Raw, Powerful, and Unexpectedly Tender A Dark Mafia Romance That Dares to Be Different

A quick note for readers: please take the trigger warnings seriously before you start reading. This book explores heavy and potentially sensitive topics, and knowing that ahead of time helps you step into the story with the right mindset.
I’d recommend The DiSanti Family: Alessia to anyone who loves dark romance, complex female leads, and stories that aren’t afraid to dive deep into emotion and power. I’ll definitely be continuing the DiSanti series. I’m already hooked.

I received The DiSanti Family: Alessia through my monthly book subscription, not really knowing what to expect. When I heard it was a dark mafia romance, I thought I knew the type of story I was getting into, but I was completely blown away when it turned out to center around a lesbian couple. I had never read anything like that before, and I was pleasantly surprised by how raw, emotional, and respectful it was. W. Griffin brings this representation to life with intensity, honesty, and heart.

The first few chapters were a bit slow for me, personally. There were a few small typos, and I had to get used to Griffin’s writing style, but very quickly, I found myself completely drawn into the story. Alessia is bossy, powerful, and confident, yet she’s full of love and feeling. Even as a mafia queen, she experiences everything deeply, and that makes her so compelling.

Harper, on the other hand, forgives Alessia a bit too easily at times, especially considering she doesn’t come from this dangerous world. Still, her adaptability and growth throughout the book make her a strong and believable character. The relationship between Alessia and Harper develops quickly, but it never feels fake or forced. Their chemistry radiates off the page, it’s intense, loyal, and passionate.

The family dynamics were another highlight for me. Alessia’s relationship with her father, Leo, wasn’t what I expected from a typical mafia boss who’s supposed to be protective and ruthless, but it worked. It felt real, emotional, and human. The central themes of family, love, and betrayal were beautifully interwoven, creating a story that’s both dark and tender.

W. Griffin’s writing is incredibly descriptive and immersive, you can almost instantly see every room, every expression, every glance. At times, the prose repeats slightly, but never in a way that becomes distracting. The dialogue occasionally feels a little forced, but most of it flows naturally, balancing tension and emotion perfectly. The pacing is fast, yet fitting for the intensity of the plot and the emotions running through it.

I also want to highlight the book design! The layout and small illustrations that distinguish between text messages, letters, and dialogues were such a nice touch. They made the reading experience feel even more cinematic. I personally had some issues sometimes remembering from who’s POV i was reading, but really that could just be me.

The plot had a few predictable elements, but W. Griffin still managed to surprise me. The ending was satisfying, not too rushed, not too open and left me eager to continue the series.

What truly makes The DiSanti Family: Alessia stand out is its message. Griffin shows that your voice matters, that there are ways to face the darker sides of life by accepting help, and that silence should never be the answer. Note: not recommanding the agression

W. Griffin deserves a lot of praise for creating such a bold, emotional, and empowering story! One that blends the grit of dark romance with the vulnerability of real love.