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Bloodlines: A Dark Mafia Romance
He took her for leverage. She'll take him apart.
Amelia Havick wanted a fresh start, not a death sentence. But when she uncovers a secret tied to Emory Holt—the West Coast’s most notorious mafia boss—she becomes the spark that could ignite a war. Plunged into his underworld, she’s his to protect…or ruin.
Emory is no stranger to dirty business. No one leads a criminal empire without blood on their hands. With his organization on the brink of war, the key to stopping it lies within a woman too important to let go and too tempting to resist.
The plan is Get the girl. Extract the secret. Neutralize the threat.
But sweet Amelia isn’t the fragile pawn he expected. Beneath her softness is a quiet defiance that both intoxicates and infuriates him. She’s the one unraveling him, wielding the razor-thin line between lust and loathing like a weapon.
Monster. Murderer. Cold and calculating.
Amelia should hate Emory—God knows she tries—but her body betrays her better sense every time he’s near. Every brush of his hand, every heated gaze, strips away her defenses and blurs the line between captor and protector.
Forbidden desire is its own kind of war and love is a liability neither of them can afford. Not when a force from Emory’s past resurfaces, someone who once vowed to destroy everything he loves.
And this time, he’s here to finish the job.
Bloodlines is a dark mafia romance and the first book in the Unraveling series. It features enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, forbidden love, and plenty of spice. It is intended for mature audiences. Please see the content warnings on my website for more details.
Amelia Havick wanted a fresh start, not a death sentence. But when she uncovers a secret tied to Emory Holt—the West Coast’s most notorious mafia boss—she becomes the spark that could ignite a war. Plunged into his underworld, she’s his to protect…or ruin.
Emory is no stranger to dirty business. No one leads a criminal empire without blood on their hands. With his organization on the brink of war, the key to stopping it lies within a woman too important to let go and too tempting to resist.
The plan is Get the girl. Extract the secret. Neutralize the threat.
But sweet Amelia isn’t the fragile pawn he expected. Beneath her softness is a quiet defiance that both intoxicates and infuriates him. She’s the one unraveling him, wielding the razor-thin line between lust and loathing like a weapon.
Monster. Murderer. Cold and calculating.
Amelia should hate Emory—God knows she tries—but her body betrays her better sense every time he’s near. Every brush of his hand, every heated gaze, strips away her defenses and blurs the line between captor and protector.
Forbidden desire is its own kind of war and love is a liability neither of them can afford. Not when a force from Emory’s past resurfaces, someone who once vowed to destroy everything he loves.
And this time, he’s here to finish the job.
Bloodlines is a dark mafia romance and the first book in the Unraveling series. It features enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, forbidden love, and plenty of spice. It is intended for mature audiences. Please see the content warnings on my website for more details.
- GenresRomance
406 pages, Paperback
Published March 12, 2026
43 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
March 19, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Book 1 in the Unravelling series
Forced proximity, morally grey characters, high stakes, enemies to lovers.
C. E. Sarrow’s debut dark mafia romance hits hard.
Check the trigger warnings, there are quite a few.
Wow. This book didn’t just pull me in, it held me there.
From the very beginning, there’s this underlying tension that never really lets go. Not just between the characters, but in the world itself. It feels heavy, controlled, dangerous… like everything is always one wrong move away from falling apart. And that tension builds so naturally throughout the story that by the time things start to unravel, you’re already fully invested.
What I really appreciated was how immersive the world building felt. This wasn’t just a backdrop to support the romance. The mafia world here feels structured, political, and layered. There are consequences, alliances, power shifts, and history woven into everything. You don’t just read it, you understand it, and that makes every decision, every betrayal, every moment hit harder.
The title Bloodlines is honestly perfect. Not just in the obvious sense, but in how deeply it ties into identity, loyalty, and the weight of where you come from. It’s threaded through the entire story in a way that quietly shapes everything.
FMC: Amelia stood out to me straight away. She’s in her early twenties, but she doesn’t read as naive or reactive. There’s a quiet awareness to her, like she’s constantly observing, processing, understanding more than she lets on. She’s strong without being hardened, vulnerable without feeling weak, and emotionally intelligent in a way that makes her feel very real. I loved that balance.
MMC: Emory… he is exactly the kind of morally grey character I’m drawn to, but what made him stand out was the depth beneath that surface. There’s control, yes, but also restraint, conflict, and moments where you see something softer breaking through. That contrast made him so much more compelling than your typical dark romance MMC. 🖤
Their dynamic is where this book really shines. The tension isn’t just physical, it’s layered with mistrust, curiosity, resistance, and something slowly shifting underneath it all. The banter, the clashes, the moments where neither of them wants to give anything away… it felt earned. Nothing rushed, nothing forced.
And the spice… it builds. It has weight to it. It comes from something that’s been developing, not just dropped in for effect, which made it land so much better.
What surprised me most though was how gripping the plot itself was. This isn’t a story that relies solely on romance to carry it. The action, the twists, the constant sense of not quite knowing where things are heading… it kept me completely locked in. I genuinely didn’t want to put it down and ended up reading it in one sitting.
The side characters also felt purposeful. They weren’t just there to fill space, they added tension, depth, and future potential. You can feel that this story is part of something bigger, and it made me even more invested in what’s to come.
Some lines that stayed with me:
“Piece by piece, I will destroy everything you love.”
“Thunderbolt.”
The ending… it doesn’t just tease Book 2, it demands it. Not just because of the romance, but because the story itself feels like it’s only just beginning to open up.
If this is what C. E. Sarrow delivers in a debut, then this series has the potential to be something really special.
Thank you to Lovenotes PR and C. E. Sarrow for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Book 1 in the Unravelling series
Forced proximity, morally grey characters, high stakes, enemies to lovers.
C. E. Sarrow’s debut dark mafia romance hits hard.
Check the trigger warnings, there are quite a few.
Wow. This book didn’t just pull me in, it held me there.
From the very beginning, there’s this underlying tension that never really lets go. Not just between the characters, but in the world itself. It feels heavy, controlled, dangerous… like everything is always one wrong move away from falling apart. And that tension builds so naturally throughout the story that by the time things start to unravel, you’re already fully invested.
What I really appreciated was how immersive the world building felt. This wasn’t just a backdrop to support the romance. The mafia world here feels structured, political, and layered. There are consequences, alliances, power shifts, and history woven into everything. You don’t just read it, you understand it, and that makes every decision, every betrayal, every moment hit harder.
The title Bloodlines is honestly perfect. Not just in the obvious sense, but in how deeply it ties into identity, loyalty, and the weight of where you come from. It’s threaded through the entire story in a way that quietly shapes everything.
FMC: Amelia stood out to me straight away. She’s in her early twenties, but she doesn’t read as naive or reactive. There’s a quiet awareness to her, like she’s constantly observing, processing, understanding more than she lets on. She’s strong without being hardened, vulnerable without feeling weak, and emotionally intelligent in a way that makes her feel very real. I loved that balance.
MMC: Emory… he is exactly the kind of morally grey character I’m drawn to, but what made him stand out was the depth beneath that surface. There’s control, yes, but also restraint, conflict, and moments where you see something softer breaking through. That contrast made him so much more compelling than your typical dark romance MMC. 🖤
Their dynamic is where this book really shines. The tension isn’t just physical, it’s layered with mistrust, curiosity, resistance, and something slowly shifting underneath it all. The banter, the clashes, the moments where neither of them wants to give anything away… it felt earned. Nothing rushed, nothing forced.
And the spice… it builds. It has weight to it. It comes from something that’s been developing, not just dropped in for effect, which made it land so much better.
What surprised me most though was how gripping the plot itself was. This isn’t a story that relies solely on romance to carry it. The action, the twists, the constant sense of not quite knowing where things are heading… it kept me completely locked in. I genuinely didn’t want to put it down and ended up reading it in one sitting.
The side characters also felt purposeful. They weren’t just there to fill space, they added tension, depth, and future potential. You can feel that this story is part of something bigger, and it made me even more invested in what’s to come.
Some lines that stayed with me:
“Piece by piece, I will destroy everything you love.”
“Thunderbolt.”
The ending… it doesn’t just tease Book 2, it demands it. Not just because of the romance, but because the story itself feels like it’s only just beginning to open up.
If this is what C. E. Sarrow delivers in a debut, then this series has the potential to be something really special.
Thank you to Lovenotes PR and C. E. Sarrow for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2026
This mafia romance hooked me from the very first page, I couldn’t put it down. The story follows the Moriartys and Velascos, whose fragile truce begins to unravel as tensions rise.
Amelia was such a standout FMC and exactly what our MMC Emory needed. She’s his light to his darkness, offering him patience, understanding, and a safe space to truly be himself. I loved watching her give him a chance and gently help him navigate his emotions.
Mirabelle was another character I found really intriguing. I enjoyed the parts about her, but I’m still unsure how I feel about her relationship—something about it feels off, like she isn’t truly happy.
I’m already looking forward to the next book to see if Amelia and Emory can make it through the war unscathed and get the happily ever after that they deserve.
Amelia was such a standout FMC and exactly what our MMC Emory needed. She’s his light to his darkness, offering him patience, understanding, and a safe space to truly be himself. I loved watching her give him a chance and gently help him navigate his emotions.
Mirabelle was another character I found really intriguing. I enjoyed the parts about her, but I’m still unsure how I feel about her relationship—something about it feels off, like she isn’t truly happy.
I’m already looking forward to the next book to see if Amelia and Emory can make it through the war unscathed and get the happily ever after that they deserve.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2026
Booksta Link✨
Bloodlines is the debut novel from C.E. Sarrow, and it completely consumed me. This is a Dark Mafia Romance that had me hooked from the very first page — to the point where I read all 400-ish pages in a single sitting. I haven’t felt this obsessed or invested in a dark romance in what feels like forever, and it delivered everything that made me fall in love with the genre in the first place: addictive romance, high stakes, danger, a broody and possessive MMC, and phenomenal world-building.
The world-building in this novel is genuinely impressive, especially for a debut. Sarrow crafts Amelia’s background - as the daughter of a prosecutor determined to bring down the Moriarty crime family - with such depth and clarity. I loved that we didn’t just get Amelia’s perspective, but also chapters from her father, Cal. It added a layer I didn’t know I needed, giving insight not just into the legal side of things, but into the emotional weight of a father caught in this war. On the other side, Emory - the head of the Moriarty crime syndicate - and the criminal underworld itself are just as richly developed. The inner workings of the family, the power dynamics, the quiet brutality of it all … it’s done so well. These elements are further strengthened through Cal’s perspective, as well as the background characters, who all contribute to making the world feel expansive and alive.
Sarrow’s writing is completely addictive. I genuinely couldn’t put this book down. Lately, I’ve found a lot of dark romances falling into repetitive patterns, similar characters, similar plots, and it’s made me hesitant to pick up new ones. But Bloodlines felt fresh. Her prose is often romantic and deeply introspective, balancing the darker, more graphic moments with something softer, more tender. You get the shock factor, the danger, the intensity - but also a story about connection between two people who feel like old souls.
Amelia Havick is a standout for me. Accepted into Harvard to follow in her father’s footsteps, she instead chooses a quieter life working at a newspaper, drawn to poetry, stories, and simple pleasures. This is explored through her perspective, especially the fallour of her choice with her father. She’s introspective, loyal, stubborn, and deeply resilient. Watching her slowly open up to Emory, especially in terms of trust, was one of my favourite parts of the book. Through her, we see vulnerability, grief, loneliness, and strength all intertwined.
And Emory … he is easily one of the most standout MMCs I’ve read in a dark romance. He has all the hallmarks we love - possessive, alpha, dark, mysterious, broody - but what truly sets him apart are the quieter moments. The softness. The way he blushes, the way he’s genuinely stumped when asked what he actually wants from life. Those glimpses of vulnerability felt so real, and so rare in this genre. I love when these seemingly untouchable men are given space to be gentle, uncertain, human and Sarrow does that beautifully.
We’re also introduced to some incredible side characters, particularly through Emory’s perspective — his brothers within the syndicate and his sister, Mirabelle, who is absolutely up there as one of my favourites. Each character adds another layer to the story and the world Sarrow has created. And the villain? Truly despicable. Sarrow doesn’t hold back. The way she builds him up toward the end — giving us insight into his background and motivations — makes him all the more terrifying. You can feel the threat radiating off the page, which only heightens the stakes. Please read the trigger warnings before reading this book!
What I also loved is that Amelia and Emory aren’t opposites attract. If anything, they mirror each other. They share that sense of being old souls, of craving something simpler beneath the chaos of their worlds, and that made their connection feel even more authentic and grounded. The romance itself was everything I wanted. There’s definitely an element of insta-attraction, but emotionally it leans more into a slower burn. The multi-POV works so well here, allowing us to fully understand both sides — Amelia, torn from everything she knows yet drawn to Emory like a moth to flame, and Emory, trying to uncover what she knows (if anything at all). Their banter was incredible, and I loved that they didn’t shy away from the difficult conversations — especially around Amelia’s place in his world, given who her father is. It’s a massive hurdle, and one that feels genuinely explored rather than brushed aside.
The plot unfolds at a steady pace, centering around Amelia’s kidnapping — or perhaps rescue — by the very man her father is determined to destroy. As the story develops, it becomes clear that nothing is as simple as it seems, and Emory is far more complex than Amelia ever imagined. I’d say the story sits at about 40% plot and 60% romance, with the two constantly intertwining. The hidden enemies and layered tensions kept me guessing, and that ending? It left me with so many questions, so much anticipation, and a desperate need for what comes next.
A dark, intoxicating debut that delivers on every promise of the genre — Bloodlines is addictive, emotionally charged, and unforgettable, with characters that linger long after the final page. I cannot physically wait for book two!!!
Bloodlines is the debut novel from C.E. Sarrow, and it completely consumed me. This is a Dark Mafia Romance that had me hooked from the very first page — to the point where I read all 400-ish pages in a single sitting. I haven’t felt this obsessed or invested in a dark romance in what feels like forever, and it delivered everything that made me fall in love with the genre in the first place: addictive romance, high stakes, danger, a broody and possessive MMC, and phenomenal world-building.
The world-building in this novel is genuinely impressive, especially for a debut. Sarrow crafts Amelia’s background - as the daughter of a prosecutor determined to bring down the Moriarty crime family - with such depth and clarity. I loved that we didn’t just get Amelia’s perspective, but also chapters from her father, Cal. It added a layer I didn’t know I needed, giving insight not just into the legal side of things, but into the emotional weight of a father caught in this war. On the other side, Emory - the head of the Moriarty crime syndicate - and the criminal underworld itself are just as richly developed. The inner workings of the family, the power dynamics, the quiet brutality of it all … it’s done so well. These elements are further strengthened through Cal’s perspective, as well as the background characters, who all contribute to making the world feel expansive and alive.
Emory glanced at Amelia in the passenger seat. Grief had imparted a haunting stillness in her. She wore it like armor and settled comfortably in the silence between them.
Sarrow’s writing is completely addictive. I genuinely couldn’t put this book down. Lately, I’ve found a lot of dark romances falling into repetitive patterns, similar characters, similar plots, and it’s made me hesitant to pick up new ones. But Bloodlines felt fresh. Her prose is often romantic and deeply introspective, balancing the darker, more graphic moments with something softer, more tender. You get the shock factor, the danger, the intensity - but also a story about connection between two people who feel like old souls.
Amelia Havick is a standout for me. Accepted into Harvard to follow in her father’s footsteps, she instead chooses a quieter life working at a newspaper, drawn to poetry, stories, and simple pleasures. This is explored through her perspective, especially the fallour of her choice with her father. She’s introspective, loyal, stubborn, and deeply resilient. Watching her slowly open up to Emory, especially in terms of trust, was one of my favourite parts of the book. Through her, we see vulnerability, grief, loneliness, and strength all intertwined.
And Emory … he is easily one of the most standout MMCs I’ve read in a dark romance. He has all the hallmarks we love - possessive, alpha, dark, mysterious, broody - but what truly sets him apart are the quieter moments. The softness. The way he blushes, the way he’s genuinely stumped when asked what he actually wants from life. Those glimpses of vulnerability felt so real, and so rare in this genre. I love when these seemingly untouchable men are given space to be gentle, uncertain, human and Sarrow does that beautifully.
Most funerals these days were couched as a celebration of life. The dead didn't need anyone's sorrow, and perhaps the living didn't know how to cope with it.
We’re also introduced to some incredible side characters, particularly through Emory’s perspective — his brothers within the syndicate and his sister, Mirabelle, who is absolutely up there as one of my favourites. Each character adds another layer to the story and the world Sarrow has created. And the villain? Truly despicable. Sarrow doesn’t hold back. The way she builds him up toward the end — giving us insight into his background and motivations — makes him all the more terrifying. You can feel the threat radiating off the page, which only heightens the stakes. Please read the trigger warnings before reading this book!
What I also loved is that Amelia and Emory aren’t opposites attract. If anything, they mirror each other. They share that sense of being old souls, of craving something simpler beneath the chaos of their worlds, and that made their connection feel even more authentic and grounded. The romance itself was everything I wanted. There’s definitely an element of insta-attraction, but emotionally it leans more into a slower burn. The multi-POV works so well here, allowing us to fully understand both sides — Amelia, torn from everything she knows yet drawn to Emory like a moth to flame, and Emory, trying to uncover what she knows (if anything at all). Their banter was incredible, and I loved that they didn’t shy away from the difficult conversations — especially around Amelia’s place in his world, given who her father is. It’s a massive hurdle, and one that feels genuinely explored rather than brushed aside.
If he could hold a mirror to her, she'd watch her own willing surrender and love in the look she gave.It spurred Emory's possessive streak, She'd belong to no one else ever again. Mine.
The plot unfolds at a steady pace, centering around Amelia’s kidnapping — or perhaps rescue — by the very man her father is determined to destroy. As the story develops, it becomes clear that nothing is as simple as it seems, and Emory is far more complex than Amelia ever imagined. I’d say the story sits at about 40% plot and 60% romance, with the two constantly intertwining. The hidden enemies and layered tensions kept me guessing, and that ending? It left me with so many questions, so much anticipation, and a desperate need for what comes next.
A dark, intoxicating debut that delivers on every promise of the genre — Bloodlines is addictive, emotionally charged, and unforgettable, with characters that linger long after the final page. I cannot physically wait for book two!!!
March 26, 2026
Dark romance but make it cozy?
So I've read a handful of dark romance books, some I've enjoyed, and others I haven't, and the ones that I always dislike because A. Smut takes over from the plot, and B. It just feels like no one is redeemable.
Right from the get-go, I knew this was going to be different. There's something soft and lyrical in the way this story is told, a far cry from the usual gritty nature in which other dark romance is written. The romance itself also doesn't feel dark romance; it's very much giving cozy vibes, there's a tenderness to the relationship, made all the more so by the fact our MMC Emory isn't an actual douche. He's an old soul trapped in a world that he joined for one reason and one reason only, and it's a world he'd escape if he could.
The book feels real In a way that it feels like the way real, actual people would react to certain situations, and it just adds a level to the book that I wasn't expecting.
The darkness in this book comes from the opposing side, and it is dark, and at some times it feels overly dark, like shock value dark for the sake of being able to say the book is dark.
We also get a lot of being told things in this book vs being shown it. We skip half of Emory and Amelia's growth. We're told they've spent all this time fighting, and then at some stage it goes from hating each other to something else without us witnessing it. Now I didn't overly mind it because it was done well, I just wished we got a little more.
The book started to lose me around the halfway mark, but especially after they slept together, because I feel this book did fall a little into the trap of other books that once smut is on page, it's on page, like why did we need to be adding smutty thoughts etc while at a funeral?
The inner conflict that ended up happening felt almost forced, and it clashed with what we knew of Emory. I can't get my head around how he went from saying he was going to talk to her in the morning to Mira being able to sneak Amelia out of the house. We're also thrown a lot of loopholes when it comes to the characters we spend time knowing them one way, and suddenly it's as if they've had a personality transplant, and I do understand why it's done, but it does make it hard to follow.
The last couple of chapters IMO could have been cut entirely, they felt better suited for book two, or weaved in the story in a different way, they just seemed to make the end of the book drag on a little, when there was a perfect ending a little further behind from that.
It was honestly a great read, and I was really pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed it given I tend to give captive/captor books a bit of a wide berth because they tend to be handled poorly, but this was done well, though Amelia girl, you settled in way too easily.
So I've read a handful of dark romance books, some I've enjoyed, and others I haven't, and the ones that I always dislike because A. Smut takes over from the plot, and B. It just feels like no one is redeemable.
Right from the get-go, I knew this was going to be different. There's something soft and lyrical in the way this story is told, a far cry from the usual gritty nature in which other dark romance is written. The romance itself also doesn't feel dark romance; it's very much giving cozy vibes, there's a tenderness to the relationship, made all the more so by the fact our MMC Emory isn't an actual douche. He's an old soul trapped in a world that he joined for one reason and one reason only, and it's a world he'd escape if he could.
The book feels real In a way that it feels like the way real, actual people would react to certain situations, and it just adds a level to the book that I wasn't expecting.
The darkness in this book comes from the opposing side, and it is dark, and at some times it feels overly dark, like shock value dark for the sake of being able to say the book is dark.
We also get a lot of being told things in this book vs being shown it. We skip half of Emory and Amelia's growth. We're told they've spent all this time fighting, and then at some stage it goes from hating each other to something else without us witnessing it. Now I didn't overly mind it because it was done well, I just wished we got a little more.
The book started to lose me around the halfway mark, but especially after they slept together, because I feel this book did fall a little into the trap of other books that once smut is on page, it's on page, like why did we need to be adding smutty thoughts etc while at a funeral?
The inner conflict that ended up happening felt almost forced, and it clashed with what we knew of Emory. I can't get my head around how he went from saying he was going to talk to her in the morning to Mira being able to sneak Amelia out of the house. We're also thrown a lot of loopholes when it comes to the characters we spend time knowing them one way, and suddenly it's as if they've had a personality transplant, and I do understand why it's done, but it does make it hard to follow.
The last couple of chapters IMO could have been cut entirely, they felt better suited for book two, or weaved in the story in a different way, they just seemed to make the end of the book drag on a little, when there was a perfect ending a little further behind from that.
It was honestly a great read, and I was really pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed it given I tend to give captive/captor books a bit of a wide berth because they tend to be handled poorly, but this was done well, though Amelia girl, you settled in way too easily.
March 21, 2026
ARC Review
The ending?? I’m sorry I need the next book immediately because I have far too many questions and need some answers, but in a good wanting to know more of the story way. This was so good and held my attention the entire time, I did go into it not knowing much, just what I had seen on social media of the authors posts promoting her book and it intrigued me. I loved the writing style of this it was so different than what I’ve read before and it was written very well. She set this story up really well for it to go many different directions and I’m really excited to see where this world goes. It is dark but it also was a good time. It is multiple different povs and I liked that because you get more of the picture as to what’s going on. You have his sister’s perspective for a short potion, mainly Amelia and Emory’s perspective for the book, Amelia’s father’s perspective as well and then a few other characters that pop in here and there.
I am a sucker for a good mafia romance book and this is definitely that and had a good plot to it that kept me hooked from the moment I started it. Amelia accidentally sees something she isn’t supposed to and it leads to her getting tangled up with the wrong crowd and it shifts her entire world. One minute she’s going to be moving to Arizona and the next she’s a captive with this mafia family and she knows something they want to know about a rival family that could change everything…
I love Amelia and her strength she found in herself after what she went through. She was so lost in the beginning and I still think she is and needs to find more of a purpose but she’s finally choosing things for herself and not for others and that’s a huge step for her. Emory is a hot headed broody mafia leader and doesn’t let anyone in, like he has his close friends and his sister and the guy who took him in as a child but they don’t truly know everything about him. He doesn’t let his walls down for anyone but Amelia, somehow she gets under his skin and knows things no one else knows. She sees him for who and what he is even when everyone around him doesn’t. Emory has had to make so many rough choices and he carries them with him he doesn’t just go around making dumb decisions without thinking of the consequences. She’s his calm sea in a wild rough world. Their banter was so fun to read, they’re both so different but work soooo well.
He’s ready to give up everything for her so she doesn’t have to live in this crazy mafia world but who knows if that will ever happened based off the events that take place in this book. I highly recommend for a fast paced, wild mafia story where opposites attract.
The ending?? I’m sorry I need the next book immediately because I have far too many questions and need some answers, but in a good wanting to know more of the story way. This was so good and held my attention the entire time, I did go into it not knowing much, just what I had seen on social media of the authors posts promoting her book and it intrigued me. I loved the writing style of this it was so different than what I’ve read before and it was written very well. She set this story up really well for it to go many different directions and I’m really excited to see where this world goes. It is dark but it also was a good time. It is multiple different povs and I liked that because you get more of the picture as to what’s going on. You have his sister’s perspective for a short potion, mainly Amelia and Emory’s perspective for the book, Amelia’s father’s perspective as well and then a few other characters that pop in here and there.
I am a sucker for a good mafia romance book and this is definitely that and had a good plot to it that kept me hooked from the moment I started it. Amelia accidentally sees something she isn’t supposed to and it leads to her getting tangled up with the wrong crowd and it shifts her entire world. One minute she’s going to be moving to Arizona and the next she’s a captive with this mafia family and she knows something they want to know about a rival family that could change everything…
I love Amelia and her strength she found in herself after what she went through. She was so lost in the beginning and I still think she is and needs to find more of a purpose but she’s finally choosing things for herself and not for others and that’s a huge step for her. Emory is a hot headed broody mafia leader and doesn’t let anyone in, like he has his close friends and his sister and the guy who took him in as a child but they don’t truly know everything about him. He doesn’t let his walls down for anyone but Amelia, somehow she gets under his skin and knows things no one else knows. She sees him for who and what he is even when everyone around him doesn’t. Emory has had to make so many rough choices and he carries them with him he doesn’t just go around making dumb decisions without thinking of the consequences. She’s his calm sea in a wild rough world. Their banter was so fun to read, they’re both so different but work soooo well.
He’s ready to give up everything for her so she doesn’t have to live in this crazy mafia world but who knows if that will ever happened based off the events that take place in this book. I highly recommend for a fast paced, wild mafia story where opposites attract.
March 19, 2026
This one surprised me in the best way. I went in expecting a dark mafia romance, but it delivered something that actually felt tense, dangerous, and at times genuinely unsettling. The story follows Amelia, who’s just trying to start over when she stumbles into something tied to Emory Holt, a powerful and ruthless crime boss. What starts as her being taken as leverage quickly spirals into something much bigger, with the threat of all-out war simmering beneath every interaction.
And let me say this, the villain in this book? Absolutely depraved. It’s rare a character actually creeps under my skin, but this one did. The kind of presence that lingers even when they’re not on the page.
The pacing was spot on. Everything flowed seamlessly, each scene building tension without dragging, and the writing had these sharp, clever little quips that made even the heavier moments feel intentional and well-crafted.
Amelia as an FMC was different for me. She’s not your typical strong-in-your-face heroine, she’s softer, quieter, almost fragile on the surface, but there’s a resilience in her that grows as the story unfolds. I won’t lie, there were moments I felt frustrated with her, especially early on, but by the end she felt very real and fully formed.
Emory, though… he’s layered. Definitely not a “good” man, but not hollow either. He’s the kind of character who makes hard, brutal choices, yet there’s something restrained underneath it all. Kindness buried deep, wrapped in steel and barbed wire. His dynamic with Amelia walks that fine line between control and protection, and it keeps you hooked because you’re never entirely sure where it’s going to land.
One of my favorite parts was actually his relationship with his sister, Mil. Those moments added a softness to him that you don’t expect, and it grounded his character in a way that made the stakes feel more personal.
Also, small detail, but I loved the mentions of Sacramento and Redding since I live between them, it made the whole world feel a little more real, a little closer to home.
Overall, the book had this eerie, almost too-real feeling when it came to the darker elements. Even knowing it’s fiction, it was written in a way that made it feel alive. Twisted, intense, and emotional in all the right places, I genuinely enjoyed it.
And let me say this, the villain in this book? Absolutely depraved. It’s rare a character actually creeps under my skin, but this one did. The kind of presence that lingers even when they’re not on the page.
The pacing was spot on. Everything flowed seamlessly, each scene building tension without dragging, and the writing had these sharp, clever little quips that made even the heavier moments feel intentional and well-crafted.
Amelia as an FMC was different for me. She’s not your typical strong-in-your-face heroine, she’s softer, quieter, almost fragile on the surface, but there’s a resilience in her that grows as the story unfolds. I won’t lie, there were moments I felt frustrated with her, especially early on, but by the end she felt very real and fully formed.
Emory, though… he’s layered. Definitely not a “good” man, but not hollow either. He’s the kind of character who makes hard, brutal choices, yet there’s something restrained underneath it all. Kindness buried deep, wrapped in steel and barbed wire. His dynamic with Amelia walks that fine line between control and protection, and it keeps you hooked because you’re never entirely sure where it’s going to land.
One of my favorite parts was actually his relationship with his sister, Mil. Those moments added a softness to him that you don’t expect, and it grounded his character in a way that made the stakes feel more personal.
Also, small detail, but I loved the mentions of Sacramento and Redding since I live between them, it made the whole world feel a little more real, a little closer to home.
Overall, the book had this eerie, almost too-real feeling when it came to the darker elements. Even knowing it’s fiction, it was written in a way that made it feel alive. Twisted, intense, and emotional in all the right places, I genuinely enjoyed it.
March 22, 2026
Thank you for allowing me to read this as an arc I was so excited to read it. And I loved every minute of it.
100% READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS
I loved all the characters apart from the brother obviously. Amelia is our headstrong but lost main FMC. She just wants to find where she belongs in the world but the universe has different planes. In walks our stubborn and headstrong Emory. Where he might be headstrong he is very much loyal to his family and those he loves.
Pulled into a world of the mafia we follow very much an enemy to lovers romance between Amelia and Emory. Amelia is held captive in a world she doesn't want to be apart of but find herself leaning towards Emory even though she knows how dangerous it will be. Emory knows what comes with loving him but refuses to allow anyone to touch Amelia. You know the whole delicious touch her and 💀 vibes 😍 my fav.
The storyline is so well written it keeps you engaged throughout the book. And well that ending.... I guess we are waiting for book 2 🤔 let's put it this way we better get a book 2 haha 😂. I wanna know what happens at the end especially since the dad hinted possible getting help from a blood relations to get Amelia back. Now was she hinting at the sister or the brother 🤔.
Also great amount of spice I loved it very much and it didn't overpower the book either. For me it was the right amount to keep the storyline rolling. Plus it allows space for their little dates and games to add a sweet touch for building on their relationship and opening up to each other. Emory is sweet but just the right amount of danger in the bedroom.
If anything happens to Liam I think I will be really sad as he kinda was the father figure to the mafia. And obviously we left him in the house. Which kinda gives off evil brother coming for him vibes or I might be reading into it too much.
The only thing I would suggest is maybe putting the name of who pov we are following at the top. As I got a little confused with who I was following especially when the dads pov come up.
But otherwise I loved it so much and need to know what happens so when is the next one 😂. I will be recommending this to everyone I know who likes dark romances.
100% READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS
I loved all the characters apart from the brother obviously. Amelia is our headstrong but lost main FMC. She just wants to find where she belongs in the world but the universe has different planes. In walks our stubborn and headstrong Emory. Where he might be headstrong he is very much loyal to his family and those he loves.
Pulled into a world of the mafia we follow very much an enemy to lovers romance between Amelia and Emory. Amelia is held captive in a world she doesn't want to be apart of but find herself leaning towards Emory even though she knows how dangerous it will be. Emory knows what comes with loving him but refuses to allow anyone to touch Amelia. You know the whole delicious touch her and 💀 vibes 😍 my fav.
The storyline is so well written it keeps you engaged throughout the book. And well that ending.... I guess we are waiting for book 2 🤔 let's put it this way we better get a book 2 haha 😂. I wanna know what happens at the end especially since the dad hinted possible getting help from a blood relations to get Amelia back. Now was she hinting at the sister or the brother 🤔.
Also great amount of spice I loved it very much and it didn't overpower the book either. For me it was the right amount to keep the storyline rolling. Plus it allows space for their little dates and games to add a sweet touch for building on their relationship and opening up to each other. Emory is sweet but just the right amount of danger in the bedroom.
If anything happens to Liam I think I will be really sad as he kinda was the father figure to the mafia. And obviously we left him in the house. Which kinda gives off evil brother coming for him vibes or I might be reading into it too much.
The only thing I would suggest is maybe putting the name of who pov we are following at the top. As I got a little confused with who I was following especially when the dads pov come up.
But otherwise I loved it so much and need to know what happens so when is the next one 😂. I will be recommending this to everyone I know who likes dark romances.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2026
C.E Sarrow WOW! I’m so impressed by this book. This is my ARC review- thank you for the opportunity to read this story and meet these characters.
•This book is a dark mafia romance. Amelia is the FMC with Emory being the MMC. Can’t get TOO into detail because ya know, ARC- but this book is about rival mafia groups and when a leadership change occurs, things get CRAZY.
I have so many comments. This book is beautifully written and things are explained so well. While reading, I was able to paint a detailed picture in my head of everything going on which was great because I struggle with books when I can’t picture situations.
* The pacing of this book was absolutely fantastic. I generally don’t love a book that has a lot of what is referred to as tension fatigue. Especially with a longer book. This book does not have this as an issue because between each moment of tension, there are calmer scenes that give the right amount of time to relax a bit and get to know the characters better.
* I found myself on the edge of my seat for a lot of this book and loved that because who wants to read a boring book?
* The spice was 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🙈🫣 without taking away from the plot
* Please read the trigger warnings!
* This book ends on a cliffhanger and now I NEED the next book like yesterday 🙈
* Only things I would change: I feel like the words used in this book were above my vocabulary level and found myself having to use the dictionary on my kindle to check word meanings a lot. And lastly I don’t love a 3rd person writing style only because I feel that it takes away from understanding character emotion but that said, I feel that emotions were still well described.
* Overall, I give this 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, please read this; you won’t regret it!
•This book is a dark mafia romance. Amelia is the FMC with Emory being the MMC. Can’t get TOO into detail because ya know, ARC- but this book is about rival mafia groups and when a leadership change occurs, things get CRAZY.
I have so many comments. This book is beautifully written and things are explained so well. While reading, I was able to paint a detailed picture in my head of everything going on which was great because I struggle with books when I can’t picture situations.
* The pacing of this book was absolutely fantastic. I generally don’t love a book that has a lot of what is referred to as tension fatigue. Especially with a longer book. This book does not have this as an issue because between each moment of tension, there are calmer scenes that give the right amount of time to relax a bit and get to know the characters better.
* I found myself on the edge of my seat for a lot of this book and loved that because who wants to read a boring book?
* The spice was 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🙈🫣 without taking away from the plot
* Please read the trigger warnings!
* This book ends on a cliffhanger and now I NEED the next book like yesterday 🙈
* Only things I would change: I feel like the words used in this book were above my vocabulary level and found myself having to use the dictionary on my kindle to check word meanings a lot. And lastly I don’t love a 3rd person writing style only because I feel that it takes away from understanding character emotion but that said, I feel that emotions were still well described.
* Overall, I give this 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, please read this; you won’t regret it!
March 21, 2026
I was excited to receive an ARC of this debut novel by C.E. Sarrow, and it did not disappoint!
I finished it in three days and not because it’s a light read, but because I genuinely couldn’t put it down. The story dives right in and moves at a steady pace. I felt like it balanced plot and tension really well, so I wasn’t just reading for the romance; I was reading to find out what was unfolding and where it was all going.
The romance leans into a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers dynamic with a morally gray MMC and an FMC who is sharp, stubborn, and still realistically messy in her choices and reactions. Scratch that— they are BOTH realistically messy in their choices and reactions. There was a time or two or more where I was letting out big sighs or commenting out loud for them to get their act together 🤦🏻♀️. It’s definitely a spicy read 🌶️ and also fairly graphic in parts, so I’d recommend checking the trigger warnings ahead of time.
I found the world-building to be thoughtfully layered without feeling overwhelming, and the family dynamics hint at a larger universe that I could easily see her expanding on in future books.
Overall, I found this to be a compelling start for C.E. Sarrow. The mix of character dynamics, pacing, and an intriguing broader world left me very curious about what comes next i.e., I’m ready to read the second book now please ! 😆🔥🥵👑
I finished it in three days and not because it’s a light read, but because I genuinely couldn’t put it down. The story dives right in and moves at a steady pace. I felt like it balanced plot and tension really well, so I wasn’t just reading for the romance; I was reading to find out what was unfolding and where it was all going.
The romance leans into a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers dynamic with a morally gray MMC and an FMC who is sharp, stubborn, and still realistically messy in her choices and reactions. Scratch that— they are BOTH realistically messy in their choices and reactions. There was a time or two or more where I was letting out big sighs or commenting out loud for them to get their act together 🤦🏻♀️. It’s definitely a spicy read 🌶️ and also fairly graphic in parts, so I’d recommend checking the trigger warnings ahead of time.
I found the world-building to be thoughtfully layered without feeling overwhelming, and the family dynamics hint at a larger universe that I could easily see her expanding on in future books.
Overall, I found this to be a compelling start for C.E. Sarrow. The mix of character dynamics, pacing, and an intriguing broader world left me very curious about what comes next i.e., I’m ready to read the second book now please ! 😆🔥🥵👑
March 24, 2026
Forced proximity, enemies to lovers, and high stakes. This book has everything that I am looking for in a mafia romance. I was hooked right at the very beginning. Right at the very start of the story, there’s this tension that you feel and you really can’t let go of. The world feels like it’s hanging on by a thread or just about to topple over and one wrong move would do just the trick for everything to fall apart. The mafia world genuinely feels structured and organized. It doesn’t just serve as a prop for the romance. The chemistry and tension between Amelia & Emory? *chef’s kiss* Amelia doesn’t strike me as a naïve FMC, she is aware of what is going on around her. And then we have Emory, our MMC. He has become one of my favorite morally grey characters. He definitely has a hard exterior but there were some moments/scenes throughout the book where you could see something soft about him peak through. The spice in the book gradually builds over time and I like that. It’s not that I don’t like spice out of the blue, but a book where spice builds is a nice break every once in a while. The plot itself was very gripping. It reeled me in right at the very start. I am very excited for Book 2! Overall: 4.5/5 ⭐️
A huge thank you to Lovenotes PR and C.E. Sarrow for the eARC in exchange for an honest review 🫶🏽
A huge thank you to Lovenotes PR and C.E. Sarrow for the eARC in exchange for an honest review 🫶🏽
March 22, 2026
✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
Opposites attract but in this story… it’s more like collision course meets slow-burn tension 🔥
She’s thrown into a world she never asked for, where control is an illusion and every move feels like walking a tightrope. He’s the one in charge, carrying power like armor, but with a target painted squarely on his back. And now? She’s tangled in his world, knowing things she shouldn’t… making her just as vulnerable.
This book had such a unique feel compared to others I’ve read in the genre. The writing pulls you in with this dark, almost hypnotic vibe, layering suspense, danger, and emotion in a way that keeps you turning pages. The dynamic between the characters builds steadily, with that underlying tension always simmering beneath the surface.
While it didn’t completely hook me the way I hoped, I was still intrigued by the direction of the story, especially with the world-building and the character arcs starting to unfold.
If you love:
🖤 Dark mafia vibes
🔥 Slow-burn tension
⚡ Forced proximity
🩸 High-stakes suspense
…this one is definitely worth checking out.
I’m really curious to see where the story goes next in book 2 of the series.
Thank you LoveNotespr for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
Opposites attract but in this story… it’s more like collision course meets slow-burn tension 🔥
She’s thrown into a world she never asked for, where control is an illusion and every move feels like walking a tightrope. He’s the one in charge, carrying power like armor, but with a target painted squarely on his back. And now? She’s tangled in his world, knowing things she shouldn’t… making her just as vulnerable.
This book had such a unique feel compared to others I’ve read in the genre. The writing pulls you in with this dark, almost hypnotic vibe, layering suspense, danger, and emotion in a way that keeps you turning pages. The dynamic between the characters builds steadily, with that underlying tension always simmering beneath the surface.
While it didn’t completely hook me the way I hoped, I was still intrigued by the direction of the story, especially with the world-building and the character arcs starting to unfold.
If you love:
🖤 Dark mafia vibes
🔥 Slow-burn tension
⚡ Forced proximity
🩸 High-stakes suspense
…this one is definitely worth checking out.
I’m really curious to see where the story goes next in book 2 of the series.
Thank you LoveNotespr for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
March 25, 2026
This book was very difficult to put down. Dark, dangerous, high stakes, captivating & immersive. The writing style was absolutely brilliant & I found myself re-reading certain sentences because of how beautifully written they were. So much depth & so addictive.
The tension, both sexually & mentally, between the FMC & MMC was exquisite & it was oh so satisfying when they finally gave in to each other. The spice was spicy but in a more deeply intimate & romantic way than a lot of dark romance books, it had me swooning & desperate for more. I thoroughly enjoyed how both the main characters had many layers and reading about a mafia boss with a soft side in this way was very refreshing.
The plot itself was also really good & had me on the edge of my seat. The inner workings of the crime syndicates, the legal insight from the FMC’s father & the family dynamics throughout this book were also done really well & added more perspectives & details than I was expecting.
Such an emotionally charged story that felt fresh & different than a typical dark mafia romance. Genuinely cannot wait for book 2! 🖤🖤🖤
The tension, both sexually & mentally, between the FMC & MMC was exquisite & it was oh so satisfying when they finally gave in to each other. The spice was spicy but in a more deeply intimate & romantic way than a lot of dark romance books, it had me swooning & desperate for more. I thoroughly enjoyed how both the main characters had many layers and reading about a mafia boss with a soft side in this way was very refreshing.
The plot itself was also really good & had me on the edge of my seat. The inner workings of the crime syndicates, the legal insight from the FMC’s father & the family dynamics throughout this book were also done really well & added more perspectives & details than I was expecting.
Such an emotionally charged story that felt fresh & different than a typical dark mafia romance. Genuinely cannot wait for book 2! 🖤🖤🖤
March 22, 2026
This book completely hooked me from the start. It was addictive in that “just one more chapter” way that turns into finishing half the book in one sitting.
The world-building was top tier, rich, immersive, and incredibly well-developed without feeling overwhelming. And what I appreciated most was how different it felt from the typical dark mafia romance formula. This wasn’t the usual “king of the underworld sees girl, wants girl, kidnaps girl, forces girl to marry him” storyline we’ve all read a hundred times. Instead, the plot felt fresh, twisty, and full of moments that kept me locked in and needing to know what would happen next.
The relationship between the FMC and MMC was so well done—tense, intentional, and consuming. And had me completely invested and impatient (in the best way).
Knowing this is C.E. Sarrow’s debut makes it even more impressive. I’m already so excited to see what she does next because this did not feel like a “first book” at all.
I’m already counting down to book two.
The world-building was top tier, rich, immersive, and incredibly well-developed without feeling overwhelming. And what I appreciated most was how different it felt from the typical dark mafia romance formula. This wasn’t the usual “king of the underworld sees girl, wants girl, kidnaps girl, forces girl to marry him” storyline we’ve all read a hundred times. Instead, the plot felt fresh, twisty, and full of moments that kept me locked in and needing to know what would happen next.
The relationship between the FMC and MMC was so well done—tense, intentional, and consuming. And had me completely invested and impatient (in the best way).
Knowing this is C.E. Sarrow’s debut makes it even more impressive. I’m already so excited to see what she does next because this did not feel like a “first book” at all.
I’m already counting down to book two.
March 23, 2026
Thank you Lovenotes Pr and C.E. Sarrow for the ARC in exchange of an honest review!
Wow! This book was amazing. It grabbed me from start to finish! Now this is what I call a mafia book. The tension between Amelia and Emory was great, it wasn't rushed nor was it lacking. I think it was well organized and perfectly paced. The spice was great it wasn't like other book that concentrate more on the spice. This book was well explained in detail which was great, I didn't have to picture different scenarios to understand 🤭 This will have you on your toes no matter what part of the book you're reading. This author took the time to develop a great story but that ending 😨 Um I need book 2 like now! The only thing I didn't like was that you you had to pay attention in each chapter to see who's POV you were reading other than that it's a really good book and I highly recommend it. I cannot wait for the next book! If you haven't added it to your TBR then I don't know what you are writing for. This book comes out on April 2, 2026
Wow! This book was amazing. It grabbed me from start to finish! Now this is what I call a mafia book. The tension between Amelia and Emory was great, it wasn't rushed nor was it lacking. I think it was well organized and perfectly paced. The spice was great it wasn't like other book that concentrate more on the spice. This book was well explained in detail which was great, I didn't have to picture different scenarios to understand 🤭 This will have you on your toes no matter what part of the book you're reading. This author took the time to develop a great story but that ending 😨 Um I need book 2 like now! The only thing I didn't like was that you you had to pay attention in each chapter to see who's POV you were reading other than that it's a really good book and I highly recommend it. I cannot wait for the next book! If you haven't added it to your TBR then I don't know what you are writing for. This book comes out on April 2, 2026
March 26, 2026
ARC review 🖤 4.5⭐️
This debut novel by C.E. Sarrow is really something special!! A huge thank you for the ARC copy 🖤
This book was a fantastic take on a dark mafia romance. The FMC Amelia discovered a secret about the MMC Emory, costing her her job and her freedom. Emory is a mafia boss- and enemy to Amelia’s father, who dedicated his career to taking down the Moriarty crime syndicate. Taken captive by Emory and his men, Amelia must decide where she really belongs.
The spice was perfect. It builds beautifully and did not feel forced or rushed. I actually liked that it didn’t take over the book as there were plenty of other interesting plot points and excellent world building to enjoy. The pacing of the story was well done and I wanted to keep turning the pages to see what happened.
The main characters had great chemistry between them and their relationship is a perfect example of opposites attracting. I love them both, and enjoyed reading about their characters growing and evolving as they came together.
I loved getting immersed into this world and genuinely cannot wait for the next book! I highly recommend following Sarrow, I cannot wait to see what else she writes in the future 🖤
Tropes:
🖤 Dark romance
🖤 Mafia romance
🖤 Spicy 🌶️
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🖤 Forbidden love
🖤 Morally grey MMC
🖤 Captor/ captive
This debut novel by C.E. Sarrow is really something special!! A huge thank you for the ARC copy 🖤
This book was a fantastic take on a dark mafia romance. The FMC Amelia discovered a secret about the MMC Emory, costing her her job and her freedom. Emory is a mafia boss- and enemy to Amelia’s father, who dedicated his career to taking down the Moriarty crime syndicate. Taken captive by Emory and his men, Amelia must decide where she really belongs.
The spice was perfect. It builds beautifully and did not feel forced or rushed. I actually liked that it didn’t take over the book as there were plenty of other interesting plot points and excellent world building to enjoy. The pacing of the story was well done and I wanted to keep turning the pages to see what happened.
The main characters had great chemistry between them and their relationship is a perfect example of opposites attracting. I love them both, and enjoyed reading about their characters growing and evolving as they came together.
I loved getting immersed into this world and genuinely cannot wait for the next book! I highly recommend following Sarrow, I cannot wait to see what else she writes in the future 🖤
Tropes:
🖤 Dark romance
🖤 Mafia romance
🖤 Spicy 🌶️
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🖤 Forbidden love
🖤 Morally grey MMC
🖤 Captor/ captive
March 26, 2026
I received this book as an ARC, thank you for allowing me to read!
Amelia has seen something she can't unsee, and now she is being hunted. All she wants is a fresh start from her Dad, but she gets caught up in something much bigger than she even thought possible.
All Emory want is to know what Amelia knows, and he will do everything in his power to find out, even if that means kidnapping the daughter of the man who wants vengeance.
Emory and Amelia have a tenuous start to their problem at best. She wants nothing more than to escape Emory and live the life she was meant to live away from her Dad and Portland. Emory is unwilling to let her go, because she knows something and the threat to her life is very real. When she finally starts to let Emory in and tells him the truth, a deadly secret from Emory's past comes back to finish what was started as kids.
This book is a high stakes, Dark Mafia Romance and is book 1 of the series.... I'm so ready for book 2, because that ending 🥵
Please check the TW before diving in, but trust me you'll love it!
🥀 Dark Mafia Romance 🔫
⚔️ Enemies-to-Lovers 🔪
⛓️ Forced Proximity 🔒
🚫 Forbidden Love 🖤
🌶️ Plenty of Spice 🔥
Amelia has seen something she can't unsee, and now she is being hunted. All she wants is a fresh start from her Dad, but she gets caught up in something much bigger than she even thought possible.
All Emory want is to know what Amelia knows, and he will do everything in his power to find out, even if that means kidnapping the daughter of the man who wants vengeance.
Emory and Amelia have a tenuous start to their problem at best. She wants nothing more than to escape Emory and live the life she was meant to live away from her Dad and Portland. Emory is unwilling to let her go, because she knows something and the threat to her life is very real. When she finally starts to let Emory in and tells him the truth, a deadly secret from Emory's past comes back to finish what was started as kids.
This book is a high stakes, Dark Mafia Romance and is book 1 of the series.... I'm so ready for book 2, because that ending 🥵
Please check the TW before diving in, but trust me you'll love it!
🥀 Dark Mafia Romance 🔫
⚔️ Enemies-to-Lovers 🔪
⛓️ Forced Proximity 🔒
🚫 Forbidden Love 🖤
🌶️ Plenty of Spice 🔥
March 24, 2026
I went into this mostly blind. I obviously knew of the mafia related tendencies which is what drew me in anyways. But I was not expecting a Mafia Chief to have such a soft side. It was great to see that in a character. Not often do you feel the main male characters feelings. Emory is a terrifying man and he can switch faces in an instant if needed. But deep down, the softness he has for Amelia, shows that there is a light for every darkness. Amelia’s sweet personality is one thing, but seeing her not back down from a scary situation made me have more respect for her. Their relationship in the beginning obviously is unconventional, but the way they grow together and understand their true feelings is unique in itself. The main villain of this story and his actions made me scrunch my nose in disgust. He’s the true definition of a monster. I want to see his fate in the hands of Emory. Overall, this had a lot of backstory and depth to it and it worked well. Ending on a very mysterious cliffhanger immediately made me at a loss for words. I have so many questions and I need to know more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2026
I received an ARC for this book and am leaving an honest review.
I went into this not knowing anything and got hooked almost immediately. The writing style pulled me in within the first few sentences and I was locked in the whole time.
This book is very morally gray. Everyone is just trying to survive and making choices that aren’t always right.
Amelia was frustrating to read at first, not gonna lie. But she saw Emory for what he is and what he actually wants, even when no one else did. And that’s what made her powerful.
Emory is very morally gray but in a way that actually makes sense. There’s weight behind his choices and you can tell he carries it. And the banter and tension between him and Amelia were so good, it had me giggling at times.
Overall, this one had me in a chokehold. The writing, the character growth, and the relationship all came together really well for me and made it hard to put down.
I went into this not knowing anything and got hooked almost immediately. The writing style pulled me in within the first few sentences and I was locked in the whole time.
This book is very morally gray. Everyone is just trying to survive and making choices that aren’t always right.
Amelia was frustrating to read at first, not gonna lie. But she saw Emory for what he is and what he actually wants, even when no one else did. And that’s what made her powerful.
Emory is very morally gray but in a way that actually makes sense. There’s weight behind his choices and you can tell he carries it. And the banter and tension between him and Amelia were so good, it had me giggling at times.
Overall, this one had me in a chokehold. The writing, the character growth, and the relationship all came together really well for me and made it hard to put down.
March 25, 2026
What a thrilling ride this was! The dramatic scenes that unfold in this story placed me right in those pages. A few triggers had me wincing throughout but only added to the effect and story building. (Read the trigger warnings). The dynamic between the characters in this story was heartfelt and it most definitely felt like a found family. They sacrificed for each other, crossed boundaries and challenged others in a respectable kind of way. I would literally scream at Emory several times as if he could hear me through the pages when faced with some emotional challenges!
And who doesn't love a fiercely protective MMC towards an endearing and loveable FMC?! I loved Amelia... she was such a strong, courageous and loving woman who knew how to hold her own and never backed down from what she wanted or demanded!
What a captivating book from beginning to end. You had me ensnared! It's a hands down "I recommend you read this" to fellow friends!
And who doesn't love a fiercely protective MMC towards an endearing and loveable FMC?! I loved Amelia... she was such a strong, courageous and loving woman who knew how to hold her own and never backed down from what she wanted or demanded!
What a captivating book from beginning to end. You had me ensnared! It's a hands down "I recommend you read this" to fellow friends!
March 26, 2026
This was such a unique mafia read. I’ve honestly never read one written quite like this before. The story is told through multiple points of view, almost like a mix between conversations and diary entries, which makes it feel incredibly immersive—like you’re right there in the room with them as everything unfolds.
It does start off a bit slow, but it’s absolutely worth sticking with. Once it picks up, you’re fully invested. The way the perspectives bounce between characters keeps you engaged, especially since they’re all in different places and constantly moving. It gives the story a broader, more dynamic feel.
And that ending… I’m not okay 😅. It honestly feels like things are about to get worse before they get better. The adversary is especially chilling—there’s something so calculated and cruel about the way he operates. That cliffhanger has me completely hooked and a little nervous for what’s coming next.
It does start off a bit slow, but it’s absolutely worth sticking with. Once it picks up, you’re fully invested. The way the perspectives bounce between characters keeps you engaged, especially since they’re all in different places and constantly moving. It gives the story a broader, more dynamic feel.
And that ending… I’m not okay 😅. It honestly feels like things are about to get worse before they get better. The adversary is especially chilling—there’s something so calculated and cruel about the way he operates. That cliffhanger has me completely hooked and a little nervous for what’s coming next.
March 22, 2026
"Treachery is blood in the water. Mind your cuts."
Dark secrets within two family worlds of the mafia crush the world Em is looking for with his life when war is declared he's not even sure how it started... or did he? This book had me sucked in from the second I started reading it. You have the best of both worlds (maybe), coming together to destroy anything in the paths of them that get in their way. Both out for revenge, vengence, past lives chapters to be closed, clean slates, and the endings they want... who wins that war ultimately? The hugest twist was utterly shocking and had me on my toes the entire time. The ending is the HUGEST cliffhanger that I cannot wait to get my hands on like NOW & yet this book has yet to be released!! So, now you'll see me impatiently waiting like a kid in a candy store LOL.
Dark secrets within two family worlds of the mafia crush the world Em is looking for with his life when war is declared he's not even sure how it started... or did he? This book had me sucked in from the second I started reading it. You have the best of both worlds (maybe), coming together to destroy anything in the paths of them that get in their way. Both out for revenge, vengence, past lives chapters to be closed, clean slates, and the endings they want... who wins that war ultimately? The hugest twist was utterly shocking and had me on my toes the entire time. The ending is the HUGEST cliffhanger that I cannot wait to get my hands on like NOW & yet this book has yet to be released!! So, now you'll see me impatiently waiting like a kid in a candy store LOL.
March 26, 2026
This book is insane. That's the only way I know how to put it. It's not just following the couple. It is following a mafia war that was opened up long before this generation took hold of the mafia. Amelia is in love with Emory She was not raised in this world. She was raised to be on the right side of the law, but now she has to choose whether being on the right side of law or love is more important. Emory did what he had to do to protect his sister he wanted her to be okay and to grow up and not have to deal with the pain of what their brother put him through so he ran with her when there parents died only to realize that the person that he ran to is basically the head of the mafia. So he steps up. He becomes the son that the mafia leader never had all because he wants to protect her from their Brother Ivan. Ivan is thought to be dead but is he truly read on to find out?
March 18, 2026
First things first....I HIGHLY recommend this book. Absolutely love it!
I gobbled this book up, and it spat me out. Absolutely ravaged my soul.
This is so much more than a romance. This is internal politics, this is complicated family dynamics, this is revenge (on sooooo many levels), and maybe the biggest... this is a story of consequences.
I am floored at our characters and what they go through. The foreshadowing that it's only going to get harder for them has me staring into the abyss because HOW?!
The love story between Amelia and Emory is beautiful. I love them SO much and I hope more than anything that they get their HEA....assuming everyone makes it out.
overall: highly recommend
spice: open door
I gobbled this book up, and it spat me out. Absolutely ravaged my soul.
This is so much more than a romance. This is internal politics, this is complicated family dynamics, this is revenge (on sooooo many levels), and maybe the biggest... this is a story of consequences.
I am floored at our characters and what they go through. The foreshadowing that it's only going to get harder for them has me staring into the abyss because HOW?!
The love story between Amelia and Emory is beautiful. I love them SO much and I hope more than anything that they get their HEA....assuming everyone makes it out.
overall: highly recommend
spice: open door
March 21, 2026
I have been in a bit of a reading slump lately and this book brought me completely out of it! Amelia and Emory's story was not what I expected, but definitely what I needed. A dark mafia romance, but make it dads sworn enemy who saves her from a rival gang who is trying to kill her for what they think she knows. Neither could predict that they were exactly what the other needed. She hates that she is so drawn to him. She is supposed to hate him. He thought she was some docile creature, but is intrigued by her when he finds just as feral as he is. She is his calm sea. His Thunderbolt.
“He got hit with the thunderbolt.” “The thunderbolt?” she laughed and turned the phrase over in her mind. “Wait, like in The Godfather?”
“He got hit with the thunderbolt.” “The thunderbolt?” she laughed and turned the phrase over in her mind. “Wait, like in The Godfather?”
March 22, 2026
The book stated off great, there was fight and tension. It started with a very slow burn, that was felt on both sides. The darkness within the relationship is kinda tame, it mostly comes from the rival team and it is beyond dark. The past and what Amelia had to go through. Although it started off as an amazing slow burn, the second they let go and let themselves open up and be with each other, they were insatiable and it kind of lost the passion. They opened up way before this but didn’t after. It was a great book up until about the halfway mark and then it kind of lost me. It was in no way bad, I just think it wasn’t fully for me.
I appreciate having received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I appreciate having received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2026
Bloodlines by CE Sarrow - 3.5 ⭐️
MMC: Emory Holt
FMC: Amelia Havick
🖤dark/mafia romance
🤍enemies to lovers
🖤forbidden love
🤍morally grey MMC
🖤captor/captive
I was excited to receive an ARC of this debut novel by C.E. Sarrow. Amelia accidentally sees something she isn’t supposed to and it leads to her getting tangled up with the wrong crowd. This turns her world upside down. One second, she’s going to be moving to Arizona and the next she’s a captive with this mafia family. She’s holding onto something they want to know about a rival family… this could change the game. Emory Holt is a powerful and ruthless crime boss. I’m really curious to see where the story goes in book 2 of the series.
MMC: Emory Holt
FMC: Amelia Havick
🖤dark/mafia romance
🤍enemies to lovers
🖤forbidden love
🤍morally grey MMC
🖤captor/captive
I was excited to receive an ARC of this debut novel by C.E. Sarrow. Amelia accidentally sees something she isn’t supposed to and it leads to her getting tangled up with the wrong crowd. This turns her world upside down. One second, she’s going to be moving to Arizona and the next she’s a captive with this mafia family. She’s holding onto something they want to know about a rival family… this could change the game. Emory Holt is a powerful and ruthless crime boss. I’m really curious to see where the story goes in book 2 of the series.
March 23, 2026
Arc review!!!
Where do I start……..this dark mafia romance is definitely the chefs kiss! The tension between the Emory and Amelia I didn’t want it to end but when they finally crack that was the icing for me! With the enemies to lovers was on point! The fact that I yearn to watch this man burn the world for her while trying to overcome his fears and problems. The way she grounds him in the times he needs her the most. The little twist and the emotions!!!! Please when this book is released to the public add this to the tbr and you buy this book cause this story is worth every page turning moment!!! 5⭐️ all the way!
Where do I start……..this dark mafia romance is definitely the chefs kiss! The tension between the Emory and Amelia I didn’t want it to end but when they finally crack that was the icing for me! With the enemies to lovers was on point! The fact that I yearn to watch this man burn the world for her while trying to overcome his fears and problems. The way she grounds him in the times he needs her the most. The little twist and the emotions!!!! Please when this book is released to the public add this to the tbr and you buy this book cause this story is worth every page turning moment!!! 5⭐️ all the way!
March 18, 2026
IM SHOOK! I have NEVER annotated a book in my life and found myself submerged in highlights ! I never thought a mafia romance would have me kicking and screaming like a school girl , meanwhile the book also being completely unhinged! I am already going crazy having to wait for book 2. This is one of the absolute best mafia romance books I have ever read! The writing is absolutely incredible and the plot is chefs kiss! I read this in a day and a half, I could not put it down! If you are a dark romance babe you MUST put this on your TBR!
March 26, 2026
4.75⭐️ ARC
I really enjoyed this one. The mafia wars, the tension, and Emory’s inner battle pulled me in right away. The push and pull between Emory and Amelia was addictive... a little instant obsession on both sides, but it totally worked for their dynamic.
My only small gripe is Amelia’s grief. It hits hard at first, but then it feels like it fades too quickly, like we don’t sit with her emotions long enough before the plot moves on.
Overall, it’s high stakes, moody, possessive, and full of drama - exactly what I want from a dark mafia romance.
I really enjoyed this one. The mafia wars, the tension, and Emory’s inner battle pulled me in right away. The push and pull between Emory and Amelia was addictive... a little instant obsession on both sides, but it totally worked for their dynamic.
My only small gripe is Amelia’s grief. It hits hard at first, but then it feels like it fades too quickly, like we don’t sit with her emotions long enough before the plot moves on.
Overall, it’s high stakes, moody, possessive, and full of drama - exactly what I want from a dark mafia romance.
March 26, 2026
What a Rollercoaster of a story!!
Emory and Amelia have so much stacked against them that Im not sure how they get out of this without deeper scars.
This story opens up multiple storylines and plot twists that you don't see coming. It makes way for another couple and a potential kink in Emory and Amelia's HEA.
With the way this story ends, it leaves it open for the rest of the war and for the hope that everyone makes it out alive and together.
I'm excited to see where this story goes!
Emory and Amelia have so much stacked against them that Im not sure how they get out of this without deeper scars.
This story opens up multiple storylines and plot twists that you don't see coming. It makes way for another couple and a potential kink in Emory and Amelia's HEA.
With the way this story ends, it leaves it open for the rest of the war and for the hope that everyone makes it out alive and together.
I'm excited to see where this story goes!
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