Cruel Blood (Marino Legacy Trilogy Book One): A Christian Mafia Romance

by Skylar J. Kent

Genres: Romance, Christian, Christian Romance, Clean Romance, Christian Fiction, Mafia Romance

359 pages, Paperback

Published July 15, 2026

Reviews

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cruel Blood was a wild and gripping story by Skylar J. Kent. Not like anything I have ever read before and let me tell you, I was 100 captivated and entranced into it. Rome is a mob boss for the Marino family after his father's health has declined. Rome is a Christian who is having a hard time staying in the light because he lives in such a darkness and that pull is strong. Skylar J Kent has touched on some mature, tough and real life topics since her first book. She writes these books with such grace and mercy. God's love is always shone brighter than the darkness. I highly, highly recommend any book by Skylar. Btw, Skylar's other pin name is JJ Samie Myles, you definitely want to check those out too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[sam | the bookish soul · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an ARC review.
I’m kinda speechless. What a storyline! I can always count on Skylar J Kent to write the gritty romances I want to read. The writing was fast paced and flowed well. Bella is a woman of God I want to strive to be, and Rome simultaneously broke and put my heart back together. And the way he loves Bella and treats her… *swoon*
This book has the best lines. The heart melting kind and godly truth kind. This is such a great reminder to never judge a person. You have no idea their story.
Definitely give this one a try if you like the darker romances with a Christian twist.

[Nicole | Nicole's Bookstagram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cruel Blood is a Christian mafia romance full of faith, action, suspense, and grit. Skylar J Kent did such an incredible job with this storyline. It broke my heart. It made me think. It challenged me in my walk with Christ. I couldn’t put it down!

Rome is such a wonderfully complex character. He was born into the Marino mob family, raised to be a cold and calculating mob boss, but finds faith along the way. Now he’s trapped in a world he no longer wants to be part of. Yet leaving means allowing evil to step into his position - more lives will be lost and innocent people hurt. But staying requires a certain level of ruthlessness to survive.

I loved Rome from the beginning. He is a dangerous man with a good heart. He’s fiercely protective of those he loves and Bella quickly finds her way inside his inner circle, and his heart. She sees the good in him and makes him want to be better. He encourages her to know her worth, stand up for herself, and set boundaries with her family. They challenge each other, support each other, and pray for each other. I loved watching Bella find her voice and getting more comfortable in Rome’s world. There were so many sweet, tender, and swoony moments between these two. I can’t wait to see how their relationship progresses!

If you enjoy gritty Christian romances, morally gray characters, strong messages of faith and redemption, add this one to your TBR! Make sure you check the content warning as there were some parts that were difficult to read and might be triggering to some. Even in all the darkness, light shines through and the message of faith is clear. This book is just the beginning of their story and I’m so excited to see the rest unfold.

✨Includes:✨
Italian Mafia Don
Tutor Turned Homeschool Teacher
Protective MMC
Touch Her And Die
Light Vs Darkness
Gritty Christian Romance
Touch Adverse MMC
Childhood Trauma
He Treasures Her
She Feels Safe With Him
They Pray For Each Other
He Has Tattoos And Rides A Motorcycle
She Dances And Teaches Hip-Hop
Book 1 Of New Triology

💕Favorites:💕
Protective Rome
Teaching men to respect women
Rome and Giuliana
Rome encouraging Bella to set boundaries
Open and honest communication
Bella tasing Rome on accident
He comforts her during a nightmare
Rome claiming Bella and calling her his
The way he treasures her
On page prayers
Rome’s new tattoo

[Bethany Meadows · Rating 5 out of 5]

A CHRISTIAN mafia romance? How is that even a thing?? Well let me tell ya’ll, Skylar has MADE it a thing.

Romeo Marino is intimately acquainted with the dark side of humanity. After all, he grew up in the Marino crime family. But ironically, it was the one who was supposed to teach him about the light who exposed him to darkness the most. He’s been haunted by his past ever since.

Trying to break free of his chains, Rome continues to believe in the goodness of God—and raise his teenage niece in a better environment. When he finds himself in the dreaded position of mob boss, he works to dismantle the system from the inside out. Except it isn’t that simple.

Bella Ives knows she should stay away from Rome. The mob is bad news. But when she’s asked to tutor his niece, she feels herself drawn to them both. As God works in their lives, darkness threatens. Yet— no matter what, God’s grace is always near.

Skylar is the queen of gritty Christian fiction. It’s real and raw and I can’t get enough of it. She gave us such a believable and realistic reason behind Rome being a mob boss—yet trying to follow Christ. It made so much sense.
This story doesn’t glorify the Mafia. It doesn’t romanticize organized crime. Instead, it shows Christians in the messy and complex parts of life, striving to follow Jesus, and finding God’s overwhelming grace through it all.

What I loved:

🖤Fury( yep, he’s first on this list) 🥹😭
🖤solid and strong faith message
🖤it’s book 1 in a continuing trilogy
🖤communication between Rome and Bella
🖤ALL of the on-page praying for each other
🖤the guys who faced trauma together growing up to fight it together
🖤Rome (and his tattoos)
🖤bandannas
🖤jerking her chair closer with his foot 🫠
🖤male mental health rep

Triggers/Content: moderate gore and violence, drinking, murder(including unborn child), adults who experienced childhood sexual assault (not described on page), several brief torture scenes, mentions of suicide attempts and ideation.

I was given an ARC to honestly read and review. All opinions are my own.











Amazing. Fantastic. All the stars. Full RTC.

[Luana Cavalcanti · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️❤️
I'm crying! I'll post my review later!

All right, I took a deep breath.
I'll try to write this review without spoilers.

ARC review. All honest opinons are my own.
Special thanks to the author @skylarjkent

First of all, I have to say to you that "Cruel Blood" is life changing!!!
I love every single thing about this book.
It affected me in a way that it is not easy to express myself in english. And, you know what?
I'm trilingual LOL
But after I finished this book, I really want to write in portuguese (my first language)
I think because there is some hard topics in this book. A lot of triggers for me ...
BUT I do NOT regret reading it. It's so worth it!!!!

Guys, this book is AMAZING
I finished in 1 night!!!! It was a really intense night. I cried, cried and cried in the end.
And yes, it is oficially in my top 5 remarkable books I read in my entire life. I'm not joking.

Rome and Bella!
I related with both of them!!!
They are so human!
Please, I need more mafia romance without explicit content!!!
Skylar, I loved how you wrote them.
Their love was so beautiful to read! I loved them together, I loved the side characters as well.
I could spend the entire day writing this review because this book is everything I can think about .
Especially, because "Cruel Blood" remind me of God's love and mercy!!!!! And this means a lot to me 😭😭😭💘💘💘


Skylar, I praise God for your life. You're special author. Thank you for writing this book.



⚠️⚠️⚠️ check the TW

(Sorry for any gramatical errors, I'm still emotional 😂)

[Sarah Shelton · Rating 4 out of 5]

mafia romance with faith themes

(Reviewing on husband’s account)

3.75 stars

I have so many thoughts about this story, and I’m honestly not sure where I land when it comes to a star rating. There are aspects I so enjoyed, like the constant prayer and scripture references, as well as the strong found family within the book. I think Skylar is definitely writing stories about topics that are hard to face, but still exist whether we want to face them or not. It was hard for me to fully enjoy into the story when the characters most definitely were trauma-bonded. Parts were hard to read for me, mostly because I didn’t understand character motives, which is one thing Skylar was going for when writing this book. I didn’t agree with lots of Rome’s choices for obvious reasons. I think mafia romance with lots of sad, scary, violent moments may just not be my cup of tea. I plenty of friends who truly enjoyed this story, so this is likely preference thing. There were a couple big revelations in the end that felt too convenient, but they served to move the plot forward. If you’re looking for a mafia romance with heavy Christian influence, this is definitely your vibe!!

[Hannah Fuller · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Cruel Blood by Skylar J. Kent is a 5-star read that completely exceeded my expectations. I wasn't sure what to expect from a Christian mafia romance, but Skylar blended the two genres beautifully. The story was full of suspense, emotion, and heartfelt moments that kept me turning the pages.

Bella and Rome were both incredible characters who had endured so much in their lives. They each carried painful pasts, and watching them face unimaginable trauma together only strengthened their bond. Their relationship was built on trust, faith, healing, and unwavering devotion to one another, making every emotional moment hit even harder.

Rome's fierce protectiveness over Bella and his niece, Giuliana, was one of my favorite parts of the book. There was something so captivating about the way he would do absolutely anything to keep them safe. I also adored Bella's relationship with Giuliana. She stepped into Giuliana's life with so much love, becoming a strong female role model and a fierce protector in her own right. Their bond added so much heart to the story.

The side characters were just as memorable and added so much depth to the story and the world Skylar created. Every relationship felt meaningful and helped make the story even more immersive.

I also appreciated that this was a clean romance. It proves you don't need spice to create incredible chemistry or an emotional connection between the characters. The themes of faith, redemption, forgiveness, and hope were woven naturally throughout the story, making it even more impactful.

If you're looking for a unique mafia romance filled with danger, emotion, faith, found family, and characters you'll root for from beginning to end, I highly recommend Cruel Blood. Thank you to Skylar J. Kent for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. I can't wait to read more from her.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not big on reading mafia romance books but this one was AMAZING!! I loved how the author intertwined God into this book. It truly was a beautiful story and how difficult life can be.

[Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I applaud the author for writing a hopeful, Christ filled book in such a dark world. The characters were constantly praying and had genuine relationships with God. They relied on Him. The relationship between Bella and Rome was so sweet. The relationship still had its trials to overcome though bc of past trauma. I wish I would have read the previous series before this one bc I was sad I missed the couples first interactions with each other. There were many really hard things that happened in this book. I felt so sad that such evil things could happen in this world. I couldn’t believe the resilience of these characters though. The Mafia life is nuts. Check trigger warnings if you are sensitive to sad material.

SPOILERS and book notes:
Rome (31yo! My exact age) rides R1 Yamaha motorcycle and does a wheelie at 130 mph. “They (the cops) called me The Bike Reaper, even though they didn’t know my identity. They just assumed it was me, Romeo Marino, youngest son of the notorious Mafia don, Salvatore Marino.” (Italian mafia) The book takes place on a pretend island east of Hawaii. Darkwater Refuge: “Although US territory, it had its own laws and regulations. The pristine beaches, unhinged nightlife, and fusion cuisine attracted people from all over the world.” It gives me Las Vegas or Gotham city vibes. “We ran entire districts, had cops on our payroll, managed the port and shipments, and puppeteered the big cheese politicians. Nothing happened on this island without us having a hand in it.” He had been totally clean with the law since coming out of prison but now he is made don (mob boss) and guardian of his brothers rebellious 14yo daughter. Now he has to get his hands dirty again. HE has turned to Christ though! He prays. Poor Rome: he doesn’t feel fear. “…I didn’t feel anything. Death didn’t scare me. Pain didn’t scare me either. There was nothing the Russians (The Bratva) could do to me that hadn’t already been done in an attempt to break me.” Actually, there was something that scared me. My niece had experienced more hardship in her fifteen years on this rotten planet than most people did in a lifetime. Apart from me, she had no one. Mother dead, father on the run. No siblings or cousins. I was scared God would take me from her and she’d end up in the kind of environment I’d grown up in. I couldn’t allow that. Had to protect her from that darkness at all costs.” His brother and Giulianas dad broke out of prison so Rome needs to keep him from taking his daughter. Bc he knows she is the chink in romes armor. His neice Guili started her period so he had to call in Harley and Bella . Hehe so cute him in feminine hygiene isle. Rome gang will not deal in drugs. He does not want to feed into that cancer. Yakuza is Japanese mob. Michelle (Rome second) wife is pregnant: ““This is my wife, Haruka.” The love in Michele’s eyes when he looked at her nearly had me melting.” Rome accidentally scares belle in his house and she tased him. ““You know,” I rasped as I unhooked the first probe from my chest with shaking fingers, “I gave you this Taser to use on bad guys, not me. In my own house.” Bella nodded frantically. “I know. I’m so sorry, Mr. Marino!” I smirked. I wasn’t. At least now I knew she wouldn’t hesitate to deploy it.” He has a pet cobra!! And it was loose! But she pet it. He usually hates touch except hers… “Laughing, she shoved me. Or tried to. “Sheesh, you’re built like a brick wall.” Yeah, I doubted a brick wall felt a dark thrill when it got touched. It was like she did it on purpose.” I love that Rome hates that people shorten her name to Bells. He thinks Bella is perfect name for her. She needs to learn to set boundaries. I struggle with this too. The parents of Josh the perfect doctor and her parents want them to marry but she doesn’t want to. he is the only one that notices she is upset and follows her to the bathroom and she vents to him. So he tells her this: ““Bella.” He grasped my chin and tilted my head up so I was forced to look at him. “You go out there and tell them exactly what you told me. We clear?” His touch made my head spin. “Why are you so intense about this?” There went his jaw again, working overtime. “Don’t make me go out there and solve this for you.” “Why?” I whispered. “What would you do?” “I’d claim you so they’ll never bother you with marriage stuff again.” A shiver rippled through me. Do it. I want to see it.” I shook my head. “Thank you, but I got this. I need to learn to set boundaries.” “You’ve got that right. No one else will do it for you.” His gaze turned so intense that I shuddered. “Know your worth, and don’t let anyone degrade it.” Aw!! “And I now knew why I’d yelled at him. Because I felt comfortable with him. I could be one hundred percent myself in his presence.” He saved her from her stupid family and giving her a ride home on his bike: “When Bella kept holding on to my shoulders, I took her hands and guided them around my waist. “Keep them here. If you need me to slow down, tap once. Twice to stop.” “What about speeding up?” I smirked. What a little daredevil. “That won’t happen without you wearing proper gear.” “Boo.” Ah man, this woman was the death of me.” Rome gets stabbed by chopsticks sent by his brother as a warning. Belle has to take him to Josh her ex bc he is a doctor. ““Why would someone attack you? This has me scared for you.” I stilled. Glanced over at her. Her eyes were filled with genuine concern. When was the last time a woman had worried about me? I ignored the warm feeling spreading in my chest.” He has been in prison for two years when he was 24. To take down the crime families when guili turns 18 he will be sent to prison. He is sacrificing his freedom to make the island a safe place. “A delicate hand gripped my bicep, and Bella pillowed her head on my shoulder, her body pressing into mine. “No, I’ll go through this with you, even if they lock you up for the rest of your life.” I swallowed hard. Couldn’t tell if her words or touch messed more with me.” A yacht party as their first date! “Four yachts were anchored close to each other off the marina. Planks connected them so you could switch to another yacht whenever you wanted. All four boasted a DJ playing a different music genre, giving each yacht a unique party vibe.” I love this: “Everyone told me he was dangerous, but I felt safer with him than with anyone else. He didn’t hesitate to protect me. Not one bit.” But someone pushed her overboard. He dives in after her and by a miracle the bullet hit her purse. They give credit to God. “Man, I loved it when she called me Mr. Marino.” Bella didn’t think she mattered or had any thing to offer. She was saying negative things about her self. So Rome stopped and kneeled on the floor before her: ““I don’t get on my knees for anyone, not figuratively, not literally.” He spread his muscular, inked arms. Yet he did for me, right here, in the middle of a busy apartment tower lobby, where everyone could see us.” He asks if she understands: “Good,” he said gruffly. He stood, towering over me. “No more degrading what’s mine.” Bella kneed Rome in the nuts bc he went to give her a kiss too aggressively lol. He told the guys and they died of laughter. ““Bella. Tried to kiss her. She folded me like laundry.” He then didn’t kill someone bc he thought of her! He always did after all he was the guy on the yacht! “Had I really just let that scum walk out that door? For a woman? Not just any woman. Bella. She had me at her freakin’ mercy.” I AM SOBBING. Michele’s own family sent someone who stabbed and killed his beloved wife and her belly and killed her and his unborn son. he sobbed and sobbed and Rome just held him and hugged him. That bad guy almost killed guili and Bella too. But he thinks it’s his brother Gino trying to drive a wedge between his alliances. They kissed and made up!! Decided to trust in god!! “My old self would drop her and walk away to protect her, but I wasn’t that guy anymore. I no longer bowed down to my past and let it destroy what God wanted to bless me with.” These men are so mysterious!!! ““Hey, boss?” “Yeah?” “Thanks for letting me be part of the family.” “Thanks for keeping Giuliana safe.” Fury gave a curt nod,” Bella isn’t graceful at all and I love her for it!! She is learning Italian though!! “He repeated my phrase about Italian being the most beautiful language in the world with a very thick American accent. It sounded so terrible that I started to laugh. The ugly snort-laugh. Which, of course, amused Rome all the more. “I’m flattered that you’re learning Italian for me, but maybe we should just stick to English.” Blonde creed is divorced with a five yo daughter whom he loves. “He was by far the most entertaining of the three.” Michele wife and baby died: “Michele was amazing for deep conversations and talking about faith. And he was an incredible cook.” Fury the youngest with a bandana: “And Fury . . . He was the silent supporter, not to mention brilliant at fixing things, including cars.” They must get Guili back after she is kidnapped by her father. Rome finally tells Bella his past sexual abuse and I was crying. “So she’d stayed in bed with me even though she’d been awake. Because she hadn’t wanted to wake me, or because she didn’t want to leave my side? “I love you, Mr. Marino.” Man, she’d really said that, hadn’t she? I wasn’t good at putting labels on my feelings, but I knew that what I felt for Bella ran deep. The kind of deep where I couldn’t let her go anymore.” They are Italy to save guli! “She inhaled me as if this were our last chance to taste and hold each other. I prayed it wasn’t. This woman was one of the best things that’d ever happened to me. Whenever my mind wandered to her—which it did a lot—my mood instantly lifted. Her presence thrilled me like a ride on my R1. Her touch warmed my insides like a glass of whiskey. Her support was as comforting as the right Bible verse on a rough day. When darkness threatened to consume me, she was my light.” The father talking to Rome: ““The girl,” he wheezed. “She’s special.” Bella. “I like her. A lot. Will marry her when the time’s right.” Dad nodded. “Good. Treat her like a queen, son. That’s the only treatment she deserves.” Fury is the one that gave guili location bc Gino (Rome brother) threatened them all if he didn’t) now Rome has to kill Fury bc he never shows mercy when it comes to moles. Bella found out and arrived at the trade for legacy for guili location to warn Rome. but Rome never wanted her to see this cruel side of him. ““Yes, I know. And it makes me love and admire him all the more.” Something about her words reached deep into my rotten soul and found soil there. That’s what she did. Bella Ives was the kind of woman who healed parts of people she hadn’t broken. She had so much unadulterated love to give, and not just any love—her source was He who was love Himself: Jesus Christ. She looked at me, a soft smile on those lips I wanted to taste one last time. I loved this woman so much it hurt.” Then Bella gets shot in the chest!! “He ripped off his dress shirt and pressed it to my chest. Then he lifted me into his arms. Maybe I was already in heaven. If not, I would get to die in the arms of the man I loved.” Kiera his long lost sister shows up. She is part of the government assigned to take down the terrorist Gino. Rome turned to the lord and felt peace about what ever outcome. The moment she woke up was so beautiful and Christ loving. “Rome’s voice cracked. He lowered his forehead on my hand, his irregular breath warm against my fingers. Something dripped on my knuckles. Tears. My heart twisted. Oh, Rome.”Another minute passed during which Rome remained unmoving with his head down. Then he pressed his lips to my knuckles. Again. And again. My chest flooded with warmth, and from there it spread through my entire body. How was it possible that this man loved me so much? He finally lifted his head and looked at me. His cheeks were wet with tears, but he made no effort to wipe them away. “I thought I was going to lose you, baby.” His voice was so raw I barely caught the words.” Hahahaha: ““Why do they call me Mrs. Marino?” I asked after Rome had pulled back. “They only allow family in the ICU.” I mock-gasped. “You lied to get to me?” “Guilty as charged.” “I heard that,” Elio called from the hallway. “But given the other option would’ve been a gun to my head, I don’t mind a little white lie.” My jaw dropped. “Rome, what did you do?” He has tattoos of light on the right side of his body and ones of darkness on his left: “My eyes filled again at the sight of my name in a curved font inked on his ribs, angel wings spread on either side. “When did you get this?” “That day we had dinner behind the house. You know how God took Adam’s rib to create Eve?” I covered my mouth with a hand. Nodded. Was he saying God had made me just for him? “I’m on the left side, though,” I pointed out carefully. “Does this mean I added to your darkness?” “The opposite. You’re my light in the darkness. My angel.” They all forgave Fury and he is still part of the family!!

[E.L. Irwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable heartfelt read that kept me turning pages. Definitely looking forward to the next one.

[Candi · Rating 5 out of 5]

How am I supposed to pick one thing I loved most about this book when my answer is literally... EVERYTHING?! 🖤

This was easily a 5-star read for me and one I would absolutely read again.

I was instantly drawn to Cruel Blood because of the combination of Christian faith and dark mafia romance. I've been needing books that feel a little more uplifting lately, but I still love the intensity of darker romance. There's something about characters who have experienced darkness, trauma, and complicated pasts finding someone who truly sees them and chooses them anyway. The protectiveness. The devotion. The healing. Finding light in someone when life has given you so much darkness.

And Rome and Bella gave me ALL of that.

Their chemistry was there from the very beginning, and I loved how perfectly they complemented each other. Rome saw Bella. He truly saw her. He helped her recognize her own worth and realize that she could set boundaries to protect her peace.

And Bella truly saw Rome, too. She knew exactly who he was. She knew he was a Mafia Don and understood the darkness of his world and the things he'd done, but she was able to see beyond all of that to the man he truly was. She saw his protectiveness, his loyalty, his heart, and the man who was trying to follow God's will even in the most impossible situations. She didn't ignore his darkness. She simply saw that there was so much more to him than the darkness.

Rome's protectiveness over the people he loved was one of my favorite things about him, especially the way he protected both Giuliana and Bella. And yes, give me ALL the touch-her-and-die energy. 🖤

I also absolutely loved watching Bella and Giuliana's relationship grow. Seeing their bond develop from Giuliana not being able to stand Bella in the beginning to what their relationship eventually became was such a beautiful part of the story.

But what made this book even more special to me was the way faith was woven throughout it. It didn't take away from the darkness or intensity of the story. Instead, it brought this underlying thread of hope into the characters' struggles.

One particular conversation about trusting God and letting go hit incredibly close to home for me because of things happening in my own life right now:

“Trusting God can be hard, especially when we're facing a situation that echoes a painful past.”

I felt that one deeply.

Sometimes trusting God means recognizing that we can't carry everything ourselves, even when every part of us wants to hold on tighter. Reading that at this particular moment in my life was something I didn't know I needed.

And then there's Rome. 🖤

A protective, loyal, complicated man trying to follow God's will while navigating impossible circumstances? A man who sees Bella as his light when darkness threatens to consume him? Who prays to God to make him a man worthy of her?

Yeah... I was done for.

Rome and Bella aren't perfect people living in a perfect world. They're two people who see beyond each other's wounds, reputations, and pasts. They see who the other person truly is.

I loved their chemistry.
I loved their devotion.
I loved the protectiveness.
I loved the faith.
I loved Bella and Giuliana.
I loved watching Bella discover her worth.
I loved watching Rome allow himself to feel.

Like I said...

EVERYTHING. 🖤✝️

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Would absolutely read again.

[Hannah Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Do you need a reminder whom you belong to, Ms. Ives?” he asked, his tone dark.“

Woo. Thank you @skylarjkent for this ARC. Releases July 15th.

I had to take a minute after reading this one to try to come up with the words to do it justice. Like all her books she doesn’t shy away from the hard topics and all her books are soaked in the Word and in prayers

A clean, no spice Christian mafia book doesn’t seem possible but she does it beautifully. While I consider this a light mafia, it’s leans more towards the darker side so check the content warnings. There is on page violence but it’s not overly descriptive.

This is the start of a trilogy for Rome, I believe, with his full redemption at the end of the series. Book 1 ends one conflict and introduces the start of what conflict will be in book 2, so not quite a HEA or a cliff hanger.

Rome is the definition of a morally grey man. Caught between the light and the dark. Wanting so badly just to be able to follow Jesus fully, but due to valid circumstances can’t leave the mafia just yet, and he has to do what a don in the mafia does. He has an exit plan but can’t put it into motion before certain events happen.
While this is a fictional book, once you include the Word there has to be truth within the pages. Skylar shows that truth in both Rome and Bella. That we’re all imperfect people. That as believers the Holy Spirit knows each of us intimately and is working on us where we’re at.
Rome shows that you don’t have to clean up or be perfect to meet Jesus. He will take you as you are, right now, and use you in your current circumstances, as long as you are continually trying to move towards Him.

Bella shows us the importance of surrender. You can’t be everything for everyone. So you need to trust that Lord will care for your loved ones. That as He sustains you He’ll sustain them.

❤️I absolutely love the way that they both pray for each other, privately and with each other.
❤️I love the way Rome protects and encourages Bella, even against her thoughts about herself.
❤️I love the way Bella is so considerate of Rome, and his needs regarding intimacy (not sexual) because of his terrible past.

[Hope Bragg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have delved a few times into the mafia section of the closed-door community. As someone who loves reading about a morally grey MMC with a redemption arc, I always thought that maybe I could get that with this genre. I've never marked the ones I've read, because I just don't feel comfortable recommending them, just because of some of the other content that's involved.
Cruel Blood is a Christian Romance. This means that our MMC is trying to mend his ways the entire way through, but still makes questionable decisions that he has to bring to the Lord.
I really like what Skylar does here and I can finally recommend one here.

I have just a couple of things that don't make this 5 stars.
Grey matter is used in place of thoughts or brain many, many times. As a writer I totally get pet words, it was just a bit repetitive.
Hades is said instead of Hell. I totally get not wanting to cuss on page, but maybe a 'cursed under his breath', or 'used some language he'd have to ask forgiveness for later', or something that indicates he's using language that rather colorful without saying it would have been more natural. Hades took me out of the story. It just didn't seem like something someone in the mafia would say.
Mug instead of face was also repeated many times.

I also struggled in the beginning when the story told us the connection the couple already had beforehand. I know it connects to characters from an earlier book (I've only read Gold Digger). I would have loved to have seen their first interactions and spark.
There were a few other 'unbelievable' things that happened, but those didn't really take away from my enjoyment of the novel. And I will certainly be reading book 2! I will say that was masterfully done. I don't always feel the need to read book 2, even if there's a cliffhanger. This was really done well.

Overall, if you want to delve into a darker book but still need things on the PG side of things (some heavy topics and violence are shown. Only once does the violence make me uncomfortable. I can't say for spoilers, but know it's pretty jarring), then this is the book for you!

[Nuri · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received an ARC copy from the author. All opinions are my own.*

Skylar J Kent does it again. Ripped my heart out? Yes. Put it back together? Mostly. Clocked me multiple times with the word of God? Abso-freakin-lutely.
Cruel Blood is book one in the Marino Legacy Trilogy, and it follows Rome Marino, the current mafia don, and Bella Ives, a teacher.
Rome gave his life to Jesus and wants out of the mafia, but there are things he needs to settle before he can leave. He's also taking care of his rebellious teenage niece. Enter Bella. Rome hires her to homeschool Giuliana (the niece) and chaos ensues.
As Bella is dragged into Rome's dark world, she questions if she, as a Christian, should be getting mixed up with him.
Spoiler alert: he's very protective. And I mean very. We love a protective MMC.
Is Christian Mafia romance even a thing? How can you possibly mix such a dark, dark world with Christ's light? Well, Skylar did a fantastic job.
Christ's light is shone everywhere, including in the Mafia, in prison, in places we wouldn't even think of. We are all sinners, and Jesus died to save all of us.
That being said: this book does not romanticize or glorify the Mafia lifestyle at all. In fact, like I already said, Rome desperately wants out of there.
I read this book in one night after a particularly stressful day, and let me tell you, I was unhinged. This book made me laugh, cry, and everything in between. Peanut (my cat) was beside me the entire time, mostly sleeping unless I woke him up with a gasp or because I grabbed him to vent about something.

This book is 18+ for its mature themes and scenes. No explicit sex, kisses only. Some violence. Please read the content warnings before reading to ensure that you're okay with it. If you're an empath, be sure to have some tissues close by.
Be warned, it ends on a cliffhanger. Happy ending is at the end of the trilogy :D Cruel Blood out July 15th, Lucid Nightmare out November 25th.

"We tend to box God in. We're convinced we know how He thinks and operates, but if we did, He wouldn't be God."

[Gabriela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow just finished Cruel Blood by SkylarJKent and I am just speechless! Captivating from beginning to end-there was suspense, family, romance, betrayal all in one! I had chills, giggled,gasped, screamed, experience all the emotions while inhaling this first book in the trilogy.Both characters such strong personalities became a force to be reckoned with when together! As soon as I got to the end I wanted the following book, can’t wait to continue this trilogy. Everybody go read this book!! Thank you so much SkylarJKent for this beautiful raw love story!

Book overview
ROME

I never thought my rotten heart would get hung up on another woman, but she proved me wrong.

My brother was about to take over our dying father's legacy when he got busted. So now I'm in charge of the Marino family—and his ornery teen daughter, Giuliana. When she gets kicked out of high school and needs a teacher, I hire the woman I haven’t been able to shake from my mind since the first time we met.

I should keep my hands off Bella Ives, and not only because she isn't built for the underworld. But I don't—and find myself begging God for mercy.

BELLA

They warned me about him, but nothing could have prepared me for who he really is.

Everyone knows getting mixed up with the Mafia is a bad idea. Blame it on my savior complex or the reference I need for my dream job, but I agree to homeschool the niece of a mob boss.

Romeo Marino is as brutal as they say. For some reason he wants me, and I let him pursue me. After all, he is bent on turning his back on the mob life.

But when his brother returns to claim his legacy, not only Rome but Giuliana and I are swept into a dangerous game. And it’s about to turn lethal.

Cruel Blood is a gritty Christian mafia romance about a mob boss caught between darkness and light. It's the first installment in the Marino Legacy Trilogy.

Author's Note: While Cruel Blood does not contain explicit content, it is intended for readers 18+ due to mature themes and violence. Content warnings are available under "Read sample."

[Meg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I never thought about reading a Christian book with mafia involved, but I got to say it really surprised me in a good way. This is not my first book from this author, and as the other, it didn't disappoint. Skylar is able to write stories with appealing characters that you can relate to.

Rome has been trying most of his life to escape from the inheritance of his family, but still he ends up being as the don of the mafia. He is a complicated character, with a hard childhood and torn between what he does and his faith. On the other side, Bella is someone who has been overlooked all her life and struggles with setting boundaries and finding her worth. I liked how both brought out the best of each other and how they were helping each other heal from their past traumas. Of course, with all that was going on, they had their ups and downs, but they were there for each other. I loved the small prayers throughout the story and how the main couple prayed for each other.

I appreciated that the book doesn't glorify or minimized the crimes done by Rome and his group, but it was clearly set that God does not condone that behaviour. This is a story about redemption, trusting God's plan in every circumstance, finding our worth in Him and how God puts people in our path to bless us.

My only "complain" is that, as it's advertised as a Christian book, and even though not every character is Christian, there were some figurative phrases used that I personally didn't like. Also, there were some repetitive words that could be changed with some synonyms (but probably it's just me that I'd have preferred that)

Before reading, I'll suggest going through the warnings as the book touches some complicated topics, and probably it won't be for everyone.

* This is a closed-door romance
* It has some language
* Thanks the author for this E-ARC opportunity. All the opinions expressed are purely my own.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply put, wow... what else can be said? This truly is one of those books where I don't know the right words to fully express what an amazing story this was. Let's start with the obvious though, this is not your typical Christian romance. A mob boss who is a Christian... but who also is very much still living in that world with all the cruelty and darkness that come with it? It shouldn't make sense, but one thing I have discovered about Skylar J. Kent is that she truly has a gift of bringing that perfect balance between darkness and light... which is made evident in Rome's complex character. It's definitely not going to be everyone's cup of tea, but personally, I loved it. It was gritty, it was messy, it was traumatic... and yet, there is that sense of hope coming through with a beautiful reminder that no matter what we have done in our lives or what has been done to us, no one is too far gone or too broken for God. You can feel the pain these characters have faced on the pages, but we're not left in the darkness. I loved the romance between Bella and Rome, the protectiveness, the complicated family dynamics, the struggle between the darkness and the light... all of it worked together to bring me into this world. I couldn't put it down. And that ending? My goodness! I am 100% invested in the lives of all of these characters and find myself looking forward to what will come next in this series... I know it's going to be great. Another new favorite for me!

Cruel Blood is a Christian romance. While there is no language and kisses only on the page, it doesn't shy away from the realities of the mafia underworld and does touch on several darker themes that could be triggering for readers. If needed, be sure to see the trigger warnings in the author's note before reading.

**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Jamie Carter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Skylar for picking me to read your book!!!
I would like to say how much I appreciate a clean mafia romance. Secondly, this is my first ARC review!
Reading this book was awesome! I love where the author went. A lot of it was read in bed far after I should have been asleep.

Rome is a man torn between the life that he has always known and the life he is praying for, but isn’t sure is possible. We see his struggles with reconciling the things that he has done in his past, constantly fighting his demons, with what he knows to be true in God’s word and that he is redeemed.

Bella has always been safe and when she finds herself drawn to Rome she gets nervous. I found it frustrating but so relatable! Wanting to be a little dangerous (without compromising morals)…but then getting scared.

Then the closer they got, the more tension develops. Skylar did a great job building those moments. They had a great dynamic together!

I did struggle with the fact that Rome was an adult and he said things like “a’ight” and “my ugly mug” when referring to his face. For me it didn’t put off vibes of leader of mafia family. Sounded like a teenager from the 90s. But that’s a little nit pik.

I do wish we could see a little more of the internal struggle with Bella a little bit? Reconciling her feelings with being with a man in the mafia. Things are touch and go for her but then it’s pretty quick when things are figured out. I didn’t mind it…but would loved to have seen that take its time maybe?

There were slight issues for me with writing style in some places, but story was fantastic! I really really enjoyed this book!

Whether I am privileged to receive the ARC of Lucid Nightmares or have to wait…I am so excited to read that one too!!!

[Caren | Hopefulwords · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary advance copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.

Rating: 4.5 rounded up to 5

Wow! This book made me laugh, but above all, it moved me with how much we need God’s mercy. There’s a brokenness, but not hopelessness. The Light remains steady as the battle to change plays out on the pages.

The humorous moments surprised me, some of them are laugh-out-loud funny, and I think they are needed amidst the heaviness. They are also a reminder to find joy in the little things, even if our hearts are hurting.

One of my favorite things about this book is the author’s approach to a Christian mafia romance — none of the darker subject matter is romanticized. Instead, it feels real, bold, gritty, and the need for Jesus cries out from these pages. Faith is a major theme, which I love, and prayer is part of the main characters. Their faith is part of them.

Please note that there is a content warning at the start of the novel, as this book includes very difficult and heartbreaking topics, including past (before the novel starts) ch*ld SA and showing the long term impact.

Additionally, one particular part of the story is not included in the content warning, but I think it’s a call to show mercy and love to someone who is hurting.

In conclusion, I can’t imagine how difficult it must have been to write this story, but the end result shines with hope, love, and mercy. It doesn’t mean the darkness is gone, but it does mean it won’t prevail. I’m on the edge of my seat waiting for book two!

Content:
Strong Faith Themes
Intimacy level: Kisses Only between the main characters | Non-expl*cit | 18+ for subject matter | Vague references to the promiscuous actions of another character
Language: Mild (or none, depending on a reader’s personal view)
Sensitive subjects: Content warning at the start of the novel; ch*ld SA (past; before the novel starts); depression; references to attempted su*cide; a family member who struggled with substance abuse; unhealthy family relationships
Violence
Alcohol

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I CANNOTTTTT TELL YOU HOW GOOD THIS BOOK IS!!!!! ITS AMAZINGGGG I FINISHED IT IN BASICALLY ONE DAY! I ATE THIS BOOK UP I WAS SO INVESTED I PUT DOWN MY OTHER BOOKS AND READ THIS ONE. THIS BOOK DOMINATED MY MIND ALL DAY🤧 IM SO HAPPY I READ IT BUT SO SAD BECAUSE I FINISHED IT BUT UGH I NEED TO GET THE SECOND BOOK!!!

I love books so much but finding one that doesn’t have spice is SOOO hard, like as a Christian girl I always struggle to find books that are closed door and don’t curse up a storm but this one… oh this this one… it’s so hard not to spoil because it was so good but I’m not gonna spoil anything because it’s so good you have to read it for yourself. This book SNATCHED me out of my reading slump. This book made me kick my feet and giggle and gasp and laugh and all of the above. The authors writing is so amazing and so gosh dang funny that in some moments of the 24 hours I read this book I THOUGHT I WAS READING A ROM COM. But then the mafia stuff kicked in and OH MY GOSH. This book was so good I need to buy not only the physical copy but the next book too, I need to recommend this to my sisters because I never thought I’d finish like a 300 page book in one day like oh my goodness. The emotion the plot the everything literally this book has all the ingredients to a 5 star book on good reads but I give it 100 stars. If this was Americas got talent I’d press the golden buzzer. I’m rambling and glazing this book but I don’t care because it deserves to be talked about👏🏽👏🏽 I’m not even joking like how is Skyler not FAMOUS like how is this book not famous like I’m so confused????? We gotta tell more people about her books guys because this was CHEF’S KISS.💋

[Justina Clissold · Rating 5 out of 5]

First I want to say Thank you Skylar J Kent for allowing me to read and review this book!

From the first page I was hooked!
I have attempted to read other Christian Mafia Romances in the past and didn't care for them much, but this book!! 👌

The pacing of the book was well done. I had no problem finishing this book in just a few sittings. It keeps you engaged and guessing.

I enjoyed how much you see faith themes throughout the book. The author has a firm grasp on the gospel and biblical truths that are reflected in this story. It was encouraging to see the MMC seeking after God time and time again. I loved how the characters were always praying for one another and seeing believers coming together to lift each other up.

I would say to check the trigger warning before diving into this book. It covers some heavy topics but real life is full of hard truths and encounters. I like an author who can discuss hard topics in a graceful way.

The character were not shallow and felt relatable. I enjoyed this book so much because you truly feel immersed into the storyline. I would definitely read more from this author.

Thanks again for letting me be an ARC reader.

[Oruare Ojimadu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mafia and christian.... a thrilling story that hooks from page 1. Met Rome and Bella in prelude books but reading their story, the struggles and the intense desire to stand for God in the midst of crime is an amazing read.
Rome has accepted God's love and is walking that thin line of choosing to stand firm in his belief in God and leading the mafia clan.
In comes in Bella as she tutors his niece, helping her to be a better person. Bella indeed has her own hidden struggles, unable to see her self worth and stand confidently.
Rome and Bella- they complimented themselves, each providing that push and clarity to be better people in Christ. Skylar Kent has woven another enthralling story of God's love and hope. I really enjoyed the fact that the characters are not painted as infallible people but as individuals who are human with flaws navigating life's journey with God's help, each ready to call on God anytime. So much actions and unexpected twists and sometimes pain but in all, Cruel Blood is a book of hope, forgiveness and growth in God. That epilogue.... oh boy! Looking forward to book 2. More secrets to be exposed and hopefully, a liberation.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book and the opinions are mine.

[Bailey Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was my week’s obsession. It hit so many notes: it was fun, flirtatious, devastating, stomach-churning, and everything in between. Kent took on the challenge of writing Christian fiction that explores the underbelly of the fallen world, and she pulls no punches. She shows that Christ’s goodness isn’t drowned out by darkness; it is spotlighted amidst it.

I hope that the next installments of the trilogy shed light on how these characters came to trust God (or, frankly, believe in Him at all) in such dark circumstances. Rome in particular is such a dynamic character, and how he managed to find/retain faith after everything he went through has to be rooted in a very powerful foundation/experience that I am so curious to learn about. I’m also interested to see how Bella will fit into the plot long-term. Her functioning as a “target” for Rome’s enemies I imagine will be a recurring instance (hence that “touch-her-and-die” dynamic I’m a sucker for), but I hope she will rise into a more active role in things—not necessarily in a “girl boss” fashion, as that isn’t realistic with the mob, but just in a general strong-character way.

All in all, the story was powerful, clever, grounded, and challenging even to my own faith. Will definitely be following this series!

[Audrey’s Bookish Bliss 📖✨🍃 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cruel Blood by Skylar Kent is a beautifully written Christian mafia romance that follows Rome a mafia boss and Bella, a devoted Christian whose unwavering faith remains at the center of her life.

I absolutely devoured this book I finished it in just two days and it exceeded every expectation. 🤍

What truly sets this story apart is how naturally the Gospel is woven into every chapter. Through real-life struggles, authentic faith, and meaningful character growth, the story continually points readers back to Christ. I especially loved the inclusion of on-page prayers and Scripture throughout the book. They didn’t feel forced they felt intentional, encouraging, and beautifully integrated into the characters’ journeys.

This book made me laugh, cry, and pause to reflect on my own walk with Christ. It’s a reminder that God’s grace meets us in every circumstance and that no one is beyond His reach.

If you’re looking for a romance that combines high stakes, emotional depth, and a Christ centered message without compromising either the faith or the story, I wholeheartedly recommend Cruel Blood.

Thank you, for faithfully using your gift to glorify God through your writing. I’m already counting down the days until the next book! ❤️📚

[Sabrina Maddox · Rating 2 out of 5]

Here’s the thing. I read Mafia Romance in the description, and I EXPECT action and kissing. Tell me why I got a lot of repeated language (always such a bummer. an easy editing fix, don’t be lazy) and felt like I was dropped in the middle of a friend group with no context. I googled it (multiple times), trying to see if I needed to read some prequel to this book - THAT’S how much information was seemingly missing. I was confused and lost.

There were random people introduced, described, beaten up, and then never heard from again. I, AT LEAST, anticipated that the ONE bad guy who was let go would SOMEHOW end up double crossing them later in the book. But no. He is a ghost now. Doesn’t exist.

I’m not even sure what the main plot of this book is. Romance? No… they ended up together I guess but just bf/gf.
Revenge? No… the brother gets got but in a very unsatisfying and anticlimactic way.

It seems as if the author likes the *vibes* of a mafia romance… and included many tropes related to that vibe (she’s mine, touch her and die, kidnapping, etc) but didn’t know how to land the plane. Or get the plane off the ground. She’s just handing out little baggies of peanuts, but instead of peanuts, they’re plot holes.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

🫑: kisses only (mention of intimacy & past SA of character)
🤬: none

I really enjoyed this book! Skylar always manages to write gritty, Christian romance that shows redemption and forgiveness through Christ alone! This book is such a great reminder that God can work in anyone’s heart and life for His glory.

I love Rome and his found family. He has had a hard life, and is working so hard to crawl his way out of it. At times he feels so hopeless, but is learning more and more to trust in God’s plan for his life. He is reminded, and in turn, readers are reminded that even in the storms of life God is to be praised.

Bella is a sweet character. I love how she works on setting boundaries, and with Rome’s help, is reminded of her worth as a daughter in Christ. She helps Rome start to heal from his past, and she is trusting in God’s plan for her and Rome’s relationship.

The plot is interesting, and we are left at the end of book 1 with lots of things that will possibly be happening in book 2. I am excited to see where Skylar takes us on this ride!

*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review

[Myra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rome Marino lives to protect his family, especially his niece Guillianna. Born into a crime syndicate family, Romeo Marino takes his role as the head of the family seriously and with his belief in God and what God wants Rome’s desire to make the family into an honest business enterprise takes root…but change doesn’t come quickly or easily to a decades old business steeped in crime.
Bella, with her degree in psychology, wants to make a difference in the lives of young people. Her desire is to work with troubled teens as a tutor.
Things get complicated when naive and trusting Bella meets the mafia don who needs a tutor for his niece.

We are all broken and in need of healing in some form. Cruel Blood challenges us to remember that change is not instantaneous or complete at the time of surrendering to God. It is a daily growth experience with ups and downs, leaps and setbacks, that continues from surrender to the grave. Another well written and thought-provoking novel from Skylar J Kent.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book of Skylar's that I've read (although I've read several of JJ's, her other pen name) and my first mafia romance.

I had absolutely no idea how Skylar was going to manage making a mafia romance Christian, but I was intrigued. And, personally, I think she did an excellent job! It was fascinating to watch Rome straddle the line between good and evil, protecting his loved ones the way he had been raised to, while also striving to be better.

As always, it was gritty, dark and horrifying in a lot of ways, but Skylar manages to make the Light shine through, even in the darkest times. I loved Bella's relationship with Rome and how she pushes him closer to the Light just by supporting him. You can already see that growth and change occurring in him, even if this is only book one of the journey.

I am very curious to see where Rome's story goes! Although, I am reminding myself not to get too attached to any of these characters because you never know what's going to happen next!

[Dorothy Brundage · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book in less than 24 hours!
Which is a similar tale to her others books I’ve read haha.
Christian Mafia is kind of an oxymoron, which she has a great post explaining. Man this book had so much depth with the characters. There was so much prayer on these pages it was incredible. I grieved with Rome so much that he is in such a difficult situation with no light in sight. Our dear Bella is that light though. She was such a joy, how could you not like her!

My heart was racing the whole time. I can’t WAIT for book 2 in November!

These books are incredibly gritty and touch on very hard topics that many Christians don’t like to discuss, and I love the author for that. You can tell she’s put so much time and effort and PRAYER into these books to be able to talk on difficult things but bro g glory to God in all of them, as well as NEVER glorify sin.

Thank you for allowing me to read the ARC! I enjoyed it so much!

[M. Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ARC REVIEW***
In the best possible way, this is one of the most unique, gritty, and insane books I've ever read. It follows Rome Marino, Christian who takes over his dad's mob, as he navigates following Christ in that dark environment, his own past and trauma, and that he's falling for Bella, a Christian who's from a completely different and relatively very normal world and is teaching his niece, Guillianna. It's full of action and suspense and is nothing like I've ever seen in the Christian fiction world. That said, it doesn't shy away from or romanticize the realities of the mob underworld, and it does deal with some very heavy topics, so please make sure you're ok with the trigger warnings at the beginning before reading it. It's also rated 18+ for a reason, so I definitely wouldn't recommend this for younger readers but if you want a gritty Christian fiction book that deals with but doesn't romanticize the darkness, Cruel Blood is absolutely for you!