Bliss

Mason Gallo is known for two being a perpetual bachelor with commitment issues and the hunky co-owner of a family-owned Chicago bar. Now that he’s older and ready to settle down, there’s a problem—he only has eyes for a woman who lives hundreds of miles away.

Genres: Found Family, Friends To Lovers, Slow Burn, He Falls First, Romance, Family

211 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 5, 2026

About the author

Chelle Bliss is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author. She currently lives in a small town near the Gulf of Mexico, but hates sand. She's a full-time writer, time-waster extraordinaire, social media addict, and loves everything romance.
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Reviews

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Desire

Another great Gallo family story. Mason is attracted to Hunters Sister, and not sure she feels the same. She has self esteem issues, big time due to a previous relationship, and basically being put down. This story will show you how two people who are mutually interested in each other are willing to help the other find their worth. Beautiful story ❤️.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazon / Paperback & Audio



Mason's known as the forever commitment-phobe of the Gallo clan. Until he meets the only woman who's made him rethink his playboy ways. Now he has all these feelings for Lizzy and he can't do anything about them. Not only is she his friend's sister, he's her friend, too, she also lives hours away. But just maybe he can convince Lizzy that Chicago is where she should be - with him, and his large, loving family who welcome her with open arms.



Lizzy really likes Mason - he's been there for her countless times since her brother was hurt, and they've been spending a lot of time together because of her brother's wedding. But is she just dreaming that a man as gorgeous and confident as Mason could ever be interested in her? Her ex did a number on her own self confidence, she's doubting everything, and holding back. If she takes the leap her best friend keeps urging her to, she and Mason can have the happiness she only dreamed of.



Lizzy and Mason are so sweet. Mason is an adorable golden retriever of a man, down so bad for Lizzy. He did such a wonderful job of helping her regain her self confidence, by worshipping her every chance he got, proving to her that he couldn't have been more in love with every part of her. I didn't read the previous installment (the one about her brother), so I admit to feeling a bit lost throughout, but it wasn't so bad that I couldn't appreciate the way their relationship evolved. The Gallos are one of my favorite fictional families, and Mason and Lizzy made me remember just how much I love this large but loving clan.



ARC provided by the author for an honest review.

Review: Live Through Books Blog.

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[Lula Brielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can you trust a bad boy gone good? Is he really worth the extra miles? Meet Mason and Lizzy. Well, we already met them in Chelle's 4th book of the Sinners series, Wish. That's where we witnessed Mason's and Lizzy's meet cute, as well as Lizzy's first introduction to the Gallo's after Lizzy's younger brother Hunter got shot! She's officially become family, and has been taken into the Gallo fold. Something she's grateful for and has been missing since her and Hunter's parents died many years ago.

Ah, the Gallos! They pop up everywhere! I think I need a family tree chart or something to remember them all. Oh wait, I can get one on Chelle's website. But anyways, Mason is in deep like with Lizzy, but Lizzy prefers to stay friends for now because, get this, while he's in Chicago, she lives in Ohio! That's a long drive to a small town but that's her home! I really want to share a spoiler here but I hate when people do that, so let's just say, when I read it, I squealed and clapped my hands with glee. It's the little details that make me 😊!

Their friendship continues to progress as Zoey prepares for her upcoming wedding to Hunter, which in turns keeps the "just friends" closer together. Mason even drives Lizzy to her hometown, definitely ignoring it's Hallmark charm. He even compares the town to his family, because with both, everyone's in everyone's business. As time moves on, they find themselves in the "what are we?" phase, but it's a little difficult for Lizzy. She's older than Mason and also has some personal issues, so she doesn't feel worthy of his fine self. I'm sure we've all felt that way, I know I have.

I'll leave the rest of the summarization part of the review and get into the nitty gritty. While this book felt like a quick read, I didn't mind because it also felt like we picked up from where we left Mason and Lizzy in Wish. As a couple they're great, he really helps her see her self worth and you can tell they love each other unconditionally.

Both Hunter and Lizzy fit right into the Gallo family, where no secret is sacred, and family gossip is a pastime. Of course, it's all out of love! Speaking of love, there was also a sneak peek of Promise, the 6th Book of the Men of Inked Sinners series, which will feature Amelia, Vinnie and Bianca's daughter (Men of Inked Southside: Hustle.) Can't wait to see what Chelle's got cooking in the kitchen for this one! Much thanks to her for allowing me to read in advance in reciprocity for my review!

[Sarah Slusarczyk · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Men of Inked Sinners is back at it again with the latest installment. Desire is the fifth installment of the series by Chelle Bliss. As always, I do recommend reading a series in order to get the most out of it; however each book in the series can be read as a standalone in an interconnected world.

Mason Gallo is a forever bachelor, the family playboy, the one who no one thinks is going to settle down. Well that all changes with Lizzy Evans, Hunter’s sister from the previous book. Mason is hooked from the first meet and wants nothing more than to pursue Lizzy, except she doesn't live in Chicago, she lives nearly four hours away in the small-town of Star Falls. With Lizzy’s only family making Chicago their forever home, she starts wondering why she’s staying in the small-town all alone. She already makes the trek to Chicago as often as she can, so what exactly is holding her back? Mason turns up the Gallo charm and his “friendship” with Lizzy hangs by a thread between friends and lovers, but he wants her to want their relationship for the right reason, not just from the pressure from the family. Does Lizzy make the move to Chicago and does Mason finally get his dream girl?

Chelle is a long time favorite author for me. There is just something about reading a series that feels like visiting friends, the coziness, the warm and tingling feeling you are left with when the read is done. Chelle always delivers a great story with memorable characters that leave lasting impressions, and this always has me coming back for the next book. I've been reading the Gallo’s from the get-go and I could never see myself not wanting to read the next installment, it’s like pistachios, you can never just have one! 😉

4.2 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️

Tropes:

🔥Slow Burn
❤️Friends to Lovers
🔥Long Time Bachelor

[Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

The desire between these two is strong and lives up to the name for sure. “Desire” is a swoony, heartfelt and sweet opposites attract, friends to lovers romance that was a great addition to the “Men of Inked Sinners” series.

Ever since Mason Gallo met Lizzy Evans his view on being a forever bachelor has changed. There was something about her that he couldn’t get enough. She’s going to be in his life from now on because her brother is marrying his cousin. And for the year his cousin spends planning her wedding, the two have become friends and really gotten to know each other. Lizzy is still living in her small town and is considering moving to Chicago to be close again to her brother and niece. Lizzy has the same feelings for Mason but is scared to take the next step. And Mason is going to prove to her that they are forever.

I loved Mason from the last book. He’s confident, has all the swagger but is such a good guy. He’s a Gallo through and through and that made me so happy. Lizzy was fun from the previous book and I loved how close she and her brother are. They lost their parents and have been each other’s support system for a long time. Mason might have had a reputation of being a playboy but that man was down bad for Lizzy without any doubt. He was so patient with her and never pushed her more than she was ready for. Anything that they did was on her terms and that is the Gallo way for sure. The burn was slow and was worth the wait. They truly got to know each other and I loved their romantic connection as well as the friendship they built. The ending was so sweet and I’m counting down the days until the next book especially with the hint we got on what it’s going to be about.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Desire is book five in the Men of Inked Sinners series and it is a wonderful addition! There is nothing better than being back with the Gallos!

Mason Gallo has taken over running the family bar with his cousin and he's also known as a perpetual bachelor. The only problem with the perpetual bachelor thing is he really hasn't dated since he met his cousin's soon-to-be sister-in-law since he wants nothing more than to date her. He's content with taking it slow for now, but he really wants to take things to the next level.

Lizzy Evans currently lives in Ohio and has always wanted the corporate job. She has gone through a difficult breakup that has shaken her confidence. With her brother's wedding coming up, she is spending more time in Chicago, which means she's also spending more time with a certain Gallo, namely Mason. While they are just friends, the attraction is totally mutual.

Mason and Lizzy spend time together and finally can't fight the pull between them. Not only is he an amazing friend, he is proving that he could be just the person that Lizzy needs in so many ways. Not to mention, his large family means that she and her brother would have a whole built in family instead of it just being the two of them.

Mason is absolutely swoonworthy and if I were Lizzy I would be melting (like she does!). I enjoyed how this story played out. It didn't feel forced and the connection between them was fire. I always enjoy coming back to spend time with the Gallos and this time was no different!

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**

[Ria Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

Swoon, sweetness & passion

Once again Chelle Biss has delivered nother wonderful Gallo story which wrapped me up in huge amounts of family, love, and humour. DESIRE is a friends to lovers, opposites attract, found family romance which is filled with swoon, sweetness, passion, and incredible chemistry.

Mason Gallo is swoonworthy, the eternal bachelor who has been completely smitten by Lizzy Evans. From the moment he met her Mason knew Lizzy was "the one", all he needed to do was convince her. Living six hours apart didn't help, but with Lizzy's frequent visits to Chicago to see her brother and niece a friendship develops between them.

I enjoyed watching their relationship evolve. While Mason was set for making them permanent, Lizzy was wary of what had happened to her during her last relationship, her self-confidence had taken a big hit. Mason was so sweet, willing to let Lizzy set their pace, he didn't want to lose her. Lizzy was simply gorgeous, she just wanted someone to love her for who she was. The chemistry between them was palpable and their eventual passion was red hot. I adored the little things Mason did for Lizzy, ensuring she knew just how much he wanted her in his life.

DESIRE was everything I have come to love from Chelle. You don't just get a Gallo romance story, you get the entire Gallo family. There's teasing, gossip, words of advice, and so much love. It was fun to have the cameos of Gigi, Pike, Tamara, and Mammoth. DESIRE is another fun, entertaining, and terrific addition to this series, and I'm now looking forward to Promise .

Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction

✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS

[Heather Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Trope: He falls first, Bar tender.

Mason Gallo has always been the bachelor of the family / the playboy. No one ever thought he would settle down. But, he's been interested in Hunter's sister, Lizzy, but just has never gotten the courage to let her know.

Lizzy, is Hunter's sister from Book #4, Wish. Lizzy lives 3 hrs away in the small town they grew up in Star Falls. Now that her brother moved to Chicago, she has no ties any more to Star Falls other than their memories. She hates her job, she isn't sure why she's stayed in the small town when everyone she loves is up in Chicago. Lizzy needs to make a decisions about if she should stay and commute every few weeks to Chicago or just move up there to be around everyone.

Mason wants Lizzy to move to Chicago so they could pursue a relationship. But, he doesn't want to pressure her any more than she already is. Mason wants Lizzy to decide not feel like the whole family is pressuring her. He does lay his charm on her quite thick. He wants her to know that he does like her and wants a relationship with her.

For Lizzy change and new things are quite difficult for her. But, she wants to change, she wants to be in a relationship with Mason. Lizzy is worried that he is just playing her and will leave her in the dust if she does up root her life to move to Chicago. It's more of a insecurity Lizzy has though about herself. Mason just reassurances her that he wants her time and time again.

I did receive a free ARC Copy from the Author Ms. Chelle Bliss. I am freely leaving a honest book review.

[Hanan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ms. Bliss welcomes us back to the Gallo Family with Desire, Mason and Lizzy’s story.
A friends to lovers romance.
Mason known for wanting to be the perpetual bachelor.
Well that goes out the window the he sees Lizzy.
He knew she was definitely the only one for him.
I enjoyed seeing their relationship start with being friends.
Developing trust and understanding along with the friendship as their foundation.
Because while Mason knew she was it for him. Lizzy was scared to go the next step.
Her past relationship has left her feeling less confident about herself.
The dynamics between these two was so endearing. It’s sweet and beautiful.
Theirs is a slow burn. As it should be with how Lizzy felt.
But I knew and felt that when things progressed they would be explosive together.
Their passion and lust sizzles off the pages.
I loved both Mason and Lizzy.
He is so sweet and patient with her. Letting her set the pace for everything.
She’s fun and someone I’d love to have as a friend. She has issues a lot of women go through.
So it was easy to relate to her.
And of course I can’t forget mentioning how fun and entertaining it was being with the Gallo family!
Desire is a great addition to the series.
An endearing and heartwarming friends/lovers and opposites who fit together perfectly.

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.

This is the story of Mason and Lizzy. You are going to love reading this book. I had the best time doing just that. You are going to swoon so hard over Mason. Man, oh man he is prefect book boyfriend material. Mason owns a bar and is a straight up no doubt about it bachelor. In his younger days, he didn't want a commitment. He was never serious about any woman. But when he meets Lizzy, all that goes out the window. He is beginning to think the times has come for him to settle down. There is only one problem She is his friend and his friend's sister. Plus, she lives hundreds of miles away from Lizzy. However, he is not going to give up so easily and thinks that maybe he can convince Lizzy that moving to Chicago is what she needs to do. Lizzy really likes Mason. He has been there for her every time she had needed him to be. Her brother though is getting married, and she is now in Chicago, and they have been spending a lot of time together. She is not one to just dive into anything headfirst. She has an ex that really did a number on her. She wants no part of anything like that again. I have to shut up or I am going to tell you the whole story. To find out if Mason and Lizzy get their shot at a happily ever after, you need to grab this book and dive in. You will not regret one second of it.

[Melissa Z. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Gallo family must read and this one is by far one of my favorites. You will love the dynamics between Mason and Lizzy it’s so sweet and yet when they finally connect their passion for each other is off the charts. Mason was always the player and once he sees Lizzy he’s a changed man. Lizzy’s been in relationships that have tore her down and is not looking to get into another one.
What starts out as a friendship becomes so much more! Mason is so sweet to her. And with lines like this, how could you not love him? “I’d paint my place pink if you were in it all the time. Whatever you want, Lizzy, I’d do it.” He’s been taking things slow for her because of the distance and family connection. But things heat up quick when they decide to give the relationship a chance. She’s insecure in her body, but he is a man who loves her curves and is dedicated to showing her how beautiful she is to him!
If you’ve read any of her books, you know the characters end up with a happily ever after. But there is also a little drama mixed in every book! You also get snippets of the rest of the Gallo family, and I love the addition of the family group chat dialogue! It is so entertaining and always spot on to that characters personality! 💕

[Serena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mason had always never wanted a committed relationship. But the minute he saw Lizzy he knew that was it for him. He’s been patient just building a strong friendship with her. She’s been visiting more and more because of her brothers wedding, but Mason knows his time is running out because the wedding will be over soon and she won’t have a reason to visit so much. Mason makes it his goal to show her exactly why she should.
Lizzy knows there’s definite chemistry between her and Mason, but he could never want someone like her and if it goes wrong, it will affect everyone. A risk she doesn’t want to take.
All the Gallo’s know that Mason is done, that Lizzy is the woman for him and now he just has to convince her that she belongs with him.
Lizzy didn’t expect that Mason would be so determined that he wanted her, it was everything she’d wanted, she couldn’t believe that the Gallo’s were so open about everything, but it’s the family she always dreamed of. There’s nothing really keeping her from moving and making it work.
Mason knows that Lizzy has to make the decision to uproot her life and move to Chicago, but that doesn’t mean he’s not going to do everything he can to make sure she never wants to leave.

[Serena · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 ⭐️
3.5/5🌶

Desire is book 5 in Men of Inked Sinners by Chelle Bliss.

Mason Gallo is finally ready to settle down and the one for him is living in another state.
Mason has his sights set on the one woman he thinks he can't have. Lizzy Evans. His cousins fiancés little sister. Off limits and out of reach... or so he thought.

Lizzy is happy for her brother. He's finally found his one and only, His person. Only problem is he found her in Chicago which is 6 hours from their hometown of Stars Falls. She's excited for him. Loves spending time there while her and her soon-to-be sister get ready for the big day. She loves the Gallo family and is thrilled they've not only welcomed her brother and niece into the fold, they've also brought her in too.

One Gallo in particular really has her attention. Mason Gallo is the handsomest man she's played eyes on. Their connection is magnetic. Their friendship is strong but she's burning for more.

These two are made for each other. Everyone sees it. Most Everyone knows it.now getting them to realize it is a whole other ballgame. Once Lizzy and Mason figure this attraction is mutual, finding a way to be together is their goal. These two are fire in every way possible. They're desire is undeniable and unstoppable.

[Trudy Dowling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Desire needs to come with a warning--Mason's actions will have you swooning. Uncontrollable drooling may ensue while devouring all the goodness in Desire. Chelle Bliss has written a scorcher of a story. Who knew Mason would be such a hot catch? Chelle Bliss did and she showed me not to settle for anything less than complete devotion.

If you desire friends to lovers romance stories; you won't want to miss this story. Mason and Lizzy met in Hunter and Zoey's story, Wish. Hunter had moved to Chicago, leaving his sister, Lizzy in Star Falls. She comes to visit to see her brother and her adorable niece. With every visit friendship between her and Mason grows. How could it not with the close proximity brought together by the Gallos.

Desire is Mason's journey to convince Lizzy she belongs in Chicago. His moves are epic. His declarations had my heart pounding. Mason knows all the right words to make Lizzy's confidence grow, to make me weak in the knees.

I cannot wait to visit with the Chicago Gallos again. They are such a fantastic family, always giving me hours of entertainment.

[Trace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Desire is the 5th book in the Men of Sinners series. The couple in the book are Mason and Lizzy.
He is part of the Gallo family and she is the sister of Hunter who is marrying Zoey.
The first time they seen each other they were attracked to each other. She is back in Chicago to help with the wedding plans. Mason wasn't a relationship kind of guy and Lizzy lives in Star Falls.
All of that changes when they are together. He shows her his town and after her car get smashed up while they were on a date. He drives her home and gets to see her town and is completely speechless when she shows him the Falls.
Mason does everything he can to get her to move in with him to be with he and also her brother.
Lizzy has issues about herself because of a piece of crap that she was dating. Mason tries to change her thoughts.
She sends time with his family and they completely adopt her into the Gallo clan. She is overwhelmed by this but loves it. They lost their parent when they were younger.
When Zoey and Hunter get married we get caught up with some of the Florida Gallos who come up for the wedding.
Loved the book so much.. kept a bunch of spoilers to myself. lol

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Gallo men will own your hearts, and that is a definite when it comes to Mason. He was the man who thought he was a bachelor for life but that changed when Lizzy walked into his life. I loved that these two got their story and I have been interested in Mason since he was first introduced.
Ms. Bliss weaves a story of a friendship between two people who are attracted to one another but the distance gets in the way. Mason is the sexy city boy who runs the family bar and has no interest in leaving the city life until Lizzy, the smart, beautiful country girl, catches his attention. Mason is determined to get her to move to the city since her friends, brother and he live there.
From page one to the end, I was intrigued by the friendship that developed into so much more. These two danced around their feelings for one another, but it was Mason who was all in from the start. The desire he had for Lizzy was strong and nothing was going to get in his way of showing her they belonged together.
I knew I was going to love this story from the teasers listed and Ms. Bliss did not disappoint.

[Michelle VanHuss · Rating 4 out of 5]

I keep dipping my toes into the Gallo family world and it's always a good time! Desire was a refreshing departure from the other books I've read in this world (but my first in this series) and other romance books I've been reading.

Mason and Lizzy's biggest hurdle is that they live a a couple of hours away from each other. Lizzy's life is in Ohio but there's less and less draw for her to stay there. She actually wants to move to Chicago to be with Mason and her brother that already is part of the family there, too, just hestiant to make that jump.

These two have already been talking and getting to know each other as friends for months before anything physical starts to happen. There's no drama, there's no cheating, just too people talking things out and choosing to make the leap of faith for love.

You might think it would be boring, but it was actually pretty sweet and still had the yearning we look for and the spice once they do decide to cross that line.

Thank you to the author for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Lisa Stinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

How good it is to be back in Chicago with the younger Gallo generation. We are getting ready for Zoey and Hunter's wedding. And in the meantime, we get to see Mason and Lizzy fall in love. These two have had a thing for each other since the moment they met. But with the distance between them, it wasn't going to be easy for them to start a relationship. With Lizzy coming back to Chicago more often with the wedding festivities happening, she starts spending a little more quality time with Mason. She soon realizes how much she really likes him.

Mason is so glad that Lizzy is coming around more. He is determined to have her move to Chicago. It shouldn't be too hard with her brother and niece being here. The more she comes around, Mason starts to show her how a real man can treat her. Mason has fallen fast for Lizzy, and he would do anything to have her with him all the time. It makes it easier knowing that his family cares for her as much as he does.

I seriously love the Gallo family and can't wait for more from the group in Chicago.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yesss another Chelle Bliss book and another Gallo story. I love everything about this family tree, and don’t worry you do not need to read them all to read Desire although I will suggest you do just cause. This story follows Mason and Lizzy. They met in book 4- Wish through Lizzy’s brother Hunter, so if you want to see that give it a read. As mentioned they met due to Lizzy’s brother and became great friends, but in reality Mason fell for her right away and just did not want to ruin anything for the first time in his life. Lizzy also fell for Mason but had insecurities due to an ex (fk that guy). Getting ready for a Gallo wedding Mason and Lizzy grow closer and their friendship blossoms to a relationship with distance being an issue as he lives in Chicago and she lives in Ohio. I love the way Mason treats Lizzy and how she doesn’t overthink everything as much anymore. Loved seeing some of the cousins from Men of Inked Heatwave and just the Gallo family in general. I am always happy for anyone who ends up finding a family in the Gallos.

[Lisa Hemming · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mason Gallo is a man on a mission to win Lizzy’s heart even though he thinks he already has. Long distance relationships are hard for anyone so he wanted to be honest with Lizzy as to what his intentions were. Every time she came to Chicago to visit her brother Hunter, Mason knew he had to step up his game in the romance department. Quiet dinners, getting to know each other in a deeper sense, and introducing her to his loveable Gallo family. Who can resist his fun-loving grandparents or a delicious home cooked Italian meal? But was Lizzy willing to leave the corporate life she had worked so hard for, and her dream home, for a new life in the big city? The Gallos are a formidable family and it would be hard to say no to any of them, especially Mason. “When I’m with him, nothing else matters. The world melts away, and I forget about the distance that is normally between us.” But for Lizzy, how long would that feeling last? His family could tell there was something special between them and was hoping for a happy ending! Mason is a thoughtful, kind and hardworking man who cherishes Lizzy with all of his heart!. As long as Mason and Lizzy stay true to their feelings, I know their future will be filled with fun adventures, family gatherings and endless love!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This latest installment of the Men of Inked Sinners series has been in the making since the last book of this series and it is a great addition to the series!

Mason has been attracted to Lizzy since she was introduced in Zoey and Hunter's book. He is no longer looking for meaningless relationships and wants what others in his family have found. Too bad that distance and their friendship are in the way. While Lizzy is battling feelings for Mason but does not want to ruin their friendship but can Mason change that feeling and get her to move closer while showing her the type of man he can be?

This is a great read that I enjoyed from start to finish. The chemistry between the pair is off the charts and their story moved along well. I enjoyed the return of the character from the previous books of the series as well as what is to come with this series.

Overall, this is a great read that I enjoyed from start to finish and would recommend to others.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Desire is Mason Gallo and Lizzy Evans friends to lovers romance and I loved everything about this journey . It’s book five in the Men of Inked Sinners Series and it’s a great addition to the Gallos.
Mason is the families perpetual bachelor and now he is running the family bar in Chicago. Never looking for a relationship until Lizzy comes crashing into his life and now the woman who lives hundreds of miles away occupies his nights and his days……….
Lizzy is in Chicago for her brother’s wedding and she wants nothing more than to spend time with Mason but can they make long distance work. So will these friends cross the line and take a leap of faith.
This is a well written, captivating story that drew me in and didn’t let me go until the final word was read and even then I wanted more. I fell hard and fast for Mason and I adored Lizzy but it was the Gallo family dynamics and loyalty that added another layer to this book.

[Tanya Rae ~ TaSTy WordGasms · Rating 5 out of 5]

Desire is the fifth book in the Men of Inked Sinners series. This is Mason Gallo and Lizzy Evans story. (FYI - Hunter Evans is Lizzy’s brother)

Omg the way Iris and Brax talk is just like my sons & their wives. I thought it was only my sons that had conversations like that.

I love the way that Chelle Bliss brings in the other Gallo’s that already have had their stories told so that a reader can follow how the rest of the family is doing! I can’t get enough of these Gallo’s! I loved reading Mason and Lizzy’s story! Thank you Chelle Bliss for another great book!!!

Reading Order: Standalone within Interconnected Series
CRAVE - Tate Gallo and Wylder
WANT - Brax Gallo and Iris
NEED - Lulu Gallo and Oliver “Oli” Weston’s
Wish - Zoey Gallo and Hunter Evans
Desire - Mason Gallo and Lizzy Evans

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fabulous read from start to finish. It’s a friend’s to lovers tale full of sweet swoony moments with a good amount of spice thrown in. Mason is smitten from the very start and instead of laying it on thick he takes his time, choosing the slow and steady approach rather than moving too quickly and potentially messing it all up. Lizzy is just as smitten but isn’t sure of the right move to make. She’s there to support her brother in his new life so is very aware of not wanting to mess anything up for him. What she fails to realise is that once the Gallo’s take you in there’s no going back.

There’s a few ups and downs as the story progresses but it’s fairly even in the drama stakes. Very low and it’s more just a nice easy story of two people falling in love and living together.

Like all the previous stories in this series you get a good helping of lots of Gallo family members. They’re a very close knit bunch so it’s a real family affair.

[Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐫𝐞 is the 5th book in the Men of Inked Sinners series by Chelle Bliss, featuring Mason and Lizzy’s much-anticipated friends to lovers romance. I’ve been waiting for this one ever since we met Lizzy in Wish, which highlighted her brother Hunter’s fall into love with Zoey. Playboy Mason Gallo was knocked off kilter by Lizzy with a look. He was all-in, patient, protective, and fully ready to turn over a new leaf for her. I loved the city boy/small town girl dichotomy and the fact that we got glimpses of both worlds. Mason was Gallo to his core, and he definitely won me over with his determination to win over his girl. I loved their connection, their chemistry, the funny meddling family that was classic Gallo banter and support. I was especially thrilled to see some of my favorite characters from the Florida branch. I could get lost in this world with this family! The way they welcomed Lizzy and Hunter in, as they as they always do, was everything!!😍 The preview for the next story had me salivating for more, too! I’m still a dedicated #gallogirl !

Thank you to Chelle Bliss for tor this ARC. My opinions are my own and are freely expressed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Men of Inked Sinners #5

Mason Gallo is co-owner of Hook & Hustle, his family owned Chicago bar. Since meeting Lizzy Evans his views on being a bachelor have changed and he's quite smitten with her and wants more. Problem is she doesn't live in Chicago. She's been in/out of town while her brother Hunter has been planning his wedding to Mason's cousin Zoey so they have become friends.

Lizzy lives in Star Falls, Ohio and has a corporate job that she always wanted but lately that seems to be changing. Her family is now in Chicago and she misses them.
With Mason and Lizzy spending more time together they grow closer. She has feelings for Mason but is afraid to take it to the next level but he is there proving to her they should be together.

Will she take the leap?

4 stars

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Insta-love and all that jazz! Revisiting the Gallo family is always a blast, and even as we get a new hero and heroine to sink our teeth into, we also get to see so many of our old favs from previous books in the long running series which is always refreshing. Mason and Lizzy are adorable and really have a cute connection. His cousin is marrying her brother, so it complicates how easily they want to give into the temptation and draw they have to each other. I enjoyed them a lot, but their story definitely felt rushed and underdeveloped ... more novella length storyline than a full novel in the series ... but they are addictive none-the-less.

I recommend this series and all the Gallo series that came prior to anyone that enjoys a close knit family who loves hard and doesn't think twice about butting into each other's lives as each sibling and cousin finds their forever love.

[Suzi (Obsessive Reading Disorder) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been waiting for Mason's story. Talk about a squishy romantic. Mason has decided to mend his playboy ways and he only has eyes for Lizzy.

I loved how supportive he was and so patient with her. I loved that he listened and didn't judge. Through all Lizzy's hang ups, he only supported her and told her how wonderful she was. It helped her to leave all the bad juju in the past and look forward to a life together.

As always with this author, she gives us peek at previous couples. The Gallo family is so big and the cousin love is full of banter and loud voices and drama. But the family wouldn't have it any other way.

Loving this spin off of the original Chicago Gallo's. Can't wait for Amelia's book!


I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Shelley C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Desire😍

Desire is the next book in the second generation of Southside Gallos and is all about Mason, our Gallo bartender and owner and Lizzy, sister of Hunter and soon to be sister-in-law to Zoey🤩 They’ve been taking things a visit at a time but it’s been almost a year since they first met and became friends, so Mason makes the decision to step things up the next time Lizzy comes by❣️

As usual when visiting with the Gallos, I feel like they are the most genuine and welcoming family and I love all their antics when they’re up to mischief but also how supportive they are too🙌 This will be a series I will always read as this family owns my heart❤️

Super excited to see what happens next after the bomb Amelia dropped😳 I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review😊

[Lisa Petty (Book Bangers Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh yes, here we go, folks. This is the book you have been waiting for, Mason GALLOOOOO!!!! From page one, you will fall in love with Mason. He's the easygoing brother who runs the bar. He's watching everyone he loves fall, and now he's ready. What he doesn't realize is that it's about to hit him when he least expects it. Lizzy Evans is just adorable and fun-loving. She's in town to help get things ready for her brother's wedding. But when these two meet, it's an instant friendship and chemistry. Like all Gallo men, he won't let her out of his sight. But he will also fight for what she wants. I loved watching them fall for each other. The only problem is that they live nowhere near each other. Will they have to decide whether one of them uproots their lives? This was so swoon-worthy.