While the writing is a little rough around the edges, the soapy quality of this light(ish) mafia romance held my attention. It’s not a storyline that I have EVER read before, which is always a huge plus for someone who reads as many romance novels as I do. There was something about that blurb (and great cover) that caught my eye, but I really didn’t know what to expect when I dove into this – and that’s half the fun. This turned out to be an entirely bingeable, opposites attract, mafia romance featuring a jaded antihero and the sheltered woman who throws him off balance. It’s kinda light and sexy for a mafia/forced marriage romance, and I honestly never knew where it was headed next. The romance sort of fizzles out in the back half, but I definitely enjoyed this as a whole.
The story follows Max, a man who has been working as a bodyguard for a mafia boss for the last five years. While he originally had (mysterious) noble intentions, this former good guy has slowly been slipping further into a life of crime. When Max’s boss sets his sights on a new (purchased) bride, it’s not surprising to Max – but he IS surprised by his own reaction to the woman. Madelyn is a ray of sunshine in Max’s otherwise dark life, and he finds himself drawn to her. But Madelyn is set to (unwillingly) marry another man, so crossing a line would be problematic for both of them.
I love a good mafia romance, and I tend to enjoy the ones that aren’t TOO dark. This was right up my alley – it’s pretty light overall and focuses on the drama and romance, rather than the heavier elements. The forbidden aspect worked for me – going in, I wasn’t sure if this was going to be a love triangle situation, but it’s really not. This has an instalove vibe and I would’ve appreciated more relationship development, but it’s clear from the start that it’s all about Max and Madelyn. The drama, unpredictable storyline, and soap opera feel are the best parts, as well as the opposites attract dynamic. The writing has great potential, and I think Wild will perfect her craft with time. It’s not a total win – I can absolutely identify elements of the story that floundered in the back half – but this was pretty solid, and I definitely enjoyed it. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this mafia romance.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2VxT3ws
Blurb:
Loving him could kill us both…
I thought the days of fathers selling their daughters were over.
Apparently, I thought wrong.
Because, in a few short months
I’m supposed to marry Johnny Maldonado.
His record is squeaky clean,
but anyone who’s been to Boston knows who he really is
and what he controls.
There’s only one problem:
I’m not interested in Johnny.
I’m interested in the man charged with his protection.
Maxon Holt. His Bodyguard.
When I ran away, he was the one to find me.
He’s not friendly and we don’t get along.
But, I find myself drawn to him.
Max is cold, dark, and distant.
And he’s harboring a secret.
One that could get us both killed.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2VxT3ws
About the Author:
Writer of all things untamed, romantic and free, Ivy Wild never planned on becoming a romance novelist. In fact, she hated romance as a kid and was quite proud of that fact. Basically, life is weird.
Married to her own alpha hero, she currently lives in various places of the world at various times thanks to his military career.
Her current side hustle is being a lawyer.
Connect with Ivy:
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Website: https://ivywildromance.com
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