If you’re in the mood for romance with a dangerous edge, look no further. Captive romance books take “bad boys” to a whole new level—where the stakes are high, the tension is sizzling, and love is anything but simple. Whether it’s mafia kings or Stockholm syndrome, these stories dive into the dark and twisted corners of romance.

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5 Captive Romance Book Recommendations

Laura from What to Read Next stopped by the Reading Under the Covers podcast to share her favorite captive romance books and her journey to reading mafia romance books. Listen to the podcast.

Mafia Mistress by Mila Finelli

Mafia: Italian mafia – The story revolves around an Italian mafia boss, set in Italy

In Mafia Mistress, the heroine is kidnapped by an Italian mafia boss and taken to Italy, where she’s supposed to marry his son. But things take a steamy turn when the boss himself starts falling for her. Expect forbidden romance, power plays, and a strong-willed heroine who refuses to be anyone’s pawn.

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Carnal Urges by J.T. Geissinger

Mafia: Irish – The hero is the head of the Irish mob, set in Boston

Carnal Urges features a sassy, feisty heroine who’s kidnapped by the head of the Irish mob. Despite the dangerous situation, she doesn’t back down, and their fiery chemistry makes this a captivating read. If you love strong heroines who can hold their own and the thrill of a high-stakes romance, this one’s for you.

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Run Posy Run by Cate C. Wells

Mafia: Russian mob

Run Posy Run brings a dark twist to the second-chance romance trope. The heroine escapes her mafia ex, only to be hunted down when he realizes he wants her back. Their intense, twisted relationship is full of tension, with danger lurking at every corner. Perfect for fans of morally gray heroes and dark romance.

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The Brit by Jodi Ellen Malpas

Mafia: British mob with connection in Miami

The Brit dives into the darker side of mafia romance, where a British mob boss with a traumatic past kidnaps a woman involved in a dangerous game of blackmail. Their relationship is filled with dark themes and complex emotions, making it a gripping read for those who enjoy intense, gritty romance.

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Stolen Heir by Sophie Lark

Mafia: Polish mob – The hero is part of the Polish mafia, and the story involves a conflict with an Irish mafia family.

Stolen Heir is a dark mafia romance where a ballerina heroine is kidnapped by a cold, calculating mafia leader seeking revenge against her family. As they’re forced together, unexpected feelings develop, blurring the lines between captor and captive. This one’s perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers dynamics with a softer, more emotional edge.

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Do you have any favorite captive romance books? Share in the comments with us! And if you want more dark romance recommendations, check out the lists below.

Read More

• Dubious consent book recommendations
• Mindf*ck series by S.T. Abby reviews and series guide
• Our dark romance book reviews
• Romance book tropes

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