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Malice
Gwendolyn
I’m a hacker. I deal with dangerous men and dirty secrets every day.
But no one as lethal as Malice.
He’s the kingpin of the underworld, a man whose name is whispered in fear, and he wants my help. After I give it, he offers me something for me and my family I can’t refuse.
Months pass with nothing but late-night calls and encrypted messages between us.
Until one night changes everything, and I’m forced to reach out to him for help.
This time, there’s no screen between us.
Malice
She steps into my world like she’s made for it.
Smart. Defiant. Fire wrapped in temptation.
I crave the spark she throws at me just as much as the softer side, but that’s the part of her that makes me want to protect.
So I’ll keep her close, where no other man will dare look at what belongs to me.
Content reader discretion is advised. Full details are available inside the book and on our social pages.
𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔:
🖤Dark mafia romance
🖤Morally grey hero
🖤Strong FMC
🖤Touch her and
🖤Slow burn
🖤Grumpy boss/ sunshine employee
🖤Organized crime
I’m a hacker. I deal with dangerous men and dirty secrets every day.
But no one as lethal as Malice.
He’s the kingpin of the underworld, a man whose name is whispered in fear, and he wants my help. After I give it, he offers me something for me and my family I can’t refuse.
Months pass with nothing but late-night calls and encrypted messages between us.
Until one night changes everything, and I’m forced to reach out to him for help.
This time, there’s no screen between us.
Malice
She steps into my world like she’s made for it.
Smart. Defiant. Fire wrapped in temptation.
I crave the spark she throws at me just as much as the softer side, but that’s the part of her that makes me want to protect.
So I’ll keep her close, where no other man will dare look at what belongs to me.
Content reader discretion is advised. Full details are available inside the book and on our social pages.
𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔:
🖤Dark mafia romance
🖤Morally grey hero
🖤Strong FMC
🖤Touch her and
🖤Slow burn
🖤Grumpy boss/ sunshine employee
🖤Organized crime
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2026
About the author
Lila Rose
57 books4,004 followers Lila Rose is also known as L. Rose.
Lila Rose has moved about Australia a lot of her life. Currently, she lives in country Victoria Australia with her husband and two children.
Lila is addicted to coffee, chocolate and reading.
She also loves to write humorous romance. For all novels that come from her weird brain, check out her website!
Lila Rose has moved about Australia a lot of her life. Currently, she lives in country Victoria Australia with her husband and two children.
Lila is addicted to coffee, chocolate and reading.
She also loves to write humorous romance. For all novels that come from her weird brain, check out her website!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 23, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
The mafia storyline was fighting for its life against my obsession with the family dynamics.
The mafia politics existed. The hacking happened. People were threatened.
Meanwhile, I was over here kicking my feet because Max attended a basketball game and kept making sure Gwen ate lunch.
Once Max started collecting family members like Pokémon and acting like everyones unofficial stepdad, it was over for me.
What worked for me
(aka: I accidentally got emotionally attached to an entire neighborhood)
The romance was easily the strongest part of this book.
Max and Gwen's relationship develops through banter, trust, routine and genuine companionship. They spend time together. They talk. They annoy each other. They become part of each other's everyday lives. I loved that their connection wasn't built entirely on physical attraction. The chemistry was there from the start but what really sold me was watching them gradually become each other's person.
Gwen was a refreshing heroine. She had insecurities but she wasn't trapped in endless cycles of poor decisions and manufactured drama. She communicated, reflected, admitted when she was wrong and eventually allowed herself to accept the happiness she wanted instead of constantly running from it.
And Max/Malice?
This man started the book as a feared crime lord and somehow ended it worrying about whether Gwen had eaten, planning family outings and unofficially adopting her siblings.
I fear I was the target audience.
The found family dynamic elevated the entire book. Felix and Amelia felt like fully developed characters rather than plot devices, the twins brought plenty of humor, Valentina added warmth and every appearance from Stasia, Greg, Reaper or Torment added humor and personality.
Every time the story leaned into family dinners, sibling chaos and found-family shenanigans, my enjoyment skyrocketed.
This book understood that domestic intimacy is a powerful drug and I consumed it willingly.
Where it lost me
(aka: not everything was hitting at the same level)
The mafia politics were mostly background wallpaper.
The organised crime storyline never became particularly compelling for me.
It wasn't bad. It served its purpose. But if I'm being honest, every time we shifted away from Gwen, Max and the family dynamics, my investment dropped considerably.
I cared far more about who was showing up for dinner than who was controlling which territory.
The hacking premise deserved a little more attention.
I actually liked that Gwen's skills remained relevant throughout the story but considering their initial connection was built around her hacking expertise, I expected it to play a slightly bigger role overall.
Instead, it often felt like a secondary element supporting the romance rather than a fully developed storyline in its own right.
"Doll" and I were never destined to be friends.
I know some readers will absolutely melt over this nickname.
Unfortunately, I'm not one of those readers.
And every time he upgraded it to "my perfect doll" I experienced a brief but powerful secondhand cringe.
It never ruined scenes for me and I eventually learned to tune it out but let's just say if Max had retired "doll" a little earlier, I wouldn't have complained.
The villain reveal wasn't exactly subtle.
The kidnapping storyline raised the stakes and gave us some entertaining action scenes but I can't pretend I was shocked by the reveal.
Let's just say I wasn't pinning red string to a conspiracy board trying to figure this one out.
That said, watching Max, Reaper and Torment tear through a warehouse like a tactical strike team was entertaining enough that I didn't particularly care.
Final thoughts
What surprised me most about this book is that it succeeded in the areas I wasn't expecting.
I came for the possessive mafia romance and stayed for the found family.
The strongest parts weren't the criminal empire, the power plays or even the action sequences. They were the quieter moments: shared meals, sibling interactions, emotional reassurance, basketball games, domestic chaos and watching two people slowly build a life together.
Max and Gwen felt like partners long before they officially became one and that made every emotional milestone land harder.
Final verdict
4.25 ⭐️ - A surprisingly sweet, funny, family-focused mafia romance featuring a possessive crime lord who spent so much time adopting his girlfriend's family that he accidentally became husband material.
Apparently my weakness is a possessive crime lord with family values.
Tropes and Vibes:
• Mafia romance
• Possessive mafia hero
• Hacker heroine
• Touch-her-and-die energy
• Found family / Accidental family adoption
• Forced proximity
• Family dinners as a love language
• Overprotective future stepdad vibes
• Caretaking / Emotional reassurance
• Domestic intimacy
• Sibling chaos
• Ride-or-die friend group
• Crime lord gets domesticated
• He falls first / He falls harder
• Emotional support mafia boss supremacy
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Pre-read:
Me opening a mafia romance knowing full well these people need therapy, prison and communication skills: 🧍🏻♀️✨
The mafia storyline was fighting for its life against my obsession with the family dynamics.
The mafia politics existed. The hacking happened. People were threatened.
Meanwhile, I was over here kicking my feet because Max attended a basketball game and kept making sure Gwen ate lunch.
Once Max started collecting family members like Pokémon and acting like everyones unofficial stepdad, it was over for me.
What worked for me
(aka: I accidentally got emotionally attached to an entire neighborhood)
The romance was easily the strongest part of this book.
Max and Gwen's relationship develops through banter, trust, routine and genuine companionship. They spend time together. They talk. They annoy each other. They become part of each other's everyday lives. I loved that their connection wasn't built entirely on physical attraction. The chemistry was there from the start but what really sold me was watching them gradually become each other's person.
Gwen was a refreshing heroine. She had insecurities but she wasn't trapped in endless cycles of poor decisions and manufactured drama. She communicated, reflected, admitted when she was wrong and eventually allowed herself to accept the happiness she wanted instead of constantly running from it.
And Max/Malice?
This man started the book as a feared crime lord and somehow ended it worrying about whether Gwen had eaten, planning family outings and unofficially adopting her siblings.
I fear I was the target audience.
The found family dynamic elevated the entire book. Felix and Amelia felt like fully developed characters rather than plot devices, the twins brought plenty of humor, Valentina added warmth and every appearance from Stasia, Greg, Reaper or Torment added humor and personality.
Every time the story leaned into family dinners, sibling chaos and found-family shenanigans, my enjoyment skyrocketed.
This book understood that domestic intimacy is a powerful drug and I consumed it willingly.
Where it lost me
(aka: not everything was hitting at the same level)
The mafia politics were mostly background wallpaper.
The organised crime storyline never became particularly compelling for me.
It wasn't bad. It served its purpose. But if I'm being honest, every time we shifted away from Gwen, Max and the family dynamics, my investment dropped considerably.
I cared far more about who was showing up for dinner than who was controlling which territory.
The hacking premise deserved a little more attention.
I actually liked that Gwen's skills remained relevant throughout the story but considering their initial connection was built around her hacking expertise, I expected it to play a slightly bigger role overall.
Instead, it often felt like a secondary element supporting the romance rather than a fully developed storyline in its own right.
"Doll" and I were never destined to be friends.
I know some readers will absolutely melt over this nickname.
Unfortunately, I'm not one of those readers.
And every time he upgraded it to "my perfect doll" I experienced a brief but powerful secondhand cringe.
It never ruined scenes for me and I eventually learned to tune it out but let's just say if Max had retired "doll" a little earlier, I wouldn't have complained.
The villain reveal wasn't exactly subtle.
The kidnapping storyline raised the stakes and gave us some entertaining action scenes but I can't pretend I was shocked by the reveal.
Let's just say I wasn't pinning red string to a conspiracy board trying to figure this one out.
That said, watching Max, Reaper and Torment tear through a warehouse like a tactical strike team was entertaining enough that I didn't particularly care.
Final thoughts
What surprised me most about this book is that it succeeded in the areas I wasn't expecting.
I came for the possessive mafia romance and stayed for the found family.
The strongest parts weren't the criminal empire, the power plays or even the action sequences. They were the quieter moments: shared meals, sibling interactions, emotional reassurance, basketball games, domestic chaos and watching two people slowly build a life together.
Max and Gwen felt like partners long before they officially became one and that made every emotional milestone land harder.
Final verdict
4.25 ⭐️ - A surprisingly sweet, funny, family-focused mafia romance featuring a possessive crime lord who spent so much time adopting his girlfriend's family that he accidentally became husband material.
Apparently my weakness is a possessive crime lord with family values.
Tropes and Vibes:
• Mafia romance
• Possessive mafia hero
• Hacker heroine
• Touch-her-and-die energy
• Found family / Accidental family adoption
• Forced proximity
• Family dinners as a love language
• Overprotective future stepdad vibes
• Caretaking / Emotional reassurance
• Domestic intimacy
• Sibling chaos
• Ride-or-die friend group
• Crime lord gets domesticated
• He falls first / He falls harder
• Emotional support mafia boss supremacy
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Pre-read:
Me opening a mafia romance knowing full well these people need therapy, prison and communication skills: 🧍🏻♀️✨
June 1, 2026
No es un libro perfecto ni muchísimo menos, historia y personajes bastante planos y demás, pero después de la birria de libros que llevo, este lo he disfrutado bastante, para variar!
Engancha, se lee rapidísimo y, además, tiene una trama que no consiste solo en sexo, lo que es de agradecer 🤪.
Engancha, se lee rapidísimo y, además, tiene una trama que no consiste solo en sexo, lo que es de agradecer 🤪.
July 20, 2026
Bloody Brilliant!
I loved this, as much as it’s quite dark in spots - I was also smiling and laughing at times. Hope there’s definitely more coming to make this a series!
I loved this, as much as it’s quite dark in spots - I was also smiling and laughing at times. Hope there’s definitely more coming to make this a series!
June 22, 2026
I Need Books for All of These People.
3.5 ⭐️
I really enjoyed this one. The humor and banter between both the main and secondary characters had me hoping, before I was even halfway through, that this would turn into a series with books for everyone.
The mafia aspect was a little gorier than I prefer at times, and the spicy scenes felt oddly disconnected from the rest of the book. Since it’s written by two authors, I found myself wondering if one handled those scenes because the tone seemed different and a bit corny to me. I ended up skimming most of them.
Overall though, a fun read with great characters, and I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
3.5 ⭐️
I really enjoyed this one. The humor and banter between both the main and secondary characters had me hoping, before I was even halfway through, that this would turn into a series with books for everyone.
The mafia aspect was a little gorier than I prefer at times, and the spicy scenes felt oddly disconnected from the rest of the book. Since it’s written by two authors, I found myself wondering if one handled those scenes because the tone seemed different and a bit corny to me. I ended up skimming most of them.
Overall though, a fun read with great characters, and I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
May 31, 2026
DNF
I had high hopes for this story, based on reviews. However, from the very first page I knew this wasn't going to be for me.
This book was very annoying to read. It felt like a teenager writing their first mafia fanfic.
After about 40 pages, I began to skip forward hoping it would improve. Before finally giving up.
I don't know if this is how the author normally writes, or if it was because she was writing with her daughter. Either way, it was painful to experience.
I had high hopes for this story, based on reviews. However, from the very first page I knew this wasn't going to be for me.
This book was very annoying to read. It felt like a teenager writing their first mafia fanfic.
After about 40 pages, I began to skip forward hoping it would improve. Before finally giving up.
I don't know if this is how the author normally writes, or if it was because she was writing with her daughter. Either way, it was painful to experience.
May 19, 2026
If you have been a Lila Rose reader and have been reading her bikers, then you will remember Malice and Gwen from Up in Blaze.
Malice needed information. Two people stole from him and he needed to find them and make an example. So he got the best hacker he could get to find them. What he didn’t expect was the feelings that Gwen would evoke in him.
Gwen is a guardian to her brother and sister. Since a young age she has taken care of them, and she was amazing with computers. So she took care of them the only way she knew how, by working jobs that she didn’t want anyone knowing she does. When her friend Blaze asks her for a favor to help out ‘The Devil’ (lol) she thought what the heck, one favour.
But the minute Malice spoke to Gwen he knew that he wanted her for himself. And he doesn’t’ like sharing. Now all he had to do was get Gwen on board. Which wouldn’t be too hard as it seems like she attracts trouble and she will do anything to keep her brother and sister safe.
This story was AMAZING. I loved every minute of it. Malice is a hard person. He has to be, to be the head of his family. But when he met Gwen, she was the only one he would let walk over him and enjoy it. The minute she started working for him, she was under his protection and he would do anything to keep her and her family safe.
Gwen was a funny, I loved how she babbled when she was nervous. But also that she had no filter. But she loved her family and her best friend. The minute she started talking to Malice, she was hooked. I loved the different nicknames she called him. Every part of this story kept you wanting more. The fun (when she called him diff names), the suspense and bit of dark (entering Malice’s world), and the romance (the way he would do anything for Gwen).
If you are looking for all of this in a story, then totally buy this one. You won't be sorry. I hope we get the rest of Malice’s crews’ stories. I am dying for Reaper and Torment’s story. Even Malice’s brother Vincent 😊
Lila Rose and Shayla Rose, I am ready for the next one 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
Malice needed information. Two people stole from him and he needed to find them and make an example. So he got the best hacker he could get to find them. What he didn’t expect was the feelings that Gwen would evoke in him.
Gwen is a guardian to her brother and sister. Since a young age she has taken care of them, and she was amazing with computers. So she took care of them the only way she knew how, by working jobs that she didn’t want anyone knowing she does. When her friend Blaze asks her for a favor to help out ‘The Devil’ (lol) she thought what the heck, one favour.
But the minute Malice spoke to Gwen he knew that he wanted her for himself. And he doesn’t’ like sharing. Now all he had to do was get Gwen on board. Which wouldn’t be too hard as it seems like she attracts trouble and she will do anything to keep her brother and sister safe.
This story was AMAZING. I loved every minute of it. Malice is a hard person. He has to be, to be the head of his family. But when he met Gwen, she was the only one he would let walk over him and enjoy it. The minute she started working for him, she was under his protection and he would do anything to keep her and her family safe.
Gwen was a funny, I loved how she babbled when she was nervous. But also that she had no filter. But she loved her family and her best friend. The minute she started talking to Malice, she was hooked. I loved the different nicknames she called him. Every part of this story kept you wanting more. The fun (when she called him diff names), the suspense and bit of dark (entering Malice’s world), and the romance (the way he would do anything for Gwen).
If you are looking for all of this in a story, then totally buy this one. You won't be sorry. I hope we get the rest of Malice’s crews’ stories. I am dying for Reaper and Torment’s story. Even Malice’s brother Vincent 😊
Lila Rose and Shayla Rose, I am ready for the next one 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
July 21, 2026
She hacked her way into his heart
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
🖥️ Hacker FMC
🖥️ Head of the Mafia MMC
🖥️ He Falls First
🖥️ Touch Her and Die
My Thoughts:
I am a huge fan of Lila Rose's books, so when I heard she was venturing into the darker side of romance, it was an instant buy for me! And, of course, she had me laughing from the very beginning. Her books always manage to make me smile, and this one was no exception.
The chemistry and banter between Gwendolyn and Malice were absolutely amazing. I loved their dynamic, especially watching Malice fall first and seeing Gwen completely challenge him in ways no one else would dare.
Summary:
Gwendolyn is a talented hacker who gets asked by her friend to help with a job for Malice. She's not intimidated by the man on the other end of the phone and has no problem giving him a hard time, even going as far as giving him ridiculous pet names. Somehow, instead of being annoyed, Malice finds himself entertained—and intrigued.
Gwen gets the job done so quickly and efficiently that Malice decides he wants her working exclusively for him. Gwen agrees, seeing it as an opportunity to spend more time with her family while continuing to do what she loves.
But Malice isn't just any client. He's the head of one of the biggest mafia organizations in the country, and he's not used to anyone challenging him or treating him like a normal person. Gwen, however, doesn't seem to care who he is—and that's exactly what draws him to her.
When Gwen starts digging into things she probably shouldn't, she finds herself with a target on her back. Luckily, Malice is more than ready to protect what he considers his. He moves Gwen into his home, and the chemistry between them quickly becomes impossible to ignore.
But while Malice is focused on keeping Gwen safe, someone is determined to bring him down—and they'll stop at nothing to make it happen.
With danger closing in, Malice will have to protect both his empire and the woman who has somehow become his greatest weakness.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
🖥️ Hacker FMC
🖥️ Head of the Mafia MMC
🖥️ He Falls First
🖥️ Touch Her and Die
My Thoughts:
I am a huge fan of Lila Rose's books, so when I heard she was venturing into the darker side of romance, it was an instant buy for me! And, of course, she had me laughing from the very beginning. Her books always manage to make me smile, and this one was no exception.
The chemistry and banter between Gwendolyn and Malice were absolutely amazing. I loved their dynamic, especially watching Malice fall first and seeing Gwen completely challenge him in ways no one else would dare.
Summary:
Gwendolyn is a talented hacker who gets asked by her friend to help with a job for Malice. She's not intimidated by the man on the other end of the phone and has no problem giving him a hard time, even going as far as giving him ridiculous pet names. Somehow, instead of being annoyed, Malice finds himself entertained—and intrigued.
Gwen gets the job done so quickly and efficiently that Malice decides he wants her working exclusively for him. Gwen agrees, seeing it as an opportunity to spend more time with her family while continuing to do what she loves.
But Malice isn't just any client. He's the head of one of the biggest mafia organizations in the country, and he's not used to anyone challenging him or treating him like a normal person. Gwen, however, doesn't seem to care who he is—and that's exactly what draws him to her.
When Gwen starts digging into things she probably shouldn't, she finds herself with a target on her back. Luckily, Malice is more than ready to protect what he considers his. He moves Gwen into his home, and the chemistry between them quickly becomes impossible to ignore.
But while Malice is focused on keeping Gwen safe, someone is determined to bring him down—and they'll stop at nothing to make it happen.
With danger closing in, Malice will have to protect both his empire and the woman who has somehow become his greatest weakness.
May 19, 2026
Malice was one of those dark mafia romances that immediately pulls you in with the tension, chemistry, danger, and obsession 😭🖤
I’ve already loved Lila Rose’s books before this, so going into this one I already had high expectations — and honestly, the collaboration between Lila Rose and Shayla Rose worked SO well together.
I genuinely hope they co-author more books in the future because this combination was amazing.
What made this even more exciting for me was already being introduced to these characters previously in Up in a Blaze. Seeing their story fully unfold here made everything feel even more intense and satisfying.
The chemistry between Malice and Gwendolyn absolutely carried this book.
From the banter to the tension to the attraction simmering underneath every interaction, it constantly kept me wanting to read “just one more chapter.”
And Malice???
That man was possessive, protective, dangerous, and completely gone for her in the best mafia romance way possible.
I especially loved how protective he became over what he considered his while still maintaining that morally gray edge throughout the story.
The suspense and drama woven throughout the romance also helped keep the pacing addictive because there was always something happening emotionally or plot-wise.
Honestly, if I hadn’t started this near bedtime, I probably would’ve devoured it in one sitting.
If you enjoy:
🖤 Dark mafia romance
🔥 Morally gray MMCs
✨ Strong FMCs
⚔️ Organized crime
🌙 Slow burn tension
💀 Protective/possessive heroes
🖤 Touch her and die vibes
then I definitely recommend this one.
⭐️ 5/5
🔥 4.5/5
🌶️ 4/5
💧 3.5/5
Thank you to Lila Rose and Shayla Rose for the ARC opportunity. All opinions are my own.
I’ve already loved Lila Rose’s books before this, so going into this one I already had high expectations — and honestly, the collaboration between Lila Rose and Shayla Rose worked SO well together.
I genuinely hope they co-author more books in the future because this combination was amazing.
What made this even more exciting for me was already being introduced to these characters previously in Up in a Blaze. Seeing their story fully unfold here made everything feel even more intense and satisfying.
The chemistry between Malice and Gwendolyn absolutely carried this book.
From the banter to the tension to the attraction simmering underneath every interaction, it constantly kept me wanting to read “just one more chapter.”
And Malice???
That man was possessive, protective, dangerous, and completely gone for her in the best mafia romance way possible.
I especially loved how protective he became over what he considered his while still maintaining that morally gray edge throughout the story.
The suspense and drama woven throughout the romance also helped keep the pacing addictive because there was always something happening emotionally or plot-wise.
Honestly, if I hadn’t started this near bedtime, I probably would’ve devoured it in one sitting.
If you enjoy:
🖤 Dark mafia romance
🔥 Morally gray MMCs
✨ Strong FMCs
⚔️ Organized crime
🌙 Slow burn tension
💀 Protective/possessive heroes
🖤 Touch her and die vibes
then I definitely recommend this one.
⭐️ 5/5
🔥 4.5/5
🌶️ 4/5
💧 3.5/5
Thank you to Lila Rose and Shayla Rose for the ARC opportunity. All opinions are my own.
May 30, 2026
Oh wow...
Yeah, so I absolutely loved Malice and Gwen. She was a really strong FMC. She was funny, if not a little too much sometimes, but it's what Malice needed in order to alleviate some of the darkness. I loved how much he wanted Gwen. He didn't just want to possess her... he craved her and that was spectacular. This book could have had an extra hundred pages and it still would have been fantastic, because when it was done I wanted more. Sadly, I looked at the author's other books and well, meh! I would also love a book on Anastasia and Torment.
Let me tell you why it was fantastic... no body betrayal syndrome. YES! He earned her wanting him. He didn't use her body against her. He didn't need to. He just needed to show her that he wanted her for more than just one night. I need more Malice!!!!!
Anyway, I will keep an eye out for more of these lovely "dark" books, because though it was only dark due to the violence, it was spectacular in the ❤️ 😍 💖. I won't follow this author because it looks like she has tropes that don't interest me, but if she has anything more in the "dark" mafia books... I'm in! I put quotes around the dark, because the book wasn't dark. It had violence, and it wasn't light, but it was far from some of the dark mafia books I've read. Of course those came with unredeemable MMC and body betrayal syndrome. So, I'm perfectly happy with her version of dark.
Here's to hoping for more!
Yeah, so I absolutely loved Malice and Gwen. She was a really strong FMC. She was funny, if not a little too much sometimes, but it's what Malice needed in order to alleviate some of the darkness. I loved how much he wanted Gwen. He didn't just want to possess her... he craved her and that was spectacular. This book could have had an extra hundred pages and it still would have been fantastic, because when it was done I wanted more. Sadly, I looked at the author's other books and well, meh! I would also love a book on Anastasia and Torment.
Let me tell you why it was fantastic... no body betrayal syndrome. YES! He earned her wanting him. He didn't use her body against her. He didn't need to. He just needed to show her that he wanted her for more than just one night. I need more Malice!!!!!
Anyway, I will keep an eye out for more of these lovely "dark" books, because though it was only dark due to the violence, it was spectacular in the ❤️ 😍 💖. I won't follow this author because it looks like she has tropes that don't interest me, but if she has anything more in the "dark" mafia books... I'm in! I put quotes around the dark, because the book wasn't dark. It had violence, and it wasn't light, but it was far from some of the dark mafia books I've read. Of course those came with unredeemable MMC and body betrayal syndrome. So, I'm perfectly happy with her version of dark.
Here's to hoping for more!
May 18, 2026
If you are a lover of dark mafia romance but still want to have that lighter side to it as the banter between the main characters makes you laugh, then Malice is the book for you. This author has co-written this book with her daughter and I think these two together brought the darkness, the light, witty banter, heat, drama and suspense. From the first interaction between Gwen and Malice you are drawn to this pair. The chemistry, tension and attraction between these two draws you deeper into the pages and believe me you do not want to come back out. Gwen will have you laughing out loud at the things she says to Mr Mafia Man that no one else would get away with. I loved that Gwen was a strong character and slipped seamlessly into his world without even batting an eye. Malice was a man that would protect what was his, but with Gwen and her family this was next level. The heat between these two was scorching hot. Their story will have you on the edge of your seat and if you were anything like me, you will be unable to put this book down. Malice will have your pulse racing, your heart beating fast, your emotions will be all over the place and at times you will be holding your breath. Take a walk on the dark side with Malice because believe me you will not regret it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
A cowrite for Lila - with her daughter Shayla. And this felt very on brand with Lila’s other works.
Both Gwen and Malice seemed a little different to me than how I’d envisioned them in Up in a Blaze (and maybe Romania?), Gwen especially - I think I’d gotten the impression she was older and raspier. But she’s definitely the feisty take no cr4p woman I expected, which I appreciated.
There’s lots of fun, flirty banter between Malice and Gwen, and heated tension before they go up in flames. It is a little darker than some of Lila’s other books, maybe more descriptive than some scenes in her Hawks MC and Diamond MC books - but I didn’t find it too graphic.
Good side characters in Malice’s blood relatives (well, bar one) and Gwen’s siblings, best friend and neighbour. There’s a little spice as their chemistry takes over, some mafia drama towards the finale and a pretty sweet ending.
Gwen reminded me of one of my favourite female MCs of Lila’s - Raya from Death. That’s one of my favourite books of hers and this is edging towards it.
I enjoyed this, I wonder what’s next from the Roses.
A cowrite for Lila - with her daughter Shayla. And this felt very on brand with Lila’s other works.
Both Gwen and Malice seemed a little different to me than how I’d envisioned them in Up in a Blaze (and maybe Romania?), Gwen especially - I think I’d gotten the impression she was older and raspier. But she’s definitely the feisty take no cr4p woman I expected, which I appreciated.
There’s lots of fun, flirty banter between Malice and Gwen, and heated tension before they go up in flames. It is a little darker than some of Lila’s other books, maybe more descriptive than some scenes in her Hawks MC and Diamond MC books - but I didn’t find it too graphic.
Good side characters in Malice’s blood relatives (well, bar one) and Gwen’s siblings, best friend and neighbour. There’s a little spice as their chemistry takes over, some mafia drama towards the finale and a pretty sweet ending.
Gwen reminded me of one of my favourite female MCs of Lila’s - Raya from Death. That’s one of my favourite books of hers and this is edging towards it.
I enjoyed this, I wonder what’s next from the Roses.
July 26, 2026
Review of Malice by Lila Rose
* * * * *
A standalone spin off from the fantastic MC series provided by Lila and created by two amazing women who know how give as a great read, lots of laughs, some epic steaminess and fun amounts of banter and sexual tension.
It was only meant to be a job.
That led to a contract, lots of fun banter of the phone, and a connection both Gwen, a loner hacker raising her two younger siblings with a sassy mouth, and a underworld boss man who runs a tight ship and deals deadly business as easy as pressing a button.
When Gwen lands herself in trouble, he is the first person she calls.
The sexy voice on the phone becomes a big man in a suit who stakes his claim, and the dangersou world this hacker has been seeing on the screen is now right in front of her.
5 stars! Thumbs up! Applause!
Love how we got some familiar faces and giggles, the same amazing vibe that comes from this world of protective hunky men and women who just can't stop wanting to test them in the best possible way. Action, danger, great timing, a-holes who get what they deserve, and date nights that go well and truly past curfew.
* * * * *
A standalone spin off from the fantastic MC series provided by Lila and created by two amazing women who know how give as a great read, lots of laughs, some epic steaminess and fun amounts of banter and sexual tension.
It was only meant to be a job.
That led to a contract, lots of fun banter of the phone, and a connection both Gwen, a loner hacker raising her two younger siblings with a sassy mouth, and a underworld boss man who runs a tight ship and deals deadly business as easy as pressing a button.
When Gwen lands herself in trouble, he is the first person she calls.
The sexy voice on the phone becomes a big man in a suit who stakes his claim, and the dangersou world this hacker has been seeing on the screen is now right in front of her.
5 stars! Thumbs up! Applause!
Love how we got some familiar faces and giggles, the same amazing vibe that comes from this world of protective hunky men and women who just can't stop wanting to test them in the best possible way. Action, danger, great timing, a-holes who get what they deserve, and date nights that go well and truly past curfew.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Author
Malice by Lila Rose & Shayla Rose
The main characters, Gwendolyn and Malice, was first introduced in Romania from the Hawks MC: Next Generation series. Gwendolyn is a sweet, quirky character who takes no bullshit from nobody. She's all about taking care of those who she considers family, and if anything happens to them, just know there's going be hell to pay. Malice is an intense, serious character who everyone is fear of because of his reputation as the mafia boss. However, if you cause any harm to his family including Gwen and her family, just know you wished you didn't because he ain't gonna hold back when protecting his family.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Malice because of the characters and the emotional rollercoaster. The characters, especially Gwen, brought the book to life. Plus, the romance is very good and it had right amount action to give the book a little flavor.
Malice by Lila Rose & Shayla Rose
The main characters, Gwendolyn and Malice, was first introduced in Romania from the Hawks MC: Next Generation series. Gwendolyn is a sweet, quirky character who takes no bullshit from nobody. She's all about taking care of those who she considers family, and if anything happens to them, just know there's going be hell to pay. Malice is an intense, serious character who everyone is fear of because of his reputation as the mafia boss. However, if you cause any harm to his family including Gwen and her family, just know you wished you didn't because he ain't gonna hold back when protecting his family.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Malice because of the characters and the emotional rollercoaster. The characters, especially Gwen, brought the book to life. Plus, the romance is very good and it had right amount action to give the book a little flavor.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The main premise of the book was solid, and I genuinely enjoyed it. A mafia boss and a hacker he hires - two people who have never met and communicate only by phone. Until one evening when armed intruders break into Gwen’s home and begin threatening her family. Gwen isn’t there at the time, and the only person she can turn to for help is Malice. That’s how they finally meet face to face for the first time.
So why the 3-star rating? Mainly because everything felt too rushed. Malice hears her voice once and is suddenly ready to do absolutely anything for her. It just didn’t feel believable.
The bad guy of the story was fairly predictable as well, although I didn’t entirely expect the hostage drama element. What I missed most was a more organic development of the relationship. I did like the fmc, her sarcasm and sense of humor added charm. Malice, on the other hand, is portrayed as this “big bad wolf,” but I found myself wishing for a deeper exploration of his darker side.
So why the 3-star rating? Mainly because everything felt too rushed. Malice hears her voice once and is suddenly ready to do absolutely anything for her. It just didn’t feel believable.
The bad guy of the story was fairly predictable as well, although I didn’t entirely expect the hostage drama element. What I missed most was a more organic development of the relationship. I did like the fmc, her sarcasm and sense of humor added charm. Malice, on the other hand, is portrayed as this “big bad wolf,” but I found myself wishing for a deeper exploration of his darker side.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A hacker, a mafia man, found family and action.
What more can you even ask for?
This book was AMAZING! I love a good mafia book and when the heroine is the insanely talented hacker who nobody knows who is but she works for the most feared mafia man. I already knew this could only become a new favorite of mine.
This is Shayla Rose's first book in collaboration with Lila Rose and they did an amazing job.
They build not only one incredible hero and heroine but the side characters were on point and made it so much better! I loved all the action we got and the suspense you just knew was right around the corner.
Malice was the dream bookboyfriend we all want
Slightly insane
Possesive
Obsessed
Touch her and d1e
Honestly do I even need to say more?
So if you are looking for your next mafia read with a strong independent heroine then this is your book!
What more can you even ask for?
This book was AMAZING! I love a good mafia book and when the heroine is the insanely talented hacker who nobody knows who is but she works for the most feared mafia man. I already knew this could only become a new favorite of mine.
This is Shayla Rose's first book in collaboration with Lila Rose and they did an amazing job.
They build not only one incredible hero and heroine but the side characters were on point and made it so much better! I loved all the action we got and the suspense you just knew was right around the corner.
Malice was the dream bookboyfriend we all want
Slightly insane
Possesive
Obsessed
Touch her and d1e
Honestly do I even need to say more?
So if you are looking for your next mafia read with a strong independent heroine then this is your book!
May 27, 2026
long awaited and so excited for this release
I have waited kinda impatiently for this book and I was not disappointed. Totally amazing. The character development was great and to see Malice and Gwen’s relationship grow was perfect. I can not wait for more books in this series and I would recommend to anyone that has read this author or is new to this author(s). The story was more developed than some of the other books and it helped. Not that any of the other books were bad or lacking but I feel this book had more details needed and I felt that because of the detail developments all the story lines and plots were fully finished and had a wonderfully satisfying end. This has become my number one by this author and she is already on my rereads list for most of her books. Highly recommend this book.
I have waited kinda impatiently for this book and I was not disappointed. Totally amazing. The character development was great and to see Malice and Gwen’s relationship grow was perfect. I can not wait for more books in this series and I would recommend to anyone that has read this author or is new to this author(s). The story was more developed than some of the other books and it helped. Not that any of the other books were bad or lacking but I feel this book had more details needed and I felt that because of the detail developments all the story lines and plots were fully finished and had a wonderfully satisfying end. This has become my number one by this author and she is already on my rereads list for most of her books. Highly recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely wonderful! Malice and Gwen were just fantastic characters and made such a perfect couple! I loved how feisty and funny Gwen was and such a great sibling/parent to Felix and Amelia! Malice was so protective of his loved ones and everyone feared him except Gwen and her family which I found to be hilarious! Stasia and Greg are included in that as well! Loved the flirty back and forth between them! This had such a great storyline and plenty of action. A lot of wonderful characters! I was captivated from the very beginning and didn’t want it to end! A very enjoyable read that I definitely recommend! This is my honest opinion of this complimentary copy of this book
July 9, 2026
So good!
I loved Max and Gwen together perfect fit! The things I loved about the FMC she was so quirky and fun and all over the place. She loved her family more than anything, she loved fearlessly anyone who was in her inner circle. MMC Max wise complicated, rough passionate hard-core but yet knew exactly what he wanted and that was Gwen. I love that about him. He also loved his family fiercely and he loved her family for accepting who he was and he loved Nguyen more than anything and loved that she loved who he was. This was a great rate. I enjoyed it thoroughly five stars.
I loved Max and Gwen together perfect fit! The things I loved about the FMC she was so quirky and fun and all over the place. She loved her family more than anything, she loved fearlessly anyone who was in her inner circle. MMC Max wise complicated, rough passionate hard-core but yet knew exactly what he wanted and that was Gwen. I love that about him. He also loved his family fiercely and he loved her family for accepting who he was and he loved Nguyen more than anything and loved that she loved who he was. This was a great rate. I enjoyed it thoroughly five stars.
May 16, 2026
This story begins with a scene from **Blaze by Lila, where Gwendolyn an acquaintance of Blaze and a highly skilled dark web hacker is brought in to help retrieve sensitive information for Malice. Trusted for both her talent and discretion, she agrees to the job as part of a deal to help Blaze in return.
From their very first conversation, the chemistry between them is impossible to ignore even through a phone call. Gwendolyn has a habit of saying exactly what’s on her mind, no matter how inappropriate the timing may be, and to her surprise, Malice is more amused than annoyed by her constant rambling.
For Malice, that reaction is unusual. There’s just something about her that immediately captures his attention and keeps pulling him back.
After seeing how skilled and efficient she is, he decides he doesn’t just want her help temporarily he wants her working exclusively for him. And when he presents her with an offer too good to refuse, especially with two younger siblings depending on her, Gwendolyn realizes walking away may no longer be an option.
After a close call that threatens to expose her, Gwendolyn turns to Malice without hesitation and true to his word, he takes care of the problem. Malice protects what he considers his.
When her family is later put in danger and she can’t get to them herself, she once again calls on Malice for help. He reassures her that he’ll handle everything and make sure they’re safe. That moment finally brings them face-to-face, and once Malice sees her in person, he realizes there’s no way he’s letting her out of his sight again.
What follows is the start of a slow-burn, dangerously obsessive relationship filled with tension, shocking revelations, and unexpected twists along the way.
I was so excited to receive an advance copy of this book because I couldn’t wait to dive into Malice and Gwendolyn’s story and Lila and Shayla absolutely delivered.
From their very first conversation, the chemistry between them is impossible to ignore even through a phone call. Gwendolyn has a habit of saying exactly what’s on her mind, no matter how inappropriate the timing may be, and to her surprise, Malice is more amused than annoyed by her constant rambling.
For Malice, that reaction is unusual. There’s just something about her that immediately captures his attention and keeps pulling him back.
After seeing how skilled and efficient she is, he decides he doesn’t just want her help temporarily he wants her working exclusively for him. And when he presents her with an offer too good to refuse, especially with two younger siblings depending on her, Gwendolyn realizes walking away may no longer be an option.
After a close call that threatens to expose her, Gwendolyn turns to Malice without hesitation and true to his word, he takes care of the problem. Malice protects what he considers his.
When her family is later put in danger and she can’t get to them herself, she once again calls on Malice for help. He reassures her that he’ll handle everything and make sure they’re safe. That moment finally brings them face-to-face, and once Malice sees her in person, he realizes there’s no way he’s letting her out of his sight again.
What follows is the start of a slow-burn, dangerously obsessive relationship filled with tension, shocking revelations, and unexpected twists along the way.
I was so excited to receive an advance copy of this book because I couldn’t wait to dive into Malice and Gwendolyn’s story and Lila and Shayla absolutely delivered.
May 19, 2026
Gwen is the guardian to her younger teenage siblings and makes a living as a hacker. She can’t refuse a plea for help from her friend Blaze, to do some work for the Mafia Devil himself, Malice.
A fantastic story as ruthless and scary Malice is intrigued by Gwen’s lack of filter and quick wit. It’s not long before threats and danger come knocking and Malice protects her. Lots of twists, betrayals, action, drama, blended with Gwens funny thoughts and banter.
This is the first book that Lila and Shayla have written together. I definitely hope there are going to be many more.
A fantastic story as ruthless and scary Malice is intrigued by Gwen’s lack of filter and quick wit. It’s not long before threats and danger come knocking and Malice protects her. Lots of twists, betrayals, action, drama, blended with Gwens funny thoughts and banter.
This is the first book that Lila and Shayla have written together. I definitely hope there are going to be many more.
May 19, 2026
A Must Read!
I get so happy when the MMC is not a bully to the FMC and the FMC is smart and capable all on her own. This had all the best of a mafia romance without the pointless and weak FMC. Read this in one day and for the first time in forever I wish it was longer. Still could have done so much with these amazing characters. Love the family dynamics and the friendships along with the main characters. Hope this isn’t the end for these characters. Great job Lola and Shayla you hooked me with this one so don’t stop now!
I get so happy when the MMC is not a bully to the FMC and the FMC is smart and capable all on her own. This had all the best of a mafia romance without the pointless and weak FMC. Read this in one day and for the first time in forever I wish it was longer. Still could have done so much with these amazing characters. Love the family dynamics and the friendships along with the main characters. Hope this isn’t the end for these characters. Great job Lola and Shayla you hooked me with this one so don’t stop now!
May 27, 2026
Her Mafia Man
The moment Malice speaks to Gwen on the phone he knows he has to make her his, she is irreverent and fearless something nobody is with him. It starts with just making her is employee and some becomes wanting to make her his woman. Gwen know everything about Malice and knows she should be terrified but only feels safe with him. When he is there for her family in a crisis they finally meet in person and all bets ate off because Malice is making Gwen his in this dark tale.
The moment Malice speaks to Gwen on the phone he knows he has to make her his, she is irreverent and fearless something nobody is with him. It starts with just making her is employee and some becomes wanting to make her his woman. Gwen know everything about Malice and knows she should be terrified but only feels safe with him. When he is there for her family in a crisis they finally meet in person and all bets ate off because Malice is making Gwen his in this dark tale.
May 28, 2026
3.5 stars
I thought this book lacked details, and story development lacked depth. I loved the sassy dialog for the FMC. Something that bothered me throughout the book was how juvenile the siblings were portrayed. They are 17 and 19, yet the dialog by the MFC and MMC made it seem like they were 7 and 9. No 19 year old boy wants their hair ruffled by his sisters partner. Everuthing felt rushed, the story building was nowhere to be seenn. . I'm not sure I would recommend this book, sure, maybe someone who is new to dark romance, but not to someone who's an avid DR reader.
I thought this book lacked details, and story development lacked depth. I loved the sassy dialog for the FMC. Something that bothered me throughout the book was how juvenile the siblings were portrayed. They are 17 and 19, yet the dialog by the MFC and MMC made it seem like they were 7 and 9. No 19 year old boy wants their hair ruffled by his sisters partner. Everuthing felt rushed, the story building was nowhere to be seenn. . I'm not sure I would recommend this book, sure, maybe someone who is new to dark romance, but not to someone who's an avid DR reader.
June 19, 2026
Gwen is a hacker that takes a job with Malice. She stays anonymous, until her siblings are in trouble one night and she calls Malice for help. He already had feeelings for her before they even met. But, he maneuvers her whole family into his life from that moment forward. I loved Gwens's inner monologue. She was hilarious and genuine. They were both kinda unhinged.
This is more on the lighter side of mafia romance but deals with some dark issues, plot wise. It's funny, good found family story, and great side characters.
**no major ow/om drama. She tried to have a one night stand that didn't happen. His assistant/fb tries to cause issues and he shuts it down real quick.
This is more on the lighter side of mafia romance but deals with some dark issues, plot wise. It's funny, good found family story, and great side characters.
**no major ow/om drama. She tried to have a one night stand that didn't happen. His assistant/fb tries to cause issues and he shuts it down real quick.
July 4, 2026
Mafia/ billionaire MMC/ OW drama/ morally gray MMC/ touch her and die/ workplace romance/ forced proximity/ found family/ slow burn/ HEA
Trigger warning: burglary/ gun use/ violence/ death of a loved one/ murder/ gore/ torture/ mentions of human trafficking/ SA/ abuse
This was cute but it took a while to get going. It took a hot minute for the MCs to physically meet in person but once they did, their relationship took off pretty quickly. The storyline was a bit predictable and there could have been more spice.
Overall, a decent read.
Trigger warning: burglary/ gun use/ violence/ death of a loved one/ murder/ gore/ torture/ mentions of human trafficking/ SA/ abuse
This was cute but it took a while to get going. It took a hot minute for the MCs to physically meet in person but once they did, their relationship took off pretty quickly. The storyline was a bit predictable and there could have been more spice.
Overall, a decent read.
May 20, 2026
Perfection!
Stud Muffin & Absolute Perfection
MALICE is all Alpha Man, Possessive, Sweet and HAF! It's action that has you holding your breath and turning the page with excitement and worry but not wanting it to end so it consumes you until the last page.
I was so excited to read this collaboration by Lila and Shayla! It has the new dark desires & feels by Shayla with the RomCom Dark by Lila! I can not wait to see what is to come next from them.
Stud Muffin & Absolute Perfection
MALICE is all Alpha Man, Possessive, Sweet and HAF! It's action that has you holding your breath and turning the page with excitement and worry but not wanting it to end so it consumes you until the last page.
I was so excited to read this collaboration by Lila and Shayla! It has the new dark desires & feels by Shayla with the RomCom Dark by Lila! I can not wait to see what is to come next from them.
May 20, 2026
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I wasn’t disappointed.
The characters were well-written, the story was cohesive, and the plot flowed smoothly.
I really liked the whole family; Gwendolyn was great—she really didn’t hold back, but that made her interactions with Max all the more funny.
Malice was my kind of guy. He wasn’t afraid of blood, violence, or pain—nor of his love for his doll.
I’ll definitely be happy to read the other characters’ stories.
The characters were well-written, the story was cohesive, and the plot flowed smoothly.
I really liked the whole family; Gwendolyn was great—she really didn’t hold back, but that made her interactions with Max all the more funny.
Malice was my kind of guy. He wasn’t afraid of blood, violence, or pain—nor of his love for his doll.
I’ll definitely be happy to read the other characters’ stories.
May 21, 2026
Another amazing spin-off
I am so excited for another new world to be built. I have read and loved every book by Lila and this is no different. The characters are so well written and the plot is so detailed it sucks you right in. Gwen has so much fire, I absolutely adore her and the way she handles every situation is perfect because she is so relatable. She's awkward, yet fierce and will do everything in her power to protect her family. This book was perfect.
I am so excited for another new world to be built. I have read and loved every book by Lila and this is no different. The characters are so well written and the plot is so detailed it sucks you right in. Gwen has so much fire, I absolutely adore her and the way she handles every situation is perfect because she is so relatable. She's awkward, yet fierce and will do everything in her power to protect her family. This book was perfect.
May 29, 2026
Wow, utterly captivating
I was hooked from page one. I remember Gwen from Henri and Blazes book but seeing her wit and banter on page was laugh out loud funny in a story that covers some truely horrific subjects. To mix and marry the two is a true talent. Lila and Shalas writing styles merge so seamlessly that I really couldn't see who wrote which parts. It was yet again a pleasure to continue this series. An auto buy author for me.
I was hooked from page one. I remember Gwen from Henri and Blazes book but seeing her wit and banter on page was laugh out loud funny in a story that covers some truely horrific subjects. To mix and marry the two is a true talent. Lila and Shalas writing styles merge so seamlessly that I really couldn't see who wrote which parts. It was yet again a pleasure to continue this series. An auto buy author for me.
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