Heir of Deceit

by Traci Sek

Rule number one, always answer your phone. Rule number two, never speak until spoken to. Rule number three, address him only as sir. All my life I’ve been told to keep my head down, follow the rules, stick to the shadows and never show weakness. Rules don’t always keep us safe, a lesson I’ve come to learn. No one is safe regardless of those rules. The only way to do that is to never bring someone into this dark world, which is why I’m fine being single. That was until I met a stubborn chocolate-doe-eyed woman who knocked me off my feet. She was exactly what I needed and no matter how hard I fought her she pushed back ten times harder. Can I keep her light when my life is nothing but darkness?

260 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 14, 2023

About the author

Traci Sek also publishes under Traci Sekulovski.

Reviews

[Laura || unleashthefantasy · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️:10/5

I absolutely loved this amazing short spicy read.
This is my second book by this author, and I absolutely loved it with everything in my heart❤️

The MCs Emma & Matteo were beautiful and left you wanting more. Easily readable, but heavy contents. 🌶️🌶️

The little cute moments that they had were amazeballs💞

I also loved the little random parts that had the characters from the first book! The little parts with Marco and Gio were amazing I love how they interacted together💞

I love these books so much!

Overall, I enjoyed the book. I cannot wait to read the next book to find out how the rest of the story plays out.

Thank you Traci Sek for the ARC copy.🩵🩶🤍

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this was a different view on a mafia book. It wasn't a mafia born and bred with a silver spoon in his mouth not getting the girl. This was one that learned everything the extremely hard way and tried to keep the people he had left safe. It was a different twist from what I usually read in mafia books, which kept me reading it. Good read.

[Donna McEachran · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book in this series, this time with Matteo as the main character. Marco and Harper from book one and Gio and Alessandra from book three also make appearances. There is a little more information about the family in this book and a twist concerning Matteo. Now to await the third book, of which there is a preview.

I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

[Britney Chavez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even begin?! I am trying to find the words and not give anything away with this one….everyone needs to read this book, and series, if you love dark, intense, suspenseful mafia books!

I cannot tell you how much I swooned over Matteo. Like seriously this man gave me heart eyes while reading. I loved him in book one but man did he change in this book!

My girly Emma, now this feisty, sassy mouth lady…freaking LOVED her. She literally is queen, that line and part in the book, you know what I am talking about when you read it, just made me love her even more. She was the perfect heroine for Matteo.

These two were made for each other. With every intense situation they get in and the twist, made them stronger together.

Highly recommend you read this book. It is recommended that you read book 1 before getting into this story as it helps set this one up.
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5️⃣🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🖤🖤🖤🖤
10/10 recommendation‼️

[Jenn O'Leary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am still in shock after finishing this exciting book!
Heir of Deceit is Book 2 in the Blood Runs Deep series.
I highly recommend reading Master of Malice before diving into this one.
Matteo is still dealing with his fathers death, and has decided to never get involved with anyone.
Then he meets Emma.
Emma is a strong, independent, sassy young woman.
These two both feel a strong connection and attraction to one another, but Matteo tries to push Emma away. Well, Emma pushes right back. She is not willing to give up on him, and the amazing life she knows they could have together.
Matteo and Emma are explosive together. And Emma is there for Matteo when something terrible happens.
I really loved this book, and I cannot wait for Book 3!!
The epilogue had me wanting to throw my Kindle. Traci, how dare you. LOL.

[Ashley Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

(Not sure why GR erased my review but here I go again!)

Hooray for the second installment of the Blood Runs Deep series! I’ve watched the series grow from just ideas and I’ve loved how Matteo and Emma fit into this world. Emma is a bad ass and Matteo is the perfect hero for her! I’m excited for the third and final book- Gio better make me swoon 😍

Merged review:

I’ve had the pleasure of beta reading this book for Traci and I’ve enjoyed seeing it grow during the process. Matteo and Emma. What can I say?! Emma is badass, love her and love the deep sense of duty Matteo has to keep her safe from his dirty, dark world. Book two in the blood run deep series takes us further into their mafia world. Secrets unfold! Ready for book three and to get to know Gio. (I have a feeling I will love that man)

[Juana · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Blood Runs Deep series.

Matteo and Emma are the main characters in this one. Matteo is part of the mafia that does not question things and does what he is told. Emma on the other hand is not part of the world and does not have any idea about it. These two used to go to the same high school but were not in each others radar.

This of course changes the night they meet at Emma's work. From then on, neither can stop thinking about the other and can't really stay away from one another even though Matteo knows that his world is dangerous and unpredictable for someone like Emma.

I loved reading the ups and downs of these two. Obviously this book has a healthy amount of spice and plot which is important.

I highly recommend others read this and I can't wait for the next book in the series to come out later this year.

[Idalia Helaena · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Heir of Deceit” is a mafia romance by Traci Sek, and I honestly thought it was a good read!!! Matteo has been sucked into that life ever since his father was murdered in front of him, but he wants nothing to do with it. When he meets Emma, he’s attracted to her, but he’s afraid of putting her in danger. But Emma has a mind of her own, and he can’t make himself stay away from her. I liked Matteo and Emma’s relationship, but I felt like there was a lot of back and forth, and that they were both very hot and cold. I really felt for Matteo, and I could completely understand his hesitation about bringing someone into his life. I loved that Emma wasn’t afraid to stand up for herself, but I think that’s also one of the reasons why they clashed at times. All in all, I did enjoy this book, and I definitely want to read the next one!!!

[Tessa Slager · Rating 5 out of 5]

I AM SHOOKITH!!!
I loved Master of Malice, I adored Harper and Marco… but this… this.is.STUNNING!

Matteo and Emma are perfect. Matteo is that perfect balance of Alphahole on the outside and sweet/caring in private. Their relationship is so well written and fun.
The drama this book has…. HOLD ON PEOPLE! It’s a wild ride!!
Once again Traci writes spice really well, it’s not overtly sexual, but it’s also not fade to black. It’s just the perfect amount of sensual to not take away from the story.
This is a must read! I can’t wait to get my physical copies!!!

Oh, and that sneak peek…. Thanks for nothing Traci… thanks for nothing but questions and the NEED for more!!!
I’ve already marked my calendar for the third and final book!!!
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤

[Tasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Traci Sek did it again with another amazing book!
Matteo and Emma were just chef's kiss, unlike any other book I've ever seen in a mafia book which is exactly what I needed and the thing about Traci she knows to just put the right amount of spice to help make your experience better and the character growth for both of them was amazing, but I don't wanna put spoilers in this review but safe to say this book is highly recommended from me and is a must read ASAP.

Book overall rate: 4.5/5 for some stuff that happened.

Make sure to follow Traci Sek on Instagram for more amazing content and information about her upcoming releases.

[mafiagirl_writer · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG traci you did it again I read the book in 2 day and I was hooked and it had some spice to it if u haven’t read the series yet u should u live it as much as I do

Matteo and Emma are the main characters in this one. Matteo is part of the mafia that does not question things and does what he is told. Emma on the other hand is not part of the world and does not have any idea about it. These two used to go to the same high school but were not in each others radar I loved reading there ups and downs of these two.

[Juliesbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heir of Deceit by Traci Sek is book two in the Blood Runs Deep series. This is a mafia story, with multi POVs, spice, and a HEA.

This book centers on Matteo and Emma. I really liked Emma, she was feisty, sassy and didn’t let anything get in the way of who she wanted. I felt for Matteo and understood why he tried to push Emma away.

I enjoyed the story and I read it in one sitting. Im looking forward to the next book.

[Rosa Dunahue · Rating 5 out of 5]

In book 2 of this amazing mafia series, we get Matteo story. He is still having trouble deal with his father death and pushing everyone away. That is until he meets Emma, their chemistry is incredible from the start. The more he push her away, the more she refuses to go. Their journey is twists with surprises around every corner. Can they find their HEA in the end? You will definitely want to read to find out.

[Laura R · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a mafia story that centers around lower level mafia members. Matteo knows his fate is sealed and as such he doesn't want to bring a woman into his world. But after he comes to Emma's aid one night, she wants him and won't be deterred. Thus starts a hot and heavy relationship between these two. I certainly wasn't prepared for some of the surprises and twists in this story.

[Thaimelly Rigobello · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another easy read from Traci. It’s the second book of the Blood Runs Deep Series. It is so cute even though a lot happens - mafia right?! Matteo and Emma are meant to be. They are cute and they are hot together. Can’t wait for the next book. Thank you Traci for the review copy.

[Mica Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not usually drawn to mafia books, but if Traci Sek is writing them, count me in! Matteo and Emma’s story had me turning the page long after my bedtime! There’s the perfect amount of twists, heat, and love. I can’t wait for book 3 to get Gio’s story!

[Allison Comis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!! Characters and their chemistry were fire. This was somewhat dark and I loved it all. I can’t wait to read more of the characters stories. I loved Emma and Matteo especially. There was stuff that took place that I did not see coming. But it was perfect.

[Jessica Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

arc reader.
I loved Mateo and Emma story. it book 2 of the series. spicy and mafia romance. couldn't put it down can't wait for book 3.

[everything.kate.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heir of Deceit, the *riveting* second installment in the Blood Runs Deep Series, Matteo’s story emerges from the shadows he lives in. The story captures you, the spice makes you need a cold shower (dealers choice, I’m being polite) and the drama leaves you breathless.

I **would highly** suggest reading Master of Malice first. Seriously, take Marco and Harper’s trip, before you jump in the sleek, black sports car with Matteo and Emma.

*******Below is what I consider spoilers, I don’t know if you agree*************

Heir of Deceit allows Matteo to tell his story as he uncovers the truth about himself and has the perfect woman drag herself into his shadowy, secretive world.

After the death of his father before his eyes, Matteo shuts his emotions away, realizing that the motto “There’s only one way in and one way out.”

Emma enters his life with her take no crap attitude, and by fate and choice stays.

Marco has already decided that’s she is his to protect from “…things you can’t even imagine in your worst nightmares!”

Can he protect Emma or himself from some of the biggest secrets he doesn’t know yet, crowning him an Heir of Deceit or been given the second part of “There’s only one way in and one way out.”?

[Kelly Streeter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matteo's world changed when his father was killed in front of him, and her mum turned into an alcoholic so he had to take charge of the house and look after his mum, so he ends up as a leader of a gang.

Matteo as always said he was never going to bring anyone into his darkness, so he stays single.

Emma is working in a shop when she gets in trouble and ends up being saved with Matteo, but then she walks away, but he ends up seeing her again at a party.

Emma can't stop thinking about Matteo but he keeps trying to push her away but she is not having any of it, when he tries to warn her off him and walks away again.

But Matteo can't stay away from her and how stubborn she is when he pushes her she does it harder not willing to give up on him and what she wants, but Matteo knows if he makes Emma his she's in for life.

But when things happen and come out can Matteo keep Emma Safe, Will Emma get the man she wants and be happy.

[Books &Coffee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Traci, Traci, Traci, what did you do to me?

Where in book one our Matteo was a happy-go-lucky-ray-of-effen-mafia-baby, well, he ain't one here.

Heir of deceit indeed, and the deceit runs deep.

Book one left us on a tiny cliffhanger, a tiny cliffhanger that completely changes who Matteo is in this book.
Cold, callous, on the brim of explosion. Matteo now keeps himself away from everything and everyone, in attempt to keep safe whatever remains of his connections. But he can't escape HER. His feisty Emma. Much like Matteo, she's a bit broken, she's a bit bent, she's determined not to be put down ever again.

The twists, the turns, Traci had me on a roller coaster from start to finish.

Definitely recommend <3

Now, onto Gio. <3

[lovelust andbloodygoodbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks Traci for allowing me to be apart of your ARC and Street team.

This story follows the illustrious Matteo. He has been brought up within the mafia. HIs father Nicco was a soldier of Stefano, the head of the family. When Nicco was killed in an ambush his mother spiralled and it lead her to drink excessively. She could no longer cope, so when she does and leave's Matteo a note telling him his whole life and the one person he adored and relied on was not who he said he was Matteo is furious. Its only the sweetness and sass of the girl who has stole his heart that keeps him fighting and taking his rightful place.

Emma, is a young women, she left her family the second she could as they mistreated her. She was living with her friend and working to keep going, so when one night an older sexier Matteo walks in and her memories of the aloof boy at school shatters her memory she is drawn in. He saves her from a young thug but neither can get each other out of their minds. So when he turns up to the party at her place it seems like fate is sealing the deal. Can she break the walls down of the unknown Heir and will they both survive the fight.

This was a really good read. I enjoyed every second. The characters drew me in and kept me wanting to know more. Their story has pain, hurt, passion, plenty of sex and plenty of deceit. Overall a great read, i just felt like something was missing but i cant put my finger on what it is.

However That teaser for Book 3 OMG i can not blooming wait.....

My Overall Rating is 4 1/2 💋💋💋💋😘
My Character Rating is 5 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
My Smut Rating is 3 🍆🍆🍆
My Angst Rating is 3 😬😬😬

[Erika Bradley · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading Master of Malice and getting a preview of Matteo's emotional back story, I'd been so looking forward to Heir of Deceit. Finally got my hands on a copy and was not disappointed at all!

Trying not to give away any spoilers, so let me keep this short and sweet. The FMC (Emma ) is totally badass, which I love. She knows what she wants and goes for it. Heaven help Matteo the night she set her sights on him. He tries to resist her, but we already knew she stole his heart from their first reunion in the store.

Let me jump on Matteo for a bit. He's a soldier in the mafia, tall, dark and sexy, and he avoids relationships because he doesnt want to put anyone in danger. His attraction to Emma makes him vulnerable to his enemies, but he just can't stay away.

So of course he falls, and what happens next is nothing short of page-turning steam and action. Secrets are unearthed, disloyalities are uncovered, but throughout all the suspense and drama is the beautiful story of a sassy sweetheart and a cold-hearted gangster and the true love that kept them going in the darkest of times.

Heir of Deceit is book 2 of the Blood Runs Deep series and I enjoyed every bit! Looking forward to Gio's story in book 3!

[Shae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emma & Matteo


Rating 3.5 stars

Emma and Matteo

Heir of Deceit starts a bit slow, but halfway through and to the end, it heats up, and the action will keep you reading to the end.

It is a mafia family story with a difference. Matteo is a soldier in the family who has seen some difficult things in his young life. He is fighting with himself on how he could get out of the family because staying means no life or his own family.

Emma and Matteo knew each other from school but were not very close. She was always attracted to him, but now she has decided to put herself in his way since he was so quiet. Unfortunately, that means now that she has to stay in Matteo's world. Fortunately for her, Matteo is also very much attracted to her.

This relationship develops quickly, and it is also tested early. Will Emma convince Matteo she is there for him in good and bad times?

What did you like about this book?
Tragic, Action-packed, Twisted, Unpredictable, Steamy, Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Happily Ever After

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely amazing book! Wow just wonderful!!
This was about Matteo who grew up hard but was in the Italian Mafia then met a girl, Emma.
I really loved this book. It's the second in a trilogy and found it just as good as the first in the series, if not better.
The characters were great, likeable and really worked to build the story. Matteo and Emma had a substantial relationship that grew and was built on a solid foundation even though their world wasn't that supportive. They knew they had each other.
I really liked the other characters like Gio, Marco, Harper and Lessie and even Stefano. That all added to the story in their own way.
So well written I honestly can not wait for the final installment to the trilogy. I can't recommend this series highly enough. Great work Traci Sek!!

This was an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

How would you deal with having to see your father killed right in front of your eyes? Well, Matteo had to and as a result, his life changed but not for the better. Ms. Sek tells us the story of Matteo and Emma, two completely different people that are drawn to one another. Matteo not wanting to drag Emma into his world but the magnetism between the two of them is too strong for him to ignore. Will she fit into his life? Can he keep her safe? Secrets are revealed love develops and revenge is served.
I loved Emma as she was one girl that you would want on your side. She held nothing back, went after what she wanted and did not matter if there was anything or anyone in her way.
I loved the two of them together. To see the growth that happened between the two of them as well as individually. Add Heir Of Deceit to your TBR list and enjoy their HEA.

[Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Traci for letting me ARC read this amazing book.This was so good. Emma is a spit fire and gives Matteo a piece of her mind. Their relationship is wild and the spice was so good. You will have some heart breaking an shock moments. When it comes to Matteo I was so mad like how much more can Matteo go through. Emma has to be a strong woman with Matteo life so she is perfect for him. If you like dark mafia this book is for you. You better have some tissue because Traci was not nice to Matteo. I keep say what else can you do to this poor man. Omg when Emma steps up and takes care of business I was like dang girl get it.

[Darlene Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Blood Runs Deep Series. The story follows Matteo some time after his dad is unalived in front of him. He meets Emma and things just get even better from there. Emma is this spit-fire woman who clearly has been attracted to Matteo for sometime. I love that she finally gets to really know him through this story. Matteo is a young man with anger issues but he’s bottled things up for so long it’s understandable and the fact that Emma understands that is even better.

I definitely loved his story more than the novella, but I loved the novella so much too. I’m excited for the next!

[Jo-Ann Forrest · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I read from this author and I like her style. This action packed, different kind of mafia book is very interesting and worth staying up all night to finish this nail biting story. Matteo and Emma went to the same high school and yet they are not living in the same world. He is from mafia and doesn't want her involved in this side of his life. The push and pull and hot - heavy interactions from Emma and Matteo is an interesting twist on things. Great story, I will make sure to read more from this author.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you traci for letting me read this as an arc. This was the second book in this series. I definitely liked it better than the novella. I have read most of Tracis books, and I’m liking her darker writing. However sometimes I feel her adjectives are either a bit aggressive for the scene or not quite the right word. The story is great, the characters are good and I’m looking forward to see what goes on in book 3.