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The Mafia Academy #1
Vow of Revenge
The first installment of The Mafia Academy Series—a dark romance set at a boarding school for the sons and daughters of the most powerful mafia lords.
Mirabella La Rosa
When my father arranged for me to marry the heir to the Costa crime family, I swore I’d do anything to escape that fate. I have more to offer than being some man’s arm candy and producing heirs. Marcello Costa might be my fiancé, but he’ll never be my husband.
So when he and his father are killed in a car bombing, I consider myself lucky. No longer will I have to go from being a mafia princess to becoming a mafia wife, I can now attend the Sicuro Academy—a private college created for mafia children like me.
But all my plans come to a screeching halt when Marcello shows up on campus alive and well, seeking revenge on those that crossed him.
Marcello Costa
The look of shock on my fiancée’s face when I walked into the classroom pleases me more than it should. Mirabella made it clear she didn’t want to marry me, but at the moment I have a bigger issue on my hands—revenge on whoever killed my father. Once I mete out my own particular brand of justice, I’ll remove Mirabella from campus and make her my wife.
And no amount of pleading on her part will change my mind.
Mirabella La Rosa
When my father arranged for me to marry the heir to the Costa crime family, I swore I’d do anything to escape that fate. I have more to offer than being some man’s arm candy and producing heirs. Marcello Costa might be my fiancé, but he’ll never be my husband.
So when he and his father are killed in a car bombing, I consider myself lucky. No longer will I have to go from being a mafia princess to becoming a mafia wife, I can now attend the Sicuro Academy—a private college created for mafia children like me.
But all my plans come to a screeching halt when Marcello shows up on campus alive and well, seeking revenge on those that crossed him.
Marcello Costa
The look of shock on my fiancée’s face when I walked into the classroom pleases me more than it should. Mirabella made it clear she didn’t want to marry me, but at the moment I have a bigger issue on my hands—revenge on whoever killed my father. Once I mete out my own particular brand of justice, I’ll remove Mirabella from campus and make her my wife.
And no amount of pleading on her part will change my mind.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 18, 2023
728 people are currently reading
25917 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 776 reviews
May 3, 2023
I haven't read Piper Rayne for years. Not because I don't enjoy their writing, because I definitely do. They were one of my earliest discoveries when I first started out reading the romance genre. Eventually, I became more attracted to subgenres they didn't write in like mafia, dark, fantasy, etc., so I just naturally gravitated away from their books for those reasons. Despite that, I've never forgotten how much I enjoyed their stories in those early days of discovering my favorite genre, so when I saw that they'd started writing mafia romance, I jumped in with both feet immediately!
Best. Decision. Ever.
Vow of Revenge was the most fun I've had reading a mafia romance in a hot minute. It's set in a "mafia academy", and while that may be wildly unrealistic, it's one of my favorite things to read about. I'm a huge mafia and new adult romance fan. This series is like two of my favorite worlds colliding in the most perfect way.
I devoured Marcelo and Mirabella's story! I literally couldn't get enough. When I reached the end, I sincerely felt sad that it was over. I could read about them just doing random shit forever. I adore them and their relationship dynamic.
Mirabella is a mafia princess expected to marry her betrothed, pop out a few of his kids, keep his house, spend his money, cook his food, and ride his cock when he comes home at night, and while she might be okay with being a wife and mother one day, Mirabella wants more than anything to be her husband's equal. She has no interest in being a housewife or serving as subservient arm candy to her husband. Mirabella wants a hands on role in the mafia. She's highly skilled in her own right and is determined to get what she wants no matter what others may have planned for her.
Marcelo is the new head of his family after his father was killed in an explosion that nearly ended his own life as well. He's at the academy to try to find the scum that attempted to terminate his family line. Mirabella isn't exactly thrilled to see him alive and well, but she's gorgeous and promised to him, and he has every intention of making her his wife...whether she likes it or not.
Mirabella and Marcelo are fire together! If you know me, you know I'm an angst whore at my core. I live for that shit, but the way Mirabella and Marcelo couldn't fight their attraction from pretty much day one was absolutely everything. They both melted and bent for each other the more they got to know one another, and it was beautiful to witness.
Vow of Revenge isn't as dark or gritty as a lot of the mafia romance I read, but I didn't care one bit. It's such a good fucking time that I didn't miss any of the blood, trauma, and torture that usually does it for me, and I don't think you will either. Mirabella and Marcelo's story is perfection. I can't wait for more people to experience it!
I have every intention of reading as many books as the authors decide to release in this series. Their writing style is incredible, and they already have me invested in the character's stories to come. I need Antonio and Sofia's book yesterday! Not to mention, Dante, Gabriele, and whoever they decide to pair them up with. I'm invested, hooked, ready, and waiting for the next installment.
New adult and mafia romance fans, this one's for you!
Best. Decision. Ever.
Vow of Revenge was the most fun I've had reading a mafia romance in a hot minute. It's set in a "mafia academy", and while that may be wildly unrealistic, it's one of my favorite things to read about. I'm a huge mafia and new adult romance fan. This series is like two of my favorite worlds colliding in the most perfect way.
I devoured Marcelo and Mirabella's story! I literally couldn't get enough. When I reached the end, I sincerely felt sad that it was over. I could read about them just doing random shit forever. I adore them and their relationship dynamic.
Mirabella is a mafia princess expected to marry her betrothed, pop out a few of his kids, keep his house, spend his money, cook his food, and ride his cock when he comes home at night, and while she might be okay with being a wife and mother one day, Mirabella wants more than anything to be her husband's equal. She has no interest in being a housewife or serving as subservient arm candy to her husband. Mirabella wants a hands on role in the mafia. She's highly skilled in her own right and is determined to get what she wants no matter what others may have planned for her.
Marcelo is the new head of his family after his father was killed in an explosion that nearly ended his own life as well. He's at the academy to try to find the scum that attempted to terminate his family line. Mirabella isn't exactly thrilled to see him alive and well, but she's gorgeous and promised to him, and he has every intention of making her his wife...whether she likes it or not.
Mirabella and Marcelo are fire together! If you know me, you know I'm an angst whore at my core. I live for that shit, but the way Mirabella and Marcelo couldn't fight their attraction from pretty much day one was absolutely everything. They both melted and bent for each other the more they got to know one another, and it was beautiful to witness.
Vow of Revenge isn't as dark or gritty as a lot of the mafia romance I read, but I didn't care one bit. It's such a good fucking time that I didn't miss any of the blood, trauma, and torture that usually does it for me, and I don't think you will either. Mirabella and Marcelo's story is perfection. I can't wait for more people to experience it!
I have every intention of reading as many books as the authors decide to release in this series. Their writing style is incredible, and they already have me invested in the character's stories to come. I need Antonio and Sofia's book yesterday! Not to mention, Dante, Gabriele, and whoever they decide to pair them up with. I'm invested, hooked, ready, and waiting for the next installment.
New adult and mafia romance fans, this one's for you!
January 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
''All your silly expectations''
Safety warnings
- No cheating
- Slight OW drama
- OM drama
- Arranged marriage
- Violence
- Betrayal
- Kidnapping
- Loss of loved one
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
I didn't know what to expect going into this book, I have never read a book by P.Rayne before and as mafia tends to be one of my favorite tropes I wanted to get this off my TBR as it had been there for quite some time.
We meet Mirabella who is finally free from her arranged engagement to a rivals son, he died alongside his father in a car explosion and Mirabella never have had any feelings or emotions towards him sees this as a great sign and now she is free to live her life.....
BUT Marcello is NOT dead and very much alive. He stayed away to find out who killed his father and things are dangerous for him, so he attends the Academy where his still-very-much-engaged fiancée also attends along with other mafia heirs and his friends.
The shock of a lifetime for her when she sees him alive.
She must break up with her ''boyfriend'' as they were more messing around, but he is devastated about the end of their relationship while she is trying to come to terms with the idea that she will be someone’s wife.
Marcello and Mirabella take their time getting together but once they do it is explosive, and she wonders why she never let herself believe any good about him.
I knew from the beginning who was the culprit that killed his dad - his uncle. This part was not at all shocking to me.
I enjoyed this story and despite the bits and pieces of things I saw coming, I still liked it a lot.
''All your silly expectations''
Safety warnings
- No cheating
- Slight OW drama
- OM drama
- Arranged marriage
- Violence
- Betrayal
- Kidnapping
- Loss of loved one
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
I didn't know what to expect going into this book, I have never read a book by P.Rayne before and as mafia tends to be one of my favorite tropes I wanted to get this off my TBR as it had been there for quite some time.
We meet Mirabella who is finally free from her arranged engagement to a rivals son, he died alongside his father in a car explosion and Mirabella never have had any feelings or emotions towards him sees this as a great sign and now she is free to live her life.....
BUT Marcello is NOT dead and very much alive. He stayed away to find out who killed his father and things are dangerous for him, so he attends the Academy where his still-very-much-engaged fiancée also attends along with other mafia heirs and his friends.
The shock of a lifetime for her when she sees him alive.
She must break up with her ''boyfriend'' as they were more messing around, but he is devastated about the end of their relationship while she is trying to come to terms with the idea that she will be someone’s wife.
Marcello and Mirabella take their time getting together but once they do it is explosive, and she wonders why she never let herself believe any good about him.
I knew from the beginning who was the culprit that killed his dad - his uncle. This part was not at all shocking to me.
I enjoyed this story and despite the bits and pieces of things I saw coming, I still liked it a lot.
Read
October 1, 2024This was a fun one sitting read
April 29, 2023
Ratings - 3.80 /5
➜ the hero - Marcello is the head of his family after the death of his father. He was supposed to be dead with his father but he somehow saved himself. He and Mirabella are supposed to marry and bring their two families together. He’s a strong character, yet there are many layers to him that come out throughout the course of this story.
➜ the heroine - Mirabella is a mafia princess but intelligent, smart and computer genius, and can most definitely protect herself and in her mind, she’s just as capable as being the head of her family. She not your typical meek, virgin princess saving herself for her arranged husband and I fucking loved that about her. She doesn’t want to be the typical mafia wife, I loved that she wasn’t afraid to stand up for herself.
➜ overall review - Marcelo and Mirabella may love to hate each other, but this couple were smoking hot together. Mirabella knew her worth and never bowed down to Marcello. I loved Mirabella more than Marcello over here, she stole the show. The plot was average, and kindoff predictable but I enjoyed it. The steam was amazing and sizzling hot.
‼️SAFETY FOR READERS‼️
1. Hero is not virgin, Heroine is also not a virgin
2. Hero was not a manwhore either
3. There is no OW drama (thank god!)
4. There is OM drama, heroine's ex causes drama and wants her back ( I loved Marcello getting jealous 😌😼)
➜ the hero - Marcello is the head of his family after the death of his father. He was supposed to be dead with his father but he somehow saved himself. He and Mirabella are supposed to marry and bring their two families together. He’s a strong character, yet there are many layers to him that come out throughout the course of this story.
➜ the heroine - Mirabella is a mafia princess but intelligent, smart and computer genius, and can most definitely protect herself and in her mind, she’s just as capable as being the head of her family. She not your typical meek, virgin princess saving herself for her arranged husband and I fucking loved that about her. She doesn’t want to be the typical mafia wife, I loved that she wasn’t afraid to stand up for herself.
➜ overall review - Marcelo and Mirabella may love to hate each other, but this couple were smoking hot together. Mirabella knew her worth and never bowed down to Marcello. I loved Mirabella more than Marcello over here, she stole the show. The plot was average, and kindoff predictable but I enjoyed it. The steam was amazing and sizzling hot.
‼️SAFETY FOR READERS‼️
1. Hero is not virgin, Heroine is also not a virgin
2. Hero was not a manwhore either
3. There is no OW drama (thank god!)
4. There is OM drama, heroine's ex causes drama and wants her back ( I loved Marcello getting jealous 😌😼)
August 15, 2025
Yani… Eğlendim ve çok çabuk akıp gitti ama bu kitap darkromance değildi. Hatta mafya hissiyatı da vermedi.
Sadece Marcelo ve Mira çiftinin birbirlerine aşık olmasını okumak keyifliydi. Özellikle Miranın mafya hiyerarşisine karşı çıkarak bir şeyler öğrenme çabası hoştu ve sonunda Marcelo da ona karşı çıkmadığında mutlu olduğum detaylar yaşandı.
Seriye devam edeceğimi sanmıyorum. Bence karakterler istediğim o iddialı havaya sahip değildi.
Sadece Marcelo ve Mira çiftinin birbirlerine aşık olmasını okumak keyifliydi. Özellikle Miranın mafya hiyerarşisine karşı çıkarak bir şeyler öğrenme çabası hoştu ve sonunda Marcelo da ona karşı çıkmadığında mutlu olduğum detaylar yaşandı.
Seriye devam edeceğimi sanmıyorum. Bence karakterler istediğim o iddialı havaya sahip değildi.
June 14, 2023
I’m sorry Jess, but I quickly realized that this book isn’t for me. I loved the reviews I found for this book and grabbed it up real quick, but nah. It ain’t for me. The characters are too young, too entitled, too too too too much.
August 15, 2025
3.25/5⭐️
Yorumu geç yazıyorum maalesef. Umarım unutmamışımdır.
Mafya akademi tarzı bir seri. Beklentisiz, çerez bir okuma diyebilirim. Yani seriden çok büyük şeyler beklemeyin.
Mira ve Marcelo çiftimiz. Aileleri uygun gördüğü için nişanlandılar. Ama kızımız asla evlenmek istemiyor, evde oturmak istemiyor.
Mafya dünyasına çok aykırı beğendiğim bir kadın karakter oldu. Herkese baş kaldırdı, susmadı. Aşık olunca tabi yelkenler suya indi. Ama paspas bir fmc değildi.
Marcelo ise Mira’dan etkileniyor ama kabul edemiyor. Ona göre bu dünya da eşine aşık olmak, iyi davranmak zayıflık göstergesi. Zamanla birbirlerine güveniyorlar tabi. Sonlarda olan olaylarda adam biraz daha mantıklı hareket edebilirdi bence.
Olaylar çok tahmin edileblirdi. Ama akademi olaylarını severim. Daha güzel yazılmasını isterdim.
Sonda tam bir epilog yok. Olaylar devam ediyor. Daha uzun epilogların hastasıyım maalesef…
Bunda da olsun isterdim.
Seriye devam eder miyim emin değilim. Daha sonra 3 ve 4.kitabı okurum belki. Yazarın kalemi bence akıcıydı.
Mafya sevenler kitabı beğenir bence. Ama beklentisiz ve çerezlik okuyun…
Yorumu geç yazıyorum maalesef. Umarım unutmamışımdır.
Mafya akademi tarzı bir seri. Beklentisiz, çerez bir okuma diyebilirim. Yani seriden çok büyük şeyler beklemeyin.
Mira ve Marcelo çiftimiz. Aileleri uygun gördüğü için nişanlandılar. Ama kızımız asla evlenmek istemiyor, evde oturmak istemiyor.
Mafya dünyasına çok aykırı beğendiğim bir kadın karakter oldu. Herkese baş kaldırdı, susmadı. Aşık olunca tabi yelkenler suya indi. Ama paspas bir fmc değildi.
Marcelo ise Mira’dan etkileniyor ama kabul edemiyor. Ona göre bu dünya da eşine aşık olmak, iyi davranmak zayıflık göstergesi. Zamanla birbirlerine güveniyorlar tabi. Sonlarda olan olaylarda adam biraz daha mantıklı hareket edebilirdi bence.
Olaylar çok tahmin edileblirdi. Ama akademi olaylarını severim. Daha güzel yazılmasını isterdim.
Sonda tam bir epilog yok. Olaylar devam ediyor. Daha uzun epilogların hastasıyım maalesef…
Bunda da olsun isterdim.
Seriye devam eder miyim emin değilim. Daha sonra 3 ve 4.kitabı okurum belki. Yazarın kalemi bence akıcıydı.
Mafya sevenler kitabı beğenir bence. Ama beklentisiz ve çerezlik okuyun…
April 11, 2024
Mafia Romance
Arranged Marriage
Enemies to Lovers
Ellos tienen un matrimonio arreglado, pero el sufre un atentando y piensan que murió junto con su papá que es el jefe de una de las familias pero OH SURPRISE!! Él prometido no murió y matrimonio sigue en pie.
Estuvo medio meh y ella caía mal.
Arranged Marriage
Enemies to Lovers
Ellos tienen un matrimonio arreglado, pero el sufre un atentando y piensan que murió junto con su papá que es el jefe de una de las familias pero OH SURPRISE!! Él prometido no murió y matrimonio sigue en pie.
Estuvo medio meh y ella caía mal.
June 3, 2023
Slightly less misogynistic than rina Kent books 🙄 nothing special but at least she isn’t spineless. Him? I wanted to kill him multiple times.
I was excited to read but sadly disappointed. Wont be continuing the series definitely won’t be recommending this to any of friends.
I was excited to read but sadly disappointed. Wont be continuing the series definitely won’t be recommending this to any of friends.
March 23, 2025
»She's my fiancée. We're a team. No other woman here has her strength, so what are you going to do when we're out of this prison and in the real world? My queen will kick your queen's ass, I guarantee it.«
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑴𝒊𝒓𝒂𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒂 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
I adored her. She is strong, intelligent and fights for what she wants in life. She is strong willed and stands her ground against Marcello. Really liked her.
�� 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒍𝒐 ࣪⋆✮
This man. First I didn‘t like him and I was like „what an asshole“. But his character developed nicely and I could relate to him and his actions. He is brutal, dangerous and head over heels in love with his woman.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
This book started slow but got better with every single page. I was glued to my kindle the whole evening and couldn‘t stop reading. The setting at the mafia college is interesting and I was hyped. The plot is thrilling with some action and a lot of drama going down. It was fun to read and entertaining.
The writing style is easy to read and you can see a clear development throughout the book. In general this book catches me off guard but I loved it. Like I said the beginning was a bit bumpy but it turned out amazing.
Mirabella and Marcello are a great couple with good tension. Their banter was chef kiss and I giggled a lot. Both have good and bad character traits which were portrayed well. I liked how their story turned out and the way both developed within this book.
Overall this was a very good and enjoyable mafia romance. I am hyped for the next book.
𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤?
Yes! Mafia academy, an arranged marriage and a plot for revenge? Sold.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓 ׂㅤ𐙚 ࣪ ⭒
plot: 5/5
spice: 3/5
humor: 4/5
couple/tension: 5/5
world building: 5/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 ᡣ𐭩ྀི₊ ⊹
possessive and protective hero, instant attraction, touch her and die, forced proximity, arranged marriage, enemies to lovers, mafia college, mafia heir x mafia princess, she thought he is dead, revenge, striking a deal, „my fiancée“, murder mystery
𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲
ages: Mirabella (19) and Marcelo (21)
cheating: no
sharing: no
kinks: no
𝐬𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬
Savage Heir - Jagger Cole
God of Malice - Rina Kent
𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
#1 Vow of Revenge ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#2 Corrupting the Innocent ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#3 Coveting the Mafia Kings Sister ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#4 Craving my Rival ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑴𝒊𝒓𝒂𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒂 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
I adored her. She is strong, intelligent and fights for what she wants in life. She is strong willed and stands her ground against Marcello. Really liked her.
�� 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒍𝒐 ࣪⋆✮
This man. First I didn‘t like him and I was like „what an asshole“. But his character developed nicely and I could relate to him and his actions. He is brutal, dangerous and head over heels in love with his woman.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
This book started slow but got better with every single page. I was glued to my kindle the whole evening and couldn‘t stop reading. The setting at the mafia college is interesting and I was hyped. The plot is thrilling with some action and a lot of drama going down. It was fun to read and entertaining.
The writing style is easy to read and you can see a clear development throughout the book. In general this book catches me off guard but I loved it. Like I said the beginning was a bit bumpy but it turned out amazing.
Mirabella and Marcello are a great couple with good tension. Their banter was chef kiss and I giggled a lot. Both have good and bad character traits which were portrayed well. I liked how their story turned out and the way both developed within this book.
Overall this was a very good and enjoyable mafia romance. I am hyped for the next book.
𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤?
Yes! Mafia academy, an arranged marriage and a plot for revenge? Sold.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓 ׂㅤ𐙚 ࣪ ⭒
plot: 5/5
spice: 3/5
humor: 4/5
couple/tension: 5/5
world building: 5/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 ᡣ𐭩ྀི₊ ⊹
possessive and protective hero, instant attraction, touch her and die, forced proximity, arranged marriage, enemies to lovers, mafia college, mafia heir x mafia princess, she thought he is dead, revenge, striking a deal, „my fiancée“, murder mystery
𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲
ages: Mirabella (19) and Marcelo (21)
cheating: no
sharing: no
kinks: no
𝐬𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬
Savage Heir - Jagger Cole
God of Malice - Rina Kent
𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
#1 Vow of Revenge ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#2 Corrupting the Innocent ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#3 Coveting the Mafia Kings Sister ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#4 Craving my Rival ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
December 2, 2024
3.5/5
I liked the setup of this book and had fun with the Italian mafia college students inna private school. The fmc is an independent woman who does not just to loose herself and be just a mafia wife. She is unhappy when she sees her fiancé who she thought was dead in class. The mmc is the head of his mafia house and is in the school to find out what happened to his dad.
The romance had a lot of push and pull with tension as the fmc was trying not to be like the majority of mafia wife’s. Theres a lot of steamy scenes and i liked how strong and brilliant the fmc was especially cause she didn’t take any shit from the men. There’s also this side plot on who offed the mmc’s dad and it cumulates in secrets, betrayals and more mafia politics. Overall this was okay, there were times i was a bit bored but i liked that this wasn’t that dark of a mafia book.
Read for:
- Mafia romance
- College romance
- Mafia college
- He gives her Italian nicknames
- Protective mmc
I liked the setup of this book and had fun with the Italian mafia college students inna private school. The fmc is an independent woman who does not just to loose herself and be just a mafia wife. She is unhappy when she sees her fiancé who she thought was dead in class. The mmc is the head of his mafia house and is in the school to find out what happened to his dad.
The romance had a lot of push and pull with tension as the fmc was trying not to be like the majority of mafia wife’s. Theres a lot of steamy scenes and i liked how strong and brilliant the fmc was especially cause she didn’t take any shit from the men. There’s also this side plot on who offed the mmc’s dad and it cumulates in secrets, betrayals and more mafia politics. Overall this was okay, there were times i was a bit bored but i liked that this wasn’t that dark of a mafia book.
Read for:
- Mafia romance
- College romance
- Mafia college
- He gives her Italian nicknames
- Protective mmc
April 26, 2023
This book kind of fell flat for me. I was not a fan of any of the characters. At first I thought I would really like Mirabella cause she wanted to be really involved in the family business (mafia), but she really didn’t prove herself. Marcello had all the characteristics you would want in the mafia MC but to me it just didn’t work out with him. I don’t know, I just wasn’t the biggest fan of the book. I think the plot was good but the characters would act super young one minute and then like adults the next. If you want just an easy mafia book with some spice and younger (college age) characters then this book is for you.
May 31, 2023
I really enjoyed it. Dark, academic, mafia, new adult. The steam was right up my alley and I loved the heroine wanted to be seen as an equal vs. a mafia wife set aside to look pretty. Great suspense plot set up as well!
Available in KU | Standalone Series
Available in KU | Standalone Series
September 7, 2025
3⭐️ This was honestly such a fun read! It’s basically a silly, over-the-top college romance about rich, mafia kids who think they’re adults running the world. Is the premise completely ridiculous? Oh, 100%. But I couldn’t put it down, and I’ll definitely keep reading the rest of the series.
Now, what didn’t quite work for me was the heroine’s “independent streak.” On one hand, I get it—she wants freedom and feels suffocated by her world, which makes sense. But the way the author kept hammering in the “women can do anything men can do” angle felt forced, especially when she’s suddenly winning (along with the mmc as the leader) in a male-dominated competition. It pulled me out of the story because… let’s be real, that’s not super believable.
Yes, it’s over the top, it’s messy, it’s dramatic, even a bit juvenile at time, but I still kind of loved it.
Tropes:
• Enemies to lovers
• Dark academia vibes about young adults who are part of the mafia
• Arranged marriage to unite powerful families
• Betrayal (or at least the perception of it)
• A very extra third act where she literally takes a bullet for him
I stare at Marcelo, dwarfing the open doorway. The bastard picked the lock.
“What do you want?”
He steps in and slams the door. “I have something of yours.”
I scoff. “You don’t have anything I want, I can assure you.” I stand to hold my own with him.
His dark eyes take me in from head to foot and I fight not to squirm under his perusal. “You’ll take it just the same.” He breaches the distance until he’s in front of me, standing with his hand out.
My forehead wrinkles and I look at his open palm. Nestled almost delicately in his big, brutal hand is my five-carat cushion-cut engagement ring.
“You’re out of your mind if you think I’m wearing that.” I cross my arms and walk to the other side of the room, away from him and his admittedly alluring scent. I don’t know what kind of cologne he’s wearing, but it’s divine, which is a word I refuse to associate with this man.
He follows me until my back is pressed against the wall. “You mistake me, principessa. I’m not asking.” The glint in his eyes dares me to refuse him.
Challenge accepted.
“You say that like I care.”
Without warning, his hand locks around my neck, squeezing gently. Not enough to hurt me, but enough to make it clear that he could if he wanted to.
I stare him straight in his dark eyes.
The corner of his mouth tips up at my refusal to be cowed. “Careful, I find I like it when you fight back.” He strokes his thumb up and down my jugular and my traitorous nipples tighten.
What is wrong with me?
“Go to hell.” I pucker my lips and spit right in his face.
A flash of rage sears his face, and he wipes off my saliva with the back of his hand. “That’s the one and only time I’ll allow you to disrespect me. Consider it an engagement gift. The next time, I’ll put you over my knee and spank you like an insolent child.”
Now, what didn’t quite work for me was the heroine’s “independent streak.” On one hand, I get it—she wants freedom and feels suffocated by her world, which makes sense. But the way the author kept hammering in the “women can do anything men can do” angle felt forced, especially when she’s suddenly winning (along with the mmc as the leader) in a male-dominated competition. It pulled me out of the story because… let’s be real, that’s not super believable.
Yes, it’s over the top, it’s messy, it’s dramatic, even a bit juvenile at time, but I still kind of loved it.
Tropes:
• Enemies to lovers
• Dark academia vibes about young adults who are part of the mafia
• Arranged marriage to unite powerful families
• Betrayal (or at least the perception of it)
• A very extra third act where she literally takes a bullet for him
I stare at Marcelo, dwarfing the open doorway. The bastard picked the lock.
“What do you want?”
He steps in and slams the door. “I have something of yours.”
I scoff. “You don’t have anything I want, I can assure you.” I stand to hold my own with him.
His dark eyes take me in from head to foot and I fight not to squirm under his perusal. “You’ll take it just the same.” He breaches the distance until he’s in front of me, standing with his hand out.
My forehead wrinkles and I look at his open palm. Nestled almost delicately in his big, brutal hand is my five-carat cushion-cut engagement ring.
“You’re out of your mind if you think I’m wearing that.” I cross my arms and walk to the other side of the room, away from him and his admittedly alluring scent. I don’t know what kind of cologne he’s wearing, but it’s divine, which is a word I refuse to associate with this man.
He follows me until my back is pressed against the wall. “You mistake me, principessa. I’m not asking.” The glint in his eyes dares me to refuse him.
Challenge accepted.
“You say that like I care.”
Without warning, his hand locks around my neck, squeezing gently. Not enough to hurt me, but enough to make it clear that he could if he wanted to.
I stare him straight in his dark eyes.
The corner of his mouth tips up at my refusal to be cowed. “Careful, I find I like it when you fight back.” He strokes his thumb up and down my jugular and my traitorous nipples tighten.
What is wrong with me?
“Go to hell.” I pucker my lips and spit right in his face.
A flash of rage sears his face, and he wipes off my saliva with the back of his hand. “That’s the one and only time I’ll allow you to disrespect me. Consider it an engagement gift. The next time, I’ll put you over my knee and spank you like an insolent child.”
May 9, 2023
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4 / 5 Stars
POV : Dual
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 5/10
Heat Rating : 5/10
Overall Opinion :
I was all over this one when I read the blurb. I mean it's a High school mafia romance with an arranged marriage trope and enemies to lovers as well ! It's like the author grouped all my favorite tropes in one and decided to give this book 🤣🤣
Vow of Revenge is an amazing Dark Mafia romance that I absolutely loved so much! I was hooked right from the start to the very end just because of the steam and the chemistry. There was this angst between the protagonists due to the enemies to lovers trope and I loved that so much! The ending was great as well and this was a good read on an overall basis.
Definitely recommending this one to all the dark romance loving people out there!
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April 27, 2023
✦✧✧𝙑𝙤𝙬 𝙤𝙛 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚✧✧✦
𝙗𝙮 𝙋. 𝙍𝗮𝘆𝗻𝙚
❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
5/5 4/5
I received this from Valentine PR, in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is the first book in the Mafia Academy series.
Mirabella was wanted to go to the Sicuro Academy, and finally gets the chance when Marcelo, the man she was promised to, is killed. Much to everyone surprise, especially Mirabella’s, Marcelo walks into to school as a late entry, and lets Mirabella know their engagement is still on.
Marcelo Costa, is the head of his family now, and his marriage to Mirabella is beneficial to both of their families. Hes come to the Sicuro Academy to find out who tried to kill him. At this moment, he can’t trust anyone.
This story had me binging it to find out what was going to happen. This is such a delicious mix of dark romance, and suspense. Mirabella is such a feisty and outspoken woman, which I thoroughly enjoyed. She’s not your typical mafia princess that just wants to shop all day.
I can’t wait for 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗿𝘂𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁 the second book in the Mafia Academy series!
This book includes
- mafia romance
- Antihero
- Strong, badass heroine
- Enemies to Lovers
- Suspense
- Spicy 🥵
- Ivy League university
𝙗𝙮 𝙋. 𝙍𝗮𝘆𝗻𝙚
❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
5/5 4/5
I received this from Valentine PR, in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is the first book in the Mafia Academy series.
Mirabella was wanted to go to the Sicuro Academy, and finally gets the chance when Marcelo, the man she was promised to, is killed. Much to everyone surprise, especially Mirabella’s, Marcelo walks into to school as a late entry, and lets Mirabella know their engagement is still on.
Marcelo Costa, is the head of his family now, and his marriage to Mirabella is beneficial to both of their families. Hes come to the Sicuro Academy to find out who tried to kill him. At this moment, he can’t trust anyone.
This story had me binging it to find out what was going to happen. This is such a delicious mix of dark romance, and suspense. Mirabella is such a feisty and outspoken woman, which I thoroughly enjoyed. She’s not your typical mafia princess that just wants to shop all day.
I can’t wait for 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗿𝘂𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁 the second book in the Mafia Academy series!
This book includes
- mafia romance
- Antihero
- Strong, badass heroine
- Enemies to Lovers
- Suspense
- Spicy 🥵
- Ivy League university
September 6, 2023
Can't remember the last mafia romance I've read, but this was good. 3,5 stars rounded up good⭐⭐⭐🌙
The tension and chemistry between the main couple was present, the writing engaging and entertaining. The idea was really similar to Sophie Lark's college mafia series, no idea who done it first, though.
The idea of a college for mafia kids of rivaling groups and even countries is laughable, but the drama was fun 😅🤷🏼♀️
The heroine was your typical "I wanna be an equal leader in a mafia world", which to me is not realistic in a mafia setting lol. But I could relate to the heroine on a LOT of points regardless, and loved her in the end 🙌
The tension and chemistry between the main couple was present, the writing engaging and entertaining. The idea was really similar to Sophie Lark's college mafia series, no idea who done it first, though.
The idea of a college for mafia kids of rivaling groups and even countries is laughable, but the drama was fun 😅🤷🏼♀️
The heroine was your typical "I wanna be an equal leader in a mafia world", which to me is not realistic in a mafia setting lol. But I could relate to the heroine on a LOT of points regardless, and loved her in the end 🙌
March 1, 2025
2.75⭐️ this was disappointing. definitely fell flat, was pretty cringey at times, and i’m not a huge fan of the writing style. but the drama and angst was enough for me to not want to put it down/dnf i guess lol. the last 25-30% was the best part.
the premise was cool; a mafia college? sign me up! i wanted to like this… but when it really comes down to it, this unfortunately just felt like a group of young adults playing pretend mafia by regurgitating lines they got from old movies while waving guns & throwing fists.
the premise was cool; a mafia college? sign me up! i wanted to like this… but when it really comes down to it, this unfortunately just felt like a group of young adults playing pretend mafia by regurgitating lines they got from old movies while waving guns & throwing fists.
October 4, 2023
4⭐️
Really good read. I love the mafia academy premise.
I immediately bought the next book and preordered the other 2. Can’t wait to read all the stories 🙌
Really good read. I love the mafia academy premise.
I immediately bought the next book and preordered the other 2. Can’t wait to read all the stories 🙌
April 30, 2023
Marcelo and Mirabella's story starts off rocky. Well, what would you call it if you thought your Fiance was dead and suddenly he showed up at the school you were attending out of the blue like nothing happened? You see Marcelo and Mirabella were promised to one another in an arraigned marriage by their fathers, the heads of the mafia on the East Coast; Marcelo is from the North East, and Mirabella is from the South, but before they could tie the knot a car explosion supposedly took Marcelo's and his fathers lives. But now he's back to find out who set off the bomb that killed his father and to claim his bride-to-be.
Continue reading my review here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewVoR
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Continue reading my review here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewVoR
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
March 10, 2024
if felt like mirabelle and marcello were just trying to roleplay as adults who would supposedly take over a fucking mafia empire, HAHAHAJJSKK MAFIA LEADERS MY ASS
everything was just plainly lacking and for the next book i have no interest to read sofia as a fmc she's boring and BLAND
this was the end for me and this series,,sadlyyyyyyy
everything was just plainly lacking and for the next book i have no interest to read sofia as a fmc she's boring and BLAND
this was the end for me and this series,,sadlyyyyyyy
August 25, 2024
You know, I’m not really mad at this one🥸 Was the bad guy obvious? Sure🤷♀️ Was the concept interesting, but also vaguely executed? Yeah🤷♀️ But I’m gonna lock in for a kindle mafia romance every time🫡 It’s certainly not the worst I’ve read, however, I don’t think I’m too invested in any of the characters (including these two tbh)😗 But I’ll probably finish the series anyway and see where it goes😭
January 30, 2025
Poorly written wattpad trash. One of the most corny and embarrassing mafia romances I have ever had the displeasure of consuming. I hated this😃
May 15, 2023
3.5 ⭐️❤️🔥
September 12, 2024
3.5 stars!
This story felt very familiar but it was still very enjoyable! I could definitely see the growth and chemistry in Mirabella and Marcello's characters. The only thing I had trouble with was connecting with them. They felt very young at times, which I understand because they're technically in the academy, but there were moments where I felt like it just didn't fit their ages. I also expected Mirabella to do... more? I love that she's daring and she isn't afraid to speak up for herself, but nothing in the book really showed this enough. As for Marcelo, I didn't like him at all in the beginning but I think the authors did a good job showing the change in his character. Overall, even though this book was fairly predictable, it was still a fun read and I'll definitely be continuing with the series once the books release!
This story felt very familiar but it was still very enjoyable! I could definitely see the growth and chemistry in Mirabella and Marcello's characters. The only thing I had trouble with was connecting with them. They felt very young at times, which I understand because they're technically in the academy, but there were moments where I felt like it just didn't fit their ages. I also expected Mirabella to do... more? I love that she's daring and she isn't afraid to speak up for herself, but nothing in the book really showed this enough. As for Marcelo, I didn't like him at all in the beginning but I think the authors did a good job showing the change in his character. Overall, even though this book was fairly predictable, it was still a fun read and I'll definitely be continuing with the series once the books release!
June 29, 2025
3.75 such a fun fast paced read. This one is an arranged marriage, enemies to lovers, set at a mafia academy. The plot was good, and so was the romance, a solid palette cleanser book!
April 26, 2023
What if your dead fiancé suddenly stands in your classroom?
As children of the mafia, Mirabella and Marcello will have to marry each other, arranged by their parents.
Mirabella doesn’t want that to happen and couldn’t be happier when she found out Marcello was dead, until he wasn’t.
Vow of Revenge is the first book in the new series by P. Rayne: Mafia Academy. It is a mafia, arranged marriage, dark romance.
I have loved every book written by this author duo (Piper Rayne), but now that they have turned to their darker side, I love them even more. The book is full of young adults trying to find their way in life, suspense, mystery, and off course a lot of spice.
This book will keep you on edge, and things you did not see coming.
As children of the mafia, Mirabella and Marcello will have to marry each other, arranged by their parents.
Mirabella doesn’t want that to happen and couldn’t be happier when she found out Marcello was dead, until he wasn’t.
Vow of Revenge is the first book in the new series by P. Rayne: Mafia Academy. It is a mafia, arranged marriage, dark romance.
I have loved every book written by this author duo (Piper Rayne), but now that they have turned to their darker side, I love them even more. The book is full of young adults trying to find their way in life, suspense, mystery, and off course a lot of spice.
This book will keep you on edge, and things you did not see coming.
April 26, 2023
Rate: 4,5⭐️
It exceeded all my expectations. I can’t believe this was really a Piper Rayne’s book, it was so different from her other books and I really enjoyed this.
Marcelo my new crush🤭.
If you’re thinking to read this, don’t think twice. It’s all a book mafia can offer, and better.
It exceeded all my expectations. I can’t believe this was really a Piper Rayne’s book, it was so different from her other books and I really enjoyed this.
Marcelo my new crush🤭.
If you’re thinking to read this, don’t think twice. It’s all a book mafia can offer, and better.
April 25, 2023
Arranged Marriage ✅
Mafia ✅
Enemies to Lovers✅
I was hooked from the very first page.
The storyline was so good!! I loved the setting of being in a private and highly secured school. The character were so intriguing from the very beginning too. Mira is fiery and won’t back down or get on her knees for nobody😏 Marcelo is cunning and strong, a leader of a powerful mafia family who was promised Mira to be his wife. You can guess how that starts off.
This book was fun, steamy, action filled with some mystery as to who killed Marcelo’s father and also romantic. Literal perfection if you ask me.
Can’t wait to find out what happens with Sofia😍
Thank you Valentine PR and P. Rayne for allowing me the chance to review this masterpiece❤️
Mafia ✅
Enemies to Lovers✅
I was hooked from the very first page.
The storyline was so good!! I loved the setting of being in a private and highly secured school. The character were so intriguing from the very beginning too. Mira is fiery and won’t back down or get on her knees for nobody😏 Marcelo is cunning and strong, a leader of a powerful mafia family who was promised Mira to be his wife. You can guess how that starts off.
This book was fun, steamy, action filled with some mystery as to who killed Marcelo’s father and also romantic. Literal perfection if you ask me.
Can’t wait to find out what happens with Sofia😍
Thank you Valentine PR and P. Rayne for allowing me the chance to review this masterpiece❤️
April 27, 2023
Thank you to Valentine PR for the advance copy of Vow of Revenge.
Private academy, bully romance, mafia romance, enemies to lovers?! I know this book was not written directly for me, but it definitely felt like it. I read this book in two sittings with a toddler. That’s how invested I was.
The pacing of the story was perfect. I always like when the plot catalyst is in the past but instead of flashing back, it’s weaved into the real-time story. I haven’t read a ton of mafia romance, but an academy setting hasn’t been done too much and I think it adds an extra layer of goodness. There’s more opportunity for angst and friend relationships to be explored (as we see in Vow of Revenge). Plus the school being a school for crime families to learn skills required to become heads of their family was so fun. I really liked the War Games. I’d love to get a little more of the school in future installments.
Mira was a great FMC. She was spunky and ambitious and a total free spirit. I also liked Sophia as a nice balance to her, as the standard good little mafia princess. Marcelo while not the physical appearance that I prefer, was such an attractive MMC. I’m a sucker for the ‘her defiance fires me up’ trope and from page 1 he radiated his struggle between wanting to break her will and wanting her to be her own person. Speaking of from page 1, there is also steam starting right away, with spice making its way in later. And the spice, yeah, it’s HOT. As Mira and Marcelo come together, we can begin to see the bend in both of them - Mira realizing that being a mafia wife might not be the worst thing (especially to Marcelo) and Marcelo realizing that having a woman standing by his side and holding her own may be beneficial.
I am so excited for the second book in this series. While I would love to continue exploring Mira and Marcelo, I’m also stoked that we’re going to get features on other characters, because they were all enjoyable and all seem to have their own complex personalities to explore.
Private academy, bully romance, mafia romance, enemies to lovers?! I know this book was not written directly for me, but it definitely felt like it. I read this book in two sittings with a toddler. That’s how invested I was.
The pacing of the story was perfect. I always like when the plot catalyst is in the past but instead of flashing back, it’s weaved into the real-time story. I haven’t read a ton of mafia romance, but an academy setting hasn’t been done too much and I think it adds an extra layer of goodness. There’s more opportunity for angst and friend relationships to be explored (as we see in Vow of Revenge). Plus the school being a school for crime families to learn skills required to become heads of their family was so fun. I really liked the War Games. I’d love to get a little more of the school in future installments.
Mira was a great FMC. She was spunky and ambitious and a total free spirit. I also liked Sophia as a nice balance to her, as the standard good little mafia princess. Marcelo while not the physical appearance that I prefer, was such an attractive MMC. I’m a sucker for the ‘her defiance fires me up’ trope and from page 1 he radiated his struggle between wanting to break her will and wanting her to be her own person. Speaking of from page 1, there is also steam starting right away, with spice making its way in later. And the spice, yeah, it’s HOT. As Mira and Marcelo come together, we can begin to see the bend in both of them - Mira realizing that being a mafia wife might not be the worst thing (especially to Marcelo) and Marcelo realizing that having a woman standing by his side and holding her own may be beneficial.
I am so excited for the second book in this series. While I would love to continue exploring Mira and Marcelo, I’m also stoked that we’re going to get features on other characters, because they were all enjoyable and all seem to have their own complex personalities to explore.
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