⭐ 3.25/5
 🌶 3.5/5 spice 

This book is definitely spicier than the first in the series.I didn't see the betrayal coming at all until it unfolded on the page (maybe I'm dumb, maybe it was well written?). It's the classic mafia romance, where the characters fall deeply in love in about five days, and while that can feel a bit rushed, the writing is strong enough to make it work despite the usual cringe that comes with that insta-love. 

The age-gap trope is definitely present here, as Max is the same age as Joey's brothers, which adds an interesting dynamic. They've grown up around each other but still, it's a bit wild how quickly they fall in love, especially after sleeping together for the first time. 

On a positive note, Joey really comes into her own in this book. She gains confidence and stands up to her brothers in ways we didn't see in the first book. I loved how she not only gets her love interest but also steps into a more active role in the family business after years of being kept at arm’s length by Dante and Lorenzo.