Books Like...
'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.
If you liked Ruthless People, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
'The Bloody Bride' in the series 'The Rocchetti Dynasty' by author Bree Porter follows the story of Sophia Padovino, who finds herself in an arranged marriage with the ruthless Capo of the Chicago outfit, Alessandro Rocchetti. The plot revolves around the unpredictable game of survival Sophia must play to navigate the dangerous world of the mafia, where secrets, revenge, and betrayal are common themes. The writing style keeps readers engaged with its fast-paced action, intriguing plot twists, and well-developed characters like Sophia, who evolves from a meek bride to a strong and cunning player in the mafia world.
The door whipped open and in came a stream of my female friends and family members. They pulled me from the bed and threw me into the bath. My skin was scrubbed raw and red, my legs waxed till they bl... - #2
'The Sweetest Oblivion' by Danielle Lori delves into a gripping tale of forbidden love and complex relationships within the world of mobsters and Made Men. The story follows Elena and Nico, who come from the same dangerous world but are drawn together by an irresistible and unreliable attraction, leading them to push boundaries and cross lines. As they navigate through twists and turns, including Nico being engaged to Elena's sister, the readers are taken on a gut-wrenching and teeth-clenching journey filled with suspense, tension, and passion. The writing style is described as enthralling, with perfect execution of slow-burn romance and explosive payoffs, making it a captivating read that keeps readers hooked until the end.
MY HOME WAS PICTURESQUE. A red front door with a golden knocker. Black and white checkered flooring. A wooden staircase with a lacquer shine and a sparkling chandelier. However, I’d always wondered, I... - #3
Menace is a captivating mafia romance novel that follows the story of Lorenzo Gambini, a complex and ruthless character with a scarred face who finds himself intrigued by Morgan, a strong and resilient woman on the run. Their interactions are filled with witty banter, steamy passion, and suspense as they navigate a dangerous game of cat and mouse. The book delves into the dark and gritty world of the mafia, portraying the dynamics between the characters with humor and intensity. J.M. Darhower's writing style shines through with impeccable flow, engaging dialogue, and a perfect balance of violence, passion, and suspense.
Her mother smiled—a big, wide kind of smile—but it wasn’t the kind of smile that meant happiness. Rain fell outside, a steady, heavy downpour, battering the windows as the trees blew all around. Their... The Risk by S.T. Abby follows Lana, a girl seeking revenge on those who left her for dead, catching them off guard until it's too late. Her path crosses with Logan, an FBI agent whom she may be falling for. The book is described as suspenseful, with an intense dichotomy between Lana's character and Logan's, featuring a cliffhanger ending that leaves readers eager for the next installment. The writing style is praised for being engaging and flowy, capturing the attention of readers with its quick pace and captivating storyline.
His attempt at flattery is overtly untrained and certainly underdeveloped. He’s obviously used to getting his way without much of a fuss, which means he never puts forth any effort after catching his ...- #5
Brutal Prince by Sophie Lark is a mafia romance novel that delves into the arranged marriage between Aida Gallo, a strong and carefree daughter of the Italian mafia boss, and Callum Griffin, the reserved and cruel son of the Irish mafia boss. The story follows their tumultuous relationship as they navigate their forced marriage, enemies to lovers dynamic, and the generational rivalry between their families, filled with passion, violence, and unexpected twists. The writing style of the book balances dark mafia elements with comedic undertones, creating a captivating and engaging storyline that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
Chief Superintendent Black drove his hired car up the long, private drive to the Home Secretary’s house. He glanced with pleasure at the beautiful woman occupying the seat next to his. He knew he woul... - #6
Brutal Vows by J.T. Geissinger is the fourth and final installment in the Queens and Monsters series. The story follows Spider Quinn, second in command in the Irish mob, who enters into an arranged marriage with Lili, the daughter of a Cosa Nostra Don. However, things take an unexpected turn when Spider meets Reyna, Lili's overprotective aunt known as the Black Widow. Despite their initial animosity, a forbidden and intense attraction develops between Spider and Reyna, leading to a complex and fiery relationship. The book is praised for its balance of dark themes, humor, hotness, and engaging writing style that keeps readers hooked until the end.
Take now, for instance. I’m standing across from my brother’s oak desk in his enormous wood-paneled study, staring at his face and struggling to breathe around the invisible hand squeezing my lungs. T...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Queens & Monsters ) - #7
The Predator by RuNyx is a captivating mafia romance novel that follows the story of Morana Vitalio, the daughter of a mafia boss, who is determined to retrieve deadly codes she wrote. The plot unfolds as Morana finds herself entangled with Tristan Caine, a high-ranking soldier from a rival family, as they navigate a web of betrayals, family rivalries, and a growing chemistry between them. The writing style, characterized by a third-person point of view that mostly follows Morana, keeps readers glued to the pages with its immersive storytelling and intricate character development.
The thought kept ringing through Morana's head on repeat, her nerves stretched taut even as she tried to appear aloof. Holding her full champagne glass aloft, she pretended to sip from it, her eyes co... - #8
'Dante' by Bethany-Kris is a mafia romance that tells the story of Dante Marcellos and Catrina Danzi. Catrina, a strong and independent queen pin, proposes an arranged marriage to Dante, a mafia Don, for mutual benefit. As their relationship evolves, they navigate through business dealings, secrets, and danger, all while developing a heated love story. The writing style is described as engaging, with a focus on mafia dynamics, strong female characters, and intense romance without instant love clichés.
Dante blinked, his hands balling into fists at his sides. The large wall-to-wall windows overlooked the city, a sight so familiar to him that he found it comforting. He spent eight hours a day, six da...
(Also, see 58 recommendations for the series Filthy Marcellos ) - #9
'Embrace the Darkness' follows the story of Maura Quinn, a sassy and fearless mob princess who returns home after years of being away. Facing trauma, family issues, and heartbreak, Maura is forced to ask her family for help, leading her back into the dangerous world of the Irish mafia. The plot is filled with sticky and scary situations, palpable tension, fear, chemistry, and steamy moments between Maura and Jamie, one of her father's right-hand men. delves into Maura's complex relationships with her family, her struggles with her own darkness, and the dynamics of the mafia world she is thrust back into.
The writing style of 'Embrace the Darkness' is praised for its character development, engaging plot twists, and the depiction of a flawed yet strong protagonist. The relationships between characters, especially Maura's connections with her father, Stefan, and her friends Jamie and Louie, are highlighted as key elements of the story. addresses sensitive topics like trauma, assault, and abuse, while also exploring themes of redemption, self-discovery, and the complexities of family ties within the mafia setting.
Attempting to calm myself, I relaxed my white-knuckled grasp on the car’s steering wheel and I took a deep breath. When that didn’t work, I pulled at one of the many rubber bands around my wrist. Snap... - #10
"Bound by Honor" in the series 'Born in Blood Mafia Chronicles' by author Cora Reilly follows the story of Aria, a young girl who is part of an arranged marriage between two powerful mob families. The plot delves into the complexities of mafia life, arranged marriages, alpha male characters, and the struggles faced by women in this world. The writing style captures the intense dynamics between the characters, showcasing themes of protectiveness, possessiveness, and the unexpected emotional depth within the relationships.
portrays a gritty and raw depiction of mafia life, exploring the contrast between the characters' roles as murderers, fathers, bosses, and monsters. Despite the dark themes, the story focuses on character development, relationships, and the realities of their lives, presenting a nuanced portrayal of the challenges and complexities faced by the characters in the mafia world.
I was curled up on the chaise lounge in our library, reading, when a knock sounded. Liliana’s head rested in my lap, and she didn’t even stir when the dark wooden door opened and our mother stepped in...