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In the Company of Killers
Gossip Girl meets The Sopranos in this fast-paced drama about a teenage mafia heiress who would do anything to avenge her family, even join forces with the handsome enemy.
Inside the tony suburb of Scarsdale is New York’s worst-kept secret: The mob runs everything, and the Nicastro family is at the center. Seventeen-year-old Tasha Nicastro lives a life of glitz and glamour, but she has no idea her family harbors a dark truth.
Tasha might look like your classic high school mean girl, but behind the designer clothes is a sharpshooter who knows how to bring anyone to their knees. The only person who has ever gotten under her skin is her former best friend, Leo Danesi, the youngest son of the Nicastro family’s rivals. After Leo returns to New York older and more handsome, Tasha thinks he’ll be the worst of her problems—until the life she thought she knew takes a violent, shocking turn. When her father and beloved older sister are murdered before her eyes, Tasha learns the dark truth: Her family runs the most powerful Mafia branch in New York, and now she’s set to inherit it all.
Tasha vows vengeance on the mysterious new mob behind the hit, but she can’t do it alone. She needs someone who already knows the underground world to help track them down. And that person is none other than Leo, the heir to his own family’s dangerous empire.
But Tasha is a Nicastro. She’s been raised in the company of killers, and there’s absolutely nothing she won’t do to avenge her family. That is, if the enemy doesn’t put her in gold chains first.
Inside the tony suburb of Scarsdale is New York’s worst-kept secret: The mob runs everything, and the Nicastro family is at the center. Seventeen-year-old Tasha Nicastro lives a life of glitz and glamour, but she has no idea her family harbors a dark truth.
Tasha might look like your classic high school mean girl, but behind the designer clothes is a sharpshooter who knows how to bring anyone to their knees. The only person who has ever gotten under her skin is her former best friend, Leo Danesi, the youngest son of the Nicastro family’s rivals. After Leo returns to New York older and more handsome, Tasha thinks he’ll be the worst of her problems—until the life she thought she knew takes a violent, shocking turn. When her father and beloved older sister are murdered before her eyes, Tasha learns the dark truth: Her family runs the most powerful Mafia branch in New York, and now she’s set to inherit it all.
Tasha vows vengeance on the mysterious new mob behind the hit, but she can’t do it alone. She needs someone who already knows the underground world to help track them down. And that person is none other than Leo, the heir to his own family’s dangerous empire.
But Tasha is a Nicastro. She’s been raised in the company of killers, and there’s absolutely nothing she won’t do to avenge her family. That is, if the enemy doesn’t put her in gold chains first.
384 pages, Paperback
First published March 18, 2025
28 people are currently reading
7,621 people want to read
About the author
Elora Cook
1book111followersElora is an author of Young Adult fiction who loves to write about ambitious girls living glamorous and dangerous lives. She grew up outside of Toronto and now travels often to and from the East Coast. Her name comes from the movie Willow, that destined her for a love of storytelling.
In the Company of Killers is her debut novel.
In the Company of Killers is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
October 25, 2024
In the Company of Killers, Elora Cook delivers a gripping tale that effortlessly blends glamour, betrayal, and vengeance. Imagine the world of Gossip Girl crashing into the dark corridors of The Sopranos—that’s the heady mix of tension and intrigue we’re diving into here. The book introduces Tasha Nicastro, a seemingly typical high school queen bee, until her life is shattered by a brutal truth: her family is at the center of New York’s most powerful mafia.
Cook wastes no time, plunging readers into Tasha’s high-stakes world of luxury and violence. The book crackles with energy from the very first chapter as Tasha’s father and sister are murdered before her eyes. Suddenly, she’s no longer just a teenager with designer clothes and snappy comebacks—she’s the heiress to a criminal empire, and with that inheritance comes a thirst for revenge.
What really sets In the Company of Killers apart is how Cook balances the fast-paced action with complex, layered characters. Tasha is a fierce protagonist. Her strength is compelling, but it’s her vulnerability and deep-seated desire for justice that make her relatable. And then there’s Leo, her former best friend and heir to a rival mafia family, who becomes both her ally and potential downfall. Their relationship is a tense, slow-burn dynamic full of chemistry, resentment, and grudging respect—a true rivals-to-lovers tale.
The banter between them is electric, and Cook peppers their interactions with just the right amount of wit and tension. As they team up to uncover the identity of the new mafia responsible for the deaths of Tasha's family, the stakes rise exponentially. There’s no shortage of secrets, betrayals, and heart-stopping moments, keeping the pages turning with a mix of action, suspense, and romance.
However, what I found particularly interesting is the juxtaposition of Tasha’s glamorous lifestyle with the grim realities of her new role. One moment, she’s donning a designer gown and stepping into a high-end car, and the next, she’s in the thick of danger, showing her grit in the underworld. Cook masterfully portrays both sides of her—the poised, calculated leader and the young woman grappling with immense loss and responsibility.
For those who enjoy stories brimming with luxury, danger, and complex relationships, In the Company of Killers is an addictive read. It’s a genre-bending novel that effortlessly blends romance, mystery, and thrilling mafia drama, all while set against the iconic backdrop of New York City. The plot twists will keep you on your toes, and even if you think you know where the story is heading, Cook is sure to surprise you.
Fans of Gossip Girl and mafia romances alike will devour this book. The tension between love and loyalty, revenge and survival, is palpable on every page. I, for one, cannot wait to see what Cook has in store next—especially after that jaw-dropping cliffhanger.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for sharing this captivating YA mafia novel’s digital reviewer copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Cook wastes no time, plunging readers into Tasha’s high-stakes world of luxury and violence. The book crackles with energy from the very first chapter as Tasha’s father and sister are murdered before her eyes. Suddenly, she’s no longer just a teenager with designer clothes and snappy comebacks—she’s the heiress to a criminal empire, and with that inheritance comes a thirst for revenge.
What really sets In the Company of Killers apart is how Cook balances the fast-paced action with complex, layered characters. Tasha is a fierce protagonist. Her strength is compelling, but it’s her vulnerability and deep-seated desire for justice that make her relatable. And then there’s Leo, her former best friend and heir to a rival mafia family, who becomes both her ally and potential downfall. Their relationship is a tense, slow-burn dynamic full of chemistry, resentment, and grudging respect—a true rivals-to-lovers tale.
The banter between them is electric, and Cook peppers their interactions with just the right amount of wit and tension. As they team up to uncover the identity of the new mafia responsible for the deaths of Tasha's family, the stakes rise exponentially. There’s no shortage of secrets, betrayals, and heart-stopping moments, keeping the pages turning with a mix of action, suspense, and romance.
However, what I found particularly interesting is the juxtaposition of Tasha’s glamorous lifestyle with the grim realities of her new role. One moment, she’s donning a designer gown and stepping into a high-end car, and the next, she’s in the thick of danger, showing her grit in the underworld. Cook masterfully portrays both sides of her—the poised, calculated leader and the young woman grappling with immense loss and responsibility.
For those who enjoy stories brimming with luxury, danger, and complex relationships, In the Company of Killers is an addictive read. It’s a genre-bending novel that effortlessly blends romance, mystery, and thrilling mafia drama, all while set against the iconic backdrop of New York City. The plot twists will keep you on your toes, and even if you think you know where the story is heading, Cook is sure to surprise you.
Fans of Gossip Girl and mafia romances alike will devour this book. The tension between love and loyalty, revenge and survival, is palpable on every page. I, for one, cannot wait to see what Cook has in store next—especially after that jaw-dropping cliffhanger.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for sharing this captivating YA mafia novel’s digital reviewer copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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August 19, 2024I've already read this book....because I wrote it!
This book is for you if you love:
� enemies to lovers / hate to love
� fierce heroines
� NYC
� LOTS of drama!
� a Blair Waldorf x Chuck Bass ship
� warring mafias
� an ex (billionaire) boyfriend
� BIG secrets (and plot twists galore)
� fast-paced writing
� movie-like action
� glam and danger mixed together
� reluctant heirs to their criminal legacies
� mutual pining & slow burn romance
I worked on this book for 5 years. Now it's finally ready to be shared with the world. I cannot WAIT for you to meet Tasha & Leo and the wild journey they go on within this book. Thank you for taking a chance on it (and me) if you decide to read. It means so much to be sharing this life-long dream with you.
This book is for you if you love:
� enemies to lovers / hate to love
� fierce heroines
� NYC
� LOTS of drama!
� a Blair Waldorf x Chuck Bass ship
� warring mafias
� an ex (billionaire) boyfriend
� BIG secrets (and plot twists galore)
� fast-paced writing
� movie-like action
� glam and danger mixed together
� reluctant heirs to their criminal legacies
� mutual pining & slow burn romance
I worked on this book for 5 years. Now it's finally ready to be shared with the world. I cannot WAIT for you to meet Tasha & Leo and the wild journey they go on within this book. Thank you for taking a chance on it (and me) if you decide to read. It means so much to be sharing this life-long dream with you.
February 17, 2025
eARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
Rating - 2⭐️
The synopsis was promising so I had high hopes that I’d enjoy this. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the right book for me. I admit I was intrigued at the start of the novel and sort of liked both Tasha and Leo but as the story progressed past the 30% mark, I started disliking them more and more.
The drama was so messy and not in a great way. I became increasingly frustrated with a lot of what was happening. I also predicted the very big plot twist very early on and I felt like the execution of the reveal was quite unsatisfying and rushed.
The dynamic between Tasha and Leo felt like a messy situationship to be honest. And both characters made a lot of questionable decisions that annoyed me. I think they’re both intentionally meant to be unlikeable and very flawed characters but I couldn’t connect with them enough. I especially thought I would love Leo but the way he treated other women excluding the fmc didn’t sit right with me despite the “other women� in question being a character I disliked too, that character didn’t deserve what he did to them.
Rating - 2⭐️
The synopsis was promising so I had high hopes that I’d enjoy this. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the right book for me. I admit I was intrigued at the start of the novel and sort of liked both Tasha and Leo but as the story progressed past the 30% mark, I started disliking them more and more.
The drama was so messy and not in a great way. I became increasingly frustrated with a lot of what was happening. I also predicted the very big plot twist very early on and I felt like the execution of the reveal was quite unsatisfying and rushed.
The dynamic between Tasha and Leo felt like a messy situationship to be honest. And both characters made a lot of questionable decisions that annoyed me. I think they’re both intentionally meant to be unlikeable and very flawed characters but I couldn’t connect with them enough. I especially thought I would love Leo but the way he treated other women excluding the fmc didn’t sit right with me despite the “other women� in question being a character I disliked too, that character didn’t deserve what he did to them.
February 4, 2025
I like to thank the publisher for allowing me a chance at reading this ARC.
Buddy read with Sarah! Whoo! Our first one - and may I say, this was a PERFECT book to read together.
If you enjoy Veronica Mars, The OC, Gossip Girl, with a mix of The Sopranos? This is your book. This book absolutely STUNNED me that it was a debut. How could it be this good?
Our female lead is wealthy, elite, nicely dressed, and knows how to throw parties and how to enjoy them. When her boyfriend of four years ago shows up after spending time in California? Well, lets just say it felt like watching Logan Echolls in a different light. If he was a mafia raised wealthy bad boy.
There is a mystery, a fast paced story on who killed her father and sister. Who is this dangerous new mafia gang that has appeared and is recruiting those from other gangs? Will Leo and Tasha end up together again? Is Ravi a good guy or a bad guy? Can Leo trust his family?
The ending was shocking!
There has to be a sequel to this. Lets hope there is a sequel to this.
Now my wish list for the sequel:
Buddy read with Sarah! Whoo! Our first one - and may I say, this was a PERFECT book to read together.
If you enjoy Veronica Mars, The OC, Gossip Girl, with a mix of The Sopranos? This is your book. This book absolutely STUNNED me that it was a debut. How could it be this good?
Our female lead is wealthy, elite, nicely dressed, and knows how to throw parties and how to enjoy them. When her boyfriend of four years ago shows up after spending time in California? Well, lets just say it felt like watching Logan Echolls in a different light. If he was a mafia raised wealthy bad boy.
There is a mystery, a fast paced story on who killed her father and sister. Who is this dangerous new mafia gang that has appeared and is recruiting those from other gangs? Will Leo and Tasha end up together again? Is Ravi a good guy or a bad guy? Can Leo trust his family?
The ending was shocking!
There has to be a sequel to this. Lets hope there is a sequel to this.
Now my wish list for the sequel:
November 12, 2024
WOW. This was my first ever ARC from the sweetest human who I’m so lucky to have met. It was so cool to hear her journey of getting this book to where it is.
This book was totally out of the norm for me, I haven’t read any books with the mafia BUT I loved gossip girl so the vibes were on point.
I thought I had figured out the enemy several times but Elora surprised the fuck out of me!! The betrayal was razor sharp. The enemies to lovers trope also just gets me every time. I’m obsessed.
One thing I need???? A SEQUEL. I don’t wanna give any spoilers but let’s just say that ending…�.nope I need more.
So so honored to have had this ARC and gotten the opportunity to read it. I feel so VIP right now 😂
Go read this book! 💞
This book was totally out of the norm for me, I haven’t read any books with the mafia BUT I loved gossip girl so the vibes were on point.
I thought I had figured out the enemy several times but Elora surprised the fuck out of me!! The betrayal was razor sharp. The enemies to lovers trope also just gets me every time. I’m obsessed.
One thing I need???? A SEQUEL. I don’t wanna give any spoilers but let’s just say that ending…�.nope I need more.
So so honored to have had this ARC and gotten the opportunity to read it. I feel so VIP right now 😂
Go read this book! 💞
March 22, 2025
Maybe I'm not really a mafia girlie after all
November 18, 2024
� 4.5 ⭐️
This was a fantastic debut!!
I haven't read mafia romance probably since Midnight Poppy Land lol and ITCOK definitely delivered.
This was promoted as Gossip Girl meets The Sopranos and I can confirm it will give you vibes for both—it's the best of both worlds.
Tasha gave me Blair Waldorf vibes, if Blair was a Mafia princess with an aggressive (if not a little violent) streak and I absolutely adored her. All that rage, all that determination, all that vulnerability—she was a beautifully layered character I loved to explore.
Leo was every bit as layered as Tasha. He gave me Nathaniel Archibald x Chuck Bass vibes, if they were a Mafia prince who knew how to hide behind the mask of the arrogant rich boy and pretend he hasn't been obsessed with one girl for years. His chapters were some of my fav, I fell hard for him 😩🤌🏻
I loved so many things about this - from the MCs and their messy relationships to the glamorous vibes and violent scenes. The tension between Tasha and Leo was delicious from the beginning. There were some scenes between them in the first half of the book where you could feel the aggression simmering beneath the surface.
Nails-to-throat is a trope I need more of in my life, my gods 🥵
Leo kept saying throughout the book that he doesn't want the Mafia life but I think he likes the danger, he's literally attracted to the most dangerous girl.
I don't know Leo, sounds like you were made for this 😏
There's one character in particular that pissed me the fuck off almost from the beginning. How I wish he'd shut up and go away, Jesus, he was more annoying than Topper from Outer Banks. Every time Ravi opened his mouth and something dumber came out I was this 🤏🏻 close to punching him myself. Seriously, I hope something bad happens to him in the second book cause I cannot deal with him 😒
Once the events started unfolding, the second part of the book was super gripping and suspenseful, filled with twists, keeping me both captivated and on edge the entire time. At one point I was suspicious of everyone and everything, unsure who Tasha can trust and my girl went through so much 😭
There's big twist towards the end that had me screaming and speaking of screaming � that ENDING!! IM SO MAD!! SO MAD!! I knew where things were going but it was so painful to read 😭😭😭 and NOW we gotta wait for the sequel!! Elora, why do you hate us 😭😭😭 💔💔
Send all the wine and emotional support you can, I have no idea how to survive until book 2 is out
eternal gratitude to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC
All quotes are from an advance copy and may differ in the final publication
This was a fantastic debut!!
I haven't read mafia romance probably since Midnight Poppy Land lol and ITCOK definitely delivered.
This was promoted as Gossip Girl meets The Sopranos and I can confirm it will give you vibes for both—it's the best of both worlds.
Tasha gave me Blair Waldorf vibes, if Blair was a Mafia princess with an aggressive (if not a little violent) streak and I absolutely adored her. All that rage, all that determination, all that vulnerability—she was a beautifully layered character I loved to explore.
I sighed, closing my eyes, and pictured the hundreds of times my sister reached for me. The foggy details of those memories now blended together, forming a kaleidoscope version that would slowly fade with each passing day.
There really was an infinite number of ways a heart could hurt.
Leo was every bit as layered as Tasha. He gave me Nathaniel Archibald x Chuck Bass vibes, if they were a Mafia prince who knew how to hide behind the mask of the arrogant rich boy and pretend he hasn't been obsessed with one girl for years. His chapters were some of my fav, I fell hard for him 😩🤌🏻
I searched his face, my throat thickening with a rage of emotions building inside. "Why do you believe that?"
Leo didn't say anything for a moment. I held my breath when he tilted my head forward to rest his forehead against mine, my entire body turning molten with each heavy beat of his heart.
"Because,'" he said breathlessly, closing his eyes, "every time I've been at my lowest, you've found me, even when I stupidly pushed you away."
I loved so many things about this - from the MCs and their messy relationships to the glamorous vibes and violent scenes. The tension between Tasha and Leo was delicious from the beginning. There were some scenes between them in the first half of the book where you could feel the aggression simmering beneath the surface.
I spooked at Leo's sudden appearance pressed close to me. Instinctively, my hand flew to his throat. He held completely still as my acrylic nails dug into his tender skin, staring at me with heavy-lidded eyes while my chest rose and fell.
Our gazes seared into each other. His hot, mint-touched breaths mixed with mine and tickled my chin, my lips, my cheek. Black pooled wide and large over Leo's irises. I watched it up close, mesmerized, until he spoke.
"Not good with surprises, are you?" Leo asked his voice low and thick.
I flicked the briefest look down to his slightly parted lips and back up.
"Not when they come from you," I replied.
Nails-to-throat is a trope I need more of in my life, my gods 🥵
Leo kept saying throughout the book that he doesn't want the Mafia life but I think he likes the danger, he's literally attracted to the most dangerous girl.
I don't know Leo, sounds like you were made for this 😏
There's one character in particular that pissed me the fuck off almost from the beginning. How I wish he'd shut up and go away, Jesus, he was more annoying than Topper from Outer Banks. Every time Ravi opened his mouth and something dumber came out I was this 🤏🏻 close to punching him myself. Seriously, I hope something bad happens to him in the second book cause I cannot deal with him 😒
Once the events started unfolding, the second part of the book was super gripping and suspenseful, filled with twists, keeping me both captivated and on edge the entire time. At one point I was suspicious of everyone and everything, unsure who Tasha can trust and my girl went through so much 😭
There's big twist towards the end that had me screaming and speaking of screaming � that ENDING!! IM SO MAD!! SO MAD!! I knew where things were going but it was so painful to read 😭😭😭 and NOW we gotta wait for the sequel!! Elora, why do you hate us 😭😭😭 💔💔
Send all the wine and emotional support you can, I have no idea how to survive until book 2 is out
eternal gratitude to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC
All quotes are from an advance copy and may differ in the final publication
March 28, 2025
Oh boy. The teenagers are going to lose their minds over this one!
Fingers crossed for book 2!
Fingers crossed for book 2!
March 27, 2025
2.5 - what was that ending?! is this not a stand-alone? either way im not interested to find out. tasha was intolerable
December 20, 2024
I was up late reading then set an alarm for early this morning so I could get up and finish the ending because this book is THAT good!!!
Tasha and Leo were such great characters and their relationship had me swooning from their first interaction. Tasha is so glamorous and fierce but I also loved getting to see some moments that show her softer side. It made her feel so well-rounded and made me love her even more. And LEO. I adore that boy so much. His love for Tasha is so deep and protective while also admiring how capable and strong she is. It’s so refreshing (and important, especially in YA) to see an MMC who is actually secure in his masculinity!
I love a second-chance romance because it’s got so much tension already built in, and Elora nails it with these two. So many rivals/enemies to lovers romances are just the couple being snarky to each other for a few chapters before they get together. But the hurt between Tasha and Leo is SO deep-rooted and realistic. And made the yearning and eventual slow burn between them even better!
AND THAT END!!! Don’t get me started on that ending. Every time I thought I had it figured out Elora pulled the rug out from under my feet again. It was completely worth missing out on so much sleep last night! It’s the kind of book that I want to read again now that I know the twist at the end to see all the foreshadowing I’m sure I didn’t pick up on the first time through. I thought it was the perfect balance between a satisfying payoff and just enough loose ends that I am desperate for the next book. It can’t come soon enough!!!
Thank you so much to Elora for the ARC! I am so excited to read whatever she writes next ❤️
Tasha and Leo were such great characters and their relationship had me swooning from their first interaction. Tasha is so glamorous and fierce but I also loved getting to see some moments that show her softer side. It made her feel so well-rounded and made me love her even more. And LEO. I adore that boy so much. His love for Tasha is so deep and protective while also admiring how capable and strong she is. It’s so refreshing (and important, especially in YA) to see an MMC who is actually secure in his masculinity!
I love a second-chance romance because it’s got so much tension already built in, and Elora nails it with these two. So many rivals/enemies to lovers romances are just the couple being snarky to each other for a few chapters before they get together. But the hurt between Tasha and Leo is SO deep-rooted and realistic. And made the yearning and eventual slow burn between them even better!
AND THAT END!!! Don’t get me started on that ending. Every time I thought I had it figured out Elora pulled the rug out from under my feet again. It was completely worth missing out on so much sleep last night! It’s the kind of book that I want to read again now that I know the twist at the end to see all the foreshadowing I’m sure I didn’t pick up on the first time through. I thought it was the perfect balance between a satisfying payoff and just enough loose ends that I am desperate for the next book. It can’t come soon enough!!!
Thank you so much to Elora for the ARC! I am so excited to read whatever she writes next ❤️
September 29, 2024
3.5 stars (rounded up)
When I first saw the premise of this book, I was definitely intrigued. Gossip Girl vibes with a mafia heiress? Sign me up!
This book had so many secret reveals, betrayals, action sequences, and tons of drama. Everyone was lying about something or keeping a secret at some point in time. In that way, it was like watching a teen drama series but in book form. And yes, from the first chapter, Tasha definitely gave me Blair Waldorf energy (but ngl I only got through season 1 of GG before I got too busy to commit to finishing it). The only issue I had was that I found most of the twists to be quite predictable, so it took away a bit of the fun.
Character-wise, I liked how capable Tasha was and though she was stubborn and a little frustrating at times, I definitely could empathize with her throughout. With Leo, I liked how caring he was, how he was an unwilling heir, and how he always wanted to be there for Tasha.
With the romance, I always enjoy the childhood friends to rivals to lovers trope because... I get it! Also, since Tasha + Leo were from rival mafia families, there’s an element of forbidden romance in there too.
On that note, I definitely want to know what happens after that ending ‼️
Thank you to the author for letting me be part of the street team!
When I first saw the premise of this book, I was definitely intrigued. Gossip Girl vibes with a mafia heiress? Sign me up!
This book had so many secret reveals, betrayals, action sequences, and tons of drama. Everyone was lying about something or keeping a secret at some point in time. In that way, it was like watching a teen drama series but in book form. And yes, from the first chapter, Tasha definitely gave me Blair Waldorf energy (but ngl I only got through season 1 of GG before I got too busy to commit to finishing it). The only issue I had was that I found most of the twists to be quite predictable, so it took away a bit of the fun.
Character-wise, I liked how capable Tasha was and though she was stubborn and a little frustrating at times, I definitely could empathize with her throughout. With Leo, I liked how caring he was, how he was an unwilling heir, and how he always wanted to be there for Tasha.
With the romance, I always enjoy the childhood friends to rivals to lovers trope because... I get it! Also, since Tasha + Leo were from rival mafia families, there’s an element of forbidden romance in there too.
On that note, I definitely want to know what happens after that ending ‼️
Thank you to the author for letting me be part of the street team!
January 7, 2025
... ... ... I will need at least five business days to recover from this.
This was unbelievably and wildly good. It is an emotional rollercoaster of insane twists, clever machinations, nail-biting action, and grade-A teenage angst. Truly a stellar story in the vein of Gossip Girl but with a mafia-twist. I made a mistake reading this a year out from publication because now I desperately need a sequel and have no idea how I will wait for it. Thank you to the author for letting me read this but please don't forget me once you finish that sequel. I am in pain and it can only be healed with more Tasha and Leo.
This was unbelievably and wildly good. It is an emotional rollercoaster of insane twists, clever machinations, nail-biting action, and grade-A teenage angst. Truly a stellar story in the vein of Gossip Girl but with a mafia-twist. I made a mistake reading this a year out from publication because now I desperately need a sequel and have no idea how I will wait for it. Thank you to the author for letting me read this but please don't forget me once you finish that sequel. I am in pain and it can only be healed with more Tasha and Leo.
March 23, 2025
what is this book doing in 2025? this belongs in the era of chosen one/coming of age/2010s/16-18 yo mc around whom the world revolves around era. aka the era that was better left behind. this is in the same vein as the inheritance games by jlb but worse and way more annoying. i need another word but you get what i mean.
this book was full of contradictions. it starts with tasha throwing a party and being bitchy/mean girl-ish and owning it. she has a fellow mean girl bestie too. she wears the posh spoiled rich girl aura but was naive and dumb as hell. yeah your real estate dealer dad made you learn fighting and shooting as a hobby, nooo other reason at all. the way everyone around her knew about her mafia family but her, the one living in one her whole life. the speech her dad gave about her taking on business didn't click in her pea sized brain once. she was like yeah ill become a property dealer at 18 no problem! she finds out when it hits her in the face (literally) and her reaction lasts for her two secs then someone is like you are the boss now. the people in her circle were just as mentally challenged and had the habit of singing her praises for no fucking reason. did i mention everyone adored her? every guy was in love with her and she was sooo amazing. she was great at everything too. she beat the villain! no one knows how, or if she even had a big role in that, but she did!
there is so much i haven't touched upon, haven't even started on the side characters. tasha took the cake for ruining this book on her own. and the ridiculous ending?! i have had enough of dumb teens. i wanna say, not all ya is like this!!!
this book was full of contradictions. it starts with tasha throwing a party and being bitchy/mean girl-ish and owning it. she has a fellow mean girl bestie too. she wears the posh spoiled rich girl aura but was naive and dumb as hell. yeah your real estate dealer dad made you learn fighting and shooting as a hobby, nooo other reason at all. the way everyone around her knew about her mafia family but her, the one living in one her whole life. the speech her dad gave about her taking on business didn't click in her pea sized brain once. she was like yeah ill become a property dealer at 18 no problem! she finds out when it hits her in the face (literally) and her reaction lasts for her two secs then someone is like you are the boss now. the people in her circle were just as mentally challenged and had the habit of singing her praises for no fucking reason. did i mention everyone adored her? every guy was in love with her and she was sooo amazing. she was great at everything too. she beat the villain! no one knows how, or if she even had a big role in that, but she did!
there is so much i haven't touched upon, haven't even started on the side characters. tasha took the cake for ruining this book on her own. and the ridiculous ending?! i have had enough of dumb teens. i wanna say, not all ya is like this!!!
February 27, 2025
This book reminds me why I enjoy ARC reading, and I am so grateful to have had the chance to read this !!
This was so fun. I loved Tasha and immersing myself into her world, and I was really enjoying Leo’s character.
I saw one of the twists coming, but there were so many twists at the end !! This was fantastic. I enjoyed this world so much - suspense, backstabbing, murder. I don’t usually reach for Mafia books but I could feel that I’d love this one - and I’m so glad I trusted my gut.
This was so fun. I loved Tasha and immersing myself into her world, and I was really enjoying Leo’s character.
I saw one of the twists coming, but there were so many twists at the end !! This was fantastic. I enjoyed this world so much - suspense, backstabbing, murder. I don’t usually reach for Mafia books but I could feel that I’d love this one - and I’m so glad I trusted my gut.
February 14, 2025
40/100 or 2.0 stars
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Despite all the storylines that have been done before leading up to the predictable last twists, I could have forgiven some of it, but that ending was really not good. The writing style itself flowed well, but the overall plot was done before and relies on clueless main characters. I would give the author another try, but I am not interested in continuing in this world, unfortunately. The premise was good, but the execution was not it.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Despite all the storylines that have been done before leading up to the predictable last twists, I could have forgiven some of it, but that ending was really not good. The writing style itself flowed well, but the overall plot was done before and relies on clueless main characters. I would give the author another try, but I am not interested in continuing in this world, unfortunately. The premise was good, but the execution was not it.
September 19, 2024
What about the cover stood out to you?
The picture of the girl's face on the cover really caught my eye and although I usually don't pick up books that look like this, I felt like the cover was really interesting. I am not really a fan of books with pictures of people on the cover. I don't think this one looked bad. I don't love how the cover looks but I don't dislike it. I think it is unique and that the colors red and black really complement each other and give us insight into the book.
Based on the Cover, what did you think the book was about?
Something that I didn't love about the cover was that you really aren't able to tell what the book is about from just looking at it. The cover of a girl gives no insight as to what the book is about or what is going to occur in the book.
Did the cover remind you of any other books
The cover of this book didn't really remind me of any other books I have read. This is most likely because I tend to gravitate towards books that don't have people on the covers.
Who was your favorite character? Why?
I really liked Leo in the book. I thought he was likable and more relatable. Although I really did like Tasha I did find her to be a little insufferable at times especially when she would push others away from her. I felt like Leo is more caring and compassionate which makes him more likable whereas Tasha was more closed off and demanding.
What part of the book did you most enjoy?
The part that I really liked in the book was when Leo and Tasha would go on their little adventures together. I always felt like it was filled with action and anticipation that would always make me more excited to read the book. I loved to see what they would do together and see how much farther they would get in the case.
How did this book make you feel?
This book made me feel so enraged at the end. The only reason this book was not a five was because of its atrocious ending. I don't understand how the author can write an enemies to lovers book and not have them get together in the end. The ending was just not for me, I had so desperately wanted a happy ending and this book just did not give it to me. I hate when books end and just feel unfinished and that is exactly what this book did to me. I just couldn't understand why the author wouldn't have them get together in the end, it just didn't make much sense to me.
What part of the book do you think you will remember for a long time?
I think I will remember the awful ending of this book for a while. This is probably because of how good the book was and how disappointing the ending was. I was just so annoyed at the end when the whole book was preparing for them to get together and the fact that it just didn't happen.
Would you recommend this book to a friend, what would you tell them about the book to get them to read it?
I would recommend this book to others but I would caution them of the awful ending of the book. I overall thought the book was super good minus the ending and I would tell them about how it is about a highschool girl who unknowingly inherits her fathers mafia. She then goes on to figure out who is behind the murders of her father and sister with her enemy who also shares a common enemy with her.
If you recommend other books by this author to a friend, what would you tell them?
I wouldn't recommend any other books by this author since I wasn't a fan of this book enough for her to want to read any other.
The picture of the girl's face on the cover really caught my eye and although I usually don't pick up books that look like this, I felt like the cover was really interesting. I am not really a fan of books with pictures of people on the cover. I don't think this one looked bad. I don't love how the cover looks but I don't dislike it. I think it is unique and that the colors red and black really complement each other and give us insight into the book.
Based on the Cover, what did you think the book was about?
Something that I didn't love about the cover was that you really aren't able to tell what the book is about from just looking at it. The cover of a girl gives no insight as to what the book is about or what is going to occur in the book.
Did the cover remind you of any other books
The cover of this book didn't really remind me of any other books I have read. This is most likely because I tend to gravitate towards books that don't have people on the covers.
Who was your favorite character? Why?
I really liked Leo in the book. I thought he was likable and more relatable. Although I really did like Tasha I did find her to be a little insufferable at times especially when she would push others away from her. I felt like Leo is more caring and compassionate which makes him more likable whereas Tasha was more closed off and demanding.
What part of the book did you most enjoy?
The part that I really liked in the book was when Leo and Tasha would go on their little adventures together. I always felt like it was filled with action and anticipation that would always make me more excited to read the book. I loved to see what they would do together and see how much farther they would get in the case.
How did this book make you feel?
This book made me feel so enraged at the end. The only reason this book was not a five was because of its atrocious ending. I don't understand how the author can write an enemies to lovers book and not have them get together in the end. The ending was just not for me, I had so desperately wanted a happy ending and this book just did not give it to me. I hate when books end and just feel unfinished and that is exactly what this book did to me. I just couldn't understand why the author wouldn't have them get together in the end, it just didn't make much sense to me.
What part of the book do you think you will remember for a long time?
I think I will remember the awful ending of this book for a while. This is probably because of how good the book was and how disappointing the ending was. I was just so annoyed at the end when the whole book was preparing for them to get together and the fact that it just didn't happen.
Would you recommend this book to a friend, what would you tell them about the book to get them to read it?
I would recommend this book to others but I would caution them of the awful ending of the book. I overall thought the book was super good minus the ending and I would tell them about how it is about a highschool girl who unknowingly inherits her fathers mafia. She then goes on to figure out who is behind the murders of her father and sister with her enemy who also shares a common enemy with her.
If you recommend other books by this author to a friend, what would you tell them?
I wouldn't recommend any other books by this author since I wasn't a fan of this book enough for her to want to read any other.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
April 1, 2024📢 YA mafia book
"Drama, romantic angst, twisty plots, glamorous lifestyles, danger around every corner, NYC, fierce heroines, and teenagers going up against the underground world"
2025 can't come soon enough
"Drama, romantic angst, twisty plots, glamorous lifestyles, danger around every corner, NYC, fierce heroines, and teenagers going up against the underground world"
2025 can't come soon enough
March 18, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
TL;DR: In the Company of Killers by Elora Cook is a fantastic, breath-taking YA debut. From great characters to a gripping plot it has it all! While there was lots of tension between Tasha and Leo, I liked how it did not overshadow the main plot of Tasha getting revenge for her family's death. As much as I loved Tasha going full-out Mafia boss, it was nice to see the softer side of her as well. And that ending... wow! I didn't see most coming, and I am praying that we get a sequel because I need to know what happens!
Enter the world of Tasha Nicastro. Lavish parties, designer clothing, huge mansion, prestigious private school—she has it all. Forget about the mother who left her and the boy that despises (secretly loves?) her. Tasha is living the dream, until her father and beloved sister are murdered right before her eyes. Thrown into a world that she is to be queen of, Tasha is determined to get revenge on the mysterious new gang behind the murders. But she can’t do it alone. She must team up with Leo Danesi to figure this thing out before anyone else gets hurt.
Rich girl finds out she’s the heir to the most powerful mafia branch in New York? Count me in!
In the Company of Killers hooked me by the title, cover, and description—it checked all the boxes! I can tell Elora Cook put lots of planning and thought into this. Both the plot and characters had so many layers which I was very happy about! The amount of clues that Elora dropped that I missed is way too many to count� definitely keep an eye out!
And the plot twists. All the reviews I read mentioned that ending, so I thought I was prepared. But no. Elora Cook caught me by surprise in that last bit. The guy sitting next to me in class probably thought I was crazy by the look on my face when I read those last chapters! I still can’t believe that ending. How could you do that Elora?!
Beyond the incredible plot, Elora Cook created a memorable and complex cast of characters.
Immaculately dressed Tasha Nicastro is your headstrong, morally grey protagonist that I genuinely felt bad for. We saw her going from a spoiled heiress to a mafia boss, which I absolutely loved!
Leo Danesi. What to say about him? He basically has an entire mafia branch lined up to inherit, though he doesn’t want it. But he’s learned to show the world the version of himself they want to see: a rich boy who spends his time partying. A boy who’s definitely not thinking about his sworn enemy, the heir to her families� empire.
And Ravi. Oh Ravi. He is that one character who would do whatever it takes to protect the people he cares about (uh, Tasha) so much so that you kind of roll your eyes at him. And even though he did come in handy, I found him so annoying. Like, give Tasha some space why don’t you?!
In the first chapter I practically see Tasha walking across that stage, hands in the air, greeting everyone. (Even though, you know, I am physically unable to visualize—thanks aphantaisa—but forget about that.) Looking back, I loved seeing the stark contrast of who she was before and after. Elora did a great job of painting Tasha Nicastro as this rich, spoiled teenager that doesn't have a care in the world, something that definitely changed throughout the book.
There was so much tension between Tasha and Leo, just as Elora promised! There were so many times that I wanted to scream at Tasha and tell her to believe Leo. As much as I liked the enemies-to-lovers, Romeo and Juliet-esque trope, I'm happy that didn't overpower the plot. Instead, we get to see how Tasha processes and deals with her trauma from her father and sister’s murder.
For example, the scene where Tasha had to identify the bodies was so sad. I’m happy she allowed herself to take a step back and give someone else the responsibility. Even though I loved Tasha going full-out Mafia boss, I liked seeing the softer side of her as well.
There were a couple things that only were a problem solely because the Italian Canadian in me is nitpicky like that. First, there was a lack of consistency with the names that Tasha called her very Italian family. For example, she calls her grandmother “nonna�, but doesn’t call her uncles and aunts “zio� and “zia.� Also, I know Elora is Canadian, so it kind of upset me when favourite, colour, and honour were spelt in the American way. (As I wrote this the red squiggly line appeared under each word 😞).
But, really those aren’t even that big of a problem and were not why this wasn’t five stars. I’m actually not 100% sure why I didn’t give it five stars; I guess four felt too low, and it wasn’t a five?
Usually I don’t say whether I would recommend actually buying a book or not, but that’s usually. In the Company of Killers is worth buying, not just because of the awesome cover, but because I genuinely think that this is a book that I would have bought, that I might read again. I cannot wait to go to the book event that she’s hosting!
Can I just say that I NEED a sequel after that ending! Hopefully one with an equally lovely cover where she teams up with another badass girl in the mafia and dominates the underground world! (And obviously more on that one thing that happened in the last chapter!)
Overall, I am really happy with Elora Cook’s debut! It had good pacing, characters, and plot twists that I should have seen coming but didn’t. I 100% recommend this book to anyone that reads YA/teen books!
Many thanks to HarperCollins Canada and Elora Cook for granting my request and mailing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
TL;DR: In the Company of Killers by Elora Cook is a fantastic, breath-taking YA debut. From great characters to a gripping plot it has it all! While there was lots of tension between Tasha and Leo, I liked how it did not overshadow the main plot of Tasha getting revenge for her family's death. As much as I loved Tasha going full-out Mafia boss, it was nice to see the softer side of her as well. And that ending... wow! I didn't see most coming, and I am praying that we get a sequel because I need to know what happens!
Enter the world of Tasha Nicastro. Lavish parties, designer clothing, huge mansion, prestigious private school—she has it all. Forget about the mother who left her and the boy that despises (secretly loves?) her. Tasha is living the dream, until her father and beloved sister are murdered right before her eyes. Thrown into a world that she is to be queen of, Tasha is determined to get revenge on the mysterious new gang behind the murders. But she can’t do it alone. She must team up with Leo Danesi to figure this thing out before anyone else gets hurt.
Rich girl finds out she’s the heir to the most powerful mafia branch in New York? Count me in!
In the Company of Killers hooked me by the title, cover, and description—it checked all the boxes! I can tell Elora Cook put lots of planning and thought into this. Both the plot and characters had so many layers which I was very happy about! The amount of clues that Elora dropped that I missed is way too many to count� definitely keep an eye out!
And the plot twists. All the reviews I read mentioned that ending, so I thought I was prepared. But no. Elora Cook caught me by surprise in that last bit. The guy sitting next to me in class probably thought I was crazy by the look on my face when I read those last chapters! I still can’t believe that ending. How could you do that Elora?!
Beyond the incredible plot, Elora Cook created a memorable and complex cast of characters.
Immaculately dressed Tasha Nicastro is your headstrong, morally grey protagonist that I genuinely felt bad for. We saw her going from a spoiled heiress to a mafia boss, which I absolutely loved!
Leo Danesi. What to say about him? He basically has an entire mafia branch lined up to inherit, though he doesn’t want it. But he’s learned to show the world the version of himself they want to see: a rich boy who spends his time partying. A boy who’s definitely not thinking about his sworn enemy, the heir to her families� empire.
And Ravi. Oh Ravi. He is that one character who would do whatever it takes to protect the people he cares about (uh, Tasha) so much so that you kind of roll your eyes at him. And even though he did come in handy, I found him so annoying. Like, give Tasha some space why don’t you?!
In the first chapter I practically see Tasha walking across that stage, hands in the air, greeting everyone. (Even though, you know, I am physically unable to visualize—thanks aphantaisa—but forget about that.) Looking back, I loved seeing the stark contrast of who she was before and after. Elora did a great job of painting Tasha Nicastro as this rich, spoiled teenager that doesn't have a care in the world, something that definitely changed throughout the book.
There was so much tension between Tasha and Leo, just as Elora promised! There were so many times that I wanted to scream at Tasha and tell her to believe Leo. As much as I liked the enemies-to-lovers, Romeo and Juliet-esque trope, I'm happy that didn't overpower the plot. Instead, we get to see how Tasha processes and deals with her trauma from her father and sister’s murder.
For example, the scene where Tasha had to identify the bodies was so sad. I’m happy she allowed herself to take a step back and give someone else the responsibility. Even though I loved Tasha going full-out Mafia boss, I liked seeing the softer side of her as well.
"I know there are many who don't want me to take over. But I won't dishonor my family's memory by burying the Nicastro legacy with them."
There were a couple things that only were a problem solely because the Italian Canadian in me is nitpicky like that. First, there was a lack of consistency with the names that Tasha called her very Italian family. For example, she calls her grandmother “nonna�, but doesn’t call her uncles and aunts “zio� and “zia.� Also, I know Elora is Canadian, so it kind of upset me when favourite, colour, and honour were spelt in the American way. (As I wrote this the red squiggly line appeared under each word 😞).
But, really those aren’t even that big of a problem and were not why this wasn’t five stars. I’m actually not 100% sure why I didn’t give it five stars; I guess four felt too low, and it wasn’t a five?
Usually I don’t say whether I would recommend actually buying a book or not, but that’s usually. In the Company of Killers is worth buying, not just because of the awesome cover, but because I genuinely think that this is a book that I would have bought, that I might read again. I cannot wait to go to the book event that she’s hosting!
Can I just say that I NEED a sequel after that ending! Hopefully one with an equally lovely cover where she teams up with another badass girl in the mafia and dominates the underground world! (And obviously more on that one thing that happened in the last chapter!)
Overall, I am really happy with Elora Cook’s debut! It had good pacing, characters, and plot twists that I should have seen coming but didn’t. I 100% recommend this book to anyone that reads YA/teen books!
Many thanks to HarperCollins Canada and Elora Cook for granting my request and mailing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2024
In the Company of Killers Review:
First of all I’d like to thank Elora Cook and Little Brown Book Group for giving me the opportunity to be part of the Killer squad, and to have the honour of reading In the Company of Killers that has occupied my mind and soul.
ITCOK is a YA mafia based book where Gossip Girl meets The Sopranos, and I couldn’t have asked for a better combo than this. When I tell you that this book is not to be taken light heartedly; but that Elora Cook will have you running to her dm’s and having you begging for answers! This book had me go through multiple rollercoasters of emotions that I can’t comprehend and put into words. From the plot to the characters that I am deeply invested in, this book has officially been tattooed into my heart and bares a special place at the top of my favourite books of 2024. First of all, the first few chapters are complete chaos, I swear I blinked, and everything happened all at once. The pacing of this book was incredibly done. It was tense throughout, and I loved that the author didn’t rush quickly with relationships. There was a priority set in place. From the get-go, we are thrown into the riches and glam, and brawl of madness that is ITCOK.
Our main stars of the show Tasha and Leo would be the black cat and the golden retriever combo, however, I wouldn’t take the golden retriever Leo so lightly, if the black cat gets hurt, the golden retriever will kill! The characters are flawed in their own way, and they honestly feel so real. There's so much tension between our two main characters that will have you ripping your hair out of your scalp. You would just want to shove both of them in a room until they sort their problems out. I love how both Tasha and Leo perceive the mafia world, especially our Tasha, who is newly forced into the world.
Now don’t even get me started on those last few pages because that was FOUL! I swear I suffered from whiplash on the train and stared dramatically out the window of my train wondering “Why do I do this to myself? Why do I trust authors with my heart so easily?�. I later went home after work and proceeded to scream at my wall and punch my pillow and initiated my plan to be insufferable and pester Elora Cook until she gave me answers.
All in all, this book was absolutely incredible and needs to be read by all! If you love tension filled books with a splash of riches and high risks, then this book was curated for you. This gem will be released on 18th & 20th March 2025. Add this masterpiece onto your tbr list and pre-order now.
Did I like this book? No…I loved this book!
Did this book cause me insufferable pain and agony by the end? Yes, yes, it did!
Would I recommend this book so that you can suffer with me? Ofcourse!
Will I continue to pester Elora Cook and the publishers in 2025? Hell, yes!
Should you pre-order this book? * Hold reader at gunpoint* Do it! Now!
First of all I’d like to thank Elora Cook and Little Brown Book Group for giving me the opportunity to be part of the Killer squad, and to have the honour of reading In the Company of Killers that has occupied my mind and soul.
ITCOK is a YA mafia based book where Gossip Girl meets The Sopranos, and I couldn’t have asked for a better combo than this. When I tell you that this book is not to be taken light heartedly; but that Elora Cook will have you running to her dm’s and having you begging for answers! This book had me go through multiple rollercoasters of emotions that I can’t comprehend and put into words. From the plot to the characters that I am deeply invested in, this book has officially been tattooed into my heart and bares a special place at the top of my favourite books of 2024. First of all, the first few chapters are complete chaos, I swear I blinked, and everything happened all at once. The pacing of this book was incredibly done. It was tense throughout, and I loved that the author didn’t rush quickly with relationships. There was a priority set in place. From the get-go, we are thrown into the riches and glam, and brawl of madness that is ITCOK.
Our main stars of the show Tasha and Leo would be the black cat and the golden retriever combo, however, I wouldn’t take the golden retriever Leo so lightly, if the black cat gets hurt, the golden retriever will kill! The characters are flawed in their own way, and they honestly feel so real. There's so much tension between our two main characters that will have you ripping your hair out of your scalp. You would just want to shove both of them in a room until they sort their problems out. I love how both Tasha and Leo perceive the mafia world, especially our Tasha, who is newly forced into the world.
Now don’t even get me started on those last few pages because that was FOUL! I swear I suffered from whiplash on the train and stared dramatically out the window of my train wondering “Why do I do this to myself? Why do I trust authors with my heart so easily?�. I later went home after work and proceeded to scream at my wall and punch my pillow and initiated my plan to be insufferable and pester Elora Cook until she gave me answers.
All in all, this book was absolutely incredible and needs to be read by all! If you love tension filled books with a splash of riches and high risks, then this book was curated for you. This gem will be released on 18th & 20th March 2025. Add this masterpiece onto your tbr list and pre-order now.
Did I like this book? No…I loved this book!
Did this book cause me insufferable pain and agony by the end? Yes, yes, it did!
Would I recommend this book so that you can suffer with me? Ofcourse!
Will I continue to pester Elora Cook and the publishers in 2025? Hell, yes!
Should you pre-order this book? * Hold reader at gunpoint* Do it! Now!
October 13, 2024
Reading mafia romance and novel has always been a guilty pleasure of mine and though I acknowledged the fact that my taste in books now is different from before, I still pick up books that interest me.
With ITCOK being a debut novel ft. a rivals to lovers between Tasha Nicastro and Leo Danesi, MCs who are next in line to be the leader of their family's company only to find out that it's an underground mafia organization that they have manage, I did not have a hard time finishing this since the storyline is definitely intriguing.
One of the things that I really liked about ITCOK is the way the author developed the backstory as a critical element in the story. Both Tasha and Leo spent their childhood being part of the same circle of powerful families but due to several circumstances, they end up separated and distant. Now they are being prepped to be the heir of the Nicastro, Danesi legacy, their shared history added an insurmountable tension that left me wanting to read more and find out what they will do individually and together.
ITCOK also discussed about family dynamics and power. Being involved in criminal legacies, Tasha and Leo grew up with different type of family which is significant because the way they are treated affects how they react outside of their territory. Along with it comes the presentation of how power and influence plays a crucial part in society. Being a novel that is following the heirs of New York's top mafia orgs, commentaries about power system are expected and it also tangents with how our society is mostly patriarchal.
Intense, angsty, and unputdownable - I rated ITCOK, 4stars
With ITCOK being a debut novel ft. a rivals to lovers between Tasha Nicastro and Leo Danesi, MCs who are next in line to be the leader of their family's company only to find out that it's an underground mafia organization that they have manage, I did not have a hard time finishing this since the storyline is definitely intriguing.
One of the things that I really liked about ITCOK is the way the author developed the backstory as a critical element in the story. Both Tasha and Leo spent their childhood being part of the same circle of powerful families but due to several circumstances, they end up separated and distant. Now they are being prepped to be the heir of the Nicastro, Danesi legacy, their shared history added an insurmountable tension that left me wanting to read more and find out what they will do individually and together.
ITCOK also discussed about family dynamics and power. Being involved in criminal legacies, Tasha and Leo grew up with different type of family which is significant because the way they are treated affects how they react outside of their territory. Along with it comes the presentation of how power and influence plays a crucial part in society. Being a novel that is following the heirs of New York's top mafia orgs, commentaries about power system are expected and it also tangents with how our society is mostly patriarchal.
Intense, angsty, and unputdownable - I rated ITCOK, 4stars
March 29, 2025
So they're ex's coming from the Mafia and they meet after 4 years....
And her family is the suspect of attacking his family and nearly killing his little sister...
And now they get invited to the FMC'S sister's engagement party and her father gets killed!!!and the secret passage scene???!!!FUCK MEEE??!!!KILL MEEE!!!!😩🥵🥵🥵😏😏❤️�
AND NOW THE PLOT IS GETTING INTRESTING!!!!
"A family that shot lions into the hearts of men.
And one girl was about to inherit it all"!!!!!!DAMNNN HELL BABY!!!!
And now they have a common enemy and they join forces to tackle them!!!!
They get a lead and they snoop on their mother's office and almost get caught...
"You're a fighter, Tasha. That's why I know you could do this."
They're about to kiss and she's in denial!!!!THEY ALMOST KISSED!!!😩😩 😭😭😭💔
Carter works with Salvators and he's the step-son of Sloane
OMG!!!!!THEY FINALLY KISS!!!!! I'M SCREAMINGGGGGGG!!!!
And Leo kills Victor on Carter bases and Tasha gets to know and gets heart broken and they break- up & Ravi comes to rescue and Leo is going to the party to protect Tasha no matter what!!!!
I KNEW IT!!!!VAL WAS SHADY AND SHE WAS WITH CARTER!!!!
WTFFFF!!!!AMELIA IS THE SALVATORE BOSS???!!!!
I HAVE TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT!!!!!
AND THE PLOT TWIST???😩😭😭😭💔
WHY????!! WHY ELORA???I SHIPPED Tasha & Leo So much!!!!
Now i want the sequel ASAP!!!!
THIS BOOK IS CHEF'S KISS!!!THE CHARACTERS, THE CHEMISTRY, THE ACTIONS SCENES, TENSION, SUSPENSE AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN WAS PERFECTION AND I LOVED THIS BOOK SOO MUCH!!!!
4.5🌟 AND I NEED THE SECOND BOOK!!!
And her family is the suspect of attacking his family and nearly killing his little sister...
And now they get invited to the FMC'S sister's engagement party and her father gets killed!!!and the secret passage scene???!!!FUCK MEEE??!!!KILL MEEE!!!!😩🥵🥵🥵😏😏❤️�
AND NOW THE PLOT IS GETTING INTRESTING!!!!
"A family that shot lions into the hearts of men.
And one girl was about to inherit it all"!!!!!!DAMNNN HELL BABY!!!!
And now they have a common enemy and they join forces to tackle them!!!!
They get a lead and they snoop on their mother's office and almost get caught...
"You're a fighter, Tasha. That's why I know you could do this."
They're about to kiss and she's in denial!!!!THEY ALMOST KISSED!!!😩😩 😭😭😭💔
Carter works with Salvators and he's the step-son of Sloane
OMG!!!!!THEY FINALLY KISS!!!!! I'M SCREAMINGGGGGGG!!!!
And Leo kills Victor on Carter bases and Tasha gets to know and gets heart broken and they break- up & Ravi comes to rescue and Leo is going to the party to protect Tasha no matter what!!!!
I KNEW IT!!!!VAL WAS SHADY AND SHE WAS WITH CARTER!!!!
WTFFFF!!!!AMELIA IS THE SALVATORE BOSS???!!!!
I HAVE TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT!!!!!
AND THE PLOT TWIST???😩😭😭😭💔
WHY????!! WHY ELORA???I SHIPPED Tasha & Leo So much!!!!
Now i want the sequel ASAP!!!!
THIS BOOK IS CHEF'S KISS!!!THE CHARACTERS, THE CHEMISTRY, THE ACTIONS SCENES, TENSION, SUSPENSE AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN WAS PERFECTION AND I LOVED THIS BOOK SOO MUCH!!!!
4.5🌟 AND I NEED THE SECOND BOOK!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2025
Maybe the 2 stars is harsh and I’m really just tired and wanted a good book and didn’t get that but THIS SHIT PISSED ME OFF.
All I have to say is my pookie pie Leo Danesi deserves to have the crash out of the century after the actual fuck assery the devil from the depths of privileged rich girl hell Tasha pulled on him. Like you can’t set up your main character to be a diva icon a la Blair Waldorf only to have her be an actual piece of shit like maybe the reason you have no friends is bc you’re genuinely really mean and use people over and OVER again and then get mad when they grow a spine. Girl has ZERO redeeming qualities at least Blair was smart, Tasha has zero brain bc her only personality trait was “I’m a mean rich girl who’s super stubborn�.
Will NOT be reading the sequel I fear this girl is INSUFFERABLE. Also THAT ENDING GRINDS MY GEARS.
All I have to say is my pookie pie Leo Danesi deserves to have the crash out of the century after the actual fuck assery the devil from the depths of privileged rich girl hell Tasha pulled on him. Like you can’t set up your main character to be a diva icon a la Blair Waldorf only to have her be an actual piece of shit like maybe the reason you have no friends is bc you’re genuinely really mean and use people over and OVER again and then get mad when they grow a spine. Girl has ZERO redeeming qualities at least Blair was smart, Tasha has zero brain bc her only personality trait was “I’m a mean rich girl who’s super stubborn�.
Will NOT be reading the sequel I fear this girl is INSUFFERABLE. Also THAT ENDING GRINDS MY GEARS.
April 2, 2025
2.25/5
Going to be completely honest, I got sick while reading this book so I feel this review won’t be as good as some others. The story for me just felt long.. I don’t know if it was the writing style or the pacing, but I just couldn’t get into it. I was excited to read about the mafia romance because I had never read a cowboy romance and I had liked it but, this one just didn’t do it for me.
Going to be completely honest, I got sick while reading this book so I feel this review won’t be as good as some others. The story for me just felt long.. I don’t know if it was the writing style or the pacing, but I just couldn’t get into it. I was excited to read about the mafia romance because I had never read a cowboy romance and I had liked it but, this one just didn’t do it for me.
Want to read
October 12, 2024I love me a good Mafia romance so bring it on 👏
March 20, 2025
Holy smokes what a debut! WTF though cus of the ending !! I NEED ANSWERS/BOOK TWO ASAPPPPPP
4.5/5
4.5/5
March 26, 2025
So good. I loved it!!
December 1, 2024
Thanks to the author and Netgalley for the eARC!
I’ll start with the good. This book had a unique premise that you don’t normally see in YA. It’s the kind of book I gravitate towards: an original idea! We also had some really good writing - I think Cook’s writing itself is very impressive for a debut author.
The beginning of this book was also excellent! I loved that it dove right into the action and gave us two very powerful scenes right off the bat.
And please, if you liked this book, stop here. 🙏 I’m going to mention minor spoilers below.
Then� it lost me a bit� from maybe 25ish? To 50%� I was a tiny bit bored. It was a lot of exposition and talking and honestly I felt like things were reiterated multiple times. I kept being like “I know this already. Why are we saying it again?�
There is a section from maybe 50-70% where it picked up again. We got to see more development and plot movement.
Then the ending sequences and twists started happening. And I’m sorry� but I predicted EVERYTHING. From the first mini twist to the big reveal to the epilogue. It was SO predictable - I can point to plot moments where it felt like the author handed me her entire plot summary with one or two lines. I get this is YA but teens aren’t dumb�. Come on.
Okay�. Actually? Tasha is dumb. I’m sorry�. She didn’t make any smart choices and the fact that everything surprised her just made me roll my eyes. No inklings?? There was a time when the MMC specifically tells her XX was at a scene and she just went “nahhhh impossible� - with no suspicion at all. Yet when she is told something about the MMC that is OBVIOUSLY not true, she’s like “omg how dare you.� 😶🙄
Leo? Ugh. 😑 He’s just� nothing? I hated that he didn’t feel real to me. One time, he’s flirting and getting with this other girl and next minute, he’s in love with the FMC? These two had such non-chemistry. Because what this book does is rely on their PAST relationship to make them perfect for one another, a past we never get to see. Their present interactions are barely tolerable? I’m so confused why I need to root for them?
Oh wait, it’s because Ravi is just a simp with no actual personality outside of loving Tasha. Ugh. 😑 So we can’t like him. The author gives us no choice to even possibly like him because he’s just a wealthy man with an attachment to her and a need to protect her. That’s it. That’s his personality.
I think that’s where this novel fell short for me: obvious foreshadowing and poor characterization. Tasha should have been a character I LOVED. I love bitchy protagonists - they’re my fav. But Tasha was not that? The beginning, yes. But throughout the book, we only had very small moments of her being like that while the rest of the time, she just didn’t use her brain.
And the ending�. Was the worst of it. No. Just NO. (Major spoiler below!) This is what moved me from 3 to 2 stars.)
After spouting that she didn’t want to be under her sister, she let herself get tied to a MAN in order to keep what? A mafia that doesn’t matter at all because everyone she loved in it is either DEAD or against her?????? What even is the POINT anymore????????? If she had gone with her sister, who btw was actually trying to make something but got twisted along the way - she could have convinced her sister to keep Leo alive and they could have potentially been a POWERHOUSE of female superiority. But instead she lets Ravj give her a ring??? Promises to marry him?? Again, so she can protect a mafia she doesn’t even KNOW???? Her dad is dead, Victor is dead. All she has is Matteo and tbh, just bring him to the dark side too? Hahaha. 😂 I just can’t believe that I trust HER SISTER more because she actually had a plan and a reason and SUPPORT. She was a female in power! With NO man above her. Tasha has nothing but a man giving her power. 🤷♀�
I do know this has a sequel but I can’t deal with this anymore. I’m super disappointed. 😢
I’ll start with the good. This book had a unique premise that you don’t normally see in YA. It’s the kind of book I gravitate towards: an original idea! We also had some really good writing - I think Cook’s writing itself is very impressive for a debut author.
The beginning of this book was also excellent! I loved that it dove right into the action and gave us two very powerful scenes right off the bat.
And please, if you liked this book, stop here. 🙏 I’m going to mention minor spoilers below.
Then� it lost me a bit� from maybe 25ish? To 50%� I was a tiny bit bored. It was a lot of exposition and talking and honestly I felt like things were reiterated multiple times. I kept being like “I know this already. Why are we saying it again?�
There is a section from maybe 50-70% where it picked up again. We got to see more development and plot movement.
Then the ending sequences and twists started happening. And I’m sorry� but I predicted EVERYTHING. From the first mini twist to the big reveal to the epilogue. It was SO predictable - I can point to plot moments where it felt like the author handed me her entire plot summary with one or two lines. I get this is YA but teens aren’t dumb�. Come on.
Okay�. Actually? Tasha is dumb. I’m sorry�. She didn’t make any smart choices and the fact that everything surprised her just made me roll my eyes. No inklings?? There was a time when the MMC specifically tells her XX was at a scene and she just went “nahhhh impossible� - with no suspicion at all. Yet when she is told something about the MMC that is OBVIOUSLY not true, she’s like “omg how dare you.� 😶🙄
Leo? Ugh. 😑 He’s just� nothing? I hated that he didn’t feel real to me. One time, he’s flirting and getting with this other girl and next minute, he’s in love with the FMC? These two had such non-chemistry. Because what this book does is rely on their PAST relationship to make them perfect for one another, a past we never get to see. Their present interactions are barely tolerable? I’m so confused why I need to root for them?
Oh wait, it’s because Ravi is just a simp with no actual personality outside of loving Tasha. Ugh. 😑 So we can’t like him. The author gives us no choice to even possibly like him because he’s just a wealthy man with an attachment to her and a need to protect her. That’s it. That’s his personality.
I think that’s where this novel fell short for me: obvious foreshadowing and poor characterization. Tasha should have been a character I LOVED. I love bitchy protagonists - they’re my fav. But Tasha was not that? The beginning, yes. But throughout the book, we only had very small moments of her being like that while the rest of the time, she just didn’t use her brain.
And the ending�. Was the worst of it. No. Just NO. (Major spoiler below!) This is what moved me from 3 to 2 stars.)
After spouting that she didn’t want to be under her sister, she let herself get tied to a MAN in order to keep what? A mafia that doesn’t matter at all because everyone she loved in it is either DEAD or against her?????? What even is the POINT anymore????????? If she had gone with her sister, who btw was actually trying to make something but got twisted along the way - she could have convinced her sister to keep Leo alive and they could have potentially been a POWERHOUSE of female superiority. But instead she lets Ravj give her a ring??? Promises to marry him?? Again, so she can protect a mafia she doesn’t even KNOW???? Her dad is dead, Victor is dead. All she has is Matteo and tbh, just bring him to the dark side too? Hahaha. 😂 I just can’t believe that I trust HER SISTER more because she actually had a plan and a reason and SUPPORT. She was a female in power! With NO man above her. Tasha has nothing but a man giving her power. 🤷♀�
I do know this has a sequel but I can’t deal with this anymore. I’m super disappointed. 😢
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
July 3, 2024Young Adult Mafia?
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March 21, 2025
"What would you do if I said no?"
This book is the moment. It’s Gossip Girl meets The Sopranos with a sparkle of Dynasty, and I could not get enough.
📖 Read this if you love:
🔪 High-stakes family drama & billionaire secrets
🦁 Friends to enemies to lovers
💀 Characters who flirt with danger
💔 Morally grey characters who steal your heart
I still remember scrolling through Threads/Instagram late one night when I randomly stumbled upon a post from Elora Cook, looking for street team members for In the Company of Killers. Let's shoot my shot; this sounds like such a promising novel, right up my alley I thought. I signed up, fully prepared to be overlooked, because let’s be honest, there are always way too many applicants for these things. And then... I got the email.
Seeing the words “Welcome to The Killer Squad� in my inbox felt surreal. I still can’t believe it. From that moment on, being a part of this journey has been nothing short of amazing: watching this debut unfold, hyping up ITCOK with fellow readers, getting early sneak peeks, and witnessing all the excitement leading up to release day.
Elora Cook is an author to watch. This is only the beginning for her, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Now, what am I actually talking about?
🦁 Seventeen-year-old Natasha "Tasha" Nicastro has spent her life wrapped in luxury, unaware that her family's wealth and power are built on blood. As the daughter of Gabriel Nicastro, the most feared mafia boss in New York, she has carefully carved out a life separate from the violence that surrounds her. But when her father and older sister are murdered during a party at their mansion, everything changes.
"My family had a Mafia. One powerful enough that someone gunning them down was seen as some grand accomplishment instead of what it was—heinous murder."�
In the wake of their deaths, Tasha learns that her future was never hers to decide. She is the Nicastro Mafia’s new heir, whether she wants the throne or not. Determined to take control of her fate and uncover the truth behind the killings, she forges an uneasy alliance with Leo Danesi, her former best friend and the heir to a rival crime family.
⚜️ Leo isn’t just a complication—he’s the complication. Dangerous, magnetic, and impossible to ignore, he forces Tasha to confront feelings she’s long buried. But there’s another problem: Ravi, the ex who’s never really been an ex. With betrayal lurking at every turn and emotional war brewing between characters, Tasha must decide who she can trust and how far she's willing to go to claim her power. Because in a world built on blood and secrets, survival isn’t just a choice; it’s the only option 🔫.
💭My Thoughts
This book consumed me. From the first page, Elora Cook wrote a world so immersive that you can feel the tension crackling in the air. Tasha is the kind of protagonist I live for—sharp, ruthless, and unapologetically powerful, but underneath it all, she’s just a girl (🎀) trying to make sense of the world that was violently forced upon her.
“We’ve been raised in the company of killers all our lives, Tasha.�
Every interaction, whether between Tasha and Leo, Tasha and Ravi or even side characters felt very real. And the love triangle? Somehow I liked this Leo vs Ravi thing going on 🫢. Their dynamic wasn't forced nor overdone, just raw chemistry and painful choices.
“Does he always speak for you, Nicastro?”�
“Only when she needs me to,� Ravi replied.
GAHHHHH.
Leo. My poor boy was going through it. You could feel his yearning, the way his emotions simmered under the surface in every scene. He wasn’t just drawn to Tasha, but rather desperate for her, caught between wanting to claim her and knowing he could never truly have her ❤️�. Getting too close to Tasha means stepping further into a world he might not survive. Above that, his support for her future as Nicastro Mafia heir is unwavering. He believes in her when she loses herself. The tension between them was unbearable in the best way, every stolen glance a silent confession.
“If I couldn’t be there for her, there was no excuse or reassurance in the world that would stop the guilt from suffocating me.�
Beyond the romance, In the Company of Killers is a story about family, loyalty, and identity. The atmosphere was rich-core perfection: mansions, high society parties, whispers of murder behind designer sunglasses. I was honestly imagining many of Dynasty (2017) characters as cast for this book. Tasha’s internal struggles were some of the best parts of the book. She wants freedom, yet she’s tied to a name that defines her whole future, whether she likes it or not. Tasha is an icon, one of my favorite heroines.
"Please. I wore my bitch badge with pride."
One thing I usually mind in books is long chapters. I love short ones that keep the pacing tight. But here? I didn’t even notice. The story moves so fast, the tension is so thick, that you don’t get bored for a single second. Even the longer chapters fly by because every moment matters.
I might have to cry for the fact this book is now over. I can’t believe it. I need more. Like, immediately 🤲🏼 . A sequel, a spinoff, movie or TV show. SOMETHING. These characters have lodged themselves into my heart, and I need more of the Nicastro-Danesi universe. Until then, I’ll be here, screaming into the void. I refuse to leave these characters behind‼️💔.
If you love high tension, morally grey decisions, and a romance that will make you scream into your pillow, you need this book.
Elora Cook, if you see this�thank you. For the story, for the experience, for letting me be part of this wild journey. And if I ever get the chance to meet you in person, just know I will be begging for more of this world.
�Huge thanks to Elora and the publisher for the e-ARC. It's been an honor to have this be my first experience of being streetteam member!
Whatever comes next, I’ll be there 💫
September 10, 2024
Thank you to the author for sending me an advanced reader copy! ❤️🔪🥀
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In The Company of Killers takes you on a wild ride of Romeo and Juliet style romantic tension, themes of family, friendship and loyalty, with quippy banter and scathing one-liners which will leave you wanting more.
I loved Tasha and Leo’s stakeouts and investigations, despite them unravelling a web of lies and deceit ITCOK is a fast-paced read that will keep you guessing until the very end.
And omg the ending made me literally gasp. THE SEQUEL CANNOT COME FAST ENOUGH ❤️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In The Company of Killers takes you on a wild ride of Romeo and Juliet style romantic tension, themes of family, friendship and loyalty, with quippy banter and scathing one-liners which will leave you wanting more.
I loved Tasha and Leo’s stakeouts and investigations, despite them unravelling a web of lies and deceit ITCOK is a fast-paced read that will keep you guessing until the very end.
And omg the ending made me literally gasp. THE SEQUEL CANNOT COME FAST ENOUGH ❤️
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