Review: The One (Untouchables Mafia #3) by Lucy Darling

Plot Summary

One look at her was all it took. Now I'll stop at nothing to keep her, even if it means burning the rest of this city to the ground.

Angel

My senator father might appear perfect to the rest of the world, but I know he's a terrible man. I just had no idea my twin brother was worse. When a scarred, huge man came storming into my house and claiming I was in danger, I was sure he was one of my father's men sent to protect me. I never would have imagined I was being kidnapped by a man planning to keep me for his own.

Church

The world is full of cold and cruel people, and they say I'm the cruelest of them all. It wasn't by chance that I earned my nickname. It's well known that I'm the last stop for the most vile men before I send them to meet their maker. Most beg and plead, but I don't do emotions. Their confessions fall on deaf ears.

Until her.

The moment I laid eyes on her, I knew I had to have her. An angel who is the complete opposite of me. There was nothing cold about her. She is sweetness and sunshine, and I want her all for myself. Except there's one problem; I'm not the only one who does.

My Review

Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)

The One is an intense and possessive romance that follows Angel, a sheltered young woman, and Church, a ruthless man who becomes obsessed with her from the moment he sees her. Angel has spent her life under the control of her corrupt father, unaware of the dark truths surrounding her family. When Church crosses paths with her, he decides she belongs to him and takes matters into his own hands—kidnapping her under the belief that he’s saving her from an even worse fate.

The romance is built on obsession and absolute devotion. Church doesn’t simply want Angel; he needs her, and he will do whatever it takes to keep her by his side. His love is all-consuming, leaving no room for doubt or escape. While Angel initially resists, she finds herself drawn to the intensity of his emotions. Despite the fear and uncertainty, there is a strange sense of safety in his presence—something she has never experienced before.

As the story unfolds, Angel struggles to reconcile her captivity with the growing feelings she has for Church. He is brutal and unyielding to the world, but with her, he is fiercely protective and even tender in his own way. Every action he takes is fueled by his unwavering belief that she is his, and he won’t let anything or anyone take her away.

This novella moves quickly, focusing on the deep, almost primal connection between the two leads. Their relationship isn’t built on slow-burn romance or traditional love; instead, it thrives on intensity, possessiveness, and the idea that Angel was always meant to be Church’s. For readers who enjoy dark romance with dominant, obsessive heroes and heroines who slowly surrender to their fate, The One offers a fast-paced and steamy experience.