Marian Tee's Own Me is a compelling dive into the world of power, passion, and peril, set against the backdrop of the mafia's intricate web. This book, which combines two previously published works, Her Ruthless Owner and Her Cruel One-Sided Love, offers readers a gripping narrative that explores themes of love, loyalty, and identity.

The story begins with a classic rags-to-riches transformation. Our protagonist, an eighteen-year-old girl, finds herself plucked from the depths of poverty and thrust into the opulent yet dangerous world of the Marchetti family. The Marchettis, a powerful mafia dynasty, demand loyalty and sacrifice, and our heroine is no exception. She is revealed to be the long-lost bride of Massimo Marchetti, a formidable mafia boss and Boston's most dangerous billionaire.

From the outset, the novel establishes a tension-filled atmosphere. The protagonist's journey from homelessness to becoming a mafia bride is fraught with emotional and psychological challenges. The concept of marriage in this context is subverted; it is not a union of equals but rather a relationship defined by ownership and power dynamics. Massimo's chilling declaration, "Forget about me being your husband…and think of me as your owner instead," sets the tone for their tumultuous relationship.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Own Me is its exploration of identity and self-worth. The protagonist's struggle to assert her identity in a world that views her as a pawn is both heart-wrenching and empowering. Her determination to fight for her place in Massimo's life, despite the odds stacked against her, is a testament to her resilience and strength.

The character development in Own Me is nuanced and layered. The protagonist is not a passive victim but a complex character with her own desires and motivations. Her journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment, as she navigates the treacherous waters of mafia politics and familial expectations. Massimo, on the other hand, is a character shrouded in mystery and contradiction. His outward cruelty masks a deeper vulnerability, and his internal conflict adds depth to his character.

The secondary characters, particularly the protagonist's sister Ynez, play pivotal roles in the narrative. Ynez's relationship with Massimo adds an additional layer of complexity to the story, as it challenges the protagonist's sense of self and her place in Massimo's life. The dynamic between the sisters is fraught with tension and rivalry, yet it also highlights themes of familial loyalty and betrayal.

Marian Tee's writing style is both evocative and engaging. Her ability to create vivid imagery and convey intense emotions draws readers into the story, making them feel the protagonist's struggles and triumphs. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with moments of high tension interspersed with introspective passages that allow for character development and reflection.

In terms of thematic exploration, Own Me delves into the complexities of love and power. The novel challenges traditional notions of romance, presenting a relationship that is both toxic and transformative. The power dynamics between the protagonist and Massimo are central to the narrative, raising questions about control, consent, and autonomy.

Comparatively, Own Me shares thematic similarities with other mafia romance novels, such as Cora Reilly's Born in Blood Mafia Chronicles and Tillie Cole's Scarred Souls series. Like these works, Tee's novel explores the intersection of love and danger, where characters must navigate the treacherous world of organized crime while grappling with their own desires and fears.

Overall, Own Me is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of dark romance and mafia fiction. Its exploration of power, identity, and love is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. Marian Tee has crafted a story that is as thrilling as it is poignant, leaving readers eager for more.

For those interested in exploring this intense and passionate narrative, Own Me is available on major platforms such as Amazon and Goodreads.