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Matteo

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From New York Times & USA Today Bestselling author Clarissa Wild comes a new STANDALONE, full-length MAFIA ROMANCE novel.

To save my mother after she falls dangerously ill, I’m forced into a marriage with Lucio Agostini, a corrupt and malicious Mafia lord set on making me his bride. Lucio’s only interest is to acquire my estranged father’s wealth, and I have no choice if I want my mother to live.
But Lucio’s plans to marry me are thwarted when a rival Mafia family crashes our wedding right before we exchange vows.
My hand in marriage is stolen, and the ring is put around my finger by none other than Matteo De Silva, sworn enemy of Lucio Agostini. He’s callous, headstrong, and dangerous.
In a stubborn quest to avenge his mother, he snatches me at my wedding to use me as a pawn in a devious game. He whisks me away to his mansion, which is nothing more than a luxurious prison for his newlywed wife.
His obsession with destroying Lucio is all that matters to him, even if it costs me my freedom. But I refuse to become collateral. Underneath all that rugged bravado is a wounded man who longs for affection, and I will use his attraction to me against him.
However, my past is laced in despair, and my secrets consume me from the inside out. When everything feels lost, Matteo’s arms offer solace, and his touch calms my mind and sets my senses ablaze. His wicked charms slowly creep their way into my heart until it’s no longer possible for me to deny the growing passion between us.
We both want what the other isn’t willing to give.
A sinful, dirty fight for control is all that’s left.
The only question is … how far are we willing to go?


From the Author of Sick Boys, MATTEO is an exciting new standalone spicy romance, featuring your favorite

💗 Mafia Romance
💗 Stolen hand in Marriage
💗 Enemies to Lovers
💗 Forced Proximity
💗 Revenge Plot
💗 Slow Burn
💗 Age Gap
💗 “Who Did this to you?”
💗 Billionaire Hero
💗 He falls first
💗 “Where is my Wife?!” Vibes
💗 No Cheating
💗 Complete Standalone

339 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication March 20, 2026

14 people are currently reading
178 people want to read

About the author

Clarissa Wild

103 books8,670 followers
**NOTE FOR LIBRARIANS: please check with me before making any changes - I generally make all necessary changes and updates myself. :)**

--- I generally do NOT check my messages on Goodreads, so if you want to contact me, please do so on my website: https://www.clarissawild.com/contact --

Clarissa Wild is a New York Times & USA Today Bestselling author with ASD, who was born and raised in the Netherlands. She loves to write Dark Romance and Contemporary Romance novels featuring dangerous men and feisty women. Her other loves include her hilarious husband, her cutie pie son, her two crazy but cute dogs, and her adorable kitties. In her free time, she enjoys watching all sorts of movies, playing video games, and cooking up some delicious meals.

Check out my books: https://geni.us/clarissabooks

Join my reader group on Facebook:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
Profile Image for phoebe.
47 reviews45 followers
March 12, 2026
Matteo is a fast-paced mafia romance that follows Stella and Matteo. Stella's mother is diagnosed with cancer and does not have the finances to afford treatment, so she goes to her estranged father to ask for help, and he tells her he will not give her a single dime unless she does something for him: find a husband. That is how Stella ends up in the arms of Lucio. He is a dangerous man. Lucio brings Stella to one of his meetings with Mafia Don, Matteo, and that is how he sets his sights on Stella. She runs out onto the balcony, ripping the pearls off of her neck that were given by Lucio, and Matteo is immediately like, "Yeah shes gonna be mine." When a shootout happens during their meeting, Matteo throws a tracker into the vehicle Lucio and Stella are escaping in, and Stella holds onto it. During their wedding, she finds it in her dress, and Matteo and his crew show up. From there, Matteo makes Stella marry him, and there starts their complex relationship. There is a lot of push and pull between them. They love to hate each other, but they also hate to love each other. Stella is very hard-headed, and she is the type of woman who will do whatever she is thinking, so I definitely relate to her lol. Matteo has this hard exterior, but he is definitely a softy. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed their story, and this mafia story felt so nostalgic and definitely took me back to my mafia roots.
Profile Image for Danielle Goodwin.
22 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 12, 2026
I received an ARC copy, my review is completely my own.

I absolutely loved Matteo, the book and the character. I loved that Stella wasn't a weak little girl, yes, she had some moments where panic clawed it's way into her, but after everything she was put through, who could blame her. She was a strong FMC. Matteo for me was perfection, I love a MMC that would burn the world for his woman no matter the cost. He did not disappoint. I was gripped from the start of the book and finished it within a few hours, the plot was amazing, the spice was just the right amount without overpowering the actual plot. The book ended perfectly, and the entire book was well written. I personally have no faults. This was actually my first read of 2026 and I was not disappointed. Thank you for another amazing book Clarissa ❤️
Profile Image for Katie Murphy.
1,050 reviews101 followers
March 10, 2026
4.5 ⭐️

I love Clarissa’s why choose romances but I also love when she writes a mafia romance and Matteo certainly didn’t disappoint.

Our FMC and MMC most certainly had an interesting meeting, Matteo was meeting with another rival head but while he was waiting he stumbled upon Stella who was in a fit of rage and threw her pearl necklace from the balcony. To say his interest was piqued was an understatement and Matteo wanted to know more about this fiery woman. He was soon reunited with Stella when she stood at the side of the man he was meeting, Lucio.

Now Matteo was out for revenge after the fall of his mother at the hands of Lucio’s family, and what no better way to start is to crash Stella and Lucio’s wedding. Of course he had some assistance from Stella, but she didn’t think she’d find herself at the mercy of another man so soon. Yes, Matteo decides that instead Lucio will watch Stella become Matteos wife and let’s just say I was living for every second of it.

From the moment these two met it was clear they were drawn to one another. Matteo’s obsession with his wife was full steam ahead and I absolutely loved it, there was absolutely nothing he wouldn’t do for her, well except give her the freedom she desired. With his enemies closing in it becomes even more evident he would sacrifice the world and not let a flame touch her 😩

I loved these two together, the banter and chemistry was impeccable and the spice? Well Clarissa certainly doesn’t miss on that.

Thank you so much to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
Profile Image for Mirjam.
1,904 reviews116 followers
March 20, 2026



After her mother becomes gravely ill and the medical bills start piling up, Stella is left with no choice but to agree to marry Lucio Agostini, a corrupt and malicious Mafia lord, a man she fears. Desperate to escape a life tied to someone so cruel, she searches for any way out of the arrangement.
Than everything changes on Stella’s wedding day. Just as she’s about to be bound to one man, she’s torn away and forced into a marriage with another, Matteo himself, plunging her into a dangerous game of revenge, power, and unexpected desire. Matteo is consumed by vengeance after his mother’s death, determined to make his enemy suffer. His plan? Take away what his rival values most.







Matteo is a standout character, cold, driven, and fueled by revenge, yet layered with just enough vulnerability to make his gradual emotional unraveling compelling.
The dynamic between him and Stella is a strong highlight, especially with the enemies-to-lovers and forced proximity tropes done well. Their push-and-pull chemistry simmers throughout the story, making the slow burn feel earned and satisfying.







The plot is packed with drama, twists, and emotional conflict, though at times it leans a bit heavily on familiar genre beats. Some character backstory and emotional transitions could have been explored more deeply to add extra weight to certain moments.
That said, the story excels in delivering angst, passion, and tension, with a satisfying blend of romance and danger.







This story delivers exactly what mafia romance fans are looking for; high stakes, intense emotions, and a dangerously attractive antihero.
The premise immediately hooks you: a forced marriage gone wrong, a rival mafia boss stealing the bride, and a heroine caught in a ruthless power struggle. From the very beginning, the tension is palpable and keeps the pages turning.



ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Simone ❤️.
158 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy
March 14, 2026
4.5⭐️

Thank you so much to Clarissa & The Author Agency for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this one I had an amazing time; I blushed, I squealed, I gasped and I swooned over Matteo De Silva more times than I can count! I loved everything about this book from the tension between Matteo & Stella while they got used to being married as well as the amazing plot that had me hooked from the very start, I could not wait for Lucio to get what he deserved along with waiting for what his or Matteo's next move way going to be but I loved how the plot flowed and the pacing was perfect, while it kept me wanting more I could still easily keep up with all of the events that were going down in the battle of De Silva VS Agostini along with Stella & Matteo's developing relationship which I adored they were the perfect mix of fiery, sassy and smitten while still having the most electric & addicting tension while Stella came to terms with her Matteo being her new husband instead of Lucio like she planned.

I also absolutely adored all of the side characters within this one, they really added a sense of safety & comfort within the story because even when the chaos was going down & Stella was still unsettled from being in Matteo's house instead of Lucio's I could always count on Franco or one of the lovely house staff to come into the scene and create the most wholesome atmosphere ever and the way that Matteo's people all took care of Stella was so sweet, even from the moment she walked in like a massive ball of anger & upset they treated her like family regardless of what was going on and how she ended up in their house and it was just so sweet to see Stella be treated with such kindness even though the circumstances weren't exactly the best.

Now the one thing I loved most about this read HAD to be the level of respect and boundaries that Matteo had for Stella, like genuinely the way that this man would not make a single advance towards his wife without an enthusiastic 'I want this' was one of the most attractive thing ever, we LOVE a man who shows respect for their partner. Plus the way that Matteo cared for and looked after Stella even in the early stages of their relationship was the best, I adored seeing Stella being seen and understood as the independent badass that she is all while Matteo spent every day reminding her that while she is capable of doing anything she wanted too she didn't need to if it wasn't required because Matteo would be her protector for the rest of time and that in itself had me FOLDING for Matteo from the get go and I fear he now owns me for the rest of all time!

Overall, I could talk about this book for the foreseeable future and I am so grateful to Clarissa & TAA for allowing me to read this one early, I had the best time and as always Clarissa smashed it.
Profile Image for Shyla S.
396 reviews
Currently reading
March 16, 2026
Matteo is a new standalone mafia romance by Clarissa Wild. The story follows Matteo, a man driven by revenge after his mother is killed. Determined to make Lucio Agostini, a powerful mafia kingpin who is responsible... suffer in every way possible, Matteo waits for the perfect opportunity to strike.

That opportunity comes when Matteo learns Lucio is about to get married. After one brief interaction with the bride-to-be, Stella, Matteo decides to interrupt the wedding and steal Lucio’s bride and marries her himself right in front of him.

When Stella's mother falls dangerously ill, she borrows money from Lucio Agostini to pay for medical expenses. But Lucio isn’t the kind of man you simply repay with cash. To settle the debt, Stella is forced into an arranged marriage with him.

Matteo’s dramatic interruption changes everything. Now bound together in a marriage neither of them expected, Matteo is fully committed to keeping Stella as his wife. Stella, however, refuses to be locked up or controlled by anyone.

Their relationship is full of push and pull, sharp banter, and undeniable tension. Matteo is possessive, protective, and determined to keep what’s his, while Stella is stubborn, feisty, and unwilling to surrender her independence. Despite their differences, the chemistry between them keeps pulling them closer together.

𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤/𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙚 = Matteo De Silva and Stella Runner
𝘾𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 = No
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 = Yes
𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙢𝙚(𝙨) = Enemies to lovers • Mafia • Forced Proximity • Stolen Hand in Marriage/Forced marriage • Revenge • Slow Burn • Age gap • Billionaire / Mafia Don MMC • Feisty & Strong FMC •"Who did this to you?" • He falls first • Dual POV
"𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨" = Language • Sexual content • Gun & knife Violence / Death • physical Abuse (not by mc) • panic attacks •
𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙇𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡 = 🔥🔥
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 = ⭐️ 3.5 - 4

This was a fast-paced mafia romance with plenty of tension, drama, and banter between the main characters. I enjoyed Stella’s feisty personality and how she challenged Matteo instead of simply going along with him. Matteo’s protective and possessive nature definitely gives those classic dark mafia romance vibes.
Profile Image for TinyVenusAfterDark.
802 reviews25 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 19, 2026
Stolen Vows & Dangerous Obsessions
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Tear Drops: 💧
📚EBOOK📚

I got this book as an ARC from the author—lucky me 😊 I’ve read several of Clarissa Wild’s books, so getting early access always feels like such a treat. And once again, she delivers, but in a way that surprised me a little. This is a mafia romance, but compared to her darker works, it felt a bit more “tamed”—still violent, still intense, but lighter than what I’m used to from her. Don’t get me wrong though, it was very good.

This fast-paced story follows Stella and Matteo in alternating POV, which I loved because it really lets you get into both of their heads. Stella starts off seeming quiet and sweet, but that illusion shatters pretty quickly—she’s fierce, stubborn, and strong in a way that makes you instantly root for her. And Matteo… yeah, I absolutely loved him. Possessive, protective, a little unhinged—but with that hidden wounded side that just hits right.

The story kicks off when Stella, desperate to save her sick mother, makes a deal with a dangerous mafia lord, Lucio Agostini—only to end up forced into an arranged marriage. But before that marriage can even happen, Matteo De Silva crashes the wedding and steals her for himself. Talk about an entrance 😏 From there, it’s a game of revenge, control, and survival, with Stella caught in the middle… except she refuses to stay a pawn.

Their dynamic is everything: push and pull, sharp banter, tension that simmers into something undeniable. Matteo wants control, Stella refuses to give it, and watching that power struggle evolve into something deeper was so satisfying. I also really appreciated that Stella wasn’t portrayed as weak—yes, she has moments of fear (and honestly, who wouldn’t in her situation?), but she stands her ground again and again.

Overall, a gripping, addictive mafia romance with strong characters, a solid plot, and that signature Clarissa Wild edge—just with a slightly softer bite this time. Definitely worth the read if you love possessive heroes, fierce heroines, and a whole lot of tension 🔥
Profile Image for Nicole.
488 reviews4 followers
March 15, 2026
In order to pay for her mother’s medical treatments, Stella found herself forced to marry a monster. Determined to obtain her father’s wealth that comes with strings attached, he drags her to a church for the ceremony, only to be ambushed by a rival seeking revenge, and Stella finds herself married to this Mafia leader instead. Looking to avenge his mother, he uses Stella as a pawn, locking her in a new prison, disguised as his home, but Stella refuses to stand by and watch yet another man control her life.

After his mother was killed, Matteo vowed to make Lucio Agostini suffer until the day he died, and when an opportunity arose to take his bride, he took it without hesitation. Now he has a wife, that he swore he wouldn’t touch, who is quickly invading his every thought. And while he is focused on getting back at Agostini, she is focused on getting away from them both. But when she comes to his rescue when his life is at risk, they both have to come to terms with new feelings brewing between them.

I received an early copy of this book from The Author Agency, and while I am obsessed with the author’s SpineRidgeU books, it felt like something didn’t quite fit in this one. The story itself was incredible, but the writing felt a bit awkward in the first few chapters, which may be what threw me off. I loved how Stella came in swinging right from the beginning, and wasn’t afraid to call Matteo out on anything. She also was able to realize that his anger came from a place of hurt, and connect with him on that level. Matteo came off as a powerful mafioso, but also allowed himself to be vulnerable with Stella, and once he realized just how he was trapping her, he gave her what she needed. Their connection grew fast and furious, and when they finally collided, it was explosive! The “don’t touch my wife” energy was big in this one, and the spice packed extra heat!
Profile Image for The Millennial Mood Reader.
145 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 14, 2026
If you want a fast paced, stand alone mafia romance then this book should be on your TBR! I absolutely love Clarissa’s Spine Ridge U series so when I saw she was releasing a Mafia dark romance I couldn’t wait to read it!

The books checks off all the tropes I love in a mafia romance! Forced Proximity, Forced Marriage, Enemies to Lovers, “Where is my wife?!” & “Who did this to you”

Stella is so feisty and strong! Shes been through so much trying to hep her mother with her cancer treatments and lands in a bad situation being married off to a bad mafioso!
Matteo’s first encounter with her he was so taken by her fire and once he realized she was engaged to his enemy he knew he had to have her go himself!

Matteo falls first and hard and is so protective! He absolutely gives touch her and 💀 vibes! Him calling her Tesoro .. swoon!!!

𝘎𝘰𝘥, 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘣𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘺.

Matteo has a filthy mouth and I was here for it!!

“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙄’𝙢 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙛-𝙘𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮,”

I love that Stella was a strong FMC who would fight back. She just wanted to be free! Once they not stopped dancing around their feelings and really gave in the chemistry was fire!!

I really enjoyed this book and would recommend to anyone who likes fast paced, mafia romance!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5

Tropes:
Mafia Romance
Slowburn
Force Proximity
Forced Marriage
Revenge plot
Fiesty FMC
Morally Grey MMC
Touch her & 💀
Age Gap
He falls first

Thank you to The Author Agency and author Clarissa Wild for allowing me to ARC read! All opinions are my own.

Profile Image for Briana.
172 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
March 19, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
3 🌶️

🌟ARC Read🌟


Matteo is a powerful mob boss driven by revenge against Lucio, the man responsible for his mother’s death. On the night of a tense meeting, he notices a woman on a balcony, emotional, furious, and throwing her pearls into the night. She runs before he can say a word.

Then he walks into the meeting and there she is again, Lucio’s fiancée.

Chaos erupts when an attack breaks out, and in the aftermath Matteo plants a tracker on Lucio’s vehicle. But instead of leading him straight to Lucio, it leads him to Stella.

Stella is trapped in a forced marriage to a man she despises. She only agreed to it because she borrowed money from Lucio to care for her sick mother. To make matters worse, her wealthy father has completely cut her and her mother off.

When Stella finds the tracker, she leads Matteo right to her wedding day. And Matteo? He crashes it and takes everything from Lucio by forcing Stella to marry him instead.

At first, it feels like she’s gone from one cage to another. But Matteo is not what she expects. He’s possessive, yes, but he doesn’t force her. He gives her space to be angry, to fight him, to question everything. And slowly, she starts to see the man underneath the reputation.

I really enjoyed the dynamic between these two. Matteo had so much more depth than Stella initially believed, and watching her realize that he wasn’t trying to cage her but protect her was my favorite part.

Also… I NEED a book for his brother 👀

Spicy chapters 🔥
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Profile Image for Jazzy.
143 reviews
March 16, 2026
My ARC review

I just finished this book and was hooked immediately; I couldn’t put it down. It’s the perfect read for fans of dark mafia romance with enemies to lovers tension, forced proximity, revenge, a slow burn, an age gap, and those intense “where is my wife?” moments. The story’s dynamics were so entertaining, especially the stolen marriage element and the well executed revenge plot. There’s plenty of action and a few twists that keep things exciting the whole way through.

Mateo and Stella’s story completely pulled me in. Mateo, the brooding Don, has that intimidating mafia presence but also shows a surprisingly softer side that made me love him even more. Stella is the perfect match for him; bold, feisty, and full of attitude. Their chemistry, the push and pull between them, and the constant tension made their relationship incredibly addictive to read.

As someone who already loved Clarissa’s Spine Ridge University series, I was really curious to see how she’d handle mafia romance, and she absolutely delivered. The story kicks off with intensity and never slows down. The spice is great, the plot is engaging, and the characters feel well developed. I also really enjoyed the side characters and their loyalty to Matteo; it added so much depth to the story.

I loved the ending so much, and honestly, I couldn’t get enough of Mateo and Stella. This book completely exceeded my expectations, and now I’m really hoping for more mafia stories from Clarissa.
Profile Image for Candy.
136 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 17, 2026
4 ⭐ 'Matteo' ARC Review

💗 Mafia Romance
💗 Stolen hand in Marriage
💗 Enemies to Lovers
💗 Forced Proximity
💗 Revenge Plot
💗 Slow Burn
💗 Age Gap
💗 “Who Did this to you?”
💗 Billionaire Hero
💗 He falls first
💗 “Where is my Wife?!” Vibes
💗 No Cheating
💗 Complete Standalone


Stella a strong, feisty FMC. She has been through as lot and is very protective of mother, who has been dealing with her health. Which has brought Stella to her current predicament when forced to marry a horrid and cruel, scheming man by her father.

After a traumatic night on the run from brutal men, she comes across our MMC Matteo, who he and his men save her from a brutal end. Once he realizes her situation, he brings Stella back to his place once he finds its his enemy she's being forced to marry. Matteo has decided to claim Stella as his own.

This read had the perfect tropes, enemies to lovers, he falls first, forced proximity, 'where is my wife'. Easy, faced paced Mafia read! 

Personally I have been reading a lot of Mafia reads lately and I found this read was quite similar, so this read didn't have that wow or different factor to empress me further, but I did enjoy it.

I loved how Stella didn't back down, always fought and gave back. Loved Matteo's  protective and obsessive nature and of course his dirty mouth! They both had good banter and chemistry between them. For those who love a good Mafia Romance, this is a easy read.
Profile Image for Heather Miller.
1,527 reviews47 followers
March 20, 2026
Book Trope: Mafia Romance, Stolen hand in Marriage, Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Revenge Plot, Slow Burn, Age Gap

Stella Runner is engaged to Lucio Agostini as a payment for a debt. Lucio threatens Stella if she makes any wrong sort of move / noise / statements to embarras him she will regret it.

Matteo De Silva is a rival of Lucio's. Once he sees Stella he can't forget her, and he wants her. He can't figure out why is she with Lucio to begin with? Matteo finds out that Stella is to marry Lucio. He goes to the wedding, interupts in the middle of the ceremony, forcing Stella away from Lucio and staking a claim that he is making Stella his wife! Matteo knows that Lucio wants Stella, and this is something he can take outright from him. Did Stella just become a pawn in the mafia war between Matteo and Lucio?

When Matteo steals and marries Stella in front of Lucio he knows he’s just started a mafia war. What will the rival families do? Go to War? Matteo takes Stella back to his mansion. Of course she begs to be released and he denies her. Will Stella be able to see her mom again? What will this marriage be like with Matteo - someone she doesn’t know and who doesn’t know her.

Will Lucio come for her? Will Matteo and his men be able to keep Stella safe? Or will Stella be able to escape both of these mafia men?

I did receive a free ARC Book Copy from The Author Clarissa Wild. I am freely leaving a honest book review.
Profile Image for Little monster.
717 reviews19 followers
March 20, 2026
If you love your romance dark, dramatic, and dripping with tension—Matteo absolutely delivers and Clarissa Wild doesn't disappoint.


This book had me hooked from the wedding crash heard around the mafia world. One minute Stella is being forced to marry one villain, and the next? She’s stolen mid-vows by an even more dangerous one. And honestly…....upgrade lol.

Matteo De Silva is every bit the morally grey, possessive anti-hero we crave—ruthless, obsessive, and completely unhinged when it comes to “his wife.” The “Where is my wife?!” energy? TOP TIER. He falls first, falls hard, and then spends the rest of the book pretending he’s still in control (he’s not). The chemistry between these two is a slow, simmering burn that builds into something intense and addictive. I loved that she wasn’t a pushover—she plays her own game, even when she’s trapped in his world. Their dynamic is very much a power struggle wrapped in desire, and it keeps things deliciously messy.


Tropes done right:
✅Enemies to lovers
🔥 Forced marriage (but make it chaotic)
✅Touch her and die vibes
🔥Broken hero with a soft spot
✅Tension you could cut with a knife
🔥He falls first and HARD!!

Urgh the angst, spice, and drama I want more and I can't wait to see what is gonna come next!! This was dark, addictive, and full of possessive energy—perfect for mafia romance lovers who want danger, obsession, and a hero who burns the world down for his woman. 🔥
Profile Image for SinfulReadsByV.
244 reviews33 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 13, 2026
It used to be all about my revenge. I didn’t care about anything else, not even my life. But now there is her. All there is … is her.

“I’m gonna c*me inside you, and you’re going to take every last drop of my c*m like the naughty girl you are, Tesoro.”

Stella was no wallflower, and the moves she kept pulling on Matteo kept him constantly on his toes. I loved that way too much and found myself laughing at some of the things she did. She had just the right amount of sass to make their dynamic really fun to read. Matteo was insta-obsessed with her, and I loved that mixed in with all the slow-burning tension between them. The revenge element added that extra dramatic spark to the story and kept the stakes high. I love Clarissa Wild’s writing style, and this one didn’t disappoint. The whole stolen hand in marriage thing was one of my fav moments for me. The mix of danger, passion, and emotional moments kept me hooked from start to finish.
If you enjoy a faster-paced mafia romance with a strong “who did this to you” vibe, this would be a story to read.

💗 Mafia Romance
💗 Stolen hand in Marriage
💗 Enemies to Lovers
💗 Forced Proximity
💗 Revenge Plot
💗 Slow Burn
💗 Age Gap
💗 “Who Did this to you?”
💗 B1llionaire Hero
💗 He falls first
💗 “Where is my Wife?!” Vibes
💗 No Cheating
💗 Complete Standalone
Profile Image for Heids_in_books.
74 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 15, 2026
I love of all of Clarissa's books and Matteo was no exception!
Matteo and Stella first meet in his casino, while Stella is engaged to another mafia boss, and from that first meeting Matteo is already gone for her. Im not normally a huge fan of insta love, but this worked so well for the plot.

Matteo is driven by revenge against Stella’s fiancé, who killed his mother, and that revenge plot was one of my favourite parts of the book. Without spoiling too much, Matteo ends up taking Stella from her wedding and marrying her himself.

Stella is a very strong FMC, which I love. She’s smart, capable, and doesn’t need anyone to save her. Even when she’s trapped in another situation she never wanted, she still looks for ways to get what she wants and keep some control for herself.

And Matteo was so good. He’s powerful and possessive, but he’s also consistently good to Stella. He may want to control her, but Stella definitely keeps him on his toes, and I loved that dynamic between them. Also, he has the whole "Don't touch my wife" going on and thats one of my favourite tropes haha!

The plot was great, the romance was strong, and the chemistry between them kept me on my toes! Overall, this was a really enjoyable mafia romance and definitely one I’d recommend if you like forced marriage, revenge, tension, a strong heroine and touch my wife and die!
Profile Image for Emily Knaus.
517 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
March 16, 2026
“I don’t want anyone to see the unholy things I’m about to do to your body. You’re all mine and mine alone.”

Love me an age gap, mafia romance! I also live for a “my wife” declaration and Matteo gives that and more. Matteo’s plan may have started as revenge, but stealing another man’s fiancé and making her his wife ended in a once in a lifetime kind of love. What starts as enemies to lovers, with Stella trying to unalive him turns into a story of devotion and possession as trust rather than control.

Stella is as feisty as they come and that is what Matteo is drawn to immediately from their first encounter. She may hate him but she can’t help but fall for him. Matteo is utterly obsessed with her and won’t push the boundaries until she truly means to stay, even if it pains him. Slowly she falls for him through his actions and can’t stand to be away from him. Matteo took is vows seriously the moment they left his lips and will do anything to show Stella he’s all in. He calls her “Tesoro” and I find that so freaking cute! She doesn’t know what it means at first and when she realizes she melts just a little bit more.

This is a spicy, fast paced, banter filled mafia romance! It’s action packed with slow burn tension and mafia themes that work incredibly well to tie the story together.

A huge thank you to Clarissa Wild and The Author Agency for the early copy!
Profile Image for Amanda.
620 reviews13 followers
March 20, 2026
Wow, Clarissa has done it again. This couple, Stella and Matteo, I enjoyed their story. If you are going to be forced into a marriage that you don't want, Matteo is definitely who I would want. I love a good mafia romance. If mafia is one of your favorite genres, this book is a must read. Once you have had a taste of Clarissa's writing, she has a lot more books you can dive into.
Matteo is a 5 star read, a must read in my opinion.
Profile Image for Hanan .
2,054 reviews20 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 20, 2026
I love the mafia romances. And when I found out Ms. Wild was releasing one I was so excited.
First I what to start by saying the cover is so freaking sexy! 😍 I just love it.
I liked Matteo and Stella, our two main characters.
She was no damsel in distress. She was feisty and had attitude. And that girl had courage.
But some of her decisions and actions were bratty.
Matteo became obsessed with her from the moment he saw her.
Without knowing who she was or who she was engaged to.
So I liked that he was taken by her without first knowing that she was his enemy’s fiancée.
I loved seeing his soft side when it came to Stella. Not a lot of mafia dons are kind to their wives.
There were a couple of things that didn’t fit for me. Matteo is the son of his mafia family.
Others lower on the scale shake in their boots from him, as we were told by Matteo.
And as how it should be. But Lucio, his sworn enemy, who is not on the same hierarchy as Matteo was not. It seemed Lucio wasn’t scared of him at all nor of the consequences Matteo threats him with.
That had me not seeing Matteo the way he sees himself.
Second his home should be safer than a president’s house. Yet it wasn’t.
We are told security guards are “stationed right outside each room, as well as the front door”.
Yet things happen in the house that should not with so much security.
I liked the book. And getting to be along the ride with Matteo and Stella.
Profile Image for CarlysGrowingTBR.
720 reviews77 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 10, 2026
If you're looking for a standalone mafia story that has everything you would expect from the genre, as well as witty banter and a "she can save herself" FMC, look no further than Matteo by Clarissa Wild.

This had all the vibes of a dark romance with a mafia theme that will definitely tickle the fancy of any mafia romance reader. We had a no-nonsense mafia Don who is out for vengeance against a rival syndicate. We had a strong willed and definitely stubborn FMC who could give it as well as she could take it. (Pun intended). The banter between our FMC and MMC was absolutely hilarious and at times downright intoxicating.

This was a fun, easy and fast-paced read that kept me intrigued from start to finish. It was extremely easy to get lost in the vibe and in the romance. The spicy scenes were absolutely well done and did not feel cringe in anyway. They managed to be both steamy and romantic while definitely heating up the temperature

We had a really good use of tropes that are common for this genre. I really enjoyed this read overall if you're into mafia romance this is one you don't wanna miss.

Profile Image for Inge Mosch.
509 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 13, 2026
What a delicious mafia romance! The pacing of this book was absolutely perfect, I devoured it in just a couple of hours because I simply couldn’t put it down. From the very first page, the story pulled me in and kept me completely hooked.

Surprisingly, this was my first book by Clarissa, but it will definitely not be my last. I completely fell in love with her writing style. It’s so smooth and engaging that the pages just fly by, and before you know it you’re already at the end.
The revenge elements and those amazing “who did this to you?” vibes made the story even better. It kept me entertained the whole time and never felt boring for a single moment. Stella was such a fun character; her sass, attitude, and strong personality made her stand out so much. And of course, the spice was definitely there and done really well. 🌶️

And the epilogue… I honestly laughed so hard. It was such a funny and perfect way to wrap up the story, and it left me with a huge smile on my face.

I really recommend this book if you love mafia romances with strong characters, revenge, tension, humor, and a good amount of spice. Definitely one I won’t forget anytime soon!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Profile Image for Marsha.
1,255 reviews30 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 14, 2026
I got some mixed feelings about this one. I liked the premise of the story, but there were some things along the way that just didn't feel right. Matteo was this alleged Mafia kingpin, but there were instances that made it feel like he just wasn't as powerful as he claimed to be. He claimed that the enemy (Lucio) wouldn't dare try to kill him because of the consequences, yet he made many attempts. His home/mansion was supposedly this safe place, like Fort Knox, with all the men who work for him there as security, yet the enemy was able to get in and someone escaped without notice. You'd think if he was this self-proclaimed Mafioso, he'd have security cameras all over the place. Things like that, that made it hard to believe he was as powerful or dangerous as he was supposed to be. The spicy scenes are pretty good. Stella's character was sassy and confident. She was smart, yet made several bad decisions, some of which almost cost her her life. The book is easy and quick to read. It alternates POVs. There is some violence. There is sexual content, that is intended for mature readers.
Profile Image for Danielle Marlowe.
2,068 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 18, 2026
I got hooked on Matteo way faster than I expected. I didn’t even plan to get so into it, but once I started, I just kept reading and couldn’t put it down.

I always enjoy Clarissa Wild’s books, and this one was no exception. The chemistry between the characters really pulled me in, especially with that intense enemies-to-lovers dynamic and forced proximity situation. It had that addictive push-and-pull that keeps you turning pages.

Matteo himself was exactly the kind of character you love, dangerous, intense, just enough depth to make you want to understand him more. The connection between him and Stella felt strong throughout, and I liked how their relationship developed alongside all the chaos going on around them.

The story flowed really well, it’s one of those books where you sit down for “just a few chapters” and suddenly realize you’ve read way more than you planned.

It had the drama, the tension, and the emotional pull that makes a mafia romance so addictive.

Matteo was definitely a hit—I enjoyed it a lot. Clarissa Wild did an amazing job with this one.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars!

Thank you, Clarissa Wild, for another Great read 😊
Profile Image for RollTide.Reads.
378 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Matteo blew in to this story like a hurricane 🥵

From the very first chapter, this book had me locked in. Without spoiling, read this if you love the drama in a scene with powerful men around the room. The incredible high stakes opening grabbed me by the throat besties!!

Clarissa Wild is known to know how to blend danger, desire, and emotional tension, and Matteo delivered all of it in spades.

Matteo was everything I want in my dark mafia romance men. He was so obsessive, ruthless and vulnerable beneath all the strength. Stella was a fierce FMC and their chemistry was incredible.

The revenge plot was gripping and I LOVE the forced proximity trope anyway but the way Clarissa wrote this I was hooked! I loved watching Stella hold her ground, even when the world around her was crumbling. Their dynamic was deliciously messy and intense.

If you love mafia romance with heat, heart, and a hero who falls hard even while fighting it, Matteo is absolutely worth the read. I devoured it.

Thank you so much Clarissa for the gifted ARC. This was a PLEASURE to read and sets a standard for mafia romances.
Profile Image for thebeespot72.
1,815 reviews195 followers
March 20, 2026
Up until reading Clarissa Wild’s Matteo , I was in the worst Mafia Romance reading slump. The kind where I dnf’d countless books one after the other. I messaged friends for recommendations, scoured the internet for more, only to conclude that perhaps I had indeed read every Mafia Romance book out there after all.

By just a few chapters in, I texted a friend and fellow Mafia Romance lover, “I don’t want to jinx this, but I think this is the one.” And it most certainly was the one. From the “Stolen Marriage” moment to Stella’s edgy, sharp-tongued dialogue with Matteo. Author Clarissa Wild had my full attention throughout.

Stella’s character is both strong and shows vulnerability, much like Matteo’s. I loved the way Clarissa handled Matteo’s revenge piece, weaving it into Stella’s personal struggles. I can’t tell you how giddy I was to read this book because of my slump. The story hit it all for me. It’s the Mafia Romance that I was looking for. And, as with Clarissa Wild’s books, readers are going to get, without a doubt, well-written spice.

Thank you to Author Clarissa Wild and The Author Agency for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Carissa.
23 reviews
Review of advance copy
March 19, 2026
✨Spoiler free ARC review ✨
Matteo by @clarissa.wild
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Mafia romance. Forced and stolen marriage??? SIGN ME UP 😩

Matteo is that “fuck around and find out” kind of man and goooood lawd 🥵 Ruthless. Calculated. The type of man who makes a move and deals with the consequences later.

When the perfect opportunity presents itself to strike back at his rival Lucio, he doesn’t hesitate. Stealing the bride at her own wedding? Bold. Unhinged. Exactly what I signed up for 🤷🏽‍♀️😏

Stella walks into this situation thinking she has no control, but she proves very quickly that she is not someone to underestimate. She is stubborn, loyal, and stronger than she gives herself credit for. And listen… I thought her mouth was going to get her in trouble so many times 😭 but that fire and refusal to back down made me respect her even more.

Their enemies to lovers tension felt so natural. The banter was sharp and full of bite. Watching Stella realize her husband might not be the monster she believed he was??? That shift was everything.

And the slow burn. My gawd 😰 The teasing was intentional. The buildup was torture in the best way. When it finally hits, it hitsss🥵

This one had me locked in. I kept telling myself “one more chapter” and then suddenly I was way past my bedtime. 😅 The tension, the stakes, the way everything kept escalating… I needed to see how it was going to play out!

If mafia romance is your thing, this one needs to be on your radar! Out TOMORROW March 20th 👀📚
Profile Image for Perla Garcia.
88 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 20, 2026
This book had me in a chokehold from page one. I devoured it in under five hours because putting it down simply wasn’t an option.

Matteo… Absolutely feral behavior, and I loved every second of it. By chapter three, when he drops, “You wanted a spectacle, you’ll get one… I will take the one thing you never wanted to give, and you will watch while I make your fiancée my wife,” I was already gone. That’s the kind of ruthless, take-no-prisoners Mafia Don energy he brings, and it hit perfectly.

And Stella, yup she’s that girl. Strong, sharp, and always thinking three steps ahead. The way she immediately starts plotting her escape from these mafia men had me hooked, but chapter seven? Yeah… I did NOT see that coming. Genius.

Clarissa Wild also crafted villains you genuinely want to fight. If I could jump into the book, Lucio would be catching hands immediately… followed closely by Stella’s dad.

Also, I need…no, I’m begging for an Angelo book. Please. I’m on my knees.

This felt different from what I usually expect from a Clarissa Wild story, but in the best way possible. It easily became one of my favorites. Solid 4⭐ read for me, and I’ll be recommending it to anyone who will listen.

Thank you, Clarissa Wild, for the opportunity to be an ARC reader and congratulations on another unforgettable story!
Profile Image for Denise O.
84 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 17, 2026
The chemistry, slow burning tension between these two throughout the book was 🔥🔥

Stella used as a pawn in Matteo’s revenge against Lucio ends up marrying him when he gate crashes her wedding to Lucio and forces her to marry him instead.

At the beginning Stella hates him for holding her prisoner, she’s sees him as the devil in disguise no better than Lucio.But then she realises maybe he’s not as bad as she thought he was, that the more she gets to know him the more she falling for him.

For Matteo, he knows what he did was wrong, he can’t undo it but he wouldn’t change a thing, from the first moment he saw her he was drawn to her. And by putting her life in danger, he will do everything to protect her💕

I absolutely loved this story, the slow burn, the push and pull between Matteo and Stella throughout the book was 🔥🔥she was more than just his plaything, she was his equal 💕

This book has

🖤𝔼𝕟𝕖𝕞𝕚𝕖𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕝𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕤
🧡𝔽𝕠𝕣𝕔𝕖𝕕 𝕡𝕣𝕠𝕩𝕚𝕞𝕚𝕥𝕪
🖤𝕊𝕝𝕠𝕨 𝕓𝕦𝕣𝕟
🧡𝕊𝕥𝕠𝕝𝕖𝕟 𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕒𝕘𝕖
🖤ℍ𝕖 𝕗𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕤 𝕗𝕚𝕣𝕤𝕥 - 𝕄𝕪 𝕗𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 𝕥𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖
🧡”𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕚𝕤 𝕞𝕪 𝕨𝕚𝕗𝕖” 𝕧𝕚𝕓𝕖𝕤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Ari.
56 reviews10 followers
March 18, 2026
I received an ARC copy from the author.

Matteo is a very easy ready, a fast paced Mafia Romance story which has Matteo and Stella as protagonists. I really liked that they went straight to the point and that the characters, despite having moments of tranquility, they were always moving, there wasn’t a moment when the pace faltered. However, the reason why I put three stars to it was the fact that for more than half of the book, I was annoyed by Stella. I love when characters have depth and there’s more to them than just plot devices and I think Stella had every right to be reluctant to fall into another Mafia Man’s arms but her hot and cold attitude truly tired me after a little while.

Another thing that I found a bit disappointing was the reason why she was going to marry Lucio. I thought that whole plot was not something that had to be resolved at the end of the book, it could’ve been resolved earlier.

At the end of the day, it is a good book and not boring at all so if you want some fast paced read, this one’s for you.
Profile Image for Kellysbookishbliss .
70 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 18, 2026
Mafia girls.. this book is not an option! This is a MUST read.

I ate this up, almost in one sitting, but I had to get some sleep so it became a two sitting read.

This is a forged marriage mafia romance, but a forged marriage like this is a first for me and I absolutely loved it.
The strong and feisty FMC combined with a stubborn, strong, hot, mafia boss is everything! When they met for the first time in a short encounter Matteo was obsessed. But didn't know anything about her, but knew he had to follow her.

Stella, did what she had to do to save her mother. But if you told her she would end up with this ruthless mafia boss she would have been laughing so hard in your face. But in the end he is the only one standing in her corner.

What can I say, I don't want to say much because you have to read it for yourself. The story flows so good and don't forget to read the TW. If you love mafia, forged marriage, romance, where is my wife...you will be eating this book up!!
This books made me very happy I can definitely say I'm not in a reading slump anymore.
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