'Ruthless People' by J.J. McAvoy is a mafia romance novel that follows the intense and ruthless world of the Giovanni and Callahan families. The story revolves around Melody and Liam, two powerful and merciless individuals who lead rival mobs but find themselves in an arranged marriage. The book delves into themes of power, loyalty, and family, showcasing the dark and gritty side of the mafia world. The writing style is described as fast-paced, action-packed, and filled with steamy and high-octane moments that keep readers hooked from start to finish.
The characters in 'Ruthless People' are portrayed as complex and unlikeable, yet captivating in their ruthlessness and strength. Melody is depicted as a badass mafia queen, while Liam is rough around the edges but equally powerful and headstrong. The book explores their dynamic as a modern-day power couple akin to Bonnie and Clyde or Mr. and Mrs. Smith, with sharp dialogue, intense banter, and a palpable sense of tension that drives the plot forward.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Trigger warnings include graphic violence, sexual assault, and explicit language.
Has Romance?
The romance is significant in its progression despite the violent and tumultuous relationship between the two main characters.
From The Publisher:
To the outside world, they look like American Royalty, giving to charities, feeding the homeless, rebuilding the city. But behind closed doors is a constant battle for dominance between two Bosses, cultures, and hearts.
Ruthless People is a romantic crime fiction set in modern day Chicago, following the life and marriage of Melody Nicci Giovanni and Liam Callahan-rivals by blood and leaders through fear. Their marriage was arranged by their fathers in hopes to end years of bloodshed between the Irish and the Italians.
Liam, next in line to lead the Irish, believes he's getting a simple-minded wife, one he can control, one who bends to his every need . . . the complete opposite of Melody. Bred to be a Boss, a world-class marksman, master of disguise, with no mercy and no fear. Twenty-four years later, she has achieved more than any man could even dream of, killing anyone who steps in her way. She knows exactly what type of man Liam is, and she would rather die than give up the power she has spent her whole life building. But with no other family left, she must not only learn to work with Liam, but the whole Callahan clan.
The Mafia of the past is evolving, and with rival bosses gunning for them, Melody and Liam will have to figure out how to work as one to take down those who stand in their way, all while keeping up appearances.
Power, Family, and Respect are everything.
Warning: This book contains adult language and subject matter including graphic violence and explict sex that may be disturbing for some readers. This book is not intended for readers under the age of 18. more
Ratings (36)
Incredible (10) | |
Loved It (8) | |
Liked It (4) | |
It Was OK (5) | |
Did Not Like (7) | |
Hated It (2) |
Reader Stats (91):
Read It (35) | |
Want To Read (32) | |
Did Not Finish (5) | |
Not Interested (19) |
1 comment(s)
A ruthless book for ruthless people. This was incredibly good. A modern day version of The Godfather with romance.
Melody was epic. She was fierce, she was brutal and she was ruthless. I loved her humour, her unwillingness to compromise, her intelligence - I loved everything.
Liam was alright.
Lol, nah Liam was great too but I loved that when they clashed, Mel was the winner. I loved Mel putting Liam in his place. It was hilarious. They're both brutal AF and the chemistry between them is insane. If you love enemies to lovers stories, this is for you.
Honestly I have no coherent words for this book. It's intense. It's insane. It's brutal. The women are both vulnerable and vicious. The girl power is fantastic. I like that Melody inspires and encourages the women of her acquaintance to be more. To compete in a world of men. To be unapologetic for who or what they are. Whether they want to be equals or just confident in their own right. The action is fast paced and full on and riddled with revelations and treachery and backstabbing and intricate backstories and gritty violence. My mind was just completely blown by this book. I honestly can't articulate just how much I adore it.
J.J. McAvoy is an incredibly talented writer and this is an incredibly epic book. 5 stars.
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