Book Review: "Crow" by A. Zavarelli | Narrated by Tracy Marks

A. Jean
May 12
4 min read

If you’re in the mood for a delicious romance set against the shadowy backdrop of the Irish mafia, look no further than Crow, the first installment in A. Zavarelli’s Boston Underworld series. With its intricate plot, richly developed characters, and a touch of danger, Crow is a standout addition to the mafia romance genres. Whether you’re a fan of emotionally charged stories or simply love an audiobook with authentic narration, this book delivers on all fronts.

A Riveting Plot with High Stakes

At the heart of Crow is Mackenzie (Mack), a fiercely independent and loyal woman with a hidden agenda. Self tasked with infiltrating Boston’s Irish underworld in search of her friend who's gone missing and maybe some revenge, she quickly finds herself tangled in a web of loyalty, attraction, and danger. Enter Lachlan Crow, the owner of the strip club Mack's friend last worked in and a dangerous, powerful man within the Irish mafia empire, whose presence is as magnetic as it is menacing. What begins as a mission driven by friends loyalty, the need for answers, and vengeance soon transforms into a compelling tale of love, trust, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.

A. Zavarelli masterfully blends suspense, romance, and raw emotion into a story that keeps readers on edge. The plot is layered and engaging, pulling you deeper into the dangerous world of Boston’s criminal underbelly with every chapter.

Writing That Brings the Underworld to Life

Zavarelli’s writing is nothing short of captivating. Her knack for vivid descriptions immerses readers in the gritty, high-stakes atmosphere of the Irish mafia. From fight scenes to the tension-filled conversations between characters, the world-building in Crow is impeccable.

The narrative strikes a perfect balance: fast-paced but not rushed, emotional but never melodramatic. Zavarelli’s ability to weave suspense into the romance gives the story a unique edge, making it impossible to put down.

Characters That Leave a Lasting Impression

It’s the characters that truly drive Crow. Lachlan Crow is the quintessential morally grey romance hero—dangerous but undeniably captivating. He’s more than just a brooding mafia criminal; his complexity and vulnerability make him feel real and relatable.

Mackenzie, on the other hand, is a breath of fresh air. Strong, resilient, loyal to a fault, and unapologetically independent, she’s not your typical damsel in distress. Her quick wit and unwavering determination make her a perfect match for Lachlan’s intensity, and their chemistry is electric.

The relationship between Lachlan and Mackenzie is a rollercoaster of emotions, from fiery attraction to moments of genuine connection. Zavarelli excels at capturing the push-and-pull dynamic between them, making their journey both heart-wrenching and rewarding.

A Standout Audiobook Performance

For audiobook enthusiasts, Crow offers an experience that’s hard to beat. Narrated by the talented Tracy Marks, the story comes to life in a way that’s immersive and unforgettable.

Marks’ authentic Irish accent adds a layer of depth and realism to the characters, particularly Lachlan and his crew. Her ability to convey emotion and nuance enhances the tension, passion, and vulnerability found throughout the story. For fans of audiobooks, Marks’ performance is reason enough to dive into this series.

A Genre Gem

As a mafia romance, Crow ticks all the boxes while still carving out its own identity. It embraces the power dynamics, danger, and high-stakes drama you’d expect from the genre, yet it also delivers emotional complexity and character-driven storytelling that elevates it beyond the typical tropes.

Why I Keep Coming Back to This Story

Having revisited Crow multiple times, I can confidently say this book has lasting appeal. The combination of Zavarelli’s expert storytelling and Marks’ masterful narration creates an addictive listening experience. If you have a soft spot for authentic Irish accents in audiobooks, this one is a must-listen.

A Strong Start to a Promising Series

Crow serves as an excellent entry point into the Boston Underworld series, setting the stage for the dark, dangerous, and emotionally charged stories that follow. If you’re already a fan of Zavarelli’s Bleeding Hearts series, you’ll recognize her signature style of crafting intricate plots and emotionally resonant characters.

Who Should Read (or Listen to) This Book?

Crow is perfect for:

Fans of mafia romance genres
Audiobook lovers who appreciate authentic accents
Readers who enjoy strong, independent heroines
Those who love morally complex, brooding heroes
Anyone seeking a romance with depth, intensity, and a gripping plot

Final Thoughts and Rating

With its compelling characters, intense chemistry, and intricate storytelling, Crow is a gem in the dark romance genre. Whether you’re reading or listening, you’ll be captivated by the dangerous allure of Lachlan Crow and Mackenzie’s journey.

Rating: ★★★★★Crow isn’t just a book—it’s an experience. From the moment you step into its dark, dangerous world, you won’t want to leave. If you haven’t yet explored A. Zavarelli’s Boston Underworld series, this is the perfect place to start.

So, grab your headphones or your copy of the book, and prepare to be swept away into a world of danger, desire, and unforgettable characters.