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His Revenge

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As a mafia heir, Leo has one goal and a promise to keep. His arranged marriage to the enemy's daughter is just a means to an end. Between his technically savvy best friend and loveable secret sister, Leo may not have room in his heart for anyone else. His beautiful betrothed is far more than he ever expected, with beauty and brains. She may be the daughter of his enemy, but the enemy of your enemy is your friend. Will she be a thorn in his side or his secret weapon?

As a mafia princess, Ella has spent her whole life knowing that she would have an arranged marriage, but she never expected to marry the enemy's son. When her past starts to unravel, some of her biggest secrets are brought to light. Her scars are on full display whether she wants them to be or not. She has to figure out who are her enemies and who are her friends. Will she transfer from one cage to another or is this her opportunity for freedom?

Outside forces are trying to take them out and stop the impending joining of families. Enemies wear the faces of friends and family. Will they work to get the revenge he promised to her father or will his world and future crumble because of his decisions?

244 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 14, 2024

89 people are currently reading
357 people want to read

About the author

C.J. Hight

11 books83 followers
C.J. is born and bred in the desert of Nevada, where she currently resides in Central Oregon with her husband. Having grown up in the Pacific Northwest, she has a soft spot for beautiful green mountainous areas and has an eternal love for the Oregon coast. When she isn't writing she can be found reading, listening to music, or working on her tattoo collection. She is an author of dark romance and loves connecting with her readers. Her love of dark humor and swoony characters heavily influences her work. 

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5 stars
41 (33%)
4 stars
47 (38%)
3 stars
24 (19%)
2 stars
8 (6%)
1 star
3 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Profile Image for Jamie Williams.
503 reviews10 followers
September 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. My only reason for not giving it 5 stars is that it felt a little rushed…I thought the author could have spent a little more time developing their relationship before the wedding, as well as the plans and circumstances leading up to the events of the wedding. But overall it was a quick, enjoyable read. I liked Leo and seeing his character development from the cocky, dominant, alpha mafia leader to the protective, caring, loving man he became. I also loved how careful and considerate he was of Ella’s past trauma and her mental health. Consent was a big theme in this book. There were also some excellent jokes and quips between Leo and Rome which lightened up the tone of the book. The author did break my heart…once you read it you will understand. But give this book a try…I think you will enjoy it like I did, and I’m excited to see where the series goes from here!
Profile Image for Alexandria Williams.
560 reviews63 followers
October 14, 2024
Get ready for a mafia romance that mixes lethal intentions with serious heart—His Revenge is an electrifying ride from start to finish!

Leo, the heir to a mafia dynasty, is cold, calculated, and out for revenge. An arranged marriage to his enemy’s daughter, Ella, is just part of the plan… or so he thinks. 🖤💍

But Ella is no ordinary mafia princess. She’s got secrets, scars, and a strength that catches Leo off guard.

What starts as a power play soon turns into something much more as both of them navigate a web of lies, betrayals, and deadly enemies that wear the faces of friends.

With tensions high and enemies circling, this couple’s chemistry is fire, with just the right amount of spice to keep you hooked. 🔥

The banter between Leo and his best friend, Rome, brings some much-needed humor to the story, balancing out the darkness with some lighthearted moments. You’ll laugh, you’ll swoon, and yes—your heart will break.💔

But the journey is so worth it. Leo’s transformation from an ice-cold mafia king to a protective, loving husband is beautifully written, especially as he navigates Ella’s past trauma with care and respect. Consent is a major theme, and it’s handled with so much sensitivity, making their love story all the more powerful. ❤️

Fast-paced, action-packed, and loaded with emotion, His Revenge will have you flipping through the pages, craving more.

The twists and betrayals? Yeah, you won’t see them coming. And the ending?🤯 Speechless….

If you love a ruthless mafia boss with a heart, a strong, resilient heroine, and a romance filled with tension, danger, and just the right amount of sweetness—His Revenge needs to be your next read.💀📚
82 reviews3 followers
September 24, 2024
I enjoyed the fast pace of the book. It jumped straight into the story without wasting no time.

He is known as the angel of death.
At the start of the booking, Leo was cold, ruthless, and ready to get revenge by marrying his enemies' daughter.
Throughout the book, Leo becomes softer towards Ella, vulnerable, caring, and sweet.

The book has a bit of spice and humour, especially between Leo and his bestfriend, but it also has heartbreak but thankfully gave us a deserving ending.
Profile Image for Michelle Hoag.
24 reviews1 follower
October 16, 2024
I honestly wasn’t a huge fan of this book. I liked the storyline but that’s about it. There was so much repetition of the same “I can’t fix her past but I can make sure she doesn’t feel that way again” and it became annoying to where I would skip over paragraphs. The dialog was awkward because it wasn’t written how people would actually say it when talking. For example, not using any conjunction words. It just made the dialog sound like a bad script from a high school play. The only reason I finished it was to find out how it ended. Even then I was disappointed. It was very rushed and then just ended without any expansion on their lives of what happened after the fact.
170 reviews16 followers
October 14, 2024
"His Revenge" by C.J. Willis is a gripping and high-stakes mafia romance that dives deep into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of love in the world of organized crime. The story centers around Leo, the heir to a powerful mafia empire, who is determined to keep a promise he made—a promise that has shaped his life and decisions. His marriage to Ella, the daughter of a rival mafia boss, is nothing more than a calculated move in his eyes, a way to solidify alliances and further his family’s agenda. But as the layers of their arranged marriage unfold, Leo finds himself confronting far more than he anticipated.

Leo is a captivating protagonist, torn between duty and the possibility of real emotion. His tough exterior hides a vulnerable side that only a few, like his tech-savvy best friend and his secretive, loveable sister, have ever glimpsed. Through these secondary characters, C.J. Willis provides a rich, layered backdrop to Leo's life, showcasing the importance of family ties and loyalty. Leo's internal battle—whether to follow through with the cold revenge plan or to allow himself to open up to Ella—is a central tension in the novel. His growth as a character is slow-burning but incredibly satisfying to witness.

On the other hand, Ella is a mafia princess who has spent her entire life knowing that her future would involve an arranged marriage, though she never expected it to be with the enemy's son. She enters the marriage with her own emotional scars and a past that she’s not eager to share. Ella's character brings depth to the story, as she navigates between the roles imposed on her—being her father's daughter, a wife to the enemy, and a woman with her own agency. Her intelligence and resilience are striking, and readers will find themselves rooting for her as she grapples with the unraveling of her past and faces the darkness threatening her future.

The chemistry between Leo and Ella is electric, but it’s not a smooth journey. Their relationship is full of tension, mistrust, and moments of undeniable connection. Ella’s sharp mind and unshakable strength challenge Leo in ways he didn’t expect, making her much more than a pawn in his game. Meanwhile, Leo’s protective instincts toward Ella, despite their fraught circumstances, hint at a deeper emotional bond forming between them. Watching their dynamic shift from one of cold indifference to something much more complex is one of the novel's greatest strengths.

Outside of the romance, "His Revenge" offers plenty of action and intrigue. With enemies lurking in the shadows and allies turning out to be foes, the suspense is high as both Leo and Ella try to figure out who they can truly trust. The plot is full of unexpected twists, with outside forces working to sabotage the union of their families. As old wounds are reopened and past betrayals come to light, the stakes only get higher, forcing Leo and Ella to confront their own motivations and decide whether they will work together or remain at odds.

The supporting characters, including Leo's best friend and secretive sister, add richness to the story. They provide a glimpse into Leo's world, showing that despite his hardened exterior, his loyalty to the people he cares about runs deep. These characters also help bring some lightness and warmth to an otherwise dark and tension-filled narrative.

C.J. Willis masterfully blends romance with suspense, creating a world where love, loyalty, and power are constantly at odds. The pacing of the novel keeps readers hooked from the first page, as the stakes grow higher with every chapter. Whether you're a fan of mafia romances or looking for a story filled with emotional depth and thrilling action, "His Revenge" is a must-read. Leo and Ella's journey is full of heart-pounding moments, emotional revelations, and a romance that proves to be as fierce as the dangers they face. This book will leave readers eager for more, with its blend of passion, intrigue, and the promise of redemption.
Profile Image for Michelle Boudreau.
102 reviews
July 29, 2025
I feel like it’s skipping some parts that felt important but then also giving so much detail and dragging other things out. I actually have no idea how long the entire story takes place over, it could be a week, could have been months. If this was a longer book it would have been more enjoyable, with more exploration of their relationship and character development. It felt like okay we met and now I love you omg you’re my whole life and I’ll die for you, but we didn’t get to watch the progression of that, it was just instant and I wasn’t following along with it. There was sooooo much repetition though it was annoying, in specific words but also the themes of dialogue between Leo and Ella. Some sentences felt so robotic and just didn’t flow well. I didn’t love the writing style and cadence but the overall story line and plot was okay, the ending was very abrupt and not how I thought it would go.
Profile Image for T.M..
Author 8 books48 followers
October 14, 2024
This book is incredible. You’ve got puns, a heartwarming bromance, action from the beginning, an arranged marriage between enemy families, and a “kick your feet while squealing” love.

C. J. Willis hit it out of the park with this debut, and honestly, you can feel every ounce of love and dedication she poured into these pages. From constant and consistent themes of consent in all things to the way Leo and Ella find their rhythm with one another to Ella and Rome becoming fast partners in crime… it has it all.

I was very blessed to have not only been with CJ from the conception of this book, but to have also been allowed the chance to watch her grow as an author and heal as a person while writing it.

Thank you so much for allowing me to have an early copy to read for my unbiased and truthful thoughts.

Happy publication day!
Profile Image for Sarah.
223 reviews4 followers
October 14, 2024
Tropes: Mafia, Forced Proximity, Arranged Marriage, Rivalry, Trauma and Healing, Bromance, Spicy

This is a mafia enemies to lovers Dark romance.
It is a story of arranged marriage between Leo, the Mafia heir, and Ella; his enemies' Mafia Princess Daughter.

Leo is shown as cold, calculated, and heartless, but how he evolves during the book is fabulous. The same goes for Ella. we are told she is a spoilt brat at the beginning of the story, but she is a strong heroine with her own scars and traumas.

Through the twists and turns, he falls for Ella, and she falls for him in return. The possessiveness and obsession are delicious as he calls her his Queen, his butterfly, and his wife.

I feel like more time could have been spent on the development of their relationship. It does seem quite fast-paced.

Thorough enjoyed this debut book and am looking forward to the next in the series.
Profile Image for Kilee Goode.
153 reviews10 followers
October 16, 2024
I struggled with deciding between a three star and 4 star review and because I enjoyed this book I went with a 4.

However, I found that there was quite a bit of repetition throughout the book and just felt rushed and there could've been more time spent developing the characters and story and wasn't a fan of the ending, I was kind of hoping for more.

Overall it was an enjoyable read despite what I previously mentioned. Loved the banter between Leo and Romeo and think those were my favorite parts.

Also loved that it was mostly the MMC POV which is something I haven't com across much.
17 reviews1 follower
December 15, 2024
Read the triggers. Have you ever had a backstabbing family? A family that hurt you to the point you wanted to run away from them but didn't know where to go since they help you financially? If not count yourself lucky. Have you ended up trusting someone that you didn't think you would and they became your confidant while you learned to distance yourself from your toxic, troublesome, and even abusive family? Well if any of this resonates with you then this book will possibly hit home on some sort of level. CJ does such an amazing job of character building and world building. CJ makes you end up loving characters you didn’t think you would.
20 reviews
October 15, 2024
Leo & Ella🦋

Mostly MMC POV😍 we never get books like this! This book is soo good and fast paced but still flows well and has a good plot! Leo is known as the angel of death and he will do anything for his butterfly and is so respectful to her🥹 Ella is a fighter, she has had to endure so much in her life and Leo is so good to her and sweet and protective! Leo’s best friend Rome is also super sweet & amazing! After that ending I really need book 2 soon!!

* Mafia
* Arranged marriage
* Forced proximity
* Trauma & healing
* Spice
* Rivalry & bromance
* Duet
Profile Image for Torri Heat.
Author 26 books448 followers
September 28, 2024
C.J. Willis's passion for this story is evident on every page of this mafia romance!

This fast-paced romance will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, and leave you wondering what's going to happen next - especially with that ending. I know I have my guesses, but I'm not sharing!!

Consent, and true love despite the obstacles make for a beautiful love story, and Willis has set herself up for an exciting mafia series!
Profile Image for GKP2460 .
4,407 reviews73 followers
October 6, 2024
His Revenge is an arranged marriage story of Mafia Heir Leo and Mafia Princess Ella. A marriage between enemies and we all know that can go either way! I enjoyed His Revenge! Seeing Leo evolve from cold, hard and calculating to warm, caring and compassionate was fantastic. This is a great fast-paced story and will utterly break your heart in some places and have you laughing out loud in others. This author has done a fantastic job balancing the characters and storyline. I can't wait for more!
Profile Image for lizsreadingjourney.
170 reviews8 followers
November 4, 2024
🦋Mafia Romance
🦋Forced Proximity
🦋Arranged Marriage
🦋Trauma/Healing
⚠️Child SA Off Page

I’m so excited to be reviewing this book. I went in blind (I tend to read books without reading the blurbs) & I was NOT disappointed. This was a fast read for me since it’s less than 200 pages. It was easy to read through and the story line was pretty easy to follow. I love the bromance between Rome & Leo as much as I love Leo & Ella.
Profile Image for Harlie.
28 reviews
May 11, 2025
The only reason that this book didn’t get 3 stars from me is because I would have loved to see more between Ella and Leo. It was very fast paced with their relationship and I really would have loved to see more of a build up to the fire that ignited between them! I will definitely be looking into more by this author as I loved the writing style. 🥰 And my butterfly fanatic heart was so happy to see that was the nickname that Leo chose to Ella. 🦋
Profile Image for Ladynorasrc .
122 reviews2 followers
September 3, 2025
Leo, the heir to a mafia dynasty. He is cold, calculated, and out for revenge. An arranged marriage to his enemy’s daughter, Ella, is just part of the plan or is it....This is a mafia romance that mixes lethal intentions with serious heart. Overall it was a quick, enjoyable read. I liked Leo and seeing his character development from the dominant, alpha mafia leader to the protective, caring, loving man he became.
Profile Image for Ashley.
472 reviews16 followers
October 9, 2024
I wasn't ready to read this book and fall for Romeo. He was the sweetest person in the whole book. This book was very face paced and you feel all the emotions. When Romeo and Leo joke you feel it like you are in on it. You will feel it all good and bad. Be prepared for it. It was an emotional read for sure.
Profile Image for Sarah Blanksma.
26 reviews1 follower
October 12, 2024
This was a great book. Only reason I didn't give this particular story 5 stars is because to me it felt a little rushed. C.J. Willis did an amazing job of making me feel what the characters were feeling. When the Angel of Deaths ice cold heart melts due to his arranged marriage bride... what more could you really ask for?
Profile Image for BurntbyHades.
83 reviews3 followers
Read
October 14, 2024
C.J. delivers her duet of revenge being served by a devil dressed as man looking wayyyyy to good in and out of a suit.
He is all kind of delicious, but my eye is on Romeo.
I love how we get bronze, brains, and bromance. The levels of consent thread throughout this book is another level of sexy I didn't know I needed. I want more.
Can't wait to see what C.J. brings us next.
Profile Image for Heather E..
55 reviews
October 15, 2024
First of all how dare you?????? Playing with my emotions and if you read this you'll know exactly what I am talking about. I absolutely loved Ella's love story. You have spice, love, double crossing, blood.... what's not to love. If this isn't on your TBR list...what is wrong with you?? I want more to this we need more!!!!!
Profile Image for Stealthy Dragon 623.
157 reviews
November 2, 2024
I love a good Insta-lust mafia romance, and this story did not disappoint! I didn't like how the story ended with his sister. I would have loved to have her love story be next. Even with that being said, I am still looking forward to book 2!

Thanks to the author for sending me the arc and giving me the opportunity to read the book before hand ♡
Profile Image for Jay Luis.
Author 3 books2 followers
March 28, 2025
Mafia romance

He wants revenge for what his sister went through and a part of his plan is an arranged marriage with the daughter of his enemy.
What he never expected was to start developing feelings for her to recognize that the spoiled princess front that everyone thinks of her is only a false for the worst things possible to have happened to her.
Profile Image for Melissa Thyen.
221 reviews21 followers
October 9, 2024
Great book. I'm giving it a 4 because I wanted more. It felt rushed at the end. It was a story of mafia bosses, the rights and wrongs the innocent people go through, and love that comes from those tragedies.
Profile Image for Vina Kent.
Author 2 books50 followers
October 14, 2024
This is book has such wow factor. I was impressed with creative writing and character building, the relationships made this work really now. And never knowing exactly what’s going to happen next was done well. Great read. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for The Bookworm Hermit .
549 reviews11 followers
October 15, 2024
This was a great book. At times I wish Ella wasn't so cry-y but I love the strength she showed. She overcane trauma and became queen.

The way Leo respected and treated her is just swoon worthy. He may be the Angel of Death but she is his soul.

Rome ...that's all I can say.
Profile Image for Lauren (Kevra La Luna).
89 reviews2 followers
October 21, 2024
I had such high hopes for this book... it started out so great and drew me right in.

But I was so confused throughout. I was given so much detail in aspects that I don't think were necessary to the plot, and then things that actually mattered to the plot were rushed.
Profile Image for Kristina Schurmann.
624 reviews3 followers
October 28, 2024
Leo is the epitome of a book boyfriend. A morally grey character who would burn the world down for Ella. This book was so good. I love a good mafia book and this is one of them. The only thing I wish is that it had a little more..more spice and more action. I would definitely recommend!
Profile Image for Emily-Rose Brlevich .
143 reviews14 followers
November 29, 2024
I loved the Mafia romance, but I did feel it was a little face paced and quick to finish. Even though I felt that I still really enjoyed reading this. I also loved that the spicy parts were just the right amount for the book.
I am looking forward to trying more by this author.
Profile Image for Rise.
1,511 reviews
April 16, 2025
This was an interesting first read by this author. Claire has gone through a lot and so has Ella, however they turned out to be strong young women. Although I did not expect what happened here I was truly looking for another outcome.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews

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