Addictive Love

The Deathly Love #1

by Black Rose, da Knight

AHANA STOKES
Her life has just been uprooted and her world altered. Now, she is forced to fit herself into a new and unknown place. When her family packs bags and moves to Arlington, Ahana is unaware of all that is waiting for her on the other side. Balancing life and school, she finds herself in some really troubled situations.

GABRIEL LEE MILLER
He had his life uprooted years ago, when he was just a kid. That one tragic night, changed his life as he knew it. Now, he is entirely someone else and dead-set on not letting anyone into his dark world, full of lies, secrets and deceits. Especially, after the ones he loved left him behind to shoulder the burden alone.

What happens when the two of them collide? Will they find their way to each other or will half truths and hidden lies entangle them in its dangerous and inescapable web?

This is the first book in The Deathly Love Series and is a high school, mafia romance. Some contents might be triggering for some readers. Read the content warning before proceeding further.

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 18, 2024

About the author

Born in a world of high expectations, the author never deters from proving her worth to anyone who questions her ability to sustain and thrive. Black Rose is here with her debut novel to make her readers a part of her imaginary world.
A world where anything and everything is possible and attainable. She is an author with a penchant for deadly twists and unforeseeable plot. Writer who lives vicariously through her characters.
Join her on her odyssey!

Reviews

[Abi · Rating 1 out of 5]

A bit shocked by the reviews. This book needs some heavy editing (e.g. shelfs) and in its entirety is furthered only by unnecessary, cliche dialogue. You cannot just jump from being in a store to sitting on the couch by saying “I reached home.” A length of time should not pass by in a matter of a few words.

The structure is not good and the sentences make no sense. I will add some direct quotes and you can decide for yourself:

“I guess someone is coming to live here after all, huh,” I murmur to myself while I stay in the car, still standing at the opposite end of the road from the house, to take a look at it.
Aren’t you in the car?

Reviving the engine in a minute or two, I head back. On my way, I halt at gift shop to buy one for Connor, knowing the next few days will pass by like scalded cat.
Halt at gift shop? Buy one of what? A gift shop? A scalded cat? What?

I reach home and mood is soured by his presence. “Hey, boy!” “Ugh…”, I roll my eyes at him.
Whose mood? Who is he?

I seriously don’t understand what it is with father, which makes him go full Adolf Hitler on the two of us.
No comment.

This needs some really good editing. Not a single scene was described; it was all just dialogue I expect to have read in a 2012 Wattpad fiction.

This is why I take ARC reviews with a grain of salt.

[Ré ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

There comes a time in one’s life where they realize what they knew, what they have known for a long time, was all a lie.

Date: 2024/10/26-2024/10/31
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Fiction, Thriller, Mystery, Crime
Rating: ★★★
Spice rating: 🌶
Age rating (I think): 17+

TIGGER WARNINGS: Death of parent, Sexual content, Violence, Guns, Death, Sexual assault, Cursing, Murder, Blood, Injury

Thank you for the e-copy from the authors in exchange for an honest review.

SPOILER FREE REVIEW

First, what you can expect from this book:

- enemies to lovers (dislike/hate to love)
- highschool romance (academic rivals)
– good girl x had boy
– some maffia inffulence
– character-driven
– Dual POV
– fast-paced & exciting
– teenager drama
– found family
– cute friendships & journey of healing

This is usually the part where I’d share how much I enjoyed the book and how excited I am for the next one, but I’m afraid I can’t genuinely say that this time.

I read this book specifically to give an honest review, and while the whole concept was promising and the tropes were right and captiving, it just didn’t work out for me this time the way I hoped.

Maybe it's me, maybe it's not, no matter how you have to go through this, not everything can be perfect.

By the way, I surprisingly liked Ahana's character, she was a real fire (she even had a gentle side), determined and proud, not the kind of girl who just stops doing things. I think as a female protagonist she was perfect, she had flaws, she had wounds, everything it that made her realistic.

Gabriel, on the other hand, didn’t grow on me as much as I expected. I often struggle to connect with male characters, especially those with obsessive or alpha traits, so maybe I didn’t fully open up to him. However, I do appreciate his loyalty to Ahana, he was there for her, protected her, loved her in her worst moments, and trusted her when everything was on the line.

For me, the romance felt a bit like insta-love. There was tension, spark, and hatred at first, but the chemistry seemed to fade too quickly.

The plot was fairly predictable (rather it had a ton of chlisé), perhaps too much, but for a long afternoon reading on a gloomy day it is perfect, I liked the atmosphere itself. Most of the characters were different, with different motivations and goals (well, about Cameron, I hope he just rotting in hell). What I really liked were the friendships! Real boundless and infinitely innocent friendships, especially Ahana and Liam's. The world building itself was easy, you don't have to think about much - I didn't either, it was just right. That brings me to the writing style. This is the author’s first book, so I won’t be too critical here. In my opinion, they both still needs to improve in this area, but I can see the potential and the will in them, after all Rome was not built in a day either. Also there were a couple of spelling errors and other issues that needed correction, but they weren't disturbing.

The ending felt a bit quick and abrupt (but that could be just me), however we got a cliffhanger, which honestly was a great move.

I recommend it to those who want to relive their last year of high school, their first true love, who long for something darker, something lighter on a rainy day.

[Nidhi · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐

Thank you once again for the opportunity to read and review Addictive Love. Your talent as a writer shines through in this captivating story.

The FMC was so bold and sassy, making her character truly amazing. The MMC was also impressive, leaving me in awe. I appreciated how the author also gave importance to the side characters, which added depth to the story.

The rollercoaster ride of emotions, tension, chemistry, push and pull, and the grovel in their relationship kept me hooked until the end. I especially loved the dynamic between the characters and their friendships. The unexpected ending left me both surprised and intrigued.

I am eagerly anticipating the release of the second book in the series and cannot wait to continue reading more of your work.

[Ensorcelled · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @ 10%
Oooof...this is bad. Terrible spelling and grammar, incorrect word choices, and overly clunky sentence structure that made it difficult to keep reading. Author is in dire need of more seasoning and experience, plus a competent editor. Like, she needs an editor RIGHT NOW.

As for the positive ARC reviews...come on now. There's a reason people don't trust them, and it's because too many ARC reviewers are afraid to tell the truth and offend the author, or else they outright lie. Heads up, you aren't doing anything but helping to rip people off when recommending books they will likely DNF and return. Do better.

[Jung · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arc review 💝

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice:1.5/ 2 🌶️

Tropes:
Mafia
Enemies to lovers
Academic rivals
Boy obsessed
Highschool romance
He rides bike 🔥
Good girl X Bad boy

This book was the author's debut novel and I enjoyed it so much reading the book 😁.

Ahana (fmc) is a strong feisty girl who never put herself down, I really like her character in the book 💝💝💗. I love the way she fights with Gabriel(mmc)🤣

Gabriel (mmc) is a cold hearted guy who never dates any girl but once he meets Ahana he can't take his eyes on her.🔥

On the first starting only they hated each other but they can't ignore the attraction and they was sexual tension between them🔥💗. I love how Gabriel was there for her when she had trauma and he took care of her🫶. I love the side characters, their friends who are also there for them and tease them 🤣. I like the relationship between Ahana and her family 💗 and Ava who is Ahana's younger sister, I hope she gets her own book and ends up with Conner 😭. And the grovelling 🔥
This book gets darker as the story goes on so be careful 💀 this end with an cliffhanger. I can't wait for the next book.

🚩 No cheating, mild ow/om drama , killing, sexual assault

This is for those who love Mafia, enemies to lovers & with good plot 🔥😁

[Simran · Rating 4 out of 5]

What the hell ?!!! When is the next book coming?!!!!!
Omgggg the cliffhanger, I did not see that coming.

I’m a sucker for boy obsessed trope and that’s what made me want to pick up this book and this book served on that trope.
Ahana, the sassy fmc absolutely became my fav since the moment she stood up to Gabriel and Samantha. Gabriel who never dates or sleeps around can’t stop thinking about Ahana since they met. There is also academic rivals in this book that I didn’t see coming, I really liked the side characters too, especially Liam 🙈🤭 and the bromance >>>>
There were certain scenes where the book felt predictable and cliché but I still loved it.
I am excited and a little confused (in a good way) on how the book ended and I really wanna know what’s gonna happen next.

This is a great read if you like:
Mafia romance
Enemies to lovers
Banter
Boy Obsessed
Grovelling
High school romance
Found family

3.75 -4 ⭐️

[Rashmi · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW💖
Thank you for the ARC. I loved reading it. I recommend it to the mafia lovers with a good enemies to lovers.

Tropes
✨Mafia romance
✨Enemies to lovers
✨High school romance
✨He's obsessed with her
✨Good girl x Bad boy


I loved the book. It has all my favourite tropes. It has mix of all. Enemies to lovers ensured that the banter to be wonderful. I loved them being academic rivals and the high school setting.
For heaven's sake, he rides a bike. Can anything be hotter than that. The constant teasing and the character development were great.
I loved that being a mafia romance, it had its cute moments which made me swoon.
I would recommend all the romance lovers to read it.
Ahana and Gabriel 💖 are a swoon worthy couple.

[Bookish_weirdos Readoholics · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW.
ADDICTIVE LOVE THE DEATHLY LOVE SERIES. BY BLACK ROSE AND DA KNIGHT is an enthralling journey into the depths of love and darkness.This book delves into the complexities of relationships intertwined with elements of mystery and intrigue. The authors skillfully craft a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, blending romance with a touch of the unknown. The characters are richly developed in their world of passion and danger.
I am obsessed with them, rose, and Da Knight writing style shines through creating a gripping story that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next instalment in The Deathly Love Series
AHANA & GABRIEL WAS PERFECT

100 PERFECT RECOMMENDED TO EVERYONE BECAUSE OF ITS MUX OF ALL TROPES.

I hope this review captures the essence of addictive love from the Deathly Love series ❤️

[Chhaya · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Love is not found, it's fought for."

Gabriel, I luv you I really do but why did you break my heart like that😭. I'm still dealing with impact of last 2 chapters. Let's keep it aside and talk about book.

Addictive Love is first book in The Deathly Love Series by Black Rose & Da Knight which features Ahana Stokes and Gabriel Lee Miller, their way to being lovers from enemies and their love-hate relationship with some twists, turns, friendship, betrayal, and lies.

I loved Gabriel's and Ahana's banter from the start and her comebacks were always awesome. I actually learned some comebacks from her to use later.

Gabriel is hot, attentive, jealous, biker boy, possessive, sweet only for her, and caring person. There's a lot more in his personality which you'll know after reading.

Ahana is smart, pretty, caring, quirky, sassy, only have eyes for him, determined, and a beautiful by heart person. I love this girl a lot. I love her friendship with her friends and her relationship with her sister and parents is my favourite part.

There were many moments in the book which I loved but I won't explain those moments because of known reasons. I loved plot, storyline, character portrayal.

Overall, I adored the book and really want you to meet Gabriel and Ahana.

Some of my favourite quote mentioned below!!

💗"I would recognize you along a million."

💖"He tastes like sin. And God don't I want to commit it."

💗"Shut Up or I'll do it for you."

💖"There's nowhere I'd rather be than by your daughter's side, Mrs. Stokes."

💗"He made me feel seen. And I saw him. Only him."

💖"I will fight for you, enough for the both of us."

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Rating - 🌶🌶

Oh Jesus! This book, right here left me hanging so bad, it's been 2 days since I completed the book and I'm still processing what happened!! All that was left behind were little hints left for us to survive, while for next book which I can't wait to read.

✨ Tropes -

🖤 Enemies To Lovers
🖤 High School Romance
🖤 Mafia
🖤 Bad Boy x Good Girl
🖤 Academic Rivals
🖤 MMC Obsessed with FMC

From the start the FMC, Ahana Stokes and the MMC, Gabriel Lee Miller were at each others throats, the banter, the obsession, the rivalry, the chemistry between was so high that it can cutted with a knife. And I loved the way storyline, the plot and the characters developed throughout the book. Not to forget, I loved the way she was able to adapt in with all the new people at her new school and new city. Our Ahana is a savage through & through. 💕

What left a mark on me personally, first was the connections that the main characters had with their family and friends and specially Ahana with her sister. And secondly, the plot twist left my eyes sobbing & mouth agape, only left with one question for the author - "WHY?"

To conclude, I loved, cherished and enjoyed the book to the fullest and I'm so eager to read the next one. Thank you Black Rose for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this beautiful book of yours.

🖤🖤🖤

[Katebooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel like the name says everything for me. Because this book got me hooked from the very first line and I was addicted to it

Thank you baby for creating this amazing masterpiece of a book because I am addicted indeed.

The banter between the characters was amazing, that is something important to me or else I would be bored to death.

But you made it so good. I cried too, thanks for the tears, but this book was so raw and beautiful written. You can fall in love with the characters so far. I fell in love with Liam sorry. I need more of him.

But Gabriel and Ahana are just so perfect. She is a sassy girl for sure and I love that about her. But I can't deny everytime Liam came I was giggling and shit hehehe.
The enemies to lovers was so good. I love when they really hate each other but they want it too. lykyk

I don't like talking much about the inside of the book because I want everyone to experience their own version. This book is amazing in all forms, but I want you to dive into it the way I did and bite your nails the way I did, and cry too.

Rose you have a fan here of your amazing work. Whatever you write in the future please contact me cuz I would buy it in a blink.

[Pranithaa (bookedwithpran) · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐-4.5/5
🌶️-4.5/5

“𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙄𝙨 𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙁𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙, 𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙁𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙁𝙤𝙧..."

Happy release day @blackxoxorose 🎉 🎉 The first line >>> I was hooked from the first line .This was an amazing debut - an outstanding mix of mafiaish theme with high school romance . The angst and the tension... God I was biting my nails the whole time.

Ahana is one of the sassiest FMC I've ever seen. She's strong and feisty. Knows what she wants and she never hesitates to speak up.Her life is being changed when her family moves to Arlington. Well if this is not enough add boy obsessed to the mix.....

Gabriel lost his mother at young age. He's determined not to let anyone in . But seeing Ahana changes everything he wants her but fights to every fibre to keep her away. But a man can have only little resistance right?? But when he loves her loves HARD

The chemistry between them was>>3 The banters the push and pull it made me like the author's writing more and more.Well what will happen if his dark world comes in between them?? Will they survive?

❗this book end in cliffhanger ❗

[Arcane_ Scribbling · Rating 4 out of 5]

"She just came into my life out of bloody nowhere and made a chaos of it. And I am fucking enjoying this chaos."

This is the first book in the deathly love series GABRIEL and AHANA❣️

This book 📚 is so good 😘 and it's my first book of an indie author and I got hooked while reading this .

This is a story of GABRIEL and AHANA ❣️ who are high school students and hate each other first but attracted at the same time....

This book is a perfect mixture of love, kindness, anger, and obsession 😍🤌🏻. It also gives the nostalgic teenage feeling of loving relationship ❤️

Although, the other characters in the book are also the best ....the friendship, the time they spend each other, the banter everything is just🫶🏻

It also has the mafia twist which is more interesting 🙌🏻

Overall, I highly recommend this book. This is beautifully crafted and it gets you hooked while touching your heart with a twisting plot.

Waiting for the next one because now I can't wait to know what happened next.....

🌶️🌶️

[Maria Hussain · Rating 5 out of 5]

☆•••ARC REVIEW•••☆
Finished at 5am yesterday and I’m fucked. This book literally fucked my life up! I’m an addict and this series is going to be my new drug of choice. I AM OBSESSED!!!

Ahana and Gabriel's story was my FIRE with flames that blazed and burned...DETONATING ME. The chemistry between Ahana and Gabriel, polar opposites in looks but kindred souls, is COMBUSTIBLE.

They are fire and ice. The push and pull between them is PALPABLE. I loved Ahana and Gabriel together. I wanted to both hug and hit some much-needed sense into them.

I smiled ... swooned ... cried ... frowned ...sighed ... and wanted to gut-punch a character or two. This ROLLER COASTER of a ROMANCE was my RUSH, this riveting ride in words, where I could do nothing except hold on tight as my soul soared and shattered so many times. This book BROKE ME IN THE BEST WAY!!!

With the way things ended, i can't wait to read the next book..

[Pà · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was full of energy and I really enjoyed reading it. Ahana was bold, feisty and funny, she never let anyone push her down, and Gabriel was cold but intense. Their banter was sharp, the tension was strong, and the chemistry kept burning through the pages. The side characters actually felt important and not just background, which made me smile. The cliffhanger left me shocked and honestly a little frustrated, but also excited for the next book. A solid 4 stars. Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.

[Celina Rosa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Addictive Love follows Ahana, the strong and sassy FMC who takes no nonsense from anyone especially Gabriel the dark and mysterious MMC who never dates but definitely has a thing for Ahana. Ahana and Gabriel have great banter and tension which had me rooting for them but with so many secrets in Gabriels's life their relationship will be put to the test. This book gives everything you could want in a mafia romance mystery, betrayal, twists and turns that will keep you needing to find out what is going to happen next. I highly recommend you read this story with its great main characters, but the funny and supportive characters will also grab your attention and leave you wanting to know more about them as well. I am anxiously waiting for the next book in this series especially with the way this book ended I definitely need answers.

[A3therOracle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Beginning was good I enjoyed it but I did not expect Smut in a highschool set novel which felt weird to read about.

[Zephyr · Rating 3 out of 5]

• *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧ •

ARC REVIEW

⭑⭑⭑.5


The book was a good, fun read with plenty of moments that kept me engaged. One of my favorite aspects was the witty banter between the main characters—it added a layer of playfulness to the story that I truly enjoyed.

I especially loved how Gabriel fought for his love and stayed steadfast in his mission to win Ahana back. His determination made his character really stand out to me. And Ahana? I absolutely adored her fiery, feisty side! She wasn’t afraid to speak her mind or stand up for herself, which made her such a relatable and strong lead.

On a personal note, I felt connected to their journey. The ups and downs, the push and pull, felt real, and it reminded me how love sometimes requires effort, patience, and understanding.


• *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧ •

kisses & hugs, zahra | 🫶🏻💋

[Olivia Aguilar · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, after reading the book, and then the reviews that others have posted, I still loved this book. It’s definitely been one of my favorites within this year and it’s the book that got me out of my reading slump, I honestly think this novel isn’t getting more attention and I don’t care about what other people say about this one. I have nothing bad to say about it, maybe the only thing would be that I wanted more because it was impossible to put down. ❤️❤️

[Brit.Readz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given the opportunity to read this early. I enjoyed the story line and as the book kept progressing it got better and of course more dark. This does leave on a cliff so book 2 should be exciting!

The MMC Gabriel is against the idea of dating but when Ahana and him meet they can’t seem to get away from the attraction!

I can’t give too much but the relationship building and the story was great! As a debut novel this was great. If we’re being honest there’s a few things that could be adjusted to elevate the writings! Overall i recommend!

[Kat Šprem · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a 3.5 for me.. maybe I'm too old for a teen drama, but I found a bit hard to believe that kne highschool boy would be in that kind of situation, and have that kind if enemy.. assuming he's 17/18? We're not told their exact age, just that is their final year at highschool.. and writing style was a bit odd for me, I struggled at times to figure out who is saying what.. all in all it was a good story, but think it's for a younger audience maybe..

[Simran · Rating 4 out of 5]

OMG! This was such an amazing book! I had the chance to be part of the ARC team for this one and it didn’t disappoint at all. The plot, the setting and the character was just amazing !
Gave it a 4 starts rather than 5 as I felt like I had a slow read for this one after a book slump bit other than that is just a wonderful read!

[Bhagyashree Roy · Rating 5 out of 5]

•High School Romance
•Mafia Romance
•Enemies To Lovers
•Grumpy × Sunshine
🌻 Ahana Stokes never expected her world to change so drastically. When her family suddenly relocates to Arlington, she's thrown into unfamiliar territory, grappling with new challenges and facing the pressures of fitting in. Between balancing school and navigating the complexities of her new life, Ahana soon finds herself caught in situations more troubling than she could have imagined.

🔪 Gabriel Lee Miller has been living in the shadows of his past for years. After a tragic night shattered his childhood, he’s built walls around his heart, determined to keep everyone out. His world is one of secrets, lies, and painful memories, and he's convinced no one can understand the darkness he's been left to face alone.

When Ahana and Gabriel's paths cross, their lives become entangled in ways they never expected. Can they break through the barriers of their pasts and find solace in one another, or will the half-truths and hidden lies pull them deeper into a web of danger and deceit?

I WILL ALWAYS LOVE MAFIA ROMANCE AND I WAS SO DOWN BAD ROOTING FOR THEM AND PLUS IT WAS GRUMPY × SUNSHINE🤭 & ENEMIES TO LOVERS DAMNNN 😝

My favourite trope hehe. I was completely shocked by the ending and I'm already so eager to read the sequel

[Caged Soul · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I will fight for you, enough for both of us"

Rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️. 75
Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶

Ahaan and Gaberial.. (My Gabby)

Get your tissue boxes ready for it. Because this is a cliffhanger and that will gonna make you cry..

Tropes

🖤 Enemies to lovers
🖤 High school Romance
🖤 Mafia Romance
🖤 Good Girl x Bad Boy
🖤 Academic Rivals
🖤 Obsessed and Possessive MMC

As the trope suggests Enemies to lovers, you'll see it totally, both are onto each other's throats.

The banter was apt and the tension when they want to cross the line but the have to realise that they are Enemies, that phase was so delightful to read.

Ahana sexy, sassy and bold, she knows what she wants and she will make it clear to everyone.

Gabby, i love him but oh boy what he did was still hurting my heart... He is closed off due to what he has been through at Young age.

But Ahana entered his life like a chaos, and he was maddeningly aware of it as he felt he was losing control.

The steam, the denial and the constant push and pull was so beautiful.. I loved how things took such a beautiful turn when their hatred started to bloom in something vibrant.

You will love it. You will love the entire storyline and I hate author for the cliffhanger. You can't do this to us.

I need book 2 asap.. please.. 🥺🥺

[Monika · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Addictive Love" by Black Rose & da Knight is serving pure chaos, and I’m 100% here for it. Imagine a cocktail of mafia drama, enemies-to-lovers tension, and main characters who carry just enough emotional baggage to keep you screaming, “therapy, please!”

The prologue? ICONIC. Gabriel’s inner monologue about bloody shoes (RIP limited edition kicks) had me cackling, but then BAM – you’re hit with dark vibes and mafia secrets. Gabriel’s got that “too hot for prison” energy, and Ahana? She’s the relatable queen dealing with moving cities, nosy neighbors, and teenage life while radiating main character energy.

And let’s talk spice. It’s dark, twisty, and keeps you wondering who’s gonna snap next. The vibes are immaculate, the stakes are high, and the playlist is chef’s kiss, imagine reading mafia drama to Neoni and Lady Gaga.

But fair warning: this book is not all fluff and butterflies. It dips into darker waters (check those trigger warnings), but if you’re a sucker for toxic dynamics, dangerous love, and characters who stay messy AF, this one’s a whole vibe.

Grab your popcorn and clear your schedule because this book is an emotional rollercoaster with zero brakes. 11/10 would recommend if you’re ready to embrace the chaos and maybe cry a little.

[Jocelyn Delarosa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Book Rating: ⭐ 2.5/5
Spice Rating: 🌶️ 1/5

Addictive Love had a concept and tropes I usually love, enemies to lovers, academic rivals, good girl x bad boy, even some mafia influence, but the execution fell short for me. The foundation was there, but the story felt predictable and at times choppy, and I struggled with the dialogue, which leaned more childish than realistic, even for a high school setting.

Ahana was easily the strongest part of this book for me. She was fiery, determined, and held her own, making her a solid female lead with both strengths and flaws. Gabriel, on the other hand, never really grew on me. While his loyalty and devotion to Ahana were admirable, their romance felt rushed into insta-love territory, and the chemistry fizzled out too quickly.

There were editing and pacing issues that pulled me out of the story, and I often found myself wishing it had gone through more refinement. Still, the friendships stood out as a bright spot, and I can see the potential for growth in future works from the author.

This one just wasn’t quite for me, but if you’re looking for a darker, high school rivals-to-lovers story with strong friendships woven in, it may be worth a try.

[Simsimreadss · Rating 4 out of 5]

💋💋💋💋/5

If you love
Enemies to lovers
Mafias
Academic rivals
Boy obsessed
High school romance
He rides bike
Write letters
She gets roses
Good girl × bad boy
Teasing
Forehead kisses
And a good banter

Then this book is perfect for you

It's a debut novel and I must say our author did an amazing job while writing . Dialogue delivery was perfect. Building the chemistry BTW the characters was awesome. Love the way they had banter in the first go . It was like an ooooooo moment

If we talk about the main characters oh my gosh our FMC damn Alana my baby I love you my savage kween hehehe. And our MMC our Chico man Gabriel slay slay slay my love 💋. Love the way she answers him back it was "yay go my girly" moment.

Overall, the hatred then that sexual tension BTW them. Ahhh the best. Those teasing like *me giggling* . Even the side characters were awesome rose gave them a good importance in the book and they left a beautiful impact in our brain. I am excited for book 2 I hope it's coming soon heheheheheh.


Thank you for the arc rosey it means a lot 🥰🥰🥰🥰

[Olivia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Addictive Love ARC Review ❤️🖤

This book follows Ahana, a 17-year-old girl who moves to a now town due to her Father’s job. In this town she attends a neighbours party where she bumps into Gabriel, a grumpy teen who seems to be (at first-glance) rude and standoffish. Will he change? Why is he the way he is? This book follows the pair and their complex relationship.

Is all what it seems?

💚 I enjoyed the close friendships in this book; especially Liam’s and Ahana’s.

💚 There was humour in the right places and tension where it needed to be.

💚 Ahaha’s family was loveable, especially her sister.

❤️ I did however find the ending to be somewhat rushed it seemed, which bothered me and threw me off a little.

❤️ There were a couple of grammatical errors.

🤍 Smut is present in this book, but not a lot and I would class it as pretty tame.

🤍 The Mafia trope in this book is not throughout and I would class it as more of a micro-trope.

💚= Pros
❤️=Cons
🤍= Neutral notes

This book does end on a cliffhanger 🛑

[Kaitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

❤️‍🔥Addictive Love❤️‍🔥

“You taste heavenly,”

“And you taste like absolute sin.”

𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝓢𝓹𝓲𝓬𝓮:🌶️
𝚁𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚢: 𝙾𝚄𝚃 𝙽𝙾𝚆

❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

Really enjoyed this one.
Most of the time it’s hard to get into books about teens for me personally and I generally stay away from them just because I’m an adult and prefer for my characters to be over the age of 18 but this was so good!

I was so invested and didn’t want it to end. I love a good slow burn/hate to love. It makes the romance so much more satisfying to me when the characters finally have their moment of realization that they’re meant to be.

I loved watching the progression of Gabriel and Ahana’s relationship. She brought him to place he never thought was possible. We all should be able to love and be loved.

The ending was completely unexpected and I swear my jaw was on the floor the last 3 chapters. You’re going to want the second book immediately.

❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

[Kristiyana St · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book completely rekindled my love for mafia romance. Addictive Love is everything I want in an enemies-to-lovers story — tension, banter, danger, and those “touch her and die” vibes that make your heart race. It’s set in high school, but the writing treats the characters and their emotions with depth and maturity, making the setting feel believable rather than cliché.

The bad-boy-meets-good-girl dynamic is executed perfectly, with chemistry so intense you can’t help but root for them. The emotional rollercoaster had me laughing one minute, crying the next, and actually jumping out of my seat in excitement. It’s the kind of book that makes you feel everything — love, frustration, heartbreak, joy — all at once.

If you’re into high-stakes romance with gripping character dynamics, perfectly balanced sweetness and heat, and a storyline that keeps you glued from the first page to the last, this is an absolute must-read.