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Mafia Wars #3
Ruining Dahlia
I was sold to my enemies. And not just my enemies. I was sold to monsters.
I should know all about how to survive monsters though, I come from a family of them.
We aren't Butchers in name only, and surely the Rossi family can’t be as bad as the devil that’s been destroying me since I was eight years old.
New York City, the powerful head of the Cosa Nostra, is my new home. Where Lucian, Raphael, and Gabriel Rossi now think they own me.
The thing they don't realize is that I'm more than what I seem.
A dahlia has always bloomed best in the light, and even though everything about this place and these men is shrouded in darkness, I’m determined to thrive…to win.
They play a game for keeps, a game where the only rule is that there are no rules.
They want to ruin me. But what disturbs me most is that I just might like it.
It’s me against them, and only time will tell If I'll be the winner or be destroyed in these cruel and merciless Mafia Wars.
I should know all about how to survive monsters though, I come from a family of them.
We aren't Butchers in name only, and surely the Rossi family can’t be as bad as the devil that’s been destroying me since I was eight years old.
New York City, the powerful head of the Cosa Nostra, is my new home. Where Lucian, Raphael, and Gabriel Rossi now think they own me.
The thing they don't realize is that I'm more than what I seem.
A dahlia has always bloomed best in the light, and even though everything about this place and these men is shrouded in darkness, I’m determined to thrive…to win.
They play a game for keeps, a game where the only rule is that there are no rules.
They want to ruin me. But what disturbs me most is that I just might like it.
It’s me against them, and only time will tell If I'll be the winner or be destroyed in these cruel and merciless Mafia Wars.
534 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2022
About the author
C.R. Jane
86 books3,515 followersI'm a wife, mother, and author! Writing has always been a passion for me, and publishing my first series is a dream come true. I drink too much caffeine, never sleep, and my imagination is always churning out ideas. Eva and her men have been in my head for awhile, and I'm so glad to finally take you with me on this journey!
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February 6, 2022***dnf @75%***
Love triangles are bad enough for me, but LOVE CUBES are even worse.
Mafia Wars series goin’ down hill one by one.
Love triangles are bad enough for me, but LOVE CUBES are even worse.
Mafia Wars series goin’ down hill one by one.
February 25, 2022
It’s hard to do an RH in under 600 pages. So I’m assuming that if this didn’t need to be a standalone we would have gotten all the character and relationship development this book desperately needed. As is? It’s just 4 very horny people having a lot of sex and thinking a lot about sex.
And mafia dons making wedding mood boards on Pinterest. Who knew that was even a thing. 🤷🏼♀️
Bottom Line? I finished, but mostly I was wondering how the author was gonna pull this off in a standalone… and I’m not sure she did. These big bad mafia dudes were just beta simps overcome with instalove for the nympho virgin h. 🙄 ⭐️⭐️
⚠️SAFETY SQUAD SPOILERS⚠️
- cheating - depends on your definition - the H that the h is engaged to (arranged marriage) gets a bj from another woman at their engagement party. She witnesses it. They haven’t been intimate yet, but they are officially engaged.
- sharing - this is an RH 🤡
- OW drama - the h witnesses 2 of her men getting blowies.
- OM drama - all 3 men are a little jealous of each other
- no dubcon
- some bondage
- h is a virgin - she has never had consensual sex - she was raped as a child by a family member
- All Hs are manwhores
- condoms used
- graphic depictions of child molestation - including anal rape
- self harm via cutting - no help sought after - one H encourages it and maybe finds it sexy??? 🙈
- descriptions of animal abuse
And mafia dons making wedding mood boards on Pinterest. Who knew that was even a thing. 🤷🏼♀️
Bottom Line? I finished, but mostly I was wondering how the author was gonna pull this off in a standalone… and I’m not sure she did. These big bad mafia dudes were just beta simps overcome with instalove for the nympho virgin h. 🙄 ⭐️⭐️
⚠️SAFETY SQUAD SPOILERS⚠️
- cheating - depends on your definition - the H that the h is engaged to (arranged marriage) gets a bj from another woman at their engagement party. She witnesses it. They haven’t been intimate yet, but they are officially engaged.
- sharing - this is an RH 🤡
- OW drama - the h witnesses 2 of her men getting blowies.
- OM drama - all 3 men are a little jealous of each other
- no dubcon
- some bondage
- h is a virgin - she has never had consensual sex - she was raped as a child by a family member
- All Hs are manwhores
- condoms used
- graphic depictions of child molestation - including anal rape
- self harm via cutting - no help sought after - one H encourages it and maybe finds it sexy??? 🙈
- descriptions of animal abuse
February 7, 2022
4/5 stars
Woah this book was good. I had seen it being promoted on Tiktok so as soon as it dropped on my Kindle I read it in one go. It's been a while since I enjoyed a mafia romance. Each character was complex and unique, which really sealed the deal for me. I loved how their POV’S were distinctive to their character. They all had experienced trauma and they had worked through that trauma together. I must say that Gabriel was my favourite. Highly recommend this book!!!
Woah this book was good. I had seen it being promoted on Tiktok so as soon as it dropped on my Kindle I read it in one go. It's been a while since I enjoyed a mafia romance. Each character was complex and unique, which really sealed the deal for me. I loved how their POV’S were distinctive to their character. They all had experienced trauma and they had worked through that trauma together. I must say that Gabriel was my favourite. Highly recommend this book!!!
February 4, 2022
YESSSS! 🙌🏼 When I think Mafia books, THIS is the kind of book that comes to mind. I’m obsessed. (Anyone else read that sentence and think of the TikTok sound “I don’t think you understand, I’m obsessed” No? Just me? Cool).
Anyway, seriously loved everything about this book. The writing style, the characters, the back stories for each character, the plot, all. of. it. 👏🏼 Each of the brothers were so different and their personalities were perfect. Gabriel was my absolute favorite- he’s a little bit crazy and a whole lot cinnamon roll.
“What are you going to do with the grenades?" I asked.
"Blow myself up if she dies."
Hmm. Good plan. I grabbed a grenade too…just in case.
The individual relationships between Dahlia and each of the three men were so unique and developed at different paces. I loooved that! This was one of those books that was under 600 pages but was wrote in a way that felt much longer - in the best possible way! I didn’t want it to end.
Girl. Don’t even get me started on the dirty talk! 🥵 The MOUTHS on these MEN! Ahem! 😮💨😮💨 SO DANG GOOD!
Anyway, seriously loved everything about this book. The writing style, the characters, the back stories for each character, the plot, all. of. it. 👏🏼 Each of the brothers were so different and their personalities were perfect. Gabriel was my absolute favorite- he’s a little bit crazy and a whole lot cinnamon roll.
“What are you going to do with the grenades?" I asked.
"Blow myself up if she dies."
Hmm. Good plan. I grabbed a grenade too…just in case.
The individual relationships between Dahlia and each of the three men were so unique and developed at different paces. I loooved that! This was one of those books that was under 600 pages but was wrote in a way that felt much longer - in the best possible way! I didn’t want it to end.
Girl. Don’t even get me started on the dirty talk! 🥵 The MOUTHS on these MEN! Ahem! 😮💨😮💨 SO DANG GOOD!
February 7, 2022
2.5⭐
Sorry, but it's rant time. This could have been good, it's a bit ott with all drama (have to suspend the belief yet still enjoyable), had decent steam and also at least 2 decent Hs🙄 and it was intriguing enough as I couldn't stop reading...but.. one major point had me just like WTF.
One of the Hs, who is arranged to be married with the h is cold and distant and wants to push her away. So on their engagement party there is obviously "obligatory cliche bj" from another women (high class escort/wh0re). Obviously the h walks in and sees it.. he cums whilst h is watching 👀 .. at least she decks the girl which I found pretty funny.. !
As you continue with the story that scene didn't add anything to plot as it's resolves within few chapters:
* you find out he was only able to cum cause h was watching..🤓
* the reason he did it was kind of a "non-reason" that he needed release cause he is stressd..
*he marries her 2 days after and becomes possessive, promises fidelity.
Now even if I found this meh, they are on arranged marriage so they don't own anything to each other yet..
Well, as it happens - it's hinted at the beginning that he gathered all the information about her since he knew for about 10 years that he is honna marry her. Now, at about 70% it's confirmed that he has been obsessed with her, jacking off to her before meeting her and stalking her internet presence, pinterest included.. So, he is the one who has been gifting her things she pinned, etc..and he was the one to arrange the engagement party and the wedding party the way she wanted cause again - Pinterest.. so yes - this obsessed mafia guy arranges the fcuking engagement party and wedding based on h pinterest but he gets a bj from a wh0re the same night at the party???? How is that for consistency of a character..
And I rest my case ( or rant) now..
On final note, I noticed that I prefer RH if it's a duet or series. Because there are more than 2 main characters, I feel like they need more "on-screen time" for the development.
Sorry, but it's rant time. This could have been good, it's a bit ott with all drama (have to suspend the belief yet still enjoyable), had decent steam and also at least 2 decent Hs🙄 and it was intriguing enough as I couldn't stop reading...but.. one major point had me just like WTF.
One of the Hs, who is arranged to be married with the h is cold and distant and wants to push her away. So on their engagement party there is obviously "obligatory cliche bj" from another women (high class escort/wh0re). Obviously the h walks in and sees it.. he cums whilst h is watching 👀 .. at least she decks the girl which I found pretty funny.. !
As you continue with the story that scene didn't add anything to plot as it's resolves within few chapters:
* you find out he was only able to cum cause h was watching..🤓
* the reason he did it was kind of a "non-reason" that he needed release cause he is stressd..
*he marries her 2 days after and becomes possessive, promises fidelity.
Now even if I found this meh, they are on arranged marriage so they don't own anything to each other yet..
Well, as it happens - it's hinted at the beginning that he gathered all the information about her since he knew for about 10 years that he is honna marry her. Now, at about 70% it's confirmed that he has been obsessed with her, jacking off to her before meeting her and stalking her internet presence, pinterest included.. So, he is the one who has been gifting her things she pinned, etc..and he was the one to arrange the engagement party and the wedding party the way she wanted cause again - Pinterest.. so yes - this obsessed mafia guy arranges the fcuking engagement party and wedding based on h pinterest but he gets a bj from a wh0re the same night at the party???? How is that for consistency of a character..
And I rest my case ( or rant) now..
On final note, I noticed that I prefer RH if it's a duet or series. Because there are more than 2 main characters, I feel like they need more "on-screen time" for the development.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2022
This review will contain mild spoilers that focus on trigger warnings and pacing. It should not give anything significant away that would ruin the story for anyone who hasn’t read it yet.
Trigger warnings.
This has become a new “passion” of mine because it makes me really angry every time I feel blindsided. On a side note, if you are going to mention “heed the trigger warnings” in your review, give us a f*cking clue as to what the TWs contain!!!!!
Semi-graphic descriptions of past sexual abuse/assault and rape (anal, to the point of bleeding) of a child. Referenced multiple times throughout the book.
Semi-graphic on the page descriptions of current attempted sexual assault of the FMC x 3.
Descriptive self harm (cutting) and talk of suicide with no discussion of receiving or seeking out professional help (three of these characters are in desperate need of professional help based on their traumas and because these traumas were not addressed, professionally or with each other, I did feel that some of the sexual scenes were uncomfortable, not sexy, because of past sexual abuse, but that’s just my opinion).
Animal abuse/cruelty. There are multiple passages talking about animals being killed and mutilated, including two pets (a cat and a bunny - the bunny was rather descriptive).
OW drama by two of the MMCs. One of which occurs at the engagement dinner well after they met.
Food allergies. One of the MMC asks the FMC if she has any food allergies. She says yes and proceeds to describe what happened to her when they discovered she had this food allergy (this is a personal trigger for me as I have severe anxiety related to anaphylaxis). On a continuity note, this allergy is mentioned twice, once in the beginning and once toward the end, but the author changed the food that the FMC is allergic to so that was kind of annoying editing.
Pacing/content
The author can write an engaging story, but I just felt like the pacing for the relationship growth of these characters was off and I had a really hard time connecting to any of the characters. I felt there were too many side dramas/stories and not enough focus on her relationships with the guys. And their relationships with each other. This did not end with the strong cohesive bond between all parties in the reverse harem that I have grown accustomed to in these books, they all felt like individual units connecting with the same woman (I hope her other RH books are not like this). Overall I just felt frustrated while reading this. And I did want to give up multiple times, but the author can write well and I have a couple of other books of hers on my TBR list so I wanted to finish this.
I appreciate the author’s note at the end and it’s good to know that this has been her darkest content yet and that even she struggled with the content. I just wish authors could find another way to show struggle and growth with their characters instead of resulting to sexual abuse and rape of children (or adults tbh), especially if they are then going to include even a hint of description of what that abuse entailed.
Trigger warnings.
This has become a new “passion” of mine because it makes me really angry every time I feel blindsided. On a side note, if you are going to mention “heed the trigger warnings” in your review, give us a f*cking clue as to what the TWs contain!!!!!
Semi-graphic descriptions of past sexual abuse/assault and rape (anal, to the point of bleeding) of a child. Referenced multiple times throughout the book.
Semi-graphic on the page descriptions of current attempted sexual assault of the FMC x 3.
Descriptive self harm (cutting) and talk of suicide with no discussion of receiving or seeking out professional help (three of these characters are in desperate need of professional help based on their traumas and because these traumas were not addressed, professionally or with each other, I did feel that some of the sexual scenes were uncomfortable, not sexy, because of past sexual abuse, but that’s just my opinion).
Animal abuse/cruelty. There are multiple passages talking about animals being killed and mutilated, including two pets (a cat and a bunny - the bunny was rather descriptive).
OW drama by two of the MMCs. One of which occurs at the engagement dinner well after they met.
Food allergies. One of the MMC asks the FMC if she has any food allergies. She says yes and proceeds to describe what happened to her when they discovered she had this food allergy (this is a personal trigger for me as I have severe anxiety related to anaphylaxis). On a continuity note, this allergy is mentioned twice, once in the beginning and once toward the end, but the author changed the food that the FMC is allergic to so that was kind of annoying editing.
Pacing/content
The author can write an engaging story, but I just felt like the pacing for the relationship growth of these characters was off and I had a really hard time connecting to any of the characters. I felt there were too many side dramas/stories and not enough focus on her relationships with the guys. And their relationships with each other. This did not end with the strong cohesive bond between all parties in the reverse harem that I have grown accustomed to in these books, they all felt like individual units connecting with the same woman (I hope her other RH books are not like this). Overall I just felt frustrated while reading this. And I did want to give up multiple times, but the author can write well and I have a couple of other books of hers on my TBR list so I wanted to finish this.
I appreciate the author’s note at the end and it’s good to know that this has been her darkest content yet and that even she struggled with the content. I just wish authors could find another way to show struggle and growth with their characters instead of resulting to sexual abuse and rape of children (or adults tbh), especially if they are then going to include even a hint of description of what that abuse entailed.
June 14, 2022
Wowww probably the darkest book I've ever read and I LOVED every second of it 😩❤️
This is a extremely dark (read all the triggers before reading!) mafia romance with two of my favorite tropes (arranged marriage and reverse harem). I love it that the book is massive because I found myself binge reading throughout the night and wanting more and more!
It's truly amazing how the author was able to make me go from loathing Raphael and Lucian in the beginning to becoming obsessed with them by the end of the book. Gabriel I loved from the very start, impossible not to love him with his warm and charming personality (I loved the obsessive side to it). Take the title of the book very seriously because these mafia men truly RUIN Dahlia 🔥🥵
There are some amazing plot twists that had me guessing until the very end, now I need to read all the books in the Mafia Wars (I need to know Valentina's story!!)
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
This is a extremely dark (read all the triggers before reading!) mafia romance with two of my favorite tropes (arranged marriage and reverse harem). I love it that the book is massive because I found myself binge reading throughout the night and wanting more and more!
It's truly amazing how the author was able to make me go from loathing Raphael and Lucian in the beginning to becoming obsessed with them by the end of the book. Gabriel I loved from the very start, impossible not to love him with his warm and charming personality (I loved the obsessive side to it). Take the title of the book very seriously because these mafia men truly RUIN Dahlia 🔥🥵
There are some amazing plot twists that had me guessing until the very end, now I need to read all the books in the Mafia Wars (I need to know Valentina's story!!)
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
September 18, 2022
Great mafia read! Add in RH with brothers and I was sold. I almost wish it were a tad bit longer because I wanted more from one of the brothers. They rule the city and soon will rule over sweet, but not so innocent Dahlia.
Poor girl was just a pawn. A name on a contract that would smooth things over between bad men. She refused to be docile. Put on a brave face and moved away from home. Landing in New York she finds out just how much of a nobody a mafia princess truly is. Tossed aside and forgotten by two brothers. Only to be taken under the dark wing of another. Was any of it real?
One brother is fighting his own demons and wants nothing to do with her, despite the fact she is to be his wife. One brother just wants to play with her like a toy, breaking her because he can. The other falls hard, but also is known for that so what can she really believe.
So many twists and turns! An intense plot that kept be reading late into the night. So many smexy scenes! Hello first class. Gahhh! I'm gonna be remembering that as I walk down the plane aisle from now until forever.
I really loved one brother almost instantly. Another wanted me punching him in the nuts. The other one almost had me hating him... but by the end, I fell hard, just like the heroine.
Poor girl was just a pawn. A name on a contract that would smooth things over between bad men. She refused to be docile. Put on a brave face and moved away from home. Landing in New York she finds out just how much of a nobody a mafia princess truly is. Tossed aside and forgotten by two brothers. Only to be taken under the dark wing of another. Was any of it real?
One brother is fighting his own demons and wants nothing to do with her, despite the fact she is to be his wife. One brother just wants to play with her like a toy, breaking her because he can. The other falls hard, but also is known for that so what can she really believe.
So many twists and turns! An intense plot that kept be reading late into the night. So many smexy scenes! Hello first class. Gahhh! I'm gonna be remembering that as I walk down the plane aisle from now until forever.
I really loved one brother almost instantly. Another wanted me punching him in the nuts. The other one almost had me hating him... but by the end, I fell hard, just like the heroine.
January 15, 2023
3.5 stars
Angsty, slow burn romance
Great mafia story with some amazing antiheroes -- sweet and caring but OCD Gabriel; psycho and cunning Raphael; and controlled and dominant Lucian, the mafioso. Dahlia, a mixture of sweet and daring, was promised in marriage to Lucian as part of the Cosa Nostra solidarity agreement. However, after arriving from England, she finds herself rebuffed and ignored by her new fiancé while Gabriel, wildly infatuated, keeps her near; and Raphael, a mixture of push and pull and derision.
This was an engaging story and told from multiple points of view, every character possessed a troubling history to become the flawed persons with which they interacted in the world and each other. These were gun-totting mafia men, unafraid to met out of violence when necessary. Dahlia and these antiheroes were depicted with a great depth of development, all experiencing pasts of childhood trauma.
While sexual tension abounded -- the chemistry was tangible -- the story would have been well-served with more spice particularly for a reverse harem, and it felt mostly like teasing. This reverse harem evolved and was more individual interaction with the heroine rather than group, which I didn't particularly mind as it created some juicy jealousy but a bit of disconnect.
Toward a little over half way, the story slowed, the pace pausing. Still entertaining, but I was left wondering where it intended to go and how soon. For me this wasn't a dark romance but did contain some dark elements. Overall, a great read an angsty romance with some twists. I would enjoy more works from this author ideally with more spice, plot progression, as she nailed the emotions.
Angsty, slow burn romance
Great mafia story with some amazing antiheroes -- sweet and caring but OCD Gabriel; psycho and cunning Raphael; and controlled and dominant Lucian, the mafioso. Dahlia, a mixture of sweet and daring, was promised in marriage to Lucian as part of the Cosa Nostra solidarity agreement. However, after arriving from England, she finds herself rebuffed and ignored by her new fiancé while Gabriel, wildly infatuated, keeps her near; and Raphael, a mixture of push and pull and derision.
This was an engaging story and told from multiple points of view, every character possessed a troubling history to become the flawed persons with which they interacted in the world and each other. These were gun-totting mafia men, unafraid to met out of violence when necessary. Dahlia and these antiheroes were depicted with a great depth of development, all experiencing pasts of childhood trauma.
While sexual tension abounded -- the chemistry was tangible -- the story would have been well-served with more spice particularly for a reverse harem, and it felt mostly like teasing. This reverse harem evolved and was more individual interaction with the heroine rather than group, which I didn't particularly mind as it created some juicy jealousy but a bit of disconnect.
Toward a little over half way, the story slowed, the pace pausing. Still entertaining, but I was left wondering where it intended to go and how soon. For me this wasn't a dark romance but did contain some dark elements. Overall, a great read an angsty romance with some twists. I would enjoy more works from this author ideally with more spice, plot progression, as she nailed the emotions.
November 20, 2024
Знову гарем...
Книга дивна.
з героїв сподобався Габріель.
Всі інші диваки ще ті, особливо Люциан.
Короче 500+ стр, ні про що.
Книга дивна.
з героїв сподобався Габріель.
Всі інші диваки ще ті, особливо Люциан.
Короче 500+ стр, ні про що.
March 24, 2023
I don’t even know where to start so I’ll start w how every 5 minutes I would think “This book was definitely written by a 14 year old wattpad author.” Truthfully, I’ve read better mafia romances on wattpad compared to this book.
I finished it cause it was easy to read so that’s something. The plot was all over the place tho and the writing was so cringey..literally all my annotations were just to make fun of the characters and whatever the fck they were saying.
It’s also insta love. The ratings people are giving this book are false..I cannot stress this enough—this book is definitely not a 5 star read idk what the other readers are on because this book is a 1.5 star at best
Don’t recommend
I finished it cause it was easy to read so that’s something. The plot was all over the place tho and the writing was so cringey..literally all my annotations were just to make fun of the characters and whatever the fck they were saying.
It’s also insta love. The ratings people are giving this book are false..I cannot stress this enough—this book is definitely not a 5 star read idk what the other readers are on because this book is a 1.5 star at best
Don’t recommend
February 18, 2022
Mafia 🤝 reverse harem. This combination makes me a very happy gal.
This is part of a shared world mafia series of standalones by different authors in which each book is a different couple getting married to unite 2 of 6 warring mafia families. Dahlia comes from the London Firm, and is being sent to marry Lucien Rossi of the New York Cosa Nostra (as well as his two brothers heyooo). Neither of them really want to be in this situation, so we get a lot of juicy enemies to lovers/forced proximity angst, and I ate that shit up.
Each of the three Rossi brothers are very different, and I love when RH has so much variety in each guys individual dynamic with the FMC as well as with each other. We got a cold one, a literal sociopath, and an emotional support himbo. What more could a girl want?
Keep in mind, each of the main characters has some kind of trauma/PTSD. So please check triggers before reading.
This is part of a shared world mafia series of standalones by different authors in which each book is a different couple getting married to unite 2 of 6 warring mafia families. Dahlia comes from the London Firm, and is being sent to marry Lucien Rossi of the New York Cosa Nostra (as well as his two brothers heyooo). Neither of them really want to be in this situation, so we get a lot of juicy enemies to lovers/forced proximity angst, and I ate that shit up.
Each of the three Rossi brothers are very different, and I love when RH has so much variety in each guys individual dynamic with the FMC as well as with each other. We got a cold one, a literal sociopath, and an emotional support himbo. What more could a girl want?
Keep in mind, each of the main characters has some kind of trauma/PTSD. So please check triggers before reading.
March 22, 2022
Ruining Dahlia is technically the second installment of the Mafia Wars series. Just like in the first book, we see them all meeting and agreeing to this new peace treaty. In this, you will meet Lucian and Dahlia. She is part of the mafia located in Britain and he's in the Italian mafia.
In the beginning, you see her getting it on with Raphael. Which, yes, is okay but he's not the fiancé. Nope, he's the fiancé's brother. Well, half-brother but details. I'll admit I was kind of confused as to why that happened, but she somehow developed feelings with him beforehand. It didn't really seem to bother Lucian if I remember.
As for the characters? Eh, they were okay, but I wasn't invested in them by any means. The drama was also kind of annoying to read about because I just didn't care. Unless it was about Dahlia's past which definitely intrigued me. I wanted that certain asshole to suffer.
In the end, I'm still not quite sure what the overall mystery is in these books, but whatever. Not sure if I will jump into the next book or not. Depends on my mood, I guess.
In the beginning, you see her getting it on with Raphael. Which, yes, is okay but he's not the fiancé. Nope, he's the fiancé's brother. Well, half-brother but details. I'll admit I was kind of confused as to why that happened, but she somehow developed feelings with him beforehand. It didn't really seem to bother Lucian if I remember.
As for the characters? Eh, they were okay, but I wasn't invested in them by any means. The drama was also kind of annoying to read about because I just didn't care. Unless it was about Dahlia's past which definitely intrigued me. I wanted that certain asshole to suffer.
In the end, I'm still not quite sure what the overall mystery is in these books, but whatever. Not sure if I will jump into the next book or not. Depends on my mood, I guess.
November 20, 2022
I should have read the reviews
What a crazy mixed up horrible awful bad book for me! I thought it was a straight boy girl romance and then it morphed into a polyamorous relationship and I freaked out. I wasn't expecting that at all. I definitely don't like those type of books but I read it and I still don't like it. So ignore this review but I really didn't know about the one woman, three guy relationship, the child Sexual abuse by the uncle, the cutting, and it was just too much for me. But again personal opinion and the book was just not for me. Be prepared. There are a lot of triggers.
What a crazy mixed up horrible awful bad book for me! I thought it was a straight boy girl romance and then it morphed into a polyamorous relationship and I freaked out. I wasn't expecting that at all. I definitely don't like those type of books but I read it and I still don't like it. So ignore this review but I really didn't know about the one woman, three guy relationship, the child Sexual abuse by the uncle, the cutting, and it was just too much for me. But again personal opinion and the book was just not for me. Be prepared. There are a lot of triggers.
March 9, 2022
Now this was way better than the other two books about the Mexican and Irish cartels. Doesn't mean it's the best, just says how mehhh the other two were. A hard 3.5, but since Goodreads doesn't allow you to put decimal ratings it's 4.
Something I wished that was explored more was the heroine's existing trauma. I've read books where heroines with SA in the past, suddenly feel comfortable in the hands of their big bad heroes and are ready to try anything sexual with them. There is no leaning curve or time taken to reach that stage of complete transparency. For example, there's a scene where Lucian asks Dahlia if she loved her ex, whom he brutally killed before their wedding. To that, she says, "No Lucien, I'm not even capable of loving myself." For a woman who's shown to be cold and indifferent since the first page, she falls in love so damn easily! 🤦🏾♀️ It took her less than a week to fall all over Lucien's brother, Gabriel. Gabriel was definitely a new type of character. He's said to be the kind of guy who falls head over heels for a girl and does everything for her and ends up losing interest after a few weeks all because of his obsessive personality. And surprise surprise, for the first time, he feels a lot more for Dahlia and wants her in his life forever. 🙄
Then there was the very obvious mistake in editing, where Dahlia wakes up one morning and sees that Gabriel has prepared a breakfast spread for them with eggs, sausages and bacon..cut to 40 pages later where he's taking her to an Italian restaurant and asks, "You're not vegetarian, are you?". So maybe the eggs and bacon from the previous scene were plant based or that was just something that was missed during editing?
I'm just unhappy with how short the story was. Don't get me wrong, this book was pretty long, 400 pages long. But I felt that majority of the drama/suspense happened in the last few pages and by that time, the story was already coming to an end.
Maybe an extended epilogue? Pretty please?
Something I wished that was explored more was the heroine's existing trauma. I've read books where heroines with SA in the past, suddenly feel comfortable in the hands of their big bad heroes and are ready to try anything sexual with them. There is no leaning curve or time taken to reach that stage of complete transparency. For example, there's a scene where Lucian asks Dahlia if she loved her ex, whom he brutally killed before their wedding. To that, she says, "No Lucien, I'm not even capable of loving myself." For a woman who's shown to be cold and indifferent since the first page, she falls in love so damn easily! 🤦🏾♀️ It took her less than a week to fall all over Lucien's brother, Gabriel. Gabriel was definitely a new type of character. He's said to be the kind of guy who falls head over heels for a girl and does everything for her and ends up losing interest after a few weeks all because of his obsessive personality. And surprise surprise, for the first time, he feels a lot more for Dahlia and wants her in his life forever. 🙄
Then there was the very obvious mistake in editing, where Dahlia wakes up one morning and sees that Gabriel has prepared a breakfast spread for them with eggs, sausages and bacon..cut to 40 pages later where he's taking her to an Italian restaurant and asks, "You're not vegetarian, are you?". So maybe the eggs and bacon from the previous scene were plant based or that was just something that was missed during editing?
I'm just unhappy with how short the story was. Don't get me wrong, this book was pretty long, 400 pages long. But I felt that majority of the drama/suspense happened in the last few pages and by that time, the story was already coming to an end.
Maybe an extended epilogue? Pretty please?
March 10, 2022
I hit a midway wall and detracted from this for a bit, but I picked it up again last night and COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. The last 30-40% was so exciting and well done. Similar to Binding Rose, I really liked Dahlia. The poor girl has endured so much and my heart hurt for her. I am so glad that the shining light that was Gabriel was there for her. I think he was so necessary as a character and helped make this story so good. I believe if he was even remotely like Lucian or Raphael, it would have been too much dark and heavy.
I can understand how some would find Lucian irredeemable with what he did (i.e. during the wedding) and as much as I was getting frustrated with how he was with Dahlia, I totally became a fan of his during the last half. Gabriel was amazing and unicorn level. While Raphael was straight psycho, he and Dahlia's chemistry was so *fans self*.
I really appreciated that in addition to Dahlia having to deal with her past trauma, Lucian and Raphael both also had history that needed to be faced. I'm glad that it wasn't just about the relationship and solving family business problems, but each of the characters healing too.
I definitely recommend giving this a read if you're a fan of dark RHs, but I admit reading of Dahila's history and some of the things that happened to her was difficult.
I can understand how some would find Lucian irredeemable with what he did (i.e. during the wedding) and as much as I was getting frustrated with how he was with Dahlia, I totally became a fan of his during the last half. Gabriel was amazing and unicorn level. While Raphael was straight psycho, he and Dahlia's chemistry was so *fans self*.
I really appreciated that in addition to Dahlia having to deal with her past trauma, Lucian and Raphael both also had history that needed to be faced. I'm glad that it wasn't just about the relationship and solving family business problems, but each of the characters healing too.
I definitely recommend giving this a read if you're a fan of dark RHs, but I admit reading of Dahila's history and some of the things that happened to her was difficult.
June 23, 2022
Not me reading a booktok recommendation. A guilty pleasure.. that’s what these books are. I will say the author has a knack for writing though, and If given more time could really delve into character development and growth. Not a terrible story, and I appreciated the unconventional romance.. albeit a little strange. But 4 stars overall for a well written and interesting romance story.
Read
June 3, 2022TW: SA and raped by a family member (mc when she was 8-older), SA and rape (mc when he was younger), cutting/ harming self. (Those are what I picked up, there’s definitely more and if I remember any I’ll add them)
I read this book yesterday and I still am not sure how to rate it. I’ve seen a couple of videos about it on Booktok and the last one was something like “she gave her virginity to her fiancées brother on a plane”. Tbh it sounded interesting and I decided to read it.
*spoilers ahead*
I had no idea that it was RH before starting it. I figured it out a couple of chapters in. I was not a fan of the insta-love between her and literally all the men. Like I think by chapter 6 she mentions she was in love with one of them and Gabriel also said that he loved her. I know Raphael and Lucien didn’t admit it until later, but it was still instalove for the them (and even her tbh). When I started reading it I thought it would be like a mafia enemies to lovers but sadly it was not.
I also didn’t like when they (Dahlia and her fiancée Lucien) went to the event together and his brother, Gabriel, asked to dance with Dahlia so Lucien left them and took Raphael’s escort to the back so she can give him a bj. Dahlia then found them and said “finish him” while she stood there and watched. what😭 I know it’s an arranged marriage but that part was cringey for me, I’m sorry.
Also one of the things I disliked about this was when Lucien told Dahlia “he doesn’t love you he just has OCD” about Gabriel (I’m paraphrasing). I didn’t like that scene, I know OCD is different for everyone, in his case he was obsessed with women and loved them until he becomes obsessed with someone else. Honestly, I wasn’t a fan of that, especially because now she’s the love of his life and he thinks of no one else, lol ok. Anyways
This definitely wasn’t the book for me so I don’t think I’m going to be rating it. If I did rate it I think I would give it 2 stars. But, the reason I’m not rating it is because I didn’t read the synopsis and that’s on me. If I read the synopsis I would’ve known that it wasn’t for me and skipped it.
I don’t trust booktok w dark romances anymore😭 (that’s a lie but I still have to catch up with my TBR and all the books Tish recommends)
I read this book yesterday and I still am not sure how to rate it. I’ve seen a couple of videos about it on Booktok and the last one was something like “she gave her virginity to her fiancées brother on a plane”. Tbh it sounded interesting and I decided to read it.
*spoilers ahead*
I had no idea that it was RH before starting it. I figured it out a couple of chapters in. I was not a fan of the insta-love between her and literally all the men. Like I think by chapter 6 she mentions she was in love with one of them and Gabriel also said that he loved her. I know Raphael and Lucien didn’t admit it until later, but it was still instalove for the them (and even her tbh). When I started reading it I thought it would be like a mafia enemies to lovers but sadly it was not.
I also didn’t like when they (Dahlia and her fiancée Lucien) went to the event together and his brother, Gabriel, asked to dance with Dahlia so Lucien left them and took Raphael’s escort to the back so she can give him a bj. Dahlia then found them and said “finish him” while she stood there and watched. what😭 I know it’s an arranged marriage but that part was cringey for me, I’m sorry.
Also one of the things I disliked about this was when Lucien told Dahlia “he doesn’t love you he just has OCD” about Gabriel (I’m paraphrasing). I didn’t like that scene, I know OCD is different for everyone, in his case he was obsessed with women and loved them until he becomes obsessed with someone else. Honestly, I wasn’t a fan of that, especially because now she’s the love of his life and he thinks of no one else, lol ok. Anyways
This definitely wasn’t the book for me so I don’t think I’m going to be rating it. If I did rate it I think I would give it 2 stars. But, the reason I’m not rating it is because I didn’t read the synopsis and that’s on me. If I read the synopsis I would’ve known that it wasn’t for me and skipped it.
I don’t trust booktok w dark romances anymore😭 (that’s a lie but I still have to catch up with my TBR and all the books Tish recommends)
February 17, 2023
2.5⭐
I hated, despised, the first book of the series, DNF-ed the second but third time the charm, right? Nope, another failure.
I didn't connect or like any of the characters, wasn't particularly interested in the main plot( what was that, again?) and their relationship was so rushed that I didn't even know when they went from a bunch of horny -old- teenagers to being madly in love. O...kay.
I don't know what these authors have against rh because for the life of me I couldn't see any rh dynamic here, it was more of a love cube than anything. They were jealous of each other all the time with Dahlia sleeping and fooling around behind her husband's back ( correct me if I'm wrong but isn't that cheating?🙃). Something that I hate more than a love triangle? Love cube.
Anyway, I skipping the next book and going straight to the Butcher boys and Iris. If those too let me down... 🙄
I hated, despised, the first book of the series, DNF-ed the second but third time the charm, right? Nope, another failure.
I didn't connect or like any of the characters, wasn't particularly interested in the main plot( what was that, again?) and their relationship was so rushed that I didn't even know when they went from a bunch of horny -old- teenagers to being madly in love. O...kay.
I don't know what these authors have against rh because for the life of me I couldn't see any rh dynamic here, it was more of a love cube than anything. They were jealous of each other all the time with Dahlia sleeping and fooling around behind her husband's back ( correct me if I'm wrong but isn't that cheating?🙃). Something that I hate more than a love triangle? Love cube.
Anyway, I skipping the next book and going straight to the Butcher boys and Iris. If those too let me down... 🙄
August 24, 2022
KU READ
I really enjoyed this book. I loved reading the heroine's POV, her broken heart, everything. I liked how it introduced Raphael and Gabriel. Unfortunately, the connection to Lucian was too shallow and not introduced early enough for me to care much about it. I liked their enemies to lovers arc but they needed to spend more time together early on so that I'd end up caring. She was a ruined heroine, trying to pick up her pieces. I really liked the twist toward the end, but it was resolved VERY fast back to back with another conflict. The final 40% were either too dragged out or too fast-paced, especially toward the end where the conflicts just dropped like flies.
UPDATE
I still have two more books of this series to read I think but this book was by far the best so far
I really enjoyed this book. I loved reading the heroine's POV, her broken heart, everything. I liked how it introduced Raphael and Gabriel. Unfortunately, the connection to Lucian was too shallow and not introduced early enough for me to care much about it. I liked their enemies to lovers arc but they needed to spend more time together early on so that I'd end up caring. She was a ruined heroine, trying to pick up her pieces. I really liked the twist toward the end, but it was resolved VERY fast back to back with another conflict. The final 40% were either too dragged out or too fast-paced, especially toward the end where the conflicts just dropped like flies.
UPDATE
I still have two more books of this series to read I think but this book was by far the best so far
March 16, 2022
Wonderful Dark Mafias
This is a Dark Mafia with an arranged marriage trope with Reverse Harem and I really enjoyed it. It has action and it has 🔥 and I really got into the story
This is a Dark Mafia with an arranged marriage trope with Reverse Harem and I really enjoyed it. It has action and it has 🔥 and I really got into the story
March 12, 2022
3.5 Stars
This was an ok read for me. A mafia RH loaded with angst, drama and blood. Personally I just didn’t mesh with some of the drama or subject matter in the book. FYI there is some mention of sexual assault (graphic at times), abuse, cutting, cheating and OW drama that still has me heated. Dahlia really is a lamb to the slaughter when she’s sent overseas from Britain to New York into the arms of the Italian mafia. The Rossi brothers are cunning and hard to understand right off the bat. Aside from one, they’re barely tolerable and my feelings for them definitely wavered from contempt to bloodthirsty for much of the book. I also feel like some of the sensitive topics weren’t fully dealt with and the lack of epilogue didn’t help matters. The men felt a bit over the top to me especially with how they dealt with their problems, kind of like spoiled children. Considering Dahlia suffered her own kind of abuse she at least didn’t let it turn her into a complete asshole. While the book is lengthy I read it in a day and still got sucked into the drama, even of it wasn’t exactly my cup of tea.
This was an ok read for me. A mafia RH loaded with angst, drama and blood. Personally I just didn’t mesh with some of the drama or subject matter in the book. FYI there is some mention of sexual assault (graphic at times), abuse, cutting, cheating and OW drama that still has me heated. Dahlia really is a lamb to the slaughter when she’s sent overseas from Britain to New York into the arms of the Italian mafia. The Rossi brothers are cunning and hard to understand right off the bat. Aside from one, they’re barely tolerable and my feelings for them definitely wavered from contempt to bloodthirsty for much of the book. I also feel like some of the sensitive topics weren’t fully dealt with and the lack of epilogue didn’t help matters. The men felt a bit over the top to me especially with how they dealt with their problems, kind of like spoiled children. Considering Dahlia suffered her own kind of abuse she at least didn’t let it turn her into a complete asshole. While the book is lengthy I read it in a day and still got sucked into the drama, even of it wasn’t exactly my cup of tea.
September 1, 2022
So Ruining Dahlia has been my first ever foray into the realm of mafia romance and OH MY GOD this was a great start for me with this genre….I am now obsessed!! This one was the perfect starter for me, especially because it’s why choose AND forced marriage on top of it all?! Utter, smutty flawlessness.
I am completely captivated by Gabriel, Lucian, and Raphael. They are each delectably dangerous in their own unique ways; I really do not think I could pick a favorite!! Be sure to read trigger warnings prior to beginning the book, because this one is deliciously dark.
Huge thanks to C.R. Jane for gifting me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
I am completely captivated by Gabriel, Lucian, and Raphael. They are each delectably dangerous in their own unique ways; I really do not think I could pick a favorite!! Be sure to read trigger warnings prior to beginning the book, because this one is deliciously dark.
Huge thanks to C.R. Jane for gifting me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
February 9, 2022
Ruining Dahlia
10 years ago Dahlia was sold to the Cosa nostra in New York to bring peace between the mafia families so the wars will end.
Dahlia has gone through past trauma and you find out that the men in her life have also.
I love how dahlia is a self harmer, so many times in a book the fmc is fierce, confident and deals well with the problems life throws her way, you never see a fmc who struggles, has mental health issues and self harm.
Dahlia deals with her own trauma and helps the men with there's!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
10 years ago Dahlia was sold to the Cosa nostra in New York to bring peace between the mafia families so the wars will end.
Dahlia has gone through past trauma and you find out that the men in her life have also.
I love how dahlia is a self harmer, so many times in a book the fmc is fierce, confident and deals well with the problems life throws her way, you never see a fmc who struggles, has mental health issues and self harm.
Dahlia deals with her own trauma and helps the men with there's!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
January 26, 2024
if there had been group scenes… this would’ve been a 5 star read.
4.5 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
4.5 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
February 10, 2022
Reverse Harem
Dark Mafia Romance
Arranged marriage
“What are you going to do with the grenades?" I asked. "Blow myself up if she dies."
This fucking book was like crack. I had no problem telling myself this was fiction, in fact,
I could think of so many things I usually would've rolled my eyes about, but I just didn't care. I was going to continue on this dark path.
I stuck my head in the clouds and rode this crazy train into twisted town. This book had a jumpy vibe. I felt as if someone was always around the corner ready to grab me. Straight adrenaline forced me to keep reading.
The characters were messy, dirty, dark, and completely addictive. There were so many enemies and action within, yet I was solely focused on how the romance was going to play out. Honestly, the author could've split this up into a duet or even a series, because I didn't nearly get enough. I wanted to dive into the dark abyss of their souls and see what made them tick. I got the connection, yet it felt incomplete. Anyway, how dare this author make me want in such a manner. 🤣 Even through all the dark, I felt jealous that I didn't have a few psychopaths to obsess over me.
"The problem for Dahlia was that I didn't want to love her. I didn't want to make her happy. I just wanted to wrap her so tightly under my skin that she couldn't breathe unless I let her."
And don't get me started on the heat. Godsdammn! 🔥 If you like your romance on the twisted side, you'll definitely get it in this book.
Are you going to let him make you feel so good?” I moaned in answer, unable to form words. “You heard our girl, brother. She’s ready for you to fuck her with your tongue.”
I feel like I should warn you. I put dark romance at the top, that should tell you err on the side of caution. To all my dark romance friends, I highly recommend.
Dark Mafia Romance
Arranged marriage
“What are you going to do with the grenades?" I asked. "Blow myself up if she dies."
This fucking book was like crack. I had no problem telling myself this was fiction, in fact,
I could think of so many things I usually would've rolled my eyes about, but I just didn't care. I was going to continue on this dark path.
I stuck my head in the clouds and rode this crazy train into twisted town. This book had a jumpy vibe. I felt as if someone was always around the corner ready to grab me. Straight adrenaline forced me to keep reading.
The characters were messy, dirty, dark, and completely addictive. There were so many enemies and action within, yet I was solely focused on how the romance was going to play out. Honestly, the author could've split this up into a duet or even a series, because I didn't nearly get enough. I wanted to dive into the dark abyss of their souls and see what made them tick. I got the connection, yet it felt incomplete. Anyway, how dare this author make me want in such a manner. 🤣 Even through all the dark, I felt jealous that I didn't have a few psychopaths to obsess over me.
"The problem for Dahlia was that I didn't want to love her. I didn't want to make her happy. I just wanted to wrap her so tightly under my skin that she couldn't breathe unless I let her."
And don't get me started on the heat. Godsdammn! 🔥 If you like your romance on the twisted side, you'll definitely get it in this book.
Are you going to let him make you feel so good?” I moaned in answer, unable to form words. “You heard our girl, brother. She’s ready for you to fuck her with your tongue.”
I feel like I should warn you. I put dark romance at the top, that should tell you err on the side of caution. To all my dark romance friends, I highly recommend.
February 8, 2022
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 3.5/5 Stars
POV : Multiple
Cliffhanger : None
Pace of the story : Moderate
Review :
I have been reading all the books of this series and am quite obsessed with this mafia marriage trope these authors have going on. I am looking forward to reading more of this series .
This book was a one time read for me when it came to this genre. I was excited to read it because I had been following all the books of this world , but unfortunately this one did not hold my interest for a long time. I ended up dragging myself to finish it off.
I am still looking forward to reading books of this series by KA Knight , Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti because those are some of my most anticipated reads by my favorite authors!
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February 6, 2022
Ohhh Wow!!! wow!!!
What an amazing and very strong start!!!
C.R Jane managed to set the standard for this multi author series of book very high!
Very dark and complex characters with so many issues that you simply cannot not love.
The book is dark and delicious and hot and you just want to craddle it into your arms as you cry for what has gone down for those characters.
Yes its emotional is twisted it has lots of triggers but none of that matters in the greater scheme of things.
It's delicious and fast paced and filled with action and it will make you laugh and cry and when the twist comes it will break you heart and you will enjoy every single moment!!!!
What an amazing and very strong start!!!
C.R Jane managed to set the standard for this multi author series of book very high!
Very dark and complex characters with so many issues that you simply cannot not love.
The book is dark and delicious and hot and you just want to craddle it into your arms as you cry for what has gone down for those characters.
Yes its emotional is twisted it has lots of triggers but none of that matters in the greater scheme of things.
It's delicious and fast paced and filled with action and it will make you laugh and cry and when the twist comes it will break you heart and you will enjoy every single moment!!!!
February 6, 2022
Esta historia tuvo de todo; me mantuvo súper enganchada desde el inicio. Me gustó, porque sentí la diferencia entre cada personaje del harem - Lucian, Raphael y Gabriel. Me sorprendió que se trataron temas más “serios” de lo usual en esta serie de Mafia Wars, pero creo el mensaje en general estuvo lindo. Dahlia me entretuvo y su espíritu, gurl, brilló en momentos. Me hubiera gustado ver más de ellos en grupo y felices tho.
January 1, 2023
This book. I have so many feelings. I was so invested in this story. The writing was beautiful, the characters were complex and deep, the spice... bam. It was all on point. I fell in love with this masterpiece. By far one of my very favorite books of all time. I adore the unique relationships that Dahlia has with all of the guys, both all together and separately. The dynamic of it all just worked. C.R. Jane is an insta-buy author for me after this read. Infinity/5 stars!
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