What do you think?
Rate this book
Promised to Him
He's going to take what he was promised. Me.
As he drags me back to his sleek luxury car, kissing me roughly even as he strips off my clothes, I know Ash Calderon means it when he says he's going to make sure I never run from him again.
He's already chased me down and spanked my bare ass red once before, and when I'm done bucking and writhing and coming like a bad girl for him today I'll be lucky if I can still walk.
But the truth is I belonged to him long before the night he carried me off.
Publisher's Promised to Him is a standalone romance. It includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.
As he drags me back to his sleek luxury car, kissing me roughly even as he strips off my clothes, I know Ash Calderon means it when he says he's going to make sure I never run from him again.
He's already chased me down and spanked my bare ass red once before, and when I'm done bucking and writhing and coming like a bad girl for him today I'll be lucky if I can still walk.
But the truth is I belonged to him long before the night he carried me off.
Publisher's Promised to Him is a standalone romance. It includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2025
156 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 13, 2025
He’s going to take what he was promised. Her.
Promised to Him is a dark, possessive, and spicy mafia romance that’s equal parts emotional and intense. It’s an instalove story that doesn’t waste time getting straight into the heat — and it’s filled with obsession, devotion, and a love that’s been simmering for over a decade.
She was promised to him.
Ash Calderon has been waiting twelve long years for Rose — the timid little girl who once followed him everywhere has grown into a beautiful woman. The moment he sees her again, standing there in her emerald green uniform, all those years of searching come to an end. She’s the one he’s been waiting for. She’s his.
✨ “Rose, you’re the only thing that’s ever mattered to me.” ✨
Rose’s life has been anything but easy. Always on the run, used by her father for his cons, and finally abandoned at a brothel to pay off his debt, she’s never known safety or love. Until Ash finds her again. He sees her and claims her before anyone else can. He protects her, shields her, and worships her.
✨ “You’re not property to me, Rose. You’re everything.” ✨
From the start, the spice hits hard. The smut dives straight in, unapologetic and intense. Rose might be a virgin, but not for long because Ash makes it clear she belongs to him. Despite his rough edges and dominance, he’s always gentle with her, always careful. Their chemistry is fiery, consuming, and impossible to ignore.
✨ “Everything that’s mine is yours, including me.” ✨
There’s a constant push and pull between them, Rose’s instinct to run and Ash’s relentless devotion to find her. No matter how far she tries to go, he’ll find her every time. It’s both heartbreaking and beautiful in that dark mafia way, where love and obsession blur together.
✨ “I told you before—you can run to the ends of the earth, and I’ll still find you. You can hate me, fight me, try to kill me, and I’ll still want you. You’re mine, Rose.” ✨
I loved this book. It’s a fast-paced, dark romance that balances fierce devotion with danger and heat. There’s a lot happening, twists, betrayals, and plenty of action that keeps you hooked.
Although I did find the repeated kidnappings, escapes, and fights with enemies a bit repetitive at times. It sometimes went from zero to one very quickly, and just when you thought it was over, something else happened. But with it being an insta-love romance, these moments did keep the story moving and full of tension, which is needed since sometimes insta-love books get quite boring halfway through.
Rose’s father frustrated me so much though, which honestly just shows how well Vanya wrote him. I completely despised him, which made every moment of Rose’s freedom and Ash’s protection feel even more satisfying.
Despite the chaos, this story delivers everything I love in a dark mafia romance, possessive love, emotional intensity, and a man who would burn the world down for the woman he calls his.
✨ “You’re everything I’ve ever wanted. Everything I’ve ever needed.” ✨
🖤 Mafia Boss
💍 Promised Lover
🔥 Virgin FMC
🥵 Possessive, Protective MMC
⚔️ Dark Themes / Violence
💞 Instalove
✨ HEA Guaranteed
Promised to Him is a dark, possessive, and spicy mafia romance that’s equal parts emotional and intense. It’s an instalove story that doesn’t waste time getting straight into the heat — and it’s filled with obsession, devotion, and a love that’s been simmering for over a decade.
She was promised to him.
Ash Calderon has been waiting twelve long years for Rose — the timid little girl who once followed him everywhere has grown into a beautiful woman. The moment he sees her again, standing there in her emerald green uniform, all those years of searching come to an end. She’s the one he’s been waiting for. She’s his.
✨ “Rose, you’re the only thing that’s ever mattered to me.” ✨
Rose’s life has been anything but easy. Always on the run, used by her father for his cons, and finally abandoned at a brothel to pay off his debt, she’s never known safety or love. Until Ash finds her again. He sees her and claims her before anyone else can. He protects her, shields her, and worships her.
✨ “You’re not property to me, Rose. You’re everything.” ✨
From the start, the spice hits hard. The smut dives straight in, unapologetic and intense. Rose might be a virgin, but not for long because Ash makes it clear she belongs to him. Despite his rough edges and dominance, he’s always gentle with her, always careful. Their chemistry is fiery, consuming, and impossible to ignore.
✨ “Everything that’s mine is yours, including me.” ✨
There’s a constant push and pull between them, Rose’s instinct to run and Ash’s relentless devotion to find her. No matter how far she tries to go, he’ll find her every time. It’s both heartbreaking and beautiful in that dark mafia way, where love and obsession blur together.
✨ “I told you before—you can run to the ends of the earth, and I’ll still find you. You can hate me, fight me, try to kill me, and I’ll still want you. You’re mine, Rose.” ✨
I loved this book. It’s a fast-paced, dark romance that balances fierce devotion with danger and heat. There’s a lot happening, twists, betrayals, and plenty of action that keeps you hooked.
Although I did find the repeated kidnappings, escapes, and fights with enemies a bit repetitive at times. It sometimes went from zero to one very quickly, and just when you thought it was over, something else happened. But with it being an insta-love romance, these moments did keep the story moving and full of tension, which is needed since sometimes insta-love books get quite boring halfway through.
Rose’s father frustrated me so much though, which honestly just shows how well Vanya wrote him. I completely despised him, which made every moment of Rose’s freedom and Ash’s protection feel even more satisfying.
Despite the chaos, this story delivers everything I love in a dark mafia romance, possessive love, emotional intensity, and a man who would burn the world down for the woman he calls his.
✨ “You’re everything I’ve ever wanted. Everything I’ve ever needed.” ✨
🖤 Mafia Boss
💍 Promised Lover
🔥 Virgin FMC
🥵 Possessive, Protective MMC
⚔️ Dark Themes / Violence
💞 Instalove
✨ HEA Guaranteed
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2026
Plot: 2.5/5 • Spice: 3/5 ————> This moves at a super fast pace. Lightening speed. One minute she’s working the brothel, the next she’s on her backside.
I was rolling my eyes maybe 45 pages into this. I kind of knew we were on a downward spiral. Not sure why I continued. This wasn’t for me. The plot was good, it was just missing something all around.
Standalone. HEA. meh.
I was rolling my eyes maybe 45 pages into this. I kind of knew we were on a downward spiral. Not sure why I continued. This wasn’t for me. The plot was good, it was just missing something all around.
Standalone. HEA. meh.
November 2, 2025
It may have a slight feeling of one, but it's not exactly an "Arranged Marriage" story in my opinion. On the other hand, it is Mafia all the way through and through. I liked the characters and their personalities'. It had a nice steady storyline. Other than a couple parts I'd have taken out because I personally didn't feel they added to the overall story, it was a great read. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2025
Rose’s father may have been a con artist, but she always believed that no matter what, he loved her and would protect her. That illusion shatters the day he sells her to Victor Dane, fully aware of what that means. Rose is about to make her debut at The House, Victor’s high-end brothel. But fate, or perhaps pure luck intervenes when Ash walks back into her life. He remembers the wide-eyed little girl who used to trail after him like a shadow, and twelve years later, he recognizes her instantly. Those same haunting eyes. That same pull. He always knew he’d find her again, just not in a place like this. Rose doesn’t remember Ash right away, but it’s hard to ignore the man who saves you. As flickers of memory resurface, so does the sense of safety she once felt in his presence. Their connection deepens, but trust doesn’t come easily to Rose. No one’s ever shown her kindness without demanding something in return. The first time she runs, she’s terrified of him. The second time, she’s terrified of herself, of what she’s starting to feel. Ash is a man with a ruthless reputation, and he proves just how far he’ll go to protect what’s his. I loved how he accepted Rose’s past without judgment, understanding that she did what she had to do to survive. Now that she’s his, he’s determined to give her everything she’s ever been denied. Ironically, just when Rose finally stops running from Ash, the world seems determined to tear them apart. Enemies close in from every direction, Victor chief among them, but it’s Rose’s father who truly sent chills down my spine. His manipulative charm made it almost impossible to tell when, or if, he was ever sincere. Ash, though, is her shield. Her weapon. Her home. And God help anyone who dares to touch his Rose. The plot is fast-paced and full of action, with plenty of spice to satisfy dark romance fans. However, while I enjoy steamy scenes, I did feel the heat sometimes overshadowed the heart of the story. There were moments, like Rose’s rescue from the brothel or her rescue from Graves, when the timing felt off, and I found myself wishing for a little more breathing room before diving back into the passion. Couldn’t they at least have waited until they were somewhere safe? Sometimes, less really is more. That said, the chemistry between Ash and Rose is undeniable, and the tension, both romantic and violent, keeps the pages turning. Not sure where the arranged marriage comes in, but overall, this is a gritty, high-stakes mafia romance packed with betrayal, danger, devotion, and heat. If you’re looking for an intense story with a fiercely protective hero, a broken but resilient heroine, and enough action to keep your heart pounding, this one’s worth the read.
November 4, 2025
He came to take what was his. And he wasn't leaving without her.
Rose thought she'd escaped the worst. Raised by a con artist, sold to a brothel, and left to survive alone, she doesn't trust easily, especially a man like Ash. He walks back into her life, dangerous and unrelenting, bringing with him a promise she never truly escaped. One he never forgot. And he's not letting her go.
Ash doesn’t care that she ran. He doesn’t care what it costs. All that matters is she’s his. He’ll tear apart anything in his way, but with Rose, it’s not just about claiming. It’s about keeping. Because she’s the only thing that’s ever mattered, and he’s done pretending otherwise.
Their bond reignites under pressure, tangled in obsession, fear, and raw need. But when Rose's past catches up with her and secrets surface, she’s faced with a choice that could destroy them both. What she’s worth, who she belongs to, and what kind of future she can fight for all come into play.
As things unravel, they’re forced to confront who they’ve become. Rose learns to stop running and start choosing. Ash learns to hold without caging. Together, they fight to turn something dark and twisted into something real and lasting.
Rose grows from a survivor shaped by betrayal into a woman who owns her future. Ash transforms from a cold, obsessive protector into a partner capable of deep care and restraint. What begins as a brutal power struggle becomes something more, something neither of them expected.
A dark, steamy, emotionally charged romance with a possessive, morally gray hero and a resilient, guarded heroine in a second chance, arranged marriage, mafia setting, exploring obsession, control, trauma, survival, identity, loyalty, and redemption. It's about a woman reclaiming her strength while being consumed by a man who would destroy the world to protect her, and choosing a love that’s fierce, messy, and unbreakable.
The Elevator Pitch: A dangerously obsessed man finally claims the woman stolen from him, igniting a storm of passion, control, and unfinished history. What begins as a brutal power play twists into something deeper as secrets surface and loyalty is tested. Dark, steamy, and emotionally charged, their love refuses to be tamed.
Rose thought she'd escaped the worst. Raised by a con artist, sold to a brothel, and left to survive alone, she doesn't trust easily, especially a man like Ash. He walks back into her life, dangerous and unrelenting, bringing with him a promise she never truly escaped. One he never forgot. And he's not letting her go.
Ash doesn’t care that she ran. He doesn’t care what it costs. All that matters is she’s his. He’ll tear apart anything in his way, but with Rose, it’s not just about claiming. It’s about keeping. Because she’s the only thing that’s ever mattered, and he’s done pretending otherwise.
Their bond reignites under pressure, tangled in obsession, fear, and raw need. But when Rose's past catches up with her and secrets surface, she’s faced with a choice that could destroy them both. What she’s worth, who she belongs to, and what kind of future she can fight for all come into play.
As things unravel, they’re forced to confront who they’ve become. Rose learns to stop running and start choosing. Ash learns to hold without caging. Together, they fight to turn something dark and twisted into something real and lasting.
Rose grows from a survivor shaped by betrayal into a woman who owns her future. Ash transforms from a cold, obsessive protector into a partner capable of deep care and restraint. What begins as a brutal power struggle becomes something more, something neither of them expected.
A dark, steamy, emotionally charged romance with a possessive, morally gray hero and a resilient, guarded heroine in a second chance, arranged marriage, mafia setting, exploring obsession, control, trauma, survival, identity, loyalty, and redemption. It's about a woman reclaiming her strength while being consumed by a man who would destroy the world to protect her, and choosing a love that’s fierce, messy, and unbreakable.
The Elevator Pitch: A dangerously obsessed man finally claims the woman stolen from him, igniting a storm of passion, control, and unfinished history. What begins as a brutal power play twists into something deeper as secrets surface and loyalty is tested. Dark, steamy, and emotionally charged, their love refuses to be tamed.
January 5, 2026
A fun ride…
This one was a lot of fun with the suspense of whether our two main characters could outrun those who wanted them dead or worse. While we always knew the outcome, it was fun to read how they escaped a bad situation only to find a new threat. A few missteps like throwing in a Daddy-baby girl vibe that doesn’t go anywhere and a gratuitous spanking, also that doesn’t go anywhere. These were unnecessary and really did nothing to enhance the relationship or further the “plot.” Otherwise, some decent smut but mostly a fun run-chase-rescue story with likable characters. This is a fun, fast read. Don’t expect deep character development or a subtle storyline but expect to be entertained and you won’t be disappointed.
This one was a lot of fun with the suspense of whether our two main characters could outrun those who wanted them dead or worse. While we always knew the outcome, it was fun to read how they escaped a bad situation only to find a new threat. A few missteps like throwing in a Daddy-baby girl vibe that doesn’t go anywhere and a gratuitous spanking, also that doesn’t go anywhere. These were unnecessary and really did nothing to enhance the relationship or further the “plot.” Otherwise, some decent smut but mostly a fun run-chase-rescue story with likable characters. This is a fun, fast read. Don’t expect deep character development or a subtle storyline but expect to be entertained and you won’t be disappointed.
December 5, 2025
Weirdly good..
It's hard to write this book the writing and the story were pretty good but some of the things in the story were really ridiculous. They met for 3 months when he was 12 and she was 8. He became obsessed looking for her for 12 years. Saved her from a brothel where her dad sold her. He took her virginity in a room upstairs. Then he drug her out and didn't even give her a jacket or wrap her in a sheet. He really tried to take care of her and she kept running off. It got so tangled up with the dad and other family members it was hard to keep track of I just scroll to the end.
It's hard to write this book the writing and the story were pretty good but some of the things in the story were really ridiculous. They met for 3 months when he was 12 and she was 8. He became obsessed looking for her for 12 years. Saved her from a brothel where her dad sold her. He took her virginity in a room upstairs. Then he drug her out and didn't even give her a jacket or wrap her in a sheet. He really tried to take care of her and she kept running off. It got so tangled up with the dad and other family members it was hard to keep track of I just scroll to the end.
November 2, 2025
Promised To Him is my first read by this author. It's Ash and Rose's story. This couple has a past and even though they were very young, Ash remembers Rose well. And the place he sees her at for the first time after years apart leaves him seething. Rose is put in a horrid situation thanks her con artist dad. But as soon as Ash recognizes her he knows things are about to change for both of them. Their story is intense, gritty and dramatic. I can't wait to see what else this author has.
November 10, 2025
This dark mafia romance truly delivers on its premise, immersing the reader in a world where the rules are ruthless. I found the characters compelling, each with distinct personalities that made them memorable. The storyline progresses at a satisfying pace, keeping the tension high without feeling rushed. Overall, it was a captivating read that I would recommend to fans of the genre.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 27, 2025
voice of a poet
I loved the story and they words to describe the scenery and emotions. I just got tired of reading the word effervescence and reverence. Reverence was repeated at least 10 times. At least. It just took away from the scene cause I would just eye roll and sigh. Not every look should be with reverence. But overall I loved the book and am headed to read another by Vanya
I loved the story and they words to describe the scenery and emotions. I just got tired of reading the word effervescence and reverence. Reverence was repeated at least 10 times. At least. It just took away from the scene cause I would just eye roll and sigh. Not every look should be with reverence. But overall I loved the book and am headed to read another by Vanya
February 13, 2026
Promised to Him is a great dark Mafia romance! The story was fantastic, great plot with twists, intense, steamy and enjoyable to read. The characters were great as well, determined, strong and likable. I really enjoyed reading this romance and look forward to reading more!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2025
Ash and Rose share a past as children one he never forgot but when their paths cross again Ash takes Rose claiming her as his own butbwill she rebel at being in another cage? Well written engaging steamy desires drama action and more
November 5, 2025
I liked it
A cracking read - solid premise and I liked the characters. Super steamy but enough story to be interesting. A great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A cracking read - solid premise and I liked the characters. Super steamy but enough story to be interesting. A great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2025
This is the first book I've read written by Vanya Laurent; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
She has written a good stand-alone book. The story is about Rose & Ash; she was promised to him but keeps running away.
She has written a good stand-alone book. The story is about Rose & Ash; she was promised to him but keeps running away.
November 26, 2025
Ash knew Rose when they were children and years later when he found that her father had sold her he was determined to make her his. Can her convince Rose?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 27, 2025
Fate fulfilled
Ash and Rose were promised years ago to each other, but when he is at a meeting at a dubious place he sees her and things implode. There is danger, heat, chemistry, lies, deception, family and discipline in this gripping dtory!!
Ash and Rose were promised years ago to each other, but when he is at a meeting at a dubious place he sees her and things implode. There is danger, heat, chemistry, lies, deception, family and discipline in this gripping dtory!!
November 18, 2025
Promised to him was Victor and Rose’s story. It was a dark, intense read. I received an early copy. And voluntarily leaving this review.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews