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Broken Bastard: A secret pregnancy mafia romance
He’s a bastard beyond redemption.
She’s a sweet temptress offering salvation.
Can their love save them both?
Vivi
I’ve been invisible my whole life. Worshipping Luca Sforza since childhood, I never dreamed he’d see me as anything more than an annoying little shadow. When I found him nursing his shattered dreams at the bottom of a bottle, I only intended to comfort him. Instead, I seduced him.
Now, his brother plans to use that against me, until Luca saves me. He doesn’t remember our night together, but I do. I promised myself I’d only claim one night, but he offers so much more in return for my trust. He’s stolen my heart, but if I confess my betrayal, will he still want me?
Luca
Broken. Bastard.
The illegitimate son of a Cosa Nostra Don. They’ve called me worse, but I’m beyond caring what the world thinks of my existence. My life is ruled by my craving for whiskey – the only mistress I care for these days. That is, until I meet Viviana again and the desire to protect her, to claim her, is stronger than my thirst.
But my brother’s depravity has threatened her—the only woman who’s ever made me want to choose a different path. Viviana Ajello is my temptation and salvation wrapped in luscious curves and an innocent smile.
She’s mine. So is my heritage.
It’s time I claim them.
She’s a sweet temptress offering salvation.
Can their love save them both?
Vivi
I’ve been invisible my whole life. Worshipping Luca Sforza since childhood, I never dreamed he’d see me as anything more than an annoying little shadow. When I found him nursing his shattered dreams at the bottom of a bottle, I only intended to comfort him. Instead, I seduced him.
Now, his brother plans to use that against me, until Luca saves me. He doesn’t remember our night together, but I do. I promised myself I’d only claim one night, but he offers so much more in return for my trust. He’s stolen my heart, but if I confess my betrayal, will he still want me?
Luca
Broken. Bastard.
The illegitimate son of a Cosa Nostra Don. They’ve called me worse, but I’m beyond caring what the world thinks of my existence. My life is ruled by my craving for whiskey – the only mistress I care for these days. That is, until I meet Viviana again and the desire to protect her, to claim her, is stronger than my thirst.
But my brother’s depravity has threatened her—the only woman who’s ever made me want to choose a different path. Viviana Ajello is my temptation and salvation wrapped in luscious curves and an innocent smile.
She’s mine. So is my heritage.
It’s time I claim them.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2023
6 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Holly
8 books41 followersAmanda Holly is a cheese, chocolate and coffee addict who can usually be found in her home office – either writing, reading or burrowing down several rabbit holes on the internet under the guise of doing research!
Driven by her insatiable curiosity Amanda loves to delve into new worlds and create characters who are forced to claw their way out of terrible situations. A hopeless romantic at heart, you will always find her books leave you with a sense of happy-ever-after.
Amanda writes romantic suspense, mafia romance and romantic thrillers. There’s one thing you can be sure of in all her books – there’s plenty of action on the page and it’s sizzling hot between the sheets.
Amanda lives in South Africa with her ever patient husband, who’s grateful her writing takes up enough of her time to keep her away from the Home Improvement channel.
Driven by her insatiable curiosity Amanda loves to delve into new worlds and create characters who are forced to claw their way out of terrible situations. A hopeless romantic at heart, you will always find her books leave you with a sense of happy-ever-after.
Amanda writes romantic suspense, mafia romance and romantic thrillers. There’s one thing you can be sure of in all her books – there’s plenty of action on the page and it’s sizzling hot between the sheets.
Amanda lives in South Africa with her ever patient husband, who’s grateful her writing takes up enough of her time to keep her away from the Home Improvement channel.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 15, 2025
UHM EXCUSE ME?!?!??!
where was this South African author hiding all these years?!??!
I feel like I've missed out on the hype and all the emotions when it was released, but its fine now... I'll bring it back 😭
Gosh I absolutely LOVED this book.
The plot was insanely good. A lot of the times with mafia romances there seems to be a struggle with balancing the mafia part and the romance part of the plot... but I was absolutely wowed with how balanced it came across to me when reading this book!
I need me a Luca in my life honestly... so like can I email you to find him or ???
We'll get back to that lol 😭🤣
The characters were beautifully written and executed exquisitely!
10/10 would absolutely recommend 🫶🏼
where was this South African author hiding all these years?!??!
I feel like I've missed out on the hype and all the emotions when it was released, but its fine now... I'll bring it back 😭
Gosh I absolutely LOVED this book.
The plot was insanely good. A lot of the times with mafia romances there seems to be a struggle with balancing the mafia part and the romance part of the plot... but I was absolutely wowed with how balanced it came across to me when reading this book!
I need me a Luca in my life honestly... so like can I email you to find him or ???
We'll get back to that lol 😭🤣
The characters were beautifully written and executed exquisitely!
10/10 would absolutely recommend 🫶🏼
December 24, 2025
I went into Broken Bastard thinking I was prepared for a gritty, wounded‑hero romance… and then Amanda Holly absolutely wrecked me in the best way. This book is raw, emotional, and unexpectedly tender.
From the moment you meet Luca, you can feel his brokenness, not in a melodramatic way, but in that quiet, lived‑in ache that comes from surviving things no one should have to endure. He’s rough edges and bad decisions and a lifetime of believing he’s unworthy of anything soft. And then she walks in. Vivi is exactly the kind of FMC I fall for: compassionate without being naive, stubborn enough to match him, and brave enough to love someone who doesn’t know how to accept it. She’s been put through hell and comes out stronger for it, with Luca by her side.
Luca is exactly the kind of antihero who ruins you for anyone else. Cold. Controlled. Brutal when he needs to be. A man shaped by violence and loyalty, convinced he’s too far gone to ever want something soft. And then there’s Vivi, the girl who was never supposed to cross his path again, let alone get under his skin. She’s sunshine, stubborn enough to stand her ground even when she’s shaking, and brave enough to look him in the eye and see the man underneath.
Their dynamic is pure tension. Every scene between them feels like a standoff between desire and danger circling each other, neither willing to back down. Luca fights the pull with everything he has, but Vivi keeps peeling back his armor one breath at a time. And when he finally breaks, it’s explosive, messy, possessive in that dark, mafia‑coded way that makes your heart race.
What I loved most is how Amanda Holly balances brutality with vulnerability. The violence is real. The stakes are high. A perfect combination of action and romance. It’s dark, emotional, violent, and unexpectedly tender, this book delivers exactly what a mafia romance should: a broken man who learns to love, an FMC who refuses to break, and a story that leaves you breathless.
From the moment you meet Luca, you can feel his brokenness, not in a melodramatic way, but in that quiet, lived‑in ache that comes from surviving things no one should have to endure. He’s rough edges and bad decisions and a lifetime of believing he’s unworthy of anything soft. And then she walks in. Vivi is exactly the kind of FMC I fall for: compassionate without being naive, stubborn enough to match him, and brave enough to love someone who doesn’t know how to accept it. She’s been put through hell and comes out stronger for it, with Luca by her side.
Luca is exactly the kind of antihero who ruins you for anyone else. Cold. Controlled. Brutal when he needs to be. A man shaped by violence and loyalty, convinced he’s too far gone to ever want something soft. And then there’s Vivi, the girl who was never supposed to cross his path again, let alone get under his skin. She’s sunshine, stubborn enough to stand her ground even when she’s shaking, and brave enough to look him in the eye and see the man underneath.
Their dynamic is pure tension. Every scene between them feels like a standoff between desire and danger circling each other, neither willing to back down. Luca fights the pull with everything he has, but Vivi keeps peeling back his armor one breath at a time. And when he finally breaks, it’s explosive, messy, possessive in that dark, mafia‑coded way that makes your heart race.
What I loved most is how Amanda Holly balances brutality with vulnerability. The violence is real. The stakes are high. A perfect combination of action and romance. It’s dark, emotional, violent, and unexpectedly tender, this book delivers exactly what a mafia romance should: a broken man who learns to love, an FMC who refuses to break, and a story that leaves you breathless.
January 12, 2026
I am IN LOVE with Luca!
Being someone who isn't stick thin like a normal mob wife, but seeing how he treats Vivi with all her flaws is something to be admired.
I also love how their relationship grew from Vivi being his little shadow when she was younger, to now being an amazingly strong woman bringing Luca to his knees.
Being someone who isn't stick thin like a normal mob wife, but seeing how he treats Vivi with all her flaws is something to be admired.
I also love how their relationship grew from Vivi being his little shadow when she was younger, to now being an amazingly strong woman bringing Luca to his knees.
January 14, 2026
I loved this book. Luca and Vivi are the best. Their story is easy to fall in love with and has by our on the edge of your seat while the story unfolds. Definitely diving into books 2 asap.
December 18, 2025
A quick, great read to satisfy my inner mafia princess 😌
We meet Luca and Vivianna, who’s known each other for years, and Vivianna has always had a crush on Luca, and Luca hasn’t seen Vivi as more than a little sister. One night, and some threats, changes everything.
This is a fast paced mafia romance that had me hooked from the first page, and I devoured it in one day. It has the smut, it has the ”touch her and d*e”, it has the curvy, virgin FMC and the protective, older MMC. I highly recommend this book to satisfy your inner mafia princess! And I can’t wait to read the next book in the series to get Lorenzo’s story 😍
*I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
December 21, 2025
Luca and Vivi’s story was beautiful and heart wrenching. They fought through so much to be together. Vivi is one of the stronger FMC’s I have ever read about, after all she went through she came out even stronger. I loved every second of their story (except literally any part Emilio was mentioned in…) and I flew through it!!
I can’t wait to dive into book 2!
I can’t wait to dive into book 2!
November 7, 2023
A lustful, danger lurking, fast paced read!
Two broken people who desire what everyone wants, acceptance, love with no boundaries, and undeniable sexual attraction is what Broken Bastard promises and over delivers on. Highly recommend and you’re welcome.
Two broken people who desire what everyone wants, acceptance, love with no boundaries, and undeniable sexual attraction is what Broken Bastard promises and over delivers on. Highly recommend and you’re welcome.
November 13, 2023
You fall in love with Luca & Vivi! Jam packed with action. Easy read, and a great story line!
November 21, 2023
Great read
This was a very good read and I really enjoyed it I think Luca an Vivi is my new favourite couple. Hope there is more books of this Mafia Family.
This was a very good read and I really enjoyed it I think Luca an Vivi is my new favourite couple. Hope there is more books of this Mafia Family.
November 26, 2023
I loved reading Luca & Vivi’s story.
So proud to have a signed copy of this book.
Can’t wait to read more books by Amanda Holly
So proud to have a signed copy of this book.
Can’t wait to read more books by Amanda Holly
April 15, 2024
Broken Bastard by Amanda Holly
Throughout his life as the illegitimate son, he understands his place and still holds a deep respect for his father, the Don of the Cosa Nostra. Yet the Don’s recent health struggles have prompted Luca to wonder about the succession within the organization. Nonetheless, he dutifully carries out his father's commands. His skill is unquestionable, characterized by his relentless efficiency. However, beneath his façade lies a profound repulsion towards his half-brother, Emilio. The Dons' huge announcement serves as a strategic move to unite two families and to advise who will take over from him. In Luca’s haste to drown his anger, he bumps into Vivi, the curvaceous young woman who has always had a special place in his heart. But he knows she is off limits. The recent announcement only fuels his anger, leaving him in a sour mood, craving nothing more than the solace found at the bottom of a whisky bottle. Vivi follows the man that she has always secretly had a crush on, and once she finds him almost passed out, she does the unthinkable, knowing that he will never remember what she has given him. The following morning, it seems the organization is under attack, and Luca has a huge problem in trying to solve the mystery. When Emilio does the unthinkable, Luca can't help but step in. Has he just crossed a line? Will he think with his heart or with his head? Vivi finds herself as the pawn and truly understands the viciousness of the mafia. Can this sweet woman survive? And will Luca protect her when he finds out just how she deceived him? Ms. Holly has crafted a well-thought-out plot that captivates you with perfect pacing. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters, but now my interest is piqued – bring on Lorenzo!
Throughout his life as the illegitimate son, he understands his place and still holds a deep respect for his father, the Don of the Cosa Nostra. Yet the Don’s recent health struggles have prompted Luca to wonder about the succession within the organization. Nonetheless, he dutifully carries out his father's commands. His skill is unquestionable, characterized by his relentless efficiency. However, beneath his façade lies a profound repulsion towards his half-brother, Emilio. The Dons' huge announcement serves as a strategic move to unite two families and to advise who will take over from him. In Luca’s haste to drown his anger, he bumps into Vivi, the curvaceous young woman who has always had a special place in his heart. But he knows she is off limits. The recent announcement only fuels his anger, leaving him in a sour mood, craving nothing more than the solace found at the bottom of a whisky bottle. Vivi follows the man that she has always secretly had a crush on, and once she finds him almost passed out, she does the unthinkable, knowing that he will never remember what she has given him. The following morning, it seems the organization is under attack, and Luca has a huge problem in trying to solve the mystery. When Emilio does the unthinkable, Luca can't help but step in. Has he just crossed a line? Will he think with his heart or with his head? Vivi finds herself as the pawn and truly understands the viciousness of the mafia. Can this sweet woman survive? And will Luca protect her when he finds out just how she deceived him? Ms. Holly has crafted a well-thought-out plot that captivates you with perfect pacing. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters, but now my interest is piqued – bring on Lorenzo!
December 28, 2025
Broken Bastard by Amanda Holly was my first time reading this author, and it definitely won’t be my last. The writing style flows easily, and I stayed engaged from start to finish. It was a quick, easy read that I flew through.
I really liked both main characters, Vivianna and Luca. They’re each broken in their own way, which made them feel very real. Vivianna has spent her entire life being told she’s not thin enough, not pretty enough, and not special enough—especially when compared to her “perfect” sister. Luca, on the other hand, carries the weight of being illegitimate and constantly feeling like he’s never good enough.
Their chemistry was strong, and I loved that they’ve known each other since childhood. Luca’s protective instincts toward Vivianna gave off major touch her and die vibes, which I’m always here for.
The plot itself is simple and not overly taxing, but it works well for the story being told. Overall, this was a solid, enjoyable read and a great introduction to Amanda Holly’s writing.
I really liked both main characters, Vivianna and Luca. They’re each broken in their own way, which made them feel very real. Vivianna has spent her entire life being told she’s not thin enough, not pretty enough, and not special enough—especially when compared to her “perfect” sister. Luca, on the other hand, carries the weight of being illegitimate and constantly feeling like he’s never good enough.
Their chemistry was strong, and I loved that they’ve known each other since childhood. Luca’s protective instincts toward Vivianna gave off major touch her and die vibes, which I’m always here for.
The plot itself is simple and not overly taxing, but it works well for the story being told. Overall, this was a solid, enjoyable read and a great introduction to Amanda Holly’s writing.
January 13, 2026
Luca is the bastard son to a mafia Don. His younger, legitimate half brother, Emelio, is heir to the empire. Emilio is set to marry Giuliana, a woman whose family has connections that will help with their shipments.
When Giuliana suddenly disappears, Emilio wants to make her younger sister, Viviana. On her wedding day, Viviana is assaulted by Emilio and Luca saves her. Luca ends up marrying Viviana to protect her from Emilio.
Both Luca and Viviana have secrets though. Will they be able to overcome them?
I enjoyed this book in the Broken Mafia Series. Vivi is so innocent even though she also grew up in a crime family. Luca is so protective of her. I love their relationship. The world building was incredible
I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
When Giuliana suddenly disappears, Emilio wants to make her younger sister, Viviana. On her wedding day, Viviana is assaulted by Emilio and Luca saves her. Luca ends up marrying Viviana to protect her from Emilio.
Both Luca and Viviana have secrets though. Will they be able to overcome them?
I enjoyed this book in the Broken Mafia Series. Vivi is so innocent even though she also grew up in a crime family. Luca is so protective of her. I love their relationship. The world building was incredible
I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
January 3, 2026
Broken Bastard by Amanda Holly
MMC: Luca
FMC: Vivi
We meet Luca and Vivianna. They’ve known each other for years. Vivianna has always had a crush on Luca but Luca hasn’t seen Vivi as more than a little sister. One night changes everything. They are both broken in their own ways.
MMC: Luca
FMC: Vivi
We meet Luca and Vivianna. They’ve known each other for years. Vivianna has always had a crush on Luca but Luca hasn’t seen Vivi as more than a little sister. One night changes everything. They are both broken in their own ways.
December 23, 2025
Thanks for giving me this opportunity to read this book
Fast paced and a good book. Loved it finished it in less than a day
Fast paced and a good book. Loved it finished it in less than a day
December 26, 2025
Luca and Vivi’s story is a fast paced, good mafia read. It’s so emotional. They have great chemistry. The plot is engaging and kept me flipping pages. A great read.
January 4, 2026
This is definitely a comfort read for me... Mafia Dark Romance done, right!
December 26, 2025
The book wasn't for me. I didn't get attached to any of the characters and it felt like everything went very quickly.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews