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Lords of New York

The Mobster's Dancer

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Gia

I’m a walking cliché, in love with my best friend. Except my best friend also happens to be my brother-in-law’s charismatic younger sibling. Dante could seduce the habit off a nun, but despite spending nearly all our free time together, he’s never once turned that charm on me. I tell myself I don’t want him to, that I’m devoted to my ballet career. I’ve worked my entire life to become a prima ballerina; I can’t risk it for something as fickle as love, even if Dante wanted me the way I desire him. But after a drunken night brings us closer than ever, my carefully crafted defenses start to crumble. And when a devoted fan turns dangerous, it’s Dante I run to for help, it’s in his arms where I seek refuge. Now his embrace feels different, and I’m starting to wonder if I wasn’t the only one hiding deeper feelings under the guise of friendship.

Dante

Gia Marino is mine. She just doesn’t know it yet. From the moment I first laid eyes on her, I knew she was it for me. For months, I’ve been patient, carefully maneuvering Gia right where I want her, where she in my arms. Now that I have her, I’m not letting go. I’m the Rossi family negotiator, the son with the silver tongue. I always get what I want, and what I want is Gia. Anyone who tries to get in the way of that will soon regret it. So when someone unknown threatens the life I’ve so carefully crafted for Gia and me, it’s not a question of what I’ll do to them or how far they can run before I catch them. It’s only a matter of when I catch them and how many breaths I let them take after I do. Because where Gia is concerned, there is nothing I won’t do to protect her. Mia passerotta. Mia vita.

My little bird.

My life.

Mine.

Lords of New York is an unputdownable, highly addictive series about four powerful organized crime families. Each book is a standalone, guaranteed safe, HEA, high heat, virgin heroines, and the powerful men they captivate. Cassi

Lords of New York
Bride for the Mobster
The Mobster's Secret
The Mobster's Dancer
Handling His Chaos
Resisting the Mobster
Hacking the Mob
The Mobster's Promise
Heart of the Mobster


Villians of New York is a highly addictive, unputdownable series featuring the Bratva and their unique stories. Each is a standalone, that compliments the other if you choose to read in order. All Guaranteed safe, high heat, morally gray heroes, and their virgin heroines. Enjoy! Cassi

Villians of New York Bratva
Pakhan's Forbidden Bride
The Bratva's Temptation
The Bratva's Secret
The Bratva's Obsession

125 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 3, 2026

27 people are currently reading
34 people want to read

About the author

Cassi Hart

217 books369 followers
Cassi lives to write brazen OTT, insta-love, short stories, about possessive alphas and the women they love. Stories that will leave you satisfied, and maybe blushing a little. Cassi loves pedicures, being pampered in any way possible, her darling golden Princess, amazing coffee, and traveling to anywhere warm.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
Profile Image for Sandra.
728 reviews
February 3, 2026
"I never spent my time thinking about another woman the way I do with you. I would k*ll for you, Gia Marino. I would burn the world for you or di3 trying, and doesn't that make me f*€¥ing insane?"~Dante🥀

"He is the man I want to stay with forever."~Gia🥀

Dante Rossi has his eyes on Gia Marino. Ever since his older brother Matteo married her older sister Sofia, 35yr old Dante has maintained his distance while waiting for his passerotta. His little sparrow. He wants her then he decided he wanted more than a one night stand with her. So he friend zoned himself.😂 For 3 months.

20yr old Gia is a ballet dancer, has traveled abroad to Europe, which is a little strange considering how strict the Marino parents are and how they treat their daughters. Luckily, *spoiler* they are not in this story.😅 And while away, Gia has thought of Dante, seeing him as more than a friend but will she do anything about her attraction to him? What if he doesn't want her in that way? When she returns home, seeing him, only makes her want him more, which leads to too much drinking, a chess game wager of her moving in with him, and keeping silent on having a stalker.💌🫢💌 Again, it's surprising that no one seems to say much about Gia moving in with Dante. In that regard, this book is different from the first 2 in the series.

While this is book 3, it can be read as a standalone. Ms Hart did bring in certain key points from the first 2 books into this one. The Rossi family is present as are Gia's sisters. I like Dante. He's very upfront with his feelings, he's over-protective, supportive of her and her dancing career, a little obsessed, he even put on an intentional show with his bedroom door being slightly open. And Gia,🚪🥵 that girl watched with enthusiasm.🤣🤣 All for a bath towel? Come on now. That was hilarious.That's one way to get out of the friend zone, Dante.😚😚🫦👅😭😭

It's a short book. However. The insta felt... too fast for me. Which is what insta means, true enough, but it read like the snap of your fingers. One second it's lust, the next it's love. I wanted a little more emotional development of 2 people who haven't been around each other much to start flirting with the possibilities of a friend becoming more. Hold back the fever and let them tease and wonder, like the door peek-a-boo, instead of gratification. Question. When will these couples start having adult conversations?🤔

There's drama. Family rally. World building. Gia, at times, got on my nerves with her telling Dante she wouldn't stop dancing for him or anyone. I understand that but... Dante never ever said anything in that regard. There's miscommunication. The stalker theme played out in the last 2 chapters or so, which again, Gia starts her arguments which leads to misunderstandings but she sure stopped at the door waiting for Dante to protect her from the baddie, didn't she? Girl, listen to your man. Stalking is a serious situation. B/c when the baddie shows up, who are you going to scream to for help.🙄 But she's 20, and I know not all 20yr olds act like this, but Gia did. That stalker issue got resolved quickly.👤 It would be a nice change if these older men would be with a woman who was a little bit older. Gia is nice, but other times, she's a brat. For me, she needed more maturity, more life experiences. I wanted her to be obsessed with Dante like he was with her. Show those emotions girl, be vocal. I still enjoyed the book. Dante more than made up for it.😆 HEA. Happy reading.*•>§<•*💖💖💖

🚩🚩Read the TWs. 18+ read.🚩🚩

💁🏼‍♀️🩰🤵Thank you to Ms Hart. The opinions shared here are my own.🤵🩰💁🏼‍♀️



Profile Image for Shalalah.
696 reviews3 followers
February 4, 2026
A Dangerous Devotion Wrapped in Grace and Steel

The Mobster’s Dancer is one of those stories that sneaks up on you—starting soft and familiar, then tightening its grip until you’re fully invested in every stolen glance and unspoken truth.

Gia is all discipline and devotion, a ballerina who’s sacrificed everything for her craft, while Dante lives in the shadows of power and violence, hiding ruthless instincts behind charm and patience. Their friends-to-lovers dynamic feels earned, built on years of quiet longing and careful restraint. When the line finally blurs, it’s less about a single moment and more about the release of everything they’ve been holding back.

What really stood out for me was the contrast: Gia’s elegance and vulnerability against Dante’s unwavering, almost feral protectiveness. He isn’t loud about his claim—but once he decides she’s his, the intensity is undeniable. The danger surrounding Gia adds tension without overpowering the romance, and Dante’s response to that threat makes it clear exactly where his priorities lie.

This novella delivers high emotion in a tight package—romantic, possessive, and just a little dark, with a satisfying HEA that fits the world Cassi Hart has built. If you enjoy mafia romance with devotion, protection, and a heroine who finds strength in being cherished rather than controlled, The Mobster’s Dancer is a compelling, addictive read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,299 reviews12 followers
February 3, 2026
A chess game sealed her fate.

Dante Rossi had seen the most beautiful woman in the world at his brother Matteo's wedding. He instantly fell in love with her.

Dante is the middle son who is the family negotiator and the one who sees that things get done when necessary. He learned to play chess at an early age trying to bond with his father, but he soon learned that was impossible. But chess taught him how to read and manipulate people, which is very important in negotiating for his family or now himself.

Gia Marino is the third of four daughters in her family. She's the daughter who has never really ever been seen. Before Dante, no one other than her sisters had ever looked beyond her smile to see the real her.

She's a ballerina who had dreamt about becoming a prima ballerina. Her dream had been realized, and she had recently returned from her first European tour.

Gia has seen how in love her two older sisters are with their husbands. She wants that for herself, but that's impossible. She fears Dante would ask or order her to give up ballet. Besides, she's a ballerina, and everyone knows that as you age, your body changes, but should a ballerina bear a child, her body changes forever, and they aren't good changes. No, love isn't for her until her career is over, and it's just beginning. But meeting Dante makes her question her theory about love.

She had been concerned about her sister's marriage to Matteo. She wanted Sofia to be not only safe but also loved, something she's not sure Matteo was even capable of doing. Then there had also been Elena's marriage to Roarke. Both sisters seemed to be very happy and are married to men who are very much in love with their wives.

Dante had planned on seducing Gia that evening before, as usual, walking away. But soon he's changed his mind: he wants her enmeshed in his life forever. Tonight might be the opening he needs.

Normally Gia never touches alcohol, but tonight she's had enough wine to be a bit tipsy. He decides to give her a ride home. On the way he decides to instead take her to his apartment. He knows her roommates are all ballerinas in the same ballet company. They're her competition, and it's not in their best interest to care for her.

Once at his place, she comments on how nice his apartment is and tells him about the weirdos she has to put up with on her daily subway ride. But when he offers to share it with her, she declines the offer. She wants to make it on her own. She's been saving her money and thinks she'll be able to afford her own place in a few months.

He offers her a bet: one game of chess. If he wins, she'll move in with him. She declines. After all, he's won every single time they've ever played, but she's feeling lucky tonight. Then he accuses her of being afraid to play against him. He knows she'll accept the challenge.

She's certain she can beat him tonight. He lets her win for a while before placing her in checkmate. Now he has her where he wants her.

As she's packing her things the next morning to move to Dante's penthouse, her stalker, who first contacted her on her European tour, has another letter and flowers delivered to her. She had thought that moving in with Dante should solve that problem. Too bad Dante accidentally saw one of the envelopes. But she destroyed it before he could find it. Problem solved, right?

I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Profile Image for Dee.
5,107 reviews58 followers
February 5, 2026
You might want to make sure to double check that you are buckled up, dangerous men, alpha’s personified, possessive, oh, gorgeous, brooding all the makings of a story consisting with three D’s (dark, delicious, and dirty) 😊. There will be suspense, betrayal, death, darkness, secrets reveled, violence, hope, forgiveness, and maybe even love along the way. Dante sexy as all get Rossi isn’t a man you want on your radar just as dangerous as his brother whom we met while at his brother’s wedding he met the women of his dreams but he is a man of danger, he can be ruthless on a good day, deadly every day, will take out anyone who goes after his family without hesitation, and this women shifts his world he knows she is his. Gia comes from a family of girls being number three she is rarely noticed her family don’t really know her, she dreamed of becoming a prima ballerina but coming home from Europe to see how in love her sisters were with their families, and she wonders if she will find that or someone who will see her. Gia notice Dante watches her like she is his last breath the magnetic pull is there but will he wait because she doesn’t want kids until her dance career is over, will she give him a chance or rethink her theory of dancing especially if he see her, but one bet later and she is moving in with him and her stalker well will he protect her, who is her stalker, where are the two of them headed, and can she find the happiness she dreams of with the man that makes her laugh?
Profile Image for J.p.
1,444 reviews4 followers
February 4, 2026
Gia and Dante have had an attraction for each other for months but Gia’s life is ballet therefore she doesn’t have time for love but that doesn’t stop her from wanting him. Dante realises Gias life is her dancing and rather than not have her in his life they become best friends although he too is harbouring feelings for her. They never act on their attraction until she gets unwanted attention. Mafia romance with likeable characters, drama and plenty of heat. Enjoyed catching up with previous characters too. Great read.
Profile Image for Nicole.
1,367 reviews25 followers
February 13, 2026
The Mobster's Dancer is the third book in Lords of New York Series. A full-length standalone romance with no cheating, no cliffhanger and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. A safe stalker Italian mafia romance. This Gia and Dante story which is told from a dual point of view. Captivating. Dangerous. Decadent. Compelling. Twisted. Dirty. Dark. Sinful. An unputdownable and absorbing addictive read. A prima ballerina finds protection in the arms of mafia negotiator when a stalker threatens her life. A wonderful written story with world building individuals and a twisty and fascinating storyline that captures the audience attention from the start and keeps you hooked and turning the pages.

Tropes:

🩰💃🧍‍♂️Ballerina x Bad Boy Story
👣🧍‍♂️Safe Stalker Romance
✔️Brother-in-law Brother Story
✔️Virgin Heroine Romance
💀💀Mafia Romance
✔️Contemporary Romance
☠️☠️Organized Crime Story
✔️Bodyguard Romance
👀👁😘💋Insta-Love Romance
✔️Friends-to-Lovers Romance
✔️Forbidden Romance
✔️Bad Boy Romance
👁👀Lust-at-First-Sight Romance
✔️Aged Gap Trope Romance
📖📔📑A Woman Short Story
✔️Taboo Romance
✔️Possessiveness, Obsession
🔥🔥Spice, Passion, Emotions
🔫🩸Danger, Violence, Action
✔️Tension, Drama, Secrets
✔️Insecurities, Friendship
♨️🪔🕯Slow Burn Romance
Gia Marino has worked her entire life to become to become a prima ballerina, she and can't risk it for something as fickle as love. Her sister have found the love of their life gotten married and are happy. She met Dante Rossi, who's the younger siblings of her brother-in-law at her sister's wedding. It was an instant connection between the two. Because Gia had always been invisible to everyone in her family; she was shocked that he even notice her. Gia is like an outcast in the family to the point where her parents never even took the time to go to one of her recital for support. Gia doesn't want love and marriage like her sisters because she saw what it does for other dancers and it was career ending. From the moment Dante saw Gia he knew that she was his but vowed to play the long game. The two became best friends.
Dante is the Rossi family's negotiator and is known as the son with the silver tongue. Gia Marino is mine she just doesn't know it yet. Dante was hook from the moment that he laid eyes on her. He knew she was it for him, his endgame. So for months he was patient, carefully maneuvering her right where he wanted her; where she belongs in his arms. Gia is unaware of his feelings towards her that it was reciprocated. However, after a drunken night brings them closer than ever, her carefully crafted defenses started to crumble giving into her feelings and kissed him. She lost the bet and had to move with him. There's a devoted fan who turned dangerous that is stalking her spending gifts and message.
Dante is unaware that someone was stalking his little bird. Gia had no choice but to run for help to him out of fear, into his arms for refuge. And once she opened up to him she noticed that his embrace felt different which makes her wonder if she wasn't the only one hiding deeper feelings under the guise of friendship. When Dante learned that someone had threatened the life that he had carefully curated for he and Gia it wasn't a question of what he'll do to them or how far they can run before he catch them. It's only a matter of when he catch them and now many breaths he would let them take after he do. Because where Gia is concerned, there's nothing that he won't do in order to protect her and there's nowhere that the perpetrator can hide where he doesn't find them. Because now that he has her, he wasn't planning on letting her go. His little bird. His life. His Mia passerotta. Mia vita. Gia as found the same thing that her sisters has and she doesn't have to give up her dreams to be happy. After Dante eliminated the threat the two was able to take their relationship to another level and man was hot.

I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.






1,551 reviews13 followers
February 4, 2026
Gia

I’m a walking cliché, in love with my best friend. Except my best friend also happens to be my brother-in-law’s charismatic younger sibling. Dante could seduce the habit off a nun, but despite spending nearly all our free time together, he’s never once turned that charm on me. I tell myself I don’t want him to, that I’m devoted to my ballet career. I’ve worked my entire life to become a prima ballerina; I can’t risk it for something as fickle as love, even if Dante wanted me the way I desire him. But after a drunken night brings us closer than ever, my carefully crafted defenses start to crumble. And when a devoted fan turns dangerous, it’s Dante I run to for help; it’s in his arms where I seek refuge. Now his embrace feels different, and I’m starting to wonder if I wasn’t the only one hiding deeper feelings under the guise of friendship.

Dante

Gia Marino is mine. She just doesn’t know it yet. From the moment I first laid eyes on her, I knew she was it for me. For months, I’ve been patient, carefully maneuvering Gia right where I want her, where she in my arms. Now that I have her, I’m not letting go. I’m the Rossi family negotiator, the son with the silver tongue. I always get what I want, and what I want is Gia. Anyone who tries to get in the way of that will soon regret it. So when someone unknown threatens the life I’ve so carefully crafted for Gia and me, it’s not a question of what I’ll do to them or how far they can run before I catch them. It’s only a matter of when I catch them and how many breaths I let them take after I do. Because where Gia is concerned, there is nothing I won’t do to protect her. Mia passerotta. Mia vita.

My little bird.

My life.

Mine.


This contemporary Italian mafia arranged marriage, insta love romance, is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is engulfed by darkness, danger, violence, and grit, and characters who are a dangerous, violent, morally gray alpha hero mobster who is exuding power/wealth, obsession/possessive, and his virgin heroine, who are both resilient, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with the mobster's dancer in this Italian mafia arranged marriage, Gia and Dante's story, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, in this Lords of New York series, which is unputdownable, featuring the Bratva and their unique stories with a guaranteed safe, high heat, morally grey heores, and their virgin heroines, chaos/drama, suspense that is sure to leave readers on the edge of their seats, betrayal, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the mobster's dancer in this Italian Mafia arranged marriage based in New York that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly dangerous, lustful, emotional, and unforgettable.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for kymagirl.
6,461 reviews89 followers
February 4, 2026
Ballerina meets mobster. Friendship catches fire. Obsession turns to love.

Gia has trained her whole life to become a prima ballerina. Discipline, focus, and solitude have always come first. Love wasn't part of the plan, especially not with Dante, her best friend, her brother-in-law’s younger brother, and the man who’s never crossed the line... until a single kiss makes it impossible to pretend anymore.

Dante has been patient, hiding the depth of his feelings behind quiet control. But when threats creep too close, he stops holding back. Moving Gia into his world isn't just about protection. It's everything he's waited for. As danger closes in, secrets rise, and what started as comfort becomes something fierce and consuming.

Gia has to decide what she’s willing to risk when safety starts to feel like surrender. And Dante, who has always played the long game, is ready to show just how far he’ll go for the one thing he’s never been willing to lose.

She goes from guarded and focused to open and fearless, learning to choose love without losing herself. He moves from controlled and calculated to fiercely devoted, learning that true loyalty means more than protection. Together, they build something real, fueled by heat, tested by fear, and held together by trust.

A high heat, forbidden mafia romance featuring a possessive protector, forced proximity, safestalker devotion, and friends to lovers tension, exploring obsession, identity, safety, intimacy, power, vulnerability, healing, and trust. It’s about the collision of love and obsession, the choice to surrender without losing self, and the kind of loyalty that turns danger into sanctuary. At its heart, it’s about a dancer who finally lets go and the man who never stopped waiting.

The Elevator Pitch: A disciplined ballerina and a possessive mobster collide in a romance built on tension, devotion, and desire. When obsession turns protective and friendship slips into something far more dangerous, love becomes the only safe place left. Steamy, intense, and emotionally rich, it's about surrendering to the one person who sees everything and stays.
Profile Image for Chandra Luna.
2,008 reviews13 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 29, 2026
Gia Marino is disciplined, driven, and fiercely protective of her dream. Ballet isn’t just something she loves; it’s the life she’s built piece by piece, and she refuses to let romance be the thing that costs her everything. Loving Dante Rossi—her best friend, her brother-in-law’s dangerously charming younger brother—is the one risk she never meant to take. Especially when he’s never given her a reason to believe he sees her as anything more than a friend.

Dante’s perspective flips everything on its head in the best way. Calm, calculating, and deeply devoted, he has known from the start that Gia is his. What makes him unforgettable isn’t just his power or confidence—it’s his patience. He doesn’t cage her dreams or demand sacrifices. Instead, he becomes her biggest supporter, her protector, and her quiet constant. The kind of man who doesn’t ask her to choose between love and ambition… because he’d never make her give either one up.

Their chemistry simmers before it ignites, rooted in friendship, longing, and all the things left unsaid. When danger intrudes and lines blur, their connection deepens into something fierce and unshakable. Dante’s protectiveness feels instinctive and earned, while Gia’s vulnerability and strength make her impossible not to root for.

What truly sets this story apart is its heart. Yes, there’s tension and heat, but there’s also reassurance, encouragement, and the kind of love that says I see who you are and I want all of it. Dante doesn’t dim Gia’s light—he stands behind her and makes sure it never goes out.

Short, sweet, and emotionally satisfying, The Mobster’s Dancer is a standout in the Lords of New York series. If you love friends-to-lovers romance, supportive alpha heroes, and stories where love doesn’t demand sacrifice—but inspires growth—this one belongs at the top of your TBR.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Susan McWhinney.
668 reviews9 followers
February 3, 2026
Another great Mafia instalment in the Lords of New York series.
This is younger sister to Sofia and Elena, Gia and Dante Rossi's story.
Gia, all her life has tried to be noticed and loved for who she was. Nobody, not her family or her parents took any notice of her. So when she decided that she wanted to be a dancer, she finally thought her parents would be proud of her...but instead showed no interest in her.
When Sofia took over her care, she decided to let Gia be who she wanted to be, and if Ballet Dancer was her love then they would nurture it together.
When Sofia and Matteo had their second wedding, is when Dante first set eyes on Gia. And he declared to himself that she would be his.
Playing the long game, he was her safe stalker, following her around the world as she danced Odette in the Ballet Companies Production.
But there was a dark side to this mafia story, and as Gia tried and failed to curb her real stalker, she found her self in trouble.
He seemed to know where she was and who she was with.
When she failed to win a bet with Dante, she promised to move in with him. Purely platonic, of course!! Until it wasn't. Some open door hot scenes right there!
Dante just needed her close, and was happy she conceded. But when she saw the Black Rose paperweight on his bedside table, concealing every ticket tab of her performances, she deduced that he was her stalker.
Leaving the Penthouse and heading to the theatre, she is given a package. With a threat on her life!
Giving it to Dante, he acts quickly and his brothers come to help find who the stalker is.
Ahhhhh...swoon worthy as Dante wont leave her side.
Do they find the stalker in time, before he carries out his threat? Having no issues with trust, Gia finds she doesn't know who may be involved.
An overall great short story where the Mobster wins his girl's love.
And as always a brilliant epilogue to finish off the book!
Profile Image for Brandi Jackola.
223 reviews3 followers
February 3, 2026
Gia has watched her two older sisters fall in love and get married, within three months of each other. It’s at her sister Elena’s wedding that she makes a connection with Dante, her brother-in-law’s brother, after having more alcohol than she should. She’s not going to fall for anyone, because she thinks a boyfriend or husband might try to force her to stop dancing, and she’s always going to choose ballet first.

Yeah, that doesn’t go quite the way she thinks it will.

Assuming things is a recipe for disaster and disappointment. Her complete belief that she can’t have a relationship and her career causes Dante to do a few romantically outrageous things, like taking her with him while he was house hunting, and buying the place that she liked. He goes even further than that, but I’m not going to spoil the whole plot here.

Gia also has a stalker. She hasn’t told anyone about said stalker. This is a really, really stupid move, because it doesn’t matter if he hasn’t been threatening, it’s still unwanted attention. And he seems to know where she is, even if she’s in another country.

Whatever may come, Dante isn’t going to let anyone hurt Gia. All he wants is to love her, to be with her, and he had to start out as her friend to get inside her walls. Once he was in, though, there was no going back.

There were some things I related to in this book; I took ballet for three years, but I sucked at it, and I didn’t enjoy it. I wonder how it might have been if I’d had a teacher who could figure out why I was struggling, and help. That’s all water under the bridge, but it still stings a little when I look back at things and see how easily I was ignored and let down. Kind of a theme in my life, really.

Ahem.

The happy ending is happy indeed, and I can’t wait to see what’s coming up for the rest of the series.
3,267 reviews28 followers
February 7, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Elegant obsession, soft devotion, lethal protection

The Mobster’s Dancer hit that perfect sweet spot between gentle romance and ruthless “touch-her-and-die” energy.

Gia is easy to root for—disciplined, passionate, and so deeply committed to her ballet career. I loved that her dream isn’t treated as something disposable or secondary. Her fear of risking everything she’s worked for feels real, especially when it comes to loving someone as dangerous and consuming as Dante.

And Dante… whew. Patient. Calculated. Completely gone for her.
The “best friend who’s secretly been obsessed the whole time” trope is done so well here. He never rushes her, never forces her hand—he waits, watches, and quietly builds a world where she’s safe. His confidence contrasts beautifully with Gia’s careful restraint, and when that line finally blurs, it’s incredibly satisfying.

The stalker subplot adds just the right amount of tension and gives Dante space to show exactly who he is when Gia is threatened. Protective without being cruel to her, terrifying only to those who deserve it. His devotion is absolute, and the way he calls her mia passerotta—my little bird—fits her so perfectly it hurts.

Soft ballerina + silver-tongued mob negotiator is a combo that absolutely delivers. Tender, intense, and deeply romantic—this one lingered with me long after the last page. 💔🩰🖤.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for addictedtodarkromance.
420 reviews137 followers
Review of advance copy
February 4, 2026

Dante is the Rossi family negotiator - the son with "the silver tongue". His brother, the don of the Rossi family, is getting married and his brides sister, Gia, has caught his eye.

Gia is sweet and caring. And she's determined to follow her dream of being a prima ballerina. Dante is confident, protective and patient and encourages Gia to follow her heart.

The spice between these two was steamy (his dirty talk 🥵) and they had a strong connection. They found it easy to talk to each other and Dante realized that she is way more than a one night stand.
 
The story was full of suspense and mystery while we I tried to figure out who was threatening Gia. And I loved when Dante went into full on protective mode!!
 
Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat: 3 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Dante & Gia
Darkness: 1 out of 5 🖤
Nickname: Mia passerotta
Type of book: MF, Insta Love, Dual 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Standalone Novella with Interconnected Characters
Title: Lords of New York Series- The Mobster's Dancer: Book 3
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: HEA
 
 
*OTT Possessive, obsessive, dominant, fiercely loyal and protective MMC
*Eyes only for her
*MINE!
*Rossi family negotiator
*Mafia
*No cheating or sharing
 
 
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be offensive or triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+
 
*I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily writing this review.
Profile Image for Tiffany  Hill.
783 reviews16 followers
February 3, 2026
**His Little Dancer!**

*The Mobster’s Dancer* is the third book in the *Lords of New York* series. I loved Dante and Gia's slow-burning love story as they became best friends first after meeting at their siblings' wedding. While they both feel an instant connection, Dante is fiercely possessive and protective of Gia. He understands how important her career as a ballerina is and recognizes the discipline and dedication required for her dream of becoming a prima ballerina. He knows she is not ready for a relationship, so he remains patient with her, making sure everything he does is for their future together because, no matter what, she is meant to be his forever.

When Dante learns that someone has been threatening her, he will do whatever it takes to keep her safe. Both Dante and Gia make the perfect couple as their friendship develops into a strong, supportive, and deeper connection. When they finally get together, it leads to some very steamy and passionate moments, complete with some dirty talking that I absolutely loved. I found myself hooked from the very first page, especially with the mystery and suspense that made me finish their story way too quickly.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Virginia.
297 reviews2 followers
February 3, 2026
The Mobster's Dancer by Cassi Hart is the third title in the Lords Of New York series and is another great read.
The plot of this mafia instalove romance had a great blend of obsessiveness, protectiveness, spice, drama and suspense, and it had me hooked quickly.
Gia, the third daughter in the Marino family has been befriended by Dante Rossi since her sister Sofia's wedding to Dante's eldest brother Matteo.
Older Dante was captivated by Gia immediately but what may have initially been lust turns out to be much more and he plans for the long term, to claim her.
Gia's focus has always been her ballet and her career as prima ballerina is important as a proof to herself, her family and others that she's not invisible but the friendship with Dante is special and she begins to hope and wish that it could be more and that he might feel the same.
Dante stays front and centre with Gia and calculates his moves and when Gia's secret comes to light the family rallies to protect.
The sizzling chemistry and steam and spice throughout all added to a page turner of a story and the eventual satisfying HEA.
I would definitely recommend this as a great read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tiffany Ann.
38 reviews2 followers
January 31, 2026
ARC Honest Review
I’d give it 3.5⭐️ if Goodreads would let me.

💋I loved the spicy scenes.
💋I love a good age gap trope
💋I love the touch her and die, protective MMC
☠️I do not like miscommunication or lack of communication trope lol. It makes me want to yell at the book and throw it across the room lol…

Personally though this book wasn’t my favorite, BUT I will say…
1. It’s my first Cassi Hart book and after reading her author blurb at the end, the story made more sense.
2. This is the third book in the series, and I haven’t read the first two. While they are intended as standalone, I like character development and I was missing that because of not reading the first 2.
3. I didn’t know this was a short story going in, and I’m use to 300+ pages, so this was super fast paced for me (in regard to the story).
4. I have found I am not a fan of the insta-love trope, but again that is just me personally.
5. I do love a good age gap romance, but also not a fan of age gap and virgins.

All that being said, I will still likely pick up another Cassi Hart book because I do love me some smut. Best of luck for release day!

Profile Image for Marcy G.
454 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 31, 2026
The Mobsters Dancer Gets Her Dream 😴 ! LOVE 💗
Mobsters Dancer : Lords Of New York Book 3 ; Cassi Hart Continues With This Hot Series Of Dynamic Men ! This Time The Charming ! Smooth Talking ! Incredibly Handsome Brother ! Using His Charms To Get His Sister In-law ! She A Prima Ballerina ! Dancing Was Her Whole Life ! Both Infatuated With Each Other , But Neither Knew ! The Looks ! The Desires ! The Hope For
LOVE 💕 ! Of Course There Is Danger ! A Stalker Sending Messages To Her !
Who Will Protector Her ? Her Handsome Monster Stud ?
Dante Rossi And Gia Marino Meet At His Brothers Matteo And Her Sisters Sofias Wedding ! It Was An Instant Infatuation ! Nothing Acted On Yet ! Starting As Friends ! Calls ! Lunches ! Dinners ! Showing Up To Rehearsals ! Plenty Of Phone Call Chats ! All Building Up For The Wait Of Them Finally Getting Together! A Slow Build Up That Builds Your Fantasy For That
Moment ! Will She Finally Find The Recognition And Love 💕 She Has Waited For Her Whole Life ?
Powerful ! Compassionate ! Endearing ! Hopeful ! LOVING 🥰.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
104 reviews
Review of advance copy
February 1, 2026
The Mobster’s Dancer is book three in Cassi Hart’s Lords of New York series, and I am seriously loving this mafia world she’s created. This one is an insta-love, friends-to-lovers romance with a hero who falls first and falls hard—which is always a win for me.

Gia is a stunning prima ballerina, and Dante is the Rossi family’s negotiator. He’s been quietly in her corner, and when circumstances change, he makes sure she’s safely under his roof and under his protection. Watching him step up for her in such a calm but completely possessive way was incredibly satisfying.

The chemistry between them is immediate, the protectiveness is top-tier, and the story is fast-paced without feeling rushed. Dante’s devotion to Gia is unwavering, and I loved seeing their friendship naturally turn into something deeper.

This book had everything I want from a Cassi Hart romance—sweet moments, heat, strong emotions, and a very happy ending. I am having so much fun with this series and can’t wait to keep reading. Highly recommend if you enjoy insta-love mafia romances with protective heroes and guaranteed HEAs.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
213 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 3, 2026
This book danced right into my heart. Gia is so dedicated and driven. She won’t give up her ballet dreams without fighting tooth and nail. Ballet is the driving force in her life. And she won’t lose that to a whim of the heart. She never really saw Dante coming, love wasn’t what she expected or meant to happen. Dante was the calm in any storm and fiercely loyal. For him, Gia has always been his. But unlike so many other mafia romances, Dante is patient and doesn’t demand she give up her life or dreams. He supports her and protects her, constantly there when she needs or wants. The chemistry and connection between these two goes from sizzling to a full blown scorching inferno. Their relationship is based in friendship, giving it a solid foundation to build on. This made their relationship feel much more realistic and genuine. Dante lifts her up and helps her shine, and Gia loves him fiercely and stands beside him in turn. This book is short but filled with so much it will leave you wanting more. My only complaint is that it’s over. Can we just have like 200 more pages about these two?
1,138 reviews8 followers
February 4, 2026
5++ stars

This is book three in the author’s Lords of New York series and features Dante, a brother to Matteo (from Bride for the Mobster) Rossi and Gia Marino, younger sister to Sophia, Matteo’s bride.

Oh my gosh, I am SO loving this series! All of the Rossi men and their employees (specifically Roarke, Elena’s—another of the Marino sisters—bodyguard from The Mobster’s Secret) are smokin’ hot, not to mention obsessive, possessive and protective… my three most favorite traits in MMCs and what keeps me coming back to Ms. Hart’s books again and again.

Amazon says this is only book three of eight in the Lords of New York but I swear, I’m already dreading the final book in the series. As much as I have absolutely loved nearly every single one of her books (and I have!), I think just the three so far might make these my all-time favorite books she’s written. Even if you never take a single of my recommendations, I hope you’ll consider this one regarding this book as well as the two previous ones; it’s an awesome series and one that shouldn’t be missed… they’re THAT good!!! 5++ stars

I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Grinning Cat.
3,922 reviews126 followers
February 4, 2026
Not all the stalking in this book is safe. Just saying. In fact, most of it isn’t. But that’s getting ahead of myself.
Dante falls for Gia immediately upon seeing her but works on a friendship to give her time to get to know him before he makes his move. And some of the stuff he does is a little bit stalkery, but on the whole, he’s wooing her. I love a good He Falls First.
The stalker, on the other hand, is intense, so is Dante, but Dante is very careful about obtaining consent. The stalker plot doesn’t do a lot as far as plot interest, but it does serve as an illuminating counterpoint to Dante’s subtle, consensual wooing.
Book is SAFE.
Heat is EXPLICIT with a virgin heroine who has NEVER BEEN KISSED.
TRIGGERS include stalking, violence, and history of emotional neglect.
TROPES include Instalove, He Falls First, Friends to Lovers, We Are Not Actually Related, J/P Hero, Private Dancer.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Johanna.
2,304 reviews46 followers
February 4, 2026
Book 3 of the Lords of New York series. While it can be read as a standalone for maximum enjoyment read the books in series order.

'Dante
Gia Marino is mine. She just doesn’t know it yet. From the moment I first laid eyes on her, I knew she was it for me. For months, I’ve been patient, carefully maneuvering.....'

The characters drove the storyline and they were very compelling and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. Another great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Leanne Bryson.
5,234 reviews23 followers
February 7, 2026
The Mobster’s Dancer (Lords of New York #3) delivers a delicious slow-burn romance between possessive mafia heir Dante and dedicated ballerina Gia.

They meet at their siblings’ wedding, spark an instant connection, and build a genuine best-friendship first. Dante respects Gia’s dream of becoming a prima ballerina and patiently waits—because he already knows she’s his forever.

When threats emerge, his protective instincts kick into overdrive.

Their friendship deepens into intense, steamy love filled with dirty talk, heartfelt support, and gripping suspense. Hooked from page one—finished it way too fast. Loved it!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for kayla.
276 reviews1 follower
February 12, 2026
Dante sees gia at Matteo and sofias wedding and he can't look away. After talking with her that night he knows she will mean more to him than anyone ever has. He strikes a friendship with her and one night while his gets drunk( something she never does) she kisses him. The following day he kisses her again when she is sober. They fool around on her dresser in his guest room. The next day she finds her ballet studio he made in his gym and on the floor she gives him everything. When he finds out she has a stalker he puts a stop to the man quickly with the help of his brother and she finally confesses she loves him and he loves her just as much. Loved their story!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
132 reviews1 follower
February 4, 2026
Cassi Hart is quickly becoming one of my instant go-to authors. The way she weaves words, creates worlds and the characters within them, it's absolutely brilliant. This book, along with her others, is one of the many reasons I praise her talent.

This novel centers on Gia and Dante and takes us along their journey to an HEA. Though a short read, I love the flow of the book, down to the drama, character development, the chemistry between the main characters and the spice was seriously chef's kiss.

I very highly recommend this book and any other Cassi Hart has written. If I could, I'd give ten stars, but, unfortunately, I can only give five. Such an amazing read!
Profile Image for Jackie Ziegler.
1,853 reviews8 followers
February 5, 2026
Gia is the ballerina dancer and will not give up dancing for anyone or anything. Dante is the Rossi brother who is the darkest and when he first saw Gia at Matteo and Sofia's wedding, he knew he wanted her.

Dante is older than Gia and knew it would take time to get her to be his. They become friends, best friends.

Gia has a stalker, but won't tell Dante. She ends ups moving in with him and hopes the stalker just can't find her anymore. When they do, will she finally fess up?

Dante will do anything for Gia, when he finds out about her stalker, will he be able to keep her safe?.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Aspen G.
1,758 reviews5 followers
February 6, 2026
The Mobster’s Dancer is suspense filled sexy times with stubborn and talented dancer Gia pursuing her dreams and smokin hot Dante completely smitten with her. As innocent as she is, Gia is unrealistic about the stalker haunting her every move during her international travels, and when Dante finds out about the situation? Oh man, does it get good! I love the chemistry between these two! The reappearance of Gia’s sisters and their husbands from the previous novellas in this series are so much fun. And the conclusion is satisfying and sweet. This is a quick and fun read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
5,130 reviews29 followers
February 6, 2026
Dante saw her across the room at his brother’s wedding to her sister. She does not know she is his, but she will, he will be her friend for now. Months later, he maneuvers her to into a bet that has her moving in with him. Gia is totally devoted to her career as a ballet dancer not looking for a husband, but Dante is determined to change her mind. Things heat up fast between the two once she moves in, she has had the same feelings as him. He does know but she has a stalker, things get dangerous after they become a pair.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
241 reviews2 followers
February 15, 2026
I can't say it enough, ANYTHING from Cassi Hart is 5 STARS!!!!! I love her writing and Lords of New York series is icing on the cake. Book 3 is Gia and Dante's story and wow, its fantastic.

Gia is a ballerina who has sacrificed everything to be what she is. Her best friend is her brother-in-laws little brother, Dante. Gia is all grace and beauty and Dante is devoted, grey, and dark. When danger comes for Gia, Dante quietly decides that she's it for him and he claims her. He's not loud, just certain and he'll do whatever it takes for Gia to be protected.... anything.

Thanks again Cassi Hart for the advanced copy. I loved the story and am ready for book #4.
18 reviews
Review of advance copy
January 26, 2026
I think that I have fallen in love with this entire family that Cassi Hart has created. I wish for everyone to have a Dante in their lives. Someone who will support you to achieve your dreams, love you unconditionally and protect you when needed. Dante is the perfect partner for Gia who is still young with so much to achieve. My only complaint with this book is that it ended too quickly and now we have to wait for the next couple to join our world. Great work and a great read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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