Endless Obsession

King of Ruin #3

by Julia Sykes

I almost lost her. She was targeted because I dragged her into my criminal underworld and refused to let her go.

But nothing will separate me from the woman I love, and by some miracle, she refuses to be parted from me too.

Dangers from my past pose a lingering threat, and her abusive fiancé wants her back.

No one will take her from me. I will kill every man who tries.

She’s already addicted to my touch, and I know she feels affection for me.

Evelyn will learn to love me as deeply as I love her. She doesn’t have a choice.

I am her future. Her family. Her everything.

Genres: Dark Romance, Dark, Mafia Romance, Contemporary Romance, Forced Proximity, Crime

164 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 11, 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]

Endless Obsession by Julia Sykes (King of Ruin, Book 3)

3.5/4 out of 5 stars 

Endless Obsession is the enjoyable conclusion to Massimo and Evelyn's story. The book picks up right up where Illicit Obsession left off. 
Evelyn is hurt and Massimo does everything in his power to help her heal. He is there for her every step of the way. 

I love Massimo's dream about his past. It really added a nice layer to his character development throughout this series. 

This book is mostly about the future they are setting up for themselves. It's about their love, hopes and dreams they share. And I really liked that.

But there is still one loose end and it's chasing them. 

I love how exciting and enjoyable this one was. But I must admit that this book is so incredibly short. I reread my reviews of the first and second book. And I truly believe that this would have worked better if it was one longer book.

In only 70-80 pages we have two gang fights and a love story that ties up. It was just way too little time to  really work out all those scenes. It felt rushed and forced at times. Especially the last fight. It was like you blinked with one eye and it was over. 

So I kinda hope that the author will turn three short novels into one solid book in the future. To do the characters and the story justice.

But all in all it is still an enjoyable book. 3.5/4 out of 5 stars from me. 

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

The last instalment in the Kings of Ruin trilogy picks up right where we left off in a hike stakes fight! The overprotective Massimo to the rescue, of course! As they start their new life in Italy together, after Evelyn finally coincided to move to Italy. Why move back to America when she had no one was beyond me. Massimo also, for one minute, decides maybe better for Evelyn not to be with him, but she puts a stop to that. The high tension ending is with Massimo's old skeletons taunting him & ultimately  coming between Massimo & Evelyn. If only he did what he said early and the dramatic ending needlessly didn't need to occur! This series was very enjoyable but easily could have been one full-length book!

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

⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️

The last installment in the Kings of Ruin trilogy picks up right where we left off, in a hike stakes fight. Protective Massimo to the rescue 🥰 As they start their new life in Italy together, Massimo's skeletons start haunting him && ultimately start coming between Massimo && Evelyn.

This series was very enjoyable, but ultimately could have been one full-length book.

[Krista Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good book just felt like it was kinda rushing the end and would have loved to have more to their life’s with a family. But other than that it was a good book with a good ending.

[A.H. Monroe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished the final book in the series, and it’s such a bittersweet moment! Evelyn and Massimo’s story has been an incredible journey that I thoroughly enjoyed. This last installment starts off just like the previous ones – packed with action and intrigue from the very first page.

In this book, we delve deeper into the characters, especially Massimo. He’s revealed to be so much more than just a muscle-bound, thrill-seeker. His wit and his obsession with Evelyn are truly captivating. And let’s not forget, Evelyn is equally obsessed with him.

Evelyn’s love has transformed Massimo. Though he remains dangerous, there’s a noticeable shift in him. She embraces him completely, and this acceptance is what truly changes him.

My only complaint? I wish this book was both shorter and longer – shorter in terms of pacing, but longer because I never wanted it to end. Julia Sykes’ writing style is simply amazing, making me crave more with every page.

Evelyn and Massimo, your story was the perfect blend of intrigue and spice. Thank you, Julia Sykes, for crafting such a memorable and thrilling series.

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

[Serena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Massimo decides that his life has hurt Evelyn enough, but Evelyn won’t have any of it, letting him know her life is in Italy with him now.
Massimo know that now there is nothing he won’t do to keep Evelyn and he will give her the world and keep her safe. Although he didn’t anticipate his past showing up putting her in danger again.
Massimo knows it’s getting harder and harder to protect Evelyn and glad he took precautions, precautions that Evelyn didn’t know about. How will she react when she finds out, will she accept that Massimo needs to because of his past or will she walk away.
Amazing conclusion to their story.

[Kamila Mykhailiuk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I absolutely loved this conclusion to Evelyn and Massimo’s love story. Wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.

It starts off with Evelyn being hurt. Massimo will do anything and everything in his power to protect her and keep her safe. They were meant to be together and Massimo will not let anyone or anything get in their way of happily ever after. The chemistry and passion between them is off the charts as always. All of the questions were answered and new ones added up. Can’t wait for more.

Overall I loved this book very much. I definitely recommend reading this finale in this trilogy.

[Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This final instalment Massimo and Evelyn’s journey was an entertaining fast paced quick read that I demolished in an evening.

[Judie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Endless Obsession picks right up where we left Evelyn and Massimo in Illicit Obsession. I was so glad because it is some cliffhanger in Illicit. That being said, the book wraps up the conclusion to Evelyn and Massimo pretty quickly and I really wanted more.

This book focused on the recovery of Evelyn and their dreams of developing a future together. Evelyn accepts Massimo for who he is and the life he has to lead. She even understands his need for possession and control as a result of it. Massimo loves Evelyn, but hasn’t said the words. He knows he can never let her go, and knows that one day she will love him. Hint: she already does.

Their arrival in Italy is a bit dangerous and Massimo needs to take care of some loose ends that are still present in his life. These create problems for him and Evelyn until he takes care of the situation.
I am not sure how I feel about what he did to Evelyn on the plane(no spoiler here) but I need to know how she feels about that when she realizes what he's done.

Even though the book wrapped up too soon for me, and I wished for more. I am happy for Evelyn and Massimo and can’t wait to read more about them in the coming books when we get Enzo’s story! If you like romance, spice, and intrigue then this is the series for you.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating continuation to series, wonderful scenario and action that will keep you fully engaged
This was the final book in this three-book series and I have to say that as usual the writing was inspired and the characters Massimo and Evelyn who was recovering from the gun shot, she had received when she had been at the club.
It had been a serious injury that had left Massimo very shaken that he could have so easily lost her and now he has had second thoughts about the danger she is in whilst in his life but she insists that she wants to return with him when he goes home to Italy where she plans on making a home with him.
Massimo is called in to see his boss and leaves Evellyn in the good hands of his two brothers if not in blood Gian and Enzo who come to her aid when she is being held captive by the man that killed the parents of Massimo, they come to their aid with no thought for their own safety and this is what real family is.
If I had one minor complaint it was that the book was over a little too quickly for my liking and yet I have to say that the finalising of this story was simply wonderful and I am sure that other readers will feel exactly the same and will be left looking forward to future books by this wonderful author.
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]

DAY MADE! I finally got to read Endless Obsession, the final book in the King of Ruin series by @authorjuliasykes. Once I picked it up, I wasn't able to put it down until I ended Massimo and Evelyn's story.

Pros:
Quick Read - I literally could not put this down and knocked it out in a few hours. Fantastic read that picked up right at the conclusion of the last book and kept me hooked.

Engaging Characters - Massimo and Evelyn will always hold a special place in my heart. The love they have for each other is obvious and their chemistry is 🔥🔥🔥!

The Ending of a Series - I think this was a beautiful wrap up to the series. We saw Massimo and Evelyn's problems solved and got a pretty good idea of their future life plans.

Cons:
I truly just wanted more. More action, more time with Evelyn and Massimo, a little more of everything. This book flew by wrapping up the series in a nice package but I wish it'd have been a bit longer and less rushed.

I really can't recommend this series enough. It's fantastic and one I've enjoyed SO much. I highly recommend you go check it out (and they're available on KU!)

[Smutty]

“I can’t change what I am. But I will be good to you, farfallina. I swear.”

Book #3 to the King of Ruin trilogy by @authorjuliasykes is available NOW on Amazon/Kindle Unlimited. It is not a standalone series - you must read them in order. Possible spoilers/TW note below!

This series was quick, dirty, and a palate cleanser after reading some fluffy, friends to lovers tropes. Massimo has fallen HARD by this third installment and Evelyn starts to come around to the idea of starting her life over with Massimo.

We find out more about Massimo’s past with his parents’ death and why he is the fierce protector of innocents.

“Massimo had raced toward me, his beautiful face a mask of primal fear.”

The book tidies up the plot nicely with some added spice. I do want to add that there is a scene where Evelyn takes a sleeping pill so Massimo can implant a tracking device - and in her twilight consciousness, there is a spicy moment. It’s later made aware that Evelyn does recall this - but I wanted to call it out in case anyone is sensitive to that type of content.

Thank you to Julia and Valentine PR for the ARC to 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 conclusion of Massimo and Evelyn's story. You have to read Illicit Obsession before diving into this book. That book ends where this one begins. We get to see a side of Massimo in this book that I don't know that we have seen before. Not that I am aware of. He is not going to let Evelyn heal on her own. He is there without her every step of the way. He is also a man who is going to protect the woman he loves from danger. Nothing is going to touch Evelyn. We also get a glimpse of Massimo's past. But I will let you discover that for yourself. These two have some amazing chemistry and are just so perfect for each other. We can't get to the conclusion without really going through some things. Danger lurks and Massimo is not going to let anything stand in the way of their happiness. There are twists and turns. Its's not just a mushy book like I am making it sound like. It is really good and I loved the conclusion to this series.

[Nickie Sale · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the final book in the series and picks up Massimo and Evelyn's journey after Evelyn had been hurt. Please note this is not a stand alone book you do need to read Tainted Obession and Illicit Obession first.

The first two books had me on the edge of my seat and drooling for this final part of Massimo and Evelyn's journey. Sadly, I felt somewhat let down by this short (89 pages) conclusion. I felt as though I blinked and it was done and that the author had missed a real opportunity to give us a heart stopping finale to what has been an epic journey.

That said we do get to see Massimo put his heart on the line for Evelyn, an action that in his mafia world is like a red rag to a bull, bringing yet more danger knocking on the door. Massimo's past pops it's head up, making it difficult for Massimo to do what he said he would do - protect Evelyn from danger.

Despite the short conclusion I did enjoy Massimo and Evelyn's journey and very much look forward to Enzo's journey.

[K. Smock · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!! This is the third and last in Massimo and Evelyn's story. It starts where Illicit Obsession ends so make sure to read the first two books first. Massimo is distraught that Evelyn was hurt. He has become obsessed with her but thinks he should let her go since it is his fault she was injured. Evelyn can only see how well Massimo takes care of her and she finally has someone who cares for her. There is still danger, and she doesn't like that he is in the mafia, but she knows he will keep her safe. Now she finally has a family. There are couple of good twists in the story that keeps you reading to the last page. Looking forward to reading more about the secondary characters in this story. Enjoy!!

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

[Claire Cronin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The final book in this King of Ruin series, and this picks up straight after book 2, Illicit Obsession.

Evelyn has been shot when the rival gang storms the club - Massimo can't get to her in time to stop her from being hurt, and he is powerless to stop it, even after vowing nothing would hurt her. He does everything in his power to make sure she recovers, but is weighed down by his guilt from both when his parents were killed and from Evelyn being shot, coming to the conclusion that it is his fault and he should have let her go.

This was an enjoyable end to the trilogy, all about their possible future together, their hopes and dreams, but there is still one thing that they haven't cleared up, that comes looking for them.....

I enjoyed this trilogy, but ultimately think it should have been released as just one longer book, rather than the 3 very short ones.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.4 stars
This is the third book in the King of Ruin series, and it brings the conclusion of Massimo and Evelyn’s story. It is not a standalone and the series must be read in order. These two have been through the ringer and have fought a hard-won fight to get to where they are and planning for their future. Like its predecessors there is plenty of action from the get-go and it filters through the rest of the storyline. Evelyn is recovering but she knows her heart and what her heart wants is Massimo. Massimo is changed by the love that Evelyn has for him and his love for her. My one critique is that I wish it were longer. Overall, this is one fast paced, emotional read and Ms. Sykes has wrapped this one up with her own sense of style and I look forward for what she has coming next.

[A. Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the last book in the trilogy. Massimo is and has been endlessly obsessed with Evelyn from first sight. The readers have seen Evelyn conflicted but not Massimo. However, Massimo is conflicted because of how the last book ended and this book starts. Massimo feels guilty, about a few things. Massimo and Evelyn both still have scars from their pasts. Everything comes to a violent head at the conclusion of this book and series. Everything is wrapped up with a bow. I just wish this book was just a little longer. I could stand a bonus extended scene with details of a longer happy ever after for Evelyn and Massimo. Their ending was quick.

I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily left this review.

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

The finish of Massimo and Evelyn’s story is so good! We find out what happens and how Massimo helps her get through everything.

I’ve been invested in Massimo and Evelyn’s story since the beginning. I have read many Julia Sykes books, but I have been away from her books for a bit, but I’m not sure why. I will go back and read the ones I haven’t read, and will definitely read her coming work.

Although I wasn’t sure about Massimo at first, I liked the way Evelyn felt when he was around. She was not in a good relationship, and that man… he got what he deserved. Not quite soon enough for me, but he did get his due. I really enjoyed this story.. it’s well worth anyone’s time to read. Love Julia Sykes and her writing mind.

[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

[Marlene Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beginning where Illicit Obsession ended, we find that Evelyn was gravely injured during the attack on Stefano and Carmen's cartel stronghold....but Massimo refuses to leave her side, acting as her protector and nurse through her recovery. The reader discovers more of Massimo's past along with Evelyn's reasons for staying with a man she knows is a killer, but who puts her first, which has never happened before in her life, believing he is a good man with his code of honor...but will going to Italy lead to their happily ever after or will the past rear an ugly head to squash their dreams??? I voluntarily read this book through an Advanced Reader Copy.

[Dark Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

The third and final book of this series. Are they going to have a happy end? Or is the whole thing going to continue? Once again they end up in horrific situations and I’M getting tired off it.

This series is basically a book split into three short chapters. There are really good and intriguing parts to the book but it’s a bit much at moments. It’s one event after another and they fall into a rhythm of abuse, violence and needing to save Evelyn. At one point it just gets annoying. In my eyes it could have been one book if you skip certain events and let it just flow instead of adding all these situations.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the 'King of Ruin' trilogy and is the conclusion to Massimo and Evelyn's story. We pick up the story right where the previous book 'Illicit Obsession' ended and get straight back into this fast paced, action packed page turner. This book cannot be read as a standalone and you must have read the previous two books to understand the story. I thought this was a wonderful conclusion, Massimo tends to spill a little blood but certainly knows how to treat his lady. Enzo's story is up next which I'm sure will be fabulous.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book and the conclusion of Massimo and Evelyn’s journey and continues straight on from the ending of the previous book when she is injured. Massimo will so whatever he must to keep Evelyn safe and protected and is there every step of the way as she heals.
This is a well written easy to read story, with danger, intrigue, forced proximity, emotions, tension, twists and turns, healing, combustible chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and steamy, mafia romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Reading In the Red Room · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the conclusion of the King of Ruin trilogy. This trilogy was an intense page turner wrapped up with a black bow…a black bow splattered with a little blood…and I was here for it! We picked up with Evelyn being hurt and Massimo doing everything in his power to save her and protect her from all future danger. These two were meant to be together and he is not going to let anyone or anything stand in his way. The chemistry between Evelyn and Massimo was undeniable and extremely hot. This third book not only answered all our unanswered questions but gave us soo much more. We definitely got the conclusion we needed in this well written series. I just Loved these well written characters so much, they had great background stories and brought a lot to the table. They told a story about unconditional love, trusting someone so much that it hurts and everything in between. I enjoy the side characters as much as the main characters and I look forward to reading their future stories.

[Jazmyne Janai · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m so sad this series is over, I absolutely loved every book in it! Massimo and Evelyn are so in love and meant to be with each other. The way he takes care of her is really shown in this book! He makes sure she is good before anything else. Evelyn is so adorable wanting to learn Italian for him. She really does hold her own in the book while meeting his friends, and she stands up for herself. My only downside to this story is that it ended so fast, it felt like it was rushed.

[Terri Trawets · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gunfire! Mafia War! Evelyn has been hit. Will she live? Through Massimo’s loving and supportive care, Evelyn does recover. What will happen now?

Together, Massimo and Evelyn must find a way to trust each other in order to fight off a revenge cartel and possibly even a former fiancé. Will true love blossom between these two needy souls? Since this is the conclusion to their story, be prepared for a HEA! I just loved it!

[Mom2three · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the conclusion of Massimo and Evelyn's story, and what a conclusion it was. It starts off with a bang and keep that high energy until the end. There's still danger surrounding these two, but they're looking towards their future. I loved the passion between them, and that there are more tender moments. Massimo is still protective and domineering, but Evelyn has come into her own more and more as the series progresses. In this one we truly see how committed she is to Massimo.

[Rita Bird · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evelyn is my heart and soul.

I’m not a good man, but I love her. I can’t and won’t let her go, ever. The best part is she loves me back. She wants to stay with me. She has a very abusive ex-boyfriend that wants her back. I will do everything in my power to protect her. I will even lay down my life for her. I enjoyed the story. It was different because Massimo loved her so deeply. With an obsession that was unheard of. I would have liked the story to be longer.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark protector

This is the last book in Evelyn and Massimo's story. The ending implies an HEA but there is still the pending coup. I assume that will be part of Enzo's story which is coming next. Fast-paced and full of danger, Evelyn's life is threatened and Massimo is her protector again. Love fully develops despite their stressful existence and some old enemies are dealt with. Evelyn has really evolved into a strong woman with Massimo's support.