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Crucible: A Dark Irish Mafia Romance
From USA Today Bestselling Author, Eve Newton comes a dark Irish mafia romance.
He’s the wreckage I was forced to marry.
I’m the discipline he never saw coming.
Ciara
I'm my father’s daughter—raised to be ruthless, controlled, and untouchable.
Sean O'Neill is the spare to his father’s heir, drowning in whiskey and reckless bets. Our fathers arranged this marriage to strengthen their alliance, but I won't chain myself to a man who can't stay sober. He's chaos where I'm control, destruction where I demand discipline.
I won't tolerate his addictions. I won't save him from himself.
I won't settle for the wreckage he's become.
Every boundary I set becomes a battle, but when his past comes to collect, I'm forced to choose. Either walk away clean or stand beside the man fighting to prove he's more than his demons.
In our world, love isn't salvation.
It's a crucible.
Crucible is a dark and twisted romance. Please read trigger warnings before reading, listed in the Preface.
Each book in the Savage Crown series is interconnected, but about a different couple and will end in a HEA.
Books in the Savage Crown
Carnage
Crucible
Chaos
Crossfire
He’s the wreckage I was forced to marry.
I’m the discipline he never saw coming.
Ciara
I'm my father’s daughter—raised to be ruthless, controlled, and untouchable.
Sean O'Neill is the spare to his father’s heir, drowning in whiskey and reckless bets. Our fathers arranged this marriage to strengthen their alliance, but I won't chain myself to a man who can't stay sober. He's chaos where I'm control, destruction where I demand discipline.
I won't tolerate his addictions. I won't save him from himself.
I won't settle for the wreckage he's become.
Every boundary I set becomes a battle, but when his past comes to collect, I'm forced to choose. Either walk away clean or stand beside the man fighting to prove he's more than his demons.
In our world, love isn't salvation.
It's a crucible.
Crucible is a dark and twisted romance. Please read trigger warnings before reading, listed in the Preface.
Each book in the Savage Crown series is interconnected, but about a different couple and will end in a HEA.
Books in the Savage Crown
Carnage
Crucible
Chaos
Crossfire
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 7, 2026
148 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Eve Newton
256 books864 followersEve is a USA Today Bestselling Author with a specialty for steamy romance with strong female leads.
She lives in the UK, with her husband and five kids, so finding the time to write is short, but definitely sweet. Eve has a number of series, both completed and on the go and hopes to release some new and exciting projects, both paranormal and contemporary in the future, so stay tuned!
Facebook: http://facebook.com/groups/sinfullyde...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorEve
Eve also writes under the name S.E. Traynor
She lives in the UK, with her husband and five kids, so finding the time to write is short, but definitely sweet. Eve has a number of series, both completed and on the go and hopes to release some new and exciting projects, both paranormal and contemporary in the future, so stay tuned!
Facebook: http://facebook.com/groups/sinfullyde...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorEve
Eve also writes under the name S.E. Traynor
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 7, 2026
Gritty, real and full of spice
Crucible is Sean and Ciara's story. They start out as strangers, they're still strangers when they're forced to get married and we see how they both deal with their new status while also dealing with the shoot that's hit the fan and all over them. This is a dark, gritty and beautifully written Irish mafia romance. Sean is the person the world has written off and Ciara is the person who the world thinks is useless.... Both statements are wrong. When they come together and fight together they make the world sit up and take notice. A gripping romance that feels real and genuine while still giving us the romance we crave, all the gore included. For lovers of dark romance, if you're looking for pearls and princesses - find another book
Crucible is Sean and Ciara's story. They start out as strangers, they're still strangers when they're forced to get married and we see how they both deal with their new status while also dealing with the shoot that's hit the fan and all over them. This is a dark, gritty and beautifully written Irish mafia romance. Sean is the person the world has written off and Ciara is the person who the world thinks is useless.... Both statements are wrong. When they come together and fight together they make the world sit up and take notice. A gripping romance that feels real and genuine while still giving us the romance we crave, all the gore included. For lovers of dark romance, if you're looking for pearls and princesses - find another book
January 6, 2026
Crucible opens by pulling us back into the world of Carnage through Sean, Liam’s younger brother, and this time we don’t just see his flaws, we understand them. His drinking and gambling aren’t just bad habits. They’re armor for someone who sees himself as disposable. The spare. The disappointment. Getting inside his head adds so much depth to a character who could’ve easily stayed in the background, and instead becomes someone you genuinely root for.
Then there’s Ciara, and she’s a completely different kind of strength. Where Sean is reckless, she is disciplined to the point of rigidity. Analytical, controlled, and painfully aware of the role she’s been assigned, she accepts her fate not because she wants to, but because she believes duty is her only option. Her line about discipline being her armor perfectly sums her up.
What really makes Crucible work is how these two reflect each other. Sean is being controlled by his brother. Ciara is controlling every other aspect of her life because she has no control over the big decisions. They’re opposites on the surface, but mirrors underneath, both shaped by expectations that tell them they are expendable. Watching them collide, clash, and slowly become better versions of themselves together is one of the most satisfying parts of the book.
This is a classic dark Irish mafia setup done right, with high stakes, brutal family dynamics, and power plays that feel earned instead of overdone. The arranged marriage trope adds tension from the start, but what elevates it is how much agency Ciara still manages to claim within a system designed to limit her. She doesn’t take nonsense from anyone, and that backbone makes every interaction sharper and more compelling.
Overall, Crucible is a fast, addictive read that digs deeper than you expect. It’s not just about crime and chaos. It’s about identity, duty, and what happens when two people who see themselves as expendable finally realize they’re anything but. This was an incredibly engaging read that completely pulled me in, and it’s a powerful addition to this world.
Then there’s Ciara, and she’s a completely different kind of strength. Where Sean is reckless, she is disciplined to the point of rigidity. Analytical, controlled, and painfully aware of the role she’s been assigned, she accepts her fate not because she wants to, but because she believes duty is her only option. Her line about discipline being her armor perfectly sums her up.
What really makes Crucible work is how these two reflect each other. Sean is being controlled by his brother. Ciara is controlling every other aspect of her life because she has no control over the big decisions. They’re opposites on the surface, but mirrors underneath, both shaped by expectations that tell them they are expendable. Watching them collide, clash, and slowly become better versions of themselves together is one of the most satisfying parts of the book.
This is a classic dark Irish mafia setup done right, with high stakes, brutal family dynamics, and power plays that feel earned instead of overdone. The arranged marriage trope adds tension from the start, but what elevates it is how much agency Ciara still manages to claim within a system designed to limit her. She doesn’t take nonsense from anyone, and that backbone makes every interaction sharper and more compelling.
Overall, Crucible is a fast, addictive read that digs deeper than you expect. It’s not just about crime and chaos. It’s about identity, duty, and what happens when two people who see themselves as expendable finally realize they’re anything but. This was an incredibly engaging read that completely pulled me in, and it’s a powerful addition to this world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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February 2, 2026Thoughts:
1. I didn't like Sean's dad, Connor, in the first book. Still don't and it's turning to loathing.
2. I did like Liam, Sean's brother, in the forst book. I'm not feeling that as much here with how he treats Sean.
3. And this goes along with the previous two -- Is Sean the way he is because of how they've always treated him -- a throwaway, less important, a nuisance, the spare-- or do they treat him that way because of how he behaves with the drinking, gambling, etc. It's a Catch-22 and a what came first situation.
4. Connor redeemed himself a smidgen toward the end.
5. Disappointed that Siobhan, Liam's wife from book one, never made an appearance nor was she ever mentioned. A fact I also find as weird.
1. I didn't like Sean's dad, Connor, in the first book. Still don't and it's turning to loathing.
2. I did like Liam, Sean's brother, in the forst book. I'm not feeling that as much here with how he treats Sean.
3. And this goes along with the previous two -- Is Sean the way he is because of how they've always treated him -- a throwaway, less important, a nuisance, the spare-- or do they treat him that way because of how he behaves with the drinking, gambling, etc. It's a Catch-22 and a what came first situation.
4. Connor redeemed himself a smidgen toward the end.
5. Disappointed that Siobhan, Liam's wife from book one, never made an appearance nor was she ever mentioned. A fact I also find as weird.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2026
Spicy, real, Raw,
This is Sean and Ciara's story. This is pure Irish Mafia dark romance at its best. The two of tgem are not what they appear and it takes getting to know them to understand how freaking perfect they are.
This is a marriage of convenience. But is it? There are so many twists in this story I never could predict where we were headed, plus I loved how Ciara was not just a pretty little princess, she had grit and was not going to let ANYONE walk all over her.
Sean, well he took a while to grow on me but he did and I love him now! This is totally worth a read and then a reread!
This is Sean and Ciara's story. This is pure Irish Mafia dark romance at its best. The two of tgem are not what they appear and it takes getting to know them to understand how freaking perfect they are.
This is a marriage of convenience. But is it? There are so many twists in this story I never could predict where we were headed, plus I loved how Ciara was not just a pretty little princess, she had grit and was not going to let ANYONE walk all over her.
Sean, well he took a while to grow on me but he did and I love him now! This is totally worth a read and then a reread!
January 7, 2026
Spicy, dark, and yummy!!
This story follows our lovely couple Sean and Ciara. When they are forced to marry, they have to decide how they will make that work.
The plot, the spice, the darkness all of these wonderful themes rolled into one book makes for the ultimate read.
We watch as Sean and Ciara find their groove with each other, but are they really enemies as much as they thought? Or are they truly perfect for one another and just needed the shove to make the jump?
Well take a seat and dive on in and you will find out.
This story follows our lovely couple Sean and Ciara. When they are forced to marry, they have to decide how they will make that work.
The plot, the spice, the darkness all of these wonderful themes rolled into one book makes for the ultimate read.
We watch as Sean and Ciara find their groove with each other, but are they really enemies as much as they thought? Or are they truly perfect for one another and just needed the shove to make the jump?
Well take a seat and dive on in and you will find out.
January 7, 2026
Family duty within the Irish Mafia forces both Ciara & Sean into a marriage of convenience. Even though it seems that Ciara was getting the thin edge of wedge by marrying a drinker and a gambler. Only I loved that Ciara wasn't a pushover within this world either especially when they were both underestimated but together they definitely showed what they were capable of in this book.
Action packed with plenty of great plot twists and lots of steamy scenarios. Just an outstanding read.
Action packed with plenty of great plot twists and lots of steamy scenarios. Just an outstanding read.
January 7, 2026
I liked this more than I thought I would. It took me awhile to warm up to Sean, but as the story progressed, I realized that his real self was buried under so much trauma, that it took Ciara to dig it out. She is a FMC I love to read; witty, gritty, take charge and soft for the ones who matter. Their story is explosive, spicy, dramtic at times, and perfect for them. Looking forward to the next book!
January 9, 2026
I absolutely loved reading Ciara and Sean’s story. Strangers forced to get married. That’s what drew me right into the story. Also with it being an Irish Mafia book I was then more obsessed. I actually really enjoyed these characters. Ciara was absolutely amazing. Sean grew on me.Storyline was a page turner. One of the best mafia/ dark romance stories I have read. I’m really looking forward to the next couple of books in series. Really enjoyed reading this one. Definitely recommend
January 10, 2026
From page one this book was a hit! I couldn't put it down and now I'm sad it is over. Sean and Ciara are the best MF couple I have ever read in a Mafia (sorry Liam) romance. Jeez Louis Batman this couple had me on my toes from page one. The way the author wrote about his habits and how he slowly got over them was a chef's kiss! Sean was everything. I need this book in my collection ASAP!! If I could give this more than stars I would!! Highly recommend!
January 11, 2026
5⭐️read for me of 2026
This book had me at Irish stew😭
The way this book was such a surprise , The characters are so flawed and start out as an arranged marriage , enemies to lovers and they come to work as a unit and the way they took care of each other 🥹together they were 🔥 . This book had me in a chokehold I wasn’t expecting the storyline to be so action packed and intense . This was a true Mafia Romance done the right way and I loved every minute of it 👩🏼🍳💋
This book had me at Irish stew😭
The way this book was such a surprise , The characters are so flawed and start out as an arranged marriage , enemies to lovers and they come to work as a unit and the way they took care of each other 🥹together they were 🔥 . This book had me in a chokehold I wasn’t expecting the storyline to be so action packed and intense . This was a true Mafia Romance done the right way and I loved every minute of it 👩🏼🍳💋
January 23, 2026
Fantastic mafia romance and I'm here for it. I can picture the world so well as the writing paints this world so clear. It is a marriage between nearly strangers. They only know of eachothers existence and are now thrown together. I love how the world sees them as useless but that is a misconception. They are not useless but prove the world that together they are a force to be reckoned with. Love the dark vibes, love mafia and I need more from this author for sure.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First ai have to say that I love that each book is connected but about different people. I enjoy seeing the developments that each couple makes and that their is an interconnected plot. Ciara and Seans story had me hooked. I love how strong Ciara is and the connection that develops between her and Sean. And mafia books are some of my favorite.
January 7, 2026
Crucible
This is Sean and Ciara story, and I admit my first impression of Sean was not a good one. Party boy, and all that, but as we get to know what's under the mask he shows the world? You can't help but root for him. And Ciara? She's just amazing.....never overlook someone who has been told they are not worthy, because they will show you what they are made of.
This is Sean and Ciara story, and I admit my first impression of Sean was not a good one. Party boy, and all that, but as we get to know what's under the mask he shows the world? You can't help but root for him. And Ciara? She's just amazing.....never overlook someone who has been told they are not worthy, because they will show you what they are made of.
January 8, 2026
Sean, the alcoholic second son of an Irish mafia Don. Ciara, the daughter of a rival Irish mafia Don, whose purpose is to be married off in order to solidify an alliance.
Even though they have an arranged marriage, Sean realizes that love is thicker than blood and alcohol.
Crucible is fast paced, spicy, dual POV.
Even though they have an arranged marriage, Sean realizes that love is thicker than blood and alcohol.
Crucible is fast paced, spicy, dual POV.
January 11, 2026
Put your drink down...and read this book!
Sean-mafia boss son that has demons....he drinks to forget them and gambles his family money away.
Ciara- mafia princess that has just been thrust into Sean's life whether he likes it or not.
The two opposites are now together and you will love the chemistry between them. I could not put this book down once I started reading it!
Sean-mafia boss son that has demons....he drinks to forget them and gambles his family money away.
Ciara- mafia princess that has just been thrust into Sean's life whether he likes it or not.
The two opposites are now together and you will love the chemistry between them. I could not put this book down once I started reading it!
February 18, 2026
loving this series!!!
I am eating it up! I cannot put these down! Ciara and Sean were everything mafia book characters need to be! The raw and sexy and strength poor through every page! It’s so good to see, in both books, the FMC be such a bad ass! The characters are straight forward and upfront. It’s refreshing!
I am eating it up! I cannot put these down! Ciara and Sean were everything mafia book characters need to be! The raw and sexy and strength poor through every page! It’s so good to see, in both books, the FMC be such a bad ass! The characters are straight forward and upfront. It’s refreshing!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did not want to like Sean… but omg. Put him and Ciara together and they are explosive. She is a “ProperPrincess” who navigates the Mafia world like a bad@ss! This book is high in action, banter and steam. I could not get enough!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark, gritty, and emotionally charged, blending romance and suspense. There is no shying away from the ugliness of the mafia world. There is a balance to the darkness with a connection that feels earned despite it being arranged. Looking forward to the next book in this series!
January 13, 2026
This pulls us into Sean and Ciara's marriage of convenience mafia romance. Both characters were fun to read about. I loved Ciara sass and take no ___ attitude. Their story is raw, potent and gritty.
January 27, 2026
Oh yes, please! This is fabulous—it’s got the HEA I needed and more, set in the same world with other characters I loved. I really enjoyed our main duo; it wasn’t an easy journey, but it was absolutely delicious! A must-read!
February 2, 2026
Started out strong. Ciara was a strong h and Sean was a flawed but redeemable H. Wished it had spent more time focusing on their relationship development but the mafia drama took over before the halfway mark and the book became less interesting.
January 17, 2026
unusual for a Mafia book/strong>
The book was well written edited good. It just wasn't my kind of Mafia book. The MFC is stronger than the MMC. It was a good story just not for me.
The book was well written edited good. It just wasn't my kind of Mafia book. The MFC is stronger than the MMC. It was a good story just not for me.
January 23, 2026
The first 5 ⭐️ read of 2026 for me! This book is everything I salivate for in a romance, and Eve Newton writes it so good I couldn’t put it down! Please give this one a try, you won’t regret it!
January 14, 2026
I do love a good Irish Mafia story, and this is definitely that. We meet Sean, Liam’s brother, who uses whisky and gambling as a way to forget he’s the ‘spare’. A disappointment to his family. When he is told he has to marry Ciara, the daughter of another mafia head and the total opposite of Sean, all bets are off as to how long he’ll be able to carry on his ‘lifestyle’. Ciara takes nonsense from no one.
A total ‘can’t put this book down’ read.
A total ‘can’t put this book down’ read.
March 14, 2026
I have read so many meh stories lately that this one snuck up on me. I loved it. I debated between a 4 and a 5 because I thought the timeline was too rushed. Then I decided 'time' really doesn't matter to an alcoholic who is white-knuckling, barely holding on, to a week of sobriety as he fights to keep himself and his new wife alive.
I really like these characters, the action, the dialogue, not OTT sex. It is a beautifully written love story. The balance is perfect. Sean is known as the family disappointment. Ciara has had to be strong to survive, and she's tired. So they save themselves.
This author has published 245 books. I don't care for the themes of most of the others, but I will read the rest of this series.
I really like these characters, the action, the dialogue, not OTT sex. It is a beautifully written love story. The balance is perfect. Sean is known as the family disappointment. Ciara has had to be strong to survive, and she's tired. So they save themselves.
This author has published 245 books. I don't care for the themes of most of the others, but I will read the rest of this series.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews