Devious Truth

Vicious Sinners #3

by Measha Stone

She’s my obsession—and I'll destroy anything that stands between us.

Vivienne Frost is a waitress in my club. She's smart-mouthed, breathtaking, and entirely off-limits.

She thinks she can outrun her past, serve drinks, and keep her secrets buried. But I've seen the bruises and listened to her lies. Her willful resistance awakens a brutal kind of need in me—one that chips away at the control I’ve spent years perfecting.

The deeper I dig, the darker her past gets—blackmail, a missing ring, and a ghost from the Irish mob who wants her back. She’s scared, stubborn, and drowning in pain she won’t explain.

She thinks she can handle this alone.

She’s wrong.

And I’ll burn down anyone who tries to take her from me.

Genres: Workplace

293 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 25, 2025

Reviews

[Kate V · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars!

I’m enjoying this series. If you’re a fan of Zoe Blake, you’ll love this as well. Spicy and fun. The hero is a bulldozing alpha male and the heroine is as strong as she can be until he whips out his hand. Or his dick. Or his belt. Ya know the plot if you’ve read these types of stories. Not that I’m complaining!

Ivan was yummy and dominant. Viv was…well…submissive for Ivan and made some dumbass decisions. But to be fair she’s got a lot of really sad baggage. Ivan worked really hard to make her feel safe and I loved that.

“There’s a part of you that you’ve shut off. You’ve put a big wall around yourself, and I’m going to tear it down.”

That he did.

I was annoyed that it had to be Viv at the end that made the first step to reconciliation because let’s be honest it was all Ivan’s fault. Jackass. But whatever. It ended in such a lovely way.

[Savanna Golden · Rating 3 out of 5]

I never understand when super broke women get with the millionaires/billionaires and then put up a fight anytime they want to spend their money on them. Like girl get that bag. 💰

[Kelly_Reads_Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am really enjoying these Volkov stories and Ivan and Vee’s story was so enjoyable to read.
This couple have been dancing around each other with intensity on Ivan’s part and fear on Vee’s part but it is a sensual dance.
Ver comes with a lot of baggage and Ivan is demanding and dominating and as much as Vee tries to deny him she can’t help but to be drawn in to his life.
Fabulous story with wonderful characters ❤️

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fantastic story from Measha. I am running through this series because I just have to see what is next in the lives of the Vicious Sinners. Love the longing and waiting and wanting that is the crux of this story. The men are all alpha but are totally gaga over the women and it is such a feel good book. Oh yeah, Ivan, bless his heart is totally enamored and I enjoyed every single minute of reading. I do need some grit to the story and good gracious Vee has grit and heartache. Now onto the next story.

[Joy Westerfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a story! I love this series so much and was so glad it was Ivan and Vivienne’s story! Ivan has always known that he wanted Vivienne, he just needed to convince her. She’s had it rough and some horrible things have happened to her so she’s in no way looking for a relationship. Even though she does have a major crush on Ivan, she refuses to give into his charms. Ivan is all alpha, rough and gruff and oh so delicious. This story takes you on their tumultuous journey into a possible relationship. Quite a bit goes on in this story that will make your head spin, your heart hurt and maybe needs few tissues. I loved everything about Ivan and Vivienne and rooted for them throughout. A definite must read for all!

[Shelly Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Vicious Sinners series and Ivan and Vivienne's book. I liked the book but didn't love it. I gave it sometime before I wrote the review to figure out why. This is my opinion and I'm not one to immediately give a writer five stars. They have to earn it, and this author normally does. I figured out the reason (no it's not the author or her story), it's the characters of Ivan and Vivienne. They just aren't a couple in love. More lust that may turn into love. More a Dom/Sub relationship than that of Mira/Rurik or Gregor/Hannah or many others I can name.

Ivan is more an egotistical Dom who doesn't feel he needs to explain. He tells Vivienne and demands her submission but rarely explains or shows warmth except when she wants a few minutes of cuddling afterwards. He quickly points out to others their faults as he does with Kaz and Artem. His sister finally gets through to him a bit, but she has to literally yell at him to make him see he may be part of the problem. Vivienne isn't the strong female character that were used to seeing from this author. Mainly because Ivan wouldn't accept it in a female. He seems wary of them and not sure how to interact - his sister-in-law, Maxine, and his sister. Vivienne tries at times to voice her opinion and advocate but is quickly silenced or deflected by Ivan. There's the girlfriend of the soldier, the marriage, the friend she tried to save but the reader knows she's going to drop it quickly. She tends to do rather stupid stuff - helps out a person banned from the club which causes a lackluster explosion with Ivan. She's perfect for Ivan but she fades into the background around the stronger females.

That being said, the book was good but took a bit longer to get into for me because of the female character. Ivan was at times an overbearing pompous you know what as well. There were a few things that seemed to have promise but weren't really followed through - Vivienne mad because Ivan didn't say he loved her, but I don't remember her saying it to him, the ring, the Irish characters, etc. I will say Max and Lev's book needs to be out yesterday because I'm excited about it. All in all, this is a different dynamic within a family dynamic, and it needed to be written. It's not going to be the same as her other books, but you can't expect that. The author wrote the storyline the characters called for. Ivan has always been that way - yes even in Alexander's book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rhonda Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Devious Truth' is the powerful third installment in Measha Stone's "Vicious Sinners" series, focusing on the intense connection between Ivan Volkov and Vivienne Frost, a dedicated server at the club. Ivan, the formidable manager overseeing operations, has long been captivated by Vivienne. However, she hesitates to date "The Boss," despite her friends pushing her to explore the undeniable chemistry between them.

Vivienne is determined to reclaim her life, tackling funeral costs from a car accident that took the lives of her husband and unborn child, and overwhelming credit card debt. After an accident at work, Ivan steps up his involvement in her life, but their complicated history takes a dark turn when a man associated with her deceased husband shows up at the club, seeking access to a high-stakes poker game. Vivienne grants him entry, but she is acutely aware that this connection threatens to drag her past back into her present.

Can Ivan break through Vivienne's defensive walls and the mistrust that plagues her? This gripping tale will keep you on the edge of your seat as both characters face their intense attraction and the obstacles that stand in their way. Ivan is done being patient. He knows he must protect her and is ready to fight for what they could have together.

Both characters must confront their demons before they can fully embrace their relationship, especially Vivienne's trust issues and history. When Vivienne finally acknowledges her feelings for Ivan, it may come at a critical moment. The depth of Vivienne's inner dialogue adds a compelling layer to her decision-making, making you invested in her journey.

[Tina Thompson · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5* Didn’t like Ivan, wasn’t keen on Vee, didn’t like her having to ask him to get in the shower!

I’m not actually sure who was more annoying in this one. Ivan for pursuing Vee demanding her trust then he lets her down later on, or Vee for saying over and over again, “ It’s none of your business, I work for you.” Every single time he took an interest in her, she said that. It was so annoying!!! The plot again was non existent apart from them having endless s*x. I really didn’t like Vee having to call him sir all the time. I’m not a fan of women having to crawl to the men, and beg them for things while calling them sir, so this one annoyed me. At one point she had to ask him permission to get in the shower! Yuk! No! Not for me, sorry.

There’s way too many mistakes. They’re supposed to be Bratva yet NONE of the brothers have guards, so of course one of them is injured. With all their enemies and the war they are fighting with the Italians and they haven’t got guards is stupid!! Their sister Elena is sneaking around and has obviously got a boyfriend who she shouldn’t have, yet none of the brothers have clicked who it is. Why isn’t the sister guarded as well as the other women are?? Meghan was mentioned in this book but Mari wasn’t. Where is she?

Didn’t enjoy it at all.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vivienne Frost is making it work. She has been working for the Volkov in Obsidian and make pretty good money. She is swamped in debt from bills from her past. When someone from the past steps back into her life, she wants to run. But Ivan sees everything. Ivan has wanted Vee since he first saw her a year ago. She has strength but he knows something isn’t right. He will find out and fix it. No one touches what’s his. We do get a roll back from what happened in “Devious Madness.” POVs from Vee and Ivan. So that fills in the gaps. I do love that Vee is a strong want. She gives just as much as Mira does. With Kiernan from her past lurking, he is nothing but trouble. And is Declan really looking for her? Ivan is no softy but when it comes to her, he would do anything. He sees through her lies and makes her aware that he isn’t about to let her drown. I do love these two. And when you find out about her past, grab tissue. Her neighbor Maxine is a trip. She defiantly has Lev Yakovley turning his head. Looking forward to their story. And what is going on with Elana? Something happens to Kaz that shocked me. I am looking forward to the back story on that. And the cliffhanger tells you whose story is next.

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

[Hanan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed the past two books in the Vicious Sinners series.
But this one is my favorite. Plot wise, characters and storyline.
I just loved Vivienne and Ivan. Seeing Ivan and Vee in the previous books dancing around each other.
I knew their story was going to be intriguing.
The dynamics and energy between these two strong and determined characters was intense.
Both Ivan and Vee are headstrong and stubborn. Neither willing to back down.
He wants to wrap her in bubble wrap and keep her safe. She wants to work and be left alone.
But he isn’t having it. And will dish out punishment Ivan style. 😉
Their physical attraction to each other is something both cannot deny.
The chemistry between them is freaking sizzling hot! So much spice and steam.
I also appreciated the bond that starts forming between them.
The trust that states building. And the faith that starts filling the cracks.
The emotional aspects of the story were sad and heartbreaking.
And it brought me joy in how Ivan handled it. Exactly what Vee needed.
And of course all the suspense, drama and intrigue that comes with being a Volkov.
**4.5 stars**

[Marlene Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in Vicious Sinners Series and is about Ivan Volkov and server at the Club, Vivienne Frost. Ivan is in charge of club operations and has been interested in Viv for quite some time.. but Vivienne wary of dating "The Boss" despite being egged on by friends who work with her. She is quietly trying to turn her wrecked life around, paying off funerals, wrecked car and maxed out credit cards. When she has accident at work, Ivan inserts himself more fully into her life...but her past catching up as man who used to work with her deceased husband shows up at club and wants invitation to high-stakes poker game. Vivienne grants him access...but is scared that this means her past which she left five-hundred miles back is catching her, but can Ivan thaw out a woman who has been jaded by what she's had to deal with??? You will need to read this compelling story to see what happens...I voluntarily read this book through an Advanced Reader Copy.

[Louise Car · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book by Ms. Stone packed a punch. It's a gritty, steamy Mafia-themed tale filled with danger, drama, blackmail, and brutality, but it also has hope. I admire how the author maintains the same intensity with Vee and Ivan’s story as with the two previous books in this series. This book was intoxicating, and it kept me glued to the pages. The plot was interesting, and the characters were fully developed and relatable. I loved Vee and Ivan’s story because it was heartbreaking and heartwarming.

I admired them equally for their unique qualities. Vee was so strong despite the trauma she suffered; yet she came out fighting, not willing to give up. But it was a battle, and at times, she couldn't see the light at the end of the tunnel. Enter Ivan Volkov, her boss at the Obsidian Club. He was drawn to Vee like a moth to a flame. Initially, Vee tried to keep her distance, but Ivan peeled back her layers one by one and took control.

Ivan was dominant to his core and demanded Vee’s submission, which didn't come naturally. Vee came to crave Ivan as he made her feel safe. I admired his commanding nature without being over the top and claiming Vee without humiliating her. He was dark and menacing in the best possible way. He knew when to take control and when to be tender.

This book checked all the right boxes for me. It was spicy, with elements of BDSM and delicious spanking scenes. Vee’s increasing confidence and emotional growth were the book's beauty, but Ivan’s protectiveness was not far behind. Bring on the next book in this page-turning series.

[Karon Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting for this story since Viviene and Ivan were first introduced. They're both wildly attracted to each other but Viviene won't go there. She has way too much to deal with; her debt, her past, her rule of never dating someone she works with. But Ivan is done waiting. He's given her time, but he's OTT protective and he's needs to ensure her safety. These two had a lot to get through before they can be together. Especially Viviene's history and inability to trust. When she finally decides to let him know how she feels, it may be too late. I loved how Viviene's inner dialogue gave us great insight into her decision making. And Ivan, yummy! Why do I have no problem with a mafia guy wanting to do whatever I need, protecting me to the point of killing. Yes please! Great HEA for these two.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ivan’s turmoil over Vivienne finally comes to light!
The hints of Ivan’s obsession with Vivienne in prior books in the series, wet my appetite for their full blown story and Measha does not disappoint! Vee may be running from her past and not wanting anything to do with a relationship, but an unexpected encounter from her past at Obsidian brings it all to a head. When Ivan discovers the state of Vivienne’s debt, he offers her a deal to make some extra money to accompany him to a gala, in a “Pretty Woman” theme. Yet the gala has a surprise that has Ivan taking Vee home with him. The heat between the two is off the charts, and Vee struggles to keep Ivan at arms length. Will Vee’s action to save a friend bring her time with Ivan to a halt? You have to read to find out and don’t expect to put the book down until you turn the last page!

[Erika A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally! Finally Ivan pushes his way through to Vee. Who could have guessed the horrific past Vee has endured. So you can understand her being closed off. Thank goodness Ivan is beyond stubborn and dominant. It’s the only way through her walls. And persistence. They have amazing chemistry. So it’s not lack of attraction being a problem. It’s just the past. And the past has a way of coming back to haunt your future. A future that almost wasn’t. You can only push people so far before they reach their limit. Even the most determined have a breaking point. It took some pain and heartbreak but sometimes that’s the only way through….. Now I’ll not so patiently wait for the next book. This one looks to be a bumpy ride!

[paintedlady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Several years ago, Vivienne was blessed with a loving husband and was pregnant with a precious son. Unfortunately, she lost them both. Now Vivienne works as a waitress at an elite members only exclusive club called Obsidian. One of the owners, Ivan, has become protective and obsessed by her. He is strong, powerful and determined to make her his.

If her past has been filled with pain and loss, how willing will a woman be to accept love and protection today? Will Ivan find a way to capture Vivienne’s heart and soul? Will Vee learn to accept Ivan’s dangerous mafia responsibilities? What will it take for these two differing individuals to find a way into each other’s hearts?

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want a Volkov brother, they may be mafia but they are amazing boyfriends and husbands and who doesn’t want to be worshipped. There were some emotional moments in this story that brought tears to my eyes and some that made me laugh. The storyline is interesting and there is a lot of push and pull between Ivan and Vivienne as well as an undeniable physical attraction that is scorchingly hot. The mystery of the ring is behind many of Vee’s actions and is the root of much of what happens. A fast paced captivating story that I loved.

[Jo-Ann Forrest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Viviene and Ivan’s story. She is aloof, hiding from her past and what happened. Ivan has been smitten by her from the first day she was hired at Obsidian. Viv doesn’t trust easily and Ivan has quite a job to bring down her walls. With everything that happened to her in her past, can she open herself to be happy again and stop struggling? Intense chemistry between them amd when Viv reluctantly accepts what it entitles she will open the door to a brand new life. Enthralling story that will keep you riveted to your seat.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vivienne/Viv is a server at Obsidian, where Ivan Volkov is in charge of club operations. He's had feelings for her for a while now, but after everything she's been through, she's not ready for a relationship. But Ivan doesn't give up that easily. When Vivienne's past comes back to cause problems, Ivan goes into protective mode. This is a Mafia romance with strong characters, a page turning storyline, and a great ending. Devious Truth is book three in the Viscous Sinners series, and I can't wait to read the next book.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ohh I’m loving the Volkov brothers! They are OTT possessive and demanding. This was Ivan’s and Vees story. Vee had a rough back story and she was slow to want to love again, but it all made total sense. I loved the change once Ivan claimed her. A perfect mix of steam, drama and angst. I’d highly recommend if you enjoy mafia type romance. You’ll certainly want to claim a Volkov for yourself!

[Book-Lovin-Momma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vivienne and Ivan finally get their book with Devious Truth. I love that strong, silent alpha type, and Ivan is all that and more, although at times, I did wish he showed a little more warmth. He was definitely a stone cold character! Still, there's no denying his deep feelings for Vee, who's been trying to escape her past, and he wants to keep her safe in typical Volkov fashion! Spicy, kinky and a smokin' hot romance read!

[Zelda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Vicious Sinners series. We’ve met Ivan Volkov in previous books—he’s the scary guy in Obsidian who watches his employee Vivienne. Vivienne’s lost her trust in men and Ivan is the OTT man determined to protect & care for her. Ivan is so dominant that Vee’s character would occasionally get lost. It’s a long & dangerous road and Ivan’s lessons are painfully healing. The Volkovs are a favourite family.

[Rhonda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vivienne really likes Ivan but with her past, she won't give in to a man again. Ivan is obsessed with her and wants to get closer but she holds him at arms length. This story hits the ground running and doesn't stop until the last page. Both are strong characters and with everything going on, they needed to be. Her past comes back to her and Ivan is determined to not let anyone or anything get her. Will he be able to?

[RoyalPlaty · Rating 3 out of 5]

Average to Good Read

3.5 stars

I would have rated higher but I felt the ending felt rush, unfinished, and slightly unsatisfying. I needed more time with the main character's regrouping after their issue and FMC processing through her feelings and feeling secure.


Side note if the author were to ever see this. All of the D names can get confusing. It had me at times picture someone else already mentioned and it caused some confusion and disjointed reading

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the Volkov brothers and was so happy to have Ivan and Vee's story. Ivan is not quite sure how to frame his relationship with Vee, and it gives a feel of an on again/off again relationship until he finally lets his feelings show. Vee is much more reserved and uncertain about letting go and letting him in. Their road to HEA is bumpy but worth it. Glad there will be more to this series.

[Kirsten Pardini · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is amazing! I’m pretty obsessed with measha’s stories today begin with but this one this series is a great representation of her work. Vivianne started out as a mystery Ivan wanted to understand and turned into his forever. With some intense mafia drama thrown in! Must read!

[Alice · Rating 5 out of 5]

fabulous

This book is Ivan and Vee’s story.
Very well written. Very intense, sexy, interesting and HOT!
Throughly enjoyed this latest addition to the Volkov Bravata brothers!
Looking forward to Lev and Maxine’s story.

[Lisa Varn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love, love, love Ivan. Measha Stone knocked this out of the park.

[Kaye Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been throughly enjoying the Vicious Sinners series and enjoying the intense steamy chemistry between Ivan and Vivienne through the first two books and for me their story has been highly anticipated.
Viv has been battling her past for what seems like forever but when it comes back to haunt her and when Ivan offers her a deal she couldn’t refuse, their relationship intensifies…with twists and betrayal threatening their future, this for me was a good read and I can’t wt to read the next book in the series…

[Madeleine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vicious Sinners #3 and I just can't get enough of the Volkov brothers. Mafia, mystery, drama, adventure, addictive and beautiful storyline.