Thorns of Death by Eva Winners

Thorns of Death is precisely the sort of mafia romance I adore: sexy and suspenseful and so full of drama. Enrico and Isla's story is deliciously addictive, and their characters and the writing are on point. Secrets abound in this dramatic mafia romance, and I absolutely loved the relationship between them. They begin by meeting by chance in Paris, and sparks fly right away. They spend one amazing night together, but the appearance of a certain someone causes Isla to get out of there quickly. Being who they are, things are complicated. Add in the fact that there are secrets and danger threatening any sort of happiness these two might have, and we've got quite a complicated romance.

I am in love with this series! The tension and drama is fantastic and keeps me on the edge of my seat with each book, but I think it's the connection between the characters that runs deep that's really what gets me. Whether it's the main characters or between them and secondary characters, the relationships in these books are truly well written and make me feel completely invested in the books. As far as the secondary characters go, Enrico and Isla's story especially gets me because of Enrico's sons and what their backstory is and how their parts in the storyline play out. I'm hopeful that one day we'll get to read their stories.

And Enrico and Isla themselves? Yes, please! Literally, every bit of their story made me want more and more of them...the conflict, the spice, the moments of tenderness. All of it. I love that he's this formidable alpha boss type, but then the sprightly Isla has the power to knock him down a bit. There's something charming and humorous about with how easily she's able to get to him. But then the way he so cares for her? Loved. It. For being so morally grey, his true feelings are so pure, and I find the juxtaposition of what he presents to the world and how he actually is absolutely endearing.

This is yet another easy 5-star read from Winners. If you enjoy this sort of romance, then you need to read this author. She writes gripping, dramatic love stories that have well-done plotlines, and just listen to me when I say you're not going to want to miss this book.