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The Underworld #1
Bride by Initiation: The Underworld, Book 1
From International bestselling author Maggie Cole comes her highly anticipated secret society, deliciously dark, next-generation Mafia series about two lifelong friends. Sean O’Malley Jr. and Zara Marino have a similar obsession with their fathers’ secrets, but discovering the truth requires them to surrender to each other and the unknown of their Underworld vows.
If secrets and lies, desires and denials, bonds and betrayal didn’t exist, Sean O’Malley would stay my friend forever.
That’s not the case.
There are two things we’ve always wanted but were off the table.
The truth about our fathers.
Each other.
So when a mysterious man shows up with a branded skull on his hand, speaking in riddles about an Underworld he claims we’re meant to reign in, it’s too tempting not to get sucked into the forbidden.
Even if it means sinking deeper into the darkness, testing all our boundaries, and clinging to the friends we used to be and the vows we’re now bound to for eternity.
Bride by Initiation is a standalone with interconnected characters, and book one of The Underworld series. This dark secret society, Mafia, friends to lovers, forbidden, first real love, marriage pact romance is not meant for the faint of heart. Expect violence, taboo, and graphic scenes.
If secrets and lies, desires and denials, bonds and betrayal didn’t exist, Sean O’Malley would stay my friend forever.
That’s not the case.
There are two things we’ve always wanted but were off the table.
The truth about our fathers.
Each other.
So when a mysterious man shows up with a branded skull on his hand, speaking in riddles about an Underworld he claims we’re meant to reign in, it’s too tempting not to get sucked into the forbidden.
Even if it means sinking deeper into the darkness, testing all our boundaries, and clinging to the friends we used to be and the vows we’re now bound to for eternity.
Bride by Initiation is a standalone with interconnected characters, and book one of The Underworld series. This dark secret society, Mafia, friends to lovers, forbidden, first real love, marriage pact romance is not meant for the faint of heart. Expect violence, taboo, and graphic scenes.
Audible Audio
Published February 26, 2025
3463 people are currently reading
5698 people want to read
About the author
Maggie Cole
66 books2,340 followersJoin Maggie Cole's newsletter for exclusive updates and material: https://www.authormaggiecole.com
Grab e-books, paperbacks, special editions, and audio at discounted prices!
Visit https://maggiecolebookstore.com/
Hang out with Maggie in her reader group: https://bit.ly/3cGMxIw
Instagram: @maggiecoleauthor
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3i5zmSk
TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@maggiecole.au...
Maggie Cole is committed to bringing her readers alphalicious book boyfriends and fiercely strong heroines.
She’s been called the literary master of steamy romance. Her books are full of raw emotion, suspense, and will always keep you wanting more. She is a masterful storyteller of contemporary romance and loves writing about broken people who rise above the ashes. Her books can often be found hanging out in the top 100, even years after publication.
Maggie lives in Florida with her son. She loves tennis, yoga, paddleboarding, boating, other water activities, and everything naughty.
Her current series were written in the order below:
All In (Stand alones with entwined characters)
It's Complicated (Stand alones with entwined characters)
Together We Stand (Brooks Family Saga - read in order)
Behind Closed Doors (Read in order)
Mafia Wars
Mafia Wars New York
Club Indulgence Duet
Mafia Wars Ireland
Wilted Kingdom Duet
The Underworld
The Cartwright Family (Holiday Romance)
Grab e-books, paperbacks, special editions, and audio at discounted prices!
Visit https://maggiecolebookstore.com/
Hang out with Maggie in her reader group: https://bit.ly/3cGMxIw
Instagram: @maggiecoleauthor
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3i5zmSk
TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@maggiecole.au...
Maggie Cole is committed to bringing her readers alphalicious book boyfriends and fiercely strong heroines.
She’s been called the literary master of steamy romance. Her books are full of raw emotion, suspense, and will always keep you wanting more. She is a masterful storyteller of contemporary romance and loves writing about broken people who rise above the ashes. Her books can often be found hanging out in the top 100, even years after publication.
Maggie lives in Florida with her son. She loves tennis, yoga, paddleboarding, boating, other water activities, and everything naughty.
Her current series were written in the order below:
All In (Stand alones with entwined characters)
It's Complicated (Stand alones with entwined characters)
Together We Stand (Brooks Family Saga - read in order)
Behind Closed Doors (Read in order)
Mafia Wars
Mafia Wars New York
Club Indulgence Duet
Mafia Wars Ireland
Wilted Kingdom Duet
The Underworld
The Cartwright Family (Holiday Romance)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 410 reviews
February 22, 2025
3.5 stars.
I devoured this book in one sitting! Zara and Sean, our main characters, were both deeply intrigued by their fathers’ past lives, their curiosity pulling them straight into the depths of a secret society and its hidden underworld. I loved how effortlessly they played their roles as husband and wife, their nonchalant ease making the romance arc feel both enjoyable and soothing. it ironically contrasted with the ruthless world they belong to. the overall plot kept me hooked, especially as they navigated family drama and the relentless obstacles of the underworld. my only reproach is that, at times, the characters didn’t quite feel their age; thirty-year-olds who sometimes read much younger.
many thanks to The Author Agency from providing an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
”Zara was always meant to be mine. I was always meant to be hers.”
🖤dark romance
🖤secret society
🖤marriage pact
🖤mafia romance
🖤second generation
🖤best friend’s brother.
I devoured this book in one sitting! Zara and Sean, our main characters, were both deeply intrigued by their fathers’ past lives, their curiosity pulling them straight into the depths of a secret society and its hidden underworld. I loved how effortlessly they played their roles as husband and wife, their nonchalant ease making the romance arc feel both enjoyable and soothing. it ironically contrasted with the ruthless world they belong to. the overall plot kept me hooked, especially as they navigated family drama and the relentless obstacles of the underworld. my only reproach is that, at times, the characters didn’t quite feel their age; thirty-year-olds who sometimes read much younger.
many thanks to The Author Agency from providing an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
March 5, 2025
Loved it!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐1\2
Trope: Secret society, Friends to lovers, Forced marriage
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I thought this was a really great introduction to this world. I always enjoy next-gen series , but I really liked the fact that both of the main characters were older, Which is not typically the case. There was tons of action and plenty of twists and turns despite it slowing down a couple of times in the story. I really enjoyed the couple and thought they had tons of chemistry. I can't wait for the next book!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐1\2
Trope: Secret society, Friends to lovers, Forced marriage
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I thought this was a really great introduction to this world. I always enjoy next-gen series , but I really liked the fact that both of the main characters were older, Which is not typically the case. There was tons of action and plenty of twists and turns despite it slowing down a couple of times in the story. I really enjoyed the couple and thought they had tons of chemistry. I can't wait for the next book!
March 18, 2025
3.5⭐️ an intriguing concept, but didn’t quite meet my expectations by way of the secret society plot line being a bit too unrealistic- but hey, it’s fiction!!
i also struggled with the fact that a major trope in this book was the marriage of convenience… which didn’t actually happen til like 55-60% in. that kinda threw me. then everyone was so pissed about it! no one treated these people like two consenting 30-something year old adults; and tbh they didn’t much act their age themselves in my opinion.
the constant secrecy and withholding of information also royally pissed me off, but i have a feeling the author did that on purpose; to give us a feel of what the characters were going thru while navigating the Underworld. but it really just got to the point of questioning if it was even worth it to continue with how rarely we were ever given nuggets of reliable info. i’m definitely still interested to see where this series goes, especially after the bomb that got dropped at the end, but i hope the things i disliked & mentioned above don’t become a common theme throughout the rest of the books. i don’t have the patience for that lol.
i also struggled with the fact that a major trope in this book was the marriage of convenience… which didn’t actually happen til like 55-60% in. that kinda threw me. then everyone was so pissed about it! no one treated these people like two consenting 30-something year old adults; and tbh they didn’t much act their age themselves in my opinion.
the constant secrecy and withholding of information also royally pissed me off, but i have a feeling the author did that on purpose; to give us a feel of what the characters were going thru while navigating the Underworld. but it really just got to the point of questioning if it was even worth it to continue with how rarely we were ever given nuggets of reliable info. i’m definitely still interested to see where this series goes, especially after the bomb that got dropped at the end, but i hope the things i disliked & mentioned above don’t become a common theme throughout the rest of the books. i don’t have the patience for that lol.
Read
July 21, 2025DNF 15%
Unfortunately.
Unfortunately.
January 12, 2026
Este libro es la segunda generación de Mafia Wars de la que hay diferentes series dependiendo de la familia mafiosa de que se trate. En este primer libro aparecen casi todas de golpe.
Pero no se centra para nada en la mafia sino en una compleja sociedad secreta de la que no se puede revelar nada. Tanto es así que terminas sin saber nada.
Es terrible. Seguía leyendo por la curiosidad de que finalmente se revelara algo. No ha habido suerte.
Todo el tiempo se repiten las dinámicas, los personajes de la primera generación tienen un papel que casi puede suprimirse... es una lástima porque me gustan estos temas, pero está muy mal ejecutado.
Pero no se centra para nada en la mafia sino en una compleja sociedad secreta de la que no se puede revelar nada. Tanto es así que terminas sin saber nada.
Es terrible. Seguía leyendo por la curiosidad de que finalmente se revelara algo. No ha habido suerte.
Todo el tiempo se repiten las dinámicas, los personajes de la primera generación tienen un papel que casi puede suprimirse... es una lástima porque me gustan estos temas, pero está muy mal ejecutado.
February 24, 2025
Bride By Initiation by Maggie Cole
4,5/5⭐
3,5/5🌶️
This book is the first in a new series, and I have to say, I really enjoyed it! Although I’ve only read one other book by this author, I found it really easy to jump into the story. The plot was super engaging and full of surprises that kept me hooked from beginning to end. It’s packed with action, secrets, and mystery, and even though it’s a hefty 500 pages, I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one day! The story revolves around Zara and Sean, who start off as friends. There’s a spark between them, but they never acted on it until life threw some curveballs their way.
Zara is a mafia princess whose parents try to keep her safe from the dangerous world around them. But when a stranger approaches her with hints about her father’s secrets, she feels compelled to uncover the truth. Meanwhile, Sean is on his own quest to find out about his father's death. When he hears about a secret society that could reveal everything, he’s determined to pass all the tests to become a member.
From the very start, Zara and Sean's chemistry is palpable! I loved how, when circumstances pushed them together, they embraced their feelings instead of shying away. Sean’s protectiveness over Zara is truly heartwarming, but what I admired most is Zara’s fierce, and brave spirit. She’s such a strong character, and truly a perfect match for Sean. The challenges they face to become members of The Underworld are definitely not for the faint-hearted!
This book kept me on the edge of my seat with every twist and turn. My heart was racing as I read, and I was absolutely in awe as the truth was gradually unveiled. I’m really intrigued by the next couple in the series and can’t wait to see where the story goes from here.
4,5/5⭐
3,5/5🌶️
This book is the first in a new series, and I have to say, I really enjoyed it! Although I’ve only read one other book by this author, I found it really easy to jump into the story. The plot was super engaging and full of surprises that kept me hooked from beginning to end. It’s packed with action, secrets, and mystery, and even though it’s a hefty 500 pages, I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one day! The story revolves around Zara and Sean, who start off as friends. There’s a spark between them, but they never acted on it until life threw some curveballs their way.
Zara is a mafia princess whose parents try to keep her safe from the dangerous world around them. But when a stranger approaches her with hints about her father’s secrets, she feels compelled to uncover the truth. Meanwhile, Sean is on his own quest to find out about his father's death. When he hears about a secret society that could reveal everything, he’s determined to pass all the tests to become a member.
From the very start, Zara and Sean's chemistry is palpable! I loved how, when circumstances pushed them together, they embraced their feelings instead of shying away. Sean’s protectiveness over Zara is truly heartwarming, but what I admired most is Zara’s fierce, and brave spirit. She’s such a strong character, and truly a perfect match for Sean. The challenges they face to become members of The Underworld are definitely not for the faint-hearted!
This book kept me on the edge of my seat with every twist and turn. My heart was racing as I read, and I was absolutely in awe as the truth was gradually unveiled. I’m really intrigued by the next couple in the series and can’t wait to see where the story goes from here.
October 30, 2025
i literally CRIED because it was so bad- especially the plot. everything was soooooo unrealistic and they both were sooo naive and annoying.
i’m literally speechless rn ( obv not in a good way)
i’m literally speechless rn ( obv not in a good way)
March 12, 2025
DNF @4%
When you know the way a book is written and words characters say and it's not to your liking. DNF.
When you know the way a book is written and words characters say and it's not to your liking. DNF.
March 4, 2025
Who's Bored? Not Me!
Sean O'Malley Jr and Zara Luciana Marino undoubtedly have chemistry. I mean, she knows his size before she ever gets to witness it due to its appearance against her over the years. There's just one word for that - HOT! (Fine, there are dozens to choose from, but this one is more than enough.)
He knows I can't ever tell him to stop when he touches me. He's a magnet, and there's no way to pull away from him. The moment we crossed the line, it became undoable. He knows it, and I know it.
-- Zara Luciana Marino
I couldn't put this down. Seriously, I wanted to scream every time I was interrupted. 🤪 It's naughty, twisted, funny, deadly, and full of secrets and lies. In short, it's everything I expect from a Maggie Cole Mafia book.
This is dark, but for me, most of the warnings are general content and not triggering. That's me, of course, and may differ for you. The graphic details of Sean Sr's death, while touched upon, aren't here (thankfully; that's honestly the hardest scene for me to read that Maggie's written). Still, there is torture and death to contend with, plus a scene that skirts the line of dub con.
There is a TON of name dropping throughout the book. If you haven't read the Mafia Wars series, you don't have to, but you may need to study the family tree at the beginning of the book a bit. For those that are familiar, be prepared to *squee* with joy like I did!
H = 36; h = 30
March 14, 2025
This was such a fantastic read! I don’t know where I’ve been to not have read anything by this author yet!!! But this was my first book by Maggie Cole and I’m hooked line and sinker I’m freaking drowning haha I was blown away by how great this story was from the first page it sucked me in I loved the characters the chemistry between the main characters was absolutely incredible the darkness the suspense and mystery was so intriguing and intense and I loved a lot of the side characters I just found out she has books out of Sean’s family’s especially his mom’s story I will be inhaling everything I can get my hands on. This was a great introduction to Maggie Cole’s mafia /criminal underworld and it’s safe to say I’m obsessed and she now has a fan for life! Amazing brilliant 5 star read!
10/5 ⭐️
5/5 🌶️
POV - Dual
Hero - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heroine - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chemistry - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam level 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
10/5 ⭐️
5/5 🌶️
POV - Dual
Hero - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heroine - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chemistry - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam level 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
September 15, 2025
3⭐ / 4.5🌶️
[🎧] audio
audiobook 🎧 — duet, Alex Kydd & Amelie Griffin
— vibezz
✉️ friends to lovers
🥊 secret society
✉️ marriage pact
🥊 best friend's brother
✉️ he calls her my pulse~
mini blurb — ✍🏻
Zara and Sean were childhood friends, both hunted by the secrets surrounding their fathers.
When one day they are given the opportunity to learn about the hidden Underworld around them, it may cost so much more than they had initially planned.
//
I wanna say I struggled a little bit since this was a second gen series, and from what I understood the characters have already a complicated and intricate history, so there's that.
The plot was engaging and I was hooked listening to the audiobook eager to know what the hell was happening, the whole secrecy thing was a bit overwhelming... I still don't know what's the purpose of this secret society, what happened to both Zara and Sean's parents and needless to say I am quite shocked to the amount of death surrounding their initiation 💀💀💀 was really all that necessary??
[🎧] audio
audiobook 🎧 — duet, Alex Kydd & Amelie Griffin
— vibezz
✉️ friends to lovers
🥊 secret society
✉️ marriage pact
🥊 best friend's brother
✉️ he calls her my pulse~
mini blurb — ✍🏻
Zara and Sean were childhood friends, both hunted by the secrets surrounding their fathers.
When one day they are given the opportunity to learn about the hidden Underworld around them, it may cost so much more than they had initially planned.
//
I wanna say I struggled a little bit since this was a second gen series, and from what I understood the characters have already a complicated and intricate history, so there's that.
The plot was engaging and I was hooked listening to the audiobook eager to know what the hell was happening, the whole secrecy thing was a bit overwhelming... I still don't know what's the purpose of this secret society, what happened to both Zara and Sean's parents and needless to say I am quite shocked to the amount of death surrounding their initiation 💀💀💀 was really all that necessary??
February 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
✅TW’s
This book was a really fun read. I have never read a Maggie Cole book before so I wasn’t sure what I was getting into. I loved the story. I loved all the twists and turns, I never knew what was going to happen next.I feel like I need to go back and read some Maggie Cole books to see some of these characters stories.
Zara and Sean were amazing characters. I loved their chemistry so much. The spicy scenes between them were amazing.
Tropes-
-dark romance
-secret society
-mafia romance
-friends to lovers
-forbidden
-first real love
-marriage pact
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
✅TW’s
This book was a really fun read. I have never read a Maggie Cole book before so I wasn’t sure what I was getting into. I loved the story. I loved all the twists and turns, I never knew what was going to happen next.I feel like I need to go back and read some Maggie Cole books to see some of these characters stories.
Zara and Sean were amazing characters. I loved their chemistry so much. The spicy scenes between them were amazing.
Tropes-
-dark romance
-secret society
-mafia romance
-friends to lovers
-forbidden
-first real love
-marriage pact
February 26, 2025
I'm sorry, but can we just take a moment to appreciate this absolutely stunning front cover!
I know we say we shouldn't - but I'm always grabbing books because they look so beautiful!
This is the first book in what looks like it's going to be an amazing new series - The Underworld series - ...and I'm totally hooked already!
I love a dark romance and this had absolutely everything I could have wished for.
Packed with secrets and forbidden love I was sucked in from the very first page.
I loved Zara and Sean and it was pretty clear that their chemistry was going to prove to be too much to resist!
As they both look into the secrets from the past, pushed together, their friendship grows to be something more.
This was a pretty spicy read in places, but I love how this didn't overshadow the storyline one bit, just enhanced it all.
The whole underworld seemed pretty intimidating but both characters fought to pass each test sent their way.
This was actually a fairly chunky read at just over 500 pages - but I honestly only discovered this after reading!
It never felt slow or lost it's way and had me gripped from start to finish as I raced through this in record time!
It's my first read by this author but I know that it won't be the last and I can't wait to see what comes next in book 2 of this series.
I know we say we shouldn't - but I'm always grabbing books because they look so beautiful!
This is the first book in what looks like it's going to be an amazing new series - The Underworld series - ...and I'm totally hooked already!
I love a dark romance and this had absolutely everything I could have wished for.
Packed with secrets and forbidden love I was sucked in from the very first page.
I loved Zara and Sean and it was pretty clear that their chemistry was going to prove to be too much to resist!
As they both look into the secrets from the past, pushed together, their friendship grows to be something more.
This was a pretty spicy read in places, but I love how this didn't overshadow the storyline one bit, just enhanced it all.
The whole underworld seemed pretty intimidating but both characters fought to pass each test sent their way.
This was actually a fairly chunky read at just over 500 pages - but I honestly only discovered this after reading!
It never felt slow or lost it's way and had me gripped from start to finish as I raced through this in record time!
It's my first read by this author but I know that it won't be the last and I can't wait to see what comes next in book 2 of this series.
March 27, 2025
I really enjoyed the audiobook for this story. Both narrators did a phenomenal job bringing this story to life. Definitely check your trigger warnings since there are some dark elements within this book. I could not put this down, and it was easy to follow. The spice in this book was spicy! The only part I did not enjoy was when Zara was accusing Sean of cheating, both characters were annoying to me in this scenario. That was just a small part of the story, and I cannot wait for the next story with Fiona and Kirill.
This is an interconnected standalone.
Tropes:
friends to lovers
marriage pact
secret society
mafia
"My wife" moments
protective mmc
This is an interconnected standalone.
Tropes:
friends to lovers
marriage pact
secret society
mafia
"My wife" moments
protective mmc
March 8, 2025
Why you will love this book:
🖤Dark Romance
🔥Secret Society
🖤Mafia Romance
🔥Friends to Lovers
🖤Forbidden
🔥First Real Love
🖤Marriage Pact
Thank you to Author Maggie Cole and The Author Agency
This was my first read by this author and I enjoyed it! All the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat. Sean and Zara had amazing Chemistry and the spicy scenes between them was spicin ❤️🔥
They try to get answers in finding out the truth of their fathers and are unable to get answers from their families, taking them into the underworld. And everything they go through will they find the answers they need? What will they go through. I loved the plot. I loved their relationship and chemistry it was absolutely amazing! Definitely give this a read!!
🖤Dark Romance
🔥Secret Society
🖤Mafia Romance
🔥Friends to Lovers
🖤Forbidden
🔥First Real Love
🖤Marriage Pact
Thank you to Author Maggie Cole and The Author Agency
This was my first read by this author and I enjoyed it! All the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat. Sean and Zara had amazing Chemistry and the spicy scenes between them was spicin ❤️🔥
They try to get answers in finding out the truth of their fathers and are unable to get answers from their families, taking them into the underworld. And everything they go through will they find the answers they need? What will they go through. I loved the plot. I loved their relationship and chemistry it was absolutely amazing! Definitely give this a read!!
January 2, 2026
5 stars 3.5 peppers
- childhood friends to lovers
- secret society
- mafia
- forbidden
- dark
- marriage pact
- mystery
You guys, this book hooked me within the first 5%. I could not stop reading. It is action packed and kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. There are so many secrets.
Zara has questions about her father that no one will answer. So when a mysterious man finds her and promises her those answers, she follows. Sean similarly has questions about his late father. Their journeys intertwine and lead them to a secret society.
Their chemistry is insane. Sean is possessive and strong. When he calls her his pulse- I die. Zara is strong and fierce. She knows what she wants and is going to go for it no matter what.
Like I said, this book captivated me from the start, I could not stop reading. There are so many secrets, so much going on that you can't stop reading.
Absolutely can't wait for the rest of this series.
- childhood friends to lovers
- secret society
- mafia
- forbidden
- dark
- marriage pact
- mystery
You guys, this book hooked me within the first 5%. I could not stop reading. It is action packed and kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. There are so many secrets.
Zara has questions about her father that no one will answer. So when a mysterious man finds her and promises her those answers, she follows. Sean similarly has questions about his late father. Their journeys intertwine and lead them to a secret society.
Their chemistry is insane. Sean is possessive and strong. When he calls her his pulse- I die. Zara is strong and fierce. She knows what she wants and is going to go for it no matter what.
Like I said, this book captivated me from the start, I could not stop reading. There are so many secrets, so much going on that you can't stop reading.
Absolutely can't wait for the rest of this series.
March 28, 2025
Did everyone read the same repetitive trash I did? This book literally repeats conversation after conversation over and over in circles with no end. It’s so much repetitive fluff thrown into some weak plot building with no character buildup. DNF at 60%
March 10, 2025
I need an intervention to cancel my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
February 16, 2026
Bride by Initiation — Maggie Cole
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Tropes: Dark romance, secret society, forced proximity, power imbalance, marriage pact
Main Characters: Zara × Sean
This story thrives on structure and ritual. From the very first initiation scene, the tone is clear: this isn’t just romance — it’s about hierarchy, loyalty, and control. The Underworld ceremony is one of the strongest moments in the book. The symbolism, the pressure, the public nature of the vow — it establishes stakes immediately and gives the romance a political weight beyond attraction.
The dynamic between Zara and Sean is built on tension layered with history. One of the most impactful scenes comes when Zara confronts Sean about the secrecy surrounding the pact. That confrontation shifts their relationship from surface-level chemistry to something more volatile — pride versus vulnerability. It’s one of the rare moments where emotional stakes overpower the physical ones.
Another standout moment is the midpoint twist involving the internal betrayal within the society. The pacing accelerates sharply here, and while it adds suspense, it slightly sacrifices character introspection. We move from psychological tension to action-driven momentum. It works for adrenaline — but emotionally, it could have lingered longer.
Sean’s possessiveness is central to the narrative. In scenes where he asserts dominance publicly versus when he softens privately, the contrast adds dimension to his character. However, deeper exploration of his internal conflict would have elevated the arc further.
What holds the novel together is consistency in atmosphere. The secret society setting isn’t decorative — it shapes every interaction, every choice, every consequence. That thematic cohesion makes the world immersive.
Strengths:
Strong opening initiation sequence
High-stakes romantic tension
Cohesive secret society world-building
Where it could go further:
More emotional unpacking after major twists
Deeper psychological layering for both protagonists
Overall: A dark, high-intensity romance that prioritizes tension and structure over emotional subtlety. It’s gripping, dramatic, and unapologetically bold — even if a few moments deserved more breathing space.
— Asmaa Laili
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Tropes: Dark romance, secret society, forced proximity, power imbalance, marriage pact
Main Characters: Zara × Sean
This story thrives on structure and ritual. From the very first initiation scene, the tone is clear: this isn’t just romance — it’s about hierarchy, loyalty, and control. The Underworld ceremony is one of the strongest moments in the book. The symbolism, the pressure, the public nature of the vow — it establishes stakes immediately and gives the romance a political weight beyond attraction.
The dynamic between Zara and Sean is built on tension layered with history. One of the most impactful scenes comes when Zara confronts Sean about the secrecy surrounding the pact. That confrontation shifts their relationship from surface-level chemistry to something more volatile — pride versus vulnerability. It’s one of the rare moments where emotional stakes overpower the physical ones.
Another standout moment is the midpoint twist involving the internal betrayal within the society. The pacing accelerates sharply here, and while it adds suspense, it slightly sacrifices character introspection. We move from psychological tension to action-driven momentum. It works for adrenaline — but emotionally, it could have lingered longer.
Sean’s possessiveness is central to the narrative. In scenes where he asserts dominance publicly versus when he softens privately, the contrast adds dimension to his character. However, deeper exploration of his internal conflict would have elevated the arc further.
What holds the novel together is consistency in atmosphere. The secret society setting isn’t decorative — it shapes every interaction, every choice, every consequence. That thematic cohesion makes the world immersive.
Strengths:
Strong opening initiation sequence
High-stakes romantic tension
Cohesive secret society world-building
Where it could go further:
More emotional unpacking after major twists
Deeper psychological layering for both protagonists
Overall: A dark, high-intensity romance that prioritizes tension and structure over emotional subtlety. It’s gripping, dramatic, and unapologetically bold — even if a few moments deserved more breathing space.
— Asmaa Laili
March 2, 2025
I loved this story! It’s dark and twisted and has so many secrets and lies. Sean and Zara have been searching to uncover secrets about their families and are shocked at what they find: The Underworld. A secret society that…well that’s all I can tell you!!
This story is a wild ride and I had no idea where it was going. Sean and Zara have always had a connection and their chemistry is 🔥 They have some tough decisions to make and they find themselves playing a very dangerous game.
The spicy scenes are so good and we get some really great “my wife” moments! I am really excited to see where this series goes!
Thank you so much to @maggiecoleauthor
& @theauthor.agency for this surprise #bookmail
💀🌺💀🌺💀🌺💀🌺💀🌺💀🌺💀🌺💀
There are two things we’ve always wanted but were off the table.
First: The truth about our fathers.
Second: Each other….
✨What To Expect:
🖤Dark Romance
🎭Secret Society
🥀Mafia Romance
💋Friends to Lovers
🚫Forbidden
🔥”My Wife”
❤️🔥First Real Love
⁉️Family Secrets
💍Marriage Pact
🌪️Twists and Turns
This story is a wild ride and I had no idea where it was going. Sean and Zara have always had a connection and their chemistry is 🔥 They have some tough decisions to make and they find themselves playing a very dangerous game.
The spicy scenes are so good and we get some really great “my wife” moments! I am really excited to see where this series goes!
Thank you so much to @maggiecoleauthor
& @theauthor.agency for this surprise #bookmail
💀🌺💀🌺💀🌺💀🌺💀🌺💀🌺💀🌺💀
There are two things we’ve always wanted but were off the table.
First: The truth about our fathers.
Second: Each other….
✨What To Expect:
🖤Dark Romance
🎭Secret Society
🥀Mafia Romance
💋Friends to Lovers
🚫Forbidden
🔥”My Wife”
❤️🔥First Real Love
⁉️Family Secrets
💍Marriage Pact
🌪️Twists and Turns
February 26, 2025
****ARC BOOK REVIEW****
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. Overall
🌶️🌶️🌶️ spice level
⭐️⭐️⭐️ plot
This is the first installment of a new series by veteran mafia author Maggie Cole. This book involves the children of her previous mafia book characters.
This is Zara Marino & Sean O’ Malley Jr.’s story. Two lifelong friends that are forbidden to each other because Zara is the best friend to Sean’s sister. They share a common thread of trying to find out the secrets surrounding both their father’s (hidden past) lives. In order to do that they must enter the underworld.
I was drawn in from the first page to the chemistry of Sean & Zara. The mystery surrounding the underworld, the strong dynamics of the mafia & their sizzling hot chemistry, all kept me turning the pages.
This FMC is no typical mafia princess. She’s strong and confident to stand by Sean’s side as they forge their own path together.
This was an interesting read. I love mafia stories, but it’s my first secret society book. My only issues were that both characters are in their 30’s, but,at times,act much younger. Also, the plot at times seems to take unusual turns that seem unnecessarily violent/graphic for the situation. However,as stated , this is my first secret society book, so maybe that’s the norm? I have always a really enjoyed books by Maggie Cole. She has a great backlog of previous mafia books that actually interconnect with this one! Definitely worth checking out!
This is a dark romance with dark themes. Please check your trigger warnings before reading.
If you like :
-mafia romance
-secret society
-forbidden romance
-strong MMC/FMC
-always been you
- voyeurism
-interconnected characters
-marriage pact
This is the book for you!!!
Sincere Thanks to. Author Maggie Cole for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. Overall
🌶️🌶️🌶️ spice level
⭐️⭐️⭐️ plot
This is the first installment of a new series by veteran mafia author Maggie Cole. This book involves the children of her previous mafia book characters.
This is Zara Marino & Sean O’ Malley Jr.’s story. Two lifelong friends that are forbidden to each other because Zara is the best friend to Sean’s sister. They share a common thread of trying to find out the secrets surrounding both their father’s (hidden past) lives. In order to do that they must enter the underworld.
I was drawn in from the first page to the chemistry of Sean & Zara. The mystery surrounding the underworld, the strong dynamics of the mafia & their sizzling hot chemistry, all kept me turning the pages.
This FMC is no typical mafia princess. She’s strong and confident to stand by Sean’s side as they forge their own path together.
This was an interesting read. I love mafia stories, but it’s my first secret society book. My only issues were that both characters are in their 30’s, but,at times,act much younger. Also, the plot at times seems to take unusual turns that seem unnecessarily violent/graphic for the situation. However,as stated , this is my first secret society book, so maybe that’s the norm? I have always a really enjoyed books by Maggie Cole. She has a great backlog of previous mafia books that actually interconnect with this one! Definitely worth checking out!
This is a dark romance with dark themes. Please check your trigger warnings before reading.
If you like :
-mafia romance
-secret society
-forbidden romance
-strong MMC/FMC
-always been you
- voyeurism
-interconnected characters
-marriage pact
This is the book for you!!!
Sincere Thanks to. Author Maggie Cole for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
February 15, 2025
***⭐️Arc Review⭐️***
••Bride by Initiation by Maggie Cole ••
Release Date: February 26th
Book Rating: 3.5/5
Spice: 4/5 🥵
Bride by Initiation is a standalone with interconnected characters, ( Mafia Wars) and is book one of The Underworld series.
This dark romance has a secret society filled with secrets, Mafia family ties , childhood friends to lovers, and a marriage pact that quite literally saved them! It is definitely not meant for the faint of heart. In my opinion the Violence, taboo relations, and internal family struggles was perfect but the icing on the cake was the steamy spice & the bonus scene, chef kiss!
I loved how in the span of a few weeks Sean & Zara go from friends fighting their atraction to one another, to lovers by choice to save themselves from the Underworld. Then over the course of months with multiple trials placed on them by The Underworld, we get to see how it was always meant to be them together. Their love is challenged and family ties are strained, but in the end they end up right where they were always destined to be…earning a spot at the table.
Throughly recommend Bride by Initiation! This was my first read by Maggie Cole and now I can’t wait to devour more of this mafia world and go back to the beginning to learn more about Sean & Zara’s families.
••Bride by Initiation by Maggie Cole ••
Release Date: February 26th
Book Rating: 3.5/5
Spice: 4/5 🥵
Bride by Initiation is a standalone with interconnected characters, ( Mafia Wars) and is book one of The Underworld series.
This dark romance has a secret society filled with secrets, Mafia family ties , childhood friends to lovers, and a marriage pact that quite literally saved them! It is definitely not meant for the faint of heart. In my opinion the Violence, taboo relations, and internal family struggles was perfect but the icing on the cake was the steamy spice & the bonus scene, chef kiss!
I loved how in the span of a few weeks Sean & Zara go from friends fighting their atraction to one another, to lovers by choice to save themselves from the Underworld. Then over the course of months with multiple trials placed on them by The Underworld, we get to see how it was always meant to be them together. Their love is challenged and family ties are strained, but in the end they end up right where they were always destined to be…earning a spot at the table.
Throughly recommend Bride by Initiation! This was my first read by Maggie Cole and now I can’t wait to devour more of this mafia world and go back to the beginning to learn more about Sean & Zara’s families.
April 3, 2025
What a fun and wild ride. The forbidden element of best friend’s older brother always slaps. Couple that with this intense mystery surrounding a secret mafia society and how the two main characters fit was flawlessly executed. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
February 19, 2025
Oh my gosh I freaking loved this so much! This is next generation of the mafia world with Sean O’Malley Jr. and Zara Marino. The Irish man and the French/Italian woman. These two have been friends since they were kids. She’s actually best friends with his sister, Fiona. They have always had been attracted to each other but never crossed that line out of respect for Fiona and their friendship. One day a mysterious man shows up and tells Zara there is a way to know everything she has always wondered about her father. But secrets are never free and talks of an Underworld commence.
This was a very good secret society romance book. The things they had to do, and this plot, was something I have never read before and it was so intriguing. I loved that this was different than anything I’ve read. Maggie continues to wow me with her writing. And Sean and Zara’s chemistry was off the charts. I cannot wait for Fiona’s book next!!
This was a very good secret society romance book. The things they had to do, and this plot, was something I have never read before and it was so intriguing. I loved that this was different than anything I’ve read. Maggie continues to wow me with her writing. And Sean and Zara’s chemistry was off the charts. I cannot wait for Fiona’s book next!!
February 13, 2025
Absolutely loved this story! The Underworld is like nothing I have ever encounted before but I am already hooked! Sean and Zara totally stole my heart in this one. As a huge fan of Maggie's original Mafia Wars series I was so excited to hear she was going to be diving into the next generation and boy did she knock it out of the park! It was dark, thrilling, and perfectly naughty! I cannot say enough amazing things about this story....I'm already counting down until the next one!
February 14, 2025
OMG this book has everything you expect from Maggie Cole and more. The new generation of Mafia wars, The Underworld, will blow your mind. Sean and Zara’s story is spellbinding and has you craving more. Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2025
Lots of new-to-me authors recently and I am loving it!!
Why has no one told me about this author before now?!?! Maggie Cole, you have just earned yourself a new fangirl!!
This series is apparently a spin-off from another series she wrote, but I can tell you I had no idea and you need zero prior knowledge to absolutely enjoy this book.
Bride by Initiation is an intriguing and gripping dark mafia/secret society romance. Sean and Zara are both on a quest to find out about each of their father's secrets and it takes them down a path neither anticipated.
Maggie has written a brilliant story with an engaging plot, great characters with a storyline that flows at the perfect pace. I love the story plays out in perfect timing and she blends the dark with the suspense and romance in such a spectacular way that you can't out the book down.
I devoured this book in one sitting and has left me wanting more about this whole secret society and what is to come in future books. Zara and Sean get their ending but you know there is more to come with others.
Definitely go buy this one!
Why has no one told me about this author before now?!?! Maggie Cole, you have just earned yourself a new fangirl!!
This series is apparently a spin-off from another series she wrote, but I can tell you I had no idea and you need zero prior knowledge to absolutely enjoy this book.
Bride by Initiation is an intriguing and gripping dark mafia/secret society romance. Sean and Zara are both on a quest to find out about each of their father's secrets and it takes them down a path neither anticipated.
Maggie has written a brilliant story with an engaging plot, great characters with a storyline that flows at the perfect pace. I love the story plays out in perfect timing and she blends the dark with the suspense and romance in such a spectacular way that you can't out the book down.
I devoured this book in one sitting and has left me wanting more about this whole secret society and what is to come in future books. Zara and Sean get their ending but you know there is more to come with others.
Definitely go buy this one!
February 28, 2025
Appalling plotlines bring disappointment.
Normally, I like Maggie Cole's novels. However, BRIDE BY INITIATION was tragic disappointment and really didn't earn the one star needed to leave a review. The plot depicted satanic-like scenes and teachings that curdled my stomach. There was far too little romance surrounding the evil. Try a different series by this author.
Normally, I like Maggie Cole's novels. However, BRIDE BY INITIATION was tragic disappointment and really didn't earn the one star needed to leave a review. The plot depicted satanic-like scenes and teachings that curdled my stomach. There was far too little romance surrounding the evil. Try a different series by this author.
March 28, 2025
3.29
I really loved the concept of this story but there was so much that I couldn’t stand. The constant whining of the main characters. The weird fetishes. The cringy nicknames.
”It’s only you and me, my sexy little pulse.”🥴
The repeated sentences in this book could make you snore. They kept asking the same questions over and over, just to get the same answers. 😴
But I did love the whole underworld/mafia parts of the book. This book is like the mama of hunger games. It gave me that vibe. LET THE GAMES BEGIN
Sean was very protective of Zara, who was best friends with his sister. I loved that side of their relationship.
I really loved the concept of this story but there was so much that I couldn’t stand. The constant whining of the main characters. The weird fetishes. The cringy nicknames.
”It’s only you and me, my sexy little pulse.”🥴
The repeated sentences in this book could make you snore. They kept asking the same questions over and over, just to get the same answers. 😴
But I did love the whole underworld/mafia parts of the book. This book is like the mama of hunger games. It gave me that vibe. LET THE GAMES BEGIN
Sean was very protective of Zara, who was best friends with his sister. I loved that side of their relationship.
February 3, 2026
Absolutely amazing read!!!
This book is a second-generation from the original series Mafia Wars. I loved seeing the updates from my favorite characters but also the answers that were missing from those first books.
Sean O’Malley Jr. has grown up as his dad would have wanted, but it is no longer his grandfather world. In some ways, it's darker and more dangerous, though no one on the outside would know until you go into the Underworld.
This book is a second-generation from the original series Mafia Wars. I loved seeing the updates from my favorite characters but also the answers that were missing from those first books.
Sean O’Malley Jr. has grown up as his dad would have wanted, but it is no longer his grandfather world. In some ways, it's darker and more dangerous, though no one on the outside would know until you go into the Underworld.
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