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Vengeance & Vows #1
Ruthless Vengeance
One night with a mafia boss changed my life...
I fell for him, but danger loomed ahead...
When I was taken hostage, he declared war...
That's exactly what happened when I met Owen Walsh, the head of the Irish Mafia. I was just a bartender trying to make ends meet when I took a job at a restaurant in Misso City.
I had no idea that it was a front for the mafia, or that I would end up working for the most dangerous man in the city.
From the moment I met him, I was drawn to him.
He was tough, surly, and uncompromising - everything I wasn't.
But despite our differences, we couldn't resist each other.
We started sleeping together, and I soon found myself entangled in his world of organized crime. I knew it was dangerous, but I couldn't help myself.
I was falling for him, even though I knew I shouldn't be.
And then, things took a turn for the worse. The Italians, our rivals, were always looking for ways to take us down.
And when they took me hostage to weaken Owen, I knew that we were in for a fight.
But I also knew that Owen would stop at nothing to get me back.
He declared all-out war on our enemies, and I was right by his side. RUTHLESS VENGEANCE is the Book One in the Vengeance & Vows Mafia Romance series, tales of love, danger, and the brutal world of organized crime. Grab your copy today and discover what it truly means to be ruthless in the name of love.
I fell for him, but danger loomed ahead...
When I was taken hostage, he declared war...
That's exactly what happened when I met Owen Walsh, the head of the Irish Mafia. I was just a bartender trying to make ends meet when I took a job at a restaurant in Misso City.
I had no idea that it was a front for the mafia, or that I would end up working for the most dangerous man in the city.
From the moment I met him, I was drawn to him.
He was tough, surly, and uncompromising - everything I wasn't.
But despite our differences, we couldn't resist each other.
We started sleeping together, and I soon found myself entangled in his world of organized crime. I knew it was dangerous, but I couldn't help myself.
I was falling for him, even though I knew I shouldn't be.
And then, things took a turn for the worse. The Italians, our rivals, were always looking for ways to take us down.
And when they took me hostage to weaken Owen, I knew that we were in for a fight.
But I also knew that Owen would stop at nothing to get me back.
He declared all-out war on our enemies, and I was right by his side. RUTHLESS VENGEANCE is the Book One in the Vengeance & Vows Mafia Romance series, tales of love, danger, and the brutal world of organized crime. Grab your copy today and discover what it truly means to be ruthless in the name of love.
188 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 14, 2023
182 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Hope Stone
61 books337 followersHope Stone is avid reader and writer of dark and gritty romance books. Hope's pulse pounding stories are filled with intense action, heat, irresistible alphas and feisty women. Grab a FREE copy of the Guardians Of Mayhem MC Prequel --> https://hopestonereaders.com/guardian...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 4, 2025
Short book but the sweetness in relationship came through as well as struggle of having relationship in mob, yes mafia trope! Pretty good!
September 28, 2023
Rated
4 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kindle Unlimited Read
4 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kindle Unlimited Read
June 2, 2023
Not a book just a short story
The book starts out great. The first couple of chapters are well written. Then it just seems rushed. Like the author was given one hour to finish the book. There are no "guts" to it. Just a brief outline of a story. I am super disappointed because there is potential with the storyline.
The book starts out great. The first couple of chapters are well written. Then it just seems rushed. Like the author was given one hour to finish the book. There are no "guts" to it. Just a brief outline of a story. I am super disappointed because there is potential with the storyline.
May 2, 2023
I am voluntarily reviewing an advanced reader copy of this book.
Ruby Cross needed a change of scenery after her now ex-fiancé took her heart and stamped on it. They had been together for nearly three years when she discovered that he was cheating on her with a married woman, who also just happened to be the mayor’s wife. Her life in Toka Hills was one she wanted to leave behind along with the pity stares and the whispers behind the hand when she walked by. She has been living Misso City for the past two weeks staying in her best friend’s spare room and needs a job quickly. She has plenty of waitressing experience so when she spotted a vacancy for Walsh’s Irish Eatery it seemed the perfect fit. Meeting the owner Owen Walsh was something that she wasn’t expecting, and the chemistry was something that she had never experienced before, he was a man that wielded power and authority without trying but this man has secrets and the more she becomes involved with his life the more real the danger becomes. Is Ruby ready to risk everything including her life for love or should she run in the opposite direction?
Owen Walsh had always known that running the Irish mafia was his future there was no choice in his destiny, but one thing that he has enjoyed since taking over from his father is the legitimate business of Walsh’s Irish Eatery, it was one of the places that he liked spending time. So, when he spots one of the bartenders stealing from the bar and skimming off the top, he makes sure that he realizes exactly who he has been stealing from. They need a new bartender and fast but when he meets Ruby, he can tell that she is someone special and that he should stay far away, he has never done relationships and wasn’t about to start now especially with the Italian mafia trying to steal his shipments. But the more that Owen tries to stay away the more he craves being around her and the temptation becomes too much. Falling for Ruby was easy but keeping her safe may be impossible. Will love to be his downfall or the making of the man that he always was, or will his lifestyle steal the woman that he loves?
I really loved this book, and it was a fantastic start to a series that I cannot wait to read more of. Ruby was a heroine that loved with her heart but was no walk over and Owen was grumpy and protective in the best possible way. Highly recommended 5* read.
Ruby Cross needed a change of scenery after her now ex-fiancé took her heart and stamped on it. They had been together for nearly three years when she discovered that he was cheating on her with a married woman, who also just happened to be the mayor’s wife. Her life in Toka Hills was one she wanted to leave behind along with the pity stares and the whispers behind the hand when she walked by. She has been living Misso City for the past two weeks staying in her best friend’s spare room and needs a job quickly. She has plenty of waitressing experience so when she spotted a vacancy for Walsh’s Irish Eatery it seemed the perfect fit. Meeting the owner Owen Walsh was something that she wasn’t expecting, and the chemistry was something that she had never experienced before, he was a man that wielded power and authority without trying but this man has secrets and the more she becomes involved with his life the more real the danger becomes. Is Ruby ready to risk everything including her life for love or should she run in the opposite direction?
Owen Walsh had always known that running the Irish mafia was his future there was no choice in his destiny, but one thing that he has enjoyed since taking over from his father is the legitimate business of Walsh’s Irish Eatery, it was one of the places that he liked spending time. So, when he spots one of the bartenders stealing from the bar and skimming off the top, he makes sure that he realizes exactly who he has been stealing from. They need a new bartender and fast but when he meets Ruby, he can tell that she is someone special and that he should stay far away, he has never done relationships and wasn’t about to start now especially with the Italian mafia trying to steal his shipments. But the more that Owen tries to stay away the more he craves being around her and the temptation becomes too much. Falling for Ruby was easy but keeping her safe may be impossible. Will love to be his downfall or the making of the man that he always was, or will his lifestyle steal the woman that he loves?
I really loved this book, and it was a fantastic start to a series that I cannot wait to read more of. Ruby was a heroine that loved with her heart but was no walk over and Owen was grumpy and protective in the best possible way. Highly recommended 5* read.
August 8, 2024
My Rating: ★★★★☆
"Ruthless Vengeance" by Hope Stone is a riveting start to the Vengeance & Vows Mafia Romance series, blending danger and passion into a captivating narrative. From the first page, the story draws readers into a world of organized crime and intense romance, where the stakes are high and the emotions run deep.
The protagonist, a bartender trying to make ends meet, finds herself thrust into the dangerous world of the Irish Mafia after a chance encounter with Owen Walsh, the formidable mafia boss. Her initial intrigue with Owen quickly transforms into a passionate and perilous relationship, pulling her deeper into a life of crime and conflict. The chemistry between them is electric, and their dynamic is fraught with tension and undeniable attraction.
One of the novel’s strengths lies in its fast-paced and gripping plot. The conflict with the Italian rivals adds an extra layer of tension, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Owen's declaration of war to rescue his love showcases his ruthless determination and the lengths he's willing to go for her, making for some truly intense and memorable moments.
However, I did feel that some aspects of the story were slightly rushed. Certain plot points and character developments could have been more fleshed out to add emotional depth and complexity. Despite this, the book remains a highly engaging read that I devoured in just a few hours.
Hope Stone’s writing style is immersive and evocative, bringing the gritty, dangerous world of the mafia to life. The romantic and dramatic elements are well-executed, and the protagonist’s journey from an unsuspecting bartender to a key player in a mafia war is both compelling and thrilling.
Overall, "Ruthless Vengeance" is a promising introduction to the Vengeance & Vows series. It's a tale of love and danger that will leave readers eager for more. Fans of mafia romance with a touch of ruthlessness in the name of love will find much to enjoy in this book.
In conclusion, "Ruthless Vengeance" is a captivating read that blends intense romance and high-stakes drama seamlessly. Hope Stone's storytelling continues to shine, making this book a must-read for fans of the genre. If you're looking for a gripping story with passionate characters and a thrilling plot, "Ruthless Vengeance" is an excellent choice.
"Ruthless Vengeance" by Hope Stone is a riveting start to the Vengeance & Vows Mafia Romance series, blending danger and passion into a captivating narrative. From the first page, the story draws readers into a world of organized crime and intense romance, where the stakes are high and the emotions run deep.
The protagonist, a bartender trying to make ends meet, finds herself thrust into the dangerous world of the Irish Mafia after a chance encounter with Owen Walsh, the formidable mafia boss. Her initial intrigue with Owen quickly transforms into a passionate and perilous relationship, pulling her deeper into a life of crime and conflict. The chemistry between them is electric, and their dynamic is fraught with tension and undeniable attraction.
One of the novel’s strengths lies in its fast-paced and gripping plot. The conflict with the Italian rivals adds an extra layer of tension, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Owen's declaration of war to rescue his love showcases his ruthless determination and the lengths he's willing to go for her, making for some truly intense and memorable moments.
However, I did feel that some aspects of the story were slightly rushed. Certain plot points and character developments could have been more fleshed out to add emotional depth and complexity. Despite this, the book remains a highly engaging read that I devoured in just a few hours.
Hope Stone’s writing style is immersive and evocative, bringing the gritty, dangerous world of the mafia to life. The romantic and dramatic elements are well-executed, and the protagonist’s journey from an unsuspecting bartender to a key player in a mafia war is both compelling and thrilling.
Overall, "Ruthless Vengeance" is a promising introduction to the Vengeance & Vows series. It's a tale of love and danger that will leave readers eager for more. Fans of mafia romance with a touch of ruthlessness in the name of love will find much to enjoy in this book.
In conclusion, "Ruthless Vengeance" is a captivating read that blends intense romance and high-stakes drama seamlessly. Hope Stone's storytelling continues to shine, making this book a must-read for fans of the genre. If you're looking for a gripping story with passionate characters and a thrilling plot, "Ruthless Vengeance" is an excellent choice.
May 3, 2024
I absolutely love Mafia / Bratva romance / dark romance. When I saw this bundle on sale, I had to buy it. I’m glad I’ve finally been able to start it.
This is the first book In the series and focuses on The head of the Irish Mafia Owen is having issues with the Italian mafia stealing product and then he witnessed a bartender stealing from him. Owen fires the bartender and the new bartender Ruby is someone Owen cannot get off his mind. Ruby feels the same way about him. Owen and Ruby continue to grow closer. Owen has never had a woman affect him the way Ruby does. He knows he needs to stay away from her but, she doesn’t make that easy. When they find themselves alone in Owen’s office, neither one can take the attraction any longer.
Owen and Ruby seem like a happy couple with everything going great between them until Ruby goes missing. Owen knows exactly who took his woman and he intends ti get her back. Will he be able to rescue Ruby or will he be to late? Looking forward to book 2
This is the first book In the series and focuses on The head of the Irish Mafia Owen is having issues with the Italian mafia stealing product and then he witnessed a bartender stealing from him. Owen fires the bartender and the new bartender Ruby is someone Owen cannot get off his mind. Ruby feels the same way about him. Owen and Ruby continue to grow closer. Owen has never had a woman affect him the way Ruby does. He knows he needs to stay away from her but, she doesn’t make that easy. When they find themselves alone in Owen’s office, neither one can take the attraction any longer.
Owen and Ruby seem like a happy couple with everything going great between them until Ruby goes missing. Owen knows exactly who took his woman and he intends ti get her back. Will he be able to rescue Ruby or will he be to late? Looking forward to book 2
May 2, 2023
Ruby wants a fresh start after finding out her fiancé cheating on her. She's staying with a friend while she looks for a job so she can start finding a place of her own. Ruby applies for a job at the Walsh's Irish Eatery and goes to apply. Owen is the head of the Irish mafia and enjoys the time he spends at the eatery. Sparks fly when he meets Ruby, and he knows he wants her. Sparks fly between them and soon they give into temptation. Will Ruby run when she learns what he really does? Can they find a way to be together?
This is an amazing story that will captivate you from beginning to end. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that any book lover would enjoy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed.
This is an amazing story that will captivate you from beginning to end. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that any book lover would enjoy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed.
April 5, 2023
Owen and Rudy are total opposites of each other. Ruby comes in looking for a job but is getting much more. Owen has always been alone. It’s safer that way but he is always in moods and lonely. When he sees Ruby he is instantly attracted to her. He wants to know more about her and they start small talk. Ruby loves what she does but she is wanting more with Owen even though she knows he is her boss. They begin quick and once it starts I
There can’t be an end. Then danger comes for Ruby and Owen has to find her. He becomes angered by someone taking her and she is scared and locked in a room. Will Owen find her in time? Read this book and you won’t be sorry at all. Can’t wait for the next one.
There can’t be an end. Then danger comes for Ruby and Owen has to find her. He becomes angered by someone taking her and she is scared and locked in a room. Will Owen find her in time? Read this book and you won’t be sorry at all. Can’t wait for the next one.
April 12, 2023
I just loved that book !
Owen and Ruby are 2 strong characters that couldn't be more opposite: he's the Irish mafia leader and she's the new waitress/bartender at his restaurant.
When their eyes meet, a conneciton is made...
This story is very well written and has action, passion, danger and romance.
I got hooked right from the start and closed the book at the end; great plotline and characters !
Can't wait to read the next installment; it's the kind of do-not-miss-this-it !!!
Highly recommended :)
I received a copy of this book from the author and leaving an honest and voluntary review.
Owen and Ruby are 2 strong characters that couldn't be more opposite: he's the Irish mafia leader and she's the new waitress/bartender at his restaurant.
When their eyes meet, a conneciton is made...
This story is very well written and has action, passion, danger and romance.
I got hooked right from the start and closed the book at the end; great plotline and characters !
Can't wait to read the next installment; it's the kind of do-not-miss-this-it !!!
Highly recommended :)
I received a copy of this book from the author and leaving an honest and voluntary review.
May 4, 2023
Owen Walsh, is the head of the Irish Mafia. We don't get a lot of back story on who Owen is. We know he's the son of the previous Irish Mafia boss.
Ruby Cross is new in town and needs a job. She applied at a local restaurant to be a server/bartender. She has 8 previous years experience from her small town, so she wants to keep with what she knows. Little does she know that this place is a front for the Irish Mafia. Her boss, Owen, has his sights set on her.
Owen & Ruby do have a story, and we get to know them a little bit.
I did receive a free ARC Copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest review.
Ruby Cross is new in town and needs a job. She applied at a local restaurant to be a server/bartender. She has 8 previous years experience from her small town, so she wants to keep with what she knows. Little does she know that this place is a front for the Irish Mafia. Her boss, Owen, has his sights set on her.
Owen & Ruby do have a story, and we get to know them a little bit.
I did receive a free ARC Copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest review.
April 2, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. The slow build of the relationship and the contract of his good and bad sides was excellent.
This was about Ruby who goes for a job at the restaurant owned by Irish Mafia boss Owen.
I loved the danger factor in this book. It was always there but in different degrees and especially if Ruby was around.
Intense, grumpy Owen was a treat to read about and I loved him with brought sensitive Ruby.
Well done and a great read, I highly recommend this book!!
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
This was about Ruby who goes for a job at the restaurant owned by Irish Mafia boss Owen.
I loved the danger factor in this book. It was always there but in different degrees and especially if Ruby was around.
Intense, grumpy Owen was a treat to read about and I loved him with brought sensitive Ruby.
Well done and a great read, I highly recommend this book!!
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
April 9, 2023
Oh my word!! Loved reading, Ruthless Vengeance by Hope Stone because it was a steamy and very suspenseful story about Owen and Ruby. There was so much steam and a bunch of drama with this story. I was waiting with baited breath to see what would happen next. These two characters were on fire with this story and their love for each other would endure anything that came their way. I received an ARC of this story and I am voluntarily choosing to leave this review. Fantastic and I would highly recommend reading!!
August 24, 2024
This is a great love story. You have the Irish Mafia taking on the Italian Mafia for control of the city. When Owen finds out that the Italians are stealing his shipments directly from the cartel that he deals with, he informs them so they can take them out. Owen and Ruby make a great couple, and they fall in love in a short period of time. But when she is taken from him, he doesn't stop until he gets her back and takes it out on her kidnappers. Owne is quite possessive when it comes to his woman. Great book to read if you are interested in Mafia romance.
April 12, 2023
Great Start To New Series
This is a new genre from this author for me and she did as she always has by bringing me a book I couldn’t put down because the steam and drama was intense. Owen and Ruby are truly opposites but still connect when Ruby starts working for the Irish Mafia boss, Owen. Owen will stop at nothing to protect Ruby…and that’s where the drama and the suspense ensues. I can’t wait to see what is next in this series.
This is a new genre from this author for me and she did as she always has by bringing me a book I couldn’t put down because the steam and drama was intense. Owen and Ruby are truly opposites but still connect when Ruby starts working for the Irish Mafia boss, Owen. Owen will stop at nothing to protect Ruby…and that’s where the drama and the suspense ensues. I can’t wait to see what is next in this series.
April 23, 2024
I was enjoying the storyline but felt disappointed in the end? Ruby is ready to make a fresh start in Misso City, leaving behind a cheating ex-fiancée. Ruby finds work waitressing and bartending, falling for the Irish Mafia Boss unbeknownst to her? The ending was rushed? Needed a bit more, felt like it was missing something?
April 9, 2023
This was a really book. It’s the first mafia type that i have read by this author, and she did a great job. There was strong chemistry and suspense, along with friendship and family. This is a definite must-read.
April 14, 2023
I Really enjoy Owen’s and Ruby’s story. Their chemistry was awesome. Besides the steamy romance, there was action, drama, suspense, passion and danger. I enjoyed it from beginning to end. *this was a complimentary copy and this is my honest review*
April 19, 2023
This is Ruby and Owen’s story. I enjoyed this steamy romance with action, danger, suspense and sizzling chemistry. The secrets and unexpected twists kept me reading. I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2023
it was cute
I have read many mafia books, and this one a little cute, really you can call it a short story. I wanted to check out the new author. The emotion in the book was really blasia.
I have read many mafia books, and this one a little cute, really you can call it a short story. I wanted to check out the new author. The emotion in the book was really blasia.
July 7, 2023
Owen and Ruby
A definite page turner that kept me on the edge of my seat. Owen is a hard and surly man but with Ruby he turns into a different man. I enjoyed going on this thrilling journey with them.
A definite page turner that kept me on the edge of my seat. Owen is a hard and surly man but with Ruby he turns into a different man. I enjoyed going on this thrilling journey with them.
December 28, 2024
Owen's life is suspenseful and dangerous. Ruby and he fall for each other, and she pretty readily accepts Owen's dark side because he shows her another side of himself even Owen wasn't sure existed. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
April 9, 2023
Ruby and Owen sizzle with chemistry from the get go! the steamy scenes, drama, desires action and more keep you on your toes with this couple! i cant wait for more!
April 29, 2023
Kind of hard to rate this, it was like reading half a book.
April 30, 2023
Not Long Enough
Found it is a great story line but found it was rushed. Little unsure how Ruby would just be ok finding out who Owen is.
Found it is a great story line but found it was rushed. Little unsure how Ruby would just be ok finding out who Owen is.
May 14, 2023
Exciting book
Great story. Enjoyed this book a lot. No slow draggy parts. Lots of excitement. I can hardly wait for next book.
Great story. Enjoyed this book a lot. No slow draggy parts. Lots of excitement. I can hardly wait for next book.
June 7, 2023
Awesome book. Can’t wait to read the next one
November 24, 2023
short
quick
sweet
cleanser
quick
sweet
cleanser
March 6, 2024
This book is a great read that keeps you intruiged! Can’t wait to read the next!
August 6, 2024
Exciting story, good characters and good Irish Mob and Mafia book. First book in the series that definitely wants me to read the remaining books.
April 5, 2025
This plot is really good, however I had a hard time getting past the typing errors and grammar mistakes. The story moves really fast, almost too fast. Wanted more depth to the story and plot line.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews