What do you think?
Rate this book
Mafia Wars #2
Gunmetal Lily
I was sold to my enemies.
There was a deal made to keep the peace. War wasn’t good for business. But deals were broken all the time. What did these powerful families have as collateral? Their daughters. A decade earlier, they decided that we were expendable, that we could be sold in marriage to keep their dealings honest. I didn’t matter more than the security I could bring to the marketplace. I was twelve when they decided that, in ten years, I’d belong to the Hernandez family. Everyone knew what was coming for me. Everyone…except me.
I have no choices. The daughter of mobsters, I now belong to the Mexican Cartel. But even the terrible images those words evoke are nothing compared to what is coming for me. My new family will discover I am more than just a pawn in their chess game. I'm named after a flower, but I don't wilt. I am determined to come out ahead in their Mafia Wars.
*Gunmetal Lily is a full-length reverse harem novel in the dark and twisted Mafia Wars world
*Recommended 18+ due to mature language, adult situations, and sensitive content
There was a deal made to keep the peace. War wasn’t good for business. But deals were broken all the time. What did these powerful families have as collateral? Their daughters. A decade earlier, they decided that we were expendable, that we could be sold in marriage to keep their dealings honest. I didn’t matter more than the security I could bring to the marketplace. I was twelve when they decided that, in ten years, I’d belong to the Hernandez family. Everyone knew what was coming for me. Everyone…except me.
I have no choices. The daughter of mobsters, I now belong to the Mexican Cartel. But even the terrible images those words evoke are nothing compared to what is coming for me. My new family will discover I am more than just a pawn in their chess game. I'm named after a flower, but I don't wilt. I am determined to come out ahead in their Mafia Wars.
*Gunmetal Lily is a full-length reverse harem novel in the dark and twisted Mafia Wars world
*Recommended 18+ due to mature language, adult situations, and sensitive content
251 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 21, 2022
821 people are currently reading
6003 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Royce
193 books1,431 followersAuthor of science fiction, fantasy, and the paranormal.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 495 reviews
February 27, 2022
More of a 2.5 than 3.
So one thing I hate about stories are the inconsistencies between two books or more in a series of books.
The Mafia Wars is a series of 6 books written by different authors about a group of mafia heads who decide to marry off their daughters to each of their sons in order to maintain a sense of peace between them. They picked chits and decided which family's daughter would marry which family's son and this happened in book one. So each book begins with a daughter leaving her family and getting married to the leader/heir of another mafia family.
Here's my problem. In the first book it was clearly mentioned that everyone would get married during the same year and that they were waiting for one of the family's daughter to turn 18 before they did so. In this book, Lily marries into the Mexican cartel, who's daughter (Rose) marries into the Irish Mafia in book one. In book one Rose clearly knows that her elder brother is going back to their country to marry Lily as soon as her wedding is over.
And here in this book, Rose's brothers already know about her poly relationship before her eldest brother married Lily! Rose was married to her guy for months before she and her men made it official about being in a poly relationship. But in book 2 her brothers already know about everything before Lily entered their family, which is impossible according to book 1's timeline.
Okay maybe this isn't a big deal but it's stuff like this that irks me sometimes. If you're writing a series of books with several authors, don't you fact check with each other at least?
Other than this, the story was pretty good. Basic. Nice enough.
So one thing I hate about stories are the inconsistencies between two books or more in a series of books.
The Mafia Wars is a series of 6 books written by different authors about a group of mafia heads who decide to marry off their daughters to each of their sons in order to maintain a sense of peace between them. They picked chits and decided which family's daughter would marry which family's son and this happened in book one. So each book begins with a daughter leaving her family and getting married to the leader/heir of another mafia family.
Here's my problem. In the first book it was clearly mentioned that everyone would get married during the same year and that they were waiting for one of the family's daughter to turn 18 before they did so. In this book, Lily marries into the Mexican cartel, who's daughter (Rose) marries into the Irish Mafia in book one. In book one Rose clearly knows that her elder brother is going back to their country to marry Lily as soon as her wedding is over.
And here in this book, Rose's brothers already know about her poly relationship before her eldest brother married Lily! Rose was married to her guy for months before she and her men made it official about being in a poly relationship. But in book 2 her brothers already know about everything before Lily entered their family, which is impossible according to book 1's timeline.
Okay maybe this isn't a big deal but it's stuff like this that irks me sometimes. If you're writing a series of books with several authors, don't you fact check with each other at least?
Other than this, the story was pretty good. Basic. Nice enough.
March 4, 2022
The plot is good
The writing of each author and relationship development gets worse each book
The writing of each author and relationship development gets worse each book
June 7, 2023
This book isn’t terrible but it fell flat to me. I couldn’t relate to Lily at all so I struggled to understand her motivation for doing the things she did.
We’re told that she wasn’t aware she’d be married off until 24 hours before her wedding. This isn’t exactly uncommon practice in these types of books but her reaction seemed really off. She’s angry and bitter in her internal thoughts but is polite and easy going in her actual response.
She was treated very well so I appreciate that she wasn’t belligerent or difficult but why devote so much time her bitterness and anger if she’s going to be so easy going about everything. She’s very easy going.
She’s married and immediately dismissed to go to her new home with one of his brothers while hubby stays behind to do whatever mafia dudes do. They get to the apartment and she’s shown to her and hubby’s room but told they’ll only be roommates but given no reason why. She then immediately bangs hubby’s brother. She bangs the other brother the next day - still with no conversation between her and new hubby. Eventually she learns hubby is impotent because of past abuse when he was held hostage as a pre-teen boy.
The only one she has any chemistry with is the one she can’t bang. Don’t worry, they do eventually bang too. I actually did appreciate the bit with that part of the story. Unrealistic as it may be, I liked it.
What I didn’t like - we got at least 2 set ups they went nowhere. 1. She used to have anorexia and has a weird relationship to food. There’s hints of harem being concerned with her eating and a conversation between her and the doctor in the harem but nothing develops plot wise. 2. All of the women she meets that are wives of lieutenants. Obviously they wanted to befriend her even though none of them liked her and were all fake and jealous. Nothing ever came if it though.
It’s felt like the author ran out of time to write a more intricate story so she rushed to finish what she had leaving all these dangling possibilities.
Story 3/5, Heat 2/5, Angst 2/5
Fast burn, except for the one she’s actually married too. She doesn’t bang him til very near the end.
Condoms used, one virgin H, other two were reformed manwhores, no real OM/OW drama, no push away, separation at end due to kidnapping situation- 8 weeks. No cheating, no sharing outside harem, no cliffhanger and HEA
Safety - the two brothers get lots of interest from OW but they don’t entertain even the thought. It’s all very mild.
We’re told that she wasn’t aware she’d be married off until 24 hours before her wedding. This isn’t exactly uncommon practice in these types of books but her reaction seemed really off. She’s angry and bitter in her internal thoughts but is polite and easy going in her actual response.
She was treated very well so I appreciate that she wasn’t belligerent or difficult but why devote so much time her bitterness and anger if she’s going to be so easy going about everything. She’s very easy going.
She’s married and immediately dismissed to go to her new home with one of his brothers while hubby stays behind to do whatever mafia dudes do. They get to the apartment and she’s shown to her and hubby’s room but told they’ll only be roommates but given no reason why. She then immediately bangs hubby’s brother. She bangs the other brother the next day - still with no conversation between her and new hubby. Eventually she learns hubby is impotent because of past abuse when he was held hostage as a pre-teen boy.
The only one she has any chemistry with is the one she can’t bang. Don’t worry, they do eventually bang too. I actually did appreciate the bit with that part of the story. Unrealistic as it may be, I liked it.
What I didn’t like - we got at least 2 set ups they went nowhere. 1. She used to have anorexia and has a weird relationship to food. There’s hints of harem being concerned with her eating and a conversation between her and the doctor in the harem but nothing develops plot wise. 2. All of the women she meets that are wives of lieutenants. Obviously they wanted to befriend her even though none of them liked her and were all fake and jealous. Nothing ever came if it though.
It’s felt like the author ran out of time to write a more intricate story so she rushed to finish what she had leaving all these dangling possibilities.
Story 3/5, Heat 2/5, Angst 2/5
Fast burn, except for the one she’s actually married too. She doesn’t bang him til very near the end.
Condoms used, one virgin H, other two were reformed manwhores, no real OM/OW drama, no push away, separation at end due to kidnapping situation- 8 weeks. No cheating, no sharing outside harem, no cliffhanger and HEA
Safety - the two brothers get lots of interest from OW but they don’t entertain even the thought. It’s all very mild.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2022
Mixed feelings
3.8/5 stars
Dnf after 87%
In essence this book had a lot of stuff I potentially like. No ow drama, though 2 of the men had women interested in them and a sexually confident fmc (meaning also not a virgin).
But…honestly, I went through most of the book feeling like there was something missing. It wasn’t bad per say, just most of the characters fell kind of flat for me. It felt sort of like the emotions behind everything the characters did was muted or not there.
Particularly with the men, it almost felt like they were inexperienced actors acting out characters rather than the actual characters themselves. Like they were just caricatures of common RH tropes, the playboy (but there are unfortunately two) and the closed off one.
I don’t think I’m explaining it well but I felt a disconnect with them. I feel like this could have maybe been remedied if this story was multiple pov from the start, but instead we spend most of of the book in Lily’s head. Idk if it switched by the way because I stopped reading after the 87 % mark.
About 78 % into the book, I genuinely started liking Alejandro. I’ve had a soft spot for him ever sense finding out about his trauma and circumstances, but the other men. I liked them sort of, they were pretty sweet to Lily but I didn’t love them?
They were alright to me, there wasn’t really a build up in their relationship like there was with Alejandro. I’m all for fast burn smut, but they were also quick to fall in love and get attached before we even learned much about them or the fmc. We never really do honestly, I feel like they weren’t very fleshed out.
Because of that, it was kind of an insta love and lust situation between them and Lily, without there really being a blatant explanation for why there was that attraction.
For Lily, I wasn’t really sure about her up to the same point as Alejandro. But about 78 % in I ended up liking her a lot. She’s a little jaded at time ( All of the characters are if we are being honest) but she’s a bad ass in her own right. She’s a person that hold backs her tears and deals with her own inner demons. She doesn’t let her fear stop her from doing what needs to be done.
She’s also highly intelligent, and sexually confident (not a blushing virgin) which is a quality I like in an fmc.
So why did I dnf? Mood perhaps, or the fact that I didn’t care much for the other brothers? It’s an RH and I feel like I should care about more than one guy.
Unlike their brother (the fmc’s husband) I did not understand why they were so into the fmc. Not that she’s not likable but I just didn’t get their relationship. I got the sex part of it? But not the romantic part.
Also, I’m being nit picky at this point but idk why some authors have the men speak like this.
“Any one of them that I wanted, I had a long time ago. I’m not interested in other p**ssy Lily. Just yours.” — Francisco in reference to the jealous housewives in chapter 11.
Like the fmc isn’t a virgin herself and I don’t expect the men to be either, but was I supposed to find that line romantic? Like the whole first half of that sentence was unnecessary and could have been cut out, and it would have sounded just fine.
Nothing against this author, I’ve seen others have the men say something similar before and just have never found it romantic or necessary. Maybe people are into that? I’m not sure.
Anyway not a terrible read. Just not for me.
3.8/5 stars
Dnf after 87%
In essence this book had a lot of stuff I potentially like. No ow drama, though 2 of the men had women interested in them and a sexually confident fmc (meaning also not a virgin).
But…honestly, I went through most of the book feeling like there was something missing. It wasn’t bad per say, just most of the characters fell kind of flat for me. It felt sort of like the emotions behind everything the characters did was muted or not there.
Particularly with the men, it almost felt like they were inexperienced actors acting out characters rather than the actual characters themselves. Like they were just caricatures of common RH tropes, the playboy (but there are unfortunately two) and the closed off one.
I don’t think I’m explaining it well but I felt a disconnect with them. I feel like this could have maybe been remedied if this story was multiple pov from the start, but instead we spend most of of the book in Lily’s head. Idk if it switched by the way because I stopped reading after the 87 % mark.
About 78 % into the book, I genuinely started liking Alejandro. I’ve had a soft spot for him ever sense finding out about his trauma and circumstances, but the other men. I liked them sort of, they were pretty sweet to Lily but I didn’t love them?
They were alright to me, there wasn’t really a build up in their relationship like there was with Alejandro. I’m all for fast burn smut, but they were also quick to fall in love and get attached before we even learned much about them or the fmc. We never really do honestly, I feel like they weren’t very fleshed out.
Because of that, it was kind of an insta love and lust situation between them and Lily, without there really being a blatant explanation for why there was that attraction.
For Lily, I wasn’t really sure about her up to the same point as Alejandro. But about 78 % in I ended up liking her a lot. She’s a little jaded at time ( All of the characters are if we are being honest) but she’s a bad ass in her own right. She’s a person that hold backs her tears and deals with her own inner demons. She doesn’t let her fear stop her from doing what needs to be done.
She’s also highly intelligent, and sexually confident (not a blushing virgin) which is a quality I like in an fmc.
So why did I dnf? Mood perhaps, or the fact that I didn’t care much for the other brothers? It’s an RH and I feel like I should care about more than one guy.
Unlike their brother (the fmc’s husband) I did not understand why they were so into the fmc. Not that she’s not likable but I just didn’t get their relationship. I got the sex part of it? But not the romantic part.
Also, I’m being nit picky at this point but idk why some authors have the men speak like this.
“Any one of them that I wanted, I had a long time ago. I’m not interested in other p**ssy Lily. Just yours.” — Francisco in reference to the jealous housewives in chapter 11.
Like the fmc isn’t a virgin herself and I don’t expect the men to be either, but was I supposed to find that line romantic? Like the whole first half of that sentence was unnecessary and could have been cut out, and it would have sounded just fine.
Nothing against this author, I’ve seen others have the men say something similar before and just have never found it romantic or necessary. Maybe people are into that? I’m not sure.
Anyway not a terrible read. Just not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2022
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 3.5/5 stars
POV : Multiple
Cliffhanger : None
Heroine : Lily
Pace of the story : Moderate
Review :
Six mafia families, six daughters and six arranged marriages. There was only one way to ensure peace amount the mafia families. With years of war and losses they were all ready to burn it down and have some quiet. Sacrificing their daughters seemed the right way to the idiots.
Lily was one such sacrifice. She had to marry into another family. With her brothers betraying her and her other family hating her, there is so much that can go wrong.
I am totally loving this mafia world by these authors. However this book by Rebecca felt a bit flat to me. I liked the romance but ended up dragging myself to finish. There were less twists and no angst for me to hold onto and that made it a bit boring. Although I am totally excited for the other books of this series because this concept has me intrigued!
Website | Bookstagram | Facebook Page | Newsletter
February 25, 2025
No. Just no. I wanted to force myself to read this till the end but I just no. I dnfed this at 39%. The MFC was just written so blandly and I disliked her tbh. I did not like the writing style at all. Way to fast for me. The character connection building was so badly and quickly written. Good plot, very badly executed imo. I recommend skipping this book in the series and saving your time.
I get this is a dark reverse harem romance book but wtf you've known each other for not even 24h and you're fucking all the brothers one after the other? Take a deep breath girlie they won't run away smh. I was really hoping this book would have been better because I was really excited to meet Francisco but I was really disappointed.
I get this is a dark reverse harem romance book but wtf you've known each other for not even 24h and you're fucking all the brothers one after the other? Take a deep breath girlie they won't run away smh. I was really hoping this book would have been better because I was really excited to meet Francisco but I was really disappointed.
July 14, 2023
This was the first FMC i read about who had a cosmetic surgery so that was new! It was much better than the previous book i read in this series, but it was still pretty meh
January 30, 2022
The book was good and I think it had really good premise but at the same time it would have been better as series with more angst and more relationship development.🙂
And guessing for that reason, I couldn't fully connect..
And guessing for that reason, I couldn't fully connect..
March 19, 2022
RH Arranged Mafia Marriage
My word this is a very good book, you have your Basic Arranged Mafia Marriage and then you add in RH to make it more interesting. So we have the daughter of the Chicago Mob getting married to the Heir to the Mexican Cartel. Also intimately involved are the two brothers to the heir.
My word this is a very good book, you have your Basic Arranged Mafia Marriage and then you add in RH to make it more interesting. So we have the daughter of the Chicago Mob getting married to the Heir to the Mexican Cartel. Also intimately involved are the two brothers to the heir.
January 26, 2022
4.5/5 ⭐️
I am really enjoying the shared Mafia Wars world! Gunmetal Lily is the second book and can be read as a stand-alone but I suggest reading Binding Rose first for context and background.
This was a fast burn/insta-love situation but it was done in a non-corny way in my opinion. Lily is a strong female character that you instantly connect with. I love Alejandro- he has a ridged past and so he’s a bit standoff-ish but not in an asshole type of way. Their need to comfort each other and their easy friendship was great. The brothers knew they wanted Lily from the start and I loved it.
“There isn’t anything besides death that would take me from you, and even then, I would wait for you on the other side.”
The plot twist at the end was a bit of a shocker for me. 🤐 If you know, you know.
I felt like we were led up to the capture scene and it was skimmed over. I wish we would’ve gotten more of that bits to make the book a bit darker/gut wrenching but overall I really enjoyed it! Can’t wait for the third one!
I am really enjoying the shared Mafia Wars world! Gunmetal Lily is the second book and can be read as a stand-alone but I suggest reading Binding Rose first for context and background.
This was a fast burn/insta-love situation but it was done in a non-corny way in my opinion. Lily is a strong female character that you instantly connect with. I love Alejandro- he has a ridged past and so he’s a bit standoff-ish but not in an asshole type of way. Their need to comfort each other and their easy friendship was great. The brothers knew they wanted Lily from the start and I loved it.
“There isn’t anything besides death that would take me from you, and even then, I would wait for you on the other side.”
The plot twist at the end was a bit of a shocker for me. 🤐 If you know, you know.
I felt like we were led up to the capture scene and it was skimmed over. I wish we would’ve gotten more of that bits to make the book a bit darker/gut wrenching but overall I really enjoyed it! Can’t wait for the third one!
January 16, 2022
Instant attraction for some of them. She is 22 and all the guys are older but no huge age gap. She was not a virgin and doesn’t view sex as some sacred thing which was refreshing. Single POV with a short chapter from each brother. I fell absolutely in love with these Hernandez brothers and really enjoyed Lily as well. So far, loving how different each family and situation the girl ends up in is. Love the cliches of mafia romances but also love when they each have something that makes them a little different especially within this shared world series.
February 10, 2022
Gunmetal Lily by Rebecca Royce is a standalone reverse harem novel, which forms part of the Mafia Wars world. This is technically the second book in the world, but they can be read in any order.
Lily’s story had me hooked from page one. The story moved fast as all the pieces to Lily’s new life with her husband Alejandro Hernandez and his brothers - Javier and Francisco fall into place.
Lily has backbone, but is also smart enough to know that the man she was promised to is dangerous, along with his brothers. Each man has his own limits before he’ll explode, as well as his own weaknesses. They are after all the sons of one of the Mexican Cartel bosses, and with Alejandro as the heir his responsibilities are vast, but his brothers are there with him each step. Now Lily is part of that inner circle, but she will need to work for it.
The way the relationships develop are perfectly written and show the initial interest from each of the characters as well as the barriers being let down to trust. Trust is a massive part of this story, and the way the storyline flows and the situations unfold you’ll realise how important it is.
Even though this story is just from Lily’s POV, there’s more than enough written on the page to allow you insight into the other characters.
As you’d expect with a mafia romance there’s plenty of secrets, violence and possessive men to tick all the boxes for lovers of this genre.
Gunmetal Lily is an arranged marriage story, which begins at the altar in Mexico.
Each of these books can be read as a standalone and in any order, but the world is interconnected and there is mention of other characters briefly in the stories. These are noted as dark romance and do have some triggers.
Side note: The preface is captivating and the words flow so seamlessly that it will hook you. This is the same in each of the books, but I couldn’t not mention it as it sums up the world.
Lily’s story had me hooked from page one. The story moved fast as all the pieces to Lily’s new life with her husband Alejandro Hernandez and his brothers - Javier and Francisco fall into place.
Lily has backbone, but is also smart enough to know that the man she was promised to is dangerous, along with his brothers. Each man has his own limits before he’ll explode, as well as his own weaknesses. They are after all the sons of one of the Mexican Cartel bosses, and with Alejandro as the heir his responsibilities are vast, but his brothers are there with him each step. Now Lily is part of that inner circle, but she will need to work for it.
The way the relationships develop are perfectly written and show the initial interest from each of the characters as well as the barriers being let down to trust. Trust is a massive part of this story, and the way the storyline flows and the situations unfold you’ll realise how important it is.
Even though this story is just from Lily’s POV, there’s more than enough written on the page to allow you insight into the other characters.
As you’d expect with a mafia romance there’s plenty of secrets, violence and possessive men to tick all the boxes for lovers of this genre.
Gunmetal Lily is an arranged marriage story, which begins at the altar in Mexico.
Each of these books can be read as a standalone and in any order, but the world is interconnected and there is mention of other characters briefly in the stories. These are noted as dark romance and do have some triggers.
Side note: The preface is captivating and the words flow so seamlessly that it will hook you. This is the same in each of the books, but I couldn’t not mention it as it sums up the world.
February 9, 2022
4.5 - second book in the Mafia War
When I started this book, I didn’t know if I was going to like it or not. The spice was there (maybe a 3/5 🌶) and it was detailed but also kind of vague and not as detailed as I love, and especially because the relationship between the characters was really unusual.
As in, everyone was nice to everyone, they didn’t like the situation they were in but they owned it and had no hard feelings for each other, they were genuinely kind so there was not as tension as in books where they are enemies to lovers, or when the FMC is kidnapped or something else but I actually really liked it ! It was really refreshing !
I liked how they were so natural with each other and I loved loved loved Alejandro’s and Lily’s relationship !
When I started this book, I didn’t know if I was going to like it or not. The spice was there (maybe a 3/5 🌶) and it was detailed but also kind of vague and not as detailed as I love, and especially because the relationship between the characters was really unusual.
As in, everyone was nice to everyone, they didn’t like the situation they were in but they owned it and had no hard feelings for each other, they were genuinely kind so there was not as tension as in books where they are enemies to lovers, or when the FMC is kidnapped or something else but I actually really liked it ! It was really refreshing !
I liked how they were so natural with each other and I loved loved loved Alejandro’s and Lily’s relationship !
November 6, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was like a perfectly brewed cup of coffee—short, sweet, and exactly what I needed! Sometimes you just want a solid, no-drama, “why choose” romance without all the unnecessary baggage, and this one delivered. Alejandro was such a refreshing change of pace—no ridiculous issues or alpha theatrics to put Lily through. He’s just there, ready to care for her like the king he is!
The whole crew immediately took each other in with this heartwarming “us against the world” vibe that made me wish I could join their little family. Sure, the climax was a bit quick, but honestly, I was so hooked by then I barely noticed.
I’m genuinely sad this one’s over. I could have spent way more time with this diverse, love-filled crew. If you’re looking for a feel-good “why choose” that skips the drama and brings the love, grab this book!
This book was like a perfectly brewed cup of coffee—short, sweet, and exactly what I needed! Sometimes you just want a solid, no-drama, “why choose” romance without all the unnecessary baggage, and this one delivered. Alejandro was such a refreshing change of pace—no ridiculous issues or alpha theatrics to put Lily through. He’s just there, ready to care for her like the king he is!
The whole crew immediately took each other in with this heartwarming “us against the world” vibe that made me wish I could join their little family. Sure, the climax was a bit quick, but honestly, I was so hooked by then I barely noticed.
I’m genuinely sad this one’s over. I could have spent way more time with this diverse, love-filled crew. If you’re looking for a feel-good “why choose” that skips the drama and brings the love, grab this book!
January 25, 2022
Ok, siento que todo pasó como de chingadazo y mucha parte del libro se centró como en dos-tres días así que de repente sí tuve mis momentos de huh?!. Me hubiera gustado leer la perspectiva de Alejandro, Javier y Francisco más y no sólo al final. Lily fue, como personaje, fresca por no llevar la típica trope de virginidad y así, entonces fue un cambio bueno. En fin, Mafia Wars sigue siendo un mundo que me intriga.
February 8, 2022
I felt the ending was a bit rushed.
March 14, 2022
Steam: 3.5/5. Strong Language: 3.5/5. Triggers: Violence, Murder, Torture, Assault, Rape, Child Abuse, Drugs
This is the third in the Maria Wars reverse harem novels. The leaders (men, of course) of the six largest mob families hold a meeting to discuss an accord between them and settle the peace. It's decided the best way to do this is to ally their families. Each boss will give his daughter in marriage to the heir presumptive son of another boss in ten years time. Lots are drawn, dies are cast, and these girl's fates are sealed by their enemies.
Boston – The Irish Mafia The Kelly Family Mexico City – The Mexican Cartel The Hernandez Family New York – La Cosa Nostra – Italian Mafia The Rossi Family Chicago – The Outfit Syndicate – Italian Mafia The Moretti Family London – The Firm – English Mafia The Butcher Family Vegas – The Bratva – Russian Mafia The Volkov Family
This story focuses on Lily Moretti. Lily marries into the Hernandez cartel of Mexico City. This is a shock to her as she was a 22 year old anthropology college student in Chicago one day and the next, her brother (the Don of the Cosa Nostra) told her she was getting married and moving to Mexico. Oh yeah, and she got one days notice.
Alejandro Hernandez is the heir apparent to his father’s syndicate. His brothers Francisco and Javier are his right and left hands. They plan to ‘share’ Lily. The arrangements may be unconventional but there are reasons. These are hot blooded, possessive men and they know how to treat a lady but danger and betrayal lurk around every corner.
I really loved this novel for the relationship aspects of the book. Character development and story was important and extremely well done. The writing was great.
The interaction between Lily and Alejandro was a joy to read. Their burgeoning friendship was a delight and something that is often overlooked. I really enjoyed this aspect.
What I didn’t like: Inconsistency between the series of books. In book one, Francisco is named Francesco. This book states that Lily and Alejo didn’t have anything to do with the treaty but in the 1st book, Alejo was in the room when to happened. Also, Alejo was getting married the same day as his sister Rosa so, there’s no way he could have known things about her marriage in the time frame described here. I’m an OCD reader. I know this. If you’re going to do a connecting series, check your facts.
#BANGReadingChallenge
5 ⭐ I loved it. I’ll revisit it like an old friend. This book is moving right into my favorites category. I would recommend it to everyone, even people that don’t ask. I’ll one click this author’s work in the future.
4 ⭐ A great read. I’ll probably reread again when feeling nostalgic. It was enjoyable, not portable magic. I would recommend it.
3 ⭐ I liked it. It was a nice way to pass the time. I doubt I’ll reread it. I’d recommend it to someone asking for a specific genre. Thanks for the memories.
2 ⭐ I completed the Herculean task of finishing this book. At times, it felt like I was Prometheus and the suffering would never end. It just wasn’t for me but I applaud the author for their effort.
1 ⭐ I couldn’t finish this book or I wish I hadn't finished. How do I put this? It’s not me, it’s you.
This is the third in the Maria Wars reverse harem novels. The leaders (men, of course) of the six largest mob families hold a meeting to discuss an accord between them and settle the peace. It's decided the best way to do this is to ally their families. Each boss will give his daughter in marriage to the heir presumptive son of another boss in ten years time. Lots are drawn, dies are cast, and these girl's fates are sealed by their enemies.
Boston – The Irish Mafia The Kelly Family Mexico City – The Mexican Cartel The Hernandez Family New York – La Cosa Nostra – Italian Mafia The Rossi Family Chicago – The Outfit Syndicate – Italian Mafia The Moretti Family London – The Firm – English Mafia The Butcher Family Vegas – The Bratva – Russian Mafia The Volkov Family
This story focuses on Lily Moretti. Lily marries into the Hernandez cartel of Mexico City. This is a shock to her as she was a 22 year old anthropology college student in Chicago one day and the next, her brother (the Don of the Cosa Nostra) told her she was getting married and moving to Mexico. Oh yeah, and she got one days notice.
Alejandro Hernandez is the heir apparent to his father’s syndicate. His brothers Francisco and Javier are his right and left hands. They plan to ‘share’ Lily. The arrangements may be unconventional but there are reasons. These are hot blooded, possessive men and they know how to treat a lady but danger and betrayal lurk around every corner.
I really loved this novel for the relationship aspects of the book. Character development and story was important and extremely well done. The writing was great.
The interaction between Lily and Alejandro was a joy to read. Their burgeoning friendship was a delight and something that is often overlooked. I really enjoyed this aspect.
What I didn’t like: Inconsistency between the series of books. In book one, Francisco is named Francesco. This book states that Lily and Alejo didn’t have anything to do with the treaty but in the 1st book, Alejo was in the room when to happened. Also, Alejo was getting married the same day as his sister Rosa so, there’s no way he could have known things about her marriage in the time frame described here. I’m an OCD reader. I know this. If you’re going to do a connecting series, check your facts.
#BANGReadingChallenge
5 ⭐ I loved it. I’ll revisit it like an old friend. This book is moving right into my favorites category. I would recommend it to everyone, even people that don’t ask. I’ll one click this author’s work in the future.
4 ⭐ A great read. I’ll probably reread again when feeling nostalgic. It was enjoyable, not portable magic. I would recommend it.
3 ⭐ I liked it. It was a nice way to pass the time. I doubt I’ll reread it. I’d recommend it to someone asking for a specific genre. Thanks for the memories.
2 ⭐ I completed the Herculean task of finishing this book. At times, it felt like I was Prometheus and the suffering would never end. It just wasn’t for me but I applaud the author for their effort.
1 ⭐ I couldn’t finish this book or I wish I hadn't finished. How do I put this? It’s not me, it’s you.
January 21, 2022
Okay, loved this book. I love how the protagonist is just such a strong woman. Literally comes into a difficult situation without preparation, and she just owns it.
So many books with mafia or similar tropes, the women just become doormats, and thats definitely not a problem in this one.
Another thing that I love is the fact that we have a multi-layered individual with her own insecurities and desires, and the same goes for her love interests. So many times, I'll read a RH book, and it seems that all the love interests just are similar to the point where they all blend together. That's not what happens here.
Read this book, you won't regret it.
So many books with mafia or similar tropes, the women just become doormats, and thats definitely not a problem in this one.
Another thing that I love is the fact that we have a multi-layered individual with her own insecurities and desires, and the same goes for her love interests. So many times, I'll read a RH book, and it seems that all the love interests just are similar to the point where they all blend together. That's not what happens here.
Read this book, you won't regret it.
January 27, 2024
So far, I’ve the first and third Book of this Series and I have to say that this one, was my least favorite. The relationship between her and her husband developed really good and in an realistic way. But I think the relationships with the other boys were just too quickly build. The plot was predictable from the beginning and it didn’t make much of a change in the story. All in all it was cute and sweet and it wasn’t a bad read.
dnf
January 18, 2023I was not liking the writing at all, so I gave up on this around chapter 1.
August 6, 2024
this book made me hate myself.
October 20, 2024
Reseña en español:
La verdad es que no me gustó mucho el libro. Cargaron demasiada información en pocas páginas, lo que lo hizo sentir apresurado en comparación con el primero. Lili tenía problemas de alimentación y autoestima, pero ninguno de los tres chicos se dio cuenta. Era como si los autores lo hicieran visible, pero ellos permanecieron ignorantes durante todo el libro. De repente, sus problemas desaparecieron y empezó a comer normalmente. Me gustó que este libro tuviera una trama más entretenida, con el secuestro y el intento de asesinato de Lili. El enamoramiento de Francisco y Javier estaba mejor desarrollado que en el libro anterior, pero aún faltaba profundidad.
El personaje principal, Alejandro, era extraño en sí mismo. Me llamó la atención que después de tener relaciones sexuales con Lili, los personajes masculinos parecían enamorarse de ella de inmediato. Era como si la intimidad física fuera la única razón para su enamoramiento.
Además, Rosa apenas se mencionaba, a pesar de que ella protegía a Francisco, su hermano favorito. Sin embargo, Francisco se retrató como el matón en este libro, lo que carecía de coherencia con el anterior. Los libros supuestamente ocurrieron en paralelo, pero Alejandro sabía que Rosa ya estaba enamorada a mitad del libro, mientras que Rosa aún estaba peleada con los otros. No tenía sentido.
A pesar de estos problemas, me gusta el tema de la mafia y seguiré leyendo la serie.
Review en inglés:
Honestly, I didn't enjoy the book much. They crammed too much information into too few pages, making it feel rushed compared to the first book. Lili struggled with eating disorders and self-esteem issues, but none of the three guys noticed. It was as if the authors made it visible, but they remained oblivious throughout the book. Suddenly, her issues vanished, and she started eating normally. I liked that this book had a more engaging plot, with Lili's kidnapping and attempted murder. Francisco and Javier's infatuation was better developed than in the previous book, but still lacked depth.
The main character, Alejandro, was odd in himself. I found it peculiar that after having sex with Lili, the male characters seemed to fall in love with her instantly. It was as if physical intimacy was the sole reason for their infatuation.
Additionally, Rosa was barely mentioned, despite protecting her favorite brother, Francisco. However, Francisco was portrayed as the bully in this book, which lacked coherence with the previous one. The books supposedly ran parallel, but Alejandro knew Rosa was already in love halfway through, while Rosa was still fighting with the others. It didn't make sense.
Despite these issues, I enjoy the mafia theme and will continue reading the series.
January 25, 2022
"Bad men on the streets, but they know how to change the sheets." 🤣 - I want myself one of those 😜
This is book two in the mafia wars series, each written by a different, amazing author. This book is by Rebecca Royce. This time around it is Lilys turn to go through with her arranged marriage to keep the agreement between all of the mafia families. Lily is off to Mexico cartel to marry Alejandro. This story doesnt hang around, we get straight down to business with their wedding... let's just say I didn't see their wedding night turning out quite like it did 🤣🤣 bloody loved it though haha... that brings me onto Francisco AKA lilys role model 🤣 he had me snorting with laughter, the back and forth between him and Lily was everything. He is so blunt and straight to the point it was hilarious and refreshing! Lily bounced of him, she is fiery and says what she wants without taking the time to think it through. I actually really enjoyed Lilys character 🙌🏻 .. next is Javier, never judge a book by its cover! 🥰 I loved Javier and everything about him. Got any room on your patients list? 😉😂 I am thoroughly enjoying this Mafia Wars world so far. Bring on the next!!
"Lily. Something is happening that never happens." 🤣😭 I was crying with laughter. Hilarious. If you know, you know!
This is book two in the mafia wars series, each written by a different, amazing author. This book is by Rebecca Royce. This time around it is Lilys turn to go through with her arranged marriage to keep the agreement between all of the mafia families. Lily is off to Mexico cartel to marry Alejandro. This story doesnt hang around, we get straight down to business with their wedding... let's just say I didn't see their wedding night turning out quite like it did 🤣🤣 bloody loved it though haha... that brings me onto Francisco AKA lilys role model 🤣 he had me snorting with laughter, the back and forth between him and Lily was everything. He is so blunt and straight to the point it was hilarious and refreshing! Lily bounced of him, she is fiery and says what she wants without taking the time to think it through. I actually really enjoyed Lilys character 🙌🏻 .. next is Javier, never judge a book by its cover! 🥰 I loved Javier and everything about him. Got any room on your patients list? 😉😂 I am thoroughly enjoying this Mafia Wars world so far. Bring on the next!!
"Lily. Something is happening that never happens." 🤣😭 I was crying with laughter. Hilarious. If you know, you know!
January 25, 2022
brilliant addition to what’s shaping up as a great series
I loved this book! What more can I say? This is once again a reverse harem mafia book with the forced/ arranged marriage trope. But I can tell you that this book isn’t like the previous. This isn’t the virgin trope and Lily isn’t the ‘innocent bride being corrupted’.
When we meet Alejandro in Binding Rose we only see a slither of his personality. In this book he’s still brooding but the softer side that we see in this book, yesss!!
Lily has sass! She might be married to the leader of the Mexican Cartel but I love her blurting out what she’s thinking and not being a wilting flower. She has brains and she’s not necessarily afraid to be who she is.
I think that each brother fits perfectly to a different side of our leading lady and I, for once, don’t have a set favourite! I guess that means I’ll have to add all three to my ever growing list of fictional boyfriends.
This is the second book of 6 planned in this overlapping world and if the first two show the standard of writing and story for the rest, we are all in for a treat!
I loved this book! What more can I say? This is once again a reverse harem mafia book with the forced/ arranged marriage trope. But I can tell you that this book isn’t like the previous. This isn’t the virgin trope and Lily isn’t the ‘innocent bride being corrupted’.
When we meet Alejandro in Binding Rose we only see a slither of his personality. In this book he’s still brooding but the softer side that we see in this book, yesss!!
Lily has sass! She might be married to the leader of the Mexican Cartel but I love her blurting out what she’s thinking and not being a wilting flower. She has brains and she’s not necessarily afraid to be who she is.
I think that each brother fits perfectly to a different side of our leading lady and I, for once, don’t have a set favourite! I guess that means I’ll have to add all three to my ever growing list of fictional boyfriends.
This is the second book of 6 planned in this overlapping world and if the first two show the standard of writing and story for the rest, we are all in for a treat!
January 17, 2022
Lily is the exact description of an English Rose and she was made in a life of pain and torture.
As much as her family have given her free rein to create a normal life, this was only on a temporary basis. Ten years after the meeting of six mafia gangs agreed to use their daughters as pawns and wed them to another rival family, Lily would then be a bird trapped in someones else's cage.
She's now living a life she never asked for, married to a Mexican Mafia lord who only wants her for the title of "wife", a new family who barely speaks English and two brothers-in-law who find no issue in hitting on their brother's wife. Except Lily's new husband doesn't mind sharing and to Lily's surprise neither does she.
This sequel is another great RH in the mafia wars series, perfect as a standalone or in order.
As much as her family have given her free rein to create a normal life, this was only on a temporary basis. Ten years after the meeting of six mafia gangs agreed to use their daughters as pawns and wed them to another rival family, Lily would then be a bird trapped in someones else's cage.
She's now living a life she never asked for, married to a Mexican Mafia lord who only wants her for the title of "wife", a new family who barely speaks English and two brothers-in-law who find no issue in hitting on their brother's wife. Except Lily's new husband doesn't mind sharing and to Lily's surprise neither does she.
This sequel is another great RH in the mafia wars series, perfect as a standalone or in order.
January 28, 2022
I really struggle with writing negative things about books, especially as I know authors put so much work in their stories.
I will tell you what I loved first; A strong lead female. I loved seeing Lily's relationships grow, especially with her husband. I loved how the trust between those two grew....she gave him her tears and well he gave her his erection.
I struggled with the way some bits were written, maybe another edit would cover that, it seemed a little jumpy and there were a few grammar issues.
I liked the story. I liked how nice they were to Lily. I just didn't love it....and I hate that I think it.
I will definitely try another book from this author.
I will tell you what I loved first; A strong lead female. I loved seeing Lily's relationships grow, especially with her husband. I loved how the trust between those two grew....she gave him her tears and well he gave her his erection.
I struggled with the way some bits were written, maybe another edit would cover that, it seemed a little jumpy and there were a few grammar issues.
I liked the story. I liked how nice they were to Lily. I just didn't love it....and I hate that I think it.
I will definitely try another book from this author.
January 24, 2022
I’m really loving this shared Mafia Wars world. Gunmetal Lily is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone, however I suggest starting with Binding Rose for background and context.
Lily is from the Italian Mafia in Chicago and is sent to Mexico to marry the head of the Cartel, Alejandro. We know it’s RH so I’m not giving anything away by sharing that Lily enters into a relationship with Alejandro’s brothers, Javier and Francisco. I enjoyed the story and liked the characters, especially Alejandro and Javier, who were both intriguing and original. My main critique with this book is that I felt it needed another 100 pages or so. I did not get the character connection nor the relationship development I wanted. At one point one of the relationships had progressed to a point where it felt like weeks had passed but it was only two days. This can happen with standalone RH which is why I’m particular about the page count.
Despite the insta-love and lack of character development I still really enjoyed this book. The plot is engaging and exciting, and the steamy scenes were written well. I’m really looking forward to the next book in this shared world!
Lily is from the Italian Mafia in Chicago and is sent to Mexico to marry the head of the Cartel, Alejandro. We know it’s RH so I’m not giving anything away by sharing that Lily enters into a relationship with Alejandro’s brothers, Javier and Francisco. I enjoyed the story and liked the characters, especially Alejandro and Javier, who were both intriguing and original. My main critique with this book is that I felt it needed another 100 pages or so. I did not get the character connection nor the relationship development I wanted. At one point one of the relationships had progressed to a point where it felt like weeks had passed but it was only two days. This can happen with standalone RH which is why I’m particular about the page count.
Despite the insta-love and lack of character development I still really enjoyed this book. The plot is engaging and exciting, and the steamy scenes were written well. I’m really looking forward to the next book in this shared world!
January 27, 2022
Gunmetal Lily
When I started this book I wasn't sure if I was gonna like it. The beginning kind of threw me off. I guess I had expectations from how awesome book one was. After the initial start to the book things slowly got better. I liked the characters and the storyline but I feel like it still lacked something. Definitely had potential to be 5 stars instead of 4 stars from me.
When I started this book I wasn't sure if I was gonna like it. The beginning kind of threw me off. I guess I had expectations from how awesome book one was. After the initial start to the book things slowly got better. I liked the characters and the storyline but I feel like it still lacked something. Definitely had potential to be 5 stars instead of 4 stars from me.
March 24, 2022
Not much I can say about this book .... Don't get me wrong i enjoyed it but I didn't enjoy it that much. I don't know I just felt that it was just too predictable and I felt the ending was really rushed. I thought the main MC could have been better they all seemed pretty tame and a bit whipped 🙈. But like I said I'm not totally hating on it as it did have its moments that I was like awwwh I liked that ect
March 14, 2022
spicy rh mafia
I really enjoyed this book in the mafia wars world! I think the beginning was a little slow but I loved the mafia aspects, the suspense, the spice, and the story! Lily was super quirky and bold I loved it. Her men were each different and I loved that we got something from each of them.
I really enjoyed this book in the mafia wars world! I think the beginning was a little slow but I loved the mafia aspects, the suspense, the spice, and the story! Lily was super quirky and bold I loved it. Her men were each different and I loved that we got something from each of them.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 495 reviews