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Velella
Secrets are essential for survival.
Carina Caruso learned this as a child. Now, living far from family, under an assumed name, anything approaching a ‘normal’ existence feels impossible. Retreating into music as a violinist in Chicago’s symphony orchestra, she remains hidden on the periphery of her own life.
Only one secret is exclusively hers … and his name is Lev Sokolov. Mysterious and undeniably dangerous, he’s her closest confidant—and, if he knew her real identity—her most formidable adversary.
When Carina’s father breaks a sacred promise, upending the careful balance she’s struggled to maintain, she retaliates in a desperate attempt to change his decision. Armed with stolen leverage, she runs from everyone and everything that once protected her…
But how far, or fast, can you run from those you also run to?
Carina Caruso learned this as a child. Now, living far from family, under an assumed name, anything approaching a ‘normal’ existence feels impossible. Retreating into music as a violinist in Chicago’s symphony orchestra, she remains hidden on the periphery of her own life.
Only one secret is exclusively hers … and his name is Lev Sokolov. Mysterious and undeniably dangerous, he’s her closest confidant—and, if he knew her real identity—her most formidable adversary.
When Carina’s father breaks a sacred promise, upending the careful balance she’s struggled to maintain, she retaliates in a desperate attempt to change his decision. Armed with stolen leverage, she runs from everyone and everything that once protected her…
But how far, or fast, can you run from those you also run to?
418 pages, Paperback
Published July 28, 2026
About the author
C.W. Farnsworth
47 books5,881 followersC.W. Farnsworth is the author of numerous adult and young adult romance novels featuring sports, strong female leads, and happy endings.
Charlotte lives in Rhode Island and when she isn’t writing spends her free time reading, at the beach, or snuggling with her Australian Shepherd.
Find her on Facebook (@cwfarnsworth), Twitter (@cw_farnsworth), Instagram (@authorcwfarnsworth) and check out her website www.authorcwfarnsworth.com for news about upcoming releases!
Charlotte lives in Rhode Island and when she isn’t writing spends her free time reading, at the beach, or snuggling with her Australian Shepherd.
Find her on Facebook (@cwfarnsworth), Twitter (@cw_farnsworth), Instagram (@authorcwfarnsworth) and check out her website www.authorcwfarnsworth.com for news about upcoming releases!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 302 reviews
July 29, 2026
i inhaled it in one sitting, absolutely loved it.
August 9, 2026
This author’s writing just works for me. Every book of theirs pulls me in, and this one was no different. I was completely engrossed from start to finish and ended up inhaling it in a single sitting because I simply couldn’t put it down. The characters were compelling, and the story kept me invested throughout. My only real gripe is the romance. I felt like the book relied a little too much on telling me how deep the connection was instead of letting me experience it. A few more intimate glimpses of their past together, along with a better look at their future, would have made the emotional payoff even stronger.
Even so, I had a great time with this. I can already see the potential for this world to grow beyond this story, and I hope the author explores it further. I’ll happily pick up whatever they write next.
Even so, I had a great time with this. I can already see the potential for this world to grow beyond this story, and I hope the author explores it further. I’ll happily pick up whatever they write next.
Read
August 1, 2026I'm no stranger to mafia romances, and I've enjoyed C.W. Farnsworth's books before—but the combination of her writing and the mafia genre was absolutely fantastic.
I had such a great time with Velella.
What I loved most was the connection between the main characters. Their chemistry was fantastic from the very beginning, and their dynamic immediately gave me major Heated Rivalry vibes—which, if you've followed me for a while, you know is one of the highest compliments I can give a romance.
Reading this book also reminded me why I've enjoyed C.W. Farnsworth's writing in the past. The story flowed effortlessly, the banter kept me turning the pages, and I was invested in the characters from start to finish.
If you're a fan of mafia romance with fantastic chemistry and characters you can't help but root for, you definitely need to give Velella a try.
I had such a great time with Velella.
What I loved most was the connection between the main characters. Their chemistry was fantastic from the very beginning, and their dynamic immediately gave me major Heated Rivalry vibes—which, if you've followed me for a while, you know is one of the highest compliments I can give a romance.
Reading this book also reminded me why I've enjoyed C.W. Farnsworth's writing in the past. The story flowed effortlessly, the banter kept me turning the pages, and I was invested in the characters from start to finish.
If you're a fan of mafia romance with fantastic chemistry and characters you can't help but root for, you definitely need to give Velella a try.
July 31, 2026
“What if I wanted to sleep with someone else? Hypothetically?”
“I would kill him. Literally.”🔝🔝
“I would kill him. Literally.”🔝🔝
August 1, 2026
𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ ── pre-read
cw has quickly become one of my auto read authors this year, esp after reading two second chance books from her 🙂↕️ this one is a bit different, but i know it'll be amazing!! her writing is so addictive and bingeable <3
tropes
- romeo juliet / forbidden relationship
- mafia romance
- rival families
- "my wife"
- on the run
out now
thank you c.w. for the e-arc
cw has quickly become one of my auto read authors this year, esp after reading two second chance books from her 🙂↕️ this one is a bit different, but i know it'll be amazing!! her writing is so addictive and bingeable <3
tropes
- romeo juliet / forbidden relationship
- mafia romance
- rival families
- "my wife"
- on the run
out now
thank you c.w. for the e-arc
August 2, 2026
DNF. in love with each other since they were teens and yet, are nothing more than occasional fuck buddies for 12 YEARS.
AND they sleep with other people. the only reason they actually get together is cuz she needed a marriage for protection 🥴
AND they sleep with other people. the only reason they actually get together is cuz she needed a marriage for protection 🥴
Read
July 18, 2026July 28th is today!
I’m savoring this piece by piece
a Romeo and Juliet inspired mafia romance story
🍒 fmc running away from an arranged marriage
🍒 he falls first
🍒 forbidden, opposing side romance
🍒 childhood strangers to lovers to enemies
pre-read
First ever personal widget arc from the publisher! I am glad it’s C.w farnsworth. Your first is special and Farnsworth, you pop my cherry 🍒
The cover is sweet and demure and I can’t wait to be surprised by the opposite dark vibe of its contents.
I’m savoring this piece by piece
a Romeo and Juliet inspired mafia romance story
🍒 fmc running away from an arranged marriage
🍒 he falls first
🍒 forbidden, opposing side romance
🍒 childhood strangers to lovers to enemies
pre-read
First ever personal widget arc from the publisher! I am glad it’s C.w farnsworth. Your first is special and Farnsworth, you pop my cherry 🍒
The cover is sweet and demure and I can’t wait to be surprised by the opposite dark vibe of its contents.
Did Not Finish
September 7, 2026DNF @ 41%
The premise is interesting and not like your typical mafia books but I don’t feel the connection between the two main characters because wdym they’re in a situationship for over a decade and you want me to believe the love they have for each other is real?
It’s so easy for him to toss her away and ditches her and the thoughts of her never even crosses on his mind, not before he finds out about her real identity. If it isn’t because of what happens to the revelation of her real identity, he’s not even going to look for her anymore.
And of course I can’t say the same about the fmc because of course she’s always thinking about him. Mind you the last time she sees him, he’s with another woman and then he goes MIA and decides to cut her out completely from his life.
Long story short, apart from the opening chapter (which is fun and intriguing btw) I’m bored out of my mind and reading the mmc’s chapters especially, feels so bland and boring. Just like him as a whole character.
Also they are both with other people during their situationship. Another reason why I’m not even going to attempt finishing this.
The premise is interesting and not like your typical mafia books but I don’t feel the connection between the two main characters because wdym they’re in a situationship for over a decade and you want me to believe the love they have for each other is real?
It’s so easy for him to toss her away and ditches her and the thoughts of her never even crosses on his mind, not before he finds out about her real identity. If it isn’t because of what happens to the revelation of her real identity, he’s not even going to look for her anymore.
And of course I can’t say the same about the fmc because of course she’s always thinking about him. Mind you the last time she sees him, he’s with another woman and then he goes MIA and decides to cut her out completely from his life.
Long story short, apart from the opening chapter (which is fun and intriguing btw) I’m bored out of my mind and reading the mmc’s chapters especially, feels so bland and boring. Just like him as a whole character.
Also they are both with other people during their situationship. Another reason why I’m not even going to attempt finishing this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2026
The most addicting book I’ve read all summer—I literally could not put it down!
I went into this book no clue what I was getting and found the most beautiful, passion filled love story that had action, twists, family drama, and so much suspense. It’s one of those books you finish and immediately want to read it all over again books.
In Velella, we meet Carina, a talented violinist in Chicago’s symphony orchestra, and Lev Lincoln (Lincoln like the car, not the President ). Lev is dark, broody, mysterious, and the absolute definition of “touch her and ☠️” vibe. After a chance encounter one summer, they spend twelve years trapped in a cycle of silent love, intense yearning, and stolen single nights—with Lev desperately trying to keep her shielded from his dark world.
Think Romeo and Juliet meets a high stakes arranged marriage type of love story.
I went into this book no clue what I was getting and found the most beautiful, passion filled love story that had action, twists, family drama, and so much suspense. It’s one of those books you finish and immediately want to read it all over again books.
In Velella, we meet Carina, a talented violinist in Chicago’s symphony orchestra, and Lev Lincoln (Lincoln like the car, not the President ). Lev is dark, broody, mysterious, and the absolute definition of “touch her and ☠️” vibe. After a chance encounter one summer, they spend twelve years trapped in a cycle of silent love, intense yearning, and stolen single nights—with Lev desperately trying to keep her shielded from his dark world.
Think Romeo and Juliet meets a high stakes arranged marriage type of love story.
July 30, 2026
Not My Favorite
This is one of my least favorite books by C.W. I was pretty bored reading this. I didnt believe the love between Carina and Lev. They met up once or twice a year to sleep together and he'd leave before she woke up. What was there to love? This book was pretty long, which is annoying because I feel like there were some unresolved issue that were presented, mainly the maid, what of her musical career and whether they'll have kids. The book felt like there was a lot going on, but not enough at the same time. I often go back to read C.W.'s books a few times. That won't happen with this book.
This is one of my least favorite books by C.W. I was pretty bored reading this. I didnt believe the love between Carina and Lev. They met up once or twice a year to sleep together and he'd leave before she woke up. What was there to love? This book was pretty long, which is annoying because I feel like there were some unresolved issue that were presented, mainly the maid, what of her musical career and whether they'll have kids. The book felt like there was a lot going on, but not enough at the same time. I often go back to read C.W.'s books a few times. That won't happen with this book.
August 4, 2026
I immediately want to start it all over again.
September 25, 2026
This book could have been so good, but it ruined a great premise with a bland execution. I saw another review call it, "Heated Rivalry meets Romeo and Juliet." That's kind of the basic premise, and it sounded so good, sign me up for that! But it flopped.
Carina and Lev are both nearly 30. They're from rival mafia families, and they've had a situationship for 12 years. For over a decade, they've been randomly but regularly hooking up, and nobody knows. I love a secret relationship, I love angst, I love when characters have to sneak around. I love when the relationship is casual for longer than a "normal" casual relationship, because they don't have the option of making it serious. I love when the book makes you wonder, "how will they ever make this work?"
And this served none of that.
First of all, they didn't even know that they were from rival mafia families until far into the book. That made no sense, and it took away a lot of the impact of those plot points. They each had their own reasons for having the secret relationship and sneaking around - but you're telling me they've known each other for TWELVE YEARS, and they've never addressed why the other person is doing it? Most people wouldn't be fine with 12 years of a casual relationship with little communication, and no talk of taking it to the next level. How has it never come up, for each of them to find out why the other is doing it? This would have been so much better if they were mutually aware of each other's positions in the mafia, and they were aware of WHY the other person was in this strange relationship. In both Heated Rivalry and Romeo and Juliet, everyone in the couples was aware of why the relationships were secret, and aware of the their partner's circumstance!
They were both too passive. He was ready to walk away from her for good, in an underwhelming scene. The only reason he pursued her was because the plot forced him into it. They were both too reactive, rather than active.
The emotional depth also just wasn't there. There were flashbacks to points in their relationship, but they felt surface level. Both of them lacked personality besides "she loves music" and "he's Russian and good at being in the mafia." I wasn't drawn in. It should have felt epic and angsty, but it just felt bland. It didn't hold my attention, instead of feeling emotionally invested, I often felt bored.
This is my first book from this author. I'm seeing people say she's good, I have my doubts. Maybe I'll try another book from her eventually, maybe this one is a dud, but I don't feel the need to rush out and try one.
Carina and Lev are both nearly 30. They're from rival mafia families, and they've had a situationship for 12 years. For over a decade, they've been randomly but regularly hooking up, and nobody knows. I love a secret relationship, I love angst, I love when characters have to sneak around. I love when the relationship is casual for longer than a "normal" casual relationship, because they don't have the option of making it serious. I love when the book makes you wonder, "how will they ever make this work?"
And this served none of that.
First of all, they didn't even know that they were from rival mafia families until far into the book. That made no sense, and it took away a lot of the impact of those plot points. They each had their own reasons for having the secret relationship and sneaking around - but you're telling me they've known each other for TWELVE YEARS, and they've never addressed why the other person is doing it? Most people wouldn't be fine with 12 years of a casual relationship with little communication, and no talk of taking it to the next level. How has it never come up, for each of them to find out why the other is doing it? This would have been so much better if they were mutually aware of each other's positions in the mafia, and they were aware of WHY the other person was in this strange relationship. In both Heated Rivalry and Romeo and Juliet, everyone in the couples was aware of why the relationships were secret, and aware of the their partner's circumstance!
They were both too passive. He was ready to walk away from her for good, in an underwhelming scene. The only reason he pursued her was because the plot forced him into it. They were both too reactive, rather than active.
The emotional depth also just wasn't there. There were flashbacks to points in their relationship, but they felt surface level. Both of them lacked personality besides "she loves music" and "he's Russian and good at being in the mafia." I wasn't drawn in. It should have felt epic and angsty, but it just felt bland. It didn't hold my attention, instead of feeling emotionally invested, I often felt bored.
This is my first book from this author. I'm seeing people say she's good, I have my doubts. Maybe I'll try another book from her eventually, maybe this one is a dud, but I don't feel the need to rush out and try one.
September 29, 2026
Carina and Lev are endgame. 😩
July 21, 2026
Thank you to C.W. Farnsworth for this ARC!
This was such an addictive and exciting mafia romance. It’s not usually my go to genre, but I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it.
I really loved the dynamic between the characters and their development throughout the story was great. There were also a few twists that completely caught me off guard.
The banter and chemistry between Carina and Lev were my favorite parts. I especially loved that Carina was the only person who could stand up to Lev, talk back to him and even be a little bossy and sassy, and he accepted and liked that about her. Their relationship felt balanced despite the power dynamics.
The yearning and longing between them were so well done and it was clear they would both risk everything for each other.
Overall, this was an engaging, emotional and surprisingly enjoyable read. If you’re looking for a mafia romance with great character development, strong chemistry and unexpected twists, I’d definitely recommend it.
This was such an addictive and exciting mafia romance. It’s not usually my go to genre, but I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it.
I really loved the dynamic between the characters and their development throughout the story was great. There were also a few twists that completely caught me off guard.
The banter and chemistry between Carina and Lev were my favorite parts. I especially loved that Carina was the only person who could stand up to Lev, talk back to him and even be a little bossy and sassy, and he accepted and liked that about her. Their relationship felt balanced despite the power dynamics.
The yearning and longing between them were so well done and it was clear they would both risk everything for each other.
Overall, this was an engaging, emotional and surprisingly enjoyable read. If you’re looking for a mafia romance with great character development, strong chemistry and unexpected twists, I’d definitely recommend it.
September 19, 2026
ts couple were having sex for 12 years on and off thats all my explaination
August 20, 2026
i really enjoyed this author’s approach. it often feels like this type of romance requires to be explicit and salacious, and although there was still on-page violence and sex, this didn’t feel vulgar. in fact, it was very quiet and peaceful, despite the chaotic events occurring. that dissonance paired with how the story unfolded in which the majority of important events to their relationship were not shown on page and rather the reader is only privy to the precursor or the aftermath, made the romance feel more special because you literally experience how protective they are of their secret trysts. really sweet and felt so genuine, which is not something i often witness in this subgenre.
August 17, 2026
this was so so good!!
July 30, 2026
I loved this book. I didn’t want to put it down. The book is told in two POVs, and both Lev and Carina’s POVs were equally as engaging. Even the flashback chapters that gave more insight into the 12 years they’ve known each other added a nice touch to the story, showing us vs. simply telling us about the history they shared. Each of their families were pretty dynamic, and if Charlotte ever decided to expand this standalone into a series and follow anyone else, I’d be first in line to read it. I don’t normally seek out mafia books, but if any others are as good as Velella, I just might need to start reading that genre more.
I read this one directly after finishing the final book in Charlotte’s Kluvberg soccer romance series, and this one is definitely different, but still contains everything I love about her books and writing. I liked that there were a few little twists in the story, and at one point it felt like normally a book would be coming to a climax and could start winding down after that, but I was only about halfway through! This left a lot of room for more character development and story building, which made the book that much more fun to read. Carina and Lev’s relationship develops satisfyingly, and I really loved their dynamic together. It’s also very much so an adult book, not a new adult book, with the characters being in their late twenties, which was refreshing to read instead of characters who are typically in their early twenties - Carina is 28, and Lev is 29. Their siblings are mostly within a few years of them, too.
The only thing I wish would’ve been explored a little bit more was - trying to keep this as spoiler free as possible - Nico’s motivations for wanting to have Carina in his possession. I understand the power grab, but especially later on in the story, I’m curious why he does what he does. Plus I did think Carina would acquire another violin of her own at some point, although her skills are brought up a few other times later in the book even after it’s more of a focal point more towards the beginning. To find out what I mean, I guess you’ll just have to read the book!
Overall, this was a great read, and I’m sad it’s over - I wish I could read it again for the first time. Special thanks to Charlotte for providing me with an early copy to review. Velella is out now!
I read this one directly after finishing the final book in Charlotte’s Kluvberg soccer romance series, and this one is definitely different, but still contains everything I love about her books and writing. I liked that there were a few little twists in the story, and at one point it felt like normally a book would be coming to a climax and could start winding down after that, but I was only about halfway through! This left a lot of room for more character development and story building, which made the book that much more fun to read. Carina and Lev’s relationship develops satisfyingly, and I really loved their dynamic together. It’s also very much so an adult book, not a new adult book, with the characters being in their late twenties, which was refreshing to read instead of characters who are typically in their early twenties - Carina is 28, and Lev is 29. Their siblings are mostly within a few years of them, too.
The only thing I wish would’ve been explored a little bit more was - trying to keep this as spoiler free as possible - Nico’s motivations for wanting to have Carina in his possession. I understand the power grab, but especially later on in the story, I’m curious why he does what he does. Plus I did think Carina would acquire another violin of her own at some point, although her skills are brought up a few other times later in the book even after it’s more of a focal point more towards the beginning. To find out what I mean, I guess you’ll just have to read the book!
Overall, this was a great read, and I’m sad it’s over - I wish I could read it again for the first time. Special thanks to Charlotte for providing me with an early copy to review. Velella is out now!
August 17, 2026
I knew that a book from C.W. Farnsworth would take me out of my reading slump. There is not one book of her I don’t love. Immediately 5 stars, this was so good and also different from other mafia books I loved it.
I read it one setting that didn’t happen for so long I love this 🤍
I read it one setting that didn’t happen for so long I love this 🤍
July 29, 2026
a mafia romance with depth
I’m in love!!!!
Every new book by C.W. Farnsworth introduces me to my new favorite couple. Carina and Lev, though an unlikely match, are absolutely delectable.
C.W. Farnsworth has a writing style that makes certain tropes I’m not usually drawn to approachable and enjoyable for me. First it was billionaire romances (I love the Kensington family!!), and now it’s mafia! I love how Lev is from an influential Russian mafia family with ties all over the world. The way he navigates all types of situations across multiple countries really shows the power he and his family hold.
Carina is a very interesting and complex character. Though Lev has the secondary POV throughout the story, it takes longer to get a complete picture of Carina and her background. Every time I formed an opinion about who she was, I was shown the error of my ways.
I am so titillated by this book. The story immediately pulled me in, and I finished it in an afternoon. C.W. Farnsworth is absolutely an autobuy author for me. I don’t care what the tropes are. Her books are magic, and I’m here for it.
Thank you so much to C.W. Farnsworth for the opportunity to read and review this book as an e-ARC.
I’m in love!!!!
Every new book by C.W. Farnsworth introduces me to my new favorite couple. Carina and Lev, though an unlikely match, are absolutely delectable.
C.W. Farnsworth has a writing style that makes certain tropes I’m not usually drawn to approachable and enjoyable for me. First it was billionaire romances (I love the Kensington family!!), and now it’s mafia! I love how Lev is from an influential Russian mafia family with ties all over the world. The way he navigates all types of situations across multiple countries really shows the power he and his family hold.
Carina is a very interesting and complex character. Though Lev has the secondary POV throughout the story, it takes longer to get a complete picture of Carina and her background. Every time I formed an opinion about who she was, I was shown the error of my ways.
I am so titillated by this book. The story immediately pulled me in, and I finished it in an afternoon. C.W. Farnsworth is absolutely an autobuy author for me. I don’t care what the tropes are. Her books are magic, and I’m here for it.
Thank you so much to C.W. Farnsworth for the opportunity to read and review this book as an e-ARC.
July 31, 2026
This book reminded me why the hell I love reading. Lev and Carina were EVERYTHING and I fear no couple will be topping them anytime soon. I didn't want this book to end which is something I almost never say about a book or an ARC! Charlotte's writing deserves so much more love!!! She is one of my most favourite authors because the way she writes the angst, the history, the banter, the passion... it's EVERYTHING!!!
If you trust one book rec from me this year... make it Velella.
If you trust one book rec from me this year... make it Velella.
June 10, 2026
Beta read review: it’s perfect. If there’s still time to sign up for the ARC, run.
August 5, 2026
This was so gritty and propulsive I could not put it down. This is not a tropey or glamorized mafia romance I am used to seeing. Lev and Carina are addicted to each other, the one vice they allow themselves, but there are so many secrets between them and they hold each other at arm's length for most of it. That slow, guarded quality to their relationship won't be for everyone but it absolutely wrecked me.
July 18, 2026
5 🌟
First and foremost I would like to express how grateful I am to have been given the opportunity to read Velella before its release, thank you thank you thank you!
The last time I enjoyed a mafia romance this much was when I read Pretty Ugly Promises by C.W. Farnsworth herself. It’s hard to come across a book in this genre that doesn’t make me want to scream and tear my hair out in a negative way. Velella is proof that you can write a book with a dark romance aspect without making the mmc a misogynistic tool who disrespects and abuses the fmc and excuses it because that’s “what dark romance is about” when it absolutely is not and a lot of authors and readers have forgotten that, so thank you C.W. Farnsworth for remedying that!
I liked that Carina, who grew up sheltered from the mafia lifestyle wasn’t naive about it. She’s a confident and intelligent woman living her life with as much normalcy as possible as the “forgotten daughter” but still being aware of the dangers coming from that side of her world. When her freedom was threatened she didn’t sit and wait for help that wouldn’t come, her only savior at that point was herself and she fled knowing the consequences . She had to learn to be independent but I loved that when Lev came into the picture she was able to let her guard down and trust that he would keep her safe. I could appreciate the fact that Lev didn’t view that as weakness, and while taking on the role of her protector he still saw the fighter in her and worked with her to build up her own strength. Lev carries a lot of responsibilities and loyalties for his family but when it came to Carina all of that was thrown out the window. To ensure her safety he put himself in another line of danger by going against his family and marrying her.
Although the book started off with their fwb arrangement already established I thought the flashback chapters were a nice touch that allowed us to see a peek of their past and read just how down bad Carina and Lev were for each other and why it was so hard for them to break it off because there’s no way they should be in a 12 year situationship at their big age if the circumstances were different. It really added a different kind of buzz on top of their more intimate moments. And of course I am a big advocate of the marriage of convenience trope especially if the characters are already in love with each other but haven’t admitted yet, it just serves another level of yearning. If you’re looking for a book with an intense and passionate romance, thrilling mafia drama, and messed up family dynamics pick Velella as your next read!
First and foremost I would like to express how grateful I am to have been given the opportunity to read Velella before its release, thank you thank you thank you!
The last time I enjoyed a mafia romance this much was when I read Pretty Ugly Promises by C.W. Farnsworth herself. It’s hard to come across a book in this genre that doesn’t make me want to scream and tear my hair out in a negative way. Velella is proof that you can write a book with a dark romance aspect without making the mmc a misogynistic tool who disrespects and abuses the fmc and excuses it because that’s “what dark romance is about” when it absolutely is not and a lot of authors and readers have forgotten that, so thank you C.W. Farnsworth for remedying that!
I liked that Carina, who grew up sheltered from the mafia lifestyle wasn’t naive about it. She’s a confident and intelligent woman living her life with as much normalcy as possible as the “forgotten daughter” but still being aware of the dangers coming from that side of her world. When her freedom was threatened she didn’t sit and wait for help that wouldn’t come, her only savior at that point was herself and she fled knowing the consequences . She had to learn to be independent but I loved that when Lev came into the picture she was able to let her guard down and trust that he would keep her safe. I could appreciate the fact that Lev didn’t view that as weakness, and while taking on the role of her protector he still saw the fighter in her and worked with her to build up her own strength. Lev carries a lot of responsibilities and loyalties for his family but when it came to Carina all of that was thrown out the window. To ensure her safety he put himself in another line of danger by going against his family and marrying her.
Although the book started off with their fwb arrangement already established I thought the flashback chapters were a nice touch that allowed us to see a peek of their past and read just how down bad Carina and Lev were for each other and why it was so hard for them to break it off because there’s no way they should be in a 12 year situationship at their big age if the circumstances were different. It really added a different kind of buzz on top of their more intimate moments. And of course I am a big advocate of the marriage of convenience trope especially if the characters are already in love with each other but haven’t admitted yet, it just serves another level of yearning. If you’re looking for a book with an intense and passionate romance, thrilling mafia drama, and messed up family dynamics pick Velella as your next read!
September 28, 2026
increíble la habilidad que tiene esta mujer para atraparme con un libro y que lo termine en un día, creo que es el primero de mafia que leo de ella y no se si tiene más, pero si no tiene le puedo recomendar que escriba la historia de maksim!!!!
no es un cinco estrellas porque a mi parecer le faltó un poco más de diálogo y comunicación entre los mc
♡ “You look tired.”
“Not much sleep.”
She smiles ruefully. “You can smoke, if you want.”
“I quit.”
Her smile grows. “You did?”
“Yes. I hear it is bad for you.”
“It took eleven years for that to sink in?”
“No. It took you marrying me for me to care about living for longer.” ♡
♡ This is reckless. Selfish too. I feel like a stalker. By standard definition, that’s precisely what I am. I shadowed her for an hour yesterday, ducked into a lecture the afternoon before that. And now I’m sneaking between stacks of books, trying to find the clearest view of the table she’s seated at.
Why? Fuck if I know. Seeing her is important somehow. This morning was brutal, and I need a reminder of existence outside of the worst parts of the world.
Of her existence, in particular.
I told myself I’d stay away after walking her back to the pool next door. And I did—for a full year. I also hacked into Albright Academy’s records to find out where she was going to university. When I saw she was staying in Chicago, it did occur to me that seeing her again wouldn’t be difficult. But I didn’t plan on spending this much time stalking her, much less following her into the library to watch her fucking read. ♡
no es un cinco estrellas porque a mi parecer le faltó un poco más de diálogo y comunicación entre los mc
♡ “You look tired.”
“Not much sleep.”
She smiles ruefully. “You can smoke, if you want.”
“I quit.”
Her smile grows. “You did?”
“Yes. I hear it is bad for you.”
“It took eleven years for that to sink in?”
“No. It took you marrying me for me to care about living for longer.” ♡
♡ This is reckless. Selfish too. I feel like a stalker. By standard definition, that’s precisely what I am. I shadowed her for an hour yesterday, ducked into a lecture the afternoon before that. And now I’m sneaking between stacks of books, trying to find the clearest view of the table she’s seated at.
Why? Fuck if I know. Seeing her is important somehow. This morning was brutal, and I need a reminder of existence outside of the worst parts of the world.
Of her existence, in particular.
I told myself I’d stay away after walking her back to the pool next door. And I did—for a full year. I also hacked into Albright Academy’s records to find out where she was going to university. When I saw she was staying in Chicago, it did occur to me that seeing her again wouldn’t be difficult. But I didn’t plan on spending this much time stalking her, much less following her into the library to watch her fucking read. ♡
August 2, 2026
It’s Heated Rivalry + Romeo & Juliet (minus the poison) + “daddy I love him” and I couldn’t read it fast enough.
It was just really delightful.
Her biting his hand when he’s trying to save her from down.
Him smiling at her annoyance and smoking anyway.
Her running to him to save her when she’s offered up as a bride to a psychopath.
Him refusing to give her up.
Her slowly breaks down the walls of his cold family and shows that they do love him.
Him teaching her to protect herself even though he plans on taking any bullets that come her way, AND believes she’s the strongest woman he’s ever met.
Why do I now want to run through field of chamomile with this man?
It might be a top read of the year for me.
It was just really delightful.
Her biting his hand when he’s trying to save her from down.
Him smiling at her annoyance and smoking anyway.
Her running to him to save her when she’s offered up as a bride to a psychopath.
Him refusing to give her up.
Her slowly breaks down the walls of his cold family and shows that they do love him.
Him teaching her to protect herself even though he plans on taking any bullets that come her way, AND believes she’s the strongest woman he’s ever met.
Why do I now want to run through field of chamomile with this man?
It might be a top read of the year for me.
July 22, 2026
It’s Velella release day!!
I don’t tend to seek out mafia romances, but if @authorcwfarnsworth is going to write one, you can bet I’m going to read it! This story was such a wild ride and I was hooked from the very first page.
For over a decade, Lev and Carina have floated in and out of each other’s lives. Seeing each other briefly a few times a year, so much of their lives is kept hidden, and them both belonging to rival mafia families is a topic that was never brought up. But when Carina’s dad is forcing her to marry a man she’s never met, she runs away and Lev’s family becomes determined to find her before her family does.
This story was suspenseful and action packed- in true CW fashion, I was fully immersed in these characters and couldn’t put the book down. I am one of the biggest fan of her stories and how diverse her plot lines are! From billionaires to athletes to small towns to country stars- CW takes up every lane in romance and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next 🤗
Out on KU now!
I don’t tend to seek out mafia romances, but if @authorcwfarnsworth is going to write one, you can bet I’m going to read it! This story was such a wild ride and I was hooked from the very first page.
For over a decade, Lev and Carina have floated in and out of each other’s lives. Seeing each other briefly a few times a year, so much of their lives is kept hidden, and them both belonging to rival mafia families is a topic that was never brought up. But when Carina’s dad is forcing her to marry a man she’s never met, she runs away and Lev’s family becomes determined to find her before her family does.
This story was suspenseful and action packed- in true CW fashion, I was fully immersed in these characters and couldn’t put the book down. I am one of the biggest fan of her stories and how diverse her plot lines are! From billionaires to athletes to small towns to country stars- CW takes up every lane in romance and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next 🤗
Out on KU now!
August 6, 2026
Aw :(((( I loved this, I think this is the first situationship I’ve seen that gets their happy ending LOL. Kinda loved this short sweet and not too bad. If I had someone like this for 12 years and kept coming back to eo I would just die but hey! At least it worked out for them! Yay!
August 28, 2026
3 stars ⭐️
September 30, 2026
Her books will always do it for me! Another quick and easy read that pulls you in right from the beginning
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