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Hateful Secrets
Not yet published
Expected 15 Jan 26She wants to escape her fate. But he'll never let her go.
Lucie
All my life, I've lived for others. For the family, as my father drilled into me since I was a kid. For my cousin, our don, who called on me to marry a man I didn't love to serve the Ventura name.
Now, freshly divorced at twenty, I escape to Edinburgh, determined to leave the mafia behind, and focus on myself.
But it seems that danger follows me everywhere I go. I never see his face, but I know he's here, waiting for me in the shadows. And my treacherous heart can't stop longing for the dark desires he ignites inside me.
Toma
Lucie Ventura is a beautiful liar, prentending to be wholesome and sweet. Behind the smiles and the the laughter, a beast yearns for a monster to devour her whole.
Ever since I met her while we rescued her cousin, I haven't been able to get her out of my head. She's burrowed deep into my psyche, and I never want her out.
She says she's done with mafia men. Too bad, I'm not done with her.
And I'll do anything to make her mine. Including protecting her from the horrors of my past.
Author's Hateful Secrets can be read as a stand-alone. For full enjoyment, it is recommended to read Hateful Vows first. Hateful Secrets is a stalker mafia romance on the light side of the dark romance spectrum, featuring a strong FMC and a golden retriever of a stalker who would do anything for his woman. Guaranteed HEA.
Lucie
All my life, I've lived for others. For the family, as my father drilled into me since I was a kid. For my cousin, our don, who called on me to marry a man I didn't love to serve the Ventura name.
Now, freshly divorced at twenty, I escape to Edinburgh, determined to leave the mafia behind, and focus on myself.
But it seems that danger follows me everywhere I go. I never see his face, but I know he's here, waiting for me in the shadows. And my treacherous heart can't stop longing for the dark desires he ignites inside me.
Toma
Lucie Ventura is a beautiful liar, prentending to be wholesome and sweet. Behind the smiles and the the laughter, a beast yearns for a monster to devour her whole.
Ever since I met her while we rescued her cousin, I haven't been able to get her out of my head. She's burrowed deep into my psyche, and I never want her out.
She says she's done with mafia men. Too bad, I'm not done with her.
And I'll do anything to make her mine. Including protecting her from the horrors of my past.
Author's Hateful Secrets can be read as a stand-alone. For full enjoyment, it is recommended to read Hateful Vows first. Hateful Secrets is a stalker mafia romance on the light side of the dark romance spectrum, featuring a strong FMC and a golden retriever of a stalker who would do anything for his woman. Guaranteed HEA.
- GenresDarkRomanceDark Romance
Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 15, 2026
304 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Lucci
9 books162 followersC.J. Lucci is a passionate queer storyteller who writes romance for those who want to explore their desires and reclaim their power through swoon-worthy and morally ambiguous characters.
From darkness to light, C.J. loves to offer options for readers to discover what titillate their brain, whether it’s queer romance, a new trope you didn’t even know you liked, a new kink, or a new take on mafia romance with women at the helm for once.
Having roots in Corsica, it was only natural for her to pay tribute to the Isle of Beauty through her writing. When she is not writing, she enjoys yoga, long hikes with her partner and drinking coffee.
From darkness to light, C.J. loves to offer options for readers to discover what titillate their brain, whether it’s queer romance, a new trope you didn’t even know you liked, a new kink, or a new take on mafia romance with women at the helm for once.
Having roots in Corsica, it was only natural for her to pay tribute to the Isle of Beauty through her writing. When she is not writing, she enjoys yoga, long hikes with her partner and drinking coffee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
I absolutely loved this book. After reading the first book, I came into this story already very curious about Lucie, and the author did such a wonderful job bringing her character to life. The dynamic between the characters was a highlight for me, and I really appreciated the way each of them grew individually over the course of the story. Lucie, in particular, stood out—her character was written as genuinely confident and badass, without falling into the overdone trope of the “snobby” or unnecessarily rude confident female lead. Her self-assurance felt authentic and refreshing.
Overall, this was a beautifully paced and emotionally satisfying read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Also... best part? This tiny sassy beautiful angel of a woman calls that huge bulky mountain of a man piccolo
I absolutely loved this book. After reading the first book, I came into this story already very curious about Lucie, and the author did such a wonderful job bringing her character to life. The dynamic between the characters was a highlight for me, and I really appreciated the way each of them grew individually over the course of the story. Lucie, in particular, stood out—her character was written as genuinely confident and badass, without falling into the overdone trope of the “snobby” or unnecessarily rude confident female lead. Her self-assurance felt authentic and refreshing.
Overall, this was a beautifully paced and emotionally satisfying read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Also... best part? This tiny sassy beautiful angel of a woman calls that huge bulky mountain of a man piccolo
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book review: Hateful Secrets: A Stalker Mafia Romance by C.J. Lucci is the kind of story that sneaks up on you, makes you a little uncomfortable about how much you’re enjoying it, and then dares you to stop reading.
Independently published, with a huge thank you to the author for my gifted ARC.
This book lives in that sweet spot between dark romance tension and emotional comfort. It’s a stalker mafia romance, yes, but it’s also oddly cozy, like lighting a candle while someone dangerous keeps watch outside your door. I went in expecting obsession and spice, and I got those, but what surprised me most was how character-driven and emotionally grounded the story felt. It’s intense without being overwhelming, dark without being bleak, and indulgent without losing heart.
Lucie is a plus-size mafia princess who has spent her entire life being molded into what other people need her to be. Newly divorced at twenty, she’s exhausted by obligation and desperate for autonomy. Her decision to escape to Edinburgh isn’t about rebellion, it’s about survival, and that distinction matters. She doesn’t suddenly become fearless or reckless. She’s cautious, reflective, and painfully aware of how deeply the mafia world has shaped her. Watching her learn how to choose herself, even when it’s uncomfortable or scary, was one of my favorite parts of the book. Her strength is internal, quiet, and incredibly relatable.
Then there’s Toma, who is both a walking red flag and somehow emotionally soothing. He’s masked, obsessive, and very much a stalker, but his devotion is rooted in protection rather than possession. He doesn’t want to cage Lucie, he wants to be her shield. The golden retriever stalker label fits him perfectly, because while his obsession is intense, it’s paired with patience, restraint, and an almost reverent respect for her boundaries. The virgin MMC trope mixed with his primal instincts shouldn’t work on paper, yet it adds a fascinating layer to his character and makes their chemistry crackle.
The romance unfolds slowly, built on tension, longing, and moments of emotional vulnerability rather than instant gratification. The praise, the protectiveness, and the eventual surrender between them feel earned. One line that perfectly captures the soul of this book is: “She ran from the darkness, not realizing it was already in love with her.” That sentence encapsulates Lucie and Toma’s dynamic and the tone of the story in a way that stuck with me long after I finished reading.
The pacing is well balanced, weaving together suspense, character growth, and open-door spice without dragging or feeling rushed. The mafia elements add stakes and danger, but they never overshadow the romance itself. While this book can technically be read as a standalone, having the context from the first book adds emotional weight, especially when it comes to family loyalty, expectations, and the cost of walking away from that life.
What really worked for me was that love doesn’t magically fix everything here. Both characters carry trauma, guilt, and fear, and the story allows them to be messy and imperfect while still choosing each other. The HEA feels genuinely earned, not because everything is suddenly perfect, but because they’ve built something safe and honest together.
By the end, I felt oddly comforted, a little emotional, and fully satisfied. This is the kind of romance that understands its tropes, leans into them confidently, and still finds space for tenderness and growth.
Star rating: ★★★★½ out of 5 stars.
If you enjoy mafia romance with a strong plus-size FMC, a devoted masked protector, and a story that balances obsession with emotional safety, this one deserves a spot on your Kindle.
#HatefulSecrets #CJLucci #HatefulDuet #MafiaRomance #StalkerRomance #DarkRomanceLite #PlusSizeFMC #MaskedMan #OpenDoorRomance #KindleBooks #BookReview #ARCReview #NetGalley
Independently published, with a huge thank you to the author for my gifted ARC.
This book lives in that sweet spot between dark romance tension and emotional comfort. It’s a stalker mafia romance, yes, but it’s also oddly cozy, like lighting a candle while someone dangerous keeps watch outside your door. I went in expecting obsession and spice, and I got those, but what surprised me most was how character-driven and emotionally grounded the story felt. It’s intense without being overwhelming, dark without being bleak, and indulgent without losing heart.
Lucie is a plus-size mafia princess who has spent her entire life being molded into what other people need her to be. Newly divorced at twenty, she’s exhausted by obligation and desperate for autonomy. Her decision to escape to Edinburgh isn’t about rebellion, it’s about survival, and that distinction matters. She doesn’t suddenly become fearless or reckless. She’s cautious, reflective, and painfully aware of how deeply the mafia world has shaped her. Watching her learn how to choose herself, even when it’s uncomfortable or scary, was one of my favorite parts of the book. Her strength is internal, quiet, and incredibly relatable.
Then there’s Toma, who is both a walking red flag and somehow emotionally soothing. He’s masked, obsessive, and very much a stalker, but his devotion is rooted in protection rather than possession. He doesn’t want to cage Lucie, he wants to be her shield. The golden retriever stalker label fits him perfectly, because while his obsession is intense, it’s paired with patience, restraint, and an almost reverent respect for her boundaries. The virgin MMC trope mixed with his primal instincts shouldn’t work on paper, yet it adds a fascinating layer to his character and makes their chemistry crackle.
The romance unfolds slowly, built on tension, longing, and moments of emotional vulnerability rather than instant gratification. The praise, the protectiveness, and the eventual surrender between them feel earned. One line that perfectly captures the soul of this book is: “She ran from the darkness, not realizing it was already in love with her.” That sentence encapsulates Lucie and Toma’s dynamic and the tone of the story in a way that stuck with me long after I finished reading.
The pacing is well balanced, weaving together suspense, character growth, and open-door spice without dragging or feeling rushed. The mafia elements add stakes and danger, but they never overshadow the romance itself. While this book can technically be read as a standalone, having the context from the first book adds emotional weight, especially when it comes to family loyalty, expectations, and the cost of walking away from that life.
What really worked for me was that love doesn’t magically fix everything here. Both characters carry trauma, guilt, and fear, and the story allows them to be messy and imperfect while still choosing each other. The HEA feels genuinely earned, not because everything is suddenly perfect, but because they’ve built something safe and honest together.
By the end, I felt oddly comforted, a little emotional, and fully satisfied. This is the kind of romance that understands its tropes, leans into them confidently, and still finds space for tenderness and growth.
Star rating: ★★★★½ out of 5 stars.
If you enjoy mafia romance with a strong plus-size FMC, a devoted masked protector, and a story that balances obsession with emotional safety, this one deserves a spot on your Kindle.
#HatefulSecrets #CJLucci #HatefulDuet #MafiaRomance #StalkerRomance #DarkRomanceLite #PlusSizeFMC #MaskedMan #OpenDoorRomance #KindleBooks #BookReview #ARCReview #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️ ARC Review: Hateful Secrets by C.J. Lucci ⭐️
4⭐️ | 4🌶️
Hateful Secrets took me by surprise in the best possible way. I genuinely forgot I’d signed up for this ARC, went in completely blind, and ended up on an emotional rollercoaster I wasn’t prepared for.
Although this can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend picking up the first book to fully understand the wider cast—especially the FMC’s ex‑husband, her cousin, and his wife (their story is MMF and adds so much context).
Before diving in, definitely check the trigger warnings. This book touches on sensitive subjects, and your mental health always comes first.
What truly hooked me were the main characters. Our FMC is a plus‑size queen who hides behind practiced smiles, doing everything she can to keep her family happy—even when it costs her pieces of herself. But our MMC? He sees her. Really sees her.
After choosing to leave the mafia world behind, she moves to Scotland to start fresh. What she doesn’t expect is for the MMC to follow her—because where she goes, he goes. He’s been running from his own past for six months, but as always, the past has a way of catching up.
Just when things finally seem good for them, he’s forced to make an impossible choice. Saving her means falling back into the hands of the very people who broke him. His time there shattered me, and watching him fight his way back—physically and emotionally—was heartbreaking and beautiful.
Their chemistry? Electric. Their connection? Deep. And yes…the spicy scenes absolutely delivered.
✨ Tropes & Themes
• Friends to Lovers
• Plus‑Size FMC
• Stalker
• Masked Man
• V1r1ng MMC
• Touch Her/Him and D1e
• Healing & Recovery
A gripping, emotional, spicy read that blends darkness, devotion, and healing in a way that keeps you turning pages.
4⭐️ | 4🌶️
Hateful Secrets took me by surprise in the best possible way. I genuinely forgot I’d signed up for this ARC, went in completely blind, and ended up on an emotional rollercoaster I wasn’t prepared for.
Although this can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend picking up the first book to fully understand the wider cast—especially the FMC’s ex‑husband, her cousin, and his wife (their story is MMF and adds so much context).
Before diving in, definitely check the trigger warnings. This book touches on sensitive subjects, and your mental health always comes first.
What truly hooked me were the main characters. Our FMC is a plus‑size queen who hides behind practiced smiles, doing everything she can to keep her family happy—even when it costs her pieces of herself. But our MMC? He sees her. Really sees her.
After choosing to leave the mafia world behind, she moves to Scotland to start fresh. What she doesn’t expect is for the MMC to follow her—because where she goes, he goes. He’s been running from his own past for six months, but as always, the past has a way of catching up.
Just when things finally seem good for them, he’s forced to make an impossible choice. Saving her means falling back into the hands of the very people who broke him. His time there shattered me, and watching him fight his way back—physically and emotionally—was heartbreaking and beautiful.
Their chemistry? Electric. Their connection? Deep. And yes…the spicy scenes absolutely delivered.
✨ Tropes & Themes
• Friends to Lovers
• Plus‑Size FMC
• Stalker
• Masked Man
• V1r1ng MMC
• Touch Her/Him and D1e
• Healing & Recovery
A gripping, emotional, spicy read that blends darkness, devotion, and healing in a way that keeps you turning pages.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
I received a copy of this book from the Author as an e-book. I read Hateful Vows first and while I did love it and recommend readers do, I don't think that anyone would be missing anything from not reading the first book. These are written as interconnected standalones, and the book does a good job reflecting on the events in the first book in a way that feels natural to the story while also giving some background information in case the reader skipped the first book. Also, this book explores some dark themes and the author provides a detailed list of trigger warnings at the beginning with a statement that your mental health matters.
That being said, I loved this story! I would rate this book at a strong 4.25 stars with a 3/5 for spice. It is a dark mafia romance. Lucie was a prominent character in the first book as she is the cousin of the leader of the British-Italian mob that wants to take a step back from the mafia life and get her degree in Scotland. Toma, who was also introduced in the latter half of the first book, is obsessed with her and follows her so he can protect her. Over the course of the book, we see his obsession turn into love, and they both grow as people and deal with the challenges of their past. The yearning and caring on his part is written so well while she is coming to terms with her choice of what to do with her life. I will say that there were a few times that the characters made some questionable choices, and it was more spicy heavy towards the climax of the story (pun intended), but overall I loved their story and can't wait to read more from this author!
I received a copy of this book from the Author as an e-book. I read Hateful Vows first and while I did love it and recommend readers do, I don't think that anyone would be missing anything from not reading the first book. These are written as interconnected standalones, and the book does a good job reflecting on the events in the first book in a way that feels natural to the story while also giving some background information in case the reader skipped the first book. Also, this book explores some dark themes and the author provides a detailed list of trigger warnings at the beginning with a statement that your mental health matters.
That being said, I loved this story! I would rate this book at a strong 4.25 stars with a 3/5 for spice. It is a dark mafia romance. Lucie was a prominent character in the first book as she is the cousin of the leader of the British-Italian mob that wants to take a step back from the mafia life and get her degree in Scotland. Toma, who was also introduced in the latter half of the first book, is obsessed with her and follows her so he can protect her. Over the course of the book, we see his obsession turn into love, and they both grow as people and deal with the challenges of their past. The yearning and caring on his part is written so well while she is coming to terms with her choice of what to do with her life. I will say that there were a few times that the characters made some questionable choices, and it was more spicy heavy towards the climax of the story (pun intended), but overall I loved their story and can't wait to read more from this author!
December 31, 2025
Odísť z mafie je nemožné, no dá sa to zvládnuť, ak je váš bratranec Don. V takejto situácii sa nachádza Lucie Ventura. Odíde študovať do Škótska a spolu s ňou aj jej stalker. Keď však zistí, kto je ten tajomný stalker, objavia sa skryté hrozby, o ktorých Lucie ani netušila. Odchod z mafie tak nehrozí.
Ďakujem autorke za tento ARC, nevedela som ho pustiť z ruky! Som vďačná, že posledná kniha a posledný ARC roka je 5⭐️.
Táto kniha je druhý diel Hateful Duetu, no knihy sa dajú čítať aj samostatne (odporúčam však začať knihou Hateful Vows). Verte, že sa do nej zamilujete.
Alebo minimálne do Tomu Kovača. On je dokonalý boyfriend materiál - od upratovania a nákupov až po nákup menštruačných pomôcok a adopciu čivavy. Prešiel naozaj skvelým vývojom a zaslúžil si Lucie, aj keď stále hovoril, že nie. Boli tam momenty, kedy mi ho bolo naozaj ľúto. 🥺
A to isté platí aj na Lucie. Ona bola tak ňuňu postava (likable character)! Dala sa s ňou relatívne ľahko stotožniť (obzvlášť v scénach, kde do nej rýpali preto, lebo je plus size). Išla si za svojím a aj napriek tomu, že chcela odísť z mafie, pre záchranu svojho milovaného sa vrátila.
Títo dvaja boli pre seba ako stvorení a ich príbeh vás určite chytí za srdce. Ich banter, milostné hrátky a aj „bežné“ mafia scény. Bolo to naozaj skvelé čítanie a už sa teším na ďalšie autorkine knihy.
Ďakujem autorke za tento ARC, nevedela som ho pustiť z ruky! Som vďačná, že posledná kniha a posledný ARC roka je 5⭐️.
Táto kniha je druhý diel Hateful Duetu, no knihy sa dajú čítať aj samostatne (odporúčam však začať knihou Hateful Vows). Verte, že sa do nej zamilujete.
Alebo minimálne do Tomu Kovača. On je dokonalý boyfriend materiál - od upratovania a nákupov až po nákup menštruačných pomôcok a adopciu čivavy. Prešiel naozaj skvelým vývojom a zaslúžil si Lucie, aj keď stále hovoril, že nie. Boli tam momenty, kedy mi ho bolo naozaj ľúto. 🥺
A to isté platí aj na Lucie. Ona bola tak ňuňu postava (likable character)! Dala sa s ňou relatívne ľahko stotožniť (obzvlášť v scénach, kde do nej rýpali preto, lebo je plus size). Išla si za svojím a aj napriek tomu, že chcela odísť z mafie, pre záchranu svojho milovaného sa vrátila.
Títo dvaja boli pre seba ako stvorení a ich príbeh vás určite chytí za srdce. Ich banter, milostné hrátky a aj „bežné“ mafia scény. Bolo to naozaj skvelé čítanie a už sa teším na ďalšie autorkine knihy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I Absolutely loved this book after reading the first book Hateful Vows.
You can read this book as a standalone but to get the background on Lucie I would recommend reading the first one.
I was curious about Lucie from the first book
The growth of Lucie throughout the book was amazing and she stood out in the book as a confident female lead
The book was a beautifully paced and I experienced every emotion through the book from swooning to sobbing my heart out while reading this book
Toma is a walking red flag hes masked and obsessive and but his devotion while being masked is devotion, love and care and its heart warming
The romance is a slowburn but the tension is raw and emotional and I was here for all of this
This book stood out to me, yes its a stalker romance but it has mafia aspects to the plot this doesn't take anything from the storyline.
Please check your triggers as it does cover sensitive topics throughout the book and your mental health matters.
This is my honest reveiew
Thankyou for allowing me to be an arc reader I will look forward to reading more from you.
What to expect:
🖤Friends to Lovers
🖤Plus size FMC
🖤Stalker
🖤Masked man
🖤Virgin MMC
🖤Touch Her/him and 💀
🖤Healing and Recovery
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I Absolutely loved this book after reading the first book Hateful Vows.
You can read this book as a standalone but to get the background on Lucie I would recommend reading the first one.
I was curious about Lucie from the first book
The growth of Lucie throughout the book was amazing and she stood out in the book as a confident female lead
The book was a beautifully paced and I experienced every emotion through the book from swooning to sobbing my heart out while reading this book
Toma is a walking red flag hes masked and obsessive and but his devotion while being masked is devotion, love and care and its heart warming
The romance is a slowburn but the tension is raw and emotional and I was here for all of this
This book stood out to me, yes its a stalker romance but it has mafia aspects to the plot this doesn't take anything from the storyline.
Please check your triggers as it does cover sensitive topics throughout the book and your mental health matters.
This is my honest reveiew
Thankyou for allowing me to be an arc reader I will look forward to reading more from you.
What to expect:
🖤Friends to Lovers
🖤Plus size FMC
🖤Stalker
🖤Masked man
🖤Virgin MMC
🖤Touch Her/him and 💀
🖤Healing and Recovery
January 1, 2026
Lucie grew up with a fake smile plastered on her face due to trauma and expectations. Sheltered, yet safe. Or so they thought.
Toma’s violent upbringing had him running from his family, and eventually into Lucie’s. Hoping to form an alliance strong enough to take down his brother once in for all. What he didn’t expect, was to become obsessed with her.
We first met these two in Hateful Vows, and I just knew their story was going to be quite the adventure! I loved how they each showed the other how to be open and honest with themselves. Both a product of trauma, they recognized the darkness within, and never once shied away. To be truly seen and understood is a gift only they could give each other.
Honestly, for a man that thinks he doesn’t know the meaning of love, Toma showed Lucie love in every single interaction. A cinnamon roll that could, and will, kill for her- and her alone!
The last 30% is full with trauma, redemption, and eventually healing, so definitely hold on tight and make sure to check the TW. Can’t wait to see what this world will bring us next!
Toma’s violent upbringing had him running from his family, and eventually into Lucie’s. Hoping to form an alliance strong enough to take down his brother once in for all. What he didn’t expect, was to become obsessed with her.
We first met these two in Hateful Vows, and I just knew their story was going to be quite the adventure! I loved how they each showed the other how to be open and honest with themselves. Both a product of trauma, they recognized the darkness within, and never once shied away. To be truly seen and understood is a gift only they could give each other.
Honestly, for a man that thinks he doesn’t know the meaning of love, Toma showed Lucie love in every single interaction. A cinnamon roll that could, and will, kill for her- and her alone!
The last 30% is full with trauma, redemption, and eventually healing, so definitely hold on tight and make sure to check the TW. Can’t wait to see what this world will bring us next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this book so much more than book 1. My heart broke for Toma’s past when it’s revealed. I already fell in love with him in book one and was so stoked when I realized this book was about him and Lucie. I loved how Lucie figured out who she wanted to be and found someone who truly took care of her and her needs when she needed it. Toma is such a cinnamon roll for Lucie and is so attentive and loving. He was so funny at times while stalking her but would also do the sweetest things that would make you wish he was stalking you constantly. 10/10 recommend to read but I will say check your trigger warnings first there may be some things that occur that are triggers for some. Happy reading!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Tropes: Dark romance (check TWs) | Mafia romance | Insta-love | Dual POV | Stalker | Spicy
Hateful Secret is an entertaining dark romance about Lucie and Toma. Lucie wants out of the mafia world to pursue her studies in psychology. Toma is the obsessive stalker who's enticed by Lucie and wants to protect her at all costs. I enjoyed their chemistry and characteristics, the writing was great, and the plot engaging. However, I am not the biggest fan of instant love/obsession, and the fast pacing was too quick for my liking. Nevertheless, it was a great read and perfect for any avid reader looking for a fast-paced, dark romance with a extremely obsessive main character.
Tropes: Dark romance (check TWs) | Mafia romance | Insta-love | Dual POV | Stalker | Spicy
Hateful Secret is an entertaining dark romance about Lucie and Toma. Lucie wants out of the mafia world to pursue her studies in psychology. Toma is the obsessive stalker who's enticed by Lucie and wants to protect her at all costs. I enjoyed their chemistry and characteristics, the writing was great, and the plot engaging. However, I am not the biggest fan of instant love/obsession, and the fast pacing was too quick for my liking. Nevertheless, it was a great read and perfect for any avid reader looking for a fast-paced, dark romance with a extremely obsessive main character.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review:
Tropes:
Stalker Mafia Romance
Strong FMC
Protective/Possessive MMC
Lucie’s journey—from dutiful daughter and unwilling bride to a woman choosing herself—felt authentic and empowering. Even as she tries to leave the mafia behind, the tension never lets up, creating a constant sense of unease and anticipation.
Toma is the kind of MMC who knows he’s dangerous but channels it into protection rather than destruction. His devotion to Lucie is unwavering, and their connection simmers with intensity. This story proves you can have a stalker romance that feels romantic, not unsettling, while still delivering suspense and passion.
Huge thanks to the author for this ARC!
Tropes:
Stalker Mafia Romance
Strong FMC
Protective/Possessive MMC
Lucie’s journey—from dutiful daughter and unwilling bride to a woman choosing herself—felt authentic and empowering. Even as she tries to leave the mafia behind, the tension never lets up, creating a constant sense of unease and anticipation.
Toma is the kind of MMC who knows he’s dangerous but channels it into protection rather than destruction. His devotion to Lucie is unwavering, and their connection simmers with intensity. This story proves you can have a stalker romance that feels romantic, not unsettling, while still delivering suspense and passion.
Huge thanks to the author for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I fell in love with Lucie and Toma. Their dynamic and bond is so special and now, I don't know what to do with my life that I have finished this novel. The story was so beautifully written and what happens in it was honestly gut wrenching. It made me feel like butterflies. It made me cry both happiness and sadness. Though this might be a hot take but im mad at Dante, Irina and Aleksei. There i said it, Lucie deserves better in terms of everything and the only person who saw that was Toma. Let me warn you lovelies that if you want to read this book grab a box of tissues. So without further ado, go preorder it and read it 🥹
December 30, 2025
This book was amazing to read . I completed it in 1 day as I could not put it down. Lucie the FMC is a mafia daughter who wants to get out of the lifestyle Toma MMC who is stalking Lucie to protect her from his brother known as The Butcher. I loved that there was translations of words provided by the author. Thank you C.J Lucci for allowing me to have a chance to be an advanced reader for your book. I can not wait to see if there is more of Lucie and Toma. Spice level is just right and also read your trigger warnings.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am not usually a stalker romance girly but this one was done to perfection! Lucie and Toma are beautiful together and adding an adorable dog named Biscuit even better!
I loved that the characters from the first book were intermingled in the second. I am a lover of all things mafia and ate this book up in one sitting. Petar can rot that’s what I have to say!
Highly recommend this book to any stalker or mafia romance lovers.
I loved that the characters from the first book were intermingled in the second. I am a lover of all things mafia and ate this book up in one sitting. Petar can rot that’s what I have to say!
Highly recommend this book to any stalker or mafia romance lovers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A maffia stalker romance with plenty of spice? Sign me up.
This book did not disappoint. The story was dark, but somehow also sweet.
The spice was spicing and the FMC choosing herself: I love that!
The MMC is a "golden retriever stalker" and it was a nice change from other stalker books I've read. I liked him!
If you like dark mafia romance books, with a masked stalker, pls-sized FMC and spice: Go read this book!
This book did not disappoint. The story was dark, but somehow also sweet.
The spice was spicing and the FMC choosing herself: I love that!
The MMC is a "golden retriever stalker" and it was a nice change from other stalker books I've read. I liked him!
If you like dark mafia romance books, with a masked stalker, pls-sized FMC and spice: Go read this book!
December 31, 2025
We love a man dedicated to his woman…who’s not his woman…but is his woman lol. Hateful Secrets had it all. Forced proximity, forbidden (but he doesn’t care), stalker vibes, touch her and 💀, and even a virgin MMC that isn’t so virgin mentally.
The dynamic between Toma and Lucie was 🥵! Shes very confident and he’s obsessed. Eyes for her and her only. Please check your trigger warning as there is some on page assault.
The dynamic between Toma and Lucie was 🥵! Shes very confident and he’s obsessed. Eyes for her and her only. Please check your trigger warning as there is some on page assault.
January 1, 2026
This book was a perfect mix of spice, romance, drama and humour. The characters were very well written and came fully to life. I like the storyline but sometimes I had the feeling things were cut out that could make the story more real. But it was not in a way it was annoying so overall I really liked this book and enjoyed reading it. The way it was written also made want to read it in one reading session.
December 30, 2025
CJ Lucci has such a way of writing such an epic story in so few words. I've loved all the works I've read and Hateful Secrets is no exception. Having the MMC go through a traumatic experience in a book, and his recovery is not the norm in this genre, and she handles it so well. Loved this couple; ate this book up in a couple of hours.
December 30, 2025
Book review of book 2: FMC Lucie is hell bent to be free from the mafia life she grow up in. MMC Tomas has always silently proctored Lucie. Stalking, tracking. Obsessed with Lucie. Tomas brother threats her life to get his one brother back. Love the story line and how it ties book one with it. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ on spicy level. Thank you CJ Lucci for the story. Looking forward to book 3
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the first book I have read of C.J. Lucci. I received an ARC email about this book yesterday and figured I would give it a try. Really enjoyed this book. Was a quick read for me but really enjoyed these characters and twists/turns this story takes. Looking forward to reading more books from this author.
Read
December 31, 2025This book definitely had elements that I enjoyed. I think if you are looking for a quick mafia read then this could scratch the itch.
Toma is completely and utterly devoted to Lucie. This manifests in some slight stalking (and stocking of her fridge lol). He watches over her as she attempts to leave mafia life behind. Unfortunately, she becomes a target to his past.
Toma is completely and utterly devoted to Lucie. This manifests in some slight stalking (and stocking of her fridge lol). He watches over her as she attempts to leave mafia life behind. Unfortunately, she becomes a target to his past.
December 31, 2025
I didn’t read book one in the duet and didn’t feel like it took me too much time to get up to speed.
While this is a mafia style book, it’s softer on mafia themes. We hear a bit about our FMCs mafia up bringing but most is left to the imagination.
I love a good masked man mystery and the tension between our FMC and MMC is swoon worthy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
❤️🔥❤️🔥
While this is a mafia style book, it’s softer on mafia themes. We hear a bit about our FMCs mafia up bringing but most is left to the imagination.
I love a good masked man mystery and the tension between our FMC and MMC is swoon worthy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
❤️🔥❤️🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
This author is becoming one of my favourite authors to read. The way she writes badass FMCs and doting Mafia men is hot as hell. The spice in this book was delicious. Toma is heartbreakingly beautiful inside and out. The way he empowers his woman is awesome.
December 31, 2025
This book is so dark romance coded and I love it! Mafia romance book where the men yearn is everything especially when he makes it known he’s obsessed with her. The book is so good and will keep you on your toes the whole time.
January 1, 2026
Lucie & Toma with their dark pasts coming together 🥵. But at the same time Tomas needs to be held close & protected from this world! 🥹. Was hooked every step of the way. An amazing ending. All the feels were felt with this one.
January 1, 2026
Devoured this. Such a fun read. Toma is one of my new favorite book boyfriends I absolutely love a man who is absolutely obsessed.
“What is it called when you’re scared but horny?”
“You chase me through the woods. You caught me. Now. Take. Me. “ ☠️
“What is it called when you’re scared but horny?”
“You chase me through the woods. You caught me. Now. Take. Me. “ ☠️
January 2, 2026
Not me crying because of the epilogue 🥹
I loved Lucie in Hateful vows and couldn’t wait for her book, and damn I was not disappointed !!!
I devoured it! This book was everything I needed and more !!!
I recommend it 100%
Biscuit stole my heart ❤️
I loved Lucie in Hateful vows and couldn’t wait for her book, and damn I was not disappointed !!!
I devoured it! This book was everything I needed and more !!!
I recommend it 100%
Biscuit stole my heart ❤️
Currently reading
September 30, 2025Pre-read September 2025: giddy is a freaking understatement for how excited I am for Lucie’s book, omgg!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got this as a arc and it was everything and more I love this book
December 31, 2025
Mafia romance excellence! I found the characters and plot super compelling. I enjoyed how fast-paced it was and I just will always love a man who obsessively yearns.
Review of advance copy received from Author
really Good! super dark and stalkery!
❗️❗️❗️❗️MAKE SURE YOU CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS!!!!❗️❗️❗️❗️
❗️❗️❗️❗️MAKE SURE YOU CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS!!!!❗️❗️❗️❗️
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