25 Best Mafia Romance Books You Should Read

25 Best Mafia Romance Books You Should Read

The ascendancy of mafia romance literature is a phenomenon that has garnered much attention in recent years. This genre is characterized by portraying the dangerous and alluring underworld of organized crime, often set against a backdrop of romance and passion.

One possible explanation for the popularity of these books is the allure of forbidden love and the taboo nature of romantic relationships between criminals and their counterparts. The narrative often revolves around a strong, independent female protagonist who finds herself drawn to a robust and dominant male figure from the criminal underworld. The tension and conflict between these two opposing worlds create a compelling story that captivates readers.

Another contributing factor to the rise of mafia romance books is the appeal of the anti-hero archetype. These characters are often portrayed as complex individuals with a troubled past and a morally ambiguous present. Despite their criminal activities, they possess a certain charm and charisma that draws the reader in, creating a sense of intrigue and fascination.

Furthermore, the rise of technology and social media has allowed easier access to these types of books, contributing to their increasing popularity. With the ease of online shopping and the ability to share book recommendations with a global audience, readers are exposed to more literature than ever.

1. Sempre – J. M. Darhower

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Famous mafia romance book “Sempre” was authored by J.M. Darhower. The book, which was released in 2013, tells the tale of Haven Antonelli, a young woman who had been a slave to a mafia family in the US for the most of her life.

After seeing the mafia boss execute a murder, Haven is taken in by Carmine DeMarco, the boss’s son, who protects her and saves her life. Carmine is the cold, calculating heir to the DeMarco family business. He is attracted to Haven, though, and sees her as more than just a duty.

With the mafia’s many secrets, deceit, and betrayals, Haven and Carmine must negotiate this perilous environment as their romance grows. As they fight to get past the challenges in their way, their love is continuously put to the test.

2. Bound by Honor – Cora Reilly

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Cora Reilly is the author of the well-known mafia romance book “Bound by Honor.” Luca Vitiello, the heir to another significant mafia family, is betrothed to marry Aria Scuderi, the daughter of a mafia leader, in the 2014 publication of the book.

Aria had always known that her life will be governed by her father’s choices, but she never envisioned having to get married to a man she barely knew. Although Aria gets to know Luca, she begins to notice a different side of him. Luca is notorious for his violent reputation and his lack of emotion.

As Aria and Luca’s romance grows, they must negotiate the perilous mafia, with all its lies, scheming, and betrayals. As they fight to get past the challenges in their way, their love is continuously put to the test.

3. Monster in His Eyes – J.M. Darhower

Famous mafia romance book “Monster in His Eyes” by J.M. Darhower. The 2014 publication of the book chronicled the relationship between college student Karissa Reed and Ignazio Vitale, a shadowy and perilous figure.

Ignazio’s piercing look and dark manner immediately captivate Karissa, but she soon learns that he is connected to the mafia and is not who he seems to be. Ignazio has a reputation for being ruthless and adept at achieving his goals, but as he comes to know Karissa, he begins to see her as more than simply a target.

As Karissa and Ignazio’s romance grows, they have to navigate the perilous mafia world with all of its lies, murder, and betrayals. As they fight to get past the challenges in their way, their love is continuously put to the test.

Read On 25 Must-Read Mafia Romance Books

4. Crow – A. Zavarelli

Famous mafia romance book “Crow” was authored by A. Zavarelli. The book, which was released in 2016, recounts the tale of Mackenzie Wilder, a young woman who was abducted by Lachlan Crow, a legendary mafia enforcer.

When Mackenzie is made to work as a hacker for Crow, she quickly learns that he is not the cold-blooded killer he first appears to be. Crow has a reputation for being cold-blooded and emotionless, but as Mackenzie gets to know him, she discovers a different side to him.

5. Salvatore – Natasha Knight

The well-known mafia romance book “Salvatore” was authored by Natasha Knight. The novel, which was released in 2018, recounts the tale of Lucia, a young woman who was coerced into an arranged marriage with Salvatore, a prominent mafia boss.

Lucia first opposes Salvatore’s proposal of marriage, but she eventually comes to the conclusion that he is not the cold-blooded killer she had assumed. Salvatore has a reputation for being ruthless and adept at achieving his goals, but as he comes to know Lucia, he begins to view her as more than simply a pawn in his scheme.

6. Ruthless People – J.J. McAvoy

Famous mafia romance book “Ruthless People” by J.J. McAvoy. The novel, which was released in 2014, detailed the tale of Melody Giovanni, a mafia boss’s daughter who was compelled to wed Liam Callahan, the heir of a rival mafia family.

Melody first objects to the thought of getting married to Liam, but she eventually comes to the conclusion that he is not the cold-blooded killer she had assumed. Although Liam has a reputation for being cold-blooded and emotionless, as he gets to know Melody, he begins to see her as more than simply a pawn in his scheme.

Read On 25 Best Mafia Romance Books You Should Read 

7. Enrage – Rachel Van Dyken

The well-known mafia romance book “Enrage” was written by Rachel Van Dyken. The book, which was released in 2017, detailed the tale of Anthony Accardi, a strong mafia boss who seeks retribution from the De Langes for killing his brother.

Anthony kidnaps and holds captive Angelina, the De Lange family’s daughter, as part of his plan for retaliation. Angelina is first afraid of Anthony, but she soon comes to the conclusion that he is not the cold-blooded monster she had assumed. Although Anthony has a reputation for being ruthless and adept at getting what he wants, as he gets to know Angelina, he begins to see her as more than simply a pawn in his scheme.

8. Elude – Rachel Van Dyken

Popular mafia romance book “Elude” by Rachel Van Dyken. A fresh threat forces Trace Kogan, a former mafia hitman, to confront his past in the book, which was published in 2015.

When Mimi, a woman who needs his assistance, approaches Trace, he is leading a calm life under witness protection. Mimi is being pursued by a rival family because she is the daughter of a powerful mafia lord. Although Trace is hesitant to become involved, he soon comes to the conclusion that he must acknowledge the threat Mimi is in.

9. Aria -Nazarea Andrews

The mafia romance book “Aria” was written by Nazarea Andrews. The novel was released in 2018 and featured the tale of Aria Scuderi, a mafia boss’s daughter who was compelled to wed Luca Vitiello, a mafia family’s son, as part of a business deal between their fathers.

Luca is not the cold-blooded monster Aria had previously thought him to be, and she soon comes to accept the idea of getting married to him. Luca has a reputation for being cold-blooded and emotionless, but as he comes to know Aria, he begins to view her as more than simply a pawn in his scheme.

10. Dark Protector – Celia Aaron

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Celia Aaron wrote the dark mafia romance book “Dark Protector”. The novel, which was released in 2017, recounts the tale of Charlotte, a young woman who was made to wed Vito, a powerful mafia boss.

Although Charlotte is hesitant to wed Vito, she soon comes to the conclusion that he is not the cold-blooded killer she had assumed. Vito has a reputation for being ruthless and adept at achieving his goals, but as he gets to know Charlotte, he begins to view her as more than simply a pawn in his scheme.

11. Twisted Loyalties – Cora Reilly

The mafia romance book “Twisted Loyalties” was written by Cora Reilly. The book, which was released in 2019, recounts the tale of Cinzia, a mafia boss’s daughter who is engaged to Adriano, the heir to a rival crime family.

Cinzia first objects to the thought of being married to Adriano, but she eventually comes to the conclusion that he is not the cold-blooded killer she had imagined. Although Adriano has a reputation for being ruthless and adept at getting what he wants, as he comes to know Cinzia, he begins to see her as more than simply a pawn in his scheme.

12. The Kiss Thief – L.J. Shen

L.J. Shen wrote the contemporary mafia romance book “The Kiss Thief”. The novel, which was released in 2019, recounts the tale of Francesca Rossi, a pampered and affluent young woman engaged to Angelo Bandini, the son of a powerful mafia lord.

Francesca initially opposes the notion of getting married to a man she hardly knows. She quickly learns, however, that Senator Wolfe Keaton, Angelo’s son, is not the cold-blooded monster she had pictured him to be. As he gets to know Francesca, Wolfe begins to see her as more than simply a pawn in his scheme. Wolfe is known for his ruthlessness and ability to obtain what he wants.

As Francesca and Wolfe’s relationship develops, they must navigate the dangerous world of politics and organized crime, with all its secrets, rivalries, and betrayals. Their love is tested repeatedly, as they struggle to overcome the obstacles in their path.

13. The Enforcer – Kele Moon

The mafia romance book “The Enforcer” was written by Kele Moon. The book was released in 2014 and chronicles the romance between Nikolai, a fearsome enforcer for the Russian mafia, and Chloe, a young woman he saves from peril.

Despite Nikolai’s reputation for brutality and his propensity for getting what he wants, he is captivated to Chloe’s purity and warmth. Chloe, on the other hand, is frightened of Nikolai and the perilous mafia world he represents.

14. Giovanni – Natasha Knight

The mafia romance book “Giovanni” was written by Natasha Knight. The book, which was released in 2018, is about a young woman named Haven who is kidnapped by Giovanni, the feared mafia family’s boss.

Giovanni kidnaps Haven as retaliation against Haven’s father, who is also implicated in the mafia. Haven must face her feelings for Giovanni while she is being held captive, despite his brutal and violent behavior.

15. The Gun Runner – Scott Hildreth

Scott Hildreth wrote the mafia romance book “The Gun Runner”. The book, which was released in 2016, follows the tale of an outlaw motorcyclist named Vincent who is hired to deliver weapons by the head of a mafia family.

Although Vincent is initially hesitant to join the mafia, the position’s power and wealth entice him. Vincent encounters Aspen, a young woman who is the daughter of one of his mafia friends, as he gets deeper into the mob.

Read On 25 Best Mafia Romance Books You Should Read

16. By Any Means – Chris Bartholomew

Chris Bartholomew wrote the mafia romance book “By Any Means”. The book, which was released in 2018, is about a young woman named Isabella who becomes embroiled in a violent game of retribution after a rival mafia family murders her father.

Isabella is resolved to exact revenge on the people who killed her father, and she seeks Dominic’s assistance, the feared enforcer of her family. Dominic is renowned for his violence and his capacity to achieve his goals, yet he is captivated to Isabella’s tenacity and bravery.

17. Dirty Filthy Rich Men – Laurelin Paige

The current romance book “Dirty Filthy Rich Men” was written by Laurelin Paige. The first book in the “Dirty Duet” series, it was released in 2017.

The protagonist of the novel is Sabrina, a young lady who has always been dedicated and laser-focused on achieving her academic and professional objectives. Donovan and Weston, who are both successful and wealthy but have quite different personalities, are the two men to whom she finds herself attracted.

While Weston is endearing and amusing, Donovan is intense and controlling. Sabrina must manage the complexities of their relationships and the secrets they keep concealed as she develops feelings for both men.

18. Darker Than Love – Anna Zaires and Charmaine Pauls

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The mafia romance book “Darker Than Love” is written by Anna Zaires and Charmaine Pauls. The novel, which was released in 2020, is about a young woman named Talia who is kidnapped by brutal mafia lord Arkady.

Arkady is hurt in a fight with a rival mafia family, and Talia, a nurse, is compelled to take care of him. Talia continues to care for Arkady’s wounds as she finds there is more to him than his ruthless reputation says as she starts to look past his icy demeanor.

19. The Villain – L.J. Shen

L.J. Shen is the author of the modern romance book “The Villain”. A young woman named Cillian falls for her childhood antagonist and enemy, Hunter Fitzpatrick, in the book, which was released in 2020.

Although Hunter and his buddies have always harassed Cillian, a gifted artist, Cillian finds herself captivated to Hunter’s moody and enigmatic demeanor when they re-connect as adults. Hunter, on the other hand, is desperate to prove himself to Cillian and atone for his previous actions.

Hunter and Cillian must negotiate their past and their unspoken secrets as their friendship grows. The concepts of redemption, forgiveness, and second chances are explored throughout the book.

20. Merciless – Willow Winters

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The dark romance book “Merciless” was written by Willow Winters. The first volume in the “Merciless” series, the book was released in 2017.

The plot centers on the romance between Carter Cross and Aria Talvery, two people from very different backgrounds who are unintentionally drawn together. A vicious mafia lord named Carter becomes interested in Aria, a young woman who is fighting to survive after the passing of her father.

Aria must face her dark urges and Carter’s hidden truths as she grows increasingly engaged with him and his perilous world. As Aria and Carter’s relationship develops into something more passionate and intense, the book tackles themes of power, control, and surrender.

21. Destructive – Jay McLean

The contemporary romance book “Destructive” was written by Jay McLean. The third book in the “Combative” series, it was released in 2017.

The plot centers on the romance between Jaxson Reid and K.C. Carter, two people with troubled pasts who turn to one another for comfort. K.C. is a strong, independent lady attempting to move on from a difficult past, while Jaxson is a former MMA fighter with a reputation for being destructive and unpredictable.

Positive reviews have been given to “Destructive” for its compelling story, well-written characters, and nuanced emotions. The novel has received appreciation for its realistic depiction of the difficulties experienced by people with complicated pasts and for the way the characters develop and change throughout the narrative.

It can be read independently of other books. However, readers might find it helpful to start with “Combative” and “Redemptive,” the first two volumes in the series written by Jay McLean. The third installment in the “Combative” series, the book was released in 2017.

22. Born to Blood – CC Wood

CC Wood is the author of the supernatural romance book “Born to Blood”. The first book in the “Blood Reapers” series, it was released in 2020.

The plot centers on Emilia Deveraux, an accomplished assassin, and Nikolai Volkov, a strong vampire who governs over his own domain. When Emilia learns that Nikolai is not who he seems to be, she is drawn into a perilous game of power and betrayal and is recruited to kill him.

As Emilia and Nikolai’s friendship grows, they must negotiate the perilous magical realm and the dangers that lurk all around them. As the two characters are forced to face their own pasts and the results of their choices, the book tackles themes of loyalty, trust, and atonement.

Positive reviews have been given to “Born to Blood” for its sophisticated plot, well-written characters, and hot romance. The novel has received appreciation for both its original perspective on the vampire subgenre and the nuanced character dynamics. The first book in a series, “Blood and Blades” and “Blood and Betrayal” are among the many sequels.

23. Taken – Natasha Knight

The dark romance book “Taken” was written by Natasha Knight. The first book in the “Dark Legacy” series, the book was released in 2018.

The plot centers on the friendship between the title heroine Mia and the mysterious and perilous Lucas Carter. Lucas kidnaps Mia and says he would do whatever it takes to keep her by his side since he owns her. Even though she finds it difficult to comprehend Lucas’ motives and objectives, Mia starts to feel affection for her captor as she makes her way through the murky world of his criminal enterprise.

Mia and Lucas are forced to face their own pasts and the forces that want to break them apart as the plot develops. As the two protagonists negotiate their complicated connection, the book tackles themes of power, control, and desire.

24. Blood to Dust – L.J. Shen

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L.J. Shen is the author of the dark romance book “Blood to Dust”. The narrative of the novel, which was released in 2016, centers on a woman named Aisling who is attempting to move on from her past and a man named Lachlan who is the head of a motorcycle gang.

Aisling hides out with Lachlan’s motorcycle club while evading her violent ex-boyfriend. Aisling tries to keep her distance from Lachlan, but they are drawn to one another and their relationship becomes turbulent. Aisling must choose if she can trust Lachlan enough to ask him for aid after her history catches up with her.

The book addresses themes of loyalty, redemption, and trust as both Aisling and Lachlan are forced to face the results of their past choices. The narrative also explores the world of motorcycle clubs and the risky and frequently violent lifestyle they promote.

25. Mafia King – Rachel Van Dyken

The mafia romance book “Mafia King” was written by Rachel Van Dyken. The first novel in the “Royal Mafia” series, it was released in 2020.

The plot centers on Aria Alard, the main character, and Dante Cavallaro, a strong and perilous character. Dante is the leader of his own mafia family, and Aria is the offspring of a powerful mafia boss. Despite the long-standing animosity between the two families, Aria and Dante can’t seem to stay apart. They must negotiate their forbidden relationship while also dealing with the difficulties and risks of the criminal society.

As the plot develops, Aria and Dante’s love grows more convoluted and intense, and they are forced to face their own pasts as well as the factors that could potentially separate them. The protagonists in the story negotiate their intricate relationships and the world of organized crime as the book tackles themes of power, loyalty, and sacrifice.

Finally, the emergence of mafia romance novels can be traced to a number of elements, including the appeal of forbidden love, the anti-hero stereotype, and the increased accessibility of these books due to technological advancements. These stories have captivated readers all across the world and continue to increase in popularity.