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Unholy Union
Born into hatred. Bound by marriage. Consumed by a forbidden fire.
I was a pawn to end a mafia war. A peace offering from my father to his bloodthirsty rivals. Nothing more than a pretty plaything for the ruthless heir to the throne held by our enemies.
Cato Valente is a monster, and I’m the pet trapped inside his gilded cage. Cold, cruel, and cunning, he demands a loyal and obedient wife.
But my devotion is to vengeance, and his downfall is my only desire.
He intends to break me, but I refuse to be tamed. I am a problem, not a prize. A viper in disguise, not a wife.
His unyielding grip doesn’t scare me. It’s the storm in his eyes and the heat of his touch that make my heart pound. It’s the way my body begins to betray me no matter how hard I try to resist him.
In a world where love is weakness, hatred is a weapon, and wielding power is the only way to survive, the once-sacred line between treachery and temptation begins to blur when two enemies are forced together in an unholy union.
I was a pawn to end a mafia war. A peace offering from my father to his bloodthirsty rivals. Nothing more than a pretty plaything for the ruthless heir to the throne held by our enemies.
Cato Valente is a monster, and I’m the pet trapped inside his gilded cage. Cold, cruel, and cunning, he demands a loyal and obedient wife.
But my devotion is to vengeance, and his downfall is my only desire.
He intends to break me, but I refuse to be tamed. I am a problem, not a prize. A viper in disguise, not a wife.
His unyielding grip doesn’t scare me. It’s the storm in his eyes and the heat of his touch that make my heart pound. It’s the way my body begins to betray me no matter how hard I try to resist him.
In a world where love is weakness, hatred is a weapon, and wielding power is the only way to survive, the once-sacred line between treachery and temptation begins to blur when two enemies are forced together in an unholy union.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2025
23 people are currently reading
235 people want to read
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August 21, 2025
This is a pretty straight forward arranged marriage, mafia romance and I say that with love. The writing is good, the characters are interesting and the spice is excellent. The spice in this one starts pretty early and doesn’t stop. The plot is good as well if a bit predictable. I loved Sabrina and how she refused to take any crap from Cato. She is seductive and a great actress when needed but it pays off for her in the bedroom whether that is her intention or not.
Thank you to Grey’s Promotion for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 8/21/25
Thank you to Grey’s Promotion for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: 8/21/25
August 18, 2025
*MF
*Contemporary
*Dual-1st-PoV
*Enemies-to-Lovers
*Arranged Marriage
*Mafia
*Virgin FMC
*Possessive MMC
*Mid Burn
*Book 1 / ?
Spicy hate’fudgery’ 😜
I enjoyed the fact that this had true enemy elements to it, not just oh their families are rivals so they hate each other but our FMC, Sabrina, actually tries to unalive her betrothed Cato 😅
These families have a serious hate for each other and that’s fed through to Sabrina the ‘delicate’ mafia princess who turns out to be an absolute firecracker who won’t take things lying down….well except Cato 😉 when he’s not being an arrogant control freak! It appears at times the chemistry between them wins out over the hate and boy oh boy does that create absolute fire between them in the segs scenes 🌶️ Cato as a character is a ‘I hate her but only I am allowed to torment her’ which leads to some interesting interactions between them 😆 however at some point that hate turns to genuine care as their flames are stoked higher 🔥 there are some challenges to their new found relationship and some strong twists as to who’s behind the true issues between there sides! Overall it’s a good plot with a great mix of spice and action, it’s moves along at a substantial pace bringing you a satisfying HFN 😁
*Contemporary
*Dual-1st-PoV
*Enemies-to-Lovers
*Arranged Marriage
*Mafia
*Virgin FMC
*Possessive MMC
*Mid Burn
*Book 1 / ?
Spicy hate’fudgery’ 😜
I enjoyed the fact that this had true enemy elements to it, not just oh their families are rivals so they hate each other but our FMC, Sabrina, actually tries to unalive her betrothed Cato 😅
These families have a serious hate for each other and that’s fed through to Sabrina the ‘delicate’ mafia princess who turns out to be an absolute firecracker who won’t take things lying down….well except Cato 😉 when he’s not being an arrogant control freak! It appears at times the chemistry between them wins out over the hate and boy oh boy does that create absolute fire between them in the segs scenes 🌶️ Cato as a character is a ‘I hate her but only I am allowed to torment her’ which leads to some interesting interactions between them 😆 however at some point that hate turns to genuine care as their flames are stoked higher 🔥 there are some challenges to their new found relationship and some strong twists as to who’s behind the true issues between there sides! Overall it’s a good plot with a great mix of spice and action, it’s moves along at a substantial pace bringing you a satisfying HFN 😁
August 18, 2025
Wow, that’s how you write an enemies to lovers story! Unholy Union by Lana Sinclair was everything I could’ve hoped for and more!
Sabrina? A young woman with a strong personality, a brilliant “actress” and a hopeless romantic dreaming of a love-filled relationship. Cato? A cold, calculating man who sees marriage as nothing more than a transaction and love as meaningless. These two? Actual enemies… and I loved that. They come from rival families and genuinely have reasons to hate each other. Throw an arranged marriage into the mix and you’ve got yourself an absolutely delicious story.
I loved how you can really feel the difference between Cato’s and Sabrina’s chapters, their personalities truly shine through. I also appreciated the transition from enemies to lovers and how their relationship develops gradually. Nothing feels rushed, instead, we get small, meaningful gestures that slowly bring them closer. They’re both hesitant, yet the attraction is undeniable, and the tension between them is absolutely delicious. The dialogue is sharp and full of witty banter. The pacing is fast and the story keeps the focus firmly on the two of them.
It was refreshing to see an enemies to lovers plot that was actually thoughtfully developed. The reasons behind their hatred are there and they stick. They’re not brushed aside or forgotten, and the story doesn’t rush past the animosity. On the contrary, the two actively scheme against each other. The story strikes the perfect balance between a well-crafted enemies to lovers dynamic and a grounded, believable romance.
★★★★★
Big congrats to @lanasinclairauthor, and thanks to @greyspromo for the ARC!
“You’ll get your wife, Cato. But I won’t be easy. I won’t be quiet or obedient. And I’ll never truly be yours.” ❤️🔥
Sabrina? A young woman with a strong personality, a brilliant “actress” and a hopeless romantic dreaming of a love-filled relationship. Cato? A cold, calculating man who sees marriage as nothing more than a transaction and love as meaningless. These two? Actual enemies… and I loved that. They come from rival families and genuinely have reasons to hate each other. Throw an arranged marriage into the mix and you’ve got yourself an absolutely delicious story.
I loved how you can really feel the difference between Cato’s and Sabrina’s chapters, their personalities truly shine through. I also appreciated the transition from enemies to lovers and how their relationship develops gradually. Nothing feels rushed, instead, we get small, meaningful gestures that slowly bring them closer. They’re both hesitant, yet the attraction is undeniable, and the tension between them is absolutely delicious. The dialogue is sharp and full of witty banter. The pacing is fast and the story keeps the focus firmly on the two of them.
It was refreshing to see an enemies to lovers plot that was actually thoughtfully developed. The reasons behind their hatred are there and they stick. They’re not brushed aside or forgotten, and the story doesn’t rush past the animosity. On the contrary, the two actively scheme against each other. The story strikes the perfect balance between a well-crafted enemies to lovers dynamic and a grounded, believable romance.
★★★★★
Big congrats to @lanasinclairauthor, and thanks to @greyspromo for the ARC!
“You’ll get your wife, Cato. But I won’t be easy. I won’t be quiet or obedient. And I’ll never truly be yours.” ❤️🔥
August 13, 2025
“ 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘩.”
This book is a Dark Arranged Marriage Mafia Romance.
The MMC Cato Valente is heir to the Mafia. His family had a long rival with the Corsini family.
Sabrina Corsini is the FMC, and daughter to Don Corsini, his only living child. He arranges for her to be married off to their enemy Cato.
“𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘺. 𝘔𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘺, 𝘮𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦.”
For most of this book I was irritated with Cato, but he did grow on me.
There is some suspense in this book that had me speculating, right up until I was proven wrong on my theories.
There was a jaw dropping twist. 🤯
And unanswered questions that I believe will be answered in a book 2.
It does not end on a cliffhanger, the unanswered questions are from side characters.
In the end I enjoyed this book and gave it 4 stars.
“𝘏𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘰 𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘯𝘰 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯; 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘮𝘦.”
This book is a Dark Arranged Marriage Mafia Romance.
The MMC Cato Valente is heir to the Mafia. His family had a long rival with the Corsini family.
Sabrina Corsini is the FMC, and daughter to Don Corsini, his only living child. He arranges for her to be married off to their enemy Cato.
“𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘺. 𝘔𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘺, 𝘮𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦.”
For most of this book I was irritated with Cato, but he did grow on me.
There is some suspense in this book that had me speculating, right up until I was proven wrong on my theories.
There was a jaw dropping twist. 🤯
And unanswered questions that I believe will be answered in a book 2.
It does not end on a cliffhanger, the unanswered questions are from side characters.
In the end I enjoyed this book and gave it 4 stars.
“𝘏𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘰 𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘯𝘰 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯; 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘮𝘦.”
August 16, 2025
4 stars, 3.5 on the spice scale.
This debut novel delivered a true enemies-to-lovers mafia romance, and I was hooked from the start. I received it as an ARC and was excited to support a new author—especially one who came out swinging with such a bold, character-driven story. If this is their first book (unless they’re writing under a pen name), it’s an impressive launch.
The setup is classic mafia tension: the Valente's and Corsini's have been at war for years, and a truce is proposed through marriage. Cato, heir to the Valente empire, agrees to marry Sabrina, the Corsini mafia princess. He’s strategic and composed, while she’s furious and grieving—especially since she believes the Valente's are responsible for her brother’s death. Her plan? Marry Cato, then make him pay. His plan? Marry Sabrina, then use her to take over the Corsini empire.
Despite the violence and manipulation, their relationship evolves with surprising tenderness. Cato begins to see the toxic influence of his father—who wants Sabrina silenced and controlled—and starts to push back. Sabrina, meanwhile, slowly lets down her guard as trust builds between them. Their dynamic is electric, and I loved how their banter and intimacy unfolded, especially against the backdrop of mafia politics and power plays.
The third act introduces a twist that didn’t quite land for me. While I appreciate the author’s ambition to surprise readers, the reveal felt unnecessarily convoluted. That said, it didn’t ruin the book; it just nudged my rating from a potential 4.5 to a solid 4.
Overall, this was a strong first instalment with compelling characters, sharp tension, and a romance that burns hot. Cato and Sabrina were a joy to read, and I’m excited to see where the series goes—especially with hints that Cato’s siblings may get their own stories. A great start for a promising new author, and I’ll definitely be picking up the next book when it arrives.
*Thank you to the author and Grey's Promotions for an ARC of this title.*
This debut novel delivered a true enemies-to-lovers mafia romance, and I was hooked from the start. I received it as an ARC and was excited to support a new author—especially one who came out swinging with such a bold, character-driven story. If this is their first book (unless they’re writing under a pen name), it’s an impressive launch.
The setup is classic mafia tension: the Valente's and Corsini's have been at war for years, and a truce is proposed through marriage. Cato, heir to the Valente empire, agrees to marry Sabrina, the Corsini mafia princess. He’s strategic and composed, while she’s furious and grieving—especially since she believes the Valente's are responsible for her brother’s death. Her plan? Marry Cato, then make him pay. His plan? Marry Sabrina, then use her to take over the Corsini empire.
Despite the violence and manipulation, their relationship evolves with surprising tenderness. Cato begins to see the toxic influence of his father—who wants Sabrina silenced and controlled—and starts to push back. Sabrina, meanwhile, slowly lets down her guard as trust builds between them. Their dynamic is electric, and I loved how their banter and intimacy unfolded, especially against the backdrop of mafia politics and power plays.
The third act introduces a twist that didn’t quite land for me. While I appreciate the author’s ambition to surprise readers, the reveal felt unnecessarily convoluted. That said, it didn’t ruin the book; it just nudged my rating from a potential 4.5 to a solid 4.
Overall, this was a strong first instalment with compelling characters, sharp tension, and a romance that burns hot. Cato and Sabrina were a joy to read, and I’m excited to see where the series goes—especially with hints that Cato’s siblings may get their own stories. A great start for a promising new author, and I’ll definitely be picking up the next book when it arrives.
*Thank you to the author and Grey's Promotions for an ARC of this title.*
September 4, 2025
“𝓘𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓭𝓸𝓷'𝓽 𝓽𝓻𝔂 𝓽𝓸 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓱𝓾𝓼𝓫𝓪𝓷𝓭, 𝓭𝓸 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓵𝓵𝔂 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮 𝓱𝓲𝓶?”
Listen…this isn’t my first rodeo when it comes to dark mafia romances, but, THIS IS my first time reading Lana Sinclair…and let me tell you…I’m HOOKED! When I say I want a DARK MAFIA ROMANCE WITH ENEMIES TO LOVERS?? This is what I mean!!! This was TRUE enemies to lovers, and honestly…I still think they kinda hate each other a little bit at the end and I love that for THEM…and even more for ME!🤭
Cato is our MMC…talk dark and handsome, son of one of the most dangerous media families…brought up to believe that woman are pretty arm candy…seen and not heard. And that is exactly how he lives his life.
Sabrina is our Mafia princess FMC…she grew up completely different. Raised with love and care. But tragedy continues to strike her family with loss after loss…first her mom then her brother. But the hits keep coming when she’s told she’s going to marry the son of her families rivals. Not just rivals, but the family who unalived her brother.
The hate between Sabrina and Cato isn’t just something they have learned from their families long standing rival….these two TRULY loathe each other. This marriage is not something either of them wants. Sabrina has always dreamed of finding love and happiness. Cato is not interested in marriage AT ALL. Seeing it as a weakness. And he makes sure that Sabrina knows that this is a marriage to keep the peace between families and will NEVER result in him loving her. And that only makes Sabrina hate him more.
Cato thought he was getting the perfect, docile, virginal bride who would obey him and do as she told…but what he got was the complete opposite. Sabrina is not about to fold to ANY man…especially her husband. She fights him…LITERALLY…at every turn. 😂 She’s feisty and stubborn…defiant and strong and I love her so much. These two fight like it’s an Olympic sport…the banter and push and pull is relentless.
At some point this fighting ignites passion between them. Cato finds himself falling for his wife no matter how bad he tries to fight it. The hate shmex?? IMPECCABLE! Literally…yes give me more. Hating each other was like foreplay. But it all leads to real feelings developing between them.
Now…this book isn’t all about their blooming romance. No no no. There’s SOOOOO much more to it. The PLOT is just as explosive. This marriage that was meant to keep the families from shedding more 🩸, is actually a setup. There’s betrayal, secrets and twists and turns that shocked even me! I love books that keep you on the edge of your seat as much as they keep you clutching your pearls and this one absolutely delivered!
I’m definitely a fan of Lana Sinclair and CANNOT WAIT to see what the next book brings! ❤️
Thank you so much to Lana Sinclair and Greys PR for the opportunity to ARC read this incredible book.❤️
🖤Dark Mafia Romance
❤️Arranged Marriage
🖤Rival Families
❤️Romantic Suspense
🖤Spice with Plot!
❤️Age Gap
🖤Possessive Hero
❤️Virgin Heroine
🖤Enemies to Lovers
❤️Hate Shmex
🖤Touch Her & 💀
❤️One Bed
🖤Revenge
❤️Secrets & Lies
🖤BDSM
❤️Opposites Attract
🖤Brooding MMC
❤️Feisty FMC
🖤”Crawl to Me”
❤️Dual POV
🖤HFN
Listen…this isn’t my first rodeo when it comes to dark mafia romances, but, THIS IS my first time reading Lana Sinclair…and let me tell you…I’m HOOKED! When I say I want a DARK MAFIA ROMANCE WITH ENEMIES TO LOVERS?? This is what I mean!!! This was TRUE enemies to lovers, and honestly…I still think they kinda hate each other a little bit at the end and I love that for THEM…and even more for ME!🤭
Cato is our MMC…talk dark and handsome, son of one of the most dangerous media families…brought up to believe that woman are pretty arm candy…seen and not heard. And that is exactly how he lives his life.
Sabrina is our Mafia princess FMC…she grew up completely different. Raised with love and care. But tragedy continues to strike her family with loss after loss…first her mom then her brother. But the hits keep coming when she’s told she’s going to marry the son of her families rivals. Not just rivals, but the family who unalived her brother.
The hate between Sabrina and Cato isn’t just something they have learned from their families long standing rival….these two TRULY loathe each other. This marriage is not something either of them wants. Sabrina has always dreamed of finding love and happiness. Cato is not interested in marriage AT ALL. Seeing it as a weakness. And he makes sure that Sabrina knows that this is a marriage to keep the peace between families and will NEVER result in him loving her. And that only makes Sabrina hate him more.
Cato thought he was getting the perfect, docile, virginal bride who would obey him and do as she told…but what he got was the complete opposite. Sabrina is not about to fold to ANY man…especially her husband. She fights him…LITERALLY…at every turn. 😂 She’s feisty and stubborn…defiant and strong and I love her so much. These two fight like it’s an Olympic sport…the banter and push and pull is relentless.
At some point this fighting ignites passion between them. Cato finds himself falling for his wife no matter how bad he tries to fight it. The hate shmex?? IMPECCABLE! Literally…yes give me more. Hating each other was like foreplay. But it all leads to real feelings developing between them.
Now…this book isn’t all about their blooming romance. No no no. There’s SOOOOO much more to it. The PLOT is just as explosive. This marriage that was meant to keep the families from shedding more 🩸, is actually a setup. There’s betrayal, secrets and twists and turns that shocked even me! I love books that keep you on the edge of your seat as much as they keep you clutching your pearls and this one absolutely delivered!
I’m definitely a fan of Lana Sinclair and CANNOT WAIT to see what the next book brings! ❤️
Thank you so much to Lana Sinclair and Greys PR for the opportunity to ARC read this incredible book.❤️
🖤Dark Mafia Romance
❤️Arranged Marriage
🖤Rival Families
❤️Romantic Suspense
🖤Spice with Plot!
❤️Age Gap
🖤Possessive Hero
❤️Virgin Heroine
🖤Enemies to Lovers
❤️Hate Shmex
🖤Touch Her & 💀
❤️One Bed
🖤Revenge
❤️Secrets & Lies
🖤BDSM
❤️Opposites Attract
🖤Brooding MMC
❤️Feisty FMC
🖤”Crawl to Me”
❤️Dual POV
🖤HFN
August 19, 2025
Thank you Greys and Lana for allowing me to be an ARC on this true and glorious enemies to lover romance. I really enjoyed reading about Cato and Sabrina so much.
They say revenge is best served cold but this book heat up and thawed that hate between these two. That didn’t make it better within the families though.
Cato is set to take over the family next and Sabrina is the mafia princess to the rival mafia family. When their parent arranged their marriage they each had a scheming plan on how it would play out. In all their scheming they never planned for how everything would turn out though.
It may have been a poisonous l, stabby beginning to the marriage but he finally broke through to Sabrina’s softer side. She is still sassy til the end but he lives it and it makes their “play time” extra fun for them.
I highly recommend this for my mafia and dark romance readers. It was amazing and while it has a cliffy it’s not going to leave you wondering about our couple here. Def read it NOW!!!!
Enemies to Lovers
Arranged Marriage
Forced Proximity
Mafia Romance
Rival Families
Possessive MMC
Innocent (v!rgin) FMC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💋☠️🖤
🥰🥰🥰🥰
They say revenge is best served cold but this book heat up and thawed that hate between these two. That didn’t make it better within the families though.
Cato is set to take over the family next and Sabrina is the mafia princess to the rival mafia family. When their parent arranged their marriage they each had a scheming plan on how it would play out. In all their scheming they never planned for how everything would turn out though.
It may have been a poisonous l, stabby beginning to the marriage but he finally broke through to Sabrina’s softer side. She is still sassy til the end but he lives it and it makes their “play time” extra fun for them.
I highly recommend this for my mafia and dark romance readers. It was amazing and while it has a cliffy it’s not going to leave you wondering about our couple here. Def read it NOW!!!!
Enemies to Lovers
Arranged Marriage
Forced Proximity
Mafia Romance
Rival Families
Possessive MMC
Innocent (v!rgin) FMC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💋☠️🖤
🥰🥰🥰🥰
August 23, 2025
If you don’t try to 🔪 your husband, do you really love him?
Cato, Valente heir, Cold as ice, grew up in an even colder household where women are meant to be seen and not heard. Imagine his irritation when he finds out his supposed docile, virgin bride is a sharp-tongued fierce bombshell who has a mind of her own.
Sabrina, mafia princess, grew up in a loving home that was ripped from her when her mother & brother passed to soon. Mami to an “illness” and brother Leo at the hands of her new in-laws familia. When she found out she was sentenced to a marriage with her family’s enemy, she felt more alone than ever. Against all odds, she broke through the mold they were trying to fit her in and made Cato see what life could be like with a strong queen by his side.
This was an excellent mafia read. Every chapter was a surprise and had me anxiously flipping to the next page. You never knew what either Cato or Sabrina had up their sleeve.
Tropes
✨enemies-to-lovers
🔪forced proximity
✨touch her & ☠️
🔪mafia romance
✨one bed
🔪age gap
✨arranged marriage
🔪revenge
✨virgin heroine
🔪BDSM
⭐️4.5
😈🤤Spice
💯Plot
🖤HEA
Thank you Grey’s Promotion & Lana Sinclair for sharing this incredible ARC. Excited for book two - I’m hoping we find out a bit more about playboy, Cassian. 🥵
Cato, Valente heir, Cold as ice, grew up in an even colder household where women are meant to be seen and not heard. Imagine his irritation when he finds out his supposed docile, virgin bride is a sharp-tongued fierce bombshell who has a mind of her own.
Sabrina, mafia princess, grew up in a loving home that was ripped from her when her mother & brother passed to soon. Mami to an “illness” and brother Leo at the hands of her new in-laws familia. When she found out she was sentenced to a marriage with her family’s enemy, she felt more alone than ever. Against all odds, she broke through the mold they were trying to fit her in and made Cato see what life could be like with a strong queen by his side.
This was an excellent mafia read. Every chapter was a surprise and had me anxiously flipping to the next page. You never knew what either Cato or Sabrina had up their sleeve.
Tropes
✨enemies-to-lovers
🔪forced proximity
✨touch her & ☠️
🔪mafia romance
✨one bed
🔪age gap
✨arranged marriage
🔪revenge
✨virgin heroine
🔪BDSM
⭐️4.5
😈🤤Spice
💯Plot
🖤HEA
Thank you Grey’s Promotion & Lana Sinclair for sharing this incredible ARC. Excited for book two - I’m hoping we find out a bit more about playboy, Cassian. 🥵
August 16, 2025
Thank you to the author and Grey’s Promotions for this ARC!
This book had everything I enjoy in a dark romance—rival families, enemies-to-lovers, and a mafia backdrop. I loved how the author portrayed Cato and Sabrina’s struggle between honoring their family legacy and following their hearts.
Their slow shift into love was satisfying, even though there were moments when I wanted to slap Cato and his yeye mouth 😂. The character growth made it worth it.
And that plot twist towards the end? I did not see it coming—you’ll have to read it to understand!
This was my first book by this author, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Solid 4-star read, and I can’t wait to dive into more of her work. Highly recommend!
This book had everything I enjoy in a dark romance—rival families, enemies-to-lovers, and a mafia backdrop. I loved how the author portrayed Cato and Sabrina’s struggle between honoring their family legacy and following their hearts.
Their slow shift into love was satisfying, even though there were moments when I wanted to slap Cato and his yeye mouth 😂. The character growth made it worth it.
And that plot twist towards the end? I did not see it coming—you’ll have to read it to understand!
This was my first book by this author, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Solid 4-star read, and I can’t wait to dive into more of her work. Highly recommend!
September 2, 2025
The TENSION! Oh, the tension! This is why I love mafia romances! I couldn’t stop turning the pages for this one! 🥵 I loved Sabrina and her sassy side! She was a daddy’s girl down to her bones. But when her marriage gets arranged to her enemy, what could possibly go wrong? Cato is the hot made man that everybody has eyes for and he thinks of his marriage to Sabrina as strictly business. This is a true enemies to lovers story and Lana writes it so well! I love a good “hate to love you” kinda relationship because it makes the HEA so hard earned and well deserved! If you love mafia romances or even if you’re looking to dip your foot into the sun-genre, I highly recommend picking this up!
August 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was so good!! Arranged marriage between two rival mafia families. With those tropes I was instantly hooked but the enemies to lovers was excellently done throughout the whole book with a perfect ending. There’s amazing chemistry between Cato and Sabrina from the beginning but I loved that she didn’t back down from him even when he was being an a-hole. I was pleasantly surprised at the end not anticipating the twist. Overall a great read
This book was so good!! Arranged marriage between two rival mafia families. With those tropes I was instantly hooked but the enemies to lovers was excellently done throughout the whole book with a perfect ending. There’s amazing chemistry between Cato and Sabrina from the beginning but I loved that she didn’t back down from him even when he was being an a-hole. I was pleasantly surprised at the end not anticipating the twist. Overall a great read
August 20, 2025
Oh god… this was HOT
But next is the bratva, i can just feel it 🫣🥵🥵
The turns this book took, my mind is blown but honestly how it ended was seriously perfect
But next is the bratva, i can just feel it 🫣🥵🥵
The turns this book took, my mind is blown but honestly how it ended was seriously perfect
August 11, 2025
(ARC REVIEW) This was what it is...a classic mafia romance story. Nothing about it was particularly intriguing, I enjoyed the story but I kept putting it down and getting distracted. I've already forgotten most of the plot. But it was well written and good enough.
August 27, 2025
This was traditionally your average enemies/rivals to lovers mafia romance. I genuinely loved how toxic this relationship was, and I mean that in the nicest way possible, because they were true-true enemies. They could not stand each other and neither could either of their families and the fact that they were forced to marry and the hate sex scenes were impeccable, honestly. But the plot twist was freaking insane! I did not see that coming at all! That twist slapped me so hard because I expected one thing and I got a completely different answer, and it was fantastic. I absolutely loved it and I obviously devoured this book in like a day and a half, but will absolutely recommend if you want a good, dark, enemies-to-lovers mafia romance.
August 25, 2025
UNHOLY UNION is the first instalment in Lana Sinclair’s contemporary, adult THE VALENTE LEGACY dark, erotic, Mafia romance series. This is heir to the Valente Crime Family Cato Valente, and twenty-three year old, Mafia princess Sabrina Corsini’s story line.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Cato and Sabrina) UNHOLY UNION follows in the wake of the arranged marriage between heir to the Valente Crime Family Cato Valente, and twenty-three year old, Mafia princess Sabrina Corsini. In an effort to shore up power Don Rinaldo Corsini arranges for his daughter to marry the eldest son of the Valente Crime Family, Cato Valente, but all is not as it appears to be. Sabrina Corsini wants nothing to do with a Mafia marriage, and is determined to make Cato’s life a proverbial h*ll but from the outset someone is targeting our story line heroine, and Cato finds himself falling for the woman who could break his heart.
The world building focuses on the tempestuous relationship between our story line couple as the Valente family work behind the scenes to gain control and rip apart a rival’s business but when the truth is revealed, Sabrina will find herself on the outside looking in when betrayal comes from every side. Trust must be earned but someone is determined to end our heroine’s life before she has a chance to settle into a relationship she never wanted.
The relationship between Cato and Sabrina begins as an arranged marriage that neither one is happy to accept. Sabrina is determined to end the relationship any way she can even if it means destroying the man with whom she will fall in love. The $ex scenes are erotic and provocative.
The colorful, powerful and often questionable secondary and supporting characters include Sabrina’s father Don Rinaldo Corsini; Cato’s brother Caspian, and their father Don Augusto Valente; Cato’s right hand man Lazaro; and Sabrina’s best friend Tessa Lucchesi. The requisite evil has many faces.
UNHOLY UNION is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, dysfunctional family dynamics, secrets and lies, mistrust and misunderstanding, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is dramatic, twisted and edgy; the romance is seductive and passionate; the characters are determined, charismatic and high-strung.
copy supplied for review
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Cato and Sabrina) UNHOLY UNION follows in the wake of the arranged marriage between heir to the Valente Crime Family Cato Valente, and twenty-three year old, Mafia princess Sabrina Corsini. In an effort to shore up power Don Rinaldo Corsini arranges for his daughter to marry the eldest son of the Valente Crime Family, Cato Valente, but all is not as it appears to be. Sabrina Corsini wants nothing to do with a Mafia marriage, and is determined to make Cato’s life a proverbial h*ll but from the outset someone is targeting our story line heroine, and Cato finds himself falling for the woman who could break his heart.
The world building focuses on the tempestuous relationship between our story line couple as the Valente family work behind the scenes to gain control and rip apart a rival’s business but when the truth is revealed, Sabrina will find herself on the outside looking in when betrayal comes from every side. Trust must be earned but someone is determined to end our heroine’s life before she has a chance to settle into a relationship she never wanted.
The relationship between Cato and Sabrina begins as an arranged marriage that neither one is happy to accept. Sabrina is determined to end the relationship any way she can even if it means destroying the man with whom she will fall in love. The $ex scenes are erotic and provocative.
The colorful, powerful and often questionable secondary and supporting characters include Sabrina’s father Don Rinaldo Corsini; Cato’s brother Caspian, and their father Don Augusto Valente; Cato’s right hand man Lazaro; and Sabrina’s best friend Tessa Lucchesi. The requisite evil has many faces.
UNHOLY UNION is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, dysfunctional family dynamics, secrets and lies, mistrust and misunderstanding, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is dramatic, twisted and edgy; the romance is seductive and passionate; the characters are determined, charismatic and high-strung.
copy supplied for review
August 11, 2025
💍Arranged Marriage
🌶️Enemies to Lovers
💀Revenge
🖤Mafia
Unholy union by Lana Sinclair had everything that I love in a dark romance book! Mafia, arranged marriage, enemies to lovers, age gap. There wasn’t a trope that I didn’t love in this entire book!
We start off with an arranged marriage between two rival mafia families: Sabrina Corsini and Cato Valente. Sabrina and Cato both go into the marriage unwillingly and not happy to be marrying a rival. Cato is very much our grumpy MMC, he is not happy to be pushed into this marriage, but as the heir to the Valente mafia, he is pretty much told he has to do this by his father, the Don. Sabrina is also upset, as she’s pulled into her father‘s office and told that she has to marry the man whose family murdered her brother. These families have been at war for years and this marriage is going to cause peace for the mafia and end a lot of the bloodshed.
Sabrina pushes Cato at every turn, but he is also unwilling to love her and tells her that no matter what it is never going to be a love match and this is only going to be a marriage of convenience. While it might seem like the crux of this book is the romance between the FMC and the MMC, there is actually way more at work here between the two rival families. Even though the marriage was supposed to end the war, it is actually a trick, and Cato‘s family is still planning on overruling Sabrina’s. In a lot of romance books, the plot is in the background and the romance takes center stage, however, in Unholy Union, there was an equal amount of romance, and let me tell you some of the spicy scenes were off the charts, but there’s also a fantastic plot here.
I’m not surprised many times by books, but I was absolutely floored at the twist that comes in the end of the book, obviously I will not spoil anything but for a seasoned reader like me to be shocked is a pretty big deal. You’re going to love this book if you’re looking for something that is dark romance, but still has a really interesting plot. It seems like the book end is possibly setting up for Cato‘s brother to be the next MMC in the series and I do like him however, I am dying to know more about Lazaro!! As soon as he was described as 6’5 and built like a weapon, I was hooked, so I am really looking forward to his book too!! Fingers crossed he gets one!
🌶️Enemies to Lovers
💀Revenge
🖤Mafia
Unholy union by Lana Sinclair had everything that I love in a dark romance book! Mafia, arranged marriage, enemies to lovers, age gap. There wasn’t a trope that I didn’t love in this entire book!
We start off with an arranged marriage between two rival mafia families: Sabrina Corsini and Cato Valente. Sabrina and Cato both go into the marriage unwillingly and not happy to be marrying a rival. Cato is very much our grumpy MMC, he is not happy to be pushed into this marriage, but as the heir to the Valente mafia, he is pretty much told he has to do this by his father, the Don. Sabrina is also upset, as she’s pulled into her father‘s office and told that she has to marry the man whose family murdered her brother. These families have been at war for years and this marriage is going to cause peace for the mafia and end a lot of the bloodshed.
Sabrina pushes Cato at every turn, but he is also unwilling to love her and tells her that no matter what it is never going to be a love match and this is only going to be a marriage of convenience. While it might seem like the crux of this book is the romance between the FMC and the MMC, there is actually way more at work here between the two rival families. Even though the marriage was supposed to end the war, it is actually a trick, and Cato‘s family is still planning on overruling Sabrina’s. In a lot of romance books, the plot is in the background and the romance takes center stage, however, in Unholy Union, there was an equal amount of romance, and let me tell you some of the spicy scenes were off the charts, but there’s also a fantastic plot here.
I’m not surprised many times by books, but I was absolutely floored at the twist that comes in the end of the book, obviously I will not spoil anything but for a seasoned reader like me to be shocked is a pretty big deal. You’re going to love this book if you’re looking for something that is dark romance, but still has a really interesting plot. It seems like the book end is possibly setting up for Cato‘s brother to be the next MMC in the series and I do like him however, I am dying to know more about Lazaro!! As soon as he was described as 6’5 and built like a weapon, I was hooked, so I am really looking forward to his book too!! Fingers crossed he gets one!
August 26, 2025
✨️✨️ ARC Review ✨️✨️
From the opening chapter, Lana Sinclair immerses the reader in a world of danger, betrayal and forbidden desire. The scene-setting is sharp and vivid, pulling you straight into the simmering tension between two families at war.
Sabrina is a captivating heroine. Outwardly she plays the part of the dutiful mafia princess, quiet and compliant, but beneath the surface burns a woman with fierce determination, her own dreams and a will that refuses to bend. She is no pawn, and it is that hidden fire which makes her such a compelling character. The wedding night is a perfect example of how her strength rises beneath the facade.
Cato is introduced as the perfect embodiment of a ruthless heir: cold, disciplined and merciless. Yet as the story unfolds it becomes clear that his role is not as fixed as it first appears. Through his encounters with Sabrina he begins to question the life he was born to inherit. Their relationship develops as a taut, slow-burning battle of wills, full of mistrust yet laced with undeniable attraction. What begins as “she belongs to me so no one will touch her” slowly transforms into “I want to protect her because I love her” and not simply because he sees her as a possession.
What elevates the novel is the way it explores power and vulnerability side by side. Both Sabrina and Cato face betrayal from those closest to them, yet instead of being broken they emerge stronger and more united. It is a story about survival in a world where love is treated as weakness, and at the same time a testament to how love can be the greatest strength of all.
Alongside the central pairing, there are tantalising glimpses of other characters whose stories have yet to be told. Tessa and Cassius in particular carry a charge of tension that promises much for future instalments.
For readers who enjoy enemies-to-lovers romances within a dark and dangerous mafia setting, Unholy Union delivers a compelling mix of passion, peril and power.
From the opening chapter, Lana Sinclair immerses the reader in a world of danger, betrayal and forbidden desire. The scene-setting is sharp and vivid, pulling you straight into the simmering tension between two families at war.
Sabrina is a captivating heroine. Outwardly she plays the part of the dutiful mafia princess, quiet and compliant, but beneath the surface burns a woman with fierce determination, her own dreams and a will that refuses to bend. She is no pawn, and it is that hidden fire which makes her such a compelling character. The wedding night is a perfect example of how her strength rises beneath the facade.
Cato is introduced as the perfect embodiment of a ruthless heir: cold, disciplined and merciless. Yet as the story unfolds it becomes clear that his role is not as fixed as it first appears. Through his encounters with Sabrina he begins to question the life he was born to inherit. Their relationship develops as a taut, slow-burning battle of wills, full of mistrust yet laced with undeniable attraction. What begins as “she belongs to me so no one will touch her” slowly transforms into “I want to protect her because I love her” and not simply because he sees her as a possession.
What elevates the novel is the way it explores power and vulnerability side by side. Both Sabrina and Cato face betrayal from those closest to them, yet instead of being broken they emerge stronger and more united. It is a story about survival in a world where love is treated as weakness, and at the same time a testament to how love can be the greatest strength of all.
Alongside the central pairing, there are tantalising glimpses of other characters whose stories have yet to be told. Tessa and Cassius in particular carry a charge of tension that promises much for future instalments.
For readers who enjoy enemies-to-lovers romances within a dark and dangerous mafia setting, Unholy Union delivers a compelling mix of passion, peril and power.
August 27, 2025
Unholy Union by Lana Sinclair is book 1 of The Valente Legacy series. This is a dark mafia enemies to lovers romance following Cato Valente and Sabrina Corsini 🚩There are some dark themes that can be triggering so please check out the content warning before you dive in 🚩
Main Characters ✨
💍 Sabrina, our fiesty and sassy FMC, is a mafia princess through and through. After losing her mother to cancer at a young age leaving her and her older brother Leo to be raised by her father Don Corsini, leader of the Corsini Family, she was raised spoiled and as daddy’s little girl. Her whole life she taught to hate the Valente family, so to say she is surprised that her father has signed an agreement for an arranged marriage with the heir of the Valente family Cato…that would be a major understatement. But just because she is marrying a man she has hated her whole life despite her objections, it won’t stop her from making his life extremely difficult.
🖤 Cato, our morally black MMC, is feared by many and lusted after by many more. He is known as the most gorgeous eligible bachelor and everyone knows he’s the heir of the Valente family. He agrees that it’s time to put the long time feud with the Corsini family to rest and agrees to marry Don Corsinis daughter out of good faith in letting the feud go. He knows this is business and no love is needed to make it work….so why is she getting under his skin?!
My thoughts 💭
🥀I LOVE DARK MAFIA ROMANCE!!! It genuinely makes my heart happy and this book is no exception…it is sooo good. I seriously finished this in less than 24 hours, the character development, the world building, the banter!!! It’s all 5 ⭐️’s. The hate these two characters had for each other was written so well, at one point I hated them individually also 🤣 and the plot twist WOW…..so great. I loved everything about this book and I cannot wait to find out what Cato’s brother is up to in the next book!!!
✨ I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Main Characters ✨
💍 Sabrina, our fiesty and sassy FMC, is a mafia princess through and through. After losing her mother to cancer at a young age leaving her and her older brother Leo to be raised by her father Don Corsini, leader of the Corsini Family, she was raised spoiled and as daddy’s little girl. Her whole life she taught to hate the Valente family, so to say she is surprised that her father has signed an agreement for an arranged marriage with the heir of the Valente family Cato…that would be a major understatement. But just because she is marrying a man she has hated her whole life despite her objections, it won’t stop her from making his life extremely difficult.
🖤 Cato, our morally black MMC, is feared by many and lusted after by many more. He is known as the most gorgeous eligible bachelor and everyone knows he’s the heir of the Valente family. He agrees that it’s time to put the long time feud with the Corsini family to rest and agrees to marry Don Corsinis daughter out of good faith in letting the feud go. He knows this is business and no love is needed to make it work….so why is she getting under his skin?!
My thoughts 💭
🥀I LOVE DARK MAFIA ROMANCE!!! It genuinely makes my heart happy and this book is no exception…it is sooo good. I seriously finished this in less than 24 hours, the character development, the world building, the banter!!! It’s all 5 ⭐️’s. The hate these two characters had for each other was written so well, at one point I hated them individually also 🤣 and the plot twist WOW…..so great. I loved everything about this book and I cannot wait to find out what Cato’s brother is up to in the next book!!!
✨ I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 31, 2025
wow what a page turner. i loved this book. a new author for me this was a wonderfully detailed, well written story featuring sabrina a mafia princess forced to marry her enemy cato whom she's been taught to hate esp for his family killing her beloved brother. cato is willing to do his duty and marry her for the good of his family but he will never trust her. he will control her every move, watch everything he does, and break her if she tries to make any moves against him. but he doesn't count on sabrina's determination, fierceness, dislike and stubborn refusal to conform to what he wants. she is determined to burn his family down from the inside out in revenge for her brother. but they both find out they have a hot chemistry together despite both hating each other. slowly as small things come up between them cato starts to desire getting to know this unique girl he's married and sabrina starts realizing that he's not all she thought he was either. but his family is still plotting against hers to destroy it despite the peace treaty their marriage was to seal. what happens when sabrina finds out what cato has been planning behind her back the entire marriage? and who is out to kill her, his father? a rival family? someone wants her hurt or dead and cato is determined that no one but him will hurt his new bride. little by little they start to fall for the other but enemies are plotting, trust is in limited supply and each step forward together is followed by two steps backwards, can they ever find their way to each other and admit they care for each other? will they find who is trying to hurt sabrina before its too late? plots twists, amazing characters, feisty, stubborn, determined, fierce, strong, and no back down husband and wife making an exciting and thrilling story with a few tender and sweet moments in their journey that makes u just want them to stop fighting and find their way together. a must read in my opinion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2025
It's been a while since I read a mafia romance, and I forgot just how much I'm obsessed with them, especially when they're an arranged marriage/forced proximity kinda romance, you know I eat that shit up. I was hooked from the start and read it in less than 24 hours.
We have a classic mafia setup - two rival family's have been at war for years, and a truce is needed. What better way to ease the tension than by marrying off the heir of one family, Cato, to the mafia princess of the other family, Sabrina. Her plan is to make Cato pay for the death of her brother, his plan is to use Sabrina to take over the Corsini empire; what could possibly go wrong?
I didn't like Cato in the beginning. Like Sabrina, I thought he was an aggressive alpha male who needed to be kicked down a step or two, but then he began to see the toxic influence of his father, who wanted Sabrina controlled and silenced, and Cato wasn't about that, he liked her feisty attitude and didn't want to contain it. As their intimacy unfolded, Sabrina started to let her guard down as trust built between them, but she didn't stop bringing the banter.
The third act twist completely threw me- I certainly wasn't expecting it and tbh it didn't really make sense to me if you think about it in the long run, but I don't want to say much as it'll be a spoiler.
This was a joy to read, and the first in what I hope to be a series that will cover the other siblings as well, I am desperate for the next book, but even more so for a potential third book.
Thank you to the author and Grey's Promotions for an ARC of this book.
We have a classic mafia setup - two rival family's have been at war for years, and a truce is needed. What better way to ease the tension than by marrying off the heir of one family, Cato, to the mafia princess of the other family, Sabrina. Her plan is to make Cato pay for the death of her brother, his plan is to use Sabrina to take over the Corsini empire; what could possibly go wrong?
I didn't like Cato in the beginning. Like Sabrina, I thought he was an aggressive alpha male who needed to be kicked down a step or two, but then he began to see the toxic influence of his father, who wanted Sabrina controlled and silenced, and Cato wasn't about that, he liked her feisty attitude and didn't want to contain it. As their intimacy unfolded, Sabrina started to let her guard down as trust built between them, but she didn't stop bringing the banter.
The third act twist completely threw me- I certainly wasn't expecting it and tbh it didn't really make sense to me if you think about it in the long run, but I don't want to say much as it'll be a spoiler.
This was a joy to read, and the first in what I hope to be a series that will cover the other siblings as well, I am desperate for the next book, but even more so for a potential third book.
Thank you to the author and Grey's Promotions for an ARC of this book.
August 22, 2025
Unholy Union by Lana Sinclair is a fantastic example of a straightforward arranged marriage, mafia romance. The writing is strong, the characters are compelling, and the spice is off the charts. It starts early and doesn't let up, creating a truly spicy read.
While the plot has some predictable elements, it's still thoroughly enjoyable and has enough suspense to keep you guessing right up until (at least for me) theories are proven correct. The real highlight is the dynamic between the main characters, Sabrina and Cato. Their relationship isn't just about rival families; it’s a genuine enemies-to-lovers story. Sabrina, far from a delicate mafia princess, is a firecracker who refuses to take anything from Cato—at one point, she even attempts to kill her own betrothed!
This profound hate between their families fuels a fiery chemistry that is impossible to ignore. Cato, with his "I hate her but only I can torment her" attitude, and Sabrina's fierce resistance, make for some captivating interactions. The tension is palpable, and the spicy scenes are an absolute knockout because of it. As the story progresses, their intense animosity slowly gives way to genuine affection, stoking the flames of their romance even higher.
The plot moves at a substantial pace, with a great mix of action and spice, along with some strong twists that reveal the true source of their families' issues. While the book doesn't end on a cliffhanger, it does leave some questions from side characters unanswered, which sets up a future book nicely. Overall, it’s a satisfying read that concludes with a well-earned "Happily For Now."
While the plot has some predictable elements, it's still thoroughly enjoyable and has enough suspense to keep you guessing right up until (at least for me) theories are proven correct. The real highlight is the dynamic between the main characters, Sabrina and Cato. Their relationship isn't just about rival families; it’s a genuine enemies-to-lovers story. Sabrina, far from a delicate mafia princess, is a firecracker who refuses to take anything from Cato—at one point, she even attempts to kill her own betrothed!
This profound hate between their families fuels a fiery chemistry that is impossible to ignore. Cato, with his "I hate her but only I can torment her" attitude, and Sabrina's fierce resistance, make for some captivating interactions. The tension is palpable, and the spicy scenes are an absolute knockout because of it. As the story progresses, their intense animosity slowly gives way to genuine affection, stoking the flames of their romance even higher.
The plot moves at a substantial pace, with a great mix of action and spice, along with some strong twists that reveal the true source of their families' issues. While the book doesn't end on a cliffhanger, it does leave some questions from side characters unanswered, which sets up a future book nicely. Overall, it’s a satisfying read that concludes with a well-earned "Happily For Now."
September 4, 2025
Unholy Union promised everything I usually love in a mafia romance—an arranged marriage, a ruthless heir, forbidden fire, and a clash between families—but the execution left me underwhelmed.
At its core, this is an arranged marriage mafia story where Sabrina is forced together with Cato Valente as a peace offering in a mafia war. The setup has all the tension of enemies pressed into a gilded cage, trapped inside a sacred line neither one chose. There’s temptation, betrayal, and the sense of being someone’s obedient wife or pretty plaything. Yet the delivery felt repetitive.
I often felt like the book didn’t trust the reader, circling back to the same points again and again. That unyielding grip doesn’t build tension; it drains it. For long stretches, I couldn’t care less about the characters or their forbidden love, and I debated DNFing the book. Still, curiosity about the bloodthirsty rivals and who was really behind the larger plot kept me reading. I thought I knew the answer, but I was wrong, and I’ll admit the reveal surprised me.
The true highlight for me was Sabrina. She isn’t just a pet trapped inside a marriage mafia trope; she refuses to bow to her father’s choices or to Cato’s dominance. Every time Cato tried to assert himself as the ruthless heir, she met him head-on. She gave as much as she got, which made their enemies-to-lovers dynamic far more compelling than the overall story.
In the end, Unholy Union had the pieces for a powerful mafia romance—family duty, forbidden fire, and enemies forced together—but for me, it stayed an average read. Sabrina’s fight made me glad I stuck it out, even if the story itself didn’t leave me in awe.
At its core, this is an arranged marriage mafia story where Sabrina is forced together with Cato Valente as a peace offering in a mafia war. The setup has all the tension of enemies pressed into a gilded cage, trapped inside a sacred line neither one chose. There’s temptation, betrayal, and the sense of being someone’s obedient wife or pretty plaything. Yet the delivery felt repetitive.
I often felt like the book didn’t trust the reader, circling back to the same points again and again. That unyielding grip doesn’t build tension; it drains it. For long stretches, I couldn’t care less about the characters or their forbidden love, and I debated DNFing the book. Still, curiosity about the bloodthirsty rivals and who was really behind the larger plot kept me reading. I thought I knew the answer, but I was wrong, and I’ll admit the reveal surprised me.
The true highlight for me was Sabrina. She isn’t just a pet trapped inside a marriage mafia trope; she refuses to bow to her father’s choices or to Cato’s dominance. Every time Cato tried to assert himself as the ruthless heir, she met him head-on. She gave as much as she got, which made their enemies-to-lovers dynamic far more compelling than the overall story.
In the end, Unholy Union had the pieces for a powerful mafia romance—family duty, forbidden fire, and enemies forced together—but for me, it stayed an average read. Sabrina’s fight made me glad I stuck it out, even if the story itself didn’t leave me in awe.
September 10, 2025
I found this book through @the_endlesstbr and was instantly drawn to it. This is Lana Sinclair’s debut, and it’s an incredible start to The Valente Legacy series.
The story begins with a peace treaty between the Valente and Corsini families, sworn enemies locked in a bloody feud. The treaty demands a marriage. Cato Valente must marry Sabrina Corsini, and she’s expected to provide him with heirs within the first year. Cato has been promised a bride who is beautiful, educated, graceful, and obedient. What he gets instead is Sabrina—a woman who refuses to be silenced, controlled, or claimed.
"You'll get your wife, Cato. But I won't be easy. I won't be quiet or obedient. And I'll never truly be yours."
Cato is the tall, dark, dangerous heir, raised to see women as ornaments, not equals. Sabrina is a mafia princess raised in love but marked by tragedy. She’s lost her mother, then her brother, and now she’s forced into marriage with the son of the family that killed him. The hatred between them is personal, bitter, and impossible to ignore.
Sabrina dreams of love and freedom. Cato refuses to believe in either. Their marriage is a battlefield, with fights that are both physical and emotional. The chemistry between them is undeniable, but it’s laced with anger, betrayal, and fire.
The tension is addictive, the angst unrelenting, and the twist left me stunned. This book delivered everything I wanted in a mafia romance. I’m impatiently waiting for Cassian and Tessa’s story.
Tropes include enemies-to-lovers, arranged marriage, forced proximity, rival mafia families, possessive MMC, inexperienced FMC, and romantic suspense.
The story begins with a peace treaty between the Valente and Corsini families, sworn enemies locked in a bloody feud. The treaty demands a marriage. Cato Valente must marry Sabrina Corsini, and she’s expected to provide him with heirs within the first year. Cato has been promised a bride who is beautiful, educated, graceful, and obedient. What he gets instead is Sabrina—a woman who refuses to be silenced, controlled, or claimed.
"You'll get your wife, Cato. But I won't be easy. I won't be quiet or obedient. And I'll never truly be yours."
Cato is the tall, dark, dangerous heir, raised to see women as ornaments, not equals. Sabrina is a mafia princess raised in love but marked by tragedy. She’s lost her mother, then her brother, and now she’s forced into marriage with the son of the family that killed him. The hatred between them is personal, bitter, and impossible to ignore.
Sabrina dreams of love and freedom. Cato refuses to believe in either. Their marriage is a battlefield, with fights that are both physical and emotional. The chemistry between them is undeniable, but it’s laced with anger, betrayal, and fire.
The tension is addictive, the angst unrelenting, and the twist left me stunned. This book delivered everything I wanted in a mafia romance. I’m impatiently waiting for Cassian and Tessa’s story.
Tropes include enemies-to-lovers, arranged marriage, forced proximity, rival mafia families, possessive MMC, inexperienced FMC, and romantic suspense.
September 15, 2025
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️. 5
First off, I can't believe this is Lana Sinclair's debut. It was written so well and fantastic dark Mafia romance. And let me tell you, she got me with that fantastic twist. I would have never guessed that outcome.
This is Arranged Mafia Marriage, Enemies To Lovers and Light Bondage.
I love a good Mafia romance and this was really good. Had all the suspense, action, drama and super hot spice.
Cato and Sabrina were really enemies and were it for most of the story. I really couldn't see them move past the issue.
The Valente's and Corsini's are life long enemies and loved ones have been lost in this war. Only way to move forward is to get their children married for peace.
Cato will marry her and take over her dad's business secretly. Sabrina will marry him and get revenge for her brothers murder.
Cato is cold and ruthless, just how he has been groomed to be. He is powerful and a man in control until her.
Sabrina is the perfect Mafia daughter raised for this world. She is fierce, sassy ad so broken.
They both start off on so much hate but through their fight and their sizzling chemistry they both discover love. I loved the character growth for both of them. How he realised he doesn't want to be cold and heartless like his father. How she saw him beyond the hard shell he shows the world. There is times where you will cry with her and think, these 2 won't make it.
Gosh the spice was absolutely perfect, had me all heated up with every word.
This truly was entertaining and wonderful dark mafia romance.
I hope we get his brothers story next.
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️. 5
First off, I can't believe this is Lana Sinclair's debut. It was written so well and fantastic dark Mafia romance. And let me tell you, she got me with that fantastic twist. I would have never guessed that outcome.
This is Arranged Mafia Marriage, Enemies To Lovers and Light Bondage.
I love a good Mafia romance and this was really good. Had all the suspense, action, drama and super hot spice.
Cato and Sabrina were really enemies and were it for most of the story. I really couldn't see them move past the issue.
The Valente's and Corsini's are life long enemies and loved ones have been lost in this war. Only way to move forward is to get their children married for peace.
Cato will marry her and take over her dad's business secretly. Sabrina will marry him and get revenge for her brothers murder.
Cato is cold and ruthless, just how he has been groomed to be. He is powerful and a man in control until her.
Sabrina is the perfect Mafia daughter raised for this world. She is fierce, sassy ad so broken.
They both start off on so much hate but through their fight and their sizzling chemistry they both discover love. I loved the character growth for both of them. How he realised he doesn't want to be cold and heartless like his father. How she saw him beyond the hard shell he shows the world. There is times where you will cry with her and think, these 2 won't make it.
Gosh the spice was absolutely perfect, had me all heated up with every word.
This truly was entertaining and wonderful dark mafia romance.
I hope we get his brothers story next.
August 19, 2025
** 5 stars **
Unholy Union is a very addictive enemies to lovers romance. It is very well-written and is my first from this author.
Sabrina is a very strong woman with a sassy personality. Her father has arranged for her to marry Cato, the oldest son from a rival family. Sabrina is shocked and doesn't want to marry him since his family killed her brother. These families hate each other and have been rivals for many years.
Cato's father has always taught him how to rule but never how to love. He has never seen a woman like Sabrina with her strong personality. She doesn't cower to his every need. He tells her to stay home and she goes out with her friends. Their banter was so amusing. Sabrina doesn't back down and stays true to who she is. When her life is threatened Cato steps up and takes care of her himself even when his father disapproves.
I love how Cato and Sabrina were toward each other. They prove that even though you come from a rival family you can still fall in love. Their story was filled with emotion, suspense, and secrets. And the twist at the end was amazing. Never saw it coming which I totally enjoyed. Highly recommend this one. I look forward to more from this author.
Reasons you will love this story:
* Arranged marriage
* Enemies to lovers
* Mafia romance
* Rival families
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy for an honest review.
Unholy Union is a very addictive enemies to lovers romance. It is very well-written and is my first from this author.
Sabrina is a very strong woman with a sassy personality. Her father has arranged for her to marry Cato, the oldest son from a rival family. Sabrina is shocked and doesn't want to marry him since his family killed her brother. These families hate each other and have been rivals for many years.
Cato's father has always taught him how to rule but never how to love. He has never seen a woman like Sabrina with her strong personality. She doesn't cower to his every need. He tells her to stay home and she goes out with her friends. Their banter was so amusing. Sabrina doesn't back down and stays true to who she is. When her life is threatened Cato steps up and takes care of her himself even when his father disapproves.
I love how Cato and Sabrina were toward each other. They prove that even though you come from a rival family you can still fall in love. Their story was filled with emotion, suspense, and secrets. And the twist at the end was amazing. Never saw it coming which I totally enjoyed. Highly recommend this one. I look forward to more from this author.
Reasons you will love this story:
* Arranged marriage
* Enemies to lovers
* Mafia romance
* Rival families
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy for an honest review.
August 20, 2025
ARC Review Thank you to Lana and Grey Promotions.
Sabrina is exactly the kind of woman you expect in dark romance: fierce, smart, and impossible to break. Forced into marriage to end a long-standing blood feud, she refuses to play the docile wife and instead plots her revenge. Her inner strength and sharp tongue make her an engaging narrator, even as the line between hate and desire begins to blur.
Cato Valente, the so-called monster and mafia heir, is dark, domineering, and dangerously magnetic. He’s not kind, but Sinclair doesn’t write him to be. What makes Cato fascinating is not his cruelty—but the complexity underneath it and the pull he has on
Their chemistry? Electric. This is slow-burn in the sense of emotional thawing, but physically, it’s explosive. Expect possessive tension, heated standoffs, and a constant push-pull that toes the line between love and war. Sinclair doesn't shy away from the darker themes of control, vengeance, and survival.
What to expect:
⚠️ Trigger warnings: violence, emotional manipulation, and non-consensual themes (always check content warnings if sensitive)
Final Thoughts:
Unholy Union delivers exactly what a dark mafia romance should: morally gray characters, sizzling tension, and high emotional stakes. If you're a fan of twisted love stories where power, pain, and passion collide, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
Sabrina is exactly the kind of woman you expect in dark romance: fierce, smart, and impossible to break. Forced into marriage to end a long-standing blood feud, she refuses to play the docile wife and instead plots her revenge. Her inner strength and sharp tongue make her an engaging narrator, even as the line between hate and desire begins to blur.
Cato Valente, the so-called monster and mafia heir, is dark, domineering, and dangerously magnetic. He’s not kind, but Sinclair doesn’t write him to be. What makes Cato fascinating is not his cruelty—but the complexity underneath it and the pull he has on
Their chemistry? Electric. This is slow-burn in the sense of emotional thawing, but physically, it’s explosive. Expect possessive tension, heated standoffs, and a constant push-pull that toes the line between love and war. Sinclair doesn't shy away from the darker themes of control, vengeance, and survival.
What to expect:
⚠️ Trigger warnings: violence, emotional manipulation, and non-consensual themes (always check content warnings if sensitive)
Final Thoughts:
Unholy Union delivers exactly what a dark mafia romance should: morally gray characters, sizzling tension, and high emotional stakes. If you're a fan of twisted love stories where power, pain, and passion collide, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
August 26, 2025
I literally have no words after reading this book and that’s a fantastic thing! I truly went through a rollercoaster of emotions from start to finish 🙂↕️ and I can’t wait to get a physical copy to annotate it !!!!!
I have always been a fan of mafia romances and this one has become one of my all time favorite ones! The angst, the push and pull from both Cato and Sabrina are to die for 🔥 and don’t get me started on their steamy scenes bc those were off the charts! The way these two are complete opposites (according to each other) but they are more similar than they think! These two really had me at the edge of my seat bc I didn’t know what was going to happen next. The twist and turns really made this book so much better and I am absolutely in love with their relationship.
Yes, it’s an arranged marriage but that’s just how it works in their social circles. Sabrina is the daughter of the Corsini family and engaged to Cato Valente, the heir to the Valente family. These two families have been feuding for years and both dons believe this is the way to ensure some peace between both families. I highly recommend reading this book if you love arranged mafia romances, family feuds, two people who complement one another and life in NYC ! I can’t wait to read the next novel in the series 🙂↕️😉
Rating: 1000000/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
I have always been a fan of mafia romances and this one has become one of my all time favorite ones! The angst, the push and pull from both Cato and Sabrina are to die for 🔥 and don’t get me started on their steamy scenes bc those were off the charts! The way these two are complete opposites (according to each other) but they are more similar than they think! These two really had me at the edge of my seat bc I didn’t know what was going to happen next. The twist and turns really made this book so much better and I am absolutely in love with their relationship.
Yes, it’s an arranged marriage but that’s just how it works in their social circles. Sabrina is the daughter of the Corsini family and engaged to Cato Valente, the heir to the Valente family. These two families have been feuding for years and both dons believe this is the way to ensure some peace between both families. I highly recommend reading this book if you love arranged mafia romances, family feuds, two people who complement one another and life in NYC ! I can’t wait to read the next novel in the series 🙂↕️😉
Rating: 1000000/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
August 11, 2025
✨TROPES✨
Forced Proximity
Enemies to Lovers
Mafia Romance
✨ARC REVIEW ✨
I loved, loved, loved this book! Sure kept me turning the pages. I’m OBSESSED with mafia stories and this one was PERFECT! If I can give this book 10 stars I would. This was my first Lana Sinclair book and I will definitely continue to read more.
Two very powerful families the Corsini’s and the Valente’s at war for many years. To end the war and feud the two Don’s decide to marry their children Sabrina Corsini the only daughter of the Corsini Family and Cato Valente the heir to the Valente empire. They hate each other but go through with the wedding for their families. The chemistry and attraction between them is undeniable. I love how stubborn and rebellious Sabrina is. I also loved how Cato always protected Sabrina despite them hating each other.
WOW I never saw that plot twist coming!! I loved that they got their HEA despite everything they went through. I can’t wait for book 2. I really recommend this book!!!!
This ARC was given to me in exchange of my honest review!!
✨Fav Book Quotes✨
“Oh and, principessa? If you ever try to kill me again, make sure I don’t enjoy it.”
“You act like you hate me. But you come like you don’t.”
Forced Proximity
Enemies to Lovers
Mafia Romance
✨ARC REVIEW ✨
I loved, loved, loved this book! Sure kept me turning the pages. I’m OBSESSED with mafia stories and this one was PERFECT! If I can give this book 10 stars I would. This was my first Lana Sinclair book and I will definitely continue to read more.
Two very powerful families the Corsini’s and the Valente’s at war for many years. To end the war and feud the two Don’s decide to marry their children Sabrina Corsini the only daughter of the Corsini Family and Cato Valente the heir to the Valente empire. They hate each other but go through with the wedding for their families. The chemistry and attraction between them is undeniable. I love how stubborn and rebellious Sabrina is. I also loved how Cato always protected Sabrina despite them hating each other.
WOW I never saw that plot twist coming!! I loved that they got their HEA despite everything they went through. I can’t wait for book 2. I really recommend this book!!!!
This ARC was given to me in exchange of my honest review!!
✨Fav Book Quotes✨
“Oh and, principessa? If you ever try to kill me again, make sure I don’t enjoy it.”
“You act like you hate me. But you come like you don’t.”
August 16, 2025
Unholy Union was such a ride! This is one of those books that dives straight into the enemies-to-lovers/mafia arranged marriage trope, and honestly, I loved how fast it hooked me.
Sabrina really carried the story for me. She’s fiery, unapologetic, and refuses to bend, but what I liked most were the softer moments we get to see. Those glimpses of vulnerability made her feel more real and relatable, like she wasn’t just written to be a “strong heroine” but an actual person.
Cato, on the other hand… whew. He tested my patience . There were moments I was frustrated with him and wasn’t sure if I’d ever get on board, but over time I started to understand his character more. The banter between him and Sabrina kept things sharp and entertaining, which definitely helped balance out his coldness.
And the twist at the end? Yeah, I did not see that coming. It completely surprised me and made the ending hit harder.
Overall, this was a really solid mafia romance—fast-paced, tense, and filled with sparks. If you like arranged marriage, power struggles, and heroine who don’t take crap from anyone, this will be right up your alley.
Huge thanks to Lana Sinclair and Grey’s Promotion for the ARC
Sabrina really carried the story for me. She’s fiery, unapologetic, and refuses to bend, but what I liked most were the softer moments we get to see. Those glimpses of vulnerability made her feel more real and relatable, like she wasn’t just written to be a “strong heroine” but an actual person.
Cato, on the other hand… whew. He tested my patience . There were moments I was frustrated with him and wasn’t sure if I’d ever get on board, but over time I started to understand his character more. The banter between him and Sabrina kept things sharp and entertaining, which definitely helped balance out his coldness.
And the twist at the end? Yeah, I did not see that coming. It completely surprised me and made the ending hit harder.
Overall, this was a really solid mafia romance—fast-paced, tense, and filled with sparks. If you like arranged marriage, power struggles, and heroine who don’t take crap from anyone, this will be right up your alley.
Huge thanks to Lana Sinclair and Grey’s Promotion for the ARC
August 21, 2025
A dark mafia, enemies to lovers' romance with an arranged marriage theme as only child Sabrina Corsini finds herself married off by her father to appease his rival Cato Valente. If Cato expected a good, obedient mafia wife who would do what she was told and produce the requisite heir that’s the last thing he got. There was so much to Sabrina than being a meek and mild wife, she has plans of her own, the downfall of Cato Valente.
The Valente Legacy is a brand-new dark mafia romance series of interconnected standalones, sizzling with spice, action drama, and suspense you could possibly want and Unholy Union, the first book was wickedly decadent in a dark way. I loved that the romance between Sabrina and Cato was allowed to evolve gradually without the usual innocent bride developing a severe case of instalove for her big, bad husband the first time he kisses her scenario. They were enemies right from the start with Sabrina plotting just how long to become a widow which led to some wicked sparring and dialogue between them. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was the hero’s name. Sorry and perhaps I’m showing my age here but for me the name Cato will forever leave me expecting Inspector Clouseau to leap out!
The Valente Legacy is a brand-new dark mafia romance series of interconnected standalones, sizzling with spice, action drama, and suspense you could possibly want and Unholy Union, the first book was wickedly decadent in a dark way. I loved that the romance between Sabrina and Cato was allowed to evolve gradually without the usual innocent bride developing a severe case of instalove for her big, bad husband the first time he kisses her scenario. They were enemies right from the start with Sabrina plotting just how long to become a widow which led to some wicked sparring and dialogue between them. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was the hero’s name. Sorry and perhaps I’m showing my age here but for me the name Cato will forever leave me expecting Inspector Clouseau to leap out!
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