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Sold to the mob boss, now she becomes his prey.
I am Marcello Dellucci, new don of the Dellucci Mafia.
And my devilish reign over the city has only just begun.
But when a beautiful girl steps onto the auction stage I forget everything I'm supposed to be.
I want to claim her, no matter the cost.
So I buy her body and take everything she has to give.
Now she’s my pet, my Kitten… My Harper.
And I'm not ever letting her go.
She’s more precious than even she knows.
And our dark pasts are more connected than either of us realize.
I will ruin anyone who dares to take her from me.
Nothing will stand in between us.
Not even her.
I am Marcello Dellucci, new don of the Dellucci Mafia.
And my devilish reign over the city has only just begun.
But when a beautiful girl steps onto the auction stage I forget everything I'm supposed to be.
I want to claim her, no matter the cost.
So I buy her body and take everything she has to give.
Now she’s my pet, my Kitten… My Harper.
And I'm not ever letting her go.
She’s more precious than even she knows.
And our dark pasts are more connected than either of us realize.
I will ruin anyone who dares to take her from me.
Nothing will stand in between us.
Not even her.
Unknown Binding
First published September 19, 2021
1101 people are currently reading
1750 people want to read
About the author
Clarissa Wild
100 books8,658 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:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/FanCl...
--- 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:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/FanCl...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
September 28, 2021
3.85⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 3.85/5
Enjoyment: 3.85/5
Dark Level: 1/5
Sexual Level: SEX-CITINGLY GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes
Male: Mafia Boss & Sexy
Series: book 1(Cliffhanger)
Pages: loc. 3357
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY
What in the soap opera universe is going on? This story started out ok. However, it’s one of those books that the further you go is, the better it’s getting. It had its dark content, but I don’t feel it was really dark for me, and that’s not saying others won’t find it very dark. It was more the twist and turns that really attracted me to this story. Harper was a young and a bit naive, but that was apart of the allure about her when she is dealing with Marcello. She is also trying to find out what happen to her parents when she was younger, thus some twist and turns. Marcello had a good bravado, and he was intense but would have loved a bit more intensity, especially when he bought Harper. He was a little too nice to me. Nonetheless, Marcello’s beef with the Russian was so interesting and that’s what has me wanting to know what will happen.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY:
I love the sex scenes. Marcello was so hot to me when he dominated Harper, and not in a BDSM way. They didn’t do anything crazy, but you felt their chemistry and it showed sexually, and I enjoyed it.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
So many characters brought this book to life, bad and good. None stood out that I would hope to see with their own story. I really like Mario and Claudio, Marcello’s right hand man.
OVERALL:
The story started out ok, but once it took off I became really invested.
✰✰TRIGGERS: human trafficking (not mentioned but they auctioned on non willing women) and violence.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Style: Dark Mafia Romance
Story: 3.85/5
Enjoyment: 3.85/5
Dark Level: 1/5
Sexual Level: SEX-CITINGLY GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes
Male: Mafia Boss & Sexy
Series: book 1(Cliffhanger)
Pages: loc. 3357
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY
What in the soap opera universe is going on? This story started out ok. However, it’s one of those books that the further you go is, the better it’s getting. It had its dark content, but I don’t feel it was really dark for me, and that’s not saying others won’t find it very dark. It was more the twist and turns that really attracted me to this story. Harper was a young and a bit naive, but that was apart of the allure about her when she is dealing with Marcello. She is also trying to find out what happen to her parents when she was younger, thus some twist and turns. Marcello had a good bravado, and he was intense but would have loved a bit more intensity, especially when he bought Harper. He was a little too nice to me. Nonetheless, Marcello’s beef with the Russian was so interesting and that’s what has me wanting to know what will happen.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY:
I love the sex scenes. Marcello was so hot to me when he dominated Harper, and not in a BDSM way. They didn’t do anything crazy, but you felt their chemistry and it showed sexually, and I enjoyed it.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
So many characters brought this book to life, bad and good. None stood out that I would hope to see with their own story. I really like Mario and Claudio, Marcello’s right hand man.
OVERALL:
The story started out ok, but once it took off I became really invested.
✰✰TRIGGERS: human trafficking (not mentioned but they auctioned on non willing women) and violence.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Read
October 2, 2021NOW LIVE AND IN KINDLE UNLIMITED!
Read it now 👉 http://bit.ly/soldbookamazon
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EXCERPT:
I stop outside the VIP room, and the corner of my mouth lifts as I push the door open. Stepping into the luxurious room, I instantly lock my eyes on my prey.
The girl lifts the tray in front of her as if she’s thinking about using it against me as well.
I let out an amused chuckle. “ Is that supposed to intimidate me?”
“Back off,” she threatens even though there’s a tremble in her voice.
Even though she’s scared, her eyes are filled with fire.
God, it’s a turn-on.
Wanting to set her at ease, I say, “Relax. I’m not going to hurt you.”
“Then why did you follow me?” she demands, lifting her chin an inch.
The corner of my mouth lifts again, amused by her display of bravery. “What’s your name, kitten?”
“Why do you care?” Then she scowls at me. “And don’t call me kitten.”
“Just curious.” I step inside the room and shut the door behind me, which makes the girl stiffen.
“Who are you, and what do you want?”
“Marcello.” I let my name drift over my lips.
What do I want?
Her.
To my surprise, she lets out a burst of laughter. “Yeah, right,” she scoffs. “And I’m freaking Cleopatra.”
I tilt my head to the side, my eyes narrowing on her. “Is there something funny about my name?”
Her gaze glides over me. “The expensive suit, the accent, the name … If you’re going to cosplay as some big bad Mafia guy, I’d try to be a little more subtle about things, you know?”
Hmm … so she doesn’t even know.
Most men here would recognize me in a heartbeat, even the drunken bastards, which means this girl is not a part of this world I’m in. Yet she works at this club, the one place where all dirty deals are made. Interesting. What is she doing here?
Moving closer, I take a seat on the couch a couple of feet away from her. She stiffens again, but when I make myself comfortable, unbuttoning my jacket, she seems to relax a little. Enough to lower the tray.
I drink in the sight of her, and now that we’re close, I can appreciate just how stunning she is. Taking a deep breath, I say, “I assure you, kitten, I’m not playing at anything.”
“I told you to stop calling me that.”
“What?” I ask, feigning ignorance.
“Kitten.” Her voice is sharp and aggressive, but I see the fear dancing in her eyes. There’s also curiosity, which means she’s not as cold toward me as she’d like me to believe.
A smile tugs at my mouth as I play with her. “But I don’t know your name. What else am I supposed to call you?”
“Definitely not that.” Her eyebrows are a sharp downward V. Intense, unafraid.
It doesn’t escape my attention that she’s not telling me her name.
I rise to my full height, and it forces her to tilt her head back to keep eye contact with me. “Tell me something, kitten.”
She furrows her brows more.
“If you are so frightened of me—”
“I’m not,” she grinds the words out between clenched teeth.
“Then tell me to leave,” I dare her, wanting to see just how brave she is.
Judging from her rigid stance, she wants to fight, but her own curiosity keeps her from saying the words.
“Mhh …” Shaking my head, I start to slowly move closer until there’s only a breath of air between us. Our eyes lock, and then I murmur, “I get the feeling you’re just as interested as I am. I dare you to deny it.”
Her soft scent fills my nostrils—sweat and perfume in equal measure. It’s feminine and alluring. My cock strains against the fabric of my pants, and for a moment, I’ve forgotten all about the goddamned Irish, about the electronics shipment and the weapons I need to collect… about everything outside this room.
There’s only this girl with the defiant look in her eyes and body made for sinful nights. Slowly, I lower my gaze, again reveling in the sight of her curves all the way down to her creamy white thighs on full display due to her short skirt.
What it would feel like to have those thighs wrapped around my neck while I feast on her pussy.
This is out of character for me. I’m always in control of my emotions, of everything, but with this girl, I want to say fuck it all and give in to the lust she makes me feel.
Would she stop me if I took her right here?
I’m too far gone to wonder about what the hell I’m doing in this room with this girl or to ask myself why I’m having such a strong reaction to her.
“Why are you looking at me like that?” she asks, her voice nothing but a choked whisper, and fuck, it turns me on even more.
Leaning a little down, I bring my eyes back to hers and take a deep breath of her soft, intoxicating scent. “In my line of work, a man quickly learns how to read people,” I murmur, keeping my tone intimate. It makes her pupils dilate as she stares up at me. “What they want. Their fears… and your body is screaming with need, which is a total contradiction to what you’d like me to believe.”
Read it now 👉 http://bit.ly/soldbookamazon
[image error]
[image error]
EXCERPT:
I stop outside the VIP room, and the corner of my mouth lifts as I push the door open. Stepping into the luxurious room, I instantly lock my eyes on my prey.
The girl lifts the tray in front of her as if she’s thinking about using it against me as well.
I let out an amused chuckle. “ Is that supposed to intimidate me?”
“Back off,” she threatens even though there’s a tremble in her voice.
Even though she’s scared, her eyes are filled with fire.
God, it’s a turn-on.
Wanting to set her at ease, I say, “Relax. I’m not going to hurt you.”
“Then why did you follow me?” she demands, lifting her chin an inch.
The corner of my mouth lifts again, amused by her display of bravery. “What’s your name, kitten?”
“Why do you care?” Then she scowls at me. “And don’t call me kitten.”
“Just curious.” I step inside the room and shut the door behind me, which makes the girl stiffen.
“Who are you, and what do you want?”
“Marcello.” I let my name drift over my lips.
What do I want?
Her.
To my surprise, she lets out a burst of laughter. “Yeah, right,” she scoffs. “And I’m freaking Cleopatra.”
I tilt my head to the side, my eyes narrowing on her. “Is there something funny about my name?”
Her gaze glides over me. “The expensive suit, the accent, the name … If you’re going to cosplay as some big bad Mafia guy, I’d try to be a little more subtle about things, you know?”
Hmm … so she doesn’t even know.
Most men here would recognize me in a heartbeat, even the drunken bastards, which means this girl is not a part of this world I’m in. Yet she works at this club, the one place where all dirty deals are made. Interesting. What is she doing here?
Moving closer, I take a seat on the couch a couple of feet away from her. She stiffens again, but when I make myself comfortable, unbuttoning my jacket, she seems to relax a little. Enough to lower the tray.
I drink in the sight of her, and now that we’re close, I can appreciate just how stunning she is. Taking a deep breath, I say, “I assure you, kitten, I’m not playing at anything.”
“I told you to stop calling me that.”
“What?” I ask, feigning ignorance.
“Kitten.” Her voice is sharp and aggressive, but I see the fear dancing in her eyes. There’s also curiosity, which means she’s not as cold toward me as she’d like me to believe.
A smile tugs at my mouth as I play with her. “But I don’t know your name. What else am I supposed to call you?”
“Definitely not that.” Her eyebrows are a sharp downward V. Intense, unafraid.
It doesn’t escape my attention that she’s not telling me her name.
I rise to my full height, and it forces her to tilt her head back to keep eye contact with me. “Tell me something, kitten.”
She furrows her brows more.
“If you are so frightened of me—”
“I’m not,” she grinds the words out between clenched teeth.
“Then tell me to leave,” I dare her, wanting to see just how brave she is.
Judging from her rigid stance, she wants to fight, but her own curiosity keeps her from saying the words.
“Mhh …” Shaking my head, I start to slowly move closer until there’s only a breath of air between us. Our eyes lock, and then I murmur, “I get the feeling you’re just as interested as I am. I dare you to deny it.”
Her soft scent fills my nostrils—sweat and perfume in equal measure. It’s feminine and alluring. My cock strains against the fabric of my pants, and for a moment, I’ve forgotten all about the goddamned Irish, about the electronics shipment and the weapons I need to collect… about everything outside this room.
There’s only this girl with the defiant look in her eyes and body made for sinful nights. Slowly, I lower my gaze, again reveling in the sight of her curves all the way down to her creamy white thighs on full display due to her short skirt.
What it would feel like to have those thighs wrapped around my neck while I feast on her pussy.
This is out of character for me. I’m always in control of my emotions, of everything, but with this girl, I want to say fuck it all and give in to the lust she makes me feel.
Would she stop me if I took her right here?
I’m too far gone to wonder about what the hell I’m doing in this room with this girl or to ask myself why I’m having such a strong reaction to her.
“Why are you looking at me like that?” she asks, her voice nothing but a choked whisper, and fuck, it turns me on even more.
Leaning a little down, I bring my eyes back to hers and take a deep breath of her soft, intoxicating scent. “In my line of work, a man quickly learns how to read people,” I murmur, keeping my tone intimate. It makes her pupils dilate as she stares up at me. “What they want. Their fears… and your body is screaming with need, which is a total contradiction to what you’d like me to believe.”
March 1, 2024
Sold by Clarissa Wild is a deliciously spicy dark mafia romance. Well written with a cracking plot twist, this book is a red flag lovers dream. Possessive men who literally love to own you? Sign me up! I’m excited to listen to the next book when it’s released.
I listened to the audiobook which is amazingly narrated in duet by Ehlen Valentine and Gideon Frost. Ehlen is a new to me narrator and I absolutely loved her performance as Harper. Her expressiveness when it comes to Harper’s anger and frustration was spot on. I look forward to hearing more of her work. Gideon’s performance of Marcello is an audiobook lovers dream. All growly but silky smooth too. I love how he says kitten!
Book: 5/5
Spice: 4/5
Narration: 5/5
I’d like to thank Sparks Fly Studios for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.
I listened to the audiobook which is amazingly narrated in duet by Ehlen Valentine and Gideon Frost. Ehlen is a new to me narrator and I absolutely loved her performance as Harper. Her expressiveness when it comes to Harper’s anger and frustration was spot on. I look forward to hearing more of her work. Gideon’s performance of Marcello is an audiobook lovers dream. All growly but silky smooth too. I love how he says kitten!
Book: 5/5
Spice: 4/5
Narration: 5/5
I’d like to thank Sparks Fly Studios for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.
September 27, 2021
Marcello Delluci is the mafia don. He has control over everything except maybe his heart. When he sees a innocent girl named Harper in a certain auction he wants nothing more than to make her his! What will he do to his new pet? All Harper wanted was answers to what happened to her parents. Too bad noising around puts her in a very bad position. Can Harper find what she is looking for? This is book one in the Delluci mafia duet. Get ready as this is full of mafia wars and mysteries that need to be solved. There are many dark themes and situations in this D/s captive romance. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next books as this ends on a cliffhanger. Told in dual POV
May 10, 2022
WTF did I just read?
TSTL both H and h. Where the h is the most kind of fake-feisty. And H is just.. one of those who shouts "Do you know who I am"🙈
A mafia of people who are behaving like 5 year olds (other than s€x).
Oh and he bought the h for 1 million dollars, so he cannot afford the guns anymore. And can't find where to buy them so, sad, poor mafia don🥲
And the plot doesn't make bloody sense whatsoever.
TSTL both H and h. Where the h is the most kind of fake-feisty. And H is just.. one of those who shouts "Do you know who I am"🙈
A mafia of people who are behaving like 5 year olds (other than s€x).
Oh and he bought the h for 1 million dollars, so he cannot afford the guns anymore. And can't find where to buy them so, sad, poor mafia don🥲
And the plot doesn't make bloody sense whatsoever.
September 27, 2021
A mafia don. A kidnapping. An auction. Written by Clarissa Wild. I don’t need more arguments than that for it to become an auto-read for me. And what can I say? The first half of Harper and Marcello’s story got me hook, line, and sinker. Captivating – pun intended, lol – from the first word to the last.
Harper Fitzgerald is a self-defense instructor, teaching everyone who is willing to learn how to protect themselves when getting attacked. It’s an honorable job for sure, but it’s her tragic past that made her choose this route, all while never giving up on her quest to find answers about what happened to her parents, no matter the danger …
Marcello Dellucci is a dangerous man not to be messed with who rules his empire with an iron fist. As the newly crowned Don of the Dellucci mafia, he is controlling and ruthless. And he needs to be, because trouble is fast approaching. The last thing he needs is becoming fixated on some beautiful, innocent woman. But then an opportunity too good to pass up arises for him to make her his …
A battle of wills. Sizzling chemistry. Animosity. Mafia wars. Revenge. Lies. Betrayal. Suspense. Oh-so steamy sex. This book has all that and more and I’m glad book two already sits on my kindle, ready to be devoured.
Harper Fitzgerald is a self-defense instructor, teaching everyone who is willing to learn how to protect themselves when getting attacked. It’s an honorable job for sure, but it’s her tragic past that made her choose this route, all while never giving up on her quest to find answers about what happened to her parents, no matter the danger …
Marcello Dellucci is a dangerous man not to be messed with who rules his empire with an iron fist. As the newly crowned Don of the Dellucci mafia, he is controlling and ruthless. And he needs to be, because trouble is fast approaching. The last thing he needs is becoming fixated on some beautiful, innocent woman. But then an opportunity too good to pass up arises for him to make her his …
A battle of wills. Sizzling chemistry. Animosity. Mafia wars. Revenge. Lies. Betrayal. Suspense. Oh-so steamy sex. This book has all that and more and I’m glad book two already sits on my kindle, ready to be devoured.
September 30, 2021
Sorry but not for me.
I like Dark and Mafia and liked the sound of the book.
Marcello a mafia Don and Harper, meet for the first time when there eyes lock in a seedy strip club. Harper is trying to find out who killed her parents when she was just a child and a PI she hired steered her to the club. She sneaks in a back door and there just happens to be a vacancy and she just happens to get the job !!!! On the spot, obviously the only criteria is that the uniform fits !!!!
The club is then raided by the Bratva and she is taken along with the other hostesses!!! and the Irish Mafia owners of the club. She is loaded onto a boat and put up for auction. It just so happens Marcello is at the auction and buys her.
Apart from shoot outs and odd killing, that’s about as much Mafia. I was waiting for the book to take off but i was bored. I kept flicking through my kindle and when it got close to the end, where Harper is a stowaway, i thought maybe it would get better, but to be honest, I was deflated. I know it ended with a part 2, but I won’t be bothering.
I really think I’ve read a different book to the other people who reviewed the book. We are all individuals and like what we like. As always, read for yourself and make your own mind up.
I like Dark and Mafia and liked the sound of the book.
Marcello a mafia Don and Harper, meet for the first time when there eyes lock in a seedy strip club. Harper is trying to find out who killed her parents when she was just a child and a PI she hired steered her to the club. She sneaks in a back door and there just happens to be a vacancy and she just happens to get the job !!!! On the spot, obviously the only criteria is that the uniform fits !!!!
The club is then raided by the Bratva and she is taken along with the other hostesses!!! and the Irish Mafia owners of the club. She is loaded onto a boat and put up for auction. It just so happens Marcello is at the auction and buys her.
Apart from shoot outs and odd killing, that’s about as much Mafia. I was waiting for the book to take off but i was bored. I kept flicking through my kindle and when it got close to the end, where Harper is a stowaway, i thought maybe it would get better, but to be honest, I was deflated. I know it ended with a part 2, but I won’t be bothering.
I really think I’ve read a different book to the other people who reviewed the book. We are all individuals and like what we like. As always, read for yourself and make your own mind up.
September 27, 2021
Sold by Clarissa Wild is the First book in the Dellucci Mafia Duet (Dark Mafia Romance Series). This is Marcello and Harper's story. Marcello Dellucci is the head of the Italian Mafia and he is attending an "auction " when he sees "her"... and nothing will stop him from possessing her and making her HIS!! Harper just is at the auction trying to find answers as to what happened to her parents but her curiosity, her many questions put her in a very bad way. Does she find her answers? This story has everything that makes it a steamy Mafia to die for! Angst, secrets, twists, chemistry, heat, feels, obsession, possession, kidnapping, dark romance, themes of D/s...so much more. Loved the ending! Can't wait for book 2 which isn't far away.
My Rating: 4.5 stars *********
My Rating: 4.5 stars *********
February 28, 2024
I just finished the audiobook. Their voices are nice to hear. The voice actors did a really good job it was exactly the way i heard them in my mind when i read the hardback version of this book. The story was well written. Well everything clarissa is writting this far is very good in my opion!!
March 2, 2024
I listened to the audiobook, and it was steamy and filled with tension. A great listen, leaving my face red and wanting to hear more. I'm never disappointed in anything Clarissa Wild makes because she's an amazing author.
August 9, 2024
I loved this book. It was a bit slow after I've read sick and evil boys by clarissa wild. So I had to down the doorknob 🤣
September 27, 2021
Marcello & Harper’s Story Starts Out With A Bang In This Exciting Mafia Romance! Their Chemistry Is Undeniable, But Harper Hates Herself For Being Attracted To The Evil Man Who Bought Her, So She Stubbornly Resists. Marcello, Too, Tries To Deny How He Fells About His Captive; He Cannot Afford A Distraction With A Mafia War Brewing. Their Story Ends In A Cliffhanger.
Marcello Dellucci, probably in his thirties, is the cold and calculating Don of the Italian mafia. He is working on an arms deal to ensure the safety of his next big shipment. He wants power, and he is close to achieving it. He nearly dominated the underworld a decade ago when he was young and eager to prove himself to his parents. Things went downhill unexpectedly, though. Since then, he made a vow to himself to never be vulnerable again. He tries to push the pain down with liquor and focused attention. He has a good team and a trusted consigliere – Claudio, his second in command. A meeting with the Duffy brothers of the Irish mafia should leave him with enough arms for protection. So when the waitress at Bottoms Up catches his attention, he isn’t prepared for his reaction to her. Something about her distracts him from the business he went there to take care of.
Harper Fitzgerald, probably in her twenties, is determined to find those responsible for the death of her parents ten years ago. She trains relentlessly because she learned the hard way how important it is to be able to defend yourself. She works at HIIT Hard Tactical, where she trains people in self-defense along with a few other crafty skills that a victim might need to know. She has hired a string of private investigators to dig up information about who set fire to her house when she was a child, killing her parents. It haunts her to this day that she was unable to save them herself. The only thing she had to go on was the tattoo on the back of the man that carried her to safety. She has accumulated a few shreds of information here and there over the years, but the investigators seem to shy away from the case once they begin looking, suggesting instead that she leave things alone. Her adoptive mother, Andrea, tells her to let it go, too, but Harper is as determined as ever to seek justice.
When the latest PI gives Harper the name of a club associated with some suspects, she decides to do a stakeout. But Bottoms Up is a rough establishment, and to avoid trouble she claims to be there about a job. She takes advantage of her new position as a waitress to do a little investigating, but one man in particular grabs her attention – and he is one of the men suspected of being involved the night of the fire. She hates herself for how attracted she feels to him, but there is no denying their connection.
When things go south and Marcello’s deal with the Irish falls through, he still cannot get his mind off of that waitress. So when business takes him into the lair of the Russian bratva to strike a deal with Igor, their leader, it must be fate when she shows up again. This time, however, she is for sale. Marcello is determined to make Harper his and save her from a horrible situation, but in doing so he takes his eye off the ball. Harper will either be his undoing, or she will be the one to bring happiness back into his life. He faces big challenges, but sometimes he wishes he could escape it all – and Harper is the ultimate distraction. The couple faces issues of trust while Marcello tries to stay alive in a new mafia war that leaves him on the defensive. The story ends in a cliffhanger, to be continued in book two, Owned.
Marcello and Harper’s mafia romance is an enemies-to-lovers story with plenty of steamy chemistry amidst a tense backdrop of murder and mafia wars. Marcello is cold, yet there seems to be another side of him, perhaps a more natural side that he hides from almost everyone. The relationship he has with Mario, his caretaker, is peculiar but touching. As the story goes deeper, the evidence of Marcello’s ties to Harper begins to surface, unraveling the mystery that keeps you turning the pages. Harper’s parents, Molly and Frank Fitzgerald, are another mystery to be solved. It will be exciting to read book two and discover all the answers.
A few issues merit mention. First, there are timeline inconsistencies. The pivotal events that took place ten years ago – the Harper’s fire and Marcello’s incident - are often referenced as having taken place fifteen years ago instead. Although it is possible that the two incidents did not roughly coincide, it seems improbable. In addition, my ARC copy had occasional errors, though I imagine it will be cleaned up in the published version.
Marcello and Harper’s story starts out with a bang in this exciting mafia romance. Their chemistry is undeniable, but Harper hates herself for being attracted to the evil man who bought her, so she stubbornly resists. Marcello, too, tries to deny how he feels about his captive; he cannot afford a distraction with a mafia war brewing. Their story ends in a cliffhanger. The story is plot-driven, with plenty of exciting twists and turns. It is written in first person. The POV alternates between Marcello and Harper. I rate this book four stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marcello Dellucci, probably in his thirties, is the cold and calculating Don of the Italian mafia. He is working on an arms deal to ensure the safety of his next big shipment. He wants power, and he is close to achieving it. He nearly dominated the underworld a decade ago when he was young and eager to prove himself to his parents. Things went downhill unexpectedly, though. Since then, he made a vow to himself to never be vulnerable again. He tries to push the pain down with liquor and focused attention. He has a good team and a trusted consigliere – Claudio, his second in command. A meeting with the Duffy brothers of the Irish mafia should leave him with enough arms for protection. So when the waitress at Bottoms Up catches his attention, he isn’t prepared for his reaction to her. Something about her distracts him from the business he went there to take care of.
Harper Fitzgerald, probably in her twenties, is determined to find those responsible for the death of her parents ten years ago. She trains relentlessly because she learned the hard way how important it is to be able to defend yourself. She works at HIIT Hard Tactical, where she trains people in self-defense along with a few other crafty skills that a victim might need to know. She has hired a string of private investigators to dig up information about who set fire to her house when she was a child, killing her parents. It haunts her to this day that she was unable to save them herself. The only thing she had to go on was the tattoo on the back of the man that carried her to safety. She has accumulated a few shreds of information here and there over the years, but the investigators seem to shy away from the case once they begin looking, suggesting instead that she leave things alone. Her adoptive mother, Andrea, tells her to let it go, too, but Harper is as determined as ever to seek justice.
When the latest PI gives Harper the name of a club associated with some suspects, she decides to do a stakeout. But Bottoms Up is a rough establishment, and to avoid trouble she claims to be there about a job. She takes advantage of her new position as a waitress to do a little investigating, but one man in particular grabs her attention – and he is one of the men suspected of being involved the night of the fire. She hates herself for how attracted she feels to him, but there is no denying their connection.
When things go south and Marcello’s deal with the Irish falls through, he still cannot get his mind off of that waitress. So when business takes him into the lair of the Russian bratva to strike a deal with Igor, their leader, it must be fate when she shows up again. This time, however, she is for sale. Marcello is determined to make Harper his and save her from a horrible situation, but in doing so he takes his eye off the ball. Harper will either be his undoing, or she will be the one to bring happiness back into his life. He faces big challenges, but sometimes he wishes he could escape it all – and Harper is the ultimate distraction. The couple faces issues of trust while Marcello tries to stay alive in a new mafia war that leaves him on the defensive. The story ends in a cliffhanger, to be continued in book two, Owned.
Marcello and Harper’s mafia romance is an enemies-to-lovers story with plenty of steamy chemistry amidst a tense backdrop of murder and mafia wars. Marcello is cold, yet there seems to be another side of him, perhaps a more natural side that he hides from almost everyone. The relationship he has with Mario, his caretaker, is peculiar but touching. As the story goes deeper, the evidence of Marcello’s ties to Harper begins to surface, unraveling the mystery that keeps you turning the pages. Harper’s parents, Molly and Frank Fitzgerald, are another mystery to be solved. It will be exciting to read book two and discover all the answers.
A few issues merit mention. First, there are timeline inconsistencies. The pivotal events that took place ten years ago – the Harper’s fire and Marcello’s incident - are often referenced as having taken place fifteen years ago instead. Although it is possible that the two incidents did not roughly coincide, it seems improbable. In addition, my ARC copy had occasional errors, though I imagine it will be cleaned up in the published version.
Marcello and Harper’s story starts out with a bang in this exciting mafia romance. Their chemistry is undeniable, but Harper hates herself for being attracted to the evil man who bought her, so she stubbornly resists. Marcello, too, tries to deny how he feels about his captive; he cannot afford a distraction with a mafia war brewing. Their story ends in a cliffhanger. The story is plot-driven, with plenty of exciting twists and turns. It is written in first person. The POV alternates between Marcello and Harper. I rate this book four stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2021
Devoured this Action packed ride filled with mafia drama and secrets 😍😍
Harper is a strong girl who teaches self defense and herself works out to be strong. Her past has made her feel weak and she never wants to see herself in a vulnerable state ever again. So she works to make her body stronger and at the same time works to find out the truth about what actually happened to her parents.
In her quest to find answers she gets unknowingly entangled in the Mafia world. When she first laid eyes on the mystery man at the bar where she's come to spy, she never expected the mystery man's eyes to lure her and call on to her.
Marcello doesn't like been made to wait for a business call as it makes him look easy to defy. But what he didn't expect was to find a girl whom he can't stop thinking about and can't seem to be able to take his eyes off her.
One accidental meeting until Marcello has to flee away but not before he swears that after all is done he will come back to find the girl who has captured his attention completely.
Marcello has a lot of things on his plate. Business is dealing with a lot of problems and solving them. As the head of mafia all responsibilities fall on him. But he never expects to find his girl in the most unexpected circumstances when all he'd come for was dealings with the Russian mafia but instead finds his girl on stage been auctioned off.
Ahhhh... From there starts Marcello and Harper's story. But this book is so much more than that and I felt their relationship is just a part of the big picture and so many things going on.
I loved the suspense and the lots and lots of action going as we get to witness Marcello handling his business, dealing with traitors and going to war with the enemy.
This book I felt was more about Marcello, the head of the Mafia and I freaking loved seeing him in action, handling all the things, how the head of the main mafioso worked, so many things going on and amidst all this finding himself insanely feeling things for a girl who was only meant to be his pet to play with.
Harper just wants to be free and get her life back and find out the mystery behind what happened years ago. But now she's falling for a man who's hiding so many secrets from her and might just end her world completely.
There's war on the horizon and Marcello has never been one to back down. But this one might be the most difficult one as he doesn't know what awaits him. But what happens....... THE FREAKING SECRETS...I NEVER SAW THAT COMING... I WAS LIKE.. WHAT😳😳😳😳.....learning things, secrets been exposed left and right, hanging onto this ride barely and freaking enjoying every second at the same time.
THAT FREAKING ENDING IS SOOOOO GOOD..... SO MUCH OF ACTION AND THRILL IS GOING ON... AND I WAS SCARED AND NERVOUS YET I COULN'T READ FAST ENOUGH TO FIND OUT WHAT WILL HAPPEN NEXT.... 😍😍😍
I can't wait to get my hands on book 2. Can't wait to devour more of Marcello and Harper. Loved loved this one. 💋💋❤️❤️
Harper is a strong girl who teaches self defense and herself works out to be strong. Her past has made her feel weak and she never wants to see herself in a vulnerable state ever again. So she works to make her body stronger and at the same time works to find out the truth about what actually happened to her parents.
In her quest to find answers she gets unknowingly entangled in the Mafia world. When she first laid eyes on the mystery man at the bar where she's come to spy, she never expected the mystery man's eyes to lure her and call on to her.
Marcello doesn't like been made to wait for a business call as it makes him look easy to defy. But what he didn't expect was to find a girl whom he can't stop thinking about and can't seem to be able to take his eyes off her.
One accidental meeting until Marcello has to flee away but not before he swears that after all is done he will come back to find the girl who has captured his attention completely.
Marcello has a lot of things on his plate. Business is dealing with a lot of problems and solving them. As the head of mafia all responsibilities fall on him. But he never expects to find his girl in the most unexpected circumstances when all he'd come for was dealings with the Russian mafia but instead finds his girl on stage been auctioned off.
Ahhhh... From there starts Marcello and Harper's story. But this book is so much more than that and I felt their relationship is just a part of the big picture and so many things going on.
I loved the suspense and the lots and lots of action going as we get to witness Marcello handling his business, dealing with traitors and going to war with the enemy.
This book I felt was more about Marcello, the head of the Mafia and I freaking loved seeing him in action, handling all the things, how the head of the main mafioso worked, so many things going on and amidst all this finding himself insanely feeling things for a girl who was only meant to be his pet to play with.
Harper just wants to be free and get her life back and find out the mystery behind what happened years ago. But now she's falling for a man who's hiding so many secrets from her and might just end her world completely.
There's war on the horizon and Marcello has never been one to back down. But this one might be the most difficult one as he doesn't know what awaits him. But what happens....... THE FREAKING SECRETS...I NEVER SAW THAT COMING... I WAS LIKE.. WHAT😳😳😳😳.....learning things, secrets been exposed left and right, hanging onto this ride barely and freaking enjoying every second at the same time.
THAT FREAKING ENDING IS SOOOOO GOOD..... SO MUCH OF ACTION AND THRILL IS GOING ON... AND I WAS SCARED AND NERVOUS YET I COULN'T READ FAST ENOUGH TO FIND OUT WHAT WILL HAPPEN NEXT.... 😍😍😍
I can't wait to get my hands on book 2. Can't wait to devour more of Marcello and Harper. Loved loved this one. 💋💋❤️❤️
September 27, 2021
I simply adore Clarissa Wild's books. I always - without exception - jump on any chance to read one of her ARCs. So let's just preface my review with that. I recommend her books to anyone who likes Mafia or Dark romances.
Sold has her definitive stamp on it, yet has its own flavor. Harper is a much stronger heroine than in her other Mafia/"The Family" stories. The book starts with her prowess in the gym and then moves to her unrelenting search for her family's killer.
The world around me is bright, and even though my eyes are closed, it feels as though I’m staring straight into the sun. All the colors of the rainbow wrap around me, caressing me with a soft embrace like a warm blanket covering me.
She soon finds herself within the sights of Marcello Dellucci. He's instantly enamoured of her and knows they'll have some kind of future relationship. Such is the mindset of Marcello Dellucci.
However, that plan is foiled and they are very quickly parted.
Unfortunate circumstances on both sides lead to them finally coming together, and it's definitely not the easiest of pairings. They both have to fight for what they want, and it's a pretty equal battle of wills as far as determination goes.
I loved how Harper carried herself no matter what the situation, and that she didn't simply fall into Marcello's arms. In fact, by the end of the VERY cliffhangery ending, she's trying to again find more answers about the mysteries that surround her life.
I've already started Owned and it's ramping up in the greatest way.
I'm giving Sold five cups of terrible tasting tea.
February 25, 2024
ALC Review
Book: Sold
Author: Clarissa Wild
Narrators: Ehlen Valentine & Gideon Frost
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Firstly this is the first time I’ve fallen into the Clarissa Wild world. It’s also the first time I’ve heard Ehlen Valentine and Gideon Grist narrate anything and I’m pretty sure I’ve not listened to them for the last time.
If you enjoy a strong mafia man who is obsessed with a woman who he bought in an auction, then this is your kind of book.
Harper is a sweet, innocent, and naive woman who is trying to figure out who killed her parents. Marcello is part of the reason her parents were killed.
The further I got into the story, the more I love it. It’s the twists, turns, and spice for me. Marcello had a dirty mouth and an obsession with calling Harper Kitten. 🫠🫠
Overall, I enjoyed this audiobook and would love to hear more from this author and the narrators!
Thank you SparksFly Studios for the ALC!!
Book: Sold
Author: Clarissa Wild
Narrators: Ehlen Valentine & Gideon Frost
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Firstly this is the first time I’ve fallen into the Clarissa Wild world. It’s also the first time I’ve heard Ehlen Valentine and Gideon Grist narrate anything and I’m pretty sure I’ve not listened to them for the last time.
If you enjoy a strong mafia man who is obsessed with a woman who he bought in an auction, then this is your kind of book.
Harper is a sweet, innocent, and naive woman who is trying to figure out who killed her parents. Marcello is part of the reason her parents were killed.
The further I got into the story, the more I love it. It’s the twists, turns, and spice for me. Marcello had a dirty mouth and an obsession with calling Harper Kitten. 🫠🫠
Overall, I enjoyed this audiobook and would love to hear more from this author and the narrators!
Thank you SparksFly Studios for the ALC!!
March 2, 2024
I had no idea it would end like this!!!!!
Okay, so I had the privilege to listen to this audiobook early, and let me tell you one thing: this audiobook was top-notch. I enjoyed listening to the narrators so much. It was duet narration and the narrators did all the accent was great talent I was so impressed.
As for the story, it was good and enjoyable. It might have had some clichés, but I still enjoyed it, and there were some plot twists I hadn't expected. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series, but I might still wait for the audiobook because I wouldn't miss this experience for anything.
Okay, so I had the privilege to listen to this audiobook early, and let me tell you one thing: this audiobook was top-notch. I enjoyed listening to the narrators so much. It was duet narration and the narrators did all the accent was great talent I was so impressed.
As for the story, it was good and enjoyable. It might have had some clichés, but I still enjoyed it, and there were some plot twists I hadn't expected. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series, but I might still wait for the audiobook because I wouldn't miss this experience for anything.
October 3, 2021
Where to begin with this incredible read that has left me open mouthed and needing Owned. Harper and Marcello's story is one that left me on the edge of my seat. The chemistry and tension between these two was off the charts and I loved how different their backgrounds are. There are so many surprises and twists in this story that will have you devouring each page and needing more. Please release Owned soon!!!
September 28, 2021
Marcello is the new Don of the Dellucci family and when he sees Harper on the auction stage, he knows that he wants her for her own. Neither are happy that they are attracted to one another but they can’t deny how they feel either. Fast-paced and action-packed mafia read with loads of drama, suspense and sizzling scenes. I was hooked from beginning to end. I loved it.
September 28, 2021
This story had me so addicted. The more I read Wild's books the more I need me a bada$$ mafia man like Marcello Dellucci. I loved seeing the pull that he had, the pull to not become addicted to Harper. I have to say at times I said WTF Harper, but I fell in love with the story line and I cannot wait to finish the conclusion.
March 9, 2026
I dnf it. I made it to page 5 before I was bored. Shame it looked promising but if it's not capturing my attention from page one it's a no from me.
September 27, 2021
I love me some mafia romance. Action packed, full of heat, anger and revenge. Those plus so much more as Harper sets out to find her parent's killer. Meeting Marcello wasn't in the plan, but seeing him at that bar set her world to tilt on it's axis!! I always say I hate duets and series, simply because I am ridiculously impatient. But. The fact of the matter is. All this awesome couldn't be condensed and I can't wait for more!!
November 1, 2023
I hate it when an author can't be original and make the women do stupid things like at the end of this book. The women "always" run away. I can't help but shake me head.
September 26, 2021
10 Sold Stars🌟
Wow, I absolutely loved the first book in this series by Clarissa, it captivated me from the first chapter and kept me enthralled right to the end❣️
Harper is on a mission to discover who murdered her parents and avenge them. However, her mission puts her on the frontline of danger and she soon finds herself in a perilous position and reliant on a man she’s met once and listed after, to save her😳
I’m so happy we don’t have to wait long for the next book as I’m super excited to find out what happens to Harper and Marcello next😍 I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review❤️
Wow, I absolutely loved the first book in this series by Clarissa, it captivated me from the first chapter and kept me enthralled right to the end❣️
Harper is on a mission to discover who murdered her parents and avenge them. However, her mission puts her on the frontline of danger and she soon finds herself in a perilous position and reliant on a man she’s met once and listed after, to save her😳
I’m so happy we don’t have to wait long for the next book as I’m super excited to find out what happens to Harper and Marcello next😍 I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review❤️
November 9, 2023
DNF This is a good author but this book just didn't do it for me. I felt the writing did not flow, (it didn't make sense or add up), the timing throughout the book was off and the facts were skewed or poorly presented. The character description didn't support the book blurb. It's a slow moving story that seems unnecessarily drawn out. Marcello's attraction to her seems strictly sexual/lust. His character loves violence and killing which seems to be his bedfellow, not Harper or any woman. His character doesn't strike me as a guy who falls in love. He's a hypocrite, in that he doesn't get involved in the sex trade. He turns a blind eye to it until he recognizes Harper on the stage. Both character's were laced with contradiction's.
Harper is penned as a very tough take charge woman who is trained in martial arts as well as self-defense. That certainly wasn't the case since she couldn't even begin to protect herself while in the bar/sex club which results in her being abducted and put up for auction. Throughout the portion I read THAT character never surfaced. She's determined to find who killed her parents but, doesn't seem to have a doable plan and flies by the seat of her pants which results in how she gets "sold" to Marcello. Her character doesn't fit the "take charge, think on your feet" heroine I expected.
I started to read this book based on the reviews and the author. I expect a high quality in my Mafia genre, so some may find this book appealing. It just fell flat for me.
Harper is penned as a very tough take charge woman who is trained in martial arts as well as self-defense. That certainly wasn't the case since she couldn't even begin to protect herself while in the bar/sex club which results in her being abducted and put up for auction. Throughout the portion I read THAT character never surfaced. She's determined to find who killed her parents but, doesn't seem to have a doable plan and flies by the seat of her pants which results in how she gets "sold" to Marcello. Her character doesn't fit the "take charge, think on your feet" heroine I expected.
I started to read this book based on the reviews and the author. I expect a high quality in my Mafia genre, so some may find this book appealing. It just fell flat for me.
September 30, 2021
Sold is the first part of a mobster duet following young Harper's quest for answers. Her parents mysteriously die in a fire and she's hunting down anyone with a connection to them. This leads to a short encounter with Italian Don Marcello at a club. There she is taken Captive and sold at an auction Marcello happens to be at. He remembers the girl from the club and buys her at the auction. Harper isnt ready to give up on getting her freedom or the answers she is looking for regardless of the danger that comes with it. Harper is feisty and headstrong but definitely struggles with her attraction to Marcello. Marcello tries to stay focused on being the mob king and learning who is the mole in his group, but finds himself constantly thinking of Harper. She seems to soften his emotions. I enjoyed this book and the cliffhanger it left off on. I'm definitely ready for Owned!
October 1, 2021
DNF 38% through. I know I'm in the minority about this book but I just can't get past the authors writing style. The characters never resonate with me. Or maybe it's the depth and presentation of the characters.
The book takes off like a bat out of hell and we quickly get to the point where Marcello buys Harper at an auction. She's trying to avenge her dead parents death and thinks her captor is somehow involved. Maybe I didn't give the book enough time. I just couldn't get past Harper's personality. She swooned when Marcello was around but had the running commentary of how much she hated him. And how she's skilled to protect herself... I wish I could put my finger on what's missing...maybe character development. ...maybe inconsistencies in thought vs action... not sure.
The book takes off like a bat out of hell and we quickly get to the point where Marcello buys Harper at an auction. She's trying to avenge her dead parents death and thinks her captor is somehow involved. Maybe I didn't give the book enough time. I just couldn't get past Harper's personality. She swooned when Marcello was around but had the running commentary of how much she hated him. And how she's skilled to protect herself... I wish I could put my finger on what's missing...maybe character development. ...maybe inconsistencies in thought vs action... not sure.
March 21, 2023
A good story. Had twists and turns I didn't see coming. The character's chemistry is well-balanced between need and hate. It was a slight slow burn and then 🔥 🔥 🔥. The book had serious spice, which I'm all for, however, I could not connect with the story. There was barely any interaction between Marcelo and Harper, yet they were falling for each other. The majority of the story focused on the mafia plot and not the couple. Harper was supposed to be this strong woman, yet her actions showed otherwise again and again.
October 8, 2021
There's a lot of internal dialog, not a lot of actual interaction between the main characters unless they are having sex. The sex scenes were lack luster and fast. There needed to be more interaction, more dialog, more detailed sex scenes, for a "spicy" romance novel, not very spicy at all. I ended up skipping paragraphs of just internal monolog just to get to the point. All of Harper's internal dialog is "I shouldn't feel this way about him but I do", it's very monotonous.
November 22, 2021
DNF
I really wanted to like this book. I was excited about reading it but was unfortunately disappointed with it. The heroine, Harper was not likable. The setting was hard to follow there was no angst or connection or real romance between the two characters and the “Mafia’ storyline was not developed and was hard to follow. When a book becomes a chore to read, it isn’t worth reading.
I really wanted to like this book. I was excited about reading it but was unfortunately disappointed with it. The heroine, Harper was not likable. The setting was hard to follow there was no angst or connection or real romance between the two characters and the “Mafia’ storyline was not developed and was hard to follow. When a book becomes a chore to read, it isn’t worth reading.
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