One great one is 'Twisted Love' by Ana Huang. It has elements of a dark hero and a complex relationship set against a somewhat mafia - like backdrop. The chemistry between the characters is intense.
Sure. 'Corrupt' by Penelope Douglas is a top pick. It has a dark and brooding hero who is part of a sort of mafia - esque group. The romance in it is intense and full of angst. It's a story that really draws you in with its complex characters.
I remember 'The Mafia's Forbidden Bride' as being quite popular in 2019. It was a story about a woman who was arranged to marry a mafia leader. Their relationship started off rocky but developed into a deep and passionate love over time.
A sense of redemption can also be a theme. Sometimes, the male lead who is involved in the mafia may seek redemption through his relationship with the female lead. He might want to change his ways or make amends for his past actions. This adds an emotional depth to the story as the couple tries to overcome the dark past and build a future together.
In 'The Heir' by Kiera Cass, while not strictly a Russian mafia romance, it has some aspects of organized crime and a very romantic storyline. The characters face many challenges, much like in a mafia - influenced story, and their love story is heart - warming.
'The Ruthless King' by Alison Aimes is also a top choice. It offers a strong female lead and a dominant mafia male character. The romance between them is intense and set against the backdrop of a complex mafia underworld.
Many of these novels also deal with themes of loyalty and betrayal. The mafia world is all about loyalty to the family or the organization. But when love enters the picture, loyalties can be tested. In 'Mafia's Redemption', the male lead has to choose between his loyalty to the mafia and his love for the female lead, which makes for a very gripping story.
One popular one could be 'Twisted Loyalties' which combines the dangerous and alluring world of the mafia with a passionate romance. The power dynamics and the intense relationships in the story really draw readers in.