What do you think?
Rate this book
Misfire
I never wanted to rule an empire. I was a housekeeper. A hooker. A wrecked woman with a past full of scars and secrets. A chance encounter with an Astor swept me into the hurricane of their glamorous, organized crime world. Then, I met the other Astor brother, and nothing will ever be normal again.
One brother saved me but under false pretenses.
One brother is madly in love with me, but it’s complicated.
I’ve fallen for both men for different reasons, but there’s only one way this can end—in messy, tragic destruction.
Everyone tells you playing with fire is dangerous, but they never said it would be this intoxicating.
For readers 18+
One brother saved me but under false pretenses.
One brother is madly in love with me, but it’s complicated.
I’ve fallen for both men for different reasons, but there’s only one way this can end—in messy, tragic destruction.
Everyone tells you playing with fire is dangerous, but they never said it would be this intoxicating.
For readers 18+
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 6, 2023
10 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Robinson
35 books1,548 followersRachel grew up in a small, quiet town full of loud talkers. Her words were always only loud on paper. She has been writing stories and creating characters for as long as she can remember. After living on the west coast for many years she now resides in Colorado with her husband, two children, her hairless cat, and her dog, Polly.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
February 18, 2025
Misfire was an unexpectedly salacious and mysterious treat! I live for dark mafia, and the premise intrigued….though I must admit, I somehow missed the love triangle aspect (it’s one of my no tropes usually and I avoid them if I know they are coming) until I was far too into it. But fortunately, the love triangle is the more palpable kind, for me at least…meaning there is one guy who clearly is the “right” guy and one who isn’t. But it’s REALLY hard to figure that out until much later in the story. And the twists in this one be twisting- it’s quite unique. Definitely had me turning the pages- I’m not sure I’ve read anything quite like it. This story is alluring and gripping- and definitely plot thick.
We’re thrust in the midst of a story with our heroine Drew, poor hotel maid by day and sex worker by night, just trying to make ends meet. With a bit of luck, and a bit of curiosity kills the cat type boldness, she finds herself suddenly immersed into the world of neighboring artist Jesse… who very easily makes her an offer she can’t refuse. It’s a little pretty woman…minus the sex. He just wants her to be his exclusive maid and assistant. Yeh, it’s a little sus- but Jesse makes no secret about wanting her for maybe more, and turns out he’s not just an artist. He’s a #2 in the Astor mafia empire, with his adopted brother Riley at the helm. And turns our Riley and Jesse share everything…not just their business interests. And Drew might be the perfect girlfriend for them both. BUT, there’s way more going on here than we know. And, turns out their usually dynamic isn’t quite working either- jealous between the brothers starts to complicate things.
I’ll admit, at first the story was super disorienting. After a flashback that we’re not quite sure what it means, and then you’re just hit with a whole bunch of WTF moments. Jessie is a little too mysterious, Riley seems to “good” for a mafioso, and Drew is frankly way too damn chill about basically all of it. But, I guess desperate times call for go with the flow type choices- and she certainly is getting some perks for their weird and unexplained dynamic, both of the material and the sexy type.
The narrative here is intentionally elusive. The characters don’t quite always give us their truths, we’re missing basic details and context (on purpose, at least at first)- in part to keep us as confused as Drew is just about what the brothers want, how they operate, and what they are up to. That works and really sets a vibe…up until the end, when I feel like the wool-pulling warranted a bit more clarity in terms of answers.
The characters are certainly interesting, if not fully fleshed out in places. Ultimately this was really barrelling towards a great 5 star read for me but I felt like we didn’t get get as much substance as the story evolved as I wanted, more authentic chemistry outside of what we’re told to believe. (the falling felt way too fast, undeveloped...instalovey almost). It felt like there were chances to really up more emotional layers in the romantic chemistry outside of feeling "called to" and safe with them. And there are so many twists and reveals at the end that I felt like the strings weren’t quite wrapped up as satisfying as I wanted. Maybe that’s okay- it’s a messy story, with a messy ending….but I feel like there are things that weren’t fully explained. The romantic ending was satisfying, and another delectable twist.
This is definitely heavy on the love triangle- it’s a core part of the dynamic- and the brothers go into with throuple intentions that get derailed. SO, if that’s not your thing take note. Again, I usually detest love triangles - it’s not the kind of romantic angst I prefer- but here it worked for because the relationships served two very different purposes. Despite me having a clear favorite from the start, both men are an array of juxtapositions and mystery. Jesse is broken and edgy, full of intensity and volatility and passion. Riley is shockingly like a soft mafioso- more swoony and gentle, level and steady. They foil each other nicely and both speak to parts of Drew. Drew seems at odds with herself and her needs for a lot of the story, and she’s so love starved that even when a clear choice is inevitable early on (at least to me it was clear whose love was right for her), she waffles…not only bc of her own decisions but because of what they ask of her. But again, the triangle worked for me because it’s resolved in a way that feels like there is truly only one “match for her”- her love grows much stronger for one man than the other. (and spoiler- she DOES only end up with one, by choice)
And outside of the love story we have LOT of mafia action and danger. Some heavy mind games and like I said, lots of twists. While I wish the back half had a bit more development in a few places, I did still really enjoy this story- the concept is great, the relationship dynamics unique and yummy, and the edge just sharp enough to pierce but not so dark that it’s unromantic. All in all, a solid read and definitely has me wanting to check out this author more.
🖤Mafia
🖤Love Triangle (with sharing, but ends MF)
🖤Cinderella Story/Rags to Riches (maid/prostitute x rich mafia bosses)
🖤Suspense/Mystery/Thriller
🖤Traumatic Pasts
🖤Auction/Trafficking
🖤Lots of Twists
🖤Boxing
🖤J/P Heroes
🖤Anti-Heroes
We’re thrust in the midst of a story with our heroine Drew, poor hotel maid by day and sex worker by night, just trying to make ends meet. With a bit of luck, and a bit of curiosity kills the cat type boldness, she finds herself suddenly immersed into the world of neighboring artist Jesse… who very easily makes her an offer she can’t refuse. It’s a little pretty woman…minus the sex. He just wants her to be his exclusive maid and assistant. Yeh, it’s a little sus- but Jesse makes no secret about wanting her for maybe more, and turns out he’s not just an artist. He’s a #2 in the Astor mafia empire, with his adopted brother Riley at the helm. And turns our Riley and Jesse share everything…not just their business interests. And Drew might be the perfect girlfriend for them both. BUT, there’s way more going on here than we know. And, turns out their usually dynamic isn’t quite working either- jealous between the brothers starts to complicate things.
I’ll admit, at first the story was super disorienting. After a flashback that we’re not quite sure what it means, and then you’re just hit with a whole bunch of WTF moments. Jessie is a little too mysterious, Riley seems to “good” for a mafioso, and Drew is frankly way too damn chill about basically all of it. But, I guess desperate times call for go with the flow type choices- and she certainly is getting some perks for their weird and unexplained dynamic, both of the material and the sexy type.
The narrative here is intentionally elusive. The characters don’t quite always give us their truths, we’re missing basic details and context (on purpose, at least at first)- in part to keep us as confused as Drew is just about what the brothers want, how they operate, and what they are up to. That works and really sets a vibe…up until the end, when I feel like the wool-pulling warranted a bit more clarity in terms of answers.
The characters are certainly interesting, if not fully fleshed out in places. Ultimately this was really barrelling towards a great 5 star read for me but I felt like we didn’t get get as much substance as the story evolved as I wanted, more authentic chemistry outside of what we’re told to believe. (the falling felt way too fast, undeveloped...instalovey almost). It felt like there were chances to really up more emotional layers in the romantic chemistry outside of feeling "called to" and safe with them. And there are so many twists and reveals at the end that I felt like the strings weren’t quite wrapped up as satisfying as I wanted. Maybe that’s okay- it’s a messy story, with a messy ending….but I feel like there are things that weren’t fully explained. The romantic ending was satisfying, and another delectable twist.
This is definitely heavy on the love triangle- it’s a core part of the dynamic- and the brothers go into with throuple intentions that get derailed. SO, if that’s not your thing take note. Again, I usually detest love triangles - it’s not the kind of romantic angst I prefer- but here it worked for because the relationships served two very different purposes. Despite me having a clear favorite from the start, both men are an array of juxtapositions and mystery. Jesse is broken and edgy, full of intensity and volatility and passion. Riley is shockingly like a soft mafioso- more swoony and gentle, level and steady. They foil each other nicely and both speak to parts of Drew. Drew seems at odds with herself and her needs for a lot of the story, and she’s so love starved that even when a clear choice is inevitable early on (at least to me it was clear whose love was right for her), she waffles…not only bc of her own decisions but because of what they ask of her. But again, the triangle worked for me because it’s resolved in a way that feels like there is truly only one “match for her”- her love grows much stronger for one man than the other. (and spoiler- she DOES only end up with one, by choice)
And outside of the love story we have LOT of mafia action and danger. Some heavy mind games and like I said, lots of twists. While I wish the back half had a bit more development in a few places, I did still really enjoy this story- the concept is great, the relationship dynamics unique and yummy, and the edge just sharp enough to pierce but not so dark that it’s unromantic. All in all, a solid read and definitely has me wanting to check out this author more.
🖤Mafia
🖤Love Triangle (with sharing, but ends MF)
🖤Cinderella Story/Rags to Riches (maid/prostitute x rich mafia bosses)
🖤Suspense/Mystery/Thriller
🖤Traumatic Pasts
🖤Auction/Trafficking
🖤Lots of Twists
🖤Boxing
🖤J/P Heroes
🖤Anti-Heroes
January 28, 2025
Buckle up - you are in for a wild ride! This book is one part dark romance and one part thriller with some great twists and turns. You also get this almost…dystopian vibe to the setting. This story was really unique and unlike any other mafia book I have ever read.
This is one of those stories where you really need to go into it blind - I can’t tell you anything specific about the plot. I can tell you I was on the edge of my seat and trying to guess what was going to happen next.
At first I was..almost a little confused and then BAM the story takes a turn!!
Both Riley and Jesse Astor are ruthless but also seem to care for Drew. She had been through so much and we see how she slowly learns more about their world…be warned, she only ends up with one brother! It’s definitely emotional and I was in my feels!
✨Synopsis✨
One brother saved me but under false pretenses. One brother is madly in love with me, but it’s complicated. I’ve fallen for both men for different reasons, but there’s only one way this can end—in messy, tragic destruction.
What to Expect:
🖤 Dark Romance
❤️🔥 Thriller Romance
🔫 Mafia Romance
💰 Rags to Riches
🔥 Possessive Hero
💼 MFM-Auction
🥊 Fight Club
👀 Billionaire Playboy Antihero
🌪️ Twists & Turns
🫦 HEA with ONE Hero
This is one of those stories where you really need to go into it blind - I can’t tell you anything specific about the plot. I can tell you I was on the edge of my seat and trying to guess what was going to happen next.
At first I was..almost a little confused and then BAM the story takes a turn!!
Both Riley and Jesse Astor are ruthless but also seem to care for Drew. She had been through so much and we see how she slowly learns more about their world…be warned, she only ends up with one brother! It’s definitely emotional and I was in my feels!
✨Synopsis✨
One brother saved me but under false pretenses. One brother is madly in love with me, but it’s complicated. I’ve fallen for both men for different reasons, but there’s only one way this can end—in messy, tragic destruction.
What to Expect:
🖤 Dark Romance
❤️🔥 Thriller Romance
🔫 Mafia Romance
💰 Rags to Riches
🔥 Possessive Hero
💼 MFM-Auction
🥊 Fight Club
👀 Billionaire Playboy Antihero
🌪️ Twists & Turns
🫦 HEA with ONE Hero
January 6, 2023
Misfire was quite the story with an original twist to the mafia world so I easily devoured it in one sitting. Destiny is a hooker & housekeeper trying to stay ahead of her past, and due to a mistake, she ends up changing her course with two super hot brothers. I don't want to say anything else because seriously, this story was a wild ride that everyone should just go in blindly for maximum goodness. The two brothers are total opposites as one is a bad boy while the other isn't but both end up wanting her so the sexy times do get seriously HOT! There are twists coming in hot, tons of angst that you'll feel deep, and heart racing goodness rounds it out perfectly, so HOLY HELL! Just hit those one click buttons & settle in for one hell of a ride that I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
January 8, 2023
Such an unusual read! At first it took me a while to catch on, two men wanting one woman. Scorching moments, kidnapping, saved by one and a fight to the death! I think the unknown was the culprit to turning the pages rapidly! Curiosity of what was to come, wondering what’s next! So many twists and turns! Eventually the right man was chosen. Enjoyable!
December 27, 2022
Trigger Warning:
Violence
Sex
MFM scene
Destiny was a hooker and housekeeper running away from her past to start over. A mixup has her in the apartment of the painter she watches from her dirty window at the run down hotel that she resides. Jesse thinks she is his new housekeeper and she doesn't correct him because she needs the money. After he confronts her about the lie he offers her a opportunity she can't refuse. While at the event that Jesse had her working she meets his brother Astor and from that moment their worlds collide. The past Jesse and Destiny are running from are intertwined and the future Astor can give is dangerously perfect. I have never been so emotionally distraught and angry while yelling at a book so much in my life. I wanted to fight all the characters and just jump in the story and smack sense into them. What in the world of emotional rollercoaster is this book ...jumping batman I was ready to throw the kindle and walk away. I just felt bamboozled and yes this is a HEA it's all the stuff inbetween and after that just got me so riled up. Sigh the book is so damn good and just heartbreaking and smutty and just damn! I need a Astor in my life at the same time I need a Jesse as well. This book will have you so emotional and horny at the same time. A great read!
Violence
Sex
MFM scene
Destiny was a hooker and housekeeper running away from her past to start over. A mixup has her in the apartment of the painter she watches from her dirty window at the run down hotel that she resides. Jesse thinks she is his new housekeeper and she doesn't correct him because she needs the money. After he confronts her about the lie he offers her a opportunity she can't refuse. While at the event that Jesse had her working she meets his brother Astor and from that moment their worlds collide. The past Jesse and Destiny are running from are intertwined and the future Astor can give is dangerously perfect. I have never been so emotionally distraught and angry while yelling at a book so much in my life. I wanted to fight all the characters and just jump in the story and smack sense into them. What in the world of emotional rollercoaster is this book ...jumping batman I was ready to throw the kindle and walk away. I just felt bamboozled and yes this is a HEA it's all the stuff inbetween and after that just got me so riled up. Sigh the book is so damn good and just heartbreaking and smutty and just damn! I need a Astor in my life at the same time I need a Jesse as well. This book will have you so emotional and horny at the same time. A great read!
January 8, 2023
Good god is all I can say! Holy cow that was a wild ride ! The story was amazing so entertaining , the past and history of destiny “drew” was so interesting to start . Riley and Jesse ummmm can you say wet dream$ much, their personalities , bad boy/ angel boy made this story soooooooooooo hot ..
Never in a million years did I think the book would end the way it did … I’m still in shock , but I won’t give it away..
This is a must read that’s for sure!! Wow oh wow . You must read this book.
Never in a million years did I think the book would end the way it did … I’m still in shock , but I won’t give it away..
This is a must read that’s for sure!! Wow oh wow . You must read this book.
January 7, 2023
The beginning of this book as wildly confusing. We meet Jesse & Riley, brothers who are a complete opposites from each other. Jesse is a bad boy with a dark past. Riley is sweet and loving, with a golden retriever personality. However, after this introduction, we are slung forward in time with no context or warning. Uhm, ok?
Drew is in a rough spot. She's a housekeeper by day and a call girl by night. Somehow she ends up in Jesse's apartment by mistake and he thinks she's his new housekeeper. Taking opportunity where she can, she just goes with it.
While I'm not usually a mafia romance reader, I am really happy that I gave this book a chance. The plot is intense and rich. The characters have depth and are independent, yet they are cohesive as they need to be. I appreciate a good romantic suspense and this one is rife with suspense. It keeps you trying to think ahead.
Always check the TW/CW:
💥MFM 💥Violence
Anywho! Time to wrap this up with the goodies:
Read: 4🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 3🌶🌶🌶
HEA
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Drew is in a rough spot. She's a housekeeper by day and a call girl by night. Somehow she ends up in Jesse's apartment by mistake and he thinks she's his new housekeeper. Taking opportunity where she can, she just goes with it.
While I'm not usually a mafia romance reader, I am really happy that I gave this book a chance. The plot is intense and rich. The characters have depth and are independent, yet they are cohesive as they need to be. I appreciate a good romantic suspense and this one is rife with suspense. It keeps you trying to think ahead.
Always check the TW/CW:
💥MFM 💥Violence
Anywho! Time to wrap this up with the goodies:
Read: 4🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 3🌶🌶🌶
HEA
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 31, 2025
When I read a Rachel Robinson novel I just have to buckle up and hold on because I’m in for an emotional ride.
Destiny is eeking out a meager survival when a chance encounter brings her into the world of Jesse Astor and his brother Riley. The Astors run the city and they both want her.
I felt caught up in the whirlwind romance between Destiny, Jesse, and Riley and had trouble sleeping as the story approached the ending. I was left hurting so good at the ending which is, happy yet bittersweet.
I do always enjoy the masterful way Rachel writes dangerous men that love so strongly.
I was given a free copy. Thank you to Hambright PR for this ARC. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Destiny is eeking out a meager survival when a chance encounter brings her into the world of Jesse Astor and his brother Riley. The Astors run the city and they both want her.
I felt caught up in the whirlwind romance between Destiny, Jesse, and Riley and had trouble sleeping as the story approached the ending. I was left hurting so good at the ending which is, happy yet bittersweet.
I do always enjoy the masterful way Rachel writes dangerous men that love so strongly.
I was given a free copy. Thank you to Hambright PR for this ARC. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
February 1, 2025
So let's get to discussing this book! This book is for sure a wild ride! I was like what the heck is going on? What is going to happen next? Did that really just happen?! This book kept me on edge the entire time and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Destiny is a housekeeper and on the side has a few hookups to keep up with her bills. She just sets out with her mop to get a new head when someone mistakes her for their new maid. She takes them up on this opportunity because she needs the money. What happens next is a wild ride with not one but TWO brothers!
Destiny is a housekeeper and on the side has a few hookups to keep up with her bills. She just sets out with her mop to get a new head when someone mistakes her for their new maid. She takes them up on this opportunity because she needs the money. What happens next is a wild ride with not one but TWO brothers!
December 31, 2022
“Are we together then?”
He glances at me. “How would you answer that?”
“What are the rules? I don’t know who I’m supposed to be! Your girlfriend? Your house cleaner and part time waitress? You buy me clothes and vow to protect me, and I still don’t know why.” I push the plate away, appetite all but forgotten. “Riley shares things with me. He’s not setting me up for failure. He reserves a place for me and reminds me it’s there if I want to take it.”
Jesse raises one brow. “It’s like that is it? Here’s the first rule. Riley is who he is and I’m who I am. Do not compare us.” Brush and easel in hand he walks up to where I’m standing, to loom over me. His darkness sweeping me like a chilling hug. “Got it?” Threat looms large in the last two words. “You were a house cleaner and a waitress because I wasn’t sure what you were capable of or wanted to do. You are my girlfriend, and tonight you’re only mine.”
Jesse tilts his head to one side. “Don’t speak his name. I’m sure he’s already left his mark on your body, I don’t want his name on your lips, too.”
Copyright 2022 Rachel Robinson
Releasing January 6 2023. PREORDER NOW!
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BQSJH6HN
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BQSJH6HN
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0BQSJH6HN
He glances at me. “How would you answer that?”
“What are the rules? I don’t know who I’m supposed to be! Your girlfriend? Your house cleaner and part time waitress? You buy me clothes and vow to protect me, and I still don’t know why.” I push the plate away, appetite all but forgotten. “Riley shares things with me. He’s not setting me up for failure. He reserves a place for me and reminds me it’s there if I want to take it.”
Jesse raises one brow. “It’s like that is it? Here’s the first rule. Riley is who he is and I’m who I am. Do not compare us.” Brush and easel in hand he walks up to where I’m standing, to loom over me. His darkness sweeping me like a chilling hug. “Got it?” Threat looms large in the last two words. “You were a house cleaner and a waitress because I wasn’t sure what you were capable of or wanted to do. You are my girlfriend, and tonight you’re only mine.”
Jesse tilts his head to one side. “Don’t speak his name. I’m sure he’s already left his mark on your body, I don’t want his name on your lips, too.”
Copyright 2022 Rachel Robinson
Releasing January 6 2023. PREORDER NOW!
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BQSJH6HN
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BQSJH6HN
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0BQSJH6HN
February 16, 2023
Rachel is my GO TO for NAVY SEAL romances, but Misfire was sooo different and a good different. This was dark, wild, full of suspense and steam. In signature Rachel style though, Misfire had a beautifully woven story line that kept me hooked until the very last page! Congrats on another great read Rach!
January 30, 2025
I can see why so many people love this book, but it’s just not for me. I could not connect with any of the characters and it just seemed to jump in and around so quickly. I could not understand why they were so obsessed with Drew immediately and let her into all their secrets and safe spaces without even basically taking to her. They give her a company and a building and all this unfettered access, but don’t know anything about her at all. I did love the care they put into teaching her to read, but then they give her all this power, but actually tell her nothing at all… like she got bits and pieces of info from some of her new coworkers. They explain nothing and she is constantly confused. And the way the brothers use her as a tool to get back at each and she gets yelled at and blamed for things she doesn’t even know what’s going on .
This one just was too jumpy and overly “mysterious” for me, especially because I just didn’t connect with the characters so I was missing that emotional connection to keep my interested.
This one just was too jumpy and overly “mysterious” for me, especially because I just didn’t connect with the characters so I was missing that emotional connection to keep my interested.
January 21, 2025
4 STARS
I've been eyeing this author for some time and when I saw the blurb to this book, I just knew it would be my first from her. And after finishing, I can definitely tell you that it will not be my last.
As a long time romance reader, it's hard to find something that is truly unique. Not just different but unique, and boy was this story unique. It was unlike anything I've ever read and it had me on pins an needles from beginning to finish constantly trying to figure out where it's going and always being wrong. It was unlike any other mafia romance I've read.
Now you may be thinking this is an MFM, which I will tell you that it isn't. But it also isn't a love triangle either. What it is, is a very complex and unique relationship that one woman has with two men.
Drew "Destiny" is a woman who has never had it easy in life. With nothing else available to her, she is forced to sell her body to survive as she watches the talented painter next door to escape reality. Then one chance encounter gives her an opportunity she could never so much as dream of but lands her in the middle of the dangerous world of the Astor brothers.
Jesse and Riley are not brothers by blood, but they are brothers by choice. They are two sides of a coin; one dark and dangerous, and the other sunny but with a hidden danger. Neither is safe to Drew's heart.
I won't tell you much more about this because you really need to experience this book blind. Trust me on this and don't seek out spoilers. I will say that I spent the majority of the book waiting for the other shoe to drop but nothing could prepare me for the moment that it did. The twists and turns had me reeling, never knowing which end was up. The ending was satisfying in a way I couldn't imagine and I keep finding myself thinking of the story days after finishing.
If you're looking for something that's a bit different with plenty of danger and steam, definitely give this one a try!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
I feel like all I’ve seen you do is kill people.” He laughs. “Sometimes I paint in between.”
I've been eyeing this author for some time and when I saw the blurb to this book, I just knew it would be my first from her. And after finishing, I can definitely tell you that it will not be my last.
As a long time romance reader, it's hard to find something that is truly unique. Not just different but unique, and boy was this story unique. It was unlike anything I've ever read and it had me on pins an needles from beginning to finish constantly trying to figure out where it's going and always being wrong. It was unlike any other mafia romance I've read.
Now you may be thinking this is an MFM, which I will tell you that it isn't. But it also isn't a love triangle either. What it is, is a very complex and unique relationship that one woman has with two men.
Drew "Destiny" is a woman who has never had it easy in life. With nothing else available to her, she is forced to sell her body to survive as she watches the talented painter next door to escape reality. Then one chance encounter gives her an opportunity she could never so much as dream of but lands her in the middle of the dangerous world of the Astor brothers.
Jesse and Riley are not brothers by blood, but they are brothers by choice. They are two sides of a coin; one dark and dangerous, and the other sunny but with a hidden danger. Neither is safe to Drew's heart.
I won't tell you much more about this because you really need to experience this book blind. Trust me on this and don't seek out spoilers. I will say that I spent the majority of the book waiting for the other shoe to drop but nothing could prepare me for the moment that it did. The twists and turns had me reeling, never knowing which end was up. The ending was satisfying in a way I couldn't imagine and I keep finding myself thinking of the story days after finishing.
If you're looking for something that's a bit different with plenty of danger and steam, definitely give this one a try!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
February 25, 2025
For readers 18+
Genre 🦋
Dark Romance
Mafia Romance
MMF Romance
Millionaires & Billionaires
Tropes & Themes 🦋
Dark Romance
🔫 Mafia Romance
💰 Rags to Riches
🔥 Possessive Hero
💼 MFM-Auction
🥊 Fight Club
👀 Billionaire Playboy
Antihero
HEA with ONE Hero
⛛ Love Triangle
“Maybe I’m not from here and I recognize a piece of who I used to be in you.”
Misfire, a novel by Rachel Robinson, is a gritty, dark romance with Pretty Woman (Julia Roberts) crossed with Roxanne (The Police) vibes… IF Richard Gere was a billionaire Mafia boss and his brother Sting (who *WILL* share her with another boy 🎶) were both pursuing Julia Roberts, but for vastly different reasons. The ulterior motive, later revealed, was a surprise twist that spun me around like a record. An absolutely jaw-dropping conclusion follows and while I know this is a standalone, it definitely has series potential, especially after that shocker ending.
There was a lot of symbolism woven carefully between the lines, leading to a larger picture: the GLOW UP of “Destiny.” Blue butterflies represent rebirth and the day Destiny met Jesse, and subsequently Riley, the metamorphosis began; from hooker/house-cleaner to the filthy-rich consort of a Mafia boss, with an iced-out, mega-watt sparkling diamond bracelet gracing her wrist, replacing the old dishwashing rubber gloves she donned prior. The burn everything down to the ground attitude that the throuple shared was also symbolic; every time a place, building, or entire complex was torched, it was symbolically erased, destroying any and all old ties and attachments to their dark pasts. Fire is also symbolically purifying and like a Phoenix, Jesse and “Destiny”/Drew rose from the ashes for their second chance at life. This underlying theme was the gleam or shine under the grime, and these dark and damaged characters deserve the world. I couldn’t help but emphasize with their inner psychological turmoil, shattered hopes, and betrayals by family. While Destiny, Riley, and Jesse are morally-gray, the supporting characters are morally-black and Rachel Robinson makes this distinction as clear as crystal champagne flutes.
I loved the way Riley treated Destiny and how he handled learning she was illiterate. His “encouragement” and, uh, reward system were amusing. More importantly he picked up on her limitations due to Dyslexia and taught her how to read and write. Her eagerness to learn and his patience were two attributes that endeared me to them further. And his pet name for her, “Lamb” was the cutest. So crazy in love; Riley didn’t care who heard him — this big, ruthless mob boss all heart-eyed for her and only her, ever again. I also found the name may have represented something deeper, like the so-called sacrificial lamb, or again symbolism related to innocence and purity. In Riley’s eyes, no deed Destiny did was dirty.
There were several quotes about Riley equating to sunshine in Destiny’s mind and after a lifetime of cold shoulders and darkness, this means a lot. Back to the symbolism, sunlight is warming; it rises daily offering the hope and promise of a new day. This wasn’t at all lost on me.
There’s a lot of suspense and like Destiny, I was holding my breath, internally scream-asking “WHY” during Fight Club.
Misfire, by Rachel Robinson is spicy, violent, dark, disturbed and a gift to both the genre and lovers of dark romance. I would recommend Misfire to fans of heavily-spiced, dark, gritty, romantic reads with a beautiful, well-deserved happily-ever-after.
Genre 🦋
Dark Romance
Mafia Romance
MMF Romance
Millionaires & Billionaires
Tropes & Themes 🦋
Dark Romance
🔫 Mafia Romance
💰 Rags to Riches
🔥 Possessive Hero
💼 MFM-Auction
🥊 Fight Club
👀 Billionaire Playboy
Antihero
HEA with ONE Hero
⛛ Love Triangle
“Maybe I’m not from here and I recognize a piece of who I used to be in you.”
Misfire, a novel by Rachel Robinson, is a gritty, dark romance with Pretty Woman (Julia Roberts) crossed with Roxanne (The Police) vibes… IF Richard Gere was a billionaire Mafia boss and his brother Sting (who *WILL* share her with another boy 🎶) were both pursuing Julia Roberts, but for vastly different reasons. The ulterior motive, later revealed, was a surprise twist that spun me around like a record. An absolutely jaw-dropping conclusion follows and while I know this is a standalone, it definitely has series potential, especially after that shocker ending.
There was a lot of symbolism woven carefully between the lines, leading to a larger picture: the GLOW UP of “Destiny.” Blue butterflies represent rebirth and the day Destiny met Jesse, and subsequently Riley, the metamorphosis began; from hooker/house-cleaner to the filthy-rich consort of a Mafia boss, with an iced-out, mega-watt sparkling diamond bracelet gracing her wrist, replacing the old dishwashing rubber gloves she donned prior. The burn everything down to the ground attitude that the throuple shared was also symbolic; every time a place, building, or entire complex was torched, it was symbolically erased, destroying any and all old ties and attachments to their dark pasts. Fire is also symbolically purifying and like a Phoenix, Jesse and “Destiny”/Drew rose from the ashes for their second chance at life. This underlying theme was the gleam or shine under the grime, and these dark and damaged characters deserve the world. I couldn’t help but emphasize with their inner psychological turmoil, shattered hopes, and betrayals by family. While Destiny, Riley, and Jesse are morally-gray, the supporting characters are morally-black and Rachel Robinson makes this distinction as clear as crystal champagne flutes.
I loved the way Riley treated Destiny and how he handled learning she was illiterate. His “encouragement” and, uh, reward system were amusing. More importantly he picked up on her limitations due to Dyslexia and taught her how to read and write. Her eagerness to learn and his patience were two attributes that endeared me to them further. And his pet name for her, “Lamb” was the cutest. So crazy in love; Riley didn’t care who heard him — this big, ruthless mob boss all heart-eyed for her and only her, ever again. I also found the name may have represented something deeper, like the so-called sacrificial lamb, or again symbolism related to innocence and purity. In Riley’s eyes, no deed Destiny did was dirty.
There were several quotes about Riley equating to sunshine in Destiny’s mind and after a lifetime of cold shoulders and darkness, this means a lot. Back to the symbolism, sunlight is warming; it rises daily offering the hope and promise of a new day. This wasn’t at all lost on me.
There’s a lot of suspense and like Destiny, I was holding my breath, internally scream-asking “WHY” during Fight Club.
Misfire, by Rachel Robinson is spicy, violent, dark, disturbed and a gift to both the genre and lovers of dark romance. I would recommend Misfire to fans of heavily-spiced, dark, gritty, romantic reads with a beautiful, well-deserved happily-ever-after.
January 8, 2023
Whew! That was one heckuva steamy journey, one that put the characters and readers through the wringer, satisfying one moment before causing frustrations the next. From the first page to the last this tale kept you on edge, torn between two very different brothers who had big effects on Destiny's future. This was an atmospheric tale with larger than life characters that left me feeling complete but wanting a bit more.
Destiny's a young woman with a compelling past and a name that's appropriate given how life has treated her thus far. They say that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger...and throughout this story Destiny proves that by the number of times she's gotten up after being knocked down. When readers first see her she's working as a housekeeper and hooker, living a life where her past and future are blending together. When a case of mistaken identity leads Destiny to the two Astor brothers, life changes irrevocably in connections that have profound effects on her.
Riley and Jesse Astor are two very different men who affect Destiny very differently, with one of them her savior and the other pushing her to the top. They're both delicious and drool-worthy heroes though, heroes not clearly defined but heroes who leave a strong mark on the heroine. Riley's more of the good guy while Jesse's more dark and dangerous, bringing their interesting dichotomy to sizzling scenes with Destiny. They're two tempting sides to the same coin, two men who captivated me, grabbing my attention and not letting go!
On a whole this was an intriguing story with unforgettable characters! The storyline is steamy while pushing many of my emotional buttons. Set in the world of the mafia Ms. Robinson has put a unique spin on the popular genre and is a book I definitely recommend!
Destiny's a young woman with a compelling past and a name that's appropriate given how life has treated her thus far. They say that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger...and throughout this story Destiny proves that by the number of times she's gotten up after being knocked down. When readers first see her she's working as a housekeeper and hooker, living a life where her past and future are blending together. When a case of mistaken identity leads Destiny to the two Astor brothers, life changes irrevocably in connections that have profound effects on her.
Riley and Jesse Astor are two very different men who affect Destiny very differently, with one of them her savior and the other pushing her to the top. They're both delicious and drool-worthy heroes though, heroes not clearly defined but heroes who leave a strong mark on the heroine. Riley's more of the good guy while Jesse's more dark and dangerous, bringing their interesting dichotomy to sizzling scenes with Destiny. They're two tempting sides to the same coin, two men who captivated me, grabbing my attention and not letting go!
On a whole this was an intriguing story with unforgettable characters! The storyline is steamy while pushing many of my emotional buttons. Set in the world of the mafia Ms. Robinson has put a unique spin on the popular genre and is a book I definitely recommend!
January 16, 2025
✨🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆 ✨
🖤 𝕄𝕀𝕊𝔽𝕀ℝ𝔼 🖤
𝔹𝕐 ℝ𝔸ℂℍ𝔼𝕃 ℝ𝕆𝔹𝕀ℕ𝕊𝕆ℕ
Wow! Misfire, had me in all my feels! I easily devoured this book! I was hooked from start to finish! Rachel Robinson truly wrote an excellent mafia story. Honestly, she wrote one heck of a roller coaster story! I am speechless! This book is filled with emotion, love, twists & turns, suspense, angst, spice/ hot, dark, wild & action packed! Everything about this story was beautifully written, so entertaining & every character in this story was so thought out! Mind blowing! I was so invested in this story, amazing!
Riley & Jesse, I couldn’t pick! I truly loved them both. So hot! Riley is more a good guy in a boyfriend sense. Jesse is a bad boy, full of tattoos, dark, wild, bad upbringing and dangerous. Drew with a bad upbringing, but still filled with love & care. After all she’s been thru and endured it didn’t ruin the beautiful person she is. But at the end of the day Drew and Jesse fall in the same category. Where Drew has never been loved the right way, till Riley comes along. I know it’s crazy but I was rooting for both men! Haha! But I will say, last few chapters had me on an emotional roller coaster.
Unforgettable story! Wow! This story will keep you hooked from the first page & it’s a MUST READ! Don’t walk, run!! ⚠️ Read TRIGGER WARNINGS.
"I never wanted to rule an empire. I was a housekeeper. A hooker. A wrecked woman with a past full of scars and secrets.”
"I've fallen for both men for different reasons, but there's only one way this can end—in messy, tragic destruction.”
"Everyone tells you playing with fire is dangerous, but they never said it would be this intoxicating.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🖤 𝕄𝕀𝕊𝔽𝕀ℝ𝔼 🖤
𝔹𝕐 ℝ𝔸ℂℍ𝔼𝕃 ℝ𝕆𝔹𝕀ℕ𝕊𝕆ℕ
Wow! Misfire, had me in all my feels! I easily devoured this book! I was hooked from start to finish! Rachel Robinson truly wrote an excellent mafia story. Honestly, she wrote one heck of a roller coaster story! I am speechless! This book is filled with emotion, love, twists & turns, suspense, angst, spice/ hot, dark, wild & action packed! Everything about this story was beautifully written, so entertaining & every character in this story was so thought out! Mind blowing! I was so invested in this story, amazing!
Riley & Jesse, I couldn’t pick! I truly loved them both. So hot! Riley is more a good guy in a boyfriend sense. Jesse is a bad boy, full of tattoos, dark, wild, bad upbringing and dangerous. Drew with a bad upbringing, but still filled with love & care. After all she’s been thru and endured it didn’t ruin the beautiful person she is. But at the end of the day Drew and Jesse fall in the same category. Where Drew has never been loved the right way, till Riley comes along. I know it’s crazy but I was rooting for both men! Haha! But I will say, last few chapters had me on an emotional roller coaster.
Unforgettable story! Wow! This story will keep you hooked from the first page & it’s a MUST READ! Don’t walk, run!! ⚠️ Read TRIGGER WARNINGS.
"I never wanted to rule an empire. I was a housekeeper. A hooker. A wrecked woman with a past full of scars and secrets.”
"I've fallen for both men for different reasons, but there's only one way this can end—in messy, tragic destruction.”
"Everyone tells you playing with fire is dangerous, but they never said it would be this intoxicating.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 6, 2023
I received the ARC for this book. The cover immediately grabbed my interest and I was super excited to start reading. I’m not going to lie, the start of this book confused me so much. We’re introduced to the two male characters out of the three main characters, and then there’s a sudden time jump with no warning at all. The point of view from chapter one is not brought back until towards the end of the book at around 70%. Every chapter after the first one, is told by the female main character. Once again, the first couple of chapters confused me as well. However, it totally intrigued me as well. It pushed me to keep reading to see what was going on in the story and where it was leading. One you push through, it gets sooooo good.
“No one,” he replies. “A reminder of my intentions.”
A confusing statement, but still something, “are we together then?”
He glances at me. “How would you answer that?”
“What are the rules? I don’t know who I’m suppose to be! Your girlfriend? Your house cleaner and part time waitress?’
The story revolves around a the female lead (Drew) and the two male leads (Jesse & Riley). She runs into an opportunity to clean an apartment and that opens up her world to so much more. Drew is being shared by the Jesse and Riley and she is incredibly confused by this relationship. Jesse has a really dark pass that reminds Drew of her own dark past. He’s hard around the edges and his a dirty mouth. Riley is sweet and caring. He takes his time giving her what she wants. But there’s always a doubt in her mind about what is happening. And their world is something she is not use to. There are so many twists and turns, and it honestly keeps you asking yourself what the hell is going on! Between being part of the Astors, The Ring, the Grout, Dirt Downs… the book keeps you wondering “what’s next?”
“No one,” he replies. “A reminder of my intentions.”
A confusing statement, but still something, “are we together then?”
He glances at me. “How would you answer that?”
“What are the rules? I don’t know who I’m suppose to be! Your girlfriend? Your house cleaner and part time waitress?’
The story revolves around a the female lead (Drew) and the two male leads (Jesse & Riley). She runs into an opportunity to clean an apartment and that opens up her world to so much more. Drew is being shared by the Jesse and Riley and she is incredibly confused by this relationship. Jesse has a really dark pass that reminds Drew of her own dark past. He’s hard around the edges and his a dirty mouth. Riley is sweet and caring. He takes his time giving her what she wants. But there’s always a doubt in her mind about what is happening. And their world is something she is not use to. There are so many twists and turns, and it honestly keeps you asking yourself what the hell is going on! Between being part of the Astors, The Ring, the Grout, Dirt Downs… the book keeps you wondering “what’s next?”
January 31, 2025
Ah, another adventure into mafia romance. I have fun with this dark and gritty subgenre generally. However, this one just didn’t quite hit for me.
Drew is pulled into a large mafia operation and is given an opportunity - fully upend your life and gain access to education, wealth, and business success. All you have to do? Keep *both* Astor step brothers happy. And I do mean… *happy.* What could possibly go wrong??
Well, unsurprisingly, lots of things. Drew feels an intense desire for one of them, but somehow is conflicted and feels desire for the other too. Jesse’s obvious mental health issues are never really addressed, nor is the explanation for Drew’s situation nearly satisfying enough. When things escalate, somehow Drew is always in extraordinary danger (complete with a human auction…) and also totally and completely okay with her situation as long as her favored brother was nearby. I found myself baffled by her decisions and why the Astors were SO OBSESSED with her.
Now, on the positive side - there was outstanding spice in this book. Pacing was something of a frenzied experience, but it kept the pages turning. A group of women were introduced that were all about building up each other and female empowerment, which was a nice touch. And… that’s about it.
Ultimately, perhaps this just wasn’t for me. The concept was intriguing, but the execution just didn’t land.
Drew is pulled into a large mafia operation and is given an opportunity - fully upend your life and gain access to education, wealth, and business success. All you have to do? Keep *both* Astor step brothers happy. And I do mean… *happy.* What could possibly go wrong??
Well, unsurprisingly, lots of things. Drew feels an intense desire for one of them, but somehow is conflicted and feels desire for the other too. Jesse’s obvious mental health issues are never really addressed, nor is the explanation for Drew’s situation nearly satisfying enough. When things escalate, somehow Drew is always in extraordinary danger (complete with a human auction…) and also totally and completely okay with her situation as long as her favored brother was nearby. I found myself baffled by her decisions and why the Astors were SO OBSESSED with her.
Now, on the positive side - there was outstanding spice in this book. Pacing was something of a frenzied experience, but it kept the pages turning. A group of women were introduced that were all about building up each other and female empowerment, which was a nice touch. And… that’s about it.
Ultimately, perhaps this just wasn’t for me. The concept was intriguing, but the execution just didn’t land.
Read
January 7, 2023"What do you want?"
From the first page, this one had me curious and kept me flipping pages.
It can get a bit chaotic at times but the misdirection will make sense as the story progresses. It also plays a little outside of reality with some scenes and responses but they fit in this tale of twisted love and deception.
Nothing is as black and white as it seems and no one is to be trusted.
A warning as it also contains some events that may not be for everyone
But if you are willing to take the risk like Destiny...
"I was told once that for a star to be born, destruction must take place. You cannot dwell on the destruction, you cannot grieve what you're losing."
Destiny - AKA Drew - has always stood alone. She has been beaten down, used, and abused, and yet somehow she still houses a gentle soul with an innocence that calls and captivates Jesse and Riley.
Despite her confusion at what exactly Jesse is offering her, she knows it is still a better situation than where she is now.
Or not.
"Maybe my brand of poison is better than the one you're drinking now."
Jesse is an enigma. I wanted to dislike him so much while at the same time wrapping him in a hug and telling him he is loved.
"Men don't fall for harlots. They catch and release after rehabilitating them."
Riley... First impressions are not always correct
This was an absolute tangled web of misdirection and destruction
Chaos - Safety
Love - Jealousy
Forgiveness - Vengeance
So much happens within these pages - Too much to tell without spoiling the moments
From the first page, this one had me curious and kept me flipping pages.
It can get a bit chaotic at times but the misdirection will make sense as the story progresses. It also plays a little outside of reality with some scenes and responses but they fit in this tale of twisted love and deception.
Nothing is as black and white as it seems and no one is to be trusted.
A warning as it also contains some events that may not be for everyone
But if you are willing to take the risk like Destiny...
"I was told once that for a star to be born, destruction must take place. You cannot dwell on the destruction, you cannot grieve what you're losing."
Destiny - AKA Drew - has always stood alone. She has been beaten down, used, and abused, and yet somehow she still houses a gentle soul with an innocence that calls and captivates Jesse and Riley.
Despite her confusion at what exactly Jesse is offering her, she knows it is still a better situation than where she is now.
Or not.
"Maybe my brand of poison is better than the one you're drinking now."
Jesse is an enigma. I wanted to dislike him so much while at the same time wrapping him in a hug and telling him he is loved.
"Men don't fall for harlots. They catch and release after rehabilitating them."
Riley... First impressions are not always correct
This was an absolute tangled web of misdirection and destruction
Chaos - Safety
Love - Jealousy
Forgiveness - Vengeance
So much happens within these pages - Too much to tell without spoiling the moments
January 16, 2025
Misfire by Rachel Robinson is a dark and intoxicating mafia romance that grabs you from the very first page and doesn’t let go. Drew a woman with a haunting past, is thrust into the dangerous, glamorous world of organized crime after a chance encounter with the Astor brothers Jesse & Riley. One brother saves her, but his intentions are far from pure, while the other is deeply in love with her—though their relationship is anything but simple. With its intense, emotional complexity and high stakes, Misfire delivers a rollercoaster ride of passion, betrayal, and heartbreak. The compelling mix of a rags-to-riches storyline, combined with the tension of the mafia world, makes this novel a thrilling page-turner.
The book expertly blends dark romance, possessive heroes, and a dangerous underworld with an unforgettable MFM love triangle that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With themes of a billionaire playboy antihero, a fight club, and an auction, Misfire explores the dangerous allure of power, control, and passion in the mafia world. Although it may seem like there are no clear answers, Robinson delivers a satisfying HEA with one hero that will leave readers feeling both fulfilled and deeply moved. The chemistry between the characters, the high stakes, and the emotional depth make Misfire a must-read for anyone who loves dark, edgy romance.
January 17, 2025
As I’m slowly getting into enjoying mafia romances, the plot of this book sucked me right in. I thought that the FMC was someone who was just trying to get by. You couldn’t help but love her character. Her backstory was heartbreaking. She questions the intentions of everyone. It cut pretty deep.
Th way I couldn’t decide which brother she should be with 😅😅 they both had such different qualities and carried themselves very differently. This book is definitely not going to be for everyone. A lot of people don’t enjoy the “why choose” aspect of books like this, but eventually, she chose. She had to.
The last 20% of this book gave me such ANXIETY. I was at the edge of my seat, I shed some tears, I was angry, but it all made sense in the end. The way the author did it was poetic. It also left us with an opening for another book, which I’m totally here for!
I LOVED the character development of the FMC. She started off very timid, but boy did she grow into herself throughout the story! She was kind of a bada** towards the end. I loved that the men gave her the strength and determination to know her worth. Loved watching it bloom!
If you’re a fan of mafia romances, spicy scenes, some violence, and a bit of human trafficking (doesn’t go into great detail) with an HEA, you should add this to your TBR!
Th way I couldn’t decide which brother she should be with 😅😅 they both had such different qualities and carried themselves very differently. This book is definitely not going to be for everyone. A lot of people don’t enjoy the “why choose” aspect of books like this, but eventually, she chose. She had to.
The last 20% of this book gave me such ANXIETY. I was at the edge of my seat, I shed some tears, I was angry, but it all made sense in the end. The way the author did it was poetic. It also left us with an opening for another book, which I’m totally here for!
I LOVED the character development of the FMC. She started off very timid, but boy did she grow into herself throughout the story! She was kind of a bada** towards the end. I loved that the men gave her the strength and determination to know her worth. Loved watching it bloom!
If you’re a fan of mafia romances, spicy scenes, some violence, and a bit of human trafficking (doesn’t go into great detail) with an HEA, you should add this to your TBR!
January 19, 2025
I never wanted to rule an empire. I was a housekeeper. A hooker. A wrecked woman with a past full of scars and secrets. A chance encounter with an Astor swept me into the hurricane of their glamorous, organized crime world. Then, I met the other Astor brother, and nothing will ever be normal again.
One brother saved me but under false pretenses.
One brother is madly in love with me, but it’s complicated.
I’ve fallen for both men for different reasons, but there’s only one way this can end—in messy, tragic destruction.
Everyone tells you playing with fire is dangerous, but they never said it would be this intoxicating.
🦋Dark Romance
🖤Mafia Romance
🦋Rags to Riches
🖤Possessive Hero
🦋MFM-Auction
🖤Fight Club
🦋Billionaire Playboy-Antihero
🖤HEA with ONE Hero
My take:
My 2nd book by Rachel Robinson and it was great! I love a mafia romance and this one delivered! Everything about this sounded good and problematic af so I was excited to get into this drama 😂 there’s some mystery in this one with a couple twists. Over all, I really enjoyed this one! Read this if you’re a mafia romance lover!
A big thank you to hambright_pr and @rachelrobinson for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!
One brother saved me but under false pretenses.
One brother is madly in love with me, but it’s complicated.
I’ve fallen for both men for different reasons, but there’s only one way this can end—in messy, tragic destruction.
Everyone tells you playing with fire is dangerous, but they never said it would be this intoxicating.
🦋Dark Romance
🖤Mafia Romance
🦋Rags to Riches
🖤Possessive Hero
🦋MFM-Auction
🖤Fight Club
🦋Billionaire Playboy-Antihero
🖤HEA with ONE Hero
My take:
My 2nd book by Rachel Robinson and it was great! I love a mafia romance and this one delivered! Everything about this sounded good and problematic af so I was excited to get into this drama 😂 there’s some mystery in this one with a couple twists. Over all, I really enjoyed this one! Read this if you’re a mafia romance lover!
A big thank you to hambright_pr and @rachelrobinson for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!
January 7, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
I never wanted to rule an empire. I was a housekeeper. A hooker. A wrecked woman with a past full of scars and secrets. A chance encounter with an Astor swept me into the hurricane of their glamorous, organized crime world. Then, I met the other Astor brother and nothing will ever be normal again. One brother saved me, but under false pretenses. One brother is madly in love with me, but it's complicated. I've fallen for both men for different reasons, but there's only one way this can end in messy, tragic destruction. Everyone tells you playing with fire is dangerous, but they never said it would be this intoxicating.
Buckle up because you are about to take a really wild ride. I had to take the time to process after reading this book and had a huge book hangover when I was finished. But we all know that that isn't a bad thing at all. Riley and Jesse are brothers. One is the bad boy and the other is the complete opposite and I loved them!! Holy hotness and kindle melting goodness. I don't even really think that I should tell you a thing about the story. I feel like you need to go in blind and not know a thing about this book except it is absolutely amazing and started my 2023 off with a bang.
I never wanted to rule an empire. I was a housekeeper. A hooker. A wrecked woman with a past full of scars and secrets. A chance encounter with an Astor swept me into the hurricane of their glamorous, organized crime world. Then, I met the other Astor brother and nothing will ever be normal again. One brother saved me, but under false pretenses. One brother is madly in love with me, but it's complicated. I've fallen for both men for different reasons, but there's only one way this can end in messy, tragic destruction. Everyone tells you playing with fire is dangerous, but they never said it would be this intoxicating.
Buckle up because you are about to take a really wild ride. I had to take the time to process after reading this book and had a huge book hangover when I was finished. But we all know that that isn't a bad thing at all. Riley and Jesse are brothers. One is the bad boy and the other is the complete opposite and I loved them!! Holy hotness and kindle melting goodness. I don't even really think that I should tell you a thing about the story. I feel like you need to go in blind and not know a thing about this book except it is absolutely amazing and started my 2023 off with a bang.
January 24, 2025
Misfire is a standalone mafia romance. This story is so different and definitely not your usual mafia romance. It almost had a dystopian style to it which was unique. This book will take you on one crazy rollercoaster. One of the aspects that I enjoyed in this book is the suspense that accompanied the story. I had no idea how it was going to end and when it did....I had my jaw hanging open and maybe she a few tears. I say go into this book blind......That's what I did and I truly enjoyed it. This book does have a love triangle and the FMC will only end up with one...Can you finger out when brother it will be????
Why you will love the book:
🖤 Dark Romance
🔫 Mafia Romance
💰 Rags to Riches
🔥 Possessive Hero
💼 MFM-Auction
🥊 Fight Club
👀 Billionaire Playboy-Antihero
🫦 HEA with ONE Hero
****There are some very dark aspects to this book. Please check content warnings before diving in.
Why you will love the book:
🖤 Dark Romance
🔫 Mafia Romance
💰 Rags to Riches
🔥 Possessive Hero
💼 MFM-Auction
🥊 Fight Club
👀 Billionaire Playboy-Antihero
🫦 HEA with ONE Hero
****There are some very dark aspects to this book. Please check content warnings before diving in.
January 31, 2025
In Misfire, Drew is a housekeeper and a prostitute working to escape her former life. She’s literally plucked off the street on the way to the store by Jesse to clean his apartment for an art opening. And from there, his obsession with her only grows. To complicate things, his brother Riley takes an interest in Drew, too.
Misfire is an absolutely wild ride of a dark romance! I think I thought “well, that escalated quickly” like every single chapter. 😂 It definitely kept me turning the pages! I enjoyed the thrilling elements (some are DARK so keep that in mind) and I’m always down for a MFM romance. I did have some trouble connecting with the characters and felt like their development left me wanting. They fell a little flat for me when I thought their backstories had such great potential. It was definitely a compelling story though, especially the last half!
Give Misfire a read if you enjoy :
▫️Dark romance
▫️Mafia romance
▫️MFM romance
▫️Thriller elements
Misfire is an absolutely wild ride of a dark romance! I think I thought “well, that escalated quickly” like every single chapter. 😂 It definitely kept me turning the pages! I enjoyed the thrilling elements (some are DARK so keep that in mind) and I’m always down for a MFM romance. I did have some trouble connecting with the characters and felt like their development left me wanting. They fell a little flat for me when I thought their backstories had such great potential. It was definitely a compelling story though, especially the last half!
Give Misfire a read if you enjoy :
▫️Dark romance
▫️Mafia romance
▫️MFM romance
▫️Thriller elements
February 25, 2025
Misfire by Rachel Robinson was like a punch to my heart! This dark romance has endless twists and facets those keep you glued to the page. It plays with explosive emotions and scorching hot passion in a world of danger and crime and power.
🖤 dark mafia romance
🖤 antiheroes
🖤 Love triangle
🖤 romantic suspense
🖤 Cinderella vibes
Drew was barely surviving working as a hooker and cleaner in a motel when her path crosses with Jesse Astor. Artist to the world but actually the muscle behind Astor empire. He offers her an opportunity that she cannot refuse. But Riley Astor, the real king of the Astor empire and Jesse's brother in all that matters, wants her too. She is thrown into a world of rich, powerful and violence while torn between two brothers who never felt so possessive about their women.
Love triangles are always hard and specially when I fall for the wrong brother. I won't say Drew's choice. Jesse is moody and dark and edgy. His interactions with Drew are always borderline hostile because he is so aggressive with his desire and occasionally, his feels. Riley hold more power but he has a caring and swooning and worshipping kind of way when it comes to Drew. Their love are in contrast. Drew came from a harsh background where survival of the fittest is the only rule. The Astors are showing her a world she only dreamt of. They are giving her every opportunity and power. But at what cost? Riley fulfills her need to be loved sweetly. He fills a gap in her soul. Jesse unleashes a primal part in her that's fierce and twisted. These two very powerful men always had a strict arrangement with their women but Drew's arrival crashed it all. Drew is so brave and resilient. She has been through so much trauma. She has a tough time in believing that she deserves something good. But her men won't stop till she becomes the queen. It was a difficult choice and that almost broke me. There were lots of emotional ups and downs with filthy hot chemistry. The ending has a beautiful twist but her HEA came with one man only.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
🖤 dark mafia romance
🖤 antiheroes
🖤 Love triangle
🖤 romantic suspense
🖤 Cinderella vibes
Drew was barely surviving working as a hooker and cleaner in a motel when her path crosses with Jesse Astor. Artist to the world but actually the muscle behind Astor empire. He offers her an opportunity that she cannot refuse. But Riley Astor, the real king of the Astor empire and Jesse's brother in all that matters, wants her too. She is thrown into a world of rich, powerful and violence while torn between two brothers who never felt so possessive about their women.
Love triangles are always hard and specially when I fall for the wrong brother. I won't say Drew's choice. Jesse is moody and dark and edgy. His interactions with Drew are always borderline hostile because he is so aggressive with his desire and occasionally, his feels. Riley hold more power but he has a caring and swooning and worshipping kind of way when it comes to Drew. Their love are in contrast. Drew came from a harsh background where survival of the fittest is the only rule. The Astors are showing her a world she only dreamt of. They are giving her every opportunity and power. But at what cost? Riley fulfills her need to be loved sweetly. He fills a gap in her soul. Jesse unleashes a primal part in her that's fierce and twisted. These two very powerful men always had a strict arrangement with their women but Drew's arrival crashed it all. Drew is so brave and resilient. She has been through so much trauma. She has a tough time in believing that she deserves something good. But her men won't stop till she becomes the queen. It was a difficult choice and that almost broke me. There were lots of emotional ups and downs with filthy hot chemistry. The ending has a beautiful twist but her HEA came with one man only.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
January 19, 2025
The first chapter of this book immediately grabbed my attention! I made a point not to read the blurb beforehand—I wanted to go in blind—and all I can say is, wow. Initially, I was curious about what Jesse wanted with Drew. As the story progressed, though, I found myself a bit confused about how they ended up in their arrangement. Between that and the odd dynamics with the brothers, I was hooked enough to keep reading and see how it all unfolds.
While it wasn’t as spicy as I typically like, the few moments of heat that did appear were definitely impactful.
The book was full of twists and turns, and the ending left me feeling really sad and heartbroken for certain characters. It felt like they didn’t give someone a fair chance (without giving too much away), which was frustrating.
Overall, it was a solid read, and I’d definitely recommend it.
January 20, 2025
Wow Misfire was so much more than I expected and the tropes are this mafia loving girl’s favorite. We have two very hot and powerful mafia men ( Jesse and Riley) and one broken hooker ( Destiny/ Drew). Now I’ve read a lot of books and Misfire had a plot that I haven’t read before and I loved it. I really loved all the side characters, especially Callie and Chaz, they stood out for me. Even though the men are mafia Jesse is definitely the darkness while Riley is the light. Drew who grew up not knowing love and kindness got it in spades from Riley. Watching the struggle both men had with sharing Drew was so tough but she ended up with exactly who she was ment to be. And all those curve balls, Misfire left me never knowing what would happen next.
January 27, 2025
Thank you to Hambright PR for the free book.
I can’t say I’ve ever read a book like this one. Misfire went into so many ways I didn’t expect.
Destiny (AKA Drew) is surviving by working as a housekeeper and prostitute when she happens upon the Astor brothers. They are definitely morally grey and immediately she’s drawn into their dark, mafia world.
I don’t want to spoil anything since this is such a wild plot—just know that yes, there is a happily ever after, and no, this doesn’t end up as a why choose situation. At the end, I’m satisfied with how it went. It was dark and angsty with spicy steam, yet had enough moments of hope and love.
Overall, Misfire was such an interesting story but definitely check out the trigger warnings first!
I can’t say I’ve ever read a book like this one. Misfire went into so many ways I didn’t expect.
Destiny (AKA Drew) is surviving by working as a housekeeper and prostitute when she happens upon the Astor brothers. They are definitely morally grey and immediately she’s drawn into their dark, mafia world.
I don’t want to spoil anything since this is such a wild plot—just know that yes, there is a happily ever after, and no, this doesn’t end up as a why choose situation. At the end, I’m satisfied with how it went. It was dark and angsty with spicy steam, yet had enough moments of hope and love.
Overall, Misfire was such an interesting story but definitely check out the trigger warnings first!
February 1, 2025
I don't think I could find a hotter book this year! And can you blame me when there is not one, but TWO MMCS?!
Drew grew up living her life for everyone else. She was used by men for their pleasure and used by women to do their dirty work.
She arrives in the first Astor brother's room to clean and presumably do other things, when instead he saves her.
She is offered a respectable job and an out from her grandmother's clutches in a fiery inferno. No exaggeration.
But there's his twin that she can't keep her mind off of either. They are polar opposites in everything except one thing: they both want Drew and will do anything to get her.
If you love dark romance and in need of a lot of steam, this is the book for you! Rachel Robinson has done it again!
Drew grew up living her life for everyone else. She was used by men for their pleasure and used by women to do their dirty work.
She arrives in the first Astor brother's room to clean and presumably do other things, when instead he saves her.
She is offered a respectable job and an out from her grandmother's clutches in a fiery inferno. No exaggeration.
But there's his twin that she can't keep her mind off of either. They are polar opposites in everything except one thing: they both want Drew and will do anything to get her.
If you love dark romance and in need of a lot of steam, this is the book for you! Rachel Robinson has done it again!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews