Sinful Ruin

Lucky Kings #2

by Charity Ferrell

Book 2 of the Lucky Kings series

Genres: Dark Romance, Forced Proximity, Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Mafia Romance, Dark, Found Family

ebook

Published June 18, 2025

About the author

Charity Ferrell is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, #1 Amazon, and #1 Apple bestselling author.

She resides in Indianapolis, Indiana. When she’s not writing, she’s hanging out with her dog, on a Starbucks run, shopping online, or spending time with her family.

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Reviews

[Kursed Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the moments after her father takes his own life, Genesis Astor trades one contractual marriage for another.

Julian Bellini, a killer in the Lombardi Mafia family, has always been annoyed with his sister’s bestie’s sass. Yet, when he catches wind of Dima Morozova’s intent to make Gen his wife, he enacts a plan that will bring him an heir.

Whew… Julian is a prickly, bloodthirsty mother trucker and the definition of a red flag. While not a new storyline, I loved watching Genesis coax out his softer side. I could’ve done with a little more steam, but I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to Sinful Hearts!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😩😬🥵😳😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}

🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Dark, New Adult, Suspense

✨ Tropes: Contract Marriage, Debt Payment, Enemies-to-Lovers, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Grumpy/Sunshine, Mafia/Bratva/Organized Crime
 
💫 Microtropes: Alphahole, Antihero, Feisty FMC, Jealous/Possessive, Tattooed MMC, Used as Pawn

💋 Kinks: Domination, Panty Thief

⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will leave your panties damp and your cheeks flushed.

🚩 Safety Squad: Kidnapped (Not by MMC), Unalìvíng, Violence, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!

📣 Type: Sinful Ruin is part of the Lucky Kings series but can be read as a standalone. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books may enhance the experience.

🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.

[Melanie (mells_view) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Darkness gives us monsters our peace.

Charity Ferrell 🤝 mafia romance. That’s it. That’s the review.

Sinful Ruin was the perfect read if you’re looking for a classic trope-y mafia romance. I think what I love about Charity’s mafia series are that you can truly just pick any of them up and they will grab you quickly and keep you locked in on reading until the wee hours of the morning. Such good reads.

Julian doesn’t want a wife, but Genesis was his late sisters best friend, so he just had to save her from a marriage contract she didn’t even know she was in. Or at least that’s what he convinces himself. Couldn’t possibly want her for himself or anything. Genesis gets a ton of hidden info dropped on her shoulders from almost page one of this book. I’d say she handled it all pretty well considering and keeps the mafia man who “saved” her on his toes the whole time.

If you like classic mafia romance, this is the read. Right here.

[Shana · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25⭐️ | 3.5🌶
Good book. Not bad but not top tier either. It was fun to see Genesis bring Julian to his knees. I hate that they both lost so much but found each other. Thank you to valentine pr for this arc.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

OBSESSED!!!
I got to 75% in one sitting and had to force myself to stop so I could sleep of which I got about 4 hours. So yes, the book hangover for Julian and Genesis was well deserved. I haven't read these books in order, which I will be rectifying. Julian reminds me of the grinch. He is moody, likes to be alone, hates everyone and doesn't care if he ruins anyone. Along comes Genesis who is kind and loving to everyone yes she can't stop her mouth from running but she has a big heart and knows she can find the real Julian deep inside himself to break him free and for her he does and his heart grows 3x with the love for her and he will destroy anyone who hurts her. she is his, and he protects what's his no matter the cost.

[Jennifer Kingsborough · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book grabbed me from page one, talk about starting with a bang! I absolutely loved seeing a mafia capo who could be so fiercely protective yet genuinely romantic. Gen and Julian were such a perfect match; it felt like fate brought them together. This was my first read by Charity, and I can confidently say I’m now a fan for life. I devoured this story in no time, I couldn’t stop reading.

Thank you so much to Valentine PR and Charity for this ARC. I loved it!

[Pana · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Jaimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I didn't expect that....
Charity wrote another book I couldn't put down. I didn't expect to love Julian as much as I do. But I should have never doubted Charity when I came to writing men that I would fall in love with!

Julian and Genesis are amazing together! But what I love most about them is the way they make each other stronger. They both have this way of balancing the good and the bad. Maybe with Genesis, Julian can see what a good man he is, even if he does bad things. Seeing these two find their footing in the relationship that builds in this book is magical.
The way these two banter back and forth will have you laughing at moments. Genesis has the best analogies! I laughed so hard at her thoughts and the things she said. It was a nice addition to the seriousness of the story!!

Mafia romance has become a favorite trope of mine! The way this story keeps you on your toes is the best. I got so drawn into this story that I really didn't want it to end.
This series may be a favorite of Charity's books!

[ProfoundBeauty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Valentine PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

While I still personally connected more with the first book, this one holds its own with a fresh dynamic and much more action.

The chemistry between the main characters was electric and emotionally layered, and I loved watching their relationship evolve especially from Julien.

It felt darker, edgier, and more complex than the first and for that reason I’ve enjoyed it immensely especially towards the end.

I’m looking forward to the next book and seeing where Charity will take it.

[Karen Hackett · Rating 5 out of 5]

SINFUL RUIN, Lucky Kings Book 2 by Charity Ferrell

Julian Bellini, Italian mobster on one side of the coin with the Russian bratva on other side. Genesis Astor is caught in the middle. What should a girl do to get out of the mess? Contract, Italian mobster, ruthless casino owner, her best friend’s brother. Devoured this book! What a roller coaster ride!

[Kasie Harvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ 3.5🌶
These two characters surprised me! In a good way though! Boy, Julian has met his match. When they asked if he knew what he was getting into with Genesis, Genesis was like hold my beer. Haha Each of the characters has different facets and it's great to witness them as you read. Genesis, wow, I loved her character so much. She is so strong! Julian is ruthless, a no-nonsense guy who loves HARD. Mafia books are where it's at! Charity, I am completely sold and a forever fan!

[Lily Nocturne · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
🌶️🌶️Sinful Ruin was absolutely fantastic. This is the second book in The Lucky Kings series, and it was my first read by Charity Farrell—but it definitely won’t be my last. I’m already planning to go back and listen to the first book.

I loved how the characters actually figured their shit out without dragging things out or making their lives completely miserable, especially given the circumstances they were dealing with. The emotional progression felt natural, and the way the MMC realized how deeply he loved the FMC—maybe a little late, but so perfectly done—was truly chef’s kiss.

The audiobook narration by Avery Reid and Walker Williams was excellent and added so much depth to the story. I devoured this entire audiobook in one day because I simply could not stop listening.

Highly recommend this one if you enjoy emotional romance with strong narration and satisfying character growth.

[Mandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was such a dark adventure! I listened to the audio and it was delicious, absolute great voices. It was middle of the road as I didn't connect with the FMC as much, but I loved the world and will absolutely be reading more from this series!

Thank you to Valentine PR Audio for a chance to listen ahead and review! Podium did an amazing job!

[book nerdys · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genesis after being sold by her parents to an old Russian groom will do anything to be saved

Her brothers best friend Julian comes up with a deal , have his baby abs she’ll be saved from a life’s time abuse

This book was dark mafia romance with lots of spice , tension and chemistry with a possessive obsessive MMC

I really loved it although the pregnancy was to the end of the book , it was still amazing

I couldn’t stop binge reading it

This book was also hilarious I couldn’t stop laughing the whole time

Genesis is SASSY , & Julian was even funnier 😭

Genesisi definitely crawled her way into Julian’s heart

I finished this book in less than a day

[Isabella Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

“ɪ’ᴍ ɴᴏᴛ ᴍᴀʀʀʏɪɴɢ ɢᴇɴᴇꜱɪꜱ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴀᴠᴇ ʜᴇʀ ᴏʀ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜꜱᴇ ɪ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ʜᴇʀ ᴛᴏ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴍʏ ʙᴀʙʏ. ɪ’ᴍ ᴍᴀʀʀʏɪɴɢ ɢᴇɴᴇꜱɪꜱ ꜱᴏ ꜱʜᴇ’ʟʟ ʙᴇ ᴍɪɴᴇ ꜰᴏʀᴇᴠᴇʀ.”

Charity Ferrell is without a doubt one of the BEST Mafia romance authors out there. I have yet to come across a book of hers that didn’t suck me in and completely consume me and this one was no different. This is the second book in the Lucky Kings series, and if you are anything like me and read the first book, you have been DYING for Genesis and Julian’s story, and trust me it does not disappoint!

Julian is our sexy, morally grey , Italian Mafia capo who believes his heart is darker than coal. The man has not had an easy life…blow after blow he’s had to sit back and watch as the people he loved the most were taken from him. After losing his parents and sister, his world turned black. He puts all his focus into his casino and blocks out the world and everyone in it. Except for one person…Genesis.

Genesis is the complete opposite of Julian. Sunshine and happiness. This girl owns my heart with the trouble she gets herself into. Speaking before thinking is my forte and apparently Genesis’ too because the girl can’t help herself. Genesis is going through her own struggles. Growing up with parents who could care less about her, she spent most of her time as a kid and teen with her best friend and in her home. Subsequently falling in love with her best friends brother at 16, Julian. But when her best friend passes away, a wall is built between Julian and Genesis. Mainly built by Julian to protect himself and her from the darkness that surrounds him.

Things take a turn when Julian hears that Genesis has been sold to the Russian mafia Prince as payment for her father’s debts. Immediately Julian steps into action and buys her from the Russians. But there’s a catch. Julian will protect and save Genesis but she has to give him a baby 🙃 honestly…I’d be A OK with giving that deliciously dangerous man as many babies as he wants 😂 but I’m just insane 🥲

Genesis agrees and hopes that she isn’t making a mistake. She’s loved this man since she was 16 but she knows he hides his feelings and emotions. But Genesis is no quitter and she doesn’t care about ANYTHING this man says he DOESN’T do. Don’t do love? Relationships ? LUNCH?!?! Guess what..now you do! Whether you like it or not , sir! 😂 Seeing her manhandle this dark force of a man and bringing him to his knees for her is EVERYTHING!

The situation quickly turns from a contract for a baby to Julian saying , MY WOMAN, MY WIFE, BACK OFF and I was here for every single minute of it ! Genesis broke through his walls and pulled out the soft , vulnerable man hiding deep inside. Her light was the cure for his darkness and together they were FIRE!!!

But…when you play with fire, you get burned. And this situation is no different. Being with Julian comes with its own set of dangers and when his rivals come for his woman he’s ready to burn the world down to get her back. He stops at NOTHING and this made me love him more.

The book is full of hot , passionate moments, suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat and pain that makes your heart ache in all the best ways. I’m so excited for this next books and can’t wait to see who we get next ! 💙

Thank you so much to Charity Ferrell and VPR for the absolute amazing opportunity to ARC read this phenomenal book! 💙

⛓️Mafia Romance
💙Anti-Hero MMC
⛓️Best Friends Brother
💙Fake Fiancé
⛓️Marriage/Baby Contract
💙Morally Grey Hero
⛓️Strong FMC
💙Heroine in Danger
⛓️Touch Her & 💀
💙Blackmail
⛓️Forced Proximity
💙Grief/Trauma
⛓️Suspense
💙Dual POV

[Iram Karim · Rating 5 out of 5]

since i've already read the previous three books from this author. i was looking forward for this one as well. i completely adore her mafia world because it's always something new and treat for my eyes.
So imagine my squel and surprise when i found the ARC for me 🤌🏻🤭 i immediately download and dtart reading right away because the tropes ??? my god !!! that's the best thing.
loved each and every bit of this one and i won't be lying when I say that I devoured this book in just one sitting 🥺👏🏻(claps for me) because this reading slump put all the other choice and energy aside but finally this book heal me some how and encouraged me to move forward ❤️😤
everything was great about this one, the chemistry, the enemies to lover's, the banger, the touch her & die was done so perfectly.

Loved jullian and genesis so much that in one moment i want to read the whole book and on the other hand i don't want it to end ☠️❤️
can't wait for you guys to read and get obsessed just like i do 🤌🏻✨🥰

[Ellie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finally finished and caught up to the most recent released book in the series so time for a “review” ig.

I’m in between 2 or 3 stars, I was excited to read about Genesis after her and Julian being mentioned a lot. Only to realize she lost basically everything and everything changed. And nothing was going to be like how we saw her in the other books.

Another thing about that I’d like to add is the author honestly doesn’t prepare us well enough to anticipate the book after the current book. Especially for the MMC. I realized actually after reading all the books in order starting from the marchetti series and moving onto the lucky kings series, each MMC became weaker and weaker and lower in rank. At first we were at the top of the food chain with Christian, then his son then Antonio a Lombardi, which are known to not be as strong as the Marchetti, and then the right hand of a Lombardi, Damien, who is weaker and under the boss himself Antonio. And then someone who is below Damien and all those other people: Julian our current MMC which also played the role of being a baby sitter for Pippa and didn’t have too much of a personality in Damien’s book. (Then insert Emilio under all of them for the next book)

From being a baby sitter and seeming like a random throw away background character he suddenly becomes this “powerful” mafia guy and then starts demanding for a child from the fmc cause he thinks he’s the shit now and has enough of an importance to need an heir.. just felt a bit unserious idk. And ofc I started laughing when I found out Emilio would be the mmc for the next book, another baby sitter who will also get a personality and probably start making demands too. We just go even lower. Emilio works for Julian and Julian is below all those other people so Emilio is even lower in rank. At this point I’m worried the gardener is gonna end up having a book or something it just feels so random for these mmc to suddenly be all “strong” when they were getting bossed around not too long ago and being so powerless and being baby sitters.

Anyways, it’s no issue if you make the gardener an mmc but introduce them a bit more and give us more depth, make us attached, make us excited yk ?? Who’s gonna want a book of a dude who’s baby sitting the fmc really ? I honestly didn’t expect the fmc baby sitter in either books to end up being the mmc. I had to go back to the other books just to search up their name.

Also now that I think of it I wish we would’ve got more depth into Julian for being the way he was, the doctor thing was a big thing I felt wasn’t really mentioned and we could’ve seen more of that. Or we could’ve seen more as to why Julian was completely opposite of Damien. Damien was sweeter to pippa and didn’t have as many issues with his emotions or loving her. It was kinda insta love with them. Meanwhile Julian couldn’t even pay off the Russian guy over his need for control over Genesis and his lack of honestly with him self about his feelings towards her.

Also another thing about those 2 books that kinda had me in a slump was that it takes forever to get to the main plot 🫩

Like the insta love then being happy for a while or fucking each other and the love hate stuff and then you forget like what the problem of the story was then suddenly your 80% through the book and THEN the kidnapping starts etc then it’s over and it’s wedding time blah blah

Idk I just feel like the story is too happy ending in the BEGINNING it literally feels like it’s at the happy ending part already, that’s how long it felt to get to the bad parts and the drama. I was fighting my way through this last book honestly and I’m so glad I’m done.

And the last scene being a sex scene ??? Really you had the whole book to plant that in there somewhere else, you’re gonna use the last chapter for that ? Could’ve put something about them and their kid or the family etc idk something sweet since it was the end but a sex scene which there was already enough of ? 🫩


Hopefully there can be better characters introduced, actually strong ones. We know about the Russian mafia, or sorry bratva, and then the Irish mafia. So it would be cool if we could have some higher up bosses from those stories with them actually being “good” / not an enemy. Dima could’ve been a nice character to have a redemption arc or something since he was from a whole different mafia and had power. But at some point the villain is way past redemption which happened on his end. No way could he be redeemed after all the weird shit he was saying and the way he was acting ofc he was supposed to be the dude we hated etc and ends up dying so that checks out.

However if he didn’t do all that bad stuff and was alive then yea he would’ve seemed like an interesting character to dive into, way more then Emilio if I’m being honest 😭

With the Marchettis being the strongest family in that city it feels like they kind of outshine any other mmc or family knowing THEY exist in the same world or really city, hence why if we explored other parts of that world like Russia and showed the other strong bosses as new characters there would be less repetition and more mystery. Hopefully with Emilio’s book and his Russian bride we can dive deeper into the Russian roots and maybe be introduced to the Russian bratva and future bratva MMCs ;)

And don’t think I forgot about our girl Riona!!! I hope we can see more of her and the Irish mafia. And she better not end up being a doormat or being married to a Gardner I BEG!! Just imagine a female mafia boss ?? And a RIVAL mafia boss ?? Like the possibilities?? they would be a power couple forget Antonio and gigi this pair would over take!!

I’m still upset about how random Riona turned out to be an interesting character since she was made to seem kind of like a bitch but then she’s kind of a bad ass ?? But we don’t really know too much so I hope she has a better set up or gets more mentions she has so much potential. I really didn’t expect her to be a badass like that like Charity you gotta give us more of a heads up like talk about these side characters moreeeee I keep getting slammed in the face with these people suddenly becoming important

There’s lots of potential in this universe/series. I prefer reading about strong and smart characters. There were certain tropes in here that just weren’t for me like the baby contract part or Genesis being a little lost about some things and being so dependent on Julian when I’d initially thought she was gonna be this cool rich bad bitch we got a glimpse of back in pippas book. I read this book because it was next in the series and I was a little excited to read more about Genesis.

Anyway, super long “review” but it’s more of a reminder for me and my experience so take it as you will if anyone comes across this. Have fun with the books and hopefully I can come back to see this mafia world growing more outside of the New York marchetti setting soon since I’m already so familiar with everything x

[Eleanor Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danger, Desire, and Mafia Mayhem: This Audiobook Pulls You In Hard 🖤

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sinful Ruin by Charity Ferrell

Narrated by Avery Reid and Walker Williams

This audiobook is dark, intense, and completely addictive. Avery Reid and Walker Williams deliver standout performances that bring the danger, desire, and emotional tension to life.

Genesis

Strong, resilient, and far more capable than she’s given credit for, the FMC is pulled into a dangerous world she never asked to be part of. She refuses to be intimidated, even when surrounded by power, violence, and control. Beneath her strength is vulnerability, and as the stakes rise, she’s forced to decide how much of herself she’s willing to risk for survival—and love.



Julian Bellini.

Italian mobster.
Ruthless casino owner,Cold, commanding, and ruthlessly in control, the MMC is everything a mafia heir should be. Loyalty is his currency, power is his weapon, and emotions are a liability—until the FMC becomes his weakness. Morally gray and dangerously possessive, he’s torn between duty and desire, determined to protect what he claims as his.

Together.
Their relationship is forged under pressure—built on forced proximity, power imbalance, and simmering attraction. What begins as obligation turns into obsession, trust, and a bond neither can afford but neither can resist. Dark, intense, and emotionally charged, their connection defines the meaning of sinful ruin.

Sinful Ruin is an irresistible dark mafia romance that grabs you from the first line and doesn’t let go. Set in the gritty, high-stakes world of organized crime, this story’s intensity and tension are amplified by the excellent narration of Avery Reid and Walker Williams. Their performances bring depth, emotion, and fierce chemistry to every scene, making this audiobook feel cinematic, raw, and completely immersive.  

🎧But Listennnn!
Avery Reid lends a powerful voice work to the FMC, capturing her strength, vulnerability, and emotional resilience.
While Walker Williams delivers the MMC with smoldering presence, perfectly balancing his ruthless mafia edge with the complexity of his growing attachment. Together, they elevate the dark, passionate tension and make every moment feel urgent and alive.  
They were utter perfection together!

From forced proximity and dangerous contracts to explosive chemistry and emotional conflict, this audiobook keeps listeners hooked with its gripping pacing and layered characters. Whether you’re a fan of mafia romance or just love narration that enriches every beat of the story, Sinful Ruin is a binge-worthy listen.  

If you love mafia romance with high stakes, strong narration, and scorching tension, then Sinful Ruin is absolutely worth the listen.

☠︎

🔥 Tropes & Themes
    ♡Mafia romance/organized crime setting 🕴️
    ♡Best friend’s brother/ age gap 🔥
    ♡Contract marriage / forced proximity 💍
    ♡Enemies-to-lovers tension ⚔️
    ♡Morally-gray, possessive MMC 😈
    ♡High heat & emotional stakes ❤️‍🔥 

✍︎✰


ℱ𝒾𝓃𝒶𝓁 𝒯𝒽ℴ𝓊ℊ𝒽𝓉𝓈 💭✍︎☕︎
If you want an audiobook that blends danger, desire, and beautifully delivered storytelling, Sinful Ruin is an electrifying pick. The narrators bring the heat and the heart, making this a standout in dark romance audio.
Definitely recommend listening.


A special shout out to Valentine_ pr for this incredible opportunity and to you besties for reading my reviews ramblings and Recs.
Until next time
One Love 💕 one book at a time.

🦋𝒢ℯℴ𝓇ℊ𝒾ℴ𝓊𝓈🦋✍︎☕︎

[Sassy Southern Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in The Lucky Kings series and another intense Mafia romance success for Charity Ferrell.
Julian and Genesis are FULL THROTTLE Let me tell you that much,they have know one another for a long time,as Julian is her best friends brother.So Genesis who is NOT Mafia has been around Mafia families most of her life.Her father on the other hand seemed to love engaging with dangerous men which is how Genesis becomes collateral damage to her Fathers dealings.
She has been contracted to The Bratva to marry the Bratva bosses son Dima,and it is Julian who intercepts that deal and him intervening means there is a new deal.
Genesis is Julian's now and if she does not agree to his terms he will send her back to marry Dima,a psychopath.
The deal is a strange one.
But Gen has no choice she literally has been left with Nothing,but she doesn't make it easy for Julian and tests his patience and sanity.
As you can imagine Julian is the typical Mafia man he is possessive and demanding abide by his rules or pay the consequences for it.He is often mean but does have a soft side to him and you do see glimpses of that,as his feelings grow for Genesis.
Genesis is a tough cookie though and she challenges Julian and doesn't back down from him,she is determined to,trying to make Julian fall for her.I think that is to protect herself at first so she can keep safe under Julian's protection...But that changes and she just wants him to love her.
The chemistry and attraction is palpable between them and the steam is smoking hot.!!
I LOve the banter between them it could be so entertaining and amusing,I don't think Julian knows what hits him having Genesis in his life,she is a tornado riping down his walls.
The Narration between Avery Reid and Walker Williams is fantastic,their portrayal of Gen and Julian is passionate and emotional.
I LOved and enjoyed listening to them tell this story,they made the book so much better.
As you expect with Mafia stories nothing goes smoothly and falling in love may come at a price...especially when you have enemies.
Sinful Ruin is very addictive and it was hard to stop listening to it,you just need to know how it will all play out.This is a great enemies to lovers,age gap,best friends brother romance..There are some subjects sensitive readers may be uncomfortable with...There are touch her and die vibes..a little bit of romantic vibes and a rollercoaster of events that will keep you wanting more.
I loved listening to it.
5 Stars.- Cat W.

[Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in The Lucky Kings series and another intense Mafia romance success for Charity Ferrell.
Julian and Genesis are FULL THROTTLE Let me tell you that much,they have know one another for a long time,as Julian is her best friends brother.So Genesis who is NOT Mafia has been around Mafia families most of her life.Her father on the other hand seemed to love engaging with dangerous men which is how Genesis becomes collateral damage to her Fathers dealings.
She has been contracted to The Bratva to marry the Bratva bosses son Dima,and it is Julian who intercepts that deal and him intervening means there is a new deal.
Genesis is Julian's now and if she does not agree to his terms he will send her back to marry Dima,a psychopath.
The deal is a strange one.
But Gen has no choice she literally has been left with Nothing,but she doesn't make it easy for Julian and tests his patience and sanity.
As you can imagine Julian is the typical Mafia man he is possessive and demanding abide by his rules or pay the consequences for it.He is often mean but does have a soft side to him and you do see glimpses of that,as his feelings grow for Genesis.
Genesis is a tough cookie though and she challenges Julian and doesn't back down from him,she is determined to,trying to make Julian fall for her.I think that is to protect herself at first so she can keep safe under Julian's protection...But that changes and she just wants him to love her.
The chemistry and attraction is palpable between them and the steam is smoking hot.!!
I LOve the banter between them it could be so entertaining and amusing,I don't think Julian knows what hits him having Genesis in his life,she is a tornado riping down his walls.
The Narration between Avery Reid and Walker Williams is fantastic,their portrayal of Gen and Julian is passionate and emotional.
I LOved and enjoyed listening to them tell this story,they made the book so much better.
As you expect with Mafia stories nothing goes smoothly and falling in love may come at a price...especially when you have enemies.
Sinful Ruin is very addictive and it was hard to stop listening to it,you just need to know how it will all play out.This is a great enemies to lovers,age gap,best friends brother romance..There are some subjects sensitive readers may be uncomfortable with...There are touch her and die vibes..a little bit of romantic vibes and a rollercoaster of events that will keep you wanting more.
I loved listening to it.
5 Stars.

[Xratedreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice 🌶🌶🌶

The second instalment in the Lucky Kings series, Sinful Ruin, dives deep into the fiery tension between Julian Bellini and Genesis Astor and what a ride it is. Charity Ferrell has once again crafted a gripping, multi-layered world full of danger, intensity, and irresistible mafia drama, Sinful Ruin is another strong testament to her writing.

If you’ve followed the Marchetti Mafia or read Sinful Sacrifice, you’ve likely been waiting for Julian and Genesis’s story, and it does not disappoint. While Sinful Ruin technically works as a standalone, I’d definitely suggest starting from the earlier series to fully enjoy the connections and history that bring extra weight to this story.

Julian is the classic brooding anti-hero, cool on the surface, tormented underneath, but Genesis brings a warmth and stubborn fire that constantly challenges him. Their dynamic crackles from the start. Genesis was once his sister’s best friend, and her loss has created a wall between them that’s equal parts grief and unresolved desire. But Genesis isn’t the type to be ignored. She’s fierce, compassionate, and surprisingly hilarious, lighting up every page she’s on. Watching her chip away at Julian’s icy exterior was incredibly satisfying.

The slow-burn tension between them is off the charts. The banter is sharp, the heat intense, and their emotional tug-of-war keeps you hooked. Their story has heart, grit, and enough spice to keep things deliciously steamy without overshadowing the emotional core.

Charity's writing continues to balance fast-paced storytelling with emotional depth. I loved seeing familiar faces make appearances, adding richness and continuity to the world she's built. This book had me flipping pages late into the night, I didn’t want to stop reading.

I tore through this book; it was impossible to step away. Charity’s mafia romances are incredibly readable, with fast-paced plots that still manage to pack in real emotional depth. I especially enjoyed the cameos from characters in earlier books, it made the story feel even richer and more connected. I cant wait for book 3 Sinful Hearts already!

Tropes

Mafia Romance
Best Friends Brother
Fake Fiancé
Marriage & Baby Contract
Morally Grey MMC
Touch her & Die
Blackmail
Forced Proximity

[Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/4.5 ⭐️

Author Charity Ferrell is back with her newest release from Lucky Kings series; Sinful Ruin.
Book two has us following the story of Julian Bellini younger brother to Damien Bellini from Sinful Sacrifice and Genesis ‘Gen’ Astor in this Best Friend’s Brother, Fake Fiancé, Mafia Romance.

The narrative had much to explore through and develop upon, considering it wasn’t just a Mafia Romance story between Julian and Genesis.
Yes there was the character development of both characters, showcasing within their individual chapters, whilst seeing the building and growth of their relationship too.
But there was also the subplots including the Mafia side given Julian’s ties to the world, bringing forth a lot of situations, events, including the one that bought Genesis and Julian back into each other’s life.
The results being quite the uphill journey, full of bumps, ups and downs, with a lot of back and forth, given the hurdles and obstacles the two were forced to battle. Other then their relationship of course, considering how it came about.

Although big brother Damien will always be number 1 for me. Little brother Julian still managed to have me falling for him.
Every chapter of his, he had you gripped, yet simultaneously falling down the rabbit hole from seeing, exploring and learning all that was to Julian.
He may have been a tough, strong, badass, morally gray anti-hero MMC, but there was so much more to him than what he presented on the outside. Something author Charity thoroughly showcased in the development of his character throughout the book.
Slowly but surely, his layers came undone, presenting us with all that was kept pushed down and hidden away.
Whether that be his emotionally side he never showed, or tried to deny and ignore when it came to his feelings towards Genesis.
Though his physical side proved otherwise given the pull he felt towards Genesis when they did get into it from how hot and spicy those steamy moments became.

Was it any surprise author Charity Ferrell had you venturing through quite the adventure that was Julian and Genesis’s journey.
From the action packed thrills given the Mafia side of the plot, creating constant suspenseful build, due to the emotionally charged angst in this Hate to Love, Slow Burn that was infused with some drama.
A well constructed and thoroughly developed written story, Sinful Ruin ended up being the latest addition of another great read from Lucky Kings series.
I look forward to Emilio’s book Sinful Hearts next.



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

[Sharleen ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ Charity continues to blow me away with each new instalment of her mafia universe! I am so in love with these characters and adore that we get to check in with all our beloved couples from the previous books 🥹

Tropes

• mafia romance
• best friend’s brother
• arranged pregnancy/marriage
• forced proximity
• touch her & 🔪

Review

Julian is Damien’s brother and an important part of the Lombardi mafia. We met Genesis in the previous book as the best friend of Julian & Damien’s younger sister. There were a few little breadcrumbs in Sinful Sacrifice that had me chopping at the bit for their story!

The dynamic between Julian & Genesis was a lot of fun. He is very stoic, used to holding all the power and extremely deadly. Genesis however is used to getting her own way and is much more of a free spirit. There was a lot of tension that eventually turned into playful banter. I liked that the history between them added to the depth of their relationship. She grew up with his family, loving and being loved by them, so she was able to emotionally connect with him in a way no other woman ever could. They shared some truly heartwarming moments reminiscing about his family and I just really loved the way their relationship played out.

There is nothing I love more than getting to see all our favourites from the previous books and there were so many amazing cameos in this one. Getting a glimpse at Cristian & Antonio’s current day relationship was hands down one of my favourite parts 😂 Luca continues to be a side character I adore with each new release. He’s so much fun and I pray we eventually get to see Bella get her man 🤭

As always, the action that takes place is right up my ally. The war with the Irish is over for now but in this book things ramp up with the Russian Bratva. Every thing that went down in the last 10% was chef’s kiss. Nothing I love more than a badass fmc!

I always know I’m going to have the best time picking up one of Charity’s books and this one was no exception! I’m already so excited for the next one! Thank you so much to Charity & Valentine PR for the ARC 🤍

[Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unapologetically himself, Julian Bellini is one of the hottest morally gray MMCs that Charity has ever written, and my goodness this man unhinged and delicious, but soooo smoking-hot  🥵🔥 I'm totally in love with him!!

From the very start Julian exudes confidence and says what he wants. Probably the only thing he's unaware of is his feelings, but I'll let that slide, since he's a stubborn man who gets his own way. Or mostly does except where Genesis is involved. She has him wrapped around her fingers from the get-go. Genesis isn't a wallflower by any means. She’s snarky and constantly stands up to Julian. She's one of the few who can. Everyone else isn't alive to admit it. 😂 Julian loves to pew-pew people and yet, Genesis still has goo-goo eyes for him. Like, I said, I do too because this man...is seriously hot, even with all his pew-pewing. 😂

What is the big dilemma in the story - Julian basically purchases Genesis for a million dollars with the intention of making her his baby mama. There is more to it, but her dad had some shady deals that involved Russians and his daughter, Genesis. At the last minute Julian stepped in and bought that contract so it kept her out of the hands of the Russians, which met Julian's needs, but it also gave him a chance at a future. A chance to add more Bellini's to his family line, but for Genesis, she was hoping for a life of love, regardless of what mistakes her father made.

This book is pretty intense, especially with Julian constantly pew-pewing everyone 😂, but to even out his intensity, his internal thoughts are rather comical. I'm also going to say that his intensity totally makes this book worth reading. Hands down. These two also have fantastic bantering, since Genesis doesn't sit back and quietly take orders, much to Julian's dismay. Although to be fair, he deep down, likes her fighting spirit and wouldn't want to change a thing about her. 

Sinful Ruin is another one of my favorite Charity Farrell books and I can't wait for more from this world!!

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sinful Ruin by Charity Ferrell, narrated with delicious delivery by Avery Reid and Walker Williams, is the perfect example of a classic, trope-heavy mafia romance that will immediately grab your attention and keep you locked in until the wee hours of the morning. It's a phenomenal addition to the author's mafia series, which is known for its quick-to-binge, unputdownable stories.

The book starts with a bang, immediately thrusting Genesis into a world of hidden information and financial ruin. Her father's death left her vulnerable to a marriage contract arranged in secret with the Russian Bratva to cover her family's debt. Enter Julian Bellini, the Italian mobster, ruthless casino owner, and, most importantly, her late best friend's brother. Julian convinces himself that he only intervenes to save Genesis from the Russians, but his actions betray his true desire for the woman he had only ever viewed as his sister's "annoying best friend."

The conflict is clear: "You have two options, Genesis. Marry into the Russian bratva or sign my contract." Julian offers to pay the debt if Genesis signs his contract, a deal that might ultimately ruin her—or lead to the love she's harbored for him since she was a teen.

Julian is the quintessential broody, dark, dangerous, and possessive mafia capo, but he possesses a deeply romantic side and is fiercely protective of those he loves. Genesis, whose world has been crumbling from financial strain and parental abandonment, handles the shock of her new reality surprisingly well, keeping the mafia man who "saved" her on his toes the entire time. Their chemistry is explosive; it truly felt like fate brought the fiercely protective Julian and the resilient Genesis together. Watching their love grow and blossom was a joy, confirming that this book is a must-read for any fan of the mafia romance genre.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[MiracleBooklover Bassett · Rating 5 out of 5]

My ARC Review for Sinful Ruin by Charity Ferrell

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️5

Julian Bellini gave Genesis two options: marry into the Russian bratva… or sign his contract. What she doesn’t know is that this deal comes with a cost one that just might ruin her.

Genesis isn’t just some girl from his past. She was his sister’s best friend, basically raised in his family’s home. After Julian lost his parents and sister, Genesis became the last person from that part of his life he still had. And even though he’d never admit it because mafia men don’t sit around talking about feelings he didn’t want to grieve alone. She’s the one piece that helps him still remember his mother and sister. The one person who still feels like home.

Julian acts cold and calculated, but like Benny from Gorgeous Prince said he’s in denial. That man is in love, whether he knows it or not. And Genesis? She’s a fighter. She doesn’t wait to be rescued. She hopes Julian will save her, sure but at the end of the day, she saves herself. She’s her own hero, and that’s exactly why he falls so hard.

Also she can get him to do anything. He tells her he doesn’t do lunch. Guess who’s sitting there a few hours later not eating lunch with her anyway. The way she pushes past his walls without even trying? Obsessed. He doesn’t stand a chance.

Their chemistry, the unraveling of all those walls, the push and pull… it all hit so hard. Honestly, this might be my favorite book in the Lucky Kings series. It gave everything grief, love, power, and two broken souls who somehow made each other whole.

I’m so glad I finally gave this author a shot a couple months ago. I’d seen her name all over the romance world, and when I finally picked up her mafia books? I fell in love. Charity Ferrell is that author now I get it. I’m in love. 🖤

[Talesa Hardaway · Rating 5 out of 5]

This installment in the Lucky Kings Mafia universe delivers a gripping blend of danger, devotion, and long‑buried longing. At its core are Julian Bellini—mafia heir, protector by instinct and by blood—and Genesis Astor, the girl who grew up loving him long before she understood what love could cost.

The story leans into some of the genre’s most addictive tropes—forced proximity, age gap tension, best friend’s brother, and a simmering touch‑her‑and‑die possessiveness—but elevates them with emotional depth and a tragic backstory that reshapes both characters’ lives.

Genesis has always seen Julian as her first crush, her first love, and the unreachable man who kept his distance out of loyalty to his sister—her best friend. Their dynamic is framed as enemies to lovers, though the truth is far more compelling: they were never enemies at all. They were two people wanting the same thing, separated by circumstance, grief, and the weight of unspoken desire.

When Genesis’s father sells her to the Russian bratva to settle a debt, the story takes a sharp, high‑stakes turn. Julian steps in—not as a savior in shining armor, but as a man who refuses to lose her. He buys the marriage contract, rewriting her fate by turning it into a pregnancy contract—a choice that forces them into close quarters and forces every buried feeling to the surface.
Layered over this is the devastating loss of Genesis’s best friend, Julian’s sister, and their parents in an explosion that reshaped both their lives. Their shared grief becomes a quiet, powerful thread that binds them even as they try to keep their distance.

The sexual tension between Julian and Genesis is electric, the kind that hums beneath every glance and every argument. But what makes their connection unforgettable is the tenderness beneath the heat. Their love is palpable—inevitable, even—built on years of longing, loyalty, and the ache of everything they’ve lost.

Julian’s protectiveness never overshadows Genesis’s strength; instead, it amplifies the fierce devotion between them. Their dynamic balances dark romance intensity with genuine emotional resonance.

This story is a standout for readers who crave mafia romance with heart, heat, and high stakes. It blends danger with devotion, trauma with tenderness, and longing with explosive chemistry. Julian and Genesis’s journey is messy, emotional, and deeply satisfying—exactly the kind of love story that lingers long after the final page.

[CrysTellsReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sinful Ruin by Charity Ferrell

The second installment in the Lucky Kings series, Sinful Ruin throws us straight into the explosive tension between Julian Bellini and Genesis Astor—and whewww, what a wild, messy, mafia-soaked ride. Charity Ferrell once again delivers a dark, addictive world full of danger, loyalty, and just the right amount of drama.

If you’ve followed the Marchetti Mafia or read Sinful Sacrifice, you’ve probably been low-key (or loudly 👀) waiting for Julian and Genesis’s story, and it does not disappoint. While you can read this as a standalone, starting earlier in the series definitely helps with all the tangled family ties and backstory.

Genesis has been sold off by her parents to an older Russian groom and will do anything to escape a lifetime of abuse. Enter Julian—her best friend’s brother, all ruthless power and tightly leashed emotion—who offers her a deal that changes everything: have his baby, and he’ll make sure she never has to go back. Messy? Absolutely. Compelling? Also absolutely. Their chemistry is sharp, angsty, and impossible to look away from.

I listened to the audiobook in a single day because once I hit play, that was it for my productivity. 😅 Huge thank you to Valentine PR for the audio listening copy. 🎧 Avery Reid and Walker Williams owned these roles—they brought Genesis and Julian to life with so much heat, tension, and emotion that it felt like they were right in the room.

Spice level? A solid 🌶️🌶️🌶️ — enough to make you sweat and leave a tingle on your tongue, eagerly waiting for the next delicious bite. 😈

🎧 Audio drops December 16, 2025 — go ahead and add this one to your TBL (Too-Be-Listened) list, because it’s absolutely worth the ride.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Queen of Mafia Romance Does It Again! The second book in the Lucky Kings series brings us Julian Bellini and Genesis Astor in Sinful Ruin. What a ride we get with this unhinged, morally grey MMC who falls harder for his sarcastic, sassy FMC. You can't go wrong with a best friends brother trope, but when you add in a pregnancy contract, an OTT hero, and a heroine who can't stay out of trouble, then you have a book that sits on the top shelf of being highly recommended! Also, I absolutely love a model cover that matches the hero!!

TW: Guns, knives, blood, murder, death of family members, suicide, kidnapping, alcohol use, edging, open door sex scenes and gambling.


I want to sincerely Thank Charity Ferrell for my ARC and in return I voluntarily promised an honest review.


Genesis Astor fell in love at first sight with her best friends brother when she was 16 years old. She compares every man with him but he couldn't care less about her until her father sells her to a Russian Bratva Prince.

Julian Bellini owns his own casino and is a Capo for the Lombardi Italian Mafia. He's always stayed away from Gen because his soul is black and she's to good. But when he hears that her father sold her to the Russians then he steps in with his own contract and buys her for 1 million dollars.

Genesis is surprised he saves her but shocked when he proposes a pregnancy contract. She's out of options and has no choice but to agree. Her only hope is that even though she has to give him her body, her heart will stay hers.

Slowly, Julian can't resist coming home to her, but when his enemies take her, he will kill every MF'er until she's back with him.

[Shayna · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Sinful Ruin

If you love:

🔹Morally Grey MMC
🔹Smart/Kind/Stubborn FMC
🔹Baby contract
🔹It was always her
🔹Forced proximity
🔹Age gap

This book follows Julian and Genesis, beginning with him saving her from an even darker fate—being forced into a Bratva marriage. From the start, I absolutely loved Genesis. She’s kind, strong, stubborn, and incredibly smart. And beneath all that sweetness? There’s a little bit of darkness she keeps tucked away. 😈💗

She’s been in love with Julian since she was sixteen, even though he’s spent years pretending not to notice her… until the day he steps in and rescues her. Their shared past is full of heartache and grief, but watching Genesis burrow her way into Julian’s cold, battle-scarred heart was beautiful. 🥺🖤

Julian is the type of man who would start a war—burn the whole world down—if it meant keeping her safe. And Genesis? She’s not afraid of him at all. She challenges him, speaks her mind, and never backs down. Their chemistry was explosive and the spice? Insanely delicious. 🥵🔥

The narrators, Avery Reid and Walker Williams, brought these characters to life so vividly that it made the entire story even more addictive.

I highly recommend this book and the entire series. It’s emotional, intense, and unforgettable. 💫📚

Genre/Type: Dark Romance
APK: Audio
Hours: 8h 46m
Narrators: Avery Reid & Walker Williams
Rating: 5🌟
Spice: 4🌶️
Series or Stand Alone: Lucky Kings, book 2
Tropes or themes: Age gap; best friends brother; breeding kink; morally grey/possessive/obsessive MMC; forced proximity; enemies to lovers;
Check Triggers ⚠️Death; torture; kidnapping; drugging; assault; ✨

[Kim Cass · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Genesis gets sold out to the Bratva by her own parents, her best friend’s brother Julian steps in with his own offer…have his baby and she’ll be saved from a lifetime of abuse by her potential Russian groom. But Julian is no knight in shining armour, oh no, but rather a dark and ruthless capo who seemingly has no heart. So as their deal turns into more than just baby making, they find themselves at crossroads, is this love or is this just business?

“I want to live for her. For us. For our future.”

Genesis has been through such an ordeal, losing her entire lifestyle due to the abandonment she faced from her parents, the loss of financial backing, etc but she didn’t let that get her down. She’s realistic, pragmatic, and with a heart of gold, no wonder Julian couldn’t resist her. I loved how she was so dedicated to finding Julian heart to revive it, she was such a sweetheart.

And Julian isn’t the bad man like he pretends to be. It’s so clear that despite the rough exterior, he’s trying his best to help and protect Genesis. I loved his broody and possessive side, the way he preened at the idea of coming home to Gen and how he just spoiled her everyday with what she deserved. My heart melted when he was just okay with going along to work with Gen and seeing her in her element, he felt so proud of her. This man is willing to fight for his woman, no matter the financial or physical cost, ugh swoon.

“You’re my peace, my chaos, my everything.”

Honestly, I really enjoyed this one a lot! Let’s just say, I was hooked from the very beginning and couldn’t stop binge reading cause it was so well paced, balancing the mafia drama with the romance so well. From romantic dates to emotional bonding moments, even the physical attraction between them was just HOT.

Now, this book is a part of the Lucky Kings interconnected universe as well as the Marchetti Mafia series so I do highly recommend to get through those as well cause a lot of the characters make appearances throughout and it’s always a pleasure to see our favs living their lives and expanding their families. And with Emilio (Julian’s main man) and an arranged marriage up next, I’m so sure that Sinful Hearts is going to blow me away.