Book Review: Joey: A Brother’s Best Friend, Standalone Dark Mafia Romance (Chicago Ruthless Book 2)
If you’re anything like me, the allure of dark romance – particularly in a mafia setting – is undeniably magnetic. From the moment I stumbled across Joey by Sadie Kincaid, I found myself captivated not only by its intoxicating premise but also by the sheer depth of emotional conflict it promised. This standalone installment in the Chicago Ruthless series caught my eye as a fresh take on the beloved brother’s best friend trope, and oh, did it deliver!
At its heart, Joey is a story woven with themes of loyalty, desire, and the turbulent clash between familial expectations and personal autonomy. Joey Moretti is introduced as a "spoiled Mafia princess" but quickly reveals herself to be a complex character yearning for freedom and genuine connection. Her long-standing crush on Maximo DiMarco, her brother’s best friend and a notorious mafia enforcer, adds layers of tension and romance to the narrative. Maximo is everything you’d expect in a dark alpha male: dangerously charismatic, fiercely protective, and utterly compelling. The internal struggle he faces—torn between his loyalty to Joey’s brothers and his undeniable attraction to her—creates an irresistible push-and-pull dynamic that kept me turning the pages.
Kincaid’s writing is sharp and immersive, capturing both the grit of mafia life and the pulse of raw emotion. The pacing flowed beautifully, oscillating between thrilling tension and moments of intense passion. The chemistry between Joey and Maximo practically sizzles off the page. Their banter is playful yet charged, a dance of dominance and submission that is absolutely delicious. I found myself rooting for Joey as she evolved from the pampered princess into a formidable woman ready to take charge of her own destiny. It’s this transformation that resonated so deeply with me; it felt relatable and empowering.
One standout aspect of the book was the exploration of contradictory emotions. As one reviewer noted, Kincaid expertly navigates the line between tenderness and ferocity. Maximo’s struggles with his dark past and his fierce desire to protect Joey evoke a sense of vulnerability that humanizes him in a world dominated by violence. Meanwhile, Joey’s fight against the perception of being a mere trophy in her family’s eyes tugged at my heartstrings in a way that felt very real.
The spice in this novel? It’s absolute fire. From the tantalizing buildup to the steamy scenes that follow, every encounter is rich with tension and desire. One can hardly ignore the “touch her and die” vibes surrounding Max, and these moments are infused with passion that feels both urgent and authentic. Kincaid keeps the reader on the edge, proving she knows how to blend heat with storyline flawlessly.
If you’re a fan of dark romance that encompasses a thrilling backdrop with layers of emotional depth, Joey is a must-read. Its themes of self-discovery, the dangers of obsession, and the purity of love amidst chaos will resonate with many. I came away from this book feeling exhilarated and a little breathless, eager for the next book in the series that promises even more complexity and romance.
In closing, I highly recommend Joey to fans of Sadie Kincaid and anyone looking for a page-turner that balances gripping tension with heartfelt character evolution. Prepare your heart and your sanity; you’re in for a wild ride! Whether you’ve enjoyed the previous book in the series or are just diving in, Joey’s journey will resonate long after you’ve turned the last page. Happy reading!