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Villains & Brides #1
The Serpent's Bride
My husband is the man who ruined me. And I can’t stop wanting him.
One reckless night. One stolen moment of freedom.
And one mistake that ruined my life.
He lied about me.
Said I begged.
Said I wanted him.
Said enough to make me unmarriageable, so he could claim me himself.
Now I belong to Leo Moretti.
The man they call The Serpent.
Cold. Untouchable. Ruthless.
My husband.
He owns my name. My future. My body.
And he won’t stop until I give him what he wants.
An heir.
This book features a happy ending, no cheating, and can be read as a standalone novel.
One reckless night. One stolen moment of freedom.
And one mistake that ruined my life.
He lied about me.
Said I begged.
Said I wanted him.
Said enough to make me unmarriageable, so he could claim me himself.
Now I belong to Leo Moretti.
The man they call The Serpent.
Cold. Untouchable. Ruthless.
My husband.
He owns my name. My future. My body.
And he won’t stop until I give him what he wants.
An heir.
This book features a happy ending, no cheating, and can be read as a standalone novel.
371 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
June 3, 2026
3.75 ⭐️.
RTC
RTC
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into this book knowing it's the author's debut book and wow I was not disappointed.
I absolutely devoured this book from start to finish. It completely consumed me in the best possible way, and I could not put it down once I started. The Serpent is the kind of MMC who is dangerous, ruthless, possessive, and completely terrifying to everyone around him — a man who has built his entire life on violence, power, and control. He truly believes he is incapable of love, incapable of softness, and yet the moment she enters his life, everything begins to unravel for him in the most addictive way.
Watching him fall was honestly one of my favorite parts of the story because it happened so intensely and so unexpectedly. He fights it constantly, but despite all his darkness and brutality, he cannot stop himself from protecting what he considers his. His obsession with her becomes all-consuming, and every protective, jealous, possessive moment had me swooning. He may be feared by everyone else, but with her, there are glimpses of vulnerability hidden beneath all that danger, and those moments made his character even more compelling.
What made the romance even better was that the FMC absolutely hates him at first — and honestly, she has every reason to. Their relationship is filled with tension, resentment, emotional conflict, and slow-building trust. She refuses to give in easily, which made every small shift in their relationship feel meaningful. Over time, seeing her begin to understand him, challenge him, and eventually want to protect him too added so much emotional depth to the story. Their dynamic felt raw, messy, passionate, and completely addictive.
One of the things I loved most was the strong sibling relationships throughout the book. The love and loyalty between the siblings added so much heart to the story and balanced out the darker elements perfectly. The Serpent’s relationship with her siblings — especially Sierra — completely melted me. Seeing this feared, dangerous man soften around them, protect them, care for them, and slowly become part of their world made me fall for him even harder. Those moments gave him so much humanity and made the emotional connections in the story feel incredibly genuine.
The atmosphere of the book was also amazing. It had that dark, intense, emotionally charged energy where every interaction feels heavy with meaning. The tension between the characters was incredible, the chemistry was undeniable, and the emotional push-and-pull kept me fully invested the entire time. There were so many moments that had me stressed, swooning, angry, emotional, and completely obsessed all at once.
The only thing that personally bothered me a little was the contrast between the MMC and FMC’s sexual history. In the MMC’s POV, it is mentioned multiple times that he has slept with hundreds of women, while the FMC is a virgin. Normally, that imbalance is something I strongly dislike in romances and would usually be a dealbreaker for me. However, the story itself was so captivating, the characters were so compelling, and the emotional connection between them became so intense that I found myself continuing anyway because I genuinely needed to know what would happen next. Despite that one issue, the chemistry, character development, emotional tension, and possessive romance completely pulled me in.
Overall, this book was dark, emotional, intense, addictive, and full of tension-filled romance that kept me hooked the entire way through. If you love morally grey, dangerously possessive MMCs who would burn the world down for the woman they love, emotional enemies-to-lovers dynamics, strong family bonds, protective instincts, and a romance filled with obsession, loyalty, and vulnerability hidden beneath brutality, then this book is absolutely worth reading.
I cannot wait to devour book two when it is released.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I absolutely devoured this book from start to finish. It completely consumed me in the best possible way, and I could not put it down once I started. The Serpent is the kind of MMC who is dangerous, ruthless, possessive, and completely terrifying to everyone around him — a man who has built his entire life on violence, power, and control. He truly believes he is incapable of love, incapable of softness, and yet the moment she enters his life, everything begins to unravel for him in the most addictive way.
Watching him fall was honestly one of my favorite parts of the story because it happened so intensely and so unexpectedly. He fights it constantly, but despite all his darkness and brutality, he cannot stop himself from protecting what he considers his. His obsession with her becomes all-consuming, and every protective, jealous, possessive moment had me swooning. He may be feared by everyone else, but with her, there are glimpses of vulnerability hidden beneath all that danger, and those moments made his character even more compelling.
What made the romance even better was that the FMC absolutely hates him at first — and honestly, she has every reason to. Their relationship is filled with tension, resentment, emotional conflict, and slow-building trust. She refuses to give in easily, which made every small shift in their relationship feel meaningful. Over time, seeing her begin to understand him, challenge him, and eventually want to protect him too added so much emotional depth to the story. Their dynamic felt raw, messy, passionate, and completely addictive.
One of the things I loved most was the strong sibling relationships throughout the book. The love and loyalty between the siblings added so much heart to the story and balanced out the darker elements perfectly. The Serpent’s relationship with her siblings — especially Sierra — completely melted me. Seeing this feared, dangerous man soften around them, protect them, care for them, and slowly become part of their world made me fall for him even harder. Those moments gave him so much humanity and made the emotional connections in the story feel incredibly genuine.
The atmosphere of the book was also amazing. It had that dark, intense, emotionally charged energy where every interaction feels heavy with meaning. The tension between the characters was incredible, the chemistry was undeniable, and the emotional push-and-pull kept me fully invested the entire time. There were so many moments that had me stressed, swooning, angry, emotional, and completely obsessed all at once.
The only thing that personally bothered me a little was the contrast between the MMC and FMC’s sexual history. In the MMC’s POV, it is mentioned multiple times that he has slept with hundreds of women, while the FMC is a virgin. Normally, that imbalance is something I strongly dislike in romances and would usually be a dealbreaker for me. However, the story itself was so captivating, the characters were so compelling, and the emotional connection between them became so intense that I found myself continuing anyway because I genuinely needed to know what would happen next. Despite that one issue, the chemistry, character development, emotional tension, and possessive romance completely pulled me in.
Overall, this book was dark, emotional, intense, addictive, and full of tension-filled romance that kept me hooked the entire way through. If you love morally grey, dangerously possessive MMCs who would burn the world down for the woman they love, emotional enemies-to-lovers dynamics, strong family bonds, protective instincts, and a romance filled with obsession, loyalty, and vulnerability hidden beneath brutality, then this book is absolutely worth reading.
I cannot wait to devour book two when it is released.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2026
He ruined her life to make her his. Then became the only man she trusted.
Chiara wants one reckless night of freedom before her father hands her future to a man she doesn’t choose. Instead, she meets Leo in the dark, survives a snakebite, and becomes the center of a lie that destroys her name. By morning, the man they call The Serpent has claimed her as his bride.
Leo is ruthless enough to trap her, possessive enough to keep her, and controlled enough to make every touch feel dangerous. Chiara fights him with everything she has, but fear isn’t the only thing growing between them. Desire gets complicated, hatred starts to blur, and the cage he builds becomes harder to understand when he starts protecting wounds no one else saw.
Their marriage begins as a power play, but it shifts when Leo’s enemies realize Chiara matters to him. Secrets, betrayal, violence, and old wounds force them both to face the truth beneath the obsession: he wants to own her, but she may be the one thing that brings him to his knees.
Chiara is sheltered, furious, and terrified of being owned, but desire, grief, and the need for safety complicate survival. Leo is ruthless and possessive, mistaking control for devotion until need cuts through his armor. Together, they move from coercion, fear, and sexual tension into a volatile intimacy shaped by surrender, trust, and chosen devotion.
An ultra-steamy, dark mafia romance filled with enemies to lovers tension, forced proximity, arranged marriage, breeding kink, obsession, dominance, surrender, trauma, and devotion. It explores power, survival, identity, control, trust, sexual awakening, family, fear, and the brutal difference between being possessed and being chosen. It’s about a sheltered woman who refuses to stay broken, a ruthless man who learns that love costs more than control, and a marriage born from ruin that becomes home.
The Elevator Pitch: A sheltered mafia daughter’s stolen night of freedom becomes the trap that binds her to the ruthless heir who destroys her reputation to claim her. Inside his glittering prison, fear and desire sharpen into something far more dangerous as both of them discover how deeply control can mask longing. When family betrayal turns her into his weakness, their forced marriage becomes a brutal test of trust, survival, and chosen devotion.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
Chiara wants one reckless night of freedom before her father hands her future to a man she doesn’t choose. Instead, she meets Leo in the dark, survives a snakebite, and becomes the center of a lie that destroys her name. By morning, the man they call The Serpent has claimed her as his bride.
Leo is ruthless enough to trap her, possessive enough to keep her, and controlled enough to make every touch feel dangerous. Chiara fights him with everything she has, but fear isn’t the only thing growing between them. Desire gets complicated, hatred starts to blur, and the cage he builds becomes harder to understand when he starts protecting wounds no one else saw.
Their marriage begins as a power play, but it shifts when Leo’s enemies realize Chiara matters to him. Secrets, betrayal, violence, and old wounds force them both to face the truth beneath the obsession: he wants to own her, but she may be the one thing that brings him to his knees.
Chiara is sheltered, furious, and terrified of being owned, but desire, grief, and the need for safety complicate survival. Leo is ruthless and possessive, mistaking control for devotion until need cuts through his armor. Together, they move from coercion, fear, and sexual tension into a volatile intimacy shaped by surrender, trust, and chosen devotion.
An ultra-steamy, dark mafia romance filled with enemies to lovers tension, forced proximity, arranged marriage, breeding kink, obsession, dominance, surrender, trauma, and devotion. It explores power, survival, identity, control, trust, sexual awakening, family, fear, and the brutal difference between being possessed and being chosen. It’s about a sheltered woman who refuses to stay broken, a ruthless man who learns that love costs more than control, and a marriage born from ruin that becomes home.
The Elevator Pitch: A sheltered mafia daughter’s stolen night of freedom becomes the trap that binds her to the ruthless heir who destroys her reputation to claim her. Inside his glittering prison, fear and desire sharpen into something far more dangerous as both of them discover how deeply control can mask longing. When family betrayal turns her into his weakness, their forced marriage becomes a brutal test of trust, survival, and chosen devotion.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥 Ultra-Steamy / Erotic Romance
Review of advance copy received from Author
My first book by Quinn Noir and it was… interesting. Very interesting. 👀😂 So interesting, in fact, that now I desperately need book two.
This story throws you straight into a dark, obsessive mafia world where power rules and freedom has a price. Chiara only wants one small taste of freedom before her abusive father marries her off to some old stranger, but instead she walks straight into a nightmare: a snake bite, a mysterious man, and one reckless night that destroys her entire life. Leo Moretti, a.k.a. “The Serpent,” is cold, ruthless, possessive, controlling, and hot 😭 and he just wants Chiara. Their relationship is toxic, obsessive, emotional, with a very interesting power struggle because Leo is obsessed with control… until Chiara starts making him lose it. Interestingly enough, underneath all the ruthlessness, he genuinely takes care of her and her siblings and shows an unexpected tenderness despite his reputation. There’s also a hidden secret behind why Leo needs this marriage so badly, and when the truth finally comes out, Chiara’s world crumbles all over again. Desperate for an escape, she ends up trusting the wrong people… I also loved the side characters, especially Sergio and the siblings, and Sienna (Chiara’s little sister), who added a very interesting emotional layer to the story. Kids see through adults… And I have to say, the repeated use of “interesting” and “very interesting” throughout the book became unintentionally hilarious in the best way because you can literally picture the character mentally spiraling while saying it. 😂 I don’t particularly like the word “breeding,” but interestingly enough, it wasn’t overused and somehow fit Leo’s whole power-and-control personality. 😭
For a debut novel, Quinn Noir seriously came in strong. If you love possessive heroes, forced marriage, obsession, emotional angst, morally gray chaos, and relationships that are equal parts infuriating and irresistible… this book will probably be very interesting to you too. 🔥
Make sure to check trigger warnings before reading.
This story throws you straight into a dark, obsessive mafia world where power rules and freedom has a price. Chiara only wants one small taste of freedom before her abusive father marries her off to some old stranger, but instead she walks straight into a nightmare: a snake bite, a mysterious man, and one reckless night that destroys her entire life. Leo Moretti, a.k.a. “The Serpent,” is cold, ruthless, possessive, controlling, and hot 😭 and he just wants Chiara. Their relationship is toxic, obsessive, emotional, with a very interesting power struggle because Leo is obsessed with control… until Chiara starts making him lose it. Interestingly enough, underneath all the ruthlessness, he genuinely takes care of her and her siblings and shows an unexpected tenderness despite his reputation. There’s also a hidden secret behind why Leo needs this marriage so badly, and when the truth finally comes out, Chiara’s world crumbles all over again. Desperate for an escape, she ends up trusting the wrong people… I also loved the side characters, especially Sergio and the siblings, and Sienna (Chiara’s little sister), who added a very interesting emotional layer to the story. Kids see through adults… And I have to say, the repeated use of “interesting” and “very interesting” throughout the book became unintentionally hilarious in the best way because you can literally picture the character mentally spiraling while saying it. 😂 I don’t particularly like the word “breeding,” but interestingly enough, it wasn’t overused and somehow fit Leo’s whole power-and-control personality. 😭
For a debut novel, Quinn Noir seriously came in strong. If you love possessive heroes, forced marriage, obsession, emotional angst, morally gray chaos, and relationships that are equal parts infuriating and irresistible… this book will probably be very interesting to you too. 🔥
Make sure to check trigger warnings before reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this as an ARC copy from the author. My opinions are my own.
I devoured Serpent’s Wife. Absolutely DEVOURED it. This book grabbed me by the throat from the very first chapter and never let go. Chiara and Leo had the kind of chemistry that feels dangerous — obsessive, addictive, and completely consuming. Every interaction between them crackled with tension, and the slow burn nearly killed me in the best possible way.
Leo is the definition of a terrifyingly irresistible mafia antihero: possessive, jealous, ruthless, and utterly obsessed with Chiara. The “touch her and die” energy was INSANE. And Chiara? I loved her softness and innocence against Leo’s darkness. Watching her navigate this brutal world while their relationship twisted from hatred into obsession was EVERYTHING.
The arranged marriage trope was executed perfectly, and the forced proximity made every scene feel suffocatingly intense. The power dynamics, the emotional manipulation, the possessiveness — it was dark, toxic, and exactly what I wanted from a mafia romance. The tension was so good I felt like I couldn’t breathe half the time.
And the atmosphere? Dark, luxurious, dangerous. Every chapter felt drenched in obsession and temptation. I genuinely could not put this book down and ended up staying awake way too late because I needed to know what happened next.
If you love morally black antiheroes, obsessive love stories, and heroines getting pulled into dangerous worlds they can’t escape from, read this immediately.
✨ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
🌹 Jealous/possessive mafia king
🖤 Arranged/forced marriage
🌹 Enemies to lovers
🖤Innocence × corruption
🌹Age gap
🖤 Touch her and die
🌹 Forced proximity
🖤 Captive heroine vibes
🌹 Slooow burn tension
🖤 “𝑯𝒆 𝒐𝒘𝒏𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆. 𝑴𝒚 𝒇𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆. 𝑴𝒚 𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒑 𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒍 𝑰 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒔. 𝑨𝒏 𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓.” 🌹
I devoured Serpent’s Wife. Absolutely DEVOURED it. This book grabbed me by the throat from the very first chapter and never let go. Chiara and Leo had the kind of chemistry that feels dangerous — obsessive, addictive, and completely consuming. Every interaction between them crackled with tension, and the slow burn nearly killed me in the best possible way.
Leo is the definition of a terrifyingly irresistible mafia antihero: possessive, jealous, ruthless, and utterly obsessed with Chiara. The “touch her and die” energy was INSANE. And Chiara? I loved her softness and innocence against Leo’s darkness. Watching her navigate this brutal world while their relationship twisted from hatred into obsession was EVERYTHING.
The arranged marriage trope was executed perfectly, and the forced proximity made every scene feel suffocatingly intense. The power dynamics, the emotional manipulation, the possessiveness — it was dark, toxic, and exactly what I wanted from a mafia romance. The tension was so good I felt like I couldn’t breathe half the time.
And the atmosphere? Dark, luxurious, dangerous. Every chapter felt drenched in obsession and temptation. I genuinely could not put this book down and ended up staying awake way too late because I needed to know what happened next.
If you love morally black antiheroes, obsessive love stories, and heroines getting pulled into dangerous worlds they can’t escape from, read this immediately.
✨ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
🌹 Jealous/possessive mafia king
🖤 Arranged/forced marriage
🌹 Enemies to lovers
🖤Innocence × corruption
🌹Age gap
🖤 Touch her and die
🌹 Forced proximity
🖤 Captive heroine vibes
🌹 Slooow burn tension
🖤 “𝑯𝒆 𝒐𝒘𝒏𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆. 𝑴𝒚 𝒇𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆. 𝑴𝒚 𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒑 𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒍 𝑰 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒔. 𝑨𝒏 𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓.” 🌹
June 2, 2026
What you want by MeemsAngel82
I LOVED this!! I was enjoying the push and pull between these two leads so much! This is my first time reading this author and I enjoyed the writing style. This is a full book and the characters have so much chemistry! This h was doing the best she could in a male dominating situation while this H made me so incredibly mad at times!
She was sold off to him to please her cruel father. But that wasn't his endgame either. Our H was overwhelmed by what she made him feel. He wasn't used to it and he didn't like it.
And that's where the issue is. You keep at something and what do you want when it happens? He had his own family problems and so did she. But he started out as one more problem and after baiting her so much she succumbed. Then she broke. He wanted her but he played with her and she tried to keep her head up, her pride up. It wasn't easy and he made it hard for her. But he wasn't her dad and the type of monster he was realized he wanted her and her siblings safe and with him. Her own dad did not. She was emotionally spent and he was just waking up. I can forgive him because of his opening up and the way he is with her siblings. The interactions just melted my heart and even though I am so mad at him for wanting his girl but not admitting in what way, I still ended up loving him for her. I could have done without the playboy past but regardless, this was amazing. And I wanted more. Then, then I see that we are going to get more. I was very much hoping for a different pairing in the next book because his guard and her sister is what I am so hoping for. This book was incredible. Steamy, emotional and just made my heart do things. I am so here for more of this author and of this family.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I LOVED this!! I was enjoying the push and pull between these two leads so much! This is my first time reading this author and I enjoyed the writing style. This is a full book and the characters have so much chemistry! This h was doing the best she could in a male dominating situation while this H made me so incredibly mad at times!
She was sold off to him to please her cruel father. But that wasn't his endgame either. Our H was overwhelmed by what she made him feel. He wasn't used to it and he didn't like it.
And that's where the issue is. You keep at something and what do you want when it happens? He had his own family problems and so did she. But he started out as one more problem and after baiting her so much she succumbed. Then she broke. He wanted her but he played with her and she tried to keep her head up, her pride up. It wasn't easy and he made it hard for her. But he wasn't her dad and the type of monster he was realized he wanted her and her siblings safe and with him. Her own dad did not. She was emotionally spent and he was just waking up. I can forgive him because of his opening up and the way he is with her siblings. The interactions just melted my heart and even though I am so mad at him for wanting his girl but not admitting in what way, I still ended up loving him for her. I could have done without the playboy past but regardless, this was amazing. And I wanted more. Then, then I see that we are going to get more. I was very much hoping for a different pairing in the next book because his guard and her sister is what I am so hoping for. This book was incredible. Steamy, emotional and just made my heart do things. I am so here for more of this author and of this family.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I would like to thank the author for trusting me with her book — I was so lucky to be one of her ARC readers. I was desperately searching for a book that could finally pull me out of my reading slump, and this book did exactly that. From the very first chapters, I was completely hooked and unable to put it down.
There are honestly no words to describe how this story made me feel. The characters were written so beautifully and realistically that they felt alive. I laughed with them, hurt with them, and completely fell in love with every part of their journey. It’s rare for a book to make me so emotionally invested, but this one absolutely destroyed me in the best possible way. There were moments when I was genuinely ugly crying, and anyone who knows me knows how rare that is for me while reading.
The chemistry, the emotions, the tension, the heartbreaking moments — everything was done perfectly. Even the side characters stood out so much and added depth to the story. I’m already obsessed with them and cannot wait to read their stories in the future. And Quinn? I can confidently say I am Quinn’s number one fan. That character completely stole my heart.
This book gave me all the feelings I’ve been missing lately when reading. It reminded me why I fell in love with books in the first place. I already know this is going to become one of my ultimate comfort reads, the kind of book I’ll come back to again and again whenever I need something special.
If you’re thinking about picking this book up, do it. You will not regret it.
There are honestly no words to describe how this story made me feel. The characters were written so beautifully and realistically that they felt alive. I laughed with them, hurt with them, and completely fell in love with every part of their journey. It’s rare for a book to make me so emotionally invested, but this one absolutely destroyed me in the best possible way. There were moments when I was genuinely ugly crying, and anyone who knows me knows how rare that is for me while reading.
The chemistry, the emotions, the tension, the heartbreaking moments — everything was done perfectly. Even the side characters stood out so much and added depth to the story. I’m already obsessed with them and cannot wait to read their stories in the future. And Quinn? I can confidently say I am Quinn’s number one fan. That character completely stole my heart.
This book gave me all the feelings I’ve been missing lately when reading. It reminded me why I fell in love with books in the first place. I already know this is going to become one of my ultimate comfort reads, the kind of book I’ll come back to again and again whenever I need something special.
If you’re thinking about picking this book up, do it. You will not regret it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🖤 my review for The Serpent's Bride 🐍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶,5
I loved this book so much!! 371 pages of just perfection!
Chiara and Leo's story is the perfect mafia book! Filled with betrayal, heartbreak, family drama/hurt/abuse, age gap, enemies to lovers, touch her and die, possessiveness, captivity, arranged/forced marriage, hope, love and a delicious slow burn!! 🖤
I was absolutely hooked from the start! I love it when a book just drawn me in and won't let go and this book did exactly that!! So it is worth every single star i gave it.
Never a slow or boring page/chapter. It definitely kept me entertained and wanting for more! Writing was perfect and descriptive!
The main characters was amazing to read about and I loved the side characters! There were banter between Chiara and Leo but also between Chiara and Sergio and I really enjoyed that!
When I finished the book I had smiled, cried, been upset but in the end I was genuinely happy for the MCs.
Leo is everything a Mafia MMC should be. Ruthless, take what he wants, feared by (almost) everyone, controlling but in the end he crumbles for Chiara and only her (and perhaps her adorable little sister Sienna too!).
Chiara was a brave FMC who cared so much for her siblings. She definitely didn't deserve to have a father who treated his children like pawns. She was a fighter but she could also show emotions. Even though her feelings were conflicted sometimes...
A great mafia book through and through!!
A huge thank you to Quinn for gifting me this book! It was an honor to read and review it!! 🥰
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶,5
I loved this book so much!! 371 pages of just perfection!
Chiara and Leo's story is the perfect mafia book! Filled with betrayal, heartbreak, family drama/hurt/abuse, age gap, enemies to lovers, touch her and die, possessiveness, captivity, arranged/forced marriage, hope, love and a delicious slow burn!! 🖤
I was absolutely hooked from the start! I love it when a book just drawn me in and won't let go and this book did exactly that!! So it is worth every single star i gave it.
Never a slow or boring page/chapter. It definitely kept me entertained and wanting for more! Writing was perfect and descriptive!
The main characters was amazing to read about and I loved the side characters! There were banter between Chiara and Leo but also between Chiara and Sergio and I really enjoyed that!
When I finished the book I had smiled, cried, been upset but in the end I was genuinely happy for the MCs.
Leo is everything a Mafia MMC should be. Ruthless, take what he wants, feared by (almost) everyone, controlling but in the end he crumbles for Chiara and only her (and perhaps her adorable little sister Sienna too!).
Chiara was a brave FMC who cared so much for her siblings. She definitely didn't deserve to have a father who treated his children like pawns. She was a fighter but she could also show emotions. Even though her feelings were conflicted sometimes...
A great mafia book through and through!!
A huge thank you to Quinn for gifting me this book! It was an honor to read and review it!! 🥰
Review of advance copy received from Author
As I sit her writing this review, I'm still trying to catch my breath. This is what all Dark Mafia stories should be. Please don't let this be a one and done. This is Chiara and Leo's story. The first by this author and again, I'm just going to say take the plunge. From the first page on, the reader is pulled into the world that doesn't let go. You feel so much for Chiara and her siblings. Each one is so different but so layered that even with the main character the reader feels we've only scratched the surface layers.
Leo is known as the Serpent - also Snakey by Chiara's baby sister. He's dark, dangerous, and takes what he wants. He has built up a tolerance to poison thanks to his father. Protects Chiara and her siblings from their father. Takes care of business, doesn't tolerate mistakes, and takes an eight-year-old to the Zoo without batting an eye. Showing his true feelings to his wife, that's the difficult part. Chiara protects her siblings, sneaks out during a party, gets bit by a snake, saved by Leo, faces down those trying to tear them apart without blinking but is still innocent enough to believe people are good but not naive enough to be played too long. The pit was a perfect touch, and the slow end of Lorenzo was so well deserved. Both the emotion and the business side were equally terrific. I don't normally give out five stars, even for authors I read no matter what. Find a quiet corner, get comfortable, and immerse yourself in this beautifully dark story. I received a copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Leo is known as the Serpent - also Snakey by Chiara's baby sister. He's dark, dangerous, and takes what he wants. He has built up a tolerance to poison thanks to his father. Protects Chiara and her siblings from their father. Takes care of business, doesn't tolerate mistakes, and takes an eight-year-old to the Zoo without batting an eye. Showing his true feelings to his wife, that's the difficult part. Chiara protects her siblings, sneaks out during a party, gets bit by a snake, saved by Leo, faces down those trying to tear them apart without blinking but is still innocent enough to believe people are good but not naive enough to be played too long. The pit was a perfect touch, and the slow end of Lorenzo was so well deserved. Both the emotion and the business side were equally terrific. I don't normally give out five stars, even for authors I read no matter what. Find a quiet corner, get comfortable, and immerse yourself in this beautifully dark story. I received a copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
• 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 5✨
• 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - June 1, 2026
• 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
- dark mafia romance
- arranged marriage
- possessive hero
- forced proximity
- touch her and die
- obsessive MMC
- he falls first
- protective hero
• 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Chiara’s life completely changes after one reckless night brings her face to face with Leo Moretti, the dangerous mafia heir everyone fears. After her reputation is ruined, she is forced into a marriage with the same man who destroyed her life. What starts with anger, tension, and control slowly turns into obsession, protection, and intense love.
Leo was literally the definition of possessive and obsessed. This man was so toxic in the best mafia romance way possible and I loved every second of it. The chemistry between Leo and Chiara was insane from the beginning. Every scene between them had so much tension and emotion. I loved how Chiara still fought back even when Leo tried to control everything around her.
The writing was super addictive and once I started reading, I genuinely could not stop. The dark mafia vibes, the obsession, the jealousy, the forced marriage tension, everything was done so well. Leo being soft only for Chiara made me melt so many times. Their relationship was messy, intense, emotional, and honestly so entertaining to read.
This book gave exactly what I want from a dark mafia romance. Possessive hero, tension filled moments, emotional scenes, and chemistry that keeps getting better with every chapter. I enjoyed this so much.
So excited to read Leo's cousin Santino and Chiara sis Aurora book!!
Thank you author for the ARC!
• 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - June 1, 2026
• 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
- dark mafia romance
- arranged marriage
- possessive hero
- forced proximity
- touch her and die
- obsessive MMC
- he falls first
- protective hero
• 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Chiara’s life completely changes after one reckless night brings her face to face with Leo Moretti, the dangerous mafia heir everyone fears. After her reputation is ruined, she is forced into a marriage with the same man who destroyed her life. What starts with anger, tension, and control slowly turns into obsession, protection, and intense love.
Leo was literally the definition of possessive and obsessed. This man was so toxic in the best mafia romance way possible and I loved every second of it. The chemistry between Leo and Chiara was insane from the beginning. Every scene between them had so much tension and emotion. I loved how Chiara still fought back even when Leo tried to control everything around her.
The writing was super addictive and once I started reading, I genuinely could not stop. The dark mafia vibes, the obsession, the jealousy, the forced marriage tension, everything was done so well. Leo being soft only for Chiara made me melt so many times. Their relationship was messy, intense, emotional, and honestly so entertaining to read.
This book gave exactly what I want from a dark mafia romance. Possessive hero, tension filled moments, emotional scenes, and chemistry that keeps getting better with every chapter. I enjoyed this so much.
So excited to read Leo's cousin Santino and Chiara sis Aurora book!!
Thank you author for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark, Intense, and I Devoured It!
Besties... As someone who will happily pick up another mafia romance without a shred of shame, I knew I had to give "The Serpent's Bride" a chance... and I'm so glad I did. 💯
First of all, that prologue? 😳 Whew. Quinn Noir wasted absolutely no time pulling me into this dark and twisted world. From the very beginning, there was an intensity to the writing that kept me completely on edge, and I found myself turning pages faster and faster just to see what would happen next.
Leo Moretti is the definition of a possessive mafia king. He's controlling, obsessive, ruthless, and wants Chiara at any cost. At times, his obsession felt almost suffocating, which only made the tension between them stronger. And Chiara? I really loved her fire. 🔥 She didn't make things easy for him, and watching her push back against Leo's dominance made their dynamic incredibly compelling.
This is definitely a slow burn, and Chiara genuinely despises Leo for a good portion of the story. But once that tension finally snaps? Besties... the spice was SPICING. 🥵 The chemistry exploded off the page, and Leo's intensity had me completely hooked.
Dark, suspenseful, and packed with emotional tension, "The Serpent's Bride" made me an instant Quinn Noir fan. I cannot wait to see what comes next in this series. 😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3/5
🥀 My ratings and review are my own. For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
Besties... As someone who will happily pick up another mafia romance without a shred of shame, I knew I had to give "The Serpent's Bride" a chance... and I'm so glad I did. 💯
First of all, that prologue? 😳 Whew. Quinn Noir wasted absolutely no time pulling me into this dark and twisted world. From the very beginning, there was an intensity to the writing that kept me completely on edge, and I found myself turning pages faster and faster just to see what would happen next.
Leo Moretti is the definition of a possessive mafia king. He's controlling, obsessive, ruthless, and wants Chiara at any cost. At times, his obsession felt almost suffocating, which only made the tension between them stronger. And Chiara? I really loved her fire. 🔥 She didn't make things easy for him, and watching her push back against Leo's dominance made their dynamic incredibly compelling.
This is definitely a slow burn, and Chiara genuinely despises Leo for a good portion of the story. But once that tension finally snaps? Besties... the spice was SPICING. 🥵 The chemistry exploded off the page, and Leo's intensity had me completely hooked.
Dark, suspenseful, and packed with emotional tension, "The Serpent's Bride" made me an instant Quinn Noir fan. I cannot wait to see what comes next in this series. 😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3/5
🥀 My ratings and review are my own. For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤
June 4, 2026
A fantastic debut novel with a plot that reels you right in! It’s an arranged marriage based on a blatant lie with plenty of little twists thrown in to keep you hooked, villains it is an absolute pleasure to hate and one very hot mafia ruler who needs his reluctant bride to want him because she is driving him out of his mind.
This debut has a lot going on but it feels perfectly paced, all your questions are answered, and there’s an overall genius to the way everything plays out and little details are used to make the story wholly unique. I especially love the way Leo’s nickname is weaved into so much of the story, The Serpent is his past, his present, and his future and it gets represented symbolically as well as literally throughout in a way that really ties everything together well. And speaking of Leo… I’m not gonna lie I am super into him, he is every bit the cold calculating mafia boss he has to be with the perfect soft spot for Chiara who only has to smirk at him and he’s putty in her hands. I did want to throttle Chiara once or twice, though I do get that she’s a mafia princess that had been locked away inside her family estate until her future husband dragged her out so you have to cut her some slack. And for all the awkward and all the forced proximity there truly is something kind of instant and comfortable to Leo and Chiara and by the end you can’t help but really adore the way these two love with The Serpent balancing his dark with all his wife’s light in a genuinely fantastic HEA.
This debut has a lot going on but it feels perfectly paced, all your questions are answered, and there’s an overall genius to the way everything plays out and little details are used to make the story wholly unique. I especially love the way Leo’s nickname is weaved into so much of the story, The Serpent is his past, his present, and his future and it gets represented symbolically as well as literally throughout in a way that really ties everything together well. And speaking of Leo… I’m not gonna lie I am super into him, he is every bit the cold calculating mafia boss he has to be with the perfect soft spot for Chiara who only has to smirk at him and he’s putty in her hands. I did want to throttle Chiara once or twice, though I do get that she’s a mafia princess that had been locked away inside her family estate until her future husband dragged her out so you have to cut her some slack. And for all the awkward and all the forced proximity there truly is something kind of instant and comfortable to Leo and Chiara and by the end you can’t help but really adore the way these two love with The Serpent balancing his dark with all his wife’s light in a genuinely fantastic HEA.
Review of advance copy received from Author
In exchange for an honest review i got to read the ARC version Serpent's Bride by Quinn Noir, by the author.
First of all I have to admit this book is just not for me becuse I think my reader hobbit have shifted and I just lean toward more fluffy tales I think so i want to say no negative against the author since I think this author got great potential to go far with the series she's writing, just not for me.
Chiara is the daughter of a mafia family, her father uses her only as a pawn in his own game of having power within the mafia by that way also buying himself protection by selling and using his daughter in way that is just despicable. One fateful evening Chiara gets bitten by a snake outside her family house in the garden and she's saved by a mysterious man that does not reveal his name at first.
Leo is the head of one of the biggest crime mafia families and his reputation as the snake that poison those who crosses him is told as legend in this town. When he put his eyes on Chiara he knows he want her no matter what to use and controll however he want to even forcing her to produce an heir so he can get his death fathers money that is locked behind a will that hinders him from getting full controll of his estate. With his cousins and family all fighting for it he sees no choice to use Chiara to his own benefit even if he need to use force, hurting her in the prosses.
First of i think this author got great writing skills and the chemistry between the characters is strained and theme is quite dark but I think it got potential to be good the first book is more about Leo and Chiara dancing around each other finding their way trough emotions building a relationship based on a forced marriage that mutters the water between them and for their marriage to survive they have to build that trust that is hard to break when its two broken people that have seen the worst of human beeing can do to someone.
Lastly I want to Thank Quinn Noir for letting me read the book after she posted a post about it on Facebook. This book does come with alot of triggers but I think if you like this kinda story then you should read it.
First of all I have to admit this book is just not for me becuse I think my reader hobbit have shifted and I just lean toward more fluffy tales I think so i want to say no negative against the author since I think this author got great potential to go far with the series she's writing, just not for me.
Chiara is the daughter of a mafia family, her father uses her only as a pawn in his own game of having power within the mafia by that way also buying himself protection by selling and using his daughter in way that is just despicable. One fateful evening Chiara gets bitten by a snake outside her family house in the garden and she's saved by a mysterious man that does not reveal his name at first.
Leo is the head of one of the biggest crime mafia families and his reputation as the snake that poison those who crosses him is told as legend in this town. When he put his eyes on Chiara he knows he want her no matter what to use and controll however he want to even forcing her to produce an heir so he can get his death fathers money that is locked behind a will that hinders him from getting full controll of his estate. With his cousins and family all fighting for it he sees no choice to use Chiara to his own benefit even if he need to use force, hurting her in the prosses.
First of i think this author got great writing skills and the chemistry between the characters is strained and theme is quite dark but I think it got potential to be good the first book is more about Leo and Chiara dancing around each other finding their way trough emotions building a relationship based on a forced marriage that mutters the water between them and for their marriage to survive they have to build that trust that is hard to break when its two broken people that have seen the worst of human beeing can do to someone.
Lastly I want to Thank Quinn Noir for letting me read the book after she posted a post about it on Facebook. This book does come with alot of triggers but I think if you like this kinda story then you should read it.
June 2, 2026
Explosive chemistry is the driving force of this dark romance. The characters, Chiara and Leo, captivate you from the very first chapters with their "she gets angry, he laughs" dynamic.
The book moves at a fast and addictive pace, as the author manages to make the story flow naturally without overwhelming the reader, resulting in a quick finish.
Leo Moretti is a total antihero: possessive, silent, and lethal, generating a captivating obsession from the first moment he sees Chiara.
Chiara, for her part, is a resilient character in almost every sense. Although Leo is highly attractive (from his physique to his words), she manages to resist the rapid development of a crush, though it's not inevitable.
Fighting and fighting to never give in to anyone are qualities I absolutely loved.
In short, if you're looking for a dark, possessive, obsessive protagonist, the kind who would destroy the world for the one he loves... Leo Moretti is definitely for you! ✨
That said, there isn't much family drama or dark mafia stuff, nor any unexpected twists, but the story definitely holds its own perfectly without relying too heavily on these elements. And personally, it's a book that definitely gets you out of a reading slump because it's so easy and quick to connect with the characters.
Excellent debut from the author, and I eagerly await reading more of her books. 🥰
The book moves at a fast and addictive pace, as the author manages to make the story flow naturally without overwhelming the reader, resulting in a quick finish.
Leo Moretti is a total antihero: possessive, silent, and lethal, generating a captivating obsession from the first moment he sees Chiara.
Chiara, for her part, is a resilient character in almost every sense. Although Leo is highly attractive (from his physique to his words), she manages to resist the rapid development of a crush, though it's not inevitable.
Fighting and fighting to never give in to anyone are qualities I absolutely loved.
In short, if you're looking for a dark, possessive, obsessive protagonist, the kind who would destroy the world for the one he loves... Leo Moretti is definitely for you! ✨
That said, there isn't much family drama or dark mafia stuff, nor any unexpected twists, but the story definitely holds its own perfectly without relying too heavily on these elements. And personally, it's a book that definitely gets you out of a reading slump because it's so easy and quick to connect with the characters.
Excellent debut from the author, and I eagerly await reading more of her books. 🥰
June 2, 2026
Dedication:
To the ones who like red flags more than red roses
Leo
His wife was sold to him by her father. Once he gets her, he imprisons her into a room. He is a typical mafia king with a soft spot for poisoning his victims.
Chiara
She was beaten and mistreated by her father and then sold to one of the Mafia five families to become the wife of the Serpent. She says she hates him but has a need to be close to him.
This is a typical mafia book. She gets sold to a psychopath who doesn't know how to do feelings. The Stockholm syndrom embarks and she starts having feelings for him. And him, he gets the touch her and die urge, gets possessive and starts changing but only for her, while at the same time, he kills everyone and everything that looks at her wrong.
Even though it is a typical mafia book, I have to admit that I thoroughly enjoyed this book and once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down.
And the second book? Even though I was disappointed to see that it isn't Sergio's book, to know that it's Santino and Aurora? Color me surprised and intrigued. I can't wait to read it.
And can we get Sergio's book? Please and thank you. I have a soft spot for him. 😇🙏
To the ones who like red flags more than red roses
Leo
His wife was sold to him by her father. Once he gets her, he imprisons her into a room. He is a typical mafia king with a soft spot for poisoning his victims.
Chiara
She was beaten and mistreated by her father and then sold to one of the Mafia five families to become the wife of the Serpent. She says she hates him but has a need to be close to him.
This is a typical mafia book. She gets sold to a psychopath who doesn't know how to do feelings. The Stockholm syndrom embarks and she starts having feelings for him. And him, he gets the touch her and die urge, gets possessive and starts changing but only for her, while at the same time, he kills everyone and everything that looks at her wrong.
Even though it is a typical mafia book, I have to admit that I thoroughly enjoyed this book and once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down.
And the second book? Even though I was disappointed to see that it isn't Sergio's book, to know that it's Santino and Aurora? Color me surprised and intrigued. I can't wait to read it.
And can we get Sergio's book? Please and thank you. I have a soft spot for him. 😇🙏
Review of advance copy received from Author
Overall, this was a good story. The book started off really interesting, and the writing style was very engaging at first. Everything was going well until about the halfway mark, where the story started to feel repetitive. There was a lot of repetition of specific words, phrases, and similar sentences, making it feel almost as if the book was written by two different people.
There were also a few confusing elements in the plot itself - some dialogues and scenes felt like they were missing. I also noticed a couple of timeline inconsistencies. For example,
Despite these editing flaws, it was still an enjoyable dark mafia romance read. If you love the forced marriage trope, it’s worth checking out!
There were also a few confusing elements in the plot itself - some dialogues and scenes felt like they were missing. I also noticed a couple of timeline inconsistencies. For example,
Despite these editing flaws, it was still an enjoyable dark mafia romance read. If you love the forced marriage trope, it’s worth checking out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
The Serpents Bride by @quinnnoirbooks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
This is a debut novel I believe from @quinnnoirbooks and I am so looking forward to seeing what comes next in their author journey because wow there is so much potential.
The Serpents Bride follows the story of Leo aka The Serpent - the mafia boss, head of an empire who needs to produce an heir to gain ultimate control and Chiara daughter of another mafia family. She is slightly naive but protector to her siblings and has sass for days.
What can Leo do to resolve the problems he faces; manipulate everything and force Chiara to marry him really is the only option 😂.
We have family tension, a slow burn relationship, absolute touch her and die vibes, some sweet moments between all the characters and a real sense of found family between the MMC and his second in command. There is a whole lot of things to love.
I would have happily read another 100 pages to allow for some of the more traumatic, messy and complicated relationships and events to be explored in more detail as that would have made this plot just 👌.
A second book is on its way and I look forward to seeing what happens next.
The Serpents Bride by @quinnnoirbooks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
This is a debut novel I believe from @quinnnoirbooks and I am so looking forward to seeing what comes next in their author journey because wow there is so much potential.
The Serpents Bride follows the story of Leo aka The Serpent - the mafia boss, head of an empire who needs to produce an heir to gain ultimate control and Chiara daughter of another mafia family. She is slightly naive but protector to her siblings and has sass for days.
What can Leo do to resolve the problems he faces; manipulate everything and force Chiara to marry him really is the only option 😂.
We have family tension, a slow burn relationship, absolute touch her and die vibes, some sweet moments between all the characters and a real sense of found family between the MMC and his second in command. There is a whole lot of things to love.
I would have happily read another 100 pages to allow for some of the more traumatic, messy and complicated relationships and events to be explored in more detail as that would have made this plot just 👌.
A second book is on its way and I look forward to seeing what happens next.
June 1, 2026
This was a damn good read.
Except for the thing with Chiara, almost towards the end of the book, when I scolded her for being really stupid and that she was, it was very good.
The characters were very well written, the story flowed and the alternation of tension, burning fiery passion, hatred and darkness was well worked out.
It wouldn't hurt Chiara to think a little and communicate more with her surroundings, and not be so fucking naive, but in the end I still liked her because she deserved it.
The serpent, the beautiful streams of blood, the dark cloud, oh, I really enjoyed Leonardo too much ☺️🥵
I really enjoyed all the family members, I will repeat myself for the umpteenth time, but I love big chaotic families that stick together, don't spoil any fun and are able to give each other a few friendly punches in the face, that always adds weight to even a darker book.
For me, it's simply satisfaction and I definitely recommend reading the book, especially to those who like a dark moon like MMC and a fragrant rose with sharp thorns like FMC.
I will be loyal to the writer and I can't wait for her next story.
Except for the thing with Chiara, almost towards the end of the book, when I scolded her for being really stupid and that she was, it was very good.
The characters were very well written, the story flowed and the alternation of tension, burning fiery passion, hatred and darkness was well worked out.
It wouldn't hurt Chiara to think a little and communicate more with her surroundings, and not be so fucking naive, but in the end I still liked her because she deserved it.
The serpent, the beautiful streams of blood, the dark cloud, oh, I really enjoyed Leonardo too much ☺️🥵
I really enjoyed all the family members, I will repeat myself for the umpteenth time, but I love big chaotic families that stick together, don't spoil any fun and are able to give each other a few friendly punches in the face, that always adds weight to even a darker book.
For me, it's simply satisfaction and I definitely recommend reading the book, especially to those who like a dark moon like MMC and a fragrant rose with sharp thorns like FMC.
I will be loyal to the writer and I can't wait for her next story.
June 1, 2026
4.5 ⭐
The Serpent's Bride by Quinn Noir was a really great read! This is Quinn's debut release, and I really enjoyed it. I absolutely love the Mafia genre/trope, so I love finding new authors who write all about that good stuff. I can't wait to read future books by Quinn and have already asked about ARC teams because I'm really excited about the other characters we met in this book. Congratulations on your debut release, Quinn, and phenomenal job!
Leo and Chiara were something else! I really enjoyed getting to know both of them, and I really liked them. Chiara was young, but so strong and brave. She stood up for siblings and took more than she should have. Leo was a hot hot Mafia man, and I loved that he didn't take BS from anyone. He was the BOSS and you knew it. I can't wait to see how he further rules in upcoming books. I am so so excited and I can't wait for the future books. Again, phenomenal job, Quinn!
The Serpent's Bride by Quinn Noir was a really great read! This is Quinn's debut release, and I really enjoyed it. I absolutely love the Mafia genre/trope, so I love finding new authors who write all about that good stuff. I can't wait to read future books by Quinn and have already asked about ARC teams because I'm really excited about the other characters we met in this book. Congratulations on your debut release, Quinn, and phenomenal job!
Leo and Chiara were something else! I really enjoyed getting to know both of them, and I really liked them. Chiara was young, but so strong and brave. She stood up for siblings and took more than she should have. Leo was a hot hot Mafia man, and I loved that he didn't take BS from anyone. He was the BOSS and you knew it. I can't wait to see how he further rules in upcoming books. I am so so excited and I can't wait for the future books. Again, phenomenal job, Quinn!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got an early copy of this book, and this was my first time reading this author. I absolutely loved the characters, and the story pulled me in from start to finish. You could really feel their hurt, hesitation, and protectiveness toward each other throughout the book.
The chemistry between them was written so well from page one — I could feel the sexual tension on every page. The author did such a great job building that connection and making you invested in them right away.
I’m personally a sucker for insta-love, so that aspect didn’t bother me at all. I love books that I can read quickly, fall in love with the characters and the story fast, and enjoy without a drawn-out third-act breakup. This book delivered exactly that for me, and I’m really excited to read the next one in the series.
The chemistry between them was written so well from page one — I could feel the sexual tension on every page. The author did such a great job building that connection and making you invested in them right away.
I’m personally a sucker for insta-love, so that aspect didn’t bother me at all. I love books that I can read quickly, fall in love with the characters and the story fast, and enjoy without a drawn-out third-act breakup. This book delivered exactly that for me, and I’m really excited to read the next one in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really liked the tension and chemistry between Chiara and Leo, and seeing them both fall for each other despite trying so hard not to.
Their initial meeting is intense, with Chiara being saved by a stranger, then learning she is being forced to wed a ruthless enemy and seeing all her fury.
Leo has all the morally grey villainous attitude you'd expect from a mafia heir, he's possessive and controlling, intimidating and violent, but Chiara is his weakness, even if he doesn't realise it yet.
It's dark and toxic, there is plenty of manipulation and danger, and lots of teasing and temptation.
I enjoyed the banter from Leo's right hand man Sergio and how he teases them both, and the protectiveness from Chiara's siblings.
It has great 'hate to love you' energy, lots of family drama and rivalry, and a sweet resolution.
Their initial meeting is intense, with Chiara being saved by a stranger, then learning she is being forced to wed a ruthless enemy and seeing all her fury.
Leo has all the morally grey villainous attitude you'd expect from a mafia heir, he's possessive and controlling, intimidating and violent, but Chiara is his weakness, even if he doesn't realise it yet.
It's dark and toxic, there is plenty of manipulation and danger, and lots of teasing and temptation.
I enjoyed the banter from Leo's right hand man Sergio and how he teases them both, and the protectiveness from Chiara's siblings.
It has great 'hate to love you' energy, lots of family drama and rivalry, and a sweet resolution.
June 2, 2026
What a great read! As soon as I saw the blurb and tropes, i knew this book would be up my alley! It definitely did not disappoint. Forced marriage and mafia tropes were well done. The plot flowed perfectly and did not feel rushed or have any plot holes. The characters were definitely likable. The serpent (MMC Leo) had so many layers to him that you see throughout the book. Were introduced to him as this scary ruthless “monster” but he was way more than that and it was nice to learn about the different layers of him and see his character development. Same thing with the FMC Chiara. She starts off as a little “weak” but has a feisty side of her. Throughout the book you also see her character development into a stronger FMC and even more feisty. Plot to spice ratio was great. Very much looking forward to the next book! 🫶🏻
June 3, 2026
This book - wow! What can I say that will truly describe this book. It captivated me with the emotions, violence and love between Chiara and Leo.
I cannot believe this is Quinn's first ever book. Quinn, you must continue on with your writing, it is phenomenal ♥️
The storyline was focused on Leo who is known as the serpent. He accidentally met Chiara who stumbles into his world and from that moment on, Chiara is all that he can focus on. Chiara is 18 years old but very mature for her age considering what she has gone through.
The storyline was very spicy, emotional and heartbreaking at times. Whilst Leo may be feared by many, he was not feared by Chiara and her younger siblings.
I couldn't put this book down and read it in one day. This is a must read....if you don't read it, you are missing out on a fantastic book!
I cannot believe this is Quinn's first ever book. Quinn, you must continue on with your writing, it is phenomenal ♥️
The storyline was focused on Leo who is known as the serpent. He accidentally met Chiara who stumbles into his world and from that moment on, Chiara is all that he can focus on. Chiara is 18 years old but very mature for her age considering what she has gone through.
The storyline was very spicy, emotional and heartbreaking at times. Whilst Leo may be feared by many, he was not feared by Chiara and her younger siblings.
I couldn't put this book down and read it in one day. This is a must read....if you don't read it, you are missing out on a fantastic book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4,25/5 ⭐️
🖤 Check Tw
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Mafia Romance
🖤 Forced Maririage (and arranged)
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Slow Burn-ish
🖤 Age Gap
🖤 Virgin FMC & Not a virgin MMC (see ❌)
🖤 Possessive MMC
🖤 Multiple red flags
🖤 Great side characters
🖤 Interconnected standalone
🖤 HEA & no cheating or OW drama
❌
* i received an arc for my honest opinion *
🖤 Check Tw
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Mafia Romance
🖤 Forced Maririage (and arranged)
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Slow Burn-ish
🖤 Age Gap
🖤 Virgin FMC & Not a virgin MMC (see ❌)
🖤 Possessive MMC
🖤 Multiple red flags
🖤 Great side characters
🖤 Interconnected standalone
🖤 HEA & no cheating or OW drama
❌
* i received an arc for my honest opinion *
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed Leo & Chiara's story...
Chiara is only 18 & has been abused in her father's home... being sent to marry Leo is not what she wants... or is it??
I enjoyed their getting to know each other, the angst & slow burn tension... I liked Sergio & his part in the book also (he pretty much raised Leo & is like a father to her.
This is Book 1 of the Villains & Brides series. I look forward to the rest of the series!!
Told in a dual 1st person POV.
Spice level: 3/5
*Dark mafia romance
*morally grey
*poisons to kill
*age gap
*arranged marriage
*came from an abusive home
*tortured hero
*breeding kink
Thank you to the author (Quinn Noir) & Booksprout for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Chiara is only 18 & has been abused in her father's home... being sent to marry Leo is not what she wants... or is it??
I enjoyed their getting to know each other, the angst & slow burn tension... I liked Sergio & his part in the book also (he pretty much raised Leo & is like a father to her.
This is Book 1 of the Villains & Brides series. I look forward to the rest of the series!!
Told in a dual 1st person POV.
Spice level: 3/5
*Dark mafia romance
*morally grey
*poisons to kill
*age gap
*arranged marriage
*came from an abusive home
*tortured hero
*breeding kink
Thank you to the author (Quinn Noir) & Booksprout for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
- Arranged marriage
- Mafia
- Virgin FMC
- Breeding kink
- Possessive MMC
This book is a dark mafia romance with a possessive MMC and a younger but feisty FMC.
Leo Moretti knows what he wants, and when he first laid eyes on the oldest Ventura daughter, Chiara, he knew he wanted her. So, what do you do when you want something? Well, if your name is Leo Moretti, you don’t ask, you take.
Being the author’s debut novel, this book was written well and the story was good. Sometimes though, it felt a little repetitive and the author often used the phrase “something in my chest tightened…” “something twisted in my chest…” etc. which at times felt a little too much.
Thank you to the author for letting me be an ARC reader on your book. This is my honest review 📖
- Mafia
- Virgin FMC
- Breeding kink
- Possessive MMC
This book is a dark mafia romance with a possessive MMC and a younger but feisty FMC.
Leo Moretti knows what he wants, and when he first laid eyes on the oldest Ventura daughter, Chiara, he knew he wanted her. So, what do you do when you want something? Well, if your name is Leo Moretti, you don’t ask, you take.
Being the author’s debut novel, this book was written well and the story was good. Sometimes though, it felt a little repetitive and the author often used the phrase “something in my chest tightened…” “something twisted in my chest…” etc. which at times felt a little too much.
Thank you to the author for letting me be an ARC reader on your book. This is my honest review 📖
June 3, 2026
Book 1 of Villains & Brides. And a FANtastic start it is! Look forward to more from this world.
'Now I belong to Leo Moretti.
The man they call The Serpent.
Cold. Untouchable. Ruthless.
My husband.
He owns my name. My future. My body.
And he won’t stop until I give him what he wants.
An heir.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were very complex and compelling and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy the read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'Now I belong to Leo Moretti.
The man they call The Serpent.
Cold. Untouchable. Ruthless.
My husband.
He owns my name. My future. My body.
And he won’t stop until I give him what he wants.
An heir.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were very complex and compelling and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy the read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book overall, especially knowing this is the author’s debut novel. The writing flowed well, and the atmosphere felt dark, immersive, and emotionally tense in a way that pulled me into the story from the beginning. I also loved the mix of glamour, danger, and power dynamics throughout the book.
The characters and emotional tension kept me invested, and the story was entertaining and easy to get lost in. For a first novel, the author honestly did a great job creating such a strong atmosphere and engaging reading experience.
Overall, this was a really strong debut with engaging writing, good pacing, and a story that kept me interested throughout!
The characters and emotional tension kept me invested, and the story was entertaining and easy to get lost in. For a first novel, the author honestly did a great job creating such a strong atmosphere and engaging reading experience.
Overall, this was a really strong debut with engaging writing, good pacing, and a story that kept me interested throughout!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Book Funnel and am voluntarily leaving a review."
.This book was a very easy read and a page turner and I devoured this book in a day.
The relationship between Leo and Chiara is a complicated one, meeting at chance and him lying to get her to marry him.
Been known as a ruthless killer, he does a complete 360's change when it comes to his relationship with Chiara, protecting and keeping her safe even from her father.
This man, maybe seen as difficult at times but one can see the love he has for Chiara especially in the " you touch her you die" vibes.
Enjoyed reading this book and cant wait to read book 2.
.This book was a very easy read and a page turner and I devoured this book in a day.
The relationship between Leo and Chiara is a complicated one, meeting at chance and him lying to get her to marry him.
Been known as a ruthless killer, he does a complete 360's change when it comes to his relationship with Chiara, protecting and keeping her safe even from her father.
This man, maybe seen as difficult at times but one can see the love he has for Chiara especially in the " you touch her you die" vibes.
Enjoyed reading this book and cant wait to read book 2.
June 2, 2026
You may think this is just like any other mafia story but it's not. It's different in the best way. Of course Leo will make you want to slap him a good few times, but what mafia man wouldn't? Chiara is a mafia princess who wants to make a choice of her own, but that choice unexpectedly leads to her ruin. There's a few interconnected stories in here and I liked how they all came to a head. There's lies, deceit, yearning and family history that'll make you understand the world better and realize just how ugly the world could be and how misunderstood some people are. I want more of this world and can't wait for any additional readings from this author.
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