Ivy Scott's Easy Steal is a compelling dive into the world of organized crime, romance, and personal identity. The novel, centered around the characters Livie and Samuel, offers a fresh take on the classic trope of fake dating, set against the backdrop of a crime family rivalry. This book is a fascinating exploration of personal growth, the quest for respect, and the complexities of love.

The narrative kicks off with Livie, a character who immediately captures the reader's attention with her candid admission of a mistake that has landed her in a precarious situation. Owing a favor to Sammy Santino, she finds herself entangled in a plan to dismantle a rival crime family. Livie's voice is authentic and relatable, providing a strong anchor for the story. Her initial reluctance and subsequent acceptance of her role in Sammy's plan highlight her pragmatic nature, while her internal conflict adds depth to her character.

On the other hand, Samuel, or Sammy, presents a contrasting yet complementary perspective. Often overshadowed by his brother, the Don, Antoni Santino, Sammy is portrayed as the quintessential "spare" in a world where power and influence are paramount. His passion for cars and his desire to remain in the background are disrupted by the need to step up and prove his worth. This internal struggle is a central theme in the novel, as Sammy grapples with his identity and the expectations placed upon him by his family.

The chemistry between Livie and Sammy is palpable from the outset. Their interactions are laced with tension and unspoken attraction, making their fake dating arrangement both entertaining and fraught with complications. Scott skillfully navigates their evolving relationship, using it as a vehicle to explore themes of trust, vulnerability, and self-discovery. As Livie and Sammy pretend to be a couple to make Sammy's dream girl jealous, they both confront their feelings and desires, leading to unexpected revelations.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its character development. Livie and Sammy are well-rounded, with distinct voices and motivations. Livie's journey from a reluctant participant to someone who takes control of her destiny is particularly compelling. Her growth is mirrored by Sammy, who transitions from a man content with his secondary role to someone who actively seeks respect and love. This parallel development adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, making their eventual union feel earned and satisfying.

Scott's writing is both engaging and evocative, capturing the nuances of her characters' emotions and the tension of their circumstances. The dialogue is sharp and often laced with humor, providing moments of levity amidst the high-stakes drama. The pacing is well-balanced, with the plot unfolding at a steady pace that keeps the reader invested in the outcome.

In terms of themes, Easy Steal delves into the idea of identity and the roles we play in our lives. Both Livie and Sammy are forced to confront who they are versus who they want to be, a journey that resonates with anyone who has ever felt trapped by expectations. The novel also explores the concept of family, both biological and chosen, and the lengths we go to for those we care about.

Comparatively, Easy Steal shares thematic similarities with other works in the romantic suspense genre, such as Elle Kennedy's Off-Campus series or Meghan March's Mount Trilogy. However, Scott's novel distinguishes itself with its focus on character introspection and the intricacies of familial duty. The crime family setting adds an additional layer of intrigue, providing a unique backdrop for the romance to unfold.

Overall, Easy Steal is a captivating read that combines romance, suspense, and personal growth in a seamless narrative. Ivy Scott has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page. Whether you're a fan of romantic suspense or simply looking for a story with heart and depth, Easy Steal is a novel that delivers on all fronts.