Sins and Secrets

The Four Families #2

by Meg Fitzpatrick

Waverly was never cut out for the family business. While her relatives break laws, she breaks the mold as a quirky, sunshine-loving researcher with no interest in the mafia lifestyle. That’s fine, she would rather bury herself in research instead of burying bodies anyway. But when her best friend’s wedding threatens to expose the embarrassing tattoo, she’s in need of an emergency cover-up. The last person she expected to help? Lukas, her best friend’s grumpy brother and the boy who broke her heart years ago.

Lukas has worked hard to build a life and career that his emotionally distant family won’t approve of. When he reluctantly agrees to cover up Waverly’s tattoo, he’s prepared for a quick fix—not the flood of old feelings. They had a secret romance back in the day, but it all fell apart. Now, forced into proximity by the wedding, they can’t escape their unresolved past or the undeniable chemistry between them.

As the wedding draws near, Lukas’ gruff walls begin to crumble, revealing a softer side that Waverly can’t resist. And Lukas? He sees the opportunity to pick up where they left off and make Waverly his, forever.

With her dangerous family enemies closing in, old secrets resurfacing, and wedding bells looming, Waverly and Lukas have one chance to rewrite their story. Can they risk it all for a second shot at love, or will their tangled worlds tear them apart once again?

Filled with banter and humor, love and forgiveness, this is not your typical mafia romance.



She was always a good girl, until she became HIS Good Girl.

286 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 4, 2024

About the author

Meg has been writing for years but has recently taken the leap into publishing. She likes her characters to feel real and situations to feel outlandish. She lives in Maryland with her three cats, an adorable dog, husband, teenager, and Roomba that can never make its way home. Her novels have won awards, including Twin Tale Publishings Romance of the Year 2022. She is on the board of directors of the Maryland Romance Writers. She has written under the Pen Name for Meg Fitz where she writes Young Adult and New Adult romance. She also writes under the pen name Meg Fitzpatrick where she writes the Four Families Series, a mafia rom com. Both of her kickstarters were funded in under 11 minutes.

Reviews

[Helen Isabel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a fun, flirty, and heartwarming mafia romance that had me hooked from the start! Waverly, the quirky researcher who wants nothing to do with her family’s criminal world, and Lukas, the grumpy ex who still has feelings for her, make the perfect pair. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the slow-burn romance, filled with witty banter and second-chance angst, kept me smiling.

While the mafia backdrop adds a bit of drama, it’s really the emotional growth and tension between the characters that shine. It’s a fresh, charming read that delivers a perfect mix of humor, heat, and heart—just the kind of romance you need for a cozy escape!

[Suellynn Keil · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️

This book for me was so much better than the first!! I loved it.

You’ve got best friends brother, second chance romance, miscommunication, forced proximity, SPICE, and of course a sprinkle of mafia. Honestly I ate it up. I enjoyed this couple. I enjoyed their story. I also feel like we left off on a cliff hanger???? Who do we think we’ll get to read about next?

The four families series is something I will for sure continue to read. Meg really did her thing with this one!

[Lillie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Meg Fitzpatrick for allowing me to read a copy of this book. I absolutely loved my time reading this book, and I loved it even more than Shield and Savior. These characters felt real and the plot had me with a hand necklace for the entire time I read this book. I cannot recommend this series enough because I love it.

[Tracy Booktalk · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ This book should come with a warning. Start this book on a Friday! My family had take out two nights in a row. How can I say one book is better than the other? Book 1 and Book 2 are five star epic romances!
⭐️ Meg has a way of writing that makes it impossible to put this book down. You are going down one road, there’s a detour, another mystery, and now you aren’t sure if this is the right path. Suddenly something so miniscule in your past life changes the whole trajectory of where your future lies. Follow those little eggs Meg leaves you maybe you will solve the mystery.
⭐️ This is the story of Waverly and Lucas. She is an Irish mafia princess and he owns a tattoo parlour. They basically grew up together. Waverlys best friend Angie is getting married. Angie’s brother Lucas was secretly involved with Waverly five years ago but suddenly had to go away, leaving Waverly broken hearted. Now he’s in the wedding party with Waverly. Can she trust him? There is so much other stuff going on, specifically Waverlys boyfriend of three years is a total asshat. Sometimes you can lie with the devil and not even know it. Who can she trust- her three year relationship with Adam or Lucas, part of her past and her first love who broke her heart!
⭐️ This is a must read series that has my highest recommendation to read. It may be my favorite read of all time but I am on to Book 3 in the series so we will see.

[Cathy Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have ready by Meg Fitzpatrick but it won’t be the last. This story broke my heart but then put it back together. My heart hurt for Waverly and Lukas, for the situation they were placed in by no control of their own.

Communication, communication is the key to a relationship! Waverly and Lukas spent years hiding their relationship from his family and her best friend. Determined to leave Waverly something that expressed how much he loves her, Lukas left her something for her to find after he is gone. Waiting, and reaching out for weeks, he never heard back from her. Assuming, she had no feelings for him after all that time he became angry and picked his life up and went on. Waverly, heartbroken when she went to the desk and only found a receipt with nothing telling or showing her anything to explain what Lukas meant, so he didn’t love her like she loved him. Giving in and listening to everyone around her, Waverly picks up her broken heart and moves on.

Thrown back into the family folds, Waverly and Lukas finds themselves face to face after so many years and pieces begin to fall in place, the hurt and betrayal. All the years they lost together simply because they didn’t use words to communicate their true feelings.

This is an incredible story and I can’t wait to see what comes next!

[Yana Lately · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so much fun to read. Although I’m not a big fan of the miscommunication trope, this book did it well. Lukas—the black sheep met Waverly in his teens as she would always frequent his mother’s house (she’s also best friends with his sister). His family treated him poorly, and he did his best to look invisible, but was instantly drawn to Waverly because of her humor/kindness towards him. They kept their relationship discreet, and he visited her every summer for many years until they had to part ways for college.

I love Waverly’s character. She’s kind but knows how to stand up for herself. She also knows what she likes, and I love how Lukas lets her explore her kinks with him. These two had me giggling my butt off the entire time, I LOVE THEM BOTH!


“In every version of our story I love you. I never stopped.”

Vibes:
• Grumpy x Sunshine
• Childhood lovers/second chance
• Mafia RomCom
• Researcher x Tattoo artist
• Brother’s ex/sister’s bestfriend
• “It’s always been you”

I received an ARC of this title by the author in exchange for my honest review.

[Brayzen Bookwyrm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the perfect follow-up to the Shield and Savior. Familar characters are back, along with some brand new faces. Waverly and Lukas’s HEA is hard-fought but absolutely perfect. And yes, Mafia RomCom is a thing. And it comes together perfectly in this series! The number of gasps, snortlaughs, and aaawwws in this book was pretty spectacular. While Sins and Secrets can be read as a standalone, it is much more enjoyable within the context of the series. And since it’s book two, it’s a perfect binge enabler.

What I love about it:

Steamy second chance chemistry

So much snark. The humor is on point

Powerhouse female characters with major girl-gang energy

Swoony, fully-invested male lead

Female lead who claims her power and identity

Undercurrent of mystery & intrigue that ties characters together

Emotional investment right from the start

Fast-paced energy

Lots of fantastic twists

Engaging side characters with so much depth

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very engaging book that was heavy on spice with a sprinkle of Mafia darkness. The main characters had a history that played into the current day story. As a result, there are occasional flashbacks, though they are well placed and make perfect sense in context. Once I was under the spell Meg wove into the pages, I was hooked through the last page. There were so many issues trying to wedge themselves between Lukas and Waverly, I felt sorry for them both. My heart, however, truly went out to Lukas. All the loss and hatred he'd experienced had me wanting to give him a huge hug. Waverly, however had me covered!!

I did receive a gift copy of this book and am happy to leave this review. I hope you give this book a try. It's a nice, soft introduction to D/s without going overboard, and the drama plot is a wonderful pick-up from where Sins and Savior left off. Wonder which of the families will be represented next?!

[Suzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, I’m officially depressed!! Because Book 3 isn’t available on audiobook yet! 😩
This series has completely hooked me. The storyline is fantastic, and the characters are so vibrant and interesting. Someone once described it as The Sopranos meets The Golden Girls, and honestly, that’s the perfect description. I can see this playing out as a hilarious and heartfelt TV series in my head. It’s packed with drama, comedy, and romance, all wrapped up in one fabulous package.
Important: This is pure Rom-Com goodness, not a dark romance. And I love it even more because of that! The narrators are phenomenal, giving each character a distinct voice and making the story even more addictive. This series is now an instant one-click buy for me, both in print and audio. I’m praying Book 3 is already in the works because I cannot wait to see where this story goes! Highly recommend if you want a fresh, funny, and fabulous Rom-Com series.

[Kiki · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a arc review but my thoughts on this will be honest!

This is my first read from this author and I am definitely interested in reading more from her, starting with the first book in the series.

Starting out, I honestly thought I was going to DNF this in the very beginning, because I was a little confused and some of the language didn’t make sense to me; but I pushed through and kept reading and found my self very interested in this.

I like the different approach to the mafia trope, the cinnamon roll type of mafia! I really liked the main characters Waverly and Lukas you learn so much about them in such a short time! I also love how badass Waverly is and how she didn’t let things get to her including her no good ex who happens to be Lukas’ brother! I’m very interested to continue the rest of the series!

[Yvonne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a super fun book. It is a Mafia Romcom. It is not dark and is meant to be something that you can space out and enjoy and it absolutely hit its mark. This is the second book in a standalone interconnected series. Each of the four books tells a story about a couple in each of the Four Families.

I received this book as an ARC and honestly, I wasn’t expecting it, don’t remember signing up for up, and it isn’t the type of book I would normally sign up for. That being said, I am glad that I got it because it was cute and such a great easy quick read. The subject matter is pretty light and honestly, the humor was spot on for me.

[Julie Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first time reading this author, the blurb pulled me, and story hooked me. I want to call this mafia very light! Not quite a romcom, but plenty of light moments and humor. An easy fast paced read.

Waverly and Luka have a story, no more of a journey! She is independent, confident, and knows herself. She and Luka have a history but they go in different directions, only to be pulled together again for his sister’s wedding.

We have surprises, obstacles and plenty of swoon worthy moments, I need to go back and read the first book, so I am ready for the next one!

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.

[Nrsk8tireads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am *loving* this series by Meg Fitzpatrick!! I've had the honor of meeting Meg at 2 book events now and she's fabulous. Her Four Families series is filled with complex, fun characters, and overarching plot through the series of four mafia families fighting against a villainous drug called Majesty, and the strong women who really run things behind the scenes. Waverly and Lukas are past loves who fell apart due to disastrous miscommunication and broken hearts. When an upcoming wedding brings them back together, and puts Waverly beneath Lukas's hands and tattoo equipment, things get steamy again. Absolutely fabulous!!!

[Amanda M · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect follow up to the previous book even though it can be read as a standalone. Waverly and Lukas's journey to HEA is filled with surprises. The humor is on point in this, placed throughout the story nicely. You've got fierce female characters and a FMC coming into her own. Then there's the main male character who's invested from the beginning, total swoon worthy at that. This second chance romance has lots of twists too. Excellent character development, storyline and plot. An amazing read.

[thebeespot72 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meg Fitzpatrick’s “Sins and Secrets” is a fun blend of Mafia and Rom-Com—and it worked pretty well. Though I didn’t read the first book, I had no problem following the story or picking up the characters mentioned that I was supposed to know. Some sensitive themes are touched up, but you should be fine if you’re used to reading Dark Mafia. I did like the second chance aspect for Waverly and Luka, but the reason for their separation was that it was challenging for me to get behind fully. Overall, it was pretty entertaining.

[Stacey Kelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sins and Secrets is the second book in the The Four Families series. This book gives us the second chance romance of Waverly and Lukas.

This was a cute, fun read. Mafia and comedy don’t often go hand in hand, but this was a hit. It has a good balance between spice and plot with well-developed characters. There’s also a touch of mystery and suspense that crosses over amongst all the books. So while this can be read as a stand alone, it’s better to read them in order. Meg is great at keeping out interest piqued for the next book.

[Sammi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series. Currently I would say read these in order.

I enjoyed Waverly and Lukas book a lot. This book is a second chance romance. I would say friends to lovers but you have to read it to understand.

If you dislike Dom/Sub in your book don’t pick it up. If this just piqued your interest go ahead a take a peak inside the book.

With that being said this is a book and not real life. It’s Waverlys and Lukas story and trust me it’s crazy and when I was finished I had more questions and I’m waiting for book 3 so maybe I’ll get answers!

[Meekilovesbooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author, and for that, I'm thankful for the opportunity to free book 2 of this family crime saga. This story is my first mob romance book, and I was expecting more crime and violence, but I got more romance and a little too much spice for me.

The story was interesting. The main characters were complex due to the miscommunication between them as well as the adults in the family. The writing style is good. The plot was good, also. Just not what I expected. 3.5 stars for me.

[Hannah Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Waverly and Lukas’s story! Seeing how she really came into herself and found her voice and what she wanted in life was amazing. I listened to the audiobook for this and oh my gosh the narrators did sooo good!! They brought so much life and character to the story. Finding out about her tattoo finally and how she got it was crazy. I was so mad for her! Highly recommend this series and I can’t wait to see what’s next for it.

[Janette Gellar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm trying to decide if it's the massive bomb of chemistry between Lucas and Waverly but the spice level on Book 2 is much hotter than book 1. It also could have been Christian Leatherman's performance but the voice actors were absolutely perfect! Waverly is the perfect pretty princess and she's coming into her own independence. Lucas is right there ready to give her all the support and tell her what a "good girl" she is (so HOT!)

[Sarah Havener · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great sequel! This one was a bit more serious, but it had great dry humor and the spice was hot!! This is how you do an intro to bdsm! There was one person especially easy to hate, and the end was chef's kiss. I liked the gradual flow into the next book. I also liked the tie-ins to the first book.

[Bergströms Bookshelf · Rating 2 out of 5]

Quickly got really and truly cringeworthy on so many levels.
Expected grumpy introvert vs sassy sunshine vibes but instead got brooding Alpha-jerk vs whiney cringe girl that can’t act her age. I’m not a fan.
DNF:ed after a few hours of this. Too bad.
Narration. Ok -but not particularly smooth or enjoyable.

[Emily Paris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secret Kinks

Waverly and Lukas were each other's dirty little secret until communication fell apart. 5 years later they are thrust back together and the spark reignites. Lukas allows Waverly to explore all her kinks and stand on her own within the family. The banter is great, the story is getting more complex, and of course the women rule the world. Enjoy

[Arianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a fun “cozy mafia” romance! Was nice break compared to other mafia books you typically read. Although Waverly wasn’t actively in the family business, you still got snippets of it. My true rating is 3.5 stars, but I can’t put half stars. I did feel the ending was a bit rushed and didn’t love the cliffhanger, but I enjoyed it enough to want to continue on the series at some point!

[Jessturnpages · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute misunderstanding lucking it’s cleared up quick and she is me about the cake 🎂

[Andrea Brink · Rating 5 out of 5]

The audiobook is chefs kiss! Meg’s books never disappoint and I am 100% here for this one. The push/pull. The TENSION!? 🥵

[Denisha’s Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was some of the best angst I have read this year. I love Meg’s writing and her ability to showcase the growth and struggle of her characters. I loved the communication in this book so much.

[Liz Sadowsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Waverly and Lukas’ story is a wonderful page turning read. These two have a history, but due to a misunderstanding have moved on in separate directions. When they get pulled back into the family dynamic because of his sister’s wedding the sparks begin to fly. How they work through all the obstacles placed before them to find their HEA is a really sweet and heartfelt read.