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Heirs of the Organized #2
Scandalized
An unwilling pawn in a game of survival, she must choose between the life she wants and the man she can’t resist.
Taryn
I’m a New York mob princess, and every step of my life has been planned for me.
Where to go to school. Who to trust. Even who to marry.
St. Agnes, a college for America’s richest and most corrupt, is supposed to be giving me the world-class education I need to walk away. But when my father promises me to the heir of Chicago’s Irish mob, our marriage a key to a crucial alliance, my dream of a new life slips further out of reach.
When my defiance spirals into a scandal, suddenly I’m a problem the mob wants to erase.
I will be known as someone other than someone’s daughter. Or someone’s wife.
Even if I have to sacrifice everything to do it.
Liam
Everyone thinks I’m a playboy.
It’s true that I navigate life with an easy smile and a quick laugh. But I always get what I want.
And I want Taryn.
The first time she opened her sassy mouth, I was hooked. Now that her world is falling apart, there’s nothing I won’t do to save her.
Even if she doesn’t want saving from a man like me.
Heirs of the Organized
Book 1: Weaponized
Book 2: Scandalized
Taryn
I’m a New York mob princess, and every step of my life has been planned for me.
Where to go to school. Who to trust. Even who to marry.
St. Agnes, a college for America’s richest and most corrupt, is supposed to be giving me the world-class education I need to walk away. But when my father promises me to the heir of Chicago’s Irish mob, our marriage a key to a crucial alliance, my dream of a new life slips further out of reach.
When my defiance spirals into a scandal, suddenly I’m a problem the mob wants to erase.
I will be known as someone other than someone’s daughter. Or someone’s wife.
Even if I have to sacrifice everything to do it.
Liam
Everyone thinks I’m a playboy.
It’s true that I navigate life with an easy smile and a quick laugh. But I always get what I want.
And I want Taryn.
The first time she opened her sassy mouth, I was hooked. Now that her world is falling apart, there’s nothing I won’t do to save her.
Even if she doesn’t want saving from a man like me.
Heirs of the Organized
Book 1: Weaponized
Book 2: Scandalized
317 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 20, 2026
60 people are currently reading
1066 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Kilburn
5 books29 followersDespite a reading addiction that takes up most of her free time, Kelly Kilburn loves to write her own romance novels. She’s an absolute sucker for a morally grey hero with a twisted path toward happily-ever-after.
Kelly lives in Pittsburgh, Pa., with her partner in crime (otherwise known as her husband) and occasionally their daughter (when she deems them worthy of a visit from college). When she’s not immersed in a romance, Kelly often can be found drinking copious amounts of coffee while watching the deer play in the woods outside her window.
Kelly lives in Pittsburgh, Pa., with her partner in crime (otherwise known as her husband) and occasionally their daughter (when she deems them worthy of a visit from college). When she’s not immersed in a romance, Kelly often can be found drinking copious amounts of coffee while watching the deer play in the woods outside her window.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
January 2, 2026
There’s just something about finding a dark mafia romance book that’s actually good that tickles all my senses in just the right way. I received an arc of this and DEVOURED IT! This is the second book in an interconnected standalone series but can be read entirely on its own. Although I’m sprinting to go read book 1 now!
- Arranged marriage
- reverse grumpy sunshine
- Mafia princess FMC who actually has a backbone?! What a concept
- Golden retriever MMC who’s the heir to the Italian mafia and is secretly absolutely INSANE
- reformed playboy, like he literally lays eyes on her and is like yeah, nobody else matters now I’m doing everything to have her.
- He falls first and he falls so hard.
- A man so pathetically down bad I think he would lick the floor if she asked no question.
- University setting where only the richest kids from the most corrupt families attend.
THE MY WIFE MOMENTS?!!! No bye. This was so fun I giggled and kicked my feet the whole time. Also loved the autism rep from Liam’s brother I need him to get a book!!
- Arranged marriage
- reverse grumpy sunshine
- Mafia princess FMC who actually has a backbone?! What a concept
- Golden retriever MMC who’s the heir to the Italian mafia and is secretly absolutely INSANE
- reformed playboy, like he literally lays eyes on her and is like yeah, nobody else matters now I’m doing everything to have her.
- He falls first and he falls so hard.
- A man so pathetically down bad I think he would lick the floor if she asked no question.
- University setting where only the richest kids from the most corrupt families attend.
THE MY WIFE MOMENTS?!!! No bye. This was so fun I giggled and kicked my feet the whole time. Also loved the autism rep from Liam’s brother I need him to get a book!!
October 14, 2025
4 ˖⁺‧✮
this was actually so good. from the interesting plot line to incredible chemistry 🤭
as the book started i wasn’t really sure about the relationship between the main characters. the guy was into the girl from the start and had this small type of obsession. she was very unresponsive and uninterested in him which made his feelings even stronger. so when they had to marry each other for their family safety👀of course it added the tension. i loved seeing the fmc being very open and straightforward about her feelings. she wasn’t mean or unreasonable to mmc which was so nice to see. for that reasons, their conversations were always good and adult like.
i don’t have anything bad to say about the characters because i truly enjoyed how sweet and genuine they were with each other. but!!! that small moment with the bank account and stalking money was a little bit manipulative. i understand wanting fmc to be safe but telling her wouldn’t really change the situation.
the plot was pretty great as well. i loved seeing the situation unveiling and rapidly evolving at the end. i wished for more tension when fmc was alsmosy captured, but overall a great story.
this book is considered a mafia romance but i wouldn’t really say it was dark or had much of mafia. pretty easy and fun for a short read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin - Romance | Carina Press for the arc.
this was actually so good. from the interesting plot line to incredible chemistry 🤭
as the book started i wasn’t really sure about the relationship between the main characters. the guy was into the girl from the start and had this small type of obsession. she was very unresponsive and uninterested in him which made his feelings even stronger. so when they had to marry each other for their family safety👀of course it added the tension. i loved seeing the fmc being very open and straightforward about her feelings. she wasn’t mean or unreasonable to mmc which was so nice to see. for that reasons, their conversations were always good and adult like.
i don’t have anything bad to say about the characters because i truly enjoyed how sweet and genuine they were with each other. but!!! that small moment with the bank account and stalking money was a little bit manipulative. i understand wanting fmc to be safe but telling her wouldn’t really change the situation.
the plot was pretty great as well. i loved seeing the situation unveiling and rapidly evolving at the end. i wished for more tension when fmc was alsmosy captured, but overall a great story.
this book is considered a mafia romance but i wouldn’t really say it was dark or had much of mafia. pretty easy and fun for a short read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin - Romance | Carina Press for the arc.
December 26, 2025
First and foremost I’d like to thank NetGalley & Harlequin audio for allowing me to listen to these 2 books. I am forever thankful and my feelings are a honest reflection of my feelings towards this book.
These are my first introduction to Kelly Kilburn as an author.
I’m a sucker for a good mafia romance and this book promised to give me that.
We meet two different women as they navigate the mafia world with arranged marriages and the danger that come with being in that world.
I would like to say that I loved these books but I was a little frustrated with these characters and plot points.
The FMCs were interesting from the get go but it wasn’t long before they become what I like “dude whipped” and they pretty much become less interesting.
The main love interests when from doushe canoes to knights in shining armor without any build up.
And bam there’s the spice. Or talk of spice and I’m like 🤦🏼♂️
Overall a book series that doesn’t set itself apart from the crowded mafia romance books.
The narrator’s were pretty solid but even they couldn’t save these books from settling at a 2.5 star overall rating
These are my first introduction to Kelly Kilburn as an author.
I’m a sucker for a good mafia romance and this book promised to give me that.
We meet two different women as they navigate the mafia world with arranged marriages and the danger that come with being in that world.
I would like to say that I loved these books but I was a little frustrated with these characters and plot points.
The FMCs were interesting from the get go but it wasn’t long before they become what I like “dude whipped” and they pretty much become less interesting.
The main love interests when from doushe canoes to knights in shining armor without any build up.
And bam there’s the spice. Or talk of spice and I’m like 🤦🏼♂️
Overall a book series that doesn’t set itself apart from the crowded mafia romance books.
The narrator’s were pretty solid but even they couldn’t save these books from settling at a 2.5 star overall rating
January 25, 2026
Scandalized (Heirs of the Organized #2) by Kelly Kilburn follows Taryn, a New York mob princess whose life has always been planned by her powerful family, as she arrives at St. Agnes, a college filled with the richest, most corrupt young adults and the danger that comes with their world. When her father promises her in marriage to Liam, heir to Chicago’s Irish mob, Taryn’s dreams of independence slip further from reach and a scandal of her own making puts her squarely in the crosshairs of family expectations and organized crime politics. Liam, known as a playboy but fiercely determined, wants Taryn for himself and will do whatever he can to protect her and make her his wife.
What drew me in was the push and pull between Taryn’s fierce wish for autonomy and Liam’s earnest, unabashed devotion; their chemistry crackled with frustration, warmth, and really genuine moments that made me root for them even when the stakes felt light compared to typical mafia stories. The college setting added a layer of youthful rebellion and self‑discovery that made the romance feel refreshingly alive, though I did want deeper exploration of the darker organized crime stakes.
Rating: 4 out of 5, because its emotional tension and compelling leads kept me fully invested from page one.
What drew me in was the push and pull between Taryn’s fierce wish for autonomy and Liam’s earnest, unabashed devotion; their chemistry crackled with frustration, warmth, and really genuine moments that made me root for them even when the stakes felt light compared to typical mafia stories. The college setting added a layer of youthful rebellion and self‑discovery that made the romance feel refreshingly alive, though I did want deeper exploration of the darker organized crime stakes.
Rating: 4 out of 5, because its emotional tension and compelling leads kept me fully invested from page one.
January 17, 2026
Thank you to Shamless Romantics/The Hive for the ALC/ARC in exchange for a honest review!!
I loved book one of this series and was excited to dive right into this one about Grainnes bestie. I haven’t been hooked by a mafia romance in a while and was surprised for once about what could be coming next! I love a guy that knows what he wants even if he’s gotta arrange a marriage to get the girl🤣🤭 the voice actor for Liam was 10/10
I would love a book about Elizabeth and Matteo 👀
I loved book one of this series and was excited to dive right into this one about Grainnes bestie. I haven’t been hooked by a mafia romance in a while and was surprised for once about what could be coming next! I love a guy that knows what he wants even if he’s gotta arrange a marriage to get the girl🤣🤭 the voice actor for Liam was 10/10
I would love a book about Elizabeth and Matteo 👀
December 6, 2025
thank you to kelly kilburn and harlequin romance for the opportunity to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️ 4/5
🔥 3.5/5 spice
tropes: arranged marriage, he falls first, rich heir x mob princess, forced proximity tension
scandalized is exactly the kind of dramatic & character driven escape you’d expect from a college mafia romance. taryn being a mob princess trying to navigate her own future and liam being the heir with that dangerous but playboy edge really worked for me. it delivers on the tension, the attraction, and the back and forth power dynamic that makes this trope so fun.
what stood out the most was the chemistry and emotional tension between the leads. their push pull feels addictive. the pacing is strong, the writing is super easy to devour, and the drama stays just juicy enough to keep you fully locked in. i also felt like the plotting, character depth, and overall direction were stronger and more cohesive than book one. book two just felt cleaner, more engaging, and way more confident in what it wanted to be.
now for my one big complaint.
if you’re going to tackle the mafia trope, you really have to go there.
the mob world in this series feels soft, almost cushioned, and it doesn’t totally match the stakes the story is trying to set up. when you build a world around power, danger, alliances, and organized crime, readers expect more grit and more intensity. this book hints at darkness but never fully commits to it. the consequences feel mild, the danger is muted, and the mafia side of the story just doesn’t have the bite it could have had.
that said, the romance still shines. the characters are compelling, and the vibes are dramatic and addictive in a way that kept me completely invested. it hits the emotional beats even when the worldbuilding feels a little soft.
overall, this is a strong, fast paced, emotionally charged addition to the series that improves on book one in every way. if you’re in the mood for college chaos, family pressure, and a messy mix of danger and romance, this one delivers. and it’s a short and easy read (only 245 pages!!)
i’ll definitely be continuing the series. i’m excited for whatever comes next, i cannot wait for book three, and my fingers are CROSSED that it’s about rowan and stephanie!!
⭐️ 4/5
🔥 3.5/5 spice
tropes: arranged marriage, he falls first, rich heir x mob princess, forced proximity tension
scandalized is exactly the kind of dramatic & character driven escape you’d expect from a college mafia romance. taryn being a mob princess trying to navigate her own future and liam being the heir with that dangerous but playboy edge really worked for me. it delivers on the tension, the attraction, and the back and forth power dynamic that makes this trope so fun.
what stood out the most was the chemistry and emotional tension between the leads. their push pull feels addictive. the pacing is strong, the writing is super easy to devour, and the drama stays just juicy enough to keep you fully locked in. i also felt like the plotting, character depth, and overall direction were stronger and more cohesive than book one. book two just felt cleaner, more engaging, and way more confident in what it wanted to be.
now for my one big complaint.
if you’re going to tackle the mafia trope, you really have to go there.
the mob world in this series feels soft, almost cushioned, and it doesn’t totally match the stakes the story is trying to set up. when you build a world around power, danger, alliances, and organized crime, readers expect more grit and more intensity. this book hints at darkness but never fully commits to it. the consequences feel mild, the danger is muted, and the mafia side of the story just doesn’t have the bite it could have had.
that said, the romance still shines. the characters are compelling, and the vibes are dramatic and addictive in a way that kept me completely invested. it hits the emotional beats even when the worldbuilding feels a little soft.
overall, this is a strong, fast paced, emotionally charged addition to the series that improves on book one in every way. if you’re in the mood for college chaos, family pressure, and a messy mix of danger and romance, this one delivers. and it’s a short and easy read (only 245 pages!!)
i’ll definitely be continuing the series. i’m excited for whatever comes next, i cannot wait for book three, and my fingers are CROSSED that it’s about rowan and stephanie!!
December 8, 2025
Thanks NetGalley for the opportunity to read this early! <3
4 ⭐️
I absolutely love all things to do with arranged marriages and this definitely did not disappoint. I was immediately hooked from chapter one.
Liam, Liam, Liam… was so down bad and I loved it. I really enjoyed that he started off just obsessed w Taryn and it was him who had to do most of the pining vs it being her. Taryn was a tad annoying tbh for a while, I just couldn’t deal with the constant misery and not taking into account anyone else’s feelings. It didn’t last very long though. Thank god. At the same time though, I did understand the need to have her own independence, so I don’t blame her too much.
“You found me when I didn’t even know I needed to be found. And you held on, even when I didn’t make it easy.” SWOOOOON. God I love these two so much.
The ending did feel a little rushed and I wish we could’ve focused on that a little more. There was a conflict about 90% through and there just wasn’t enough time to really explore that more.
4 ⭐️
I absolutely love all things to do with arranged marriages and this definitely did not disappoint. I was immediately hooked from chapter one.
Liam, Liam, Liam… was so down bad and I loved it. I really enjoyed that he started off just obsessed w Taryn and it was him who had to do most of the pining vs it being her. Taryn was a tad annoying tbh for a while, I just couldn’t deal with the constant misery and not taking into account anyone else’s feelings. It didn’t last very long though. Thank god. At the same time though, I did understand the need to have her own independence, so I don’t blame her too much.
“You found me when I didn’t even know I needed to be found. And you held on, even when I didn’t make it easy.” SWOOOOON. God I love these two so much.
The ending did feel a little rushed and I wish we could’ve focused on that a little more. There was a conflict about 90% through and there just wasn’t enough time to really explore that more.
November 18, 2025
Oh my. I loved book one so much, but this book….YESSSS! Liam is everything. The reformed playboy, touch her & d!e, arranged marriage, GIVE IT ALL TO ME. I loved that it also had the main characters from the first one in it as well. Kelly’s writing is absolutely amazing and if you have not read this series, immediately go start book one. I’m gonna need a third book for sure!
October 15, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Romance and Kelly Kilburn for sharing this ARC with me, in exchange for my honest review.
Scandalized is just so good. Ms. Kelly's world building, character development and writing are unmatched . I was hooked from beginning to end. There is honestly, nothing bad to say about this novel. A light-hearted easy read. The flow never felt rushed or confusing, it was perfect. The way Ms. Kelly tied everything together at the end is superb.
I truly recommend this book to all ya'll.
Scandalized is just so good. Ms. Kelly's world building, character development and writing are unmatched . I was hooked from beginning to end. There is honestly, nothing bad to say about this novel. A light-hearted easy read. The flow never felt rushed or confusing, it was perfect. The way Ms. Kelly tied everything together at the end is superb.
I truly recommend this book to all ya'll.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 🌟
'I have no choice but to follow him into whatever storm is coming next. And maybe, just maybe, this time, I don’t want to fight it.' (loc 2194)
Spicy College Mafia/Mob Romance | Arranged Marriage
This one follows an arranged marriage of sorts with a little bit of mafia turbulence.
It's a sweet college romance with a bit of rough and toughness thrown in... Taryn wants a life outside of the clan, and Liam wants a life with Taryn.
Liam is like a fawning puppy dog with his infatuation and obsession with Taryn, which seems rather juxtaposed to his pre-Taryn playboy persona. Though he's quick to let his unhinged bulldog side out when needed.
'I’ll burn every alliance, every man, and every dollar to ash if it means keeping her safe. She’s my line in the sand now. And God help the man who thinks he can cross it.' (loc 2322)
Taryn came off as a little naive and sheltered with a sprinkling of Elle Woods (Legally Blonde) and/or Cher (Clueless). Though purported to be smart (4.0 gpa, apparently), she was a little behind the curve. Most people want to escape from their projected path because they know what is possibly in store for them. Yet she wants to run away from a life she doesn't really have much knowledge about because it was kept from her... She did show a backbone here and there.
'I take a breath and glance around the room. These men— brilliant, brutal, dangerous— are watching me now. Waiting.' (loc 3932)
And of course, settling into mob forced relationship bliss with a couple who barely know each other, there's bound to be misunderstandings that throw things off kilter.
'“I would kill for you, beauty. Doesn’t make me crazy.”
I arch a brow. “No?”
“No.” His mouth brushes mine. “Just crazy about you.”' (loc 3518)
The pacing was kind of up and down, and it really sped up with some great action toward the end. Enjoyed having Gráinne and Luca back on page, especially in that last action scene.
eARC courtesy of NetGalley | Carina Press / Harlequin Romance
'I have no choice but to follow him into whatever storm is coming next. And maybe, just maybe, this time, I don’t want to fight it.' (loc 2194)
Spicy College Mafia/Mob Romance | Arranged Marriage
This one follows an arranged marriage of sorts with a little bit of mafia turbulence.
It's a sweet college romance with a bit of rough and toughness thrown in... Taryn wants a life outside of the clan, and Liam wants a life with Taryn.
Liam is like a fawning puppy dog with his infatuation and obsession with Taryn, which seems rather juxtaposed to his pre-Taryn playboy persona. Though he's quick to let his unhinged bulldog side out when needed.
'I’ll burn every alliance, every man, and every dollar to ash if it means keeping her safe. She’s my line in the sand now. And God help the man who thinks he can cross it.' (loc 2322)
Taryn came off as a little naive and sheltered with a sprinkling of Elle Woods (Legally Blonde) and/or Cher (Clueless). Though purported to be smart (4.0 gpa, apparently), she was a little behind the curve. Most people want to escape from their projected path because they know what is possibly in store for them. Yet she wants to run away from a life she doesn't really have much knowledge about because it was kept from her... She did show a backbone here and there.
'I take a breath and glance around the room. These men— brilliant, brutal, dangerous— are watching me now. Waiting.' (loc 3932)
And of course, settling into mob forced relationship bliss with a couple who barely know each other, there's bound to be misunderstandings that throw things off kilter.
'“I would kill for you, beauty. Doesn’t make me crazy.”
I arch a brow. “No?”
“No.” His mouth brushes mine. “Just crazy about you.”' (loc 3518)
The pacing was kind of up and down, and it really sped up with some great action toward the end. Enjoyed having Gráinne and Luca back on page, especially in that last action scene.
eARC courtesy of NetGalley | Carina Press / Harlequin Romance
December 22, 2025
I liiiiiked this book but I liked the first one better. The spicy scenes were perfection but the plot line lost me a bit in the middle. The ending was really good and brought it all together well! I liked the overlap with the characters from the first book. Overall I would highly recommend!
January 22, 2026
3.5 but rounded down for good reads. I’m getting obsessed with this series!!!!
January 31, 2026
Was this better than book one? Yes. Do i like it? NOPE.
Taryn was so annoying that i couldnt wait to finish this book.
Taryn was so annoying that i couldnt wait to finish this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mafia, arranged marriage, hes secretly insane, and many *My wife* moments!? Say less. The amount of my wife moments had me melting like a puddle🫠🫠
Liam is down BAD. He falls first, fast, and hard. Taryn is a fmc with a backbone! I loved the dynamic between these two, the banter, the obsession, the stalking🫣. I enjoyed being in this world. Scandalized is the 2nd book in this series but can be read as a standalone. Im running to read the first book Weaponized asap! I enjoyed all the secondary characters but especially Ryan. I LOVE the autism rep in this book! I hope he gets his own story soon!
thank you for this arc harlequin!!
Liam is down BAD. He falls first, fast, and hard. Taryn is a fmc with a backbone! I loved the dynamic between these two, the banter, the obsession, the stalking🫣. I enjoyed being in this world. Scandalized is the 2nd book in this series but can be read as a standalone. Im running to read the first book Weaponized asap! I enjoyed all the secondary characters but especially Ryan. I LOVE the autism rep in this book! I hope he gets his own story soon!
thank you for this arc harlequin!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An unwilling pawn in a game of survival, she must choose between the life she wants and the man she can’t resist.
Taryn’s a New York mob princess, and every step of her life has been planned for her.
Where to go to school. Who to trust. Even who to marry.
St. Agnes, a college for America’s richest and most corrupt, is supposed to be giving Taryn the world-class education she needs to walk away. But when her father promises her to the heir of Chicago’s Irish mob, our marriage a key to a crucial alliance, Taryn’s dream of a new life slips further out of reach.
When her defiance spirals into a scandal, suddenly she’s a problem the mob wants to erase.
Taryn will be known as someone other than someone’s daughter. Or someone’s wife.
Even if she has to sacrifice everything to do it.
Everyone thinks Liam’s a playboy.
It’s true that he navigates life with an easy smile and a quick laugh. But he always gets what he wants.
And Liam wants Taryn.
The first time she opened her sassy mouth, he was hooked. Now that her world is falling apart, there’s nothing he won’t do to save her.
Even if she doesn’t want saving from a man like him.
Tropes: Arranged Marriage, He Falls First, Rich Heir x Mob Princess, Forced Proximity, Tension, Mafia Romance, Forced Marriage, College Setting, Contemporary, Mafia Romance, New Adult, Suspense, Young Adult, Dark Romance, Arranged/Forced Marriage, Enemies-to-Lovers, College Romance, MF Romance, Alpha Male, Forbidden Love, Arranged Marriage Meets Forced Proximity, Incredible, Undeniable, Slow-Building Chemistry, Adult Conversations (No Childish Miscommunication!!), Mafia romance that’s Lighter, Fast-Paced, and Bingeable, Elite College Setting with Rich-Kid Corruption, Protective MMC energy, Great final-act tension + escalating stakes, The Inheritance Games but spicier, Arranged marriage + dangerous families, He-falls-first heroes, Fast, Addictive College Mafia Romance
Scandalized is the 2nd book in the Heirs of the Organized Series by Kelly Kilburn.
Kelly Kilburn has created a story that is precisely what we would expect for this kind of book. It’s dramatic and its character driven giving you an escape from the real world. And Kelly has given you everything you would expect from a college and mafia romance.
Taryn is a mob princess who is attempting to navigate her way through life creating her own future. Liam is an heir in his own right but he’s happy to ride on his role as an heir and walks through life as a playboy. Liam’s edge actually really worked for me, it helped to amp up the tension, the attraction, and when Liam and Taryn are finally face to face, it helps to play on the back-and-forth between them, the power dynamics and honestly that’s what makes this trope so much fun.
What stood out to me was the chemistry and emotional tension between Taryn and Liam. Their push-and-pull is so addictive. Kelly did an amazing job with her pacing and it’s just so strong. Kelly’s writing so easy to read, and you get pulled in without realizing it and you quickly find yourself enthralled and the drama just keeps getting more and more exciting that keeps you reading and turning page after page.
And the plotting, the subplots, the storyline, the character depth, the character arc, and just the overall direction of the story were so strong and it was so cohesive then even the first book was. This book honestly felt so clean, engaging, and Kelly felt as though she had gained so much more confident in her writing and in what she wanted this book to be.
Sadly, there is one complaint that I do have. I have read a lot of mafia books, and if you are going to use the mafia trope, then you have to commit and you have to really go there and you have to dive in and go deep.
In Scandalized, the mafia world feels soft, cushioned, and I felt as though it didn’t match up to the full stakes Kelly was truly trying to set up. If you are going to set up a world around power, danger, alliances, and especially organized crime, readers (especially those who know this genre and trope) expect you to go deep, expect grit and intensity. Kelly hints at the darkness but she doesn’t really go there. And when you get to the consequences, they feel mild, the danger itself feels mild, and as for the mafia story, there’s no bite to it like it should have had, like it had the great potential to have.
Despite that, the romance between Taryn and Liam shine bright like the sun. The characters from Liam and Taryn to the secondary characters are all compelling and all the tenor is so dramatic and you can’t help but find it addictive in ways that will keep you invested to the very last word. You’ll find that Scandalized hits all the emotional notes even if the worldbuilding can feel a little bit soft at times.
I have to say that this is a strong, fast paced, emotional rollercoaster ride, and it’s a wonderful addition to a series that I find improves on the first book in every way possible.
If you are searching for college chaos, family pressure, a messy mix of danger and romance then Scandalized is going to be perfect for you and you’ll find it delivers. And it’s not a long read coming in at 245 pages!
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. Personally I really hope that it follows Rowan and Stephanie but who ever it’s about I can’t wait to read it.
I highly recommend this series and I love that you can read it in what ever order you want to and Scandalized in an amazing addition and this is a stunning read that you don’t want to miss!
Taryn’s a New York mob princess, and every step of her life has been planned for her.
Where to go to school. Who to trust. Even who to marry.
St. Agnes, a college for America’s richest and most corrupt, is supposed to be giving Taryn the world-class education she needs to walk away. But when her father promises her to the heir of Chicago’s Irish mob, our marriage a key to a crucial alliance, Taryn’s dream of a new life slips further out of reach.
When her defiance spirals into a scandal, suddenly she’s a problem the mob wants to erase.
Taryn will be known as someone other than someone’s daughter. Or someone’s wife.
Even if she has to sacrifice everything to do it.
Everyone thinks Liam’s a playboy.
It’s true that he navigates life with an easy smile and a quick laugh. But he always gets what he wants.
And Liam wants Taryn.
The first time she opened her sassy mouth, he was hooked. Now that her world is falling apart, there’s nothing he won’t do to save her.
Even if she doesn’t want saving from a man like him.
Tropes: Arranged Marriage, He Falls First, Rich Heir x Mob Princess, Forced Proximity, Tension, Mafia Romance, Forced Marriage, College Setting, Contemporary, Mafia Romance, New Adult, Suspense, Young Adult, Dark Romance, Arranged/Forced Marriage, Enemies-to-Lovers, College Romance, MF Romance, Alpha Male, Forbidden Love, Arranged Marriage Meets Forced Proximity, Incredible, Undeniable, Slow-Building Chemistry, Adult Conversations (No Childish Miscommunication!!), Mafia romance that’s Lighter, Fast-Paced, and Bingeable, Elite College Setting with Rich-Kid Corruption, Protective MMC energy, Great final-act tension + escalating stakes, The Inheritance Games but spicier, Arranged marriage + dangerous families, He-falls-first heroes, Fast, Addictive College Mafia Romance
Scandalized is the 2nd book in the Heirs of the Organized Series by Kelly Kilburn.
Kelly Kilburn has created a story that is precisely what we would expect for this kind of book. It’s dramatic and its character driven giving you an escape from the real world. And Kelly has given you everything you would expect from a college and mafia romance.
Taryn is a mob princess who is attempting to navigate her way through life creating her own future. Liam is an heir in his own right but he’s happy to ride on his role as an heir and walks through life as a playboy. Liam’s edge actually really worked for me, it helped to amp up the tension, the attraction, and when Liam and Taryn are finally face to face, it helps to play on the back-and-forth between them, the power dynamics and honestly that’s what makes this trope so much fun.
What stood out to me was the chemistry and emotional tension between Taryn and Liam. Their push-and-pull is so addictive. Kelly did an amazing job with her pacing and it’s just so strong. Kelly’s writing so easy to read, and you get pulled in without realizing it and you quickly find yourself enthralled and the drama just keeps getting more and more exciting that keeps you reading and turning page after page.
And the plotting, the subplots, the storyline, the character depth, the character arc, and just the overall direction of the story were so strong and it was so cohesive then even the first book was. This book honestly felt so clean, engaging, and Kelly felt as though she had gained so much more confident in her writing and in what she wanted this book to be.
Sadly, there is one complaint that I do have. I have read a lot of mafia books, and if you are going to use the mafia trope, then you have to commit and you have to really go there and you have to dive in and go deep.
In Scandalized, the mafia world feels soft, cushioned, and I felt as though it didn’t match up to the full stakes Kelly was truly trying to set up. If you are going to set up a world around power, danger, alliances, and especially organized crime, readers (especially those who know this genre and trope) expect you to go deep, expect grit and intensity. Kelly hints at the darkness but she doesn’t really go there. And when you get to the consequences, they feel mild, the danger itself feels mild, and as for the mafia story, there’s no bite to it like it should have had, like it had the great potential to have.
Despite that, the romance between Taryn and Liam shine bright like the sun. The characters from Liam and Taryn to the secondary characters are all compelling and all the tenor is so dramatic and you can’t help but find it addictive in ways that will keep you invested to the very last word. You’ll find that Scandalized hits all the emotional notes even if the worldbuilding can feel a little bit soft at times.
I have to say that this is a strong, fast paced, emotional rollercoaster ride, and it’s a wonderful addition to a series that I find improves on the first book in every way possible.
If you are searching for college chaos, family pressure, a messy mix of danger and romance then Scandalized is going to be perfect for you and you’ll find it delivers. And it’s not a long read coming in at 245 pages!
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. Personally I really hope that it follows Rowan and Stephanie but who ever it’s about I can’t wait to read it.
I highly recommend this series and I love that you can read it in what ever order you want to and Scandalized in an amazing addition and this is a stunning read that you don’t want to miss!
November 29, 2025
I'm not really into New Adult romance but they did a good job of not making the characters sound like bratty tweens so there's that - they did feel like legit college age.
The "Elite" Academy was nothing special. no secret handshake or even a fancy chandelier. What I got was... a regular campus where she's taking freshman level courses for some reason.
FMC goes from having a bf to arranged marriage bliss in zero.1 seconds. There is no angsty tension here - like zero.
She goes from thinking Liam the MMC is the campus joke to next chapter? Smoldering heartthrob. Did he stumble into a Glow-Up Fairy's cottage between scenes? Was there a training montage I accidentally skipped? The man went from zero to Hemsworth with NO explanation and I feel GASLIT.
Mafia Princess" on a Budget Taryn is supposedly mafia royalty but she's squirreling away cash for law school and fretting over GROCERIES? Girl, where are the family coffers? The blood money? The comically large inheritance? She's out here living that broke college student life while allegedly being connected to organized crime. Make it make sense!
Too many F#$@#ING Friends Elizabeth. Stephanie. Grainne. Possibly others. I cannot tell you a single distinguishing trait among them because they function as one amorphous blob of girl-talk, endlessly rehashing plot points like a Greek chorus nobody asked for.
Fake rescue Taryn gets kidnapped and who swoops in? Not a morally gray love interest. Nope! Her BESTIE appears out of nowhere, blasting out tires with the confidence of someone who watched one action movie and said "I got this." It was bonkers. Is this a butch Girl Power kind of book. I was also deeply confused.
The Verdict: Cozy college romance wearing a mafia trench coat it found at a thrift store. Adjust expectations and enjoy the endlessly boring girl talk - seriously that makes up like 60% of this book.
⭐⭐½
The "Elite" Academy was nothing special. no secret handshake or even a fancy chandelier. What I got was... a regular campus where she's taking freshman level courses for some reason.
FMC goes from having a bf to arranged marriage bliss in zero.1 seconds. There is no angsty tension here - like zero.
She goes from thinking Liam the MMC is the campus joke to next chapter? Smoldering heartthrob. Did he stumble into a Glow-Up Fairy's cottage between scenes? Was there a training montage I accidentally skipped? The man went from zero to Hemsworth with NO explanation and I feel GASLIT.
Mafia Princess" on a Budget Taryn is supposedly mafia royalty but she's squirreling away cash for law school and fretting over GROCERIES? Girl, where are the family coffers? The blood money? The comically large inheritance? She's out here living that broke college student life while allegedly being connected to organized crime. Make it make sense!
Too many F#$@#ING Friends Elizabeth. Stephanie. Grainne. Possibly others. I cannot tell you a single distinguishing trait among them because they function as one amorphous blob of girl-talk, endlessly rehashing plot points like a Greek chorus nobody asked for.
Fake rescue Taryn gets kidnapped and who swoops in? Not a morally gray love interest. Nope! Her BESTIE appears out of nowhere, blasting out tires with the confidence of someone who watched one action movie and said "I got this." It was bonkers. Is this a butch Girl Power kind of book. I was also deeply confused.
The Verdict: Cozy college romance wearing a mafia trench coat it found at a thrift store. Adjust expectations and enjoy the endlessly boring girl talk - seriously that makes up like 60% of this book.
⭐⭐½
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Scandalized is the second book in the Heirs of the Organized, a mafia college romance series by Kelly Kilburn. The author features characters from different organized crime “families” in New York and Chicago. This book is about Liam and Taryn, who find themselves in an arranged marriage situation to establish a strong link between their two clans.
Taryn is a college senior at St. Agnes and is secretly planning to leave her community when she graduates to attend Stanford Law. She has been saving and planning this for years, but her plans are thwarted when her family tells her that she is betrothed to Liam McGuinness and will marry him that year. Taryn doesn’t know Liam and her life is turned completely upside down when she learns that she has to marry him.
Liam is also a senior at St. Agnes, and is the heir to an Irish mafia family business in Chicago. He has admired Taryn from afar, and chose her as the woman he wanted to marry. From their first meeting, he is genuine and caring with her. He falls first and hard, and knows that he wants to spend his life with her. Taryn isn’t so sure, and they encounter some roadblocks that may blow up their relationship and their engagement.
I enjoyed this story, though I felt more longing and heat between Grainne and Luca in Weaponized, the first book in the series. Liam and Taryn do have good physical chemistry, and Liam’s gentle caring for Taryn breaks through her defenses. Both main characters are yearning to be seen and loved for who they really are, and they find this in each other. Overall, Liam and Taryn end up being a good match and find their HEA by the end of the story.
Thank you to Kelly Kilburn, Carina Press/Harlequin Publishing, and NetGalley for an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Taryn is a college senior at St. Agnes and is secretly planning to leave her community when she graduates to attend Stanford Law. She has been saving and planning this for years, but her plans are thwarted when her family tells her that she is betrothed to Liam McGuinness and will marry him that year. Taryn doesn’t know Liam and her life is turned completely upside down when she learns that she has to marry him.
Liam is also a senior at St. Agnes, and is the heir to an Irish mafia family business in Chicago. He has admired Taryn from afar, and chose her as the woman he wanted to marry. From their first meeting, he is genuine and caring with her. He falls first and hard, and knows that he wants to spend his life with her. Taryn isn’t so sure, and they encounter some roadblocks that may blow up their relationship and their engagement.
I enjoyed this story, though I felt more longing and heat between Grainne and Luca in Weaponized, the first book in the series. Liam and Taryn do have good physical chemistry, and Liam’s gentle caring for Taryn breaks through her defenses. Both main characters are yearning to be seen and loved for who they really are, and they find this in each other. Overall, Liam and Taryn end up being a good match and find their HEA by the end of the story.
Thank you to Kelly Kilburn, Carina Press/Harlequin Publishing, and NetGalley for an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
📅 Release Date: January 20, 2026
An unwilling pawn in a game of survival, she must choose between the life she wants and the man she can’t resist.
My Thoughts:
What a way to close out my reading year...with an absolute banger! This book had everything I crave in mafia romance: danger, sizzling chemistry, and a heroine who refuses to be defined by anyone else’s rules.
Taryn, the mob princess with a sharp tongue and a rebellious streak, completely stole my heart. Watching her fight for her own identity while navigating the treacherous world of alliances and betrayals was addictive. And Liam? The rakish playboy who hides steel beneath his charm—he’s the kind of hero you can’t help but fall for. Their banter is electric, their passion undeniable, and their loyalty tested in ways that had me flipping pages like my life depended on it.
Why You Should Read It:
❤️High-stakes mafia drama with a college twist.
❤️Explosive chemistry between a defiant heroine and a hero who refuses to let her go.
❤️Standalone friendly...you can dive right in without reading book one (though now I have to go back because I’m hooked).
❤️Unforgettable ending that left me grinning, swooning, and already desperate for more from this author.
This is hands-down my favorite mafia romance of the year. Dark, sexy, and surprisingly heartfelt, it’s the perfect blend of grit and glamour. If you’re looking for a story that will keep you up past midnight, this is it.
Huge recommendation for fans of mafia romance...you won’t regret picking this one up.
* thanks to NetGalley for the copy of the book
🎶gangsta by kehlani
🎶love me harder by ariana
🎶criminal by britney
An unwilling pawn in a game of survival, she must choose between the life she wants and the man she can’t resist.
My Thoughts:
What a way to close out my reading year...with an absolute banger! This book had everything I crave in mafia romance: danger, sizzling chemistry, and a heroine who refuses to be defined by anyone else’s rules.
Taryn, the mob princess with a sharp tongue and a rebellious streak, completely stole my heart. Watching her fight for her own identity while navigating the treacherous world of alliances and betrayals was addictive. And Liam? The rakish playboy who hides steel beneath his charm—he’s the kind of hero you can’t help but fall for. Their banter is electric, their passion undeniable, and their loyalty tested in ways that had me flipping pages like my life depended on it.
Why You Should Read It:
❤️High-stakes mafia drama with a college twist.
❤️Explosive chemistry between a defiant heroine and a hero who refuses to let her go.
❤️Standalone friendly...you can dive right in without reading book one (though now I have to go back because I’m hooked).
❤️Unforgettable ending that left me grinning, swooning, and already desperate for more from this author.
This is hands-down my favorite mafia romance of the year. Dark, sexy, and surprisingly heartfelt, it’s the perfect blend of grit and glamour. If you’re looking for a story that will keep you up past midnight, this is it.
Huge recommendation for fans of mafia romance...you won’t regret picking this one up.
* thanks to NetGalley for the copy of the book
🎶gangsta by kehlani
🎶love me harder by ariana
🎶criminal by britney
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Harlequin Carina Press for the advance reader copy and to HTP Audio for the free audiobook. These opinions are my own.
Scandalized is the second book of the Heirs of the Organized series. I read Weaponized when it released last year and have been looking forward to when Scandalized would become available. While this sequel could stand alone, I think it works best if these are read in order.
They are new adult mafia romances set as a university that is a safe zone and includes children from many clans and families. In this book, we focus on Liam and Taryn. From the previous book, we know Liam as a playboy and generally happy guy. Here we get to know him much better and see what's behind the carefree mask he wears.
The book has great vibes in which he falls first and is extremely protective. I loved seeing just how nuanced and ambitious Taryn was as a character. She is such a fascinating mix of sheltered and naive and brilliant and strategic. There were a few aspects of their relationship and especially its origins that I wanted to see addressed a bit better.
But overall, this was just a delightful read that delivered on its promise. I quite literally could not go to sleep until I finished. Fortunately, I didn't have too early of a morning the next day.
Stacy Gonzalez and J. Hunter Ackerman were admirable narrators. I immersive read, alternating between reading audio, ebook, or both at once. They added enough to my enjoyment that I chose to include the audio whenever possible in my reading experience.
4.25 stars
Scandalized is the second book of the Heirs of the Organized series. I read Weaponized when it released last year and have been looking forward to when Scandalized would become available. While this sequel could stand alone, I think it works best if these are read in order.
They are new adult mafia romances set as a university that is a safe zone and includes children from many clans and families. In this book, we focus on Liam and Taryn. From the previous book, we know Liam as a playboy and generally happy guy. Here we get to know him much better and see what's behind the carefree mask he wears.
The book has great vibes in which he falls first and is extremely protective. I loved seeing just how nuanced and ambitious Taryn was as a character. She is such a fascinating mix of sheltered and naive and brilliant and strategic. There were a few aspects of their relationship and especially its origins that I wanted to see addressed a bit better.
But overall, this was just a delightful read that delivered on its promise. I quite literally could not go to sleep until I finished. Fortunately, I didn't have too early of a morning the next day.
Stacy Gonzalez and J. Hunter Ackerman were admirable narrators. I immersive read, alternating between reading audio, ebook, or both at once. They added enough to my enjoyment that I chose to include the audio whenever possible in my reading experience.
4.25 stars
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 rounded up
I really enjoyed Scandalized. It was an easy, fast-paced mafia romance and a genuinely quick read that kept me engaged the whole way through.
The relationship between Liam and Taryn was the highlight for me. I loved the arranged marriage + he falls first dynamic, and Liam being completely down bad from the start was chef’s kiss. Their chemistry worked, and I appreciated that their conversations felt mostly adult and emotionally grounded rather than overly dramatic for the sake of it.
That said, I did feel like a few important things were missing. Liam repeatedly talks about how he’s wanted Taryn from the moment he first saw her and that he actively manipulated events to make their marriage happen… but that never actually gets addressed between them. Considering it’s literally the reason they’re together, it really should have been a conversation in the book.
I also felt like the third-act conflict wrapped up a little too neatly. It was introduced late, had potential for real tension, and then just… ended. I wanted more fallout, more emotional weight, and more time spent resolving it.
While this is technically a mafia romance, the mafia elements felt pretty soft. The danger and stakes were hinted at more than fully explored, which made it feel lighter than expected. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing....it makes for an easy, enjoyable read, but readers looking for darker, grittier mafia vibes might find it a bit tame.
I really enjoyed Scandalized. It was an easy, fast-paced mafia romance and a genuinely quick read that kept me engaged the whole way through.
The relationship between Liam and Taryn was the highlight for me. I loved the arranged marriage + he falls first dynamic, and Liam being completely down bad from the start was chef’s kiss. Their chemistry worked, and I appreciated that their conversations felt mostly adult and emotionally grounded rather than overly dramatic for the sake of it.
That said, I did feel like a few important things were missing. Liam repeatedly talks about how he’s wanted Taryn from the moment he first saw her and that he actively manipulated events to make their marriage happen… but that never actually gets addressed between them. Considering it’s literally the reason they’re together, it really should have been a conversation in the book.
I also felt like the third-act conflict wrapped up a little too neatly. It was introduced late, had potential for real tension, and then just… ended. I wanted more fallout, more emotional weight, and more time spent resolving it.
While this is technically a mafia romance, the mafia elements felt pretty soft. The danger and stakes were hinted at more than fully explored, which made it feel lighter than expected. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing....it makes for an easy, enjoyable read, but readers looking for darker, grittier mafia vibes might find it a bit tame.
January 20, 2026
I would like to thank the publisher for sending me an audio-arc in exchange for an honest review through NetGalley.
Taryn is a mob princess – expected to do everything her parents have asked her to and, eventually, marry for the betterment of the clan, though she has no intentions of doing so. She’s almost out of there when her father tells her that she’s been promised to the heir of Chicago’s Irish mob in order to secure an alliance. Liam has a bit of a reputation for being a playboy, but all he wants is Taryn. When Taryn finds herself in the center of a scandal and Liam offers to help her, it’s up to the two of them to fix everything if they have any hope of stopping a war before it ever happens.
I loved Taryn and Liam. Taryn just wants to be independent and do her own thing, and Liam definitely supports her in every way that he can. I loved how much Liam was willing to risk for her safety, going so far as to take the blame for what happened with the money. And I loved that Taryn, while innocent and clueless as to what was really happening within the family business, wasn’t scared away by the truth and accepted everything. I loved seeing things from both of their POVs, especially as the narrators did a fantastic job with this. I love Taryn and Liam, I loved seeing bits of Gráinne and Lucas throughout this, I loved the side characters, and the romance and spice were excellent. Can’t wait to see where the next book will go.
Taryn is a mob princess – expected to do everything her parents have asked her to and, eventually, marry for the betterment of the clan, though she has no intentions of doing so. She’s almost out of there when her father tells her that she’s been promised to the heir of Chicago’s Irish mob in order to secure an alliance. Liam has a bit of a reputation for being a playboy, but all he wants is Taryn. When Taryn finds herself in the center of a scandal and Liam offers to help her, it’s up to the two of them to fix everything if they have any hope of stopping a war before it ever happens.
I loved Taryn and Liam. Taryn just wants to be independent and do her own thing, and Liam definitely supports her in every way that he can. I loved how much Liam was willing to risk for her safety, going so far as to take the blame for what happened with the money. And I loved that Taryn, while innocent and clueless as to what was really happening within the family business, wasn’t scared away by the truth and accepted everything. I loved seeing things from both of their POVs, especially as the narrators did a fantastic job with this. I love Taryn and Liam, I loved seeing bits of Gráinne and Lucas throughout this, I loved the side characters, and the romance and spice were excellent. Can’t wait to see where the next book will go.
January 31, 2026
4 stars! I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. This year, I wanted to diversify my reading and decided now would be a good time to pick up a dark romance. Let me just say, I was a big fan of this! The few dark romances I have read in the past haven’t been my favorite but this was definitely up my alley. Our FMC was a complex character and although I was a bit annoyed with her at first, I also felt for her situation. I related to her when it came to how she plans everything and the way she’s feels when those plans don’t work out. I enjoyed seeing her character development and seeing her grow and learn to allow her self to love and to reimagine the life she once feared. I also really enjoyed the friendships she had and how much they helped her to just be the best version of herself. Her friends showed her love while also putting her in her place which is exactly what friends are supposed to do. Now our MMC Liam, wow I’m a big fan. Although at first I was a bit skeptical because he was very obsessed very early on, he showed himself to be so patient, understanding and loving. Seeing them both grow together was so nice and I loved the development of their relationship. The plot we following was also pretty interesting and I love how Liam gave Taryn the space to choose why role she wanted to play in the clan. I just loved the norms that were broken when it came to the mob and how they both did it together. I would definitely recommend!
November 23, 2025
At first, I wasn’t sure about Taryn and Liam’s dynamic. Liam was drawn to her from the start—intensely, maybe even obsessively—while Taryn was unresponsive, which only made him chase harder. When they’re forced into marriage for family safety 👀, the tension was unreal.
I loved how honest Taryn was about her feelings. She wasn’t mean or unreasonable, so their conversations always felt real, witty, and adult. The chemistry between them is electric, and the dialogue is sharp, adding so much to the story.
The characters are genuinely sweet and easy to root for. My only tiny gripe was a brief manipulative moment with a bank account, but it didn’t overshadow the story.
World-building, character development, and writing are all top-tier. I also loved seeing their friends and family, especially Ryan, come to life. Tropes like the reformed playboy, “touch her and die,” and arranged marriage? All in. And bringing back characters from the first book was such a treat.
The plot is fast-paced, with tension ramping up toward the end. I wished for a little more suspense when Taryn was nearly captured, and the ending felt slightly rushed, but it leaves plenty of room for what’s next. What really stands out is how seamlessly the romance blends with the mob-world setting—rival clans, forbidden love, and Liam fighting for what he wants no matter the cost.
I loved how honest Taryn was about her feelings. She wasn’t mean or unreasonable, so their conversations always felt real, witty, and adult. The chemistry between them is electric, and the dialogue is sharp, adding so much to the story.
The characters are genuinely sweet and easy to root for. My only tiny gripe was a brief manipulative moment with a bank account, but it didn’t overshadow the story.
World-building, character development, and writing are all top-tier. I also loved seeing their friends and family, especially Ryan, come to life. Tropes like the reformed playboy, “touch her and die,” and arranged marriage? All in. And bringing back characters from the first book was such a treat.
The plot is fast-paced, with tension ramping up toward the end. I wished for a little more suspense when Taryn was nearly captured, and the ending felt slightly rushed, but it leaves plenty of room for what’s next. What really stands out is how seamlessly the romance blends with the mob-world setting—rival clans, forbidden love, and Liam fighting for what he wants no matter the cost.
January 22, 2026
This is the second book in this series and while you can read this as a standalone I recommend reading the first book before reading this. This takes place in a college setting where all the mafia and mob kids go to college. Who you make friends with matter and marrying someone makes alliances stronger. This book follows Taryn and Liam who were put together in an arranged marriage. Liam is the heir to the Chicago Irish Mob and Taryn is the daughter of an Irish Mobster from New York. Their marriage is to build the alliance between Chicago and New York. While there is attraction between the two of them Taryn wants to go to Law School in California and out of the mob life and marry into it. Liam wants Taryn and convinces her that he is the best choice for her to be married to out of the other options her family could choose. This series is unique and unlike other mafia/academy setting books I have read. It makes you root for the morally gray characters to rise above challenges, fall in love, and live happily ever after. There is an autistic character in this book that was well written and showed how autistic people can be perceived by others who don’t understand them. I love this series and am looking forward to seeing where this series goes and what other couples we get to follow. Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy.
January 24, 2026
4.75-5⭐️
3🌶️It’s almost, almost perfect yet I was bothered by the MMC’s history being a playboy/manwhor3. He was totally known. But that changes everything when he decided that since his fate would have to have an arrange marriage soon, he was planning to be with a woman he somehow had laid eyes afar. He was that before but it totally change everything for his woman. The OW/OM gave me whiplash! But since the MMC was redeemable from being a playboy, his character and the story kept interesting. Gosh he was different and something! Bec of both past they had each relationship intimates to others, the hero was focused on changing to stick to being faithful and loyal to each other. Willing to give up and face his new fate. It flutters my stomach how patient this hero while the heroine was giving him an opposite attitude yet the hero was determined to have the woman accept him and like him. This was so good and it satisfies my needs for this kind of trope. I wanted to put him as safe but given the fact that his previous shenanigans it’s kinda hard but yet I still kept accepting that he’s somehow better. Expected more of the upcoming series and can’t wait for the other characters to have their own book. It was really fun and addicting. Especially how charming the hero is and how he praise her through and through. Ugghhhh *jealous mode* lol 😂
3🌶️It’s almost, almost perfect yet I was bothered by the MMC’s history being a playboy/manwhor3. He was totally known. But that changes everything when he decided that since his fate would have to have an arrange marriage soon, he was planning to be with a woman he somehow had laid eyes afar. He was that before but it totally change everything for his woman. The OW/OM gave me whiplash! But since the MMC was redeemable from being a playboy, his character and the story kept interesting. Gosh he was different and something! Bec of both past they had each relationship intimates to others, the hero was focused on changing to stick to being faithful and loyal to each other. Willing to give up and face his new fate. It flutters my stomach how patient this hero while the heroine was giving him an opposite attitude yet the hero was determined to have the woman accept him and like him. This was so good and it satisfies my needs for this kind of trope. I wanted to put him as safe but given the fact that his previous shenanigans it’s kinda hard but yet I still kept accepting that he’s somehow better. Expected more of the upcoming series and can’t wait for the other characters to have their own book. It was really fun and addicting. Especially how charming the hero is and how he praise her through and through. Ugghhhh *jealous mode* lol 😂
January 24, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐ ARC Review
Scandalized (Heirs of the Organized #2) by Kelly Kilburn
🖤 Thank you to NetGalley and Carina Press for the free copy. This is my honest review. 🖤 
This was a good arranged marriage romance, dramatic, tense, and honestly kind of addictive. If you like mafia politics mixed with college/high-society vibes and “you’re marrying him whether you like it or not” energy… yes. This delivers. 😌💍
Taryn is a New York mob princess whose life is basically one long “you don’t get to choose” moment. 
And then enters Liam the “everyone thinks I’m a playboy” guy who is… annoyingly charming and also (unfortunately for my emotional stability) pretty sweet. 
I’m sorry, but Liam is a sweet pie. 🥧💙
He has that “I’ll smile while I rearrange your life” vibe, and I liked him a lot.
The one thing that kept it at 4 stars:
Taryn… girl. 😅
She was a bit annoying sometimes. I wanted her to be more agreeable with some things (not everything), but I also get where it’s coming from, she’s trying to hold onto control in a world that’s constantly stealing it from her. So yes, her reactions make sense… but I still wanted to gently shake her once or twice. 🤏🙂
Overall:
• Arranged marriage tension
• Solid chemistry
• Liam being quietly lovable 🥧
• FMC sometimes testing my patience 😅
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved this one. It was a fast, addictive read that I flew through and honestly did not want to put down. I listened while reading and the immersive experience worked so well for this story. The pacing stayed tight, the tension stayed high, and it never felt like it dragged.
The romance was exactly what I want in a mafia love story. There’s obsession, devotion, protection, and that constant push and pull where the stakes feel personal. The chemistry between the leads felt natural and emotionally charged, not rushed, and I really enjoyed how their dynamic evolved as the story unfolded.
I also appreciated how easy it was to sink into the world. The college setting mixed with the mafia elements made it feel dangerous but still fun, and the balance between romance and plot kept things moving. It had just enough drama, just enough spice, and plenty of swoony moments.
Overall this was such an enjoyable read. Quick, engaging, and perfect if you’re in the mood for a mafia romance that delivers on chemistry and tension. I finished it smiling and immediately wanted more.
Highly recommend if you love arranged marriage, he falls first, obsessive MMC energy, and a strong FMC finding her footing.
The romance was exactly what I want in a mafia love story. There’s obsession, devotion, protection, and that constant push and pull where the stakes feel personal. The chemistry between the leads felt natural and emotionally charged, not rushed, and I really enjoyed how their dynamic evolved as the story unfolded.
I also appreciated how easy it was to sink into the world. The college setting mixed with the mafia elements made it feel dangerous but still fun, and the balance between romance and plot kept things moving. It had just enough drama, just enough spice, and plenty of swoony moments.
Overall this was such an enjoyable read. Quick, engaging, and perfect if you’re in the mood for a mafia romance that delivers on chemistry and tension. I finished it smiling and immediately wanted more.
Highly recommend if you love arranged marriage, he falls first, obsessive MMC energy, and a strong FMC finding her footing.
January 28, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️¾ Scandalized by Kelly Kilburn
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Scandalized. It was an engaging, fast-paced read that kept me turning pages, especially in the first half. The premise was fun and juicy, and Kelly Kilburn does a great job creating tension and chemistry that pulls you in quickly. I was invested early and genuinely curious to see how everything would unravel.
That said, while I enjoyed the story overall, it didn’t fully stick the landing for me. Some plot points felt a little rushed, and a few emotional beats that should have hit harder didn’t quite get the space they needed. I also found myself wanting more depth from the characters—there were moments where their choices felt more driven by the plot than by fully developed motivations.
The romance had its highlights and definite sparks, but at times it leaned a bit predictable, which took away some of the impact. Still, the drama was entertaining, and the writing flowed well enough that I never felt bored or tempted to put it down.
Overall, Scandalized was a solid, enjoyable read with plenty of intrigue and romance—just not quite a standout for me. I’d absolutely recommend it to readers who enjoy scandal-driven plots and quick, dramatic romances. ⭐️⭐️⭐️¾
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Scandalized. It was an engaging, fast-paced read that kept me turning pages, especially in the first half. The premise was fun and juicy, and Kelly Kilburn does a great job creating tension and chemistry that pulls you in quickly. I was invested early and genuinely curious to see how everything would unravel.
That said, while I enjoyed the story overall, it didn’t fully stick the landing for me. Some plot points felt a little rushed, and a few emotional beats that should have hit harder didn’t quite get the space they needed. I also found myself wanting more depth from the characters—there were moments where their choices felt more driven by the plot than by fully developed motivations.
The romance had its highlights and definite sparks, but at times it leaned a bit predictable, which took away some of the impact. Still, the drama was entertaining, and the writing flowed well enough that I never felt bored or tempted to put it down.
Overall, Scandalized was a solid, enjoyable read with plenty of intrigue and romance—just not quite a standout for me. I’d absolutely recommend it to readers who enjoy scandal-driven plots and quick, dramatic romances. ⭐️⭐️⭐️¾
November 2, 2025
I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
Scandalized was such a fantastic read! I absolutely loved the characters: from Liam’s confident cockiness to Taryn’s hard-to-get attitude, they balanced each other perfectly. Their chemistry was off the charts, the kind that makes every scene between them feel charged and exciting.
What really stood out to me was how the author intertwined their romance with the mob world setting. The fact that they belonged to rival clans made their relationship a real challenge, but also gave the story an addictive, forbidden edge. You could really feel how much they wanted each other and how determined Liam was to fight for what he wanted, no matter the cost.
If I had one small note, it would be that the ending felt a little rushed and slightly open-ended. I would’ve loved just a bit more closure. Still, it leaves plenty of room for what might come next, and I truly hope there’s more of Liam and Taryn’s story ahead.
Scandalized is a gripping, passionate read full of chemistry, danger, and heart. It’s one of those stories that stays with you: bold, addictive, and impossible to put down.
Scandalized was such a fantastic read! I absolutely loved the characters: from Liam’s confident cockiness to Taryn’s hard-to-get attitude, they balanced each other perfectly. Their chemistry was off the charts, the kind that makes every scene between them feel charged and exciting.
What really stood out to me was how the author intertwined their romance with the mob world setting. The fact that they belonged to rival clans made their relationship a real challenge, but also gave the story an addictive, forbidden edge. You could really feel how much they wanted each other and how determined Liam was to fight for what he wanted, no matter the cost.
If I had one small note, it would be that the ending felt a little rushed and slightly open-ended. I would’ve loved just a bit more closure. Still, it leaves plenty of room for what might come next, and I truly hope there’s more of Liam and Taryn’s story ahead.
Scandalized is a gripping, passionate read full of chemistry, danger, and heart. It’s one of those stories that stays with you: bold, addictive, and impossible to put down.
November 26, 2025
Somehow this was even more insta-lusty than book 1. Despite Taryn wanting control over her life, I feel like we don't see her take the reins much. Even when she makes a bold choice later on in the book, it's told from Liam's POV of him reacting rather than Taryn's POV of her making that decision. I still just want a bit more character-wise from these books. They're very steamy, and that's great, but I wanted to be way more invested in who Liam and Taryn were as people, and I just didn't get there.
I'll keep going with this series because I'm pretty invested in the clan's activities and the potential future romances (I'm looking at you Steph and Elizabeth), but if you're looking for depth, this isn't where you'll find it. You will get a lot of graphic sex scenes though, so enjoy those.
TW: death, violence, sexual content, attempted kidnapping, car accident, murder, gun violence, injury detail; mentions blood, torture, sex trafficking, drugs
Plot: 3.5/5
Characters: 3/5
World Building: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Pacing: 3/5
Overall: 3/5
eARC gifted via NetGalley by Carina Press via Harlequin - Romance in exchange for an honest review.
I'll keep going with this series because I'm pretty invested in the clan's activities and the potential future romances (I'm looking at you Steph and Elizabeth), but if you're looking for depth, this isn't where you'll find it. You will get a lot of graphic sex scenes though, so enjoy those.
TW: death, violence, sexual content, attempted kidnapping, car accident, murder, gun violence, injury detail; mentions blood, torture, sex trafficking, drugs
Plot: 3.5/5
Characters: 3/5
World Building: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Pacing: 3/5
Overall: 3/5
eARC gifted via NetGalley by Carina Press via Harlequin - Romance in exchange for an honest review.
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