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Merciless Vow
a Dark Mafia Alpha Wolf Shifter Forced Marriage Romance
Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 235 reviews
June 3, 2026
ARC Read: 4.5⭐️ 3.5🌶️
I was so excited to dive into this book, and it absolutely did not disappoint. Ines really leans into the mafia shifter vibe, and it was completely addictive!
What made this story stand out to me is that the heroine, Addie, is far from a damsel in distress. Even when she’s forced into a marriage to save her brother, she refuses to just play the part of a submissive wife. Seeing her constantly push back against Vidar’s alpha hole tendencies and watching him get completely thrown off by her intelligence was my favorite part of the book. It added so much tension to their dynamic. I also loved watching Vidar struggle to figure out how to actually make her happy, realizing that she couldn't be bought with just things or money; she needed something real.
The way the pack politics and family secrets are woven into the slow burn and forced marriage tropes felt refreshing. Addie is such a strong lead! But her and Vidar together was magic! I found myself so invested in the world building and the side characters that I’m already eager for the next book in the series.
If you enjoy dark, possessive heroes balanced by a strong heroine, this is a must read!
Thank you for this early copy. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion.
I was so excited to dive into this book, and it absolutely did not disappoint. Ines really leans into the mafia shifter vibe, and it was completely addictive!
What made this story stand out to me is that the heroine, Addie, is far from a damsel in distress. Even when she’s forced into a marriage to save her brother, she refuses to just play the part of a submissive wife. Seeing her constantly push back against Vidar’s alpha hole tendencies and watching him get completely thrown off by her intelligence was my favorite part of the book. It added so much tension to their dynamic. I also loved watching Vidar struggle to figure out how to actually make her happy, realizing that she couldn't be bought with just things or money; she needed something real.
The way the pack politics and family secrets are woven into the slow burn and forced marriage tropes felt refreshing. Addie is such a strong lead! But her and Vidar together was magic! I found myself so invested in the world building and the side characters that I’m already eager for the next book in the series.
If you enjoy dark, possessive heroes balanced by a strong heroine, this is a must read!
Thank you for this early copy. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion.
June 9, 2026
5+ stars!! Absolutely amazing. Ines Johnson is masterpiece at writing dark mafia, Alpha wolf romance. I was floored by her amazing writing. Right off the bat there was so much action that kept me turning the page. I got do sucked into this world I could put the book down. Addie is such a strong willed fmc. And Vidar is a seductive, stubborn butt lol I don't know how else to describe him he is tirelessly trying to get her to submit, but she ain't backin down. She lost her whole world because of her brothers stunt. I loved their banter, I loved how strong she is. I hated her father what an a#$ he was. I highly recommend this book!!!
July 31, 2026
I could describe this almost as a bully romance.
If there is one thing I am a sucker for, it is wolf shifters. They are my absolute favorite, but I can't seem to find that many that pull me in. This did just that for me. I loved the writing style, the fast pace, and the balance between dark romance and paranormal world-building. Wolf shifters' pack dynamics feel like they are made for the mafia world lifestyle here.
Marriages are arranged between families, and in that, we get Addie, who would prefer to be away from her abusive Alpha father and focus on her human career instead of the pack politics that would limit her autonomy. She is written to be fierce and brilliant on the ins and outs of the corporate world of New York, an independent boss babe who doesn't take shit from anyone. Addie stays true to herself throughout the whole book, so I really loved her character.
When her little brother gets caught skimming money from the most powerful wolf family, to the tune of six million dollars, the Blackwood's don't want the money back; they just want her, and Addie is forced into a marriage to save his life. Vidar Blackwood is everything Addie has spent her life running from: powerful, possessive, ruthless, and well-practiced at bending the world to his will. Underneath all that dominance is a man marred by betrayal, which makes his need to protect and control Addie even more intense. He wants to lock her away; she wants to burn the tower down.
"I knew I could fuck her into submission. There was no doubt of that. Afterwards, maybe I'd show her my spreadsheets when I was done with her between the sheets."
The arrogance of this man! I love a man who tries so hard to keep his heart out of the game. It gives ignorant of reality vibes.
The push and pull between these characters was so fun. She constantly challenges him, and it makes their romance feel layered and believable. Addie is a slippery fish, and because of the abuse she endured growing up, she is good at running, and Vidar loves the chase. The crackling tension, the banter, the psychological head games, and later vulnerabiltiy makes this a 4-5 star read for me.
What I really loved about this book was the Blackwood family, especially Fenrir, the alpha head of the family. They are loyal and loving toward each other and when Addie comes in, it's an experience she has always wanted but never had the opportunity to share in. The advice Fenrir gives his son in this book had me absolutely seeing hearts.
"I've given her everything. Money, clothes, the best home, a new car. I gave her access to the business. It's not enough. I don't understand what else there is."
"The best women don't want any of that, money, property, power; those are easy to give. A man gives those because he has them, not because they cost him anything. The best women want the one thing that actually costs."
omgosh, I loved it. There were a few scenes in this book that squeezed my heart and I am excited to pick up the next installment.
If there is one thing I am a sucker for, it is wolf shifters. They are my absolute favorite, but I can't seem to find that many that pull me in. This did just that for me. I loved the writing style, the fast pace, and the balance between dark romance and paranormal world-building. Wolf shifters' pack dynamics feel like they are made for the mafia world lifestyle here.
Marriages are arranged between families, and in that, we get Addie, who would prefer to be away from her abusive Alpha father and focus on her human career instead of the pack politics that would limit her autonomy. She is written to be fierce and brilliant on the ins and outs of the corporate world of New York, an independent boss babe who doesn't take shit from anyone. Addie stays true to herself throughout the whole book, so I really loved her character.
When her little brother gets caught skimming money from the most powerful wolf family, to the tune of six million dollars, the Blackwood's don't want the money back; they just want her, and Addie is forced into a marriage to save his life. Vidar Blackwood is everything Addie has spent her life running from: powerful, possessive, ruthless, and well-practiced at bending the world to his will. Underneath all that dominance is a man marred by betrayal, which makes his need to protect and control Addie even more intense. He wants to lock her away; she wants to burn the tower down.
"I knew I could fuck her into submission. There was no doubt of that. Afterwards, maybe I'd show her my spreadsheets when I was done with her between the sheets."
The arrogance of this man! I love a man who tries so hard to keep his heart out of the game. It gives ignorant of reality vibes.
The push and pull between these characters was so fun. She constantly challenges him, and it makes their romance feel layered and believable. Addie is a slippery fish, and because of the abuse she endured growing up, she is good at running, and Vidar loves the chase. The crackling tension, the banter, the psychological head games, and later vulnerabiltiy makes this a 4-5 star read for me.
What I really loved about this book was the Blackwood family, especially Fenrir, the alpha head of the family. They are loyal and loving toward each other and when Addie comes in, it's an experience she has always wanted but never had the opportunity to share in. The advice Fenrir gives his son in this book had me absolutely seeing hearts.
"I've given her everything. Money, clothes, the best home, a new car. I gave her access to the business. It's not enough. I don't understand what else there is."
"The best women don't want any of that, money, property, power; those are easy to give. A man gives those because he has them, not because they cost him anything. The best women want the one thing that actually costs."
omgosh, I loved it. There were a few scenes in this book that squeezed my heart and I am excited to pick up the next installment.
June 10, 2026
These ~250 pages delivered so much more than I bargained for I barely know where to start. The writing was impeccable, the author did so much with so few pages - I could see everything, feel the difference in the family dynamics, feel the presence in rooms, how their wolves felt when they were human, how they experienced the shift and how they thought when they were in wolf form. The smell of the food Vidar’s mother cooked and the feelings it evoked in him, the memories it triggered, the house they lived in and its reflection on their family dynamics - it was all just the perfect packaging for this romance.
The pacing was perfect from the slow burn to the way we reached a satisfying conclusion that fit the main characters perfectly, while the epilogue left me salivating for the next book in this saga.
Yes this is a paranormal x mafia-esque romance, yes we get some of my favorite tropes: slow burn, forced marriage, found family, but this delivered on so much more.
It was the perfect balance of a character-driven story and a plot-driven story. You watch Addie and Vidar learn each other, manipulate each other, and eventually love each other. You fall in love with Vidar’s family and I loved the contrast of his family/pack dynamic verses other families and packs. The tender moments with his parents, especially at the end, gave me chills. The themes of loyalty and how they played in throughout the book, Addie’s loyalty to her brother and best friend, Vidar’s loyalty to his family and his pursuit to gain Addie’s loyalty.
I felt like there was the perfect amount of spice, the yearning and longing was done perfectly, a gorgeously executed slow burn and the spice itself was great but not the focus. Since these two are extremely intellectual, their foreplay was in demonstrations of their brilliance and it was done so well.
Ines Johnson ate this UP and left no crumbs.
The pacing was perfect from the slow burn to the way we reached a satisfying conclusion that fit the main characters perfectly, while the epilogue left me salivating for the next book in this saga.
Yes this is a paranormal x mafia-esque romance, yes we get some of my favorite tropes: slow burn, forced marriage, found family, but this delivered on so much more.
It was the perfect balance of a character-driven story and a plot-driven story. You watch Addie and Vidar learn each other, manipulate each other, and eventually love each other. You fall in love with Vidar’s family and I loved the contrast of his family/pack dynamic verses other families and packs. The tender moments with his parents, especially at the end, gave me chills. The themes of loyalty and how they played in throughout the book, Addie’s loyalty to her brother and best friend, Vidar’s loyalty to his family and his pursuit to gain Addie’s loyalty.
I felt like there was the perfect amount of spice, the yearning and longing was done perfectly, a gorgeously executed slow burn and the spice itself was great but not the focus. Since these two are extremely intellectual, their foreplay was in demonstrations of their brilliance and it was done so well.
Ines Johnson ate this UP and left no crumbs.
June 25, 2026
Notes for me
Vidar Blackwood- 2nd born of the current Alpha. His pack owns Fang Dynasty steakhouse. He builds the family empire.
Addie Vane- she wolf left her pack 10 years ago. Never been back. Has no use for her pack.
Opens with Vidar on a date with a human woman. She’s asking him back to her hotel. He can’t stop thinking about .4% spoilage loss in their last shipment. In his vehicle she’s all over him. He’s almost getting interested in just a quick physical release. Hotel lobby he smells their specific steak cooking at the Vane pack’s hotel. His .4 had actually been stolen. Didn’t love this opening with OW.
Addie uses her mother’s maiden name and works in a professional capacity. Her father calls saying her brother Elias has been kidnapped by the Blackwood pack and she needs to come home.
Elias tried to use the .4% as a way to skim money. After beating him to within an inch of his life they decide Vidar will marry his sister.
Vidar is very intrigued with Addie and her wolf. She’s obviously brilliant and strong. However she will have to earn his respect. He usually goes for sun-kissed looking women. She is Irish fair skinned and red hair.
He remembers being with other women a few times throughout the books. Things like he can’t actually sleep with a woman in his bed, etc.
Vidar Blackwood- 2nd born of the current Alpha. His pack owns Fang Dynasty steakhouse. He builds the family empire.
Addie Vane- she wolf left her pack 10 years ago. Never been back. Has no use for her pack.
Opens with Vidar on a date with a human woman. She’s asking him back to her hotel. He can’t stop thinking about .4% spoilage loss in their last shipment. In his vehicle she’s all over him. He’s almost getting interested in just a quick physical release. Hotel lobby he smells their specific steak cooking at the Vane pack’s hotel. His .4 had actually been stolen. Didn’t love this opening with OW.
Addie uses her mother’s maiden name and works in a professional capacity. Her father calls saying her brother Elias has been kidnapped by the Blackwood pack and she needs to come home.
Elias tried to use the .4% as a way to skim money. After beating him to within an inch of his life they decide Vidar will marry his sister.
Vidar is very intrigued with Addie and her wolf. She’s obviously brilliant and strong. However she will have to earn his respect. He usually goes for sun-kissed looking women. She is Irish fair skinned and red hair.
He remembers being with other women a few times throughout the books. Things like he can’t actually sleep with a woman in his bed, etc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2026
I love a wolf shifter romance, and the mafia aspect was so fun too. This book ticked all my boxes for a shifter romance, with a possessive alpha wolf mmc and a fmc who will not let herself be bossed around. The plot was pretty intense, I love an arranged marriage where they seem to hate each other, but he’s been down bad since he met her. It was a fun read with so much tension and many plot twists. I loved watching the bond form between them as he learned to trust again becuase he couldn’t bear the thought of her leaving. But as much as I enjoyed this book, I’ve read about a bunch of Alpha holes with trust issues who are healed by their girlfriends and this book didn’t particularly stand out to me. I tried very hard to love Vadir, he’s not bad but there are some things about him I’m not super into. His family was such fun though, and I can’t wait for the next book with Addie’s human friend Nell. I loved Addie and her quick intelligence, and she was the highlight of the book for me. I give this a 4/5
June 11, 2026
ARC Review
4.5/5 ⭐️
Hostage situation turned found family! This was such a fun, easy, breezy read! It left me wanting, no needing more! I seriously cannot wait to see what happens in Merciless Heir! I truly loved the found family aspect of this novel, it was so heartwarming.
4.5/5 ⭐️
Hostage situation turned found family! This was such a fun, easy, breezy read! It left me wanting, no needing more! I seriously cannot wait to see what happens in Merciless Heir! I truly loved the found family aspect of this novel, it was so heartwarming.
June 6, 2026
This was a short, fast paced, shifter romance that was entertaining and kept me turning the pages.
Let me start by saying that I actually really enjoyed this book. I finished it quickly and I was engaged throughout the book. This book had a lot of potential and good storyline but there were some things that could have been improved upon.
Our FMC, Addie, is forced to marry the MMC (Vidor) after her brother gets caught with his hand in the proverbial cookie jar to the tune of 6 million dollars. To settle the debt they want a marriage between the packs.
I liked Addie. She was strong willed and knew what she wanted. What she wanted was to be appreciated and not a pawn in her father’s schemes. So marrying Vidor was definitely not on her bingo card, but anything to save her little brother. Her struggle growing up was real. Hearing about her abuse was sad and went a long way in seeing why she was the way she was.
However, there were a couple things i did not care for when it came to her. I thought there was some inconsistencies with her character but nothing so egregious that it didn’t keep me reading. She was this amazingly smart woman who got a full ride scholarship and basically carried this huge company on her back. Yet there were several times she made some spectacularly stupid decisions. I also have zero clue why she would expect Vidor to let her in on family business right away when she was clearly not trying to stay for the majority of the book. I’m also confused why she initially wanted that to happen since she was trying to leave lol. I would have understood it more if she was trying to get info to further her ability to get away or have leverage on them.
Vidor was enjoyable but frustrating lol. I liked the possessiveness he was showing but hated that he immediately tried to lock her away and take everything from her. He spent the entire book being this hard core self assured businessman (wolf) and trying to make sure his family stayed safe. However, when Addie needs saving he is no where in sight. It is his brother who saves her which i found odd because he is this uber control freak. Heck, he ran to go get her shortly after she snuck to see her human friend and retrieved her promptly! Also, in the end he did a complete character switch. He all of a sudden had no clue how to communicate and came across robotic. It was the oddest declaration of love that I have ever read. I did like that we began to see a softer side of him though.
The storyline had some great nuggets. I do feel like there was more telling rather than showing, even in parts that could have easily been shown. It just felt like it was less effort to write that something had transpired behind the scenes rather than describe it.
I really liked the Blackwood pack as a family. Their dynamic was loving and hilarious. They were honestly one of my favorite parts of the book. I especially liked the parents. I want to know more about the family and see more of all of them.
Let me start by saying that I actually really enjoyed this book. I finished it quickly and I was engaged throughout the book. This book had a lot of potential and good storyline but there were some things that could have been improved upon.
Our FMC, Addie, is forced to marry the MMC (Vidor) after her brother gets caught with his hand in the proverbial cookie jar to the tune of 6 million dollars. To settle the debt they want a marriage between the packs.
I liked Addie. She was strong willed and knew what she wanted. What she wanted was to be appreciated and not a pawn in her father’s schemes. So marrying Vidor was definitely not on her bingo card, but anything to save her little brother. Her struggle growing up was real. Hearing about her abuse was sad and went a long way in seeing why she was the way she was.
However, there were a couple things i did not care for when it came to her. I thought there was some inconsistencies with her character but nothing so egregious that it didn’t keep me reading. She was this amazingly smart woman who got a full ride scholarship and basically carried this huge company on her back. Yet there were several times she made some spectacularly stupid decisions. I also have zero clue why she would expect Vidor to let her in on family business right away when she was clearly not trying to stay for the majority of the book. I’m also confused why she initially wanted that to happen since she was trying to leave lol. I would have understood it more if she was trying to get info to further her ability to get away or have leverage on them.
Vidor was enjoyable but frustrating lol. I liked the possessiveness he was showing but hated that he immediately tried to lock her away and take everything from her. He spent the entire book being this hard core self assured businessman (wolf) and trying to make sure his family stayed safe. However, when Addie needs saving he is no where in sight. It is his brother who saves her which i found odd because he is this uber control freak. Heck, he ran to go get her shortly after she snuck to see her human friend and retrieved her promptly! Also, in the end he did a complete character switch. He all of a sudden had no clue how to communicate and came across robotic. It was the oddest declaration of love that I have ever read. I did like that we began to see a softer side of him though.
The storyline had some great nuggets. I do feel like there was more telling rather than showing, even in parts that could have easily been shown. It just felt like it was less effort to write that something had transpired behind the scenes rather than describe it.
I really liked the Blackwood pack as a family. Their dynamic was loving and hilarious. They were honestly one of my favorite parts of the book. I especially liked the parents. I want to know more about the family and see more of all of them.
June 9, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this paranormal shifter romance with a mafia twist by a new to me author that had me hooked from the very beginning. The well-crafted plot is gripping, full of pent-up emotions, action, suspense, danger, a few twists, and spice, and includes the following tropes:
- Arranged Marriage
- Enemies to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Found Family
- He Falls First
- Reformed Player
I really liked Addie and Vidar. He’s a dominant, powerful morally gray wolf-shifter with trust issues, and she’s a quick-witted, independent, tough-as-nails she-wolf who won’t submit to him or his orders. I loved their battles of wills, mind games, verbal sparring, and the palpable chemistry between them; but as much as I liked her sass, I didn’t find her behavior particularly trustworthy and could understand why Vidar didn’t want to confide in her.
I also found the rest of the Blackwoods very likable and am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Adolpha Vane, aka Addie O'Shea, a brilliant financial strategist, has spent the last decade building a new life far away from the Vane Den and her violent father, the leader of the pack.
When her younger brother Elias is caught swindling the Blackwood pack out of millions in an attempt to help his father’s struggling pack and his criminal organization, Addie is forced to choose between marrying Vidar Blackwood or watching her brother die. With a heavy heart, the freedom-loving Addie agrees to a marriage of convenience in which she must serve as a broodmare and social accessory.
Vidar Blackwood is proud of his pack and his role in the organization. When his parents insist that he marry Addie, he is skeptical, because after a betrayal years ago, he trusts only blood ties. The player usually prefers human women and doesn't have flings with his own kind. And the sassy she-wolf is a complication in his orderly life, but he agrees even though he can’t trust her. They’re drawn to each other, but Vidar, despite his distrust, can’t grant her the partnership she longs for, and Addie is unwilling to submit and struggles with her loyalties, and her lost career and freedom, even though she loves being part of the close-knit Blackwood pack and safe…
Perfect for readers who like gritty, emotionally charged shifter mafia romances packed with action, suspense, violence, danger and heat.
Thank you Ines Johnson and Grey Promotion for the ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
#DarkRomance #ParanormalRomance #EnemiestoLovers #HeFallsFirst #MorallyGray @greyspromo
- Arranged Marriage
- Enemies to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Found Family
- He Falls First
- Reformed Player
I really liked Addie and Vidar. He’s a dominant, powerful morally gray wolf-shifter with trust issues, and she’s a quick-witted, independent, tough-as-nails she-wolf who won’t submit to him or his orders. I loved their battles of wills, mind games, verbal sparring, and the palpable chemistry between them; but as much as I liked her sass, I didn’t find her behavior particularly trustworthy and could understand why Vidar didn’t want to confide in her.
I also found the rest of the Blackwoods very likable and am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Adolpha Vane, aka Addie O'Shea, a brilliant financial strategist, has spent the last decade building a new life far away from the Vane Den and her violent father, the leader of the pack.
When her younger brother Elias is caught swindling the Blackwood pack out of millions in an attempt to help his father’s struggling pack and his criminal organization, Addie is forced to choose between marrying Vidar Blackwood or watching her brother die. With a heavy heart, the freedom-loving Addie agrees to a marriage of convenience in which she must serve as a broodmare and social accessory.
Vidar Blackwood is proud of his pack and his role in the organization. When his parents insist that he marry Addie, he is skeptical, because after a betrayal years ago, he trusts only blood ties. The player usually prefers human women and doesn't have flings with his own kind. And the sassy she-wolf is a complication in his orderly life, but he agrees even though he can’t trust her. They’re drawn to each other, but Vidar, despite his distrust, can’t grant her the partnership she longs for, and Addie is unwilling to submit and struggles with her loyalties, and her lost career and freedom, even though she loves being part of the close-knit Blackwood pack and safe…
Perfect for readers who like gritty, emotionally charged shifter mafia romances packed with action, suspense, violence, danger and heat.
Thank you Ines Johnson and Grey Promotion for the ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
#DarkRomance #ParanormalRomance #EnemiestoLovers #HeFallsFirst #MorallyGray @greyspromo
June 2, 2026
ARC Read
If you're looking for a quick, entertaining read, look no further! This novella is short, fast-paced, and a little knotty—perfect for fans of wolf shifter romances.
This story combines mafia romance, forced marriage, and paranormal romance. Addie is forced to marry Vidar Blackwood after her brother incurs a massive debt to the powerful Blackwood family. As part of the arrangement, the Blackwoods take her brother under their wing to help guide the Vane Pack in a better direction, since he is its future heir.
Addie left home at eighteen to escape her father's abuse and the expectations of pack life. She worked hard to build a life on her own terms, so being forced into a marriage feels like stepping into another kind of cage. Vidar, on the other hand, is the ultimate grumpy Alpha—possessive, controlling, and convinced everything should go his way.
What I loved most was the dynamic between Addie and Vidar. They're both incredibly stubborn, and every time Vidar pushed, Addie pushed back even harder. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the slow-burn romance, longing, and tension between them kept me turning the pages. Watching them face challenge after challenge together made their relationship even more satisfying.
The standout for me, though, was the Blackwood family. Their loyalty, banter, discipline, and fierce protectiveness made them feel like a true family rather than just another wealthy and powerful pack. They brought so much heart to the story and were just as enjoyable to read about as the main couple.
Overall, this was a fun, addictive read filled with pack politics, family loyalty, romance, and plenty of tension. If you enjoy wolf shifter romances with a strong-willed heroine, a grumpy Alpha, and a compelling found-family dynamic, this one is worth picking up.
If you're looking for a quick, entertaining read, look no further! This novella is short, fast-paced, and a little knotty—perfect for fans of wolf shifter romances.
This story combines mafia romance, forced marriage, and paranormal romance. Addie is forced to marry Vidar Blackwood after her brother incurs a massive debt to the powerful Blackwood family. As part of the arrangement, the Blackwoods take her brother under their wing to help guide the Vane Pack in a better direction, since he is its future heir.
Addie left home at eighteen to escape her father's abuse and the expectations of pack life. She worked hard to build a life on her own terms, so being forced into a marriage feels like stepping into another kind of cage. Vidar, on the other hand, is the ultimate grumpy Alpha—possessive, controlling, and convinced everything should go his way.
What I loved most was the dynamic between Addie and Vidar. They're both incredibly stubborn, and every time Vidar pushed, Addie pushed back even harder. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the slow-burn romance, longing, and tension between them kept me turning the pages. Watching them face challenge after challenge together made their relationship even more satisfying.
The standout for me, though, was the Blackwood family. Their loyalty, banter, discipline, and fierce protectiveness made them feel like a true family rather than just another wealthy and powerful pack. They brought so much heart to the story and were just as enjoyable to read about as the main couple.
Overall, this was a fun, addictive read filled with pack politics, family loyalty, romance, and plenty of tension. If you enjoy wolf shifter romances with a strong-willed heroine, a grumpy Alpha, and a compelling found-family dynamic, this one is worth picking up.
June 2, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐🌙
A short, fun blend of wolf shifters, mafia power dynamics, forced marriage, a strong heroine, and slow-burn romance. 🐺🖤
Addie is strong, stubborn, and refuses to let anyone control her, while Vidar is the ultimate possessive, controlling grump Alpha who believes everything should go his way. They are forced into marriage after her brother steals from the Blackwoods, and the only repayment they will accept is his sister's hand in marriage.
Addie has built a successful life away from her abusive father and the shifter world, and being forced into a marriage is not something she can easily accept. She refuses to be caged, but her brother's life is at stake. As Vidar tries to control her every move, their constant clashes over what she should do and where she should be are filled with tension and longing until danger strikes, forcing them to acknowledge what has been simmering beneath the surface all along. Despite the obstacles and the threats against the Blackwood family, their relationship slowly develops into something neither of them expected...
The real highlight of this book was the Blackwood family. Their loyalty, banter, discipline, and fierce protectiveness made the pack feel like a true family rather than just another powerful and wealthy dynasty.
If you enjoy dark paranormal romance with fated mates, forced marriage, pack politics, family drama, found family and a protective Alpha hero, this is definitely worth picking up. I'm looking forward to seeing more of the Blackwoods in the next book. (ARC)
A short, fun blend of wolf shifters, mafia power dynamics, forced marriage, a strong heroine, and slow-burn romance. 🐺🖤
Addie is strong, stubborn, and refuses to let anyone control her, while Vidar is the ultimate possessive, controlling grump Alpha who believes everything should go his way. They are forced into marriage after her brother steals from the Blackwoods, and the only repayment they will accept is his sister's hand in marriage.
Addie has built a successful life away from her abusive father and the shifter world, and being forced into a marriage is not something she can easily accept. She refuses to be caged, but her brother's life is at stake. As Vidar tries to control her every move, their constant clashes over what she should do and where she should be are filled with tension and longing until danger strikes, forcing them to acknowledge what has been simmering beneath the surface all along. Despite the obstacles and the threats against the Blackwood family, their relationship slowly develops into something neither of them expected...
The real highlight of this book was the Blackwood family. Their loyalty, banter, discipline, and fierce protectiveness made the pack feel like a true family rather than just another powerful and wealthy dynasty.
If you enjoy dark paranormal romance with fated mates, forced marriage, pack politics, family drama, found family and a protective Alpha hero, this is definitely worth picking up. I'm looking forward to seeing more of the Blackwoods in the next book. (ARC)
June 4, 2026
This was such an easy read, and honestly, that was exactly what I was in the mood for. I've been on a bit of a shifter kick lately, so this one hit the spot.
Addie is the estranged daughter of the Vane Pack Alpha. After leaving home ten years ago, she built a successful career in the human corporate world and refused to let her family's expectations define her. She's intelligent, stubborn and determined to make her own choices.
Vidar is the second son of the Blackwood Alpha and runs the family's corporate empire. He's serious, possessive, loyal and every bit the Alpha you'd expect. When Addie's brother lands himself in trouble with the Blackwood Pack, the only way to keep him safe is for Addie to marry Vidar.
The chemistry between Addie and Vidar simmered from the very beginning. Their attraction built steadily throughout the story, and I loved the anticipation. Their constant push and pull was probably my favourite part of the romance. Addie refused to be controlled, while Vidar's overwhelming need to protect his wife constantly put them at odds. What I appreciated most was that they actually communicated. Problems weren't dragged out through unnecessary misunderstandings, which was a refreshing change.
The real standout for me, though, was the Blackwood family. Vidar's parents and brothers were fiercely loyal to one another, and their love and support felt genuine. Watching them welcome Addie and her brother into the family was heartwarming and highlighted just how much the Vane siblings had been missing all those years.
Addie is the estranged daughter of the Vane Pack Alpha. After leaving home ten years ago, she built a successful career in the human corporate world and refused to let her family's expectations define her. She's intelligent, stubborn and determined to make her own choices.
Vidar is the second son of the Blackwood Alpha and runs the family's corporate empire. He's serious, possessive, loyal and every bit the Alpha you'd expect. When Addie's brother lands himself in trouble with the Blackwood Pack, the only way to keep him safe is for Addie to marry Vidar.
The chemistry between Addie and Vidar simmered from the very beginning. Their attraction built steadily throughout the story, and I loved the anticipation. Their constant push and pull was probably my favourite part of the romance. Addie refused to be controlled, while Vidar's overwhelming need to protect his wife constantly put them at odds. What I appreciated most was that they actually communicated. Problems weren't dragged out through unnecessary misunderstandings, which was a refreshing change.
The real standout for me, though, was the Blackwood family. Vidar's parents and brothers were fiercely loyal to one another, and their love and support felt genuine. Watching them welcome Addie and her brother into the family was heartwarming and highlighted just how much the Vane siblings had been missing all those years.
June 5, 2026
Merciless Vow is the first book I have read by Ines Johnson, and I am now obsessed. I absolutely loved this book. I couldn’t put it down until I reached the end. I loved the anticipation of what would happen next, and being kept on my toes was the best part. This book is the best mash-up of Mafia and Shifter romance tropes. Plus, checking all the boxes in tropes I like was the icing on the cake. There is the arranged marriage, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, found family, he falls first and hard, touch her and be unalived. The storyline was original, page-turning, and intriguing. This book has drama, action, suspense, angst, and spice. I enjoyed every up and down and twist and turn. The characters were complex, had intriguing pasts, and their chemistry was off the charts. I loved how they were both strong and stubborn and refused to back down.
Addie was stubborn, independent, loyal to her friends, and a few family members. She was fierce, protective, and determined. She was a total BA. Vidar was dark, broody, and a little on the dangerous side. He was stubborn, determined, out for revenge, and loyal to his family. I enjoyed his growing obsession and possessiveness over Addie. Their journey through this book had them facing obstacles, growing closer, and building trust. I enjoyed the slow-burning romance between Addie and Vidar. They had my heart breaking and swooning. I laughed, got teary-eyed, and fist-pumped a few times while reading this book. I so can’t wait to see what comes next in this series!!! I need more!!!
Addie was stubborn, independent, loyal to her friends, and a few family members. She was fierce, protective, and determined. She was a total BA. Vidar was dark, broody, and a little on the dangerous side. He was stubborn, determined, out for revenge, and loyal to his family. I enjoyed his growing obsession and possessiveness over Addie. Their journey through this book had them facing obstacles, growing closer, and building trust. I enjoyed the slow-burning romance between Addie and Vidar. They had my heart breaking and swooning. I laughed, got teary-eyed, and fist-pumped a few times while reading this book. I so can’t wait to see what comes next in this series!!! I need more!!!
June 6, 2026
I really enjoyed this shifter romance by Ines Johnson. It was an easy read and I found myself speeding through it in a day and a half. I liked the way that the Blackwood family ran. How they helped and looked out of one another without hesitation, and that once you were married into their pack you also became part of that great family dynamic. Vidal and Addies relationship tested them in more ways than one and I enjoyed watching them outsmart eachother at every turn. There were only 2 things that stopped this from being a full 5☆ read for me.
1- I didnt like how Vidar went from treating Addie like a glorified prostitute, to instantly being in love and obsessed with her within 24 hours. It just didnt feel like it progressed in a natural way. It felt way too rushed.
2- I wish there was more spice. I dont need spice on every page or anything, but more than 2 scenes would've been great. I felt like when Addie amd Vidar finally reached the point where they actually admitted that they had feelings for eachother that the book just ended. With the way that the book ended it makes you think that their relationship wont be explored anymore in book 2, so that was a tad disappointing. It just left me wanting more and knowing that I most likely wouldn't get it.
Overall this was a great book. I want to also say thank you to Inez Johnson for sending me a signed and personalized physical copy because that was totally unexpected and completely made my day. It is now sitting proudly, front and center, as a prized book trophy!
1- I didnt like how Vidar went from treating Addie like a glorified prostitute, to instantly being in love and obsessed with her within 24 hours. It just didnt feel like it progressed in a natural way. It felt way too rushed.
2- I wish there was more spice. I dont need spice on every page or anything, but more than 2 scenes would've been great. I felt like when Addie amd Vidar finally reached the point where they actually admitted that they had feelings for eachother that the book just ended. With the way that the book ended it makes you think that their relationship wont be explored anymore in book 2, so that was a tad disappointing. It just left me wanting more and knowing that I most likely wouldn't get it.
Overall this was a great book. I want to also say thank you to Inez Johnson for sending me a signed and personalized physical copy because that was totally unexpected and completely made my day. It is now sitting proudly, front and center, as a prized book trophy!
June 7, 2026
Addie is a corporate shark. She is smart, ambitious, and elusive. She wants nothing to do with her father or his failing dynasty. The only thing she left behind that she still cares about is her brother.
Vidar embodies the dark, dangerous, and ruthless role as if he were born for it. He has no tolerance for betrayal. So when another family steals money from him, he decides to teach them a lesson they will never forget.
Addie’s brother only wanted enough money for them to start over. But when he gets caught, it’s Addie who must pay the price by giving her life over to Vidar as his wife and providing the heirs he needs.
Addie soon learns that Vidar isn’t everything she believed him to be. He is fiercely loyal to his family, who mean everything to him. Something she is unfamiliar with after growing up under her father’s cruel and vindictive thumb.
But can she dare to believe that he’s different from men like her father, who only seek to control her and beat her into submission? Or is Vidar the one man with whom she can finally find happiness?
I absolutely loved this book! It was the first Ines book for me and I enjoyed it and her writing style so much! I immediately downloaded another book series by her as soon as I finished this one. Merciless Vow gave me butterflies and had me so drawn into the characters that I couldn’t put it down. I’m anxiously waiting the next book on this series and can’t wait to see happens next!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Butterflies: 🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
#mafiaromance #romantasy #morrallygrey #mine #spicyromance
Vidar embodies the dark, dangerous, and ruthless role as if he were born for it. He has no tolerance for betrayal. So when another family steals money from him, he decides to teach them a lesson they will never forget.
Addie’s brother only wanted enough money for them to start over. But when he gets caught, it’s Addie who must pay the price by giving her life over to Vidar as his wife and providing the heirs he needs.
Addie soon learns that Vidar isn’t everything she believed him to be. He is fiercely loyal to his family, who mean everything to him. Something she is unfamiliar with after growing up under her father’s cruel and vindictive thumb.
But can she dare to believe that he’s different from men like her father, who only seek to control her and beat her into submission? Or is Vidar the one man with whom she can finally find happiness?
I absolutely loved this book! It was the first Ines book for me and I enjoyed it and her writing style so much! I immediately downloaded another book series by her as soon as I finished this one. Merciless Vow gave me butterflies and had me so drawn into the characters that I couldn’t put it down. I’m anxiously waiting the next book on this series and can’t wait to see happens next!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Butterflies: 🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
#mafiaromance #romantasy #morrallygrey #mine #spicyromance
June 10, 2026
Addie Vane has her path set. She is a Junior Associate and moving up the chain. With Nell and her advancing Sterling and Assoc, they are moving strong. When Addie gets a call from her father to come home, she isn’t thrilled about it. But worse is that her baby brother is in trouble and she is the bargaining chip. Vidar Blackwood controls the Blackwood Holdings along with his brothers Gunnar and Magnus. When Vidar finds a discrepancy in the books, they find the culprit, Elias Vane. When Vidar is told that the daughter will be the debt, he has no problem fulfilling his obligation. But seeing Addie heats his blood. She will bend to him. Addie will save her brother but she isn’t about to be dismissed.
OMG, this is good. At first, you think that Vidar is a cold heart alpha that cares nothing but himself. Let’s face it, he took everything that Addie build for herself. I can see why she was so angry. Being told that you are just to be a broodmare and do nothing was insulting. Addie kept her armor up. She knew nothing about kindness from a family. The Blackwood’s are not what she expected. I do love the introduction to the brothers. Nice touch. Mei-Ling is a loving mother and Fenrir is a father that is open-hearted. Now was I shocked about them keeping Elias, yep. I honestly didn’t realize his place in the Blackwood world. Addie is all for doing what’s right and protected her bestie Nell. But thing is ever simple. She still is a target. As these two thaw to each other, feelings come full force. I am LOVING this series. I can’t wait for Magnus and Nell’s story.
OMG, this is good. At first, you think that Vidar is a cold heart alpha that cares nothing but himself. Let’s face it, he took everything that Addie build for herself. I can see why she was so angry. Being told that you are just to be a broodmare and do nothing was insulting. Addie kept her armor up. She knew nothing about kindness from a family. The Blackwood’s are not what she expected. I do love the introduction to the brothers. Nice touch. Mei-Ling is a loving mother and Fenrir is a father that is open-hearted. Now was I shocked about them keeping Elias, yep. I honestly didn’t realize his place in the Blackwood world. Addie is all for doing what’s right and protected her bestie Nell. But thing is ever simple. She still is a target. As these two thaw to each other, feelings come full force. I am LOVING this series. I can’t wait for Magnus and Nell’s story.
June 15, 2026
A delicious tangle of loyalty, betrayal, whit and smarts.
Vidar trusts no one but family. He has no issue taking the responsibility of his family and pack, even when it comes to an arranged marriage with their rival pack. What he thinks will be a challenge to break Adie and a game of cat and mouse makes him question what he thought he knew.
Adie has spent 10 years hiding her nature, her name and her heritage. She is human. A razor sharp corporate mind that refuses to fall into a man's world.
When she is forced to marry exactly the type of man she spends every day defeating. One cage turns into another.
This book was a slow burn but of sophisticated minds. They are both brilliantly smart and trying to protect each other and their families. What will it take until they realise that their brilliance together can be a team that can take down anything.
I really enjoyed the intelligence with these characters, they were both top of their corporate world and while that was respected on both sides, they both struggled with the normal human aspect of relationships and trust.
This was a fast paced read of acceptance, brilliance and sometimes gut instinct being all you need to finally have a partnership you never thought was possible.
What a teaser for the next book too! Magnus was a character that caught my interest immediately so looking forward to reading what trouble he gets in to next.
I was very fortunate to receive this book as an arc but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you for this opportunity.
Vidar trusts no one but family. He has no issue taking the responsibility of his family and pack, even when it comes to an arranged marriage with their rival pack. What he thinks will be a challenge to break Adie and a game of cat and mouse makes him question what he thought he knew.
Adie has spent 10 years hiding her nature, her name and her heritage. She is human. A razor sharp corporate mind that refuses to fall into a man's world.
When she is forced to marry exactly the type of man she spends every day defeating. One cage turns into another.
This book was a slow burn but of sophisticated minds. They are both brilliantly smart and trying to protect each other and their families. What will it take until they realise that their brilliance together can be a team that can take down anything.
I really enjoyed the intelligence with these characters, they were both top of their corporate world and while that was respected on both sides, they both struggled with the normal human aspect of relationships and trust.
This was a fast paced read of acceptance, brilliance and sometimes gut instinct being all you need to finally have a partnership you never thought was possible.
What a teaser for the next book too! Magnus was a character that caught my interest immediately so looking forward to reading what trouble he gets in to next.
I was very fortunate to receive this book as an arc but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you for this opportunity.
July 1, 2026
Oohhhh was this a meeting of two powerhouses and was I here for it 😍
🤎🐺Addie left her pack years ago in search of a place for herself where she could carve her own future, not the submissive path her father wanted. Called back to the pack when her brother is adult-napped, she’s forced to take part in pack politics once again but this time, things are different.
🖤🐺Vidar is the second in command, & 2nd son of the Blackwoods, arguably the strongest pack around. When his numbers are flawed and not by his choice, he seeks retribution. His father makes an exchange and Vidar willingly accepts, not realizing what he got himself into.
From the beginning Addie is a strong willed, strong minded, independent woman. I love that she tried to maintain her boundaries and her sense of self throughout the novel, not just fall into the demure position of “trophy wife” once Vidar took her as his wife. I also loved the pack values of the Blackwoods-everyone is family, born in, married in, fought with. I love how the brothers kept referring to Addie as sister, the parents kept calling her their daughter, and when Addie was hurt it was “your sister has been hurt,” type of scenarios. Fenrir definitely was a good Alpha to be in a pack with and definitely instilled values into his children. I wish we could’ve had more of Addie & Vidar but I absolutely feel like this book ended clean-open ended but we can all assume how the rest of their story went. I’m excited to hear about the rest of the Blackwood Pack🖤🐺
🤎🐺Addie left her pack years ago in search of a place for herself where she could carve her own future, not the submissive path her father wanted. Called back to the pack when her brother is adult-napped, she’s forced to take part in pack politics once again but this time, things are different.
🖤🐺Vidar is the second in command, & 2nd son of the Blackwoods, arguably the strongest pack around. When his numbers are flawed and not by his choice, he seeks retribution. His father makes an exchange and Vidar willingly accepts, not realizing what he got himself into.
From the beginning Addie is a strong willed, strong minded, independent woman. I love that she tried to maintain her boundaries and her sense of self throughout the novel, not just fall into the demure position of “trophy wife” once Vidar took her as his wife. I also loved the pack values of the Blackwoods-everyone is family, born in, married in, fought with. I love how the brothers kept referring to Addie as sister, the parents kept calling her their daughter, and when Addie was hurt it was “your sister has been hurt,” type of scenarios. Fenrir definitely was a good Alpha to be in a pack with and definitely instilled values into his children. I wish we could’ve had more of Addie & Vidar but I absolutely feel like this book ended clean-open ended but we can all assume how the rest of their story went. I’m excited to hear about the rest of the Blackwood Pack🖤🐺
June 5, 2026
Merciless vows was such a good story to read. It's a slow burn romance about wolf shifters living in a mafia world. It's the first book in the series and i think it's going to be one of my favourites so far with Addie O'Shea who finds he sell in what she thinks is a bad situation to help save her brother. They'll be challenges along the way but I loved how Addie was this strong independent person who wasn't afraid to stand up to what she thought was right. She has this brilliant mind that could match any Alpha. So when she finds out she has to pack her life up she's devastated. She'll meets Vidar Blackwood who's handom smart and has an eye for business. He's cold, calculated and only interested in making his family happy untill he lands eyes her. There's instant connection and he'll find her scent overwhelming and we'll start seeing a different side of him that I just loved. There's amazing characters throughout and i loved Vidar Blackwood family with his little brother who was such a sweet kid, Nell just as feisty as Addie and such a Good friend There's drama, suspence and definitely some danger thrown into the mix. The spice was a little slow for me and I would have liked to see more of them towards the end but it had a great ending with heart felt moments between Addie and Vidar which I loved and a glimpse of Marcus as he decides what to do with Nell which has me hooked and waiting to see what will happen next with Merciless heir.
June 7, 2026
I love Ines Johnson's books and this one is right up there. Addie, our FMC, left her pack 10 years ago with nothing and worked her way up to kicking ass in the boardroom. She is strong, tenacious, independent, extremely intelligent, and does not want to be forced into be subservient to an alpha again (daddy dearest is an abusive alphahole) unfortunately her brother is a dumbass and she gets pawned off as a bride. Vidar, our MMC, is ruthless, cold, stubborn, absolutely family first (screw everyone else), oh and due to a betrayal is untrusting of anyone and everyone. So of course when they meet he doesn't trust her or his own body's response to her scent and is rather a complete jerk to her. He pulls her out of her entire life, removing her independence, then the idiot is surprised when she tried to escape him at nearly every turn. The amount of times I wanted to smack him upside the head, I lost count. Thankfully Momma & Papa Blackwood are there to help the pair. This may seem like a negative review, its not, its showing how Vidar is real not one of the perfect book boyfriends. He goes through some real character development. The chemistry is there between the two from the beginning is just takes a bit for them to both be on the same page. While there is an external big bad there is a second big bad in the stubbornness and mistrust. Can't wait for the second book for big brother.
June 9, 2026
Holy moly! Talk about an absolutely emersive book, I finished this in a blink! Ines truly has brought this world to life, and I am SO here for it! Our story begins with Addie, a top financial and computer wiz, who's working her way up the corporate latter. Until the day she receives a call, and her past has come back to bite her in the butt. (Possible pun intended 😉)
Addie has been through it, her childhood was one of pure and absolute abuse at the hands of her father, which is why she booked it, and has been living in the human world. Cut off from anything wolf, trying to separate the 2 in a way that hurts them both. But that call? It stops her in her tracks , because now she has to go back to the life she ran from, otherwise the one and only person she has, is gone. Her brother.
In steps Vidar, our shmexy, Mafia-man alphahole. His father's second in command. Now I'm not one for spoilers, but to save her brother Addie is put into an arranged marriage, and boy howdy does she give him a run for his money.
This fantastic whirlwind of a book shows you 2 sides to a coin, one of love and family and one of the power hungry. If you're into strong women who take no crap, who are smart and aren't afraid to show it, you're going to love this book! Not to mention, who doesn't love a bit of spice that adds a slowish burn, which will have you clawing for the next page! So, long story short? Download this one, you won't regret it!
Addie has been through it, her childhood was one of pure and absolute abuse at the hands of her father, which is why she booked it, and has been living in the human world. Cut off from anything wolf, trying to separate the 2 in a way that hurts them both. But that call? It stops her in her tracks , because now she has to go back to the life she ran from, otherwise the one and only person she has, is gone. Her brother.
In steps Vidar, our shmexy, Mafia-man alphahole. His father's second in command. Now I'm not one for spoilers, but to save her brother Addie is put into an arranged marriage, and boy howdy does she give him a run for his money.
This fantastic whirlwind of a book shows you 2 sides to a coin, one of love and family and one of the power hungry. If you're into strong women who take no crap, who are smart and aren't afraid to show it, you're going to love this book! Not to mention, who doesn't love a bit of spice that adds a slowish burn, which will have you clawing for the next page! So, long story short? Download this one, you won't regret it!
June 8, 2026
This is a standalone dark paranormal that blends mafia power dynamics with a wolf shifter world.
This story throws readers straight into a world of pack politics, family loyalty, and a forced marriage that neither protagonist truly wants—but that's exactly where the fun begins. The chemistry between Addie and Vidar crackles from their very first interaction, and watching these two stubborn personalities clash is one of the book's biggest strengths.
Addie isn't a heroine who simply accepts her fate. She's intelligent, determined, and more than capable of standing her ground, even when faced with an alpha who is used to getting his own way. I got a little annoyed with her constant demands to be let in on family business while at the same time plotting to escape.
Vidar is the ultimate dark, brooding, and possessive grump. I really enjoyed his growing obsession with Addie and his struggle to figure out how to actually make her happy. Their chemistry between them is incredibly intense.
I enjoyed getting to know the Blackwood pack. Their loyalty, discipline, and sibling banter was in complete contrast with Addie’s toxic background.
I'm looking forward to the next book and the next brother.
💜 Mafia shifter romance
💜 Arranged marriage / Forced proximity
💜 Found family & pack politics
💜 Touch her and die
This story throws readers straight into a world of pack politics, family loyalty, and a forced marriage that neither protagonist truly wants—but that's exactly where the fun begins. The chemistry between Addie and Vidar crackles from their very first interaction, and watching these two stubborn personalities clash is one of the book's biggest strengths.
Addie isn't a heroine who simply accepts her fate. She's intelligent, determined, and more than capable of standing her ground, even when faced with an alpha who is used to getting his own way. I got a little annoyed with her constant demands to be let in on family business while at the same time plotting to escape.
Vidar is the ultimate dark, brooding, and possessive grump. I really enjoyed his growing obsession with Addie and his struggle to figure out how to actually make her happy. Their chemistry between them is incredibly intense.
I enjoyed getting to know the Blackwood pack. Their loyalty, discipline, and sibling banter was in complete contrast with Addie’s toxic background.
I'm looking forward to the next book and the next brother.
💜 Mafia shifter romance
💜 Arranged marriage / Forced proximity
💜 Found family & pack politics
💜 Touch her and die
June 2, 2026
Review:
🖤Merciless Vow🖤
By Ines Johnson
🖤 Wolf Shifter Romance
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Mafia Romance
⭐ 4/5
Addie and Vidar
This romance follows Addie and Vidar. It is a paranormal, wolf shifter romance which is a fast paced story for fans of dark and shifter romances with emotionally damaged male characters who would give anything to their woman in the end.
Forced together by her brother’s wrong doing, Addie has no choice but to marry Vidar.
For Addie an absolute terrible scenario. She left her own family at a young age and built a life for herself, when forced to marry an emotionally unattainable man feels like going back to a caged life.
But both characters are difficult, stubborn and love to push each other's buttons. And underneath all that is a chemistry so strong it steams when they are together.
They have a lot of obstacles and challenges to get through and overcome. And while being in love with Addie, Vidar can’t seem to find the words. But the way he showed her was sweet in its own way.
And Addie knows him so well that she will claim him as hers nevertheless.
With a loyal, entertaining and protective family at their back, it seems they can face it all.
🖤Merciless Vow🖤
By Ines Johnson
🖤 Wolf Shifter Romance
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Mafia Romance
⭐ 4/5
Addie and Vidar
This romance follows Addie and Vidar. It is a paranormal, wolf shifter romance which is a fast paced story for fans of dark and shifter romances with emotionally damaged male characters who would give anything to their woman in the end.
Forced together by her brother’s wrong doing, Addie has no choice but to marry Vidar.
For Addie an absolute terrible scenario. She left her own family at a young age and built a life for herself, when forced to marry an emotionally unattainable man feels like going back to a caged life.
But both characters are difficult, stubborn and love to push each other's buttons. And underneath all that is a chemistry so strong it steams when they are together.
They have a lot of obstacles and challenges to get through and overcome. And while being in love with Addie, Vidar can’t seem to find the words. But the way he showed her was sweet in its own way.
And Addie knows him so well that she will claim him as hers nevertheless.
With a loyal, entertaining and protective family at their back, it seems they can face it all.
June 3, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Merciless Vows by Ines Johnson is a fast-paced paranormal romance that blends wolf shifters, mafia intrigue, forced marriage, and fated mates into an entertaining and addictive read. I thoroughly enjoyed it!!
When Addie is forced into a marriage with powerful Alpha Vidar Blackwood to settle her brother’s debt, she finds herself pulled back into a world she left behind years ago. Addie is strong-willed and determined to maintain her independence, while Vidar is possessive, controlling, and used to getting his way. Their constant clashes create plenty of tension, making their slow-burn romance impossible to put down.
The Blackwood family’s loyalty, protectiveness, and strong family dynamic added so much depth to the story and made the pack feel authentic and compelling. I was taken in.
If you enjoy wolf shifters, forced marriage, fated mates, pack politics, found family, and morally gray alpha heroes, Merciless Vows is definitely worth picking up. I’m excited to see where the Blackwood series goes next.
This was my first experience with Ines Johnson and her worlds and it will not be my last ! Thank you to Ines Johnson for the opportunity to read her ARC. All opinions are my own.
Merciless Vows by Ines Johnson is a fast-paced paranormal romance that blends wolf shifters, mafia intrigue, forced marriage, and fated mates into an entertaining and addictive read. I thoroughly enjoyed it!!
When Addie is forced into a marriage with powerful Alpha Vidar Blackwood to settle her brother’s debt, she finds herself pulled back into a world she left behind years ago. Addie is strong-willed and determined to maintain her independence, while Vidar is possessive, controlling, and used to getting his way. Their constant clashes create plenty of tension, making their slow-burn romance impossible to put down.
The Blackwood family’s loyalty, protectiveness, and strong family dynamic added so much depth to the story and made the pack feel authentic and compelling. I was taken in.
If you enjoy wolf shifters, forced marriage, fated mates, pack politics, found family, and morally gray alpha heroes, Merciless Vows is definitely worth picking up. I’m excited to see where the Blackwood series goes next.
This was my first experience with Ines Johnson and her worlds and it will not be my last ! Thank you to Ines Johnson for the opportunity to read her ARC. All opinions are my own.
June 4, 2026
ARC Read Thank you to the author and Book funnel
Merciless Vow by Ines Johnson.
*Arranged Marriage
*Found Family
*Shifters
*Enemies to lovers
*He Falls first
*Alpha Male
*Mafia romance
*Morally Gray
*Forced Proximity
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Fist time reader of Ines Johnson, So wasn't sure what to expect.
It took me a little to get into but after the first three chapters I started to want more after Addie Vanes little brother steals six million dollars from the most powerful werewolf family in New York city.
You think this is just another werewolf story about enemies to lovers you are wrong, there is so much emotions between each character in some parts your on the edge of your seat wondering whats going to happen next.
Addie Vane has worked hard in her human form for it all to be taken away from her because of a transaction to make up for what her little brother did.
You will love Vidar ( maybe not at the start) and the others Magnus,Gunnar, Ivar
Vidar hadn't brought a wife home. He'd transferred his new asset to a high - security Vault...
You cant get enough of the Blackwood Family and what they believe in and have been though. Blood is blood, family is everything you can mess with things BUT NOT THE BLACKWOOD FAMILY...
Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶 Auction 🔪🔪🔪
Merciless Vow by Ines Johnson.
*Arranged Marriage
*Found Family
*Shifters
*Enemies to lovers
*He Falls first
*Alpha Male
*Mafia romance
*Morally Gray
*Forced Proximity
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Fist time reader of Ines Johnson, So wasn't sure what to expect.
It took me a little to get into but after the first three chapters I started to want more after Addie Vanes little brother steals six million dollars from the most powerful werewolf family in New York city.
You think this is just another werewolf story about enemies to lovers you are wrong, there is so much emotions between each character in some parts your on the edge of your seat wondering whats going to happen next.
Addie Vane has worked hard in her human form for it all to be taken away from her because of a transaction to make up for what her little brother did.
You will love Vidar ( maybe not at the start) and the others Magnus,Gunnar, Ivar
Vidar hadn't brought a wife home. He'd transferred his new asset to a high - security Vault...
You cant get enough of the Blackwood Family and what they believe in and have been though. Blood is blood, family is everything you can mess with things BUT NOT THE BLACKWOOD FAMILY...
Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶 Auction 🔪🔪🔪
June 11, 2026
This book had me from the start. I'm already a fan of dark mafia paranormal romances so I knew Merciless Vow wouldn't disappoint and it didn't.
It has the mafia politics, slow burn between the FMC Addie and MMC Vidar, banter (which I love) and even a HEA.
Addie feels the need to save her brother Elias. Nell ( Addie's best friend that's human) thinks Addie is basically crazy for her choices ( she doesn't know anything about wolves and some of her statements made me laugh ). Addie is stubborn, strong and refuses to take orders from anyone.
Vidar is the Alpha wolf that even though he has trust issues, becomes very protective of Addie.
"You're not crazy son, your mom had you tested" had me laugh loudly when I read that as well as "Everytime she moaned I heard the phantom sound of a thermal seal breaking in a warehouse that should have been locked tight." These were just TWO of the many statements that had me laughing.
You will NOT be disappointed in this book if you enjoy paranormal, mafia, strong FMC, slow burn, arranged marriage with a possessive MMC type of read.
Thank you to Greys Promotion and the author Ines Johnson for an advance copy. This is an honest and voluntary review.
It has the mafia politics, slow burn between the FMC Addie and MMC Vidar, banter (which I love) and even a HEA.
Addie feels the need to save her brother Elias. Nell ( Addie's best friend that's human) thinks Addie is basically crazy for her choices ( she doesn't know anything about wolves and some of her statements made me laugh ). Addie is stubborn, strong and refuses to take orders from anyone.
Vidar is the Alpha wolf that even though he has trust issues, becomes very protective of Addie.
"You're not crazy son, your mom had you tested" had me laugh loudly when I read that as well as "Everytime she moaned I heard the phantom sound of a thermal seal breaking in a warehouse that should have been locked tight." These were just TWO of the many statements that had me laughing.
You will NOT be disappointed in this book if you enjoy paranormal, mafia, strong FMC, slow burn, arranged marriage with a possessive MMC type of read.
Thank you to Greys Promotion and the author Ines Johnson for an advance copy. This is an honest and voluntary review.
June 1, 2026
I received an ARC of this book; all opinions are my own.
4 ⭐️
3 🌶
If you are looking for a Mafia style, dual POV, werewolf romance, look no further. This is book 1 in the Merciless Alphas series, each book is a standalone. We have our FMC, Addie, who left her pack at eighteen. Her brother steals six million dollars from a powerful werewolf family in New York, then Addie gets pulled back when our MMC, Vidar offers a trade: for Addie's hand in marriage or her brother's life. Vidar is everything she never wanted.
I love how strong willed Addie is throughout the book even with everything that gets thrown at her in this story.
Both Addie and Vidar are strong willed and stubborn which help fuel the slow burn tension that was rising.. a lot of issues occurred that could have been avoided but I ate up this tension and it kept me turning pages. I absolutely loved when that build up finally came to an end… It was pretty knotty… Iykyk
If you are looking for a fast paced, weekend read (only 384 pages) then this one is for you!
4 ⭐️
3 🌶
If you are looking for a Mafia style, dual POV, werewolf romance, look no further. This is book 1 in the Merciless Alphas series, each book is a standalone. We have our FMC, Addie, who left her pack at eighteen. Her brother steals six million dollars from a powerful werewolf family in New York, then Addie gets pulled back when our MMC, Vidar offers a trade: for Addie's hand in marriage or her brother's life. Vidar is everything she never wanted.
I love how strong willed Addie is throughout the book even with everything that gets thrown at her in this story.
Both Addie and Vidar are strong willed and stubborn which help fuel the slow burn tension that was rising.. a lot of issues occurred that could have been avoided but I ate up this tension and it kept me turning pages. I absolutely loved when that build up finally came to an end… It was pretty knotty… Iykyk
If you are looking for a fast paced, weekend read (only 384 pages) then this one is for you!
June 4, 2026
Man, where do I even begin?
To start, I’m honestly not a huge reader of alpha wolf romances, but this book completely changed my mind. I absolutely loved it from beginning to end!
What I enjoyed most was that it didn’t focus solely on the wolf aspect. While the story definitely highlighted the importance of family, loyalty, and pack dynamics, it felt like so much more than just a typical wolf romance. In fact, it gave me major mafia romance vibes, which I loved. There was still plenty of wolf lore woven throughout the story, but it fit so naturally into the plot and never felt overdone.
The FMC was such a strong and accomplished woman who had already survived the impossible before being thrown into an arranged marriage with a smoking-hot billionaire wolf. Their story was captivating, emotional, and impossible to put down.
I loved every minute of reading this book and would absolutely recommend giving it a chance, especially if you’re someone who usually isn’t into wolf romances. This one might just change your mind too!
To start, I’m honestly not a huge reader of alpha wolf romances, but this book completely changed my mind. I absolutely loved it from beginning to end!
What I enjoyed most was that it didn’t focus solely on the wolf aspect. While the story definitely highlighted the importance of family, loyalty, and pack dynamics, it felt like so much more than just a typical wolf romance. In fact, it gave me major mafia romance vibes, which I loved. There was still plenty of wolf lore woven throughout the story, but it fit so naturally into the plot and never felt overdone.
The FMC was such a strong and accomplished woman who had already survived the impossible before being thrown into an arranged marriage with a smoking-hot billionaire wolf. Their story was captivating, emotional, and impossible to put down.
I loved every minute of reading this book and would absolutely recommend giving it a chance, especially if you’re someone who usually isn’t into wolf romances. This one might just change your mind too!
June 6, 2026
This is my first book from Ines and I truly enjoyed it. I don't get the chance to read alot of mafia wolf shifter books so when I do come across one, I will read it.
Addie and Vidar's story is a great start to this series. They were forced to get married to keep the peace between 2 clans. Addie objects to it because she loves her freedom but Vidar agreed due to obligations. To save her brother's life, Addie didnt have a choice but have to go through with this marriage.
What I really like about this book is how awkward Vidar is to showing "affection" when it comes to love because he dont do love but he's great with spreadsheets and running an empire. I love that he's willing to learn and won't give up on trying. Addie is such a strong FMC. She's smart, witty, and super protective of her love ones and will do whatever to save them.
I also love the dual POV. The spice was also spicing. The story flow so well that I want more of their story by the time this book was done. I can't want to more about Nell and Magnus's story next.
Addie and Vidar's story is a great start to this series. They were forced to get married to keep the peace between 2 clans. Addie objects to it because she loves her freedom but Vidar agreed due to obligations. To save her brother's life, Addie didnt have a choice but have to go through with this marriage.
What I really like about this book is how awkward Vidar is to showing "affection" when it comes to love because he dont do love but he's great with spreadsheets and running an empire. I love that he's willing to learn and won't give up on trying. Addie is such a strong FMC. She's smart, witty, and super protective of her love ones and will do whatever to save them.
I also love the dual POV. The spice was also spicing. The story flow so well that I want more of their story by the time this book was done. I can't want to more about Nell and Magnus's story next.
June 8, 2026
It's been a while since I read a wolf shifter romance and this book made me realise how much I've missed it.
Addie turned her back on her pack when she left home at 18 leaving her abusive alpha father firmly in her past. Clawing her way up the corporate ladder she has worked hard for what she has and where she has got. Only one phone call is about to destroy everything. Her younger brother, the only person in the Vane pack that she has any care for has made a serious mistake and only Addie can save him. By entering into an arranged marriage!
I wasn't too sure how I felt about the Blackwood pack at first. But the more I read the more I liked them. I really liked the family dynamics and how they were in private. Vidar Blackwood is the son told that he has to marry Addie and accepts it without question. But that doesn't mean she feels the same way. I loved the way that she didn't just meekly obey him, she is a fiesty character but apparently is just what he needs. It leads nicely into a second book involving the oldest brother and it can't come too soon for me!
Addie turned her back on her pack when she left home at 18 leaving her abusive alpha father firmly in her past. Clawing her way up the corporate ladder she has worked hard for what she has and where she has got. Only one phone call is about to destroy everything. Her younger brother, the only person in the Vane pack that she has any care for has made a serious mistake and only Addie can save him. By entering into an arranged marriage!
I wasn't too sure how I felt about the Blackwood pack at first. But the more I read the more I liked them. I really liked the family dynamics and how they were in private. Vidar Blackwood is the son told that he has to marry Addie and accepts it without question. But that doesn't mean she feels the same way. I loved the way that she didn't just meekly obey him, she is a fiesty character but apparently is just what he needs. It leads nicely into a second book involving the oldest brother and it can't come too soon for me!
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