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Vicious Addictions
Vicious Addictions is the first installment in this action-packed, drama-filled mafia romance series from USA Today Bestselling Author Ivy Fox.
"Enter the dangerous world of power, passion, and forbidden love in The Next Vicious Generation—where blind loyalty always comes at a price."
Everyone in Chicago knows my name.
I’m Jude Adamo Romano—the eldest son of the Romano clan and the heir to the Outfit crime syndicate.
Power, control, and loyalty are my family’s legacy, the only things I hold dear.
As for love? Love is a weakness.
I’ve witnessed how it twists, destroys, and corrupts even the most honorable men, and I vowed never to let it ruin me.
Not again.
I kept that promise—until she walked back into my life.
Mina Crane... the one woman who ever made me question everything. The only one I’d risk it all for, even my birthright.
But in my world, something as fragile as love always comes with a steep price.
As loyalties shatter and enemies close in, I find myself at a crossroads, faced with an impossible decision.
Will I fight for the woman who brings me to my knees with just a smile, or will duty and honor chain me to a fate I no longer desire?
For what is a throne without a queen to rule by my side?
"Enter the dangerous world of power, passion, and forbidden love in The Next Vicious Generation—where blind loyalty always comes at a price."
Everyone in Chicago knows my name.
I’m Jude Adamo Romano—the eldest son of the Romano clan and the heir to the Outfit crime syndicate.
Power, control, and loyalty are my family’s legacy, the only things I hold dear.
As for love? Love is a weakness.
I’ve witnessed how it twists, destroys, and corrupts even the most honorable men, and I vowed never to let it ruin me.
Not again.
I kept that promise—until she walked back into my life.
Mina Crane... the one woman who ever made me question everything. The only one I’d risk it all for, even my birthright.
But in my world, something as fragile as love always comes with a steep price.
As loyalties shatter and enemies close in, I find myself at a crossroads, faced with an impossible decision.
Will I fight for the woman who brings me to my knees with just a smile, or will duty and honor chain me to a fate I no longer desire?
For what is a throne without a queen to rule by my side?
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2025
62 people are currently reading
190 people want to read
About the author
Ivy Fox
49 books1,759 followersIvy Fox is a USA Today bestselling author who thrives on angst, yearning, and the kind of soul-crushing tension that keeps readers up way past their bedtime.
A shameless connoisseur of emotional chaos, Ivy crafts stories where feelings hit hard, desire simmers low, and falling in love feels completely inevitable. She believes love is beautiful and should be celebrated in all its forms, so readers can expect everything from MF, MM, and MMF romances to one lucky heroine collecting an entire harem of devoted soulmates.
When she’s not unleashing emotional devastation on the page, Ivy lives a pretty chill life with her two favorite men—her husband and her son.
The only thing that truly keeps her up at night are the fictional characters in her head who refuse to shut up until she tells their story. She’s long learned to let them run the show… and honestly, she wouldn’t have it any other way.
A firm believer in happy endings, Ivy writes romance fueled by passion, heart, and the promise that no matter how messy things get, love will always prevail.
For more news on current and upcoming projects, get the inside scoop and sneak peeks by stalking Ivy on Social media!
@ivyfoxauthor
But for all the brave and sassy, join her FB reader's group - Ivy Sassy Foxes.
A shameless connoisseur of emotional chaos, Ivy crafts stories where feelings hit hard, desire simmers low, and falling in love feels completely inevitable. She believes love is beautiful and should be celebrated in all its forms, so readers can expect everything from MF, MM, and MMF romances to one lucky heroine collecting an entire harem of devoted soulmates.
When she’s not unleashing emotional devastation on the page, Ivy lives a pretty chill life with her two favorite men—her husband and her son.
The only thing that truly keeps her up at night are the fictional characters in her head who refuse to shut up until she tells their story. She’s long learned to let them run the show… and honestly, she wouldn’t have it any other way.
A firm believer in happy endings, Ivy writes romance fueled by passion, heart, and the promise that no matter how messy things get, love will always prevail.
For more news on current and upcoming projects, get the inside scoop and sneak peeks by stalking Ivy on Social media!
@ivyfoxauthor
But for all the brave and sassy, join her FB reader's group - Ivy Sassy Foxes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
March 1, 2025
”Tell me that you missed me. Tell me you missed how I used to touch you… kiss you. Tell me that I’m not alone in this. That you yearn for me as I yearn for you.”
I am a massive fan of generational mafia romance series so of course I had to dive right into the follow up to the Rotten Love duet. Jude and Mina’s slow burn romance was perfection. I adored how they both wanted each other to succeed in their syndicate positions and became each others support systems as they navigated the complexities of their world. The tension was so palpable and when they finally give into their desires for each other 😮💨😮💨😮💨 of course Ivy is going to use the timeline to mess with my emotions 😩 but it is totally worth the pay off. Mina is an unapologetic alpha female determined to lead the Firm and I was all for her power she exudes. We get to see a lot of cameos from our Rotten Love Quartet which is so nostalgic for me 🥹 overal I thought the pace, build up and ending was great for the Mina and Jude’s story. I am also so excited to get to know the rest of Jude’s siblings!
I am a massive fan of generational mafia romance series so of course I had to dive right into the follow up to the Rotten Love duet. Jude and Mina’s slow burn romance was perfection. I adored how they both wanted each other to succeed in their syndicate positions and became each others support systems as they navigated the complexities of their world. The tension was so palpable and when they finally give into their desires for each other 😮💨😮💨😮💨 of course Ivy is going to use the timeline to mess with my emotions 😩 but it is totally worth the pay off. Mina is an unapologetic alpha female determined to lead the Firm and I was all for her power she exudes. We get to see a lot of cameos from our Rotten Love Quartet which is so nostalgic for me 🥹 overal I thought the pace, build up and ending was great for the Mina and Jude’s story. I am also so excited to get to know the rest of Jude’s siblings!
March 4, 2025
So worth the wait!!! I adore Selene and her men from Rotten Love and have been patiently (mostly patiently) awaiting the next gen for forever. Totally worth it! Jude and Mina are perfection! Jude doesn’t need the throne just his Queen by his side. Can’t wait for the next book! 💜
March 1, 2025
I am glad that I managed to finish this book. Wanted to dnf but I only had 10 chapters left, so I stayed on.
What I like about this book:
The general narrative writing style. This made it easy to read. I also love how we follow the characterese from when they were young chronologically. It's not a mix of flashacks, but ather, we follow them as they grow.
Npw that this is out of the way, time for my rant.
Maybe romance is dead to me right now because I find myself retching throughout this book. It's way too sappy for me. It feels so unrealistic. I may just be a bitter middle aged lady. Who knows. The characters do not feel authentic to me and I cannot relate.
I find the main characters to be vexing to follow. Maybe it's also due to the fact that they are young in age so you can see the immaturity of these characters, which may be totally valid for their age, but I don't vibe with.
We follow Mina from when she was 16. She started off as haughty and a little annoying, but then her character went through a change after meeting our MMC, Jude. You can see how she has softened and such through the course of their interaction. He was also her first love, which made sense for her irrational behaviour towards him when he had to return to Chicago. It was just not my cup of tea for me.
Because if she was willing to give up her dream to lead the Firm one day to be with him, she could have followed hiim back to chicago instead of acting the way she did. This is just my rational side talking. I am of older age. So yeah. I can understand her actions, being how young she was, but it does not mean I would accept it. She wants him to give up his dreams to be with her. I feel like there are other ways they can do things. Lke, LDR exists? This much angst between them could literally be solved easily.
Jude, on the other hand, I find him to be waaay too sappy. But I guess it aligns with his nature of journaling and being a book lover. It was just too much for me. Like, I just want to skip through his thoughts because they feel so slimy to me. But what really got to me was how he was portrayed as this feminist, who believes a woman can be inducted into the “family” but wheb the time came for Mina, he wanted to “shield” her from this life. Like, instead of being supportive, he wanted her out of “danger” despite seeing her capabilities. I get the worry, but it's like, he did not trust her abilities. Yet, he supports her wanting to be the head of the Firm? Sort of makes no sense. His rooding nature was also just off to me. And the fact that he pulled his gun to his step dad and brother? that's just fucking dumb. You would sacrifice your family. Seriously? That made no sense at all.
Adn what does not make sense to me is how Mina is portrayed as this badass girl in the later part of the story and how she could defeat multiple men but she was still “weaker” than Jude and could not fight him off.
Not to mention the fact that the ending left a bad taste in my mouth. Like, all his hard work for nothing? That would have been the start of my villain arc man.
The writing is inconsistent. And I am not a fan of this.
What I like about this book:
The general narrative writing style. This made it easy to read. I also love how we follow the characterese from when they were young chronologically. It's not a mix of flashacks, but ather, we follow them as they grow.
Npw that this is out of the way, time for my rant.
Maybe romance is dead to me right now because I find myself retching throughout this book. It's way too sappy for me. It feels so unrealistic. I may just be a bitter middle aged lady. Who knows. The characters do not feel authentic to me and I cannot relate.
I find the main characters to be vexing to follow. Maybe it's also due to the fact that they are young in age so you can see the immaturity of these characters, which may be totally valid for their age, but I don't vibe with.
We follow Mina from when she was 16. She started off as haughty and a little annoying, but then her character went through a change after meeting our MMC, Jude. You can see how she has softened and such through the course of their interaction. He was also her first love, which made sense for her irrational behaviour towards him when he had to return to Chicago. It was just not my cup of tea for me.
Because if she was willing to give up her dream to lead the Firm one day to be with him, she could have followed hiim back to chicago instead of acting the way she did. This is just my rational side talking. I am of older age. So yeah. I can understand her actions, being how young she was, but it does not mean I would accept it. She wants him to give up his dreams to be with her. I feel like there are other ways they can do things. Lke, LDR exists? This much angst between them could literally be solved easily.
Jude, on the other hand, I find him to be waaay too sappy. But I guess it aligns with his nature of journaling and being a book lover. It was just too much for me. Like, I just want to skip through his thoughts because they feel so slimy to me. But what really got to me was how he was portrayed as this feminist, who believes a woman can be inducted into the “family” but wheb the time came for Mina, he wanted to “shield” her from this life. Like, instead of being supportive, he wanted her out of “danger” despite seeing her capabilities. I get the worry, but it's like, he did not trust her abilities. Yet, he supports her wanting to be the head of the Firm? Sort of makes no sense. His rooding nature was also just off to me. And the fact that he pulled his gun to his step dad and brother? that's just fucking dumb. You would sacrifice your family. Seriously? That made no sense at all.
Adn what does not make sense to me is how Mina is portrayed as this badass girl in the later part of the story and how she could defeat multiple men but she was still “weaker” than Jude and could not fight him off.
Not to mention the fact that the ending left a bad taste in my mouth. Like, all his hard work for nothing? That would have been the start of my villain arc man.
The writing is inconsistent. And I am not a fan of this.
March 11, 2025
ARC REVIEW
This was hard to get through at times. I felt like it was longer than it needed to be. I love the writing style, but maybe this type of book isn't for me.
This was hard to get through at times. I felt like it was longer than it needed to be. I love the writing style, but maybe this type of book isn't for me.
March 2, 2025
I love ivy. It was a solid 3. I felt like this book was way longer than it needed to be though. Hard to get through some parts of it but I’ll always read her work
March 10, 2025
"Vicious Addictions" by Ivy Fox is a suspense-filled second chance mafia romance that hooks you from the very beginning. The story follows Jude and Mina, who are born into powerful Mafia families. Jude fights to be included in his family, while Mina is fortunate not to have to struggle for her place.
Jude travels across the world to study under Mina's father, working hard to prove that he has what it takes to run the family business. As Jude and Mina grow closer, Jude is careful not to jeopardize his position in the family
One thing I didn't like is the ultimatum Mina gave. It's not just about her and his need to be head of the family. She needs to understand that by staying with her, he forfeits any right to be in his family. At that point she acted like a spoiled child.
If we overlook this moment from Mina, I found her to be a strong, no nonsense character that could stand up for herself and didn’t need anyone else's help. Jude, I have to admit, was not what I expected from an heir to a Mafia throne. At times, he did come across as a lot 'softer' than the rest of the characters, However, he stepped up when he needed to.
There were a few moments that felt a bit contradictory. For instance, Vince refused to induct Jude because of his mother but had no problems inducting his 18-year-old brother without telling his mum. There were several things that happened with his family that made me feel sorry for Jude
Despite these few issues, I really enjoyed the storyline. There was plenty of alpha possessiveness from Jude and edge-of-your-seat suspense. Being able to go into the past and watch Jude's and Mina's friendship blossom helped us understand their relationship and what happened between them
While this book somewhat concluded Mina and Jude's part of the story, we are left on a cliffhanger with the overarching storyline. The author did an excellent job of lulling us into a false sense of security before a major event happens, leaving us with our jaws on the floor!
Overall, "Vicious Addictions" is an addictive Mafia romance and an excellent beginning to a new series.
Jude travels across the world to study under Mina's father, working hard to prove that he has what it takes to run the family business. As Jude and Mina grow closer, Jude is careful not to jeopardize his position in the family
One thing I didn't like is the ultimatum Mina gave. It's not just about her and his need to be head of the family. She needs to understand that by staying with her, he forfeits any right to be in his family. At that point she acted like a spoiled child.
If we overlook this moment from Mina, I found her to be a strong, no nonsense character that could stand up for herself and didn’t need anyone else's help. Jude, I have to admit, was not what I expected from an heir to a Mafia throne. At times, he did come across as a lot 'softer' than the rest of the characters, However, he stepped up when he needed to.
There were a few moments that felt a bit contradictory. For instance, Vince refused to induct Jude because of his mother but had no problems inducting his 18-year-old brother without telling his mum. There were several things that happened with his family that made me feel sorry for Jude
Despite these few issues, I really enjoyed the storyline. There was plenty of alpha possessiveness from Jude and edge-of-your-seat suspense. Being able to go into the past and watch Jude's and Mina's friendship blossom helped us understand their relationship and what happened between them
While this book somewhat concluded Mina and Jude's part of the story, we are left on a cliffhanger with the overarching storyline. The author did an excellent job of lulling us into a false sense of security before a major event happens, leaving us with our jaws on the floor!
Overall, "Vicious Addictions" is an addictive Mafia romance and an excellent beginning to a new series.
March 6, 2025
I absolutely adored this book! This was my first Ivy Fox book but after this I will be reading more. Jude and Mina hold a special place in my heart and I can not wait to see what happens with Jude's siblings.
~The Storyline~
Mina and Jude being Mafia heirs whose parents have a close bond is such an interesting storyline and the way that Jude goes to Mina's father to prepare him to take over his family's section is how he meets Mina. Jude and Mina's story follows them across many years as they grow and become ready to take over the family business, unfortunately Jude being from America and Mina from London leads Jude to return home and Mina to cement herself as the head of the London Firm and find another to marry. Seeing each other years later and Jude realizing he not only lost his love but is not the next heir to his family leads him to show Mina just how much she truly meant to him when she was convinced their love was one sided and she needed to move on from it. They end up together and happy which is all I wanted for them from the start.
~My Review~
Mina drew me in from the first introduction, she was so sure of herself and her worth but also allows herself to be vulnerable in her love and wanting of Jude which makes her such a strong character, seeing her grow into the next head of the firm but also into herself made the story so compelling. We really experience a lot with Mina and Jude. Jude wants nothing more than to be the head of his family business even if it means giving up Mina, he hides his love so well Mina was convinced he did not love her. The journals oh the journals! I NEED a book of just Jude's journal entries! They way they laid his heart out for not only Mina but us too!! Jude and Mina belong together and I loved reading every single moment of their story
~The Storyline~
Mina and Jude being Mafia heirs whose parents have a close bond is such an interesting storyline and the way that Jude goes to Mina's father to prepare him to take over his family's section is how he meets Mina. Jude and Mina's story follows them across many years as they grow and become ready to take over the family business, unfortunately Jude being from America and Mina from London leads Jude to return home and Mina to cement herself as the head of the London Firm and find another to marry. Seeing each other years later and Jude realizing he not only lost his love but is not the next heir to his family leads him to show Mina just how much she truly meant to him when she was convinced their love was one sided and she needed to move on from it. They end up together and happy which is all I wanted for them from the start.
~My Review~
Mina drew me in from the first introduction, she was so sure of herself and her worth but also allows herself to be vulnerable in her love and wanting of Jude which makes her such a strong character, seeing her grow into the next head of the firm but also into herself made the story so compelling. We really experience a lot with Mina and Jude. Jude wants nothing more than to be the head of his family business even if it means giving up Mina, he hides his love so well Mina was convinced he did not love her. The journals oh the journals! I NEED a book of just Jude's journal entries! They way they laid his heart out for not only Mina but us too!! Jude and Mina belong together and I loved reading every single moment of their story
March 2, 2025
The first book in the next vicious generation series. We get some amazing tropes put of this Mafia Romance
🖤Forbidden Romance
🖤Second Chance Romance
🖤Slow Burn
🖤Age Gap
🖤Coming of Age – First Love
🖤Touch her and die vibes
🖤Boy Obsessed
🖤Strong heroine
🖤Revenge, drama and lies
🖤And a whole lot of ANGST!
I really enjoyed that we got to watch Jude and Mina grow up. We start off at Minas' 16th birthday party, and Jude was 19. Mina is the only child and heir to the Crane Firm, a mafia outfit on England. Jude is the oldest son to the head of the Chicago Outfit. However, his parents don't want their children involved. So Jude goes to England for college and starts learning the business under Victor Crane himself.
Mina and Jude form a friendship at first that then evolves to more. Mina is a strong female lead who wants to take the place of her father after he is done, which a female has never been part of. She has to break through molds and men thinking it's no place for a woman. Despite that, she has Jude, who believes in her as well as her twin cousins.
Jude, after spending years in England, is summoned back home right after Minas dad offered him the succession to the firm. He feels he needs to go home to claim his spot to his families outfit.
Flashforward five years and a lot of hurt feelings and broken hearts the two end up seeing each other again. They have trials and tribulations to go through but they end up where they are supposed to be.
I loved meeting Judes siblings and can't wait till the next book. I enjoyed the can and can't between Jude and Mina, and there were definitely twists and turns in this book that made me not want to put it down. Can't wait till book 2 comes out since we were left on a cliffhanger.
🖤Forbidden Romance
🖤Second Chance Romance
🖤Slow Burn
🖤Age Gap
🖤Coming of Age – First Love
🖤Touch her and die vibes
🖤Boy Obsessed
🖤Strong heroine
🖤Revenge, drama and lies
🖤And a whole lot of ANGST!
I really enjoyed that we got to watch Jude and Mina grow up. We start off at Minas' 16th birthday party, and Jude was 19. Mina is the only child and heir to the Crane Firm, a mafia outfit on England. Jude is the oldest son to the head of the Chicago Outfit. However, his parents don't want their children involved. So Jude goes to England for college and starts learning the business under Victor Crane himself.
Mina and Jude form a friendship at first that then evolves to more. Mina is a strong female lead who wants to take the place of her father after he is done, which a female has never been part of. She has to break through molds and men thinking it's no place for a woman. Despite that, she has Jude, who believes in her as well as her twin cousins.
Jude, after spending years in England, is summoned back home right after Minas dad offered him the succession to the firm. He feels he needs to go home to claim his spot to his families outfit.
Flashforward five years and a lot of hurt feelings and broken hearts the two end up seeing each other again. They have trials and tribulations to go through but they end up where they are supposed to be.
I loved meeting Judes siblings and can't wait till the next book. I enjoyed the can and can't between Jude and Mina, and there were definitely twists and turns in this book that made me not want to put it down. Can't wait till book 2 comes out since we were left on a cliffhanger.
March 17, 2025
4.5 stars Fantastic start to this series
I absolutely could not put this book down. It was action packed, fast paced, steamy and pulled at my heartstrings. Ivy Fox wrote one captivating, suspenseful and consuming book that I couldn't get enough of.
Mina Crane was the best FMC ever! She stole the show for me. She was independent, fierce, smart ,sassy and a total bada$$. She knew what she wanted and never hesitated to go after it both in love and career. Mina stood her ground in a male dominated world and I loved that. Even though her father was the head of the Firm, he was not misogynistic and fully supported Mina, their relationship warmed my heart.
Now, what can I say about Jude Romano, I loved him but there were moments I wanted to smack him and tell him grow a pair. His possessiveness when it came to Mina was so hawtt and he definitely had his sweet and swoony moments. I know that he made certain decisions because he loved Mina but I found his lack of communication and indecisiveness at times a tad tiresome. He did redeem himself in the end though.
The chemistry between these two was so palpable and electrifying. They were definitely perfect for each other.
Mina's cousins Remus and Rolo, where the epitome of hikarious and crazy but their love and support for her were overwhelmingly adorable. I do hope they get their stories told too. I also enjoyed getting more insight into the Romano siblings.
This book was a great start for this new next generation series. The intrigue, suspense and angst had me tied up in knots from the beginning. That extended epilogue also had my jaw dropping and need the next book like yesterday. A definite must read.
I absolutely could not put this book down. It was action packed, fast paced, steamy and pulled at my heartstrings. Ivy Fox wrote one captivating, suspenseful and consuming book that I couldn't get enough of.
Mina Crane was the best FMC ever! She stole the show for me. She was independent, fierce, smart ,sassy and a total bada$$. She knew what she wanted and never hesitated to go after it both in love and career. Mina stood her ground in a male dominated world and I loved that. Even though her father was the head of the Firm, he was not misogynistic and fully supported Mina, their relationship warmed my heart.
Now, what can I say about Jude Romano, I loved him but there were moments I wanted to smack him and tell him grow a pair. His possessiveness when it came to Mina was so hawtt and he definitely had his sweet and swoony moments. I know that he made certain decisions because he loved Mina but I found his lack of communication and indecisiveness at times a tad tiresome. He did redeem himself in the end though.
The chemistry between these two was so palpable and electrifying. They were definitely perfect for each other.
Mina's cousins Remus and Rolo, where the epitome of hikarious and crazy but their love and support for her were overwhelmingly adorable. I do hope they get their stories told too. I also enjoyed getting more insight into the Romano siblings.
This book was a great start for this new next generation series. The intrigue, suspense and angst had me tied up in knots from the beginning. That extended epilogue also had my jaw dropping and need the next book like yesterday. A definite must read.
February 27, 2025
Vicious Addictions is the first book in The Next Vicious Generation Series, which is a series of interconnected standalones. It is a contemporary, M/F, mafia romance. The story is told from first person, multi pov and follows the characters as they age.
I absolutely loved the Rotten Love Duet and could not have been more excited about getting Selene, Vincent, Gio, and Dom's children's stories.
We get to meet all the kids in this book, but the first story to be told is their eldest son's, Jude. He should be the heir to his father's Italian mafia, but one big hurdle stands in his way, his mother, the Red Queen herself. Jude though is determined to obtain his birthright, no matter the cost.
Mina is the London Mafia Princess and supposed heir to her own throne, but alas misogyny is alive and well in the mafia world and Mina will have to be the best of the best to get her crown.
This was such a terrific book. I love the way Jude and Mina's relationship evolves. I loved their chemistry and all the angst. The action, the intrigue, the secrets, the lies, the deceit, the banter, the wit, the emotional moments, and the family drama make this book a real page turner.
The writing, pace, flow, and plot of this story are excellent as are the characters, storyline, storytelling, character development, relationship development, and world building.
I am officially addicted to this family. I loved all the intrigue surrounding the other children and the epilogue at the end has me excitedly awaiting the next book in the series.
I absolutely loved the Rotten Love Duet and could not have been more excited about getting Selene, Vincent, Gio, and Dom's children's stories.
We get to meet all the kids in this book, but the first story to be told is their eldest son's, Jude. He should be the heir to his father's Italian mafia, but one big hurdle stands in his way, his mother, the Red Queen herself. Jude though is determined to obtain his birthright, no matter the cost.
Mina is the London Mafia Princess and supposed heir to her own throne, but alas misogyny is alive and well in the mafia world and Mina will have to be the best of the best to get her crown.
This was such a terrific book. I love the way Jude and Mina's relationship evolves. I loved their chemistry and all the angst. The action, the intrigue, the secrets, the lies, the deceit, the banter, the wit, the emotional moments, and the family drama make this book a real page turner.
The writing, pace, flow, and plot of this story are excellent as are the characters, storyline, storytelling, character development, relationship development, and world building.
I am officially addicted to this family. I loved all the intrigue surrounding the other children and the epilogue at the end has me excitedly awaiting the next book in the series.
February 28, 2025
Dark Mafia Romance ✅
Touch Her and Die ✅
Small Age Gap ✅
Strong FMC ✅
Man Obsessed MMC ✅
This is the first book in a new series called The Next Vicious Generation!! This is interconnected within another series but can be read as standalones.
This is a spin off from a duet called Rotten Love and it's the start of those characters' children from that duet and we start off with Jude in this one. We meet all the kids in this book but I'm presuming they'll all get their own books. Jude is heir to his father's Italian Mafia, but his mother aka The Red Queen stands in his way and is determined to stop him from his birthright.
Mina is the London Mafia princess and supposed heir to her throne, but the London Mafia are known as misogynistic idiots and feel a woman can't run the Mafia world. Jude feels like he's getting nowhere at home with his parents so at 19 he decides to come to the UK to study when really he's been taken under the wings of none other than Mina's father to be taught the ways of being a Mafia boss. I loved the relationship between Jude and Mina!! I loved their chemistry and the banter they have together plus all the angst at the beginning.....yes it's slow burn but when these two come together oof wow!!! What will happen when Jude wants to go back home to Chicago? Will he leave Mina behind? Or will she go with him? Will he choose love or loyalty?
I loved the family throughout this and can't wait to read more , I'll definitely be going back to read the Rotten Love Duet.
Touch Her and Die ✅
Small Age Gap ✅
Strong FMC ✅
Man Obsessed MMC ✅
This is the first book in a new series called The Next Vicious Generation!! This is interconnected within another series but can be read as standalones.
This is a spin off from a duet called Rotten Love and it's the start of those characters' children from that duet and we start off with Jude in this one. We meet all the kids in this book but I'm presuming they'll all get their own books. Jude is heir to his father's Italian Mafia, but his mother aka The Red Queen stands in his way and is determined to stop him from his birthright.
Mina is the London Mafia princess and supposed heir to her throne, but the London Mafia are known as misogynistic idiots and feel a woman can't run the Mafia world. Jude feels like he's getting nowhere at home with his parents so at 19 he decides to come to the UK to study when really he's been taken under the wings of none other than Mina's father to be taught the ways of being a Mafia boss. I loved the relationship between Jude and Mina!! I loved their chemistry and the banter they have together plus all the angst at the beginning.....yes it's slow burn but when these two come together oof wow!!! What will happen when Jude wants to go back home to Chicago? Will he leave Mina behind? Or will she go with him? Will he choose love or loyalty?
I loved the family throughout this and can't wait to read more , I'll definitely be going back to read the Rotten Love Duet.
February 28, 2025
Vicious Addictions is a big, mafia family novel filled with lots of great characters that center around two main characters, Mina Crane and Jude Romano. It’s the perfect amount of angst an dark that hit just right.
While studying abroad, Jude seeks out Victor Crane, the head of The Firm in London, when its been made clear that his own father won't allow him to step into his own birthright of The Outfit in America and becoming a made man. Victor appreciates the young gusto and brings Jude on board, but what's more intriguing is that while learning the ropes of the business Jude also befriends Victors daughter, Mina, his only heir. It was never malicious, or with ill intent, their friendship happened organically and it's only when she turned eighteen that things got messy.
Mina had an infatuation on Jude for quite some time. The longer he spent time in her home the worse it became. Jude is a frustrating mix of right and wrong, sweet and dark, and Mina didn't know how to separate the two. When she realizes that she is in love with him, but he doesn’t feel the same, everything in her life changes, and his does too.
How does one choose; love or loyalty? Birthright or romance? You can't have both, at least not in Jude's eyes and unfortunately his choice doesn't make their lives any easier.
Filled with turmoil, second chances, hope, longing, and lots and lots of family, Vicious Addictions is an angsty read.
While studying abroad, Jude seeks out Victor Crane, the head of The Firm in London, when its been made clear that his own father won't allow him to step into his own birthright of The Outfit in America and becoming a made man. Victor appreciates the young gusto and brings Jude on board, but what's more intriguing is that while learning the ropes of the business Jude also befriends Victors daughter, Mina, his only heir. It was never malicious, or with ill intent, their friendship happened organically and it's only when she turned eighteen that things got messy.
Mina had an infatuation on Jude for quite some time. The longer he spent time in her home the worse it became. Jude is a frustrating mix of right and wrong, sweet and dark, and Mina didn't know how to separate the two. When she realizes that she is in love with him, but he doesn’t feel the same, everything in her life changes, and his does too.
How does one choose; love or loyalty? Birthright or romance? You can't have both, at least not in Jude's eyes and unfortunately his choice doesn't make their lives any easier.
Filled with turmoil, second chances, hope, longing, and lots and lots of family, Vicious Addictions is an angsty read.
September 8, 2025
Something Didn't Click For Me.
Overall: 3 ⭐
Plot: 3📍
Spice: 3 🔥
Don't get me wrong, I love a good girl boss FMC. But not when it's at the expense of her MMC. And I felt like that's what this book did.
The ultimate betrayal at the end of the book seemed cruel, unnecessary, and merciless and not really anything other than setting up additional sympathy for the MMC. However, it just lowered the MMC in my mind with how he responded. Maybe it was meant to reinforce the "why" behind said betrayal (I can't say too much more without giving away the story, so I apologize for being vague.)
And again, I adore a good Kick-A FMC! But Mina's rise feels like it comes out of no where. It feels disingenuous.
I adore Ivy Fox’s stories - 95% of the time. This one didn’t quite hit right for me. I can’t put my finger on the “why” but it fell short of my personal expectations of the quality of writing I usually know I’m going to get from her. Her Puckered Hearts series has me SOBBING with the emotion-aspect of the character arcs and I just didn’t get that from this one.
Regardless, if you’re still looking for a not-quite-dark-enough for TWs mafia-centric love story, this is still a winner.
Thank you to Ms Ivy Fox & Wordsmith Publicity for the opportunity to read and review this book!
All opinions are my own.
Overall: 3 ⭐
Plot: 3📍
Spice: 3 🔥
Don't get me wrong, I love a good girl boss FMC. But not when it's at the expense of her MMC. And I felt like that's what this book did.
The ultimate betrayal at the end of the book seemed cruel, unnecessary, and merciless and not really anything other than setting up additional sympathy for the MMC. However, it just lowered the MMC in my mind with how he responded. Maybe it was meant to reinforce the "why" behind said betrayal (I can't say too much more without giving away the story, so I apologize for being vague.)
And again, I adore a good Kick-A FMC! But Mina's rise feels like it comes out of no where. It feels disingenuous.
I adore Ivy Fox’s stories - 95% of the time. This one didn’t quite hit right for me. I can’t put my finger on the “why” but it fell short of my personal expectations of the quality of writing I usually know I’m going to get from her. Her Puckered Hearts series has me SOBBING with the emotion-aspect of the character arcs and I just didn’t get that from this one.
Regardless, if you’re still looking for a not-quite-dark-enough for TWs mafia-centric love story, this is still a winner.
Thank you to Ms Ivy Fox & Wordsmith Publicity for the opportunity to read and review this book!
All opinions are my own.
February 28, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the first book in a Mafia series, The Next Vicious Generation. This is the story of Jude and Mina. He is known all over Chicago. Everyone knows and fears Jude Romano. He is the eldest son of the Romano clan. He will be the air to the Outfit one day. The man is all about the power and control and you don't survive in this world without loyalty. He doesn't do love as all love is a weakness that he can't afford. He has seen way too many men fall for that trap. However, no one is immune to love. Even the King's of the mountain can fall. He just didn't see Mina coming. She is the only one that he would give up everything for. This book is really good. I devoured this book actually. There is never a dull moment in this book. From the get go this story draws you in and it plays like a little movie in your head. But most of all will Jude be able to get the girl and keep his empire or will he lose absolutely everything?
Like I said this book is amazing. You will not lay it down once you get on this roller coaster ride of emotions. I loved these characters and while there story if not easy it is so worth reading.Buckle up it is a bout to be a very bumpy ride.
This is the first book in a Mafia series, The Next Vicious Generation. This is the story of Jude and Mina. He is known all over Chicago. Everyone knows and fears Jude Romano. He is the eldest son of the Romano clan. He will be the air to the Outfit one day. The man is all about the power and control and you don't survive in this world without loyalty. He doesn't do love as all love is a weakness that he can't afford. He has seen way too many men fall for that trap. However, no one is immune to love. Even the King's of the mountain can fall. He just didn't see Mina coming. She is the only one that he would give up everything for. This book is really good. I devoured this book actually. There is never a dull moment in this book. From the get go this story draws you in and it plays like a little movie in your head. But most of all will Jude be able to get the girl and keep his empire or will he lose absolutely everything?
Like I said this book is amazing. You will not lay it down once you get on this roller coaster ride of emotions. I loved these characters and while there story if not easy it is so worth reading.Buckle up it is a bout to be a very bumpy ride.
February 28, 2025
No one prepares you for this one. Ivy Fox has started a new series and we are off to the races with this one. Jude first son of a Chicago crime family, moves to London to be mentored by the head of the London crime family. Judes family wants him and all their other children away from this life, but Jude wants his birthright.
In London, Jude meets Mina the Mafia princess. She is young(16) and he is 19. Over the course of the many years that Jude spends in London they form a friendship that eventually leads to more. I loved the way this relationship grew and changed over time. There is PLENTY of angst here, and just enough spice. Jude must choose between family and love. Will he get everything he's ever dreamed of and lose the love he has found or is there a way he can have it all? The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat and I was turning pages to eagerly find out what happened to Jude, Mina and the rest of the Chicago and London families.
This was a great kick off to a new series and I am so excited to see what happens in book 2. I can’t wait to see which Romano sibling gets the next story. The epilogue dropped a hint and left me hanging on the precipice.
In London, Jude meets Mina the Mafia princess. She is young(16) and he is 19. Over the course of the many years that Jude spends in London they form a friendship that eventually leads to more. I loved the way this relationship grew and changed over time. There is PLENTY of angst here, and just enough spice. Jude must choose between family and love. Will he get everything he's ever dreamed of and lose the love he has found or is there a way he can have it all? The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat and I was turning pages to eagerly find out what happened to Jude, Mina and the rest of the Chicago and London families.
This was a great kick off to a new series and I am so excited to see what happens in book 2. I can’t wait to see which Romano sibling gets the next story. The epilogue dropped a hint and left me hanging on the precipice.
March 8, 2025
This book was incredible!! 🙌 I thoroughly enjoyed it from beginning to end!
If I’m being completely honest, I was a little hesitant to start this one, because I haven’t read the Rotten Love duet yet and I was worried I’d be missing out on some of the backstory needed for this one. But I’m so happy to say that I didn’t feel like I missed out on anything by not reading that duet first and all of my questions were eventually answered by the end of this book. (It does make me want to go back and read it though! Haha)
I love Jude and Mina! I love how their story was told over several years and we got to witness their relationship grow and evolve until they inevitably ended up together! It was frustrating waiting for Jude to finally admit and express his feelings for Mina, but dang! When he eventually, FINALLY, made the grand gesture, I was bawling! Haha Tears were streaming down my face but I was smiling ear to ear! (What can I say, I’m a sappy romantic at heart lol.)
I was already invested in the Romano family but after that bonus epilogue I’m beyond excited to continue this journey with them! I NEED to know what happens next and I can’t wait to read to the stories of each of the other siblings!
If I’m being completely honest, I was a little hesitant to start this one, because I haven’t read the Rotten Love duet yet and I was worried I’d be missing out on some of the backstory needed for this one. But I’m so happy to say that I didn’t feel like I missed out on anything by not reading that duet first and all of my questions were eventually answered by the end of this book. (It does make me want to go back and read it though! Haha)
I love Jude and Mina! I love how their story was told over several years and we got to witness their relationship grow and evolve until they inevitably ended up together! It was frustrating waiting for Jude to finally admit and express his feelings for Mina, but dang! When he eventually, FINALLY, made the grand gesture, I was bawling! Haha Tears were streaming down my face but I was smiling ear to ear! (What can I say, I’m a sappy romantic at heart lol.)
I was already invested in the Romano family but after that bonus epilogue I’m beyond excited to continue this journey with them! I NEED to know what happens next and I can’t wait to read to the stories of each of the other siblings!
September 23, 2025
Let's get busy, and please, do not interrupt me because I have a new book from Ivy Fox, and I will hurt someone if I'm interrupted. Lol
These were my thoughts when this new book arrived.
The queen of Mafia has a new series, and dayum, I couldn't control my happiness.
Vicious Additions is her latest release, and it's the first book from The Next Vicious Generation series.
This book explores the lives of Jude and Mina.
Jude knows what's expected of him because being the heir to the Outfit Crime Syndicate has its weight and responsibility.
His focus is on Power, loyalty, and control.
As for Love... not in the cards for him, or so he thought.
Mina is no stranger to power or family loyalty. When she let her love go, she didn't think she would cross his path again, but...
Dayum, this book was explosive, that's for sure.
These two are perfect for each other, and despite the distance that separates them...
I love a strong female character, and Mina is super strong and wants to be the next leader.
It's not easy in a world controlled by men, but she's fearless and doesn't take shit from anyone.
And Jude, oh boy, that man is a hunk.
I adored the entire story, and I wanted more and more.
Amazing Ivy. Please, don't take too long to give us the next book from this series.
These were my thoughts when this new book arrived.
The queen of Mafia has a new series, and dayum, I couldn't control my happiness.
Vicious Additions is her latest release, and it's the first book from The Next Vicious Generation series.
This book explores the lives of Jude and Mina.
Jude knows what's expected of him because being the heir to the Outfit Crime Syndicate has its weight and responsibility.
His focus is on Power, loyalty, and control.
As for Love... not in the cards for him, or so he thought.
Mina is no stranger to power or family loyalty. When she let her love go, she didn't think she would cross his path again, but...
Dayum, this book was explosive, that's for sure.
These two are perfect for each other, and despite the distance that separates them...
I love a strong female character, and Mina is super strong and wants to be the next leader.
It's not easy in a world controlled by men, but she's fearless and doesn't take shit from anyone.
And Jude, oh boy, that man is a hunk.
I adored the entire story, and I wanted more and more.
Amazing Ivy. Please, don't take too long to give us the next book from this series.
March 1, 2025
The first book in the new series by Ivy Fox. Vicious addiction is a mafia romance that I found myself not being able to put down. Coming from different mafia families. First we meet our MMC Jude. Justice he’s arriving to London in the rules of going to school. Realistically, he’s going to meet Victor Crane the head of the firm. And he wants to learn how to be a made man. Crashing a 16-year-old‘s birthday party he meets our FMC, Mina. This is Victor’s daughter. During the beginning of this book, you see them age and become friends.
It was very nice seeing their friendship grow. And the motivations that brought Jude to London in the first place. I found that in the beginning while I really was curious to know how their relationship was going to grow. I got more invested in the story as they aged up. That’s really when for me personally the book picked up a lot.
There’s so much I like about this book, but I really can’t say anymore without spoiling it, and I refuse to put spoilers! Just know that I can’t wait for the next one to be written. Because in the second epilogue, Ivy Fox gives us a taste of what the next book is about!!
It was very nice seeing their friendship grow. And the motivations that brought Jude to London in the first place. I found that in the beginning while I really was curious to know how their relationship was going to grow. I got more invested in the story as they aged up. That’s really when for me personally the book picked up a lot.
There’s so much I like about this book, but I really can’t say anymore without spoiling it, and I refuse to put spoilers! Just know that I can’t wait for the next one to be written. Because in the second epilogue, Ivy Fox gives us a taste of what the next book is about!!
March 4, 2025
I'm a fan of Ivy Fox and enjoyed this new Mafia romance that was split between London and Chicago and two key families, the Cranes and the Romanos. Mina and Jude meet when they're still very young, Miller is just 16, Jude around 19 or 20, and you see their relationship develop over several years, so it has the initial intensity of young love, followed by the power of a second chance.
For a mafia romance, it was not exceptionally dark, and, in fact, I often found myself chuckling at some of the humour, especially the Crane twins, Mina's cousins, who are pretty funny and totally chaotic. I particularly loved their use of some choice British slang and swearing, which is so rarely seen in romance books!
I would have liked to have seen more opportunities for Mina to demonstrate her prowess and leadership of the Firm, especially as she was the first woman to have done so. This felt like a huge factor in the book that then petered out.
But the second epilogue set up a captivating next book that I can't wait to find out what happens next with another member of the Romano family.
Thanks to Wordsmith PR and Ivy Fox for the ARC, this is my honest opinion.
For a mafia romance, it was not exceptionally dark, and, in fact, I often found myself chuckling at some of the humour, especially the Crane twins, Mina's cousins, who are pretty funny and totally chaotic. I particularly loved their use of some choice British slang and swearing, which is so rarely seen in romance books!
I would have liked to have seen more opportunities for Mina to demonstrate her prowess and leadership of the Firm, especially as she was the first woman to have done so. This felt like a huge factor in the book that then petered out.
But the second epilogue set up a captivating next book that I can't wait to find out what happens next with another member of the Romano family.
Thanks to Wordsmith PR and Ivy Fox for the ARC, this is my honest opinion.
March 8, 2025
💀 2 Mafia Heirs. Forbidden Love. Power vs. Passion. 🔥💀 5 OBSESSED STARS 💀🔥
💣 OH. MY. GOD. 💣 I was NOT ready for the level of obsession this book would unleash in me! 😱🔥 I hadn’t read the prior Rotten Love Duet, where the parents (hello, Reverse Harem 👀) had these wild, chaotic children, but now?? I’m obsessed and absolutely HAVE to dive into that world. The Red Queen? The Romano legacy? I need it all! 🤯
Jude Adamo Romano—his name alone drips power. Heir to the Outfit crime syndicate, bound by duty, loyalty, and the ever-present darkness of his legacy. Love? A weakness. 💔 But then comes Mina Crane—the only woman who ever made him question everything, the one person who could shake his unyielding control. And damn… does she ever. Their chemistry? EXPLOSIVE. 🔥 Their love? Forbidden. 🖤 Their struggle? Gut-wrenching. 😭
UGH! 😩💔 The tension, the revenge, the drama, the impossible choices—it all had me flipping pages at breakneck speed. And that ending?! Wrecked me. 😭
This new generation of Romanos is off the chain, and I cannot WAIT to watch them all get dragged down by love in the upcoming books. I am READY! 😈🖤
💣 OH. MY. GOD. 💣 I was NOT ready for the level of obsession this book would unleash in me! 😱🔥 I hadn’t read the prior Rotten Love Duet, where the parents (hello, Reverse Harem 👀) had these wild, chaotic children, but now?? I’m obsessed and absolutely HAVE to dive into that world. The Red Queen? The Romano legacy? I need it all! 🤯
Jude Adamo Romano—his name alone drips power. Heir to the Outfit crime syndicate, bound by duty, loyalty, and the ever-present darkness of his legacy. Love? A weakness. 💔 But then comes Mina Crane—the only woman who ever made him question everything, the one person who could shake his unyielding control. And damn… does she ever. Their chemistry? EXPLOSIVE. 🔥 Their love? Forbidden. 🖤 Their struggle? Gut-wrenching. 😭
UGH! 😩💔 The tension, the revenge, the drama, the impossible choices—it all had me flipping pages at breakneck speed. And that ending?! Wrecked me. 😭
This new generation of Romanos is off the chain, and I cannot WAIT to watch them all get dragged down by love in the upcoming books. I am READY! 😈🖤
April 21, 2025
I went into this book blind and have not read the first generation book.
Mina and Jude are Mafia heirs!
They both are fighting for their right and will not let anyone stop them.
Jude runs to England to begin training to be a Made Man despite his parents being against him joining.
This lands him with The Firm, run by the Cranes.
While staying there, he builds a friendship with Mina, the Mafia Princess.
Both of them want to be part of their family business and need to prove to their family that they are worthy.
I loved Mina, she is strong, ambitious, loyal and a leader. She has all the qualities to be in charge, and she is a fighter.
I loved that she never gave up and did not let social pressures stop her from doing what she wanted.
Jude is compassionate, caring, strong, protective and loves his family. He wants to join the family business and protect the people he cares for.
He is a sweet character, but I hated the fact that he did not fight for Mina and put his ambitions before her.
The reason why I am giving this book 4/5 is that I loved the side characters; they pushed the story forward and were very entertaining.
Mina and Jude are Mafia heirs!
They both are fighting for their right and will not let anyone stop them.
Jude runs to England to begin training to be a Made Man despite his parents being against him joining.
This lands him with The Firm, run by the Cranes.
While staying there, he builds a friendship with Mina, the Mafia Princess.
Both of them want to be part of their family business and need to prove to their family that they are worthy.
I loved Mina, she is strong, ambitious, loyal and a leader. She has all the qualities to be in charge, and she is a fighter.
I loved that she never gave up and did not let social pressures stop her from doing what she wanted.
Jude is compassionate, caring, strong, protective and loves his family. He wants to join the family business and protect the people he cares for.
He is a sweet character, but I hated the fact that he did not fight for Mina and put his ambitions before her.
The reason why I am giving this book 4/5 is that I loved the side characters; they pushed the story forward and were very entertaining.
February 27, 2025
I think this is a great intro to dark romance. Definitely not the darkest I’ve read, but a good intro for those trying to test the waters.
Jude and Mina’s story has many ups and downs. They’re bound to their families and struggle through the boundaries of maintaining each other and their friendship that’s quickly turning into more, and taking their birthright in the family business.
We start when Mina is young, just 16, and Jude is 19. We get 4 years of them learning to navigate the life they were born to partake in, and the strong feelings they develop for each other.
The first half of the book had me struggling to be sucked in, and then the second half went so fast and had my attention to its peak.
The romance is good, and there is some spice, but I’d rate it at about 1.5 chili peppers. I’m a sucker for a second chance romance and this one turned out to be so good!
The twist at the end had me audibly gasping and now has me on pins and needles as I wait for the second book to come out!
Jude and Mina’s story has many ups and downs. They’re bound to their families and struggle through the boundaries of maintaining each other and their friendship that’s quickly turning into more, and taking their birthright in the family business.
We start when Mina is young, just 16, and Jude is 19. We get 4 years of them learning to navigate the life they were born to partake in, and the strong feelings they develop for each other.
The first half of the book had me struggling to be sucked in, and then the second half went so fast and had my attention to its peak.
The romance is good, and there is some spice, but I’d rate it at about 1.5 chili peppers. I’m a sucker for a second chance romance and this one turned out to be so good!
The twist at the end had me audibly gasping and now has me on pins and needles as I wait for the second book to come out!
February 28, 2025
Vicious Addictions ( The Next Vicious Generation Book 1 ) 🔥Forbidden Romance 🔥Dark Mafia Romance 🔥Touch her and Die Vibes 🔥Boy Obsessed 🔥Srong Heroine 🔥Age Gap 🔥Revenge , Drama and Lies !!! Omg what an emotional rollercoaster that just sucks you right in and does not let go . I mean that’s the only way I can really describe this absolutely amazing story . Because the ride that I was just taken on , all the feelings I was reeling with is pretty much impossible to put into words. Jude and Mina oh how they had my heart from page one , the way I found myself devouring every single word to the point I actually lost track of time ; looked up and it was 4 am in the morning. All the sleep I lost ( may of left me like the walking dead but man was it worth it . Mina and Jude’s love story is anything but easy , it’s certainly not all hearts and flowers . It’s complex , it’s dark , raw , gritty and heartbreaking at times . But there are also moments you’ll smile , you’ll laugh and you’ll absolutely be cheering from start to finish .
February 28, 2025
Rating: 4.5 rounded to 5 stars
I'm new to this author and hadn't read the Rotten Love Duet, so it took me a minute to wrap my head around the Romano family dynamic, but once I figured it out - I loved Vicious Addictions.
It's a perfect mafia romance without the romance part being too dark. The mafia part is not sugar-coated, you get the gore, the deals and the rivalry. And let's not forget about Mina and Jude being the eldest children of their families. Will they be the heirs? And how will their way towards being together look like? Definitely not a walk in a park. It's an angsty, slow burn romance with some miscommunication on both parts.
I loved how the story was shown over the years and how the reader get to see both of the characters grow up and become their adult selves.
And the ending of this book, got me hooked and waiting (im)patiently for the next book in the series - the story of the next Romano sibling.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I'm new to this author and hadn't read the Rotten Love Duet, so it took me a minute to wrap my head around the Romano family dynamic, but once I figured it out - I loved Vicious Addictions.
It's a perfect mafia romance without the romance part being too dark. The mafia part is not sugar-coated, you get the gore, the deals and the rivalry. And let's not forget about Mina and Jude being the eldest children of their families. Will they be the heirs? And how will their way towards being together look like? Definitely not a walk in a park. It's an angsty, slow burn romance with some miscommunication on both parts.
I loved how the story was shown over the years and how the reader get to see both of the characters grow up and become their adult selves.
And the ending of this book, got me hooked and waiting (im)patiently for the next book in the series - the story of the next Romano sibling.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
March 1, 2025
I’m thrilled for the beginning of this next gen series! We finally get to see the children of the Rotten Love characters all grown up, and Jude’s up first. The story finds him heading off to London seeking out Victor Crane, the head of The Firm. Jude wants to take his rightful place in The Outfit, but his father is dragging his feet and his mother doesn’t want him anywhere near his legacy. Victor is willing to take on the role of mentoring Jude, which means Jude spends lots of time with Mina, Victor’s daughter and heir to his throne. Mina’s crush on Jude was near instantaneous, while Jude’s feelings are more slow developing, but what does it mean when two strong-willed people are caught between lives filled with loyalty and duty? Jude’s love for his family shines throughout this book, but his support for Mina and her place within The Firm never wavers. Mina dedicates herself to leading The Firm, but her heart remains true. This one is passionate and a little angsty, leaving you excited for the next release. I also hope to see Mina’s entertaining cousins pop up again…
March 1, 2025
Action-packed dark mafia romance with tropes like forbidden romance, second chance and first love.
The book starts when the main characters meet at 16 and 19 and continues to follow them over multiple years. I liked how the relationship between Mina and Jude developed throughout the years, starting as a friendship but slowly developing into more.
Mina and Jude’s story went through many ups and downs over the years, but at the end they got the ending they deserved.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
“Why be raised with a sense of right and wrong when your entire life is built on only doing the wrong thing?”
“You make marriage sound like a prison sentence.”
“You think you’re the only man in my life? If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were jealous.”
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
The book starts when the main characters meet at 16 and 19 and continues to follow them over multiple years. I liked how the relationship between Mina and Jude developed throughout the years, starting as a friendship but slowly developing into more.
Mina and Jude’s story went through many ups and downs over the years, but at the end they got the ending they deserved.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
“Why be raised with a sense of right and wrong when your entire life is built on only doing the wrong thing?”
“You make marriage sound like a prison sentence.”
“You think you’re the only man in my life? If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were jealous.”
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
March 3, 2025
I loved Jude and Mina's story. Jude goes to England to study and visits Mina's father to get him to show him the mafia's ways since his father refuses to induct him into the family. Jude is 18, and Mina is only 16, and no matter how much he wants her, he knows he can't until she is eighteen. We follow Mina and Jude through the years as they fall in love, and Jude is given a tough decision in his life. He is summoned back to Chicago by his father and is caught between love and family honor. In Mina's eyes, he has made the wrong decision. He is never to come back and look for her again. Ivy keeps you turning the pages with all the twists and turns you don't see coming. We get Jude and Mina's ending but it ends on a sort of cliffhanger to lead us into what will happen in Boo Two of this series.
I received an arc for my voluntary, honest review for NN Book Blog. You will love this book if you love a mafia romance with angst, twists, and turns to keep you turning the pages.
I received an arc for my voluntary, honest review for NN Book Blog. You will love this book if you love a mafia romance with angst, twists, and turns to keep you turning the pages.
March 11, 2025
I enjoyed Jude and Mina's story for the most part. I loved that it started out with them young. You get to see how they met and how the friendship/relationship developed over time. That was about the first half of the book though. It could've been shortened a little bit as some parts seemed to drag on. Once they reach adulthood is when things really start taking off in the story. There's drama, chaos, violence, family, love, betrayal, misunderstandings, chemistry, and so much more. What I really hated was the treatment of Jude by his father after he came back from London. It really was a slap in the face and a gut punch, but sadly I saw it coming and so did Mina. He's a much better son that I could be. Although it's mafia book, there are some feel good moments in here too that really balance out the dynamics. Plus, the teaser at the end was one of the best I've read in a while. I definitely can't wait to see how the series unfolds. Good read!
March 3, 2025
Jude has always wanted to claim control of his family’s mafia business, but when that doesn’t happen, he heads to England to attend college and ends up being groomed for the English mafia. It is through this alliance that he meets Mina, and we see their relationship evolve over time until loyalties to their families separate them.
Mina has also wanted to claim control of her family’s mafia business but being a female is her biggest impediment. When Jude comes into her life rather than then becoming adversaries a relationship develops but they may be forced to choose between their families and love.
Jude and Mina take us on a journey filled with family, drama and angst that will not only have you invested in Jude and Mina’s family but to know what the other siblings have in store for them as well.
Mina has also wanted to claim control of her family’s mafia business but being a female is her biggest impediment. When Jude comes into her life rather than then becoming adversaries a relationship develops but they may be forced to choose between their families and love.
Jude and Mina take us on a journey filled with family, drama and angst that will not only have you invested in Jude and Mina’s family but to know what the other siblings have in store for them as well.
March 10, 2025
Ivy has done it again with this amazing start to a new series. I think that this may have the potential to be a favorite. I mean who does not like a good crime family read. I know I do.
Vicious Addictions follows Jude, the first son of a Chicago crime family. While in London, he meets Mina, who is a mafia princess. Naturally they form a friendship, which over time develops into something else. The building of their friendship and then more was just so addicting. I needed to know what was going to happen next for them. With some angst and some spice. There is a choice for Jude, and I felt so bad for him. Do you choose your family or do you choose love for yourself?
What a great start to a new series, and I really need to find out what happens in book two and who it will be about.
Vicious Addictions follows Jude, the first son of a Chicago crime family. While in London, he meets Mina, who is a mafia princess. Naturally they form a friendship, which over time develops into something else. The building of their friendship and then more was just so addicting. I needed to know what was going to happen next for them. With some angst and some spice. There is a choice for Jude, and I felt so bad for him. Do you choose your family or do you choose love for yourself?
What a great start to a new series, and I really need to find out what happens in book two and who it will be about.
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