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The Sullivan Mafia #1
Shattered Vows
CIARA
He’s the monster responsible for my father’s death.
Soon, he’ll be my husband.
Marrying Ronan Sullivan is the last thing I want,
but it’s the only way my family’s name will survive.
I go into this marriage with one
Making Ronan pay for what he did.
Only I never expected to fall in love with him.
RONAN
She thinks she knows the truth,
But what she doesn’t realize is everything I did was for her.
Not that it matters.
This marriage is nothing but a business arrangement.
It’s easier if emotions are left out of it.
It’s easier if she hates me.
Because my focus needs to be on the mafia, not her.
Someone I know and trust is trying to destroy me.
The last thing I need right now her distracting me.
Shattered Vows is Book 1 of The Sullivan Mafia Series, featuring an arranged marriage, enemies to lovers tension, revenge, and dangerous obsession. Ronan and Ciara’s story continues and concludes in Avenged Vows.
He’s the monster responsible for my father’s death.
Soon, he’ll be my husband.
Marrying Ronan Sullivan is the last thing I want,
but it’s the only way my family’s name will survive.
I go into this marriage with one
Making Ronan pay for what he did.
Only I never expected to fall in love with him.
RONAN
She thinks she knows the truth,
But what she doesn’t realize is everything I did was for her.
Not that it matters.
This marriage is nothing but a business arrangement.
It’s easier if emotions are left out of it.
It’s easier if she hates me.
Because my focus needs to be on the mafia, not her.
Someone I know and trust is trying to destroy me.
The last thing I need right now her distracting me.
Shattered Vows is Book 1 of The Sullivan Mafia Series, featuring an arranged marriage, enemies to lovers tension, revenge, and dangerous obsession. Ronan and Ciara’s story continues and concludes in Avenged Vows.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 23, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
March 19, 2026
Part 1/2
2,5 🤔🤔s
Mixed feelings about this part.
2,5 🤔🤔s
Mixed feelings about this part.
Read
April 29, 2026This is not a well written series but sometimes you need a trash read to come back to heavier books
January 28, 2026
“Shattered Vows” is the first book in “The Sullivan Mafia Series” and yes, it ends on a cliffhanger. The story features an arranged marriage, enemies to lovers tension, revenge, and dangerous obsession. Ronan Sullivan has just taken over as head of the Sullivan Irish Mob after his father was recently assassinated. Ciara McCarthy is the daughter of the deceased head of the McCarthy Family, that is now disgraced. “The McCarthy name was once a force to be reckoned with, a reference. Now, it is a curse.” Now it is just herself and her brother Callum that are left. The life her father worked so hard to build for them has crumbled before their very eyes. The Sullivans dismantled her family and its legacy piece by piece until there was nothing left.
Ronan Sullivan, the devil himself! “Dressed in all black, Ronan should blend into the crowd of New York’s mafia elite, but instead, he draws the attention of the entire room. His powerful, broad frame cuts a path through the adoring crowd, his tailored suit looking like it might burst under the swell of his muscles with each step.”
Ciara is the only woman in a long time that has stirred something inside him. Her honesty is also refreshing, but nothing will come of it as she hates him and his family. With the death of his father, they need to show strength, not weakness. They need something that makes a statement as well as solidifies their position at the top of the food chain. An alliance by marriage….”I’m talking about Ciara McCarthy.” Is this just about power or is it about fulfilling his father’s last wish? In less than a week, they are to married, husband and wife. “Don’t flatter yourself. This isn’t a marriage. It’s a hostile takeover.” What she wants is irrelevant, this marriage is happening.
Ronan and Ciara’s relationship starts as a business deal and very quickly develops into more. I love these two characters - things heat up very quickly. The story is full of passion, intrigue, betrayal, vengeance, power, control, twists and turns around every corner. There is never a dull moment - you will be hooked! The book goes through moments of the thoughts or possibilities that it could happen to, to extreme violence to the most beautiful tender moments! I’m very happily hooked! I did not want it to end! From page to page, chapter to chapter, I could not put it down - you will metaphorically be on the edge of your chair! Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
Ronan Sullivan, the devil himself! “Dressed in all black, Ronan should blend into the crowd of New York’s mafia elite, but instead, he draws the attention of the entire room. His powerful, broad frame cuts a path through the adoring crowd, his tailored suit looking like it might burst under the swell of his muscles with each step.”
Ciara is the only woman in a long time that has stirred something inside him. Her honesty is also refreshing, but nothing will come of it as she hates him and his family. With the death of his father, they need to show strength, not weakness. They need something that makes a statement as well as solidifies their position at the top of the food chain. An alliance by marriage….”I’m talking about Ciara McCarthy.” Is this just about power or is it about fulfilling his father’s last wish? In less than a week, they are to married, husband and wife. “Don’t flatter yourself. This isn’t a marriage. It’s a hostile takeover.” What she wants is irrelevant, this marriage is happening.
Ronan and Ciara’s relationship starts as a business deal and very quickly develops into more. I love these two characters - things heat up very quickly. The story is full of passion, intrigue, betrayal, vengeance, power, control, twists and turns around every corner. There is never a dull moment - you will be hooked! The book goes through moments of the thoughts or possibilities that it could happen to, to extreme violence to the most beautiful tender moments! I’m very happily hooked! I did not want it to end! From page to page, chapter to chapter, I could not put it down - you will metaphorically be on the edge of your chair! Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
August 6, 2026
Cliffhanger
Augh.. a cliffhanger. Just when it was starting to get some pace. Slow at first. These two have a hate/like relationship. Plenty of family drama and held back feelings on both sides. Lies and deceit galore! Off to read what happens next.
Augh.. a cliffhanger. Just when it was starting to get some pace. Slow at first. These two have a hate/like relationship. Plenty of family drama and held back feelings on both sides. Lies and deceit galore! Off to read what happens next.
March 1, 2026
I’ll be back for a review. Had to jump right into book 2 since it left me on a cliffhanger.
3.8⭐️
4🌶️
3.8⭐️
4🌶️
April 8, 2026
Cliffhanger!
April 19, 2026
Cliffhanger must purchase another book to finish not for me
Great story however I loathe having to buy another book to finish the story. Just let me pay more for a book with more pages. Not sure why I did not see this was a series before purchasing or I would have passed on it like I do others if it takes 2 books my experience the story could have be told in one book but get drawn out
Great story however I loathe having to buy another book to finish the story. Just let me pay more for a book with more pages. Not sure why I did not see this was a series before purchasing or I would have passed on it like I do others if it takes 2 books my experience the story could have be told in one book but get drawn out
March 12, 2026
Meh. Everyone is too in their heads. Apparently there is great chemistry, according to the book, but I didn’t feel it. DNF 40%
July 25, 2026
A Dark, Addictive Mafia Romance That Left Me Desperate for More
Shattered Vows is the explosive first installment in The Sullivan Mafia Series, and from the very first page it had me completely captivated. Packed with an arranged marriage, enemies-to-lovers tension, revenge, dangerous obsession, family loyalty, shocking betrayals, and enough suspense to keep you glued to the pages, this is everything I love in a mafia romance. Be warned though—it ends on a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that rolls directly into Avenged Vows, so you'll definitely want the next book ready.
After the assassination of his father, Ronan Sullivan steps into the role of Don of the powerful Sullivan Irish Mafia. Ruthless, calculating, and feared by everyone around him, Ronan is determined to protect his family's empire while hunting down the people responsible for his father's murder. He's cold-blooded, commanding, morally grey, and absolutely unforgettable.
On the opposite side stands Ciara McCarthy, the daughter of the once-powerful McCarthy family whose empire has been completely destroyed. With only her brother Callum left, the McCarthy name has gone from one of fear and respect to one associated with disgrace and ruin. Ciara believes Ronan and the Sullivan family are responsible for everything she's lost—including her father's death—and marrying him is the last thing she ever wants.
But survival leaves her with no choice.
What begins as a strategic alliance between two rival families quickly becomes far more complicated. Ronan needs to project strength after his father's death, and marrying the last McCarthy is the perfect political move to secure his position at the top of New York's criminal underworld. Ciara sees the marriage as nothing more than a prison—and an opportunity for revenge.
"Don't flatter yourself. This isn't a marriage. It's a hostile takeover."
Despite their hatred, the chemistry between Ronan and Ciara is impossible to ignore. Every confrontation crackles with tension, every argument fuels an even stronger attraction, and the emotional push-and-pull between them is addictive. Their banter is sharp, their stubbornness equally matched, and watching two people determined to hate each other slowly begin to trust one another made this story impossible to put down.
Ciara is an incredible heroine. She's intelligent, fiercely independent, fiery, and refuses to be intimidated, even by one of the most dangerous men in the city. Her background in cybersecurity gives her an important role in uncovering the growing conspiracy surrounding both families, even if Ronan is reluctant to trust her with his secrets.
As layers of deception begin to unravel, it becomes clear that neither Ronan nor Ciara knows the full truth behind their fathers' murders. The deeper they investigate, the more dangerous everything becomes. Lies, betrayals, hidden enemies, shocking revelations, bloodshed, family secrets, and unexpected alliances create a story filled with constant twists that kept me second-guessing everyone.
The pacing is phenomenal. There isn't a single dull moment. Every chapter ends with another revelation or cliffhanger that made it impossible to stop reading "just one more chapter." Before I knew it, I had devoured the book in one sitting.
The romance is equally compelling. Although their relationship begins as nothing more than a political arrangement, the emotional connection builds naturally beneath all the anger and resentment. The chemistry between Ronan and Ciara absolutely sizzles, and their explosive dynamic perfectly balances the action-packed mafia storyline. Beneath Ronan's ruthless exterior are surprisingly tender moments that make him impossible not to fall for.
This book delivers everything fans of dark mafia romance could ask for: arranged marriage, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, hate-to-love, revenge, morally grey characters, protective alpha hero, possessiveness, power struggles, suspense, family drama, murder, betrayal, shocking twists, emotional vulnerability, and heart-racing romance. It's dark, fast-paced, gripping, and intensely addictive from beginning to end.
The final chapters completely blindsided me. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, the story pulled the rug out from under me with one breathtaking revelation after another before ending on a cliffhanger that left me desperately needing Avenged Vows immediately.
If you're a fan of intense mafia romances filled with unforgettable characters, sizzling chemistry, dangerous secrets, and nonstop twists, then Shattered Vows is one you absolutely cannot miss. It ticked every single box for me and easily earned a well-deserved five stars. I cannot wait to continue Ronan and Ciara's story.
Now excuse me while I go read book two
Shattered Vows is the explosive first installment in The Sullivan Mafia Series, and from the very first page it had me completely captivated. Packed with an arranged marriage, enemies-to-lovers tension, revenge, dangerous obsession, family loyalty, shocking betrayals, and enough suspense to keep you glued to the pages, this is everything I love in a mafia romance. Be warned though—it ends on a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that rolls directly into Avenged Vows, so you'll definitely want the next book ready.
After the assassination of his father, Ronan Sullivan steps into the role of Don of the powerful Sullivan Irish Mafia. Ruthless, calculating, and feared by everyone around him, Ronan is determined to protect his family's empire while hunting down the people responsible for his father's murder. He's cold-blooded, commanding, morally grey, and absolutely unforgettable.
On the opposite side stands Ciara McCarthy, the daughter of the once-powerful McCarthy family whose empire has been completely destroyed. With only her brother Callum left, the McCarthy name has gone from one of fear and respect to one associated with disgrace and ruin. Ciara believes Ronan and the Sullivan family are responsible for everything she's lost—including her father's death—and marrying him is the last thing she ever wants.
But survival leaves her with no choice.
What begins as a strategic alliance between two rival families quickly becomes far more complicated. Ronan needs to project strength after his father's death, and marrying the last McCarthy is the perfect political move to secure his position at the top of New York's criminal underworld. Ciara sees the marriage as nothing more than a prison—and an opportunity for revenge.
"Don't flatter yourself. This isn't a marriage. It's a hostile takeover."
Despite their hatred, the chemistry between Ronan and Ciara is impossible to ignore. Every confrontation crackles with tension, every argument fuels an even stronger attraction, and the emotional push-and-pull between them is addictive. Their banter is sharp, their stubbornness equally matched, and watching two people determined to hate each other slowly begin to trust one another made this story impossible to put down.
Ciara is an incredible heroine. She's intelligent, fiercely independent, fiery, and refuses to be intimidated, even by one of the most dangerous men in the city. Her background in cybersecurity gives her an important role in uncovering the growing conspiracy surrounding both families, even if Ronan is reluctant to trust her with his secrets.
As layers of deception begin to unravel, it becomes clear that neither Ronan nor Ciara knows the full truth behind their fathers' murders. The deeper they investigate, the more dangerous everything becomes. Lies, betrayals, hidden enemies, shocking revelations, bloodshed, family secrets, and unexpected alliances create a story filled with constant twists that kept me second-guessing everyone.
The pacing is phenomenal. There isn't a single dull moment. Every chapter ends with another revelation or cliffhanger that made it impossible to stop reading "just one more chapter." Before I knew it, I had devoured the book in one sitting.
The romance is equally compelling. Although their relationship begins as nothing more than a political arrangement, the emotional connection builds naturally beneath all the anger and resentment. The chemistry between Ronan and Ciara absolutely sizzles, and their explosive dynamic perfectly balances the action-packed mafia storyline. Beneath Ronan's ruthless exterior are surprisingly tender moments that make him impossible not to fall for.
This book delivers everything fans of dark mafia romance could ask for: arranged marriage, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, hate-to-love, revenge, morally grey characters, protective alpha hero, possessiveness, power struggles, suspense, family drama, murder, betrayal, shocking twists, emotional vulnerability, and heart-racing romance. It's dark, fast-paced, gripping, and intensely addictive from beginning to end.
The final chapters completely blindsided me. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, the story pulled the rug out from under me with one breathtaking revelation after another before ending on a cliffhanger that left me desperately needing Avenged Vows immediately.
If you're a fan of intense mafia romances filled with unforgettable characters, sizzling chemistry, dangerous secrets, and nonstop twists, then Shattered Vows is one you absolutely cannot miss. It ticked every single box for me and easily earned a well-deserved five stars. I cannot wait to continue Ronan and Ciara's story.
Now excuse me while I go read book two
February 2, 2026
Shattered Vows is book one of The Sullivan Mafia Series, featuring an arranged marriage, enemies to lovers tension, revenge, and dangerous obsession. This is Ronan and Ciara’s story which end on a mind-blowingcliffhanger. It continues and concludes in Avenged Vows. Simply a wonderful story that you don't want to miss. This story is thrilling and had me caught up from the beginning with all the drama until the end. I love a good mafia romance and this another one to add to my collection. It hit all the boxes, murder, revenge, alliance, plot twists, and so much steamy tension it sizzles. Utter Perfection. A fast paced, dark. twisted and gripping story. Immerse yourself in this tantalizing rollercoaster ride filled with heart-stopping moments, non-stop twists and turns, high-octane adventures, panty-melting passion and heat.
Follow along in this spicy mafia romance, where Ciara marries her father's killer for family survival, but with a plan of revenge against her husband Ronan Sullivan while facing unexpected feelings. Ciara McCarthy was forced into a marriage with a man, Ronan Sullivan who hates and believes is responsible for the murder of her in order to save her family's name that is in ruin. Despite of her dislike and unwillingness her brother as arranged the marriage between her and Ronan following the death of his father in order to form an alliance which would strengthen both families. She believes that he's monster and is responsible for the downfall of her family.
Marrying him was the last thing that he wanted but it's the only way that her family's name as a chance of surviving. She thinks that she knows the truth about what happened to her father but the truth is she as no idea and everything is not what it appears to be. Ronan knows the truth but he's not going to tell her. In fact he prefers her staying mad at him because his focus needs to be on the mafia and not her. It's easier if she continues to hate him. He's in the fight of his life to keep his empire in tact, because someone who he knows and trust is trying to destroy him. So the last thing he needs right now is her distracting him. Ronan Sullivan is new the Don of the Sullivan family following the assassination of his father. And he wants revenge and will stop at anything to get the truth. Ronan is ruthless, cold-blooded, dangerous, powerful and relentless. He is driven by revenge for the murder of his father. Ronan and Ciara hates each and doesn't trust other.
But they both of something in common their father's was murdered; and if they can put their hate for each other aside and work together they might be able to figure out who's responsible for these murder. Ciara has a IT background in cybersecurity that can be helpful for him to get the some answers, but he's not willing to let her access the Sullivan computer or records. The more than they feud with each other is more their attraction grows for each other. But they continue to fight against it then have angry sex after their fights which is smoking hot and naughty.
Ronan likes to get a rise out of Ciara and knows what buttons to push. But once these two put their differences aside and decides to start trusting each other things starts to revealed that rocks both their families. A lot was revealed as they worked together some treachery, murder, bloodshed, betrayals, drama, lies, deception, secrets galore, suspense, surprises, and tension.
These two were a formidable team together. Ciara is sassy, fiery, defiant, challenging and beautiful. This is a enemies-to-lovers romance, hate-to-love vibes story, arranged marriage romance, forced marriage romance, forced proximity romance, marriage-started-with-a-contract romance, he-falls-first romance, dark mafia romance, protective alpha hero romance, morally-grey antihero romance, billionaire romance, contemporary romance, organize crime story, touch-her-and-die romance, romantic suspense story, slow burn romance, with possessiveness, power and control, obsession, consensual intense rough sex, dominance, submission, dirty talking, revelations, survival, resilience, push and pull, witty banter, humor, laugh-out-loud-moments, and more.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Follow along in this spicy mafia romance, where Ciara marries her father's killer for family survival, but with a plan of revenge against her husband Ronan Sullivan while facing unexpected feelings. Ciara McCarthy was forced into a marriage with a man, Ronan Sullivan who hates and believes is responsible for the murder of her in order to save her family's name that is in ruin. Despite of her dislike and unwillingness her brother as arranged the marriage between her and Ronan following the death of his father in order to form an alliance which would strengthen both families. She believes that he's monster and is responsible for the downfall of her family.
Marrying him was the last thing that he wanted but it's the only way that her family's name as a chance of surviving. She thinks that she knows the truth about what happened to her father but the truth is she as no idea and everything is not what it appears to be. Ronan knows the truth but he's not going to tell her. In fact he prefers her staying mad at him because his focus needs to be on the mafia and not her. It's easier if she continues to hate him. He's in the fight of his life to keep his empire in tact, because someone who he knows and trust is trying to destroy him. So the last thing he needs right now is her distracting him. Ronan Sullivan is new the Don of the Sullivan family following the assassination of his father. And he wants revenge and will stop at anything to get the truth. Ronan is ruthless, cold-blooded, dangerous, powerful and relentless. He is driven by revenge for the murder of his father. Ronan and Ciara hates each and doesn't trust other.
But they both of something in common their father's was murdered; and if they can put their hate for each other aside and work together they might be able to figure out who's responsible for these murder. Ciara has a IT background in cybersecurity that can be helpful for him to get the some answers, but he's not willing to let her access the Sullivan computer or records. The more than they feud with each other is more their attraction grows for each other. But they continue to fight against it then have angry sex after their fights which is smoking hot and naughty.
Ronan likes to get a rise out of Ciara and knows what buttons to push. But once these two put their differences aside and decides to start trusting each other things starts to revealed that rocks both their families. A lot was revealed as they worked together some treachery, murder, bloodshed, betrayals, drama, lies, deception, secrets galore, suspense, surprises, and tension.
These two were a formidable team together. Ciara is sassy, fiery, defiant, challenging and beautiful. This is a enemies-to-lovers romance, hate-to-love vibes story, arranged marriage romance, forced marriage romance, forced proximity romance, marriage-started-with-a-contract romance, he-falls-first romance, dark mafia romance, protective alpha hero romance, morally-grey antihero romance, billionaire romance, contemporary romance, organize crime story, touch-her-and-die romance, romantic suspense story, slow burn romance, with possessiveness, power and control, obsession, consensual intense rough sex, dominance, submission, dirty talking, revelations, survival, resilience, push and pull, witty banter, humor, laugh-out-loud-moments, and more.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2026
Book: Shattered Vows
Author: Kira Cole
Series:Sullivan Mafia Series, Book 1
Length: 368 Pages
Rating: 4 Stars
Narrator: James Cassidy & Heather Firth
Devices Used: iPhone, audiobook & ebook
Shattered Vows is the first book in the Sullivan Mafia series. This features Ronan Sullivan who is the gorgeous, cold-hearted, ruthless heir to The Sullivan mafia fortune. The FMC is Ciara MacCarthy who is the mafia princess from a penniless, ruined, mafia family. She blames the Sullivan family for destroying her father’s empire and his death where he killed himself. Except at this event The Sullivan Don is shot in the head and Ronan is now the leader of the family’s
Ciara and her best friend Nila are attending this event with all the powerful mafia families attending. Now she has no idea that Ronan Sullivan wants Ciara, even his father wants them to wed. This surprises especially since they know all the ruthless things The McCarthy leader was into. He took his own life because all his dirty little secrets were about to be revealed.
Ronan keeps this from Ciara knowing it would break her heart. Ciara has rose colored glasses when it comes to her father. She has no idea the horrible man he truly was! As knows the truth and the horrible crimes he committed.
The McCarthy’s are near poverty and Ciara's brother Callum cuts a deal with the family. He is the only family she has left and feels so betrayed being sold to the highest bidder with an arranged marriage between Ronan and her. She feels so betrayed by her own brother and has so much guilt being attracted to the one man she hates.
She decides she is going to find evidence and destroy Ronan Sullivan! He also thinks she is just going to be a trophy wife and use her in bed.,Except she soon becomes so much more. Ciara soon becomes his whole reason for breathing and becomes his obsession. He has never felt this way about any woman and he is also consumed with jealousy of another man who even looks in her direction. except he hates liars. The one thing Ronan won’t tolerate is liars and if he finds out age has betrayed her he will definitely obliterate his new wife!
Please check all the triggers as there is murder, gore, death and graphic BDSM scenes with impact play with pleasure and pain. Please read responsibly.
Enemies to Lovers✔️
Mafia Romance✔️
Grumpy Brothers✔️
Touch Her and Die✔️
Dual POV✔️
Morally Grey MMC✔️
Spice✔️
Forced Marriage✔️
Besties✔️
Found Family✔️
Audiobook✔️
Ebook✔️
Murder✔️
Who Done It✔️
Suicide✔️
Death✔️
Marriage✔️
Author: Kira Cole
Series:Sullivan Mafia Series, Book 1
Length: 368 Pages
Rating: 4 Stars
Narrator: James Cassidy & Heather Firth
Devices Used: iPhone, audiobook & ebook
Shattered Vows is the first book in the Sullivan Mafia series. This features Ronan Sullivan who is the gorgeous, cold-hearted, ruthless heir to The Sullivan mafia fortune. The FMC is Ciara MacCarthy who is the mafia princess from a penniless, ruined, mafia family. She blames the Sullivan family for destroying her father’s empire and his death where he killed himself. Except at this event The Sullivan Don is shot in the head and Ronan is now the leader of the family’s
Ciara and her best friend Nila are attending this event with all the powerful mafia families attending. Now she has no idea that Ronan Sullivan wants Ciara, even his father wants them to wed. This surprises especially since they know all the ruthless things The McCarthy leader was into. He took his own life because all his dirty little secrets were about to be revealed.
Ronan keeps this from Ciara knowing it would break her heart. Ciara has rose colored glasses when it comes to her father. She has no idea the horrible man he truly was! As knows the truth and the horrible crimes he committed.
The McCarthy’s are near poverty and Ciara's brother Callum cuts a deal with the family. He is the only family she has left and feels so betrayed being sold to the highest bidder with an arranged marriage between Ronan and her. She feels so betrayed by her own brother and has so much guilt being attracted to the one man she hates.
She decides she is going to find evidence and destroy Ronan Sullivan! He also thinks she is just going to be a trophy wife and use her in bed.,Except she soon becomes so much more. Ciara soon becomes his whole reason for breathing and becomes his obsession. He has never felt this way about any woman and he is also consumed with jealousy of another man who even looks in her direction. except he hates liars. The one thing Ronan won’t tolerate is liars and if he finds out age has betrayed her he will definitely obliterate his new wife!
Please check all the triggers as there is murder, gore, death and graphic BDSM scenes with impact play with pleasure and pain. Please read responsibly.
Enemies to Lovers✔️
Mafia Romance✔️
Grumpy Brothers✔️
Touch Her and Die✔️
Dual POV✔️
Morally Grey MMC✔️
Spice✔️
Forced Marriage✔️
Besties✔️
Found Family✔️
Audiobook✔️
Ebook✔️
Murder✔️
Who Done It✔️
Suicide✔️
Death✔️
Marriage✔️
July 9, 2026
Shattered Vows had me completely invested from the very first chapter.
Ciara is carrying an unbearable amount of grief after losing her father, and in her eyes there’s only one man to blame, Ronan. She’s determined to destroy him, no matter what it takes. But fate has other plans when she’s forced into a marriage with the very man she swore she’d take down.
Of course… nothing is ever that simple and the relationship between Ciara and Ronan is a constant push and pull. One minute he’s warm, protective, and impossible not to fall for, and the next he’s cold enough to give both Ciara (and me), emotional whiplash. Every time she starts to let him in, he pushes her away again, leaving her questioning everything.
Watching Ciara slowly lower her walls while desperately trying to protect her heart had me completely hooked.
Ronan is suddenly forced to step into his father’s shoes after tragedy strikes, taking over the family business while trying to uncover who is responsible. (I had a gut feeling I knew who it was though)
The relationship between Ronan and his brothers is just as fascinating. There’s so much tension, especially where Cormac is concerned, and you can tell there’s a deeper story waiting to be uncovered. I’m desperate to learn more!!
As secrets slowly begin to unravel, everything starts to fracture. Ciara is left questioning who she can trust, what she should believe, and whether the man she’s fallen for has been lying to her all along. Watching her heart break was genuinely painful.
The chemistry between Ronan and Ciara is absolutely electric. When they’re together… wow. Every scene between them crackles with tension, making every stolen moment feel worth the wait. (It made me squirm)
I also loved Ciara’s loyalty to the people she loves. When her best friend Mila disappears, Ciara refuses to stand by and wait for someone else to find her. She throws herself into the search without hesitation, proving just how fiercely she loves those she considers family.
With Ronan and Ciara both desperately trying to solve the same mystery from different angles, the suspense just keeps building until everything comes crashing together.
And then…
That ending.
Ending on such a cliffhanger was downright cruel. I need the next book immediately because I have to know what happens to Ciara. (Luckily I can go straight onto Avenged Vows)
If you love marriage of convenience, enemies-to-lovers vibes, simmering tension, family secrets, mafia politics, and cliffhangers that leave you screaming, Shattered Vows is one you won’t want to miss. 🖤
Ciara is carrying an unbearable amount of grief after losing her father, and in her eyes there’s only one man to blame, Ronan. She’s determined to destroy him, no matter what it takes. But fate has other plans when she’s forced into a marriage with the very man she swore she’d take down.
Of course… nothing is ever that simple and the relationship between Ciara and Ronan is a constant push and pull. One minute he’s warm, protective, and impossible not to fall for, and the next he’s cold enough to give both Ciara (and me), emotional whiplash. Every time she starts to let him in, he pushes her away again, leaving her questioning everything.
Watching Ciara slowly lower her walls while desperately trying to protect her heart had me completely hooked.
Ronan is suddenly forced to step into his father’s shoes after tragedy strikes, taking over the family business while trying to uncover who is responsible. (I had a gut feeling I knew who it was though)
The relationship between Ronan and his brothers is just as fascinating. There’s so much tension, especially where Cormac is concerned, and you can tell there’s a deeper story waiting to be uncovered. I’m desperate to learn more!!
As secrets slowly begin to unravel, everything starts to fracture. Ciara is left questioning who she can trust, what she should believe, and whether the man she’s fallen for has been lying to her all along. Watching her heart break was genuinely painful.
The chemistry between Ronan and Ciara is absolutely electric. When they’re together… wow. Every scene between them crackles with tension, making every stolen moment feel worth the wait. (It made me squirm)
I also loved Ciara’s loyalty to the people she loves. When her best friend Mila disappears, Ciara refuses to stand by and wait for someone else to find her. She throws herself into the search without hesitation, proving just how fiercely she loves those she considers family.
With Ronan and Ciara both desperately trying to solve the same mystery from different angles, the suspense just keeps building until everything comes crashing together.
And then…
That ending.
Ending on such a cliffhanger was downright cruel. I need the next book immediately because I have to know what happens to Ciara. (Luckily I can go straight onto Avenged Vows)
If you love marriage of convenience, enemies-to-lovers vibes, simmering tension, family secrets, mafia politics, and cliffhangers that leave you screaming, Shattered Vows is one you won’t want to miss. 🖤
April 28, 2026
Title: Shattered Vows (The Sullivan Mafia: Book 1)
Author: Kira Cole
Review: This is the first book in The Sullivan Mafia series, where we meet Ronan Sullivan, heir to the Sullivan empire and Ciara McCarthy, mafia princess.
After a traumatic event that leaves Ronan to take charge of his family, he comes up with a plan to get the rumours to settle and his family name back on track. An arranged marriage with the girl he's obsessed with. Only problem... he may have been the reason for her father's death.
This book was action packed, but also came with some serious whiplash and plot holes. How can one save his family name, only to marry a girl with a traitor as a father, it doesn't make sense. Ronan kept saying that there is a lot riding on the deal ‘marriage’, but Ciara and her family bring absolutely nothing to the table whatsoever, so what’s really riding? What does he get out of marrying her all but a thirst quenched.
The smut scenes were hot, I'll give the author that, but I also feel like over time Ronan really didn't know how to read the room. Like, just because 'you need her', doesn't mean she's in the same head space. The story was decent but could have been better.
I also found it very strange that he’s now the Don but hardly has any security. Ciara also didn't have her own security team when she went to see her friend at the cafe. Any Don's wife would have an elite team following her.
Not much was really happening the first 50% of the book, only push and pull between them with a lot of sexual tension and angst. I'm coming to sense that Ronan isn't your typical mafia man as he didn’t throw a credit card at Ciara and tell her to shop til she drops. In the beginning of the book she mentions that she doesn't have many fancy clothes or jewellery because she had to sell them for cash. Surly Ronan would have noticed this and filled her closet, but nope!
Towards the end of the book it becomes so clear that Ronan is a manipulator with control issues. He wakes Ciara up at 4am, yells at her and tells her to get out of his bedroom. She disappears the next day and he waits for her to come back, then guilt trips her into apologising as if it was all her fault. Meanwhile, he didn’t say sorry for all the crap he did to her the night before. What the actual fk is that?
I really wanted to like the main characters, but I just didn't vibe with Ronan and the way he treated Ciara, and Ciara just took it like a doormat.
And flying first class? Surely the Don would have his own plane or private charter...
Don't even get me started on Ronan leaving Ciara at the Resturant. That really was a dick move and with no security. What did he think she was going to do, wait for him to come back?
Ciara deserved so much better, and Ronan needs to pull his head in before it's too late.
I hope it gets better in the second book.
“She’s a McCarthy.
She is a means to an end, and nothing more. Or at least, that’s what I have to keep telling myself, even if that is harder and harder to keep in mind as she gets deeper and deeper under my skin and into places I thought were dead inside me.”
Stars: 3.75/5 ★
Spice: 2.75/5 🌶️
Author: Kira Cole
Review: This is the first book in The Sullivan Mafia series, where we meet Ronan Sullivan, heir to the Sullivan empire and Ciara McCarthy, mafia princess.
After a traumatic event that leaves Ronan to take charge of his family, he comes up with a plan to get the rumours to settle and his family name back on track. An arranged marriage with the girl he's obsessed with. Only problem... he may have been the reason for her father's death.
This book was action packed, but also came with some serious whiplash and plot holes. How can one save his family name, only to marry a girl with a traitor as a father, it doesn't make sense. Ronan kept saying that there is a lot riding on the deal ‘marriage’, but Ciara and her family bring absolutely nothing to the table whatsoever, so what’s really riding? What does he get out of marrying her all but a thirst quenched.
The smut scenes were hot, I'll give the author that, but I also feel like over time Ronan really didn't know how to read the room. Like, just because 'you need her', doesn't mean she's in the same head space. The story was decent but could have been better.
I also found it very strange that he’s now the Don but hardly has any security. Ciara also didn't have her own security team when she went to see her friend at the cafe. Any Don's wife would have an elite team following her.
Not much was really happening the first 50% of the book, only push and pull between them with a lot of sexual tension and angst. I'm coming to sense that Ronan isn't your typical mafia man as he didn’t throw a credit card at Ciara and tell her to shop til she drops. In the beginning of the book she mentions that she doesn't have many fancy clothes or jewellery because she had to sell them for cash. Surly Ronan would have noticed this and filled her closet, but nope!
Towards the end of the book it becomes so clear that Ronan is a manipulator with control issues. He wakes Ciara up at 4am, yells at her and tells her to get out of his bedroom. She disappears the next day and he waits for her to come back, then guilt trips her into apologising as if it was all her fault. Meanwhile, he didn’t say sorry for all the crap he did to her the night before. What the actual fk is that?
I really wanted to like the main characters, but I just didn't vibe with Ronan and the way he treated Ciara, and Ciara just took it like a doormat.
And flying first class? Surely the Don would have his own plane or private charter...
Don't even get me started on Ronan leaving Ciara at the Resturant. That really was a dick move and with no security. What did he think she was going to do, wait for him to come back?
Ciara deserved so much better, and Ronan needs to pull his head in before it's too late.
I hope it gets better in the second book.
“She’s a McCarthy.
She is a means to an end, and nothing more. Or at least, that’s what I have to keep telling myself, even if that is harder and harder to keep in mind as she gets deeper and deeper under my skin and into places I thought were dead inside me.”
Stars: 3.75/5 ★
Spice: 2.75/5 🌶️
February 8, 2026
Shattered Vows is the first book in The Sulliven Mafia series. This arranged marriage, enemies-to-lovers, mafia romance features Ciara McCarthy and Ronan Sullivan.
Both Ciara and Ronan come from prominent mafia families however Ciara loathes Ronan. She holds his family responsible for her father's death. Since then, their family name doesn't hold much power. The McCarthy family is no longer what it once was.
When Ronan's father is gunned down, as the eldest, he needs to step up to assume the helm. One of the last things his father said to him was that Ciara McCarthy might be a good match. In order to solidify their standing, Ronan reaches out to Ciara's brother Callum and proposes an arranged marriage, uniting their two families. While Ciara is livid, her brother convinces her that she needs to do this for their future. Ciara agrees to the marriage but ultimately her goal is to find something to bring down the Sullivans as retribution for her father's death.
The main characters have undeniable chemistry and I loved their banter. They each try to one up the other, always searching for control. The side characters are also mysterious and I could see additional stories about the Sullivan brothers being written. I have a favourite, but I'll let you choose your own.
While this clearly starts off as an arranged marriage, Ciara and Ronan's mutual attraction changes everything. This is one dark and spicy romance. It is packed with action and drama. There are twists and turns, and it ends on a cliffhanger leaving readers eager to jump into Avenged Vows, the second book in this series. There's quite a bit going on in this book, including family drama within both the Sullivan and McCarthy clans. The author quickly pulls readers in a keeps them hooked through the very last page. I am keen to get my hands on the next book to see what comes next.
Both Ciara and Ronan come from prominent mafia families however Ciara loathes Ronan. She holds his family responsible for her father's death. Since then, their family name doesn't hold much power. The McCarthy family is no longer what it once was.
When Ronan's father is gunned down, as the eldest, he needs to step up to assume the helm. One of the last things his father said to him was that Ciara McCarthy might be a good match. In order to solidify their standing, Ronan reaches out to Ciara's brother Callum and proposes an arranged marriage, uniting their two families. While Ciara is livid, her brother convinces her that she needs to do this for their future. Ciara agrees to the marriage but ultimately her goal is to find something to bring down the Sullivans as retribution for her father's death.
The main characters have undeniable chemistry and I loved their banter. They each try to one up the other, always searching for control. The side characters are also mysterious and I could see additional stories about the Sullivan brothers being written. I have a favourite, but I'll let you choose your own.
While this clearly starts off as an arranged marriage, Ciara and Ronan's mutual attraction changes everything. This is one dark and spicy romance. It is packed with action and drama. There are twists and turns, and it ends on a cliffhanger leaving readers eager to jump into Avenged Vows, the second book in this series. There's quite a bit going on in this book, including family drama within both the Sullivan and McCarthy clans. The author quickly pulls readers in a keeps them hooked through the very last page. I am keen to get my hands on the next book to see what comes next.
Review of advance copy
This is book 1 in the Sullivan Mafia Series by Kira Cole. She has become a favorite of mine this year and I adore her writing style.
If you love a good mafia romance this book is a great place to start to check her out. But I warn you this one is left on a cliffhanger and I can not wait to jump into book 2.
Please read the trigger warnings as this book does include mafia related incidents.
This is the story of Ronan Sullivan, the newly installed mafia don for the Sullivan family, and Ciara McCarthy, the daughter of a disgraced mafia family. This is an arranged/forced marriage romance.
Kira knows how to keep you on your toes and is an amazing author. I loved the chemistry between these two characters. The spice level was off the charts and you could cut the tension with a knife. So good. I loved how our cocky mfc pushed Ciara’s buttons and how she fought back only to submit. Ugh it was so hot. I love the push pull of the dom/sub relationship in this book.
This book ends with our stubborn girl running into a fight she may not come out of and I knew going into this book it ended on a cliffhanger and still was upset when I got to the end. But I know Kira will make it worth my wait.
If you love a good mafia romance then check out this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you love a good mafia romance this book is a great place to start to check her out. But I warn you this one is left on a cliffhanger and I can not wait to jump into book 2.
Please read the trigger warnings as this book does include mafia related incidents.
This is the story of Ronan Sullivan, the newly installed mafia don for the Sullivan family, and Ciara McCarthy, the daughter of a disgraced mafia family. This is an arranged/forced marriage romance.
Kira knows how to keep you on your toes and is an amazing author. I loved the chemistry between these two characters. The spice level was off the charts and you could cut the tension with a knife. So good. I loved how our cocky mfc pushed Ciara’s buttons and how she fought back only to submit. Ugh it was so hot. I love the push pull of the dom/sub relationship in this book.
This book ends with our stubborn girl running into a fight she may not come out of and I knew going into this book it ended on a cliffhanger and still was upset when I got to the end. But I know Kira will make it worth my wait.
If you love a good mafia romance then check out this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shattered Vows is the first book in The Sullivan Mafia Series and what a fantastic start to the series it is, I was captivated from the very start until the heart stopping cliffhanger ending!
I absolutely cannot wait to read the next book Avenged Vows.
This book was the story of Ciara McCarthy who with her brother Callum is struggling as the McCarthy name which was once great, is now just the two of them after their father killed himself and now they have no income and no respect in the mafia community. Ronan Sullivan is the eldest son and heir. After Ronan’s father was killed and he decided that it would be beneficial for an arranged marriage between himself and Ciara McCarthy. She is vehemently against the idea but her brother talks her into going through with the marriage. The chemistry between Ciara and Ronan is off the charts and the way Ciara stands up for herself against Ronan every time is great and I think Ronan really enjoys it too, even though it frustrates him. Their steamy scenes are incredible. The way that Ronan and Ciara have to weave their way through mysteries, lies, danger, murder and kidnapping while their relationship is growing more real for both of them but neither of has told the other yet!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I absolutely cannot wait to read the next book Avenged Vows.
This book was the story of Ciara McCarthy who with her brother Callum is struggling as the McCarthy name which was once great, is now just the two of them after their father killed himself and now they have no income and no respect in the mafia community. Ronan Sullivan is the eldest son and heir. After Ronan’s father was killed and he decided that it would be beneficial for an arranged marriage between himself and Ciara McCarthy. She is vehemently against the idea but her brother talks her into going through with the marriage. The chemistry between Ciara and Ronan is off the charts and the way Ciara stands up for herself against Ronan every time is great and I think Ronan really enjoys it too, even though it frustrates him. Their steamy scenes are incredible. The way that Ronan and Ciara have to weave their way through mysteries, lies, danger, murder and kidnapping while their relationship is growing more real for both of them but neither of has told the other yet!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 17, 2026
Shattered Vows is a dark, deliciously intense Irish mafia romance that had me hooked from page one. The arranged marriage trope mixed with enemies-to-lovers tension? Absolutely addictive. Ciara is fierce, stubborn, and driven by revenge, while Ronan is the kind of morally gray mafia man you love to hate—and then hate yourself for loving.
The chemistry between them crackles with tension. Every interaction is loaded with unspoken desire, resentment, and a pull neither of them wants to admit. The slow burn is chef’s kiss, and when the emotions start bleeding through the walls they’ve built, it’s impossible not to feel it. Secrets, betrayal, obsession, and power plays keep the story moving at a relentless pace.
And that ending… brutal. The kind of cliffhanger that leaves you staring at the last page, heart pounding, already desperate for the next book. I need Avenged Vows immediately because I have to know how this tangled, dangerous relationship plays out.
If you love dark mafia romance with angst, spice, forced proximity, and characters who blur the line between love and destruction, this one is a must-read.
I received a free ARC and this review is only my opinion.
The chemistry between them crackles with tension. Every interaction is loaded with unspoken desire, resentment, and a pull neither of them wants to admit. The slow burn is chef’s kiss, and when the emotions start bleeding through the walls they’ve built, it’s impossible not to feel it. Secrets, betrayal, obsession, and power plays keep the story moving at a relentless pace.
And that ending… brutal. The kind of cliffhanger that leaves you staring at the last page, heart pounding, already desperate for the next book. I need Avenged Vows immediately because I have to know how this tangled, dangerous relationship plays out.
If you love dark mafia romance with angst, spice, forced proximity, and characters who blur the line between love and destruction, this one is a must-read.
I received a free ARC and this review is only my opinion.
March 6, 2026
Saw this book being promoted online and had to read it. Of course I finished it in 2 days it was just that good. I love the characters. Ronan is one cranky, obsessed man. He basically forces Ciara to marry him. Her brother told her she has to….for the family name. Ciara is one strong, stubborn woman who does what she wants, when she wants. She actually hates Ronan at the beginning but the two of them seem
To soften up to the idea of them being married to eachother. There’s good
Perks after all. The spice in this book is crazy. Ciara may be obsessed with the D and how good Ronan makes her feel but she never gives up her strong feisty side. She probably one of my favorite female characters.
When Ciara starts to help Ronan with somethings he can’t figure out, she can’t help
But follow thru. Someone is out there trying to ruin the McCarthy name more than it already is. Now someone is missing, will she be found in time. Will Ciara and Ronan be able to figure out what’s happening and love happily ever after? I’m actually downloading book 2 to find out what happens next. This book was as good as I expected it to be. Definitely a 5 star read.
To soften up to the idea of them being married to eachother. There’s good
Perks after all. The spice in this book is crazy. Ciara may be obsessed with the D and how good Ronan makes her feel but she never gives up her strong feisty side. She probably one of my favorite female characters.
When Ciara starts to help Ronan with somethings he can’t figure out, she can’t help
But follow thru. Someone is out there trying to ruin the McCarthy name more than it already is. Now someone is missing, will she be found in time. Will Ciara and Ronan be able to figure out what’s happening and love happily ever after? I’m actually downloading book 2 to find out what happens next. This book was as good as I expected it to be. Definitely a 5 star read.
Review of advance copy
Good lawd, I am floored! Utterly. Flipping. Floored, I tell you. This book was Eve.Ry.Thing!! The twist and turns, the passion, the drama, it all grips you tight and doesn't let go till the end. It was the best kind of book ride, let me tell you! And that ending? I have no words! I NEED the next book like I need my next breath!
This is one of those gem of a novels that creeps up on you and just bulldozes over you with how phenomenal it is before you realize what's actually happening. Holy crap, was this an epic read. Loved the characters of Ciara and Ronan. The chemistry they had for one another, even when there was hate between them, was off the charts! This is one read that is so unique and is gonna stay with me, living rent free in my head, for a long time to come.
To say this is one book EVERYONE needs to read is an understatement of epic proportions! This is one book i would happily recommend to anyone who would listen about it. My mouth is still on the floor over this book. Can not recommend it enough! Wow! Just wow!!
This is one of those gem of a novels that creeps up on you and just bulldozes over you with how phenomenal it is before you realize what's actually happening. Holy crap, was this an epic read. Loved the characters of Ciara and Ronan. The chemistry they had for one another, even when there was hate between them, was off the charts! This is one read that is so unique and is gonna stay with me, living rent free in my head, for a long time to come.
To say this is one book EVERYONE needs to read is an understatement of epic proportions! This is one book i would happily recommend to anyone who would listen about it. My mouth is still on the floor over this book. Can not recommend it enough! Wow! Just wow!!
January 26, 2026
Ronan and Ciara
Tropes:
* Mafia romance
* Arranged marriage
* Enemies to lovers
* Obsession
* Revenge
If you’re after a mafia romance where even when you’re hating on the MMC, you’re still rooting for a HEA, then this is for you.
This ends on a cliffhanger, so be prepared.. you’re going to want to start book 2 straight away.
Forced into a marriage to forge a mend in their family feud, Ciara is doing her best to fight back. But despite his tendencies to act the a-z, Ronan somehow manages to win her over to his side, and they uncover a pretty big conspiracy…
I actually really liked how Kira wrote a domineering MMC. He assumed he knew all, made decisions based on this, and was unapologetically an a-z about it. What a pity then, that Ciara was a bit smarter and managed to uncover information that he disregarded and proved him wrong.
This keeps you on your toes, plenty of twists and turns, it leaves you with an idea of who might be causing the problems, but definitely leaves you itching to get into the next book.
Thanks Kira, for the early opportunity to read.
Tropes:
* Mafia romance
* Arranged marriage
* Enemies to lovers
* Obsession
* Revenge
If you’re after a mafia romance where even when you’re hating on the MMC, you’re still rooting for a HEA, then this is for you.
This ends on a cliffhanger, so be prepared.. you’re going to want to start book 2 straight away.
Forced into a marriage to forge a mend in their family feud, Ciara is doing her best to fight back. But despite his tendencies to act the a-z, Ronan somehow manages to win her over to his side, and they uncover a pretty big conspiracy…
I actually really liked how Kira wrote a domineering MMC. He assumed he knew all, made decisions based on this, and was unapologetically an a-z about it. What a pity then, that Ciara was a bit smarter and managed to uncover information that he disregarded and proved him wrong.
This keeps you on your toes, plenty of twists and turns, it leaves you with an idea of who might be causing the problems, but definitely leaves you itching to get into the next book.
Thanks Kira, for the early opportunity to read.
February 9, 2026
I have been in my mafia romance era lately, and this series did NOT disappoint. I finished them and immediately added them to my birthday wishlist to have as trophies. The author, Kira Cole is amazing and releases both books that go to the couple on the same day, so even though I got the ARC of the first book, I was able to immediately read the second and finish the couples books. I am so glad I was able to, because I was screaming and NEEDing more. The cliffhanger was done so well that it made you want more, but left off in a good way, where I didn’t feel like throwing my kindle (that was my thoughts before I realized the second gets released as well).
The FMC hates the MMC because she thinks he is the root cause for her father’s death and family's empire's downfall. Even though she’s been through a lot, she refuses to be anything but tough and keeps coming back, she won’t take anything lying down and won’t give up. Her plan is to take down the MMC for revenge. The MMC is intrigued by the FMC and doesn’t understand why but when his father is murdered, he has to take over his family’s empire and find out who is working against them. Him and his brothers are trying to figure out what’s going on, and the twists and turns are done so well you get sucked in. The FMC finds out the truth of her father and family’s demise, and then starts working with the MMC to solve the next mystery.
I devoured both books in one day and can’t wait for the next books to come out. I will be counting down the days to March 27th.
Thank you to Kira Cole and Naughty Nerd Author Services for the early copy - all opinions are my own!
The FMC hates the MMC because she thinks he is the root cause for her father’s death and family's empire's downfall. Even though she’s been through a lot, she refuses to be anything but tough and keeps coming back, she won’t take anything lying down and won’t give up. Her plan is to take down the MMC for revenge. The MMC is intrigued by the FMC and doesn’t understand why but when his father is murdered, he has to take over his family’s empire and find out who is working against them. Him and his brothers are trying to figure out what’s going on, and the twists and turns are done so well you get sucked in. The FMC finds out the truth of her father and family’s demise, and then starts working with the MMC to solve the next mystery.
I devoured both books in one day and can’t wait for the next books to come out. I will be counting down the days to March 27th.
Thank you to Kira Cole and Naughty Nerd Author Services for the early copy - all opinions are my own!
February 6, 2026
Ciara is a special kind of stubborn for thinking she could outplay an Irish mafia boss while living in his house. Watching her try to avenge her father while Ronan secretly plays the martyr was a masterclass in miscommunication. Ronan is the typical stoic wall of secrets, but his "it is for your own good" routine definitely made me want to kick him in the shins once or twice. The transition from hatred to that inevitable mutual attraction actually felt like it had some teeth to it, rather than just flipping a switch. I appreciated that the Irish mafia setting felt gritty enough to back up the high stakes of their business arrangement. The side characters in the Sullivan family are already starting to pique my interest for future books. My biggest gripe is the cliffhanger ending, which honestly felt like a personal attack after all that build up. The pacing kept moving, even when the two of them were just staring each other down across a dinner table. It is a solid start to a series if you do not mind your romance served with a side of heavy betrayal.
February 9, 2026
Shattered Vows is the first book in the Sullivan Mafia series. It is a dark arranged marriage romance that ends in a cliffhanger-so beware. Ronan and Ciara marry to align their families and have peace. The chemistry between them is electric. Their banter is hilarious. What happens when they actually fall in love with each other? Can they survive the upcoming storm?
The duet narration by Heather Firth and James Cassidy is absolutely extraordinary. Heather Firth is brilliant as beautiful, intelligent, quiet but sassy Ciara. I could feel all of her pain, anger, fear, hurt, disappointment, doubt, lust, passion and love through her voice. James Cassidy is positively delightful as alpha, ruthless, possessive, obsessed Ronan. His sexy, sultry tone and Irish accent are divine. These two talented voice actors brought this story to life beautifully. I highly recommend listening to this fabulous audiobook.
Thanks to the author and BookSprout for this ALC.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Story 4 stars Narration 5 stars
The duet narration by Heather Firth and James Cassidy is absolutely extraordinary. Heather Firth is brilliant as beautiful, intelligent, quiet but sassy Ciara. I could feel all of her pain, anger, fear, hurt, disappointment, doubt, lust, passion and love through her voice. James Cassidy is positively delightful as alpha, ruthless, possessive, obsessed Ronan. His sexy, sultry tone and Irish accent are divine. These two talented voice actors brought this story to life beautifully. I highly recommend listening to this fabulous audiobook.
Thanks to the author and BookSprout for this ALC.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Story 4 stars Narration 5 stars
February 10, 2026
First of all, the book was good but it’s elevated into greatness by the audio duet narration. Absolutely brilliant. Heather Firth’s voice is perfect for Ciara, very real and accessible. I could relate to a person with that voice. And James Cassidy’s voice is pure sex. When he growls, my ovaries start to keen, and I have been forced to search out more of his backlist. Together they are just extraordinary.
The story is the forced/arranged mafia marriage between Ronan Sullivan and Ciara McCarthy. His father has just been unalived with a firearm, and one of da’s last comments was that a union with the McCarthys would be excellent for the family. Ciara’s father committed the ultimate self-harm a while ago, and she and her brother are struggling amid the wreckage of their family, so the offer from the Sullivan is a lifeline. At least, that’s what Ciara’s brother believes, and he strongly guilts and pushes her into the marriage.
There’s a lot of drama between the couple. Much of it manufactured. Ciara is determined to strongly dislike Ronan (she blames the Sullivan for her father’s demise), and Ronan is afraid of ceding control, so both have crazily high walls up. Ciara is very tense and Ronan… I don’t normally like alphaholes, but Ronan has that certain Je ne sais quoi that has me melting while asking myself what the quoi.
So many secrets, and Ronan and Ciara start to unwrap them and that makes the story especially interesting. I’m not crazy about wangst, so some of the marriage stuff did make me roll my eyes, but the mystery had me absolutely riveted.
Alas, it ends in a cliffhanger because the story is a duet, with part two coming soon. Duet narration of a duet story- very meta, yet very rewarding.
Cat’s Stats
No cheating or SA.
Does not pass the Bechdel test.
Heat is explicit and consensual.
Triggers include references to self Unaliving, references to trafficking, violence, language, and light bondage.
Tropes include forced/arranged marriage, when Irish eyes are smiling, simply mad about the mob, dysfunctional family FTW, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and family secrets.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story is the forced/arranged mafia marriage between Ronan Sullivan and Ciara McCarthy. His father has just been unalived with a firearm, and one of da’s last comments was that a union with the McCarthys would be excellent for the family. Ciara’s father committed the ultimate self-harm a while ago, and she and her brother are struggling amid the wreckage of their family, so the offer from the Sullivan is a lifeline. At least, that’s what Ciara’s brother believes, and he strongly guilts and pushes her into the marriage.
There’s a lot of drama between the couple. Much of it manufactured. Ciara is determined to strongly dislike Ronan (she blames the Sullivan for her father’s demise), and Ronan is afraid of ceding control, so both have crazily high walls up. Ciara is very tense and Ronan… I don’t normally like alphaholes, but Ronan has that certain Je ne sais quoi that has me melting while asking myself what the quoi.
So many secrets, and Ronan and Ciara start to unwrap them and that makes the story especially interesting. I’m not crazy about wangst, so some of the marriage stuff did make me roll my eyes, but the mystery had me absolutely riveted.
Alas, it ends in a cliffhanger because the story is a duet, with part two coming soon. Duet narration of a duet story- very meta, yet very rewarding.
Cat’s Stats
No cheating or SA.
Does not pass the Bechdel test.
Heat is explicit and consensual.
Triggers include references to self Unaliving, references to trafficking, violence, language, and light bondage.
Tropes include forced/arranged marriage, when Irish eyes are smiling, simply mad about the mob, dysfunctional family FTW, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and family secrets.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When Ronan's father is assassinated at an engagement party, Ronan becomes the new Don. He decides to strengthen ties between the families by arranging a mafia wedding to a reluctant Ciara. Once Ronan, Ciara, and her brother Callum have agreed to the deal, the wedding is set for a week later. Ciara decides that Ronan might think he has the upper hand, but she is determined to bring his whole family down when the opportunity arises. Kira keeps you turning the pages with the chemistry between the two and Ronan pushing all her buttons to get a reaction. Along with all the twists and turns that you don't see coming.
I recieved an arc from Booksprout from my voluntary honest review for NN Book Blog. If you love reading dark mafia romances, then you will love this book. Be warned, this book does end on a cliffhanger, and I cant wait till the next book comes out to see what happens next.
I recieved an arc from Booksprout from my voluntary honest review for NN Book Blog. If you love reading dark mafia romances, then you will love this book. Be warned, this book does end on a cliffhanger, and I cant wait till the next book comes out to see what happens next.
January 31, 2026
Shattered Vows, book one in the Sullivan Mafia series follows Mafia heir Ronan Sullivan and the daughter of a rival family, Ciara McCarthy. With the death of her father, Ciara and her brother Callum are struggling to keep their family name afloat. When Ronan’s father is assassinated, Ronan offers to marry Ciara to form an alliance between the two families, and her brother Callum basically forces her to do it. Ciara on the other hand, only goes along with the plan so she can get closer to Ronan, looking for a way to find the truth behind what happened.. and prove that Ronan is the monster she believes him to be. But the more Ciara digs, the more she discovers about her father’s unsavory deals.. Will she make Ronan pay for his sins? Or will she discover that the truth she thought she knew, wasn’t the truth after all?
February 11, 2026
Book 1 of The Sullivan Mafia Series
I have found it's easy to get pulled into books written by Kira Cole with interesting sexy characters and a mafia plot full of suspense, action, and delicious romance i flew through this one. I'm eager for the conclusion in book 2 after that cliffhanger!
Ciara is feisty with a dramatic queen flare that was fun to read. Ronan is straight-up walking talking Irish sexiness. He calls her "little fire" in Gaelic and I loved that. And of course she tries to hate him while he's completely obsessed, the perfect arranged marriage set up.
Duet Narration performed by James Cassidy and Heather Firth. So much fun to listen to, I was completely captivated.
Tropes:
Mafia
Revenge
Arranged marriage
Surprise pregnancy
Morally-grey obsessed MMC
Enemies-to-lovers
Touch her and ☠️
Dual POV
Cliffhanger concludes in book 2
Check TW
I have found it's easy to get pulled into books written by Kira Cole with interesting sexy characters and a mafia plot full of suspense, action, and delicious romance i flew through this one. I'm eager for the conclusion in book 2 after that cliffhanger!
Ciara is feisty with a dramatic queen flare that was fun to read. Ronan is straight-up walking talking Irish sexiness. He calls her "little fire" in Gaelic and I loved that. And of course she tries to hate him while he's completely obsessed, the perfect arranged marriage set up.
Duet Narration performed by James Cassidy and Heather Firth. So much fun to listen to, I was completely captivated.
Tropes:
Mafia
Revenge
Arranged marriage
Surprise pregnancy
Morally-grey obsessed MMC
Enemies-to-lovers
Touch her and ☠️
Dual POV
Cliffhanger concludes in book 2
Check TW
February 17, 2026
**ALC REVIEW**
Arrrrgh!!!
What a toe curlingly good book! There is nothing better than a great Mafia Romance! I absolutely devoured this!
Shattered Vows is book 1 in the Sullivan Mafia duet. It is a forced Marriage mafia romance with one-sided enemies/one sided indifference to lovers. The forced proximity leads to a dangerous obsession and builds the tension to epic proportions. The FMCs desire for revenge starts to dissipate as she starts to learn hidden truths - deadly consequences start to unfold and when the book comes to a climatic cliffhanger - we are left gripping the edge of our seat and pulling out our hair.
I am now desperate for book 2!!! Gimme gimme gimme!
Absolutely loved this book! The performance by both narrators was exceptional! **chefs kiss** Both brought light and dark to each character, giving them depth and personality. Just perfection!
Arrrrgh!!!
What a toe curlingly good book! There is nothing better than a great Mafia Romance! I absolutely devoured this!
Shattered Vows is book 1 in the Sullivan Mafia duet. It is a forced Marriage mafia romance with one-sided enemies/one sided indifference to lovers. The forced proximity leads to a dangerous obsession and builds the tension to epic proportions. The FMCs desire for revenge starts to dissipate as she starts to learn hidden truths - deadly consequences start to unfold and when the book comes to a climatic cliffhanger - we are left gripping the edge of our seat and pulling out our hair.
I am now desperate for book 2!!! Gimme gimme gimme!
Absolutely loved this book! The performance by both narrators was exceptional! **chefs kiss** Both brought light and dark to each character, giving them depth and personality. Just perfection!
June 19, 2026
Ugh... miscommunication tropes are not my fave and if they aren't yours either I would avoid this series. I'm going to continue with the second installment out of a morbid curiosity of what's going to happen to Ciara and Ronan. I like Ronan's character, but he doesn't read morally gray. More like morally grumpy. Versus Ciara (and I'm honestly not sure if it's the writing or the narration) just comes across as perpetually sad. I like grumpy x sunshine tropes and morally gray characters. But the mixture of grumpy x sad plus miscommunication is just plan BLAH. Whenever either of character actually talks about something of note, they start a fight and immediately jump to sex or not talking. The repetition is boring and apparently I'm a glutton for punishment and will go back to finish their story.
Review of advance copy
Ronan marries Ciara in an arranged marriage after his father is assassinated.
Ciara blames Ronan and his family for her father's suicide. She is intent on discovering how his family is implicated.
Ronan is attracted to Ciara, but he is resisting her. He is intent on finding out who was responsible for murdering his father.
Ciara has a background in cybersecurity, but Ronan refuses to give her access to Sullivan records. They continue to feud while they dance around their attraction.
There is a cliff hanger ending, I can't wait for the next book in the series.
The plot is very complex with great heat between the main characters, along with treachery and deceit.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ciara blames Ronan and his family for her father's suicide. She is intent on discovering how his family is implicated.
Ronan is attracted to Ciara, but he is resisting her. He is intent on finding out who was responsible for murdering his father.
Ciara has a background in cybersecurity, but Ronan refuses to give her access to Sullivan records. They continue to feud while they dance around their attraction.
There is a cliff hanger ending, I can't wait for the next book in the series.
The plot is very complex with great heat between the main characters, along with treachery and deceit.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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