Illicit Obsession

King of Ruin #2

by Julia Sykes

My enemies tried to take her from me. They won’t live long enough to regret it.

I’ll do anything to keep Evelyn, and nothing will separate us: not my enemies, and not her stubborn will.

I’ll kill any man who threatens her.

I’ll keep her so drunk on pleasure that she’ll be addicted to my touch.

She says she wants to go back home to America, but her home is with me now.

She will learn to love the gilded cage I’ll build for her, and she’ll be just as desperate for me as I am for her.

Evelyn doesn’t have a choice: she belongs to me, now and forever.

Genres: Mafia Romance, Dark Romance, Dark, BDSM, Contemporary Romance, He Falls First, Forced Proximity

202 pages, Paperback

First published May 30, 2024

About the author

Julia Sykes is a USA Today bestselling author of edgy, emotional romance. When she's not writing, she's usually reading.

Other than reading, her obsessions include iced coffee, unicorns, charcuterie, aged Manchego cheese (or any cheese, really), and fancy dresses.

An American expat, Julia now lives in her adopted, beloved home of York, England. Most days, you can find her wandering the cobbled streets and daydreaming about her next novel.

Reviews

[Kealyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Illicit Obsession by Julia Sykes

4/5 stars

Illicit Obsession picks up right of where Tainted Obsession left off. Massimo wakes up in the car after the car crash and hears Evelyn screaming his name. He is disorientated but pulls himself back together and goes after her and saves her. 

This book is also about what they each want out of this relationship. It's about cementing their sexual and emotional relationship.

I also liked the flashback into Massimo's childhood. And how he lost his parents. My heart broke for him. But it also explains why he is the way he is. And it explains how fierce he loves those closest to him. 

I love how he genuinely takes care of Evelyn and he wants her to become the best version of herself. 

Though this book is still very enjoyable and the love scenes are very hot. I did miss the addictiveness of the first book. For some reason I didn't feel the vibe the first book had. It's also a very short book, so maybe plays into it as well. 
I just wish more happened in this book, that it was longer. I know it's a trilogy. But I think it would've worked better if it was one book. 
It also ends how it started. I wished it differentiated a bit more. 

But all in all it was still a fantastic book and I did love it! So 4 huge stars from me for this beauty. 

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Illicit Obsession picks up right of where Tainted Obsession left off. This novella focused on their sexual and emotional connection. I also liked the flashbacks into Massimo's childhood, how he lost his parents. My heart broke for him. But it also explains why he is the way he is. He will do anything to save her, protect her, and keep her HIS! Massimo will burn the world down for Evelyn. Touch, her & d vibes! Ending on another cliffhanger. This trilogy easily could have been a duet. Last book, let's go.

[EpicRomanceReviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

❤~🌟~❤4 HEADY STARS  ❤~🌟~❤

I really enjoyed part two of Massimo and Evelyn’s journey together. ILLICIT OBSESSION had it all—rapturous romance, high octane suspense and subterfuge and lots and lots of titillating sex. Perhaps too much of the latter at times if I’m being honest!

But Massimo’s obsessive love for his beleaguered captive turned sweetly submissive paramour was undeniably intoxicating. This feral dark protector gives new definition to the j/p antihero! Even though his controlling dominance over Evelyn was borderline cray cray, there was no denying how much he worshipped his “farfallina” and would protect her to his last dying breath. He truly lived to spoil and pamper, protect and possess his precious butterfly and I admittedly melted over this sinfully delicious mobster throughout!

I loved how Julia Sykes dug deeper into these MC’s psyches as we got more glimpses into their tragic pasts which tethered them together in ways that went beyond carnal lust. And I also found it compelling how rather than just embracing Massimo’s criminal life, Evelyn struggled with accepting that part of him and her internal battle between right and wrong, love and righteousness was something she wrestled with throughout. Because being claimed by a dangerous men like Massimo came at a very high cost! While fragile and a bit meek on the surface, as it turns out, Evelyn has a fiery independent streak and a backbone of steel.

As with book one, a highlight for me was the cameos from past characters including Mafia Queen Carmen and the pissing contest between mobster baddies Stefani and Adrian was oh so wickedly entertaining! Couldn’t get enough of those two lethally sexy egomaniacs!

Since there is one book left in the King of Ruin trilogy, prepare for another explosive cliffy that will have you clamoring for the highly anticipated conclusion.ENDLESS OBSESSION can’t get here soon enough!

[Heather Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Illicit Obsession picks up right of where Tainted Obsession left off.

Massimo wakes up in the car after the car crash and hears Evelyn screaming his name. He is disorientated but pulls himself back together and goes after her and saves her. Massimo is bleeding, but he sees that Evelyn is unconscious and is more worried about her than himself. They rush out of the way of the attack and head to a safe house. The Dr. clears them both.

Evelyn is still trying to get home to America.


This is a short book. Almost felt like a short novella.

I did receive a free ARC Copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest review.

[Stacey's Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️

The sequel to Tainted Obsession is here! We dive right back in where we left off with Evelyn && Massimo. He will do anything to save her, protect her, and keep her HIS! Massimo will burn the world down for Evelyn 🥵

Touch her && d¡e vibes frfr! Nothing holds Massimo back in this book && I'm here for it!! Ending on another cliffhanger (not nice Julia 😥) I can't wait for the last installment of Massimo && Evelyn's story, coming next month!

[Jazmyne Janai · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 in this serious and I think I loved it more than the first one! Massimo is completely gone for Evelyn and would do absolutely anything to keep her and protect her! Evelyn is still a little naive to the world and trust maybe a little too easy, but with him it’s just different. I love how we get to see a bit of their past lives and see how they became who they are today!! Patiently waiting for June 27!!!

[Elisabeth (Norris' version) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series will end me...

[Claire Cronin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The 2nd book in this King of Ruin series, this one picks up right after the first so make sure you've read Tainted Obsession first.

Massimo and Evelyn are involved in a car crash staged by her ex to get her back, by whatever means necessary. Massimo wakes to hear her screams and ignoring his own injuries sets out to rescue her again, determined to keep her safe.

Massimo is not used to answering to anyone (apart from his boss) or explaining himself, which doesn't go too well for him in this book. We get some flashbacks to his childhood which goes a long way to explain why he is the way he is. He had tough decisions to make and did the best he could to survive - he regrets nothing he has done in his life, determined to make his life better for himself. As far as he is concerned Evelyn is his and he will do anything to protect her and keep her safe.

Evelyn is starting to care for Massimo, she can see how determined he is to look after her, but she is putty in his hands when he wants her - but she is quite naive in her worldly outlook and lets her emotions get the best of her, and makes some silly decisions.

There are some very hot and steamy scenes with some kinks / BDSM (rope, spanking, edging, praise) - and as much as I enjoyed this I found it to be quite short, I know it's a trilogy but this could probably have all been in one book. Again this ends on a cliffy like book one, which I found a bit repetitive, but I am looking forward to the last book in this trilogy to see how it ends.

[Judie · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back with Evelyn and Massimo in “Illicit Obsession” by Julia Sykes, and I could not be more excited. This is book two in the “king of Ruin” series and the book picks up right where we left off in “Tainted Obsession.” I am “obsessed” with this trilogy and book two is even better than book one.

Massimo wakes up dazed and confused after he hears Evelyn scream his name and realizes they have been ambushed and in a car wreck. Evelyn is being taken. Los Zetos is trying to return her to George, her former fiance and corrupt DEA agent. Massimo, ever the protector will not allow this to happen.

Massimo continues to grow even more obsessed with Evelyn. Evelyn is captivated by Massimo, but fears his dark and dangerous world and the people in it. When something happens to make her question what he really wants from her, she tries to run, only to be rescued again by Massimo. She realizes that she belongs to him and wouldn’t want it any other way.

The way Massimo supports her and her love of photography and art the way no one in her life ever has is what makes this story even more compelling. You get a glimpse into Massimo’s childhood and understand what made him the way he is. Evelyn realizes that his love and the gifts her showers on her are genuine and not tied to getting something from her.

This series has so many layers and I am here for it. The intrigue, danger, and spice make this an excellent and quick read. Please Julia, give us book three SOON!

[addictedtodarkromance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book by Julia!! This is book 2 of 3 in the King of Ruin series.

I really like how this book is heavier on the external conflict than between the MCs. There are def some challenges they face with their relationship but they are not long and drawn out with unnecessary drama.

Evelyn is introduced to what Massimo's job is really like (and I love that he doesn't hide it from her!!) but it does cause some issues between the two of them. This book allows us to see the growth in their relationship and their character. There is some suspense and action and things were very steamy in the spice department!!


Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat Intensity: 4 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Evelyn & Massimo
Nickname: Farfellina
Darkness: 2 out of 5 🖤🖤 - I didn't find the book all that dark but please do check any warnings as you may feel it is
Type of book: MF, Insta Lust, Trilogy, Duel POV
Reading Order: Books need to be read in order (This is book 2 of the trilogy)
Title: King of Ruin Series - Illicit Obsession- Book 2
Epilogue: Yes
Ending Type: Cliffhanger


*OTT Possessive, dominant & loyal H
*Eyes only for her
*Cartel
*Kidnapping/Captive
*Protector H
*No cheating or sharing between the MC's


Please check the TW/CW before reading! 18+

*I received an early copy of this book & voluntarily wrote a review

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

This is the second book in the King of Ruin series. You have to have read Tainted Obsession first. This one picks up right where it left off. So if you haven't read it you are going to be lost. Plus that book is really good and you don't want to miss it. We know that Massimo and Evelyn were in a car wreck. Her ex is behind it because he wants her back and he does not care how he does it. Can Massimo save her or is he to injured. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to find out what was going to happen. We really get to focus on Massimo in this book and see some of his past and childhood. He does not have an easy time in this book and you will see what I mean when you read it. He too has some really tough decision to make. After all Evelyn is his and no one is going to take her away from him. Evenlyn if falling for Massimo weather she wants to admit it or not. She sees him. The real him and can see that he is looking after her and she is puddy in his hands at times. She is naive though to a lot of things and the girl has to get her emotions under control because they really get the best of her at times. I just wanted to shake her a few times for the decision she was making. Now, we have to wait till the next book to find out how it all wraps up and ends.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful addition to series, Massimo and his Evelyn are facing a highly difficult time but are growing closer
This has been a simply wonderful addition to the series and I have enjoyed every moment of this book and I guarantee that you like me will be blown away by this amazing continuation to the circumstances Massimo and Evelyn have faced together.
After saving her from her so-called Fiancé who had been more than happy to allow her to lose her life when she was about to be shot, it had been Massimo that had come into assistance and then from that moment on she had been his “Beautiful Butterfly”.
Massimo has had to visit Columbia to arrange a deal with the drug cartel that will allow himself and his brothers to come into their own and for them to be able to take over their environment and see themselves finally unstoppable and Massimo planned on having his Evelyn at his side forever.
I guarantee that you will look forward to reading this wonderful book, the characters are simply wonderful and I guarantee that you will be totally captivated by this wonderful book.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.

[Tay · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely fell in love with the first book in the series: Tainted Obsession and was so excited to read the second.

Let me start with the one thing that I considered a con:

Evelyn's uncertainty about all things Massimo. Now this is pretty nitpicky of me but it just seemed like Evelyn really struggled to make her mind up which got to be a bit frustrating at times.

Pros:

Massimos is book boyfriend/husband/soul mate whatever you want to call it material. He just gets better and better.

Chemistry between the two MCs - you can really feel the heat between Evelyn and Massimo. 🔥 Some of the scenes made me feel like I really needed a fan.

Hard to put down - maybe this should be considered a con because I got COMPLETELY sucked into this book. I read it in one sitting because I just couldn't make myself put it down.

Another amazing read by Julia Sykes. I am already anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!!

[A.H. Monroe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Illicit Obsession picks up right where the previous book left off, and let me tell you, the first pages are absolutely thrilling—I knew right away I was going to love this one!

Evelyn and Massimo are even more explosive in this one. Evelyn remains sweet but her beliefs have changed, and Massimo is even more protective of her. We gain much more insight into his persona and understand why he is the way he is, which adds a deeper layer to the story.

Evelyn's views on the world have shifted. While she doesn't like Massimo's involvement in the dangerous mafia world, she feels safe with him. Her independence is incredibly important to her, and I was cheering her on the entire time.

Their journey together really solidifies their relationship, but the book ends on such a cliffhanger that I was left kind of angry—I need to know what happens next NOW!

* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Nickie Sale · Rating 5 out of 5]

We pick up right were the first book in this series left us and are once again plunged into Massimo and Evelyn's world. Massimo hears Evelyn's cries after the crash and will do anything to save and protect her. Each day, Massimo's obsession with Evelyn just gets more and more and more. Evelyn is a bit like fish out of water, she wants to go home to America but at the same time she wants to stay with Massimo.

Massimo's plan is to fill Evelyns life with every thing and every pleasure she could ever want. Evelyn doesn't want to be thrust into Massimos, dark and dangerous world. There's a whole world of steamy steamy action, coupled with really bad communication that leads you in a page turning second part to Massimo and Evelyn's journey, leaving you on another huge cliffy waiting for the final installment - please can I get it nowwww

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed a "ILLICIT OBSESSION" it hooked me right from the start so much tension, intrigue, suspense, angst, steam, violence, danger, twists that keeps you turning the pages.
Massimo's obsession with Evelyn grows deeper the more time their together sfter she'd been taken all he though about was getting her back but putting her a cage isn't the best way for her to accept his life around criminals.
Evelyn has her doubts about Massimo even if she say she wants be with him she's not sure she truly trusts him yet so much happens, you can't get enough of these two, will they get their HEA, need the next book ASAP "ENDLESS OBSESSION" to see where this all goes especially after that cliffhanger.
EXCELLENT RIVITING MAFIA ROMANCE I LOVED IT 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤

[Caroline Arnoux · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fall in love With book 1 and I fall in love with book 2 as well, damn Massimo and Evelyn are absolutely so cute together and so damn strong as a couple. I loved that we picks up right where we left off, that way I didn't feel lost or confused in ANY way! On the contrary I was so damn hyped for this second book and I'm so happy I got it.

The author did not disappointed at all. Massimo is really obsessed with Eve and at first she ran away after the accident but he's rescuing her again and then I think she finally understand she can't escape him and won't have any other way. Massimo is really intense and really in love with Evelyn and would do EVERYTHING to protect her, that's what I love about them.

Anyway this book was amazing so please give us book 3 😳❤️

[A. Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 2 and the continuation of Massimo and Evelyn's story. I didn't really expect the cliffhanger to be resolved so quickly. I thought it might be a problem that would continue throughout this book. Things don't go just smoothly for our couple. There are some misunderstandings and mistakes. I think the biggest thing though, Evelyn realizes that her relationship with George was just a fraud. We do get a lot of information on Massimo's past. It really explains who he is today. Be prepared this cliffhanger is even more shocking than the last. Julia Sykes, why so violent? Are you trying to kill these characters off 😉? Now the readers will have to wait for the next book for the resolution. This book was pretty short though at roughly 128 pages.

[Mom2three · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the King of Ruin series and the intensity still hasn't let up. Massimo is so dark and dangerous. He's also possessive. He's the epitome of the Anti-hero and I'm captivated by him. Evelyn is slowly losing her innocence, and not is a soft and gentle way. The world she finds herself is horrifying and any misstep could be her last. Luckily Mossimo is determined to keep any danger from touching her. I love that about him. I also love that she gentles him, slightly. Maybe together they can heal and find that HEA they both so desperately deserve.

I devoured this one. I'm loving the entire cast of characters, the sense of danger, the pace of the plot, and the high heat level. It has everything I love in a Mafia romance. I can't wait to get my hands on book 3.

[Victoria Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book two picks up immediately where book one's cliffhanger left us. Evelyn's ex may not care enough to protect her when she's threatened but he's clearly not ready to let her go either. But with Massimo as her constant dark protector, he's there to take on any challenge that threatens her.

Throughout the book their relationship builds and grows. Massimo is out to prove that he can provide for her every need while protecting and pleasing her. Evelyn continues to be pulled between her growing feelings for him and her distain for his violent criminal lifestyle. And her doubts might just put herself in more danger.

Their story isn't over yet so get ready for a new intense cliffhanger to set you up for the third and final book.

[Julie D (Audio and Book Jewels) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 of Evelyn and Massimo’s story is just as good and just and action packed as the first. I was anxious to read this one because of the way book one ended, and couldn’t wait to read more of the story.

Julia Sykes created characters that were interesting to read about. Evelyn is innocent and trusting. She trusts Massimo to keep her safe… until…. Well.. you need to read it. Massimo is not used to explaining himself or having someone he has to share what’s happening with and that leads to some misunderstandings that send Evelyn into a tail spin.. and leads her down a dangerous road.

All of the twists and turns of this make it such an excellent read and will keep your attention riveted to the story.

I loved reading both of these and can’t wait to read more.

[BookSpice_and_EverythingNice | Malika · Rating 4 out of 5]

My. HEART!

This story starts right at the cliffy of book 1. (You have to read these books in order)

Massimo continues to be the perfect book husband material. As she navigates how to keep Evelyn safe and convince her to choose to stay with him, Evelyn tries to figure out if her attraction and affection for Massimo is worth living her life in his deadly and dangerous life.

These two spill more about their pasts and continue to fight for a future together.

I ATE THIS STORY UP! The chemistry, the confessions, the action, the SPICE! Julia Sykes is wholly and truly making a fan out of me.

This book also ends on a wild cliffhanger, I believe book three is the conclusion and I CAN'T WAIT TO READ IT!

[Barbara Atkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is part of a three book series. The first two books end in a cliff hanger so the three books must be read in order to complete the story.
I love Massimo he is a fierce protector. He is part of the Italian Camorra who has a code of honor. He vows to not hurt innocent civilians. He is first introduced to Evelyn when she is taken prisoner and used as bait to lure her DEA fiancé to rescue her.
All is not as it seems and Massimo and Evelyn continue to cross paths. He becomes obsessed with her and will do everything in his power to make her his and to protect her.
This is a thrill ride of a story from the opening chapter. This one will keep you on the edge of your seat through out the entire series. There are lots of twists and turns, danger and secrets revealed.
Great series

[Kara Daigle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review

This is book 2 in the series and picked up exactly where book 1 left off!! I was so ready for this one to come out as the first book ended in a cliff hanger.

Illicit Obsession was so good and gave us even more details about the lives of Massimo and Evelyn before they met each other. I love getting the back stories of why each character is the way they are. It helps you connect to them so much more.

I enjoyed this book maybe even a little more than the first one. My only complaint is I wanted to more. The upside of that is that it did end in another cliff hanger so more is coming!!

I can’t wait to see the conclusion of their love story!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

[Kamila Mykhailiuk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I absolutely loved this continuation of Massimo and Evelyn’s love story. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.

This book picks up right where the previous one ended. Massimo wakes up after the crash and hears Evelyn’s cries and saves her. A lot of questions were answered and new weee formed in this story. There are flackbacks from Massimo’s childhood and now I understand him better. I loved how Evelyn and Massimo’s relationship progressed. Their chemistry and passion is still of the charts.

Overall I loved this book very much. I definitely recommend reading it.

[Serena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evelyn struggles that Massimo really wants her and decides to run when she thinks she knows what his actions mean. Thinking she was running to help it was anything but. When Massimo gets Evelyn back he knows that nothing will keep them apart, realising that that not letting Evelyn know why he does something is the reason she ran, he vows never to not let her know why again.
Having to visit Columbia he’s not ready to be away from Evelyn so he takes her with him. With Evelyn having an offer to help her leave Massimo she realises that she wants to be there with him, although as suddenly as she realises it, it could all be taken away from her.

[Holly Cliffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Illicit Obsession
Julia Sykes

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Reader’s tears: 💧💧

Book two picks up right in the thick of the chaos that book one left us in the middle of.
Even though their time together has been short, Massimo is willing to do whatever it takes to keep Evelyn safe and by his side. Now more than ever, because her ex-fiancé is on the warpath to get her back.
The further into the King of Ruin series we go, the more intense things are getting, and my feelings are hurt. The spice, however, definitely makes up for all of the emotional damage. (Massimo can kiss it all better any day..)
Overall, this was a super quick read full of action, love, and some toe-curling spice!

[Sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Part two of three and a quick read, Illicit Obsession opens exactly where Tainted Obsession left off with the aftermath of a car crash designed to abduct Evelyn. Massimo manages to save her and soon they are en route to Colombia where Massimo is due to make an important acquaintance.

A large part of this book is based on a misunderstanding which would have been solved by the most basic communication. Massimo is used to not having to answer to anyone, whereas Evelyn has yet to have reason to trust him. And when he does something in Columbia which is outside of her understanding, she reacts, with predictably disastrous consequences.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Illicit Obsession is the second book in this series and picks up right where book one finished, so it cannot be read as a standalone and must be read after Tainted Obsession to fully understand the story. Massimo and Evelyn's relationship continues in this action packed read that finishes at a spot that will have you holding your breath. This is a mafia read so please keep that in mind as the content may not be for everyone, however I found this an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to finding out how this series will end!!

[K. Smock · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!! Book two picks up where the first book, Tainted Obsession, of the King of Ruin series ends. This is a steamy second book with lots of action as Massimo works to finalize the deal with the cartels as well as Evelyn. There is lots of violence, so if that is not your cup of tea this may not be the series for you. They have an electric connection. Is it love or lust? Book ends leaving things up in the air, so I look forward to the third book in this trilogy.

I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.