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Mafia Bound #2
Beautifully Savage Butterfly
Being savage in the ring is one thing. The way Elio Moretti craves my violence outside the ring is another.
I feel like I’ve been fighting my whole life, and tapping out has never been an option.
I can live with owing money to the Morettis. I can even live with the constant guilt that my brother is the one paralyzed in a hospital bed while I live his dream. What I can’t live with is Elio Moretti, second in command to the infamous crime family, showing up to all my fights, sitting in the front row, watching me like he can’t look away, and barging into the locker room to patch up my wounds and invade my space.
The Morettis are monsters. Vicious, brutal sociopaths. So, why is Elio so eager to get on his knees for me?
He’s as desperate to give up control as I am to take it, but is giving in to these primal urges enough of a reason to sell my soul?
He claims there are worse people in this city than his family, and the deeper I get dragged into his world, the more true that’s starting to seem. Can I really fall in love with a Mafia underboss? Is it even possible to walk away?
I feel like I’ve been fighting my whole life, and tapping out has never been an option.
I can live with owing money to the Morettis. I can even live with the constant guilt that my brother is the one paralyzed in a hospital bed while I live his dream. What I can’t live with is Elio Moretti, second in command to the infamous crime family, showing up to all my fights, sitting in the front row, watching me like he can’t look away, and barging into the locker room to patch up my wounds and invade my space.
The Morettis are monsters. Vicious, brutal sociopaths. So, why is Elio so eager to get on his knees for me?
He’s as desperate to give up control as I am to take it, but is giving in to these primal urges enough of a reason to sell my soul?
He claims there are worse people in this city than his family, and the deeper I get dragged into his world, the more true that’s starting to seem. Can I really fall in love with a Mafia underboss? Is it even possible to walk away?
381 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 6, 2024
332 people are currently reading
772 people want to read
About the author
K.M. Neuhold
100 books3,317 followersK.M.Neuhold has long since been a romance junkie. When she’s not writing she’s reading or spending time snuggling with her husky or her husband. She fell in love with M/M romance last year and hasn’t been able to turn back. There’s nothing she loves more than love in all its forms.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
August 22, 2024
⭐️ 3 stars ⭐️
— 🎧ྀི 𝙲𝚞𝚛𝚛𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚕𝚢 𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚘 𝚅𝚒𝚌𝚒𝚘𝚞𝚜 𝚋𝚢 𝙱𝚘𝚑𝚗𝚎𝚜🎧ྀི —
I didn’t think anything could top the addicting dynamic between Xav and Sparrow…and I was right. Sorry, but Elio and Orion did not make my heart beat fast like they did.
The hate sex was hot of course, but their relationship didn’t go much deeper than that.
I didn’t feel that switch, the moment where the hate gets lost among the lust and the passion. It fizzled way too quickly.
[ But that shower sex scene?? 🔥🔥What are we calling ‘both MCs cumming hands-free just from dirty talk during anal but not moving/thrusting?’ ‘Cause wowza, I need more of that. ]
The plot was also a bit dull, nothing really happening outside of the smut.
Despite not entirely enjoying this one, I’m still intrigued by the series, and can’t wait to see big boss man Lorenzo get his HEA.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Violence & death
- Disabled family member
- Mafia boss vs MMA fighter
- Strict top/bottom
- Rimming
- Mild humiliation kink
- Face-fucking
- Primal play
- Mild pain play
- Spit as lube
- Biting
- Spanking
- Light bondage
- Coming untouched
- Fleshlight
- Public sex
« Orion took me apart, and I think he’s the only one who can put me back together. »
— 🎧ྀི 𝙲𝚞𝚛𝚛𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚕𝚢 𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚘 𝚅𝚒𝚌𝚒𝚘𝚞𝚜 𝚋𝚢 𝙱𝚘𝚑𝚗𝚎𝚜🎧ྀི —
// And I love the way you hate me
Why do I do this to myself?
It's bad for my health //
I didn’t think anything could top the addicting dynamic between Xav and Sparrow…and I was right. Sorry, but Elio and Orion did not make my heart beat fast like they did.
“Run, Brat.”
The hate sex was hot of course, but their relationship didn’t go much deeper than that.
I didn’t feel that switch, the moment where the hate gets lost among the lust and the passion. It fizzled way too quickly.
[ But that shower sex scene?? 🔥🔥What are we calling ‘both MCs cumming hands-free just from dirty talk during anal but not moving/thrusting?’ ‘Cause wowza, I need more of that. ]
The plot was also a bit dull, nothing really happening outside of the smut.
Despite not entirely enjoying this one, I’m still intrigued by the series, and can’t wait to see big boss man Lorenzo get his HEA.
“You’re mine, Elio Moretti,” he rasps, biting my lip hard enough to draw a hiss from me. “Yeah, Boss, I am.”
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Violence & death
- Disabled family member
- Mafia boss vs MMA fighter
- Strict top/bottom
- Rimming
- Mild humiliation kink
- Face-fucking
- Primal play
- Mild pain play
- Spit as lube
- Biting
- Spanking
- Light bondage
- Coming untouched
- Fleshlight
- Public sex
August 20, 2024
✨ARC REVIEW✨
3.75 rounded up
To continue with the mobsters who want to sub to 'civilians', we get Elio who is obsessed with MMA fighter Orion to the point where he just wears him down and winds him up to hate fuck. Or is it truly hate fucking...? Elio is such a brat and Orion has such a quick temper. Get ready for a huge amount of humiliation kink, some praise, even a bit of degradation, a few spankings and dubious use of shampoo as lube (please, for the love of Satan, do not do this at home). Orion believes Elio is just an entitled mafia brat, but he learns the truth of who his mobster is and he ends up falling hard. Elio is just there for Orion and his brother, who needs medical care. We get a bit more mafia shenanigans and a glimpse of a future pairing (Dante has me intrigued af). The smexy times were good and abundant 😏
Fun, light read, though it wasn't as fun as the previous, imo.
3.75 rounded up
To continue with the mobsters who want to sub to 'civilians', we get Elio who is obsessed with MMA fighter Orion to the point where he just wears him down and winds him up to hate fuck. Or is it truly hate fucking...? Elio is such a brat and Orion has such a quick temper. Get ready for a huge amount of humiliation kink, some praise, even a bit of degradation, a few spankings and dubious use of shampoo as lube (please, for the love of Satan, do not do this at home). Orion believes Elio is just an entitled mafia brat, but he learns the truth of who his mobster is and he ends up falling hard. Elio is just there for Orion and his brother, who needs medical care. We get a bit more mafia shenanigans and a glimpse of a future pairing (Dante has me intrigued af). The smexy times were good and abundant 😏
Fun, light read, though it wasn't as fun as the previous, imo.
June 2, 2025
Tropes: hurt/comfort, mafia, found family
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: BDSM, primal play, restraints, spanking, sex and risky places, humiliation
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: violence, murder, homophobic parents kicking 13-year-old MMC out, poverty, sex trafficking of minor characters, quadriplegic minor character
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: neither of them are interested in anyone else after they start hooking up
3.75 stars
Orion has had it rough. His homophobic parents kicked him out at age 13 for being gay. Survival was a huge struggle for him. He's a professional fighter and he also does underground fighting to make extra money. He's undefeated. He's trying so hard to make money because his older brother was also a fighter, until a bad fight made him a quadriplegic. Orion is struggling hard to pay the medical bills.
Elio is second in command in the Moretti Mafia family. He's not made to be a leader, that's not what he wants out of life. He's had a crush on Orion for a year. But he can't get a read on whether overtures would be welcome. One night after a fight, Elio's attraction becomes obvious and Orion is into it too. Turns out their Kinks are extremely compatible. Elio wants someone to hate f*** and dominate him, but everyone else is afraid of him, Orion is not. And Orion loves to Dom. They quickly get in deep with each other. They are possessive of each other from the start. And once Elio realizes what Orion is struggling with, he wants to do everything in his power to make Orion's life a little easier. They've got some Mafia s*** to do, and Orion can help as they try to take down a sex trafficking pedophile ring.
This was a nice read. There was a enjoyable dynamic between Elio and Orion. I like the tension. I like the world the author has created and the network of characters and relationships. I like the banter and humour. I read book three first and liked it so much I'm reading the entire series. So it's a compelling series. This book is probably my least favorite of the three that I've read, it just seemed a little convenient/easy/fast for the guys to get together and solve each other's problems. I would have liked to see more of them loving each other for who they are. I felt like they fell a little fast and easy. Still 3.75 Stars though! Still a good read!
Some notable moments:
"The soft, textured silicone stretches around my cock as I shove myself inside of it with a moan. The throaty sound Elio makes is half lust, half outrage, like he can’t believe I’m fucking a toy when his ass is on offer. Honestly, that makes two of us."
Poor Sid, lol. "“Let me know if you need anything else,” he says. “And… just, no trouble tonight, huh?” I cringe. I’d love to give him that promise, but trouble is exactly why I’m here tonight. “How about if I promise to keep the trouble to a bare minimum?” I barter. Sid sighs and walks away. “I think you broke that poor man’s spirit,” Orion says with amusement heavy in his voice."
"“I definitely don’t have the flair for it the way Sparrow does.” “Those two are freaks though,” Elio argues. Lorenzo’s lips twitch with an almost-smile. “I believe Alessio would call them ‘couple goals.’” “They’re not going to fuck in that guy’s blood or anything, are they?” I lower my voice, almost afraid to ask. Elio chuckles. “Honestly, with those two, who the fuck knows.” “It’s something I prefer not to ask about,” Lorenzo agrees."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 2/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: BDSM, primal play, restraints, spanking, sex and risky places, humiliation
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: violence, murder, homophobic parents kicking 13-year-old MMC out, poverty, sex trafficking of minor characters, quadriplegic minor character
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: neither of them are interested in anyone else after they start hooking up
3.75 stars
Orion has had it rough. His homophobic parents kicked him out at age 13 for being gay. Survival was a huge struggle for him. He's a professional fighter and he also does underground fighting to make extra money. He's undefeated. He's trying so hard to make money because his older brother was also a fighter, until a bad fight made him a quadriplegic. Orion is struggling hard to pay the medical bills.
Elio is second in command in the Moretti Mafia family. He's not made to be a leader, that's not what he wants out of life. He's had a crush on Orion for a year. But he can't get a read on whether overtures would be welcome. One night after a fight, Elio's attraction becomes obvious and Orion is into it too. Turns out their Kinks are extremely compatible. Elio wants someone to hate f*** and dominate him, but everyone else is afraid of him, Orion is not. And Orion loves to Dom. They quickly get in deep with each other. They are possessive of each other from the start. And once Elio realizes what Orion is struggling with, he wants to do everything in his power to make Orion's life a little easier. They've got some Mafia s*** to do, and Orion can help as they try to take down a sex trafficking pedophile ring.
This was a nice read. There was a enjoyable dynamic between Elio and Orion. I like the tension. I like the world the author has created and the network of characters and relationships. I like the banter and humour. I read book three first and liked it so much I'm reading the entire series. So it's a compelling series. This book is probably my least favorite of the three that I've read, it just seemed a little convenient/easy/fast for the guys to get together and solve each other's problems. I would have liked to see more of them loving each other for who they are. I felt like they fell a little fast and easy. Still 3.75 Stars though! Still a good read!
Some notable moments:
"The soft, textured silicone stretches around my cock as I shove myself inside of it with a moan. The throaty sound Elio makes is half lust, half outrage, like he can’t believe I’m fucking a toy when his ass is on offer. Honestly, that makes two of us."
Poor Sid, lol. "“Let me know if you need anything else,” he says. “And… just, no trouble tonight, huh?” I cringe. I’d love to give him that promise, but trouble is exactly why I’m here tonight. “How about if I promise to keep the trouble to a bare minimum?” I barter. Sid sighs and walks away. “I think you broke that poor man’s spirit,” Orion says with amusement heavy in his voice."
"“I definitely don’t have the flair for it the way Sparrow does.” “Those two are freaks though,” Elio argues. Lorenzo’s lips twitch with an almost-smile. “I believe Alessio would call them ‘couple goals.’” “They’re not going to fuck in that guy’s blood or anything, are they?” I lower my voice, almost afraid to ask. Elio chuckles. “Honestly, with those two, who the fuck knows.” “It’s something I prefer not to ask about,” Lorenzo agrees."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2024
Considering this is a mafia romance book, I smiled so much at Elio and Orion's story!
I already knew from the first book that I was going to love Elio, and I wasn't disappointed. I love how he sets his mind to what he wants and gets it. Orion amused me with how he kept grumbling about Elio to begin, but when he tells Elio to stop stealing his thunder...😂😂😂
I'm not overly fussed by sex scenes because I'm Ace, but I did enjoy the D/s dynamic between these two and the way Orion knew what buttons to press to meet Elio's humiliation kink. Their softer moments were really cute too.
The Family were also less present in this book, compared to book one, and I much preferred that because the focus was really on the MCs and who they are, rather than a lot of meetings and strategy planning - it's still a part of the story but it's more in the background, although I would have liked to have seen more from Enzo regarding his reaction to the relationship. I also loved Nonna and I want to go for Sunday lunch so bad because I hate cooking them myself! I get way too stressed when everything is ready at the same time 😂
Looking forward to the next book - I'm really hoping for Enzo and some enemies to lovers...
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
I already knew from the first book that I was going to love Elio, and I wasn't disappointed. I love how he sets his mind to what he wants and gets it. Orion amused me with how he kept grumbling about Elio to begin, but when he tells Elio to stop stealing his thunder...😂😂😂
I'm not overly fussed by sex scenes because I'm Ace, but I did enjoy the D/s dynamic between these two and the way Orion knew what buttons to press to meet Elio's humiliation kink. Their softer moments were really cute too.
The Family were also less present in this book, compared to book one, and I much preferred that because the focus was really on the MCs and who they are, rather than a lot of meetings and strategy planning - it's still a part of the story but it's more in the background, although I would have liked to have seen more from Enzo regarding his reaction to the relationship. I also loved Nonna and I want to go for Sunday lunch so bad because I hate cooking them myself! I get way too stressed when everything is ready at the same time 😂
Looking forward to the next book - I'm really hoping for Enzo and some enemies to lovers...
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
September 11, 2024
Very good. Very different. But sometimes I really like stereotypes. Sometimes I just want the big scary dude to be the top. Props to this author for taking a different route and making the scary mafia men be bottoms, but sometimes my brain just wants that stereotype. Still loved it though. 5 gold stars.
August 21, 2024
This book hit the mark in a way that I expected the first one too. I knew Elio would have a banger of a story because of what we say in the first book but I think he really had the best story.
Elio is the underboss for the Moretti Family mafia. He’s usually on some kind of bender or violating someone’s boundaries.
Orion is a rock. He has the emotional capacity of a rock. He eats, sleeps, and breaths making money so that he can care for his brother.
Elio becomes obsessed with O and what Elio wants, he gets…plus some.
This book is one of those that stretch the bounds of reality and plausible scenarios but it’s so fun. I with Orion had a bit more depth but I really think him and E are perfect for each other.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review!
Elio is the underboss for the Moretti Family mafia. He’s usually on some kind of bender or violating someone’s boundaries.
Orion is a rock. He has the emotional capacity of a rock. He eats, sleeps, and breaths making money so that he can care for his brother.
Elio becomes obsessed with O and what Elio wants, he gets…plus some.
This book is one of those that stretch the bounds of reality and plausible scenarios but it’s so fun. I with Orion had a bit more depth but I really think him and E are perfect for each other.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review!
August 20, 2024
okayyyyy
i don’t know what miss km neuhold is going through but i’m damn glad because this switch is exactly what we needed.
it is kind of bittersweet for me, because while i love the setting and the characters, their dynamics are not my favorites. but i can happily wait for my dreams to come true. i’m not impatient. at all.
anyways, i don’t know if she’s just using google translate and getting lucky, the italian is on point. yes, i know they’re just simple words, but still. they make sense and that makes me want to weep. they usually butcher my language.
if anyone is still reading after all this shit and wants to know something about the actual book, you’re in the wrong place.
i’m joking. mostly.
even though it’s not my preferred dynamic the d/s part was so good. also, it has the right amount of obsession. (if you’re wondering, the right amount is a whole fucking lot).
and what’s more important, i still enjoyed it.
i am very excited for what’s to come!!!
i read an arc and this is my honest opinion
i don’t know what miss km neuhold is going through but i’m damn glad because this switch is exactly what we needed.
it is kind of bittersweet for me, because while i love the setting and the characters, their dynamics are not my favorites. but i can happily wait for my dreams to come true. i’m not impatient. at all.
anyways, i don’t know if she’s just using google translate and getting lucky, the italian is on point. yes, i know they’re just simple words, but still. they make sense and that makes me want to weep. they usually butcher my language.
if anyone is still reading after all this shit and wants to know something about the actual book, you’re in the wrong place.
i’m joking. mostly.
even though it’s not my preferred dynamic the d/s part was so good. also, it has the right amount of obsession. (if you’re wondering, the right amount is a whole fucking lot).
and what’s more important, i still enjoyed it.
i am very excited for what’s to come!!!
i read an arc and this is my honest opinion
September 19, 2024
In general I'm not really crazy about mafia books but I do read them for the dynamic between the main characters. I'm always interested to know what's in their heads, what makes them tick and eventually what makes them fall. The Dynamics here are self-evident very clear and very driven on both sides.
Big bad mafia man Elio is kinky AF, degradation level 10. Not my best feels for it, not my thing.😐
Orion never had a chance😁
This was cute in a bloody, painful, bruisey let me pull your hair instead of hug you sort of way. But I loved the 'I'd kill everyone for you' vibes✌️
Duuude!!! Eewwwww😖 bare on filthy concrete.Yucky!
Big bad mafia man Elio is kinky AF, degradation level 10. Not my best feels for it, not my thing.😐
Orion never had a chance😁
This was cute in a bloody, painful, bruisey let me pull your hair instead of hug you sort of way. But I loved the 'I'd kill everyone for you' vibes✌️
Duuude!!! Eewwwww😖 bare on filthy concrete.Yucky!
August 18, 2024
I’m loving this series so far in all its OTT glory!
I couldn’t wait for Elio’s book and it did not disappoint! He’s already obsessed with his MMA fighter when the book starts. Orion on the other hand, hates the underboss of the Morettis.
After pretty much stalking Orion and through sheer persistency, Elio gets what he wants. He is a spoiled mafia brat after all…
The dynamics in this book are chef’s kiss! I love that the powerful mafia men are the submissive ones. It makes it different and hot👌🏻
I’m enjoying how low angst this series is. It’s just unhinged characters falling in love, with plenty of banter and a weird murderous found family! Absolutely can’t wait for Dante’s story😏
I couldn’t wait for Elio’s book and it did not disappoint! He’s already obsessed with his MMA fighter when the book starts. Orion on the other hand, hates the underboss of the Morettis.
After pretty much stalking Orion and through sheer persistency, Elio gets what he wants. He is a spoiled mafia brat after all…
The dynamics in this book are chef’s kiss! I love that the powerful mafia men are the submissive ones. It makes it different and hot👌🏻
I’m enjoying how low angst this series is. It’s just unhinged characters falling in love, with plenty of banter and a weird murderous found family! Absolutely can’t wait for Dante’s story😏
September 11, 2024
Beautifully Savage Butterfly by K.M. Neuhold
❤️ Mafia Underboss x MMA Fighter
❤️ Obsessive & Possessive MCs
❤️ Opposites Attract
❤️ "Yes, Boss" x "Brat"
❤️ Rich MC x Poor MC
🔥 Impact Play (Spankings), Mild Pain Play, Mild Humiliation Kink, Light Primal Play, Light Bondage, Rough Sex, Dom/Sub vibes
After reading book 1 in this series last month I was really excited for book 2 and it definitely didn't disappoint!
Elio is a man who knows what he wants. As a Mafia Underboss he's feared by many and used to getting his own way, except when it comes to the object of his desires, Orion Barros.
Orion is struggling through life, using his time fighting in the ring as an outlet for his rage. He sees Elio as a spoiled mafia prince begging to be put in his place and unwittingly ends up being the man to do so.
Elio and Orion together were absolute fire. Their chemistry was fantastic and I loved the Brat/Boss dynamic they had going on. Though Elio could be savage and deadly he was also a real softie too, just begging for someone to see through his hardened exterior to the vulnerability underneath. Orion was the perfect match for him. He was dominating and rough, taking control and giving Elio the discipline he craved, whilst also being soothing and sweet in his own twisted way.
I really enjoyed the push and pull between these characters and how obsessive and possessive they were of each other. Though this is a darker book, it was relatively low angst and had plenty of funny moments throughout the story which lightened the tone. I also liked that we got to see Sparrow and Xaviaro again, as well as the other Moretti's and a certain feisty dancer who I hope we'll be seeing as an MC in a future story.
Though I personally enjoyed book 1 the most, I would still recommend this story to anyone who enjoys Neuhold's writing style and Mafia/MMA themed books!
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Humour: 🤭🤭🤭
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺
First person dual pov 👀
CW (from author): Mild Humiliation kink, Mild Primal Play, Mild Pain Play, Bad Guys getting what's coming to them, Casual violence related to MMA, Spanking, Light bondage.
CW: violence, blood, injury, murder, illegal fighting matches, vague mention of past attempted SA, child trafficking and prostitution, mention of homophobic parents and parental abandonment, side character with quadriplegia (mentions of how they were injured etc) & hospitalisation of a side character.
❤️ Mafia Underboss x MMA Fighter
❤️ Obsessive & Possessive MCs
❤️ Opposites Attract
❤️ "Yes, Boss" x "Brat"
❤️ Rich MC x Poor MC
🔥 Impact Play (Spankings), Mild Pain Play, Mild Humiliation Kink, Light Primal Play, Light Bondage, Rough Sex, Dom/Sub vibes
After reading book 1 in this series last month I was really excited for book 2 and it definitely didn't disappoint!
Elio is a man who knows what he wants. As a Mafia Underboss he's feared by many and used to getting his own way, except when it comes to the object of his desires, Orion Barros.
Orion is struggling through life, using his time fighting in the ring as an outlet for his rage. He sees Elio as a spoiled mafia prince begging to be put in his place and unwittingly ends up being the man to do so.
Elio and Orion together were absolute fire. Their chemistry was fantastic and I loved the Brat/Boss dynamic they had going on. Though Elio could be savage and deadly he was also a real softie too, just begging for someone to see through his hardened exterior to the vulnerability underneath. Orion was the perfect match for him. He was dominating and rough, taking control and giving Elio the discipline he craved, whilst also being soothing and sweet in his own twisted way.
I really enjoyed the push and pull between these characters and how obsessive and possessive they were of each other. Though this is a darker book, it was relatively low angst and had plenty of funny moments throughout the story which lightened the tone. I also liked that we got to see Sparrow and Xaviaro again, as well as the other Moretti's and a certain feisty dancer who I hope we'll be seeing as an MC in a future story.
Though I personally enjoyed book 1 the most, I would still recommend this story to anyone who enjoys Neuhold's writing style and Mafia/MMA themed books!
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Humour: 🤭🤭🤭
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺
First person dual pov 👀
CW (from author): Mild Humiliation kink, Mild Primal Play, Mild Pain Play, Bad Guys getting what's coming to them, Casual violence related to MMA, Spanking, Light bondage.
CW: violence, blood, injury, murder, illegal fighting matches, vague mention of past attempted SA, child trafficking and prostitution, mention of homophobic parents and parental abandonment, side character with quadriplegia (mentions of how they were injured etc) & hospitalisation of a side character.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2024
Maybe I’ll get him to order us some expensive takeout after we maim whichever criminal is on our list this afternoon. Is that romance? It kind of feels like it is.
Big bad mafia sub and his somewhat reluctant MMA dom 🥵 I loved this!!
Orion starts out with his own ideas of who/what Elio is and Elio is determined to prove him wrong and get what he wants - which is Orion owning him. Their volatile romance was fast paced and sexy. Both men are powerful and powerless in their own ways and it was fun watching them trade roles to balance each other out. 10/10, no complaints 🥰
I lean into him and smirk. “Is there anything I do that doesn’t get your dick hard?”
“Not a damn thing,” he purrs, pressing a kiss to the side of my throat.
Big bad mafia sub and his somewhat reluctant MMA dom 🥵 I loved this!!
Orion starts out with his own ideas of who/what Elio is and Elio is determined to prove him wrong and get what he wants - which is Orion owning him. Their volatile romance was fast paced and sexy. Both men are powerful and powerless in their own ways and it was fun watching them trade roles to balance each other out. 10/10, no complaints 🥰
I lean into him and smirk. “Is there anything I do that doesn’t get your dick hard?”
“Not a damn thing,” he purrs, pressing a kiss to the side of my throat.
August 20, 2024
One man forced to owe money to the mob and another apart of that world who wants Orion to own him.
Beautifully Savage Butterfly is a 23 chapter book about an unlikely but steamy romance happening between two men who don’t have the easiest everyday life. Things develop pretty fast between Orion and Elio all things considered and the angst levels are very low for what you’d think with a book like this. I definitely wouldn’t have minded a bit more between the two because it was pretty hard to really believe the romance that developed between them. I think if you’re looking for characters who are rougher around the edges but don’t want a whole bunch of angst — this would be a good fit!
Beautifully Savage Butterfly is a 23 chapter book about an unlikely but steamy romance happening between two men who don’t have the easiest everyday life. Things develop pretty fast between Orion and Elio all things considered and the angst levels are very low for what you’d think with a book like this. I definitely wouldn’t have minded a bit more between the two because it was pretty hard to really believe the romance that developed between them. I think if you’re looking for characters who are rougher around the edges but don’t want a whole bunch of angst — this would be a good fit!
October 1, 2024
4.75/5 ⭐
Beautifully Savage Butterfly is the second book in K.M. Neuhold's Mafia Bound series. Here's what you can expect from Elio and Orion:
🖤 MM mafia romance
🖤 First person dual point of view
🖤 Guaranteed happily ever after
🖤 Contempt to lovers
🖤 Primal play
🖤 MMA fighter and mafia underboss
🖤 Humiliation kink
As always, ensure you review the content and trigger warnings to decide if this book is right for you. Note that this list of warnings may be incomplete. Please take care of yourself while reading.
I'm so glad that K.M. Neuhold has decided to dip her toe into the world of mafia romance because I'm having so much fun with the Moretti Crime Family. Beautifully Savage Butterfly focuses on Elio, the underboss of the Moretti family. He craves something that he just can't seem to get in his usual relationships, and he's become fascinated with gritty MMA fighter Orion.
Similarly to Deadly Little Sparrow, this book is definitely darker in terms of Neuhold's work, but it it's not too dark - you'll recognize her trademark humour and antics throughout the story. The spice in this book was great, and I love the author's approach to kink in terms of our mafia boys here. I also enjoy the fact that there's an underlying story on top of the romance, because it makes for a well-rounded book. Although the Morrettis are in the mob, they're definitely one of the better ones I've read about. I also enjoy the role reversal from what you would expect in your typical mafia book. It's a study in control and keeping up appearances until it's the time to let go. Orion and Elio were just so freakin' cute together. I loved how sweet Elio was for Orion, and how desperate he was to relinquish that control and share a special side of himself only with Orion. Overall, this was another great read and I can't wait to see the rest of the Morrettis get their happily ever afters, although I'm sure there's going to be some mayhem in the process!
Beautifully Savage Butterfly is the second book in K.M. Neuhold's Mafia Bound series. Here's what you can expect from Elio and Orion:
🖤 MM mafia romance
🖤 First person dual point of view
🖤 Guaranteed happily ever after
🖤 Contempt to lovers
🖤 Primal play
🖤 MMA fighter and mafia underboss
🖤 Humiliation kink
As always, ensure you review the content and trigger warnings to decide if this book is right for you. Note that this list of warnings may be incomplete. Please take care of yourself while reading.
Elio fucking Moretti. I doubt he’s been told ‘no’ a single day of his life. Pompous prick that he is. Handed an empire of violence on a solid gold platter, and he expects us all to kneel like his loyal subjects. Fat fucking chance of that happening. I don’t kneel for anyone, least of all a goddamn spoiled Mafia prince.
I'm so glad that K.M. Neuhold has decided to dip her toe into the world of mafia romance because I'm having so much fun with the Moretti Crime Family. Beautifully Savage Butterfly focuses on Elio, the underboss of the Moretti family. He craves something that he just can't seem to get in his usual relationships, and he's become fascinated with gritty MMA fighter Orion.
Similarly to Deadly Little Sparrow, this book is definitely darker in terms of Neuhold's work, but it it's not too dark - you'll recognize her trademark humour and antics throughout the story. The spice in this book was great, and I love the author's approach to kink in terms of our mafia boys here. I also enjoy the fact that there's an underlying story on top of the romance, because it makes for a well-rounded book. Although the Morrettis are in the mob, they're definitely one of the better ones I've read about. I also enjoy the role reversal from what you would expect in your typical mafia book. It's a study in control and keeping up appearances until it's the time to let go. Orion and Elio were just so freakin' cute together. I loved how sweet Elio was for Orion, and how desperate he was to relinquish that control and share a special side of himself only with Orion. Overall, this was another great read and I can't wait to see the rest of the Morrettis get their happily ever afters, although I'm sure there's going to be some mayhem in the process!
Outside of these walls, in front of everyone else, I’ll carry the weight I have to, but in the quiet of our apartment, all I want is to be owned and used and hurt and fucking cherished by him.
September 9, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Beautifully Savage Butterfly is the second book in K.M. Neuhold’s Mafia Bound series, featuring a new couple in Orion and Elio. While we do meet Elio in Deadly Little Sparrow, and we get a hint of his obsession with Orion, plotwise I think this one stands alone fine and you could jump in here if you wanted. I will say if you enjoyed the first book, I think you will love this one as well, as it has many of the same hallmarks of a dark romance featuring an outsider to the organized crime world, as well as a kink dynamic where the mafia men play the more submissive role. I really enjoyed this one and once again totally loved the relationship dynamics between the main characters.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Beautifully Savage Butterfly is the second book in K.M. Neuhold’s Mafia Bound series, featuring a new couple in Orion and Elio. While we do meet Elio in Deadly Little Sparrow, and we get a hint of his obsession with Orion, plotwise I think this one stands alone fine and you could jump in here if you wanted. I will say if you enjoyed the first book, I think you will love this one as well, as it has many of the same hallmarks of a dark romance featuring an outsider to the organized crime world, as well as a kink dynamic where the mafia men play the more submissive role. I really enjoyed this one and once again totally loved the relationship dynamics between the main characters.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
October 4, 2025
Spoiled “brat” has a crush on an MMA fighter
MMA fighter hates spoiled “brat” because of his last name and the fact that he’s rich and has everyone kissing his feet
Spoiled “brat” loves that MMA fighter isn’t like everyone, he hates him and certainly doesn’t kiss his feet.
Anger “tension” sex sex sex
The pet names are brat and boss btw
Out of nowhere they say they love each other
Yeah, right. I don’t know if I’m supposed to believe that
This book had me until 40% in.
Elio is the only reason why I finished this. He was so funny and obsessed that Orion could be visibly angry with him and he’ll ask “is this foreplay or are you serious” 😭
This book doesn’t have enough 1 star ratings I’m sorry 😭 it’s so bad.
MMA fighter hates spoiled “brat” because of his last name and the fact that he’s rich and has everyone kissing his feet
Spoiled “brat” loves that MMA fighter isn’t like everyone, he hates him and certainly doesn’t kiss his feet.
Anger “tension” sex sex sex
The pet names are brat and boss btw
Out of nowhere they say they love each other
Yeah, right. I don’t know if I’m supposed to believe that
This book had me until 40% in.
Elio is the only reason why I finished this. He was so funny and obsessed that Orion could be visibly angry with him and he’ll ask “is this foreplay or are you serious” 😭
This book doesn’t have enough 1 star ratings I’m sorry 😭 it’s so bad.
September 9, 2024
4.5 ☆
We are back in Wildcliff for the next installment of this series. This time around we're following Elio and Orion's story. We've had little glimpses of this in book 1 when the guys went to MMA fights and Elio just wandered off into the locker room when the match was over. We sort of knew that Elio was obsessed with Orion right from the start, and I was really here for it.
Elio is the mafia underboss, who in public has to be in control and in charge, but in private he just wants to submit to someone who will treat him the way he's been imagining for years. Orion is an MMA fighter, who is doing anything he can think of to take care of his brother who is paralyzed and living in a care facility. Orion also took out a loan from the Morettis(Elio's family), which he doesn't tell his brother because he promised him to not get caught up with the mafia.
Elio is a brat and pushes Orion's buttons until he snaps, which was fun to watch. Elio slowly wears Orion down and I loved their tender and sweet moments. I loved how Elio could switch from big bad mafioso to total submission and tenderness. I also really enjoyed how Elio took charge of the situation when Orion's brother was having surgery in the hospital.
Next to all of the relationship building that's going on, we still have problems in town that Elio is dealing with. He gets Orion to help him, but he only does it for a paycheck. I loved how Elio wanted Orion to be a part of his world, but he wanted it to be Orion's decision to join.
They had their sweet and tender moments together, which I loved! There was a push and pull in the relationship that I really enjoyed and I also loved their dynamic a lot. The kink was done very nicely and I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed the obsessiveness and possessiveness we got to see in this book. I also loved how caring Elio was and how they both wanted to protect each other. It was fun to see Orion complaining about Elio stealing his thunder with relationship milestones.
It was nice to see all the side characters some more. Sparrow was as vicious as ever, and the others were funny, but we also got more glimpses of everyone's personalities.
It was an enjoyable book, but maybe not as unhinged as book 1, but also definitely worth a read! Funny, low-angst mafia goodness!
We are back in Wildcliff for the next installment of this series. This time around we're following Elio and Orion's story. We've had little glimpses of this in book 1 when the guys went to MMA fights and Elio just wandered off into the locker room when the match was over. We sort of knew that Elio was obsessed with Orion right from the start, and I was really here for it.
Elio is the mafia underboss, who in public has to be in control and in charge, but in private he just wants to submit to someone who will treat him the way he's been imagining for years. Orion is an MMA fighter, who is doing anything he can think of to take care of his brother who is paralyzed and living in a care facility. Orion also took out a loan from the Morettis(Elio's family), which he doesn't tell his brother because he promised him to not get caught up with the mafia.
Elio is a brat and pushes Orion's buttons until he snaps, which was fun to watch. Elio slowly wears Orion down and I loved their tender and sweet moments. I loved how Elio could switch from big bad mafioso to total submission and tenderness. I also really enjoyed how Elio took charge of the situation when Orion's brother was having surgery in the hospital.
Next to all of the relationship building that's going on, we still have problems in town that Elio is dealing with. He gets Orion to help him, but he only does it for a paycheck. I loved how Elio wanted Orion to be a part of his world, but he wanted it to be Orion's decision to join.
They had their sweet and tender moments together, which I loved! There was a push and pull in the relationship that I really enjoyed and I also loved their dynamic a lot. The kink was done very nicely and I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed the obsessiveness and possessiveness we got to see in this book. I also loved how caring Elio was and how they both wanted to protect each other. It was fun to see Orion complaining about Elio stealing his thunder with relationship milestones.
It was nice to see all the side characters some more. Sparrow was as vicious as ever, and the others were funny, but we also got more glimpses of everyone's personalities.
It was an enjoyable book, but maybe not as unhinged as book 1, but also definitely worth a read! Funny, low-angst mafia goodness!
September 8, 2024
I dig it.
An excellent addition to this series. While Elio and his brattiness was great, it was Orion and his Dommy side that tickled my fancy. The whole I hate you until I love vibe of this book was on point. Orion tried. He really, really did. But there was no way he was going to resist Elio.
I loved the way Orion saw right through Elio. He opened Elio up, broke him down and then built him back up. It was masterful. Elio had his brat on full display nearly every time we saw him. These two fit perfectly together.
While I am excited to see how Sal and Dante work their stuff out, I am really anticipating seeing Enzo fall. This series is a hit for me.
An excellent addition to this series. While Elio and his brattiness was great, it was Orion and his Dommy side that tickled my fancy. The whole I hate you until I love vibe of this book was on point. Orion tried. He really, really did. But there was no way he was going to resist Elio.
I loved the way Orion saw right through Elio. He opened Elio up, broke him down and then built him back up. It was masterful. Elio had his brat on full display nearly every time we saw him. These two fit perfectly together.
While I am excited to see how Sal and Dante work their stuff out, I am really anticipating seeing Enzo fall. This series is a hit for me.
January 10, 2026
I’m not sure if he thought I was joking, but I would fucking kill for him. I’d happily burn this entire city to ash without a second thought if he wanted or needed me to.
^ Page 213.
Admittedly I DNFd at 92% as I was skimming too much. However it's near to end so I'm counting it as read.
The plot was too repetitive. They're either talking, having sex, beating people up, or looking out for Orion's brother who's in 24/7 care. It was just over and over again, lost my interest somewhere.
I'll come back to this series but I'm ditching this for now.
^ Page 213.
Admittedly I DNFd at 92% as I was skimming too much. However it's near to end so I'm counting it as read.
The plot was too repetitive. They're either talking, having sex, beating people up, or looking out for Orion's brother who's in 24/7 care. It was just over and over again, lost my interest somewhere.
I'll come back to this series but I'm ditching this for now.
September 14, 2024
I thought the first book was good, amazing really, but she definitely one upped herself with this book! Like blown away with how amazing their story was. I’m officially in love with these men and their love story. I love a good mafia romance but this one takes the cake! Get me a sandwich and a smoke because I’m feel satisfied
August 28, 2024
Finally we get Elio and Orion book and let me say it wasn’t a let down! Their dynamic works for them and seeing the love they have for each other is heart worthy. Orion has a hard life especially in the family department but Elio comes in and saves him (much to Orion dismay). I can’t wait to see whose book is up next.
September 10, 2024
He is brutal in the ring and he sees them at every fight. There is a lot he does not mind but he is unsure why they want to be there. They want to help deal with his wounds and be on his knees in front of him. How will it all go? Will it all go well? See just how it goes for them both
July 31, 2025
3.5 stars
September 8, 2024
Float like a butterfly...
I absolutely LOVE this book! KM has really shown that she can write mafia/dark/bad guys and I am so here for it! I adore Orion and Elio so very much! I love a good bad guy and I can't wait to see who falls in love next!
I absolutely LOVE this book! KM has really shown that she can write mafia/dark/bad guys and I am so here for it! I adore Orion and Elio so very much! I love a good bad guy and I can't wait to see who falls in love next!
September 22, 2024
I'm really enjoying K.M. Neuhold's new direction for this new series. Orion and Elio have a messed up beginning to their relationship, well maybe the whole thing is messed up but I still enjoyed it and am glad they got their HEA in the end.
August 18, 2024
Another day, another lucky chance at another ARC. "Beautifully Savage Butterfly" is the second novel in K.M. Neuhold's Mafia Bound series.
["Being savage in the ring is one thing. The way Elio Moretti craves my violence outside the ring is another.
I feel like I’ve been fighting my whole life, and tapping out has never been an option.
I can live with owing money to the Morettis. I can even live with the constant guilt that my brother is the one paralyzed in a hospital bed while I live his dream. What I can’t live with is Elio Moretti, second in command to the infamous crime family, showing up to all my fights, sitting in the front row, watching me like he can’t look away, and barging into the locker room to patch up my wounds and invade my space.
The Morettis are monsters. Vicious, brutal sociopaths. So, why is Elio so eager to get on his knees for me?
He’s as desperate to give up control as I am to take it, but is giving in to these primal urges enough of a reason to sell my soul?
He claims there are worse people in this city than his family, and the deeper I get dragged into his world, the more true that’s starting to seem. Can I really fall in love with a Mafia underboss? Is it even possible to walk away?"]
THIS BOOK!!!! D:
They understood each other...after Orion let go of his hate.
Yes, Elio is spoiled, but being the second in command of a mafia isn't exactly easy (on the soul, on the heart, on the head). You see things, deal with things that other people can't even imagine, and then, when you want a moment of peace or vulnerability, you don't know who to trust. Orion eventually realized that, saw all the broken pieces that made Elio Elio and stuck around anyway.
Elio also eventually realized why Orion was being stubborn, pigheaded, and frankly, a little fucking holier than though (and exact quote from Elio--to which he paid for). He's also dealt with things that most people can't imagine, had to handle things that others couldn't handle, and done all of that virtually on his own for so long. Elio saw him, saw the savageness and anger; he helped Orion with his demons, helped Orion with his debts, and helped Orion relax a little.
I mean honestly, Orion did so much judging that he literally said, "Elio fucking Moretti is not a subby brat begging for a spanking, he's a goddamn killer." As if one cannot occur with the other. As if Elio is anything BUT a subby brat begging for a spanking. But don't worry, Orion figured out that their traumas (and kinks) matched pretty freaking well.
Quote of the Day (Elio about Orion): "Am I starting to wear him down a little? Not much, hopefully. I don't want him domesticated, I just want him tame enough to keep. Actually, I don't need that either. i want him to want me. Outside of that, he can stay as feral as he likes."
QotD 2 (Elio about Xav/Sparrow): "They gave me a fucked-up kind of hope that even the twisted souls can have mates. I both hate and love them for that."
Trigger Warnings: casual violence related to MMA, bad guys getting what's coming to them, human/sex trafficking (of minors), and more.
#gayromancereviews #grr #arcs #arcteammember
#deadlylitlesparrow #mafiabound #mafiaboundseries #kmneuhold #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Being savage in the ring is one thing. The way Elio Moretti craves my violence outside the ring is another.
I feel like I’ve been fighting my whole life, and tapping out has never been an option.
I can live with owing money to the Morettis. I can even live with the constant guilt that my brother is the one paralyzed in a hospital bed while I live his dream. What I can’t live with is Elio Moretti, second in command to the infamous crime family, showing up to all my fights, sitting in the front row, watching me like he can’t look away, and barging into the locker room to patch up my wounds and invade my space.
The Morettis are monsters. Vicious, brutal sociopaths. So, why is Elio so eager to get on his knees for me?
He’s as desperate to give up control as I am to take it, but is giving in to these primal urges enough of a reason to sell my soul?
He claims there are worse people in this city than his family, and the deeper I get dragged into his world, the more true that’s starting to seem. Can I really fall in love with a Mafia underboss? Is it even possible to walk away?"]
THIS BOOK!!!! D:
They understood each other...after Orion let go of his hate.
Yes, Elio is spoiled, but being the second in command of a mafia isn't exactly easy (on the soul, on the heart, on the head). You see things, deal with things that other people can't even imagine, and then, when you want a moment of peace or vulnerability, you don't know who to trust. Orion eventually realized that, saw all the broken pieces that made Elio Elio and stuck around anyway.
Elio also eventually realized why Orion was being stubborn, pigheaded, and frankly, a little fucking holier than though (and exact quote from Elio--to which he paid for). He's also dealt with things that most people can't imagine, had to handle things that others couldn't handle, and done all of that virtually on his own for so long. Elio saw him, saw the savageness and anger; he helped Orion with his demons, helped Orion with his debts, and helped Orion relax a little.
I mean honestly, Orion did so much judging that he literally said, "Elio fucking Moretti is not a subby brat begging for a spanking, he's a goddamn killer." As if one cannot occur with the other. As if Elio is anything BUT a subby brat begging for a spanking. But don't worry, Orion figured out that their traumas (and kinks) matched pretty freaking well.
Quote of the Day (Elio about Orion): "Am I starting to wear him down a little? Not much, hopefully. I don't want him domesticated, I just want him tame enough to keep. Actually, I don't need that either. i want him to want me. Outside of that, he can stay as feral as he likes."
QotD 2 (Elio about Xav/Sparrow): "They gave me a fucked-up kind of hope that even the twisted souls can have mates. I both hate and love them for that."
Trigger Warnings: casual violence related to MMA, bad guys getting what's coming to them, human/sex trafficking (of minors), and more.
#gayromancereviews #grr #arcs #arcteammember
#deadlylitlesparrow #mafiabound #mafiaboundseries #kmneuhold #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
April 1, 2025
It's no secret that I am a huge fan of K.M Neuhold but I have to say this is one of her best yet. The turn she has taken with writing stuff a little darker than her norm was definitely the right touch. The light funny stuff is still there but now it's mixed with this deliciously dark (ish) mafia twist. I absolutely loved Elio and Orion were so hot together. Elio is second in command of the Moretti crime family and Orion is an MMA fighter who is doing everything he can for his brother. Orion at first hates everything the Moretti's stand for until he starts seeing some of the behind the scenes. It took everything in me not to start this one over right as I finished it. I cannot wait to see what is in store next for the Moretti family.
January 19, 2025
These mmc’s did not give Mafia or dark vibes at all they were wayyy too nice I couldn’t understand why anyone would fear them tbh
Had to DNF at 26%.
Had to DNF at 26%.
September 7, 2024
Beautifully Savage Butterfly by K.M. Neuhold is the second book in her Mafia Bound series. It is the story of a slightly unhinged Mafia kingpin and the MMA fighter who doesn’t want anything to do with him, his family, or his money until he sees a different side of him that leads them to fall in love. Elio Moretti is the second in command to his brother of the Mafia in the town of Wildcliff. He thinks nothing of offing anyone who gets in his or his family’s way or doesn’t follow their rules. He has to be in charge all of the time and it is wearing on him. That is why Orion Barros has piqued his interest. Orion is an undefeated, no holds barred MMA fighter who also participates in underground fighting because he needs the money. His brother, Jack, was an up and coming fighter when he was hit in the head and became a quadriplegic. Orion is keeping him in a nursing home where they take good care of him but it costs a lot more than he is making. That is why he took a loan form the Moretti brothers and why he does the underground fighting so he can pay them back on time. He hates the Morettis because of all the blackmail, murder, and mayhem they cause and wants nothing to do with them. However, Elio has become enamored with him and has shown up to all his fights and goes into his dressing room after every one of them but is rebuffed. This turns Elio on because he wants someone to take charge, hurt, and humiliate him because then he can get away from his real world. This goes on for several months until Orion finally discovers that what Elio wants is him. So he sends him to his knees and tells him what to do in a very dirty love scene and it just makes Elio want him more. They continue to see each other with more hot scenes and Elio helps him when Jack has to go in the hospital by paying off his debt. Orion is dumbfounded by this and when Elio wants him to help him with some jobs he begrudgingly agrees as payback and to get more money to help Jack. This leads them to see each other more often as well as Orion sees that sometimes the Morettis are “the monsters who keep the city from being worse that it is”. During this time he continues to fight and Elio is always there and is his biggest cheerleader. Then Orion has to be the decoy on a big job that almost gets him killed but Elio and his brothers are right there to save him. They then declare their love, even though it is very twisted for both of them and they like it that way. I enjoyed this book but it is quite dark. Elio is all Mafia but has a softer side that he shows to Orion and he loves the pain, humiliation, and violence that Orion can dish out to him. Orion is doing everything he can for his brother but involves the Morettis as a last resort and is now paying them back. He is definitely a dom and isn’t scared by Elio and often puts him in his place which both of them like very much. Their love is slow growing but you know it is real by the end of the book. Elio’s brothers and cousin play a big part in the story as they deal with what is going on in their territory and involve Elio and Orion. They are also accepting of their relationship. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like dark stories involving the Mafia and all the death the destruction that entails as well as MMA fighting and two men who have some twisted ideas about what love should be yet it works for them.
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