“Why is it we always crave something when we know it’s forbidden?”
“Did. Someone. Hurt. You?”
“If you’re a good girl and take your punishment, I’ll make sure you’re rewarded.”
“You might be the villain in everyone else’s story, but that makes you my hero.”

Dark mafia romance with tropes like brother’s best friend, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, slow burn and rival families.

Both Marcus and Chloe were intriguing characters, and I loved their banter and chemistry. It was nice to see their relationship development throughout the story, and also to see them both grow as characters individually. Chloe was a strong and fierce character with a traumatic, difficult past. I loved seeing how she was able to overcome and heal on her own, but also with Marcus’s help.

The side characters were also interesting, and I can’t wait to read more about Jake and Miles. I would love to learn more about Jake’s story and recovery.

The dual-POV storytelling worked well for the plot, and I was equally invested in both of the main characters’ POVs.

The writing style was immersive and made me feel like I was in the middle of the action. The plot kept me hooked, and it was hard to put the book down.

This was my first book by the author, but it won’t be the last. I can’t wait to read the next book in the Rivals of Blackthorn series.



I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.