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The Redcap
Aubrey is a private chef who just got fired from her job and is struggling to pay rent. Knowing that she won't accept money from her family, her brother Connor offers her a job. His best friend Wesley has a big business dinner coming up and is looking for a chef. Aubrey takes the odd job, but when the business meeting goes wrong, Aubrey is put in danger and she finds out her entire family has been lying to her. They are in the mafia. Wesley is about to take over as the Don and Connor has been training his entire life to be Wesley's right hand man. Now that she knows, Aubrey must come to terms with her families lies and now that she may be in danger, Wesley is in charge of her safety.
- GenresMafia Romance
407 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 22, 2026
M.S. Ray absolutely knocked it out of the park with this debut mafia dark romance. From the moment I started, I couldn’t put it down.
The chemistry between the FMC and MMC is electric, packed with tension, and yearning. And honestly… we love a man who yearns.
The spice is steamy without ever overshadowing the story. It enhances the romance while allowing the plot and character development to shine. If you’re looking for a mafia romance with addictive pacing, incredible chemistry, and the perfect balance of spice and substance, this one is definitely worth picking up
**I was given an ARC and reviewing by choice**
The chemistry between the FMC and MMC is electric, packed with tension, and yearning. And honestly… we love a man who yearns.
The spice is steamy without ever overshadowing the story. It enhances the romance while allowing the plot and character development to shine. If you’re looking for a mafia romance with addictive pacing, incredible chemistry, and the perfect balance of spice and substance, this one is definitely worth picking up
**I was given an ARC and reviewing by choice**
Review of advance copy received from Author
The crime? organised
The spice? spicy
The men? yearning
I had the honour and privilege to beta and arc-read the debut novel of Marcaroni and Cheese Side of Garlic Bread Doctor Pepper, and it was a delight. Finding the right balance between dark and romance, this book is the perfect introduction to the genre, with interesting, likeable characters, tense stakes and everyone's favourite kind of trauma; this book will leave you yearning for more. But also, how dare you, M.S. Ray. You know what you did!
The spice? spicy
The men? yearning
I had the honour and privilege to beta and arc-read the debut novel of Marcaroni and Cheese Side of Garlic Bread Doctor Pepper, and it was a delight. Finding the right balance between dark and romance, this book is the perfect introduction to the genre, with interesting, likeable characters, tense stakes and everyone's favourite kind of trauma; this book will leave you yearning for more. But also, how dare you, M.S. Ray. You know what you did!
September 26, 2026
This was an amazing read. Complex characters, a plot that kept me guessing, and so well written. Hard to believe this is her debut novel, and I cannot wait to read more by her! Highly recommend 👌
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has had me in a chokehold since the first chapter. I went in expecting a mafia romance and walked away with an emotional rollercoaster full of secrets, betrayals, action, and a romance that had me giggling one minute and stressing the next.
Aubrey starts off as a chef who's already had life kick her while she's down after losing her job. Thinking she's just cooking for one important business dinner as a favor to her brother's best friend, Wesley, everything changes in the blink of an eye when one of the “associates” guards tries to attack her. From that moment on, the story never slows down.
Every time I thought I had everything figured out, another bomb was dropped. Finding out Aubrey had been lied to her entire life completely shifted the story and her as a person in a way. Suddenly what seemed like a straightforward story turned into a dangerous hunt for the truth. More than one truths. Throw in a mafia organization with a big problem hiding in plain sight, not so mysterious deaths, and people who can't be trusted, and I was flying through the pages. There were a few chapters that absolutely tore my heart apart, had a few good cries..
Now let's talk about Wesley...
THIS MAN.
Exactly what I imagine when someone says"touch her and die." Protective without becoming overbearing, keeping her safe from afar while respecting her independence. He was patient when Aubrey needed answers, the only one willing to tell her the truth. All while being *completely* gone for his best friend's little sister long before either of them admitted it. Every chapter where he put himself between Aubrey and danger had me kicking my feet one second and screaming the next. His quiet devotion spoke louder than any grand declaration ever could. His urge to protect her was just *chefs kiss*
The chemistry between Aubrey and Wesley was everything you could have wanted. Years of unspoken feelings, stolen glances, forced proximity, lingering touches, and enough tension to make every interaction feel electric. When they finally gave in to their feelings, it felt completely and totally earned. The romance was balanced perfectly with the mystery, and the spice added just enough heat without overshadowing the story.
Connor was another standout. Watching him and Wesley work together to uncover what really happened to their parents while protecting Aubrey added so much emotional depth. All he wanted was to protect his sister, but training to become the don’s right hand man always has its downsides. Their loyalty to one another made every betrayal they faced together hit so much harder.
And the action? Absolutely relentless. Just when I thought everyone might have a break, someone targeted Aubrey again, throwing the entire story into chaos. The last portion of this book was nonstop unexpected twists, danger, and revelations that kept me saying, "Just one more chapter" until suddenly it was 3 a.m, when I finished the book 😅 He has officially made it on to my fictional boyfriend list and I highly recommend giving him a chance!! Add to your tbrs now!!
I was given this story early as an arc reader and am reviewing it by choice*
Aubrey starts off as a chef who's already had life kick her while she's down after losing her job. Thinking she's just cooking for one important business dinner as a favor to her brother's best friend, Wesley, everything changes in the blink of an eye when one of the “associates” guards tries to attack her. From that moment on, the story never slows down.
Every time I thought I had everything figured out, another bomb was dropped. Finding out Aubrey had been lied to her entire life completely shifted the story and her as a person in a way. Suddenly what seemed like a straightforward story turned into a dangerous hunt for the truth. More than one truths. Throw in a mafia organization with a big problem hiding in plain sight, not so mysterious deaths, and people who can't be trusted, and I was flying through the pages. There were a few chapters that absolutely tore my heart apart, had a few good cries..
Now let's talk about Wesley...
THIS MAN.
Exactly what I imagine when someone says"touch her and die." Protective without becoming overbearing, keeping her safe from afar while respecting her independence. He was patient when Aubrey needed answers, the only one willing to tell her the truth. All while being *completely* gone for his best friend's little sister long before either of them admitted it. Every chapter where he put himself between Aubrey and danger had me kicking my feet one second and screaming the next. His quiet devotion spoke louder than any grand declaration ever could. His urge to protect her was just *chefs kiss*
The chemistry between Aubrey and Wesley was everything you could have wanted. Years of unspoken feelings, stolen glances, forced proximity, lingering touches, and enough tension to make every interaction feel electric. When they finally gave in to their feelings, it felt completely and totally earned. The romance was balanced perfectly with the mystery, and the spice added just enough heat without overshadowing the story.
Connor was another standout. Watching him and Wesley work together to uncover what really happened to their parents while protecting Aubrey added so much emotional depth. All he wanted was to protect his sister, but training to become the don’s right hand man always has its downsides. Their loyalty to one another made every betrayal they faced together hit so much harder.
And the action? Absolutely relentless. Just when I thought everyone might have a break, someone targeted Aubrey again, throwing the entire story into chaos. The last portion of this book was nonstop unexpected twists, danger, and revelations that kept me saying, "Just one more chapter" until suddenly it was 3 a.m, when I finished the book 😅 He has officially made it on to my fictional boyfriend list and I highly recommend giving him a chance!! Add to your tbrs now!!
I was given this story early as an arc reader and am reviewing it by choice*
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Redcap was an emotional roller coaster, and I would happily put myself through it all over again.
It was obvious early on that Aubrey and Wesley were destined to fall in love, but the journey to get there was anything but predictable. Their relationship was full of twists and turns that kept me completely invested. I had a few theories about where the story was going, and while I guessed some aspects correctly, there were still plenty of moments that genuinely shocked me.
At one point I looked at the clock and realized it was after midnight, but there was no way I was putting the book down. Within just a few chapters I laughed, smiled, cried, and then cried even more because I had to know what happened next.
The hardest part for me was the cat's death. The story gave subtle hints that it was coming, but I kept hoping I was wrong. As heartbreaking as it was, I appreciate how thoughtfully it was written. It was clear the cat didn't suffer, which made the scene easier to process while still carrying the emotional weight it needed.
The spice was fantastic. There weren't a lot of spicy scenes, but every one of them was well written and felt like it belonged in the story rather than being thrown in for the sake of it.
Overall, this is one of the best books I've read in a long time. The plot kept me on edge from beginning to end, the characters felt relatable, and the emotional payoff was absolutely worth it. If you're looking for a romance with incredible tension, emotional depth, shocking twists, and just the right amount of spice, I highly recommend The Redcap.
It was obvious early on that Aubrey and Wesley were destined to fall in love, but the journey to get there was anything but predictable. Their relationship was full of twists and turns that kept me completely invested. I had a few theories about where the story was going, and while I guessed some aspects correctly, there were still plenty of moments that genuinely shocked me.
At one point I looked at the clock and realized it was after midnight, but there was no way I was putting the book down. Within just a few chapters I laughed, smiled, cried, and then cried even more because I had to know what happened next.
The hardest part for me was the cat's death. The story gave subtle hints that it was coming, but I kept hoping I was wrong. As heartbreaking as it was, I appreciate how thoughtfully it was written. It was clear the cat didn't suffer, which made the scene easier to process while still carrying the emotional weight it needed.
The spice was fantastic. There weren't a lot of spicy scenes, but every one of them was well written and felt like it belonged in the story rather than being thrown in for the sake of it.
Overall, this is one of the best books I've read in a long time. The plot kept me on edge from beginning to end, the characters felt relatable, and the emotional payoff was absolutely worth it. If you're looking for a romance with incredible tension, emotional depth, shocking twists, and just the right amount of spice, I highly recommend The Redcap.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t even know where to start because I am OBSESSED with this book. I finished it in two sittings, and the only reason it wasn’t one is because my husband made me go to sleep 😂
The Redcap was such a smooth, effortless read. I was completely hooked from the beginning and never wanted to put it down. I laughed, I cried, I smiled like an idiot, and there were multiple moments where my jaw was literally on the floor.
The characters have so much depth, and I fell in love with all of them. They felt so real, and I became completely invested in them and their stories. M.S. Ray’s writing style is everything I want in a book. It flowed so naturally and made it incredibly easy to completely lose myself in the story.
And the spice?! BEAUTIFUL. 🌶️🔥 It was so well written and fit the story and the characters perfectly. The chemistry was absolutely there, and when things got spicy, they GOT SPICY. 👀 But it never felt like it took away from the actual story or the emotional connection between the characters, which I loved.
This was my first book by M.S. Ray, but I can confidently say I am now a fan for life. Whatever she writes next, I will be reading it. And I will 1000% be buying a physical copy of The Redcap because I need this book on my shelf!
Thank you so much to M.S. Ray for allowing me to read an ARC of this incredible book. All opinions are completely my own, and my opinion is that you NEED to read this book. ❤️
The Redcap was such a smooth, effortless read. I was completely hooked from the beginning and never wanted to put it down. I laughed, I cried, I smiled like an idiot, and there were multiple moments where my jaw was literally on the floor.
The characters have so much depth, and I fell in love with all of them. They felt so real, and I became completely invested in them and their stories. M.S. Ray’s writing style is everything I want in a book. It flowed so naturally and made it incredibly easy to completely lose myself in the story.
And the spice?! BEAUTIFUL. 🌶️🔥 It was so well written and fit the story and the characters perfectly. The chemistry was absolutely there, and when things got spicy, they GOT SPICY. 👀 But it never felt like it took away from the actual story or the emotional connection between the characters, which I loved.
This was my first book by M.S. Ray, but I can confidently say I am now a fan for life. Whatever she writes next, I will be reading it. And I will 1000% be buying a physical copy of The Redcap because I need this book on my shelf!
Thank you so much to M.S. Ray for allowing me to read an ARC of this incredible book. All opinions are completely my own, and my opinion is that you NEED to read this book. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Wow this story kept me on toes in the best ways. It’s not just a romance, there are so many other plot movers that keep this book exciting.
The story follows Wesley (the heir to the Italian mafia) and Aubrey (his right-hand/best friend’s younger sister). They grew up together and he’s always had a soft spot for her. Wesley’s dad is the don and Aubrey’s father was his second in command until he was killed when they were kids. The entire family decided to keep her hidden from the mafia world, so she doesn’t find out about her connection to it until she is put into danger. In order to keep her safe they put security on her and she becomes Wesley’s personal chef. The forced proximity also forces their feelings for each other to come to life.
Absolutely loved this plot. I was looking so deeply into each interaction to find to determine who was the bad guy. Constantly guessing. The author did a great job of balancing the spice with the plot.
I loved Aubrey and Wesley as a couple. Having known each other since childhood they have such a deep connection. I loved seeing them together.
Tropes:
🖤 Mafia romance
😏 Brother’s Best Friend
🏡 Childhood friends to lovers
🥀 Future don x 👩🏼🍳 chef FMC
🥺 Yearning
🕵🏼♀️ Mystery to solve
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Wow this story kept me on toes in the best ways. It’s not just a romance, there are so many other plot movers that keep this book exciting.
The story follows Wesley (the heir to the Italian mafia) and Aubrey (his right-hand/best friend’s younger sister). They grew up together and he’s always had a soft spot for her. Wesley’s dad is the don and Aubrey’s father was his second in command until he was killed when they were kids. The entire family decided to keep her hidden from the mafia world, so she doesn’t find out about her connection to it until she is put into danger. In order to keep her safe they put security on her and she becomes Wesley’s personal chef. The forced proximity also forces their feelings for each other to come to life.
Absolutely loved this plot. I was looking so deeply into each interaction to find to determine who was the bad guy. Constantly guessing. The author did a great job of balancing the spice with the plot.
I loved Aubrey and Wesley as a couple. Having known each other since childhood they have such a deep connection. I loved seeing them together.
Tropes:
🖤 Mafia romance
😏 Brother’s Best Friend
🏡 Childhood friends to lovers
🥀 Future don x 👩🏼🍳 chef FMC
🥺 Yearning
🕵🏼♀️ Mystery to solve
Review of advance copy received from Author
The redcap is far more than just a dark mafia romance. It's an emotional rollercoaster, yearning from both MCs as we have duo POV, a lot of mystery, family secrets, thriller elements, humour, sorrow, strong family bonds, found family, spice that doesn't over take the plot and an ending I didn't see coming which all together makes for a delicious combination of a book I couldn't put down. We follow Aubrey a chef who gets fired from her job and is struggling to make ends meet so Aubrey's brother Connor decides to ask his best friend Wesley if he can hire Aubrey to cater for an upcoming dinner party and he accepts. Little did any of them know the event would change everything. Wesley has been in training since the day he was born to become an Italian mafia Dom and Connor his right hand man but up until the dinner party he's had little to do with Aubrey since they were children and she left for boarding school. Aubrey after the dinner party event ends up working for Wesley as an in-house cook but as time passes their past feelings for one another become difficult to contain as they yearn for each other's touch. Meanwhile danger lurks all around them.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**Especial thanks to the author for giving me a digital ARC.
I don’t usually read dark mafia romances but this was such an enjoyable read. The time and effort the author put into telling this story was noticeable.
The story follows a chef, Aubrey, who loses her high paying job working in a luxurious restaurant after a bad encounter with a customer. She’s desperately looking for a new job when her brother Conner refers her to his best friend, Wesley, who needs a private chef for a work dinner. After another horrible indecent during the dinner with a guest, Aubrey learns that her whole life is basically a lie and Conner and Wesley have been keeping a huge family secret from her.
The romance was absolutely amazing in this book, but the plot was even more gripping. I feel so bad for Aubrey, my girl needs a BREAK. I appreciated the way the harder topics in this book were handled with a realistic depiction of grief. I teared up a couple of times during this book bc I just resonated so hard with Aubrey 😭🥹
**Definitely check your triggers**
Tropes:
Childhood best friend to lovers
Mafia
Brothers best friend
Forbidden (ish) romance
Employee x boss
(Review crossposted on: PageBound @nomchies)
I don’t usually read dark mafia romances but this was such an enjoyable read. The time and effort the author put into telling this story was noticeable.
The story follows a chef, Aubrey, who loses her high paying job working in a luxurious restaurant after a bad encounter with a customer. She’s desperately looking for a new job when her brother Conner refers her to his best friend, Wesley, who needs a private chef for a work dinner. After another horrible indecent during the dinner with a guest, Aubrey learns that her whole life is basically a lie and Conner and Wesley have been keeping a huge family secret from her.
The romance was absolutely amazing in this book, but the plot was even more gripping. I feel so bad for Aubrey, my girl needs a BREAK. I appreciated the way the harder topics in this book were handled with a realistic depiction of grief. I teared up a couple of times during this book bc I just resonated so hard with Aubrey 😭🥹
**Definitely check your triggers**
Tropes:
Childhood best friend to lovers
Mafia
Brothers best friend
Forbidden (ish) romance
Employee x boss
(Review crossposted on: PageBound @nomchies)
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I absolutely devoured this book! The Redcap completely pulled me in from the very first chapter and refused to let go. It has the perfect balance of dark atmosphere, tension, romance, spice, and emotional depth. Every chapter left me wanting “just one more,” and before I knew it, I had finished the entire thing.
The characters were incredibly compelling, and I loved watching their relationships develop naturally throughout the story. The world building was immersive without ever feeling overwhelming, and the pacing kept me hooked the whole way through. There were so many moments that had me grinning, gasping, or desperately needing to know what happened next.
As an ARC reader, I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to experience this story early. It exceeded my expectations, and I’ll definitely be recommending it to anyone who enjoys dark fantasy romance with unforgettable characters and plenty of intrigue.
Thank you, M.S. Ray, for trusting me with an ARC. I can’t wait to see what you write next!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I absolutely devoured this book! The Redcap completely pulled me in from the very first chapter and refused to let go. It has the perfect balance of dark atmosphere, tension, romance, spice, and emotional depth. Every chapter left me wanting “just one more,” and before I knew it, I had finished the entire thing.
The characters were incredibly compelling, and I loved watching their relationships develop naturally throughout the story. The world building was immersive without ever feeling overwhelming, and the pacing kept me hooked the whole way through. There were so many moments that had me grinning, gasping, or desperately needing to know what happened next.
As an ARC reader, I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to experience this story early. It exceeded my expectations, and I’ll definitely be recommending it to anyone who enjoys dark fantasy romance with unforgettable characters and plenty of intrigue.
Thank you, M.S. Ray, for trusting me with an ARC. I can’t wait to see what you write next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Redcap is easily one of the best books I've read in a long time. From beginning to end, I couldn't put it down. It struck the perfect balance between heart-pounding suspense and romance, with just the right amount of spice to keep things exciting without overshadowing the story.
The twists and turns kept me guessing, and just when I thought I had everything figured out, another surprise completely changed the direction of the story. The writing flowed effortlessly, making it easy to become fully immersed in the world and invested in the characters.
If you're looking for a book that delivers thrilling action, romance, emotional moments, and plenty of unexpected surprises, The Redcap is an absolute must-read. I was hooked from the first chapter and was still thinking about it long after I finished. Without a doubt, this is one of my favorite reads in quite a while, and I can't recommend it enough!
The twists and turns kept me guessing, and just when I thought I had everything figured out, another surprise completely changed the direction of the story. The writing flowed effortlessly, making it easy to become fully immersed in the world and invested in the characters.
If you're looking for a book that delivers thrilling action, romance, emotional moments, and plenty of unexpected surprises, The Redcap is an absolute must-read. I was hooked from the first chapter and was still thinking about it long after I finished. Without a doubt, this is one of my favorite reads in quite a while, and I can't recommend it enough!
September 25, 2026
I received this book as an arc and I’m honored that M.S.Ray entrusted me with her debut story. It took me two days to read it, because I couldn’t put it down. I read the first half the first day, and finished it the second day.
This book was amazing. I love me some dark romance and this dark mafia masterpiece had me hooked. The plot was plotting in this book. The spice was spicy and amazing. The relationships were beautiful even when there was tension. And don’t even get me started on the betrayal. It is a must read and I would recommend it to anyone especially those that love dark romance and mafia. Aubrey, I loved that she was so independent and didn’t want help from anyone. Conner her brother was a hardass, but I loved him. And Damn Wesley that man was full of yearning. And I love me a yearning man.
This book was amazing. I love me some dark romance and this dark mafia masterpiece had me hooked. The plot was plotting in this book. The spice was spicy and amazing. The relationships were beautiful even when there was tension. And don’t even get me started on the betrayal. It is a must read and I would recommend it to anyone especially those that love dark romance and mafia. Aubrey, I loved that she was so independent and didn’t want help from anyone. Conner her brother was a hardass, but I loved him. And Damn Wesley that man was full of yearning. And I love me a yearning man.
Review of advance copy received from Author
On the edge of my seat!
I blazed through this book! M.S. Ray did a fantastic job of making the MMC, Wesley, likable and understandable without diminishing the seriousness of his chosen profession. The FMC is strong and no-nonsense without being too stereotypically “independent woman”, and the yearning level is off the charts! Delicious slow burn with careful tension. Spice that feels intentional and important to the plot.
The reveal near the end was well-timed and unexpected! Great easy pacing, moves through the story efficiently but without rushing. Full of suspense, with moments that balance right on the line between scary and serious. It left me excited for the next books, and eager to get to know the other characters better!
I blazed through this book! M.S. Ray did a fantastic job of making the MMC, Wesley, likable and understandable without diminishing the seriousness of his chosen profession. The FMC is strong and no-nonsense without being too stereotypically “independent woman”, and the yearning level is off the charts! Delicious slow burn with careful tension. Spice that feels intentional and important to the plot.
The reveal near the end was well-timed and unexpected! Great easy pacing, moves through the story efficiently but without rushing. Full of suspense, with moments that balance right on the line between scary and serious. It left me excited for the next books, and eager to get to know the other characters better!
October 20, 2026
Aubrey loses her father in a tragic home invasion when she is a little kid. 20 years later she is a chef and her brother works alongside their childhood best friend. Aubrey believes that they work in finance, the same way that her father did. After Aubrey loses her job , her brother Connor onnects her with his best friend, Wesley, to cook at a dinner for him. After a series of events occurs at that dinner, Aubrey's life is in danger and she also finds out secrets about her family that she didn't know. She also can no longef deny her attraction to Wesley. This romantic thriller had lots of spice, a captivating plot with lots of twist and turns and an MMC that is just gray enough to make you want more. Read the book to figure out why it's named The Redcap.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Recap is M. S. Ray's debut novel and i highly recommend.
The Redcap starts out strong from the very first chapter.
Aubrey is a chef who loses her job and is offered a job cooking for her brother's best friend, Wesley. There is more to Wesley than meets the eye. More than Aubrey ever knew existed. Aubrey's brother, Connor has been keeping a very big secret her whole life and things blow up forcing Aubrey into the mafia world.
The chemistry between Wesley and Aubrey is undeniable and will leave you wanting more.
The Redcap is a brother's best friend mafia romance full of tension and suspense. I received this book as an advanced reader and i highly recommend reading.
The Redcap starts out strong from the very first chapter.
Aubrey is a chef who loses her job and is offered a job cooking for her brother's best friend, Wesley. There is more to Wesley than meets the eye. More than Aubrey ever knew existed. Aubrey's brother, Connor has been keeping a very big secret her whole life and things blow up forcing Aubrey into the mafia world.
The chemistry between Wesley and Aubrey is undeniable and will leave you wanting more.
The Redcap is a brother's best friend mafia romance full of tension and suspense. I received this book as an advanced reader and i highly recommend reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So when I say I couldn’t put this book down, what I mean is I didn't go to bed until after 2am because I *had* to finish it. The story was engaging, and I was genuinely drawn in and holding my breath in quite a few scenes. Was it because of the danger, the action, the twists, the spice? Yes.
The only thing keeping me from a full five is that there were a few spots when the wording or editing was a bit uneven. Just a tad disjointed, and it would take me out of it for a second. But that could very well be a personal opinion, and maybe my nitpicking is misguided. Overall, I'm incredibly grateful I got a chance to read this. I look forward to seeing more from the author!
The only thing keeping me from a full five is that there were a few spots when the wording or editing was a bit uneven. Just a tad disjointed, and it would take me out of it for a second. But that could very well be a personal opinion, and maybe my nitpicking is misguided. Overall, I'm incredibly grateful I got a chance to read this. I look forward to seeing more from the author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advanced copy from the author and reviewing by my own choice
When I couldn't stop reading I mean it. I loved this book. Yes the spice is definitely there but didn't take away from the amazing plot. The characters developed so naturally. While yes this is mafia romance and can be seen as dark the way the MMC treats the FMC is far from dark. I always try my best to not give spoilers in my reviews but I will say I was checking pages numbers to make sure I wasn't going to be left on a cliffhanger because the twist definitely wasn't was I was expecting. M.S. Ray is definitely an author I will be looking for more books from.
When I couldn't stop reading I mean it. I loved this book. Yes the spice is definitely there but didn't take away from the amazing plot. The characters developed so naturally. While yes this is mafia romance and can be seen as dark the way the MMC treats the FMC is far from dark. I always try my best to not give spoilers in my reviews but I will say I was checking pages numbers to make sure I wasn't going to be left on a cliffhanger because the twist definitely wasn't was I was expecting. M.S. Ray is definitely an author I will be looking for more books from.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Trigger warning: animal death
I would say this is a semi fast pace of reading. Audrey doesn't know that Wesley and Connor, her brother are involved in the Mafia, along with her father till she is put into a situation. Wesley has been pining for her for so long but never acted on it till they are living together for her protection. Wesley and Connor have never stopped looking at who killed Wesley's mom and Aubrey/Conner's father whom they witness their murder when they were young.
I'd say this was a bit of a slow burn spice and would give it 2.5 for spicy level.
The characters and writing was engaging. I'd say this is def worth a read, especially if you like Mafia.
I would say this is a semi fast pace of reading. Audrey doesn't know that Wesley and Connor, her brother are involved in the Mafia, along with her father till she is put into a situation. Wesley has been pining for her for so long but never acted on it till they are living together for her protection. Wesley and Connor have never stopped looking at who killed Wesley's mom and Aubrey/Conner's father whom they witness their murder when they were young.
I'd say this was a bit of a slow burn spice and would give it 2.5 for spicy level.
The characters and writing was engaging. I'd say this is def worth a read, especially if you like Mafia.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Redcap is a phenomenal story between little sister and brother's best friend. We watch their relationship grow as the main characters work together to uncover the secret truth behind a home invasion gone wrong.
This dark romance mafia story will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions. You'll stress, laugh, wonder and cry. (I'm not crying you are! ME: Was definitely was just crying my eyes out...)
M.S. Ray did a fantastic job of bringing the story to life with the intensity of the emotions and scene descriptions. Excited to see what story she conjures up next!
This dark romance mafia story will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions. You'll stress, laugh, wonder and cry. (I'm not crying you are! ME: Was definitely was just crying my eyes out...)
M.S. Ray did a fantastic job of bringing the story to life with the intensity of the emotions and scene descriptions. Excited to see what story she conjures up next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay, I don't often "read" books because i find it hard to stay ebgaged that listening is just better. HOWEVER! I tore through this book!
This book had me hooked from the beginning. The story and investment into the characters started out so strong. I didnt want to stop reading. I was reading on the couch next to my husband and I cried, i smiled, and laughed. You can relate and connect with these characters.
It had emotions, thrill, darkness, with a lovely dose of spice and romance.
100% recommending to book club!
This book had me hooked from the beginning. The story and investment into the characters started out so strong. I didnt want to stop reading. I was reading on the couch next to my husband and I cried, i smiled, and laughed. You can relate and connect with these characters.
It had emotions, thrill, darkness, with a lovely dose of spice and romance.
100% recommending to book club!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is such an amazing slow-burn mafia romance. It deals with so many different topics in such respectful ways. The characters are incredibly well written, and I love all of the character dynamics.
This book basically edges you in the most teasing way, constantly building the tension. My favourite chapters were the dark and horrific ways certain characters met their ends, but the violence was never overly graphic, which the author handled exceptionally well.
You're left with a story that feels incredibly realistic and keeps you deeply invested in the characters from beginning to end.
This book basically edges you in the most teasing way, constantly building the tension. My favourite chapters were the dark and horrific ways certain characters met their ends, but the violence was never overly graphic, which the author handled exceptionally well.
You're left with a story that feels incredibly realistic and keeps you deeply invested in the characters from beginning to end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to M.S. Ray for sending me an advance reader copy of The Redcap!
I really enjoyed this mafia romance! I loved the mystery surrounding Aubrey’s family and watching her navigate the shocking truth about who they really are. The forced-proximity/protective vibes with Wesley added even more tension, and I was definitely curious to see how everything would unfold. This book had me glued in that I could not look away!
If you enjoy mafia romance, family secrets, danger, and a protective love interest, The Redcap is definitely one to add to your TBR! 📚🖤
I really enjoyed this mafia romance! I loved the mystery surrounding Aubrey’s family and watching her navigate the shocking truth about who they really are. The forced-proximity/protective vibes with Wesley added even more tension, and I was definitely curious to see how everything would unfold. This book had me glued in that I could not look away!
If you enjoy mafia romance, family secrets, danger, and a protective love interest, The Redcap is definitely one to add to your TBR! 📚🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book! I was quickly invested in the characters and the storyline was well thought-out. It kept moving but gave me plenty of background to understand where people were coming from. More than one audible gasp escaped me before I was finished with the book, and while I felt like there was a great resolution, I also felt like there was room for the characters to grow in a series - which I’m hoping is the case! This is one of those books where you end up mad that real life gets in the way of staying in the story 😉 I didn’t know how much I needed the mafia in my life until now 🤷🏻♀️
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August 26, 2026The Redcap immediately caught my attention with its dark and intriguing atmosphere. The title and cover create a sense of mystery and danger that made me curious to discover what was behind the story. M.S. Ray’s writing feels promising, and the book has the kind of eerie appeal that can keep readers wanting to know more. I’m looking forward to seeing how the story unfolds and what surprises it has in store.
September 26, 2026
I loved this great dark romance mafia story.
The book's twists and turns held me captive from the start to the action filled end.
The chemistry between the two main characters Wesley and Aubrey made me really care about them.
Aubrey and her best friend Mira’s shenanigans really carried the moments between action and spice.
I really connected to the characters, loved the New York scenery and was carried away by the plot.
The book's twists and turns held me captive from the start to the action filled end.
The chemistry between the two main characters Wesley and Aubrey made me really care about them.
Aubrey and her best friend Mira’s shenanigans really carried the moments between action and spice.
I really connected to the characters, loved the New York scenery and was carried away by the plot.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Five stars! This book completely pulled me in. The plot flows effortlessly, and the character development is phenomenal. I lost sleep more than a few nights telling myself 'just one more chapter' before looking up and realizing hours had passed.
M.S. Ray delivers a fantastic read, and I’ll definitely be first in line for the next release!"
M.S. Ray delivers a fantastic read, and I’ll definitely be first in line for the next release!"
Review of advance copy received from Author
If I was 5 years younger, I would have stayed up all night to binge this book… This is a mafia romance done right. The plot was outstanding, the dialogue was great, the pacing was fantastic. I won’t spoil anything but boy did parts of this story bring tears to my eyes. Beautifully, beautifully done.
5⭐️ 3🌶️
5⭐️ 3🌶️
September 7, 2026
Arc Reader: I am usually not a Mafia Romance reader but I REALLY enjoyed this debut novel. It was action packed which kept you interested. The yearning and spice were perfect and each of the characters were really well developed. The only reason I’m not giving it five stars is because I figured out the villain quite early on, but the ending really wrapped up very well!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to my good friend M.S. Ray for giving me the opportunity to read her debut novel, and I must say, this was a slam dunk!! The first few pages had me hooked, and as the story went on, it kept getting better and better. Don't usually read Mafia Romance books, but I'm glad I read this one! Last thing I'd say is, READ THIS DAMN BOOK.
September 29, 2026
The Recap pulled me in with its dark, dangerous atmosphere and the kind of intense chemistry that makes you keep saying, “just one more chapter.” It had the possessiveness, tension, morally gray characters, and mafia drama I want when I pick up a dark romance. If you like your romance dark, your men dangerous, and your relationships a little unhinged, The Recap is worth adding to your TBR!!
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