Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
"I think you will find it worth your time to listen to my proposition."
"What is it?" I scowl.
"Marry me. Of course, it’s only an arrangement …"

Sebastian 'grumphole' Sovrano is ruthless, arrogant, and fixated on me.
The first time we meet at a bar I dump my drink all over him.
He retaliates by following me into the ladies' ...
We seem to rub each other up the wrong way every time we are in the same room.
He's arrogant, high-handed, full of himself, and...
So very appealing.
No way can I act on the attraction that sizzles between us, right?
But I need to get custody of my daughter,
And he promises to help me.
Provided I pose as his wife.
Only problem? I can't resist his mean smirk, his wickedness that appeals to the darkness inside of me.
But when he discovers my secret, the tables are turned.
Now my fake husband is also my worst enemy...

A single mother who'll do anything for her child's happiness confronts the big bad mafia prince and teaches him the meaning of love in this standalone, enemies to lovers to enemies, hate-filled romance, with an HEA. 1-Click NOW!

324 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 21, 2022

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

L. Steele

33 books1,759 followers
L. Steele loves to write romance novels featuring powerful men and strong women who bring them to their knees. When she's not writing she enjoys trading trivia with her filmmaker husband, watching lots and lots of movies, and walking nature trails.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
815 (54%)
4 stars
381 (25%)
3 stars
174 (11%)
2 stars
76 (5%)
1 star
56 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
Profile Image for booklover1816.
345 reviews45 followers
April 15, 2022
I loved how strong and independent Elsa can be while also being vulnerable.

Seb was a typical alpha hole (Elsa definitely made sure to remind him of that lol.) He’s protective and possessive (while sometimes not even aware of it) of Elsa and Avery.

I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait for the next one!

Triggers/tropes:
* Violence
* Single mom
* BDSM
* Abuse (from past spouse)
* Edging
* Masochist(sub)/Dom
Profile Image for dea reads.
136 reviews30 followers
April 21, 2022
*ARC exchange for honest review 3.5 STARS

This book was good, it being marriage of convenience as well added to it. Sebastion is such an alphahole which I really liked and Elsa did have a backbone. I really liked how she was in the beginning esp she did not let anyone step over her, I wished it was more pursued and kept throughout rather than just the beginning. Overall it is a good book if you are looking for hard/steamy scenes as a plus, I just wished the characteristics of Elsa were more consistent, it’s as if she fell in love with Seb and didn’t have one anymore. That was my only ick in this book. Besides that it was a good book.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Connor.
1,279 reviews26 followers
April 9, 2022
The books in this series keep getting better and better, and the heroes more and more multi-dimensional. Other books in the series seem to be about 50% sex and 50% plot & character development. It feels like the ratio has shifted to 30:70, allowing Steele to delve deeper into the psyche of her characters and add more nuance. Keep in mind these percentages are purely subjective and just my impression. I might be totally off. The point is, in this book I felt like Seb is a more complicated character than any of the other Sovranos. On the other hand, maybe I just like him better.

If you read Theresa and Axel’s book, it should come as no surprise that Seb and Elsa are the stars of this one. Theresa is Elsa’s best friend and owner of the flower shop she manages. Elsa is a bit of a dark character, survivor of an abusive marriage who craves to be a submissive, but not to someone who doesn’t actually care about her. Of course, Seb is happy to oblige in both arenas. She also has a little girl who immediately gravitates to Seb, seeing the soft, gooey center at the middle of his alpha personality. I enjoyed the interactions between Seb and Avery because they highlighted his compassion and hero-complex (which I don’t mean in a negative way). In fact, it is his desire to rescue Elsa and Avery that initiates the more significant connection between them.

Fabio, Elsa’s ex-husband is the typical wife abuser—narcissistic, self-centered, unwilling to take responsibility, controlling, and a bully, with a bit of alcohol abuse thrown in for good measure. Although he could come across as one-dimensional, he doesn’t because these are characteristics that everyone who has known an abuser will recognize. It is glorious when Elsa finally reclaims her life.

As with the other books in the series, I edited this one, but there’s something about this book that I just like better than the others. I anticipate the next ones will be even better and I’m looking forward to that.
Profile Image for Abbella DiNoto.
264 reviews8 followers
April 22, 2022
Mafia Vows

I received an advanced copy free.

Well, written keeps you hanging on with baited breath and white knuckles.
I love Laxmi’s books. (she has been torturing us of late with cliffy’s)
This book Is about (SEBASTIANNO & ELSA’S Story,
*However, it still has not cleared up or answered questions from previous 5 books regarding Karma & Michael or Karma & her sister Summer (from THE previous BILLIONAIRE’S series) its a bit frustrating not to have those stories cleaned up and done. especially with the continuity issues I mention down below at end of my review.
With that said, The characters and plots, settings and the stories are all so vividly well written.
SO ELSA, is being followed by some crepo, and she goes to the house of the SAVRANO matriarch’s home, for help & safty since she knows her best friend Theresa & her new husband AXLE are there with the entire SAVRANO Mafioso la familia. She knows they with protect her. However. The moment she arrives THE CREEPS START SHOOTING and a member of the SAVRANO family is dead! This is just after they buried Zander! So another SAVRANO death. So sad. BUT IS ELSA to blame? She brought shooters to their door and now another one of their own family is dead! Elsa has secrets and a dark past, and she is about to betray the SAVRANO’s in a really big way. but not before SABASTIAN MANIPULATATES ELSA INTO MARRING HIM! Elsa has a young daughter who she is only allowed to see on the weekends. Her former husband is the polizia captain in Palermo. He is a dirty corrupt cop on the take with a rival mafia family in Palermo. (He accused Elsa of being an unfit mother) she has a proclivity for sub/dom bdsm. She is desperate for more time with Avery. And gets a job at Theresa’s flower shop to prove herself a stable influence. Which puts Elsa and her friendship with Theresa & her new marriage to Sabastiano Savrono in a postition to inform or betray the SAVRANO family in order to spend more time with her daughter or she could chose her new husband and never see her daughter again. Seb has promised a vow to get Elsa full custody of her 2 year old daughter, Avery. But is Elsa’s fear of her ex and her love for her daughter too great to trust Seb? Does he really have the power to keep his promises? Will Seb, just be another man who makes pretty promises he can’t keep? Will she lose everything including her daughter? Or will she lose the burgeoning passion & love she feels for Seb by betraying him to his and his family’s enemies?
There is light BDSM, some violence, discussions of domestic abuse, child abuse etc. this is a dark mafia romance.
You do not need to, have read the previous connected BILLIONAIRE’S series, but it does enrich the stories in the Dark Mafia Billionaires series. Trust me. Billionaires fake wife SINCLAIR & SUMMER’S STORY and ALL “THE 7” on to 9+ books. But if you are not gonna read that series it’s fine. But you definitely need to read MAFIA HEIR (technically book 1) At least, BECAUSE it is the prologue to MAFIA KING, MAFIA QUEEN, MAFIA CHRISTMAS, MAFIA CROWN In that order. MAFIA VOWS, next book is MAFIA OBSESSION
this review is for MAFIA VOWS it takes place after books 1-6 a running continuation of all previous books. it continues their story.
**HERE ARE MY ISSUES**
There is STILL NOT A PROPER continuation of Karma’s story BECAUSE Karma still has not told Michael about her heart condition! I honestly think LAXMI FOR THE SIXTH BOOK still has not handled karma’s heart condition properly since she has literally been in fight and survival mode literally daily for more than a year! Honestly it must not really be a big deal since she has not had any problems even though she did not complete her medication or therapy protocols since being kidnapped .. and how literally is she not dead? Throughout everything she has gone through up to this point. Why give a character a medical problem and tell us how serious it is, if it’s not actually a problem at all. Seriously. Some major continuity issues here. NOW IN MAFIA VOWS a very pregnant, Karma confesses to Elsa that it is sorta life threatening under certain conditions like being pregnant and still hasn’t told Michael. So annoying really giving a character a life threatening illness and then not really following it properly. The story is STILL NOT OVER CAUSE KARMA HAS YET TO RETURN HOME OR TELL HER SISTER SUMMER EVERY THING SHE HAS BEEN THOUGH AND WHILE I’M ON IT, WHAT LOVING SISTER DOES NOT CHECK ON KARMA? OR REMIND HER THAT SHE NEEDS HER MEDS? FIND OUT WHETHER OR NOT SHE COMPLETED HE PROTOCOL??? WHAT KIND OF SISTER IS SUMMER ?? Btw ELSA knows Summer, from previous series. more continuity issues cause after 5 books it should be exposed by now! But still book 6 … nothing! Karma was kidnapped by Michael (who is now her husband) and never did completed her protocol and her life has been is serious danger nonstop for nearly a year! Serious continuity issues Michael should have figured it out and he should have seen Karma’s phone, SINCE HE TOOK IT FROM HER. Summer would have been sending daily reminders about taking her medication and she has been without it for so many months she should be dead. (If she really cared about her sickly little sister) Cause she was apparently practically on deaths door just a year ago, the meds and protocol was supposed to save her life. But I think LAXMI HAS FORGOTTEN SHE STARTED THIS, AND HASN’T FINISHED IT. apparently Karma & Summer also do not have the kind of relationship Laxmi convinced us they had in previous series and previous books. So, there is that.
Guess I must wait for MAFIA OBSESSION coming , (LUCA & JEANNE’S STORY) if the world survives that is?
if this is how LAXMI is gonna treat all books & stories from now on, then I ’m gonna Probably need to increase my therapy, thanks Laxmi!
LAXMI I’ve been invested in KARMA’S STORY FOR More than, 3 YEARS now and I still don’t have answers! When I was first introduced to karma and Michael 15 books ago at the end of SUMMER & SINCLAIR’s story! The first book of the BILLIONAIRES SERIES 9 BOOK series THEN 6 BOOKs OF DARK MAFIA BILLIONAIRES (including this one) and I still don’t have the answers I need! WHY ARE YOU PUNISHING /TORTURING US?
So not right.. and do you even read these reviews?
I’m an arc reader. For Laxmi
I am also an Alpha reader & Arc reader for other authors
I think Laxmi needs a new alpha reader to point out her continuity issues. Never mind I had to skip over a lot. Of the story it really does drag on some. I can literally skip every other paragraph during non exciting parts and not miss a single thing . Some of the conversations Just drag too much. And you lose momentum.
Profile Image for Lucia Marano.
156 reviews3 followers
May 6, 2022
Not great😑

Why does Nonna have to die a tragic death with no real connection to the events of the Story? She was a central and essential character! What really makes no sense was the timing of it all. Elsa comes running in the door because somebody is shooting at her and during that time she is on the floor screaming and Seb is protecting her, while Aurora runs over and has a whole conversation with her about whether or not she should get a bandage on her head after the shooting stops. In the meanwhile, Seb decides that he's going to be the one that bandages Elsa and there's a lot of Heat going on between them. When he returns after that exchange with Elsa, all of a sudden they discover that Nonna is shot??? Um... that was like 10 minutes past... Talk about delayed reactions ( or just bad writing...) I mean Isn't that something they would have noticed right away??? This was just so unnecessary and too sad. How did the author think her readers would relate to this?

And then don't get me started about how annoying Elsa was. To me she was irritating and ungrateful. I just didn't feel the connection between these two. Oh and she knows he might get killed but she risks his life anyway and THEY JUST FORGIVE HER. Ok 🙄
Finally, what’s up with everyone saying “Eh?” And “Cazzo!”every other page? Don’t they have their own authentic expressions. It’s just weird. Be a little more original. Italians don’t only say Cazzo.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Basak.
739 reviews36 followers
April 21, 2022
Another enticing mafia romance by L. Steele!!! Mafia Vows is the sixth book in the Arranged Marriage series and this time the plot revolves around Seb, the capo of the Sovrano Seven, and Elsa who happened to be a single mom and the ex-wife of the police commissioner. Their instant attraction is one for the books and their intimacy is of nuclear level. Their story involves all you may need in a sensual mafia romance;

🔥Fierce and strong headed heroine
🔥Possessive and protective hero with a golden heart
🔥Sweetest and most endearing baby
🔥Suspense and action
🔥BDSM - bondage, spanking, edging and sub-dom relationship
🔥Happy ever after

Now, I am not so patiently waiting for the story of the most hot-headed brother of the bunch, Luca🙏🏻
Profile Image for Vanessa.
517 reviews55 followers
April 21, 2022
I received this arc for my honest review. I loved this book so much. I didn’t realize until after starting this book that it was also part of a series. The way it’s written, I can say that I didn’t feel lost at all but I was intrigued on the back story of other characters. Once I started, I could not put it down at all. Seb and Elsa enter an arrangement of marriage. She needs his help and he needs to fulfill his promise. Along the way they each start to fall for each other. Seb is your typical alphahole, possessive and controlling but also protective and Elsa definitely gives him a run for his money. I loved how she quoted Keanu throughout the book and Seb’s jealousy over it had me laughing. You definitely do not want to miss out on their banter. The cliffy at the end leaves you wanting more on what happens next involving a different brother. I can’t wait to read the next book.
Profile Image for CeCe.
3,503 reviews109 followers
May 27, 2023
The heroine was reckless and annoying. The reader was told how to feel about her and ignore her ridiculous behavior. Why the hero wanted to be with her I have no idea. There is nothing likable about Elsa. Good luck.
DNF.
Profile Image for Shawna Jimenez more.books.forever.
1,770 reviews78 followers
April 21, 2022
This book was fantastic each book gets better and better.. I couldn’t put it down. I Loved Seb and Elsa so much I would say they are my favorite so far. Seb is so alpha and Elsa gives zero F’s and she is feisty and give him a run for his money!!! Can’t wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Cheryl   Graham-Petit.
4,110 reviews23 followers
April 17, 2022
A well written enemies-to-lovers/single mom romance, Mafia Wars is the sixth book in the Arranged Marriage series by L. Steele. There's sizzling attraction, secrets, violence, elements of BDSM, a mafia war, an abusive ex-husband, and so much more.

I volunteered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for Tannie🦋.
489 reviews24 followers
April 25, 2022
ARC.

its been a while that a book disappointed me, and this one really did.
The book follows Seb and Elsa, now don't get me wrong, the book has potential and if you like easy books this one is for you.
I'm not that hard to please, but I just felt like this book needed to be more solid in parts, it felt like it needed more editing at least to make a more solid plot line.
Their banter and their relationship was good, and I honestly liked that, but the other sub plots were honestly flimsy. I needed more, maybe more drama or more details in order for the story to feel more "real".
Also, what's with the "i need a dom and im not fit to be a mom", is that a thing?? I know i shouldnt say anything, as that probably spoils the book, but I just felt horrible for her and also, did she cheat on him??
I mean, they had an agreement and she went on to the club and almost did her thing WITH SOMEONE ELSE... I do agree with Seb though, was her plan for him to find her? If so, it still really sucks and I would even consider it as cheating... even if it was a fake relationship.
But that MY own opinion tbh.

This is a marriage of convenience, touch her and you die, dark romance kind of book.
I can honestly say its really good, but damn if this could've been better.
Oh, and great family dynamics though, I actually enjoyed that a lot. How all the wives came together, how all the brothers protected the whole family.

Tropes: Fake relationship/marriage, dom/sub, dark romance, mafia romance, "single parent".
Profile Image for Anna.
598 reviews483 followers
November 5, 2022
This was me venturing out again in the mafia genre!

This book definitely had its enjoyably moments but there were times while I was reading where I lost interest or found the FMC frustrating to a fault. I liked Seb and he was definitely a very dominating and hot alpha male!

There are sometimes in books where I feel like I cannot connect to the story or where the dialogue didn’t feel real to me, and this occasionally happened while reading. It definitely had its spicy moments!

Avery (the FMC’s daughter) stole my heart and she was so freaking adorable.

Spice: 🌶🌶 (may be spicer to some but I’m basing it off how I felt heh)

Tropes:
Marriage of convenience
Sub/dom
Enemies to lovers
Single mom romance
Touch her you die
19 reviews
May 6, 2022
terrible FMC couldn’t finish book

Sorry I just couldn’t like the FMC she was unappreciative about him helping her and just plain witchy (starts w a B). And yes I couldn’t get over her “problem/issue” that made her lose custody. What an idiot. And yes sorry not sorry not a good mom. Yucky.
Profile Image for Daniela Tavares.
766 reviews25 followers
April 21, 2022
⛓ Thank you to socialbutterflypr and the author for this arc ⛓

4.5/5 stars.
I’ve only read 2 other books by this author but I knew I would enjoy this book cause I still remember how those others I’ve read were so I knew what I was getting into and I don’t regret nothing.
Speaking of those others books, One I’ve read was Sinclair and Summer’s story so seeing them being mentioned so much brought me happiness and it’s crazy cause I’ve read it like two years ago and I still remember the events of it. 🤯
Anyway Mafia Vows is book 6 and I know I didn’t read the other ones first but it’s a standalone plus Seb and Elsa’s story just made me wanna read the other 5 so no harm done although I think this would’ve been much more enjoyable if I knew the other brother beforehand but I still very much enjoy this book so who cares 🤷‍♀️.

The beginning got me hooked. Seb and Elsa’s banter was amazing and their chemistry was very good and I thought for a second that I would have a sexy hate-love kind of action and oh boy was I wrong. Loved that I was wrong btw.

Elsa turned out to be the opposite of what I thought she would be. And she’s a mother.
Elsa lost herself in her previous relationship cause her ex was a scumbag to say the least so this book is also her finding herself again.
Depression after having Avery, abusive relationship, losing her identity , getting out of this situation, losing custody, being blackmailed and trying to find a balance of being a mother and a woman … this right here was the powerful part of this story to me.
A lot of mothers have a hard time finding the balance between the two but Elsa showed that if you make an effort and try , being a woman and owning it doesn’t invalidate being a mother and a good one at that. And Seb came into her life at the exact right time. The way he helped her find her identity again and making her believe that she is in fact a good mother
was everything. *chefs kiss*

Seb is an alpha who has mushy inside. He’s so dominant but also soft at the same time and I loved that about it. I loved how he reassured Elsa every single time and also giving to her everything she would need emotionally without her having to say a word. He was so attuned to each other that he always knew at some level what she needed from him.
Seb and Avery together? It was fricking adorable! He took his role very seriously from the beginning when he met her for the first time and it was everything.

Their sexy times were hot obviously and Seb likes to give only when he sees fit 😉 so I got denied along with Elsa but oh well it was hot either way 🙈
Although Elsa annoyed me a bit cause she’s a tad bratty for me but I completely understand her need to be that way so I can’t hold that against her.

The Sovranos are so alpha, dominant and protective, I loved them all. Their spouses were also supportive of Elsa and defended her when needed so I loved that.
Now Fabio, that corrupt scumbag, when I tell you that what happened to him wasn’t enough for me, I mean it. I cheered Elsa all the way during the altercation and i applaud her for taking control of her life like that, she had the courage to confront her demon and I loved that and I was all in but I wanted more blood. There , I said it. He deserved much worse for being the excuse of a man he was. 🤷‍♀️
Should I mention Sinclair again? 😂 loved that he got mentioned 🙈

Now Karma has me very worried, the plot thickened towards the end which I hope it gets resolved in Lucas book and yes, his book is next and I can’t wait to read it since he’s has this aversion to being pussy whipped 😂. It’s gonna be fun seeing seeing him fall 😌
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Dianne Taylor.
86 reviews1 follower
April 23, 2022
This is Seb and Elsa’s story and I loved it, they had fantastic chemistry from the beginning when Elsa thought it a good idea to throw a pint over Seb!

From the previous books it’s clear that Seb is the quietest of the Sovrano brothers a thinker and planner but that makes him no less ruthless. The death of the brothers Nonna the family matriarch and only real mother they have ever known has a profound affect on them all but is the catalyst for Seb proposing a marriage to Elsa.

Elsa moved to Italy to be near her toddler daughter, she’s in a very tricky situation with her ex husband who has custody of her baby. Her ex husband was abusive and controlling during their marriage and unexpectedly took Avery back to Italy. He’s now in quite a powerful position as he’s the police Chief and is suing for sole custody of their daughter. While having no real interest in their daughter Avery it’s clear that Fabio is quite the manipulator where Avery is concerned and will use every trick in the book be that legal or emotional blackmail to hold power over Elsa to get her to do what he wants. Elsa has certain needs where it comes to her sexuality which her ex has no problem exploiting this and painting her as a bad mother.

Events occur that places Elsa in danger to the extent she finds herself under the protection of Seb and given his promise to his Nonna a marriage is agreed. I loved the relationship between Seb and Elsa while he was certainly the Dominant that Elsa needs he’s also sensitive to her wants and the relationship between Avery and Seb was a joy to read. He accepted her without question and viewed her as his daughter from the off. The characters were multi dimensional and the storyline quite pacy.

While Seb promises to ensure Avery remains with Elsa at the heart of the story is who a mother can trust to make this happen. There are betrayals and old foes returning to seek vengeance I loved this story and couldn’t put it down.

I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
2,317 reviews
April 19, 2022
A tempestuous, sexually charged read that’s full of action, love and pain…..
Seb had never known a moment like it from that very instant his Princess, His Frozen had thrown a pint of beer over his head in the club he had known that there was a chemistry there and then with the death of the Sovrano’s Matriach, for most of the boys the only real mother they had known even though she had been no angel herself.
Elsa was in a terrible situation her Italian husband who happened to be the Police Chief had played her well and her not knowing Italian family law and because of this he had managed to gain sole custody of her daughter, he had no interest in Avery she was simply a means to an end.
She had explained to Seb about her daughter and he could see that she would die to keep her daughter safe, he knew the type of man her husband was he had beaten and abused her and then he had run to Italy with her baby and she had followed with o home, no money, no job and no baby she had had to fight to keep herself together and she had started working in the flower shop with one of the Sovrano women.
Who would have known that they would have fallen in love with each other as Seb had been able to provide her with the Dom she needed and he also treated her like a human being and not just some thing to clean house and care for the baby, he treated he as though she mattered and she loved him for it and even her daughter Avery had been instantly taken by him?
Then she had nearly gotten him killed even though she had no idea that her ex husband would dare go so far and she knew it was only her being married to Seb that allowed her to continue breathing, she had so nearly lost him that evening on their day out and all he had been doing was making her happy.
I will not say any more as I do not want to spoil the read for others by giving away too much, I assure you that once you begin reading you will not be able to put this book down it is simply riveting reading.
I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
Profile Image for Renee.
4,182 reviews55 followers
April 22, 2022
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

Sebastian 'grumphole' Sovrano is ruthless, arrogant, and fixated on me. The first time we meet at a bar I dump my drink all over him. He retaliates by following me into the ladies room. We seem to rub each other up the wrong way every time we are in the same room. He's arrogant, high-handed, full of himself and so very appealing. No way can I act on the attraction that sizzles between us, right? But I need to get custody of my daughter. And he promises to help me. Provided I pose as his wife. Only problem? I can't resist his mean smirk, his wickedness that appeals to the darkness inside to me. But when he discovers my secret, the tables are turned. Now my fake husband is also my worst enemy.

This is the sixth book in the Arranged Marriage Series from L. Steele. Each book is a standalone and the ones I have read have been so good. This is the story of Seb and Elsa. Seb made is Nonna a huge promise one day and said that he would get married. We all know that you do not promise to do something to your Nonna and now carry through with it. Elsa has been married and is desperate to have custody of her daughter from the ex who has a lot of power in the world and is super mean. The solution when Seb agrees to help her is to pretend to be his wife. But Elsa is carrying around a huge secret and when that secret comes out her entire world is rocked and the man who has been her rock is about to become her very worst enemy in this world right along with her hatful ex and don't ever forget that there are mafia wars popping up all the time. These two are amazing characters and they have some really great chemistry together. I really loved reading this book and it is one you certainly do not want to miss.

Profile Image for Karen_Lee_Reads.
1,109 reviews38 followers
April 17, 2022
Mafia Vows
(Arranged Marriage #6)
Written by L. Steele

3.75 Stars

Having never read anything that Author L. Steele has written, I realized I might be at a bit of a disadvantage when it came to knowing all who are involved in this series. That being said, my main reading focus was on the couple this book is about Sebastian and Elsa.

Elsa met Sebastian via her boss and friend Theresa. She thought he was bossy and obviously a member of the Mafia. She already had more on her plate than she could deal with her ex-husband threatening to get total custody of their toddler daughter Avery. The last thing she needed was to get involved with the Capo of the Sovrano family.

Forced to seek help when her car was run off the road and bullets start flying, was it a coincidence that it was the Sovrano family home she ran to or has the whole incident been manipulated?

To keep Elsa and Avery safe, Sebastian suggests a marriage of convenience, he will help Elsa get full custody of her little one and who knows, maybe they will make a family over time.

This book has lots of action and I found I connected with Sebastian’s character but in certain situations I had a bit of trouble connecting with Elsa’s character. There were some very emotional scenes for both Elsa and Sebastian, in fact for the entire cast of characters. Readers are given a good mafia story with a few twists that add to the story line. I found Mafia Vows to be a good afternoon read.
Profile Image for Debbie.
765 reviews3 followers
April 21, 2022
Can a review be written that does justice for the books in this series? Probably not. But this is an attempt to do just that. Elsa works for Theresa in her flower shop. They are very close, like sisters without being blood related. Elsa has always been there for Theresa in her times of need. So... when Theresa asks Elsa to hit a club one night, Elsa goes, even though she isn't really feeling it. However, Theresa's hubby is sending his brother, Sebastian (Seb) as a bodyguard. Needless to say, Elsa's first impression of Seb leaves a lot to be desired. Theresa decides she is not really into the evening and wants to leave, but Elsa is just starting to loosen up and get her drink on. Although a few unpleasant words have been tossed back and forth between Seb and Elsa, crap has yet to hit the proverbial fan. That is until Theresa goes to the restroom and returns right after Elsa has doused Sebastian with a full drink. I wish I could say that they leave the bar and things get better. But...yeah that doesn't happen. There is a lot of sexual tension and flaming chemistry between Elsa and Seb, as well as a lot of words of denial coming from each of them. But this isn't your run of the mill mafia romance. If you've read the other books in the series, you already know to expect the unexpected. There are more twists and turns than even Chubby Checkers can sing about. Okay, in regards to that reference and in my defense, I love old classics. Just saying. Okay, so, back to the important part. This book is full of lies, betrayal, murder, suspense, extreme steam and an unexpected twist that will leave the readers devoted to this series gasping in shock. This is a definite five star plus, must read book. I'm giving this book five stars on Amazon, but 10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ plus book lover stars.
Profile Image for Engel Manu.
985 reviews
February 17, 2024
Mafia Vows - Das Gelübde: Dark Romance | Eine arrangierte Mafia-Ehe ist der 6. Teil der Die Sovranos Reihe. Die Bücher können unabhängig voneinander gelesen werden. In diesem Teil geht es um Sebastian und Elsa. Wenn zwei Menschen aufeinandertreffen und bereits die erste Begegnung nicht gerade harmonisch läuft. Doch beiden bleibt aus bestimmten Gründen keine andere Wahl. Zum genaueren Inhalt verweise ich auf den Klappentext. Ich liebe die Geschichte von Sebastian und Elsa. Bereits nach den ersten Seiten hat mich die Geschichte vollkommen in den Bann gezogen. Ich konnte das Buch nicht aus der Hand legen. Das Buch ist spannend von Anfang bis Ende. Sebastian und Elsa sind zwei wundervolle Charaktere. Man muss die beiden einfach lieben. Beide sind super ausgearbeitet und kommen sehr authentisch rüber. Das Cover ist wunderschön und passt super zum Buch. Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist absolut fesselnd und mitreißend. Das Buch wird aus unterschiedlichen Perspektiven erzählt. Durch die unterschiedlichen Perspektiven kann man sich super in die Charaktere hineinversetzen. Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist absolut fesselnd und mitreißend. Ich will unbedingt den nächsten Teil lesen. Ich kann es kaum erwarten. Vielen Dank für die tollen Lesestunden. Ich kann das Buch nur weiterempfehlen. Absolute Leseempfehlung. ❤️❤️❤️
Profile Image for L. Steele.
Author 33 books1,759 followers
Want to read
April 24, 2022
"★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Wonderful characters! Highly recommend." – Lady Reading

"★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Hot, twisty & spicy" - Nicola A D

"★ ★ ★ ★ ★ This book had me crying, laughing and sitting on the edge of my seat." – Joann Woods-Yoder

" ★ ★ ★ ★ ★Amazing, could not put it down." - Rachel Kroeplien

"I think you will find it worth your time to listen to my proposition."
"What is it?" I scowl.
"Marry me. Of course, it’s only an arrangement …"

Sebastian 'grumphole' Sovrano is ruthless, arrogant, and fixated on me.
The first time we meet at a bar I dump my drink all over him.
He's arrogant, high-handed, full of himself, and...
So very appealing.
No way can I act on the attraction that sizzles between us, right?
But I need to get custody of my daughter,
And he promises to help me.
Provided I pose as his wife.
Only problem?
I can't resist his mean smirk, his wickedness that appeals to the darkness inside of me.
But when he discovers my secret, the tables are turned.
Now my fake husband is also my worst enemy...

A single mother who'll do anything for her child's happiness confronts the big bad mafia prince and teaches him the meaning of love in this stand alone, enemies to lovers to enemies, hate-filled romance, with an HEA. 1-Click NOW!

Note: As seen on billionaire romance booktok

Free in KU => https://readerlinks.com/l/2283060
Add to Goodreads => readerlinks.com/l/2283056
Get the paperback => https://readerlinks.com/l/2283046
Get the hardback => https://readerlinks.com/l/2283057




Profile Image for T.
51 reviews2 followers
April 22, 2022
This is sixth book in this stand alone series but it’s the first book I have read by L. Steele and I can say I enjoyed and recommend it. Elsa and Seb are lovely characters. There were points in the beginning were I felt I couldn’t quiet connect with all of the characters but this had definitely to do with starting with sixth book in the series and changed  throughout the book. The most important characters were Seb and Elsa and I didn’t feel like missing anything from their story.

The first word in my mind for Elsa is firecracker but with a soft heart especially for her loved ones. Despite not being sure in the first few scenes I quickly grew to love and enjoy her character. This goes especially because for all her Keanu Reeves references and the strong love she has for Avery and Seb. I loved as well how protective (often without knowing) Seb was of Elsa and Avery.

Despite not knowing of all the stories of the other couples the connections between them in this book were not only strong but also really lovely. Personally I really appreciated the heartfelt moments between the woman especially. May it be Elsa and Theresa as well as Karma and Elsa for example.
1,718 reviews11 followers
April 20, 2022
Things are often not as they seem. Elsa had secrets, but not very well kept and the Sovranos have not maintained their power by being trusting. They even doubt themselves! Interesting Elsa's internal struggle, the alternatives available to her and how she was coping with the difficult situation in which she found herself involved. A different character, with a lot to lose and that often made me doubt her decisions. Seb amazed me. I liked him as he was from the beginning committed not only to Elsa and her needs but also to Avery. A lot of intrigue with what was happening around this couple with more than one hidden danger in the dark stalking them and weakening their defenses. Here the one who stole the show was Elsa who, like a lioness defending her cubs, took out her nails and although full of doubts and anguish, faced her fears and did what she considered had to do. The end of the story amazed me and left me in anticipation looking forward to the next story. The one I expected the least! And what a way! I love these exciting stories that put my imagination to run and entertain me a lot with the dramatic situations that surround these unusual characters. Action, intrigue, intense emotions, deception, unexpected twists, violence, strong family ties, romance and heated passion. Voluntarily reviewed this copy that I enjoyed.
Profile Image for Lady Bonny Reading.
452 reviews18 followers
May 18, 2022
I have loved every book in L. Steele's series of the Sovrano Brothers Mafia Family. This one is no different!

This is Sebastian's and Elsa's story. We first meet Elsa in Mafia Crown (Axel and Theresa). She is Theresa's employee and best friend. While at a nightclub with Theresa, she meets Seb for the first time. Seb is Theresa's bodyguard for the night and he and Elsa clash...she ends up pouring a glass of beer on him; a rather auspicious meet that boded well for an interesting story. And while it was definitely that, I have to say, the direction Steele took this story was totally unexpected, but still as entertaining, more intriguing, and hotter than I expected.

All of L. Steele's heroines are strong women who stand up to their men when they think it's necessary, but they have a touch of the submissive; loving alpha men, but fighting their inherent nature until they feel their man is worthy. Elsa is no different except that her submissiveness goes a step further into the bdsm realm. But Elsa has had a troubled background ... an abusive ex who's made her feel ashamed of her desires and who uses their child to control her even after their divorce. She has secrets besides her bdsm desires.

Sebastian is a typical alpha Sovrano, but he is more restrained than some of his other brothers. He is the more quiet one, thinking before he acts and never showing emotion. He never thought he'd succumb to love like three of his brothers have, but Seb's time has come. And there are two ladies who melt his heart in this one (and No! It's not a harem or menage a trois. Read it, you'll see).

The couples in Ms Steele's stories are unique in that both always have strength of character. But while one is pretty much exactly what he/she seems but either struggles with his/her own inherent nature or takes a bit to accept what they are feeling, the other is usually multi-layered and has some deep rooted issues he/she must overcome. Which one is male and which is female can vary in each story. In this one, Elsa is the multi layered character with deep rooted issues from her past while Seb, though intense, is exactly what he's always appeared to be, but initially he has a hard time admitting his feelings go beyond lust. (Doesn't take him long to figure it out...Seb is the practical brother). They have their troubles, but it's a beautiful thing watching Seb heal the damaged Elsa. Seb teaches her that she can be a woman and have her desires satisfied and still be a good mother and a good person. With Seb she finally overcomes her feelings of shame as well as her fear of her ex and finally gets her revenge.

In addition to Elsa's ex causing trouble for her and Seb, confusing the matter is Freddie, their deceased father's ex partner (introduced in Mafia Crown), who is still out there with his vendetta against the Sovranos and who wants them all dead. The three unmarried brothers are leaving to hunt Freddie down at the end of this story, setting the stage for the next book (Luca Sovrano's story). I have loved all the Sovrano brothers, but have to admit, Luca was my least favorite up till now. He was always the hotheaded one, never able to control his anger (punch first, ask questions later has been his modus operandi). But Luca has shown some real growth in this book and now I am totally looking forward to his story. It's going to be fun watching Luca learn to control his temper and seeing his softer side. (The bigger, the badder, the harder the fall!) I know Ms. Steele will not disappoint...she hasn't failed me yet.

If you love Mafia romance with some intrigue, hot sex, great characters and an entertaining story that will hold your interest, I highly recommend this entire series. Each story is a stand alone, but is better read in order to get the best insight into the characters and the family dynamics which evolve in each book.
April 21, 2022
Mafia Vows was my first book from L. Steele. It was enemies to lovers mafia romance, sixth book in Arranged Marriage standalone series. I really liked Elsa and Sebastian story. There was undeniable tension and chemistry between them and their bantering kept me hooked to the story from the start. Seb was dominant alpha mafia man and with his possessiveness he make Elsa fight him even harder. She was independent woman but there was something in him that make her also feel save and protect.
They've made an agreement to help each other but it turns out to be a lot more.
There were few moments in the story I felt confused because the action starts from the unknown reason but apart of this I really enjoyed the time of reading this book.

Elsa was his frozen princess and he was her dark knight in shining armor.

Did they lived Happy Ever After?? You need to find it by yourself.
Profile Image for Shafeequah.
160 reviews1 follower
May 13, 2022
So we finally get to Sebs story. And oh how wrong I was about this Capo. The quiet ones are always the baddest of them all.
Once again, L. Steele has enthralled us with her book in this series. No matter how strong these Alphaholes are, when they meet their kindred spirit, they all fall. And Seb is no different. His officially become my new NO 1 Alphahole!!!
Loved this story as it shows the protectiveness and kindness these Alphaholes have towards their women. Even if the scenes burns whole in the pages and spikes your heart rate up a notch or two or three or hell just spikes your heart rate period!
Well done on another great book.
April 17, 2022
Just when you think Laxmi can't give you another book better than the last, she does. I seriously went into this ARC thinking there is no way Seb & Elsa's could be better than Michael & Karma, Christian & Aurora or Axel & Teresa's, but honestly I have loved every single one of her books in the Billionaire and Mafia series. I love how she creates characters that draw you in and make you root for them.

Seb is the dominate alpha with a soft side. Elsa is a single mother battling for custody of her daughter from her abusive ex. Seb makes her a proposition she really can't refuse. He's not as dark as Michael but the things he does are steamy! This is part of a series but you could read it as a stand alone. I recommend reading the whole series though as they are definitely worth having and you will want to read them again!
Profile Image for Jeraca.
2,495 reviews26 followers
April 19, 2022
I received this free eARC novel from the author and Wildfire Marketing. This is my honest review.

This is my first novel by L. Steele and I absolutely loved it! Even though I came into this 6th book of a series, I didn't feel like I was missing too much since this was Sebastian and Elsa's story. And boy, the chemistry between these two? Off the pages. I loved how they met, and then the second time they saw each other and how Seb protected Elsa? I was lost to their connection from then on. I love little Avery, she's adorable and so innocent - I hope she always has that innocence. She had Seb twisted around her little finger the second they met and it just melted my heart.

I wish Elsa would have been more open about everything going on with her situation, but I get why she was close lipped - her trust issues really had to be delved into and she really needed to see how everyone around her reacted to things before letting go of that tight grip she had.

I really enjoyed this book and I am going to keep my eyes out for more books by this author! So glad I got the chance to read this story :)
Profile Image for Reading  In the  Red Room .
2,151 reviews58 followers
April 14, 2022
Seb made a promise to his Nonna that he would get married. Elsa has a mean ex husband with a lot of power and she just wants her daughter. A marriage of convenience is both of their best bets. But deep inside they each have what the other needs, These two are made for each other. But let’s not for get we have a mafia war and a ex husband we are also dealing with. This was a intense and emotional read with a lot going on. I enjoyed this entertaining story and can’t believe it’s already on book six! I liked Seb from the beginning and loved how protective he was. I look forward to seeing what happens next in this series.
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,767 reviews16 followers
April 22, 2022
Mafia Vows by L. Steele is book 6 in the Arranged Marriage Series. This is the story of Elsa and Sebastian 'Seb'. Elsa is a single mother to daughter Avery. Elsa also has an abusive ex husband who is the Chief of Police and he it treating to take away her daughter away from her. Sebastian is the Capo of the Sovarno family but has promised his Nonna that he will marry. Elsa first meets Sebastian when he is playing body guard to her boss and friend Theresa. They do no hit it off at all. But they slowly start to come together in a marriage of convince to help both of their situations. Loving this book and will be looking for more from Ms. Steele.




Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.