Sometimes you just need a love story with less drama. As much as I love a good, gritty mafia romance, having the mafia side of things be in the backdrop to their increasing closeness was refreshing.

This a forbidden/ secret romance set in a dark mafia world, but their story is full of warmth and lightness. Rules never to be broken.” “One of those rules was not to desire a girl that wasn’t promised to you…”

It also displayed blossoming young love between two people who truly care about one other. What I saw between Mauro and Stella is yes, a familial affection from having grown up together but it also goes deeper than that. But you know what? I really shouldn’t have doubted Cora or her writing talents because any concerns I had about a step-sibling romance went right out the window. So, reading the blurb for Forbidden Delights, I had my doubts. I’ve read some pretty disturbing ones in the past and it’s a big reason as to why it’ll never be one of the tropes I look for. No? Just me then? 😅 It’s why I usually steer clear of any romance reads with this trope. Have you ever felt a little creeped out or iffy about romances that centers around step or foster siblings - thinking it’s a little too close to incest despite the fact that they’re technically not blood related… but still, you know… weird? I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to read her novella that was included in the Love in Lockdown romance anthology. And more specifically I love Cora Reilly’s mafia romances. But can she keep doing so when they’re trapped in a small room all alone? Afraid of his reaction, she hides her attraction. Mauro has always been Stella’s protector and ally, until she starts to see him as more. Being locked into a panic room with her might be the ultimate test for his self-control… Now she’s all grown-up and he can’t stop noticing. She used to be his annoying shadow, the little girl he needed to protect and babysit. Not only because she isn’t promised to him, but also because she’s his step-sister. Stella is a forbidden fruit Mauro isn’t allowed to taste.

Cora reilly mafia