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Death & Devotion #1
Unyielding
As the sister of the most feared man in the city, Valentina De Luca knows exactly what her family’s empire is built on: blood, power, violence. She's spent her life vowing to stay away from its dark underbelly—and everything that comes with it.
Until she meets Sunshine. A dancer with a smile that cuts sharper than any blade.
And what begins as a spontaneous moment in the Velvet Room, the De Luca’s exclusive erotic club, becomes so much more. Something Valentina has no intention of walking away from.
As Valentina is pulled back into the violent underworld she swore off, she’s forced to fight for what’s rightfully hers. And for the first time, she understands exactly what could drive a person to kill…
Until she meets Sunshine. A dancer with a smile that cuts sharper than any blade.
And what begins as a spontaneous moment in the Velvet Room, the De Luca’s exclusive erotic club, becomes so much more. Something Valentina has no intention of walking away from.
As Valentina is pulled back into the violent underworld she swore off, she’s forced to fight for what’s rightfully hers. And for the first time, she understands exactly what could drive a person to kill…
- GenresDark RomanceRomanceLGBT
160 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 3, 2026
Sometimes, girls just do it better 😛
Pre-read:
A spicy sapphic buddy read for the weekend 🤭
Pre-read:
A spicy sapphic buddy read for the weekend 🤭
July 10, 2026
3.25/5🌟
Pretty good honestly, a bit like Wattpad. I adore sunshine. Valentina was a tad bit spoiled and rash ,frankly speaking she would've have gone insane if not for her brother Zane. That man is the epitom of a good man with morals. But Valentina was so bossy sometimes it was hottt. Not half bad for a novella, the writing is not the best but yeah
Pre-read
૮ ˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶ ა
Mafia WlW novella, I'm so excited
Pretty good honestly, a bit like Wattpad. I adore sunshine. Valentina was a tad bit spoiled and rash ,frankly speaking she would've have gone insane if not for her brother Zane. That man is the epitom of a good man with morals. But Valentina was so bossy sometimes it was hottt. Not half bad for a novella, the writing is not the best but yeah
Pre-read
૮ ˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶ ა
Mafia WlW novella, I'm so excited
May 28, 2026
Review of Advanced Reader Copy Received from Author
I’m not usually a dark romance reader, in fact this was my first dark romance that I’ve finished and oh my god. This book was Steamy, sexy and delicious 🔥. All while handling topics of trauma beautifully.
I absolutely adored Sunshine and V, their connection was instantly electric and I was immediately hooked by their natural chemistry.
And to make things better, Leila’s writing style is honestly next level. This book had me turning the pages as fast as I could because I simply couldn’t put it down.
Without any context chapter 14 was satisfying as hell 🔪 IYKYK
So if you are a lover of dark romance and want a sapphic mafia romance that instantly hooks you in. You NEED to pick up this book.
I’m not usually a dark romance reader, in fact this was my first dark romance that I’ve finished and oh my god. This book was Steamy, sexy and delicious 🔥. All while handling topics of trauma beautifully.
I absolutely adored Sunshine and V, their connection was instantly electric and I was immediately hooked by their natural chemistry.
And to make things better, Leila’s writing style is honestly next level. This book had me turning the pages as fast as I could because I simply couldn’t put it down.
Without any context chapter 14 was satisfying as hell 🔪 IYKYK
So if you are a lover of dark romance and want a sapphic mafia romance that instantly hooks you in. You NEED to pick up this book.
June 23, 2026
Sapphic dark mafia romance. SAY LESS!
As an avid dark romance reader and a gay woman, it’s always exciting to see yourself reflected in the media you consume.
And it’s especially exciting when the author themselves is queer, because it adds a layer of authenticity to the representation that I really appreciate.
This novella is a HOT fast paced read that you can zoom through without even realising.
That being said, I’m a slow burn girlie and when it comes to a romance like this having it in novella format just leaves me wishing we had a full length book!
But like I said, it makes for an addictive read so if that’s your thing - give this a go!
And in the mean time, I’ll be looking forward to reading more about this universe!
As an avid dark romance reader and a gay woman, it’s always exciting to see yourself reflected in the media you consume.
And it’s especially exciting when the author themselves is queer, because it adds a layer of authenticity to the representation that I really appreciate.
This novella is a HOT fast paced read that you can zoom through without even realising.
That being said, I’m a slow burn girlie and when it comes to a romance like this having it in novella format just leaves me wishing we had a full length book!
But like I said, it makes for an addictive read so if that’s your thing - give this a go!
And in the mean time, I’ll be looking forward to reading more about this universe!
August 20, 2026
Throughout the entire book, I definitely felt like it was missing something. I liked V and Sunshine, but I wish we had gotten more of their personalities and actually had the chance to watch their relationship develop. The romance moved way too fast for me. I’m all for love at first sight, but I needed more to actually feel their emotional connection. Theres no doubt they had a physcial connection and there was quite a lot spice if thats what youre into!!
Sunshine’s story surrounding her abuse was probably the most emotional part for me, but V felt very distant and I never really felt like I knew her.
The book itself had quite a few grammatical/spelling errors, and the overall felt rushed. I picked this up because I’m ARC reading the second book, Unhinged. Because I committed to reading it, I will, but if I hadn’t signed up to that, I probably wouldn’t continue the series.
Sunshine’s story surrounding her abuse was probably the most emotional part for me, but V felt very distant and I never really felt like I knew her.
The book itself had quite a few grammatical/spelling errors, and the overall felt rushed. I picked this up because I’m ARC reading the second book, Unhinged. Because I committed to reading it, I will, but if I hadn’t signed up to that, I probably wouldn’t continue the series.
June 2, 2026
leila you’ve done it again girl!
May 27, 2026
Unyielding by Leila Thorne is a dark, addictive romance that leans fully into its gritty underworld atmosphere, high tension, and undeniable chemistry. Set around a sex club and the dangerous world surrounding it, the story follows a stripper who finds herself drawn to the last person she should want…Valentina “V” De Luca, the powerful and intimidating sister tied to the criminal underworld.
The chemistry between Sunshine and V is electric from the beginning. Sunshine’s softer, brighter personality clashes perfectly with V’s as she’s possessive, and has a dangerously protective nature. Their dynamic is full of tension, sharp banter, emotional walls, and plenty of spicy moments that make the book impossible to put down.
What makes the story work so well is that beneath all the smut and intensity, there’s real emotional depth. V isn’t just the feared underworld woman everyone sees her as…she’s layered, loyal, and deeply vulnerable underneath the control she tries to maintain. Watching Sunshine slowly break through those walls is one of the strongest parts of the book.
Leila Thorne balances steam, danger, and emotion incredibly well, creating a romance that feels both chaotic and heartfelt. If you enjoy sapphic dark romances with morally grey characters, possessive love interests, criminal underworld drama, and a lot of heat, Unyielding delivers exactly that.
PS: Z her older brother is chefs kiss!! Get you a boss that pays for your education and cares for you like he does.
The chemistry between Sunshine and V is electric from the beginning. Sunshine’s softer, brighter personality clashes perfectly with V’s as she’s possessive, and has a dangerously protective nature. Their dynamic is full of tension, sharp banter, emotional walls, and plenty of spicy moments that make the book impossible to put down.
What makes the story work so well is that beneath all the smut and intensity, there’s real emotional depth. V isn’t just the feared underworld woman everyone sees her as…she’s layered, loyal, and deeply vulnerable underneath the control she tries to maintain. Watching Sunshine slowly break through those walls is one of the strongest parts of the book.
Leila Thorne balances steam, danger, and emotion incredibly well, creating a romance that feels both chaotic and heartfelt. If you enjoy sapphic dark romances with morally grey characters, possessive love interests, criminal underworld drama, and a lot of heat, Unyielding delivers exactly that.
PS: Z her older brother is chefs kiss!! Get you a boss that pays for your education and cares for you like he does.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 3, 2026First and foremost, I would like to thank Leila for trusting me to review this book honestly.
key themes:
⭐️ instalust
⭐️ sapphic mafia
⭐️ dark romance
⭐️ WIDEEEEE open door romance
Immediately, I love Leila's writing style, I found it to be very engaging and enjoyable, although I did find I was getting confused of who's POV I was reading at certain points (that being said, this may just be me). Leila's writing is very well thought out and incredibly detailed - some points in the book I found myself asking questions, which were either immediately answered or answered somewhere else within the reading journey. (no plot holes here !) I found this specific aspect to be particularly impressive and showed me the amount of care that went into writing this novella.
Valentina:
Valentina is evidently a badass bitch :P She's a mafia princess with less of the princess aspect; she definitely gave me more of a baddie with a soft heart vibes. She knows what she wants and knows exactly how to get it. I specifically enjoyed her resistance in giving up on sunshine, knowing sunshine had immense trauma and understanding the internal struggles of trusting and opening up to another lover, but continuously pushing boundaries without ever going too far.
Sunshine:
Sunshine to me came off as a timid but sexy woman, i believe sunshine showed some of the most character development in this novella because by chapter 14 (IYKYK) she had really taken a hold of who she was and what she wanted.
This novella really encapsulated Leila's understanding on writing a novel on trauma, she continuously pushed some boundaries but stayed within realistic standards when it came to reactions and accurate trauma resolution. Leila made the scenes where trauma is discussed and experienced feel accurate to real life. I feel a lot of dark romance books don't quite hit the mark on this like Leila's book did.
The aspects I wasn't a fan of....
This wouldn't be an honest review if I weren't well... honest. Now, this is very much personal preference; I didn't love how they fell in love, which felt almost instantly. I felt as though there could be just a couple more chapters where there is a slight more of a build-up into the characters falling for each other and getting to know each other better, while I understand it's fiction, it just didn't feel real to me. Getting past this aspect though, everything else in the novel was borderline perfect. It's evident that Leila can write a damn good novel.
If you were to take away one thing from my review, it would be to give Leila Thorne's novels a shot! I feel like this is a great place to start dipping your toes into her writing as it is a novella.
key themes:
⭐️ instalust
⭐️ sapphic mafia
⭐️ dark romance
⭐️ WIDEEEEE open door romance
Immediately, I love Leila's writing style, I found it to be very engaging and enjoyable, although I did find I was getting confused of who's POV I was reading at certain points (that being said, this may just be me). Leila's writing is very well thought out and incredibly detailed - some points in the book I found myself asking questions, which were either immediately answered or answered somewhere else within the reading journey. (no plot holes here !) I found this specific aspect to be particularly impressive and showed me the amount of care that went into writing this novella.
Valentina:
Valentina is evidently a badass bitch :P She's a mafia princess with less of the princess aspect; she definitely gave me more of a baddie with a soft heart vibes. She knows what she wants and knows exactly how to get it. I specifically enjoyed her resistance in giving up on sunshine, knowing sunshine had immense trauma and understanding the internal struggles of trusting and opening up to another lover, but continuously pushing boundaries without ever going too far.
Sunshine:
Sunshine to me came off as a timid but sexy woman, i believe sunshine showed some of the most character development in this novella because by chapter 14 (IYKYK) she had really taken a hold of who she was and what she wanted.
This novella really encapsulated Leila's understanding on writing a novel on trauma, she continuously pushed some boundaries but stayed within realistic standards when it came to reactions and accurate trauma resolution. Leila made the scenes where trauma is discussed and experienced feel accurate to real life. I feel a lot of dark romance books don't quite hit the mark on this like Leila's book did.
The aspects I wasn't a fan of....
This wouldn't be an honest review if I weren't well... honest. Now, this is very much personal preference; I didn't love how they fell in love, which felt almost instantly. I felt as though there could be just a couple more chapters where there is a slight more of a build-up into the characters falling for each other and getting to know each other better, while I understand it's fiction, it just didn't feel real to me. Getting past this aspect though, everything else in the novel was borderline perfect. It's evident that Leila can write a damn good novel.
If you were to take away one thing from my review, it would be to give Leila Thorne's novels a shot! I feel like this is a great place to start dipping your toes into her writing as it is a novella.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25⭐️ - 4🌶
☆ Sapphic novella
☆ Mafia romance
☆ Insta lust
☆ Touch her and die
☆ Trauma and revenge
ARC review
Thanks to Leila Thorne for the free copy.
When the author asked for arc readers for a steamy sapphic novella, I knew I wanted in on this, because there definitely isn't enough FF romances out there. I loved this story, but it might have been a bit too insta lusty for my taste.
I remember a video where Leila was freaking out about chapter 14 and, not gonna lie, that was my favorite part of the entire thing. It was the perfect level of gruesome for that revenge. It was extremely satisfying. Loved it.
Finally, I really relished how Sunshine reclaimed her power and worked through her trauma and became stronger for it. I kind of hate that she became fully dependent on Valentina financially, I don't think that's very healthy, but it remains fiction and we're not here to be realistic. Check your triggers before reading and enjoy the ride!
Favorite quotes:
> For those that need to be loved before they can love themselves.
> I wanted to strip this girl bare and not literally. I wanted to see everything that was inside of her, down to her core. I wanted to know how she made that smile reach her eyes each and every time.
> I wanted her to brand me. Surely, I must be ovulating, as I bordered on insanity with these hormones coursing through my body.
> I liked to read these stories, but what I actually craved in all of them wasn’t the physicality; it was the earth-shattering love, longing and possessiveness. I wanted to be consumed and I wanted to consume.
> I wanted her to squeeze harder, to choke me so that every memory of passing out from my past could be erased and replaced by this moment with her, where it was my choice.
> "When you find your everything, you hold onto it with both hands. Even if everything falls apart around you, as long as you have each other, you will find beauty in the darkness."
☆ Sapphic novella
☆ Mafia romance
☆ Insta lust
☆ Touch her and die
☆ Trauma and revenge
ARC review
Thanks to Leila Thorne for the free copy.
When the author asked for arc readers for a steamy sapphic novella, I knew I wanted in on this, because there definitely isn't enough FF romances out there. I loved this story, but it might have been a bit too insta lusty for my taste.
I remember a video where Leila was freaking out about chapter 14 and, not gonna lie, that was my favorite part of the entire thing. It was the perfect level of gruesome for that revenge. It was extremely satisfying. Loved it.
Finally, I really relished how Sunshine reclaimed her power and worked through her trauma and became stronger for it. I kind of hate that she became fully dependent on Valentina financially, I don't think that's very healthy, but it remains fiction and we're not here to be realistic. Check your triggers before reading and enjoy the ride!
Favorite quotes:
> For those that need to be loved before they can love themselves.
> I wanted to strip this girl bare and not literally. I wanted to see everything that was inside of her, down to her core. I wanted to know how she made that smile reach her eyes each and every time.
> I wanted her to brand me. Surely, I must be ovulating, as I bordered on insanity with these hormones coursing through my body.
> I liked to read these stories, but what I actually craved in all of them wasn’t the physicality; it was the earth-shattering love, longing and possessiveness. I wanted to be consumed and I wanted to consume.
> I wanted her to squeeze harder, to choke me so that every memory of passing out from my past could be erased and replaced by this moment with her, where it was my choice.
> "When you find your everything, you hold onto it with both hands. Even if everything falls apart around you, as long as you have each other, you will find beauty in the darkness."
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Unyielding” – Leila Thorne 🖤🌹✨
Thank you to the amazing indie author for sending me a gifted ARC copy of this book! Unyielding releases June 12th, and I was so excited to dive into my very first F/F romance.
This was a solid ⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me.
Mafia romance is one of my favourite romance subgenres, so I was immediately drawn in by the dark, dangerous atmosphere of this story. Add in sapphic romance, found family and plenty of protective energy, and I was hooked.
This dual-POV romance follows Valentina, the sister of one of the city's most powerful mafia figures, and Sunshine, a dancer who completely changes her world. Their relationship takes centre stage as Valentina begins questioning everything she thought she knew about herself and what she wants from life.
One of my favourite aspects of the book was the touch-her-and-die energy. The devotion, loyalty, and fierce protectiveness between the two FMCs made for some really enjoyable moments. I also loved the found family elements woven throughout the story.
That said, there were a few things that didn't fully work for me. Maybe it's just me, but some of the sweeter nicknames felt a little over the top, and I struggled at times with the insta-love aspect of the romance. I also found Valentina's softness and naivety a little difficult to reconcile with the world she grew up in.
Even so, I had a great time with this one. The mafia setting, high emotional stakes, and sapphic romance made for a compelling read, and I was invested in seeing how everything unfolded.
If you love:
• F/F romance
• Dual POV
• Bi-awakening stories
• Mafia romance
• Touch her and die
• Found family
• Protective love interests
• Indie romance
...then Unyielding is definitely worth adding to your TBR. 🖤
Thank you to the amazing indie author for sending me a gifted ARC copy of this book! Unyielding releases June 12th, and I was so excited to dive into my very first F/F romance.
This was a solid ⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me.
Mafia romance is one of my favourite romance subgenres, so I was immediately drawn in by the dark, dangerous atmosphere of this story. Add in sapphic romance, found family and plenty of protective energy, and I was hooked.
This dual-POV romance follows Valentina, the sister of one of the city's most powerful mafia figures, and Sunshine, a dancer who completely changes her world. Their relationship takes centre stage as Valentina begins questioning everything she thought she knew about herself and what she wants from life.
One of my favourite aspects of the book was the touch-her-and-die energy. The devotion, loyalty, and fierce protectiveness between the two FMCs made for some really enjoyable moments. I also loved the found family elements woven throughout the story.
That said, there were a few things that didn't fully work for me. Maybe it's just me, but some of the sweeter nicknames felt a little over the top, and I struggled at times with the insta-love aspect of the romance. I also found Valentina's softness and naivety a little difficult to reconcile with the world she grew up in.
Even so, I had a great time with this one. The mafia setting, high emotional stakes, and sapphic romance made for a compelling read, and I was invested in seeing how everything unfolded.
If you love:
• F/F romance
• Dual POV
• Bi-awakening stories
• Mafia romance
• Touch her and die
• Found family
• Protective love interests
• Indie romance
...then Unyielding is definitely worth adding to your TBR. 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
4⭐ ARC Review 'Unyielding'
🩸 Artist / Dancer
🩸 Sapphic
🩸 Opposites Attract
🩸 Instalove
🩸 Mafia Princess
🩸 Trauma & Healing
🩸 Bi Awakening
🩸 Found Family
Awakening sapphic mafia novella with a bad azz FMC. Kicking off the Death & Devotion series, and it did not disappoint!!
Valentino, sister to the ruthless De Luca family, finds herself at her best friends night out at their family's exclusive erotic club.
What she see's before her she can not take her eyes off or let alone walk away. She's transfixed by this beautiful Sunshine right before her.
Intrigue, obsession overtake her thoughts. Feelings she has never before felt, especially with the opposite sex.
Sunshine is a dancer who works at the Velvet. Unknown to her that Valentino is a relation to the club at all. She also feels a instant connection. Underlying, past traumas and abuse, Sunshine's fears and self worth unfortunately take center stage.
This is a story of revenge, finding healing, to take back control. Passion, love and self awareness and acceptance. To embrace found family and a new life that's deserving.
Great banter between all these characters.
The opposite traits of Val and Sunshine complemented each other very well. And the spice was spicing 🌶️🔥
Writing style and storyline was a fantastic.
I can't wait for more to come in this series and to learn more about the brothers 🖤
🩸 Artist / Dancer
🩸 Sapphic
🩸 Opposites Attract
🩸 Instalove
🩸 Mafia Princess
🩸 Trauma & Healing
🩸 Bi Awakening
🩸 Found Family
Awakening sapphic mafia novella with a bad azz FMC. Kicking off the Death & Devotion series, and it did not disappoint!!
Valentino, sister to the ruthless De Luca family, finds herself at her best friends night out at their family's exclusive erotic club.
What she see's before her she can not take her eyes off or let alone walk away. She's transfixed by this beautiful Sunshine right before her.
Intrigue, obsession overtake her thoughts. Feelings she has never before felt, especially with the opposite sex.
Sunshine is a dancer who works at the Velvet. Unknown to her that Valentino is a relation to the club at all. She also feels a instant connection. Underlying, past traumas and abuse, Sunshine's fears and self worth unfortunately take center stage.
This is a story of revenge, finding healing, to take back control. Passion, love and self awareness and acceptance. To embrace found family and a new life that's deserving.
Great banter between all these characters.
The opposite traits of Val and Sunshine complemented each other very well. And the spice was spicing 🌶️🔥
Writing style and storyline was a fantastic.
I can't wait for more to come in this series and to learn more about the brothers 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
Have you ever been disappointed by a man and thought to yourself “a woman wouldn’t do this?” - then read this book.
Are you queer and wanting a HOT, DANGEROUS, SPICY dark romance? Then read this book.
Have you not yet experienced a gay/bi awakening? Well you’re about to .. when you read this book.
‼️🚨 a trigger warning was left out from this book: you may be left entirely unsatisfied by men after reading this 🚨‼️
This is EVERYTHING I want from a dark romance and more.
I didn’t want this to end! This was the perfect novella to sit and read in one sitting and get entirely swept up in Val’s &
Sunshine’s story.
What to expect:
🌶️ Mutual and consensual intimacy that is still SPICY, DIRTY AND KINKY AF🥵
🥀 Obsession, yearning, fixation, possessive whilst also ✨respectful✨
❤️🩹 Trauma healing
🏡 Found family
🩷 For the praise kink girlies / words of affirmation lovers
🖤 Vibes: Dark, dangerous, tense, sexy with a healthy dose of healing and femnine nurture.. 😍
🔪 The most satisfying depiction of feminine rage you’ve ever seen UGHHH👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
PRAYING FOR THE NEXT BOOK TO BE ABOUT ZADDY ZADE🥵
Are you queer and wanting a HOT, DANGEROUS, SPICY dark romance? Then read this book.
Have you not yet experienced a gay/bi awakening? Well you’re about to .. when you read this book.
‼️🚨 a trigger warning was left out from this book: you may be left entirely unsatisfied by men after reading this 🚨‼️
This is EVERYTHING I want from a dark romance and more.
I didn’t want this to end! This was the perfect novella to sit and read in one sitting and get entirely swept up in Val’s &
Sunshine’s story.
What to expect:
🌶️ Mutual and consensual intimacy that is still SPICY, DIRTY AND KINKY AF🥵
🥀 Obsession, yearning, fixation, possessive whilst also ✨respectful✨
❤️🩹 Trauma healing
🏡 Found family
🩷 For the praise kink girlies / words of affirmation lovers
🖤 Vibes: Dark, dangerous, tense, sexy with a healthy dose of healing and femnine nurture.. 😍
🔪 The most satisfying depiction of feminine rage you’ve ever seen UGHHH👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
PRAYING FOR THE NEXT BOOK TO BE ABOUT ZADDY ZADE🥵
Review of advance copy received from Author
I will be completely honest, outside of fanfiction I haven’t read a dark romance. But when I saw Leila was coming (😉) out with one I knew I had to sign up to ARC read!
This book was everything my little heart wanted out of an FF mafia romance!
Let's start with Valentina, V, my badass artist queen! V was giving all the best parts of the dark and twisted I want. Despite being a bit further removed from your families dark dealings V is still a strong, incredibly passionate woman. Who lets be honest would definitely cut a b**ch!
V then meets our other FMC Sunshine! Sunshine is exactly as it sounds. Despite having so much trauma she is just the ray of sunshine to light up V’s world.
These two were not only freaking adorable falling in love, gosh they were spicy 🥵 too 🤣 When Leila says that door is wide open she is not kidding!
Leila has no right to write a book as freaking incredible as this! Do yourself the favour and preorder this book!
P.S. Chapter 14 is unhinged AF and I need everyone to read it to understand why my face went from 🤔 to 🫨😱😧
This book was everything my little heart wanted out of an FF mafia romance!
Let's start with Valentina, V, my badass artist queen! V was giving all the best parts of the dark and twisted I want. Despite being a bit further removed from your families dark dealings V is still a strong, incredibly passionate woman. Who lets be honest would definitely cut a b**ch!
V then meets our other FMC Sunshine! Sunshine is exactly as it sounds. Despite having so much trauma she is just the ray of sunshine to light up V’s world.
These two were not only freaking adorable falling in love, gosh they were spicy 🥵 too 🤣 When Leila says that door is wide open she is not kidding!
Leila has no right to write a book as freaking incredible as this! Do yourself the favour and preorder this book!
P.S. Chapter 14 is unhinged AF and I need everyone to read it to understand why my face went from 🤔 to 🫨😱😧
Review of advance copy received from Author
* ARC REVIEW *
I finished this in one setting and desperately wanted it to be longer! I wish I could have slowed down with the characters and really dig deep into each scene and would have happily read this story as a ‘full length’ novel!
I loved the way both trauma and ptsd were tackled with care and compassion as well as leading into healthy bdsm discussions and how this can look for consenting couples. I think Leila did a great job in showing different sides of a traditional dom/sub relationship and digging deeper into the underlying reasons people might gravitate towards these.
I did at times feel like both POV’s were similar and it was hard to distinguish between whose it was and I found the instalove a little hard to understand as it’s not usually a trope I read.
I am super excited to continue this series! ❤️
I finished this in one setting and desperately wanted it to be longer! I wish I could have slowed down with the characters and really dig deep into each scene and would have happily read this story as a ‘full length’ novel!
I loved the way both trauma and ptsd were tackled with care and compassion as well as leading into healthy bdsm discussions and how this can look for consenting couples. I think Leila did a great job in showing different sides of a traditional dom/sub relationship and digging deeper into the underlying reasons people might gravitate towards these.
I did at times feel like both POV’s were similar and it was hard to distinguish between whose it was and I found the instalove a little hard to understand as it’s not usually a trope I read.
I am super excited to continue this series! ❤️
May 30, 2026
Unyielding
ARC review
Forget slow burn this was pure fast flames and hot as hell. 🔥🔥🔥
Some times I find with novellas there is a rush to get the story and the spice in that it jumps and starts to not make sense. I did not find that with Unyielding. While it was faced pace and the timeline could have been weeks or months you still got a full story and learnt about each character.
Valentina is the badass mafia princess with the heart of an artist, only willing to stand on the sideline but still holding all the power and control of her life.
Sunshine is the sweet soul desperate for love and devotion but may be a little too damaged to accept it because of her broken past.
We also learn about the brothers Zane and Xavier who I hope we get a full story on later. Especially Zane I need to know more about him cos the bait was dangled so well.
To think this book stemmed from a “more or less” true story and then took on its own form shows the storytelling skills of Leila Thorne.
Something requested of us ARC readers was to film our reaction to the end of chapter 14. I did this and well I may have you worked out because I sorta saw it coming. Now I found it hilarious what you did, which may say more about me than you 😂
Overall great story, great characters, great elements and I am excited for more.
ARC review
Forget slow burn this was pure fast flames and hot as hell. 🔥🔥🔥
Some times I find with novellas there is a rush to get the story and the spice in that it jumps and starts to not make sense. I did not find that with Unyielding. While it was faced pace and the timeline could have been weeks or months you still got a full story and learnt about each character.
Valentina is the badass mafia princess with the heart of an artist, only willing to stand on the sideline but still holding all the power and control of her life.
Sunshine is the sweet soul desperate for love and devotion but may be a little too damaged to accept it because of her broken past.
We also learn about the brothers Zane and Xavier who I hope we get a full story on later. Especially Zane I need to know more about him cos the bait was dangled so well.
To think this book stemmed from a “more or less” true story and then took on its own form shows the storytelling skills of Leila Thorne.
Something requested of us ARC readers was to film our reaction to the end of chapter 14. I did this and well I may have you worked out because I sorta saw it coming. Now I found it hilarious what you did, which may say more about me than you 😂
Overall great story, great characters, great elements and I am excited for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🖤UNYIELDING
🖤BY LEILA THORNE
🖤⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🖤🌶️🌶️🌶️
🖤dual pov
🖤dark romance
🖤found family
🖤Bi awakening
🖤touch her and die
🖤Instalove
🖤novella
This was a fast paced, spicy dark romance that had me hooked from the start. It was sexy, sultry, and packed with good storyline of protection, healing, and a little fuck around and find out thrown in for good measure. Because once she became her sunshine and her everything, anyone who dared hurt her everything had better believe their comeuppance would come in the worst way possible.
Watching their connection deepen was great. She helped her heal by replacing every bad memory with new ones, and that was everything to her .The perfect balance of passion, devotion, protection, and healing wrapped up in one sexy addiction
🖤BY LEILA THORNE
🖤⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🖤🌶️🌶️🌶️
🖤dual pov
🖤dark romance
🖤found family
🖤Bi awakening
🖤touch her and die
🖤Instalove
🖤novella
This was a fast paced, spicy dark romance that had me hooked from the start. It was sexy, sultry, and packed with good storyline of protection, healing, and a little fuck around and find out thrown in for good measure. Because once she became her sunshine and her everything, anyone who dared hurt her everything had better believe their comeuppance would come in the worst way possible.
Watching their connection deepen was great. She helped her heal by replacing every bad memory with new ones, and that was everything to her .The perfect balance of passion, devotion, protection, and healing wrapped up in one sexy addiction
June 14, 2026
So we all know how men written by women are *chefs kiss*... Well now thank you to Leila Thorne and her character V from her new novella Unyielding, I have been introduced to an entirely new standard for love interests, women written by women! And let me tell you, it is lucky that I am a happily married woman or any potential future love interests would have no chance of measuring up to V and the respect, devotion and protectiveness she shows towards Sunshine.
Some things I love about Unyielding: the work environment and benefits Z has set up for his workers, the eye contact between V and Sunshine when they first met and of course the torture scene (I was literally giggling like a psycho).
5 star read! I can't wait to see what Leila writes next!
Some things I love about Unyielding: the work environment and benefits Z has set up for his workers, the eye contact between V and Sunshine when they first met and of course the torture scene (I was literally giggling like a psycho).
5 star read! I can't wait to see what Leila writes next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Darkness, depravity, bloodlust and so. Much. Spice 🥵🥵🥵🥵 that’s what awaits you between the pages of Leila’s second novel! I adored her debut; and this is an OBSESSION. 😍😍😍
Fast paced and jam packed with an amazing story, this is a book about reclaiming yourself, finding love and family. Even in the face of darkness.
Next I need to know where one can find themselves a Valentina? For me, not a friend 🤭🤭 because that woman is 🥵🥵🥵
Sapphic fans you gotta add this novella to your 2026 TBR! It’s one you don’t want to miss!
Thank you so much Leila, for once again trusting me with your words and stories. 🥹🥹🥹
Fast paced and jam packed with an amazing story, this is a book about reclaiming yourself, finding love and family. Even in the face of darkness.
Next I need to know where one can find themselves a Valentina? For me, not a friend 🤭🤭 because that woman is 🥵🥵🥵
Sapphic fans you gotta add this novella to your 2026 TBR! It’s one you don’t want to miss!
Thank you so much Leila, for once again trusting me with your words and stories. 🥹🥹🥹
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC
This was a fun sapphic novella style romance, the first book in the Death and Devotion series and it is a good time! The spice is chefs kiss, there is plot and character development, what's not to love
We meet Valentina who is out for a fun night, dodging being married off, when she meets Sunshine and it is instant attraction.
Sunshine has a history and hiding from it, with Vs help she is able to feel safe again
And I have to mention the end of chapter 14 👏 👏 👏 yes, is it weird to say, I wish I was there haha
I can't wait for this whole series, its going to be 🔥 with a shmeks club and Vs many brothers, I have a feeling things will be entertaining in the books that follow
This was a fun sapphic novella style romance, the first book in the Death and Devotion series and it is a good time! The spice is chefs kiss, there is plot and character development, what's not to love
We meet Valentina who is out for a fun night, dodging being married off, when she meets Sunshine and it is instant attraction.
Sunshine has a history and hiding from it, with Vs help she is able to feel safe again
And I have to mention the end of chapter 14 👏 👏 👏 yes, is it weird to say, I wish I was there haha
I can't wait for this whole series, its going to be 🔥 with a shmeks club and Vs many brothers, I have a feeling things will be entertaining in the books that follow
Review of advance copy received from Author
WOMAN - WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?!
I loved every single second of this! And the constant comments that were sent to the author as I read it kinda speaks for itself on how much I loved this. I fell in love with the characters instantly and the only thing I am mad about is that the book wasn't longer.
The pacing was perfect, the interactions of the characters were amazing, and chapter 14.... PERFECTION!!!! (But please be warned that chapter 14 is veeeeeeeeeeeery questionable and I am now questioning Leila's mental state after writing that....)
Deffs something for FF Mafia Dark Romance lovers. I cannot wait for the next book!
I loved every single second of this! And the constant comments that were sent to the author as I read it kinda speaks for itself on how much I loved this. I fell in love with the characters instantly and the only thing I am mad about is that the book wasn't longer.
The pacing was perfect, the interactions of the characters were amazing, and chapter 14.... PERFECTION!!!! (But please be warned that chapter 14 is veeeeeeeeeeeery questionable and I am now questioning Leila's mental state after writing that....)
Deffs something for FF Mafia Dark Romance lovers. I cannot wait for the next book!
May 31, 2026
*I received this book as an arc*
Wow, what a whirlwind! This book throws you straight into it and I loved it for that! The fast romance between the two FMCs were everything!
I really loved how gentle V was with Sunshine, making sure she was okay and helping her through her trauma at every opportunity. I have never wanted a couple in a book to work out more than these two!
I had seen Leila mention something big happens in Chapter 14, and wow I didn’t expect that to turn so graphic! Honestly great job writing it!
I cannot wait for the rest of this series and to hopefully learn more about V’s brothers!
Wow, what a whirlwind! This book throws you straight into it and I loved it for that! The fast romance between the two FMCs were everything!
I really loved how gentle V was with Sunshine, making sure she was okay and helping her through her trauma at every opportunity. I have never wanted a couple in a book to work out more than these two!
I had seen Leila mention something big happens in Chapter 14, and wow I didn’t expect that to turn so graphic! Honestly great job writing it!
I cannot wait for the rest of this series and to hopefully learn more about V’s brothers!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was my first fkn sapphic dark romance, and all I have to say is where the hell has this been all my life? I am officially obsessed and desperately need more FF romance recommendations immediately.
This book is short, fast-paced, spicy, dark, intense, and easy to devour in one sitting. It packs so much into such a small page count, and still manages to make you deeply care about the characters. I loved the exploration of trauma, PTSD, and the messy, complicated ways people learn to survive and heal. There was torture, emotional vulnerability, and characters trying to come to terms with who they are after everything they've endured.
And umm about Z and Xav- can I have thme both at the same time, pls and thanks.
One thing I particularly appreciate in darker romances that deal with abuse is seeing a genuine understanding of control and agency. Recovery isn't linear, and trauma doesn't simply disappear once you're safe. Sometimes it lingers like a phantom limb, you know you're no longer in danger, but your body and mind haven't quite caught up yet. I thought this book handled those themes surprisingly well, especially considering how short it is. The characters were given space to reclaim themselves and reshape their pain into something they could live with, and that emotional depth made me far more invested than I ever expected to be.
This book really was delicious, unexpectedly heartfelt, and the perfect introduction to sapphic dark romance. Safe to say, I've been converted.
This book is short, fast-paced, spicy, dark, intense, and easy to devour in one sitting. It packs so much into such a small page count, and still manages to make you deeply care about the characters. I loved the exploration of trauma, PTSD, and the messy, complicated ways people learn to survive and heal. There was torture, emotional vulnerability, and characters trying to come to terms with who they are after everything they've endured.
And umm about Z and Xav- can I have thme both at the same time, pls and thanks.
One thing I particularly appreciate in darker romances that deal with abuse is seeing a genuine understanding of control and agency. Recovery isn't linear, and trauma doesn't simply disappear once you're safe. Sometimes it lingers like a phantom limb, you know you're no longer in danger, but your body and mind haven't quite caught up yet. I thought this book handled those themes surprisingly well, especially considering how short it is. The characters were given space to reclaim themselves and reshape their pain into something they could live with, and that emotional depth made me far more invested than I ever expected to be.
This book really was delicious, unexpectedly heartfelt, and the perfect introduction to sapphic dark romance. Safe to say, I've been converted.
June 12, 2026
ARC REVIEW
If you love high-stakes mafia romance but have been dying for a top-tier FF couple, Unyielding completely delivers.
Leila Thorne has crafted such an addictive, dark world with Unyielding. Taking some classic tropes from Mafia Romance into an FF novella made this purposefully impossible to put down.
The chemistry between the leads is incredibly intense and is built up almost immediately.
Because it’s a novella, the pacing is quick and lethal, but the emotional stakes still land beautifully. It's safe to say I'm completely hooked and need whatever Leila writes next in this world!
If you like steamy, dangerous, and fast-paced… this one’s for you!
If you love high-stakes mafia romance but have been dying for a top-tier FF couple, Unyielding completely delivers.
Leila Thorne has crafted such an addictive, dark world with Unyielding. Taking some classic tropes from Mafia Romance into an FF novella made this purposefully impossible to put down.
The chemistry between the leads is incredibly intense and is built up almost immediately.
Because it’s a novella, the pacing is quick and lethal, but the emotional stakes still land beautifully. It's safe to say I'm completely hooked and need whatever Leila writes next in this world!
If you like steamy, dangerous, and fast-paced… this one’s for you!
October 29, 2026
Oh my god, this book had me in an absolute chokehold! 😍🔥 From the moment I started reading, I was completely hooked. The tension, the chemistry, the obsession and the deliciously dark moments were everything I love about dark romance!
The characters had me completely invested, and the chemistry between them was absolutely insane. I loved the possessiveness, the intensity and the way the tension just kept building. And can we talk about the spice?! 🥵🔥 It was seriously on point!
What I loved most was how addictive this book was. I kept telling myself just one more chapter, but we all know how that goes! 😂 I honestly didn’t want to put it down.
The characters had me completely invested, and the chemistry between them was absolutely insane. I loved the possessiveness, the intensity and the way the tension just kept building. And can we talk about the spice?! 🥵🔥 It was seriously on point!
What I loved most was how addictive this book was. I kept telling myself just one more chapter, but we all know how that goes! 😂 I honestly didn’t want to put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨️ARC REVIEW✨️
HOT, HOT, HOT!
This is fast-paced, steamy, sexy, finger licking delicious; an FF Mafia Romance and it did NOT disappoint!
Oh my goodness, did I sit here and question my sexual orientation...YES, yes I did!
I loved V and Sunshine's dynamics, they are fierce and adorable. There is trauma and healing (Revenge is best served...bloody 😈)
Rebuilding something beautiful from the dark. They have an all or nothing kinda of love, they are 'everything' to one another.
This was a great read and I can't wait to see what's next...
HOT, HOT, HOT!
This is fast-paced, steamy, sexy, finger licking delicious; an FF Mafia Romance and it did NOT disappoint!
Oh my goodness, did I sit here and question my sexual orientation...YES, yes I did!
I loved V and Sunshine's dynamics, they are fierce and adorable. There is trauma and healing (Revenge is best served...bloody 😈)
Rebuilding something beautiful from the dark. They have an all or nothing kinda of love, they are 'everything' to one another.
This was a great read and I can't wait to see what's next...
July 23, 2026
This was my first sapphic/FF read and wow… I get it now.
The chemistry? Immediate but somehow still feels inevitable.
The tension? Consuming.
We’re talking:
* constant touch like they need each other to breathe
* biting + possessive affection
* that unhinged “touch her and die” energy
It’s soft, it’s dangerous, it’s obsessive in the best way.
Also… Zane???
Why is he giving main character energy and stealing scenes like that?? I need more immediately.
If you like your romance a little dark, very intense, and completely wrapped up in devotion, this one will get under your skin.
The chemistry? Immediate but somehow still feels inevitable.
The tension? Consuming.
We’re talking:
* constant touch like they need each other to breathe
* biting + possessive affection
* that unhinged “touch her and die” energy
It’s soft, it’s dangerous, it’s obsessive in the best way.
Also… Zane???
Why is he giving main character energy and stealing scenes like that?? I need more immediately.
If you like your romance a little dark, very intense, and completely wrapped up in devotion, this one will get under your skin.
Review of advance copy received from Author
From the moment Valentina meets Sunshine, the connection is electric charged with tension, curiosity, and an undeniable pull that only grows stronger. Their dynamic is magnetic, filled with sharp banter, lingering looks, and moments that simmer just beneath the surface before finally boiling over.
What really stood out was how the spice never felt forced it was woven naturally into the story, building alongside the emotional connection and the high-stakes world they’re caught in.
What really stood out was how the spice never felt forced it was woven naturally into the story, building alongside the emotional connection and the high-stakes world they’re caught in.
June 13, 2026
What a delicious, steamy read with amazing chemistry between both the fmc's. I loved that Valentina did everything she could to help Sunshine (namazzi) get through her trauma.
Valentinas brother Xavier and Zane were equally protective of her and loved that they helped her get payback on her horrible ex.
Favourite scene was the dinner where she starts describing the scene in the book she was reading 🤣
'My little ray of Sunshine'
Valentinas brother Xavier and Zane were equally protective of her and loved that they helped her get payback on her horrible ex.
Favourite scene was the dinner where she starts describing the scene in the book she was reading 🤣
'My little ray of Sunshine'
May 25, 2026
ARC
A short and incredibly spicy novella with dark themes and a beautiful FF romance written by an Australian author. Mafia/crime boss vibes and “touch her and die” tropes, this was an easy read up until some intense scenes toward the end. All content warnings accounted for, so you know what’s to be expected.
A short and incredibly spicy novella with dark themes and a beautiful FF romance written by an Australian author. Mafia/crime boss vibes and “touch her and die” tropes, this was an easy read up until some intense scenes toward the end. All content warnings accounted for, so you know what’s to be expected.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this from start to finish, couldn't put it down.
⭐️ Mutual obsession
⭐️ Mafia family
⭐️ Trauma
⭐️ Spice
⭐️ Revenge
⭐️ Found family
⭐️ Spice
⭐️ Strong sexy FMC's
⭐️ Did I mention spice?
I cannot wait for more....add to your TBR now. You can never have to much sunshine in your life 💛
⭐️ Mutual obsession
⭐️ Mafia family
⭐️ Trauma
⭐️ Spice
⭐️ Revenge
⭐️ Found family
⭐️ Spice
⭐️ Strong sexy FMC's
⭐️ Did I mention spice?
I cannot wait for more....add to your TBR now. You can never have to much sunshine in your life 💛
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