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Caruso Cosa Nostra #1
Brutal Obsession
A brand new mafia series from a USA Today bestselling author!
Cover and blurb to come...
Cover and blurb to come...
298 pages, Hardcover
Published March 25, 2026
About the author
Shandi Boyes
99 books2,240 followersShandi Boyes is a USA Today Bestselling Author who was an avid reader for many years before she discovered the love of writing in February 2016. Her first penned novel 'Perception of Life’ is a new adult rockstar romance that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat until the very last word.
In September 2016, her focus shifted to hot alpha men in steamy contemporary reads that sizzle off the pages. Shandi’s novel ‘Enigma of Life’ is an award-winning story on an FBI agent and the subject she was assigned to investigate. Her men are swoon-worthy, devoted, and alpha; and her heroines are strong-willed, determined, and loveable. You should start her stories first thing in the morning, or you may not sleep.
You will laugh and you will cry, but Shandi's characters will stay with you for a lifetime!
Join my newsletter: subscribepage.com/authorshandi
SERIES ORDER:
Perception of Life (Noah and Emily #1)
Reality of Life (conclusion of Noah's story #2)
Fight of Life (Jacob's story - standalone #3)
Player of Life (Nick & Jenny - standalone #4)
Beats of Life (Slater's story - standalone #5)
Enigma:
Enigma of Life (Isaac #1) - ** FREE **
Unraveling an Enigma (Isaac #2)
Enigma: The Mystery Unmasked (Isaac #3)
Enigma: The Final Chapter (conclusion of Isaac's story #4)
Beneath the Secrets (Hugo #1)
Beneath the Sheets (Hugo #2)
Spy Thy Neighbor (Hunter's Story)
The Opposite Effect
I Married a Mob Boss
Second Shot
Bound:
Chains
Links
Bound
Restrained
Russian Mob Chronicles:
Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance
Nikolai: Taking Back What's Mine
Nikolai: What's Left of Me
You will laugh and you will cry, but my characters will stay with you forever!
I love writing and reading. They are both my passion. My genre is generally set to new adult and contemporary, with a few twists thrown in.
Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Author-Shand...
Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01D8C13WU
Enjoy reading!
In September 2016, her focus shifted to hot alpha men in steamy contemporary reads that sizzle off the pages. Shandi’s novel ‘Enigma of Life’ is an award-winning story on an FBI agent and the subject she was assigned to investigate. Her men are swoon-worthy, devoted, and alpha; and her heroines are strong-willed, determined, and loveable. You should start her stories first thing in the morning, or you may not sleep.
You will laugh and you will cry, but Shandi's characters will stay with you for a lifetime!
Join my newsletter: subscribepage.com/authorshandi
SERIES ORDER:
Perception of Life (Noah and Emily #1)
Reality of Life (conclusion of Noah's story #2)
Fight of Life (Jacob's story - standalone #3)
Player of Life (Nick & Jenny - standalone #4)
Beats of Life (Slater's story - standalone #5)
Enigma:
Enigma of Life (Isaac #1) - ** FREE **
Unraveling an Enigma (Isaac #2)
Enigma: The Mystery Unmasked (Isaac #3)
Enigma: The Final Chapter (conclusion of Isaac's story #4)
Beneath the Secrets (Hugo #1)
Beneath the Sheets (Hugo #2)
Spy Thy Neighbor (Hunter's Story)
The Opposite Effect
I Married a Mob Boss
Second Shot
Bound:
Chains
Links
Bound
Restrained
Russian Mob Chronicles:
Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance
Nikolai: Taking Back What's Mine
Nikolai: What's Left of Me
You will laugh and you will cry, but my characters will stay with you forever!
I love writing and reading. They are both my passion. My genre is generally set to new adult and contemporary, with a few twists thrown in.
Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Author-Shand...
Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01D8C13WU
Enjoy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
April 2, 2026
This was like a soap opera. (Possible spoilers ahead) The Pringles can took me out. I just could not stop thinking/laughing about it. I’ll give this 2.5 stars for H’s complete devotion to h during spicy scenes. He loved his “thick” princess.
h moves with her sick mom to get her free healthcare. The free healthcare only takes them so far, now mom needs more care and that costs $$. h hears about this place to sell her eggs (not chicken eggs.🤪)
H is the leader of the mafia in that town. H saves h one day when she’s almost ran over. INSTA/everything between the two. He’s in a rush, but plans to come back since he has her name.
One month later and H has been looking for h everywhere. h’s life has went to complete 💩 She’s been giving her eggs to the fertility clinic (or letting them implant them. Sorry, I got confused about the whole plan here) She arrives one day, and sees H standing there with another woman, Valeria. Valeria goes into the clinic. Uh oh. H does not see h, yet.
The two women meet when they realize their names are similar to each other.
We know from H’s POV- Valeria is his fiancee. It’s an arranged marriage. Valeria is being implanted with H’s sperm to have their baby. Naturally, Valeria wanted to do it the natural way, but H didn’t want to. 🤪🤪 (but at one point, it’s alluded to that Valeria crawled into his bed. It doesn’t say if he shagged her)
When h leaves the clinic later, H sees her and chases her down. H boinks her right up against the wall. Then he takes her to his penthouse for a night of “full worship”
h’s POV about H’s dixk
“He’s huge. The girth and length of a Pringles can may be a slight exaggeration, but if he wants to do that trick where he stuffs his penis inside before offering his partner a chip, he might want to lube up first.”
————
A Pringles can? 😱😱😱
Really?
Well, she does ask him a few times who the OW was he was with at the clinic. He was totally evasive and that’s not a red flag at all. :/s
h continues to shag Mr Pringles can ALL. NIGHT. LONG
(The spice was spicing. H was devoted to pleasing h. (DEVOTED) No condoms.
H wakes up the next morning and finds out Valeria has already told everybody about the engagement. He goes to h because he wants to “explain” everything before she finds out but h has already left. On the table, he sees where the news article about his engagement is front page news. (We know from his POV, he already decided h was HIS and he planned to end things with Valeria)
Ofc, h feels stupid and betrayed. (I did roll my eyes because she had suspected Valeria was somebody to H)
Anyway, this is where the plot starts to explode with everything thrown at the wall- let’s see what sticks. 🫣
h gets a call from the fertility clinic that there was a problem. When she arrives, H and Valeria are also there. There was a major mix up and now h was implanted with Valeria and H’s eggs/baby What. A. Mess
H immediately moves h into his compound. Valeria lives there, too. The OW drama is OTT. Valeria is a major bully and h just takes it. She won’t tell H that Valeria is abusing her. h will keep trying to escape, H will chase her down, then they have lots and lots of smex.
One day Valeria takes the abuse too far and leaves major marks on h. H loses his mind and drags Valeria into h’s room by the hair of her head. Valeria’s face is all busted up. (Yikes) h tries to protect Valeria by explaining that Valeria is the baby’s mama. H has Valeria removed from his house.
For the finale, h’s birthday party. omg h invites Valeria 🥴 Valeria’s dad also shows up. H’s dad is there and we realize that H’s dad knows h’s mom. h eats cake, and it’s poisoned. h and the baby almost ☠️. The big twist comes. Valeria’s dad is the one who poisoned h. We find out that Valeria never gave her eggs- so the baby is 100% h’s baby. Valeria was abused by her dad. Valeria’s dad is ALSO h’s dad.
H ☠️ Valeria’s dad. (I felt like I was watching a tennis match with all the back and forth releases of information)
The epilogue was 7 months later and h was still pregnant. I guess she is slowly building a relationship with Valeria. Wut?
HEA with H.
I’m still so confused on how h’s baby survived being poisoned? h was bleeding severely out of every hole when she was rushed to the hospital. h was almost dead. They had to do 2 major surgeries on her.
I get that Valeria ended up being her sister, but nobody with any sense would want to hang around this woman- sister or not.
I seriously can’t quit laughing about the Pringles Can. Just imagine how this man walks around wearing clothes. There would be NO WAY you don’t see it. 😂😂😂😂😂😂
What a wild and bizarre ride. Unfortunately, I’m going to get off here. I have no desire to read the others in this series. Wait……maybe I should see if they’re bigger than a Pringles Can. 😜
h moves with her sick mom to get her free healthcare. The free healthcare only takes them so far, now mom needs more care and that costs $$. h hears about this place to sell her eggs (not chicken eggs.🤪)
H is the leader of the mafia in that town. H saves h one day when she’s almost ran over. INSTA/everything between the two. He’s in a rush, but plans to come back since he has her name.
One month later and H has been looking for h everywhere. h’s life has went to complete 💩 She’s been giving her eggs to the fertility clinic (or letting them implant them. Sorry, I got confused about the whole plan here) She arrives one day, and sees H standing there with another woman, Valeria. Valeria goes into the clinic. Uh oh. H does not see h, yet.
The two women meet when they realize their names are similar to each other.
We know from H’s POV- Valeria is his fiancee. It’s an arranged marriage. Valeria is being implanted with H’s sperm to have their baby. Naturally, Valeria wanted to do it the natural way, but H didn’t want to. 🤪🤪 (but at one point, it’s alluded to that Valeria crawled into his bed. It doesn’t say if he shagged her)
When h leaves the clinic later, H sees her and chases her down. H boinks her right up against the wall. Then he takes her to his penthouse for a night of “full worship”
h’s POV about H’s dixk
“He’s huge. The girth and length of a Pringles can may be a slight exaggeration, but if he wants to do that trick where he stuffs his penis inside before offering his partner a chip, he might want to lube up first.”
————
A Pringles can? 😱😱😱
Really?
Well, she does ask him a few times who the OW was he was with at the clinic. He was totally evasive and that’s not a red flag at all. :/s
h continues to shag Mr Pringles can ALL. NIGHT. LONG
(The spice was spicing. H was devoted to pleasing h. (DEVOTED) No condoms.
H wakes up the next morning and finds out Valeria has already told everybody about the engagement. He goes to h because he wants to “explain” everything before she finds out but h has already left. On the table, he sees where the news article about his engagement is front page news. (We know from his POV, he already decided h was HIS and he planned to end things with Valeria)
Ofc, h feels stupid and betrayed. (I did roll my eyes because she had suspected Valeria was somebody to H)
Anyway, this is where the plot starts to explode with everything thrown at the wall- let’s see what sticks. 🫣
h gets a call from the fertility clinic that there was a problem. When she arrives, H and Valeria are also there. There was a major mix up and now h was implanted with Valeria and H’s eggs/baby What. A. Mess
H immediately moves h into his compound. Valeria lives there, too. The OW drama is OTT. Valeria is a major bully and h just takes it. She won’t tell H that Valeria is abusing her. h will keep trying to escape, H will chase her down, then they have lots and lots of smex.
One day Valeria takes the abuse too far and leaves major marks on h. H loses his mind and drags Valeria into h’s room by the hair of her head. Valeria’s face is all busted up. (Yikes) h tries to protect Valeria by explaining that Valeria is the baby’s mama. H has Valeria removed from his house.
For the finale, h’s birthday party. omg h invites Valeria 🥴 Valeria’s dad also shows up. H’s dad is there and we realize that H’s dad knows h’s mom. h eats cake, and it’s poisoned. h and the baby almost ☠️. The big twist comes. Valeria’s dad is the one who poisoned h. We find out that Valeria never gave her eggs- so the baby is 100% h’s baby. Valeria was abused by her dad. Valeria’s dad is ALSO h’s dad.
H ☠️ Valeria’s dad. (I felt like I was watching a tennis match with all the back and forth releases of information)
The epilogue was 7 months later and h was still pregnant. I guess she is slowly building a relationship with Valeria. Wut?
HEA with H.
I’m still so confused on how h’s baby survived being poisoned? h was bleeding severely out of every hole when she was rushed to the hospital. h was almost dead. They had to do 2 major surgeries on her.
I get that Valeria ended up being her sister, but nobody with any sense would want to hang around this woman- sister or not.
I seriously can’t quit laughing about the Pringles Can. Just imagine how this man walks around wearing clothes. There would be NO WAY you don’t see it. 😂😂😂😂😂😂
What a wild and bizarre ride. Unfortunately, I’m going to get off here. I have no desire to read the others in this series. Wait……maybe I should see if they’re bigger than a Pringles Can. 😜
June 3, 2026
This was an intense and thoroughly enjoyable read. I loved both main characters and found myself invested in their journey from start to finish. Shandi’s writing is engaging, with vivid descriptions that make the story easy to immerse yourself in. The book delivered plenty of spice, but my favourite moments were the chapters near the end, which were especially compelling. The ending was satisfying and wrapped up the story beautifully. Overall, this was a fun and entertaining read that I would happily recommend.
April 24, 2026
I Give this Book a 2/5 Star Rating.
HEA(?): Apparently, yes.
Relationship Type: MF
Romance: 2/5
Heat: Lots of heat as is primarily all it is, but is was underwhelming so 2/5
Pacing: Brisk and Blurry(?), it seemed like the book did speedup to the point that nothing was focused on correctly.
Drama & Suspense: the Heat may not have been FTB>Fade to Black but it seemed the drama and suspense kinda was instead, also it was all mashed together but it seemed confusing and not well focused on. It also seemed dumped into a pile at the end. 2.5/5
There was so much heat in this book that it blurred any plot, yet the heat was kinda lackluster. I wasn’t a big fan of this one, the book felt so short if you took out the heat scenes this could be nearly only around 100/150 pages long. The synopsis was more intriguing than the book itself.
HEA(?): Apparently, yes.
Relationship Type: MF
Romance: 2/5
Heat: Lots of heat as is primarily all it is, but is was underwhelming so 2/5
Pacing: Brisk and Blurry(?), it seemed like the book did speedup to the point that nothing was focused on correctly.
Drama & Suspense: the Heat may not have been FTB>Fade to Black but it seemed the drama and suspense kinda was instead, also it was all mashed together but it seemed confusing and not well focused on. It also seemed dumped into a pile at the end. 2.5/5
There was so much heat in this book that it blurred any plot, yet the heat was kinda lackluster. I wasn’t a big fan of this one, the book felt so short if you took out the heat scenes this could be nearly only around 100/150 pages long. The synopsis was more intriguing than the book itself.
April 19, 2026
This book was so annoying. Valentina and Valeria run into each other at the fertility clinic and instead of taking Valentina's eggs, they impregnate her with Gio's sperm, which was meant for Valeria. What in the All My Children day time soap opera nonsense is this!? It only adds to the unsatisfactory story like when we find out that the two women are sisters and share the same father. Shocker, didn't see that coming at all (insert eye roll!). I believe this is the book where the MMC kept saying something along the lines of "I smell so good inside you". It was weird and used so many times it got annoying. The whole storyline was convoluted and I so badly wanted to DNF the book but BookTok promised good stuff - it lied!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC
Brutal Obsession
I’m always interested in Mafia based stories as I’m Italian 🇮🇹
I especially love it when women are portrayed as ‘Real Women’ ones who have curves and aren’t stick thin. Men love this having a woman they can hang onto and let’s just say Love😉 the heck out of!!!!
I can imagine the scenery in Italy as Shandi’s description is vivid. I loved that.
When a head Mafia figure saves a Beautiful Voluptuous Woman named Valentina he can’t get her off his mind. She too can’t stop thinking of him but she also needs to help her mum. Valentina’s mum is very sick and she’s doing everything in her power to help her. They even returned from the States for the free Healthcare in Italy. But their Healthcare only goes so far!
So she spots him at a clinic leaving a car with a Beautiful Woman. A woman more suited to him. She’s beautiful has the perfect body for someone as Gorgeous as him. He’s so Handsome he deserves to be on magazine covers. Her and her silly fantasies of him liking anyone like her!!!!
She dodges him. Finding inside the woman that he came with while he waits outside. The women speak 🗣️ (that’s all I’m saying about that 😉)
He spots her leaving and gives chase. But she makes it to the train, and as he arrives the doors close.
This is where everything changes. He is able to make it to her stop and is waiting for her. She is absolutely stunned! He guides her and as if in a trance she goes with him.
The following morning deception occurs and that sends Valentina running again.
She leaves and he gives chase. He’s always chasing Valentina.
Valentina is his and nothing will stop him having her!!
There’s a scene that happens in a Lemon 🍋 Grove. 🍋🔥🥵
Let’s just say that the following morning, I walked into my kitchen and saw 🍋 🍋 in a bowl and had to turn around and walk out again, because I was instantly bombarded with that scene 🥵
Valentina’s at the family compound but the other woman isn’t having any of this. She’s deceptive and cunning. Giovanni’s father isn’t well either and he doesn’t want to cause him further stress. This is where the action, drama, deception and the past collide. It will keep you on edge. Shandi has the ability to keep you engaged from the beginning and right up to the very end!
I couldn’t put this book down!!
I’m renovating and exhausted but still managed to finish this in 4 nights. If I wasn’t so tired from renovating I’d probably would have finished way sooner.
Shandi delivers another stellar story!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Heat level 🔥 10/10 🥵
I can’t wait for the second in this series.
Don’t wait get this book. You will love it 🥰
Brutal Obsession
I’m always interested in Mafia based stories as I’m Italian 🇮🇹
I especially love it when women are portrayed as ‘Real Women’ ones who have curves and aren’t stick thin. Men love this having a woman they can hang onto and let’s just say Love😉 the heck out of!!!!
I can imagine the scenery in Italy as Shandi’s description is vivid. I loved that.
When a head Mafia figure saves a Beautiful Voluptuous Woman named Valentina he can’t get her off his mind. She too can’t stop thinking of him but she also needs to help her mum. Valentina’s mum is very sick and she’s doing everything in her power to help her. They even returned from the States for the free Healthcare in Italy. But their Healthcare only goes so far!
So she spots him at a clinic leaving a car with a Beautiful Woman. A woman more suited to him. She’s beautiful has the perfect body for someone as Gorgeous as him. He’s so Handsome he deserves to be on magazine covers. Her and her silly fantasies of him liking anyone like her!!!!
She dodges him. Finding inside the woman that he came with while he waits outside. The women speak 🗣️ (that’s all I’m saying about that 😉)
He spots her leaving and gives chase. But she makes it to the train, and as he arrives the doors close.
This is where everything changes. He is able to make it to her stop and is waiting for her. She is absolutely stunned! He guides her and as if in a trance she goes with him.
The following morning deception occurs and that sends Valentina running again.
She leaves and he gives chase. He’s always chasing Valentina.
Valentina is his and nothing will stop him having her!!
There’s a scene that happens in a Lemon 🍋 Grove. 🍋🔥🥵
Let’s just say that the following morning, I walked into my kitchen and saw 🍋 🍋 in a bowl and had to turn around and walk out again, because I was instantly bombarded with that scene 🥵
Valentina’s at the family compound but the other woman isn’t having any of this. She’s deceptive and cunning. Giovanni’s father isn’t well either and he doesn’t want to cause him further stress. This is where the action, drama, deception and the past collide. It will keep you on edge. Shandi has the ability to keep you engaged from the beginning and right up to the very end!
I couldn’t put this book down!!
I’m renovating and exhausted but still managed to finish this in 4 nights. If I wasn’t so tired from renovating I’d probably would have finished way sooner.
Shandi delivers another stellar story!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Heat level 🔥 10/10 🥵
I can’t wait for the second in this series.
Don’t wait get this book. You will love it 🥰
April 1, 2026
3 Chili Peppers Spice
3 Star Read
If you've read enough Mafia Romance books then you have read a version of this story before and again someway I like the criminal more than the good girl FMC in the book .
Boy meets girl and falls head over hills while leaving out the fact he has a fiance with a arranged marriage . Broke girls goes to IVF clinic but there is a mixup and the Heir baby is inserted in her womb instead of retrieving the eggs she came to sell .
Once the error is discovered , she is forced to go stay at his family compound while they screw like rabbits , as she keeps talking about not being a " homewrecker " while being bent over with by the man she swears she doesn't want .Fiance threatens her, bruises her arm but she just stands there like an idiot and gets pushed around .
What pisses me off in these books , they push the good girl / good person narrative in these books to the point of the the Good persons detriment . After reading this book I don't get all of the hype . I honestly don't feel compelled to read the other interconnected books in this series .
Even though you could feel the hate radiating from his fiance , she still feels the need to go behind their mans back and invite the woman who hates her to a dinner . This is even after the baby father bans her from the compound .
The climax happens and all I could think was Valentina was a bird brain stupid girl that I did not feel sorry for . At some point self preservation needs to kick in.
She has all these morals and rules while getting dick every few pages but whatever .
I wont spoil the book for others but picture all the dumb ass things other FMC do in other books and she is on brand for simpleton awards .
3 Star Read
If you've read enough Mafia Romance books then you have read a version of this story before and again someway I like the criminal more than the good girl FMC in the book .
Boy meets girl and falls head over hills while leaving out the fact he has a fiance with a arranged marriage . Broke girls goes to IVF clinic but there is a mixup and the Heir baby is inserted in her womb instead of retrieving the eggs she came to sell .
Once the error is discovered , she is forced to go stay at his family compound while they screw like rabbits , as she keeps talking about not being a " homewrecker " while being bent over with by the man she swears she doesn't want .Fiance threatens her, bruises her arm but she just stands there like an idiot and gets pushed around .
What pisses me off in these books , they push the good girl / good person narrative in these books to the point of the the Good persons detriment . After reading this book I don't get all of the hype . I honestly don't feel compelled to read the other interconnected books in this series .
Even though you could feel the hate radiating from his fiance , she still feels the need to go behind their mans back and invite the woman who hates her to a dinner . This is even after the baby father bans her from the compound .
The climax happens and all I could think was Valentina was a bird brain stupid girl that I did not feel sorry for . At some point self preservation needs to kick in.
She has all these morals and rules while getting dick every few pages but whatever .
I wont spoil the book for others but picture all the dumb ass things other FMC do in other books and she is on brand for simpleton awards .
June 2, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 5 stars, no notes.
I went into this book expecting a good mafia romance.
What I got was an all-consuming reading experience that had me so hooked I completely forgot about my real life responsibilities.
In fact, I started this book by asking whether it would suit my reading tastes and planned to check back in at 20-30%.
I never came back.
I absolutely inhaled this book.
From the very beginning, Brutal Obsession delivered everything I love in a mafia romance: high stakes, intense chemistry, family loyalty, danger, obsession, and a morally gray MMC who would burn the world down for his woman.
And then there was Giovanni Caruso.
I'm officially ruined.
I've read hockey players, stalkers, mafia bosses, morally gray men, and every variation of "touch her and die" romance heroes imaginable, but Giovanni has somehow climbed straight to the top of my book boyfriend list.
The man is obsessed.
Not the over-the-top, eye-roll-inducing kind of obsessed. The terrifyingly intentional kind. The kind that quietly rearranges the world around him to protect the woman he loves.
Every scene with him had me completely invested.
What made this story work so well, though, was Valentina.
She wasn't reckless for the sake of creating drama. She wasn't making ridiculous decisions just to move the plot forward. Every desperate choice she made came from a place of genuine love, fear, sacrifice, and determination. Her devotion to her mother broke my heart repeatedly, and it made me root for her from the very first chapter.
The chemistry between Giovanni and Valentina was incredible, but the emotional stakes are what elevated this book for me. I wasn't just invested in the romance. I genuinely cared about what happened to these characters.
The pacing was perfect. No dragging. No endless misunderstandings. No waiting 500 pages for the plot to move. Every chapter gave me a reason to keep reading, and before I knew it, I was at the end wondering where the time had gone.
Now for the negatives.
Valeria and her father.
That's it.
That's the section.
Every time they appeared, my blood pressure increased. I have never wanted fictional characters to make one sensible decision so badly in my life.
Overall, this book had everything I look for in a romance:
✔ Obsessive MMC
✔ Strong FMC
✔ Family loyalty
✔ Emotional depth
✔ High stakes
✔ Protective hero
✔ Incredible chemistry
✔ Fast pacing
This was one of those rare books where I finished reading and immediately knew my rating.
Five stars.
No notes.
And unless a miracle happens, I genuinely don't see another book boyfriend dethroning Giovanni Caruso anytime soon.
I came for the mafia romance. I left wondering if Giovanni Caruso has permanently ruined all future MMCs for me.
I went into this book expecting a good mafia romance.
What I got was an all-consuming reading experience that had me so hooked I completely forgot about my real life responsibilities.
In fact, I started this book by asking whether it would suit my reading tastes and planned to check back in at 20-30%.
I never came back.
I absolutely inhaled this book.
From the very beginning, Brutal Obsession delivered everything I love in a mafia romance: high stakes, intense chemistry, family loyalty, danger, obsession, and a morally gray MMC who would burn the world down for his woman.
And then there was Giovanni Caruso.
I'm officially ruined.
I've read hockey players, stalkers, mafia bosses, morally gray men, and every variation of "touch her and die" romance heroes imaginable, but Giovanni has somehow climbed straight to the top of my book boyfriend list.
The man is obsessed.
Not the over-the-top, eye-roll-inducing kind of obsessed. The terrifyingly intentional kind. The kind that quietly rearranges the world around him to protect the woman he loves.
Every scene with him had me completely invested.
What made this story work so well, though, was Valentina.
She wasn't reckless for the sake of creating drama. She wasn't making ridiculous decisions just to move the plot forward. Every desperate choice she made came from a place of genuine love, fear, sacrifice, and determination. Her devotion to her mother broke my heart repeatedly, and it made me root for her from the very first chapter.
The chemistry between Giovanni and Valentina was incredible, but the emotional stakes are what elevated this book for me. I wasn't just invested in the romance. I genuinely cared about what happened to these characters.
The pacing was perfect. No dragging. No endless misunderstandings. No waiting 500 pages for the plot to move. Every chapter gave me a reason to keep reading, and before I knew it, I was at the end wondering where the time had gone.
Now for the negatives.
Valeria and her father.
That's it.
That's the section.
Every time they appeared, my blood pressure increased. I have never wanted fictional characters to make one sensible decision so badly in my life.
Overall, this book had everything I look for in a romance:
✔ Obsessive MMC
✔ Strong FMC
✔ Family loyalty
✔ Emotional depth
✔ High stakes
✔ Protective hero
✔ Incredible chemistry
✔ Fast pacing
This was one of those rare books where I finished reading and immediately knew my rating.
Five stars.
No notes.
And unless a miracle happens, I genuinely don't see another book boyfriend dethroning Giovanni Caruso anytime soon.
I came for the mafia romance. I left wondering if Giovanni Caruso has permanently ruined all future MMCs for me.
July 20, 2026
I picked up Brutal Obsession because BookTok made it sound like a must-read dark romance, but unfortunately this one was a miss for me.
The biggest issue was how rushed everything felt. The plot throws one over-the-top twist after another at the reader, but none of it is given enough time or development to feel believable or impactful. Instead of building tension and suspense, the story felt like a string of dramatic reveals designed purely for shock value. By the time the twists started piling up, I was mostly rolling my eyes rather than sitting on the edge of my seat.
The romance suffered from the same problem. The relationship develops so quickly that it never felt earned, and I struggled to connect with either character. There was very little emotional buildup, making it difficult to invest in their journey as a couple.
Even the spicy scenes didn't save it for me. Rather than adding chemistry or depth to the relationship, they often felt awkward and repetitive. Certain phrases were used over and over again to the point where they became distracting instead of sexy.
Honestly, if this had been a longer book, it would have been a DNF for me. The only reason I finished was because it was such a quick read. I kept waiting for the story to come together or for all the chaos to pay off in a satisfying way, but it never really happened.
If you're someone who enjoys extremely dramatic, soap-opera-style twists and don't mind suspending disbelief, you may have a better experience than I did. But for me, this was a case of BookTok seriously overselling a book that never delivered on the hype. By the end, I was more relieved to be finished than eager to recommend it.
The biggest issue was how rushed everything felt. The plot throws one over-the-top twist after another at the reader, but none of it is given enough time or development to feel believable or impactful. Instead of building tension and suspense, the story felt like a string of dramatic reveals designed purely for shock value. By the time the twists started piling up, I was mostly rolling my eyes rather than sitting on the edge of my seat.
The romance suffered from the same problem. The relationship develops so quickly that it never felt earned, and I struggled to connect with either character. There was very little emotional buildup, making it difficult to invest in their journey as a couple.
Even the spicy scenes didn't save it for me. Rather than adding chemistry or depth to the relationship, they often felt awkward and repetitive. Certain phrases were used over and over again to the point where they became distracting instead of sexy.
Honestly, if this had been a longer book, it would have been a DNF for me. The only reason I finished was because it was such a quick read. I kept waiting for the story to come together or for all the chaos to pay off in a satisfying way, but it never really happened.
If you're someone who enjoys extremely dramatic, soap-opera-style twists and don't mind suspending disbelief, you may have a better experience than I did. But for me, this was a case of BookTok seriously overselling a book that never delivered on the hype. By the end, I was more relieved to be finished than eager to recommend it.
Review of advance copy
I’ll try to write this without spoilers — in this book, Giovanni, the eldest son of the Caruso family, takes the spotlight. And what a charming mafia man Shandi has created once again. Possessive, jealous, instantly in love — pure obsession.
Valentina, on the other hand, is a young woman with a completely selfless heart, determined to help the people she loves in any way she can. Yet this sweet young woman knows her worth and isn’t afraid to stand her ground. When these two meet, things heat up hotter than any stove and the sparks fly.
The story pulled me in from the very first page and refused to let go. I ended up reading the entire book in a single day because every chapter pushed me forward with its fast‑paced twists and addictive tension. Shandi balances action, emotion, and character chemistry so well that it’s impossible not to get swept up in it all. And the heat level? Absolutely scorching. The chemistry between the characters is intense, electric, and written with such vivid energy that you feel every spark. It’s the kind of book that makes you pause just to catch your breath — and then dive right back in because you need more 🥵
I love age‑gap romances (10 years), and it’s no secret that mafia romances always draw me in. This one also features a curvy FMC, which I really enjoyed. Shandi’s writing style charmed me already in Enigma, and that hasn’t changed. I can’t wait for the other brothers’ books.
I’m honored and privileged to be an ARC reader, and this is my honest opinion.
Valentina, on the other hand, is a young woman with a completely selfless heart, determined to help the people she loves in any way she can. Yet this sweet young woman knows her worth and isn’t afraid to stand her ground. When these two meet, things heat up hotter than any stove and the sparks fly.
The story pulled me in from the very first page and refused to let go. I ended up reading the entire book in a single day because every chapter pushed me forward with its fast‑paced twists and addictive tension. Shandi balances action, emotion, and character chemistry so well that it’s impossible not to get swept up in it all. And the heat level? Absolutely scorching. The chemistry between the characters is intense, electric, and written with such vivid energy that you feel every spark. It’s the kind of book that makes you pause just to catch your breath — and then dive right back in because you need more 🥵
I love age‑gap romances (10 years), and it’s no secret that mafia romances always draw me in. This one also features a curvy FMC, which I really enjoyed. Shandi’s writing style charmed me already in Enigma, and that hasn’t changed. I can’t wait for the other brothers’ books.
I’m honored and privileged to be an ARC reader, and this is my honest opinion.
May 31, 2026
Brutal Obsession is the first story in the Caruso Cosa Nostra series. I absolutely loved this story. It was so well-written and suspenseful.
Valentina has relocated to Italy with her mother so that she can find better healthcare. Her mother is dying of cancer and she wants to find another solution. The healthcare they find is not enough for what they need so Valentina has to find another way. She finds out that a clinic will pay for her eggs so she rushes to get to the hospital. She is trying to find her way around the city when she almost runs into traffic. She is saved by a handsome stranger. Giovanni became entranced by her beauty and when she leaves he tries to find her. She doesn't get his name but has no idea he is the head of his family and is in the mafia.
Giovanni is determined to find the woman he saved from the crash. Valentina sees him at the clinic again but this time he is with a beautiful woman. Giovanni sees Valentina and rushes to find her but she gets away. She gets to the train and then he gets on also. He takes her to his apartment. The next day Valentina runs again and he chases her again.
I loved how strong Valentina was for her mother. She was so determined and such a good person. I loved how Giovanni became obsessed with her from their first encounter. He was determined to find her. They were so good together. I loved the twists and turns in this story and look forward to the next one from this very talented author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Valentina has relocated to Italy with her mother so that she can find better healthcare. Her mother is dying of cancer and she wants to find another solution. The healthcare they find is not enough for what they need so Valentina has to find another way. She finds out that a clinic will pay for her eggs so she rushes to get to the hospital. She is trying to find her way around the city when she almost runs into traffic. She is saved by a handsome stranger. Giovanni became entranced by her beauty and when she leaves he tries to find her. She doesn't get his name but has no idea he is the head of his family and is in the mafia.
Giovanni is determined to find the woman he saved from the crash. Valentina sees him at the clinic again but this time he is with a beautiful woman. Giovanni sees Valentina and rushes to find her but she gets away. She gets to the train and then he gets on also. He takes her to his apartment. The next day Valentina runs again and he chases her again.
I loved how strong Valentina was for her mother. She was so determined and such a good person. I loved how Giovanni became obsessed with her from their first encounter. He was determined to find her. They were so good together. I loved the twists and turns in this story and look forward to the next one from this very talented author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of Brutal Obsession. I’ve read one of this author’s previous series and loved it, so I was really excited to dive into this new one. I’m always a sucker for an age-gap romance, and when you add in a curvy FMC, it’s basically an automatic yes for me.
I have to say, this book pulled me in straight away, and I finished it within a day. I had a hard time putting it down. The story has several plot twists, but I absolutely loved that they weren’t all saved for the very end. The pacing kept things interesting, and every time I thought I had something figured out, the story shifted in a fun way.
And let’s be honest… the spice in this one definitely delivers. If you like a romance that balances a solid storyline with some very spicy moments, this one hits that sweet spot.
While this can absolutely be read as a standalone, there are a few references to characters from the author’s previous books. I always love when authors do this because it makes their worlds feel connected and gives longtime readers that cool moment of recognition.
Overall, this was a fast, fun, and spicy read. I’m not sure if this is the start of a new series, but if it is, I will definitely be reading the next one! Thank you to the author and ARC team for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I have to say, this book pulled me in straight away, and I finished it within a day. I had a hard time putting it down. The story has several plot twists, but I absolutely loved that they weren’t all saved for the very end. The pacing kept things interesting, and every time I thought I had something figured out, the story shifted in a fun way.
And let’s be honest… the spice in this one definitely delivers. If you like a romance that balances a solid storyline with some very spicy moments, this one hits that sweet spot.
While this can absolutely be read as a standalone, there are a few references to characters from the author’s previous books. I always love when authors do this because it makes their worlds feel connected and gives longtime readers that cool moment of recognition.
Overall, this was a fast, fun, and spicy read. I’m not sure if this is the start of a new series, but if it is, I will definitely be reading the next one! Thank you to the author and ARC team for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Story ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Valentina Raimondi moves to Carlisle, Sicily, from the US with the objective to receive free medical care for her mother's cancer and maybe find a cure. She is rushing to the hospital and gets lost on Carlisle's streets because she doesn't know the area and her map is completely useless. Because of her negligence, she is in danger of being crushed by a truck, but she doesn't know that the most dangerous man from Carlisle saved her. At that moment, Giovanni became captivated by Valentina's curvaceous body and her beauty. He searches for her for a month before meeting her in an unexpected location. Giovanni started to chase her from that very moment. Is Valentina going to let Giovanni capture her?
Valentina is a sweet, gentle, and strong woman. She would do whatever it takes to protect her mum from this awful diagnosis.
Giovanni is a ruthless, caring, obsessed, and possessive man who won't give up until he gets Valentina and claim her as his own.
Even if some of the events were emotionally charged, I enjoyed how Shandi described every single one of them. Giovanni's possessiveness and devotion to Valentina were captivating and also how he does everything to make her happy, satisfied and comfortable.
The whole narrative is incredible. I cannot wait for Dante's story in the next book of the series.
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Valentina Raimondi moves to Carlisle, Sicily, from the US with the objective to receive free medical care for her mother's cancer and maybe find a cure. She is rushing to the hospital and gets lost on Carlisle's streets because she doesn't know the area and her map is completely useless. Because of her negligence, she is in danger of being crushed by a truck, but she doesn't know that the most dangerous man from Carlisle saved her. At that moment, Giovanni became captivated by Valentina's curvaceous body and her beauty. He searches for her for a month before meeting her in an unexpected location. Giovanni started to chase her from that very moment. Is Valentina going to let Giovanni capture her?
Valentina is a sweet, gentle, and strong woman. She would do whatever it takes to protect her mum from this awful diagnosis.
Giovanni is a ruthless, caring, obsessed, and possessive man who won't give up until he gets Valentina and claim her as his own.
Even if some of the events were emotionally charged, I enjoyed how Shandi described every single one of them. Giovanni's possessiveness and devotion to Valentina were captivating and also how he does everything to make her happy, satisfied and comfortable.
The whole narrative is incredible. I cannot wait for Dante's story in the next book of the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
BRUTAL OBSESSION BY SHANDI BOYES
5 Stars
4 spice
Release Date : 27/03/2026
Firstly thank you Shandi Boyes on allowing me to receive an ARC copy of Brutal Obsession. This is my honest review:
Take one very Possessive Italian male, who falls hard and becomes obsessed. Then take one gorgeous female, who needs to find a way to help her ailing mother. You get a recipe for yet another successful Shandi Boyes book.
Giovanni Caruso, handsome, smart, dedicated to his family and their business. That is until he meets one Valentina Raimondi, while saving her life.
One meeting that leads to one steamy romance Valentina runs, Vanni chases her. It is an amazing story of ‘he falls first’ and boy does he fall hard. Valentina finds the man of her dreams but there are obstacles that cause problems along the way.
Sorry I don’t believe in spoilers, so you need to read.
The story is well written in the Shandi way, her characters draw you in and you find the book hard to put down. Completed well within 24 hours ( life kept getting in and interrupting )
Would I recommend, yes without a doubt. I look forward to reading future books in this new and exciting series about the Caruso Brothers, Giovanni, Dante, Matteo, Elio & Nico.
5 Stars
4 spice
Release Date : 27/03/2026
Firstly thank you Shandi Boyes on allowing me to receive an ARC copy of Brutal Obsession. This is my honest review:
Take one very Possessive Italian male, who falls hard and becomes obsessed. Then take one gorgeous female, who needs to find a way to help her ailing mother. You get a recipe for yet another successful Shandi Boyes book.
Giovanni Caruso, handsome, smart, dedicated to his family and their business. That is until he meets one Valentina Raimondi, while saving her life.
One meeting that leads to one steamy romance Valentina runs, Vanni chases her. It is an amazing story of ‘he falls first’ and boy does he fall hard. Valentina finds the man of her dreams but there are obstacles that cause problems along the way.
Sorry I don’t believe in spoilers, so you need to read.
The story is well written in the Shandi way, her characters draw you in and you find the book hard to put down. Completed well within 24 hours ( life kept getting in and interrupting )
Would I recommend, yes without a doubt. I look forward to reading future books in this new and exciting series about the Caruso Brothers, Giovanni, Dante, Matteo, Elio & Nico.
April 15, 2026
Ooooooo myyyyy goddess
First off I have to say Shandi NEVER disappoints her readers!!
I couldn't put this book down!
Anyone who loves an Alpha male with a heart has to give Brutal Obsession a read, Giovanni and Valentina are the perfect couple, my heart went out to Valentina throughout the whole book, such a strong young lady that really had life throwing curve balls at her left right and centre, and Giovanni showing that no matter what, his obsession was valid and real from the very first look.
The book had twists and turns that made me have ahh moments and o damn moments, and so much spice that I'm pretty sure left me blushing and thinking I need a fan. . .
Two things that really struck close for me, was reading Giusippes words to his son about stepping up for someone who isn't blood, as someone who is following the adoption process it made me feel stronger about the decision I'd made, and although the second part won't mean much to many but to me it made me smile. . .my late daddy was called Marino, seeing this as a character in this amazing book truly made me smile.
If I could give more than 5stars I absolutely would.
First off I have to say Shandi NEVER disappoints her readers!!
I couldn't put this book down!
Anyone who loves an Alpha male with a heart has to give Brutal Obsession a read, Giovanni and Valentina are the perfect couple, my heart went out to Valentina throughout the whole book, such a strong young lady that really had life throwing curve balls at her left right and centre, and Giovanni showing that no matter what, his obsession was valid and real from the very first look.
The book had twists and turns that made me have ahh moments and o damn moments, and so much spice that I'm pretty sure left me blushing and thinking I need a fan. . .
Two things that really struck close for me, was reading Giusippes words to his son about stepping up for someone who isn't blood, as someone who is following the adoption process it made me feel stronger about the decision I'd made, and although the second part won't mean much to many but to me it made me smile. . .my late daddy was called Marino, seeing this as a character in this amazing book truly made me smile.
If I could give more than 5stars I absolutely would.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Brutal Obsession by Shandi Boyes is the first installment in the Caruso Cosa Nostra series, and it absolutely delivers.
The story follows Valentina and Giovanni, bringing together obsession, passion, possessiveness, insecurity, strong alpha energy, and unexpected plot twists that keep you hooked from start to finish. Valentina has endured a difficult past, relying on the strength of her mother and aunt to survive. When life hands her a losing deck, she refuses to fold—choosing instead to start over in a new country in pursuit of something better.
Her beauty, determination, and fiery personality quickly capture the attention of Giovanni, the powerful head of the notorious Caruso family. Accustomed to putting his family above all else, Giovanni never expected to be thrown off balance—until Valentina. Once their paths cross, his obsession takes hold, and one thing becomes clear: Giovanni always gets what he wants.
Brutal Obsession is a true page-turner—I could hardly put it down, which comes as no surprise from this author. I can’t wait to see what’s next in the series.
The story follows Valentina and Giovanni, bringing together obsession, passion, possessiveness, insecurity, strong alpha energy, and unexpected plot twists that keep you hooked from start to finish. Valentina has endured a difficult past, relying on the strength of her mother and aunt to survive. When life hands her a losing deck, she refuses to fold—choosing instead to start over in a new country in pursuit of something better.
Her beauty, determination, and fiery personality quickly capture the attention of Giovanni, the powerful head of the notorious Caruso family. Accustomed to putting his family above all else, Giovanni never expected to be thrown off balance—until Valentina. Once their paths cross, his obsession takes hold, and one thing becomes clear: Giovanni always gets what he wants.
Brutal Obsession is a true page-turner—I could hardly put it down, which comes as no surprise from this author. I can’t wait to see what’s next in the series.
May 22, 2026
I loved Giovanni & Valentina's story. 🤩
The book is fast paced with quite a few unexpected plot twists, which was awesome & I really enjoyed the unexpected. I like the characters in the book - the supporting characters as well - Valentina's Mom & Aunt, as well as Giovanni's family.
I loved Giovanni's nickname - Vanni... He's part of the famous Caruso mafia family that's well known in Sicily... I loved the part where he went to work with her & helped out. 🤩
I loved that the book takes place in Italy... and with Valentina's perspective as an American, it's fun to see it from both sides.
This is Book 1 in the Caruso Cosa Nostra series. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!!
Spice level: 3/5
*Mafia romance
*morally grey MMC
*romantic suspense
*attemped murder
*talk of IVF/infertility issues (not a major theme)
*she's a bartender
*age gap
*Alpha obsessive/possessive protector hero
*curvy girl rep
*ends with a HEA
Thank you to the author (Shandi Boyes) & Booksprout for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
The book is fast paced with quite a few unexpected plot twists, which was awesome & I really enjoyed the unexpected. I like the characters in the book - the supporting characters as well - Valentina's Mom & Aunt, as well as Giovanni's family.
I loved Giovanni's nickname - Vanni... He's part of the famous Caruso mafia family that's well known in Sicily... I loved the part where he went to work with her & helped out. 🤩
I loved that the book takes place in Italy... and with Valentina's perspective as an American, it's fun to see it from both sides.
This is Book 1 in the Caruso Cosa Nostra series. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!!
Spice level: 3/5
*Mafia romance
*morally grey MMC
*romantic suspense
*attemped murder
*talk of IVF/infertility issues (not a major theme)
*she's a bartender
*age gap
*Alpha obsessive/possessive protector hero
*curvy girl rep
*ends with a HEA
Thank you to the author (Shandi Boyes) & Booksprout for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Where to start… Mafia romance with an obsessed MMC is my favorite trope, and I’ve read just about everything Shandi has written—but this one is next level.
The level of obsession Giovanni has is easily one of the most intense I’ve ever read. Nikolai has always been my favorite MMC because of his intensity and devotion to Ahren, but Gio rivals him in every possible way. The connection between him and Valentina feels like instant lust and love, and it completely pulls you in.
The unexpected twists and turns had me hooked—I finished this book in one sitting. The love and loyalty they both have for their families keep them grounded, even through all the chaos, which really adds depth to their characters.
And the spice? 🥵🥵🥵🥵
Think the passion of two teenagers with the experience and stamina of adults—completely unable to keep their hands off each other.
Overall, it was a wild ride, and I enjoyed every minute of it!
The level of obsession Giovanni has is easily one of the most intense I’ve ever read. Nikolai has always been my favorite MMC because of his intensity and devotion to Ahren, but Gio rivals him in every possible way. The connection between him and Valentina feels like instant lust and love, and it completely pulls you in.
The unexpected twists and turns had me hooked—I finished this book in one sitting. The love and loyalty they both have for their families keep them grounded, even through all the chaos, which really adds depth to their characters.
And the spice? 🥵🥵🥵🥵
Think the passion of two teenagers with the experience and stamina of adults—completely unable to keep their hands off each other.
Overall, it was a wild ride, and I enjoyed every minute of it!
March 27, 2026
Valentina and Giovanni are such wonderful characters to have read. I loved their storyline. Valentina is one beautifully written character so unselfish and such a support for her mother.
Giovanni Caruso is eldest of five and the head of the Caruso family. The Caruso family have expections that must be met.
Valentina is the only daughter to a single mother. Their lives are hard at the moment. Valentina is one strong determined wowan who will do whatever she feels she must to help her mother.
Giovanni also must do what's expected to ensure he produces an heir as the eldest son the the Caruso family.
Unexpected events prove to be the start of the unravelling dramas, betrayal and hidden secrets.
Their is plenty of twists and turns to keep you captivated and plenty of chemistry between Valentina and Giovanni that has you wanting more.
I can't wait to see how the storyline unfolds with the emotional pull between the families.
The beginning of a absolute 5 star series.
Giovanni Caruso is eldest of five and the head of the Caruso family. The Caruso family have expections that must be met.
Valentina is the only daughter to a single mother. Their lives are hard at the moment. Valentina is one strong determined wowan who will do whatever she feels she must to help her mother.
Giovanni also must do what's expected to ensure he produces an heir as the eldest son the the Caruso family.
Unexpected events prove to be the start of the unravelling dramas, betrayal and hidden secrets.
Their is plenty of twists and turns to keep you captivated and plenty of chemistry between Valentina and Giovanni that has you wanting more.
I can't wait to see how the storyline unfolds with the emotional pull between the families.
The beginning of a absolute 5 star series.
July 7, 2026
This is probably one of the first books I have read by this author. I love mafia romances with possessive over the top men. This story focuses on Valentina and Giovanni, both are dealing with sad and troubling family issues. Giovanni is the eldest sibling and must marry and produce a heir to insure the continuity of his family. Valentina is such a good kind person just struggling through life. Valentina decides to help her family who is struggling and in a desperate need of money but her assistance becomes a huge mistake when she becomes irrevocably tied to Giovanni. So suddenly she is living under his watch and these two cannot stay away from each other. Valentina becomes in effect the other woman since he is promised to someone else. This book is very spicy. It had some action and lots of drama.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shandi has done it again. This book is amazing! I have always been Team Isaac then Team Nikolai, but Giovanni is battling for first!
Valentina is going through it in this book and she is a rockstar for how she handles the crap dumped on her.
Vanni is the epitome of alpha male with all the qualities we love in morally gray book boyfriends.
Their love story is more than just a rollercoaster. It’s a rollercoaster with pauses for a little game of hide and seek 😏 to show that no matter what, it’s them. Together. Always.
There’s twists and turns and “what the eff Shandi” moments through the whole book. I did not want to put it down. As always, Shandi’s new book is well worth the read. 💜
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Plot 😈😈😈😈😈
Put-Down 🚫🚫🚫🚫
Character Development 📈📈📈📈
Re-Read ✅✅✅✅
Side-Character 📖📖📖
Valentina is going through it in this book and she is a rockstar for how she handles the crap dumped on her.
Vanni is the epitome of alpha male with all the qualities we love in morally gray book boyfriends.
Their love story is more than just a rollercoaster. It’s a rollercoaster with pauses for a little game of hide and seek 😏 to show that no matter what, it’s them. Together. Always.
There’s twists and turns and “what the eff Shandi” moments through the whole book. I did not want to put it down. As always, Shandi’s new book is well worth the read. 💜
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Plot 😈😈😈😈😈
Put-Down 🚫🚫🚫🚫
Character Development 📈📈📈📈
Re-Read ✅✅✅✅
Side-Character 📖📖📖
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t know how I’ll ever settle for a regular book boyfriend when Shandi’s mafia men keep getting better and better! By the book, I thought Isaac and Nikolai were prime examples of obsession and what a man would do to protect what was his. Well, move over, we’ve got an Italian stallion topping that! 🫠 Giovanni was a chef’s dream! 💋 Now, I want to get chased in some lemon groves. 🤣 Well, a girl could dream, right? Valentina was undoubtedly one fortunate individual. Those final 100 pages kept me on the edge of my seat. I attempted to prolong this read as long as possible, but I couldn’t resist putting it down. Now, I eagerly anticipate Dante’s and the other Caruso men’s books! 😏
Thank you Shandi for allowing me to ARC read another one of your amazing books !!!!!
Thank you Shandi for allowing me to ARC read another one of your amazing books !!!!!
April 30, 2026
Obsessed times infinity
"You can run, Valentina. But remember, when I catch you, I get to...you."
Talk about obsession. Another one of Shandi's MMC's that when he finds his one, he will let the whole world know if he needs to that she's his. Valentina, in a rush to get to her appointment, nearly loses her life. Giovanni saves her and that's when his world turns every which was but loose.
He tries everything to find her again after he helps and drops her off. When the stars align, it happens and they meet again. Only this time secrets, history and money tries to break what is meant to be.
Lovesd this one. If you love a MMC who literally protects, who can't be away from his woman, who stalks till she's his, then this one is for you.
"You can run, Valentina. But remember, when I catch you, I get to...you."
Talk about obsession. Another one of Shandi's MMC's that when he finds his one, he will let the whole world know if he needs to that she's his. Valentina, in a rush to get to her appointment, nearly loses her life. Giovanni saves her and that's when his world turns every which was but loose.
He tries everything to find her again after he helps and drops her off. When the stars align, it happens and they meet again. Only this time secrets, history and money tries to break what is meant to be.
Lovesd this one. If you love a MMC who literally protects, who can't be away from his woman, who stalks till she's his, then this one is for you.
May 22, 2026
Whew, the sparks fly when Giovanni saves Valentina from sudden death. Their first encounter has to be one of the most memorable I've ever read. My heart goes out to Valentina for everything she is sacrificing for her mother, all while a desperate Giovanni tries to track her down.
Just when I thought it couldn't get any crazier, it did! Talk about a major screw-up. It felt like a real twist of fate, with a bit of darkness, hard decisions, and some extremely spicy moments as these two find their way to each other against all odds. I also found it hilarious how they get the truth out of each other. Honestly, I absolutely loved everything about this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Just when I thought it couldn't get any crazier, it did! Talk about a major screw-up. It felt like a real twist of fate, with a bit of darkness, hard decisions, and some extremely spicy moments as these two find their way to each other against all odds. I also found it hilarious how they get the truth out of each other. Honestly, I absolutely loved everything about this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2026
Shandi Boyes never disappoints me! I was intrigued by Valentina and Giovanni from the very first page. The chase in this book was AMAZING. I also loved that the main characters didn't hate their parents. A lot of books I read, the parents are complete jerks and no one likes them. In Brutal Obsession, Giovanni's dad was amazing and heartbroken from losing his wife while Valentina was trying to save her mom from dying. It was different than normal and I loved it. Valentina and Giovanni were the perfect couple and Giovanni never gave up. And thank you for no third act break up! Trust the entire time! Anything Shandi writes, I will read.
June 3, 2026
very, very, very steamy hot
Brutal Obsession is the first book in the new Caruso Cosa Nostra series by Shandi Boyes. This author is a "just click" for me whenever there is a new book. I enjoyed this first book in the new series as it introduced several characters into the world that you want to know more about. The story is about Valentina Raimondi and Giovanni Caruso. I will say that some of the writing seemed a bit off to me at times as they characters where underdeveloped at points or did things that did not make sense, and instead made me laugh. But overall it was a good read and I have already cracked open the next book.
Brutal Obsession is the first book in the new Caruso Cosa Nostra series by Shandi Boyes. This author is a "just click" for me whenever there is a new book. I enjoyed this first book in the new series as it introduced several characters into the world that you want to know more about. The story is about Valentina Raimondi and Giovanni Caruso. I will say that some of the writing seemed a bit off to me at times as they characters where underdeveloped at points or did things that did not make sense, and instead made me laugh. But overall it was a good read and I have already cracked open the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Valentina might be Giovanni’s obsession but it is so much more, it is a deep love. He will do anything to keep her happy and does so much for her in this unique approach. Family is important to both of them and both have a parent on the verge of dying and that has a significant impact on them. There are so many twists at the end that it seems improbable, there is even a surprise guest appearance, but it all makes so much sense and the ending is perfect. A wonderful, steamy, fun and poignant story that you will not be able to put down once you start.
April 4, 2026
Mafia intrigue and excitement
Shandi has knocked it out of the park with this mafia work of art. I just knew it was going to be good, but she kept me on the edge of my seat...crying, laughing, gasping, and all the feels.
Valentina and Giovanni - what a thrilling storyline with highs and lows throughout, and in typical Shandi fashion, the chemistry between these two is off the charts. I could not put this down and never wanted it to end, praying and hoping for the HEA.
If you are thinking of delving into mafia genre, then this book is definitely one you want to grab and devour.
Shandi has knocked it out of the park with this mafia work of art. I just knew it was going to be good, but she kept me on the edge of my seat...crying, laughing, gasping, and all the feels.
Valentina and Giovanni - what a thrilling storyline with highs and lows throughout, and in typical Shandi fashion, the chemistry between these two is off the charts. I could not put this down and never wanted it to end, praying and hoping for the HEA.
If you are thinking of delving into mafia genre, then this book is definitely one you want to grab and devour.
May 30, 2026
Book 1 of Caruso Cosa Nostra. And a FANtastic start it is! Look forward to more from this world.
'Brutal Obsession is a standalone age-gap mafia romance with a curvy heroine, and the man utterly obsessed with her.'
The characters were very complex and compelling and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy the read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'Brutal Obsession is a standalone age-gap mafia romance with a curvy heroine, and the man utterly obsessed with her.'
The characters were very complex and compelling and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy the read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2026
What did I just read. A fertility clinic messes up on an egg donation. So instead of taking her eggs they impregnate her instead. wtf. These characters were obnoxious as heck too. The MMC gave me the ick every time he said “I smell good in you” uhhhh. It’s also a line he repeats over and over again. If you want a book with a ton of smut and little plot. Here you go. Everytime you turn around he was all over her. The mystery father figure, the I’m too poor to exist, and being saved my mafia money bucks. I usually love a good cliche of tropes but this wasn’t it.
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