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Kings & Queens Will Rise #1
His Pretty Little Lies
Filthy rich. King of Golden Prep. Liar. Stalker… A Marino
The Marino name stretches past the walls of Golden Prep and even the city. It was a last name I was proud to have. Until I saw the fear it put into her eyes.
Kinsley Blake is intelligent, quiet, reserved, and endearingly clumsy. Most of all, she's hellbent on avoiding me. Too bad for her; while she was studying hard for her future after Golden Prep, I spent those years studying her. Learning every single detail I could.
Now it's time to put all that knowledge to use. I don't care what rules or codes I have to break. Even if they're my own family’s, and I'll use the skills they taught me to do it.
It's time to set a trap for my bunny, and I know just the bait to get her to come out and play. I might have to lie and deceive to do it, but in the end, it will be worth it. By the time she discovers who the true predator is, it will be too late for her to get out of the trap I put in place.
I thought I had it all figured out. What I didn't account for was how being so close to her would have me sinking further into my obsession with her. So much so that she’s become my very reason for breathing. My thoughts have turned far from rational when it comes to her being mine.
When people start to take notice, they think they can take her from me or use her as a tool against me. Little do they know how unhinged I’ve become. I’ll burn down this entire world to bring her back, consuming everything around me, the same way she’s consumed all of me.
This is the first book in a brand new series. No cheating, no OW drama, and an HEA is always guaranteed! Each will be standalone.
It features a possessive alpha male, heavy stalking, obsession, steamy scenes, a witty heroine, and a criminal empire.
The Marino name stretches past the walls of Golden Prep and even the city. It was a last name I was proud to have. Until I saw the fear it put into her eyes.
Kinsley Blake is intelligent, quiet, reserved, and endearingly clumsy. Most of all, she's hellbent on avoiding me. Too bad for her; while she was studying hard for her future after Golden Prep, I spent those years studying her. Learning every single detail I could.
Now it's time to put all that knowledge to use. I don't care what rules or codes I have to break. Even if they're my own family’s, and I'll use the skills they taught me to do it.
It's time to set a trap for my bunny, and I know just the bait to get her to come out and play. I might have to lie and deceive to do it, but in the end, it will be worth it. By the time she discovers who the true predator is, it will be too late for her to get out of the trap I put in place.
I thought I had it all figured out. What I didn't account for was how being so close to her would have me sinking further into my obsession with her. So much so that she’s become my very reason for breathing. My thoughts have turned far from rational when it comes to her being mine.
When people start to take notice, they think they can take her from me or use her as a tool against me. Little do they know how unhinged I’ve become. I’ll burn down this entire world to bring her back, consuming everything around me, the same way she’s consumed all of me.
This is the first book in a brand new series. No cheating, no OW drama, and an HEA is always guaranteed! Each will be standalone.
It features a possessive alpha male, heavy stalking, obsession, steamy scenes, a witty heroine, and a criminal empire.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 6, 2025
477 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
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February 16, 2026
The king of Golden Prep, Jax Marino, has bided his time and refuses to wait another moment to claim the object of his fascination, Kinsley Blake.
Let’s get right to it… Jax is a next-level obsessed stalker. Y’all know that’s my kryptonite. I saw “stalker” and clickety click clicked. The problem: the book should have a warning label that there is NO spice to be found. I’m in my smut era and the juxtaposition of possessive and obsessive x stalker typically = spice. If there had been some, this might well have been a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥1/2
Darkness: 🩶
Heat: 🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🤔😊😳🫠😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Suspense, Young Adult
✨ Tropes: Bad Boy x Good Girl, Billionaire, Forced Proximity, Found Family, Heroine in Danger, Mafia/Bratva/Organized Crime, Stalker
💫 Microtropes: Boy Obsessed, Caretaker MMC, Coming of Age, It’s Always Been You, Jersey Moment, Pet Name, Virgin MMC/FMC
🔆 Character: Athlete
💋 Kinks: n/a
🤰🏻 Pregnancy: Epilogue
🚩 Red Flags: Jealous/Possessive/Obsessive, Manipulation, MINE!, OTT Hero, Touch-Her-and-💀, Tracking/Spying
⛔️ Safety Squad: Kidnapping/Captive (Not by MMC), OW Drama (Mild, One Sided), Recreational Drug Use (Not by MC’s), Unaliving, Violence, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📍 Setting: Academy
⚠️ Warning: The angst in this slow-burn will edge you to the point of combustion!
📣 Type: His Pretty Little Lies is the first book in the Kings & Queens Will Rise series interconnected standalones.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
Let’s get right to it… Jax is a next-level obsessed stalker. Y’all know that’s my kryptonite. I saw “stalker” and clickety click clicked. The problem: the book should have a warning label that there is NO spice to be found. I’m in my smut era and the juxtaposition of possessive and obsessive x stalker typically = spice. If there had been some, this might well have been a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥1/2
Darkness: 🩶
Heat: 🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🤔😊😳🫠😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Suspense, Young Adult
✨ Tropes: Bad Boy x Good Girl, Billionaire, Forced Proximity, Found Family, Heroine in Danger, Mafia/Bratva/Organized Crime, Stalker
💫 Microtropes: Boy Obsessed, Caretaker MMC, Coming of Age, It’s Always Been You, Jersey Moment, Pet Name, Virgin MMC/FMC
🔆 Character: Athlete
💋 Kinks: n/a
🤰🏻 Pregnancy: Epilogue
🚩 Red Flags: Jealous/Possessive/Obsessive, Manipulation, MINE!, OTT Hero, Touch-Her-and-💀, Tracking/Spying
⛔️ Safety Squad: Kidnapping/Captive (Not by MMC), OW Drama (Mild, One Sided), Recreational Drug Use (Not by MC’s), Unaliving, Violence, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📍 Setting: Academy
⚠️ Warning: The angst in this slow-burn will edge you to the point of combustion!
📣 Type: His Pretty Little Lies is the first book in the Kings & Queens Will Rise series interconnected standalones.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
November 7, 2025
I see Lucy Darling drop a new book, and I drop everything I am doing to voraciously devour it!
DUAL VIRGINS! They are each others first and only everything! *booty shake! happy dance!*
Quote(his status)
“You feel so good.” She rocks her pussy up and down my cock. I’m about to make her feel a whole lot better.
I may have never done this before, but I’m a quick study, and I’m not naïve. I also have a fuck ton of fantasies of her built up in my mind from over the years. There is no telling how many times I fucked my own hand thinking about it being her pussy while she moaned my name.
end quote.
Quote, (his and her status)
She focuses her attention back on my cock, watching herself stroke me. She leans down, her mouth a hair's breadth away from the tip. Her little pink tongue comes out to lick the wetness from it. My hips buck, wanting more.
“I’ve never done this before. So I don’t really know what I’m doing,” she whispers.
I’m about to tell her there is nothing she could do wrong and that I’ve never done this before either, but before I can utter a word, she wraps her warm lips around the head and takes my cock fully into her mouth.
end quote
Safe
No cheating
No OM
Unwanted OW (a girl high as a kite tried to get his attention at a party, but when she placed her hand on his chest he swatted it away making her fall and just walked over her)
No OM/OW comparisons
No separation (they knew of each other for 2 or 3 years attending the same high school and he was watching her from afar never far from her, but this is their senior year when our hero decides to go claim our heroine!)
No gross condom use
No stupid third act break up
High school romance, some mystery, there is little angst, but the drama is offset well with the romance
HEA
This is the story of the second generation of the Marino family. Jax, is attending Golden Prep high with Kinsley. Jax is Cosima and Z's son, so he is a true Marino when it comes to finding the one and being completely obsessed with her. Jax is intense, patient, laser focused, attentive, dangerous to anyone dare approaching his bunny and incredibly romantic. He was in love with Kinsley for almost 3 years, but decides to now go after her and claim her as his own, after all she has his heart in her hands for that long, and didn't even know it.
Kinsley is snoopy, loves gossip, isn't paid attention to by her parents making her feel unwanted and she is cautious that this handsome kid at school wants to be with her all of a sudden. She is a bit skittish, but her vulnerability makes her likeable. She has had a crush on Jax, but never thought he would go for an "ordinary girl", as she describes herself. Little does she know that to him, she is a the most beautiful girl he has ever seen and all his!
Their interaction was sweet with a little hint of dangerous emanating from our young mafioso but he is nothing but sweet to her. He does take from his father and I am happy we got to see Z and Cosima again, with more of the family. I have to say that one cousin Naomi in particular was very interesting. Another character who will have her own story with Jax's older brother Eros, is Blair. She is Kinsley's friend and is a goth girl. She is assertive and I cannot wait to see her story with Eros.
Jax and Kinsley's love story is entangled in a mystery, with them trying to solve it, and of course many sequences of events unfold, and many moments made me gasp in pleasant surprise. He tried to teach her a lesson about being cautious, but it backfired and they landed themselves into some hot water which then had them, his other brother attending the school (hoping he also has a story) trying to solve it along with Blair and more of the Marino family. I don't want to say anymore on what happens in the story. I loved it and I cannot wait for Eros to fall in love.
If I had one little gripe, is that Jax was so close to telling Kinsley in a moment of intimacy that all this is new to him like it is with her, but pleasure takes over him and he doesn't tell her (it was in a passage I quoted earlier). I think she knows, he did mention that there is no one, and that he only thought of her when taking care of his needs with his own hand, but I wish we had more of him telling her that he is new to sex as well. It's ok though because it seems like she knows with the context clues he gives her. I think I was so spoiled with other heroes in Lucy Darling's stories being very vocal about their women being their first, last and only, that I wanted those words. Its ok though, because they are each others first and only everything! NO woman interested him until her, so lust and love blossomed within both Jax and Kinsley when they met and here are a few quotes that make me believe Kinsley knows that about him:
Quote,
“Masturbate!” Kinsley’s eyes go wide, her cheeks turning redder than they already were.
“That’s what I said.” She opens and then closes her mouth. “You get to think about anything you want.” I keep my eyes locked on hers. “All my fantasies I have right in this bed are about you, Bunny. Every one of them.”
“Jax,” she whispers my name loudly. “What are you doing?”
“Just telling you that you’re a knockout and you’re the only one I fuck my hand and think about.” I pat the bed. “Right here.”
“Oh, my God.” She covers her face with her hands.
“Every night.”
end quote.
Quote,
"What are you saying?" Her eyes search my face. "There aren't any girls for you to worry about, and there won't be. So get that thought out of your pretty little head."
“No girls to worry about. There’s no way you’re that obtuse, Jax.” Kinsley lets out a laugh as though I’ve said the most ridiculous thing she’s ever heard in her life.
I do the only thing that I can at that moment. I take her mouth with mine. Not to silence her but to show her that she’s mine and she’ll be the only girl that ever will be.
end quote.
Quote,
“We can go as fast as you want.” Bunny kisses the center of my chest. “You know how many girls at school would die to do this?”
“Never thought about it.”
“Well, you —”
“Don’t want to think about it,” I cut her off. “They mean nothing. After graduation, I won’t see any of them again.”
"And you only want me."
"You're finally getting it." She smirks, kissing my chest again, but lower.
end quote
I loved it! I recommend it and I will reread it again! Lucy Darling is really becoming my top favorite author.
Happy reading!
DUAL VIRGINS! They are each others first and only everything! *booty shake! happy dance!*
Quote(his status)
“You feel so good.” She rocks her pussy up and down my cock. I’m about to make her feel a whole lot better.
I may have never done this before, but I’m a quick study, and I’m not naïve. I also have a fuck ton of fantasies of her built up in my mind from over the years. There is no telling how many times I fucked my own hand thinking about it being her pussy while she moaned my name.
end quote.
Quote, (his and her status)
She focuses her attention back on my cock, watching herself stroke me. She leans down, her mouth a hair's breadth away from the tip. Her little pink tongue comes out to lick the wetness from it. My hips buck, wanting more.
“I’ve never done this before. So I don’t really know what I’m doing,” she whispers.
I’m about to tell her there is nothing she could do wrong and that I’ve never done this before either, but before I can utter a word, she wraps her warm lips around the head and takes my cock fully into her mouth.
end quote
Safe
No cheating
No OM
Unwanted OW (a girl high as a kite tried to get his attention at a party, but when she placed her hand on his chest he swatted it away making her fall and just walked over her)
No OM/OW comparisons
No separation (they knew of each other for 2 or 3 years attending the same high school and he was watching her from afar never far from her, but this is their senior year when our hero decides to go claim our heroine!)
No gross condom use
No stupid third act break up
High school romance, some mystery, there is little angst, but the drama is offset well with the romance
HEA
This is the story of the second generation of the Marino family. Jax, is attending Golden Prep high with Kinsley. Jax is Cosima and Z's son, so he is a true Marino when it comes to finding the one and being completely obsessed with her. Jax is intense, patient, laser focused, attentive, dangerous to anyone dare approaching his bunny and incredibly romantic. He was in love with Kinsley for almost 3 years, but decides to now go after her and claim her as his own, after all she has his heart in her hands for that long, and didn't even know it.
Kinsley is snoopy, loves gossip, isn't paid attention to by her parents making her feel unwanted and she is cautious that this handsome kid at school wants to be with her all of a sudden. She is a bit skittish, but her vulnerability makes her likeable. She has had a crush on Jax, but never thought he would go for an "ordinary girl", as she describes herself. Little does she know that to him, she is a the most beautiful girl he has ever seen and all his!
Their interaction was sweet with a little hint of dangerous emanating from our young mafioso but he is nothing but sweet to her. He does take from his father and I am happy we got to see Z and Cosima again, with more of the family. I have to say that one cousin Naomi in particular was very interesting. Another character who will have her own story with Jax's older brother Eros, is Blair. She is Kinsley's friend and is a goth girl. She is assertive and I cannot wait to see her story with Eros.
Jax and Kinsley's love story is entangled in a mystery, with them trying to solve it, and of course many sequences of events unfold, and many moments made me gasp in pleasant surprise. He tried to teach her a lesson about being cautious, but it backfired and they landed themselves into some hot water which then had them, his other brother attending the school (hoping he also has a story) trying to solve it along with Blair and more of the Marino family. I don't want to say anymore on what happens in the story. I loved it and I cannot wait for Eros to fall in love.
If I had one little gripe, is that Jax was so close to telling Kinsley in a moment of intimacy that all this is new to him like it is with her, but pleasure takes over him and he doesn't tell her (it was in a passage I quoted earlier). I think she knows, he did mention that there is no one, and that he only thought of her when taking care of his needs with his own hand, but I wish we had more of him telling her that he is new to sex as well. It's ok though because it seems like she knows with the context clues he gives her. I think I was so spoiled with other heroes in Lucy Darling's stories being very vocal about their women being their first, last and only, that I wanted those words. Its ok though, because they are each others first and only everything! NO woman interested him until her, so lust and love blossomed within both Jax and Kinsley when they met and here are a few quotes that make me believe Kinsley knows that about him:
Quote,
“Masturbate!” Kinsley’s eyes go wide, her cheeks turning redder than they already were.
“That’s what I said.” She opens and then closes her mouth. “You get to think about anything you want.” I keep my eyes locked on hers. “All my fantasies I have right in this bed are about you, Bunny. Every one of them.”
“Jax,” she whispers my name loudly. “What are you doing?”
“Just telling you that you’re a knockout and you’re the only one I fuck my hand and think about.” I pat the bed. “Right here.”
“Oh, my God.” She covers her face with her hands.
“Every night.”
end quote.
Quote,
"What are you saying?" Her eyes search my face. "There aren't any girls for you to worry about, and there won't be. So get that thought out of your pretty little head."
“No girls to worry about. There’s no way you’re that obtuse, Jax.” Kinsley lets out a laugh as though I’ve said the most ridiculous thing she’s ever heard in her life.
I do the only thing that I can at that moment. I take her mouth with mine. Not to silence her but to show her that she’s mine and she’ll be the only girl that ever will be.
end quote.
Quote,
“We can go as fast as you want.” Bunny kisses the center of my chest. “You know how many girls at school would die to do this?”
“Never thought about it.”
“Well, you —”
“Don’t want to think about it,” I cut her off. “They mean nothing. After graduation, I won’t see any of them again.”
"And you only want me."
"You're finally getting it." She smirks, kissing my chest again, but lower.
end quote
I loved it! I recommend it and I will reread it again! Lucy Darling is really becoming my top favorite author.
Happy reading!
Read
November 6, 2025hmmm
November 17, 2025
This is such a difference from my last few failed reads. I enjoyed every page of it and I can safely say that Lucy Darling is an author I will come back to more often than not.
This is a series about the offsprings of an Italian Mafia. It's more vanilla than gory but has enough mystery to keep you satisfied.
Have to say the authoe has done her research well, and given that the MCs are teenagers, the language she uses pretty much interprets kids nowadays. The narrative is also logical and on par with the premise and the characters.
They are smart and level headed but not to the extent to make you think you are reading about a 20 or 30 year old MC. Their logic and behaviour makes total sense.
Jax is obsessed and over protective but not in a cheesy way. He is adorably cute. He is a Mafia kid and he knows what he wants.
This is dual V and I am here for it. The author did not just use the dual V card to appease readers who are suckers for this trope (Me included 🙋♀️), but she backed her reasoning with family moral values and Mafia trust issues. In this family, members are aware that letting someone in means trusting that someone enough to bring them into their inner circle. Family is what matters and not sleeping around. If you set your mind on someone then it better be endgame. And I loved that!
This book was such a pleasant surprise. I can't wait for the rest of the series to be released. Definitely checking this author's other books as well.
"Don't try and soften me to whatever you're about to say with that dimple of yours. You can put it away."
"My dimple does it for you?" I reach up and touch my cheek
"Like you don't know. Always flashing it around."
Fucking hell, I adore her. I didn't know that, but now I'll be using it all the time on her. I'd do whatever I need to keep her close.
"I'll make sure l'm not flashing it at other girls."
I felt though that Jax relied too much on his family and cousins to take care of things. He was too busy gluing himself to her.
And that epilogue? Adorable!
For future reference: The brothers are Eros (future head of Morino mafia), Damon (the enforcer) and Jax (numbers wizard). The sister Nix (empathetic, people's person). Cousins are Cooper (enigmatic), Naomi (badass never smiles, people are scared of her), Mac (tech wizard). Blair 😏
All Morino girls are part of Girl Bunker Club.
Ticking another Fall/Winter 🍁❄️ Bingo square:
04) "Vengeance to be had" He avenged her for the kidnapping
🔴 | 05 | 30 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 20
🔴 | 09 | 31 | 14 | 25 | 🔴
19 | 08 | 13 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 35
🔴 | 🔴 | 12 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 33 | 18 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
This is a series about the offsprings of an Italian Mafia. It's more vanilla than gory but has enough mystery to keep you satisfied.
Have to say the authoe has done her research well, and given that the MCs are teenagers, the language she uses pretty much interprets kids nowadays. The narrative is also logical and on par with the premise and the characters.
They are smart and level headed but not to the extent to make you think you are reading about a 20 or 30 year old MC. Their logic and behaviour makes total sense.
Jax is obsessed and over protective but not in a cheesy way. He is adorably cute. He is a Mafia kid and he knows what he wants.
This is dual V and I am here for it. The author did not just use the dual V card to appease readers who are suckers for this trope (Me included 🙋♀️), but she backed her reasoning with family moral values and Mafia trust issues. In this family, members are aware that letting someone in means trusting that someone enough to bring them into their inner circle. Family is what matters and not sleeping around. If you set your mind on someone then it better be endgame. And I loved that!
This book was such a pleasant surprise. I can't wait for the rest of the series to be released. Definitely checking this author's other books as well.
"Don't try and soften me to whatever you're about to say with that dimple of yours. You can put it away."
"My dimple does it for you?" I reach up and touch my cheek
"Like you don't know. Always flashing it around."
Fucking hell, I adore her. I didn't know that, but now I'll be using it all the time on her. I'd do whatever I need to keep her close.
"I'll make sure l'm not flashing it at other girls."
I felt though that Jax relied too much on his family and cousins to take care of things. He was too busy gluing himself to her.
And that epilogue? Adorable!
For future reference: The brothers are Eros (future head of Morino mafia), Damon (the enforcer) and Jax (numbers wizard). The sister Nix (empathetic, people's person). Cousins are Cooper (enigmatic), Naomi (badass never smiles, people are scared of her), Mac (tech wizard). Blair 😏
All Morino girls are part of Girl Bunker Club.
Ticking another Fall/Winter 🍁❄️ Bingo square:
04) "Vengeance to be had" He avenged her for the kidnapping
🔴 | 05 | 30 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 20
🔴 | 09 | 31 | 14 | 25 | 🔴
19 | 08 | 13 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 35
🔴 | 🔴 | 12 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
🔴 | 33 | 18 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴
December 7, 2025
Really liked this. It’s of course a insta love when they met 3 years ago, but the H is a mafia man and was afraid to scare her away, so he’s been keeping multiple eyes on her during those years, and now he’s done.
Some action with murders, so a little more than just love-feast.
Perfectly safe, dual V, they only have eyes for each other. Some girls wants the H attention, and I like when H literally push them away (specially when the girls are ao much, so H pushes ow so hard she falls on her ass 👏🏼). H only ever wanted h and was so obsessed he hired his own housekeeper to be h’s housekeeper for the last three years, just so he knew she was well fed and safe!
Some action with murders, so a little more than just love-feast.
Perfectly safe, dual V, they only have eyes for each other. Some girls wants the H attention, and I like when H literally push them away (specially when the girls are ao much, so H pushes ow so hard she falls on her ass 👏🏼). H only ever wanted h and was so obsessed he hired his own housekeeper to be h’s housekeeper for the last three years, just so he knew she was well fed and safe!
November 9, 2025
Next generation of the Marino family, I'm all in!
I enjoyed getting to know the Marino family in previous novels, so now that we have the chance to meet their offspring, I am more than ready to get excited about their own love stories. Several brothers and a sister is a good start. The two brothers are all about mischief and power plays, but Jax is obsessed with a girl at high school that's into gossip and secrets. Now he has a plan to get noticed and lure her into his trap.
I really enjoyed the intrigue part of the story. It adds a dark edge that's also laced with sweet romance and obsessive protectiveness. Good combination :-D
Mystery, murder, secrets and mortal danger keep this emerging couple very busy while he shows her how deep his love for her runs. No time for subterfuge nor boredom. I had a great time with the plot.
The family banter and dynamics are hilarious yet cute, so I understand how besotted Kinsley feels about a caring family when she's so lonely. I even laughed when they all get together to conspire and eat because it's funny, cosy and a little mischievous.
I enjoyed getting to know the Marino family in previous novels, so now that we have the chance to meet their offspring, I am more than ready to get excited about their own love stories. Several brothers and a sister is a good start. The two brothers are all about mischief and power plays, but Jax is obsessed with a girl at high school that's into gossip and secrets. Now he has a plan to get noticed and lure her into his trap.
I really enjoyed the intrigue part of the story. It adds a dark edge that's also laced with sweet romance and obsessive protectiveness. Good combination :-D
Mystery, murder, secrets and mortal danger keep this emerging couple very busy while he shows her how deep his love for her runs. No time for subterfuge nor boredom. I had a great time with the plot.
The family banter and dynamics are hilarious yet cute, so I understand how besotted Kinsley feels about a caring family when she's so lonely. I even laughed when they all get together to conspire and eat because it's funny, cosy and a little mischievous.
February 17, 2026
I started reading this on Valentine’s Day thinking I needed a short story to restart my reading drive. Well, this one is longer than Lucy Darling’s usual novels, but strangely it still feels short because not much is happening?
This is like a school girl’s fantasy come to life with smutty pages- Being the most ignored girl in school, but apparently the hottest jock in the football team has had the most intense obsession with you for the last few years but he was checking himself because he didn’t want to scare you. You think you’re plain but you’re actually beautiful because he has been fighting boys off you without you knowing. I mean, I don’t know if I’ll roll my eyes or laugh out loud 😂 Add in the element of danger and “maturity” Jax the hero exudes, being born into a supposed powerful mafia family. It’s all the cliche rolled into one. Plus he’s a virgin because he’s saving himself for her.
If you want the ultimate most unrealistic fantasy, then this book is for you.
This isn’t so bad. The heroine at least has some personality- Her name’s Kinsley, she’s an only child by busy doctor parents, and she is nosy af for she wants to be a reporter. That kind of added one star to this book.
Three average stars. But will continue the series.
This is like a school girl’s fantasy come to life with smutty pages- Being the most ignored girl in school, but apparently the hottest jock in the football team has had the most intense obsession with you for the last few years but he was checking himself because he didn’t want to scare you. You think you’re plain but you’re actually beautiful because he has been fighting boys off you without you knowing. I mean, I don’t know if I’ll roll my eyes or laugh out loud 😂 Add in the element of danger and “maturity” Jax the hero exudes, being born into a supposed powerful mafia family. It’s all the cliche rolled into one. Plus he’s a virgin because he’s saving himself for her.
If you want the ultimate most unrealistic fantasy, then this book is for you.
This isn’t so bad. The heroine at least has some personality- Her name’s Kinsley, she’s an only child by busy doctor parents, and she is nosy af for she wants to be a reporter. That kind of added one star to this book.
Three average stars. But will continue the series.
December 6, 2025
This was ok but I found this hard to get into for the first 25% I think it’s the high school thing, even though they’re 18. If I read MCs that age I usually just age them up in my head but it’s hard to do that when they’re literally in school so I skipped all the spicy scenes too.
I loved seeing Cosima and Z again as parents, she’s exactly as you’d expect her to be. The Marino family is fun to read about so I’ll probably continue the series anyway since they’re quick easy reads.
Dual PoV
Dual virgins
Second gen- Jax’s parents are Cosima and Z from Honor and Claim (A New Reign series) by this author
Safe no owd/omd
No third act breakup
HEA
Epilogue- few years later happily married with a son
I loved seeing Cosima and Z again as parents, she’s exactly as you’d expect her to be. The Marino family is fun to read about so I’ll probably continue the series anyway since they’re quick easy reads.
Dual PoV
Dual virgins
Second gen- Jax’s parents are Cosima and Z from Honor and Claim (A New Reign series) by this author
Safe no owd/omd
No third act breakup
HEA
Epilogue- few years later happily married with a son
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2025
4.5⭐️
Second Gen (Cosima & Zero’s Second eldest kid)
Obsessed OTT J/P MMC
Witty FMC
Stalking
Dual Virgins
No OWD/OMD
No Third Act Break Up
Dual POV
HEA
Second Gen (Cosima & Zero’s Second eldest kid)
Obsessed OTT J/P MMC
Witty FMC
Stalking
Dual Virgins
No OWD/OMD
No Third Act Break Up
Dual POV
HEA
November 13, 2025
“His pretty little liars” is the story of Kinsley and Jax.
Very sweet romance with a smitten hero and an oblivious heroine- set in high school.
It was ok!
Safe
2/5
Very sweet romance with a smitten hero and an oblivious heroine- set in high school.
It was ok!
Safe
2/5
November 24, 2025
It was okay. It would’ve been better if it wasn’t high school.
There’s no actual smex until the end.
It made no sense that he’s been obsessed with her for 3 years but waited to make his move.
There’s no actual smex until the end.
It made no sense that he’s been obsessed with her for 3 years but waited to make his move.
November 10, 2025
His One and Only
Jax has been in love with Kinsley from afar for the past three years. Well, he’s finally going to make her his this year. He decides to have a note delivered to her locker with news of meeting a mystery person in an abandoned warehouse. He warned her not to go to places like that alone. Good thing it’s just him meeting her BUT something goes wrong…
Jax has been in love with Kinsley from afar for the past three years. Well, he’s finally going to make her his this year. He decides to have a note delivered to her locker with news of meeting a mystery person in an abandoned warehouse. He warned her not to go to places like that alone. Good thing it’s just him meeting her BUT something goes wrong…
November 9, 2025
second Generation
This is the start of sons and daughters from a favourite series by this author. I’m looking forward to the next book.
This is the start of sons and daughters from a favourite series by this author. I’m looking forward to the next book.
December 7, 2025
Now we get the second generation of the Marino crime family, which went kind of semi legit. Jax is the son of Cosima and Z and he inherited the obsession and love of the Marinos. Jax met his Kinsley three years prior, but has vowed to his father to stay away from women till he is an adult. Well nobody said something about stalking being wrong too😏. Kinsley always thought Jax was glaring at her and not interested in her, but boy was she wrong. When possible danger brings them together, nothing and nobody can stop Jax from keeping his woman safe and happy. Can't wait for the next story in this series. 😍 Insta love, steamy, sweet, interesting storyline, with action, funny banter and totally safe (they were their one and only-in every way😏) with a sweet HEA and no OP drama😍😍😍😍😍
November 14, 2025
*Contains SPOILERS* for SAFE readers…
Jax and Kinsley
SAFETY remarks
- SAFE
- Dual virgins… but special: both untouched, first and onlys
- cheating/sharing: no
- ow/om: no
- separation/breakups: no
- possible triggers: violence, murder, kidnapping
- HEA
OMG!!! I definitely am buying this book!!! This is the second generation of the Marino Family. And I am so excited and loving it!!! Because I loved the first gen books: War and Tova, Z and Cosima, and Marks and Ronan. And I’m loving that they appear in this book too and are part of their kids lives; and that the kids admire, love and respect their parents.
Oh, I really loved this book. It is so complete, it has a lot!! We have Jax, second son of Z and Cosima, which is just like his dad: OTT, a bulldozer, controlling in a good way, a JP, obsessed guy… super obsessed, unhinged. I love it. It also has action, spying, stalking, reporting, laughter.
They are both virgins. He doesn’t like to be touched by people, except by his girl, and maybe family. So, they have their firsts together. His dad has a rule for the kids of not sleeping with females until adult, and he says he has followed the rule… kind of. This is a comment in the beginning could suggest he did something, but eventually he explains he has just touched himself – thinking of her.
The closeness he has with his brother Damon, like twins. They move like a unit. It’s amazing. And how protective they all are of their little sister. Cosima being … well Cosima 🤭, he received Kinsley immediately and made her feel part of the family. Loved reading about the rest of the kids, how they have personalities similar to their parents or their uncles. It is just fascinating to me this family.
I got a little disappointed that Kinsley had a vape pen (I don’t like drugs for MCs), but I think it’s not that she uses it, it’s more like a prop to appear like she’s relaxing in a corner while she listens to everyone’s stories. She’s a gossip girl!! Well, she’s a reporter for her media class. So, that’s part of getting the tea like she said.
It was weird to read they have been in the same school and many classes together but he hasn’t talked to her in those 3 years!! It’s silly for him to wait that long.
And the party thing!! Ugh. Yeah, he should’ve told her what he was going to do. Hiding stuff brings problems.
At the end, I didn’t see much lies in this book so the title kinda confused me. I was a little scared, thinking he was gonna be a super lier and be a bad MC. But it was the contrary.
I loved that it wasn’t a short story. Loved that she acquired a new family, a new girl’s club which is pretty tight, btw. She just got a beautiful new life. I can’t wait to read about the rest of the siblings and cousins. I love this family.
Next story is about Eros and Blair. Can it get here faster?
Jax and Kinsley
SAFETY remarks
- SAFE
- Dual virgins… but special: both untouched, first and onlys
- cheating/sharing: no
- ow/om: no
- separation/breakups: no
- possible triggers: violence, murder, kidnapping
- HEA
OMG!!! I definitely am buying this book!!! This is the second generation of the Marino Family. And I am so excited and loving it!!! Because I loved the first gen books: War and Tova, Z and Cosima, and Marks and Ronan. And I’m loving that they appear in this book too and are part of their kids lives; and that the kids admire, love and respect their parents.
Oh, I really loved this book. It is so complete, it has a lot!! We have Jax, second son of Z and Cosima, which is just like his dad: OTT, a bulldozer, controlling in a good way, a JP, obsessed guy… super obsessed, unhinged. I love it. It also has action, spying, stalking, reporting, laughter.
They are both virgins. He doesn’t like to be touched by people, except by his girl, and maybe family. So, they have their firsts together. His dad has a rule for the kids of not sleeping with females until adult, and he says he has followed the rule… kind of. This is a comment in the beginning could suggest he did something, but eventually he explains he has just touched himself – thinking of her.
The closeness he has with his brother Damon, like twins. They move like a unit. It’s amazing. And how protective they all are of their little sister. Cosima being … well Cosima 🤭, he received Kinsley immediately and made her feel part of the family. Loved reading about the rest of the kids, how they have personalities similar to their parents or their uncles. It is just fascinating to me this family.
I got a little disappointed that Kinsley had a vape pen (I don’t like drugs for MCs), but I think it’s not that she uses it, it’s more like a prop to appear like she’s relaxing in a corner while she listens to everyone’s stories. She’s a gossip girl!! Well, she’s a reporter for her media class. So, that’s part of getting the tea like she said.
It was weird to read they have been in the same school and many classes together but he hasn’t talked to her in those 3 years!! It’s silly for him to wait that long.
And the party thing!! Ugh. Yeah, he should’ve told her what he was going to do. Hiding stuff brings problems.
At the end, I didn’t see much lies in this book so the title kinda confused me. I was a little scared, thinking he was gonna be a super lier and be a bad MC. But it was the contrary.
I loved that it wasn’t a short story. Loved that she acquired a new family, a new girl’s club which is pretty tight, btw. She just got a beautiful new life. I can’t wait to read about the rest of the siblings and cousins. I love this family.
Next story is about Eros and Blair. Can it get here faster?
November 21, 2025
This book started out SOOOO GOOD, but then at like 40% it was like someone else was writing this! I absolutley love how obsessed Jax was with his Bunny! But I honestly don’t understand why it took him three years to approach her. And he never even gave a great reason for it. This book was honestly all over the place and got so annoying after about 40%. Like everything was so hot and obsessive, but then everything started to just not make sense and pop up out of nowhere. It’s like the author tried to make 5 plot lines all into one or something. Also don’t even get me STARTED on the fact that this was supposed to be a short and “spicy” read yet they didn’t even have sex until the very last chapter. Like they fr had sex one time and it wasn’t even hot and sexy or descriptive. AND WHAT THE HECK WAS THAT EPILOGUE???????? Like the whole epilogue was so nonchalant and just so out there bc what the actual heck???? You mean to tell me she had a kid and we didn’t even get to see him, we didn’t get hardly anything out of their relationship, and of all things they were chasing down some cheater from Reddit????? Why was that the epilogue of all things??? It just didn’t make sense and honestly made me so mad bc I wanted more from their relationship. I really liked the family dynamic through this story, but it doesn’t make up for how awful and out there this book was. Honestly do not recommend! AVOID!
December 22, 2025
I loved Kinsley and Jax and I love a good virgin mmc x virgin fmc.
Jax Marino is the son of Z and Cosima. He's been watching Cosima for years and finally decides it's the year to 'claim' her as his. Jax is somewhat of a possessive/obsessive/jealous mmc, but he's def a bit OTT. There's tracking, stalking, violence... I mean its a Mafia esq. series following the "A New Reign" offspring... expect the expected. Kinsley is the sweetest and super inquisitive. I love a smart, headstrong heroine who knows when to pull back when things get crazy because she knows she's out of her element.
Long story short, Kinsley is part of her school newspaper/media team that reports on stories. Jax is the golden boy of Golden Prep, the star football player. Jax finally makes a move on Kinsley in their science class (funny official meet cute moment involving lab partners) and of course Kinsley's always liked him so that helps develop their relationship. Jax then sets up a fake story at the Marino warehouse but it ends up there actually is a dead body that Kinsley finds and the whole premise is them taking down a new drug (ring) with the help of all the "A New Reign" men and kids.
The only real downfall is that these characters are in high school. I feel like it had to be this age to make sense, BUT we could've shifted to at least college aged since their parents stories were set when they were 20s+.
Jax Marino is the son of Z and Cosima. He's been watching Cosima for years and finally decides it's the year to 'claim' her as his. Jax is somewhat of a possessive/obsessive/jealous mmc, but he's def a bit OTT. There's tracking, stalking, violence... I mean its a Mafia esq. series following the "A New Reign" offspring... expect the expected. Kinsley is the sweetest and super inquisitive. I love a smart, headstrong heroine who knows when to pull back when things get crazy because she knows she's out of her element.
Long story short, Kinsley is part of her school newspaper/media team that reports on stories. Jax is the golden boy of Golden Prep, the star football player. Jax finally makes a move on Kinsley in their science class (funny official meet cute moment involving lab partners) and of course Kinsley's always liked him so that helps develop their relationship. Jax then sets up a fake story at the Marino warehouse but it ends up there actually is a dead body that Kinsley finds and the whole premise is them taking down a new drug (ring) with the help of all the "A New Reign" men and kids.
The only real downfall is that these characters are in high school. I feel like it had to be this age to make sense, BUT we could've shifted to at least college aged since their parents stories were set when they were 20s+.
November 27, 2025
Tenía mucho que no leía nada de Lucy. Algo que siempre me ha gustado de sus libros es que, para el protagonista, no existe otra mujer más que la protagonista. Aquí, Jax lleva años enamorado de Kinsley y solo espera a que ella sea mayor para poder demostrarle su amor, pero en el último año de preparatoria ya no soporta seguir separado de ella.
Algo que me molesta del tropo “siempre has sido tú” (en otros libros) es que intentan vender que el prota está perdidamente enamorado de la protagonista, pero aun así sale con cualquiera que se le atraviese. Aquí no sucede eso. Jax espera a Kinsley y no hay nadie más para él.
Algo que me molesta del tropo “siempre has sido tú” (en otros libros) es que intentan vender que el prota está perdidamente enamorado de la protagonista, pero aun así sale con cualquiera que se le atraviese. Aquí no sucede eso. Jax espera a Kinsley y no hay nadie más para él.
November 8, 2025
Oh … this was SO good!!! I love an obsessed, stalkerish MMC in my books. And Jax hit all of the buttons. He saw Kinsley and knew she was it for him. For three years he watched over her and learned everything he could while loving her from afar. Senior year, he was done waiting. Kinsley couldn’t understand ��� why her? But she was perfect for Jax and fit in right away with the Marino family. I love that we are now getting stories for the Marino next generation. I can’t wait for Eros, Naomi, Mac, Damon and Nix. So good!!
November 9, 2025
Dare I say the next generation of Marino’s are crazier and falling just as hard, if not harder, into love like just their parents. If you loved Lucy Darling’s New Reign series as much as me, then you’re in for a treat with this book! Jax and Kinsley were adorable, and the romance was so sweet for their family. If you know you know!
I loved every minuscule second of this book and it will definitely be in my re-readable rotation with all the parents books. I might just go back and read Vow of Obsession right now for more of my Lucy Darling fix!
I loved every minuscule second of this book and it will definitely be in my re-readable rotation with all the parents books. I might just go back and read Vow of Obsession right now for more of my Lucy Darling fix!
November 14, 2025
intriguing love story
Jax Marino knew Kinsley was the one the minute he saw her. He’s watched her from afar but they’re 18 now and he’s making his move. Kinsley has a curious mind, head of her school paper and is always looking for stories. When Kinsley and Jax accidentally see a murdered girl Jax has to ask his family for help. More going on with a new drug in town killing their friends. With the help of the Marino family can Kinsley and Jax get to the truth in time. Loved this intriguing love story, lots of action and loving and a great read. Can’t wait for the next one.
Jax Marino knew Kinsley was the one the minute he saw her. He’s watched her from afar but they’re 18 now and he’s making his move. Kinsley has a curious mind, head of her school paper and is always looking for stories. When Kinsley and Jax accidentally see a murdered girl Jax has to ask his family for help. More going on with a new drug in town killing their friends. With the help of the Marino family can Kinsley and Jax get to the truth in time. Loved this intriguing love story, lots of action and loving and a great read. Can’t wait for the next one.
December 22, 2025
I loved reading about the beginning of what will be the second generation of Marinos.
Jax is a perfect blend of Z and Cosima, obsessive yet methodical, with his own unique sense of humor.
Kinsley Blake is curious, a little distrustful, but deep down, she's very attracted to Jax's personality.
I also loved getting a glimpse into the other Marino boys and girls and their distinct personalities.
This romance has a touch of suspense, but it's perfectly balanced with the kind of romance the author is known for. 💗🥰
Jax is a perfect blend of Z and Cosima, obsessive yet methodical, with his own unique sense of humor.
Kinsley Blake is curious, a little distrustful, but deep down, she's very attracted to Jax's personality.
I also loved getting a glimpse into the other Marino boys and girls and their distinct personalities.
This romance has a touch of suspense, but it's perfectly balanced with the kind of romance the author is known for. 💗🥰
February 11, 2026
Next Generation
Oh my heart.
I absolutely loved the New Reign series and now we got to have a look at the next generation of the obsessive men in the Marino family!
Jax and Kinsley are perfect together. They are both intelligent and work well together and the fact his family accepted her so easily when she desperately needed a family just makes me love them all the more!
I would love to be any of these women because who doesn’t love an obsessive man willing to do anything to have you and keep you safe?!
Oh my heart.
I absolutely loved the New Reign series and now we got to have a look at the next generation of the obsessive men in the Marino family!
Jax and Kinsley are perfect together. They are both intelligent and work well together and the fact his family accepted her so easily when she desperately needed a family just makes me love them all the more!
I would love to be any of these women because who doesn’t love an obsessive man willing to do anything to have you and keep you safe?!
November 13, 2025
I love when a series I love gets a next generation series! Keeps the good times rolling along! Here is the start, with Jax, who is one of Z & Cosima’s kids. He’s just like his dad (and the rest of the Marino’s) where he saw & that was it. He watched & “stalked” Kinsley for 3 years before he had enough waiting. Now, he won’t let her go. And she finally gets to be part of a family. I loved it! Can’t wait for more.
November 14, 2025
3.5💫
Hijole, me gustaron más los de los papás.
Igual y porque venía con ciertas expectativas, y éste libro fue más de misterio que de romance creo. Por lo menos al nivel de los anteriores.
Si bien fue divertido y marca un buen nivel de tensión (mayormente al principio porque luego decae), no llega ser tan iconico como los predecesores.
Lo recomiendo si buscas algo más bien de misterio con instalove clásico.
Hijole, me gustaron más los de los papás.
Igual y porque venía con ciertas expectativas, y éste libro fue más de misterio que de romance creo. Por lo menos al nivel de los anteriores.
Si bien fue divertido y marca un buen nivel de tensión (mayormente al principio porque luego decae), no llega ser tan iconico como los predecesores.
Lo recomiendo si buscas algo más bien de misterio con instalove clásico.
November 7, 2025
Jax and Kinsley
Jax and Kinsley have a somewhat slow burn romance with some funny moments and some tense moments. I liked their story. They really want to solve the mystery they witnessed by accident. It's a good story! Also, I liked that we got to see a few of the previous characters. I had fun reading it!
Jax and Kinsley have a somewhat slow burn romance with some funny moments and some tense moments. I liked their story. They really want to solve the mystery they witnessed by accident. It's a good story! Also, I liked that we got to see a few of the previous characters. I had fun reading it!
November 9, 2025
I love that I get to see characters from one of my favorite Lucy Darling series get continued on into the next generation. First off is Jax and Kinsley. Jax fell for her the second he saw her and then spent a few years protecting her from afar until it was time to let her know she was his. He just needs her to catch up to him.
November 10, 2025
Wonderful!
This book follows the next generation of Marinos. They fall hard and at first sight. Jax and Kingsley are sweet with a hint of spicy. I loved their story.
I love that I can see how a family changes theough the years from the stories of the parents to now the stories of the children!
I can't wait for the next in the series.
This book follows the next generation of Marinos. They fall hard and at first sight. Jax and Kingsley are sweet with a hint of spicy. I loved their story.
I love that I can see how a family changes theough the years from the stories of the parents to now the stories of the children!
I can't wait for the next in the series.
November 11, 2025
3.5
the book was ok but it was more centered on other stuffs than the couple which su*ked...
i loved them together but unfortunately it wasn't a good plot for them.. :(
especially at the end where everything was rushed and all the important stuffs were off page.. ugg
this could've been easy an 5 star...
the book was ok but it was more centered on other stuffs than the couple which su*ked...
i loved them together but unfortunately it wasn't a good plot for them.. :(
especially at the end where everything was rushed and all the important stuffs were off page.. ugg
this could've been easy an 5 star...
November 14, 2025
Love these longer ones..
I love that there is more character and relationship development in these longer stories. It didnt feel rushed and I glad there wasnt too much highschool drama. Jax and Kinsley are a great couple. Lots of chemistry. Lucy Darling is one of my favorite rokance authors. Love her.
I love that there is more character and relationship development in these longer stories. It didnt feel rushed and I glad there wasnt too much highschool drama. Jax and Kinsley are a great couple. Lots of chemistry. Lucy Darling is one of my favorite rokance authors. Love her.
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